Page:The McClure Family.djvu/67

Rh us all in that path of duty if we will only use the means that is sent to us but when we do our best it is too little. I think Thomas trys to fulfil his command in religion, he keeps worship twist a day. I think he is a good Christian in heart but him and me cant agree in sentiments, I do not like the ways of their church, I dont get much to preachen. I just think sometimes that if I was at Bethel and here Mr. McFarland it would revive my cold spirit. I must conclude and bid you good evening. No more your nies.

BETSY McCLURE.

."

She died suddenly about a year after writing the above letter and is buried in the family lot near Rogersville, Tenn.

4., b. near Waynesboro, Va., May 28, 1794, and died at his home near Old Providence Church April 26, 1873. His grave is marked in the Bethel Cemetery.

His mother, dying when he was less than two years old, he was raised by a great aunt, Sarah Steele, of Augusta Co.

He m. July 27, 1819, Jane Pilson (June 14, 1797—Sept. 18, 1882), dau. of George Pilson and Elizabeth Thompson, removed the same year to the home of his uncle and aunt, James and Betsy Fulton, which he later inherited and where he lived for fifty-six years, one of the most prosperous farmers and highly respected citizens of that section of the county.

His father being practically without property, his early educational advantages were limited. He had, however, some school privileges, as did his brothers and sisters. His English Grammar published at Holgate, near York, 1795, is in the hands of the writer.

He was twice elected Ruling Elder in Bethel, but his conception of the office was such that he could never bring himself to feel that he was worthy to accept it.

In 1829, in company with Mr. John B. Christian and his brother-in-law, Mathew Pilson, he made a trip on