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4^. y-^ff. 




THE PASTOR'S WIFE. 




/^a^i^^y^ c^-^^^it^^ 



.C^L. 



Xui'.diin .6. 3V,shopssv.Tle Sti-oel /fuiioal . 



THE PASTOR'S WIFE. 



MEMOIR 



MRS. SHERMAN, 



OF SURREY CHAPEL. 



By her husband.' 



LONDON: 
CHABLBS aiLPIN, S, BISHOPSeATB STBEET WITHOUT. 

184ff. 



LONDON : 

PBIKTKD BT BICHABD BABBETT, 

MABK LANE. 



PREFACE. 



It is a difficult duty for one tenderly related to a 
beloved saint^ to draw the faithful lineaments of her 
character^ and present a portrait easily recognised by 
those who were favoured by her friendship. Ardent 
afiFection may overlook defects, which others would re- 
cord, and fear of exaggeration omit excellencies, which 
deserve to be prominently exhibited. A looker-on sees 
more of the battle, and can better describe the re- 
spective qualities of the parties engaged in the conflict^ 
than the combatants themselves ; for, however each 
might be disposed to do justice to the valour manifested 
by his fellow-soldier, the very nearness of contact, and 
limited range of view, incapacitate them firom describing 
the whole operation, in the field of vision, which a spec- 
tator enjoys. And it would have been hailed as a great 
blessing, if some friend, who had known the dear de- 
parted from early life, could have been found to present 
her living likeness to those who have earnestly solicited 
some memorials of one whom they so ardently loved, and 



vi PREFACE. 

whose faith they desire to follow. The materials for a 
Memoir, though scantily preserved, would have been 
quite sufficient in a practised and skilful hand, to make 
many sincere hearts long to be like her, and to bring 
great glory to the Lord, for the abundant grace bestowed 
on his devoted child. 

Tet some advantages are possessed by a near relation 
over others. If the spectator of a battle can describe 
better the general operations of an army, the man who 
stands next to his comrade, and fights with him, can 
more minutely recite his valiant deeds, his patience, and 
victory. So in the case of this precious saint — ^her hus- 
band knew her best — ^had far greater opportunities than 
any of her friends, of observing her steady walk with 
God — ^her loving and Christlike spirit — her amiable 
deportment to all her circle of friends or dependants — 
and her self-denying and useful efibrts to win souls to 
her Saviour. Therefore, though deeply sensible that the 
sketch of her life here given will be rough and unfinished, 
and in no degree worthy of its subject, he believes it 
will possess greater advantages than if written by a less 
intimate acquaintance. His hope — ^his ardent prayer to 
God is, that He will give it His rich blessing, and cause 
many to follow her, as she followed Christ her Lord. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 

Birth — Her mother's judicious training — Contrast 
between the two sisters — Sweetness of temper — 
Natural, politeness — Anecdote of Rev. Matthew Wilks 
— School — Musical talent — Power of imitation . 1 

CHAPTER 11. 

Illness and death of her sister — Instrumental in the con- 
version of two persons — Her own decision for Christ 
— Letter on union with the church — Death of her 
young friend — Her own serious illness and recovery 12 

CHAPTER III. 

Marriage— First impressions on settling at Reading — 
Difficulties in the Sunday school — Maternal Society — 
Visit of Dr. and Mrs. Codman — Visit to the poor — 
Providential escape — Serious illness of herself and 
husband — Erection of chapel at W. — Fancy sale- 
Invitation to Surrey Chapel — Mixed feelings on leaving 
Reading 25 



VIU CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER IV. 

Removal to London — Sketch of the origin of Surrey 
Chapel — Her interest in the societies already estab- 
lished there — Commencement of Sabbath Bible class — 
Young ladies request the formation of a similar class — 
Fears and hopes respecting it — Letter to a young lady 
who had lost a sister — To two sisters on exalted piety 
— To one wishing to become a Sunday-school teacher — 
To oniB at school — To one whom God had chosen from 
a worldly family — To a friend on her birth-day — Joy 
that her efforts had been blessed — Building new school 
rooms — Fancy sale — Letter inviting co-operation . 46 



CHAPTER V. 

Formation of Maternal Association — Birth of her eldest 
daughter — Difficulties and anxieties respecting the 
Association — Formation of a similar one for the poor — 
Address to the poor mothers — Rules for the Association 
— Letters to the mothers 80 



CHAPTER VI. 

Proposed journey to Grafenberg — ^Arrival at Ostend — 
Brussels — Liege — Cologne— Bonn — The Rhine — Roder- 
burg — Andernach — Neuwied — Coblentz — Boppart — 
Mayence — ^Dr. Pinkerton — Christian intercourse with 
fellow-traveller — Leipsic — Dresden — Son placed at 
school there — Herrnhutt — Moravian worship - — H art- 
mann — Gnadenberg — Gorlitz — Breslau — Gratifying 
testimony to the integrity of the Herrnhutters — Frei- 
waldau — Record of her feelings on arriving at Gra- 
fenberg 103 



HHKe: 



CONTENTS. IX 



CHAPTER VII. 



Grafenberg — Water cure — Bigotry of the Austrian go- 
yemment — Influence of Popery — Temptations to which 
travellers are exposed — Description of place and people 
— Patients — Character of M. Priesnitz — Profanation of 
the Sabbath — Public worship in the cottage — Police 
interference — - Service continued •— Encouragement — 
Invalid clergyman — Irreligion and gaiety of some of 
the patients — Difficulty of introducing Bibles — Suc- 
ceeds in obtaining one — Joy and gratitude of the land- 
lady — Scene at Catholic feast — Enthusiasm and hope 
respecting the water cure — Various instances of its 
success — Dinner in honour of Queen Victoria's birth- 
day — Ignorance of the scriptures throughout Austriar— 
Oratorie — The Cistus — May Meetings — Eclipse of the 
sun — Visions of home — Sympathy of friends at Surrey 
— Last public service at Grafenberg — Public dinner 134 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Her daughter Selina left at Grafenberg — Interesting 
incident at the presentation of a German bible — Hans- 
dorff — Vienna — Linz — Gmunden — Royal party — Tee- 
totaJism — Hallstadt — Protestant pastor — Waterfall at 
GoUing — Saltmine at Hallein — Salzburg — Superstitious 
ceremonies at cathedral — Lake of Kbnigsee — Interest- 
ing incident at Soil — Innspruck — Tomb of Maximilian 
— Pass of the Arlberg — Hospice — Feldkirch — Service 
on Sabbath— Baths of Pfeffers— The Tamina— Via 
Mala — The Bemardin — Belinzona — Urseren — Devil's 
Bridge — The Teufelstein — Lake of Lucerne — The Righi 
— Pilatus — The Oberland — Lake^Pass of the Grimsel 
— The cataract of the Aar — Providential deliverance — 



CONTENTS. 

Glacier of the Rhone — Baths of Rosenlaui — Grindel- 
wald — Waiting maid — Wengern Alp— Avalanches of the 
Jongfrau — Staubbach — Berne — Preyburg — Lausanne 
T^te Noire — Ohamouni — ^Mont Blanc — Mer de Glace 
— Geneva — Dr. Malan — Neuch'atel — Basle — Stras- 
burg — Cologne — Rotterdam — Emotions on reaching 
England 178 



CHAPTER IX. 

Death of her daughter Selina — Affecting letter from 
Rev. A. Stewart — Her anxiety that the event should 
be improved to her classes — Funeral sermon — Letter 
to a young friend in Lancashire, urging immediate 
decision — Adopts a little Seminole Indian— His history 
— Marriage of her eldest daughter — Birth of her 
youngest child — Letter to her eldest child — To her 
mamma, comforting her in a season of dejection — Ill- 
ness of her babe — ^Death of her mother — Interest in 
the various religious institutions — Extracts from 
letters — On ascribing glory to man, rather than Gk>d — 
On tempering zeal with humility — On the scriptural 
warrant for taking an oath — Consolation to one of her 
class in the hospital — To one who wished to become a 
missionary — On self-examination — On obedience to pa- 
rents only ^^in the Lord" — Formation of missionary 
working party — Specimen of notes of invitation — 
Formation of another missionary working party — 
Meeting to consider objections — Letter to her class 
informing them of the result .... 236 

CHAPTER X. 

Commencement of illness — Winter residence at Brighton 
— ^Letter to a young lady, on the duty of taking care of 



CONTENTS. XI 

her health — Extracts from letters — Thanks to a friend 
for acts of kindness — To the Maternal Association — To 
her father's servant — To a young lady who had under- 
taken a class of Jewish children — ^Belieying hopes 
respecting her own children — Return to London — Con- 
tinued illness — Consultation of physicians — "Visit to 
Ventnor — Extract from her memorandum book — St. 
Boniface hotel — Establishes a Maternal Society — In- 
terest in a young widow — Persevering and successful 
efforts — Conversation with the servants — Liquidates 
the debt of the chapel — State of her health — Letter to 
a young friend in the North — Hopes of final recovery 290 

CHAPTER XI. 

Departure for Silesia— Arrival at Ostend — Cologne — 
Coblentz — Sabbath — ^Biberich — Wiesbaden — The Kur 
Saal — Leipsic — Dresden — Ottawalder Grund — The 
Bastei — Konigstein — English Church — The communion 
— Bautzen — Hirschberg — Buchwald — The Countess 
Reden and her sister — Family worship — Visit of Prince 
William and his son Prince Waldemar — The abbey 
and pavilion — Wang — Schmiedeburg — Consults Dr. 
Weigel — Bohemian Catholic — Fishbach — Warmbrunn 
— ^The Rettunghaus — Princess Reus — The Tyrolese Pro- 
testants — Sir J. Riddell — Baron Reidesel — Departure 
from Buchwald — Wittenberg — Berlin — Charlottenberg 
— Her husband's visit to the King of Prussia— Ranch, 
the sculptor — Orphan School — Kindness of the King — 
Potzdam — ^Magdeburg — Brunswick — Hamburg — Eng- 
glish Reformed Church— Embark for England . 310 

CHAPTER XIL 

Increased illness — Visit to Enfield — Resigns her Bible 
Classes — Letter to a lady on the unjust prosecution of 
her husband — On the return of her wedding-day — 



XU CONTENTS. 

Thanks for a present — Visit to St. Leonard's — ^Depres- 
sion of mind — Extracts of letters — To her husband 
— To her father — To a City Missionary on the death of 
his wife — To a young firiend stirring her up to spiri- 
tual activity — On submission to the Divine will — Ex- 
ertions to procure' an English Governess for the Coun- 
tess S , — Return to London — Extracts from letters 

— On judging uncharitably — On being prevented from 
attending evening worship — Peaceful acquiescence and 
confidence in God — To a Sunday School Teacher — On 
the death of a young person — On the formation of a 
select class for children — Winter residence at Hastings 
Relief from mental depression — Ministerial visits — 
Calmness with which she received Dr. Moore's opinion 
of immediate danger — Return home . . 365 

CHAPTER XIII. 

Farewell interviews — Sabbath class — Poor Maternal — 
Ladies' Maternal — Young Ladies' Bible Class — "Visits of 
Rev. George Clayton — Memoranda of last illness — ^Dr. 
. MacLean consulted — London Missionary Sermon — In- 
terview with Rev. J. A. James and others — Missionary 
communion — Last moments — Funeral — Funeral ser- 
mons — Poetic description of funeral scene . .414 

CHAPTER XIV. 

Character — Industry —Firmness and perseverance — Punc- 
tuality — Freedom from selfishness — Condescension — 
Humility — Love to all the people of God — ^Fervent 
piety — Unconscious influence . 453 



MEMOIR. 



CHAPTER I. 

FROM HER BIRTH TO HER CONVERSION. 

The beloved subject of this Memoir, was bom at 
Kentish Town, on September 14th, 1806. Her father, 
Benjamin Tucker, Esq., long known as the friend to 
ministers of Christ's holy gospel, of all denominations, 
and to the establishment of his kingdom on earth, had 
retired from active business, and devoted himself chiefly, 
to aid and carry on the worship of God in the vicinity 
in which he Hved. Her mother was the daughter of 
Joseph Page, Esq., to whose munificence the poor of 
the town of Basingstoke are much indebted for the 
erection and endowment of some almshouses for pious 
aged women. 

Her parents had two daughters, Mary, who died at 

the age of twenty-two, and Martha, whose history we 

now record. It was her privilege to have a mother, to 

whose piety and personal superintendence she was much 

y i' indebted for the formation of habits, which enriched her 



2 MEHOIB OF MBS. SHE&MAN. 

character, and rendered her so nsefdl and acceptable to 
the Church of Christ. Although it is a feet unques- 
tioned by all who revere the word of truth, that the 
most efficient maternal goidance cannot change the heart, 
and renew the nature for Grod, without the gracious in- 
fluence of his Spirit ; yet, where a mother unites piety, 
wisdom, and perseyerance, in the training of her chil- 
dren, she seldom fails to draw down that influence on 
her interesting charge. 

Education, especiaUy in the formation of character, 
does not consist merely in conveying to the mind ethical 
maxims, useful knowledge, and the higher branches of 
gospel lore, but in the living exhibition of personal 
graces, — a rigid love of truth, — ^a spirit of prayer, — ^a 
dependence on divine aid, — a delicate sense of purity, — 
and an indomitable perseverance in aiming to win the 
heart to Christ. 

These qualities eminently belonged to Mrs. Tucker. 
She was a woman of quiet, but fervent piety ; her regu- 
larity in retiring for private devotion at stated times, 
notwithstanding great personal indisposition, was sus- 
tained till within a few days of her decease ; her love of 
punctuality, neatness, and order, prevailed throughout 
every engagement for the Church, or for her family ; 
her attention and liberality to the poor were proverbial ; 
the delicacy of holiness was maintained in her conversa- 
tion and habits; and her constancy in training her 
children for God, had its reward in their early consecra- 
tion to his service. Beyond this, she was remarkable 
for her practical good sense, which, while it did not re- 



m 



JIEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. S 

ject the ornamental part of education, was generally 
directed to the promotion of some useful object of life. 

The value of such a mother is not always seen at the 
time. She may not be showy and attractive in her 
talents, or ensure the approbation of the theorist, but 
the patient labour of a few years, spent in the cultiva- 
tion of her infant charge, passes not away unobserved 
by those who watch for examples of educational power, 
and certainly not unrecompensed by the God of the fami- 
lies of the Earth. Let' not mothers, conscious of many 
defects in the education of their children, fear the re- 
sult, if they commit their way often to the Lord, and 
strive to exhibit the practical influence of godliness 
before them. Days will speak of the eflfects of such 
training. 

Perhaps few sisters, so nearly of an age, so seldom 
separated, and so closely united in afiection, have exhi- 
bited so complete a contrast in natural disposition, and 
intellectual character, as Mary and Martha Tucker. 
In early childhood, Mary was less engaging than her 
sister, and when she felt the importance of self-discipline, 
had more difficulties to contend with, being naturally 
of a less yielding temper ; consequently, their tempta- 
tions and pleasures, their pursuits and amusements, 
were almost entirely different. Abstruse reading and 
the acquisition of knowledge, were Mary's favourite 
pursuits, while to please and be pleased, — to be 
happy herself, and to promote the happiness of others, 
was Martha's highest aim, or rather the spontaneous 
result of her light and buoyant spirit. It must be 

B 2 



4 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

confessed, that her love of play sometimes prevented 
her from applying with sufficient diligence to her vari- 
ous studies, but while the masters who attended them, 
found their gravity sometimes overcome by the irre- 
sistible and fascinating playfulness of their younger 
pupil, to which they were either willingly yielding, or in 
vain attempting to subdue ; the elder undisturbed, was 
steadily pursuing her studies, in the acquisition of which, 
she needed rather a rein than a spur. 

Mary's natural reserve, and, perhaps, conscious supe- 
riority of intellect, made her at times appear distant to 
strangers, though to her chosen friends, her affection was 
warm, strong, and lasting. Martha could repel none ; — 
an extended hand could never be refused, or a smile un- 
retumed by her. " I love every body, and every body 
loves me,'' seemed to be the language of her confiding, 
happy temper. The tremulous frame alone, would be- 
tray the inward agitation from which Mary was at any 
time suflFering; while Martha would pour forth her 
childish sorrows, into the first sympathising bosom that 
presented itself. An act of condescension performed by 
Mary, was the result of principle — ^her first impulse 
being to receive, rather than bestow homage — ^while a pin 
dropped by an inferior would be immediately picked up 
by Martha, who seemed impelled intuitively to pay atten- 
tion to another, neither asking nor expecting a return. 

Let it not, however, be supposed, that the one was 
unamiable, or the other frivolous ; whatever tendency 
there might be in either to such dispositions, was effec- 
tually checked by their judicious training, and as they 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 5 

travelled on side by side in their singularly happy and 
joyous course, it would have been difficult to say which 
was most loved or most admired, since though the instru- 
ments upon which they played were so diflferent, no 
jarring sound was heard, but tones of harmony and love, 
which cheered and delighted a large circle of admiring 
firiends. Their difference of character, produced on 
Martha's lowly mind, that effect which difference of 
years alone usually produces ; and she looked up to her 
sister, only twenty months older than herself, with as 
much deference, as if she had been her senior, by so 
many years. 

In childhood and early youth, Martha (or as she was 
always called Patty) Tucker, was not exempt from many 
of the usual faults and foibles of that age, or free from 
that " foolishness," which Scripture and experience show, 
" is bound up in the heart of every child,'' and, perhaps, 
did not materially differ from her young companions, 
except in a more than usual volatility of spirits, and 
in a remarkable sweetness of temper. Her countenance 
was never disfigured by the pout of ill-humour, or the 
scowl of discontent, but was always smooth and serene, 
as the placid temper of which it was the faithful index. 
Those beautiful lines of Oowper, might with strict pro- 
priety be applied to her — 

•• Thy constant flow of love, which knew no fall ; 
Ne'er ronghen'd hj those cataracts and breaks, 
Which humour interposed too often makes." 

So completely and constantly was her smooth and open 



6 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

brow thus tmmffled, that she has been asked playfully 
to frown, to shew whether such an expression was pos- 
sible. Whenever her eye met the eye of another, it was 
invariably lighted up by a smile, and it was often said, 
" I dare not look at Patty in a place of worship, for she 
is sure to smile, look at her when and where you may." 
Nor was this the smile of mere placidity or indifference. 
Her good humour was an active principle ; she was ever 
the first to a^st or do a kind office, ever the first to 
yield precedence to another. Well can one who knew 
her from childhood remember, how she was at all times 
ready and willing, literally to be " the last of all, and 
the servant of all." Many instances might be men- 
tioned, trifling indeed in themselves, yet it is the lai^e 
aggregate of such little things, that makes up half the 
happiness of domestic life. 

Being one of a party assembled for the purpose of 
seeing several Exhibitions, while all were eagerly press- 
ing forward, anxious to obtain the best place, and the 
best view, Patty might always be seen behind, as they 
passed from room to room, trying to get a peep when 
and how she could, and showing by her patient but per- 
severing efforts, that she was not in the background 
from indifference to the pleasure the sight afforded, but 
from her readiness to yield to the equally eager, but 
more selfish anxiety of her companions. Another trait of 
her childhood should not be omitted — her natural polite- 
ness. While few have exceeded, or, perhaps, equalled 
her, in her fondness for play and sports of every kind, 
yet even in her most playful days, a stranger calling, or 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 7 

a guest staying at her father's hospitable house, was 
sure of receiving the most minute attentions from little 
Patty, — ^at the same time these were the attentions of a 
child ; as far removed from the womanly forwardness of 
some, as from the awkward shyness of others. The Rev. 
Matthew Wilks, happening to call one day, when Patty, 
then a very little child, was alone in the dining-room, 
she placed a chair for him, took his hat, and persuaded 
him to take some refreshment, engaging him in conver- 
sation till her mamma's return. When Mrs. Tucker 
came in, the old gentleman told her, how much he 
had been indebted to the kind attentions of her little 
daughter, adding, as he patted her on the shoulder, 
" You are the first young lady, that has taken a fancy 
to my old face.'' 

When she had attained thirteen years of age, her 
parents determined to send her from home for education, 
and she was placed with a friend at Hackney for a short 
time. It was thought that mixing with young ladies 
of various dispositions and habits, would tend to improve 
her character, and test her temper ; while she would gain 
such a knowledge of her fellow-probationers for another 
world, as it was impossible to attain under her father's 
roof. Her simple manners and amiable spirit, gained 
her the universal love of all her school-fellows. Some of 
the more selfish and less thoughtful, would experiment 
upon her generosity, by asking her to do something for 
them which they did not really require, in order to see 
if she could possibly refuse ; but at whatever sacrifice of 
comfort or convenience, if it was represented as an act 



8 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

that would save them trouble, or afford them pleasure, 
she was never known in a single instance to deny their 
request. It wiU easily be conceived that, with an en- 
gaging person and manners which led to her being 
always introduced on the arrival of company, with spirits 
buoyant and untiring, and with a temper so yielding 
and kind, school was not the most likely place to for- 
ward her education. The discovery was made, that 
whatever knowledge she might gain in associating with 
larger numbers of her own age and station, a loss was 
sustained of general information, which a mother's watch- 
ful attentions could alone supply, and even they seemed 
insufficient to fix so playful a mind upon usefcd and 
important lessons. It was feared, and often occaaioned 
much grief to her mother, that all the labour of educa- 
tion would be lost upon her — ^nothing seemed to remain 
in the memory, and as to the correct repetition of a task, 
carelessness and playfulness seemed to render it a thing 
utterly impossible. Latter years, however, proved that 
the seed sown was not lost — ^the substance of all that was 
taught her was preserved, and the memory, which was 
thought to be so defective, became by exercise one of the 
most retentive her husband ever knew. Parents must 
not allow themselves to grieve if their children do not 
excel in such branches of education as they fondly dream 
may best adapt them for life. The playfulness and 
buoyancy which are so difficult to control and fix on 
important subjects, may be the necessary qualifications 
for sustaining difficulties and performing duties which 
God has designed for them in after life — a part of the 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 9 

discipline and preparation of an All-wise mind who 
foresees and foreknows all they shall be and suffer. 
Bather let them be most anxious about their moral and 
spiritual training, to root in their hearts gospel maxims, 
and form their characters after the model of Jesus Christ, 
and in due season they shall reap, if they faint not 

Considerable musical talent developed itself in Martha 
from her childhood. When not able to reach the keys 
of the piano without standing on her toes, she picked 
out, untaught, the tunes she heard in the streets, and 
often interested her parents and friends by her constant 
readiness to amuse them with her little stock of musical 
knowledge. By tuition and practice she became a great 
proficient, both in taste and execution. Her musical 
memory was prodigious ; after once learning a composi- 
tion she never used notes, and retained it with accuracy 
as long as her fingers were able to move the keys. ! 
how has she calmed the troubled spirit of her husband, 
when pressed with duty and care, by the plaintive and 
joyous notes of her graceful hand, the very remembrance 
of which occasions a thrill of pleasure. Her sister Mary, 
who did not possess a correct ear, by remarkable perse- 
verance and submission to the instructions of Martha, 
attained such correctness and taste in singing, as to 
charm lier hearers. 

In addition to other peculiarities, Martha could 
assume almost any character, so naturally, as to avoid 
detection by her most intimate friends. Hearing that 
one of them (a neighbour, who had said it was impos- 
sible she could ever be deceived in Martha's face and 

B 3 



10 MEMOIR OF MBS. 8HEEMAN. 

person) wanted a servant, she went to her in that ca- 
pacity, and after referring to seyeral persons whom they 
both equally knew, for her character, was dismissed, the 
lady telling her, that she feared, from her countenance, 
she was not good tempered, but would inquire more 
about her. She did so that day, and found, to her 
astonishment, that her young friend with the merry face 
had overmatched all her discriminating powers. 

Her voice too was wholly under her control ; she could 
adapt it to the cry of the infant, or sing the deep-toned 
bass of a man, while she laid under contribution, to 
introduce at pleasure, the peculiar cries of animals and 
songs of birds, so that it was difficult even to believe they 
were not present. Her innocent and sparkling wit, and 
powers of comparison, which seemed to present them- 
selves without eflFort, enlivened her conversation, and 
never permitted a gloomy countenance long to remain in 
her presence. Yet the universal testimony of all who 
knew her in her youth and beauty would be, that a 
modest and retiring demeanour was her special grace. 
Though adorned with personal and mental attractions 
which few possess, nothing was obtruded, or permitted 
to appear, that would not minister pleasure to all her 
associates. 

With two such daughters, of equal stature and beau- 
tiful figure, of varied talents and engaging manners, the 
home of the parents was light with joy and gladness, and 
the promise of years of future felicity. Perhaps, no two 
young persons, without the manifestations of decided 
piety, ever contributed more to the comfort of home and 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 11 

the gratification of a select and valued circle of friends. 
Grave theological professors, as well as youthful admirers, 
found the moments delightfully glide away, while listen- 
ing to the dulcet notes and warbling voices of these 
sweet sisters, and have left the peaceful habitation after 
a well-spent evening, the more refreshed and fitted for 
severer studies. ! what is like an English home, where 
intelligence, piety, cheerfulness, and hospitality, com- 
bine to render it an earthly Paradise. 









FROM HER COl 



It would be . J , 

advantages, to tr . -, . 

of eternal thing '" f- ';^ 

Habituated to a . , * - - ^ -^-^ i? 

vance of prayer, "i ^ ( ' X ^l; v.., .^ 

ministry, she gen j' '- ;; ^ ^'^ j "' 

and that to be \ '^^. ■--, --r. «- "^ ^ -^-^ 

but carelessness, -... '; ( > '1^ c:) ^: I''- 

difference, and a- "" ^''- ^"^ ^ ^ ^ ^^ 

to a more conve 

venly things was evidently cherished, and the society of 
good men preferred to those of a worldly character, even 
in her days of indecision ; still her heart was a stranger 
to that vital piety, which makes Christ the centre of 
happiness, and communion with Him the highest plea- 
sure. Yet He who designed her to hold a distinguished 
place in his church, so ordered his Providence, that 
several events concurred to make her conversion to him- 
self singularly interesting. The first cloud that dark- 
ened the hitherto happy home of these two lovely sisters, 
was a serious illness which befell Mary, in the year 1826. 
A pic-nic party, of which Mary was one, spent the day 



MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEEMAN. 13 

in the neighbourhood of Totteridge, where they then 
resided. It was a day of uninterrupted pleasure, and all 
returned to their houses, delighted with the innocent 
recreation they had enjoyed, little thinking that Death 
had cast his dart securely into the lungs of one of their 
number. The next morning, Mary awoke with an entire 
loss of Yoice, which was attributed to a slight cold, from 
sitting on the grass the previous evening, though the 
weather was warm and unusually fine ; and which, it 
was hoped, a little care and medicine would soon remove. 
But the symptoms became every day more alarming ; all 
the aids of the first medical advice, with change of air 
and scene, were tried in vain ; she never recovered her 
voice ; and early in 1827, at the age of twenty-two, she 
sank under the influence of the same insidious disease 
which, twenty-one years afterwards, took her sister, then 
a matured Christian, to the world of bliss, into which 
she so early entered. 

Mary's timid and retiring character had deterred her 
from making a public profession, by union with a Chris- 
tian church, which before her death she much regretted, 
but she had long "adorned the doctrine of God her 
Saviour," by her consistent, though hidden walk, in 
the family and private circle, and died "in sure and 
certain hope of the resurrection to eternal life ;"" and 
now the sisters are reunited, and are singing together, 
in far sweeter strains than those by which they so often 
charmed their listening friends on earth, the praises of 
" Him who loved them, and washed them from their 
sins in his blood.'" 



14 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

The death of Mary was the first link in the chain of 
events, to bring Martha's heart under the dominion of 
Christ. It will easily be believed how tenderly she 
watched her sister during her long illness, how hope- 
fully she cherished every symptom of amendment, and 
how acute was her sorrow when her precious companion 
was taken from her ; but He who dried up the chief 
source of her earthly comfort, turned her affections into 
a new channel, which ran towards the heaven into which 
her sister had entered. Her enlightened judgment saw 
the vanity of health, pleasure, and talent, — ^the utter in- 
sufficiency of all human aid and comfort in the article of 
death, — ^and the absolute necessity of a conscious inte- 
rest in Christ, as the best preparation for a useful life, 
and a happy eternity. Her impressions, however, went 
no further, and it was reserved for another event to 
deepen and mature them. 

The daughter of an old and valued friend, about her 
own age, to whom she was warmly attached, came on a 
visit to her parents. Martha, though not valuing prayer 
as a spiritual «xercise, maintained with great punc- 
tuality and order the hour of retirement for reading the 
scriptures and devotion, to which she had been accus- 
tomed by her mother from her childhood, and to which 
the recent death of her sister had given a new impulse. 
Her young friend observed that this time was always 
kept sacred for the purpose, and as she did not think it 
absolutely necessary, manifested an indifference to the 
same scrupulous watchfulness. Martha entreated that 
she would retire for the same objects at the same time. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 15 

She consented, and not many months elapsed, before she 
began to feel the value of her soul, and the importance 
of its salvation — ^her reading and prayer attained a 
vitality and energy which Martha had never reached, 
and this duty became one of the most exquisite plea- 
sures. She saw, felt, and enjoyed the blessedness of 
the man whom God causes to approach unto him. And 
now her deepest concern was that her friend, who had 
urged her to practise this heavenly exercise, might enjoy 
its spiritual as well as formal observance. In her turn 
she became a pleader with Martha to seek Christ ear- 
nestly, and her salvation immediately ; and with God 
for her, that she might taste the blessing she had instru- 
mentally imparted to her friend. This Martha felt to 
be the one thing needful, and the peace and comfort she 
witnessed in her friend, gave energy to her petitions that 
she might fully possess the precious gift of justification. 
He who hears the sighing of the prisoner did not dis- 
dain her prayer. 

Behold another link in the chain of events, which led 
to her conversion and decision for God. A District 
Visiting Society was formed about this time in Enfield, 
to supply the temporal wants of the poor. One of the 
districts was assigned to Martha, and at her mother's 
request she began her responsible duty of visitation. 
Before she undertook it, she felt her utter incapacity to 
direct others to that fountain of life, of which she had 
not yet herself tasted, and often and earnestly entreated 
God to give her light and wisdom. 

Little did she think how God was about literally to 



16 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

answer that sincere desire. In the district assigned her, 
lived a poor woman of the name of Taylor, nearly ninety 
years of age, exceedingly ignorant and prejudiced. She 
had never entered a place of worship, except to be bap- 
tized, married, and churched, but, like Martha, was now 
earnestly desirous of understanding and enjoying the 
way of salvation, and proposed numerous questions to 
her young and interesting visitor about the atonement, 
and especially how she could become interested in it. 
Her enquiries were made with such evident sincerity and 
anxiety, as to send Martha home ejaculating, '^ Oh, that 
I could show this poor woman the salvation of Jesus 
Christ ! Teach me, Lord, the way of thy statutes ! " 
and resolving that she would search the Bible and other 
religious books, till she could understand this great doc- 
trine herself, and explain it to her aged pupil. For two 
months her visits were repeated nearly every day ; she be- 
came more and more interested in the increased anxiety of 
the old woman for explanations, which, though through 
her reading they were given with theological accuracy, 
were not tasted, and handled, and felt by herself as the 
word of life. One morning after earnest prayer to God to 
prepare her for her intended visit, she remembered, when 
living at Hackney, to have heard Dr. Burder deliver a 
series of lectures on the " Essentials of Religion,'' in which 
she was much interested. As she possessed them in a 
printed form, she took up the book, hoping to find some 
elucidation of the way of salvation, to assist her in her 
conversation that day with Mrs. Taylor. While reading, 
a flood of heavenly light seemed poured upon her mind. 



■R 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 17 

the complete and finished atonement of the Saviour, — the 
justification of a sinner by the righteousness of Christ 
imputed to him, — the fulness and freeness of divine grace 
in the universal call to come and partake of the gospel 
feast appeared so clear, so explicit, and so glorious, that 
she embraced them by faith, and had literally the joy 
and peace of believing. Now her emancipated spirit 
became a new creature, and revelled in the sunshine of 
divine love. New views of truth, new principles of 
action, new motives to serve Christ, new joys and plea- 
sures, new attachments to her Lord, and new hopes of 
celestial glory, now found a place in that heart, where 
dimness and doubt, anxiety and fear, only existed 
before ; and she knelt down to bedew with tears of joy 
the spot where a broken heart had pleaded for mercy, 
and to ofier sacrifices of praise to her gracious Lord. 

Better instructed now, she visited her charge with 
renewed diligence, and carried with her a precious balm 
— ^the finished and glorious work of the Lord Jesus, the 
value and blessedness of which she had realized ; com- 
mending and opening it to the eager mind of the aged 
inquirer, with a zeal and love proportionate to her own 
sense of its importance, and to the brief time her pupil 
had to Uve. Twice a week for four years, except when 
interrupted by sickness or absence from home, poor Mrs. 
Taylor saw her lovely young friend, and heard her fasci- 
nating and cheerful voice proclaim the glad tidings of 
salvation. Her mind gradually opened to receive them, 
and she became a truly converted woman. 

A few weeks before Mrs. Sherman died she remarked. 



18 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

" I never think of Heaven without an assurance that I 
shall meet Mrs. Taylor there. She did indeed receive 
the word of God as a little child. Though she ex- 
pressed herself ignorantly, yet her enjoyment of the pre- 
ciousness of Christ exceeded any thing I had ever seen. 
Her faith ripened into calm and settled assurance. 
The influence on her temper and habits was so remark- 
able, that though her ignorant children could not under- 
stand what had produced the change, yet they observed 
to a friend who accompanied me, that they were very glad 
of Miss Tucker'^s visits, as they had made their mother so 
kind and good-tempered, and so thankful for every thing 
done for her. A short time before she died, she grasped 
my hand, while the tears flowed down her furrowed 
cheeks, and thanked God that she had ever seen me, and 
heard of the way of salvation from my lips, concluding 
her speech, which she had made with great effort, with 
these words, ' There is hope for me, Miss,' and in a 
few minutes entered into bliss at the advanced age 
of ninety-three.'' 

It is not a little remarkable, that two precious souls 
should be given her, one before and another soon after 
her conversion, as the reward of effort to serve God, and 
do good to those who came within her reach. To these 
instances she often referred, as reasons why she should 
sow in all waters, and in the morning and evening, 
because she could not tell how or which of her efforts 
would prosper. Happy they who begin to work for God 
early, — and form the habit of aiming to win souls, before 
senseless, etiquette has quenched their first love, or the 



mmstmm^mm^mtmsum^mmmmBmmtmmgmtm^^ 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 19 

business and cares of life have deprived them of oppor- 
tunities, which the " unmarried'" have of pleasing Christ. 
During the continuance of her visits to Mrs. Taylor, and 
while the freshness of her joy in her Saviour lasted, she 
resolved to consecrate herself to his service more publicly, 
by uniting with the Church of Christ, assembling at 
Chase Side, Enfield, then under the care of the Bev. S. 
A. Davies. One of the most anxious periods of a young 
Christian's life, is that on which duty and privil^e 
alike urge a public avowal of faith in the atonement 
of Christ, love to his people, and separation from the 
world. Such it was to Martha. That after all she 
had experienced, she might be deluded, that in a short 
time she would make shipwreck of faith, and disgrace 
her profession, and that her talents and piety were so 
mean, that the church could not be benefited by her 
accession to its members, were suggestions which Satan 
urged to her great discouragement ; but the temptations 
were overruled for good. In consequence of them, the 
step was preceded by long and careful self-examination, 
much prayer to God, and consultation with her parents 
and Christian friends, who greatly encouraged her to 
more direct association with the friends of the Redeemer 
—the result of which was the following interesting letter 
to her pastor. 

« Clay HiU, July 2Sth, 1829. 

" Reverend Sib, 
"In venturing to offer myself as a candidate for 
admission into the visible Church of Christ, under your 



20 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

care, I trust I am influenced by a deep conviction of 
sin, and an abandonment of all hope of salvation, on 
any other ground than the all-sufficient sacrifice of the 
blessed Redeemer, who died the just for the unjust, to 
reconcile us to Ood ; and as an adequate return for such 
infinite love is wholly impossible, all I can do is to give 
myself to Him as my rightful owner. I therefore solemnly 
dedicate myself to Him, resolving that whatever others 
do, I will serve the Lord ; I renounce the world and its 
proffered joys, and will seek my happiness in Him alone 
— ^by his help and the influences of his Holy Spirit, I 
resolve to forsake all sin, to do his will, and strive after 
conformity to his precepts and example. On his pro- 
mises I rely, firmly convinced that not one of them can 
flail, for He is faithful that hath promised, 

* Though cisterns be broken, 

And creatures all fail, 
The word he hath spoken, 

Shall surely prevail.*' 

" To his faithful hand I commit my immortal soul, 
to be saved in his own appointed way, and though it 
may be by severe trials, I trust I shall be enabled to say 
* Thy will be done.' By obedience to the Divine com- 
mand, and partaking of the symbols of the body and 
blood of Christ, broken and shed for the remission of 
sins, I hope to keep up a memorial deeply humbling, of 
his dying love, to feed upon it for my spiritual nou- 
rishment and growth in grace, holiness, and resemblance 
to him who first loved me. I hereby declare my en- 
tire dependence on the merits of his death and righte- 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 21 

ousness for my acceptance with God — my desire to par- 
ticipate of Ixis fulness — ^that I am not ashamed to fight 
under his banner, and I trust the blessings resulting 
from a closer union to Christ, will be mine. I expect to 
be assailed by many temptations, but though, I hope, 
they will deeply humble and purify me ; yet trusting to the 
great Captain of my salvation alone, I shall finally over- 
come — ^it is written, ' He will not sufier you to be tempted 
above that ye are able, but will, with the temptation also 
make a way to escape/ — ' We have not a High Priest, 
who cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmi- 
ties, but was in all points tempted like as we are : ' 

* The desert his temptations knew, 
His conflict and his victory too.' 

Though blest from a child with every advantage from 
the pious instruction, example, and affectionate prayers 
of my beloved parents, it was not until death visited our 
family, in the removal of my dear and only sister, that 
I felt the emptiness of all worldly things, and their in- 
ability to console and support in affliction. To the free 
and unmerited grace of God, I am indebted, that I was 
thus led to seek Him, in whom alone true happiness is 
found ; weak and cold as are my faith and love, (if, in- 
deed, I have any) I would not part with that cheering 
hope of immortality which He has inspired in me, for all 
this world can promise. Oh ! may each day witness in 
me a growth in grace, and in the knowledge of God, an 
increasing relish for spiritual things, greater love to the 
word, ordinances, day, and people of God ; and, above 



22 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAK. 

all, to Him who has washed my soul in the fountain of 
his own precious blood. His be all the glory of my sal- 
vation, and if, indeed, it be my honour and felicity, to 
reach that blessed world where He is, with what joy 
shall I cast my crown at his feet, ascribing all my deli- 
verance to his matchless love. 

" I am. Rev. Sir, 

" Yours respectfully, 
"Martha Tucker." 

It will not create surprise that she was welcomed with 
joy by the pastor to the participation of Christian privi- 
leges, but it does not say much for the liveliness or 
spirituality of that church, that no one member of it, 
took any notice of the event, or gave her a word of 
encouragement, to pursue the course she had begun. 
This possibly arose, not from want of interest in her, or 
from indifference about the prosperity of Christ's king- 
dom, but from a cold carelessness, and looking at the 
event more as a matter of course, than as one in which 
the whole hierarchy of heaven rejoice. The members of 
a Christian Church cannot divine, what blessings God 
may give them, through the addition of a youthful 
member to their society : it may be one of the means 
of eliciting talent, and engaging prayer on behalf of 
that church, to give such a youth the impression that 
they are interested in his growth, piety, and the employ- 
ment of his energies for their Lord. A kind word for 
Christ, and a friendly shake of the hand, cost nothing 
to the giver, but often impart unspeakable encourage- 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 23 

ment to the receiver, and awake the best feelings of his 
heart. 

In the visitation of her district and communion with 
Christian friends, Martha continued her unostentatious 
course of usefulness, amidst many mental conflicts and 
disappointments. Some who have removed to various 
parts of the country, remember her visits and efforts, 
with great affection, and attribute their first impressions 
of love to the Saviour, or their more stedfast walk in 
his paths, to her interesting conversations. 

A new and heavy trial now awaited her. In the year 
1833, her young jBriend, to whom she had been useful, by 
directing her attention to punctual visits at the throne 
of grace, was seized with fever, while on a visit to Clay 
Hill, and was obliged to be removed home, where in a 
few days its malignity terminated her life, and ushered 
her into the presence of her Lord, with whom she had 
learned to hold sweet communion on earth. 

Martha was now not only deprived of a friend, whose 
piety and devotedness were likely to be helpful to her in 
her Christian course, but from having slept with her, she 
caught the infectious disease, and for some length of 
time, her Ufe hung on a very slender thread. Many 
have had cause to bless God for a sick chamber, and it 
proved to Martha, a school in which she attained an 
enlarged experience of God's love, and afforded a trial of 
those graces, which the Spirit of God had planted and 
nurtured. Her patience and love amid great suffering, 
were the admiration of all who saw her, or had the 
privilege of ministering to her necessities. In the course 



24 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

of a few months she recovered, and, by the blessing of 
God, enjoyed renewed health and increased deyotedness 
to her best Friend, who, as other friends were removed, 
became more precious to her redeemed and sanctified 
spirit. 



CHAPTER III. 

HEB MABBIAGE AND RESIDENCE AT BEADING. 

With a lovely person, a cultivated mind, an amiable 
temper, fascinating manners, and fervent piety, it is 
wonderful that Martha remained single till her 29 th 
year. It will readily be supposed, this was not because 
her heart and hand had been unsolicited. Numbers 
had sought that privilege of herself and of her father, 
but something had always occurred to prevent the 
acceptance of any ofiFer, or the winning of so suscep- 
tible and tender a heart. How can her now mourning 
widower sufficiently admire and adore the kindness of 
that Providence, which led his steps as a stranger to 
her habitation, and made him, who had fewer preten- 
sions than many who had previously sought her favour, 
the man of her preference and of her confidence. If a 
" prudent wife is from the Lord," surely, he must see 
the Divine hand most remarkably in this precious gift ; 
for in his deliberate judgment, and making all abate- 
ment for affectionate remembrance, and the superior 
estimation in which relatives and friends who are re- 
moved from us by death are held, there could scarcely 
be in this sinful world a being nearer perfection. And, 
he believes that he stands not alone in this judgment ; 

c 



26 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

but that it is the sober conviction of all who knew her 
most intimately, and who, at particular seasons have 
spontaneously borne similar t-estimony. 

She must have known, in accepting a widower with 
three children, and commencing life as a wife and a 
mother, that she burdened herself with responsible cares 
and duties, from which she had the opportunity, had 
she so determined, of being free ; but the sphere of 
usefulness in a large, united, and flourishing congr^- 
tion, situated in a lovely country town, and among a 
people wh^e vital religion abounded, no doubt had great 
influence on her decision. God had respect to that 
decision, and honoured it by making her extensively 
useful to souls, which satisfied and delighted her, more 
than if wealth and titles had been added to her name. 
Her epistolary correspondence preparatory to her mar-, 
riage, would for its piety and prudence be suited to meet 
any eye, and be a pattern for many young persons ; for 
while the warm affection of the heart to him who had 
gained it, was not wanting, the aspirations after spiri- 
tual blessings, and earnest desires for qualifications suit- 
able to the important sphere she was about to occupy, 
formed the chief subjects of her letters. The following 
extract is given as a specimen only. 

" I have often thought of your remark the other day, 
on the importance of deep personal piety, and its habitual 
manifestation at home, in order to usefulness abroad ; it 
completely coincides with my views, while it magnifies 
my feeling of unfitness for so lovely a situation, as it 
must be, when its duties are indeed performed. But my 



^'-r-:5=iHtJBIU_.i 11 . , - ^^Lm. I 



MEMOnt OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 27 

veiy own dear fiiend, wlio ' honours God, and whom 
God has honoured/ has no strength in himself ; all is im- 
parted, and even holy Paul, when declaring that he could 
^ do all things," was equally obliged to add, ' through 
Christ who strengtheneth me/ And may not your 
helpless Fatty hope for the much needed aid of Him, 
who surely has led her into so responsible a post ? 
When heaven's windows are opened for your supply, 
will she be passed by, whose necessities are so much 
greater, and when his Name would be peculiarly glorified, 
as the Divine hand would be most distinctly to be seen ! 
Oh, for the entire unreserved surrender of our all to the 
service of our God ! May our mutual affection be as oil 
to the wheels of devotion and obedience ! I am certain 
that our happiness must depend on our devotedness to 
God, and we would not have a happiness, falsely so 
called, which could exist without a life of communion 
with our Redeeming God. May but the promised Spirit 
be shed abundantly upon us, and then we have nothing 
to fear/' 

On the 3rd of March, 1835, the happy union was 
solemnized at Enfield Church. Two of the wedding 
party besides herself — ^aud one of them the most un- 
likely of the whole group, firom his youth, health, and 
promise of long life — are now in eternity ; so uncertain 
are the brightest prospects this world can give. Like 
all days of pleasure on earth, the cheerfulness of this 
day was occasionally interrupted by the tears of parents, 
who were confiding and resigning their only child, — and 
of a dutiful and affectionate daughter, who was sepa- 

c 2 



28 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

rating herself from the special care of those, who had 
tenderly loved her, and watched her interest with un- 
failing kindness. Amidst the hearty wishes and prayers 
of her friends, she left the parental roof, and after a tour 
in the north, arrived at her house in Beading. 

First impressions of any place are allowed to have 
great influence on our content and comfort. Let her 
describe them herself 

" I have now arrived at my apparently happy home. 
It is just what a minister's should be ; neat, genteel, and 
cheerful. The house stands on a rising ground, com- 
manding delightful views over the valley of the Eennet, 
and is very dry and healthy, and, as you would expect, 
very nicely furnished. Think of your poor Patty be- 
coming a mother without any suffering, and sitting down 
with three sweet children, of ages to understand and 
appreciate affection. I cannot tell what love a mother 
feels to those she has borne, but I think it impossible 
that I could love any children of my own, more than 
these whom I have adopted. May I have grace given 
to train them all for God, that if I should be removed 
from them, as their dear mother has been, they may 
follow her useful life and enter into her unspeakable 
joy. It is too early to say much about our mutual love, 
but it will comfort you to hear, what I believe you never 
questioned, that I find in my precious husband a de- 
voted, sympathising, forbearing heart. Much has he to 
overlook in my ignorance and want of tact, but by his 
persevering tuition I hope to be somewhat qualified for 
the important station I now fill. I can scarcely believe 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 29 

that I had the temerity to venture upon such an untried 
life, and did I not know the fulness of grace in my all- 
compassionate Saviour, and that he is fully acquainted 
with the desires of my heart, however feebly expressed 
to Him, to be the humble and honoured instrument of 
winning souls to himself, I must despair. 

" Every one of the congregation whom I have seen, 
cheers me with hope, and I esteem this especially kind, 
as I am the successor of one, who lives in their hearts 
and memories, and by her prudence, piety and superin- 
tendence, has won golden opinions from this interesting 
circle. ! how unworthy do I feel of such an honour, 
and how incapable of treading in her steps. Several of 
the members of the church are persons of exalted piety, 
such as I have longed to see, but never yet had inter- 
course with ; particularly Mr. F. He seems more like 
Enoch, than any other person to whom I can compare 
him, — ^walking with God, — ^never meeting you without 
a heart like a fountain, pouring out streams of love to 
Christ, and desires that all might know and love Him* 
The church is all activity ; most have something to do, 
and hearts to do it. In the villages around Reading, 
my dear husband has built five chapels, and taken two 
others under his charge. As objects in the landscape, 
they are exceedingly picturesque, being built of Bath 
stone, with towers or steeples, and placed in commanding 
situations. So that at home and abroad there is plenty 
to do. Pity your poor ignorant friend, who has every 
thing to learn, and is very slow in receiving instruction, 
and pray for her, that the Holy Spirit may qualify her 



so MBMOIB OF MBS. SHEBHAN. 

to puisue the glorious enterprize which presents itself to 
her eye ; tha^t Christ may be magnified in her^ whether 
it be by life or by death/' 

It is yery difficult for persons of courageous spirits, or 
for those whose lengthened labours in spiritual services 
have rendered them almost a habit, to understand the 
timidity and struggles which a delicate and hitherto 
untrained mind experiences, in its first effort in any 
public work for God. They forget their former dif- 
ficulties, or if the work became natural to them from the 
first, they cannot sympathise with any, whose efforts 
have been useful, but quite of another kind from those 
in which they have been so long engaged. Honce, in 
their zeal, instead of leading the timid, step by step, 
they often deter and distress them, by exclamations of 
astonishment at their backwardness or unfitness. Females, 
especially those of refined habits and superior education, 
require the most tender treatment, to induce them to 
employ their talents in any public manner, and have far 
more difficulties to overcome, than those of inferior know- 
ledge and station. ! what would many of them give 
for a kind and sympathising friend, who has been in 
similar circumstances before her activity for Christ com- 
menced, and who would lead them on gently as they 
were able to bear it. Such was Mrs. Sherman's difficulty 
in her new station. On the first Sunday after her en- 
trance into Beading, she went to the Sunday School, to 
see if she could be usefal by taking a class of children 
to instruct. Circumstances had not permitted her to 
undertake this duty at Enfield, and the labour was there* 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 31 

fore, wholly new to her. A lady who had generally 
Buperintended the female school, and who united in her 
character, piety, zeal, and perseyerance, very heartily 
welcomed her, and expressed her joy in finding the 
minister's wife willing to assist in training the children 
for heaven. Immediately in a great bustle, she intro- 
duced the female teachers to her, one after another, and 
assured them that now the minister's wife was come to 
their help, the school must prosper. '' I fear you mis- 
calculate my feeble help and influence,'' meekly replied 
Mrs. Sherman, heaying a deep sigh. Before the teachers 
dispersed to their classes, the zealous superintendent 
brought the books, and described the modes of register- 
ing their names, marking their attendance, and giving 
rewards. *^ Tou see, by these books, we have not been 
so orderly as we ought, but now you are come amongst 
us, every thing irill be set to rights ; and I merely shew 
you these, in order that jou may q>eak to the teachers, 
on the necessity of punctuality and regularity, in their 
attendance and records of the school You do not know 
what good you may do." 

With a heart palpitating from conscious ignorance of 
these plans, and giving the assurance that she could in- 
troduce no improvement, she v^tured to say, *' It is all 
new to me, and I shall have to learn of you ; I have 
never taught in a Sunday School before." " Indeed !" 
was the answer, with a very significant '^ hem" which 
conveyed more than it expressed. At this moment, a 
small bell rang for the opening of the school. " You 
will, of course, open the school with prayer for us," said 



32 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

the lady. " No, I am sorry that I cannot possibly nn- 
dertate that service; I have only prayed in private 
with a female, and should be quite confounded in the 
attempt to pray before so many/' was the answer. The 
blush rose in her cheeks, and her spirit became well nigh 
overwhelmed at the evidences of her incapacity, but she 
proceeded, " You will be kind enough to conduct the 
school as usual, and I will take a few children as a 
class, and try to help you." ** no,'' said this zealous 
friend, " I cannot pray before you, — ^we thought all our 
difficulties would be at an end when you came. We 
heard of your usefulness and zeal, and expect you to be 
a great blessing among us." Concealing her feelings as 
much as possible, and using her entreaties, Mrs. S. at 
last won over the superintendent to open the school, 
after which she took a class. At its conclusion, she re- 
turned home with a broken heart, and gave vent to her 
sorrow in a flood of tears, (an unusual thing with her, 
though of so tender a nature) and relating the circum- 
stances of the afternoon, expressed her fear that her 
husband had made a wretched choice, in introducing 
one so utterly unqualified to lead, as she was ; that every 
one was disappointed in her, and her Saviour's cause 
would suflFer from her inexperience. This was not the 
effect of mortified pride at the rough manner in which 
she had been treated, not a complaint of which escaped 
her lips — although no one felt more acutely, the want 
of courtesy and delicacy in a female, whenever they were 
manifested — ^but a deep sense of her deficiency in those 
qualifications, which she thought the cause of Christ re- 



MBMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 83 

quired from a minister's wife. Now this lady was a 
talented, useful, devoted person, but lacked the tact re- 
quired to draw out talent in another, and to treat with 
a delicate mind. Her sentiments were uttered with all 
honesty and zeal for her Master, and for the success of 
the school, yet they had a repellent, rather than an 
attractive power to a timid but willing mind, which, in- 
stead of receiving the encouragement that was so pecu- 
liarly needed, was thus made to feel more painfully help- 
less. how much wisdom, as well as zeal, is required 
in dealing with souls ! 

A band, however, of holy women, used influence of 
another and a better kind, more adapted to her difficul- 
ties and timidity. A Maternal Society had for some 
time been formed at Reading ; the object of which was, 
by prayer, reading, and conversation, to awaken in the 
minds of mothers, a proper sense of their duties and 
responsibilities, and to inform and direct them in their 
performance. These pious and educated mothers were 
representatives from all denominations of Christians in 
the town, and were like working-bees, bringing the honey 
they gathered from every source, and making it the 
common property of the whole association. Here social 
prayer was presented month after month, suggestions 
were offered, and she obtained the benefit of their more 
enlarged experience, in training the young immortals, 
she had so lovingly and so prayerfully taken under her 
wing. 

In giving her opinion of these meetings a little before 
her death, she said, ^' Although some who assembled on 

c3 



34 HEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBHAN. 

those occasions were a little too fast for me, I can never 
sufficiently thank God, for the benefit I deriyed £rom 
the prayers and conversation of those holy women. 
Though for a long time I could not be prevailed upon 
to pray before them, my mind was wonderfully awakened 
to more serious reflection on maternal responsibility, and 
led to attempt in maternal discipline, what, without 
these conversations, I should have deemed impracticable. 
Of what little advantage my precious children have de- 
rived from my imperfect endeavours for their salvation, 
much must be attributed to this heavenly intercourse ; 
and to my latest day, I shall remember with gratitude, 
the patience, sympathy, and affection of that group of 
mothers, for one so inexperienced.'' 

While these meetings were in progress, and a general 
desire prevailed for a revival in religion, the Rev. Dr. 
and Mrs. Godman firom America, visited Beading, and by 
their conversations tended greatly to increase the impres- 
sions of its necessity and attainableness. After dinner one 
day, when Mrs. Godman and Mrs. Sherman had retired, 
the latter entreated the former as a parting kindness, to 
pray with her, that this revival which had been the sub- 
ject of conversation might come to her, her children, her 
husband, and the Ghurch of Ghrist over which he pre- 
sided ; to which she readily consented, and after pouring 
out her heart in fervent supplication, which deeply 
affected Mrs. Sherman, Mrs. Godman, before they rose 
from their knees, turned to her timid friend and said, 
" Gan you allow me to go to America, without asking 
God to bless me and mine ? Gome thou blessed of the 



MSMOIB OF MBS. SHfiBMAN. 35 

Lord^ let GtoA and me hear your voice I" The appeal 
ifsa so well-timed, so reasonable, so affectionately uttered, 
and took her so entirely by surprise, that she had not 
time to summon her fears ; and with a sigh for help, 
which reached the Divine ear, she began, and in a strain 
of heavenly fervency and devotional power, poured out 
such petitions for her friend and her family, as com- 
pletely surprised and delighted her spirit. 

Observing Mrs. Godman much affected, her husband 
asked the Doctor if any thing had troubled her, '' Oh ! 
no," said he, " your precious wife has been praying with 
her, and she says, she has never heard a prayer like it for 
power and gracious effect on the heart : she is sure that 
no person can pray in that manner, who is not in the 
habit of very intimate communion with God.'' This 
was a great encouragement to her ever afterwards, and 
though she shunned the engagement, yet when pressed 
upon her by duty, she felt the difficulty far less than 
before. Thus does God, by his providence, often appear 
for us, eliciting hidden talent, and giving power to 
the faint among his disciples, for future efforts in his 
church. 

In all towns there is usually a special locality, where 
the poorest and most wretched of the inhabitants dwell. 
This locality in Reading was Hanover Square, in Coley 
Lane, very unlike the spot in London, from which its 
aristocratic name was taken — ^for its houses were very 
filthy, and its residents the worst of the population of 
that otherwise clean and respectable town. Here, how- 
ever, Mrs. Sherman commenced a systematic and regular 



36 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

weekly visitation of the families, instracting the poor 
ignorant mothers in the training of their children, and 
in the way to make domestic life happy ; as well as in 
the more important lessons of eyangelical truth. At 
first, she was coldly received, but after a few visits 
became such a favourite, that the children would run to 
welcome her, and every door in the district was thrown 
open to receive their " friend,'' which was the name by 
which they were accustomed to designate their bene- 
factress. In twelve months' labour, the locality assumed 
an air of greater cleanliness and comfort, many of its 
inhabitants attended the preaching of the gospel— every 
child capable of leaving home was sent to a Sunday 
School, and some few instances of hopeful conversion, 
were the high reward of this disinterested labour of love. 
And, generally speaking, wherever the effort is made in 
a right spirit to help and comfort the poor, and elevate 
their condition, without attempting to interfere with 
their independence, and make them slaves by charity, 
similar results will follow. 

During her eighteen months' residence in Reading, it 
pleased God to spare her life twice by great deliverances. 
In the month of July succeeding her marriage, her hus- 
band was driving her and a Christian friend in a phsBton 
to Henley ; when, about half the distance from that town, 
by some extraordinary neglect, the lynch-pin of the fore- 
wheel came out, and let the carriage down on one end of 
the fore-axle — ^the friend who sat behind was thrown out 
first, her husband next, and herself last ; but in falling 
out, her foot became entangled in the rein, which bound 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 87 

itself tightly round her ancle : the horse took fright and 
ran a distance of above one hundred yards, with Mrs. 
Sherman dragging by the side of the wheel. Never can 
the sensations of that moment be forgotten. Death in 
one of its horrid forms seemed inevitable. In an agony, 
strengthened by despair of help from man, for no crea- 
ture was near at the moment, her husband screamed to 
the horse to stop, and God made the animal obedient, — 
for, though running at an immense pace, the moment 
he heard his master's voice, he stood stone still, till he 
came up to him, and released his precious treasure, whom 
he received again as alive from the dead. ! none can 
tell the intense suffering of such a moment, to the spec- 
tator, but such as have experienced it, and it is hoped 
their number is small. Except her clothes being torn 
from her person, and some few lacerations of the skin, 
Mrs. Sherman had sustained little injury, and after a 
few days was as well as usual. This accident happened 
on a Friday evening, the regular evening on which the 
weekly concert for prayer was held, and arriving in 
Reading just at the time of their assembling, an oppor- 
tunity was aflforded, for her husband to inspire the people 
to unite with him in thanksgivings to God, for so signal 
a deliverance. 

The other affliction, to which allusion has been made, 
was an iUness which at an early stage was considered 
light, but which after a short time assumed a very formi- 
dable character, and threatened fatal consequences, if not 
speedily checked. That which peculiarly aggravated her 
trial, was her husband's affliction at the same time. He 



38 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

was engaged to preach at the opening of a new chapel in 
the month of January, and preparatory to preaching, as 
the only place of retirement that conld be had, he was 
put into an unfinished vestry, the plaster of which was 
streaming with water. It was a bitter, frosty night, 
and as he sat warming himself by a fire made of 
wood, in a ^ate formed by a few bricks, he soon felt 
alternately shivering with cold, and burning with heat. 
After the service, he mentioned to a friend, who drove 
him a distance of about fifteen miles, in a gig to Lon- 
don, his fears that a severe cold would be the result, the 
symptoms of which clearly enough developed themselves, 
soon after his arrival in Beading. In a few days brain 
fever began to appear — ^the head was shaved — ^ice was 
applied, and copious bleeding resorted to, and at length, 
though the symptoms were subdued, fears were expressed 
that the system would not rally. God, however, gra- 
ciously heard prayer, and restored him to convalescence ; 
but the first time of going out to the house of God, fresh 
cold was taken. The symptoms returned in an aggra- 
vated form, and for three weeks very slight hopes were 
entertained by the medical attendant of ultimate resto- 
ration. After another month of severe distress, improve- 
ment began to manifest itself, and again he was per- 
mitted to sing in the sanctuary, " I was brought low, 
and he helped me." 

To be herself a prisoner during the greater portion of 
her husband's affliction, and to be unable to minister to 
him, was to that tender heart an aggravation of sufier- 
ing, which required all the courageous eflForts of faith 



MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAN. 39 

and patience to bear meekly. And why was it sent ? 
Not to awaken love — ^in that she abounded — ^but to make 
affection appear in an ingenious method of ministration^ 
which tended much to calm the slightiy disturbed intel- 
lect of her fellow-sufferer. She wrote sentiments and 
portions of Scripture many times during the day, and 
sent them to be read as he could bear them. And 
truly they were like drops of dew on the parched flower. 
Long conversations, or reading, or prayers — ^a head 
weakened by suffering cannot endure ; but a golden 
sentence, selected for you from the book of God, when 
you cannot think for yourself, and sent unexpectedly, 
when you most need help ; is a boon which a gracioua 
heart appreciates. 

When health was again mercifully vouchsafed to her, 
the work of the Lord was her chief delight. Though 
a dear lover of nature, and with a refined taste capable 
of rushing its beauties, all her drives round the 
country were made subservient to the welfare of souls, 
and were sure to have associated with them, errands of 
mercy to the villagers. It will surprise none that she 
took the deepest interest in the beautiful little fabrics 
which had been erected, and still more in the congrega- 
tions which assembled within them, to listen to the glad 
tidings of salvation. 

The circumstances attending the building of one of 
those houses of prayer, gave an opportunity for the dis- 
play of her energy and zeal on its behalf, and laid the 
villagers under lasting obligations. A small estate de- 
scended by will to a person at W , with these pro- 



40 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

visions, namely, that if at any time the legatee should 
dispose of the land for erecting a place of worship 
thereon, it should descend to another person. But a 
blast seemed to rest upon the property, and it was 
obliged to be sold. The Committee of the Village Sta- 
tions bought it, and erected a neat and commodious 
chapel on the very sit-e which had been thus interdicted. 
It was thought, that as the congregations of Reading 
were much interested in the moyement, a sale of useful 
and fancy articles would greatly assist in liquidating the 
debt incurred, and into this efiFort Mrs. Sherman threw, 
all her energies. She wrote letters to friends in all 
parts of the country, and obtained contributions from 
many fair and Christian hands. A large tent, ordinarily 
used for anniversary occasions in the villages, was pitched 
in a field in the Oxford Road, close to the town of 
Reading. Decorated with flowers and fruits, with draw- 
ings and prints, with needle-work and ornaments — ^it 
presented certainly one of the most pleasing exhibitions 
ordinarily witnessed, and drew from those who cared 
little about the object of the sale, admiration and wonder 
at the number and quality of the articles shown. 

Inspired by her example and Christian love, many of 
her female friends, with great personal sacrifices, joined 
in the effort, and for two days laboured in their vocation 
with modesty and fidelity. The summit of her hopes 
was to raise <£'50; but the numerous gifts, the zeal of 
the friends, and the willingness to purchase, gave satis- 
factory promise of a much larger amount, and in the 
evening, as her husband returned from preaching at one 



MBMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 41 

of these Stations, she, with a countenance beaming with 
benevolence and joy — ^he thinks he sees it now — ^laid 
before him a bag containing .£*97, as the produce of the 
first day's sale. The second day yielded above d£*100, 
and a benevolent lady, as a reward for her diligence, 
added another hundred, so that <^300, which nearly 
liquidated the whole debt, were realized by her eflForts 
in those two days. Much has been said against these 
sales for religious objects, but conducted and super- 
intended as this sale was, the most scrupulous would 
have been silenced. It was begun with invoking by 
prayer, the blessing and favour of God, and concluded 
with praise to Him for his mercies, which tended greatly 
to keep every one selling, seriously cheerful ; and during 
the whole time, no circumstance occurred to wound piety, 
or defeat the excellent design. 

Some short time previous to her marriage, her hus- 
band had received a pressing invitation to become the 
successor of the late Rev. Rowland Hill, at Surrey 
Chapel ; but as evangelical religion did not flourish in 
the Church of England at Reading, and the claims of 
the people of his charge upon his affections and labours 
were pre-eminent ; after conference and prayer with the 
elders of the Church, he believed it to be his duty to 
decline the honourable and important post. In the 
spring of 1836, the invitation was renewed, accompanied 
by a letter from the church and congregation at Surrey 
Chapel, signed by above 1200 persons. 

A great alteration had, during the interval, taken 
place in the town of Reading. The pulpit of every 



42 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

church but one, was occupied by an evangelical clergy- 
man ; several of the principal persons in the congrega- 
tion, who were attached members of the Church of 
England, had wholly left, to worship with those of their 
own communion, or were in the habit of only partially 
attending at Castle Street Chapel, and the consequence 
was, that the interest such persons had previously felt 
in the pastor, and the Church of Christ which he served, 
was divided, and it was difficult to maintain the same 
communion with them, or carry out the same designs of 
usefulness, in which formerly they had mutually taken 
such deep interest. And although many '^ clav^ unto 
him,'^ yet it seemed plain to his judgment, and to that 
of his wife, that now the Lord said in his providence, 
*' Arise ye and depart, for this is not your rest \*' which 
was confirmed by conference with ministmal brethren, 
who knew the claims of both congregations, and who 
gave their unanimous verdict in favour of a removal to 
Surrey Chapel. 

The following letter, on the receipt of a reticule beau- 
tifully wrought by a dear friend in London, and sent 
for the purpose of holding her tracts for Hanover Square, 
will show her feelings in leaving, as she ever called it, 
"dear Beading.'' 

«-4prf7 8<A, 1836. 
" I think, my sweet friend, you must have been sur- 
prised at not having received from me, before this time, 
some acknowledgment of your very elegant and useful 
present ; doubly useful, as containing two beautiful little 



1 



HEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 43 

Tolnmes. Many, many tlianks for your f^ieat kindness 
to so .unworthy an indiyidual ; I think it, at present, 
too delicate to be appropriated as you intended; the 
filthy tracts I usually receive from Hanover Square, 
would soon decide the fate of the reticule : when it has 
moved for a season in a higher sphere, and its beauty 
begins to fade, it will probably be applied as you pro- 
pose ; but if I can divine at all, that will not be in 
dear Reading. How true is the old adage, ^ Blessings 
brighten as they take their flight.' I see charms in 
Hanover Square, notwithstanding the wretchedness of 
its inhabitants, which I never saw before, when I think 
what the poor of London must be. But I would forget my 
comforts, which, in case of our removal, must be parted 
with, and lose my own will in that of Him, who, I 
firmly believe, will be our Guide. What would we live 
for, but to glorify God ? and what are outward comforts 
when compared with the honour — ^the luxuiy of working 
for God. I sometimes look with selfish pleasure on my 
pretty house and prospect, and grieve to exchange it for 
smoke and confined air, &c. ; but it is not always that 
self so frightfully predominates. If we may but be 
made instruments of greater usefulness, and of extend- 
ing the' kingdom of Christ, nothing of an earthly loss or 
sacrifice will be thought of in comparison."' 

After sixteen years of labour among a devoted and 
affectionate people, it is no easy thing for a minister to 
bid them farewell, especially if they be the first sixteen 
years of pastoral effort, when zeal is most fervent, when 



44 MEMOIB OF MBS. SH£EMAN. 

the affections are warmest, and friendships are most 
easily formed. Oh ! the pangs occasioned by tearing 
asunder the bands of union between his converts and 
him who had begotten them in the gospel -, by leaving 
the frequented walk, and the study, where the voice of 
prayer had secretly ascended in fervent and constant 
supplications, for the Spirit of God to fill their hearts 
and his house ; by turning away from the spot where 
his children had been reared, and the precious dust of 
one who had shared his early joys and trials was depo- 
sited, and by sacrificing promised wealth and independ- 
ence, to obey what he believed to be the will of God ! 

In all these sensations, the subject of this Memoir 
largely shared, and cheered her husband with many 
gladdening hopes of bright days, of glorious conversions 
to Christ amid an abundant population, and of causes 
of more errands to God's throne together, by reason of 
more oppressive duties. Happy the man who, in such 
circumstances, has such " a help meet for him." 



CHAPTER IV. 

HER REMOVAL TO SURREY CHAPEL, AND LABOURS 
AMONG THE YOUNG. 

On Sabbath-day, August 27th, 1836, her husband 
preached his last sermon at Castle Street Chapel, Read- 
ing, to a vast and deeply-aflFected congregation ; and on 
the Tuesday following, she bade farewell to those who 
had so kindly and so tenderly assisted her, in her new 
and responsible duties. Crowds gathered round the car- 
riage to have the last shake of the hand, and a smile 
from that loving countenance which conveyed such in- 
expressible sweetness; while mutual good wishes and 
prayers were exchanged amid many tears. After three 
days' sojourn at Enfield with her parents, she took up 
her residence at the parsonage adjoining Surrey Chapel, 
built by Mr. Hill, and in which he had lived for above 
fifty years. 

It may not be uninteresting, and seems almost neces- 
sary, in order to estimate her labours and devotedness, 
to give a brief sketch of the origin of Surrey Chapel, 
and the state of the church and congregation there, at 
the time she arrived. 

About the middle of the eighteenth century, spiritual 
darkness prevailed over England, and especially over the 
metropolis, to an extent of which at present, we have but 



■«9" 



46 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAIT. 

little conception. All denominations of Chiistians were 
sunk into a state of lukewarmness, and almost entirely 
neglected the claims of a perishing population. Vice 
and immorality abounded among all classes of the com- 
munity, the Sabbath-day was awfully profaned, very few 
of the cleigy knew or preached the gospel, but substi- 
tuted a cold, heartless system of morality for its soul- 
saving doctrines ; and the few dissenting ministers who 
did preach it, delivered its truths in a formal, precise, 
unimpressive manner ; so that the number of places of 
worship was comparatively small, and most were ill 
attended. 

At this period, it pleased Ood to raise up a few indi- 
viduals, who were as eminent for their godliness, as for 
their zeaL Careless of the opinions of the world, and 
determined to exalt the kingdom of their Saviour, they 
braved danger and endured persecution, in their efforts 
to awaken sinneis to a concern for their eternal int-e- 
rests. The Revs. G. Whitfield, John and Charles 
Wesley, John Berridge, W. Romaine, John Newton, J. 
Jones, are names well known in' this religious reforma- 
tion ; — among the laity, the Countess of Huntingdon, 
Sir Richard Hill, and several of the nobility and gentry, 
stood nobly forward to help in the good work. To the 
honoured names of these champions for Christ, must be 
added, that of the Rev. Rowland Hill, who was the sixth 
son of Sir Rowland Hill, Baronet, of Hawkstone, 
Shropshire. He was educated at Eton, and after taking 
his degree at Cambridge, on Trinity Sunday, June 6th, 
1773, received deacon's orders, from Dr. Wills, the 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBIIAN. 47 

Bishop of Bath and Wells. Yearning over the spiritual 
miseries of men, he could not confine himself to the 
more regular and established mode of preaching in a 
Church ; but gladly engaged in that work wherever he 
could gather a congregation ; whether in the market- 
place, or in the cathedral ; beneath the shade of a tree, 
or in the dissenting meeting-house; his object being 
to win souls to Christ, and ally th^n to his spiritual • 
church, found in every visible congregation of his wor- 
shippers. After having for some years preached in most 
of the counties of England ; in many of the churches, 
chapels, and streets of the metropolis ; and in the fields 
and commons of its vicinity, to large and deeply-im- 
pressed audiences, he det^mined to erect a chapel in 
the southern part of London. 

A liberal subscription was commenced, to which he 
was the chief contributor. A site in St. George's Fields 
wae obtained, and the first stone of Surrey Chapel was 
laid by its future minister, on June 24th, 1 782. In the 
course of a year it was erected, and opened for Divine 
worship, June 8th, 1783 ; on which occasion, its founder 
preached in the morning, firom 1 Cor. i 23, and the 
Rev. J. Piercy in the evening, from Psal. Ixxiv. 22. The 
building is octagonal, and accommodates between t}YO 
and three thousand persons. 

Mr. Hill continued the pastor, during a period of 
nearly fifty years, until his death, which happened on 
April 11th, 1833 ; and after that event, for three years 
and-a-half, the congregation was served by ministers 
from various parts of the country, till September 4th, 



48 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

1836, on which Sabbath the present minister began his 
responsible labours by preaching from Psal. Ixxi. 16. 
" I will go in the strength of the Lord God, I will 
make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine 
only.^' 

From the foundation of Surrey Chapel, Mr. Hill had 
collected around him a nxunber of holy and liberal men, 
who by their labours and property, were ever ready to 
second and carry out his designs of usefulness ; so that 
the congregation took part in originating some, and in 
largely supporting most of the existing institutions for 
evangelizing the population, and for bettering their tem- 
poral condition. It was therefore known, as a focus of 
liberality and activity, to which Mr. Hill by his muni- 
ficence and devotedness set a noble example. All its ori- 
ginal founders had finished their earthly course, but a 
band of Christians of similar devotedness, if not of equal 
wealth, had been raised up to succeed them. From the 
infirmities of Mr. Hill in the latter years of his life, he was 
not able to pay the same attention to its interests, as in 
his prime and energy ; and a term of three years and-a- 
half without a pastor, was not likely to improve the order 
and interests of the church and congregation. Still, 
even then it might be called a flourishing church. It 
consisted of 550 members in actual attendance, above 
2500 children were under Sabbath instruction by 300 
teachers. The Benevolent, Missionary, Bible, Tract, 
and other Societies were prospering, and many believers 
valuing Christian privileges, were waiting until the ap- 
pointment of a pastor, to be united to the church. 



I0VP 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 4d 

The wisdom required in the newly appointed minister 
and his wife, was, to keep this vast machinery in accele- 
rated motion — to bring into nse these already prepared 
materials — ^to confirm the members in their acts of 
piety and devotedness — ^and, though without the ample 
means of Mr. Hill, to set such an example of liberality, 
as might advance, rather than check, the generosity 
of the congregation. For such purposes, Mrs. Sherman 
was pre-eminently adapted, as her future course gave 
the most satisfactory evidence ; and her husband on 
looking back, cannot but attribute, under the Divine 
blessing, much of the harmony, piety, and zeal evinced, 
to her prudence, love, example, and unceasing devoted- 
ness to the interests of the Church and its Institutions. 

The first object to which she directed her attention, 
was the formation of a class of young females, too old 
to attend the Sunday School, and too young and inex- 
perienced to assist in teaching, — ^with the hope that by 
preparatory instruction and discipline, they might here- 
after become intelligent and useful teachers in the 
various schools belonging to the congregation. The fact 
had often occasioned her considerable anxiety, that a 
very large proportion of our Sunday scholars, when they 
arrive at the age of fourteen or fifteen, commence a sys- 
tem of Sabbath profanation, are lost to the congregations 
who train them, and seldom attend a place of worship ; 
and she determined, if possible, td arrest the evil, by 
giving the females an opportunity of still obtaining in- 
struction, without going into the school. The dining- 
room in the parsonage was appropriated to their use on 

D 



50 MEMOIR OP MRS. SHERMAN. 

the Sabbath afternoon, and she commenced her first 
eflfort with fifty-three scholars, on December 1st, 1836, 
having previously circulated the following rules printed 
on a card : — 

KULES OF MRS. SHERMAN'S CLASS. 

" 1. That every Member cesolve to assist in Sabbath School 
Instruction, unless providential circumstances interpose, and 
consider it her duty, therefore, to qualify herself for the work 
by diligent and prayerful study of the Word of God. 

" 2. That every Member in leaving the Class for this object, 
inform the Teacher of her intention on the previous Sabbath, 
and receive from her a note of recommendation to the Super- 
intendent of the School with which she is to be associated. 

** 3. That every Member be in her place at half-past Two, and 
on ihejlnt Sabbath in the Month at Three o'clock ; and none be 
admitted after the conclusion of Prayer, unless a satisfactory rea- 
son be assigned ; those only being considered Members, whose 
attendance is punctml and congtant. 

"4. That the names of the Members be read at the conclusion of 
Prayer ; and those who are absent during that exercise more than 
four times during the Quarter, without assigning a sut<a2>/e reason, 
be erased from the Books, to prevent the evil example and dis- 
turbance of late attendance. 

** 6. That the use of the Library be confined to the regular 
Members of the Class, and no Volume be retained more than a 
Fortnight : the Librarian will renew the time, if more is re- 
quired. 

"6. That every Member leave the Library as soon as the Meet- 
ing is closed." 

Her highest ohject was to awaken conviction of their 
sinful state ; and hj lovely exhibitions of Christ and his 
salvation, to bring them to decision for him. The sub- 
jects she chose were plain and full of the gospel ; the 
plenitude of grace, and the beauty of holiness, were her 
favourite themes, illustrated with the biography of the 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 51 

ancient saints of holy writ, or of modern believers whose 
names and characters were familiar to the Christian world. 
She had a peculiarly happy art of interspersing hints on 
neatness in dress, — on habits of domestic economy, — 
on cleanliness, order, and punctuality, — on submission 
to parents — ^which told with great eflFect on their minds ; 
and many of the scholars, now mothers of families, 
recollect and repeat those monitions with gratitude and 
joy. It is remarkable how successful her efforts in this 
class were, with respect to the decision of the scholars — 
scarcely one who continued with her any length of time 
remained unconnected with the church ; and though she 
had her disappointments and trials in some, by far the 
greater number were ornaments to their profession, and 
zealous for the extension of the Redeemer's kingdom. 

After nearly twelve months of successful tuition in 
this first class, the young ladies of the congregation de- 
sired that similar advantages might be extended to 
them, as the means of bringing them to God and his 
church ; and, much to their honour, they wrote an inte- 
resting letter of entreaty, that they might share the love 
and wisdom of her instructions, at such times as she 
might feel consistent with her increasing engagements. 

The following is the answer sent to their solici- 
tations : — 

« Surrey Parsonage, December 13<ft, 1837. 

" Permit me, my dear young Mends, to express the 
gratification which your request has afforded me, as it 
proves your desire after more intimate acquaintance with 

D 2 



52 MEMOIR OF MES. SHEBMAN. 

those precious truths which ^ are able to make tis wise 
unto salvation/ Happy should I be, indeed, if my own 
scriptural knowledge justified your flattering supposition 
that I can assist you ; my ignorance is a source of daily, 
though, I trust, not quite idle, lamentation ; but while I 
am endeavouring to remove the evil I mourn, by read* 
ing and prayer, conscience tells me I shall decline one 
most effectual means of accomplishing my object, and 
also incur guilt, if I refuse compliance with the request 
to impart to others my little store, as I obtain it. If, 
therefore, my young friends will come, expecting very 
little from me, but much from that heavenly Teacher, 
who will, I trust, ever come with them, it will delight 
me to do what I can — not to make them theologians — 
this is neither my ambition nor my province — ^but to aid 
them, by the scripture model alone, in the formation of 
that Christian character to which they aspire. 

" You will allow me to make two stipulations — one, . 
that perfect punctuality be invariably observed in meet^ 
ing and separating ; — it will always afford me pleasure 
to converse with any who may wish to see me, but not 
either before or after these meetings, the time so occu> 
pied being the utmost I can spare ; — ^in addition to 
which, if God should deign to produce impression on 
the mind, conversation of any kind may remove it. 
Another stipulation is, that there be much prayer for 
the influences of the Spirit of truth, that he may ' teach 
us all things,' and smile upon the attempt from which 
I shrink, while I look at my own utter insufficiency ; — 
but when iny faith can rest upon the promise, ' my 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SUEBMAX. 53 

grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is per- 
fected in weakness/ I can say with confidence — I wel- 
come you ; and I believe we shall together pluck of the 
fruits of the tree of life, on this side of the river, and 
eat, and live for ever. 

" The first Tuesday in the month, at twelve o'clock, 
will suit my conveiuence ; — as our first meeting, Tues- 
day, January 2nd, will necessarily be rather introduc- 
tory, any alteration that is deemed desirable, I will 
endeavour to make, if then proposed.. Let us all be 
earnest in prayer, that we may be sanctified through 
the truth, and thus be made meet for the inheritance 
of the saints in light. 

^' Believe me, my dear young friends, 
'^Yours in much aflfection, 

**M. Shebman/' 

Her notes which are preserved, shew that pfeparations 
for these classes cost her much prayer and labour, in 
order to take to her young friends something suitable to 
their age, station, and circumstances. Each exercise 
was written twice over, once roughly, as thoughts oc- 
curred, and treasure was supplied by reading — ^then more 
correctly arranged and enlarged ; and each class had its 
separate preparatipn, for she argued, — that as the pupils 
were dissimilar in station and education, they required 
to be addressed accordingly, and never would use the 
exercises of the one for the other. Her labour was 
therefore, proportionately increased, but a freshness 
and unction was given to her addresses which could 



54 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

scarcely have been preserved by repetition. It was often 
a cause of astonishment to those who were with her, 
that with engagements incident to so large a congrega- 
tion, which would have crushed an ordinary mind, and 
with an exceedingly extensive and voluminous corre- 
spondence, both foreign and domestic, which she kept 
up with remarkable order and spirit, she could find time 
for these well-digested preparations, yet she was never 
known to finish one on the morning on which she deli- 
vered it, — ^it was ready generally two or three days be- 
fore it was required, and never later than the previous 
evening. Scraps of time were so judiciously improved, 
that she seemed never to want il. . Every place, too, she 
could make her study, and turn from one subject to 
another with the greatest facility. 

In this manner she prepared, and afterwards delivered 
a course of studies on the whole of the book of Genesis, 
— on the Parables of our Lord, — on the addresses to the 
Seven Churches of Asia, — on the Types of Christ, — on 
part of the Epistle to the Romans, — ^and on the Person, 
Work and Graces of the Holy Spirit. In describing to 
one whom she loved, the nature of these preparations, she 
observed, *' My responsibility often overwhelmed me, but 
it compelled me the more frequently to visit the throne 
of grace, and could any one know the precious, the inde- 
scribably precious communion I have had with God 
under the lime trees at Enfield, and in my chamber, 
they would envy me the spiritual luxury. So unskilled 
a mind as mine required more divine influence than 
others better taught, and my Heavenly Father was gra- 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAIT. 55 

cious to his child, in stirring up my spirit to seek Riin, 
and repaid the grace He gave, by granting, in answer to 
prayer, such assurance of his love and help, as made me 
renew the exercise with courage and hope, when most 
ready to faint In studying the Scriptures, and the 
writings of holy men, to feed my classes, my own mind 
became nourished with the milk of the gospel I saw 
the glory and grace of Christ more clearly, and was the 
more firmly assured of the things which I had previously 
believed- Oh ! what a rich reward, and what encou- 
ragement to others, to use their talents in the service of 
God and his Church, for surely none could have greater 
discouragements in making the attempt than I expe- 
rienced/' 

The monthly class of young ladies cost her more 
anxiety, in consequence of their superior training and 
advantages, and the greater backwardness which edu- 
cated persons generally feel to reveal their religious im- 
pressions. She thus writes to a friend who proposed a 
certain day and hour for private prayer, in which they 
might each engage in their separate rooms; for a blessing 
on her labours in the class. ^' I should rejoice to meet 
you at our Father's throne on Saturday evening, if that 
time will suit you. I meet my beloved mother and 
others most dear to me at other times, and that is the 
time I devote to prayer for my dear class. I never suf- 
fered from despondency in any duty, as I did in my new 
class on Tuesday. I felt it a complete failure, and I 
believe the dear young people must have felt so too. 
But I know Ood can bless the attempt, and sometimes 



56 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEEMAN. 

I feel almost certain that he will Oh, my dear friend, 
do wrestle for me with God, that it may prove a great 
blessing. I wimt encouragement in it, and am ashamed 
of my own fears." Her fears were removed, and similar 
results followed as in her Sabbath class. . 

The following letter, written at the close of the same 
year as the former, shows that God granted her heart's 
desire, and that few remained long under her tuition 
who were not induced to leave the world and join them- 
selves to the Lord, and in some way serve his church 
by their labours. 

" My veey dear Fbiend, 

" I return you the letter with many thanks, and re-: 
gret that a violent cold prevents, me from doing so per- 
sonally. I am. much interested in its contents, and I 
think it should excite us to prayer for that reviving 
influence which is promised. I am sometimes disposed 
^0 be much discouraged that no more fruit is produced 
in my class ; but God invariably sends me some cheer- 
ing news to disperse my gloom, and stimulate me tQ 
more simplicity in my faith and dependence on him. 

" I was in one of my anxious moods yesterday, when 
the good American, Mr. Dawes, consented to take my 
class ; he enquired how many had decided for Christ ;. 
I told him it was my distress that very day, to think 
that scarcely more than half a dozen, out of the thirty-: 
eight, were members of the church, My dear husband 
doubted my statement, and we began to reckon, when, 
to my joy, I found that half the number at least are mem-: 



ICEHOIB OF MBS. SHEEMAN. 57 

bers, and all but one have joined since they entered it. 
This is great cause for gratitude, and I have thought, if 
we imitated the apostle in forgetting the things which 
are behind, and reaching forth to those which are before, 
how much wiser we should be ; we must look at what 
God has done, instead of looking at our own weakness, 
and grumbling. Oh ! what an honour it is to be per- 
mitted to tell of a Saviour's love ; how much more to 
have that love in our own hearts, where enmity once 
reigned !. and then to have the sanction of heaven in 
our feeble efforts, by the Spirit's influences accompany- 
ing them, and rendering them successfcd ; this is happi- 
ness indeed. What must heaven be, where we shall see 
Him of whom we love to tell, and where none but happy 
spirits can be. May we be there, and be permitted to 
have a long train of ^ children' given to us, and cast 
our crowns at the feet of Him, ' who hath loved us, 
and washed us from our sins in his own blood/ May 
we swell the fiill choir of glorified ones in the song of 
Moses and the Lamb.' 

" Ever yours in the best bonds, 

" M. Sherman." 

The success did not, however, wholly arise from oral 
instruction ; her letters were also a means of great use- 
fulness. Most of the young persons had mementos of 
her care for their souls in her own handwriting, and in 
not a few instances, their decision was attributed to these 
utterances of her heart. The following specimens out of 
a very large number will be read with great interest 

D 3 



58 MEMOIR Oi: MAS. SHERMAN; 

The first is to a young friend who had previously been 
deprived of her mother by death, and had now lost her 
eldest sister. 

** Clay nm, Enfield, October 25ih, 1839. 

" My dear young Friend, 

" The intelligence of your dear sister's removal did 
not reach me till half-an-hour before the post left 
Enfield, or I should have written a few lines to you 
immediately, to express my sympathy with you in your 
very deep affiction. I think I may truly say, I sym- 
pathise with you, for when but a few years older than 
yourself, I was called to part with an only sister — one 
most tenderly beloved, and for whose superior piety 
and judgment I had the greatest reverence — we were, 
indeed, like Jonathan and David, and I thought it 
impossible to live without her. I can, therefore, feel 
for you, my beloved young friend in the loss of her, who 
in some degree filled the place of your lamented mother, 
and whose counsel and care you can receive no more. But 
this is the dark-side of the painful dispensation : there 
is a bright and glorious side, and happy, indeed, shall I 
be, if we can sympathise with each other there. When 
my own Mary was taken from me, heaven, as the dwell- 
ing-place of Ood, had no attractions for me ; my heart 
was unrenewed and unhumbled for sin ; but when that 
heaven was the abode of her happy spirit, my thoughts 
were constantly there, and I longed to be with her — 
earth had lost its great attraction — ^nothing could fill 
the dreadful blank which her removal occasioned. It 



MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAK. 59 

pleased God, at last> to convince me that it was sin 
which made me so desolate, and that place in my heart He 
could more than fill : this led me to seek that pardon 
which alone could unite me to Jesus, and that ^ holiness 
without which no man can see the Lord ;' and my 
earnest prayer was, that I might prove my love to her, 
not by fruitless repining at my loss, but by following in 
her steps, by consecrating myself wholly to the service of 
Him whom she had loved and humbly sought to glorify. 
" I would not thus write about myself, dear, but to 
direct you to the same Source of comfort. To our finite 
minds it may seem mysterious that one so beloved and 
useful should be taken from us in early youth ; but 
remember how little we know what God designs by His 
providences. His thoughts are not our thoughts, nor 
his ways our ways, happily for us : if ever we reach 
yonder happy world, we shall understand why these 
painful dispensations were permitted ; till then, ever 
bear in^ mind that * God is love,' not only when He 
grants us that which delights us, but when He sends 
deep affliction, bereavement and pain : and God designs 
your good, and seeks your happiness in this trial : — do 
not lose the blessing. There is one tie less to earth ; 
think of that pure world, where her happy spirit is now 
rejoicing in her Saviour's love : that Saviour's precious 
blood purchased heaven for her, and that blood and that 
heaven He offers to you. Remember, dear, this world 
is but the passage to that bright world ; keep that in 
sight, and beware of any thing that may shade it from 
your view — sin only can do this — ^this separates the 



60 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAIT. 

soul from God. Oh ! never rest until sin is pardoned 
through that precious ' blood which cleanseth from all 
sin/ and that righteousness which justifies the * sinner 
that believes in Jesus.' Pant after holiness, that you. 
may be fitted for that world where ' nothing can enter 
that defileth.' Take up your cross and follow Jesus : 
be satisfied with nothing short of the entire consecration 
of yourself to Him, who invited you to ' come unto 
Him that you may have life/ Think of the joy that 
will fill heaven, and the souls of your dear sainted mother 
and sister, to bear the tidings through some angelic 

messenger, that A had 'chosen that good part 

that shall never be taken from her/ And would there 
not be joy on earth too ? think of the tender heart of 
your dear bereaved father ; how would his grief be for- 
gotten in the joy of witnessing your decision for Christ- 
And would not my heart rejoice to receive the sweet 
answer to many a prayer in your conversion to Jesus ? 
Be much in prayer, dear ; you have need of much wis- 
dom in your doubly responsible situation ; seek it as a 
promised, as well as a desired blessing, and never lean to 
your own understanding. You have to comfort your 
beloved father's heart— to study his happiness — ^to strive 
to lessen his anxieties in every way — and, as far as pos- 
sible, to fill the places of those who are gone. Let love 
be your motto in every thing — strive to make every one 
happier for your presence ; this will draw your mind 
away from your individual sorrow, and stimulate you to 
extract advantages from this trial. 

*' It is really presumption in me to utter a word of 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAK. ^1 

advice to one so highly privileged aa you ; but as one of 
the members of my little humble Bible class, I feel a 
double interest in you, and my heartfelt prayer for you 
has long been, that you might ^ be blest and made a 
blessing/ Mamma and papa, (whom you know only 
by name,) desire me to present to you and your dear 
papa, their kind regards and sympathy. Dear Selina 
feels much for you, and, were she here, would unite 
in aflfectionate love with, 

" My dear young friend, 

*' Yours most sincerely, 

" M. Sherman.^' 

The following extract discovers her jealousy over their 
piety, and her anxiety that it should be of the most 
exalted kind. 

*' Surrey Parsonage, October 4th, 1839. 

" My dear youncI Friend, 
"I often look at you and your dear sister with 
intense interest, and long to know your progress in your 
heavenly way ; for the truth and soundness of our 
profession of devotedness to Christ are tested by our 
' growth in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord 
and Saviour Jesus Christ.' Is this the case with my 
dear young friend? Is your spirit more meek and 
humble, and self-denying, and Christ-like? Are you 
habitually ' striving against sin ? ' for remember, * He 
that is bom of God cannot sin :/ it must be a struggle, 
therefore, with the old nature, till it is entirely brotight, 



62 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAN: 

into captivity, even every thought to the obedience of 
Ghnst. Do you shrink at the spirituality and extent 
of the law of God, or wish it less strict, and that it 
would allow more conformity to the world ? or do you 
say with David, * Oh ! how love I thy law, it is my 
meditation all the day V How important is this self- 
scrutiny ! if we deceive ourselves in the affairs of the 
soul, the delusion may be fatal If we are * bom again,' 
our will agrees with the will of God : what He com- 
mands, it is our delight to fulfil : let us ask ourselves, 
have we thus the spirit of Christ, without which we 
are none of his ? I long for all the dear young people 
of my class to be patterns of holiness and devotedness ; 
separated from the world both in its pleasures and spirit ; 
but especially for those, who by their public profession of 
Christ, have the eyes of the world gazing at them, and 
have the vows of God upon them. Be much in prayer, 
in communion with God and your own heart, and in the 
prayerful study of your Bible, and make Christ your 
model for imitation, and you will * grow in grace.' Pardon 
these few hasty thoughts from the heart of, my dear 
young friend, 

" Yours most sincerely and affectionately, 

" M. Sherman." 

The next is to one who had expressed her wish to 
become a teacher in the Surrey Chapel Sunday Schools. 

" My dear YoxjNa Friend, 
" I saw Mr. H. yesterday, and named your w^i^h to be- 



HEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 63 

come a teacher ; he says at present he has not a vacancy 
for a junior teacher, but he will remember you as a can* 
didate ; this ytiII prevent the necessity of your leaving 
the dass on Sunday. Should we be spared to the day 
when the privilege of Sunday School teaching shall be 
yours, I may probably be able to receive you into the 
other class ; at present, you had better remain as you are. 
But though this means of usefulness is for a time post- 
poned, I hope it will not prevent your usefulness in some 
other way. We are bom to be useful. God is always 
dispensing happiness around this great universe which He 
has created ; and as man was created in the Divine like- 
ness, he is to do likewise. The effect of sin is to destroy 
6od''s image in the soul, and, consequently, its useful- 
ness : when, by the work of redemption by Christ, and 
the r^enerating influence of the Holy Spirit, that image 
b^ns to be restored, then we begin to be useful, and to 
seek the glory of God, and the promotion of His cause, 
as our chief delight. Be sure, my dear child, that this 
work of the Spirit is wrought in you. Do not mistake 
a preference for good things, for conversion to God ; 
education may effect the one, but the Spirit of God 
must perform the other. Seek that this Spirit may 
be abundantly bestowed on you, and improve the in- 
terval before you join the church of Christ in self-ex- 
amination — ^whether your character will bear the Scrip-? 
tural test, and in seeking to know more of Christ and 
his salvation, strive to prepare yourself, by the prayer- 
ful and diligent study of your Bible, to become a valu- 



64 UEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAF. 

able Sabbath School teacher. May God sweetly encourage 
and sanctify you, is the earnest prayer of 

" Your very sincere friend, 

"M. Shbbman/' 

*< Surrey Parsonage, May %tk, 1841." 

A young lady had left her class for a situation in a 
school in the country, but distance or separation did not 
diminish the interest her teacher felt in her decision for 
Christ, as the following precious epistle to her will 
declare. 

" Clay Hill, Enfield, July \ti, 1841. 

"My deab young Fbiend, 
" I have often had you in my thoughts since you left 
London, and have very often wished to write to you, to 
prove that I still feel a deep interest in you, and by no 
means less so, now that you are out of sight. We are 
very apt to be too dependent on our senses, and to foi^t 
that which is unassociated with them. What we seldom 
hear, the friends we seldom see, and the sweets we 
seldom taste, are easily forgotten, unless there be some- 
thing more than usually interesting in them, in our 
estimation. This is the reason that you, dear, whom I 
have not seen for some months, and whom I have seldom 
talked with at all, are yet remembered by me with deep 
Interest. I feel that you have a precious soul, capable 
of enjoying God, and powers of mind for which you are 
responsible ; they were created for God's glory, and 



:mm 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAKt 65 

yrhen sin directed them to dishonour and displease Him, 
He gave up his well-beloved Soa to be your substitute, 
that a way might be opened for your restoration to 
the divine favour, by his obedience and atonement; 
and to .the divine likeness, by the purchase of the 
Holy Spirit to sanctify your souL I believe yoji often 
desire that the . blessings which Jesus has thus pro- 
cured for those who will receive them, were yours ; but 
I want you to come to a point, and resolve that you will 
not rest until you are a child of God. If there could be 
a middle state, in which you might be safe, still I could 
not be happy for you to remain there. I want you 
to share the very highest enjoyments .of heaven, to be 
one of the brightest stars in glory, and to have ^ an 
abundant entrance ministered to you into the ever- 
lasting kingdom." of Christ : and I could never be con-, 
tented for any one just to enter heaven — just to be safe, 
from hell — ^but if you are not the friend of God, you are. 
his enemy — ^if you are not his child, you are Satan's,. 
It seems very difficult to believe that an amiable cha-^ 
racter can be the enemy of any, but especially of God ^ 
but Christ himself says, 'He that is not with me is^ 
against me." So if you are wavering, and undecided for 
Him, you are among his enemies i Awful thought ! 
My beloved child, do not hesitate another moment, but, 
in the retirement of your closet, seek that grace which 
shall enable you to give up your whole heart to Christ,, 
and resolve in his strength that you will be His obedient 
child ; that you will rest your whole salvation on his 
merits alone, and strive to be what He would have you.. 



66 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

Let the desire to please Him be your raling motive in 
every thought, word, and deed. In all your studies, 
pursue them with the view to make you a more valuable 
servant of Christ ; and to fit you to dwell with Him in 
glory, and to enable you to bring others to glory. Make 
the Bible your constant, prayerful study ; let it be 
' hid ' in your heart that you ' sin not against ' Him ; 
and when tempted to sin, remember that you will grieve 
his Holy Spirit if you do, and most ungratefully requite 
His boundless love to you. 

" Oh ! my dear child, if we could view our hearts as 
God sees them, how should we loathe ourselves, and 
blush that He should behold in us such deformity ; but 
it is only when we see, by faith, the agonies which the 
Son of God has endured for us, to procure our deliver- 
ance from the curse, and power, and love of sin, that we 
are led to mourn over it as that abominable thing which 
God hates, and to repent in tears of bitter sorrow ; this, 
the Spirit of God alone can show us. For this Spirit 
pray continually, until the promise is fulfilled, and you 
are made indeed a child of God ; and, if spared to return 
to school, try to be a little missionary there, and to 
increase the number of those happy beings who choose 
the pleasant path of wisdom, ' Her ways are ways of plea- 
santness, and all her paths are peace/ Every effort for 
the good of others will bring blessings to yourself. 
Be much in prayer, and do not yield to the difiSiculties 
which school may present. Keep in mind the privilege 
as well as the necessity of prayer, and try to persuade 
your companions to ^the exercise ; so you will be aiding 



^fgrnm 



M£MOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 67 

to bring the answer to your own petition, * Thy kingdom 
come." We must all unite our energies to make others 
happy, and happiness is found only in obedience to the 
happy commands of our Father in heaven. Give joy 
in heaven and on earth, by the consecration of your- 
self wholly to his service, and believe me, 

" Your very sincere and affectionate friend, 
" Martha Sherman." 

. Sometimes, to display God's sovereignty and grace, 
one is selected and brought to himself, from a family 
wholly consisting of worldly minds, who discourage, if 
they do not persecute and oppose. Her judicious advice 
to one of the class in such circumstances, will commend 
itself to every pious mind, and is worthy of special atten* 
tion from any who are similarly placed. 

" My dear TOUNa Friend, 
" My time has been much engaged since I have been 
here, or I should have written a few lines to you before 
this ; but I have not forgotten you ; indeed, you have 
been much in my thoughts. It is very difficult to exhibit 
the Christian character in any situation, surrounded and 
beset with snares as we are, from evil hearts of sin and 
unbelief within, and the world and Satan without, 
even when all around us delight in our decision for 
Christ. But what must it be to maintain it amidst 
opposition and ridicule ? and what must be the anguish 
of that mind, which witnesses the opposition in hearts 
most tenderly beloved, and from which it feels, there 



08 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

must be eternal separation, unless a miracle of grace 
interfere, I deeply feel for you on this account, but He 
who placed you as a solitary Christian in your family, 
knows what a large measure of grace you need ; * His 
strength is perfected in weakness," and He can make 
all grace to abound toward you. Tour situation is one 
that demands much watchfulness and prayer ; your emi- 
nent consistency of Christian character will do far more 
to convince the gainsayers, than a thousand exhorta- 
tions ; not that I would advise you to neglect to warn 
them, for they can scarcdy believe you think them 
in danger of eternal misery, if you make no visible 
eflFort to save them. . But the judicious prayerful 
effort of a Christian, vhose character stands out from 
those around her, for purity %,ni benevolence of prin* 
ciple, self-denial for the glory of God, and the good of 
others, can scarcely fail of removing prejudice, and pro- 
ducing a feeling in favour of religion itself; which is at 
least one impediment removed, and so far a preparation 
for their receiving the gospel. I am always more 
anxious for the development of eminent piety in those 
who are situated as you are, than in others, on this 
account ; though I feel assured that what we call emi- 
nent piety, is only what piety ought in every instance 
to be, a^nd I strongly question the genuineness of that 
piety, which is satisfied with any thing short of the per- 
fect likeness of Christ. Though we know we shall never 
be without sin, consequently, never perfectly like Christ, 
until we reach heaven, where, indeed, we shall be like 
Him, ' for we shall see him as he is ;' yet our aim must 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAlT. 69 

be there ; we must Tiave some pattern for imitation, and 
none but a perfect one will avail : the most exalted 
Christian is defiled with sin, even in his best estate, 
therefore, he will not do for a pattern : no, we must press 
toward the mark, and lay aside every impediment to 
our progress, ' looking unto Jesus/ Keep your eye there, 
my dear fiiend, and never submit to lower motives or 
principles than those which actuated the Son of Ood ; 
there is much to chill and damp your piety and zeal, 
when none sympathises with you, but let this drive 
you nearer to the Sun of Righteousness, to gather faith, 
and love, and vigour, and every needed grace from the 
rich treasury, which He has provided for all who apply 
to Him. It is in this way, trials prove blessings — by 
driving us to Christ. When the creature-stream failsf 
we are driven to the Fountain, which can never be ex- 
hausted. Keep close there, make your Bible your con- 
stant prayerfal study. Seek to have your views of the 
truth, and of the plan of salvation very clear ; frequently 
study the grand doctrines of the gospel, and do not 
depend on the knowledge you have of them ; an error 
here would be fatal ; and on incorrect views, inconsistent 
conduct is continually based. There must be growth 
' in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ,' as well as 
' in grace,' and let that knowledge be drawn imme- 
diately from the well-spring — the Bible. Search every 
word, with prayer for that Spirit which alone can truly 
enlighten, and ' let your light so shine before men that 
they may see your good works, and glorify your Father 
which is in heaven.' Give God no rest, until every 



70 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

member of your family is converted to Christ. Why 
were you selected to be a recipient of his grace ? Not for 
your own merits ; then it must be of his free and sove- 
reign grace, and you are bound to communicate to others, 
what has been so freely granted to you. Home is your 
little garden, which you must diligently cultivate ; you 
must seek to remove all the stones, which would check 
the progress of vegetation, all the impediments to the 
existence of piety ; perhaps, there may be many be^ 
sides those in the heart, which are outward, in family 
arrangements, which your influence may be able to re- 
move. If your piety is that which they cannot but 
approve, you have more influence on that account, and 
your wishes would probably be law to them. This is 
only the first step in the cultivation of your garden ; you 
have to dig, to sow, to plant, to water, and to do every 
thing which the gardener who cares for his garden will 
attempt. And oh ! what weeds you have to destroy ; 
seek, my dear friend, that the moral desert around you 
may become as ' the garden of the Lord, that He may 
be glorified.** I should be very glad to hear from you. 
" Believe me, your very sincere, and afi*ectionate friend, 

" Martha Sherman." 

July, 1841. 

The inconsiderateness of friends, both young and old, 
requesting those filling important stations, and whose 
time is much occupied with paramount duties, to write 
to them at special seasons of their history, is judiciously 
treated and improved in the following extract : — 



MEMOIR OF MES. SHERMA». 71 

** Surrey Parsonage, Augutt lOth^ 1841. 

"My dear Friend, 
" I canBot refuse your request to give you a line of 
remembrance on, not your birth-day, but the day after. 
My dear friend must remember, that such a step is a 
precedent which might occasion not a little difficulty. 
Many young friends ask for a letter on their birth-day ; 
and if I could transmit my wishes to paper, by a magic 
touch, I would never refuse ; but if one has her request 
granted, all have a claim ; and then, tell me, how can I 
meet such a demand from so many kind hearts, how- 
ever quickly I may scrawl : for the quantity of writing 
which is unavoidable, takes up so much time, that, con* 
trary to my approval, I am obliged to scrawL The 
time which such an additional correspondence would 
occupy, would require the neglect of many important 
duties, therefore, I write not on your birth-day, that 
the circumstance of writing to you, may not be used as 
an argument with others. But why does my dear friend 
ask me to write to her ? You have not to be urged to 
decision, on the return of the day which leads most 
young people to think a little seriously. Your heart 
was surrendered to Him who claims it, years before mine, 
and your Christian progress must, therefore, have so far 
outstripped mine, that I am too distant from you, to 
urge you onward ; unless, as you run your race, you occa- 
sionally look back in humility and self-abasement at the 
path you have trodden, and mark the zig-zag footmarks, 
which tell you how often you would have gone aside, but 



72 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

for Him who directed and upheld you ; and while thus 
reviewing the past, you hear a voice crying to you, ' Go 
forward :' — ' Press toward the mark for the prize of the 
high calling of God in Christ Jesus/ — ' Lay aside 
every weight, and the sin which doth so easily heset you, 
and run with patience the race that is set before you, 
looking unto Jesus/ Though far behind you, my cry, 
for myself, and for others, is, * Lord urge us on ;' and, 
perhaps, you may overhear that cry. These are days 
which call for more than ordinary devotedness to Christ. 
The day is hastening, when the Christian is to be sifted, 
and ' he that endureth to the end shall be saved.' 
That day will probably introduce the millennial glory, 
for which we must all labour ; when every heart shall 
yield to ' Him whose right it is to reign.' Then the 
despised, rejected Jew shall be 'brought in with the 
fulness of the Gentiles,' and the blessing, according to 
His promise, be given to him that favours his Israel, 
' Blessed is he that blesseth thee/ If God still loves 
his ancient people^ shall not we love them too, and 
strive after the time when the curse shall be removed, 
and ' Israel shall turn to the Lord ?' My heart is ill 
at ease on their account. I long to contribute towards 
the hastening of their return to the Lord, but the party 
who prominently take up their cause, is so exclusive, 
that little is left but prayer. I think I can respond 
to the Apostle's language, ' My heart's desire and 
pi-ayer for Israel is, that they might be saved.' How 
glorious shall that 'day' be, when the veil shall be 
taken away, and thousands be bom unto God. May I 



MEMOIB OP MRS. SHEBMAN. 73 

urge you to more perseveriDg prayer on their behalf : 
you will reap the benefit as well as they. My heart 
rejoices in your usefolness, my dear friend ; and I pray 
that you ' may abound therein more and more/ May 
your birthdays be many, many times renewed, and each 
one witness increafiing deyotedness to our blessed Ee- 
deemer, and more of his likeness too : more humility and 
spirituality of mind, with more entire consecration to 
his service. 

" Forgive this hurried, ill-written epistle, which bears 
with it, though unexpressed, the fondest wishes of, 
**My dear friend, 
" Yours very aflFectionately, 

" Mabtha Sherman/' 

It was very difficult to persuade her at- any time that 
her labours had been useful, or could produce fruit to 
God ; but when the evidence was complete and irre- 
sistible her heart overflowed with angelic joy. To one 
of her class, she thus utters it, and shows that we do not 
answer the end of our existence, if our object and eflfort 
be not to save and bless our race. 

« Clay Hill, Enfield, June 10«A, 1841. 
" Mt VEBY DBABr FbIEND, 

" If my inclinations were the guides of my conduct, 
how diflferent would that conduct be from what it is ! In 
some things, I fear, they would lead me to much evil, 
though with an intention to do good : and in others, much 
benefit might result, and much pleasure be communi* 

E 



74 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEEMAN. 

cated by inclination having its way. My inclination 
told me to write to you as soon as I reached Enfield, 
and its sweet retirement; but my time is scarcely at 
my own disposal, and I feel that I must snatch oppor^ 
tunities like my sweet friend. Stolen moments often 
aflford us the richest enjoyments, and we appreciate 
most, that which has cost us some little difficulty to 
obtain, or to accomplish ; and I do not think you will 
spurn the broken unconnected effusion of a heart that 
dearly loves you, because it does not bear the marks of 
study and arrangement. Friendship prizes intentions, 
and Christian friendship never suspects : and, I trust, 
there is a sacred bond uniting our hearts to each other, 
though our mutual circumstances prevent much exhibi- 
tion of it. The love which springs from the Cross, 
unites every heart that has laid its burthen beneath it ; 
the blood-sprinkled soul recognises its fellow, and even 
Christian sympathy must unite them ; but there is a 
still sweeter endearment when minds have been asso* 
ciated as ours ; you, as a lamb in the flock, over which 
my dear husband is the under-shepherd, and both of us 
as mingling our efforts to understand the Sacred Page. 
What joy and gratitude did you excite in my oft-dis- 
couraged heart, by telling me that my humble efforts 
had in any degree assisted you with your charge. How 
often does God 'lead the blind by a way they know not.' 
I have ever felt that if good in any form arose from these 
feeble attempts, the praise must be entirely his, whose 
blessing can give efficacy to the weakest instrumentality. 
The anxiety I have endured is amply repaid, if you are 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SnEBMAN. 75 

assisted in your explanation of the Sacred Volnme, and I 
trust I shall ' go forward/ with more simplicity of faith 
and dependence on that influence which must follow, as 
well as dictate these exercises. It may be that a soul 
may be saved one day by this instrumentality ! I feel 
increasingly that we live only as we answer the design for 
which ' man became a living soul.' ' I have created 
him for my glory f and if the end we have in view, 
and the objects we pursue are beneath this, we do not 
answer the end of our being — we had better never 
have been bom. The soul was formed with the capa- 
bility to enjoy God, and to glorify Him, and though it 
has sunk deep and low in degradation from its noble 
original, yet so much remains, that the soul refuses 
satisfaction with anything but Himself — at first it seeks 
it everywhere rather than there — but when drawn there 
by the attractions of the Cross, oh ! how full its satis- 
faction, how firm its ground of hope and rejoicing ! And 
when the love of Christ has drawn us to Himself, what 
is so sweet, and so binding on us, as to draw other 
minds to the right source of enjoyment — peace with God, 
and reconciliation to Him 'through the blood of the 
Lamb." While I miss you much, I cannot but rejoice 
in the double privileges you enjoy, of continually ad- 
vancing in mental cultivation and spiritual knowledge 
under the instrumentality of your invaluable friend — 
and of imparting as continually to others, that you may 
win and direct them to Jesus. How prone the mind is 
to depend on its privileges, and how God sometimes 
deprives us of them for a season ; to bring us back to de- 

£ 2 



76 MEMOIB OF MkS. SHEBMAK. 

pendence upon Him. We do not need prayer less because 
of our augmented privileges, but far more; responsibility 
increases with every such additional favour, and how. 
can we meet that in our own strength ? No, our neces- 
sities must always be supplied from his fulness, and our 
opportunities profit us, only as they draw us nearer to 
Him. So may you, dear, find it, and as you receive, 
put out to interest ; let every fresh talent yield another 
at least, — as you learn, apply and practise, — this will be 
the best proof of gratitude to your Instructor, and to 
Him who gave him to you. We are bound for heaven, 
and we must take with us every creature whom we can 
reach, nor must we rest while one, to whom our influ- 
ence extends, is bound to a different clime. May the 
thought of the value of an immortal soul, and the 
shortness of time, stimulate us to watchfulness and 
prayer, that we may leave no effort untried, to win sin- 
ners to Christ ; may we be so sanctified by the indwell- 
ing of the Spirit of God, that no stumbling-block may 
exist in us ; but may our Christian character be so emi- 
nently like Christ, that we may glorify and exalt Him 
who made us, and remoulded us, after that likeness. 

"I love appointments at the Throne of grace: half-past 
eight is my time for evening retirement when here, and 
when evening engagements do not interpose, at Surrey too. 
Often there, however, I am compelled to defer the sacred 
hour of devotion till after supper ; but it is always pain- 
ful to me. I hope, however, to meet my dear friend 
in spirit then, where we may pour out our souls before 
Him ; and where our poor prayers may find acceptance 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHBBMAIT. 77 

through the merits of our Great Intercessor, who * ever 
liveth to make intercession for ns/ We are expelled 
from Surrey for a season, and have found a very agree- 
able dwelling at Clay Hill ; but I feel out of my ele- 
ment, and long to return. I trust the retirement of 
this sweet place will be beneficial both to my dearest 
husband and myself. Pray much for us, dear, that the 
beloved flock may be benefited by our tarrying here. I 
have a little oratory in the garden, to which I love to 
retire, there I find a mercy-seat ; and it is sweet to 
' come boldly,' there. I hope every cloud has long 
since been dispersed from your mind, and that your 
faith can cleave to Christ. 

^* Believe me, my sweet friend, 
*^ Ever yours most affectionately, 

" MabtAa Sherman." 

The school-room adjoining Surrey Chapel, in which 
the first Sunday School, in London, was established by 
Mr. Hill, had long been found inconveniently small. 
More children than could be accommodated were willing 
to receive instruction on the Sabbath, and the congre- 
gation required more commodious rooms for its devo- 
tional meetings, and for carrying on with effect its 
various institutions. In the year 1840, the sum of 
<£^3500. was expended in general repairs and improve- 
ments of the Chapel, and in erecting suitable school and 
class rooms. In the effort to raise this large sum, Mrs. 
Sherman took the deepest interest. She arranged and 
superintended a sale of useful and fancy work, on the 



78 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

opening day. Assisted b; a committee of ladies, it was 
conducted with spirit and piety, and became a focns of 
love and liberality. The following note, one of many 
she wrote for this occasion, will show how wisely and 
graciously she made temporal transactions vehicles of 
religious instruction : — 

•" February 2:!th, 1841. 

" My dear young Friend, 

'^ Will you share in the pleasures and labours of our 
^anticipated sale, and oblige me by taking a stall with a 
companion of your own selection— /emafe, of course ? 
Will you also strive to gain purchasers by persuading 
every one to visit us and buy ? Will you let me know 
your arrangements before next Friday, as I wish to pre- 
sent a correct list to the Committee, of the ladies who 
sell. 

" There is one thing which God tells us to buy, and 
never to sell, * Buy the truth, and sell it not.' If you 
part with it, nothing can be its equivalent. Secure 
that, whatever you lose, and may that truth be so ^ hid' 
in your heart, that you ^may not sin against' Him, 
who gave it. May you habitually find the Saviour's 
prayer answered, ' Sanctify them through thy truth, 
thy word is truth.' Then will every energy of your 
mind be exerted in the service of your Ood, and it shall 
be your joy to see many brought to Him through your 
instrumentality. These are days which call for eminent 
piety and eminent usefulness — ^indeed, they usually are 
combined. May they be so in your experience, and 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 79 

your daily conduct and spirit prove, that yon live to Him 
* who loved you, and gave himself for you/ " 

By the exertions of herself, and of those associated 
with her, above <£400. were raised at this sale, and they 
had the pleasure of seeing the noble building fully and 
almost daily occupied, and the entire amount of cost for 
its construction, raised and paid within twelve months. 



CHAPTER V. 

FORMATION OF MATERNAL ASSOCIATIONS, AND BIRTH 
OP A DAUGHTER. 

Simultaneously with the formation of her Sabbath 
Class, Mrs. Sherman commenced a Maternal Associa- 
tion, composed of mothers, whose education, piety, and 
station, gave them influence in the church and congre- 
gation. As these societies are much misunderstood, the 
following paper, drawn up, it is presumed, by Mrs. 
Sherman, will show their object, and the duties of the 
members. 

constitution of the SURREY CHAPEL MATERNAL 
ASSOCIATION, ADOPTED JANUARY 2nD, 1837. 

" Deeply impressed with the great importance of bring- 
ing up our children in the nurture and admonition of 
the Lord, we agree to associate for the purpose of devis- 
ing and adopting such measures, as may be best calcu- 
lated to assist us in the right performance of this duty. 

" With a view to this object, we engage to observe 
the following rules : — 

^^ 1. This Association shall meet on the Monday suc- 
ceeding the sacrament, at 12 o'clock. 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 81 

^* 2. Every meeting shall be opened and closed with 
prayer. 

" 3. The time allotted for our meetings shall be spent 
in reading such works as relate to the great object for 
which we are associated, in conversation and prayer for 
a divine blessing on our eflForts for the immediate con- 
version of our children, and that God would glorify 
himself by rendering them eminently useful in his 
church, 

" 4. At the half-yearly meetings on the second Mon- 
day in January and July, the members shall be allowed 
to bring to the place of meeting, such of their children 
as they shall deem proper. At these meetings the exer- 
cises shall be of such a nature as may be best calculated, 
by the aid of the Holy Spirit, to instruct the minds and 
impress the feelings of the children that attend. 

" 5, Every member of this association shall consider 
herself as sacredly bound to pray daily for her children, 
and with them, if practicable, to accompany her prayers 
by reading the Scriptures, urging them to the duty of 
immediate repentance, and an unreserved consecration 
of themselves to the Lord. 

" 6. It shall be the indispensable duty of every mem- 
ber to qualify herself by prayer, by reading, and by all 
other appropriate means, for performing the arduous 
duties of a Christian mother, and to suggest to her 
sister-members, such hints as her own experience may 
furnish, or circumstances render necessary. 

" 7. Every member shall consider herself obligated by 
her baptismal covenant, in behalf of her children prayer- 

E 3 



82 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAK. 

fully and perseveringly to restrain them from erery 
course that would naturally lead to pride, vanity, or 
worldly-mindedness ; and shall look upon herself as 
renewing this covenant at every meeting of the asso- 
ciation. 

" 8. When any member is removed by death, it 'shall 
be the duty of the association to pay as particular 
attention to her children, in furnishing them with reli- 
gious books, bringing them to the quarterly meetings, 
&c., as circumstances may render proper. 

" 9. A superintendent shall be appointed by the asso- 
ciation to take a general supervision of its concerns, and 
to preside at the monthly meetings ; also a secretary, 
whose duty shall be to keep the minutes, and a register 
of the names of the mothers and their children ; to 
make such selections for reading, and bring forward such 
subjects for conversation, as may be best calculated to 
excite the members to a faithful discharge of their 
arduous duties, and at each meeting to read aloud the 
record of the preceding one. 

**10. The day of the half-yearly meeting shall be 
spent in prayer by the mothers on their own account, 
and in behalf of the children of the association. 

** ll. Any article or articles of this constitution, may 
be amended by a majority of the members present at 
any annual meeting. 

"12. Any mother who is prepared to subscribe to 
these articles, may become a member, by sending her 
name, and those of all her children, to the recording 
secretary, and so continue until she unites with some 



MEMOm OF HBS. SHEBMAN. 83 

other association, or withdraws her name from the 
register ; and a member may be allowed to introduce a 
friend, who is a mother, to the meetings. 

" It is recommended to every member to spend the 
anniversary of the birth of each of her children in fast- 
ing and prayer, with that child. May He who giveth 
liberally and upbraideth not, ever preside in our meet- 
ings, and grant unto each of us a teachable, aflFectionate, 
and humble temper, that no root of bitterness spring up 
to prevent our improvement, or interrupt our devotions. 
* The promise is to us and our children.' — Acts ii, 39. 
We have publicly given up our children to God ; his 
Holy Name has been pronounced over them ; let us 
see to it, that we do not cause this sacred name to be 
treated with contempt. May Christ put his own Spirit 
within us, so that our children may never have occasion 
to say, ' What do ye more than others V It is recom- 
mended also, that those under our care, and in our 
employment, be particularly remembered at the Throne 
of Grace, at our meetings and in our closets."' 

An event of peculiar interest to herself and family 
took place in June, 1838 — she became a mother. Be- 
sides those to whom she had so faithfully and lovingly 
sustained the maternal relation, she had now a child of 
her own, and with it all those peculiar feelings and cares 
which an infant brings ; a.nd if maternal associations 
appeared to have great advantage before, they would not 
be lessened when she could present among her coadjutors 
her own o£&pring, as an offering to the Lord. 



84 MBMOIB OF MBS. SHIBMAS. 

Every one might 'suppose that pious mothers would 
instantly respond to such a meeting as that proposed, 
and that in a large church, the difficulty would he to 
regulat-e the numbers willing to attend : no one would 
calculate on a refusal from any spiritual mind, where 
circumstances permitted the mother to enjoy the privi- 
lege ; but alas ! those who take the lead in inducing 
others to seek for spiritual blessings, will often be dis- 
appointed by the frivolous excuses which are made, and 
the difficulties which are invented. They must be con- 
tent to begin with few, and pray and strive till others, 
from shame or conviction, unite with them. 

The following letter, one out of many which she 
wrote at the same time, will exhibit the intense anxiety 
Mrs. Sherman felt, that all the mothers in the church, 
especially such as had influence, should in their meet- 
ings strive together for those spiritual blessings, and 
that domestic bliss, which would make their &milies 
the garden of the Lord. 

'* My dear Friend, 
** As I find our Secretary, Mrs. Field, will not have 
returned by Monday, I think it will be better to defer 
the anticipated prayer-meeting until after our Maternal 
Association. My heart is much cast down to see the 
want of interest generally, in our little meeting. If we 
desire our families to grow up to labour for Christ, we 
must avail ourselves of every means to secure the bless- 
ing while they are young : and while I supremely de- 
sire to see multitudes of these dear labourers teeming 



MEMOIR 0? MBS. SHERMAK. 85 

forth from the numerous families attending Surrey, I 
can scarcely expect the blessing, while so little concern 
is manifested for an association which has this special 
object in view. Will my dear friend aid me by her 
special remembrance of it in her closet, and by striving 
to bring mothers to the meeting. We must not remain 
in our present lifeless state ; there must be a reyival, 
and I look to the very few who really feel the import- 
ance of these meetings, to seek it from His influence, 
which first * moved on the face of the waters,' and 
brought light out of darkness. If the majority of 
mothers in the congregation think lightly of combined 
prayer, let us seek the blessing for them, nor rest,, till 
every family among us is consecrated to the work of the 
Lord, and rising up to fill our places in the church. I 
must see them thus consecrated, and therefore would 
implore that this blessing may be sought for all, by the 
praying few. Try to induce those to attend over whom 
you have any influence, and you may be thus bringing 
blessings on many, and glorifying your heavenly Father, 
while you rejoice the heart of 

*' Your afiectionate friend, 

*' Martha Sherman." 

*« Surrey Parsonage, September 23rd, 1838.'' 

The -difficulties, however, did not end in procuring 
the attendance of the mothers, for when they came, only 
a few could be prevailed upon to take part in the devo- 
tional exercises or conversation ; and thus the chief 
burden was often thrown on the mind of the president, 



86 MSMOIB OF MBS. SH£BMAN. 

already too heavily pressed with anxiety for thdr wel- 
fare. Let her speak for herself. 

" My vbby dbab Pbiend, 
, • . . " The address to children, which Mr. Sherman 
delivered this morning, from Luke ii. 51, was very 
simple and practical. May a hlessing indeed be given. 
Our last Maternal meeting disappointed me, as it was a 
subject requiring conversation ; few works appear to me 
to touch that very important and common sin, equivo- 
cation ; the ladies who usually speak (but few, alas !) 
were absent from London ; and, with immense persua- 
sion, Mrs. concluded, by presenting our case to 

God. When I commenced in prayer, I was so excited 
by the prospect of no assistance, that it was a very dis- 
tressing effort to myself, and must have been very un- 
profitable to others. However, Mrs. engaged with 

so much propriety, that I hope I was forgotten, though 
I trust the few blessings I sought, were not. I deeply 
lament the prevailing deficiency among us, and I really 

feel surprised that persons so capable as Mrs. , of 

whom there are, I doubt not, many, do not see it a duty 
to help me, in this important engagement. I feel 
assured that this gift is not mine ; but I think myself 
extremely culpable, that in the situation I occupy I do 
not try my best cheerfully, for example's sake. Ah ! 
when the love of Christ, and the glory and honour of 
God, shall fill the soul, it will not be thus ; and I am 
looking for this sweet evidence of growth in grace in 
myself, that whatever God brings before me as a duty, 



MEMOin OF MBS. SHERMAN. 87 

I shall undertake unhesitatingly, in dependence upon and 
confident expectation of, his promised assistance. Some* 
times I can do so ; still, nothing but an habitual acting 
of obedience to the first indications of my Father's will, 
can satisfy me. How delightful it is to anticipate a 
state of perfect holiness, when, like the angel flying with 
the everlasting gospel, we too shall haste to fulfil his 
sweet commands. I never muse on the happy spirits 
in heaven, winging their way on various commissions, 
without panting almost for emancipation from the fetters 
of clay, and their attendant, sin, and thinking when 
these are removed, I will try to exceed them in swiftness 
and in love ; — in the latter, surely the redeemed spirit 
must exceed ; — ^angels know comparatively little of the 
debt of love to Jesus. He preserved them in holiness ; 
but to have lost holiness, heaven, and happiness, and to 
have them restored ! Oh ! how overpowering to think 
of it ! But I must not trust myself on so dear a theme : 
we are one in heart here ; may we be one with Christ 
and each other in yon bright world 1 

" Believe me, my very dear friend, 
" Your ever aflfectionate and obliged friend, 

"M. Sherman.'' 

'' July I4ih, 1840.** 

Dear, indeed, to every member of that association, 
was the subject of this Memoir. Her gentle rule, and 
willingness to take the lowest place that all might be 
benefited — her graceful method of checking any thing 
irregular, — and her humble, afiectionate demeanour, gave 



88 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

her an influence which every heaxt felt, while her pre- 
paratory reading contributed to render the meetings pro- 
fitable to all. What blessings those associations have 
conferred, can never be known till the secrets of life are 
published ; but it must be acknowledged, that among all 
the schemes which the Christian church has proposed, 
in order to augment the piety of its members, none are 
more efficient than those which aim to sanctify and 
direct the influence of mothers, for on their temper and 
habits depend principally, the happiness of domestic life. 
The chief place in the training of children is necessarily 
given to the mother : how important then must it be to 
keep alive a sense of her responsibility, and to inform 
her mind on her duties, and the best method of perform- 
ing them, which mutual reading, experience and con- 
ference suggest. Ah ! * the day will declare,' that 
many families have been blessed with more comfort, and 
many children have had more prayer offered up for their 
eternal interests, and more care in their training, in 
consequence of these assemblies ! But if no results of 
the kind vere to ensue, the peace of the mother's own 
soul, and the mutual love and interest excited in meet- 
ing to pray for each other's families, and learn the way 
to make them more happy, would be an ample reward for 
thus employing an occasional hour. 

Mothers who have to gain their bread by labour, 
whose education has been deficient, or who have not been 
accustomed to attend worship, are a class which should 
excite our liveliest sympathy. The chief difficulty con- 
sists in getting them to take sufficient interest in a 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEEMAK. 89 

meeting, where nothing but their moral and spiritnal 
good is designed, and to attend it regularly. Yet per- 
severance will do wonders, and kindness is never ulti- 
mately thrown away upon the poor. They were not 
forgotten by Mrs. Sherman. She formed another asso- 
ciation, consisting of the poor mothers of the congrega- 
tion, and all whom they were disposed to bring with 
them ; this might be called her favourite institution, for 
which she prepared with great delight. While they 
treated their president with great respect and aflFec- 
tion, there was less reserve than etiquette imposes on 
a higher class of society, more freedom of conversation, 
and, consequently, more knowledge of the good eflfected. 
Often has she returned to her husband after meeting 
these poor mothers, with a countenance beaming with 
joy at the interesting communications they made, — 
the simple and fervent prayers they offered, — and the 
evident benefit their families derived from these conver- 
sational exercises. These good effects were soon visible 
among them ; some of the roughest specimens of human 
nature became gentle as lambs, and the energy of their 
disposition was directed to the noblest end of life ; others 
naturally timid were strengthened to serve God without 
fear — in several of their houses family prayer was 
adopted — ^and in not a few instances, the conversion of 
the attending mother followed. Oh, it would have 
cheered any spirit, to see her who went forth weeping, 
reaping her sheaves, receiving wages, and gathering 
fruit to life eternal. 

In consequence of the success attending the effort 



90 MEMOIB OF M&S. 8HEBMAN: 

among the poor at Surrey Chapel, she endeavoured tor 
interest several ladies to form and preside over associa- 
tions in connexion with each of the Sabbath Schools 
belonging to the congregation, and obtained their con- 
sent, at least, to make the eflFort. In order to awaken 
attention to the subject, she wrote an address, and en- 
closed it in the following note to a friend, which explains 
its origin, and exhibits the spirit in which it was 
penned : — 

^ Surrey Parsonage, July 27thy 1841. 
'* My very dear Friend, 
" One of the mothers of my Maternal replied to my 
remark the other day — I should never be satisfied 
till every mother in Surrey Chapel attended a Maternal 
Association — ^that she was sure they would if I sent 
them an invitation, and circulated it among the poor 
only of the congregation. Believing that, however un- 
equal I feel to any proposed plan for benefiting others, 
my duty is not to let it go unheeded on that ground^ 
but rather, like Hezekiah, to * spread it before the 
Lord," and expect strength if it be His will that it 
be attempted ; I have with much fear and trembling 
penned this little address, and solicit your candid opinion, 
whether you think, if given to those who do attend, to 
distribute among the non-attendants in their neighbour- 
hoods, anyone mother would be likely to accept the 
invitation ? It is such a miserable thing, that I have 
not had courage to submit it to you, but my deaar hus- 
band wished it printed, at least, for my own Maternal 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAF. 91 

to distribute ; but though T do not fear the criticism of 
the poor, I am afraid to encounter that of the ladies 
who conduct Matemals among us, and who, in receiying 
it for their poor to circulate, would be likely to read it 
themselves. Therefore, I have two requests to make ; 
one, that you will, with Christian candour and friend- 
ship, tell me whether you think it would answer the 
purpose, or be suitable ; and supposing so improbable a 
thing, how can it best be distributed ? I really blush 
to lay it before you, but I have such confidence in your 
kindness, that I feel I ought to submit it fearlessly, 
and expect an honest reply. My opinion is, that it is 
wholly inefficient, tame, and spiritless. Shall you be 
here on Friday morning ? If so, let me have the privi- 
lege of speaking to you, and believe me, 
" My very dear friend, 

" Yours most aflfectionately, 

"M. Sherman.'' 

It need not be told that her friend's judgment ap- 
proved, both of the effort and the production, and encou- 
raged her timid mind to send it forth in hope. 

TO THE MOTHERS ATTENDING AT SURREY CHAPEL. 

" My DEAR Friends, 

'^ The great design of God in all his dispensations, is 
the happiness of his creatures : and the great business of 
the immortal beings, whom he has ^ created for his glory,' 
is to promote that design in the world, and to follow the 



92 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

path whicli Christ trod when he assamed our nature, that 
he might accomplish our redemption. 

^' Oar all-wise Creator has implanted in every mind a 
desire for its own happiness, and that of those whom it 
loves ; and though the degree of that happiness, in a great 
measure depends on the character of the mind in which 
it is seated, much depends also on the outward circuin- 
stances of life, and on those little things which we are apt 
to overlook as having no influence either for good or 
evil. But experience and observation teach us, that the 
great events of life are made up of small and com- 
paratively trivial ones : and the tendency of the greater 
is determined by the direction given to the smaller. 

** The anxious desire of a wife and a mother, is to see 
the circle, of which she forms the influential centre, happy, 
prosperous, and useful: and when her wishes have been 
mournfully disappointed, and she finds herself surrounded 
with discontent, discord, and many other evil dispositions, 
how often has conscience told her, that her neglect to 
check the first dissension with her husband, and to seek 
his comfort by the removal of the occasions of complaint ; 
her neglect to check the rising corruptions in the infant 
minds of her children, and to lead them habitually, by 
* example and effort, to the only true source of peace ; nor 
less her neglect to watch over her own spirit and temper, 
have brought these evils into the family, which, but for 
neglect might have been a happy one. 

" The origin of half these sorrows is inconsideration. 
Among the large class of those who literally eat their 
bread by the sweat of their brow, little time can be 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 93 

spared for reading and reflection. To meet this diffi- 
culty. Societies have been formed for reading and con- 
versation on the subject of maternal responsibility, and 
for prayer : and as many mothers have never devoted 
one quarter of an hour to serious and prayerful enquiry, 
' How shall I make home the happy place it was de- 
signed to be? How shall I train my children to be 
blessings to their family and the world, and to be heirs 
of the heavenly inheritance V the employment of one 
leisure hour once a fortnight in conversation on the 
subject, and in endeavouring to discover the right 
means to the desired end, has been found by many 
mothers the source of great benefit, both to themselves 
and their families ; they have been led to the fountain 
of strength and wisdom for direction in their varied 
difficulties, and to their sympathising Friend, who has 
said, ' Cast thy burden on the Lord, and he shall sustain 
thee/ 

" These meetings are designed by no means to draw 
mothers /rom homey but to make that home an object 
of more intelligent interest ; and to prevent the tempta- 
tion to waste time in complaining of domestic trials, by 
employing it in the eflFort to remove them by the aid of 
that Divine Spirit, whose influence must bless as well as 
direct every plan. 

" Several of these aBSOciations have been formed in 
connexion with the Sabbath Schools at Surrey Chapel. 
I now aflfectionately invite the attendance of every 
mother in the congregation at that one which is situated 
nearest to her own abode. And I would urge regular 



94 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

and punctual attendance, as much of the interest of the 
meetings will otherwise be lost. A little previous thought 
and arrangement will prevent serious inconvenience in 
leaving home for so short a time as one hour and-a-half : 
and the advantages to those who attend with a deter- 
mination, as God shall help them, to practise as well as 
hear, will far outweigh the trifling personal sacrifice it 
may demand. 

" Mothers, the precious souls of your beloved children 
are committed to your care, by Him who formed them 
for a happy immortality ; the influence of your example 
they feel in every transaction of the day ; your rule of 
action will be theirs ; the end you keep in view will, 
more or less, be theirs. Shall this world engage their 
minds and yours, while heaven is ofiered, and the * way 
of holiness,' which leads to it, is pointed out to you in 
the ' Word of Truth,' the ' Gospel of your salvation ?' 
Shall the blood-bought soul seek the gratification of self 
as the great end of life, when the glory of God, and the 
service of its Redeemer are designed to occupy its powers 
and its affections ? Will you be satisfied to hear of the 
happiness of the spirits which surround the throne, but 
never aspire to join the glorious company of the redeemed 
with every member of your family ? I invite you to join 
the little band of mothers, who are resolved to seek union 
with that blest circle in heaven; and therefore bend 
their steps wherever they may obtain assistance in their 
way thither. 

" The sacred volume abounds with encouragements 
and promises to praying mothers, and to those I urge 



>fEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 95 

your attention. ' Come with us and we will do you 
good, for the Lord hath spoken good concerning Israel.' 
"That every parent and child in this great congre- 
gation liiay find these ' precious promises' fulfilled to 
them, is the earnest prayer of 

" Your aflFectionate friend, 
" Martha Sherman." 

" Surrey Parsonage, Jvly 1««, 1841." 

This address was accompanied with the following 
rules, less elaborate than those adopted by the Ladies' 
Association, and better adapted to the persons to whom 
it was addressed. 



NEXION WITH THE SURREY CHAPEL SUNDAY SCHOOLS. 

" The object of these associations is the promotion 
of individual and domestic piety, by endeavouring to 
awaken in the consciences of its members a deeper sense 
of their responsibility as mothers, and the great impor- 
tance both by precept and example of training up their 
children in the way they should go. To accomplish 
these purposes, it is resolved : — 

" L That these associations shall meet once a month, 
or oftener as circumstances may allow, at the hours 
appointed by the directress of the meeting. 

" IL Every meeting shall be opened and closed with 
prayer. 

"in. The time allotted for the meetings shall be 
spent in conversation, and in reading the Scriptures and 



96 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

other books of suitable instruction, on subjects that may 
be considered best calculated to improve the minds of 
mothers in the scriptural method of governing their 
children, and the most effectual means of sustaining 
order and harmony in their families. 

" IV. That one or more superintendents shall conduct 
the meetings, and endeavour to keep up the interest of 
them by affectionate and urgent appeals to the hearts of 
mothers in the exercise of their parental duties. 

" Every mother, by uniting herself with the Associa- 
tion, pledges herself — 

"1. To seek the possession of personal piety as her 
great aim. 

" 2. To seek diligently the conversion of her childreA 
as a promised blessing ; to pray with and for them, and 
to avail herself of every means in her power to assist 
her in the discharge of her important duties. 

"3. To observe sacredly the Sabbath-day, and en- 
deavour to follow up the instructions of the Sabbath 
School. 

"4. To make the Bible her personal and family 
guide ; to maintain secret, and, if possible family prayer. 

" 5. To bear on her heart in prayer tho mothers and 
children of the association of which she is a member. 

"6. To make no mention to her neighbours or others 
of family concerns or failings. If, however, she be in 
circumstances of trial or difficulty, requiring counsel and 
prayer, she may communicate privately to the president, 
who will feel it her privilege to be at all times her 
friend. At the meetings of mothers the remarks of each 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 97 

should be addressed to the president, that all may hear, 
and confusion be avoided. 

" At the half-yearly meetings, in January and July, 
the members of the association are expected to bring to 
the place of meeting such of their children as they shall 
deem proper. At these meetings, an address is given to 
the children by a minister. It is recommended to every 
member to be a lover of home, to leave it only when 
duty requires, and to avoid every thing which may 
interfere with domestic order and harmony, — ^to main- 
tain to the utmost of her power punctuality in every 
engagement, and to observe strict attention to cleanli- 
ness, both in her person and her house ; thereby render- 
ing her home comfortable and inviting to her husband : 
— ^to enforce by gentle firmness uniform obedience from 
her children ; to avoid all harshness and violence in the 
management of them, and to exhibit to her family an 
example of all she wishes them to be.'' 

When absent from home, through ill health or the 
claims of parental love, her practice was frequently to 
write a letter addressed to the poor mothers, which 
might be read at their assemblies. Several of those 
epistles became instruments of usefrdness, stirring them 
up to devotedness to Christ, punctuality in their atten- 
dance, and greater watchfrJness over their families. 
Many speak to this day of the joy that was diiSiised, 
from the evidence they afforded of the sympathy and 
piety of their president's heart ; and one of the mothers 
attributes her conversion to the impression produced by 

F 



98 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

a letter from Mrs. Sherman, which was read at one of 
their meetings. The following is a specimen of this 
kind of correspondence, and will show how intensely she 
thirsted after their temporal and spiritual interests. 

^St Boniface Hotel, Yentnor, Fdruary 22rd, 1846. 

" My dbab Fbiends, 
" I received your very kind and sympathising letter 
with much pleasure, and the gratification I experienced 
in shaking hands with you, so immediately before my 
removal from my beloved home, has left a most cheering 
impression on my mind ; one thing which pleased me in 
doing so was, that you might see for yourselves, that I 
was not in so sad a condition as some anxious minds 
have imagined. I trust by thus promptly using decided 
measures, it may be my privilege soon to return to you 
in health and comparative strength. The little meet- 
ings with you, though marked on my part, with great 
weakness and insufficiency, have always proved refresh- 
ing to my own mind, and I am anxious to induce the 
healthy ones here to seek the formation of such an asso- 
ciation. I have not strength, personally, to form one, 
but I will try to infl^uence others to do what they can : 
I know you would gladly second such a resolution. I 
think of you all with increased interest, now that I have 
drank more deeply of the cup of sorrow : this heart has 
experienced pangs to which it was an utter stranger be- 
fore, and so I have been taught more keenly to feel for 
those who are called to drink, if not the same, yet as 
bitter a cup, and much more bitter too ; but there are 



MEMOIR OF M&S. SHERMAN. 99 

sweet promises to such^ wluch not even the Christian 
can prize^ till he is in circumstances of trial ; and there 
are consolations and discoveries of the Divine character 
in afiSiction, which are found only then. It is when thus 
exercised and tried, that we realize that Ood is dealing 
with us. When our path is not to be distinguished 
from that of the mass around us, we cannot see that our 
Father is taking special interest in us. The child that 
plays from morning to night, that does any rude thing 
it chooses — even if by no means a rebellious or wicked 
child, yet, if it meet with no effort to regulate the right 
employment of its time — ^no check to rudeness — ^no im- 
pediment to its self-pleasing — ^the inference is, that the 
parent takes no interest in that child, and eventually it 
must suffer for the want of necessary guidance and re- 
straint. The child that is of an age to reflect, will r^ard 
parental discipline as an evidence of love, when pro- 
perly administered, and not under the influence of a dis- 
position as evil as that which it professes to correct, 
and we have only to compare our heavenly Father's dis- 
cipline and regulation of his family, with that of a well- 
ordered household, to see indeed a most humbling con- 
trast, but, at the same time, to find many a mysterious 
point made clear — and who would not welcome his all- 
wise discipline ? 

" But each of us has her little vexing trials, such as 
we cannot talk about, and if we are not watchful, these, 
which I think are the most calculated, when rightly 
viewed, to prove choice blessings, will miss their design, 
just because we think them too small to spread before 

f2 



100 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

God, and to seek to derive from them a sanctifying in- 
fluence. Our Christian character is far more tried and 
strengthened by these little things^ and the opportuni- 
ties of glorifying God under them, are much greater than 
in our larger trials which we mu-st bring before God. 
More graces are proved, a greater variety and number of 
means for purifying are being exercised, in those every- 
day circumstances, which too often try the temper, con- 
ceal Christ's image, hide God's smile, and embitter 
every thing around. The very things of which you are 
ready to say, ' but for these things I should be a 
happy woman,' are expressly designed by your heavenly 
Father for your special happiness, by correcting in you 
those numberless evils which prevent real and abiding 
happiness. Let it be more our prayerful aim to see and 
regard God's all-wise hand in our daily circumstances ; 
and though they may be things which He does not 
approve, let ns remember that all hearts and events are 
under his control. He permits them for your sancti- 
fication, to draw you out of yourself, to more simple 
dependence on his strength, to gain from them the exer- 
cise of those graces which his Spirit has sown in your 
hearts. But there are some dear mothers among us, 
who dare not believe they belong to the family, with 
which God their Father is taking so much pains ; their 
vexations are seen only as such, and they know no 
sympathising heart. My dear friends, — ^who made us 
to differ ? did our superiority to you, or our natural ex- 
cellence bring us there? Never, — ^his boundless pity 
and graice gave his Son for our salvation and yours — He 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 101 

offered forgiveness, eternal life, and admission into his 
family to us, and He inclined us to accept these bless- 
ings. We would tell you what ' a dear Saviour we have 
found,' and we entreat you to seek Him too, — ^we came 
empty, so must you — we had nothing but our guilt 
and misery to bring Him, nor have you — He came to 
seek and to save that which was lost — we were lost and 
so are you. We are saved by grace and so may you be, 
— Come now, before you return to your home, lest its 
temptations crush the desires that may be rising in your 
minds. Come, and entreat God to extend to you for 
Jesus' sake, the mercy we have found, and to make your 
whole heart open to receive Him, as your Saviour, your 
Friend, and your King; then all things must work toge- 
ther for your good, however painful, for he says they 
shall. The bitter cup shall be sweet, life with all its 
trials, a blessing, — and death, eternal gain. May we be 
one unbroken circle in heaven, and together review the 
way He has led us, and rejoice and triumph in his love. 
" Believe me, ever your affectionate, 

" Friend and sister in Christ, 
" Martha Sherman." 

Several of these associations were formed, under 
pleasing hopes and promises of advantage to the poor ; 
but the removal of their leaders from the field of labour, 
in some cases by death, in some by change of residence, 
and in others by affliction, caused a few of them to be 
abandoned ; in one instance, after every effort had been 
made, the poor mothers could not be prevailed upon to 



102 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

attend more tlian two or three meetings, when they 
found that no temporal gain was attached to the service. 
Some of them, however, continue to this day, the little 
centres of piety and domestic instruction, blessing the 
attendants, and conveying blessings to all whom they 
influence. ' 



CHAPTER VI. 

JOURNEY TO AUSTRIA. 

In the spring of 1842, Mrs. Sherman's useful engage- 
ments were interrupted by an unforeseen and afflictive 
dispensation. The incessant labours during the previous 
five years, which the congregation at Surrey Chapel, and 
the cause of God generally, had required from her hus- 
band, began to affect his health : the organs of speech 
became greatly enfeebled, and the physicians who were 
consulted, predicted that unless he submitted imme- 
diately to entire cessation from all pulpit exercises, for 
at least six months, and resided in purer air, it was not 
improbable, he would have to abandon the ministry alto- 
gether. With such an alternative, submission became 
duty — and, when faith was active, pleasure. To ensure 
freedom from temptation to preach, and to occupy an 
active mind with new scenes, a tour on the Continent 
was advised. The plan of curing diseases, by the appli- 
cation of water only, as practised by M. Priesnitz, at 
Grafenberg, was at this time the subject of popular dis- 
cussion in England, and obtained many votaries. The 
work published by Mr. Claridge, after a recent residence 
at the establishment of M. Priesnitz, fell into Mrs. 
Sherman's hands, which greatly interested herself and 
her husband in the remedy, and determined a residence 



104 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

at Grafenberg, for a few months, to try its effects on the 
pastor's throat and chest. In order to accelerate the 
cure, and minister comfort to the invalid, the society of 
his wife and ai&icted child were deemed indispensable. 
The congregation deeply sympathised with this arrange- 
ment, and liberally engaged to provide for the pulpit, 
during this long intermission of pastoral superinten- 



The following detail of the journey, is supplied from 
a journal Mrs. Sherman kept during the tour — ^from let- 
ters to relatives and friends while absent from England 
— and from notes by another hand, to which she occasion- 
ally refers. As the letters were written to various indi- 
viduals, and often contained similar references to places 
and events, only extracts which supplied the requisite 
information have been taken, and thus a continuous 
narrative is presented and all expletive matter omitted. 

March \%th, 1842. — " At a quarter before twelve, 
we left our beloved home, in company with dear Mary 
and Mr. G. Burls, for the steamer, which was to start for 
Ostend, at four in the morning. The deep silence on 
the water, as we proceeded in the little boat to the 
steamer, and the soft beams of the moon, which had not 
long risen, gave a solemnity to the scene, not easily 
forgotten. The excitement of the morning, when we 
bade farewell to the affectionate, prayerfril hearts at 
Surrey, was exchanged for a solemn, quiet repose, which 
was most refreshing ; and the mind seemed to rest upon 
one assurance of the Hearer of prayer — * certainly I 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN, 105 

will be with thee.' The passengers were in their berths, 
and the captain and a few men sat smoking around the 
cabin fire, quite unconscious of the feelings which were 
strongly exerting themselves in the minds of the party, 
who had just disturbed them ; still less of the excite- 
ment which had preceded their arrival. Little did the 
captain imagine, that many hundreds of prayers, perhaps 
thousands, had been offered, that the voyage might be a 
prosperous one ! Those prayers were heard, and many 
circumstances combined to render it, in the hands of a 
covenant God, most pleasant and delightful. A snow- 
storm made us welcome the cabin, and at last our berths, 
as the rolling of the vessel assured us we were not on 
terra firma. We arrived at Ostend two hours sooner 
than the usual time, and proceeded to an English hotel, 
where an American, combined the offices *of master, com- 
missioner, waiter, and cheat ; for we discovered, when we 
had left Ostend, that he had taken great advantage of 
us, in various ways. The Sabbath was spent very diffe- 
rently firom our ordinary Sabbaths ; — ^we were pleased to 
find English preaching in the Protestant church. Mr. 
J. preached an evangelical, though almost Puseyite, 
sermon, on ^ I must by all means go up unto this 
feast.' The captain and stewardess were among the few 
hearers.'' 

^Ist, — " We took the railway to Brussels, and had 
excellent rooms in the Hotel de France, but the 
charges were immoderate. An opportunity was afforded 
of converse with our excellent friend, the Rev. S. 
Boucher, who has succeeded, amidst the carelessness 

F 3 



106 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

of Protestants, and the opposition of Papists, to estab- 
lish an evangelical church, in priest-ridden Brussels — 
he cheered us with hope of the conversion of many souls. 
iioi give him ample success ! Brussels has above 
100,000 inhabitants, principally Roman Catholics ; 
what a field for pious exertion, — especially as government 
imposes no restrictions on the places, or the mode of 
worship. The park has some excellent avenues of trees, 
and is adorned with statues, but is too formal, and wants 
the freedom and elegance of our English parks. We 
went over the king's palace, but, with the exception of 
costly furniture, and one beautiful portrait by Vandyke, 
(the Chapeau de Velours,) it has but few attractions. 
The palace of the Prince of Orange is a very handsome 
building, and its collection of pictures very choice — 
some of them 'had been removed by the Prince, but 
enough remained to render it a pleasing and improving 
exhibition. It has inlaid and poUshed floors, over 
which we were obliged to skate in carpet slippers, and 
were rather unceremoniously hurried through the rooms 
by the major domo. The unfortunate Prince of Orange 
only inhabited this palace about a year before the revo- 
lution of 1830. The Hotel de Ville is the most superb 
of all the municipal palaces we saw in the Netherlands ; 
its beautiful tower of gothic open work commands a 
view of the field of Waterloo, about ten miles distant, 
from it we could discern the colossal lion in the centre. 
The cathedral church of St. Gudule is very handsome, 
and remarkable for exquisitely painted glass windows, 
supposed by judges of the art to be the first in existence. 



MEMOIR OF MRS* SHERMAK. 107 

The pulpit is a masterpiece of carving, representing the 
angel turning our first parents out of Paradise, and id 
well worth a visit/' 

23rd — " We started by railroad for Li6ge, and the 
next morning, before breakfast, visited the Church of 
St. Jaques, where a great number of apparently devout 
worshippers were assembled, more, I fear, than could 
be collected to an ordinary Protestant service in Eng- 
land, at so early an hour. The church, as a building, 
is filled with the elegancies of architecture. About 
noon, we secured the coupe in the diligence, and 
passed through beautiful scenery, along a lovely valley, 
and by the side of the river Vesdre. We entered a 
bookseller''s shop (M. Kolmer's) to buy a map, and 
found him a very interesting man, who spoke English, 
and kindly sent one of his shopmen through the town 
with us, to all the principal places worth visiting. Its 
warm springs were a great attraction to the Romans, 
and no less so to the modem Germans. In its Cathe- 
dral, Charlemagne was interred ; the vault was opened 
by Otho, in 997, and the body was found, not reclining, 
but seated on a throne, with a crown on his fleshless 
brow, kingly robes covering his skeleton, a sceptre in his 
hand, a copy of the gospels on his knees, and a pilgrim's 
pouch fastened to his girdle: — these relics were removed 
to Vienna, except the throne in which he was seated, 
which resembles an arm-chair. What a humiliating 
picture of human dignity ! Late in the evening, we 
arrived at Cologne, which is a dirty place, with no ex- 
terior attractions, except the Rhine. Its churches, how- 



108 MKMOIE OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

ever, are fine buildings, and its unfinished Cathedral, 
splendid. There are some ridiculous paintings in the 
Museum on the Last Judgment ; the invention of the 
painter has turned the most awful subject into a gro- 
tesque exhibition. The original design of the Cathedral, 
if completed, would have been a stupendous monument 
of genius and art ; but the choir only is finished, and 
its beauty and magnificence must be seen to be appre- 
ciated. Hope says, — * internally, from its size, height, 
•and disposition of pillars, arches, chapels, and beauti- 
fully coloured windows, it resembles a splendid vision.' 
The treasures of the tomb of the three kings of Cologne, 
or magi, who came from the east to visit the infant 
Saviour, though greatly diminished from their original 
value, are still said to be worth nearly 66^250,000 ; if 
they are equal to half the amount, it is a pity such a 
mass of useless property should remain to support a 
falsehood. The skulls of these kings are shown through 
an opening in the shrine, and their names, Oaspar, 
Melchior, and Balthazer, are studded with rubies ; 
crowns of silver-gilt, ornamented with real jewels, adorn 
these deaths' heads, and a more ghastly sight cannot be 
conceived. The tower has not advanced to a third of 
the height originally intended — ^the crane of the work- 
men has remained at the top some hundred years, and 
seems to intimate that the present generation intend to 
finish it. The King of Prussia has spent many thou- 
sands on its restoration, and a general subscription is 
being raised throughout Germany, for its completion. 
" The famous painting by Rubens, of the Crucifixion of 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 109 

Peter, with his head downwards, is the altar-piece of the 
church which bears his name. Rubens considered this 
his masterpiece, but Sir Joshua Reynolds allows it only 
an inferior place among his works ; it is by no means a 
pleasing picture. A wretched copy covers the original, 
which is only shewn on Sundays and festivals, except 
for a fee of fifteen silver groschen to the sacristan. 

" The church of St. Ursula has nothing remarkable 
in its architecture, but it is filled with the bones of 
St. Ursula, and 11,000 virgins, who, with their leader, 
a British princess, were slaughtered at Cologne by the 
barbarian Huns, for refusing to break their vows of 
chastity. All round the interior of the building, these 
hideous relics in glass cases, meet the eye. The legend 
is, I presume, as much to be credited, as that the church 
possesses a vessel which contained the water that was 
turned into wine, and a link of the chain that was 
knocked oflF Peter by the angel ! these pretended relics 
are shewn for a fee by the verger. The church of the 
Jesuits has a splendid altar-piece, and the whole interior 
is richly gilt, and overloaded with ornaments. The 
marble before the altar is beautifully carved, represent- 
ing the ark, the mercy-seat, the manna, the grapes of 
Eshcol, &c. In no place is Eau de Cologne more neces- 
sary than in the city where it is manufactured : you need 
have it sprinkled on your clothes, and walk with a bottle 
of it in your hand, to counteract the ofiensive eflSuvia 
that every breath of air wafts through the streets. 

26th. — " We proceeded to Bonn ; the river winds so 
much from Cologne, that the distance by steamer be- 



110 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

tween the towns is thirty miles, and by road only twelve. 
We determined therefore, to follow the road, though the 
country is flat. With scarcely an interval it is one con- 
tinued avenue of trees from Cologne to Bonn. We had 
anticipated the Sabbath with pleasure, as we heard that 
there was English service at the Protestant church ; but 
to our dismay we found it was only during the summer 
months^ I preferred a quiet Sabbath in communion 
with my best Friend, to attending either the Protestant 
German preaching, or visiting the Catholic churches, 
though being Easter Sunday, it was a high day. Dear 
husband attended with much interest the Protestant 
church ; he afterwards went to the vestry and spoke to 
the minister. He did not speak English, but sent for 
one of his hearers, a continental missionary, the ReVi 
Mr. Major to interpret ; a happy circumstance, which 
introduced to us a most excellent man, with whom we 
took tea, and who gave us encouraging information. of 
the progress of the gospel in Germany. I was exceed- 
ingly delighted with the pleasure and gratitude which 
the chambermaid manifested, for a few German tracts 
which I gave her : she complained that few persons 
regarded a servant's best interests at an hotel God 
give the seed sown, his blessing ! 

" The next morning Mr. Major, Lieutenant Bunsen, 
and his brother, students at the University of Bonn, 
to whom we had introduction, through the Prussian 
Ambassador in Brussels, breakfasted with us at the 
hotel, and strongly recommended Mr. Blockman's school 
where they were educated at Dresden, for our dear boy. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. Ill 

They accompanied us to the steamer for Goblentz, and 
while expecting its arrival from Cologne, we remained in 
a sort of waiting-room, where the oddest group of persons 
was assembled ; all respectable, in their own opinion, at 
least.'' 

29th. — '* For the first time, I found myself on that 
noble river the Rhine. Soon after we left Bonn, we 
came to the Siebengebirge, or Seven Mountains (as they 
are called) though they exceed that number ; but the 
chief of the group are seven, each of which is crowned 
by a castle or hermit's cell. They are Stromberg, 
Niederstromberg, Oelberg, Wolkenberg, Drachenfells, 
Lowenberg, and Hemmerich, and form a grand com- 
mencement to the scenery as you ascend the river. In 
the castle which crowned the Lowenberg, Melancthon, 
and Bucer, spent some time with the Catholic Arch- 
bishop Herman Von Wied, who afterwards embraced the 
Protestant faith, and joined the ranks of the reformers. 
Here numerous castles, churches, oratories, and ruins, 
present themselves in all imaginable forms ; teaching us 
the mutability of sublunary things. The miserable mud 
walled houses in the villages, had taken the place of the 
mansions of the great and noble. The castles, some of 
which were built by the Germans to defend them from 
the attacks of the French, had been blown up by them, 
and now presented nothing but ruins, which add greatly 
to the romantic character of the scenery. Others were 
built by bands of robbers, who enforced a toll on every 
vessel that passed up or down the river. Strong armies 
have been defeated repeatedly, in their attempts to eject 



112 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

these nefarious inhabitants of the rocks ; and the ruined 
turrets show the eventual success of these eflForts to free 
the merchant from this unjust tax on his merchandise. 

" At Roderberg, which we passed, is an extinct vol- 
cano ; its crater is a quarter of a mile in diameter, and one 
hundred feet deep — corn now waves on it, and reminds 
one of the glorious change which grace makes in many 
souls, which once gave forth nothing but blasphemy and 
evil, but now bear fruit to God. Large quantities of 
lava, similar to that found at Vesuvius, are scattered 
around it. Adjoining this, is Rolandseck, a castle built 
by the nephew of Charlemagne, in order to command a 
view of the convent in which his betrothed bride was 
immured. That convent stood on an island in the 
middle of the river, and still bears the name of Nonnen- 
werth (Nun's Island,) but it is now converted into an 
excellent hotel, and, though dispossessed of its nuns, 
remains in the condition in which they left it, their cells 
forming the bed-rooms of the visitors. Unkelstein is a 
hill composed of basaltic columns, similar to the Giant's 
Causeway in Ireland, and formerly extended far into 
the bed of .the river ; but as large rafts of timber in the 
commencement of the winter, manned sometimes by 
200 or 300 men, float down the Rhine, these rocks 
greatly impeded their progress, and the French blew 
them up. Happy had it been for the world, if gun- 
powder had never been used for a less injurious purpose ! 

" After visiting several villages and small towns of 
no great note, but each having its local attraction and 
legend ; we came to Andemach, the oldest city on the 



MEMOIB OF MES. SHERMAN. 113 

Rhine. Its ramparts, watch-towers, and church, demon- 
strate its antiquity ; hut it is miserahly dirty and poor. 
The Jews are expelled from it — ^not a ready way to 
obtain a blessing on any place. The peasants, by forced 
labour, built the castle of Frederickstein, and have, in 
consequence, named it the Devil's House. ! that all 
the devil's houses were in like ruins. 

" Neuwied is a settlement of the Moravians — a very 
flourishing little town, where Jews, Catholics, and Pro- 
testants live harmoniously, without interference from 
the state. As far as my observation extends, religion 
flourishes best, where governments let it alone. The 
church and schools of the Moravians are very interesting, 
especially the latter, where many English children are 
sent, and obtain a sound classical and religious education. 
Near this spot> is the buried city of Victoria, the anti- 
quities of which, collected in the palace, we much wished 
to see, but had not time.'' 

30th. — " Arrived at Coblentz, and occupied apart- 
ments in the Giant's Hotel, which commands a view of 
the extensive fortifications, Ehrenbreitstein, the mouth 
of the Moselle, the bridge of boats, and the splendid 
Rhine. We were recommended to go to another hotel, but 
its situation and accommodations can scarcely be im- 
proved. Coblentz is a lively city ; its active commerce, 
its vicinity to Ems, and its situation in the centre of the 
chief spots of interest on the Rhine, will always command 
a large population and numerous visitors. Ehrenbreitstein 
is the Gibraltar of the Rhine, once the stronghold of the 
Electors of Treves ; but after twenty years of labour and 



114 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

immense cost to the Prussians, (not less than five mil- 
lions of dollars,) it is now rendered one of the most 
complete fortifications in Europe — capable of holding a 
garrison of 14,000 men, with magazines large enough 
to contain provisions for 8000 men for ten years, and 
cisterns that hold a supply of water for three years^ 
furnished by springs without the walls. If the same 
money and labour had been spent in Prussia, in spread- 
ing the gospel of peace, during the twenty years this 
fortress took in completion, what fruits might now have 
been reaped. 

" We left Coblentz in the steamer, and proceeded to 
Mayence — ^the chief beauties of the Rhine now com- 
mence, and are unrivalled in their grandeur. The 
scenery loses its previous cheerful character, and assumes 
a sombre dignity, from the contracted gorges and gloomy 
shadows formed by the rocks and mountains, for many 
miles — ^while castles in ruins, on their summits, with all 
their historical associations, give a romance to the scene 
not easily described. The first of these is Stolzenfels, 
beautifully situated on an abutting rock, commanding 
views of the Rhine and the Latra. A friend on board 
said, that it had been, only a few years ago, oflFered for 
sale at seventy dollars, and a purchaser could not be 
found ; but the town of Coblentz presented it to the 
Crown Prince of Prussia, who has expended considerable 
sums upon it, and intends to restore it to its original 
condition. It is a very picturesque object. An ancient 
church nearly opposite, has been reduced to a ruin 
through a law-suit about tithes, which lasted forty years. 



MEMOIE OF MRS. SHERMAN. 115 

At Rhense a few walnut trees in a field, whose shade 
covers three stones, mark the spot where an octagon 
bnilding stood, called the Eonigsstuhl, which had seven 
stone seats round its sides, and one in the centre for the 
Emperor. Here the four Rhenish electors met, to elect 
and dethrone emperors, to levy war, or ponclude treaties 
of peace ; yet that which was once so important a spot 
to the destinies of many countries, is scarcely discernible 
amidst crops of potatoes. Marksburg is a castle on the 
summit of a conical rock, of very imposing exterior, 
and the only one on the Rhine uninjured. Its interior 
is equally interesting, for its awful Folterkammer, or 
chamber of torture, — the rack on which its inmates 
were stretched, and the instruments used for strangling 
offenders. I felt a sad shudder as I viewed them, and 
traversed the narrow passages, and entered the dungeons 
which had once held the poor captives. G;pd be thanked 
that the tyranny of that age has passed away, and the 
milder spirit of the gospel possesses the minds of those 
who exercise power. 

" Boppart is an ancient town, once an imperial city, 
in which many Diets of the empire were held, but its 
streets are dirty, dark, and narrow, interesting only to 
the architect and antiquarian, and convey no idea of its 
ancient kingly dignity. More interesting and pictu- 
resque are the castles of Sternberg and Liebenstein, 
which crown the summits of a lofty rock, and seem to 
defy each other. Next appears the immense ruin of 
Rheinfels, the most extensive on the Rhine, and which 
must have cost a prodigious sum, even in those days of 



116 MEHOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

cheap labour. From this stronghold, Count Diethen 
could levy tribute on all yessels and merchandize passing 
it on the riyer ; but when he attempted to raise the toll, 
the burghers of the adjoining towns, with an army, 
besi^ed the fortress for fifteen months in vain. Their 
want of success led to the confederacy of the Rhenish 
German States, whose numerous armies succeeded in the 
thirteenth century in destroying that, and most of the 
suirounding robbers' nests. It was afterwards repaired, 
but the French blew it up in 1794. Near this spot is 
a whirlpool, which excited my fears a little; we dis- 
covered it by a circular current, which rapidly flowed 
near the centre of the river. Here the scenery became 
increasingly grand. Two small cannons were fired from 
the vessel opposite a tall cliff, called the Lurleiberg, 
which awoke an echo that repeated the sound fifteen 
times, and produced a singular and pleasing effect. 
After passing Oberwesel, Schonberg, Bacharach, Rhein- 
stein, and the Mouse Tower, which Southey has cele- 
brated by the tradition of Bishop Hatto, we come to 
Bingen, where we hoped to land and survey the scenery, 
which is said not to be surpassed by any on the river ; 
but as we had one object in view — ^the restoration of 
health by a certain process, we passed on to our destina- 
tion. The scenery on the Bhine at this part changes, 
and becomes flatter ; yet it has its beauties, and we were 
much indebted for many of them, to the mountains which 
we had previously passed. So, many of our pleasant 
earthly joys consist in retrospection — ^not so our heavenly 
joys — we are here anticipating them, and now and then 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 117 

have sweet little foretastes of our heavenly inheritance, 
where, as the mind expands with its increasing know- 
ledge of God in his immediate presence, it is ever look- 
ing forward to more joys, by an increasing capacity for 
such pure enjoyments. A little shower, succeeded by a 
bright sunshine, presented to us the most splendid double 
rainbow I ever saw, reminding us that our distance from 
our highly privileged country, did not separate us from 
our covenant-keeping God. We trust He has made with 
us a better covenant than that which He made with Noah, 
ordered in all things, and sure as that ; but whose bless- 
ings extend beyond the little speck of time which earth 
affords. 

" The vineyards on the Bhine are not so picturesque 
as I had fancied — the vines are short, and fastened to 
sticks, and look little better than our raspberry bushes ; 
though this is not the season of the year to see them 
to advantage, yet even in their foliage and fruit, they 
can hardly be graceful. The terraces on which they 
grow are in many places formed of earth carried to the 
ridges of the rock, and secured in baskets, to prevent 
the soil being washed down the declivity by the rain. 
A succession of these terraces, in some situations 
ascending one above another to the height of 1000 feet, 
has a singular and not unpleasing appearance. The 
cost of cultivation, and the expense of the finest vines, 
astonished me, and, in my apprehension, justified our 
teetotalism. 

" Although Mayence is a large and ancient city of 
about 32,000 inhabitants, and contains many objects of 



118 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

interest, especially its cathedral and pnblic gardens, we 
determined to defer onr inspection of it, and crossed by 
the bridge of boats, to go by railway for Frankfort, where 
we arrived about eight o'clock in the evening. The next 
day we examined this handsome and lively city, which 
pleased me more than any I had seen in Germany. Its 
buildings are lofty, and in the principal street and quays 
opposite the Maine, where its rich merchants and states- 
men reside, are fit for princes. Baron Rothschild's villa 
is near the Bockenheim gate, and is most sumptuously 
fitted up. We joined a party to see the famous Golden 
Bull, by which the Emperor Charles IV., in 1356, 
regulated the number of electors, and their mode of 
voting in the election of the German emperors. It 
is shown in the Election Chamber, at the Town- 
house called the Bomer, but is hardly worth the extra- 
vagant fee of a ducat for the sight, except to an anti- 
quarian. The exquisite statue of Ariadne, the boast of 
Frankfort, is an incomparable work of art ; it is placed 
in a room in the garden of a private gentleman, and is 
readily shewn to strangers. Selina and I went in with 
a party of ladies to see it. We spent the evening with 
dear Dr. Pinkerton and his family : we also met there 
the Rev. M. Bonet, the French pasteur — how refiresh- 
ing to find pious minds in a foreign clime, where we can 
converse on a land from which we shall never journey ! 
The cathedral is not a very remarkable building, except 
for its antiquity, and for being the spot, at which before 
the altar, the German Emperors were crowned: — ^the 
wooden crown was suspended above his majesty, and let 



MEMOIR OF MBS. 8HEBMAK. 119 

down by a pulley on his head — an awkward thing if the 
rope had broken. 

" After spending a most happy morning at Dr. 
Pinkerton's, in conversation chiefly with M. Bonet, we 
prepared for our departure to Leipsic. As it was the 
annual fair there, we were advised to take places in the 
public conveyance (the SchneU-post,) and to travel over 
a distance of 215 miles without resting, as it would be 
difficult to get conveyances at this busy season. The 
clerk at the Post was most polite ; assured us that he 
would secure places for us in the carriage which went 
through without changing, and that we should arrive at 
Leipsic early on Saturday evening. We comforted our- 
selves with hope of rest and shelter from the weather ; 
but alas ! we were disappointed in both. I had fallen 
asleep soon after I took my place, and the first object 
that attracted me when I awoke, was a man in our car- 
riage preparing to light his pipe. Dear husband imme- 
diately inquired, whether such an act was permitted in 
the carriage — this inquiry I backed by the most implor- 
ing look — ^he took the hint, and happily for us, avoided 
our forbidding company the rest of the journey. A very 
worthy German, speaking English, was our fellow-tra- 
veller, he taught me a few sentences in German. After 
the second stage, we were ordered out to change our car- 
riage in the midst of rain and sleet. We were put into 
' a bye-carriage' with a leather curtain to screen us, but 
which proved insufficient to keep out the weather. The 
vehicle was changed, though not improved, at every 
stage throughout the journey, when we had also gene- 



120 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

rally a different companion. A young student amused 
and delighted us with his attentions, purchasing violets, 
fruit, &c., and beguiling the time by the most ludicrous 
efforts to speak English. When I found that from the 
number of travellers, bad roads, and slow travelling, 
there was no hope of reaching Leipsic before the Sabbath 
afternoon, I could only pray that if there was on^ 
Christian in the large company of fellow-travellers, it 
might be our privilege to meet such an one, in our next 
exchange of carriages. My heart glowed, when we 
started afresh after breakfast, to hear in broken English, 
from a most interesting looking Frenchman in our car- 
riage, that the sudden illness of his father-in-law, with 
whom he started from Frankfort in his own carriage, but 
who was compelled to return, had rendered it necessary 
for him to travel on the Sabbath day. This was suffi- 
cient to prove to us, that here was a mind which could 
at least, in some degree sympathise with us. A few 
sentences showed, that the feeble prayer was not dis- 
regarded by Him who knows the heart, and the pain we 
felt in spending in wearisome travelling, the sacred day, 
on which so many fellow-Christians were commemorating 
the dying love of their now glorified Redeemer. Happy 
they who can by faith feed on Him ; who do not super- 
stitiously mistake the emblem for the substance, and 
who exemplify by holiness and growth in grace, the 
likeness of their Lord ; and thus prove that they have, 
indeed, eaten his flesh and drank his blood. The con- 
versation of this dear fellow-pilgrim to the celestial 
paradise was refreshing to our spirits as an ordinance of 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 121 

God ; and I am sure, He who went with the disciples 
to Emmaus on the Sabbath-day was present with us. 
The love of Christ flowed from his lips like a sweet 
stream, proving to us that he lived very near the foun- 
tain. Our mutual hopes and joys were exchanged to 
our individual comfort ; and the sorrows of our journey 
were agreeably and unexpectedly turned into the choicest 
pleasures. How inexpressibly delightful is Christian 
converse with congenial minds ! We separated with 
deep feeling, but with the full assurance of meeting 
before our Father's throne, and spending in heaven 
an eternal Sabbath, in the perpetual contemplation of 
those subjects which had mutually interested us on 
earth. We arrived at Leipsic in the afternoon, and 
after a little repose spent the evening in quiet devotion, 
4ear husband expounding PsaL xxxii. 

^' Mr. Sherman had promised a friend to call on Mr. B., 
but forgot to do so, and his omission did not occur to him 
till we were in the train from Leipsic to Dresden. When 
near the latter place, a lady and gentleman entered the 
carriage ; one sentence only had escaped the gentleman's 
lips, but being spoken in English, justified my husband 
in inquiring, when we arrived at the terminus, which was 
the way to our hotel. Some time afterward, he men- 
tioned his impression that this person was Mr. B. Sin- 
gularly enough, he also wished to know who the English 
gentleman was, who had spoken so kindly to him, and 
expressed his idea that it was Miss P.'s friend, Mr. 
Sherman, who he had been told, was likely to pass 
through Dresden ; on the strength of this supposition. 



122 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

he called at the hotel, and found that both impressions 
were correct. This interview gave my hnsband an 
opportunity to converse with him seriously on his eternal 
interests. Who can tell why this mntual conviction 
was permitted? Eternity will probably reveal, that 
chance had nothing to do with it, but an overruling Pro- 
vidence. At Dresden we were most comfortably accom- 
modated in the hotel De Bom, and found one waiter 
speaking French, all besides were German. 

'' Our first business was to place our dear boy at 
school. We heard Mr. Blockman'^s praise sounded, and 
from the universal estimation of the school, we felt no 
hesitation in placing him there, especially as Dr. Trot- 
man commended it to us for its religious training. 
During our brief stay here, we were introduced to a 
charming little circle of Christians, among whom were 
Lady Bethune, Baron Wirsing, Dr. Trotman, Miss Eule, 
and a few others. Lady B. seemed delighted to hold 
Christian communion with us, and related her brother's 
conversion with deep feeling.. She took us to two parties, 
who meet as a little band at each other's houses, once a 
week, to talk of their common hope, and to stir up the 
spark, which they think would soon perish, without this 
solitary means of communion. These dear Christians 
gave us letters of introduction to others like themselves, 
who, in the absence of outward means, are drawn nearer 
to the great Source of spiritual life and light. We spent 
one evening at the Baron's with much pleasure. Bap- 
tismal regeneration was there contended for ; the opinion 
seems very general among the pious Germans, and these 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 123 

seem to be few indeed. The Lutheran preachers are 
little^ if any better than the Catholics ; they are cold 
and formal in their profession, and very unlike the great 
Reformer, whose followers they profess to be. 

" Dresden abounds in sights of extreme interest. The 
bridge is a fine structure, over the Elbe — ^very strong, to 
resist the ice, which floats down in vast masses in the 
spring ; it was built with money raised by the sale of 
dispensations firom the Pope, for eating butter and eggs 
during Lent. The green vaults contain immense trea- 
sures — we went from apartment to apartment, perfectly 
bewildered with the enormous value and number of ex- 
quisitely beautiful objects — such as statues in bronze — 
carvings in ivory — ^florentine mosaics— engraved shells 
—cabinets of amber — chimney-pieces of Dresden china 
— gold plate — ^vessels formed of precious stones — carvings 
in wood — Nuremberg watches in the shape of eggs, of 
the date of 1600 — ^regalia of the king of Poland — 
suits of the most costly jewels, and diamonds of the 
rarest value. Two cases of diamonds, &c., are of suffi- 
cient value to pay off the whole national debt of Saxony. 
The most remarkable precious stone, is a green brilliant, 
weighing 160 carats, and supposed to be above all price. 
In the Armoury, the military costumes of all the Saxon 
kings are exhibited — the saddles and stirrups of the 
horses are literally studded with jewels ; and the Saxon 
jewels are very beautiful ; to an ordinary eye, very little 
inferior to the oriental. We did not visit the manufac- 
tory of Dresden china, which is some miles off, but we 
went to the Japanese Palace, and saw* specimens of 

a 2 



124 MEMOIE OF MES. SHERMAN. 

china, from its first manufacture to the present day, 
collected by Charles the Strong, early in the last cen- 
tury — a most interesting exhibition. Nuremberg and 
Dresden appear to have produced or employed the greatest 
number of talented men of any country in Europe ; but 
they remind one of Cain's posterity, who expended their 
powers on arts and sciences, but left their precious souls 
n^lected, and the great object of life, — ^the glory of God, 
disregarded. 

" The picture gallery is esteemed the first collection 
out of Italy ; very rich in the works of Raphael, Titian, 
and Correggio. Without professing to be a connoisseur 
in painting, every one of ordinary taste and knowledge 
must be struck and delighted with these masterpieces of 
art. Raphael's Madonna di San Sisto, while it is the 
gem of the gallery, is, in conception and execution, 
worthy of the first place among paintings — ^the figure of 
the Virgin soaring to heaven with the Holy Child — two 
angelic children, whose faces beam with celestial intelli- 
gence, gazing at them — ^the youth and beauty of St. 
Barbara, affording a striking contrast to the emaciated 
form of Pope Sixtus — ^present such an assemblage of 
elegant figures, graceful postures, and heavenly counte- 
nances, that, though I revolted at the deception, I felt 
the magical influence of genius and art. Correggio's 
painting, sumamed ' The Night,' exhibiting the In£Q.nt 
Saviour in the Manger, with rays of light beaming from 
the lovely babe, and irradiating the Virgin, who looks 
on undazzled ; while the mastery of light and shade is 
seen in the horizon, by the breaking of the morning 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 125 

through the gloom of night, — ^is an exquisite perfor- 
mance. But it is impossible to particularize — ^most of 
the paintings are first-rate productions, and well repay 
repeated visits. 

"On Friday evening, we saw our dear boy in his 
school, very contented and cheerful. Dear fellow ! may 
God's choicest blessings accompany his residence ! I 
felt it hard to part with him — ^he has been a most plea- 
surable companion, and his attentions to me, draw forth 
a mother's love to him. 

" We left Dresden for Herrnhut on Saturday evening ; 
we had intended to do so in the morning, but no places 
could be obtained in the regular Schnell-post, and the 
* bye-chaises,' with post-horses, were too wretched to be 
encountered a second time. We had no alternative but 
to start on Saturday night, and arrive, as we were told, 
at Herrnhut on Sunday morning, at five o'clock, or re- 
main till Tuesday ; it therefore appeared to be our duty 
to venture the former. For two days, the snow had 
fallen a little, and during the night it continued inces- 
santly ; every thing was covered, our passage was re- 
markably noiseless and solemn from its increasing depth 
as we proceeded. At five we arrived at a little town, 
(I forget the name,) and were awakened by the voice of 
the conducteur, announcing that passengers for Herrnhut 
must make their exit from their warm dormitory, and 
trudge in the snow to another Schnell-post, which would 
convey them the remainder of the journey. Into this 
cold, dirty, shaking thing we entered, consoling ourselves 
that it was not a bye-chaise, which we certainly should 



126 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

have had, if it had not happened to be more convenient 
to the postmaster, jnst then, to send us enclosed. Every 
thing we meet in Germany conveys the same impression 
of comfortlessness ; the men, when smoking, spitting, 
and wrapped in their huge cloaks, appear to concentrate 
most of the comfort Germany knows. The indelicate 
habits are so revolting, that it requires some stretch of 
charity to believe them fully civilized, yet exalted and 
refined minds are found among them: few and rare 
they must be who merit the description of refined, if we 
judge from their habits. And so it is, where the gospel 
in its purity is not extensively believed. This is a 
melancholy spot : there are emblems of religious cere* 
menials in the crucifixes, but if we form our opinion by 
the company we meet on the road, vital religion seems 
almost unknown. May the promised day be hastened 
on, when Germany, with ' the whole earth' beside, ^ shall 
be filled with the knowledge of the Lord i' It was re- 
freshing to feel that the Moravian settlement at Herm- 
hut was a hallowed spot — a little colony of Christians. 
We arrived here at eight on the Sabbath morning, April 
3rd. At a rough but clean little inn, our bed-rooms 
were separated from the sitting-room, by a partition rathei; 
higher than our heads ; Hterally, they are all one room. 
'^ After breakfast, dear husband went to the Moravian 
church. He could not sufficiently understand the German 
prayers or preaching to be much edified ; the singing 
was very sweet and general. After the service. Miss 
Schomberg and another lady called on us, with the 
bishop, the minister, and a Mr. Tank, who is going out 



li^MOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 1 27 

acain as inissionary to Siena Leone. They accompanied 
Mr. S. to Bethelsdorp, to see Bishop Andres, to whom 
he had introductions. In the evening, Miss Schomberg 
attended ns to the church ; the women sit on one 
side, and the men on the other. The single women 
(sisters) wear caps, with pink ribbons under the chin ; 
the young, before sisterhood, wear red ; the widows 
white ; and married women blue. We heard much 
of Goimt Zinzendorf, the founder of this sect, whose 
liberality provided a refuge and home for the perse- 
cuted Christians from Moravia. In the library, we 
saw the Count's family Bible, with many notes in 
his own writing, and a prayer of his mother's for 
him at his birth. He was bom, I think, after his 
father's death. We were then introduced to the Countess 
Faunlock, an interesting old lady residing among them 
— a spiritual counsellor and friend — ^a sort of female 
bishop. The piety of the Sisters and Brethren, it is 
said, has of late diminished in fervour, but it was not 
manifest to us. It was very delightful to be in a place 
where many really love Christ, and all are professedly 
Christians. Frederick Hartmann, who could speak a 
little English, and was anxious to improve in it, offered 
his services to accompany us as a servant ; we gladly took 
him with us, to be our interpreter and friend, as well as 
attendant. He was a tailor, and from the circumstance 
of being one of the Brethren, his trade was secure to 
him, on his return, at any time. From his piety, we 
expected to find him a great comfort to us. 

*' In the afternoon, in heavy snow, we went with Miss 



128 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

Schomberg to the cemetery, through a long avenue of 
trees, designed only for walking funerals — every tomb 
was covered with a small flat stone ; the only exception 
was that of Count Zinzendorf and his family, each of 
which had a square monument. Miss Schomberg and 
Mr. Tank spent the evening with us after their return 
from worship, and Miss S. expressed her r^ret, that she 
was not going to be our companion, instead of Hartmann. 

" Early in the morning of the 5th, we started in a 
travelling carriage, which we hired from hence to 
Breslau, and arrived at another Moravian settlement, 
Gnadenburg, at eight at night. On mentioning that 
we required four beds for our party, we were much 
amused by being introduced into a sitting-room, opening 
into a very small chamber, with four beds close to each 
other, having just space to walk to our respective sides. 
The waiter seemed surprised that we objected to two 
men and two women sleeping in one little hole of a 
room. Hartmann's slowness to comprehend, first mani- 
fested itself here. Happily we succeeded in making 
the waiter understand our wishes, and another room 
obtained. It was still snowing when we left for Parch- 
witz, the next sleeping station, which we reached about 
eight o'clock. Towards afternoon it cleared up, and we 
had a lovely drive, notwithstanding the badness of the 
roads. 

" On the 7th, we went towards Breslau ; the road 
being very heavy, we travelled a stage before breakfast. 
Dined at Gorlitz, a town beautifully situated on the 
river Neisse. We walked a long distance to see, as we 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN: 129 

supposed, a very interesting sight, but found it much 
the reverse. In the Kreutz-kirche, is a representation of 
the Holy Sepulchre, built in 1480, by a burgomaster of 
Gorlitz, who travelled to Jerusalem, with an architect 
and painter, to copy the original. From this spot we 
saw Sandiskrone, a mountain surmounted with basalt, 
about three miles ofif— this was worth seeing — ^but the 
object of our pursuit was ridiculous, and mournfully 
superstitious. A very small room was intended to 
exhibit Pilate's Hall; a wretched diminutive figure was 
represented within a grating — our Saviour in prison. 
Another building, as small, represented the tomb, and a 
mark on the wall indicated the stature of the angels 
who sat at the head and feet of the Crucified ; a large 
stone, and two huge bolts, marked the external part. 
The church of St. Peter's in the distance, from the 
little mound on which this superstitious representation 
was placed, was described as the Judgment Hall, in its 
relative position to Calvary. Three trees represented 
the crosses of Christ and of the two thieves. Oh ! how 
do these miserable people dwell on the circumstantials 
of the death of our Lord, and overlook its design, ' to 
redeem us from all iniquity \ may such scenes endear 
the boundless grace which has taught me to appreciate, 
in any humble degree, the application of the merits of 
His death to my soul. How painfal to be ignorant of 
the language, and unable to do more than leave on the 
table — ^not give — a few tracts. One privilege I can 
retain, I can plead with God on their behalf, and gain 
the ear of the great Intercessor. 

G 3 



130 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHBEMAlf. 

'' From Gorlitz we proceeded to Breslaa, the capital 
of Silesia. It has about 100,000 inhabitants, and is a 
busy, thriving city, enjoying great prosperity, and 
carrying on a large trade, especially in wool The 
churches are exceedingly interesting from sculptures in 
alto relievOy which ornament their exterior walls, and 
are fine specimens of art. Some of them are grotesque 
and ludicrous. One at the Bathhaus, represents Satan 
wheeling his grandmother in a barrow. The fortifica- 
tions are all converted into boulevards and pleasure- 
grounds, and the bastions into terraces for the inhabi- 
tants. Happy conversion ! We reached Neisse on the 
evening of the next day — an ancient city, picturesquely 
built, and which thrives by its contiguity to the Austrian 
frontiers, its liberty being in more striking contrast to 
their bondage. After surveying the town the next morn- 
ing, we hired a carriage to Freiwaldau. The road, as 
far as Ziegenhals, the limit of the Prussian territory, is 
very good, but as the Austrians do not wish to encourage 
travellers into their country, from thence to the little 
town of Freiwaldau it is inconceivably bad : it seems 
literally made to forbid the approach of any carriage — 
deep holes let you down, and huge stones, over which 
the carriage is obliged to go, jolt and shak^ you so ter- 
ribly, that both the springs of your vehicle, and the bones 
of your body, seem in danger of fracture every moment. 
Dear husband preferred walking, as I should have done, 
had not the mud and slush been worse than the shaking. 
During the night much snow had fallen, and, oh ! for 
power to describe the scenery ! The hills are covered 



MBMOIR OF M&S. SHERMAN. 131 

with firs, cypress, and larch — every tree had an appa- 
rent thick foliage of snow, and the fringes of icicles, 
some a yard long, hanging from the thatched roofs of 
the cottages, had the most beautiful appearance ; the 
clear stream alone seemed capable of motion — all else 
around was silent. A little beyond Ziegenhals, our 
luggage was to be examined, and we found the advan- 
tage of having a good man as a servant. After present- 
ing our passport, in which he was described as belonging 
to Hermhut, and stating that we had no forbidden 
article among our luggage ; the officers said, ' As a 
Hermhutter says so, we believe it, I shall not trouble 
you with examination — ^we never heard any thing of 
that people l^ut to their praise.' 

" On Saturday afternoon, April 15th, we arrived at 
the Hotel, in the pretty little town of Freiwaldau — my 
feelings were greatly overcome. When I entered my 
room, sorrow and joy alternately predominated — sepa- 
rated from home by 1000 miles, and among foreigners, 
who were Catholics — ^without any means of grace or 
Christian companions — ^my husband's health shattered — 
a probability that he might never carry on the glorious 
work, which God had enabled him so auspiciously to 
commence at Surrey ; and the infirm health of my dear 
child, was a view which depressed me for a few mo- 
ments, but tbe recollection that Luz could be made 
Bethel ; that here so many had obtained health, and that 
we were sustained by the prayers and sympathies of a 
large number of God's people, dispelled the cloud, and 
led me to trust, and not be afraid. After a night's rest. 



132 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

and a refreshing exposition by my precious husband — 
more precious for his affliction — Priesnitz, who had 
heard of onr arrival, called, and with him kind Mr. 
Bischoff of Leeds, who acted as interpreter. He gaye us 
great encouragement to hope that a short time would 
suffice to restore my dear husband, was very agreeable, 
and advised us to rough it, and take lodgings in the 
colony, at Grafenberg, rather than remain at Freiwaldau. 
" Monday morning, husband went in quest of apart- 
ments, and found three rooms in Schubert^s cottage, 
which a family of distinction had just vacated ; they 
were the best to be had in Qrslfenbeig, and therefore he 
took them. It had been snowing all the previous day 
and night, but as the sun b^n to shine, we went up 
in a little carriage with our lu^age, to our domicile. 
My heart sunk when I first saw our permanent abode, 
it consisted of a large sitting-room, and two smaller 
chambers, all on the ground-floor. The fomiture of our 
drawing-room comprised four deal chairs, one German 
box for a bed, a small deal chest of drawers, a littie 
table, three paintings on glass, of St Victoria, the 
angel Gabriel, and St. John, and a small broken 
looking-glass. In the chambers, were boxes for beds, 
filled with straw, and a small table, with basins about 
the size of pie-dishes, and of the same shape, and a 
couple of deal chairs. Hartmann was to occupy the 
small bed-room, myself and Selina the larger, and hus- 
band had his bed in the sitting-room. It was dreary 
enough to see the snow a foot deep, all around us ; no 
English fire, but an ugly black German stove, and an 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 133 

utter want of every thing like comfort and convenience ; 
yet, before the day was over, we became reconciled ; and 
in a very little time, by the aid of beds and bedding, a 
piano, sofa, a small carpet, and a table-cloth, which we 
hired, and the wild flowers which abounded, we gave 
the room an air of pleasantness, it had never before 
known, and were as happy as if we had been in a palace. 
The rusticity of the abode strips off many imaginary 
wants, and teaches the patients contentment. If there 
were any pretensions to gentility in the accommodations, 
they might remind of their defects, but they are literally 
rustic cottages, inhabited by the poor, who receive be- 
neath their roof, those who come there for shelter and 
healing. Here we erected our altar, and our first offer- 
ing was accepted by the Angel who did wondrously.'' 



CHAPTER VII. 

BESIDENCE AT OBAFENBEBa. 

The nmneroos works which haye been published on 
the Water Cure, and the increasing number of establish- 
ments for its practice, which are rising up in many parts 
of England, have made it so familiar to most intelligent 
persons, that little additional information on the subject 
is required ; and it will be sufEcient, if Mrs. Sherman 
exhibit to the reader its application to herself and family, 
and her opinion of its merits. Yet, in all the volumes 
written on the healing process adopted by M. Priesnitz, 
and on Grafenberg, as a watering-place, no work has 
fallen into the writer's hands which takes a Christian 
glance at that moral wilderness — ^it is, therefore, with 
some satisfaction that he now presents, graphic sketches 
from her own pen of the place, the inhabitants, and the 
patients ; showing how Grafenberg appeared to the eye 
of a Christian lady. 

The jealousy of the Austrian government on behalf 
of Popery, will not allow any eflForts which it can pos- 
sibly prevent, to be made either by its own people or 
by foreigners, to enlighten the population in the doc- 
trines of the gospel. Any attempt at saving a soul 
must be conducted secretly, and with the greatest pru- 
dence ; as the Christian that engages in it, if known, is 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 135 

liable to fine^ imprisonment^ or banishment. Snch is 
Popery still — ^in the 19th century, it cannot bear the 
light, and its only weapon of defence is the strong arm: 
of xinrighteons law. Notwithstanding these ungodly 
enactments, and the repeated cautions given her, not to 
run the risk of provoking the hostility of those in power ; 
Mrs. Sherman's journal and correspondence will show, 
that she contrived, in conjunction with her husband, by 
a prudent use of means, to render the residence of her 
family in Orafenberg beneficial to the spiritual interests 
of some of its inhabitants. The handful of com which 
she cast with trembling hope on the top of that moun- 
tain, may one day shake like Lebanon, and from the 
battlements of the heavenly city, she may see the har- 
vest reaped, and brought in to the celestial gamer to 
the honour of her Redeemer. 

In consequence of the various temptations by which 
they are assailed in every station of life, the followers of 
Christ even in England, when assisted by numerous 
public ordinances and Christian fellowship, find it very 
difficult to maintain the vigour of piety. The difficulty, 
however, is increased a thousand-fold, when those divinely 
appointed helps are removed, and in their stead, super- 
stitious ceremonies oSend the eye, and the blasphemies 
of infidelity, or the maxims of indifference assail the 
ear. Then, to keep the garments from being defiled ; 
to stand aloof from the amusements which are most plea^ 
sant to the camal taste ; to protest by example and by 
Scripture against that which displeases Christ, injures 
the soul, and leaves an unsatisfactory impression of the 



136 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAK. 

nature of trae religion on the minds of the nndecided, 
is condact which a Christian warrior can alone maintain 
— ^bnt is that which the Saviour demands of all his dis- 
ciples. It is lamentable to hear how many professors, when 
liberated from the inspection of their fellow-members, 
or fellow-hearers, by the Straits of Dover, take liberty 
to neglect worship, where they might attend and hear 
" in their own tongue, the wonderful works of God,'' to 
mingle on the Sabbath-day with a godless multitude 
to witness profane exhibitions, or to join in frivolous 
amusements ; and on other days, to be seen in places, 
from which not only their religious profession, but moral 
shame, would exclude them in England. They have 
their reward in the gratification of a carnal taste ; bnt 
their journey, which, perhaps, has recruited health, has, 
by their inconsistency, sunk their piety to a lower ebb, 
and furnished cause for repentance in future days, both 
to themselves and their families. 

How pleasant the survey of a residence in a foreign 
dime, when sustained by living piety, and yielding fruits 
of holiness, like that of the departed. Without the 
abridgment of any unforbidden gratification, and with 
the enjoyment of a peaceful conscience, she maintained 
a cheerful, fervent piety, in the most barren place, by 
enlarged communion with God, and by a diligent study 
of that precious book which affords the richest nourish- 
ment to the soul hungering after righteousness ; as some 
of the following extracts will shew : — 

" Grilfenberg is about a mile from Freiwaldau, all the 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 137 

way up-hill, and in the midst of mountains — ^the rongh 
road to onr dwelling was just passable, from the deep 
snow which was then fast melting, but it remains on 
the monntain-tops till July. Picture to yourself one of 
our four or five-roomed cottages for the poor — this is 
the external appearance — the entrance is like the dirtiest 
of our cottages, but it is thoroughly clean within. The 
women of the house wear no shoes or stockings — have 
a coloured handkerchief neatly tied over the head — 
appear, except on Sundays and holidays, with bare arms, 
and only a chemise sleeve visible. This * furnished' 
house, beside our rooms, has three garrets in the roof, 
one occupied by a Prussian count, another by an Italian 
merchant, and the third by a Polish general. Opposite 
to our bed-room door, about three feet from it, is the en- 
trance into the cows' apartment, whose office it is to help 
to supply Priesnitz's establishment with milk, — ^that is, 
380 persons, — ^their beverage being either milk, or 
water, and nothing else. In far inferior apartments to 
those we occupy, dukes and duchesses, and the great of 
all countries are found, generally with the cow-shed 
immediately under their rooms. I can scarcely fancy 
myself in the same world as when I resided in England, 
but it is certainly a very happy ^ or rather, I should say, 
a very merry one. 

** Priesnitz is a man of middling height and size, 
with a small piercing eye — remarkably quiet in his 
manner — talks very little, and gives you the impression 
of paying great attention to his patient's case. He.is 
like clock-work in all his arrangements, — ^he begins his 



138 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAIT. 

calls at five oVlock in the morning, when he stays to 
see his new patients placed in their yarioos baths, 
watches the effects produced on them, and gives direc- 
tions for the future; afterwards, they only see him 
occasionally, or when they send for him. He rides a 
black cob, which undei^oes, as well as his master, great 
fatigue, and r^ularly takes a bath, standing eyery day 
for an hour in water, which half covers his body — we 
saw him in the bath to-day — ^he looks fat and fall of 
spirit 

" Every house is furnished with baths. The women 
alternately attend to them, guide the plough, sow the 
fields, saw timber, carry stones and manure, mow the 
grass, irrigate the land, reap the com, and, in fact, do 
all the hard work, while their husbands or fathers smoke 
their pipes, make bargains, and occasionally help in field 
labour, when the weather or necessity obliga The very 
cow-house owes its cleanliness entirely to the women's 
care and labour. They are never idle a moment, and 
do not forget to bring the bandages, wet sheets, and what- 
ever their ladies require, at the proper hours, namely, 
half-past four and eleven in the morning, and five and 
half-past eight in the evening. If ours are specimens 
of the whole, they are peculiarly attentive and kind. 
While at breakfast this morning, our old landlady took 
holy water, and sprinkled the seed she was going to sow, 
and the cows which were to harrow after her, in order to 
secure a good crop. 

" The poor whom you meet, if they know you, or you 
have done them a kindness, immediately kiss your hand. 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 1S9 

I am favoured with such a salutation from our washer- 
woman, on entering and leaving the room at every visit. 
The peasants are so excessively jealous of the popularity 
of Priesnitz, that they actually strive, by all means in 
their power, to worry him away from Grafenberg, though 
they are marvellously enriched from the multitudes of 
visitors. What surprising stupidity ! 

" Strawberries are gathered in great abundance by the 
peasants' daughters ; they grow in such profusion in the 
woods, that most of the patients have large supplies 
every day. For a quantity, equivalent, at least, to two 
English pottles, we give the tenth part of a shilling ; 
and though small, the flavour is most delicious. 

" The people never allow their cattle to graze, as they 
have no notion of planting hedges between the fields ; 
consequently, the poor creatures remain at home under 
the same roof with their owners ; women mow the grass 
or clover, and bring it home as it is wanted for the day. 

" Here are assembled representatives from almost all 
parts of Europe; English, French, Dutch, Russians, 
Hungarians, Poles, Swedes, Norwegians, Germans, 
Tyrolese, Turks, besides Americans, come to be cured. 
And on gala days, when they dress in their native costume, 
the groups are particularly interesting. Among others, our 
constant visitors, are. Count N., who distinguished him- 
self lately in the taking of St. Jean d' Acre — the nephew 
of Prince Blucher, of Waterloo notoriety — Mr. R. from 
Scotland, and Mr. L., a clever old Irish gentleman, full of 
wit and amusing anecdote ; besides counts, generals, and 
admirals, in abundance. There are very few English- 



140 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

men, and fewer English ladies, but about two hundred 
persons dine together in Friesnitz's grand saloon, daily, 
as merrily as it is possible to conceive, and who, if some 
did not wear banda^ on their heads, and a few walk 
lame, would be considered a most healthful assembly/' 

In a place like GriLfenberg, where the Lord's-day was 
the chief day for amusement, and no religious ordinances 
were observed, except those of the Catholics, which were 
an offence to reason, as well as to the gospel of Christ, any 
thing like a departure from the Protestant indifference 
which prevailed, by the habit of daily social worship, 
morning and evening, and of a special service on the 
Sabbath, could not pass without observation and com- 
ment. Singing at worship English tunes and hymns, 
in the mountains of Austrian Silesia, seemed like direct 
opposition to the rigid laws of Mettemich ; yet, as it 
was confined to the family, could scarcely be condemned 
by the police. It was, however, necessary to increase 
the number. Several asked to be present at family 
worship — a request which could not be refused. The 
attendants averaged about seven, and many a time of 
refreshing came in those never-to-be-forgotten services. 
After a few weeks, two gentlemen, Mr. Bischoff, of Leeds, 
and Mr. Lister, from Ireland, in the name of the English 
residents, and of others who understood English, called, 
soliciting permission to attend the Sabbath morning 
service. Consent was given, with the hope of sovdng 
the good seed in some hearts. At eleven o'clock the 
service commenced with a Surrey Chapel hymn, sung 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 141 

to a plain time, with which many were familiar, and 
which all conld easily learn. A fine full-toned piano, 
touched with inimitable sweetness and power by Mrs. 
Sherman, sustained the song of praise, and thrilled 
many hearts with devotion and joy. A portion of the 
Liturgy was at first used, but it was found too fatiguing, 
and was obliged to be discontinued. The Psalms and 
Lessons were then read — ^a prayer offered — ^another hymn 
sung, and then a short sermon of about half-an-hour 
was delivered, to as attentive an audience as ever assem- 
bled in a consecrated edifice. The religious sentiments 
of the congregation were almost as varied as their 
countenances. There were, one Clergyman, four Episco- 
palians, an Arian, two Socinians, four members of 
the Lutheran church, one of the French Reformed 
church, one of the Dutch church, an Independent, two 
Plymouth Brethren, three Moravians, and a Catholic 
Hungarian nobleman, besides the family — ^making, when 
all assembled, about twenty-five persons — with occasional 
additions. To these the great truths of the complete 
atonement of the Lord Jesus, and justification by his 
righteousness, through faith alone, with their practical 
effects, were constantly announced, and the sequel proved 
not without some gracious fruit — an object which the 
precious departed never failed most earnestly to seek, 
by following up the sermon by conversation with those 
who sought explanation, or offered objection to senti- 
ments uttered — and above all, by earnest supplication 
for Divine influence. She thus writes to a friend : — 



142 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

" This is a moumfiil place to live in — so utterly 
excluded from eveiy religious privilege, that a Lutheran 
clergyman was imprisoned last summer, for reading a 
sermon every Sunday, to about twenty of his country- 
men. We have been very marked in our entire separa- 
tion from the amusements of the place, which are chiefly 
on the Sabbath-day ; but the English are so venerated 
here, that we have suffered nothing from it. It has 
drawn around us a little knot of Germans, who can 
speak English, and are very anxious to know what is 
right. They have requested to be present at our family 
and Sabbath services, and though piety in these parties 
would require the perfect uprooting of all their customs, 
I cannot but hope that good may be done, ' through 
your prayers and the supply of the spirit of Jesus 
Christ.' He is able to give strength for every difficulty ; 
and oh, what a joyful result of our long journey would 
this be, if one soul were brought to the foot of the cross 
— ^if even one only should be led to take up his cross, 
and follow the Lamb." 

After a few services, the police sent for Schubert, the 
landlord, and examined him at great length, respecting 
the nature of the service on the Sabbath — ^who were 
present — and what was the substance of the address. 
He was ordered by the Inspector not to permit its con- 
tinuance, and to report to Mr. Sherman, that it was 
contrary to law to assemble for any but Catholic wor- 
ship. A conference was held, as to what was best to be 
done, and it was the general impression, that the officer 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 143 

did not wish to disturb the assembly, but that if any report 
were made of it to higher authorities, he might appear to 
have done his duty by commanding its discontinuance. 
It was therefore determined to risk the consequences, 
especially as he had not sent for the minister, but con- 
veyed a message through a peasant, which the English 
chose to think was not treating them with sufficient re- 
spect, and concluded that if he were obliged to take any 
further step, he would send more specific information. 
The services were in consequence continued, to the 
mutual comfort of the little daring band, with occa- 
sional alarms and reports, during the whole four months 
of Mrs. Sherman's residence at Grafenberg, but without 
the slightest molestation. 

" We were particularly gratified,'' she writes, " a few 
days ago, by a young Catholic nobleman, who resides in 
our cottage. He is very pleased to spend some of his 
time with us daily, because he wishes to improve him- 
self in English. He happened to pass our house while 
we were singing at evening prayer : he stopped till the 
close of the service, listening to the prayer, under the 
window, with such interest, that he said, he could only 
mentally pray and sing for a considerable length of time. 
The next day, he informed us what had occurred, and 
asked permission to attend our service, when he was 
able. He did so the next evening, and appeared most 
deeply interested, and told us that for two whole hours 
after he could do nothing but pray. This has gratified 
us very much, especially as he is a man of great fortune 



144 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

and family^ and is qnite independent of that interference 
which common folks experience. If his influence and 
property were guided by a sanctified heart, who can tell 
what a blessing he may prove in his own land, Hungary. 
These circumstances, in Grafenberg, are of great inte- 
rest to us, though in London, so small a thing might 
be little noticed. This morning, we had a Jew and 
an infidel in our house, who were arguing against the 
inspiration of the Scriptures and the Deity of Christ, 
with my dear husband, till I could scarcely bear it. 
These are English people too. Oh ! may we never be 
numbered with such, but may the riches of that grace 
which reached and penetrated our hard and unbelieving 
hearts, reach theirs too, though they now scoff at the 
trutf 

Those who knew Mrs. Sherman, will easily imagine 
with what joy she ministered to the comfort of an in- 
valid clergyman, to whom she was introduced under 
the circumstances which she narrates in the following 
extract: — 

« Gr&fenberg, May leth, 1847." 

" My beloved Mamma, 
" I am writing two days later than I intended, but I 
think you will not suspect me of neglect, when I tell 
you the cause, though it has originated in a temporary 
transfer of attention from my best of mothers, to a per- 
fect stranger ; yet from his being of the privileged family, 
not to be regarded in that light. To explain myself — 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 145 

this day week, we weife told that a lady and gentleman 
from England had arrived. As Selina and I are the 
only English ladies at Orafenberg, our duty was imme- 
diately to introduce ourselyes, and offer to assist them 
in finding a dwelling. We found them in a small 
apartment, in a wing of Friesnitz's establishment, with 
scarcely space to move round the beds — ^fit only for a 
sleeping-room for a bachelor, who spent the day out of 
doors — ^and such a person would only accept it, if he 
could not get a better. We were more delighted than I 
can express, to find actually that the new comers were a 
very pious clergyman and his wife from Guernsey, and 
our anticipation of congenial minds more than realized. 
The gentleman, only thirty years of age, came to try 
the Water-Cure, for what he calls asthma, but which 
Friesnitz calls consumption. Mr. F. at once refused 
to undertake his case, and recommended him to remove 
inmiediately to a milder clime, but he clings to his 
strong presentiment, that this is the cure for him. 
His weakness is incredibly great, — he is reduced to 
second infancy, and seems to us in the last stage of 
consumption. We left them, and after a little walk 
and conversation together, how we could manage, we re- 
turned to his wretched abode — the best that Grafenberg 
then could afford — and invited him and his wife to 
accept our roomy and comfortable apartment, and try 
the effect of a more sheltered spot. The mere offer 
cheered him — he fancied the change might relieve his 
incessant cough, and soothe his sleepless nights ; they 
came that very evening, and took up their abode as our 

H 



146 MBMOIB OF MBS. SHBSMAK. 

gofists — ^while my dear husband slept in the room which 
Hartmann oocapied, not much better than that from 
vhich we invited Mr. B. We manage as well as we 
can, pleased, and amply compensated with the privily 
of contributing to the comfort, even for a few days, of 
this dying Christian. We have been much occupied 
with them, and it has appeared a duty to do what we 
can for them, in a place where neither servants, nor those 
things which an invaUd requires, are to be found as in 
England. His mind is in the most placid, happy state 
—he seems pleased with every thing, and we, of course, 
have been much gratified to find that we have greatly 
contributed to his comfort and improvement in health. 
It was very touching, as with difficulty he crept to our 
dwelling, supported by my husband and his wife, to 
hear him say, as he sunk on our sofa, — ' your kindness 
makes me forget that I am so far from my native land. 
I feel that I am with friends. But you must add 
one more favour — if I should die in Grafenberg, will 
you read the service over my grave?' This was, of 
course, promised him. His skeleton form, and hectic 
cheek, make us fear this really will be his burial place, 
and that his wife will return a widow. My dear hus- 
band's prayers are very delightful to him, and our little 
service on the Sabbath mom, seemed to refresh his spirit 
beyond expression. Who can tell but one object of our 
coming here was to smooth the pathway to the tomb, of 
this gentle, precious servant of the Lord Jesus.'' 

The change of air, the adoption of the cure in a- 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 147 

mild form, and the attentions paid to this good minister 
by his devoted wife were so far valuable, that he greatly 
recovered his health, and was able, for months, to walk 
with the aid of a stick. Mrs. S., writes on the 14th 
June following — 

" Mr. B., is daily gaining a degree of strength, so 
much so, that he rejoices that he came to Grafenberg ; 
but the continuance of night perspirations and expec- 
toration of blood, though both these sad symptoms are 
diminished considerably, tell me that his days are num- 
bered, and we can look on him, only as a vessel sent 
to the harbour, to be repaired suflSciently to reach its 
own haven. They have taken apartments in a little 
cottage near us, so that we can still have their society 
and sympathy, on the points most dear to our hearts.'' 

A friendship greatly prized on both sides was formed 
during his residence at " the place of healing,'' and every 
conversation brought more confirmatory testimonies to 
his childlike, humble piety. Two years afterwards, she, 
concerning whom he used playfully to quote that pas- 
sage, ** a certain woman, named Martha, received him 
into her house,'' had the unspeakable pleasure, with her 
husband, of spending a fortnight with him, and his wife, 
and sweet child, in Bosenheim his charming abode at 
Guernsey. Affection delights in revenging kindness ; and 
it was most interesting to see this dear man and his wife, 
taxing their ingenuity to render every day more pleasant 
by introductions to the first society in the Island, and by 

H 2 



148 MXMOIB 07 MBS. SHERMAN. 

driTestoereiyobjectQf mterest itpreaeiitedL Bnringtlie 
ymt, ehmcli and dissent were not named — the Jew and 
the Samaritan kndt at the same throne, and heard each 
other expound the word of life — ^while thank^yings for 
recovery, and petitions for length of days, ascended in 
one clond of incense from the lips of hoth« Little was 
it then thonght that he wonld be the snryivor, by one 
month, of his kind sympathising friend, who was in 
robust health, when he first heard the soothing tones of 
her voice ; but he lived on till Jnne, 1848, and died at 
Ifaples, frdl of faith and hope in his cradfied Lord. 

If one feature of holiness more strongly marked the 
character of Mrs. Sherman than another, it was an in- 
tense compassion for souls living in ignorance and sin, 
forgetful of God, and heedless of His salvation — this 
prompted hor to every legitimate effort for their rescue. 
Having mixed but little with the worldly and profane 
in her own rank, their conduct at Orafenberg struck 
her pure spirit with the greater horror. The following 
extracts will show, that she ^' beheld the transgressors 
and was grieved ;" but her private, ingenious, and 
loving stratagems to secure their attention, and win 
their souls, will only be known when the secrets of all 
hearts are revealed. 

** I can scarcely credit what I see and hear. Many 
came here apparently dying, who are now running about 
and dancing ; but it is melancholy to witness the dread- 
ful absence of a single spark of religion. Sunday is the 
day of highest amusement. A ball is to be given next 



w^mmmssmmmBm^^m 



MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 14^ 

Sunday, by all the Austrian officers, in honour of the 
birth-day of their Emperor, which falls on Friday, but 
Sunday is selected as the best day. We have received 
cards of invitation, to which we have replied, by express* 
ing our grief at such a gross and unnecessary profanation 
of the day ; but so destitute are the Austrian authori- 
ties of true piety, that if a tract is given to a peasant, 
or an address delivered to a few persons, the aggressor 
is immediately sent across the frontier. Three gentle-^ 
men, their own countrymen, were lately thrown into 
prison for quiet efforts to do good. ! it is melancholy 
indeed to be unable to do any thing ; our only hope is, 
by a decided example of piety, gradually to produce a 
good impression of religion on the minds of the English 
around us — we need the wisdom of the serpent, and the 
harmlessness of the dove, to deal with such characters. 
My heart aches to think how we are surrounded by 
those who are little better than heathens — ^professedly 
the people are Catholics, but really they are infidels ; 
and between the ignorance of their language, and the 
prohibition of speaking to them, through Hartmann, our 
servant, we are painfully situated. The only comfort with 
which we can look on this place, is in connexion with 
the promise, that ' the knowledge of the Lord shall cover 
the earth," and then Grafenberg shall see the true light. 
" I am amazed that we have been able to endure such 
a scene, so perfectly the reverse of the every-day scenes 
of our most happy home. We think of those we have 
left behind, in our honoured and privileged land, and 
their exceUencied shine out as they never did before, 



150 MSMOIB OP MBS. SHEBMAIT. 

even those whom we did not yeiy much r^rd, seem 
most loyeable now. You little imagine what a heathen 
land this is. Bibles cannot be obtained anywhere in 
Austria, I am told, except through the medium of the 
Moravian settlements, and the only method of intro- 
ducing them to Grafenbeig is by smuggling/' 

Believing that no human laws should prevent the 
circulation of that precious book, she induced an indi- 
vidual to try to bring her from Gnadenfrey, one of 
these settlements in Prussian Silesia, a copy of Luther's 
German Bible. This was accomplished, and placed in 
the sitting-room as part of her little library, in a spot 
where the daughters and wife of our landlord, whose 
curiosity was not small, would be sure to see ^' the beau- 
tifiil treasure.'^ The first morning, the daughters made 
enquiries about the new arrival, and asked permission to 
show it to their parents. Opportunity was immediately 
taken by Mrs. Sherman, to explain its contents, of which 
they were entirely ignorant, and to turn down the comers 
of leaves upon passages, which she thought calculated to 
give them a clear view of the plan of salvation by Jesus 
Christ. Then with a solemn charge, to take great care 
of " God's own book," she committed it to the custody 
of the mother, who was to be responsible for its safe 
return. Whenever the old lady could get a leisure hour, 
the Bible was her companion. On returning home, one 
evening, when the sun was setting brilliantly, the writer 
observed her on a seat outside the house, poring over the 
book, and observed, " Well, Mrs. Schubert, you are getting 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBHAN. 151 

^uite in love with Mrs. Sherman's good book — ^take care 
the priest does not hear of it, and forbid you to read it/' 
She wiped a tear away, which she did not wish him to 
see, and replied with great indignation, " Never — the 
priest take it ! if I could get one of my own — ^he and 
the police might hunt a long while before they found it ! 
Why do they keep such good doctrine from us t Jesus 
be merciful to our ignorant souls I" For some time, he 
continued in cotiversatibn, as far as broken German would 
permit, and elicited from the poor peasant's wife, that 
at least she had a desire to learn the will of Ood. It 
was the custom of her husband, every Sabbath morn- 
ing, to go to mass at the church at Freiwaldau — ^after 
the service was over, he regularly entered the public- 
house and returned home intoxicated — to this practice, 
there was not an exception on any Sunday, during the 
first three months the family occupied his house. His 
temper always bearish, became, when he had indulged 
in sch/naps, boisterous and unruly, and it was a comfort 
to his family to see him stretched on the settle fast 
asleep, " till the liquor had gone out of him." As soon 
as he recovered, his patient wife, who had become ac- 
quainted with many portions of the Scriptures, would sit 
down by his side, and beg permission to read to him '^ out 
of Mrs. Sherman's good book ;" she generally obtained 
her desire, and by some " pretty story," as she called the 
narrative of Joseph, prevented his farther indulgence in 
the maddening dra^ight. As much benefit resulted from 
the perusal of the Scriptures as might reasonably be ex- 
pected, on a person between sixty and seventy years of age, 



152 MBMOIR OF MRS. SHEBMAN. 

and who till that Bible was lent her, had never seen one ; 
but the proof that she and her hnsband had not heard 
the word of life in yain, may yet be more distinct and 
evident 

The following extract describes a scene at Freiwaldan^ 
and sho?rs how happily it was improved to spiritual 
advanta^. 

*' The peasants are constant in their attendance at 
the church of Freiwaldau. Last Thursday, was one of 
the chief holidays in the year, in commemoration of the 
Trinity, some say, but none seem to know what it means. 
At Vienna, the Emperor and Empress, and all the aris- 
tocracy unite in the procession, of which we saw a very 
humble representation. The host was carried through 
the market-place in Freiwaldau, on grass which was 
cut and spread for the purpose, and flowers Mattered 
over it. After the host has passed, the people gather 
up the grass, and when their cattle are ill, they boil a 
small portion in water, and make them drink the liquor 
which, they say, invariably cures them ! Four altars 
were raised, at each of which mass was performed — the 
procession then commenced, consisting of little girls in 
white, with garlands, followed by the ladies of the town 
and neighbourhood, and then, in due order, every indi- 
vidual in the place — children with banners and bells, old 
women and men in outlandish attire, alternately repeat- 
ing prayers and singing, all moving very slowly round 
the square, back to the church, whence guns were fired. 
Surely, no Christian could witness such gross heathenism, 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 153 

without a throbbing heart, especially when he knows 
that so large a portion of the Continent is under the 
rule of * the man of sin.' The educated Catholics here, 
are as ignorant of the meaning of this wretched mum- 
mery as the peasant ; the enquiry was proposed at the 
dinner-table, and went round, but none could tell even 
of what it was a memorial Can we believe, that this 
nation is perishing in utter ignorance, and not pour out 
an agonising prayer for them ? If I wake in the night, 
I sometimes feel horror-struck at the conviction, that of 
all the foreigners around us, from whom we are receiving 
constant kindness and attention, there is not one of 
whom we can consistently say, and confidently believe, 
\ that is a child of God.** There is a little knot of females 
here, who consider themselves unquestionably very pious, 
but they cannot be persuaded, that God disapproves of 
their going to balls on the Sabbath, and making it the 
day of greatest amusement. They all habitually take 
the name of God and of Jesus in vain, in fact, swear, 
though elegantly — even the lisping babes catch this 
evil habit. At first, till I knew a little of the language 
I used to contrast the worldly characters, and the poor 
here, as not swearing, unfavourably with those in Eng^ 
land, but I find my gross mistake : those who converse 
with us, know our aversion to the habit, and are fre- 
quently begging our pardon for their forgetfulness. 
Swearing and spitting do not become ladies, but they 
belong here, equally to ladies and gentlemen. 

You will believe, that we are trying our utmost, to 
improve our opportunities with them, but though they 

H 3 



154 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

own sometimes that we are right, they go on stilL They 

tell ns that in Hamburgh, few persons attend regularly 

any place of worship— in winter it is too cold, in summer 

too hot Oh, dreadful state of things ! and these are 

the most excellent around us ! I never felt so certain, 

that my heart does not long for worldly pleasures, which 

my station forbids. In the sweet quiet spots here, my 

spirit often finds : — 

* One there is aboTO all others, 
WeU deserves the name of friend.' 

I cannot comprehend why I should be thus favoured to 
call Him mine, when there are even in my own little 
family, those who know no such Friend. Well may I 
exclaim with the disciple, ' Lord, how is it that thou 
wilt manifest thyself to me, and not to the world V If 
the creature-recommendations weighed with the Divine 
mind, tiiey would have been chosen and / left ; but 
who can understand His matters ? I cannot, but this 
shall be my effort, that He who stooped to regard me 
shall have my time, my heart, my alL May He but 
give me grace to use them to His glory. I never felt so 
much the loveliness of the Divine character, and I think 
I can now comprehend how it is, that when an indivi- 
dual is selected out of a worldly family, to be a recipient 
of the grace of God, he seems to love God so much 
more than others. If we are surrounded with pious 
persons, we are apt to bring down our impressions of the 
character of God, to a nearer level with those around, 
and to compare the one with the other ; but there is no 
comparison between God and the world — ^they axe at 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHBRMANi 155 

antipodes. Far, indeed, is Be above the holiest angel ; 
but we imagine more of his glorioos character, I think, 
in the one case than the other. Be this as it may, I 
feel that my Heavenly Father has not forsaken His poor 
sinfol child, for while He shows me more of the corrup- 
tions of my own heart, He shows also, that His every 
attribute is glorified in my redemption from those cor- 
ruptions, and eventual transformation into his own 
lovely image.'' 

Although many objections may arise in well-informed 
minds, to the application of a single remedy for every 
varying disease, by a peasant who knew nothing of 
anatomy or physiology, and who would be liable to make 
great and grievous mistakes, in cases which require the 
most correct pathological experience and watching ; yet 
facts declare that, notwithstanding his defective educa- 
tion, by the constant application, in various forms, of 
cold spring water, M. Priesnitz has cured hundreds, 
whom the best educated and most skilful practitioners 
have abandoned as hopeless. The fatigue occasioned by 
the labour of the cure, and the time required for the 
various baths and bandages, vrill prevent the remedy 
from becoming universally popular ; still, great refresh- 
ment is experienced by the applications. Retirement 
from accustomed duties ; mountain air, change of scene 
and society, the occupation of the thoughts by the very 
attentions the practice of the cure occasions, and the 
proofs of its efficiency, in some hundreds of improving 
and happy patients, all contribute to sustain the animal 



156 MBMOIR OF MRS. SHSRMAN. 

spirits — to provoke perseyeraace in the use of the 
means — ^to fill the mind with enthusiasm for Priesnitz, 
and with hope of healing for the patient. Mrs. Sherman 
partook of this enthusiasm and hope. She did not 
intend to try it for herself, but Priesnitz recommended 
her to use it under his special direction, in a mild form, 
for a turbulent and noisy cough, which she had endured 
from infEmcy — a cough which in no way affected her 
general health, but which troubled and disturbed her 
during the vdnter months. While she watched with 
the most intense anxiety its effects on her husband and 
daughter, she used it with constancy and energy for 
herself, and it is remarkable that, during the succeeding 
winter, she was perfectly free from a single attack of her 
cough. Her letters to her relatives respecting the cure, 
and what she witnessed at Grafenberg, are not the least 
interesting of her correspondence. The following ex- 
tracts will show her feelings and convictions respecting it 

'' I must now tell you what my dear husband has to 
encounter, premising that he abready feels the benefit 
of it, and that he, as well as the whole body of patients, 
highly enjoys the process. At night he is wrapped in 
wet bandages round his body and chest — ^in which he 
sleeps. At half-past four, the landlord (who, for his 
tact, is called Dr. Schubert) rouses him, makes him rise 
and strip — ^takes a sheet to the cold spring, outside the 
door, and binds him in it like a mummy — over that a 
thick coarse blanket is tucked so tightly, that he cannot 
move hand or foot ; upon these a German feather-bed is 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 157 

placed. About an hour afterwards, he comes in to see 
if his. patient is hot ; if so, he is handed off ont of the 
house, coyered with a blanket, and plunged into a tepid 
bath ; in a week hence, he will get out of this into 
a cold one. He then dresses, drinks a glass of icy 
water, walks out for an hour, drinking as much water 
as he can during the walk, at the several springs, and 
returns to the Establishment to breakfast. At eleven 
he undresses, has another wet sheet thrown over him — 
takes a sitz bath — afterwards writes his letters, reads, 
and then ascends the hill with us, to dine at one. 
At five, another sitz bath, supper at six, and we all 
retire to rest soon after nine. Judge of my quakings, 
when my husband's chest was .exposed, by the removal 
of an under wabtcoat, and a wash leather which he 
wore over it in winter and spring, and all these cold 
applications used; but it is a mysterious system — ^the 
refreshment all acknowledge is extreme, and he has not 
taken the least cold. 

'< I use a sitting bath twice a-day, and have my feet 
day and night in wet cloths, to remove my bunions and 
corns, and the weakness of the ancles which they occa- 
sion. Every morning I get out of bed into a tepid bath, 
in which I am well rubbed, and then plunge into a cold 
bath, and back again into the tepid. This is all that I 
take, with the exception of being rubbed thoroughly 
three times a-day, in a cold wet sheet, which produces 
the milder effects of a cold batL I am much stronger 
and better altogether, and share in the bathing pleasures 
of those around me. 



158 MBMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

** We are all very well. I am getting fat, and sa 
brown as a gipsy. We are scarcely ever in the house, 
except from about eleven to nearly one. The uninter- 
rapted fine weather enables ns to liye in the woods and 
fields, amidst flowers of every hue. We joined a gipsy 
party yesterday, to breakfast on the top of one of the 
mountains, and were walking for two hours and a half 
up a very steep hill, resting only occasionally for a few 
minutes. The splendid view on the summit amply 
repaid our toil. We returned home and bathed, and 
forgot our fatigue, though our journey had been to a 
spot nearly 2000 feet above our cottage."' 

The following description of the means used most 
effectually to subdue a violent fever, with which her 
husband was attacked, will be read with interest, as the 
same remedy has been adopted in many febrile cases, 
and in nearly all has proved equally successful : — 

" I should apologise for having written while dread- 
fully sleepy, owing to my anxious night of wakeful 
watching by my dear husband's bedside, during his 
sudden and alarming attack of fever. I think had you 
been here to witness the effects of the water-system on 
him then, you would fully agree with us, that while air, 
exercise, simple habits, &c., all combine to promote the 
health of the patient of Grafenberg, it was unquestion- 
ably the blessing of God on the administration of the 
Water-cure, in this instance, that perfectly restored him 
to health in four days. He was quite as ill as at Bead- 



MfiMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 159 

ing, his pulse 120, and the pressure on the brain most 
distressing ; but the simple, though certainly unusual 
remedy, of wrapping him in cold, wet sheets, and chang- 
ing them as soon as warm, keeping the head constantly 
wet, and once in the day putting the back of it for a 
quarter of an hour into a basin of cold water, then lying 
out of doors in sun or air as he chose ; — these combined 
means, without a particle of medicine, and no food but 
strawberries and milk (not very unpleasant physic) were 
permitted, to the amazement of all but the calmPriesnitz, 
and those who have from long residence witnessed similar 
instances, to bring him to perfect health and strength 
again. Priesnitz says, it was a most satisfactory crisis, 
and that he has now full permission to leave in a fort- 
night, during which he is gradually to diminish the use 
of the cure. The Englishman who overtook us on our 
road to Grafenberg, has just returned to England, per- 
fectly cured ; and a wonderful cure it is indeed. A little 
child here, was from teething in so dreadful a fever, that 
it was delirious, and the wet sheets in which it was 
wrapped, became in less than five minutes, quite hot. 
The next day the little creature was as well as usual, 
except a slight reduction of strength, which such an 
attack occasioned. After the burning fever was reduced 
by wet sheets, he was put into a tepid bath, to remain 
till he was quite cool : pleased with his situation, 
he played in the bath for nearly one hour, when 
becoming cool, he was drest, and amused himself in the 
open air, though not permitted to run about, lest the 
fever should return : it has once since returned, but was 



160 MEMOIR OF M&S. SHERMAN. 

as quickly removed. Oh ! how I long for it to be fully 
known in England ; it has only to be seen in operation 
to be fully appreciated even by the most prejudiced mind. 
The wonders performed at the Westminster Hospital 
have reached Qrafenberg ; even hospital incurables have 
been restored by means of this system ; horses and 
donkeys, (four-footed donkeys I mean,) have shared the 
blessing, and the Grafenberg cows are healed of their 
maladies by the same method."' 

Some few instances of success which she witnessed are 
also recorded. 

" The remedy seems to benefit the Englbh sooner 
than others. One case I really must tell you. A gen- 
tleman from D., came here for the cure of dropsy in the 
heart and legs, brought on, he thinks, long since by the 
means employed to cure the rheumatism, to which he 
was a martyr. Sick of doctors' bills, he thought he could 
but die, if he came to Orafenberg. A fortnight after he 
came, he was seized with rheumatic fever, and was ex* 
ceedingly ill ; during which the dropsy of heart and 
legs forsook him, and no trace of rheumatism remained, 
except under one foot. In about ten days a little red 
spot came in the calf of his leg, which increased for a 
day or two, when on rising one morning, he felt great 
pain from his thigh down a vein, to the red spot in 
his calf. In a short time, the skin burst, a quantity of 
blood and pus escaped, and with it his remaining pain. 
He is perfectly restored, after being here not quite seven 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 161 

weeks, though he has been a wretched sufferer for years. 
He observed rather quaintly, that ' it seemed as if Pro- 
yidence had bored a hole to let his disease escape.' This 
is but one of the many cases continually occurring here: 
so that we cannot but be most deeply interested in the 
place, the people, and the cure. 

" Oh ! what would I give for M. Priesnitz, to come to 
England. Many whom I know, would, I have no doubt, 
be perfectly restored to health. I am astonished at every 
thing I see around me. All our accustomed opinions 
seem turned upside down. Gold bathing and sleeping in 
wet sheets cure the rheumatism, and most effectually. 
Wet towels on the chest, for cold in the chest. Wet 
towels on the throat, for sore throat. Wet towels round 
the body and feet ! Drinking cold water for spasms, &a 
In a gipsy party the other day, the whole company, 
except my husband, adjourned, owing to the great heat, 
to a pond with a fountain in it ; though delicate ladies, 
they walked in the water, they played the fountain, 
so as to sprinkle themselves all over ; not satisfied 
with this, they wetted their handkerchiefs, and laid 
them on their necks to keep them cool, and not one of 
the party took the slightest cold. They all say, they 
could not have done such things before they came to 
Grafenberg, but we live in cold water here, and are such 
good friends with it, that it never hurts us. The most 
shocking cases have been healed, by no other means 
whatever. What a blessing it would be to the poor, if 
they would try it, but it requires generally much judg- 



162 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHESMAX 

ment to' use it aright — ^sniffioienily, but not too much. 
I enjoy it ezcessiyely, especially the cold bath/' 

The following lively sketches of the state of religious 
knowledge, among many of the best informed of the 
patients, and of some of the excursions and visits which 
she made, will be read with pleasure by all, but espe- 
cially by such as have resided at Orafenbeig, as Chris- 
tians, with similar feelings to herself : — 

'' It is extremely amusing to witness the first feelings 
of newly- arrived English. They start in a compara- 
tively luxurious apartment at Freiwaldau, but the first 
opiiiion that salutes your ears is the perfect impossi- 
bility of living in such a vn'etched place. They are 
soon laughed out of aU this, by the more contented and 
happy inhabitants of the hovels of Grafenberg. The 
result generally is, that they leave their professedly 
fmniahed apartments in Freiwaldau, and their discon- 
tent also, to come among the happy ones of the moun- 
tain, and learn to be happy too. The student of nature, 
in all her forms, has much to do here, especially with 
his own species. I wish I could learn, as some do, from 
observation. Tou might then with reason expect to see 
my mind expanded and improved, but I was ^ ever slow 
to learn ;' and ah, how slow in that which is most 
important. My Heavenly Father opens volume after 
volume to me almost in vain, and my progress in the 
knowledge of himself, and of my own heart, is nearly 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 



163 



imperceptible to myself, and I fear quite so to others. 
Pray for me, my beloved mother, that I may not return 
to my highly-favoured land, as ignorant as I left it. 

" The public dinner in honour of Queen Victoria's 
birth-day was very agreeable to all who attended. My 
dear husband presided with much propriety. The party 

consisted of Count N , of Acre notoriety,— all the 

English, Scotch, and Irish,— the Prussian Consul and 
family, and one lady from Hamburg,— the last to keep 
the clergyman's lady, Selina, and myself in counte- 
nance ; our number was altogether seventeen. All the 
toasts, and they were very few, were proposed in water. 
Some few would not drink the Queen's health in water, 
and two bottles of champagne were introduced, but not 
more than the half of one bottle was drunk. My bus- 
band gave ' the civil and religious liberty of England ; 
may it be preserved, increased, and extended over the 
whole world,' and descanted on it most happily— a 
foreigner at the table remarked, that he believed that 
was the first time such a toast had ever been drunk^in 
Austria, and it would not b^ forgotten. that liberty 
might dawn on that priest-bound land ! We all re- 
turned home after dinner, which is usual with the 
Germans — they do not attempt to stay the evening, as 
with us. I think some of the enemies of teetotalism 
should come to Grafenberg — they must be teetotalers 
herer— and it is remarkable, to hear all parties agree, 
that using water as a constant beverage has taken away 
their relish for wine, which, when they dine out, is 
generally untouched. Perhaps Mr. D — —may turn 



164 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHBRMAH. 

his steps this way. I should like him to see how wine* 
bibbers can prefer water, when they give it a triaL 

'^ Yesterday, June 13th, we went on^ a picnic party 
with the Consul's family and some Mends, twenty-four 
in number, to a most lovely spot, about fifteen miles 
hence, among the mountains. We filled eight various 
carriages. The scenery is quite i la Suisse. * Selina 
and I wore immense straw hats, like shepherdesses, 
which are purchased here at three-pence each, to shield 
us firom the sun, and most delightfully did they perform 
their duty. We wish for curiosity sake to transport 
them to England, for garden use. We dined on the 
side of a mountain, by the ruins of an old castle. The 
village of Goldenstein is small, and its inhabitants 
almost exclusively Jews. I could not but look forward 
to the time, when such little portions of Ood's ancient 
family shall be restored, and hope that these may be 
of the number of His elect ones. ' But how shall they 
believe in him of whom they have not heard, and how 
shall they hear without a preacher, and how shall they 
preach except they be sent?' It was so in apostolic 
days, and not less so now. Oh that we might be privi* 
leged to send them a preacher : but till the Spirit of 
God be poured out, no power can introduce to them the 
gospel : they live in Austria, and while the present 
government exists; no preacher will be admitted. But 
how puny would this resistance be, if the arm of the 
Lord should awake. 

'^ Last week we dined with a Dutch lady, who, in con* 
sequence of attending our Sabbath services, seems much 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 165 

disposed to improve opportunities of firiendly converse 
with us, and to show us marked attention. She gave 
the most elegant entertainment I ever saw of the kind. 
The only carriage we could hire was a small basket 
' wagon' of the peasants, with two seats strapped across 
the centre, in which six of us sat, drawn by one horse 
affixed to one side of a pole, just like a carriage being 
conveyed to the coach-maker'*s for repair. In this 
concern, with a spirited horse, that was gallopping and 
neighing all the way, we pelted down these tremendous 
hills, over great stones, some as big as a roller, and over 
water channels which cross the road, so that it was with 
the greatest difficulty we could keep in the 'wagon.' 
The driver kept continually turning round, to see 
whether any of the wheels were coming oflF, or his fare 
shaken out. Between laughing and jolting, during two 
long miles, I was well nigh ill when I arrived, but I 
soon recovered. The table was covered with elegant 
ornaments, arranged in various devices, and the food 
sent round in one dish at a time, prepared for every one 
to help himself— fourteen courses served in the most 
tafiteful style, and of the most delicate and delicious 
flavour, were handed to us — of most of which I tasted. 
Because we were known to love music, a band greeted 
us stationed in a marquee in the garden, where it ought 
always to be at dinner parties, or in an adjoining room, 
that conversation may not be prevented, and the head- 
ache occasioned by its noise. The intelligence of the 
maiden lady who thus distinguished us, was as inte- 
resting as her entertainment. We really meet with so 



166 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

miLcli attention and kindness, that we are qnite amazed, 
nor can we conceive why we are thus selected from the 
three hundred visitors. Oh, that the respect which is 
paid to our religious views, may be the means of winning 
them to search for themselves the grounds of those 
views. My dear husband has adopted this plan with 
one of these ladies, who thinks the world and the church 
are not to be divided : she knows a few words of 
English, but wishing to learn some whole sentences, he 
has written for her passages of Scripture, such as, ' If 
any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and 
take up his cross daily and follow me." — ' If any man will 
be the friend of the world, he is the enemy of Gk)d.'-^ 
* Ye cannot serve God and mammon." — * If any man love 
the world, the love of the Father is not in him.* It 
may be that the Spirit of God may apply these his own 
words to the heart, and that one lady be the means of 
drawing others to Him. 

" Our means of usefulness are very small, partly from 
the stiff prejudices which these people possess in favour 
of the pleasures of the world, calling more frequently 
for argument than for conversation on personal religion ; 
as they assert that they enjoy communion with God in 
the Sunday ball-room, more than in the quiet of the 
closet, which makes them sleepy. Oh, what sad reason- 
ing this is ! Husband called on a nice old Austrian, 
holding a high official situation, and otherwise a remark- 
ably intelligent man, and in the course of conversation 
quoted the 4th verse of the twenty-third Psalm, * Yea, 
though I walk through the valley of the shadow of 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN, 167 

death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me, thy rod 
and thy staff they comfort me' — ^he immediately said, 
' Dear me, what beautiful sentiments — ^whose words are 
those ? Byron^s V ' Can you believe that such dreadful 
ignorance could exist ? How sweet will be the land of 
Bibles and ordinances after this benighted country I' 

" You will be pleased to hear that at last two addi- 
tional Christians have found their way to Grafenberg. 
Though I do not believe in the views which distinguish 
them, yet as they hold all the great doctrines of the 
gospel, differ only in comparatively minor things, and. 
seem eminently pious, I rejoice to see them, and to find 
some one to help me to heaven. They are, I. fear, a little; 
too stiff to win the irreligious : they disapprove of music, 
and already the remark has been made that they look 
so melancholy. I believe the Christian who indulges 
in worldly amusements, which are inconsistent with his 
devotedness to Christ, will never win a sinner to the. 
Saviour ; but on the other hand, entire separation from, 
association with the ordinary and intelligent conver- 
sation of worldly persons, in the circumstances under, 
which all are placed, as one family at Grafenberg, is 
rather likely to prejudice the mind against religion as 
a gloomy thing. I think Grafenberg, a most difficult, 
place for a Christian to live in. A half-hearted Chris- 
tian brings reproach upon his profession, and on the 
cause of Christ ; a very stiff separatist from all inter- 
course with any but the people of God, brings reproach 
in another way. Happy, indeed, is he, who shall be 
strengthened to adorn the doctrines he professes, and 



168 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

to recommend them to the world, while conscience is 
uncontaminated/' 

At no period of her history did her piety glow with 
more heavenly fervour than at Grafenberg. Denied the 
public means of grace, and wanting time and privacy 
in her dwelling which home afforded her, she neverthe- 
less found opportunities to feed her lamp with oil, and 
to go forth and meet the Bridegroom. Often has her 
husband watched her steps to the beautiful mount which 
she so graphically describes, and seen her ascend it, like 
Moses, to plead with God, as a man with his friend, for 
him and his. Sweet indeed were her communings with 
God on that hill — mighty her wrestlings for her classes 
and the church. It is no exaggeration to assert, that 
when her husband met her in the high road after these 
exercises, to accompany her to the saloon to breakfast, 
the expression of that communion remained on her coun- 
tenance, and her first greetings shewed that her mind 
was full of love and of God. During the entire period 
she remained at Grafenberg, she was not kept in the 
house above a single day by rain : the little which fell 
came chiefly in the night, or descended in brief showers, 
and the sun so speedily dried the earth, that her visits to 
her favourite oratoire were only twice interrupted. By 
the extracts which follow, the reader will see how that 
communion with heaven sanctified her correspondence, 
and has left instructive lessons for survivors : — 

" At six in the morning, I go with my Bible to a 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 169 

most lovely spot, the summit of one of the lesser moun- 
tains, where no one is seen so early ; surrounded with 
a perfect carpet of most beautiful wild flowers, the 
yariety of which increases every day ; the water rolling 
below, which, though scarcely visible, is to be heard far 
away — ^here is my closet, where I have the happiest 
moments in the day. I have consecrated it to this use, 
and wish to go there only for the purpose of communion 
with God. The wild cistus which abounds here, is 
peculiarly suitable to my lovely hill — ^it turns directly 
to the sun, and when he withdraws his beams, closes 
entirely. May I but imitate this dear little flower, the 
numerous blossoms of which so prominently turn to this 
glorious orb, that I cannot but be powerfully taught by 
it, to keep my eyes fixed on the great Sun of Righteous- 
ness, to make Him my life, my joy, my all in all, and 
when He withdraws, to close my eyes and heart to every 
other, until He returns. 

'' It is sweet to feel, that though not less than a 
thousand miles separate us from our most deeply-loved 
friends at Surrey, we meet in spirit, day by day, at the 
same throne, whence even in heathen Austria, the 
meanest suppliant may draw treasures of grace, beyond 
all we can ask or think, and we may even mutually 
procure blessings thence for each other. This has 
greatly cheered my heart many times, while it has 
yearned over the multitudes of precious souls in this 
place, who, in the midst of the most striking displays of 
the Divine power, both in the beauties of nature, which 
are grand indeed, and in the recovery of the most hope- 

I 



170 » MEMOIB OF HBS. SHEBMAIT. 

less snffereis, by the jtidicioiis application of the simplest 
and most abundant of His gifts to ns, dtber deny 
His existence, or utterly forget it, and live regard- 
less of their obligations to Him. It is sweet here to 
belieye, that God is present, as with them in London 
— ^that herey answers to the far-distant prayer may de- 
scend, and perhaps even mercies may be in reserve for 
this remote land, through their supplications, in happy, 
dear England. My heart has been able to cast away 
many a load, since I have been here, by telling it to 
that heavenly visitant. Why do I love Him so little, 
and serve Him so miserably ? How unaccountable it is 
to me, that when I compare with himself, his favour 
and service eveiy thing I can think of, all appears 
perfectly insignificant, and my spirit glows to realize 
its rich hopes and possessions ; yet my mind, not my 
hearty is so much engaged with worldly trifles, and 
things for which it has really no taste or enjoyment ! 
I am not obliged to be so occupied mentally, and I deli- 
berately reject all relish for them, yet there they.are : — 
trifles, worthless and unprofitable, fill the mind that 
belongs to God. When at dear Surrey, there is too much 
work in the service of God to allow the same occupation 
of mind in such trifles, yet even there it exists^^-» tyrant, 
striving to reign. 

" We almost envy those who are privileged to meet 
with the excellent of the earth, at the May Meetings : 
and have traced them day by day, as well as we could, 
without a Missionary Magazine. We are two hours 
and twenty minutes before you in time, which spoils 



MEMOIR OF MES. SHERMAN. 171 

many a meeting in spirit with you ; but as far as possible, 
we endeavour to remember and follow those hallowed 
occupations, which seem for the time to lessen the dis- 
tance which separates us from each other. 

" How sweet will it be to behold Him with more than 
faith's feeble eye, to see Him as He is, and be able to 
bear the sight, all weakness, impurity, and sin for ever 
put away, and temptation dreaded no more : who can 
conceive what it must be to be like Christ ! Our most 
exalted conception of the heavenly world, and of the 
spirits redeemed by blood, are so defective and fall so far 
short of the reality ; that we must be satisfied with that 
full assurance of Him who cannot overstate the truth, 
that ' eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have 
entered into the heart of man, the things which Ood 
hath prepared for them that love him.' May but this 
bright portion be ours — then the now painful steps 
which our Father appoints to bring us thither, will be 
looked back upon with joy, and a full conviction be 
possessed, which we are too slow to believe, that ' He led 
us by the right way to that blest city.' 

" The numerous springs around us which so abun- 
dantly contribute to the healing of the sick, remind us 
of that living water which is to be ^ in us, a well of 
water springing up into everlasting life.' And who can 
be blest with such a supply, and not feel, if he con- 
stantly drink it, his spiritual maladies getting daily 
weaker and weaker. Tell P., these springs often bring 
him before me, as he is longing for the water of life, 
and when I think with an aching heart what bitter 

I 2 



172 HEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

things he is writing against himself, the promise comes: 
with force, 'Blessed are they that hunger and thirst 
after righteonsness for they shall be filled.' 

" The eclipse of the sun, on the 8th July, was with 
us, extremely solemn and beautiful. The peasants shook 
their heads, and went to church to count their beads, 
and utter additional paternosters. I shall not easily 
forget it, nor the intense cold which accompanied it. It 
was over here a little before seven in the morning, when 
I adjourned to my own dear hill, my oratoire, hoping to 
learn some useful lessons from reflecting on the cold, 
which the concealment of the sun occasions, when some 
great object intervenes between it and the earth. And,, 
is it not the same, when a far inferior object places itself 
between the soul and the Sun of Righteousness ? Oh, 
that the intervening body and the consequent coldnesses, 
were as quickly withdrawn from the mind, as from the 
earth ; and oh, that their recurrence were as rare !" 

To her mamma, she thus expresses the sanctified 
feelings of a Christian mother, on behalf of her child, 
and gives a playful description of scenes which delighted 
her maternal imagination. 

" I hope my sweet babe continues good, and is learn- 
ing plenty of hymns and Scripture, to repeat to her 
half-forgotten mamma. I thought of her, little darling, 
yesterday, Whit Monday, which, four years ago, was 
her birthday, when it fell on the 4th of June. Dear 
little lamb, how can I be sufficiently thankful to you for. 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 173 

your great Idndness in taking charge of her during my 
long absence. ! that she may rev^ard it, by consecrating 
her infant heart to his service^ who has placed her in 
that highly-favoured land where God is known and 
servedj instead of in Austria. How much wisdom I 
need to direct her as she grows up. Theory, I think 
less and less of alone, still theory has its advantages ; 
some good may be extracted, irom occupying the mind 
with the subject. But although general principles are 
adapted to all children, the peculiar tempers and habits 
of many, require a mode of treatment for which no pre- 
cise rules can be laid down. Shall I not see her much 
grown ? Precious pet — ^there is no child here so sweet 
as she I May she but be as good in God's eyes, through 
the righteousness of Christ, and the sanctifying influences 
of his blessed Spirit, as she is dear to her mother s heart. 
" I cannot believe that so long a time remains before 
I can see my beloved ones at home. I dream of home, 
and awake refreshed with the airy vision ; some antici- 
pations prove to be only imaginary, but L trust this will 
be of a &r different character; a real, happy, and abiding 
interview, till we remove to a world of pure and con^ 
stant joy, where separation and sorrow are unknown. 
I picture to myself my little pet coming in after dinner, 
to sit by her own dear grandmamma, and to look at 
her own dear grandpapa ; receiving from him occasional 
reproofs, most wise and judicious, for native bluntness 
of manner, and lack of that politeness which is so great 
an ornament to a young lady. I imagine I see papa 
with his glass of wine half-emptied, rising from a beau- 



174 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

tif ul dish of strawberries^ wi(h great indignation against 
the noisy and stinging remarks of the wasp tribe, who 
come to investigate the state of the fruit this season. 
I (perhaps presumptuously) imagine myself the subject 
of occasional conversation, while you lean back in your 
chair, to quiet a rebellious stomach that refuses to per- 
form its duties of digestion as it ought; your hands 
locked, with each fore-finger in union above its com- 
panions, like Snowdon above its sister-mountains ; the 
feet on the stool, while Tooty, now and then, gives an 
expressive look of approbation at the strawberries, which 
her kind grandmamma has given, and if her wise judg- 
ment prohibit an additional supply, trotting round to 
grandpapa, climbing his knee, and saying, ' I want to 
^peak in yojir ear." Precious group ! would I could see 
and kiss thee now ; but I must not wish time away, to 
bring me to you again ; the responsibility of its employ- 
ment is too great to allow us to wish it to slip by. Oh, 
that I could here employ -it for God more ! " 

Much of the grief occasioned by cessation from 
pastoral labours, and of the despondency into which an 
active mind is apt to fall, when long unemployed, were 
greatly relieved by good tidings of the state of the flock, 
and by fraternal Christian epistles, full of sympathy and 
love, which the Elders of the Church sent to cheer their 
minister. This consolation was, of course, shared by 
an affectionate wife, 

" We have good news, indeed, from Surrqr ; the 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 175 

affection of the people for their pastor seems to grow 
with his absence, and calls for lively gratitude to Him, 
who has granted such unmerited goodness and mercy. 
What can we render to the Lord for all his goodness 
to us! How little we feel our obligations! How 
feeble and utterly inadequate are ouf returns to Him ! 
This lovely spot is not the place for the promotion of 
piety ; though I trust we have been kept from all visible 
worldly conformity ; perhaps there is less danger here, 
than when we mix with the worldly religioibs. For 
myself, I think I can say I view the precious truths of 
the gospel with a joy I never knew before ; the founda- 
tion of my hope seems so immoveable, so worthy the 
trust of an immortal soul ; and as conversation elicits 
the infidel views of one after the other, ^feel lost in 
amazement, that such worms as we should have been 
brought into the glorious light of the gospel, and enabled 
' to lay hold on eternal life." " 

The last public service in the cottage, at which a 
farewell was taken of the congregation to which her 
husband had ministered, and the tribute of affection 
they gave him at parting is thus stated : — 

" Last Sunday, July 17th, expecting to leave Grafen- 
berg, on Friday next, my husband took his leave of the 
little motley congregation. At the conclusion of the 

service, Mr. B rose, and with much feeling, said 

that he was convinced he was uttering the sentiment of 
all, when he expressed his gratitude for the invaluable 



176 HEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAK. 

services Mr. S. had rendered, hy acceding to their re- 
quest, and conducting worship among them with so 
much propriety and acceptance. Many other expressions 
of kindness and affection fell from his lips, which, as 
they came from one who hdd such different sentiments 
from those which he had been accustomed to hear on 
these occasions, were very grateful. Most wept at sepa- 
rating. Even old Mr. L was much affected. This 

was the more interesting, from the circumstance that 

the B s and the S s were the only professedly 

pious persons present. 

" A public dinner, the best that can be procured, i^ 
to be given us at our departure, and every token of re- 
spect that can be shown, they intend to manifest. This 
is very grat^Jying, but very astonishing to us. Why we 
are treated so above the rest continually, we cannot 
ima^ne : we only wish we could requite their kindness 
with those solid blessings which should ever memorialize 
us. It may be that the dew from the Lord shall yet fall 
on the seed sown, and cause all error to be renounced. 

" On Friday, July 29th, the public dinner was given 
to us, which was preceded by a deputation to my good 
husband, vdth a document signed by his little congrega-r 
tion, couched in the most gratefrd terms for his services. 
Nothing could be more pleasant than the banquet^ — ^it 
was given in the large room of a summer-house, belong- 
ing to Priesnitz, on the summit of one of the hills, and 
commanding a magnificent prospect. The room was deco- 
rated with festoons of wild flowers and branches of trees, 
and the provisions were both ample and elegant. Mr. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 177 

B , who presided, made a short but pretty speech, on 

the pleasure they had derived from our society, and the 
benefitswhich they hoped would result from the services of 
the Sabbath, and concluded by wishing us, in the name of 
the whole company, a safe and successful tour to our be- 
loved home. This called up my husband, and in a speech 
of great feeling, and seriousness ; he reminded them of 
the responsibilities of the past, and of our again meeting 
to give an account of all our instructions and privileges. 
After a few Mthfiil remarks, delivered in a playful 
manner, on the timidity of some who came to that feast', 
but through fear of the police, had kept away from the 
Sabbath service, he concluded by most affectionately 
urging them to bear in mind the solemn truths, which, 
in great feebleness, he had urged upon their attention. 
I hope the last appeal was not without *its gracious 
effect. When he alluded to the marriage supper of the 
Lamb, and expressed his earnest desire in the warmest 
and tenderest tones, that all might partake of that 
feast, and p ontinue in the worship and service of the 
Redeemer for ever, all were affected, and seemed to 
respond a hearty Amen.'' 



1 3 



CHAPTER VIII. 

JOURNEY FROM GRAFEKBERa THROUGH THE TYROL 
AND SWITZERLAND TO ENGLAND. 

There was but one serious drawback to the joy Mrs. 
Sherman experienced in leaving Grafenberg ; her husband 
was returning to his important chai^, with his health 
perfectly restored and her own greatly improved ; but 
Selina was left behind, with the hope that a longer stay 
there would give tone and strength to her system. The 
following statement of the reasons which induced her 
parents to leave her at Grafenberg, is extracted from a 
sketch of her character by her father, which has been 
previously presented to the public. 

^^ Her constitution was healthful and robust till the 
age of three years, but from that period shp exhibited 
symptoms of great weakness. To her sainted mother, 
she was an object of much solicitude and affection ; 
while her quietude, patience, and cheerfulness at that 
tender age endeared her to all who knew her. When 
about eight years old, she was supposed to have an 
affection of the spine, for which she lay in a horizontal 
position for nine months without moving, under the care 
of Dr. Harrison. The treatment, however, appeared to 
increase her general debility, and when she was again 
permitted to walk, it was with greater difficulty and 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 179 

feebleness than before. During the time of her resi- 
dence at school, where every considerate and maternal 
attention was paid by her preceptress to the state of her 
health, she had frequent attacks of indisposition, which 
created great fears that she would not arrive at maturity. 
Her flow of animal spirits, the bloom on her cheek, and 
her natural reserve on all subjects relating to herself, 
prevented many from discerning her weakness and fre- 
quent suflFering. They were rarely the subject of com- 
plaint even to her sister, or to those most endeared to 
her. She was anxious to accompany us to Grafenberg, 
and make the experiment of the efficacy of the water- 
cure on her debilitated frame. In a short time, the 
beneficial effects became visible, her strength increased 
so much, that she walked regularly, three times a-day, up 
and down a steep hill, about three-quarters of a mile 
long, besides other walks, with comparative ease 5 and we 
fondly hoped that we should see her return home in the 
plenitude of health. About a fortnight before we left 
Grafenberg, she said with great anxiety and affection, 
* I think, dear papa, if you would permit me to remain 
here a few months longer, I should get quite well ; my 
recovery is progressing so fast, that it seems a pity to 
leave when you do.' We remonstiated with her on her 
request, showed her the difficulties to which she would 
be subject, the anxieties we should feel about her at 
such a distance from home, and especially, the impossi- 
bility of coming to her, if she should be ill or dying ; 
but with a cheerfulness and calmness not easily forgotten, 
she replied, ' papa, you know very few persons die 



180 HEMOTB OF HBS. SHERMAN. 

here, and from my evident improvement under the sys- 
tem, it is not likely that I shall be worse, or die at Orti* 
fenberg. I doubt not some Christian friends would let 
me live with them — I shall give them little trouble and 
require but little attention/ We expressed astonish**- 
ment at her courage, especially as she was an ardent 
lover of home and of her parents ; but with tears stand- 
ing in her eyes, and a look that awoke our strongest 
sympathy, she said, ' Yes, but health is very precious, 
and what sacrifice should I not make for it/ Finding 
her so intent upon it, aflFection for her welfare would not 
allow us at once to deny her ; but we told her that wq 
would think and pray over it. In the meantime, M, 
Priesnitz was consulted, who confirmed her views, by 
assuring us, that he had no doubt firom the improve-i 
ment she had oiade, three months longer would effect a 
perfect cure. At the same time, two dear Christian 
friends, the Rev. Alexander Stewart and his devoted 
wife, voluntarily offered to take charge of her as their 
own daughter, and to bring her home with them when 
they returned to England, which they expected would 
be about the middle of Octdber, The providence of God 
seemed to smile upon her proposal — ^to remove difficulties 
and to answer prayer — and after a few days of hesitation, 
wfe gave our consent. When it was communicated to 
her, she threw her arms round her father's neck — ^pre- 
cious child ! — and said, * Thank you, oh ! thank you, 
dear papa, a thousand times for your kindness and the 
sacrifices you are willing to make for me.' She wrote 
home to hei* sister and to the nurse who had had charge 



KEMOIB OF MRS. SHEHMAlT. ISl 

of her from an early age, expressing her joy that she had 
permission to remain, and her hope and confidence that 
she should return as strong as any of them. With 
emotions, in which hope predominated, we kissed her 
•sweet lips, — ^little imagining that it was the last time 
that token of affection would be given/' 

It seemed necessary in justice to Mrs. Sherman to recite 
these particulars, without which, her future reference to the 
circumstance of her daughter's remaining at Grafenberg, 
would be scarcely understood. Her memorial of the 
events of the journey will now describe the moments of 
departure, and her subsequent movements, till her arrival 
at home. 

Monday morning, August 2nd, — "We took our leave 
of Grafenbei^— dear Grafenberg, the scene of so much, 
and such varied interest. At six o'clock, I went to my 
little hill for the last time with deep emotion. I can 
never forget that sweet spot, and seem to realize what 
Jacob felt, when he remembered Bethel, as the place 
where God answered hiin in the day of his distress. At 
seven o'clock, we breakfasted in the cottage ; and after 
family devotion, in which our precious Selina was spe- 
cially commended to God, we invited the landlord and 
his family to come in, and receive some parting tokens 
of our regard for their attentions. My dear husband, at 
my request, undertook the pleasant task of presenting 
our gifts, and addressing to each a few sentences of 
spiritual advice. Our kind friend, Mrs. E., acted as inter- 
preter. To the youngest daughter, he gave a gown — to 
the eldest a shawj — to the son a coat — and to the father a 



182 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAl^. 

pair of boots — then taking up the German Bible, in which 
jthe mother had been accustomed to read, he addressed the 
old lady to the following eflFect : — * This precious book, 
which you have often returned with regret, we purchased 
to read occasionally ourselves, but principally, that it 
might show you the way of salvation. It tells you how 
Christ, by his death on the Cross, made one sacrifice for 
sin, and that if you depend on that atonement, it will 
save you from all guilt, without penance, or the mass, 
or any ceremony whatever. Our parting words to you 
aare, *' Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall 
be saved." Examine that book for yourself; pray to 
God for the gift of the Holy Spirit, to enable you to 
understand its contents; never part with it as long as 
you live, whatever the priest may threaten, and then 
leave it to your children, as the richest legacy you can 
bestow. We present you^ Mrs. Schubert, with God's 
own book.' With an inexpressible look of astonish- 
ment, she took the Bible, exclaiming, ' Is this for me ? 
Am I to keep it as my own V * Yes,' he replied, ' it is 
a gift to you, Mrs. Schubert, and when you die, your 
eldest child is to have it.' She immediately pressed it 
to her lips, and kissed it repeatedly, while the tears 
streamed down her face. Then laying it quickly on the 
table, she sprang forward, threw her arms round my 
husband's neck, kissed both his cheeks, and in tones 
of gratitude that would have melted any heart, said, 
* Thank you ! — thank you ! the beautiful book ! 
The priest take it from me ! No — he shall have my 
life first!' Though somewhat amused with the inci* 



HEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 183 

dent, the scene quite overcame us, especially my precious 
SeKna, and I could not help praying that we might 
hear something good of that Bible. 

" Before nine o'clock, our rustic abode was filled with 
our kind neighbours and several of the peasants, who 
<5ame to bid us farewell. It rained heavily as we entered 
the carriage. One of the many who surrounded us, a 
Eoman Catholic nobleman, said, ' the weeping heavens 
were an emblem of their feelings at o«r departure.' We 
drove to our dear friend's, the clergyman, who was too 
ill to come to us. His rapid decrease of strength, within 
the last four days, intimated too plainly the impossi- 
bility of his reaching England. Yet he talked with the 
greatest cheerfulness of visiting us and his brother in 
London, at the end of September. God grant he may at 
least live to reach Guernsey ! We shall in all probability 
never meet again till we unite with the redeemed around 
the throne of God. We were accompanied on our journey 
by our friend Mr. B., whose kindness, on all occasions, 
has been very marked, but who, lady like, kept us wait- 
ing for him an hour at least 

^' I had an aching heart in leaving my dear child 
behind, so far from me ; but she was under the care of 
praying friends, and, above all, in the hands of our 
Heavenly Father, whose providence directed her stay. 
Many petitions have ascended that this circumstance 
may issue in her conversion to God. The roads were 
very heavy, but having a strong carriage and three fat 
hors^ abreast, we travelled pleasantly, though not 
rapidly. At Hansdorf, we dined, and rested our horses. 



] 84 HEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAlf 

then proceeded through lovely scenery to MiddletH, 
which we reached when all were asleep^ the place per* 
fectly dark, with the exception of a tiny lamp, which 
directed the weary traveller to the inn ; we drove over a 
pile of stones which almost overturned ns, but providen- 
tially, the horses were soon set straight, and in a little 
time, a half-dressed, half-asleep waiter, opened the gates 
for our admission, and awoke, as far as he could, the 
cook. We were very hungry, but our chief wants were 
supplied by a dish of cold venison and cherries. My 
throat was much swollen, and notwithstanding the efforts 
of my kind and attentive husband, I was almost starved, 
for neither e^ nor milk could be procured, and as the 
fires were all extinguished, nothing could be prepared 
which I could swallow. At one o'clock, we started for 
Olmiitz, in pouring rain, where we arrived at six, and 
had just time to get into the train, but none for break- 
fast. We entered Vienna about twelve. 

" Notwithstanding our state of starvation, we were 
detained nearly an hour at the Custom House, while our 
luggage was searched and our persons felt. Poor Mr. B* 
lifas fined eight shillings for bringing with him four 
letters, one of introduction to a gentleman at Vienna, 
and three for an Englishman, which arrived after he 
had left Grafenberg ; though the seals were broken, and 
all had come by their own post, he had to submit to this 
shameful fine. We had no idea of any scrutiny in 
passing from one part of Austria to another. At last 
our luggage was put into a jiacre^ a hackney caleshe, 
the driver of which, though dirty, was so exceedingly 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. l8S 

fine, that you might have supposed him dressed in the 
deserted livery that decks our sheriffs' carriages. The 
three-cornered coloneFs hat, and richly laced dress, ill 
becomes one who earns his fortune by driving cattle. 

" We took up our quarters in the Stadt London, an 
exceedingly pleasant hotel, and in a short time, were 
presented with an excellent dinner of several varieties, 
for which we paid a very moderate sum. Vienna, the 
capital of Austria, and the imperial city, contains above 
350,000 inhabitants, and in form, resembles a spider'ft 
web, all the streets tending to a centre near the Cathe*- 
draL The old part of the city, contrary to most capitals^ 
is the most fashionable. The streets are narrow, and ad 
there is no pavement, you run the risk of having your 
toes smashed by the carriage wheels, which seem to be 
generally driven at a smart pace. Like the houses in 
Scotland, many are very lofty, and let out in stories, 
one of which often contains two or three dwellings. 
Some of the shops are very splendid, and distinguished 
by signs painted by talented artists. The Cathedral is 
a lofty and imposing Gothic building, and the tower, 
with its buttresses and arches, a wonderful work of art, 
with which I was greatly charmed. The interior is 
gloomy, but the richly painted glass, elegant sculptures, 
and vast proportions, render the coup d'ml very im- 
posing. It contains a marble monument of the Emperor 
Frederick, ornamented with 240 figures and forty coats 
of arms, the production of an artist at Strasburg. 

" Our chief attraction was the great work of Canova, 
a monument erected to the memoiy of the Archduchess 



186 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

Christina of Saxe Teschen, in the chnrch of the Angus- 
tines. Russel thus describes it : — 'A pyramid* of 
greyish marble, twenty-eight feet high, and connected 
by two broad steps with a long and solid base, is placed 
against the wall of the chnrch. In the centre is an open- 
ing, representing the entrance of the funeral vault, and 
two melancholy groups are slowly ascending towards it. 
The first, consists of Virtue, bearing the urn which con- 
tains the ashes of the deceased, to be deposited in the tomb,* 
and by her side are twin little girls, carrying torches, to 
illuminate the gloomy sepulchre. Behind them. Bene- 
volence ascends the steps, supporting an old man, who 
seems scarcely able to totter along, so rapidly is he sink^- 
ing beneath age, infirmity, and grief. A child accom- 
panies him, folding its little hands, and hanging down 
its head in infantine sorrow. On the other side, couches 
a melancholy Lion, and beside him a desponding Genius, 
:— over the door of the vault, is a medallion of the Arch- 
duchess, held up by Happiness, and opposite, a Genius 
on the wing presents to her the palm of triumph. The 
figure of the old man, whom Benevolence supports to 
the grave of his benefactress, is exquisite ; his limbs 
actually seem to totter, and the muscles of his face to 
quiver with agitation. The composition is a most ele- 
gant one, — ^pure and chaste throughout' 

" The Capuchin Church is interesting, only as con- 
taining the burial vault of the imperial family. A 
Capuchin brother shows, by torch light, a heap of 
seventy metal coffins. The library is very remarkable, 
both for the extent of its books and manuscripts. It 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 187 

owes its origin to the private collection formed by the 
Emperor Frederick III., 1440, and has been increased 
by successive acquisitions of later Austrian sovereigns, 
to 300,000 volumes, and 16,000 manuscripts. It was 
thrown open to the public by Charles VI. A tablet of 
bronze, on which is engraved a Roman act of parlia- 
ment, forbidding Bacchanalian ceremonies, dated in the 
year of Rome, 567, or b.c, 186, interested us teeto- 
talers. 

"In summer, after six o'clock in the evening, the 
whole population of Vienna seem to resort to the elegant 
cafes on the Volks-garten — ^the respectable of both sexes, 
as well as the poorer classes. Small tables, in vast 
numbers, are placed in the open air, which are occupied 
by crowds who take their cofFee, ices, or supper, and 
Hsten to an excellent band of music. For admittance, a 
few kreutzers only are paid, and refreshments are fur- 
nished at most reasonable prices. A pious and intelli- 
gent friend assured uS; that in these gardens innocent 
recreation was blended with amusement. He bore testi- 
mony that on two occasions on which he had been 
present, nothing transpired within his view, that was 
not in unison with the strictest propriety. The first 
evening, he heard the band of Lanner, the rival of 
Strauss — the next evening, the band of Strauss played ; 
the first was lovely — ^the latter perfect. It was a cheap 
and rational entertainment, and he wished England 
could adopt similar methods of cultivating a taste for 
manly amusements and rational pleasures, which might 



188 HEMOIfi OF MBS. SHEBMAlT. 

break off the population from grosser delights. But she 
has greater and nobler than these — ^we will not sigh for 
the blade^ while we possess the full com in the ear. 

" At one o'clock, Friday, the 5th of August, we 
started from Vienna for Linz, in a carriage, which 
accompanied the Eilwagen, without luggage, and with 
two genteel young men as companions. Through the 
night, we travelled in perfect silence, broken only by the 
sound of changing horses, and of knocking off our drag 
from the wheel, to which it dung with provoking tena- 
city every time it was used. At noon, we reached 
Linz, hot and weary, and found most agreeable accom- 
modations at the Goldner Lowe. 

^'Linz is beautiful for situation, commanding, espe*^ 
cially in its immediate vicinity, most extensive and 
picturesque view& In the evening, we ascended a flight 
of steps, to a path which led to the summit of a hill, 
near Jagermeyer's (xarden, from whence a prospect of 
surpassing beauty is obtained; you see the snow-clad 
chain of the Saltzburg and Styrian Alps, stretching 
southward as far as the eye can reach— the slu^sh 
Danube making many beauteous curves, and at some 
distance rolling through a narrow gorge, as it approaches 
the city — ^while the town, the round towers of the for- 
tifications, the citadel, and church, lie at your feet 
We spent the Sabbath there — and witnessed the de- 
basing mummeries of Popery in the church. May these 
buildings, now thronged with the ignorant and supersti* 
tious, ere long be crowded with listeners to the glorious 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 189 

gospel of salvation ! Eaxly in the morning, the streets 
were filled with old and young flocking to their churches, 
shaming not a little those who cannot attend an early 
prayer-meeting! I spent a very happy hour in the: 
evening, in communion with my unchanging Friend. 

" Monday at six o'clock, we started for lovely Gmiin- 
den, by a horse railroad, and when we had travelled 
about three-quarters of the way, left the conveyance, to 
walk half a mile and see the falls of the river Traun. 
They are forty-two feet in depth, dashing over many 
rocks, and rank among the most picturesque in Europe. 
The great fall is most overpowering in its appearance ; a 
body of foam whose spray soon makes the tsaveller toler- 
ably wet, even on the bridge above, adds greatly to the 
beauty of the scene. Its pale green waters contrasted 
with the dark green mountains around it ; the raging of 
the agitated stream on the fall side of the bridge, and 
the solemn stillness with which it passes to the other, 
side, would form a charming theme for a poet. Sud- 
denly the towering Traunstein appeared, rising above the 
clouds from the long valley of the Traun ; then the mag- 
nificent lake of Gmiinden, burst upon us, surrounded 
with mountains of every hue and form. Some say it 
exceeds the Italian lakes, in scenery. Our room at the 
Goldene Schiff faces the lake, and commands a splendid 
view. Beneath our windows is a lively scene, it is corn- 
market day, and in addition, the Queen of Saxony, Arch- 
duke and Duchess Charles and their suite are hourly 
expected. They are to breakfast at a house close by us, 
which is beautifully decorated for the occasion, with gar- 



190 MEMOIE OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

lands and flowers. They have jnst arrived, and we are 
to accompany them across the lake to Ebensee, on their 
way to IschL The steamer which is to convey them is 
an English specnlation, with an English captain."' 

'^ August Hh. — We had a delectable sail across the 
lake ; the boat was decorated with flowers, wreaths, and 
flags in honour of the Royal party, consisting of the 
Queen of Saxony, the Archduke Charles and his 
Duchess, twin-sister of the Queen, two chamberlains, 
and two maids of honour. An awning was placed over 
two tables, at one the Royal party sat, we at the other, 
with four English. Guns saluted them in different parts, 
producing an^nchanting echo ; and some girls in a boat 
serenaded them with songs sweetly sung. Every quarter 
of a mile brought us to finer scenery. At Ebensee, guns 
and a band awaited the party, the pleasures produced 
for them gratifying us equally, perhaps, more so. After 
examining a salt-house, we took a carriage for Ischl. 
A Catholic who was an astronomical professor and pas- 
teur, asked permission to join us ; he was a very in- 
teresting person, anxious to learn English, to whom we 
uttered a word about our Master. The road increased 
in beauty and interest as we advanced — smiling valleys — 
bare masses of rugged rock — mountains ornamented with 
trees to their summits, and the rolling Traun cheered 
us for many miles. At last Ischl burst upon us, in the 
distance, like a little white speck in the landscape. It 
has been converted from an insignificant village into a 
fashionable watering-place. The beauty of its situation 
can scarcely be surpassed. A circuitous path over^me 



MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 191 

hills led us to a most romantic walk ; there, in the dis-* 
tance were lofty mountains covered with eternal snows — 
here the richly cultivated valley with its undulating sur- 
fiwe, and the Traun winding its silvery waters ; over one 
pointed mountain the lunar crescent was rising— over 
another Venus was peeping, and seemed to invite the 
comparison between her own brilliant beauty, and that 
of the dark mountains above which she appeared. The 
little chapels in various lovely spots, reminded us that 
such scenes demanded devotional feelings — oh ! to be able 
from these great works of the Creator's hands to regard 
His yet greater work of Redemption ! We returned from 
our lovely walk while the bells were calling to vespers. 
The Casino was decorated with boughs and variegated 
lamps, formed by placing coloured paper, pricked with 
different patterns, round candles; the promenade was 
similarly illuminated, in honour of the royal party. 

" Royalty having attracted a great number of visitors, 
most of the carriages were hired, and we were told at 
our hotel that not one was to be had to convey us to 
Hallstadt. Almost in despair of seeing that lovely 
place of which we had read so much, we inquired at 
a little shop, where I took my parasol to be mended, 
whether it was possible to procure a conveyance. * 
yes," said the man, ' if you do not want a gay one 
— ^if such an one as that will do, (pointing to a basket 
carriage, with a seat for two, and room for a portion of 
luggage behind) I will manage to get you one.' This, 
though an unsightly, was really a comfortable carriage, 
and just adapted for the narrow and rough roads of the 



192 MEMOIB OF JiBS. SHEBMAK. 

Salzkammeigut, through which we were about to 
tzavel. He asked no more than eight shillings a day, 
for carriage, horse, and man, which we cheerfully agreed 
to give. The driver, a very civil creature, was seated 
on the. apron at our feet. He wore a green silk Tyrolese 
bat, ornamented with green satin ribbon, and a bunch 
of living flowers — ^a black silk cap beneath it, with a 
very long tail and tassel, which hung down behind, and 
seemed designed for a bell-pull. The other parts of his 
dress were similar to the Tyrolese. We drove the first 
evening to the Grundel See, a very beautiful lake, but 
not equal to Gmiinden — and put up at Aussee for the 
night. Our coachman was evidently the worse for the 
beer he had drunk. My dear husband, the next morn- 
ing, gave him a gentle reproof, which the poor man evi- 
dently felt, thanked him for it, and we had no more 
reason to complain. His astonishment, when we assured 
him that we had not touched intoxicating drink for nine 
or ten years, was unbounded, and till he inquired at 
the hotels if we took wine, (as he told us, at the close 
of our journey) he would not believe us. He promised 
to try to do without it. We gave him some German 
tracts, which he read at intervals, on our journey, and 
seemed impressed with a clearer view of salvation by 
Christ than he previously possessed. May God own the 
eflFort. 

" At five, we started for Hallstadt, and drove through 
a picturesque country, to Gosau Miihl, on the borders 
of its lake. Near this spot is an aqueduct, which unites 
two mountains, and conveys the salt from the mine at 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAHT. 193 

Ebensee to Rosenheim, near Vienna, a distance of fifty- 
six miles— after a walk of great beauty along it, we 
returned to the lake. To our Surprise, we found the 
village was accessible only by boats— the one into which 
we entered was the trunk of a long tree hollowed out, 
and though we questioned its safety, it glided deliciously 
over the dark and deep waters. Never can I forget this 
wonderful scene — ^the mountains seemed quite perpendi- 
cular, and as we approached the village, became higher 
and closer. From the 15th of November to the 2nd 
of February, the sun is never seen by the inhabitants. 
Clouds at times covered the lake, which added much to 
its beauty, and to our interest. The cottages seem 
attached to the rocks like swallows' nests, either built 
upon piers over the water, or pijed in tiers one above 
another, so that the chimney of one house is on a level 
with the threshold of another, and their inhabitants 
pass from house to house by steps cut in the stone, 
instead of streets and lanes. 

" From Hallstadt, we proceeded through a narrow and 
picturesque glen, by a lovely mountain pass, to jGkwsau, 
where splendid scenery awaited us. Its fruitful valley 
and pretty village terminate with the glaciers and 
aiguilles of the Dachstein, the highest of which exceed 
10,000 feet, and are embedded in snow and ice. While 
our horse rested, we hired a car — such a jolting one— 
and drove to its base, understanding that from thence we 
should obtain the finest view of the whole Salzkam- 
mergut, but we found this could only be had by climb- 
ing some thousand feet of the mountain, for which we 



194 HEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

had neither time nor strength ; the drive, however, 
amply repaid us. Additional interest was given to the 
beauties of the spot, by the fact, that out of a popula- 
tion of 1400 souls, 1200 of them are Protestants, who 
have preserved their faith and independence, notwith- 
standing all the efforts and persecutions of the Jesuits 
to drive them out. At last the Austrian Government 
was obliged to give them a place of worship. As sym- 
pathy is a language well understood, where German is 
unknown, we determined, on our return, to pay our 
respects to the pastor. We knocked at a door which 
opened into a large room, where a number of children of 
both sexes were assembled for school ; it was opened by 
an old man of benevolent countenance, whom we took 
for the minister. He soon directed us to the individual 
we sought, and his wife, a most interesting young 
couple. Our imperfect, and their good German, enabled 
us to spend a very happy half hour with them. They 
knew our old friend. Dr. Steinkopff, and several devoted 
labourers in Christ's vineyard, and took deep interest in 
the progress of the gospel. In such a secluded position, 
few visits are paid them, and ours seemed to be most 
gratefully acknowledged. At what a small sacrifice can 
we often comfort and rejoice others. 

" Much pleased with our visit, we started again for 
Abtenau, over a lovely but most fatiguing mountain 
pass. In many places, the road was formed by laying 
down small fir-trees — rather a jolting arrangement. 
We walked the greater part of the way up hill, to pleaee 
the horse — down hill, to please ourselves. At last we 



MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 195 

reached the hotel, where we almost lost our patience 
with the stupidity of the Eammermadchen, who fetched 
every article singly when we were anxious to go to bed ; 
but it is well to have patience exercised occasionally, 

" At five in the morning, 12th of August, with a dewy, 
cloudy atmosphere, we proceeded to GolUng, a lovely 
village, with a most splendid and elegant waterfall. 
The fall is 300 feet : it is said to originate in the 
Konigssee, which by road is distant thirty miles, and 
finds its way under the mountains to this spot ; others 
say it rises in the cavern, whence it issues with such 
power as to make for itself two natural b ridges in the 
rock. It falls from the cavern straight down in one 
huge stream, from thence over the rocks, which are 
covered with deep green moss, and forms an amphi- 
theatre of hundreds of single pipe-like droppings, besides 
two broad fiJls in the form of drapery. We hardly 
knew how to leave this enchanting spot. About eleven 
we started for Hallein, which we reached about one, and 
set off immediately to the salt mine. Two immense 
horses, like our dray-horses, attached to a light chaise, 
drew us up the mountain to the entrance of the mine. 
My husband was introduced by a man into one dressing- 
room, and I by a woman into another, where I was 
quickly bedecked with a pair of strong white trousers 
tied round the ankle, a jacket, a sort of leather apron 
behind, and a cloth cap. I could scarcely stand for 
laughing. Thus attired, I was led by my guide into a 
room full of men, among whom stood my unrecognized 
husband. He spoke to me before I knew him. He 

K 2 



I 



< 196 HEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

and the guide were provided with candles, and a thick 
glove to resist the friction of the rope by which we had 
occasionally to descend. We walked in solemn order 
through the narrow, cold, dark galleries, or rather pas- 
sages of the mine, occasionally stopping to look at the 
salt walls, some red, others white, and some in strata, 
like red and white marble. It seemed a novel thing to 
take a piece out of a wall and put it to the tongue, but 
so we did. After walking thus for a very long time, we 
came to the first shaft, a descent almost perpendicular 
of 350 feet, consisting of two narrow smooth pieces of 
wood, very much like the ladders to our brewers' drays, 
and a strong rope fixed from the top to the bottom. The 
man sat down on the wood with the rope under his arm, 
and told me to sit behind him with my arms tight round 
his neck, and a leg on each side of him, my husband 
behind, not attached to me. Thus, with candle in 
hand, we rapidly descended in a minute and a half At 
the second shaft, about 800 feet, my horse proceeded a 
little too fast for my dear husband. He saw our light 
so frightfully pourtraying the precipice and its depth, 
that his confidence forsook him, and he could not follow. 
He called aloud, but we heard not. When we arrived 
at the bottom, my guide gave me his candle, while he 
went in search of him. He soon descended with him, 
riding in the same style as I had done. We then came 
to a lake, forty feet long by thirty wide, and very deep, 
illuminated by two hundred candles, which, of course, 
reflected double, and entering a boat, were ferried across 
it. The sensation while crossing this illuminated cavern 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 197 

was perfectly indescribable ; the little splash of the oar 
on the nnrippled surface was the only noise heard, and, 
though not superstitious, I was glad to get out of it. 

" After a continuation of the same cold, solemn walk, 
interrupted only by an occasional miner digging out the 
precious treasure, or the passage of others with barrows 
wheeling it to the water, in which it is conveyed to the 
boiling and drying houses, we came to the bottom of the 
mine, where a new method of accelerating progress awaited 
us. We rode astride a sort of wooden horse, which runs 
on a tramway — with our candles in hand — one man 
drawing, and others pushing, at a swift pace, for about 
twenty minutes. The first glimpse of light from a great 
distance was singularly beautiful. The entrance to the 
mine appeared about the size of the smallest star, and 
gradually increased till we saw it twelve feet high. The 
point at which we emerged from it was so low in the 
valley, that we had to walk only a quarter of a mile to 
the hotel, where we eagerly dispatched what was set 
before us. As soon as we had dined, we started for 
Salzburg, through scenery by no means so interesting as 
before. The old castle, built by Archbishop Paris, and 
the scene of many conflicts, was a prominent object for 
a long distance ; and for three miles, we drove through 
an avenue of beautiful trees, which terminate only at 
the entrance to the town itself. 

" The ancient town of Salzburg is dull and deserted — 
the grass grows in the streets, and considering its popula- 
tion, above 1 2,000 inhabitants, does not impress you with 
activity or industry. The caetle was once the residence 



198 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

of the kingly archbishops, whose territory included a 
population of 200,000 souls. Here we saw the torture 
chamber^ where political offenders, and especially the 
poor Protestants, were raised by a rack to the roof, and 
then, with weights attached to their feet, suffered to fall 
through a trap-door, to a more horrible dungeon, into 
the arms of an iron figure, which, moved by machinery, 
either crushed or killed them at once. From the year 
1327 to 1332, as many as 30,000 Protestants were 
banished from their native land. The prospect from the 
tower of the Castle is superb. As we were passing the 
Cathedral last Sunday, we saw the people arranged in 
file at the door and in the aisle, and supposed some- 
thing extraordinary was expected. In a few moments 
the Archbishop appeared, preceded by priests in gorgeous 
dresses, carrying banners, &c. As soon as he entered, 
the people fell on their knees to receive his blessing. 
He dipped his fingers first in the holy water, and 
sprinkled it around. As he walked in solemn state up 
the aisle, he stretched out his hands from side to side 
VCTy gracefully, and dispensed his blessing. His cloth- 
ing was entirely of scarlet, and two priests bore his train. 
Four bishops and many priests followed. He was wel- 
comed with trumpets and drums ; when he reached the 
centre of the Cathedral, he knelt on a crimson cushion 
prepared for him, and crossed himself. He then pro- 
ceeded to his throne, where the operation of undressing 
and dressing him took place ; and really, any fine lady 
might have been pleased with the abundance of cambric, 
and. deep rich lace which decorated him. His mitre was 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHBRMAN. 199 

put on and taken off, I know not how many times. The 
bishops were yeiy beautifully attired, the same exchange 
of mitres took place with them. The young priests who 
waited on them, gave the impression of the most abject 
state of mind — ^they appeared like so many school-boys, 
who dreaded the rod, if they made a mistake. I was 
struck too with the want of cheerfulness in their counte- 
nances, and with the slavish aspect of every feature. The 
music and singing, with occasionally the chanting of a 
few words by the dignitaries, constituted all the audible 
worship : waving incense, bowing first to the altar, then 
to the bishop, and marching to three pictures, all the 
visile worship. The procession returned as it entered. 
Oh, what awful mockery ! surely heathenism is better. 
The sight itself as a mere pageant was extremely beau- 
tiful, but worship — ^there was no worship of Qod. The 
Archbishop appears a very intelligent and interesting 
man. He is the bosom friend of Count P., our firiend 
and fellow-lodger at Grafenberg, who gave us much of 
his interesting history and character. How can men of 
intelligence lend their powers to such a system of decep- 
tion and iniquity ! In the castle, we met an interesting 
youth, Mr. P., a native of Cologne, who spoke a little 
English, and was travelling for his health. We were 
mutually interested, and he wished to accompany us 
three days' journey. 

First day, Atigust I5th. — " We breakfasted at the 
Eonigssee, and went to the end of the lake in a trunk 
of a tree, hollowed out for a boat, with pieces of wood 
laid across for seats : amber, blue and green alternately 



^ . .^ 



200 MEMOTB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

predominated in these lovely waters. Smooth as they 
were to us, they once engulfed and entombed seventy 
persons, whom a sudden storm drove on the rocks. A 
cross indicates the spot. May the Saviour so humbly 
represented on it, be found to have immortalised them, 
in a better way, by applying his precious blood for their 
redemption, and thus giving them eternal life. The 
scenery of this lake is remarkably sublime, from the 
immense height of the mountains and their abrupt 
perpendicular form. We afterwards went to Berchtes- 
gardan, where we partook of an excellent dinner of the 
trout of the Ebnigssee, and the chamois venison of the 
surrounding Alps. Hither the King of Bavaria, comes 
every year to enjoy the sport of hunting these timid and 
beautiful animals; this mountain-district being their 
favourite resort. We proceeded to Reichenhall, and slept 
at a romantic inn, about a mile and a half from the 
town. From Reichenhall, the scenery is very beautiful, 
but from Unken to Waidringen, it becomes wild and 
grand beyond description. At Lofer, the valley con- 
tracts — the mountains come closer together — ^in many 
parts the road is cut through the rock, till you arrive at 
a narrow defile called Pass Strubb, which is the entrance 
to the Tyrol from Salzburg, and was formerly guarded 
by a tower and an archway. Here a painter might find 
plenty of fine subjects, but they are too numerous to 
crowd into any one canvass. 

" On the 16th, we arrived at St. Johann, and pushed 
on to Soil to sleep, where an interesting incident occurred. 
We had left the hotel, for a walk to a little chapel at the 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 201 

summit of a small conical hill, which commanded a most 
extensive and remarkable prospect. As we approached 
the hotel, the sound of voices in prayer, repeating a 
Litany, saluted our ear. A Tyrolese dog met us at the 
door, and seemed to invite us in to a large room, where 
were seen on their knees about thirty persons, consist- 
ing of the master, mistress, and servants of the house, 
with the labourers who had returned from their harvest 
work. One of them was leading the devotion, and all 
repeated after him. A maid arose, came to us, asked if 
we required any thing she could get for us, and on our 
answering no, she returned and resumed her position. 
Even the large dogs appeared accustomed to the service, 
and took their place and attitude with the servants. 
When prayer ceased, every one remained in silence about 
two minutes, then crossing themselves, they arose and 
commenced their suppers. We could not but hope that 
even here, where the Bible is little known, and the light 
of the precious gospel darkened by superstitious cere- 
monies, God has his secret ones who hold communion 
with him. Throughout the Tyrol, there is more devotion 
and greater independence of character, than in any of 
the Catholic countries we have seen. May Jesus Christ 
soon visit that glorious land with the light of life. 

" On the 17th, we passed through Worgel, Schwatz, 
and Hall to Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol. The 
situation is unique. Mountains, some of which are 8000 
feet high, surround the town and seem to overhang it. 
The view from the bridge which crosses the Kiver Inn 
(from both of which the town takes its name,) embraces 

K 3 



202 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAK. 

the fertile valley — ^the lofty mountains — ^the picturesque 
town, and the celebrated Martinswand, and presents an 
assemblage of beauties which, it is said, no other town 
in Europe can rival Certainly it is superbly grand. 

'^ The Franciscan church was an object of great inte- 
rest to us. It contains the tomb of Maximilian L, who 
spent large sums of money in its erection, yet was not 
permitted to rest there. The rich marble sarcophagus 
stands in the centre of the church, and supports the 
figure of Maximilian, kneeling with his face towards 
the altar. It has twenty-four bas-reliefs, about twenty- 
four inches by eighteen, set in its sides, sculptured in 
Carrara marble, as carefully finished and as beautiful as 
the carving of an Italian cameo. The grouping of the 
figures is very skilful, and the splendour of the ancient 
costume is exhibited with wonderful effect. They repre- 
sent the principal events of the monarch's life. Those 
marked No. 9, representing his victory over the Turks 
in Croatia, and No. 12, the marriage of his son Philip 
with Joanna of Arragon — are masterpieces. The sarco- 
phagus is guarded by twenty-eight figures, in bronze, of 
colossal size, fourteen ranging on the side of each aisle, 
representing the most distinguished persons of his time, 
and dressed in the armour and costume of the sixteenth 
century. They present a most imposing historical spec- 
tacle, and for their elaborate workmanship take a high 
place in the school of art. 

" At the table d'hote we were recognized by the Rev. 
F. C, and his friend, a nephew of the Marquis of C, 
who invited us to join them in our journey into Switzer- 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHBBMAK. 203 

land. We agreed to meet at Feldkirch. Onr road oyer 
the pass of the Arlberg, made by Joseph IL, was the most 
awfully sublime I ever saw, especially from Landek. For 
two hours and a half we were ascending, till we were many 
thousand feet above the river, whose roaring sounded 
inexpressibly solemn among the rocks and mountains 
below. Tall glaciers, foaming waterfalls, and the marks 
of the tremendous mountain torrents, which are con- 
tinually occurring, meet the eye on every side. Two car- 
riages can occasionally pass, but generally there is only 
room for one between the perpendicular or projecting cliflfe 
and the precipice below : broad stones are placed here and 
there, to prevent liability to fall over. When we began 
to descend, two wheels were locked, and we rattled down 
the declivity at railway pace. The continual serpentine 
road down the mountain threatened, in my timid mind, 
our overbalancing at every turn, and dashing into the 
torrents below. I am told that this is nothing to what 
I must witness in Switzerland. In the midst of our 
rapid descent, we were arrested by seeing one of the 
wheels of a companion-carriage lying in the road, and 
three wheels supporting it at some distance further ; 
happily it was not overturned. Four fat travellers stood 
by, looking unutterable things. When I saw that no 
harm was done, I really felt relieved that we were 
stopped, and had time to pluck up a little courage before 
we proceeded. All set to work to repair the vehicle, 
but we were detained nearly three hours. 

''Some distance from the spot where the accident 
happened, lived a peasant who had often seen on the 



204 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAK. 

mountains the bodies of those who had perished in the 
snow, partly devoured by birds of prey. He determined 
with his little earnings to erect a place of shelter for the 
traveller. By the help of God and St. Christopher, as he 
said, he completed it, and procured the assistance of 
many princes to support it when finished. He had the 
happiness, before his death, of thus being the means 
of saving and sheltering in his Hospice, at least fifty 
persons, who had nearly lost their lives when discovered. 
I was reminded of the eternal shelter in Immanuel from 
everlasting destruction. 

" We reached Feldkirch about three in the morning, 
and found the only good hotel quite full. We were 
compelled, at this unseasonable hour, to seek shelter at 
a filthy inn, where the half-asleep chambermaid was 
long in preparing our dirty room to receive us. In the 
morning we removed to the hotel, some parties having 
vacated their apartments since our arrival. Mr. G. and 
Mr. L. arrived late on Saturday evening. The head- 
dress of the women is singular and amusing — ^a sort of 
helmet of gold and black wire — with a frill round the 
neck like a target, without any approach to taste or 
elegance. In this gloomy, sleepy town we passed the 
Sabbath : the Rev. Mr. C. read the Litany, and my 
dear husband gave a little address from ' Unto you 
therefore which believe He is precious,^ Mr. C. evi- 
dently deeply interested. Before our little service, we 
went to the principal church, but the congregation was 
so large, we could not reach even the doors. In the 
afternoon we took a lovely walk together in the woods. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 205 

and came down a precipitous way to the valley. We 
' talked of the things which happened at Jerusalem/ — 
on the dangers of travelling excitement, in drawing 
away the heart from spiritual objects, and on the neces- 
sity of a spirit of greater dependence and prayer. It 
was truly a profitable conversation. 

" On Monday morning, we started with our good 
companions for the vale of Thusis, through Bagaz, in 
a curious carriage, to the baths of PfefiFers, a most 
remarkable, and till last year, an almost inaccessible 
place. It is supposed that the little river Tamina, 
which rises in a neighbouring glacier, and falls over 
rocks here, has, in the course of centuries by its simple 
force, worn the rocks away, and made a channel for 
itself, in some places 600 feet deep, but only a few feet 
across. A huntsman, in pursuit of a chamois, was sur- 
prised to observe steam issuing from this narrow defile, 
and on tracing it, discovered a hot spring, in this cold 
spot. The monks of an adjoining Franciscan monas- 
tery took advantage of the circumstance so accidentally 
discovered, and erected miserable places, which they 
called baths, for the sick, who were let down from the 
summit in a basket, by ropes and pullies. The monas- 
tery has been dissolved, and the baths have fallen into 
the hands of some persons, who have made a road to 
them by blasting the rocks. We went, expecting to 
descend in some awful manner, but were not a little 
delighted to find that this accommodating mode of access 
had been very recently accomplished. Our guide led us 
to the entrance of the ravine of the Tamina, the sides of 



206 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAX. 

which, at some places, approach each other within a few 
feet, and further np, entirely dose, so that the river 
appears to flow out of a chasm in a cavern. A shelf of 
two planks, and in some places of only one, supported 
by niches cut in the perpendicular rock, or by iron 
rods, with a frail handrail, is the only pathway for a 
distance of nearly a quarter of a mile — some hun- 
dred feet above your head, the rocks overhang, and 
form a vaulted roof, separated only by a few inches, 
which let in the light of heaven, threatening every in- 
stant to crush you — ^forty feet beneath, the roaring tor- 
rent rushes with tremendous fury — ^the planks on which 
you tread tremble at every step, the cold, chilly atmo- 
sphere makes your very flesh quiver, and the whole scene 
gives an impression of horror and danger such as I never 
experienced. We tasted the water at the fountain, 
which was little more than tepid, but so much heat and 
steam came from the spring, that we were glad to retire 
from it to the cold chasm through which we had passed, 
and return to the bath-house. It is not nicely fitted up. 
Englishmen who look for comfort, will scarcely find it 
in this solitary den. One night's rest, or a noontide 
visit like ours, will quite satisfy them. Yet no one 
who passes near, should omit to see Pfeffers, which cer- 
tainly is one of the most extraordinary places in Europe. 
An author somewhere says, ' it is one of the very few 
spots I have seen where no disappointment can arise 
from previous description." We returned to Ragaz to 
dinner, after which we started with three horses to 
Coire, the capital of the Grisons, in which canton the 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 207 

Romansch language, a vile corruption of the Latin, is 
spoken. The town has nothing extraordinary to note, 
except that we found comfortable sleeping-quarters at 
the Weisses Kreutz. 

" In the morning, we started for the Via Mala, and 
passed the house at Reichenau, where Louis Philippe, 
the present King of the French, became teacher of his- 
tory, mathematics, and French, in the school of M. Jost. 
What a marvellous change I The valley of the Rhine, 
from Bichenau, abounds in castles, which cover almost 
every rock, and exhibits sad proofs of the ravages of the 
torrent NoUa, which rises in one of the mountains, and 
pours 'its waters into the Rhine. After heavy rain, it 
rushes down, carrying rocks, trees, and everything in 
its course, producing desolating inundations. Above 
Thusis, commences the Via Mala, which extends about 
four miles, and for sublimity and grandeur, is considered 
superior to any defile in Switzerland. I believe any 
human description would fall short of its wonders ; it 
must be seen to be understood. Conceive precipices 
rising on each side the roaring torrent, in several places 
not less than 1500 feet high, nor more than thirty feet 
apart — ^near the middle bridge, the rocks on one side 
overhang those on the other — as you look over the 
bridge, the water is 400 feet below, and reduced to a 
rivulet in appearance, but boils and foams from its com- 
pression within such narrow limits. The magnificent 
road, constructed by the engineer Pocobelli, is carried 
by a tunnel, 216 feet long, through projecting portions 
of hard rock ; in some parts, it is gained by blasting 



208 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

a shelf in the side of the perpendicular mountain, at 
the hase of which the Rhine washes its way, and in 
others, is not wide enough for more than one car- 
riage to pass. So fresh does the rent seem, that the 
edges of the rocks are sharp, as if some earthquake 
had lately occasioned it, the action of the atmosphere 
for centuries having produced little or no effect upon it. 
It is a glorious scene, full of grandeur, sublimity, and 
verdure, on which the eye may gaze with delight and awe, 
exchanging wonders at every turn. We were very loth 
to quit the spot ; yet I would rather see these wonders 
occasionally, than live near them. We took a luncheon 
at Spliigen, near the source of the Rhine. The glacier 
in which it rises descends almost into the valley, so cold 
and desolate is its birth-place — ^from thence it runs like 
a little^ rivulet along the valleys to which it gives its 
name, receives supplies from numberless cataracts, and 
in the Via Mala, descends in thundering torrents, occa- 
sionally overwhelming trees, bridges, houses, rocks, in its 
impetuous course, and at last becomes the noble river 
which bears the merchandize of many lands throughout 
Europe. What great events spring from trifling causes ! 
" We left the pass of the Spliigen, and took the Ber- 
nardin. The mountain is about 8000 feet high, but 
the road into Italy is so gradual, that our postilion 
trotted quickly down, without dragging the wheel, and 
turned the comers of the zigzags with incredible skill ; 
but we thought a little slower pace would have been 
wiser, and certainly would have spared my nerves. The 
whole of the curves and angles of the road lie before 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 209 

you, and the view into Italy is most superb, especially 
as we saw it to more advantage, in consequence of a 
stwm which was lowering in the distance, while we were 
riding in sunshine. Descending into the yalley, we 
passed through the village of Misocco, where chesnut 
and walnut-trees of majestic size abounded in fruit. 
The contrast was very striking between the barren snow- 
dad mountains, by which a few hours ago we stood 
shivering, and the scorching valleys where the vines are 
trained across the road, and the tempting clusters hang 
over the heads of the thirsty travellers. A beautiful 
and graceful cascade falls from the top of a rock, close 
to the road, not far from Leggia, well worth gazing at. 
When not very far from Belinzona, a singular noise 
aroused us ; it proved to be one of the travelling bags, 
which was recreant, and tried to run away — a few 
moments more would have liberated it — it was already 
knocking against the wheel. After a quarter of an 
hour's trouble and delay, all was set right, and we 
entered Bellinzona, fatigued with our ride, and with the 
sight of the glories of nature through which we had 



" Bellinzona is a dirty town, but we had a clean room 
at the Aquila d'Oro. Its three castles, though in ruins, 
are picturesque ; the view from the Castello Grande is 
the finest, and well repays a walk. The storm visited 
us in the night, and left a rainy morning. At five we 
started for St. Gothard, through the lovely vale of 
Ticino. They compelled us to take four horses to the 
carriage from Faido. We passed through Dazio Grande, 



210 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

wluch interested us much ; it seems a cleft in a moun- 
tain^ a mile in length, and very narrow. The carriage 
road winds its way through it, supported by arches suid 
terraces, and crosses the river thrice on bridges ; the 
whole must have cost an immense sum, and is exceed- 
ingly picturesque. From Airolo we began the real 
ascent, by a series of zigzag terraces, which display very 
skilful engineering, and are not so exceedingly sharp as 
on the Bemardin. The summit of the pass is a scene 
of desolation — ^the snow, sleet, and thick clouds which 
gathered around us, almost threatened to wash away our 
love of roaming. We sheltered ourselves for a short 
time at the Hospice, a massive and capacious house of 
refuge, where travellers may be accommodated as at an 
inn, and then commenced the descent, which was rapidly 
and safely performed, almost without a drag, through 
Hospital to Andermatt, where we relished an excellent 
supper of the red trout caught in the Oberalp-See, which 
are reputed to be the finest in the world. Of that I 
am not a judge, but they were, I can testify, delicious. 
Here we slept, and found it exceedingly cold, though in 
a burning autumn." 

August 25th. — " A peculiarly interesting part of our 
journey now commenced. After leaving Andermatt, we 
soon entered the pastoral vale of TJrseren, and were 
scarcely permitted to admire its verdure, before we were 
conducted by the road to a tunnel 180 feet long, and 
about seventeen feet high, cut through the solid rock. 
Formerly, this projecting rock forbad all passage, and 
a shelf of boards was suspended by chains to its sides, 



"mm 



I 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 211 

which was passable only on foot, and exposed to the 

spray of the roaring Beass. As you emerge from the i 

tunnel, the Devil's Bridge appears in the midst of the 

wildest and sternest scenery. The Beuss rises in a lake 

near the summit of the St. Gothard, and, by a succession ^ 

of cataracts to this bridge, falls nearly 2500 feet. One J 

of them, a short distance from it, drives the torrent 

through as savage a gorge as can well be imagined. J 

Over this terrific abyss, at a height of seventy feet, two ^ 

bridges are thrown, one an ancient structure of fragile J 

appearance, for the passage of mules — the other, a 

modem and more solid building, for carriages. We stood T 

on the latter for a short time, amazed and bewildered by c 

these magnificent works of God, rendered easy of access | 

by the ingenuity and perseverance of man. There was | 

just rain enough, without mist, to give a sombre hue to t 

this awfully sublime spectacle, of which no words can f 

convey an adequate idea. Strange to say, this place has 

been the scene of numerous conflicts between the French, 

Austrians, and Bussians. In 1799, after the former f 

had blown up the bridge, the latter erected a temporary v 

one, by tying together planks and trees with their t 

officers' scarfs, by which the Bussian army, consisting % 

of 20,000 infantry and cavalry, passed over and pursued £ 

the French. If men will fight, the savage character of f 

this gloomy den seems more suited to the scenes of war, 

than peaceful, smiling, and inhabited valleys. ] 

" From the Devil's Bridge, we descended by zigzag 
terraces, skilfully constructed, to Schellinen, which is a 
narrow ravine of nearly three miles long, with Alpine /] 



e 



212 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHE&MAN. 

cliffii of granite, which seem almost to shut out the sun, 
where no verdure is seen^ and the Eeuss continues its 
fearful roar and dashing course. By the side of the 
road lies an enormous block of granite, which some 
storm has broken off, but which the people believe was 
dropped there by Satan, and have therefore given it the 
name of Teufelstein. As we passed on, the scenery 
became less awful, and in the valley the walnut and 
chesnut-trees shaded our patL At length we arrived 
at Altdorf, the village in which it is reported William 
Tell shot the apple from the head of his son. Two 
small statues in the square mark the spots where the 
courageous archer and his blindfolded boy stood. The 
tree on which Gessler's cap was hung, to which he bade 
the people do homage, perished, and a fountain has been 
substituted for it. At Fluellen, a small village, we took 
the steamer to Lucerne, and were much affected to see 
the number of cretins and goitred necks, supiposed to be 
produced by the malaria from the marshy ground at the 
entrance of the lake. 

" The lake of Lucerne is most enchanting, its form is 
that of a cross ; the lofty Pilatus, and the Righi, are two 
of its grand ornaments ; the snow-clad Alps of Schwytz 
and Engelberg, appear in sight; the splendid bay of 
Uri, adds to its beauty ; the chapel of William Tell, 
and other ornamental erections, here and there stud its 
banks, among the richest foliage; and the remarkably 
long, covered, and picturesque bridges, one of which is 
above 1000 feet in length, render it one of the finest and 
most interesting lakes in Switzerland. We arrived at 



mn 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 218 

the town of Lucerne at six o'clock, after a most de- 
lightful voyage just in time for dinner, which our keen 
appetites abundantly relished. 

" The morning being very lovely, we took the steamer 
to Weggis, where a horse was ready for us to ascend the 
Righi. In the course of one hour we were enveloped in 
clouds, and could see nothing except for a moment, 
when a little opening exhibited to us the sunny scene 
below. Supported by hope, we alternately rode and 
toiled for three hours, and at last reached the summit 
in a dense mist ; but as there is a bright side usually to 
the gloomiest picture, we resolved if possible, to wait till 
the sun should disperse the vapours. He most kindly 
favoured us beyond what we might have expected, first 
one side was for a few moments clear, then the curtain 
was drawn, and another was opened, till at last by 
incessant watching we caught almost the whole scene ; 
but the entire panorama which is so extraordinary we 
could not obtain. We counted nine lakes in the valleys — 
Zug, Zurich, and Lucerne, with their pure blue waters 
lay immediately below us — many towns and villages 
were scattered around, and mountains in every direction, 
whose ice-bound summits flittered in the sunbeams, 
as the clouds withdrew. Pilatus stood out most pro- 
minently, though we had no good opinion of him for 
deceiving us. When a fine day is in prospect the bald 
head of Pilatus wears a hat of clouds — he did so this 
morning, but I had scarcely mounted my steed to de- 
scend, when those inconvenient clouds formed a compact 
with their neighbours, and produced a terrible thunder- 



214 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

storm. For once we found to our cost he had made a 
mistake. The rain poured in torrents as we descended 
the mountain, and we gladly took shelter in a little 
Chalet at Eiissnacht, designed to protect the shepherds 
and their flocks from storms. The thunder among the 
mountains was most sublime. It passed from rock to 
rock, till it grew fainter and fainter — ^then increasing in 
sound, returned to the spot opposite to that from which 
the echo was first heard, thus taking the whole circle of 
echoing rocks. So may the gospel spread its glad tidings 
from heart to heart, and from shore to shore, till the 
whole world, hears its glorious sound and is filled with 
its blessed results ! 

" The next morning, our interesting companion, the 
Rev. F. C, who had contributed so much pleasure to 
our journey, left us with his friend, for Geneva — and 
after sending forward our luggage, we crossed the lake 
in a wherry for the Oberland. The boat took us to 
Alpnach — ^there I saw one of the hemp-pickers and 
learnt the art. She gave me a long lesson in the fac- 
tory on the use of hemp, but in a Patois that made 
it almost useless to my shallow comprehension. Here 
we took a guide and a little open carriage to the lakes 
of Samen and Lungem. The latter lake they have 
attempted to drain into lake Samen, and recover the 
land it occupies for cultivation. At present the de- 
posits from the lake, render the soil very barren,but it is 
expected that in a few years it will repay the cost and 
expense of this drainage. The lovely wooden cottages 
of Lungem, are so well finished that they would serve 



iriwn 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 215 

for models. The appearance of these cottages and their 
occupants differs most remarkably in different cantons. 
Vallais is one of the most wretched, and its inhabitants 
appear more like animals than immortal beings. Afber 
dinner we mounted our horses, with our carpet bags 
strapped on to the saddles, to cross the pass of the 
Brunig ; the view from it is not extensive, but extremely 
beautiful. The weather was not propitious till the 
closing hour of our journey, when the effect of the 
setting sun on the mountains was very splendid. The 
valley of the Hasli in which Meyringen is situated, 
opened upon us in all its beauty, tinged with the glories 
of the setting orb. On our descent we were much de- 
lighted with the song of a muleteer, who was return- 
ing to Lungem, and inviting the striking echo to rival 
him in melody. We reached Meyringen, about seven, 
Saturday night. Sunday was a most lovely day. The 
Protestant church was crowded, but the sermon did not 
appear to produce much impression. We met at dinner 
only three ladies, old maids, I fancy, who were travelling 
without the incumbrance of male society. 

" On Monday, the 29th, in the same travelling style, 
we started for the pass of the Grimsel, by Ober Hasli, 
the residence of Felix Neff, but we were not aware of 
this till several days afber. We breakfasted at Guttanen, 
and called on the pasteur, who was out ; his timid wife 
seemed much delighted at our sympathy, — we promised 
to call on our return, when the pasteur would probably 
be at home. The road to this place is very interesting, 
and combines rich and varied scenery — the Aar roaring 



216 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

through narrow clefts, valleys covered over with com 
and grass, mountain-sides clad with firs, rocks of all 
forms, and zigzag terraces, vary the prospect. A few 
miles brought us to the lovely cataract of the Aar, at 
Handec, the first we saw in Switzerland. The fall is 
more than one hundred feet, and so immense is the 
quantity of water, that it rushes down about thirty feet 
in one unbroken glassy sheet, where it is met at right 
angles by another stream, the Erlenbach, nearly as large, 
which comes roaring down the opposite mountain ; they 
mingle their waters in the dark and awful chasm be- 
neath, the depth of which is entirely concealed by the 
united foam of these two difierent coloured streams. 
We viewed it firom the little bridge above, and from the 
river beneath. When we had re-started about a minute, 
my dear husband experienced a most providential deli- 
verance : his horse slipped one of his feet between 
three large stones, which formed a small triangle, firom 
which he could not extricate it, and after plunging, fell, 
and threw him over his head, most remarkably, without 
any injury ; may such a deliverance lead to the inquiry, 
* for what purpose is my life preserved V Oh ! may it 
be for more unreserved consecration to the service and 
glory of Him who thus again renewed his gracious 
care. From this spot, the road became more and more 
desolate ; the ascent was often excessively steep, and 
formed of huge stones, like the broken staircase of a 
ruined tower. Down these stairs we so cleverly de- 
scended — my guide pulling my horse back by his tail — 
that even I felt no fear, and scarcely ever dismounted. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 217 

In some places, there was only just room on a narrow 
ledge, for the horse and guide to pass between the per-, 
pendicular rocks above, and a descent of many hundred 
feet to the torrent below. The avalanches had made a 
perfectly smooth and polished surface of rock, a quarter 
of a mile in width, and of much greater height. Over 
this difficult slop^ of stone, the horses had to tread with 
only a trifling protection from the declivity below ; one 
false step would have proved fatal; and though huge 
masses of fallen rocks often broke our path, they picked 
their way with surprising skill At last, the barking of 
a number of dogs, which are trained to espy the traveller 
from a distance, and guide him to the Hospice, intimated 
to us that our difficult journey was at an end. We 
soon discovered a most desolate-looking dwelling, whose 
low broad roof, thick walls, and deep sunk little win- 
dows, told too plainly the dangerous position it occupied. 
In the winter, one man alone remains there with dogs, 
and a large supply of cheese, that if a luckless traveller 
should reach so desolate a spot, he may find shelter. 
Five years since, it was entirely destroyed by an ava- 
lanche, when the poor man and his brute companions 
miraculously escaped by a doorway, through which he 
dug a passage in the snow. We waited a short time to 
rest the horses, and then proceeded to a higher eleva- 
tion, to view the glacier of the Rhone, our guide strongly 
recommending us not to descend the slippery path to it. 
The ascending road was still worse than before; tall 
poles were placed occasionally to mark the way, which 
the snow had concealed, but the view of this magnificent 

L 



218 MBMOIE OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

sea of ice repaid the labour. We returned in time for 
the table d'hote, at the Hospice, at seven o'clock, where 
we met eighteen respectable persons, ten of whom were 
English. Fatigue made rest truly welcome, and after 
a refreshing meal, we retired to our little dormitory 
—one of several small low rooms, like cabins, divided 
by wooden partitions, in which they make up twenty 
beds, and supply an abundance of warm covering suit- 
able for this cold and desolate region. Opposite to our 
window is a small lake of black water, in which nothing 
lives. 

" Neither Byron's pen nor Claude's pencil could 
give an adequate idea of the awful grandeur of this 
sublime scene — glaciers spread at your feet, covering a 
surface of many miles — speaks of mountains, sparkling 
with eternal snows (the Finster-Aarhom, the Shreck- 
horn, and others,) towering above in their purity and 
might — shivered rocks, which the avalanches have rent 
and broken, presenting their rugged sides, and threaten- 
ing to overwhelm you — ^roaring torrents, pouring down 
from the icy caverns with foaming fuiy — give an im- 
pression of the power which creates these wonders which 
can never be effaced. We seem to see in them the 
awful God ; but how refreshing it is to believe 

* This awfal God is ours, 
Our Father and our love.' 

How strange that we poor worms, as indeed we seemed, 
when standing by the massy mountains, may work for, 
and even with, such a glorious Being. I much enjoyed 
the thought that these are the great works of Him who 



MEMOIE OF MBS. SHERMAN. 219 

is indeed ' my Beloved/ and sometimes I can unhesi- 
tatingly say, ' my Friend/ What an hour must that be 
when the sinner shall call to such mountains to hide 
him from the presence of the Lord : but which, could 
they obey his entreaty, must fail to screen him from 
that all-penetrating eye. May we never know such a 
moment ; but though even the redeemed must tremble 
at the scenes of that day, may we, with them, tremble 
only as those who witness the shipwreck from the shore, 
while no danger can aj^roach them there. Surely, the 
mind that fully acquiesces in the judgments of that 
awful day must yet shudder to see beloved ones doomed 
to eternal separation from the only source of happiness 
and joy *; and one can hardly imagine the absence of 
every fear, even in a redeemed soul, when the sinner is 
condemned, and the redeemed one sees his own desert 
in that condemnation. I feel as if I could never be 
certain of my own safety till the judgment was over, 
and the separation of the righteous from the wicked 
unalterably complete. I could not see these rocks with- 
out the fearfcd thought, will any dear one of mine thus 
seek their useless aid in that day ? — shall I seek it ? 
Oh that we could so realize eternal things, as to live for 
eternity, making every thing bear on that state which 
may be so near to many of us ! 

" On the morning of the 30th, we prepared to re- 
turn to Meyringen, a journey worth repeating for its 
interest and grandeur. The 31st was a pouring day, 
and enabled us to write many letters and complete our 
journals. The 1st of September gave little promise, but 

L 2 



220 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

as it did not actually rain, we left Meyringen to cross the 
great Scheideck. The first object of attraction was the 
Reichenbach — ^it is a fine waterfall with several leaps — 
each having different and varied beauties. A further 
ascent brought us to the baths of Eosenlaui. The view 
near this spot is peculiarly charming : — ^firom a green pas- 
ture, like an English lawn^ on which chalets are pitched 
in various directions, you gain a prospect of the icy peaks 
of the Wellborn, the Wetterhom, and the Engelhomer, 
which are exceedingly picturesque. Between two of these 
mountains, the Wellhom and the Engelhomer, lies the 
glacier of the Eosenlaui. I mounted a chair, and was 
carried by two strong men up the ascent over a small 
bridge, which crossed a narrow but tremendously deep 
chasm, produced by the torrent of water from the glacier. 
A stone was thrown down on each side of the bridge, 
to give us an idea of the depth. On one side, it went 
directly to the torrent below ; on the other, it dashed 
from rock to rock, and was broken into many pieces 
before it reached the bottom. In the deep blue and 
transparently clear ice were formed a bridge, and a 
cave of exquisite beauty. The bridge was continually 
dripping as the ice slowly melted. With difficulty I 
mounted some steps which were cut in the glacier to 
enable us to enter the cave. We could not go far, as 
the heat of the sun's rays had produced a tremendous 
chasm, but it enabled us to see the immense depth of 
this icy mountain. At the entrance, it was probably 
about eighty feet, but here it appeared fathomless. We 
returned amazed at the wondrous scene, and delighted 



MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 221 

with its beauty. As we proceeded, we heard occasionally 
a noise like thunder, produced, as we supposed, by the 
falling of avalanches from the Wetterhom, but the 
dense cloud which now overhung the mountain pre- 
vented our seeing any thing beyond the base. As we 
attained the summit, a short-lived sunshine enabled 
us to see the extent and beauty of the valley through 
which we had passed ; but the moment we reached the 
other side, we were in a dense fog, through which nothing 
was visible. Occasionally a break in the clouds enabled 
us to catch a glimpse of the snowy Wetterhom. The 
descent was exceedingly steep and difficult, on account 
of the recent rain. We passed the upper glacier of 
Grindelwald, which comes down into the valley, and 
while we were standing near and looking at it, an enor- 
mous avalanche of ice, of some hundred tons, fell with a 
roaring noise, leaving a pure blue rock of crystal ; the 
magnitude of the pieces of ice compelled the torrent at 
the base of the glacier to find a new channel. We had 
been admiring its purity before this avalanche, but the 
new current ran through black mud, and the stream 
which was clear on one side, became black on the other, 
and urging in its course huge pieces of ice, whose blue 
and white strangely contrasted with the muddy waters 
which carried them away. We were reminded of the 
change in the soul, which came pure from the Hand 
that formed it ; but intercourse with the world having 
diverted it from its original channel, it carries on its 
now polluted stream many relics of former purity, which 
only make the contrast the greater, but do not purify it. 



222 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

*' We proceeded through lovely scenery and sunshine, 
to Grindelwald. The rain afterwards fell gently, and 
the snow-clad mountains by which we were closely sur- 
rounded, produced so cold an atmosphere that we wel- 
comed a good fire in our room. The morning's bright- 
ness gave us a splendid view from our window. Near 
the church door we observed a tombstone, which told 
the sad tale of a clei^yman of Savoy, who, in 1821, 
lost his life by falling down one of the crevices in the 
ice, some hundreds of feet deep. 

" At our hotel a very respectable young person, a 
niece of the proprietor, waited on us. Her aunt, a 
most intelligent woman, was training her for service, 
without permitting her to associate much with the ser- 
Tants. We were both interested in the simplicity of h^ 
manners and apparent piety, and discovered that she 
was one of fifteen orphans — ^necessitated by hsr circum- 
stances, to seek for a situation. I t»ked her if she 
would like to live in England ? Her sparkling eyes and 
ready, ' Oui, madame,' told the truth of her reply. 
During the evening, she made errands to attend to the 
fire, and to ask if we required anything, in order that 
she might urge her plea ' to live with so sympathising a 
lady.' At last, she introduced her aunt, who gave her 
an excellent character, interceded on her behalf, and re- 
ferred us to one uncle, who kept the principal hotel at 
Lauterbrunnen, and to another, who was an apothecary, 
at Unterseen : if they agreed, Susette was to meet us at 
Basle, and accompany us to London. When we left the 
hotel the next day, several of the young women who 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 223 

stood with Susette at the door, and watched our depar- 
ture on our horses, expressed a fervent wish that they 
could accompany her. We proceeded through the vil- 
lage, which is ornamented with some of the most pic- 
turesque wooden cottages in Switzerland. The forests 
of fir and the green pastures, form a charming contrast 
to the icy peaks and glaciers, and render the situation 
almost unique, even in Switzerland. The ascent to the 
Wengem Alp, was very steep and difficult, owing to the 
previous rain, which made it slippery, and to fallen rocks 
which are strewed in the path. To our left, stood the 
stumps of a whole forest of firs, which the avalanches 
had cut down. Three hours brought us to the rough 
little chalet on the summit — a more brilliant day never 
shone. Eight opposite to this spot stand in majestic 
splendour the Jungfrau, 13,748 feet above the sea, and 
11,000 above the valley, with all her glaciers — ^the Dent 
d' Argent, the Monch, the Great Giant, the Little Giant, 
and the noble Wetterhom ! Being high noon, the burn- 
ing sun exercised great influence on the Jungfrau — ^a 
noise like thunder reached the ear, and in a few seconds, 
blocks of ice, weighing many tons, rolled down the gullies 
of the mountain like a cataract ; in their fall they were 
shivered to pieces, and by the time they reached its base 
became white dust, which rose like a cloud of vapour. We 
had the gratification of witnessing no fewer than seven 
of these avalanches. At the table d'hote, we met many 
English, the provisions were better than could be ex- 
pected in a spot some miles from human habitation. 
" Our descent into Lauterbrunnen was very steep, but 



224 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

commanded a beautiful view of the contracted valley, 
which seems enclosed by a wall of limestone rocks. We 
passed the Staubbach, celebrated for its peculiar beauties 
as a waterfall. It is a small threadlike stream, which de- 
scends from a rock 800 feet in height in waving drapery, 
and is thought by some to resemble a lace veil. The re- 
sistance of the air reduces it to the smallest rain, before 
it reaches the eartL At the hotel kept by Susette's 
uncle, a sensible looking man, we left our horses and 
dismissed our guide. Our opinions of the orphan were 
confirmed by further conversation with him. Here we 
took a carriage to Interlachen, where we had apartments 
in the Jungfrau hotel, with the mountain in full sight. 
The evening was devoted to conversations at Unterseen 
with Susette's relatives and her pasteur, who all gave 
such testimonials of her general qualifications, and 
appeared so pleased with the prospect of her residence 
with us, that we hoped Providence had some gracious 
design in the unexpected connexion. The next morning 
we went by the side of the lake to Thun, instead of 
crossing it, as the steamer left at a late and inconvenient 
hour. Our coachman pointed out a cave, in which, he 
told us, one of our countrymen, St. Beatus, had lived, 
who ejected .from that solitary abode a dragon, by merely 
giving him notice to leave. I wish I ctuld eject the 
old dragon from my heart in a similar way. We exces- 
sively enjoyed our early ride, and breakfasted at the 
Hotel de Bellevue, in a garden commanding a fine view 
of the river Aar. The town is picturesquely situated, 
about a mile from the lake. From a terrace in the 



MBMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 225 

ancient church-yard, the lake seems encircled by distant 
Alps and glaciers, and its banks near the town are seen 
studded with villas and tasteful gardens. The little 
town was thronged with visitors, and had a most lively 
appearance ; the many-coloured costumes of the women 
from the various cantons, who were here to sell their 
produce, contributed not a little to the pleasure of the 
scene. 

" From hence we drove to Berne, through a very 
pleasing country, but not romantic. The Alps were in 
sight, forming the border of the landscape all the way, 
and an unclouded sun lighted them up, and made them 
sparkle with brilliance. Berne is seated on an elevated 
platform of land, 1600 feet above the sea, and is the 
capital of the largest Swiss canton. The Aar nearly 
encircles it, and adds greatly to the extreme beauty of 
its position. From the terrace, a most splendid view of 
the great chain of Bernese Alps is obtained. We counted 
fifteen snowy peaks and glaciers towering to the skies — 
a prospect of inconceivable beauty. The town derives its 
name from the Bear, because it is said its founder killed 
one of enormous size on the day he laid its foundations, 
and the inhabitants for several centuries have maintained 
living specimens at the public expense. We went to 
see these state prisoners in the Barengraben, and gave 
them our voluntary contribution of apples and cakes, 
for which they amused us iisith various gambols and 
grunts. The figures in the clock-tower, which stands 
in the principal thoroughfare, are amusing and curious. 
A few seconds before the hour, a little wooden cock 

L 3 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMA17. 

stmts out, crows twice, and flaps his wings ; another 
wooden figure strikes the hour on a bell, and imme- 
diately several bears march before a king seated on his 
throne, who accompanies every stroke on the bell by 
lowering his sceptre and opening his moutL The 
exterior of the Minster, especially the great west portal, 
where the Last Judgment is sculptured in relief, is 
worthy of minute examination. In the Museum, among 
many Alpine curiosities, such as the lammergeyer, the 
steinboch, the lynx of the Alps, and the unlovely cubs 
of bears, we saw stuffed the skin of the sagacious dog 
Barry, of St. Bernard, who saved as many as fifteen 
persons from perishing in the snow, and thought him 
better deserving of a niche in a temple of fame than 
many whose names are honoured, but whose lives have 
been spent in making wives widows, and children father- 
less. In Berne the females wear large black gauze 
wings, with dark dresses — ^not very bewitching. 

" Saturday afternoon, we started for Freyburg. Never 
could travellers be favoured with a more suitable atmo- 
sphere for gazing on the range of Alps, which, at a 
distance of some miles, skirt the prospect along the 
whole line of road. A glorious setting sun threw his 
rays obliquely on their virgin snows, which reflected 
them back in pink hues, and made us half wild with 
rapture at the celestial sight. Though not much dis- 
posed to weep at any time, I was quite overcome, and 
could only find vent for expression in tears of joy and 
gratitude to my God, who had made, for me, a sinner, 
such a beauteous world. 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 227 

" The entrance to Freyburg is singularly grand — ^the 
town suddenly bursts upon you from the winding road, 
which overlooks the valley, through which the river 
Saarine flows. A deep gorge lies between you and its 
ancient houses, battlements, and watch-towers, which is 
now crossed by two elegant suspension bridges, one of 
them above three hundred feet longer than the Menai. 
The view from the first bridge is romantic in the extreme 
'. — ^houses overhanging the precipices— embattled walls 
and fortifications, in irregular lines, on hill and dale — the 
river flowing 174 feet below, and cultivation and verdure 
ornamenting every spot of ground. The women wear 
large, circular, flapping straw hats, a neat boddice, and 
scarlet petticoats. The streets are narrow and dirty, 
and the population under the dominion of the Jesuits. 
Here we spent the Sabbath in private worship, and 
being the aimiversary of my dear husband's entrance on 
the onerous duties of Surrey Chapel, we surveyed the 
past with joy, and stimulated one another to courage for 
the future. It was a high day of spiritual enjoyment. 
I sought opportunities to drop a word to the maids, but 
prejudice and ignorance seemed to harden them against 
God. In the morning, however, we left the hotel in a 
char-£l-banc, with, I think and hope, a pious driver. I 
dropped a few remarks, which he caught up with great 
interest, and his desire seemed to be to do me good, by 
showing me the value of .true religion. May his wish 
be realized, and may we know it more and more by 
experience of its power. 

" We reached Lausanne in the afternoon, and walked 



228 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

to the Oathedral for the view, but found it inferior to 
that from our windows at the Hotel de Gibbon, which 
immediately overlooked the lake. As we wished to 
reach Chamouni soon, we took the steamer at Ouchy — 
passed the interesting castle of Chillon, but had not 
time to enter it, and at Villeneuve took a carriage to 
St. Maurice, and on to Martigny. It is a lovely and 
striking road — one part exhibited the signs of devasta- 
tion from an awful avalanche about two years since, 
supposed to have been caused by the bursting of a 
glacier — a whole village was destroyed, and a great 
extent of land covered with mud, stones, and ice. We 
slept at Martigny, a small town of no attractions. Its in- 
habitants are- dreadfully afficted with diseases produced 
by the stagnant overflowings of the Rhine and its tribu- 
taries. Ague, goitre, and cretinism, smite them with 
premature old age and deformity, which excite the sym- 
pathy of the traveller. In the morning we took a guide, 
and mounted our horses for Mont Blanc, a spot in this 
land of wonders I had longed to see. The pass of the 
Tete Noire was recommended to us, rather than that of 
the Col de Balme ; what the latter is I do not know, 
but the former exceeded all my expecta^tions. It differed 
from any thing we had before seen. Green pastures 
lead to the Col de Forclaz, through a forest, and the 
path descends again to cross the torrent issuing from 
the glacier of the Trient, and to enter its valley ; then 
ascending to the brow of a mountain covered with dark 
firs, the Tete Noire is attained. From this forest you 
emerge into a path which is cut by the side of a wild 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SnERMAN. 

ravine, many hundred feet deep, and some miles in 
length — it passes through a narrow and overhanging 
rock, and exhibits scenery of the most savage character, 
till you reach the Val Orsine. Thence you ascend to 
the summit of the pass, and descend a^n through a 
sterile gorge to the Vale of Chamouni. But this de- 
scription is most imperfect ; suffice it to say, whatever 
your imagination can picture of elegant waterfalls, roar- 
ing torrents, frightful gorges, gloomy forests, verdant 
valleys, aiguilles of ice, and mountains of snow, will fall 
short of the pass of the Tete Noire. Mont Blanc was 
full in sight, without a cloud, for three hours of our 
ride, and the various windings of our way up the Tete 
Noire enabled us to see point after point, and the ad- 
joining glaciers to great perfection. After a brief rest 
at the Hotel de Londres, we took a carriage to the 
Glacier du Bois, the source of the river Arveyron. The 
rubbish and stones accumulated over the plain by the 
moving of the glacier, and the overflowing of the stream, 
make the path from the spot at which the carriage 
stops exceedingly difficult. The vault whence the river 
issues is very beautiful, but not equally pure with the 
cave of Rosenlaui. It might be about fifty feet in height. 
" -At the table d'h6te we met several English, who 
were very merry and agreeable. The next morning was 
fine ; we started at half-past five, and breakfasted at 
the Pavilion on the Montanvert. We spent an hour in 
walking, and occasionally sliding over the Mer de Olace. 
It seems scarcely credible that this glacier is fifty-one 
miles in magnitude — ^its appearance at a distance is that 



2S0 HEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

of a plain of rough snow and ice, over which you could 
easily walk from end to end, but when you are on it, 
you find fissures of pure blue ice, in some parts, hundreds 
of feet in depth, and woe be to the traveller who slips 
in. We had no idea of the magnitude of the large 
crevices tiU we looked down them. This enormous mass 
moves, they say, about thirty feet in the course of the 
year. The objects around are very sublime and beautiful. 
Numerous aiguilles stand like sentinels of the various 
passes — small bilberry bushes adorn the banks, which 
slope towards the ice, the fruit of which we plucked and 
ate — ^and the particles of pure white snow sparkle like 
brilliants in the sunbeams. The whole appearance is 
much more heavenly than earthly, though its continued 
gradual movement occasions destruction and desolation, 
very unlike the results of heavenly deeds. Soon after 
we commenced our descent, a few drops of rain threatened 
disappointment to our pleasing anticipation of mounting 
the Flegfere. We met great numbers on their way up, 
and sorrowful was their disappointment, as the whole sea 
became covered with a mist, so that not an aiguille 
could be seen, or scarcely a foot before them. We had 
scarcely entered the hotel, before the rain descended in 
torrents, and continued the whole day. At the -table 
d'hote, much merriment was occasioned by the grotesque 
appearance of the visitors. Most of them had been 
drenched, and had no change of apparel. Some ladies 
went to bed till their garments were dried, and a few 
gentlemen were decked in the waiters' clothes, some too 
small, others too large. 



MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 231 

" The next morning was finer, but clouds overhung 
the Flegere, which we watched with much anxiety till 
two o'clock, when it was too late to attempt the ascent, 
and we started for St. Martin, on our way to Geneva. 
The first object which arrested us was the glacier of 
Bossons — after a fatiguing climb, we beheld the ice, which 
at a distance promised little interest, split into blocks of 
the most fantastic forms, pillars and pinnacles nearly 
one hundred feet high, of the most exquisite purity and 
deep blue. It amply repaid our visit. The afternoon 
became gloriously clear ; the scenery was grand and 
lovely ; Mont Blanc never appeared to us so lofty and 
majestic as from this whole road, and justified what 
Byron, I believe, so appropriately writes, — 

' Mont Blanc is the monarch of mountains, 

They crowned him long ago. 
On a throne of rocks, in a robe of clondsy 

With a diadem of snow.' 

Happily for us, he dispensed with his robes, and per- 
mitted us for nearly two days to see his unveiled and 
matchless beauties. We visited the baths of St. Gervais, 
situated in a beautiful gorge, with a lovely waterfall. 
The warm spring is much sought after by invalids, but 
its taste is most filthy. 

" The next morning brought heavy rain, and pre- 
vented our seeing the celebrated view of Mont Blanc 
from the bridge of St. Martin. There can scarcely be a 
more lovely ride, than from St. Martin, if the weather is 
favourable — the rain ceased only about an hour before 
we entered Geneva. At the Hotel des Bergues, we found 



232 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

the best accommodations, and what is most cheering to 
a traveller, a number of letters from home, bringing 
favourable intelligence. 

llth, Sunday, — " We went to Dr. Malan's church in 
the morning, and heard several persons deliver short 
addresses in French ; Mrs. Malan, and several of his 
family, welcomed us, but our dear friend, the Doctor, was 
at Brussels. In the afternoon, heard a sermon at the 
Cathedral, characterized, alas ! by unitarian theology. 
It is very aflFecting to see a pulpit where Calvin preached, 
and the reformers announced the glorious doctrines of 
the deity and atonement of Christ, occupied by men 
who substitute for them ' another gospel, which is not 
another." M. Merle D'Aubign6, was also from home, 
and our disappointment great. 

I2th, — " Started by steamer for Lausanne. The lake, 
which is fifty-five miles long, and six broad at its widest 
part, has many exquisite views, but we only saw it for 
an hour, when rain fell, and obscured the prospect of 
the Alps and vineyards. We slept at Yverdon, and 
crossed by steamer, the lake of Neuchatel, which was 
exceedingly rough and agitated. On our left, the chain 
of the Jura mountains was very pretty, but not equal to 
the Alps. The benevolent institutions, schools, public 
buildings, and good roads of Neuchatel, do much credit 
to the spirit of so small a town. From hence we drove 
to Biennes. Its pretty lake and island, on which 
Rousseau spent much time, when expelled from his 
native shores, he describes in far too glowing colours. 
The lake on one side, and continuous plantations of 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 233 

vines, whose rich clusters hung in yast profusion, made 
our ride very lovely. From Biennes we travelled by an 
agreeable carriage to Tavannes, through the lovely 
sceneiy of the Jura mountains and Miinster Thai. A 
natural arch, known to the Romans, many of whose 
names are yet extant, introduced to us the little village 
of Tavannes, in the vale below ; we were very glad to 
arrive at its clean little inn, as it was almost dark, 
and rather gloomy. 

" Next morning, at half-past five, we started for 
Basle. The first part of the Miinster Thai was exceed- 
ingly grand, commanding a view of the finest portion of 
the chain of the Jura. Arrived at Basle, September 
14th, where Susette and her brother met us. To our 
dismay, we learnt that her luggage had been forgotten by 
the conductor. The whole of the 16th we waited, hoping 
in vain for its arrival. Here we bought some excellent 
Swiss woodwork. The Cathedral is very ancient — ^it 
has no external beauty, being built of red sandstone, 
which exhibits the action of the atmosphere on its sur- 
face. Its interior is divided into three parts for worship 
—one is used for summer, another for winter, and a 
third for week services ; it contains a few objects of in- 
terest, such as the tombs of Ecolampadius and Erasmus. 
The terrace behind the Minster commands a noble view 
over the Rhine and the Black Forest. 

" 16th. — We left early for Strasburg, and breakfasted 
at St. Louis, where a pleasing old woman was stationed, 
to inform passengers how long they might wait. But 
my husband suspected this extraordinary politeness, and 



234 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHBRMAN. 

when she intimated that the bell which was ringing was 
only the first, and that it would give two more peals 
before the train started, he became alarmed, went imme- 
diately to secure our places, and happily was just in 
time to save the train. The boat for Manheim, down 
the Rhine, did not leave from Strasburg, but from a 
place some miles beyond it, so that we were disappointed 
in not seeing the interior of its splendid Cathedral. 
Our carriage stopped only a few minutes in front of 
it, allowing us time, however, to admire its wondrous 
window, which is higher than the spires of York 
Minster, and its ingenious fretwork stone spire, like the 
finest wrought iron. Through uninteresting scenery we 
came to Manheim, where we slept. 

'• The next morning, the fog detained us for nearly 
an hour on the river, but we arrived at Cologne on 
Saturday evening, and remained during the Sabbath. 
Mr. Major was preaching at the Lutheran Church, 
where my husband went, not knowing he was there. 
After service, he spent some time with us, and inte- 
rested us by tales of former days, when the gens d'armes 
attempted to seize him for preaching the gospel of Christ 
to the peasants, but they cleverly concealed him, and 
many were converted to Christ by his ministrations. 
We left for Rotterdam on Monday evening, in much 
rain — the boat was changed at Dusseldorf, and we had 
to scramble to secure berths in the cabin. I succeeded, 
but dear husband had to sit up all night, and could not 
sleep for the volubility of a lady, who talked incessantly. 
We arrived at Rotterdam on the evening of September 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAIT. 235 

21st, and sailed for our own beloved land on Wednes- 
day, at noon. The passengers in the 'Columbine' 
were very pleasant, almost all English. I slept on the 
sofa, in a room destined for the ladies, but was awoke 
by the yawning of a man who was lying under a table 
by my side. We had lovely weather, but were obliged 
to cast anchor for two hours and a half, in consequence 
of fog. At last I saw my own country, now dearer than 
ever. 

" My emotions when first I felt myself standing on 
English ground were indescribable. While waiting for 
the carriage, I would have written, if possible, the feel- 
ings of my heart, in adoring love, gratitude, and praise. 
My first step, afker shewing Susette the house, was to 
reconsecrate my all to the service of Him, who had pre- 
served us so graciously, and to seek that if the number 
of my dear husband's services must be abridged, his 
usefulness might be increased, by a more diligent im- 
provement of every opportunity to make known the 
unsearchable riches of Christ." 



CHAPTER IX. 

EVENTS DUEINQ THE YEARS 1842 — 1845. 

The expectation Mrs. Sherman indulged of seeing 
her " precious child Selina "" return in health, was 
ripened almost to certainty, by letters which she received 
after her arrival in England, announcing the progress 
made towards a strengthened and renovated constitu- 
tion. Selina's welfare for both worlds seemed bound up 
with her existence. She had witnessed the union of 
her eldest daughter with the Church of Christ, and her 
steady walk with God in the path of usefulness ; one 
thing seemed wanting to complete the happiness of 
home, for which she prayed and strove night and day, 
that the younger branches of the family might follow 
the example of their sister, and publicly decide for God. 
But the evidence of this glorious change in Selina, was 
not to be given in the way her parent had fondly hoped. 
Only six weeks had elapsed since her return from the 
Continent — she had resumed her duties with renewed 
energy, and every day expected to behold the face of 
her child, blooming with health. But alas ! instead of 
this, she received the following harrowing detail of her 
BuflFerings and death, from the pen of the dear friend, 
who, with his devoted wife, had acted towards her as 
the tenderest parents, and whose kindness awoke the 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 237 

liveliest gratitude in the bleeding hearts of her father 
and mother. It came by post, and was delivered to her 
while her husband was engaged in ministerial duties. 

« Freiwaldau, October 26«A, 1842. 

" My dear Friend, 
" You are, I doubt not, long ere this, in receipt of 
my former letter, and perhaps, also those which my 
wife has more recently sent. In those communications 
we represented the fond hopes which our hearts had 
cherished respecting dear Selina. Those hopes, I deeply 
lament to say, have all been sadly blighted, and mine 
is the solemn and poignant duty, to open to a father's 
heart, that your dear, dear child is now no more. She 
died here, on the night of Thursday last, the 20th 
instant. At half-past ten o'clock, her gentle spirit took 
its flight from the pangs and anguish of its suffering 
clay, I dare not doubt, to join the happy myriads that 
surround the throne — to be * absent from the body, but 
present with the Lord.' If. my feelings are rent with 
bitterness in conveying these melancholy tidings, what 
must be the sorrows of your own bereaved heart 
Already, dear friend and brother in Jesus our Lord, 
you have our deepest sympathy ; our tears and prayers 
mingle with yours before the throne of Grace. May 
the Lord of Love, who is very pitiful, and of tender 
mercy, sustain and comfort you, under the anguish of 
this heavy blow. My first impulse was to write to you 
immediately, but afterwards, I thought it better to delay 
it for a few days, until I could give you a satisfactory 



238 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

account of the funeral and other circumstances, which 
might relieve your mind from all anxiety as to subse- 
quent occurrences. 

" This day, in slow and solemn silence, we bore 
the cold remains of your beloved child to the grave, 
in the cemetery here ; all the English, except one, who 
could not get out, were present, in expression of their 
deep sympathy, also many Oermans. Indeed, the 
greatest kindness has been manifested by alL The 
whole of the solemn service was conducted in the most 
simple and impressive manner. As no body is allowed to 
be interred without the presence and offices either of a 
Roman Catholic priest, or a regularly ordained native 
Protestant minister, we sent for the Rev. Andreas Bathelt, 
who kindly came a distance of twenty English miles. The 
faneral took place at ten o'clock ; they met at our lodg- 
ings, where we sang a hymn, and I engaged in prayer, 
and spoke to those present on the sorrowful event. We 
then walked in solemn order to the grave, Mr. Smith 
and Mr. Ellis as chief mourners, twenty-one English, 
and a number of the gentry of various nations, together 
with a crowd of peasants, formed the procession. The 
bier was borne by eight youths of Freiwaldau, uncovered, 
wearing white gloves, and a branch of rosemary in their 
hair, according to the custom of the country. No feathers 
waved over her simple coffin — three chaplets of flowers 
alone decorated it. Little did she think, when she 
rambled among these luxuriant productions of the moun- 
tains, that they were shortly to accompany her to the 
tomb. At the grave, the pastor offered a prayer, and 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 289 

gave an interesting, plain address, easy to be under- 
stood, and likely to be profitable to the assembly. Those 
of ns who stood more immediately near, in the place of 
mourners, (though all were such indeed,) cast with our 
own hands the first clod of that cold clay which claims 
a kindred with mortality — then turned to wipe the big 
tear that gushed from many an eye, and to leave her to 
repose till the voice of our returning Saviour, and the 
trump of God, shall wake her ashes to immortality and 
bliss. 

" The arrival of dear Mr. Ellis on Saturday evening, 
was a great source of comfort to me, in the trying and 
responsible circumstances in which this mournful be- 
reavement had placed me. It was a consolation to 
meet one who so recently had seen you. But alas ! he 
came too late to witness the last and painful struggle 
of your dear and sweetly patient child. He bore tidings 
from the land, and home, and friends, she loved so truly 
and BO strongly, but that eye, now glazed in the dimness 
of death, was forbidden to gaze on the language of their 
love. On the very day of her death, she received two 
letters, one from her mamma, and one from her sister ; 
but she was unable to finish reading them, and laid 
them under her pillow, hoping to do so in the morning — 
but to her that morning never came. Although the 
fever of which we informed you had been subdued by 
the water treatment, yet the poor dear child never 
regained her strength; nor did the circulation ever 
recover its healthful tone. She was always cold, the 
weather was also very much against her, being generally 



240 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

cold and wet. When we had a fine day, we used to 
get her into the garden, and so feeble was she, that I 
often carried her down stairs in my own arms. Here 
she would sit in the sun, and the returning colour to 
her cheek, gave us strong hopes of a perfect recovery. 
She seemed for a week or two to gain decided ground, 
but still was in constant suffering from her crises. They 
appeared on all parts of her body, some of them large 
and deep, and discharging copiously. All this she 
endured with a sweet and unrepining patience, which 
must have been from a higher source than mere nature. 
Indeed, I never saw so beautiful an exhibition of un- 
complaining woe. The most that ever escaped her lips, 
was, ' What shall I do V although for many weeks she 
could not use her hands, in consequence of the fearful 
boils on them, yet she seemed to relish the little tender 
and nourishing bits which my dear wife prepared for, and 
fed her with, as an infant. This little oflBice of love 
my wife performed, until her own hands became infected 
fipom the constant dressing of the wounds. This quite 
disabled both her hands, and was accompanied with the 
most excruciating pain and suppuration — she is not able 
yet to use them. After this it was my privily to 
attend to the dear child's wants in those little matters. 
She never had even her lips wetted, without thanking 
us in the kindest manner, — and often did she kiss my 
dear wife's hands, and add — ' Dear Mrs. S., many a cup 
of cold water you have given me, the Lord will reward 
you for it all.' Her attachment to Mrs. S., was so great, 
that she could not bear her out of her sight for a moment. 



MEMOIR OP MBS. SHEBMAN. 241 

Three weeks ago, an enlargement of the gland under 
the right ear appeared, attended with great pain, and 
rendered her eventually unable to open her mouth, so as 
to masticate her food. We prepared it in the easiest 
form, like a pulp, but soon it became painful even to 
suck this from a teaspoon ; the swelling increased, with 
some variations, and about the beginning of last week, 
began to appear blue. Her appetite at this time very 
much failed. Still we apprehended no danger, nor did 
Priesnitz either, at least he did not say so. All this 
time, she was most restless, and could not sleep, save 
when wrapped in her wet sheet, and even then not well. 
About Tuesday, all her crises began to appear blue, 
and she complained that a blue swelling had made its 
appearance on her left arm, so that she could not lie 
on either side without pain ; and, therefore, used to sit 
all night in the arm chair, with her head resting on 
pillows before her, but still obtained little or no sleep. 
At this stage, Priesnitz felt alarm, though the most 
he ever said to us was, ' very ill.' He was extremely 
attentive, and came latterly twice a day to see her. 

" On Wednesday, Mrs. S., said to me, what a remark- 
able change has occurred in our Seliria's crises — they have 
become so lividly red ; yet this did not alarm us, as we 
had seen the most fearful crises of a similar hue, which 
soon after did well. But this was not all, on Tuesday, 
she began to bleed from the nose, though not in such 
quantity, as to be very remarkable. On Wednesday, 
she expectorated some clotted blood, which we supposed 
to have come merely from the nose. Her lips grew 

M 



242 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

wliite, and towards evening, her nose was pinched and 
her face evidently swollen. Until the afternoon of that 
day, we had not a serious apprehension, attributing every 
symptom to the eflfects of the cure, and still beUeving, 
that in the issue of the crises, health would be restored ; 
and fondly did we cherish (perhaps with a pardonable 
pride,) the hope of presenting your dear child to you, 
safe and sound. She had not the least idea of danger 
herself. If Priesnitz, apprehended death to be at hand, 
he kept it from us. Our ignorance of its near approach, 
has caused myself and my dear wife, many a bitter tear. 
He had told one of the women in attendance (we then 
had three,) to communicate his fear that she would not 
survive the night. This she did not, and thus were we 
kept in ignorance up to the fatal moment. I tended 
her that evening, my dear wife being unable, and, indeed, 
the last words the dear child said to her, as she kissed 
her cheek already clammy with the cold dew of approach- 
ing death, were, ' Ah ! I only wish I could do any thing 
for your fingers.' I saw her again at ten o'clock that 
night, to give her a little milk and water, and a bit of 
peach, and without apprehending death to be near, I 
said to her, when she was recounting her pains and 
anguish — * Oh ! my dear child, do you not know that if 
we could do, or think of any thing that could give you 
ease, we would do it — ^would I not hold you up in my 
arms all night, if that would mitigate a single pang V 
* Yes,' she said, ' I know you would.' I added, which 
at the moment, I felt the greatest liberty in doing, — 
" You know, my dear child, that sin is the cause of 



MEMOIB OP MBS. 6HEBMAN. 243 

all the pains you now endure ; ' by man sin came into 
the world, and death by sin/ I theli set before her 
the love of God, in giving his only begotten Son to put 
away sin by the sacrifice of himself. ' His blood cleanseth 
from all sin,'and oh ! dear Selina, if you believe, and trust 
in that blessed Saviour Jesus, you have not only pardon 
through his precious blood, but He will give you peace 
and comfort, even amid your pangs.'' While I spoke 
these, or words still more expressive, there was a pause 
in the utterance of her pains, she looked at me earnestly, 
and replied with the most hearty concurrence, and in 
full expression of her faith, ' Yes, I know it is so.' 
The longer I reflect upon it, the more thankful I feel, 
and the more fully do I believe she fell asleep in Jesus. 
This was much from her, whose natural reserve on the 
subject of religion was striking, though she knew the 
grace of God, I believe, clearly. She never, even when 
exhausted and weary, left our room at night till we had 
prayer and reading. Often did she ask Mrs. S. to read 
to her, and oft myself to pray ; still I was more looking 
to the day of recovery, to address her personally ifpon 
the subject of her interest in Jesus, and fondly did we 
anticipate the time, when she would make a bright and 
devoted follower of the Lord. But that night, I doubt 
not, I was led by the Lord himself to address her in 
this earnest and affectionate manner, and I thank Him 
for it on many accounts. I said, ' I am now going to 
pray for you.' ' Well do,' she added, and bade me good 
night three times, with an anxious gaze, as I withdrew. 
I had not been in my chamber above half an hour, when 

M 2 



244 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

I was suddenly alarmed by a noise in her room, in which 
I heard her voice distinctly. Instantly one of the 
servants knocked like thunder at my door; I sprang 
from the bed, and in a moment had her in my arms, 
in the last convulsive eflFort of expiring nature. She 
went off as in sleep ; we raised and laid her on the 
bed, but her heart was silent, and her spirit had fled. 
The immediate cause of death was from the smaller 
blood-vessels giving way nearly all over the body, but 
especially on the vital organs. The blood itself was 
thinned, and the vessels so attenuated, that effusions 
were the consequence. I could not say now, whether or 
not this was caused by the water treatment solely, or 
whether there was not a natural predisposition to the 
fatal result, which might have been accelerated by the 
stimulating character of the treatment. The latter is 
the more probable. I shall, however, bring with me the 
result, as stated in the post-mortem examination. The 
organization was good and sound, save as stated above. 
The body was opened by two English surgeons, who 
have manifested (indeed, in common with all here) the 
kindest and deepest sympathy. 

" Thus terminated the mortal career of one whose 
mental and moral qualifications were of a high and noble 
order, who was esteemed, respected, and beloved by all 
who knew her. I never did find in any young person a 
more matured judgment ; she seemed intuitively to have 
acquired what years and age have only conferred on 
others. Her beautiful demeanour whilst under our 
immediate care, endeared her to us with an affection, 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 245 

perhaps, dear jfriend, far, far beyond what we should 
ever have felt, had she Dot been removed from us. We 
felt towards her as our own dear child, and as far as in 
us lay, we left nothing undone to make her happy, to 
comfort or sustain her. If we failed, it was in not being 
more personal in our addresses on the subject of her 
immortal soul. Tet we do both feel assured that she 
was, and evermor<e shall be, the Lord's. This, dearest 
friend, is the true source of consolation to your own 
heart in her removal. She has left the vale of sorrows 
to enter the land of joy and glory, where God himself 
shall wipe away all tears from our eyes, and there we 
too shall meet with all who love that blessed, dearest 
Name by which we are called, the name of Jesus. May 
the consolations of Christ, the bowels of mercies, and 
the comfort of love, be yours under this heavy bereave- 
ment. We purpose to leave this place next Monday, 
and hope to reach London by the 14th or 15 th of 
November. In passing through London, we shall caU, 
and give, by word of mouth, a more full detail ; mean- 
time, dear friend and brother in Christ, farewell My 
dear wife unites with me in this expression of deepest 
jrympathy and Christian love to Mrs. S. and yourself 
" Believe me, 
" Most faithfully and affectionately, 
"A. Stewart." 

It afforded, however, no small satisfaction to her 
friends to learn from Mr. Stewart, that the English 
surgeons who had seen the whole case, pronounced as 



246 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

their decided opinion, that no human wisdom could have 
foreseen the result, nor any human aid have prevented it. 
It will readily be supposed how acutely her mother felt 
this unexpected calamity, and, according to the usual 
tendency of her mind, how anxiously she sought that it 
might be made useful, especially to her class. One of 
her first efforts after hearing of it, was to that end. To 
her friend, Mr. Tyler, she thus writes : — 

^Surrey Parsonage, Natemher 8c4» 1842. 
" My dear Sir, 
<< The moumfuUy instructive Providence whiph I^as 
deprived our fireside of one of its loveliest attractions, 
ought to be improved, in the most solemn manner, to 
the young people of my class. I dare not trust myself 
to perform the melancholy duty. Will you, my ever 
kind friend, undertake this for me next Sabbath-day ? 
Circumstances, and littie notes of her writing, have 
come to me, which have perfectly relieved my mind of 
all anxiety as to her eternal state. I had suffered 
exceedingly from the absence of a full assurance that all 
was well, but I can now rejoice on her account in the 
midst of grief, and believe firmly that my precious lamb 
is with the good Shepherd, no more liable to stray from 
His tender care. Oh, the unutterable joys of my sainted 
child ! With Christ — ^spotless and fit for the presence 
of purity itself ! Oh, to be sure of meeting her there, 
clad in the same robe, and washed in the same blood. 
My beloved husband feels most deeply and increasingly 
the heavy stroke, and my own Mary — ah ! she needs 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 247 

sympathy indeed I She is graciously supported under 
her loss, but it is beyond human skill to heal such a 
wound. There is * balm in Gilead/ there is * a Physician 
there,' and we have experienced his sympathy and aid. 

^' But what a solemn voice is this to the many ^ almost 
Christians ' in the class ! May you be the honoured 
instrument of conveying that voice to their souls, that 
the death of this fair flower may be the spiritual life of 
very many, and that the decisive step may at once be 
taken, ' We vnll serve the Lord.' Foi^ve this hasty 
note, written under deep excitement and distress, and 
believe me, my dear Sir, 

" Yours most sincerely, 

" Martha Sherman.'' 

In another note to the same friend, written on the 
Sabbath morning, the desires of her devoted soul to 
their interests again break fortL 

" In the retirement of my closet this afternoon, my 
feeble prayer shall be that an eminent blessing may rest 
on you, and on those endeared young people ; that the 
usefulness I had planned only for my beloved child, 
may be accomplished, and not defeated, by her early 
removal One thing will tend pre-eminently to heal 
my wounded heart — ^the conversion of those dear girls 
to God. Long have I pleaded for them — ^it may be 
that God is about to grant me my desire, by this solemn 
dispensation. I believe they would rejoice to soothe 
me in my sorrow — this I can say — ^my sorrow shall be 



248 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

turned into joy, if they will this day consecrate them- 
selves to God.'" 



Succeeding particulars are detailed in a letter to a 
friend. 

" Mr. Tyler improved the event to my class, I under- 
stand, in a very impressive manner. The weeping 
among the dear girls will prove, I trust, the softening 
shower which precedes the springing of the seed, which 
shall eventually bring forth fruit to life eternal. We 
had fully expected Mr. James, of Birmingham, to preach 
to the congregation ; but as he could not come, the 
elders, and some of the more judicious of the church, so 
strongly urged my dear husband to undertake it, that 
he reluctantly consented, and last Sunday evening, to 
an overflowing congregation, he preached from John xix. 
38, ' A disciple of Jesus, but secretly,' a most suitable 
jand impressive sermon. The character was faithfully 
and affectionately drawn, and I am looking for much 
fruit. As it will be printed,* pray that its usefulness 
may extend far beyond our congregation." 

A little before this period Mrs. Sherman had become 
deeply interested in a group of sisters in Lancashire, of 
cultivated minds and manners, one of whom only had at 

* The Secret Disciple ; a Sermon occasioned by the decease 
of Miss Selina Sherman, at Freiwaldau, Silesia, Austria, preached 
at Surrey Chapel, November 27th, 1842, by the Be v. James 
Sherman. — Fourth Edition. 



MEMOIR OF MRS* SHERMAN. 249 

that period become associated with the church of Christ. 
During repeated visits, she laboured to impress them 
with the loveliness of religion, and the absolute necessity 
of immediate consecration to the Saviour. Without 
attributing too much to her example and conversation, 
there is every reason to believe they left a conviction of 
its value and importance, and were preliminary helps to 
their decision. She had the joy of beholding all of 
them, before her death, united to Christ by faith, and 
the companions of his saints. An extract from a letter 
to one of these amiable sisters, will best exhibit her 
anxieties and prayers on her behalf. 

«/tt»w,1841. 
" I should rejoice in attempting the most painful, 
self-denying thing, if I could but be the means of 
bringing my sweet friend to the entire, the unreserved 
consecration of her heart, her life, her all to Christ. 
This is my earnest prayer for you, dear, and my happi- 
ness cannot be perfect in this world till it is accom- 
plished. I think of that soul which is destined to im- 
mortality, as one whose powers were granted that they 
might promote the glory of Him, who entrusted them 
to your care, and fit you for the society of the pure 
spirits in heaven, and to enable you to further the 
glorious designs of- God, in bringing others to that 
blessed company. He is always promoting the happi- 
ness and benefit of the creatures He has formed for 
Himself, and He designs that such should be the bene- 
volent and elevated occupation of every redeemed spirit 

M 8 



250 MEMOIB OS* MRS. SHi!llMAl!r. 

in this world. The powers of mind — ^their cultivation 
by education and thought; all the events of Provi- 
dence, and the little incidents in your history ; the 
vexations aid daily mortifications, to which you, in 
common with every other creature, are subject, as much 
as the pleasures and enjoyments of life; all are de- 
signed to lead to heaven, to prepare you for its hal- 
lowed joys, and expel every weed which might not grow 
in the Heavenly Garden. Can I fail, then, to look with 
much anxiety on her who seems wavering and hesitating ; 
knowing too much of the loveliness of true religion to 
be happy without it, yet not sufiSciently acquainted 
with its glories to feel that all besides is worthless, and 
to take up her cross for its glorious Author's sake. 
Methinks, if you could fairly place, side by side, the 
value of the pursuits of the two worlds — the earthly and 
the heavenly — you could not choose the earthly ! What 
is the end to which all your pursuits bear ? I know you 
are amiable, intelligent, benevolent, kind, with many 
sweet charms besides. But take all your life together, 
what end have you in view ? Your pursuits gratify you 
as far as they are the result of your own choice ! they 
are enlarging your mind by adding to your stores of 
knowledge, and thus making you an intelligent and 
interesting companion ; you fill the station in which 
Providence has placed you with much propriety ; you 
administer to the happiness of many, as you have done 
to me. But there is something deficient in it all ; and 
if I mistake not, the feeling which I had for many years, 
is yours ; there was wanting one grand object of pur- 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 251 

salt; which at the entrance of your spiritual coarse, like 
Christianas wicket gate, is to be always in view. 

The Christian when his heart is surrendered to Him, 
from whom, in its madness, it wandered, feels he is no 
longer his own ; his own gratification is not his aim, he 
seeks only to please God. Every imagination of his heart 
is so grovelling and defiled, that he longs for a purer, 
higher guide than his own wisdom. And he finds the 
will of God in every respect, pure and worthy of a soul, 
which is to dwell with God. From henceforth the glory 
of God is the aim ; in every pursuit, the enlargement of 
mind is sought, that it may contain and comprehend 
more of God ; and so be fitted to promote his designs, 
and work with Him, in the renovation and salvation 
of the world. Self daily becomes less and less, as God 
appears greater and more lovely ; earthly pursuits become 
uncongenial, and the bearing of every thing is the will 
of God ; what He loves, the Christian loves ; what 
He hates, the Christian hates. God loves every crea- 
ture of the family of man, and seeks his happiness ; so 
does the Christian. The distinctions he once felt are 
gradually lost, as he grows in grace, and his desire is 
to carry out to his utmost influence this object of the 
Divine mind. He recognises and loves the traces of his 
Saviour's image where they are to be found ; and where 
they are not, he remembers that once he too was un- 
profitable and corrupt, and he longs to procure the deli- 
verance of that soul through the Almighty power which 
rescued him. And does not even this very faint picture 
prove, that happiness is nowhere to be found till we 



252 MEMOIR OP MRS. SHERMAN. 

begin to pursue the great end of our being ? Why did 
the ' Son of God' humble Himself, and become a curse 
for us ; but that we might be delivered from that weight 
of sin which binds the soul to earth. Would He thus 
have suffered and obeyed, but to restore us to the pure 
joys of pardon and communion with our Father ? Lose 
not a moment of such joy, my sweet friend ; you feel 
the burden of sin heavier every moment, fly to the 
cross, cast it there, and let that sin-defiled heart be 
washed in that cleansing stream, and there seek the pro- 
mised Spirit to enable you to soar towards heaven, to 
take up your cross, to mortify self and sin, and to fix 
your eyes on ' Jesus, the author and finisher of our 
faith.** Keep his example ever in view for your guide ; 
his cross to remind you of the price of your redemption, 
and your obligations to devote to Him what He has pur- 
chased there. And as his Father's glory was his un- 
deviating pursuit while working out our redemption, so 
be it yours, as one who reaps the benefit of it. ' You 
are not your own,' remember. Give God no rest, dear, 
till you are in the fold of Jesus. Yield not to the diffi- 
culties of prayer. Satan will try to present such impe- 
diments as will provoke you to relinquish it, at times, 
but you must apply all your energies, and constantly and 
perseveringly too. All is at stake, you must let nothing 
interpose between you and heaven. This shall be my 
prayer for you, my child." 

Sufferers had always a large share of sympathy in 
the heart of the pastor's wife, and an event called forth 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 253 

its expression on behalf of a little boy, supposed to be a 
prince of the Seninole tribe of Indians. His history is 
full of romantic interest. The following particulars 
were communicated by Dr. Welch, who brought him to 
this country. 

On the 25th August, 1836, a scouting party of five 
soldiers set out from Newnansville to scour the sur- 
rounding country, and look out for signs of Indians. 
Early in the morning, they disturbed several, who were 
helping themselves to some sweet potatoes in a fenced 
field, belonging to a deserted residence; the Indians 
took the alarm time enough to leap over the fence and 
make their escape, retreating over a small stream into 
the forest, through which the soldiers followed the trails 
of one or two a short distance ; they then deemed it 
prudent to return, not knowing the strength of the 
enemy, and again made their way into one of the mili- 
tary roads lately made in Florida, where they soon fell 
upon tracks of the footsteps of an Indian child, rendered 
distinct by rain which had recently fallen ; these they 
determined to pursue, considering it tolerably certain 
that they would be led thereby to one of the encamp- 
ments of the tribe. Towards night-fall they came 
in sight of the little wanderer, he having in fact, 
lost his way. With that quickness of hearing, which 
characterises all creatures in a wild state, he seemed 
to be aware of the approach of his pursuers, for they 
saw him bounding like a fawn to seek the covert of 
the bushes, and there they found him concealed in the 
high grass. 



254 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

On being seized, he uttered a scream of terror, ex- 
pecting instant death, but he soon smiled through his 
fast-falling tears, and in an imploring attitude, held up 
a peach in his little hand, as a ransom for his life ! In 
his flight he had passed through a peach orchard — ^not 
having eaten or drank the whole day, he plucked a few, 
and put some of them in the front part of his dress. 
The soldier took the oflFered peach and smiled, then re- 
turned it, and taking the little fugitive in his arms, 
mounted his horse, and placed him behind him. It was 
quite dark before they reached Newnansville, where he 
was taken in charge by one of the soldiers for the night, 
who fed the poor little famished prisoner with, a bowl of 
milk, and gave him a blanket, in which he wrapped 
himself after the Indian fashion, and lying down before 
the fire was soon asleep. 

On the next morning, he was brought a prisoner to 
Colonel Warren, Commandant at the Military Station at 
Newnansville, by whom he was given into the charge 
of James Shields, the soldier who took him, and who 
humanely preserved him from a proposal made by his 
comrades to murder him. He seemed to be five or six 
years old, he was emaciated, and his appearance indi- 
cated extreme sufiering. For at least three weeks, he 
maintained nearly a perfect silence, and apparently 
brooded over what he felt to be a heavy misfortune. 
Well aware that he was in the hands of enemies, 
he looked cautiously and quickly around, whenever a 
sound reached his ears, and appeared as if watching an 
opportunity to escape. Whatever passed in his infant 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 255 

brain^ it was quite clear that he did not contemplate 
starvation^ as he ate the bread and milk which was 
given to him, accepting it, however, with indiflference or 
shyness^ and again relapdng into his state of sadness 
when the meal was finished. He was never heard to cry, 
sob, or moan, but generally sat on the floor cross legged, 
motionless, and thoughtful, and seemed overwhelmed 
with a melancholy which in one so young was touching 
to witness. 

Instead of sending the child a prisoner to head- 
quarters. Colonel Warren, with commendable kindness 
and generosity, removed him with his family to his coun- 
try residence, where he permitted him to eat, drink, play, 
and sleep Yrith his children ; and although the child of 
their enemies, he soon engaged the affections and kindly 
feelings of the Coloners whole establishment. When 
the Colonel returned with his family to Jacksonville, 
the little Indian accompanied them, and became the 
frequent visitor of Dr. Welch. He had now acquired a 
sufficient knowledge of English, to make himself tolerably 
well understood ; his health had greatly improved, and 
he had grown a pretty interesting child. Dr. Welch 
entertaining great sympathy for the little captive, — 
fancying he observed in him the dawning of good 
qualities, and fearing he would be eventually claimed 
as a prisoner of war, preferred a request to Colonel 
Warren, that as he was about to leave that part of the 
country, he would allow the doctor to constitute himself 
his guardian. This request was granted, and he came 
under Dr. Welch's protection on the 31st October, 1837. 



256' MKMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

No persuasions could induce him to divulge his own 
name, or the names of his family— but when sent to 
school, the governess succeeded in eliciting from him 
his own name — Nikkanochee, and that of his father, 
Econchatti, and when asked on one occasion, if he had 
ever been whipped whilst in his tribe, he replied, " Yes, 
his uncle had once punished him with small switches to 
make him walk faster," (probably when retreating from 
their enemies,) and on being questioned what was the 
name of his uncle, in an instant he answered — " Oceola." 
From this and other concurrent testimony, Dr. Welch 
believes him to be the nephew of the valiant Oceola, who 
was treacherously betrayed, and died a captive in the 
fort of St. Augustine, in East Florida, and the son of 
Econchatti Mico, King of the Red Hills. In conse- 
quence of this discovery. Dr. Welch added Oceola, to his 
acknowledged name of Nikkanochee. It soon became 
evident, that being freed from military guardianship ; 
the hostility of his white neighbours, and the risk of his 
being claimed by the authorities, and sent " West," 
rendered the situation of the orphan boy, any thing 
but secure. Circumstances transpired to determine Dr. 
Welch to leave Florida, and return to England, where 
he arrived with his little Indian, on the 2nd July, 1840. 
After his residence in England about eighteen months, 
reverses rendered it necessary for the doctor to place his 
young charge in some establishment where his education 
would be attended to, and he would be prepared to pro- 
vide for his wants in advancing years, but every attempt 
failed to secure the object. By Oceola's repeated visits to 



MEMOIR OF MBS; SHERMAN. 257 

Mrs. Shennan, she had some opportunities of gaining a 
knowledge of his character and habits, and her sympathy 
and affection were drawn forth to the lad. At length, 
after much consultation with her husband, whose sym- 
pathy ran in the same channel, it was determined to re- 
ceive him into her house, and to adopt and educate him 
as her child. Although many blamed her for incurring 
so great a risk, as that of taking a half-civilized boy into 
the family, every step of his history hitherto has justified 
her decision. By the liberality of friends who were 
interested in his welfare, Oceola was sent to Mill Hill 
Grammar School, where he, by his courage and amiable- 
ness, became a favourite of all the scholars. After re- 
maining there two years and a half, he chose the sea 
as a profession, has been several voyages, and maintains 
a high character from his pious captain and shipmates. 

It was very refreshing to see the lively interest Mrs. 
Sherman took in this orphan's welfare, with what assi- 
duity she instructed him in the principles of the gospel, 
both orally and by letter, and furnished him with com- 
forts to which heretofore he had been a stranger. He loves 
her memory ; may he yet repay all her efforts and prayers. 

The year 1843 was distinguished, in her estimation, 
by the marriage of her eldest daughter, Mary, to Mr. 
Charles Burls, junior — an union which has been fraught 
with much happiness to the family. The pleasure 
she took in the preparations for that event, will not 
be forgotten by all parties interested — especially her 
anxiety that the ceremony and '' the marriage feast '^ 
might contribute something to edification, and convey a 



258 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

blessing to alL Nothing was neglected that her tasfce 
or etiquette could supply, but the great desire of her 
soul was uppermost, that the wedded pair should leave 
her roof with sanctified impressions of duty, and enter 
upon a new career of life, under its pleasing and solemn 
responsibilities. Little Oceola, in his native dress, and 
her youngest child, Martha, then nearly five years of 
age, led the procession from the Parsonage to the com- 
munion-table, in the Chapel, spreading sweet flowers in 
the way. A large number of Christian friends, chiefly 
relatives, followed, and the sacred edifice was crowded 
with an interested congregation. The father of the 
bride conducted the service, amidst the aspirations of 
many hearts for a blessing on the union ; and after 
their return to the house, at the request of Mrs. 
Sherman, the Rev. Dr. Morison delivered a most appro- 
priate and touching charge to the bride and bridegroom, 
and again commended them to God. At the feast, 
several gentlemen addressed the company assembled, and 
produced on those who waited, as well as on those who 
partook of it, a most salutary impression. One person 
became decided for Ood, as the fruit of her prayers and 
efibrts on that memorable occasion. 

On the 13th of June, in the following year, 1844, 
she gave birth to another daughter, after a long season 
of painful suspension from active labour. While con- 
fined for months previously to a horizontal position, her 
active spirit used her pen and influence in her great 
Master's cause. Only three specimens of letters out of 
great numbers written at this period, will now be given ; 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 259 

the first showing the fervent desires of her pious heart 
towards her first-bom child. 

** Sarrey Parsonage, June 4ih, 1844. 
" My precious Child, 
" Mamma has been thinking and talking of you so 
much, that she is sure you ought to be a very good 
little child, and let her have nothing but what is plea- 
sant to talk about. This time six long years ago, you 
came to mamma, a very little baby, but so fat, and 
looking so grave, as if you never meant to laugL Well, 
mamma was very much pleased that God had trusted 
her with a baby ; and before He had done so, when she 
only hoped He would give her one, she used to think, 
what will that baby be, if it should live to be a great 
woman. Mamma only had one wish, and that was that 
her Heavenly Father would adopt her child into His 
family, that it might always love and serve Him in 
this world, and then go into His family in heaven, 
where it would be with Him for ever. So as soon as 
He gave her the little baby, mamma gave her to Gk)d, 
to be his own happy little child. Now, no one likes to 
have a naughty, sinful child in their family, and God is 
so holy and so good, that He has only good children in 
His family. When He receives them, they are indeed 
guilty, sinful children ; but He gave His dear Son, Jesus 
Christ to suflFer for their sins, and to obey His holy law, 
which all had broken, and now, when a little sinful 
child wishes no longer to grieve Him, but to be obedient, 
and holy, and fit for His family, she goes to God by 



260 MSMOIB OF MRS. SUEBMAN. 

Jesus Christ ; and when a holy God would say, * I 
cannot receive that little sinful child/ she says, ' No, 
but Jesus has borne away my sins, and honoured thy 
holy law, and for His sake receive me, and make me 
one of thy happy and obedient children/ Now, he 
never refuses those who come in Christ's name. Jesus 
pleads for that little child, that for his sake she may be 
accepted. Then the Holy Spirit of God performs his 
part : He takes away the little heart that was so fond 
of sin, and makes the dear child give up her naughty 
tempers, and try to be like Jesus. He teaches her how 
to please and serve God, and makes her love Him more 
than she ever loved any body before. Then every one 
around her can find out that there is a great change in 
that little child's mind. She loves her Bible, she loves 
to pray, and instead of trying to please herself, she tries 
to please God first, and then every body around her. If 
any one is unkind to her, instead of being unkind in 
return, she tries to be more kind than ever to that 
person, because Jesus did so, and tells us to do so. Now 
mamma wants her dear little Patty to enter God's happy 
family on her birthday. She has, many thousand times, 
prayed that you might be there, but she is afraid you 
are not yet, and she wants you to try and to pray that 
God for Christ's sake may receive you, and write your 
name, Martha Rose Sherman, among the long list of 
His dear children on this your birthday. You would in- 
deed be happy then and good, and mamma would never 
be afraid if you should die, because she would know 
you were safe with your Father in heaven. Ask your 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAK. 261 

kind friends who are taking so much trouble to teach 
you, to pray with you to-day, that whatever shuts you 
out of that family may be taken away. You love to 
make papa and mamma happy, do you not ? Now they 
cannot be so, while they think you are not quite sure of 
going to heaven ; you are not a baby now, and Jesus 
tells children that they may come to Him, and He will 
guide them there. How dreadful must it be, not to 
regard what such a condescending Saviour says ? Let 
mamma hear, that on your birthday you came to Jesus, 
to make you His own child, and that from that day you 
were always trying to please and honour Him. Oh, how 
delighted I should be to hear such good news of my own 
dear little Patty ! All send their love and kisses, and 
hope you will live to see many more, birthdays, and that 
each one may see you serving and loving God : none 
but God loves you more than, 

" Your very aflFectionate mamma, 

" Martha Sherman."' 

The affliction under which her pious mother long 
laboured, sometimes cast a dark cloud over a spirit ordi- 
narily happy and well assured of its interest in Christ. 
Her daughter thus comforts her in one of these seasons 
of dejection : — 

** How sweet it is to know that redemption and recon- 
ciliation are achieved /or us, entirely independent of 
any merit in us ; the work is complete in itself — ^it is 
for us to receive it — and though faith often fails to 



262 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

discern its possession of the infinite treasure, the faint 
yet unquestionable traces of the slow and gradual pro- 
gress of the Divine image in the soul, in which Satan's 
likeness was once too evident, give cause for peace and 
joy, and the full assurance that He who has begun 
the good work will certainly complete it. My precious 
mamma, you cannot look into that mind of yours, and 
say, the improvement and elevation in its thoughts, its 
tastes, its hopes, its desires, and the results of those 
feelings, are but the efiect of self-cultivation and ordi- 
nary enlargement of mind. Surely the yearning of the 
soul after Ood and holiness. His own blessed Spirit alone 
implanted there. Oh, that faith were ever in vigorous 
exercise ! — how would it aid us in the struggle against 
Satan without, and sin within. Once Satan and sin 
dwelt together in the heart, but while there is any evi- 
dence that God dwells there, we certainly know that 
Satan is expelled, and though his wretched design is to 
seize the opportunity of comparative mental weakness 
which disease occasions, to try and regain his power, 
there is One far above him ever watching at our side, 
and when weakest, his compassionate heart gives double 
protection, if faith's dim eye could but discern it. Ah I 
my own mother, your ' title is clear' to me ; would that 
mine were but as clear. Could I for one moment 
believe that any part of my salvation depended on me, 
I should for ever despair; but I have the assurance 
that the provision is entirely made, and is mine, if I 
will accept it ; my confidence is strong that my poor 
sinful heart is ' made willing' by * His power,' and re- 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 263 

joices in every acquirement associated with that ' free 
gift/ and loves more and more the spirituality of the 
law of God, and the glories of the Divine character, as 
the feeble rays of light from heaven discover them more 
and more to my understanding. Associated as these 
are with a sinful, polluted heart, I dare not say I have 
wrought even the very little that is there, which resists 
that sinfulness, and abhors that pollution. And surely 
you have evidences of sanctification that my poor mind 
has never even imagined, much less possessed. Oh, 
that this afflictive, but righteous and all-wise dispensa- 
tion, may purge away all remaining dross, and make you 
unequivocally reflect the lovely image of the Crucified." 

The next note is addressed to a young friend, whose 
union took place on the very day Mrs. Sherman's 
youngest child was bom, and shows her impressions of 
the duties of the marriage relation. 

<* Surrey Parsonage, June 10«&, 1844. 

"My dear Friend, 
" I cannot anticipate the momentous events of Thurs- 
day next, and at the same time the equally momentous 
event which may previously occur to me, without ex- 
pressing, while I can, my deep interest in the results of 
that anxious day, and my most heartfelt and affectionate 
prayers that you may be permitted to be the most happy, 
useful, and honoured of Yrives, and your anticipated 
husband prove worthy of his treasure, and be equally 
happy, honoured, and useful. The Christian's ambition 



264 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

in every new undertaking is to be more devoted, more 
entirely consecrated to the service of his adored Master 
and Lord, and I believe you would not have ventured 
upon this step, had you not believed that such would be 
the result. May your expectations and hopes be far 
exceeded, through the rich blessing of your covenant 
God, and may His smile ever be yours, and His presence 
ever fill your dwelling, while you and yours never cease 
to be ' His habitation through the Spirit.' My dear 
friend knows that one of the important duties of married 
life is, the cheerful sacrifice of self-gratification for the 
pleasure of each other, without allowing the sacrifice to 
be recognized ; I have been little tried in this respect 
with my most precious and matchless husband, but I 
never make such efforts without an abundant repayment 
of peace of mind, and, I trust, a blessing. Such is 
perfectly consistent, I think, with unflinching decision 
of character, and firm hold of what is right against 
every attempt to draw us aside. Such trials as these 
you are not likely to be exposed to, as my friend 
has chosen a decided disciple of Christ. May you be 
strengthened, on your marriage-day, more especially and 
solemnly, to renew your consecration to God ; this will 
greatly relieve the trials of that which was to me a 
terrible day. Excuse this rough little witness to the 
sympathy and remembrance of, 

^ " Your very attached friend, 

" Martha Sherman." 

A serious attack, brought the newly bom infant very 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 265 

near the borders of the grave before it was a month old, 
and the exercise of her faith and patience was not 
without gracious fruit. 

*' I am thankful to say, I am quite well and gaining 
strengtL My precious babe is, I trust, out of danger ; 
the improvement since yesterday morning is very satis- 
factory. I could almost fancy the dear skeleton limbs 
had recovered a small portion of their original flesh ; 
she has been smiling so sweetly this day, that it seemed 
to tell of returning health. She is so perfectly gentle, 
and in the midst of severe external, as well as internal 
suffering, has exhibited such sweet placidity, that it has 
required no ordinary strength to say from the heart, 
' thy will be done ;' but how often do we find that when 
our Heavenly Father calls us to a trial we never had 
before, he gives us grace and strength we never knew 
before. The Refiner never removes his eye from the fur* 
nace, while the needed fire is performing its work — ^the 
tiny piece of metal was not too small for Him to care 
for, when He thought it worth putting there ; and it is 
a great comfort in sorrow, to remember that that sorrow 
is an indication that He is noticing us. Which of his 
children would prefer being unnoticed, rather than 
endure the purifying, but painful evidences of his love 
and care. Oh, that He might see his own imaf^ clearly 
reflected in the unworthy and unprofitable heart, he has 
been trying so painfully, but so mercifrdly. Tell the 
dear ladies to remember my consecrated babe, Selina, 
when they approach the footstool of mercy.'" 

N 



266 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

Only six weeks elapsed from the birth of her child, 
before she was called to witness a long expected and 
painful event — ^the death of her excellent mother. She 
had been for years the subject of disease^ which while 
it did not lessen her activity produced such acute suffer- 
ings, as drew forth the sympathy of every one who wit- 
nessed them. Her faithfulness to the friends of her early 
life — her hospitality to the servants of Christ — her 
services for the Redeemer's cause amid much weakness, 
and her devotion to the interests of the poor of the 
neighbourhood, have embalmed her name in the hearts 
of those who came within the circle of her influence. To 
her daughter, who prized her judicious counsels as one of 
her best earthly comforts, she was very precious. Of this 
event she thus writes : — 

" I know you have not forgotten your poor unworthy 
friend, as she has been passing through the deep waters, 
and the promise has not been forgotten by Him who 
gave it, ' I will be with thee.' Such a stroke, before my 
strength was regained might have been overwhelming, 
but my faithful God sustained me, permitted me to 
cheer the dying hours of my sainted mother, and I think 
to comfort my beloved widowed father. But how shall 
I leave him ! His mind shrinks from the idea, but 
home has its duties ; and responsible duties too. He 
cannot live in London, I cannot live at Enfield ; tell 
me my dear friend, what is my duty ; I have no sweet 
mother's counsels now. I feel I am, indeed, motherless. 
Oh, it is a painful loss. I know duty cannot clash 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 267 

with duty, but I want discernment to discover what is 
duty, and which path to take. My dearest papa, clings 
to me so fondly, and is comparatively happy while I am 
with him. He has never been separated from my be- 
loved mother since his marriage — except for two days! 
You may suppose how desolate he will feeL There is 
One who is, ' a very present help in trouble," still the 
absence of such a lovely character as he has lost, can 
never be made up in this world. May it endear in- 
creasingly the privilege of communion with his heavenly 
Friend.'' 

During the years over which these events run, she 
maintained the even tenor of her way, in supporting by 
her correspondence and active exertions, every institution 
in conne:![ion with Surrey Chapel, and as far as her 
opportunities extended, the cause of Christ generally. 
It often happens that an individual has some favourite 
project which he advocates, to the forgetfulness of all 
others equally useful, but her love to her Lord was of 
that universal character, that every branch of His cause 
gained her energies, and it only required some warm- 
hearted Christian, who knew the merits of the Society 
for which he pleaded, to solicit her aid, and her whole 
soul was immediately thrown into the. object. Among 
the letters of this period, numbers were written expressly 
to solicit help for poor ministers of Christ's gospel, 
and for afflicted and impoverished saints : also for the 
London Missionary, the British and Foreign Bible, the 
Christian Instruction, the Maternal, the Dorcas, the 

N 2 



268 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

Clothing, the Jews, the City Mission, the Town Mis- 
sion, the Irish Evangelical, and the Colonial Missionary 
Societies, the villages aoroand Beading, the Sunday 
Schools, the School of Industry, and the worldng Mis- 
sionary parties — ^pleas are urged and efforts made, as if 
every thing depended on her individual efforts. It is no 
marvel that the Institutions prospered with such an 
earnest heart and hand to help them. 

To give her numerous epistles on various suhjects to 
her Christian friends, and especially to her youthful 
charge would swell this volume to an immoderate size, 
and yet to make an extract from any one of them is like 
taking a painting out of its frame, for the professed 
purpose of exhibiting it, but at the same time concealing 
a portion of the subject. 

A young friend, whose heart she had been instru- 
mental in bringing to the Saviour, and who reminded 
her of that as the cause of her ardent affection, extolling 
the feeble agent more than she thought proper, is thus 
gently admonished. 

"AprU imy 1845. 
" I have a perfect horror of attributing any good to 
my own exertions : there is such danger of taking to 
ourselves what belongs only to God. Look at it as you 
will, the praise must be His — ^if I labour ever so self- 
denyingly, He first put into my heart the motive and the 
desire to do so, and He only gives the strength : — ^there- 
fore, if my heart says — I brought that sinner to Jesus — 
I helped that follower of the Saviour on her way, I 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 269 

immediately fly to the blood of Christ, for pardon for 
that self-glorifying thought, which my pride and igno- 
rance suggested ! Ah ! it is sufficient honour to be per- 
mitted to suffer, or to work for Christ ; let not pride 
spoil, and perhaps deprive us of the privilege, by robbing 
Him of his glory. What need we have of watchfulness I 
how many undefended parts are there in the heart ! and 
Satan lulls our suspicions by his plausible attacks ; 
therefore the more devoted we are to God's service, the 
more we have need to watch, because his temptations 
then are not usually to open worldliness, and evident 
sin, as those are not congenial to a mind that is re- 
newed, therefore, would be rejected ; but he tempts by 
means of spiritual things, and makes the intended 
blessing often prove an occasion of sin. So it was with 
St. Paul, — the revelations which made Isaiah exclaim, 
' Woe is me, because I am a man of unclean lips for 
mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of Hosts," 
proved dangerous to the humility of Paul, to counteract 
which it was needful for him to have ' a thorn in the 
flesh," and if the holy Paul was thus dependent, how 
much more must you and I be? Oh, let us be more 
constant in prayer for that humility, without which we 
are never safe. We must be * kept by the power of 
Ood through faith unto salvation," or we shall never 
' stand/ " 

A zealous disciple belonging to her class whose use- 
fulness was not small, is guided by the following 
admirable counsels. 



270 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

" I long to employ your active mind solidly, I want 
that tongue to talk indeed for Jesus, but I also want 
that mind and judgment to remember that ' there is a 
time to talk, and a time to keep silence.' I quite under- 
stand your feelings, my dear child, for I believe I have 
experienced the same, but while I would not for one 
moment check or damp your earnestness, I want you to 
control it — ^to keep it under right direction — ^to be pru- 
dent, quiet, and unobtrusive, as well as zealous and 
devoted. Here is the difficulty, I know, with a warm 
heart ; but you must ' adorn the doctrine of God our 
Saviour in all things,' therefore ' avoid the appearance 
of evil,' of forwardness in talking, as though you thought 
youiself somebody ; this sometimes brings an ill name 
on a youthful Christian, and lessens usefulness. Now, 
I want you to break oS every habit that is not calculated 
to glorify God. If you are a favourite in the class, 
remember this is an additional responsibility, which calls 
for much prayer, lest that which may be an instrument 
of extensive usefulness should prove an incentive to 
pride and glorying in yourself. Beware of this my 
child : I watch you with the deepest interest, because I 
see such excellent materials which God has implanted — 
not you — and if not directed wisely, and by Divine guid- 
ance, they may do as much harm as good. Be much, 
very, very much in prayer, my dear girl, that you may, 
step by step, be guided by Infinite wisdom and love, and 
be strengthened to ' Let your light so shine before men 
that they may see your good works, and glorify,' not 
Tou, but 'your Father which is in heaven.' Thus the 



MEMOIE OF MES. SHERMAN. 271 

lowly Jesiis acted — not to be seen of men — ^not to' bring 
glory oh his own glorious head : — throughout his whole 
history, unwearying, unbroken, self-denying labour, 
marked his course ; — the love of man's undying soul led 
him through the path of sorrow, from the manger to the 
cross. Now his work of atonement is finished, still he 
is employed as our Intercessor before the throne, and ere 
long, ' all nations shall call him blessed.^ * The whole 
^Eurth shall be filled with his glory,' — ' thrones and do- 
minions, and principalities and powers, shall bow before 
him, crying. Blessing and honour, &c., to himi that 
sitteth on the throne, and to the Lamb, for ever.'' May 
we be among them, is the earnest prayer of 
" Your afloctionate fidend, 

"Martha Sherman." 

To another who objected to taking an oath before a 
magistrate, and asked her opinion, she writes :— 

" The same sacred guide that says, ' Swear not at 
all,' says, * An oath for confirmation is an end of all 
strife.' You are therefore performing a Christian duty, 
under these circumstances, in taking the solemn oath 
that you will speak only the truth. The necessity 
of this oath is repeatedly shewn in Scripture history : 
the interests of a fellow-creature are in a degree in the 
hands of another, in such a case, and it is necessary to 
secure even a guilty person from false accusation and 
misrepresentation ; and as there are certain regulations 
for all classes of society^ and not a special one for con- 



272 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAIT. 

adentious persons, your duty is to ' submit to the higher 
powers,' as * ordained of Gtod/ You see this is very 
different from taking * the name of God in vain/ " 

The next is a note of consolation directed to one of 
her class in the hospital : — 

" You remember the beautiful first Psalm ; the 
Christian is there compared to a tree that brings forth 
his fruit ' in his season ;' he has sometimes a time of 
affliction, then the fruit of submission and self-exami* 
nation is in season ; sometimes a time of prosperity, 
then the fruit of watchfulness and prayer is in season ; 
sometimes a time of temptation, then the fruit of faith 
and close-cleaving to Christ is in season; sometimes 
a time of spiritual indolence and self-indulgence, then 
the fruit of repentance and self-abasement is in season. 
At all times, faith, repentance, and love are in seaspn ; 
and when they wither, it is evident, the tree wants 
watering with copious showers of Divine influence. 
Prayer, as in Elijah's case, must open the windows of 
heaven, which have been closed, that there may be an 
^abundance of rain/ Then how sweet to know that 
the heavenly Ghxdener is watching and training this 
little tree : through his intercession, it has not been cut 
down, and His blood has purchased the blessings it 
needs to revive and sustain it. May you and I bring 
forth much fruit to his glory/' 

A servant who had tasted largely of the grace of Qod^ 



MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAN. 273 

longed to become a missionary to the heathen, but Pro- 
vidence did not appear to countenance the desire by 
opening a path, and she is thus sweetly instructed :— *- 

^ Surrey Parsonage, September 27ih, 1845. 

" My dear Child, 
" I rejoice to hear you have obtained a situation, and 
as I find the class will not meet to-morrow on account 
of the teachers' meeting, I cannot help writing to you 
to uige upon you the necessity and duty of not allowing 
your burning desire to work for God, to interfere with 
your diligent performance of the duties of your present 
situation. You glorify God most by diligently, and as 
in his sight, performing the duties devolving on you in 
the sphere in which it has pleased Him to place you. 
If your heart is so set upon a certain way of serving 
Him, that you fail to serve Him in any other, you prove 
yourself unfit to serve Him at all. I long for you 
thoroughly to understand this : you shew your love by 
bearing as well as doing his will, and by doing whatever 
He gives you to perform. It may be that by thus calling 
you to a work so difierent from that which you desire. 
He is proving and exercising you, in order to prepare 
you for work of another kind. If diligent in His service, 
you will be diligent in serving those whom he appoints 
you to serve. If your one desire is to please Him, it 
will make you as diligent in scouring, dusting, and 
sweeping, as in distributing tracts — as anxious to be as 
a Christian a pattern of neatness, punctuality, and order, 
in your situation here, as if your were a missionary to 

N 3 



274 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

the heathen : you will lahour to work well with your 
hands, that you may be able to work for Him in what- 
ever way He chooses. This is your school, where you are 
fitting for future life : if inefficient and inferior in your 
services, you are not yet qualified for superior work. 
Get perfect in your present occupation, whatever it may 
be, and this will tend to qualify you, in body and mind, 
for any service to which you may be called. Till you 
perform household duties well, you are unfit to be a 
valuable missionary. But do not press so much any 
particular path ; God knows your desire, my dear child, 
and says, ' It was well that it was in thine heart,^ and if 
He sees fit, can yet give you your wish. There leave it, 
simply seeking to do his will. Do strive to be in every 
way a treasure to your employers. Cultivate great 
neatness and cleanliness, in your work, and in your 
appearance. All these things are pleasing to God, espe- 
cially when done to please Him. God abundantly bless 
and teach you, and give you your heart'^s desire to work, 
to live, to die for Him, is the prayer of 

" Your affectionate friend, 

" Martha Sherman." 

The following letter to a young Christian, who sought 
her advice, is so excellent that the reader would scarcely 
pardon its abridgement : — 

** Surrey Parsonage, March 20^, 1845. 

" My very dear Child, 
" Though my time is very fully occupied, those are 



lilEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 275 

my happiest, that are my busiest days. Since it is, I 
trust, the supreme desire of my heart, to ' do all to the 
glory of God,' to use my tongue, my pen, my influence, 
my all, in his service, therefore a letter to my sweet 
friend, to help her instrumentally in her way to ' the 
kingdom' comes most pleasurably into the employments 
of this day. When I look within at my own * exceed- 
ing sinfulness,' at the little grace, the tiny portion of 
knowledge I possess, the coldness of my heart, and its 
lifelessness in the service of Him who gave himself for 
me, I am ready to say, — can I indeed be of the happy 
number of those who 'are bought with a price,' and 
who therefore are sweetly constrained by the love of 
Him who bought them, * to glorify God with their bodies 
and their spirits which are his?' but one look at the 
cross of Jesus, at the wonderful union of every attribute 
of Deity in the accomplishment of the redemption of the 
world, makes me feel, that worthless as I am. He can 
save me, and by my salvation, glorify his own name. 
And if in my heart, in the midst of all my guilt, there is 
one all-prevailing determination to be his, to ' follow the 
Lamb,^ to give glory to none but Him, He only gave me 
that disposition, mingled as it is with corruption ; and 
He who has thus proved the commencement of his work 
in me, will assuredly not relinquish it, unless I grieve 
him away by neglect and rebellion ; and if He have so 
far gained my heart, he will not leave it thus to return 
to its former rebellion, — ^his influence there will gradu- 
ally drive out sin, and restore his own image. You see 
I am writing to you about myself, but I do so, because I 



27& JCEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

think you express the same discouragement that I often 
feel, and I would encourage you from the same source 
whence I have been enabled to receive comfort. To a 
mind really thirsting after God, I may thus give encou- 
ragement, but to one whose indecision, whose efforts to 
unite the service of 3od and the world, occasion doubts, 
I should write very differently. 

^' You ask, ' Does a true Christian ever feel disincli- 
nation to serve Gk)d V I certainly should say, and so 
would you, the habitual disinclination must prove an 
unrenewed mind, but, where this is the exception, not 
the rule, occasioning bitter grief, humiliation before God^ 
and prayerful resistance to it — ^this certainly is consistent 
with the Christian's conflict with sin and Satan» The 
many blissful anticipations of the heavenly world, in- 
clude the perpetual service of God^ without weariness 
or lifelessness, and I think that in proportion bb we 
^ grow in grace,' we shall catch more of the Spirit of 
heaven in this, as well as in every other respect. It is 
a great stimulus to exertion to think of heaven — its 
holiness, its employments, and above all of Him who is 
its glory — this makes me long to begin and practice 
its occupations, however f&intly, and to seek that 
others may glorify Him that sits on the throne, and 
share with me the sweet joys of even the baby efforts 
to serve and praise Him. Oh, the very thought of 
heaven sweetens every thing here, — every trial and 
cross, every event seems sweet from the conviction, that 
all is designed to help us on our way thither, to call 
out by test, our character, that we may discover what 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 277 

we are ; to strengthen our * faith and love, and every 
grace/ by exercise and trial, and to endear to ns the 
price of our redemption, the precious word of God, our 
guide to heaven, and the blest Spirit who takes of the 
things of Christ, and shows them to us. 

" I think it is a great help to the discovery of our own 
character, to cultivate a constant habit of self-inspec- 
tion, asking ourselves our motives for certain actions of 
the day ; and our reasons for certain shrinkings from 
duty. Like any other habit, it may to a certain extent 
become a form, so that we use it almost mechanically, 
but supposing this, we yet must glean even at the worst, 
some acquaintance with ourselves, and some matter for 
prayer. This must not supersede that self-examination 
which should accompany the regular seasons for devotion 
— ^this habit greatly facilitates it, leads through the day 
to mental prayer, confession and praise — and affords 
much help in bringing these matters afresh before God, 
giving to Him the glory due for assistance in duties, as 
well as mourning over omissions. Keep in mind, dear, 
that you are Christ's servant, and that you have to 
glorify Him, not only in acts strictly religious, but also 
by diligently performing the duties of your vocation 
whatever it may be. The true leaven leavens the whole 
lump. Religion consists in the exercise of holy prin- 
ciples, therefore, no external consecration to the service 
of God is owned of Him, if not the result of the hal- 
lowed principles which He by his Spirit imparts, when 
He regenerates the mind. Now, we can certainly by 
faithful self-scrutiny ascertain, what are the motives 



278 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

which induce certain conduct, and when the affections 
of the heart towards God are cold, and lifelessness robs 
us of all enjoyment in duty, still let us equally pursue 
it, guided by the same holy principles, though not 
wafted along by the sweet gales of love. With every 
Christian while in this world, there will be great alter- 
nations of feeling, but religion itself does not depend oh 
feeling. Of course, its exercise is greatly assisted by a 
warm and glowing heart, but the cold day of a Chris- 
tian's life tests the sincerity of his obedience. If we 
serve Him, approach Him and speak of Him, only when 
the heart is warm, there is reason to fear the flame of 
our piety may soon be extinguished. But when coldness 
in God's service grieves us, or if we cannot grieve, that 
very thing distresses us, and we labour to discover the 
cause and apply the remedy — that precious blood which 
cleanses from all sin, and that divine influence which 
first quickened the soul to spiritual life — I think these 
are indubitable marks of the Spirit's work on the heart, 
and of adoption into God's happy, redeemed family. 
A deeper acquaintance with our own hearts, and with 
Him who redeemed us, and a growing conformity to 
Him in our whole character and conduct, are evidences 
which we cannot question j they necessarily include re- 
pentance, faith, and love, and every other Christian 
exercise. May you and I experience to the fiill, the 
extent of Christ's glorious work, and be strengthened to 
win all around us, both by example and effort to Jesus. 
" Believe me, my sweet child, 

" Your very affectionate friend, 
" Martha Sherman." 



i 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAK. 279 

A young person who had been singled out from an 
ungodly family by the grace of God, had become the 
subject of parental opposition. She was one who had 
arriyed at years of discretion, and gave no cause of com- 
plaint at home, except concerning the law of her God. 
Among other annoyances, she was prohibited by her 
mother from attending any religious services during the 
week. She asks for advice, and is thus instructed : — 

" I have consulted with Mr. Sherman, my dear young 
friend, on the subject which occasions you so much 
anxiety ; and he is of opinion, that it is not your duty 
to give up your week-day privileges, for these reasons ; 
first, the commandment is to ' obey in the Lord,^ there- 
fore, when the parental command is to abstain from the 
use of those blessings and privileges which God has put 
mithin your reach, or to do that which is displeasing 
to him, obedience, then, would not be in the Lord. 
Secondly, if no other duty is neglected by your atten- 
dance at the house of prayer in the week, the require- 
ment is unreasonable ; therefore, as you are of an age 
to judge what is proper or otherwise, obedience to a com- 
mand which arises from improper motives and causes, 
is not binding. Thirdly, in the situation in which you 
are placed, with every eflFort being made to destroy the 
holy principles which the Spirit of God has implanted 
in your heart, you need strength and assistance in your 
Christian course from every divinely appointed means ; 
and as God must be dishonoured by a lifeless, uninflu- 
ential profession of His name, it is your duty to use 



280 MEMOIR OF M&S. SHEBMAH. 

every help to prevent dishonouring Him, and to culti- 
vate that exalted piety which shall glorify Him con- 
tinually. This is, I think, his candid opinion, and on 
second thoughts, I quite agree with him : still, I feel 
your situation is an extremely delicate one, especially as 
reference was made to the fifth command, in connexion 
with your profession of religion. I think your resolu- 
tion should be stated to your mother, after much prayer 
both for yourself and for her, and with much Christian 
love and respect, remembering that obedience is required, 
except where the command interferes with Gbd's com- 
mands, and I would advise you to state your reasons for 
acting differently to her desire. May this severe trial, 
my dear child, be sanctified to you. Tour Heavenly 
Father would not permit it were it not necessary to 
make you * partaker of His holiness.' Pray to be enabled 
to view it as the apostle viewed all his trials, 2 Cor. iv. 
17, 18. Look through the trial, and beyond it, to its 
gracious design. Be more anxious that it may be sancti- 
fied than removed, and think more of the distressing 
condition of the persecutor's soul, than of the distress 
she occasions you. May God give you grace and strength 
to glorify Him in the fires." 

Soon after her residence at Surrey Chapel, she induced 
several young ladies of the congregation to form them- 
selves into a party, who should meet once a month at 
each other's houses, to make fancy articles and useful 
clothing, to be sent out to a selected station of the 
London Missionary Society, either as gifts, or to be sold 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAK. 281 

there for the benefit of its local operations. Most. of 
these young persons being also members of the Monthly 
Bible Glass, they had at these meetings, in addition to 
their ordinary spiritual tuition, the presence and assist- 
ance of their invaluable president, whenever opportunity 
permitted. Her letters to them of various dates, and 
from various places, show how much she sympathized 
in missionary efforts, and how earnestly she wished -a 
missionary spirit, as the result of lively and fervid piety, 
to be manifested among her young friends. Two ex- 
tracts from letters, one without an address, and the 
other while residing at Grafenberg, exhibit her faithful- 
ness to her Lord, and her watchfalness over her charge. 

<' The last object of my letter, though not the least, 
was to enquire if it can possibly be true that your 
numbers and your zeal are diminishing. I would hope 
it is a mistake, as I can scarcely suppose, that when 
we are called to renew our energies, in order to meet the 
increasing demand for missionaries, to be more earnest 
in prayer, and to cultivate in every way a missionary 
spirit, the young people of Surrey Chapel are holding 
back. Nothing would grieve me more than to hear 
that you are not increasing in zeal, in numbers, and in 
spirituality. If the cross meet us, and difficulties assail 
us, we must not shrink from either, but bear in mind 
that it is the cause of Christ — of Him who purchased 
us with His own blood, in which we are engaged, and 
each must stimulate others, and do all in her power to 
aid His work, and to hasten on the glorious promised 



282 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHE&MAK. 

day, when ' all shall know Him, from the least to the 
greatest' Be. cautious that in your meetings you never 
forget the object for which you assemble, viz. to aid the 
missionary cause by your iimusTBT, and to promote a 
missionary spirit in each other. Guard against desul- 
tory conversation, as this will necessarily defeat the 
design for which you meet. May the God of love fill 
you with His Spirit, and grant that the ' love of Christ 
may constrain ' you. 

'' I write what is nearest my heart, rather than news 
of this wonderful place, because that intelligence you 
have received from other quarters. I have heard, with 
great r^et, that the little missionary working party 
is not well attended. Give my most affectionate love 
to the young ladies, and tell them, that if I could 
have hoped to find them all assembled, to contribute, 
by their industry, and by increased acquaintance with 
the importance of missionary operations, to send the 
glad tidings of salvation to the millions who are perish- 
ing in ignorance of the only way of salvation, I should 
have said ' Go on, not mechanically, but as working 
for Him, whose cause you are bound by every tie to 
promote.' It is not a mattisr of choice, whether you 
may or may not unite your energies to bring on the 
promised time, when ' All shall know Him, from the 
least to the greatest,' and to send to your perishing 
fellow-creatures the same gospel which, in your happier 
land, is so universally known and proclaimed ; but your 
duty, under whatever circumstances you may be placed. 
It is not the hard bondage of a slave to a tyrannical 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 283 

master ; Oli, no ! it is the constraining influence of the 
love of Christ, which calls us to remember His own 
words, ^ He that gathereth not with me scattereth 
abroad/ The mind in which a hope exists that a 
Saviour^s dying love has procured its deliverance from 
the curse of God, and united it to Him in bonds of hal- 
lowed friendship, and that believes the satisfaction he 
has made to the Divine Justice avails for every crea- 
ture that will embrace His salvation, surely, such a 
mind must pant to make known the glad tidings in 
some way, however humble the contribution be — whether 
of money, time, talents, or prayers, it must be esteemed 
a rich privilege to have any thing to do with the great 
work. Oh, I desire no other influence than that which 
springs from the love of a crucified Saviour. Let this 
love but dwell habitually in the heart, and constantly 
guide its possessor, and I fear not the want of a mis- 
sionary spirit. Let us, my dear friend, be more earnest 
in prayer for the reviving influences of the Spirit of 
God, to make us more decided for God, more unflinching 
in our obedience, more established in the truth of the 
gospel. I long for the time when my dear young people 
shall truly be ' living epistles, known and read of all.' 
There must be much secret prayer, much devotional 
study of the sacred volume, to discover the glorious 
character of God, and much self-scrutiny, if we would 
be Christians indeed. How mournful would it be, if 
owned of the church of God on earth, but disowned by 
its great Head : the piercing words, ' If any man have 
not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His' — ' Without 



284 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

holiness no man shall see the Lord* — call loudly to us 
to * examine whether we be in the faith/ To be happy 
Christians, we must be growing in ' grace, and in the 
knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ/ '* 

There lie befcwe the writer a heap of notes, which 
from an ordinary hand, would have been mere notices 
that the meeting was to be held at her house, with an 
invitation to attend on the day appointed ; but Mrs. 
Sherman made each a vehicle of some important advice, 
caution, or exhortation, adapted specially to the case of 
the young person to whom it was addressed,. intended 
to form habits which would adorn the Christian lady, 
while the cause of Christ among the heathen was ardently 
promoted. One will serve as a specimen. 

" I am anticipating the pleasure of receiving the 
Missionary Working Party on Wednesday the 27th, 
when I trust, my dear young friend, nothing will pre- 
vent your attendance, and may I add, I hope each will 
be in the dining-room at one minute before ten. I love 
punctuality, because I think it is among the * lovely 
things,' which the Christian is to pursue. God is a Being 
of perfect order in all his arrangements, and in propor- 
tion as the power of sin is weakened, and the Divine 
likeness progressing in the soul, we shall find these 
things rise in importance in our estimation, and nothing 
will be regarded as too little to exercise our efforts, which 
may in the tiniest degree advance us nearer to the image 
of God. A mind that is truly great, spurns not the 



MfiMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 285 

little things which have, (as all must have) power to 
influence its habits, and to {Hromote its trae loveliness. 
Let us, my dear friends, labour after eminent Christian 
consistency, and a close walk with Ood, that we may 
learn more of His character and will, and ' grow up into 
Him in all things.' I am very anxious to see more 
fruit arise out of our little party, which was designed 
to promote personal and relative piety, aa well as a 
missionary spirit ; these objects cannot be advanced by 
merely meeting together ; much prayer must accompany 
any efforts or means that the blessing may be bestowed* 
And I trust, that the Spirit of prayer and effort may be 
granted to us all, at our anticipated meeting."' 

Mrs. Sherman had long felt that this little happy 
missionary party was not sufficiently extensive to repre- 
sent all the females of the congregation ; and therefore, 
wished to form another to embrace every class. She 
believed that where fervent piety exists, it will make its 
possessor anxious to save the souls of others, and as the 
miseries and wants of the heathen are brought before 
the Christian, his piety will increase, and his sympathy 
and love be drawn out for their deliverance. Her own 
spirit was eminently missionary. ^ I gain much,' she 
writes, ' by union with the Missionary Society, for what 
little piety I have is greatly increased by the accounts 
forwarded, month by month, of its operations in heathen 
lands. I learn how grace can triumph over the most 
degraded specimens of my race ; I see how missionaries, 
my brethren and sisters, can, amidst privation and 



SS6 MCXOIK OF MS& SHSEMAS. 

suSmnjtv vh.'Ilr unknovn to it% ' endure as aeeiiig Him 
vIk" i$ ivLTisirl^ ^ — I beh.Id real religioii produdiig the 
;»uae ^nckM^ te&cts ia tLe TosLnLrofed saTsgc, whea it 
v'COf ^:ai$ vx ifumsce. ;fts ia tike Siiet refined — and 
*K*tv *I*^ I bitv rc:cf r=!!i2sbed tktt Clui^ confines 
;!jv*« :>*? 3iA2::^-s5a:5cos ct ii !ct* ti? aay pannhr chss 
y*^'' ».ca ^r <cirja : *?ct r-'f'S 5^ lit ^inonisL Vond, or 
tb.v. ^ttrrvrt ui rv*i"i<i. ^^-clJ-k scraie aB"i afcifing. and 
x*:$.vas? <»t ^vrr. wix-a aciiJle ^«bl •! St ttrmgh^ntTr. 
^^ ^^v/ «a ^Wfcl ^t* :acirjiEia5 it oit gfcnrrAwsf wUdi 

>t\\-.i ^* :>vMr :^ • »vj:^ :ir :itf sn&aairy i£ 'zut 








MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 287 

to hear the arguments of others, in its favour, with her 
usual prudence, she summoned a meeting for conference 
and prayer, the result and improvement of which she 
sent to her Sunday afternoon class, in the following 
judicious letter. 

•* Surrey Parsonage, 0<ibdber l&A, 1846. • 
" I mentioned to you, my beloved young friends, that 
I expected to meet several friends on the proposed plan 
of forming a Missionary Working Association for the 
congregation generally, whether young or old, rich or 
poor, who would subscribe to it from a shilling a year 
and upwards. Accordingly, those who were against it, 
as well as those who were for it, consulted together, and 
the friends in favour of it succeeded ; but as there is, 
alas ! no perfection here, and the best designs may prove 
evil, if not judiciously carried out, I feel particularly 
anxious that the objections which have been suggested 
as likely to prevail, may be doubly guarded against. It 
is probable that many among my dear class may join 
the society, and as I hope I have a degree of influence 
over them, which I have not over others less known to 
me, I am anxious to use that influence to guard them 
against the abuse of that which may, rightly used, prove 
a great privilege. The danger which many friends 
anticipate is, that home duties, less agreeable than these 
little meetings, will be neglected ; that the young people 
will be tempted to leave to their mothers the share of 
domestic employments which properly devolves on the 
daughters, whose pleasure it ought to be, not only to do 



288 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

what they must, but all they can, to help their parents. 
I see how possible it is that this may be the case, and 
therefore warn my dear young fiiends in the class, who 
know my opinions of the fallacy and emptiness of that 
profession of religion which is not accompanied by great 
diligence in every duty of our station. My object in 
desiring this society is, that personal piety may be pro- 
moted, by a greater acquaintance with the sufferings 
and privations of the heathen who are ' without God in 
the world." My plan, therefore, is to keep the subject 
of missions only before us all the time we are together ; 
to meet from five to eight in the evening, once a month, 
to get a missionary whenever we can, and when we 
cannot, to select reading on the subjects of interest con- 
nected with the station for which we are working. As 
Christians are to set an example to the heathen, I am 
very anxious that the needlework be good, and worthy 
of happy English women. The particulars and rules 
will shortly be printed, when you shall see them, and 
subscribers be supplied with them. We hope to com- 
mence the first week in January, each subscriber to 
receive a card to bring in as many more subscribers to 
the society, the London Missionary Society, I mean, 
as we can procure. I shall be glad if my dear class 
will make it known as far as they can, as I am not 
sure that it can be publicly announced. Now, let my 
dear fiiends, unitedly supplicate a blessing on this new 
effort, to promote a missionary spirit amongst us. In 
proportion as we grow in the Divine likeness, the objects 
that are dear to the Eternal mind, are dear to us. His 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 289 

one intense desire is the salvation of a ruined world, by 
sending it the glad tidings, that Jesus Christ ' came to 
seek and to save that which was lost.^ Let it be our 
business to carry out this object, first by securing the 
salvation of our own souls, then by efibrts and prayers 
for others at home, and abroad, and part of those efibrts 
must be the force of a consistent Christian example. 
Such may my dear class ever present, that God may be 
glorified." 

This was the last Association she was permitted to 
establish : her health having declined very rapidly from 
the time of its formation, she was not allowed to attend 
its first, or any subsequent meeting, yet she had the joy 
to learn that a large number joined immediately, and 
that it progressed in usefulness to themselves and the 
heathen. God give to its members the spirit of per- 
severance and devotion to missionary objects, which 
their president so richly enjoyed ! 



CHAPTER X. 

THE COMMENOEMENT OE HEB ILLNESS, AND HEB 
SOJOUBN AT BBIGHTON AND VENTNOB. 

In the autumn of the year 1845, the dear subject of 
this Memoir took cold from exposure to bleak winds, in 
consequence of insufficient clothing, which produced a 
greater irritation of her constitutional cough than was 
customary, and she paid a visit to some old friends at 
Tunbridge Wells, in hope that the genial atmosphere of 
that healthful spot would remove the threatening symp- 
toms. Notwithstanding the kind attentions of her 
friends, the cough increased in violence ; and soon after 
her return home. Dr. Risdon Bennett was consulted. 
The remedies which he prescribed greatly relieved her, 
but after a few weeks, disease again began to show itself 
in such fearful prostration of strength, that the anxiety 
of those who knew the value of the precious saint it 
attacked was greatly increased. Additional advice was 
sought from Sir James Clark, who gave his reluctant 
but decided opinion, that her lungs were aflFected ; yet 
he believed that with care, and the adoption of imme- 
diate remedies, her life might be prolonged for many 
years. The month of December was exceedingly mild 
and sunny, and the doctors thought that a residence 
in Brighton, till January, if the weather continued so 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 291 

favourable^ would renovate her strength, and mitigate^ 
if not remove her cough — thither she accordingly went, 
to a house selected for its adaptation to her condition. 
The bright beams of the heavenly luminary cheered her 
spirit, and the air, balmy as the breezes of May, gave 
her its zephyrs, and infused some little vigour into her 
frame. As any exposure to the atmosphere invariably 
provoked the cough, she could not leave the house with- 
out an Orinasal Respirator, which proved an unspeak- 
able comfort, allaying the irritation, and enabling her to 
take such exercise as the violence of the cough would 
otherwise have prevented. Seated in a wheel-chair, she 
enjoyed the ride on the parade by the beach, and her 
cheerful, hopeful, joyous spirit, made her husband be- 
lieve that a little time only would be required to restore 
her failing energies. Her state of mind at this time 
cannot be better described than in her own language. 
To a young lady in delicate health, she writes : — 

« November ^, 1845. 
^' I plead with you to take care of your health, that 
you may have the honour of serving God for many 
years, and not be called in youth, to bear instead of to 
do the will of your heavenly Father. As we grow in 
grace, we prize more our opportunities and privileges, 
and do not sentimentalize on the joys of an early 
removal from this world. When our Christian character 
advances, we shall unceasingly breathe after heaven, as 
we catch more of the spirit of heaven ; but it seems to 
me more heaven-like to seek to ^ spend and be spent' 

o2 



292 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

for Christ here, with the anticipation of being at last 
* for ever with the Lord.' " 

To another, whose love and kindness she much 
valued : — 

*' November 2lit,lS45. 

" Thank you, dear, for the many kind and undeserved 
expressions in your note. I deeply feel that I am, and 
have been a ' cumberer of the ground,' and I can only 
wonder why I was planted in so fruitful a soil, where 
heavenly dews and sun abound : where neighbouring 
trees yield their luxuriant fruit to the glory of the Lord 
of the vineyard, though all of them, even at the best, 
ill repaying the pains and culture He has bestowed. 
Well may He say of me, * Cut it down, why cumbereth 
it the ground.' Year after year has He gently dug 
about my roots, with the same instrument with which 
He will, I think, eventually cut me down. Yet I cannot 
imagine wrath in the stroke ; not in judgment, but in 
Infinite wisdom, and for the rousing and benefit of 
others, that my removal might efiect instrumentally 
what my lifeless presence has failed to do. Fray for me, 
my dear friend, that energy and spirituality may be pro- 
duced by the Spirit of Life in my dead soul, and that 
my few remaining days may be really, what my heart 
has desired and professed past days to be, wholly and 
entirely the Lord's. May every blessing be yours, and 
growing devotedness to his lovely cause." 

The kind attentions of many friends in preparing for 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN: 293 

her such delicacies as they thought her failing appetite 
could take, drew forth many effusions of gratitude, such 
as the following : — 

** 37, King*s Road, Brighton, Deoember lltA, 1845. 

"My dear Friend, 
" What can I say to you for your kind present, re- 
ceived through my dearest husband ? I greatly feel your 
affectionate remembrance of me in my time of aflUction, 
of ' light afiUction ' indeed, for there is so very much 
mercy mingled with it, that the difficulty sometimes is to 
know whether that can be an affliction in which faith 
brings me the enjoyment of so many precious things as 
realities, which it only recognized before. ' The things 
which are seen,^ the ' temporal,' may be gloomy — they 
are so, viewed alone — ^but we are not to look at them : 
that would be to complain of the defects of the casket, 
which contained a ^ecious jewel. The ^ £Eur more ex- 
ceeding and eternal weight of glory' is wrought by 
affliction,' while we look not at the things which are 
seen, but at the things which are unseen and ' eternal.' 
Who would look at the dark cloud, except for the lovely 
rainbow upon it ? the bow is not seen when the cloud is 
not there : and what lovely hues of His character are 
displayed who ' puts His bow in the cloud' of our 
darkest affliction. Ah ! it is well, if a Father's hand 
smites. He has blessings in reserve, and I will wait 
and hope for them, and welcome health, if He shall 
please to grant me that too. I am weak indeed, phy- 
sically and spiritually, but while there is the promise of 



294 MEMOIK OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

Bpiritual strength equal to my day, I can bear the other 
cheerfully. How I love the dear Surrey people, for 
their kind prayerful interest in one so unworthy of 
their regard ! With kindest loye to your circle, believe 
me, my dear friend, 

" Yours very sincerely, 

"Mabtha Shbbman." 

As soon as her illness assumed a threatening aspect, 
which the air of Brighton did not remove, the church 
met to supplicate the Father of mercies to interpose his 
gracious hand, and if it pleased Him, to restore her 
to health and usefulness. The mothers over whom 
she had presided had repeated concerts for prayer, and 
sent her some precious sentiments of sympathy and love 
— to which she thus replies : — 

** 37, King's Road, December I2th. 

"My beloved Fbiend, 
" What can I say in return for the kind and affec- 
tionate expression of the sympathy of the dear Maternal 
band, which your welcome letter contains? I would 
write my sense of it to them generally, but the poor 
mind sympathizes with the body in its weakness, and it 
is a mental effort to which I am unequal ; but you will 
express for me what you know my heart feels, and how 
cheered I am by the kind remembrance of me which 
has been shown by them, in common with all the dear 
church at Surrey. It is sweet to find a special errand 
to our Father's throne, and to be borne there by so many 



HEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 295 

Christian hearts. I am perfectly amazed at the un- 
merited interest of my dear Mends, and it humbles me 
to know how little I have practically shown the deep 
interest I feel in them. How little I have improved 
the many opportunities of exercising useful influence 
over them, in exciting to more eminent devotedness, 
and to closer walking with God. Ah ! my loved friend ! 
I dare not say, should my heavenly Father restore my 
health, how different shall my future course be, but I 
would rather plead, that such a sanctified result of His 
chastisement may be granted ; that so I may act, and 
my desires be no longer floating imaginations only, but 
practical, uniform labours, to draw all within my reach 
to Jesus. Surely if the prayers of your — our — dear 
Maternal band ' come up as a memorial before God," I 
shall, if not restored to bodily health, yet receive that 
measure of spiritual vigour, which I so much need. 
May the dear hearts that remember me be ever on the 
heart of our adorable Intercessor before the throne, and 
all meet Him there, to unite in one song for ever." 

In reply to some kind and anxious enquiries, she thus 
addresses one of her father's servants. 

^^ December l%tk,\^^. 

" I am much obliged for your kind anxiety on my 
account. How delightful to know in whose hands my 
life and health are. Who can be anxious in such 
hands ? I cannot wish any other appointment than his 
own. Ileports from Surrey say, my illness has already 



296 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

been blest to many, in ronsing them to more prayer and 
diligence. Is it not tben worth while to soffer, if God 
be glorified by it ? While others are being watered by 
it, pray for me that my own vineyard may not miss 
the heavenly shower, and perish in barrenness and firoit- 



A young lady, a member of one of her classes, had 
gathered around her a number of Jewish children, to 
whose instruction in useful and religious knowledge she 
devoted herself. Mrs. Sherman took the deepest inte- 
rest in this class, first firom a special love to the chil- 
dren of Israel, and next from the indefatigable zeal 
and perseverance which prompted her young friend, 
amidst great difficulties and discouragements, to pro- 
ceed in her work of faith. She thus encourages 
her: — 

" I think you have no reason to be cast down about 
your dear Jews. Think what they were — ^what they 
now are — and what they are likely to become, through 
the influence of the prayer of faith accompanying the 
valuable instructions already imparted. It is neither 
the planter nor the waterer, but the Spirit which you 
seek, that shall take the veil from their hearts. I often 
think the efforts for them are like one expecting the 
rising sun. While gazing and watching for the lovely 
and much-desired orb, his eyes get dazzled with the 
brightness of the clouds which give promise of his 



w 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 297 

rising. He watches till he can watch no longer, and 
turns his eyes to objects less brilliant, but nearer at 
hand. While he is thus engaged, the sun rises, but he 
sees it not, till the warmth and brightness it diflFuses 
rouse him to turn again and look. So we wait and 
pray for Israel's salvation, but again and again are 
disheartened, because the bright promises which first 
encouraged us to pray and watch yet remain unfulfilled, 
though the voice that spoke them, assures us they cer- 
tainly shall be performed ; and while our unbelief leads 
us often to turn our eyes to more tangible and visible 
fruits, or prospects of fruits, the event occurs, the veil 
is removed from their heart, and we perceive it not, 
till the sweet results of Israel's turning to the Lord, 
gladden the whole world. You have watched long for 
the answers to our united Thiirsday's prayers for your 
little class, and your dear heart seems failing, ^just at 
the moment when the improvement and the remarks of 
the children, seem to indicate a state of mind preparing 
to welcome Christ, the once despised ' Nazarene,' as 
their Saviour. Be not discouraged, dear : expect great 
things. One converted Jewish child may be one 
of the instruments God shall employ. ' A nation shall 
be bom in a day.' Go on my beloved girl, and expect 
to see those children in heaven, then I believe you 
will labour more diligently, and pray more fervently for 
them." 

The following extract shows the heart of the mother 
— ^the loving, praying, believing mother : — " The dear 

o 3 



^ 



298 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHEBMAK, 

children are remarkably well, and baby the rery best 
baby that can be. I never saw so good a child. I 
trust she will grow up as good as she now is. Perhaps 
I may not liye to see her a woman, but I belieye 
she will be owned of Him, to whom she was given long 
before she was born ; and if He ' take her np,' as David 
says, I need not fear, if I go home first, that my chil- 
dren will follow me in due time.'' 

In the month of January, she returned to the Par- 
sonage, without any material improvement The con- 
tinued violence of the cough, and increased prostration 
of strength, yielded only fearful anticipations of what the 
result must ultimately be. Still, as so much depends 
on using remedial measures in the early stages of pthisis, 
a consultation of physicians was thought desirable, and 
Sir Jam'es Clark, Dr. Chambers, and Dr. Latham, met 
on her case, in the early part of February. They were 
united in opinion, that disease existed extensively in 
one lung, and that a removal to a purer air was essential 
to improvement. They by no means thought the case 
hopeless, if great care were exercised, and the cough 
could be subdued. With respect to that part of the 
country in which the patient might be located, the ease 
and comfort of her mind, as well as body, were to be 
consulted — if it was too far for her husband often to be 
with her, solitariness would be likely to destroy what 
good air might eflFect. They therefore determined that, 
all things considered, Ventnor offered most advantages, 
for its climate and proximity to London, and accord- 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 299 

ingly she went thither with her husband, youngest child, 
and nurse, in the first week in February. 

In a small memorandum book, the following note 
written in pencil, after she arrived at Ventnor, exhibits 
the calm resignation of her spirit to the will of God, and 
the rich enjoyment she possessed of his gracious presence. 

Fehruary lO^A. — " Left dear Surrey for Ventnor, by 
the advice of Sir J. Clark, Drs. Latham, and Chambers. 
Felt it a trying decree, but much relieved by the con- 
fidence that a loving Father saw it best for me ; no 
severe chastisement of an angry God, but a Father's 
needed discipline. Much cheered by his dealings — 
taking so much trouble with me, to prepare me for the 
enjoyment of himself on earth, and at last in heaven ; 
where the service and worship shall no more be impeded 
by disease and weakness. I would record my enjoyment 
in the chair on Ryde Pier ; I thought, perhaps as silently y 
but unconsciously y I might be borne back again, no 
more to see my beloved earthly home, but to be laid by 
my dear mother's side, to await the voice of the arch- 
angel ; yet felt satisfied, that if it were so ordered, it 
would be, and it was better, and more for God's glory 
that it should be so: therefore, checked the rising 
thought of those, whose dear hearts might desire my 
stay, and who seem to need it. That is not necessary 
which God withdraws in love.'* 

The last private record which she permitted to bo 
preserved, immediately follows the preceding. 



300 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

February 12th. — "Dear husband left — ^watched the 
Qoach with its beloved passenger to the top of the hill at 
Bonchorch, and c(»nmitted him to Him, whose word is 
enough for his protection. Took a solitary walk to divert 
my mind — ^most lovely scenery, He who created the hills 
is my Beloved and my Friend. Saw a poor Jew, and 
longed to speak to him, but could not with my respirator, 
yet enjoyed prayer for him. ' Lord let a Saviour's blood 
be on him, not as a curse, but as the blood of the Lamb 
of God, which taketh away the sins of the world.'" 

As the St. Boniface Hotel yielded so many comforts, 
and relieved her of all domestic care, she preferred re- 
maining in the rooms she first occupied, during her ! 
residence in that lovely spot. The mildness of the i 
atmosphere at first greatly relieved her cough, and 
favourable symptoms excited the liveliest hopes; bnt 
they alternated so much, that it was difficult to say 
whether real advances were made towards recovery. She 
believed herself better — ^her appetite improved, a less 
beauteous flush adorned her cheek — her capacity for 
walking increased, and the tone of general health was 
more vigorous — the cough, however, did not lessen its 
attacks, and some of its spasms brought her very low — 
stealing from her all the strength the change of scene 
and climate had bestowed. 

Several circumstances contributed to render her resi- 
dence at Ventnor very interesting, both to herself and 
some of its residents. The ministry of the Rev. Mr. 
Warden, when she was able to attend was refreshing to 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 301 

her spirit, especially, as the chief subject of his preach- 
ing was the cross, to which her heart clung as her only 
refuge, with even more tenacity than ever during her 
aflSiction. His pastoral visits with those of the clergy- 
man and the Rev. Mr. Med way, tended* greatly to com- 
pensate for the loss of Christian ordinances, and to 
sustain and exhibit the flame of piety, which a weak 
body often conceals from the view of the sufferer. A 
little band of Christian mothers whose spirits were alive 
to the welfare of Christ's cause, occasionally saw her, 
when she was able to converse, and her entreaties pre- 
vailed with them to establish a Maternal Society, which 
progressed in usefulness and comfort, and continues in 
rficiency to the present time. 

" I hope," she writes, " to form a Maternal Asso- 
ciation in this room in a few days ; I am quietly work- 
ing at it. The great difficulty is to find some suitable 
person to superintend it. Mrs. , has been sug- 
gested, but she is neither a mother nor motherly. The 
tradesmen's wives are quite encouraging in their response 
to the proposition, and I think it would much promote 
union and love, as well as piety, in the congregation. 
Pray for me, my dear friend, that I may be guided and 
assisted in the little effort.'" 

One day, while resting on a stile near Bonchurch, a 
young widow passed, and by her appearance, indicated 
that she had not long known that mournful condition. 
Pity instantly moved the heart of Mrs. Sherman towards 



302 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN; 

the disconsolate stranger, whose inquiry respecting her 
health, aflForded the pastor's wife an opportunity for 
further conversation. In the melting tones of her tender 
voice, she expressed her sympathy for the recent loss 
and present circumstances of the widow ; which seemed 
to meet the desires of a heart longing to tell its grie& to 
the benevolent mind, of whose kindness the soothing 
words that fell from those gracious lips were the evi- 
dence. This is her deeply interesting recital of the 
event : — . 

'' I walked this morning alone to Bonchurch, and 
felt very tired ; seeing a stile rather farther on, I sat 
there. As I rested, I thought how humbling it was to 
be literally disabled by my respirator from speaking to 
any of the poor I met : while trying to get some useful 
lesson from it, a widow and child, whom I had not seen 
before, came up, and seeing me, kindly inquired after 
my health ; after a few general observations, she was 
moving on, saying, as she bowed her leave of me, ' it 
must be a trial to you to be alone in Ventnor,' I 
simply replied, ' Your trial is greater than mine ; but 
if we both know and love Him who tries us, our trials 
will be sweetened, will they not V She immediately 
said, ' Oh ! that is what I want to understand.' I 
asked permission to join her, as she was going home, 
and I shall not soon forget that walk, the eagerness 
with which she sought instruction, and the liberty 
that was given me in placing the gospd before her. 
I believe my respirator helped my freedom, and I 



1 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 303 

seem now quite satisfied that God has given me some- 
thing to do here, worth all the trial of coming. She 
begs that I will allow her further conversation another 
day, which you may be sure I will. Indeed it seemed 
altogether so arranged, and so timed, that I cannot but 
hope an unseen hand directed us to meet. Tou will 
entreat for her and for me, that I may be assisted to 
guide her, for she seems very ignorant, though as she 
says, * longing to be converted \ and that her heart 
may be opened to receive the truth in its sweet simpli- 
city. I am much interested in the servants too — I 
hope to get at them thoroughly soon — I have had much 
conversation with one, and I believe she feels some in- 
terest. God meant more in sending me here, and in 
trials generally He intends more, than individual benefit. 
It is for us to watch His working, that we may work 
with Him, and promote all the objects He designs. If 
I may but help another to heaven, I shall not think it 
so painful to be separated from my dear home." 

Finding her message acceptable, she followed up this 
first interview by successive meetings, in which she en- 
deavoured to explain to her willing disciple " the way 
of God more perfectly.'' 

" I am increasingly interested in my widow : she 
usually spends from seven to eight in the evening with 
me : think of us, then. I am endeavouring to instruct 
her thoroughly in the great doctrines of the gospel, for 
I fear unless her mind, as well as her heart is influ- 



304 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

enced, the snares around her will prove sadly injurious. 
Eveiy truth is new, and she drinks in instruction with 
great delight.'' 

She made this widow's case a suhject of entreaty with 
Ood, that He would be pleased to compensate the loss of 
her creature comfort, by taking up His residence in her 
heart ; she wrote to several of her friends to engage their 
prayers on behalf of the " hopeful inquirer/' and com- 
mended her to Christians in the vicinity, entreating them 
to watch over the buddings of piety which had begun 
to appear. Mrs. Sherman was soon convinced, that 
repentance for sin, especially for* neglected opportunities, 
and faith in Christ, though '^ as a grain of mustard- 
seed," existed in that spirit, whose previously unfriendly 
habits, and present hindrances to decision, rendered her, 
to all human appearance, a most unlikely person ever to 
taste of gospel privileges. A period of two years confirmed 
the accuracy of her judgment ; and a short time before 
her death, she '^bequeathed the widow's soul as a legacy" 
to a Christian friend, to be watched over and trained for 
God. Subsequent events have brought her to London, 
where she is associated as a member with the church of 
Christ at Surrey Chapel, and walks before God to the 
comfort of her pastor's heart — ^as a living memorial of 
the precious saint who won her soul for Christ, and a 
striking illustration of the fact, '^ Blessed are ye that 
sow beside all waters." 

Her conversation with the servants, and her aflFec- 
tionate kindness for their immortal interests, so won 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. SOo 

them^ that they solicited the privilege of attending the 
family service. " I have at last found courage to allow 
the household to be present at family worship, when I 
am alone : they always unite with us when Mr. Sherman 
or papa are here, but till lately, I only allowed nurse 
to come in. We now assemble eight, including the 
waiter. I never, previously, prayed before a man^ ex- 
cept in the cottages of the poor, and I feel it to be a 
great effort ; but the desire on their part to be present, 
convinced me that I should think of no impediment." 

As soon as Mrs. Sherman was informed that a small 
debt encumbered the Chapel at Ventnor, with a counte- 
nance beaming with benevolence and decision, she said 
to her husband, " I will try and comfort the dear man's 
heart, by attempting its removal.'' Weak as she was, 
she wrote a note every day to some liberal Christian, 
and pleaded with others, from whom she never had a 
denial, and in less than a month, the whole amount re- 
quired was paid. Never can her husband forget the 
moment, when he accidentally disturbed her in her 
room, kneeling before a chair on which she had placed 
the money thus collected, begging God to accept the 
oflFerings of his servants, and thanking Him for employ- 
ing her in its collection — ! it was a lovely sight — ^to 
behold both the contributions and the eflForts, which 
wer^ great in her state of weakness, alike consecrated to 
Ood. Let the contributors to that fund be assuted that, 
ere this, good interest has come to them from heaven^ 
through her prayers. 



306 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

She thus describes the state of her health : — " Well, 
I suppose I must say something about myself: I am 
decidedly stronger : I keep out, walking, standing, lean- 
ing against posts, sitting, sauntering, or riding every 
bright day, and we have had two days only that were 
not so. My cough is generally much as it was; two 
days this week, my old symptoms of exhaustion and 
sickness have thrown me back, but I hope soon to re- 
gain lost ground. My hemi yearns to speak to the 
poor invalids I see here ; I long to know where is their 
hope, and whether I could help to point them to Jesus. 
My respirator is a great impediment, because it is as 
difficult to be heard as to speak.'' 

To a young friend in the North, in whose honoured 
family she had occasionally taken up her abode, she 
addressed the following letter, as an answer to objections 
and difficulties arising from a want of assurance. 

* 'January, 1846. 

" You have been very much in my heart since I 
received your letter two months since ; but my ability 
to write where aiiy effi)rt is requisite, has been so feeble, 
that I have deferred, hoping for better days ; but my 
weakness and cough remain, and therefore, in spite of 
an empty mind, I am going to try to answer you. A 
conversation only could properly respond to your i^ote, 
because, »like all in your state, there is a mixture of 
complete contradictions^ — ^not loving Jesus, yet longing 
to be like Him — ^loving sin, yet aiming at perfection, 
&c. Now, my sweet child, one thing is certain — ^that no 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 307 

conflict begins in the soul till the Spirit of God begins 
to work, therefore set this down at once, that these 
desires after God are not produced by your own sinful 
nature. To discourage you in your path to the king- 
dom, the enemy of souls is perpetually throwing temp- 
tations in your way, to make you stumble, and if he can 
succeed, to induce you to give up entirely so diflScult an 
effort. Remember, the Christian life is one of conflict 
and of faith. Joyful, indeed, would any Christian be, 
without the trial of faith : but would this glorify God ? 
No ! Christian assurance is the result of close walking 
with God, by simple unshaken faith in His word. You 
are to commit that naked, guilty soul to Him, to be 
saved in His own way; you are to expect, nay, to 
receive salvation, because the offer of it is made to you. 
God has proved his entire satisfaction in the work of 
His beloved Son, by raising Him from the dead, and 
seating Him at His own right hand in glory, as the 
Intercessor. The work of redemption, therefore, is com- 
plete, and now the gospel is sent into the world, invit- 
ing every creature to receive it, because God is 'just, 
and the justifier of him that believeth.' Take God at 
His word, and accept salvation, and the fruits of faith 
must follow. You must not be discouraged because of 
your many falls and broken resolutions ; look up cheer- 
fully to Him who promises strength to the faint, and 
' help to the weak." Keep a steady purpose, in most 
entire reliance on Divine strength, and ' the supply of 
the Spirit of Jesus Christ," and do not stop to look how 
many times you have fallen, >ut pursue your way, see 



308 MEMOIE OF MRS. SHBBMAN. 

the exercise of constant repentance — of simple trust in 
a faithful friend, forget ' the things which are behind, 
and press forward to those which are before ;' tarry not 
in all the plain, but press onward, onward, onward! 
Thank Him for every thing you discover of a hopeful 
character; give Him the glory, and this will greatly 
encourage you. Do not be idle ; you will never get on 
if you are. Your time belongs to God, your talents are 
His, and for Him they must be employed. Ask, ' Lord 
what wilt thou have me to do, and show me how to 
do it; open a way for me, that to Thee I may render 
of thine own.' Be much in prayer, and in prayerful 
study of the word of God. Use God as a friend, and 
you will soon write cheerily. If my poor mind can at 
any time help you, or if I have not caught what you 
meant, do use me, and let me know ; I may not be able 
to write immediately, but I will when I can. I fear I 
must at least wait till the spring for brighter days, but 
I am most happy ; I love the hand that smites, and I 
cannot shrink at His gentle touch! With much love 
to your dear circle, I am, 

" Your truly attached friend, 

'^M. Sherman.'' 

As the summer advanced, more strength was gained, 
the cough seemed greatly subdued, and hope was enter- 
tained that even now her life might be given to her 
family and the service of her Lord. " Prayer was made 
without ceasing by the church" for her, and all her 
friends were strengthened, to continue in supplication 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. S09 

by the pleasing indications of recovery. The Countess 
Vou Reden, of Buchwald, in Silesia, Prussia, was exceed- 
ingly anxious that a change of scene and air should be 
tried, and sent her a most affectionate invitation to visit 
her hospitable mansion, and try her maternal superin- 
tendence. Her physicians thought the plan desirable, 
now her powers were recruited, and advised an imme- 
diate departure, while the brightness of the summer 
lasted. As she has preserved a lengthened detail of the 
incidents of the journey in her journal and letters, it 
will be given in the next chapter. 



CHAPTER XL 

JOURNEY TO SILBSIA AND RETURN TO ENGLAND. 

Those who have been associated with consiLmptiye 
patients, well know with what hope any change of resi- 
dence is hailed as a means of recovery. When Mrs. 
Sherman was informed, that eyery thing was arranged 
for the proposed journey, and that she and her husband 
were to start on July 21st ; she expressed the utmost con- 
fidence that the visit to Silesia, would completely restore 
her, and that she would return to resume her duties at 
Surrey, in her former vigour. Indeed, this was the im- 
pression of most of her Mends ; for as she had so much 
more strength than she possessed eighteen months before, 
it was presumed to be a satisfactory evidence that the 
disease was at least not progressing, and excited the 
hope that the entire change of scene which a continental 
tour would present might finally arrest it. She bore the 
journey with remarkable ease and apparent comfort — 
and seemed frequently less fatigued than her companion. 
When she arrived at Buchwald, her friends were asto- 
nished to see her look so well and appear so strong, and 
felt assured, that the disease was not of so serious a 
nature, as had been apprehended — ^a confidence which 
was strengthened by the opinion of their physician. 
Her husband shared at times in the expectations of 



HSMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 311 

others, that he should again hehold her engaged in the 
activities of domestic life. She had once accompanied 
him as an invalid to Silesia, and had witnessed with 
joy and gratitude, the beneficial efiects of "the bracing 
mountain air in the recovery of his fading health — ^he 
now travelled with her in similar circumstances to the 
same country, cheered with the probability of similar 
results. The interesting incidents of the journey which 
she narrates in the following pages, so entirely diverted 
her mind from thoughts of her complaint, that in addi- 
tion to the natural buoyancy of her spirits, they were 
calculated to increase her cheerfulness and hope. 

July 21s^, 1846.—" We left Surrey Parsonage at 
noon for Bamsgate, where we slept, and at five o^clo^k 
the next morning, sailed for Ostend : we remained there 
till the afternoon, and then went on by railway for 
Ghent. An English party accompanied us to the Con- 
vent of St. Elizabeth, to hear evening vespers, where 
we met dear Dr. Henderson: the church was filled 
with kneeling nuns, the music poor, and the singing 
confined to the gallery ; one old nun came round for 
our ofierings ; I had none to present, but prayer, that 
light might break through the intense cloud of ignorance 
and superstition. 

" Next morning 23rd, went by train to Liege, and 
slept in a splendid hotel, the Pavilion Anglais. Arrived 
at Cologne, a little too late for the five o'clock train to 
Bonn ; we had to spend three hours in the waiting-room, 
were dreadfully dirty, and wishing to procure the luxury 



312 MEOMIB OF MBS. SHEBMA^. 

of a wash, I set out on an exploring expedition^ and 
asked a woman, whether I could be allowed the use of 
a room ; a look of enquiry was given by her to a man, 
who quickly disappeared, to make the important arrange- 
ments requisite for such an undertaking. In a few 
moments he appeared, and requesting me to follow him, 
I was introduced to a passage, on the floor of which was 
a pail of water, which with a polite bow, he commended to 
my patronage. Thinking this blissful arrangement might 
yet be improved upon, he removed the redoubtable pail to 
one of the stairs, thus forming a choice washing-stand, 
on which I arranged my soap and brush ; and then in 
the presence of some who seemed unwilling to be ejected, 
I cpmmenced the delicious operation. Grateful for such 
a refreshment myself, I asked them to allow my husband 
the same privilege, but this was at once refused, and I 
returned, thankful only that I had not before my luxury 
was presented to me, known that I only was to possess 
it. How every enjoyment diminishes when shared alone ! 
If it be thus felt in the perishing things of time, why 
not more so in the substantial blessings of eternity ! At 
eight, the long wished for train started from Cologne 
to Bonn, and we soon discerned the beautiful and far- 
famed Drachenfels. In an hour we were in Bonn, at 
our old quarters Der Stem, now much enlarged and 
improved, and slept in the room opposite to that which 
dear Selina and I four years before had occupied. We 
intended to take the steamer at eight in the morning, but 
fearing the effects of the storm on my cough, we waited 
till the boat from Cologne arrived at half-past twelve. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 813 

The thunder had ceased, but the frequent showers of 
rain compelled me to seek shelter below. The boat was 
beautifully fitted up, and our situation was far from 
annoying ; still, the beauties of the Ehine were scarcely 
discernible from the windows. A slight intimation given 
by one of the waiters that dinner would shortly be forth- 
coming, sent the people down stairs by shoals. Every 
fresh stoppage seemed to bring new acquaintances, and 
greatly enhanced the cheerfolness of our journey. A 
group of Germans are on one side of me, eating, drink- 
ing, and conversing incessantly, and a voluble English 
lady opposite, talking to a bachelor-looking gentleman 
on the ugliness of new-bom babes ! A gentleman lies 
asleep near her, lulled, no doubt, by the soft monotony 
of her incessant tongue. More interesting to me is my 
own dear husband, who is fast asleep by my side, uncon- 
scious that my pencil is employed about him. We 
reached Coblentz at six this evening, and took apart- 
ments at the Giant Hotel, rather fearing that no public 
Sabbath privileges will be ours to-morrow. While I 
rested, dear husband went out to explore a little, and 
had nearly paid dearly for it : he went much farther 
than he intended beyond the town, and while in the 
field, a dreadful storm came on ; it became perfectly 
dark, and poured torrents of rain. He had no umbrella, 
nor did he meet any one of whom he could enquire his 
way ; at last a German passed him, who, through the 
kind Providence of our watchful Friend in heaven, 
accompanied and sheltered him with his umbrella nearly 
all the way home. I, through fatigue, was asleep, and 

p 



314 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

mercifully unconscious of the lateness of the hour, still 
less of the perilous situation of my most beloved one. 
Oh I for a heart to feel my debt of gratitude for this, as 
well as all my mercies. 

26th. — " We were much pleased to find there was 
English service twice on the Sabbath, but were so 
wearied at night, and so disturbed from half-past four, by 
the constant chiming for service in the Catholic churches, 
that we were obliged to rest as long as possible in the 
morning, and came down to breakfast a little after nine. 
A worthy looking German soon arrived, and addressing 
my husband as a clergyman of the Church of England, 
requested him to assist in the anticipated absence of the 
officiating clergyman, Mr. M. ; but finding he was not 
orthodox, he turned to a genuine son of the church 
breakfasting with us,*who promised to assist, if neces- 
sary. We found 'the church in the house' literally, 
as a room was devoted to the worship of God, with 
two statues — one of the Pope. An invalid clergyman 
preached from, ' It must needs be that offences come, 
but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh,' a 
beautiful sermon as to composition, but entirely deficient 
of the gospel, the only thing adapted to the necessities 
of his hearers. We returned to our hotel, with a son 
of Dr. Humphreys, a minister in Kentucky. The music 
at dinner was excellent, but sadly unsuitable for the 
sacred Sabbath-day. In the evening we heard Mr. M., 
a good sermon from, * Whosoever shall do the will of 
my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, 
and sister, and mother ;' but the precious truths wanted 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 315 

a warmer utterance. A well-played piano was substi- 
tuted for the organ. 

27^A. — " Monday morning, took steamer up the Rhine 
to Biberich, and breakfasted on board. The little damp 
encountered on entering the boat occasioned a fit of 
coughing, which spoilt my day, produced a distressing 
sense of exhaustion, and incapacitated me for enjoying 
any thing ; no nice people on. board, and happily no 
temptation to talk. We arrived at Biberich, the seat 
of the Prince of Nassau, about six, and rode to Wies- 
baden, ' the city of lodging-houses.' Most quiet apart- 
ments were given us in the garden of the Hotel de 
Poste, where a delicious meal, to our hunger-stricken 
stomachs, of tea, fish, cutlets, &c., was served up with 
great rapidity and taste. This may be taken as a speci- 
men of a German watering-place, where every temptation 
abounds to young and old, and gambling is carried on 
openly, with royal sanction. I slept most sweetly in 
our quiet chamber, and on the morning of the 28th, we 
drove round to the various sights. The Kur Saal is a 
splendid saloon of large dimensions, surrounded by pillars 
of Limburg marble ; it serves the purpose of banquet, 
ball, assembly, and gaming-room, and forms the centre 
of attraction and gaiety. It is gorgeously furnished, with 
splendid curtains of rich brocaded satin, lined with white 
silk. We tasted the water of the Kochbrunnen ; it is 
very hot, and has the taste of chicken broth. The 
water-drinkers receive their portion scalding hot, and 
walk about, glass in hand, till it is cool enough to be 
drunk. We were astonished, as we walked along the 

p 2 



316 MEMOI& OF MBS. 6HEBMAN. 

streets, to see the vapour occasioiially rising on all sides, 
which must make the place very hot in summer. A 
long avenue of acacias leads up to this spring, and is a 
delightful promenade. The bazaar furnished me with 
a most convenient travelling basket for three and a half 
guilders. 

"After a very pleasant survey of this enchanting 
place, we proceeded by railway to Frankfort, through a 
most richly cultivated country. This evening at eight, 
we proceed to Weimar, to break the journey to Leipsic, 
where we expect to arrive at eight to-morrow evening. 
We took our places in the eilwagen, with an English 
gentleman, whom we afterwards discovered to be a tutor 
at C. C, Oxford, two German gentlemen, one of whom 
soon left us, that he might sit where smoking was 
allowed. All spoke English. We had dined at five, 
and knowing the Germans' eating propensities, we had 
no doubt of plenty of refreshment ; but, to our dismay, 
we were told that we should not stop till five in the 
morning. I slept, but was not refreshed. 

" At five the 29th, the pleasant sound of rest for 
breakfast was responded to readily, and after sundry 
adventures, which are the sad inseparable accompaia- 
ments of German travelling, I came to the tempting 
meal, but found little that I could eat. Coffee I relished 
most, still it yielded me but little support ; on this^ 
however, we were to subsist till dinner at half-past three 
o'clock. While changing horses, my good husband ran 
to some shop, and obtained a very excellent German 
vorst, which I enjoyed exceedingly, and a new loaf; on 



MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAN. 317 

this we stayed our hunger, and fared tolerably welL It 
is one of the best things to take on the road, where you 
cannot command a good hotel, or a rest at a convenient 
house. I persuaded him not to stop at Weimar, but 
continue the whole journey, as we should save but ten 
hours, and meet many more difficulties in proceeding 
to Leipsic. Though weary, yet having committed every 
step of the way to the guidance of our Heavenly Father, 
I believed this arrangement was best. 

" At half-past six, on the 30th, we were rattling over 
the stones of Leipsic, and soon found ourselves sitting 
down to an excellent breakfast, in a small room at an 
hotel, near the railway. The meal refreshed and invi- 
gorated me ; and after a good bathe, I found myself 
quite equal to a hasty view of the lions of Leipsic. We 
hired an excellent carriage, and drove to the rather fine 
Church of St Nicholas. It is too overloaded with orna- 
ment to be beautiful In a closet near the door, we 
saw the pulpit in which Luther first preached. A 
stupid woman shewed us the church, who could give 
us but little information. The tower of the castle of 
Pleissenburg is now converted into an observatory, from 
the summit of which, we were shewn the field of the 
battle of Leipsic. A German took great pains to ex- 
plain to us the plan of the battle. It was the most 
awful account I ever remember to have heard. Napo- 
leon brought 136,000 troops on the ground, and the 
Allies 230,000. The battle-field extended over many 
miles, and the battle itself lasted for three days. The 
carnage was indescribably dreadful. How great the 



818 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

mercy that our beloved country, from its isolated posi- 
tion, and the care of our Heayenly Father, has escaped 
being made the seat of war ! The Rathhaus, or Town- 
Hall is a fine and very ancient building. In the square 
in which it is situated, the allied sovereigns met after 
the battle. We then saw the monument erected in M. 
Gerhard's garden to the brave Poniatowski, who fell in 
covering Napoleon's retreat, — and returned through the 
public walks, which are peculiarly agreeable and beauti- 
ful, to the table d'hote, at one ; and at four proceeded 
by railroad to Dresden, to the Hotel de Saxe, and soon 
recognized the sublime tones of the clock of the Frauen- 
kirche, in the opposite comer of the same square. We 

are still with our amiable friend M , who has joined 

some college men whom he expected, and we shall pro- 
bably meet no more on earth. I expect that this supe- 
rior young man will some day prove a second Arnold. 
At the table d'hote, the music was softer and sweeter 
than at Coblentz, but not equal in execution. 

" As we found no letters, and were unwilling to leave 
without them, we resolved to wait till Monday, and 
instead of going through the Saxon Switzerland in our 
journey, we took a carriage at seven in the morning, 
and spent a long day among' some of its choicest 
beauties. We crossed the Elbe in a large ferry boat, 
for which nothing was demanded, although a trinkgeld 
was expected, to see Pillnitz, the palace of the King of 
Saxony. Though we left the carriage to walk through 
the grounds, and met it at the other end, we thought it 
would be wiser to relinquish this inferior sight, and 



MBMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 319 

reserve all our time and strength for the finer scenes 
before us, especially as no horse or carriage could assist 
us there, and we anticipated a tolerably fatiguing expe- 
dition. A luncheon was supplied at the little village of 
Lohmen, when, to my great gratification, the question 
was asked, whether the lady would have a chair and 
bearers. Dear husband, ever alive to that which would 
please or relieve his wife, engaged it for five francs, 
which, by deceiving him with the distance, they managed 
to increase to sixteen. The guide went before to 
arrange for my chair, and after a short ride in the car- 
riage, we alighted, and sent it by the road to Konig- 
stein, there to await our return. Seated in a most com- 
fortably-cushioned chair, a stirrup for my feet, and 
borne on poles by two strong men, with my shawl and 
umbrella strapped behind it, we started for Ottowalder 
Grand, husband walking. Before I was quite sure that 
I was actually seated, I found myself descending some 
hundred steps cut out of the rock, winding down a 
frightful depth between two immense rocks, which were 
covered with trees, and almost closed at the top, in one 
place only four feet asunder. Some huge blocks of stone 
in one place have fallen from the summit, and form a 
natural roof, beneath which you must creep along above 
the brook on planks. This narrow passage has the 
awful name of * Hell," and a particular opening in the 
roof, from its resemblance to a chimney, is called the 
Devil's Kitchen. Among these remarkable rocks, we 
wound our way for some few miles, stopping only to look 
at certain curious forms which they assumed. At 



320 MEHOTB OF MRS. SHEBMAN. 

length, after passing through a forest of firs, we came 
upon the Bastei, a name given to a most wonderful 
mass of rock. It consists of one narrow hlock, 800 
feet above the Elbe, which flows at its base. Beyond 
the brink of the precipice, yon stand and command 
a prospect of unexampled beauty — ^altogether unique. 
Similar precipitous blocks rise behind you ; and all 
along the same bank of the river, little bridges are 
thro¥m across^ to enable travellers to pass from one to 
the other, many of them so frail and narrow, that it 
seemed as if one shaking thunder-storm would throw 
them all down ; I quaked as I crossed them, and 
hovered on pinnacles upwards of 800 feet high. Trees 
grow more or less on the summits, and in the in- 
terstices of most, and give a most delicious, luxurious 
appearance to the whole scene. After exploring as 
much as time would allow these lovely scenes, we set 
out in the same style for Eonigstein, (the only fortress 
in Europe which has never been taken,) built on one of 
the singular masses of rock which rise suddenly from the 
plain. We had to recross the Elbe, and for want of a 
seat, I placed myself in my chair, which was conveyed 
with us ; at the other side, the men took me up as I 
was, to lift me out of the boat, but one of them slipped 
his foot, and nearly let me fall into the Elbe ; a wet 
foot and leg were aU he encountered. For three hours 
more we pursued our way to Eonigstein, poor husband 
wonderftilly strong and fresh, notwithstanding his long 
walk. Before we entered the fortress we sent our pass- 
ports, and in the mean while took dinner at the little hotel 



MEMOIR Of MBS. SHERMAN. 321 

at its base. I playfully said to the maid in attendance, 
referring to my chair, I am like England's Qaeen on her 
throne ; she seemed astonished and began examining my 
shawl and dress, concluding that I was at least some 
extraordinary person. We told her to get us what she 
pleased for dinner, and in a very short time, she pro- 
duced some * Bier kalt chaale,' which we had never 
before tasted, and as it was served up in a soup plate, 
took it to be a German soup, till we found our mis- 
take. Some fresh trout and cutlet, helped us to make 
an excellent meal, and we set off again for the fortress. 
The circuit is a mile and a half, the scenery exquisite. 
The well is upwards of 800 feet deep, a lamp and a 
small bucket were let down, and by catching the rays of 
the sun on a glass, we saw the water rippling below. I 
helped to draw up the bucket, the water was delicious. 
We took coffee at the little inn, and entered the car- 
riage to return to Dresden by Pima. The sunset was 
most exquisite, making the Eonigstein, and the masses 
of rock around, Hockstein, Lilienstein, and Holmstein, 
appear to be brilliantly illuminated. From the latter. 
Napoleon attempted to reach Eonigstein, with the can- 
non, which with great difficulty he had raised up its 
precipitous sides, but finding every shot fall short of the 
fortress, and that it was naturally impregnable, he was 
obliged to relinquish the effort. Each of these singular 
mounds of rock, has its own romantic legend, for the 
mountains of Saxony and Bohemia, are the cradles of 
Onomes and Eobolds, the native country of tale-telling 
tradition. Bussel says, ' when from some elevated crag 

p 3 



32) MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAIT. 

you overlook the whole mass, and see these stiflF bare 
rocks rising from the earth, manifesting though now dis- 
joined, that they once formed one body, yon might think 
yourself gazing on the skeleton of a perishing world, all 
the softer parts of which have mouldered away, and left 
only the naked indestructible frame-work/ The Elbe 
wound its way at the feet of these rocks, through the 
whole lovely rich valley ; and the golden sunset pro- 
duced the most striking eflfect on the whole scene. 
Then appeared the moon, which brilliantly lighted us 
home, where we arrived about ten. The whole day was 
one of singular enjoyment, my dear husband, though 
fatigued by the unexpected walk of probably fifteen 
miles, and much of it up hill and very rough, was really 
better for it, and my quiet way of travelling immensely 
refreshed me, as I had no exertion whatever, except 
in walking over the Eonigstein ; the mountain air, 
scenery, and entire quiet did me more good than any 
thing since I left home. 

" Next morning the Sabbath, August 2nd, went to 
the English church, and heard a good sermon, on * If 
peradventure he will give them repentance," but so 
abominably read, that it took away all interest from the 
congregation. The building had been an old Lutheran 
church, portraits of Luther and Huss, hung on each 
side of the altar. We remained to partake of the com- 
munion, which I much enjoyed as quite unexpected, 
and for the first time knelt by my husband'^s side on 
such an occasion. Here we mingled prayers, and faith, 
and hallowed feasting, with numbers of the same family 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 323 

in this far distant land. We retomed to our hotel just 
in time for dinner, and found the band of music very 
uncongenial after the privileges of the morning. No 
letters arrived, which made me very anxious about dear 
papa. Our apartments looked out into the great square 
through which most of the carriages passed ; the noise 
quite bewildered me, and we were thankful to take tea 
in the Salle for quiet. It was the first day of some feast 
connected with target shooting, at which all the Royal 
family are present ; it lasts eight days, thus securing two 
Sundays for these worldly amusements. How can we 
sufficiently value our own beloved country, and the pri- 
vileges of Protestantism, which discountenances what 
Popery encourages. 

August 3rd. — " We left Dresden at half-past five, to 
take the train for Bautzen. The morning was lovely, 
and early as it was all seemed busy, even ladies were 
availing themselves of the cool air for walking exercise* 
It is a beautiful line of railway, both as to scenery and 
conveyances. The banks of the cuttings are turfed in 
ornamental squares, and looked very refreshing. In 
our carriage, a very polite German with an insignia 
ribbon in his button-hole, paid us great attention. At 
Bautzen, I went for shade under a sort of shed, 
where many tables were spread for refreshment, as the 
train arrived at half-past seven, a hungry time — the 
place was speedily filled with men and women, whose 
appetites were sharpened by the air of the morning. We 
engaged a Lohnkutscher, to convey us to Gorlitz, and 
notwithstanding the heat, enjoyed the ride. We lunched 



324 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

a little after eleven at Lobau, where gathering clouds 
threatened thunder — we hoped to outride it, but it 
became thicker and darker, and when the horses had 
reached the larger half of their way to Gorlitz, we put 
the carriage under cover, and anticipated the storm's 
approach. But He whose eye never ceased to watch over 
us, bid it spend itself on Gorlitz, while we were waiting 
for it to burst over our tww sheltered heads. A billiard 
room was all the accommodation the little Inn afforded. 
We took some delicious coffee, for the good of the house, 
and I gave the coachman some, with great success, to 
sweeten his rather souring temper. The railway which 
was in the course of formation from Bautzen to Breslau, 
was an interesting object, as the road kept it in view 
nearly the whole way. Some parts over which it passes 
are very picturesque and its viaducts noble works of art 
We entered Gorlitz about four, p.m., and drove to the 
Hirsch Hotel, where they gave us a large apartment, 
but the two beds were placed in a recess, concealed by a 
muslin curtain, which made it as close a bed-room as 
any German could desire. 

August 4tih, — " At five in the morning, we took the 
coup6 in the Eilwagen, with the guard as our ouly com- 
panion. The journey was very hot and fatiguing, but 
much relieved by our favourable places. At last we 
reached the long desired Hirschberg, where we obtained 
a delicious dinner, and took extra post to Buchwald. 
Storms were all around us, and we seemed to be going 
into the thickest of them, but they broke off before us, 
and left lovely sunshine which made the mountains and 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. S25 

the sweet Tyrolese houses in the vale of ErdmansdorfiF, 
look most enchanting. It seemed difficult to realise 
that I was on the spot; which had been a subject of 
such great interest to me, from the descriptions I had 
heard of these good people. We crossed a wooden 
bridge in the vale of ErdmannsdorflF, and turned to the 
left, when the postilion's continuous blast told us we 
were in Buchwald, and in a few minutes more we saw 
the venerable old mansion. The Countess and her sister 
not only welcomed us, but came to the carriage and 
affectionately embraced me. One look at them, told me 
they were no ordinary persons. The loveliness and 
dignity of their countenances and manners, with the 
perfect simplicity and neatness of their dress seemed 
to say, their worth was n6t merely external. Putting 
my arm in hers, the dear Countess conducted me, with 
the alacrity of youth, to two large sitting-rooms and 
a bed-room, each commanding a different view, which 
she had appropriated to our use. The first person that 
appeared, to uncover my boxes, was a pretty barefooted 
maid, with a Silesian cap. She speedily left, and I was 
glad to be alone, and endeavoured to realize the dream 
that I really was at Buchwald. I had just finished my 
toilette, when the dear Countess herself tapped at the 
door, and announced that tea was ready. We entered 
the drawing-room, when we were introduced to * my ex- 
cellent young friend, Theophilus Reichell, a minister 
among the Brethren at Gnadenfrey," who speaks English. 
Then we were shown the picture of our ' Surrey Chapel/ 
and a portrait of its pastor ; then the splendid view 



326 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

from the * bow window/ We were soon qtiite at home, 
and, putting together all the French I could summon, 
I began to talk to the dear sister, Carolina, whose ten- 
derness to my bad speaking encouraged me to proceed, 
and by the aid of German and English, where French 
failed, I formed a triple cord of friendship, I trust never 
to be broken. At nine o'clock we were summoned to 
the prayer-room, where we found one of the Countess's 
schoolmasters seated at a seraphine, and on one side 
men-servants, on the other women. The Countess took 
her seat at the table, and commenced with a hymn, 
many verses of which were sung ; each hymn has its 
melody, and it is presumed that both are familiar to all 
good members of the church ; then a chapter was read, 
in a peculiarly sweet voice, by the Countess, one more 
hymn was sung, and when we were singing the last 
verse all arose, the singing ceased, and we remained 
in silence for about half a tninute. The Countess 
took my arm, and led me back to the drawing-room, 
which was a signal for all to leave. In a few moments. 
Coiner, the butler, gave each of us a large square table 
mat, with a small salt-cellar, a knife, fork, and spoon, 
showing that supper was coming. Soup, chicken, &c., 
were handed. We all took what we liked, and then, being 
much fatigued, I retired to bed. The Countess, lighting 
my candle, and taking my arm, led me into my room, 
charging me not to make my toilette in the morning, as 
it was not necessary. We assembled in the Hall, whence 
we were led to a sweet room in the garden, adjoining the 
orangerie, for breakfast. When the meal was finished. 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 327 

we were told that the little carriage, which the Count 
had made for riding about the grounds, would be at our 
service for the same purpose. It is a sort of Irish car, 
very narrow and light, with only one seat, hung very 
low, the back of which turns, so that we could sit on 
which side we pleased, according to the prospect, and 
visit places where an ordinary carriage could not enter. 
We were soon seated with the dear Countess, and driving 
through winding walks, woody hills, and scrambling rocks, 
went first to the tower. From the spot where the car- 
riage stopped, to the summit, is a very easy walk, and the 
view greatly preferable to that of the Schneekoppe. The 
Tyrolese colony ; the Royal Palace at ErdmannsdorflF, 
with its delightful lake and grounds ; a large cotton fac- 
tory ; several churches, with lovely villages and small 
towns ; together with an endless variety of most fantas- 
tically formed and richly-clothed hills ; the whole range 
of mountains which separate Silesia from Bohemia, called 
the Riesengebirge (Giant Mountains,) of which the 
Schneekoppe is the chief, nearly five thousand feet high; 
and valleys of exquisite beauty, well cultivated, and 
clothed with abundant crops, which are all seen from 
this elevated spot — ^form one of the most pleasing and 
splendid prospects I have seen in any country. The 
only defect in the panorama is the absence of any great 
river or large sheet of water. 

" We returned and dressed for dinner at two. After 
dinner, we heard that a party was waiting to see the 
Countess, consisting of the aged Count C, the Rev. J. 
Tippelskirche, formerly chaplain to Chevalier Bunsen, and 



828 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

his wife and wife's sister, the Goant's daughters. The 
Countess said she conld receiye no visitors till she knew if 
her ' dear Prince William ' was coming, and would take 
leave of her before he left Fischbach for Mayence, and, 
while in conversation, a little note came firom him, say- 
ing, he and Prince Waldemar would drink tea with her 
about seven. Knowing that it was a friendly visit, and 
that he had within a few months lost his pious and most 
devoted Princess, the bosom friend of the Countess, we 
intended to keep out of the way, but the Countess said, 
' by no means, he is happy to see any friends who are 
visiting me, though he would not like any invited to 
meet him ; all that is necessary is a black dress, on 
account of the recent death, and no colour.' I soon 
settled this matter, most fortunately having travelled 
in a black satin, and was, according to the Countess's 
opinion, as ' nice as possible.' We determined, with her 
consent, not to appear until called for, when tea was 
ready. At seven, a carriage and four arrived, with Prince 

William, his son Prince Waldemar, and Count , 

his aide-de-camp. The two sisters greeted them at 
the carriage, talked for some time with them, and 
then adjourned to the seat by the waterfall, where we 
had previously taken coffee with the party above-named. 
When tea was ready, Theophilus came to fetch us, we 
were then introduced to the party in the garden, and 
went with them to the saloon, where we sat and chatted, 
and drank our tea. When retiring to the mansion, the 
Prince William expressed his hope that I had another 
shawl, and repeated to the Countess his fear that I 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. . 329 

should take cold, as it was damp by the water. I felt 
his kindness, and only regretted that I could not talk 
to him much, from the difficulty of commanding lan- 
guage. Babel has done much to mar. our happiness. 
We returned to the house, where we sat round the table 
in the drawing-room, the Countess placing me next to 
the Prince. When the late fearful battles occurred in 
India, Prince Waldemar was travelling in that country, 
on a tour of pleasure ; he offered his services, and greatly 
distinguished himself, for which he has since been created 
General. He was so kind as to bring with him, by the 
request of the Countess, numerous beautiful sketches, 
which he had made of Indian scenery, &c., which we 
inspected, and he, in the most affable manner, explained. 
He speaks English tolerably well, and has gained it all 
in India. He shewed us a letter, beautifully written in 
Canarese, from native princes, with a translation in Eng- 
lish, thanking him for his zeal and exertions in their 
rescue ; it was accompanied by presents of several elegant 
native productions. He is a young prince of great pro- 
mise, most engaging manners, and condescending kind- 
ness. At nine they left, kindly shaking hands with us ; 
and thus passed as friendly and chatty an evening as I 
ever spent with my equals. 

Thursday 6tL — "The Countess drove us to the 
Abbey, a gothic building, which she erected in her own 
grounds, to receive the remains of her husband ; the 
vault is open, and you see the Count's coffin through 
an iron grating. Over the vault is a beautiful chapel ; 
a sitting-room fitted up with every suitable convenience, 



330 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHE&MAN. 

in which she annually spends the birth-day of her hus- 
band ; rooms are also appropriated to servants who take 
care of the Abbey, show it to strangers, and attend 
on her when she visits it. The scenery is very lovely. 
The Pavilion is at some little distance from the Abbey. 
We were conducted thither by a path behind, from 
whence a door was opened, which admitted us to the 
colonade, and introduced us to one of the most en- ' 
chanting and bewitching prospects the eye ever beheld. 
The entablature is supported by pillars of marble, and 
bears this inscription : — * Conjugi Dulcissimoa, F. D. M. 
Comp. V. Reden, 1804.' We then drove to the Moss 
Cottage, a delicious summer-house, and kept in excel- 
lent order ; from the large windows of which were pre- 
sented scenes of excessive splendour. After dinner, we 
rode to ErdmannsdorflF, and went over the whole of the 
palace, the rooms of which are nothing extraordinary. 
The furniture is neat, and many things are very ele- 
gant, but the interior does not give the idea of a palace. 
The Duchess of Liegnitz has a large house just by the 
palace. She was a Count's daughter, whom the old 
King marriecT after the death of his Queen. He would 
not make her his Queen by marriage, but merely his 
companion and protector, and created her Duchess of 
Liegnitz. I presume the Prussian laws allow such an 
union, but it is not after English taste, nor according to 
the laws of God. 

. " On Friday, we set off with the Countess, to visit 
Wang, a village about half-way up to the Schneekoppe. 
At Krummhiibel, chairs and bearers were provided for 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 331 

the ladies, to carry them up the mountain — ^sweet, mag- 
nificent scenes opening on every turn of the path. The 
church at Wang is singularly pretty. It was originally 
a cl^ch in Norway, built of wood, and above 800 years 
old ; the King heard it was to be sold for a compara- 
tively small sum, and ordered its purchase. It was 
conveyed, at great expense, to this exquisite spot ; the 
old carving restored, every defective part repaired, and 
beautifully finished according to the original design, and 
now forms a most charming and unique object. For 
four months in the year, the people who live at this 
elevation have little communication with the valley, in 
consequence of the snow, and the good King erected it 
for their benefit, has placed a warm-hearted evangelical 
clergyman there, to feed their souls with the bread of 
life, and a schoolmaster to instruct their children. The 
schoolhouse and parsonage form one continuous building, 
which is ornamented by a fountain playing in front, and 
such plants and flowers as will grow or blossom at an 
elevation of above 2500 feet above the sea. The church 
has external corridors, to make it warmer in winter, 
but they lessen the size of the interior. I played the 
oigan, and we had the pleasure of singing that verse, — 

* Come, Holy Spirit, heavenly dove, 
With all thy quickening powers ; 

Come, shed ahroad a Saviour's love, 
And that shall kindle ours.' 

to ' Intercession.' At the request of the Countess and 
the good minister, my dear husband ofiered up a prayer 
in the pulpit, for the glory of Christ, to fill the house. 



332 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

while we all knelt, and nnited heartUy with him. We 
then sang the Doxology to the Old Hundredth ; and 
afterwards went to the parsonage to dine, returning with 
a beautiful sunset to tea, at Buchwald, aft'Or a day of 
great refireshment, with pious minds and cheerful engage- 
ments. how good is my God, to prepare such a world 
for my enjoyment, and to give an invalid the means, 
without fatigue and distress, of participating with others 
who are in health in its abounding pleasures ! 

Saturday. — " The Countess drove us to Schmiede- 
berg, a very pretty town, at the distance of about three 
English miles from her seat. After making purchases, 
and giving orders for embroidery work, which is wrought 
here very cheaply, we called on Dr. Weigel, to consult 
him on my case. My cough has certainly been worse 
the last three nights, which I attribute to the quantity 
of water immediately around Buchwald. He examined 
me with the stethoscope, and pronounced that my lungs 
are not affected ; but that the membrane which lines 
them is inflamed, and very irritable, and that, without 
great care, it is not unlikely the inflammation will 
spread to the lungs. He prescribed for me a powder, 
which I am to take repeatedly. If it please my Heavenly 
Father, for my children's sake, and that of my dear 
husband, whose social domestic disposition would miss 
his wife, imperfect as she is, I should be glad to be 
spared ; and if I can be useful to souls, I would not 
selfishly wish to go to heaven ; but for me, to die will he 
gam. In the evening, we went over one of the lakes in 
the Countess's grounds, to the Weissen-house, another 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 333 

beautiful cottage, planted in a retired and lonely, spot, 
and returned by a winding path to tea, in the orangerie. 

Sunday, — "Went to church in the morning with 
the Countess and family, but understood very little. It 
is good to be where God is worshipped, and my only joy 
was, that I could raise .my heart for the worshippers, 
to Him, who is not, as I am, distracted with many 
languages. The singing was congregational, and well- 
sustained, but there is a great sameness in the German 
melodies, and breaking the tune at the end of every line 
is not grateful to an English ear. The sermon was not 
to the taste of the Countess, as it wanted heart, and 
abounded in repetitions. Four ladies dined with us, one 
of whom was governess to the present Princess of 
Bavaria, and the Princess Elizabeth, an exceedingly 
intelligent and interesting woman, for whom the Crown 
has handsomely provided, It was truly a Sabbath meal, 
and Christian conversation, without formality, was 
cheerfully sustained. 

Monday. — " Having rained hard in the night, it was 
too damp to take our intended tour to the Josephine. 
We therefore strolled in the grounds, with our dear 
friend Theophilus, finding new beauties in this world 
and the next. A Bohemian Catholic, seventy-eight years 
of age, has been staying here for a few days. He is, 
undoubt'Cdly, a pious man, though he has not yet relin- 
quished the papal errors. For circulating the Scriptures, 
and writing and translating tracts, to benefit and en- 
lighten his benighted countrymen, he had been six times 
imprisoned by the magistrates, and so persecuted by his 



■•■^i^iP^^saww^BI^ 



334 MEMOIB OF MES. SHEBMAK. 

Catholic family, with whom he lived, that he had eleven 
times previously taken refuge beneath the roof of the 
Countess, and this flight made the tweKth. A fort- 
night after, his family finding themselves greatly incon- 
venienced for want of him, particularly as he conducted 
the education of his grandchildren, who were running 
wild in his absence, sent a£fectionate letters, entreating 
his return, promising the cessation of all hostilities, 
and the gratification of every wish. Countess Eeden 
thought it might do his family good, and serve the vene- 
rable old man, if some of them came to fetch him. An 
invitation was therefore sent, which brought his daughter 
and two of her children, who remained two or three 
days, while the sweet Countess lent her carriage and 
servants, to show them what was to be seen. It was 
quite overwhelming to see the love and kindness of that 
dear woman to this group ; how earnestly she talked to 
them on filial duty, and strove to gain their afiections 
for their honoured parent, and for Christ. Impressions 
that will not easily be eflFaced were made, and their gra- 
titude at parting was truly afiFecting. 

" We found groups of persons continually in the 
grounds, as Buchwald is one of the lions of Silesia, and 
the Countess allows all to come who choose ; her inti- 
macy with the King draws in many who hope to get 
a peep at him, when at Erdmannsdorfil His Majesty 
recently fitted up, and presented to her a beautiful half- 
circular seat of marble, with a grijQQin at each comer, and 
steps ascending to it ; one of her favourite shady walks 
is close by, and thus many who go to see the Eonig 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 336 

Sitz, see also its lovely proprietress, who is little less an 
object of interest than his Majesty. The widow of 

General P , and her fonr accomplished daughters, 

drank tea with us, and afterwards united with the whole 
family, at the ' missionary prayer hour,' which was 
kept this evening, when good Theophilus gave some in- 
formation about the Brethren's Missions ; and every 
person, including the servants, contributed something 
to the Lord's cause. 

Tuesday. — " The Countess drove us to Fishbach, 
the beautiful seat of Prince William; where we were 
heartily welcomed by his Royal Highness Prince Wal- 
demar. After some friendly and interesting conver- 
sation on the political and religious state of the popu- 
lation, we went over the Schloss. It is a fine building, 
famished in a princely style, with many memorials of 
England. We then drove to the Swiss cottage, roman- 
tically situated on the summit of a hjll, with a moun- 
tain of considerable elevation in its rear, commanding 
most lovely and varied scenery. It has a large state 
room, and a number of small rooms fitted up with every 
accommodation for the Court, when the Royal family 
are in the neighbourhood. On our return home, we 
visited the Marian Cottage, an elegant little structure 
covered with roses and sweet blooming flowers, placed 
in a valley, but in a situation that gives the most 
perfect view of the mountain range. It was the spot 
which the late pious Princess often selected for retire- 
ment and meditation, and in which she spent many of 
her evenings. Nothing can well be conceived better 



336 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

adapted to excite devotion and gratitude, when the 
strings of the heart are touched by the Spirit of God. 
Dr. Weigel dined with us, and still gives me hope. I 
cannot but cherish it, and as nature and grace both 
incline to its exercise, it may please Him in whose hand 
my times are, to favour me with length of days ; but I 
am not anxious, my only wish is to do and suffer the 
will of God. 

Wednesday, — " We drove to Warmbrunn, a pretty, 
retired and much frequented German watering-place, 
lying in one of the most romantic valleys of the Rie- 
sengeberge, and had the pleasure of paying our respects to 
Count Schaffgotsch, the princely proprietor of the district. 
The springs are lukewarm and sulphureous, and con- 
sidered very efficacious in cases of gout and rheumatism. 
We saw in the Grafliche Bath, not fewer than twenty 
persons of both sexes, in suitable dresses, bathing at 
one time. After surveying the place for two hours 
while the horses rested, we proceeded to a spot, (the 
name of which I now forget) where the good Countess 
had written for a chair to be in readiness, in which I 
rode, and richly enjoyed, without fatigue, the exquisite 
scenery. We went for a few miles by the side of the river 
Zacken, with rocks and boulders in its bed in terrible 
confusion. Its waters occasionally disappear suddenly, 
and cease to flow for several hours ; after which they 
as suddenly appear, and assume their usual level, a 
phenomenon not yet satisfactorily accounted for. We 
ascended to the Eockenfall ; picturesque, but not equal 
to some we have seen. We went out of our way to call 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAK. 337 

at the Rettnngsliaiis, (the house of salvation,) where 
orphans and children of the lowest and most miserable 
description are taken from evil habits and example, and 
clothed, fed, and educated by a pious man, who is the 
personification of faith and self-denial. He believed as 
he told us, that he had a work to do, and that God 
^ helping him, he could do it. Without any means but 
those which God sent him, mostly from persons he did 
not know, he set about building a house for his destitute 
children, a few of whom he had already gathered. He 
entered it before the walls were dry, without a bed, with 
only one spoon for seven persons, and scarcely a scrap of 
furniture of any description ; yet he laboured on amidst 
incredible difficulties and hardships, till God sent sup- 
plies, and now he supports, educates, and trains to 
industrial habits above fifty children, precisely on the 
same principles of confidence in God. He is often in 
difficulties, but supplies are sure to come in time for 
I relief; and the children are trained to this dependence, 

i for they are told the circumstances of want, and assem- 

bled for devotion when it occurs, and for thanksgiving 
when the answer from heaven is sent by some human 
hand. Once he was almost in despair, no supplies in 
i the house, every source of help drained ; the children 

and himself had been very many hours without food, 
but they had scarcely left the Divine throne, where in 
weeping and pleading they had presented their sad case^ 
when the post brought an anonymous letter with the 
Berlin post-mark, enclosing a note for a thousand dol- 
lars. Such is the reward of faith and humble labour 



J 



338 MEMOIE OF MBS. SHSBKAH. 

in the service of a gracioiis Master ! We took leave 
of the children after my husband had addressed them by 
an interpreter, and dropped an offering into their trea- 
sury, deeply interested and instructed by the visit. We 
now ascended to the Zaekenfull, fiur more beautiful than 
the former — ^viewed both from below and above — ^it ex- 
hibits as the water tBlls over the rocks, a spedes of lace 
work indescribably delicate. The granite rocks not above 
twenty feet wide, between which the water falls, seem as 
if cut straight down with a saw for above 100 yards. 
From thence we went to the Josephine, the Bohemian 
glass factory, and inspected and purchased several of 
their beautiful productions. Though far behind us in 
machinery, and rapidity of manufacture, they manage to 
excel us in this singular species of many coloured glass. 
I thought we should have been jolted out of the car- 
riage, or overturned many times by the abominable 
gutters across the road, so common in all the hilly parts 
of Germany. We returned to Warmbmnn to tea, and 
arrived at dear Buohwald, by half-past nine, after a most 
delightftd and not over-fatiguing excursion. 

Thursday. — " The Countess drove us to Stonesdorff, 
the seat of the Princess Reus, her niece. It is not in a 
good situation for prospect, and has nothing particularly 
attractive, except its honoured and pious inmate, who is 
a blessing to her neighbourhood. We chatted very plea*- 
santly on the heavenly country, and found a heart in 
the Princess to love Christ's sheep wherever they are 
situated. Though I have no expectation of meeting her 
again on earth, I shall wdcome her to the house, where 



MEHOIB OF MBS. SHEEMAK. 339 

are to be gathered all of every rank who haye loved and 
served my Saviour. After luncheon with the Princess, 
we visited in onr way to Buchwald, the Tyrolese school, 
where we heard the children sing very prettily, and in 
good time. From the little examination we were able to 
make, they seemed as well instructed as children of their 
own age and circumstances in our own country. Their 
knowledge of scripture, and scripture history was exceed- 
ingly good. 

" We reserved the evening of the day, for a visit to 
two or three of the Tyrolese houses and families, which 
are located on land approprisjtted to them by the late 
King of Prussia. It appears that the Bible had secretly 
made its way to the Zillerthal, a pastoral valley in the 
Tyrol, and produced most gracious effects on the minds 
of its inhabitants. Believing its sacred records, they of 
course became Protestants, and sought of Prince Metter- 
nich, permission to erect a church, according to Austrian 
law, which allows one to be built wherever there are a 
hundred Protestants. But he rejected their petition, and 
commenced by his agents a series of persecutions against 
them. Thirsting for liberty to worship God according to 
the dictates of their consciences, they dispatched two or 
three trusty men of their number, who had taken the 
lead in zeal and sufferings, to the late Eing of Prussia. 
With great difficulty they obtained passports for the pur- 
pose, and set out, with faith and prayer, on an enterprise 
no less honourable than hazardous. They obtained an 
interview with the good King, who received the deputa- 
tion with much feeling and kindness: they told him 

q2 



S40 MEHOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAN. 

that they asked only for protection and religious liberty ; 
wonld he grant them these privileges, and allow them to 
emigrate into his territory ? Not only did his Majesty 
grant their request, but welcomed them among his sub- 
jects, and set apart a considerable quantity of land, 
belon^ng to his estate at Erdmannsdorff, which they 
were to purchase at a small sum. It was his intention 
to have given them this land, but it was wisely overruled 
by the Countess, who su^ested that it might create 
jealousy among his subjects, if foreigners, even under 
such afflictive circumstances, were more generously 
treated than themselves. When the time came for a 
detachment of the families to arrive, the King solicited 
the Countess to undertake the oversight of them, and 
become a mother to them, — a request which she begged 
the Ein^ not to press, — but he insisted on its advan- 
tages to them, and urged such reasons of personal grati- 
fication to himself, that she consented. His Majesty 
then wrote a letter ' to his good and kind subjects of 
the faithful town of Schmiedeberg,"* urging them to re- 
ceive these Protestant emigrants, and provide for them 
as well as their circumstances would permit. Above 
800 men, women, and children, came to the town as one 
instalment, and every nerve was exerted by the kind 
inhabitants to respond to the wishes of the King, by 
providing them with food, lodging, and labour, till they 
could be temporarily settled on their land. About 600 
more came at an interval of some months ; and in a town 
consisting of only 3500 inhabitants, such an influx was 
not provided for without great care, anxiety and devoted- 



MEMOI& OF MBS. SHEBMAIf. 341 

oiess. Eveiy spare room in their dwellings^ and every 
bam and out-hoose which could be appropriated for 
their dormitories was cheerfully fitted up ; provisions 
poured in as gifts from all quarters, and some began 
to fear that such a life of dependence would decrease 
their taste for daily labour. They soon, however, com- 
menced building their picturesque dwellings, and in a 
comparatively short time, were settled in their own 
locality, and the land brought under cultivation. After 
a period of not more than ten years, by industry and 
care, most of them are now in comfortable circumstances, 
and not a few of the more thrifty have accumulated 
property. 

. " The houses of the Tyrolese are large, handsome 
buildings, providing under one roof, rooms for the family, 
stabling for the horses, sheds for the cows and cattle, 
and all the farming stock and produce of their fields. 
They have large stones on the roofs at regular inter- 
vals, to prevent the high winds from stripping them 
in winter. The Tyrolese generally, and specially those 
located at Erdmannsdorfif, are a handsome race, the men 
tall, and well formed, and the women pretty, though 
generally inclined to coarseness. The costumes both of 
the men and women are tasteful and becoming. We 
were welcomed into their houses, accompanied by the 
good Countess, whom they saluted very respectfully with 
* How do you do, mother V and seemed delighted to see 
her. She has been a mother, indeed, to them, pur- 
chasing large quantities of cloth, and other articles, and 
letting them have them under cost price ; gaining for 



342 MBMOIB OF 1IB& SHSBMAH. 

them a dmicb, and the apjKnntment of an eyangdical 
minister, and eztenrnve Bpiritnal and tonpoial pnYileges. 
When my hnsband asked their leader if he conld speak 
English, he replied, pointing to the Goontess, ' No, bnt 
my mother can.' By her aid, he entered into a long 
examination of their religions sentiments and experience, 
and it was very refreshing to find them so well grounded 
in the &ith and hope of the gospel I know not when 
I have spent a more deUghtfnl hoar. The Gonntess, 
however, seemed to think their piety had declined — 
prosperity had not been so &yoarable to its growth as 
persecution and suffering. I cannot help believing that 
though its freshness and joy had abated, its reality was 
manifest, and God knows how by trials of another kind, 
to promote its growth ; but the style of ministry they 
hear, as far as I could jndge of it, does not appear 
to be very quickening — I think I should soon become 
dead under it. 

Friday, \Uh. — " The Countess drove us to Bursh- 
berg, to her shepherd's house. It has a pretty cottage 
attached to it, containing four rooms on the ground floor, 
and two above. Sir J. Riddell, with his family, resided 
here for four months, to enjoy the beauties of the 
romantic scenery, to which he was no stranger. The 
Countess related to us the pleasing circumstance, which 
commenced a friendship, that has now endured without 
a breach for nearly forty years, and which illustrates her 
lowly .character. One day, while trimming some flowers 
in the grounds at Buchwald, she saw her gardener accom- 
panying a gentleman and his servant, and as they passed 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 343 

her, she said to him in English, ' Is this your first 
time in these parts ¥ He was much surprised to hear 
himself addressed in English, and replied that he had 
been amusing himself by taking views of the lovely 
scenery — ^the Countess inspected them, and immediately 
felt they were the pencillings of no ordinary genius. 
Her plain dress did not give him the idea that she was 
the Countess ; yet her manners were so courtly, that he 
could not class her with inferior persons, and to gain the 
important information, he expressed a strong desire to 
see the lady for whom the Pavilion was built, and the 
gentleman who erected it^ and placed that inscription 
over it. * You oon see him," repUed the Countess, ^ if you 
will come and dine with him to-day/ — ^he consented, and 
gave his name, ' James Biddell of Scotland." When 
she returned, she. told the Count, who had strong par- 
tialities for Englishmen, that she had invited a Scotch- 
man to dine with him, at which he was much delighted, 
but the house was very full of company of the highest 
rank, and as the country waa at that time the seat 
of war, they suspected that in her kindness she might 
have invited a spy. The belligerent parties had con- 
cluded an armistice, th&l: the vale of Hirsdiberg, which 
included Buchwald, should be exempted from the ope- 
rations of war; therefore many families had fled to 
this vale, and crowded' their friends' houses for safety 
and comfort* However, at the hour appointed, an ele- 
gant English carriage drove up with a servant in livery, 
— ^whioh at once silenced all objections, — ^a hearty wel- 
come was given by the Count to his guest, the relatives 



314 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

and friends soon became acquainted with him, and in- 
stead of visiting them only for a day, he stayed three 
weeks, and formed a friendship which has ksted to this 
hour in all its original freshness. Sir James has in- 
scribed his gratitade in the rock at the back of this 
cottage, ' Fur Reden's Gute — Riddel's Danke.' How 
important is the Apostle's maxim, ' Be not forgetful to 
entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained 
angels unawares.' Sir James has taken twenty-nine 
views of the various prospects in the grounds at Buch- 
wald, but they are by no means exhausted, and many of 
the improvements are owing to his taste and advice. 

" The Countess Stolberg having heard of us from 
Countess Reden, came to pay us a visit, and dined with 
us. The magnificent pair of horses to her carriage were 
the finest we have seen out of England. She is a very 
pious and charming Christian— with a simplicity and 
energy that quite delighted us both. •Where piety does 
exist in the upper classes in Germany, it appears to shine 
with great lustre. In the afternoon, she accompanied 
us, with good Theophilus, to the lake, where we were 
rowed for an hour, and on our return, found Baron 
Riedesel, the only brother of the Countess, who, with 
his wife and son, had come on a visit to his sisters. He 
is land Marshal of Saxe Weimar, something, as I under- 
stand it, analogous to our Speaker of the House of 
Commons. He is a very fine, tall man, full of cheer- 
ful wit, a most happy companion, condescending to all 
around him, and of course a general favourite with ser- 
vants and friends. I hope the example of this lovely 



Memoir of mbs. shebman. 345 

fiunily will not be lost upon my habits ; I am sure 
kindness brings its ample reward, not only from others, 
but in its very exercise. 

Saturday 16th. — "Walked with the Countess to 
Querl, a small village beautifully situated, and returned 
over the lake with her brother and nephew. In the 
evening, we went with her to Armsdorflf, to her largest 
farm ; and took tea under an arbour, where we had an 
exquisite view of the mountains, different from all the 
others, we had been favoured to behold. 

Sunday 16th, — " Went to church in the morning, 
the service was not very lively, and the sermon seemed 
to produce but little effect. Oh, for a revival of godli- 
ness in these parts of our Saviour's territory ! Lively 
preaching goes far td make lively hearers. My husband 
is gone to Wang, with the Baron, to hear good Mr. 
Werkentien, and intends early to-morrow morning, to 
commence the ascent of the Schneekoppe. May he be 
preserved and blessed in his journey ! AflBiction makes 
me feel more than ever the briefest separation. But 
we shall be united in our Father's house, and oh ! pre- 
cious fact, ' go no more out for ever.' 

Monday and Tuesday. — "I spent in occasional 
walks in the grounds, and in conversation with these two 
lovely women ; the more I see of them, the more of 
Christ's image appears. Did I ever expect such honour 
and happiness before I reached heaven, as have been 
granted to me in this abode of peace and holiness ! If 
I am to be called early away from my precious family, 
this seems a preparation, in which God would shew me 

Q 3 



346 MEMOIR OF MEa SHBRMAH. 

what saints can be out of heayen^ and wbat I may 
expect to find ihem in heaven. 

Wednesday 19th. — " My husband returned last even- 
ing, delighted with his excursion, and with the Baron, 
who has been an excellent guide, and most cheerful 
companion ; this morning we prepared to leave this 
earthly paradise, endeared to me for its own beauties, 
but especially by the sweets of Christian love. My heart 
was knit doaely to both, more particularly to Miss 
Caroline Riedesel, as I could talk to her in French, 
more than my dear husband could. We do love one 
another with pure hearts fervently. When solicited to 
select a spot for a seat, to be called ^ Sherman's Sitz,' 
she said we must go together there, and so remember 
when absent one from the other, Aat there we sent up 
mutual prayers, for that blessing and presence which is 
' better than life.' At half-past six this morning, we 
took coffee in our room ; the dear Countess, her brother, 
and sister, and Theophilus all joining us. My heart 
was almost too full for utterance, when I pressed for the 
last time those dear cheeks, and said * Ood bless you, 
adieu.' We shook hands with a train of servants at the 
door, and entering the Countess's carriage, were soon on 
our way from Bnchwald to Hirschberg, where we took 
post to Bautzen, and had very nice apartments, but 
little sleep for my cough. 

** We proceeded by railway, to Dresden, and after 
resting a while, went on to Wittenberg, the cradle of the 
Reformation. In the morning, we saw Luther's cell, (as 
they call it,) in the late University, in which he was Pro- 



MfiMOIE OF MJ^S. SHERMAN* 347 

feasor of Divinity and Philosophy. It is now a school 
only, as the University is removed to Halle. Here they 
also shewed us Luther's drinking cup^ and the chair and 
table at which he sat. On the wall is written, ' Peter 
the Great,' with his own hand. We saw the graves of 
Luther and Melancthon, which are covered with bronze 
plates, and the tombs of Frederick the Wise, and John 
the Steadfast, the Electors of Saxony, friends of Luther 
and the Beformation. Outside the Sclhoss Eirche, 
Luther hung up hjis eighty-five, arguments against in- 
dulgences. Opposite to the Towii Hall, is a splendid 
bronze statue of Luther, engraved beneath, ^ If it be the 
word of God it will endure, if of wan th^n it will perish/ 
The spot where he burnt the Bull, by which Leo X. 
condemned his doctrines, and excommunicated him, is 
marked by an iron-railing round an oak, outside the 
Elster gate. 

*' At noon, we proceeded to Bcirlin, where we arrived 
a little before one, and took up our residence at the 
Hotel du Nosi, in that superb street, the Linden. 
During our stay at Buchwald, the Countess stated that 
the King during one of his visits to her, had seen one 
of my dear husband^s books on her table. After 
perusing a few pages, and learning from the Countess 
something of the author, he expressed a wish to see 
him, the next time he came to Silesia. Accord- 
ingly she wrote a letter to inform his Majesty, that 
we were to remain in Berlin, four or five days, and if 
his Majesty wished to see him, he was staying at the 
Hotel du Nord. This letter was enclosed in another, 



848 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

to the Geheimaraxd, or treasorer to the King (M. 
Schoning,) which my husband took to the Minister's 
hotel to deliver, but learning that he was at Potzdam, 
he put it in the post. 

" Next morning 22nd, we called on the Countess 
Scheffer, who accompanied us to see Gosner, the famous 
yeteran preacher. He entertained us with the liveliest 
exhibitions of the gospel, pouring out love to all the 
saints, and related anecdotes of the influence of truth 
on German minds, which were very refreshing ; it was a 
delightful visit. From thence we went to Charlotten- 
berg, a royal chateau of Frederick the Great ; saw the 
Doric Temple, in which are interred, Frederick William 
and his beautiful Queen ; two lovely cenotaphs represent 
them, by Rauchj the sculptor. Texts of Scripture are 
inscribed all round the room. Seven garlands still hang 
there, which were presented by her seven children at her 
death. The building is of polished granite, most beau- 
tiful ! On returning to our hotel, we met one of our 
waiters in breathless haste, who had pursued us to say, 
the King's messenger had arrived to invite my husband 
to dine with his Majesty, at three o'clock, at Charlotten- 
hoflF. We were three miles from Berlin, and it was nearly 
two o^clock, at which hour the train for Potzdam left. 
This was of course mortifying enough, but there was no 
possibility of reaching the palace by two ; and therefore, 
by the advice of our courier, he travelled by courier post, 
and arrived at Oharlottenhoff, just as dinner was con- 
cluded. I rested at home^ — ^scarcely rested — ^for I was 
very anxious to know how the King received him ; and 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAK. 349 

should have enjoyed being in some secret spot to survey 
the whole scene. But I prayed that his visit might not 
be without some gracious effect ; I think God heard me, 
and hope events may justify my confidence. It was 
nearly twelve o'clock before he returned, and though 
my cough had driven me to bed, I could not help listen- 
ing to his most interesting detail, and even when asleep, 
dreaming about it. Lest my memory should betray me, 
I recorded as soon as possible, the more striking parts of 
the delightful interview. He arrived at Charlottenhoff, 
a beautiful summer-house belonging to the Palace of 
Sans Souci, at half-past four, the postilion having driven 
at a very smart pace. The carriage drove through a long 
line of equipages belonging to the guests whom the King 
had invited to the banquet ; a carpet was spread on the 
grass, under the shade of some magnificent trees, and a 
long table placed, at which eighteen persons were seated. 
He gave his card to a short gentleman, in a blue coat 
and red collar, who went back to the table and handed 
it to the King. Immediately the King rose, leaning on 
the arm of this official personage, and advanced to the 
tricoloured rope, which hung in festoons from the posts 
fixed on the edge of the carriage-road, to prevent intru- 
sion on the royal ' preserve.' The rope was unhooked, 
and he was invited to enter ; the King advanced to him, 
and stretching out both his open hands, clasped my 
husband's, saying, ' Oh, dear Sherman, I am glad to see 
you — how was it you did not come earlier ¥ Thanking 
his Majesty for his invitation, and undeserved kindness, 
he explained the circumstances which had painfully 



350 XBIIOIB OF MRS. SHEBUAN^ 

detained Mm from his i»eseiice. Tbe King expressed 
great anxiety lest he had not dined, and ivished him 
to retire into the palace and have some refreshment ; 
bat not liking to lose the society of his Majesty for 
sadi a length of time, he declmed, and the King 
ordered some coffee mth a kind of rc^ to be handed to 
him, of which he partooL The King stood talking to 
him with great familiarity and condescension for a con* 
siderable time, on a yaiiety of interesting topics. Two, 
I specially recollect, because they show bis fedings to be 
fayoorable to evangelical piety. Upon his stating that 
we had that morning had an int^esting visit to Grosner, 
the Eong remarked, ' Ah, Mr. Sherman, I can recollect 
the time when Gbsner was the only evangelical minister 
in Berlin, and now, I thank God, I have twenty who 
preach the gospe), — ^that is an omen of great good to my 
people," He gladly responded to such a sentiment from 
Royal lips, and followed up the remark, by shewing the 
advantages of the gospel in the formation of characta: ; 
fitting all to be good subjects ; but it must have been 
peculiarly refreshing to hear suoh views proclaimed from 
high places, and in the presepce of some whose love 
to spiritual piety might be questioned. 

'^ The other topic related to the influence of the Bible 
on war. The King had been describing, for his informa- 
tion and entertainment, the order and discipline of the 
Prussian army, and particularly the facility with which 
they could concentrate an army to the number of 
200,000 men, in three or four days, at any given point, 
with many other interesting circumstances connected 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. S51 

with their moyements. Thinking it desirable to throw in 
a word for peace, he replied, ^ but your Majesty has done 
much for peace, by circulating the Scriptures. The prin- 
ciples of peace must take root in the hearts which know 
and love the Bible, and if all the world acted upon its 
injunctions, we should find it difficult to raise an army 
any where.' * Yes,' said the King, * I know that ; but 
the time has not arrived when your peace principles can 
be carried out. I had long conversations with that most 
amiable person, Mrs. Fry, on the subject, and, though 
I could not arrive at her conclusions, still no restrictions 
shall be placed on the circulation of the Bible in my 
dominions. I suppose you refer to the Hirschberg Bible, 
but you do me an honour that does not belong to me ; 
it was that dear woman with whom you have been stay- 
ing, Countess Reden, who revised the old edition, saw 
it through the press, wrote the preface, superintended 
it, and circulated many thousand copies. I only gave it 
my sanction. ! my God, what should I do without 
the labours of that devoted person V 

" The King then entered very freely, and with great 
warmth and feeling, into many purely experimental topics, 
such, as my husband remarked, you would ordinarily hear 
from the lips of a person whose mind was imbued with 
the living truths of the gospel, and which gave him the 
impression that he must be one of God's own children ; 
to this conclusion he would have arrived at once, respect- 
ing any one using the same language who had applied 
to him for church membership. After the King had 
stood thus conversing for about a quarter of an hour, h^ 



352 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

said, * You know my nephew, Prince Waldemar/ and 
immediately introducing him, and left them together. 
The Prince then introduced him to Baron Humboldt, 
the distinguished philosopher and traveller, to Bauch, 
the sculptor, and to the four aides-de-camp who were in 
attendance, beside other celebrated personages, whose 
names I forget. After a short time the King returned, 
and asked my husband to accompany him to the gardens 
at the back front of the little palace, which were exceed- 
ingly beautiful, where, in the most affable manner, his 
Majesty pointed out the beauties of the place, and 
entered into very animated conversation, in the course 
of which he said, * As you have been to Charlottenberg 
this morning, I presume you are fond of sculpture V and 
on his replying that he was, ' then I assure you,' said 
the King, * that you have not seen the best of Ranch's 
performances. I should very much wish you to see those 
at Potzdam. Bauch, go with Mr. Sherman, and show 
him your exquisite chiselling ;' and upon his expressing 
his pleasure to do so, he called one of his aides-de-camp, 
* Come, B., it will be a nice exercise for you to go with 
Mr. Sherman and Bauch, and talk English,' which he 
readily did ; and in a few minutes one of the Boyal car- 
riages was driven out, and the favoured party of three 
started for the Mausoleum, in which these statues are 
placed, the King wishing them a pleasant journey, and 
commanding them to return to tea at seven o'clock, to 
the palace of Sans Souci. Every thing had been pre- 
pared for their reception, the old Castellan was wait- 
ing on the steps to conduct them, and a bright sunset 



MEMOIR OF MES. SHEKMAN. 853 

favoured the exhibition, by sending its descending rays 

on a pink curtain, which gives to the statues much the 

appearance of flesh. The figures of the King and Queen 

repose on marble sarcophagi. The face of the latter is 

one of extreme beauty, and an exact likeness. The 

description which Russel gives of the sculptured figure 

at Gharlottenberg, equally applies to this, only that it is 

the exact size of life, and more care has been displayed 

in the finish and the drapery. * The expression is not 

that of dull, cold death, but of undisturbed repose. The 

hands are modestly folded on the breast, the attitude 

easy, graceful, and natural. Only the countenance and 

part of the neck are bare, the rest of the figure is 

shrouded in an ample and extremely well-wrought 

drapery. The great charm of the figure is the decent, 

simple, tranquil air, without any striving after effect. 

I observed no inscription — no pompous catalogue of her 

titles — ^no parading eulogy of her virtues ; the Prussian 

eagle alone, at the foot of the sarcophagus, announces 

that she belonged to the house of Hohenzellem.' M. 

Bauch was exceedingly attentive and polite, giving 

every explanation of its principal characteristics, and 

directing observation to parts which had cost him most 

labour and anxiety, and which he considered superior, 

and rendering the examination of this, his chef d'cBUvrCy 

peculiarly interesting. When they left, my husband 

oflFered a handsome douceur to the Castellan, but, though 

repeatedly urged, he would not receive it, saying that 

' the pleasure he had in shewing them to a friend of his 

Majesty, was ample compensation \' but as I had no 



354 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

daiin to that appellation^ lie did not hesitate to receive 
it when I visited the place on the Tuesday following* 

They then drove throng the palace grounds for some 
miles^ to Sans SoucL After a few minntes, the King 
came to my husband in the garden, and enquired 
solicitotisly about his opinion of the sculpture, to which 
he could reply only in terms of deserved eulogy, and, 
while in conversation, a band of music was heard in 
the distance, concerning which his Majesty remarked, 
^I am glad you have happened to come and see me 
to-day, for it is the anniversary of my Orphan School, 
with which I am sure you will be gratified ; that 
band announces the approach of the children — there 
are 1100 of them— 600 boys, and 500 girls. They 
walk through the palace grounds, pay their respects 
to me, and then return to the village; I have ordered 
all the fountains to play to please them, so that you 
see the grounds to better advantage than on an ordi- 
nary occasion.' In a few minutes, the children entered, 
the band composed of boys^ who preceded, and after 
600 had passed, four abreast, the girls followed. First, 
they walked in front of the palace, in a parterre deco- 
rated with orange and lemon trees, in full bearing, 
with multitudes of beauteous flowers, which scented the 
air with their fragrance, and in the midst of which two 
fountaips of great taste were playing — ^dien passing by 
the graves of the horse and dogs of Frederick the 
Great, they came in front of a terrace, where the King 
and Prince Waldemar had placed themselves. Here 
they began to descend the steps of several terraces. 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 355 

leading down into a valley of great beauty, where a 
fountain shoots its waters 120 feet high, which, caught 
by the wind, fall in most graceful drapery. As they 
passed, the king stroked one child's head, and then 
another, uttering the kindest expressions, either of piety 
or good-will — ^to one, * I hope you read your bible'— 
to another, ' You must love God, He has been so good 
to you' — to a third, * You prayed for me, did you not V 
— to another, ' Ah, you rogue, I see you are tired' — to 
his companion, ^ You think often of your afflicted 
mother, I hope, who needs your aflfection' — to these and 
many other kind expressions, some of which drew tears 
jfrom the bystanders, respectful replies were given. As 
soon as they had passed, the King said to the Prince, 
' Come, Waldemar,' and immediately both descended 
the steps at a smart pace, going before the children, who 
allowed the King and Prince to precede them for some 
distance, and then completely surrounded them. Now 
a scene began which prostrated my husband's notions 
of the sovereign's dignity, and the people's subjection — 
for, in a moment, one girl was seen holding the King's 
arm, another his hand, another hanging on his collar, 
another kneeling and embracing his leg, all crowding to 
get at him, shouting and rejoicing that they had made 
the King and the Prince prisoners — ^while the perspiration 
poured from both, through the heat and fatigue. Yet 
when the King broke away from them, all returned orderly 
to their ranks, struck up a German air, and went joyfully 
through the grounds to their school. My husband de- 
scribes this unexpected occurrence, as one of the most 



S56 MEMOIE OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

interesting scenes he ever witnessed — ^partly firom the 
surprise it ocoasioned — ^but specially as showing the ten- 
dency of a mind enlightened by the gospel, to please as 
well as teach children. As he followed the King at a 
distance, talking to Prince Waldemar, His Majesty 
turned, and said, ^ Ah, Sherman ! what, are you there V 
you have not surely come all this distance to see my 
frolics with the children/ He replied, very characteris- 
tically, wishing, I doubt not, that he could have taken 
his share in the sport, ' 0, your Majesty, it is worth 
going any distance to behold such a pleasant scene. I 
shall remember it to my latest day. God will bless 
your Majesty, for your care and kindness to orphans.' 
* Yes,' said the King, ' it is very pleasant to see them 
snatched from misery, if from nothing worse, well clothed, 
fed, and evangelically educated ; you see they are very 
happy, and have no objection to a gamboL' 

" The King conversed very freely all the way back to 
the Palace, where between the two small fountains, in the 
open air, a large circular table was placed, round which 
the party sat, and tea was served. After tea, the lamps 
were brought, and some German, French, and English 
newspapers, the substance of which Baron Humboldt 
gave to the King in a very clever manner. A book 
written by an Englishman, describing the customs and 
habits of the Berliners, from a residence of some months 
among them, occasioned great merriment from its incor- 
rect quotations of German phraseology, its burlesque, 
and ignorance of the subjects of which it professed to 
treat : one of the volumes, I presume, in this book- 



MEMOIR OF MKS. SHEBMAK. 857 

making age, which is got up to obtain money. During 
the intervals of reading, the King kept up a very lively 
conversation on the habits of the English, and exhibited 
very extensive information on the character of our nobi- 
lity, and on various parts of the scenery of our country. 
He described Ohatsworth and its beauties with great 
minuteness, and sent out now and then a playful saJly 
against some of our eccentric customs. Though several 
took part in the conversation, the King was the chief 
speaker, and with great eloquence and spirit sustained 
his interesting descriptions and sentiments, often appeal- 
ing to my husband for confirmation and explanation, 
for the purpose, very likely; of drawing him out. At 
nine o'clock, supper was announced — ^when the King 
rose, and all retired into the saloon in the Palace — ^the 
provision was suited to a king's table, but nothing that 
could be called extravagant ; and after another pleasant 
hour, spent in lively conversation, the time arrived when 
he must leave for the train. The King observed the 
hour, and rising, walked to the end of the table to meet 
my husband, opened both his hands, and taking his 
hand between them, said, ^ I have been very much gra- 
tified, Mr. Sherman, by your acquaintance to-day ; I 
hope you will never visit Berlin without informing me, 
and that when you do, you will come to see me. One 
of my carriages is at the door to convey you to the train, 

and I have requested Count B to accompany you 

to Berlin, and see you safely to your hotel." This most 
unexpected and gratifying speech completely stopped 
his power of utterance for a moment ; but recovering 



358 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

himself, he ex|»ressed in grateful tenus his deep sense <^ 
his Majesty's condescension and kindness. Thus ended 
a visit, which left the most pleasing impressions of the 
Christian feeling and superior talent of the King of 
Prussia. Had the King known my husband for years, 
he could not have evinced greater attention or respect ; 
and may I not believe that it has been whdly on 
account of his religious character and useful writings, 
that such marked fstvours have been shown him. To 
God be the glory. 

" Berlin is a city well worth a survey ; to my taste, 
it is one of the finest in Europe. Its museum and pic- 
ture gallery contain many very valuable and beautiful 
spedmens, both of sculpture and painting. The Bran- 
denburg Gate is a splendid architectural ornament to the 
city. The car of victory which surmounts it, Buonaparte 
took, in 1806, to Paris, as a trophy of war, but it was 
restored after the battle of Waterloo. In front of the 
Museum is a basin of granite, twenty-two feet in dia- 
meter, cut from an isolated boulder, which rested nearly 
thirty miles from Berlin, and which was brought by a 
flat-bottomed boat on the river Spree to the city, and 
there polished, by means of a steam-engine. Statues of 
Blucher, Bulow, and Schamhorst, stand near the guard- 
house, executed by Ranch, and all of them works of 
great merit. Other statues, some of them not very 
delicate, abound every where. We were much interested 
in the studio of Ranch, especially with the portions of 
the splendid monument he is preparing . to the memory 
of Frederick the Great, which he politely shewed us. 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 359 

25th, — " At half-past seven, we went by railroad, 
with our guide,* to Potzdam, where we breakfasted. 
We saw first the Pfauen Insel, or Peacock Island, wh&ce 
stands a pretty little palace, the hobby of the late King, 
but chiefly remarkable for its exquisite hot^houses, con- 
taining some of the highest palm-trees in Europe. The 
river Havel here expands into a beautiful lake, in the 
midst of which this island is situated ; it abounds with 
the choicest trees and plants, beautifully tended and 
watered by pipes under ground. A miniature frigate, 
presented by William IV. of England to the late King, 
greatly ornaments this spot Next we proceeded to 
Glienecke, a villa belonging to Prince Karl, and most 
tastefully fitted up in the English style. Potzdam 
was founded by the great Elector of Brandenberg, 
but owes all its splendour to Frederick the Great. It 
was the residence of the Prussian princes during the 
rising fortunes of the Boyal house ; it has fotir Boyal 
residences in and around it. In the garrison church, we 
saw the metal sarcophagi of Frederick the Great, and his 
father, William L, who are interred above ground, under 
the pulpit. The church is surrounded with tablets, 
bearing the names of the brave men who sufiered in the 
war of Liberation. We went over the town palace to 
see the relics of Frederick the Great, for it stands 
almost as it did in his days ; the furniture is stained by 
the plates that were put for his dogs, and every cushion 
is almost entirely torn to pieces by the claws of these 

* RadiDg, an intelligent young man, who speaks English, 
and is very attentive. He may be enquired for at any of the 
hotels. 



360 UEHOIB OF MB8. SHSBIUJT. 

animals. A small room is provided with a table, which 
ascends and descends throngh a trap-door in tiie floor. 
When he wished to be retired, the plates and dishes 
were removed by another trap-door : here he wonld dine 
with a Mend, frequently Voltaire, without being ob- 
served, or heard, or attended. We proceeded then to 
the marble palace, Gharlottenhoff, where my husband 
met the King, and I had the spots pointed out where the 
scenes of interest transpired. On our way to the New 
Palace there is a house, built after the perfect model of 
one discovered at Pompeii while the King was there — 
very lovely. The New Palace is most splendid ; it was 
erected by Frederick, by way of bravado, at the end of 
the seven years' war, to show his enemies that his 
finances were not exhausted. One room is entirely lined 
with minerals and shells, but not with great taste. Going 
into the small library, we saw a copy of the philoso- 
phical works of Frederick ; it contains many notes in 
the handwriting of Voltaire. The Kussian colony is 
pretty, from its buildings and Greek church. Next 
came 'Sans Souci," a fairyland, abounding with statues, 
and the choicest plants and trees ; the vines were loaded 
with fruit, and suspended in festoons. The graves of 
Frederick the Great's dogs and favourite horse, with 
which he desired by will to be buried, but was not, are 
here. One fountain only was playing, at the foot of 
the repeated terraces 120 feet high, exquisitely beauti- 
ful ; it was the finest of all. We then hastened through 
the grove, amid statues unnumbered, to our carriage, 
and at a quarter past nine were in our hotel. 

2()th. — " After taking leave of the Countess Scheffer, 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMA17. 361 

and some kind friends, we left Berlin for Magdeburg, at 
five in the afternoon, by the railway. At the station we 
met an historical painter, whom the King had introduced 
to my husband, as a great genius ; he accompanied us 
many miles on our journey, and was extremely polite 
and agreeable. We reached Magdeburg at a quarter 
to ten, and in the morning, visited the Cathedral 
erected between 1211 and 1363 ; one of the noblest 
gothic edifices in northern Germany. There are the 
tombs of the Emperor Otho, and his Queen Editha, 
daughter of Edmund, King of the Anglo Saxons in the 
tenth century — ^a monument also of Archbishop Ernest, 
1497, in bronze, and a beautiful alabaster pulpit, but 
much injured by Napoleon's soldiers, when he made the 
Cathedral a stable for his horses. Peter Vischer's monu- 
ment of Archbishop Ernest, executed in bronze, is a work 
of great merit ; the figures of the twelve apostles around 
it, are worthy of the closest examination, and that also 
of the Frau von Asseburg, a lady who returned home 
the night after her burial, and lived nine years with her 
husband, after this interment. Against the walls are 
the names of the men of Magdeburg, who fell in the 
war of Liberation. Luther went to school here, and 
afterwards sang in the streets at rich men's doors, as 
poor choristers still do, to earn a scanty pittance for his 
support. Here is an immense fortification. The awful 
butchery by Tilly, after seven months' siege in 1631, 
makes one groan for the depravity of human nature, 
and pray that our dear land may never be trodden by a 
foreign army. 



362 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

27tL—" Left Magdebnrg for Brunswick. The in- 
teresting vaults at the Cathedral, we saw before seyen in 
the morning ; they were completed in 1194, by Henry 
the Lion, after his return from the Holy Land. He 
was one of the most illustrious princes of the house of 
Guelph, and from him our royal family descends. Here 
are his tomK and that of Matilda his princess, daughter 
of Henry XL, and sister of Eichard Coeur de Lion : the 
ducal family are buried in the vaults beneath. There 
lie the Duke and his son, — the former fell at Jena, and 
the latter at Waterloo, — ^both surrounded with withered 
garlands brought by their attached countrymen, and two 
black flags presented by the matrons and maidens of 
Brunswick wave over them. Between these two coffins, 
lies Caroline of Brunswick, consort of George IV. ; she 
dictated the inscription on the original silver plate, 
* Murdered Queen of England ;' but it was exchanged 
for another, having only names, dates, and titles. We 
were surrounded with the royal dead, the gloomy place 
was illuminated with wax candles, and was a humi- 
liating scene. Coffins of all sizes, containing the great 
of this world, now food for worms ! At eight we started 
for Hanover, arrived at ten, and saw the royal stud — 
about 300 lovely creatures. We walked in the park of 
the King of Hanover, and saw the exterior of his palace, 
and the house of Prince George, his son ; they were 
not so grand as that of the Duke of Cumberland in 
England, and did not look like the residence of English 
royalty. The pillar erected to the memory of those who 
fell at Waterloo, with their names, is a fine structure. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 363 

At the table d'h6te, met Count de L , who married 

the niece of the Marquis of L y he showed us great 

attention, went to the raikoad with us, and watched our 
departure. We arrived at Zelle a^ six, and slept there. 
We reached Haarburg, at half-past nine, the next morn- 
ing, whence we proceeded by steamer to Hamburg, to 
the Victoria Hotel. 

" On Sunday, we drove by mistake to the Methodist 
AssociatioUyheld in a small room, where we had an excel- 
lent sermon from a Mr. Walker ; after service, we returned 
a hymn-book to one who had kindly lent it, and who 
proved to be the captain of the vessel by which we were 
to sail, the ' Countess of Lonsdale." He directed us to 
the Independent Chapel, known as the ' English Re- 
formed Church." In the evening we went there, and 
heard Mr. Smith, a former student at Eotherham, 
preach an excellent sermon. In conversation with him 
and the two deacons, we first heard that our visit to 
Grafenberg had been blest to our kind friend Mrs. 

K . With new feelings we anticipated our visit to 

her on the next day, and I could not help counting the 
hours till I should meet this dear addition to the happy 

family. Mr. K , fetched us in his carriage. The 

views from the elevated ground on the road of the Elbe, 
are splendid. At a certain point we left the carriage, 
and walked through a succession of grounds overlooking 

the river, to Mr. K "s house ; at about a quarter of 

a mile from it, Mrs. K met us. My heart did, 

indeed, glow to see her; many former conversations 
made her an object of interest, but the crowning one 

R 2 



364 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAIT. 

was the change in her character. A little conversation 
elicited the fact ; but the more we talked, the firmer 
became my conviction, that the new nature was wrought 
in her by the Spirit of God; the time spent beneath her 
roof was one of unspeakable delight to me. At half- 
past eight, we went on board the * Countess of Lonsdale' 
steamer. I arose early, and went into the saloon, and 
spent nearly an hour alone — ^but not alone ! At break- 
fast, we first ascertained what companions - we had for 
our long voyage. Among them was a daughter of Mr. 
Oucken, who had been recently persecuted in Denmark, 
for circulating the Scriptures and preaching the gospel : 
also a lady who was going over to be married to him, 

a clergyman and his wife — not our sort, Mr. L - 

Mr. and Mrs. H , taken in at Cuxhaven, a son of 

Rev, F. N , an elegant young man, and his friend, 

?rith several others ; but only five ladies : so much the 
better for our snug cabin. While passing out from the 
mouth of the Elbe, where there had been a slight squall 
twenty-four hours previously, the vessel rolled, and made 
us all ill. I went to bed, finding the other ladies had 
preceded me, and slept soundly. 

** To-day, September 3rd, I am full of hope in the 
prospect of soon reaching dear Old England — there may 
I testify my love to Him, who has •granted to us mercies 
so unnumbered, by an entire, renewed, consecration of 
my aU to His glory." 



CHAPTER XII. 

VISIT TO ST. Leonard's and eastings. 

The Continental tour and the visit to Silesia, re- 
corded in the preceding chapter, greatly improved Mrs. 
Sherman's general health, which for some time after 
her return was sustained, to the astonishment and com- 
fort of her friends. Hope, naturally buoyant in her 
cheerful temper, became lively and vigorous. Her re- 
covery, before encompassed with uncertainty, she now 
anticipated urith confidence, and told her husband, in 
cheerful accents, that as she felt better than for months 
previously, she was assured the Lord would again permit 
her to labour in his vineyard. Her cough, however, 
had never been effectually subdued, and as the winter 
advanced, began to show fearful symptoms of increased 
violence. At the commencement of the year 1847, the 
strength previously gained declined, and the appetite 
which had been remarkably renewed, rapidly failed. 
Though the Parsonage is situated very favourably for a 
consumptive patient, being protected entirely from the 
north and east, it was thought by her physician that 
the atmosphere of London aggravated her disease ; there- 
fore, as a change for the invalid, rather than with any 
expectation of permanent amendment, he ordered her 
for a few weeks to her father's residence at Enfield, 



366 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAN. 

where every attention that love could invent was paid 
to the precious saint. Here, spasmodic attacks of cough- 
ing, which were enough to excite sympathy for the 
patient, cheerful sufiFerer, in the coldest heart, produced 
dreadful exhaustion, and brought her very low. Yet 
she rallied again and again, and it appeared ^or a few 
days, BS if the symptoms had taken a favourable turn, 
and that notvdthstanding all she had suffered, she 
might hereafter, again " work the work of the Lord." 
She was not wholly deprived of attending worship on 
the Sabbath — occasionally in the morning or afternoon, 
she ventured among the assembled saints, and ate with 
a keener spiritual relish the bread that came down from 
heaven. But even a short service was more than her 
enfeebled strength could sustain, without increased suf- 
fering ; and often has her determination to go " where 
God dwells," cost her the sacrifice of a night's rest and 
much bodily comfort ; still what relative could authori- 
tatively interpose or resist the touching remonstrance, 
" Let me go — I may not worship with you long on 
earth, and if I do suffer a little more in my body, my 
spirit is refreshed with the dews which fall on Zion's 
hill — 0, it is good to be there V 

Rather than attempt to describe the state of her 
mind, and its gracious employment, it will be preferable 
to shew both, in some portions of letters which she 
wrote at this period. These will prove how near the 
verge of heaven her spirit lived, from whence she 
derived her solid peace, and how intent she was on 
serving her incarnate Lord, through the remaining 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. S67 

days of her suffering existence. That she might not 
appear to be wholly separated from her Sabbath class, 
a lady who had occasionally assisted her, when ne- 
cessitated to leave home, kindly undertook to super- 
intend it on her behalf ; but sickness in her friend's 
family compelled her absence from London for a season, 
and finally, from the neighbourhood of Surrey Chapel. 
Just at this time, and when she felt her resumption of 
its duties was hopeless, the kindness of her Heavenly 
Father appeared in sending to her Miss Neele, a valued 
friend, with whom she had been on terms of intimacy 
from childhood, to take charge of the education of her 
two daughters. She entered the family a few weeks 
before Mrs. Sherman's tour to Silesia, and when she 
returned, undertook to instruct the class for a few 
Sabbaths ; but her labours proving very acceptable to 
the pupils, at the request of Mrs. Sherman, seconded by 
the class, she consented to become its permanent in- 
structress. Her Sunday class being thus happily pro- 
vided for, a great burthen was at once removed from 
her mind, while by their teacher's residence with her, 
she was still able to maintain communication with them. 
Although her young ladies' class required an effort 
only once a fortnight, her failing strength would not 
permit her longer to indulge the pleasing expectation 
that she might resume its duties — and it became her 
anxiety and prayer, that some efficient and cultivated 
teacher might be found for that also. At the beginning 
of the year 1847, Mrs. Field, a lady well-qualified for 
the undertaking, cheered her heart, by signifying to the 



368 MEMOIR OF MBS. 8HEBMAN. 

exhausted invalid her acceptance of the office. Her 
joy at this announcement will be best told in her own 
language : — 

«Jamiary9t&,1847. 
" Many are the instances in which your kindness, my 
beloved friend, has revived my heart ; but as ' a friend 
in need is a friend indeed,' you have specially cheered 
my mind, by its unexpected relief from the burthen 
of my beloved Bible class. Long have I desired and 
coveted your valuable aid, but your own delicacy of 
health made me shrink from su^esting any plan that 
would make demands on your strength ; but your dear, 
kind heart has anticipated my wishes, and I tender you 
the overflowings of mine in gratitude and love. My 
dear husband fully intended to take charge of the class 
when this year opened ; but the state of his chest, and 
of his general health for some weeks, made me think 
it quite improper, and even perilous, to attempt any 
additional exercise. My grief over that dear class, so 
much needing assistance ; and the hope of resuming my 
place among them being so continually disappointed* by 
the recurrence of old evil symptoms, whenever I en- 
counter the slightest exertion and excitement, have 
perhaps aggravated the trial of banishment from my 
loved place among them. I wish you, my dear friend, 
the same rich enjoyment I have experienced in meeting 
them — ^for though physically there was rather suffering 
than enjoyment, my nobler part has been often refreshed 
in the feeble, broken effort to draw them near to Ood. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 369 

I have straggled long with my consciousness of utter 
inefficiency for so responsible a position ; now my 
Heavenly Father is trying and proving me, whether I 
would serve Him or not. Ah, my beloved firiend, none 
but One can sympathize with my feelings, in being thus, 
step by step, removed from the scenes of rich privilege, 
in which my whole soul has long luxuriated, and en- 
joyed such rich manifestations of my Father's conde- 
scension and love. Why was I permitted to taste the 
dear cup of hallowed joy, so utterly unworthy as I am 
of the least notice of my Father's eye ? Why was the 
cup taken from me, just as I was increasingly realizing 
the happiness of being nothing — ^less than nothing, that 
Ood might be ^ all in all ?' It sometimes seems as if 
it was a stroke of His wrath, and while I am over- 
whelmed that His mercy ever reached my guilty soul at 
all, I catch myself continually asking, ' Wherefore dost 
thou contend with me V He has brought me so to 
love Him, that I am ready, I think, to feel ' He doth 
all things well ;' and if He leave me without usefulness 
or influence all my remaining days, it must be for some 
infinitely wise purpose, though hidden from me, and con- 
trary to His ordinary method : for He surely must be 
more glorified by the increase of my influence, if He 
sanctify its exercise, than by its removal. I am willing 
— more than willing to be entirely at His disposal, to be 
nothing in the esteem of others, if He be but glorified. 
But is it not mysterious, that in the flower of my days, 
and just arriving at the age when, if ever, some degree 
of wisdom may be anticipated, and delighting in every 

B 3 



370 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

thing in proportion to my ability to communicate my 
enjoyment to others, I am thus suddenly arrested in my 
course ? My weakness last winter prevented all such 
gloomy musings ; but the great improvement in my 
general health, since my journey, seemed to encourage 
every hope that I might again do as in former happy 
days, but every attempt proves my mistake, and sends me 
back to my closet, to ask that resignation which surely 
I must want, or I could not feel so discouraged. For- 
give me for thus pouring out my heart's grief to you. 
I know you will pray for your unworthy friend, as well 
as so substantially help her.'' 

One of the members of the church had been most 
unjustly subjected to a criminal prosecution, in conse- 
quence of the person to whom his kind offices were 
gratuitously rendered, unexpectedly dying. Weak as 
she was, she would send the following testimony of her 
sympathy to his wife : — 

« Clay Hill, Enfield, Fdmmry let, 1847. 
" I fear you are in anxiety, and I must send my 

paper representative to assure you, dear Mrs. L , how 

truly and heartily I sympathise with you and your good 
husband, under this unexpected trial ; for though human 
sympathy can of itself do little, it is sometimes cheering 
to know, that every Christian sympathiser contributes 
his or her mite, to ' open the windows of heaven,' that 
' a blessing may be poured out ;' and you have many 
such sympathisers at Surrey. When God is about to 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 371 

answer a prayer, which has long appeared to be un- 
heeded, He often seems to be sending only judgments 
and wrath, raising enemies in return for kindness, and 
crossing our best and most hallowed purposes. We are 
so slow to comprehend our Father's methods of dis- 
ciplining his children, and so unwilling to work with 
Him in accomplishing His designs, that we are some- 
times ready in our hearts, if not with our lips to join 
with Jacob, in saying, ^ All these things are against me." 
But, my dear friend, this present trial, is not more 
mysterious than Jacob's ; all was overruled in his case 
for good, and I am perfectly confident that God's design 
in your case, is for your advantage. How many have 
been led to pray for you, who but feebly remembered 
you before ! Has it not led both you and your husband 
to cast yourselves more simply on Him, who has all hearts 
in His hands ? Has not the unchangeable faithfulness 
of God been endeared in contrast with the malice of 
man ? The consciousness of integrity in your husband's 
mind must be very consoling ; the conviction that, how- 
ever hateful the circumstances of this trial are to the 
Divine mind, yet that while His love permits them, he 
has entire authority over them, so that they cannot do 
more than He allows — is the sweetener of the most 
bitter sorrow. * Look not,* my dear friend, ' at the 
things which are seen' and * temporal,' but ' at the things 
which are unseen and eternal," so, ' our light affliction 
worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight 
of glory.' Look through the dark cloud to Him that 
sits on His throne, who makes the clouds His chariots 



372 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

of love to draw you nearer to Himself ; to behold Him 
in His ways, till you love Him, and all His dealings, 
however painfiil ; confident that, ' He that spared not 
His own Son,' will * freely give us all things,' whether 
trial or prosperity, that shall tend to our complete and 
final redemption. He loves too much to spare the rod 
when needed, and He strikes because He loves and 
* careth for you.' In His hands leave this week's re- 
sults ; He will never betray you. Excuse this note, 
which an anxious and sympathising heart dictates." 

It was her habit on the return of her wedding-day, to 
review the providences which had attended her useful 
course. A note bearing date March 3rd, 1 847, alludes 
to this event, and exhibits how well her mind was dis- 
ciplined to endure, and even welcome her altered con- 
dition, which contrasted so painfully with that of former 
years. 

" If you are in London, my dear firiend, do try to 
come and cheer me with your presence, at the Maternal 
Meeting here on Monday ; it always delights me to see 
you, but especially, when I feel unequal to exertion, 
and must fall back upon my kind friends. Several fresh 
members have joined us lately, and I am anxious to 
secure the assistance of those who can speak to good 
purpose, which you know I think you do. I am, indeed, 
a poor creature now, more so than ever ; and am called to 
give up to other and far more efiicient hands, the little 
objects which have so intensely interested me. Twelve 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHSBMAN. S73 

years of peculiar happiness I have passed this day, with 
my beloved husband ; it is the first wedding-day that 
has transpired without bright hopes of increasing activity 
and usefulness ; but I am now bidden to ^ Stand still,' 
to wait, to submit, and to yield such hopes to others. 
I fed, however, it is right, and I do not in my heart 
desire any other appointment ; my flesh sometimes does, 
but though a painful discipline, it is quite enough for 
me that I am in my Father's hands ; this silences every 
rebellious wish, and I hope soon to recognise submission 
as more congenial, than that activity which I once so much 
enjoyed. I want to know no will but His ; quietly and 
cheerfully to sit in silence, and learn the great lessons 
which He has given, to qualify me for the enjoyment of 
Himself, and to promote His own glory." 

To another of her friends whose attentions to her 
diet were never failing, she thus replies : — 

" Again must I thank you, my very kind friend, for 
the repetition of your affectionate remembrance, and for 
its extension to my little Patty. I can only regard you 
as a * ministering' body, as well as ' spirit," if I am not 
presumptuous in the humble hope, that * through Him 
that loved' and ' washed' me, I am ^ an heir of salva- 
tion,' to whom those blest ones are sent to minister. 
He who commissions them, is indeed the source of ' every 
good and every perfect gift.' I bless him for making 
your heart the kind well of mercy it is, — ^you will give 
Him all the glory ; and I bless you for the sweet over- 



374 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAN. 

flowings of that heart to me^ which inclines yon in all 
things to do His will, and to make others happy. I 
disobey you, by writing, but I must thank you while 
I can hold a pen." 

On the 3rd of April, by the advice of Dr. Roots, she 
left London for St. Leonard's. The little exercise she 
was able to take in the open air, by the facilities this 
lovely and quiet place afforded, and the warm breezes 
from the ocean, greatly renovated her strength, and 
reduced the violence of her cough for a few weeks ; but 
she had now an exercise of another and more painful 
kind. Her mind, which, during the whole period of her 
sickness, had been remarkably placid and even joyous, 
became suddenly depressed ; not that it was apparent to 
an ordinary observer, for, like her Saviour, she seldom 
mentioned her mental sorrows, except to her Heavenly 
Father. Her great anxiety for the comfort of others, 
would not allow her, unless absolutely necessary, to in- 
trude her griefs on their attention ; even her husband 
was not made acquainted with them till after repeated 
enquiry, lest the tale of sorrow should diminish his 
happiness. The dart which the vile archer, taking 
advantage of her bodily weakness, cast into her tender 
conscience, was the base insinuation that her backward- 
ness to converse on heavenly and spiritual topics, had 
been a hindrance to her husband's usefulness. Never 
did he invent a more false accusation, for it was scarcely 
possible for a disciple to give a heartier response when the 
peculiarities of Christian experience were introduced, or 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 375 

to show greater delight when the tales of God's love 
were the subjects of conversation. It was not her habit 
to thrust her religious opinions on every company and 
season, but few opportunities escaped without some deli- 
cate allusion to the best of topics, with which her heart 
was charged. Poor and rich, pious and profane, will 
confirm this testimony, and he, whose ministry her 
clouded imagination fancied she had injured, can only 
lament that the charge might, with greater propriety, be 
brought against him, that he had not sufficiently im- 
proved the precious opportunities, now, alas ! past, of 
spiritual communion with her, during thirteen years of 
almost uninterrupted bliss. The description she gives 
of her state of mind is so mournfully beautiful, that it 
cannot be withheld. 

" Before my marriage, my own impression of one of 
the most important duties of a minister's wife was this : 
that, as her husband's many and varied occupations, 
being all on one subject, were necessarily likely, in a 
measure, to become mechanical, unless much time could 
be devoted to communion with God and his own heart 
in private ; her duty would be, by her piety and spiri- 
tuality of conversation, to help his piety, and to give it 
the vigour requisite to its constant exhibition in its 
brightest, purest form at home. Now, my beloved hus- 
band does every where show whom he serves, but that 
quiet influence which the wife should exert for him — 
not, believe me, by attempting to dictate or teach, quite 
the reverse — I have sought, longed for, prayed for, for 



376 MEMOIE OF MES. SHERMAN. 

twelve years, but have never yet attained. And I feel 
powerfully as if I had been your hindrance, by my 
neglect of spiritual conversation ; that it is one of my 
wasted opportunities, and that I am to be taken away 
as an utterly useless being. For many weeks my heart 
has been deeply oppressed, and it is my relief to shed 
many tears. My Christian course has been a singularly 
happy one : my first sight of the atonement, and the 
work of Christ has never lost its clearness, and my mind 
seems incapable of long depression, as to my personal 
interest in Christ, from that my refuge never being con- 
cealed. This is, probably, partly from my natural hope- 
fulness of disposition. For many long weeks, I have 
lost much of my relish for my Bible, and but for the 
influence of habit and conscience, should sometimes 
neither open it, nor repeat any portion of it to myself, 
for a whole day. I have no enjoyment of the presence 
of God, and literally, I have gone from room to room 
here, almost unconsciously, trying whether my absent 
Lord would meet me any where ; nothing affords me 
any pleasure ; * they have taken away my Lord,' and I 
can find no joy without Him. I do not feel my hope in 
Christ shaken ; this is the bitterness of my sorrow, that 
I hope (unworthy as I am) He has bought me with His 
own most precious blood, and, therefore, the ingratitude 
of neglecting His will is so base. He delights in the 
happiness of the meanest of his creatures, and hides not 
his face but in faithfulness and love, and that such a 
Father should have such a child, is a sorrow indeed. It 
amazes me, that I do not entirely doubt my adoption ; 



MEMOIE OF MES. SHEBMAN. S77 

it is SO unlike the spirit of a child in His family, to 
suspect I grieve Him, and yet spare any pains till the 
cause is removed. He has warned me by sickness, which 
loosens many a tongue, but still, to my most beloved 
husband, I am dumb. Never have I known an habi- 
tually heavy heart till this winter, and now there seems 
a shade over everything. It is not enough to hope I am. 
Christ's, if I do not glorify him ; and insensibility alone, 
such as mine, must be most offensive to Him who loves 
me, and takes such pains to teach me, and to draw me 
nearer to himself. Pray, pray, for your poor wife ; 
it is one comfort that I may pray for you, and when 
unable to feel any other prayer, I do pray with my 
whole heart for you. Forgive me for sending you this 
long letter about myself, but it is such a relief to feel I 
have told you my burden. I can sometimes roll it on 
Him who cares for me, but the recollection of unforsaken 
sin renews it. Receive a full heart of love from your 
devoted wife." 

Though this dark cloud continued, with some lumi- 
nous apertures, for about six months, the same cheerful 
tone of conversation, the same efforts to help others 
out of their troubles, the same anxiety to save souls, as 
she manifested in her more joyous days, pervaded her 
conduct, which her letters of this period, as well as 
the testimony of her friend and companion, abundantly 
prove. The following note to her father shews that, 
however dark the valley through which she was walking, 
she obeyed the advice of the prophet, to stay herself 



878 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

upon her Ood, and encouraged him to the same blessed 
exercise. 

'^ I am but a poor thing at present, and till the night 
perspirations cease, I cannot get very robust. Quiet, 
which is so very necessary for me, is perfectly attainable 
here, and every thing is so peculiarly comfortable, that 
I stand every chance of getting better, as far as means 
and comforts avail But One only can heal, and till 
He says the word, your Patty must cheerfully yield to 
the little inconveniences of weakness. She can only 
marvel at *the goodness and mercy' which surround her, 
and which gave to her the kindest and most indulgent 
of all husbands. How happy shall we be, if you and I, 
with the loosening of our little ties to earthly comforts, 
get more closely united to those pure and tangible joys, 
which can never be grasped too firmly. The more we 
look, with the simplicity and confidence of children, to 
the riches which are treasured up in Christ, as our 
Father's portion, provided for us in the unfathomable 
depths of His love and grace, surely, the more shall we 
love Him and his holiness. We must * behold His 
glory, till we are changed into the same image from 
glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord : ' and 
is not that look, the look of simple faith, — trusting our 
all, in a faithful, loving Father's hand ; receiving every 
promise in Christ, as ' Yea and amen,' in Him ? Oh, 
for more simplicity of faith, dear Daddy !" 

Mr. Orme, a City Missionary in the Surrey Chapel 
district, who had shown much diligence and devotedness 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 379 

in his visitation of the poor, lost his wife, after a short 
illness. Though writing at this period occasioned great 
fatigue, she willingly made the sacrifice, to comfort the 
widower's heart, and sent him the following sympathising 
letter : — 

" St. Leonard's, AprU 26tk. 

" I cannot hear of the deep affiction with which our 
Heavenly Father has visited you, my dear sir, without 
writing one line, though in much weakness, to express 
my very deep and sincere sympathy with you in the 
loss of your heloved companion, especially when her 
maternal care was most needed. I would not, however, 
for a moment refer to the many dark views of this 
mysterious dispensation, but rather help to cheer you by 
the same means with which you have so often cheered 
many drooping, widowed hearts ; and He who has wit- 
nessed your eflForts with others, fails not, I am sure, to 
comfort you now. Think not, my dear sir, of your 
own loss, but of the * joy unspeakable and full of glory,' 
which that emancipated spirit now enjoys, * without 
spot,' ' with Christ,' ' like Him,' and no longer capable 
of sin. I often feel consoled under my ' light affic- 
tion,' with the confidence I have, that could our faith 
penetrate our Father's designs in our bitterest trials, we 
should welcome all, and dread as much the loss of one 
of his intended strokes, as we now do their approach. 
If His faithful love could accomplish His gracious plans 
without a pang, would He inflict it ? His purposes 
of mercy are so far beyond our finite minds to compre- 



380 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

hend that He does not reveal them to us, but by their 
results ; in heaven all will be unfolded, and the wrench 
that separated two hearts which helped each other in 
the labours and toils of the missionary's self-denying 
path, will be then found to have been one great proof of 
His unchanging love. We shall soon forget the thorny 
path, when we reach our Father's home, and see the 
' Captain of our salvation,** the * man of sorrows,' whose 
deeply-rugged path smoothed ours, and brought us to 
' an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, and that 
fadeth not away.' I doubt not your mission is to be 
advanced, and your usefulness and real happiness too, 
by this blow; and if God be glorified, — ^your beloved one 
perfected in bliss,— your work promoted, — and your 
sanctification advanced, is not this worth suflFering for ? 
God's will must be good and kind ; and the * God of all 
comfort' will not leave you comfortless. May He grant 
you the richest consolations of His Spirit, and make all 
grace to abound toward you, and by every loosened tie 
to earth, draw you nearer to heaven, and present you 
and all your family perfect in that day — ^not one child 
missing." 

Persons anxious about their salvation, in whom there 
seems to be a work already begun, often multiply objec- 
tions to embracing Christ and his work at once, as if an 
improvement would take place ere long, and thus render 
them better able to seize the remedy they long to 
enjoy. They forget that there is guilt in this delay, 
which is every day aggravated, and that, instead of 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 381 

becoming more reconciled to God's plan ; the longer it 
is refused, the more they are disinclined, and in a far 
greater degree God is dishonoured. This difficulty had 
been expressed to her, in a letter from a young person, 
to whom she had been useful, in drawing her from a 
state of ignorance and neglect of her soul ; to which she 
thus replies : — ' 

St. Leonard's, May 6rA, 1847. 

" Your former letter, my dear friend, would have 
been answered long since, but I have been very ill, and 
have been forbidden to write ; I am thankful to say, I 
am much better since I came here, though the symp- 
toms still continue. Night perspirations and expec- 
toration of blood, both which symptoms I had not last 
winter, have much weakened me, and the progress of the 
disease is said to be very decided ; but as in the kind 
Providence of God, I am so situated that I can have 
every possible care and no exposure to cold, there is 
every hope that with so good a constitution as I possess, 
I may yet be spared for some years ; though perhaps one 
severe cold would speedily cut the slender thread, which 
binds the frail tabernacle to earth. I have all my family, 
and the youngest of three grand-children here, so we are 
a tolerable party ; but I am not excited by them, they 
make it cheerful for me. I wish, my dear friend, I could 
spend the hour between the lights as formerly, in 
guiding you to * the Lamb of God, which taketh away 
the sin of the world,' there I love to look, and there I 
find a ' peace which passeth all understanding ) but no 



382 MEMOIB OF MRS. SHE&MAN. 

where else. If I look within, I hope I see some in- 
creasing evidence of the Spirit's work, but while I 
would rejoice in the smallest proof that I am a child 
of God, through His work in my heart, I cannot draw 
my peace from that, but from the completeness of 
Christ's work. He is my Prophet, Priest, and King ; 
and therefore while He lives, and my guilty soul 
clings to Him, I am safe ; but this is proved only by 
my growing in meetness to dwell with Him. It is 
very important to keep clearly before the mind what 
is to be the foundation of our peace ; ' He is our peace,' 
and there is no other ground for hope but His work, 
by which God is reconciled to man, though we are 
saved, only when by faith we receive His atonement 
and are reconciled to God, which is evidenced by our 
forsaking that from which Christ died to save us ; 
we cannot have received Christ's salvation if we con- 
tinue to love sin ; there is no meaning in Christ's work, 
apart from the sanctification which is its necessary 
result. Sin separates us from God, from His favour 
here, and His presence hereafter ; and to restore us to 
His favour, Christ bore our punishment and curse : to 
sustain the justice, holiness, and truth of God, He was 
obedient to the law we had broken, and to restore us to 
His presence in heaven. He sent his Spirit to renew and 
sanctify the mind, and make us fit for, and capable of 
enjoying it. But all these blessings flow from Christ's 
satisfaction to Divine justice, so that ' God is just and 
the Justifier of the sinner that believeth in Jesus. My 
dear friend, how I long for you richly to experience the 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 383 

two distinct fruits of Christ's work, our justification 
through his blood as the foundation of our hope, and 
the Spirit's work in us, as the evidence that we are 
building on that only foundation. Your poor mind still 
seems so confused and unsettled, sometimes hoping, 
sometimes fearing ; but this ought not to be. We are 
either converted or unconverted ; and we must not be 
satisfied in uncertainty which of these is our state, when 
heaven or hell is the result. We are exhorted to give 
all diligence, to make our election sure ; to work out 
our own salvation with fear and trembling, not to merit 
salvation, but by the diligent use of every means of 
grace, watchfulness, humility, leaning on God, resisting 
sin, fighting against temptation, and above all by 
prayerful study of our Guide Book, the Bible, to 
strive for our salvation, and against everything that 
would impede it. You must not rest till you are recon- 
ciled to God ; for His reconciliation to man is of no 
avail, while the sinful heart is practically at enmity with 
Him. The riches of His grace and love are displayed 
in the amazing work of redemption, which removes the 
barrier to man's salvation, and how aggravated must 
that guilt be, which resists and trifles with such love, 
which can linger and hesitate to seize its rich offers. 

My heart grieves to look back, and see how long I 
hesitated; desiring to be a Christian, but forgetting 
that I was a rebel and an enemy to God, so long as 
I was not one ; I looked at my own happiness, and 
therefore desired to be a Christian, as the only way 
of being truly and eternally happy ; but I thought 



384 MEMOIR OF MES. SHERMAN. 

not how I was a miracle of His forbearance while 
out of hell : that I deserred hell ; that I had chosen 
sin, and rejected holiness ; that I had no good thing 
in me, and that my utter destruction would be perfectly 
just and righteous. God's mercy oflFered me salvation, 
but I did not think of it as such. It seemed a matter 
only between my happiness and me, quite independent 
of God's honour ; and this, I fear, is much your own 
state of mind, which makes me very intensely anxious, 
that you should pray much for your eyes to be opened 
by the Spirit of God. Such will be the Christian's 
prayer all the way to heaven, and how needful it is in 
first starting. Our eagerness in pursuit of any object 
depends upon the value we set on it, and till we know 
its worth, our zeal and expectation of success are not 
likely to be great. Look at wrestling Jacob, and do 
likewise, ' I will not let thee go, except thou bless me.' 
I was much interested in last Sunday's Collect, * 0, 
Almighty God, who alone canst order the unruly wills 
and aflfections of sinful men, grant unto thy people, that 
they may love the thing which thou commandest, and 
desire that which thou dost promise ; that so, among 
the sundry and manifold changes of the world, our 
hearts may surely there be fixed, where true joys are to 
be found, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."* Do 
mark it, and use it; I refer particularly to desiring 
what God has promised. I think God's promises are so 
apt to be overlooked by the seeker, whereas we should ' 
make ourselves familiar with them all, and use them as 
pleas in our prayers. Do, my dear friend, search your 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 385 

Bible, that you may be conversant with its sweet and 
gracious encouragements. As you read, copy every pro- 
mise you meet with, and make one or more the subject 
of thought and prayer through the day ; we dishonour 
God by undervaluing His promises, for none could be 
oflFered us but through the work and mediation of Christ, 
and every hope and promise is the purchase of His most 
precious blood. I long to see you rejoicing in Christ 
Jesus, and enjoying that 'peace of God which passeth 
all understanding," because that ' shall keep your heart 
and mind through Christ Jesus.' God's ' peace' is not 
a mere sentiment, but an influential principle, ' keep- 
ing the heart and mind' &om sin and in holiness. We 
can judge whether the peace we possess is true or false 
by its influence. Whatever comes from God tends to 
God, and that only which separates us from sin, and con- 
forms our will and conduct to God, comes from Him. 

" Oh ! be in earnest, my dear friend, you must not 
yield to this listlessness and inactivity. I carefully shun 
it while sufiering pain and weakness, because I consider 
it my enemy ; how much more should you determine 
against it, when it is natural to you, because the least 
weakness or illness would make you a burden to yourself 
and others. I wish I could take you out of bed ; while 
you allow yourself to sleep, when you should be com- 
muning with God, and laying in stores of grace and 
knowledge, to meet the circumstances of the day, you 
must not expect to have the evidence that you are a 
child of God ; for you put away the means of returning 
to Him by Belf-indulgence,*and must I say it, idleness ! 

s 



386 MEMOIB OF MBS. BHEBMAK. 

I speak honestly, because I feel deeply anxious about 
you, and utter most earnest prayer and desires for your 
speedy decision for God." 

When some, to whom she had been nsefnl felt their 
hope of her restoration b^n to expire, and that they 
were to be permanently deprived of her services, their 
grief was expressed, as she thought, in too strong terms, 
which exhibited a want of submission to the Divine will, 
and reflected on the love and wisdom of Ood. In reply 
to one of her spiritual children, she turns comforter, and 
thus inculcates acceptance of her Father's discipline. 

'' Marina, May 25thy 1847. 
" I feel, my dear child, as if I had no right to the 
endearing title of teacher now, except from the remem- 
brance of past happy days. I have learnt some of my 
sweetest lessons in my beloved class, and the last subjects 
we had, have peculiarly comforted my mind throughout 
my late affliction. How delightful are the discoveries 
of the Divine character, in the offices of the triune Grod, 
and how sweet to be permitted to say, * This is my Be- 
loved, and this is my Friend.' — * This God is our God 
for ever and ever.' God's greatest promise to Abraham 
was, * I will be a God to thee, and to thy seed after 
thee.' And this also is the New Testament promise ; 
happy are we, my child, though every earthly joy were 
withdrawn. While He is our God, why mourn the loss 
of the poor little murmuring stream, that once brought 
to your feet some few refreshing drops from the foun- 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 887 

tain. Tou have the fountain itself^ unmixed with 
human errors and infirmities ; we ought to prize even 
the dew-drop, which our Father so graciously sends to 
refresh and help us in our weary pilgrimage, but we 
must receive it as Q' dew-drop only, not as the stream 
from whence we are to draw our strength for the way. 
Welcome every appointment of your loving Father's 
hand. If you feel it a trial to be without your old 
Mend, when I have furnished you (or rathw God has) 
with so experienced and superior a substitute, what must 
I feel, thus laid aside from all my most beloved occu- 
pations, truly, as far as I can see, ' a cumberer of the 
ground,' panting to employ my little energy for Him 
who loved me and died for me, but suffering serious 
relapse, directly I make an effort. This requires the full 
exercise of that faith I have recommended to others, to 
believe that all these things are working together for 
good, and are God's method for glori^ing Himself. I 
know He is working while I am still, and He is crossing 
my desires, to prepare me for that perfect rejoicing in 
His wiU, which is found only in heaven, but which we 
must labour and pray for here. I cannot wish for any 
thing besides my Lord's wiU now, but there I shall fully 
rejoice in it all. Now, my child, as you know you will 
in heaven rejoice in this trial, seek to discern the lovely 
character of God more, that you may rejoice, not in the 
thing itself, but in God's appointments : however dark 
they seem now, it is because we know so little both of 
God and of His designs ; as we grow in grace, we must 
grow in ' the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus 

s 2 



388 HEHOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

Christ ;' and as wc advance in the trne knowledge of 
Him, every other graiice advances, and our whole life, 
character, and example, prove whose we are, and for 
whom we are living. Let ns keep heaven in view as our 
home, and then we shall prize every means our Father 
sends, to help ns on our way thither. Give my most 
affectionate love to my heloved friends in the class.'' 

Mrs. Sherman had sojourned nearly two months at 
St. Leonard's, and her active mind, amidst much de- 
pression and weakness, had found ample employment. i 
One of her efforts while there may be specially men- I 
tioned. The Countess S., of Weistricht, in Silesia, , 
begged her to interest herself inr finding an English lady, i 
who would be a companion to her, and at the same > 
time, conduct the instruction of her chili With an | 
energy which would have honoured a person in health 
and comfort, she wrote numerous letters to friends, to 
assist her in this selection. The distance from England, 
and the residence in a foreign land, though presenting 
many advantages, were formidable difficulties, which, 
after some had accepted the situation, caused them to 
alter their minds, and decline it. In two cases, every 
thing was arranged for the departure, but relatives inter- 
fered, and broke the engagement. Still she pursued her 
task as if she was seeking a benefit to herself^ and did 
not cease till she sent the Countess a lady, whose piety 
and talents have justified her hopes and efforts. 

As the spring advanced, a change was again thought 
desirable, and she removed to London on the 4th of 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 389 

June, 1847. There was every reason to fear that no 
radical improvement had taken place in her symptoms ; 
the visit to the sea had yielded refreshment, and the 
dark cloud upon her mind was not so dense as it had 
been ; still, the disease was progressing with slow but 
certain steps. She bore the journey with comparative 
ease, and her "oyra dear home" was the sweeter for 
her brief absence. Many hearts were gladdened by her 
return ; her very presence at the Parsonage not only 
delighted its inmates, but cast an air of melancholy 
pleasure over the congregation ; for all felt that a dear 
friend, though an invalid, was among them. When her 
cough permitted her to attend worship — to catch a glance 
at her cheerful face as she sat in the vestry^ or as she 
passed to the house after the service was concluded, was 
considered by many, especially by her classes, as an 
additional Sabbath joy ; and as long as she was able to 
fihow herself among them, hope lingered as to her final 
restoration. Her weakness was, however, excessive, and 
on some days occasioned the most pitiable exhaustion ; 
yet, as soon as she rallied, some work of mercy engaged 
her Ghristlike mind. 

A person who acknowledged Mrs. Sherman had be- 
gotten her in Christ, by the gospel, and concerning whose 
spiritual welfare she was much interested, sent her a letter, 
in which she attributed unchristian motives to an excel- 
lent clergyman, because he thought it best to enlarge the 
parish church, rather than build a district church, which 
she and some others of the parishioners preferred. She 
was not only offended at his conduct, but placed it among 



390 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

the inconsistencies of Christians^ which kept her and 
others back from a more public decision for Christ. To 
that friend the following jadicions advioe was sent : — 

<* Surrey Parsonage, Jwm 29t&, 1847. 
" Tour last note, my dear friend, has given me much 
anxiety on your account, as the spirit of complaint and 
judging which it breathes, is not only unlovely, but 
appears to interfere with your own decision for God. 
How I wish I could talk with you on the subject : it is 
so difficult to express my meaning on paper, especially 
in this time of weakness ; but I must try what I can 
do, and you must have patience with me while I differ 
from you. In the first place, I think your impugning 
your minister's intentions very wrong, as you cannot say 
that you are sure his motives are the love of money. 
I think, from what I hear, the fear of a Puseyite filling 
the pulpit is more correct ; but this he must not an- 
nounce, as it necessarily reflects on that system which 
involves such a possibility : there is, at any rate, much 
reason in his preference of an enlargement of a small 
church to the erection of a new one, with the possibility 
of error, instead of the pure gospel, proceeding firom its 
minister. But supposing that you really have the power 
to discern the motives of Mr. C, and suppose he is even 
worse than you represent him, what has that to do with 
the truth itself ? Suppose ninety out of every hundred 
professed Christians dishonoured their profession, and 
' went back and walked no more with' Jesus, could 
their iniquity touch Him, or weaken the stability of His 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 391 

truth ? ! how miserable would the Christian's hope 
be, if even the whole world, combined with Satan and 
his angels, could touch or shake its deep-laid, its eternal 
foundation! All are against God by nature, and if 
their enmity could weaken the eflScacy of Christ's com- 
plete work of redemption, or its blest results, God would 
Himself (I speak with reverence) cease to be God : if 
there be a greater in power. He cannot be God. Think 
what is involved in your being discouraged, because of 
an uncharitable impression against another ; can you 
ever have laid hold on Christ as the only and the all- 
suflScient Kefuge of your sin-ruined soul, if such a puff 
can blow your little bark from its safe moorings ? Some- 
thing is fearfully wanting, my dear friend, or it could 
not be : while you are judging another's motives, time is 
hastening you on to that moment, when the bark that is 
not firmly cabled and anchored on the Rock of Ages, shall 
be utterly destroyed in the storm of Divine wrath, 
which shall visit the world of the ungodly. Oh my dear 
friend, I weep while I write, and fear it possible that 
you are yet without Christ — ^this impression of Mr. C.'s 
conduct is a test applied to your faith, and can you not 
bear so slight a one? How then could you bear the 
probable scoffs of the world, when you take up your cross 
and come out from it to follow Jesus ! Has His love no 
room in the heart ? can you question its manifestation 
with such glorious proofs all around you ? Remember 
our Saviour's rebuke to Peter's curiosity — ' What is 
that to thee ; follow thou me ;' and what would he say, 
when you make a stumbling block for yourself out of 



392 KEMOIB OF MBS. SHBBMAIt. 

nothing ; for eyen if yoa are correct, what can it be to 
you beyond Christian sympathy for an offender 1 Yon 
must know in whom yon beKeve, and why yon believe, 
or yon will not only be destitute of all ' peace and joy 
in believing,'* bnt bring a far more fearful dishonour on 
your profession than even the poor accused one. Pray, 
pray much for deliverance from this sad instability, 
which can only injure and * never excel' Read and 
'search the Scriptures/ that your mind may be more 
enlightened ' in knowledge and in all love,' that you may 
' adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.'" 

Country air was soon found to be necessary, and the 
dear invalid, at the beginning of July, repaired to her 
honoured father's charming abode at Enfield, antici-* 
pating that in the autumn a continental tour would aid 
her recovery ; she alludes to this design in the following 
extract. 

*^I am really very poorly, and so faint, that every 
effort seems almost impracticable, and though I do try 
to rise above it, I fear Sunday evening services must 
be abandoned: I am very unwilling to believe they 
can injure, but the oppression I feel on my chest and 
lungs at the time, and the prostration of strength after- 
wards, compel me to acknowledge I am hastening the 
progress of disease by attending them. My precious 
friend how humiliating it is, to find the tabernacle 
which must soon be taken down, so powerful an impedi- 
ment to the progress of its immortal inhabitant, is it 



UEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAK. 893 

not? When I can for a moment look beyond 'the 
things which are seen/ the beloved ones on earth, I 
long to be 'with Christ/ no more dishonouring and 
grieving him, but bearing his perfect likeness, and serv- 
ing him without interruption, or weakness, or sin. But 
if assured that this shall at last be my joy, how light 
every disappointment becomes ; it is even my choice 
sometimes, (I would it were always so,) because there 
are great and gracious purposes in the Divine mind, 
which by this means are to be accomplished, and any 
trial is more welcome than the failure of one of his 
designs ; they are as his character — love, faithfulness, 
and truth. Even if others, not myself, are to gain the 
benefit, it amply repays for the present trial."' 

The elevated state of peaceful submission and entire 
confidence in her Heavenly Father's love, is delightfully 
exemplified in the sentiments extracted from a letter 
sent to a dear young friend in Lancashire. 

« Clay Hill, Jvly lOt*, 1847. 
" Though my correspondence has been, and is likely 
to be, almost entirely prohibited, I cannot extend that 
prohibition to you, my dear friend. Delay you will not 
interpret as indifference, and therefore when I can ven- 
ture to break my rules, it shall be on your behalf. I 
am here ! I sunk so rapidly in London, that I was 
obliged to take flight, though I really believe the atmo- 
sphere had much less to do with it, than the circum- 
stances and unavoidable excitements. I rejoice to hear 

s3 



394 MEHOIB OF MRS. SHEBHAlSr. 

you are better, and I almost envy you the priyil^es; 
now so impracticable for me, of telling others of a 
Saviour's love. The cough and its attendants invariably 
increase with talking, and, consequently, I am scarcely 
allowed to see any one. This I feel the severest part of 
my present trial, as it seems so difficult to glorify God 
in such perfect retirement. He sees and marks the 
spirit with which I bear His holy will, but I canaot 
stimulate others, either by passive example, or by testi- 
fying of His love, when only with my little circle of 
home. They see me always, and what I would tell, I 
have often told them before, so that I think even were 
my spirit all it should be, they would not gain equal 
benefit with others, who might only occasionally visit 
me; do not you think this is generally true? But 
though even prohibited from long intercourse with my 
precious children, which is a very keen trial, yet I think 
my heart approves of it, because my Father does it; and 
He has infinitely wise and loving purposes to accom- 
plish, which, if I could see and understand now, it 
would make me long for the very trials from which I 
shrink. It is sweet to trust a faithful Father ; and that 
exercise of mind to which He calls us, when we cannot 
see what He is working, is sometimes, in the hands of 
the Spirit of Love, the very choicest blessing to the 
soul Eveiy fresh exercise of trust and confidence in 
Him, strengthens and prepares for yet stronger confi- 
dence, for greater joy in the Lord, for more unbroken 
' peace in believing \ and what a boon this is ! to feel 
earthly and laudable sources of enjoyment receding from 



MBMOIR OP MBS. SHEBMAK. S95 

our touchy yet our happiness not only undiniinished, 
but growing exceedingly in degree and in kind, by 
realizing how entirely independent it is of all created 
sources, how immediately from the Fountain — God — 
and we are so prone, after all, to cling to some earthly 
thing, which, even if a spiritual and hallowed thing in 
itself, yet becomes a snare, by the tenacity with which we 
hold it, so that our Father's love often takes from us 
even this, lest a rival, though a holy one, enter the heart 
with Him. The fulness of His love can never be under- 
stood till no rival is there — ^till He has the sole sove- 
reignty, without a thought of another ; and to secure 
this unutterable joy, He sends trial upon trial, to wean 
us from the beloved, but too engrossing object, that we 
' may be filled with all the fulness of God/ 

" How I should love to join you at , but I am 

not now well enough to bear a journey. We intended 
to spend part of July and all August on the Continent, 
but there is no prospect of my removing from Enfield. 
I am better, and by keeping perfectly quiet, I hope soon 
to do comfortably again ; if not, I am quite satisfied. 
Yes, through the riches of His grace, we know in whom 
we have believed, and are persuaded, &c., &c. Who 
are we that we should be thus happy while so many in 
our own circle are fearing to appropriate the great sal- 
vation. What a debt we owe, and who can pay it ? 
* Eternity's too short to utter all His praise." " 

It was customary, when any member left her class to 
be a teacher, to take with her the credentials of her 



396 MEMOIB OF MR8. SHEBMAK. . 

instmctress, and often a letter of advice and encourage- 
ment. A young person who had devoted some of her 
Sabbath evenings, in one of the Ragged Schools belong- 
ing to Surrey Chapel, wrote to ask her sanction to 
become a teacher, morning and afiiemoon, in another 
Sunday School. The following extract will serve as a 
specimen of such precious epistles : — 

« Clay Hill, Augutt IGth, 1847. 
'* I have always pleasure in my dear young iriends 
leaving the class to be teachers, as the prominent design 
of its formation is to qualify young persons for the office, 
by cultivating an increased knowledge of the Scriptures, 
not only in the letter, but in the spirit, and by this instru- 
mentality, accompanied with Divine influence, to form 
and advance the Christian character, and to fit them to 
be labourers in God's vineyard, that they may tell others 
the way to eternal life, which they have found them- 
selves. Now, my dear child, you are entering on new 
and solemn responsibilities ; you have spoken, probably, 
for the last time, to your class at Jurston Street — how 
will you meet* those precious souls at the last day ? Are 
you clear of their blood ? Have you earnestly, prayer- 
fully, sought nothing less than their salvation ? Follow 
up those past efibrts with constant prayer, and do not 
allow yourself to think you have done with them. No : 
there is a sort of sacred tie between the teacher and the 
taught, which nothing can destroy, and which eternity 
will develope in all its solemnity. I feel this deeply 
myself, and naturally wish you to feel it too, but more 



MEMOIA Of MRS, SHERMAN. S97 

profitably than I have done. You are now going to 
meet other minds, to whom you have the same message 
to carry, that ' Jesus Christ came into the world to save 
sinners ; ' think of all the points in which you were 
deficient as a teacher at Jurston Street, and direct your 
efforts to correct them, and with earnest prayer, and 
never-tiring diligence, labour to be an example to 
teachers and scholars, and especially to your own class, 
of eminent practical piety : let it shine, not only on the 
Sabbath, or in religious exercises, but at all times, in 
every look and habit, whether seen by others or not 
The Christian character is moulded more by little than 
by great things, and the habits of the Christian have 
much to do with his progress, either for good or evil. 
Cultivate habits of constant communion with God ; 
associate them with every thing you do ; this will check 
sinfiil inclinations, injurious reading, and companions, 
as well as other evils, and render the common things of 
life blessings to your soul. Thus, your real practical 
piety will grow, and will render you an eflicient teacher 
of others. Let nothing tempt you to neglect preparing 
for your class ; never offer to God that which costs you 
nothing ; your interest in your work much depends on 
this, and your intelligence also ; you will feel increased 
interest in the truth itself, by applying your mind prayer- 
fully to understand it. Ever strive to make the way of 
salvation clear to the mind of every child ; Christ, and 
Him crucified, risen, and glorified, is the foundation, 
without which no piety can be expected to arise. He 
is our hope, and every motive to holiness and obedience 



398 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAK. 

flows from hence. ^ We love Him because He fiiBt 
loved us/ " 

One of the members of her Sunday class was called 
into eternity after a brief illness ; this event inspired 
her with new strength to seize the favoured opportunity, 
to produce suitable impressions on the minds of the 
living. It seems written with eternity full in view, and 
as it was the last document which they received from 
the pen of their precious teacher, it will be to the mem- 
bers a permanent testimony of her faithful love, and 
continued longing for their salvation, while ability 
existed to express it. 

« Clay HiU, August 17tA, 1847. 

" My beloved Friends, 
" It seems to me a very long time since I had the 
pleasure of writing to you, but it is an occupation so 
exhausting to my strength that though I would risk the 
suffering for the hope of usefulness, my dear kind friends 
interfered and forbade the attempt ; but I can wait no 
longer, and therefore hoping for the best, and intending 
to write very little, I set to work with a heart so full, 
that neither time nor paper will satisfy me. Perhaps 
you think, I am old enough to act without the control 
of friends. I might do so perhaps, but our Saviour, 
remember, ' pleased not Himself,' His will was not His 
rule, as it is with too many of us naturally ; but when 
the grace of God renews the mind, all the principles of 
action are reversed, and instead of-^rst seeking to please 



MEMOIR OF MBS: SHEBMAK. 899 

ourselves, and then, if it give us no trouble, or be to our 
own interest, pleasing others, the rule now is love, self 
is cast down like Dagon before the Ark, and the first 
enquiry is, How can I please God ? then. How can I 
please those around me ? and there is far more happiness 
in making a great sacrifice of our own inclinations for 
the pleasure of another, than the most selfish being ever 
gained by making every thing give way to please himself. 
Where love to God and man is implanted in the heart 
by the Holy Spirit's blest influences, we scarcely need 
be reminded, that we are ' not to please ourselves/ for 
the lovely catalogue of graces described so repeatedly in 
the Scriptures, (and which I should ask you to refresh 
me by reading to me this moment, if you were by my 
side,) necessarily spring up one after the other, as we 
' grow in grace," till we bear the lovely, though, but faint 
image of our incarnate Lord. I am sure, you are all 
too well instructed to mistake my meaning, and to 
suppose this touches your decision for Christ when that 
is opposed ; No : to give up Christ to please others, 
would not be following the principle of love — ^which 
would make you ready to relinquish your personal ease 
or gratification for another. The one will make you a 
blessing in your family, and contribute to every one's 
comfort : the other would make you despicable in the 
eyes of those whom you seek to please at such a price, 
and oh ! how utterly despised in the sight of God ! 

" My beloved friends, I believe many of you have 
around you those who spare no pains to draw you from 
Christ, and will you listen to such cruel soul-destroying 



400 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

friends^ falsely so called? The apostle describes the 
depths of misery in which the natural ndnd is, by that 
most striking and comprehensiye statement, 'without 
Christ/ ' without God/ and ' without hope / and while 
He waits to be your eternal portion, and offers Himself 
to you, will you gratify a miserable lost fellow-sinner, by 
yielding to the advice which must be his eternal ruin as 
well as yours, if followed ? No ; I dare not believe that 
you have to so little purpose heard of the ' height and 
depth, and length and breadth of love' to you — of the 
joys^which far outweigh the crosses of His service— of 
the supplies of grace from Himself, proportioned to every 
degree of your need which He has promised so many 
times, and bestowed upon many whom you know— of the 
sense of His unseen presence here, and of His imme- 
diate and eternal presence in heaven, to which His Spirit 
is to be your constant Ouide and Teacher ; and besides 
these, the unnumbered supplies of blessings to even the 
very meanest and feeblest of His flock — ^with all these 
so frequently-brought before you, can you be tempted to 
forsake Him to please a worldly friend, one who is an 
enemy to Him, and as certainly to you ? Read that 
beautiful hymn, beginning ' When any turn from Zion's 
way/ and resolve not in your own strength, but in 
His, that you will ' come out from among' those com- 
panions who would entice you from Him, either by influ- 
ence or example ; but if your own family and those with 
whom your duty bids you live, entice — fear not, God is 
on your side : He knows the most minute circumstance 
that occurs. He has in kindness and faithfulness put 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 401 

you into this fiery fomace to try your love : to purge 
away the dross and sin which interrupt the formation of 
His image in your souls, and He sits, by watching the 
pr<^es8 of this refining procesa It is often the means 
Re employs to fit for eminent usefulness in His church, 
and when He sees His own image reflected in you ; 
your will moulded into His, your love of sin and self 
eradicated, and holiness your joy, then the precious one 
in His sight, will be not another moment in the furnace. 
Therefore instead of weeping, and sometimes I fear re- 
pining, at your distressing position, rather weep that you 
are so slow to get the blessing He is working for you ; 
take courage, and seek to win your persecutors to Jesus, 
by the heavenly and Christ-like spirit with which you 
bear their opposition ; thus you may bring honour to your 
Saviour at least, if not salvation eventually to them. 

" I could write much more than my paper or strength 
would, allow on this point, but I must now refer to 
the solemn event which has suddenly removed firom 
your number one so young, lovely, and apparently 
strong and healthy. Death has rarely visited that 
dear class, and who shall be the next? is an enquiry 
for each : or rather. How shall I meet God, should I 
be the next ? It is not for us to pass judgment on 
the dead : perhaps, were it ours to do so, she was one 
more than usually difficult to describe, as to the state in 
which death met her. She had many strn^les with a 
worldly heart, and through the faithful and continual 
efforts of one of your number, she at times seemed 



402 MEMOIS OF MBS. SHERMA2?. 

almost a Christian, conscious, apparently, that she could 
never be happy till she had renounced her vain plea- 
sures and worldly character, yet too little affected with 
the awful character of sin in the sight of Qod, either to 
repent of it, or to prize the great and only atonement : 
had she seen these points aright, by the Spirit of Qod, 
we know she could not have wavered between Christ 
and the world. It is from our not feeling the awful 
evil of sin, that we do not prize the precious work of 
Christ for our redemption ; and the mind is either quite 
undecided for God, or if His service be chosen, piety is 
but a very feeble spark, bringing Uttle or no glory to Him: 
Oh ! my beloved friends, bring not a divided heart to 
such a Friend and Saviour : He demands, not only by 
His authority and right, but by His immeasurable love 
to you, all your heart ; ' present your whole spirit, soul, 
and body, a living sacrifice to Him,' and when you have 
given up all, even if you were called to such a sacrifice, 
what have you done for such a Saviour ? and what have 
you lost compared with what you have gained in pos- 
sessing Him and His great salvation? Oh! aim at 
exalted piety, at eminent holiness, at extensive useful- 
ness, you who bear the Christian name ; and you who 
are not His, oh I think how death seized your friend, 
(we sometimes fear, though we cannot bear the thought) 
while hesitating ; there is no middle state before Ood. 
She was in Christ, and eternally safe, or (dreadful 
thought) ' without Christ, and without hope ; and can 
you wait another moment without an earnest prayer, 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 403 

while hearing this letter, that you may rather be desti- 
tute of home, of food, of friends, of everything necessary 
to your existence, than without Christ. 

" By every argument of which love can conceive, I 
would implore each of you to make the decision this 
moment, that you will 'give God no rest, until He 
has made you His child, and till you may call Him 
your Father, your ' own God.' Send your mental prayer 
to Him before you go home ; there get by yourself, 
and tell Him, without disguise, how entirely insensible 
you are to your state in His sight, and that you do 
not value Christ or his salvation in consequence ; tell 
Him how this aggravates your guilt, and that therefore 
you the more need His help. Bemind Him that you 
are the very character 'He came to seek and to save,' 
— ' lost' — * them that are lost ;' this one word exactly 
describes your state, and were this the only encouragement 
in the Bible to seek Him, it would be enough ; but you 
can find unnumbered passages of the same gracious cha- 
racter. Well, tell Him this : tell Him, His obedience 
and atoning death, have satisfied Divine Justice, so that 
(Jod can now pardon and accept you for His sake, though 
not for your own. Tell Him, His resurrection, ascension, 
intercession at the right hand of God, and His gift of 
the Holy Spirit, prove this blessed fact, and have done 
so ever since He rose. He is far more willing to save 
you than you are to be saved, and He beseeches you, by 
His ministers, and by His providences, to be reconciled 
to God.' How easily you yield when a fellow-creature 
beseeches you, and sometimes sadly to your injury. And 



404 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

can you refuse eternal happiness through forgiveness, 
reconciliation to God, and deliverance fipom sin, misery, 
and hell ? My beloved friends, perhaps we may never 
meet again on earth, but certainly we shall meet at that 
great day, when you and I must give account of our- 
selves to God. If you refuse and neglect the offered 
deliverance * from the wrath to come,' your reason must 
be given, and then your awful sentence, * Depart ye 
cursed." Ask yourself now, why you are not Christ's, 
and compel yourself to answer ; and then, surely, your 
madness will appear to yourself, and you will flee to 
Him, to emancipate you from the fetters which bind 
your reason, your soul, to your eternal ruin. My beloved 
friends, holiness is the joy of heaven : ' follow after 
holiness,' without one exception among you, and this 
shall give greater joy to the angels around the Throne, 
than even to her whose anxieties, hopes, and fears, have 
dictated this long letter. 

" Your ever affectionate, attached friend, 

''Martha Sherman." 

The last written proof of her joy at the increase of 
means of grace for the young, in connexion with Surrey 
Chapel, is a note to Mr. Hadland, on the formation of a 
select class, meeting in the class-room on Sabbath after- 
noons, for the female children of respectable families in 
the congregation, which a young lady of eminent piety 
and suitable education had consented to superintend, 
and to which she sent her daughter as one of the first 
pupils. 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 405 

" As writing is painful to me, I am sure, my dear 
sir, you will excuse me for expressing in few words, my 
heartfelt joy at the proposal in your note, and my 
earnest desire that the parents will not allow trifling 
impediments or inconvenience, to deprive their little ones 
of the long needed privileges now offered them. Three 
years ago, the subject was suggested by yourself, I think, 
and I had lamented that no practical arrangement fol- 
lowed. Now, I trust, the time is come, and God is 
about to answer the many prayers of His people for an 
increase of family religion among us, by fulfilling His 
word, * Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou 
hast perfected praise.' " 
« Clay HiU, September 30rt, 1847." 

As the winter approached, a warmer atmosphere 
became necessary for her comfort, and she removed, 
accompanied by her family, to Hastings, where the loving 
kindness of her Heavenly Father was signally mani- 
fested. She now felt that the ascent of a few stairs 
required greater exertion than she could make, her little 
remaining strength declined daily, but that which glad- 
dened the heart of her husband, and made her path to 
the tomb smoother, was the removal of the mental dark- 
ness, and the return of the joys of God's salvation. On 
Christmas day, four days after her arrival, in the last 
note she was permitted to write, she states her grief that 
her spirit was still clouded. 

"As to your aflfectionate hope for the future, we 
must leave that to Him who is able to heal, if it be 



406 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

His gracioiM will ; and though I strongly cling to life, 
I cannot desire it for one moment, if He see my removal 
better. I can leave it in His hands, I think cheer- 
fully; notwithstanding the dismal doabts that harass 
me. My mind is really a mass of contradictions, and 
I cannot understand myself. Oh, how blissful will it be, 
if all be found right at last ! but my poor spirit is 
much oppressed : may I not be left to dishonour my best 
Friend in this time of the hidings of His blessed face 
from me !'' 

On the Wednesday in the following week, her husband 
who came to London on Saturday, for the duties of his 
charge returned to Hastings, and found the mind of the 
precious invalid still overwhelmed. After she had re- 
tired to rest, he went into her chamber to commend her 
to God, and to comfort her troubled heart with the pro- 
mises of His faithful word. It was a night much to be 
remembered ; the spirit of prayer was poured out, and 
the words of Scripture pleaded in faith, were applied by 
the Spirit of God to her soul. After he rose from his 
knees, the first words from her lips that saluted his ear 
were, " The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a 
broken heart, and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. 
Return unto thy rest, my soul, for the Lord hath 
dealt bountifully with thee, for thou hast delivered my 
soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet bom. 
fialling.'' Relieved by a flood of tears, but without 
rapture or enthusiasm — calm as a summer's eve, after a 
shower of rain has refreshed the earth, and the clouds 
are brilliant with the glory of a setting sun — she began 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 407 

to trace the dealings of God with her soul, from the 
death of her sister to the present hour, in language 
heautifully simple but very affecting, and concluded her 
review by emphatically repeating : — 

'^ True I've been a foolish creature 
And have slighted oft His grace. 
Yet forgiveness is His nature. 
Even when He hides His face : 
After so much mercy past, 
WiU He let me sink at last V* 

To the enquiry whether talking did not distress her, 
she replied, — " Not at all, I am not excited, but re- 
lieved — my mind has never lost its hold of the atone- 
ment ; all along, the sufficiency of my Saviour's merits 
has been my stay ; the covenant of grace has appeared 
like the bow round the throne, representing God's glory 
and my security ; but Satan, taking advantage of a weak 
body, has pressed a defect in my Christian conduct upon 
my spirit, when my faith was not lively enough to 
apply the blood of Christ, for the pardon of that parti- 
cular sin. But when you quoted that passage in your 
prayer, ' We also joy in God through our Lord Jesus 
Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement,' 
light flashed on my mind, as if I had obtained a new 
idea — that while I had been recommending others to 
receive the atonement, rejoicing in its power to save 
them ; and also welcoming it in my judgment as amply 
sufficient to remove all my guilt — I had not received it 
for the sin which oppressed me; and immediately, blessed 
be my Saviour, I did receive it — ^saw the sin as black as 



408 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

ever, but the guilt gone, and I can now rejoice in God 
tlirough Jesus Christ our Lord." 

Then in a celestial strain, she pictured forth tlie 
glories of an unseen world, and especially its perfect holi- 
ness, and seemed borne on wings of faith and love into it. 
Carried away by the surprise and joy of the consecrated 
hour, the writer, overwhelmed as he was, found it im- 
possible to retain in form the expressions which fell 
from her sanctified lips — but their savour will never be 
lost. When he rose to take leave in order that sbe 
might have bodily rest ; as she grasped his hand and 
bid him, " good night," she lifted her joyous eyes to 
heaven and said : — 

** Never let me go till I 
Upborne on wings of love, 
Join the regions of the sky, 
And take my seat above, 
Thou hast passed thy gracious word 
That thou wilt bring me safely through, 
Thou wilt, therefore, keep me Lord, 
And never let me go." 

The conversation of Moses and Elias on the Mount, 
concerning the things which Christ should accomplish at 
Jerusalem, it may be presumed was expressed in language 
and tones suited to the dignity of the glorious theme, and 
that this greatly helped to produce those emotions in the 
hearts of the disciples which led them to exclaim, ** Lord 
it is good to be here.'' And in this interview it was 
remarkably the. case — ^with a countenance not naturally 
deficient in beauty, but now lighted up with intelligent 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 409 

persuasion of her Heavenly Father^s love — ^her eyes bril- ^ j 

liant by disease, now sparkling with conscious joy — ^her 1 

tongue from which the law of kindness had never de- 
parted, now delivering in tones of devotion and tender- i 
ness, and in language sublimely beautiful, descriptions of 
the merit of Ghrist^s death and the glory into which it { 
would introduce her — ^made an impression on the mind 
of the writer, of the place, the subject, and the blessed- ' 
ness of the righteous, which time can never efface : ' 
" Lord it is good to be here,'' naturally rose from his I 
heart, and found utterance in private, where a thank ^ * 
offering was presented for the recent deliverance of the ' 
suffering disciple. It is remarkable that after an exer- 
tion so great to one in extreme weakness, she had a 
better night's rest, and had more vigour for a few days 
than she had experienced for some time. 

She was favoured with repeated visits from the Rev. 
J. Davies, the Rev. J. Vores, and the Rev. C. D. Bell ; 
the latter living near, was kind enough often to spend 
a short time with her in religious exercises as she 
could bear them, and to lend his sermons at her re- 
quest, parts of which were often read to her. He 
shewed both the interest and affection of a Christian 
brother in her affiction : the Lord will reward him ! 
She suggested to this excellent clergyman, the forma- 
tion of a Bible class for young men, and the gratification 
with which she heard of the immediate adoption of her 
hint, was increased before she left Hastings, by intel- 
ligence that the class was increasing in numbers and 
interest. 

T 



410 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

On the 1 7th of January, 1848, she removed from 
White Rock to an exceedingly warm house in Wel- 
lington Square, which yielded more comforts to an 
invalid, and where the violence of the sea was scarcely 
heard or felt. Though a little revived by the change, 
it was clear to all, that the disease was now making 
greater progress, and of this she became more conscious, 
yet struggling against infirmity, to maintain her habits 
of early rising and independent action. At this crisis, 
the advice of Dr. Moore was sought, a physician who 
combines with great practical skill, a deep acquaintance 
with doctrinal and experimental religion, and who has a 
facility and tenderness of communicating it, which renders 
him invaluable to a pious invalid — ^nor less so to one who 
needs piety. To Mrs. Sherman his visits were blessings 
indeed, and his first prescription did more to mitigate 
suffering, and afford rest, than any medicine she had 
previously taken. 

Few things were parted with more reluctantly than 
her little collecting books, containing lists of subscribers 
to the various societies: these she kept in her own 
hands till the very last ; and, even when unable to write 
herself, notes were written by her amanuensis as her 
temporary substitute, either soliciting fresh donations, 
or the continuance of former subscriptions ; so fondly 
did she cling to them, and so long did she apparently 
cherish the hope of again renewing active interest in 
them. A few days, however, before the final opinion of 
Dr. Moore was given of immediate danger, as if antici- 
pating what that opinion would be, she desired that 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 411 

they might be brpught to her, and arranging them 
before her, requested that letters might be written to 
several friends whom she named, bequeathing them as 
legacies to their care. A stranger entering the room 
at that moment would scarcely have noticed the slight 
and transient shade of sadness that passed over her 
brow as she gave this a£fecting commission, it was so 
slight, as only to be discernible by those who knew fuU 
well the inward struggle that had preceded that resolu- 
tion, and so transient, as to disappear almost as soon as 
observed. Her collections for the Jews, — the City 
Mission — the School for Missionaries' Children at 
Walthamstow, the Dorcas and Missionary Societies, — 
were among those intended to be thus distributed, and 
though the sudden return of the family to London, pre- 
vented some of the letters from being written, it is 
believed that all to whom these several collections were 
transferred, consider them in the sacred light of a dying 
bequest. The case of an orphan for whose election into 
the Working School she was solicitous, and of an indi- 
vidual whose soul she had been instrumental in winning 
for her Saviour, were also thus solemnly and earnestly 
commended to Christian friends. 

The School of Industry, which Mr. Hill established 
for clothing and educating thirty girls, had from the 
commencement of her residence in London occupied 
much of her attentive regard, and it was her anxious 
desire to resign her treasurership into hands which would 
sustain and advance its interests. Soon after her return 
to London, she sent for a dear friend and committed 

T 2 



412 MEMOIR OF Mas. SHERMAN. 

to ber this special charge ; it was accepted, and subse- 
quent events have justified ber hopes, for the continued 
prosperity of the school. 

After Dr. Moore had paid her several visits, her 
husband, that he might judge better of her state, be- 
came anxious to learn his candid opinion, and inquired 
if he thought she had passed what was termed the 
second stage of the disease. His reply, in substance, 
instantly was, " Yes, she is now in the last stage, and 
may be removed suddenly and soon, though it is not 
improbable she may linger till April or May — ^home I 
consider the best place for her, to which she ought to 
return as quickly as possible.'" This opinion was ex- 
pressed in great sympathy, but being very unexpected, 
it yielded to her relatives abundant sorrow. 

On her husband now devolved the aflFecting duty of 
announcing to her, that the sickness was unto death. 
With many struggles between afifection and fidelity to 
a promise previously made to her, he accomplished his 
painful task. The serenity with which she listened to the 
communication, and the joy with which she expressed 
that " it was quite a relief to her spirit," not oidy sur- 
prised him, but comforted his bleeding heart. She said, 
" Well, He who loved me, and saved my soul, can save 
and bless my husband and children ; to His faithful 
hands I commend them," the tears gushed fix)m her 
eyes — ^but recovering herself in a minute or two, she 
said, " Do not misunderstand my weeping, that is nature 
feeling the wrench from the objects of its aflFection — 
but my nobler part says, I desire to depart and to be 
with Christ, which is far better." 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 413 

Her friend, Miss Neele, thus records the circnmstances 
which immediately followed this announcement : — 
" When I first saw her after Dr. Moore's opinion of 
more immediate danger had been communicated to her, 
she was lying on the sofa in the drawing-room ; — ^as I 
slowly opened the door, she held out her arms to me, 
with a smile, as if to remove my hesitation, and though 
for a few moments the tear flowed silently down her 
cheek, she said, almost immediately, * When Mr. 
Sherman told me all, I felt conscious that neither heart 
nor pulse moved more quickly, in the least.' I said, 
* Perhaps it was not such a surprise to you ; I dare say 
you were better prepared to receive the intelligence 
than we were.' She answered, ' No, I was not at all 
prepared, — I had given up all expectation of ever being 
well again, but I had no idea that I should leave you so 
soon.' Thus, * perfect peace' within produced perfect 
calmness without ; and as ' Love begets love,' so calm- 
ness produced calmness, and when she subsequently dic- 
tated with unruffled and even cheerful composure, various 
arrangements which she wished made after her decease, 
it was scarcely possible for those around her to feel agi- 
tated, though often themselves wondering, how they could 
be so calm while watching the gradual decay of one 
so beloved." 

On February 13th, she left Hastings for the Par- 
sonage, and arrived there far less fatigued, than could 
have been anticipated from her great weakness ; never 
more to leave it till carried to " the house appointed 
for all living." 



CHAPTER XIII. 



DEATH AND FUNEBAL. 



Immediately after Mrs. Sherman's return to her be- 
loved home, she b^an to set her house in order, as one 
expecting soon to leave it. With regard to herself, 
every thing had long been ready, and she but waited the 
Master's summons to enter into his service in the upper 
sanctuary; but there were arrangements with respect 
to others, which she was desirous of having carried into 
execution before her decease. Her heart was much set 
on seeing once more those friends with whom she had 
prayed and laboured, and on bidding them farewell- 
yet her weakness was such, that her medical attendants 
feared the excitement which such numbers would occa- 
sion, especially as both the visitors and the invalid were 
likely to be much affected with the interview. She 
overruled the objection, by assuring them that the ex- 
citement would be trifling, compared with the refresh- 
ment it would afford her spirit, and that as her recoveiy 
was now past all reasonable hope, she could not resist 
the gratification it would be to herself, and to her asso- 
ciates and classes. Anticipating also that the Saviour 
might call her suddenly to himself, that as her disease 
increased in power, her weakness would be proportionably 
greater, and that if the present opportunity were not 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 415 

seized, she might be unable to see them at all, she deter- 
mined on meeting them as speedily as possible. Accord- 
ingly on Lord's-day, February 14th, when the Sunday 
afternoon class met, all its members were invited to 
come into the study, where reposing on a couch, she was 
waiting to receive them. Between forty and fifty young 
persons were introduced to her singly — each was wel- 
comed with an inexpressibly sweet smile, and had a 
kind word addressed to her ; and those among them who 
traced their conversion to her faithful labours, had a 
special sentence of warning and encouragement. Expect- 
ing to see her emaciated, and sinking almost uncon- 
scious into the arms of death, they were surprised to 
behold a countenance radiant with heavenly joy, and 
to hear words of life and salvation from lips anointed 
with grace. Each kissed her hand, and received from 
her a book as a dying gift. Her husband commended 
them to God in her presence, by a brief prayer. 

On the next day, Monday, the mothers of the hum- 
bler class met in the school-room for their usual exer- 
cise, and were invited to come and take a last glance of 
the loving face, which had so oft welcomed them with 
smiles— cheered them in trouble, and instructed them 
in duty. As no previous notice had been given, they 
were taken by surprise, but their behaviour on this 
occasion justified the dying saint's repeated observation, 
that only let the pious poor feel you take an interest 
in their welfare, without abridging their independence, 
and they will honour and love you. It was delightful 
to witness their tenderness, respect, and gratitude — the 



416 XKMOU OF XBS. SHSKXAH. 

sobdued tones in which they spoke to iheir benefactress, 
and the ddicacy which they exhibited during the sad 
interview. Shaking the hand of each^ and receiying 
the kias of charity npon her own, she bade them &ie- 
weQ with a look of affectionate r^ard, that will not be 
eaaly foigotten. Where special drcomstances required, 
she addressed a few words suitable to the state of the 
mothers before her, which melted many hearts. Her 
husband ddiveied to Ihem the dying charge of their 
Mend and leader — ^to adhere to Christ and his service, 
to maintain their Maternal Association, and to meet 
her in glory ! and then in a short prayer commended 
them also to God. 

On Wednesday, the ladies, who had been accustomed 
to meet at her house once a month to talk over their 
common hope, and the best means of training their 
children for heaven, assembled by appointment for a 
similar purpose. When told that they were waiting to be 
introduced to her, and asked if she had any message, as 
she could with diflSculty speak to them herself— she 
said, '^ I am afraid to say all I feel on the subject of 
these Maternal Associations, lest I should seem to under- 
value any other society connected with the chapel, but 
I do think them of the first importance, and though 1 
trust all will continue to flourish, I would rather any 
should decline than these/' She then added with 
energy, " Oh, tell the ladies never, never, never, to 
forsake the Maternal Associations/' 

A record of this meeting and interview having been 
preserved by the secretary, it is here given. 



ICEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 417 

" The members of the ' Surrey Chapel Maternal Asso- 
ciation/ met in the Library on Wednesday, the 16th of 
February, 1848, and commenced worship by singing the 
two following verses : — 

*' It is the Lord, enthroned in light, 

Whose claims are all divine ; 
Who has an undisputed right 

To govern me and mine. 

It is the Lord. Should I distrust, 

Or contradict His will ! 
Who cannot do but what is just, 

And must be righteous still." 

" One member read part of the fourteenth chapter of 
St. John's gospel ; another entreated the Saviour's bless- 
ing on the solemn interview, a third read the forty-sixth 
Psalm. The secretary then supplicated a blessing on 
their beloved friend, and read the following address : — 

'' We are met under circumstances of deep and solemn 
interest, every heart is sorrowing; a cloud is over- 
shadowing us, which is but partially dispersed, by reason 
of our weak faith, only dimly discovering the bright light 
beyond us. It would be out of season and trifling, at 
such a moment as this, to dwell on the excellencies of 
our beloved and cherished friend, at whose request we 
have met. Her ' meekness of wisdom ' has written on 
our hearts what words can but feebly express. We have 
often * taken knowledge of her,' that she had been hold- 
ing communion with her Saviour, the fragrancy of His 
grace upon her spirit diffused itself around, and the 
refreshment made us glad. Now, it appears she is going 

t3 



418 MEHOIB OF UBS. SHEBMAK. 

home to her Lord, whom ^ unseen ' she has loved, and 
while our hearts mnst rejoice at her heavenly prospects, 
we can hut he in heaviness at the chilling thonght of 
separation. How difficult it is to resign her ! How 
fondly we have cherished the hope in past days, when we 
thns met, that she would he restored to our prayers, and 
that we should have heen permitted the ' dear delight ' 
to journey on with our lovely companion a little further 
through the wilderness. It seems it must not he. She 
has summoned us to attend her (as we suppose,) on the 
hanks of Jordan ; she is unrobing herself of mortality, 
and we look hy faith over the deep dark waters, and see 
the ' shining ones ' on the other side, beckoning her 
across to the shore of blessedness. Shall we wish to 
detain her ? ! selfish that we are, we would not trust 
our hearts to decide the question. It is, however, the 
privilege of the Christian, in the midst of expiring joys 
and scattered hopes, to extract treasures of experience 
and consolation. Let us, therefore, endeavour to gather 
some improvement and comfort even from the present 
solemn dispensation. Let us unite in fervent prayer, 
for a sanctified use of it. May we sincerely renew our 
covenant with God, and afresh consecrate ourselves to 
His service, particularly in our engagements in this 
society, so dear to the heart of our beloved friend. May 
we solemnly engage, as God shall give us grace to bring 
down blessings on her dear children, promised to believ- 
ing prayer. Let our beloved pastor share our best sym- 
pathies, and our fervent supplications. We have reason 
to glorify God for His abounding goodness to His much 



^ MEMOIR OP MBS. SHERMAN. 419 

honoured servant. He has, indeed, drawn large conso- 
lations from the Fountain of all comfort, who has com- 
forted him in all his tribulation, and has enabled him 
to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the com- 
fort wherewith he himself is comforted of God. Let us 
also continue to praise our Heavenly Father for His 
unabated mercies to our beloved friend, in keeping her 
mind in ' perfect peace,' and enabling her, in every 
changing scene, to trust in her unchanging God. What 
remains for us now but to pray that ' so an entrance may 
be ministered to her abundantly into the everlasting 
kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ ;' and 
in the event of this being our final farewell on earth, 
how cheering is the thought, that though our best Friend 
has determined that we must part for a little season. 
He 'will leave our bond of union unbroken,' for ere 
long, every member of the redeemed family shall be 
gathered by the SsllViour's call, and in accordance with 
His prayer, ' Father, I will that they also whom Thou 
hast given me, be with me where I am, that they may 
behold my glory.' — * In His presence is fulness of joy,' 
and there shall our friendship be perfected, no infirmity 
there to impede its full exercise, or check its growth, for 
we shall be ' without fault, before the Throne of God.' 
Let us, therefore, * comfort one another with these words.' 
" After our dear friend Mrs. S — had closed with 
prayer, we retired to the adjoining house, endeared to 
all of us by many sacred and sweet associations. Can 
we ever forget our interview in that chamber ? ' Privi- 
leged,' indeed, it seemed, ' beyond the common walk of 



420 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

virtuous life, just on the verge of heaven.' The calm 
and heavenly expression of our lovely friend hushed our 
agitation ; we beheld her taking firm hold of that 
' anchor of the soul both sure and stedfast, and which 
entereth into that within the veil, whither our Fore- 
runner is for us entered, even Jesus.' Yes ! — 

" Hope, with uplifted foot, set free from earth. 
Pants for the place of her ethereal birth ; 
On steady wings sails through the immense abyss. 
Plucks amaranthine joys from bowers of bliss. 
And crowns the soul, while yet a mourner here^ 
With wreaths like those triumphant spirits wear. 
Hope, as an anchor, firm and sure holds fast 
The Christian's vessel, and defies the blast.'' 

Thus we parted with our dear friend, and after having 
received from her, through our honoured pastor, what 
she called her ' legacy,' to the band of Christian 
mothers, that is, her charge and trust of the Maternal 
Association, which she had formed, supported, and in 
which she had always expressed the most lively interest, 
to their care ; our dear pastor commended us all to the 
care and guidance of God, and we ' returned,' we hope 
in a more prepared state than ever, ' to bless our house- 
holds/ '' 

On Thursday, between thirty and forty of the 
young ladies belonging to the select class came also, 
to utter their adieu to their loving teacher. One of 
them wrote to her after the interview — " The legacy 
you have bequeathed to me, your ' collection for 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 421 

the Jews/ I receive with a heavy heart, not unwil- 
lingly or murmuringly, I hope, but with a conscious- 
ness of unworthiness and unfitness for the task. I 
consider you have conferred a great privilege on me, 
and I shall prize very highly these parting proofs 
of your aflFectionate regard. The meeting on Thurs- 
day can never be forgotten : may it have a last- 
ing and beneficial effect on all. We then saw that 
true religion was not merely a profession, but a reality. 
My prayer has ever been, * Lord, spare her,' yet 
the wish seems selfish to detain you from going home 
to your heavenly Father. The cheering thought that 
Jesus is the resurrection and the life, strengthens my 
faith, and enables me to look beyond the silent tomb, 
to the blissful state of those who are for ever with 
the Lord, knowing that if I am among his believing 
children, but a few years at most will separate us, and 
then we shall meet again where partings are unknown. 
May you have your heart's desire in meeting all your 
beloved class there ! Many will then appear among the 
children whom God has given you, and though since you 
have been laid aside from active usefulness, the thought 
may sometimes have arisen that you have been useless, 
God has in many instances, though perhaps unknown to 
you, blessed your instructions to others. Many a kind 
hint thrown out by you has been received, and the advice 
attended to. No one could ever mistake your earnest- 
ness and affiection — ^your constant desire to win our souls 
to Christ. ' We remember your sayings,' and in looking 
back on the past, desire to feel grateful that we have 



422 HEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

been privileged with your example and kind instructions 
80 long. Accept, my dearest friend, my best and sin- 
cere thanks for all your kindness to me ; I have indeed 
been a favoured child. I have always considered myself 
as one of your children, for it was in your class, ten 
years ago, that I first felt a desire to be the Lord's. I 
owe much to you in other respects — in any difficulty, 
you were the first to encourage me ; in undertaking 
any new and untried duties, the knowledge that I had 
my friend's prayers, stimulated me to exertion when I 
b^an to feel weary and despair of success ; and espe- 
cially in winning the timid disciple, by setting forth 
religion in its sweetest aspects, and by the lovely exhi- 
bition in yourself of the Christian character. Farewell, 
dearest friend, may you still continue to enjoy much of 
your Saviour's presence and perfect peace in the prospect 
of death." 

The refreshment of a spiritual exposition of scripture, 
and a brief prayer, to an invalid, is well known by those 
who have been in a state of sufiering. It was the pri- 
vilege of her husband to be her daily minister, and 
morning and evening, to seize the most favourable 
opportunities to conduct her tender spirit into the green 
pastures of the good Shepherd, but it was suggested to 
her, that a visit from some man of God might cheer and 
help her. She immediately said, ^'I have no special 
wish for any one — ^if Mr. George Clayton could spare a 
few minutes,. I should like to hear his voice in prayer — 
his gentle manner would suit my weakness, and he is 



MEMOIR OF MES. SHERMAN. 423 

sure to say something to me about Christ, my gracious 
Master, and his salvation/' An intimation of her wish 
was enough ; the Rev. G. Clayton was with her the next 
day, and continued his kind attentions till prayer was 
exchanged for praise. The comfort she derived from 
these visits was indeed great, and she felt deeply her ob- 
ligations to her sympathizing friend. The elders of the 
church, with whom she had for twelve years walked in 
harmonious co-operation, and who had ever shown a 
readiness to aid her in all her works of love to souls, 
were entreated by her, each, in his turn, to come and 
commend her spirit to God. The Rev. Dr. Harris 
and the Rev. Newman Hall, also favoured her with 
their counsels and prayers. The constant attentions 
and invaluable spiritual aid of her old friend, Miss 
' Neele, were unspeakably delightful to the invalid — she 

' often remarked, how gracious her Saviour had been to 

provide her such a companion in the season of sickness. 
To her memoranda, the following pages are indebted for 
f many circumstances and observations, which must other- 

;^ wise have been wholly lost. 

'^' The Bible was the only book which she cared to hear 

I ' read, except occasionally a hymn from the Invalid's hymn 

y book, or her husband's selection, with which she was 

it- most familiar. At first she was guided as usual in her 

P reading by the " Scripture Calendar," which she pre- 

ee*' ferred to any other, because it arranged for the perusal 

?"r of the New Testament and Psalms twice, and the Old 

^ Testament once, in the course of the year, but now she 

^/c: said, " I think I may be allowed to pick and choose a 



424 MEMOIR OF MKS. SHEEMAIf. 

chapter suited to my state/' allading to a remark which 
she had often made, that the whole Bible should be 
regularly read. The first chapter of the Epistle to the 
Colossians might be called her favourite; she asked for it 
to be read more frequently than any other ; the first and 
second chapters of Ephesians, and the eighth of Romans, 
with the thanksgiving Psalms were also often selected. 
After being in bed a short time one evening, she said, 
" Oh ! I am so comfortable — in perfect peace — I do 
realise that promise, * Thou wilt keep Him in perfect 
peace whose mind is staid on thee.' Now for a chapter 
— ^that sublime one which speaks of the hope laid up 
in heaven.'' When it had been read, she exclaimed, 
" Oh ! I want a distiller to distil all its sweetness — my 
poor mind cannot dwell long enough upon it to extract 
the joys it aflFords." Those words being quoted, " Ye have 
need of patience," she said, " that does not seem appli- 
cable to me — I mean I have so many mercies that my 
patience does not seem tried." On the next day, hear- 
ing the merriment of her children in another room, 
her eyes filled vdth tears, and she exclaimed, " Oh, that 
sweet prattle — ^those enchanting voices to a mother's 
ear:" thinking they were too noisy, her friend was 
leaving the room to induce them to be quiet, but she 
said, " Oh, don't check them, I love to hear their joyous 
notes, when I can bear them ; but I cannot help feeling 
a little anxious, because I fear there is some danger of 
the little one being spoiled — she will be such a pet.'' 
Of another, she said, ^' Oh, for some hopeful sign before 
I die!" 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 425 

February 2\st, — Was a day of comparative ease, 
which allowed her to have a little more conversation 
with her husband and friend, than her cough usually 
permitted. Her spirit seemed on the borders of the 
heavenly Canaan, looking in and returning every now 
and then to tell those around her of its blessedness. '^ I 
want to mention one subject,"' she said to her friend, 
" though I hardly like to do so, as perhaps such a thing 
may never be contemplated, but as there was an Obituary 
of dear mamma in the Evangelical Magazine, perhaps, as 
a minister's wife, there might be one of me, and it is so 
repugnant to my feelings." " Had you not better," said 
her friend, " leave that to the judgment of others — ^it 
will not hurt your feelings then." " Well," she replied, 
" there are no papers— not one. I kept a diary once, but 
I destroyed it, as the possibility of its ever being made 
public, so completely spoiled the profit and 'comfort I 
derived from it, that I would not keep it — I felt it was 
no longer only between God and my own soul. It was 
chiefly a record of my sentiments before I was decided, 
and was very useful to me then. If there should be one, 
Oh, pray for a spirit of wisdom and judgment on the 
writer— else it will be such a partial account, dictated 
by a heart overflowing with love.'' On repeating that 
verse to her, " For thou Lord wilt bless the righteous, 
with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield," 
she remarked, *' What a comfort to have no opposition 
from man, to have no human enemy, and even Satan 
seems hardly able to get at me, I have so many praying 
friends ; but specially my Saviour interceding for me." 



426 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHBRMAN. 

Her husband read to her the following quaint, though 
beautiful hymn of good Mr. Berridge : — 

^ The Lord of the earth, to Adam allied, 
Sends messengers forth to fetch Him a bride ; 
To many He chooseth His love to impart. 
And none He refuseth who give Him their heart. 

Strange mflcrriagey indeed, for Heaven's fair King, 
Yet Jesos will wed with any poor thing ; 
He liketh the maimed, the halt, and the blind. 
The poor and defamed, the lowest in kind. 

So after the banns are published below, 
Comes joining of hands, with joined hearts too ; 
Then debts are discharged, though heavy they be. 
And she is enlarged, from bondage set free. 

A rich wedding^suit is to the bride brought, 
Of love the sweet fruit, and by the King wrought ; 
With this he does cover her nakedness quite, 
And deck her all over, as fair as the light. 

A ring for the bride is from the King sent, 
With jewels beside, to deck her heart meant ; 
With these she grows loving, and modest, and mild. 
In good works improving, and seemeth a child. 

Now Christ is her song, her joy, and her hope ; 
She for Him will sigh, and long to look up ; 
And He from His tower peeps on her e^erwhile. 
And tells His love to her, and drops her a smile. 

At length the approach of wedding is come, 
And, lo, a state-coach to fetch the bride home ; 
Kind angels are bringing her fast as she list. 
And up she goes singing, Hosanna to Christ." 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. ^ 427 

" Oh, that is exquisite — ^read that last verse again."' 
" But you did not expect to go up singing, did you V 
" Yes, I did, though I was under a cloud — ^heaviness 
may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning 
— I know I shall go up singing — ^read it again."' 

On another evening, after much pain and exhaustion, 
" Oh, it is hard to get into bed without prayer : but He 
knows I would pray, if I could — my knees, in health, 
have bent with cheerfulness before him, my most hal- 
lowed joys have been in the devotions of my closet — 
and the savour of that communion is not lost yet — ^but 
I can now only mentally cry, in brief sentences, for His 
help and favour.'" Again, after a little pause, " I fear 
I do not feel that love to immortal souls which I ought 
— surely the nearer I get to heaven, the more I ought' 
to feel for souls. If one scheme fails, love devises 
another, till it accomplishes its object — ^but I seem to 
do nothing for Christ and souls now. I am obliged to 
resolve all my difficulties into this appeal, ^ Lord, thou 
knowest all things, thou knowest that I love thee." " 

On the evening of February 24th, she fell asleep on 
the sofa, but was continually awaked by the cough. 
Upon being suddenly aroused by a distressing fit, she 
said, '^ Is it not strange, that no sooner do I drop asleep 
than the cough awakes me ;"' but added cheerfully, " it 
is only a trial of patience— I sometimes think my 
patience is not exercised, but the poor body does 
need it sometimes.'* To a request that she woi^ld not 
destroy the notes of her class subjects, as she wished, 
and as she had almost all her other papers, she replied, 



428 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAK. 

" Oh, they are so defective, they contain little expla- 
nation of the great doctrines of the gospel — a reference 
and a hint were quite enough for me as a guide while 
speaking; my heart was so full of them, I knew I 
should not forget them — ^but I should not like my chil- 
dren, when they grow up, to think they were omitted by 
me. It is not the gospel if they are left out — ^it may 
be truth, but not 'the truth as it is in Jesus' — not 
' glad tidings of great joy to all people.' Usefulness to 
souls, which consists in biassing the mind of the hearer 
to heavenly things, so that they become natural to him, 
will never be effected but by the motives, doctrines, 
and influences of the gospel. This I conceive is what 
Christ means, when He says, ' Sanctify them through 
thy truth, thy word is truth.' '' 

February 26th was a day of extreme suffering — ^but 
during an interval of ease, her husband uttered a few 
words on Christ, as the way to the Father, and how 
safely and cheerfully, afflicted spirits might take advan- 
tage of that appointed access. " Yes," she replied, 
" Old Berridge just describes my feelings on that very 
subject — 

** Of Christ I chirp and siDg, 

And when He casts an eye, 
I flutter up with brisker wing, 

And warble in the sky. 

<^ 

Such is my pleasant task, 

To sing of this sweet road ; 

And if the cause a stranger ask, 

It is my ipay to God." 

When laid down for rest at night, being asked what 



MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 429 

chapter she would like read— -she whispered with all her 
remaining strength, " one of the beautiful psalms of 
praise." 

March 2nd, — Her exhaustion was so great, that she 
thought death was approaching. The next day, when 
a little recovered, she said, " I thought it surely must 
be death ; it was a solemn moment — a solemn moment 
indeed, but I was not agitated : I felt even then, that I 
had nothing to do but to commit myself to Christ, and 
it seemed quite easy and natural to do so.'' When a 
little refreshed by sleep, she began speaking of the illness 
from which her husband was at that time suffering. " It 
is such an unexpected trial, however, I must roll that on 
the Lord." Being reminded of the command, " In every 
thing by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let 
your requests be made known unto God," she replied, 
'' Thanksgiving seems even more congenial to me, or 
perhaps I should say, more spontaneous, than prayer ; 
I feel it specially on first waking. Just now, when I 
awoke, my heart seemed to go forth in praise, and I felt 
such confidence in God, when I thought of my dear 
husband's illness." 

The next evening, her husband repeated a hymn 
which he had seen in the collection of the Rev. J. 
Grauntlett. On hearing it, she remarked, " That is 
sweetness itself — the most compi*ehensive hymn I ever 
heard for a dying Christian. Tou must repeat it to me 
till I can go through it without a mistake ;" after a 
third repetition, she mastered the four verses, and almost 
every day, till her death, quoted the whole, or some verse. 
The hymn is as follows : — 



430 MBMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAN. 

** What is it for a saint to die, 

That we the thoug^ht should fear ! 
'lis but to pass the heavenly sky, « 

And leave pollution here. 

True, Jordan's stream is wondrous deep, 

And Canaan's walls are high ; 
But He that guards us while we sleep, 

Will * guide us when we die. 

A parting world, a gaping tomb, 

Corruption and disease, 
Are thorny paths to heaven, our home, 

And doors to endless bliss I 

Etqrnal glory just before, 

And Jesus waiting there ; 
A heavenly gale to waft us o'er, — 

What have the saints to fear !" 

It was found necessary, for the last three or four 
months, to administer an opiate almost daily, to procure 
rest at night, and she sometimes expressed a fear lest it 
should occasion her mind*io wander : " Should I become 
irritable, or be permitted to say any thing inconsistent 
with the Christian profession, I hope all who know me 
will remember it is an infirmity, the effect of disease or 
medicine. Entreat my friends to pray, that if it be the 
will of God, my intellect may be preserved unclouded to 
the last.'' Her desire was fully granted, for just at 
this time God was pleased to direct her friends to Dr. 
Maclean, of Montague Square, who, in conjunction with 
her ordinary medical attendant, Mr. Newth, so judi- 
ciously administered the necessary opiates, and so care- 

* The word in the original hymn is ''can," but she always 
used *• will," and corrected others when they repeated * can." 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 431 

fiilly watched their operation, that, while unexpected 
relief was often obtained, the dreaded eyil was never 
experienced. She frequently said how deeply she was 
indebted to her physician for his skill and kindness, 
and how earnestly she would have recommended him to 
others in similar circumstances, had her life been spared. 
As she had for several months been denied the privi- 
lege of partaking of the Lord's Supper, she wished to 
have it administered to her privately, in communion 
with her own family and a few chosen friends ; but in 
so large and affectionate a circle, it was found difficult 
to reduce the number sufficiently, as she was unable 
to bear the excitement of a large assembly. It was 
therefore determined to confine the little company to 
the members of her family, the elders of the church, 
the Rev. J. S. Eastmead, and the kind Mend who 
had undertaken her young ladies' class. On March 
16th, they assembled in the study, where she lay on 
a couch, and the visitors, seventeen in number, sat 
around the room. That " upper room," no one who was 
present will ever forget. She had often expressed a 
desire to " hear that sweet hymn sung once more " — 

** There is a happy land, far, far, away, 
Where saints in glory stand, bright, bright, as day. 
Oh I how they sweetly sing. Worthy is our Saviour King, 
Loud let his praises ring, praise, praise, for aye. 

Gome to this happy land, come, come, away ; 

Why will ye doubting stand, why still delay ? 

Oh ! we shaU happy be, when from sin and sorrow free, 

Lord we shaU live with thee, blest, blest for aye. 



432 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

Bright in that happy land beams every eye, — 
Kept by a Father's hand, love cannot die. 
On then to glory run, be a crown and kingdom won. 
And bright above the sun, reign, reign for aye." 

It was therefore suggested, that some of the children 
from the Infant School should sing it, before the com- 
mencement of the sacramental service. They were placed 
in an adjoining room, whence their infantine voices, soft- 
ened by distance, and subdued by the solemnity of the 
occasion, cheered without exciting the spirit of the pre- 
cious invalid, so soon about to enter that " happy land/' 
of which they so sweetly sung. 

The address of dear Mr. Clayton, and his mode of 
conducting the whole service, were pecuKarly appropriate, 
edifying, and affecting, and the delight she experienced, 
from the refreshment of soul, and the sensible enjoyment 
of her Saviour**s presence at the celebration of this feast 
of love, was much increased by the addition to the num- 
ber of its guests, for the first time, of two of her servants, 
one of whom attributed her decision, to the exhibition of 
the power of religion to sustain, and cheer in the hour of 
sickness, which she had witnessed in her beloved mis- 
tress. When asked what arrangement she wished to be 
made, she answered " Let that be left to Mr. Clayton, 
but there are two parts of the communion service 
which I should like to hear again ; the prayer com- 
mencing * We do not presume to come to this thy table 
trusting in our own righteousness \ and the anthems, 
beginning ' Therefore with angels and archangels, and 
with all the company of heaven,' and * Glory be to 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 433 

God on high/ &c., she added, " I hope all will join — I 
will, if I am able/' and this she did in as audible a 
whisper as her weakness would allow. Her countenance 
was lightened with the sunshine of heaven, and she 
seemed (as she said after the service concluded) as 
though she was but echoing the joyous notes of the 
angels and the spirits of the just made perfect. After 
a collection had been made in the room by her special 
request for the Lord's poor, which amounted to about 
twelve pounds, to be afterwards distributed by the elders 
among some objects, which she especially selected — the 
little company separated to meet no more unitedly till 
they sat down at the marriage-supper of the Lamb. 

March \%th, — One of her young friends who came to 
take leave of her, expecting only to shake hands without 
speaking, being surprised to find her looking so cheerful 
and animated, said, " I am glad to see you so well'' — 
the dear invalid answered with a smile — 

^ Jesns can make a dying bed, 
Feel soft as downy pillows are ; 
While on his breast I lean my head. 
And breathe my life out sweetly there." 

March \9th. — Was the Sabbath. After hearing the 
notes of the morning sermon on 2 Sam. xxiii. 5, read, 
she remarked, *' Yes, I know the covenant is sure, and 
it is sure to me, and though I cannot always realize it, 
that does not alter its security. All these glorious 
things seem to carnal reason a dream, but they are not 
— I feel them to be heavenly realities." 

March 2Qth. — The symptoms were very alarming, and 



434 MEMOIR OF MRS. SHERMAlT. 

immediate danger was apprehended, but towards even- 
ing she revived, and was cheerful as usual. When the 
family were at chapel, she said, "I wonder whether I 
shall be here next Sunday. I am come to this point 
now, — anticipation ; whenever the message comes it will 
be welcome. The pins of the tabernacle must be taken 
out, and they are being removed very gently : how I 
shall rejoice when the last is pulled up, and the taber- 
nacle falls." Her friend replied, " What a blessing 
to meet the last enemy without fear." She immediately 
said with great composure, " I have no fear, he is not 
an enemy, at least he has no power to hurt me." A 
friend remarking, " Well, there is not much to Uve 
for." With quickness she observed, " Oh, but I have 
much to live for. I have no sympathy with those who 
talk thus. I suppose I have had fewer crooks than 
they ; my path has been such an unusually happy one, 
but should it not be a Christian's desire, if it be the 
will of God to Uve, and glorify him by the spread of 
his truth? Since I have felt there was no hope of 
recovery, I have been wonderfully relieved from anxiety 
respecting the dear ones left behind. I cannot sufifer 
myself to think much about them, but I know that 
He to whom I have committed my soul, will take care 
of them. My early removal is indeed a blight upon all 
our plans — ^is it not ? I may say, ' I am cut off in the 
midst of my days ;' we were so happy." Thus shewing 
that her composure did not arise from insensibility. 

April \9th. — An old friend and former play-fellow 
called to take leave of her — in childhood and youth they 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 435 

had spent many, many happy days together, and the 
sight of him filled her eyes with tears, hnt she soon 

recovered and said, " Oh, J , tears are not often 

seen in my eyes, but I am so weak in body and mind 
now, I am scarcely able to speak to you ; but I shall 
soon be where my tongue will be unloosed, and I shall 
serve my God without weakness, either of soul or body. 
Mind — be sure you meet me there/' Then giving him, 
" Christ on the Cross,'' as a parting memorial, she added, 
" The Cross of Christ is all my support and hope. Oh, 
that I had a tongue to urge all to seek refuge there ! 
Is it not a comfort to feel the sting of death removed V* 
The intelligent and manly traveller whom she thus 
pointedly addressed was quite overcome, giving evi- 
dence by his emotion, that neither her words nor manner 
of uttering them had been lost on him. May all 
her wishes be realised. When he was gone, she said, 
" I did not convey half my meaning — I wanted to exalt 
my Master more." She usually dropped a word in season 
to each of her visitors and attendants, and when unable 
to do so, it was one of her greatest crosses — " I know," she 
said, '' I can say little worth being remembered, but a 
word which at another time might be thought little of, 
spoken by one under my circumstances, may make an 
impression and be remembered hereafter." 

21s*. — Was Good Friday ; when she awoke, per- 
ceiving her nurse standing by her bed-side, she said, 
" Ah ! this is a memorable day — our blessed Saviour 
was crucified for us on this day. By his death He has 
taken away the sting of death from me, and now it is a 

u 2 



436 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

pleasure to look forward to it." She asked one, who had 
not seen her for several days, if she saw any alteration 
in her, receiving for answer, she did not ; with a very 
sdgnificant nod and smile, she replied, " there is a very 
material alteration, I am so many days nearer home."' 

27th. — This being a day of increased pain and 
weariness, there was an expression of distress on her 
usually placid countenance which was very aflFecting to 
witness. A promise being whispered to her, imme- 
diately a sweet smile (the only sign of pleasure she 
was able to give) confirmed the beautiful sentiment of 
Cowper : — 

** How sweet the name of Jesos sonnds 
In a believer's ear." 

On her fiiend expressing a wish that some resting-place 
could be contrived for her back, as she sat up wearied 
on the sofa, afraid to lie down, on account of the irrita- 
tion of the cough, she replied, " I shall soon have one," 
and then looking up joyfully asked, evidently hoping to 
be answered in the aflirmative — " Do you not think I 
am sinking now V 

2Sth. — She had often said, that the time which 
she most enjoyed was just before going to sleep, when 
the cough which was usually very troublesome, after first 
lying down in bed, was beginning to subside a little; but 
this afternoon she called her friend to her, and said, " I 
have had such a delightful time for thinking, so unusual 
during the day. My communion with my Lord, was 
sweet indeed. Who says that religion is not a reality ? 
Oh, if they had enjoyed the precious promises of God, 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 437 

the assurance of the forgiyeness of sins, and the cer- 
tainty of dwelling for ever in a house not made with 
hands eternal in the heayens, because purchased by my 
Kedeemer's blood, and prepared by his glorious resi- 
dence — as I have done this day, they would say as I can, 
' that which we have seen with our eyes, and our hands 
have handled, declare we unto you.' I must say I was 
glad to hear that the expectoration was un&vourable, 
because I know it is a sign that the end is near. Do 
you think, it is wrong to feel so ? I have been examin- 
ing, and I do not think it is. Oh, the thought of being 
soon freed from sin — ^it is too much — ^too overpowering. 
I do not think I wish death, to be released from suffer*- 
ing ; though the flesh will shrink from that." 

29th. — Was a day in which extreme weakness 
was experienced. When she heard the voice of her 
youngest child, she called her, and had her placed for 
a moment on her knees. Looking at her with inex- 
pressible tenderness, she said, "Mamma, is going to 
heaven — ^will my precious child meet me there?" the 
dear little creature replied with energy, " Yes, mamma," 
the answer awoke strong emotion, and prevented her 
from saying more. 

May 10th. — The Annual Sermon for the London Mis- 
sionary Society, was preached at Surrey Chapel^ by the 
Rev. Dr. Candlish. When her friend went to her in the 
morning, she was much exhausted for want of rest ; 
after a little refreshing sleep, she said, " Read me about 
the Covenant with Abraham and his seed, that I may feel 
encouraged about my precious children" — " Yes, there 



438 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAlSr. 

is my hope, ' I will be a God to thee, and to thy seed 
after thee/ Surely, He has been a God to me ! — Who, 
but He could have borne with me and helped me till 
now — I will trust him for mine/' When that text was 
repeated, " Though I walk through the valley of the 
shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with 
me, thy rod and thy staflF, they comfort me,'' she whispered 
something, which her friend thought was asking for 
a hymn, and went to fetch the book ; but she repeated 
in a loud whisper, striking the bed to intimate a feeling 
she was unable to express — " He never will forsake me." 
In the course of the morning, Toplady's hymn was read, 
beginning, "When languor and disease invade,'' &c. On 
coming to that verse : — 

** Sweet to rejoice in lively hope. 
That .when my change shall come, 
Angels will bear my spirit up 
To my eternal home.'' 

She said, "Ah ! angels carried Eowland Hill's spirit from 
this room. Will it not be an honour to be escorted into 
my Saviour's presence from the same spot ?" 

After the service, she expressed a wish, " to see dear 
Mr. James, of Birmingham, he was the instrument of 
bringing my husband to Surrey Chapel, his piety has 
always appeared to me very eminent, and God has signally 
owned his treatises, which have but one object, the win- 
ning of souls to our Divine Lord. I should like to 
shake him by the hand and hear his sanctified voice in 
prayer, before I meet him in heaven." Mr. James came 
in, and thus describes his impressions. 



MBMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 439 

** The interview which I was privileged myself to hold 
with Mrs. Sherman, about a week before her dismissal, 
was a scene to which I recollect no parallel, and which 
it is quite impossible for me either to forget or describe. 
Her countenance, beautiful even in death, was lighted 
up with a smile, that looked rather like the joy which 
we can conceive illuminates the soul emerging from the 
cold stream of death, as a dreaded event that was over, 
than of one who was looking forward to it, as just at 
hand. It was not only a smile in death, but it was a 
smile at death. It was the morning of the Missionary 
Sermon in this place ; when she could hear the sound 
of the organ, and the chorus of praise rising from the 
congregated host, and which in bygone times she had 
helped to swell ; she could hear the hum of voices, 
and the sounds of recognition and gratulation be- 
neath her window, of the tribes that had come up to 
Zion ; and there was she, in the chamber of sickness, 
on the bed of death, contrasting her situation with 
the gladsome circumstances of multitudes in all the 
vigour of life and the joyousness of health. If a mo- 
mentary cloud, a passing gloom, had come over the 
spirit from such a contrast, who could have wondered ? 
yea, who does not wonder that it did not ? But it did 
not. The Sun of Righteousness in cloudless splendour 
shone upon her soul, which reflected his beams, in that, 
— I repeat — ^most heavenly smile that I ever saw upon 
the countenance of any human being in life or death. 
She seemed standing within the precincts of glory ; and 
the only thing that reminded me of mortality, was the 



440 HEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 

wasted form, and the natural tear she dropt — but wiped 
it soon — ^which, though it glistened in her eye, still 
sparkling, did not for a moment interrupt the ineffable 
joy. I felt — ^yea, I said to her, * If this be dying, who 
would not lie down, and die with you, if they could die 
like you?' She would have talked, if the strength of her 
body had been equal to the vigour of her soul; but 
every syllable she uttered was descriptive of a ' peace 
that passeth understanding,' a ^joy unspeakable and 
full of glory.' Could such a scene as that be witnessed 
in public — as it must be witnessed to be known, for no 
words can describe it — Christianity would, one should 
suppose, then appear to all men a Divine reality, a hea- 
venly plant, an eternal substance, and no man would 
have power or heart, except he were a demon, to say 
aught against it. Before that scene, the loftiest phi- 
losopher must be humbled, infidelity turn pale and 
silent, and folly and vice, for a brief season, become 
serious, and disposed to say, ' Let me die the death of 
the righteous, and let my last end be like hers.' " 

May \^th. — One of the elders who visited her, stated 
that he could never forget the peculiar and inexpressible 
unction which accompanied the few sentences she was 
enabled to utter, which gave him the impression that 
heaven had indeed come down to her, and that she 
could not be far from it. One, he particularly records ; 
— ^looking at him, as Mr. James describes, — she said, 
'' I am now lying at the foot of his cross, I shall soon 
stand before His throne." A cloud, though a bright 
one, seemed in the evening to rest upon her spirit — ^sto 



MEMOIR OF MES. SHERMAN. 441 

was howeyer able to conTerse with her husband ; but 
how can he describe the interview — she was the com- 
forter, and he the mourner. Her tongue dropped sen- 
tences like sweet-smelling myrrh to his afficted spirit — 
her faith grasped the promises ; and twice or thrice, 
adapting the action to the metaphor, she put some of 
them, which she repeated, into his hands, as a wife's 
legacy — " the words of a living and faithful God.*' 
Then looking forward to the " rising growth'' of her 
children — she described Christ as taking first the eldest, 
and guiding her as a lamb into his fold — saw her useful 
in teaching and gathering others to her Saviour : then 
the little one, who, by her docility and tenderness dur- 
ing her affliction, had greatly endeared herself to her 
mother's heart, following her sister in the same happy 
course, " blessed and a blessing." A pause ensued — 
she appeared full of thought — ^the tears gushed from her 
eyes, and in tones of tenderest sympathy, she exclaimed, 
" God I my son, my son — convert, save my son !" 

Recovering herself, and resuming her heavenly smile, 
she took her husband's hand, saying, " Thirteen years 
of more bliss has been granted to us than ordinarily falls 
to the lot of most, even of the children of God ; we have 
had much to do for Christ, and that has made us happy ; 
we have talked of His grace, united in His ordinances, 
and loved his service ; my work, feeble as it has been, 
is done — ^but your's — the Lord lengthen your term of 
labour, for the sake of my babes ! — ^may be extensive. 
Forgive a wife, if with her dying breath, she say, preach 
Christ and his salvation more fully, more conspicuously, 

u 3 



442 HEMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAK. 

more feelingly, than ever. It has heen I know your aim 
to exalt him all your life ; but let your remaining efforts 
in the pulpit extol him and make him yery high. I am 
sure I am very near death, and fearing I may not be 
able to speak when he comes, it has comforted me to 
tell you my heart. Do not weep — cheer up — Christ 
your Master will give you strength and grace, and we 
shall meet after a few short years to dwell in the full 
blaze of glory and immortality." 

May Ihth. — The Members of the London Mis- 
sionary Society, met at Surrey Chapel, to celebrate the 
death of Christ, by partaking of the Lord's Supper ; 
after the service, the Rev. D. J. Smith, of Dublin, prayed 
with her, but her exhaustion was so great, that she lay 
apparently unconscious to all around. About an hour 
afterwards, the Rev. James Parsons, of York, saw her — 
she had by that time so far recovered, as to be able to 
whisper a few words in answer to questions, which he 
proposed, and to attend to the petitions which he kindly 
offered. The next day, she said, " the last hymn which 
they sang in the Chapel, reminded me how they were 
engaged, and I felt I could join in spirit with them. 
Afterwards such joy was diffused through my soul that 
I cannot describe the sensation it produced. I seemed 
to be holding communion with a dear friend, whom I 
had not seen for some time, and the moments were so 
precious, that even the presence of those good men was, 
at first, an interruption.'" Being told that the Rev. Mr. 
Smith, concluded the service, with a very impressive 
prayer, in which she was specially mentioned, she replied. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 443 

" Was not the joy I felt at that very time, an immediate 
answer to that prayer ? That promise was fulfilled in 
this instance, While they are yet speaking, I will hear." 

On the 17th of May, it was evident that death 
was approaching, but to the surprise of all, she rallied 
again, and slept tolerably well during the night. 

About twelve o'clock, on the 18 th, no doubt could 
remain what the result mnst soon be. The first inti- 
mation of the actual approach of death, was given 
by the precious invalid herself. She took the hand of 
the nurse, smiled, and shook it, and beckoned the 
cook to come and receive the same token of aflFection. 
Then looking round for the housemaid, in whom for 
four years, she had taken the deepest interest, she 
grasped her hand when she entered the room with great 
emotion, and pointed upwards. The struggle for breath, 
the excessive pain in the side, and the convulsive agony 
of the whole frame were fearful ; but the celestial joy 
within, surpassed the expectations of all the family, 
every member of which was present, except her vene- 
rable father. To the last, her intellect was unimpaired, 
and her speech sufficiently loud to be heard. The hour 
of death is always solemn — ^it was specially felt to be so 
on this occasion ; and the fear was, lest any intrusive 
conversation should interrupt the communion, which it 
was evident her sanctified spirit was holding with her 
Redeemer. None doubted her safety, if she had not 
uttered a word, yet for the conviction of some, and the 
comfort of all, a few questions at intervals were put, 
the answers to which shewed the stability of her hope* 



444 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

** The long looked-for hoiir is come, my dear,'' said her 
husband. " It is," she replied, "blessed be my Sayiour T' 
" You have long professed that Christ was precious, — is 
He precious to you now?'" Lifting up her almost flesh- 
less arms and hands, like the wings of a bird ready to 
fly, she let them fall on the bed, and exclaimed, '^ Infi- 
nitely, infinitely I" '^ Have you, my precious one, any 
consciousness of the irmnediatefTeBence of Jesus Christ ?*" 
Pausing for a moment, she replied, " No ; I do not know 
what that is, — ^my consciousness is the consciousness of 
faith. I know that He is with me, by the support and 
ineffable consolations He pours into my soul ; but I shall 
soon know what it is, for I shall be with Him, and be 
like him." " Then, like David, you can say, you fewr 
no evil in the dark valley." She replied, " the valley is 
very long, but not dark — ^for He is with me in it, — 
" His rod and His staff comfort me V " Then you can 
bear testimony to your children, that a life spent in the 
service of Ood is a most pleasant and profitable life V 
As if making an effort beyond her strength to say some- 
thing which her heart dictated, but finding it impossible, 
she again raised her arms as before, and replied with 
energy, " / can ! I can r " What now, when earth is 
vanishing, is your sole dependence for acceptance with 
God, at the great day V " Only the perfect and finished 
righteousness of the Lord Jesus Christ :" — 

' Nothing in my hand I bring, 
Simply to the Cross I cling.' ** 

Many other precious words and sentences fell firom 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 445 

her lips ; but these will suffice to show the fulness of 
lier joy, and what an abundant entrance was given her 
into the kingdom of her God and Saviour. At a little 
after three o'clock, she requested to be left with the 
servants, but in a few minutes the family were sum- 
moned to witness the last convulsive struggle with the 
enemy, which had just commenced, and at twenty 
minutes to four o'clock on Thursday afternoon, May 18th, 
1848, in the 42nd year of her age, she fell asleep in 
Jesus. 

Although the painful event had been long expected, 
its announcement produced general and sincere sorrow 
throughout the congr^tion and neighbourhood, and 
to a large circle of friends, who evinced the tenderest 
sympathy for her bereaved husband and family. The 
funeral was appointed to take place on Thursday, 
May 25th, at Abney-park Cemetery, where the family 
vault is situated, and in which the remains of her 
beloved mother are deposited. A large number of per- 
sons, especially of the poor, assembled in the chapel- 
yard to witness the departure of the mournful pro- 
cession, which left the parsonage at eleven o'clock. 
The hearse was followed by twelve mourning coaches, 
which contained the relatives of the deceased, the 
officiating ministers, the trustees, the elders of the 
church, and many of the most devoted friends con- 
nected with the congregation, next to these were four 
private carriages, gent by their owners, to show their 
aflFectionate esteem for the pastor's wife, in which were 
seated her children, a few female friends, and the ser- 



446 HSMOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAK. 

yants of the family. As a mark of respect^ many shops 
in the line of the cavalcade were closed, and tears were 
dropped from many spectators who had once witnessed 
her devoted zeal, or received help from her kind hand. 
On the arrival of the body at its earthly resting place, 
the scene was peculiarly affecting : the poor women of 
the Maternal Association, over which the departed 
saint had presided, and the young people of her classes 
dressed in respectfal mourning, lined the pathway to the 
Cemetery chapel, deeply sorrowing that they should see 
her face no more. Friends from the congregation and 
from various parts, amounting it was computed to not 
fewer than 2000 persons^ assembled in the Cemetery, to 
show by their presence and habiliments, a last token of 
affectionate regard. When the body was placed in the 
Cemetery chapel, the children of the School of Industry 
surrounded the earthly remains of their treasurer, and 
shewed by their youthful sorrow, that they felt they 
had lost a friend. The Rev. S. A. Davies, of Enfield, 
Mrs. Sherman's former pastor, commenced the solemn 
service by reading part of the fifteenth chapter of the 
first of Corinthians, and the ninetieth Psalm, and 
lafter the congregation had sung the suitable hymn of 
Dr. Watts, beginning " Why do we mourn departing 
friends," he sought by prayer the benediction of heaven 
on the weeping assembly. The Rev. George Clayton, 
in compliance with the wish of the deceased, then deli- 
vered a most solemn and appropriate oration, applying 
the event by sanctified eloquence to the consciences of 
all present, and, it is believed produced impressions time 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 447 

will never efiace. When the body was conveyed from 
the chapel to the tomb, the elders of the church bore the 
pall, and as the procession slowly advanced, the gentle- 
men of the choir, the children of the school, and the 
congregation sung the hymn of Dr. Watts beginning, 

** Unveil thy bosom, faithfdl tomb, 
Take this new treasure to thy trust,'' &c. 

Arrived at the place of sepulture, the funeral service of 
the Church of England was read by the Rev. J. S. 
Eastmead, and the benediction pronounced by the Rev. 
Oeorge Clayton. The whole assembly closed the solemn 
service by attempting to sing — ^which was accomplished 
with difficulty — ^the two following verses : — 

** Farewell, dear saint, a short adieu ! 
Thy soul is gone beyond the spheres ; 
Our eyes thy radiant path pursue, 
While rapture glistens in our tears. 

Farewell, blest saint, a short farewell, 
Till soon we meet again above, 
In the bright world where pleasures dwell, 
And trees of life bear fruits of love.*' 

"The whole scene,*" remarks a friend, "was one of 
unusual interest. Devout men and women followed our 
departed friend to her burial, and made great, but sin- 
cere lamentation over her. " The widows stood by 
weeping,'" and the young people of the classes testified, 
by their presence and tears, what had been done for 
them "while she jras with them.'" The language of 
every heart that witnessed these solemnities appeared to 
be, " Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from 



448 MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

henceforth : Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest 
from their labours ; and their works do follow them/' 

About a week before the sainted spirit entered into 
rest, when familiarly anticipating the eyent, and maJdn^ 
her own arrangements to send dying tokens of loye to 
her friends, her husband ventured to ask what minister 
she would prefer, to improve her decease to the congre- 
gation. " I would rather," she replied, " it should 
pass with only ordinary observation, but as I suppose 
the congr^tion will expect, from the situation I occu- 
pied, some special attempt to benefit others — ^if Mr. 
James could preach in the morning, to the church, and 
Mr. Parsons in the evening, to the young and to my 
classes, my death might yield some fruit ; the hope of 
usefulness alone induces me to consent to any arrange- 
ment of the kind.^' Her wish was communicated to 
these honoured servants of Christ, and on the Lord's- 
day. May 28th, they most kindly carried out her desires 
— ^the Rev. J. A. James preached to the members of 
the church in the morning, fix)m Hebrews vi. 12, ^' That 
ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through 
fEuth and patience inherit the promises \" a sermon 
characterized by fervent piety and powerful application 
of the principles of the gospel, which the deceased 
adorned, to her surviving fellow-believers. The hearts 
of the hearers felt its spiritual power, and were melted 
by its tender and faithful appeals. In the evening, the 
Kev. James Parsons preached to the young from Job 
xiv. 2, ''He cometh forth like a flower, and is cut 
down.'' The sermon was full of earnest persuasion. 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 449 

and being delivered under a full sense of the responsi- 
bility of the hour, produced a remarkable impression, the 
saving fruits of which have already appeared. On the 
same occasion he asked what message he should carry 
to the people when she was taken from them ; her 
brief answer was^ " Tell them to love Christ and one 
another — ^to labour for souls and exhibit holiness — 
then they must be happy." 

Thus terminated the career of one whom God had 
graciously endowed with "largeness of heart^ for his 
service on earth — whose removal in the prime of life has 
excited the sober luxury of sanctified grief — ^and whose 
eminent piety shed a lustre on her character, and left a 
beautiful example of female devotedness for others to 
imitate. 

The following description of the funeral scene, and 
the right method of improving it, was written by her 
valued friend, Joseph Payne, Esq. — 



MRa SHERMAN'S FUNERAL. 

BT ONB WHO ATTUrDED IT. 

The son look'd glorious from the heayens— the sky 

Was bright, serene and cloudless ; and the day 

Seem'd fitter for a bridal, than the gloom 

Of funeral arrangements, when the good, 

The gentle, the lamented, the admir'd, 

Was " carried to her burial,"*— Crowds were there ; 

• Acts viii. 2. 



450 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK, 

Eager to testify the love and grief 

That fill'd their friendly bosoms ;— rich and poor. 

The charioted in splendour, and the lame 

Supported by a crutch, were mingled then 

In anxious emulation ;— old and young 

Vied with each other ; shops were partly closed ; 

And busy tradesmen silent stood, and gaz'd. 

On as the funeral procession went, 

Group after group it passed of friendly forms. 

All hastening to the body^s resting-place. 

The Sabbath scholar— and the teacher too — 

The mother with her infant in her arms — 

Her little one beside her (round whose waist 

Was tied a faded sash, which once was black) 

Trudged on, regardless of the scorching heat, 

And of the choking dust :— their hearts were full ; 

And so their bodies were not delicate ! 

And, as it farther went, the numbers grew ; 

And sighs were heard, and eyes with tears were wet ; 

And those who in the sombre coaches rode. 

As they look'd forth upon the stirring scene. 

Said to themselves, and to each other said, — 

" Truly, * the memory of the just is blessed !* "• 

And when at length they reached the destin'd spot. 

And in the small and crowded chapel stood. 

The Word was read, the voice of prayer was heard. 

The hymn of praise arose, and the address. 

Solemn, instructive, eloquent, sincere, 

Gush'd forth from feeling and from friendly lips. — 

There sat the widower, binding to his heart 

The consolations, " neither few nor small," 

He oft had preached to others : — there, the child 

Of many hopeful feelings, by the hand 

Of sisterly affection kindly held. 

There too, the father looked, in deep dismay, 

* Proverbs x. 7. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 451 

On the last broken link of love's sweet chain, 

Which bound him to the earth ; yet sorrowing not 

As one who has no hope ! — ^A while they paused, 

Then slowly sought the tomb, and to its walls 

Resigned their sacred trust ; and softly sang, 

'* Farewell dear saint 1" — and then the mourner's left. 

Took off their sable robes, and homeward tum'd, 

To ** go about the streets"*— as heretofore ! 

But one look'd back, and in his fancy twin'd 

A wreath for the departed ; tun'd his harp, 

And thus expressed the feelings of his heart : — 



Mourn for tks lioingf mourn ; 

But weep not for the dead ; 
They need your tears from whom is torn 

Their pattern, and their head. 

But she, the suffering saint. 

To whom release is given. 
No tongue can tell, no fancy paint. 

Her joy and peace in heaven I 

Mourn for the Ivring, mourn ; 

For they have lost a friend, 
Whose spirit is by angels borne 

Where unions never end. 

The young she lov'd to teach, 
For whom her heart was mov^d ; 

Her bright example aim*d to reach. 
And while they failed, improved I 

When desolate and sad, 
The wretched sought her care ; 

A kind word and a smile she had 
£'en for the meanest there. 

* Bcclesiafites zii. (f. 



452 MEMOIB OF MB& SHSSMAIT. 

And by her goodness mov'dy 

Thej loudly spoke her worth; 
Comparing her to Him who proved 

The sinner's friend on earth.* 

** Like Jesus Christ" — what joy. 

To hear such praise bestow'd 
By those for whom, in love's employ. 

She sought each sad abode ! 

Long to the conch confin'd 

Of sickness and decay, 
Her form grew weaker, but the mind 

Was strengthened, day by day. 

And now and then, it seemVL 

As if her glance had gain*d. 
Some glimpse of glory where it beam'd. 

Which on her soul remain'd. 

And then such words she spoke 

Of comfort and delight, 
That clouds of gloom dispers'd and broke ; 

And aU around was bright. 

Pray for the liting, pray ; 

Besiege the throne of Gk>d, 
That all may seek the upward way, 

Her careful footsteps trod. 

Let faith and hope to birth, 

In every heart arise ; . 
That those who mourn her loss on earth 

May join her in the skies ! 

J. P. 

* A lady, one Friday mArning, heard some poor women, speaking of 
Mrs. Sherman. One of tbem said — '* There she is, the dear creature — 
she is like Jesus Christ.'* ** What do you mean,** said another, ** I 
know she is very good ; but why is she like Jesus Christ P" " Because,** 
replied the first, ** she never despises any one, and has always a smile 
and a kind word for the poor.** 



CHAPTER XIV. 

SUMMABY AND APPLICATION OF HEB CHARACTER. 

The foregoing pages have furnished materials for 
the reader to form his own opinion of the character 
of the deceased, and they might, without injury to her 
mem'ory, be left to work their own impressions : yet, as 
she lived to be useful, the writer will be pardoned if 
he aim to press those graces, which were so eminently 
conspicuous in her, as forming a bright pattern of female 
excellence. The lives of many individuals are pub- 
lished, whose intellectual greatness checks every hope 
of attaining to their exalted stature ; the sublimity of 
their views on divine subjects — ^the novel and important 
light in which they place ancient doctrines, so as to 
commend them to the judgment of unbelievers— the 
daring which they exhibit in carrying out new schemes 
for the furtherance of truth and righteousness in the 
world — and the hold which their writings and influence 
gain on the population, fit them to be leaders. But 
while multitudes read the lives of such moral heroes, the 
majority, from conscious inferiority, have no intention to 
imitate their exploits. Some attempt to follow in the 
same track; but as it soon becomes evident to themselves 
and others, that they have not the requisite mental re- 
sources, very few attain a similar elevation ; the greater 



454 MBMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

number fidl ere they have reached a less exalted position, 
and demonstrate they were never designed to occupy it. 
But the life of Mrs. Sherman presents no proo& of 
mighty intellect : her conduct, letters, and journals, 
only show the Christian lady carrying out her principles 
into practical operation, and therefore leave footsteps in 
the common walk of Hfe, in which any one may safely 
tread. 

Nature had done much for her in her lovely person 
and attractive manners, but grace much more. Her 
scriptural knowledge, and ability to communicate it, 
either orally or by letter, were not natural, but acquired. 
Her position demanded exertion to obtain information, 
and she gave it ; she felt unequal to her solemn duties, 
and she prepared accordingly: thus, by the ordinary 
operation of industry in the study of the Scriptures, and 
in prayerful preparation for spiritual engagements, she 
acquired acceptableness and usefolness to which few 
have attained. It will be no disparagement to her, to 
put on record, that, previous to her marriage, no member 
of her family believed her to possess the qualifications 
which she afterwards exhibited. Her sister, had she 
been spared, bade fair, by her mental endowments and 
literary acquirements, to have taken an influential posi- 
tion in the world, but the amiable, loving, merry Martha, 
was thought capable only of gracing a drawing-room, 
binding firiends to her by affection, and benefiting the 
poor by generosity — such duties as those, in which she 
so peculiarly excelled, were among the last for which she 
was supposed to be fitted. 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHI^BMAIT. 455 

Now though few, comparatively, are placed in her 
position, yet the world and the church are in such cir- 
cumstances, that it hehoves every female to enquire 
how she can best use her powers, for the honour of 
Christ and the salvation of her sex. Many satisfy them- 
selves by pleading that they have no talent for teaching, 
for the visitation of the poor, or for collecting on behalf 
of religious and charitable objects ; yet they show no 
deficiency of talent on any other subject, and it is 
rational to suppose, if ordinary means were employed to 
qualify them, they would be capable of these services as 
well as others. 

The ancient excuse, I am married, and cannot come 
to the help of the Lord against the mighty, is applicable 
to both sexes. Though chiefly used by males, it is 
lamentable to see many females who, before marriage, 
were the ornament and hope of the community to which 
they belonged, become inactive and indifferent afterwards ; 
as if their new relation exempted them from exertion on 
behalf of those objects in which they formerly took such 
deep interest. Far be it from the writer to manifest a 
want of sympathy in the increasing cares of a mother 
with a rising family, or to intimate that domestic duties 
are to be neglected for the sake of public services — ^no, 
attention to home is a part of her religion, and must be 
considered her first and highest claim, which, if acknow- 
ledged and improved, her husband shall praise her, and 
her children rise up and call her blessed : but a mother 
whose zeal for God is according to knowledge, will, by a 
little early rising, by a wise regulation of the duties of 



456 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

the day, and by a sense of her responsibility to her 
Sayiour, make such arrangements as will secure a por- 
tion, if a smaller portion, of her time for assiating the 
operations of the church in the world. 

Firmness and perseverance were strong peculiairities 
of her mind, and gave stability and decision to her reli- 
gions character. Her opinions were not hastily formed; 
it often required much reading and argument to con- 
vince her ; but when once convinced of the truth of a 
theory, or of the duty of undertaking any work for (3od, 
however laborious and difficult, she was immovable. 
This feature of her disposition remarkably contrasted 
with her naturally amiable temper, which, on inferior 
matters, in which conscience was not affected, readily 
yielded at any sacrifice of feeling to the opinions, and 
even to the selfishness of others, while she would not 
give up a point in argument to the dearest friend, if 
unconvinced. Hence fickleness, inconstancy, and love 
of change were almost unknown to her. Hence her per- 
severance with any thing she undertook — it was not 
commenced till she felt its importance, nor was it aban- 
doned for unforeseen difficulties. Hence her punctuality 
to the time appointed for committee, class, or other 
meetings, and the constant inculcation of this grace on 
others. And how important is this feature in any who 
attempt to do good. '^ Unstable as water, thou shalt 
not excel," may be applied to some Christian females, 
as well as to Reuben. They readily engage in every new 
effort, but after attending a few meetings of committee, 
the zeal cools, and they absent themselves ; a new theory 



MEMOIR OF MBS. SHERMAN. 457 

has them for advocates, but only long enough to abandon 
it for another more novel — ^thus neither the church nor 
the world are benefited. It is better to pursue a system 
of usefulness in which some known defects exist, but 
which is understood, and by which some good is done ; 
than to be perpetually changing times, instruments, and 
measures, with the uncertainty of their eflfective opera- 
tion. 

Few have exhibited a more entire exemption from 
selfishness. " If all the world were like her,'^ said a 
fiiend who had known her from infancy, '^ malice and 
uncharitableness would become obsolete words. If I 
were to describe her, I should do it negatively, by saying 
that she had none of the disagreeables of so many other 
persons.^' Her politeness would have made her cour- 
teous without grace ; but that regulated and refined it, 
so that it was the result of principle obtained from the 
Cross, and she '* thus judged, that if One died for all, 
then were all dead : and that He died for all, that they 
which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, 
but to Him that died for them and rose again."' This 
unselfish feeling ran through the whole of her conduct : 
it was not reserved for state occasions, when its exhibi- 
tion would have elicited applause, but was spontaneous 
and natural. The comfort and ease of all within her 
house were preferred to her own, and a b^gar would be 
as readily served as a prince. Often has she called forth 
the remonstrances of friends, while standing to hear the 
tale of woe from a poor person in the hall, whose dirty 
condition forbade introduction into a room, when her 

x 



458 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 

weakness rendered it dangerous for her to be in such a 
situation. Her sleep, her meals, her dress, her personal 
comforts, were relinquished with satisfaction, if any one, 
especially of God's children, required such help as they 
would afford. And this is the test by which we axe to 
try our discipleship, '* If any man will be my disciple, 
let him deny himself ; let him take up his cross daily 
and follow me." By some it would be considered that 
the subject of this Memoir presented this feeling in 
excess, but how short — ^how far short did she fall of the 
example of Jesus Christ, " who was rich, yet for our 
sakes beciame poor, that wa through his poverty might 
be made rich." Let Christian females study this cha- 
racteristic of our Divine Lord, and be assured that it is 
one of the principal preparations for usefulness. 

No grace shone more conspicuously in her than 
humility. Every thing she undertook was begun with 
trembling and prosecuted with fear ; she had no confi- 
dence in herself, nor any leaning to her own under- 
standing ; the most childlike spirit of dependence on 
her Heavenly Father characterized her entire course of 
life. When a letter was read to her, a few weeks before 
her death, containing an allusion to the bright example 
she had set, she remarked '^ I cannot imderstand what 
they mean. They have drawn a picture in their imagi- 
nation of what they think I ought to be as a minister's 
wife, and then have persuaded themselves that I re- 
semble it, because they do not know me." Such language 
in the lips of some, would be a hint for flattery, but 
in her, the transparent sincerity with which it was 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHEBMAK. 459 

uttered, was visible to all, and her whole conduct de- 
monstrated, that she believed the lowest place suited 
her best. On an occasion when a similar remark was 
made by a friend, 'she replied — " Alas ! that any one 
should think my imperfect walk, every step of which 
needs cleansing in my Saviour's blood, suitable for imi- 
tation. I can only answer in the sentiments of Cowper. 

** Since the dear hour, that brought me to thy foot, 
And cut np all mj follies by the root, 
I never tmsted in an arm but thine, 
Nor hoped bat in thy righteousness divine ; 
My prayers and alms, imperfect and defil'd, 
Were but the feeble eflfbrts of a child ; 
Howe*er performed, it was their brightest part 
That they proceeded from a grateful heart : 
Cleans*d in thine own all purifying blood, 
Forgive their evil, and accept their good ; 
I cast them at thy feet— my only plea 
Is what it was, dependence upon thee ; 
While struggling in the vale of tears below 
That never fail'd, nor shall it fail me now.*' 

The apostle lays emphasis on this grace as a special 
ornament of the female character — " Whose adorning, 
let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, 
and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel, but 
let it be the hidden man of the heart, -in that which is 
not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet 
spirit which is in the sight of God of great price.'' She 
that would do good must be content to stoop to the 
humble and needy, must condescend to their position, 
and sacrifice feeling and habits to get at their preju- 



460 MBMOIB OF MBS. SHEKMAN. 

dices, and convey tmth to their minds. how con- 
descending was Jesns Christ — how readily he talked to 
a leper, listened to the domestic trials of parents, or 
took the children of the poor in liis arms. Let us 
imitate him : for a proud heart, like a high momitam, 
is sure to be an nnfroitfol place. 

^' Grace be with all them who love our Lord Jesos 
Christ in sincerity,^' she adopted as her motto, and ex- 
hibited in her conduct. Her house, her table, her 
purse, were open to all who bore the likeness of her 
Saviour. She dared not refuse communion irith any 
whom the Master had received, on account of denomi- 
national peculiarities. Of all such, the could say — 

^< Whatever their countiy or their name 
With them when privileged to meety 
Kindred and feUowship I claim, 

And conyerse hold conmiunion sweet; 
For stiU my heart wiU tmly move, 
Towards all who love the Lord I love. 

Never can the writer forget her joy, when a native 
Chinese convert, with Dr. Medhurst, from China, Tzatzoe, 
an African chief, and Stoffels, a converted Hottentot, Dr. 
Cheever, and Mr. Eirk, from America, and others from 
the continent of Europe, dined together at the Parsonage. 
She observed to Dr. Medhurst, " This party not only 
prefigures the Millennium, but is an epitome of it Here 
are native representatives from the four quarters of the 
globe, all converted to Christ, and supporting his king- 
dom in their several countries. Heaven itself will only 
be an enlargement of such a^oup.^' And they who 



MEHOIB OF MRS. SHEBMAN 461 

would be useful must cultivate this spirit. Denomi- 
nationalism has ruled too long. Beading only the books 
written by one sect, or meeting only the friends who 
think exactly with us, enfeebles the mind and cramps 
its energies. There are men of God in every division of 
the Christian church, at whose feet it would become any 
of us to sit, and we lose that enlargement of heart, that 
love of the Spirit, which embraces '^ the whole family in 
heaven and earth,'" if we do not cultivate acquaintance 
with all, and extract what is good from their several 
modes of worship, their ChristiaQ intercourse, and their 
exertions for the conversion of the world, and insert 
them in our stereotyped forms and habits. 

But, after all, the great secret of her power with 
her classes and the church, lay in her fervent piety, a 
faith that embraced, and fed upon the living truths of 
the gospel, and intimate communion with God, which 
no engagements were suffered to curtail. Details have 
been furnished, which sufficiently prove this fact, and 
her family are witnesses how constantly her spirit seemed 
filled with the fulness of God, and what sacrifices of 
bodily ease she made for the continuance of that heavenly 
fellowship. This gave her influence — unconscious influ- 
ence. Though her exertions were great, she accomplished 
more by what she was, than by what she did. Her 
spiritual character gave an element of silent power to 
her efforts, which was the chief cause of their efficacy. 
An influence, unconsciously to herself, was always ope- 
rating on others with whom she came in contact. They 
felt, they saw, they heard that influence, and fell under 

X 2 



462 HEMOni OF MBS. SHEBMAlf. 

ity bat probably were, equally with herself, xmconscioiis 
of its exenoBe, and quite unable to describe its charact^. 
As the light, which giyes no shock, and utters no roar, 
flolently but effectually chases away the darkness, and 
restores the wodd to beauty and cheerfulness, stealing 
on us gradually and almost insensibly, so the Christian, 
who shines the brighter firom sitting in heavenly places, 
where he may more fully catch the beams, and reflect 
the light of the Sun of Bighteousness, will disperse the 
darknesB of prejudice, oonmiand the homage of respect^ 
and excite the desire for imitation in those by whom he 
is surrounded. 

The testimony of one to the practical power of this 
sUent influence^ may illustrate and confirm these remarks. 
" I felt," said a young lady, " the importance of religion, 
before I entered Mrs. Sherman's class ; but it was not 
till I saw the happiness she difiused around her, that I 
was led to ask myself the question, ^ Why cannot I be 
as amiable in my £Eanily, as Mrs. Sherman, and make 
others as happy as she does?' and to form the reso- 
lution — *I will try' — and if I have at all succeeded^ 
the effort and the success are entirely owing to her 
lovely example." All therefore who would be blessings 
must settie it in their hearts, that they must first 
seek to be blessed. Station, education, talent, are 
allowed to have certain influence, but not so great 
as is generally supposed. Had our Saviour thought 
much of them. He would have selected a higher class 
than fishermen to proclaim his gospel, and lay the foun- 
dations of his kingdom. " Knowledge is power," has 



MEMOIB OF MBS. SHERMAN. 463 

become a household phrase, but it is feebleness itself, 
compared with piety. " If God be for us, who can be 
against us?" Therefore, the renoyation of the most 
degraded of our species, and the sanctification of the 
unholiest, which the scientific have failed to accomplish, 
have been eflFected by the humble Christian. Oh, ye 
females, who are the ornaments of our churches, and 
the most powerful helpers in establishing the kingdom 
of Christ, suffer the word of exhortation. Ton cannot 
speak like men — nor rule like him '^ who was first 
formed f ' but you have influence of your own, which 
all acknowledge — ^the more mighty, because the more 
gentle — ^the more efficacious, because the less visible. 
The most potent agents in nature are the most simple 
and noiseless — ^the least seen and the most mysterious — 
yet they are in constant and mighty operation. And if 
by walking in the light as He is in the light, you have 
fellowship one with another and can declare, '' The Lord 
is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear V — ^if 
£rom continued application to the fountain opened yon 
can with confidence avow, " the blood of Jesus Christ 
his Son, deanseth us from all sin,"" — ^if from repeated 
experience of His gracious assistance, you can invite 
troubled minds to your fiiend, saying, '^ Behold, God is 
my helper ;" — ^if from daily meditation on the " mystery 
of godliness,'' you become rooted and built up in Christ, 
and established in the faith of the gospel and can affirm 
''I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded 
that He is able to keep that which I have committed to 
Him/' — if under conscious weakness and infirmity as 



464 MEMOIR OF MBS. SHEBMAN. 

Asa, you know not what to do, but the eye of your feith 
is cast up to the mediatorial throne, and your heart and 
lips avow," I will go in the strength of the Lord God, 
I will make mention of his righteousness even of his 
only" — then like Deborah, you will accompany the 
Lord^s servants, and share their honour in fighting 
his battles — like Hannah, you wiU exalt the Lord's 
" anointed" — ^like the Shunamite, you will plead for 
the society of the prophet in your house, and see his 
prayers answered in your children — ^like Mary you will 
rejoice in God your Saviour — like Elizabeth, you will 
walk in all the ordinances and commandments of the 
Lord blameless — ^like Susannah, the wife of Herod's 
steward, you will minister to Christ of your substance- 
like Martha, you will receive Him into your house, and 
who can tell ? have your brother raised to spiritual life, 
and sit at the table with Him — like Phoebe, you will 
become the servant of the Church, and like Tryphena 
and Tryphosa, labour much in the Lord. *' Favour is 
deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman that feareth 
the Lord, she shall be praised." 



BiOHARD Babrett, Printer, 18, Mark Lane, London. 



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C, GHpiris List of Books, 5, Bishopsgate Street, 



Works by fhe Bev. James Sherman. 



Series of Expositions on separate Books of Scrip- 
ture, by the most celebrated Diyines, chiefly of the 17l^ Oentury, 
revised and corrected by the Rev. J. Sherman. 

Adams on the 2nd Epistle of Peter, a.d. 1633. 25s. 

Burroughs on Hosea, with Supplements by Bey. Thomas Hall and 
Bishop Reynolds, ad. 1650. 258. 

Daill^ on the Philippians and Colossians, one vol., A.». 1639. 

12s. dd. 
Oreenhill on Ezekiel, a.d. 1650. 258. 

Jenkyn on Jude, and Manton on James, in one vol., 1652-8. 
17s. 6d. 



A Plea for ihe Lord's Day. Wth Edition. 

Is., cloth. 

" It is perspicuously written, contains sound sentiments, and is 
much adapted for usefulness." — Baptvst Magazine. 

" From the able and affectionate manner in which it is written, it 
is fitted to be extensively useful." — Evangdical Magazine. 

** The subject is placed in a rational scriptural and commanding 
light."— /mpcrioi Magazine, 

The Christian's Death and Heaven, and his 

desire for both, 6th Edition. Price Is., cloth. 

. A Brief Memoir of Martha Nutt. Exempli- 

fying the Advantages of Spiritual Diligence. 5th Edition. Price 
6d. 

A Scripture Calendar, for reading the Old Tes- 

lament okos and the New Testament and Psalms tir?iob during the 
year. 24th Edition. Price 6d. 

This beautiful Calendar is tastefully printed in various colours. 



Infidelity Contrasted mth Christianity. 2nd 

Edition. Price 3s., cloth. 



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C Giipin's List o/BockSy 5, Buhopsgate Street, 
Sermons to Yov4h. Price 6(i. ecbchy or in one 

Tol. cloth, 5i. 

1. The Guide of Youth. 

2. The Advantages of Abstinence from Intoxicating Liqaor. 
8. The Qualifications and Objects of Sabbath School Teachers. 

4. The Angel's Song. 

5. The Danger and Safety of Toath. 

6. Touth welcomed by the Church. 
7 Contagions Inflaence of Wicked Companions. 

8. The Character of Martha. 

9. Mary's Choice. 

10. The Secret Disciple. A Sermon, occanoned by the Deoease of 
Miss SsLiiTA Shbbman. 



Series on Domestic Dvities. 

1. The Religious Education of Children. 

The Christian Minister's Reward ; a Farewell 

Sermon preached at Castle Street Chapel, Beading, August 28th 
1836. 5th Edition. Price 6d. 



The Christian Minister Clothed in the Strength 

and m^hteousnett of God ; and Chrixt ike Foundation of Aif Chwrek. 
Two Sermons preached at Surrey Chapel, September 4th, 1886, on 
entering upon the Pastoral Duties in connexion with that Church 
and Congregation. 8rd Edition. Price 6d. 

Obedience to Parents, the Child's Paih to Honour 

and' happineu. A Sermon to Children educated at Boarding Schoola. 
Price 6d. 



Scripture Light the True Light, and Scriptural 
Knotoledge the B&ft Knowledge. Two Sermons, preached at Castle 
Street, Reading, and Surrey Chapel, London, October the 4th and 
11th, 1835, to commemorate the Third Centenary of the Printing of 
the Knglish Bible. 8rd Edition. Price Is. 

The Privilege of Sanctified Poverty. A Ftmeral 

Sermon for Thoiillas Cranfield. Price 6d. 



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CHABLES GILPDr'S 
LIST OF NEW WOBKS, 

6, BISHOPSQATB STaBBT WITHOUT, 



MRS. SHERMAN. 

A Striking Portrait of thig difltingaiBlied Chriftian Ladj, beanti- 
folly engiayed by Fiukoib Hall. 

«. d. 

Proo£i on India Paper - - -.50 

Ditto Plain Paper - - - 2 6 

Prints 10 

Sand and Canvas : a Narrative of Adventv/res 

in Egypt, witb a Sojourn among tlie ArtiBts in Home, && With 
lUastrationB. By Saxttil Bbtav. 8yo., doth, price 128. 

The Demerara Martyr. — Memoirs of the Rev. 

John SmUhf Hiflsionary to Demeraia ; by Edwin Anqbl Wall- 
BBIDM. With a Preftice by the Rey. W. G. Ba&bbtt. 8yo., cloth, 
price 7f. 

*^ There will be one day a resorrection of names and zepatations, 
as certainly as of bodies."— JoBir Miltov. 

" Portraits in Miniature ;" or Sketches of cha- 

raOer in mtm. By H. J. Fbt, Author of the Hymns of the 
Reformation, &c Demy 8yo , doth lettered, price lOs. 6d. 

This little yolume holds many a name dear to the best interests 
of sodety, like those of Elizabeth Fry, J. J. Gnmey, W. Wilberforce, 
Hannah More, Bishop Heber, &c ; and it is thought that such a 
transcript of those who haye as it were trodden the paths of life by 
our side^ may senre to quicken amongst us the fragrance of their 
Christian graces, and Uke liying Epistles written on our hearts^ 
speak to our spirits the language " Come up hither.** 

The Autobiography of a Working Man, by *^One 

Vfho hoi WhuUed at the Plough.** This work contains the " Barrack 
Life of a Dragoon f what the author did to saye Britain torn Beyo- 
lutioD ; his Court Martial and Punishment at Birmingham ; the Con- 
spiracy of the Secret Committee of the Trade Unions in London to 
** Assassinate the Cabinet Ministers, and Capture the Palace, Boyal 
Family, and Bank of England f how phumed and how preyented. 
** The French Beyolution of 1848 ;" and the seyeral attempts at 
British Beyolutions during the last fourteen years examined, with 
curious particulars of the English physical fozdsts. Crown 8yo., 
doth, price 7s. 

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(7. OUpin^s lAstofBookSf 5, Bishopsgate Street, 
The Campaner Thai : or, Discourses on the 

ImmorkdUy of the SotU. Foolscap 8yo., price 2a, 6d. By Jxav 
Paul Fb. Biohtbb. Translated from the Gknoan by Juuibttk 
Baukb. 

** ~— — Report, we regret to say, is all tliat we know of the 
* CSampaner Thai,' one of Kichter^s beloved topics, or rather the life 
of his whole philosophy, glimpses of which look forth on ns from 
almost every one of his writings. He died while engaged, under 
recent and almost total blindness, in enlarging and remodelling this 
'Campaner Thai* The unfinished manuscript was borne upon his 
coffin to the burial vault ; and Klopstock*s hymn, ' Auferstehen wirst 
du 1' ' Thou shalt arise my soul,* can seldom have been snug with 
more appropriate application than over the grave of Jean Paul."— 
From Carlt/le^s MiBcellanies. 

The Peasantry of England; an Appeal on 

behalf of ihe Worlnng CUumb; in which the causes which have led 
to their present impoverished and degraded condition, and the means 
by which it may best be permanenUy improved, are clearly pointed 
out. By GJ-. M. PflBBY. 12mo, cloth, price 4s. 

The History and ATiatomy of the Navigation 

Lam. By John Eioabdo, Esq., M.P. 8vo., cloth, price 7s. 6d. 

*' A most masterly work, — a perfect text-book of iiLformation and 
aigument" — Chronide. 

William Allen : his Life and Correspondence. 

8 vols, 8vo, price 248. 

DymomTs Essays, on the Principles of Morality, 

and on the Private and PolUioal Rights and Obligations of Manr 
kind. Eoyal 8vo., paper cover, 3s. 6d. Neat embossed cloth, 48. 6d. 
The high standard of morality to which these Essays aim at direct- 
ing the attention of mankind, justly entitle them to the extensive 
circulation which they have obtained in three previous editions ; and 
the present cheap and popular form in which they now appear, having 
reached a sale of nearly Seven Thousand in twelve months, is an 
unequivocal proof of public approbation. 

Three Lectures on the Moral Elevation of the 

People. By Thomas Beoos. Price Is. 

** The working classes ought to read them, that they may learn 
how much power resides in themselves ; the middle classes should 
read them, and learn that wealth confers increased responsibility on 
its possessor ; and even our nobles should read them, that they may 
learn that the downfall o{ false, and the reign of true nobility are alike 
at hand." — Nottingham Meview* 

" The Lectures are full of large and comprehensive views of man, 
and the writer aims in every respect to promote his moral elevation.'* 
— Universe. 

Revelations of Cholera ; or its Causes and Cu/re. 

By Samuel Diokson, H.D., Author of << Fallacies of the Faculty.'* 
12mo., Is. 6d. 

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G, Gilpin^ s List of Books, 6, Biskopsgate Street, 

Sparks from the Anvil. By Elihu Burritt 

This is the ordy complete edition of the abore work. It is pub- 
lished under the immediate supemsion of the talented Author, and 
is the only Edition in the sale of ^hich he has any pecuniary interest. 
12mo. sewed, price Is. 

" These are Sparks of singular brilliancy." — Britiih Friend. 

^ They deserve to be stereotyped, and to form part of the standard 
literature of the age."^-KentiA Independent, 

A Voice from the Forge. By Elihu Burritt, 

with a portrait. Being a Sequel to '* Sparks from the Anvil.*' 12mo. 
sewed, price Is. 

** In every line coined firom the reflecting mind of the Blacksmith 
of Massachusetts, there is a high philosophy and a philanthropy 
genuine and pure.^ ** His sympathies are universal, his aspirations 
are for the happiness of all, and his writings are nervous, terse, and 
vigorous." — London Telegraph. 

A Kiss for a Blow. (Twentieth thousand.) A 

Collection of Stories for Children, showing them how to prevent 
quarrelling. By H. C. Wright. In I8mo., qloth, price Is. 

** Of this little book it is impossible to speaJc too highly — it is 
the reflex of the spirit of childhood, full of tenderness, pity, and love : 
quick to resent, and equally quick to forgive. We wish that all 
children could imbibe its spirit, then indeed would the world be 
happier and better. *'—Mary Howitt. 

** This volume, of which it were to be wished that every family in 
the country had a copy, has been reprinted in London by Charles 
Gilpin ; it is an invaluable little book." — Chambers's Tracts. 

Cards of Character : a Biographical Oame* In 

a neat case, price 5s. 

** This Gfame, which is prepared by a young Friend, contains much 
amusement and instruction. It consists of brief sketches of the lives 
and characters of about seventy of the principal persons of the past 
age, and questions corresponding in number with the Cards. The 
game is well arranged and very simple.'* 

Fifty Days on Board a Slave Vessel. By the 

Rev. Fascoe Orenfbll, M.A., Chaplain of H.M.S. Cleopatra. 
Demy 12mo., price Is. 6d. 

'* We hope this little book will have a wide circulation. We can 
conceive nothing so likely to do good to the righteous cause it is in- 
tended to promote." — Examiner. 

'* Mr. Hill is a pleasant, unaffected, and elegant writer, with a 
fund of good sense, and his brief and popular work is well adapted 
for general circulation.'* — Spectator. 

^* Will, if extensively read and pondered in a spirit of common, not 
to say Christian humanity, do more good in the way of practical results, 
towards the suppression of the Slave Trade, than fifty meetings at 
Exeter Hall." — JVeir Monthly Magazine. 

" We will not flinch from saying, that this small pamphlet is by 
hi the wisest, the clearest and the best, which it has yet fiedlen to 
our lot to read upon the subject."— JBwcA;* Chronicle, 



O, Oilpin's List of Books, 5,Bishopsgate Street, 



The Wells of Scripture, Illustrated in Verse, 

By the Author of the *< Pastor's Legacy."* Price 28. 




THB WELLS OF SCBIPTU&S. 

Sweet are the wells of Scripture, 

Their sound, methinks, I hear, 
Whilst softly thus their murmurings 

Falls on my listening ear. 

Pleasant and pure those waters, 

And firesh the crystal stream, 
Where Israel's happy daughters 

Lived out life's fleeting dream. 

Land of the Lord's own hlessing ! 

Land of his &yourite smile ! 
Where grief and pain distressing. 

His love could irell beguile. 

%♦ A very appropriate jffesent for youth. 

The Rhyming Oame; a Historiette. ISmo. 

sewed, price 6d. 

This little book is designed as a winter evening recreation for 
young persons. Its object is, that of calling up their ideas into ready 
exercise, and habituating the mind to a prompt and accurate descrip- 
tion of objects, as well as the more subtle delineation of thoughts and 
feelings: and it has particularly in view the monition thst, even 
in their recreations, they may remember, ** I'utile, " as well as 
"I'agreeable." 

Hymns of the Reformation. By Luther and 

others, from the Gkrman ; to which is added his Life, from the 
original Latin of Melancthon, by the author of the "Pastor^t 
Legacy." 18mo., neatly bound in silk, Ss. 6d. 



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LONDON: 
CHARLES OILPIN, 6, Bishopsgate Street, Without'. 



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