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BIN<

MEMORIALS {f^^r?

WESLEYAN UIONUS & MUSTERS.

IfHO HAVE DIED WITHIN THE BOUNDS OF THE

CONFERENCE OF EASTERN BRITISH AMERICA,

>":h:

SINCE THE INTRODUCTION Or KETHODTSM INTO THESE COLONIES.

BY THE

-HI

REV. G. O. HUESTia

(Member of the Confereace.)

HALIFAX, N. S.,

WILLIAM MACNAB, PRINCE STREET.

: 1872.

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PREFACE.

For some years past I have thought that brief
memorials of our early Missionaries and their suc-
cessors, who have been called to the spirit-world
from our midst, might prove a blessing to our
Church,— especially to youthful ministers.

Modern Methodism is largely indebted to the
rich treasures of her early biographies. The obitu-
ary list, at home and abroad, for more than a cen-
tury ,^ — fragrant with sacred memorials of multitudes,
both lay and ministerial, — is one of the best proofs
of the fact that Methodism is a special work of God
for the promotion of holiness in the earth.

The remembrance of the holy lives of the happy
dead, more numerous than the sainted living, is a
constant source of encouragement to the people of
God. As a branch of the Church of Christ, we have
ever had cause to rejoice in three things : conver-
sions, holy lives, and happy deaths.

For the benefit of the living, I would place upon

I'll

t'F

PREFACE.

record a brief outKne of the Christian graces and
faithful services of those men of God into whose
labors we have entered ; assured that to many,
especially to aged ones, the remembrance of their
names will be most refreshing. v

"Written memorials of those devoted preachers are
in the possession of but few of our people, because
of the very limited circulation of our official records*
Our yearly Minutes of Conference and weekly
paper should be found in all our fan^ilies.

Perhaps some will be disappointed in not finding
in these sketches the names of many truly excellent
preachers, who once labored in these Provinces, but
have died elsewhere. To inti-oduce all these would
be but to enlarge this volume to an undue size. I
doubt not but there are some among us who will
never forget, with or \vithout written memorials,
suph men as the amiable and sainted John Shaw,
the faithful and devoted R. H. Crane, the eminently
successful William Burt, the eloquent R. Cooney,
and the model preacher and pastor, Robert Young.

Personal acquaintance with at least twenty-seven
of the brethren included in this volume enables me

PREFACE. V

to speak with confidence respecting their ministerial
ability and excellence. As regards the others, I
have endeavored to obtain reliable information. To
a complete set of the large reports of the Wesleyan
Missionary Society, and to our official records, I
have been much indebted for dates and outlines of
character.

I trust that these biographical sketches will lead
to the preparation of a complete histoiy of the rise,
progress, and present position of Methodism in the
Maritime Provinces. Praying that the blessing of
God may accompany this well-meant effort, I send it
forth to perform its silent mission among a people
who generally know how to appreciate their relig-
ious privileges.

G. 0. H.

NAMES OF DECEASED MINISTERS.

tered

Name.

1818

Avard, Adam Clarke.

1854

Averv, Bamuel
Bamford, Btephen
Bennett, WUlIain

180«

1800

1786

Black, William

1828

browncll, John B.

1812

Busbv, liJampHon
Chesley, Robert A.

1848

1810

Croscombe, William

1822

DesbriBay, Albert

1870

Duttoii, William

1808

Ellis, William

1861

Gaetz, Thomas

1853

Gaskin, Charles

1856

Holland, Henry

1814

Home, James

1816

Knight, iiichard

1806

Kuowlan, James

1786

Mann, John

1786

Mann, James

1818

Marshall, John

1838

Marshall, William

1861

Martin, Samuel

1829

McDonald, William

1793

McColl, Duncan

1853

McKinnon, William

1836

McMasters, SamuelJ

1828

McNutt, Arthur

1811

Millar, George

1825

Murray, William

1858

Bhenstone, W. S.

1834

Sleep, Peter
Smithson, William

1827

1825

Smith, William

1819

Snowball, John

1813

Strong, John B.

1857

Sutcliffe, Joseph
Turner, Alfred W.

1860

1827

Webb, William

1836

Wheelock, Jesse

1813

Williams, Richard

1820

Wilbon, William

1866

Winterbotham, John

March 15, 1821.
October 13, 1861.
August 14, 1848.
November 6, 1867.
September 8, 1834.
March 27, 1864.
March 31, 1850.
November 27, 1856.
August 26, 1859.
May 24, 1867.

September 21, 1837.
October 24, 1860.
March 10, 1861.
December 24, 1861.
July 10, 1856.
May 23, 1860.
March 17, 1845.
February 26, 1817.
December 25, 1820.
July 12, 1864.
January 9, 1846.
October 28, 1871.
March 16, 1834.
December 17, 1830.
March 26, 1862.
October 6, 1842.
May 12, 1864.
July 14, 1869.
January 16, 1840.
August 31, 1861.
August 8, 1842.
May 15, 1866
February 21, 1863.
September 13, 1871.
May 16, 1870.
September 30, 1887.
February 27, 1871.
July 4, 1847.
May 18,1841.
August 1, 1856.
September 26, 1869.
March 21, 1871.

1 V
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[76

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40,

241

69!

42 14

a ts

MEMORIALS.

7
41

I w
48
37
37
13
49
34

REV. ADAM CLARK AVARD.

The parents of A. C. Avard emigrated to P. E.
Island from the Island of Guernsey in 1806, Adam
being then about six years of age. They were
Methodists of the olden type. Mr. Avard was a
Local Preacher, highly respected and beloved for
his many Christian excellencies. He lived to a good
old age, full of love to God and true zeal for Meth-
odism, which he always regarded as the special
work of God, and died at last, as only the Christian
can die, in the triumph of faith.

His son commenced the study of law at Char-
lottetown, and was progressing in a most pleasing
manner in those studies, to which he was strongly
inclined, and for which his talents seemed eminently
adapted. But before the term of study had expired,
an event took place which completely changed his
course of life, and worldly anticipations. The cir-

MEMORIAT^ OF

!'i

cumstances were these. A. young man, one of his
most intimate associates, Albert Desbrisay, son of
the Rector of the Parish, became deeply convinced
of sin, and was earnestly seeking the favor of God ;
while in this state of mind, he withdrew from the
fellowship of the not immoral, but unconverted and
worldly-minded, law student. This judicious and
decided action of the penitent seeker of mercy led
his former companion to reflect seriously on his own
condition before God. In a short time he, as well
as his friend, was found laboring under pungent
convictions of sin. Both young men were led to
Christ by the faithful ministry of the Rev. John
Hick, — one to realize a short, the other a long,
career of ministerial usefulness.

For a short period after his conversion, Avard
continued to pursue his legal studies. But power-
ful convictions of duty in reference to a more im-
portant calling induced him to renounce all for
Jesus, and to become what was then regarded as not
the most dignified style of man — a Methodist
preacher. A year had scarcely elapsed before he
delivered his first sermon from the words, " Suffer
me to speak," Job xxi 3. Before two years had
expired, he was a candidate for the regular ministry.
For a part of a year he taught school in Murray
Harbor, boarding in tho house with the Rev. Samp-

WRST,EYAN MISSIONARIES.

his

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led
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son Busby, whose very efficient ministry Christian
sympathy and wise counsels were greatly ulessed to
the youthful teacher and preacher. With the usual
credentials, he appeared before the l^istrict Meeting
held that year at Halifax, — was accepted, and ap-
pointed to the Newport Circuit. Many souls were
given him as his hii-e on that Circuit, most of whom^
like himself, have gone home to the spirit land.
The next year we find him attending and taking
part in the first and most remarkable protracted
meeting ever held in this Province, — "The great
meeting in Wilmot," which lasted several days, and
resulted in bringing many to God. A sermon
preached by Avard from the text, " I have a mes-
sage from God unto thee," was attended with un-
usual influence and power. The preachers present
on that occasion were Messrs. Bennett, Ansl^y
(Baptist), Priestly, Busby, Alder, Avard, and
Millar.

For a short time Mr. Avard labored at Shelburne,
and in the midst of the most interesting intimations
of coming prosperity, he was removed (unwisely it
was thought by many at the timej, to supply a va-
cancy in New Brunswick. He came to Freder-
icton in 18f^0, and during that year was appointed
by the British Conference to commence a mission at
Labrador, among the Esquimaux. But death inter-

lil

IKf

MEMORIAI^ OF

vened. In the midst of extensive usefulness, he
fiickened, and died on the 15th March, 1821. A
marble slab with an appropriate inscription marks
his earthb'' resting place in the cemetery at Fred-
ericton. But a nobler record is on high.

He was eminent for almost every excellence
desirable in a Christian minister. Humble, yet
dignified ; zealous but cautious ; social yet serious .
blending beautifully the wisdom of the serpent with
the harmlessness of the dove. Evangelical in doc-
trine, earnest in manner, with a pleasing styJ'i; and
most benignant countenance, we are not surprised
that he was very popular and useful. Many pleas-
ing reminiscences, too numerous and lengthy to be
inserted in this memorial, were brought before the
attention of the writer, in 1866, by the father of our
present book-steward, T. Pickard, Esq., at whose
house the sainted Avard resided during his minis-
terial sojourn in Fredericton.

** I know thou hast gone where thy forehead is starred

With the beauty that dwelt in thy soul,
Where the light of thy loveliness cannot be marred,

Nor the heart be flung back from its goal.
I know thou hast drunk of the Lethe that flows

Through a land where they do j»ot forget.
That sheds over memory only repose.

And takes from it only regret."

WESLEYAN M18SI0NAK1ES.

REV. SAMUEL AVERY.

Samuel Avery was a native of Lower Horton,
Nova Scotia. Trained up by God-fearing parents,
he was religiously inclined from his youth ; yet he
felt in early life the necessity of a divine change in
order to serve God with acceptance on earth, as well
as to fit him for heavenly society hereafter. Living
in the midst of evangelical influences, he was led
gradually first to Jesus, then to the fold of Metho-
dism. For some time he hesitated to enter the ranks
of the ministry, fearing that he should run before
he was sent. After much deliberate thought, prayer,
and consultation with christian Ministers, he was
led to conclude that his ^ rovidential path lay in that
direction. To equip himself for the arduous work,
he deUyed not to seek the literary advantages of the
Sackville Institution. There he grew in grace as
well as in wisdom, because his studies were all sanc-
tified by devotion and prayer. He applied himself
diligently, and succeeded admirably. But his com-
mendable ambition was somewhat checked by evi-
dent indications that the physical constitution was
less robust than the mental. He entered upon his

4^1

MEMORIALS OF

ministerial duties with great devoutness of spirit,
tenderness of conscience, ancf holy resolves to be
useful in the vineyard. Nor did he live and toil in
vain. His pulpit efforts indicated much thought,
clear views of biblical truth, and an ardent desire to
produce immediate results. His natural amiability,
sanctified by grace, rendered him popular and useful
in his pastoral work among the people of his charge.
Holiness to the Lord was his motto. Natural, ac-
quired, and spiritual energies were all expended
without regret, in extending the influences of the
gospel. While a lover of truth and piety wherever
he beheld them, he was ardently' attached to the
chTirch of his choice, regarding her as eminently
adapted to promote the glory of God, and the best
interests of man.

During the four years and a-half of his active
ministry, his labors were expended chiefly on the
Wilmot and Shelburne Ciicuits. In 1861 failing
health induced him to seek a supernumerary relation.
Shortly after the conference of 1861 he was the
subject of an alarming hemorrhage of the lungs,
attended with great pain, and agonizing suffering.
Yet he bore all with meek acquiescence to the Divine
will. His confidence in God remained unshaken
during his protracted illness. A short time before
his departure, the Lord manifested himself to him in

WE3LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

a glorious and triumphant manner. He exclaimed,
" Is this death ? I have had a view of the promised
land, — I am going home — going home to die no
more, Hallelujah ! Praise the Lord." Thus passed
away to the Paradise of God, on the 13th October,
1861, in the twenty-ninth year of his age, and sev-
enth of his ministry, the sainted Avery of precious
memory.

♦♦ The saints that seem to die, in earth's rude strife,
Only win double life ;
They have but left our weary ways,
To live in memory here, in Heaven by love and praise."

REV. STEPHEN BAMFORD.

Stephen Bamfoed was born near Nottingham,
England, in the year 1770. When quite a youth,
he enlisted in the Twenty-Ninth Regiment of Foot.
In 1793 we find him with the Duke of York in
Holland, where there was much fighting. Sometime
after this he was in a naval engagement, and subse-
quently in the West Indies at the taking of some of

MEMORIALS OF

III I

the Islands. It was wliile in one of these Islands
that he came very near losing his life by his brav-
ery— rather rashness. In the midst of a skirmish, a
soldier threw down his musket. Mr. Bamford im-
mediately took it up and fired at the enemy, and was
shot in the breast in return. The ball, strange to
say, passed through his body without taking his
life. He was accustomed in after life often to refer
to the kind providence of God in preserving his life
when hr was utterly unprepared to die.

In 1798 h.e assisted in quelling the great rebellion
in Ireland. The regiment with which he was con-
nected was very successful in saving the lives of
many Protestants, and repulsing the cruel rebel
leaders. In 1799 he married a very excellent
woman, who proved to be an help-meet indeed. He
was passionately fond of music, and having some
acquaintance with the art, he soon after joining him-
self to the army obtained a position in the Band, —
the duties of which he discharged with great accept-
ance and efficiency during his whole military career.
While in Ireland he was arrested by Divine truth
while listening to a sermon delivered by a Metho-
dist preacher. With a broken heart, he earnestly
sought Him who alone can " bind up the broken-
hearted.^' Nor did he seek in vain. The conscious
pardon was granted, making his soul very happy.

Jif'

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

He soon began to tell others of the dear Saviour he
had found. Thus constrained by the love of Christ,
he soon found his way into the local preacher's
ranks. Iii 1S02 the Twenty-Ninth Regiment was
stationed at Devonport (formerly Plymouth Eock),
where he enjoyed the intimate fiiendship of the
eminently holy and eloquent Rev. Samuel Bradbum,
who greatly encouraged him in his evangelistic
efforts, in the army and elsewhere.

It was while in this place that a little boy named
Burt was Jed by his father to hear the soldier
preach, and not to hear in vain. That boy became
the holy and useful Rev William Burt, of precious
memory in these Provinces, where he often had
pleasing interviews with Mr. Bamford. The friend-
ship between these two servants of God was like
that of David and Jonathan, undying in its nature.

About the year 1804, Mr. Bamford came with
the regiment to Halifax, where he continued his
zealous labours as a local preacher. It was a novel,
yet interesting sight, to the worshippers in the Ar-
gyle Street Chapel, to see a man in uniform preach-
ing the glorious Gospel. To the spiritually-minded
at Halifax, it appeared very eviJent that this soldier,
full of holy zeal, original thought and pleasing

utterance, was designed by the Head of the Church
for the full work of the ministry. Accordingly,

ill

*»:

MEMOllTAI-S OF

arrangements were quickly made by which he was
honorably discharged from his military engagements
In the usual way he sought and obtained admission
to the ranks of the ministry, and entered upon the
duties of his first circuit in 1806. For twenty-
eight years he travelled and preached with great
success on many of the most important circuits in
the Maritime Provinces. Halifax, St. John (twice)v
Charlottetown, Windsor, Horton, Liverpool, Cum-
berland, Remsheg (since called Wallace), and An-
napolis, enjoyed the benefit of his early and success-
ful ministry. His last circuit was Windsor. Having
obtained leave of the Missionary Committee in Lon-
don, he returned to England, and attended the t'on.
ference held in Birmingham in 1836. After visiting |
his native place, and finding that the acquaintances
of early life had passed away, he felt that his adopted
country, where he had so many seals to his ministry^
was more like home than even dear old England.
He returned, and, becoming supernumerary, settled
for a time among his attached friends at St. John,
N, B. Subsequently he removed, and fixed his
permanent residence in the beautiful, quiet little
town of Digby. Here he rendered very efiicient aid
to the cause of Methodism, Avhich was small in those
days. By his public labors, as long as he could
possibly work, and by the pleasing exhibition of

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

l*i!

private virtues, he endeared himself greatly to the
people of God. During the united District Meeting
at Sackville in 1847, the writer had the first and
only interview with this man of God. He referred
with emotions of pleasure to the scenes of his early
ipinisterial labors on what is now called the Wallace
Circuit, and seemed delighted to recognize in the
true succession the grandson of one of his most
devoted helpers on that circuit. His remarkable
prayer at that District Meeting will never be forgot-
ten by those who heard it. It was original, quaint,
earnest, touching, and sublimely simple. He died
as he had lived — happy in the I^ord — on the 14th
August, 1848, in the 77th year of his age and the
41st of his ministry.

As a preacher he excelled. There was about his
, sermons and addresses an unusual degree of origin-
ality, raciness, sweetness and unction. Very few of
his hearers could remain unmoved under his pathetic
and intelligent appeals, and still fewer enjoy a
refreshing half hour in gentle slumber. If ever
humor was sanctified and employed in the further-
ance of the Gospel, it was in the ministry of this
Brother. If sometimes, in the eccentric play of his
luxuriant imagination, there seemed to be too near
an approach to the ridiculous, his naturalness^ sym-
pathy, earnestness and holy fervor dissipated the

MEMOKIALS OF

gathering idea. Occasionally a smile irradiated
every face in the congregation, but more frequently
penitential tears bedewed the cheeks. His sermons
were his own as fully as it is possible for man's dis-
courses to be such. No man can preach entirely
original sermons, even though he endeavors to prac-
tice total abstinence in reference to plagiarism*
Many pulpit orations of this age have been moulded
and fashioned by nobler brains than those possess
who preach them But no preacher among us has
ever attempted to copy Brother Bamford's style.
His preaching was unique in ingenuity of thought,
aptness in illustration and religious quaintness. On
one occasion, while preaching on the original trans-
gression, when referring to the excuse of Adam in
laying the blame on Eve, he intimated that Adam
was a great coward ; and with apparent indignation
declared, *' Had it been my case, I would not have
blamed my Jane." (his wife.) On a marriage occa-
sion, while offering prayer on behalf of the newly
affianced couple, he intimated that probably causes
of anger would arise during the journey of life to-
gether, and therefore besought the Hearer of prayer
that they might never both get angry at the same time,

" Placid and calm on Jt'tius' breast reclining,
In swift transition to the realms of bliss,
Among God's stars of ^lory ever shining,
Thev "'^" nj'^i I.. " ; "

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

•if

REV. WIJ.LIAM BENNETT. .

William Bennett was born in England in 1770.
After becoming a partaker of saving grace, impelled
by a conviction that he was called to preach the
everlasting Gospel, he offered himself to the Mis-
sionary committee, and was sent out as a Missionary
to Nova Scotia in 1800. There were at that time
in the whole of British North America only three
Wesleyan Methodist preachers besides himself. It
was indeed the day of small things. Yet God was
with the little band of workers, and gave them large
success. Mr. Bennett began his ministerial work
with great ardor and simplicity, and for twenty years
travelled and preached almost incessantly. The
sparse settlements of Cumberland county, with its
almost impassable roads, where Methodism origi-
nated in the Province, witnessed some of his earliest
energetic efforts In the forests of Hants — the
valley of Annapolis — along the rocky southern shore
— in the Province of New Brunswick, and in our
rising towns, he carefully watched over the little
flocks that had been gathered into the fold under the
ministry of Mr. Black, John and James Mann. —

■'.V

MEMORIALS OF

Multitudes were also brought to God, and formed
into societies by his faithful ministry. The magni-
tude of the labors of this and other veterans of that
period would appall maay refined, dyspeptic evan-
gelists of our day.

Mr. Bennett was an eminently trustworthy min-
ister of Christ, a lover of good men, — strongly
attached to his brethren, and to the interests of
Methodism. He was entrusted for some years with
the general oversight of the work of God in the
Lower Colonies. The official duties thus involved
were faithfully discharged to the best of his ability.

Becoming a supernumerary, in consequence of
failing health, in 1820, he still continued to mani-
fest a deep interest in the cause of God ; preaching
frequently for some years in Newport, and after-
wards as chaplain of the Provincial Penitentiaiy at
Halifax. He was deeply devoted to God — hence
remarkable for power or unction in prayer. Many
of these outpourings of heart are still remembered
with gratitude to God. We gladly record the fact,
for the benefit of modern preachers, that in his days
of activity and strength, his success in winning souls
to Christ was owing quite as much to his pas .>ral
eflfbrts, as to his pulpit utterances. We have in this
our day preachers in abundance, whose sermons are
equal, yea superior, as regards variety of truths

i-iiK'

WESLEY AN MISSIONARIES.

rmed

[agni-

that

jvan-

logical argument, and earnest appeals, to those of
the early Methodist ministers, but I fear they sur-
passed us in the wayside and fireside admonition, and
solemn entreaty. Let us repent and do the first
works. Mr. Bennett was a great sufferer in his last
days ; but he patiently endured the trial, assured that
all things work together for good to them that love
God.

Two days before his death, consciousness returned
after a long absence. He was thus enabled to give
to the superintendent of the Halifax circuit a most
delightful assurance of his faith and hope in God.
He passed away from loved ones to the better
country, on Friday, Nov. 6, 1858, in the 88th year
of his age, and 57th of his ministry.

" How blest the righteous when he dies 1

When sinks a weary soul to rest.
How mildly beam the closing eyes ;

How gently heaves the expiring breath I
So fades a summer cloud away ;
» So sinks the gale when storms are o'er,

So gently shuts the eye of day ;

So dies a wave along the shore.**

' I

MEMORIAI^ OF

REV. WM. BLACK.

William Black was born in Huddersfield, Eng-
land, in 1760. In his fourteenth year he emigrated
with his parents to Nova Scotia, and settled at Am-
herst, in the County of Cumberland. He was
awakened and converted to God in 1779, in connec-
tion with pr.iyer meetiugs conducted by a few
Methodists recently from England. He soon after
began to be very useful in exercising his gifts in
prayer and exhortation. Remarkable influences of
grace attended the services in which he engaged
until it became evident that God had called him to
the work of an evangelist. He began his labors in
the immediate neighborhood of his adopted home,
and thence gradually extended them to various lo-
calities throughout the Province of Nova Scotia. In
every place where sinners were converted, he
adopted Mr. Wesley's plan of establishing class
meetings, thus organizing Methodism on its proper
basis.

In M ly, 1783, for the first time, he visited Wind-
sor, and during the same month preached in Corn-
wallis where he visited a sick woman, who thought

. II

WE8LKYAN MISUIONAUIKS.

she had a great stock of good deeds to build upon.
He says, " I endeavored to convince her of the
necessity of a new birth, but all in vain ; I offered to
pray with her, but she refused." Returning to
Windiior, he tarried a short time at Falmouth, where
he met some of the converts of the eccentric Henry
Allen, called Newlights. Mr. Allen for some time
had been travelling through the Province proclaim-
ing with energy and marvellous success the neces-
sity and importance of experimental religion. Many,
doubtless, were converted to God through his in-
strumentality. But in many cases, Antinomian
errors becoming mingled with Gospel truth, the
work he effected was greatly marred.

In June Mr. Black reached Halifax, and deliv-
ered the Gospel message to a small congregation,
some of whom, he observes, " seemed to care for
none of those things." Before he left the place, a
few were awakened, and two backsliders reclaimed.
Some of the meetings were greatly disturbed by
the rage and violence of persecutors. In a few
weeks after we find him at Annapolis, Horton, and
again at Cornwallis, preaching amid thrilling scenes
of God's saving power. At Cornwallis he says,
" we held our first watch-night at Nathaniel Smith's.
Such a meeting as this I never saw before, except
at Amherst. O, what a noise and shaking among the
dry bones."

■tl

MEMORIALS OF

During the next year (1783) he visited Lunen-
burg, Liverpool, and Shelburne, the Lord giving
him seals to his ministry in every place. In Shel-
burne he narrowly escaped death. " While preach-
ing, a man from the skirts of the congregation thiew
a stone with great violence, but as I saw it come, I
saved my head, and it just passed by my temples."
" An apparent gentleman also greatly disturbed the
meeting by cursing and swearing, and threatening
vengeance on the preacher." He speaks of a great
revival at Birch town, near Shelburne, among the
colored people. " Upwards of sixty profess to have
found the pearl of great price, within six or eight
months ; and what is farther remarkable, the chief
instrument whom God hath employed in this work
is a poor negro, who can neither see, walk, nor stand."
Most of those people, about eight years after this
revival, were sent by the British Government to
Sierre Leone in Africa. And thus Methodism was
introduced into that benighted region, where a large
harvest of souls has already been realized.

Tn October he made his first visit to Chai'lotte-
i v^n, P. E. L, but did not see much to encourage
him. The people, he observes, " appeared stupid
and senseless as stones, altogether ignorant of the
nature of true religion." A wonderful change for
the better has taken place since.

WESLEY AN MISSIONARIES.

In September 1784 he visited the United States
in order to obtain preachers to assist in carrying on
the work of God so auspiciously commenced in the
Provinces. Met Dr. Coke and Mr. Asbury in
December. Attended the conference, and two men,
Garrettson and Cromwell, were appointed to Nova
Scotia. At Boston he tarried for nearly three months,
preaching incessantly, and not without encouraging
results; thus. establishing Methodism in that city
before any other Methodist preacher had preached
there. Returning to the Provinces he continued
travelling, preaching, and forming societies in various
directions.

In 1791, he visited Newfoundland. It was a
providential visit. For twenty-five years the Island
had enjoyed the ministrations of a few Methodist
preachers. But the cause had not greatly prospered.
Serious thoughts of abandoning the mission were
now entertained by the Missionary who had charge
of the whole Island. But a glorious revival com-
menced during Mr. Black's first sermon, which re-
sulted in the conversion of hundreds, and gave a
new impetus to the cause there, which has been felt
ever since.

Shortly after this, Mr. Black was appointed, by
Dr. Coke, superintendent of the flourishing missions
in the West Indies. But he could not be spared

>' 'i

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MEMORIALS OF

i;'iii I.

from the work in Nova Scotia. Once only he visited
the West Indies. In 1812 his name appears among
the supei'numeraries, yet still he travelled and
preached as his health permitted, for many years.
His labors were, however, chiefly expended at Hali-
fax, where the cause greatly prospered. His course
on earth terminated in 1834. When the Rev. R.
Knight, who attended him in his last moments, on
one occasion referred to his long and useful life, he
said very impressively, " Leave all that : say no
more,, all is well ; all is peace, no fear, no doubt.*'
His last words were " give my firewall blessing to
your family, and to the society ; and God bless you.
All is well."

Mr. Knight, in speaking • of the ministerial cha-
racter of Mr. Black, observes, " He was well ac-
quainted with human nature ; possessed a longing
desire for the salvation of souls ; was faithful, aflfec-
tionate, and assiduous. In short, he had all those
qualifications which never fail to make a minister
respected, beloved, and useful."

The Minutes of the British Conference for 1835
thus speak of him, " To the work of the ministry
he brought a constitution of more than ordinary
strength ; a sound, discriminating judgment ; an
earnest desire for useful knowledge ; an enlightened
zeal for the glory of God, and a fixed purpose of
mind to seek and save the souls of men."

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

To the Kev. Wm. Black more than to any other
man is Nova Scotia indebted for its Methodism. He
was evidently a special man for a special purpose.
His sermons were always fragrant with evangelical
odors of truth, delivered in a very familiar, j'et
impressive manner ; and what is most important,
accompanied with such an amount of heavenly in-
fluence, as to arrest, not only the attention, but to
convince the judgment, and move the heart. No
record is given of the number of souls converted
through his instrumentality during the fifty years of
his ministry. It was doubtless very large. To this
day we sometimes meet with aged persons, in various
branches of the church, who willingly testify that
they were awakened and brought to God through
his preaching. The influences of Methodism for
good are not bounded by its own denominational
lines. To God be all the glory.

'^ Death cannot claim the immortal mind:
Let earth close o'er its sacred trust,
Yet goodness dies not in the dust."

■^nf ■

'ii

MEMORIAIiJ OF

REV. JOHN R BROWNELL.

While stationed in the city of Fredericton in 1864,
some phases of ministerial life, character, and influ-
ence came before the mind of the writer, producing^
impressions, convictions, and high moral resolves of
a most salutary character, — a supernumerary minis-
ter in the furnace of affliction, testing in agony and
death the truths he had long preached. Six months
of almost uninterrupted physical anguish is a sore
trial for humanity. Yet during the whole period
the sufferer was divinely enabled to acquiesce in the
will of God. Not a murmuring word escaped his
lips. Though the fire burned fiercely the gold was
not consumed. The refiner of silver purified this
son of Levi, until the image of the Master shone
distinctly in the servant. In those hallowed inter-
views with this afflicted, yet happy brother in
Christ, we often felt that

The fountain of joy is fed by tears,
And love is lit by the breath of sighs ;

The deepest grief and the wildest fears
Haue holiest ministries."

John B» Brownell, son of the Rev. John Brown-
ell, an English missionary, was born in St. Kitts

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

We^t Indies, October 29th, 1802. Converted in
his fourteenth year, while attending the Eangswood
School, he had thoughts of the ministry from that
time. He did not, however, enter the work until
the year 1826. He labored five years in the West
Indies, then in the Island of Malta, where he was
very useful. Afterwards, in Canada, the Bermudas,
and in these Provinces, he faithfully discharged the
important duties of a Wesleyan minister, until the
year 1861, when he reluctantly became a supernu-
merary. Three years from that period had scarcely
elapsed, when, after the severe affliction alluded to,
he was called, on Easter morning, March 27, 1864,
in the thirty-seventh year of his ministry, " from a
suffering church beneath to a reigning chur(^
above."

His attainments in scholarship, and general quali-
fications for the sacred office, were highly respect-
able. His piety was intelligent, mellow, and de-
cided. In unfaihng attention to private prayer,
devotioaal reading of the Scriptures, the discharge
of social and official duties, and in sacredly devoting
to religious and charitable objects one-tenth of his
income, he was conscientious and faithful. He was
a superior preacher, diligent pastor, and good ser»
monizer. A score of his manuscript sermons, now
in possession of the writer, indicate very careful

MEMORIALS OF

preparation, logical thinking, singleness of aim,^and
an extensive acquaintance with the Word of God.
The execution of these manuscripts as regards style,
penmanship, orthography, and punctuation, are truly
models of excellence rarely to be seen. A few cop-
ies of these model sermons will be cheerfully dis-
pensed, on application, to those brethren, lay and
clerical, whose chirography, grammatical delinquen-
cies, and other literaiy deficiencies, infringe seriously
upon the precious time of our Editor.

Mr. Brownell, like the rest of his brethren, was
not free from various infirmities, but no valuable end
would be answered by an attempt to exhibit these.
The pen of inspiration alone is safe in recording the
errors of saints.

" We live in deeds, not years — in thoughts, not breaths —
In feelings, not in figures on a dial ;
We should count tim« by heart-throbs. He nio»t lives
Who thinks most, feels the noblest, ads the best."

I ■ )■

REV. SAMPSON BUSBY.

Many persons in Newfoundland, and in these
Provinces, remember with grateful emotions, though
many years have elapsed since his removal from
earth, the name and character of the Rev. S. Busby.
He was bom in Rainton, Yorkshire, England, on

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

the 16th February, 1790. His parents were mem-
bers of the Established Church, and carefully trained
their children in the forms and principles of that
communion. Early in life these parental instruc-
tions were productive of many serious impressions,
which, however, did not result in conversion in the
case of Sampson, but evidently prepared his mind
for clearer views of evangelical truth, which were
brought before his attention by the preaching of
Methodist ministers. He saw his lost condition as a
sinner, and soon found peace with God, through
faith in the Lord Jesus. Under the promptings of
the new nature, he soon began to exercise his gifts
and graces as a prayer leader, exhorter, and local
preacher.

After reception into the regular work, in the usual
manner, he was employed for a few months in the
Luton circuit. Having offered himself as a Mis-
sionary, he went up to London, and was ordained in
1812 by that eminent man of .God, Dr. Coke. He
began his labors in Newfoundland in 1813, where
he remained four years. Large success attended his
ministry in that Island. P. E. Island also enjoyed
his efficient services for a short time. But the
greater portion of his ministerial life (29 years) was
spent in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. He was
eminently useful in the Provinces. Many of our Cir-

tit

MEMORIALS OF

III:

ill II

cuits to this day retain in their membership the seals
of his ministry. A commanding form, pleasing ad-
dress, affable manner, good preaching ability, un-
flinching integrity, and devout spirit rendered him a
general favorite. By a personal interview, when
he was stationed at Point De Bute, the writer be-
came favorably impressed with the Christian virtues
and Methodistic amiability of Mr. Busby.

In his last moments he was graciously sustained
and comforted by the felt presence of Jesus, and the
conscious enjoyment of " perfect love," which
" casteth out fear." He passed from " things
temporal," to " things eternal," on Easter Sunday,
March 81, 1850, in the 61st year of his age, and
the 38th of his ministry.

** Simple, grave, sincere;
In doctrine uncorrupt; in language plain.
And plain in manner; decent, solemn, chaste,
And natural in gesture ; mucU impressed
Himself, as conscious of his awful charge.
And anxious mainly that the flock he feeds
May feel it too ; affectionate in look,
And tender in address, as well becomes
A messenger of grace to guilty man."

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

les

Led
Ithc
jich
jngs

lay,
land

REV. ROBERT A. CHESLEY.

Robert A. Chesley was a native of Granville,
Nova Scotia. He was born in the .year 1816, and
born again in 1839. Like all truly converted per-
sons, he cherished an ardent desire for the salvation
of sinners, and, in obedience to the Divine impulse,
sought in every possible way to bring them to God.
But in addition to this legitimate Christian feeling,
he became impressed with the conviction that it was
his duty to devote himself wholly to the work of the
ministry. This conviction of soul became more in-
tense and clear, as he advanced in the Divine life,
and endeavored to use, in such exercises as Meth-
odism affords to laymen, the grace already be-
stowed. A real call to the ministry is ascertained,
not so much by waiting as by working in the vine-
yard. The Lord drew him and he followed on until
he occupied the sacred desk. Here, his efforts at
first were not very promising, but his profiting
soon appeared to all. He loved the work, and after
a time excelled in it. Physically and mentally
robust and energetic, he engaged in the duties of the
holy calling with uncommon ardor. His piety was

MEMORIALS OF

li!:

.1' I '

■:l :

of the most devoted, ardent, and symmetrical type.
This, in connection with diligent study, careful ob-
servation, and extensive reading, rendered him an
able minister of the New Testament. In his ser-
mons he always gave great prominence to the cardi-
nal doctrines of the gospel. And while the univer-
sal atonement was, in his estimation, the central
truth of Christianity, he failed not to exhibit those
clusters of Christian graces which flow from it, and
form, in each believer, the earthly portion of the
glory that follows the sufferings of the God-man. —
He loved the institutions of Methodism, and actively
endeavored to maintain them in all their efficiency.
Especially did he labor to circulate her well ar-
ranged hterature. Many useful books were thus
scattered through the circuits on which he toiled.
As a writer, and defender of evangelical principles,
and scriptural practices, his occasional articles in the
Wesleyan eihibited mental power, raciness, and
argument indicative of a superior mind. But the
constant preaching, pastoral duties, and frequent re-
movals of Methodist ministers are not favorable to
the cultivation of literary talent. Nor is it neces-
sary in all cases. The most literary in general are
not visibly the most useful. The best written com-
position, when read or recited, fails to produce upon

WESLEYAN M18810NAK1ES.

hearers generally the same effect accomplished by
the living orator when delivering similar truths in
sentences less beautifully arranged. As preachers,
we have more to do in preaching than in writing
the Gospel, or in inging it, though that may often
be an effective way of presenting it. Our hymns
well sung prove this.

Mr. Chesley spent most of his ministerial life in
New Brunswick. His last circuit, however, was
St. John's, Newfoundland. He entered upon the
duties of that important charge with enlarged expec-
tations, and holy ambition to be as useful as possible ;
and during the few months that he spent there, he
not only won the esteem and affection of multitudes,
but was very successful in accomplishing the objects
of the ministry.

In consequence of excessive toil and exposure, he
took cold, and fever following, he was soon pros-
trated. But in the midst of affliction's waves, he
was divinely upheld. His mind was kept in peace.
He was not afraid of Jordan's sullen stream. One
week of suffering, and life's joys and conflicts on
earth were ended. This event took place Novem-
ber S7th, 1856. Great sorrow was manifested in
St. John's when the tidings were circulated that
the talented, amiable, and useful R. A. Chesley was

MEMORIAI^ OF

no more. Sympathy, both mental and material, was
shown to his widow and family by the affectionate
people among whom he died.

** When life's last pulses wane,

Jesus be noar;
My sinking heart sustain ;

Banish my fear.
To Thee my hands shall cling,

Of Thee my lips shall sing ;
My soul in glory bring

Nearer to Thee."

,"l li

HI 'I

REV. WILLIAM CROSCOMBE.

William Croscombe was born at Tiverton, Eng-
land^ in 178 <, four years before the death of the
Rev. John Wesley. In his twentieth year, having
experienced religion, he yielded speedily to his
convictions of duty, and began to call sinners to
repentance. Accepted as a minister in 1810, and
afterwards sent forth as a missionary, he arrived in
Nova Scotia in the month of April, 1812. After
seven years of very arduous and successful toil in
this country, he returned and labored two years in
England. 1 hence he went to Gibraltar, where he

• I

WESLBYAN MISSIONAHIBS.

spent three years. Again he crossed the Athuitic,
and came to Newfoundland. Next we find him in
Hahfax, and subsequently in Canada and New
Brunswick, filling with great acceptance, fidelity,
and efficiency the pulpits of our most important
circuits.

Most of his time, however, including eight years
of supernumerary life, were spent in Nova Scotia.
He was emphatically an active disciple of the indus-
trious Jesus. Fervent in spirit, earnest in manner,
always devoted to his proper work, incessant travel-
ling and preaching seemed his delight ; doubtless
because he made his "duty his delight." The
records of District books testify that the average
number of sermons delivered by him weekly ^ as
not exceeded by any of his brethren. The writer
has often heard the response to the question on this
subject from the lips of our departed brother,
" Five to six times." Hear it, ye modern
workers, who think three times a week very ex-
hausting ! How few of us can perform the work
of our fathers in the ministry !

Exceedingly attached to his brethren, he loved
their society, and ever sought to make ministerial
interviews seasons of spiritual profit. Eminently
holy, he was eminently successful in winning souls
to Jesus. No man could be long in his society

MEMORIALS OF

"''|i

lit |lll.

I!li

' III! I

iifHii

• !iii

without perceiving that he was a man of one business,
completely engrossed with the great work. The
total abstinence reform shared largely in his sympa-
thic 5 and labors, regarding it as he did as one of the
instrumentalities of Christianity to save the world
from the curse of intemperance. The writer, pre-
vious to his connection with the order of " Sons of
Temperance," consulted Father Croscombe on the
subject, and, being advised thereto, united with that
organization in 1'*'48, — ^nor has he yet had cause to
regret the step then taken. In his preaching they
were not overpowering bursts of eloquence, rhetori-
cal figures, scholastic criticism, sonorous voice, and
beauty of diction, that kept the attention of his
hearers, — awakened and edified, it was holy earnest-
ness, enunciating vital truths in plain words,
electrified with the Spirit of God, that produced
those ejffects. As a pastor he excelled ; his visits
were not, as too oft they are in these drys of pro-
gress and refinement, merely fashionable calls, occa-
sionally tapered oflf with a few words of general
prayer. Children as well as adults felt that, while
he was there, a man of God was in the house. If
at times, on those occasions, he conversed about
worldly things, it was only to prepare the way for
the reception of the spiritual message. Nor did he
visit the wealthy ten times oftener than the poor.

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

In his character were beautifully blended genu-
ine humility and true dignity, perfect love and
perfect hatred, firmness and kindness, zeal and
prudence. Probably no missionary in these Pro-
vinces witnessed so many revivals as did the
sainted Croscombe. In almost every part of the
Province, fragrant memories gather around the hearts
of the older members. of our church, whenever his
name is mentioned. Many have said to the writer,
" the first Methodist sermon we ever heard was
from the lips of the Rev. Mr. Croscombe." By his
labors, scores, now on the verge of Jordan, waiting
for the word to cross ove?', were first led to Jesus,
and to fellowship with His people.

His cotempora^y brethren in the ministry have
nearly all passed away. None remain that came to
the Province as early as he did. One, however, sur-
vives who, after laboring two years in England, came
to Canada in 1816; and now, while bending be-
neath the weight of more than four-score years, still
preaches every Sabbath to the inmates of our Pro-
vincial Penitentiary. It is probable that Fathers
Pope and Croscombe spent more years of ministe-
rial toil in Nova Scotia than any other two mission-
aries that have sojourned among us. Nor have any
others been in labors and successes more abundant.

Not until compelled by loss of health did Mr.

Hiii.

MEMORIAIS OF

Croscombe become supernumerary. In his case our
Methodist phraseology was literally true, " loorn
outJ*^ He saw very few days of health during the
eight years of his retirement. Wearisome days and
nights were appointed him, yet he repined not. All
that could be done by a devoted wife, and affec-
tionate children, was done to comfort his soul in the
midst of intense bodily anguish. His confidence in
God remained firm to the end. At length on the
26th August, 1859, in the fiftieth year of his
ministry, the tabernacle fell into " ruinous decay,"
while the happy spirit went to God who gave it.

" O, liow sweet it will be in that beautiful land

When free from all sorrow and pain,
With son^s on our lips, and with harps in our hands,
"o meet one another again "

REV ALBERT DESBRISAY

Albert Dehbrisay was the son of an Episcopal
clergyman, for many years Rector of Charlottetown,
P. E Island. In the year 1815, under the evan-
gelical ministry of the Rev. John Hick he was con-
verted to God, and at once connected himself with
the Methodist society, convinced that it was his duty

1(1

l!ii

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

our
orn

the
and

All
ffec-
i the
je in
1 the
his
cay,
It.

Lscopal
etown,
evan-
as con-
If with
His duty

to cleave to the people by whose instrumentality he
was led into the enjoyment of experimental reUgion
This executed resolve of the son was quite distaste-
ful to the father, who hesitated not to express sternly
his disapprobation. But soon his prejudices were
completely overcome by the pleasing external evi-
dences of regeneration in the son ; so obvious were
the fruits of the Spirit in his conduct, so consistent
his walk and converse with his profession, that the
father's displeasure was turned into manifest cor-
diality.

Not long after his conversion his mind became
deeply impressed with the conviction that he ought
to devote himself to the work of calling sinners to
repentance Nor was he disobedient to the heavenly
intimation. Had he conferred with flesh and blood,
as we fear many young men have done, and are now
doing, he would have gone to the farm or merchan-
dize in preference to the more arduous and less
remunerative work of the ministry among the Wes-
leyans. But he was constrained not by the love of
ease, honor, or affluence, but by the love of Christ,
to engage in the responsible work. Any man who
enters the ministry under the influence of any other
constraint may have the call of the Church, but he
has not the call of God. Hirelings abound ! For
more than t^vo years his mental and moral energies

■1

MEMORIALS OF

were developed and strengthened in discharging
with acceptance and great fidelity the duties of a
local preacher. In 1822 he was admitted into the
itinerant ranks, and commenced in Petitcodiac those
public labors which were attended with pleasing
success wherever he sojourned. Parrsboro', Shef-
field, Bridgetown, St. John, Miramichi, and St.
Andrew's circuits shared in his ministerial services.
Many seals to his ministry were given him in all
these places, where he is still remembered with
gratitude to God.

Perhaps no minister in these Provinces ever ex-
celled brother Desbrisay in ability to introduce and
maintain religious conversation in the social and
domestic circle. His gentleness made him great.
As he respected everybody, everybody respected
him. Without affecting " the gentleman," he was
a Christian gentleman everywhere. He seemed
always to find " the more excellent way " in his
efforts to do good. A sound theologian, careful
thinker, and impressive speaker, — though not re-
garded as a great preacher, — he accomplished more
good than many men of superior talent and pulpit
oratory. His chief success in winning souls was
doubtless due to his remarkable talent and effort as
a pastor, in connection with his blameless life and
heavenly- mindedness.

WESLEY AN MISSIONARIES.

of a
[o the
those
Rasing

Shef-
Id St.
rvices.

in all
with

\er ex-
Ice and

il and
great,
tpected
I he was
seemed
in his
careful
I not re-
id more
pulpit
lis was
[effort as
life and

His health began seiiously to fail while engaged
in a remarkable revival of religion at Sheffield.
The result of physical prostration thus received was
a supernumerary relation. During a portion of the
eleven years of his retirement from circuit work, he
filled, with great credit to himself and decided
advantage to many of the youth of our country, the
of^ce of chaplain to our Academic Institutions at
Sackville. From Sackville he removed to Char-
lottetown, the place of his birth, where he finished
his earthly course. Almost to the last he was vari-
ously employed in doing good to the souls of men.
Great affliction, personal and domestic, was his lot ;
yet he bore all with a patience and resignation which
grace alone can inspire. He realized the full ben-
efit of sanctified affliction. He was ready when the
Master came, and without fear or hesitation entered
through death into rest, on Sabbath morning. May
24, 1857.

** I see a world of spirits bright,
Who reap the pleasures tliere;
They all are robed in purest white,
And conquering palms they bear."

■AMSMMtk

liiaMMMUMMMbMWHMlMWlMM

MEMORIALS OP

REV. WILLIAM DUTTON.

hi\\ ;

William Button was a native of England.
Converted in early life, he gave himself cheerfully
to the work of the ministry, and was sent out to
labor in Newfoundland Arriving at St. John's
early in 1870, he commenced at once to work for
God, endearing himself in a short time to all with
whom he became acquainted. With cheerfulness
he left the city for a remote part of the Island, — the
appointed place for his evangelistic efforts. The
people gratefully and joyously received the youthful
servant of God, who, in a few weeks, by his exem-
plary conduct, devoutness of spirit, holy zeal, and
Christian activities, enlisted the warmest sympathies
and most ardent religious affection of the Christian
population. Even those who were not professors of
religion began to discover in him that amiability and
consistency of character which generally command
esteem.

Blight pi*ospe3ts of usefulness loomed up before
his mental vision, suggested by indications of the
most pleasing character already vouchsafed. But
his fond hopes were not realized. Instead of active

WESLKYAN MISSION A KIKS.

before

of the

. But

active

service he was speedily summoned to the more dif-
ficult task of patient endurance. As the world re-
ceded the better country came more distinctly in
view. Not long did he buffet with the waves of
affliction. The happy release soon came. Amid
the tears and prayers of a stricken Church he depart-
ed triumphantly to his eternal home. Young men
of equal promise with our absent brother are very
rare. It is not easy to describe in words the re-
markable attractiveness of Mr. Dutton's character.
Perhaps rehgious fascination is as good a phrase as
can be found to show the influence of this brother
in rapidly winning the esteem of his fellow men. A
prominent and essential feature, hov/ever, in all such
cases is a large share of good, not common sense,
for good sense is not very common.

He surveyed from the margin the wide harvest field,

And began its ripe clusters to gather;
*' Tis enough," cried the Master, " come hither, \\\y child.

To the home of thy Heavenly Father."

MKM0HIAT.3 OF

Hji; '

REV. WII.LIAM ELLIS.

William Ellis was born in the North of Ireland,
County Down, in 1780 He was favored with Me-
thodistic influences in early life, yet, though often
impressed with the necessity of personal religion, he
did not obtain a conscious sense of pardon until he
was in his sixteenth year. About two years after
this important era in his life, he was called to witness
some of the fearful scenes of the Irish rebellion. In
connection with one of the many battles fought at
this time, his parents with their whole family were
concealed as they thought safely ; but the crying of
one of the children discovered them to the enemy,
who would have speedily put them all to death, hat
it not been for the timely arrival of the troops. This
providential deliverance strengthened his faith in
God, and stimulated him to work for the advance-
ment of His cause in the world. Soon as a Class
Leader and Local Preacher he found employment
in the vineyard. Following on to know and serve
so good a Master, he was led by evident indications
of Providence to give himself up wholly to the work
of preacliing the (iospoi Willing, as all true Me-

Mil

WKSI.EYAN MISSIONARIES.

^land,
Me-
often
)n, he
Itil he
after
dtness
n. In

ight at

tliodist preachers are, to lahor wherever sent, he
came as a missionary to Newfoundlaiul in 1808»
In this arduous field of toil he cheerfully devoted
the remninder of his life, — twenty-nine years nearly,
— all of which wore s}>ent in the effective work.

His preaching abilities were good. Oftentimes
his sermons were deliveied in a very eloquent man-
ner. He succeeded well in the difficult art of right-
ly " dividing the word of truth " And so will all
whom God calls, if they use diligently the means of
knowledge and grace within their roach. Mental
and moral power will not come to us like the air
we breathe, without attention to means.

In disposition Mr. Ellis was gentle, peaceful, and
humane ; ever ready to exhibit and appreciate the
Christian courtesies of domestic and social life. He
was intent on doing good ; nor did he labor in vain,
or long realize exemption from active service. He
was called from Harbor Grace to his Heavenly home
on the iilst September, 1837. Although seventy-
two years had now elapsed since the first Methodist
preacher came to Newfoundland, he was the first to
find a grave there.

*' His requiem still sing, ye proud waves of the sea,
Till Fiternity swallows up time ;
At home in a harbur from undertow free,
No storms in that beautiful clime."

H «»i

MKMORIAIiS oK

REV. rHOMAS GAETZ.

About forty years ago a few families of German
descent, Wesleyan Methodists, removed from the
beautiful La Have, in Lunenburg County, to the
mouth of the Musquodoboit River, Halifax County,
— establishing a small settlement, which, in due
time, became a regular preaching place for Wesleyan
ministers, and is now known in the Minutes of
Conference as the Musquodoboit Harbor Circuit.
Among the pleasing results of the Methodism thus
introduced into that region of country, has been the
raising up of three very zealous, talented, and use-
ful ministers of the Gospel, — all brothers of the
same family. The elder, Thomas, was scarcely
twelve years of age when he was led, chiefly through
the prayers, teaching and example of pious parents*
to the possession and enjoyment of the favor of God.
The genuineness of his conversion was manifest in
his life from that eventful period in his history.

An ardent thirst for knowledge impelled him,
amid many discouragements and few advantages, to
gather and treasure up in a most capacious and re-

WEdLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

ten live memo IV, from books and other available
>ources, chose materials of thought and action which
rendered him, in after years, so effective as a
minister.

In 1851, in the twentieth year of his age, he
became t» candidate for our ministry, and labored in
various portions of the Conference with acceptance
and success. The few last years of his ministry
were signally owned by the Head of the Church in
the conversion of sinners. Grand Bank and Perli-
can, in Newfoundland, will not soon forget the
name of Thomas Gaetz.

His preaching talents were above mediocrity, his
style argumentative, yet impressive : full of holy
zeal, not wildfii^e ; good voice, clear utterance, manly
appetirance, and intent on doing good, — it is not
matter of surprise that he was both popular and
useful. In the pulpit he was sometimes exceed-
ingly grave, again overflowing with animation,
arousing the minds of his hearers more by solemn
thought than by vehemence in action. In disposi-
tion he was kind, noble, generous, and affectionate ;
8ti:ongly attached to Methodism, but no bigot. He
was a prudent, loving husband, generous-minded
brother, and judicious parent. A long career of
usefulness was fondly anticipated by his brethren
and by the Church generally. But the Providence

-"O^NaNW

MEMORIAT^ OF

of God dashed those pleasiii | hopes to the g^round -
It is not for us to find fault, who can read but one
page of the book of Providence at a time. When
the book is opened, and we discover the connection
throughout, we shall see clearly what now is veiled
in obscurity. Sinners may not live out half their
days, but God's faithful child ' never die before
their time.

*' Our friend haa pfone before,

To that celestial shore ;
He hath left his mates behind,

He hath all the storms outrode t
Found the rest we toil to And,

Landed m the armi of God."

^1 !■

ifl||l

I i

BEV. CHARLES GASKIN.

Charles Gaskin, a native of Coverdale, New
Brunswick, was bom in 1829. Brought to God
through the instrumentality of Methodism, he
sought in every possible way to extend its influence.
Impressed with a strong desire to spread abroad the
truths of experimental religion, and convinced that
he was called to preach, he offered himself as a can-
didate for the Wesleyan ministry, in 1854. Ac-

WESLFYAN MISSIONARIES.

lad .
one
Ihen
tion
jiled
Iheir
Ifore

God
, he
lence.
id the
that
can-
Ac-

cepted and sent forth, he labored faithfully in various
places in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, till the
year 1860, when he was compelled through failing
health to become a supernumeraiy. Consumption had
marked him as a victim, and, after using for several
years every appliance suggested both by wise and
unwise physicians, his physical nature yielded to the
power of the disease. During portions of these
months of affliction, mingled feelings of hope and
despondency interrupted somewhat his spiritual en-
joyments. But towards the close of the severe
struggle between life and death, the mental clouds
dispersed, and the Sun of righteousness shone bright-
ly on his soul. He was thus enabled to triumph in
death. His spirit forsook the clay tabernacle on
the 10th March, 1861, in the 3^nd year of his age,
and 8th of his ministry.

He was an original thinker, very clear in the doc-
trines of Methodism, and faithful in expounding and
applying them. He preached the truth fearlessly —
not anxious about results, whether pleasing or offen-
sive. He seemed rather fond of controversy in de-
fending the truth, but his aim was to exhibit what
he believed, after careful investigation, to be the
teaching of the word of God. He was too firm to
allow the wish for peace to triumph over the down-
fall of truth. Somewhat eccentric in manner, and

mmmmmmtm

MEMORIALS OF

peculiar in disposition, his motives were sometimes
misunderstood ; but those who knew him most in-
timately loved him best.

The working time was brief.

The labor ended soon,
The Master's voice ended the grief, —

His sun went down at noon.

-'?

'hv^

■m:.?;' "Si:'

^ '!'"■■ ■

" KEV. HENRY HOLIANl). [

Henry Holland was bom in England, of devoted
Wesleyan parents. Early presented to God, in con-
nection with the Christian ordinance of baptism, and
instructed in Divine things at the earliest possible
period, he grew up a thoughtful, seri6us youth. In
his fifteenth year, he experienced the great change
from a state of nature to a state of grace, which all
must realize in order to enter the kingdom of heaven.

In 1851 he became a Local preacher in the fifth
Manchester circuit, where he labored for some
time, giving manifest proof that he was called of
God to preach the gospel.

In 1856 he came to Nova Scotia, and connected

himself with the Conference of Eastern British

America. With ardent zeal, ability, and success, he

labored on the Middle Musquodoboitj Gagetown,

;i I

WE3LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

Imes
in-

^oted
con-
I, and
isible
In
lange
khall
laven-
fifth
I some
id of

iected
iritish
IBS, he
town.

iand Upham circuits. His affectionate disposition,
genuine friendship, and consistent piety, greatly
endeared him to the people. Amiable, open-
minded, guileless, and generous, we are not
surprised that he was greatly beloved. Acceptable
in the pulpit, he marred not its influence when
out of it. But he excelled as a pastor. And
should iiot all excel here ? Not one in ten can be-
come a great preacher, but all may be good pastors.
If our brother had depended chiefly on his literary
attainments, his ministry would have been a failure.
However, the ministry of no man is a failure, who
is the instrument of bringing sinners to God. ^' He
that winneth souls is wise." After the Conference
of 1861, Mr. Holland visited the home of his
you^h, hoping that a sea voyage and a few months
recreation in dear old England would recuperate his
failing energies for the ardent work of the ministry,
which he loved intensely. But in this he was dis-
appointed. Gradually the springs of life relaxed,
the physical powers refused to perform their func-
tions, until he sank into the arms of death on the
24:th December, 1861, uttering the words, " Christ
is precious, — all is well."

" How swtet to die like this !
Tlie soul out-breathed as incense on th« breast

Of its Redeemer, softly, silently.
Love melted in hea/'n flood of His smile."

■i*

MEMORIALS OF

*,'V,t

; |.,-. '•<-■>:

REV. JAMES HOENE.

ImiH

lii

James Horne, of English parentage, was born in
1788. Having obtained the favor of God, he was
divinely prompted to work in the vineyard. He
was converted in the twenty-sixth year of his age.
After admission in the usual way to the ranks of the
ministry, he spent four years in the home-work,
thence he was transferred as a missionary to the
West Indies in 1818. For thirty- three years he
labored in word and doctrine in those Western
sunny Isles, when he was obliged to become a
supernumerary. JJuring the seven years he sus-
tained this relation to the work, he was not idle.
The cause of God was near his heart, and its
extension and consolidation enlisted all his remain-
ing energies. He was a faithful man, and feared
God above many. An ardent lover of the doctrines
of Methodism, he failed not to present them
prominently in his pulpit ministrations. He also
entertained a high appreciation of the discipline of
this branch of the Church, and endeavored every-

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

also
le of
rery-

where with firmness and caution to maintain it,
intelligently believing it to be quite in accordance
with the spirit of the New Testament.

He was emphatically a benevolent Christian, ever
ready to the extent of his ability to aid in the
various enterprises of Christianity, and to relieve
the destitute. He greatly rejoiced in the triumph
of truth. A lover of good men, he truly regarded
them, with the Psalmist, as " the excellent of the
earth."

Greatly attached to children, his estimate of the
value of Sabbath schools was very high. In
Bermuda, where his last years were spent, his
patriarchal form was often seen among them, im-
parting, in a genial manner, salutary counsels.

In the 68th year of his age, the messenger came

for his removal to another sphere of existence. He

was ready. Pleasing assurance of the fact was given

to the Minister, and others who visited him in his

last moments. His power of utterance failed while

attempting to repeat the beautiful verse, —

** There is my house and portion fair,
My treasure and my heart are there,
And my abiding home;" &c.

As he was unable to repeat the whole his brother
Minister finished it for him, which awakened a
smile of gratitude, both for the delightful sentiment

MEM0RIAT5 OP

of the hymn, and for the presence and sympathy of
a brother in Christ. In a few hours he entered
the " abiding home."

Fairer, sweeter, richer, fir,

Than India last or West;
Naught true happiness to mar,

In yonder peaceful rest;
Burning heats or hurricanes

Disturb not heaven's pure atmosphere ;
No more sorrow, death, or pains.

Or sin, or gushing tear.

EEV. RICHARD KNIGHT.

Richard Knight began his earthly career in
Devonshire, England, in the year 1189. His pa-
rents were not acquainted with experimental religion.
During the days of his youth, until near the peiiod of
manhood, he was, like most young persons, thought-
less, and given to folly and vain pursuits. But
about that time he was led to serious thought, by a
dream which powerfully affected his mind. Under
the influence of the awakened feelings and convic-
tions thus divinely wrought in him, he earnestly
sought and obtained that peace of mind and hallowed
joy which are ever among the fruits of the Spirit.

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

Ihy of
Itered

er m
lis pa-
[igion.
iriod of

)Ugllt-

But

f, bya
fnder
lonvic-
l-nestly
[lowed
Spirit.

Immediately lie let his light shine. Acting under
the unvarying impulse of the new nature, he began
to work for the salvation of souls. Nor did he labor
long without blessed results. His parents and some
members of the family were led through his con-
sistent piety and judicious conversation to seek an
interest in Jesus, — auspicious commencement for a
man of God. Gradually his single-minded earnest
efforts were extended to the surrounding country,
the Lord graciously accompanying the words of his
faithful servant with saving influences. After fill-
ing for some time with great acceptability the office
of Local preacher, he was accepted by the British
Conference as a candidate for missionary work, and
was appointed to Newfoundland in 1816. Cheer-
fully he bade adieu to " the home and the friends of
his youth," and hastened to the rugged shores of that
Island, to publish, in connection with remarkable
toil and success, " the unsearchable riches of Christ."
As a pioneer in many places, he endured hardships
and persecutions, happily unknown by personal ex-
perience among the servants of God in our day.
Full of holy ardor, he shrank not from Herculean
labors. In perils by land and sea, in perils from
wild beasts and wilder men, he went forward in the
path of duty, leaving results with God. Sometimes
his powerful physical, as well as mental energies,

•^JH-ULJ

MEMORIALS OF

'!i

i f

^i IH

were taxed to the utmost in clearing Satan's agents
out of his pathway. On one occasion while con-
ducting service, just as he was about beginning his
sermon, a man near the door commenced smoking
his pipe. Mr. Knight kindly requested him to de-
sist, but the request was unheeded. He then ex-
postulated with him on the folly and wickedness of
such conduct in the house of God, but all to no
purpose, — ^the man was stubborn. In vain did the
pjreacl^er appeal to some magistrates who were pre-
sent to interfere. At length, closing the Bible, Mr.
Knight saidi " If no one else will put that man out
of the house, I will.'* And he immediately left the
pulpit with brave heart and firm step resolved to
execute his purpose. But the offender, at that mo-
ment struck with conviction of sin, left the place to
seek that Saviour hose servant he had insulted.
In a few months after, that man became a member
of the Methodist church.

Throughout Newfoundland, to this day, the memo-
ry of Mr. Knight is cherished, with gratitude to
God, by hundreds who were led to Christ by his
feithful preajching and spiritual pastoral visits. Me-
thodism in that portion of our Conference is largely
indebted to the energetic, judicious, and persevering
efforte of that man of God.

Transferred to the Upper Provinces in 1833, he

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

memo-
tude to
by bis
. Me-
largely
levering

i33, be

still continued to be in labors abundant ; exemplify-
ing everywhere tbe fidelity, purity, and power of the
Christian religion. He was generally appointed to
what are called our most important stations, and
always" left his mark. He filled with great credit
to himself aL'^ "nfety to the interests involved, the
most important olices of our Church. For a loi\g
period he occupied the Chair in every district where
he resided, and more recently he became by the
vote of his brethren co-delegate of Conference.
These duties he always discharged with firmness
and discretion. The Missionary Committee in
London never had occasion to regret that they had
reposed great confidence in our beloved brother.
For nearly twenty-eight years these Provinces were
favored with his active and earnest ministry.

The writer vnll not soon forget his interview with
Mr. Knight at Charlottetown, in 1845, when he
offered himself as a candidate for the ministry. At
fir&t he seemed stern and unapproachable, but a
slight acquaintance dissipated the incorrect opinion.
A kinder heart, with larger sympathies and more
brotherly love than dwelt in the stalwart frame of
Mr. Knight, is seldom found among the sons of
Rarely have we seen God-like severity and

men.

human tenderness blend more beauteously. ' He
was inflexible, but only when he was convinced

^-iatr

MEMORIAI^ OF

that it would be wrong to yield ; humble, yet
dignified, aspiring yet lowly-minded, zealous but
cautious. He was an excellent preacher, though
not a first-class orator ; well read in theology, sound
in the faith, and clear in exposition ; full of courage,
mingled with christian gentleness. His discourses
were largely freighted with evangelical truth, yet
eminently practical. His admirable sermon at the
District meeting in Charlottetown in 1845, on
glorying in the cross of Christ, is still remembered
as a most impressive and eloquent discourse. We
remember how the congregation seemed to be
thrilled, while he recited in the most solemn and
touching manner the following soul-stirring lines of

Montgomery : ,

" I asked the Heavens—* What foe to God hath done

This unexampled deed? The Heavens exclaim
■ * 'Twas man ; and we in horror snatched the sun
From such a spectacle of guilt and shame 1'
I asked the sea, — the sea in fury boiled,
And answered with his voice of storms — * 'Twas raan—
My waves in panic at his crime recoiled,
Disclosed the abyss, and from the centre ran.' i>

I asked the earth,— the earth replied aghast,
• 'Twas man-^^and such strange pangs my bosom rent,
That still I groan and shudder at the past.' ^

— Toman, gay, smiling, thoughtless man I went.
And ask'd him next; He turned a scornful eye, *'• i''

Shook his proud head, and deigned me no reply."

A man of progressive ideas, he was ever ready to
engage in any religious or moral movement calcu-
lated to benefit our race. Henco his sympathy with

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

yet
I but

ugh
und

[age,
irses

yet

the

)ered

and

ies of

man—

Irent,

|ady to
calcu-
with

the temperance reform. Nor was he content with
wishing it well, without putting his shoulder to the
wheel. By personal example and earnest pleading
with his fellow men, in the pulpit and on the plat-
form, he endeavored to extend its sound principles
and safe practice Associated for years with the
** Sons of Temperance," he gave that useful institu-
tion his hearty and prayerful support. Would to
God that all ministers would imitate his example
in this respect !

In short, if a large measure of good sense, fair
education, genuine piety, ready utterance, unflinch-
ing fidelity, virtuous sensibility, untiring diligence,
and dignified demeanor constitute a good Methodist
preacher, the Rev. R. Knight deserved that des-
ignation. After spending forty-four years in the
ministry, without asking for a supernumerary rela-
tion even for one year, ** he ceased at once to work
and live." His sudden death was of the most
triumphant kind. The hallelujahs of eternity were
on his lips e'er he was quite across the waters of

Jordan.

" Who would not wish to die like those

Whom God's own Spirit deigns to bless;
To sink into that soft repose, ,, ,

. Then wake to perfect happiness."

, 1 ■ •> «

-^jf'"^'.:'

■,\

-s-sae

6ft

MEM0RtAI;9 OF

REV. JAMES KNOWLAN.

James Knowlan was bom in the year 1779.
We have failed to learn any particulars respecting
the time or circumstances connected with his conver-
sion ; but we are assured of the professed fact in that
he was recommended by the lay members of the
Church, where he lived at the time, as a suitable can-
didate for our ministry, examined by men of God,
accepted and employed as a minister. After labor-
ing in the good work for sixteen years, he was sent
out as a missionary to the West Indies, thence to
Nova Scotia and Canada, his firs^ oircuit being Mon-
treal, where he remained three years. From thence
he went to Three Rivers, St. Armand's, and Odell
Town, where he discharged the duties of a Metho-
dist preacher. For four years in succession he was
Chairman of the Canada district, the whole work
being comprised in one district at that time. In
1831 he was appointed to Westmoreland, N. B.
Soon after this be became supernumerary.

In 1834 he took up his residence in Halifax, N. S.,
where he remained until death. For a short pe-
riod he was employed in Nova Scotia as a temper-

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

ance lecturer, but failing health induced him to re-
tire from all public engagements. He was called to
his final home on the 17th October, 1845, in the
66th year of his age, and 39th of his ministry.

Mr. Knowlan possessed good natural abilities,
which were improved by extensive reading and
prayerful study. He understood Wesleyan Theol-
ogy well, and was also thoroughly acquainted with
the system of Wesleyaa Church Government.

When he left Canada, in 1831, there were only
nine Wesleyan Methoaist p/eachers in the whole
country. Their names were as follows ; Matthew
Lang, Richard Pope, Sup'y., Wm. Squire, J. P.
Heatheringcon, Thomas Turner, John Hick, James
Booth, Richard Williams, William E. Shenstone.
Now there are more than 600 there.

ft '* Jesus, thy servants bless,

Who sent by Thee proclaim
The peace and joy and righteousness,
Experienced in Thy name."

pe-
[per-

■ ^y- .1 r ' .

'^ .

MEMORIALS 0¥

EEV. JOHN MANN.

John Mann was born in New York, in 1743.
While quite young his father died, leaving him to
the care of his over-indulgent mother, who was
pained to see him grow up a thoughtless, wicked
young man. In his twenty-first year he married in
a very respectable family, and commenced business.
After a time, becoming embarrassed in trade, he left
his family and went to Philadelphia. Here he
was awakened to a sense of his lost condition as a
sinner, under the preaching of the Rev. Mr.
Stringer (Episcopalian), formerly a Methodist
preacher in England. He forsook at once his
sinful companions, and returned to New York ; and
as his mother was a member of the Moravian
Church, he sought and obtained fellowship there.
But not finding the food his soul desired, and fre-
quently hearing the preaching of Captain Webb,
who described his case more clearlv, he left the
Moravians and joined the Methodist Society. About
this time the first preachers sent out by Mr. Wesley
arrived at New York. Mr. Mann found peace with
God while listening to a sermon preached by one of

WESLEYAN MISSI0NAUIE8.

743.
|m to
was
Icked
;d ill
Iness.
left
he
as a
Mr.
lodist
his
and
ivian
there,
fre-
'ebb,
h the
Lbout
'esley
with
>ne of

these preachers, the Rev. Mr. Boardman. He soon
after this became a Class leader and Local preacher,
exercising his gifts on Long Island and contiguous
places. When the English preachers forsook New
York at the commencement of the Revolutionary
War, Mr. Mann kept the John Street Church open
until a travelling preacher by the name of Spraig
was sent from Philadelphia to take charge of it. At
the conclusion of the war, he thought it his duty to
take refuge within the British lines. Accordingly,
with a number of others, he came in a vessel to
Shelburne, N. S. At that time Shelburne con-
tained a population of 10,000 or 12,000 persons.
But it soon became almost depopulated, there being
no surrounding country to sustain a town, and no
prospect, because of abounding rocks, to make such
a country.

From his first landing Mr. Mann continued
preaching the Gospel for some years, but, becoming
straitened in his circumstances, with the advice of
Captain Dean and other friends, he removed to Liv-
erpool, where he was instrumental in winning many
souls to Christ. But the people being either unable
or unwilling, — as some are in our day to pay for a
free Gospel, — to give him much assistance, he could
not support his rising family in the place, and medi-
tated a removal elsewhere. Yet in the midst of his

MEMORIALS OF

worldly trials the Lord blessed hiin with a large
measure of the spirit of holiness, especially on one
occasion, while on a visit to "Windsor. Shortly-
after this (1784), he, in company with his brother
James and William Black, went to Philadelphia,
where he was ordained both deacon and elder.
After an absence of eight weeks, he returned to
Liverpool, and thence, in a short time, to Newport,
N. S., where he resided till death. Here he was
the instrument of a glorious revival of religion,
resulting in the formation of a Methodist Society
numbering sixty members. Some of these, to the
great grief of their pastor and spiritual father, after
a time embraced Antinomian principles, and joined
the New Lights, while others fell into open sin.

The last few years of his life were full of troubles
and 'iistresses of a domestic nature, " which some-
times seemed to produce in him a degree of impa-
tience. The loss of two daughters and a son-in-
law, who were cut oit by an untimely stroke,
appeared to prey upon his spirits, and in some de-
gree to eclipse those bright discoveries of the perfect
love of God to his soul with which he had been so
highly favored." After he became a supernumerary,
he continued to travel and preach in the region
round about Newport as long as he could ride on
horseback. But f*^" the last two years of hie life he

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

lone

rtiy

kher

Ihia,

Ider.
to

^ort,

Iwas

ion,

^iety

the

ifter

lined

ibles
)me-
ipa-
-in-
loke,
de-
;rfect
jn so
[rary,
igion
le on
Ife he

was confined to his house. He was visited by many
friends during his prot'-acted illness, among others
by the Rev. R. Alder, who was stationed in the
neighborhood, iJnd who has testified to the unshaken
confidence and rejoicing faith of Mr. Mann in his
latest hours. 1 o his own son^ at that time a Class
leader, he said, just before he died, " I have no fear
of death; it is all taken away." Thus, happy in
the Lord, died the Rev. John Mann, on the 26th
February, 1817, in the 74th year of his age and 31st
of his ministry. He had indeed preached the Gos-
pel for forty-five years, but only thirty -one since his
name appeared on the British Minutes of Con*
ference.

He was not what is generally called an eloquent
preacher, yet he possessed a sound judgment and
clear understanding. Sometimes he was very pow-
erful, meriting the appellation, " Son of thunder."
He was well acquainted with all the doctrines of
Methodism, and was a great lover of Mr. Wesley's
writings. He studied the Bible well, and thorough-
ly understood the plan of salvation, quite as well, it
is probable, as we do in this age of advanced Biblical
exposition. In his sermons he generally confined
himself to the plain doctrines, precepts, promises,
and threatenings of the Sacred Volume, more
anxious to save souls than to be thought an Intel-

MEMORIALS OF

lectual preacher. He was a sincere Loyalist, and
to the end remained an unflinching friend of the
British Constitution. His example in this respect is
worthy of our imitation to this day.

REV. JAMES MANN.

James Mann, a younger brother of the Kev.
John Mann, a sketch of whose ministerial life has
just been given, was born in 1750. He emigrated
to the Province of Nova Scotia in the same year
and for the same reasons that his brother did,
and for a time taught school in Liverpool. It was
while here that he experienced religion, and began
to work for God. His talents for usefulness in the
vineyard were soon apparent, and, being urged by
the people of God, as well as by the Holy Spirit and
the intimations of Providence, he gave himself up
wholly to the work of the ministry. He was pro-
bably the second person converted in Nova Scotia
that became a Methodist preacher.

He labored in word and doctrine in various parts
of the Provinces, but chiefly in Nova Scotia, and

\VESLE\AN MISSIONARIES.

|t, and

)f the
)ect is

Rev.

[fe has
[grated
le year
fcr did,
lit was
began
in the
jged by
krit and
self up
[is pro-
Scotia

IS parts
bia, and

especially in Liverpool, Shelburne, and Barrington.
The results of his efforts are seen to this day in the
number and inlluence of the adherents of Methodism
these places. When the writer began his

itinerancy in these regions in 1846, there were
largs communities where three-fourths of the people
were Methodists.

Mr. Mann performed more journeys on foot than
perhaps any other Methodist preacher ever did in
the Province of Nova Scotia. His principal home
for the last few years of his life was Shelburne ; but
as he was never married, and realized not the influ-
ence of family ties, he felt at home wherever he
was made welcome, even though the fare and fur-
niture were of the plainest possible kind. There
used to be an air of comfort and contentment in
the log-house kitchen, with its smiling open fire, in
those days of yore, that seldom finds its way into
the richly-furnished parlor. I believe that if some
of us had for one year to experience the hardships
and exposure that brother Mann realized for a score
of years, we would be able to write some very sen-
sational articles for the Wesleyan.

For thirty-three years he diligently and success-
fully discharged the duties devolving upon a preacher
of the Gospel. All his ministerial life was spent in
the active duties of the ministry except one year

MEMORIALS OF

His name appears on the Minutes for 1819 as a su-
pernumerary, but he continued working till death.
His oft-expressed desire was granted :

** O, that without a lingering groan
I may the welcome word receive;
My body with mj' charge lay down,
And cease at once to work and live."

He died in the vineyai'd, — not in the hospital.

On Christmas-day, 1820, he conducted Divine
Service in the morning, baptized some children,
married a couple, and administered the sacrament
of the Lord's Supper, and crossed over Jordan's
stream to the heavenly shore. A glorious termin-
ation to a ministerial career !

This event took place at North East Harbor, about
twenty miles from Shelburne. His mortal remains
were,\however, conveyed to the last named place,
and interred beneath the pulpit that is still occupied
by Wesleyan Ministers. As a preacher Mr. Mann
excelled. Being a fair scholar and of studious habits.
He was well versed in theology. In the pulpit he
was grave, devout, earnest and impressive. A rich
vein of evangelical truth was discernible in all his
sermons. Intent on bringing souls to God, he ever
kept this in view in all his discourses. He had many
opportunities for fire-side preaching, and they w ere
well-improved. The necessity for similar work still
remains. Alas, it is not always improved to the

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

su-
;ath.

ll.

divine
idren,
iment
rdan's
Irmln-

best advantage ! He preserved to the end an un-
blemished reputation, yet he had many a severe strug-
gle with self and sin, for his natural temper was
irritable ; but grace triumphed. He was apparently
severe in denouncing what was wrong, — so was the
Apostle John. We are in danger, in this age ofre-
iinement, of going to the other extreme. Very few
now attempt to persuade men as St. Paul did, by
"the terror's of the Lord.^'*

*' A Caeftar'g title less my envy moves,
Than to be styled the man whom Jesus loves;
What charms, what beauties in his face did shine
Keilected ever from the face Divine 1 "

REV. JOHN MARSHALL.

John Marshall, a native of Peterborough, Eng-
land, was born in 1787. He was a Methodist by
second birth, — a Methodist minister by the will of
God. He was sent out to the West Indies as a
missionary in 1818, in the thirty-first year of his
age. He temained but a short time there, in conse-
quence of failing health. He came to Nova Scotia
in 1820, where he spent thegreater portion of his min-

MEMORIALS OF

isteiial life. Pie occupiecl some of ouv p'incipal cir-
cuits in Ne-w Brunswick, Prince Edward Island,
and Nova Scotia. He was no! physically robust,
yet capable for many years of performing well the
duties of a true servant of God in connection with
the ministry. Exceedingly grave in deportment,
the result of a serious mind; he was gentle in
disposition, but earnest in spirit. His tender-
ness of conscience and open susceptibility ren-
dered it difficult to avoid mental friction, when
ass(. dating with brethren of impetuous tempera-
ment and rougher piety ; but his deep devotion to
God, and eminent heavenly-mindedness, enabled
him to overcome this mental rather than morJ
infirmity. He resented not even impertinence.
Anger seemed to have no place in his soul. He
reproved sinners when occasion required, but even
the severest words were permeated with love. Very
few men, lay or ministerial, were more worthy of
the desirable designation, " Beloved disciple."
Those circuits which were favored with his minis-
trations delight lo speak of his eminent piety, holy
ardor, and prayerful efforts to bring sinners to God,
and to lead believers into the possession of scriptural
holiness. His abilities as a preacher were above
the ordinary. But it was the special unction
from above that rendered his public and private

WESLEYAN MtSSlONARIES.

m:^

ll cir-
tland,
)bust,
\\ the
with
Iment,
tie in
;nder-
ren-
when
ipera-
lion to
labled
morJ
inence.
He
It even
Very
irthy of
sciple."
minis -
^ holy
God,
riptural
above
lunCtion
private

ministrations so edifying to the church. His sermon
at the District meeting in Charlottetown in 1845, on
sinners repenting and angels rejoicing, was much
admired for its scriptural character, spiritual power,
and Methodistic simplicity. No abler sermon was
preached at that gathering.

In 1848, the writer was placed under his super-
intendence on the Newport and Maitland circuits, — •
a wide range of country embracing now the greater
portion oijive circuits. Our first interview in the
study of the Mission house at Meander was hal-
lowed by mutual prayer suggested by the Super-
intendent. For t\yo years our ministerial inter-
course was of the most happy, harmonious, and
profitable character. He never neglected the good
old Methodist custom of praying with his colleague,
when about to separate. The recollection of those
solemn and refreshing interviews awakens pleasing
emotions to this day. Many years afterwards, when
he became supernumerary, and the young man
Superintendent of the Truro circuit, our religious
fellowship was renewed. We then found him,
though in feebleness extreme, the same devout,
serious, and prayerful man of God. Unable to
preach, yet he Uved not in vain. His holy life and
fervent prayers were of great service to the cause of

God. The former influenced his fellow men, the
4

MEM01UAI.8 OF

latter brought down blessings from the gieat
Mediator. Naturally timid and unobtrusive he was
not forward in speaking of his own religious attain-
ments or labors, yet never hesitated, when Christian
prudence dictated, to glorify the Master in that way*
*' I have constant peace with God," was his calm
utterance at a love feast in Halifax, From the
experience thus beautifully intimated we learn the
principal secret of his power with God in prayer,
and with men when in the pulpit. He was empha-
tically a man of one book and one work. He lived
to honor God, extend the Redeemer's kingdom,
and do good to his fellow men, and by the grace of
God accomplished them to a larger extent than is
usual. Few men that we have known had so little
of earthliness and so much of heaven as Mr.
Marshall. He had his trials, but he bore them
like a Christian. He had his infirmities, but they
were not so prominent as to mar the symmetry of
his spiritual character. We would not glory in
men, but we would magnify the grace of God in
giving us such men. His last illness was protracted
and severe, yet he murmured not. Indeed, the
whole of his supernumerary career, 13 years, was
one of severe trial, because of inability for most of
the time to take any part in ministrations of the
sanctuary. Acquiescing in the will of God, he

WESLEYAN MISSION ARIEH.

I eat
^as

|\in-

lian

ray.

ilm

the

Iyer,
>ha-

lived
lorn,
le of
m is
little
Mr.
them
they
•y of

ry in
)d in
lacted
the
was
lost of
)f the
Id, he

could ever say, ** For me to live is Christ, and to
die is gain." That gain he has been realizing since
the 12th July, 1864. He peacefully departed in
the 77th year of his age and the 46th of his min-
istry. The writer has often read, >vith emotions
known only to ministers, the suggestive and appro-
priate inscription, " In Christ," on the marble head-
stone of the grave at Lunenburg, where lie the mor-
tal remains of the sainted John Marshall.

** G(k1 gives us ministers of love,

Which we regard not, being near;
Death takes them from us, then we feel
TImt sinjjels havi) been with us here-''

MEMORIALS OP

REV. WILLIAM MARSHALL.

William Makshall, a native of England, was
bom in the year 1811. The particulars of his con-
version we have not learned. He entered the min-
istry in 1838, and was sent out as a missionary to
Newfoundland in 1839. Appointed a visiting mis-
sionary to the Western shore of that Island, he was
made a great blessing to the destitute people. In
many places religious pnvileges were unknown.
The inhabitants were perishing for lack of knowledge.
Many for the first time beheld in Mr. Maishall a
minister of the Gospel. As a pioneer he was emi-
nently successful in preparing the way of the Lord,
as subsequent prosperity testifies. The privations
he endured, and the exposure to wet and cold asso-
ciated with boating, were too great for his physical
ability. The seeds of early dissolution thus sown
grew and matured.

At Green Bay he also labored with great success.
Multitudes were turned to God through his instru-
mentality.

Eminently holy, he could not be otherwise than
useful.

WR8I.EYAN MISSIONARIES.

was

con-

min-
[ry to
mis-
was
In

10 wn.

[edge.

lall a
emi-
.ovd,

itions
asso-

lysical
sown

iccess.
istru-

A Christian of the noblest type, humble in dis-
position, fervent in spirit, and active in the vineyard,
we wonder not that he was greatly beloved of God
and man. A popularity obtained by deep devotion
to God, ardent love for souls, and unwavering at-
tachment to truth, may be safely coveted by any
minister. Brother Marshall enjoyed that popularity
in a high degree. His memory is yet enshrined in
the affections of the '^ple where he toiled. Sound
and clear in the d" s of Methodism, and faithful

in expounding ana <*pplying them ; firm, yet cau-
tious, in defending them ; and, above all, daily
interweaving them in the thread of life, we are led
to conclude that Mr. Marshall was a model preacher.
But holiness is no defence against physical weak-
ness, especially if pure zeal constrains us to tax un-
wisely the power God has given us. His career of
usefulness soon ended He officiated at the watch-
night service vvhich ushered in the year 1846, and
in nine days after, in the 35th year of his age, and
8th of his ministry, he departed to be with Jesus,
Twillingate graveyard contains the dust of this holj
man.

than

MEM0R1AT<8 OF

REV. SAMUEL B. MARTIN.

Samuel B. Martin, a native of Cornwall, Eng-
land, came to this country when quite youtig. He
experienced the convertinj^- grace of God in Char-
lottetown, P. E. I., during the great revival which
took place under the ministry of the Rev. F. Small-
wood. After this, he soon began to work for his
Lord and Master, impelled by the strongest of moral
influences, — the love of Christ. For a time he
discharged the duties of a hired local preacher on
the Lunenburg circuit. From that circuit he was,
in 1861, recommended to the Conference as a suita-
ble candidate for the Wesleyan ministry.

He pursued with zeal, energy, and success the
important vocation on two circuits before his ordi-
nation,— Musquodoboit Harbor and New Germany,
—where he won the affections of the people, and
accomplished much good. After his reception into
the full work of the ministry, at the close of a year
spent in the theological institution at Sackville, he
occupied successively the followipg circuits : Nash-
waak, N. B., Middle Musquodoboit, and Port Mou-
ton. While at the last-named place, where he was
being vejy successful in doing good, he was sad-

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

lar-

lich

lalU
his

ioral
he
on

[was,

luita-

the
lordi-
Uny,

I, and

into
year
Icj he
lash-
klou-
was
sud-

denly prostrated hy affliction. Though short, it was
very severe. But, in the midst of all, he was en-
abled to say " Father, Thy will >)e done." The
grace of God alone can enable the human being, in
the prime of life, in the midst of usefulness, sur-
rounded by a loving people, a devoted wife and
children, to say with composure, " Farewell earth-
welcome eternity." Brother Martin was a faithful
worker in the cause of God. The honored instru-
ment of bringing many sinners to Christ, he was
greatly beloved wherever he labored. His success
was the result of earnest, persevering toil, rather
than of the exercise of brilliant talents. He was more
remarkable i'or heart excellencies than for intellectual
possessions. Yet he was not Avanting in any of those
faculties of mind which, when governed by good
sense and sound moral principle, fit a man for use-
fulness in the Gospel vineyard. He was called to
his heavenly home on the 28th October, 1871, in
the tenth year of his ministry. His early death is
admonitory to our youthful Conference. More than
half the number of our efficient ministers now (1872)
were not in our ranks when our departed brother
b3came a member of the Conference.

•• Forever from the hand that takes
One blessing from us, others tall ;
And soon or late our Father makes
His perfect recompense for all."

MEMORIALS OF

■,!■:

REV. WILLIAM McDONALD.

William McDonald, of Scotch parentage, was
born in the year 1801. Careless in youth respecting
the things of God, he grew up to manhood before
he sought an interest in Jesus' blood. He was first
awakened by Divine truth under a sermon preached
ai Quebec, on shipboard, by the now aged and ven-
erable Father Pope, who lingers among us to preach
the Gospel, and to interest his brethren by marvel-
lous ministerial reminiscences, reaching back fifty-
eight years. After many days and weeks of pun-
gent conviction of sin, and earnest wrestling for
mercy, he was visited by the light of God's coun-
tenance, and became a rejoicing believer. As usual
after conversion, he began to work for the Master,
and exhibiting talents eminently adapted for useful-
ness, he was providentially led into the ministry.
It was manifest to all that he was in his right place
in the Church of Christ. Coming to Nova Scotia
in 1830, he travelled only three circuits until his
work was done. Liverpool, where he was .greatly
esteemed and beloved, was his last circuit. Here
his health failed, and death severed the union be-
tween body and spirit on the 16th March, 1834.

WE3LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

was
Icting
lefore

first
iched

ven-
ireach

irvel-

fifty-

pun-

[g ^or
Icoun-

usual

[aster,
liseful-
pstry.

place
I Scotia
Itil his

greatly
Here

)n be-
1834.

Great disappointment was felt in all the churches at
his early dea1:h, for he gave unusual promise of re-
markable usefulness. His preaching talents were of
the first order. Naturally eloquent, full of well-
balanced zeal, and intent on saving' sinners, his short
ministry was not in vain. With a commanding ap-
pearance, capacious, pleasing voice, large intellect,
and warm heart, he was eminently adapted, not only
to win popular applause, but to accomplish much
good.

But the Master thought best to remove him from
the midst of earthly admirers, and to allow the work
to be carried forward by other hands and hearts.
We are slow to believe, and perhaps disinclined to
think of, the fact that God can do without us. And,
in all probability, could we see the future as God
sees it, we would say oftener than we do, ^' Taken
from the evil to come." Some very talented minis-
ters have lived to pass through such scenes of temp-
tation and personal trial, as doubtless often to wish
that they had been called to the l^eavenly home, at
an early period in their ministerial career, i ,h

:' Waiting the Master's calling,

To hence remove or stay,
J ;\'. v " Come now," was not appalling;

He gladly went away ; , ...

Happy on earth in preacliing,

The wondrous lore of God; ' .; :^ .!

Still happier on retching.
• ' His Father's bright abode.

. t'lte-' *'• ■• ' '^w Vj?»f<i !'■ tl

MEMORIALS OF

REV. DUNCAN McCOLL.

About the time Mr. William Black was converted
to God in Nova Scotia, the Lord was preparing a
young man in the British army for the planting and
nou ifjhing of Methodism in New Brunswick. The
name of Duncan McColl will be long remembered
in that Province.

Born in Argyleshire, North Britain, in 1754, of
parents attached to the Episcopal church of Scotland,
he was brought up under religious influences, and
according to his own statement was concerned about
the salvation of his soul at a very early period of life.

By peculiar domestic circum&tances he was led to
connect himself with th ; army. The regiment with
which he was associated soon after left for these
Provinces. The war between Great Britain and her
American Colonies was then in progress. Mr.
McColl was wonderfully preserved in several en-
gagements. On one occasion three volleys of a
company of the enemy were fired at hivi alone as
he was crossing a valley for some important pur-
pose in connection with the war, but he was un-
harmed ! He says, in reference to that event, " I
do not speak extravagantly when I say that the
shower of bullets resembled a shower of hail stones

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

[ted

llhe

[red

I, of
ind,
land
Lout
life.
Id to
Ivith
lese
her
Mr.
en-
lof a
le as
|pur-
un-
" I
the
lones

The earth was torn in evei^ spot, or foot. 'J he hair
was cut off my head, and my clothing torn into
pieces. But at the third volley the firing at once
ceased. Our Major said, ' make haste and fall into
the ranks, for the whole fire is at you.' I smiled
and looked at the enemy, saying, ' they have not
a bullet in their budget that can hurt me to day.' "

Providentially led to Jamaica, he began while
there to review his life, and became deeply con-
vinced of his sinful state before God. Penetrating
convictions of sin troubled his soul, until the pas-
sage of scripture came powerfully to his mind, —
" Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt
be savedi'' He was enabled to believe, and, receiv-
ing the spirit of adoption, was made very happy
in the Divine favor. He waited not for church fel-
lowship, but began at once to work for his redeeming
Lord. A few months after this, while in Bermuda,
he met with a Miss Channel, from Philadelphia, who
was a member of the Methodist society, and who
spake freely of experimental religion, which led him
to conclude that he had found the people of God.
Next we find him at Halifax, shortly after Mr.
Black had visited the place, where he was married
to the young lady referred to. While in Halifax
he became so interested in Methodism as to write to
Mr. Wesley for aid to build a preaching house

MEMORIALS OF

intimating that if he could grant them £500, the
people in Halifax would raise £500 more. Mr.
Wesley replied, ** If you are so well off, as to afford
£500, I think that will answer for the present ; we
have as much to do with our money, as we can
manage." A house, however, was built, in which
Mr. Black preached, and formed a Methodist society.
From Halifax Mr. McColl removed to St. An-
drew's, N. B., where he engaged in secular busi-
ness ; yet he neglected not the duties of religion,
but soon gathered the people to his own house, and
exhorted them to repent and seek salvation. As
yet he knew but little of Methodism, but he formed
a class and conducted matters as nearly as possible
after the plan of the Methodists. Shortly after this
he became permanently settled at St. Stephen. In
the spring of 1792 Mr. Black visited St. Stephen.
Mr. McColl accompanied him on his return to St.
John, where a Mr. Bishop, a preacher from the
States, had been laboring very successfully during
the winter. In 1795 the Rev. Jesse Lee, of blessed
fame, from New England, visited St. Stephen, and
requested Mr. McColl to attend their Conference
held at New London. He was there ordained by
Bishop Asbury, and remained several months,
greatly refreshed in spirit by the manifestations of
grace in that land. The winter of 1795-96 was
remarkable for a great revival at St. Stephen, which

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

Ithe

Lr.
lord

we
jean
lich

lII-

lusi-
lion,
land

led
dble

this
In
ihen.

St.

the
iring
jssed

and
lence
p by
[nths,

IS of
was

^hich

fully established Methodism in that place. In 1798
he was requested by Mr. Black to hasten to Anna-
polis, as a great work had commenced He acceded
to the request, and spent two months there amid re-
vival scenes. Mr. McColl's name first appeared on
the Minutes of Conference in the year 1793. He
did not, however, remove from circuit to circuit, ex-
cept to make short visits, the delicate state of his
wife's health being an insuperable barrier in the
way. In 1826 he gave up the charge of the cause
of God in connection with Methodism in the West-
ern parts of New Brunswick, and in 1827 a niinis-
ter was appointed to St. David, and another to St.
Stephen in 1829. After preaching the Gospel with
great success for nearly fifty years, he fell asleep in
Jesus, December 17, 1830. Mr. McColl evidently
possessed great native mental independence and
energy. As a Christian, he was firm and devoted
to God. As a minister he excelled ; for those are
the greatest and best who win most souls for Christ.
He struggled hard with poverty, yet often received
supplies in answer to prayer. His last days were
rendered comfortable in this respect, by reason of
his connection with the financial system of Meth-
odism. '■'., V

The tears and tlie prayers of the pioneer band

Have to us a rich legacy given ;
We sliall talk it all o'er when with them we shall stand
Midst the glorified niilliuns of Heaven.

•A

MEMOKIAJS OF

REV. WILLIAM C McKINNON.

William C. McKinnon was born at Sydney,
Cape Breton, in 1824 In early youth he gave
evident indications of the possession of talents which
inclined him towards literary pursuits. He was
Tery fond of natural history, especially ornithology,
and had written on the subject, and made quite a
respectable collection of birds, while yet a mere
youth. As he approached manhood, he gave him-
self to writing for the press. Careless of Divine
things, he wrote more to please than to profit the
readers. Political discussion and fiction were now
the delight of his mind. Two or three of his novels
were published in book form, and read with relish
by those who prefer shadow to substance. After his
conversion to God, he often expressed regret that he
had written these works, and whenever he could
obtain a copy it never was read again by any person.

Literature induced him to remove to Halifax,
where, in the midst of vanity and folly, he was
arrested by the Divine Spirit, and became an earnest
seeker of salvation. It was at the midnight hour-
just as the watch-night service in the old Wesleyan

WESLfiYAN MISSIONARIES.

ley,
lave

'as

e a

Chapel, Argyle street, was being brought to a close,
— that he, having casually dropped in, was awak-
ened to a sense of his guilty condition in the sight of
God. From that hour his whole course of life and
thought was altered. Soon brought into the sunshine
of the Divine favor, he began to work for his new
Master. Heart and hand must now toil for Jesus.
In the vineyard of Christ, on the Wesleyan side of
the field, he soon found congenial employment. He
entered the ministry in 1853, and soon gave abun-
dant proof that he was called of God to that impor-
tant work. His fertile pen as well as fluent tongue
were vigorously employed in extending the Re-
deemer's kingdom. Some thrilling articles on mis-
sions indicated an intense longing in his heart for
the spiritual welfare of India. He would willingly
have gone thither as a missionary had his health
permitted. . •.-',/v:: : r • v > v'- • ■

By most diligent attention to study he became
v/ell acquainted not only with theology, but with
various branche s of scientific enquiry, especially
geology. Some of his published articles on this
latter subject were quite respectable productions.
His attainments in divinity were pleasingly exhi-
bited in a small volume of sketches of sermons.
They were, however, very limited in their circula-
tion. Writings of that kind, unless displaying

MEM0R1AI.S OF

remarkable genius or eccentricity, will not be
popular in this age of the world. The writer had
an opportunity of examining, in manuscript, a
commentary on the Book of Revelation, which he
contemplated publishing. Though well rrranged,
and displaying much thought and care, it would
probably have been about as useless and unpopular
as more than half the writings of divines on that
prophetic portion of the New Testament. The
Providence of God is the best expounder of that
book.

Mr. McKinnon's piety was of the most earnest
type. His preaching was argumentative, persuasive,
forcible, and evangelical. He crowded into the nine
years of his ministry an unusual amount of work for
the blessed Master. His mind was frequently so
absorbed with the great themes of the Christian
ministry that he seemed almost to lose sight of the
outer world Often in the family and social circle
he was somewhat absent-minded, but never so when
the congenial th^imes of experimental religion were
topics of conversation. His labors were expended
chiefly on the Guysboro', Bedeque, Middle Mus-
quodoboit, and Shelburne circuits. On the last
named he sank into the arms of death ; a prey to
consumption. Full of fidth and the Holy Ghost,
he cJieerfuUy bade adieu to a beloved wife and two

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

be
Ihad
a
he
ced,
huld
ular
that
Tlie
that

children, assured that to die would be gain. The
" home of the soul " was reached on the 26th
March, 186!ii.

Mingling with the saints in glory,
Pondering o'er redemption's story,

Adding to his mental store;
Adoration his employment.
Seeing Jesus his enjoyment;

Safe and happy evermore.

EEV. SAMUEL McMASTERS.

Samuel McM asters was born in Nova Scotia in
1806. He entered the itinerant ranks in 1836, and
commenced with great earnestness of mind and phy-
sical vigor the work of a Methodisl preaclier. His
early eftbrts awakened in the minds of Viis bretlireu
pleasing anticipations of usefulness for a long period.
A few years only v as he permitted to pursue the
heavenly calling. On the Petitcodiac and Sussex
Vale circuits he gave proof that he had not run
before he was sent by the Divine Master. After

is*- V A

MEMORIALH OF

this he was appointed assistant preacher at Frederic-
ton, undeV the superintendence? of the Rev. S. Busby.
His labors were confined chiefly to the country
parts, especially Nashwaak, where his earthly career
terminated. He had been laboring very hard, and
while travelling took a sevei*e cold which, ere he
had reached his home, resulted in a violent fever
He was completely prostrated at once During his
illness, which was not protracted, he gave to Mr.
Busby and others comforting evidence of the posses-
sion of that grace which enables the believer to look
death in the face without dismay. When visited by
Mr. Rice (now Dr. Rice of Ontario), he informed
him that he had been flivored Avith a delightful
revelation of the love of God, so that for some time
he lay exulting in the manifestations of the Divine
fa>or. With composure he conversed with his
wife, — to whom he had been married but one year —
respecting his speedy departure, and in reference to
his worldly matters. Not many hours before his
death he said to Mr. Busby, " The love of God to
me is inexpressible, it is like the rain coming down
from heaven to my soul." To the last he exhorted
his friends to press onward in the way of holiness.
On Thursday, October 6, 1842, in the 36th year of
his age and sixth of his ministry, he departed to be
" forever with the Lord."

WE8LEYAN MISSlONAl^IKS.

lic-

vy
ler
Ind
Ihe
rer
Ihis
Ar.
|;es-
|)ok

'>y

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ime
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ir of

Mr. McMasters was a faithful dispenser of God's
"Word. He loved the work, hence threw into it all
the energies of his strong nature. Though brief,
his ministry was not in vain. His crown will not
be starless. In a funeral sermon by the Rev. G.
Johnson, occasioned by the death of two ministers
within two months — the Rev. P. Sleep and the bro-
ther of whom we write — his remarks on the minis-
terial character of each are worthy of implicit confi-
dence, because of his acquaintance with them. In
using his words I give the singular instead of the
plural number : ; " •

"Mr. McMasters as a mn7i possessed a sound,
healthy constitution, vigorous mind, simplicity of
manners and inflexible integrity. As a Ohi'lsticnif
his conversion was clear and spiritual, his piety deep
and unassuming, and his liie was one of devotion
and consecration to the service of God. As a min-
ister he was called of God to preach the Gospel, was
well acquainted with the great fundamental doctrines
of the Bible ; delivered the truth as it is in Jesus,
with clearness, zeal, ability and success ; was emi-
nently owned of God, and ceased at once to work
and live. As a fellow-laborer, he was kind and
obliging, ever laboring with his colleagues as mem-
bers of one great family, whose? business it was to
contribute to the peace, order, and happiness of the
whole." -r . ^ ,z-.:-

The less of this devoted servant of God from the

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WEBSTER, N.Y. 14S80

(716) 872-4503

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MEMORIALS OF

New Brunswick District was severely felt at the
time, owing to the scarcity of ministers. But the
Lord removes from and calls into the harvest
according to His own will, which is always right.

It is ours to submit, not to murmur.

Thy gifts if we may not detiiin,

Abide with us Life-giver :
Our brethren we shall meet again

Beyond time's flowing river;
There shall the " whole family" remain**

In joy and peace forever.

1i:

REV. ARTHUR McNUTT.

Arthur McNutt was born at Shelburne, Nova
Scotia, in the year 1795. He experienced religion
in his twelfth year, but afterwards declined some-
what from the path of duty, and lost his first love.
He remained for some years in this lukewarm con-
dition, until, during a gracious revival of religion in
Liverpool, he realized a large baptism of the Holy
Spirit, which constrained him to begin at once to
exhort his fellow sinners to repent and seek salva-
tion The Lord graciously owned his labors, caus-

WESLEIAN MISSIONARIES.

the

It the

rvest

right.

iNova
ligion
some-
love,
con-
ion in
Holy
ice to
Isalva-
caus-

ing him to rejoice in the conversion of many souls
through his instrumentality. It thus became evi-
dent to all who were interested in the cause of God
that the ministry was his proper calling. After ex-
ercising his gifts, for some considerable time, as an
itinerating local preacher, he was duly received into
the ranks of the regular ministry, and appointed to
a circuit in 1828. He was among the earliest na-
tive preachers, if not the first, in this 'Province.
Nearly all our first preachers were from Great Bri-
tain. But Methodism, in its operations, is always
successful in obtaining a supply for the ministry
from its members, class leaders and exhorters. So
largely is this case that at present our Conference is
chie% composed of men born in these Colonies,
when the writer entered the work in 1846, a large
majority of our ministers were from the Mother
Country. It is not so at present; only a few of
these veterans remain.

Mr. McXutt entered upon his ministeral duties
with humbling views of his abilities for the great
work. His aim was to glorify God in being an
instrument in His hands for the salvation of sinners,
assured, from the teaching of the Divine Word,
that efforts, however humble, put forth in Jesus*
name, would be crowned with success, and that
success be made known to the planter and the

MEMORIALS OF

II m

waterer, in such a manner as to cause them to feel
that their labor was not in vain i the Lord.

Multitudes in various portions of Nova Scotia
and New Brunswick, still lingering on the shores of
time, have cause to bless the Lord that they ever
heai'd the voice, and greeted the noble form of
Arthur McNutt. Truly, he had souls for his hire ;
and in some places not much else. But a genuine
Gospel minister would rather have the souls with
scanty fare, than abundance without them. Both
are desirable. And when the Chui-ch does its duty,
as promptly as God does his, both will contribute to
the faithful minister's enjoyment.

There was about this brother a Christian manli-
ness and frankness that greatly endeared him to all
who were favored with his acquaintance. His deep-
toned voice, ardent piety, powerful prayers, and
scripture quotations rendered his public services and
discourses awakening, impressive, and comforting.
As he desii-ed and sought after practical results, his
sermons were permeated with evangelical truth.
7 [ere full of plain experimental ideas than of pro-
fovmd metaphysical thought, he was more anxious to
do good than to become an adept at splitting theolo-
gical hairs. High toned in moral principle, he ab-
horred evil in all its forms. Nor was he slow to
reprove and exhort when occasion required. Oir-

iVESLKYA N MISSIONARIES.

feel

5Cotia

Ires of
ever

im of

Ihire ;
luine
with
I Both

jduty,
ite to

lanli-
to all
Ideep-
I, and
Is and
Irting.
js, his
truth,
pro-
ms to
lieolo-
le ab-
low to
Cir-

cumspect, cautious, noble-minded, conscientious, and
deeply devoted to God, we are not surprised that he
was eminently useful. During the five years of his
supernumerary life, he was not inactive, but endea-
vored in every possible way to advance the cause of
Christ. He died, as he lived, happy in the Lord.
Just before his departure, he exclaimed, '' The star
of Bethlehem shines on me now." Thus he passed
away in the 68th year of his age, and 35th year of
his ministry, May 12th, 1864. His mortal remains
rests in the cemetery at Halifax, awaiting the resur-
rection of the just.

" Tl)o real nobility of birth

To pge, maturity, or youth,
The very crown of creature worth,

Is easy, guileless, open truth."

REV. GEORGE MILLAR

George Millar was born in Ireland, in 1788, of
parents who were descendants of the Palp^-aes,
German Protestants, who settled in the county of
Limerick in 1709. Many of these people were
converted to God under the preaching of the Rev.
John Wesley, in connection with his early visits to

mi-

MEMORIALS OP

Ireland. Some of them emigrated from Ireland to
New York in 1766, and were instrumental in estab*
lishing the Methodist Church in America.

Mr. Millar's father was among the first to receive
Mr. Wesley and his coadjutors into his house. The
Lord blessed with spiritual prosperity the families
which thus, in the face of vi olent persecution, ad-
mitted to their circles these eminent preachers of the
Gospel. Brother Millar early in life experienced
that change of heart, and witness of adoption into
the family of God, without which no man is ever
called by the Holy Ghost into the work and office of
the ministry. The influence of the grace thus received
urged him to work for his Divine Master, first as a
class leader, then as a Local preacher, — the ordinary
curriculum of study and preparation in those days
for a Methodist preacher. Admirable prepai'ation —
just as necessary now as it was then. True, it
affixed no A. B. or D. D. to the name ; but the honor
of greatest importance was always realized by the
faithful servants of Christ, even the honor that
Cometh from God.

When a Local preacher, Mr. Millar emigrated to
Nova Scotia, an'd shortly after, in 1817, entered the
itinerant ranks. In those days ministers were truly
itinerants. Some circuits embraced scores of miles,
scattered settlements and bad roads, not suitable for

id to
4tab'

^elve
The

lilies
nd-

If the

Uced
into
ever

ice of

jived

as a

[inary
days

Ion —

le, it

onor

the

that

led to

jdthe

truly

dies,

ile for

"WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

carriage travelling, and if they had been so, there
were in many places neither carriages nor horses.
Mr. Millar, fearless of danger or toil, girded on the
armor, and went forth throughout these Provinces,
proclaiming with energy, fidelity, and less or more
success, the everlasting Gospel. He possessed a
superior mind, — • this, with a retentive memory
well exercised, made him familiar with truth and
error from a variety of sources. His sermons
were well arranged, and carefully studied and pre-
pared. Hence they abounded with Ic^cal argu
ments, earnest appeals, and striking illustrations
frequently drawn from the sublime science of astro
nomy. He did not bring " unbeaten oil " into the
sanctuary. And he was too diligent and high-toned
in moral principle to be a servile plagiarist. If he
borrowed thought from others, as all ministers do,
he expressed it in language of his own, which all
preachers do not. The central truth of the Christian
system, the atonement, always had due prominence
given it in his preaching. His published sermon
on that subject, in the Provincial Magazine for
1842, indicates great grasp of thought, and sound
theological views. It is also elevated in its style,
felicitous in its illustrations, and adapted to do good.
He rightly divided the word of truth.

After becoming a supernumerary he endeared

himself to many friends at Bridgetown by his social
6 *

MBltfORIAtS Ot'

and domestic virtues. Deeply interested in Zion*i»
welfare, he not only prayed, but to the utmost of his
strength labored for its prosperity. No bigot, he"
rejoiced in the progress of truth outside the circle of
his beloved Methddism.^ In fa«t he was too good ai^
Methodist to be a bigot.' As age advanced, infirmi-
ties increased, until the last affliction came. But
this did not shake his confidence in God, or dry up
the fountain of joy. " I have a house above," were
among his last words. In a joyous state of mind
he crossed " the narrow stream of death," on the
14th July, 1869, in the 81st year of his age, and
5^nd of his ministry.

When the tabernacle fell into rttinous (Jecay,
The longing spirit hastened gladly from the house of clay
To the more congenial clime, where the spirits of the just
Watt in never finding prttne tor the unforgotteh dust.

lit

'3T"t

■MA
I

REV. WILLIAM MURRAY.

William Murray, a native of Barnard Castle,
England, was born in the year 1800. He became
a subject of saving grace in early life, and devoted
himself to the work of preaching. He came to this
country and entered the ministry in 1825. His first
circuit, according to the stations in the Missionary
Report, was Westmoreland and Petitcodiac, under
the superintendence of the Rev. S. Bamford. After

WESl.KVA'S nV. ilONATlIES.

lon'sf
his
I, he-
le of

rmi-
IBut

up
rere
lind

the?
and

lay

lust

ili

istle,
jame
roted
this
first
^nary
Inder
iter

tins he occupied in regular succession the following
circuits: — Annapolis, Digby, St. Stephen, Sussex
Vale, Petitcodiac again, Bathurst, and Sheffield. In
1834 Newfoundland became the scene of his laborR.
He had, however, travelled only two circuits there,
when his health «o failed as to obHge ham to desist
from the work. From his last station. Port de Grave,
he sought a restoration of his health by returning to
the place of his birth, and from thence to the West
Indies — but all in vain. His energies were pros-
trated and cotild not he rejuvenated. His name
appears among the supernumeraries at St. John,
N. B., from the year 1837 until his death in 1840.
He was a man of great watchfulness and prayer ;
•ever intent on doing good, a lover of truth and
right, jealous for the honor of God, and anxious to
extend the influences of MethoiHsna, believing it to
be a special work of God for the salvation of men.

His afflictions were protracted and severe. In
the midst of great physical suffering he was called
to endure intense mental grief in the death of his
beloved wife. But he was graciously sustained.
To several of his biaethren he gave most satisfactory
evidence of a well grounded hope in the Divine
Redeemer. His trials were exchanged for the en-
joyments of Paradise on the 16th January, 1840.

" I.et cares like a wild deluge coiriye,
And storms of sorrow foU^
JMay -l but safely reach iiiy home.
My CtOii, my Ilenven, my All."

100

MRMORIAIJ or

!!' l^

EE\. WILLIAM S. SHENSTONK

Among the forty-three ministers who have died
within the bounds of our Conference since 1816,
the mcst youthful in years and ministerial standing
was the Rev William S. Shenstone. He was born
at Three Rivers, Canada East, in the year 1838, and
was the son of one of our early missionaries, who
still lingers on the shores of time, waiting with
patience, among his brethren in Newfoundland, for
the welcome word to call him away to the enjoy-
ments and employment of his sainted son in the
heavenly countiy.

Few men have had a son more amiable and pro-
mising. Seriously inclined from his youth, yet he
needed " the washing of regeneration, and renew-
ing of the Holy Ghost." This he realized in his
sixteenth yeai', and in four years after entered our
ministerial enclosure. Well equipped he went forth
as a soldier of the cross, to do service for Jesus in
this revolted Province of the Most High. The
labors of his third circuit had only commenced, when
he was called to exchange the delightful yet aiduous
work of the Gospel vineyard for the furnace of afflic-
tion. But he found, according to the Divine word,
" grace to help in time of need." His sickness was
brief, — not more than three weeks in duration. T'he

WESLEYAM MISSIONARIES.

101

IE.

died
1816,
inding

born
>8, and
}, who

with
id, for
I enjoy-
in the

|d pro-
ret he
j-enew-
lin his

bd our
It forth
psus in
The
,when
|:duous
afflic-
, word>
Iss was
'Ihe

loving presence of God was with him to the end,
enabling him to rejoice even in the " swellings of
Jordan." He went home in the triumphs of faith,
from the shores of Newfoundland, on the Slst
August, 1861, in the 25th year of his age, and 4th
of his ministry.

His well-developed natural abilities rendered his
services as a preacher very acceptable. The circuits
of Bonavista and Carbonear testify to this effect
He was greatly beloved by the people, and fond
hopes were cherished that he would make an ex-
ceedingly useful minister of Christ. Thoughtful
and studious, he was not content to survey merely
the surface of truth, but sought to penetrate the
inner world of human thought, that he might bring
out of the treasury, in accordance with the will of
the Master, " things new and old.*' No book fs so
full of useful and profound thought as the Bible,
and no man so fit to explore it as the devout Chris-
tian. The pleasing anticipations of the parents were
not fully realized in reference to this young man s
earthly career. But they with him were enabled to

say, " the will of the Lord be done."

'' Blest hour when righteous souls shall meet.

Shall meet to part no more ;
And with celestial welcome greet,

On an iiuinortal shore :
Each tender tie dissolved with pain

With endless bliss is crowned,
All that was dead revives again,

All that was lost is found.**

lOS

MEMORIALS OF

!■•

REV. PE lER SLEEP.

Pbtbr Sleep was born in England in 1804. He
experienced religion there, and for some time dis-
charged the duties of a Local preacher. Shortly
after he came to this country he entered the itin-
erant work, which he performed as diligently and
earnestly as his not robust constitution would allow*
His first circuit (1835) was St. Stephen and St.
David,— both places were then embraced in one
circuit. Next year we find his name on the minutes
for Bathurst. rhe next and three following years he
was at Bridgetown and Aylesford, under the super-
intendence of the Rev. William Temple. In 1840
he became a visiting missionaiy for the New Bruns-
wick District. His next circuit was Sussex Vale.
His labors closed while on the Petitcodiac station.
His last illness was short,, but very painful. In its
midst he realized largely the consolations of Divine
grace. A day or two before his death he dictated
the following letter to a brother minister : —

" Dbar Brother Woop>—

I am now lingering on my beJ of suffering, the effects of
acute inflammation in the 8ton>aek ; and in a few hours I ex-
pect to be an inhabitant of another world 1 was favored
yesterday morning u'ith sueh a proof of my interest in Jesus
that leads me to hope that I shall soon be witli Him."

He departed peacefully from a dilapidated house
to the " building not made with hauds^" on the Bxh

WESLETAM MIS8IONAU1E8.

108

Idis-

rtly

Itin-

and

low*

St.

one
lutes
rshe
per-
1840
luns-

ale.

tion.

its

Ivine

ited

day of August. 184^, in the d8th year of his age^
and eighth of his ministry.

Mr. Sleep was a ve^.^ holy man. Not famed as a
profound thinker, or very eloquent preacher ; yet
he was the means of bringing many sinners to God.
An unusual amount of awakening and sanctifying
power attended his pulpit ministrations. He took
an active part in some of the first protracted meet-
ings in the Provinces. The living fruits of his
devout ministry are still found among us, though the
greater number, like himself, have gone to try the
realities of eternity. All along the valley of Anna-
polis the name of Poster Sleep, among the more aged
members of our church, is still fragrant with sacred
memories of times of refreshing connected with his
ministry. It is also probably the same wherever he
labored, but we speak that which we know.

— •• Can that man be dead
Whose spirilual influence is upon his kind?
He lives in glory ; and his speaking dust
Has more of life than half its breathing moulds."

its of
11 ex-
Ivor eti
IJcsus

to use
8tU

REV. WILLIAM SMITHSON.

William Smithson was a native of Yorkshire,
England, and began his earthly career in 1797, He
sought and obtained the fovor of God when nine-
teen years of age. Shortly afterwards he began to

104

MEMORIALS OP

m pr-'i-

exhort sinners to seek the Lord. Having given
satisfactory proof of his call to the ministry while
exercising his talents as a Local preacher, he was in
1825 received as a candidate into the ranks of the
itinerants. After laboring fcT a time in the Shet-
land Islands, he was sent out as a Missionary to
New Brunswick. From that time, 1827, to the end
of life on earth, he discharged with great efficiency
the duties of a Methodist preacher in these colonies.
Most of his ministerial life was spent in New Bruns-
wick* He occupied successively at least ten circuits
in what was then the New Brunswick District ; some
of them the second time. Hie last circuit was New-
port, N. S. He became a supernumeraiy in 1865>
and took up his residence at Fredericton. He still
toiled in the vineyard to the utmost of his ability.
Activity was more congenial to his mind than rest.
He was employed in the work he loved so well until
his latest hour. His last public exercises were at a
prayer meeting in the Wesleyan church. He had
just closed the service in the usual way, and, while
in the act of put .ing on his overcoat, was seized with
paralysis, never spake again, and died the next
morrmg. Thus gloriously went home to God, the
amiable, earnest, pious, and useful William Smith-
son, in the 69th year of his age, and 4 1st of his
ministry.

The minutes of Conference for 1866, in a brief

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

106

iveh

rhile

the

ghet-
to

end

mcy
Inies.
[uns-
Icuits

jome

[ew-

I865i

still

fility.

rest.

I until

at a

had
rhile
with
next
[, the

lith-
>f his

brief

record respecting his ministerial character, state that
f* He was eminently distinguished for catholicity of
spirit, for great singleness of purpose, and for un-
wearied zeal in the cause of God." His energetic
mind influenced not only his speech, but all his
movements. He was full of Methodistic, Yorkshire
fire, yet gentle, sympathizing, and Christ-like. A
good specimen of Christian cheerfulness ; morose-
ness and grumbling found no place within the circle
of his soul's genial influence. He was not puflSsd
up, but conscious of many imperfections, as his
utterances at Conference Love feasts testiiftcd ; but
he was more intent on looking to Jesus than in look-
ing at himself. The popularity of some of his
brethren did not awaken feelings of jealousy in his
mind. He rejoiced in the conversion of sinners,
and the edification of behevers, thi'ough any instru-
mentality ; regarding ever the instrument as of less
import mce than the work effected.

His sermons, though not remarkable for enchant-
ing displays of rhetoric, or profound intellectual
creations of thought, were rich in experimental and
practical ideas, well adapted to promote the objects
contemplated by every Gospel minister. They were
not mere skeletons, but well clothed with meat, and,
when digested, were found to abound with the mar-
row of the Gospel.

He attended well to the interests of his circuits,

106

MEMORIAIiS OF

and sometimes, when officials neglected their duty
in gathering the tithes, he submitted reluctantly to
perform the work himself. This is an imposition
on any minister. Yet many must do it, or suffer
serious inconvenience.

There was much truth as well as humor, and also
useful lessons for some of our people, in an anecdote
that went the rounds of religious papers not long
since. A minister in the States, whose people inti-
mated to him that they were about to raise his salary
from four hundred to five hundred dollars, objected
to the proposal, giving as his reason that, as he was
in the habit of collecting his own salary, judging
from past difficulties in so doing, he feaied that to
collect an additional hundred dollars would kill hiLi

outright.

*' Prayer is the Christian's vital breath,
The Christian's native air,
His watchword at the gates of deaths
He enterg Heaven with prayer."

i !»;

REV. WILLIAM SMITH.

William Smith was born in Bingham, Notting-
hamshire, England, in 1801. In early life fatherless,
yet he was cared for by a truly excellent mother,
who not only sought after his physical and intellec-
tual welfare, but endeavored to instil into his open -
*ng mind the great truths of the Bible bearing on

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

107

self-respect, virtuous thought, and religious fidelity.
Nor were her prayerful efforts m vain. She expect-
ed and realized the fulfilment of the gracious prom-
ise of Jehovah to faithful parents, " I will pour my
spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thy off-
spring." While yet in the years of boyhood he was
brought into fellowship with the Redeemer, and with
the Wesleyan branch of His Church. Very studi-
ous and successful in acquiring knowledge, he began
to exercise his gifts, in connection with the church
of his choice, to the profit and satisfaction of those
who came within the range of his influence. In
the usual way accepted as a candidate for the min-
istry, and willing to be employed wherever sent, he
was appointed as a missionary to Nova Scotia in
1827. In these Provinces for 36 years he travelled
some of our most important circuits, and filled our
pulpits with acceptance and spiritual profit. He
was a profound thinker ; most extensive, yet careful
reader, and an able theologian. At first sight to a
stranger there was nothing about him very prepos-
sessing as regards outward appearance, but even a
slight acquaintance would impress the mind of an
intelligent man with the fact that his mental nature
was of a superior order, and that his attainments in
general knowledge were more than ordinary. "We
have rarely met with any who excelled him in quot-
ing correctly the words of Scripture. Though con-

108

MEMORlATii OF

■Ki;

versant with many books, he was, as every preacher
should be, more familiar with the Bible. His ser-
mons, well studied, were good specimens of evan-
gelical preaching, not brilliant oratorical flourishes
and sentimental phrases, out luminous with rays of
truth from the Sun of Righteousness. And yet, be-
cause of a somewhat defective delivery, they were
not as attractive or popular as those of some men
of smaller mental calibre, but more abundant words.
At the United District Meeting at Sackville, in 1847,
Mr. Smith preached before many of his brethren, in
a large room of the Academy, a powerful sermon
from the text " For God hath not appointed us to
wrath, &c." That sermon was blessed, we had rea-
son to believe, to the conversion of at least one soul,
— a rare occurrence (I regret to say) at our minis-
terial convocations.

Some men have the faculty of exhibiting their
mental possessions to the best advantage ; they shine
with a very little light, their knowledge comes very
rapidly from even the depths of their natures, as it
has but a 6hort distance to travel. They are speed-
ily known and read of all men. Soon exhaused,
the supply is kept up by careless plagiarism, or
wearisome repetition. Mr. Smith was not one of
this kind ; in him there was more hidden than
revealed. He was well acquainted with human
nature, and with experimental godliness. His

WESLEY AN MISSIONARIES.

109

3her

ser-
fcvan-
bshes
lysof
t,be-
Iwere

men
lords.
l847,
fn, in

rmon

IS to
rea-

I soul,

linis-

prayers indicated his fellowship with God. Many
of these remarkable outpourings of soul will long
be remembered with gratitude to God. Some men
probably accomplish more upon their kiiees than in
any other attitude. These, however, do not gen-
erally receive on earth th<? credit they deserve, but
Je.sus, the Judge, wiil place the crown on the right
head. Our brother closed his missionary career
without realizing the peculiar trials of a super-
numerary, or a lingering illness. Suddenly the
message came, and suddenly he removed from the
field of toil to the land of rest, in the 62nd year of

his age, and 36th of his ministry.

*'' There is no death ! What seems so is transition *,
This life of mortal breath
Is but the suburb of the life elysian,
Whose portal we call death."

their
Ishine

very

as it
Ipeed-
^used,
iu, or

le of

than

luman

His

-I -^ ii\mMl

REV. JOHN SNOWbaLL.

John Snowball was bom in Yorkshire, England,
September 2, 1784. His parents endeavored to
bring him up in the fear of God, in accordance with
the teaching of the established Church. Ill verf^
early life he was often deeply impressed with eternal
things, which led him to form good resolutions,
which, howeter, w^re disregarded ; again renewed

MEMORIAL OF

il!

i^i"

IB^^Br '

MN^^K '

iBHHi.

under the influence of affliction, and again forgotten
when the season of trial was past. At length he
began to attend Wesieyan preaching, when his con-
victions deepened, and he commenced to seek the
Lord in good earnest. Nor did he seek in vain.
The blessing came, — a conscious pardon, filling his
soul with joy unutterable. He now took great de-
light in attending class meeting, the exercises of
which he found to be in unison with the promptings
of the new nature. He was thus strengthened for
duty and conflict And trials came, — persecution
from dear ones, whose knowledge of Divine things
was not sufficient to enable them to appreciate his
experience, or sanction his practice of praying and
speaking in public. But he read his Bible, and
prayed three or f<)ur times a day, and carefully
eschewed evil, so that he was not " moved away from
the hope of the Gospel." Continuing to grow in
grace and knowledge, he soon was found working
for God in the capacity of a Local preacher on the
Thirsk Circuit. Shortly after this he came to this
country in order to engage in worldly business.
But the people of God, perceiving his abilities for
usefulness in the Church, encouraged him to yield to
convictions, which he had felt for some years before
in reference to the work of the ministry. He was
received as a probationer for the work, at the District
meeting held at Hali^ in 18 18k Between that

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

Ill

le-
of

LIS
id

Itn
lin

le
lis

lor
to
Ire
las

jet

time and 1837 he occupied the following circuits
in Nova Scotia: — Annapolis, Yarmouth, Remsheg
(Wallace), Newport, Parrsboro', Horton, Sydney,
and two in P. E. Island. I^rom 18a7 until 1852
he labored in Newfoundland, and from that until
he became a supernumerary, in 1863, chiefly in
New Brunswick. His nine years of supernumerary
life were spent in Sackville, N. B.

Mr. Snowball was eminently successful in for-
warding the cause of God in its various departments
during his whole ministerial career. He had a
large share of good sense, and was an excellent ad-
viser. He apprehended the bearing of a subject
very readily, and though sometimes his opinions
differed from those of some of his brethren, it was
generally found afterwards that he was right. He
was an excellent economizer, both for himself and
for the circuits on which he was stationed. Many
of these he found burdened with debt, but by his
tact and frequent liberality the incubus was re-
moved. He was always careful in obeying the
Apostolic precept, " Owe no man anything ;" and
the equally important rule of our Society, **not
taking up goods without a probability of paying for
them." Everywhere he cherished and encouraged
habits of industry and improvement, both mental
and moral. His interest in our Sackville institu-

^Ml

tions is well known.

Nor was he content with

\
•

rf*

„

112

MEMORIAIi) OF

prosperity in reference to the temporal affairs of the
Church, — he sought in every possible way to bring
sinners to God, and he was successful. Hundreds,
by his faithful words and earnest prayers, in and out
of the pulpit, were brought to the knowledge of the
truth. He had a high appreciation of our standard
works on theology, and endeavored to scatter them
everywhere.

If he lacked some of the essentials of the highest
style of pulpit oratory, neither himself nor the
Church had cause to regret it, as he had those men-
tal and moral endowments which fitted him for the
accomplishment of a vast amount of good. His last
illness was brief, and his departure sudden. He
was ready and willing to go. He left dear ones on
earth for dearer ones in heaven, on the 13th Sep-
tember, 1871, in the 87th year of his age and fifty-

' nd of his ministry.

No more on earth yv'Uh pleasing smile,

And kindly word he'll greet us,
But calmly wait the " little while,"

On the other side he'll meet us.

KEV JOHN B. STRONG.

John B. Stuong was born in Bingham, Notting-
hamshire, England, in 1789. After a clear con-
version he felt impelled by the convictions of the

WEdLteYAl^ klSSlOtCARIES.

ll«

Divine Spirit to engage in the arduous duties of
the Wesleyan ministry, which he entered in the
year 1813. In 1814 he came out as a missionary
to Canada. His station was Quebec, being the
first minister appointed ^here by the British Con-
ference. His next circuit was Montreal. He
remained not long in Canada, but came to Nov^
Scotia, where he was rendered a great blessing to
many of our most important circuits With the ex-
ception of a short period in England, his days were
spent in the Maritime Provinces, particularly in
P. E. Island. After becoming a supernumerary in
1850, he was not idle, but preached almost as often
as some in the effective work. Still he was incapa-
citated for circuit duties on account of dullness in
hearing. His last days were spent chiefly in P. E.
Island, among his affectionate and pious children.
Most of his soiis are active, useful Local preachers.
Here the evening shades of life gathered around
him, but the abundant grace of God was realized to
the end. He died calmly reposing in the blood of
atonement, on the 16th May, 1870, in the eightieth
year of his age, and fifty-seventh of his ministry .

Mr. Strong was a real Englishman, thoroughly
Methodistic, a beautiful singer, a popular preacher,
and a successful pastor ; surpassed by none, and
equalled by few missionaries in these Provinces.
An intimate personal acquaintance, first in his own

■'I

Ill

MEMORIALS OF

, I

Island home, and subsequently in Fredericton and
other places, greatly endeared him to the writer.
Capable of that eminent virtue, real friendshipi he
won the esteem and affectionate regard of all his
brethren. Lofty in Christian purpose, and single
in aim, he excelled in accomplishing the sublime
objects of the ministry of reconciliation. A finer
exhibition of uniform integrity, ministerial fidelity,
and brotherly regard I have never seen than was
given to the Church and to the world in the life and
labors of this brother.

His sermons were evidently well studied, and fre-
quently written out at full length, then caiefully put
away in the secret chambers of a most tenacious
memory. A distinct utterance, mellow voice, well
chosen words full of evangelical meaning, rendered
his preaching welcome in all our pulpits. Many
stai's will adorn his crown of rejoicing in the day of
the Lord Jesus. He was eminently adapted physi-
cally for an itinerant ; a small body, but admirably
put together, enclosed a large heart and well-bal-
aaced intellect. He had more good sense than
genius, was better at compiling than at originating
thought, and more anxious tc ave souls than to win
popular applause.

In his early ministry he was emphatically an itin-
erant, travelling chiefly on horseback. He was not
only morally but physically upright, especially when
placed on the back of a noble stee-l, and he never

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

115

kept any other kind. He has often said that if there
should be a resurrection of the brute creation, he
would not be ashamed to face any of the quadru-
peds that had carried him over the rugged mission
field. It is probable that some brethren are glad to
believe that such a doctrine is not true. A minister
whose circuit extended from Sackville, N. B., to
Wallace, N. S., must have driven many long jour-
neys, and required a powerful animal to accomplish
the work. Mr. Strong could do it without injury
to his horse.

At the time of his peaceful death this venerable
man of God was the oldest minister in the Conference
of Eastern British America, yet he was able only two
years before, at the Conference in Charlottelown, to
give his younger brethren most excellent advice, in
the form of an effective speech on the temperance
and tobacco question Few, even among ministers,
can truthfully say with our aged brother ** Forty
years « teetotaler J*^ -^

But his work on earth is done. It was well done.
No more on this planet shall we listen to those mel-
low tones, powerful and soothing, which once filled
our largest Qhurches with music, ** sweet music."
He has joined the heavenly choir, where he shall
continue to sing * While immortality endures."

" We shall meet again , dear brother,
Happy on the other shore;
We Himll surely know each other»
Better than in days of jore."

Mi;

11«

KtlZMORIATfl OP

REV. JOSEPH SUTCIIFFE.

Joseph Sutcliffe was a native of Yorkshire,
England. He was led to give himself to Jesus and
His cause through the instrumentality of the Rer. J.
Roadhouse. This important event took place in
early life. Surrounded by Methodistic influences
and privileges, and evidently possessing gifts for
usefulness in the Church, he was soon called forth
into the field of toil, — first as a Sabbath-school
teacher, — noble work, worthy of the best hearts and
wisest heads, — then as a prayer leader, — blessed
employment, — then as a Local preacher, in which
office he particularly excelled. For more than
twenty years he thus exercised his gifts and grace,
with much acceptance and profif to those to whom .
he ministered in holy things.

Coming to Nova Scotia in 1855, when ministerial
help was much needed, he was, though more than
forty years of age, received as a candidate for the
regular ministry. For ten years he performed the
duties of a Methodist preacher on some of our most
extensive and laborious circuits. These were as
follows : Middle Musquodoboit, Guysboro', Ship
Harbor, Hants Harbor, (N. F.) Nashwaak and
Greenwich. ()*' • t* last named circuit the expo

WKrtLETAN M138IONAH1ES.

117

r.J.

in
ices

for
)rth

LOol

land
}sed
dch
than
race,
Lom

jrial
than
the
the
lost
as
>hip
and

«ure incident on long journeys was too much for his
not robust constitution. He was compelled to
become a supernumerary, and before the year had
closed his earthly career was ended.

In the pulpit brother SutclifFe was not as ener-
getic as some preachers, but his sermons were
freighted with sound Methodist doctrine, quite in
accordance with New Testament theology. He was
rather a good sermonizer, — more practical than the-
oretical,— ^more pointed than welcome sometimes, —
more substance than fancy, he aimed to please God,
not to tickle the ears of his hearers with witty say-
ings. In fine, there was too much of the old Metho-
dist style in his sermons to elicit popular applause
in our day.

Less fond of complaining than some who have
less cause to do so, he persued the even tenor of his
way amid many discouragements. His last illness
was very painful and protracted. But in all u©
acquiesced in the Divine will, and a short time be-
fore his death, intimated that he was happy in the
love of God. He passed away to the " land of
rest," on Sept. 30th, 1867, in the 55th year of his
age, and tenth cf his ministry.

** Earth's pleasures and sorrows forever farewell*
I hasten vrith Jeeus and angels to dvecU. '

LPO

118

MBMORlAT.fi OF

>||«B

■

fl^^^pl

If WSm

REV. ALFRED W. TURNER

Alfred W. Tuhner, son of the Rev. George
Turner of England, was born in the year 1838.
His parents being Wesleyanc he was given early to
God in baptism, nnd by subsequent training devoted
to His blessed service. When quite youthful his
ardent thirst fur knowledge was largely gratified by
the superior advantages of Woodhouse Grove school,
where he studied for seven years, the last year of
the 8ev<^n being gra.itcd because of the high moral
position be attained, and for diligence and success in
literary studies. The beneficial results of the wise
training there received were pleasingly manifested
duiing the whole period of his life on earth. Hav-
ing tasted that the Lord is gracious, he was divinely
prompted to publish that grace to his fellow men.
Recommended to thio Conference by the Ne\vfound-
land district, he became a candidate for our work in
the 22nd year of his age. Having honorably passed
through the probationary years, he was ordained at
Sackville in 1864. He discharged the onerous and
responsible duties of the ministry with great accept-
ance in Trinity, Exploits, and St. John's, Newfound-
land, when he was appointed to Halifax, South.
Here it soon became evident to all that he was a

WRSLETAN MISSICNARIE3.

119

jorge
[838.
[ly to
roted
ilhis
jdbv
[hool,
;ar of

loral
jss in

wise
fested

Hav-
^inely

voten.

>und-
)rk ill
)assed
bed at
IS and

jcept-
[bund-
Eouth.

was a

worlcman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly
dividing the word ,of truth.

To the Sabbath school he devoted special and
prayerful attention, ever impressed with the import-
ance of that department of chiistian effort. His
addresses there, as well as sermons generally, were
models of neatness, beautiful in diction, well steeped
in prayer, and pei'n^eated with Gospel truth. They
were remarkable, not for startling out-bursts of elo-
quence, but for their vehement simplicity. One
regret only was felt in listening to his well arranged
thoughts and unctuous sentences, — the evident
weakness of his vocal powers,. The tax necessarily
laid upon his voice by the large churches of Halifax
was too much for his consumptive nature. He soon
fell a victim to pulmonary disease.

Brother Turner possessed an unusually well-
balanced and fertile mind, stored with various know-
ledge of nature and human nature. Yet he was
very unassuming and docile. Great minds, well
cultured, generally make less noise and preten-
sions to greatness than those of superficial attain-
ments. In order to know and appreciate the vari-
ous excellencies of his mental and moral nature,
intimate acquaintance was necessary. His domestic
enclosure was a happy place, because of the con-
stant and pervading influence of a high-toned piety.

No acidity of temper soured the sweetness of the

120

MEMORlA}^ OP

home circle. The voice of his actions, nerer im-
paired by serious defect, proclaimed more loudly
than his voice in the pulpit the power of saving
gmce. Like his sermons, his whole character was
beautifully symmetrical. For the last eighteen
months of his life he suffered much, but was kept
in perfect peace. He died as he lived, in the favor
of God, a sinner saved by grace, in the 33rd year of

his age ana eleventh of his ministry.

Too fragile for the autumnal blast)

Or piercing cold of winter ;
Beyond the climes of earth he passed,

The heavenly home to enter.
Not sickly there, robust and strong,

With spiritual endowments ;
Few louder sing redemption's song,

Or drink in more enjoyments.

REV. WILLIAM WEBB.

William Webb, from England, in early life
experienced the converting grace of God. Under
the influence of the Spirit, which he received
when adopted into the family of God, he was not
only enabled tocry, Abbi, Father, but powerfully
convinced that he ought to cry to the fallen race of
man, ** Come to the living waters, come," he found
his way, not by nature, but by impelling grace to
thti sacred desk. He was sent out as a Missionary

tlr

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

121

life
ider
lived
not
rally
le of
)und
je to
Inary

to Nova Scotia in 1827, and attended to his minis-
terial duties with commendable zeal and encourag-
ing success. He travelled many circuits in Nova Scotia,
Cape Breton, and P. E. Island, and often witnessed
great revivals in the course of his ministry, — the
best evidence, doubtless, of being in the line of
apostolical succession. " The seal of mine apostle-
ship are ye in the Lord." Perhaps in no place
where he travelled was there a more genuine and
extensive work of God than on the Lunenburg cir-
cuit in 1841 and 1842. The results of that glo-
rious revival are still seen in the membership of our
church in that region of country. Many, however,
have gone to the heavenly home to greet once more
the instrument of their salvation. His name is still
dear to many in that circuit. His faithful ministry
extended over a period of twenty years, when he
was stricken down with disease, while yet in the
possession of all the energies of manhood. This
occurrec^; while he occupied the Charlottetown cir-
cuit. Happy in *the prospect of death, he was
enabled to say with unwavering confidence, " I am
standing on the rock ; I have not believed in cun-
ningly devised fables ; but I feel the power of the
Lord." This testimony he gave in the presence of
a clergyman of the Church of England, his iVIetho-
dist brethren being absent, attending a United Dis-
trict Meeting at Sackville, N. B. While his dear
6

122 MEMORIAl^ or

i ■

ones and pious friends were in prayer commending
him to God, he gently fell asleep in Jesus. This
occurred July 4th, 1847, in the 44th year of his
age, and 20th of his ministry.

His moral excellencies were many, — not without,
but in connection with the exercise of living faith in
the Divine Redeemer. There are no morals like
those which spring from faith in Jesus. He was a
true friend, cheerful Christian, kind husband, affec-
tionate father, devoted pastor, and an excellent
preacher, as the writer can testify from experience.
Memory yet retains with distinctness the leading
truths embodied in a sermon he preached at Amherst,
on Paul's reasoning before Felix. It was a most
impressive, searching, and earnest discourse. Preach-
ing like that cannot be in vain. It is not often we
behold, even in the ministry, a man of so many in-
tellectual ttnd official virtues. Affiible in conversa-
tion, with a genial disposition, serious manner, and
intent on doing good, we are not surprised to learn
that he was greatly beloved by his .own people, and
highly esteemed as a man and a Christian minister by
other denominations. He intelligently sought to
advance the interests of Methodism, assured that it
was the work of God in the earth, pre-eminently
adapted to spread scriptural holiness over the land.
He strongly denounced those Antinomian errors that
ive still doing much mischief in the churches. '1 he

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

123

necessity of continuance in sin is heard in many
pulpits in our day. Our departed brother dehghted
in presenting before his hearers the truthful doctrine
of a present^ free, and full salvation.

EEV JESSE WHEELOCK.

Je^«se Wheelock was a native of Nova Scotia,
and born in Annapolis county on the 15th Septr.,
1811. Having lost his father when quite young,
he was carefully watched over with tender sohcitude
by a kind mother. In his seventeenth ye ir he left
home to reside with a brother at Bridgetown.
Shortly after he became a teacher in the Wesleyan
Sabbath-school. It was in connection with the
duties of that office that he became solemnly im-
pressed with the necessity of experimental religion.
Soon were his footsteps directed to a class meeting,
where he found that others had been influenced as
he was, with a sense of sin and an ardent desire for
salvation. For months he continued a seeker. But
in 1832, while at Aylesford, he obtained a clear
evidence of his acceptance with God. Following
the leadings of the Divine Spirit, he began to assist

MEMORIALS OF

in holding meetings for prayer and exhortation.
While thus engaged his convictions became strong
and abiding that the Head of the Church desired
him to give himself wholly to the work of the min-
istry. In 1836 he was led providentially to Liver-
pool, N. S., and became associated with that devoted
man of God, the Rev. Matthew Cranswick. He
had not been long preaching when, becoming con-
vinced that the doctrine of entire sanctification, as
preached by the Methodists, was the doctrine of the
New Testament, he earnestly sought, and by faith
obtained, this pearl of great price. After this, in
Shubenacadie and Truro, he pursued with great
diligence and success the work he loved more than
life.

But soon his health began to fail, and his friendt
advised him to try for a time a residence in
a tropical climate. Accordingly he embarked at
Halifax for Grenada on the 27th December, 1838.
He reached the Island after a prosperous voyage,
and remained there until the 10th April following,
when he returned to his native land. His health
had so much improved that it was thought he might
again enter upon circuit work. He was forthwith
appointed to the beautiful ana flourishing town of
Yarmouth. But on commencing his labors he
soon found that he was utterly unable to continue in
the vineyard,, and with great reluctance, with the

WESLETAN MISSIONARIES.

126

rtation.
1 strong
hesired
le min-
Liver-
levoted
He
ig con-
Ion, as
lof the
faith
lis, in
great
le than

triendo
ice in
ted at
1838.
>yage>
)wing,
lealth
[might
Ihwith
iwn of
:s he
luc in
the

advice of his brethren, left the circuit and spent a
few weeks with his dear friends in Liverpool. As
winter approached he resolved to try again the
climate of the West Indies. He sailed from Liver-
pool on the 9th November, 1839, and arrived at
Antigua on the 4th December of the same year.
After five months' sojourn among Methodist fiiends
on the Island he sailed for Londonderry, Ireland.
His tarrying there was short, for rapidly declining
health urged him to hasten home to die. On the
7th September, 1840, he arrived once more at
Bridgetown. Still anxious, if possible, to regain
health, he spent the winter in Boston, but was ob-
liged to return in May to his friends in Nova Scotia,
where he continued to live in weakness and much
suffering until May, 1841, when, after uttering the
Saviour's consoling declaration, " I will come again
and receive you," &c., he gently fell asleep in Jesus.

Mr. Wheelock was eminent for true devotion to
God, ardent love for souls, tenderness of conscience,
amiability of disposition, and the grace of humility.
In his spirit and life, religion appeared in its loveliest
character. His brief ministry, mingled with much
physical infirmity, was not in vain.

The writer has often heard, on the Maitland and
Truro circuits, most delightful testimonies respecting
the remarkable heavenly-mindedness, and fervent
devotion of brother Wheelock. He was too lovely

ii'i-

{14

V;; |;i

BB:

126

MEMORIAIil OF

and fragile for the storms and turmoil of earth. The
Lord took him to a more beauteous and healthy clime.

*' Asleep in Jesus! 0, how sweet
To be for such a slumber meet!
With holy confidence to sing,
That death hath lost its cruel sting."

REV. RICHARD WILLIAMS.

Richard Williams, a native of England, wa»
born in the year 1789. Baptized in infancy, nur-
tured and educated in connection with the Esta-
blished Church, he always esteemed and loved that
branch of the Church of Christ. Nor did he ab^
jure its creed in becoming a Methodist. But he
felt it his duty to connect himself with the people
under whose ministry he was brought to God. —
This event took place in his sixteenth year. No
parental or scholastic training produces an effect
upon the mind of man equal to that of the con-
verting grace of God. Grace in its operations is
stronger than nature. Yes, if one or the other
must go, the child of God says, let me have Jesus
if my deai'est earthly friend must go. Those who
feel this grace marvel not that the whole course

rhe

ime.

WE8LB7AM HlfiSIONARIES.

r^'

I was

Lur-

■sta-

Ithat

at>-

)ple

L«

No
tffect
Icon-
is is
ither
(esus
wlio»
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of life is often changed by its influence. It was
so in Mr. Williams' case. Gradually drawn into
the work as a prayer and class leader, it became
evident to the church that he was adapted to the
ministry. For a few years he exercised his gifts
as a Local preacher. But in the year 1813, under
the direction of the sainted Jonathan Udmondson,
then chairman of the Portsmouth district, he was
introduced into the regular ministry. In 1815,
having offered himself as a missionary, he was sent
out to Quebec. He was the second preacher sent
out by the British Conference to Canada. There
were, besides himself, only two other preachers in
Canada acting under the direction of the English
Conference at that time, — ^the Kev. John B. Strong,
Montreal, and the Rev. John DePutron, French
Missionary. But the Episcopal Methodists had
twelve ministers in the field, — seven in the Upper
Canada district, and five in Lower Canada.

After spending ten yeai'S in Canada, Mr. Wil-
liams was appointed to St. John, N. B. A firm
and judicious man* was just then required there to
build up the cause, which had been recently almost
shattered to pieces by the serious defection of one
of our ministers. The society under Mr. Williams'
superintendence soon realized prosperity, and a fresh
impetus was given to Methodism in that city, which
has scarcely waned since that period. " Let him

ICS

MEMORIALS OV

that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he Ml."
Total abstinence from all intoxicating drinks would
have saved many a minister from dishonor and
eternal infamy !

Feeling, as ministers must feel at times, a strong
desire to see the land of his birth, and the friends
of early days ; Mr. W. returned home, and spent
two years in the Cornwall district. Twenty-seven
years had greatly changed the aspect of society, so
that he preferred the mission field to the home work.
His first circuit on his return was Fredericton, N. B.
Thence he was sent to St. John's, Newfoundland,
where he discharged the duties of chairman of the
district for a few years. The same office he had
filled previously in New Brunswick. He became a
supernumerary in 1852, and resided in Bridgetown
until his death

He was thoroughly English, and Methodistic in
his predilections. " Unmoved by threatening or re-
ward," decision sat upon his brow. Neither the
face of clay, nor the presence of the devil, could
divest him from his purpose OT change his mind
when he thought he was right. And though at
times his brethren considered him unyielding and
stern, they afterwards saw that he was right. Suffice
it to say of his preaching that it was Methodistic in
sentiment, expository in style, and generally attend-
ed with the unctiou from above. He constantly

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

129

gave great prominence to the important doctrines of
total depravity, justification by faith, and scrip-
tural holiness. He was intimately acquainted with
the whole system of Methodism, both in reference
to doctrine and discipline. And while not ignorant
of, or unwilling to acknowledge the excellencies of
other theological systems, he greatly preferred Me-
thodism. In life he often expressed a desire to labor
as long as he lived, — the desire was granted He
preached on Sabbath, near Bridgetown, on July 27,
1856, and on the following Friday, August 1st, in
the 67th year of his age, and the 44th of his minis-
try, he ceased to live on earth.

The morningr came and the noontide bright,

And the twilight grey of even ;
He soar'd from earth, 'midst the shades of night,

To the ceaseless day of hearen.

REV. WILLIAM WILSON.

William Wilson was bom in London, England,
in 1799. In his sixteenth year he was brought to
the knowledge of the truth through the instrumen-
tality of Methodist preaching. Though baptized and
confirmed in the English Church, he at once connect-
ed himself with the people who had been the means

ISO

MKM0R1AIA OF

of bringing him to Jesus. It is not always ond and the
same thing to be in fellowship with the Church, and
to be united by faith to the Lord Jesus. For some
time after his conversion he enjoyed the privilege
of meeting in a class led by that model class leader.
Father Reeves, whose interesting memoir many in
this conference have read.

After giving satisfactory proofs of the possession
of grace, gifts, and fruit, he was accepted as a minis-
ter by the British Conference, and sent out as a
missionary to Newfoundland in 1820. Diligently,
and with encouraging success, he toiled for fourteen
years in that island. Capable of much endurance,
his energies were all taxed in that rugged mission
field. In 1834 he came to the Upper Provinces,
where the remainder of his days were spent.

Healthful in appearance, buoyant in spirits, his
elastic step indicated the superior elasticity of his
mind. Ambitious to excel, he carefully observed the
important advice of the wise man, " Buy the truth
and sell it not." Having separated himself, at the
call of Jesus, from all merely secular pursuits, he
sought, " and intermeddled with all wisdom." At
home in theology, well read in astronomy, acquaint-
ed with the science of music, a respectable linguist,
clear thinker, and ready writer, it is not matter of
t7onder that he excelled in imparting instruction to
others.

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

131

His sermons were well arranged, full of instruc-
tive matter, and, though largely illustrated by
historical and scientific references, always contained
a considerable portion of the marrow of the Gospel.
Notwithstanding the absence of a sonorous voice,
his preaching was attractive, because of the unusual
amount of important truth in every sermon. Some
preachers would become exceedingly popular with
half the amount of useful knowledge Mr. Wilson
possessed. He used words, not merely as ornaments
to his discourses, but as vehicles of thought. His
varied attainments (chiefly by self-effort) and readi-
ness to communicate knowledge rendered him ex-
ceedingly useful to young men having the ministry
in view. Not a few of • preachers are ready with
the writer to express tl ' indebtedness to our de-
parted brother.

He abhorred intensely all new-fengled notions in
religion, and ever kept close to the standards of
Methodism in doctrine and discipline. He loved
Methodism because he believed it to be primitive
Christianity. He was usefu} everywhere in check-
ing error and in establishing truth. The people under
his charge were well indoctrinated. Very clear,
because well-informed, on the much disputed
subject of baptism, he was instrumental in convin-
ing many and confirming them in the truth that
immersion is not es^^utial to Christian baptism.

132

MEMORIATJS OF

He was very useful in preparing the soil, sowing the
seed and plucking up the weeds, — but not as suc-
cessful as some others in realizing the increase. Of
his immediate successors it could be said with
special applicf-'.tion, " Other men labored, and ye are
entered into their labors,"

By his fertile pen he also tjndeavored to edify the
Church and defend the truth. His controversial
writings exhibit much research, logical power, and
careful preparation. Some of his other writings
indicate more than ordinary ability in presenting his-
torical facts and gospel themes. Intimate acquaint-
ance with Mr. Wilson for twenty-three years enables
the writer to speak of him with confidence. A warm-
hearted Methodist, with strong social instincts, full
of kindness, geniai, pleasant, and affable, it is not
cause of marvel that he was the life of the social
circle. If at times he seemed to approach very near
the line that divides the serious from the trifling, we
have but to remember that all men have their fail-
ings. And let us also bear in mind that some men,
because of their natural disposition, seem very seri-
ous with but little grace ; while others with more
grace seem almost triflers. **But why dost thou
judge thy brother ? "

In the fiftieth year of his ministry he seemed not
to lose that activity for which he had been remark-
able from his youth. As cheerful and punctual to

WESLEY AN MISSIONARIES.

133

)f
Ith
re

his appointments as ever, he was found on the Sab-
bath of his death, at his post, proclaiming the glori-
ous Gospel. After preaching in the afternoon four
miles from home, and while returning alone in his
carriage, the heavenly messengers came, and wafted
his spirit home to God. The unusual position of
the body in the carriage attracted the attention of
some living near the road, who, on coming to ascer-
tain the cause, found that the spirit was gone.
Thus suddenly was he removed from earth — in the
seventieth year of his age, and fiftieth of his ministry.
It is worthy of record, as a very unusual occur-
rence, that during the half century of his ministerial
cai'eer not a Sabb.^th was lost by illness ! Few men
sojourn on earth three score years and ten so com-
pletely exempt from physical infirmity.

*♦ How beautiful it is for man to die :
Upon the walls of Zion to be called,
Like a watch-worn and weary sentinel,
To put his armor oflf and rest in heaven."

fi-
re

REV. JOHN WINTERBOTHAM.

John Winterbotham was born at Nottingham,
England, May 14th, 1828. In very early life the
prayers and counsels of a pious mother were so blest to

134

MEMORIALS OF

his soul that he sought and found the favor of God be-
fore he was ten years of age. In a journal which
he kept through life, he informs us that his connec-
tion with Sunday Schools commenced when he was
eight years old. In his twelfth year he began to
meet in Class. Here he obtained the aid and com-
fort his mind required. He ever after through life
highly appreciated Class Meetings. Cottage prayer
meetings are frequent in the villages and rural dis-
tricts of England. They are generally conducted
by a band of praying men, especially young men,
who attend to the work under the direction of the
Superintendent Minister, according to a written or
printed plan. On one of these plans the name of
Mr. Winterbotham was found e'er he had reached
his fourteenth year. Even then he began to exhort
and preach, but his name was not put on the Local
preacher's plan until he was eighteen. At this
early age he, with other young men, was made the
happy instrument of leading sinners to Jesus. As
a class leader. Local preacher, teacher of a Bible
class and temperance advocate, he zealously toiled
in the vineyard for ten years, not only sowing in
tears, but oft bringing his sheaves with him.

Fully convinced that it was his duty to give him-
self up wholly to the blessed work of preaching
Christ, while pondering on the subject, he received
a pressing invitation to enter the work in these Pro

WE3LEYAN MISflONAKIES.

135

ll
Is
le

le
d
In

vinces. He immediately made up his mind to come.
He arrived at Halifax, Oct. 23, 1856. At the en-
suing Conference he became a probationer for the
ministry V He was ordained at Fredericton in 1860,
and for eleven years afterwards labored diligently
and with good success in various portions of this
Conference. His last circuit was Pownall, P. E. I.
But his period of ministerial toil was of brief dura-
tion there. In the midst of his days, and sur-
rounded by an affectionate people greatly attached to-
their pastor, he was stricken down by the hand of
death.

Full of ardor, he was enthusiastic in all he under-
took. Fluent in speech, with a lively imagination
aijd poetic thought, he generally enlisted the atten-
tion of his audience ; especially the young. Among
these he loved to mingle, and to lead their tender
hearts to the Divine Master. Sabbath school effort
was his delight. Exceedinr^ly fond of music, and
capable of its production, both vocal and instrumen-
tal, he greatly interested both young and old in the
social circle, and in the sabbath-school room. A
genuine teetotaller, he hesitated not to identify him-
self with those organizations which he deemed calcu-
lated to extend temperance principles. Some of his
temperance addresses were remarkable orations, ex-
hibiting wide range of thought, sound argument,
sublime eloquence. His descriptive powers were

136

MEMORIAI-S OF

of a high order. His last affliction was very painful.
But he found grace to help in time* of need. He
exchanged worlds on the 21st March, 1871.

Burdens of age ne'er pressed liis mind,

Or made his locks look hoary,
He found the rest we toil to find.

While yet a youth— in Glory.

WE8LETAN MISSIONARIES.

1S7

il.

A TRUE MINISTER.

A sinner bom, but bom again,
Bom of the Spirit from above ;

His inmost nature felt the pain

Of guilt, and then the pardoning love ;

The Spirit's witness in his breast

Lulled all his guilty fears to rest.

Henceforth to aspiration given,

A royal diadem he sought ;
Nor would a starless croMTi in Heaven,

Compose wdthin the struggling thought
The Spirit's promptings now compel
The story of the Cross to tell ,

Temptation's rugged battle-ground.
With cautious feet he firmly trod ;

Malignant hosts of hell around

Harassed the suffering child of God,

Till victory came, by Jesus given.

Scattering the coward foes of Heaven.

I saw him now, with conquering faith,
Defy the powers of earth and hell,

Discerning clearly duty's path.
All obstacles before him fell.

Onward pursued the narrow road,

Intent on bringing souls to God.

His zeal, by reason gently swayed.
Despised not help of human kind,

For full efficiency delayed

Scholastic stores of truth to find,

5sa

188

MEMOEIALfl OF

Nor lost 'mid college scenes the grace
First tasted in his early days.

Began the message to unfold

Before the pulpit steps were pressed ;
Ardent, but not unseemly bold,

The truth proclaimed, his hope confessed,
By deeds of ?ove, and warning voice.
Allured to everlasting joys.

I saw him in the sacred desk,

Seraphic thoughts rolled from his tongue,-
Not schoolboy-like repeating task.

Nor whiningly the Gospel sung ;
But sin mth fearlessness portrayed.
And sweetly Gospel grace displayed.

His living thoughts, and words of flame,
Attention claimed, and moved the heart ;

The guilty, awed by Jesus' name.

Wept as they felt conviction's dart, —

Their way to Calvary pursued

To test the all-atoning blood.

Earnestness sparkled in his eye,

Was seen in every feature too ;
His smile, more serious than a sigh

From those who worldly things pursue.
Beckoned the sons of men away
From gloomy earth to endless day.

Yet some the message disobeyed,
Eefused persuasive voice to hear,

By fearful threatenings undismayed.
They hastened on in sin's career ;

His warning words, wdth tears bedewed.

Arrested not the multitude.

t¥ESLBYAN MISSIONARIES.

I saw him when the lightning's flash
Parted the cloud and rent the sky ;

I heard the awful thunder crash,

And thought of Judgment thunders nigh ;

Unmoved he sang, and talked, and prayed,

While thunders rolled and lightnings played.

I saw him gathering sermons next ;

From house to house he gladly strayed.
And while the Bible gave the text.

Old men and children, wfe and maid,
Supplied the illustrative part,
Racy and artless, from the heart.

Nature he read on mount and vale.
In forest grand and fruitful field ;

Refused not the historic tale,
Philosophy its mite must yield ,-

Treasures from earth, and sea, and lieaven.

Solicited, were freely given.

I saw him in his study too, —
I frequently beheld him there, —

Arranging thoughts, both old and new.
And permeating all with prayer ;

Henceforth, it was not hard to guess

The secret of his large success.

The widow's heart was lone and sad.
Earth's troubles came in close array ;

His visit made the household glad.
Sorrow and tears hastened away ;

The pastor's presence healed the smax-tj

And wakened music in her heart.

13S

Again I saw where brethren met
In earnest mood for discipline.

140

MEMORIALS OP

He seemed not ever to forget

The sinner, while he frowned on sin ;
The pruning-knife with caution used,
Where Gilead's balm had been refused.

I saw him in domestic life,

A father, husband, gentle, true,

Devoted to his loving wife,
Attentive to his children too ;

His Christian graces, all in bloom,

Rendered that house a happy home.

I saw him in affliction's hour, —

His first-born on the bed of death, —

I heard him ask sustaining power.

Beheld his struggling, conquering faith,-

" Take to Thyself, or spare my son,

Father, Thy righteous will be done."

1 saw him in a dreary house.

Where ragged, pining children stayed ;
The husband's early plighted vows

AVere by intemperance worthless made ;
The pastor's counsel, prayers, and tears
Shed rays of light 'midst gloomy fears.

I saw him with a pleasant throng

Imparting elements of truth.
Approving right, denouncing wrong,

Anxious to save unfolding youth ;
Intent their vigorous powers to employ
In checking vice and spreading joy.

I saw him oft M'ith noble band
Of philanthropic men employed.

To bind " the foe that rules our land,''
Dire enemv of man and God, —

WESLEYAN MISSIONARIES.

Discouraged, yet at duty's post
To help the weak and save the lost.

I saw him at a festive scene,

Performing solemn marriage rites ;

No gloomy feelings lived within,

His presence spoiled no true delights;

Not formal, stiff, austere, and sad.

But cheerful, pleasant, social, glad.

I saw a beggar at his door.

The tale pathetic was rehearsed.

He gave out of his scanty store.
And, while his bounty he disbursed,

A kindly word of counsel given

Pointed the poor to wealth in Heaven.

I saw him by a pilgrim's side,

When nature hourly grew more faint ;

Abundant sympathy supplied
Fresh courage to the dying saint,

Who seemed all ready to remove

To scenes of everlasting love.

At last I saw the pastor stand

On Jordan's brink with solemn pause,

He saw by faith the " better land,"

Nor seemed disturbed the stream to cross.

Into its depths he calmly trod ;
saw no more, — he went to God !

141

142

MEMORIALS OF

A MODEl, PEOPLE.

A busy scene ; the parsonage
Is full of life and energy ; --»

Delightful thoughts their minds engage.
Who come to welcome cheerfully

_ •

The pastor sent by Conference,
Guided, doubtless, by Providence.

Aged and youth in concert join
To cheer the preacher's family ;

Neatness and cleanliness combine,
With ardent love and sympathy,

To give a welcome, true and good.

Unto the coming man of God.

Beneatl), its load the table groans, —
Plain food and ornamental cake ;

No mouldy bread and meatless bones
A disappointed feeling wake ;

Abundance, mingled with sweet smiles,

A pleasant hour or two beguiles.

Approaches now a wearied throng
To meet a cheerful company.

They feel their weariness not long.
While joy dispels anxiety ;

This earliest, cheerful interview 4

Presages good the service through.

After repast and converse sweet,

Music and prayer, they separate,
Expecting soon again to meet,

WE3LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

On Habbath inorn, at Zion's gate.
Meanwhile, each one reHolves to pray
For copiouH blcHsingn on that day.

The holy day, the day of rest,

Anticipated all the week,
Once more rejoice.-* man and beast ;

God'8 people now his blessing seek ;
The preaching, singing, praise, and prayer,
All testified that (xod was there. '

fir

No rending rock, or trembling mount,
Or wind, or flame, man's nature stirred,

But hastening tears from nature's fount

Proclaimed " the still small voice " was heard.

Believers found abundant grace,

While sinners thoughtful left the place.

(A few more critical than wdse.
Less fond of truth than eloquence.

Unwilling faithfulness to prize,

Displayed their lack of common sense

By criticisms heartless, rash ;

To them the sermon was but trash.)

Henceforth a genial welcome greets

The pastor in his daily rounds.
Where'er one of the flock he meets.

The hearty mutual joy abounds ;
Cooperation's influence felt.
Makes valleys rise and mountains melt.

The rising race is not forgot,

The future Church he loves to greet ;

Next to the consecrated spot,

He loves in Sabbath-school to meet ;

There numerous lessons, simply given.
Prepare the young for crowns in Heaven

144

MEMORIAL OK

Tojuihcrs arc there, oft parentH too,
And strangerH glad to nee the young ;

Choice books and papers are not few,
Nor drawlingly the hymns are sung,

But all with energy proceed.

Whether to pray, or sing, or read.

No broken gates or tottering fence,
^ bout the premises are seen ;

C )rt is there, (not elegance),
xieigning without, blessing within ;

The just resolve is plainly seen,

" With preachers we will not be mean."

The needed quarterage, scarcely duo,
Is by the faithfid steward brought,

The very pleasing interview

Brings more than money to the spot,-

Affection lingers with the cash,

Without it sovereigns are but trash.

A 'ding as kind Providence

prospered us in earthly good.
We will with cheerfulness dispense ;

Our pastor shall not want for food ;
His numerous cares shall not increase
By scenes of family distress.

We say not, as too oft is said, —
And sometimes by professors too, —

Parsons too well must not be fed.
Much of the world will never do ;

To make them lowly, keep them down

Something like paupers on the town.

We cherish not the impious thought
Suggested by the enemy ;

WEBLlfTAN MISSIONARIES. 146

Kemcm boring that in life our lot
Improves roiclNt Chriwtianity ;
Justice eompols, with gratitude,
To care for mini.iters of 0;)d.

Sorrow unto the pursoiiage

Without a note of warning came, —

One of the flock, of tender age,
Now felt the burning fever's flaino ;

Parental grief wan eased to see

The beauteous stream of sympathy.

Offences came ; a rippling wave

Of mind and thought disturbed repose ;

The church from billows fierce to save,
The minister must interpose ;

He meets the parties face to face,

The rising storm to calm gives place.

Whene'er the breath of malice rose,

But few were found to waft the breeze, —

Aware that slander never grows

When early checked by men of peace ;

Believers all as one agreed

To frown it down by word and deed.

Temperance and Missionary schemes,

All means to elevate the race,
Were patronized, but not as dreams

Of phrenzied minds, devoid of grace ;
Consonant with the Bible, they
Engaged the efforts of the day.

A weekly message from the press.

The organ of the church conveyed ;
Lessons the femily to bless,

And feed the soid with heavenly bread ;

146

MEMORIALS OF

ifc«.>i

'«.»>'

If o paper such a welcome finds
Among mature and youthful minds.

Abundant irons in the fire,

All vigor and activity ;
The ploughboy and the honest squire

From labor find no liberty ;
No spunging dandies there you meet.
For those alone who work shall eat.

A warm and cherished love for home,

And fidl of patriotic zeal ;
Not anxious o'er the earth to roam,

Content 'neath Britain's flag to dwell ;
The Custom due cheerfully paid.
No righteous Kw is disobeyed.

Models of neatness, dames and maids.
No trailing dresses in the dust ;

Aiding their husbands at their trades.
No sighing for the upper crust,

Content 'midst virtue's smiles to live

In pleasures riches can not give.

The gambling and licentious crew

Find f^^vor in no family ;
Their plots of hell are brought to view

By wise ones ere maturity ;
Portals of vice are watched with care,
While warning notes attend each snare.

In manners good, in morals pure,
Without the vain and giddy dance,

Life's object mortals may secure
In every stage of life's advance.

Without the ball-room's vvild display
Of tiresome, sensuous revelry.

11;

WE8LEYAN MISSIONARIES.

Yet recreations rational
For bod^ and for mind abound,

Not comic or theatrical,

But those whose principles are sound,

No'j interfering with the soul ;

Even these do not the mind control.

Grateful for mercies daily given.
And yet disposed to kiss the rod ;

While on the earth, living for Heaven,—
Aspiring to the Throne of God ;

Seady, whene'er the Master sends,

To join above their dearest friends.

147

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Full text of "Memorials of Wesleyan missionaries & ministers [microform] : who have died within the bounds of the Conference of eastern British America, since the introduction of Methodism into these colonies"

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