Page:Robert Carter- his life and work. 1807-1889 (IA robertcarterhis00coch).pdf/92

76 A wealthy member of the church said to Mr. Carter that he wanted to give systematically to the cause of Christ, but had not confidence in his own judgment as to apportionment, and he wished that, whenever Mr. Carter gave to any object, he would give a corresponding sum for him, Mr. Carter advised him to study the subject for himself, that he might give intelligently as well as systematically; adding that he would willingly aid him with his counsel whenever he wished.

A wealthy and eccentric gentleman, of great liberality, who was constantly applied to by sharpers for money, once asked Mr. Carter to be his almoner, because he felt sure that his gifts would be wisely applied; but he declined the responsibility, saying that the use of money was a talent for which every one must give an account for himself to God. This same gentleman arose to speak at an anniversary meeting of the American Bible Society. A friend sitting beside Mr. Carter on the platform said, “Do stop him. You are the only one who has influence with him, and he is so peculiar he may say something that will spoil the meeting.” Mr. Carter declined to interfere, very happily as it turned out, for the gentleman only spoke long enough to say that he was so impressed with the importance of the work of the Bible Society that he had determined to give ten thousand dollars to the cause. Mr. Carter turned to his friend, and said, “Was it not well to let him go on?”