WILLIAMLCLEMENTS
LIPRARY OF
AMERICAN IIISTORY
UNIVERSITY/MICHIGAN

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REMAINTS
OF
wossº, A.E. saxºses,
WHO DIED AT NEw-LEBANoN, 12 Mo. 14, 1825,
AGED 20 YEARs.
PUBLISHED BY THE REquest of His FRIENps,
FOR THE BENEFIT OF YOUTH,
“Honourable age is not that which standeth in length.
of time, nor that is measured by number of years :
but wisdom is the gray hair unto men, and an
wnspotted life, we old age.”
ROCHESTER, JN. Y.
PRINTED BY E. F. MARSHALL,
For Procter Sampson, of JNew-Lebanon.
1827.
..] D W ERT IS EJME.N. 'I'.
THE writer of the following Poetical Pieces was
born at Marshsfield, in Mass, 20th of the 10th
month, 1805, and was named ADAM HALL SAMPson,
after his Mother's Father, Adam Hall, of Marsh-
field, who was great grand son of Peregrine White,
the first white man born in New-England. After
he came to live in the Society of Believers, com-
monly called Shakers, at New-Lebanon. he was call-
ed Joseph SAMPson, which name he ever after re-
tained.
The pieces are mere Juvenile productions, and
some of them written at quite an early age, though
it is unknown at what age most of them were com-
posed, as but few of them were dated. He never
had devoted his time to the study of poetry. His
practical reading was very limited, and he had re-
ceived no further benefit from poetical criticism, than
what his own judgment, and the conversation of his
youthful companions suggested. These observa-
tions are made for the consideration of the candid
º as defects, no doubt, may be discovered in
them.
PREFACE By Hrs FATHER.
WHEN our beloved friends are taken from us by
the hand of death, it is consoling to think upon their
virtues; and if they have left any testimonials of
their religious exercises, such memorials interest
our feelings in a peculiar manner. And when we
reflect, that their agreeable and instructive conver-
sation is never again to be enjoyed by us in this
world, to read what they have written, if upon in-
teresting subjects, and such as convey useful truths
to our minds, it seems like renewing our converse
with those we loved—like hearing from the invisi-
ble world—like a voice from Heaven. Thus cir-
cumstanced, we are excited to press more ardently
into the mansions of perfect and never ending friend-
ship—to labour more fervently after a fulness of
that life, which can never die—for perfect holiness:
—that our union may be perfect with the whole
family in God,
“The saints below, and saints above,
“Join’d by His spirit and His love.”
Since the death of my beloved som, the perusal of
his manuscripts has been very comforting to me.
I see in them the picture of a mind I loved ; I see
those feelings he manifested by his exemplary life
and conversation, painted in words; and I renew-
edly bless the Author of all Good, for that light"
understanding, and grace, evidently bestowed upon
him. --
iv. PR EFACE.
Perhaps some allowance must be made for a pa.
rent’s judgment ; but I candidly thought, during
the latter part of his life, that I seldom, if ever, saw
So young a person, whose mind appeared more con-
stantly stayed on God, or whose spirit seemed more
free from guile.
His Mother died when he was five and a half
years of age. He was a little over eight when I
brought him, with his sister, then eleven, among the
people with whom I now live. Since then, I have
seen abundant cause of thankfulness that I did it.—
For I know that in obedience to the testimony borne
by this people, I have gained a victory over sin,
which I never before could gain, though I sought it
for more than twenty years. Here have my chil-
dren been kept from the evil that is in the world, in
a manner they could not have been kept among any
other people. And although my children have not
learned some things here, which they might have
learned in some other situation, I feel satisfied and
thankful for what they have learned. For a youth
of twenty, I thought my beloved Joseph had attain-
ed as much knowledge, really useful, as almost any
young person, with whom I have been acquainted,
at that age. He had not, it is true, spent years of
the best part of his life for improvement, in learning
the dead languages, out of books calculated to cor-
rupt the minds of youth, and inspire them with feel-
ings directly opposite to those inculcated and man-
ifested by Him who was meek and lowly in heart;
PREFACE, i’.
but he had learned to speak the language of truth
and kindness;–the pure language used by the chil-
dren of Zion. He was not so familiar with the
darkening history of proud,bloody warriours,and the
intrigues of corrupted human governments, as some
young men; but he had learned to war against, and
to overcome an evil nature within himself, and to
keep himself under the government of the Prince of
Peace. He had not studied, like many young men,
the politeness of Chesterfield, or the false art of
pleasing, by complimenting and flattering the proud
nature of man; but he had learned to treat his fel-
low men with kindness and respect, from the im-
pulse of a heart of benevolence, peace, and good
will to man. He had not so studied the art of being a
gentleman, according to the perverted sense of the
term, as to challenge his friend to a duel for an im-
aginary insult ; but he had learned, in a good de-
gree, to be gentle unto all men, according to the
scripture sense of the term ; to be kind, tender-
hearted, and forgiving ;--to render not evil for evil,
nor railing for railing ; but to bless those who curs-
ed; to overcome evil with good, and as much as
in him lay, to live peaceably with all men : for he
knew Him who said “if ye forgive men their tres-
passes, your Heavenly Father will forgive you”—
but “if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither
will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
He was seized with a pulmonary complaint the
spring before he died, but kept at work till sonse
1%
wi. FREFA.cf.
time in the summer, when he gave up business, and
from that time failed rapidly. Several physicians
advised his going to the sea side, thinking he might
receive benefit from the sea air. I set out from
New-Lebanon with him the 10th of 8th mo. and we
journeyed nearly two months. We visited Shirley,
Harvard, Lynn, Boston, Marshfield, Plymouth, and
many other places, and the journey to me, though
attended with much anxiety and concern, was not
a disagreeable one. From Boston to Plymouth we
went by water, and his sea sickness evidently had a
good effect upon him, for a season. While with
him on this journey, I had an opportunity of observ-
ing his daily conduct, and discovering the spirit he
possessed; and never before was I so sensible of the
superiour powers of his mind, and the meek, patient,
quiet spirit by which he was governed. His desire
was, to be restored to health, if it was for him; and
he was willing to practice any degree of abstemi-
ousness and care in his diet and regimen, that his
physicians recommended; still I never saw any
thing in him that looked like murmuring or com-
plaining, though he suffered much at times, and
journeying far from home, was what he had not been
used to. The kind attentions paid to him in many
of the places that we visited, often recur to my
grateful recollection. May the Lord shew mercy
and kindness, to those who shewed mercy and kind-
ness to him, while on this journey.
Although much of the time on this journey he
T'REFACE, vii.
grew more unwell and weaker, before we got home
he evidently gained : and for several weeks after
our return, he continued to mend, which encoura-
ged us much to hope that he would recover. But
after the Influenza began to prevail, he was violent-
ly seized with it, which in a few weeks terminated
his life.
If the fervent wishes of many sympathizing friends
could have prevented his death, he would still have
lived —if the attentive care of skilful physicians
and excellent nurses, could have preserved his life,
he would not have died. Every thing was done
that was thought best to do, to restore him to health.
But all availed not. His lovely spirit is gone,
and we are left to profit by the bereavemeut, and
to be excited by this providence, to labour more
fervently for that holiness, which alone can prepare
us for the everlasting society of the good.
I loved him much : not merely because he was
my only son, but because he was innocent, virtu-
ous, and, therefore, lovely. And nothing on this
globe, appears to me more lovely, nothing gives me
more delightful sensations, than to see children and
youth, who train themselves while young,to the feel-
ing and practice of virtue. O children, O young peo-
ple, learn while young, the way of truth and holi-
ness. Learn while young to “fear God, and keep
his commandments, for this is the whole of man.—
For God shall bring every work into judgement,with
every secret thing, whether good, or whether evil.”
Wiii. *RE FACE,
If you truly fear God, you will fear to do any
thing you know to be contrary to his will ;--you
will be intent to do that which you believe to be
pleasing in his sight. Now God is no respector of
persons. He offers every one his roercy and salva-
tion in the Gospel, on the same equal, unalterable,
self-denying terms. “God is Love ; and he that
dwelleth in Love, dwelleth in God, and God in
him.” Be careful to admit no feelings in your
breasts contrary to perfect good-will to every hu-
Iman creature. Ever remember this ; You eannot
hurt or injure another, without proportionably
hurting yourselves:--you cannot do good to an-
other, without doing good to yourselves. Jesus
Christ loved those who hated him. When he was
reviled, he reviled not again; when he suffered, he
threatened not, but committed himself to Him who
judgeth righteously :-and safely he might do it :
for he knew it was written, “Wengeance is mine ;
I will repay, saith the Lord.” It is impossible to
be a Christian and an enemy. Mankind have no.
onemy but the devil, and those who are of his ma-
Hicious spirit.
One trait in the character of the author of the
following pieces, worthy the imitation of all chil-
dren and young people, was his sacred regard to
Truth. From his early childhood he seemed deep-
ly impressed with the importance and necessity of
speaking nothing but what he believed to be true on
any occasion. After his death, his sister mentioned
*REFACE. ix.
to me, that she heard him speak of his having once
told a lie, when he was very young, probably not
more than four or five years of age ; and mention-
ed what anguish and distress of mind he felt on ac-
count of it, for some days after. It is my opinion,
that he never told a lie after that, while he lived.
A4 his funeral, the Elder in the family where he
had lived from the age of eight years till his death,
testified in publick, that he had never been known
to tell a lie, or use deceit in any case, since he had
lived in the family. And of what importance it is,
that children and young people should learn while
young, to pay a sacred regard to Truth on all occa-
sions. I always entertain good hopes of children,
whom I see afraid to tell a lie, or use any deceit,
however much they may need amendment in other
respects. Learn then, beloved children, to speak
the truth in all you say. Hate and reject every
temptation of the father of lies, to practice deceit
on any occasion, however strong you may feel the
temptation to do it. Christ calls himself the Truth.
I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, says he ;--
no man cometh to the Father but by me. Come to
this precous Way—this Truth—this Life—-that tes-
tifies in your consciences of the necessity of forsa-
king every evil, and every false way. Learn of him
who is meek and lowly in heart, by consenting to
deny “ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live
soberly, righteously,and godly, in this present world;
looking for that blessed hope and the glorious ap-
pearing of the Great God, and our Saviour Jesus
X. IPR.EFACE.
Christ, who gave himself for us, that he might re-
deem us from all iniquity, and purify to himself a
peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Thus will
ye find rest unto your souls. Thus will ye know,
for yourselves, by happy experience, that Jesus does
indeed,and in truth,' save his people from their sins.”
P. SAMPSON.
Portbay, Wayne co. JW. Y. :
1st mo, 20th 1827.
ittittàittº, &c.
SERIOUS THOUGHTS AND RESOLUTIONS.
WHILE ent’ring young on life’s uncertain stage,
A thousand wav’ring thoughts our minds engage ;
A thousand charms appear before our eyes,
And thousands in imagination rise ;
Bright glitt’ring joys appear to grace our way,
And brilliant suns give splendour to our day;
Unclouded skies in glitt’ring beauty shine,
And beauteous flowers th’ enchanting path entwine,
As we advance, these flowers disappear;
The azure skies no more remain so clear ;
The splendid suns that seem'd to cheer our way,
Withhold their light, or lend a fainter ray;
Our day is shadow’d with a hopeless gloom,
And to our view appears the dismal tomb.
While we pass thro’ this variegated way,
Alluring charms their beauteous hues display;
And fondly would we call these charms our own-
But ah! if one is gain'd, the other's gone :
Oft will two objects dear before us rise,
And one must surely fall a sacrifice;
Oft many flow'ry paths to us appear,
And rival glories every passage cheer;
But one alone, our feet at once can tread,
And ere we can enjoy the rest, they’re fled.
12. REAIA INS OF
When first I enter'd on this active stage,
A weighty subject did my thoughts engage, --
'Twas happiness, refin’d from all alloy,
That I desir'd forever to enjoy.
The foll'wing train of thoughts in order rose,
And thus decided what my soul should choose.
“Free agency is given now to me,
To seek my happiness I now am free;
And happiness is all I can obtain,
The sum of every good that I can gain.
What shall I do to gain this wish’d for prize 3
To perfect happiness how shall I rise 2
Of all the heights to which I can aspire,
h which is laid the jewel I desire 2
The joys of earth before me do display
Illusive glories and deceptive day;
Wealth, pleasure, fame, and honour, all appear
As if design'd my wavto guide and cheer.
But will these glories that appear so bright,
Beyond this world give a directing light?
Or will they last but thm o' this mortal space,
And leave of happiness no ling’ring trace 2
For here on earth, my hopes have not a rest,
My soul aspires to be forever blest.
Nay : all these glories death will surely end,
Beyond this world no joy they e'er can lend :
But joys of heaven seem more serehely bright,
They seem to give a more abiding light.
Cannot these joys be also earn’d as free,
And taken with an equal liberty?
They can be gain’d—but never without cost;
If these are gain'd, those surely must be lost.
“Before my eyes appears the way of God,
The self-denying way that Jesus trod;
JOSEPH. A. H., SAA: PSO N. 13
Tho' steep, yet easy ; dangerous, yet sure
To save the soul that in it will endure.
I see the saints inviting me along
The blessed road, to join the holy throng,
And angels still before in glory sweet,
Receiving blessings at the Saviour's feet,
Inviting me the gospel race to run,
And every earthly tie with care to shun.
They show that no abiding good is gain'd,
Unless at some expense it is obtain’d ;
And earthly joys, how great so e'er they be.
Will not avail me in eternity.
They show that pleasures of this vale below.
Will lead the soul to future scenes of wo,
While self denial, and the cross of Christ,
Will land me on the shores of paradise.
“When, on the other hand, I turn my eyes,
Temptations bright, and scenes of joy arise;
Not at a distance, as the former case,
But near my soul, and easy to embrace ;
Enticing charms are spread before my eyes,
And tempting glories bright, and painted skies;
Delusive joys, in glitt’ring gems array'd,
Andall the glories of this world display’d.
But hold ! destruction opens to my eyes!
T}read scenes of horrour in confusion rise :
Hell's gaping gates seem, with terrifick glare,
Spread open to my view—Beware beware :
One heedless step may seal my dreadful fate;
Shun, shun th’ enticements of the tempting bait;
Ah! see the thousands now in wo enslav’d,
Who by this syren were at first deprav'd :
To evade such dire effects, O shun the cause,
As thou would'st shun the rav’nous panther's paws.
2
14 REMIA INS OF
“But leave this scene—revert again thy sight,
Behold the beauties of the realms of light :
Here, one with God, with holy angels join'd,
With saints and happy spirits close combin’d ;
Pure as the virgin gold, refin’d and tri’d,
Or as the purest light to God alli’d ;
How happy souls who've past the furnace heat,
And now rejoice and kiss their Saviour's feet !
How happyfi'd are they who’ve rent the vail,
Who fought the fight of faith, and did prevail!
In Michael's ranks they met the hosts of hell,
And stood their ground until Apollyon fell.
“Now they rejoice and join the hosts above,
Clad in white robes of everlasting love;
While heavenly purity, their souls enjoy,
And thanks and praise to God their time employ.
Redeemed from the transient snares of earth,
They join the angels in celestial mirth,
And with the hosts in paradise above,
They drink at rivers of eternal love.
No ling’ring fears can here disturb their bliss,
No absent hopes distract their happiness,
No cursed snares that Satan's power can form,
Can reach them here, or give the least alarm,
No sickness, death, or pain disturbs their joy,
No dismal clouds their comfort can annoy ;
but free from all that troubles souls on earth,
Their whole employ is songs of praise and mirth.
“O soul exalting theme ; instruct my mind
To wing my way, and leave this world behind
Towards these joys, O animate my soul;
And let the way of life my feet control
Inspire my heart with sacred fire and zeal,
That I may soar above the snares of hell
JOSEPH A. H. SAMPSON, 15
That I may scorn the fatal joys of earth,
And rise to mansions of celestial mirth.
“My soul’s enraptur'd with this blessed view ;
The charms of earth shall not my soul subdue ;
I'll choose the pleasures gained by the cross,
And leave the joys of earth as dregs and dross.
I'll throw aside all ties that intervene,
To stop my progress to this blissful scene;
And boldly steer thro’ every adverse tide,
Till safe I land on yonder happy side.”
These resolutions I did firmly take,
Resolv’d each adverse tie to cut or break :
I enter’d on the course that I had chose,
And hell’s unguarded forces did oppose.
The god of hell discover'd my design,
And all his powers in mischief did combine;
They in intrigue malignant did unite,
And mask'd their leader with a veil of light.
In that appearance, he address'd my soul,
And did attempt my actions to control ;
In beauteous hues his glories he display’d,
And all his joys before me, he array'd :
“These beauties all, said he, you shall enjoy,
Nor pain nor trouble shall your bliss annoy,
If you will worship me. Behold I reign
O'er all lands, the islands and the main ;
All mations of the earth before me bow :
Come and enjoy the pleasures I allow.”
“Infernal tempter.” boldly I repli’d,
“Your cursed ways of darkness I’ve deny'd :
Your heitish charms will end in pain and wo;
They are the doors which lead to realms below.
Beyond these pleasures I discover pain ;
How shortindeed they are and O, how vain
| 5 R EMAINS OF
Soon mis’ry, pain, and sorrow, seize the soul.
And hellish torments on the victims roll,
No comforts there by souls are ever ſound,
But dismal sorrow and despair abound.
Then what avails the bliss of temp'ral joy,
Which they did once so uncontrol’d enjoy
Can pleasures past afford a soul relief,
From present tribulation, wo, and grief?
Depart, then, Satan, all thy gold is dross,
And all thy pleasures sorrow and remorse.”
My mind remains established in this choice,
And in this holy way I will rejoice,
True to my king, I never will desert,
Nor let the bribes of sin my steps divert;
But stand the test, while strength and life remain.
And never flinch, till I the vict'ry gain.
With true submission, to th’ anointed lead,
In Zion's ranks I straitly will proceed ;
Nor turn aside for any vain delight,
Nor any tempting theme that may invite.
How foolish those who leave the way of God,
To seek for pleasure in the land of Nod
Who leave the gospel for the joys of earth,
Reject the way of God for carnal mirth !
Do they expect this transient meteor bright
Of earthly joy, will give eternal light 2
Can they suppose this momentary bliss
Superiour to eternal happiness 2
O base delusion : cursed snare of hell
Such base deceit shall not my soul impel :
I'll keep my feet within the way of God,
And never venture tow’rd the vale of Nod
Wo vain allurements shall my soul divert,
No vile temptations shall my spirit hurt :
JOSEPH A. H., SAMPSON & 17
No youthful snares shall lead my soul astray,
Nor carnal joys entice me from this way.
But not like those who foolishly desire
The joys of sin, would I to heaven aspire;—
But Abram-like, no sacrifice too great,
I'll give up all, io gain this glorious state.
Is not the case decided in my mind 2
Is not the cross the only way to find
That glorious union which my soul desires,-
That holiness which perfect heaven inpires 2
Then why should I, like one who's miss'd his track,
Resume the opp'site course, and travel back?
Or seek some path that will evade the cross,
And still redeem me from the serpent’s dross 2
Far from my soul shall be such base desires,
For nobler hopes than these, my soul aspires.
I hope to taste immortal happiness,
And feast upon more satisfying bliss,
Than earth, with all her charms, can ever give,
Or mortal man is able to conceive.
When I’m redeem'd from ev’ry feeling vain,
And perfect purity of heart attain ;-
When holiness is all I do possess,
And I am cloth'd with perfect happiness,
Clear as the noon-day sun, in cloudless days,
And brighter far than all his dazzling rays,
Shall be the light that shall my way illume,
And drive away each sorrow, and each gloom ;
Th’ effulgent light of paradise above
Will fill my rapt’rous soul with joy and love.
A warriour's armour bright my soul shall wear,
I'll be contented with a soldier's fare;--
The foes within my breast with force I’ll fight,
And break my passage º the realms of light.
2
£3. R EMAINS OF
No cursed foe, nor tempter will I fear,
!No champion dread, shall raise a standard here -
No fiend of hell, nor wicked fiend within,
Shall o'er my soul a single conquest win.
I will not yield, I'll conquer now, or die, --
For I’m resolv’d on death, or victory !
But 'tis within my warfare f must wage;
For foes without but faintly will engage,
Unless they find a trait’rous band within,
Intent to join the hellish cause of sin.
But who am I? a mortal, weak and frail :
How much expos'd to lose my strength, and fail :
Without support, how slender is my power
How much expos'd to fail this very hour !
O then, Almighty Father, hear my pray’r,
In mercy save me from each threat'ning snare ;
O give me strength to walk this blessed road,
And keep my union to the work of God.
O grant me wisdom, clothe my soul with skill,
To persevere, and do thy blessed will :
And may I still remain, while breath I draw,
In strict obedience to thy holy law.
Thy gifts divine, O may my spirit share :
For what on earth can with these gifts compare :
Not all the richest treasures on the earth;
The greatest pleasures of terrestrial mirth,
With all the joys that mortals ever try’d,
That earth affords, with all her pomp and pridc.
Can with the gifs of God compare in worth,
More than an atom, with this spacious earth.
O gracious God, my humble pray’r regard,
Ilet nought below, my heavenward steps retard;
But may I travel thro’ this mortal vale,
Toward that home where sorrows ne'er prevail'.
JOSEPH A, H. SAM PSO N. 19.
Within my heart may purity arise,
And may thy gospel fire my soul baptise ;
May gospel graces in my actions shine,
And Christ-like meekness all my words refine.
And when this wale of sorrow I've past thro’,
And bid all earthly things a long adieu,
Then, Oh my Father may feel thy love ;
Forsake me not, but waſt my soul above ;
Let me not wander in the shades of night,
But let my eyes enjoy thy holy light;
And may I find a rest, within thy blissful home,
Where solid joys abound, and sorrows never come,
SELF-EXAMINATION.
Do I believe that Christ has come,
To save men from the fall 2
Yea, all who in his footsteps run,
And love the gospel eall.
Do I believe that Christ has come,
To save men from their loss?
Yea, he doth save both old and young,
Who bear their daily cross.
Do I believe that Christ has come,
To make an end of sin 2
Yea, I believe that all who run
With him the prize sha il win.
Yea, I believe the latter day,
Which Christ shall usher in
With everlasting righteousuess,
Will make an end of sin.
Do I live up to my good faith,
In purity of mind?
“20 REMAINs of
And do I run the heavenly race,
And leave all sin behind 2
Do I feel patient, meek, and mila,
When crosses do abound 2
Do I liye pure and undefil’d,
And walk on holy ground 2
Do I abhor my nature base ?
Do I myself deny?
Do I live modest, pure, and chaste?
Do I on truth rely
Do I feel little, meek, and low 3
Do I pull down great I ?
Does sweet repentance freely flow :
Does my proud nature die?
Do I press forward with the cross
Or do I choose the rear 2
The zealous travel out of loss,
The slack behind appear.
And am I thankful for my call,
To quit a life of sin
And do I freely give up all,
That Christ may reign within 2
Do I all nations freely bless,
And wish their happiness 2
Do I make those my welcome guests,
Who live in righteousness?
And am I careful to forgive,
That I may be forgiv'n
And do I daily strive to live
A life approv'd of heaven 2
And do I labour to increase ?
Is this my blest employ?
And do I feel angelick peace,
And streams of living joy:
JOSEP II A. H. SAMIPSON . 2}.
Do I walk in the gospel light,
That by it I may see?
And do I labour day and night,
That Christ may dwell in me?
And am I thankful for these days
Which still to me remain 2
And do I show my Maker's praise,
Nor spend my time in vain?
And an I thankful night and day,
That Christ the conquest won 2
And do I learn to watch, and say,
“Father, thy will be done?”
BLESSINGS OF THE FAITH FUL
O, thou everlasting Maker,
Fountain of eternal good,
Grant that I may be partaker,
Of thy pure and holy food.
O what goodness is required
To bring forth unspotted fruit {
By thy holiness inspired,
Sons of God without rebuke
By a cross of self-denial,
By a pure and perfect life,
Holding fast thro’ every trial,
To the blessed gospel strife,
We can gain th’ abiding blossing,
God’s divine and saving love;
This the faithful are possessing:
None but such the gift improve.
O what great and glorious blessings,
Hely love, and sacred peace,
22 REMAINS OF
Zion's children are possessing,
With a promise of increase!
What rich treasures are unfolding,
Brighter far than Ophir's gold;
These the righteous are possessing;
But their value can't be told !
Those who're faithful in their duties,
Those who bear a perfect cross,
Are partakers of these beauties,
Heavenly joys without remorse.
Blest by the Almighty Father,
Under his protecting grace,
They rejoice and flow together,
They are fill'd with joy and peace.
Now they stand on Zion’s mountain,
With the heavenly hosts above;
They can drink the living Fountain :
They are cloth'd with purest love.
* They have comforts without measure ;
Goodness their reward ensures ;
They enjoy Salvation's treasure ;
This their righteousness secures.
NEW CREATION.
Lo we’re call’d by the gospel, in the new creation,
To leave all behind that belongs to the old ;
To be clad with the garments of regeneration,
A pure gospel union forever to hold.
To ire followers of Christ, in this last dispensation,
And to bear a full cross in the regeneration ;
To live in the warfare of truth and salvation,
From Satan's donninions forever redeem’d,
JOSEPH A. H. SAMPSON. 23
Now while sinful temptations before us are waiting,
And folly and vanity lie in the way ;
While the vain and delusive enticements of satan,
So strongly are drawing to lead us astray;
While we're beating the billows of youthful emotion,
And firmly resisting the waves of the ocean,
Let us steer thro’ the tempest with good resolution
And we shall be thankful in a future day ! 3
RESIGNATION.
I'm thankful for the gospel,
The blessed way of God;
I'm thankful for my calling
To walk the narrow road.
I’m thankful that I’m living
Now in this blessed day,
Where heavenly gifts are given,
To guide me in the way.
I'm thankful for the favour,
To bear a daily cross,
By which the soul is cleansed
From all infernal dross.
By this I find a fullness
Of every heavenly joy,
An everlasting substance
That will all sin destroy.
Tho' scenes of tribulation
Conne often to my share;
Tho' darkness does surronnd me
As much as I can bear;
Yet 'tis for my salvation,
These trials to sustain,
And in true resignation
I’ll patiently remain,
24 REMAINS OF
JHow many souls are groping
In darkness and in loss,
While I enjoy the gospel,
Salvation by the cross.
How thankful for this blessing
Ought I to be in truth,
Since I am here possessing
The gospel in my youth.
PROCLAMATION OF THE GOODNESS OF
GOD.
Written before the author was 15 years of age.
Come, all ye chosen of the Lord,
Prepare your hearts with one accord,
And let your voices echo round,
Thro' all Mount Zion's holy ground.
Proclaim the goodness of our God,
To all the nations far abroad;
And let the people all survey
The truth and justice of his way.
'Tell those who love iniquity,
Their works will follow them, and be
Their condemnation, grief, and pain,
The Just reward of wicked men.
But to the broken hearted say,
“Come out, come out, and leave the way
That leads to darkness and to loss;
Come, leave it all, and bear the cross,
“Come ye unto the way of God,
And leave the road which is so broad;
Come, take the rest that is prepar’d
For those who love and serve the Lord.”
JOSEPH A. H. SAMPSON. 25
The Lord his mercy will extend ;
His righteousness shall have no end;
His goodness will extend to all
Who do obey the gospel call.
Yea, thou art merciful, O Lord,
Thy righteousness and truth accord
Thy way is beautiful and clear,
To all who will the truth revere.
It leads to happiness and peace,
Where souls in unity increase ;
Here blooming walks and lovely seats,
Afford the righteous safe retreats.
Behold ! delusion doth extend
O'er all the earth, from end to end ;
The wicked seek a place of rest,
And pleasure in unrighteousness.
But trouble is laid up for those,
Who truth and righteousness oppose ;
There is no peace, Jehovah says,
For those who walk in wicked ways.
O Lord, we'll praise thee with a song,
For thanks and praise to thee belong,
For the redemption thou hast given,
Whereby the faithful find a heaven ;
By which a just relation can
Be found to Christ, by the new man,
Who with thy Spirit join'd, are one ;
Thou art his Father, he, thy son.
And in this union we will sing
The praises of our God and King,
To whom thanksgiving shall be given
By saints on earth, and saints in heaven.
To him the honour does belong,
His kingdom and his power are strong;
26 R EMAINS OF
And joyfully, we all may sing, ‘.
The praise of Zion's holy King.
THE CHOICE—or, objects of Love and Hatred.
While thro’ this life we onward move,
Each passing day we find
Objects of hatred and of love,
And labours for the mund.
Our love and hatred thus are form’d,
To help us on our road ;
That we may hate what is deform’d,
And love that which is good.
Each object that's held up to sight,
Good reason must decide,
Whether the thing be wrong or right,
And good from bad divide.
Whatever yields substantial bliss,
And leaves no sting behind,
My soul shall love such things as this,
On such I’ll place my mind;
But any joys, however great,
That lead me into pain,
sº. Such joys as these my soul shall hate,
And all such things disdain.
For life eternal is my choice,
And pleasure free from pain ;
I never can in things rejoice,
That yield no final gain.
That nature then that’s doom'd to hell,
My soul can never love ;
Its cursed powers I must repel,
And seek for bliss above.
For if its pleasures I partake,
JOSEPH A. II. SAMPSON. 27
4Its woes will be my fate ;
Therefore I will its ways forsake,
And all its flatt’ries hate.
I'll cast it in a burning flame,
And leave it there to die ;
Its last remains I will disclaim,
And all its wants deny.
And from each foolish, vein desire,
To be completely free,
I’ll be baptis'd with gospel fire,
And live in purity. .
BAPTISM BY FIRE.
While sacred thoughts employ my mind,
One object strikes my view,
By which the soul must be refin'd,
Or not be form'd anew.
All base sensations it destroys,
With every vain desire,
And fits the soul for endless joys—
'Tis the baptism of fire. -
This does refine our souls from dross,
And sets our spirits free ;
It reconciles us to the cross,
And makes the devil flee.
It is a soul refining fire,
All evil it destroys;
It burns up every vain desire,
And brings celestial joys.
This holy fire destroys the dregs,
But spares the oil and wine ;
Ne'er listens when the serpent begs,
But drives him to the swine.
28
REMAINS G F
It passes thro’ the stubborn field,
And leaves it all subdu'd ;
It makes the fiercest foe to yield,
And tames the tiger rude.
Baptism by water will not do,
"I'will not refine like fire :
I want to be entirely new,
Without one vain desire.
'Tis fire alone can cleanse throughout,
Make me entirely pure,
The dregs and dross purge wholly out,
And every evil cure.
O, fire of holiness divine !
Refine me with thy flame,
Till I in robes of beauty shine,
And bless God's holy name.
Search out each action, word, and thought,
Till I am quite subdu'd,
And into full subjection brought,
To all that’s pure and good.
THE HILL OF ZION.
“The hill of Zion yields
A thousand sacred sweets,
Before we reach the heavenly fields,
Or walk the golden streets.
Then let our songs abound,
Let every tear be dry ; -
We're marching thro’ Immanuel's ground.
To fairer worlds on high.” Watts,
While on this heavenly way,
What treasures do unfold:
JoSEPH A. H. SAMPSON. 29
t
The gospel in this latter day,
More rich than shining gold.
Then let us all unite,
In songs of grateful praise,
For this unfading heavenly light,
Which crowns our blissful days.
Ojoin in strains of praise,
Ye saints of God above :
And let your tuneful voices raise,
In songs of joyful love.
O let our voices sound,
The heavenly mansions thro’,
While we upon Immanuel's ground,
All evil foes subdue.
Thus shall we dwell with God,
Upon Mount Zion's Hill,
And keep the road our Saviour trod,
And do his heavenly will.
So let us travel on,
And never turn aside ;
Thus with the pure and heavenly throng
We ever may abide.
MORTIFYING GOSPEL.
Hail, thou mortifying Gospel !
Which the cruel tempter binds ;
Let thy gifts possess my bosom .
Let thv blessings fill my mind ;
Grant me overcoming power,
To be hourly on my guard :
In thy sweet victorious bower.
Give me liſe to sºye the Lord.
3.
#EMAINS OF
Grant thy power and quick’ning spirit.
That in truth I may proceed;
Then my works shall surely merit
Blessed Jesus’ love indeed.
O thou loving, holy Saviour,
In thy self-denying road,
May I run, and keep forever
Every blessed gift of God.
BLESSED GOSPEE,.
Blessed gospel of salvation,
How I love thy saving power .
Fill my soul with consolation,
Guard me in each trying hour.
Clothe my spirit with thy blessing,
And protect me with thy grace,
While thy union I'm possessing,
While 1 run the heavenly race.
Zion's treasures, how inviting !
O my soul, secure a share ;
Of these precious gifts delighting,
Make thyself a worthy heir.
Zealous be to keep thy union,
And thy duty to perform ;
Strive to join that strong communioa.
Which will stand the rudest storm.
See the saints in love uniting :
Fervant in the works of God;
In their motions how delighting !
Freed from every sluggish clod.
See each faithful soul engaged :
Breaking every,band away :
5 OSEPH A. H. SA AIPSON. § {
Joyful that the war is waged,
Zealous every foe to slay.
See them cloth'd in robes of beauty :
See them arm'd with zeal and love :
All engaged in their duty,
Pressing on to realms above.
ficar them sing celestial praises :
See them join the hosts of bliss:
See them sit in heavenly places,
Fill'd with goodness, joy, and peace,
O my soul, awake! be joyful,
Labour for more life and zeal :
Gospel zeal I know is lawful :
O what transports I do feel !
What a prize is set before me !
Life eternal to my soul
O my God, I will adore thee,
While unnumber'd ages roll
THE AUTHOR'S EPISTLE TO HIS FATHER,
Written the day he was 17 years of age.
KIND PARENT— October 20, 1822,
Thy kind epistle of thy last birth day,
I have receiv'd—and gladly would repay
In thanks—and faithfully and strictly keep
Thy precious counsel, and instruction reap.
As I’m admonish’d by a father’s care,
To be more strictly watchful, lest I mar
My precious calling, I will daily pray,
That I may keep still in this holy way.
O what a blessed privilege I have
In truth to grow, in purity tº live :
32 REMAINs of
If my protection I preserve unstain'd,
By holding fast what I’ve already gain'd
By faithfully improving every day,
To gain more power within this holy way,
And freely live to God, and die to sin,
That satan may not claim a seat within,
I shall in future ages reap the gain ;
A full reward for all my works obtain.
O grant me wisdom give me strength, O Lord!
That I may always keep thy holy word.
Thy wisdom, that I ever may refuse
The evil, and the precious good may choose :
Thy strength, to win the victºry, and endure -
Thro' all temptations, steadfast, firm, and sure.
When I behold the contrast which is seen
*Twixt heavenly comforts, and the joys of sin,
I am amaz'd that any soul can choose
To taste of these, when they have tasted those.
Then let me choose th' abidiug treasure dear,
While to me 'tis presented, while so near ;
Let me forever walk the narrow way,
And in my present duty live each day:
Then the abiding treasure I shall gain,
And heav'nly comforts shall my soul obtain.
Not comforts which the wicked do desire ;
Nor pleasures which the carnal mind inspire;
But comforts which the righteous do enjoy,
And pleasures unconfus'd, replete with joy,
Which flow in endless streams from heaven above,
To ſaithful souls who live in endless love.
How many thousands in this world I see,
Who're doomed to live a life of misery :
No light to steer by, no direction given,
But into Satan's host they daily leaven
JOSE P.H. A. H. SAMPSON. 38
While they no solid comforts here can gain,
While they no lasting treasure can obtain,
In Zion's mansion I enjoy a place,
Where I can see the lime of heaven’s grace.
Here great Jehovah is by mortals found,
Here is a golden chain encircling round :
The blessed rules and orders that are given,
Are links of this blest chain, the chain of heaven,
I will in Christ forever faithful stand,
Obedient I will be to each command,
And in subjection to each gift of God,
I will forever walk the narrow road.
Submissive I’ll subject, and bear the cross,
Till I am quite redeem'd from nature's loss;
And thro’ my life, this comfort shall remain,
The blessed cross of Christ shall in me reign.
Tho' tribulation may like billows roll,
And desolation prey upon the soul;
‘Tho' turbid waters thro’ this vale may flow,
And thorns and briars, without roses grow ;
This sweet companion shall my spirit cheer,
And give me strength again to persevere.
As I advance, beyond time's clouds, arise
Sublimer regions and serener skies.
I'll treasure up each precious gift of God,
That's given to guide me in the narrow road;
For if I do these blessed gifts improve,
They’ll bear me up, while onward I do move.
They’ll be a light—a mark—by which to steer,
While in this blessed way I persevere.
And while each gift in Zion I regard,
And every order strictly keep unmar’d,
I gain a prize that's choicer far than gold,
Which nought but faithfulness can gain or hold
34 R EMA INS OF.
But, to obtain this blessed crown so dear,
I must reject all ties that bind me here;
My mind on things eternal Imust place,
That when on earth I’ve run this mortal race,
I may obtain a rest in heaven above,
And live forever in eternal love.
In truth and honesty I will proceed,
In resignation to th’ anointed lead;
Be reconcil’d and thankſul for each gift
They have for me, to give my soul a lift,
And in subjection and obedience grow,
Till I have served out my time below.
Then I can find my union and my peace,
And in this true obedience find increase ;
And thankful I shall be, when time's no more,
That I my union kept with those before :
Yea, I shall bless the day when I was call’d,
By the blest Gospel, to forsake this world;
Bless thee, my father, for thy timely care,
To place me in this blessed mansion fair,
Where I am sav'd from nature's doleful loss,
And learn the lesson of a daily cross,
Whereby the enmity in me is slain,
And pure and solid comforts I obtain.
Yea, I repeat it, I will ever be
Obedient, watchful, prayr'ful, kind, and free ;
Bear a full cross against all sin and pride,
And from the narrow way ne'er turn aside.
This I’m determin'd on, this is my choice,—
And this is that in which I do rejoice.
“Nor heights, nor depths,” shall turn my soul aside.
But in this blessed way I will abide.
Tho’ death should rage, and all the powers of hell
Against my soul should raise th’ infernal yell;
JOSEPH A. H. SAMPSO N. 35
Tho' all the powers of satan's armed host
Of men and devils, should my soul accost,
Yet I am still invulnerable here,
Nor do I all their cursed fetters fear,
And their enticing, soul subduing charms,
Can never win my soul, nor do me harm.
For here, I see, the way is clear and plain ;
Then nothing shall prevent, the prize to gain ;
I'll give up all, to gain the promis'd rest,
That I may live in blessing—and be blest.
But yet this heavenly prize I can't obtain,
Unless by true submission I can gain
The union, love, and blessing of my lead,
In ev'ry thought, and ev'ry word and deed.
What if the tree against the roots should rise 2
Or if the branches should the trunk despise 2
What if the new born twig should rise and say
Unto the branch, I have no need of thee 3
Just as absurd, should I my Elders slight,
Or speak or think against th’ anointed light ;
Just as absurd, for me to rise and boast,
That I alone could slay th’ infernal host.
Unless I’m join’d unto my heavenly lead,
And in its gifts and blessing do proceed ;
Unless I keep each gift of God that’s given,
And in submission strive to find my heaven,
I strive in vain the tempter to destroy,
In vain Istrive the gospel to enjoy.
Then I'll respect the order that's before,
Of those who’ve travel'd and experienc'd more :
To them. I am indebted for their care,
It is to them, I owe my privilege here ;
It will be many years ere I’ve obtain’d
To that degree of travel they have gain'd,
36 REMAINS OF
And many years, should I unfaithful prove,
Would not repay their kindness and their love.
I cannot close, until I first express
My feelings of unfeigned thankfulness,
For all the favours I’ve receiv'd from thee,
And all the kindness thou hast shown to me.
When I was under thy immediate care,
No pains nor labour didst thou ever spare,
For my instruction in each virtuous grace,
Till thou did'st set me in this happy place ;
For which I kindly thank thee from my heart,
And pray that I may hold the wiser part,
And cheerfully and thankfully obey,
Th’ anointed gift that holds me on the way:
Respect my loving Elder Brethren dear,
And all my Elder Sisters too revere:
For ’tis thro’ them that l must fear the Lord,
Who many years have kept his holy word.
Then when, on earth, my mortal race is run,
And when th' appointed work on earth I've done,
In heaven above, my soul shall find a rest,
Among the saints, in robes celestial dress'd :
Thºrl, with a grateful heart, I will adore
My blessed, heavenly Parents evermore.
JOSEPH.
.4t her request, he composed the following for his sis.
ter, the day she was 20 years of age.
JANUARY 20th, 1823.
O, all my loving gospel friends,
Accept this tribute which is due *
To you ; for all your kindness blends
My heart in sweetest love to you.
JOSEPH. A. H. SAM PSON. 3?
Take what my youthful powers can give,
My thanks for all your pains with me ;
With resolutions that I’ll live
Free from offence, from grudges free.
In thankfulness, I humbly pray,
To me your kindness may remain ;
And if, in any wise, I stray,
Remind me of my lack again.
And I will freely condescend,
And simply will acknowledge it;
And thankfully I will amend,
When any errours I commit.
Perfection is the present gift,
Of which I mean to take a share,
To give my soul another lift,
And help resist each tempting snare.
When youthful follies spread their charms,
And vanity in shining dress;
This gift will guide me free from harm,
Within the path of righteousness.
HORROUR'S OF HELL, & JOYS OF HEAVEN.
Infernal and curs'd is the king of temptation,
Inspiring his subjects with horrid delight :
This terrible monster of sin and damnation,
Resides in the vaults where is unceasing night.
What horrible murmurs, what hellish invectives,
What direful reproaches the devils there vent :
What dismal vexation, in this sad perspective,
Where all upon actions of evil are bent.
How painful, how loathsome, and dreadful the
SOrr OW
4
38 REMAINS OF
In hell’s awful dungeons of darkness is found !
Excruciating forments, and terrible horrour,
Where legions of devils forever surround.
These torments, so dreadful,remain without ceasing:
No interval 's found when the horrours abate:
Continual torment each moment increasing ;
No language is able the scene to relate.
O could any creature of mortal creation,
Behold the dread features exhibited there,
The sight is so woful, they’d die with vexation,
*Tis more than a mortal is able to bear.
But what is the sight of a scene of affliction,
Compar'd with the horrour of feeling its pangs 2
There souls have to suffer the direful correction
Of tortures, inflicted by terrible fangs.
No pains that are felt upon earth can be equal ;
No pleasures can balance the torments of hell:
Earth’s pleasures are short, but eternal the sequel,
Where horrours are found that no mortal can tell.
How small is the comfort afforded by pleasure,
When fatal experience has found the result:
How dreadful the sorrow, pour’d out without meas-
tlre,
On those who in pleasures of earth do exult:
Not so with the comforts of heavenly enjoyments ;
These pleasures are solid, eternal, and sure;
The certain result of celestial employments,
From every defilement essentially pure.
How blessed and pure is the angels' communion,
Where all can unite, who have borne a full cross |
In comforts delighting, in love and pure union,
Delights that are free from all pain and remorse.
The comforts of holiness, daily increasing,
(While hell and confusion all sinners confound)
Jose PHA. H. SAMPson; 39
Will be to the righteous ineffably pleasing,
While heavenly blessings are flowing around.
What comfort,what glory,what permanent pleasure:
No syren can show such enduring delights;
Why then should we sell this unfading, rich treasure,
For earthly enjoyments, and lose our birth right 2
O flee from this syren, this soothing deceiver,
That tempts you to parley with legions of sin .
Fly, fly, for your life for the sooner you leave her,
The sooner you're able the conquest to win :
And greater will be the blest, glorious treasure,
Prepar'd for the final and certain reward
Of those, who, in faithfullness, make their best
pleasure
Consist in the service and will of the Lord.
NO CROSS-NO CROWN.
“Eaccept a man deny himself, take up his cross, and
follow me ; he cannot be my disciple.”—CHRIST.
How did the Saviour live on earth?
How did he find the second birth 2
What were his habits, what his cross,
How did he rise from nature’s loss?
Did Jesus live in pomp and pride,
With trembling vassals at his side 2
Did he command mankind to slay,
And murder thousands in a day ?
Nay ; mercy, love, and peace divine,
In all his holy precepts shine ;
And ev'ry hostile, warlike deed,
His rospel strictly does forbid
40
REMAINS OF
*
Or did he revel, and delight
To feast on pleasure day and night,
And to repose on beds of down 2–
Say, did he thus obtain his crown 2
Or did he preach for mammon's sake,
And by the Gospel money make
Or was the labour of his soul,
To spread his fame from pole to pole *
Nay: he’d another theme in view ;
His Father’s will he sought to do;
No other pleasure he desir’d ;
No other wish his soul inspir’d.
With patience and humility,
He suffer'd ev’ry injury;
Bore ev’ry scorn with peace divine,
And to his Father did resign.
What was his counsel to the great,
Whose sideboards shone with costly plate?
“Sell all thou hast, and give away—
Take up thy cross and follow me.”
Professing christian, search your heart;
See if you act this Christ-like part:
See if you daily watch and pray
To be within this narrow way.
See if you do yourself deny,
And if you love your enemy;
See if the Saviour's cross you bear,
And with his life your own compare.
A perfect life in him we see :
And we like him are call'd to be.
Professing christian, can you say,
You follow him both night and day :
JOSEPH A. H. SAMPSO iſ, 4 {
Is he the pattern of your ways 2
Or do you strive yourself to please ?
Say, have you yet your life laid down 2
And does your cross deserve a crown 3
If not, how can you hope to wear
The shining crown of those who bear
A faithful cross from day to day,
And ev'ry sinful passion slay 2
Or can you ever hope to find
That pow'r of God, that peace of mind,
Which will all sin and death destroy,
And fill the soul with endless joy:
The voice of reason answers may—
None but the faithful, who obey
The Saviour's voice, and bear his cross,
Shall ever travel from their loss,
Nor gain that pure immortal rest,
With which the righteous will be bless'd,
Where angels dwell in love divine,
And saints in heav'nly glory shine.
HOPE, THE GREATEST CONSOLATION,
Probably written during his last sickness.
How dark, alas ! this world appears :
O what a dread and dismal scene .
A catalogue of gloomy years—
A book of sorrow and of spleen :
O, great Creator, why is this?
Why do thy creatures thus remain,
O'erwhelm'd within this dread abyss
Of sin and death, diºse and pain
4 -
# EMAINS OF
Can we no balm in Gilead find &
Is there no balsam here below 2
Is there no cordial for the mind,
That will assuage the tears of wo
Each earthly joy is spoil’d by pain;
Each present comfort spoil’d by care;
And life but seems one dreary plain,
One scene of sorrow and despair :
Protecting angels, O, befriend, ,
And cheer me with your blissful rays:
When shall my sorrows have an end ?
When shall I see more happy days?
Is there no ray to cheer my soul?
ls there no lamp to light my way?
Is there no comfort to console
My spirit, and illume my day 2
Methinks I see a radiant light
On yonder orient skies to shune;—
The gloomy clouds are ting’d with white,
And lighten’d with a ray divine.
Some blessed star illumes the east ;
Some radiant image does arise ;--
Ah! 'tis the harbinger of peace .
'Tis hope that meets my weeping eyes.
Bright as the sunbeams liquid blaze,
That shines across the orient plain,
Or as th’ advance of summer's days,
Reviving nature's charms again.
The blest advance of guardian hope
Protects my footsteps from despair,
Revives my spirits when they droop,
And future bliss relieves my care,
j OSEPH A. H. SAMPS @ N. 4.
By thee alone, celestial hope,
[in my duty persevere :
'Tis thou that keep'st my spirits up,
'Tis thou that dost my journey cheer.
'Tis thou that show'st me future bliss,
And full reward for ev’ry pain; -
Thou show'st me worlds more blest than this,
Where I a paradise may gain.
In this uncertain vale below,
No joy can ever reach my heart,
Except the bliss thou dost bestow ;
Then never—never hence depart;
But still continue thine abode
In this aspiring breast of mine :
Thy presence smooths life's rugged road ;
O let me feel thy bliss divine!
When raging storms around contend,
And angry billows o'er me roll ;
When ev'ry joy seems at an end,
And nothing can my heart console ;--
O then, extend thy cheering beams :
Be thou my succour from despair :
Revive my spirit with thy gleams,
And bid me of thy blessings share :
Or, if in glooms of sunless days,
My soul despondent does despair,
And death-like sorrow o'er me preys,
Till Irelinquish ev'ry care ;
Then let thy light the clouds dispel;
Then cause my misery to cease ;
These dismal glooms despatch to hell,
And bless my spirit with thy peace.
44 R EMA INS OF
Thus shall I soar to realms of love,
The charms of earth I shall despise ;
But find superiour bliss above,
And to complete perfection rise.
•Most probably the following was written under an ap.
prehension of the near approach of death.
Sure, this earth's a scene of sorrow !
Nothing here can I desire;
*Tis a scene of dismal horrour;
To another I aspire.
O, abode of holy spirits,
Mansion of the good and pure,
Let my weary soul inherit
Thy dear beauties, clean and sure,
All on earth I have rejected,
All material things forsook :
May my spirit be protected,
May my soul endure the shock;
Leave me not, protecting Father!
Save my spirit from despair :
To thy fold my wishes gather,
And direct me by thy care.
The following is the Epistle from his Father, alluded
to in page 31.
TO JOSEPH SAMPSON.
12th mo. 23, 1821.
Gay youths, unus’d to sufferings, grief, and wo,
From more experience oft should seek to know
How they should ponder well their slipp'ry way,
Nor from the counsels of the wise to stray.
Jose PH A. H. SAMPSON. 45
Think not, my son, it is from any fear
That those, who have of thee immediate care,
Will not perform their duty, and thee teach
The way by which thou’lt heaven and glory reach,
That I do now address thee: nay I would *
Advise thee, treasure up the precious good
Thy Elders deal to thee, line upon line;—
Thus shalt thou in truth's lovely image shine.
But as a father kind, or brother dear,
I would entreat thee, lend a list’ning ear,
While I my heart would open, and advise
My son, my brother, how he may be wise.
I in my early childhood wisdom sought,
And would at any price pure wisdom bought;
But ah, alas! for me and other youth,
Led by blind guides who did not know the truth,
Rank folly's weeds sprang up within my heart,
And kept me from the precious truth apart.
Here pause, my son, and, in kind sympathy,
A pitying tear drop, while I weep with thee,
The gloomy lot of children, bright and fair,
Who, in a world of sin, are every where
Led on in satan’s broad flesh-pleasing road,
Without the knowledge, and the light of God;—
Here let thy heart expand with gratitude,
That 'tis thy privilege to shun that road;
That to God's holy Mountain thou hast come,
And may in Zion fix thy happy home.
My heart with thine, thou mayest freely take,
And to thy Saviour thy thank-offering make.
Does thy heart pant for knowledge 2 and thy voice
For wisdom cry 2—It is a happy choice:
Far more than gold we wisdom should prefer ;
And silver is but dross compar'd to her,
46 ~. . REMAINS OF
Know then, my son, this first important truth;
Ilong to have it fixed in thy youth :
However much book-knowledge thou obtain,
However much of human wisdom gain,
Thy wisdom all to foolishness must grow,
Unless the fear of God thou learn to know.
Learn then this lesson, learn to fear the Lord,
Learn strict obedience to his holy word;
His holy word of faith, migh, in thy heart,
O learn to heed, and never from 1t part.
Here is a substance —here is solid ground !
Here is ihe place where all true wisdom's found.
The fear of God, if duly learn'd when young,
Will regulate the actions, thoughts, and tongue;
And never evil will that person do,
Who’s duly learn'd the fear of God to know.
With all thy gettings then, my son, get this,
For the first step to wisdon true it is.
O wateh thy thoughts, thy words, and actions too,
And what thou knowest is wrong, O dare not do
Above all pleasures learn to please the Lord ;
Above all keepings keep his holy word,
Safe in thy heart, pure, holy, undefit’d ;
Obey it simply, like a little child.
Which shall thee govern; thy own carnal ways?
Or wilt thou strive thy Maker God to please ?
Shall God's pure spirit govern thee, and rule 2
Or wilt thou choose thy own, and be a fool :
Come fixthy purpose —fix it firm and strong !
I’m confident my son will not choose wrong:
I’m confident he'll choose the narrow way,
And learn while young the Gospel to obey.
Strongly I hope he’ll fully fix his heart
To follow Truth, and never from it part :
JOSEPH A. H. SAM PSON, 47
Thus shalt thou glad my heart, yea, even mine,
That thou hast made pure, heavenly wisdom thine.
God's holy word of wisdom in thee keep,
And thou shalt by it pure instruction reap.
At home—-abroad—by day—as well as night,
Keep in thy heart this pure unerring light.
Safe in God's holy name, a tower how strong :
O keep thy soul, and boldly march along,
Nor fear the mighty powers of earth and hell;
For here thy soul shall be invulnerable.
But thou, must constant watch, and constant pray,
Tº keep thy soul still in this holy way.
All self-exalting thoughts put far away;--
To honour God thy constant labour he ;
Keep peace within, and O, with all thy might,
Keep peace without, with all that’s just and right.
With all th’ influence thou shalt e'er possess,
Labour to spread the happy reign of peace :
In God's pure charity, feel love to all,
Or friends, or foes, who're on this earthly ball.
Behold a world in ruins! see what love
Did the kind, pitying, holy Saviour move :
He took our sicknesses, our sorrows bore,
And did for man what none could do before.
See Mother labour for the human race,
That they might learn the way of truth and grace,
Let's labour for their spirit—let us pray
That sin and human woe may pass away :--
Our thoughts, our words, our actions, tend to this,
To lessen human woe, increase its bliss.
Once I was young, but now azed have grown,
And many sorrowing days my south As known.
I can look back and very plainly sº e,
That sin has caused all my misery.
48 RTEMIA INS 6 F
O had I now my life to live anew, -
And had the privilege and youth of you,
A goodly treasure could my soul lay up,
In faith and love, in zeal and holy hope:
And my best wishes are, that youth may prize
Their privilege in the gospel, and be wise.
How do I sorrow, when I any see
Among our youth, who still will foolish be!
How do I joy, when other precious youth,
I see improve their time, and love the Truth !
Cleave to the Truth, my son, cleave to the Cross,
And let not any gift of God be lost.
Thy Elders labour, with a fervant zeal,
That with the precious youth it may be well:
The faithful all unite with them, and pray
That lovely youths may keep the narrow way.
O could they feel, what oft for them I feel,
How quick would they renounce their selfish will,
IIow quickly would they learn the fear of God!
How constant would they walk the narrow road
My Saviour, hear my prayer for precious youth !
O may they learn the way of heavenly truth !
O may they grow in wisdom's pleasant ways,
And fear, and love, and serve thee, all their days :
Their work well done on earth, O them receive
In thy blest mansions evermore to live.
There may my Joseph be among the rest,
‘Forever blessing, and forever blest :’—
There may he meet his father, brother, friend,
Where grief and suffering shall forever end.
PROCTER.
SHORT ACCOUNT
OF THE
DEATH OF POLLY LAWRENCE.
--tº-
SINCE I have been with the people cailed Sha-
kers, I have been asked, how the subjects of this
work appeared to feel when they came to die?-1
have seen several of these people leave the body,
and in every instance, they appeared to me, to de-
part in peace.
We do not make so much of these things as some
seem to do. Our hope of a state of perfect happi-
ness with God is, in having every thing destroyed in
our souls that is contrary to the nature of God.-
This must be effected by “the baptism of the Holy
Ghost, and of fire”—-the one soul-saving-baptism
which John so pointedly distinguished from his wa-
ter-baptism. The kingdom of God within us,
which is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy
Ghost, is the Heaven which our faith induces us to
labour for ; and to know the blood, or life, of Je-
sus Christ to cleanse us from all sin, is all the evi-
dence we wish to gain that we shall be finally ad-
mitted into the perfect rest of God.”
*This little work was nearly printed before this
account was written. Had it been sooner thought
of, it might have been more interesting, by extracts
from some of her writings, and the inspection and
assistance of some of her friends more capable than
the writer. The account was drawn up from the
Testimonies of those who were with her during her
last illness and death ; and the expressions set
down exactly as she uttered them, where they were
clearly recollected, by those who heard them,
5
50 I} EATH OF
Polly LAwRENCE,--the subject of the following
Memoir, was born at New-Lebanon, the 24th of 7th
month, 1792. She was an Orphan when she came
to live with Believers. Her father died when she was
6 years of age. Her mother, who lived near the
New-Lebanon Springs, about two miles from Be-
lievers, received faith in the Testimony of Christ's
second appearing, several years before she died :
but, unwilling to renounce her union with the
world, and to take upon her the yoke of Christ, she
had refused to yield to her convictions, till she was
brought upon her death-bed. She then acknowl-
edged her faith ;—confessed her sins ;-desired to
be buried with Believers; and requested that her
children might be brought up among the people.—
Her oldest son, then an apprentice in a store at
New-Lebanon, did not choose to come among the
people. IHer other three children, immediately af.
ter her death, came to live with them. Polly was
then in her 12th year.
From the first of her coming among the people,
she manifested bright intellects, and a fervent la-
bour of spirit for the power of Good ; and her con-
duct, from that time to her death, was exemplary.—
She proved, by her deportment, that it was her
choice to follow her Saviour in the regeneration ;
and, for the joy set before her, endure the cross,
and despise the shame, as he did, till she was made
perfect through sufferings, as he was.
She was in her 20th year, when I came into the
Society ; and by living in the same family, I had an
opportunity to know what manner of spirit she was
of. Although so young, she then seemed like a
mother to me; and she ever after felt so to me till she
Adied. Her countenance was beautiful; her under-
POLI, Y LAWRENCE. 51
standing superiour to almost any woman of her age
with whom I have been acquainted ; but her chief
loveliness was the benevolent, meek, and quiet spir-
it, with which she was so evidently adorned.
When she was 22, she had a place of care assign-
ed her; the duties of which she fulfilled to the sat-
isfaction of Believers: and for the most of her time
after, she filled places of trust and care, in which
she evidently conducted with wisdom and integrity.
When the Believers in these parts began to settle
at Sodus-bay, she was judged a suitable person to
be first in care among the females, in spiritual
things. Accordingly she removed, with the others
who came from New-Lebanon to Port-bay, last 5th
month.
Her holy example –her understanding and wis-
dom ; her kindness, love, and affection ; her fer-
vent and incessant labours for the good of souls,
won the love and esteem of the Society here : and
candid persons who were not of the Society, express-
ed their love and respect for her.
Some who were with her during her last illness,
told me, they thought they never before saw any
person manifest such perfect fortitude and patience.
She had mentioned to several, for some months
previous to her sickness, that it was strongly im-
pressed on her mind, that she had but a short time
to live. The week immediately preceding her
lastillness she assisted in the kitchen. As she came
up stairs, after finishing her work there, the evening
before she was taken ill, she repeated the words,
“Well do.1e, good and faithful servant.” One pres-
sent, who did not belong to the Society, said, “It
must hºp a great cunsolation to any one, to feel that
they have doñº heir duty.” Polly replied, “Yae
it is,” She timen said she felt an uncommon happi.
52 DEATH OF
ness in a consciousness of having done her duty :
and that she felt an evidence that her work was di-
vinely approbated. The sister to whom she spoke
this, said, she thought she never before had seen
her so lively, cheerful, and happy. In meeting, that
evening, her voice in singing was uncommonly
strong and melodious ; and she manifested exceed-
ing joy. Some who saw her in meeting, said, they
never before saw a human countenance clothed
with such brightness;–and that she appeared an-
gelick and heavenly.
Next morning, Sabbath, the day she was taken
ill, she accompanied the nurse of the family part
of the way, to visit a sick child in another family.—
When she came back, she mentioned that on her
return, she heard a voice speak to her, “Well done,
good and faithful servant;” and appeared exceed-
ingly joyful. To a sister, whose daughter had that
morning confessed her sins, and united with us, she
said, “I feel to praise God for you—I feel to re-
joice; and I want you to labor for the power of God.”
So great a company came to meeting that day, it
was thought advisable to go to the woods. Believ-
ers marched into the woods, singing as they went.
Here they formed a circle, the congregation sur-
rounding them—sung several songs, and several
testimonies were borne to the world. As they
marched back, the following was sung, which was
the last of the many songs Polly composed.
“The rolling deep may overturn ;
“The vallies sink, the mountains burn ;
“But thou, my soul, shall firmly stand,
“Supported by God's righteous hand,
“To thee, O Lord, my thanks I give ;
“'Tis by thy holy faith I live :
POLLY LA WR ENCE.
5
3
“My life I freely have laid dowm,
“To bear the Cross, and wear the Crown.”
Her voice in singing was usually loud; and it
has been remarked by numbers who heard her, that
they thought she excelled any person they ever
heard. In singing this song, her voice was uncom-
monly strong and melodious. Before the company
arrived at the house, she was suddenly and violent-
ly seized with bilious Colick. The people stopped
outside the house,_again sung, and much was spo-
ken. The Elder who led the meeting, spoke to
Polly to take the sisters in, thinking they must be
fatigued ; upon which they followed her into the
house. Soon she began to vomit, and indicated, by
wringing her hands, severe pain ; which increased
till it appeared excessive. About inidnight she was
put into a warm bath, by which her pain abated.—
She expressed, very feelingly, her thankfulness; and
was very cheerful and pleasant. . She was unwil-
ling to have a physician, seeming confident that she
could not be benefitted thereby. About noon, the
day after she was taken ill, she consented that her
brother Garrett, who is a physician among the peo-
ple at New-Lebanon, should be sent for ; and he
was written for immediately. That evening, to sat-
isfy the feelings of her friends, she consented that
Doctor Lewis, of Clyde, should be sent for. He
came about 5 next morning, and administered med.
icine, but it had no salutary effect.
Tuesday evening, she expressed her full belief
that she must die ; her pain having left her, and an
uncommon coldness ensuing. She desired all from
the East to come in, as she wished to converse with
them before she departed;—spoke to them with
much affection, and exhorted all to be faithful ; said
she felt more at leaving them on their account, than
- 5% -
54 BEATH OF
on her own ; laboured to comfort them ; said she
felt confident that her death would tend to the in-
crease of the Gospel in these parts;–desired them
to sing the little anthem, “Come, good angels, guard
around me,” &c. and sung with them, with life and
power. One asked her, what they should tell her
brother Garrett —She replied, “Tell him, I die re-
joicing in the God of my salvation.” Many were
the endearing expressions she made use of, to those
about her : thanking all, very feelingly for whatev-
er they did for her. “The Gospel,” said she. “ is
my only treasure : and nothing on this earth do I
love equal to my brothers and sisters,”
Some of the young Believers coming in, she spoke
to them individually, according to their states. To
one who had been called to bear a publick testimo-
ny, she said, “you are the first that set out in the
Gospel here.” Then exhorted him to be faithful ;
and looking him in the face, said “you must preach
the Gospel like a flaming Herald, through this land.
Tell them it is the Testimony of Truth.” To an-
other she said, “well dome, good and faithful ser-
yant. Thou hast done well. Press on in obedi-
ence to your faith—it does overcome the world.”—
Exhorted the youths to be faithful, and endure to the
end ; and charged them always to pay a strict re-
gard to truth in all their words. Called Dr. Lewis
to her bed-side, and, very pleasantly looking in his
face, said, “well, doctor, my dissolution appears to
be near. The dissolution of the body is what we
have all got to meet with. But death is no terrour
to me. I can say, O death where is thy sting 2 O
grave, where is thy victory :"... The doctor was
much affected, went into an adjoining room, and
1emarked, “ what a consolation it is to see a fellow
Being depart this life with such confidence in God
P&LLY LAWRENCE's êd
—with such composure : What a comfort to survi-
ving friends !”—and said, he never before saw any
person die with such confidence and composure.
After her death, he was heard to say, that he never
saw the death of the righteous before.
Some of the young sisters expressing an unwil-
lingness to part with her, she said, “I must go ;—
and if you have seen any good in me, you may copy
my example.” To one and another, she spoke al-
most constantly till her breath left the body : Seem-
ed dissatisfied at seeing any one cast down, and ex-
horted them to be cheerful : saying, “ Brethren and
Sisters, I want you to be cheerful —Come, Breth-
ren and Sisters, I want you all to be cheerful. Do
not mourn for me: I have done my work, and there
is a crown for me.”
A little before she departed, she asked for a cup
of cold water to be given her in the name of a Dis-
ciple, of which she drank ; took some of the breth-
ren and sisters by the hand ; thanked them for all
the kindness they had shown her; and exhorted
them to be kind, pleasant, and condescending to
each other. -
About two weeks before she was taken ill, after
singing a short funeral anthem, she said, very pleas-
antly, “I shall want you to learn this, and sing it
at my funeral.” About fifteen minutes before she
departed, one of the sisters said, “ she feared they
had not learnt the anthem she wished to have sung
at her funeral.” Polly answered, “I do not know
that I can sing it now, but will try.” She then sung
it through quite strong, though with rather a
hollow voice.
A minute or two before her breath left the body,
she observed one of her gown sleeves was twisted.
Taking her other hand, and straightening it, shs
56 BEAT II OF
said, “every thing must become straight, both in
spiritual and temporal things.” Then laid her arms
close by her sides, the palms of her hands down ;
closed her eyes;—and made no more motion, dying,
apparently as easy as if falling asleep, at 6 o'clock
in the morning, the 2d of 8th mo. 1826—the third
day after she was taken ill, aged 34 years, and 9 days.
Her funeral was solemn and affecting. The fol-
lowing are the words of the anthem sung at her ſu-
neral, according to her desire, as above mentioned :
“How blessed are the dead that die in the Lord 1–
for they shall rest from their labours, and their works
do follow them. Brethren and Sisters, we too must
die. Let this a warning be, to every age. Then let
us all prepare to meet the solemn change.”
concIUDING RETMAREs.
WHEN I look around upon what is called the
Christian World, my heart is pained within me.—
To see a Christianity, so called, prevailing, which I
am confident is not that Christianity which Jesus
came to teach and exemplify, is cause of sorrow.
The whole of real Christianity is built upon the
work of regeneration, and the new-birth, And all
the real knowledge that any soul can have of true
Christianity is, by coming—positively, practically,
experimentally--out of darkness, into light;-out of
flesh, into spirit;--out of nature, into grace ;-out
of the dominion of the prince of this world, into sub-
jection to the Prince of Peace.
The children of this world, and the children of the
resurrection ;-the followers of the first Adam, and
the followers of the second Adam, are two distinct
orders of people ; nor can they ever be blended to-
gether by any of the false reasonings of man, “As
ÇONCLUDING B E MARKS. 57
the earthy, such they also that are earthy, and as
the heavenly, such they also that are heavenly.”
“Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which
are these ; adultery, fornication, uncleanness, las-
civiousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance,
emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envy-
ings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such
like.” All these are the works, or fruits of the flesh,
which the law condemns. They are not the flesh
itself, any more than “love, joy, peace, long-suffer-
ing, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and tem-
perance, are the spirit itself ; and if the children, or
followers of Christ have no greater cross to take up,
than to abstain from these unlawful deeds, they
might have salvation by the law; for the law con-
demns all the deeds in which the works of the flesh
are manifest. But Christ came to do “what the law
could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh.”
Therefore he took the nature of sinful flesh upon
him, with all its temptations. This nature he re-
sisted and overcame ; therefore could say to his dis-
ciples, “Be of good cheer, I have overcome the
world :” intimating that it was their privilege to
overcome also. Thus he opened the way into the
new creation of God, and said to his disciples, “ Fol-
low me.” “They that are Christ's, have crucified
the flesh, with its affections and lusts.”
“Love not the world, neither the things that are
in the world. If any man love the world, the love
of the Father is not in him :—For all that is in the
world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and
the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the
world.” Here is the world within us, which all that
are called to be Christians, must hate ; and those
who truly hate the world in themselves, cannot but
hate the werlé in others; they will have ne follow-
58 CONCLUDING REM A R RS,
ship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but will
rather reprove them. And this hatred of the world
is perfectly consistent with the greatest charity, and
most perfect good will to man. Indeed it is impos-
sible to be a complete lover of mankind without it.
It is written of the Captain of our Salvation, that
“he was made perfect through sufferings;” and,
says the apostle, “For as much them as Christ hath
suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise
with the samo mind; ſor he that hath suffered in
the flesh, hath ceased from sin; that he no longer
should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the
Husts of men, but to the will of God.”
The apostle alludes not to the outward s ue r-
ings Jesus had to pass through. These were
small in comparison with those inward sufferings he
had to endure in the crucifying of that nature he
took upon him. Being made like unto his breth-
ren whom he came to redeem, and in all points
tempted as we are, He, by keeping his union to His
Father, overcame that nature, and travelled out of
it ; leaving us an example that we should follow his
steps, and overcome as he did.
There never was, and there never will be but One
Good. “Why callest thou me good, said Jesus, there
is none good, but One, that is God,” This One undi-
vided Good was fully manifested in Jesus Christ.--
“ For in blin dwelleth all the fulness of the God-
head bodily.” This One Good dwells in every true
follower of Christ, “ For ye are the temple of the
living God ; as God hath said, I will dwell in then
and walk in then) ; and I will be theil God, and they
shall be my people.” And every faithful disciple,
who keeps a carna) mature mailed to the Cross of
Christ, till being rooted and grounded in Love,
CONCLUDING REMARKS. 56
will be able to comprehend with all saints, what is
the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and
to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowl-
edge. till he is filled with all the fulness of God.
And those, and those only, who overcome a fal-
len nature, and travel into a new, a divine nature,
by the Cross of Christ, by which they will become
crucified to the world, and the world crucified to
them, will in the end sit with Him in his throne, even
as He also overcame, and sat down with His Fath.
er in His Throne.
Beloved Professors of the Christian name, and all
3ye who have made no Profession : Among the forms
of Godliness, and systems of men, so prevalent in
this day, labour to know for yourselves, “What is
TRUTH.” If you come to a real, a living knowledge
of Truth, you will know the Truth to make you free
“ and if the Truth make you free, you shall be free
indeed”—free from the dominion of sin. You will
then know, by happy experience. that “there is no
condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus,
who walk not after the flesh, but after the spirit.”
“BE. Not DECEIVED ; GoD Is Not Mock Ed ; For
WHATSOEVER A MAN SOWETH, TIIAT shALL HE ALso
REAP : For HE THAT SOWETH To His FLESH, SHALL
OF THE FLESH REAP CORRUPTION :—BUT HE THAT
SOW ETH TO THE SPIRIT, SHALL OF THE SPIRIT REAP
LIFE EVERLASTING...”
THE ENIS),
COINTENT'S.
*=e
Preface, - *g sº tº-
Serious thoughts and resolutions,
Self-examination, * -
Blessings of the Faithful, sº
New Creation, - nº- tº-
Resignation, - <= s tº-
Proclamation, - E- v=
The Choice, - * tº- *
Baptism by fire, - tº- tº-
The Hill of Zion, - * {-º
XMortifying Gospel, - *
Blessed Gospel, - º *
Epistle to his father, - -
Lines for his sister, * - 4-
Hell and Heaven, sº sº
No Cross—No Crown, - tº-
Hope, the greatest consolation,
Near approach of Death, tº
Epistle from his father, º
Death of Polly Lawrence, *
Xoncluding Remarks, - .
tº
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