Feb 12-1827
This day long to be remembered. The circling round of youthful friends as vines with cluster hung. The joie that in our bosoms glowed. (Word illegible) years when I was younger. But scenes and friends of earlier years with time have past along and memory only retrospects. I this day have the pleasure after some months separation again to join in my old cercle of dear young friends, (a party made for Brother Jacob & myself) at Mr. THOMPSONs, ratherly unexpected Mr. Simpson made one in our company - but tomorrow; must I soon be separated form this dear cercle - long will memory turn to the ramble of this evening, when shall we all meet again.
Feb th 13 1827
have returned home after a few weeks absence found my parents & sisters well
Feb th 18
is preaching at Fathers. how shall I escape if I neglect so great a salvation.
Feb 19
today my dear friend Margaret COOK is here how much is the society of such a girl to be esteemed but we must part again. O could I stay with a friend so kind how it would cheer my lonesome mind, But duty bids me understand, that we soon must take the parting hand.
Feb th 21
my friend Margaret has gone into Circleville Mr. THOMPSON is here; to night I have to set up Mrs. MOOTS how much better is the house of mourning than the house of laughtor. it teaches me to know how frail I am be nature
March th 1 - 1827 -
the first day of spring have heard our friend RUNNELS preach 1 Tim 4 & 8. for godliness is profitable unto all things having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come! Sister Margaret COOK is here. My thoughts lye open to the Lord - before there formed with-in - & ere my lips pronounce the word, thou knowest the (word illegible) I mean
March 4th 1827
have heard Father SMITH preach from St. John 12 & 35 - then said Jesus unto them, yet a little while is the light with you, walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you for he that walkest in darkness knoweth not whether he goeth. It tis a point I long to know. Oft it caused anxious thoughts. Do I love the Lord of know. Am I his or am I not -- Our friend William THOMPSON is here
March 11
Saboth have been to prayer meeting O my soul what means this sadness. Wherefore art thou thus cast down. - another week has fled away - and where am I how has this week been spent, wourldly cares beat upon me on every side. - but-reflection: - and must I be to judgment brought And answer that day for every vain and idol thought and every word I say. How careful then ought I to live. With what religeous who such a strict account must give for my behaviour here...
Saboth
April 1th 1827
we went to hear preaching but was disspointed another Saboth day is gone and how I spent it. time how precious and yet how much I spent musing on some future events that may never be how weak is human nature thy will O Lord and not mine be done and may I be contented. - Sympathy in obidence to nature drops a tear. -
April 12
my mind is greatly impresed to day with a dream I had last night concerning my dear Brother William. I dreamed I was standing looking at some persons diging a grave where he is buried I thought they had dug down about 6 feet when they come to his coffin I thought I wanted to see him but srunk back with but mother steping up and anxiously desiring to see him the coffin was taken up and opened but still I thought I was afraid to look expecting he was all decaid, but to my astonishment he looked as perfect as ever he did only pale I then thought some person lifted him up and set him by the fire while we all stood in mute amazement afraid to tuch or speak to him I thought he gazed at us all with tears in his eyes and said he had had a lonesome time I thought it hurt my feelings very bad and I answered that I thought a person could not get lonesome where he was - but give me to understand that he ment the imprisonment of the body in the tomb that his spirit was a perfect liberty that he knew every thing that was transacted here below and where every one went to that died whether to happiness or misery that he could accompany those that went to misery to the mouth of the pit but could not get any further I then thought I was where there was a great concours of people colected together some praying some shouting and some singing I then thought that I was all dreast in white that my friend A.F. my dear Brothers intended bride had he lived started to take a walk through a very delightful green woods but I thought I was so much agatated with what had passed that I could not speak for a while when I broke silence and said - strange how this thing could be that our Brother had been so long dead and now alive again. I thought I wanted to ask her whether she thought they would be married or not but could not command courage enough to do it. - I was so distressed in this dream that I awoke and was for some minutes before I could tell whether I had dreamed it or whether it was reality. --
Friend after friend departs
Who has not lost a friend,
there is no union here of hearts
But here must find an end. --
April th 29 1827
this day I find it hard to say thy will O Lord be done - self says my will be done. thou God of love I pray forgive me- O that I could be more sesined - O send thy spirit to releive me. For I am much distressed in mind Why can I not first seek the kingdom of Heaven with all my heart and trust that all things else will be added but - alas - I find my affections to much attached to one human object. O the ever active and restless power of thought - to what is my attention at present directed? could I disclose it to the world without a blush were God indtantly to call me into judgment what account of it could I give him; shall I be the wiser or the better for dwelling on such thoughts as now fill my mind? are they entirely consistant with my innocence, and with my present and future plan? if they are not to what purpose do I indulge these musings - time is the revealer of all things. May the great article of faith never escape my view. In thinking as well as in acting may I ever accuston myself to look up with reverence to that all piercing eye of divine observation, which never slumbers nor sleeps. Behold a pen always writing over my head, and making up that great record of thoughts, words, and actions from which at last I am to be judged, knowing that I am never less alone than when by myself, for then he is with me whos inspection is of greater consequence than that of all mankind
May th 11 - 1827
Life how uncertain, death how certain this morning as I was walking carlesly out to the garden, a burial procession caught my eye, moving slowly down the road - what were my reflections. another fellow mortal is gone never to return---
The year rolls round and steals away
The breath that first it gave,
What e’er we do by night or day,
We are hastning to the grave.-
May th13 - 1827 - Saboth morn
this morning is clear and pleasent all nature looks smiling - O - that my mind was settled as the air is serene I feel my affection to much bound to worldly things. My thoughts lie open to the Lord before there formed within. And ere my lips pronounce the word he knows the sense I mean. ---------
May th 21 --- The year rolls round and steals away the breath that first it gave this evening I am almost in reflections - reflecting on the scenes that has past in one short year - this evening one year ago I heard Mr. Bigalow preach from - seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is nigh. A sermon with other scenes long to be remembered that seems to have only been transacted yesterday how vain is all thing here below - who knows what a day may bring forth. ---
May the 27 - 1827
today Sister Sinah and myself has had a verry pleasent to Circleville to visit some of our friends - spent the evening very agreable - 7 of us taken a walk to the suger botom.
May the 27 - Saboth morning
the Sun is rising in the East all nature looks charming - may the sun of rightness arise with healings in his wings, and guard my every step - attended female Society meeting which was not all together in vain in the Lord - in the evening heard Mr DELAY preach from St John 3 -3 - ye must be born again, &c.
Forgive the song that falls so low
Beneath the gratitude I owe,
It means Gods praise how ever poor
And angels songs can do no more.
-------------------------
I muse to much on days gone by
When friends were near and I was blest
While swiftley the passing moments fly
And many a grief is lulled to sleep.
-------------------------
In the inchanting mounth of May
When nature wears a smile
her glowing charms each rising day
Many a tedious hour beguile.
June the first - 1827
The morning fresh, the sun in east
Now guilds the rising day,
The lark forsakes her dewey nest
Arise my soul and pray.
another year has rolled around and I am spared to see the return of summer again - my days my weeks, my mounths my years fly rapid as the whearling spears, and the Lord of nature only knows whether a nother may close, ere I may sink in death
June the 8 - have heard Mr. DELAY preach from Luke 12 & 32 fear not little flock for it tis your Fathers good pleassure to give you the kingdom A word in season Mr S-----n is here, how shall I do for the best. I am divided between two I know not which way to turn for the best how (___)tical is the female station did I know other hearts as my own I should know how to act - let thy will O Lord be done and not mine - for when I would do good evil is present
June the 10 - 1827
have heard Mr SOLOMON preach from St John XX & 31 and this it was written &c. - to a large audience in the leafy grove the most satisfactory sermon to me I have heard for a length of time, all nature teaches there is a cause for all things today we have had it explained in full - the great cause of all caused O for the understanding heart.
June 20th
Our good friend Brother William R----s is here is it our own Brother William or is it not - No, he is gone his voice is hushed - his body is now mouldring into dust - His eyes expressive, now are closed, his lips are sealed by death there frozed. how delightful is the company of the Children of God, this evening has been spent very agreeable reading/ - singing and conversing together - but soon must changes of circumstances cast this friend out of our Circle also.
June the 28 - 1827
yesterday I went in the garden. I saw a velvet rose in full bloom today I looked again, it was faded, its beauty was gone, this thought I is the state of man; today we are seen flurishing, to morrow we are no more.
July the 20
Camp meeting begins on turkey run
21 - this morning we went out early first sermon from Heb 11 & 24 - 25
2 by DELAY Mala 2 and 18 ---
on-------- Acts 20 & 21---
4 WELLS Romans 2-7 to 10 -
5 BIGALO Genes 4 9 & 10--
6 RUNNELS Isah 5 3 & 5
7 LAW Ehpe 1 - 14 & 15
8 LAW Hebrews 10 - 24 - 25
What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits to me
Come in, come in, thou heavenly guest
Nor hence again remove
Settle and fix my weavring breast
With all thy weight of love.
Create a clear heart within me O God and renew a right spirit. Give onto me the joys of thy salvation, and uphold me with thy spirit.
Aug th 2 - 1827
have heard Father DELAY preach from if the righteous scarcely be saved where shall the sinner and ungodly appear. O for a closer walk with God a calm and heavnly frame a light to shine upon the road that leads me to the Lamb -
Aug the 16 -
this day long to be remembered have heard our friend W. RUNNELL preach his farewell sermon from 2 Cor 13 & 11 - finally brethren farewell, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you: and sang the hymn beginning - Blest the dear uniting love, that will not let us part &c. - thank the Lord I feel this day like laying aside every weight and the sins that doth so easly beset me and running with patience the race that is set before me. O may I wear this world as a loose garment easly thrown aside at any time. May the language of my heart ever be thy will O Lord and not mine be done. Why concern I myself so much about the vanities of a world that profethet not. let me read the 42 Psalm again, and again and remember when I first heard it! - the 16 of Aug - 1827 -
Aug 25 - 1827 -
Two days meet in Circleville. Saturday evening Mr. HAYS preached from - Acts 17 - 30 & 31 - and the time of this ignorance God winked at, but now calleth men everywhere to repent &c. Saboth morning Mr HAYS from Job 19 & 25 26 for I know that my redeemer liveth &c. Second sermon Father DELAY from St John 3 - 1.2 - the grave is near the cradle seen, how swift the moments has past between, must I still write bitter things against myself. O how my thoughts incline to rove in search of what they love thy ways O Lord are equal it tis because I stray me that has been blessed with pious parents praying brothers and sisters my lot has been cast in a gospel land, but, O! how the vanities of time and sence ingroses my attention I am in a strait. I know not how to act for the best thou
knowest Lord, I desire to do right. O direct me, verifie thy promise, first seek ye the kingdom of heaven and all things else shall be added Is this the kind return and these the thanks I owe, this to abuse eternal love, whence all my blessing flow I care not how soon I may sink to repose, when some past blessing shall cease to be dear to my mind for disapointment chills each thought, and all my soul is filled with sadness
Thursday - Sep the 6 - 1827 -
the solemn day has arrived that fixes my fate for life, this day I change my name and am I calculated to fill this station thro life if I am not greatly deceived I am getting one of the best of companions - and sooner than I should ever disobey or neglect the performence of my duty towards him as well as the great giver of every good gift may I be cut off as a cumberer of the ground -----
Sep 7 -
Friday morning - what mute reflections rise My Fathers house I bid adieu And on lifes journey still persue today I shall be introduced to my new relation - what awaits me I know not know not now - but I shall know hereafter - )! may I find in Mr SIMPSON and his dear family Father - Mother - Brother & sisters - and all that I sacrefise for his sake. ----
morn
Sep the 8 - 1827 - Saturday
Sympathy here in obedience to nature, will drop the falling tear to see one of the best of Brothers and sister turn to go home, and leave me behind I trust with my better friend I for the first time fell myself separated from my Fathers house - Saturday evening - we visit Mr SIMPSONs Brother Williams family, I am much pleased
Sep the 9 - Saboth morning -
welcome sweet day of rest; I am in a strange place many new scenes awaits me, may I discharge my duty in every point, and make it my only earthly study to render Mr SIMPSON happy through life knowing our fate is so united together that to render him happy is to make myself so; his pleasure is mine, and mine is his - this evening spent very pleasantly in reading and meditation with a visit to the grave yard.
Sep th 10 - 1827 - Monday
visited my new Sister Sarah G. she appears like a sister indeed more than a stranger - may our friendship continue to bri_ then through life, and when all sublunary things fades away. --
Sep 11 - we visit my Uncles Mr WROTONs, my mind is filed with reflection this evening in viewing the changes that has taken place since my last visit here. When gentle evening shades appears and zephers waft along the grove, tis then sweet memory comes to cheer And bring to mind past scenes love
Sep 12
we went to camp meeting heard two sermons preached, took dinner in Old town and returned back again
Sep the 13
went to the camp ground again heard two sermons preached. took dinner in Old town and went down to Chillicothe in the evening stayed all night at Mr WOLFs
Friday 14
visited my childhood mattes E JOHNSON & A RUMMEL in the evening we went out to our good friends, Mr THOMPSONs,
Saturday the 15
returned to Father again. found them well anxiously looking for us what a great blessing we are well and they are well ---
Forgive the song that falls so low
Beneath the gratitude I owe
It means Gods praise however poor
And angels songs, songs can do no more
Tis a point I long to know
Oft it causes anxious thought
Do I love the Lord or know
Am I his or am I not
If I love why am I thus
Why this dull and lifeless frame
Hardly sure can they be worse
Who have never heard his name
Sep the 27 - 1827
My dear little Sister Ann married to Mr. G...platter. O how it wounds my heart to see the tears standing in the eyes of my dear parents at the loss of their children; tho agreeabel to their wishes it affecting O may heaven choicest blessings rest on them and may they be abundantly rewarded for all their kindness to us.--
Sep 28 -
went to the in. - fare. much pleased with Mr. Ps family and friends
Sep 29
had a very pleasant walk up the big hill to view the situation of the Country Six couples of us. Brother Jacob & Catharine PLATTER Sister Sinah & Mr PLATTER Brother and Sister PLATTER Mr PRETTYMAN & Mrs S PLATTER miss JOHNSON & Mr PLATTER mine and myself, returned back to the house. - expernce this evening what I never did before - the three sisters parted - Ann stays here Sinah returns to our Fathers house I to my new home Sympathy here in obedience to nature drops a tear. Sacred are the ties of natural affection tho I have every reason to believe that I am abundantly blessed in a Companion. One in who I hope to find Father Mother Brother and Sisters, one on who my every attention shall be placed endeavoring to promote his happiness. Still there is a part due to the dear protectors of my younger days went down to our Brother Math SIMPSONs stay’d all night. --
Sep 30-
Saboth morning clear and pleasent we all took a pleasent walk viewing the situation of the high bank. --
Saboth evening returned home to Father SIMPSONs received the friendly welcome home children
Oct 2 1827
Heard Mr ROSS preach from prepare to meet thy God O Isreal. dead be my heart to all below, to mortal joys and mortal cares. Sencial plasures to charms me so be dark my eyes and deaf my ears.--
Oct 4
Brother and Sister PLATTER here
Oct 5
started for Fathers. May peace be theirs and fairest fame to strew with flowers their path of life how strange it that I am at home yet in a strange place
Oct 7 Saboth
Mr PARSLLS here Mr SIMPSON and self went to newlite meeting a new mode of worshipping to me washing feet --
Oct 14 1827 Saboth
dark cloudy and raining notwithstanding I find in Mr SIMPSON and family all that I can wish I cant help reflecting on home and feeling anxious to see them what are they all doing have they been to meeting, are they all well, perhaps not are they lonesome. do they want to see us, who reads for Mother today. I almost fancy I see her drawing near when I begin to read anxious to catch every word as it fall from my mouth what shall I render to my parents for this best of fortunes and education, what they have so much felt the loss of, and with which they have blessed me.
Oct 15
went to meeting heard our new preacher preach from, God now calleth men every where to repent
I would but cannot rest
In Gods most holy will
I know that what he appoints is best
But murmur at it still.
Oct 21 Saboth
cloudy and rain all day was disapointed in going to meeting but spent the day verry pleasantly me and mine reading and singing. how I love to read the forty second psalm.
Oct 24
at the commencement of my new station in life I have commenced reading a portion of scripture every day. have today been reading the 55 Psalm. the Lord knows the desire of my heart I think if I know anything of my own heart my earnest wish is that Mr SIMPSON may come to know the Lord for himself, the he can take me by the hand and lead me on in the right way for I fear I shall be a stumbling block for him
Nov 3
new scenes await me every day. Father & Mother is here - Just starting home stay thou rising tears. now it tis that I feel that I have left my Fathers house - scenes of my childhood one tender adieu today Nov 3 - 1827 we have commenced house keeping.......
O may we with ourselves agree
And never covet what we see
Content us with a humble shade
Our passions tamed our wishes laid
Nov 4
been to meeting came home me and mine spent the evening reading and singing if we were not happy it would be our own faults may it ever be each ones happiness to render the other so -
Nov 11 - 1827 - Saboth morning
the morning fresh the sun in cast
Now guilds the rising day
The lark forsakes her dewey nest
Arise my soul and pray -
Saboth evening Just got home Mr SIMPSON and self went down to KINGs meeting house to hear STANDFORD preach but was disapointed - he did not come in peace to my memory
Nov 12
Mr SIMPSON & myself went to Chillicothe in the evening to Mr THOMPSON at night to a singing school here we meet the dear society of young friends with whom I was raised and where I have spent so many happy hours with but my sister Margaret C... is not here but O how happy am I. know in whom to trust yes my treasure of this world
Nov 13 - 1827
went to meeting. heard Mr COOPER preach from psalms 109 - 4 But I will give myself into prayer
Nov 17
delightful clear day but a shade of melancholy seems to cover my mind what is the cause - is souvereign unkind - No - what is wanten to make me happy, nothing but Contentment I have peace and plenty to live comforable a kind Companion that never meets me without the smile of affection may we ever be of one heart and mind, may we ever walk the journey of life hand in hand, ever striving to discharge our duty to word God and man wear this world as a loose garment easly thrown aside at any time
Nov 18 Saboth
dark cloudy day quarterly meeting at Croases but we did not go, though in body I am present in mind, may there be much good done in the name of the Lord. -
Nov 19
the evening shades again prevail Mr SIMPSON has gone to his Brothers I am alone absorbed in thought reflecting on the past the present and future whats past I know - whats present I know - but - whats to come I know nothing about. O, may we ever do our duty, and trust to ever dear Saviour let thy beauties be our souls eternal food and grace command our hearts away form all created good
Nov 25 - 1827 Saboth
Mr SIMPSON and self commenced reading the bible through read 18 chapters to day took a verry pleasent walk upon the pine knob. Lord when my raptured thoughts survey Creation o’er all nature joins to teach thy praise and bids my soul ado Where e’er I turn my gazing eyes thy raidiant foot steps shine Ten thousand pleasing wonders rise and speak thy hand Divine
Nov 27
have been to meeting heard Mr YOUNG preach form Matt 5 & 17 pleasent day. -
Dec 2 - 1827 Saboth
no meeting to go to time time passes away tedious, new scenes awaits me may I act wright in all things many miles separated me from my Fathers house - where are they with whom I have taken sweet councel with and walked together in company with to the house of God - I must now make my new home my chief delight and study to please and be pleased which is my delight. -
Dec th11 - 1827- Tuesday
have been to preaching heard mr COOPER preach from so run that you may - I feel like striving to lay aside every weight and the sins that doth so eagerly beset me and run with patience the race that is set before me like trying to wear this vain and perishing world like a loose garment - easly thrown aside at any time when the brige calls one desire have I that seems to bear with weight - that is that my companion was within the walls of the church, that he may share in all my delights life is uncertain we may soon be called hence prepared or unprepared for death enters and there is no defence - have this day heard of the sudden death of my friend Mrs NUSSELMAN which was very unexpected.
Dec 16
went to our Brother Matthew SIMPSONs. --
Dec 17
Another blooming youth is gone and is laid in the tomb - who I fear refused to climb up Calvary have just heard of the death of our young friend Henry HAYNES
Dec 22 Saboth
no meeting to go to. we took a walk. in the evening went to hear the organs played.
Dec 24
we start for Fathers cease fond nature cease thy strife I must this morning leave Sister Ann again, my mind runs back to the many happy days and hours we have spent together in Childhood - but we must forget the past and look to the future - arived at Fathers in the evening found them all well except Mother. her health is bad this winter
Dec 25 Christmas day
another year is past and gone - spent the morning with our dear Father and Mother in the evening we went to a singing at Mrs MARTENs
Dec 26
we returned home again to our sweet retired residence
Dec 30
my mind is somewhat afflicted fearing I have unconsciously wounded the feeling of my other self - Mr SIMPSON - which I would not do designedly for all the world contains
Dec 31 the last day of 1827
a verry clear pleasent day reflect - O - my soul on the many mispent hours of the past year life is a voyage in the progress of which we are perpetually changing our scenes. We first leave childhood behind us, then youth, then the years of riper age - let me prepare myself to encounter the light of truth. let me look back for this purpose on my past life, and see what has been it happiest period
January th 1 - 1828
another year has roll’d away and brought me this present day how is my unprofitable life lengthened out and what purpose, many are the changes of the last short year. this one year ago we were all together in my Fathers house but amidst all the changes of time may I never forget the one thing needful the secret pleasure within the world can neither give nor take away - I read Isaa went out to meditate at even tide. David amidst all the splendour of royalty often bears witness both to the pleasures he received, and the benefits he reaped, from devout meditation often were the garden, the mountain, and the silence of night sought by our Saviour for intercourse with Heaven. go do thou likewise --
Jan th4 1828 --
Brother Jacob and Sister Sinah here and have we three met again --
Jan 6
our Brother & Sister leaves us again. they go away and here we stay but still we are joined in heart farewell Brother Farewell Sister but dont forget me.
Tho we are widely doomed to part,
Thy long absence will intwine thee
Still more closely round my heart
Oft will busy recolection
Thoughts of former hours restore
Hours, that tears of fond affection
Tell me I shall see no more.
Jan the 8
Mr SIMPSON and self been to preaching heard Mr COOPER preach from Gal 4th 2 - part 3
Jan 20
been to preaching heard a sermon from ye will not come that ye may be made hole went in the evening Babtist meeting saw two dipt have received another letter from my sister Margaret COOK
Jan 22
been to preaching again heard Mr YOUNG from blessed are the poor in spirit - O shy am I not more diligent in serving the Lord, for he has ever been mindful of me - yea when I was not mindful of myself. he hath guided my unexperienced feet through many dangers, seen and unseen
When all thy mercys O my God
My rising soul survey
Transported with the view I’m lost
In wonder, love and praise
O how shall words with equal warmth
The gratitude declare
That grows within my ravish’d heart
But thou canst read it there
Jan 27 Saboth
we have been to preaching yesterday & today is quartally meeting Circleville. May it be productive of much good I can allmost fancy I see my Father, Mother Brother & Sister going up to the house of the Lord and filling their seat. and tho I am absent in body I am present in mind, but contended, knowing changes of circumstances, and my situation will not admit of our being there
Feb 4 1828
been to preaching heard Mr BARNUM preach from Heb 10 & 38 - Now the just shall live by faith, but if any man draw back, my soul shall have pleasure in him forbid thou holy one I should ever draw received a letter from Fathers they are all well
Feb 7
been to meeting again heard a strange preacher from behold I stand at the door and knock if any man hear my voice I will come in unto him and will sup with him and he with me. Rev 3-20 and sang O for a closer walk with God &c. Lord revive thy word once more. May the people take warning before it tis eternally to late for the road they are in leadeth to distruction they stand on slipery rocks while fiery billows roll below --
Sab Feb 17
have been again permited to fill my former seat in our old school house at hope town - what a change is here in a few years - I look round where are my parents, Brother & Sisters - they have moved away where is my Brother William he is no more he lies low in the silent tomb, where is my friend Susanah M.... she to is gone to her long sought home to reap the reward of her labours where is my friend Elisabeth she to is laid low by the cold hand of death - and my friend Ann F... she is married and gone - my friend Sarah she is gone how changed the scene the year rolls round and steals away - the breath that first it gave What e’er we do by night or day, We are hastening to the grave sent to Father MUSSELMAN staid all night. Monday raining. me and my beloved returned home in the evening --
Feb 19
attended Circuit preaching heard Mr YOUNG form Mi 6 & 8 he hath shewed the O Man shat is good, and what doth her require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God --- James is not here. I feel as if there was only a part of me here. O how I long to see him forsake sin and turn to God, that we may be one on earth and one in heaven
March th2 - 1828
Our dear Father is here for the first time. Mother is not well
March 4
been to preaching heard Mr COOPER from Gal 6 & 9 and let us not be weary in well doing, for in due season we shall reap if we faint not. Lord revive us for the love of many is waxing cold
March 15
we went to Fathers found them well
March 23
two days meeting at KINGs meeting house
two sermons love feast and Sacrement administered one sermon form not all that say unto me Lord - Lord - shall enter into the kingdom of heaven but he that doeth then will of my Father which is in heaven serious reflection do I do the will of my Father - or do I only say Lord - Lord - this I know if I desire anything upon earth it is to love and serve the Lord
April 1 - 1828
was at preaching heard Mr COOPER, form the parable of the sower --
Lord all I am is known to thee
In vain my soul would try
To shun thy presence or to flee
The notice of thine eye -
Mr COOPER stay’d all night with us our house for the first time soluted with publick prayer how beutious are the feet of those who stand on zions hill
April 13 Saboth
yesterday and to day is quarterlly meeting at Salem we were disapointed in going. how aimiable are thy tabernicle O Lord of hoasts Brother Jacob & Sister Sinah is there we spent the morning reading then we took a lovely walk set down in the woods like a couple more birds, came home I got us something to eat, my other self sang a little and thus we pass’d the day - forgive the song that falls so low - beneath the gratitude we owe.--
April 16
me and mine was at preaching heard a sermon from there remainith therefore a rest for the people of God - and shall we be prepared for this rest or shall we not serious thought - a heaven or hell and those alone beyond the present life are known
April 27
our Brother and Sister Matthew & Catherine SIMPSON has left here today thus it tis friend after friend departs, they go away and here we stay, but may we be joined in one in friendship
April 28
me and mine been to preaching heard Mr COPPER from Be watchful and strengthful the things that yet remain that are ready to die Rev 2 & 3
The time is short: the season near
When death will us remove
To leave our friends however dear
And all we fondly love. -
Why then place our affections so much on the perishable things of this vain world O Father! take every idol from thy throne and reign my Saviour reign alone - received a letter from Sister Sinah - how it rejoices me to hear of her prograce in grace. how does my little Sister Ann come on by this time is she still trying to stand firm in the gospel - tho parted now O may we three meet one day where parting is no more when shall I see the wish’d for time when me and mine shall be one in the Lord -
May 18 - Saboth morning
Clear and pleasent all nature wears a smile and seems to charm we have no preaching to go to
May 26
have been to hear my favorite preacher SANFORD preach the word is a food I feel encouraged to try to lay aside every weight and the sins that doth so easly beset me and to run with patience the race that is set before me. But there is a little weight that holds me back how can I go on and leave the dearest part of me behind ! Lord when shall it be that me and mine shall walk as one. O may we place our hopes on high, well knowing the fairest rose that blooms on earth must soon die. --
May 28
Mr SIMPSON is not at home how tedious time without his society I fear I should study too much how many are the changes of one short year where are my Brother & Sisters, one here and another there - cease fond nature --
June th 1 - 1828
Another year has past away and still I am spared on the land amongst the living My dear Mr Simpson is gone to preaching and I have staid at home for the first time new scenes await me daily - but as my day is so may my strength be - our Brother Andrew is here
June 15 Saboth
Mr Simpson has gone to preaching I am seting here alone. I will write a few lines to my long absent and often thought of Sister Ann. new scenes daily await us but whats to come we know not
July 14
James is gone for mother
July 15
My dear husband got safe home, with my dear Mother with him. how happy am I to have Mother to be with me a while. forgive the song that falls so low beneath the gratitude I owe
July 20 Saboth
this day spent reading to our dear Mother, how pleasent. --
July 29
Mother still here this evening Father came
July 31
to day Harvey Edward is born
Aug 5
My dear mother leaves me how I miss her, but still I am blest I have a good mother-in-law at hand and one of the kindest husbands highly prised favour
Oct
we visit Fathers, found them well except Father he has the fevers was Sister Ann here our family circle would be again fill’d. how changed the scenes
When shall we all meet again
When shall we all meet again
Oft may glowing hope expire
Oft may wearied love retire
Oft may death and sorrow reign
e’er we all shall meet again
Nov the 1 1828
rayney day I feel verry melencholy by some means. what is the reason
Nov 2 Saboth
no meeting to go to time passes away tedious and why, I fear a want of will to improve the means I have. I can read O what a blessing, O may I with myself agree and never covet what I see. I fear my affections are placed too much on our little Babe who can discribe a mothers love, if there is one human feeling free from the impulses of earthy frailty, that tells us in the slightest breathings of its celestial origin, it is that of a mothers love - a mothers chaste, overwhelming and everlasting love for her children. The dearest idol I have known, what e’er that idol be, help me to tear it from thy throne and worship only thee
Nov th 9 - Saboth
Come with the winter snows and ask
Where are the forest birds -
The answer is a silent one
More eloquent than words -
Hail ye sighing son of sorrow
Learn with me your certain doom
Learn with me your fate tomorrow
Dead perhaps laid in the tomb
See all nature fading, dying
Silent all things seem to mourn
Life form vigatation flying
Brings to mind the mourlding urn
------ -------- --------- ---------
See the leaves around us falling
Dry and weather’d to the ground
Thus to thoughtless mortals calling
In a sad and solemn sound
O that I could say with one of old
No changes of season or place
Can make any change in my mind
My drowsy powers why sleep you so
Awake my sluggish soul
Nothing hath half thy work to do
Yet nothing half so dull. --
Nov th 25
Brother Jacob and Sister Sinah visits us again brought me a letter from my dear little Sister Ann which inform me of her bad health when shall we two meet again
Dec th 12
me and mine went to Fathers found sister better we all for the first time since our separation serround our parents table together again how changed the scenes since last met
Dec th 15
returned home again found our Brother Andrew here in bad health --
Dec 21
been to hear Mr SANFORD preach his tex Proverbs 13 & 21 - in the evening Mr FREE from Jona 2 & 4 My soul forsake her vain delights and bid this wourld farewell, false as the dirt beneath your feet mischevious as hell - No longer will I ask your love, or seek your friendhip more, the happiness that I approve is not within your power
Dec th 25 Christmas day
clear and cold stay’d at home till evening. Went to Mr MOOREs stay’d till night then me and mine went to Mr James HANSONs stay’d till bed time and then returned in safty what shall I render Lord to the for the good conferred on me, a life devoted to thy fear a heart that glowes with love sereene
January th 1 - 1829
warm and pleasent. I am siting here all alone (excepting my little babe) in mute reflection reflecting on the past present and future. whats past I know, whats present I know but whats to come I know nothing about. new duties are daily involving on me daily. the care of a family the duties of a wife the dutys of a mother O may I fill my station or be taking out of the way of other time speeds its flight another year of my short life is gone with all its blessings and priviledges never to return. ye cares of life why toss me so, one thing only is needful
Jan 17 & 18
two days meeting at hopetown precious time heard Mr. SANFORD preach form life and death are in the power of the tongue, therefore choose it that ye my live. what in this vain wourld is to be compared with religion., Holy Bible Book divine precious treasure thou are mine mine to tell me whence I came, mine to teach e what I am, Mine to chide me when I rove, Nine to show a Saviour’s love, Mine art thou to guide my feet, Mine to judge, condemn, acquit, Mine to comfort in distress, if the holy spirit bless, Mine to show by living faith, Man can triumph over death, Mine to tell the joys to come, and of the rebel sinners doom. Oh thou precious Book divine, precious treasure thou art mine
Jan 23 1829 Saboth
at home myself and Babe alone. how sweet the hour of calm repose when I can set and read undisturbed far preferable is this to the busy splender of the world
Feb th 17
heard my verry dear friend Margaret COOK is married, may the peace she deserve ever be hers, and fairest fame to strew with flowers her path of sensibility of taste and feeling, on whos bosom her cares may love to recline. Oh, how I feel the loss of the female society of such a friend as my Sister Margaret. how oft have we took sweet counsel together, but she to is gone with scenes of other years. -
Saboth Feb th 22 - 1829 O love divine how sweet thou art, When shall I find my willing heart, All taken up by thee I feel fresh determanations to strive to be wholly for God, and none else. May the Lord increase my desires and enable me to live more to his honor and glory.
March 1 1829
been to preaching received two letters from Fathers my sister Anna health is yet bad may health return desease fly and joy again sparkle in her eye
June 24 - 1829
today Margaret COROTHERS is buried young people all attention give - you that in wicked pleasures live - one of our sex this day - has been by deaths cold hand - called away.
1829 August
at Fathers two or three weeks our little son has been sick most all summer
Sep the 1
Brother Jacob is married, Sister Sinah left alone
Sep 11
Brother J & Sister S. & E here
Sep 14
J.... and E... leaves us Sister Sinah stays a while
Sep 20
Brothers Andrew and MOORE, Sister S and myself took a walk upon the pine knob. how marvelous are the works of nature ---
Nov th 8
this Father and Mother came to see us
Nov 26
this morning Edgar Andrew was born
Dec 7
Mother leaves us
January 1830
Jan 27
have heard of our Sister Sinahs marriage
Jan 31 Saboth
I am alone absorbed in thought while many of those with whom I have walked in company to the house of God all privledged where are my parents my Brothers and Sisters some if not all of them no doubt are acting under the word. Oh that I was as heretofore when warm in my first love when I only lived my God to adore and seek the things above. new time brings with it new care I stand alone in the church and when I would do good evil is present Why heave my breast with these disponding sighes Why O my sinking spirit why thus distressed, Art thou not formed to seek thy native sky and not in this frail tenement to rest why art thou thus cast down? resign thy load throw of thy needless fears and trust in God. ---
Feb 27
Brother and Sister PLATTER and their little daughter is here
28
we all went to father-in-laws
March 2 1830
our Brother & Sister leave us - O could we stay with friends do kind. how it would cheer our lonesome minds But duty bids me understand that we must take the parting hand
March 3
me and mine went to preaching but was disapointed O when will the light of the gospel again dawn upon my heart to thee O God my life I owe when I look at the vain persuits of the most of the youths of our neighbourhood and reflect upon the society of young people I once injoyed the contrast is striking where will the lot of my children be cast in light or darkness let thy will O Father be done concerning them and forgive the song that falls so low beneath the gratitude I owe.
March 8 Saboth
no meeting to go to but I can read my Book how would my dear parents rejoice at this priveledge
July 14
received a letter from Sister Sinah a welcome visatent.
July 15 1830
my other self is absent I am alone trying to take care of our dear little Babe, which I consider a verry responsable office. ---
July 18
this day I am 27 years of age so much of my useless life is left behind: Awake my soul review the past, Look through the years now waning fast And ere they close adore that God! Who really loaded it with good. What tender mercys every day has chased each rising want away, And the real fount from which it flowed, Each needed blessing has bestowed Altho sometimes dark clouds has rose, As if it would my bliss appose Its shades full soon were driven away by the gad gleams of rising day to often have I been indifferent to my greatest interest - have been lukewarm when I ought to have been filled with holy resolution and zeal. O speak the second time be clean take away all inward sin every stumbling block remove fill my heart with perfect love
July 31
Harvey Edward is 2 years old how time speeds it flight and what am I doing my heart departs from the Oh! Lord and my desires and affections become fixed on many things the cares of the world beat up on me. none takes me by the hand and leads me into the right way. --
Oct 11
heard Mr LEWIS preach from Gen the 5 & 24 and Enoch walked with God, and he was not; and he was not for God took him. --
Oct 25
this evening we are called to witness the death of our eldest son our dear little Harvey Edward Simpson Our Saviour hath said suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
The who these gracious words pronounced
Whos life for man was given
Hath called our little Harvey home
To dwell with him in heaven.
Then why should we lament our loss
Since he hath gained a crown.
Instead of murmuring, let our heart
In gratitude abound.
Though death like an untimely frost, hath nipt this fragrant flower, the soul uninjured by the shock, defies the tyrants power. Exulting in the Saviours name, this language he may sing, O grave where is thy victory O, death where is thy sting.
Tho sympathising parents mourn to see their Children die, Soon as the cumbrous shackles fall the raptured soul doth fly, Escorted by angelic bands to heaven it wings its way Leaving behind an irksome world, where purest joys decay -----
Harvey Edward was born July 31 - 1828 Died October 25 - 1830
Nov 7 1830
have been to prayer meeting O for an undue attachment to the world and the vanities thereof for they are all perishable in their nature O may my thoughts be placed on high (for I see) the fairest rose but blooms to die -- Yes so hath faded my lovely blooming flower sweet smiling solace of an hour. So soon our transient comforts fly, and pleasures only bloom, to wound us when they die.
Nov th 21 - 1830 Saboth
at home alone no preaching to go to O for a right improvement of my time time speeding its flight as soon as we are born we begin to draw to our end and how small is the interval between the Cradle and the tomb.
Nov 26
Edgar Andrew is one year old
July 5 - 1831.
this day - Oh - sad to relate our dear and only little son Edgar Andrew was killed aged one year eight months and eleven days. so has faded our lovely blooming flowers sweet smiling solace of an hour. so soon our transient comforts fly, and pleasures only bloom to wound us when they die O may these afflications work for our good. teach us the uncertainty of earthly joys, for the tenderest cords that bound us to earth is now broke, but cease my sorrows nor with murmuring voices dare to accuse heavens high decrees. My Babes were first ripe for everlasting joy, and now they wait above for me and mine --
July 6
today we commit his dear remains to the silent tomb there to rest went to Fathers
July 7
returned home but O what a gloom all around wears, all is vacent and lonely here is his vacent seat, there is vacent cradle yonder his useless clothes all around bears a sad memiour of him
July 8 & 9
my other self is sick, O how heavy does my time pass. I was looking through the bible, wishing for a word of comfort when I cast my eyes upon these first Peter and 12 beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as tho some strange thing happened unto you, But rejoice in a much as ye are pertakers in Christs sufferings, that when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy
July th 28
Oh my soul what means this sadness wherefore art thou thus cast down. looked in the bible, cast my eyes upon Isaiah 49 & 21 Then shall thou say in thy heart who hath begotten me these, seeing I have lost my Children and am desolate.
As the sweet flower that scents the morn
But withers in the rising
Thus lovely was my Harveys dawn
And swiftly fled Edgars life away
And as the flower that early dies
Escapes from many a coming woe
No lusture lend to guilty eyes
Nor blushes on a guilty brow
So the sad hour that closed their eyes
Perhaps has spared some heavier doom
Snatched them from scenes of guilty joy
Or form the pangs of ills to come
See’st thou my soul how frail the ties
That bind thee to this transient earth
How soon each blooming comfort dies
E’en in the hour that gives it birth
Yes thus my heavenly Father will
To win me from my idol love
And calls me by these seeming ill
To fix my wayward thoughts above
I have seen no pleasure here on earth, to trace from now back to my birth That need intice my soul today in such a world of misery: But by faith I view the distant shore where pleasure reigns forever more.
Sep th 1 1831
Brother Andrew here James and myself went home with him to our lovely parents visited the grave of our dear little Harvey Edward
Sep 18
returned home again stopt to view the sod that conceals the remains of our dear little Edgar Andrew from our view - sympathy here in obedience to nature may well drop the falling tear
Dec th 9
the birth day of our third son Samuel Nelson, a promising child but how long may we keep it Oh for a lowly and contrite heart Believing true and good.
Jan 1 1832
Another year has rolled it round. a solemn question how has it been spent by me O for a closer walk with God A calm and heavenly frame
March 1
the winter now is past and gone. Sweet spring is coming on
August 4
this evening my two sisters and their famelys pays us a visit
5 - Saboth
When shall we three meet again Oft may glowing hope expire, Oft may wearied love retire, Oft may death and sorrow reign ere we three shall meet again
"Friendship" - what a name, But to to few confine the ofspring of a noble mind. A generous warmth that fills the Breast, And is better felt than e’er exprest.
In the evening heard Mr COLLINS preach from, And there is no night there. Solemn question and shall I be one that shall know, no night there
19
heard Mr SOLEMN preach a funeral sermon how I am priviledged above what I deserve what shall I render Lord to thee, I or all the good conferred on me, both of a spiritual an temporal while many is separated from their friends on earth unworthy me and mine - is permitted with my aged parents, my only Brother both my sisters and their families to set under the sound of the same voice - But alas a little time may make a great change according to the course of nature. My parents are drawing near the grave
Age has advanced they feel a short decay that robs the form of each commanding grace, pass’d is their summer - pass’d the autumnal day, And hoary winter wither o’er the fall O may we treat our parents with due respect old age is a time of much suffering, and it frequently happens that all the early associates are gone - the present generation are comparatively speaking strangers and not very much inclined to make due allowance for the infirmities of old age
Sep 2 Saboth
at home the summer now is past and gone
December 9
our son Samuel one year old. My God make our Samuel thy child as he grows in time may he grow to thee. help me to fill my covanent aright in daily offering him to thee at a throne of grace
Dec 24 1832
our Sister Sinah not expected to live, but there is comfort in the midst of sorrow she says she is not afraid to meet her God for death to her has lost its sting
Janu th 1 1833
I am still living but O what account can I give of myself. Samuel Nelson has got the mesels why am I so conserned is he not in the hands of the Lord. God forbid he should be my idol stear every idol from my heart, and reign my saviour reign alone
Jun 15
Sister Anns Babe dangerously scalded O how thick dangers stand through all the ground, to push us to the tomb. how vain are all things here below how false and yet how fair --
January 29 1833
James and myself starts down to his Fathers found our aged parents well as we could expect friendly dwelling
Jan th 30
this day our Brother Andrew is married we are much pleased with our new Sister O may the surest blessings of heaven bless their union with life and godlyness
Feb 2
we again visited the grave of our dear little Harvey Edward. thus we are called to mourn
Feb 3
Our Fathers house we bid again adieu, and on lifes journey still try to persue
Our parents we bid you now adieu
We leave you in God’s care
And if on earth we should no more see you
O may we meet you far above
Where all is harmony and love
Feb 8 1833
my dearest dear is not well O my soul what means this sadness, wherefore art thou thus cast down is he not in the hands of his God will he not do what is just right: O me of little faith
Feb 28
my James has been away has just got home is well the joy of meeting ever pays the pangs of parting. my beloved is mine and I his and what can I want besides
March 1
the first day of spring and a deep snow on the ground
March 9
O does James believe me. Save me O God the swelling floods break in upon my soul, Insing in sorrow oer by head like mighty waters roll
July 4 1833
James is taken sick
July 5
still worse
July 6
still worse considered very dangerous. What sorrow compases me around, and endless distresses I see. Astonished I cry can a mortal be found that is serrounded with trouble like me
July 7
a little better O Lord prepare me for my lot O may I be resined to thy will
July 12
sometimes better and sometimes worse.
20
mending slowly
27
still better we went to camp meeting
28 Saboth
O blessed day O glorious hope, my soul leaps forward at the thought. O may I be at peace for mine eyes have seen thy salvation O Lord
July 29 - 1833
day long to be remembered this day I am permited to witness what I have so long in my weak manner prayed for to see my dear companion within the pales of the church. bless the Lord O my soul and all that is within me bless his holy name. affection here in obedience to nature drops the falling tear. O may our moments sweetly run and sling our hours away till evening shades and seting conclude in endless day
July 30
returned home
31
James not so well save me O God when swelling floods break in upon my soul
Aug 4 Saboth day
Lord in the morning mayest thou hear my soul ascending high to the will I direct my prayer to the lift up mine eyes
Sab Aug 25
bless the Lord O my soul and all that is within me bless his holy name. I am this evening honored to surround my own family alter and me and mine call upon the name of the Lord together - O Lord establish us. keep us by the right hand of thy power our Samuel N. is sick thy will O Lord and not ours be done
Aug 27
awful accident. a near neighbor Jacob BOWSER was killed instantly with lighting the grave is near the cradle is seen how swift the moments pass between and whisper as they fly. unthinking ones remember this the fond of sulunary bliss, we all are born to die
November th 25
our Lewis A is born. what a charge they are Samuel Nelson is almost two years old. how time speeds its flight
April the 26 1834
we start for the new country. Fathers house I’ve bid adieu, and on lifes journey still persue. My dear Mother I expect to see no more in this world O how trying these things are
May the 5
arrived at Brother James MARTINs on the Maumee River after a journey of nine days
Sep th 8
Sister Sinahs little son is no more, died of a little more than 2 days illness - O death, death
Sep th 22
her Margaret Elen is born --
February the 2 1835
James starts in south. how lonely I feel
February the 28
James arrived home this evening but is not very well but found and left our parents and friends well as usual
July
received a letter which informs us that my dear Mother lies sick not expected to live. O that I could see her again and wait on her a little, but this priveledge is denied me
Sep
received another letter which informs us that my dear Mother is no more and she is gone and is her voice hushed, yes - her body is now mouldring into dust her eyes so expressive now are closed her lips are sealed by death they are frozed - the last time I saw my Mother was on the 24 of April 1834 the day we left pickaway county and started for the Maumee we arrived at Martins on the Maumee the 4 of May
Franklin was born the 13 of Feb 1836 we left the Maumee
