Page:Robert Carter- his life and work. 1807-1889 (IA robertcarterhis00coch).pdf/17



CHAPTER I.

N the sturdy character of a Christian Scotchman, brought up in the earnest fashion of his Covenanting ancestors, there is something that carries our thoughts into the Book of Psalms on which they so loved to dwell, and we think of the “tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper”; for “his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” “With long life shall he be satisfied,” for he has the promise that “goodness and mercy shall follow him all the days of his life, and he shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”

Never were these words more truly fulfilled than in the history of Robert Carter. His life was successful in the best sense. God seemed to give him the desire of his heart, and did not withhold the request of his lips. Chastening was sent to him, lest there should be any doubt as to his being one whom the Lord loveth; but in his long and honored life sunshine predominated over shadow, joy over sorrow. He went to his grave like a shock of corn fully ripe, with no cherished plan defeated, his work well accomplished, his faith firm and 1