Page:Robert Carter- his life and work. 1807-1889 (IA robertcarterhis00coch).pdf/196

180 in Charleston, South Carolina, he had visited. He was a man of most benevolent character. In slavery times, no free colored person was allowed to live in South Carolina. If they earned money to purchase their freedom, they were obliged to put themselves under the protection of some white man, and be considered his slaves. Quite a large number had chosen him as their master in this way, and, while calling themselves his slaves, they carried on business for themselves. When Mr. Carter visited him, in 1855, he would frequently say, in passing through the streets, “That is my man,” or, “ That is my woman.” This noble Christian man during the war visited hospitals and prisons, carrying kindly relief and sympathy to the wounded of both armies. He had removed to Columbia, and was there when it was burned. When Sherman’s army passed through, there was great excitement and trouble in the town. He was summoned to his front gate to speak with a party of soldiers who demanded food, “I will do the best I can for you, but the Southern army has just passed through, and stripped our larder, and really I have but poor fare to offer you.” While he was speaking, the torchlight fell full on his face, and a soldier exclaimed, “Why, old horse, is that you?” And turning to the commanding officer, he said, “This man was very kind to us Northern prisoners. I was sick and in prison, and he came to me bringing comforts and speaking kind words.” “I shall set a guard on his house, then,” said the officer. “Sir, you need fear no further molestation.” Through all that stormy time, “the beloved of the Lord dwelt in safety by Him.”

When he came North, after peace was declared, he arrived unexpectedly one evening at Mr. Carter’s house,