Page:Southern Historical Society Papers volume 26.djvu/289

 .1 .)/,;/_.)/. /;. //,/,. L>7'.t

by public and pri\ate ministrations, and from the faces of hundreds who weep for him now, has he often wiped away the bitterest tears in time of sore bereavement.

In public prayer he was recognized as a model. Almost any one of his extemporaneous prayers was worthy of being kept for perma- nent liturgical use. He voiced the aspirations of those whom he led at the throne of grace, saying what they felt but knew not how to express, in such a way as to kindle and intensify devotion, and to infuse a calm and peaceful resting at the feet of the great High Priest of our profession.

When he read a hymn, he made it a sermon, a prayer and a vehi- cle of praise. It is safe to say no man could do it better. Each thought and shade of thought were interpreted by the silver voice, and the heart that responded to each holy impulse of the sacred lyric.

TRUE, BEAUTIFUL, AND GOOD.

So one might go on at any legth to speak of the power of this re- markable man, in his chosen sphere, and in his own and only pulpit which he illuminated for fifty-three years, which was the focus, and object of all his study the throne from which his influence went forth far and wide. His whole life and work stood as a protest against what was not true, beautiful, and good, and were an inspiration to everything that looked towards the advancement of the best interests of men, and the glory of the God whom he faithfully served.

AS A COMFORTER AT THE SICK-BED.

Among the most precious memories of the dead minister, cher- ished are by those whose privilege it was to receive his tender and sol- acing ministrations, and the many who were the recipients of his sympathetic attentions and consolations on the bed of suffering. He was so careful of causing anything of surprise or shock, so noiseless in entering the sick chamber, so soothing in voice and so soft in touch and so comforting and sustaining in counsel and sympathy. The invalid always testified, warmly, as to the benefit received; fever seemed to be abated, pain subdued, and anguish tranquilized. " Oh you make me feel so much better, vou comfort- me so," was the con- stant assurance.

His personality was truly winning and his very touch was mag- netic, was the grateful meed.

The gentle Doctor had a way of his own of taking both hands of