The southern Christian ; exemplified in the memoirs of Anthony Jefferson Pearson, who died August 31st, l834 in Spartanburgh, South Carolina

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SOUTOERN CHRISTIAN.

THE

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN

EXEMPLIFIED

IN THE MEMOIRS OF
ANTHONY JEFFERSON PEARSON,

Who died August 3l6t, 1834, in Spartanburgh, South Carolina.

BY J. BOGGS, A. M.

His grace, which was bestowed on me, was not in ■fiXw.—Paul,

NEW YORK:
PUBLISHED BY EZRA COLLIER,

SUCCESSOR TO JOHN P. HAVEN,
American Tract Society House, 148 Nagsau street.

1835.

BNTBRED ACCORDING TO THE ACT OF CONGRRSS, IN THE YEAR 1835,

BY

EZRA COLLIER,

IN THE clerk's OPFICE OF THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE UNITED
STATES, FOR THE SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK.

INTRODUCTION.

Why is this volume published ? — To demon-
strate that Religion can flourish in the South ; —
to refute, practically, the ill-founded assertion,
that our climate is not adapted to the growth of
piety. Instead of arguments, we give you
facts. Do you doubt whether godliness, — en-
lightened and fervent, — deep and permanent, —
can be found in the South? Carefully inspect
the character of A. J. Pearson ; and your doubts
will vanish.

Do you wish to know what means are most
likely to promote the growth of grace in the
South ? Attentively view the course pursued
by our Southern Christian. Follow him to his
devotional retreats. See his Bible spread be-
fore him, — his mind and his heart open to self-
inspection, — his very soul absorbed in heavenly

contemplation. Go with him, when he mingles

1*

VI INTRODUCTION.

with society, — travel with him, on his journies,
— attend him to the Sabbath School, — visit, with
him, the house of God. Hence will you learn,
how it was that he held on his way, and grew
stronger and stronger.

To the question, Why is this little volume
published ? we may reply, in A. J. Pearson
was found genuine godliness ; so intense and
constant was his piety, that it soared far above
the reach of suspicion, A pious curiosity led
the writer of these pages to trace the stream to
its fountain. In his progress, he found much to
quicken his own zeal, confirm his resolution,
and comfort his heart. That his Christian
brethren may participate in these advantages
and consolations, he now sends this little vo-
lume to the Churches: trusting that, in some
degree, it may make glad the city of our God,
the holy place of the tabernacles of the Most
High.

This volume is sent, jvith the best wishes of
the Editor, to the timidj doubting^ yet consci-

INTRODUCTION. VII

entious believer : hoping' that it will lead him
to the persevering use of those means, that
raised our diffident and timorous Southern
Christian above all painful doubts and fears ;
and which brought him down to his grave in
peace.

To Christians of all denominations, this vo-
lume is presented. The period is come when
the world, in rebellion against God, is to be
subdued. By Christians, it is to be subdued.
By Christians, completely clad in gospel ar-
mor. In this war, heroes alone will stand.
When the sacramental host of God's elect is
composed of heroes of magnanimous daring,
when it is composed of such spirits as our
Southern Christian, it will march around the
globe, ' conquering and to conquer.' The Lamb
shall indeed overcome; "for he is Lord of
lords and King of kings ; when they that are
with him are called, and chosen, and faithful."
Would Christians witness the triumph of Christ
over all his foes, and share in the honor and

via I N T R O D U C T ION.

joy of that triumph; let them be in their seve-
ral places, as far as possible, what young Pear-
son was in his. Wlien professed Christians
recline at their ease, or in the Lord's vineyard
stand idle all the day long, in this age of bene-
volent exertion; when they give neither their
hearts, nor their hands, nor their influence, nor
their treasures, to spread abroad the gospel and
evangelize the world; who does not fear lest
that tremendous imprecation may light on
them: "Curse ye Meroz, (said the angel of the
Lord,) curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof;
because they came not to the help of the Lord,
to the help of the Lord against the mighty."

To candidates for the gospel ministry, and to
all who have lately entered the holy office, is
this volume especially directed. In Pearson
they will find a model, worthy of their imita-
tion. None of his most discerning friends will
think the assertion extravagant, that, with regard
to elevated piety and pure morals, he was every
thing that a minister of Christ should be. It

INTRODUCTION. IX

is true that tlie likeness, here drawn, is far be-
neath the original ; but in this rough sketch, at
least the outlines of his features may be dis-
tinctly traced. Such as he was, such may you
be. You profess the same religion, — ^^your
Bible is the same, — your Redeemer the same, —
your motives to zeal and activity the same.
Like him aspire after the highest degree of
godliness, — like him maintain communion with
God, from day to day, — like him consecrate
yourselves and all you possess, as well as all
you expect to possess, entirely to the service of
your gracious God, — and like him always abound
in the work of the Lord. Be like him ; and
if your talents are splendid, they will shine with
a heavenly lustre. Be like him ; and if you
have the rare requisites of an orator, guided
and impelled by the inimitable pathos of a
devout heart, you will speak with golden
tongues. Be like him ; and without the blaze
of superior genius, you may "turn many to.
righteousness ; and hereafter shine as the bright-

X INTRODUCTION.

ness of the firmament and as the stars forever
and ever."

My last reason, and my first too, for the pub-
lication of this volume is the GLORY of
our REDEEMER. Our Southern Christian
bore his image; — most distinctly exhibited his
features. No one could spend an hour in his
company without thinking of Him, who was
"meek and lowly in heart." Neither in this
district nor in this state, have we seen a more
striking demonstration of the existence and
power of Him, who is "mighty to save." We
might, without the aid of fanaticism, apply to
him the strong assertion of a distinguished
divine of France: "Whenever I see a man
remarkably spiritual and devout, I think I see
my Saviour." His zeal, temperate, but resolute ;
his compassion, spreading widely as the frailties,
the wants, and the sorrows of man ; his tranquil
meekness, which nothing could ruffle ; above
all, the heavenly bias of his heart, which
seemed to inscribe on his features, "Not of this

DEDICATION. XI

world"; — all brought to our recollection Him,
who while on earth said of himself, "the Son of
man who is in heaven."

DEDICATION.
This little work, is therefore dedicated to
the Lord Jesus Christ. The Editor asks
no patronage but his. The Editor dreads no
frown but his. For more than fifty years,
he has been a constant friend ; and most his
friend, when needed most. The entire remnant
of his years will, he trusts, be employed to per-
suade others to admire and love his inestima-
ble friend. This little volume goes forth in his
name ; its sole object is to make him known.
Blessed Jesus! pardon its errors, be indulgent
to its imperfections. Let thy favor 'encom-
pass it, as a shield.' Let thy Spirit attend it, to
the hearts of thousands ; let it live in the affec-
tionate remembrance of thy redeemed, when
the grave shall enclose thy unworthy servant,

J. BOGGS.

THE

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

CHAPTER I.

Anthony Jefferson Pearson was born on
the 6th day of February, 1810.

At the time of his birth, his father and mo-
ther were both members of the Church of Na-
zareth, in Spartanburgh District, South Carolina.
According to the custom of the church to which
they belonged, their infant son was early bap-
tized, and placed under the care of their cove-
nant-keeping God. The solemn hour, in which
they brought their little Jefferson to the altar of
God, his parents, with strong emotions, remem-
ber still. On that day, so fully did his mother's
heart surrender her child to the God of her
life; that she never, afterwards, regarded him
as her own. From that moment to the close
of his life, in her account he was the Lord's.

His ancestors, as far as they can be traced
back, were moral, patriotic, and respectable.
His father, and mother, and sister, their only

14 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

surviving child, are still members of the church
in which he was baptized.

At a very early period, he began to show
strong indications of that tender affection for
his mother, that distinguishes a good child.
Under the influence of the tenderness an affec-
tionate mother feels for her first and only babe,
she dreaded the moment, when it would be ne-
cessary to tear her little son from her bosom.
Already, in imagination, she had anticipated all
the pangs, attending the weaning of her beloved
boy. But fortunately, they were in a great
measure imaginary; for he submitted, almost
without a struggle: and showed even then, in
some degree, his high respect for parental au-
thority. To the lady, who kindly aided his
mother on that occasion, he, ever after, felt a
strong attachment.

Very early, his affectionate disposition inclin-
ed him to associate with other children ; but as
soon as they became rude, snatched away his
toys, or showed any signs of ill-nature, he with-
drew from them. One of his early associates
recollects that, when a child, he was held up by
parents, who knew him, as a pattern for their
own children. It was no uncommon occurrence,

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 15

for a mother to say to her chUd, "You are a
naughty boy ; Jefferson would not do so."

At a very early age, he manifested a strong
dislike to profane language. When cursing or
swearing reached his ear ; with much serious-
ness and earnestness, he used to say to his
mother, "Mamma, such a man said a very
naughty word ; but I must not tell what it was ;
or, it was so bad that you would not hear me
say it."

In the sixth year of his age, a local disease,
in the lower part of the forehead, well nigh
proved fatal; and much deranged his health,
for a considerable time. On account of this
protracted illness, he did not commence his
education, until he entered on his ninth year.
Mr. Jonathan N. Hadden, at Poplar Spring,
was his first preceptor. Under his direction,
he became acquainted with the rudiments of
our language. Until he was seven years old,
Jefferson being an only child, as a matter of
course, was much indulged ; and greatly endear-
ed to his parents, by his tedious, painful, and
alarming disease. Brought up under their own
eye and seldom out of their sight, their hearts
could scarce endure to think of the separation

16 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

that must take place, when he was put to school.
Tlie morning at length arrived, when he must
leave his father's house ; and for a time relin-
quish the endearments of home. His little
sister, now about a year old, began to occupy a
tender place in his affectionate heart; his parentvS
he loved with an unusual glow of filial attach-
ment. But all these tender ties, which made
home so sweet, could not confine him there. A
thirst for knowledge had, already awakened, in
his youthful bosom, a delightful hope, which
pointed to a home in Science, more enchant-
ing than that which he was now about to leave.
With his worthy preceptor by his side and
his book under his arm, and no tear in his eye,
young Pearson left his father's door. His mo-
ther's eye followed him, until the intervening
branches of the forest, clad in the robe of
spring, hid 'him from her sight. Aye, — and
her heart followed him too. When her dear
boy disappeared, she devoutly lifted a tearful
eye to Heaven, and wafted a mother's prayer
beyond the sky : " that the God of her fathers
would bless her son ; and make him his own."
He who gave the mother's tender heart, and
whose tenderness far surpasses hers, 'hearkened

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 17

and heard' ; and a book of remembrance was
written before him; — "He shall be mine, saith
the Lord, in the day when I make up my jew-
els."

Never was the mind of Jefferson so com-
pletely engrossed before. His book was his
meat and drink, — his father, his mother, his
little sister, his home and all to him. Had his
delighted instructer been surrounded by forty
such boys, he would have longed for no better
employment on earth. In less than two years,
he was a better scholar than most boys at the
age of ten. In spelling none in the school sur-
passed him, in reading few were equal, — in the
quickness and retentiveness of his memory, he
excelled them all. While under the care of
Mr. J. N. Hadden, in about twenty-two months,
in connection with his other studies, he had read
entirely through the Bible, and committed to
memory the whole of the Westminster Shorter
Catechism. Thus was the Bible, at an early
age, with all its interesting truths and facts
spread before his mind, from man's, creation to
his last account.

Here began that intellectual, sentimental, and
practical acquaintance with the Word of God,

13 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

which, at a maturer age, gave him a high rank
among those, in whom the word of Christ
dwells richly, in all wisdom.

His father — having purchased a farm in the
neighborhood of the Poplar Spring — removed
to it in the spring of 1820. The same year,
in the eleventh of his age, Jefferson commenced
the study of the Latin language, with Matthew
P. Evins, Esq., who had recently taken charge
of the Poplar Spring Academy. Under his
instruction, he read through the Latin Classics
in a little more than eighteen months. During
this period, his application to study was close
and unremitted ; each of his recitations was
prepared with care and accuracy. Among his
fellow-students his conduct was at once inoffen-
sive and amiable. If the interests of any his
companions seemed to clash with his, he never
contended. In the disputes of others, he had
no concern or agency, but to check or heal
them. He partook in no rude or noisy plays ;
hence while others were engaged in trifling, lie
was often observed seated alone or indulging in
a solitary ramble. While this steady, manly
course commanded the respect of his fellow-
students, it completely gained the confidence of

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 19

his teacher. Such, it is recollected, was his
love for truth, and so well established was his
reputation for veracity, that his simple afiirma-
liori, when required, had in evidence, all the
Aveight of an oath. So great was his reverence
for truth, that he could not endure to hear it
violated even in jest.

The Latin school at Poplar Spring being
discontinued, Jefferson spent the next year in
aiding his father on his farm. In his new situ-
ation, his diligence, fidelity, and cheerful acqui-
escence in the will of his parents, served to
bring him nearer to their hearts. But his fond-
ness for reading, in the intervals of labor, plainly
showed them whither turned the bias of his
mind. The wants of his body were indeed
v/ell supplied ; but his inquisitive mind panted
for something higher.

His former classical teacher having opened
a school at Rocky Springs, in 1824 he resumed
his studies. After having reviewed some of
the Latin authors previously read ; he entered
on the study of the Greek language ; and in
two years became a correct Greek scholar.
Now for the first time he viewed the word of
life in its original dress. Or, to change the

20 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

figure, now he drank the water of life, as it
flowed unmixed from its own pure fountain.
Such, at that early period, was the prevailing
bias of his mind, that he turned, with inexpress-
ible avidity, from the sparkling wit of Horace,
or the melting tenderness of Virgil, or the full
flowing periods of Cicero, to the simple un-
varnished story of Christ crucified. With a
pleasure the classics never yielded him before,
he read the narrative of the Evangelist John
and that of Luke in his Acts of the Apostles.
The time spent in pondering over these sacred
authors, which he regarded as among his best
days, gave him a more lively interest in gospel
truth ; and laid the Bible nearer to his heart.

In 1826, M. P. Evins, Esq. declined teaching
at Rocky Spring, on account of ill-health ; and
young Pearson's studies were again interrupted
for several months. His preceptor, on recover-
ing his health, opened a school at Poplar Spring,
which Pearson attended for five months; and
during that period reviewed his classical studies.
Now with a heavy heart, full of grateful recol-
lections, he bade adieu to his worthy and
amiable preceptor, whose smile he had shared
for four whole years ; and whose guiding hand

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 21

had led him through the fields and groves and
along the streams of classic story. On memo-
ry's list of faithful, useful friends, among the
highest, stood the name of Matthew F. Evins,
Esq., engraved in characters which death could
not efface.

His studies are now to cease for two whole
years. The first of which (1827) he was em-
ployed on his father's farm ; the second (1828)
he was engaged as a teacher at Poplar Spring.
In his own neighborhood, where Kis father had
lived more than seven years, and where he had
been a pupil at least four years, he is appointed
instructer in the Poplar Spring Academy, when
he had just completed his seventeenth year.
This fact shows distinctly in what estimation
his own neighborhood held his talents, his
attainments, and his steadiness. Instead of dis-
appointing he exceeded their expectations ; and
the hazardous experiment of that year more
fully developed his character, and raised him
higher in public confidence.

At the close of the year he resigned his sta-
tion in the Poplar Spring Academy, in favor of
Rev. J. L. Kennedy, with whom he prosecuted
the study of the Greek language, and reviewed ^

22 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

part of the Latin classics. With the same
teacher he studied Algebra and Geometry, A
habit of fixed attention already acquired, close
application increasing with the necessity that
demanded it, an untiring perseverance that no
difficulty could thwart, soon made him familiar
with those sciences. Besides, his native love
of truth gave him an exquisite relish for mathe-
matical demonstration. Here he found truth,
arrayed in her own simple dress, shining in her
own peculiar beauties. In the progress of his
studies, besides stated exercises in declamation,
he wrote essays on a variety of subjects, and
acquired the habit of expressing his thoughts
with perspicuity and ease.

At an early period, Pearson became a mem-
ber of a Bible class, under the care of his faith-
ful and beloved pastor, the Rev. M. Dickson.
Of all the classes with which he had been here-
tofore united, this was to him the most delight-
ful. The moving narratives, the sublime doc-
trines, the divine precepts of the Bible, in their
turns, occupied his attention ; and were fixed
ill his memory, his mind, and his heart. This
kind of intellectual, rather evangelical training,
led him more carefully and profoundly to search

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 23

for truth, and to admire and love it more when
found. His lessons were studied with unusual
care, and deeply impressed on a retentive mem-
ory. Hence before he reached his twentieth
year, he was familiar with every part of his
Bible.

When the Bible class was succeeded by a
Sabbath school, he was first a pupil, afterwards
a teacher. In each situation, he manifested, in
a high degree, the determined spirit of one who
was resolved to become thoroughly acquainted
with the whole of the word of God. He care-
fully observed and cheerfully discharged every
duty growing out of his relation to the Bible
class and Sabbath school. When a pupil he
was not dumb, while the song of praise was
sung. One of his juvenile companions recol-
lects, that hearing Jefferson's voice, awakened
in him a desire and determination to sing.
The sight of a boy smaller than himself, fear-
lessly and zealously singing the praises of God,
overcame his bashfulness: and thenceforward
he followed his example.

When a Teacher in the Sabbath school, be-
sides suitable remarks and explanations, he
occasionally delivered appropriate and impress-
ive exhortations.

CHAPTER II.

Notwithstanding his early acquaintance
with the Bible and his correct moral habits, he
did not join in the communion of the church,
until he had entered on his twenty-first year.
To use his own language, the cause of this de-
lay was: '*! do not recollect any one sermon,
or any particular book, or any passage of Scrip-
ture, that has had more effect upon me than
another. But if I have been rightly awakened,
it has been by these and other means combined.
Neither can I point to any particular time or
place, when or where, a sudden change was
wrought. If I am indeed renewed, the change
has been gradual." He adds, "And I must
confess, when I joined the Church, the exer-
cises of my mind were not such as I wished
them to be. The principal motive which
prompted me to that act, was that I felt it to be
my duty." As he knew neither the time nor
the place of his conversion, he all along doubted
whether he had been actually regenerated.

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 25

Hence he hesitated to join himself publicly to
the disciples of Christ ; until his touching com-
mand, " Do this in remembrance of me," came
down upon his conscience and heart with a
power which he could no longer resist.

When he attached himself to the church, no
one doubted his piety but himself. So con-
scientious had he been from his infancy, so
careful to avoid evil, so fond of retirement, so
partial to his Bible, so much pleased with the
company of the pious, that several judicious
friends, who knew him intimately, conjectured
that he was sanctified from his birth. This
however was not his own opinion ; for in search-
ing for evidence of piety, about the time he be-
came a member of the church, he says: "one
thing I can observe, that my affections are set
on different objects from those which once en-
grossed my thoughts. In this opinion he was
confirmed, by a farther knowledge of himself
and the character of a Christian delineated in
the w^ord of God. The year, in which Mr.
Pearson joined the church, there was a revival
at Nazareth. He attended every interesting
meeting within his reach. He w^as deeply con-
cerned, because he did not feel as others felt.

26 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

He longed to awake, amidst all the horrors of
conviction. But to his daily regret, he remained
in a great measure unmoved. He saw others
alarmed first, and afterwards rejoicing in hope;
and he devoutly wished to be of their number.
He prayed for the terrors of conviction ; but
they came not. He expected to undergo some
remarkable change; but he hoped in vain. The
time of refreshing passed away; and left him,
as he feared, among the unconverted. Then it
was, that he was brought low; and, in the most
profound humility, resolved to join himself to
the Lord, in an everlasting covenant. This re-
solution was, no doubt, strengthened by the pe-
rusal of Dodridge's "Rise and Progress of Reli-
gion," which he had just finished.

I have been particular in recording these
facts, not only because truth required them, but
also because the experience of many others de-
mands the encouragement they afford. ' The
tree is ever known best by its fruit' ; and piety
is best proved by its daily influence over the
heart and life. A consciencious regard to the
Divine will in every thing, an habitual fear of
offending, a deep sense of unworthiness, re-
nouncing all merit in good deeds, a reliance on

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 27

Christ alone for salvation, an habitual and in-
creasing panting after holiness; these are the
only evidences of genuine godliness, on which
any one ought to rely. If he know the time
and place of his conversion, that knowledge will
avail him nothing in his Christian course, with-
out present evidence of piety. In the very
nature of things, no Christian can rely securely
on past experience, without present demonstra-
tions of sincerity. It is beyond all doubt certain,
that genuine piety will advance ; if it advance,
it will become more apparent; when it does not
appear in the heart and life, its very existence
is doubtful; in such circumstances therefore it
would be unreasonable and perilous to depend
on past experience.

Besides it is doubtful, whether there are any
among professing Christians, who know pre-
cisely the moment of their regeneration. They
can, perhaps, date the moment when the hope
of eternal life commenced; but their regenera-
tion might have taken place previously. Farther,
at the time of regeneration, they are not so
well acquainted M^ith its nature and properties,
as to be competent judges whether that change
has passed on them. We may add, the change

28 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

effected is imperfect and not so complete as
was anticipated; and therefore not so visible to
the person who has experienced it as he desires.
When, therefore, the renewed man looks back
to the season of his conversion, he often fails to
find all that lucid and satisfactory evidence
which he wishes ; hence he doubts about the
time as well as the reality of his conversion.
Moreover, the best and the most judicious
Christians are the most apt to suspect the sin-
cerity and reality of their past frames and exer-
cises. For these and other reasons, there are
doubtless found among the children of God,
some who cannot point to the precise moment
of their conversion. Among such, too, we often
find the most humble, zealous, and exemplary
Christians. Perhaps their compassionate Father,
who knows their frame, has left them involved
in uncertainty respecting the time of their con-
version, that they may strive more constantly
to make their calling and election sure-

About the middle of March, 1830, Mr. Pear-
son became a member of the church at Naza-
reth ; before the close of the same month, he
commenced writing a concise history of his past
life: deeming it essentially necessary (to use

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 2U

his own language) to keep a correct account of
the principal transactions of his life, not only for
his own satisfaction while living, but for that
of posterity when dead. This sketch has fur-
nished materials for the pages already passed
over. At the same time he commenced a jour-
nal, which will form the outline of the Narra-
tive for the two next years.

About this time, having heard an account of
the College at Knoxville, Tennessee, which at-
tracted his attention, with the consent of his
parents, he was determined to repair thither
immediately. This intention, however, was re-
linquished for six months, in compliance with
the earnest solicitation of Dr. Evins, and seve-
ral of his neighbors, to open a school in their
vicinity. In this School his natural gravity,
mingled with mildness and patience, secured the
respect of all his pupils; and his unceasing con-
cern for their intellectual, moral, and spiritual
improvement, as readily gained their affectionate
regard. The interest which the community
took in the continuance of the school, is
strongly evinced by an incident which occurred,
that for a short time interrupted its progress.

When the house, in which the school was
3*

30 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

kept, was consumed by fire, in a very few days
a new one was erected. As there was a family
living in the school-house, the school was
opened at Mr. Lathrop's. In about two weeks
after its commencement, the family occupying
the school-house removed; the next day the
teacher and his pupils took possession. The
day following, which was Saturday, Mr. Pear-
son repaired to his school-house to make some
preparations for the better accommodation of
his pupils, the next week; but the building was
reduced to ashe?, and several of the neighbors
were already engaged in preparing and collect-
ing materials for a new one. On Monday the
house was raised; on Tuesday completed so
far that the school began its operations on
Wednesdav. Such a conflagration, in ordinary
circumstances, would have destroyed the school,
as well as the house. But this unexpected fire
served only to warm the hearts of his friends ;
and give fresh lustre to the name of the modest
preceptor.

About this time, a deeper interest in the wel-
fare of the Sabbath school at Nazareth was
'generally felt by the members of the church;

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 31

a well selected library was procured, and Pear-
son was appointed librarian. This was an
office which exactly suited his taste. It put in
his hands a choice selection ©f books, suited at
once to enlarge the mind and improve the heart
of a young man, sincerely devoted to the ser-
vice of his Redeemer. In the midst of his ju-
venile library, he had an opportunity at once
of extending his researches after biblical truth,
and seeing its power and glory manifested in
the lives of others. During this period, he read
the memoirs of Leigh Richmond with uncom-
mon pleasure. This volume, I have no doubt,
gave an expansion to his heart, which it had
never felt before. The tract of the Dairyman^ s
Daughter had already found a warm place in
his bosom, which served, like the morning star,
to usher in the bright sun which followed it.
Closing the interesting volume, and clasping it
to his heart, he said, " I will be Leigh Rich-
mond." And many a prayer did he send to
heaven, that he might have such a heart a^
Leigh Richmond had. It is thus, that a Brain
erd produced a Martin, and a Richmond a Pear
son. " One generation of the righteous passeth
away, and another cometh. So true is the pro-

3J S O U T H K R N CHRISTIAN.

mise recorded amidst the annals of mortality :
The children of thy servants shall continue, and
their seed shall be established before thee. Abel
is not the only departed saint, who, being dead,
yet speaketh. Leigh Richmond, on earth, is no
more; but he yet speaketh. Jefferson Pear-
son's voice is heard no more, but his spirit yet
lives, and yet speaks in the circle of his nume-
rous friends, and in the congregations he once
addressed.

Near the close of the last quarter of his
school, he attended a camp-meeting at Naza-
retli ; and after the expiration of the term for
which he had engaged to teach, he spent two
days at another at Fairview. At these meet-
ings he had pleasant fellowship with his Christ-
ian brethren ; and felt an increasing desire ' to
spend and be spent for the Lord Jesus Christ."
They had also a happy influence on his mind,
in relation to the separation which was about
to take place between him and his father's
family, on going to college.

He had, indeed, boarded from home, first at
his uncle White's, when he attended Mr. Had-
den's school, at Poplar Spring; afterwards
with Mrs. Evins of the same place. While at

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 33

Rocky Spring, he boarded in the family of
Sheriff Miller ; and also for some time at the
house of Mrs. Moore, in the same neighbor-
hood. But all this time, he was within the
liniits of the congregation in which he had
lived from his infancy, and among his relatives
and friends ; it was in his power, also, to be at
home at the close of every week.

But now he is about to leave his father's roof,
to dwell for a time among strangers. His sister
is now almost grown, and ardently attached to
her only brother; his grandmother now lives
in the family, and doats on her grandson ; his
father and mother love him, at the least, as
much as parents ought to love a son : and Jef-
ferson, from his he:\rt, reciprocates all their
sympathies. But he counsels not with flesh
and blood. On Tuesday, the 19th of October,
1830, amidst a conflict of contending emotions,
he turned his face towards Tennessee, and on
the 23d, safely reached Knoxville. The roads
and weather were fine, and nothing interrupted
his progress ; except an occasional pause to ad-
mire the stupendous works of God, and thence
devoutly adore their more stupendous Author.

CHAPTER III.

Mr. Pearson arrived at Knoxville on Satur-
day evening, about the close of twilight. On
Sabbath morning he awaked amidst the new
scenes and prospects of a town, in which he
expected for months to dwell. Never before
had he dwelt within the precincts of a village.
In the country he had been used to the stillness
of the Sabbath morn, the pensive ramble in the
forest; in the town, the confused murmur of
many voices, the sound of busy feet of men and
horses, and rattling of carriages, all conspire.to
discompose his spirits, andimpair the solemnity
of the Sabbath day. He looks abroad — much
around him tells him there is no Sabbath there ;
but a iew edifices, decent but not magnificent,
remind him that the God of the Sabbath is
worshipped there. The sun, diffusing his mild
rays over the village, has nearly reached his
zenith, when the sound of church-going bells
invites to the house of prayer. To the glad-
dening sound, the heart of our youthful stranger

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 35

turns; he throws himself amidst the crowd, and
with the moving current, reaches the temple of
God. Now he feels at home. Many an hum-
ble, serious face, the proper index of a devout
heart, taught him that the grace of God was not
wanting there. Their features all were strange ;
not so their hearts. They seemed to feel as he
had felt. In them, therefore, he began to feel
an interest, which was much increased by that
which, at the close of the meeting, was shown
by some for him. His youthful visage, over
which hung the shades of reverential awe, his
fixed attention which nothing could divert, his
straight-forward look, which seemed to look at
'• something beyond the world," awakened more
than furiosity in the heart of many a stranger
that day. As he slowly and gravely left the
house of God, many an eye was turned on him,
and often was the question repeated, " What
good young man is that?" Soon he found
friends in Knoxville. All pious hearts instinc-
tively turned to him.

In about a week after his arrival, he entered
the junior class in college, and pursued his
studies with his usual perseverance and zeal.
He soon gained the confidence both of the

36 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN,

faculty and his fellow students. The repeated
reports of the former, show distinctly the esti-
mation in which he was held by them. The
fact, that within three months after he was
united to the library society to which he be-
longed, he was unanimously chosen president,
proves how much he was loved and respected by
the latter.

But we turn from the diligent, conscientious,
and successful student, to view him as the hum-
ble, devout, and exemplary Christian. Hereto-
fore his piety was in a great measure locked up
in his own breast. It appeared not before the
world, otherwise than as it was seen in a uniform,
conscientious, and unblemished morality. Taci-
turn to a fault, he never spoke of his experience.
Like the sensitive plant, he instinctively recoiled
from the hand that would dare to uncover the
secrets of his heart. This excessive reserve
sprung partly from his natural temperament,
and partly from his strong aversion to ostenta-
tion. With the modest Cowper, he could have
said truly: In my soul I loath all affectation.

But the dim, flickering lamp that shone with-
in, is destined to brighten and shed its rays all
around. Soon after his arrival at Knoxville, he

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 37

joined, in celebrating the Lord's Supper, with
the First Presbyterian Church ; and on the next
Lord's day he enjoyed the same privilege in the
Second Presbyterian Church. Both these sea-
sons were deeply affecting to him. They seemed
to turn his mind upon itself. They urged the
searching question, Am I born of the Spirit?

Memory retraces the past, conscience inspects
the present, fancy surveys the future. Imper-
fections, negligence, forgetfulness, ingratitude,
mingled with numberless sins, crowd together.
Flis present faith is feeble, his love languid, his
hope faltering. Doubts on the whole prevail.
He feels that something more must be felt,
something more done. While thus agitated, a
letter arrives from a distant friend, prescribing
the very course he ought to take. He receives
it as a message from heaven, and follows forth-
with the salutary directions it contains. He
now commences the habit of retiring every
evening for secret prayer ; which, according to
his own confession, had been heretofore per-
formed after lying down, — negligently of course
performed ! Now his anxieties increase, he is
beginning to be in good earnest. It is indeed
winter ; the sun had nearly reached its solstice ;

4 ^^

38 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

but the temperature of the season has not chilled
the anxious heart of young Pearson. In a few
days he comes to the resolution to rise before
the dawn of day, to pour out his heart to God,
in prayer. A duty which, he adds, he had
before discharged before rising.

Now it was, for the first time, that he beo-an to
show strong symptoms of spiritual life. Out-
Avardly indeed he adorned the doctrine of God
his Saviour, in all things ; but within, there was
a sad want of spiritual vigor*and warmth. Re-
ligion may and ought to be cherished on the
pillow. A pious man may truly say: I shall be
satisfied as with marrow and fatness, when I
remember thee on my bed. But if, in ordinary
cases, it rest there and proceed no farther, I
fear it will slumber always. No wonder he
heretofore, in religious matters, kept silence,
for the fire did not burn within. In prayer he
obtained relief and comfort. His lips were
now opened. Out of the abundance of a full
heart he could now readily speak.

CHAPTER IV.

A NEW era now commences in the de-
velopment of the character of Jefferson Pear-
son. Such a revolution took place in his heart
during the winter of 1830 and 1831, that onmy
first perusal of his journal, I dated his piety
from that period. One of his letters however,
in which he refers to the period of his conver-
sion, induced me afterwards to conclude that it
had most probably taken place before he went
to Knoxville. Besides, within a few months
before his death, he had a free conversation
with a particular friend, respecting his past ex-
perience, after which he was asked whether he
supposed his conversion had occurred before or
after joining in the communion of the church?
He replied without hesitation, " That if renew-
ed at all, the change had taken place before that
time.". He added, " That truly his views were
greatly enlarged, that his feelings were much
more intense, his comforts much increased,
while in Knoxville; but he notwithstanding
believed, that he had previously similar views,

40 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

and feelings, and comforts, in a lower degree."
In cases of this sort, with regard to him-
self, the judgment of a judicious man (and such
was Jefierson Pearson) may be more safely
relied on than that of any other.

He is thoroughly acquainted with his own
views and feelings ; and the comparison between
his exercises at different periods, is one which
he alone can make. Hence we can safely con-
fide in the opinion of an honest man, respect-
ing his own experience and the probable season
of his conversion. And hence we may con-
clude, that J. Pearson's judgment concerning
the time of his conversion, was correct. This
view, besides, corresponds precisely with the
word of God, in which the commencement of
piety in the heart is compared to a grain of
mustard seed, to a little leaven fermenting in a
large quantity of flour, and to the rising sun.
" The path of the just is as the shining light
that shineth more and more unto the perfect
day." There is first the dawn, gradually
brightening until the sun appears, then w^ith
steady pace he pursues his resplendent course,
until in a full blaze of glory he reaches noon.

After some sharp conflicts, some painful

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN

41

doubts, and distressing forebodings, young Pear-
son at length, most unworthy as he felt himself
to be, fell at the feet of Christ crucified. Here-
tofore he had known himself but in part, and
doubtless relied too much on his exemplary
life ; now, acquainted with the evils of his
heart, and feeling the burden of his sinfulness,
he rested his hope entirely on the Lamb of
God, that taketh away the sin of the world.
The peace of God, that passeth all understand-
ing, began now to take possession of his heart
and his mind, in Christ Jesus. His hope was
much strengthened by his intimate acquaintance
with the doctrines of his Bible, and the habit
which he about this time formed, of reviewing
every evening all that he had thought, or pur-
posed, or felt, or done, during the day. Being
at once familiar with his own heart and the pe-
culiarities of the character of a Christian, as
found in the word of God, the Spirit of God
began distinctly to witness with his spirit that
he was a child of God.

The doubt about the reality of his regenera-
tion being now quelled, and believing that God
had called him by his grace, he daily becomes
more fervent in spirit. Thenceforward it might

42 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

be truly said of him he was "a devout man.^^
On one occasion we find him rejoicing that he
occupies a room alone, that he may have full
liberty to draw near to God, at the hour of retire-
ment. When he has one or more fellow-students
lodged with him in the same room, he retires
morning and evening to the house of God, to
vent the pious feelings of his heart in commu
nioa with heaven. Now truly the spirit of the
gospel, and the spirit of Christ, inform and in-
vigorate his whole soul. Now with regard to
the events of the passing day or the occurrences
of future life, he has but one question to ask :
Lord what wilt thou have me to do ?

He again resumes the employment of a Sab-
bath school instructer; and is among the
foremost of those who are instant in season and
out of season. Now he begins, in earnest, to
desire to preach the gospel. Finding it glad
tidings of great joy to his own heart, he longs
to impart its consolations to others. Regarding
Christ as his best friend, he wishes all around
to admire, adore, and love him. He had indeed
before hoped at some future period, to be quali-
fied to preach the gospel ; but now his whole
heart turns to the blessed work. As a good and

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 43

dutiful son, he first consults his parents ; and is
gratified to find that tlieir wishes accord with
his own. Then, with proper respect for his
first teacher, he communicates to him his feel-
ings and views, asking at once for his prayers
and advice. This letter containing this informa-
tion leads us so directly into the heart of the
writer, that we think best, by giving a full copy
of it, to allow him to speak for himself It is
dated

^' Knoxville, Tenn. Jan. \st, 1831.

" Dear Friend, —

" I will now endeavor to comply with the re-
quest which you made before I left home, that
I should write to you, stating my views with
respect to becoming a minister.

" In the first place, I must acknowledge a dif-
fidence, which I have too often manifested, to
converse on religious subjects. But at this
time, I would fain cast it away, and try to lay
open before you the secret operations of the
heart : which I can venture to do with less back-
wardness by letter, than by personal conversa-
tion. But, I fear, it will be difficult to present
to Vou a true account of the various doubts, fears;

44 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

hopes, and feelings, which agitate my mind. The
subject of becoming a minister has occupied a
chief place in my thoughts, since I became a
member of the church, and in some degree be-
fore, without ever coming to a final decision.
This indecision has rendered me uneasy ; and
does so still. On the one hand, the importance
and responsibility of the office deters from,
while on the other, a sense of duty urges me to,
the undertaking. Fears arise, when consider-
ing such texts of Scripture as say, that the blood
of the wicked who die in their iniquity unwarn-
ed by the priest, shall be required at his hands.
Again there is encouragement in the promise
that he who ' turns many to righteousness, shall
shine as the brightness of the firmament, and as
the stars, for ever and ever.'

" Sometimes I fear that I have not the true
religion of Jesus, and should I become a minis-
ter, I would disgrace the office, act the hypo-
crite, and be as a goat among sheep. At other
times I feel cold and indifierent on the subject,
which serves to strengthen the above convic-
tion. But when I consider the command : ' Go
into all the world, and preach the gospel to
every creature;' — and recollect, that to whom

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 45

much is given of him shall much be required,
(though I would not boast,) I am constrained to
say, Here am I, Lord ! do with me whatsoever
seemeth good in thy sight. Yet when I am
resolved to devote myself entirely to the cause
of Christ, then doubts arise whether I am doing
it from pure motives, from a genuine love of
souls and the glory of God ; or for my own
convenience, "aggrandizement, and other selfish
motives.

"If I were completely decided, and could
believe that I was chosen of the Lord to the
work of the ministry, I would be contented.
Conscience would be at ease. I would have an
object in view in pursuing literature, which
would render my studies delightful. Never-
theless, I would expect to meet with persecu-
tion from the world ; which, however, is of
small weight in comparison with the consola-
tion, that the Lord has pronounced a blessing
on those who are reviled and persecuted for his
sake."

Then follows the extract already made from
this letter (page 24), in which he speaks of his
uncertainty about the precise time of his con-
version.

46 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

While thus deeply engaged in spiritual af-
fairs, he was incidentally betrayed into a fault,
which gave him much pain. When he was
about to purchase a pair of shoes, which were
offered to him for two dollars, without sufficient
reflection, he replied he could obtain as good a
pair for one dollar seventy-five cents. The
merchant, without hesitation, permitted him to
take them at that reduced price. # On retiring
to his room and carefully examining the shoes,
he was convinced that they were worth more
than he had given for them ; and was extremely
mortified, that the whole transaction had the
appearance of falsehood and covetousness.
Immediately he confessed his sin before Him
whose eye is on the heart, at the same time im-
ploring his aid, to give him courage to acknow-
ledge it to the man whom he had injured. He
rose from his knees, repaired to the store, can-
didly confessed his fault, and made ample
restitution.

This indeed was a small incident; but it fully
lays open a heart in which there was no guile.
In the estimation of many, the offence was so
small, that it would seem to indicate a sickly
delicacy of moral feeling, to notice it at all.

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 47

But let it be remembered that the smallest grain
of sand can form the big tear in the most vigo-
rous eye. The vaporing hero would promptly
s^y, it was a degrading act. But magnanimity
herself may defy him to do any thing greater,
with his club, his pistols, and his dirk.

That is great that is registered in heaven, —
in the annals of the brave ; that act is great,
however it appear on earth, that shall be had
in everlasting remembrance. A Washinorton ac-
knowledging his error to an antagonist, who had
retorted it on him with his uplifted cane, is a
figure that will far transcend in comparison the
diminutive Burr scowling with a vengeful eye
on the ruins of the fallen Hamilton. Among
little dastardly souls, that have not courage
enough to confess a fault, our Pearson lises, as
the lofty oak over the meager shrubs, that
dwindle in its shadow.

This bitter incident proved haply benejficial
afterwards. It led our soldier of the Cross into
the most secret folds of his heart, in pursuit of
evils which might lie there concealed. In this
narrow search, he made discoveries Avhich filled
him with horror. From the monstrous forms
of iniquity which now appeared, he shrunk back

48 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

aghast ! Of that sad day he thus pathetically
speaks : '• During the day my thoughts were
turned on sin, from which mv mind recoiled,
feeling that if I had a proper sight of sin, it
would takeaway life. Such feelings, however,
had I on this occasion, that my strength failed
and I was ready to faint." Among the evils
which that day brought to light, was spiritual
pride ; which had been probably his besetting
sin. Such was the purity of his morals, that
it was natural enough to make flattering com-
parisons between himself and others. The
above mentioned occurrence had a happy ten-
dency to level all such towering conceits.
Three days after, he says with a sigh, "I con-
tinued to feel the burden of spiritual pride ;
which consists in thinking myself better than
others ; and the want of humility, which con-
sists in thinking favorably of others and lowly
of one's-self" Now he feels in every nerve
and fibre the worth of a Saviour. Hence he
winds up the paragraph quoted, by the most
natural inference: "I had also a desire to trust
all to Christ, and nothing to myself"

Then might Pearson have said truly: when
I am weak, then am I strong. Weak indeed in

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 49

native power, but strong in the grace which is
in Chriot Jesus.

About this time another instance of moral
courage occurred, which ought not to pass in
silence. While reclining on his bed at night,
he discovered that, in an adjacent room, some
of his fellow-students were engaged in playing
cards. So deeply impressed on his heart was
the command, 'Thou shalt in anywise rebuke
thy neighbor and not suffer sin upon him,' that
he could not close his eyes in sleep until, having
sought aid from Heaven, he had repaired to
their room and fearlessly reproved them. This
was not an ebullition of enthusiasm ; it was a
deliberate act. It was not the reckless hardi-
hood of insensibility; it was the delicate con-
sciousness of one, who would not needlessly
set foot upon a worm. In the mild, patient,
unoffending Pearson, it was the heroic deed of
a Christian.

5

CHAPTER V.

Thus passed the winter session of 1830 and
'31. Of our young Christian it may be well
said: he was *'not slothful in business, fervent
in spirit, serving the Lord." In literature his
progress was steady and reputable. In self-
knowledge, in the science of salvation, his pro-
ficiency was still more apparent. Among the
seasons of his life, that winter holds a distin-
guished place. It brought to light a character
which had heretofore sought the shade of ob-
scurity, and dwelt there. It may be regarded
not as the winter, but as the spring of his spi-
ritual existence. Now bloomed the flowers,
which were an earnest of future fruits.

Having received a letter from his father, ex-
pressing a wish that he would spend the spring
vacation at home, at the close of the session
he was irj* readiness to depart for South Caro-
lina. On the morning of the first day of the
vacation, which was Thursday, he left Knox-
ville, and orj the Tuesday following arrived at
his father's house. This was prompt indeed !

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 51

At every step he felt the attractions of home !
But did he, in his haste, violate the Sabbath?
No ! When the Sabbath came, it found him at
rest. Both his conscience and his heart revered
the will of the Supreme; and he did "remem-
ber the Sabbath day to keep it holy." And in
its successive returns, he remembered it always.
His were Sabbaths indeed !

On this journey, our traveller met with but
one occurrence worthy of being recounted here.
On the second day, he overtook a stranger on
the way, — a young man like himself A few
interchanging looks, as they moved along toge-
ther, raised the hope, that they were verily
travelling the same road, and had a higher
destination in view than any one on earth.
There is a sympathy in souls. Theirs met,
almost before they were aware. They had a
common friend; that friend was Jesus, and
through him their spirits m^et. They understood
the language of Canaan, they spoke it; and
their hearts burned within them by the way.
They parted; but they remembered the feel-
ings of that hour: for they had made a deep
impression on their hearts. They parted ; but
it was in the hope of a better meeting. Pear-

52 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

son is on his way home. The thought of home

quickens his pace. He is ready to sing as he

hies along:

" Home ! sweet home !
There's no place like home !"

His father, his grandmother, his mother, and his
sister are, in fancy, all before him. Oh, the
extatic hope! he will soon embrace them all!
But amidst these anticipated raptures, one drea-
ry thought, like a dark cloud, spreads over his
mind, and all is gloom. Ah! he sighs, ah! be-
loved home ; but there is no family altar there!
His heart aches, while he dwells in sadness on
the tremendous imprecation of an inspired pro-
phet: "Pour out thy fury on the heathen, and
the families that call not on thy name!" It is
like the thunder of Sinai to his melting heart.
With an eye raised to Heaven, imploring aid,
he resolves, that this blasting imprecation shall,
if possible, be averted from his beloved home.
But what can he do ? He respects his father
profoundly. He is a youth without experience,
— and diffidence itself. But something must be
done. It is He demands it, "who giveth power
to the faint; and to them who have no might,
increaseth strength." His purpose is fixed;

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 53

bvt he looks upwards for support. He arrives
at home; all is gladness around. Tears flow
apace; but not such as sorrow wrings from the
heart. The sun is near the western horizon,
about to leave the earth in the shades of night ;
and his departing rays remind Jefferson of the
family altar. He had said within himself, it
must be erected this night. But how? Who
will do it? Or who will make the proposal
to do it? On this all-absorbing subject, he had
not thouffht alone. His mother's anxieties cor-
responded with his own. The proposal comes
from her. The family assemble. The Bible
appears, the song of praise is sung, and Jeffer-
son prays. Before, he had prayed in the silent
chamber, in the solitary church, and in the
shady forest; but he now prays in the midst of
those he loves, and verily pours out his full
heart to God. That prayer is remembered
still, and remembered too with tears. It
was an answer to prayers, which none but God
had heard. And a charming earnest of a
bountiful supply of "a spirit of grace and of
supplication." Here was a little group min-
gling hearts together, which Heaven saw with

pleasure.

5*

54 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

HaviVig had, through the grace of God, reso-
lution enough to pray in the family circle, he
now entreats his father to assume the office of
priest in his own house, and offer himself the
morning and evening sacrifice. His arguments
are powerful and convincing; they go through
the mind, they reach the heart. And arguments
of such a son, on such a subject, must have
reached the heart. There were great difficul-
ties in the way. His father lived on a public
road, and frequently had company. But his
son modestly maintained that those difficulties
could be surmounted, and strongly hoped that,
by the grace of God, they would be. To him
it appeared to be inconsistent to make a profes-
sion of religion, without a vigorous and perse-
vering resolution to confess Christ before men
(when duty required it) on all occasions, and at
all times.

Having entered into the spirit of the tempe-
rance reform, he was very solicitous that his
father should become a member of a tempe-
rance society lately established at Nazareth ;
and thus agree to banish all intoxicating liquors
from his house. In relation to this subject he
thought muchf prayed often, and held several

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 55

conversations with his father. So prudent, so
respectful, so persevering were his efforts, that
they finally prevailed. Through his instrumen-
tality, his father, at length, became a firm and
zealous advocate of temperance. After an ex-
jjeriment of more than four years, he still re-
joices in looking back to the revolution wrought
in his views at that period by the salutary influ-
ence of his son.

The following address, delivered first in a
debating society at Knoxville, of which he was
a member, will show clearly the reasons why
he was so zealous a patron of temperance and
temperance associations. The question discuss-
ed was, "Are temperance societies calculated
to answer the purpose for which they were in-
tended ?"

" The purpose of temperance societies is evi-
dently to promote temperance and counteract
the evils of intemperance, and thereby promote
the happiness of man. To show that they are
calculated to answer these purposes, let us draw
a parallel between the evils of intemperance
and the advantages of temperance ; by doing
which we will be prepared to judge whether or
not temperance societies, on the principle of

56 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

entire abstinence, are calculated to root out the
evils of intemperance and advance the happiness
of man.

*' Intemperance destroys health and comeli-
ness, property and reputation, friendship and do-
mestic tranquillity. All these are preserved by
temperance. The one destroys the minJ; the
other improves it. The one converts a man
into a beast; the other makes him more a man.
The one shortens life; the other prolongs it.
Such a contrast might be lengthened out to
almost any extent. But this is sufficient to
prove that temperance associations arc calcu-
lated to promote the welfare of men, if they can
^check or repress intemperance.

"But perhaps it will be said that a temperance
reform may be brought about by individual ab-
stinence, without any associations. To this I
would reply, that individuals, while standing
alone, exert comparatively but little influence.
But let them be united in a society, and their
influence will then be felt individually, collec-
tively, and effectually, in the community to
which they belong. If an enemy should invade
our country, would it be a wise policy to suffer
every individual to march by himself, meet the

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 57

enemy where he pleased, and fight him in his
own way? By this means the enemy woukl
have to contend with a disorganized few, and
might march through our country, conquering
and wasting wherever he might turn. But dif-
ferent would the case be should we enlist our-
selves into companies, unite our strength, and
meet the foe on the borders of our land. He
would then feel our power, and be driven back
in confusion and dismay. Apply the simile.
Intemperance, our common enemy, is now
stalking abroad through our territories, slaying
our citizens, confiscating their property, making
widows and orphans, and leading captive at his
will all ages and ranks. And shall we give our
silent consent to such outrages? But how shall
we stop the career of the destructive foe ? How,
but by uniting the soldiers of temperance, and
counteracting his movements at every step?
This is the only sure method to expel him from
the land.

" The very opposition raised against tempe-
rance societies is a full proof that they are cal-
culated to answer the purposes for which they
were instituted. Why do men oppose tempe-
rance societies? The reason is obvious; they

58 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

fear they will accomplish their design. If
there was no room for this fear, there would
be no opposition. If those who distil and sell
ardent spirits, and get gain thereby, did not fear
that their craft was likely to be brought to
naught by temperance societies, they would not
lift against them their voice. If those who
have been so habituated to intemperance that
they are unwilling to abandon the habit, did
not fear that temperance societies were about
to bring their practice into disrepute, they would
not endeavor to check their progress. Why
oppose them at all, if they regard them as en-
tirely impotent and harmless ? Therefore, op-
position to temperance societies only proves
more strongly their adaptation to compass the
end for which they are established. That plan
of reform that meets with no opposition from
the vicious and profligate, is likely to originate
in an impure source, and will have little effi-
ciency. But that which arrays against itself
the whole strength of the misguided world, is
most apt to emanate from pure principles, and
will be in no danger of being overturned. This
problem is solved in the existence of Christian-
ity ; no religion has ever met with such power-

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 59

ful and persevering opposition ; yet it prevails,
and will prevail until it regenerates the world.

" Let us next consider the aid which tempe-
rance societies do and will receive.

•' 1st. They receive and will receive the aid of
all true patriots. When he who loves his
country looks abroad over his native land, and
sees the desolating effects of intemperance in
every direction ; when he views hospitals and
poor-houses filled with drunkards; when, by
computation, he ascertains the expense of ar-
dent spirit used in the United States, the time
lost in drinking, and losses and expenses other-
wise incurred, would pay the national debt, sup-
port besides the government of the United
States, and that of every other State in the
Union; on the mere principle of economy, will
he not endeavor to root out this mighty evil?
Certainly he will, and more especially when he
perceives that the expulsion of ardent spirits,
besides freeing his countrymen from many
enormous evils, will render them more con-
tented, more wealthy, and more reputable
Therefore, temperance combinations will re-
ceive the aid of all genuine patriots: and if they
have their influence, they must prevail; for
■^UY patriots are many, and they are mighty.

GO SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

" 2d. They will obtain the aid of the tempe-
rate. When the temperate man contemplates
the drunkards who surround him, and recollects
that they were once as sober as himself, and
once thought as he does now, that they would
never become sots, but, by habitual moderate
drinking, were at length drawn into the vortex
of dissipation ; when he seriously reflects that
he occupies the same grade in which they stood
but a few years since, and that if he persist he
will be inevitably conducted to the same end,
and, in all probability, his posterity after him;
will he not turn while there is hope, and resolve
to banish spirits from his house? Certainly he
will. Therefore, these societies will be sus-
tained by the temperate. If so, they must flou-
rish ; for by the temperate, drunkards are often
supported, on them they frequently sponge, and
from their number their ranks, thinned by
death, m.ust be supplied; for they do not com-
monly live out half their days. Therefore, if
the temperate and the moderate drinkers adopt
the plan of entire abstinence, the whole race of
tipplers will soon be extinct.

" 3. Temperance associations do and will re-
ceive the aid of all respectable females. Ladies

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 61

(for none others deserve the name) always have
been temperate, and always will ie. Intempe-
rance they instinctively abhor, "'tis object of
their implacable disgust." All the unkindness
and cruelty of every other sort which they have
suffered from our sex, will not equal the amount
of abuse and suffering which has been wantonly
heaped upon them by drunken fathers, drunken
brothers, drunken sons — but worst of all, and
"nature's foulest blot" — by drunken husbands!
On this account they do, they will, they must
lend their aid to the temperance cause. It
would be idle presumption to conjecture other-
wise. Whoever has carefully observed the in-
fluence of lovely woman, must confess that the
society which has her warm patronage must
live, must flourish,

"4. The temperance reform does and will re-
ceive the assistance of Christians. He who
wishes to see the church flourish, and at the
same time sees that nothing removes men far-
ther from religion than drunkenness, must give
his influence to temperance societies ; and es-
pecially when, in the Bible, his law-book, he
sees drunkenness enumerated in every black
catalogue of crimes, and condemned almost on

C

C2 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

every page. And will a million or more Chris-
tians in the United States add no weight to the
cause of temperance?

" 5th. Temperance societies receive the aid of
Heaven. It is evident that Heaven approves or
disapproves of temperance associations. Hea-
ven approves of temperance; therefore, cannot
disapprove of the most effectual means of pro-
moting it. If God does not approve of the
temperance league, then he approves of the
conspiracy against it. Would, then, any one
assume the responsibility of saying that the
Lord of hosts is on the side of those who deride
and decry the temperance cause ? To this mo-
mentous affair, be assured, the Lord God Al-
mighty is not indifferent; he has stretched out
his arm, and he will protect the societies formed
for the express purpose of subduing contempt
of his authority, and giving efficacy to his own
laws; and what he defends must prosper.

"Let us now take a hasty survey of what tem-
perance societies have already done. This is
another method by which we may determine
whether or not they are able to accomplish their
design. They have already drawn into their
circle the honorable men and leading characters

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 63

of our nation. Statesmen have declared intem-
perance to be destructive to the best interests
of the state. Physicians have pronounced it to
be injurious to health, and have recommended
temperance societies as the best remedy for the
alarming evil. Against it ministers have lifted
up their voice, and opposed to it all their sanc-
tity. Against it distinguished lawyers have
plead, and against it venerable judges have
passed sentence. Eloquent editors have writ-
ten against it; and the press, which is a pow-
erful engine in governing the minds of the
people, is generally employed in the cause
of temperance. Merchants have tapped their
hogsheads, and committed their contents to the
bowels of the earth. Distillers have uncapped
their stills. In whole villages in the United
States not a gallon is to be found. Less spirits
by one third are now consumed in the United
States than were before the formation of these
societies. They have been established in eve-
ry State in the Union. They have reached the
West India Islands. They have penetrated to
the fur traders of the north-west. Their light
has beamed on Europe; in Great Britain, Ire-
land alone numbers more than one hundred

64 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

societies. They are also extending their influ-
ence over England and Scotland. The United
States has enrolled more than a thousand, and
more than a hundred thousand members. How
long have temperance societies been engaged
in accomplishing this mighty work? A hun-
dred years ? No ! not fifty, not even ten. The
whole has been done in the short space of four
or five years ! If temperance societies have
effected so much in their infancy, what will they
not do when they have reached their maturity ?"

CHAPTER VI.

While spending his vacation in South Caro-
lina, one day, when engaged in reading, medita-
tion, and prayer, in a lonely retreat in the
woods, one of his father's colored boys came to
him. After conversing with him, and praying
for him, he dismissed him, feeling a very strong
desire that he might be converted, and be pre-
pared to go as a missionary to Africa. Thence-
forward for sable Africa, and all her sable de-
scendents, he felt a bleeding concern. Every
colored man he met had a share in his sympa-
thies. Every where was he regarded as the
warm friend of Africans.

His spring vacation having nearly elapsed,
after devoutly looking up to heaven for pro-
tection on his journey, he turned his face to-
wards Knoxville. To beguile the tediousness
of the way, as well as to exert a salutary influ-
ence wherever he was, we find him at one time
distributing tracts, with appropriate remarks ;

at another time engaged in pious conversation

6+

66 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

with an elderly lady, at whose house he spent
an evening. On another occasion privately he
rebukes the driver of the stage in which he
travelled, for profane swearing ; and having
shown him the third commandment, strongly
urges him to blaspheme no more. Having
arrived at Knoxville, he continued to prosecute
the studies of the junior class, with the addition
of the Hebrew language. About this time, his
heart began to pant for the pleasures and perils
of a mission in a foreign land. For the salva-
tion of pagans, he felt a strong solicitude. To
their sorrowful condition, his heart turned
whenever he bowed before the mercy-seat.
His thoughts, by night and by day, were spread
over the wild forests of America, as the moral
deserts of Asia, Africa, and the isles. He knew
that he had a father, a mother, a grandmother,
and a sister at home, whose powerful sympa-
thies would, if possible, bind him there. His
heart was indeed theirs ; but he had given it
to One, whose right was paramount to theirs.
It belonged, without reserve, to Him who issued
the command: "Go ye into all the world, and
preach the gospel to every creature." Day by
day, he renewed his purpose to be the Lord's

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 67

alone. His heart told him that his home would
be where the Lord would send him. To him,
all climes and regions would be alike, provided
the gracious presence of God attended him
there. With such emotions as warmed the
heart of the psalmist, he could now say, "Whom
have I in heaven but thee, and there is none
upon earth that I desire beside thee." With
his eye and his heart fixed on the wretched
abodes of degraded idolators, he sought the
counsel of Heaven. Hoping at length, that God
would send him far off to the gentiles, he is
solicitous to acquire every qualification, requi-
site to make him an enlightened, zealous, and
successful missionary. With this view, he
commenced the study of the Hebrew language,
that he might more thoroughly understand the
truths of revelation, more entirely enter into
their spirit; and above all, be prepared, if it
were the will of Heaven, to translate them into
a foreign language. Under the influence of
such a motive, it need not be said, that he gave
his whole heart to this new and interesting
study.

Already in his estimation the Bible was a
venerable book ; but his heart dilates v/ith an

C3 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

unusual veneration, when he views it in its own
simple attire, through which its native majesty
best appears. Then it was, that he understood
the w^hole force of those strong expressions, in
relation to its value : "It is better than gold,
yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than
honey and the honey-comb."

The spirit of Missions, which now began to
expand his bosom, induced him to view with
compassion the condition of the colored people
of Knoxville. They had a Sabbath school, con-
ducted by one of themselves. They very much
needed the aid and superintendence of a pru-
dent, skilful, and persevering instructer.

Having previously learned that there was no
lav/ of the land prohibiting the instruction of
colored people in Tennessee, and having ob-
tained the consent of the superintendent of the
Sabbath school in which he had for some time
acted as a teacher, he clicerfully entered on the
self-denying employment of instructing and ma-
naging the African School. Another perhaps
would have asked. Will not my connection Avith
the African School sink me in the estimation of
others? But public opinion had no influencs
over his decisions when determining what should

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 69

be done or what should not be done. In a let-
ter from Carolina, even his father lifted up a
warning voice and entreated him to beware !
But he had taken his stand. He was deter-
mined to obey God rather than man. To his
compassionate heart, his new employment was
entirely congenial. His first appearance in the
African Sabbath School convinced him that he
had a hearty welcome there. Many a grateful
glance^ and many a countenance expanded al-
most to a smile, assured him of a warm recep-
tion there. The hymns which he sung, the
prayers which he offerel, i he affecting exhorta-
tions which he delivered, all gave him access to
their hearts, and with one accord they pro-
nounced him the friend of the black man. On
every returning Sabbath he shared more of
their confidence, and many a token of their
respect and affectionate regard did they give
him. In their esteem and improvement he had
an ample compensation for the contemptuous
smile of the petty coxcomb. In many an Afri-
can bosom in Tennessee, his humble, compas-
sionate, and dignified deportment in the Sabbath
school, is remembered still; yea, such an im-
pression has it made on many hearts, that it will
never be forgotten while memory lasts.

70 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

About this time, our young brother was assail-
ed by a temptation which much harassed and
perplexed him. When meditating one day on
the fall of man, it occurred to him that God
could have prevented it: — if he could have pre-
vented it, he ought to have done it. Then the
query arose, since he did not prevent it, how
could he be just in punishing that which he
ought to have prevented 7 This view and the
query arising out of it, he regarded as his ow^n ;
and charged himself with downright rebellion
against God. Deeply did he mourn, because
he could not at once repel a cavil, so unjust to
God, and so painful to himself And more bit-
terly did he lament that it had ever found its
way into his mind. When fully persuaded that
he abhorred the rebellious thought, and loathed
himself for having entertained it for one mo-
ment, he was still more agitated by the fear,
that the blasphemous vagary which had given
him so much torture, was an alarming indica-
tion of approaching insanity. This fear Avas
more than doubled by the recollection of a case
of derangement, which he had not long before
witnessed. In the midst of these tormenting
anxieties, he betook himself to fasting and

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 71

prayer. Peace returned, and the tempter fled.
This stratagem of Satan put him on his guard;
when assaulted the next time, he raised the
shield of faith, whereby he was able to quench
all the fiery darts of the wicked. At the time
of this sharp conflict, Jefferson thought he stood
alone ; but he afterwards learned, that such
trials often befel the most devoted servants of
God.

In this painful exercise we see a Christian in-
deed, one who abhorred the thought of doing for
a moment the leastinjustice to God. Such a man,
we may readily believe, would take a deep inter-
est in every thing that relates to the welfare of
the church and the glory of his Redeemer.
The heart of such a man would of course bleed at
the sight of dissensions among Christian breth-
ren. Being himself taught of God to love the
brethren, he would naturally, and indeed neces-
sarily, conclude that all genuine disciples of
Christ loved each other. He remembered well
who had said, "hereby shall all men know that
you are my disciples, when you have love one
to another." With these sentiments warm in
his heart, he viewed almost with agony the jea-
lousies and animosities that subsisted between

72 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

two churches of the same denomination, located
in the same village. To him it appeared to be
incomprehensible, that those who loved the same
Saviour, entertained the same hope, and expected
to meet in the same heaven, should fall out by
the way. To reconcile Christians to each other,
he therefore thought would be no difficult task.
With all the promptitude of charity, with all
the dexterity of prudence, with all the patience
of perseverance, he formed and prosecuted the
design of conciliating the contending parties.
In this project of charity, he associated with
himself a young brother, to whom he imparted
his own views, and whose heart beat in unison
with his own. They called to their aid the
lights of reason and the charity of the gospel ;
and at a stated hour they asked counsel of God,
and implored the love4ns])iring Spirit of Hea-
ven to descend on the jarring churches and heal
their strife. Pearson, having had the counsel of
a brother, and having looked to Heaven for
direction, next makes known his views and
wishes to the pastors of the churches ; and
afterwards to their leading members. This is
done with all the winning modesty of a young,
inexperienced Christian; yet with all the gra-

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 73

vity and firmness of mature age. He is not
regarded as a forward intruder; his views and
feelings are treated with respect. Kind and
encouraging assurances are given him, on both
sides. Harmony he hopes will be restored.
He next matures his plans of union. Their
wisdom and beneficial tendency are not called in
question. But our young brother now learns,
that the spirit of the world was not entirely
cast out of the Church. That there are num-
bers connected with it who have not learned to
be 'kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiv-
ing one another even as God for Christ's sake
hath forgiven us.'

Having heard about this time a lecture on
the parable of the tares, he had fresh evidence,
every week, that they grew abundantly in the
Church, and he was farther convinced that to
them might be ascribed most of the divisions of
the Church, which fell under his observatioa.
This was indeed disheartening ; but stillpie per-
severed. He had, it is true, gained over many
Christian hearts to hi.s scheme of union : but they
were peacemakers ; and by a fear of increasing
division, they yielded, for the present, to tlie opi-
nion of those, whose business in the Church is

74 SOUTHERN CIIRI8TIAN.

to perpetuate discord. Our peaceful brother
had fully embraced the opinion that religion
would languish until peace was restored be-
tween the discordant churches, and that a revi-
val of genuine godliness could not be expected
before they agreed on some plan of union.
Hence, in hope, he believed against hope, and
was not weary in his labor of love, though diffi-
culties increased at every step. Though his
plans were in a great measure abortive, yet
they led him into a more profound acquaintance
with human nature; served above all to awaken
his own zeal for the glory of his Redeemer and
the purity of the Church. They indeed dimi-
nished the scope of that charity which "think-
eth no evil" ; but they enlarged the compass of
that charity which "suifereth long and is kind;
which endureth all things ; and likewise hopeth
all things."

Having introduced family worship in the
house at which he boarded, and having associ-
atedjprayer with all his other employments, and
believing that all our lawful employments are
sanctified by the word of God and prayer, he
next proposes to the literary society of which
he was a member, to open its several meetings

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 75

by devoutly imploring- tlie benediction of Hea-
ven. The resolution, which he offered on this
subject, did not pass ; he therefore modestly
requested a dismission. After some hesitancy,
a dismission was granted, upon the condition
of his delivering a valedictory address.

With this condition he cheerfully complied,
because it aff'orded him an opportunity of urg-
ing and persuading the members of the society
to embrace the gospel as the basis on which to
found their faith, their hope, their morals, and
their comfort.

This withdrawal from the literary society
was not a hasty act ; for a considerable time it
had occupied his thoughts, and he had repeat-
edly sought direction from Heaven. "Having
been (says he in his journal) for some time in
doubt whether it was ray duty to remain in
connection with the society, I at length con-
cluded to determine it by a kind of lot, such as
this: that if it were the Lord's will that I
should remain, that he would cause such a cir-
cumstance to take place ; but if not, that he
would prevent its occurrence. This method I
had recently employed in a doubtful case, and
thought that I was directed aright; and I also

76 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN,

humbly hope that in the last instance I was
led to adopt the proper course." On this me-
thod of seeking the guidance of Heaven he
makes the following comment: " I am not pre-
pared to say that this manner of trying to dis-
cover a duty is perfectly right. It certainly is
not, where the duty is already plain, or can be
discovered by the individual in the Bible*. But
I think where a person is really in doubt about
what he ought to do, and actually wishes to dis-
cover the will of the Lord in order to do it,
and will thus fix upon some event uncertain to
him, and as apt to take place as not, and will
pray earnestly and in faith to be directed aright,
that he will he directed aright. This is acting
somewhat similar to the apostles in casting lots
between Joseph and Matthias."

Having lately read a treatise on diet, and
having observed that his mind was more vigo-
rous after certain kinds of food, he began to
make experiments, in order to ascertain what
kind of nutriment would be most congenial to
mental improvement. With regard to the li-
quids connected with his diet, he observed that
coffee and tea were stimulants, milk a sedative,
and that water held a kind of neutral rank be-

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 77

tvveen the two. To decide this matter he ap.
peals to Heaven by prayer and ' the casting of
a lot' In his Journal, (Aug. 1st, 1831,) he
makes this record: "Endeavored to discover
whether it was the will of the Lord, or not,
that I should drink only water for breakfast
and supper; and tried it for each, by prayer and
dropping a piece of money. At each trial, the
money lay with that side up which I had pro-
posed should indicate his will that I should
drink water at those meals." After the experi-
ment of one week, our self-denying Christian
began to feel some loss of animal spirits, and
began to call in question the propriety of the
course he had adopted. To settle the doubt, he
has ao[ain recourse to ' lot' ; and of this final tri-
al thus speaks: "Endeavored again to discover
the will of God respecting my diet, and request-
ed that the matter might be finally decided, and
that I might do that which would most tend to
promote my health, the good of my soul, the
salvation of the souls of others, and the Re-
deemer's glory and cause; and that I might
delight to do his will, whatever it might be.
Whereupon, as before, I tried whether it was
the will of the Lord to release me entirely

79 SOUTHERN C H H I S T I A N .

from the obligation untlcr which I felt myself
to drink water at breakfast and supper. From
the piece of money thrown up I received the
answer, No! Again I tried the question, Am
I to confine myself constantly to this course?
Answer, No ! Again tried ; and requested that
the matter might be put entirely to rest, and
that I should submit to his will either way ;
that I should drink temperately of coffee or tea,
or any other liquid set before me, ardent spirits
excepted, or whether I should drink water only
for breakfast and supper. Received the answer
Yes, for drinking temperately of whatever came
before me, spirituous liquors excepted.

Thus ended this dubious affair, and our young
Christian, taught by experience,resorted to such
a doubtful expedient no more. His last reflec-
tions on this subject, are these : " I am begin-
ning to doubt the propriety of this method of
proceeding; but I am disposed to think, that
in all cases tliat are really perplexing, a Chris-
tian may obtain direction from Heaven, if
sought in the right way. I believe that no
Christian will often go wrong, if he will pray,
read the Bible, and follow the dictates of an
enlightened conscience." With rccrard to the

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 79

whole transaction he afterwards has these re-
marks : " I might have discovered my duty in
relation to my diet, without resorting to any
other means than reading the word of God,
with prayer. My time would, no doubt, have
been better spent in endeavoring to obtain
suitable food for my soul." This whole affair
presents our young brother in the attitude of a
conscientious Christian, whose " failings leaned
to virtue's side." It also exhibits a candor
which could acknowledge, and a resolution
which could reform an error.

Amidst these austerities, in which our young
brother seems almost an anchorite, we would
be ready to conclude, that his heart was beyond
the reach of female attraction. It was indeed
strongly guarded ; but it had within emotions,
which female delicacy, and meekness, and piety
could stir. As a student his intercourse with
young females was highly exemplary. His
course was prescribed, and from it no female
charms could draw him. But his heart often
reminded him, that he could not resist those
attractions always. The following ode written
in Miss R.'s album may be regarded as a gpeci-

80 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

men of his taste and the natural bias of a heart
that female worth could captivate :

Daughter of Time, thou hast been made

By the Almighty hand :
Here thou wilt stay till Death has laid

Thee with the silent band.

Thy soul will then pass to a state

Of endless bliss or woe ;
Know, this or that will be the fate

To which thou hast to go.

Altho' thy birth is from on high,

Yet he who caused our fall
Would charm thee from thy native sky

To sin's enticing thrall.

But thou hast chosen the good part

To sit at Jesus' feet ;
And learn of him, with humble heart,

Temptations how to meet.

Repent each day of evil deeds,

Complete your heavenly race.
Root out by prayer all noxious weeds

That choke the seeds of grace.

Renounce all false moralit}''.

Thyself on Jesus roll,
Love him with every faculty

Of body, heart, and soul.

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN, 61

Devote thyself unto the Lord

With all thou an and hast,
And live by faith ujxm his word,

And hope for heaven at last.

May God, the Father and the Son

' And Spirit of all grace, '
The mighty Three combined in one,

Smile ever on thy face.

About the commencement of autumn he had
a very affecting view of the poverty and empti-
ness of all his best deeds. This discovery was
rendered more painful by the apprehension that
he had run into some of the excesses of super-
stition, and had placed too much reliance on his
supposed good works. Himself now and his
good deeds too he renounces with abhorrence,
that he may rely exclusively on Christ crucified,
for pardon and justification. In this temper he
wrote the following stanzas in Miss T.'s album:

Tho' thrones and kingdoms, states and powers,
And all the world, were justly ours,
And we should freely them bestow
To feed and clothe and warm the poor ;
Yet, we must lean on Jesus.

Tho' we should pray from day to day,
in sorrow and repentance stay,

82 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

On Sabbath at the church be found,
And gladly hear the gospel sound ;
Still we must lean on Jesus.

Tho' we forgive and pray for foes,
Relieve their wants, grieve for their woes ;
Tho' friend and foe and all should share
Our love, and sympathy, and care ;
Still we must lean on Jesus.

Tho' we should keep all the commands.
And preach the gospel to all lands,
We must not rest upon our deeds,
For they indeed are broken reeds ;
And we must lean on Jesus.

Altho' our bodies may be burn'd,
Without the love of Jesus learn'd,
We shall not see his face in peace;
The flames of torture will not cease,
Unless we lean on Jesus.

May Jesus give us crowns of gold.
With kingdoms, bliss, and joys untold :
Then we shall ever sing the song
* The glory doth to thee belong ;'
And still will lean on Jesus.

Having received a letter from the Rev. M.
Dickson, his beloved pastor, requesting him to
be at the meeting of the Presbytery of South
Carolina, in order to put himself under its care

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN

83

in reference to his preparation for the ministry, —
having learned that there were several revivals
in his native State, — and being informed also
that a camp-meeting was appointed at Nazareth,
— Jefferson, towards the close of September, be-
came exceedingly anxious to return home.
But his solicitude places him in a most painful
dilemma. On the one side, the commencement
in college is near; and on the other, the time of
the meeting of Presbytery is at hand. If he
wait for the commencement, he cannot attend
the Presbytery ; if he meet the Presbytery, he
must unavoidably be absent at commencement.
He prays earnestly for direction. He at length
concludes that it his duty to return immediately
to Carolina. There is now, in his view, but one
difficulty in the way : he has not consulted th-e
faculty, nor yet obtained leave of absence.
With unusual earnestness he makes application
to the president, and receives a prompt denial.
After passing a melancholy day, he determines
to renew his application. He writes a respect-
ful petition, which was presented the next day
to the president, together with his letter from
Mr. Dickson, and a newspaper containing ac-
counts of revivals in Caroliuci. The papers

84 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

were returned with a positive refusal, and an
intimation, that our zealous Christian •* was run-
ning into enthusiasm, and in danger of heing
entangled in an error that would lead him far
astray." To this touching insinuation, which
entered his heart like a dagger, he meekly re-
plies, *' Perhaps this is the fact." He was
aware that he did not fully know himself; and
he always had the most profound respect for
the experience-taught wisdom of age. He
cheerfully submits. He regards the president
of the college, for the present, as occupying the
place of a father; and feels bound to obey.
All his strong sensibilities he sacrifices at the
shrine of duty ; and waits patiently for the close
of the session. The ultimate decision of the
president he receive as an indication of the will
of Heaven : and his mind and heart |are now
turned intensely to the preparation of a speech,
to be delivered at the exhibition, on Divine
Revelation. Most importunately does he pray«
that it may be made a blessing to many. In his
heart he feels, that if his presence at commence-
ment can be a spiritual benefit to any, he can
cheerfully forego the advantages and pleasures
of attending the meeting of Presbytery. Mr.

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 85

Pearson did indeed submit patiently to the will
of the faculty, respecting his continuing in
Knoxville.to the close of the session; but he
now begins to pant for a greater degree of
liberty. Without disputing the right of the
faculty to detain him, or without passing a
shadow of a censure on its decision in his case,
he forms the resolution to leave college, and
finally bid adieu to Tennessee. His unbound
spirit could not brook the imprisonment of a
literary institution. So spiritual had he become,
so much was his heart drawn towards heaven,
that he had no longer any relish for studies
that were not directly connected with the science
of salvation. After commencement he returns
home, with the intention of pursuing such a
literary course, as would in his opinion most
directly fit him for usefulness as a herald of the
cross. The only apology that he offered for
this procedure was, that he was entirely indif-
ferent about the honor which comethfrom men,
that his only care would henceforth be to be
thoroughly qualified to preach the fulness of
the blessing of the gospel of Christ.

If in this the devotees of literature will say
he erred, notwithstanding every pious heart will

8

86 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

readily pardon an error, that seemed to flow
directly from entire devotedness to God. If in
the sight of God, the supreme judge of the
heart, his departure from a regular collegiate
course was not an offence, but an act that
merited his high approval, notwithstanding,
being a rare case, it deserves rather to be ad-
mired than imitated.

The advocate of a learned ministry he always
was. On this subject, his journal presents the
following observations, soon after his return to
Carolina : — " If it was necessary for the i\ postles
to follow the Saviour three years, who was the
most perfect teacher who ever appeared on
earth, in order to learn his doctrines, how much
more is it now necessary to devote several years
to divine study, before we assume the office of
a minister, since we have not the advantajje of
being with the Saviour in person ! If the gift
of tongues was necessary for the Apostles, it is
also necessary for us; therefore we should
spend sufficient time to learn the different
tongues, which will be most useful, — unless we
can obtain them miraculously, as the Apostles
did, which is not to be expected now."

CHAPTER VII.

On Thursday, the 13th of October, he left
Knoxville in the stage, and turned his face
homeward. When he arrived at Newport, the
stage running to Ashville was gone. Without
much hesitation, he came to the conclusion to
pursue his journey on foot. Friday and Satur-
day he moved forward distributing tracts as he
proceeded, until his whole stock was spent. At
Ashville, he sought in vain for a recruit. How
much was his heart afflicted when he parted
with the last of these little companions of his
way ! And how much was he disappointed,
when he learned that he could not at Ashville
obtain a fresh supply ! Now he concludes that
by some other method he must do something to
advance the spiritual welfare of every one
whom he meets on his way. The Sabbath rises
with its sweet beams on our weary traveller;
and on the third day invites him to rest. He
remembered the Sabbath day, and kept it holy.
Of this fact we have in his journal only this

S8 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

simple record : — " Rested, — and felt quite thank-
ful for the Sabbath/' On that day he was among
strangers when the Sabbath found him ; but he
was not alone, for the Lord of the Sabbath met
him there. On Tuesday he arrives at home.
Home is now doubly dear to him for two rea-
sons : distilled poison appears no more on his
father's sideboard; and^his sister having lately
obtained a hope and made a profession of re-
ligion, he now regards the whole family in the
delightful condition of that of Bethany, of which
it was said, " Jesus loved Mary, and Martha, and
Lazarus."

He looks around on his beloved home, and
asks what more can be done to make it the
charming residence of the Friend of sinners.
His father's family he trusts is now a part of
the household of faith ; but the servants he fears
have no inheritance among them that are sanc-
tified. His compassion bleeds for their sorrow-
ful condition *' without God and without hope
in the world." He finds them in " darkness in
the region and shadow of death." Immediately
he devises and steadily pursues a plan of in-
struction. The colored people are regularly
gathered around the family altar. While a

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 89

chapter is deliberately and devoutly read and
sometimes explained, all the children capable
of comprehending any part of it stand arranged
in a circle about him, giving a profound atten-
tion. After the prayer, during which they de-
voutly kneeled, they rose in their several places,
and answered questions proposed from the
chapter just read and explained. Custom soon
made this method of instruction delightful ; and
their improvement was soon apparent to all.
A minister of the gospel, who witnessed the
efficacy of this scheme of instruction after it
had been in operation for one year, was aston-
ished at the readiness and judgment with which
the proposed questions were answered. Such
profound attention, such orderly deportment,
he had never before seen among the same num-
ber of children of any family. Such is the
power of manner ! An affectionate manner,
proceeding from a feeling heart, will usually
gain the hearts of children. Over those little
hearts Jefferson seemed to have complete com-
mand, around the family altar.

In his return from Knoxville, Jefferson had,
by losing an opportunity of going in the stage,
saved about ten dollars. He asks his father, if

90 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

he will give him the liberty of appropriating
that sum to any object he pleases. His father
readily consents ; he in a few days sends it to
Charleston to be laid out in tracts, for distribu-
tion in his own district.

To his pastor, he next submits the plan of
reading religious news to those persons who
came with the children who attended the Sab-
bath school. The Sabbath school was carried
on in the church, before the morning service
commenced ; and being in a country place, the
parents and other members of the family came
with the children. For such as were necessarily
present, and Avere not immediately employed in
the Sabbath school, he hopes by the plan sug-
gested, to furnish profitable entertainment.
The scheme was admirable ; and were there
Sabbath schools connected with all our country
churches, and this plan appended to them, what
an amount of good might be done ! The peo-
ple thus becoming acquainted with the state and
prospects of the churches, which are flourish-
ing like the palm-tree and growing like the
cedar of Lebanon, would feel a generous emu-
lation kindling in their hearts. Becoming
familiar with the benevolent operations of this

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 91

age of benevolence, their hearts would expand
in a noble charity, and the benediction of the
great philanthropist, 'Blessed are the merciful,
for they shall obtain mercy,' would move and
meet their whole souls.

There is another class of hearers who fre-
quent our churches, which .TefTerson supposed
was too much neglected. The descendants of
Africa always occupied a tender place in his
heart wherever he found them ; but it was natu-
ral that he should feel a peculiar solicitude for
those of his own neighborhood, among whom
he had dwelt from his birth. He next proposes
to his reverend pastor to furnish them with some
appropriate instruction. To him it appeared,
that, in most of Presbyterian churches in the
South, they seemed to look on professed Chris-
tians with an eye that would say, ' No man car-
eth for my soul.' In his opinion, to overcome
their indifference, it was necessary to conquer
our own. He firmly believed that they would
never feel an interest in us, until we felt and
manifested a deep interest in them. With his
views his reverend friend at once concurred.
At a convenient hour the colored people assem-
bled, and heard the doctrines and precepts of the

92 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

gospel from one Avhom they had known from
his youth. The first ingredient in his familiar
addresses was compassion, the second simpli-
city. By the latter, he approached their minds ;
be the former, he drew near their hearts. His
method of instruction taught them that Presby-
terians have hearts which can melt in commisse-
ration over the black man. Him they always
loved. His memory will ever live in their
hearts. The mention of his name still expands
many a dark bosom; and many a falling tear
tells how much he was loved.

At Nazareth the black man is treated as a
man still ; and he is glad when they say to him,
"Come, let us go to the house of the Lord."
Mr. Pearson's maxim no doubt is true : "Treat
them as immortals, and they will treat you as
immortals." No one was ever farther removed
than he from that reckless fanaticism that seeks
the emancipation of the African at the risk of
his ruin ; but no one ever more ardently desired
to bestow on him tlie liberty of the gospel, and
make him 'Christ's free man.'

Soon after his return to his native state, wc
find him diligently employed in the prosecution
of his studies. To the daily perusal of the Bi-

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 93

ble in the original languages, he now adds
natural and moral philosophy, and theology.
Andto his former devotional exercises he now
adds heavenly contemplation at the hour of twi-
light. Thus was he obviously growing in grace
and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour
Jesus Christ,

His theological studies he commenced under
the direction of the Rev. M. Dickson, who resid-
ed about one mile from his father's house. At
the urgent request of many friends, and with
the approbation of his parents and pastor, he re-
solves to spend one Sabbath in each month in the
vacant church of Pacolet, to aid in their religious
exercises. In an extract from his diary of Feb.
1832, we may distinctly learn the manner in
which his time is spent. "Commenced a plan
of study, of which I trust the Lord will ap-
prove ; and in which, I hope, he will enable me
to persevere. But if the method be agreeable
to his will, may all the honor redound to him-
self, who inclined me to adopt it.

"The plan is this t when I rise in the morn-
ing, first address the throne of grace, read a
Greek Harmony of the Gospels, first translate
a verse, then endeavor, by the aid of the Spirit,

94 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

to understand and improve it to my spiritual
benefit. Then read the Notes at the end of
the Harmony, by examining the verses quoted
endeavor to discover the harmony of the gos-
pels, and improve in every way possible; this
exercise to be continued until breakfast, Then
read one hour in Natural Philosophy. The
next hour to be spent in work, or some corpo-
ral exercise equivalent. Next read Hebrew,
(two hours,) both critically and practically.
Then address the throne of grace ; after which
ten or fifteen minutes will be spent in the con-
sideration of some duty, which I am inclined to
think I may be required to perform. For ex-
ample, should I become a missionary? or what
is and what is not a violation of the Sabbath ?
In all such queries seeking divine teaching, as
the only method of reaching a satisfactory re-
sult. After this, four hours are to be taken up
in reading some system of theology. (If din-
ner consume a part of this time, the time thus
lost will be added to the four hours to make up
the complement.) Then will follow another
hour of bodily exercise. After which various
other matters will be attended to, as may be
most suitable and convenient, such as reading

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 95

news, tracts, poetry, history, &c., or sometimes
writing; all winding up with family prayers,
after which the black children are to be ques-
tioned and instructed on the chapter read. Be-
fore lying down, the throne of grace is again to
be addressed ; and fifteen minutes to be em-
ployed in heavenly contemplation, looking for
divine assistance therein. Eight hours will be
allowed for sleep. Sun up, the latest hour for
rising,

"On Tuesdays and Saturdays, by agreement
with Mr. Dickson, I repair to his study to pass
an examination, receive instruction, consult
commentaries or works on theology. Then
return home in time to commence my four
hours' study of theology, unless necessarily
detained. The Sabbath is to be devoted sa-
credly to the exercises peculiarly belonging to
it. Before the public exercises of the church,
the Union Questions may be studied. After
coming from church, I will go to the young
men's prayer meeting ; the rest of the evening
to be spent in various religious exercises. The
third Sabbath of every month will probably be
spent at Pacolet. And likely a part of the
Saturday before and Monday after will be con-

96 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

sumed in going and returning, unless in pecu-
liar circumstances I can be convinced it is my
duty to go and return on the Lord's day. But
may the Lord of the Sabbath direct me in this
matter, and never suffer me to violate the Sab-
bath day ! The first Monday in every month
will, if the Lord permit, be usually employed
at the court-house, in distributing tracts. Occa-
sionally, also, other public days will be devoted
to the same purpose. In this business, I will
perhaps, at times, employ a substitute." These
regulations he dismisses with the following de-
vout reflections : "May the Lord enable me to
improve the time as it passes, and spend all to
his glory. The above, with any other improve-
ments that may be added, is the manner in
which I hope the Lord will strengthen me to
spend my time ; except it should please Him to
prevent it by sickness or some other providen-
tial interference. May He give me health, and
make me grateful for it ; and incline me to im-
prove it to his glory. May He dispose me so to
act, as not to need chastisement to excite nie to
do my duty. But when He sees it best for me,
may He give rac faith and patience to bear it as
a disciple of the 'man of sorrows': I ask it in
the name of Jesus. Amen."

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 97

What, you may ask, was it that gave so
much value to time in his estimation? It was,
wc may say without doubt, its connection with
eternity. As a proof of this, and as a speci-
men of the manner in which he closed the day,
take the following contemplation, — dated Tues-
day evening, Feb. 28th, 1832. "Conceive, O
my Soul, if thou canst, the length of eternity !
Let a particle of dust and a drop of water
stand each for 999,000 millions of centuries.
Let that immense number of centuries be mul-
tiplied by every particle of dust in the whole
globe. Let that product be multiplied by every
drop of water, each drop representing 999,000
millions of centuries. Double this number;
and afterwards multiply it by itself, and you
will produce an overwhelming number. One
which the power of calculation cannot reach ;
one which no language on earth can express.
But will this be eternity? No! It will not be
as much, in comparison with eternity, as the
smallest particle of dust is in comparison with
the whole globe ; — but infinitely less. For
after this flux of centuries, there would remain
an eternity still undiminished, ever-during.
And, I can add, this description of the length

9

93 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

of eternity is infinitely fainter, in comparison
with what it really is, than the light of a candle
is fainter than the light of the sun. To ease
the burden of conception, and sum up the
whole : eternity is that which has no beginning,
and no end!! O! eternity! eternity!! The
amount of eternal happiness how vast ! ! of eter-
nal misery how great the sum ! ! ! Oh ! my Soul !
my Soul! may you escape the one, and enjoy
the other, through the riches of grace in Christ
Jesus my Lord ! Amen."

This gigantic conception of eternity was
constantly blended with every recollection of
God, of himself, of immortals around him. It
attended him in the discharge of every duty ;
it was mingled with every motive; it prompted
to every act. I had almost said, it appeared in
every step ; — it was visible in every feature.

He who had such an enlarged and enlarging
view of eternity could never be idle. To such
a man, tliree score years and ten to labor for
eternity appeared a point indeed. Our young
Christian needed no premonition from Heaven
that his transient stay on earth ^\;ould little ex-
ceed the third of that short account, to awaken
every power and stir eycry nerve in the work

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 99

of the Lord, in the weighty concerns of eternity.
In his judgment, cleared by the light of immor-
tality, a hundred, nay a thousand years, was a
contracted span compared with ever-during
eternity.

On the third Sabbath, as contemplated, we
find him at the Pacolet church. After the cus-
tomary previous exercises, he read a sermon,
on "The way to bliss." After which, (to use
his own language,) "I strongly recommended
Sabbath schools. At the close of the religious
exercises, I presented a subscription paper for
the purpose of raising a Sabbath school library ;
I was delighted and encouraged when the paper
was returned to me with the amount of fifteen
dollars subscribed. My impression was that the
Lord had opened their hearts ; as the church is
small, the people in moderate circumstances, and
not trained to liberality. Therefore, I found my
unhumbled heart ready to swell with pride, on ac-
count of what was done. I instantly prayed, that
I might, with disgust, reject all praise bestowed
on myself, and earnestly desire it all to be given
to the Lord."

Within a month, the money for the Sabbath
School library is collected, and sent with a let-

100 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

ter written by Mr. Pearson to the agent of the
Sabbath School Union of Charleston; plead-
ing that the Sabbath School at Pacolet might
be regarded as an auxiliary to tlie Sabbath
School Union, on the easiest terms possible,
in order that books might be received at the
usual discount allowed to auxiliaries. Also
entreating that every thing that could be spared
would be sent gratis, — especially pictures, if any
such were on hand, illustrating Scripture histo-
ry. In all this we see distinctly the features of
Him who while on earth went about doing
good.

Being a truly modest young man, when our
Southern Christian conceived the idea of deli-
vering lectures on the Shorter Catechism every
month, at Pacolet, he must have felt a tremu-
lous movement throughout his nervous system.
As this thought first rose on his mind, he feared
to entertain it ; but was afterwards encouraged
to proceed by the aid which he perceived he
might obtain from Dr. Green's and Ridgeley's
Lectures on the same subject. An additional
inducement to pursue this course, was, that he
would be thereby completely digesting a system
of theology, and preparing himself to be, in the

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 101

best sense of the word, an 'orthodox divine.'
After these reflections, the subject is mentioned
to his highly-esteemed pastor, who gives his
sanction. Pearson, having obtained the con-
sent of his heart before, and now having the
support of his conscience, with all the diffi-
dence of humility, but with all the firmjiess of
resolution, addresses himself to his work.

How he felt on this subject, and others inti-
mately connected, will appear from the folio wing
letter to two young friends at Knoxville, which
you have almost entire — dated March, 1832.

" Dear Friends, —

The Giver of every blessing continues to
administer to all my necessities, blessing me
especially with health and contentment. You,
I doubt not, have also experienced his goodness
in every respect, if it should be even in sick-
ness ; for he sends every chastisement for our
good : whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth.

"Since I arrived at home I have unexpect-
edly fallen into a new and important station.
The teacher of our Academy, having removed
to Georgia, left three vacant churches, one of
which lie and some other friends have engaged
me to attend monthly.

102 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

"With the approbation of our pastor, I have
commenced delivering lectures on the Shorter Ca»
techism. My inexperience in this work will lead
me to rely entirely on divine aid. The best and
most experienced minister depends altogether
on the Lord Almighty for success in his minis-
terial labors ; how much more do I need help
from above, who both in wisdom and experi-
ence am but a child.

"The Academy at Poplar Spring, which Mr.
Kennedy left, is now occupied by Mr. Dickson,
our pastor, with whom I am studying theology.
I have finished Moral and have nearly completed
Natural Philosophy. I have read carefully the
first volume of Home's Introduction, and about
one third of the first volume of Ridgeley's Bo-
dy of Divinity. I read slowly, pausing often,
striving to understand every thing fully as I
advance, and fix all in memory. Besides, three
or four hours every day are occupied in the
study of Hebrew or Greek. The ministry is
an important undertaking, for v/hich we should
be well prepared, both in piety and literature.
Mr. D. has in his Academy four promising
young men, who are looking forward to the
ministry. We have a prayer meeting every Sab-

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 103

bath evening, at which we trust the young
plants of grace are nourished and strengthened.
The utility of such a society you know, I trust'
from experience. The sweet brotherly devo-
tions we enjoyed together in the retired grove,
were certainly not in vain. And although the
particular object for which we entreated did
not seem to be granted at the time, our prayers
may yet be answered by copious showers from
on high. I hope your petitions still continue to
ascend together. Though but two in number,
you can claim the promise made to two or three.
Let your request be that the blessing may de-
scend immediately. And when you pray be-
lieve that you receive, and you shall receive.
Perhaps it was here we erred before, in not
asking in faith for an immediate blessing.

"I long to know whether the two jarring soci-
eties, for whose union we prayed, are likely to
be reconciled. I verily believe that it is their
disunion that hinders a revival in those church-
es. The Spirit of the Lord dwells not in the
midst of strife. Use your utmost endeavors
to effect a reconciliation. Young as I am, I
would send them a reproof, if I could, that
would reach their hearts. You may tell them,

1Q4 SOUTHERN C II II I K f I A N .

from me, that if they love their own souls and
the souls of others, and want to follow Jesus,
they will forgive and pray for one another. If
they do this, each will be willing to sufier wrong
rather than prolong the contention, and their
mutual prejudices will be swallowed up in love-
Tell them farther, and tell them plainly, that
He who on the cross prayed, 'Father forgive
them, they know notwdiat they do,' looks from
his high throne, with displeasure, on their strife.
He points yet to a little child, and says to them
'Except ye become as this little child, you shall
in no case enter into the Kingdom of Heaven.'

"In our supplications let us not forget the
pagan world ; and let us use our endeavors to
supply them with the gospel. I would enjoin
it on you both, to inquire whether you are not
bound, yourselves, to carry the gospel to the
the heathen. The command of the Saviour
and the claims of the world are before you.

"Give my respects to Dr. Ooflln ; the pater-
nal advice and caution which he gave will be
remembered with gratitude, as the means of
guarding me against error (page 84). Let the
Doctor read this letter.

Yours affectionately,

A. J. PEARSON."

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 105

The last paragraph is recorded with peculiar
pleasure, as the spontaneous effusion of a heart
in which resentment could not lodge, ahd as a
delightful exemplification of the heaven-de-
scended adage, "Reprove a wise man, and he
will love thee."

The lectures on the Catechism which were
delivered at Pacolet were sometimes written
out, sometimes bai^e skeletons were formed :
from those of the first kind we make a short
extract, as a specimen of the manner in which
they were composed, and as a disclosure of the
high motive by which th -It author was governed
in all he did or said.

" In all we do, we should have a single eye
to the glory of God. Before we enter on any
important business, before we even buy or sell
a piece of property, we should ask ourselves
whether or not it will promote the declarative
glory of God. Perhaps that which we spend
for property we do not absolutely need, should
have been given to some benevolent object,
which would have tended to advance the cause
and glory of the Redeemer." Of him, all who
knew him well would with cheerfulness say:
" Whether he ate or drank, 01* whatever he did,
he did all to the glory of God."

CHAPTER VIII.

While our student of theology is conscien-
tiously pursuing the course he has prescribed
for himself, he finds leisure to write letters to
the pious, to urge them forward in their hea-
venly career, remind them that angels will soon
be their companions, heaven their home, and
the universe the sphere of their action. To the
thoughtless, insisting that they were constitu-
tionally designed to reflect on things beyond
the reach of sight ; and therefore to bound their
views by the horizon of this world would be
criminal and perilous. To the vicious and pro-
fligate, warning them that the race they were
running would end, if pursued, in temporal and
eternal ruin. To friends of tract-distribution,
to quicken their zeal in the holy cause, and
guard them against being weary in well-doing.
To superintendents and teachers of Sabbath
schools, to awaken all their energies in behalf
of the rising generation, the hope of the future
Church, as well as of our growing republic.
To the friends of temperance, persuading thern

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 107

to distinguish themselves, as benefactors of the
present generation, by employing the most vigo-
rous efforts, to restrain from complete vassalage
those who were likely to become the hopeless
slaves of intemperance. In a word, his mind,
his heart, his hand, his voice, and his pen, were
ever ready to aid and defend whatever tended to
promote the temporal and eternal happiness of
man.

In the midst of these noble employments he
anticipates an approaching period of deep inte-
rest to his heart. Stern winter passes away;
lovely spring begins to send forth its bland
zephyrs; and all nature revives. But our stu-
dent of theology is not charmed as he once was
with the expanding foliage, the budding flower,
or the fragrant breath of spring. Another sea-
son is near, which has awakened anxieties which
enchanting spring cannot lull. The spring ses-
sion of the Presbytery of South Carolina is
drawing near; and he, if his purpose fail not, is
about to announce himself as a candidate for
the gospel ministry. He is about to tell the
ambassadors of Jesus Christ, assembled in his
name, and by his authority, that he believes he
is born of the Spirit, and moved by the Holy

108 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

Ghost to seek the most sacred office on earth.
His conscience tells him that he must now give
lucid proof of his regeneration, and ample evi-
dence of his being called of God, as was Aaron.
In deep solitude, where no eye can see him but
God's, he reviews his life and searches his
heart on his knees. The agitation of his spirit
subsides in a heavenly calm ; he gives himself
afresh to the God of his salvation, and pants for
a full unction of the spirit. He meets at length
the ministers of Jesus Christ, and feels that he
stands on holy ground; he is introduced to the
Presbytery by Mr. Dickson as one who desires
to be under its care; the moderator turns his
eye towards him, invites him to approach and
take a seat; he rises, and his heart beats more
quickly ; he draws near as one whose solemn
air and deliberate step tell whither he is going;
he is gravely seated, and, while inclining a little
forward, as if involved in deep reflection, the
profound silence is interrupted by the voice of
the moderator, gently requiring him to give a
brief narrative of what the Lord had- done for
his soul, and then concisely state the reasons
why he desired the sacred office. Rising to an
attitude more erect, with a modest confidence,

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 109

he proceeded to describe the exercises of liis
heart, from which he humbly trusted the Lord
had called him by his grace. He mentioiied
no appalling terrors, nor did he speak of celes-
tial raptures. He had nothing extraordinary
to relate. The sum of all he could say was,
that had he any righteousness of his own, he
would renounce every shred of it, and trust ex-
clusively in the Lord Jesus Christ for a free
and full salvation ; and were the whole affair
left to his own choice, he would be saved in this
way, and in no other. From his heart he de-
sired that Christ should have the whole glory
of his redemption. With regard to the sacred
office, he deeply felt his unworthiness, and
greatly feared that he would fall far short of its
high responsibilities: yet he as strongly felt
that no other employment could ever suit his
taste, and, like an ancient servant of God, he
could say from his heart, "Yea, woe is unio
me if I preach not the gospel.'* He had, in-
deed, heard no voice from heaven, he had seen
no vision; no remarkable impulse had taught
him the will of the Most High: yet did he fully
believe that nothing on earth could make hira so
happy as to honor Jesus, promote the spiritual

10

no SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

welfare of the Church, and save souls from
dcatli. We verily believe he could have added
with truth, " I would rather honor Christ than
be myself honored. I would rather bring sin-
ners to Jesus than rule empires."

After a few questions were proposed to him,
and satisfactorily answered, he was permitted
to retire ; when Presbytery unanimously agreed
to receive him, in the hope that, as the Lord
had blessed him, he would m.ake him a blessing.
When called in, he modestly and gratefully
heard from the lips of the moderator that he
miofht refjard himself as a candidate for the ffos-
pel ministry, under the care of the Presbytery
of South Carolina. As a matter of course, the
usual parts of trial were then assigned him.
Next day he had an opportunity of holding
Christian fellowship with the ministers of the
sanctuary, the ruling elders of the Church, and
a numerous concourse of private Christians.
To him this was a solemn day. He feels now
that he sustains a new relation to the ministers
of Christ. He has placed himself directly un-
der their care. He has now a deeper interest
in their hearts. He will be remembered in
their prayers. He recollects also that the eyes

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. XII

and hopes of the Church are turned towards
him. On that day many a petition, he trusted,
rose to Heaven for him. With these views,
and with corresponding feelings amidst the
assembly of the saints, he took his seat at the
table of the Lord. In circumstances so moving
to the pious heart, with such awakening recol-
lections, he renewed his covenant with God,
and gave himself to Him and the Church for-
ever.

Thus passed the winter of 1831 and '32: and
thus passed the succeeding spring, summer, and
autumn. What, in the ; ( nths preceding, our
young brother was, with little variation he con-
tinued to be through the residue of the year.
Whatever difference mio;ht be discerned arose
from his continual improvement. His was truly
the path of " the just, that shineth more and
more unto the perfect day."

To those who understand the beniorn influ-
ence of real Christianity, it need not be told that
our student of theology was a patriot. Just so
far as he was a Christian, in the same decree
was he a patriot. The love of country early
rose in his bosom. In his heart the heroes of
the revolution were cherished with singular

112 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

veneration. The bare mention of the names of
Washington and La Fayette used to kindle a
glow of patriotic ardor in his expanding fea-
tures. In his anticipations our country was
destined to be not merely the home of the emi-
grant, the asylum of the oppressed, the birth-
place of philosophers, of historians, of poets,
and of orators ; but, most of all, the theatre of
grace, the empire of Emanuel. With this
partiality for his native country, and amidst the
brightening prospects of glowing fancy, what
must have been his disappointment and grief
when he almost apprehends the rupture of
those federal ties which bind these States to-
gether! More than once the visions of the
night presented to his disturbed imagination
the gory fields of battle. The political conten-
tions of his own State most of all mortified and
harassed him. In those contentions he bore no
part but that of a peace-maker. With this
view, he matured and wrote the following " Plan
for redressing our grievances and uniting the
contending parlies of our State."

'* As sin is the cause of every evil that comes
on man, let us commence by extirpating it as
far as possible.

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 113

" 1st. Let both parties unite in keeping the
Lord's day holy.

" 2d. Let both parties unite in electing right-
eous rulers, men who fear God.

" 3d. Let them unite in putting down infide-
lity, error of every sort, and vice of every kind,
and in fostering religion and morality.

*' 4th. Let us unite in treating our slaves hu-
manely ; especially avoid, when possible, sepa
rating husbands and wives, parents and children.
Let us teach them the gospel fully. If we bring
them completely under the influence of the
doctrines and precepts of the gospel, this will
prevent them at once from injuring themselves
or us. Let them know that the Bible contains
the will of the Great God ; let them learn to
reverence the sacred book; let them be judi-
ciously taught that it contains the command,
* Servants, be obedient to your own masters,'
and you will at the same time soften their na-
tural ferocity, and make them contented with
their lot.

" 5th. Let both parties unite to spend their

surplus funds in the erection of factories, by

which we will both ward off the evils of the

tarifl" and at the same time enrich our State.

10*

114 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

These arc 'peaceable remedies.' That the
Lord may put it into the hearts of all concerned
to adopt this plan, is the prayer of

" A. J. Pearson."

To the next meeting of Congress he looked
forward v.ith particular solicitude, apprehend-
ing that the political dissatisfaction arising in
the South would then come to a crisis. In a
letter to a friend, he utters this fervent prayer:
" Oh ! that the Lord would preside in our coun-
cils, and dispose our rulers to enact righteous
laws, justand equal for each State." To the same
friend, with regard to the contest then pending,
he observes, " After praying to be directed, I
have resolved not to join either party. This
appears to be my duty, because when a minis-
ter joins one party, his preaching is not accept-
able to the other ; therefore, I do not wish to
join either, or do any thing to injure the gospel ;
and it is very probable when I become a minis-
ter, I. will have many opportunities of address-
ing both parties,"

This was, indeed, entirely consistent with the
character of one who was a follower, and who
expected to be a minister, of Him who had
affirmed *' my kingdom is not of this world."

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 115

In this dignified neutrality he steadily persisted,
although, at the approach of an election, his
beloved father endeavored to induce him to
violate it. Meekly, but promptly, he assured
him that he could not comply with his wish,
assigning his reasons witli so much conscien-
tious firmness and force, that he was at once
convinced that his son was in the right.

About nine months after he began to deliver
lectures to the church at Pacolet on the cate-
chism, a revival of religion commenced in that
place, that greatly cheered his heart. An ac-
count of this time of refreshing, we find in a
letter to the Rev. J. L. Kennedy, their former
pastor, dated,

" Spartanburgh, So. Ca., Nov. 26, 1832.
"Rev. and Dear Sir, —

" I have more good news from Pacolet. On
last Friday week, Mr. M. went with me to Mr.

W. J ''s, and preached at night; after his

sermon I delivered an exhortation. We saw
clearly that the spirit of the Lord was moving
on the hearts of the people. Saturday was a
cold rainy day ; notwithstanding the little church
flocked together. At night Mr. M preached

116 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

again at the house of Mr. W. J . On Sab-
bath the anxious were called. When they be-
gan to approach in greater numbers than were
expected, professors old and young wept for

joy. At night the house of Mr. M'B was

crowded ; and all could not get in. Mr. M

delivered an excellent lecture on the parable of
the ten virgins ; I again followed with an ex-
hortation. Mr. M then requested profes-
sors to kneel, in order to pray for the anxious ;
he then requested the anxious to kneel : before
he finished making the request, they began to
kneel in the back part of the house ; — and im-
mediately the whole assembly, as far as we
could perceive, was prostrate on their knees

beg2:ing for mercy. Mr. M and myself

spent Monday in visiting families ; and he
preached at Mrs. J 's at night. On Tues-
day he preached at the church. The anxious
were again invited ; and the elders told us that
all in the house who were not professors, either
came or tried to come to the anxious seats,

except one. Mr. M preached again at the

house of Mr. W. J at night. Next day we

passed in family visitation ; at night we went
to the Baptist church. There was an over-

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 117

whelming congregation. Mr. L preached,

and Mr. M exhorted ; at the close of the

meeting, a great number kneeled down to be
prayed for. This is a hasty sketch of the
meeting. There are many things more that
would gladden your heart, could I relate them
all. All things were conducted orderly, and
there was no excess in any of the meetings.

"After the congregation was dismissed at Mr.

J 's on Tuesday evening ; he aiul his family

all seemed to be rejoicing together— two more
of his children, a son and a daughter, entertain

a hope. Mrs. J affectionately requested

me to give you an account of the meeting: and
most cordially added with tears in her eyes, " it
would do you so much good." I repeat, Oh,
that I could tell you all the interesting circum-
stances of the meeting! In all that region,
there is scarcely a family to be found, in which
there are not some anxious or some rejoicing.
Oh, that I could give you the names of all the
anxious, that you might remember them seve-
rally at the throne of grace !"

CHAPTER IX.

That revival resulted, it is believed, in the
sound conversion of many who will never for-
get the prayers and exhortations of A. J. Pear-
son. Soon after the close of this interesting
season, his worthy pastor removed to Georgia.
The editor of these memoirs had, about one
month previously, located himself at Fairview,
in Greenville District, with the hope of regain-
ing his health. After Mr. Dickson had resolved
to leave Nazareth, he was invited to visit that
church. This invitation he concluded to accept ;
and, accompanied by two of the elders of Fair-
view, he repaired to Nazareth. The first even-
ing he spent at the house of Mr. Dickson, who
was on the eve of departing to Georgia. That
evening, he had the first sight of the subject of
these memoirs. About the close of twilight,
with two or three books in his hands, he entered
Mr. Dickson's house. After an introduction,
Mr. Pearson took his seat, and sat in silence-
The conversation that had been interrupted by

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 119

his entrance, proceeded ; but the eyes of the
writer of these pages, were fixed ahuost exchi-
sively on him. There was nothing remarkable
in his person or his features ; but he was the
very image of simplicity, sincerity, and meek-
ness. His eye was not keen and searching, nor
did it seem to radiate beams of transcendent
genius : but it indicated habitual thoughtfulness,
and profound reflection. Had one met him in
a forest, he would have regarded him as a stu-
dent. Had he first viewed him in a large
assembly of strangers, he would have recog-
nised in him a saint.

Soon after the departure of his pastor, Mr.
Pearson removed to Fairview, to pursue the
study of theology, under my care. Every day's
observation confirmed my first impressions
respecting him; and brought him nearer to my
heart as a conscientious, firm, and zealous
follower of the Son of God.

As a student of theology, he was diligent
almost to excess. The theological course which
he pursued, completely engrossed his mind and
his heart. In his studies, he was aided chiefly
by Medulla Markii and Ridgely's Body of Di-
vinity. Twice every week he recited a portion

120 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

of the New Testament, carefully and critically
studied ; which he was able thoroughly to ana-
lyze. As often, and in the same manner, he
read a part of the Old Testament in the original
language. Four times in the week he discussed
some point in theology. After which I pro-
posed questions connected with the subject,
allowing him the liberty of doing the same. On
Friday he gave a concise view of the opinions
of one or both of the above named authors?
respecting some of the more abstruse doctrines
of theology. Having a very retentive memory,
and a natural promptitude in the acquisition of
lano[uae:es, he read both Hebrew and Greek
with accuracy and ease. As he had known the
Scriptures from a child, and read them frequent-
ly with care and delight, there was no part of
them with which he was not familiarly ac-
quainted. Hence could he, after a little reflec-
tion, collect, arrange, and repeat all the pas-
sages, by which any doctrine was supported.
Respecting all the parts of the Bible which to
him appeared obscure, besides examining the
original languages, he had consulted several of
the best Commentators. It was his custom,
when reading the word of God, if any paragraph

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN, 121

occurred, which he did not fully understand, to
mark it and keep a memorandum of it, never
dismissing it, until his inquisitive mind found
rest in some satisfactory exposition. His cleri-
cal friends, who knew him intimately, will re-
collect some of the numerous questions which
he proposed to them, on such subjects. Thus
"did he study to show himself approved unto
God, a workman that needeth not to be
ashamed; rightly dividing the word of truth."
To this custom he was not prompted by mere
curiosity; he was solicitous to know the whole
revealed will of God, that it might influence and
shape his mind and his conscience, his heart
and his life ; and through him extend its gra-
cious power to others.

At Fairview, he lodged with Mr. P. The
situation was retired, the family small, and
every thing agreeable to his taste. But there
was one thing wanting. The little family cir-
cle did not bow around the altar of God. Diffi-
dent and reserved, like himself, Mr. P. hesitates
to mention the affair. On the other hand Mr,
Pearson knows not how the proposal would be
received, if made by him. At length a sense
of duty constrained him ; he delicately suggests

U

122 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

the matter to Mr. P. — he readily assents, — the
family is collected, and the worship of God is
introduced. Thus, like the patriarchs, wherever
our young and devoted Christian dwelt, he
erected an altar to the Lord.

At the opening of the spring of 1833, there
was a Sabbath school established at Fairview,
which enlisted the feelings of the whole congre-
gation : and was conducted with more spirit and
success than perhaps any other institution of
this kind, on this side of the Potomac, located
in a country place. Of this Sabbath school
Mr. Pearson was appointed superintendent.
The influence of the prayers which he uttered,
and the addresses which he delivered, abides yet
on the hearts of almost all.

As usual, he felt a deep concern for the spi-
ritual welfare of the people of color. Having
obtained the permission of the session of the
Church, during the summer season, he frequently
assembled them at the stand ; from which he
delivered exhortations, which brought them in
greater numbers to the house of God ; which
taught them, in some degree, to reverence the
Sabbath day, to respect their owners and them-
selves. The influence which he exerted over

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 1

them is still visible among them. In the alTec-
tionate remembrance of ixiany, he still lives :
and some, I trust, vrill yet ascribe their first im-
pressions to his compassionate zeal. Before the
close of the year, having- obtained my consent,
he returned to Spartanb'^rgh, to gratify an aged
grandmother, to pursue his studies in the bosom
of his father's family, amidst retreats endeared
to him by fellowship with God, — to watch over
the spiritual interests of his father's colored
people ; and, most of all, to be within reach of
his dear little flock at Pacolet. The same course
of study, with very little alteration, he continued
at home, which he had commenced at Fairview.
He still considered himself under my care,
though we seldom met more frequently than
twice a month, at the stated times when I
preached at Nazareth, During the winter, his
spirit was unusually devout. An affection of
the head, which assumed some of the symptoms
of one which at an early period had threatened
his life, made him to feel more entirely his de-
pendence on God, and the vanity of all human
attainments and prospects.

This indisposition turned his mind more en-
tirely than ever to a foreign mission. As far

124 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

as I know, this subject was not mentioned to
more than one person until his recovery, when
he ventured to intimate it to myself. He was
bent on going to Columbia at the opening of
spring (1834). His father had labored, to no
purpose, to dissuade him. He still persisted,
though the roads were extremely bad, and the
season rainy and exceedingly unpleasant. While
I was expostulating with him on the risk there
would be in exposing his feeble health at that
uncomfortable season, to show that he was not
obstinate, he informed me that he believed that
God was calling him to occupy some station
among the heathen ; and that he wished to visit
Columbia, to obtain information on that subject,
before the meeting of Presbytery.

I thought, by all means, he ought to decline
going to Columbia at that period ; and advised
him to obtain the information he needed by let-
ter. He yielded to my counsel, and remained
at home.

Now he becomes more intensely devout than
ever. His whole soul is fixed on the great work
in which he expects soon to be employed. He
has almost in readiness his closing trials, to be
exhibited before Presbytery at its next meeting.

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 125

and but two short weeks intervene. As the
intervening" time elapses, each day finds him
nearer heaven. Oh, how much grace does he
i;:)w need! In his trembling heart he asks,
*' Who is sufficient for these things ?" And no-
thing could have induced him to advance a step
further, had not his mighty Redeemer assured
him "My grace is sufficient for thee;" and
" Lo ! I am with thee always."

The destined, interesting moment at length
arrives. Having been now two years under the
care of Presbytery — having passed through an
examination on the sciences and ancient lan-
guages, on theology and ecclesiastical history —
having given several specimens of his capacity
to expound the Scriptures, in exegeses, lectures,
and sermons, the last of which was delivered in
public ; and having, above all, given testimo-
nials of his good moral character, his experi-
mental acquaintance with religion, and his
being called of God to assume the sacred office,
and all having met the hearty approval of
Presbytery ; — the moderator rises from his s' at:
before him stands the pensive candidate, with a
countenance, every feature of which told the
responsibility of a herald of the cross. In

126 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

.answer to questions proposed by the moderator,
he makes a public profession of his faith. The
venerable moderator then, surrounded by his
brethren in the ministry, the ruling elders, and
several private members of the Clmrch, spreads
his hands abroad, and lifts his voice to heaven
in behalf of our young brother, who is about
to take part with us in the proclamation of
mercy to a dying world ; — " That the Lord may
set him apart for himself — fully qualify him for
his office — give him a mouth and a wisdom
which the adversaries of truth cannot gainsay
— make him a comfort to the Church, a blessing
to the world ; in a word, make him ' faithful
unto death, and then give him a crown of life.'"
The heart of our serious candidate melts while
it rises to heaven with the fervent importunity
of the moderator, and to his deliberate and so-
lemn Amen, it responds " Amen."

With an air of majesty suited to his high rank
as a minister of the Son of God, and with a com-
passionate regard to the frailty of a young bro-
ther, who was ready to sink under the weight
of an office which an angel could scarcely sus-
tain, the moderator gravely, distinctly, and
aftectionately uttered the consecrating address:

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 127

" In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, and by
that authority which he hath given to the Church
for its edification, Ave do license you to preach
the Gospel wherever God in his providence
nmy call 5rou ; and for this purpose, may the
'olessing of God rest upon you, and the Spirit
of Christ fill your heart. Amen."

" Now," our young Christian says within him-
self,"! am the Lord's forever." From that solemn
period, he seemed to feel with unusual force
that he was "not his own."

He is immediately employed by Presbytery
as a domestic missionary ; and the very next
day he commences his labors.*

The bounds of the Presbytery described the
sphere of his labors. All our destitute Churches
shared in his sympathies, and were refreshed by
his visits. In the several districts included in
this Presbytery, he " fully preached the Gospel

* My brethren who are well acquainted with our ec-
clesiastical affairs will readily excuse this minute detail,
when they recollect, that this little volume will fall into
the hands of many who are prejudiced against our method
of preparing our candidates for the pulpit, merely because
they do not fully understand it. Besides, I trust it may
prove useful to candidates themselves.

128 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN-

of Christ" Though he lived but five short
months after his licensure, yet in that brief
period he did "the work of an evangelist," and
made full proof of his ministry. In his sermons
he was at once doctrinal and practical. As in
his life, so in his sermons, every doctrine led to
practice. His manner was always solemn,
affectionate, and persuasive ; sometimes pun-
gent, powerful, irresistible. To eloquence he
made no pretension ; but frequently rose above
his aim, and surpassed the hopes of his friends.
Simplicity characterized every thing he said or
did. It appeared in his thoughts, in their ar-
rangement, in his illustrations, in his lansruage;
in a word, in every thing. 'SVTien, therefore, he
was animated, his animation was natural ; when
pathetic, his pathos was an effusion of nature.
Pomp and display he avoided, as we would a
pestilence. Affectation he abhorred, as we do
hypocrisy. His manner was not, therefore
imposinor and commanding. While it gained
attention, it left the heart unguarded, until taken
by surprise. WTien eloquent, it was his heart
that spoke ; and the hearts of his hearers moved
or rnelted with his. The tones of the gentler
passions he well understood. He never studied

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 129

them; nature taught him. We would say that
he was the child of nature, did not religion
oblige us to rise one step higher, and say he
was a child of grace.

Hence, in his preaching, his subject was more
seen than himself — A. J. Pearson less visible
than Christ. He preached, not himself, but
Christ Jesus the Lord.

To all the saints who heard him, his dis-
courses were peculiarly savory, truly a " savor
of life unto life." Most of the commendation
received from the ungodly was like that which
his king bestowed on Massilon — " Whenever I
hear you, I go away condemning myself" No
wonder, therefore, that all the churches received
him as a messenger of Christ. And it was not
strange that every destitute church in our
bounds wished to obtain a share in his stated
labors. Nor was it astonishing that a vacant
church, assembled to hear him preach, should
dissolve into tears, when they heard that their
beloved missionary was no more. " Such a
weeping," said one of the elders present on that
occasion, " I never saw before."

It is an affecting fact, that his last sermon
was delivered to his dear little flock at Pacolet,

130 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

where the Lord had so signally bleat his ex-
hortations, before he was licensed to preach.
That had been his Nebo, and there he had put
off his robes. That Sabbath was the fourth
Sabbath of August, (1834). On Monday he re-
turned to his father's. His watchful mother
thought she saw symptoms of unusual lassitude;
but he uttered no complaint. On Tuesday his
complexion was very sallow ; but there was no
other indication of disease. At the close of day
he met the family around their altar, which he
himself had erected ; and there, with a devout
heart and strong feelings, he performed his last
public service. That night he was restless —
slept none, but complained little. On Wednes-
day he could no longer conceal his indisposi-
tion, and a physician was called in. That
morning he wrote with his pencil, under the
influence of high fever, some verses, intimating
that he anticipated his disease would bring the
body down, but raise the spirit up — would give
pain to his flesh, but comfort to his heart.
About noon the doctor arrived, and promptly
prescribed medicine, which was given forthwith,
and operated well. At night was composed,
and slept a little. On Thursday he was restless,

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 131

but seemed not to suffer violent pain : at night
his fever rose, and he became exceedingly
thirsty. On Friday his fever continued, and it
was thought necessary to administer more me-
dicine. All that day he spoke little : appeared
to be much engaged in prayer. Saturday morn-
ing he was extremely feeble, but felt no pain.
In the evening his fever rose in some degree,
attended with a singular drowsiness: whenever
nature yielded, and he fell asleep, he imme-
diately awaked as one in the act of strangling,
panting for breath. This unaccountable change
gave the family the first alarm. Sabbath morn-
ing he was tranquil ; spoke of his appointment
for Saturday and that day ; said he would like to
be at his work, for he loved it. His mother said,
" Give yourself entirely to the Lord, for he
knows what is best for you." He closed his
eyes, as if engaged in prayer, and answered
only by expressive silence. About noon his
extremities became cold, followed by cold per-
spiration. About this time, he expressed an
earnest desire to have an opportunity of hold-
ing a private conversation with a friend, who
had just left his room, who he feared might be
led captive by Satan at his will. At the request

132 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

of the family, Mr. D., a member of the Church
of N., prayed for our dear brother, who was
now regarded by all as near the hour of his dis-
solution. During the time of prayer, Mr. Pear-
son raised his head, supported it by his arm,
and listened with unremitted attention. After
this his strength declined apace, his pulse be-
came irregular, his respiration quicker, and he
felt the approach of death. After lying as if in
fixed attention for a few minutes, starting a lit-
tle, he said, " the Saviour is calling for his fol-
lowers." His mother replied, " I hope you are
one of them." He made no reply; but the
calm which spread over his livid countenance
seemed to say, " I trust I am." Looking up,
with a hope that shed a lustre over his glassy
eye, he exclaimed, "O blessed Judge !" Wilh
melting tenderness his father said, " Do you wish
to be with him?" He replied, " Oh, yes !" His
mother is near; his eye often turns to her; he
seems to sympathize tenderly with her in her
ffrief. She ventures to fix her moist eye on his
pale face, and ask, •' My son, are you willing to
leave us all ?" Firmly and without hesitation
he answered, "Yes." Her heart dissolved in
tenderness, and she strove to say, " Thy will be

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 133

done." Still was his languicj eye turned to her.
At length he seemed to lose sight of weeping
relatives and friends. His pale quivering lips
still moved in prayer, two words of Avhich he
articulated aloud — " last nation.'" A mother's
heart readily conceived the rest. She imagined,
and no doiibt correctly, that he was praying
that Emanuel would extend his conquests until
he would vanquish the " last nation."

So frequently and so -fervently did he pray
for the conversion of the pagan world, that all
his most intimate friends believe, that he died
praying for the salvation of poor lost heathens.
In the midst of his last prayer, his pulse stopped,
his breathing ceased. There was no convulsive
struggle ; no limb, no feature moved, when the
unseen spirit bid adieu to earth. On the last
day of August, (1834,) at five o'clock, on the
Sabbath day, the day he so much loved,, Anthony
Jefferson Pearson rested from his labors : and
his surviving friends, with one accord, were
ready to exclaim, " Let my last end be like
his." The next day, amidst a concourse of
afflicted relatives and friends, his body was
conveyed to the silent tomb, and interred near
the church where he was baptized. Not long

12

134 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

after, the Editor preached his funeral sermon
from Rom. xiv. 7, 8 : " For none of us liveth
to himself, and no man dieth to himself: for
whether we live, we live unto the Lord ; and
whether we die, we die unto the Lord: Avhether
we live, therefore, or die, we are the Lord's."

CHAPTER X.

Such was Anthony Jefferson Pearson. He
lived beloved and died regretted by all. We
may naturally be asked, Why was he so highly
esteemed ? What peculiar attractions had he
that gained the admiration and love of such
multitudes?

His person, which was rather below the
middle size, had nothing prepossessing or com-
manding. Having all the reserve of a cloistered
student, there was nothing attractive in his
manners. In company he was generally silent,
unless religion was the topic. He had no sallies
of wit ; at least, he indulged in none. In a
word, he had none of the colloquial graces; and
this, in the estimation of his wisest friends, was
his greatest defect. This defect he perceived
and lamented, and made many an effort to cor-
rect. As a speaker, he was aided by none of
the graces of elocution. His gravity in the
pulpit gained attention ; and in the progress of
his discourse, his increasing warmth fixed it ;

136 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

but no adventitious aid did he derive from grace-
ful gestures or a melodious voice. As to genius,
he was rather, above mediocrity. His under-
standing was not rapid in its movements ; but,
after deliberation, was judicious and clear. His
memory, whether it related to words or things,
was uncommonly retentive. His passions were
so well regulated, that to those who never had
been present while he was engaged in some re-
ligious exercise, he appeared to have none. His
fancy was sometimes lively, but never vivid and
glowing. Flis style was plain, sometimes neat,
sometimes nervous ; but never elegant. In fine,
if we except a good mind, nature had done very
little for him. In him grace was every thing.
With as much emphasis as St. Paul, could he
have said, " By the grace of God, I am what
I am."

In him the grace of God appeared —
1. In profound humility. This virtue he
possessed in such a degree, that his deficiency
in it was visible to no one but himself. While,
in the estimation of his friends, he had no rea-
son to pray as Henry Martin did, " Oh for a
willingness to be despised !" in his own view,
he was deeply humbled on account of his want

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 137

of humility. He had verily no pretensions. He
never desired or sought, but always dreaded
and shunned applause. Hence that which he
never sought always pursued him, and because
he sought it not.

In him the grace of God appeared —

2. In constant and uninterrupted meekness.
No provocation whatever kindled at any time
in his cheeks the hectic glow of anger. He re-
garded no man as an enemy. If any one as-
sumed the attitude of a foe, it only brought him
nearer to his heart. Prejudices he had none ;
if he had, no one ever saw them but God. No-
thing among his intimate friends grieved him
so much as the slightest vestige of resentment.
Almost every other foible he could overlook ;
but that he always reproved.

In him the grace of God appeared —

3. In a candor that was truly Christian. He
had no disguise. Never did he cherish in his
heart one emotion towards any one, which lay
concealed there. Never did he attempt to clothe
any of his faults in the garb of virtue. All his
foibles which mioht affect others he readilv
acknov/ledged; one case of this kind we have

already recorded (page 46). We may now add

12*

138 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN,

another. Having, in conversation, mentioned
to a particular friend some of his juvenile follies,
without relating all the circumstances ; on re-
flection it appeared to him that his statement
was rather an apology for his youthful indis-
cretions than an acknowledgement of them; he
therefore felt himself conscientiously bound to
give his friend the whole narrative, attended
with an humbling confession of his error. In
this he closely followed him who did na sin,
" neither was guile found in his mouth.^^
In him the grace of God appeared —
4. In a diffusive benevolence. That benevo-
lence first embraced the afflicted, whom he at-
tempted to relieve by prayers, by tracts, by re-
citing the promises of the God of all comfort.
Next, his compassion extended to the poor; to
them he was prompt to carry a Bible, or a tract,
or any other relief that his purse or his heart
could give. Then his sympathies gathered
around the slave, who was without God and
without hope in the world. Next, the levity
and waywardness of children awakened his
pity, and prompted him to stretch forth both
hands to gather them, first into the Sabbath
school, and afterwards into the fold of Christ.

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 139

But the warm charities of his heart, could not
be confined to one community ; they were
bounded only by the limits of human woes.
But amidst his yearning compassions, the de-
graded Bacchanal and the disconsolate Pagan,
lay nearest to his heart, Had he lived, no
doubt his influence would have been felt on the
other side of the globe. His expanded heart
would never have been satisfied until it had ' a
nation for its congregation.' A missionary
doubtless he would have been. He who died
praying for the heathen would, had he lived,
have done much more than pray.

Again the grace of God appeared in him —
5. In the compassionate allowance which he
made for the failings of others. He never took
up, nor did he ever give circulation to, an evil
report. On every action which the public con-
demned, he was ready to place the best con-
struction, if any such it would bear. Calumny
never proceeded from his lips, nor could it in
his presence fall from the lips of others without
a rebuke. If, on any occasion, he heard the
character of others traduced without defending
them, or rcbukincr the slanderer; he afterwards
bitterly condemned himself. Of all unjust cen-

140 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

sure, that grieved him most which wantonly
fell on the ministers of the sanctuary, or the
members of the Church. Tatiers and slan-
derers, however plausible, were in his judg-
ment associated with serpents and alligators,
panthers and wolves. Being thus so far re-
moved from the regions of slander; no one had
ever occasion, by way of retaliation, to slander
him.

In him the grace of God appeared —
6. In a spirit truly Catholic. Among the
various denominations of Christians, he was
tenderly attached to the followers of Christ
wherever he found them. If they bore the image
and breathed the spirit of Christ, with him they
needed no other recommendation. In remarks
made respecting the professors of religion in
other churches, he never took a part ; but uni-
formly checked them, by expressive silence, a
gentle frown, or a mild rebuke. A similar
course he constantly pursued -with regard to
observations made about ministers who wanted
the advantages of education. He maintained,
that it was utterly inconsistent with the sanctity
of the Sabbath or of the house of God, to sit as
critics; where we should rather go to learn

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. HI

and correct our own faults. For the spiritual
welfare of all the churches, he fervently prayed.
When religion flourished, and the word of the
Loud had free course and was glorified among
them ; he rejoiced in their joy. When among
them religion languished, dissensions arose,
professions stumbled ; he received the news
with a dejected countenance and an afHicted
heart. The cause of Christ every where was
his own. His best interests were identified
with those of the Church. So true is it that
they who have the most religion have the most
charity. And they hav the least sectarian
spirit, who are nearest heaven ; for there is none
of it there.

In him the grace of God appeared —
7th. In an enlightened, vigorous, unwearied
zeal, the object of which was the glory of
Christ and the enlargement of the Church.
In the midst of the most diligent prosecution
of his studies, he had leisure every day to de-
vise, or mature, or in part execute, some plan
of uspfulness. At ono. time he is occupied with
the best method of conducting Sabbath schools,
and devises a plan for the most profitable ma-
nagement and distribution of the library, so as

142 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

at once to awaken the curiosity and excite the
emulation of the pupils. At another time he
digests the scheme of a tract society, in which
he united economy with a more thorough and
extensive distribution. Again he is employed
in forming and maturing a system of benevolent
exertion for the South, combining several ob-
jects, domestic and foreign, so as to meet the
partialities and shun the prejudices of those
who might unite in its support. At one time,
his heart is fixed on the amelioration of the
condition of the colored people of the South;
and often did he pause to ask : What can be
done ? What at least should I do ? To the last
question he answered by his practice : for out
of the word of God he taught them publicly
and from house to house. At another time
he forms and aids in conducting a prayer meet-
ing for youth ; and in it offers up many a fer-
vent prayer, and delivers many a persuasive
address.

His zeal was not like the lightning, irregular
in its appearance and movements ; nor like the
meteor, that blazes suddenly and as suddenly
expires : but rather, like the dim crescent of
the new moon, that advances night after night,

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. I43

until, full orbed, " the planets are lost in her
blaze." The zeal of our Southern Christian
like the sun, brightened as it rose; but unlike
the sun, it set at noon.

In him the grace of God appeared —
8th. In a noble independence of spirit.
The spirit of the world, public sentiment
when incorrect, the erring 'laws of honor' had
no influence over him. His course was pre-
scribed by his Bible ; the will of God was his
paramount authority, A judicious understand-
ing, a discriminating conscience, a sterling in-
tegrity, were his counsellors and guides. When
he needed counsel, he sought it among the
most pious, in his Bible and in Heaven; but
elsewhere he sought it not. His independent
spirit appears, in the firmness and promptness
with which he opposed vice, fashionable or un-
fashionable, whatever shape it might assume.
It also shone in his regular and constant ad-
herence to Christ crucified, every where and at
all times. But most of all was it conspicuous
in his high resolve, to dedicate himself to God
in a Foreign Mission. Here like Abdiel in the
revolt of heaven, 'he stood alone.' His fathers
in the ministry, thought that the destitute

144 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN

placc3 of our Southern Zion, had the first claim
to his services ; so thought, in their very hearts,
the destitute churches. So thought the editor,
who once imagined that he could exert an in-
fluence over our young Christian, as great as
any other man. All his relatives, and they
were numerous, and almost all his friends,
stood opposed to the accomplishment of his
design. The warm affections of a father, a
mother, a grandmother, and a sister, seized him
with violence, to detain him at home. But all,
all could not shake his purpose. The editor
remembers well, and with deep regret too, his
effort to move his purpose, because he knew
not then how deeply it was fixed. His opi-
nion, which heretofore was treated with great
respect by our Southern Christian, had in this
case little more influence, than the v/ave of
ocean that dashes and breaks against the fast
anchored rock. The attempt he did not — he
could not renew; his heart told him, that the
steadfast purpose of our hero was of the Lord.
In him the grace of God appeared —
9th, In a spirit remarkably devout. It was
his custom, for many months previous to the
close of his life, to retire regularly three times

t^^*e f\

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 145

a day, for private devotion. On Sabbath day,
when he returned from the house of God, as
well as before he went thither, he claimed an
hour for retirement: before he went to the
church, he earnestly sought the blessing of
Heaven for the minister and the services of the
sanctuary : after he returned home, having re-
viewed and applied to himself what he heard, he
importunately prayed that it might abide and
live in his heart, and in other hearts. With
regard to a devout temper, every day was a
Sabbath to him; for his time was all sacred
time, all the Lord's time; but on the Sabbath
day a deeper shade of solemnity seemed to,
overspread his countenance. During the week
he seemed to have little intercourse with earth ;
on the Sabbath, none at all. Through the week
he appeared to be a stranger and a sojourner ;
on the Sabbath he seemed to be at home in the
city of our God.

Being accustomed to have fellowship with
God in his private devotions, he prayed in pub-
lic as one who was not addressing a stranger,
but a well known and well tried friend. His
supplications were most obviously addressed,
not to a God afar oS, but to a God near at baud.

13

146 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

Having had communion with God three times
a day, he was truly in the fear of the Lord all
the day long. I never knew a man who had a
belter right to say with the Psalmist, '• I have
set the Lord always before me ; because he is
on my right hand, I shall not be moved." All
who knew him thoroughly will no doubt con-
cur with the Editor when he says, " I never saw
him in a frame of mind unsuitable to devotion,
nor in a state of heart that would not well cor-
respond with the death-bed of a saint."

Finally, in him the grace of God appeared —
10. In an habitual cheerfulness, an unclouded
serenity. To the profligate, the vicious, or the
mere formalist, the life of our Southern Chris-
tian would seem a course of self-denial, mortifi-
cation, and gloom. Worldly pleasures, sinful
gratifications, he had indeed abandoned ; but in
forsaking them he had risen to a higher sphere
of enjoyment. In him was it most clearly proved,
that " the fruit of righteousness is peacs, and
the cflecfc of righteousness quietness and as-
f^urance forever." Why did he delight so much
in the hours of retirement? Why did he take
so much ple'-'sure in going to the hou?e of God?
Because he could say in truth, " I will go to the

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 147

altar of God ; to God my exceeding joy."
Whence arose that perpetual peace which he
seemed to enjoy ? " O Lord, thou wilt keep
him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on
thee, because he trusteth in thee." His peace
verily flowed like a river, deepening and widen-
ing as it approached the ocean. He had his
heaven here, rising and increasing in felicity as
it ascended to the heaven of heavens. Down
to his last hour, the adage of the wise man was
fully verified in. him: "Wisdom's ways are
-ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are
peace." Where then will we find on earth the
happy man ? Let an ancient sage answer :
" No one ought to be pronounced happy before
his death." Rather let our Pearson's life an-
swer: " Mark the perfect man, and behold the
upright; for the end of that man is peace."

The letter from which the following extract
is made, was received from my worthy brother,
the Rev. J. G. Landrum, of the Baptist Church,
after this little volume was completed. As it
strongly confirms what has been already said

148 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

of the catholic spirit and heavenly temper of
our Southern Christian, it is most cheerfully
subjoined.

" Mount Zion, June 27, 1835.

*' Anthony .Tefl'erson Pearson."

" I became intimately acquainted with the
Rev. J. Kennedy, now of Pendleton, S. C, in
the year 1831, with whom I spent some delight-
ful hours in conversation. He often asked me
if I ever had become acquainted with A. J.
Pearson, remarking, at the same time, * he is an
interesting young man ; upon an acquaintance,
you would be highly pleased with him.' Mr,
Kennedy always spoke in the most exalted
terms of him. He admired him for his piety,
evenness of temper, and prospects for future
usefulness. All others whom I hear mention
him, spoke in the most exalted terms of him,
and gave me a strong prepossession in his
favor.

*' Sometime in the year 1832, I enjoyed the
long anticipated pleasure of being introduced
to the young brother of whom I had heard so
many interesting facts ; and upon an intimate
acquaintance, which was soon formed, I indeed

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 149

found him an interesting young man ; intelli-
gent, agreeable, and pious ; a true lover of the
Lord Jesus Christ, and all his genuine fol-
lowers.

" Sometime in the same year, the Presbyte-
rian Church at North Pacolet solicited his la-
bors. Not being yet licensed to preach, he
attended and delivered lectures on the catechism;
in doing which he always used to pass the place
of the writer's residence, so that he saw him
frequently, and was always anxious that he
should call, which he seldom failed to do. By
these interviews our acquaintance was increased,
and I can truly add, the more I associated with
Jefferson Pearson, the more I became attached
to him. The first time I ever heard him speak
in public was shortly after he had commenced
his lectures at North Pacolet; when he delivered
an impressive exhortation, after a sermon had
been preached from John, ix. 28, ' The Master
is come, and calleth for thee.' In his exhorta-
tion he feelingly urged sinners to comply with
the calls of God, by repentance and faith, warn-
ing them of the bad consequences of resisting
the Holy Spirit, &c. Though frequently with
him, I do not remember to have heard him

13»

150 SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

again until he was licensed to preach ; after
which he made an appointment to preach at his
father's residence on a certain evening. Being
very anxious to hear him, 1 attended his ap-
pointment. He gave an excellent sermon in-
deed from the following text : ' Come unto me,
all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I
will give you rest.' Matt. ix. 28. His division
of the subject rendered it plain and easy, his
illustrations were simple and readily under-
stood, his language chaste and perspicuous,
his sentences beautiful and sublime, and his ap-
plications forcible and impressive : in a word,
his performance v/as as I anticipated ; for I had
often remarked, when speaking of him, that his
devotedness to his studies, his most excellent
piety, together with his good natural talents,
and fine opportunities to improve them, would
certainly render him an illustrious minister of
the Lord Jesus. After hearing the above-
named sermon, I heard some persons express
themselves fearful that his manner of address
was not sufficiently animated : and, indeed, I
had some fears myself on that account; but on
hearing him again, my fears were entirely re-
moved. On a certain evening, which I uhall

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN. 151

never forget, (it being the last time my lot was
cast with this worthy disciple of Jesus,) I had an
appointment to preach : Jefferson Pearson made
it convenient to meet me, (he being then a do-
mestic missionary,) and cheerfully took a part
in the services of the evening, and exhorted
after sermon with great warmth. He proposed
in his exhortation to offer some of the high in-
ducements calculated to influence sinners to
seek an interest in Christ: in doing which, he
spoke of the torments of hell which they might
escape, and the glories of heaven which they
might gain. In this exhortation, he set forth
the horrors of the damned in torment in most
awful colors. What a description! I thought
surely there was not a sinner in the house that
could avoid trembling, in view of such an awful
catastrophe as was so eminently and awfully
set before him. And on the other hand, the
grandeur, the glory, and the endless felicity of
heaven, he pourtrayed in the most eloquent and
enticing manner. It seemed as if he, while in
this strain of imagination, did not only 'see in
part,' but that the veil was removed from be-
fore his eyes, and that all the glories of th«

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN.

heavenly region had burst into his mind with
so much force and beauty, that one might almost
have been lead to conclude that ' he had been
caught up to the third heavens.' In this memo-
rable exhortation were contrasted the depths of
hell and the heights of heaven. In treating of
them alternately, the attentive listener's mind
was caught by the most sudden transitions from
the lowest and most wretched degree of misery
to the most exalted and heavenly summits of
bliss; and then, in a thought, from the highest
realms in glory down to the very bottomless pit.

" In the closing remarks he seemed, as it
were, to hold out to the sinner destruction in
the one hand and salvation in the other, and in
the most powerful and pungent manner bade
him make his choice.

" In a few days the Lord called this child of
heaven home to the full enjoyment of those
pleasures on which he dwelt so very delight-
fully. This last discourse of A. J. Pearson had
a captivating influence on my feelings ; and so
shortly after hearing of his departure, it became
indelibly instamped. It will, I doubt not, be re-
membered by me in eternity.

SOUTHERN CHRISTIAN, I53

" Finally, when I am brought to view the
many interesting traits exhibited in his charac-
ter, I frankly confess that I have known but
few, if any, of equal worth. If he had a single
fault, my partiality towards him never suffered
me to behold it.

"Jno. G. Landrum."

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