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FRONTISPIECE.

IOLA:

OR

FACING THE TRUTH

BY

J. Pressley Barrett.

" Boundless love to yon and me"

RALEIGH, N. C:
Presses of Edwards, Broughton & Co.

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PREFACE.

Life — bondage — freedom — what a picture !
No painter's brush can portray, — it exists
only in the heart. It cannot be seen, it must
be felt. As in water, face answers to face, so
in the great sea of human experience, heart
answers to heart, mind to mind, till we live
and feel and see as another. Then only can
we see and appreciate the picture in all its
varied features, its bold figures and delicate
outlines, its master touches, here and there,
till it becomes a scene of rare beauty and
power.

The story of such a life is before you, deal-
ing with a living, growing question. Iola
Graham seeks the truth, walking through the
terrible fires of persecution, unmindful of the
sufferings she endures to obtain so rich a
reward as the crown of her life.

I trust it may entertain and instruct you
•A .

to follow along her rugged pathway, as, with

PREFACE.

true womanly courage, she meets error and
fights her own battles to victory.

Do not call my story a fiction. It is
founded on facts from real life. To this many
an aching heart will bear willing testimony.

If persons, from whose lives and history
these characters and incidents have been
drawn, shall recognize themselves as the pro-
totype in this narrative, I beg to assure them
that love for such as are, or may be, in like
perils, has prompted me to use them for so
noble a purpose as the good of others. The
thrilling, heart-reaching scenes through which
the heroine passes, it is hoped, may awaken
thought and point to a more excellent way.
If I may thus prompt and help the creed-
fettered man or woman to apply the balm of
relief, before it is too late, my object will be
accomplished and my reward gained ; and
then, as in the closing scene, may "Iphedeiah"
be heard by thousands who now spend their
days entangled in the galling chains of in-
tolerance. J. P. B.

Raleigh, N. C, April, 1886.

FACING THE TRUTH,

Chapter I.

Vfy^HE day was dark and the smoke from
iAM the field of battle floating upon the air
added to the gloom. The campaign of 1864
had been fearfully destructive to both life
and property in Virginia; In no section was
the damage greater than between City Point
and Richmond, on the James.

The home of Gen. Pickett, the Virginia
hero of Gettysburg, with many others, was
burned. Among the few of the magnificent
residences spared from the flames was the
noted old homestead of " Shirley," com-
manding a fine view of the river. It was
built of brick, it is believed, in 1642, and is
yet in a fine state of preservation and is sur-
rounded by fertile fields and lovely gardens.
It is specially noted as the birthplace of
Annie Carter, wife of Light Horse Harry
Lee, a soldier of Revolutionarv fame. She

6 IOLA; OR,

was the mother of Gen. R. E. Lee, the hero
of the Confederacy.

Here was the battle ground in some of the
hardest fights of the war between the States.
It was from this point that General McClellan
took refuge under cover of his gun-boats
after the never-to-be-forgotten Seven Days'
Battle around Richmond. Here, too, Gen.
McClellan met and repulsed Gen. Magruder
at Malvern Hill, besides many others, making
this section of the Old Dominion a field of
blood.

The Union Army in its famous march on
to Richmond, under the command of that
chieftain of chieftains, Gen. Grant, was press-
ing hard upon the Confederates. The turbid
waters of the historic James were streaked
with blood from adjoining hillsides, where
Carnage waved her red scepter mercilessly to
the death of thousands.

On the hills adjoining Bermuda Hundreds
many a poor soldier had fallen, some dead,
others to die, and a few to recover, among

whom was George Graham, of Co. , in

the regiment, under Col. S , all

of North Carolina. The cannons' roar had
ceased, only occasional rifle shots from the

FACING THE TRUTH.

^

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8 IOLA ; OR,

famous "bushwhacker" were heard. In
crossing a field George Graham was struck
by a ball from their guns which crushed the
kneepan and fractured the main bone of the
left leg, leaving him in a pitiable condi-
tion. He was alone, and the shock, together
with the rapid loss of blood, rendered him
helpless. For the first time in life he felt
that he was wading the waters of the dark
river. He imagined he felt the touch of
Death's icy fingers upon his brow. His mind
was clear and he rapidly reviewed his life,
which, as a Christian, had not been satisfac-
tory, but his hope was in Christ. The pain
brought from the thought of death, on the
battle-field- — away from home, from his
mother, added to the gloom of this trying
moment. Then a piteous plea went up to
God in his own behalf, He cried: M O
Father, send some ministering angel to my
rescue— let me not die here on this lonely
field ; let some hand of mercy minister to me
in this terrible suffering,"

Almost as if the echo to his own prayer
he thought he heard the fall of footsteps
near him. He listened — how anxiously!
"Oh," said he, "that must be the footstep

FACING THE TRUTH. 9

of a friendly comer, who will help a dying
man. If mother were only here to bless my
last moments, I could more willingly give up
the struggle and die in peace ! But I hear
footsteps, they seem near me," said he, and
turning his head, just to his right he saw a
bright, but half-frightened young woman,
having been drawn out of her way by the
piteous moans she heard in passing. She was
a brave girl, or she would never have gone
alone so near a dvinp; soldier — Heaven bless
her ! Her first impulse after seeing the situa-
tion was to flee, if possible, unobserved.
This her noble heart could not consent to do,
and drawing nearer she bravely asked :

" Can I help you?"-

" Water, please," lisped the parched
tongue through the pale, trembling lips.

Remembering a spring near by, Addie
Trueheart, for that was her name, took the
dying man's canteen, and in har.te brought
the cool water to refresh the exhausted sol-
dier. He drank freely, and taking what was
left, she bathed the bleeding wound. Look-
ing her full in the face, with a trembling
voice he said :

IO IOLA; OR,

"You are an angel of mercy, sent to me.
Thank you, and may God reward you, dear,
brave little woman."

11 May 1 not do more for you ?" she kindly
asked. " Thank you, good friend ; I know of
nothing more, only when you go home and
after I am dead, please write to my mother
and tell her, as tenderly as you can, of my
death in this lonely field. Tell her that I
died for my country and that my last mo-
ments were blessed by the visit of an angel
of mercy — I mean yourself. Tell her your
name and what you did to make me com-
fortable in my dying hour, that I hope to
meet her in that " Better Land " where no
cruel war slays men in this barbarous man-
ner." Then in a moment's silence, as if con-
templating Heaven, he feebly whispered,
" Oh, blessed, peaceful home of rest." Again
looking into the face of the brave little
woman, he said, " Before you leave me,
please tell me your name — I shall wish to
meet you and know you in Heaven."

"Addie Trueheart is my name," she mod-
estly answered.

"Thank you," responded the trembling
lips.

FACING THE TRUTH. II

"But," said Addie, ' I would not think of
leaving you here to die alone. My father is
a surgeon and we live just over the hill. I
will go and have you taken to our home,
where good attention may yet save your
life."

"Oh, thank you ! — I do thank you — I am
so thirsty ; more water, please."

The water was given, and as she turned to
go, she said, as if to cheer the man,

" There is hope — let that be the star upon
which to rest your eyes till help comes.
May angels watch over you," and the noble
hearted Addie went to her home for help.

Chapter II.

jEACHING home, Addie told what she
had seen and begged that help be sent
at once — that the soldier be taken to her
father's. To this no objection was urged, for
one could not well withstand the earnest and
pitiful plea of Addie Trueheart ; though her
father had some misgivings as to the proprie-
ty of the step, yet hertender appeal prevailed.

12 IOLA; OR,

A stretcher was improvised, and Dr. True-
heart, with four strong colored laborers from
the farm, with Addie directing the way, was
soon in the presence of the wounded man.
His removal to the Doctor's home was
quickly accomplished, and his wounds
dressed. During the days following, while
the sufferer was in their home, with a char-
acteristic kindness Addie sought to make
him cheerful and happy ; and by much faith-
ful nursing she hastened the day of his
recovery.

After the first attention to the wounds,
upon entering the room Addie observed a
decided change — a bright, fresh look on his
face, and she greeted him with :

" I hope you are feeling better, Mr. Gra-
ham."

" Oh, very much better — it is one of the
richest provisions of God's mercy that he
keeps some angels on earth, in bodily form,
else this night I must have died on that
lonely hillside, with no eye of pity to look
into my face save the twinkling stars of the
sky. I can never thank him and you enough
for this timely deliverance ; but your reward
is sure — God will bless you."

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 3

11 We have only done our duty, and you
must not give us the praise — it is all due to
our Heavenly Father. It was so dreadful
to think of dying on that lonely field ; I am
glad that we could be of timely service to
you. But now, father says, you are doing-
well, and may soon recover. After all, I may
not have to write that sad letter to your
mother."

" That is encouraging, indeed ; but how
unfortunate that I should be a trouble to
you and the family, even for the shortest
time in which I can hope to regain my
strength and the use of my disabled limb." .

" Indeed, we would not have you think
of that — it will be a pleasure to do all
we can for you," said Addie.

"This is May 16, 1864— a day I shall not
soon forget," he said. And there was good
reason why he should not forget it.

During the weeks following, Mr. Graham
was a great sufferer — some days he was
cheerful and hopeful, on others he was de-
pressed and weaker. By July he was rapidly
improving, and in August, having been hon-
orably discharged from the army, he sur-
prised all by announcing his purpose to

14 iola; or,

leave for his Carolina home in a few days.
This called forth many expressions of regret
from every member of the family, so pleas-
ant and companionable had he been during
his stay in their home. All, from the young-
est to the oldest, had become warm friends
to George Graham. He had shown that he
was not only a cultivated gentleman, but
warm-hearted and true.

August 1 8, he was to start for his home.
As that day drew near, he spent more of his
time with the family, till the evening of the
last day of his stay. During all the days of
his suffering Addie Trueheart had been a
ministering angel to him, and a sort of im-
pulse seemed to suggest that the afternoon
of his last day should be given to her.

The beautiful lawn, the lovely shade trees,
and the rustic seats were inviting, and here
together they spent the precious time of
that afternoon. The time was sacred, and
he appropriately used it to make known to
her his appreciation of the invaluable ser-
vice she had rendered to him in having saved
him from a dreadful and an untimely death.
S^ie observed his eyes intently fixed on her-
self. At length he said :

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 5

" The thought of leaving you and the
family, after the events and experiences of
the past few months, fills my heart with
strange but sweet emotions. The thought
that you saved my life strikes the very depths
of my soul's gratitude. It overwhelms me
and paralyzes my power of expression, till I
am speechless. Before you can really ap-
preciate my feelings, you must realize that
another has saved your life from the perils
of death on the field of blood. I look upon
you as a guardian angel sent by the good-
ness of Heaven to rescue one so unworthy
as myself from the very jaws of death."

" But, Mr. Graham, I would not have you
feel indebted to us — we have only done our
duty in caring for you."

" Indeed, it is a real pleasure to feel that
I am under obligations to you for service so
disinterested and so kind. As to your parents,
I am their servant ; and as for your own no-
ble self, I can only say, All that I have, all
that I am, or may be, and if at any time my
life can be given for your happiness, yours
is the privilege to command, and I will
obey."

16 IOLA; Oft,

" I have done nothing to merit such art
offering at your hands, but as a token of
your gratitude, I appreciate it. Let me as-
sure you again that it has been a privilege
to us, and my chief wish is that God may
help you to do good to others for his good-
ness towards vou."

Chapter III.

tr~ii>\». N_rrn c

j|!AY I ask a favor of you, Miss True-
heart ?"

" Certainly, sir."

" Pardon the seeming presumption, but I
wish your photograph to carry to my mother,
that she may at least see the image of the
brave little woman who saved my life when
I supposed I was already wading the chilly
waters of death. Besides, I wish it for my-
self."

" Under the circumstances, and for the
purpose first named, I cannot refuse you" —
and handing him a half dozen, she said,
" make your own selection."

FACING THE TRUTH* l?

14 Many thanks! Again," said he, "you
make me your servant. I will guard that
photograph to the latest day of my life. It
will ever call to mind davs never to be for-
gotten."

The beautiful " sunset's radiant glow" was
just then painting the western sky in match-
less beauty, throwing athwart the heavens
streams of golden light. Under the enchant-
ment of such a picture these two devoted
friends wended their way in the silence of
admiration to the mansion.

"When I am gone," said Mr. Graham, "I
hope your thoughts of me may not be con-
fined to the trouble I must have been to you
and the family."

"With your stay in our home will be asso-
ciated many very pleasant recollections, I
assure you."

Before a reply could be made to this very
kind remark they had entered the family
circle, where they joined in conversation
with others.

The next morning he left for North
Carolina.

The carriage being ready, he bade them
farewell quickly, and, as he pressed the hand

1 8 IOLA; OR,

of Addie, tears moistened his eyes and his
lips quivered. He was evidently praying for
a blessing upon the woman who had saved
his life. And — then he was gone. His ab-
sence was a vacancy indeed. " He often
spoke of others as angels," said Addie, " but
in truth I feel more as if one had gone out
from us."

On August 22d. George Graham reached
his mother's home and was welcomed as only
a mother can welcome a wounded boy, re-
turning from the gory field.

After the excitement of getting home was
over, he drew from his pocket a photograph
and passed it to his mother, saying in a half
anxious way : " Give me your opinion of that
face, mother."

" Why," said Mrs. Graham, " that is a
good face," and she made no mistake, for
Addie Trueheart was not only beautiful and
brave, but good as well. " I judge," said his
mother, "this must be the intended of your
heart."

" No, mother ; at least nothing has been
said . as to that, but it is the picture

FACING THE TRUTH.

*9

ADDIE TRUEHEART-

Give >ne your opinion of that face, mother. "

20 IOLA; OR,

of the lady who saved me as I lay bleed-
ing to death on the hills near Bermuda Hun-
dreds, in Virginia."

" Indeed, is this the lady of whom you so
often wrote as your ' ministering angel ?' "

" Yes, mother — a noble soul she is, too."

" Her features indicate a warm and gener-
ous heart," said Mrs. Graham, as she gazed
steadily at the picture she held in her hand.
Almost unconsciously she had fallen in love
with her son's deliverer, and well she might,
for without her assistance, George Graham
would have died from exhaustion and loss
of blood.

Weeks passed by till the close of the year.
To George Graham it had been the most
eventful year of his life. It had not only
been a period of sufferings, but of blessings
as well, for, to use his own words, an " angel
of mercy had been sent, in the person of
Addie Trueheart, to save his life."

The New Year came in with as flattering
prospects surrounding Mr. Graham as could
be expected in time of war, and yet he was
not himself — he was restless, dissatisfied
and sometimes a little melancholy. His
friends, even his mother, could not account

FACING THE TRUTH. 21

for his strange actions. He alone under-
stood the situation. The real cause was hid
in the deepest recesses of his heart. Since
he left Dr. Trueheart's, there had been an
aching void in his bosom which only Addie
Trueheart could fill. But how to reach this
balm for his wounded heart was the question
hard to answer. She was more than a hun-
dred miles away, the war was still raging,
the post routes were broken or intercepted
by the invading army. A visit in person
was not only a hazardous undertaking, but
well nigh an impossibility. Thus forced day
by day to move on in life without a word,
or the prospect of one, from the object of
his affections, he naturally showed the spirit
of discontent.

Such was his life till August, 1865. The
cruel war was ended, the post routes were
re-established and George Graham deter-
mined to wait no longer — he must by some
means reach Addie's ear and heart, too, if
possible. With this purpose in view, he ad-
dressed to her the following very modest,
yet tender letter :

22 IOLA ; OR,

Wynan's Falls, N. C, Aug. 25, 1865.

My Dear Friend :

More than a year ago I left your pleasant
home, after the most hospitable entertain-
ment through months of suffering. During
those days of darkness your tender kindness
threw sunshine into my own desolate life.
Indeed, I felt then, and now feel, that your
presence is necessary to my happiness.
Since the day I left your home, I have
realized almost a constant, and, often, a pain-
ful sense of your absence. Though I left
without asking permission to continue our
acquaintance, I venture to write, believing
that she who once delivered me from death,
could hardly turn a deaf ear to a request to
perpetuate the friendship begun under those
distressing circumstances. I beg at your
hands a regular correspondence. It will
afford some satisfaction in your absence. I
shall anxiously await ybur answer. May its
message come with good cheer for me.
With the highest regards for yourself and
the family, I beg to remain,
Your true friend,

George Graham.

FACING THE TRUTH. 23

Chapter IV.

^tfjSfWO weeks have gone since the posting
£-JL^ of that letter, but no answer has come.
This day he asked for his mail in hope of an
answer, but his hopes were blighted — the
letter, if there be one, had not come, and
George returned to his home disappointed.
He was too much of a man to make in his
own mind any unpleasant explanation of her
continued silence, and bravely nerved him-
self to wait with patience for whatever for-
tune might have in store for him.

When he next called at the post office
several letters were handed to him. He
quickly glanced over each and saw one di-
rected in a beautiful handwriting, bearing
as its post mark "Chester, Va." George knew
full well what that meant. He quickly re-
tired to a private room and alone with a ner-
vous hand opened the letter and read as fol-
lows :

24 IOLA ; OR,

At-Home-ox-the-J,ames, Va.,

Sept. 13, 1865.

Mr. George Graham,

Wynan's Falls, N. C.

Dear Friend :

Yours, asking permission to renew our war
acquaintance by correspondence, came Sept.
6. It was a surprise, for I did not suppose
I should ever have the privilege of hearing
from you again. If I can add anything to
your pleasure by such a correspondence, I
will count it a privilege. When I think of
what you have suffered in defending your
country, I should feel myself unworthy of
the name of woman were I to withhold from
your entertainment a mite so small as an
occasional letter from my pen.

Your letter awakens many sad and pleasant
memories of your stay in our home during a
portion of the war; sad, because of your
suffering, and pleasant, because of the very
agreeable associations enjoyed, which linger
yet as a glad refrain in the memory of those
days. I am glad to know of your good

FACING THE TRUTH. 25

health — that Heaven's blessings rest upon
vou.

I shall be glad to hear from you at your
convenience.

Your friend,

Addie Trueheart.

Had you been looking into George Gra-
ham's face, as he read that letter, you could
never have doubted the sincerity of his devo-
tion to its author. He read it a second time
and it pleased him more than at first. Upon
reaching his home he gave it a third reading.

At tea his mother remarked that some-
thing had pleased George unusually, as his
face was all aglow with smiles. To this he
made some passing remark, as if she were
mistaken, at the same time, however, he
felt the warmth of the blush of true love
playing upon his cheek. He knew that
his mother's remark was well founded — it
was an outward expression of the heart's
joy in hearing from Addie Trueheart, of
whom he often delighted to speak as his
"saving angel."

Through the night his sleep was blessed
with delightful dreams. In the morning,
going out to look after his business matters,

26 IOLA ; OR,

he found himself in a very pleasant mood,
and he really thought it the brightest morn-
ing he had ever seen. It was not very clear
to his own mind just why he felt as he did.
The secret of it all i.c, " the world is full of
beauty when the heart is full of love."

" There is beauty in the forest

When the trees are green and fair ;
There is beauty in the meadows,
When wild flowers scent the air —
There is beauty in the sunlight,
And the soft blue beams above —
Oh ! the world is full of beauty
When the heart is full of love.''

That explains it all — Addie Trueheart lives,
perhaps for him ; that's the truth of it.

It was only the next day that he availed
himself of an opportunity to answer that
letter, as the following will show :

Wynan's Falls, N. C, Sept. 20, 1865.

My Dear Friend :

Your very modest letter came to hand
yesterday. It was as an oasis in a weary
land. To know that Addie Trueheart lives
changes the hopes of this life to me ; and
more, to know that she cherishes kind recol-
lections of me, is a joy known only to my-

FACING THE TRUTH. 2J

self. Time and again it was my wish
and purpose to write, but mail facilities were
very poor, and I doubted that it would meet
your approval. At length, I could wait no
longer. I am glad to know that my first
letter met a welcome.

I can never cease to feel how fully I owe
my life to your noble efforts — your kind at-
tention, and through you to the surgical
skill of your father. Truly, I owe you a debt
of gratitude for saving my life which money
can never pay.

So much as you may wish of my life, of
my love, of my all, shall be yours. Excuse
my plain language, it is characteristic of a
sincere heart. If this statement displease
you, I ask now, in advance, for pardon on
the ground that you cannot appreciate the
emotions of my heart when I think of your
services to me in a moment of peril. To-day
I am a well man, and it is mainly due to
your heroic goodness and service in my be-
half. If I cannot repay you, God will, for
he rewards even a cup of cold water given
in his name.

Awaiting the pleasure of an early answer,
I am your grateful friend,

George Graham.

2S Iola; OR,

Chapter V.

(YTy;HIS letter changed the situation. She
^JL^ had not dreamed of George Graham
in the role of a lover, and she was not sure
now even that he meant to be such, though
his letter really indicated as much. She de-
termined to answer him without in any way
recognizing him as a lover.
Her answer reads :

At-Home-on-the-James, Va.,

Oct. i, 1865.
My Dear Friend :

I feel complimented by the respect you
gave my letter, even though your apprecia-
tion may have been governed more by cir-
cumstances than by the merit of the letter
itself. No doubt its sincerity and simplicity
called forth your good words in reply.

Permit me once more to remind you that
you owe nothing to myself, or our family,
for the little service we rendered you as a
wounded soldier. To know that we did our
duty in serving you in a time of need is
ample reward. So let it pass, to live only as

FACING THE TRUTH. 2Q

a green spot in memory, if you wish. If we
did a disciple's portion, in due time we shall
reap a disciple's reward — that will be enough.

You have not mentioned your mother or
sister; I hope they are well. I know they
must be happy to have you restored to them.
We can the more readily imagine the pleasure
you are to them since we so well remember
the happiness you added to our family while
with us. I have often wished, though in
vain I fear, that I had the precious gifts
which render one's company so desirable.
To be sure, one may cultivate the noble im-
pulses of heart and mind till we reach, in
part, this standard, so to speak. And this
will I try to do.

I am always glad to hear from you.
Your friend,

Addie Trueheart.

This letter gave rare pleasure to Mr. Gra-
ham, and yet he felt that something was left
out — unsaid. Certainly, it was friendly
enough, but mere friendship was not the
point at stake. Secretly he had loved Addie
Trueheart from the day he was wounded on
the field of battle, when he saw the half
frightened little woman approach him. She

30 I0LA; OR,

gave the cup of cold water and captured
his heart, and to this day every beat of that
heart has sent a thrill through his hopes of
future bliss. From that moment she held
the key to his life. Now he feels that silence
is a burden, which he must remove by mak-
ing known to her the deepest and purest
emotions of his being, if perchance he may
win her affections as the chief blessing of
the life she with rare womanly bravery had
saved.

Moved by the irresistible impulse of love,
he determined to make the matter as short
as possible, and in his next letter he wrote
thus:

Wynan's Falls, N. C,
Oct. 7, 1865.
My Dearest Friend :

Your very welcome letter came in due
time. The good news from my old war
friends delights me. But, (shall I confess
it ?) I am so restless and yet helpless. The
affections of my heart, like the inflowing tide,
are sweeping over the boundary lines, till
one bosom cannot contain all the love of my
heart — will you share with me? I have a
secret for your ears, and yours alone. I do

FACING THE TRUTH. 3 1

not wish to commit it to paper — may I visit
you at your home and " face to face" tell
you of the burden of my heart ?

I will not take advantage of your sweet
sincerity ; I will give you an idea of the char-
acter of my secret. Since the day you saved
my life on the battle-field of Virginia, though
unconscious of the fact, you have held the
key to my heart and my love. My chief
wish now is that you will consent to bless
with yours the life you so bravely saved.

With deepest solicitude I await your
pleasure. If you grant my request, kindly
suggest a suitable time for the contemplated
visit.

Your devoted friend,

George Graham.

" Well," said Addie Trueheart, " the ques-
tion is settled — George Graham is in love."
She with a woman's intuition had known it
from his letters, and, to own the truth, she
had feared that her own heart was also a
captive. Not till now, however, had she
seriously regarded it as the coming question
for her consideration.

Her heart was touched. " Shall I," said
she, " grant him permission to visit me?"

32 IOLA; OR,

As she thus faced this question, a reality,
she sincerely asked herself, "Can I, do I,
love George Graham ?" She knew she highly
esteemed him, but — well, she was not sure
of the rest. She hesitated to say, Come.
Days and nights passed — she could not de-
cide. Finally, she wrote, and this is the

letter :

At-Home-on-the-James, Va.,

Oct. 25, 1865.
Mr. Graham :

Your letters have given me much real
pleasure, but your last bewilders me. To
answer you is to assume a great responsi-
bility. If for no other reason than past
associations, I am compelled to say I would
be glad to have a visit from you. But to
have you come to give me a secret of such
magnitude as that indicated in your last
letter, is a matter you will, I hope, aliow me
to decide later — perhaps when you come.
Pay us the visit for the visit's sake, and you
shall have a hearty welcome. As to the time
of the visit, you may choose for yourself,
Our carriage will meet you at Chester any
day you may name. With best wishes,
Your friend,

Appje Trueheart.

FACING THE TRUTH. 33

Chapter VI.

fcjHAT letter is good, yet it lacks much
^jLlj of satisfaction," said George earnestly
to himself, but he determined to hasten the
visit, and wrote a short note saying he would
reach Chester, Nov. 7. At one o'clock on
the day named, the carriage returned with
Mr. George Graham as the only visitor.
Dr. Trueheart met him at the door and
gave him a warm greeting. It was the more
hearty because of the old friendship formed
during the war. The Doctor led the way to
the parlor. After a short but interesting
conversation, he excused himself, and pass-
ing out, informed Addie of the presence of
Mr. Graham, with a request that she would
entertain him during his absence. He
had no idea of the possibilities of the
visit.

Addie's mind flashed with thought, while
her face, as an index to the heart, showed
the evidence of hidden emotions. Having
become partially self-possessed, she entered
the parlor and met Mr. Graham. After a
2

34 Iola; Ok,

pleasant salutation, conversation on various
subjects was kept up till dinner was an-
nounced. It was a lovely autumn day, and
late in the afternoon Mr. Graham proposed
a walk, to which Addie consented. The
western sky was a glowing picture of sunset
beauty.

The walk led down by the spring, nearing
which, silence got the mastery of the two
young hearts, in which a thousand thoughts
revolved, or rather one thought revolved a
thousand times. At length, Miss Trueheart
broke the silence, with :

" Do you remember this field ?"

" Indeed, I do. I was just thinking of the
day when you found me, as I thought, dying.
I think the very spot is just ahead of us."

" Yes, it is. I judge that is a never-to-be-
forgotten day in your history," said Addie.

" It is, truly ; and it is made the more so
by the fact that on that day you took the
key that unlocks the door to my heart, and
it is yet in your possession."

Addie watched the ground closely, but
said nothing. Mr. Graham, continuing, said :

" I told vou in a recent letter that I had a

FACING THE TRUTH. 35

secret for you, and you alone. Are you will-
ing to receive it ?"

" Mr. Graham, you can tell me the secret,
if you wish, and my ear alone shall hear it,
even though I should be unable to treasure
it as you wish. Of this you may be sure,
your confidence is appreciated, and will not
be abused."

The walk continuing, George was looking
her full in the face, and his eyes bespoke
great earnestness as he said, " I love you as
no tongue can tell or pen portray, and that
is my secret.

" Say, my dearest friend, will you just
here" — and they stopped, standing on the
very spot where two years ago Addie had
found him sinking into the arms ot death —
" will you now, just here, consent to link
your future with mine, and so add a crown-
ing blessing to the life you saved?"

As she stood upon the soil once stained
by the blood of her present suitor, the siu
preme moment came, and, looking up into
George Graham's face, its manly sincerity
gained the mastery over her heart, and she
modestly said :

14 Be it as you wish."

36 IOLA ; OR,

And as they sealed the vow, Mr. Graham
said :

" May God help me till my latest sun is
sinking low to defend her who now consents
to link her pure life with mine, that I may
be blessed. All that I am, all that I may
be in this life, shall be yours."

A moment of sweet silence followed the
vows of plighted love, and, wending their
way slowly homeward, Mr. Graham modestly
said :

11 May I seek the consent of your parents
to our marriage, and arrange my affairs look-
ing to the early celebration of our nup-
tials?"

" To the first part of your request I do
not seriously object, but I hope you will not
insist on an early day for our marriage."

** Why would you delay the day which, of
all others, would bring me so much happi-
ness?"

" I know of no special reason," she said,
" only to name the day seems to bring the
fearful responsibility so near me. But speak
to my parents, and then we will consider th§
matter further."

Early the following day, Mr. Graham

FACING THE TRUTH. 37

sought and obtained the consent of Dr.
Trueheart and his wife to the marriage.

Returning to the parlor, he made known
to Addie the success of his efforts, and again
requested her to name the day, only to be
assured that she would seriously consider
the matter and report later.

November 12, ^fter an hour's parting in-
terview with his betrothed, Mr. Graham bade
her good-bye, and returned to his home, a
happier man.

By December 1, he had gained her consent
to January 7, 1866, as their wedding day.

Now all is attention both at Wynan's
Falls, N. C, and at Dr. Trueheart's to pre-
parations for the happy event. By the ex-
pressed wish of the bride expectant, there
was to be no foolish display on the occasion
of the wedding at either place.

Chapter VII.

ANUARY 7, at 12 o'clock M., George
r Graham alighted from the carriage in
front of Dr. Trueheart's residence to find a few
friends gathered with the Rev. Dr. Rickson,

38 IOLA ; OR,

the officiating clergyman, and being informed
of the readiness of all parties he proceeded
to the room where Addie was waiting to be-
come his bride.

All is read}-. They appear before the
minister. The ceremony is over, and
George Graham and Addie Trueheart are
man and wife.

At 12 o'clock, Jan. 8, they started for
Wynan's Falls, via Petersburg, Weldon and
Goldsboro, where they arrived at io o'clock
P. M., the same day,

Jan. 9, Mrs. Graham gave her son and his
bride a reception, which was attended by a
large number of their friends and neighbors.
An elegant dinner, with no wine, was served.
It was a merry occasion and the welcome to
the young man and his bride was very
hearty. No doubt to George Graham it
was his happiest day on earth. He had
cause to be happy — he had won the love of a
woman worthy of the heart and hand of any
man.

Time passed on — each month of acquaint-
ance with Mrs. Graham tended only to add
to her popularity in the community. She

Facing the truth. 39

Was recognized as a truly cultured and noble
hearted woman.

Life had lavishly blessed them. One point
only had entered as a dividing influence —
that was their church relations. He was a
Baptist, she was a member of the Christian
church. No word had been said, and yet
there were heartfelt, bitter pangs, known
only to Addie. George Graham was a " wool-
dyed" Baptist, and his exclusiveness, together
with occasional sharp "cuts" at the denomi-
nation to which his devoted wife belonged,
often sank to the very depths of her heart.
She alone felt the pain ; she would not — it
was against her finer feelings — resent in
like terms ; besides, her church had made it a
prominent part of its work to discourage
doctrinal disputes — not kind and honest dis-
cussions of thought. In short, the Baptists
were exclusive, while the Christians were
liberal and brotherly in their fellowship to-
ward all disciples of Jesus. Mrs. Graham
was a shining example of this peculiar feature
of their teachings. She patiently bore all
his thrusts at her faith — she would not re-
taliate, or speak unkindly of her husband's
church. But she saw very little, or no change:

40 I0LA ; OR,

the caustic spirit of his people had been so
implanted in his nature that he could neither
outgrow it nor forget it. Her love helped
her to bear this unnecessary burden as his
wife, and the love of the Master helped her
— rconstrained her, for Christ's sake — to
suffer and be strong./^

At length a great trial as to fellowship
came between her husband and herself. She
read only the day before in a Virginia paper
a very touching account of a communion
service at her old church. It told how the
pastor made beautiful remarks on the suffer-
ings and death of the Saviour, setting forth
tenderly the brotherhood of God's people,
resulting from that death. He showed that
the supper was instituted as commemorative
of his death and that all of his children were
to join in its celebration. It deeply impressed
her mind. She felt its force, for not since
she had been in a Baptist family had she
had an opportunity to join in the celebration
of the supper. In fact, to-day was the first
time she had been at church on an occasion of
this kind. She knew full well the rules, but
she did not know in reality the pain of see-
ing her own husband refuse to give to her

FACING THE TRUTH. 41

the emblems. Heretofore, her husband's
"cuts" at her faith and church had seemed
as possible jokes, but now that he refuses to
offer her the emblems, it assumes the form
of reality. She did so yearn for the privi-
lege of joining him at the table and with
him commemorate the sufferings and death
of the Saviour. She felt that it would help
her to a better life, it would encourage her
and her husband to greater diligence in
walking the narrow way together. She
could not see why they, as the children of a
common Heavenly Father, could not go
hand in hand to the Lord's table. But it
could not be so, sectarianism had forbidden
it, and this Christian wife must be cut off
and left alone.

During the week following this event the
burden was heavier than ever; the strength
of her will and character enabled her to bear
the cross in silence. She would not ask him
to leave his church, and she could not be re-
ceived into it with him because of her reli-
gious principles, and moreover to unite with
him would cut her off from the fellowship
of a Christian father and mother and her
own dear church.

42 IOLA; OR,

Time swept rapidly onward. Little was
said by either party on the communion
question, though Mrs. Graham rarely passed
a day that was not overshadowed by the sad
thought that sectarianism should thus put a
barrier between herself and her husband in
their religious life. With this exception
they had lived very happily together — they
had seen much of the sunshine of a happy
home.

A year has passed since their marriage.
Now God has given them a treasure — a dear
little girl. Her name is Iola — it was the
name her mother chose. From that time
forward Iola Graham was the center of
parental affection in that home.

Chapter VIII.

f^HERE is the Bible, my dear?" said
2 Mr. Graham to his wife, and he added,
'since your sickness, everything about the
house seems out of place."

The feeble mother pointed to the Bible.
It was the first time he had conducted family

FACING THE TRUTH. 43

worship since her illness. The lesson he read
was from Proverbs 22. He began to read,

11 A good name is rather to be chosen than
great riches, and loving favor rather than
silver and gold."

In the prayer following this lesson he
asked the Father for grace for himself and
wife that they might train the young and
tender Iola in the way of the Lord, holding
a good name as far more precious than great
riches, and the loving favor of God as above
silver and gold.

In after years it seemed as if this prayer
was answered, for at an early age she showed
a very high appreciation of a good name.
She was reverent in her conversation, never
making trifling remarks about sacred and
holy things. Her parents had exercised
great care in her training. The years passed
rapidly away. All is peace in that house-
hold, only church relations are the same.

Iola was growing into young womanhood,
and, as her mother had given special atten-
tion to her education, she was quite well
prepared to enter college at the very early
age of 12 years.

But the particular school to which she

'.*

44 IOLA; OR,

should go was a question on which her fond
parents would probably not agree. The
mother expressed a wish that the tender
girl might be trained — educated — in an un-
sectarian school, but her father objected just
here — he wished his child to attend the
Hollins Institute school, in Virginia, being
secretly determined that she should go to a
Baptist school. He loved his wife very
dearly, he even remembered her brave ser-
vice in his behalf on the bloody hills of
Virginia, but that could not touch his heart
in this matter; Iola must be sent to a Bap-
tist school, where she could be under Bap-
tist influences. He said but little, mean-
while he was quietly laying his plans to send
her to Hollins Institute.

As the time to go drew near, he put in a
plea for Hollin's on the ground of the health
of the place. His wife yielded gracefully,
but reluctantly. She knew in many schools
of this class sectarian influences are thrown
around the pupils, still, she hoped — prayed —
that her child might escape. She felt more
concerned because Iola was her only child,
dear as the " apple of the eye ;" especially is
this true of an only, dutiful and loving

FACING THE TRUTH. 45

daughter, and Iola was all of this, having
never intentionally disobeyed her parents.

In September, 1879, tne question was
decided and Iola was sent to Hollins. All
moved on well, apparently. She was a model
school girl — industrious and apt, keeping her
studies well up.

Of course, in this school she never attended
a service except when conducted by Baptists,
and necessarily she was led to imbibe Bap-
tist views. Though she had made no pro-
fession, had never confessed Christ, yet she
had become in sentiment a Baptist, " of the
most strictest kind." Then, too, the timidity
of her mother, though she was devotedly
attached to the Christian Church, had
kept her silent on denominational questions,
while her father had been the most pro-
nounced Baptist, even bitter against other
denominations. All this had deeply im-
pressed her young mind and led her to be-
come a Baptist.

She had attended school two full sessions.
While at home, in vacation, in 1881, she at-
tended a protracted meeting at Broad Creek-
Baptist church. There were many profes-
sions, and among them was Iola Graham.

y

46 IOLA; OR,

Of course, the parents rejoiced at the con-
version of their only child. At the close of
this meeting the pastor, Dr. Jenkins, preached
a doctrinal sermon, in which he claimed for
the Baptists a superiority over all others ; in
fact, he said the Baptist church was the only
New Testament church, all others being off-
shoots— lacking in the strength and heart of
the truth. He said immersion only is bap-
tism, and that none should come to the
Lord's table save regularly baptized members
of regularly constituted Baptist churches.
He said when Jesus instituted the Lord's
Supper, none but his disciples were present,
and that baptism preceded the supper. He
then invited young converts to come forward
to be received for baptism.

So fully had Iola Graham imbibed Baptist
sentiments while in their school, that she
was the first to go forward to be received
into the fellowship of Broad Creek Baptist
church. Her father was delighted at her
choice. While it brought pleasure to his
own heart, he little thought of the pain it
cost her mother, who, though saying nothing,
was the more deeply pained at the thought
that in the tenderest and most sacred rela-

FACING THE TRUTH. 47

tions of life, in their spiritual interests, she
should be cut off from all association with
her own husband and daughter — never to
have the privilege of their fellowship, but
with the meekness of a lamb she said nothing.

The meeting closed and Mr. Graham, his
wife and daughter returned to their home,
little thinking of the cloud of trouble which,
even then, veiled that mother's heart,
although Mrs. Graham was the very picture
of sadness. As they came near to their
home, Iola said innocently,

" Mother, do talk some for us — surely you
are not sad because I have made peace with
God — become a disciple of Jesus ?"

11 No, iola ; I am glad to feel that my only
child is a Christian. There could nothing
better be your portion."

For a moment all is quiet. Then the con-
versation is on another matter; perhaps
there was a wish to change the subject,
hoping thereby to call her mind away from
the trouble upon which it dwelt. After
reaching home Mr. Graham and Iola were
very cheerful and happy, but the dear mother
could not be drawn away from her sadness,

48

IOLA ; OR,

" Dear mother, why are you so sad all the
while ?" she said, as she gently placed her
arms about her neck.

" My daughter, I have my troubles like
other people. However, I think it is best
not to speak of them. I hope some day to
be as cheerful as you wish me to be, but for
the present I feel that duty calls me to bear
my sadness in secret."

It was very strange to Iola, in the fulness
of her new faith, that her mother, a Chris-
tian, should be so sad. She was rejoicing
in the sweet happiness of sins forgiven.

Chapter IX.

jfHE passing days brought no perceptible
change in Mrs. Graham's melancholy
state. She was often seen sitting gazing at
Iola, and then arising she would retire to
some private place, saying : 'k I am so alone."
This remark was heard repeatedly, but its
interpretation could not be known. Time
glided swiftly on, and the father and the

FACING THE TRUTH.

49

" Dear mother, why are you so sad all the while?" she
said, as she gently placed her arms about her neck.

50 IOLA ; OR,

daughter felt the dread approach of some
trouble — to them unknown.

A business meeting of Broad Creek church
had been announced for the following Sat-
urday, and the administration of the Lord's
Supper for the Sabbath. Iola and her father
being members, attended the services, leav-
ing Mrs. Graham at home. It was unusual
for father and daughter to go without the
mother. The good-bye kiss was warmly
given, and the beautiful Iola lingered a few
moments, manifesting tenderness and con-
cern for her mother. Finally she said,
" Good-bye, mother dear ; you must be real
cheerful while father and I are away. We
will be home early — by 4 o'clock this after-
noon, I suppose."

Mrs. Graham lingered about the door,
watching the departure of those nearest and
dearest to her on earth. She was casting an
eager, watchful eye after them as they turned
the last corner and were gone.

Turning to go to her room, she remarked,
in a half congratulatory manner, " I have
the dearest husband and the sweetest
daughter" — but just then her heart was
crushed with the thought that while they

FACING THE TRUTH. 5 1

all loved and served the same Saviour, she
as the Christian wife and mother could never
be permitted to join them in commemora-
ting the death of Jesus around the Lord's
table.

This picture grew rapidly in her mind till
it became burdensome, unbearable. She
hastened to her closet, and under this weight
she bowed in prayer. A weak, tremulous
voice is pleading with iis God for strength
to bear the burden. Hear her pitiful wail :

" Oh ! God," she cries, " help me to endure
this pain and misery of heart — I am so alone,
cut off and disfellowshiped by my own hus-
band and my dear child." Then, as if to
herself, she said in a half rambling way:

" Will they never come back to me? Can
I never join them in commemorating the
sufferings and death of my Saviour at the
Lord's table?"

Here, as if in a semi-conscious state of
mind, in her grief, she appealed pitifully to
God to bring them back, or to take them
all — father, mother and child — together to
a place where no sectarian church rules can
thus divide a warm hearted Christian family
in the service and worship of God.

52 IOLA; OR,

Here her prayer abruptly ceased, and she
started, as if she saw before her the land of
some sacred Utopia, where no exclusiveness

in the church would separate and divide her

it

own dear family. Her bewildered mind
vainly supposed this land was nigh, and she
followed, all unconsciously, its leading. She
left her home in quest of this blessed place —
she wandered, searching for the place of
which she had been dreaming in her derange-
ment, for she was a deranged woman. In
her wanderings, afoot and alone, she was
impelled onward under the vain hope that
somewhere she would meet her loved hus-
band and daughter, freed from the manacles
of sectarian bigotry.

The prospect of such a happy event allures
her. The more she contemplates the possi-
bility, the more rapidly she travels, each
step talrnig her from her home and loved
. ones, and further into the wild woods. Only
God can keep her while she thus wanders.
May the Angel of the Lord encamp round
about her, and safely deliver her from the
perils of this sad moment in her history.

At 4 o'clock p. m., Mr. Graham and Iola
returned, both in fine spirits, having much

FACING THE TRUTH. 53

enjoyed the meeting at Broad Creek, pre-
paratory to the communion service on the
Sabbath. As they alighted from their car-
riage, Iola hastened to her mother's room to
give her the first kiss. She entered with a
gay and happy heart, but alas! poor child,
her joy was quickly turned into grief — her
mother was not there. She hurried from
room to room, but in vain. Alarmed, she
ran to her father, crying, " Oh ! where is
mother? I have searched every room in the
house ; I cannot find her. Oh ! father, where
can she be ?"

"Do not be alarmed, my daughter; your
mother must be about the premises."

While he sought thus to console Iola, he
had had himself for several days forebodings
of coming trouble. It had seemed to be
hanging over his very pathway as a dark,
portentous cloud. Iola, too, had similar
misgivings of impending danger, but both
had kept their fears strictly to themselves.
Quickly the search was renewed, Mr. Gra-
ham joining Iola ; they looked here, there,
everywhere, in their reach, but found her
not.

54 IOLA; OR,

They stopped in their bewildered search
a moment, to think— just then Iola said :

" Father, I fear some ill. Do you not
know mother has been so sad of late?
When I asked her the cause of it, she re-
plied, ' It is best not to make it known.'
Oh ! father, I am so afraid my dear, sweet
mother is gone where I shall see her no
more."

Just then neighbor Mcintosh said she was
seen about one o'clock, going toward the
Great Pocosin. They hastened in that di-
rection. For an hour they sought her in
vain. Night was near at hand, and the
thought of mother spending it in the lonely
woods as a wanderer in its darkness was
more than the devoted daughter could
bear. The search was kept up, and just
as the golden glories of a lovely sunset
were fading into the evening twilight,
they saw in the distance what seemed to be
two persons approaching, and soon Iola rec-
ognized one of them as her mother, who
had been found wandering in the woods by
Mr. Jason, with whom the Grahams had a
slight acquaintance, and he had kindly taken
her in charge and was leading her homeward.

FACING THE TRUTH. 55

A little nearer, and Iola exclaimed, " My
mother!" and Mrs. Graham, looking up, saw
her husband and daughter, and in a moment
she was in their embrace. She seemed de-
lighted at meeting them, doubtless suppos-
ing she had reached the happy abode for
which she was searching, where sectarian
rules could never again divide and put bar-
riers in the way of their happiness and re-
ligious peace — a place which she fancied
would bring the much desired opportunity
of joining her husband and child with other
Christians in commemorating the sufferings
ard death of the Saviour in the celebration
of the Lord's Supper.

Mr. Graham's voice, as he spoke, seemed
to break the spell of derangement under
which she was wandering, and as he saw the
return of reason, he very tenderly said :

11 Oh, Addie ! My dear wife, how came
you here, and what is the matter?"

This fully caught her attention, and she
answered :

" My husband, you have always been so
tender, so devoted to me, and then the cir-
cumstances of our early love were of such a
character as to make our union doubly sa-

56 IOLA; OR,

cred. I have been yours in the fullest sense
of the word from the time of our marriage,
and my life has been given to your happi-
ness, so that even the appearance of separa-
tion has well nigh crazed my mind."

" Separation ! How, my dear wife ?" anx-
iously asked Mr. Graham.

"Well, in this way: I have always been
cut off from you in our spiritual relations by
the rules of your church. Perhaps a thous-
and times my heart has ached because of
this unfortunate fact in our experience ; and
many a time have my cheeks been bathed
with the scalding tears of my grief, all be-
cause you could not permit me to join you
in celebrating the Lord's Supper. It has
been the one ungratified desire of my Chris-
tian experience, and yet I made up my mind,
for your sake, to bear this burden in silence
as best I could. I thought I was succeed-
ing, till a few days ago — when I saw my only
child, Iola, cut me off from fellowship with
her by joining your church. From that
moment my heart was pierced with the dart
of despair. The thought of never, never
being permitted to join any of the members
of my own dear little family in the commun-

FACING THE TRUTH. 5?

ion service, troubled me ; it haunted me by
day, and in my sleep my dreams intensified
my sufferings.

Chapter X.

'HEN you and Iola left this morning
to go to Broad Creek church, I felt
more keenly than ever the pang of this
trouble. I went to my place of secret prayer.
Suddenly I felt moved to go in quest of a
place where the church rules would not make
me so unhappy. I started. I soon lost my
way — I wandered, and when I met you and
Iola, my first thought was — how mistaken ! —
that I had found my sacred Utopia, where
I would no more hear the harsh and unkind
criticisms simply because I differ from others
on questions of minor importance, or rather
on matters of mere opinion ; where I should
be heartily welcomed to the privileges of
the church with my own husband and child.
Oh ! it all now seems so much like a dream

to me, but I see I am not at home; let me

» >
go —

58 IOLA; OR,

During this explanation Iola stood look-
ing and listening — almost bewildered. Her
heart trembled for her mother's safety, and
she said, in a manner expressive of tenderest
love and sweet assurance :

" My precious mother, make yourself con-
tented. Come, let us go home, and you
shall no more be cut off from my fellowship
as one of God's children."

While Mrs. Graham would not have her
child sacrifice principle, except upon con-
viction that the principle is wrong, still these
words comforted her weary spirit. The as-
surance was a balm to her wounded heart.

Iola could not say why they had not ear-
lier seen the nature of her mother's sadness,
though Mr. Graham, while restless, had but
very little to say. Evidently he was weep-
ing at heart over the sad condition of his
wife, but clinging with a strong grip to his
sectarian views — he was divided, and his
love was struggling, not between his wife
and his religion, or his faith in God, but be-
tween his wife and the human dogmas of a
sectarian church. The spectacle was a sad
one.

Reaching home early in the night the

FACING THE TRUTH. 59

weary mother was soon sleeping very sweetly.
Perhaps the presence of the angels calmed
her troubled spirit and gave her the blessed
rest she so much needed. We are told, you
know, that " the angel of the Lord encampeth
round about them that fear Him."

While the mother slept, father and daugh-
ter talked the matter over. Many expres-
sions of regret fell from Iola's lips because of
the sad occurrence of that day, and in their
absence, too. For a few moments the depths
of their pain found expression only in sighs.
At length Iola kindly said :

11 Father, there must be something wrong
in the close-communion practice of our
church, for I do believe my dear mother is a
christian, and if so, as such she has a clear
right to all the privileges at the Lord's
table — just as much as you or any other one
of his children, I see no reason why they
should not allow — even invite — her, and all
true christians, to the Lord's Supper to-
gether. Can you ?"

" My child, since tnis is the Lord's table —
and not ours — we have no right to invite
any one to it."

"Then, father, I understand you to say

60 IOLA ; OR,

the Lord withholds from you the right to
invite any one to the table, and at the same
time gives you the privilege to keep some of
his children away?"

" This is no time to ask or answer any
such questions," and he walked out, leaving
Iola standing bewildered at his reply.

She spent the remainder of the night
quietly in the sick room. In the early morn-
ing, as she was about to leave the chamber
where her mother was so sweetly sleeping,
she pressed one more tender kiss upon her
sad, pale cheek, when Mrs. Graham awoke,
to be greeted so pleasantly with,

" Good morning, mother; I hope you are
feeling better, you look much refreshed." It
was Iola speaking to her mother, who feebly
responded,

"Thank you, daughter; I do feel better
and yet not well,— I had such a hard day
yesterday."

"Yes, mother, I am deeply pained to
know that any act of mine should have given
you trouble. The selfish practice of our
church in keeping other christians from the
Lord's table does annoy me no little, but
father says it is all proper, and yet, I do feel

FACING THE TRUTH. 6l

that my dear mother ought to be permitted
to partake with me, and others of my faith
and order, of the Lord's Supper."

"Ah! child, I cannot expect it in this
life — you and your father are such strong
Baptists : but your course toward me has
cost me many a pang of heart-sorrow, many
an hour of silent, but bitter weeping. When
I could look forward to a possible fellowship
with my only child, that in part made up for
the loneliness I had on account of your
father's being cut off from me, or I cut off
from him, by the rules of his church ; but
now you have joined with him, and I am
more lonely. My dear child, I wish you to
be happy and belong to the church of your
choice, but when I saw that you had cut me
off from your fellowship, I felt I could not
endure it — the loss to me was incalculable.
No doubt this fact gave me the nervous
shock of yesterday and brought me to my
present weakness. You see this had been
working on me, even before your conversion,
for your father, dear, good man that he is,
never could look with favor on my church,
and often, perhaps unthoughtedly, he would
say hard things about my people. So when

62 IOLA ; OR,

I saw you join his church, it cast a piercing
dart through the last hope I had of having
the fellowship and companionship, spiritually,
of any of my own family in this life. As I
thought of this my heart yearned for the
blessed land where these narrow views will
be buried forever. I was praying over this
very matter when my mind seemed to leap
toward such a spiritual Utopia and beyond
my control. It seems now like a dream. I
remember thinking I could find you and
your father there, and I started, as I thought,
with a bright hope before me, but it was a
vain journey, for though I found you, or
rather you found me, still you both are the
same exclusive Baptists as before."

" Mother," said Iola, " please do not worry
yourself over this matter — it can do no good
and may make you worse. I hope it will be
all made right sometime,"

"Yes, child, it will, but not till we meet in
Heaven. The lines and walls of partition
your people have built too strongly ever to
encourage or permit union among God's
people,"

"Maybe not, mother; at any rate, I am

FACING THE TRUTH. 63

most anxious that you shall not make your-
self worse by studying and talking about it."

11 I would love to get well and strong
again, but, my daughter, I do not now ex-
pect that. I have felt for some time that
my days are nearly ended — the impression
has been deeply fixed in my mind since the
night before you were converted at Broad
Creek church. I have not spoken of my
dream to any person, but "

" Tell it to me, mother, can't you ?" asked
Iola.

11 Well, I can if you wish. I had in a
dream a sort of vision. Your father, your-
self and I were in a beautiful church. The
congregation was large. In front of the
altar was spread the Lord's Supper. I heard
the minister give the invitation to join in
the celebration of this most sacred sacrament.
It was to all of God's believing children
present. Then your father led the way, and
you and I followed. We bowed around the
table. It was the first time my poor heart
had had its yearning ^gratified. I was so
happy, language can not tell it — my soul
was thrilled, delighted. As we arose, an
angel seemed to be hovering above the

6\ IOLA; OR,

sacred emblems, bearing a scroll, upon which
was written the words of Jesus at the insti-
tution of the Lord's Supper:

' Drink ye all of it.' — Matt. 26 : 27.

' And they all drank of it. —Mark 14 : 23.

"At the conclusion of this delightful ser-
vice, we all joined in singing these words:

1 My span of life will soon be done,
The passing moments say.'

" The next day you took your stand on the
Lord's side. I was happy again at the
thought that my child was a christian. But
when you joined Broad Creek Baptist church
my hopes fled, not that I would object to
your choice, only that thereby you cut me
off from your fellowship.

" There is a significance in the inscription
on that scroll. I think it plainly says that
Jesus did not forbid any of his believing
children to join in the supper. The first
commands all — not a part of them — to drink
of it, and the second says they did all — not
a part — drink of it.

" When I saw you unite with the Baptists
my dream came back, as a vision before me.
It seemed to say, this much was given you
as a foretaste of the happy union of your

FACING THE TRUTH. 65

family in Heaven, for while you have never
shared in the bliss of such a scene on earth,
(and you never will,) the joy shall be yours in
" the sweet bye and bye."

Just then I heard, as from the tongue of
a whispering angel, these comforting words:

" Courage, my soul ! thy bitter cross,
Tu every trial here,
Shall bear thee to thy Heaven above,
But shall not enter there."

"Thus, my dear child, I have been led to
feel that my end is near. If so, I will leave
you in the hands of my Heavenly Father.
May He be your Protector and Guide. I
hope to meet you in Heaven; we'll find no
traces of this exclusive spirit there. I believe
you and your father will be able to greet me
there as one of the redeemed."

" I hope so, dear mother. In Heaven I
think we shall have no church rules to stir
up strife and divide the great family of God."

Seeing she was weary, she retired from the
room to give her a chance to rest. At the
dinner table she told her father of what her
mother had said during the morning. As she
alluded to her being cut off from their fellow-
ship, she showed signs of deep emotion.

3

66 IOLA; OR,

Finally, looking up into her father's face
through blinding tears, she said :

*' Father, I fear we shall not have mother
with us much longer, she is so sad, despon-
dent ; and what hurts me so deeply is, that
she seems insane with grief because our
church cannot allow her to join us, or us to
join her at the communion table. I am so
sorry it is so. Father, is there no way this
privilege can be given her?"

" None whatever. She will not join us
and be rebaptized, and nothing short of
that could ever allow her to go with us to
the Lord's table."

" Father, are you fully satisfied that our
church is right on that point V

" Well, yes, I think so. Why?"

" Somehow it seems hard to divide a
family in this manner. I believe my suffer-
ing mother is just as truly a Christian
before God and man as any of us,"

" It will do no good, Iola, to talk of this
matter, so let us drop it ;" and the young
girl reluctantly consented, for she was anx-
ious to give this question a full examination
to see what is right,

Facing the truth. 67

Chapter XL

?ROM the dining hall they went together
I to Mrs. Graham's room. As they en-
tered the mother awoke and Iola saw
in the short time of her absence she had
grown worse. A chill had seized her. The
doctor was recalled at once. After a care-
ful examination of her symptoms a prescrip-
tion was given. The doctor was leaving,
and Mr. Graham anxiously inquired as to his
wife's condition, only to be assured that her
case was a serious one, being in danger of
pneumonia from cold taken on the day of
her wandering from home. "You have cause
to be anxious," said the doctor, "but I will
do all in my power for her relief."

When Dr. Johnson called again he found
his patient had grown worse. His opinion
sent alarm into the family. Under the most
skilful treatment she grew worse, and each
day added to her weakness.

Mrs. Graham's condition greatly troubled
her husband. As is frequently the case, the
husband of a dying wife, reviews his life as

63 tOLA; OR,

her~companion. Beginning with the scene
on the hills of Bermuda Hundreds when he
was dying, as he supposed, away from loved
ones, with no gentle hand to assist him in
this terrible struggle, their married lives
passed as in a panoramic view. He felt the
pangs of grief striking deeper into his heart
as each scene came up, till the one showing
how the exclusiveness of his religious life
had so wrought upon his wife as to bring
trouble and finally terminating in wrecking
her mind and health, and now she is pros-
trated in sickness, it may be unto death.
Here the picture brought a shudder of fear
upon him — he trembled at the thought
that his conduct, religiously, toward his wife
should have had such results. He tried to
shift the responsibility from his own should-
ers under the pretext of faithfulness to his
religious convictions, or as he expressed it,
" I must serve God rather than man." But
a still small voice whispered into his ear
these words: "A selfish exclusiveness is ser-
vice to the traditions of men rather than
service to God." Then he caught himself
repeating that passage of scripture which
says: "But in vain do they worship me

FACING THE TRUTH. 69

teaching for doctrines the commandments
of men." See Matt. 15:9.

It is Sunday morning. Mrs. Graham has
grown rapidly worse since the doctor left
her the night before. She is sinking. This
fact was made known to Mr. Graham and
Iola. They came to her bedside. As the
husband stood looking upon the form of his
dying companion, his heart throbbed with
grief. He was speechless from heart anguish
— he kissed devotedly the pale face, and
turned aside to weep in tears of sorrow and
regret.

Iola, poor child, summoning all the spirit
she could, ventured to speak to her dying
mother.

" Mother," she said, " do you know you
are nearing the pearly gates of Heaven ?"

Turning her feeble eyes upon Iola, she
answered :

" I do not know, my child ; if so, it is well,
and I am ready to go home. The way has
been a difficult one, but if the end be near I
have a bright hope of victory through our
Lord Jesus Christ."

" My dear mother, the doctor says you
can not be with us long," and the young

70 10LA; OR,

girl's heart heaved, as the troubled sea, with
the depths of pain and sorrow. As she stood
by her thus talking, she pressed many a
warm kiss upon the cold face of her dying
mother. Seeing the end was so near, the
devoted child said :

" Mother, give me a parting word, ere
you go home, to comfort and encourage and
guide me when I am left a motherless girl."

"My daughter, take care of your father and
of yourself, but more than all seek to walk
close with God — be a christian, and then I
shall meet you on the shining shore — in
Heaven. There will be no sorrow there.
There will be no heartless church rules to
drive'one into agony of mind — there will be
no division among us, and I shall for the
first time meet you equal in privileges. I
shall hear no more harsh and unkind thrusts
at God's people, simply because of mere
differences in opinion, and we shall all be
happy together — members of one great
family, children of a common Father, and, as
such, we shall be entitled to all the privileges
of that blessed home. But listen!

' There are angels hovering 'round,
To carry your mother home.'

FACING THE TRUTH. 7 1

And then the silence was intense — the
dreadful and rapid advance of death hushed
every mouth and stilled every movement.
To the ear of the dying mother only was
heard the sweet strains of music from the
angels' harps. With her eyes fixed on the
sweet fields of Eden, she reached forth her
hands and repeating odd lines of a grand
old hymn, she said :

" Let me go where saints are going, —

Le: me go, I'd cease this dying,
Let me go, for bliss eternal

Lures my soul away — away,
And the victor's song triumphant

Thrills my heart — I can not stay —
I would gain life's fairer plains ;

Let me join the myriad harpers,
Let me chant their rapturous strains,

For the joyous songs of glory
Call me to a happier home."

One brief moment of gasping, and the
struggle was over — Addie Trueheart Gra-
ham was with her God.

Father and daughter were buried in sor-
row. They had a double burden, for with
their grief was mixed a dread of having un-
necessarily distressed by their religious ex-
clusiveness the dear wife and mother whose

72 IOLA ; OR,

lifeless body now sleeps before them in
death. Of this, however, nothing- was said.

A dispatch was sent to her old pastor to
conduct the services at her burial, which
took place on Tuesday at noon. The words
he used for the text were: "Precious in the
sight of the Lord is the death of his saints."
A large number of people attended the ser-
vices and burial of this noble woman.

They made her grave beneath the spread-
ing branches of a massive tree in the family
graveyard.

Chapter XII.

sOT a week had passed since the death
of Mrs. Graham when Mr. Graham
observed a sadness in Iola which he could
not attribute to the death of her mother.
Every expression in her countenance por-
trayed a restless anxiety not characteristic
of her earliest grief over the grave of her
mother. Confident that some unusual bur-
den of grief had been added to her loss,
he determined to have an interview with

FACING THE TRUTH.

73

" They made her grave beneath the spreading branches of
a massive tree in the family graveyard."

74 IOLA; or,

his daughter, and, if possible, obtain an
explanation of this restless spirit now so
clearly manifested in all her actions. The
days passed on till Sunday afternoon —
just two weeks after Mrs. Graham's death —
when he met Iola in the parlor alone, and
addressing her in a fatherly way, he said :

11 Iola, my dear child, I know you bear a
heavy burden of grief in the death of your
mother, and yet, I have thought for some
days that you have some sorrow weighing
upon your young heart aside from her death.
I Wish you to tell me just what it is."

" Father," she said, " I could tell you, but
I am impressed that it might be wise not to
do so."

''Why, daughter, I do not understand
you — you alarm me!"

11 No alarm, father; I am willing that you
should know all of my troubles — I only
thought it expedient to bear the burden
alone, still if you insist, you may know it,"
and she proceeded, as follows:

" You know, father, the sad circum-
stances which led to mother's illness, and
perhaps to her death. Since I understood
that it was our religious exclusiveness that

FACING THE TRUTH. 75

so troubled her, and, as I fear, deranged her
mind, I have had all I could think about,
and I am not surprised that you have ob-
served new trouble in my face. I have been
examining the close communion question.
I have brought it down beside the plain
teachings of the Bible. Mother's trouble
gave me much pain before, and now, since I
have studied the subject closely in the light
of the Bible, I am simply miserable ; for I
feel that, in our blindness, we have followed
the teachings of man, as to the Lord's Sup-
per, to the loss of my dear mother, while the
Bible is plainly in favor of the views she so
devotedly held through all the shadows of
her beclouded life — she was no doubt a mar-
tyr to this cause. This thought is crushing
to my heart, and I can find no relief from
the pain of my guilty conscience; like one
of old, my sin is ever before me, and — there
is no rest to my anguish-riven heart."

" Why, Iola, my dear child, you do not
mean to say that you renounce the faith of
the Baptists, do you ?"

" No, father, indeed I do not ; but I do
mean to say, that I am no more in favor of
close communion."

y6 IOLA; OR,

" Then you are no longer a Baptist," re-
plied her father.

"What?"

" You are no longer a Baptist."

"Why not, father?"

" Well, restricted or close communion is a
leading feature of the Baptists, and those
who discard it are not recognized as true
Baptists. But, my child, I wish to know on
what grounds you have renounced this im-
portant feature of your faith?"

" Father, it will take much time to tell
you that, but I will try.

"My dear mother's sufferings, brought on
by our being cut off from her religiously,
first led me to inquire into the authority for
the practice of close communion. I say this
led me to search for the facts. Having be-
gun, I became interested to know the whole
truth in this matter. The result of my in-
quiries led me to abandon a belief in this
selfish practice. I took my Bible, with my
concordance, and searched it through — read
and studied carefully all I could find touch-
ing the Lord's Supper. When I finished, I
was satisfied that the doctrine of close com-
munion, as taught and practiced among Bap-

FACING THE TRUTH.

77

11 I took my Bible, with my concordance, and searched it

through.'

78 IOLA; OR,

tists, is not to be found between the lids of
the inspired Word of God.

1. "I saw nothing in the Bible to indicate
that any of the early Christians were ever
kept from the Lord's table, while in good
standing, religiously, with the brethren.
There is certainly no evidence that Jesus or
any of the Apostles kept any Christian away
from this hallowed festival.

2. " Jesus, when he instituted the Supper,
gave it to all of his disciples who were then
present, and especially said, ' Eat ye all of
it' — that is, all the disciples should eat of
the emblems used.

3. " I find that Paul expressly stated the
conditions on which God's people might join
in celebrating this Supper. In all his writ-
ings I found no place which says : ' Let a
man be immersed, and so let him eat of that
bread and drink of that cup ;' but I do find
in his letter to the Corinthians, a passage
which gives these plain directions as to the
conditions upon which one may partake of the
emblems of the Lord's Supper. It reads :
' But let a man examine himself, and so let
him eat of that bread and drink of that cup.'
Now, I had always been taught that baptism

FACING THE TRUTH. 79

qualified a Christian to partake of the sacred
emblems at the Lord's Supper. I nowhere
saw any allusion in the Bible to baptism as
having any precedence over it, and I know
that Paul does not write as if baptism
had any relation to the Lord's Supper.
I do not remember -a single passage in
which he mentions the two ordinances-
baptism and the supper — together. He never
once associates the two in any sense, which
in the remotest way shows a dependence of
the one upon the other, or a precedence of
one over the other. So you see, father, I
have not made up my mind without seriously
considering the step, regarding my responsi-
bility to God and the authority of the Bible
as my highest concern."

" Ah ! I see you are led under the grief of
the recent loss of your mother to feel that it
is traceable to the close communion practice
in the Baptist church. To a certain extent
it is natural for you to feel thus, but you
will soon see your mistake and return to
your old faith. I think the Baptists are
right, as you, no doubt, will, later."

Two weeks passed with no further allusions
to this unpleasant subject. It was a lovely

8o IOLA; OR,

afternoon, and Iola and her father were sit-
ting under the shade trees of the old home-
stead, enjoying the fresh balmy air. Con-
versation grew dull, and Mr. Graham thought
he observed in Iola the same restless sad-
ness again, to which allusion has already
been made.

At length he enquired ' if she were not
yet satisfied on the close communion ques-
tion.'

" Ves, father," she answered, " I am satis-
fied now as never before, that close commu-
nion is the great mistake, yes, more, it is the
most barefaced error in our church, doc-
trinally speaking, for while there may be
other heretical views among us, they have
some plea for their existence, but I can find
nowhere in the Bible any grounds upon
which to base even the appearance of truth
in this close communion heresy, and I do
hope sooner or later our church will turn
away from this unscriptural practice."

" My child, I am surprised at the language
you use ; surely, you do not know what it
means, or you have forgotten the early teach-
ings I gave you."

"No, father, not that ; but I remember, too

FACING THE TRUTH. 8 1

well, perhaps, the sufferings of my mother,
which in the main are directly traceable to
the exclusiveness of her own husband and
child — I can not forget that, for it led her
to the deep anguish of disfellowship on the
part of her own family, and further, to
derangement and to her grave," — and the
dear child burst into tears.

" Admit all that to be true, my child, can
you change your faith — your religious prin-
ciples— because they grieved even your own
dear mother?"

" No, father, — that is not the case. I do
not reject close communion on that ground,
but on this : My mother's sufferings, because
of our conduct toward her, which was made
necessary by our faith, led me to investigate
the grounds on which I was standing. I
could not see how in a great family the
father should so order the regulations of the
household as to make it so very burden-
some to any one of his loving, faithful
children, and the other children be happy.
So I could not see how close communion
could be of God, when it brought so much
strife and division into his church and such
intense suffering to a part of his children,

82 IOLA; OR,

leaving the others happy. Here I deter-
mined to examine the Bible for myself and
see if my Heavenly Father had so ordered
this matter; and now, I am satisfied, after a
candid and careful examination of the Book,
that there is absolutely no scriptural authori-
ty for close communion ; and, for one, I do
hope our people will give it up, and adopt
the Apostle Paul's rule, to let a man examine
himself and so let him eat of this bread and
drink of this cup."

•'Ah! child, that is a vain hope — they will
never do that — no, no."

11 Yes, yes, father," said Iola, " I hope they
will. I know I was a true Baptist, and I
have changed on that point, and I hope all
may do so. It would help us to be* more
scriptural and more Christ-like, two points
to gain which believers can afford to give
up any human dogma, and to make a sacri-
fice of any church rule not found in the
Bible. You see, father, close communion is
a human regulation in our church, because
the Bible nowhere enjoins it, and, what is
more, the whole spirit of the Bible is
against it."

FACING THE TRUTH. 83

Chapter XIII.

" But really, Iola," said Mr. Graham, " are
you in earnest in renouncing the close com-
munion of the Baptists?"

"Indeed, I am father."

" Well, if you persist in it, your church
will certainly disfellowship you."

" Do what, father?"

"Yes, they will be compelled to disown
you as a member of a Baptist church, Iola."

u For what ?"

" Because you renounce the Baptist faith."

" I think that would be dreadful, father!
Here I am, a young girl, just grown up, and
motherless, and for my church to disfellow-
ship me because of an honest opinion, and
so set the public to talking about me — it is
not Christ-like. But you do not really
think they would have me arraigned
and disown me for holding this view, do
you r

" Indeed, they will — they can not be con-
sistent and do otherwise. You had better

84 IOLA; OR,

abandon these notions and return to the old
faith."

" Cannot be consistent with what, father?"
u With the rules and usages of the Bap-
tists."

"Ah, that may be, but I know they could
be consistent with the Bible and a christian
life and not disown me for these views.
Again, as to going back to the old faith, I
can not do that and be honest — the truth is
deeply imbedded in my heart ; I cannot give
it up.

" Iola, you deeply mortify my feelings."
" Dear father, I do not wish to do that —
I do not mean to do it, and yet, believing
that I have the truth, I can not abandon
it — it is as dear as life to me." As she said
it she laid her arms about his neck and kissed
him tenderly, and as she did so, the big
tears ran down his cheeks. Doubtless he
Was thinking of Iola's mother, and a combi-
nation of sad memories crowded his mind
and filled his heart with tender emotions.
He continued to struggle with his feelings,
' till at length he overcame them, and he
said:

"Well, if you must subject yourself to

FACING THE TRUTH. 85

such an unpleasant affair as a church trial, I
can only say, it is a bitter pang that I shall
never forget, for which I can see no earthly
necessity."

'* Dear father, is there no necessity to re-
spect my conscience — my honest religious
convictions? Would you, father, have me
trample my principles under my feet, sim-
ply to escape the church trial to which you

allude ?"

"But how, my dear child, did you ever

become possessed of such principles?"

" By studying the Bible."

"Well, but I have studied the Bible, per-
haps more than you have, and so have thous-
ands of Baptists, and we do not wish to re-
nounce our faith as Baptists — then why
should you ?"

" I will grant that you, and many others
of our people, have studied the Bible more
than I have, but you studied it under the
light of a sectarian lamp, while I hope and
believe I studied it in the light that fell
from the face of a dying Christian, while her
brow was radiant with the coming glory of
the other shore — my mother. Admitting
that I am wrong, father, it yet remains

86 IOLA ; OR,

for you, or some of our people, to show it
from the Bible. Do that, and I will cheer-
fully yield my views and return to the old
faith, and take my stand with you."

Mr. Graham did not accept Iola's proposi-
tion to show wherein the Bible was against
her, and so she continued to stand by her
new faith.

On Friday afternoon, he quietly and very
kindly reminded Iola that the next day
was the time appointed for a business
meeting at Broad Creek church, at the same
time asking her if she wished to go. She
made answer in the affirmative, and asked
the hour of meeting.

11 At 1 1 o'clock in the morning," he said.

'4 Then we shall have to go early in order
to be on time," answered the young girl.

At 9 o'clock the next morning, Mr. Gra-
ham and Iola were seated in the carriage and
off to Broad Creek. On the way both were
unusually quiet. At length Iola introduced
conversation, by saying:

" I have not been to my church since the
day mother was taken so ill. I did very
much enjoy the services that day, but I do
not suppose I will to-day."

FACING THE TRUTH. 87

" Why not, Iola ?"

" I am quite sure if they arraign me before
the church on account of my close commun-
ion views, I shall not enjoy it, because of
the unpleasant publicity. But, if it must
come, for the Truth's sake, I will not flag.
By the help of the Lord, I will stand by my
post of duty; besides, I feel that the mem-
ory of my mother's sufferings will encourage
and strengthen me in my darkest moments.
Here I must abide till the way opens to
me.

" Well, if your mind is made up to that,
you may as well nerve yourself to submit to
a trial, for it must come," said Mr. Graham.

"Then I shall try to meet it as a chris-
tian."

" My child, it is painful to me, but you
know my duty in the case. As a deacon I
must report you, though you are my own
child. I will take no part against you pub-
licly. I will give the facts to a brother
deacon, who will bring the matter up for
consideration."

"And will not my own dear father speak
one word in my behalf?"

" My child, your father can not. You will

88 IOLA; OR,

have to speak for yourself," and having
reached the church yard, the conversation
ended.

The meeting opened with devotional exer-
cises. Then came the business meeting.
After much routine work, Deacon Ashton
announced the fact that a certain member
had been walking disorderly, "to report
which is a most painful duty. I allude to
our young sister, Iola Graham, charged with
having renounced the Baptist faith, touching
the important feature of close communion.
I think there is no doubt of the truth of the
charge, but the sister is present and can
speak for nerself."

The moderator, turning to her, said: "Sis-
ter Graham, you have heard the words of
Deacon Ashton ; have you any thing to say in
reply ?"

The young girl timidly arose and said:
" The charge of Deacon Ashton is true."

"Brethren," said the moderator, "you
have heard the sister's answer ; what will you
do in this case ?"

" I move," said Bro. James, " that we ap-
point a committee of three to wait on this

FACING THE TRUTH. 89

sister, notifying her to prepare for trial at our
next meeting."

Iola, understanding that she would have
to speak for herself, determined to do so at
once, and, if possible, avoid a protracted trial.
Though a cross to her, she arose, and, with
trembling voice, said :

" Brethren, in all proper deference to you
I would say, it seems useless to defer this
matter till another meeting; I am as ready
now for any proper disposal of the case as I
can be then. As there seems to be a wide
difference between myself and this church,
if it is your pleasure to give me a letter,
certifying to my christian character, I will
give you no further trouble."

The moderator informed her that the letter
could not be given. Then, said the brave
cirl

" If I must be expelled from my church
for these views, your immediate action will
suit me as well. My mind is made up, and I
would prefer that you dispose of the matter
to-day."

"A formal trial is unnecessary if she is
positively determined to maintain her posj-

90 IOLA ; OR,

tion against restricted communion," said the
moderator.

" I am so determined," she answered.

"What will you do with the case, breth-
ren ?" said the presiding officer.

This seemed to stop them all — the ques-
tion was too much for them ; at least, they
hesitated to take it up.

At length, Deacon Folley arose and said :
" I move that Iola Graham be now expelled
from the membership of Broad Creek church
for the sin of renouncing restricted com-
munion."

The motion received a second, and the
chair put the question to the house. As he
asked if there were remarks to be made,
Bro. Jordan arose and said :

" Bro. Moderator, this is a very delicate
matter, and I regret exceedingly that it is
before us, My duty to my church, however,
will compel me to vote for the motion. No
Baptist can do otherwise. Her course is a
thrust at the stronghold of our organization,
and we, as Baptists, can not be too prompt
to condemn it."

In a similar manner quite a number spoke.
AH seemed to regret the necessity for such

FACING THE TRUTH. 91

action, and yet they were ready to vote for
the motion.

At length the moderator asked :

" Has the young lady any one to speak for
her, or will she speak for herself?"

To this she responded:

11 I have no one to speak for me, but I
will speak for myself," and she began:

" I am devotedly attached to my church,
but I have become convinced that our people
hold to restricted communion without scrip-
tural grounds for the practice. I have been
urged to bury my faith in this matter for the
sake of avoiding a difficulty here, i am
anxious to shun all difficulties in this life,
but the morel meditated on the question of
duty in this case, the more I was convinced
that I should stand up for the faith once de-
livered to the saints and speak for myself, if
need be. I therefore can not hold my peace.

" To-day I appeal to you to go with me
through the sad experience that has led me
to this point.

" I was brought up a Baptist. My
father is a Baptist. I went to a Baptist
school to be educated. I professed faith in
Christ within these sacred walls. I united

92 IOLA; OR,

with this church. Here I was baptized.
These facts prepared me to believe as Bap-
tists believe. I did so heartily and sincerely.
Going home from the first business meeting
held after I became a member of this church,
I was shocked to find my dear mother
gone. For weeks she had been in trouble,
but I could not discover its cause. Finding
her gone, I became alarmed. I feared she
had become ill, or that some harm had be-
fallen her. My dear father and I went in
search of her. In the twilight of coming
darkness, we found her, deranged and sick.
In that moment I suffered such heart-an-
guish as no tongue or pen can describe.
Humanly speaking, my mother was a model
Christian. I found her reason had been de-
throned, and I feared through the grief
brought to her heart because father and I
could not fellowship her at the Lord's table,
the rules of our church forbidding it while
she was not a member of the Baptist church.
She belonged to the Christian church. She
said she bore this, though a burden, for
father's sake, till I joined with him. When
she saw that each member of her own dear
family was cut off from her fellowship as a

FACING THE TRUTH. 93

Christian, the thought crushed her hopes of
becoming united in this life. The idea
of disfellowship for a warm-hearted Christian
mother became a heavy burden to my soul.
But this, though terrible in itself, did not
fix my faith in opposition to our church.
For mother's sake, I did deeply regret the
seeming necessity for non-fellowshipping her.

" I wish here to state distinctly all this
fact ever had to do with my change of faith
was, that it led me to search the scriptures
to see if these things were so — to see if in
the Bible I could find any just grounds upon
which father and I, as Christians, should re-
fuse to meet my now sainted mother at the
Lord's table. After the most painstaking
examination of all that Jesus and the in-
spired writers had said about the Lord's
Supper, I was unable to find any passage of
scripture justifying close communion.

" I know that, as a people, we hold that
one must be baptized by immersion before
he can join God's people in commemorating
the sufferings and death of the dear Saviour,
but I can find no such directions in the Bi-
ble. When Jesus instituted the Lord's Sup-
per, he said, in passing the cup, ' drink ye

94 IOLA; OR,

all of it,' by which I understand that he
meant, not necessarily all of the wine, but
that all of the disciples should drink of it. I
know on this point our church decides who
may and who may not partake of the Sup-
per, but Jesus did not so restrict the privi=
leges of the holy festival ; and I am quite
sure Paul did not understand Jesus to limit
its privileges to such only as had been im-
mersed, for Paul, with emphasis, says : ' But
let a man examine himself, and so let him
eat of that bread and drink of that cup.'
Surely, that sustains my views of open com-
munion. Besides, the spirit of the scrip-
tures, as a whole, sustains me. Reason also
upholds the same idea. Did you ever see a
reasonable father shut out a portion of his
dutiful children from the blessings of the
home? I do not believe that God is the
Author of close communion — it is a human
dogma.

" So, brethren, in the main you have
my reasons. I hold them in a pure con-
science before God. I cannot do otherwise.
I know I must be expelled from this dear
old church, so it is needless that I speak
further. Now I await my fate."

FACING THE TRUTH. 95

As the brave but modest Iola took her
seat, the moderator asked if there were any
other remarks to be made. Not one ven-
tured a reply. Iola's burning words were
still ringing in their ears. Yet when the vote
was taken, it was unanimous for her expul-
sion from Broad Creek Baptist church,
though many gave their consent in tears.
Iola accepted the situation kindly and grace-
fully.

After the meeting closed, they shunned
the presence of the brave little championess
of open communion. This was a bitter ex-
perience to her mind and heart. She gently
bore the cross, believing her cause was just.

On the way home little was said, but oc-
casionally words were exchanged, in which
the father showed no sympathy for his noble
daughter in the trials through which she
was then passing — the fires of persecution
burned pitilessly along her sad and lonely
pathway.

96

IOLA; OR,

IOLA GRAHAM.

" The fires of persecution burned pitilessly along her sad
and lonely pathway."

FACING THE TRUTH.

97

Chapter XIV.

Vty^HE following Sabbath was communion
iAij dav at Broad Creek. Iola accompanied
her father to this service but took a rear seat,
expecting to hear a sermon on close commu-
nion. In this she was disappointed. Not a
word was said — doubtless the pastor thought
''prudence the better part of valor." With
the burning words of the young girl and the
plain facts of the Bible, he evidently thought
it was wise to say nothing on that subject,
for while all voted to expel her, he knew
many were in sympathy with her in her
open communion views. To discuss the
question now might lead to a closer search-
ing of the Bible, and it was only too likely
that it would result as in Iola's case.

Sunday afternoon, returning home, Mr.
Graham said : li Well, daughter, what now ?
You do not mean to live out of the church,
do you ?"

" What else can I do ? I have been ex-
pelled."

4

98 I0U\; or,

11 Please do not speak of it in that way,
Iola."

"How then, father?"

" Do not say that we expelled you, but
that your views would not allow you to re-
main with us."

"As much as I delight to please you,
I can not do so by making such a state-
ment as that. Bfoad Creek church expelled
me for holding open communion views,
and I must so state it, because facts are
facts."

11 So you do not propose to renounce your
new faith and come back — be one with us
again ?" . • ■

No ; I have no such purpose*, though I am
unwilling to live out of the church — I must
seek a spiritual home.

11 Where do you think of going, Iola ?"

"Allow me time, I am not fully deci-
ded. I have been reading the doctrinal
views of many of the' denominations, espe-
daily have I examined the teachings of the
Bible. At this time I am looking toward
the Christians for a church home."

" I hope you do not mean that, my child,"

"Why?"

FACING THE TRUTH. 99

"Because I know of no more objectionable
denomination."

" How is it objectionable'"

11 Well, that is enough — my word ought to
be sufficient, and you ought to accept it
without question."

14 That is all true, perhaps," said the inno-
cent, earnest girl, " but I am searching for
the truth. I do not wish to act on any ' hear-
say,' I want the/acts. If you know any good
reason why I should not go to them for a
church home, please tell me, so that I may
act intelligently."

" My child, they are the worst people
among us."

" Pardon me, father, I do not mean any
disrespect, but you told me that before. I
wish the facts. Tell me why they are so bad
a people ?"

" I will do so. They hold and teach bad
doctrines."

" Will you name one or two ?"

"Yes, child. I will mention just one,
which will be a bar to their success and use-
fulness forever. One of their cardinal prin-
ciples is this : ' The right of private judgment
and the liberty of conscience is accorded to all

100 IOLA; OR,

their members! Now, daughter, just that one
sentiment will kill them, and it ought to, too."

" Really," said the girl, " I admire that
very principle."

" Dear, dear me, daughter, surely you do
not understand it. See here ! You can be-
long to them and hold to any view you like.
When they do a wrong thing, if called to ac-
count for it, they plead the right of private
judgment and the liberty of conscience in
extenuation of that sin. If a drunken man
is arraigned for the sin of drunkenness, he
simply makes answer that he has the right
of private judgment and the liberty of his
conscience in the case, and they have to
submit. The same is true of other sins.
You can see at once how untrue that church
is to Christ. I hope you do not mean to cast
your spiritual welfaie with such a people."

This was an unexpected blow to Iola's
ideas and purposes. After some thought
upon this new version of the principles of
the CHRISTIANS, she approached her father
and said :

"Are you not mistaken? That principle,
as you interpret it, seems so unnatural
for a christian people to live under — I

FACING THE TRUTH. IOt

think you must have misconceived its spirit,
to say the least of it."

11 No, Iola, it is true. If you unite with
them you must do so with this great sin
looking you full in the face."

" Well, you may be right, but that I may
be certain as to that, I will v/rite to my
mother's old pastor, Rev. T. M. Rickson, of
Virginia, and ask him if that is a proper
interpretation of that principle, as held by
the Christians."

" My child, you doubt my word ! I am
surprised at you !"

" No, father, I do not in that sense, — I only
think you have misunderstood them. It is
because of this, that I propose to write to
Mr. Rickson."

She addressed the following letter to him:

Wynans Falls, N. C,

Sept. 20, 1882.
Rev. T. M. Rickson,

Venice, Va.
Dear Sir : ■■— I am a little confused. Will
you kindly give me some facts touching
leading principles of the Christians? It is

102 ioLA; OR,

said that you allow your members, when
guilty of unchristian-like conduct, to plead
the right of private judgment and the liberty
of conscience in extenuation of their sins,
and remain in full membership with the
church. Your church was my mother's
church, and I am anxious to know the truth
of this rumor. With much interest, my dear
sir, I shall await your reply.

Very Respectfully,

Iola Graham.

Chapter XV.

JR. Graham, seeing she was determined
to carry into effect her purposes, grew
daily more fretful, and even unkind toward
Iola. She bore it all patiently, and conducted
herself as the same loving daughter she had
been while in the Baptist church.

A week had now passed since the posting
of her letter to Mr. Rickson. The answer
came. Iola was all expectant, and opening
it, she read :

FACING THE TRUTH. 103

Venice, Va., Sept. 25, 1882.
To Miss I ola Graham,

Wynan's Falls, N. C.

In answer to your kind inquiry of Sept. 20,
permit me to say, I am not surprised that
you are confused by the rumor named in
your letter.

The right of private judgment and the
liberty of conscience is a highly prized fea-
ture in our distinctive principles, but the
coloring given it in the rumor to which you
allude, is as false as it is absurd. Permit me
then to set at rest your mind by remarking,

1. This principle among us applies wholly
to matters of opinion — not of faith — about
which good men and women have differed
in every age of the world. To illustrate :
Here is a Christian church, of which I have
the honor to be pastor. In its membership
are two useful Christian men. One of them
is a firm believer in the doctrine of predesti-
nation. The other is a strong advocate of
man's free agency. They both live and
work well together in my church, and not a
word is said against it. Upon this point
and upon kindred subjects, they enjoy the
privileges of the fifth cardinal principle of

104 IOLA; OR,

our church — they have and exercise the right
of private judgment and the liberty of con-
science, and they are happy.

2. This principle in no way gives the right
of private judgment, &c, to our members in
questions of morals. It has no reference to
morality. A misdemeanor committed in the
Christian church is as promptly dealt with
as in any other church. The Bible will cer-
tainly point it out and condemn it as a mis-
demeanor, and we take the Bible for our
guide. You may rest assured that the CHRIS-
TIANS will be the last to give disorderly
members protection in their sins by any such
use or abuse of this grand principle.

3. If he who circulates such rumors
should join one of our churches, and then
falsify, backbite, get drunk, or steal, we
should be pleased to give him a practical
refutation of his unholy charges against us
as a people — we should open our back door
and send him out an expelled member. Then
he might judge for himself as to the mean-
ing of this great principle of the CHRISTIANS.

I hope this answer may serve to correct
the rumors to which you allude, and so give
your mind relief in that direction, With

FACING THE TRUTH. 105

many pleasant recollections of your now
sainted mother, and with best wishes for
yourself, permit me to subscribe myself,
Your sincere friend,

T. M. RlCKSON.

She read the letter, and then took it to
her father, saying :

" I thought you were mistaken, in your
opinion of the CHRISTIANS. That letter
clears up the case fully."

" Ah, yes, child, you might have expected
him to put it in that way so as to satisfy
you long enough to get you to join his
church."

" Indeed, I did not even intimate that I
was expecting to join his church. My re-
quest was simply for the facts, and he has
satisfied me."

" Then you have fully decided to leave
the Baptists and join the O'Kellyites, have
you ?"

" No, father, I have not left my church —
I was driven from it, and that without mercy.
But please tell me whom you mean by
O'Kellyites ?"

io6 IOLA; OR,

" Why I mean that sect you propose to

> »
join.

"But that is not their name; they call
themselves Christians— simply that, and
nothing more."

" I call them O'Kellyites — that is good
enough for them."

11 Well, I think you might call them by
the name they choose to wear. You are a
great admirer of the Rev. Dr. Curry, a lead-
ing Baptist minister of Virginia, and I heard
him say once that it was not right to nick-
name any people ; that we ought to respect
them and ourselves enough to call them by
the name they choose to wear. He is good
authority among the Baptists. I think he
is right."

"But are you, Iola, going to join them?"

11 I think they are the most scriptural of
any of the denominations with which I am
acquainted, and of course that means I am
looking to them for a church home. Yes,
my mind is settled on that."

"Alas, alas!" Mr. Graham exclaimed, and
left Iola alone.

That afternoon new light was given. In
her mother's trunk Iola found a small book

FACING THE TRUTH. 107

called " The Declaration of Principles and
Form of Government for the Christians."
It was just what she wished, and she eagerly
perused it from beginning to end, with the
Bible and concordance to test the truth of
all she found in its pages. Each step slowly,
but surely, confirmed her convictions.

A week later, Mr. Graham was in an un-
usually pleasant temper, and seemingly
much concerned for his daughter's happi-
ness.

" Iola, my child," he said, ''you have been
so long at home alone, and under such try-
ing circumstances, would you not like to
visit Hollins Institute, and spend a few
weeks with your old teachers and school
friends?"

This so surprised her that she could not
answer at once, remembering, as she must,
how her father had been so displeased at her
course of late. She could not expect so
much kindness. At length she answered :

" Father, many thanks for your kindness,
but I do not feel just ready for such a visit."

She, innocent girl that she was, did not
suspect his motive. The truth was, he wished
to get her under old influences, where she

108 IOLA; OR,

had been educated, hoping that she might
be induced to renounce the " open com-
munion craze," as he had not very ele-
gantly expressed it. When she declined he
was disappointed.

He decided upon another plan. This time
he proposed to take her to visit some of his
relatives in the city of R . Iola still de-
clined, with thanks, assigning as a reason,
that she, in her present state of mind, could
enjoy retirement more than society. Of
course, this was also a disappointment. Iola
was his only child — he felt something must
be done to save her to the Baptists. His last
resort was determined upon only to see it
fail. It came in this manner :

" Iola," said Mr. Graham, "to-morrow I
expect company to dine with us. Give us a
dinner worthy of our guest and I promise
you a handsome present."

"Who will be the visitor, father?" asked
the unsuspecting girl.

" Dr. Jenkins, my pastor," was the reply.
Iola at once saw the plan. She believed,
how justly may be determined by the sequel,
that Dr. Jenkins had been sent for to make
a studied attack upon her open communion

FACING THE TRUTH. 109

views, and if possible bring her back to the
Baptist faith.

Mr. Graham was very agreeable through
that day, and the next, till dinner had been
served, when he gracefully excused himself
to meet a " pressing engagement," leaving
Iola to entertain Dr. Jenkins for the after-
noon.

Chapter XVI,

UN good faith the innocent girl undertook
the task of entertaining the Doctor,
though suspecting the end of her father's
"pressing engagement."

Only a few words were exchanged in a
general way, when Dr. Jenkins introduced
the subject of her recent expulsion from
Broad Creek Baptist church. He mildly re-
buked her for holding views, which, accord-
ing to Baptist usage, made her expulsion
necessary.

" Dr. Jenkins," said Iola, " I acted from
principle, after a careful and patient study
of the Bible touching the whole matter, and

I IO IOLA; OR,

I do not regret the results so far, except, of
course, it is unpleasant, painfully so, for a
motherless girl, just entering the realm of
womanhood, to have to submit to expulsion
from her church."

" My dear young friend," responded the
Doctor, " you have allowed the thoughts
and opinions of others under very trying
circumstances to work upon your feelings,
and finally upon your mind, till you have
been led away from your church — the only
apostolic church."

" Beg your pardon, Doctor. You are mis-
taken. The thoughts of others had nothing
to do with my actions. A very bitter per-
sonal experience induced me to study God's
word. In doing so, I saw clearly the heart-
less oppression to the conscience of the be-
liever, in the rules of my church. Because I
could not endorse such regulations, the
church expelled me."

" But, Miss Iola, you speak in ignorance. A
Baptist church is the only scriptural church.
If you leave us ."

11 Leave you ! I have not left you. The
church forced me to leave — the act was not

FACING THE TRUTH. Ill

mine, and, of course, I must have a church
home some where."

11 Well, where can you go — what church
will you join?"

" When opportunity is given, I expect to
join the CHRISTIANS."

" Why, I thought you were objecting to
us because of what you regard as selfishness
in us, and I am sure that sect is the most
selfish known among the denominations."

" How do you make that, Doctor ?"

" Why their very name shows it, they call
themselves the Christian church, and thereby
imply that other churches are not Christian.
If there be any deeper selfishness than that,
I have not found it."

" I am sorry you are not better informed,
Doctor."

"What do you mean, Miss?"
14 I mean simply this : When you say
the Christians in any way intimate that
they only are disciples of Christ you show a
lack of information not creditable to a min-
ister of your standing. So far from what
you claim, the contrary is true. They re-
cognize and fellowship as brethren all who
give a credible evidence of a christian life.

I 1 IOLA ; OR,

They are also anxious that all followers of
the Saviour should recognize themselves as
christians."

Recognize themselves as christians? What
do you mean ?"

''I mean you'do not recognize your people
as Christians* but as Baptists."

" There you are far from the truth," an-
swered the Doctor. "We do recognize our-
selves as christians, but then we call ourselves
Baptists."

" But, Doctor, can there be any good in
that ?"

" Oh, yes ! — it is distinctive."

" How is it distinctive?"

" Why, in this way, it separates us from
the rest of God's people."

" But, sir, what good can there be in that ?"

" What good in it ? Why it keeps us to
ourselves — separated from christians who
differ from us."

"What can that accomplish?"

" Oh, it helps us to preserve our identity
and keeps the Baptists in tact."

" How long will it do that, you think ?"

"Till— well, a-h-e-m! I-I-I-I don't
know," doubtfully answered the preacher.

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 1 3

"Certainly not when you enter Heaven,
for I heard Dr. Hartwell, a missionary to
China, while on a visit to this country, de-
scribe the death bed scene of a Presbyterian
missionary in that far-off land. He repre-
sented him as a christian soldier dying in the
triumphs of a living faith. He believed that
Presbyterian went to Heaven, or he did not
believe his own statement. Again, I heard
a leading Baptist minister speak of a Metho-
dist layman, who had just died, as "a warm
hearted christian man, whose life bore living
testimony to the truth and purity of his
work and character in Christ." Said the
Baptist minister, " I believe he is at rest.
He was ready and willing to depart and be
with Christ." Now, Doctor, I should like to
know what good your people can get from a
name which, at best, can only serve to keep
you separated from other disciples of our
Lord Jesus Christ?"

" I admit some are saved who are not Bap-
tists, but we think our duty requires us to
walk only with them with whom we are
agreed."

" That, Doctor, reminds me of the ' whims'
of two families of boys, who would not as-

114 IOLA; OR,

sociate together while in the preparatory
school, though they knew when they entered
the higher school they would be compelled
to associate. In this probationary state —
in this life, where all Christians are prepar-
ing for Heaven — the Baptists will not fellow-
ship the larger portion of those whose robes
have been washed and made whiter than
snow in that fountain opened for sin and
uncleanness, — the blood of Jesus, — although
they know in Heaven they will fellowship
the very saints whom on earth they re-
fused."

" It may seem inconsistent to you, but we,
at any rate, are satisfied. Our methods and
regulations suit our purposes quite well."

11 I admit that ; but tell me, does it suit
God to have a part of his children, for whom
Christ died, act in that way towards others,
for whose salvation Christ also died?

11 Further, Doctor, when you married you
were the bridegroom and your wife the bride.
Then the wife was married to the bride-
groom ; and as such what was she called, by
her maiden name, or was she called Mrs.
Jenkins, in honor of the bridegroom to whom
she had been married ?"

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 1 5

" Why, Mrs. Jenkins, of course."

" Now, then, do not the scriptures repre-
sent Christ as the bridegroom and the Church
as his bride ? As such, is not the Church
married to Christ?"

"Certainly; that is a plain Biblical fact,
but what of it ?"

" Well, if the Church, the bride, is married
to Christ, the bridegroom, ought not the
Church to be called in the name of the
groom ?"

"That depends," said the Doctor —

" Upon what ?" quickly asked Iola.

" If the heart be right, it matters little as
to what name is worn."

11 Oh, yes ! I see now — I understand what
you mean. If your wife is in heart devoted
to you, that is all that is necessary ; she need
not wear your name, some other man's name
will do just as well for her."

"A-h-e-m, not exactly — I did not mean
just that."

"Ah! Indeed, the case is parallel —
the principle is just the same. I think the
Saviour has more right to complain at
his church for not wearing his name than
you would if your wife should refuse to be

Ii6 IOLA ; OR,

called Mrs. Jenkins and claim to be Mrs.
Joy. I think you would justly complain, and
yet that is just what your people do ; being
Christ's bride, they refuse to be called by
his name, and call themselves Baptists."

" Well, I believe the name Baptist is right,
and that is enough."

11 Right, did you say, Doctor? Then all
I ask, to justify your claim, is to show me
Bible authority for it — name the book, chap-
ter and verse where it may be found, and I
will vield."

"But I told you we claim to be Christians,
though we call ourselves Baptists."

" Now I see your case exactly. Mr. Edi-
son invented an electric machine, and he put
his name on it. In a few weeks another
man took Mr. Edison's machine and put his
name over that of the inventor, so obscuring
it and giving prominence to the name of the
second man. Was there any justice in that ?"
asked Iola.

44 Certainly not. It was down right injus-
tice.

" Yes, I think so. But, Doctor, is not that
what your people are doing? Jesus Christ
established his church and put his- name on-, it*

FACING THE TRUTH. I 1 7

Now you leave his name there and brand over
it the word Baptist, thereby well nigh bring-
ing into disuse among your people the name
Christian, and making very prominent the
name Baptist!'

" Why not that way?"

" My dear sir, is there any comparison ?
The name Christian is in honor of Him who
suffered and died for our salvation, while the
name Baptist simply points to an ordinance
in the church."

Chapter XVII.

jj^UT what is in a name? 'A rose called
jyj! by another name smells just as sweet.'
Sc, though a christian be called Baptist, he
may be just as good as if he were called by
the proper name."

"A sin is a sin," said Iola. " If I call a
rose a lilac that may not change its sweet
fragrance, but it does misrepresent both the
rose and the lilac, and a misrepresentation is
a lie, I say it advisedly. So if the flower
smells as sweet, that gives us no right to

Il8 IOLA; OR,

name it falsely. Besides, what is the neces-
sity for such a change? If a rose is a rose,
whv call it a lilac? So, if a man is a ckris-
tian what benefit is gained by calling him a
Baptist r

"With me it is a notion that suits me — I
am satisfied."

" So you claim to be one thing and wish
to appear to be another, — that is, you profess
to be a christian but you prefer to be known
as a Baptist."

" Well, what if I do ?" asked the Doctor.

"Why the etymology of the two words
shows that they cannot possibly mean the
same thing. A Baptist is one character'and
a christian is another, etymologically speak-
ing," said the young girl.

"As to the etymology that may be, but
usage has made the word Baptist mean a
follower of Christ."

" But, sir, shall usage supplant words and
forms of speech that are directly from the
Master? What Paul said to Timothy, did he
not also say to you? — " Hold fast the form
of sound words which thou hast heard of me!"

"What do you mean by words directly
from the Master?"

FACING THE TRUTH. II9

Doctor, I hold that the Bible shows us
that God's people ought to be called CHRIS-
TIANS, after Christ, and not Baptists, after
an ordinance of the church."

"You are very positive. How do you
know that your statement is true?"

" Well, sir, since I was expelled from the
Baptists because of my open communion
views, I have studied the matter very care-
fully and prayerfully and I am satisfied the
Bible justifies that statement"

" Can you show me how it does that — how
the Bible shows that God wishes his people
to be called Christians?" evidently believing
that the young girl had made the statement
without comprehending its scope.

" I think I can," she answered : ." In Acts
11: 26, latter clause, are these words: 'And
the disciples were called Christians first in
Antioch." '

" Bless the child," said the Doctor, " that
is just what I expected you to say. That is
a misapplication of the scripture, for the
name was given to the disciples by their
enemies in derision, and was never intended
by God to be a name for his people."

120 iola; OR,

" I think you are mistaken, Doctor. The
Greek translated " were called," in the text
just quoted, shows it was done by divine
direction. Elsewhere, too, the same Greek
word, clirematizo, is used to express that
which is done by divine authority. It is
nowhere used in the scriptures in any other
sense."

" Are you sure of that ? Do you know
Greek ?"

" I have studied Greek some, so I am sure I
am right. You may take your Greek Testa-
ment and you will find what I have said is
true. I will help you. Turn to Matt. 2: 12,
22 ; Acts 10 : 22 ; Heb. 8 : 5, Heb. 11:7. In
all these passages the root of this word is
used, in one form or another and shows that
the action was of divine authority."

" Upon examination I find that is true,
except the word Theou — " of God" — is not
in the Greek at all, so you fail to show what
you claim."

Ves, Doctor, but in every passage I have
quoted our translators supplied it, as though
it were there, and properly so, I think, for
the words used in these various passages,

FACING THE TRUTH. 121

meaning to give divine sanction, instruction
or authority, clearly imply the phrase "cf
God." If this is done in the passages
quoted — and it is — why not supply it also in
Acts 1 1 : 26 where the same Greek word is
used? Then it would read: "And the disci-
ples were called of God Christians first in
Antioch."

" That is quite well done for a girl, but
you leave a doubt, — ought that " of God" to
be supplied at all ?"

" I think so, Doctor, but I can manage
facts better than I can Greek, and I think
you can understand them as well. So I will
sustain my Greek by showing you that the
giving of the name Christian is a fulfillment
of prophecy."

11 A fulfillment of prophecy, indeed !
Where is the prophecy? Show it to me."

In Isaiah 62: 1,2, the Prophet is fore-
telling the establishment of Christ's kingdom
in the world — when the Gentiles shall be ad-
mitted into his church. In the second verse
the prophet says :

"And the Gentiles shall see thy righteous-
ness and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt
be called by a new name which the mouth

122 IOLA ; OR,

of the Lord shall name." " Beyond all
reasonable doubt this refers to the opening
of the church of God to the Gentiles."
"I grant that, but what if it does?"
" Very much, sir. Go with me now, Doc-
tor, to Acts 10: 45, last clause. It reads :
* * " On the Gentiles also was poured
out the Holy Gho:t," clearly proving that
this was the time to which Isaiah alluded in
the passage quoted above. In the next
chapter and verse 26, immediately following
the introduction of the Gentiles into the
gospel church, the new name which the Lord
had promised, in connection with his right-
eousness, was given — and the disciples were
called Christians first in Antioch. This was
done, if we may believe the words of the
prophet and the meaning of the Greek, by
divine authoritv or direction. Then if the
Greek translated " were called," shows that
the calling was done by divine authority;
and if the prophet said the Gentiles should
be admitted into the Church of Christ, and
that then a new name should be given his
people by the mouth of the Lord; and, if
the Gentiles were admitted at that time,
and the name Christian was given just

FACING THE TRUTH. 123

then to the disciples, I ask, in all candor,
does not the Bible sustain me when I say
God's people ought to be called CHRIS-
TIANS ?"

11 I must confess. Iola, that there is more
scriptural ground for your position than I
had known before. I never saw that proph-
ecy and its fulfillment in that light. If you
are right, I am quite sure there was a reason
for the new name. God does nothing with-
out a reason. So far I have never seen any
reason for a new name."

11 Oh ! there is a reason, and a very good
one, Doctor."

" Well, let me have it then."

u You know the Jews and Gentiles hated
each other. When the Gentiles came into the
church it introduced not only anew, but an
objectionable, element. The Gentiles would
certainly not be willing to be called Jews,
and the Jews would not be willing to be
called Gentiles, hence, in order to have peace
in a church composed of both Jews and Gen-
tiles, old party names must be given up and
some new name substituted — one to which
neither Jew nor Gentile could object. The
new name CHRISTIAN was therefore given.

124 IOLA ; OR,

It was given by the mouth of the Lord, be-
cause, if a Jew had given it, the Gentiles
would not have worn it ; and, if by a Gentile,
the Jews would not. When the mouth of the
Lord named the Church, none wished to
object — I. Because of the Author of the
name ; and 2, because of the name itself. It
had no Jewish feature in it, nor did it savor
of heathenism. It swept clear of sects and
parties, and pointed only to Christ. Here
the God-given name has a decided advantage
over sect and party names. Take for an ex-
ample the name Baptist. It represents but
one idea, and that belonging to controver-
sials theology ; it unduly exalts an ordi-
nance in the church, and has under usage
come to be suggestive of strife and conten-
tion. But the name CHRISTIAN represents
all that is precious in Christianity, and calls
up before the mind God in his love, Christ
in his self-sacrifice, Christian fellowship with
its tender and elevating influences, and
Heaven in all its glory. Around it clusters
all that is grand and inspiring in the whole
system of salvation."

" I confess," said the Doctor, " you have
shown your side to decided advantage. But

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 25

it is not practicable, for usage has made
other names more common appellations for
the people of God, so I do not see how you
can hope to stand with so much against
you."

" Indeed, sir, I think I can hope to stand
with the Bible. I have regarded Baptists
as staunch defenders of the Bible, noted for
taking what it says. Now if the Bible does
not authorize your name, how can you wear
it with an easy conscience?"

" We have no trouble on that point,
though the Bible may not authorize the
name Baptist as it does Christian!'' /(

" If you admit that, then you ought to do
as I have done, and mean to do, renounce
the name Baptist and wear only the name
CHRISTIAN. If the Bible does not authorize
the name we should not use it. Devout and
great men, even in the earliest times have
expressed clearly this opinion. Cyprian, one
of the Latin fathers said : " God has testi-
fied that we are to do those things that are
written ; whence have you that tradition ?"
Cyril, who lived in the fourth century, said :
" It behooveth us not to believe the very
least thing of the sacred mysteries of faith

126 IOLA ; ok,

without the Holy Scriptures." Jerome, who
lived in the fifth century, said: "Those
things which without the authority of the
scriptures, men invent of their own heads, as
from Apostolic traditions, are smitten of
God." One of the martyrs of olden times
said ; " I had rather follow the shadow of
Christ than the body of all the general coun-
cils or doctors, since the death of Christ."
So, Doctor, if the scriptures do not authorize
the name Baptist, I do not see how you can
consistently wear it, knowing that the name
Christian was given by the mouth of the
Lord. We ought not to fight against God."

11 Oh, you ought not to clamor so much
for the name Christian — that belongs to us
all." / if'

" Yes, Doctor, I gladly admit that, but
why do you not wear it since it is yours?"

11 Because other names suit us better. Be-
sides Baptist is a scriptural name. I can
show you my authority from the Bible for
that."

11 Please do so, Doctor, I am anxious to
see it.

" Very well. Turn to Matt. 3: I. John
is spoken of as a Baptist. He had many

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 27

disciples and of course they were Baptists,
too.

" I admit all of that, but the point you
make is against you."

" How, I would be glad to know?"
Well, in this way: John the Baptist was
the forerunner of Jesus, hence his work was
not under the Christian dispensation at all.
Then John's disciples were not converts to
Christ."

" How do you know they were not?"
" I know it, sir, because the Bible tells me
they were not."

" Please give me book, chapter and verse."
11 Read Acts 19: 1-6, sir. That will satis-
fy you beyond question."
Turning to it, he read :
11 And it came to pass, that, while Apollos
was at Corinth, Paul having passed through
the upper coasts came to Ephesus ; and
finding certain disciples, he said unto them,
Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye
believed? And they said unto him, We have
not so much as heard whether there be any
Holy Ghost. And he (Paul) said unto them,
unto what then were ye baptized? And they
said, unto John's baptism. Then said Paul,

128 IOLA; OR,

John verily baptized with the baptism of
repentance, saying unto the people, that
they should believe on him which should
come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus.
And when they heard this, they were bap-
tized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And
when Paul had laid his hands on them, the
Holy Ghost came on them ; and they spake
with tongues and prophesied."

" Do you believe it now, Doctor?" she
asked with the brightness of conscious vic-
tory beaming from her eyes.

" Yes, you are right there, they were sim-
ply disciples of John the Baptist."

" Now, then, your scriptural authority for
wearing the name Baptist, please ?"

" There is no Biblical authority, I believe,
but the devotion with which our people have
fought for baptism by immersion entitles us
to the name."

11 Then it is the devotion of your people
to immersion, as the mode of baptism, that
gives them the Baptist name, and not the
Bible. As a name it simply expresses their
relationship to baptism."

"I will admit that?"

" That is not Bible doctrine. I wish to

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 29

join a church whose name is expressive of
the relationship we bear to Christ, as the
Saviour of the world — a name given by the
mouth of the Lord. I hope soon to be a
member of a church whose name is all of
that."

" But the name is of little consequence, if
the heart is right in the sight of the Lord."

" Do you mean to say the name chosen by
the mouth of the Lord is of little conse-
quence?"

<l I would not say that, but I think I can
serve the Lord and be called a Baptist." >r

"So can your bosom companion be your
wife and yet wear a name not your own, but
that would not please you. You see a name
does mean something."

"Oh! that is all a notion of yours, Iola."

" Perhaps it is, but let us examine the
matter. When I say George Washington,
what do I mean ?"

" You mean the first President of the Uni-
ted States."

" How do you know I do ?"

'' Because the name shows it."

" But, Doctor, did you not say a name
meant nothing?"

5

130 IOLA; OR,

" I did, but of course, in this case it does
mean a certain character."

" If so in this, why not in other cases?"

"To a certain extent it is, but any other
man might be called George Washington
and then it would not mean the same thing."

"That but confirms the idea I am pre-
senting. I claim that the character of the
first President of the United States gives a
meaning and power to his name, and then
that name becomes his representative. So
the character of a christian and the name
combined gives meaning and power, and
that name becomes the representative of the
pure and godly life of the person wearing it.
The name of a follower of Christ does mean
something."

11 1 think you are making a hobby of the
name idea," said Dr. Jenkins.

" Before you condemn me, let me illustrate
my idea yet further. When I speak of an
American, whom do you understand me to
mean, Doctor ?"

'• Certainly a native or naturalized citizen
of America."

" But how do you know that I do not

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 3 t

mean a native and present resident of
France ?"

"Oh! that is clear enough. You never
could get the name American to mean a
Frenchman."

" Why not, sir?"

" Because the name shows what is meant ?"

" But you say a name signifies little."

" That is true in some cases, while in
others its meaning is plain."

" I see now," said Iola, " you mean to say
that it matters little as to what a boy is
named; John or William will not change his
character, but when the name is the out-
growth of one's character or nationality, as
in the case of an American, the name does
signify very much. Is that your idea, Doc-
tor?"

" Exactly that !"

" Very well, sir. Is not the name Chris-
tian the outgrowth of the character of the
person wearing it?"

11 Certainly it is."

"Then you admit that the name Christian
does signify much?"

" I cheerfully admit that it signifies a fol-
lower of Christ, Iola."

132 iola; oft,

May I ask you, Doctor, is not the name
Baptist of the same class of names as that
of Christian? That is, it is the outgrowth of
distinctive features in the character of the
person wearing it."

" That is true, my young friend. I think
you begin to see the matter in its proper

light."

"So you admit that the name Baptist, as
applied to your people, does signify very
much ?"

"Yes, indeed. It signifies"

" But stop, if you please, Doctor. I wish
to ask you to give the significance of the
name Baptist, both from the etymology of
the word and from the character of those
wearing it."

" I will do so with pleasure, and to make
the matter short, from both standpoints, it
simply means a believer in baptism by im-
mersion."

" That is it, sir, I suppose. Now I have
the difference in the people represented by
the two names as taken down from your
own lips. You say :

"A christian is a follower ot Christ."

" Yes, that is true."

Facing the truth.

i33

" And you also say that a Baptist is a be-
liever in baptism by immersion only."

" That is correct, also."

" Now, then, which would you prefer,
to be known as a follower of Christ, or
as a believer in baptism by immersion
only ? You see the name of the follower of
Christ — christian — points to Christ as the
central thought of our hope of salvation ;
while the name of the believer in baptism
by immersion only — Baptist — points to bap-
tism as the central idea of that people, with^
out necessary reference to Christ or Chris-
tianity."

" You must give me a little time to con-
sider my answer to that point. I wish al-
ways to be found on the side of the
Saviour."

Chapter XVIII.

YfY;HEN, Doctor, while you consider, I will
§§AJ§ say this: According to your statement
of the significance of these names, and I think
you are right, the name Baptist draws atten-

134 iola; or,

tion away from Jesus and fixes it on a mere
religious rite, and this rite may be christian
or heathen, while the name Christian, chosen
and given by the mouth of the Lord, points
the believer away from earth and self to
Christ and Heaven. I rejoice in the hope
of soon being a member of a church whose
name cannot be misunderstood by any Eng-
lish speaking people, for the English lan-
guage cannot prevent the name CHRISTIAN
from meaning a follower of Christ. Other
denominations may mislead by wearing
party names, since the English meaning of
their names indicate, as they do, merely
human organizations. For instance, the
name Lutheran means a follower of
Luther. Episcopalian implies an adhe-
rent to a form of government, etc. These
names are confusing and misleading. They
are wholly unnecessary, when we have given
us by the mouth of the Lord, a name at
once beautiful and so expressive of our rela-
tionship to Christ— C H Rl S TI AN. I am
thrilled at the thought, and I wonder who,
that feels his or her sins forgiven, could look
Jesus in the face and say I am a Baptist, or

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 35

Lutheran, or Episcopalian, rather than say
I am a Christian?"

" But, Iola, you must remember we need
some distinctive name, and Christian is not
distinctive."

" Alas ! my dear sir, there are but two
classes in the world, Christians and sinners,
and when a person is a Christian I think that
sufficiently tells where he is and to which
class he belongs — it is simple and plain — it
is enough. God gave his church this new
name, and placed it above party influences,
outside of ordinances or forms of govern-
ment, knowing how hurtful these would be
to his cause. He therefore gave a name
truly and strictly in honor of the great Head
of the Church — Jesus Christ."

" You seem to think the name CHRISTIAN
worn by the church militant would add much
to its peace and harmony."

" Yes, if, in wearing it, they would do so
exclusively — leaving off the names of par-
ties and sects. There is ro question but
that the name of a people does more to
bring harmony of opinion among them than
any other one thing. It is a well known
fact, Doctor, that your people — the Bap-

136 IOLA; OR,

tists — are far from being united on many
important points of doctrine, and yet under
the name Baptist they live in peace among
themselves. Let me illustrate my idea : A
comes into your church. He believes the
doctrine of free grace, rejecting predestina-
tion. He is an immersionist, and nothing
is said : you fellowship him — he is a brother.
Now here is another disciple, B. He is a
Methodist, but believes in baptism by im-
mersion, was immersed by a descendant of
Ezekiel Holliman, baptistically speaking,
but does not believe in predestination. With
him the Baptist brethren often dispute on
that subject, accusing him of unsoundness
in the faith. Now, why this difference in
their conduct toward A and B? Both be-
lieve in free grace, and both believe in and
practice immersion, Then, why is it? Mani-
festly because one is called Baptist and the
other Methodist. I am quite sure if all had
been called CHRISTIAN, there would have
been no trouble, or strife, or division among
them. This establishes my. claim — party
names in the church lead to strife and divis-
ion and sin. In fact, I believe party names
are a curse to the church to-day, just as the

FACING THE TRUTH. I37

Jewish name was to the Jews when they re-
fused to accept the new name which the
mouth of the Lord had given them. In
Isaiah 6$: 15 (read the whole chapter), he
says to these unbelieving Jews: "And ye
shall leave your name for a curse unto my
chosen, for the Lord God shall slay thee,
and call his servants by another name" —
Christian. So, Doctor, I feel that the disci-
ples of Jesus who to-day hold on to these
party names instead of accepting the God-
given name, find them a curse to their
spiritual life, in the strife and division kept
up among God's children."

" Then you believe the name is a power
for good or bad, for union or disunion."

" Yes, sir. Were all God's people to-day
called by the new name, divinely given as it is,
in all probability nine-tenths of the division
and strife among the various churches would
never be heard of again. Of this the Chris-
tian Church furnishes a beautiful exam-
ple."

" I do not see how it does," added the
Doctor.

" In this way, sir. The motto of the or-
ganization is this : ' In Essentials, Unity; in

138 IOLA; OR,

Non-essentials, Liberty ; in all things, Char-
ity' You see we all accept the essential or
fundamental doctrines of the Bible as one
man ; but when mere matters of opinion
touching minor points come up, we give all
liberty. They study and decide these matters
for themselves, meanwhile we endeavor to
be charitable to all and under all circum-
stances. In matters of opinion they differ
often, in kindness, but in these they are as
far from doctrinal strife and division as the
east is from the west Their success in this
is due largely to the fact that they wear the
name of whom the whole family in Heaven
and earth is named — CHRISTIAN."

"But as I have before said, Iola, taste has
much to do with a name."

"■Can you tell me, Doctor, a name that
would be in better taste; a name more ap-
propriate for the disciples of Christ — than
Christian?"

"Of course it is in good taste, even appro-
priate. Since you seem so wedded to this
new faith, please tell me something of its
history and leading principles outside of the
name."

" I will do so. From what I can gather

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 39

the organization dates from Aug. 4, 1794.
Rev. James O'Kelly, a giant among the
Methodist preachers in his day, found the
autocratic powers of the Bishop so distaste-
ful to his sense of liberty in Christ that he
withdrew from those brethren, and, after
various conference meetings without any
permanent organization, in a meeting held
at Lebanon church in Surry county, Va., on
the 4th day of August 1794, Rev. Rice Hag-
gard arose and proposed that the brethren
adopt the name CHRISTIAN to the exclusion
of all party or sectarian names, and so put
themselves on scriptural grounds. The mo-
tion prevailed and the few followers of Christ
went out from that meeting determined no
more to wear a sect name. A short time
after this a similar movement among the
Presbyterians in the west followed, and the
same is true of the Baptists of New Eng-
land. Thus it seems that a great upheaval
against bigotry was in progress. The Metho-
dists of the south, the Presbyterians of the
west and the Baptists of New England, were
moving to a common center. At length
each movement heard of the other. A mu-
tual correspondence, followed, and, strange

140 IOLA; OR,

as it may seem, when these Methodists and
Presbyterians and Baptists came together
they found that they were already one in
Christ. From the year 1800 to this present
time they have laboied for the spread of the
gospel among men without the help of a
sectarian name. They have labored in the
unity of the spirit, showing that no reason
exists why Baptists and Presbyterians and
other sects may not unite in christian work
under the divinely appointed name CHRIS-
TIAN. In this respect no movement since
the days of Martyn Luther has been more
remarkable, in fact it is perhaps without a
parallel since the day of Pentecost when
Parthians, Medes and Elamites, with many
others, under the spirit's influence came to-
gether and with one accord labored for the
glory of God and the salvation of souls. So
the movement from its very incipiency
seemed to gather to itself men of different
sect views, so pointing to the healing of the
wounds strife and division had made in the
church of Christ."

11 That is remarkable, Iola, to say the least
of it, if it be true."

" If it be true ! The facts I have given

FACING THE TRUTH. 141

you, history will sustain without a doubt."
"But, Iola, I am anxious to know some-
thing of their leading principles. Principles
are of more vital importance to you in this
instance than history. A pretty history
does not signify soundness of faith."

"Well, Doctor, I will take pleasure in dis-
cussing with you their cardinal principles.
They hold that as followers of our Lord
they ought to show their love to God and
men and their relationship and faithfulness
to Christ in their name, practice, character
and principles.

"So they start out with the following:

I. CHRIST is the only Head of the church.

II. We wear no name but Christian.

III. The BIBLE is our guide and only rule
of faith and practice.

IV. Christian character is our only test of
fellowship and of church membership.

V. The right of private judgment and the
liberty of conscience is accorded to all^

" Wellj Iola, do I understand you to say
that you can join the CHRISTIANS simply
upon the basis of a christian character, re-
gardless of the candidate's views of baptism
and the Lord's supper?"

142 IOLA; OR,

"Yes, sir. If a man gives a credible evi-
dence of his acceptance with God and lives
a christian life so far as can be known from
his daily walk, they receive him without
prescribing the mode of his baptism. After
he has joined the church he can be baptized
by immersion, or pouring, or sprinkling, as
his conscience may demand."

"I am surprised at you, Iola."

"Why, Doctor?"

"You were raised by a Baptist father,
educated in a Baptist school, baptized in a
Baptist church, and now to think of joining
a people, holding such views, I am surprised
at you !

" Well, sir, will you please state your ob
jections to this people?"

" They are many. Christian character is
a good thing, but other things can not be
neglected. Baptism is essential to church
membership."

" Where is your authority for this state-
ment ?"

"The ordinance was instituted for that
purpose and should be so observed. When
you receive a man by pouring or sprinkling,
you violate God's law,"

FACING THE TRUTH. 143

I do not think that is true. The Bible
nowhere says so, and besides, I have good
baptist authority for my side of the ques-
tion. John Bunyan was a grand good man
and a Baptist. He says in his: 'A Reason
of My Practice in Worship,' there is none
debarred, nor threatened to be cut off from
the church if they be not baptized ; neither
doth it give to the person baptized a being
of membership with this or that church by
whose members he was baptized."

'"But, Iola, he was not a good Baptist — he
was unsound in our faith."

"Yea, I dare say he was not, but he was a
good christian and sound in the faith once
delivered to the saints. I think his opinions
are sustained by the Bible and accord with
the spirit of Christianity."

II Immersion only is baptism."

" Can you, Doctor, give me one case of
baptism by immersion, as administered by
the disciples of Jesus?"

" Certainly, a dozen if you wish them."

" One will do, sir."

"Very well, — turn to' Acts 8; 38, here we
find that Phillip baptized the Eunuch."

11 Was it by immersion ?"

144 10LA; OK,

"Certainly — no doubt about that."

" How do you know ?"

" Because it says so. Baptized means im-
mersed."

" If so, then the baptism of the Eunuch
presents a remarkable case," said Iola.

" How is it remarkable?"

" Well, sir, if the unwritten law of Mason-
ry should direct its chief officer to receive
new members under certain forms and cere-
monies, do you think he would receive them
according to directions, or would he choose
some new plan of his own?"

11 Of course, he would follow the unwritten
law, but what can that have to do with the
question under consideration ?"

" Very much, perhaps. Philip was preach-
ing to the Eunuch, not from an unwritten
law, but from the written. The Eunuch
was reading from the prophecy of Isaiah.
The passage was this: ' He (Christ) was led
as a sheep to the slaughter, etc.' We are
then told that Philip began at this same
scripture and preached unto him Jesus, after
which the Eunuch was baptized. Now in
the very same paragraph — in the latter part
of the preceding chapter — the prophet is

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 45

telling of the work Jesus will do when he
comes, and he says, " So shall he (Christ)
sprinkle many nations" — Isaiah 52: 15.

" Now the Eunuch learned his duty from
Philip. Philip's text was taken from a
paragraph in the scriptures in which it is
declared that Jesus shall sprinkle many na-
tions, etc." — that is under the gospel dispen-
sation. So I say it would be indeed re-
markable, if with a written law declaring in
favor of sprinkling, and Philip preaching
from that law, the Eunuch should learn of
immersion as the only door into the church.
With this law written so plainly, it is hard
to see how it is so much misunderstood. It
is hard to see how Philip could teach from
that scripture immersion, and yet harder to
see how the Eunuch ever learned immersion'
to be the only mode of baptism ; still just
after reading it and hearing a sermon
preached from it he was baptized — how ?"

" Oh ! Isaiah is talking of another matter
there."

" No sir, I maintain that the meaning of
the Hebrew word here translated " sprinkle,"
is to sprinkle with water as a symbol of

146 IOLA ; OR,

purification. This answers to our idea of
baptism."

"But I insist that immersion is essential
to church membership. The Bible says so,"
he declared.

11 1 see you do not answer my arguments,
Doctor, before you go on to something else.
Is it because you can not?"

" No, but I insist that the Bible is with
me.

" Very well, but please tell me how Philip
and the Eunuch made that word sprinkle
mean im merse ? ' '

" I am following the New Testament, my-
self."

" Does that sustain you ? If so, where?"

"It does, Iola. In Mark 16: 16, we read :
1 He that believeth and is baptized shall be
saved ; but he that believeth not shall be
damned.' "

)' Yes sir, but it does not say that because
one is not baptized he shall be lost. It says
that only of those who do not believe. So
belief, and not baptism, is essential to salva-
tion, and the CHRISTIANS are noted as be-
lievers. As to pouring and sprinkling I do

FACING THE TRUTH. I47

not see that the passage you quote from
Mark is against either."

" Indeed, Iola ! I am surprised, pained, to
hear such language fall from your lips. Bap-
tize means to immerse."

11 Perhaps, but you have not yet shown
me how Philip and the Eunuch made
sprinkle mean immerse."

" The Greek word baptidzo means im-
merse only, and that is enough."

" I question that, too, Doctor."

" What, in the face of the word itself ?
Modern scholarship and the learned men of
all denominations, agree that it means im-
merse."

" Now, Doctor. I have two things to say.
First as to the learned men. I have heard
that time and again. I use to think it was
true. I have enquired, and the state-
ment is not supported by facts. The
learned men of other denominations do not
agree to such a thing. As to the meaning
of the word itself, I wish to say that upon
actual examination of Liddell and Scott's
Greek Lexicon, I find it means to dip re-
peatedly, to dip, to pour, to sprinkle. With
all these meanings coming to us from the

148 IOLA ; OR,

Greek, the CHRISTIANS say it is impossible
for human learning to determine positively
the mode of baptism. Good and great men
have always differed here. So there is no
reasonable hope of agreement. Hence they
allow the liberty of conscience as to the
mode, and they avoid the bitter strife which
controversy on that subject is sure to bring."

" But, pray tell me what has baptism to
do with the conscience? It is a command
and not a matter of conscience at all," said
he, with emphasis.

" Peter differs from you about that. In
I Peter 3: 21, we read that it is the answer
of a good conscience toward God. Hence
the Christians say to applicants for mem-
bership in their church : As to the mode of
baptism, that is a point of controversy about
which the best scholars differ widely. We,
therefore, urge you to study your Bible care-
fully and prayerfully, form your own opin-
ions, and in the fear of God be baptized by
the mode which satisfies your conscience.
Really, sir, you must admit they have
grounds upon which to stand."

11 It may be good ground for them, but
not for me."

FACING THE TRUTH. I49

44 But, Doctor, we cannot be the judge of
another's conscience — before God he will
stand or fall. So, when one asks for baptism
by pouring or sprinkling, and pleads as his
right to do so the passage from Peter, how
can you deny him, his life being that of a
christian ?"

" We deny him because we do not believe
his views are correct — he is wrong."

"Then to come into your church you
would require him to be baptized on your
faith and not on his."

" We do not ask that, but we do not bap-
tize him."

" Then you would turn away from God's
church one of God's children — send him to
live and associate with the world, out from
the influences of the church ; and all this,
not because he is not known to be a godly
man, nor vet because he does not believe in
baptism, for he does, but simply because he
does not understand the mode of baptism as
you do. On the other hand, here is a man
who upon profession of faith is immersed,
joins your church, and you fellowship him,
though you know, as between the two, the
christian character of the rejected man is far

150 IOLA; OK,

more consistent than that of the one you
received. You see you rejected the first,
not because he was not a christian, but be-
cause he could not follow you as touching the
mode of baptism, while you accepted the
other, not because his life was exemplary as
a christian, but because he followed you in
the mode of baptism. Now, Doctor, tell me
candidly, what' do you think Jesus would
say to such conduct as that on the part of
his people?"

" I am sure I have no means of knowing."

"I think I have, Doctor; for in Mark 9:
38, we find an incident which illustrates how
Jesus felt about it."

" To what do you allude?"

" Why, to this, John went to Jesus and
said : ' Master, we saw one casting out devils
in thy name, and he followeth not us ; and

we forbade him, because he followeth not

» >>
us.

"Then Jesus said: 'Forbid him not: for
there is no man which shall do a miracle in
my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.'

"That was- a different case."

" Certainly it was, Doctor, but the princi-
ple is just the same; and I think if you

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 5 I

should go and tell Jesus that ycu had refused
to allow a certain child of God to come into
his church simply because he did not follow
your views of the mode of baptism, he would
in like manner say : 4 Let him come into the
fold, and forbid him not.'

"That is your view of it, Iola — that is all."
"Yes, sir, and it seems to have -been the
Saviour's view, too."

" I wish to give you a case which I per-
sonally know to be true," continued Iola.
" I know a prominent Baptist who had in
his employ a devoted member of a pedobap-
tist church. The employer spoke in my
presence of the high christian character of
the man. He died a short while ago. His
employer was much grieved on account of
his death, and said, with feeling: ' He was
a christian man, and died in the triumphs of
a living faith, ready to meet his God in
peace." Now. while all this was true, the
Baptist employer would not meet this chris-
tian at the Lord's table as a brother in
Christ. The man was buried, and a Baptist
man was put into his place. I heard the
employer say that his new foreman was pre-
sumptuous in a high degree, puffed up, and

152 IOLA ; OR,

unreliable ; and yet he was a member of the
Baptist church in good and regular standing.
With these facts known to him, the Baptist
employer did not hesitate to meet this man
at the Lord's table as a brother. I know
this is not a supposed case — it came under
my own observation, and I here vouch for
the truth of the same. The pedobaptist,
though rich in christian experience, could
not be recognized as a christian at the Lord's
table, but this unchristian-like character, be-
cause he had been immersed, was made wel-
come in the church. This makes me sav :
You rejected the first, not because he was
not a christian, but because he did not fol-
low you ; and you accepted the second, not
because of his godly lite, but because he fol-
lowed you in the mode of baptism. Is it
not so ?"

" He ought to be baptized by immersion
nevertheless, before coming into the church
of Christ, as a member."

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 53

Chapter XIX.

f WISH you to answer this question :
Was the principle, governing the case I
gave, right ?"

11 I am not the judge, Iola ; but after all,
I do not see how you can admit people to
the Lord's table before they are baptized."

" Well, sir, I had said nothing about that ;
but if you cannot answer the case just given,
I will talk on baptism and the communion."

" I will wait till another time to answer
you."

" That is the easiest way out of the di-
lemma, Doctor; for the Bible will certainly
give you no answer. In this respect you
represent the Baptists — you do not like to
have these questions agitated, and I dare
say it is best {ox your cause to leave them in
silence."

""Do what! WTho is afraid to meet any
question pertaining to Baptists' views? Not
I, Not my people, if you please,"

" Very well, I am ready to talk with you,

154 iola; or,

Doctor, the best I can, on the communion
question."

" I understand you are going to unite with
the CHRISTIANS because they practice open
communion."

" That is true, sir."

" But, my dear young friend, how can you
so violate the Bible order of the ordinances ?"

" I am not aware of doing so, Doctor."

" Aware or not, you do it."

"How? What is the gospel order?"

" It is repentance, faith, baptism and then
communion."

" Let us," said the Doctor," read Acts 2 :
42: * And they continued steadfastly in the
apostle's doctrine and fellowship, and in
breaking of bread and prayers.' That is
Bible order."

Why, my dear sir, there is no close com-
munion there. The sacred writer says not a
word of the relation of the two ordinances,
but that they continued in the apostle's doc-
trine. The apostles, not one of them, ever
said we must be baptized before we can go
to the Lord's table, but one did say, let a
man examine himself and so eat of that
bread and drink of that cup. Besides if you

FACING THE TRUTH. i 5 $

make that the order of a religious life, you
will have to be steadfast in doctrine and fel-
lowship, in breaking of bread, all before you
could pray. Now it seems to me prayer be-
longs in the very beginning of a christian
life— even people in seeking Christ before they
have accepted Him, pray. See Luke 18: 13.

"But Jesus taught that baptism must
precede communion."

"Where is that Doctor?"

" I do not remember just now, but look it
up — you can find it."

"Doctor, you must do your own looking;
when you point out the book, chapter and
verse to me, then I will look. Till then,
however, I shall claim there is no authority
for that view in the Bible."

"Why do you so much object to close
communion, Iola?"

" Plainly because it is unscriptural and
unchristian-like, besides it makes your church
appear as unchristianizing a large portion of
God's people."

" But Christ did not say do this in remem-
berance of each other, but this do in re-
memberance of me." Then would you
change this solemn memorial of the suffer-

156 IOLA; OR,

ings and death of Christ into a mere symbol
of fellowship ? No my young friend, your
zeal may lead you too far. Whatever else
we may do or fail to do, we must do this
in remembrance of Christ."

" I agree to all that, Doctor; so far I think
you are right. Now, please tell me why it
is when Baptists do this in remembrance of
Christ that they are unwilling to allow other
christians to join them in celebrating the
Supper in remembrance of Christ also ?
Please answer me."

u But you do it in remembrance of each
other."

"Give me one case where that is true?"
u Oh, there are many of them !"
Well, if so many, just give me the name
of one?

" I do not just now recall one."
" I think you do not, Doctor, for I never
heard of a church celebrating the Lord's
Supper in remembrance of each other, ex-
cept through you. The truth is other
churches no more do it than the Baptists do.
That is the way you seek to mislead. You
claim that others pervert it in use and pur-
pose and therefore you can not invite them,

Facing the truth. t§7

but that is a sad mistake, and I still wish to
know why you refuse to permit other chris-
tians to join you when you partake of the
Lord's Supper in remembrance of Christ?
Baptists and Methodists, for instance, both
do it in remembrance of Christ, they are
both his children. Then why not com-
memorate his sufferings and death like
brethren together?

" Well, I assert that the communion is a
memorial of Christ, a communion with him,
and not a mark of fellowship with chris-
tians.

" I again admit that. Please excuse me and
permit a personal question. Do you feel
that by the grace of God you are a chris-
tian r

"I do."

"Exactly; so do I. Now please tell me
why we may not together go to the Lord's
Supper and partake of the emblems, since
we both do it as his children in remembrance
of Him?"

"Well, we do not invite all christians to
commune with us, because that is a perver-
sion of the ordinance and a violation of the
command, " This do in remembrance of me."

158 iola; or,

" To whom was that command given?"

" To his disciples, of course."

"Certainly. Then if I am a disciple of
Jesus what right have you to keep me from
going to his table to commemorate his suf-
ferings and death?"

" We ask only such as have been convert-
ed and baptized to come to the supper."

" Such only as have been converted ! Ah !
I see now, you propose not only to believe
for yourself, but for others, too. That was
not Paul's idea. He said : ' Let a man ex-
amine himself.' Paul also said : 'But why
dost thou judge thy brother? Or why dost
thou set at naught thy brother? for we shall
all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.'
I fully believe that all whose christian char-
acter is unquestioned ought to be permitted
to do this in remembrance of Christ. Show
me one word of scripture against this,
please."

" But it is no test of christian character."

" I know that, Doctor, but it is a brother-
ly and Christ-like recognition of christian
character."

"Admit that to be true and yet we must

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 59

preserve the scriptural order of the ordi-
nances."

" Scriptural order of the ordinances, what
do you mean by that?"

"We mean baptism first and the Lord's
Supper second. That is the way they were
given to us."

" I have heard that plea all my life, as a
Baptist, but since I have studied the subject
for myself, I know you are greatly mistaken.
That is not the scriptural order at all."

"What is, then?"

" Why the Lord's Supper was instituted
before christian baptism. If you mean to
follow the Bible order, you should all par-
take of the Supper before baptism."

11 Nonsense ! Iola, where did you get such
an idea?"

" From excellent authority, the Bible."

"Impossible! The Bible teaches nothing
of the sort."

11 Yes it does, and you will not deny it, I
think, after seeing it for yourself."

11 Now, Doctor, will you tell me when chris-
tian baptism —not John's baptism — was in-
stituted ?"

l6o IOLA ; OR,

" It was instituted when John baptized
Christ."

" No, sir, you are certainly mistaken — that
was only John's baptism. Paul did not rec-
ognize it as christian baptism ; on the con-
trary, in Acts 19: 3 — 6, he disowns it, and
the disciples turned away from it, and were
baptized with christian baptism."

11 1 believe that is a fact ; but it does not
show what you have claimed, that the Lord's
Supper was instituted before christian bap-
tism.

" When was christian baptism instituted,
Doctor ?"

" According to Paul, it must have been
when the Holy Ghost was given, as it seems
that was lacking in the first baptism of the
disciples, in Acts 19: 3-6."

"When was the Holy Ghost given, Doc-
tor?"

" It was given on the day of Pentecost, of
course,"

"Yes, I agree to that. Now, please tell
me when was the Lord's Supper instituted ?"

" Why, on the night of the betrayal of the
Saviour."

" Exactly so. Christian baptism was in-

FACIXG THE TRUTH. l6l

stituted on the day of Pentecost, and the
Lord's Supper was instituted on the night of
the betrayal of Jesus, or just fifty days be-
fore christian baptism. So, if the Baptists
would follow the Bible order of the ordi-
nances, they would simply reverse their
present practice and celebrate the Lord's
Supper first, and then baptism — that would
be the Bible order."

" As a Baptist I cannot endorse that."

"Then you cannot endorse the plain facts
of the Bible, sir, for you must admit that I
have established by the Bible what I have
claimed."

"Well, Baptists do not so understand it,
they believe baptism is first and must pre-
cede communion."

" But, I tell you Doctor, the Baptists did
not so believe years ago, and the English
Baptists do not to-da\ ."

"Where did you get that? I am sure you
are mistaken."

"I think not, sir. Art. 71, in the Baptist
Confession or Statement of Principles, as
adopted in England in the year 161 1, says:

'All repenting and believing christians
are brethren in the communion of the out-
6

1 62 IOLA; OR,

ward visible church, wherever they may live,
or by what name they may be named, be
they Roman Catholic, Lutherans, Zwing-
lians, Calvinists, Brownists, Anabaptists, or
any pious christians, who, in truth, and by
godly zeal, strive for repentance and faith,
although they are implicated in great igno-
rance and weakness.'

11 Again, in Art. 80, they say:

I That none ought to be kept from the
outward communion of the church, but those
who remain impenitent and deny the power
of godliness.'

II In another Confession of about the same
period, I find this plain declaration :

' The Lord's Supper is the outward mani-
festation of the spiritual communion between
Christ and the faithful, mutually to declare
his death till he come.'

" Now, Doctor, I find nothing here of
baptism preceding the supper. I will go
further yet. LTpon examination of the early
history of American Baptists, I find that
their Confession of the year 1677 forms a
basis for the Confessions of the Philadelphia,
Charleston and other early Baptist Associa-
tions. I am further informed that so good

FACING THE TRUTH.

163

Baptist authority as Prof. Whitsitt, of the
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary of
Louisville, Kentucky, admits that this Con-
fession in its thirtieth article provided for
this ' Loose Communion' at the Lord's Sup-
per. Prof. W. claims that the author of
this article was a friend and confidant of
Bunvan, by whom it was probably inspired.
Bunyan was an open communion Baptist,
so was the distinguished Robert Hall, and
so Spurgeon is now, with many others.
Further, Benedict's History shows, on page
497, that Hansard Knolleys founded the
first Baptist church in America in 1838 or '9,
and that was an open communion church in
practice."

Chapter XX.

'^yfOLA, I suppose the points you make
(JL| from facts in our history as Baptists, are
true, but times have changed."

"True, Doctor; but I am persuaded that
the Bible and its precious truths have not
changed an iota, and I do not see how you

164 IOLA ; OR,

can try to wring from its sacred truths this
selfishness at the Lord's table. I cannot
believe that the Bible anywhere authorizes
it. When Jesus instituted the supper, he
directed that all of his disciples present
should partake of it together. Afterward
Paul expressly stated that every christian
should examine himself. If upon this self-
examination he could sincerely and truly
partake of the supper, discerning the Lord's
body, then he was to do so, and no man
dared question his right. Now, if baptism
had been a pre-requisite to the supper, surely
Paul would have so stated it when he was
giving the conditions upon which christians
were to partake of it."

"Iola, lam surprised at the course you
are pursuing, fighting your own church and
giving your influence to one so full of error
as these Christians are."

" In what does their error consist ?"

" Oh, in many things!"

" Name one, please."

"Well, a leading feature in that church, if
I must call it a church, is this principle of
the right of private judgment and liberty of
conscience. As held by them, it is one of

FACING THE TRUTH. 165

the greatest curses of this day — it is doing
no little harm."

" Please show me wherein, Doctor."

11 In this way. By allowing this principle
to prevail, they license their members to
commit any immoral act, and then plead this
rule as a justification of the sin."

" Be kind enough to give your authority,
Doctor."

" Why, I have heard people say so again
and again."

" I tell you, it is not true ; they do
no such thing, nor do they allow any
such abuse of the right of private judgment
and liberty of conscience. If you will read
the statement and study the principle in-
volved in it, which immediately precedes
the one on the right of private judgment,
you will readily see how absurd the rumor
is, for when they require christian character
as a test of membership, they could not con-
sistently allow the principle of the right of
private judgment to be so abused as your
rumor would indicate. They do make that
principle a prominent feature in their State-
ment of Principles, but it applies wholly to
matters of opinion on certain doctrines, and

166 IOLA; OR,

in no sense to morals. So, I beg you, disa-
buse your mind and the minds of your peo-
ple,of any such thought. The Christians,
I am proud to know, are above any such
evils in their principles or church polity.''

" But how do you know that, Iola ?"

" In this way : My father presented this
matter to me just as you have done, and
I addressed a note of inquiry to my moth-
er's old pastor in Virginia, the Rev. T.
M. Rickson, a prominent minister among
them, asking for the facts. I did not in the
remotest way intimate to him a purpose or
desire to unite with his people. His letter
was clear and to the point. It satisfied my
mind that there was no truth in the absurd
charge which you say rumor brings against
them. Here is the letter, you can read it
for yourself."

After reading it he said,

11 Well, Iola, I have always thought it fair
and just to let every denomination define its
own views. The statement of Mr. Rickson
is higher authority than mere rumors. I
accept the correction,"

" I am glad to see you satisfied, Doctor,

FACING THE TRUTH. 167

that I am not casting my lot with a shoddy
church."

" I have had a long interview with you,
iola, at the request of your father, but I
have accomplished nothing. I am sorry to
give you up, but I am glad to see that you
have not taken so important a step without
careful stud}-. You are not moving blindly.
You have posted yourself well — that is
proper, a duty you owe the organization,
and yet I hope you may reconsider and re-
trace your steps — -come back to Broad Creek
church."

11 That hope is in vain', Doctor. My mind
is fully made up to go to the CHRISTIANS.
I cannot retrace my steps. The Bible would
condemn every such step I might make and
I should feel as if I heard the groans of my
agonized mother in her last days on earth,
while her sad and depressed countenance
would haunt my very being — and it was all
due to the exclusiveness of the Baptists of
whom I was then one, but no more am I one
of them. Indeed, when your church ex-
pelled me for no reason except my devotion
to open communion views, it forever set my
face in another direction. I wish your peo-

l6S IOLA; OR,

pie no harm. May God bless them in all
their work, which is according to his will.
May he, too, help me to live 'the life of an
humble servant and at last join my angel
mother on the brighter shore."

4< May God grant it, is my wish, Iola."

" Thank you, Doctor. I hope, too, to meet
many of the Baptists there, but I am quite
sure I shall not see them there as exclusive
Baptists. Such as get there will be simply
CHRISTIANS, men and women redeemed by
the blood of Christ."

"I fear you will become unbalanced on
the name Christian, Iola. Why may we not
be Baptists in Heaven?"

"You know Mr. Wesley dreamed of going
to Heaven's portals, where he asked :
' Are there any Methodists here?' ' None,'
was the prompt answer. Any Episcopa-
lians? No. Any Baptists? No. 'Then,'
asked the great preacher in his astonish-
ment, ' Whom have you there?' And the
answer came clear and quickly, 'CHRISTIANS.'
That is just what I hope to realize when I
get to Heaven — no Methodists, no Presby-
terians, no Episcopalians, no Baptists, as
such, but I hope and expect to find many of

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 69

these dear people in Heaven, and there they
will be simply CHRISTIANS. May God
grant it. I love them all."

To this Dr. Jenkins made no reply, but
excused himself and retired to have an in-
terview with Mr. Graham, in which he
expressed no hope of bringing the young
girl back to the Baptists. He said all his
efforts had accomplished nothing — that she
could not be changed.

Here Mr. Graham became enraged at his
daughter's course and said : " If she must go
to them, then she may stay with them and
they may support her — for I cannot while
she goes with that church."

Returning home that evening, Dr. Jenkins
found his family seated around the fireside,
and to them he gave a most interesting ac-
count of his interview with Iola Graham.
He represented her as led under the grief of
her mother's death to abandon close com-
munion, and for that reason she had been
expelled from the Baptists. At length
Johnnie, the twelve year old boy of the
Doctor, said :

" Papa, why did they expel her?"

170 IOLA ; OR,

" Because she believes in open commun-
ion.

"Well, papa, can't she believe in that and
be a christian ?"

" I suppose she might, my son, but not
according to the Baptists' idea."

11 But I understood you to say she is a
christian ?"

" Well, Johnnie, I suppose she is."

" Can't all christians belong to the Bap-
tists?"

" Not unless they believe in close com-
munion, my boy."

"Close communion, what is that, papa?"
"It is excluding from the Lord's table every
person who does not believe just as we do
about baptism. Really, my son, it is not so
much close communion, after all, as it is
close baptism ."

" But, papa, what do you mean by close
baptism?"

" I mean that only those who have been
immersed by an ordained Baptist preacher,
can come to the Lord's table."

" Papa, does the Bible teach that doc-
trine r

"Oh, yes!"

FACING THE TRUTH. 171

" Where, please show it to me ?"

"Well, some time, maybe."

" Then all who have been so baptized can
commune, can they ?"

"Yes."

"Then papa can't Miss Iola commune
with us, for she was close baptized?"

" No, no, my child."

" I thought you said close baptized per-
sons could."

"Yes, I did, but — but — a-h-e-m — she
can t.

"Then, papa, can none go to Heaven but
those believing in close baptism and close
communion ?"

" Oh, yes ! All who believe in sincerity
and in truth in the Lord Jesus Christ, as
their Saviour, will go to Heaven when they
le.

" Well, papa, if Miss Iola is good enough
and strong enough in faith to go to Heaven
when she dies, isn't she good enough to par-
take of the Lord's Supper in a Baptist
church ?"

"Are you not sleepy, Johnnie?"

" No sir."

" It is time to retire — good night, my

172 IOLA; OR,

boy," and the dear little fellow was hurried
off without an explanation, leaving him to
solve the problem in his dreams, but he
could not, and to this day he does not under
stand this puzzling question.

The next -day being the Sabbath, Iola de-
termined to seek membership in the Chris-
tian church at Percy's Chapel, and approach-
ing her father, she said :

"Will you please send me to Percy's
Chapel to-morrow?"

" Send you where, Iola?"

" To Percy's Chapel."

"What do you wish to go there for?"

" Father, since I was expelled from your
church, I have been looking for a church
with which I may unite. I have decided on
the CHRISTIAN church, after a careful and
prayerful examination of the whole matter.
Percy's Chapel is the nearest Christian
church to me, and, though a stranger there,
I have decided to unite with that church to-
morrow, if you will be kind enough to send
me."

" I am surprised — more, I am mortified,
to think that you will leave both your church
and your father to go to such a people."

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 73

" Father," kindly replied the young girl,
11 I did not leave your church — I was un-
righteously expelled from its membership
for my open communion views. I was made
to go — now I wish to go — I have a con-
science, and I must follow its dictates."

" If nothing else will do, you can go, and
you may stay."

At these unexpected harsh words, Iola
burst into tears, but tears availed nothing.
The next morning the driver announced the
carriage ready, and so was Iola. She was
neatly dressed, as becomes a cultivated chris-
tian lady. Going to her father, who was in
his accustomed seat, she placed her arms
gently about his neck and tenderly kissed
him, saying, as she did so :

11 My dear father, I beg you be patient
with me, and do not cease to love me. You
know mother is gone, and you are my next
strong friend. If my course is hard for you
to bear, I beg you remember the trials
through which I have come. Remember my
dying mother, what suffering, and heart-
anguish, I endured because of the terrible
misfortune you and I brought upon her, in
her last sickness. I know we did not mean

174 IOLA; OR,

to do so, and yet we did it. Think of my
course as kindly as you can. I expect to be
home this afternoon, late," and she kissed
him good-bye.

Mr. Graham sat through this tender atten-
tion from his daughter without emotion, and
when she entered the carriage and drove
away, he roughly said to a by-stander, " I
hope she will get enough of her new friends,
and that very soon." But Iola, poor child,
knew nothing of the unkind remark, and
went away feeling that little of happiness
was at her home, but she grew brave to bear
this, under the thought that she would secure
peace of mind and an easy conscience in the
step she was taking, though over a rough
and thorny road she must walk alone to ob-
tain so rich a possession. She had endured
much with none to encourage her, save the
gentle whisperings of her angel mother, who
had suffered untold agonies of heart and
mind in the same cause.

Between her home and the church she had
ample time for reflection. She loved her
father devotedly, and never once attributed
his severity toward her and her mother to
any lack of love, but rather to the influence

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 75

of heartless church rules, and, she might have
added in charity, Christless rules, for Jesus
never made such regulations as governed her
father's conduct toward her mother and her-
self.

Once her home was a happy one. Now
under the influence of Baptist exclusiveness,
it is torn in fragments. It has sent her
mother to an early grave, it has expelled
Iola from her own church, and now it seeks
to break the love of a father from his only
daughter. Her mind was crowded with
thoughts of her mother in Heaven, of her
father with the Baptists, and of herself seek-
ing a church-home among strangers, and, as
if lost to all else, she began to sing in a low
sweet voice that dear old hymn :

"Shall we meet beyond the river
Where the surges ne'er shall roll ?

Wherein all the bright forever,

Sorrow ne'er shall press the soul ?"

As the sound of the last words died away

she seemed to hear, as if an echo to her own

voice, (perhaps the spirit of her mother was
hovering near her,) a sweet strain,

" Yes, we'll meet beyond the river

When life's burden we lay down ;
We shall change our cross of anguish

For a bright, unfading crown."

176 IOLA; OR,

Chapter XXI.

(EACHING the church she sent a note
to the pastor, the Rev. P. T. Knapper,
saying she wished to unite with the church.
It was quarterly meeting and communion
day. Before the sermon he announced
that by request he would open the doors of
the church for the reception of members. He
gave out hymn 468,

"O happy day that fixed my choice."

not knowing the circumstances that called
forth this part of the services. While the
congregation was singing a young lady,
walked slowly up the aisle and took a stand
near the altar. The pastor made the follow-
ing public examination :

" My young sister, have you sincerely and
heartily repented of all your sins?"

" I believe I have."

" Do you believe in the Lord Jesus Christ
as the Saviour of the world ?"

" I do."

" Is it your purpose through grace to live a
godly life?"

" It is."

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 77

Then said the pastor: " Brethren and sis-
ters, you have heard the examination of Iola
Graham, who seeks admission as a member
into this church. Is there any objection to
receiving her ?"

All was silence, and he gave her the right
hand of fellowship and a hearty welcome,
and, handing her the Bible, said :

11 In behalf of the church, my young sister,
I welcome you to our fold. Study the Bible
carefully and prayerfully. Let it be the rule
and guide to your faith and practice, and
may God richly bless your association with
us. May you be happy and useful in the
church."

Then the preacher gave out as his text
these words :

" That they all may be one ; as thou,
Father, art in me, and I in Thee, that they
also may be one in us ; that the world may
believe that thou has sent me." — John 17 : 21.

He urged upon his hearers the fact that
all christians are one in spirit, just as Jesus
and the Father are one. He showed how a
misinterpretation of this truth had in every
age racked the church with strife and divis-
ion, none of which had been helpful in

178 iola; or,

making the world better. He gave special
emphasis to the reason win* God's people
should be one in spirit, living in peace and
harmony as brethren. Said he, " Jesus made
it so plain that men blinded by sectarian
prejudice even, can understand its import-
ance, as presented in the last clause of the
text, viz : ' That the world may believe that
thou has sent me.' He fully elaborated the
thought that sectarians, in fighting one an-
othersobitterly overmatters of mereopinion,
kept many from accepting the Saviour, thus
retarding in a shameful manner the spread
of the gospel. By way of contrast he showed
how the united hearts and minds and labors
of God's people had been singularly blessed
in leading men to a saving knowledge of the
truth as it is in Jesus.

This was a feast to Iola. She knew only
too well how fighting between professing
christians had led to results so serious, in
carrying misery and suffering, and, as she be-
lieved, death into her home, robbing her of
a fond mother.

It was noticed by some in the congrega-
tion that the stranger who had joined them
was deeply interested, and occasionally a tear

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 79

trickled down her fair cheeks. It betokened
the emotions which were known only to
herself. She understood, as few others could,
the meaning of the pastor's words, portray-
ing the evils of sectarianism. Indeed, it is
a shame, a burning shame, that men profess-
ing to love God, should ever say such hard
things one of another, simply because they
differ in opinions.

Then came the communion. The pastor,
after suitable remarks on the character and
purpose of the supper, said : " We invite all
christians of whatever name to join us in
commemorating the sufferings and death of
the Saviour in this supper. I would have
each one personally examine himself or her-
self, as Paul says : ' Let a man examine him-
self, and so let him eat of that bread and
drink of that cup." The service proceeded.
In passing the emblems, one of the deacons
came to an aged member of the Baptist
church, Bro. Thomas Black. He was known
in the community as a warm-hearted chris-
tian, of unquestioned piety. His head was
white with the late frosts of the autumn of
life. He was feeble and lame and blind, a
pilgrim standing on the verge of eternity.

180 IOLA; OR,

The deacon felt he could not, and would
not, pass him without an opportunity, per-
haps the last on earth, to join in the celebra-
tion of the Lord's Supper. One of the dea-
cons asked him if he wished to partake. The
old veteran of the cross said : " I do wish to
unite with you in this blessed communion
service, but the rules of my church will not
allow me." The white haired father hid his
face, as if in grief over the usage of his own
church. The services closed.

While the congregation was dispersing the
pastor was offering a kind word to his new
member. Accompanying her from the house
to the stile, to their dismay they found the
carriage had gone. Both were shocked. At
that moment she saw for the first time the
meaning of her father's words when he told
her to "go and stay." Till now she had re-
garded that remark as simply expressing his
disapproval of her course, but he meant
just what he said, and as she realized this
she was heard to exclaim, as if alone :

" Oh, this persecution ! May it make my
life as a lamp that burneth to all who sit in
the darkness of intolerance."

Left among strangers, the pastor seeing

FACING THE TRUTH. l8l

her trouble, vacated his own seat and asked
her to ride with his wife to Deacon Day's, to
dine. Knowing her helplessness, she ac-
cepted the kindness. No little curiosity was
aroused. The pastor felt most anxious to
know the history of his new member. She
was beautiful, modest, intelligent and well
dressed, but why she should be left at church
in this manner was a mystery.

After dinner Iola passed a note to the
pastor, requesting an interview with him and
Deacon Day. Arrangements were immedi-
ately made, and in a short time she was in-
vited to a private room, where she met both
the pastor and the deacon.

" I have sought this interview with you,"
she said, " because I know the circumstances
attending my coming into your church, and
being left there as I was, must seem strange
to you. I am anxious to give you the facts."

She briefly told the story of her history.

" My open communion sentiments," she
continued, " and a liberal evangelical faith,
have thus rendered me a homeless girl, and
it may seem to you that my father's action
throws me upon your generosity for sup-
port" ; and here she burst into tears, for her

1 82 IOLA; OR,

father's treatment was more than she could
bear.

At length, she said :

" I do not wish you to feel that I have
come to thrust myself upon your charity. I
am willing to accept the burdens thus thrown
upon me, for I am led by faith, I hope ; and,
as I believe, I stand on principle."

11 The sad story of your life has reached
our sympathy. We are ready to do any-
thing we can to be of service to you."

" Many thanks for your brotherly sympa-
thy and kindness. I am very anxious to
work my own way, and all I could ask, or
accept, is assistance to get employment."

" What do you wish?" asked the pastor
and deacon, simultaneously.

" Oh," she said, " I am willing to do any
honorable work for which my strength is
sufficient. I prefer teaching, but I cannot,
I must not be a burden to you."

" I have a friend in C , now in need of

a teacher. I will endeavor to secure the
position for you," said the Deacon.

" Thank you, sir, I wish you may succeed.
I have no time to lose. Meantime, Mr. Day,

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 83

will you kindly send to my father's to-morrow
for my trunk?

" Certainly I will — make yourself content.
My house is yours as long as you need it."

11 That is so kind, sir, when I am only a
stranger."

A few days passed, and Iola, though much
of life was darkened to her, made herself a
very pleasant companion to Deacon Day's
daughters, so that new ties of friendship
were formed, and they began to feel that
she was one of them.

When her trunk came, with it came the
following note :

My Dear Child :

In answer to your request I send your
trunk. I am a miserable man. My wife is
dead, my only child is a wanderer, and I am at
home, feeble and alone. You will regret
your course, and that bitterly, before you
are many years older. Perhaps the greatest
trial of my life was to see the carriage come
home last Sunday without you. It was
hard, indeed. But I can not support and
protect you while you give your influence
and yourself to the building up of the Chris-

184 IOLA; OR,

tians, as you call them.. Sever your connec-
tion with them and come back to your old
faith, and all that I have shall be yours.
My home shall be all you can ask, and your
happiness shall be my pleasure. If you can
not do this, then good-by.

From your father,

George Graham.

11 I can't ! Oh, I can't !" she exclaimed and
she wept as if her heart would break, and
falling upon her knees in prayer she sought
help from above. Especially did she plead
for her father — that his eyes might be opened,
his heart made tender and his love for her
restored, meanwhile she was firm to her con-
victions and determined to take hardships
with an easy conscience, rather than personal
ease with a troubled conscience.

She had been in the family two weeks
when the Deacon announced to her the fact

that he had secured the school in C for

her. This gave her very much pleasure, be-
cause she did not wish to burden the kind-
ness of her new friends.

" We do not like to have you leave us, but

FACING THE TRUTH.

I85

GEORGE GRAHAM.

1 86 IOLA; OR,

the gentleman wishes the school to open the
first Monday in November, about one week
from now. In order to do so, it may be
necessary to go by next Thursday's steamer ;

the " Mistress of the Sea" sails from W

to C that day. You can then reach

your new home Friday or Saturday.

"Very well, sir. That will suit me. I
will be ready Thursday."

Though Iola Graham had been in the
house only two weeks, there was as much
ado over her leaving as if one of the family
had been preparing for a year's absence.
She had been so agreeable, so kind and
thoughtful, that every member of the family
seemed anxious to have her company.
Thursday the parting was affectionate. It
was like father and mother and brothers and
sisters, parting with the eldest daughter and
sister of the household.

At 6 o'clock p. m., Thursday, she sailed on
the " Mistress of the Sea," expecting to

reach C Friday afternoon. The weather

was good and the trip gave promise to be
pleasant. At mid-night there was a fall of
the mercury. A brisk wind sprang up and
the sea became ro'ugh, but no danger was

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 87

apprehended, meanwhile the noble steamer
was plowing the face of the great deep,
dashing into a beautiful spray the heaving
billows, as if it were only child's play. Occa-
sionally the billows seemed to come with
renewed power against the vessel and a slight
tossing of the great steamship was per-
ceptible. The time made was unusually
quick. What cared the passengers for the
rough wind? They had long since retired
and were sweetly sleeping. Why should
fear of danger trouble them? — their passage
was on the "Mistress of the Sea," a steam-
ship whose pride was that she had never
met a storm through which she could not
ride with safety. Her speed was unusually
rapid. Nothing was impeding her progress.
The rough rolling sea seemed an unwilling
aid in its onward march. The wind beat
heavily against her; the splash of the wheels
was as regular as clock work, and the rattle
of the heaving engine spoke of the safety of
the passengers. It is 3 o'clock and suddenly
a sharp call and a heavy stroke at the doors
of the sleeping passengers awoke them. The
warning voice carried with it terror — the cry
was, " fire /" The people were immediately

1 88 IOLA ; OR,

panic stricken. They ran here, there, every-
where,— all in confusion. Already volumes
of smoke were issuing from the engine room ;
it was a terrible fact, the ship was on fire
and with little prospect of extinguishing it.
Meantime every one was adjusting the life-
preserver. In the excitement Iola had been
forgotten. It was supposed, of course, she
was up and out of her room. The purser
made another round and found all doors
open, and the people out, except the one to
Iola's room, — he quickly broke it open ex-
pecting to find the young girl either still
asleep or dead from fright. As the door
gave way to his powerful stroke, lo ! what a
surprise ! Was she dead ? No. Was she
asleep? No. She was awake, alive, dressed,
already rigged in her life-preserver and upon
her knees in solemn prayer, as calm as at
other times. Her face was uplifted to God
— she was committing herself to His care
and protection.

Horrors, alas, the fearful fire is raging!
Now it is said there is no hope of reaching
land before the ship will be consumed. Men,
women and children, are wild with the
thought of facing so dreadful a fate, Some

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 89

are screaming, some wringing their hands in
despair, some have fallen to the floor in a
swoon. Iola preserved a calm mind. When
asked if she were not frightened, she replied :
" I do not feel comfortable, but I have com-
mitted my fate to my God. I am happy to
rest on my confidence in him."

Just then there was a fearful explosion on
the lower deck and vast volumes of flames
seemed to envelop the body of the steamer.
The small boats were lowered to the water
and they were immediately filled with terri-
fied passengers, till no more could find room.
Among those left to the mercy of the waves
was Iola Graham. She held her position
on the burning steamship till the fearful
flames forced her to cnoose death in the
deep rather than be burned. She maintained
her courage. Before the leap into the water
she looked heavenward and in agonizing
prayer, cried: " O, God, thou art the same
in the water as on the land. I commit my-
self to thy keeping for Jesus' sake," and Iola
was struggling with the restless waves of the
deep. She had suffered at the hands of
father and was strong, but now struggling in

I90 IOLA ; OR,

the perils of waters, will she be strong in her
faith in God?"

Soon the steamer was burned to the waters
edge and keeled partly over, and continued
to burn.

The tide drifted the passengers apart, a

number of whom had followed Iola rather

than suffer death from the flames. Oh, the

perils of the deep ! The beautiful Iola was

alone. She struggled long and hard to keep

on the surface of the waters. That was a

fearful Friday, a day long to be remembered

by those who escaped death. Time and

again Iola felt that she was going- —

sinking, that she would soon be with her

mother and her God. All through these

hours of peril the life-preserver had kept her

up. The day is far spent and Iola knows

not whither she has drifted. She is nearly

exhausted, she feels that she can not hold

on longer. In the same calm self-possession

she felt that even death would be a relief,

from such exposure and peril. Then she

seemed thrilled by the presence of the Holy

Spirit and under this inspiration she rallied

her strength and began to sing :

"Jesus, lover of my soul,
Let me to thy bosom fly.
\\hile the raging billows roll
While the tempest still is high."

FACING THE TRUTH.

I9I

" The Steamer was burned to the water s edge and keeled
partly over and continued to burn,"

192 IOLA; OR,

From the first to the last word her voice in-
creased in beauty and volume — it was
enough. God had heard her prayer, he had
given her strength to sing so as to be heard
on shore, by one who went in a small boat
in search of that sweet, rich voice.

Iola was nearly delirious from exhaus-
tion. She felt that she was almost over the
river, where she would soon be at rest. But
she heard the splash of the oar in the water.
In her semi-conscious state she imagined she
could hear the angel boatman from over the
river coming for her. Soon she found her-
self pulled at, and looking she saw a man in
a boat, and that was the last she knew of
his helo. After much effort he succeeded
in pulling her into the boat, and made for
the shore with all possible speed. He finally
got her ashore and to his father's house yet
alive, but still unconscious. All possible
effort was put forth by the family to restore
her. By ten o'clock that night they saw in-
dications of returning consciousness.

Different members of the family watched
by her bedside through the night- with cease-
less vigilance. By the dawning of the morn-
ing- she was stronger and conscious. Looking

FACING THE TRUTH. 193

around at the strangers, she said : " I wish
you would tell me where I am, and how I
came here. I know I have been rescued
from a burning steamer, but I know noth-
ing of the details. Who saved me? I
remember some one coming to me on a
boat."

" It was my son Edward who saved you,"
answered an old lady.

" Who is Edward ?"

" Edward D. Paul, my son. He was hunt-
ing down near the sea, and hearing a voice
on the water singing,

' Jesus, lover of my sou],'

he procured a boat and went in search of
you. He thinks you were almost dead
when he found you."

" Indeed, I was. I had been on the water
since about four o'clock in the morning. My
last recollection is that I seemed to be going
over the dark river. I saw at various times
through the day my mother hovering above
me as an angel. If God gives his angels charge
to keep us when in peril, may it not be that
my mother kept me from sinking till the time-
ly deliverance at the hands of your son ?"

" That may be. I believe that angels hover

7

194 iola; or,

around God's people in their times of need
and distress."

11 Please tell me where I am — in what State
and county?"

" Oh ! you are in county, North

Carolina, near the Atlantic coast."

11 How far am I from C ?"

" Why, some fifty miles. What of it?"

" I had started there to teach. I sailed

from W on Thursday. About three

o'clock Friday morning our steamer was
burned, and by the goodness of God I am
here, instead of being in the sea. My name
is Iola Graham. I deeply regret that I am
thus forced upon the kindness of strangers.
You see I am helpless. If my life is spared,
I will seek to compensate you, if you will be
kind enough to give me shelter in your home
till I am able to travel,"

"Oh, certainly! We count it an honor
that God has chosen us to be his servants in
taking care of you in this hour of exposure
and misfortune. In entertaining strangers
we sometimes entertain angels unawares.
Be assured you are welcome, and what we
may do for you will be counted a privilege."

" ' Every thorn has a rose,' she replied.

FACING THE TRUTH. I95

" If one must be exposed to the perils of
the sea, it is indeed a blessing to be found
by such noble-hearted christian people. You
make me feel so much at home."

" But you are too weak to talk — you must
be quiet and try to sleep all you can, till you
are stronger, or your exhaustion may develop
into sickness," said Mrs. Paul.

She promptly obeyed. Everything possi-
ble was done for her comfort. Mr. and Mrs.
Paul, as well as their daughters and son, felt
that they had a treasure committed to their
kindness, and they resolved to do their duty
and leave the results with Him who rewards
even a cup of cold water given in the name
of a disciple. They did not know her, had
never heard of her family before, unless she
was of the Governor Graham family.

Through Saturday she seemed to rally
partially from the effects of her exposure.
However, Sunday fever was developed, and
by Monday she was unconscious. The
family physician, Dr. Winborne, was in con-
stant attendance, using all his skill to check
the fever, but in vain. For three long weeks
it was a struggle between life and disease,
most of the time the beautiful Iola lay all

I96 IOLA ; OR,

unconscious. Frequently she shuddered,
and seemed as if shrinking from the pres-
ence of some person. Then her face would
glow with a peaceful smile, and she would
reach out her pale, thin hands, as if to grasp
another, and call : " Mother, mother ; my
dear mother !"

At the beginning of the fourth week she
was improving slowly, and hope of her re-
covery was entertained. Never were people
kinder to a stranger than had been the Paul
family to Iola Graham, through these weeks
of suffering, though all they knew of her
was from the few words she had spoken when
she first recovered consciousness after her
rescue from the sea. She had been unable
to tell her own story, but her lovely face,
modest mien and gentle words, even when
delirious, had satisfied them of her high
christian character. Thus they waited and
watched by her bedside for weeks. By
the middle of December she was able to sit
up for half a day at a time. As returning
strength enabled and encouraged her to talk,
she asked if there was a Christian church in
that community.

FACING THE TRUTH. 1 97

" Yes," answered a friend, " and the Pauls
are members of it."

This gave her pleasure. She said she count-
ed herself fortunate, as that was her church.
She felt a real delight in the fact that she
was with friends who could sympathize with
her in her religious convictions and her de-
nominational trials. To her surprise she
learned that young Edward Paul, who had
rescued her from the sea, was a deacon in
this church. Though very young, he had
been deemed the proper person to fill the
office, because of his piety and intelligence ;
he was a model young man, and filled the
office with the dignity of one of maturer
years.

Her presence in the community had
awakened a deep interest in her history on
the part of leading citizens, but no one was
able to satisfy their curiosity. She shrank
from reciting the adventures of her own life,
and her newly made friends hesitated to in-
troduce the subject. Thus days passed.

On Christmas Eve, Edward and his
mother were in the library. Their conver-
sation turned upon his work in rescuing the
young lady from a watery grave. They

198 iola; Ok,

both felt a laudable pride in the fact that he
had saved her. Said he :

11 Mother, is there any reason why one
who saves a lost treasure may not make that
treasure his own?"

"What do you mean, son?"
"I guess you understand me, mother."
" If I do, I see no wrong in it."
" Thank you. I have thought there could
be none, and if not, if I have recovered a
lost treasure, why may it not become my
own:

Tea was announced and the conversation
ended.

It was a pleasant evening, indeed. All the
family was at home and Miss Graham was
now well enough to join in the festivities of
this merry season.

Christmas morning was ushered in with
real joy and merriment. By ten o'clock
Iola asked to be excused, as she was not yet
strong enough to endure the strain of con-
tinued merry-making, and she retired to the
library to rest.

Edward came in, and entering the library
began conversation with her. Soon allu-
sion was made to her voyage on the ill-fated

FACING THE TRUTH. I99

" Mistress of the Sea," and with a sigh she
remarked :

" The most unexpected things turn us —
the whole of life — into the most unexpected
ways. It was so in that instance'"

" Yes, that is true;" as the poet has said,

" God moves in a mysterious way,
His wonders to perform."

" I hope you will excuse the curiosity, and
permit me to ask how you came to be on
the " Mistress of the Sea?"

" Oh, certainly, but the story is lengthy
and may tax your patience."

" Oh, no ! Besides, since I was permitted
to rescue you I feel an interest in the
events which led you to take passage on
that steamer."

She then proceeded with the sad story, be-
ginning at Broad Creek church, graphically
portraying the exciting and pathetic events
of her life to the present time, and then she
added :

t; Now you know it all — why I am here an
orphan girl, fighting my battles alone. It
was all for conscience's sake, because I could
not practice close communion."

" Do not consider yourself alone, or an

200 IOLA ; OR,

orphan. Your martyr-like sufferings and
your heroic struggles against bigotry will
give you friends anywhere. More than ever,
I feel that your sad coming has brought a
blessing to us all."

" I wish it, but I can not hope for so much
to follow my misfortunes and sorrows."

" Indeed I can, and do. The circum-
stances of our acquaintance form an event
never to be forgotten, and now that I know
your sad history and your conflicts with
sectarianism, I feel that we have entertained
an angel unawares."

■' Indeed, I am not entitled to so much
consideration. I can not feel otherwise than
deeply grateful for hospitality so unbounded,
and yet your estimate of my coming is too
high. It is the unfortunate in the warm
hearts of the fortunate. I trust I may not
tarry too long."

" The opposite is the question with me —
how can we keep you long enough ?"

< Thank you," she said, "but I must soon
leave, for my work, — when I am strong
enough. The responsibilities of my living
are upon my own shoulders."

•' Where is your work?"

FACING THE TRUTH. 201

" Oh, I have to look it up. I was to teach

in C . But of course, now I must look

elsewhere."

" I can guarantee you a permanent situa-
tion, if you will accept it, with light and
pleasant employment."

''Thank you. That is very kind."

"The only question is, will you accept
it, Miss Iola?"

" I suppose I will, but tell me what it is,
first."

" I fear you may decline, or think I am
joking. I am really in earnest. To tell the
truth, it has been the theme of my thoughts
since the day I found you in the sea."

Anticipating the possible turn of this
proposition just here, Iola did not answer,
and then a blush, which betrayed them both,
played upon manly and womanly cheeks
alike. After a few moments of painful
silence, he said :

"May I tell it all to you?" and without
waiting for an answer, he continued, " I love
you and the desire of my heart is to know
that you reciprocate my love."

" Mr. Paul, you know how truly I esteem

202 IOLA; OR,

you for your noble efforts in saving my
life—"

" Yes, but those efforts developed in my
bosom love for you, and nothing but your
love in return can make me happy. My
happiness is dependent on your will, and
now I lay myself helpless at your feet, can
you, will you be mine?"

She gazed steadily at the red coals in the
fire and her lips trembled. The whole mat-
ter is in the balances, and she must decide it,
and turning her beautiful eyes toward him
she said :

" You are too venturous. You are risking
too much — you do not know me, you do not
know that I am worthy to fill so honorable
a position."

" But I know this" he replied, " I am
anxious to risk it all. I do not fear you will
disappoint me as you intimate. Will you
be my wife?"

" I think you do not realize fully that
vvhen you make that proposition it is to one
who is now a wanderer from her own home —
a cast off for her faith — among strangers.
Perhaps you have not thought what it is to
make such a lady your life companion."

FACING THE TRUTH. 203

" All this has only made me the more de-
termined to ask you, to urge you to become
my wife."

Here she bowed her head and her lips
quivered under their burden of responsi-
bility— she was deciding for life the weal or
woe of two souls. Again looking into his
manly face, she answered :

11 I yield — I will be yours."

" I am blessed," he said, " my happiness is
complete," and they talked pleasantly of
the vows taken and of plans for the future.
At length Edward requested her to name
the day of their marriage. "I am aware,"
said he, "that this looks like hurrying you.
I do not mean to be hasty, but you are
necessarily from your friends and relatives,
and for this reason it might add to your
happiness, and an early marriage will cer-
tainly suit me."

" I will answer that as soon as I can de-
cide it in my own mind."

"Iola, oh, Iola!" It was the voice of Jen-
nie Paul calling, and Iola excused herself to

go-
In a few days the first Tuesday in March

204 I0LA ; OR,

was agreed on, and preparations were made
for the happy event.

On the day appointed she was married,
and her new home was an elegant mansion —
who was more worth)'?

Chapter XXII.

fj^c FEW days after her marriage she
(X$ks addressed to her father the following
very tender letter :

M , N. C, March 12, 1883.

My Dear Father :

I have not heard from you since last
October, except a few words from a friend
by letter. Through her I learned of your
sickness. I fear you are still displeased
with me, yet I must write— I must know
how you are. The day I left home, I
joined the CHRISTIANS at Percy's Chapel,
and through the kindness of friends I ob-
tained a school in C , for which place

I sailed on Thursday before the first Sunday

FACING THE TRUTH.

205

EDWARD F. PAUL.

206 IOLA ; OR,

in November. On the way our ship was
burned and I, after great peril and exposure,
was rescued by Mr. Edward F. Paul. This
was followed by weeks of sickness from
which, however, I have recovered.

Last Tuesday, one week ago, I was mar-
ried to the gentleman who rescued me from
a watery grave. I am happily married and
comfortably situated. I am disturbed by
your sickness, knowing you are alone. I
hope yet to know that you love me. My
course in church matters displeased you, but
not of choice, it was in answer to the honest
demands of my conscience — a plain obedi-
ence to the teachings of the scriptures.

I do not wish to write of things unpleas-
ant to you, but I must say the memory of
my days of bondage, religiously, even now
stirs my soul till I feel I must do something
to help free others who may be in like
bondage.

When I think how sectarianism hampers
the servants of God in their worship, when I
think how it led my dear mother to the
verge of insanity, and to an untimely grave,
when I think it expelled me from the church
of my early choice, and finally turned^ me

FACING THE TRUTH. 207

away from my dear father's home, where
once we were a happy family together, — O
Heaven, have mercy ! My heart aches as I
look upon the picture.

Surely you and your Baptist brethren will
soon see this error, and turn from it. It is a
" bone of contention," which carries so much
sorrow, strife and discord into christian
homes. Let us cease to fight one another
with unkind words and bitter slurs. Then
the church may present one solid, unbroken
phalanx of workers against this selfishness
and the power of Satan.

But I must close. I love you still, dear
father, and I hope you love your own Iola.
Be assured if I can do anything for your
comfort, you have only to let me know it,
and I will soon be in the dear old home of
my childhood's happy days, to do anything
I can for you. I would be glad to do some-
thing to make your last days on earth happy.
If you will accept my service, I will come at
once. I would be delighted to take you home
with me. Then I could daily minister to your
wants. Do let me hear from you.
Your loving daughter,

Iola G. Paul.

2o8 IOLA ; OR,

This letter was received at the old home-
stead by Mr. Graham. He read it through
blinding tears. It carried him back to the
happy days when wife and child and him-
self— a happy trio — dwelt together in peace.
That was before the ugly hand of sectarian-
ism had divided and distracted his own
model home. Then, he was well and happy.
Now, he is so miserable because of the past
and withal a sick man, a great sufferer from
inflamation, arising from the wound he re-
ceived years before on the field of battle. It
is fast wasting his strength and he is prepar-
ing to meet death, which he feels is rapidly
coming. He laid the letter upon the table
and left it unanswered, — perhaps he was too
feeble. A kind-hearted visitor, seeing the
letter and supposing that the father would
not, or could not, answer it, wrote briefly to
Iola as follows :

Wynan's Falls, N. C, March 28, 1883.

Mrs. Iola G. Paul,

M , N. C.

Pardon a privilege I am taking. Visiting
your father to-day, I find he is very feeble.
I felt that you ought to know it. I saw

FACING THE TRUTH. 209

your letter to him, and at once deter-
mined to let you know his real condition.
He is feeble — I think fast declining. The
wound he received before you were born has
inflamed seriously, and his strength is fail-
ing. He is much alone, and seems to be in
trouble.

Yours truly,

Mrs. Jno. T. Braxton.

Upon reading this, Iola determined to
visit her father at once ; and, if he would
consent, to bring him to her home, that she
might comfort him in his declining days.
She spoke to her husband of her wishes. He
approved her plans, and in a few days they
were at the bedside of Mr. Graham. As she
entered his room he was asleep. Awaking
at her approach, he recognized her, and,
reaching forth his arms, feebly exclaimed,
" My child !" and father and daughter were
again face to face. She saw a great change
had come over him. As they sat by his
bedside gazing upon the wasting form, Iola
said very tenderly:

" Father, we wish you to go with us home
to spend the remainder of your days with

210 IOLA; OR,

us, so that I can do for you and care for
you."

" Ah, child ! I fear I could not endure the
fatigue of the journey, I am so feeble."

" Yes, father, we can make you comfort-
able, if you will consent to go."

"Well, child, I do not know what is best,
but I will do as you wish."

" At home once more," she said, as she
walked to and fro about the pleasant haunts
of her early childhood, and she came to her
mother's room. There was her favorite seat,
and Iola, resting her elbow on the rim of
her mother's old arm chair, stood and wept.
A thousand thoughts pressed her mind, for
the memories of other days were many and
sad.

Everything was arranged and the trip was
made without serious consequences to Mr.
Graham. At Mr. Paul's he had every atten-
tion. Iola was almost constantly at his bed-
side ministering to his wants.

He suffered much, and lingered through
the lovely spring time, till the warm July
days came, when he grew much worse. The
end was not far away — every one could see

FACING THE TRUTH.

211

" Iola, resting her elbow on the rim ofhsr mother s old arm

chair, stood and wept," * * * * for the memories

oj other days were many and sad"

212 IOLA ; OR,

that, and he himself felt, no doubt, the warn-
ing touch of the fingers of Death.

On the morning of July 7th, he seemed
not only weaker, but nervously restless. He
acted like one who has a hidden burden upon
his heart ; meanwhile Iola was tenderly wait-
ing and watching by him, anticipating as
nearly as she could every want of her de-
parting father. At length he looked Iola
in the face, and pitifully said :

11 Dear child, forgive and forget your fath-
er's sad mistakes which brought upon your
young life so much pain and sorrow. For
weeks before you returned, I was troubled.
I went as with a thorn in my flesh. My ex-
clusive conduct toward you and your mother
has haunted me no little. It was the sad
mistake of my life, and has left the darkest
spot in my memory. Oh ! I deeply regret
it. Then I thought I was right ; I did wish
to be right, but I went too far; I was too
bitter towards others without cause. I
heartily regret it all.

" Now, with the judgment before me, and
death fast approaching, my life is passing in
rapid review. In all the mistakes of my life,
nothing appears half so fearful to me, nothing

FACING THE TRUTH. 21 3

so mars my prospect of peace as the thought
of the many heart-aches I so unnecessarily
gave your mother and yourself about your
religious views. As I have gradually come
nearer and yet nearer the dark river, I find
that all those feelings of bitterness have dis-
appeared, till now my soul is enlarged, I
love every child of God. I would shut none
out, I would keep not the least of his re-
deemed from the Lord's table, or any other
privilege, be he Baptist, Methodist, or any
other, only if he is Christ's.

11 I know we used to be hard upon our
brethren of other persuasions. I was for
one. May God forgive me, even in my dy-
ing hour for this great mistake. Tell my
brethren and sisters at Broad Creek church
that my dying request and prayer is, that
they no more oppose other denominations
as they did formerly. Tell them that they
cannot afford to divide and fight over mat-
ters of opinion, so insignificant when com-
pared with the theme of redemption, upon
which Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians,
and all who have had their robes washed in
the blood of the Lamb will unite in one grand

214 IOLA; OR,

universal song — even the song of the re-
deemed in Heaven."

He paused as if to rest, and Iola said :

" I forgive you, dear father, a thousand
times. Do not grieve over those dark days
now," and while she was talking she saw he
was sinking rapidly. In this sad moment
she forgot herself and the past in her efforts
to alleviate his sufferings. Convinced that
he was dying she felt she must tell him of
his real condition, and she tremblingly said:

" Father, do you know that you are almost
home? that you are now within the gates of
the Beulah-land ?"

"Am I, child ? Then ask Edward to pray
with me."

The request was granted. A warm and
tender prayer was offered. As they arose
they saw a halo of joy beaming from his
face and his eyes seemed fixed on Heaven.

" Beautiful, beautiful !" feebly lisped the
dying man, and Iola, holding his hand said :

" What is it, father?"

'' I see the shining shore, and that bright

FACING THE TRUTH. 21 5

city — its portals are open wide, the angels
are sweeping through the gates."

" Don't you hear them?
Don't you hear them,
Coming, coming over hill and plain,
Scattering music in their heavenly train?
Oh don't you hear the angels coming,
Singing as they come ?"

He was gasping and he reached his cold

thin hand to Iola and said : " Good-bye."

Then his face was bright, and looking about

his bedside, he seemed to see the heavenly

visitors, and, as if appealing to them, he

whispered feebly but earnestly,

" Oh ! bear me, angels,
Angels, bear me home,"

and the end of an eventful life had come, —
the angels had escorted the spirit of George
Graham to the presence of God.

Chapter XXIII.

VjVHE death of Mr. Graham was a pecu-
^JL!^ liarly sad one, not only grieving Iola,
but it opened anew the painful heart-wounds
in the history of her mother's life, and re*

2l6 IOLA; OR,

called the persecutions through which she
had walked. She had been able to think of
nothing else for days, and in her sleep the
events of other years were passing in pano-
ramic view, till she seemed to live over those
days of pain again.

At length there was a change. Iola was
transported in a dream from the scenes of
earth-born heart-aches to the Judgment.

The Judge and a company of sect-preach-
ers of different denominations, with their
respective congregations, first attracted her
attention. The Lord, in awful grandeur,
was upon his throne, and the assembled uni-
verse had gathered near, awaiting the final
decision. Silence was so intense as to be
painful.

The Judge called one of the preachers
with his congregation forward, and said :

" My servant, are all these yours?" Seeing
he hesitated to answer, the Judge added, by
way of explanation, " Did you win all of
these from the world?"

" No, Lord," the servant answered, " I
persuaded some of them to leave other
churches and come to mine."

" Take these, my angels, who have been

FACING THE TRUTH. 217

thus persuaded to leave other churches, and
place them here alone."

Then came another preacher with his flock
to be judged. Said the judge :

11 Are all these the fruits of your labors,
my servant?"

" No, Lord, I gathered a portion of them
from the labors of others."

" My angels," said the Judge, " take from
him the souls he has taken from another
fold, and place them with the others.

Then came another preacher with a small
flock, and the Judge said :

" Are all these yours?"

" Yea, Lord," the trembling servant an-
swered.

•' Where did you get them ?"

(< In protracted meetings, at the mourners'
bench, in school houses, in the wilderness,
on the mountains, in the valleys, in huts,
in the palaces of the rich, in the country and
in the cities. I went through the winter's
cold and summer's heat ; I went on long
journeys and lived on hard fare, with little
pay, and with the world, the flesh, and the
devil against me. Through all of this J
sought and found them,"

218 IOLA; OR,

" Who are they, my servant ?"

" Lord, they are Christians, for they have
been redeemed and washed in the blood of
Christ. They are thine, Master, — the
sheaves I have gathered for thee."

And the Judge said : " My angels, take
and give to him the souls others, through a
mistaken zeal, had persuaded to leave him-
Give them to my servants, who did not
proselyte, but sought to win their flocks from
the world, leaving my people to enjoy their
church-home in peace. It were a worthy
effort to compass sea and land to save a soul,
but it is a sin to proselyte my children, lead-
ing them under mistaken light from one fold
to another — they are all Mine."

Here the faces of the sect-preachers be-
came very sad. They looked one at another,
and then drew aside for consultation. Their
followers looked on in astonishment. Soon
they returned and advanced toward the
Judge. One drew nearer than the others
and appealing to the Judge said : " Master,
in behalf of myself and my brethren, I come
to plead for mercy. We mistook our mis-
sion, and much of the time we ought to have
given to leading the lost sheep to the

Facing the truth. 219

Shepherd of souls, we have spent in proselyt-
ing the members of other churches. Now
we see our mistake. Proselyting is not the
work thou gavest us to do, but pointing sin-
ners to Thee is the work of our lives. We
did wrong to trouble such as were already
sheltered in the fold. We did it in ignor-
ance.

11 Now, Lord, we come to ask permission to
return to our fields and do our work over
again, carrying the bread of life to the per-
ishing, instead of a " bone of contention" to
the saved. Grant us this privilege, and we
will no more divide thy church with ques-
tions which can do no good. If we may go
back, the burden of our hearts and tongues
shall be redeeming love and the salvation of
souls. Spare us, we pray thee, to go back
this once and then when thou callest us
home we will come bringing in the sheaves
from life's great harvest field."

Said the Judge, " Permission is given, and
you will go forth to teach the people — my
children — to love God supremely and one an-
other as members of a happy family. Let
none array a brother against a brother. We

220 I0LA; OR,

«
need united effort on the part of ail my
children to carry the world to the Cross of
Christ."

Here the Baptist, the Methodist, the
Presbyterian, the Lutheran and the Episco-
palian, with many other sects, hand in hand,
and heart to heart, went forth as brethren in
the Lord to bring sinners to repentance and
faith in Christ. As they walked forth, the
redeemed of Heaven, — they that had come
up through great tribulations, they that had
been saved by the blood of the Lamb, —
struck all their harps of gold, and, in one
rapturous strain, sang,

"Glory to God in the highest,"

and as they went forth a united band of
brethren in Jesus, proclaiming the good tid-
ings of salvation to all men, the angel of the
Lord followed after them, crying aloud,
" Iphedeiah" — -the Lord sets free.