Autobiography of R.N. Stubbs

(I want to thank Carole Stubbs (cousin) for sharing a copy of this book with me. What a treasure it is. This book has given me the opportunity to get to know my Great Grandfather. I have his scrapbook full of sermons and articles he wrote for the newspaper. I have many obituary notices and other records that I plan to put on my site.)

THE STORY OF MY LIFE

by

REV. ROBERT NEWTON STUBBS

January 19, 1840 - November 17, 1929

Transcribed by Mary Lewis, greatgrandaughter

FORWARD

Pasadena March 4th, 1924

          I have no desire to inflict my story on my children or on the public. When the world is well nigh cursed with worthless Biographies it would only be heaping another load on the rubbish pile to be dumped into some great sea of oblivion.

          Every life contributes its worth into the day and age in which is enacted. If good it has added somewhat to human happiness and wealth. If bad it has made rough paths for some unfortunate and befouls somewhat the sea of life.

          Call it my amusement, at 84 not having any special study. I can see how things look in memories halls. Where I have made a fool of myself, when I have blundered. I will not be anxious to blot these pages.

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          I was born January 19, 1840, Sunday morning in a log house, Unfortunately the log house did not send me to the white house, nor the Bishopric, I escaped those fatalities. My lot was to be with the common people as Lincoln said.

          My parents were Thomas and Mary Stubbs , who gave me no wealth of gold, but the best inheritance that falls to lot of mortals. 1st Good name, 2nd Healthy physical constitution, that has enabled me to battle the storms of 84 winters.

          My father was one of the ablest ministers of the Erie Conference for 50 years and passed away triumphantly at the age of 82 in the City of Cleveland, Ohio.

          My mother endured the hardships of a minister's life for the half century then later entered the Courts of Glory, age 87.

          We remained in Poland till I was between 5 and 6 years of age.

          I recall that once when father and mother had gone as we supposed for a long time, John, the eldest, and <="" a="">, myself and Jabes sugared off. While we were in the midst of the frolic father and mother unexpectedly returned. Consternation seized us, and such a scattering. I can not recall that any punishment was visited on us.

          One day father came home and nothing would do, but I must ride Bonny to the barn. So I was placed astraddle of gentle Bonny and started for the barn. She has no respect for the burden she bore, but entering the door brushed me off behind.

          I recall going down to the Lutheran school house 2 miles. The seats were arranged round the room - 3 sides- the little tots sitting in front of the big boys and girls. Mischief belongs to childhood.

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          And the rod in those days was a favorite weapon of the teachers.

          How the rogues use to be called on to the floor. Toe the mark, stooping over, fingers on some mark, arm extended holding a book. When the teachers back was turned the rogues would try some means to play sharp and soften the punishment.

          In after years I found this teacher, a Methodist Minister, Hurlburt, living in Painesville, Ohio, but resting on account of his health.

          It was while living in the log house that my half brother Joseph died of Typhoria fever. He had taught school in St. Louis the previous winter and came home to take his sister back to assist him in teaching. He passed away the day he was to have gone back to St. Louis. Before he died he saw his own funeral possesion as it really occured.

          At this time our family consisted of Jane, half sister, John, James, myself and Jabez. All have passed away, none of them living under 70 years except for Jane who was 56.

          For one year we lived in Rootstown, Ohio. Nothing but a vague remeberance to me of that place.

          When I was 6 years of age we moved to Erie, PA, where father was a minister 2 years. There I learned to swim and that was one of my boyish sports for many years.

          My school experience leaves an unsavort taste in my mouth. Mother Cooper use to spank her infracted youngsters. The man in the next school used a little Rattan cane over my head and I guess whacked the multiplication table into my noddle.

          One day some of us boys ran away and went swimming in the canal. Before we were thro we discovered father coming swinging his cane.

          There was a hustling and pulling on wet shirts and a lively scramble to get away from the cane. No one was hurt. The cane was camouflage.

          On day JB fell and broke his arm and together we went to the dr and I was scared half out of my wits. To go to the dr was like the Trump of doom.

          One Sunday I stole up stairs on gallery and stretched out on a seat. There was no one in the gallery

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but the choir. Something tickled me and I laughed out. Pretty soon I saw my Mother's head rising up the stairs. I was invited to take a walk and mother found a new place to fit her slipper. It fit well and I guess I never gave occasion to try it on again.

          It was in Erie I tasted Ice Cream. It was this way. The good people made father a donation. They were to serve Ice cream, but it was too precious to give the youngsters, so they called us all into the wood shed. We stood in a semi circle. Some woman took a big spoon and filled it with the delectable cream and gave each a spoonfull. One little urchin slipped out of line and dodged down the row and had his second taste. All of us grinned at the artiface and the lady was none the wiser.

          Ice cream tastes good to this day. It was here I first saw an orange. It was a thing so costly that one served for ornament or the sick rooms.

          It was here too I had my first experience playing merchant. Plums were ripe and we used to fill 2 quart pails and go to the dock and meet the boats and sell our plums to the passengers, who as I now think, always had the best of the bargain.

          Here too for the first time, I saw telegraph wires. They were in coils on drays, and men were putting the wires on poles. What strange stories were passed about among the boys. Why you could send letters even big boxes along those wires. No tongue of yours will ever disclose the secrets of those humming wires.

          Business of the world has been flashed joy and sorrow - secrets that wrought ruin and success have for many many years been going silently in all nations. Now that little blue sign may be said to mark the progress of civilization, in wilderness, on mountains, in valleys. Where man has tried, the wires are singing the song of mans progress.
          Father had 2 great years in the city. His revival laid the foundation of the 1st M.E. Church, now on 7th.

          From Erie father was sent to cleveland. Part of the family went by boat, on CAPT Williams steamer. JB and I had our first experience on a boat. Mother and James went by carriage.

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Cleveland

1849-1851

          The church stood on the corner of St. Clair and Wood St.

          Putting up stoves and beds were experiences never to be forgotten. What fitting of stove pipes, no wonder it has become a proverb. He that can set up a stove without swearing is a Saint.

          The bed tick had to be stuffed with straw obtained somehow and the cords on the bed. I can see my father standing on the cords and stretching till they were tense as iron wires.

          Summer vacations were as blissful as heaven ever can be. Boys in love would go down the coast bearing our grub for an all day jolly time.

          After Carla Waters dog, spotted white and brown, enjoyed the water better even than we. What times we had. Out to the first bar I swam and found lodgement for my feet and rested, then back to shore.

          One time our clothing was laid on some chips, while we were intent on the water fun, the fire we had kindled spread among the chips. But for the spying of one of the boys, we would have gone home as naked as Adam and Eve minus the fig leaves.

          Buffeting the waves diving thro them a rare sport. The art of the sandwich islanders we never learned, but our joy just as great.

          Our group of boys, Smith boys are the only names I recall, used to have rare times playing follow the leader, over sheds and barns and some houses we race. Defying any leader to out us.

          It's a wonder we were not arrested. How patient people often are with sporting kids, often making nuisances of themselves.

          Once something serious happened, It was in grape time. Our force was increased by several strangers, but boys welcome all fun makers. We were climbing fences and sheds, some of the boys helped themselves to some of the grapes.

          That night we were all in bed a long time it seemed. There a rapping, no gentle tapping like Poes raven, but lusty rousing knocking that woke the whole house. Father answered the door. We could hear the complaint. Your boys were stealing my grapes. At that the inqury came, what about that? James answered, we had not touched a grape and explained that the strange boys were guilty. The man was appeased and we were freed. It was a painful

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lesson and never forgotten.

          Old dog Tray had got into bad company. The smell of fire is not easily extinguished.

          It was in Cleveland I saw what was then called messmerism. A stones throw from the parsonage lived Dr. Westervelt. He had in his care an invalid young lady, spinal difficulty.

          One evening he invited a roomful of his friends. A dull button was put in our hands and we were told to look intently at the medal. No one went to sleep except the young lady.

          Soon she was under the drs controll. Dr said, look at the clusters of beautiful grapes. She took up her apron and began plucking the clusters and placing them in her apron.

          There, he said, look at the room full of colored people. A look of terror was on her face and she looked for some escape. Immediately the Dr appeared her fears and changed it to some pleasing subject.

          A lock of hair was given her. She crossed the ocean, found a house and described an old man in bed. It might have been grandfather. Since then messmerism and spiritualism have attracted the attention of the wide world.

          It was in Cleveland I saw the first - The Lake Shore - Cincinatti and Pittsburgh roads were building. The engine looked like a great grasshopper. It's big legs moving up and down. It gave way to more modern types, small, wood burning late flaring smoke pipes. One was called Pioneer and was on the Cincinnati line. Cleveland then was numbered 17000 and there was not much of the city that feet did not tread.

          Across the Cuyahoga was Ohio city. Now a city spreading for miles and numbering over 800,000 has risen one of the greatest commercial cities in America.

          The Cuyahoga Valley was a great sporting field for us boys. Many a poor frog was captured and many a Chestnut tree on the heights we rattled. What a scattering once when it was sounded the owner was coming.

          The old Rockwell St. school was where my ??? began to shoot. Downstairs was

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where my little body need nothing to fill its great vacancy. I remember one of the boys coming with sweet potatoes and I was not slow to eat my share. In after years I met one of those boys as Captain on the great lakes.

          The teacher upstairs was named Humiston. One day something had gone wrong. He couldn't find the culprit so he lined the whole school around walks and with the ruler he gave every boy and girl a slap or two.

          Going to and coming from school I passed a church round as a cylinder, with a cupola rising in the center, just a round. It was a great curiousity. I learned it was built by the Millerites or Advantists. They were expecting the Lords coming and were to meet in the church in white robes and goup into the copula to meet the Lord in the air.

          For 2000 years they have been waiting and he does not come in body.Father had great success and it was the beginning of better days for Methodists.

RAVENNA

1851-1853

          My first ride on the cars was from Cleveland to Ravenna. How wonderful it seemed. Now the old story is forgotten in the strange marvels, miracles of today.

          In the autumn we had our first and only experience in chasing squirrels, there never was such a squirming of those beautiful creatures myraids of them. They came from the woods on the fences to get anything to eat in the apple trees or about the house.

          How we youngsters use to chase them, club them and more than one dish was served from these edible creatures. As I now think, there were so many killed that fall, that they have never been so plentiful or else the cruel hunters nearly exterminated them. Indeed I think there are more in the parks than in the forests.

          So savage has been the slaughter of all kinds of animals, that now we have to fight the insects and all manner of creatures that prey upon our fruit and cereal. Pests of all kinds we have in abundance.

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          It was the time when the rage among boys was for bow and arrows. No nimrod passed me in my boyish imagination. One morning I went across the way where there were stumps and a few trees. Standing by a tree looking up there appeared in the crotch a chipmunk. How full of life, how bright his eyes. His every activity seemed to challenge my presents. I let fly the arrow that brought himquivering at my feet. There I blotted out that innocent happy life. Guilt struck my heart and I never to this day think of that cruel deed but the seering guilt steals over my sole.

          Thats what Jesus meant by saying, There was no forgiveness to the sin against the spirit.

          While I have ever been a lover of the woods, I have rambled among the old barren ????, in the winter and under the leafy temples in summer. I have never killed any manner of creature that enjoys Gods first temples.

          In our second year we lived across the road from Captain Brayton and old sea captain. His daughter was Mrs. Woodbridge who became one of the best known W.C.T.U.[Womens Christian Temperance Union] workers and in after years spent a sabbeth with me preaching in my pulpit.

          There were 2 boys, John and Henry, we were great chums and had our boyish fun without end. They are the only boys I recall by name. One girl, ELIZA PRENTIS 4 years my senior, made the first big party I ever attended. It was a big event. We played forfeits and sang Uncle John is very sick and what shall we send him. A piece of pie and a piece of cake and a piece of battle Dumplings. (If he wasnt sick before he surely would call for the dr after such a repast. But even more kind soles try to stuff the sick with such delicacies). In later years she married a soldier and was the mother of several children.

          Just a few doors below on the same street lived a quaker. He took the Washington Star that publishes HARRIET BEACHER STOWE, Uncle Toms cabin . After he was thro reading he passed it over to father and he read it out loud to the family. We laughed and cried and LINCOLN never hated slavery then did our own boyish hearts.

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          Father was uncompromising in his utterances against that crime of all crimes- At times roused the bitter antagonizing of the advocates of that hidious monster. But he was fearless thro all the years of the terrible stuggle that ended in emancipation.

          About this time I had the priviledge of seeing Louis Kossuth, who fled from Austria because of his attempt to free his people.

          This section of the country was visited by fever and ague and child fever, Mother and father were both taken and father was 6 weeks a victim. Mother had a siege of 12 weeks. In those days where even a death occured the court house bell tolled the sex and age of person. More than once at school I heard that bell and I was almost in terror it was my mother, but she was spared to us long years after that.

          My brother James seized the desire to make something of himself, had gone to Cleveland to learn the painters trade with an old friend, Williams (Fate or Providence ordered otherwise and in a few years became a dr of no mean attainments and practiced for 52 years). While working in the old Church father had preached, he went to the parsonage for a drink of water, not knowing small pox was in the house. In due time he he came down with the foul disease.

          Mother immedietely went and nursed him thro. When she came home there was an uproar in the community. They were going to barricade the street above and below the house, but for some reason they refrained. But it shows at that time the prejudise was so great that people went wild.

          Old Bull visited Ravenna and gave a concert close by, But if I heard it, it must have been while I wondered on the outside of the church.

          It was here I began to remember S.S. and my first Sunday School concert. Miss Prentis sang, "This book is all that's left my now, my mother dying gave it me". I do not remember my teacher. I guess he must have possessed infinate patience.

          I saw GENERAL W. SCOTT, while in Revenna.

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Cuyahoga Falls

1853-1854

          At the end of 2 years we moved to C.F. (Cuyahoga Falls).

          How I remember the river and the waterfalls and the paper mills and the forge and I can hear the rap rap of the hammer forging car axles.

          Down 2 miles was the Old Maids Kitchen where we often went to dinner in (???).

          In chestnut time we climbed big trees and rattled down the chestnuts, Jolly Time.

          I earned a few pennies in the hay fields, 50 cents a day. The first day about noon I fainted. They laid me under a tree and after a short rest I took my place again.

          Sometime during the year that famous negro Fred Douglas visited the place. He was in the home of a quaker and I went with father. I do recall anything he said, but I was impressed that he was a fine looking man, sturdy and physically fine appearance.

          I believe there are sometimes 2 awakenings in a boys life. The intelectual and the spiritual.

          While I had been in school in Ravenna a teacher gave us examples of lightning speed, yet school meant nothing to me. Like most boys I went because I had to. But now I wake - New vision came to me and I wanted to be a scholar. That desire has never failed. The same longing thrills me today at 84. I want to track the footsteps of God and I want his problems to be mine and his thoughts to be my thoughts and his heart to be my heart.

          But my Spiritual came later. It was here my sister Jane was Married to a young lawyer Orlo W. Strong of Ravenna.

          It proved a very happy marriage but only a few years were given them for cancer removed him from lifes activities to the pursuit of a better world.

          At the end of the year we were sent back to Cleveland. Father taking what was known as Erie Street M.E. Church

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Cleveland Erie Street M.E.Church

1854 - 1857

          We lived in a house next to the church one year. I entered the Clinton Street grammer school and it a pleasure to me to do my work and the scholars were suited to my taste. I recall some of them MELANCHTHON, GORHAM was nimble of foot and I had to yield the palm to him for speed. He taught me a lesson one day, I have never forgotten to this day - We were talking at school intermission and in my smartness I spoke of my father as the old man. He looked at me and said I never spoke of my father in that way, Nor did I ever from that day. The rebuke was good.

          My father filled my highest ideal of a noble man.

          Two incidents impressed me. There used to come to church one we called the little frenchman. Rather short in stature erect as a ramrod. He always marched to the front seat, laid down his cane - put on his glassesand was ready for action ans that morning he did act with a vengence. In the interval between Sabbaths someone met him at the door and said "Where are you going", I'm going down to the mission. They have the big devil down to First Church and the little devil here and I'm going to the mission. He was never seen there again.

          On Easter father preached in the Resurrection. Now there was rooming in our house, a women by the name of BROWN. She was one of the homeliest women I ever saw, but she was a remarkably intelligent woman and was a graduate from the medical college.

          Seated at the table the topic naturally turned on the Resurrection. She astonished us all by saying "I'm homely enough in this body and I don't want to be homely in the next world". Don't blame her for the bodily Resurrection is an absurdity.

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Cleveland - Erie Street M. E. Church

1854 - 1857

          The second year we lived on Bolivar Street. Two or three doors away lived Chas Hunt who became my chief crony, We were like brothers. The painful regret of my life is that I didn't follow him up in after years. School boys were never more faithful.

          At the end of the first year I passed in my examination for high school.

          Two or three of us boys learned where the examiners were to investigate the trial paper. The night was hot. The doors and windows of the little house were open. We crawled to the fence near enough to hear the report. There were three of us that stood first among the numerous applications. The first was a sailor who had followed the lakes and now desires an education. As I think he must have been 20-25 years of age - Noble fellow he was. Two of us stood the same 154 out of 200 questions. The sailor was several in advance of us, My rival was Bill Sanders.

          At the end of the first year I stood at the head of the high school. What the future to these and of all the boys and girls. I know not how we lose one another in this great world. How dear we were to each other.

          PROF PALMER and wife and MISS SNOW were the teachers. Yes, and PROF CREHOVE. They are treasured in my heart to this day.

          ART RUSSELL and his sister were among the brightest schoars. Art became a lawyer, able but a tipler. JUDY GARDNER is the only one I ever met in after years. Now I can only recall 3 or 4 by name.

          There was one sport that was the joy of the school. Shinny we called it. There was a vacant lot next the school. That was our battle field. Being nimble of foot I was one of the first chosen or was one of the leaders for the ball, old tin can, block of wood or ball served our purpose. Many a boy I saw with blackened eye or broken nose and shins suffered.

          Never to be forgotten was the fever.

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The Mission

          In the summer father accepted the mission rather than take me from the high school. What a sacrafice, but I did not realize its greatness. Now I do.

          The summer vacation I spent out about 10 miles away where my brother John had an interest in a saw mill.

          I busied myself learning to yield an axe. John said I chopped all night. Now father had 60 acres of wood land, that by hard hard savings he and mother had bought.

          On the edge of the woods was one of the finest hickory trees that ever grew. George Washingtons cherry tree was nothing.

          I assailed that tree and it fell. Its a wonder woodsmaen did not force me to become a wood chopper. I went to work and cut that tree into 4 ft lengths and it made a big load. How shall I get it away some 12 miles to where we lived. Oh I could take the oxen. Never drove oxen in my life, but the temptation was great. That wood would help to keep us warm in winter.

          The wagon was loaded and the oxen was yoked. I guess John must have done that. Fortunately the oxen were as gentle as lambs - Away we started - Theres a saying He that knows not, fears not. All went well till we came to the Ohio City hill. Going down to the Cuyahoga River, just at the bank of the hill the tongue slipped out of the ring on the yoke and lay on the ground.

          Consternation seized me. What if that load runs on the heels of the oxen.

          Teams were passing and repassing. All was confusion. A cop cried out hurry up, but he never offered to help. No time for delay. Quick as a wink I caught up the tongue and by some good fortune I had it back in the ring.

          I breathed easier. We crossed the valley and all the way up main street my load was the observed and the boy ???? in her business. I'd give a thousand dollars

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          for a picture of that scene. Arrived at home, father and I unloaded the wood, fed the oxen myself, rested the oxen and I made the safe return. I never think of that trip but my hair stands on end.

          Couldn't be hired to repeat the journey for a thousand dollard. That was the beginning and end of my learning. But we did enjoy the fire.

          The fall time opened and I was on hand. All went well till on friday afternoon. Pa was speaking and I was to take part. A colored lad went to the platform and was delivering his oration when suddenly darkness settled me. I rose stepped to the Prof and said something and fell into his arms.

          He laid me on a bench in a classroom. In some way he sent me home and it was 4 weeks before I was in my place.

          It was a time of strange expirences. It was the awakening of the Spiritual. For some nights father would, lamp in hand, a pitcher of water, go up to my bedroom.

          Good night and darkness. I had a strange feeling, I am afraid to see God and afraid I may never see him.

          After a time my imagination said you will never pass your birthday and it made us all nervous. The day came and we were all sober. But when the day saw the departure of the sun there were sighs of relief - My mother discovered that I was troubled about my sole.

          She went with me into our frontroom and by a little stand we knelt and she poured out her heart to God. Joined the little mission and from 16 my name has been on the Methodist roll.

          My first day back to school was eventful. The Prof always opened the school with prayer. I sat bold upright. I pledged ???? where he thanked God for

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          the return of his pupil. It broke my heart. I did not suppose I was anything to them. Why should he care for me. He did,. Many years after finding his whereabouts in the east. I wrote him telling him how much I appreciated all he had done for me. He was then a Congregational Preacher.

          Back of the lot where we lived ran the Lake Shore and Pittsburg RR tracks, then the lake.

          We put up a rude bench so we could sit and overlook the harbor 2 miles away, and the movements of the coming and going boats, above all the glorious sunsets are forever glorious in my memory. Italy never surpassed the magnificence, and beauty of those visions.

          Speaking with DR.PEOTE in after years, he said Italy had nothing on those subline pictures.

          It was here I saw the only mirage of my life. Looking out one morning, I just saw the tops of the masts of some ship. While in the clouds, I saw the whole ship. There were 2 or 3 other vessels making the same showing.

          The winter had been a hard one. Great ice cakes were piled up in endless confusion making great hillocks.

          One day JB and I went tramping over the hillocks and the glassy placesand it was a lively time and many a tumble had we.

          It was this year I heard BISHOP SIMPSON for the first time. It was in Old St Clair. His tent The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.

          I also heard BISHOP Mclivain of the Episcopal Church. He set me thinking about the Resurrection. Early I settled forever there will be no earthly Resurrection. When July came father was sent to Painesville, Ohio.

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Painesville Ohio

1857 - 1859

Soon after our arrival, I was taken down with dumague and inflamation of the bowels. I had a serious time of it, but came thro, but was in no condition to enter school.

Walking on the street one day two women were back of me. One said to the other Going into consumption.

I began a system of gymnastics. My own contriving, and in the spring I studied Botany in the fields.

I entered the high school and with JOHN FLEMING studied special geometry. John was a good student. I can see the circles we made on the board. Indeed we could make the circles so perfect we needed no string to help. The last I heard of John he was clerking in a grocery store on Ontarios Street, Cleveland.

I took up spherical geometry by myself. I remember working 3 or 4 days on the example. At last I had it and I shouted Victory.

Some of the high school scholars I recall, HATTIE YOUNG was a beautiful, lively, accomplished girl. She had a somewhat sad career. In later years she was a cripple from Rheumatism. Built a residence next to the church and was wheeled to and from the services. A friend of hers had told me she was the most useful woman in the city. How strangly God makes sometimes the helpers most to carry his messeges to others. ELIZA and LYDIA PHELPS were among the choicest young ladies, daughters of the Episcopal Rector. Their future I never learned.

Across the way catering lived JUDGE BISSELL. He has a daughter living in Alhambra. A member of the Womens Corps in Pasadena.

The Judge was one of the foremost lawyers in northern Ohio. In his early years he was a noted attorney. He visited that part of the country lecturing in school houses denouncing the Bible and the church. A strange circumstance changed his destiny. One Sabboth he came to the parsonage and told us this story, as we were seated, about the stove, it being chilly.

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Painesville Ohio

1857 - 1859

The Judge had 3 children, 2 girls, 1 boy. This boy was the idol of his heart. At this time he must have been not far from 8 to 10.

One day the Judge rode to Ravenna to attend court, about 30 miles I judge.

The lawyers were in the habit of assembling in the court house before the opening of court, and having their jollies in story telling.

Instead of going, the Judge for some reason told the landlord to show him his room. Together they went to the room. The landlord looked around and seeing all was right, departed.

The Judge spied a book on the mantle, went and picked it. Found it was a Bible. Mad, he hurled it across the room and it fell to the floor.

At this the Judge stretched himself on the bed. A strange feeling came over him, he saw a vision, his little boy was down at the railroad on a frieght car. The cars were moving. The boy attempted to leep from one car to the next and fell and was crushed under the wheels.

The little fellow was carried home. The Judge saw how his family was affected. In due time a messenger started to tell the Judge the awful news.

When a messenger reached a certain bridge about 4 miles from Painesville - the messenger and the Judge met on the bridge (I have seen the bridge).

Three times the Judge saw the vision. Along with the vision was some music, which he would sometimes sing for us. This he never did.

So profoundly impressed was the Judge that he started for home.

When he reached the bridge he saw the man approching. The man was so surprised that he knew not how to tell his story. The Judge said - I know my boy is dead.

The vision was verified. From that time the Judge became a devout believer,

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Painesville Ohio

1857 - 1859

and a bold advocate of the Christian religion.

My boy companion was GEO T. LADD, just 2 years younger to the day. He was a noble boy, a fine scholar and became one of the most notable men of his day - A Prof in Yale University and is now Prof Emeritus.

Many the fine time we had together. The most exciting time was fencing. We became quit adept. Once the sport nearly proved to one of my eyes. The hickory rapier struck me in the left eye and I think today it is weaker than the left from the blow.

Once we were in the yard when the Presbyterian bell sounded out - He dropped his play saying "I never allow anything to come between me and my church" That explains his life.

Another boy, tho we never were so intamate, was FRANK BEARD who became the famous chalk talk speaker at Chantauqua.

He married ELLA GOODWIN, the golden haired girl who at one time lived next door to us. Frank was a humorist and well known artist. Long since he entered the other world. So far as I know his wife still servives.

It was a winter of great revivals. All the Churches shared in the fruits.

In the dead of winter ever frozen solid.

The Campbellites had immersion. They cut thro the ice and the preacher immersed his candidates. There were two colored women, around their heads were wound white napkins. Water was cold and every dip they naturally, huh, huhed.

when they came out of the water they puffed like porpoises, much to the amusement of the boys.

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Painesville Ohio

1857 - 1859

The second winter I taught my first school. Father and I rode out in the country to see some trustees - Not at home. On our way back we chanced to meet the object of our search. Questions and answers passed. Finally he said "Can you teach Algebra" In my timidly I said "I guess so" It lost me my school.

Next attempt, I secured a school in Perry Township, which was a better one than the first. 22 days to the month and board round. On the whole a very fine district and I enjoyed my school.

But oh so homesick. At the end of 2 weeks I was to go home,7 miles.

Dismissed at 12 Sat and turned my face toward Painesville. As I turned my back on the white school house, I said I wish you'd burn up or down. But to my supreme joy it didn't burn.

That 7 mile journey I guess was made about as quickly as any 7 I ever made.

Home was Heaven.

Back to my school and my homesickness was cured. I guess for all like for I never from that til now.

I had 2 scholars in Algebra not far from my own age. They were keen and anxious to slate the teacher. I was ready and they never had the satisfaction of puzzling the teacher.

The boy in after years became a Methodist Preacher. His career was short, but he proved his worth before he joined the Saints above. HASKELL was the name.

I know nothing of the career of MISS TISDALE, She was a fine maiden.

With some of my school money I bought a watch and I surely was a man.

Many events happened at this time that made a great story.

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Painesville Ohio

1857 - 1859

1- The world celebrated debates between Lincoln and Douglas

2- Report of Burlingame entrance into Japan

3- The speaking thro the Atlantic cable

1-Never did any novel thrill me more than the debates. They were published in the N Y Tribune. I devoured them every week while they continued.

While I was not capable of analizing speeches and balancing arguments. I did comprehend enough to know Lincoln was master.

It was a peaceful war between between the little giant and the big giant. Douglas had celebrity, Lincoln, plain and homely, had yet won tho, The Little Honest Abe.

While Douglas thought he was more the conquerer, he did not realize he was digging his own grave. Nor did his election again to the Senate indicate, but that his star was in the ascendent. Lincoln saw it, He had trapped the little giant and his answers divided the Democratic party. Douglas lost, Breckenridge lost and Lincoln swept into the White House.

2-It was at this time I got ahold of the Government report of Burlingames forcing the Port of Japan. What a wonderful triumph it seemed for this country. Japan opening to Western civilization. Some 70 years have sped. Japan woke not to commerce, but ideas. She rose to greatness and became a power that makes the world tremble.The U.S. has been in terror.

But the great Earthquake and the millions of dollars sent to the sufferers from this country has changed the hostility of Japan towards us, if indeed it existed. Now the gates of the U.S. are closed against Japan. How changed.

Doors open to all the world excepting China and Japan, I pass the question.

3- I'll not forget the day where all this land was exciled with joy because the salutation came over the cable from Victoria. A flash of lights and darkness. The cable was wrapped in darkness. None the less Cyrus field had shown the possibilities of sending messeges under water.

Page 20

Painesville Ohio

1857 - 1859

Now after about 70 years, not only do cables bind the seas and nations, but Marconi uses the atmosphere. The air is full of secrets and mysteries and revolutions and radio is thrilling our ears with the secrets and wealth of nations.

We seem to live in the age of magic.

With the coming of Conference and after 2 years of most successful Pastorale father was sent to Akron, Ohio.

Page 21

Akron, Ohio

1859 - 1860

Akron in 1859 and 1860 was a place of 3,000. Now in 1924 over 200,000.

In the fall I secured a school about 2 miles away. The district beyond offered me a school if I would teach for less wages than the usual amount. I declined for which I was thankful. I didn't believe in lowering wages. Before my term was out I was getting scholars from that district.

I walked back and forth carrying my dinner and kindling in a 2 quart pail.

When the snows came, I use to cross lots and strove to see how straight lines I could make. Sighting my object, then took any object intervening and made my lines straight.

I never whipped, but one boy. Looking out of the door, I saw a big fellow beating a little. I went and cut a switch and when school called, I had him on the floor and gave him a good trouncing.

None of my scholars live in my memory. The most I can say, I did my best and the trustees counted they had a good school.

Two winters ended my teaching, but gave me a high idea of the proffesion. The honest faithful teacher earn every cent they earn. As a class they have been underpaid.

I was a member of the choir, singing base.

One Sunday night father started his congregation saying "Brethen, we are going to have a Revival and you'll have knock out this end of the church and build bigger".

Going out of the Church some folks tarried and one teacher said "How dare he say such a thing. We haven't had a Revival in 17 years".

The next Sunday night he repeated with greater emphasis the same thing. It's very boldness inspired some while others thought it never could be.

The Revival came and it was great and glorious. The old church in a few years

Page 22

gave place to one of the finest churches in Methodism.

I persued my studies alone and had a good start when I entered college.

In the spring I did a good deal of work for MR. NELSON, about the yard. I became as one of the family and the intamacy continued thro the years. All the family has joined the ranch of the Blessed ex Captain Nelson, who is a very successful banker in the city.

A strange thing happened some 3 years ago when I was on the sick list.

While I was in the breakfast room lying on a couch, Gertrude came and said there was a big man in the front room who wanted to see me. Walking thro the hall, I kept wondering what big man wants to see me.

Opening the door, I looked and quick as a flash, I said I know you, NELSON STONE.

So far as I know, I had not seen him in 50 years. A slender boy, now tall, over 200 lbs. I know him, how I don't know. He and PHILO were in the first Sunday School class I ever taught. The family consisted of the parents, MRS. BEARDSLY, PHILO, NELSON and DWIGHT and EMELINE BEARDSLY. One of the churches nobelist families I ever knew.

Emeline had a great career as the wife of REV J A KUMMER, and out living him she married the brother-in-law, MR. BARNES of Coshocton, Ohio, a coal man. Philo was a very bright noble boy, died early. MR. STONE was S. S. sup't and LIBBIE, his wife, was one of the woman whose name spells useful.

Aside from these, PAMELA GOODWIN was one of the most charming spirits I ever knew, 3 years younger than myself.

At this time the slavery question was hot. There came to Akron, JAMES G. GARFIELD. How straight he stood. Built for an athlete, red hair, in every way commanding. He gave a rousing speech for the Republican Party. Little did I think he was to be sometime in the White House.

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Akron, Ohio

1859 - 1860

I was greatly interested in the national question and wrote an article and sent it to the Akron Beacon. It was too radical on the slavery question and the Beacon refused to publish it. My brother, J.B., committed it and spoke it before the high school.

At the close of the term J.B. left home to go to Cleveland, to learn to be a telegrapher. Jane and I were the only ones. She had now become a widow. ORLO was removed by cancer while we were living in Painesville. She was a hard worker in S. S. and was a great help in the choir.

At the end of the year, Meadville put in a stong plea for father. You want your son in college and James was already there working his own way to his credit, but said while he was home with us part of the time, in Meadville he fought his own way thro medical college and became a very successful Physician and had an open office for 52 years.

Father could not well resist the plea to go to Meadville.

So, in that year, 1860, when the whole land was full of wildest excitement, we bade farewell to Akron that was so dear to us all.

Page 24

Meadville, Pa

1860 - 1862

There was no R.R. in Meadville. Linesville was the nearest point, 14 miles away.

Father and mother preceded us. I'll never forget how Jane and I staged it and how we rattled over the stones coming into Meadville. We were all quartered at SQUIRE RICHMONDS for a few days, then took possession of the parsonge.

When college opened I sat on the front seat until my name was entered and they called me STUBBS no. 2. How strange it all was, dignified Professers and some 2-3 hundred students, that looked as welcome as the outside of the houses on some city streets.

How near and dear they were to be as the days. One has to knock before the man comes to the door or window. When the man comes we forget the outside was well nigh meaningless. Sometimes the inside is not so inviting as the outside. "What a goodly outside falsehood hath". When the greenness began to wear away, and the home feeling, summer like entered my heart. The Prof and students became life itself.

This fall had it's double life. The whole country was wild with the most intense excitment. These were the days of wide awakes, processions in uniforms carrying torches, paraded the streets. Boys from surrounding villages and cities joined the ranks and there seemed to be no end to the line.

These clubs would go to other places to strenghten the popular sentiment.

Democrats would try and outvie the Republicans. Lincoln thro this section of the country, outranked Douglas. Wilder grew the heat of battle as the great election drew near.

While I lacked 3 months of majority, none the less, I was enthusiastic as if I had the decision in my hands.

As Lincoln prophesied, Douglas divided the Democrats, and Lincoln was elected President.

Then burst the storm cloud - war

Page 25

Meadville, Pa

1860 - 1862

About this time my brother, J B took charge of ther telegraph office in a corner of Thompsons book store. The south had succeeded and having pretty much all the was material in their hands began the war.

Fort Sumpton was attacked. That first gun woke the nation. I was in the store when the first news came and J B was excited, he could hardly read the tape line and my hand trembled so, that I could scarsly write the words for the press. Meadville was wild as all the North was.

We had war, books and college.

I anticipated completing my course in 3 years. I had finished so many of the works before enrolling that the faculty gave me credit for a year with some studies to complete.

I was what was called irregular. My classmates were scattered from freshmen to seniors. More of my chums were among the advances scholars.

One EPHRAIM LUDWICK and I became fast friends. Two brothers could not be nearer. Many an evening we had together, then it was the books.

I was a diligent student and so far as I know passed in all my studies the first year. Not thinking my application attracted the attention of some of the older students and I was invited to be a member of the PHI KAPPA PSI Fraternity.

In my last year I was elected to the highest office. At that time we were the only fraternity and under the ban of the faculty. We met in a room in some hotel. The second year we had the Ante room in the ???? building. Soon the Deltas had an organization, and now Greek letters are about as numerous as the letters of the alphabet.

There were 3 literary socities, Biblical, Philo, Alleghany.

Page 26

For some reason I chose the Bible. Tho at that time, I had not chose the Ministry or more properly, the Ministry had not chose me.

The speaking, debating and wailing had a great influencing in mind development.

My first attempt to make a speach was a failure. I worked hard enough to mark out the ideas I wished to advance. I would not write and commit. I thought I had it well in hand, but I did not count on the critics. I got along for a few minutes, then I lost my self possession and my thoughts vanished like some dream. I came in for the murderous blows of the critics, and felt as guilty as as if I had been robbing a hen roost. I then explained that if I ever became a speaker, I would not be bound by a manuscript. That rule I never broke in 50 years of Ministry.

In my second year I competed for the Hunter prize. DR. HUNTER, kind sole, lovely man, established a prize, Clark Commentaries. How many entered the list, I do not know. One of the best of our society A J LINDSEY was my competetor. The topic was Paul. Wonder if sometime he would like to hetchel the millions who have mercilessly abused his name and misconstrued and misunderstood his word. What Peter said of his wordings, will hold just as good now. Many wrest them them to their own destruction.

I won. News came to the Parsonage while I was busy in some other part of town. Father started to find me. Mother said he was like a hen with his head off. It was an illustration of how intensly he was wrapped in my life. Such moments show the greatness of our Father and Mother.

The hum drum of life leaves theirs as ordinary, or cold, while such a scene shows the grandness and glory of their charecters.

Second year, The feeling of the students was as intense as that pervading the North.

There were some southern students from Tennessee, Some of us learned they were saying

Page 27

treasonable things. That could not go unchallenged. I was one of a committee of 5 to wait on the Southerns and notify them, they must retract their saying or leave in 48 hours.

DR. LOOMIS, president, called us into his study and tried to intimidate our hot blood. It was no use, we were defient and refused to retract one ioda from our position.

Inside of the prescribed time, the boys from the south took their departure.

At this time our enthusiasm run high. Someone procured a flag and we determined to fly it from the dorm of Bently Hall.

I was mounting the last difficult point when James over took me and said, I am taller and can get over the difficulty.

He took the flag and in a few minutes the stars and stripes were for the first time waving in the winds of Heaven.

What finally became of that noblest emblem of Liberty that flies respected, honored of all nations, I do not know.

There were outbreaks of patriotism and a college company was formed by Cox Ayre that distinguished itself in the war.

EPHRAIM LUDWICK was used up by what you call frog felon or whitetow caused by our work in the hayfield. It finally became so bad that he gave up college for several days and came to the parsonage and slept on a lounge in the study. His suffering was intense. One day I went with him to DR. BEAL to have his hand lanced. The dr took his hand and was about to plunge the lance when Ludwick drew back his hand. Then the dr put himself between the hand and his (Ludwicks) eyes and again the hand was withdrawn. Back we came and nature finally opened the suffering hand. Relief came, but it was a long time before the wounds were healed. Now this same man that was a coward at the sight of a lance, afterwars distinguished himself in many battles, lost an arm, and won the Colonely of his regiment, 112 New York Inf.

Recovering from his hand wound, he had an invitation to take the Forestville M. E. Church.

Why the vacancy, I do not know. I said go.

Page 28

To my sorrow and joy, he went. He had no end of success. The war fever was on. He went out speaking for volunteers. At some place, some boys took the challenge. We will go if you will. He faced the call and went making a record for himself and his regiment. That arm gave him trouble for as long as he lived. He tried the Ministry, but was forced to abandon it. He was given charge of a soldiers home in Maine, then in Milwaukee, and finally in the Presidio in San Francisco. An accident terminated his life and his remains are in the Presidio cemetery. Noble man, hero, died for his country.

Ludwick and I started a Sunday School about 3 miles in the country, The little house was packed. The second year I had it alone. Ludwick being in the Army.

The school house was packed and the school flourished. What lasting benefits came to the boys and girls and teachers. I have no means of knowing.

In the Meadville S.S, my sister, Jane and I took pains in drilling the school in songs. Jane easily picked up the tunes and I soon caught the melody, and that school certainly could sing. One enthusiastic girl, ELLA ADRAIN, raised money enough to buy a large edition of Shakespere and the school presented it to me.

I had a class of wide awake boys, made up largely of sons of the Professors, DR. LOOMIS' son GEORGE, DR. BARKERS son, PROF HAMNELTS 2 sons, PROF MARVINS son FRANK and others whos name are to the number of 12.

Some of these boys I know are gone, but where are the rest and what their record, I can only guess. Let us hope they turned out well.

One Saturday, I went out into my S.S. district to visit a friend, Wint, his name. I think he was a cooper and a Bee man. Nicest kind of people.

Coming back into town I found the boys all excited over war news. Will you go? I

Page 29

Meadville

on every hand. Do you mean business? I said, yes, yes. We arranged to have a meeting at the chapel monday morning.

The next evening JOHN BAIN was to preach a war sermon. That will add fuel to the fire, we thought. The excitment was so great DR. LOOMIS thought the college would be broken up.

When I came from my S.S. I saw JOHN BAIN and DR. LOOMIS enter the Parsonage. That forbodes disaster.

The Church was crowded upstairs and down. LOOMIS sat in the alter looking as tho his last friend was gone.

BAIN preached a great sermon, but out when he came to the students he dashed our faces with cold water. It was just as necessary for the students to prepare for his after the war. As it was that some boys should enter the Army.

When I came down from the choir, I was face to face with DR. LOOMIS.

"By what authority did you appoint that war meeting in the Chapel? (By what authority was a great expression and became a word among the students)by authority of the committee. Monday morning the boys assembled in front of the Chapel and were given to understand, No meeting there.

Over Sunday boys had been telegraphing home and the replies, no no, had cooled the war ardor.

But down we marched to the Court house. When the test was made only 10 were found who were willing to face the music. FRANK ARTER dubbed us the immortal 10 and we all went back to College.

Some of the boys I knew. HARVE HENDERSON I knew well, tho he graduated 4 years ago. Harvey was tall, well formed and noble Lawyer for a few years, then for a few years was a Methodist preacher. As an illustration of the man. When at Forestville he found a ??? forsaken man just outside the village.

Page 30

Meadville

1860 - 1862

living in a miserable shack. Harvey left his wife, took care of that man 5 or 6 weeks, devoting his attention to every want as if waiting on his own brother. When death took the unfortunate creature, Harvey returned to his home.

His wife gave him no peace while in the Ministry, and he returned to the law, settled in Pittsburg. He lived to be 84, i think, making a noble record in law and his church.

JAMES R MILLS was a fast friend. He entered the Ministry on leaving college. He made a fine name, was a minister of Mark. Long since he went to his reward.

FRANK ARTER in the class following me, was quit a chum. He has had a remarkable career. He has done more for his Alma Mater than any other graduate and for his Conference. He has given $100,000 for Conf-Annuity on condition the Conf raise $400,000.

The story is that on graduating he started a refinery on a small scale in Cleveland. He was prospering. It was at a time when the Standard was buying up all the stills or crushing them. They came to him and offered him $25,000. Agreeing to pay him that amount every year as long as he lived. Wisely he has accepted and has become a rich man and appears in good health at 80 or 82.

TOLLERTON in a lower class was one of my friends. He married one of the finest girls ever was, and choicest friend of LETITIA ADRAIN.

In after years TOLLERTON became Judge in Cedar Falls. Both he and his wife passed away years ago.

ED CUMMINGS of Poland, Ohio was a visitor at our house. Bright, Jolly, Graduated the year before me. Entered the Ministry, traveled a few years in the Eris Conf. Soon went west. Was for a time missionary in the Black Hills. Energetic, successful Minister. Health failed him and he settled in Springfield, Il and for a time was in the milling business. Some 3 or 4 years ago he joined the celestials.

JAMES BRAY was in my class. Became a Pitts Conf man for 3 years, then joined the ???,

Page 31

Meadville

1860 - 1862

as his wife was the daughter of REV J.E. CHAPMAN. Will have more to say on him later.

J. RILEY WEAVER was in my class, a good student. Entered the Army, Was under fire in Charleston. After the war he was appointed Councel to Burundi, Italy, which position he held for some years. After coming home he became a Proffesor in DePau University. I had a letter from him a few years ago, shortly before he answered the roll call on high.

ALEXANDER ASHLEY, we considered the Patriarch in the Biblical Society. We thought he would distingquish himself as a preacher. He entered the Army and proved a good soldier. He fell into the signal Corps.

The war ending he became member of the weather bureau and there remained for many years, and then entered Heaven.

REV. FRY and FRANK FRY, who were among my friends, entered the law in Meadville and so remained as long as they lived.

TRUMP THOMAS was my room mate for a term. He came to the Pacific Coast. I wrote him in 1915, but he was not inclined to speak of college days.

DANA HUBBARD was in the same building. He was the son of a Senator from West Virginia, distinguished, wealthy.

To my mind, Dana was one of the most promising young men in college, He disposed of his allowance before a month was gone. He was given to borrow pencil and paper and stamps from me. Who was going thro college on a mer pettence.

One Saturday, rainy, disagreeable, Trump and I were in our room. Dana went down to town, about noon he returned, came into our room. He had been drinking and was in condition to be noisy. He backed against the door and began to spout. What the speach was about, I do not recall, something familiar, he became quite noisy, so much so, MRS BARKER, the widow of President Barker, was much

Page 32

disturbed. Her footsteps were heard coming up the stairs. The two boys hid and left me to open the door. Mrs B. was a fine looking woman, one of the best in Meadsville. She knew me as the son of a minister and I felt ashamed.

Young men she said, I will thank you to make less noise. Innocent, I had to take the reproach. This incident would not be worth mentioning, but after all it was prophetic of the life and fate of Dana. He that should have made his mark on the world, lived a worthless life and died early.

Here I had my first experience in sitting up with the dead. JOHN BAIN, son of GEO BAIN and grandson of the preacher, died of diptheria at 6-7, bright, promising lad. The father, a one time student of Alleghany, a man of abilities, but a life cursed by rum and ruined by that demon.

Watching with the sick and the dead entered largely into my experience as a Minister.

MOLLY NORTON, daughter of Preacher NIRAIN NORTON and Mollie Carr and LETITIA ADRAIN were among the young ladies prominent in our church, the two first members of the choir. Letitia 2 years after became my wife.

Dr. LOOMIS was President, Prof Hamnett was second and lived to be a hundred and served the longest of any Prof in Alleghany College. A.B. HIDE was a brainy man, was taken to Denver to live to a ripe old age. Prof MARTIN was scholarly, Prof MARVIN was the scientist, well liked. He and his son FRANK became Professors in Lawrence, Kansas. DR. HUNTER, one of the best men ever, was author of My Heavenly Home is Bright and Fair, sung thro out the Methodist Church. Prof WILLIAMS, the mathemetician, went to war and soon after died a mile in the country. His wife was a sweet, beautiful charactor. As his remains were lying in the parlor, the last one to take leave was she. Remaining what seemed a long time, some of the family went into the room to lead her out.

Page 33

A beautiful sight met their gaze. The wife and mother had placed her arm about his neck, her cheek resting on his cheek and she had gone to join her husband.

I think all of the Professors are in the shining ranks above.

The last term of the year, I was permitted to spend with my people in Chagrin Falls, Ohio.

Here my sister and I were busy in Sunday school work. I was induced to try and preach before presiding elder W.F. WILSON at a quarterly Conf. I had, I guess, a splurging speech fully commited, but had the grit to go thro, tho my memory nealy deserted me. Long since it went into oblivion.

How will I recall the evenings when the Cleveland paper came. Father and mother would seat themselves and father would try and find if Johns regiment was in any battle. Oh, the anxiety of those days.

Going into any country church, you only had to look to read the sorrow that had come. So every congregation silently told the horrors of war. The Church and the Little Red school house told the story of sacrifice and triumph.

What studies remained of College, I finished but as I could.

I prepared my oration and had it my tongues end. The first sentence is all that remains of that immortal speech. "We are in the midst of Revolution". The Revolution marches on, but my speech was never delivered. In those days the seniors had a speech at Commencement, abandoned now, The great day was now at hand. I must go and give account for myself. Now I must soon meet the great world. Would I prove myself worth?

Page 34

Meadville

And I was on my way to see the winding up of college affairs.

When my train stopped at a little country town, Orange, I looked out of the window and I saw a sight that startled me. A few rods away was a train slowly moving, and standing in a big open door frieght car was A. JOHNSON, the Valadictorian of our class. What does it all mean? There was no opportunity to pass a word, and in ignorance I arrived in Meadville.

The town was bedlam. people lined the streets, moving to and fro. Not knowing what they were about

Soon I learned college was dismissed. Students scattered to their distant homes. LEE,LEE had invaded the sacred soil of Penn and soon Washington would be threatened. Now there must be no childs play. The Governor has issued call for troops. At once I entered what was largely to be a College Company and next day we were headed for camp HOWE. Before going out we were treated to a meal provided by Pitts ladies. Coffee and bread and fresh onions. Good, no mistake I had blessed those women to this day, and they kept that going thro the war. The war had never been fought, but for the loyal women

At camp Howe we took the oath of Allegience -July 9, 1863. We took the oath for United States service. Our camp finally was on open field, now east of Williamsburg. It was in the boiling sun, but good for our health. Camp life was more or less monotonous. Yet we had our diversions. Harvey H. and CHAFFIN, a Unitarian preacher, use to amuse us playing chess. Chaffin played blind folded, but he always came out ahead.

I had a Sunday off and visited Rev'd MRS. EBBERTS family, who were fathers great friends.

Page 35

when we lived in Revenna. In the evening I went to church in the famous Brimstone Corner. I was shown to the very front seat. When the Minister said let us pray, I was in doubt as to whether to kneel, as on the reserve, nobody knelt.

When I did turn to kneel, I saw the vast audience, without exception on their knees. It greatly impressed me, but someone told me afterwards that the boys and girls are whispering and flirting, so I changed my views. One night I went across the fields to the WILKINS home, where lived 2 Alleghany boys.

On July 3, while Gettysburg was raging some of the boys claimed they heard the far away cannons. I'm inclined to think it was imagination.

That's as near as we got to the great battle.

One hot evening while we were sitting and lying on the ground, the wickedest man in our company gave ua a talk on God. The stars were his tent. It was a surprise and astonishment.

Could it be possible, that man who seemed to have no respect for God or man could after all have sublime thoughts. Perhaps bad men think more about God than we suppose.

After while, few days, our company was sent into Ohio, down the river. Morgan was making his celebrater raid thro Ohio. We were sent to guard the fords. Our cavalry was in hot pursuit. We went to Stubenville and LaGrange. Now Brilliant, back to Wellsville, and up to Salineville. There was a gun boat a few miles below us that prevented Morgan crossing the river. We headed him off on front and Shacklefored behind bagged his troops.

Surrender was necessary, Our company was chosen to guard some 600 prisoners to Columbus. Morgans men were a mortey looking set. Going thro villages, they made way with all the clothing and were dressed like speckled birds.

On the way by rail we saw where Morgans troops had burned bridges. They confiscated horses along the way.

Page 36

Arrived at Columbus, we delivered the troops to the Provost Guard.

We took The liberty to camp on the Capitol grounds that night. Next day we were trained for Pittsburg.

Shortly we were mustard out, I rec'd $17.00 and a few cents, and my uniform.

Coming home PERRY CARSON was killed. The only man we lost. Our train parted and our coach fell behind. The engineer discovering the break backed his partof the train and crashed into our car. Perry seeing the danger leaped for the break, and as he seized it, he was crushed between the cars.

We stopped at some station, laid him on the floor. Now our wickedest man ordered the few who were present to stand aside, as he would care for the victim. In a few minutes he grew sick and it fell to me to Minister to the dying man.

A few of us went to a country and saw our companion laid to rest. CHAFFIN performing the last sad rights.

When we, the Company derailed and appeared on the streets, Meadville gave us a great ovation.

The history of our company will be found in a paper by one of my most loyal friends, Comrade MOSLEY. He copied it from the United States records showing we were in the membership of the G.A.R.

While we were in the service, the Erie Conference met in July in Ashtabula, Ohio, and I was read with 22 others into the Erie Conference.

I was appointed junior preacher on the Ellington N. Y charge. REV S.W. DAY was senior preacher.

And now I was to face the great world.

I had behind me my College, and Society training, a few books, no sermons and no experience in preaching.

Page 37

Ellington Charge

September- The frosts were on the pumpkin vines, and the corn was badly nipped by an early frost.

A camp meeting was in progress near Cherry Creek. Never was I in a more embarrasing position before or since. They called on me to preach. I felt like the prodigul son and I spoke a few minutes about that luckless forlorn. Shabby penitent youth and sat down in dismay. What my people thought, I never knew. They were to kind and forbearing ever to offer ant critisism, but when they fixed my salary for 10 months at $190.00, Gold their bring 290.00. I knew how they felt.

I managed to say, Brethen that wouldn't pay my board. Board round, Do you mean it? Yes, yes we will be glad to have you. I will and that settled that.

Now, Ellington Charge consisted of 6 appointments. Ellington headquarters, Cherry Creek next in importance, Gerry Hall, Waterboro, Millspaugh School house, and a deserted church at Clear Creek, where I preached only once.

L.W. Day, largeman - 200lbs, was a good preacher. Serving a few years, he fell into the East Ohio where he was recognized as a man of ability. Naturally he bore the air of the manner of the Superior officer. We got along admirably.

How it came about, I can't tell, but my first home was with the INGERSOLLS, 1 mile from Waterboro. While I did find their places, I yet spent more time with the Ingersolls. Uncle Peter had no love for preachers or churches, yet he proved one of my best friends. Mrs Ingersol was a women of remarkable charactor. Peter was given to drink and Mrs Ingersoll and her sister managed to get the farm in her name. This kept Peter on the whole a somewhat sober man. I never saw him when he seemed in any way under the influance of liquor. Libby was one of the very ??? ???? ladies on the charge. Charles was

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Ellington Charge

making his way in the world and became one of my truest friends.

Lambert, the youngest, a fine young fellow, married later unfortunately, and soon ended his career.

It was necessary to have horses and buck board. The harness was the gift ROB ADRAIN. When I settled in my new home I had $25.00. I gave my note for $50.00 on buck board and $45.00 on the horse. Before the notes were due, I paid them in full. My home training served me then and all thro life. Mother knew the value of a dollar, schooled in the severities of the Ministers life. That event had been the prophet of my business method "pay as you go".

I took Uncle Sams clothing for every day life. I had a fair suit, but little worn, I made serve for Sunday. A new suit, never worn, I put in my trunk for I expected to marry at the end of the year.

My whole Ministry has been in the rigid discipline of financial hard strugling. My debts have ever been paid and none left behind to shame the next Minister.

My buck board had a box fixed under the seat. In this, my Bible, Shakespeare, books for conference study, paper, ink and pen. Thus, I was never without the tools of business. Going to a new place I would be given a new room where I would do my studying. In the afternoon, many times I would make calls in the neighborhood coming to know my people.

My headquarters where I kept my trunk and clothing were with MR. & MRS. BOICE, 1 mile north of Cherry Creek. What glorious people they were. Kindness itself, like a mother she was. They belonged to the Heavenly land while here on earth. Heaven does slip down into there mundane spheres to give us a fore taste of what awaits us on the other side. When I lived in Forestville MR. BOICE came to live with his daughter, MRS. THATCHER. I visited him often.

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Conference 1864, Wedding

Some 2 weeks before Conference, I went to Meadville.

On the 29th of June 1864, I was happily married to Letitia Adrain.We took train, James for Cleveland and other places. Father and the newly wedded went to Chargrin Falls.

Tish remained until after conference. Conference was held at Greenville, Pa. Father was sent to be guest with a prominent family. I was asked to be a guest, but A. J. Merchant chose otherwise and counting it all up I tried 11 different places.

A Large class was examined. We ventured to ask question till one of the examiners said, Young men, I am not on examination. We all passed, and so far as I was concerned, I never fell down any year of the 4. As the years have fled, I noticed none of the old books are any longer in the course of study. The tests are far more severe and more students come from the Seminaries. At this writing the old type of preachers are hurling in criticisms that the books are unorthodox. Drifting to Rationalism and higher criticism and weakened Theology.

Modernism, Liberalism, Fundamentalism are the words bandied about and threatening to make havoc in all the churches.

Where was I going? That never troubled me. I was only too glad to be counted worthy to serve any people.

My name was read out for Hamlet, Junior preacher, with W.W. WARNER Sr.

Page 40

Hamlet

Wife and I found our way to Kennedyville. Where someone met us with the buckboard and we drove to the INGERSOLLS.

Next day we stopped at Cherry Creek with the Boices for dinner. Then on to college where we put up with Lucius HUBBARD.

In a day or so we were ensconced on 2 rooms just across from the church, in the house with MRS. MILLER. Two rooms seemed a prison to one born in a good brick house and in a town with 3 to 4 thousand inhabitants.

But in all the quarter of a century and more, no one ever heard a complaint from my wife. Those 2 rooms were a paradise and life to us was ever a joy and so it remains to this day.

My parishoners thot my wife was a sweet 16, so fresh and rosy her complextion.

W.W.Warner, my senior preacher, was one of the finest, noblest men I ever knew. He lived at Hamlet and the out appointments were Pine Valley and The Abbey 3 miles from Forestville. We lived in College and the out appointments were Nashville and Dayton Summit (now Dayton). I spent 2 weeks at my end of the circuit then 2 at Hamlet.

When we set up housekeeping, tho on a small scale, we had many things to buy.

Over to Forestville we drove and there bought a stove and dishes that served for many years. It seems to me now there could be no nicer people than were about ???. How dear they came to be. There was one Uncle DANIEL PROSSERE who has never been surpassed in my love. One day he called. After chatting awhile we went into the door yard, still conversing, He put his hand in his pocket and took out $5.00 and handed my wife. This is yours, you are not to report it and made his remark.

Hamlet

At Dayton we housed more with GILES JOHNSON than anyone else. What a lovely family. Mr. Johnson was oddity, true blue. He went about his chores, pipe in his mouth, the bowl upside down. At table there was always a pitcher of cider. No one else participated. He began in apple time and he kept it going until next apple time.

Two lovely daughters, a stepson, FRANK BAILEY who ended his career as Rear Admiral Bailey. His mother, 3rd or 4th wife, was a woman never excelled as a wife.

There was another family by the name of SHEPARD. He was a rousing Democrat, but one of the best natured men. But we never met, but had a lively time. Once at table I outmanuvered him and the family enjoyed the joke.

One Sunday night we shared their hospitality. It was winter, snow 4 feet on the level. Some good friend loaned us a pony and finest style, we circled around our parish. This day we were snuggled in, crossed the RR track where the runner struck a stone, and over we went scrambling in the snow. Our pony stopped, turned her head as much to say, What's up. Well, we were and scrambled to our places and on our homeward way. So deep was the snow turn out, places were provided. Woe to the fellow that paid no heed, for turning was well nigh impossible.

Over near Hamlet lived CHARLES JUDD. She and my wife became fast friends. My wife taught her how to make yeast bread. As well as I can judge it was the introduction of that make of this day, in Chaut Co.

She had a sister Libbie Richardson. Meeting her at Mrs. Judds one time, she said she had been offered a position in the Fredonia Normal, but was in doubt about accepting. I said, accept it by all means. Shortly after she had the position.

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Hamlet

In a fire that broke out in the building, while trying to liberate some of the girls who were doomed to perish, she lost her own life. She saved others, herself she could not save.

CHARLES JUDD at this time was leader of the choir. We were always sure of good singing. Thro the passing years, I think the church has had its ups and downs.

It might have been my first sermon. I preached the funeral sermon of a baby. It made quite an impression and I heard of it many years after.

That reminds me. At Cottage a MR. BLAIR lost a lovely little girl about 10 or 12 years of age. Diptheria, in those days everyone was taken to church. As I stood looking down into the face of the child, I thought it was one of the most beautiful faces I ever saw. I made allusion in my remarks, How like an angel she looked. Strange how a word makes an impression. It was consolation to the family. And the child became Angel in the hearts of the family.

In October we had a heavy snow storm and wife and I rode to Asbury appointment in a heavy fall of snow. After the service we rode through slush and snowflakes down to Waterboro to th Ingersolls. We were on our way to J.B.s wedding. They were married in Painesville, Ohio, the home of SARAH HICKOK. They had been courting for some years, since they were sweet 16. It proved a happy marriage, broken only by the death of J.B just as we were coming to California.

The Asbury appointment I always enjoyed. Pine Valley was as it seems to me only a school house and a few houses. Now there is a flourishing village, and a beautiful church.

In the summer W.W. WARNER began revival services and carried on very successfully.

While my Senior was not called a great preacher he was a most beloved man, and he reaped because he had a great Gospel heart. By a former wife he had a son, COL WARNER who lived in Erie several years. When in the war

Page 43

with several others he was captured. While the Confed's were going thro the prisoners, his wits served him a good turn. Having his pipe he stuffed a $10.00 into the bowl, sprinkled some tobacco on the top. Lighted the pipe and was very vigorously smoking when he was searched.

Thus he saved his money, which saved him many a good turn while he was prisoner.

The subsequent history of W.W.W. is unknown to me. He went west and died somewhere in some state. The last I heard his widow was in Texas.

When the year ended the Conference thot I served long enough Junior and sent me to Clymer Village, Chaut Co.

In May my wife went to Meadville where May 25, 1865 my firstborn, Joseph Chase was born. It was certainly a great event. To think I was a father. We had brought forth an immortal being. To us committed a soul and what it would be was largley in our hands. He still lives and is one of the finest physicians in Chicago.

In January 1865 I was made a Mason in the Cherry Creek Lodge. Retaining my membership there till I went to Randolph.

Page 44

Clymer

1865 - 1867

Last of July 1865 we entered the most overly inviting parsonage in Clymer. It was something to have a parsonage and a people to be your people and assume all responsibilities.

Clymer was, and I guess always will be, a village with 2 or 3 hundred inhabitants, a tannery, 2 stores and immense deserted Baptist Church and a modest M.E. Church that served the religious wants of the towmship during my 2 years.

How things change. Shortly after my departure the Baptists sold their shell of a church to the Brethen, who moved a little way, then built an elequent brick. The Holland Dutch, a large colony on the hill, built a modest Congregational Church down in the Village.

After years the Methodists are the only ones who hold service.

There were 2 out appointments, North Clymer and Town Line.

We became endeared to the people. What good people we found. As the out churches had service in the afternoon, it gave the evening free and we always took Chase and remained over night with some family, going home Monday morning.

At North Clymer was the BLY family. Mary was a sweet sugar, Bernett & Herman and the Mother

Typhoid early took Burnett. It was after I was gone. Looking out one morning, the spring just breathing its welcome he said "What a beautiful World", but the more beautiful world claimed his spirit.

There were choice families, but time would not permit me to mention all.

Town Line was a precious place. I was told before going there to beware of a certain MR. RICH. How strangely things come out in this world. That man became one of my best friends nor did I discover anything crooked in his life.

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Clymer

1865 - 1867

The CHADWICKS were lovely people. He was one of those easily see the dark side and had a tendancy to gloominess. His wife one of the mild, cheerful, seeing the bright side. She was the mainstay of the household.

BARKER has been bookkeeper in Jamestown there many years.

Jean was a school teacher, lively, happy, true and pure. She came to our house in Randolph to be married. She dies as a result of a fall since we came to California.

There was a Minister MARKHAM who use to hear me preach on the Town Line over 50 years ago. He is a member of our post.

At Clymer one of the stores was kept by HART AYRES and IRA BEECHER. The other was owned by MR GALLARP and MR GREEN.

The Tannery was owned by MR. WILLIAMS, a lame man. OTIS HINKLEY a surveyor lived across from the stores.

MR AYRES was not a member of the church, but there was no one more regular in his attendence. The friendship established endured a lifetime. His wife I buried while I was living in Parker City. His second wife, a strong spiritulist was a very lovely charector, I buried when I was in Warren. They invited a MRS LOWE to be present at the services, but she failed to come. Mr Ayres for 44 years a friend, I buried when I was living in Cattaraugus.

He was a strong charactor and a devout believer in God. But for some conscientious scruples never became a church member.

OTIS HINKLEY was one of our best friends. I o't to say the family. Their daughter, KITTY, became a famous singer.

Mr. G proved to be one of the most bitter foes I ever had. It turned out because I was a Mason. The waged relentless hostility, but I never uttered a word in the pulpit.I let him and one or two others do all the fighting.

Before it was over it proved to their sorrow.

At the end of my first year, Mr. Ayers

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Clymer

1865 - 1867

asked me if I would come back next year. I said if the people want me, I am willing to return.

He said, I am in the store and the people far and near come to do business and I know they want you and I returned.

When it became known I was a Mason, 3 or 4 persons set out to ruin me.

It was a quiet kind of war. As I said, no word ever came from me. My friends in and out of the church, and Masons far and near arranged, unknown to me, a donation. It was given in the Baptist church, the coldest night, zero couldn't beat it. Snow was deep. They came from Corry and Columbus and about Clymer and it was a crowd. They left me $400.00 and $40.00 in provisions.

That settled the question of Masonry in that community forever. Nor have I ever had the question raised from that day to this.

Another matter rose that was farther reaching.

A DR. SPRATT, who was a partner of my brother James, who was settled in Corry, came with his wife to board with us.

Now I had in my library $18.00 worth of books sent by some Unitarian organization to every preacher in our conference.

We had various discussions on no end of topics, but always good naturedly.

Unbeknown to me, the Dr circulated about town that I was a Universalist.

When my presiding Elder came to hold his 4th Quarter, he heard these reports. Had he come to me as a father or brother and talked with me, I could have settled it in no time. But he was smooth and wanted to know where I would like to go when Conference appointed. I said I had no choice, I would like to be on the R R as I could go home at times to see Father and Mother.

When the Elder reached home he sent me letter. ??? ???? know my views about the

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Clymer

future.

I was indigent, Why didn't he asked while he was with me? Father was in England. I could council with no one. I replied, he could find my views in such a passage of Scripture.

It settled nothing. When we came to Conference and my name was called. He said, there is a question on which the Brother is not quite settled.

He stated the question. There was a buzz thro the Conference. A committee of 5 was appointed, and it turned out they were my friends. I stated the case, I had their sympathy. I said I had followed the books and had never publicly or privately said anything contrary to their teachings.

I wrote a sentence and it was passed to the Conference. The case was settled, and the mass of preachers were perfectly satisfied.

However a few would cross my path in some way endevoring to spoil my prospects. None the less, The Lord hath dealt bountifully with me and I made no complaint.

If I could tell of all the good things that we enjoyed in Clymer, it would take a whole book and I would have no place for the other places I served.

I was frequently called back for funerals and weddings.

There was a school exhibition given in the Baptist church. The last on the program was marked "Tablean Vivang". No one has a suspicion as to what was coming. At that time a young couple stepped on stage and I married them.

Boundless applause.

The Conference sent me to Randolph, N. Y.

Page 48

Randolph N.Y.

1867-1869

Randolph was and is a beautiful town on the Erie RR. Population at that time was about a thousand.

There was no parsonage. We secured the upstairs in a house nearby, owned by a Presbyterian Minister living in Gowanda, by the name of Cowles. (He has a daughter now living in Pasadena.)

Randolph was then a station but very feeble. Neat little church.

At the first Official meeting, it was comical. The officials were puzzled. They wanted to do the best they could, but it was so little they felt ashamed. Finally Erastus Ingersoll said, "We think we can raise a certain amount in the church, and if you take well, we can raise $200 more from the outside." I laughed and said, "That's putting a fellow on his good behavior." Well, it was raised in a donation, and thus it went in the 2 years and 3 months we were there (Bishop Ames made the 3 months a year).

We had some great times in that church. Some Sunday nights we had a Sunday school lesson on the blackboard. Rev. Stocker, who was our pastor at the East Village would come over, and that church was crammed up stairs and down.

One night I had my text on Life. I made it as glorious as possible and wound up by saying, "and this wonderful being is going out in the dark", and dismissed the Congregation.

My, but there was a sensation. Then I said, "I will conclude next Sunday evening." Be sure there was a full house. Then I showed up Immortality.

Midway between the two towns, on a commanding knoll, stood proudly, overlooking miles, Chamberlain Institute.

For many years it exerted a great influence over 2 or 3 counties.

Rev. A.S. Dobbs was at the head the first year. When I went there I supposed he was

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Randolph N.Y.

a great man in the Community. Maybe the second or third Sunday, I invited him into the pulpit to make a prayer. During the week, 2 of the brethren said, "You had Dobbs in the pulpit Sunday." "Yes. I supposed he was in great favor." "Well, the less you have him in the pulpit, the better for you and us." The cat was out of the bag. He never was in that pulpit while I was there.

Going to Warren next Spring, riding with him, he gave me a terrible berating. I said I was sorry, but I had to choose between him and the church, and I chose my church.

Mr. Dobbs was a great Preacher, but a bad man. Let him pass.

He was succeeded by Prof. Post, who was there a year, when he was followed by Dr. Edwards, a man of great abilities, and exerted a good influence in the Conference, and gave the climax in the history of Chamberlain.

After several years he became a paralytic and lived in a wheelchair for several years. His wife was a lovely woman, but for some years was mentally afflicted.

One of our prominent families was the Van Rensellairs. At one time I sat at table when there were 5 generations. The old lady lived to be over a hundred. At 100 she was on the platform at Chautauqua, with Gen'l Grant.

Mrs. Van, active in church and a very talented woman, had a daughter Martha, who is a Prof. in Cornell, and is ranked by many as one of the ablest women in America.

While here, Marion Bain and Maggie Adrain lived with us nearly 2 years, attending Chamberlain Constitute.

I removed my Masonic membership from Cherry to Randolph Lodge 359, and it has remained there to this day, making 59 years a mason, and 57 in Randolph. We had some noble men in our company.

James Johnson and Rodney Crowley were prominent lawyers. Sunday mornings

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Randolph N.Y.

they came to church, Bibles under their arms, taking part in the reading of the scriptures.

Before our church provided the Psalter, I instituted reading the Bible with my people. James Johnson finally united with the Congregational Church.

Rodney was skeptical about the Future. At the 50th Anniversary of the lodge, I was present with C.O. Mead, each speaking. Rodney came to me afterwards, remarking, "I would give everything if I could believe as you do." The cloud never lifted.

Charles and Erastus Ingersoll were among the best friends I had. Both are still living, I think. Erastus resides in the eastern part of the state in paper industry. Chas has not been so fortunate. Marriage not very happy. Where he is, I know not.

Chase came to be 4 years old, and was as perfect physically as any child ever was.

One day Jas Stocker living at East Randolph the Pastor, and I were playing croquet in the lot next to the parsonage.

Chase was amusing himself when a sheep, before we could intervene, butted him in the hip, and the beginning of years of trouble was at our door. How that boy suffered for years. At first Rheumatism had the credit, but at last Hip disease disclosed itself.

When the full fact stared me in the face, it seemed to me I could never bear the idea of my boy growing up to be a cripple.

Yet few things in my life have more broadened my mind, or given so much sympathy for unfortunate humanity.

Sometimes our misfortunes God turns to our highest good.

At this time too our sorrow was like a great calamity thrust upon us.

Our second child was born, Mary. Seems to me I never saw a more beautiful or perfect child. The Angels had the best of it, and lo these many years she has been my guardian Angel. It was a sad journey to Meadville, where Chas Ingersoll and I laid

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Randolph N.Y.

[her] among the tree and flowers, sweetly to rest.

One by the name of Morse was our chorister, and we had singing that would been a credit to some city church.

Randolph was noted for its Infidelity. For some reason, they never sought to cross my path. A few years after, matters culminated, and a lawyer challenged a debate. Leslie, Presiding Elder, accepted and said he would furnish the Antagonist. Rev. A.N. Craft was our representative. I went on from Corry and heard the debate. It continued 4 days.

The Lawyer was the worst whipped man you ever saw. In sheer desperation he made a scurrilous attack on the birth of Christ.

Quick as a wink, spontaneously, the whole Congregation rose to its feet in protest. He backed out, but made a second slur, and the audience was again on its feet.

That was the lash, that live wire scorched his own back.

From that day no man has ever risen to challenge the Bible.

Now I speak of a deed ne'er to be forgotten, that was shown me by a man who never entered church, tho' his wife and little girl were members.

One night an envelope was slipped under the door. Opening I found $20, with a sentence. "This may help you in your trouble." It surely did, for Chase cost us all we could gather in our scant support.

The Gospel is not confined to buildings. The goodness of Christ actuates men sometimes where they would perhaps be slow to credit His loving hand.

Two years and 3 months fled, and I never received an unkind word.

Bishop Ames assigned me to Pleasantville, when some delegate from Tidioute had been notified that I was to be their pastor. It made a commotion. The people put in a protest, over 200 names.

Page 52

Pleasantville

1869 - 1871

Elder Leslie sent me word not to move till I heard from him. I waited two weeks and the suspense was painful. Finally I went to Corry to ascertain the cause. He informed of the difficulty ans was trying to get Bishop AMES to make the change. Ames was a ??? man and not to be caught by letter or telegram. So Leslie ended the difficulty and I went to Pleasantville.

As one of my members, one of the best in the church, said after I was getting along finely, Do you know why? NO, well my predecessor told the people that he feared I would not be able to go forward in building the new Church.

Would that be called a white lie? Soon all things were going well. The church went forward to completion and in due time was successfully dedicated.

REV. ALFRED WHEELER and REV. D.C. OSBORN were the Ministers and a crowning day was had.

The old church was moved in the rear and served for our Sunday School and prayer meetings.

GEORGE SQUIR was the superentendent and a very afficient officer, he proved. Thro my advice a few years later, he entered the Ministry.

At this time the oil business was booming all about the territory. Tho gradually moving away from Pleasentville.

For some time I preached at the Enterprise in the afternoon. At the first place I preached in an engine house, while the engine was pumping oil.

At Enterprise there was a good sized school house. Benson and his bro-in-law were among my hearers, and warm friends. Lovely people they were and have since passed on to the better world. WILLIS BENEDICT, not a member, proved one of my best friends. When in Erie I was called back to the funeral of his charming wife.

At Pleasentville there were hosts of friends. Manly Beebe and wife, tho not in our church. Mr. B was a lawyer of

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Pleasantville

1869 - 1871

distinction. When at Corry I was called to minister his funeral.

Mr.WM NEWKIRK lived only a few rods from the parsonage. What a help they were in the church and I never have had any more ardent friends. Judge CONNELLY and family made rich thro oil, were great supporters of the church and warm friends. SINGLETON DUNHAM, oil rich, paid largely into the church. He was married to his second wife by me.

On Thanksgiving night of my second year, in a prayer meeting in the new church, a very quiet meeting. J BRADY and wife rose and said, they gave themselves to Christ. Soon they were rec'd into the church. J Brady was a catholic receiving $75.00 a month, big pay in those days, as a telegrapher for some oil company.

After his conversion, he notified the company that he would not telegraph on Sundays. He was immediately discharged. It's a strange history. His family was large. For years he sold spices, and teas, and coffee, going about the country with horse and wagon. Later he sold books, American Encyclopedia, and served as local preacher. Irish he was, with the Irish wit, he never was worsted in jolly talk with catholics.

He lived to see his immediate family unite with Protestant Churches. Had I been P.E., I would have urged his admission into Ministry of the M.E. Church. The strange is now to come. There were 5 children, the oldest by some accident, was prevented from schooling. The 4 others he succeeded in giving a College Education. His wife more or less invalid.

It is to me one of the amazing things, that that poor man was able to accomplish the miracle of educating his children.

His oldest son. I met in Phi Psi hall, Meadville and learned he was Superintendent of some Ohio Insurance Company.

And yet we say the day of miracles is past.

Mrs NEWKIRK found thro my wife our Wedding Anniversary We were invited to a M. NEWKIRKS

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Pleasantville

a mile out of town to take dinner. As we were riding out I said, Why this is our wedding day. Turkey dinner, June 29. We had a feast of good things and were enjoying a the afternoon when JUDGE CONNELYs son came posting along in hot haste riding, and said there was a couple in the Parsonage waiting to be married. Go, I must and so I said to my wife, You had better stay as they were making preparations for supper, no if you go, I will. MR NEWKIRK doesn't seem to be in much of a hurry, but at last we were off for the Parsonage. Sure enough there was a couple standing on the porch, she veiled.

I hurried up the walk, beg pardon for detaining you, opened the door saying "come in", when I was greeted with shouts and roars of laughter. House was full. I have surprised many times, but that was the competest i ever had. Usually some one gives you a hint.

The amount left me, I cannot recall, but some one, I believe one of the BARROWS Pres,s gave me a stove pipe hat. What under the sun shall I do with that hat. Never wore such a thing in my life.

After a time one Sunday evening the Elder was to preach, I put on that hat, marched into the church, hiding the hat as well as I could, was the last one out when I wore it home. That was my first and last experience.

When I moved away, I gave it to the man who moved my goods.

Here I met my double. ROBT ARMOR. I never saw the resemblence, but others did, and it gave us rare sport. One time I took my departure for Conference. Soon after leaving REV REESE, retired minister slipped into a store when MR. BANKS had charge, and said "You told me Stubbs had gone to Conference" Yes, I did. "Well he hasn't gone he's standing on the corner over there" Banks looked out and smiled, "That's not Stubbs, that's Mr. Armor".

While in Parker I had some funny experience. Down at the landing I stepped into a doorway

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Pleasantville

Another time winter I had gone over the river to the depot expecting someone. I stood by the stove warming my hands. The door opened, a young man stepped up, Hello Bob, Pretty well, I thank you. He look amazed. Excuse me I tho't it was Mr. Armor. I know all his family, his brothers, and not one looks as much like him as you do.

Repeatedly that mistake was made. I use to jokingly say to Rob't, Don't you give me away. What has become of him, I know not.

There is Pleasantville my second boy was born, FREDERICK WM STUBBS. What shall we name him. WILLIAM NEWKIRK was dear to us, so we said Wm. It was just the time when FREDERICK PRUSSIA was in the eyes of the world, so I said Frederick William and it was settled.

During my second year I permitted a woman to lecture in the church. MRS CHASE. She was a lady of abilities and would have given honor to any pulpit. Never heard of her since. She lectured 2 nights. I do not recall her subject. It made quite, quite a sensation. For a woman to occupy a pulpit was questioned in those days.

My own people made no comments, in fact were pleased. The Presbyterians shook their heads. Mrs. Connely's sisters were present and she was not sure it was just the thing.

Foolishly I allowed the criticism to influence me, and coming to Conference I decided to move. Conference in Meadville BISHOP SIMPSON presiding, RICHARD GAGGIN was there from Erie. I said yes. Bishop sent me to Simpson, Erie.

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Simpson, Erie

1871 - 1873

Simpson Erie recieved its name from the great Bishop. Perhaps no Bishop has ever achieved such a nation wide fame. His name was given to the church by RICHARD GAGGIN who for many years was the most conspicuous figure in its history.

It had a gradual growth thro many years. The membership tho not large was a Unit and well disciplined. The Sabboth school was one of the best in the city of Erie. Harmony was in all her borders.

It was under the skillful management of JAS M. BRAY that the present noble structure was built.

It was under J. BELL NEFF that the church burst into its modern greatness. It's strength blossomed into fragrance and beauty.

It was my privilege and may say my hardship that I followed such a Captain as AMOS N CRAFT.

So far as I know we did not fall below his management in the economy, and spiritual unfolding the life of the Church.

Our morning congregations were most excelent, the evenings, discouraging. It remained so thro many years. Safe to say, that continued till J Bell Neff changed the order of things.

Among the membership were many choice spirits too numerous to mention all. MR. SHENK in those days was humble builder and lived in one of the humblest houses. But sterling qualities, real abilities lifted him year by year till he and his sons became among the most prominent architects and builders in the state. He spent his last days in a beautiful mansion on the corner opposite the church.

Richard Graggin knew more public men, more national charectors, more United States history than any man I ever knew.

Finest judge of lituature I ever found. I would rather have him select a library than

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Simpson, Erie

any man of my knowledge. For many years custom house officer. He was lead in a torsion spring business which proved his financial ruin.

He went west and was surveyor for a few years, then returned to Erie and engaged in life insurance. He was able to send 3 boys and 2 girls to Syracuse University. These all have turned out to the praise of their parents and an honor to the human race.

HENRY SIMMS entered the Ministry, but for some reason gave it up and settled in Erie, and for many years has been one of the most active members of Simpson church.With his family he has been among the conspicious charectors of Eris.

No lives were more beautiful and chashe than FLETCHER McDOWELL and wife. In R. Road employ for many, many years. One of the ablest Bible teachers. Both have passed to the Celestial City.

Father AMES and wife, dear souls, how I loved them. They had been choice friends of my father. Always at church, ever doing their part.

CAL SWEENY, lovely personage and one of our best teachers. I had the pleasure of recieving her into membership. Not long after she moved, settled in Gerard and became a member of the Presbyterian church.

The LEWISES, the BELLS, the ELLIOTTS, the FEDMANS, the THURBERS, the FALKNERS, the WILKINS and oh such a host of the finest people one could wish to meet, with whom to labor.

Dr W.W. WYTHE was part of 7th St my first year and DR. ALFRED WHEEL the second year.

In many respects Dr. Wythe was the most remarkable charecter I ever met. He was really a genius. He was a physician and served in the Civil war. He was an inventor and at one time had amassed quite a fortune. However he was no genius in money matters.

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Simpson, Erie

1871 - 1873

He built the Palestine at Chautauqua, a facsmile of the land of Palestine. ??? was a machanic that would have been worth thousands to any Rail Road, but he preformed at the humblest place as a Methodist Minister.

Dr WHEELER was one of the ablest of our preachers. In style rather dry. But on the Conference floor he was eloquent. He was the first one who recognized the importance of a Univesity at Washington D C. It is now growing to be a great institution.

RUSSELL KEELER was pastor at 10th St. while I was at Simpson. Made his mark. Great debater on Baptism and wrote a book on the Conference. Strange isn't how the question is thrown into the discard. Questions drop out, we know not why. Once in awhile they bob up and again drop out of sight, never again to appear.

There lived with us for a time, MARION BAIN. A young man by the name Acheson fell in love with her and I married them in the church. They were kindly remembered, and we gave them a reception in the Parsonage.

I note here, One Sunday ARTHER BANKS STUBBS was born. DR. FAULKNER was the Physician. Several of his family were among our best friends.

There was a Canadian family I hunted up. In after years the young people became conspicious in church life. The young man is one of the most prominent men in business circles in the city.

At the end of the second year Parker sent in a request for me. I think GEO SQUIR instigated the move. So down the river we went to Parker City.

Page 59

Parker City

1873 - 1876

Parker City is on the magnificent stream, River Alleghany. It takes it's name from the Parkers of whom there were peveral families.

It became an oil center, but was gradually moving to the Front, miles away

Oil however is produced in that section to this day.

I became pastor in 1873.

The Parsonage was not finished, so we were at the hotel for 3 or 4 weeks. Chase was on crytches, Fred was a lively red haired boy, about 4, and Art a few months old.

The Parsonage was immediately back of the church, giving quite a downyard.

The church was not conspicuous for beauty.

In the first initial meeting, I inquired, How much is your debt? Oh, about $400.00. Don't you know? They reckoned up and found it $1200.00. They were surprised and disgusted. One man, a lumberman, said "I have been paying on old debts until I am tired,I won't pay anymore".

Brethen I said, Elect some man who can keep books. Let him make a statement to the people. The amount of our debts, then every six weeks report to the church. All our reciepts and expendatures, no secrets.

They elected O.P. SWISHER who proved to be the great bookkeeper for the standard. Oh he said, "I'm the busiest man in town. I can't do that". That's the man I want and I know it will be done.

In due time we came to the question of altering our seats. They were the most back breakers I ever found in my travels.

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Parker City

It was a small undertaking, but it seemed big to them. It was opposed by two men who were at the head of the church or tho't they were.

Finally I said to some of the young men. It's simply a question, whether the young men have courage to go forward, or whether these 2 men were to rule.

They rose to the occasion. They made the improvments and paid for them without asking a cent from the opposition.

The first year a Revival broke out. I cannot say it was due to me. The spirit of the Lord was working remarkably thro the land.

The work continued 11 weeks. I preached every night, with 3 exeptions.

How I managed to be ready every time with a messege for the hour, is even now a surprise to me. I lost some flesh, but was in good spirits and clear in mind.

There were nothing but benches about which we gathered. There were some of the most beautiful sights I ever witnessed about those benches. One night a young married woman rose and for a few minutes moved about as gracefully as I ever have seen in mortal. Never a word. By her side knelt a young woman. When she was converted she remained on her knees, her elbows resting on the bench, her face uplifted and a countenance beaming with delight and her hands moving gracefully to the emotions of her soul.

One night my friend, CHAPIN was at the alter. He had been a study. Night after night he came. Then he stopped. I fear I have lost him. In a few night he appeared , I said nothing to him. I tho't it best to let him fight it out for himself. That scene I'll never forget. He stood at the end of the seat, his hands clenched to the seat in front, he took a step into the aisle, then withdrew. His face was pale. A tremendous battle was being fought. The victory came and he marched to the alter. Prayer and singing were spirits impelled while my eyes were.

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Parker City

1873 - 1876

While my eyes were closed, someone seized my hand. There was Chapin, face illuminous. After Stroup is thro praying, I want Swisher and you to pray. We did. Chapin was the quietest man in converse. Made no change in this respect, but he became one of the most active workers and lived many years in the full enjoyment and activity of Christian life.

Another case, A young lady of fine appearance and good intelligence, a dress maker, came forward several nights, then she failed. I sought her at her home and inquired the difficulty. "I'm ashamed to kneel at those benches". Well you don't have to, you can find Christ here at your home. The benches don't save anyone. No I can't, my pride is in the way and I must go to the Alter. She never came. Her further history I never knew.

After a few weeks I noticed a new presence inside the Alter. He was a lusty singer and he was a great help.

He was converted in meetings held at the front. His home was nearby. His wife was a Presbyterian. As the meetings drew in a close the Pastor got after him and finally persuaded him to unite with the P's.

But I want Stubbs. Well you can go and hear him as often as you wish. He toppled to his fall. He had been a drinking man.

The Atmosphere of the other church seems cold. He soon lost interest and was back in the world again. What became of him, I never knew.

There were over 100 came into full membership.

There were several children and young people.

There was a lad about 12 or 14 who became, in after years, one of the most active men in the Methodism Ministry. He was a burning and shinning light. He worked himself a nervous

Page 62

Parker City

1873 - 1876

wreck and now for several years has been living on a farm near Union City. SAMMY LONG, he attempted to carry Duluth on his shoulders and it was too much.

Elisha Robinson and my son Chase were converted at that meeting.

The glory of Revival will never pass away.

Just at it's close a telegram came from HART AYERS, Clymer, to come and attend his wifes funeral. I went.

It was in Parker I began to take a very possitive stand on the Temperance question.

How we are tested. I was called to officiate at the wedding of one of my families. All passed off quietly. There we were, seated in a circle round the room chatting.

Suddenly folding doors opened just opposite to where I was sitting. A fine young lady bearing a server covered with twine glasses came to me. No thank you, I never touch it. She passed to the others. Most if not all drank.

Supposing I had drank, all those people knew my bold position in the Temperance question.

I would have lost their respect and confidence. Ah ha, would have been sounded thro the place and I denounced a coward.

Thro the oil towns were scourges of scarlet fever, diptheria and typhoid. I spent weeks in visiting house to house and serving and comfoting people.

I had here a strange case tho not from any of the mentioned causes.

There came a family by the name of MILLER, and opened a grocery just at the bridge crossing.

After a time his wife was laid up with cancer. Her bro-in-law who lived a few doors away offered to provide a nurse. She refused. I am a member of the Methodist church and I expect them.

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Parker City

1873 - 1876

to take care of me. When I heard it I said, I'll see to it. For 6 or 7 weeks I provided two watchers every night. When I failed, I sat up myself 6 or 7 times and was with her when she passed to the better world.

Now I can appreciate the feeling of that good woman. Let those who know and love me lead me to the crossing. But times are changed and nurses take the place of loving friends. It must needs be.

There are so many dear friends I'd like to mention but whom shall I omit.

One Elisha Robinson came to be a life long friend. His home was my home. Just as we were leave Petrolia, Chase came down with typhoid. He was in Mr. Robinsons home. I went to Conference in Titusville. There was excused. How we managed to pack our goods and yet take care of Chase, I know not. Wife and I had two large rooms upstairs. Day and night we cared for him. One day Mr. R came up and said I wish you would come and see Ernests throat. I went down, examined the child and said get the Dr, he has diptheria. He lived.

Just below a few rods lived a tenant. There was a little child came down with diptheria. One morning someone came and said they couldn't do anything with the child.

In those days they always swabed the throat. Down I went. The little child opened his mouth and I cleaned out his throaty.

Maybe 2 stones throw lived a bro of Mr R. SAM. He had a girl say 12 to 14 with croup. I used to visit there only to see the beautiful girl slipping away.

I attended her funeral, painful experience.

Dr. Hall who now lives in Portland, Oregon was our physician. After I had come to Petrolia, he called

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Parker City

1873 - 1876

me back as his wife was dying. What a rare woman she was. Of rare talents, accomplished musician, more resplendent a gift than pearls or diamonds, and rubbies. When sitting by her side she was rational to say, sing, but none of those trashy pieces. I sang Nearer my Godness, and prayed as best I could.

I tell you he ever shines with the gems of Earth.

While at Cattarangus my friend of noblest, manly qualities, Elisha Robingson passed away.

Dr Foster, Cearing Peters, John Lusher and I were speakers. Sevices were out in the door yard.

Judge [left blank], from Pittsburg, his lawyer spoke in most commendatory terms of my remarks.

When at Cattarangus, John Lusher invited me to come and lay the foundation of the New Church.

The services were held in the U.P. Church close by. The house was packed many, many new faces since I had been pastor. How I did enjoy that scene.

Then we went to the stone laying. It was gratification to think there were so many old friends who desired me to lay the foundation for a new home.

Coming to leave Parker, Charles Archibold raised money enough to buy a Tiffany Swiss Watch ($225.00) There were 2 dollars in that watch note.

Charles went to a saloon man and told his errand, not a cent, not a cent. How he came to go to such a place, I can't imagine. Abashed he turned towards the door. Hold on, hold on. Here are 2 dollars. He's the biggest kicker of all, but I believe he's honest. And now the watch is ticking in Robins pocket.

Page 65

Petrolia

1876 - 1878

Our last Sunday in Parker was doubly sad. We were partialy packed. Wife was preparing the Sacrement. After 3 years to partake of the sacrement was full of sacred memories, as well as the remembrence of the suffering Christ.

While sitting Discipline in my hand, my wife slipped across the floor and placed the tankard on the table and rested. I sprang to her side and helped her to the bed. She had a stroke of Amnesia. She rallied so that I was able to hold the Sacrament.

Twas a struggling blow. Uncertainty hung over us, but thanks to God she rallied. And while the effort lingered long. Yet, she lived 15 years. How happy we were able to move with care into our new home.

Petrolia was emphatically an oil town. It was hustle, hustle, busy, busy oil and merchandising and life in a thousand ways marked the place.

Our church was always full, but there was so much going and coming that the results of hard labor were not so apparent.

However, the seed scattered may have been carried as on wings and in after years bore fruit into life eternal.

Good Sunday school, good singing, good prayer meetings.

A certain man had the primary dept. It was well managed and what would be called success, There was one thing he never could do, give account of the money the little folks brought into the treasury.

He bought his own supplies and paid his own bills and nobody knew the depth of his pocket. Later in my Ministry I would not have countenanced the method.

For the sake of Peace we submit to questionable things. In State what crookedness is enacted, and the people submit till some horror is enacted and we begin investigating. To late, often the rascals go unpunished.

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Petrolia

Shortly after moving Chase came down with Typhoid fever. I slept by his side every night, and ministered to his wants. By day I looked after church matters. Not a soul ever came to the house to inquire after the sick boy. God spared him to our comfort.

Shortly after his recovery, Robin was born. We named him after Elisha Robinson.

Perhaps 3 or 4 weeks after his birth he broke out with measles. What a puzzle. Where did he get the disease? After while it came to me. I was called to see a boy 8 or 9 who had croup and measles. Never will I forget that child, strong, promise of years. Yet, I knew with the little knowledge in the medical fraternity, the boy was doomed. I baptized and in due time, laid the little fellow to rest.

Scourges of Diptheria, Typhoid, Scarlet fever visited all oil towns. There was nothing sanitary, and the wonder is that any one escaped.

I averaged a funeral every week in the year.

Above the street where we lived was a paraller street, with houses on one side overlooking us and the valley in which the town was built. This was aristocratic row. They were oil men and piple line men. They paid no respect to the Sabbath or Church or Minister. One young man was a Christian till he went to Comele College when he abandoned his Christ. He called on me to bury a prominent man, wealthy, and sent me with remains to Miles Grove.

Some years later I followed him to his cemetery home. The history of the others on that street is to me unknown.

A few houses below us lived DAN SMITH in charge of all the glycerine that was used in that country. Dan and his wife were always in church Sunday night. He was in the back seat and stood head and shoulders above all there.

Page 67

Petrolia

About 2 weeks before some on said to Dan, "Where are you going to spend xmas"? Oh, I don't know, maybe down in Hell.

On the Sabbath preceding about 4 in the afternoon, I went with Arthur to the kitchen to get a drink of water. As we stepped into that room there was a crash and I tho't the chimney was coming down on our heads.

As the house was allright, I hastened to the front door, and I saw the inmates from all the houses were doing likewise.

Soon I saw a line of men moving across the fields to a piece of woods, where was an old abandoned coal bank. There was the depository for all the glycerine.

Now just before the explosion that had caused all the excitment. Dan had been notified of the arrival of a load of the dead explosives. He said to his wife. I have a good mind not to go. It seems as if they chose Sundays for the business, but if I don't go they will find some one who will.

Next day I went over. I found that explosion had blasted the shalerock to the depth of 3 ft in the center and shelving to the edge. Making a diameter of 15 to 20 ft.

There was no fragment of the wagon, the horses were blown to atoms. The head of one was lodged in a tree, both men were blown into vapor. Enough flesh was gathered to fill a cigar box and called "Dan".

Where did Dan spend his Sabbath?

One day a rap at the door. I opened the door reached, out my hand and said come in brother. He asked if I would come down to the Brawley school and start a Sabbath. I did and formed the school & met the Brawley men who were noble men.

How long the school was kept up, I never knew.

But that hand shake, I heard from when I was living in Cambridge Springs.

I had a call over the phone. A woman who said she knew me desired to see me.

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Petrolia

1876 - 1878

I went to the hospital. There I found a woman in an attach of heart difficulty. Depressed, nervous and sure she was going to die. I cheered her up, sang and prayed and assured her she was going to get well.

One Sunday I was shaking hands with the people leaving church. I noticed a man lingering as if he desired to speak to me. We shook hands. You don't remember me? NO, I said. Do you recall a man calling at the Parsonage in Petrolia and you opened the door and said come in bro. Yes, I do. Well, I'm that man. All of 25 years had passed. That handshake, those words made their impression. I had never been called bro. It lead to my conversion. I am the husband of that woman in the hospital.

Afterwards, I dined with them in Warren. And both are now living.

Little do we know what things are giving, to make the saving impression.

GEO SQUIER and his brother did a thriving shoe business in Petrolia, and shortly after Geo entered the Ministry.

The MAPES brothers had a very prosperous store, and were the foremost members in the church.

Just below us was a great booze house and house of shame. It was kept by the notorious BEN HOGAN who afterwards was converted, and became an Evangelist. Thro that place and in all the oil country, womans name was shame.

Calling on one of my families, I found the father, mother and daughter. The daughter was of striking beauty, but dresses and jewelry were her passion and she sold her soul to gratify her passion. Her fate is hidden from me.

I was called to bury a man some 4 miles away. - TB - There were 3 or 4 girls, oldest about 6. Finer looking children I never saw.

A few weeks after the funeral, I met the mother in a store. She informed me she had given her children away. What a monster she seemed to me.

Mothers due for their offspring, but not many give them away.

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Petrolia

1876 - 1878

A few doors away lived a widow with 3 or 4 girls, the oldest about 15. Her husband had been accidentally killed working about an oil well.

The day before the accident he had given up a $5000.00 Insurance policy. She was left penniless and was trying to make a living in a little grocery. I guess I added to her poverty. She came to prayer meeting and church, but was bitter as gall and cynical beyond desciption.

Back of her house was a kind of picnic grove. One time the odd fellow had a big day. They gathered up a basket of remains and carried to her door. She resented, I do not thank you for your gift. She was proud and I somehow gloried in her spunk. Poor people do not wish to be published as objects of charity.

I said to the one who told me the story, Let me try. I was there taking the N.Y. Tribune. I said to the mother, how would you like to read my copy? Yes. So one day I took the paper having placed a bill between it leaves. Not a word was ever said. I found a way to help.

A few years after I rec'd a letter from her asking for a town in N.Y. where she could have a chance to send her children to school. I sent her to Randolph. Notifying MRS.VANRENSELLAIR of her coming asking her to try and find work for her. How long she remained, I never knew.

I took an active part with the Masons. One time making an outdoor address. They did not forget my labors. They presented me with a vellum apron $25.00, which I preserve to this day.

At the end of 2 years, I was ready to move. I have previously told how I came back from Conference to nurse Chase, who was down with his second abash of Typhoid.

Page 70

Dunkirk

1878 - 1881

I arrived at Dunkirk after 2 weeks delay. GIALEY, MOORE & PERKINS met me and showed me about town and wound up visiting the Church. Which under REV'D KUMMER had been newly decorated and "best of all" not a cent of debt. For 3 years I had that 3000 debt on my bread and butter.

After the Brethen had shown me the branties of the church, I was standing in the Pulpit. There in then church they said, you see there is only one chair in the Pulpit, Yes, I replied. Thats enough for me, but we don't want anymore. Well, I can't use 2 if I had them. Then they told me there was a local preacher who expected to go into the pulpit every Sunday and make a prayer or pronounce the Benediction. Often he would go in with big rubber boots as if coming from the barn yard. They wanted it stopped. That settled it. Why didn't they go to him and tell him. No, no they let me bear that lead for 3 years.

It's easier to put the load on the other fellow.

The church had been paying an extravagent salary for some years and are retrenching on me.

My salary was fixed at a thousand dollars and pay my own house rent.

It was a good house and the rent was $12.00 a month. Under all the circumstances it was financially the hardest experience in the Ministry.

Now that I have mentioned the dark features, I turn to give the bright side.

No braver, truer, more loyal, loving people need one wish to serve. Especially among the woman, the heroines were many.

Sacrifices for the church was the re???. How they did work. That $3000.00 on paper stared them in the face. It's queer how paper seems to blow away. But in my 3 years we were able to reduce the obligation to 6 or 7 hundred dollars, Which I left as legacy to my successions.

Page 71

Dunkirk

1878 - 1881

At that time the Presbyterians were much the stronger denomination. Their pastor was one Adams. A very warm friend and one of the noblest of men. His views became so contrary to many of the fundamentals of that church that it ended in his leaving. It was unfortunate for the church, and it has never risen to its former greatness. Enough left to form a Unitarian Society.

We pledged along, not only holding our own, but growing stronger, and Laying the foundation for one of the finest churches in the Erie Conference, both in membership and in the ?????.

Our Sunday School was one of the best organized and most prosperous in the city.

In our 3rd year Gertrude was born. Then we numbered seven , royal number and we still are seven, 4 boys and one girl. And I can say as my father did when I visited him the last time. How good my boys have been, so I can say how loyal my 5 have been and I must add how noble my step daughter, Blossom, has been.

At the end of my second year, MRS. F BENSON came in and said you must come back next year. Why, what's the matter? The Catholics are praying for you. Good, but I don't understand. Well, since you came there is no more swearing on the streets.

One Sunday, just enough snow on the ground, a film. I heard some boys in the yard, mine among them. Some of them were swearing lustly. I stepped to the door and said, Boys I am glad to have you come and play with my boys, but my boys do not swear and I wish you wouldn't. That's all I ever said. Happily the swearing ceased.

Across the road lived a Catholic family. They had lost a son, killed on the RailRoad. She was inconsolable. How I happen to call, I know not. But as her Priest never called.

I was thankful I could speak words of comfort. Afterwards I called on her as in all my people.

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Dunkirk

1878 - 1881

Next door to me in a very humble dwelling, lived an old couple, Catholics. One day coming home about 5:00, I saw a crowd standing about the door and on the walk. As I drew nearer I asked, What's the matter? The grandson about 4 years old had been run over and his leg broken.

I stepped inside and said Dr, can I be of any help? I think so, I took the little fellows leg and held it while he set it and bound on the splints. I won the everlasting gratitude of that old couple. Whenever I met him on the street, off came his hat.

While I believe the Pope is trying to run our schools and over throw our Democracy. None the less, I have found some good friends among their people.

My vacation. There was one A. HOMAN who lost a little babe. I was with them in their grief stricken home and they never forgot it.

A. Homan was Engineer on a frieght boat, running to Marquette on lake Superior. He invited me to take a trip as his guest. I was only too glad to accept. In a few days the Captain, MR.LOWE, struck up an aquaintanceship.

Judge my surprise when I found we both attended Rockwell St school at the same time.

We were 4 days at Marquette and I busied myself scouring the country. One day I took a long tramp and got lost in the wilderness of bushes taller than my head. I found a creek. This goes to the lake, so I followed the leader some distance. Then struck thro the woods that had been lumbered, so trees were so altered.

After while I observed a tree that some 20ft from the ground was pitted by a plank some 2 inches thick. A piece of that plank projected some 15 inches beyond the tree.

While I was thinking of the strangness of that plank getting thro the tree, I stumbled onto a powder mill. That's it. Explosion sent that plank and its swiftness penetrated the tree.

A little way farther I found a nitro glyceine factory. I looked thro it a few minutes. I suppose I thot if those men were safe it would be no risk on my part. Foolish.

Page 73

Dunkirk

1878 - 1881

In a few minutes I was in huckleberry bushes, blue and black. How I did feast till I thot I had had enough for the season. But next day I was ready for another feast.

The return journey was without incident till we struck boistrous Lake Erie.

The tempest was so violent that the Cap't anchored all night in the protection of Point au Pele.

Next morning it was rough and I stood on deck till grit could stand it no more, and I sought my berth and stayed till we entered Cleveland Harbor.

Glad enough when my feet touched Terra Firma, and I sped to the old folks at home.

Two other vacations I spent with the children and many other youngsters, boys and girls. We bo't a boat and aften hired another and every day, with provisions potatoes and corn, we rode around the cape Light House point. I usually took along newspapers for my diversion while the boys were having a jolly time boating with the surf.

A roaring fire helped the hilarity at noon time made coals for cooking our corn and potatoes. Never were any feasts superior to our Delmonics. Hunger is the best sauce. Never were better appetites and never jollier times. Never were 2 vacations more happily spent and I guess no better results ever followed. The boys will never forget those times. From many of those boys I have had letters and greeting in after years.

Children never forget those who have taken pains to give them a good time.

Once the lake became so fearfully rough, I rowed the boat round into the Harbor and picked up my crew 'nor lost a single man'.

My sister Jane came and spent 4 months with us. She came xmas eve.

Tish and I had fixed everything for the stocking and were just to put out the light when the door bell rang. 11:00, who in the world.

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Dunkirk

1878 - 1881

could be out such a night. One of the wildest and coldest I ever experienced. Snow was piled up high as the fences. No one could long face such a storm.

The bell rang, I opened the door and there stood my sister ready to drop. When she left Cleveland the sun was shining bright and continued till after leaving Erie. The storm rose with fury. She should have arrived at 8 and now it was eleven. She plodded her way with bundles and turning on our street she met the fury of the storm as never before. She screams at the top of her voice hoping to rouse some of the neighbors, but the howling of the storm swept her cry with the fury of the gale. She wanted to surprise the children by coming after they had gone to bed. It was a fearful surprise to us all.

How soon the joy of xmas blotted out the dire experience of the night before.

And Jane had the happiest experience of her life. She entered into the life of the people and they made her welcome.

I had some trying experiences with sick people, cases of diptheria, and typhoid.

One of my members had typhoid and I secured watchers for many nights. It was difficult to secure any for most people had a dread of the fever. When I failed, I supplied myself and was present when she died.

It was at this time that drastic laws were passed so that one could not go into quarentined houses without there remaining.

That settled the matter of watchers and my people no more expected me to care for their sick.

PETER MONELL was one of the finest spirits, and his family became much endeared to me. He went in company with one of our member who fleeced him out of everything. He delayed not his going, but left for Colorado and found an opening in Montrose.

His family was on short rations and her mother was long sick and gave me a platter

Page 75

Dunkirk

1878 - 1881

a ceramic, which has been greatly prized in the family.

Knowing a Rail Road man on the Erie. I wrote him the circumstances and asked him to make the most favorable rates for the family to go to the father as far as Chicago.

In after years I had letters from the boys who remembered me greatly and appreciating all I had done for the family.

My relations with my people were most happy. I know not how to select out a few names. There is one still living who has shown heroic qualities. MRS. CHAMPLAIN. She had one leg cut off to defeat J.B. With crutch she made her way to church. In a few years she had right arm removed for the same reason. Still she found her way to church by means of a wheeled chair. God was to her, all in all, and his house was like meeting him face to face.

For some time "Lord" MARTIN was identified with Dunkirk Church. He married one of our choicest girls. He managed to attend Allegheny College.

Not able to complete the course, he entered the ministry. It was while in the Ministry he concured the idea that made a revolution in heating cars. Taking steam from the engine. He could get no patent on taking steam, but did on the method of coupling. His success was great and the money rolled in on him. Alas, the good fortune was cut for someone made a far simpler coupling. and his fortune was gone.

So often some one sees the fault in the armor, and the man gives birth to the model is stranded. Another gathers the fruit.

I need not follow the subsequent life of Martin. Gone long since to the other world.

My presiding Elder was R.W. SCOTT and for some reason unbeknownst to me took a strong dislike to me. He tried to get REV. ?? BAKER who was our Pastor in Forestville.

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1878 - 1881

to bring charges against me. He refused. Stubbs is my friend, I know nothing against him. The Elder didn't have the courage to do the nasty deed. However, he could stab in other ways. It's an illustration of what has happened in all churches. Heresay hunting is unfortunate. Suppressing tho't is bad business.

One of Jesus noblest traits was to rouse his Disciples to think. Who am I? Thomas discovered after the Resurrection. None of the Disciples were clear till in the 40 days. At the end of 3 years I went to Forestville.

It seemed as if the Elder had it in for me, but it was a happy appointment and 3 years of earnest hard work awaited.

The good people not to be outdone gave me a good parsonage, and the equivalent of what I had in Dunkirk.

Forestville is one of the homiest churches in all my travels. It's people substantial, intellegent, literary and posted on all civic matters. The town is a gem among the trees.

There were men who stood for principles even tho it affected their business.

REV'D HERMAN SHEPARD I count as one of the great and good men I have known. he was trained for the Ministry, educated far above the average, but obliged to retire on acoount of poor health. He was capable of filling any Pulpit.

But no matter how poor he might think his pastor, there was never any belittling the messenger. No pastor, but had has hearty support. He kept a store, grocery. I think the capital was supplied by C.D. ANGELL. Not only was Mr. Sheppard a strong Prohibitionist, but he was anti tobacco.

This was well known. He refused to sell it to the loss of much customers.

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1881 - 1884

He was a great sufferer with asthma. I have been in the store when it seemed as if every breath would be his last. Someway he outgrew it and died of some other disease.

And I came back to attend his funeral. His family were jewels. His prominent and Temperance work. Julia, a mystic, a teacher now pensioned. Marguerite, a graduate os Syracuse, worker in ymca and school teacher. Stella a graduate of Syracuse married a teacher near N.Y.

The household was in the front seat always. Stella, a little tot 2 or 3 years old, for a long time would slip out of the pew and march up to the Pulpit, look in my face recieve my hand touch and quietly return.

Once I took her in my arms and seated her on the Bible while I made the opening prayer, then she returned to her family.

Thro all the changing years this family has remained my loyal friends.

REV'D S. L. MEAD was a member of the Forestville Church. He too entered the Ministry, but throat difficulty forced him to retire.

He had a farm 3 miles in the country. He made a great success as a farmer. He too was a strong Prohabitionist and as such was well known far and wide. A strange thing happened. Sometimes I tho't he attended more funerals than any minister. Tho they hated his policies, they recognized the man.

He too had a family that have become prominent in church and society and in farming and fruit growing.

DEAN WARNER and wife came into the church while I was there. Man of strong sense and solid Republican. He joined the celestials some years ago, while his wife, one of the rarest of women, is enjoying life 85 years young.

Many and many a ride wife and I have had after their pony, Nellie.

C.D. ANGELL was a noted charactor in that community. First a merchant, afterwards he

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1881 - 1884

engaged in oil, and was greatly successful.

Alas, as often happens, Fortunes wheel ran away and the last days of Mr. A were unfortunate. In after years I was called to lay him to rest.

DR. MEADERS family was among the substantial. The Dr went to the better world 2 or 3 years ago,

The HILLEBERTS were among the choice spirits. For years it was one of my refuges. The father and mother, at different times I followed to the beautiful cemetery where also rests the remains of Lizzie.

Virginia was one of the noblest spirits that ever shone out of a frail tabernacle. Well educated, a most successful teacher, She shouldered the burden of the farm and her two brothers. Sacrificed herself to give the boys a substantial start in life. John is in the old homestead and happily married.

The DIXIES and PIERCES and ELLISES were crown jewels.

I speak of my custom and this may cover the years.

Every winter I was in the habit of holding a series of meetings. The fruits were not great harvest, but substantial and largely young people. I did my own preaching. So many times the reactions from revivals have left the church weakened and the converts scattered.

One winter the Baptists employed an Evangelist. Our people joined in, and many united with each church.

There was a class of 30 came with us.The days of reception I passed to each one and asked, How do you wish to be Baptized?

There was a giant of a man, son of a Baptist Minister, who said sprinkling will do me. His son sat by his side, said immersion. It seemed almost laughable, but was so done. After the reception we went to a creek and immersed the son.

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Forestville

1881 - 1884

We had a good S.S. I had a class of boys some 8 or 10. They have had a strange history.

Chase became a physician. ELTON WARNER became one of the noted lawyers of Northern New York.

PERRY WARD was a natural Chesterfield. He was grace in all his movements and politness itself. His father was the Banker. Perry never lacked money. He lead a fast life. Married an estimable woman 100 miles from Chicago.

But his candle was soon snuffed out. The father shot himself and the bank was penniless.

There was a young man older than my class. Bright, gay full of fun, became a Lawyer in Dunkirk. Liquor mastered him and one morning he was found dead, having walked over an embankment and perished.

So, Forestville sent out some of the finest spirits, and some who bro't no honor to the town.

Up to this time Masons in their banquets were in the habit of serving beer and wine.

Our lodge prepared for a good time.

FRANK FARNHAM came to the house and asked if I would attend if beer and wine were served. I said no, sorry, but the custom was exceedingly unfortunate.

He went and explained my position to the lodge. Out of courtesy to me they dropped the beer and wine. There was a big banquet attended by many lodgers. Several if not all those lodgers forever dropped the degrading custom.

G.A.R. Some of the boys in blue desired to have a post, not knowing how to secure a charter. I undertook it for them. When that came they at once organized.

That I had obtained the charter was sufficient to request my joining. I refused. I am not worthy to be numbered with the men who gave years to the honor and glories of war.

Nothing would satisfy them so, I sent to Harrisburg and secured papers and

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Forestville

1881 - 1884

a charter member of Purice Post.

The first memorial day in which I participated was in Forestville. Night before wife qand I were over night at Rev. Meads.

How it did storm that night. In the morning there were six inches of snow. By noon not a vestige remained, and a little handful of people gathered at the cemetery and went thro voluntary services. But our hearts were in it. Great days they have had since, but none that expressed more patriotism than that first time.

Before leaving Forestville, I gathered the history of each member of the post in book form.

I imagine the post long since was abandoned. I wonder who has that history. Most of such scattered thro the east are given up. It looks as if beginning in the East, the posts have moved West till it is likely on the Pacific Coast. The G.A.R. will breath its last.

On leaving Forestville, the boys gave me a present of $30.00, which is ticking the time of day in the parlor.

My people gave me a surprise that came near surprising them.

They persuaded my wife and me to go calling 3 miles in the country taking DEAN WARNERS pony. We wound up with the WILSONS. What a happy call. We were not inclined to hurry, but the Wilsons had a call to town so, we departed. When we drove in front of the Parsonage it was illuminated upstaies and down. What's up? There at the glass door stood Shepard, Looked like my own father. What a jolly time we had.

Next day was our 20th Annivesary. We had some relatives from Wheeling W. Virginia. Seldom such days come. Some dishes still linger with us to mark the greatness of that day.

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That woman. One stormy night, how it stormed and raged, whirling the snow till the traveler would be confused. Such a night when people perish in the piercing blast.

It was between 10 ans 11 when Chase came in with 2 or 3 other boys. Coming from some party. He said, father a woman just went into the church shed, and she'll perish with the cold. Go bring her in and we'll make a bed here by the fire. They bro't her in. Her clothing was icy and snowy. We bro't some blankets and spread them in front of the stove. I asked her no questions. An outcast, homeless.

She was up in the morning, the first and before any one was downstairs she had departed.

No track, trace or rememberance. So we players on life stage play some trifling part and mysteriously disappear. A momentary wonder perhaps, and then forgotten as a dream dies at opening day.

Page 82

Corry

1884 - 1887

When my 3 years were up R.S. BORLAND Presiding Elder took me to Corry.

There were some unpleasant features. I followed J.G. TOWNSEND the idol of the spiritual universe portion of his larger Congregation. J.G.T was a flowery, very pleasing speaker and was ever sure of a good following. Had he not become infatuated with himself, he might have spent his life in the M E C, a successful minister. But he lacked the moral fiber. Naturally egotistic and flattered by his women followers. He made wreck of himself.

He had only been there one year. He told his people that he wanted to return while at the same time he was plotting for a higher call. Before leaving for Buffalo he told one of his lady friends, MRS. MURRAY, he was going to Delaware Ave. He was confident he could hold his church level and would then reach out and bring in the wealthy.

He failed in both. His plans were to go to N.Y. and capture that city. Then go to Chicago and take that as his trophy.

Delaware closed against him. He tried to dicker with Olean or Bradford. They were locked against him.

A MRS. KENT, who was in my congregation the first year I was in Corry, invited him to come to Jamestown and take the Old Methodist Church. That church was far to small, and his friends took him to the Opera.

That was overflowing. Mr. T was going to give the world a new Theology, then his sermons were published. That was his downfall.

A certain Presbyterian preacher in Buffalo punctured his balloon and his fall was hard on the earth.

When some of his friends prevailed on him to come and deliver a lecture, I set him up as the man. No asperation ever escaped my lips. But he didn't come. Then another time was set and he came to town. He engaged with some of his friends in playing croquet, but the next morning pleading indisposition he took his departure for Buffalo.

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Corry

1884 - 1887

While in Corry, HENRY W. BEECHER died.

A great demonstration was made in the public square on Sunday afternoon. There was a great crowd, I was the speaker, What I said for it was written, has passed from my mind.

H.W. Beecher was the greatest preacher of the age. Not forgetting, the distinguished, SPURGEON and P BROOKS.

He was a genious in creating tho'ts beautiful, amasing so. He was as great as the forests, the flowers, the seas, the mountains.

He did more than any man of the age to break down prejudice between Denominations.

He was only second to his sister, if second in arranging human thoughts against the horror and abomination of slavery.

By his matchless oratory he saved us from war with England.

He went to England at the request of Lincoln. He stood before audiences of 5000 hating America and turned their storms of praise.

No orator has ever surpassed his mastery over mob assemblies.

WENDELL PHILLIPS was a rival in this respect, but not his superior.

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One other incident and I heard the last of him. One Saturday evening he drove into town. I supposed next morning he would appear in church.

He drove his team to MR WALES who sounded his trumpet for him on all occasions. Allowed Mr Wales to care for his horses, these he betook himself to the Kents. The next morning he drove to Meadville. From that forward M T was no more mentioned in Corry.

My friend S. Mead said, Don't you worry. Be the pastor you were among us and you will win. My policy had been ever to know my people even to those who were not church members. How one comes to love his people. When you are at the fireside and know their wants and sorrows, you will come sooner or later to have a big place in their hearts. People like to know the man who ministers to them.

When I was closing my 50 years, I said to my people, I have had 2 ideals before me. 1st to be the best preacher I can, 2nd to be the best Pastor I can.

Corry originally was nicknamed City of Stumps. It is built at the crossing of the P E Erie Rail Roads. That crossing could just as well have been made at Columbus, 3 miles east.

Greed and selfishness sometimes cut their own throat. The poor little town tho't the time had come to reap a fortune. They wanted too much and the roads changed the crossing.

Columbus had remained a dying town ever since, and Corry has grown into a thriving town of over 7000. What it is today, I know not.

The Corry Church was a live church. Class meetings were well attended. Prayer meetings were always lively. P.E. Borland was often in attendance living a good stones throw away. Sunday School was the best in the city.

The Presbyterians were a strong people. Before I left the Pastor said Cards had eaten, but the vitality of his people. A certain clique would come to prayer meeting, and

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when the hour was up, if the Benediction was not pronounced, they took wings and found kindred spirits at cards and found no trouble in playing till midnight.

There may have been a few in our church that played, but it was not niticable.

It was in Corry I learned tithing. There were 2 young women and C. BAGLEY. One of the women with her needle supported her mother, and helped send bro to medical college and took one of the advocates. LIVINGSTON was her name. The other was a teacher in the public schools. Her mother lived with her. They had some means, but were dependent on the school. They took church papers. MEAD was her name, she tithed.

MR> BAGLEY is now living in LA in his own bungalow. He was long enough in the acme work to aquire a fortune. He sent his daughter to Allegheny College, then adopted a young lady and sent her thro college. Besides has $5000, the interest which goes for prizes. These 3 set me to tithing. I have followed it thru the years and giving ia a joy.

I married MR. BAGLEY to the daughter of a retired Judge. There were many guests and all crowding to be near the happy couple. In the midst of the ceremony the floor began to sink. The company sank back to the edge of the room and I went on with the ceremony.

This Mr. BAGLEY, his sister and her husband with about a dozen more left the Presbyterian church and united with us.

They were among our choicest members. It came about in this way. At some social the question was raised as to the 5 points of Calvinism, Damnation of infants. At once there was a division. They didn't believe others insisted it was the creed. Finally the book was brot and consternation seized the company and the split followed and we gained.

That is the only call I ever knew of so many

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leaving the Presbyterian church on account of Doctrine.

Another name I must mention, REV G. HUMASON. He lived in our neighborhood, wife and child. He was secretary of the Howard Tannery, and was admitted to our Conference and was serving Columbus and North Corry. He was succeeding finely. Often came to our prayer services. I recall the favorite song, "My Jesus I Love Thee".

He burst into prominence and had a remarkable career. I need not follow him in his Ministry. It was greatly successful while it lasted. But the burden became to heavy, and now for some years is spending his last days woth second wife in Moorsetown, New Jersy. We have been carrying on correspondence for some years.

Just ten years my junior.

There was a woman MRS. MURRAY, who lived a mile from the church on the Western Hill. Who one season supplied the pulpit with sweet peas. She and her husband were regular attendant, but no members.

What a pity that some of the choicest spirits can't be bro't into the church. When their hearts are religious and in sympathy with God and Christ and all divine things.

Another friend was DR. MACHRIO, who was a near neighbor in Clymer, and now was living in Corry. His life was a model in many, very many respects. Yet he was a materialist. It seems one time he exacted a promise that I would officiate at his funeral.

The call came when I was in Warren. Some 2 years after I spoke at her funeral.

I married the daughter, Mati, to WILL LEWIS.

That introduces a unique character, Pop Corn Lewis. Who was a noted Spiritulist. He began his career in Cleveland selling pop corn, there buying school lands. He prospered and at one time was wealthy, tho I think his wealth slipped thro his fingers.

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He always came to church and sat at my left. When anything pleased him he would snap his fingers and his eyes would sparkle.

In the church was a couple named WESTLY, among our best people. They were childless. Before my going to Corry some relative died leaving them a little boy, Willie and his sister Daisy, say 10 or 12 years of age. Children couldn't have been loved more.

In course of time both came down with diptheria and both died. Willie passed away first and was in another room. Daisy was apparently in a comatose condition. The Uncle and Aunt watching by her side. All at once she roused, sat up in bed and told a beautiful story of Heaven.

Then she began telling the people she saw and was calling their names. Some they knew were dead. Others they found afterwards had passed away. Then the Uncle and Aunt asked if such a person was there. The little one looked around, I don't see him. Oh yes, He's here.

At last she spoke up "Why, theres Willie and hes come for me". Uncle may'nt I go.

Poor Uncle, he brole down and burried his face in the bed clothing, crying like a baby. Uncle, maynt I go? Till he could refuse the pitiful plea no longer, Yes. Then she turned to the Aunt. Now the Aunt was one of those stern, not moved by ordinary pleas. Auntie "Maynt I go"? No response. Auntie Maynt I go? Marble could not resist such pleas. Yes, you may go. Instantly she fell back in the bed and was gone.

There is a sequel to this story. Time passed. I heard Mr. W in class frequently, childlike trust, tender hearted.

One summer day he arranged with a young man to go fishing. The day wore away

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and he did not return. Inquiry was made. The young man said he did not go with him. Search was made and upstairs in his Cooper Shop, he was found hanging. He could not live without Daisy.

Betaking myself to the house. I found Mrs W. in bed and MRS. CHIDISTER ministering to her. After a few minutes Mrs W asked me to pray. While praying I heard Mrs C fall from the lounge. She seemed to have fainted. I assisted her to the lounge when Mrs W said, don't be alarmed. I have seen her that way before. I heard her whispering, I will be good. I will be good. Then she spoke some beautiful sentences from Daisy. Then she changed to another person. Uttering some Heavenly things. Finally she reached out her hands and grasped mine and in a loud mans voice she said, Now Robert you see there is something in this. Going, home I jotted down as well as I could what had happened. But in time these were lost and I only rely on memory.

This gives me occasion to speak more fully of MRS CHIDISTER. She was a woman of fine qualities and possesses a rare gift. Spiritulists claimed her, but she refused to be identified with that call.

Once when I was calling, as we were conversing she said, There's a man here who says he knows you. He has a long beard and was instantly killed. Oh I know, thats Rev'd Eckles, yes. There's another man here who knows you. He's one armed, an old solier. Oh yes, that's Ludwick. Yes. Now she did not know either of the men.

Another time she discribed 3 sisters. The center one having a star on the brow. From the desciption, I know they were Lizzie, Sarah and Fannie Adrain. Fannie was one of the best known girls in Meadville in her day. A most lovely charecter. Then she said, I see an old man rising. In his hand he held a glass saying

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this made a gulf between them and me.

Now BOBBY ADRAIN was a great lover of BOBBY BURNS, and the Masons used to get him to recite and sing Bobby Burns. But I never knew him to drink to intoxication. None the less, Mrs C had pictured 4 people she never saw, nor even heard of them.

Mrs C raised a fine family then adopted a deaf and dumb girl. Raised her as her own, schooled and homed her till she finally married one of her own kind.

I had a class of the loveliest girls in all my experience. One little one, much younger than the others, would go nowhere else. She was bright and a treasure. We numbered 24. At first none of them ever had even the golden text. Now I said, next Sunday we will all have the golden text. Next Sunday not one had the text. Oh, I said, this will never do. Next Sunday we will all have the golden text. We did and never there after did we fail.

I wish I knew what has become of them all.

In my 3rd year we (our ch) had a singular experience. MR. BLISS was a cousin of the celebrated P.P. BLISS, the singer. He had a cousin WILSON a noted Revivalist.

About a week before xmas, Mr B notified me that his cousin would spend the Sunday with him. Extend a welcome and tell him the pulpit is open morning or evening, as he may elect. He came and chose the evening. It was snowing, but there was a good house. Before beginning I said, If you feel you have the audience with you. Give an invitation to come forward.

The sermon was good. The invitation was accepted and I think all of MR. BAGLEYS class of young girls, say from 16 to 20 bowed at the Alter.

A hurried conversation with the Brother kneeling, in the chanced resulted in

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Mr. Wilson staying with us nearly 3 weeks. Wife and daughter, they were choice singers and his sermons were fine, free from tirades and abuses. All that anyone could desire.

As people say it was a great Revival. Over 300 names were handed me, and a few were given to the Presbyterians and a few the Baptists.

Out of that number I think I rec'd into the church 60. 50 of those were from the S.S. and congregation. I searched that town and I couldn't find the people. What had become of them. I was noted for hunting up people, but in that case, I failed.

Mr. Wilson and family took out of town over $300, besides presents.

That's the only time in my ministry that I employed an Evangelist. Expecting in Cattarangus of which I will unite in due time.

I cetainly was disappointed in the results, and I feel glad that I was not racing after Evangelists.

While here, my sister Jane passed away. I went once to see her in Cleveland and again to attend her funeral. The husband was a miserable coot.

During my last summer, James and I took a Western trip. Father left me $400.00 and on the strength of that I set out to see somewhat of my own Country. We were gone 4 weeks. I had always longed to see the mountains. I feasted. The granduer and glory filled my soul. We went into Idaho to Beaver Canon. From there we staged into Yellow Stone Park.

By chance there was a party of six from St. Louis. An Englishman and wife touring the world and James and myself.

At noon we two lunched by ourselves. The Englisman and his wife by themselves and the Germans in their group.

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We were thro first and strolled where the Germans were. They offered us beer. We declined. The Englishman picked up his bottle and offered us some Black Bess. Again, we declined. They tho't us damned Prohibition Fanatics.

That night we stopped at a log hotel by the side of a stream.

On the table we had salmon, venison and mooose.

Next day, we came to a house 10 miles from any habitation. Never did I see a woman more pleased to see any one than she to welcome us to her habitation. No wonder, 10 miles to nearest neighbor. No wonder people grow crazy. Souls starve to death.

At night we lodged at the Fountain Inn. Lower Geyser Basin.

We visited the fountain and Paint Pots and dined in sight of old faithful.

Rightly named for every 55 to 60 minutes he sends his silver spray 150 feet in the air. Within stones throw are the Castle, The grand and giantess, which we did not see.

One day at dinner someone sounded the giant. That room was empty in a trice. It was a race for a mile. The English woman was there as soon as we and we were no mean walkers. The sight was most magnificent. Columns of scalding water, shooting in the air for an hour, 250 ft.

Not far away I saw the Splended. I tried to attrack the crowd, but they heard not. So I had the scene to myself.

From there we went to Yellowstone River. True falls, how beautiful. The lower one over 200 feet. The view from Inspiration 4 miles down is one of the grandest views I ever saw. Eagle nest of sticks, the little eaglets. The old bird gyrating, watching a chance to plunge into the river to catch a fish. The marvelous colors in the rocks never to be forgotten. Mammouth Hot Springs.

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Lovely colors. Jackasses and bats.

Returning we made for Salt Lake City. Spent a Sabboth there, attended worship in that great auditorium and heard the great organ. For year the greatest beyond the Father of Waters,

Back to Manitor Springs, up Pikes Peak and on to Denver.

We climbed the Peak horseback, my but I was sore. It was Aug 18. Lighting from the horse, my steps to the Good House were unsteady as a tipsy mans. But some women had to lie down and others drank coffee to brace them. James and I took nothing.

We ate our lunch on a great stone about 8ft by 4. A hollow like wash basin in the center.

Down away miles we saw a frieght train creepy along like a snail. Going down we were caught in a thunder storm, snow storm. Rainbow all for our benefit. The horses picked their way cautiously and we were glad when the storm passed.

We spent a day in Denver. James leaving me as he was in a hurry.

I stopped a night in Cheyenne with Fred and the DURRELLS.

It was a long journey and I never regretted the time and expense.

Here I may say Chase graduated from High School, and made his way to Chicago. There to attend Medical College. Making his home with James and J.B.

Fred grew tired of school and we were worried what to do. He began work for Guinon in Hardware Store.

One day I was down to Depot and there met Durrell who had charge of Union Shops in Cheyenne. I told him the situation and asked if he had a place in the shops.

Said he would see. That was July. Just before xmas I had a letter from him

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saying Sibleys and Miller had given him a Jersey cow and if Fred would bring it out, he had a place for him in the shops.

So, Fred left us and he's had a checkered career.

Marion and her children were with us for some months and her daughter a year.

Some of my brethen wanted me to take the Eldership. No, I said. I don't want it unless I could give my children better schools. I said give it to Bignell, that will save him, for he must leave Warren. It turned out that way.

My first experience with Christian Science was had in Corry. Two of my members were carried away with it, and left the church. They were among my best friends. However I lived to see them both abandon it and found a home in the Presbyterian church and were buried from that church.

A woman came and said she could cure one of my neighbors who had TB, She treated him till the $3.00 that he recieved weekly from his lodge was exhausted. Then she left saying she could cure him if she was sure of her pay. That's Christian with a vengence. The fact is the man was growing worse all the time, and shortly dies.

Page 94

Union City

1887 - 1888

From Corry, after 3 years we were sent to Union City.

Unfortunately the Parsonage was a miserable shack. How those good people could ever permit a minister to live in such discomfort, I cannot understand. My wife actually suffered with the cold and had to wear arctics during the cold winter.

The kitchen was a kind of lean to and had dropped so that one could look up and see the stars by night. At the end of the year, I told my Elder to move. J. M. BRAY was my successor. I told him not to go into that house and he notified the church that he would not occupy the parsonage.

That woke up the church and it was not great while before a new domicile was provided for the minister.

Now this aside, Union City was and is a choice place. It is now one of the strong charges in our Conference.

Asbury at that time was an out appointment, about 3 miles away.

My first Sunday after preaching I said, I'll be with you in 2 Sundays.

They looked surprised and frowned. Finally a brother spoke up and said, We are in the habit of having service every Sunday.

Oh, I said, I did not understand it so. Then they said if it should rain or the roads be muddy, we will not expect you.

No, I said. I don't do business that way. I will be here rain or shine, mud or no mud. I kept my word and they did not fail. Knowing I would be on hand in storm. They knew they could rely on the preacher. They were a choice people.

One time I said to them, when I first came, I tho't you were the homeliest people I ever saw. My such a scowl went over their faces. But now I said, your faces look like angels to me.

Page 95

Union City

1887 - 1888

Union City was a busy manufacturing town, mostly chairs. Thriving place it was. Presbyterians and Methodists were strong churches. JOHN CLARK was pastor in the Presbyterian church. Loveable man he was and we were warm friends. He was a strong Prohibitionist, and I became one. When I studied carefully how liquor was intrenched in all the cities of the land, Mayors, Alderman, Representatives, Senators, whiskey men. I said to my wife, and one of the noblest men in my church, I am done with the Republican party. Mostly ever since I have voted with that party.

John Clark said, our people are not with us now, but if we ministers are true they will be with us sometime. It was a long and painful way, but the day has dawned, and now we are battling to enforce Prohibition.

When Memorial Day came, I had the Post in our church. Then on Decoration day I went to Wattsburg, 10 miles, and spoke in the Opera House. What a crowd. I gave a discription of the Battle of Gettysburg.

The Union City Post was a good one and strong. Very largely made from the farms. The women, I think, kept the boys faithful for they had their meeting the same night in half of the Hall where the Post met.

My people were faithful and loyal to me and the church, and I certainly enjoyed the year. My wifes health began to fail and I notified the Elders. I would not go into that house another year.

Conference cast my lot with Silver Creek.

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Silver Creek

1888 - 1892

Arthur and I went in advance to get the house settled before the family came.

REV HERRON, my predicessor, had left and a boy and 3 young ladies were left behind. The result was Arthur and I had to pack their goods and helped to ship them to the Rail Road.

The consequence was that we were not more than half settled when wife and Robin and Gertrude came. We made the best of it. But how Mr. Herron could sneak away and leave the burden on our hands, I cannot quite understand.

My neighbor MR. HUNTLEY with whom I became intimately acquainted, took pains to inform me repeatedly that Mr Herron had borrowed $50. from him, but had never repaid it.

The Parsonage was a trifle better than the one in Union City.

Now I am happy to know there is a house of which any one may feel proud to occupy.

The church was just new, but the design was a great barn. Pulpit up high and the choir back of the pulpit. An annex in the rear served for a banquet hall and second story was the S.S. and Prayer room.

We had a good S.S. and divided honors with the Presbyterians.

The Pres Minister was an able man, and we were on the best of terms and held Temperance Campaign. The Speakers name is gone from me. I never have found, but one man who could hold an audience night after night, that was McDOWELL.

This man was with us some 2 weeks. How he did hurl his thunderbolts. Man would be mad enough to lynch him, but would be back the next night, and only to be lashed into again.

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Silver Creek

I was active in the Post. Gave the Memorial address once or twice. What smokers those boys were. When I went home not only my clothes, but my very skin was saturated with the smoke. Some of the work I did for the Post will appear in my Eldership.

Often I served as Chaplain in the lodge and when my great sorrow came the lady remembered me financially. A fine class of men composed the lodge, and it was a great pleasure to meet with them.

When our 25th Anniversary arrived the church celebrated it most splendedly.

We assembled in the church. Had some speaking. Some one presented us with $125.00. It was unexpected and all the more appreciated. My wife sat by my side within the Alter. I just recall this much. Turned to her and said now we will start for the 50th Anniversary. Twas not so to be, only 2 1/2 years of happy life was left for her.

It was in my 3rd year I founded the Shakespeare Club which is in existance to this very day, 1924, and every year I send my greeting, and exepting my severe illness. I have kept my reading of the immortal band. We had most delightful times meeting once a week from house to house. PROF PORTER was our first president, as I refused the honor. But the second year they insisted I take the position. Even after I had gone to Portlans & Brocton, I came down every week and presided. I seemed to become an authority in reading, and after many years they quoted me as authority.

This is the way Mr. Stubbs would read such a passage.

Some very choice spirits have entered its membership. None finer in that community, and they keep up the standard.

One year we took on Hanover center, 2 1/2 miles away. The Baptists had attempted to ???? a church in S.C. It struggled

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along for a few years, but I believe is not in existance at this time. A young man was the pastor. He also preached at H.C. In fact there were more Baptist than methodist.

We made as allience and held union meetings for 2 weeks. Agreeing never to try to persuade any converts to unity with our churches. Before we closed up, I found he had been visiting from house to house and trying to persuade the converts to unite with the Baptist Church.

Going home that night I gave him a pretty plain talking to.

When we came to the last night, I had him pass slips of paper among the converts requesting them to sign to which church the wished to unite. Then I had him gather the slips and publicly read the answers. Before he was thro his face grew pale. No one signed for his Church. How many came to us I do not know. His attempt was a failure, as it should be. I can think of no meaness worse than that of stealing sheep. Indeed in the ranches out west when they catch a man guilty of that crime, they shoot or hang him.

Hanover had some precious people. I recall once in preaching, I said if one of the great Churches Baptist, Presbyterians or Methodist would agree together to demand the suppression of the liquor traffic, it would be wiped out. Startled by the saying, some women said it couldn't be done.

Here I record the most bitter foes I found were in the church. Hurting the party was the cry. Yet I have lived to see the 18th Amendment adopted by great majorities than ever befell any amendment.

I had a strange experience. During my last summer my wife was in such poor health, I took her out riding several times. There were 3 or 4 horses in the church, but no one said come and take.

I'd go to MR. KNIGHT and say I'd like a carriage to give my wife a ride.

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Silver Creek

When in the evening Id say, how much? Nothing Elder, anytime come and get it. It was the same going to funerals. Nothing Elder.

Yet that man owned all the whiskey in S.C. When in Erie in the Eldership, I was called to Minister at his funeral.

I was called back in the case of one little man of heroic mold, MR. VROOMAN. When his Pastor asked him what he would do in the Temperance question, there is Mr. H, a Republican, there is Mr. L a democrat. Neither cares anything about Temperance and each gives 100.00. What would you do?

If I had any convictions I'd preach them. Evidently he never had, for his mouth never said Temperance.

Later I was called to bury Mr. HUNTLEY. The Sir Knights officiated. I endevored to show we must have more than forms and rituals. Our hearts must be right with God.

It was during our stay in S.C. we had our painful experience with Chase. He was just starting in business. Wife had gone to keep house for a time. Then I took vacation and went to Chicago. Four days after I arrived he said, father I must go to the hospital. I was startled. The old trouble had broke out. His horse, when he went into the state to feed, lifted his knee and struck him on the old spot and trouble began.

I saw the first operation. Two gashes and the bone was laid bare, but he had 2 more for the operation had failed to remove the dead bone. The last one was a success, but it left him hovering between life and death for weeks. I went up thinking his days were numbered. James said I'll never give him up, for hes my nephew.

But if it were anyone else i'd say he can't live. As I was about to go

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Silver Creek

home I met the surgeon and inquired about the boy. Oh, he's doing very well, but he'll not live. Comforting wasn't it?

In less than 4 months that surgeon was dead and my son lived, 1924.

James cared for him. The faithful nurse nursed him back to life and unnumbered prayers went up in his behalf.

As soon as he was able to move, he came home to Silver Creek and was with us till the following April when he returned to Chicago and once more opened his office.

Gradually my wifes health failed and it was apparent the crossing was not far away.

I still kept all my work. Coming home from afternoon calls it was joy to see her sitting in her chair, and as long as she could her hands were busy.

One time there was some garment that needed a few stitches. Shall I do it? I took the work out of her hands saying, No, someone else can do the mending. At this time I was doing all the cooking.

Art had long since gone from home, so that Robin and Gertrude were the only children at home. Marion came down from Erie and rendered invaluable service. The last week she could sit up till midnight and then I would take the morning watch.

Conversing with Marion she said I have no more fears of dying than going into the parlor. I am only going into another of Gods rooms.

I was greatly indebted to MRS FREEBURG who without solicitation on my part came and Ministered the last night.

About xmas time Art came home to her great joy. How she scrutinized his face. Afterwards she said to me, Arthur has not a bad face. What solicitude, what prayers for him. Now a manly man of whom looking down from Heaven, she may well be proud.

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Silver Creek

Fred also came in time to see his mother enter the joys of Heaven. While still conscious she said to me, Let no one touch my body, but you. Fred and I carried out her wish, and I prepared her for the casket.

Thus passed away one of the noblest, and truest, most devoted and loving wife, mother and friend that there lived. She once said to me as she was nearing home. I fairly worship the ground on which you tread. It was Dec 31, 1891 that saw her lovely mission accomplished.

Sat'y services, Jan'y 2, 1892, were held in M.E. Church. My friend Elisha Robinson came up from Parker and offered any assistance I might need.

Rev'd Luccock, afterwards Bishop, made a most beautiful address. The other Ministers who so kindly came, I do not now recall.

She was laid to rest in the beautiful cemetery where a head stone reared by the children marks the spot.

I may here express my views about cemeteries. They do not appeal to me. I do not bury my friends. They are not under the sod. Heaven is their home. They live. They are robed in Glory and live lives of intensily such as we can only faintly understand.

Searching among her effects, I found a letter, now among my papers, in which she spoke of 25 years of happiness she had lived in her earthly home.

Not far from time DR. WHEELER my P.E. passed away. He gave out that he desired me to be his successor on the Erie Dist. It was so understood among the Ministers. REV. SCOFIELD filled out the balance of the year.

When it came to the Cabinet

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Silver Creek

1888 - 1892

Instead of like a man explaining the situation, it was left as if I was seeking the position.

Put yourself down and never a word of explanation on the asking where would you like to go. I was stationed at Protland and Brockton.

Gertrude found a home in Dunkirk with Nellie Stubbs father and mother. I was to pay a nominal sum for her board.

Robin was for a time with the ROBERTS at Hanover center, their in town, living with Mrs. Roberts.

During that summer, I had a Miss Edwards from Perrysburg attending school. Was working for her board. Then I had taken a little red headed girl from Hanover. The mother had taken her family to hide from a drunken father, so I offered this child a home during the school year.

No one can imagine the burden on me. I prepared the meals, swept the house. The girls washed the dishes and made their own beds.

All the care of the Church, I faithfully served, prepared my sermons and it was sweet relief when the school closed.

Robin and Gertrude went to ROB and JENNIE ADRAINS and spent the summer, then were disposed as I have above written.

Rob [Adrain] passed away about 20 years ago and Jennie about a year ago, 1924. All of the Adrains are now on the Paradise side.

I o't to mention this summer. WILL and CHARLES ACHESON and Robin and I walked down from Buffalo to the falls. It was the time of their lives. We slept on the little Island near to Goat Island. Next day they were sight seeing and there was nothing they didn't see. Took cars for home, great time.

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Portland and Brockton

1892 - 1893

At the time I took charge, it was one of the finest charges in Conference.

On my leaving it was made into 2 charges.

The Parsonage was at Portland and it was a fine parsonage.

What goods I did give away, I moved to Portland. I fixed up a room for study and sleeping. Took my meals with ELISHA ARNOLD next door till MRS. LEWIS and her daughter moved into the Parsonage.

They had the rest for my board. I divided my time, 50-50, between the hot places boarding with 2 sisters in the old school house.

I use to speak of my Dominion as seven by nine miles. I know every member and others in that territory. My work was practically done in 10 months. In that time I walked 1500 miles and made 1100 calls.

What delightful people I served. They were intelligent and prosperous. Grapes had made them well to do and yet the pickers did not raise the moral tone of the people. There was more genuine piety at Portland. More of the Worldly at Brockton.

More charming people I never served. Three times I preached every Sunday. 2 times at Brockton half the year and 2 times at Portland the other half.

At Brockton lived CAP'T BUTLER in the finest house and eloquently furnished. They became my warm friends.

There lived there one HARRIS who, if my memory serves, established the Grape Belt.

In the Spring he began Temperance agilation. We united for us and went to several school houses and had some rousing meetings.

This not withstanding we had an immortal Winery at Brockton. It was owned by MR RYCKMAN whos wife was one of the most prominebt members of the church and he was one of the most regular in attendence.

The agitations naturally awakened

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Portland and Brockton

his wrath. One day I was coming down stairs from the Printing office. We met on the stair way. He was excited and gave me to know it was none of my business, that I did not belong there and would soon be gone elsewhere. I kept cool, but gave him to understand what affected humanity was my business.

A few nights after we had a Union Meeting in the Baptist Church and I was to Preach on Temperance.

In the midst of my sermon, calling no names, I mentioned the comversation.

I said, you may order me on, but as long as God gave me breath, I propose to stand by the countless thousands who have no one to plead their cause. I look into the empty glass and I see the mothers ragged with children half clad, deprived of school and hear the cry of the poor, whose poverty cried unto Heaven and against the Saloon and no voice to plead their cause.

There was no mistaking my position, and before the 18th Amendment the people began to see that grape wine war endangering the homes in the grape belt.

Our most prominent member was MR. PORTER at Brockton. He was killed in a Rail Road accident, and his loss is felt to this day.

Before the year was up Mr. Porter began coming to church.

One time while still at Silver Creek, I was over to Forestville at MRS HILLBERTS and there met MRS E. JOHNSON and her daughter Blossom.

I had prepared a memorial for REV'D E.A. JOHNSON and sent it to Lizzie, then in Cleveland. It opened correspondence and ended in our marriage.

At my boarding house in Brockton were 3 or 4 lively young men and we had our jests and jokes and friendly chats. We bantered each other over weddings and agreed which married first should recieve silver spoons

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Portland & Brockton from the others. Where I stepped off they forgot the spoons.

Two weeks before Conference I closed up my work, went to Cleveland and was married by Presbyterian Minister REV. HICKOK. Lizzie prepared a surprise, invited quite a company who suspected nothing. I was to be hidden away until just the time for the Ceremony. MR. HICKOK invited all into one room, and before the surprised group, we were married.

The next day we made for Chicago to visit James and J.B. and attend the Worlds Fair 1893.

Up to the time of marriage I had known Mrs Johnson about 12 years.

She was a woman of rare abilities and one of the most remarkable women in prayer I ever heard.

Before leaving Portland, I managed to secure for Mrs Lewis $1000 insurance money. I wrote the company in Columbus Pa, most of the officers I knew well and urged the payment to the worthy woman.

They responded and I guess it was the last money they ever paid, for the failure of the organization followed immediately.

When I rec'd my appointment to Eldership I returned to Portland and sold some chairs, a bureau and then sent the remnents to Cleveland.

Our Conference met at Dubois, BISHOP HURST presiding. He was a man of Parts and great learning, but not winning as a President. Instead of consulting his Cabinet he asked 2 men. G.H. HUMASON and W.O. GRAHAM, who would make a good Presiding Elder and both recommended me. I give them credit for my being in the Eldership.

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Presiding Elder

Bishop Hurst appointed me to the New Castle District following JOHN PEATE.

I followed his plan in laying out the work and continued it thro the year.

Lizzies home was East Cleveland, 2 miles beyond the Garfield Monument.

We attempted to find a suitable house in New Castle, but failed and so we lived in East Cleveland during the year.

I liked my District and loved the people and met only kindness from the Brethen.

A.J. MERCHANT was at Sharon, which was the only church that refused to pay it's assessment after helping make the appointments.

A.J.M. was a good Preacher and no complaint could be made against him on that score. But he wanted to run the whole business. Class prayer meeting, even to the repairing the organ. In his home he monopolized the conversation. I have been talking with his wife and when he entered the room he took the bits in his own hand and she never got in a word edgewise.

When we came to the 4th Quarter Congerence, the officials were like hornets and it was a long time before I could smooth things down.

I knew he would have to go at Conference.

E.P. EDMONDS was at New Castle. He too was a very good preacher, but he had the tobacco habit. At close of the year some of the elect ladies came with a complaint. He was damaging the young people by his habit. His room was thick with smoke. The poison saturated his clothing. I said, will you make this complaint in writing so I can back it up in the Cabinet. They were not willing. You see how my way is blocked. When the Bishop asks, why his removal. I have nothing to show. The result was that he was sent.

JOB STRALLON was an Epworth. His wife was the best S.S. superintendent on the District. At the 3rd Quarter Conference. Job in

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Presiding Elder

New Castle

conversation said he tho't he o't to move. No complaints have come to me, I said. Now say nothing about moving. If you are uneasy, your people will be.

When the 4th Quarter Conference came was all changed. That body asked to have another man. When I came to preach in the evening Job said he tho't the expression of the Board was not quite understood. So, I called for a meeting of the board after my sermon.

I stated the case and asked for an expression of their will. Change it must be.

When it came to Conference all that I could give him was Fredonia on my District. It was a good strong church with a lively country appointment. No, he did not want that.

He wanted to go to Brockwayville, a long move and a charge paying the same as Fredonia. He was uneasy, and I saw he did not trust me, So I sent him to the Bishop. Next Cabinet meeting the Bishop said, What about the Stratton case? I explained the whole thing, and then appealed to the other Elder. They stood by my action and Job had his desire, Brockwayville, 1 year.

At my 3rd Quarter meeting I was to preach at Epworth in the morning and Wampum at 2, and dedicate the Mahoning Church the evening. I said to the man who was to take me to Wampum. Don't get up a big dinner and make me late. But the good wife didn't propose that her P E should be put off with a crust. My what a dinner. Bless her good heart, but I was just one hour late at Wampum. The people had waited and waited, finally a local preacher who had come among them was holding forth. There was nothing for me to do, only make my explanation, and Minister the Sacrement.

One Sunday morning I was over in Ohio, not far from my birthplace in Poland. I did enjoy the

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New Castle District

1893 - 1894

services. The singing was fine. A woman sang Ashamed of Jesus. I remember it to this day.

At another time I was at Mt. Jackson in the afternoon. After service the pastor took me to my stopping place. While I was in the bedroom, washing, I heard a rap and the Minister went to the door. Is there a Mr. Stubbs here? Yes. I'd like to see him.

I met an elderly woman who said she had cared for an old couple who had now passed away. She had some little trifles, among them a picture of someone by the name Stubbs. She produced a locket, and there was my father.

How under the sun did it get there?

I put some things together and remembered, when we were in Ravenna a woman spent a few days at our house. Father said she was a "smart woman", wrote for magazines and papers, a rare thing in those days. He must have had that picture taken at that time.

Two hours after that I was at Mt Pleasant, 20 miles away. In the afternoon I saw a woman in the audieance that looked familiar. I never was here before. Where have I seen her? After service among others she came and spoke to me. I said, where have I seen you? Mt. Jackson.

Sunday evening I was at the same church. The house was crammed full, some setting right up against the Pulpit. A man, holding his boy. After I had talked, 10 minutes say, I drew my hand down the edge of the Bible and knocked over a glass of water. The man and boy jumped and the audience bellowed.

I stood big biting my lips. When I could compose myself, I remarked You can't call this a dry sermon, and went on with my discourse.

To speak of all the places and all the Ministers would be impossible.

I mention a young man, son of one of our ministers, He was home.

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New Castle District

1893 - 1894

He had been a drinker. He carried me from one point to another. On the way he freed himself on after manner (Hollister) Mr. Stubbs, I don't take any stock in church, or the Bible, or ministers, but my mother is a Christian and I believe in her. After the fathers death, they resided in Dunkirk, where I met them once or twice.

New Castle was and is a strong church. The city a great manufacturing place. Iron and tin I think, however in way of Benevolence it has not measured up to Warren, Pa, Franklin Pa, Greenville.

Sharon, at the time I was there was in great depression, business at stand still. Which may account for the pinching in church finances. But as years have skirted by, the church has made great progress and 1924 is erecting a very fine church.

J. Bill Neff, before his sudden homeward flight, had built up and greatly strengthened the station.

Mercer on the hill was a quaint town, conservative, strongly Presbyterian.

Our people were progressive, plucky and friendly and I ejoyed my visits in thrie midst.

Good Revivals privailed on various charges, but I was greatly surprised when the minutes were published, the membership on the district had not perceptibly increased. Maybe the emotional element may in part account for this.

I liked my work, the people and was growing in favor and was greatly surprised when at the end of the year, I was transfered to ther Erie District.

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Erie District

1894 - 1900

Our Conference met in Fredonia, N.Y. Bishop GOODSELL presiding.

At this Conference JOHN LUSHER took a transfer to Madison, Wis. I said to him, Don't go, you are making a mistake, but he was elated as the boy with the new boots. He went to his sorrow and was glad to come home again. As will be seen later.

The Cabinet work went along smoothly, and my part was all satisfactory.

Merchant asked me, Isn't SCOFIELD going out? I don't know, the Bishop has said nothing.

The last day the Bishop informed the Cabinet that Scofield must be removed. Would we retain him in the Cabinet? It would be satisfactory to him if we would. Bishop can we talk this over? I will give you half an hour.

Now was my time, and I could have paid him in his own coin, but I said no and was the first to say, let him stay. The others acquiesced.

When the Bishop returned we informed him our decision.

It will be necessary then for one of you to move. That, we had not considered.

PRATHER said, the District is too large for him to handle. HUMASON on the Jamestown District said, mine is still larger. BECK on the Olarion piped up, mine is the largest of all and I don't want to move. MEAD spoke up, I have moved 5 times this year and I don't want to move again.

It was up against me. Bishop, I accept the situation and will move. Your appointment is for six years.

Then I found myself practically at home, for I had lived in the Lake Shore a good part of my life.

We packed up our goods, and were at home on 6th Street.

My District extended from the OHIO

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Erie District

line to Silver Creek and back as far as Dayton, then extending west taking in Mayville, Phillipsville, Waterford, Cranesville, Albion to the state line.

I had the Lake Shore like a Paradise in Summer, and the Hill Crest which sometimes in Winter was a terror.

I used to banter friends at Sheridan by saying, When I am thro preaching give me 5 acres of grapes and I'll settle here, but no one was generous enough to take my offer and so here I am in Pasadena.

If one may say Joy of the whole Earth, it well maybe said the Lake Shore in Summer is the Joy of the whole Earth.

On of the Shores of Lake Erie, I have spent a good part of my life. 2 years as boy, 2 years at Simpson, 6 in the Eldership.

I learned to swim in the waters, and know the fun of the waters. I know the toil of the minister, and I know the care, the thought, the Joy too, and the preaching of the P.E.

Six years I went in and out before and among the people of the District. Twice only in 6 years did I fail to fill my appointments.

One week I preached six times, the other 4 times holding the Quarter Conferences, Ministering the Sacrement, often speaking before the leagues, This for 6 years.

Once I was laid up with Rheumatism and before I was well, I went to a charge wearing a rubber shoe over my swollen foot.

For six years I never failed to freeze my face, and in some of the storms, I nearly perished.

One Sunday morning I was at Phillipsville. It was clear, cold, the house was full. When thro, I asked is there anyone that can get me to Waterford?

MR. MOON can do it if anyone can. Yes, he said. Going a mile, we tipped over and my cheek was frosted. Before going three miles the horses waded thro snow up to their necks. When we had gone 4 we came to JOHN BRACES. I said, we will stop here half and hour and warm up.

Time up I said, We had better move.

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Erie District

The men went to the barn, drove up and we started. I percieved Bro MOON was rather glum. I said, it's your team and you are running all the risks. If you say the word, we will stop, you go home and I will stay with John overnight.

It was well, it was growing dark. The snow was fence high and we never could have made it. Afterwards I learned 2 dozen people were at church.

Once I was at Dewittville in the morning. It was mild, when we came from the church a soft snow was falling.

Making our way to Mayville, it grew bitter cold. When we arrived Bowers turned loose and cutter into my hands.

Down the Chautauqua I faced the storm. My eyes were peppered. I dug the snow out of my eyes, till my hands were so cold, I could not do it. When I drove up to the Parsonage, my left eye was closed. As soon as I was indoors my hands were put in snow water and my feet danced dog trot, turkey trot, fox trot or most anything.

Then to church. Thro all the services I went back to Mayville. I told BOWERS I would take the early train, if I wakened in time, and they must pay no attention to me.

In the morning I made my way thro the snow, at times knee deep. Just as I was within a few rods of the station, the big engine started towards me. It was snowing furiously. I waved my satchel and yelled, but the engineer could not see nor hear, and consequently I gave the monster the right of way. I had the privilege of wading back thro the drifts and taking my leave on the aternoon train.

One more snowstorm experience I will narrate.

It began at Westfield

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Erie District

The morning was mild and the service was enjoyable. I had to go to Ripley and then 2 miles on the Hill side.

Who drove me I cannot now recall. The west wind sprung up to a gale. We faced that cold blast for 10 miles.

When we reached Ripley I was well nigh perished.

My friend J.M. BREY was the pastor. Newton he said, You are going no farther. The snow is fence high and no one can get thro. If you did, there would no one be there to greet. It was good to have some one speak with authority, and harborage never was more welcome.

It turned out that some one living across from the church built a fire, but he was the only one to enjoy it.

My experience in strange beds was almost as fatal as my storm experiences. At Loweville, I was quartered with a farmer. Well to do and desirous of showing all honor to the P.E. They gave me a bed right off from the fire. Alas, there was bedding enough for an icelander, but I guess it had been made for years. Damp, damp, I rolled and tumbled and after 2 hours I warmed the bed.

After service I had to ride 10 or 12 miles. The wind was terrific. They gave me an umbrella, turned wrong side and I tossed aside.

Many of the miles I had guess where the road was. Reaching the Parsonage, I stopped and warmed, and pursued my journey. Going to miles I met parson WALKER, he going to an appointment. I rode on thro Finley Lake and 2 miles further. How happy I was to find the church full.

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Erie District

My ezperience with men. The ones for whom I did the most, costing me more time, tho't and prayer, abused me the most and found the most fault.

G.A. WILLIAMS, local Preacher, was at McKane. He was one of the finest readers I ever knew and he was a good preacher.

He crossed swords with some woman. A bleak icy day I rode 3 miles beyond to a church to meet all interested in settling the difficulty. There was a goodly company.

There always is when there's is war. REV'D Crouch from Edinboro was among the number. Why are you here? I did not send for you. Well, there may be a church trial and I want to know the case.

There will be no trail, I propose to settle the difficulty.

Before any inquiries, I said, we are all liable to make mistakes, and say things that are misunderstood, when we mean no harm. If you two will shake hands, thereby declaring. If I have in any way hurt you, I ask your forgiveness, and grant you mine.

The woman of it refused. She wanted an airing, to see the fire fly.

We worked from one till 4:00. The woman told her story, the man his. The most I could get out of it was that the Minister might have been indiscreet in some remarks, but the whole case was too trifling to be worthy of any notice.

Once Crouch interfered. When I gave him to understand that he was welcome to remain, but I would not stand for any interference.

At length the parties did what I advised on the start. However, the woman left the church and went to Edinboro.

But Williams was the cause of no little trouble. Discouraged over

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Erie District

some matter he visited me in Erie, and told his pitiful story. He decided to go back to his trade, Painting and papering.

Nothing moved him, as he went to his carriage, I shouted out the window, I guess you will take work again?

He did, but it would have been better for me had he not. His people wanted his return. Now in arranging work, the P.E. has to see that every Minister has a place, and the local preachers must take what is left. Someone took his place then his people pulled my hair, nor would they listen to reason.

During the course of events, his wife was sick. I slipped into his hand $2.00. Shortly she passed away. He sent for me to attend the funeral, at that time I gave him $5.00

When he afterwards came to be married, he forgot to ask me to the wedding.

Still later I read a letter from some Elder in the Pittsburg Conference asking about his qualifications.

I gave him as good send off as if he were a personal friend.

He served some years in the Pitts Conference and I know not if he be alive.

Now I resume the story of JOB STRATION.

Job stayed his year at Brockwayville, and at Conference asked me to bring him on to my District. I did and placed him at Mills Groves, now North Girard.

Later I sent him to Waterford. Then I was again in the back of his books.

It seems I was not yet done with Crouch.

PRATHER came to me and importuned me to give Crouch a place.

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No, I said, I don't want him. He makes trouble wherever he goes. Prather pleaded. Finally I said, I will take him if you take one of my men. I will give him Volutia, a hard circuit on the Hill sides.

Crouch came to me to see if I couldn't better. No I said, it's the only open place on my District. I don't want it. Allright. Another day he came and said he would accept it.

When my 5 years were up, he tried to pass a resolution requesting the Bishop not to appoint an Elder who had served six years. I had served one on the New Castle and 5 on the Erie. He failed.

Subsequently, having some trouble on his charge. I went with him to the Bishop to speak a word in his favor. I went gladly. His career is ended and he has gone to his reward. He had many noble, manly qualities and seemingly ought to have had more years in the Ministry.

Once Westfield was vacant. They had 2 men in store, CLEMENS and GILLETTE. Finally settling on Clemens and making overtures to him and he accepted. This shows how the strong charges do the calling and the Elder carries out their wishes.

A letter from one of my ministers requested me to give him a place. I replied you are the 4th who has made a similar request. It's a matter over which I have no controll. Westfields has settled the matter.

At Conference I had a lively time. Brock in Ridgeway had it's mind on Clemens, and sent lawyer Arnold to manage the case.

About Friday, he sought me out. We had a long talk going to my stopping place. I assured him I could not

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release Clemens from Westfield. He has made a bargain, now let him abide by it. Besides, no one is here from Westfield and they would consider me a traitor to their interests.

Sunday passed, Monday the man who was to go to Ridgeway read some report and was like some timid school boy. I watched the Bishop. I said, my cakes all dough. He called me up. Don't you think you had better let Clemens go to Ridgeway. No I replied, theres no way I can explain to Westfield and the agreement made must stand.

Well, you call the Elders to a Conference and whatever you agree will be satisfactory to me.

I called them to meet in a classroom, but only Mead and Prather came, and Arnold to present his cause. He said, we will give him 3.00 more than Westfield can or will.

At that Prather said, hadn't you better let Clemens go Stubbs? Prather, I replied, I'll tear your District to pieces if you say anything more. He subsided.

The Bishop had called a final Cabinet meeting in a classroom for that evening.

I was late, as mine host had a late supper. At the door of the classroom, I heard CHARLIE MEAD pleading my case. Thank you Lord.

Entering I heard the Bishop say, SMITH his host said he heard TAYLOR preach one of the finest sermons in that church that he ever heard. I will send TAYLOR to Ridgeway.

I breathed easy.

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It resulted well, for CLemens proved the mau for Westfield and Taylor for Ridgeway. At the end of 3 years, Clemens went to Ridgeway and I don't know about Taylor.

REV'D HUTSENPILLER was pastor at 7th. He had a 4 year pastorate.

At one quarterly Confernce, I called for reports. Hutsenpiller informed me I was chairman of Temperance Commity. I expressed my surprise. It was not supposed the Elder would serve on commities. I put you on. Since that is the case, next time I come I will ask you what you will do on the Temperance.

We did not wait. The storm broke then and there.

BYRON WALKER said it's too bad. What's too bad? Why, there's a boys club in which are high school boys. They serve beer and wine as they do in mens clubs.

Not long since 6 of those boys went to the Red light district and hired a woman to strip herself naked. Too bad. Don't we owe those boys something? I don't know what you mean said Byron. I mean just what I say. Don't know what you mean. I replied, the only way we get anything in our country is by ballots. That's what we owe, ballots. There was a lively time. I tried to go on with my question, when someone would fire up on Temperance. A certain lawyer became sarcastic and slurred the poohis. Not one particle did I yield, and we had a sharp tilt at arms.

They were all convinced I knew my ground. When at last we adjourned, they still were discussing. The ples was you can't do anything. Going home, STRONG and SULLIVAN said, you are posted. That's my business I replied.

It is noteworthy that the ministry in Erie were in the grip of liquor and no man dare utter his sentiments.

It so continued till Billy Sunday

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broke the shackled and then came the freedom of the Pulpit.

The Pastors of the city had their weekly gathering and most of the time I could get home in time to attend the meetings. For some reason I was asked to take the Temperance cause.

One time I ventured to say, we are all cowards and dare not express our convictions. There was one man, WILSON of the United Presbyterian church, that boldly championed the Temperance cause. It was fun to see how Minister after Minister sought to justify himself from my charge.

At last it came to the Swedish Lutheran. I am not afraid of my people. I dare speak my views. I married a rich wife, and if the church puts me out we can live. What a room there was.

At the end of 4 years, 7th St wanted a change.

It was disttressing to me for Dr H. was an able man, and it was humiliating to him to feel that he was no longer wanted. But I came to pass, The Dr took a year off and spent it in Europe.

Returning he bro't many momentos. Nobody opened the door to him, so he became a guest of ours for 2 weeks. The lion over the clock was a gift from him.

The Dr finally wound up in San Francisco and served a term in the Eldership. His wife sued him for divorce and the Judge instead of granting it to her, granted it to him.

I have met him several times in our church, South Pasadena he lives.

ANDY ELLIS followed and remains 5 or 6 years. He was one of the most successful ministers in the Conference. I guess no man held Erie, Meadville, Oil City, Jamestown a life term. He has gone to his reward.

At Wayne St. A.A. HORTON held

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several a good Pastorate. I thought he was doing reasonably well, but some of the 8th St, who was largely maintaining it as a mission, wanted a change.

The Committee met at our house and stated their views. As they furnished the money, removal was the only thing to do.

Now gentleman, you will inform BRO. HORTON of your decision. Not much, What's the P.E. for, but to do those things.

Funny isn't it, when they want a Minister they call him. When they want him to go, the Elder must bear the news.

That night Horton walked to the street car. How it did rain, and the storm for Horton was worse. Completely surprised, my heart ached for him. Like a man he bore it, and the only opening I had was Wattsburg, and he did a noble work. He was every inch a man.

There are some distressing things mixed at times with the humorous.

CRAWFORD was stationed at Punxsutawney. He must move. Why he should move across the whole Conference and land in my District. I couldn't understand.

Instictively I felt he was coming. I tried to stop him at Wattsburg, that failed. Then I headed him for Chautauqua, no no. Then it was Silver Creek. Never do Bishop (Fowler). Why? And his jaws came together like a steel trap. I explained.

The matter dropped. The Bishop came back the second and third time. You can make the appointment, but it will be over my protest.

I will consent to send him to Forestville, not because I want him, but because the people there are solid, substantial, and will bear what Silver Creek would not.

So it came to pass. Crawford plainly indicated to the people that it was a great come down for him. The people said nothing.

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When the year closed he thought the people would fairly get on their knees to have him stay.

How shocked he was when they plainly informed him he must go.

Again came the tug of war. I had no place exepting Crainsville, the poorest charge on the District. He all, but refused to go. His brother-in-law was talking of going west on account of his health. Now if he goes, I'll do my best to get his place for you. That pacified.

But his brother-in-law decided to remain where he was. He has since been living in Colorado and Phoenix and California. Now it was Crainsville or nothing. No Elder would touch him.

To Crainsville he went and worked along till next May when General Conference met in Chicago.

To that he made a visit. Returning he reached Cleveland, where seized by a stroke, he fell dead.

I wrote his wife I would gladly be of any service I could. His remains were taken to Meadville, but I had no invitation to attend.

Some what later I recieved a letter from Crainsville. Which gave me a great overhalling for the way I had treated Mr. C. I kept that letter, and in due time some writings of Mrs C. came into my possession. They were identical. Thus cloud that chapter. She too had joined the immortals.

I was greatly disappointed in one man, Ryan. When I first met him, it was at the Preachers meeting. He was quite inviting in appearance, good singer and full of promise. I found him in Asbury. I announced the hymm. He joined lustly in 2 verses, then his mouth closed. At one time there was an Epworth gathering at a private house. He was

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1894 - 1900

present. It happened the leader was not there. Instead of taking charge, he went away, and there was no service.

Many queer things his people charged against him, and he must move.

He had spent a Sabboth at Mills Grove and informed me he had a call to go there.

I will not stand in your way. If they want you, there you will go.

Holding my 4th Quarter Conference, I went to the home of the leading member, and in our conversation I asked him whom they wanted.

It is not so much whom we want, as whom we don't want. We don't want Ryan.

I exchanged him for someone else.

How funny things turned out. Graham gave me Dayton and there I found Ryan.

His people were up in arms. He had charged the girls with bad names. Naturally the people were down on him.

One time in the winter, he was attending a funeral. As he kept no horse, one of the members offered his. It was refused and he rode his bicycle at the head of the procession. That did not add to his popularity.

Later he informed me that one BAKER in Dakota desired to come to our Conference, and would exchange with him.

I was not slow in making the exchange. Baker and family were soon in the Parsonage. For a number of years he has been among us, a very acceptable preacher, and his children have turned out well. Ryans career I never knew.

Every year we had our Preachers meetings and Epworth gatherings. They were seasons of great good, both to the members and people. The leagues grew in inpressive good influence.

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At an Epworth gathering at Ripley we secured the services of PROF MONTGOMERY of Allegheny College, who gave a fine lecture on electricity. For the first time that audience saw the xray. How astonished we all were to see how the ray went thro a thick song book and then thro the human hand.

One thing went into every programme, both for the preacher and league for six years. Temperance, nor for 6 years did I fail to present the cause.

J.B. ESPY was at North east. While there I buried 2 of his daughters, one married lived close by us. The other single living at home. Lovely women, both.

He followed BEACH and Beach took his place in Fredonia. The North East had insisted on Beach leaving, he was like the cat, back up. He was wanted at Fredonia at 200 more than he was receiving at North East, but his back did not come down for a long time after he was in Fredonia.

Beach was remarkable as a preacher. I have listened to him when it seemed to me his sentences were like pearls and diamonds. When thro, I said, whats he driving at? Then again his effort would be unpointed, logical and convincing.

He was transferred to the New York East Conference, where he died.

To show how fickle preachers and people are, I cite the case, NICHOLS at Dunkirk.

He came to me on the train going to Miles Grove to our preachers meeting

Asked to see me. I fixed 1:00. He informed me he had made up his mind to move. We sometimes are discouraged, and feel we are doing no good. It isn't best to precipitate matters. Think it over and it may be your will

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desire to remain. No, I insist on moving. I wrote to SCOFIELD to see if he would give him a place. He said he never recieved it. However, I took BORLAND for Forestville and HUMASON took NICHOLS, and gave him to C. MEAD. When I came to the 4th Quarter Conference GIDLEY and PERKINS met me and greatly excited. They must have an exchange, but they wanted to do it without giving any offense.

I said, it won't be necesary to say anything about us. Nichols had positively decided to move and I had already exchanged him for another man.

So the Conference passed off, no words of change mentioned.

But it happen two or three women wormed it out of Nichols that he was going to move. They painted the town red, and that officials board repented in sack cloth and ashes, and invited Nichols to return.

I wrote back. I wonder if I have a lot of children with whom to deal. He passed out my hands. I have no objection to Nichols return, but you will have to go to the Bishop.

Nichols came to me at Conference, so did the committe. Anything the Bishop will do for you will be perfectly satisfactory to me. I don't think the Bishop will return him for he has a man he wants in Dunkirk. Neither party sought the Bishop.

Then I had my experience with the Bishop. He wanted to bring THOBURN from Witchita, Kansas. He gave a glowing account of his man. Yes, I said, Bishop let him take his chances the same as we all had to do. If he is all you say he is, you can't keep him down. I can't yield the place to an outsider when I have a man worthy of the place, and I won out. THORBURN came to Grace and RENO to Dunkirk.

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1894 - 1900

Here I give my experience with Bishop VINCENT. I could not add to his greatness. Nor can I take from the admiration in which he is held.

He did a work for the U.S. that all the colleges have failed to do. He made the American people a reading people.

For some reason we always crossed swords.

He presided at Erie. I have no recollection of ever going into the Cabinet when he gave us a cordial greeting. He would look up from his book over his glasses and nod.

He never failed to bulldoze us on the Temperance question.

NEFF had said to me at Chautauqua. I have an offer to go into the Pittsburg Conference. Don't you go, you are sure of the best in our Confenece. Pittsburg owes us no great favor. I feel sure I can open Simpson for you.

When the case came up in the Cabinet, the Bishop said with a kind of a sneer, O he's one of these hotheaded proke fanatics. Bishop, you are mistaken. Neff may be a proke, I don't know, but he's not a fanatic, but level headed.

The case of JOHN LUSHER came up. He had unwisely gone to Madison, Wisconsin and had not won out, Now New Castle wanted him. Bishop again spoke out. He did not care to bring him back. He was another Temperance fanatic.

Bishop you are mistaken. John is one of the most level headed men in our Ministry. We gained our points. Neff came to Simpson and John to New Castle.

He took particular pains to tell the Ministers to study Episcopal and Presbyterian Ministers as models.

I forbear to cite cases where he personally injured me. I add with all that he deserve, he was a bulldozer.

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It was at this same Conference, at a Cabinet meeting in my study (no Bishop) that GEOSS0 HUMASON rec'd a telegram from Duluth, asking him to take the pulpit.

He was greatly elated. They want me to raise the $50,000. debt. He accepted, but he raised only $5000. It was a crusher and SAMMY LONG broke down under the load.

Neff came to Simpson. It was an exceedingly fortunate appointment.

In one year he doubled the membership. It gave Simpson a boost, a stepping into the spot light from which it has never taken any back set. Now one of the most desirable stations in Conference.

I speak of the SHENK family. When I was pastor at Simpson, the Shenks were among the poorest of the flock. How now he had risen, honesty and ability. While yet living he had a state wide reputation which his sons are rather increasing.

The GAGGIN family too has come into great prominence. Richard, the father, was a man of great abilities. His luniary tastes were of the finest. If i had means, I do not know a man whom I would rather trust to buy me a library than Mr. Graggin.

He knew prominent men in and out of the church. As I have never known his equal. I saw him reduced to poverty and saw him rise to comfortable living.

But what is of more consequence, he had 3 boys and 2 girls. He sent every one of them to Syracuse Univesity, and every one of them is an honor to the country.

How the parents managed is beyond me.

For intelligence and benevolence, the Erie District is behind none of the Districts.

It would be a pleasure to write of beautiful things, and charming persons I found in every charge on the District,

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but it would swell into a book and become tiresome.

When my six years were up, the 1st church sent a petition to Conference to have me returned, but it was not then popular to have one serve 2 terms, as it had since become, and is now falling into desuetude. My District presented me with a splended gold headed cane. I have passed it into the hands of Chase. The cane I most used was given to me by my old friend LOWRY, who dug the bamboo and fixed it up, and I have made considerable use of it. Tho I am not greatly given to it's use.

J.B. ESPY suceeded me on the District. He was not over scrupulous in asking the favor of the Brethen, assuring one man I could give him North East, if I would. He was no more fitted for the place than a hen is in water. I gave Espy a calling down, tho so far as the Eldership was concerned, I had not the least objection to his having the place.

When the request came, Erie was made known. Bishop FOSO said, you would not wish to stand in any ones way from having the honor. Certainly not.

The Cabinet saw fit to send me to Greenville. At the same time came a telegraph from there saying if any grey headed man came he would starve.

Bishop sent me to Fredonia, but with one accord, the Cabinet said no.

Very good, I go. Thus ended my service as Presiding Elder.

Sat'y eve Lizzie and I, full of courage, went to Greenville. Some of the Brethen met us cordially and quartered us at one of the hotels, and paid the score.

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1900 - 1903

First Sunday in Greenville was a triumph. I was master of the situation. My text was, Thy People shall be my people and thy God my God.

My ministry in Greenville was a joyous one, in many ways stormy.

It use to be said the Eldership spoils a man, makes him lazy.

Never did I work harder, never perpare so many sermons. My rule had ever been to prepare a new sermon every week, and revamp an old one. Many times I had 2 new ones, and the criticism that came later never questioned my pulpit acceptability. The Pulpit was my throne, and God gave me courage to meet the issures of the hour.

Lizzie was very prominent in all the church life and was leader of the W-N-M-Sy, and was second to none in ability to fill her station. Gertrude and Blosson were the only children then living at home.

Prayer meeting were well attended and spiritual. Sunday school was large and vigorous, and ranked high in Benevolance. I had a class of young people, some 24, in age from 16 to 20. They were fine and I enjoyed my class hugely.

It grieved me some to part with them. So far as I know, they turned out well.

One however, weary of the world, joined the hosts above.

I made it my business to know my people and every family attending church. The membership in round numbers was 600. It was a delight to see them in their homes, and they were very dear to me. There is nothing in this world so glorious as the life of the minister with his people. Their joy and sorrow are one. He knows our sorrows and is aquainted with our griefs, is the picture of the true Shephard.

In the 3 years I made over 1600

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calls the first year and over 1800 the 2nd and over 1700 the 3rd.

In the close of the last year, I was curious to compare our growth in memebership with that of the prominent churches in the Conference. Our accessions were 92. To my astonishment no other church had 10, some just held their own and one or two lost in number.

In Benevolence, I told the Bishop McCABE, I brought more missionary money to Conference than Meadville, Union City and Cambridge combined. He was astonished, but his minutes bore me out.

I may say in regarding our Benevolence. I introduced a new method which was observed for a number of years. I know not how it is now.

At one of our first official meetings, I said, Brethen we have some 12 Benevolences. That would be one every month. What ever you say, I will do. Let me suggest that we make an Easter offering and raise the whole amount. They unanimously adopted the plan.

During December and January and February giving became one of the ideas kept prominentely before the people in the prayer services and I presented the various causes in the pulpit.

One of my good letters stretched across the organ in a white ribbon, 1000 Easter offering. Then I took a black board and printed all the Benevolence and the amounts the church expected us to raise. Now you want to raise it. Let's do no begging, lets give from our hearts and our brains and our prayers and bring our gifts on Easter day.

About 2 weeks before Easter one of the prominent men came and said it was going to be a failure. I can't say you agreed to try. It is now to late to change. Two spinsters came to

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me and asked if some of this money was going to retired Ministers. Certainly. Then we won't give. Well now, I'll tell you what I will do. Any amount you wish to give, I will send directly to New York. They were suspicious and kept their purses closed.

Easter came, glorious morning. Easter was my theme and always has been.

At the close of my sermon, it grew suddenly dark and a breath made the windows tremble. I said, we are all safe, and let no one be frightened. I appointed 5 good men and true to recieve the envelpoes, and count the money and report to me at night.

When I went into my pulpit, they reported. We've got it, we've got it, I jubulantely said. Shortly after my pessimistic friend added $25. to his offering.

That breath that made the church shiver, did no little damage to the Presbyterian church 5 miles away in Jamestown. The chimney came crashing thro and knocked the minister down on to the alter rail, and his face terribly, and I know not if he ever preached again.

For many years the Easter offerings became popular, and all the Benevolences were ever raised.

One of the most touching incidents happened in Greenville. A young woman far gone in TB was frequently visited by me, WILSON the name. Once when I called she distressingly said, O Mr Stubbs, I can't say "Thy will be done". Never mind I said, Jesus understands. He knows how beautiful life looks to you. Now tonight when all alone, tell him how glorious life appears to you, how you do want to live. Then try and add, Nevertheless not my will, but thine be done. Don't be discouraged. Next night do the same.

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In a few days I was there again. She could hardly wait for me to take my seat, when her face all radiant, she cried out, O I can say it, I can say it. I think it was one of the sublimist triumphants I ever witness. Thus victorious she took her departure to the Celestial World.

At the end of my first year one of my women, active in the W C T U came and asked what to do. Explaining the discouraging situation with regard to their work.

Time and again they had plead with the Judge MILLER to refuse licenses.

Now Judge Miller was a prominent member of the Presbyterian church in Mercer, and Sup't of the Sunday school.

He promised the women if they would stand by him, he would hit the saloons hard.

Before election it was discovered he could not be elected without the Whiskey vote.

A deal was made, $400.00 with the most notorious hotel and he won, paid for the office. He even had stock in a noted New Castle Brewery. On an Easter Sunday attended a banquet with noted whiskey men and against the protest of one of the steel mills, put a saloon at the very gates of the works. How the mighty had fallen.

I said to Mrs [blank], let me see what I can do. That was the beginning of the Temperance battle that ended by defeating the Judges reelection.

I sent a letter to the Judge Congratulating him on the success of his children he had in Greenville. The last one, the vilest in the place, had opened the sidewalk from the saloon to the opera house, where the Elks were to mourn their lost members and he was expected to join the mourners. However he didn't come.

But their you know we must have the votes and the saloon makes them give us some more.

Moreover I had 25 families

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1900 - 1903

that are suffering from drink. A Dr, who once was a member of the M.E.Church, who ought to be alive and one of the wealthiest and most prominent citizens, lately knocked his wife down and ended his life by an overdose of some poison.

But Judge, we must have the votes. Give us more saloons.

Shortly I read a reply saying if what you say is true, you need a lawyer and some witnesses. That's just what I wanted, I sent another letter.

O no Judge, we don't want any lawyer and witnesses. We do want a Judge that has some backbone.

Now Judge, you know that if the best woman in this place were to protest, it wouldn't be any more that the idle hand and if the best man in town were to protest, it would'nt be any more than the buzzing of flies.

Now Judge, if your religion be true, and my religion be true, some day you will have to give account to Almighty God for your administration, and witnesses that will appear in your behalf won't give you any more comfort that the ghost that appeared to Richard 111, on the eve of his dooms day.

No reply came to that.

At the beginning of the 3rd year, I went with some of the town ministers to Mercer to the Court where licenses were granted.

We were early. The other ministers knew the Judge and went and shook hands, I kept my seat. I was not aware that he saw me or knew me. Court was opened, Judge on the bench, but writing apparently oblivious to anything.

This is the method of granting licenses. Mr Lawyer sets down facing the applicant. Check by jowl.

A young dapper fellow, took

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the chair. From Wheatland. I could but feel, how sad such a young man would go into the saloon business. Questions were asked till finally the lawyer said, There were no objections from any source. What the Judge said (Evidently while writing he still knew what was going on) are there no Presbyterians in Wheatland? Yes. Didn't they object? No sir. Any Methodist there. Yes sir, Didn't they protest? No sir. Send Mr. Stubbs down there. All right Judge, I'll go.

Another link in the chain, REV'd R.S. BORLAND was our pastor at Mercer. He called on me one day and asked me if I would exchange with him next Sabboth.

Now the Dr was having trouble with his eyes and could hardly see to do his work for the pulpit, Certainly I said, so Sat'y eve I went.

At the supper table his wife said, Did you know you were to preach the Union sermon tomorrow evening in the Presbyterian church? The rascal I said. He never said a word while I did some thinking. I had prepared to preach a Temperance sermon, and to myself I said, I came to preach that sermon, so Temperance will be my theme.

That church was packed and it was a big room.

In the midst of my sermon, I told this incident, when in Silver Creek calling on an old couple, not church members, but heard the first sermon I ever tried to preach at Cherry Creek, I found her in great distress. What's the matter? "My husband is drinking himself to death".

Now I never knew he drank. There were in Silver Creek 3 places that sold liquor. I have been to all and requested them not to sell my husband liquor. The last place, the bar keeper stepped from behind the bar, shook his fist in my face saying "I'll sell him I damn please".

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Now I said, how would you like someone to do that to youe mother? It seems as if I could see every man in the house double his fists as much to say. He would never do it again.

When I was thro, many came and shook hands congratulating me. One said "did you know Judge Miller was in the audience"? All right, he has what he deserves. That ended my doings with the Judge.

I continued my assults on the grafters of all parties, never criticising any party.

I had a druggest in my church who did not sell, but allowed his customers to go in the rear, deposit the coin and take his ???. He had no love for me and he influenced 3 of my men to defeat my return to the charge. Up to that time I was the only man who remained 3 years.

During my stay happened the assassination of Pres. McKinley. It was during my Conference at Union City,

It fell to my lot to send a telegram of condolence to Buffalo.

Before we adjourned the President passed away. I was one of a committe to draft a paper expressing the sentiment of the Conference. The others put it on me to prepare the paper. I did so and paper was unanimously adopted.

Returning home the town was greatly agitated and a public demonstration was arranged to be held in the opera house. There were 3 ministers chosen to speak. Afterwards my chief antagonist said my paper was the best of all.

There were 3 retired ministers in my church, REV JOHN PEATE, W.P. BIGNELL, and MOSSMAN. They were choice spirits. John Peate was an extrodinary man.

He was a very able preacher, he was a great traveler, and he made the first

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large reflector, 48 inches in diameter. I saw it often in the process of grinding.

At Conference John made the statement that if the Washington University would furnish the glass and a border, he would grind such a reflector. They were to have 2 years to do their part. The time was about up. I sent an article to the N.Y church advocate saying if the University desired such a reflector, it would have to bestir itself. They woke up, gave the requisite funds. John went to Butler to the glass works and told what he wanted. They made a casting, and it was a failure. Then John went to the factory and told them how to cast the glass. It was a success and John ground the reflector. It was the first large glass ever made, and that after the WARNER bros of Cleveland had said it can't be done.

Now M.L. WILSON has a glass 100 inches in diameter. John pioneered the way.

Many the interviews we had. Just a week before he passed away, calling he had me read the passage from Shakespear that TENNYSON had his fingers on as he was entering behind the bar.

I called at the house as he was passing away, but did not go in.

BIGNALL and I had arranged to send out 100 cards to Ministers to attend the funeral. To my astonishment and honor, the family refused to have a church funeral. Kate was a spokeswoman and issued the orders. There was to be no display, no eulogy. MOSSMAN was to pray, BIGNELL make the remarks. Oh she said, I did not mean to slight you. That's allright, I took the morning service yesterday for a memorial. She expressed her surprise.

I had a call from someone asking if it would be proper for REV. McKAY, U.P. pastor to make some remarks as they both belonged to some exclusive library club.

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What ever the families desire will be granted. When we came to the hour of services. Kate came to me and said, The Presbyterian minister was there from Youngstown, and they had made a compact to attend the funeral of the survivor. Would it be proper for her to speak?

What ever you say will be done. The services proceeded and were certainly very fine, and just what could have been desired for such a noble man.

Kate came to me and said, that's just what Father could have wished.

The whole was Eulogy, Eulogy from beginning to end, after she gave orders that no Eulogy should be offered.

Afterwards I wrote the memoir for the P.C.A. When Kate read it she was wild with joy. It was great, it was a poem. Her bitterness had passed away, and she became very friendly. She is somewhere in Southern California, tho I have never seen her.

When BIGNESS passed within the veil, the church was crowded to it's capacity. Several ministers were present and participated. I do not recall the speakers.

My friend John R. PACKERD said, yours was the best of all.

Many weeks I had the habit of visiting some factorys on Saturdays.

One Sat'y, on wheel, I went down to a big Rolling Mill, I went to the Sup't office and asked if I could go thro the works. No sir, Allright I don't wish to be anything contrary to your rules and off I rode.

After I was out of sight he inquired who that man was. Why the Methodist Minister, Chargrened, and mortified he sent me word several times to came any time.

Across the road from us lived one

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BROWN, who knew James in Chicago, and a worker in the Mill. I told him my cold reception. I'll fix that and he hired a coach and took his wife, my wife and myself, and we all went thro that mill and saw the Titans at work in the fury night.

I had some experience with the Catholic Priest. We were on good terms and exchanged calls.

He was greatly offended that he was not invited to the McKINLEY memorial. Shortly on some invitation I attended what they call a mission.

The Priest, a stranger had been posted, and he took occasion to lame into me for slighting their Priest. He was a citizen and had a right to be invited to the public demonstration.

So when Memorial day approached, I bro't the matter before the Post and requested them to invite the Priest to make the address. They balked and didn't like the idea, but they yielded to my persuasion, and I bore him our request.

He refused, and to the joy of the Post, I had that pleasure to perform.

One day a man called on the parsonage, and requested me to bury his baby.

The Priest had promised to bury the babe in the public cemetery consecrating the ground. Certainly I said, and nothing more was thought of it. In just a year the man came again, his wife had died. The priest had given extreme unclion, and promised to bury the mother on the side of her baby. At the last hour the Priest back out, and I buried the mother. The house was full, and I presume half the people were Roman Catholic.

I said I have no quarrel with this womans religion. She believed in my Christ. I won the good will of the Roman Catholic.

Farther when labor day came the Priest and I were the only ones invited

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to ride in the parade. A storm arose so that we escaped the making of speeches.

I promise I was known as friendly to the laborers, which is true. For years I has stood by the cause, and only regret that I did not go into their lodge when I was urged while In Erie.

We had a remarkable man in the church, MR HODGE, owner of a foundry, employing a large number of men. Every year he gave a picnic for the Sunday school. He chartered the train, paid all the expenses to and from Conneaut Lake. It was a gala day. I do not know whether he keeps it up at the present. He also had the custom of giving a feast to all old people. Unfortunates that had no ties to bind them to what we call society.

He also maintained a Sunday school on his side of the river, no across from where he lives. It has succeeded so well that there is a church formed and maintains a minister.

I married his oldest daughter to a Medical Missionary, somewhere at the heart of the persian gulf. It was a church wedding, and the church was packed. In due time the bride and her father appeared at the alter, but no man. I stood with book in hand awaiting the groom. It became painful, but I stood like a statue. By some misunderstanding, he was in room below expecting some notice. Some one took it on himself to hunt him up. Down he came, no grass growing under his feet and the ceremony was performed.

The couple labored in that far off land for a few years, but were compelled by failing health to seek the homeland and are now in the Country.

The second daughter married a Lutheran student of their college. As the day approached two or three students called and asked when the wedding was to be and the town. They wanted the band to make merry. There was no secret, so I informed them. The ceremony was performed, and the refreshment

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when the band came marching along. Mr Hodge invited them to the feast. The boys were in for a jollification, but the feast was too good to miss.

When thro they began to look round for the couple, but they were alive in the salutation and slipped out the back door, went thro the Foundry, crossed the Rail Road tracks and there took a carriage and whisked away 6 milees to take the train.

If you ever saw a crestfallen crews those students, that band, they were a sight.

The groom is somewhere in the Lutheran church, a minister.

John R. PACKARD was a man of rare parts, an Episcopalian, tho I think he did little or nothing for that church. He was one of my best friends, and so continued thro many years till death took him on the long, long journey. A man who never forgot his friends. On his return from his long journeys, after visiting his children, he went to see his friend, HULL, a poor man.

Mr P. was a widower for many years. He had accumulated quite a fortune.

For many years he spent 3 or 4 months traveling. Once he made the trip round the world. His letters were published in the Jamestown Journal, which he ordered sent while making the journey. The letters were choice reading. One would think him a literary man. Delightful entertainer in his own home. At ease and making his guests at ease. His conversations were delightful. He was no globe trotter, he knew the people and their land.

He was invited by the league to describe his Eastern travels. He had never made an address in his life. The basement was crowded. He was as much at ease as if his life had been trained for public speaking.

One time I wrote him, I don't see where you are going unless you become

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a bird and fly to the poles, for you have been everwhere so to speak.

Like a bird, he flew to seek the Heavenly lands.

Thiel College, a noted Lutheran plant, and after it's resurrection a very worthy one.

The Authorities were not above asking for our church for some public service, granted with pleasure, Now not an official ever called on me, nor asked me to visit the college or attend chapter.

Nor yet did the Lutheran minister call. I noted when there was some public function and the faculty and the students were at a certain hotel, the faculty and students were served with liquor.

I mention these things to note the change in the course of years, and Prohibition became national. The narrowness and exclusivness I guess prevail to this day.

At the end of the 2nd year it became apparent that GBC had determined I must leave. The GBC was the dictator for many years. Men came at his beck, and left at his nod. When any of the young people failed to walk after his interpretation of the discipline he informed the preacher, and the poor person had to go and inform the Transgressors that they must behave or leave the church. At one time some half dozen young people left and the Presbyterians were more than glad to recieve them. One of the best members of the church said to me I don't see why my son should be forced out of the church, while another church is only to glad to welcome him. However, when GBC's son was bringing scandal on the good name of his people, the GBC never came to me to visit his son for walking disorderly, and I told him so.

For the credit of the young man. I believe after his marriage he has had a very common life. Our friend Tell???? said to us in the parsonage on the eve of going to Conference, 6/8 of our people want you back. My last Sunday, one of our members at the close of the service put a gold coin in my hand and said, I know what is going on, it's wrong. I hope you come back.

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1900 - 1903

GBC and 2 associates made all the feeling. In fact I do not think there was any feeling outside of the 3. They followed me to Conference and laid their complaints before Bishop McCABE. I called on the Bishop and heard the grievances. I answered them all, and finally the Bishop said, Will you go back. No, I said. The Bishops hesitancy grew out of the fact that he didn't like Prohibition, and in his closing remarks before Conference he gave us to understand that the Republicans and Democrats would take care of the liquor question.

He apologized for sending me to Cambridge Springs because there was no other place of the grade of Greenville.

I loved Greenville, I loved the people. I said to one good bro', I love every brick in the old building. I have observed in the course of my ministry that many churches are blessed with a dictator who holds the people under his thumb. Meadville was such a church and one man made it's appointments for quarter of a century. Preachers went and came at his command. At one time it is said he had more influence with the Bishop than any man in Methodism.

He fell so low that he was the whiskey man of the town. He ran for public office, and it was circulated in every grocery in the county that at General Conference he voted for a strong Temperance resolution. That killed him after he had spent $30,000 campaigning.

He died shame of his influence. There should be Leadership in every church, but not dictatorship.

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Cambridge Springs

1903 - 1906

Beautiful little town, summer resort. It's many mineral springs brought crowds of summer health seekers.

It's citizens were Americans. There were few forign elements, tho the Jews began coming in great force before I left.

The Catholics, a feeble folk, burst into prominence shortly after my departure. The big hotel dominating the whole country for miles around, by some hook or crook, passed into the hands of the Polish Catholics. They have a flourishing school, and have erected the finest church in the place.

Whether it has brought many Catholic families into the place, I am unable to say. These things came to pass after my 3 years.

I went in the season of the visitors and our little church was crammed.

But when the season was over it looked as if a hurricane had struck us, and one felt lonely looking over the ruins.

We got use to things by making the best of it. Somehow I have loved every place I ever lived. Good people everywhere, and I never gave my people any chance to doubt I loved them. The best I had I have always given to my church. REV W.A. COBB was minister in the Presbyterian church. We lived just across the road from each other, became good friends and remain so to this day.

Not long ago he called on me as he was taking a trip thro California.

On my arrival I found Cambridge Springs was a circuit, taking on Mill Village 3 miles away. At the first official meeting I bro't up the situation. Brethen I said, I have preached 3 times on Sunday. I think my share. I will not preach 3 times for any people. I will do the pastoral work for Mill Village, but not preach.

Now they were getting $100. from Mill Village

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and the officials looked blue. They were pay $900 and the $100 came from the out appointments. Do just as you please Brethen. I will not preach 3 times. There is work enough here to keep a man busy.

In the end they fixed the salary at $1000., and soon rejoiced that they were alone. They saw it was best for them, tho at first it looked dark.

Mill Village in a year was placed with Millers.

Our church is a beautiful one, only small in mid summers. Our Sunday school was small, so were all in the town.

Methodists, Prebyterians and Baptists were ready to pick up every youngster in town.

I had the adults in the audience room before service in the morning and we had a class.

We had a good organ, and good singing. I introduced the new hymnal, and we began the responsive readings.

Prayer meetings were good, tho slimly attended. Quite a contrast to our Greenville prayer services. Somehow most of every church are shy about praying. They are willing that others should pray for them.

The homes were delightful. When I came to meet the families it was a pleasure. Intelligent, social, and I knew all my people, and often on my wheel, made a circuit of 10 miles so the country people were not neglected.

My wife was active in both Missionary Socities, tho she was president of the home. As I have not recorded, she was the Conference President of W H M society for 9 years. Eschewing to failing health, had to resign. Those gatherings were well attended, and the suppers in the basement were well patronized, and bright with social spirits. Sunshine and wholesome atmosphere.

The churches ususally held some kind of Union services during

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Cambridge Springs

1903 - 1906

the winter, each minister taking part. The results were not very flattering.

However, one season the 3 ministers united and we employed an evangelist to our sorrow. Tho little excitment was created and many professed conversion, but very few came into the churches.

I have watched the great Evangelist, Billy Sunday and I have lost confidence in the permanency of his work.

In one particular, the good he has done is beyond value. He has made the world his debtor for hurrying on the Prohibition movement in this country, but the converts have not strengthened the churches.

I give my opinion. Revivals that spring naturally from church conditions are of vital importance, I am fully convinced that at present the church should throw its mighty efforts to bring childhood and youth to accept Christ and then give them Christian training.

As in the past, I made it my business to know my people, and I knew them in their homes. Besides, I became aquainted with many families that were not connected with the church. While Cambridge Springs was unpretentious, it was made up of a very fine class of citizens, and the church people made chioce friends. As everywhere the minister does not go to Heaven on flowery beds of ease. There are thorns among the roses.

One bitter winter day, I started out to make calls. When in front of the Rider Hotel, it was impressed on my mind, a woman had just been dismissed from the hospital. I'll go and see. I turned up a side street

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and waded thro snow in places up to my knee. Coming to the house outside was a picture of desolation. No wood, no coal. Entering I found the last coal was burning and wood for cooking. It was a typical drunkards family. Waste, waste. There was the mother with a baby. Two children, boy and girls, the elder say 16, some 5 children in all.

After taking in the situation, I marched downtown, found a load of wood, secured some coal and bo't some provisions and relieved the immediate wants. The family never forgot, even the man must have been impressed.

He managed to provide something, but he like all drinkers, was a slave. Coming spring he went down into Virginia and secured work in a lumber country. Where there was no liquor and worked industriously, and finally sent for his family. I informed her how to find our Deaconess in the Pittsburg depot, and she would see that she was put on the right train to go to her husband.

The family was united and as the years went by, the girl was married and the boy earned a good wage.

For some years after coming to California, I read letters from her.

The lighted candle sometimes shines a good ways in this naughty world.

Another incident will illustrate the neglect of home training. For 2 or 3 months the son of a rich man was at Redir.

I saw him on horse back a few times. He was in Europe some years and as he said was drunk all the time. The parents in despair sent him to Canbridge Springs in hopes the watering place would reform him.

This was his home training, the father said, my son shall not be a dridge as I was. The mother doted on her boy. When he was little all he need do to gain his point was to go into tantrums. Kick up his heels, throw himself on the floor and scream.

The mother surrendered.

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The young man brought a young woman, his affiance, and boarded her in a hotel. She was to all appearance a fine woman. Her life, I never knew. She was one of those who tho't she could reform him. The result in all such cases is the man ruins the wife, and makes Hell on Earth.

The young man was finally given a room at the Rider. The former occupant left a quart of wood alcohol. The nurse informed the doctor, for he was so debauched he had a nurse, one whom I know well.

The doctor said, well that old fool won't touch that alcohol. Well he did, and in 24 hours he was a dead man.

The father and a Bro came from Rochester. We had prayer in the funeral parlor and the young man was taken to Rochester. They took the young woman and she remained in their home a few weeks and returned to Cambridge Springs. The father sent $10.00 for my services. I know nothing of that womans subsequent career.

There was a Hospital owned by MR.TODD. Many times I was called there to visit some sick person.

One day I was called on the phone. Some woman who said she had known me some years ago, and was now very sick.

I went to her room, no one of whom I had any memory. She bro't things to my recollection, and I could place.

She was suffering with heart disease and tho't she was going to die.

I talked and sang and prayed. Finally I said, you are not going to die. You will be well again. Before she had fully recovered her husband came.

One night after service, I always betook myself to the door and shook hands with everybody. This evening I noticed a tall man, fine appearance, lingering, and he desired to speak with me.

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Reaching his hane, he said, I suppose you do not know me. No, I said.

Do you rememeber the man who came to your door in Petrolia, and opening the door you said, come in Brother. Yes, yes. I am the man. That greeting led to my conversion.

Strange to meet after so many years, and under such circumstances.

It was his wife I had assured would get well.

Still later I met them in Warren and for aught I know, they are both living.

At the end of the first year, we planned to take a trip to California to be gone a month. General Conference was to meet in Los Angeles and rates were low.

While we were gone the good people painted the house and made other improvements.

Los Angeles was then quite a city and flourished on the tourists.

We had most a splendid time going into Yosemite. We were there 4 days and moved among glorious wonders, Titanic wonders. It was after all just one of Gods little wonders. Yet to mortals magnificent fitting tribute to the Almighty.

The falls were in their splendor. That plunge of 1600 feet was astonishing and the lace work might have been woven by Angel fingers. Then that stream hidden among huge rocks burst again into view and then had a plunge of 400 feet.

The Bridal was just in time for marriage of Giants.

Coming out of the gorge, we passed among the giant sequoias, trees born before the pyramids and have witnessed the whole history of the human race.

The girth of one tree, 33 feet, the first limb 90 feet away and its diameter 5 feet. Trunks that towering to the ski, 300 feet.

How could God keep them growing 5000 years and still are growing.

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It would be a crime against God to fell those trees. Yet greedy men would have turned them into lumber, had not the U.S. made a park that generations of mankind might come and witness the mighty handwork of God, and sit and listen to the story of the human race, thro all its mighty struggles and glorious and infamous deeds of mankind, from the forest man till the age of science and Christ.

We spent a day or 2 in San Francisco. Were in Salt Lake a day, visiting that immense Auditorium, and listening to the famous organ. For long years the first organ beyond Mississippi and made of the woods of Utah and by the ???? own workmen. St Louis was having its world exhibition. We were there 4 days, leaving sooner than planned as I was suffering with rheumatism. It was good to be home and on the job.

There were 5 men that went by the name BROTHERS. They had made a pledge that if the Lord would prosper them in some oil scheme, they would give him 1/10 of the income.

They were prosperous and the money flowed their way. After a time Cupidity got the better of them and they began to begrudge the Lord his portion. They launched out and bought land in Indiana and were going to be millionaires.

It was at this crisis they roped me in. I was foolish enough to take insurance then due, and 500 more and invest.

MR. MARCY in the bank had some stock in oil that was paying big dividends. He was gracious enough to let me have 500 in stock. I was flattered with the idea. I was going to make some provisions for my heirs in case of my death.

Mr Marcy got the 500, and soon he made some improvements on his house.

I got one dividend , and my 500 had gone to improve the Bankers house.

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Now for the 5 Brothers. They went to smash and my thousand dollars returned never more. One B is a paralytic, helpless, to be fed like a baby. One H hastened to secure what he properly could, but not his honesty, another went to the west and I believe made money in the movies, another died long ago, worthless.

They kept not Faith with God.

The winters were cold, and the snow often deep. In mid winter I went to Guys Mills to deliver a Temperance lecture. The day was bitter cold and the storm raged. A little handfull gathered and I delivered my message.

The next night we were to go 5 miles and another was to be made. One of the fiercest storms I was ever in assailed us. When we reached our destination the church was dark.

We took refuge in a house close by, and warmed ourselves, and battled ourselves thro 5 miles of whirling snow. Glad to find refuge in a snug parsonage.

That storm laid the foundation for a very severe attack of rheumatism.

On Sat'y, wife and I were invited to dinner (supper). I managed to get there by wearing a rubber on my swollen foot.

On Sunday I was in torture. I ate no breakfast. By putting my hand on my wifes shoulder, I managed to get to my pulpit. I had announced for my evening service an address on Geo Washington, as it was the Anniversary.

I kept my promise. I was just finishing when overcome by pain. My brain whirling, I sat down. The friends saw I was overcome and some of the men bore me on their shoulders and DR. WASSON administered some remedy.

It was the beginning of six weeks of suffering, no end of agonies.

Every Sunday I had a student from Meadville to do the preaching. Every time

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I gave him $5.00 and his transportation expenses. The church never gave one cent to help along. Tho some kind brother said the church had borne the expense.

One night when I was in grinding pain, perhaps partially asleep, a voice sounded in my ear. Be not dismayed, I will raise you up. I knew I was going to recover.

One day I was in the parlor nursing my swollen foot. A ring at the door and a tall broad shouldered man stepped into my presence. Are you the man that use to take the boys boat riding in Dunkirk? I am the man. Well, I am one of the boys and told of a ride we took up to Van Buren and the boys were sick coming back.

Many times I have heard of the fun I gave boys and girls in Dunkirk. What now are you doing? I am a reporter for some Pittsburg paper. Well, that interview was a sunny spot in my suffering.

When I had convalested we made a trip to Washington, and spent 2 weeks among the wonders of the greatest Capitol in the world. We had our quarters in our Rush home for missionaries and deaconesses. They showed us all honor, seating us at the chief table. There we met EDITH GUIGNON of Corry, one of the finest girls that ever lived, but her career as a Deaconess was short duration. She died, I believe in St. Louis.

From that home we made our daily excursions to visit the great points of interest. That great Library is like a gem from the skies. One is puzzled to think how brains can conceive such a creation.

Here too we enjoyed our trip down the Potomac, to Mt. Vernon, and saw the Great man resting quietly in the arms of his country.

We went thro the masion where he spent his last days in peace. Was one of the most beautiful spots I ever saw.

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We came thro Alexandria and visited the church where Washinton worshiped, and had the honor of sitting in his pew.

Thro Bates, our representative, we had the pleasure of seeing and shaking hands with Roosevelt, There were some dozen of us in a semicircle. As he was introduced along the line there were some clergymen.

He made some pleasant remarks about ministers. Yes I said, Mr. President the preachers are your best friends. Yes he said, I guess thats so.

I visited the house and thro Penrose, I had the honor of sitting in the gallery of the Senate where diplomats and statesmen from foreign countries are seated.

Looking down I saw Edward E. Hale gowned, and opening the proceedings with a brief prayer. Hale was tall, impressive and commanding in appearance.

We looked out from the top of the towering Geo Washinton monument.

Our visit to Smithsonian was a rich feast.

I must not forgtet going out some 4 miles to a Monastary. The only thing of any note was in an under passageway we came to Pergatory. On one side of the little room, we could see a number of little china dolls roasting in the flames.

Thats one of the ways Romas Catholics impress their followers, that that is where they all must go, only to be delivered by the intercussion of the Priest.

So poor benighted souls pour out their money to deliver their friends from devouring flames.

On the Sunday of my return, I chanced to mention shaking hands with Roosevelt and how I was impressed that he was a great mixer.

One of the 5 bro's H got up and made for the door and never returned while I was in Cambridge Springs.

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I must describe a visit I made to James.

For some years he was want to go to Wagon Gap, in western Colorado, to fish and climb the mountains. He was a great lover of the mountains and delighted in trouting.

One day his rubber boot chaffed his shin. In 24 hours he knew it was blood poison. He notifies the Chicagoans to return by some other route, and he would go to Colorado Springs and have an ambulance meet him.

He was taken to the hospital and was already delirious. After two or 3 days he notified the surgeon that on such a day he was going home. Man you can't. Yes, I have telegraphed my wife and son to meet me in Omaha. His son was a physician.

I need to go thro the weeks of his hovering between life and death.

A message came from Chase saying if I expected to see James alive, I had better come. Wife and I were at Conference at Dubois. We started immediately. When it was time for me to show up, he said to Susan, its about time he was here. Looking out of the window she said, he is here.

When I entered his room he put his long arms about my neck and drew me down to his face and kissed and said "Your God and Fathers God is good enough for me"

He lived, and many golden hours we spent together.

I took quite an active part in the Masonic Lodge. One time the Masons had a banquet with some distinguished guests.

I was invited to deliver an address. I made careful preporation, but did not read my manuscript. I rec'd many cordial plaudits.

When I left Cambridge Springs the fraternity gave me a stick pin which I greatly prize.

One night after the 3rd we tarried for a lunch. When that was over, o the smoke. When it was thick enough to cut into blocks I said, Gentleman, You are not going to make

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bacon of me. Good night, and departed in chorus of laughter.

JOHN BOLARD was a SSS a lawyer. He had a way of closing the school with remarks, and trespassed on the time for public service. I remonstrated, but it did no good.

Then I told my organist to begin playing at 11 o'clock. It secured the object. But the grudge only slumbered. With the men who had taken all my hard earnings, they figured for my removal. Calling at the parsonage, Lizzie and I sitting on the veranda, he made known the wish of that few. The fear that I might die on their hands was hinted. I gave him to understand that I would relieve them from my burial.

So at the end of my 3rd year I was located at Grace Church, Warren.

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Grace Church, Warren

1906 - 1910

Needless to describe Warren. It is one of the lovliest towns in the land, on the bank of the Alleghany. The hills surrounding, covered with forests, are a perpetual charm.

Grace is on the East side, and for long was the only one DR. SMITH, Presbyterian Minister, said to his people, let the M.E's alone to occupy the field. Now at this day the Nazarenes and Roman Catholics have churches.

Grace numbered around 400. There was a little cotirie of Holy people who yet excercised the leading power of the church, and numbered the most on the official board.

Going there I knew nothing of the condition of affairs. Had I, then I had refused to go.

Yet perhaps I was the best one to go thro the battle that was sure to come.

The first year there was harmony. In all outward appearances the church was prospering. My salary had been increased over my predecessor 100., tho small enough at that. The Benevolences were increased Two hundred and more dollars were in the treasury.

Prayer meetings were well attended, tho it was apparent the Faction tried to run them.

There were 4 men that would like to have 15 minutes apiece. One evening I informed them, one hour was long enough for prayer. service, and that JOHN WESLEY would not permit anyone to pray over 3 minutes.

As so many desire to participate. I allowed one hour and a half. The Faction had a way of holding off till it percived. I was about to close, then they were on their feet to endeavor to prolong the service.

I strove to favor them as much as possible towards the end of the year. 5 of them came to see me. If I would only preach their doctrines we could capture the town. After several minutes of their urgencies, I said, Brethens I thank you for coming, and I will study

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you for a year, and if I find you have something I have not, I promise you I will manfully seek to possess it.

Of one thing be sure, I will preach only what I believe. Will take this up later on.

My Sunday school class was a pride to me. It numbered 24. Three or four coming from 3 miles away. I made it my business to call on the families of those boys. We had a custom of holding a meeting at the parsonage every Monday evening. We devoted half an hour to business, learning how to conduct business, Presiding, making motions and other little items.

Then we had half an hour of social life. My wife would provide a little treat, apples, popcorn, bananas.

When the clock struck 9, they all vanished. What impressions were made on their young minds ia all unknown.

They were likely boys and in after years some of them were in the World war.

One little fellow wrote me several times after I had moved away.

The hills were a treat. Especially when James came. We tramped all the hills, coming home tired at night. James was always a great lover of the everlasting hills.

Then there was a family living on one of the peaks, whom I many times visited. Once my stay was into the evening, and one of the young men escortrd me down till I knew the road home.

This evening in the town I passed a group of boys from 8 to 16. They were smoking, chattering, and using not the best of languages.

It started a train of thought.

Which is the greater, the street school or the public school. Followed it up by preaching a sermon on the street school.

I entered the Temperance battle and so far as I know, was the only minister who took an active interest.

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One time I attended JUDGE LINDSEYs court and observed the method of granting licenses. The Judge seated comfortably in a reclining chair. Eyes half closed, apparently indifferent to what was transpiring. Two associate Judges with ??? indifference took note. One of these was a Methodist and afterwards regretted he had consented to grant licenses.

The next Sunday night I gave a desciption of that scene. The church was filled up and down, and I am sure the people were more than ever disgusted with the liquor business.

One year I gave the memorial address out in the open. Great was the crowd. My mention of the Little Red school house as one of the causes of raising an intelligent army such as never before or since was in an army. Made on good Catholic towering mad.

Once I was at a great Masonic Festival, and was one of the speakers. After the ladies had feasted us nobly, I thought courtesy ought to invite them to the speaking banquet. It was so ordered.

My remarks attracted attension and some of the Masons were for having it published. For some reason however, it was not done.

REV'D MAHOON held Union Revival services and there were many conversions. Mahoon was a sane Revivlist. We recieved a large class of young people as the result. I think more than any other church.

There was a family by the name of GROSS, relatives of my wife. It consisted of two sisters, Elizabeth and Sarah, and bro, John. Also a Henry who was there only part of the time. I attended the funeral of John. They were the most delightful people and their house was a second home for us. All of them have since joined the celestials.

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One year I preached the Thanksgiving sermon in the Lutheran church. Indeed their Minister was quite my friend.

In my second year, I was chosen county President of the Sunday School Union.

I was ably assisted by a staff of workers from the various churches.

I guess it was the only year in which a systematic course of institutes was held thro out the county. We certainly did have some most succesful institutes.

During the course of the year I became throughly convinced that the future of the church must be in the Sunday school.

Revivals are spasms, when natural outgrowths, they are a glory. When manufactured they weaken the church, and the fruit is not as good and healthy.

Speaking of Billy Sunday in all praise. The fruit of his Los Angeles campaign was no help to por Pasadena churches.

CHAPMAN was a polished man. I attended some of his meetings in the 1st M E, Erie. It was systematic and intended to reach the last man. But I am sure the Methodist church rec'd no additional favor.

In one sermon I heard him saying, God watches over our ashes, till the Resurrection.

At a preachers meeting I commented, I can see why a boy might watch over a birds nest with 4 eggs, but it would be a crazy boy who would watch over a last years nest. Just as rediculous to think of God watching over an empty grave. We closed the year with a big

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convention in the Presbyterian church. At that time I was elected for a second term, but the Bishop sent me to Cattarangus.

The Holy people tried to spring a trap on me. After making promises that would invite Mr Williams to preach at Thanksgiving by the consent of the officials.

The Saturday preceding I said to my wife, They are going to have Revival services. She said never mind. We are not going to stay here forever.

Sunday evening I announced that it would be a pleasure to the friends of Mr. Williams that he would preach Wednesday evening, but I said, there will be no Revival services.

Monday and Tuesday the papers made it clear that Revival services were intended. I woke Tuesday night about 3 o'clock and clearly before my mind was a sentence in the Discipline, "No preacher shall employ an Evangelist without the permission of the Bishop and Presiding Elder"

When my wife woke in the morning I read the Discipine and asked what o't I to do? Her reply was, If you are not a coward, you will stand by the Discipline.

Thats as I see it, I replied.

Wednesday evening I was almost distracted by many callers. CONAWAY was among the callers. He stood by me in all these dark days. I told him my plan. He heartily approved. I consulted no one. I proposed to take all the responsibility, my wife the only one in my support.

I entered the church 2 minutes before the hour. My organist said there was a housefull. There were 4 on the platform, CREEL, FERRY, leader of singing and Williams.

I stepped to the platform and said, "It is usual for strangers to await the Pastor to do the introducing". They could but hear it, not the congregation. I was introduced to Williams by the young man. I sat by the side of Williams.

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leaning over I said, you came here to conduct Evangelistic services? Yes, thats just why I came.

I stepped up to the young man, touching shoulder and said I have something to say. He turned with a look as much to say, who are you any how? I moved to the pulpit. There are times when we have unplesent duties to preform. My church puts that obligation on me at this time. We have rules for all such gatherings.

Took my Discipine out of my pocket and read the paragraph. Now Mr. Williams not being a Methodist is excusable from not knowing our rules. You that are holy certainly will not want to break the rule, and those of you are not will only respect the sanctity of this house.

I have been charged with not preaching Holiness. Next Sabboth this will be my text. Holiness becometh thy house forever.

"The congregation will please rise and be dismissed". Silence could be felt. The people looked at one another wondering if they had heard aright.

Again I said "The congregation will please rise and be dismissed". They rose and recieved the blessing.

There was scattereing and consternation. "Get another place, get another place". They from the platform went to a Catholic house and called for the opera house. Williams had once said he would never go there for he could see the Devils on the rafters. Opera house could not be secured. Then they tried the Y.M.C.A. hall and he had said the same thing about the Y.M.C.A.

Then they marched to the Salvation Army room, and took possession, not as much as saying "by your leave"

I had sat in my chair all this time not knowing that I had a friend, but there was a large number that did not take flight. When the confusion was over one by one they gathered about the church and I found a good following.

One GARDNER had said to the people, "We have the Deacon now,

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just where we wanted" They had sprung the trap and were themselves caught.

The next Sunday the church was crammed. I may not produce my sermon. I will refer to a portion. These holy people had threatened to freeze me out, to starve me out.

Stepping to the front I said, I presume I am as poor a man as there is in this house, but when you speak of starving, you have struck the wrong man.

When they saw their own shame exposed, they paid up their quarterage before withdrawing from the church.

Quiet reigned, but secretly the plotting was carried on. I pass by some of the schemes and come to the 4th Quarter Conference, the culmination of the whole matter. They tho't to oust me and get the church in their hands and a minister to their liking. They failed for the board invited me to return.

In 2 weeks 10 families numbering in all, 35, sent in their withdrawls.

There was peace in our borders and a better class of people began coming and now the 400 or thereabout has grown into 1000 and over, and worshiping in one of the finest churches in the Conference.

Out among the people, as my rule, I found all the homes and aside from the above mentioned, I had no end of friends.

One family, not members, was very dear to me. They had a bright little boy, the idol of their hearts, who sickened and died.

When he came for me, he said, "when we are in trouble we come to you". A ???point was opened. Slowly it worked. Like the ??? it found them at length members of the 1st M.E. Church.

One of my members was always an invalid and never was in church. She was one of the most cheerful persons I ever met. Always hopeful, never murmering or complaining. She had a daughter who was with her most of the time. She married a Catholic and united with that church. They live near Erie.

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The daughter resides in Bradford. I have corrisponded with both to this day (Jan 14, 1925)

Across the road from us lived the KENDALLS who were ardent friends. She came to Cattarangus when I preached my Semi Centenial. James too was there. Our communications have never been closed. Recently James closed his costly career and she promised to come to Pasadena next winter.

To enumerate all the homes that were mine would be impossible, suffice to say, Some of the dearest souls I have ever known belong to Grace church.

When Conference time came, held at Jamestown NY. One of the holy people went up and intervieaed the Bishop, and stuffed his ears with dire complaints.

My Presiding Elder instead of boldly saing "Bishop that man saved our church and you must send him back", dropped me.

The Bishop Hamilton said, When theres a difficulty, in move the pastor Ignoring the condition of affairs.

Now to my successor he said, what would you like Corry or Warren Grace? He was a stranger. I had been in the Conference 45 years and my record was clean. He never said to me, what would you like, but sent me as if I were a boy.

I never had any cause to regret my new place, but the injustice of the treatment was amply outrageous.

When I came home from Conference, the parsonage was filled with indigent people and only needed a word and they would have refused to recieve the new man. No,I said, We must not have any strife. I will go and leave all our interests in the Lords hands.

I must write of one MRS. GREENLUND. While she was not an educated or trained woman, she was one of the most useful in the church. For a long period she was a visitor at the jail, and had a very wholesome influence on the prisoners.

She made more sacrifices for the church and the Savior that any one in the church.

Her husband was disabled in one arm, and his earning power was greatly limited. She bore

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the burden, and went about selling household affairs. They had a daughter, Ruth, a most beautiful girl, and in the fullness of early womanhood. She was taken with typhoid fever.

The church was called together in prayers. They were much wrought upon, and the minister felt he had an answer. Came to the house and said, "Don't worry Ruth is going to get well". Alas, Ruth went to the Angels. The parents were distressed. What now of Prayer. I went back East 2 years after coming to Pasadena. I found the parents in gloom. At dinner we talked the matter over and it took 2 hours and more before I could let them see the mistake the Pastor made.

Growing more disabled to do her work, she still went about as the agent.

How she ever managed to pay $100. to the Centenary, I can't understand. She lived to once or twice worship in the New Church, then the Lord called her to his own, and join the loved ones in the skies.

BERTH MASON was the most efficient primary teacher I ever saw. Her influence over little tots was magic. Now lives in Douglas NY, married.

Her mother was a Baptist, but on account of poor health was unable to walk more than a mile to her church. For some reason she was dropped from the roll. Never mind I said, You are now a member of my church, pastor and one member. For many years till her death I sent about quarterly my pastoral letter.

I record here with pleasure. H.M. CONAWAY was pastor in 1st church and a finer man, I have not known. He and his church stood by me in the trying time at Grace. He seemed to rejoice in the work of his neighbor. Sometimes I called on his sick living in my bounds and in one case I attended the funeral of one of his flock. No jealosy marked his life. He was only glad that I had officiated.

We kept up correspondance as long as he lived. His going (Fredonia) was an irresearable loss to the church and humanity.

Now I turn my face to Cattarangus, my new and last field of work.

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Cattarangus

1910 - 1913

Cattarangus the beautiful, both town and the surrounding scenery.

The views from hill tops were magistic and lovely. There is nothing in Southern California any more charming or beautiful. Many time I have seen the trees about the Parsonage sheathed in ice and sparkling in the sunlight. More brilliant than all the diamonds on earth.

Sea waves do not unrival the gorgeousness.

The town itself had all the aura of quietude and prosperity.

Fow 50 years the youth has grown up without a bar to tempt. While there were a few suckers, they had to go out of town or else smuggle it in.

So far as I know there is no town in that section that has a finer class of people, nor a more prosperous.

The sellers are doing a milloin dollar business, and the Oakes tin establishment are some where in the hundred thousand.

The Parsonage lot is big. Fine door yard in front, my jungle for birds, back of the house and my big basin in the rear, where I raise a garden that was a garden. Corn and beans and potatoes so that the neighbors found many a toothsome repast. A little creek, sometimes noisy and sometime rippling lazily along, by the side of the yard. On its bank I raised no end of nasturtiums. Then one year I put no end of Willow ??? into the mud along the creek so as to prevent the stream on a rampage from wearing the bank away.

Otto was 3 miles distant. East Otto 8 or 9 and North Otto 8 or 9.

For many years in fact I never owned a horse, but 4 years, I had no use for one. None the less, I did more riding and tramping than I had done for a long time.

During my 5 years I attended nearly all the funerals for 5.6 miles away and often 9 and 10. Thro storms of all kinds, mud, hubs, deep snow. I answered all calls.

At east Otto I attended the funeral of REV ROBINSON, Methodist Minister. The church

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was filled. He was member of the Genesse Conference. The widow and son were present. The remains were taken to some other place and the Minister of his own Conference held funeral rites. My text was Acts 20. 38, "No more see his face".

On several occasions I preached at east Otto.

Once there was a great womans Temperance meeting. I was invited to go. The women from Cattarangus procured a hayrack and it was a jolly ride. The meeting was full of enthusiasm and a good impression on the audience.

Going home we started in good glee. We had gone but a short distance when my neighbor came along with his auto and invited me to ride. Thoughtlessly I said, all right I foresook the women. All went well till we were about 2 miles from home, when the gas failed. Great, our dilema, every house was minus a phone. We trudged our 2 miles, and I was only too anxious to escape the coming woman. Lucky, but they found it out, and I did not hear the last of it for many a day.

My apology was, I'll never desert the women again.

We had numerous Temperance gatherings in our church at Catterangus, and the women knew I could always be relied on to do my part. It was no dead cause. No forced work perpetual fires were burning.

And I was never charged with luke warmness. In all questions for the public go on. The people knew where I stood.

Speaking of funerals. HIRAM RICH was my good man Friday. His horse, Jack, took me to all the funerals. Most of the time Hiram went with me. I must have attended 150 funerals in my 5 years. Weddings were scare as hens teeth. Fortune favored me in 2 good neighbors. They had fur coats and there was always one at my service. There were times when I would have frozen but for these coats.

One time at North Otto the thermometer was all day long 15 below zero.

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Cattarangus

One time just rising from long sickness. Hiram took me to Groh's to see a young man, sick. I could hardly walk to the door. Sunday we buried him from the church. The friends feared I would not be able for the service, but I did not fail.

For 5 years I preached all the baccalaureate sermons, and all the memorial sermons.

it was custom to hold the Memorial services on Sunday because the people had become so lax, that the day seemed more of a travisty than Remembrance.

On Sunday the church was taxed to its capacity, and the services at the Cemetery impressive.

The last year there was no announcement and I was puzzled. On inquiry I found the 8 or 10 old Soldiers had surrendered their charter. My friend said he was tired of paying all the expences, and that ended the organization.

But I set to work, announced thro the press the day would be fittingly abserved. It was, and I appointed an evening service.

In the evening I explained the situations and said I would not be satisfied unless the friends gave a guarantee that the day would be properly observed in the future. The people were around and lawyer Bird, son of a vet, promised the observance. After the World war there was no trouble in waking the needed spirit.

That had proven one of the blessings of that awful war. Every family that had a son in the army needed no spur to keep sacred memories.

One of the other ministers was piqued because I preached the baccalaureate sermon.

JOS. A. SETTER on the board said it was the privilege of the class to chose the speaker and I was the choice.

I now record 2 strange incidents in my life, strange however accounted for.

In my 3rd winter I was desperately sick, Rheumatism has been my foe for many years.

The family and the Dr had little hope

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of my life. Lizzie was lying on a couch at the foot of my bed.

About 3 O'clock say, I wakened or tho't so. Looking, I observed a tall form gliding into my room. I saw no face, no hands. I can see the folds of the dress, the lines of grey and darker shadows. I knew it was death. She sat on the edge of my bed. For a moment a chill went up my back. She said, I have come for you, will you go? No, I said, I have so many things to look after, Family, Church labor, Temperance, I can't go. I will come for you 3 times. She passed away, and came as before making the same inquiry, recieving the same reply. Again it was repeated, then she disappeared.

Immediately I heard a voice at the foot of the bed. I looked and saw nothing. I knew it was life speaking. How, I cannot tell. Life asked, why do you wish to live? I gave the same reply. I had spoken to death. You will live, but it will be with tribulation and much sorrow.

Since that day I certainly have had no end of tribulation in the suffering Rhuematism has had it on for me thro repeated attacks. Pauls strips were nothing in comparison. All Rhumatics will bear testimony.

In six months I passed thro the inexpressible sorrow that a man knows and feels. When the noblest companion God ever gave to a man bid us farewell and joined the loved and hosts of Heaven.

My wife was a remarkable woman. Gifted as few women are. She was 9 years Conference President of the W H M Society. It is safe to say no President in the following years have surpassed her annual address in grip grace and beauty.

She was one of the most gifted in prayer I ever heard.

Always cherry. She was life where ever she went. Melancholy fled her coming. Her home spelled Hospitality.

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Cattarangus

1910 - 1913

All the funeral sevices Rev Conaway made the address. Randolph also spoke eloquent words. My Presiding Elder took charge of the service, J.R. Rankin.

The full church gave silent testimony to the extreeme in which she was held. The remians were taken to Forestville and placed in the JOHNSON plot under the wide spreading branches of some noble trees. Chase and Fred and Robin were present. Mrs. Kendall came from Warren.

This was on Friday. The Sunday before was her last on Earth. Her last were spoken 3 days before. She was in a comatose condition for several days. She said, I prefer the other side to this, but its so sad to leave you.

Sunday afternoon Blossom, Gertrude and I were standing about the bed. As I said she had not spoken for some days. Apparently she was unable to move her lower extremities. All at once she turned over suddenly, and with a look, intent, eyes looking as if seeing someone dear to her, she exclaimed Lewy, Lewy.

I was puzzled. Turning to Blossom, I said who is Lewy. A brother who died 30 years ago. That she saw him, I cannot doubt.

So, the much sorrow I tasted. I can think she makes Heaven where ever she goes.

The Sunday following the internment was memorial day. I was to preach and I had no one to take my place. There was but one thing I could do, and that was go ahead.

The second strange incident occured two winters after. I was down again with a terrible siege of Rhumatism. I did not myself dispair of my life, but the Dr and the girls and many friends did. Chase came down to see me, to my great joy. He lanced my feet and the little finger on my right hand. While I was in the worst features of the case came this experience.

Gertrude slept at the foot of the bed.

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Suddenly I woke or seemed awake, when I heard the thud, thud of a heavy triad. All was still in the house.

I listened, All still thro the house. Gertrude slept on the lounge at the foot of the bed. Blossom was in her room asleep. Yet the thud continued. It seemed to be coming up stairs. I was in a square room. At the corner to the right was a jog about 3 feet and opened into a long hall, then turned and went downstairs. The sounds grew nearer. When it reached a point, I looked thro the wall. There I saw a sturdy workman, cap on his head, muffler about his neck, girdle about his middle, stockings up to his knees. His right arm embraced a coffin and every time he stepped the coffin struck the floor. He drew nearer to my door. At this point a dark object rose in that little jog, and I knew it was Christ. How I knew, I cannot tell. I never heard him described as a dark object. I am only saying how he appeared.

As the workman reached the door, Christ opened it, and said "Take it away, Take it away. I have not heard his cry for life and abundance of life. Take it away", and all vanished, and I knew I was going to live.

Of these 2 manifestations I have spoken to Drs, lawyers, and Ministers. All are puzzled. One said you were sick and it was a hallucination. That don't solve it. My reply has alwyas been, It was Gods way of telling me my work was not done and there rests.

One winter I had Rob't Jones, Evangelist. I realized that while I was able to do my Sabboth and Prayer meeting efforts, I was not strong enough for a series of meetings.

It seems I had at some time encouraged him to go forward with his Evangelism work and his gratitude was undying. His was a strange history. As a boy he was wild, grew up in ignorance. At 18 could not read or write.

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By some influence he was bro't under the Gospel and soundly converted. At once he began to preach, and was at once successful. He began studying, reading and gathering information. He became one of the happiest speakers and had a magic influence over a congregation. MR. BURCH was his singer, and understood how to train a chorus.

A platform was erected over the pulpit, and some 40 or more young people were enlisted in the work. Never was there better singing in that church.

Soon the church was not large enough for the congegation. Robert was full of humor and Pathos and his sermons were full of meat and good sense.

The work was mostly among young people. The ingathering was great and I witnessed some most beautiful sights.

So far as I know most of the young people have been true to their vows.

Robert and Burch boarded with us. That is they lived with us. We recieved no pay and enjoyed their fellowship.

Now looking back, it distresses me to think how many of my old friens have gone up the shining way, and it makes me lonesome to think they are no more on Earth.

Mr. OAKES and wife were the first to give a reception to our family. What a lovely couple, Friendship never broken. How often he came to see me in my sickness and now both are gone. He was always public spirited and his years were given to civic improvements.

I venture on a few names, CHAS RICH, Herman, Elliott, Latten, Mowry(living), Nash, Wilson(who was an infidel), Mrs Perry, Sigman oh, so many others.

Col Nash was one of the noblest men in the community. He gave unlimited service to old Soldiers, and little pay. The first time I saw him was in the church at Cottage on Sunday following Lincolns Assasination.

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I never saw him till I came to Cattarangus. At his funeral I had no end of the lawyers in my section. The church was crowded, for he was a man held in high esteem.

Shortly after his wife gave me his gold headed cane, that was the gift of his son when 18, Shortly before he was drowned in Buffalo Harbor.

Mrs. Nash was a christian Scientist for 9 years, and a few weeks before death renounced it, and went back to her Christian faith.

She so informed me, and requested me to sing and pray with her.

The servant maid told her she would remain a short time with her.

Mrs Nash had no relatives nearer that Des Moines, and was a serious problem, how she could live without help. It gave me great anxiety and thought.

But the good father came to our relief and sent his chariot to bring her home.

Mrs Larson, the healer, called on me to see if I would speak, provided the reader came from Salamanca and made an address. Perfectly willing, but I want it understood if he says anything about Mrs. Nash being a Scientist I should take the liberty to say she was not a Scientist.

That you will know Mrs. Larson, Mrs. Nashes friends desired me to refuse the reader to take any part in the services, and instructed me to refuse him any part.

Fortunately Mrs Larson did not see best to bring her reader.

Nor did I make any reference to Mrs. Nashes views.

Thus, husband and wife rest side by side in the Little Valley Cemetery.

During my last winter, my brother John died, 79, near Berea. It was bitter cold during my stay at his home. Newton delayed the funeral, hoping James would come from Chicage. One day

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I said Newton, the son, I am going home on Saturday, so if I am to attend the funeral, it must be Friday.

So arrangements were made to hold services in the coongregationl church in Berea, as they were all members of that church.

I made the prayer and spoke 15 minutes, and the pastor gave a short address. Then I officiated at the grave.

John was a faithful soldier and a good citizen. No one could ever speak ought against him. J.B. and James and John have all passed over the river 72,78,79.

HATTIE JEWEL was the most original character in our church. Her husband was counted as infidel. He certainly had no use for church. None the less, he was a man of fine abilities. He was for many years a Sea Captain, and in the East India service.

He spoke fluently the Indian tongue. It was a delight to hear him tell his experiences in India. They were poor and the wife managed in various ways to earn with her needle, her quarteage. She was always full of fun and ventured her advice, as to how I must take care of myself.

Both of them passed away not long after we came to California.

She is certainly numbered among Gods jewels.

At Otto were two dead churches, Congregational and Methodist.

Whiskey killed them. At the time the excise law was in existance. There were 3 excise men elected, one of those a Methodist. Someone said that M.E. man will never grant licenses. But we don't know and we don't know ourselves.

That Methodist did grant licenses. It was opening the flood gate, and so the community drank, and drank, and both churches were driven to the wall. No services in either.

One summer I walked over and

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preached to quite an audience of Congregational and Methodists in the M.E. church. Twas too much of a burden, and I gave it up.

After a while they asked what had better be done.

Try the Congregational board and see if they will undertake it.

That failed. Then try the Presbyterians. That also failed. It was not a flattering cause. Nor did I wish to appear anxious to have our people commit themselves to the undertaking.

However, the result was the two societies united as M.E. and took possession of the congregationalists church as that was in the best condition. I believe it so continues to this day, 1925.

James visited me every year and once Sue came. All the hills about echoed to the tread of the two brothers. One summer Cattarangus creek was so dry, a company of us followed the creek down to 40. What a time we had rambling that water course. In places it took some skirmishing and climbing to avoid what little stream was left.

Down at 40 was a great picnic place and many a jolly time we all had.

James came down to my 50th Anniversary as a preacher.

Mrs. Kendall came over from Warren for the occasion.

My prayer that last year was that the Lord would make my last year in the ministry my best.

He answered my prayer. My brain never worked better, my preaching was never more poweful, and I trust useful,

I prepare two effots for the Annivesary. In the first I gave experiences of my Ministry in the places I had served.

In the second, I narrated the progress

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in the church in 50 years.

At a preachers meeting held in the P.E. Burns requested me to give an account of my 50 years.

I entertained the boys and had a good time. Among other things I said, ?oms White my son, had done very well, but would have added more honors if he had heeded my advice and married.

When Conference time came there were 4 of us who had been ministers 50 years and we were to have an hour for our efforts.

REUBAN SMITH, MILTON SMITH, BENJAMAN DELO and R.N. STUBBS.

Reuban and I had completed our 50 years, Milton 45, Delo 35.

I prepared my paper making no reference to myself. Giving a review of the theological changes that had taken place during my 50 years.

Smith gave a review of his ministry. Delo got lost and I do not recall what Milton said.

After my severe illness it became a question as to the future. It seemed best after due deliberation, and the advice James and Dr Coss, that I should retire.

It certainly is a long service, 50 years, and very few ever give so many to any calling. I felt it would hardly bring just to my people to attempt another year.

I could in honor step out of the ranks. We made up our minds, it was a wise thing to do.

One Sunday morning I notified my people of our purpose, and as I have for 50 years, shoveled snow, waded thro snow drifts and nearly perished in blizzards. We have made up our minds to seek a warmer climate.

The people could not believe their own ears. Even after packing they refused to

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believe we were going to leave. We'll give you a year and then you'll come back to us. But when my goods were loaded on the cars, then they said "They'll never come back".

Conference came and I turned my back on one of the dearest spots and dearest people a man ever served.

At Conference I lead the Sunday morning feast and read my paper on the 50 years changes on the thinking of the church.

This paper was not read Sunday morning. For 50 years I had come in and gone out before that body of ministers. What changes had taken place, how many had joined the realms of the blessed. What experience I had had. My father before me had given 50 years, a whole century. So far as I know, the record stands without a parallel.

For my father, I may say, for his time he was one of the greatest preachers in the Erie Conference -Old man Eloquent- he was called. Having had few advantages in his youth, he built himself up in the school of the saddle, hard digging in the study to be one of the best informed of his day, and one of the most Eloquent of Preachers.

Its no small matter to think you stand for the last time with those with whom you have been associated for 50 years, they to carry on the great mission. You to stand aside, no pulpit, no church, no people to be you know not what.

This far off, I feel it more keenly than I did when I pointed my face towards the far off Pacific.

My objection was Chicago. However, I o't to say, J.B. made me a visit at New Castle, and we had one of the lovliest days of our lives.

I shall never forget how he waved a newspaper as he stepped on the car, the last time we met in this world.

Arrived at Chicago at the end of the week. We heard that J.B. had died suddenly.

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Bishop Simpson

Never passed thro Washington without calling at the White House and he never left without both men ever on their knees in prayer.

He was one of the Orators at the funeral of old Abe.

In those dark days when Abe's enemies were great even in the Cabinet, and the papers shouting Peace, Peace, Simpson was heart solace and compfort to that greatest of American Stateman.

Bishop FOSTER was a great preacher, but not inspirational. His impression on Conference was great.

Bishop FOWLER was one of the brainiest men, and great as preacher and lecturer. His lecture on Lincoln was masterly, perhaps never surpassed in this country.

Bishop KINGSLY was massive in strength and logic. Gained his celebrity in General Conference on the slavery question.

Page 176

Age of Inventions

My life has been in a magic world. So far as I can learn, its the most remarkable period of History.

Golden age is dream land. Empire building has fired one age- city building marked another period.

Rome buile great cities. Egypt Pyramids, battling for Freedom and the Magna Charta blessed England. Ages of cruelty have blackened pages. Nations have sprung into being and Empires have gone out in darkness.

After years of suffeering and sacrifice the U. S was born to Freedom, but only held the Glory by an Altar of blood making all men free.

Since my boyhood it has been an age of discoveries, Inventions and science.

Men have pried into every nook and corner of this old world, and have launched out into the Heavens.

A mania for the North Pole has raged for 50 years. Both Poles have been discovered at the expense of numberless lives. The British have captured the South Pole and every American has put his foot at the North, but forgot to plant the Stars and Stripes. Not so much as a can of oil for the axle.

Now wings are going to see what can be done to make sure a continent is inviting to a new world.

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Age of Discovries and Inventions

Perhaps after all is the discovery of all the strange people that inhabit Mother Earth. We surely have found that we whites are a small minority, yet change to say practically rule mankind.

Maybe our iron grip is loosening. It should be so as the countless millions get the sense of Freedom. The possibly all nations or people will rule themselves and all be ruled by the Freedom of Christ.

Astronomy is revealing the greatness of the Universe, and that o't to enable our ideas of God.

Our conception of God is about as little as our grain of sand compared with the Universe.

It is good to have a human God and a Universe God.

Why should we stagger at the incarnation in Christ? Every life, animal or vegetable is only God expression or revelation. All life must be of God. The grecians had all manner of nymphs and Gods of this and that. Now one God, the life of life and speaking in the stars and the infinate varieties of earth life.

Man is God thought, may be his greatest thought.

This is a diversion and I turn now to Inventions. What is an invention?

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An invention is but the discovery of a divine law and caught in some machine and set to human use.

Great as is the microscope or the telescope we can hardly bring them in my life time. Yet the spirit of the age has put them to uses such as were never dreamed a hundred years ago.

Today the microscope gives us the infinate minute world and the mighty power the microbe is willing in the physical world. What a world of beauty in a drop of water!!

That microbe may, on its wing's bear the scourge of plague and disolation or it may be one of the factors necessary to the building of the human body.

Beyond the piercing of the lites cope, there lies only imagination can fancy how more universe yet awaits mans flight.

When I was a boy say 8 years old, living in Erie, I saw a dray on which was a coil of wire,

They were erecting a telegraph wire. Boy curiosity was aroused and it was fed by the strange reports given us. "Why they can send letters and boxes over those wires". Now the wire speaks of March of Civilization. When man is there is a wire. Like an all seeing eye it followed him.

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A few years after, while we were living in Painesville, Ohio, the whole nation was thrilled by a meeeage from Queen Victoria, coming under the ocean.

Woman spoke, and strange to say became silent. None the less that voice but fired the world. Yet that has proven too slow.

When one time in Chicago I spoke into a telephone and was answered by the voice of my son. Talk about magic and spirits. Yet why is it we ascribe all marvelous things to the devil or magic.

The telephone is but the ear. The law of hearing is caught in the phone.

But more marvelous than ever comes the radio. Now all the world is at your feet. Jesus said there is nothing hidden, but shall be revealed or made known. Your thoughts are caught on the wing. If we gathered all that flies in that strange ocean Electricity. All the joys, all the sorrows, all the gossip, all the business, all the hopes, all the fears, all the greed, ambitious, militarism , pacivism, bolshevism, would be couraing thro our brains. This we call the miracle of the age. Yet its only the repetition of the ear. Given the ear-air-vibrating and the words strikes the ear. Given the

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ear, an ocean of electricity that vibrates at the most delicate touch, and all the thinking world becomes yours.

Music to inspire or distract. Jazz to set you wild, dogs to tell of heroism, Scientists to tell how great man is, baseball, bullfights, men fights, crimes that leave crimson stains on humanity, business, bonds, mortgages, oil, gas, boats, Presidents, Senators, and no end of public officials crowding in on you to capture or startle, law, Gospel all comfort you. Happy if you are not crazed. Next thing, someone will send a wire among the Heavenly Host and all Heaven will be ringing in our ears.

Moreover, the movie world is one of the wonders. What great possibilities of good and bad genious.

Nothing is more compelling than a bad picture. Nothing more inspiring than a noble picture. The movie is doing more to impress the young with salaciousness than anything else and that the best people are awaking to the horrors. It may confidently be hoped that a great world of virtue will come to inspire the future.

Movie stars and notables have besmirched marriage with their no end of orgees and divorces.

Page 181

The Roosevelt Dam

It was my great pleasure to visit the SETTERS in Phoenix and spend two weeks with them.

These were Cattarangus friends. They had a daughter, Bernice, who showed symptoms of TB. This took them to various places to if possible escape this white mans plague. She was a rare maiden, lovely charecter. At this time had reached 21. Living among deserts and gazing at mountains for 5 years. It was astonishing to me how greatly her mind had developed, and her nobility had kept pace with years. While there in the home so close to huge rocks and 10 miles to the city. I was impressed that she was nearing Heaven. But the dr said he had never had a patient that had made such improvements as she of late.

So we were all decieved. Not long after my return she joined the celestials.

While there Joseph and Corydon took me to see the Roosevelt Dam.

It was a ride of 50 miles over rugged mountains and the last few along the edge of the river.

Over these 50 miles all the tools and material for the huge structure was trucked with horses.

Majestic sight, giant columns, yawning caverns and crags and peaks. Tell might well shout, Ye crags and peaks, I'm with you.

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Roosevelt Dam -Cliff dwellers

Lost among such desolation how would a man ever find Civilization. To find the river would be the only escape.

When noon overtook us, we camped by the roadside and with zest partook of what loving hands had stored in the basket.

For several miles we skirted the sparkling waters, as they flowed along. One would not think that a few miles away these waters had been imprisoned and only allowed to escape as man willed and now they were on their way to make fertile thousands upon thousands of acres of worthless lands which were now making rich Arizona.

At last the massive walls of Roosevelt towered before us, like some fortress.

When one thinks of the pressure of imprisoned waters, nothing short of massiveness would ever controll and imprison.

That dam from wall to wall is about 1000 feet, 600 and over in front of the rivers. The track or road from bank to bank is broad enough for 3 or 4 cars abreast. This dam pens in two streams or rivers. Salt is one the other I do not recall. The waters are driven back for 30 miles and before you is a lake in appearance.

Great gates controll the discharge of the waters, so that no rush or flood can sweep down, devastating and destroying.

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It is this system of water controll that redeems the desert lands of Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and California.

Where cactus and desert shubbery and birds, toads and a few coyotes and wolves found a miserable existance. Now are orange groves, lemons, grapefruit, immense vineyards, walnuts, dates, finest in the worls, cotton choisest in markeys, alfalfa, cantalope by the thousands of car loads first to reach the eastern markets, Turkeys, ducks, geese and pigs.

Nor must it be overlooked, Los Angeles. Now over one million brings its water supply over 200 miles over mountains and thro mountains.

These desert lands lift their hands to the mountains whence cometh their help.

Cut off the water supply from Southern California one week and the population would parrish before it could find transportation out of the country.

We remain over night at a little settlement on the west side of the bridge.

Next day we drove six miles up stream to see a cliff dwelling.

To me it was a rare treat. While I had read about cliff dwellers, I never expected to see those strange places.

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Roosevelt Dam- Cliff Dwellers

We went the main road, drove in about a mile, left the car and followed a path or trail till we came in sight of the dwelling. It was a steep climb up. We went thro what might be called a cellar, where these strange people lived. Overhead were long poles, overlaid with some kind of cement flooring. This cellar or underground was well nigh filled with debris. Thro some hole we climbed to the rooms above.

In one corner was a fireplace against the rock. The smoke must have curled around and made its escape. Eyes must have suffered. Maybe they were use to it. There were no utencils of any kind. Doubters they had long since disappeared, for now there is a stringent law against any defacing or removing anything.

The room or two as it would seem stretched for 40 or 50 feet. These rooms did not penetrate into the rocks many feet.

Down from the cliff was a steep descent of 150 feet to a dry watercourse that lived while snow was melting or rain falling. It was all of a mile down to the river from whence they must have carried their water for household purposes. Thither too they must have gone to catch their fish.

A long distance they must have gone to garden it.

Why people were obliged to seek such abodes is hard to tell. Safety has always been assigned as the reason to escape their enemies.

In this case their enemies could easily have destroted all their fields and staved them.

This dwelling is only a pigmy compared with great dwellings found in other places.

The solution of all the problems has not yet been found.

The curoius history remains in secret.

Satisfied we took the back track, and at eventide we arrived at the Setter home close by huge rocks.

My two weeks were a rich treat. Soon Bernice found her home among the mountains of God and now Joseph has joined her, where they go no more out forever.

Page 185

Punishment

Why Punish? To punish is to inflict pain because of some wrong, some transgression or sin.

To sin is to injure, 1st the person himself, 2nd the injured, 3rd the State, 4th God.

The sinner in the end is the greatest sufferer. He is pulling down his own house. Great is the fall there of, a house in ruins is a pitiful sight.

It mars the face of the Earth. It is like a pock mark on the face. A city in ruins is a most terrible sight. All the glory that once was has vanished.

All the genius, all the skill, inventive power, music, art, science all are in worse ruin than the tumbled down walls, dilapidated houses and horrid skeletons, shocking the spectator.

A man in ruins spectale for men, angels and God.

Think what it means! Honor gone, conscience blasted, devils of lust, hate, jealousy, greed, false ambition, hypocrisy, have preyed upon the soul, leaving only blackness ruins.

Think you Egypt will ever again flame with genuis and prosperity?

Tho a man may live in a mansion his soul may be in ruins.

Many a man to protect himself,

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his family camouflages himself and wears the form of respectability and goodness, but in his heart he knows he's rotten. Often the crash comes and family and all are swept into ruins.

Said a man to me, you would be surprised to know how many families living in the fine houses on Euclid Ave have moved out and gone into Obscruity,

Too fast, too extravagant, habits of passion, dishonesty, wrought the downfall.

little did he think he would be driven from his own lovely home by the crimes of his gifted wife, and with a lovely daughter, he took refuge in Florida.

Even if he may be so fortunate as to escape the eye of man, in ruins he must appear before the bar of God.

He needs no pronounced sentence. He slinks away to his own dark place.

It will be seen in all this, God does not cause or will his bankruptcy of character. He has wrought his own ruin. Hell is mans own creation.

When an architect erects some great structure he provides the sure foundation. Builds safe, secure walls on those with a roof that will not crush the firm walls.

The Architect is not responsible for the disaster. The owner works his own ruins

God does not give 10

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Commandments to please himself. He is only making known the foundation and walls of soul and state.

Doubtless man might have discovered these truths, after endless experiments, but to prevent ages of disasters. He made known these constitutional laws.

God wills not death, but life. Death pains God. No man joys in the ruin of his son. Much less can God find pleasure in the overthrow of man.

Pain is Gods warning that something is wrong. Tooth ache notifies one that something has gone wrong with that tooth.

It may not be too late to save it. So all pain is admonitory, telling some law of the body has been broken. Of't repeated one may wake up too late and death may result.

God does not send Rheumatism, fevers, diptheria, scarlet fever, They are revelations of our ignorance or disclosures of our breaking matures law.

More times death is the consequence of our own law breaking. I do not say that God does not himself intervine, but I think it is rare. God carries on his great plans in Heaven and Earth, and he may need someone to do special work in the other world and so call someone befitted for that work.

Let us now take another step. A crime or misdeed strikes others than oneself. Then comes in what is called government. How to deal with such

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criminals is most perplexing. It is easily seen that hitherts and even now punishment has been revenge, hate and cruelty. The merciful side is slowly creeping into our Justice. We are exercising the Spirit of Reformation. The desire to save a man and not to kill him.

As yet not many come from prisons, better morally regenerated. More are worse and resort to old habits of vice and crime. In them is seated a hole of society and government and they live by preying on Humanity, not praying for mankind.

Take the father who is dealing with his son who has committed some misdemeanor. Why does he punish? Sometimes he's mad and beats and pounds only to find the boy worse, maybe outwardly deceiving, sly, cunning. The parent has driven the boy away, lost him, and the son may be on his way to dishonor.

What should be the object of the pains inflicted? To let him see he had wronged others, and to try and hold before him a noble ideal of life.

The child must be made to face that the parent is dealing with love and wisdom. A child will not resent and resist severe discipline when he is made to know that it all means he's good, and no anger or hate are inflicting pain and rigid discipline. In fact children are often

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Punishment

robbed of what everyone in this world most needs, and for which they most long, Love.

The truth is there don't seem to be enough love in this world to go around.

The father engrossed with worldly affairs thinks he's done greatly to provide a home and clothing, food and schooling for his children. He hasn't realized that he has robbed his household of that which is infinitely of more worth than all the things he has provided.

Many a time a father has been roused by the news his boy is in jail. There because he has been robbed, and so turns thief, and is reaping the consequence.

Inflicting pain for the fun of it is devilish.

Behind all pain must be the motive, love and the revelation of a higher life.

Why do we imprison men? Part of transgression is against others, and the state.

State or society must protect itself. One cannot for an instant think the murderer, the assasin, the robber, ruiner of homes may go their way leaving it for chance to lead them into a better life. Hence, society, the state must protect itself.

That means prison

It must be admitted as yet we do not know how to deal with prisoners.

Page 190

Devil

Is there a one devil, prince of devils? I can imagine an empire of devils, and a king or prince, but devils are liars and liars could hardly submit to rules and authority. The coalition of thieves is short lived. They soon fall out and betray one another.

But an omnipotence omnisient devil is inconceivable. There can't be two omnipotent everywhere present beings.

That's one of the blunders made by Catholics and some Protestants. The one think Mary is omnipresent, and the others think the devil turns up at every corner. Mary has shoved Jesus into the discard, and many good people think the devil is the cause of all the troubles that afflict humanity.

Even Paul was sure the devil was his great hindrance, when to my mind it was his imagination.

That there are devils, one needs but look abroad, and he can but wish there were none.

If a man dies a devil, he can wake up in another world, still devil.

How long he will thus remain I have considered elsewhere.

There is no reason to suppose that wicked spirits do not in some manner, by some methods, seek to pervert us mortals

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Devil

"Birds of a feather" has a wide application. Booze drinkers seek bootleggers.

Thieves, prostitutes, criminals in some way float together. Good people naturally find each other.

The bar room does not seek the prayer room.

Very much of what we ascribe to devils, is due to our own nature. The animal within us finds temptation for our lusts, our passion, our appetites. It's easy to shove it all over onto the evil one.

Man learned in the Garden to shove his woes onto other shoulders.

A trick that has never forsaken him.

It's only an apology and like the boomerang comes with terrific force on our own patio.

How then do you account for the temptation in the wilderness?

Jesus had been 40 days in considering his mission. For the 1st time he faced his own greatness.

How shall I use my vast powers? If someone should give me a million dollars, I would face some terrible problems. Johnny Steele had a million dollars thrust upon him. He turned into a fool. He bo't out coaches, then gave them away. He burnt money, he squandered left and right to his

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Devil

millions were gone, and he went back to baggage man.

He could not rise superior to the gross nature he had always lived.

Jesus, after 40 days hungered. What more natural than to say, I have all power, make these stones bread.

Had he done as he would have sanctioned all power, to satisfy our wants. He has no right to make bread when every man has to earn his own living.

Had he broken the law, he never had known how to sympathize with the man out of a job, the man with a large family, the starving man.

Man must make his own way by the sweat of his brow, so must be.

Then we find in on Gods house. Cast thyself down for God has promised to care for you. Because I am a child of God and in his care. I have no right to think he will release me from labor.

He never has promised to cook for us, farm for us, do our business, clothes, house, and let us play lazy. He don't make favorites of his children. They are under the law of labor.

Then Ambition world crowned, world conqueror, palace owning, Empire builder, Army Captain, Nations homaging him.

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Devil

Glorious vision. The great Captains have dreamed it, fought for it, only at last to see the Empire fade like some vanishing glory.

Jesus saw all the Glory. He said I will own the world. I'll have no cringing vassals. I'll gather no warring troops. I'll impose no burdensome taxes. I'll have no slums, no Palaces to despise poverty. My subjects shall be men, not slaves.

The world shall serve me because it loves me.

How is he going to master the world? By love. It's a long, long way oft a dispairing way, a crucifixion way, but it wins...

The nations that love him now rule the world. They own the wealth of the world.

Even while those nations war, and are greedy, and swayed by false ambitions, yet is it true as the above sentence states it.

This accounts then for that wonderful picture of the Temptations of Jesus.

Johns discription of Appollyon, Satan chained for a thousand years is purelt fanciful or imaginative.