WILLIAM L.
CLEMENTS
LIBRARY
The
James
Shearer II
Fund
UNIVERSITY
OF
MICHIGAN










Scule

ABBY
HOBBONS
TE
anoddia 19gqod addis
gull 10 ODR sdt Is
NAMSSON
terbuch
1897

Ebby bopper Gibbons
at the age of fifty

LIFE OF
ABBY HOPPER GIBBONS
TOLD CHIEFLY THROUGH
HER CORRESPONDENCE
EDITED BY HER DAUGHTER
SARAH HOPPER EMERSON
VOLUME I.
G. P. PUTNAM'S SONS
NEW YORK
LONDON
27 West Twenty-third Street
24 Bedford Street, Strand
The Knickerbocker Press
1897

COPYRIGHT, 1897
BY
G. P. PUTNAM'S SONS
Entered at Stationers' Hall, London
Tbe knickerbocker Press, New York

TO
MY MOTHER'S SISTERS
SUSAN AND MARY


PREFACE.
I
N preparing this life of my mother, my aim has
been to avoid elaboration and give a picture
of her as she was,-direct, plain of speech, un-
conscious of self, sympathetic, unusually wise in
her day and generation, without guile, no respecter
of persons but seeing the good in all, just and gen-
erous,-a staff on which to lean, and a safe adviser
and friend ; so that those who knew her in life may
recognize the portrait, and strangers find in her an
illustration of the text, “Inasmuch as ye have
done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren,
ye have done it unto me."
The simplicity of her home bringing-up, and
the many trials she passed through in her journey
through life, added to the qualities inherited from
her noble father, made her what she was. Always
cheerful, always helpful, her thought was for others,
and for herself she never wanted what she did not
have. She had strong opinions, which she never
hesitated to express on occasion, and she was
equally ready to tolerate them in others.
It is to be regretted that so many of her letters
have been lost and destroyed. Scarcely one re-
mains of those addressed to her daughter Julia,
after war days; all which were written to her
brother John and his family are missing; and I
VOL. I.
V

vi
Preface
have failed to secure any fruits of the correspond-
ence of years with Miss Sedgwick, Dr. Walker,
Miss Grimké, and others.
The loving intimacy which existed between her
family and that of her brother and sister, Samuel
and Rachel Brown, and which descended to their
children and grandchildren, is not marked by let-
ters, owing to the fact that the two families lived
within daily reach of each other. Their joys and
their sorrows were shared in common.
To the many friends who have contributed to
the progress of the work by allowing me the use
of letters and in other ways, and more especially
to the few who have personally aided me in the
preparation of it for the press, I desire to record
my most grateful thanks.
To one of these my mother wrote in the year
1870, “Sit beside my children, and see to it that
they do not dwell in the shadow ; for what is
called death is the life that will bring rest."
She has been faithful to the trust.
S. H. E.

CONTENTS
PAGE
CHAPTER
1.- PARENTAGE. Death of her Mother. Friend
Hopper's Second Marriage.
II.-CHILDHOOD.
I
II
21
III.- EARLY LIFE. Customs of Friends. Friend
Hopper's Removal to New York. Abby's School
in Philadelphia. She Follows her Family to New
York. Friend Hopper goes to Europe
IV.-MEETING WITH JAMES S. GIBBONS. James's
Family. Engagement
V.-MARRIAGE. Birth of Son
VI.-BEGINNINGS OF ANTI-SLAVERY. Removal to
New York. Birth of Daughter
VII.- TROUBLE IN FRIENDS' MEETING
24
71
85
I00
114
124
VIII.- DISOWNMENT
IX.-LOSS OF CHILDREN. Death of Dr. William
Gibbons. Long Island Farms. Legacy of Seven
Children
X.-WOMEN'S PRISON ASSOCIATION AND HOME.
Daughters go to Boarding-School. Hungarian
Refugees
XI.-DEATH OF ISAAC T. HOPPER. Letters to
Children
.
149
161
.
XII.-WILLIAM GIBBONS. Harvard Law School.
Death of Josiah Hopper. Willie enters Harvard
College
vii
176
VOL. I.

viii
Contents
CHAPTER
PAGE
XIII.-WILLIE'S DEATH.
205
.
XIV.–VISIT TO BOSTON .
239
XV.-GENERAL SUMMARY. Abolition. Randall's
Island. The Tombs. The Rebellion. The
Riots. Infant Asylum. State Regulation of
Vice. Labor and Aid Association. Hopper
Home. Diet Kitchens. Police Matrons. Re-
formatory for Women
.
243
XVI.-JOHN BROWN
261
XVII.-VISITS TO CAMBRIDGE AND SALEM
277
XVIII.-WILLIE'S MEMOIR.
285
Leaves for Wash-
XIX.-OUTBREAK OF THE WAR.
ington
290
* Three
XX.-FALLS CHURCH AND WINCHESTER.
Hundred Thousand More.” Hospital Life
295
.
331
XXI.-BANKS'S RETREAT FROM STRASBURG. Return
Home. Washington. To Winchester again.
Strasburg.
POINT LOOKOUT (JOURNAL). Dismissal from
Hospital. Re-instatement. Death of Major
William Dwight Sedgwick. Arrival of Com-
modore with Wounded. Visit to Washington.
Contrabands. Anonymous Letter
346

LIFE OF ABBY HOPPER GIBBONS


LIFE OF
ABBY HOPPER GIBBONS.
CHAPTER I.
1801-1824.
PARENTAGE.
I
N the first year of the present century a little girl
was born into the world, who was destined to
play an important part in the events of a long
and active life, and to leave the impress of an un-
usual character upon all who came within her in-
fluence.
The history of a life which covered nine tenths
of the nineteenth century, would be of much in-
terest, though it were but a record of an intelligent
spectator of affairs; but this is the story of a wo-
man who fulfilled all the duties of wife and mother,
and yet bore her share in every great popular re-
form; who loved the simple ways and peaceful life
of her Quaker ancestry, and yet, in time of nced,
offered herself to her country as freely as any sol-
dier who marched southward with musket on his
VOL. I.-I
I

2
[1801-
Abby bopper Gibbons
shoulder; who had a pure and highminded woman's
abhorrence of impurity and crime, and yet feared
not to penetrate into the blackest dens of iniquity,
if by so doing she might lead one poor, struggling
creature out of darkness into light.
The memory of such a life, full of purpose and
heroism and devotion to duty, cannot fail to be a
source of inspiration and delight to all who dwell
upon it.
Abby Hopper was the third child of Isaac
Tatem and Sarah Tatum Hopper, and was born
in Philadelphia on the seventh of Twelfth month,
1801. Her mother belonged by inheritance to the
Society of Friends, her father being a Friend by
conviction only; his father having forfeited the
right of membership by “marrying out of Meet-
ing.” Levi, Isaac's father, attended Meeting but
was not a member, and married Rachel Tatem, of
rigid Presbyterian ancestry. As the life of Isaac
T. Hopper has been recorded in full by Lydia
Maria Child, it is not needful to dwell upon it here,
except in connection with that of his daughter;
and yet the bond between father and child was of
so close and so tender a nature, that it is impossible
to separate the life-history of one from that of the
other.
Rachel Hopper was a deeply religious woman
and is said to have had spiritual experiences of an
unusual character. On one occasion, she gathered
several of her children around her, and after a
period of silence, said: "I am about to lose a
child and a very pleasant one." Shortly after-

1824]
3
Parentage
ward, a nephew was seen in the distance, hurrying
across the fields. Going to the door to meet him,
Rachel Hopper said, before he had spoken a word,
My son James is drowned."
How dost thou know, Aunt?” returned the
astonished messenger.
“I know it,” was the simple answer of the be-
reaved mother.
The boy's body was not recovered at once, and
the river was dragged in vain. The mother prayed
with fervid earnestness that her son might be re-
stored to her, and her prayer was answered; for,
as she stood beside the river bank, the body of
James was washed up at her very feet. He had
lost his life in trying to save that of a comrade.
John and Sarah Tatum, Abby's maternal grand-
parents, lived near Woodbury, New Jersey, where
they brought up a large family of children. It was
there the little Abby and her sisters spent many
happy days. When the little girls were all ready
to leave, Grandmother Tatum (a step-grandmother)
sometimes gave Abby a twenty-five cent piece and
her sister Elizabeth a five-penny bit, saying :
“ Abby, thee may come again. As for thee,
Elizabeth, thee need n't come until thee can quit
climbing trees and tearing thy clothes."
This Grandmother Tatum prided herself on her
pretty china, and it was Abby's pleasure to set the
table for Quarterly Meeting Friends, who came to
dine and sup.
Abby was a very pretty child, with light brown
hair, fair and delicate skin, rosy color, straight nose,

4
[1801-
Abby bopper Gibbons
and eyes of that clear and limpid tint, known in
the family as "the Hopper blue." She had a habit
of drawling slightly, and, when asked her name,
would look up with those modest eyes of hers, and
answer: “A-a-abby Ho-o-opper La-a-aly Lo."
The “ La-a-aly Lo” was a euphonic addition of
her own invention.
A plaything which survived for many years, to
meet a tragic fate, was an India china bird, given
by a freed slave to Abby, when she was nine or ten
years old, as a token of gratitude for the little girl's
kindness and sympathy. This was carefully treas-
ured through her childhood, becoming, in after
years, a sacred plaything to her own children, and
disappearing, in company with far more precious
possessions, in the terrible riots of 1863. During
Friend Hopper's last illness (which passed at his
daughter's house) this bird was kept on the mantel-
piece in his room ; he said “I like to look at it.”
"Seventh day ” was a happy day for the Hopper
children. Then came the crowning pleasure of the
week, in the shape of a long, delightful walk with
their father. Other young people often joined the
party, and now and then they crossed the Delaware,
and took a ramble on the other shore. The father
amused them with entertaining talk, telling them
stories, or calling attention to the beautiful things
around them. Young people found a peculiar
charm in Friend Hopper, and the weekly tramps
were long remembered by those who had the privi-
lege of sharing them.
Abby's nature was an unselfish one and this

1824)
5
Parentage
showed itself at a very early age. Although ap-
preciative of the smallest gifts, many of which she
preserved carefully through her long life, she was
generally ready to “pass along to someone else"
in order that the pleasure might be doubled. She
seemed to have no thought of self, and reference
to herself and her feelings is seldom found in her
letters.
Once, on one of her sisters declaring that she
could not attend Meeting because she had nothing
to wear over her shoulders, Abby offered her own
silk shawl, wearing herself a plain, large handker-
chief in its place. Later, when going from New
York to Philadelphia, to visit and attend Meetings,
Elizabeth Hicks, a friend who accompanied her,
expressed regret that she had omitted to take a
best dress.”
Thee is welcome to one which I have in my
trunk,” said Abby. The friend gladly accepted,
not suspecting that Abby would be obliged to ap-
pear in her travelling dress. Not many days after,
the latter received a present of a handsome fawn-
colored Turk-satin, which, put carefully away,
served for her wedding gown.
But she was not devoid of an innocent love of
display, and it was long remembered in the family
that she had once gone away on a week's visit, tak-
ing eight dresses—a wonderful superfluity in those
days of simple living. Another time, when the
fashion of short waists prevailed, the little girl cut
away enough of the upper part of her dress to re-
duce it to the fashionable width, spoiling it so com-
60
66

6
(1801-
Abby bopper Gibbons
pletely as to make it necessary to cover its de-
ficiencies with a cape.
The Hopper children were well, though plainly
dressed, for their mother had a theory that it was
the best economy to use good material. One day,
going to “Sammy Fisher's" store to look at dress
stuffs, she was pleased with a handsome but rather
expensive pattern. While considering the subject
of taking it, Friend Fisher (a kind though eccen-
tric man) said :
“Sarah Hopper, that piece is a great deal too
good for thee."
With reluctance she selected a cheaper article,
but had not been long at home, when a package
came containing the coveted pattern. Friend
Fisher had cut the piece in two, sending one half as
a present to her, while he gave the other to his wife.
The intimacy with the Robinson sisters, which
was to be lifelong, dates from these early days, and
the names of Catherine, Elizabeth, Anna, Susan
and Mary, Margaret and Abby, were household
words. Mary afterwards married Dr. William
Gibbons, brother of Abby's husband. The young
girls of the two families were in the habit of meet-
ing at each other's houses to read papers written by
them during the week. These productions were
sometimes literary or critical, sometimes discus-
sions of the events of the day ; and crude and
childish as they doubtless were, served to form a
habit of independent thought and clear expres-
sion.
In this pleasant home, surrounded by congenial

1824]
7
Parentage
friends, and guarded by a wise mother who took
pains to train her daughters in every domestic art,
Abby grew up a healthy and beautiful girl. Her
young companions called her “Di Vernon," for
she was a picture of blooming and spirited woman-
hood. Nor was she wanting in a sense of humor.
There are stories of herself and brother dressing in
“plain clothes," and going to “deal with” young
acquaintances who had indulged in frivolous
amusements. On one occasion, when her mother
was exhorting her to attend to certain instructions,
and added :
“Thee will not always have me to tell thee these
things," Abby replied :
“Well, Mother, thee can write it down"; mother
and daughter joining in laughter over the freedom
of speech.
On another occasion, being one of a party to
visit the glass works, they were surprised to find a
charge of fifty cents admission asked.
“Faith, Abby, will thee go in ?” exclaimed Ab-
by's escort.
“Verily," said Abby, and in they went; but the
mischievous girl took pains to wrap a fifty cent
piece carefully in paper and leave it at the young
man's house on the following day.
She was once invited by her friend Tom Fisher
to accompany him to a lecture. On coming out,
“Tom,” who was not without his peculiarities,
asked her how she was going home.
"I am going this way,” said Abby.
' And I, this,” replied Tom, turning in the other
66

8
[1801-
Abby hopper Gibbons
direction, and leaving her to find her way alone.
She was often heard to tell this story, and always
with glee.
Companionship with her father helped to deepen
the originality of her mind, and ripen her judg-
ment, while her keen sense of humor-a birthright
of all the Hoppers—served to make smooth many
of the rough places of life.
As her father's circumstances were somewhat
straitened in these days, her mother, in order to
assist in the maintenance of a large and growing
family, opened a tea-store on Spruce Street near
Second, where Friends could purchase tea of a
superior quality. It proved a successful venture,
and was continued for years, the daughters assist-
ing their mother in the store.
Abby bore her share in this new undertaking for
a while, but soon felt convinced that she could
work to better advantage in another way. After
consulting with her parents, she opened a small
day school at No. 1 School Avenue, Comptroller
Street, for the children of Friends, and soon her
hands and thoughts were fully occupied. The
scholars were for the most part children of her ac-
quaintances, and the young teacher threw herself
into the work with characteristic ardor and energy.
The fee for tuition was three dollars a quarter,
or twelve dollars a year. The usual elementary
branches of education were taught, as well as sew-
ing; for Abby was a skilful needlewoman, and
expert in that exquisite stitching which is the
wonder and despair of this generation,

1824]
9
Parentage
A severe trial fell upon the family on the 18th of
Sixth month, 1822, in the loss of the dear mother
whom they loved so tenderly. Sarah Hopper died
at the comparatively early age of forty-seven, leav-
ing ten children: one of these, Isaac, died at the
age of fifteen, surviving his mother only a year.
She had labored faithfully to instil into her daugh-
ters those principles of neatness and order for
which she was herself so remarkable, and her
favorite saying, “ a place for everything and every-
thing in its place,'' became one of the guiding
rules of Abby's life. So faithfully did she observe
it that, when past her ninety-first year, she kept
every drawer and shelf in such exquisite order,
that she could send for a needed article, or find it
herself in the dark, sure of its being in its own
place. Yet she was never fussy. Early in life she
had formed the habit of putting a thing exactly
where it belonged as soon as she had done using it,
a way to save time.”
Another of Sarah Hopper's maxims, which she
often quoted to her children, was not to borrow
trouble-" live a day at a time," she used to say,
and when they were going into company, she in-
structed them to “talk about things, not persons."
She had a wholesome dislike of personalities, and
this trait repeated itself in her daughter.
On the fourth of the Second month, 1824, Friend
Hopper took to himself a second wife, Hannah
Attmore, between whom and Sarah there had been
a long and tender friendship. Before consenting
to an engagement, Hannah insisted that the chil-
as

IO
[1801--24
Ebby bopper Gibbons
dren should be consulted, and such was their
loyalty towards their father, that "it never oc-
curred to one of us to object,” as Abby ex-
pressed it.
This marriage was, in every respect, an emi-
nently suitable and happy one.
The new tie grew
closer every year, and, as another family of chil-
dren came, the elder ones took the younger into
their hearts and loved both mother and children
with increasing tenderness.
Hannah Hopper was a woman of consummate
tact, and adapted herself to her new position with
the utmost discretion, being so considerate of the
wishes of the older children, that it was said of
her, “she never changed the place of a piece of
furniture without consulting them."

CHAPTER II.
1811.
CHILDHOOD.
T"
HE best description of Abby's childhood is
found in a few letters written by her in
1878 to her only granddaughter. These
letters afford a vivid picture of her simple, natural,
home life, which was to show such rich results in
after years. The only one written in early life,
which has been found, is given below.
Philadelphia, 7 mo., 19, 1811.
Dear Sister,
“I take up my pen to write a few lines to tell thee
I am well and hope thee is the same. Brother
Edward has been very sick and Mother thinks that
he is better. I think thee might make me a bag or
something before thee comes home. Rachel wrote
to Ellen last first day brother Isaac has been
bravely and he can say anything at all.
“Thy affectionate sister
“ Abigail Hopper."
The following are the letters to her grand-
daughter referred to above.
II

I2
(1811
Abby bopper Gibbons
TO BONNIE.
“ New-York, August 6th, 1877.
“My dearest Child,
“When I was a little girl, I went to school, and
had many playmates. My father was very fond of
little children and had so many happy ways, that
they were very much inclined to come to him for
the stories he used to tell them—and he knew a
great many.
“One Saturday, he said, “If your mother con-
sents, we will go over the river to-day, and make a
visit to the woods.' So she fixed us off, with our
schoolmates, and all together, we counted eleven.
We were all in high glee, and crowded about him ;
and when we got to the river, stept into a wherry
(which was a small sort of boat). A kind man rowed
us over and seemed to enjoy it as much as we did.
“When we reached Kaighn's Point, on the other
side, my father, who was thy great-grandfather,
led the way for his ready followers and soon we
reached the woods, and, in a shady retreat, found
old Nancy, as she was called. She lived in her
wee bit of a house, all as clean as a new pin, or, as
a milkpail. She made gingerbread of the best
kind, and root-beer-to sell—and that is the way
she earned a living. We were very hungry, of
course, and my father said, 'Come, Nancy, here
are my young friends, ready to dispose of thy
gingerbread. Bring the plate full, and some bottles
of spruce beer, and let us sit under the trees to
rest awhile !'

1811]
13
Cbildbood
“In the meantime, Nancy sat down and talked ;
the birds were singing, the squirrels running up and
down the trees, and she told us how cunning they
were and what good company she found them. Old
Nancy was a very dark-colored woman-darker
than the brown ribbon I have seen on thy hat. She
had very white teeth, a soft voice, and such a
pleasant smile, that we thought her lovely. She
wore a dress with bright flowers running up it like
a vine, and on her head a clean, white cap.
"Well, we stayed a long time, gathering flowers
and
mosses, and took home our aprons full. We
all wore aprons when I was a little girl, and they
kept our dresses clean and nice. We reached
home in time for supper, and my dear, good
mother, who was thy great-grandmother, met us at
the door and welcomed us. She took us all out to
supper, where she had round short-cakes and ber-
ries, and we were quiet while we ate them; for, in
those days, children were not expected to talk at
the table, but to listen to older people. Respect
to age was considered essential to good manners.
Supper ended, we gave a merry account of our
excursion, to which my mother listened with de-
light. She was a handsome woman, her complexion
pink, like thine, and her hair inclined to curl ;
lovely blue eyes with a tender expression, like
Jamie's, and this is the picture, preserved in my
memory, of the best of mothers.
“If thee likes this story, perhaps I can tell thee
more.
66
Thy loving Grandmother."

14
(1811
Abby bopper Gibbons
TO BONNIE.
“N. Y., Sept. 11, 1878.
“Bonnie Morse,
“My darling Grandchild,
“When I was a little girl, my grandfather, who
lived in Woodbury, New Jersey, came to Phila-
delphia on a visit to my father and mother, who
always gave him a warm welcome.
He invited my
sister Elizabeth and myself to pay him a visit.
We were the happiest of children, and danced for
joy. We were dressed and ready, when the wind
began to blow and the rain came pelting down,
and we feared a disappointment, but my mother
said, 'Let them go.' My father took each by the
hand, and we tripped along right merrily.
“When we reached Market Street Ferry, the
rain began to hold up a little, but the wind blew
harder than ever, and the boatman said, 'Shall we
wait a little ?''Oh, no,' said my father, and led
us both into the wherry. We all sat down, and he
held on to us, while the boat rode over the waves,
tilting first on one side and then on the other, and
sometimes seeming not to touch the water.
“When we reached the other side (a place called
Camden), there were many people watching anx-
iously, and one man called out gaily to my
father, 'You are a brave sailor, Isaac.' And
there, waiting for us on the shore, was our dear
grandfather, with his beautiful silver locks.
<s. We
were put into a waggon, bade our dear father
farewell, and drove at a slow pace to the lovely

1811)
15
Cbildbood
home where our mother was born. A new Quaker
bonnet for my aunt was assigned a safe corner in
the waggon (as was supposed, alas !), but my sister
was an active little body, and not apt to be still
long at a time. The rain poured in torrents, and
the thunder and lightning were terrific, most of
the way. When the storm abated, my grandfather
looked about him, to see if all was right. I re-
member his dismay when he found my sister sitting
upon my aunt's bonnet-box, for he well knew what
must be the fate of the bonnet within.
He was
not the man to be disconcerted, and with an
“Ahem' and 'Aha' he simmered down in quiet
acquiescence.
“We soon reached the old homestead, which was
a Heaven to us. It was a large farm, and in the
middle of a green lawn was a brick house, with a
porch in front and a paved walk before it. The
lawn was like green velvet, beautifully clean; not
a straw was permitted ; even the trees and bushes,
as they cast their leaves, did not escape my grand-
father's ever-watchful eye.
At one corner of the house was a pine-tree;
next to it, a weeping willow, and in the same row,
two sycamores. Just inside the gate grew the
bluebells, which were the delight of my mother.
They had a peculiarly delicate fragrance : it is
long since I beheld the plant.
About a block's distance from the dear old
house was a huge pear-tree, and near it, even with
the ground, a great hole. In this we built our
playhouse, and played with pieces of broken china.
06

16
(1811
Abby Tbopper Gibbons
On baking-days, my grandmother made custard-
pies for us to play with, and many a nice make-
believe dinner we had! When tired, we went to
the orchard, gathered rushes, and made baskets.
“The henhouse was not far off ; we fed the
chickens and thought we owned them all. There
were speckled bantams and their baby brood, and
every other variety. As to the roosters, they waked
us every morning with their Cock-a-doodle-do.
“We dressed quickly and away to the barnyard,
to get our tin cups filled with new milk. On the
way, was a row of cherry-trees, upon which we
looked with delight, but did not stop there. We
had a cherry pudding for dinner, I remember, and
no puddings ever tasted as did those we ate from
a long table spread under those very trees in the
days of our childhood.
“ Thy loving Grandma.
“No children ever had a happier childhood, and
I wish for my beloved Bonnie her full measure of
enjoyment, shared by her dear little brothers, in
many pleasant ways. And her mother and father
may they enjoy their dear children, as we have
ours, is the wish of thy loving
Grandma."
66
66
TO BONNIE.
“N. Y. Aug. 29, '77.
When I was a little girl.”
Going to the Mill.
Come children, we will drive to the Mill. I
must have my grain there to-day,' said my grand-
father; and turning to his boy John, called for
666

1811]
17
Cbildbood
66
‘Bay' and old 'Hector,' while we rolled into the
wagon, greatly pleased to sit there while the horses
were saddled and bridled.
Grandmother sent out a plate of gingerbread to
eat by the way, and we rattled along merrily, never
a bit weary of the long drive and the talk to the
horses, who seemed like part of the family. Com-
ing home, we called at the store' for a jug of
molasses, and then at the Post office for letters,
which were sure to tell of pleasant things at home;
especially about the baby, always the pet of the
family.
“On the way to and from the Mill, many were the
questions answered patiently by our good grand-
father. I had been told that poor old 'Hector'
was blind, which made me feel very tenderly for
him, and I inquired if it was true. Grandfather
said, 'well, my child, he is blind in one eye and
can't see out of the other.' Here was a grain of
comfort and I was let to believe he could see just
a little.
"My uncle Josiah, of whom I was very fond, was
a most agreeable man ; he had been well educated
and took great pleasure in books. When he
worked at his plough, he always carried a book
in his pocket to look into at odd moments. He
was very fond of poetry, and when evening came,
would say, 'Come, my dear, and sit down with
me by the little window that looks out upon the
sunset.' It was at one end of a large open fire-
place. Such a cosy-corner !--and holding me by
the hand he began to repeat what I delighted to
2

18
(1811
Abby bopper Gibbons
It was
66
hear, for it was like music to my ear.
beyond my years, but not lost upon me, for I re-
member now what he taught me in the days when
I was a little girl.
My uncle had a pet horse he called ' Juno;'
he took me to drive whenever he could find time-
sometimes to see Grandfather and Grandmother
Hopper and the aunts who lived with them.
They were named Sarah, Rachel, Mary, and Anne.
They always gave us a warm welcome and as
much cake as they thought good for us. This
grandfather had curly hair with, here and there,
a tinge of silver grey. I admired it so much that
I always kept a ringlet, and think I have it now,
but am not quite certain that it did not share the
fate of my many heart's treasures.*
"My Grandmother Hopper was a remarkable
woman, so everybody said. We were always ready
for a drive, and as early to bed and early to
rise' was the habit of these good people, we were
up in season at all times, and went cheerfully to
our beds too.
“I wish for my darling grandchild as much hap-
piness as was the good fortune of her loving
“Grandma."
*
WHEN I WAS A LITTLE GIRL."
“New York, September 15, 1878.
“My darling Bonnie.
“My Grandfather gave a farm to each of his
sons; the eldest was my Uncle John; Uncle David
* Those lost in the Riots of '63.

1811)
19
Childhood
66
was.
next; Uncle George, the third son, whose wife
was my Aunt Beulah. She was a bright little
woman, with a merry twinkle of the eye, which
told us she was happy to bring us her moulds of
nice butter, and Pot cheese, as they called it in
primitive times : her fresh eggs for the children,
and the jug of rich cream always an accompani-
ment, and especially for my mother.
No wonder we have sweet memories of Aunt
Beulah. But what charmed us more than all, was
her dear little baby, which she never left behind.
I see the sparkle of its little eyes as they peeped
from under a hood, made of old fashioned calico,
and a wrapper of the same material. Both made
one garment, and a very sensible arrangement it
There was nothing so pretty to my eye as
that little pattern of simplicity ; which I would
ask thy mother to draw, if she were here.
"Oh, the days when I was a little girl! My
Uncle George lived at Mullica Hill; he was
affectionate and so very kind : he always remem-
bered my father in some pleasant way, and many
funny things happened. Once a year, we were
sure of a little Roaster, which came upon the
table whole, to the great amusement of the family,
—especially us children. There it was on the
platter, -head, tail and all! So nicely dressed
and baked, for my mother was a very notable
housewife, and no one ever said there was any-
thing wanting by way of improvement. Apple
sauce was considered a necessary appendage, and
accordingly they (the apples) came in the basket

20
Abby bopper Gibbons
[1811
with the little Piggy; and sage for seasoning.
Our good Aunt never failed to bring a great
bunch of Lavender blossoms to put in our drawers,
which made our handkerchiefs smell delightfully.
“My dear mother was a very thoughtful, care-
taking woman, and I remember one day, when
they arrived in the early morning, she wondered
if the baby had not taken cold, for it was chilly.
"Oh no,' said Aunt Beulah, I washed it well
all over with Apple Jack ; we leave in the small
hours when the stars are shining, and so sister and
I provide against cold and exposure.'
"I had great love for my Uncles and Aunts;
and my mother's pleasant, winning ways made our
home attractive, and her welcome came from the
depths of her loving heart. And, as for my
Father, he was honored and beloved by every
root and branch of a numerous family of both
Hopper and Tatum.
Grandma."
Thus ends the narrative of Abby's childhood,
and the next record we have is in a letter written
in the twenty-eighth year of her age.

CHAPTER III.
1829-1831.
EARLY LIFE.
Philadelphia, 8th mo., 9th, 1829.
“My dear Sister,
Nothing has transpired worthy of
remark in your absence-only, that we got the
washing done to satisfaction, and earlier than usual.
I was up by five o'clock this morning and did my
share of the ironing.
What a shabby let-
ter ! Read it; then burn. The next (provided I
feel in the notion) shall be better."
TO HER FATHER.
“Philadelphia, 11 mo., 7th, 1829.
“My dear father cannot imagine what a rich
present his letter was. It raised my spirits to the
99th degree, and I feel 'great spirits' to answer
it. I should have written before, had I not sup-
posed that Sarah had communicated all that would
be likely to interest thee concerning the Quarterly
Meeting. Perhaps she mentioned that Exeter
Friends sent in a request to become our members ;
and a large Committee-seven men and fourteen
women-were named to visit and advise concern-
21

22
[1829-
Abby bopper Gibbons
ing the proper mode of procedure. The Meeting
was large and very satisfactory. Mary Biddle and
Deborah F. Wharton served as clerks; and Rachel
Wilson and Sarah H. Palmer were appointed for
the coming year.
The elevation does not set re-
markably well on Sarah, but no doubt her father
will be proud she is so well thought of.
"Last evening, James and Lucretia * spent with
us. Meanwhile, the letters arrived and, thee may de-
pend, were read with a zest. You had been the sub-
ject of conversation most of the evening, and James
and Lucretia were greatly pleased to find things
went on so comfortably with you. I should like
to see the Friend who did not feel easy to eat off
a gilt-edged plate. No doubt he is a very sincere
and good man, but it seems wondrous queer, when
Nature made red apples, peaches, and so forth, –
the grass green, and a blue sky,-all this cannot be
changed. I like simplicity. I never yet felt the
least disposition to wear gay colors of any kind, or
trimming, or ornamental work. I acknowledge, I
am a little particular about the cut of a garment.
Our tastes differ and we cannot all agree as to
what is most becoming. Therefore, everyone to
his liking. I am quite free to accommodate the
Friend with a pewter plate, although it has, when
bright, the appearance of costly silver.
Perhaps it was the colouring (indigo,
the labour of slaves), that occasioned Friend Law-
ton's uneasiness. I should like to know."
66
* Mott.

1831]
23
Early Life
TO HER SISTER RACHEL.
Philadelphia, 2/2, 1830.
To-day, we have attended the Quarterly Meet-
ing, the particulars of which Sarah will give. The
Queries were read, with the answers, with which I
cannot unite while I continue my visits at Friend
Fisher's. * It may truly be classed with other
places of diversion.'
You know Sarah
is our Clerk. So far, I must say, she has performed
well.
“Dear me, what does thee think? Prissy Doves
got up in Meeting this morning, and said she could
not 'approve of those schools where they painted
Picters, and larned beadwork, and all that kind of
thing. I thought to myself, she would raise her
hands at the sight of the samplers in my school
just now. They are splendid, and, when you
come, you shall have a sight of them, for they are
nearly finished.
“Catherine says she continues to wear her belts
as formerly. She is 'principled against putting
the hooks any further back.' I am glad the plates
arrived safely. How nice the tea table will look
with those light cups and all the finery !
Abby."
66
It
may
be well to add here a few words concern-
ing the customs of Friends. After the separation
* The fourth query reads: Do Friends avoid the unneces-
sary use of spirituous liquors, frequenting taverns, and attend-
ing places of diversion ?

24
(1829–
Abby bopper Gibbons
66
in the Society, they were called respectively,
"Orthodox” and “Hicksites," the latter being a
term of derision. This name was used only by the
other side and was applied to the liberal body, who
were supposed to follow the leadership of Elias
Hicks, a Friend much loved and respected by all
who knew him.
The Meeting exercised a friendly supervision
over its members. There were overseers, as they
were called, whose duty it was to be present at
marriages and on occasions of ceremony. When
two young people became engaged, their proposals
were sent to the Meeting, and soon after, they re-
ceived a visit from a committee appointed for the
purpose, whose duty it was to inquire if there were
any other like entanglements," &c. The mar-
riage ceremony was simple and the same for man
and woman. They married themselves, in the
presence of witnesses. The form read as follows,
the groom taking the bride's hand and repeating
the words first. “In the presence of the Lord and
this Assembly, I take thee -, to be my wife,
promising to be to thee a loving and faithful hus-
band until death shall separate us.” The wife
then said the same.
In case of a person “marrying out of Meeting
—that is, marrying someone who was not a Mem-
ber of the Society of Friends -he or she was
"visited," and, if no satisfactory reason could be
given,“ disowned.”
Any departure from simple living or plain dress
called forth a remonstrance. Thus, a bow worn

1831]
25
Early Life
by Abby was regarded by a rather meddling
Friend as a departure. But, as a rule, this inter-
est of the Meeting, in the welfare of its members,
was not looked upon as meddling. They were a
simple people and their ways were simple. In the
eyes of the world, they were narrow in their preju-
dice against music, card-playing, theatre-going,
etc., but it must be remembered that, in those days
of comparative simplicity, such pursuits were not
so harmless as they are now ; nor were their asso-
ciations elevating. Neither were these particular
prejudices confined to Friends. There were many
who shared them. Perhaps it would be well for
other religious bodies to borrow some of their
persuasive methods. Would it be amiss to ask :
“Are Friends careful to refrain from tale-bear-
ing and detraction ? "
Are Friends careful not to sleep in Meeting ?”
“Are Friends careful to avoid extravagance in
dress ? ” etc., etc.
These questions were called “Queries," and
were asked and answered, then, as now, in their
yearly Meetings.
Feeling ran very high at times. It was so strong
in Philadelphia that a “Hicksite" was not allowed
to bury a member of his family in the old burying-
place, and " so they laid her in the new ground.”
66
وو
TO ABBY FROM HER FATHER.
“ New York, 4 mo., 21st, 1830.
“... I expect to leave here for Jericho at
one o'clk to-day, to-morrow being our Quarterly

26
[1829-
Abby hopper Gibbons
Meeting, which is to be held at Westbury ; divers
friends are going. We want to hear all about the
Orthodox Yearly Meeting. Tell us all you know.
Did Uncle Joseph Ogden attend all the sittings of
Friends' y— Meeting ? have the Orthodox called
upon Uncle John (Tatum), to treat with him for his
transgressions ? I want to hear what they say to
him. I think they will find it hard work to rank
him with evil doers."
In the year 1829, Isaac T. Hopper removed to
New York, where he took charge of a book-store
devoted principally to Friends' literature. His
daughter Abby did not accompany the family to
their new home, as she was engaged at that time
in teaching the small day-school before referred
to. She remained for a while in Philadelphia,
living with her married sister, Sarah H. Palmer.
The separation from her family did not continue
long, and in 1830 we find her under her father's
roof, in New York, where she took charge of a
Friends' school.
The schools established for the children of
Friends being under the supervision of the Meet-
ing, a committee was appointed to visit them at
stated times, for the purpose of exercising a
watchful care over both teacher and pupils. These
visits were always a trial to Abby, whose high
spirit and independent disposition made it diffi-
cult for her to submit patiently to well-meant but
often ill-judged suggestions and advice. She had
a perpetual fund of good-humor, however, and a

1831]
27
Early Life
happy faculty for turning an annoyance into a
jest, so that her relations with “ the committee”
were usually of a very pleasant nature.
TO ABBY FROM MARY B. THOMAS.
" Philadelphia, 7 mo., 1st, 1830.
"I am sure, my dear Abby, thou art one of the
most industrious creatures that I know, for who but
thyself would find time to write such lovely long
letters as thou hast sent to Sarah, when one would
imagine that thy school would make thee glad to
rest from the use of the pen ?
"I called to see Sarah last evening, when she al-
lowed me to read some of thy letters. How clever
it is that thou hast so disposed thyself to be satis-
fied with thy committee ! I have no doubt they
will conclude that thou hast no need of so many
overseers; but then, Abby, I have no idea that
they will be willing to give up the right to visit
thee. It must be very inconvenient to be continu-
ally the object of so much attention ;-but, Abby,
stick to thy bows-do not be wheedled out of those
necessary articles while thy own mind is easy with
their presence. Thy concerned friends must find
out, what we in Philadelphia know, that thou art
an independent character.
“Now, my dear Abby, as I am no mentor, I will
not conclude with any advice, and if I were ever
so qualified, I think it would be unchristian to in-
trude any, while the “committee” can so conven-
iently say all and more than should be said, . The
ribbons divert me,
I assure thee.”

28
(1829-
Ábby hopper Gibbons
TO JONATHAN AND SARAH HOPPER PALMER.
66
· New York, 9 mo. 2d, 1830.
'We have experienced the inconvenience of an
empty cistern—the last three weeks, have not had a
drop of rain-water, so made as little washing as
possible answer, as thee knows it is next to im-
possible to get clothes clean with pump-water. We
took the opportunity to have the cistern well
cleaned, and last week's rain furnished us with a
fresh supply. On 2d day, we had a prodigious
wash-did not finish ironing until last evening,
about 8 o'clk, after which we had supper. The
gentlemen did not make their appearance until
nine o'clk. Having given the children their sup-
pers early and sent them to bed, we concluded to
wait (I mean mother and myself) until father and
the boys arrived, for thee knows everything has a
peculiar relish when father is a partaker. We all
enjoyed the repast, during which father related the
more than thrice told tale of his early courtship.
Of the first letter he wrote to mother, when he
“untutored in the art” that he put his
own name outside and mother's in. Yesterday was
our Monthly meeting. D. G. preached, one of my
Committee. The burden of his song was to “bring
up a child in the way he should go, and when he
is old, &c.”—thinks I, 'my good friend, if thee 'll
labour in thy own vineyard, it will be a great relief
to me.' His little anointed is a scholar of mine.
“Father and myself will spend this evening at
Richard Field's, by special invitation, to have our
was SO

1831]
29
Early Life
profiles cut; thee knows Richard has a machine-
is very anxious to have father's before he goes—is
going to cut one for me. So, if I think it better
than the one I left with thee, will bequeath that
unto thee. Aint I generous ? Will have the best
myself. I intend to have it framed and will look
at it the first thing when I get up, and the last
when I go to bed, during his absence. The time
is approaching when he will leave us—we shall
miss him-and none more than myself; but I do
desire thee to behave thyself, and pray, do not
send any letters of condolence, or express any
regret until he is gone, at any rate—it will make
him feel badly and I know, if he leaves with gloomy
feelings, they will attend him on the way. Don't
know what may overtake me, but I am resolved
now to laugh till he goes. Once there, I expect to
take a day for it. I do want him to go off cheer-
fully, and if you write, let it be very encouragingly.
We are getting along prosperously at home and I
hope the sun will continue to shine till he is once
more with us.
“To make your mouths water, will just say our
grapes are ripe, and we have considerable many,'
as the New Yorkers say. Had I any conveyance,
would send you some; they are very good ; oppor-
tunities are not so abundant as in the warmer
months, so that we or rather I shall soon begin to
feel the dreariness of winter :--dreary, because we
cannot so often hear from you ; and very desolate,
because of our own dear father's absence. The
evenings are lengthening and we are collecting in

30
[1829-
Abby bopper Gibbons
the back parlour-some reading, others writing-
myself, from necessity, compelled to sew. Mother
in her chamber, generally, with the baby. Where
do you sit now-a-days ? Tell me all, that I may
make you an imaginary visit occasionally."
As will be seen from the foregoing letter, the
delight that Abby felt at being once more in the
society of her beloved father was soon to be in-
terrupted, as it was in the autumn of the same
year that he was obliged to undertake a voyage
to Ireland, on matters of family business. His
daughter's letters give a graphic description of the
preparations for the journey, and we can read be-
tween the lines, the story of her own self-forget-
fulness and cheerful devotion to duty.
TO JONATHAN AND SARAH, AND SISTERS SUSAN
AND ELIZABETH.
“ New York, 9th mo. 8th, 1830.
“Fourth day at noon. Father has just left us.
Am so selfish as to regret it, but, as necessity com-
pel'd him, must e'en bear it. Jonathan, I can
easily guess who helped thee from the boat with the
children. It was fim, without a doubt. Just like
one of his kind acts—tell me one good trait that
fellow don't possess—can't name one.
Sarah, thee
is right ; "he is a none-such of the present age'-of
every age. If I were only a few years younger and
there were not so many nice girls flocking round
him on the spot, I'd set my cap.

1831]
31
Early Life
“I should like thee to have a peep at us—we
look so nice. Mary has whitewashed the kitchen,
cellar, vault, and both Pantrys; everything is
sweet and clean ; the kitchen, I assure thee, is
quite a palace-the airy [area] was not forgotten.
Did father tell thee what a beautiful pocket hand-
kerchief we purchased for him? Never saw nicer.
When I know certainly, will tell thee every article
he takes-expect thee 'll want to know how many
steps he takes from the house to the vessel. I am
going as far as Sandy Hook with him. A steamboat
takes the passengers from Whitehall there-15
miles-when they go on board the vessel ; so I
shall see the last of him. I expect to behave like
a woman—will report if I do—if not, shall keep
silent on the subject..
TO SARAH.
“New York, 9 mo, 17th, 1830.
“There, my dear sister, I think I have been in a
good degree favored, as Friends say. Our dear
father has left us, and, to give thee an idea of my
feelings on the occasion would be utterly impossi-
ble—though no one knew, as I manifested not the
least emotion, in the presence of any, until I bade
him 'Farewell'in his own little lodging room on
board the vessel. It is a noble ship in excellent
repair, and furnished with every convenience de-
sirable. The elegant Brussels carpets that we, a
few days before, observed the floors to be covered
with, were removed, and others put down in their

32
(1829-
Abby topper Gibbons
-
place. Captain Sketchley I was delighted with-
told him he had in charge a precious treasure, and,
if he would only take good care of him, I would
bless him as long as I lived. He said, 'Never fear
-I will take very good care of him-he shall have
the Berth next but one to mine, if you consider that
any protection.' An intelligent, agreeable young
Irishman by the name of Patton, (to whom I was
introduced) occupies the one between, and has
promised to give attention to him in case of sick-
ness.
“ Josiah, John and myself went 18 miles in the
Boat with father, when we went on board the Ship
and sailed two miles, about ; then, went to the Boat
again. Father stood on the upper Deck, and talked
with us until the Bell rung-a signal for us to part
—the sailors took off their hats to us and made a
great noise ; John and Josiah went out of sight and
cried heartily ; Father and myself nodded smiling,
and, every sail hoisted, the Ship glided by most
splendidly. Kept my eye on father until I could dis-
tinguish him no longer. The Captain of the Boat
then handed me his glass and said, ' you feel very
badly parting with your father. Here, look at the
old gentleman as long as you can.' I did, until I
saw the young Irishman take him by the hand to
assist him in descending, and then the tears came
in torrents-not quite enough to float a vessel-
but the thought that I would not see him for
months, was quite as much as I could bear.
But I have not told thee about his little room-
it has upper and lower berths-he preferred the

1831]
33
Early Life
upper. So the Captain ordered the lower to be
cleared out ; which was done, and his two trunks
and a box containing his Hat, placed there ; also a
box of books. There is a sloping table in one cor-
ner for the purpose of writing-lifted the lid, and
there was a washbowl and Pitcher ; a looking-glass,
chair and a brass candlestick-the floor covered
with ingrain carpeting. There was but one lady pas-
senger. The Captain told Father he wondered he
should go without his daughter. He said, 'I al-
most wish I had concluded to take her, but she
must stay and care for those left behind.'
"The dinner-table was set, and, from appearances,
they were going to have Ducks. They take a Cow
with them so that they are not denied the luxuries,
custards etc. Pigs, too, they take, and every kind
of Poultry. All look as if they were well fed.
The Captain is a very humourous, intelligent fel-
low ; his seat at table is at the upper end on a
cushion; he said, when he had occasion to leave it,
he should place father there, because he knew he
would keep good order. They appeared mutually
pleased with each other.
“I feel much more comfortable about him since
I've been on board and find so many comforts. I
should feel no more timid than in going to Phila-
delphia. Oh, I wish thee had seen the vessel sail-
ing ! it was grand beyond description. The wind
was in favour, and everything looked prosperous-
hope it was ominous of the future. Father went
off in good spirits; was as cheerful the night before
as I ever saw him.
3

34
(1829–
Elbby bopper Gibbons
“Father sent his love to Jericho friends, by
Robert Seaman, in a butter Pail. He had intro-
ductory letters from the most respectable mer-
chants here ; W— stated that he was an up-
right, sensible, worthy man, and very intelligent.'
What did keep father's clothes ? we could have
skinned you alive. They came about five minutes
before we left. I packed them in the Trunk, and
left the box on board the Steamboat. In great
haste, Farewell."
TO JONATHAN AND SARAH.
“ New York, 9 mo. 21st, 1830.
“I bent my course toward the store to-day at
noon, concluding, if there was no news from Phil-
ada, something must be the matter ; when, to my
gratification, I found your very acceptable letter ;
which my covetous disposition wished twice the
length it was. We could not account for your long
silence; wondered Ned had not written.
“Rachel will return in a few days, and then, I
expect, will be in a panic to see Philadelphia.
Bless the city and its inhabitants ! It's worth
while to stay in New York a few years to learn the
many advantages of our delightful city. Jonathan,
when thee writes me again, and speaks of New
York, don't say 'your city.' ”
TO JONATHAN AND SARAH.
" New York, 11 mo. 3d, 1830.
The return of our dear brother Josiah was quite
a relief, as we had been looking for him daily for
66

1831]
35
Early Life
some time ; so that, at the time of his arrival, did
not much expect him. It was quite dark, I had
been out of an errand, and, near our door, he
seized me. It alarmed me to that degree, that it
was some time before I was myself again.
“And now, don't you want to hear something
funny? A few days since, that worthy personage,
Anne Smith, came round to the School; said she
had a little matter to say to Edward, and wanted
us two to take tea with them the next day. She
then said she would mention the subject to me.
“That, as she had passed our store, she had ob-
served a portrait of Elias Hicks in the window ;
and, next to it, the picture of a cat. That she had
an idea Ned had got it up in imitation of the Or-
thodox cat that bit Elias Hicks, and it would be
likely to occasion unpleasant remark.'
“The very idea made me laugh. I told her I
guessed it had never entered the boys' heads;
that John had purchased the cat, with other en-
gravings, for sale ; and, I supposed, had accidentally
placed it next to Elias. We had a long talk about
the propriety of such things, ' in Isaac T. Hopper's
store.' I let her know the pictures were no con-
cern of father's ; that the boys were alone respon-
sible ; and told her Ned would be willing to hear
what she had to say on the subject, and would
probably call in a few days. We propose passing
an hour with her soon.
She was in a great way about P. J.; had
heard an exaggerated account of the trouble
in Cherry St. ; that forty persons had spoken at
66

36
(1829-
Abby hopper Gibbons
once, and all in favor of Phæbe; but, when I in-
formed her that those who were disorderly, were
opposed to Phoebe, she thought it well enough.
She thinks it dreadful if Lucretia Mott tolerates
her, countenances her in any way; that she
ought, by all means, to be kept out. For my own
part, I don't know enough of the business to satisfy
her. We are a dark set, at best. To-day was no
Meeting ; five persons disowned for outgoing in
marriage, and one, for having joined the Presby-
terians. I prophecy that, in a few years, there will
scarcely be a sufficient number of Friends in New
York, to hold a Meeting.
"Mother and I went, the other night, to hear
Mr. Maffit, at the church above us.
Mother was
delighted ; but, pray keep dark ; she is afraid of
being reported, as and sister, ferreted us out.
TO SARAH.
“ New York, 5 mo., 17th, 1831.
66
"The arrival of our beloved father, thou canst
easily imagine, my dear sister, to be an exceeding
joyous circumstance. We have hardly been our-
selves since ten o'clock last evening, when he made
his welcome appearance at 122 Allen St., and bids
me this morning forward the information to you
with his dear love. He is in good health and
spirits, just as when he left us, and very glad to
be again of our dear circle. Says he sent a few
lines to you by the news-boat, which were penned
on board ship, and will probably reach you with

1831]
37
Early Life
him up.
6
66
this. When he arrived, Mother was at the store,
sister Rachel and I sitting in the kitchen. Josiah
appeared first but gave not the least intimation of
what was to follow, until he was snugly fixed in
the parlor, with James Haviland, who accompanied
Such an uproar, I guess thee never wit-
nessed. We did n't knock him quite down, but
were all at him at once. John says 'May his heart
never experience such an awful thumping again.'
They drank toasts and made fine speeches, and
this morning by five o'clock, every mother's son
and daughter of us were round his bed before he
was out of it, or Mother either. Can't give thee
an idea of our happiness. We can now enjoy the
Yearly.'”
When we heard yesterday at noon of the
Canada, without him, we were in the glooms, de-
pend on 't. I took a good laugh to keep from
crying, and by way of raising Mother and sister
Rachel, who were disposed to take it most pitifully
to heart. His appearance, so unexpected, only
heightened our joy. We have nothing more to
wish save that you were all here to enjoy it with
us, and we hope that little Sally, with any of the
older ones, will get on board the steamboat and
make us a visit. I promise to devote all my time
in attendance, and make you as comfortable as is
in my power. Will make Sally love me, and thee,
Sarah, shall attend the 'Yearly' and be young
again. What is to prevent ? think of the subject
and be assured of the warmest welcome.
"Father says, let Uncle John know forthwith, of

38
[1829-
Abby hopper Gibbons
his return, with his love affectionately, and say the
disappointment will be great, should he give up the
prospect of being with us the approaching week.
I have a deal more to say, but, bless thee,
I can't stay away any longer, so farewell ; will write
again in a few days. Father's kind friend, Mary
Card, of whom he speaks in his Journal, has sent
me a letter and present ; have not seen them yet ;
the trunks are still on the ship. In a great flurry.
“Thy affectionate sister A.
Love in abundance to all. Tell sister E. father
will be with you directly after the Yearly.'
Spare thy Tears,' Sarah, they cannot bring him
before.”
ABBY TO WM. WHARTON AND CO.
“New Amsterdam, 10 Mo., 19th, 1831.
"To the house of William.
“.. As there is but little news hereaway, I
beg leave to say a word of myself. My present
occupation is, on some accounts, desirable ; it
affords a better opportunity than I have hitherto
experienced, of increasing my store of knowledge,
which has always been very limited. Yet the
circumstance that I am under the direction of those
in authority, is not exactly in accordance with my
views of independence. A declaration of my free-
dom has remedied some difficulties, and under the
present regulation, I am tolerably content. All
who enter upon the wide sea of public life, must
expect many and boisterous gales; the rock of

1831]
39
Early Life
impatience is ever in my way, and it is only by
watching my own little Bark, that I escape ship-
wreck. I often have occasion to think of thee,
William, remembering thy consideration in times
past, for the health of the community. I have
thought, hadst thou been one of the School Com-
mittee, an effort, at least, would have been made for
the enlargement of the schoolroom ; which is past
all endurance, because of its littleness. Can hardly
give thee an idea of its dimensions; it reminds me
of the 'old woman who lived in a shoe ; she had
so many children, she did n't know what to do.'
I made a proposition a few days since, to
have my room enlarged four feet, which will take in
the unoccupied space in the larger apartment. The
only argument against the alteration is that it will
destroy the uniformity, which is certainly of little
account in consideration of the health of a large
number of children (60), and my own, too, which,
by the by, I informed them, in language that could
not be misunderstood, was of some little impor-
tance. It will cost a trifle, to be sure, but the
New-Yorkers boast of having plenty and I should
rather enlarge their organ of generosity by a gentle
hint, than submit to the inconvenience. Classes
in succession from nine until three, with half an
hour's intermission at noon.
“At precisely twelve, a bell is rung, and, for the
sake of fresh air, I skip home, which occupies ten
minutes fast walking. Mother has something in
the eating line in readiness, which is despatched in
five or ten, depending upon circumstances. For

40
[1829-
Abby hopper Gibbons
instance, should it be soup, boiling hot, as was the
case to-day, I must take it moderately and walk the
faster back. The bell rings again at half past
twelve to a Minute, and I must be in season to
receive a Grammar class. The two last divisions,
Arithmetic in separate classes.
Our little Mary is a scholar of Jane Clarke's, who
pronounces her an old fashioned, interesting, smart
little girl-indeed, we all think her above common.
As for our lovely, curly pated Tom-he is beyond
description. I should be proud to introduce him
to your notice. Sister Rachel and myself, accom-
panied by His Excellency, Samuel Brown, Esq.,
and others, went to the Fair, where we saw a great
display of ingenuity and elegance.
Even
pieced bedquilts, with many other articles on which
a great deal of time had been (I was going to say)
uselessly bestowed. Not that I deprecate the plan
of putting waste pieces to a good use, but would fall
upon something that would cost less time and
labour.
TO SARAH.
6
“ New York, 30th of the Mo., 1831.
Must tell thee of my reception. Father
and Ned met me at the boat. Father said, “Dear
me, what a fury Rachel is in ! thee may look out.'
Her first salutation was, “Well, I did n't expect
thee.' Mother said, 'Come at last !! By the
rout they made, might suppose that, instead of two
weeks, I had been absent about two months. It
seems father frightened Rachel almost to death

1831]
41
Early Life
when he arrived ; told her I was in disposed; so
much so that he had to leave me.
She directly
concluded I had ruptured a bloodvessel, as I had a
cough when I went away; and even after it was
told her that I was only indisposed to come home,
she could not get over it. She said she never
received such a shock in her whole life. They
were, at any rate, mighty glad to see me. Rachel
and I had a goodhumoured conversation the other
day, comparing each other's characters. She con-
cluded that she would rather die than lead the life
that I did ; that her situation was far preferable.
I told her I'd rather anything than live as she did.
Both concluded to be satisfied with our lot. She
says I am everlastingly on the go. I'm sure I don't
visit much, but, as I do all the visiting that is done,
and all the errands, shopping, etc., I must go out
occasionally. She hates to see my bonnet go on,
even for Meeting."

CHAPTER IV.
1831-1832.
MEETING WITH JAMES S. GIBBONS.
A
NEW interest had come into Abby's life, a
little before this time, which was to influ-
ence her whole future. During her resi-
dence in Philadelphia, she had frequently met a
young man from Wilmington, Delaware-James
S. Gibbons, by name—whose qualities of mind and
heart had made a deep impression upon her.
There is a playful allusion to him in one of her
letters of September, 1830, which shows that she
already regarded him with admiration and esteem ;
and these sentiments were soon to ripen into some-
thing deeper and more enduring.
James S. Gibbons came of an English Quaker
family, which had emigrated from Wiltshire and
settled in Chester County, Pennsylvania, about the
year 1681. The first American ancestor, John Gib-
bons, was a man of education, in comfortable cir-
cumstances, who soon took a prominent place in
the colony. He was one of the jurors in the trial
for witchcraft of a certain Margaret Mattson,
which took place before William Penn and his
Council, at Philadelphia, in 1683; and there is a
42

James S. Gibbons

GER I
18-1832
JAMES SCIEBO
ad come into Abis
his time, which was
de future. During
Siladelphia, she had frequenti
from Wilmington, Delaware
name moddiala asme
deep impression
silusion to him in one
ber, 1830, which shows
with admiration and
ats were soon to ripen inte
and more enduring
Cabbons came of an English
ed emigrated from' Viltsh
County, Pennsylvania, ale
American ancestor, you
education, in confort
Stook a prominent
one of the jurors in
ertain Margaret.
William Penn
in 1683 and



1831-32] Meeting witb James S. Gibbons
43
tradition in the family that he framed the com-
promise verdict which prevented a disagreement
of the jury ; to the effect that she was " guilty of
having the common fame of a witch, but not guilty in
manner and form as she stands indicted.” Of course,
this was an acquittal, and she was discharged.
John Gibbons's son, the first James Gibbons, re-
moved to Westtown, Chester County, and occupied
the Westtown plantation of six hundred acres,
which his father had deeded to him as a wedding
gift. On this pleasant estate, in one of the loveli-
est and most fertile spots in Pennsylvania, lived
three successive generations of James Gibbonses,
all of them men of influence and judgment, all
serving in turn in the General Assembly of their
State, and all noted for their independence of char-
acter, high intellectual abilities, and solid worth.
The women of this family were no less marked
in character than the men. Margery, wife of John,
the first settler, was disowned from Meeting be-
cause of the fearless and resolute stand she took
in what was called the “ Keith Controversy,” when
she maintained that the doctrines of the Society
were not sufficiently guarded against infidelity.
Her husband stood by her loyally, and finally left
the Society.
Jane Sheward, the wife of the second James
Gibbons, was a woman of rare mental endowments.
She survived her husband more than half a century,
superintended the education of her children, and
was regarded with veneration by her neighbors,
who gave her the title of “Queen of the County."

44
(1831-
Abby bopper Gibbons
Her style of dress, while in strict conformity with
the simplicity of Friends, was peculiarly becoming
to her tall and graceful person and native dignity
of manner. After the Battle of Brandywine, all
the livestock of her farm was driven off for the
use of the British army. She determined to re-
cover, if possible, a favorite cow, to which she was
much attached, and, for that purpose, made a per-
sonal application to General Howe. He received
her courteously and she stated her case.
“Madam," said the General, “ may I ask your
name?”
“My name," she said, " is Jane Gibbons."
Have you not a son in the rebel army ?” he
enquired.
I have a son in George Washington's army,”
she answered.
“I am afraid, Madam,” he said, “ that you love
your cow better than your King !”
Without replying to the impeachment, she said,
“I bid thee farewell,” and immediately retired.
Her suit failed with General Howe, but the cow
escaped from the enemy, and found her way back
to her kind mistress.
The third James Gibbons, son of Jane, was per-
haps the most highly gifted member of this family.
He was an accomplished linguist and mathema-
tician, and a valued and honored citizen. When
disputes arose among his neighbors, they were
generally referred to him for settlement. He took
a lively interest in the cause of education, and for
a short time conducted a flourishing classical school

1832]
45
Meeting witb James S. Gibbons
in Philadelphia, but soon grew weary of city life
and returned to his ancestral home. When the
Yearly Meeting of Friends appointed a committee
to secure a site for a boarding-school to be estab-
lished under their control, and a preference for his
Westtown property was expressed, he fixed in his
own mind a price for it which was far below its
actual value. His intention was to encourage the
scheme by a donation, and he chose to do it in
that way. The chairman of the committee, how-
ever, attempted to induce him to sell the property
at a still lower sum than that which the owner had
proposed. James Gibbons, justly indignant, quickly
replied :
"Why, friends, you deal like jockeys! If you are
not content with my offer, our business is ended!”
Quite content ! quite content !" the other
members of the committee hurriedly exclaimed ;
and the bargain was consummated, the Westtown
property thus passing out of the hands of the
family which had held it for over one hundred
years. He made it a condition that it should al-
ways be used for educational purposes.
James Gibbons was well known among the peo-
ple as a man of great learning. While the British
army was yet in the county, after the Battle of
Brandywine, some officers were one day making
merry at a wayside inn, and criticising the “igno-
rant country boors in rebellion against their King,"
when the inn-keeper happened to see Mr. Gibbons
driving up the road. Turning to his guests, he
exclaimed,

46
[1831-
Abby bopper Gibbons
"I'll wager twenty pounds that the first farmer
who drives past this inn can speak more languages
than the whole set of you put together!”
“A bet !” they cried, and the money was staked.
Soon after, Mr. Gibbons stopped to water his horse,
and one of the party, saluting him in French, was
civilly answered in the same tongue. Another, in
bad Spanish, asked him if he were a Frenchman,
and was told, in excellent Spanish, that he was
born in Chester County. After putting their heads
together, one of the party aimed at him a quota-
tion from Horace, when they found, to their amaze-
ment, that the plain-looking farmer was a good
Latin scholar. By this time Mr. Gibbons found
that he was on trial, and put the whole party to
rout by a volley of Greek, which none of them
could understand. The happy inn-keeper won his
bet, and the farmer went on his way.
Meeting three officers on the road one day, they
accosted him thus :
“Well, Abraham !” said one.
“Well, Isaac !” said another.
*Well, Jacob !” said a third.
He checked his horse and replied: "I am neither
Abraham, Isaac, nor Jacob,—but Saul, the son of
Kish, sent out to seek my father's asses, -and lo!
I have found three !"
Space is wanting to relate more of the many
amusing anecdotes told of this extraordinary man.
He had a family of twelve children and three sons
survived him. His youngest son, William Gibbons,

1832)
47
Meeting with James S. Gibbons
was early destined by his father for the medical
profession and studied medicine with Dr. Wm.
Darlington, the well-known physician and botanist
of Chester County. He settled in Wilmington,
Delaware, where he soon rose to the head of his
profession. He, too, was a linguist and mathe-
matician, a man of dignified and gracious manners,
and an influential member of the Society of Friends.
He married Rebecca Donaldson, the daughter of a
Revolutionary soldier of Scotch ancestry ; a noble,
large-hearted woman, of clear brain and great ex-
ecutive ability, who bore him nine sons and five
daughters, all of whom (with one exception) lived
to maturity, and inherited in no small degree their
father's mental aptitude. Of this family of thir-
teen, James Sloan, who was to become the hus-
band of Abby Hopper, was the second son.
He was, when Abby first knew him, a tall, slen-
der young man, with clearly cut and rather aqui-
line features, brilliant, dark eyes, and a rich
complexion ; enthusiastic in temperament, warm-
hearted, generous, high-spirited, and hopeful. As
he was engaged in a business partnership with
Abby's brother-in-law, Jonathan Palmer, in Phila-
delphia, it was natural that the young people
should be much together, and the intimacy de-
veloped rapidly, although, for a time, it seemed
to be on the basis of friendship only. Indeed, the
announcement of their engagement was a surprise
to all their friends, except, perhaps, the eldest sis-
ter, Sarah, who had seen the progress of the affair.

48
Abby bopper Gibbons
(1831-
FRAGMENT FROM JAMES'S JOURNAL WRITTEN
FOR HIS GRANDCHILDREN.
66
mo.,
· Fourth 26, 1884.
“A little under fourscore years have I been in
this world, and in the course of nature I have but
few more to add to them here. My memory is
clear back almost to the very beginning of my
journey on earth. I remember myself in frocks,
somewhere about three years of age, toddling
about in front of my father's house, in the then
'borough town,' as it was called, of Wilmington,
in the State-little like myself—of Delaware. Sol-
diers were straggling in rough fashion down the
street. It must have been in 1813, as they were
soldiers of the late war' (1812), possibly going
home, for the fighting was over in that part of the
country. My father had just built a house, a
homestead, in the suburbs of the town, and a body
of the discharged troops took possession of it one
cold winter night, and pretty work they made of
it! The plaister was not yet hard, and they
scratched names and figures in it with their bay-
onet points. I remember often studying, and
looking curiously, at those marks many years later,
and telling my playmates how they were made.
I used to tell all I knew, and more, about the sol-
diers—how they fought the battle of Brandywine,
—which I insisted on remembering, until I was
old enough to know better. I told them how the
vandals had burned up twenty-four cords of hick-
ory wood, and set the house on fire, destroying the

1832)
49
Meeting with James 5. Gibbons
mantel-pieces and other wood work. The damage
was soon repaired mainly, and the family moved
in, and it became our homestead in or about the
year 1814.
“I was then four years old. We moved into it
in the winter time, when there was snow enough
on the ground for my one older brother to pull me
along on a sled, with a small mirror in my lap. So
I really did my part, though a little part it was,
towards helping to make a homestead of the
house.
“Years after this, I see an old colored woman,
a giantess in my eyes, known in the family as
'Aunt Sarah'-her last name Rhodes. A faith-
ful servant was she, for a number of years, in our
household. I see her now with a bright-colored
'kerchief tied turban-wise on her head.
“Aunt Sarah Rhodes' was a character. She
was large and rather raw-boned. In later years,
my mother took a little colored girl to bring up'
as the phrase was. .. One little event made
an indelible impression on my mind in connection
with that girl. She had offended 'Aunt Sarah'in
some way, or done some mischief that threw the
old woman into a hot passion. In a second, she
struck her with her fist and laid her flat as a dead
log. The poor thing was not much hurt by the
blow. We were troubled to get servants in that
day, as we are now. Delaware was a hard place.
It was middle ground between slavery and free-
dom. Wilmington was more than seven
eight miles from the boundary line of Pennsylva-
no
or
4

50
[1831-
Ebby bopper Gibbons
nia, and many fugitive slaves passed through on
their way to the North Star Slave dealers pur-
sued them. A Society was formed there to pro-
tect free colored people from the kidnappers. The
members were mostly Quakers. My father was
one of the active and interested members. He
used to be called up at night sometimes to hide
runaways or help them on their way. We had an
indentured free colored man, named Tom Chance,
who did not return one dark and stormy night
from the druggist's, where he had been sent for
medicines. It was immediately suspected that
the kidnappers had got hold of him. The aboli-
tionists were all in arms. They scoured the town,
visited all the toll gates, and places that might give
news of strangers coming and going. All night
they hunted for the poor fellow without success.
The next morning cleared up the mystery. A fa-
vorite horse, Old Jack,' lay wet and shivering with
a broken leg. Tom came back after two or three
nights' sleeping under a haystack, and told how he
had thrown a brickbat at the horse to drive him
out of the garden. It struck the poor creature in
a weak place and broke the thighbone. There he
lay helpless; he could not get up. A cold rain-
storm made him tremble as a man trembles with
the ague. My mother sent blankets and a carpet
to cover him from the cold. But a horse with a
broken leg can no longer be of any use. Tom
was reproved and was a better man after that.
The Delaware laws were hard on the colored
people. One caught stealing had the soft part of

1832]
51
Meeting witb James S. Gibbons
one of his ears cut off-cropped,' as it was called.
So that, whenever a colored girl applied for house
service, her ears were always examined the first
thing
"There was a constable in the town whose name
was Park Mason, who was a terror to the blacks ;
and in fact, to all wrongdoers white or black. He
was a vindictive fellow, hated by everybody. The
popular hatred extended to his family—unjustly,
no doubt, but the Quakers had so impressed the
people with their own prejudice against kidnap-
pers, that there was no getting over it. Park
Mason was always ready to kidnap a free man or
woman for a few dollars, although he knew that
the victim's fate was perpetual bondage, with every
species of cruel oppression and ill treatment.
From that day to this, in which I am now writ-
ing, a space of over three score years and ten,
my heart's pulses have never ceased to throb with
warmer and more active sensibility whenever mem-
ory or imagination has brought that dear spot of
that precious homestead before my mental vision.
I cannot pretend to be accurate in my chronology of
events at so remote a period ; and it is of little mo-
ment now, or ever will be, to those who come after.
“I see a square house of solid brick, large for
the time, with a piazza in front supported by pil-
lars of wood, making a pleasant walk in dull
weather, and railed its entire length. Its front
looks northward, parallel with the main road,
which runs westward to the richest and best culti-
vated lands of the continent, directly towards the
66

52
[1831-
Abby bopper Gibbons
6
battle ground where La Fayette flushed his sword
in the cause of American liberty. My father must
have had some prescience in the building of that
house.
"Doctor,' so spake to him some of his friends;
what is thee about? Why, it is big enough for a
regiment of militia !'
“Little did he think that, at that very moment,
there was a regiment of raw militia marching from
the bloody field of Brandywine, and that it would
occupy the house (as already related) and that the
soldiers would leave their vandal marks in the yet
undried plaister.
“His prescience had no relation, however, to the
military occupancy of the house, but to the troop
of children that were destined to inhabit it. The
writer of these memorabilia looks back with singu-
lar interest to a kind of review of which he has
many a time been a witness, namely: the spectacle
of a baker's dozen of children, ranged in the order
of their ages, and forming the descent of regular
steps, from the eldest, six feet in stature, to the
infant sitting in its mother's lap, let me say. I
verily believe that no patriarch ever looked on a
spectacle such as that, with deeper feelings of af-
fectionate pride, than did that dear father of his
flock, on the occasion of the review, to answer the
question,
Doctor, how many children hast thou?' In-
stead of giving a verbal answer, he called out his
little army, and answered more demonstratively
by their personal exhibition.
666

1832)
53
meeting witb James S. Gibbons
“My recollection of the increase of the flock,
following my own advent, begins at the sixth, a
sister, and the first girl born to my parents. The
first five births were boys. Well do I remember a
certain morning, when old 'Aunt Sarah Rhodes'
announced to us four boys that she had brought
us all a little sister. And her name, Sarah Eleanor,
was duly recorded in the family Bible, in com-
memoration of a grandmother on one side of the
house and an aunt on the other. I have omitted
to state the fact that the first child died before the
birth of the second. This left an established flock
of thirteen to crown the homestead. I remember
hearing my father say, after the complement was
made, that he thought it was something of a
scratch to keep the mealbag full' when he found
the increase springing so vigorously.”
JAMES S. GIBBONS TO ISAAC T. HOPPER.
66
Philadelphia, ni mo. 9th, 1831.
“Dear Friend Isaac T. Hopper.
“My freedom on this occasion will be excused
by the nature and importance of the subject which
I am about to introduce, and which, but for the
circumstances of my situation in regard to pecuni-
ary prospects, would not have been delayed quite
as long as it has. Thou art aware,
inti-
macy with thy family has been of tolerably long
standing, and I may express my acknowledgments
that it has been uninterrupted and mutual ; but
more particularly with Abby, on whose account,
that
my

54
(1831-
Abby bopper Gibbons
66
and with her consent, I now address thee. We
have been on terms of intimacy for a considerable
time, and with a view toward a connexion still
more so at a future time and proper season, I
throw the subject before thee.
"It will be proper to state that, without presum-
ing upon thy decision, I have conversed with my
parents concerning it, and they have separately
given an expression of entire unity. Although I
have so far made use of the singular language, this
letter will be considered as equally addressed to
Friend Hopper. With the hope of hearing from
you as early as may be agreeable and convenient,
I am your affectionate friend,
“James S. Gibbons.
“Isaac T. Hopper,
“ Hannah Hopper."
ISAAC T. HOPPER TO JAMES S. GIBBONS.
66
“ New-York, 12 mo. 9th, 1831.
Dear friend,
" James S. Gibbons, I received thy letter of
II mo. 9th last, a few days after it was written,
and should have replied to it sooner, but I have
been so much in disposed as to render writing diffi-
cult. The subject alluded to in it was entirely new
to me, and, being one of much interest, has ob-
tained, I trust, due consideration. My daughter's
comfort and welfare is very nearly allied to my
own, and, although I feel much in the prospect of
her leaving my family, I believe it right for me to
say, that I find no cause to put any obstacle in the

1832]
55
Meeting with James S. Gibbons
way of your proceeding as thou hast proposed. In
coming to this conclusion, it has been a great satis-
faction to be informed that thou hast laid the
matter before thy parents, and that they have ex-
pressed their unity with your prospect. My wife
unites with me herein.
“Thy affectionate friend,
Isaac T. Hopper."
SARAH TO ABBY.
“ Second day morning, 1831.
"I received thy interesting letter, which did not
so much surprise me (of course) as if I had not
had it rung into my ears so incessantly for the last
three months. One thing, I must confess, puzzles
me-thy feeling it to be such a trial to reveal it to
us-to me, in particular. Thee knows my opinion
of James. I expressed it when I had not the
most distant idea of anything more than a social
tie. It remains unchanged, and I pay him the
greatest compliment by saying that I shall adopt
him as a brother, and that I believe you to be
worthy of each other. I do think you congenial
minds, and him the only man I have ever seen that
would suit thee. I hope fortune will turn her
wheel so far as to make it proper for a further step
in due time. But, my dear sister, thee knows the
necessary expenses of a family are imperious, and
continual, and I want you to
ke this in view. I
have too high an opinion of the sincerity of his
attachment, and of his goodness of heart, to sup-

56
Abby hopper Gibbons
[1831-
pose that he would be willing to urge thee into
difficulties. Yet I cannot help having an eye to
future prospects. I know this—at least, I think so
—that he has good talents and is industrious and
economical; and I know that these constitute a
fortune, or at least, a resource, in themselves. I
know, too, that we can be happy with comparatively
little ; that much money don't add to happiness.
“The prospect of having thee near us will make
me wish the time to pass swiftly and prosperously
—and yet, how will they do without thee at home?
I declare, I wonder what they will do.
Ι
have a hundred plans for you.
“About my getting to New York, I can't tell. I
am wild to see thee. Notwithstanding, I want, at
this moment, to call thee a naughty, deceiving,
unconfiding girl. How could thee keep it so long
from me? I've a great mind I won't love him,
for spite'; thee may read this to James, if thee
will ; it is not designed to flatter, but is the true
state of my mind at this time.
“ You wicked Yorkers ! how can you disgrace
the Society so? Just as if we had not enough be-
fore, to crucify us! Do send a letter by James,
with particulars, and I will burn it. Don't, for
pity's sake, let it be a year before thee comes.
Adieu—thy affectionate sister and mother, for
such are my feelings concerning thee, at this
moment,
"S. H. P."
66

1832]
57
Meeting witb James S. Gibbons
SARAH TO ABBY.
“Philada, 12 mo., 18th, 1831.
"The other evening, as Jonathan, James, William,
and I were sitting in the parlour, in full confabula-
tion, Uncle Josiah came in. We spent a comfort-
able evening, on the whole, yet the way seemed, -
as of latter day it has done,-closed up; which
sort of reserve always chills the intercourse be-
tween Friends and Orthodox, and gives the heart-
ache even where warm friendship once existed. I
may confess, I've grieved over these things long
enough, but it cannot cease to be so while memory
lasts. Yet I desire to form a little circle for our
children without reference to the cataracts and
breakers which have interposed in my path. We
talked of politics and matrimony etc., and we all
tried to be agreeable ; but, as to feeling at ease, it
was out of the question.
“... If James does n't tell the whole truth, and
nothing but the truth, about your engagement, I'll
have him called to an account.
Deborah ques-
tioned me and I did not deny. Why should I?
So long as any preliminaries were unsettled, I was
true as the needle. I am as good a mason as
Only think how she would make white black, and
black white."
FROM D. F. WHARTON.
“I have just been telling thy own dear James,
who left here a few minutes ago, that I had thought
of writing to thee, but, on reflection, apprehended

58
(1831-
Abby 'bopper Gibbons
the present opportunity not a favourable one. But
the inclination to assure thee and thy sister Rachel
that I feel much interest in your proposed move-
ments, has induced me to write a few lines, and
shouldst thou let them remain unanswered, and
even unread, untill after the visit of thy friend is
over, shall not feel myself slighted, knowing his
visits are few and far between’ and perhaps, in
consequence, more precious.
"Well, it has turned out just as William and I have
long thought-and, I was going to say, prophesied
—tho' I don't like the word. Thou hast never
asked my consent, but I am free to give it—not
feeling or seeing any objections to the young man,
if thou hast altered the resolution I think thou
once professed to have come to, to lead a life of
'single blessedness.' Thou knows I consider it a
serious thing to enter into the bands of Matrimony;
nevertheless, I am not disposed to discourage it in
all cases. I could not raise a finger to discourage
any right connexion.
“That thine and thy dear sister's may be of this
class, is my ardent wish—that the lapse of years
may prove them of the number of ‘matches made
in Heaven,' and that you and your dear partners
may together traverse the pathway which leads
thereto.
“The prospect of having thee again reside
among us, is truly pleasant, tho' it will not be re-
alized immediately.
“Tell Rachel I feel no objection to her proceed-
ing, though I am not so well prepared to give my

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Meeting with James S. Gibbons
consent in her case, not having any knowledge of
her chosen partner. I trust, however, she has been
judicious in her choice of a companion for life,
and have no reason to doubt her judgment. I
have long felt much interest in both of you, and
most sincerely wish you happiness.
Thou wilt hear all the news, without my aid,
and, as my motive for writing at present is to say a
little on the important subject,'having somewhat
relieved my mind, will leave the rest of the sheet
for my own chosen one to fill, not doubting but he
will do it better."
In the beginning of the year 1832, the Hopper
family were thrown into the greatest affliction, by
the illness and death of their idol, little Tom, who
died of scarlet fever, at the tender age of three
years. He was a child of unusual beauty and
promise, and the blow was a crushing one. His
death was followed immediately by that of his baby
sister, Hannah.
FROM ABBY.
“New York, and mo., 14th, 1832.
“My dear brothers and sister can have some idea
of our exceeding sorrow at parting with our beau-
tiful idol. We all loved him too much, and I have
made up my mind never to allow myself to become
so devotedly attached to any child. Oh, my dear
sister, if thou couldst only have known his loveli-
ness and all his winning ways,' thou mightst with
us feel the agony of parting. He was lovely in life

60
[1831-
Abby hopper Gibbons
66
and in death, beautiful to look upon, sensible to
the last moment. Within half an hour of his death,
he asked me, by name, to lay him on the bed, and
then said, 'lay down by me;' put his hand on my
face, and turned it close to his. But, dear little
angel, he was so oppressed, he could not endure it,
and, in less than five minutes, said “Abby, nurse
me.' I took him on my lap and held him until
about fifteen minutes before he breathed his last,
when Mary Hicks, our very kind and attentive
friend, took him out of my arms. I stood by her
side and saw him pass away sweetly and without a
struggle, which we considered a great favour.
A few minutes before, I had the family called
who were all present. Sister Rachel, the last few
days, could not bear to witness his sufferings and
was seldom in the room. I slept in the room every
night and often had him in bed with me; fre-
quently took my meals with the precious treasure
in my arms. I felt as if I must administer to every
want to the very last moment. . We placed
him in the dark room, between father's and the
front, where I slept and where little Hannah was
very low—the most heavenly sight I ever beheld.
A friend, when looking at him, exclaimed, he
looks like an angel, too beautiful for earth.' I
curled his hair just before he was placed in the
coffin for the last time. I felt as if I could not
iet him go.
“.. The morning he died, he kept me
singing to him constantly—asked me to sing 'Little
boy Blewit blowing his horn,' etc., and when I

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Meeting with James S. Gibbons
began anything else, would say: 'stop singing
that,' and I again repeated the other. How we
shall miss him! I have been accustomed to take
him to Meeting, and, occasionally, to school-
always glad to have him with me.
"You have, ere this, heard of the departure of
dear little Hannah, who passed away sweetly in my
arms, about ten or fifteen minutes after the family
returned from the burial of our dearest idol. My
sorrow on this occasion is for mother, who keenly
feels the stripping, and was, I think, more attached
to Hannah. She has been frequently sick and
required more of her mother's attention ; I had
never seen so much of her. Thomas had so en-
tirely entwined himself around my heart, that it
was indeed a bitter stroke to have him taken away.
They were both buried in white pine coffins and
laid side by side.
'We had many kind friends, yet we were neces-
sarily obliged to endure a great deal of fatigue. I
was up the greater part of every night with Thomas ;
when he called me, I could not rest. The Doctor
often charged me to be careful, and frequently
said: 'I don't know what thee 's made of ; stouter
stuff than common folks.' * I have not yet been
out nor shall I risk it while the walking is so bad.
I believe I have learned with thee, my
dear sister, to be reconciled to these changes-and,
on such occasions, to be, in some measure, com-
posed-in the late affliction, I have found it neces-
* Both Abby and her mother were at this time recovering
from scarlet fever.
.

62
(1831-
Elbby bopper Gibbons
66
sary, for the comfort of those about me. Employ-
ment has had the effect to alleviate my sorrow.
We feel very solitary—but eleven left, including
our domestics, one of which we shall soon part
with.
“Mother is composed ; often weeps quietly-
grief and anxiety altered her looks greatly, but she
is now, after a season of rest, resuming her usual
appearance.
It was a great trial parting with James, and I
felt for a time as if I could not endure it. When I
see thee I will tell thee of his goodness. He was a
faithful nurse, gentle in his movements—indeed,
every action was beautiful, and I am sure thou
wouldst have admired him. Mother, in speaking
of him yesterday, to Mary Hallett, said,' he is with-
out exception, the most respectful in manner of
any young man I ever met with.' Father is also
very fond of him.”
ABBY TO SARAH.
" New York, 3rd mo. 23rd, 1832.
“I have been trying all the week to steal a mo-
ment to devote to thee, but didst thou know how
closely I am confined to the school etc., thou
wouldst be ready to excuse me.
From nine to five
I seldom pass an idle five minutes. The three
quarters of an hour at noon are devoted to making
ready for a sewing class, which we have not hither-
to been persecuted with ; but for the satisfaction
of some of the parents, we agree to give that time

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Meeting with James S. Gibbons
every afternoon and take the classes in turn. Of
evenings, I must make the needle fly, or Rachel
will be left in the lurch. Moreover, I've had no
ideas. I declare I never felt so sad and sorry as
of late ; today, am brighter than usual and shall
take advantage of my comfortable feelings; attrib-
ute the amendment to a long walk after school,
although my 'understandings are not improved
thereby. All this a preface! Well, excuse me
this once.
I don't always do so!
“Tell Josiah that ' Lucy' has two kittens a week
old. We drowned four and concluded to keep
Timothy' and 'Tabby.' A few days before
Lucy's' kittens arrived, Father enquired if her
curtains were up.
“Please do not expose this forlorn scrap for my
credit's sake ; am really ashamed.”
6
6
Abby writes thus from Philadelphia, where she
had gone to take care of her sister Sarah's children;
the latter being in New York, on a visit to her
parents.
“ Friday Evening, 1832.
"Dear Mother,
" The children all went to Meeting to-day and
I think I have a very consoling piece of intelligence
for Sarah. Her son Ned is likely to be a true
disciple of Susan Cox's. When Susan knelt, Ned
followed her example, and remained on his knees
until she had finished. I made an attempt to get
him up, but there he would stay as long as she did.
... Susan preached and prayed about an hour

64
(1831-
Abby bopper Gibbons
and a half this morning. When she finished preach-
ing, she set off to go to her seat, but turned about
and knelt. I never saw Cherry St. Meeting more
disturbed ; many of our worthies kept their seats ;
among them, James Cockburn, B. Tucker, and all
our overseers ; Susan Pusey and Mary Biddle in-
cluded-and Anna Morris, of all things ! Indeed,
very many kept their seats, and general dissatisfac-
tion was manifested to a degree I never saw before.
She made a quotation from Dr. Johnson. Lydia
Townsend said she wished Sarah Palmer had been
there. She said, too, she had been trying to moder-
ate John Rakestraw, he was so out of patience ;
but I told her she was a poor hand.
“Now Mother, I want thee to write and tell me
all about the children. I want to see them desper-
ately. ... I'm very pleasantly situated here but
I want to see you all wonderfully.
Abby.”
TO JOSIAH.
... The robbers are again in our neighbor-
hood-took from our opposite neighbour in the
brick house, several surtouts, a gold watch, and
some silver spoons. Several other houses have been
broken open, but not ours, yet. During Father's
absence, we burn a lamp in the front and back
chamber. One night, I imagined some one was
boring at the back parlour window. I got up and
hoisted the chamber window, and discovered it
was a queer noise the shutter made. Now don't
laugh at my contrivance. Thee knows the robbers

1832]
65
Meeting witb James S. Gibbons
enter universally at the back basement windows.
Well, I got a piece of twine, and tied one end to a
hook and the other to a flatiron, the which was
suspended below, so that if an effort was made to
open the shutter, down would come the iron ; to
their great alarm and ours too. Guess the villains
would run. Now, if thee don't say I am very in-
genious, I shall not be pleased.
Deborah Field and Mary Cromwell
prophecy that our Sally will preach. Tell her this
language arises'; 'not at this time,' for her credit's
sake.
66
TO SARAH AND HER BROTHERS.
66
“ New York, 5th mo. 5th, 1832.
Have arrived at school an hour before the
time, and, although I could find plenty to do, I
am more disposed to employ it in writing, just to
say we are all well, in the midst of house-cleaning,
and obliged to manage as well as we can with a
New York brush. Mother bids me say “trouble
thyself no further ; bring thyself, and we care
naught for the whitewash concern.'
“We shall have no school next week. Friends
took into consideration the condition of our affairs,
and agreed that it should be suspended—a fine
thing* I shall have plenty of employment. Must
now say farewell.”
Abby's sister Rachel was about to be married.
5

66
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Elbby 'ibopper Gibbons
TO WILLIAM AND DEBORAH F. WHARTON.
“New-York, 6 mo., 4th, 1832.
Unaccountable that the most welcome letter of
my dear friends, William and Deborah, should so
long remain unacknowledged. The love I feel for
you and the circumstance of 'my own dear James'
being the bearer, would alone induce me to pay
early attention thereto. I must differ from Deb-
orah and agree with her husband, that the fact of
your letter having passed through James's hands
greatly increased its value ; for surely, when he is
a partaker, my enjoyments are tenfold. I was
highly gratified to discover that my moveinents
were satisfactory. I well recollect a conversation
on the subject, before we had a thought of the
kind. It appears you had a 'clearer vision 'than
some nearer home.
No doubt it will appear
strange to many, but of 'foreign remarks' we are
independent, if our own dear friends are at rest
thereupon. For thy contribution towards the ac-
complishment of the work, Deborah, please accept
our united thanks-it is very handsome and we
value it for the Donor's sake.My James' marked
them for us, and I have a mind to tell thee how I
was taken in. I was speaking of the gift, and took
up one, supposing it to be sister Rachel's, to hand
it to Ruth Chase—when lo! my initials appeared.
As I had said nothing of my own, it was rather
provoking. The mistake amused Ruth vastly.
She laughed and said I deserved no credit at all.
“Sister Rachel is busily employed in making

1832]
67
Meeting with James S. Gibbons
preparation for the approaching season, which is
truly an important event in one's life. When I
look so far into the future as to bid adieu to home,
and leave it lonely and alone, my feelings are in-
describable. How many changes in our immedi-
ate family within a very few years! We have
much enjoyed the company of our Southern
friends, particularly our very dear Uncle John,
who, likewise, expressed his satisfaction with the
connexion in sister Rachel's case, as well as ours.
He visited considerably and appeared delighted
with all around him ; was exceedingly interested
in the Meet'g, and, truly, there was more to excite
interest than at any I have hitherto attended.
The most conspicuous and active Friends on our
side of the house were Margaret Brown and Lydia
P. Mott; the latter, for beautifully correct views,
elegance of expression, and dignified movement-
I was going to say—surpasses any woman of the
age. She had much to say upon a variety of sub-
jects; beautifully addressed parents in the middle
and younger walks of life; entreating them to the
instructing of their daughters in domestic affairs,
considering a home education of the greatest im-
portance; saying that every daughter should be
actively employed in her father's family; share in
the various kinds of labour, and be fitted for every
station in life ; so that, if not required to labour
from necessity, by having a proper knowledge of
domestic duties, she may be qualified to discharge
faithfully her trust, and know what to require of
those in her employ. I wish I could give it to

68
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Abby bopper Gibbons
thee in her impressive language. She is, certainly,
a very superior woman. There was some diver-
sity of sentiment, but all ended harmoniously.
Would speak at large of our proceedings, was it
not concluded the fragments should be gathered,
and, when done, you shall have the reading of
them.”
ABBY TO SARAH.
.
“ New-York, 7th mo., 23rd, 1832.
"I am early to school, that I may offer whatso
may be cheering, and relieve you, perhaps, from
some anxiety.. .. Father informed us of the
sudden departure of our worthy townsman, An-
drew Cock, which circumstance has occasioned
great alarm, as he was known to be a regular, tem-
perate man.
Almost every case amongst
the respectable classes of society has been traced
to some imprudence. The fourth death occurred
yesterday at the corner of Broome and Eldredge;
there are several families in the house, and not of
the most genteel order. We have felt that our
prospects were indeed gloomy for the last few
days, but the report of yesterday being more
favorable, bids us hope at least that circumstances
may change. Father keeps admirably well, which
is almost unlooked for, knowing him to be subject
to alarming attacks of cholera morbus. Since
Susan has been sick, I have slept in the dark
room, with the door next to father's open; he
wakes me regularly between three and four, and
* This was the year of the cholera.

1832]
69
Meeting witb James S. Gibbons
thee would laugh to hear our luminous discourses.
We sometimes make thee the subject-imagine
what thee is doing, saying, how acting, etc. This
morning is beautiful and we all seem cheery, save
mother, who does not gain strength as fast as we
should like. She has been a good deal excited
with the state of things and, we think, has been
exceedingly nervous.”
ABBY TO SARAH.
66
'New-York, 9th mo., 13th, 1832.
From day to day we have been looking for a
letter, but all in vain. I was weary of waiting,
but could not, amid my various duties, steal a
smitchett of time to snatch
up
the
pen.
Have not
been the brightest the last two weeks, owing to
almost incessant headache, for the reason of which
I cannot account. Nor do I get much pity, for I
am told by all how well I look. Last Seventh
day evening, Sister Rachel was taken sick ; Sam-
uel went early for Dr. Cheeseman, who told her
she must be carefully nursed ; that her sickness
was a 'touch of the times,' and that one of her
sisters had better be sent for. I left school and
went immediately ; staid all day, but went home
at night, mother being with Elizabeth Hopkins,
and I was fearful father would have a fit of the
gripes. Morning, however, found us well, but
Sister Rachel still more indisposed. Mother
passed the day with her, and I went up after
school ; remained during the night, that I might
ease her mind in the morning' by making a loaf
6

70
(1831-32
Abby bopper Gibbons
or two of bread. 'Samuel is so fond of home-
made, with Indian,' she says. Yesterday she was
much better.
“In our part of the town little is known or heard
of the cholera. In Greenwich, the last week, it
has been dreadful. One night, nine deaths within
a few yards of R. Cromwell's, and, in one block,
thirty new cases and twenty-eight deaths. This
week, it appears to be decreasing and less alarm is
the consequence."
SARAH TO ABBY.
“ Philada, 12th mo. lith, 1832.
“Yesterday, I went with James to look at some
chairs. He took half a dozen very handsome, neat,
fancy rush-seated, and a delightful rocking chair,
without arms, to match them. I recommended one
without arms, as it will be more convenient to sew
in, and if he should want one with arms, it will be
as easy to get one later as now. We intend-I
mean, James and I concluded—to get a cherry bed-
stead like mine in the back chamber ; a maple cor-
nice will be seven dollars ; now please consider
whether thee would prefer giving twenty dollars for
such an one; or have a feal, or field (for I'll be
whipped if I know how to spell it). The room
shall be neatly furnished and in order just fit for
Mrs. Bride. The carpet is neat as wax-two greens
and after James' own heart-so, of course, it must
be handsome. .. One thing—I 've treated
myself to some goldbanded cups and saucers, for
the brides. I mean, to entertain them with.

CHAPTER V.
1833-1834.
MARRIAGE.
J
AMES SLOAN GIBBONS and Abby Hopper
were married according to the order of
Friends, in the Meeting House, in New York,
on the fourteenth of the Second month, 1833. It
was a union in which husband and wife shared the
same fine tastes and were animated by the same
high purposes ; where mutual affection and confi-
dence were united with strong individual charac-
teristics ; and this union lasted in undiminished
strength and tenderness through the changing for-
tunes of nearly sixty years.
We find an account of Abby's wedding dress in
a letter from her sister Mary.
" Abby's wedding dress was what was called in
the old days "tea-colored' Turk satin.
made with surplice waist gathered in at the belt
front and back; was plain on the shoulders, high
neck, had small leg o' mutton sleeves, with a thin,
silky material in the neck and at the wrists. She
wore a white camel's hair shawl and white kid gloves.
Her bonnet was of the finest split straw, of the
shape called 'cottage,' with white ribbon strings
It was
71

72
[1833-
Abby bopper Gibbons
coming from the sides half way from the top, and
having a white silk cape at the back."
The wedding dress has been referred to before
as the gift of Elizabeth Hicks. It was carried off at
the sacking of the Gibbons house, in the riots of '63,
and afterwards recovered, having been decorated
in the meantime with colored trimming, to suit the
more florid taste of its temporary possessor.
James and Abby began their married life in
Philadelphia, boarding for a few months with
Abby's sister, Sarah H. Palmer.
The following letters describe the visit to James's
family in Wilmington and the beginning of their
married life.
TO HER MOTHER, HANNAH HOPPER.
" Philadelphia, 3rd mo. 17th, 1833.
“I should not so long delay the performance of
this duty, but will honestly confess the change of
times has so disarranged me, that I have not been,
at any moment, sufficiently collected to take up the
pen, and have consequently neglected my family
and friends longer than I can reconcile to myself.
Receiving visits and nursing my husband, has been
my employment the greater portion. He was taken
sick immediately on our return from Wilmington,
and has been, until yesterday, confined to his room,
and pretty much to his bed, with very sore throat
and fever. On Fifth day last, Father Gibbons
came up purposely to see him, under an impression
made by one of William's letters, that he was seri-
ously indisposed,

18341
73
Marriage
"I can tell thee, I perform admirably ; have
called him doctor twice, but, with a grace, pro-
nounced the word father'; he always meets me and
takes leave with a kiss, and has from the first intro-
duction, manifested great kindness and attention.
“And now for a history of our Wilmington visit !
We left Philada on Seventh day afternoon; were
late in getting to the Boat but William Gibbons,
who accompanied us, told the Captain we were
just married and had not got to our senses, in
consideration of which, he waited ten minutes.
An early hour found us at Wilmington, where Dr.
Harry was in waiting with a sleigh, and escorted
us to our father's residence. All the children
(thirteen) were present. Those unknown to me
were separately introduced, and the younger part
gazed upon me so intently, that my risibles were
not a little excited. They soon became familiar,
and conversed freely and sociably, as though of long
acquaintance. Supper was prepared, when father
and mother, surrounded by their fourteen children
(including my estimable self), were seated thereto.
"After tea, we returned to the parlour, where soon
appeared some of mother's nieces and nephews,
who expressed their congratulations, and the even-
ing passed cheerily, though I was not unmindful
of absent friends, particularly my dear father, who
had journeyed homewards the same day, and, I
was aware, must experience much inconvenience
from cold. I was spared some anxious feeling,
not hearing, till my return, of the fate of the
passengers; when I found a letter with intelli-

74
[1833-
Elbby bopper Gibbons
gence of his safe return, after pretty severe hard-
ships.
“Well, next morning being First day, we went
to Meeting, father with the young ones first, and
Harry, Sarah Ellen, James and myself, following
in a sleigh. Went to Meeting again in the after-
noon but
ten o'clock found us at home,
where, after a few minutes pleasant conversation,
father read a chapter and then bade all retire-or,
rather invited.
TO HER SISTER SUSAN.
(6
· Philada, 7th mo. Ist, 1833.
'How I want to see you in your new house! I
cannot pay you an imaginary visit now, as I often
did in Allen St.
Be careful of thy likes and dislikes, and remem-
ber that we all err. If thy friend should, at any
time, offend thee, guard thy words and actions,
and be assured, that kindness, in return, will yield
thee more peace, than indulging a disposition to
resent the injury. This I have experienced ;
therefore, profit by the advice. We are too apt
to be affected by trifles ; let them pass unnoticed.
I hope thou canst read the above."
TO ABBY FROM HER FATHER.
“New-York, roth mo, 14th, 1833.
“My dear daughter,
Abigail H. Gibbons,
Now, as to poor Polly, thou must know
that her mother's life is bound up with the
66

1834]
75
Marriage
damsel's life,' and if it should come to pass that
the little lass should not return to her mother, she
would die. However, I am of the opinion that
she will be with you before long. At present, she
has a sore eye; and another cause for procrasti-
nating her visit, her mother says, is ‘she is not
ready'; thou wilt understand what that means-
new clothes, etc. Mary, I think, 'carries the bell'
at school, of which she is very fond-learns fast
and has the good will of her teachers—but after
all, she says, 'if mother don't let me go, I shall run
away to sister Abby.' She is delighted with a pros-
pect of a visit to Philadelphia,
“We have got fixed in our kitchen a range, or
cooking apparatus, to burn coal, which answers
nicely. We have also got in our front parlour, a
very clever grate, and intend to enjoy the comforts
of a good coal fire this winter.
“ Isaac T. Hopper."
TO SAMUEL AND RACHEL BROWN.
“ Philada, rith mo, 6th, 1833.
“I own, my long silence may wear the aspect of
neglect, and if thou hadst first been married,
Rachel, and then prepared for housekeeping, thou
might have a sort of idea how I am at present
occupied. As it is, I conceive it to be impossible
for thee to judge aught of the state of things.
When I came to 31 New St., I had but one solitary
Tablecloth, and not a change of bed-clothes ; but
the present week has at least supplied me with

76
[1833-
Elbby bopper Gibbons
the needful for our getting along comfortably. We
have made a very respectable appearance, and
anyone who has visited us, might say we were
surrounded with every convenience; but then, they
were not aware I had been obliged to borrow from
my sister Sally, whose generosity has been, and
continues, unbounded. But for her I should have
illy fared, I assure thee.
“Now, had I not been made sick by some of thy
doses, I might say that my husband is, (as I have
before asserted), just such an one as few possess
and all may envy. No wish is left ungratified.
Unsolicited, every want is abundantly supplied ;
and if I am not the happiest of wives, it is not
his fault. I cannot but wish that our very dear
father and family, including you, were so near us
that we might exchange visits of an evening.
This, added to our countless enjoyments, would
complete our paradise.
ABBY TO THE FAMILY AT HOME.
66..
“Philada, 11 mo, 26, 1833.
. I have been without 'help,' (to use
a New-York expression) and to prevent a 'muss,
as Mary Hallett says, have been obliged to exertise
myself. And my quilting, too, is but just accom-
plished. One of James' cousins from Wilmington
has been spending a week or two with us, and
were we not smart to quilt four comforts in hree
days? We make and bake our own bread, and,
as I am my own trumpeter, when no opportunity

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occurs for my husband to tell what he knows, I
will say that every loaf has been manufactured by
my own hands; and, James says, 'so good, it
would do honour to any Table.'
“Mother Gibbons passed a couple of days here
last week, and finding me without assistance, de-
spatched a person she had in her employ, to stay
until I could be suited. Sent me some pickled
herring, too, and Father Gibbons is going to
supply our Winter potatoes
...
"Mary is sitting by hemming a handkerchief for
herself; is happy as the day is long ; has no notion
of going home this Winter. Indeed, I cannot well
spare her; she is excellent company and a nice
errand girl.
You may assure Mary Hal-
lett, she is so far Christianized, that she would
actually pass for a Philadelphian.
"I wish you were here to see how and where we
all live. Mother must come for Mary when she
wants her. I was thinking our next ‘Yearly'
would bring her, at any rate, and we shall expect
to see our dear father before long. Sarah and
myself have had several battles, but I assure her
he will not be so cruel as to pass us by, and parade
up to Ninth Street ; she had no business to go so
far out of the way. I mean, however, to be gen-
erous, and am certain father will give each her
share of the good things of this life. I can be
treated to no dainty more salutary than his de-
lightful society.”

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SARAH TO RACHEL AFTER THE BIRTH OF
ABBY'S FIRST CHILD.
It is very
.
“The baby is about such an one as the best
looking of mine have been.
bright looking, and feels just as if it were my own.
For three days, Abby seemed to take no great
notice of it. She vexed me, for thee knows I can't
bear rational mothers. I wanted her to hug it up,
and to think as thee did, 'That such another,
never woman had.' She now seems very proud of
it, and likes to have it noticed ; which reformation
is quite pleasing. Her attendant say she con-
ducted well—unusually. They laugh a great deal
at me for asking her, in the midst of all, 'Abby,
does thee think thee can bear it?' She answered
in a real School-madam tone : To be sure I can
bear it. I don't expect anybody to do it for me.'
“James is nearly as proud of his boy as Samuel is
of his. Abby and I consulted together, and agreed
not to believe your account of yours.
James and
Abby both declare theirs has laughed out; and
that is quite as incredible as that yours sat alone.
You have both been wearing the President's specs
—twisted for Glory.
“ The baby's name is William Gibbons, after his
grandfather.”
ABBY TO RACHEL, SEVEN WEEKS LATER.
Philada, 3rd mo. 3rd, 1843.
“My boy I have just placed in the cradle, and
take the leisure to thank thee for thy beautiful

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Marriage
blanket which has been very much admired, but
not yet worn, as I am saving it to show off to
advantage.
“Thee must know, I have been a good deal
indisposed, and after Dr. John Moore's service
expired, necessity required that Dr. Shoemaker
should succeed him. Followed by him was Dr.
Wilson Moore, to vaccinate the boy, who did it
divers times without effect. Meantime, he went
to Baltimore on a visit, leaving his patients in care
of Dr. Howell, who called to see us. No wonder
the four doctors in attendance should excite some
interest in the neighbours. Consequently, some
of them called to enquire who was ill, and a few
days since, I thought proper to have the front
windows bowed, to prevent the carpet from fading;
upon which, John Cook's wife sent over to know
who was dead. So thee sees considerable interest
is manifested.
"I seem to have a vast many things to say, but
our boy is impatient to receive attention, and I
must leave thee until a more convenient season.
Mary is well, and she with the rest of us, is feast-
ing in anticipation of father's and mother's com-
pany at the “ Yearly.'.
TO SAMUEL AND RACHEL.
" Philadelphia, 4th mo.
1833
"Well, as I told you before, it is our present
prospect, provided Sarah carries her plan into
effect, to break up housekeeping--no small trial,
after having enjoyed 'the glorious privilege of be-

80
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ing independent.' We have a very pleasant house
and innumerable comforts. Many a time, James
has said, when enjoying the quiet evening in our
dining room : What a Paradise it is!'
But our
castles have fallen to the ground,* and, as on former
occasions, we must submit to circumstances. For
ourselves, I can say we almost lose sight of our
own misfortune, so great has been our sympathy
for Jonathan and Sarah. The former has been
almost despairing, so that, to raise him, we have
been compelled to laugh and make merry. For
myself, I have been on a broad grin ever since.
The condolation visits, together with our different
projects, have afforded abundant variety, though
not of the most salutary kind. Night before last,
the creditors met, and without any exception acted
the part of gentlemen ; manifested a willingness to
come into any measure calculated to relieve
Palmer and Gibbons. Since which, Jonathan is
quite another man.
“I cannot see why people should be unhappy be-
cause they have an occasional up and down in the
world. Some have wondered that James and I
should be so cheerful. James says, did he give up
to despair, it would disqualify him for paying his
debts; and should I fret myself to fiddlestrings,
my milk would dry up and I should have to buy for
our boy, and that expense we can't so well afford
just now. Add to this, a Doctor's bill might be
to pay, and perhaps an undertaker's follow. So we
* The firm of which James was a member had recently
failed.

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Marriage
have resolved to enjoy all there is to enjoy, and
endure cheerfully, what must be endured.
“Please say to Mother we have bread to eat and
raiment to put on, and a bed to accommodate her
with next week. We make no change until after
the 'Yearly,' and I hope she is coming to see how
we are getting along. Give my love to Poll and
tell her · Andrew Cotton'[a doll] has been in the
closet ever since she left; it was very cruel in her
to leave him behind.
"Nothing is yet concluded upon concerning
Palmer & Gibbons' business. James Martin hu-
mourously proposed that their furniture-wives
and children — should be left them ; which was
unanimously assented to by the rest, and things
made as easy as possible.
“I should write oftener but that my sister Sarah
has become such a rattlecap, that she leaves me
not a particle of news. Upon my word, she is the
greatest talker extant. I am a perfect silence com-
pared with her.
"A. H. G."
At this time, Abby went with the little Willie, on
a visit to her father's family. While there, the
question of removal to New-York arose.
JAMES TO ABBY.
66
· Philadelphia, 11th. mo., with, 1834.
“I received thy note by James Mott, and it was
really welcome. Thomas Baldwin's sister expected
to go to New-York this morning, and I had pre-

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pared a poor scrap in return for thine. But the
rain discouraged her, and I have thus additional
time to say what I wished, relative to a proposition
of removal, in case a favorable opening should
appear. The more I look at it, the better I like
it; and, after adding up all my-or rather our-
resources of happiness here, and comparing them
with what we should probably acquire in New-
York, there appears to be no argument against the
possibility, at least, of our being as happy there as
here. Thou, my dearest Abby, knowest what it is
to leave home. Between Philadelphia and Wilming-
ton the distance is so short, that I have always felt
as though I were but on the other side of the way,
comparatively. To increase the distance were to
weaken the delightful association. I have not
found the ties of latter years to be less than those
of minority. But others, different in their nature,
and more closely allied to existence, have been
created. However dear are the former, I must
acknowledge the latter to be superior; and it is
for these more particularly that the future must be
considered. As regards Philadelphia, having some
knowledge of the social relations, which might be
improved in New York, I should leave it with but
little regret-not meaning to insinuate or 'set
down aught in malice' against the many means of
enjoyment it possesses. I believe it cannot be said
that I have ever appeared to be discontented with
my lot ; and when I speak thus in reference to a
removal, I feel that we could be as happy to re-
main as we are, as the happiest of those around us.

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Marriage
It is impossible, however, to say the hundredth
part of what ‘rises with life' without speaking face
to face.
“And now to other matters, for the time is short.
How is dear little Willie ? Did he seem pleased
with the rusk? Oh, how I want to see you both!
As regards coming home, it must not be beyond
Seventh day. If nobody very particular should
appear, would it not be feasible for Josiah to see
you seated in the car at Amboy, and I to meet you
at Bordentown? Don't like the thing a bit—but
the very idea of being disappointed! I want you
to be at home on Seventh day, because I will not
go to the store after our arrival and will have First
day in the bargain. It would be wretched to have
to go to the store the very day after my dear A.
comes home. I shall have a letter in the morning
and learn the very day, the very day, of your coming.
Don't put thy head out of the car windows, and be
down at the boat 15 min. at least, before the hour
of starting. I am so very anxious for your safe
return. And now, dear, with love to our own
family, and a thousand kisses for thyself and Willie,
I am thy ever faithful,
“ Jas. S. Gibbons."
TO JOSIAH FROM ABBY.
Philada, 11th mo. 28th, 1834.
· Our prospects still continue bright as
regards a removal, though we have not yet whis-
pered it to a living mortal-not a solitary Phila-

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[1833–34
Abby bopper Gibbons
delphian knows a syllable, for thee knows how it
is just whisper it and away it goes. And, until
there is a prospect, attended with some certainty,
we shall keep quiet. So please observe secrecy.
Last evening, we attended an Anti-Slavery Meeting,
where Robert Purvis, son-in-law to James Forten,
gave us such information as he gathered concern-
ing Abolition, during his travels in Europe. It
was very interesting—the room crowded to over-
flowing.
“Willie is sweet and lovely-everybody says how
he improved in New York. I do not intend he
shall forget thee, if I can help it.
It will
be very delightful to live where we can at all times
see our dear Father; it seems too pleasant to come
to pass. James is quite as much elated as I am.
We shall, indeed, be superlatively happy."

CHAPTER VI.
1835-1841.
BEGINNINGS OF ANTI-SLAVERY.
N 1835, the removal to New York was brought
about, and James and Abby took up their
abode with Friend Hopper. Here, in the
ninth month of that year, the eldest daughter was
born, and named Sarah Hopper, for Abby's mother.
JAMES TO ABBY.
“New York, 7th mo. 6, 1836.
"I arrived here at 2 P.M. on Seventh day, very
warm and very dirty. New York stands alone, I
am sure.
The streets were crowded with all sorts
of people. Broadway was like a great market-
place. There must have been several hundred
Grog-tents and Stalls erected in and about the
Park. The noise was above everything. Instead
of a day of national rejoicing, it ought to be called
one of national degradation. Sixty more Fourth
of Julys will kill Liberty as 'dead as a doornail.'
JAMES TO ABBY.
“ New York, 7 mo. 10, 1836.
"Had a fine offer yesterday, from which anyone
of common sagacity might expect to make his
85

86
(1835-
Abby Hopper Gibbons
fortune. It was the position of First Teller in a
Bank at Chicago, with a salary of a thousand dol-
lars a year ; about equal to fifteen hundred here,
considering the expense of living, and the uses
that might be made of money in that part of the
country. I like the front parlor too well to go be-
yond the back-woods. If I were a single man, the
case would be different; but I am not 'single' and
that settles the hash.' And further, I would n't
be single for ten Chicagos. Will that do? Again,
if I had accepted the offer, it would have been in
violation of that very wholesome piece of advice:
"Never undertake an important piece of work
without consulting your wife.' An immediate
answer was required, and, of course, I said 'No.'”
(Private, under same date.)
There is no connection so near that one can
feel free to admit to unlimited participation in corre-
spondence with one's wife. Between married folks
who live and love as they ought to, there is neces-
sarily a degree of confidence which ought to be
held sacred-it is for themselves alone. We wish
to say many things to each other, that no human
being besides can appreciate. And, to say the least,
it would be useless to say such things aloud. I never
feel at a loss in writing to thee, my dear A., if I
know that thee alone will read. But, as was the
case with my hasty letter the other day, as well as
the first part of this, I feel trammeled. Thee must
tear off this part of the sheet, and not let it go out
of thy hands. Not that I've any particular secrets,

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beginnings of Entisslavery
but I wish to write confidentially and with perfect
freedom. There's a pleasure in it which thee
understands, and I need not attempt to describe.
“Our dear children, how do they get along? It
is exceedingly blank without thee and them-a
blank which cannot be supplied without you. I
passed an evening at Friend Shoemaker's, and part
of one at Clark's, since I came home. Hannah S.
said I looked 'lost'; so they tell me at our other
neighbours-that I seem very lonely. Such is the
simple fact. But my durance shall be as short as
I can make it."
One of the devices for making money at the
Anti-Slavery Fairs was to have letter paper printed
with a kneeling slave in the centre and an appro-
priate motto. The following was written on one
of these sheets.
“ To Mary Willets.
East Broadway above Clinton.
LOVEJOY
THE FIRST MARTYR TO AMERICAN
LIBERTY
(Kneeling slave and figure of Liberty.)
MURDERED FOR ASSERTING THE FREEDOM
OF THE PRESS,
At Alton, Nov. 7th, 1837.

88
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66
My dear Mary,
“ To thee my able successor, I cheerfully resign
the Book, together with the honors of the respon-
sible office, and charge that thou provest not a
defaulter. Come and see us.
Thy attached
66
" A.
“I send my lot of children to make thy very
mouth water for so rich a treasure.”
TO SARAH.
“ New York, 12th mno, 18th, 1837.
“Re-tailing shirts, corking knees, toeing hose,
and other not less important calls from the 'frail
tabernacle,' have occupied my time to the exclusion
of letter-writing, as well as other duties, which shall
now be performed ; and that, too, without delay.
I intended, when thy last letter came to hand, with
those of my nieces, that they should be acknowl-
edged speedily; but, as I said before, the rents
called so loudly, that I lost no time in applying
stoppers.
“Well, a little of what is passing hereaway. Our
sister Margaret is here very agreeably. Since her
arrival, we have had several little sewing parties.
We had Dr. B. ... and T. C., with our
brothers, who exerted their entertaining powers
and shone with surpassing brilliancy. But, above
all, the still brighter and most distinguished lumi-
nary was my dearer, better part. Say what I may,
praise whom I will, be it ever understood that my
husband is the polar star.
. We pass our evenings in the front par-
(6

1841)
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Beginnings of Anti-slavery
lour, with books and work, and enjoy greatly each
other's society. The present is pronounced the
pleasantest and most uninterrupted Winter we have
passed, during our three years residence in New
York. James feels it to be his permanent home,
and I think, has nothing to cloud his prospects.
"I hope I shall not be too proud of him, and if
I am, I dare say something will occur to humble
me ; for experience has amply proved that our
family are to have a down for every up.
“Fifth day, Rachel, Margaret, Kate MacAdam,
Susan, Josiah, James and myself, went to the
American Museum to witness Dr. V's eccentrici-
ties. Poor fool! it was enough to awaken one's
sympathies to see a man that can be sensible, so
fool-ly to play the fool. And yet we all laughed
and made merry with him. For myself, I laughed
just as much at my husband, whose look of sov-
ereign contempt for the fellow, surpassed all thee
can imagine. He has not yet recovered from the
loss of time, and deepest regret at having given a
dollar to folly instead of Anti-Slavery.
Although the Friends took an early stand against
Slavery there were notable exceptions to the rule,
some of them having engaged in the Slave Trade
as late as the year 1765. In 1774, the Flushing
Monthly Meeting, recorded the fact of one of their
members selling a negro man, and “the Meeting
think he should return the money to the purchaser."
Upon refusing, he was disowned. A committee
was appointed “to labor with those who keep these

90
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Abby bopper Gibbons
66
poor people in bondage"; and later, "no Friend
was allowed to hire a negro, held in bondage."
In freeing their slaves, they took pains to provide
for their spiritual and bodily welfare, and meetings
were appointed especially for them. In 1767, it
was fully decided that “Friends could neither
hold slaves nor deal in them," and this was twenty
years before Wilberforce made his first protest
against the Slave Trade in England.
Unfortunately, all did not share the same views
and there were times when feeling waxed warm.
Those who had suffered persecution, became, in
turn, persecutors, and even as late as the year 1827,
there were many members of Meeting, who were
content not to meddle.” The sense of the Meet-
ing was so divided that, in this year, a committee
of thirty-six Friends was appointed by the yearly
Meeting, to consider the cases of Isaac T. Hopper,
Charles Marriott, and James S. Gibbons, who, by a
vote of eighteen against fifteen, were disowned
from the Society; three refusing to give judgment.
This, although Isaac T. Hopper was pronounced
a man “whose life had been one long chapter of
benevolence"; Charles Marriott,“mild as a lamb,
and tenderhearted as a child"; and James S.
Gibbons," a young man prized for his extreme
kindness of heart, his steadfast honesty of purpose,
his undisguised sincerity, and his unflinching ad-
herence to his own convictions of duty.” In the
words of a writer of the period, “a Society has
need to be very rich in moral excellence, that can
afford to throw away three such members,"

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Beginnings of Anti-Slavery
As a matter of course, there were many protests
and disclaimers. Letters came from various quar-
ters and sympathy was expressed by many. But
the fact remained that these three good men were
disowned ; and for what ? " for being concerned
in the publication and support of a paper, calcu-
lated to excite discord and disunity among Friends.”
This paper was the Anti-Slavery Standard.
One of those most active in this persecution was
George F. White, a preacher belonging to the
branch of the Society called “Hicksite," and it is
to him that constant reference is made in these
letters. He was a popular preacher and approved
by a majority of the Meeting. He made it his
mission to attack “reforms and reformers in season
and out of season."
An extract from a letter written by Lucretia
Mott, at this time, says : “But I must not fill my
paper without telling you how shamefully our
Hicksite-Orthodox Friends in New York are treat-
ing Isaac T. Hopper and his son-in-law, James S.
Gibbons. George F. White's pro-slavery friends,
-Overseers of N. Y. Monthly Mg.,-have brought
them before the Meeting as offenders, on the charge
of aiding and circulating a paper which promotes
discord among Friends. George F. White has been
preaching from the Gallery for two years past, that
which has sowed more discord than we shall soon
be able to root out and destroy.'
One of the prominent preachers of the day was
engaged in the manufacture of slave-whips.

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SARAH TO ABBY.
66
Philadelphia, ad mo., 17th, 1839.
Yesterday, as they were alone, I went
to James Mott's and took tea. Lucretia and I had
some considerable Anti-Slavery talk—quite to sat-
isfaction. At the last Meeting but one of our Anti-
Slavery Society, it was proposed by Teresa Kimber
and Elizabeth Bunting that an address should
occasionally be delivered to an invited Meeting of
women. A number were asked and declined to
speak. When it was proposed, they agreed, if it
was adopted, to do it themselves if no others were
willing. So the next Fifth day they delivered
the address. A Committee was appointed to pro-
cure a house in which to hold our approaching
Convention. They are to apply to every Prepara-
tive Meeting in the city, Orthodox and Friends, for
the use of a Meeting House. They won't get one,
but it is well to ask. Indeed, I believe, they can-
not get one of any sort, in this place, large enough
for the purpose."
SARAH TO HER FATHER.
66
" Philadelphia, 3d mo., 24th 1839.
This morning, Aunt Lucretia gave us one of
her best sermons.
The burden of her song was in
relation to the popular creeds and confessions of
faith, beautifully finished with a spice of abolition.
We had a number of Western and Southern strang-
ers, as we generally do, from the Hotels ; and I was

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Beginnings of Anti-slavery
particularly pleased, on account of her connexion
from your city (Geo. F. White). He seems to be
looking round to see what sort of sanction is going
to be given to his heresy. I have seen none but
what were much pleased. Jonathan says it was the
greatest sermon he ever heard her preach. His
self-esteem makes a monstrous deformity of him.
Do allow me, (speaking phrenologically,) to give
way to my destructiveness—I mean, combativeness,
-on such subjects—upon men who presume to
censure my father's actions, whose shoes they are
not worthy to unbuckle. There ! that's all the
harm I wish him; and the good I wish him is, that
he will change his course, drop his crest, and be
more humble.
"Last Fourth day I was re-appointed, for the
eighth year, at the table. Much against the grain,
as I am tired of the service, and requested earnestly
to be released ; but Friends solicited so entreat-
ingly, that they brought me over and appointed
Mary L. Rowland, Assistant."
LYDIA MARIA CHILD TO MRS. GIBBONS.
Among my very pleasantest recollec-
tions of New York are reminiscences of pleasant
talks with your honest, truth-loving father, your
husband and yourself.
"In those days, I little dreamed of the painful
and mortifying divisions that have since distracted
our ranks. Yet a glance backwards at all other re-
forms, might have prepared me for it. The Apostles

94
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Abby hopper Gibbons
soon had those among them who came to 'spy out
their liberty'; and why should I marvel at John
G. Whittier, when I recollect that Barnabas him-
self was 'led away by their dissimulations?'
“Yet I am surprised that Whittier does not
perceive the glaring fact that the Massachusetts
Society is composed of men who walk abroad at
noonday--who, at least, have nothing to conceal,
and no necessity for assuming ; while the New Or-
ganization are resorting to all manner of manage-
ment and trickery, taking ground on false issues,
shifting ground, when that on which they stand is
too obviously hollow, &c. Oh it is the pitifullest,
of all shams, that was ever made a cat's paw by
rank intolerance and selfish ambition ! Prejudice
and bigotry could never impair my confidence in
any individual. I should look upon them as the
mere outer garments put on by education, and the
influence of circumstance; and, if men persisted
in wearing them after they were threadbare, soiled,
and outgrown, the worst it would do would be to
impair and diminish my respect for their intellect;
but this pretending one thing and meaning another,
I have no patience with.
What a precious development is Elizur Wright's
letter to Stanton ! (My old minister always pro-
nounced that word 'devil-upment.') A presiden-
tial candidate must be nominated, forsooth, because
the 'New Organization' has been 'miserably mis-
managed': what need have honest men of any
management' at all? If the Mass. Society were
really believed guilty of the charges brought
66

1841]
95
Jbeginnings of Enti-Slavery
against her, if she were really putting back the
cause,' would not a plain tale put her down?
“I trust all friends of true Freedom will rally at
the anniversary next Spring. The sooner this
shameful contest is put an end to, by a decided
vote of a majority of Abolitionists on the right
side, the better.
"I sometimes feel greatly afraid that the formation
of a third political party will be the rock on which
we shall split. I speak with no reference to non-re-
sistance, not touching the question whether Aboli-
tionists ought to vote or not; but with regard to a
distinct abolition party, my husband, E. G. Loring,
Francis Jackson, and many other defensive war
men, feel precisely as I do. I know that princi-
ples are eternal ; and therefore, that our cause,
properly speaking, can never be overthrown ; but
God may see it necessary to take it from us, and
reserve it for cleaner hands and purer hearts.
Our Fair for the Mass. Society was, as you no
doubt know, very successful. I send
I send you herewith
the book written expressly for the occasion. Please
accept it as a slight token of my kind and grateful
renembrance.
“With best wishes to your father and husband,
Yrs. truly,
“L. M. Child.”
66
EDWARD HOPPER TO ABBY.
Philadelphia, 5th mo. 19, 1840.
The Yearly Meeting was, upon the
whole, very interesting, and father's presence con-

96
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Abby bopper Gibbons
tributed materially towards making it so. He
spoke most admirably on the subject of dealing
with offenders, Slavery, and the Indians. His re-
marks were close to the point, well delivered and
well received. Many have expressed great satis-
faction with the decided and manly character of
his views. Somehow, I have never taken such a
happy retrospect of any visit of his to this city as
this last. Surely, if the Lord does not bless the
last days of such a man, it will be a marvel.
“The separation in the Anti-Slavery ranks was
not surprising to us. I hope good may come out
of it. I often think separation in large bodies
proves beneficial to all. I hope now the respective
parties may agree to disagree, and henceforth, not
be picking each other to pieces. I fear abolition
of Slavery is little thought of when party blood is
excited, and I think it quite time that each should
work in its own harness.
If you come to visit us this summer,
I should think that thee, James, Sally, Julia and
Lucy, would come in the steamboat, and that Willie
would give you his clothes, Jump into the Bay, and
swim round by sea. You know that he swam from
Wilmington once, while the rest came by cars! He
is older now and ready for a longer tug. Does
thee take ? *
* This refers to a speech Willie once made to his Grand-
father Gibbons, when his mother had brought the children to
pay a visit at the old house in Wilmington. Dr. Gibbons
asked Willie how they had come from Philadelphia. The lit-
tle fellow replied, “ The others came by boat, but I swam."
“Ah, Abby," observed the old gentleman, “thee must take
care of this boy. He is a little romancer.”
66

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EXTRACT FROM LETTER OF SARAH PALMER.
“ Aunt Lucretia has had a letter from Abby
Kelly, questioning the propriety of holding women's
conventions, unless it be with open doors ; she
seems to think it yielding the right of men and
women to meet together. Thee knows it is a mat-
ter of principle with many women-speaking in
mixed assembly—as Paul has taught it is unbecom-
ing in women to do. Lucretia says she is at a loss
how to answer her.
I wish Stephen Tread-
well would preach a sermon in New York, such as
he gave us.
If it would not meet the witness' in
some of your lukewarm hearts, they must have be-
come seared.
“S. H. P."
.
An Anti-Slavery Medal, with appropriate designs,
is proposed.
Mr. Gibbons writes under the date of 11 mo., 28,
1840, “A man could not purchase a neater toy for
his children, nor a cheaper gum-cutter for teething
infants. Let all our children cut their gums with
an Anti-Slavery Medal. Older folks may use theirs
for their wisdom teeth. It seems to me there is no
possibility of a failure of this scheme. Will not
several hundred sell at the Fair ? If I had time,
I could say volumes."
SARAH TO ABBY.
66
Philada., ist mo., 24, 1841.
“I think I 'll begin with the Fair. It was not
two months before the sale that it was decided to
7

98
(1835-
Abby bopper Gibbons
66
have one, and the whole care devolved upon Anna
Hopper. Our funds were exhausted and it seemed
the last resort to renew them. She persevered
most commendably, and succeeded in having a
very decent assortment of articles which produced
upwards of three hundred dollars profit, which
has since served as capital in assisting the 'Free-
man' to get out of debt. I laughed at them in
the 'Female Society's' annual meeting. Said I:
"It must be for the pride of saying you owe nothing,
for you will no sooner be out than you will be in
again.' Now they have suspended the Freeman for
a month, that they may say this and come out new.
But I'm a Dutchman, if they can make any-
thing different from the old thing, with such stuff
as they have to work upon. Our sort of abolition-
ists—these non-committal, Pharisaical, soft-solder,
cry-peace, no-peace, jealous sort of folks, can't
raise wind enough to turn an Anti-Slavery Mill
long at a time. They remind me of my own efforts
to spin on a little wheel. It would only turn right
for a few revolutions, and then whizz !-the wrong
way back again !
But they are such a self-sufficient set, they
imagine they will go right now. Brother James
set his light on a candle-stick while he was here,
and made them believe what they would hate
to acknowledge. was boasting at Daniel
Neall's lately, that he had not one drop of abo-
lition blood in him.' Nay, verily-one drop of
such blood would transform him into a man, com-
pared with his present nonentity.
66

1841]
99
beginnings of Elnti-slavery
“You did wonders at the Boston Fair. I read
all the latter part of thy letter to our Association,
after a preface setting forth the fruits of thy labor,
under such discouraging circumstances. It was
received with suitable applause.”
TO ANNE AND DEBORAH WESTON.
“ New-York, 3rd mo., 24th, 1841.
“We are now in a dilemma, having issued a call
for a Fair, and having so few come to aid us save
our Boston friends, who, I believe, intend it.
Philadelphians say they have enough to do to help
themselves. Here, I am the only white female
member of the Manhattan Anti-Slavery Society,
and the colour inefficient. All our children have
had the measles, two of them severely, and the
baby has been so indisposed since as to occupy
my close attention. Thus we are progressing, or
rather not progressing at all.
“Well, I will speak right out and say, my object
in writing is to beg you to pass several weeks with
us previous to the Anniversary, in the capacity of
superintendents, for we are as ignorant as it is
possible for human nature to be, as regards the
arrangements on such occasions. My husband
and self will do al in our power to make you at
home during your stay. So do, my dear girls, favour
us with your company and services as early as
suits your convenience, and we will ever be your
True and grateful friends
“ J. S. and A. H. Gibbons."
66

CHAPTER VII.
1841-1842.
TROUBLE IN FRIENDS' MEETING.
SARAH TO JAMES.
“Philada., 4 m0., 14, 1841.
66
0
N Seventh day, Richard Price received
a letter from Geo. F. White, to this
effect : 'Don't be surprised if I should
be in Philadelphia, and not stay at thy house.'
Sure enough, he came to Cherry Street Meeting,
and called upon the constituted authorities of
this meeting to look to it ; that the sword was to
be passed between bosom friends'; and exhorted
them to be strong--this visitation is at hand-
yea, at your very door.' He spoke of 'ambitious
and ambitious women'-of 'puny rush-
lights,' etc., and so much nonsense that I have
not the patience to repeat it-intermixed with a
deal of doctrine that would be revolting to a Cal-
vinistic congregation. Washington Brown had
been a little carried away with his eloquence, but
the reading of Oliver's pamphlet changed his
views; and, after Meeting, on First day, he said
to Miller in the Meeting-House yard : 'That man
men
100

1841-42]
IOI
Troubles in Friends' Meeting
is ready to take the sword and the musket,' and
when he heard of your cases going to the Meet-
ing he said : 'There lies the danger of religious
organizations--they are subject to such abuses.'
“George Justice went to James Mott's, in search
of R. Hicks, to tell him (so he said that he thinks
they had better sheathe the sword in New York
-and that George White's sermon at their Meet-
ing was entirely inapplicable..
“I like the independent ground thee takes in
thy letter. It is right, in this case, to observe
plainness of speech and behaviour. Miller has
just shown me his letter to Oliver, and tells me
it is said here there will be no division in New-
York—that he thinks there will be a division in the
Society here—that 'Father's case will not be car-
ried forward, because Father is coming to Phila-
delphia to live.' I can only answer thus : ' That
I have never heard of it if it is true.'
Do tell me all you know and are doing, for
every hour seems a day when I hear nothing
from you. People tell me that I am my Father's
daughter as regards plain speaking—and, truly, no
one sews up my mouth in these days."
66
SARAH TO ABBY.
"Hannah Foulke kindly stopped in to ask for
letters, which I send, with a very nice rennet. I
wish I had another or two to accompany it, but
I'll remember them another time. Now I am
going to tell thee something which thee must care-
fully conceal from Father, because he will grieve

IO2
[1841-
Atbby bopper Gibbons
that I am so weak. I have borne up wonderfully
under the trials you are encountering until H. W.
told me that she never before saw Friend Hopper
look like an old man--that he looks thin and de-
pressed'; and that has nearly broken my heart.
It really seems sometimes as if I can scarcely sur-
vive it. Well, Richard Price was frightened at my
fierce talking, and went off to Wm. Dorsey (no
doubt), and sent him to soothe me. Last evening I
was alone when he came and spent about two hours.
It was a sweet visit. He said he could not pre-
sume to speak to a friend of Father's age and ex-
perience upon the subject; but, if he knew what
to say, he would write to James, or would like to
do it. He seemed surprised at some things I told
him, and did his best to persuade me that 'the
clouds would disappear and I would wonder where
they had gone.' He seemed to regret from his
heart that you should be disowned-he says
if
you
cannot enjoy your friends in New-York, you will
want to mingle with them in other places. I tell
such that if concession is made on the right side,
you will be ready for it. Wm. Wharton is terribly
grieved, and Deborah says she shall be afflicted
indeed if they are disowned. I tell her that I
believe a curse will rest upon them and their chil-
dren who do it ; and that I would sooner have
them acknowledge to the Orthodox than to those
evil-doers in New York."
SARAH TO ABBY.
67
Satan is 'stalking over this little farm of his'
in all his majesty. It appears that he is now most

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Troubles in Friends' Meeting
busily employed reaping the fruits of his labor
among you. Hereaway, he is just about sowing his
seed---not just begun. P. T. is strewing her tears
most profusely and did not sleep a wink on Fourth
Day night. It is a busy time here.
Some see
clearly another separation, others are distracted
because they can't see the end on't.
If I am
visited in judgment, it will be just, for I have sat
with my lips sealed when I have beheld injustice
and intrigue practised among us. I mean in Meet-
ing. And I have absented myself at times that I
might not behold it. I have seen persons injured in
a pecuniary point of view, by the influence of de-
traction. I never otherwise united in it, than by
holding my tongue. Chas. Townsend just left
here. He says that Dr. Michener was at their
house some time ago and said that one of two
things was certain-either Lunacy would develop
itself in Geo. White, or he would leave the Soci-
ety. Charles said that he asked some Friends,
some time ago, to unite with him in writing a letter
to Friends, informing them that we were uneasy
with doctrines which he preached amongst us.
They agreed with him entirely, yet had not energy
to unite with him in it. I find the excitement in-
increases, and it grieves Friends here. Even
George's friends are alarmed. Do tell me if C.
Marriott's case is to be taken forward, and tell me
how my brother James feels, and what is the course
they mean to pursue ; and how Richard and
Deborah stand. Poor devils ! (I feel wicked at
this moment.)
Father would make an
elegant Paul. Alas! Alas !”

104
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Abby bopper Gibbons
SARAH TO ABBY.
Philadelphia, 4 mo., 19th, 1841.
“I received both thy and brother James' wel-
come letters, setting forth the high-handed and
wicked course of your constituted authorities.'
Last evening, Richard Price came in to ask a ques-
tion relating to some business in Mo. Meeting.
After talking some time upon several subjects he
said : "Sarah, does thee remember what thee said
to me, as we were going into Meeting lately, when
Susan Luther was speaking in the yard ?' 'Yes,
and more and more I believe it to be true. Our
very Discipline is made the instrument of outrage
and wrong.' Said he, “We are banded together
at Cherry St. in a good deal of harmony and love.'
I told him I thought we were, and more the pity
that George White should come here to endeavor
to disturb it—that I never witnessed such assur-
ance as his endeavor to marshall forces in our
gallery ; and, as to his doctrines, they were at
variance with all Quakerism. Richard would shud-
der at thought of a separation. He condemned
Oliver's going to hear George and then publishing
what he said. Said I, ‘Richard, you seem to for-
get the ground you took at the time of the Separa-
tion. We then availed ourselves of the privileges
of the Press, because we could obtain neither hear-
ing nor redress in any other way, and as to a person
not a member, undertaking to do it, Marcus Gould
was liberally paid for taking down sermons, that
the people might read and judge of denunciations
poured forth from our gallery, and they were not

1842]
105
Troubles in Friends' eeting
half so bitter as Geo. F. White's.' I told him that
Elias Hicks when here, said: 'We are going to
disown all the abolitionists there—you will see if
we don't,' and that R. Cromwell said, in his Com-
mittee-visit to Father, that he would disown all
who undertook to support the Standard, if it left
but five of them.' I told him that Mother was
present at that interview, and, said I, Richard, I'd
no sooner trust those men without a witness, than
I would the greatest villain in the Penitentiary ;
they misrepresent.' 'Oh,' said he, “thee must be
more charitable-must have more Christian Char-
ity. Said I, 'My heart overflows with it ; but the
time has always been and more especially calls for
it now, when I call things by their proper names,
and I now say the constituted authorities of New-
York Mo. Meeting, are hypocrites, and I shall not
give smooth names to such. That Geo. White is
either very crazy, or very wicked, is my settled
conviction. I believed it my religious duty to raise
high my standard and declare to all the world, as
far as I can, to the wickedness of such proceed-
ings;' and taking up my pocket-book said, 'there
are letters which I am preserving as a testimony
against persecuting Quakers—they should have an
opportunity of seeing what abolition blood was
made of.' He said both the Friends in New York,
and Father were to blame, and if he would make
satisfaction to his friends— Satisfaction !' said I,
if he ever compromises a single principle, he will
be a disgraced man.' So we talked for two hours.
I think he will come soon again to soothe me.
"On Fifth Day, the Association Committee ap-

106
[1841-
Abby bopper Gibbons
plied for the house in Green St. Not one dissent-
ing voice, but Joshua Lippincott said he did not
like these hirelings employed.' Isaac Jackson
said he hoped that denunciations from our galleries
might be discouraged-they were very unpleasant
to him etc. etc. Joseph Warner said he had a great
objection to these denunciations in our religious
meetings—they could not be corrected or replied
to. In our Meeting for Discipline, he had no ob-
jection to freedom of expression. Geo. Justice
spoke of the testimonies against oaths and thought
some of the strong expressions which we hear from
our galleries border upon that. To this I sub-
scribe. Richard Price said that Father spoke most
eloquently and beautifully in yearly Meeting two
years ago, about Friends uniting with other Soci-
eties, or with Societies in the mixture; and that
now he does the same thing ; that an orthodox
Friend said that Father told him, that, if he was
disowned in New-York Mo. Meeting, Cherry St.
Friends would receive him with open arms. Said
I, Richard, there are a great many who would be
glad to receive him.' I am told that Richard is
very sorry to find me so excited. A Friend said to
him, 'How would thee wish to find her?' Said
he, 'In a prayerful state.' Said the friend, 'Would
thee wish her to pray to the Pope to forgive her
Father for doing what he believed his duty ?' I
am glad thee gave them thy mind in Mo. Meeting.
. Uncle Mott and Aunt Lucretia were here
yesterday and subscribed to all I said to Richard.
I never knew Aunt Lucretia to look so contemptu-

1842]
107
Troubles in friends' Meeting
ously as when I told her what he said about
satisfaction.'"
ور
SARAH TO ABBY AND JAMES.
"I am delighted that Henry Gibbons is coming
out in the Temperance Standard '—it will arouse
some sleepers. Yesterday, I had a visit from Mary
Hallett. Thee may depend, I owe neither her
nor New-York Mo. Meeting, anything. I did
every one the justice our language afforded me
the opportunity to do. I did not feel smart and
rather avoided the exertion, but she edged round
so provokingly that I dabbed right at her.
She said she had sat with great solemnity under G.
White's ministry. Said I, so have I, awful solem-
nity, until I was literally gooseflesh to hear the
absurdity he handed forth, professedly from the
fountain, and then called upon “high heaven”
in such language and in such a manner as I teach
my children is profane swearing. . She
said the family had many friends in the Mo. Meet-
ing. “My father had many friends? How have
they proved themselves such? I would n't give a
thanky for a thousand such cowards-afraid to
raise their voices against what they knew to be
wicked persecution. I would as soon be a slave in
Georgia as a slave anywhere else. Neither Min-
ister, Elder, Overseer, Sect, nor Association should
prevent me from thinking, acting or speaking as a
free woman. My freedom is dearer to me than a
right in any Society. Their proceedings have

108
(1841-
Elbby bopper Gibbons
kindled a fire in our Society, which will in time burn
up both Quaker Slavery and Negro Slavery.' She
bore it very well and I told her that I considered
her used up, and that if she came to see me again
I would play the agreeable. Aunt Lucretia came
in while she was here and said, 'has thee been in
New-York lately?' 'Not since I attended Mo.
Meeting.' Aunt Lucretia said : did thee go to try
to make those naughty people better who are dis-
owning our friends?' She invited Mary to see
them. Her heart is so enlarged and so charitably
disposed that it seems to me, all who have inter-
course with her, must be in some degree influenced
by it.
“I have just commenced 'Miss Sedgwick's Letters
from abroad.' If Father objects to the 'Miss' here,
tell him it is the literal title of the book. I asked
Mary why they did not treat with sister Abby?
Said she, We shall wait to see what becomes of
the appeals of those now under dealing.' Said I,
A reason worthy of you. Shame awaits you.'
She said, 'Well, we'll see.”
SARAH TO ABBY.
66
Philadelphia, 10 mo., 1841.
This day two weeks ago Aunt Lucretia
preached, I think the greatest sermon she has ever
yet delivered. But too few are able to appreciate
it. Last week, our Free produce' Annual Meeting
was held—rather a small gathering. I crept out to
the first Meeting on Third Day morning, and be-

1842]
109
Troubles in Friends' Meeting
came so interested in the discussions, that it was
quite a trial not to be able to go again. I met
cousin Mary Whitall a few days ago.
She wants
the 'Standard' to read and is going to send down
for it. Said she : 'Do tell me what Uncle Isaac's
signature is.' 'Isaac T. Hopper, in the face of
Day,' said I.
She replied, 'Bold as a lion-
afraid of nobody.' No,' said I, afraid of
nothing but snakes.' I told her if she wanted to
avail herself of the opportunity of becoming ac-
quainted with one of its greatest ornaments, she
should read the ‘Standard.'
“A committee of our association had a meeting
down at 'Little Wesley' the other evening, respect-
ing the condition of the Public School in Lombard
Street. The Board of Comptrollers is trying to get
it out of their hands. It did my heart good to
hear Robert Purvis and some of the others assert
their rights. I've married Freedom, and declare
to love it all the days of my life-forever and a
day. I've taken it for better, for worse, and I
have no doubt that opportunities will occur to prove
whether I 'm true. I trust I shall be able to keep
my covenant. I have often feared that Father
would be troubled about his flock; lest they should
be scattered. Satan does not always make himself
appear an angel of Light, and I have thought that
one of his transformations to Father might be to
have his course produce this effect on his children.
It has not been the case. They know a more sure
foundation than heretofore.
* Lydia Maria Child was co-editor with Isaac T. Hopper.
>

IIO
[1841-
Abby bopper Gibbons
SARAH TO HER FATHER.
“ Philadelphia, 10 mo. 6, 1841.
“We have here an energetic, intelligent friend,
Jesse Garretson, from New Lisbon, Ohio-a
merchant and in-bred abolitionist. It was at his
Father's house that G. F. White was, while C. Bur-
leigh was there. Charles was busy writing up stairs
and did not see him. Friend Garretson said to
George : 'There is a great difference of opinion
here as to the course thee is pursuing (or words
to that effect). Said George : 'I came not to do
mine own business, but the will of Him that sent
me.' When friend G. told this to Charles, the
latter said, ' Did thee ask him who did send him,
because that makes all the difference in the world.'
Jesse Garretson is so interested in your cases (es-
pecially thine, on account of thy age), that it seems
to bind him to us a good deal. He says, in his
neighborhood, nearly all are on your side. Be that
as it may, you have Truth and Right on it and all
the world besides are not so strong.
SARAH TO HER FATHER.
Philadelphia, 11/28, 1841.
“I feel so vexed when I attempt to write upon
the subject of New York Monthly Meeting, that I
can't do myself justice; and when I meet with
those who are so anxious to share the glory, but
who were determined not to share the shame, I
find my Philosophy put to flight. Last First Day
morning, at the close of our Meeting, Aunt Lucre-

1842]
111
Troubles in Friends meeting
tia rose and said after this manner : That, though
it might be bringing self into notice more than
seemed best, yet, in prospect of an absence from
the city of some weeks, she felt it right for her to
invite a general attendance at the evening Meet-
ing ; more especially of our young Friends, and
others who might be willing to sit with us. AC-
cordingly, the house was filled as thoroughly as I
ever saw it. She preached well, as she always
does, though I do not think this among her six
greatest. There was profound attention. She
touched upon the moral reforms of the day and
gave every sinner his just due.. The
information of G. White's offering his resignation,
has alarmed some of his adherents. They are
fairly frightened. I never knew greater consterna-
tion in a camp. “Confusion seize them !' say I.
They will find they have been leaning on a broken
reed.
“ On First Day morning, Geo. F. White gave us
his droll notion about the parting of the woof, mean-
ing 'standing upon two dispensations &c.,' but was
evidently hampered in some way, for he was not as
fluent as usual and gave his sermon out in three
attempts. It is said he proposes, if your cases
should be judged down by the Quarter, or rather,
the decision of New York Monthly Meeting be re-
versed, that Monthly Meeting shall stand alone and
form a rallying point. I suppose the New York
Mo. Meeting will be readily duped into a belief
that his offering his resignation was a religious
requisition. There are here,--as is generally the

II2
(1841-
Abby bopper Gibbons
case in all agitations,-a good many who are wait-
ing to see how the tide turns, and just so, they will
steer their course. And there are others who are
independent. In the present state of society (do,
my dear Father, allow me a strong term here),
'Select Meetings' are an absolute curse. I believe
them to be the root of a great evil amongst us.
“I have felt in rather a wrathy mood lately, and,
in reviewing the course of this affair from the be-
ginning, I told Wm. Wharton that I did condemn,
without qualification, the conduct of Friends—our
Friends-at our last Yearly Meeting-that many
were false to you and false to themselves in allow-
ing New-York Friends to go home with wrong im-
pressions concerning their views of the course of
New-York Monthly Meeting. He told me he had
not failed to caution them. Joseph Parrish was at
Baltimore Yearly Meeting when the honest Truth
was spoken. Friends there have no unity with
Geo. F. White or the proceedings of the New-
Yorkers.
SARAH TO ABBY.
66
' Philadelphia, 12 mo., 12th, 1841.
“The people more generally seem to be rousing
from their lethargy. I asked our friend Mary Hal-
lett to tell thee how she felt when she was compelled
to believe (what she would fain have helped if she
could), viz: that George White had resigned his
right in the Society. Tell her I wish to know
whether he has duped her and others into the be-

1842]
113
Troubles in Friends meeting
lief that it was a religious act. Tell her I think he
will bring up at the end of the chase before long,
but they will be terribly out of breath, poor things.
I think I see them panting now, their hearts beating
and their knees trembling. That Monthly Meeting
now holds its proper place in the estimation of most
Friends—a poor palsied limb-I am afraid, past
recovery.
You can't know how much we
enjoy the 'Standard.' No man could have ele-
vated it as Maria has. Bless her heart ! the
angels love her. They have been keeping Father
all his life. Oh, I've volumes to talk when I see
you.
TO ANNE WARREN WESTON.
66
1841.
"My best of fathers will leave us in less than an
hour for Boston, and that he may not be sent empty
away, I will just express my regret that it has been
quite out of my power to aid you this year, my con-
dition being very much like the old woman's who
lived in a shoe ;' I have so many children I
don't know what to do ': the youngest but three
months. Add to this, my inability to obtain assist-
ance in our circle of Friends—all pro-slavery. Of
those who formed our sewing circle last year, but
one would be willing to aid Anti-Slavery this year.”
8

CHAPTER VIII.
1842.
DISOWNMENT.
LUCRETIA MOTT TO A FRIEND.
66
Yºm
.
“Phila. and mo., 25th, 1842.
TOU will see by the 'Anti-Slavery Standard,'
how the N. Y. pseudo-Quakers are con-
ducting towards Isaac T. Hopper, James
S. Gibbons and Charles Marriott. I bear my tes-
timony against their intolerance in every circle.
In a Meeting of the Indian Committee,
I told them, we did not hesitate, fifteen
years ago, to judge of the persecuting spirit of our
Orthodox opposers, and I viewed the treatment of
these Friends in New-York in the same light. We
were then struggling for freedom of opinion ; we
are now claiming the right of practice in accordance
with our convictions."
Again, under the date of " 3d mo., 23rd, 1842,"
Lucretia Mott writes :
“The disownment of such men as Isaac T.
Hopper, &c. ... has caused great disaffection,
and quite a number have meted the same measure
by disowning the Society, in their turn."
114

1842]
115
Disownment
JAMES TO SARAH.
“New - York, 5th mo.,
1842.
"... I am concerned that we should act philo-
sophically. Let us keep the weather gauge of the
enemy, by showing him that he cannot deprive us of
the mastery of ourselves. I think it is right that the
family here should resign their places in the Mo.
Mtg. We can't go to hear such awful words as are
spoken in our Mtgs., and we can't send our chil-
dren. None of the children are more worthy than
their father, and if the Society is too holy for him,
surely it is so for them. He is expelled, and for
them to remain in association with the expellants,
would be to be in apparent league against him. I
conceive it to be a duty to excommunicate the Mo.
Mtg. . Keep cool, be discreet, and give my
love to all the deserving.
“Thy emancipated brother,
"J. S. G.”
RESIGNATION OF ABIGAIL H. GIBBONS.
“ New-York, 6mo. Ist, 1842.
“To the Monthly Meeting of New-York :
“I request that my name, and the names of my
children, William, Sarah Hopper, Julia and Lucy,
may be erased from your list of members, and, from
this date, I consider the connection which has
hitherto existed between us, to be entirely dissolved.
The principal reasons which induce me to take
this step, are :

116
[1842
Abby bopper Gibbons
66
"1. The Monthly Meeting publicly denies the
leading principles and testimonies of the Society of
Friends ; particularly, it rejects the testimony of
truth against the great evils of Slavery and Intem-
perance.
“2. It imposes restrictions on the freedom of con-
science, which are inconsistent with the require-
ments of Christian duty, and disowns those of its
members who refuse to conform to such restrictions.
3. It has disowned my husband and father, be-
cause they are conscientiously engaged in promo-
ting the testimony of the Society against Slavery,
and has been guilty of the plainest violations of its
own Discipline, to procure the confirmation of their
decision by the Quarterly and Yearly Meetings.
Its Overseers, Elders, and principal Ministers, to
secure the same end, engaged, for many months, in
the defamation of moral character, in a most insid-
ious and disgraceful manner.
4. Its Ministers and Elders have introduced a
proposition, to recommend, as a minister of the
Society, a man who stands in the relation of land-
lord to a number of grogshops, thus affording prac-
tical proof that it rejects the testimony of truth
against the Sin of Intemperance.
Abigail H. Gibbons.
66
A. H. G. TO S. H. P.
“New - York, 6 mo. ist, 1842.
“I went to Meeting, took my seat about the
fourth seat from the gallery, facing the clerks;

1842]
117
Disownment
waited until the opening Minute, and the Minutes
of the previous month were read, then arose, and,
in a tone that might be heard at the farthest cor-
ner, read what I have here copied ; adding that I
wished Friends to understand that I had come to
no sudden or hasty conclusion. That I was as
decided one year ago, as at this moment, what
course I should pursue. That I should have re-
linquished my right in the Society six months be-
fore, but for condescension to my Father. He had
hoped this poor, palsied limb in New-York, might
have been made sound; he had laboured diligently
but not effectively; and that I was now ready to
withdraw wholly. I mentioned (not being disin-
clined to repeat the name) that our youngest son,
Isaac Hopper, * was not in the list, for the reason
that he was born after his father was disowned.
“I then handed the paper to Mary W. Hicks,
who is clerk, and, (honour where honour is due !)
she put out her hand and took it very politely, and,
I am told, conducted in a very ladylike and Chris-
tian manner throughout. I then left the Meeting.
I omitted to say that, as I was about to begin read-
ing, Sally Hicks of Westbury (Robert's Mother),
bawled at the top of her voice : 'This Meeting
ought not to be imposed upon so. After I left,
she said, she never did witness such a piece of
disorder in a religious Meeting ;' that 'somebody
ought to be placed at the gates, to keep out in-
truders.'
"The very idea of finding religion at Rose St.
* Isaac went by the name of “the little emancipated.”

118
(1842
Abby bopper Gibbons
66
Meeting! Lucy Gilpin hoped that 'Whatever was
done, might be done in love.' Several united, but,
as a thing of course, (for they dare not move ex-
cept at their masters' bidding,) the case was left to
be acted upon next month. Understand their
"Masters' to be Men Friends.
" It may be asked, why did I not hand the paper
to the clerk and let her read it? I answer, be-
cause I was certain it would not be permitted.
They would have taken me up and dealt with me
as an offender, as some of them propose now to do.
I will not be troubled with them. Am willing to
receive a committee to accept my resignation.
None other.
• Thou wilt like to know how I behaved myself.
To give thee an idea, must give testimony. Mary
Hallett says: 'better than she thought I knew
how.' Mary and Anne tell me, I was not the least
agitated, but quite calm.' Amy Carroll means to
call on thee and she will say likewise. Those who
persecute us and say all manner of evil against us,
will tell thee I was dreadfully excited.
“I have particularized, as I suppose thee wishes
it, but it would be very dry and tedious to have to
do it again. I am now done with the whole affair.
Don't mean to have the trash any more public than
this matter makes it. Please don't permit the
resignation to be copied. We have had a great
many calls since, the larger number, Orthodox
Friends, whose sympathies are altogether with us.
They think our division coming to pieces, and, I
verily believe, rejoice in it.

1842]
119
Disownment
“ All this comes of a few honest men and women
not being faithful-afraid to speak out,-so they
may take the consequences.
MR. GIBBONS TO ANNE WARREN WESTON.
“New-York, June 22, 1842.
'You would have received a letter from me some
days ago but for the absence of my father-in-law
at one of the Annual Convocations of the sect
from which he has just been expelled. Quakers,
or Friends, they are not, in a fair historical sense.
The old gentleman has always fallen in the way of
being commended for rare impudence, and his
attendance of disciplinary Meetings under present
circumstances will not occasion him the forfeiture
of that character. The opinions of the Society on
Slavery, are different in country places from city
opinions. Sodom wars with truth in all forms.
Although the Meeting here excommunicated him,
the portion of the Society constituting Genessee
branch adınitted him and Charles Marriott to sit
in their councils, which is a signal rebuke to the
pro-slavery tribunal.
“The 'Standard' has informed you of the fact
that, since Father Hopper's expulsion, several of
his children, of whom my wife is one, have re-
signed their membership in the Society. She went
quietly to the Meeting and read her resignation
before giving it to the Clerk, as the result of the
latter course would have been its suppression, so
far as the reading was concerned. An unusual and

I 20
[1842
Ebby fhopper Gibbons
startling thing was it for one of our quiet and orderly
Meetings to be disturbed by the grave affirmation
of truths which branded its holy officials with
the guilt of slavery, intemperance, and religious
tyranny. Sect, the hoary old soul-slaveholder of
the South, resorts to Lynch Law in revenge-re-
fusing to receive the resignations, but gathering up
the thunderbolts of Church vengeance to excom-
municate the self-excommunicated. Religious
bulls, however, are no longer terrible. Sect is no
longer Jupiter.
.
66
The following has value as a testimony, showing
the patient spirit with which Friend Hopper bore
the attacks of his persecutors at this trying period.
It is an extract from a Narrative of the proceed-
ings of the Monthly Meeting of New York and
their subsequent confirmation by the Quarterly
and Yearly Meetings, in the case of Isaac T.
Hopper."
" New York, 5th mo., 1843.
“I cannot close, without embracing the present
opportunity to declare my unqualified attachment
to the Society of Friends. My admiration for its
great leading principles, my faith in its simple, but
elevating doctrines, my love for its inward and
external testimonies, my confidence in the efficacy
and usefulness of its discipline, when administered
with pure hearts and clean hands, remain wholly
unabated and unshaken. I have ever looked upon
them as calculated to accomplish much for human-

1842]
I21
Disownment
ity.
I have spent much time in the ser-
vice of the Society, as the records of all its
disciplinary meetings amply attest. In its brighter
days, I have rejoiced in its prosperity ; in its more
depressed condition, when clouds have lowered,
and storms have threatened, I have never for a
moment turned my back, but have gladly hazarded
everything personal to myself, in its defence. And
now, although excluded from its Meetings for Dis-
cipline at home, yet I have never felt at liberty to
alter my habits of diligently attending those for
worship. My inclination, my sense of duty, my
views of proper example, all forbid my making
any change in this respect. Whatever good I have
attained in the Society, or in following my convic-
tions of duty, has not been the work of my adver-
saries, nor can I conscientiously permit them to
take it away. My sincere desire is to know what
it is right for me to do, and then to raise my eyes
to the Hills, from whence cometh all our help, for
grace and strength to enable me to perform it,
regardless of fear, favor, or affection on the one
hand or persecution and bitter reviling on the other.
"I most earnestly desire that my friends and
brethren who have been called to labor for the
redemption of those who are held in captivity, may
not be alarmed or intimidated at what has befallen
others who have felt it their duty to engage in the
works of humanity. Steadily pursue the path
that may be opened before you, and permit nothing
to turn you aside from it. The Society of Friends
have it in their power to do much, without in the

I22
Elbby hopper Gibbons
[1842
least departing from their principles or testimo-
nies. In what better, holier, or nobler work can
they engage? Some efforts have been made in
times past which have been blessed, and I cannot
persuade myself that this people will turn a deaf
ear to the cry of oppression. And however much
we may feel discouraged at the course taken by
those of whom better things should have been ex-
pected, let us hope for the dawning of a brighter
day. Let every one do his part in the great reform
for which we hope, and not turn away from the
field of labor. “Let us not be weary in well do-
ing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint
not.'
“In the language of a modern writer, I would
say, "With every endeavor to introduce a more
active spirit of virtue amongst us, I deeply sympa-
thize. I hold that all the physical and intellectual
powers we possess should be dedicated to the fur-
therance of good, and the very possession of them
is an obligation upon us to exercise them that
our understandings are amongst the noblest gifts
of our Divine Father, and that we are bound to
employ them at all hours and at all times, in his
service. It is a false and has been a most perni-
cious notion, that because the carnal mind is en-
mity against God'-i.e. the carnal state of the mind
--therefore our minds, in their natural capacities,
are unfit to serve him. The maxim of 'not run-
ning in our own will to do good,'has done infinite
harm. If we run with a desire to do good, we
shall run well; for the very desire of good, springs

1842]
123
Pisownment
from the source of good. My opinion, therefore,
is, that, ' to be instant in season and out of season,'
is the law and the obligation of the Christian ;
and our daily experience shows that obedience to
that law is largely blessed. I say, therefore, that I
deeply sympathize with all endeavors to introduce
a greater tendency to virtuous action in our Society.
I would have none leave it-I would have none
lopped off who hold with us the few real essentials
of real association ; but would have us all stand
together in the spirit of an enlarged love, for the
cause of religion and of man.'
" Isaac T. Hopper."
66

CHAPTER IX.
1842-1849.
LOSS OF CHILDREN.
FROM LYDIA MARIA CHILD TO MRS. GIBBONS.
November 6, 1842.
“Dear Abby,
"Accept this little transparency from one who
would gladly show her gratitude and affection for
you by giving you a golden palace, if she had the
power. You will say this would be a useless gift,
even if I had it to offer ; but to you, it would not
be ; for you would take down your walls, piece by
piece, and feed the hungry and clothe the naked ;
and leave yourself no roof, but 'the blue sky that
bends o'er all.'
“Therefore, I would give you a golden palace if
I had it.
“Dear Abby, believe me, your goodness lies
recorded deep in my heart. It is not lost upon
me, either as daily refreshment or a stimulating
example. I thank you for your manifold, super-
abounding goodness to me ; for your unremitting
and sisterly love for John; for you filial tenderness
to your good old father; for the self-sacrific-
ing affection that encircles all your family; for
124

1842-49]
125
Loss of Children
the gushing benevolence that pities and blesses
all.
“Whatever be my destiny, you will ever be to
me as a dearly cherished sister. Be of good cheer
under this temporary affliction ; a little more pa-
tience will carry you through. I wish I could take
part of your suffering for you. God strengthen
you, bodily and spiritually, and long preserve you
to be a blessing like the sunshine, to all around
you.
“Most affectionately yours,
“L. Maria Child."
FROM EDMUND QUINCY.
“Dedham, Jan. 2, 1843.
“I wish you and yours a happy New Year, and
a great many of them. Though I don't know
whether it may not be wicked to wish you many,
as it may imply infidelity to the grand doctrine of
the World's Ending. I'm sure there are wicked
enough, if that's all-only I think it must take
more than one year to burn them all up. I should
think there was fuel plenty for a century. As to
the righteous—there won't be many of them, to
be sure; then what fun they will have! Only
think of being seated at your ease up in the air,
and seeing millions of the ungodly roasting, and
the Devil turning them every now and then with
his pitchfork! Why, an auto da fé was a fool to
it. The righteous may well give up plays and
shows and balls, when they have in reserve such a

126
(1842-
Abby bopper Gibbons
spectacle as this. All the bullfights and gladia-
torial shows that have ever been held, are not
worthy to hold a candle to it. I hope you 'll try to
be a good woman, so as to deserve to be treated to
a good place.
“This, however, by the way. It was the second
coming of your good father to Boston that moved
me to draw my glittering steel (pen) and attack
you just now. You can't think how glad we were
to see the dear old man again. He spent a night
with me to my great contentment and that of my
wife, and to the no small edification of my little
boy to whom breeches and buckles were phenom-
ena of as great curiosity as novelty. My Irish
gardener looked at them with reverence, having
probably seen nothing so aristocratic since he left
the old country. I love those relics of past time.
The Quakers were not so much out when they
censured their members for turning' sans culottes.'
Think of Isaac T. Hopper in a pair of pantaloons
strapped under his feet! There is 'flat burglary,'
if not damnable heresy in the idea. I tell my
father that the College has been going down hill
ever since the President left off wearing breeches
on Commencement Day.
"I heartily thank you for your kind letter of
which he was the bearer, and also for the pack of
cards which you (or James) sent to me.* I think
it will astonish some of my fashionable acquaint-
ances to find them reposing in the silver salver in
their Halls in Beacon St.
* With the picture of a kneeling slave.

1849]
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Loss of Children
“We had a grand Latimer convention here to-
day, for Norfolk County. Tremendous mass meet-
ing! Numerous and respectable ! Enthusiastic
in the highest degree ! I should think there were not
fewer present than thirty, counting the doorkeeper,
and a dog, that probably came in to swell our num-
bers. The latter, we thought of putting on the busi-
ness committee-but were apprehensive that he
might belong to the “ New Organization. Neverthe-
less, we had a President, two Vices, three Secretaries,
a Business Committee, and a fugitive slave. So, if
we don't make a good appearance in the news-
papers, the deuce is in it."
EXTRACT FROM JAMES'S JOURNAL.
66
1844, 12 mo. 15:-Our youngest child, James
S., after suffering for three weeks from a complica-
tion of distressing symptoms, caused primarily by
whooping cough, ceased to breathe at ten minutes
past twelve of the night of this day, aged one year
and twenty one days.
This terrible affliction
overwhelms us with grief. Time only, can enable
us to realize the consolations necessary to palliate
the force of a blow which paralyzes all power of
enjoyment, and indisposes us even to desire, much
more to seek energetically for relief. That con-
solations are within our reach, we know, but miti-
gated sorrow were less than we wish to render to
our dear departed child. The unrestrained in-
dulgence of grief is, itself, consolation ! The duties
of life, and especially those which we owe to our

I28
[1842-
Abby bopper Gibbons
other children, will enable us to find the support of
which we stand so much in need. Some hours of
grief-then to duty."
SARAH TO ABBY.
66
Philadelphia, 1st mo. 19th, 1845.
About three weeks
ago, Lucretia
preached an excellent sermon, I thought one of the
best I ever heard her utter. Rachel Bennet and
Mary Biddle visited her on account of it. She
asked what part of her discourse was offensive.
They hesitated at first, but upon her insisting, said
they wished her not to speak of abolition either in
Meeting for worship or Discipline. She told them
there was more to say than had ever been heard on
the subject. They told her it was inconsistent for
her to attend the convention where there was sing-
ing and asked if there was not singing there. She
replied that a person had set some of John Whit-
tier's poetry to music and sung it, but it was more
pleasing to hear than Mary Rowland's or Amos
Peaslee's singing. * I should not think it worth
mentioning except to show that waters do not run
smooth this way.
“Geo. White said, after congratulating the peo-
ple that abolition was dead,' that ' now it was proper
that matters of minor importance should claim the
attention of the Society. I suppose these party
* An allusion to the manner of preaching, common among
Friends, when the voice rises and falls in a monotonous but
rhythmical sing-song. There were notable exceptions to this
rule, Lucretia Mott and some others never practising it.

1849]
129
Loss of Children
affairs among you rank among the 'minors.'
Thy sweet, natural outpourings in thy last, made
me cry scalding tears. My love, especially, to
Willie. When I compare him with some others of
his age, he seems very much of a man. Write
soon to
“Thy loving sister."
Dr. William Gibbons, James's father, died at his
home in Wilmington, Delaware, on the 25th of
July, 1845, at the age of sixty-four. Though his
years did not extend to the scriptural three-score
and ten, he had enjoyed a full and active life, and
left behind him a long record of good works. His
busy mind engaged him in scientific research, and
philological study; he also had a keen taste for
the natural sciences, and was deeply interested in
the culture of ornamental plants and fine fruit
trees. He was one of the first to begin silkworm
culture.
His pen was always ready to defend the op-
pressed, to expose fraud, to assist the needy.
took a warm interest in promoting the education
of the African race, and was one of the founders
and managers of a school for colored children,
which was in successful operation for many years.
He was also president of the first State Temperance
Society of Delaware.
His residence, a short distance from the centre
of the town, embraced several acres of land set
out with fine trees of many varieties, all of his own
raising and grafted with his own hand. In the

130
[1842-
Ebby bopper Gibbons
mansion which he built here soon after his mar-
riage, he and his noble wife raised a family of
thirteen children.
Dr. Gibbons was a prominent member of the
Society of Friends. Beloved as a physician and
honored as a man, he left to his family a proud in-
heritance of all that was good, added to intellectual
gifts of an unusually high order.
Such was the respect of his fellow-citizens that
at the time of his illness, the main street was ordered
to be closed against the passage of carriages before
the door, lest the noise should disturb him.
SARAH, FROM HER FATHER.
“New-York, 9/9, 1845.
“Willie is a fine boy. I hope some day he will
make a clever Friend. I much desire to see all
my children and grandchildren consistent Friends
before I die. I think I shall then be willing to
leave them.”
JAMES TO HIS LITTLE SON ISAAC.
“My dear son Isaac,
“Is it true that cousin Edward plays on the fid-
dle and puts thee to sleep? That is pretty great.
I wish our Piganninies had somebody to fiddle
them to sleep. They have grown big since thee
saw them. Whenever they see me at work in
the garden, they begin to squeal at me, and won't
stop till I give them something to eat. If I go up
to the pen and talk to them they stop squealing,

1849]
131
Loss of Children
but the minute I go away they set up their pipes
again. Dick likes to be petted as well as a dog
and will hold his snout up to have it scratched. Rose
is not so tame. She won't stand still but jumps as
soon as she is touched. Reedy wants thee to come
home. We have ripe tomatoes and lima beans in
the garden, waiting for thy little teeth.
“Thy affectionate Father."
Isaac was called "grandson to his grandfather."
ABBY TO SUSAN.
“New-York, Nov. 2nd, 1845.
“Willie, Sallie and Lucy have gone to a party
at Dr. Beales'. I was proud of the trio, as I
beheld them (as I think) tastefully, yet simply
clad. Willie, in a suit of black, an elegant shirt,
made by Caroline, and one of my best white
handkerchiefs. Sally, in plaid delaine-brown,
white and blue plaid, inch and a half square, lace
round the neck-gold heart and cross and plenty
of petticoats—hair braided and tied with white
satin ribbon-two birds' nests.' Lucy, the veri-
est pink in all creation-a Venus, with her fair
hair and pink complexion, graceful as a fawn, and
voice like a bird's. Dressed in pure white and
coral necklace-a perfect beauty, unadorned,
bewitching all.
“And here sits Julia by my side, writing a letter-
would not go to the party, because it would be
out of character and she has no taste for it. Her
father seemed to insist, as he said, that she might

132
[1842-
Abby hopper Gibbons
learn how to behave herself; but she being the
daughter, and I the mother, he was over-ruled.
It is no trouble to me, if she occasionally sits on
one foot, or speaks at the top of her voice, or
spreads out at full length; she has goodness of
heart, with other rare qualities-enough to out-
weigh all deficiencies; and I would rather have
her Nature's own child, than with all the airs and
graces to be acquired at a tea party.
Isaac is decidedly his own master and has him-
self under admirable control. Mrs. Hatch was
here to-day and said she would give a fortune
for such a boy. . . Say to Sister Sarah, the
bookmarker was made entirely by Julia. She cut
it and worked it, and did all, from beginning to
end-her own choice of motto-and tied it up
herself. She will be a good helpful girl.
"I dread the day when our bairns will become
lads and lasses. I shall keep them children as
long as possible. Father is in high good spirits
and remarkably well."
FROM FRIEND HOPPER.
New-York, 2 mo. 6th, 1846.
The Prison Association have not yet
made their arrangements for the ensuing year ;
when they do, I have no doubt that they will give
an omnibus ticket. We have some trouble-
some men in our Committee, who seem deter-
mined to introduce and carry out their sectarian
notions ; but they are too few in numbers to do
me

1849)
133
Loss of Cbildren
much harm. At the last meeting, we appointed
a Committee of Women to have the management
of the 'Home.' When the name of 'Mrs. Gib-
bons' was proposed, R. N. Havens made a speech
in which he strongly objected to her. When he
took his seat, W. C. Russel moved the previous
question--that is, to take the question without
further discussion; the question was then put and
carried in favor of 'Mrs. Gibbons,' 12 to 5.
The next day, three of those who voted against
her, said they had been deceived, and one of them
declared that he would not have voted against her
for fifty dollars, if he had known who she was."
TO MRS. WESTON, OR CAROLINE, OR BOTH.
66
"Welcome! My dear Mrs. Weston, to our city
once more! I intended to see thee before
now,
but
the truth is Mrs. Child came to us on Friday last,
and since that time we have been occupied from
early till late about dear father's affairs.
“Let me tell you I am ready to assist you in all
sorts of ways within the bounds of my capacity
and I trust you will not be slow to ask. If I can-
not answer a demand, I will speak in that free-
dom which true friendship calls for.
“Do you need permanent help? If so, pray
try Margaret Burke who is with you. I shall see
you in a very few days, and shall trust to your
sending word if there is anything I can do for
you.
“Did the upholsterer appear, and did she serve

134
[1842–
Abby bopper Gibbons
you well, and do ‘my sisters' do their best to set
your house in order ?”
9)
The “sisters” referred to were inmates of the
“Home” for discharged prisoners.
The following scrap found in Mrs. Gibbons's
handwriting will serve as an introduction to what
follows:
“The City's poor children were first visited at
what was called the Long Island Farms. The
buildings occupied by them were burnt to the
ground, and I happened to be there in company
with Catherine M. Sedgwick, when they were
being removed to a wooden building on Black-
well's Island We crossed over in a scow and a
sadder sight than these blind and crippled chil-
dren, sick in body, crushed in spirit, my eyes never
witnessed.
“ Their crowded condition made it necessary to
provide better shelter, and it was Moses G. Leon-
ard, Almshouse Commissioner, under whose direc-
tion Randall's Island was made their home, and
it was he who was their City Father and whom
they loved and looked up to as their best friend.
Many of their mothers were inmates of the
Home.'”
FROM JAMES'S JOURNAL.
1846, July 4 :-Floral Fête at Long Island
Farms—Glorious fourth ! day to be remembered !
Some of the dear friends of orphanical humanity,
have been running and riding and begging and
writing and working most praiseworthily for ten
66

1849]
135
Loss of Children
days past, to collect flowers, cakes, fruit, &c.
wherewith to regale the city's children at Long
Island Farms, on this glorious anniversary of
Yankeeistical Independence. And did n't we hope
for a blue sky and an auspicious day? We suc-
ceeded in getting flowers donated from Flushing,
New-Rochelle, Newark, Pokeepsie, Albany, Hart's
Village, Lenox, Mass. and from many city garden-
ers, which made about three hundred boquets,
besides crosses covered with moss, moss-baskets
and wreaths (from Boston);—and we expected to
array the children in procession, with these in their
hands. Then, to give them a picnic on the river
banks, with such exercises as the occasion might
suggest. Then, sell the flowers to the visitors,
and, with the proceeds, purchase books, toys,
tools, and other means of amusement, occupation,
instruction, &c. for the six hundred children
of the Farms, who need everything and have
nothing; and whose initial lesson, on going there,
is to learn practically that they are the most miser-
able little wretches in all creation, that obe nce
to hirelings is their first duty, and to expect noth-
ing. Secondly, gratitude for bad treatment ; and
thirdly, any quantity of the same stuff continued.
Well, back to the day again ! We
hoped for a fair one—it was ten times foul! When
the rain did n't pour, the mist blew like driving
sand ; and if there was a momentary cessation of
both, it was only breathing time for the wind and
clouds; for, at it again they went with renewed
energy. We were not to be discouraged by this,

136
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Elbby Thopper Gibbons
however ; and, accordingly, left home, (ourselves
with five children), with the party, at six A.m., and,
collecting our store of fruits and flowers from their
different localities, arrived per omnibus at the
Ferry whence the Boat was to leave for the Farms
at eight o'clock. Nothing was auspicious—the
Captain declined going before half past ten o'clock.
We waited as patiently as poor Christians could,
and, finally set off, amidst rain, and mist, wind and
discouragement. Everything was adverse and per-
verse, excepting always, our party. The boat made
her landings with difficulty but reached the Farms
about noon. The children were collected in the
chapel, drumming through (to them) the dullest of
all exercises-reading the Scriptures and the Dec-
laration of Independence, making prayers about
love, and speeches about fighting, singing songs &c.,
at which they were gracelessly detained two hours.
“ Meantime, the table was spread in a large hall,
and, at the end of the 'service,' they scampered off
bodily to the scene of action, where they were
abundantly furnished with eatables, which they
understood much better than the 'exercises.'
“At four P.M., we returned to the city in the
midst of increasing rain, wind and mist, all in the
best humor,' notwithstanding the storm, and deter-
mining to try the same over again next year, on a
grander scale."
EXTRACT FROM JAMES'S JOURNAL.
66
1847, February 12th : Mary Hopper, Willie
and Sally went to a party this evening at Salter's,

1849]
137
Loss of Children
Came home about midnight and went to bed a
little before one. The mother calls up stairs to
tell Sally she need not get up in the morning, but
sleep as late as she chooses, and Sally asks in reply,
'Mother, may I get up in the afternoon ?' to which
she gets the good woman's consent.”
EXTRACT FROM JOURNAL.
“ 1847, March 29th : Our dear son, Isaac, was
first attacked with croup on the night of the 19th ;
from which he apparently recovered. On the 28th,
he became alarmingly ill and died on the 29th at
half-past three P.M., aged five years, six months and
twenty days.
“At several times during the past year, our dar-
ling has spoken to me of his brother James who
was taken from us at the age of one year in Dec.
1844, and asked me 'if he came flying down near
us, could we not keep him ?' .. About three
weeks before his death, he was conversing with me
on some casual subjects, and expressed his opinion
to me that he was going to die ' ;-which gave my
heart a severe pang and I immediately turned his
thoughts to other things. In all this, in our own
presentiments and feelings, and in his singular re-
marks on the subject of death, made to both his
mother and father, we may not profess to see any-
thing more remarkable than is frequently seen in
children of commonly good intellect; who, it must
be admitted, seem often to be favored with clearer
premonitions of the future than people of advanced

138
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years and mature reflection. But there is no rec-
ollection of our darling boy, that we would will-
ingly suffer to escape us.
Our hearts' treasures are
in the memories of him and his little brother, as
well as in the four lovely children with whom we
are still blessed by the great Father of Life.
. . Immediately before his sufferings ceased,
he turned his head to his mother who watched by
his bedside, and his full face was radiant with
expression of tenderest love. Then, the powers of
life gradually subsided, and his last breath was
drawn within twelve or fifteen minutes."
66
This follows, in the mother's writing :
“To the outpourings of a father's tenderness may
be added this testimony of a mother's love. Sweet
angel! hearts idol ! our love for thee knew no
bounds. A spirit too pure for this earth, 'too
beautiful to live! Is there anything that shoots
through this world so swiftly as a sunbeam ?'
“Often do I hear thy sweet voice saying: 'It
is mother ! let me open the door !' and when ar-
ranging my work, the darling at my side reading,
drawing, cutting paper, playing with his toys, or
engaged in any of the thousand occupations to
which he was daily accustomed ; in the fullness of
his affectionate heart, would he exclaim: “We
have nice times together, Ma, don't we?' and we
will have nice times together' again, my dearest
Oh, what a mournful blank in the home cir-
cle ! deeper and darker desolateness, the more the
heart-breaking reality is felt by us!”
one.

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Loss of Children
MISS SEDGWICK TO MRS. GIBBONS.
" Spring, 1847
“I was truly sorry to come off without taking
leave of you, and going once more to the 'Home.'
I was out of town on Sunday last, at a friend's ;
and, during the four following days, (with the
abatement of one rainy one,) I was completely oc-
cupied. Indeed, I put off my departure one day,
in the hope of seeing you and another friend. I
wanted to have talked with you again about the
scheme of the Fête for the Farm School, (West
Farms), but as the trouble would all be yours, I
could only have heard your decision and not aided
your deliberations. I hope, my dear Mrs. Gibbons,
that
you
and your husband have some relaxation
in prospect for the summer. It seems to me that,
with your burden of sorrow, you particularly need
it-tho' for that, you have adopted, in your untiring
benevolence, a sacred and sure relief.
THE SAME.
66
4th mo. 21st, 1847.
“Thank you, my dear Mrs. Gibbons, for the ser-
vices of Willie, for your kind note and for your
speaking flowers.
“Is there not an angel of consolation in the activ-
ity of benevolence? You are wise in yielding to
its heavenly influence.
“There is nothing to take the place of the young-
est ; but remember, my friend, you have had this

140
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sweet child, and he is now your treasure safe in
Heaven-the angel that stands before your Father's
face.”
ABBY TO SARAH.
“New-York, 5 mo. 26th, 1847.
The blow stunned me. I cannot yet realize the
mournful fact that our angel boy, our life's sunlight,
is no more round about us. I listen for his sweet
voice by day and hear him breathe through all the
night. I believe I appear as usual, for I have de-
sired that ourselves alone should feel the weight
of this terrible calamity. Sometimes, I am over-
whelmed, as is the case to-night. Such an utter
desolation comes over us ! The sweetest life that
mortal could enjoy, and beautiful in death! An
account written by his father shall be forthcoming
when I can copy it. It will tell of his remarkable
patience in suffering, and that he talked with us
until fifteen minutes of his death. He was not
like a dying child—so natural, so like himself, to
the latest moment. The morning of the last day
he kissed us all, and when he saw that we were
afflicted, in the sweetest tone and with the most
heavenly expression, he said, 'I think it don't hurt
me to breathe quite so much. It was strange that
he should have said to his Father three weeks
previous: “Father, I believe I am going to die !!
"We are quiet and perhaps cheerful under this
affliction—to feel resignation, can never be our
experience.
“Emily Dunn shall be transported as soon as a

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Loss of Children
care-taker is found for her. Aunt Ann is good to
be a mother to her. Pray beg somebody to take
poor Tom-he is a good, industrious, faithful little
fellow and will serve a family an excellent turn.
He is still at father's waiting for a home and they
do not need him. A farmer's is the life for him.”
وو
The children referred to—Emily and Tom-
were two of a legacy of seven children left to Mrs.
Gibbons by Jane Dunn, once a trusted servant of
Friend Hopper. Mrs. Gibbons was with her when
she died. As the breath left her body, her husband,
Pat, snatched her wedding-ring from her finger
and, handing it to Mrs. Gibbons, said: “That is
for you." Mrs. Gibbons said : "No, this must go
to Mary Jane, the eldest daughter," and so it did.
Pat's exclamation on the death of his wife became
a by-word in the family. “Well, Jane, you 've
had a hard time of it. I hope you 're getting a
little recreation now." Jane was excellent
woman, greatly superior to her husband, who
drank. The children were placed with friends
and, for the most part, turned out well. One died,
and two were adopted by different members of
Mrs. Gibbons's family.
وو
an
TO WILLIE FROM HIS MOTHER.
" New-York, 8th mo. 12th, 1847.
“We long to see thee. At the same time, would be
very sorry to deprive thee of the pleasure of making
a visit to uncles, aunts, and cousins. I have been
glad to know thee was enjoying a choice of places,

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and can easily imagine how a boy can take real
pleasure on a farm.
"I shall ask lots of questions when thee comes
home, Willie ; it is quite flattering and very grati-
fying to hear of thy usefulness at the store. All
are very impatient for thy return, and although it
would be thy pleasure to remain, it is my wish and
hope that thee may come with satisfied feelings,
light-hearted and happy-remembering that we
must never feel it a hardship to return to duty.
Every human being ought to be useful in the
world. We have our various gifts, and should con-
tribute to the comfort one of another. Uncle John
laughs at thy mother's gift, but she is able to be
laughed at, and feels better when she has taken an
old hag from the gutter, put her in circumstances
to become a woman, and enjoy some of life's little
flowers. And I would say to thee, dearest Willie,
if it seems a trying task to return to labour, from a
sweet country life, bear in mind that we do not live
for ourselves alone. However, all this is superflu-
ous, for I well know it is thy happiness to assist thy
father and those who employ him. It is always
pleasant to work for those who appreciate our
labour.
TO SUSAN.
"'46 or '47.
“... Rachel was over yesterday through all
the weather. She is very persevering, happy as a
queen, and certainly has reason to be—for she has
her cottage of content—her own garden, own pig,

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Loss of Children
and they mean to have their own chickens and
their own neighbours. Rachel never moved into a
neighbourhood yet without finding such neigh-
bours as nobody else could boast of--and now
they cap all the old ones.”
FROM MISS SEDGWICK.
66
Lenox, 20th Sept., '47.
"As good as gold' is considered a superlative
commendation, but how much better than gold is
the heart, my dear friend, that sent forth such a
letter as your last. I think nothing short of the
feeling that you were doing a work of love and
charity, would have made you so far exceed the
length of your usually short and pithy letters. I
shall preserve this to be put in your Memoirs
(Heaven raise up some one fitted to write them !)
as an exemplification of how far you could rise in
your comical, as in your serious moods. Thanks
to you, to your husband, and to the dear girls for
the generous warmth of your invitation. I feel the
exceeding goodness of my Heavenly Father in
giving me such friends in supporting me by such
true voluntary kindness and disinterested affection,
when the natural supports of my life have been re-
moved—and I assure you, my dear friends, that I
should go to you as to the next of kin, when I go
from my own household. Such a tempting picture
as you have made of that room, warmed by natural
heat more than by cannel coal, with the eternal sun-
shine of loving faces '-better than its Southern
aspect !
..

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FROM MISS SEDGWICK.
(
'Lenox, 28th Dec, '47.
“It is my first duty, as well as my first pleasure,
on returning to Lenox, to reply to your kind letter,
the receipt of which my brother acknowledged last
evening. I have thought of you many times, my
dear friend, since our treasure on Earth became
like yours, an Angel in Heaven, and I have felt
that one of the greatest uses of suffering was to
warm our sympathy. You took the blow so pa-
tiently, so wisely, so dutifully, that you made me
feel how much stronger you were than I could be,
and I felt unable to offer you consolation. Since
I have suffered with you,
I know how many
throbs
of grief you have repressed, and how courageously
you went forth to carry light, when darkness shut
in your own horizon. Oh, how deep these little
creatures strike their roots into our hearts ! how
they shed light before and behind them ! how their
little hands hold open the gates of death that we
may see beyond! Can we doubt that they are God's
messengers to us, and can we resist their drawing
us to their Father and our Father?
TO WILLIE FROM HIS MOTHER.
“New-York, 5/11-1848.
“We miss thee, dearest Willie, more than words
can tell, and morning, noon, and night, we repeat
it. So says grandfather and that it is lonely on ist
day when his grandson is not there. We should

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Loss of Children
not feel the blank thy absence makes as we do, if
thou wast not our happy, cheerful boy-happy be-
cause thou art a good boy. I do not say that all
thee does is as it should be, but I can say thou hast
never afflicted us. Thus may it always be! But
a few years we dwell together, and let the few be
passed in comforting and assisting each other. We
owe very much to our children and I hope we
shall act out the duty we feel we owe, as far as in
our ability lies.
“The Anniversaries are over-the city has been
filled with 'Reformation people,' as Jennie Bar-
rett calls them. We have heard grand addresses
on various subjects—Anti-Slavery, Anti-Capital-
Punishment, and so forth. We have had the great-
est men of the age. Full, at grandfather's-nobody
with us because we are far away. One day, I took
Julia and Lucy, another, Sally ;-only for the
change and because they could not comprehend
-much that was said would have interested thee,
but it is better thou shouldst not hear, for thou hast
not yet enough years to give thee an intelligent
judgment and I want thee to keep tranquil and
have no sentiments, until years and education fur-
nish thee with discretion and a due amount of
intelligence.
“Our garden is beautiful and we have much to
admire and something to eat—all the result of thy
father's industry, together with thy own helping
hand. Radishes, salad, and pepper-grass furnish
our table abundantly—and thou knowest I enjoy
every green thing.
IO

146
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Abby Ibopper Gibbons
“Be faithful to Uncle William and Aunt Mary.
Make use of thy eyes, and see when, and where,
thou canst be useful. Take all the pleasure thee
can get and come to us a patient, satisfied, child.
That will remind thee that impatience is one of thy
faults, and requires consideration and amendment.'
FROM MRS. CAROLINE M. KIRKLAND.
“Naples, July 13, 1848.
“Even at this far side of the world and after some
four thousand miles of travel, I think of the
'Home' and its friends, and wish some good gen-
ius could give me private intelligence of your pres-
ent condition and prospects. I know that you and
some few others continue faithful, but I ask myself
what is the hope from that great public on whose
sympathy our success must depend? ... At
this moment, the full moon is shining on the Bay
of Naples, Vesuvius with his fiery crown on one
side, and high hills all around with the island of
Capri in front—all which I see from my window as
I write. Naples is full of outward beauty ; but
within, of poverty and dirt. When you ride through
the streets, the crowd is so great that the coach-
man is obliged to be continually shouting to avoid
running over people. Many thousands of the
population have no dwellings, but sleep out of
doors and live anyhow. They are a wretched and
oppressed people, but good-humored and very
affectionate.
“The present state of Europe is such as to inter-

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Loss of Cbildren
fere not a little with our travelling plans. We shall
not be able to go to Venice or Vienna, on account
of the war with Austria, and the dreadful doings at
Paris will make it unpleasant to visit there. Eu-
rope seems like a volcano on the eve of an eruption
-her premonitory symptoms are very threatening.
The people are determined on liberty, and some
of their rulers are determined to keep it from them
as long as they can. We have seen the Pope a
number of times in public, and once, face to face,
when he spoke of his wishes and intentions very
freely. We consider him a man of liberal senti-
ments, and quite an exception to the rest of Euro-
pean sovereigns.
"Our faces are now set homewards, although we
have many miles to travel before us. . I
think I shall never regret this journey. One feels
that improvement is almost the necessary conse-
quence of foreign travel. We not only see much
that is new, but we learn to know ourselves better.
love to our sisters' of the 'Home.'
May peace and love preside over your deliberations,
and success attend your efforts !”
Give my
ABBY TO SUSAN.
“ New-York, 12/28th, 1848.
'A merry Christmas' my dear sister, and may
the coming year prove a very happy one to thee !
and I see no reason why it should not, for thou art
earning enough to make thee independent, that
thou will ‘know neither want nor care '-of this
fact, thou art proud, I know.

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Abby hopper Gibbons
'In all the storm, we went on Christmas day to
Randall's Island, a merry, happy party. Our good
humane Commissioner, (Moses G. Leonard) bless-
ings on him for all he is doing for the poor children !
invited us to meet at father's office. He brought
an omnibus, which the party filled to overflowing-
we had four horses-went to the foot of 122nd
street and crossed in rowboats. Now for the names
of all!
“We passed cake to the children (provided by
the Commissioner) and then we were invited to a
magnificent dinner. The only thing I did not ad-
mire was, that Brandy-sling was handed upon our
arrival, to prevent our taking cold. I protested
against it and declared that the Ladies would not
take a drop. I was opposed, however, by the hus-
band of one, who told me he knew more of women
than I did.
“Well, to my surprise, I had the honor to be the
only woman who did not gulp it down. So I think
I must turn to and try to reform reformers. Took
it as medicine, understand.”

CHAPTER X.
1849-1852.
WOMEN'S PRISON ASSOCIATION AND HOME.
MR. GIBBONS TO CAROLINE WESTON.
SUN
“ New-York, June 17th, 1849.
UNDAY evening. Abby has gone to the
'Home' to attend religious service, not for
the benefit that her own soul might, or may,
stand in the way of, but to encourage the general
spirit of order among the inmates. That, thou
knowest, is the Female department of the Prison Re-
form Association. They have generally a kind of lay
preaching there, well or ill adapted, as it chances,
for improving the state of the subjects. I have
been surprised to find among these poor women,
some of whom have been in the habit of gross
intemperance for ten or twenty years, a soundness
and healthiness of judgment in spiritual matters
which compares favorably with that of the gener-
ality of people better situated. They are decid-
edly 'sharp,' and have a remarkable power of
discrimination with respect to the mental calibre
of the preachers.
“A week since, one of the brethren addressed
himself personally to some of them after the ser-
149

150
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Abby bopper Gibbons
vice was over, and asked one whether she loved
the Lord.' Imagine the question whined out in
the style of a real steam-revivalist, and consider
the answer as pertly spoken as possible,
“I don't care much about him, Sir.'
“Two or three months ago, one of the City mis-
sionaries went there and preached against the
Catholics, stating some facts relative to the easy
terms upon which the priests promise to get sinners
into Heaven's gates. There were twenty-eight wo-
men of the working classes' present, twenty-two of
whom were Catholics, and they justly esteemed it
an insult to religion as well as to themselves. One
of them interrupted the brother by saying very
deliberately :
"You lie, Sir. Hoary-headed man as you are, you
lie, Sir,' and a considerable altercation arose, which
ended by several of the women leaving the room.
“The 'brother' was requested by the lady man-
agers, of whom Miss Catherine M. Sedgwick is
chief, to cease his visits, as they were no longer
acceptable—a just concession to the spirit of Free-
dom which shines through Vice brightly enough
to eclipse and put to shame the tallow-candleism
of the Church.
“The brother' had sense enough to see his
mistake, and requested permission to be allowed
the privilege of speaking again to the women.
Permission was granted, and he made an apology
for what he had said.
“So much to enlighten thee as to the progress
of 'Women's Rights' on this side of the Atlantic.

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Women's Prison Association
There is always sublimity in a fearless, extempora-
neous, instant asseveration of Truth and Right.
No smooth philosopher could have used up that
brother half so effectually. .
TO WILLIE FROM HIS MOTHER.
“ New-York, 9/11, 1849.
“I do long to see thee and hear thy voice once
more, and hope the day is not distant when I may
have the great comfort, and I do earnestly hope
that, in all things, thee remembers the wishes of
thy parents. Thou hast been a dutiful son so far,
and in return, I shall study thy comfort and, so
far as lies in my power, add to thy happiness. I
am glad if thee abstains entirely from all sangarees
and other drinks and preparations where wine is
used, even though there be but a drop. Those
who practice the indulgence may ridicule the idea ;
but I know enough in my own experience (aside
from any of The Home'associations), to make
me very watchful of my dear children. If I
thought thee was not extremely careful, it would
grieve me.
“Be moderate in all things. I have no objec-
tion to games if too much time is not wasted ; they
do well to pass away a weary hour, and to those
who are fond of them are a wholesome recreation."
ABBY TO SARAH.
" Paradise Regained, 5/22, 1851.
"With the speed of a locomotive, I must an-
nounce to brothers, sisters, and friends, that we

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are in a state of preparation to receive you at No.
19 Lamartine Place, where we already feel at
home, having all that constitutes home, about us.
We left in sadness the dear, familiar places we
had known with our hidden
away treasure, but
we brought with us all the beautiful memories,
and we feel better now that we are out of sight
of the Rookery,' with all its dismalities...
« The children must tell thee about our new
house. I was in a state of desperation about the
stair-carpet, not expecting father would tolerate
it-to my surprise, he called it handsome, and was
really pleased. I took him into the parlour, and
what I supposed he would not notice, he groaned
aloud about, and said 'extravagant!'
Said I:
'I don't know, father.' "Thee ought to know,'
was the reply. He relieved his mind, and when
he was ready to go kissed away the reproof. The
fact is, I was rather uneasy myself about green
plush, though it was dark green, but I am forever
doing things against my own judgment to satisfy
others. I cannot appreciate the desire for costly
or fine furniture. I like the peculiarity of plain-
ness, because everything else is common. I had
an eye to pleasing husband and children and re-
pented too late ; and yet there is comfort in seeing
those around me pleased. I have no heart for
finery.
“I talk of going out to Herkimer to visit a paper
manufacturer who employs our 'Home' girls,
They are nice people, and have many times writ-
ten for me, and by way of inducement promised

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me a ride to Trenton Falls, twenty miles distant
from their residence. They have carriage and
horses, and I want to see sights. I am tired of
the same old thing. It does one good to go into
the wide world.
“Willie is at Court to-day, hearing Rufus Choate,
in the Church case, now pending; he is loving the
law with his whole heart. I do believe he has great
gifts for the profession, and that he will be A No. 1.
Julia is a full team ; and Lucy, a perfect 'Estelle.'
She came into my bed to-day and said she was
after a kiss from that tempting face and to put her
arms around that tempting body.' James sees Sally
quite a beauty and really believes it unsafe to trust
her out of sight, but declares it to be impossible to
bring me to a sense of the danger. I have educated
my girls to take care of themselves. I hope they will
grow up women-abhorring all ladyisms.
Willie is caressed, and I hope will not be
spoiled. He is very popular with young ladies
and has more invitations than he is allowed to ac-
cept. There was a large party given in one of our
boarding- and day-schools, and he was selected to
crown the Queen and make a speech. I am told
he acquitted himself handsomely. I cautioned
him loudly and at length, NOT TO MAKE A FOOL
OF HIMSELF."
(6
TO WILLIE FROM HIS MOTHER.
“New-York, 8/14, 1851.
“I found thy father really sick ; there was no
make believe about it; he said if I had not come

154
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home on 7th day he should have thought he was
going to die. A visit to Long Branch with Sally
and myself did him a world of good. Last night
I laid awake till midnight thinking of thee. I can-
not tell why, but I could not sleep for thinking of
thee. I hope thou art fulfilling all thy duties
towards friends and relations. There is one trait
in thy character I am glad to discover, and that is,
that thee always allows thy own opinion to govern
thee. Always act upon thy own judgment, not
allowing thy father's and mother's prejudices to
influence thee. Seek out and appreciate the good
things in thy friends, and pass the evil by. Re-
member that our prejudices are too apt to govern
When thee hears evil, believe less than half;
of good, take in all.
"The longer I live, the more idle it appears to me
to make ourselves uncomfortable with the peculiar-
ities of our friends; they have a right to them,
and especially if of our own blood, for I know
none of the name who are not marked. I speak to
thee as my thoughts arise, knowing my own short-
comings; but thou hast sense enough to see where
I am wrong, therefore, allow me to say the words I
may not happen to act out."
The two elder daughters had recently been sent
to Mrs. Sedgwick's school at Lenox.
us.
TO SALLY AND JULIA.
66
“New-York, 11/21, 1851.
I hope, my dear children, you like your
school, and, as I believe and hope that you desire

1852)
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Women's Prison Association
more.
If you
to act according to the wishes of your parents, I
feel that you will be able to do all you can to make
each other comfortable, and to please your excel-
lent Teacher, dear Mrs. Sedgwick. By this time
you have learned to know her better, and love her
Remember it is her wish to do the best she
can for you, and though at times her requirements
may appear hard, it is necessary for you to sacri-
fice your private feelings for future good. Always
be ladylike and respectful. Strive to seek oppor-
tunities to serve her and to please her.
study diligently and cheerfully, wasting no time in
idle complaints, I promise you that dear Willie
shall pass Christmas with you. I have talked with
your father about it, and he consents, provided you
are faithful in the performance of your duties.
"Be womanly, my dear children, bear in mind
how great our sacrifice, when we bring our minds
to having you away and deprive ourselves of your
company and assistance. Whenever I miss you, I
comfort myself with the thought that time will
pass, and that you will return to us fitted to enjoy
life and to make those about you happy.
My Sally, my Julia, -write to us soon and make
us happy by telling us that you desire to appreci-
ate the opportunity now afforded you, and most
certainly shall your brother Willie visit you at
Christmas."
66
TO SALLY AND JULIA.
66
New-York, 12, 9th, 1851.
“I do not think well of writing too often. It
cannot contribute largely to your happiness, and

156
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would occupy too much of your precious time. I
desire that you should become useful women and
not babyish. Let me
see that you have good
courage, and can bear with becoming fortitude the
little trials to which all are subject in this life. I
think of you continually, and you know my heart
is full of love for
you
both.
"It is always idle to write unless we have some-
thing special to say. Once in a while, write to
your friends—such as you know we approve-to no
others. It falls to a mother's lot often to speak to
her children with great plainness ; it is no evidence
that she is wanting in affection, for is it not her
duty to guide you, to guard you, and to keep you
from all harm ?
“Never write for the sake of covering paper.
'If you have nothing to say, say nothing.' This
was the advice of my dearly beloved mother, and
I hand it down to you. We were not so well
pleased with the appearance of the letters received
to-day, as with those which preceded. They were
hastily and carelessly written. The first page of
Sally's was so faint that my poor eyes suffered from
the reading. There was too much said at random.
They contained many pleasant words, and we were
glad, very glad, to hear from you, but I know Mrs.
Sedgwick would have condemned them. What
you have to say, say in as few words as possible,
and you will find it less of a task to write. Take
time, do not aim to finish your letters at a given
moment, but at leisure.
Grandfather sends his love to you, and says 'tell
66

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Women's Prison Association
them I will write as soon as I am better. Write
soon to Uncle Si and put it in the envelope to us.
We do enjoy your letters because they seem as if
you were talking to us. When you write to your
cousins, always say something about Uncle Josiah,
because he is far away and every remembrance is
pleasant.
'Be sure of the tenderest love of your
Mother."
66
66
TO SALLY AND JULIA.
66
“New-York, 12/29, 1851.
“My Precious Children,
I sent 70 dolls, dressed and with a little
bag of candy round the neck of each, to the sick
children at Randall's Island—and your accordeon,
as you expressed a readiness to let them have it.
A letter from the physician states how happy they
were made by the remembrance. Poor children !
no father, no mother, to care for them. I was
thinking that if you had a few yards of calico, you
could make some dresses for small dolls. It would
be convenient work for you, and will turn to some
account, for I expect to keep these poor sick chil-
dren supplied with dolls and toys, while I live.
The healthy are often treated to cakes and candies,
but those in the Hospital cannot enjoy these and
are greatly relieved by having some amusement to
beguile the tedious hours. Many have lost the
use of their limbs, and time unemployed must
hang heavily upon their hands.

158
[1849-
Abby bopper Gibbons
TO SALLY AND JULIA.
with your
“New York, 1/13, 1852.
My daughters dear,
“How very differently we see things ! I have
reflected on the matter of staying out of school the
morning Willie left, and have come to the settled
conclusion (so have father and Willie) that you, my
dear children, were unjust in supposing for a mo-
ment that Mrs. Sedgwick would excuse you. Look
at the matter. Willie stayed on condition that it
should not interfere in any way,
studies.
If you are out of school when the lesson is to be
recited, it is a decided neglect of known duty ;
and you, my loved ones, are unjust in requiring
the time of another on Saturday, because, if these
lessons are omitted, you will of course be deficient
in that branch of study. Mrs. Sedgwick is relig-
iously and conscientiously just in desiring to give
your parents an equivalent for the sum paid for
your education. Now I am brought to the neces-
sity of speaking the truth in its plainness. You
viewed the matter only in a selfish point of view ;
your own private feelings were consulted ; you did
not bear in mind that Mrs. Sedgwick desired to be
just to your parents. Nor did you remember that
Willie Sedgwick's time was to be occupied, for
your neglect of duty. If your lessons are to be
passed over, we must be very
cautious about visit-
ing Lenox, because it will be in the way of your
advancement. I remember that I allowed you to
stay the morning I left; but that seemed a differ-

1852]
159
Women's Prison Association
ent affair, because your lessons had not com-
menced.
“I am delighted with the privilege you are per-
mitted to enjoy in doing anything for poor
Kossuth.* We had a plan to raise a clever amount
of money, but dear Grandfather was taken very
sick and we had no heart to work, so the matter
was deferred for the time. Grandfather has been
very feeble this winter, and for the last week, Dr.
Beales has attended him, and he is gradually im-
proving. We must remember that he is an old
man (now past eighty); he is very fresh and cheer-
ful as is his custom, but we must not think he will
live always. He has helped the poor, and has
worked for the needy all his life, and when his
work is done, we must let him go cheerfully. I
would not have him live after his constitution
gives way, for it would be a life of weariness to
him. He is so much better every day, that I would
not pretend to say that he will not be with us 15
years to come. We must take life in the best way.
Do not let your feelings run away with you-peo-
ple often suffer much, fearing sorrows may come;
never anticipate unpleasant things, and when they
come, bear up manfully, or as becomes women. It
is a weak mind that gives way in seasons of sorrow.
“As regards myself I am as well as I can be,
and enjoying all things. I am not grieving be-
cause you are away, I am looking forward with
* Mrs. Gibbons was interested in the Hungarian refugees,
and was one of a committee to call a public meeting for
Kossuth.

160
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Abby bopper Gibbons
great joy to our reunion, when I shall behold you
in our dear family circle, precious jewels, the lights
of the household.
"I say truly, we are well, excepting grandfather,
and he is improving. Write to him a cheerful let-
ter, just as if you were talking ; it does make him
laugh so to hear your letters read. True love to
dear Miss Sedgwick—treasure every word she says.
Write to your plain spoken, loving
“Mother."

CHAPTER XI.
1852-1853.
DEATH OF ISAAC T. HOPPER.
HIS proved to be Friend Hopper's last illness,
and the following extract from his life, by
Lydia Maria Child, tells the story of its
peaceful ending :
THIS
6
" Friend Hopper
worked continually and
worked for others.' In this way he brought on
his last illness. A shop had been built very far
up in the city, for a discharged convict, and the
Prison Association' had incurred considerable
expense on his account.
Friend Hopper
frequently travelled back and forth to examine
into his affairs. This was in the severe winter of
1852, and he was past eighty years old. He took
heavy colds, which produced inflammation of the
lungs.
Early in the Spring, he was con-
veyed to the house of his daughter, Mrs. Gibbons,
in the upper part of the city, it being supposed
that change of air and scene might prove beneficial,
It was afterwards deemed imprudent to move him.
His illness was attended with a good deal of physi-
cal suffering ; but he was uniformly patient and
cheerful. He often observed, 'There is no cloud.
161

162
[1852-
Abby hopper Gibbons
(6
66
There is nothing in my way. Nothing troubles me.'
His daughters left all other duties, and devoted
themselves exclusively to him. Never were the
declining hours of an old man watched over with
more devoted affection. Writing to his daughter
Mary, he said: 'I have the best nurses in New-
York; thy mother and sisters. I have every com-
fort that industry and ingenuity can supply. ..
After he was unable to rise to take his meals,
he asked to have two cups and plates brought to
him, if it were not too much trouble ; for he said
it would seem pleasant and like old times, to have
Hannah's company. So his wife ate with him as
long as he was able to partake of food.
At this period, his son-in-law, James S. Gib-
bons, wrote of him thus : Considering his long
bodily weakness, now ten weeks, he is in an ex-
traordinary state of mental strength and clearness.
Reminiscences are continually falling from his lips,
like leaves in autumn from an old forest tree; not
indeed green, but rich in the colors that are of the
tree, and characteristic. Thou hast known him in
the extraordinary vigor and freshness of his old
age ; cheating time even out of turning his hair
gray.
But thou shouldst see him now; when, to
use his own words, he feels that “the messenger
has come." All his thoughts have tended to and
reached this point. The only question now is of
a few more days. Though prostrate in body his
mind is like a sturdy old oak, that don't care
which way the wind blows. As I sat by his bed-
side last evening, I thought I never had seen so
beautiful a close to a good man's life.'

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Death of lsaac T. bopper
“ Friend Hopper died on the seventh of May,
1852. 'No public buildings were hung with crape,
when news went forth that the Good Samaritan
had gone. But prisoners, and poor creatures in
dark and desolate corners, wept when they heard
the tidings.'”
JAMES H. TITUS TO MR. GIBBONS.
66
May roth, 1852.
“My dear Sir,
“You will understand the disappointment and
apprehend the regret I experienced in being pre-
vented from taking part in the last sad offices of
respect about to be rendered to the remains of your
venerated and much lamented Father-in-law.
"I have ever considered it one of the happy and
fortunate incidents of my life, to have had the
privilege of an acquaintance with Friend Isaac T.
Hopper, and shall ever recur to his memory with
pleasure, and I trust with that moral advantage
which the recollection of his Christian virtues is so
eminently calculated to produce. How insignificant
the reputation of riches ! how unsatisfactory the
renown of victory in war! how transient political
fame! when compared with the history of a long
life spent in services rendered to the afflicted
and the unfortunate! ! ! This contrast forcibly
presses on my mind in my reflection on the death
of Isaac T. Hopper, The Philanthropist.
Please name to your good wife my sincere
sympathy in her sorrow for the loss of such
father. Still I know that she has the abiding
consolation in her grief, that her loss is his gain ;-
66

164
[1852-
Abby bopper Gibbons
and I devoutly hope that we all may have grace
granted us to follow, according to our talents, the
righteous example he has left us.”
JOHN D. RUSS TO MRS. GIBBONS.
“New-York, July 9th, 1852.
“I wish you would come oftener to us and you
would understand our position better-at least mine.
I appreciate, I hope, at its full value, the feeling
which keeps you from the office, and participate
in it to a greater degree than you imagine. I have
found it for my comfort to change the furniture
of the office so that it might not appear so lonely
without your dear venerated Father. I felt for
him the warmest and most enduring friendship.
I esteemed him for his thousand virtues and loved
him for his social intercourse. No one,
I
am sure,
out of his immediate family, felt more keenly
his loss than myself. To his family the same feel-
ing extends, and I hope the relations of amity
which have heretofore existed may continue. In
regard to the affairs of 'The Home,' I am equally
anxious with you that everything should be
straightened out immediately, &c. &c.
TO JULIA.
“New - York, 6/17, 1852.
« Your letters are indeed welcome. If I am ever
so tired and warm, they cool and refresh me. You
are very good to be content so far away.
“No, we have not moved. I looked into the
future and my imaginings were of warm fires, coal

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Deatb of Isaac T. bopper
and ashes-the Liverpool coal, which I am so
averse to because of the dust it makes. The result
was an introduction of heated air, by means of
pipes. It warms the basement, parlours—includ-
ing third room-our room, library and bathing
room, besides the halls.
In every room, we have
ventilators. I do think we ought to be very con-
tented, when we come to enjoy so many comforts.
They will avail us nothing if we do not help each
other to be happy, for it is not these things that
will purchase happiness, though I own they are
helps. It is the folks that make the home. I feel
that since dear grandfather left us. He was like
sunlight in the house.
“Grandmother was here yesterday. She read
your letters and said many pleasant things, though
she was really very lonely. Write to her, dear
children.
“I hope the strawberries will arrive in good con-
dition, and will prove a pleasure to you—as giving
is with you a pleasure equal to the joy of re-
ceiving. I know it is not necessary to remind you
on that point. My love to your room-mates and
tell them to guard you from all harm.
TO JULIA.
" New-York, 1117, 1853.
“.. I have been thinking about you this
cold weather and hope you succeed in keeping
Be sure and have a care for each other,
and if you get your feet wet in walking out, I pray
you change your stockings.
warm.

166
[1852-
Abby bopper Gibbons
Please remember to tell exactly when your
vacation begins. I wish to know that I may so plan
my work as to give my time to you during the
school recess; for I wish to enjoy your company.
We will have a grand good time together. You
are my choice treasures and I look forward with
great delight to the time when we may sit down
under our own vine and fig tree, no more to be
separated. I expect you to interest yourselves in
the art, trade and mystery of household affairs.
It is my wish that you should be skilful in all
matters pertaining to housewifery, for it is a nec-
essary accomplishment. Otherwise, you will im-
pose upon those in your employ, and then follows
a terrible outcry about poor help. I have seen so
many inexperienced heads of families, that it has
never seemed a miracle that untaught help should
be sufferers therefrom.
"I have been singularly led to speak thus ; so
let it be as 'bread cast upon the waters.' It may
profit, after the lapse of many years.
“My letters are very shabby, but I have seized
the moments while Dr. Sewall is engrossing Father
and Willie with a recital of horrible operations-
the removal of tumours, cutting off legs, arms, &c.
Well, it is in the line of the Doctor's business.
Let every man enjoy his hobby!
"Blessings innumerable rest upon those who are
kind and thoughtful of you, my loved ones. Such
is the constant prayer
of
your
Mother.
“Tell Addy to send me some love."
.

1853]
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Death of Isaac T. hopper
TO SALLY.
'New York, 3/7, 1853.
“This is a charming day and reminds me that the
birds will soon sing, the grass grow, and with them
will come my precious human flowers-the pet
plants of our family garden. I am dwelling with
delight upon the moment of your arrival, when we
shall sit together in the dear little room we call the
Library. It is the loveliest retreat, and we enjoy
the home comfort so much, that I really begin to
fear I am growing desperately selfish. When I fix
myself there, I wish I had not to go to 'The Home'
or the Prison, or any such places.
"But I desire to keep far away a feeling to shrink
from such duties. We must all remember dear
grandfather-how he shared his loaf with every
one of God's poor who happened in his way. He
never wanted luxuries or superfluities of any kind.
Occasionally, he bought a few oranges to share
with his grandchildren, and that was the most.
His three meals a day were all he coveted and he
had a pleasant, cheerful greeting for all. It was
sunlight in his presence, on the darkest day. Re-
member this, and profit by his beautiful example.
We never mourn for him, because he finished his
work, and it was meet that he should rest.
“I was delighted to hear that a little child had
crossed thy path, and can appreciate the feeling of
pleasure it inspired. I am happier with a little
child about the house. Dear little Ri has been
like a bird all winter-singing, running and laugh-

168
(1852–
Abby hopper Gibbons
ing-never for a moment, homesick or unhappy-
blessings on her, and on dear Lucy too, who so oc-
cupies her time that one can scarcely speak with-
out intruding. She is very popular in the Square
and the consequence is that the Bell tinkles quite
as often as is agreeable.”
TO SALLY.
“ New-York, 6 mo. 20th, 1853.
“I feel as if I had neglected thee, but thou
knowest how I am situated—not much time to call
my own.
I set about making some cherry pies on
7th day. I had one oven full when Mrs. Captain
Offley called. She was succeeded by others, and
if Mary Brown had not happened in, I should have
been in a dilemma. She, good soul, finished the
pies, and saw to the baking. They were very
nice, so father said, and he knows what good pies
are.
Mr. and Mrs. Lyman brought a carriage to the
door at half past six and invited me to step in. We
went out to the High Bridge and round about it-
it was a lovely ride. We returned at half past ten
-bright moonlight. There was but one drawback
-dear Lucy was not invited, and, of course, did
not go ; and mothers do not care so much for a
pleasure of that kind when they do not have their
children with them. There was an empty seat in
the carriage, and I so wished she was occupying it.
She was content.

1853]
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Death of isaac T. Hopper
TO SALLY.
New-York, 6 mo. 29th, 1853.
“I was going to tell you lots, but Aunt Rachel
has just come to pass the day, and, as she is your
aristocratic Aunty, I must be devoted to her. She
thought it a miracle that she found me at home.
Thomas Fisher is staying with us a little while. I
had to sit by him in school when I was a little girl,
as a punishment-in after life, it became a great
pleasure. He is very odd, but he knows a great
deal, and you always learn something when he is
by. He always gave your mother the credit of
being a much brighter woman than she is—there-
fore, we have quite good times. Father enjoys it
amazingly, for he is scientific, literary, poetical,
practical, and quite in harmony with dear father's
views of matters and things.
“Why do you think I judge any girl ? I judge
only you—and have a regard for all your friends,
trusting to a wise selection. Be friendly and lov-
ing with all-especially those who may be consid-
ered unpopular—any other course is selfish, and
not to be tolerated—kindness will do everything,
and remember that all are not alike fortunate.
You know not the sorrows of their childhood, or
what it is that has caused their little irregularities
of temper or feeling. Be just to all, and if things
go a little wrong sometimes, the day will arrive
when all comes right.”

170
(1852-
Abby bopper Gibbons
TO JULIA.
1853.
“I could wish (if it seemed best) that we might
not be separated. I have enquired within, and the
result of my honest convictions shall be here marked
out. That it will profit my beloved daughter Julia
to remain one year more with dear Mrs. Sedgwick
and her household. Dear Father would come to a
different conclusion, if he could conscientiously,
because we desire to gather together our treasures,
and enjoy life at home. But we must make sacri-
fices, and while we have the opportunity, must se-
cure the greatest good. Therefore, if thou sayst
it, I believe the question may be considered settled,
that thou shouldst remain another year with Mrs.
Sedgwick. I shall be very glad to know if she will
take Lucy in Sally's place, as it will help me to
make up my mind about her going. I could not
let her go to Lenox on any other condition, for
various reasons. Father says little about it, but
will come to terms if it seem right and best.
“In deciding about your home at Lenox, I look
to more than your school education; you know I
have for several years, loved and venerated the
character of dear Miss Sedgwick. I like to sit and
look upon her, for there is something so good and
true and charming in her serene, placid counte-
nance, and graceful manner, that (as thy great-
grandmother said), it is a taste of Heaven.'
"And now, other members of the family are
holding my affections, and I feel that it is good to
place my children in the midst of such surround-

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Deatb of Isaac T. Hopper
ings, at my own personal sacrifice. Then will fol-
low the Home education, fitting for maturer years,
I hope I shall live to teach you many things taught
me by my mother. She was a beautiful woman of
rare gifts. I am indebted to her for my home
education, which I consider not the least of a young
lady's accomplishments. Experience will prove to
you the necessity of all this, and only when you
are called to act your part in domestic life, can you
appreciate such advantages. Do not look upon
these duties as disagreeable--they may be made
delights. Call them not cares or perplexities, but
pleasing duties, to be regarded by every considerate
young lady, be she rich or poor
We have
almost decided to send Lucy, for we cannot find a
school which suits us. If she goes to Miss Haines,
she would have such a walk through all sorts of
weather, as would expose her too much. I was
depending upon omnibuses, but I find it cannot
be. One year at Lenox would do her great good,
and if my dear Julia will be her Guardian Angel,
I shall feel better to have her thus. I will wait,
however, and hear what Julia says.
“Farewell my dear child, -may every year be
happier than the last, is the desire of thy
"loving mother."
TO JULIA.
“ New-York, 9/24, 1853.
“My darling Julia, never was a mother more
constantly employed than has been thine, the last
month. I am striving hard to have our home in

172
(1852–
Abby bopper Gibbons
order for your coming, an event towards which I
look with sweet delight. Bring with you Adèle,
Addy, Sophy, and whom you wish and our song
shall be, “Won't it be joyful.' I long for 7th day,
that I may fold you in my arms, my precious chil-
dren. Give my best love to the girls, and tell them
we await their arrival with a good deal of impa-
tience. I hope they know how welcome they will
be and what nice times we mean to have.
66
You are reading, I suppose, the Biography. I
have just finished it and am satisfied for the most
part. It seems to bring dear grandfather very
near, though he has not seemed far away since he
left us, for something is always occurring to bring
him back to us.
Yesterday, an old woman called, who had lived
far away in the country. He had sent her to a
place and had given the direction on a scrap of
paper, which she had kept with as much care as
ladies do their diamond pins. She held it up cry-
ing bitterly, and said he was all the friend I had !
Heaven be his resting place !' and, for a long
time she talked, and only of him, and all he had
done for her.
“Four weeks more will bring us all together-a
joyful day.”
TO MARIA HOPPER-HER “DEAR ADOPTED."
“ New-York, 9/17, 1853.
“ The other day, Uncle James brought me a
package, tied up so nicely, I thought, 'what can it

1853]
173
Death of ſsaac T. hopper
be?' I took off one paper after another, until I
came to a nice little morocco case, with a little
hook at the side. I opened it, when who should
look me right in the face, but my dear little Ria ?
I was so pleased I ran round the house to show it,
and all said it is Maria !' Kate laughed out,
which proved that she was more than commonly
delighted; for when we look into her quiet face, a
smile only is expected.
“We all love little Maria, and always think of
her very pleasantly. She gave us great joy through
the long winter months ; her sunny face would be
a right welcome sight to us again ; and if I dared,
I would ask that she might come. Understand,
there is always a place here for the dear child."
TO SALLY.
“ New-York, 9/19, 1853.
“Thy birthday, my dear, my darling Sally !
Eighteen years this day, since I first looked upon
that little silken head, round as a dumpling. As I
looked upon thee, my measure of happiness was
complete, and we gave thee thy dear grandmother's
name-my own mother-and such a mother as she
was, all can tell who knew her. She had never a
child so beautiful-her lovely complexion, wavy
hair, soft blue eyes, and musical voice. I see her
now, rosy-cheeked and charming as she was; and
grandfather was pleased to the life, to have thee
bear her loved name. And thou wilt deserve it,
for thou wilt ever be our dutiful child, our eldest
daughter, a comfort and stay.

174
[1852-
Abby bopper Gibbons
“And that word 'stay' brings other considera-
tions; thou shalt stay with us long, and yield to our
earnest desire to store thy mind with good things.
We have planned, and do thou harmonize with any
arrangements we think proper to make, for all is
for thy happiness.
“I am anticipating great satisfaction in having
thee with us this winter. We shall be very happy
together, and while we have decided to send Julia
one more year to Lenox, I own it to be a most un-
common trial. My spirit droops often when I
think that all the live-long year, we must dwell
apart."
MISS SEDGWICK TO MRS. GIBBONS.
cence.
Lenox, Sept. 29th, 1853.
“I tell you what it is, you must not heap kind-
nesses upon me. They come like sunshine and
moonlight and the starry heavens-like dew, and
rain, and the ever-returning Spring and Summer
and Autumn—there is no Winter in your benefi-
At what point shall I begin to thank you?
For the precious record of your father's life? The
world certainly owes Mrs. Child much gratitude
for having so faithfully preserved the annals of his
life. It is hard to criticise what she has done with
such filial love and reverence, and while her noble
mind has been pestered, trammelled and clouded
by petty cares, and hard work ; and yet I cannot
but regret that she has not put more of her skill
into the book-made it more of a biography and
less of a compilation—but perhaps, as it is, it is

1853]
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Death of [saac T. bopper
more level to the mass of readers, and we should
remember that 'the greatest happiness to the
greatest number' was the rule of your father's
life. My poor audience at the Jail has been
greatly touched by some of the anecdotes-so that,
even now, he continues, with his benign influence,
to visit the prisoner !
“The peaches came just in time. Just as I was
wondering how I could get some Morris-Whites
from the city. Ah, there is no Divining rod equal
to Love-and love, I am sure it is, dear friend,
that makes you ever so mindful of the absent. I
hope you do not imagine that when you send your
girls a basket of choice fruit, it is for their private
benefit and behoof-Oh no! they are but chan-
nels, conduits. But you know the adage— chips
of the old block '—and here are two blocks to hew
the chips from, father and mother. So the poor
girls have the smallest chance in the world of get-
ting, or rather retaining, their fair share."

CHAPTER XII.
1854-1855.
WILLIAM GIBBONS.
I
N March, 1854, William Gibbons entered the
Cambridge Law School, where he devoted
himself to study with the energy which marked
all his undertakings. After some months of faithful
work, he felt the need of a more thorough educa-
tion to enable him to pursue the study of law with
advantage, and resolved to take a regular college
He accordingly decided, with his parents'
consent, to enter the Sophomore Class of Harvard
College, in the autumn of the year 1855. This
he accomplished under the tutorship of the Rev.
Theodore Tebbets, and, in September, began his
College life-that life which was to be so full of
brilliant promise, but so brief.
course.
WILLIE'S FIRST LETTER FROM CAMBRIDGE.
“ Cambridge, Mar. 2nd, 1854.
"My dear father.
“Mother left me this morning, so I am fairly
embarked in Cambridge life, with the rudder in
my own hand. I suppose I do not now realize the
responsibilities attaching to me, but the time is not
176

1854-55]
177
William Gibbons
far distant, I imagine, when I shall begin to feel
the burden which thee and mother have so long
carried, and part of which now rests on me.
“I have a very pleasant, cheerful room, well-
lighted, and more than comfortable. If a few pic-
tures were hanging on the wall, in addition to the
two medallions which now have place there (one
of Grandfather and one of Mother), and if the
room were more generously supplied with furni-
ture, it would really be luxurious. Perhaps it is
well that tapestry carpets, damask curtains, and
plush furniture, are not here ; if the body were so
comfortable, it might become indolent.
"We were obliged to buy the carpet and furni-
ture, being advised that although it involved con-
siderable outlay at first, it would be much more
economical eventually. Travelling expenses, fur-
nishing the room, etc., though all extravagance
was avoided, have required more than we antici-
pated.
“We should have written before, but did not
seem able to, as every moment has been taken up;
but, as the people who occupied the room were
about moving, their conveniences for writing were
not handy, and mine were buried in my trunk, it
was out of our power to do as we desired to do. I
called upon the Professors this morning, about my
studies; they were very cordial and pleasant, and
seemed to take a real interest, as I believe they do
in all those under their charge.
" Professor Parsons has a party to-night, to which
I have an invitation. Mr. Langdell told me I must
12

178
(1854-
Abby bopper Gibbons
66
go, as it was not only pleasant, but advantageous
to be on social terms with the Professors.
Mr. Langdell, to whom Mr. Howland gave me
a letter, is an intimate friend of Mr. Carter and
Mr. Thayer, and has been very kind. I am much
pleased with him, and I think he likes me for their
sakes.
Mother and I have been disap-
pointed in not hearing from thee and Sally, but I
am hoping to get a letter to-day.
“My address is simply
“William Gibbons,
"Divinity Hall."
TO WILLIE, FROM HIS FATHER.
" New York, Mar.9, 1854.
Thayer and Carter will dine with us
this evening. Thayer was much pleased with thy
reception and excellent fortune, at Cambridge. It
was certainly very lucky. I hope thee may be for-
tunate enough to secure Langdell's entire respect ;
but there's only one way to do it, I know, from the
character of the man; and that is, by a conscien-
tious devotion to duty. The acquaintance and
confidence of one such person, is worth that of
fifty common men.
“Emerson gave us a fine lecture on Webster.
He made him stand before us in the proportions of
a giant ; and then with one word crushed him to
powder. Never was such a human wreck before.
He who might have been the greatest man of
his day, died one of the meanest because of his

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treachery to moral justice. The heart must be an
equal partner with the head, or any man's life will
fail. Webster is buried and will remain buried ;
though we may see him still in some former por-
tions of his career.
Advice. Don't admit too many correspond-
ents, to steal away time.”
TO WILLIE, FROM HIS MOTHER.
son,
“ New York, 3rd mo. 13, 1854.
“The question arises, to whom shall I write?
Witness answereth, to my only and well-beloved
Thou canst remember poor Pat and Jane :
the latter said to me, within an hour of her death,
'Dear Mrs. Gibbons, will you care for my chil-
dren ? I love them all alike, though Mary Jane is
a little nearer my heart.' All those words were
true, as I can tell by living experience. “I love all
my children alike,' though Willie is a little nearer
my heart'; for his path, (as dear Grandfather
used to say of his sick bed), has been strewed
with roses,' and, as he grows older, he must expect
to meet with briers and thorns. Sisters are not
thus exposed ; they can pursue the even tenor of
their way,' with such surroundings as will guard
them. Thou art hedged about with life's bless-
ings; for I cannot forget the guardian angels hov-
ering near, when I think of Dr. Estes Howe and
his lovely family ; dear, kind, considerate, noble,
generous, ever-to-be-remembered Anne Pomeroy ;
fascinating Fanny Ames, and a host of the good
and true.

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66
Dear Will, appreciate these advantages. How
the Good Father has remembered thee through all
thy young life!
When I came home, I found a pile of letters
to be answered ; some, in haste. And then, I
left Lenox with a heartache, for poor, dear Lucy
was suffering terribly with a felon (as it proved)
on the forefinger of her right hand. Mrs. Sedg-
wick tells me by letter, that she had it opened and
submitted manfully to the operation.
“Yesterday Mrs. John P. Hale came up after
dinner, and the day being lovely, we set off to
walk. On going up the Eighth Avenue, I remem-
bered a young married couple, the wife in a con-
sumption and very poor. So, with Mrs. Hale's
consent, we journeyed towards their humble home.
They occupy one little room, half the size of thy
bedroom ; and, for furniture, have a straw bed,
two chairs, a wee bit of a stove, and just enough
food to keep them from starving. All Winter long,
the husband has had rheumatism and a serious
malady (from which he will never recover), utter
shiftlessness. She, pale and suffering, has worked
the Winter long at making men's shirts, for eigh-
teen pence each ; until now she is quite disabled
and confined wholly to her bed. She has more than
common intelligence and views the dispensation
with joyousness, saying, “it is not sad to think I am
going to a better home.' She spoke of it so cheer-
fully and looked so at peace within, that it was a
lesson I shall remember.
And so it has been all the time, never a mur-
66

18551
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William Gibbons
mur escaping her, but sweet contentment within
those lonely and desolate walls. This morning I
sent her some of our best black tea, white sugar,
homemade bread, best butter and a few other things.
I have visited her often and have been instructed
by hearing her tell of the kindness of the neigh-
bors. One would come in to wash her clothes,
another to iron them, and her room always looks
neat.
“Will, thou must profit by this experience. Make
thy wants few and enable us thereby to help dear
Grandfather's poor. When I read thy list of wants,
I was somewhat horrified, and found myself sigh-
ing to think there was no end to imaginary needs.
How could thee ask for the old settee that thy
father rests upon, and that is endeared to us by a
thousand memories? It has been stage-coach, rail-
road car, baggage-wagon, everything, to our dear
children now in Heaven. We could sooner part
with any piece of furniture of modern date. And
the desk, that has furnished our rooms ever since
we were lovers! Time will teach thee what thou
canst not now know.
Willie, think not of what thou wouldst like to
have, but only of such things as are necessary to
thy comfort. If Mr. Lachlin can get thee a lounge
for a trifle, save out of thy means enough to secure
it. I will send thee such articles as we can spare,
and will remember the ornamental as well as
the useful I discovered that students at Cam-
bridge were subject to many weaknesses; and,
from all I could gather, were not forgetful of them-

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selves. But is that any reason why a grandson of
Isaac T. Hopper should prove of like character ?
Remember how he was forever dividing his loaf,
and how very few were his wants beyond his actual
necessities. Will, I pray thee, avoid all extrava-
gance. What is more out of place than a boy of
twenty, stretching out his great body in a lounging
chair? I think of thee day and night, mournfully
sometimes; and wish thou wast a little boy again ;
not that thou hast given us anxiety, but because
cares will multiply with years.
“About moving from Divinity Hall, I scarcely
know what to say. If thou shouldst go, I shall
lose sight of thee, while I am now paying thee
many visits. I can see thee in bed, at thy table, in
various attitudes—and then thy carpet, I hope, will
not be cut up and wasted. I think the matting
would answer thee a good purpose. Consider well
and do as thy best friends advise.
“I have written in great haste and at random,
but, I hope, understandingly. Farewell and write
soon.
Ever thy loving
“Mother.”
TO WILLIE, FROM HIS FATHER.
“New York, Mar. 18, 1854.
"It is very gratifying to hear of all the facilities
which thee enjoys, and of thy growing interest
therein. Somewhere in ‘My Novel,' is the recom-
mendation to a student, to have no leisure time;
and to say to temptations of all sorts,' go by ; I have
no time to talk with you ; no room for you.' This

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William Gibbons
It was
does n't mean, don't take recreation of body and
mind ; but it means, 'Get thee behind me, Satan !'
It is not 'Satan' to go to the Museum once in a
while ; but it would be, to do so twice in a while.
I don't fear for thee in company with Langdell.
"... Thee is too careless; I mean as to
penmanship. Cæsar A. Rodney, one of our best
old Revolutionary patriots, and the most eminent
lawyer in the State, was once called upon by the
Judge in a certain case, to read his own writing;
and he was obliged to say he could not.
told as funny and was laughed at, but it was, at
the same time, ridiculous.
In arguing a
matter, speak naturally, and without personalizing
a speech-i.e, make no gestures or tones with the
person. Let the mind govern both. A man is to be
pitied who sticks out his person before his argu-
ment. I don't say that thee needs this advice, but
it won't hurt. If a man have a soul, if his soul
speak, all appropriate action will come without his
knowing it. Study always, conciseness; perhaps
simplicity means everything,
That 's enough of the solid ; now for pie !
Everything here is Anti-Nebraska.
black mark will encircle the names of all political
felons. Thayer is writing ably for Freedom in the
Post. I don't care what the lawyers say, Freedom
is above law and above Constitutions. Even Web-
ster could not put it under them. But he, because
he tried to do so, is now forgotten. His friends
had better be quick with his monuments or his
name will be rubbed out of memory.
66

184
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Abby hopper Gibbons
TO JULIA.
“ New-York, 3rd mo. 20, 1854.
“If it were not for my great hope, I should grow
discouraged when I do not hear from you. I am
trusting that all is right and must bear up under
the disappointment, and hope on.
“Four weeks from Fourth day will soon be here,
and what a crowing there will be! Never fear,
we will be on the track in good season ; but, being
as you are women grown, I guess we will let you
come in care of the Conductor, just to prove what
can be done when there is no Willie to let go.
We get such nice letters from him that father and
all of us are very happy. Thee knows father has
a way of not hearing when he is spoken to. Well,
we find, to get his ear, it is only necessary to men-
tion Willie's name.
“Tell Ellen Emerson I had a few pleasant words
with her father. Julia, dear child, take up thy pen
and write me a nice letter. The crocuses are all in
bloom and the vines are making quite a respecta-
ble appearance. I always welcome the flowers.
What a real pleasure they are! We have a lovely
greenhouse right opposite, where they allow us to
regale ourselves even when we do not want to buy.
It is an instance of the rich helping the poor in
the right way. The gentleman who owns the prop-
erty, lets his gardener have it free of charge.

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William Gibbons
TO WILLIE.
me.
“New-York, 3rd mo, 25, 1854.
“ It is against my will that I have delayed writ-
ing to my dear and only son, but the truth is
the days are much too short to accomplish the
half I lay out to do. Last Third day evening I
went with Father to Mr. Bigelow's in 22nd St. ;
passed the evening right merrily and returned at
10 o'clock.
Know, dear Will, from thy
babyhood, thou hast always been a delight to
I have always spoken the truth in its plain-
ness to thee, and whatever rests upon me to ex-
press, I must not shrink from. Thou hast been
remarked as having a naturalness and simplicity of
manner that has tended much to give thee a char-
acter; and thou hast, the past year, been so in the
habit of exaggerating in charades, plays, etc., that
I am concerned to caution thee to beware; and
also, not to allow thy fondness for argument, to
give thee an arbitrary manner, which is sometimes
misunderstood, and conveys the idea of impor-
tance. Dear me! do not disappoint me, for I have
set my heart upon thy being a model for the race
of young men that succeed thee. A quiet, firm,
gentlemanly manner is so winning ; while an im-
petuous, arrogant, boast-y sort of way, is anything
but pleasant.
“I wish I had seen Langdell; if he is thy true
friend, he will tell thee of any little or great failing,
in the freedom. Tell him to speak to thee if there
is aught in thy way. I do not instruct, but only

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Abby bopper Gibbons
fear that I shall be missed at thy side in the way
of noticing these little things, which magnify in
youth, but in more sober years, are quite tolerable.
It seems an age since thou left. We pine for thee
sometimes, but do not forget that thou art gaining.
"Farewell, my dear and darling boy, and believe
me ever,
“Thy loving and devoted
“Mother.
“Tell me how each First day is passed. Do not
acquire a habit of going on that day; and do not
go too much to Boston. Beware of varioloid and
girls."
TO WILLIE.
con-
“New-York, 5th mo. 6, 1854.
“My dear Willie.
There is one matter resting upon my
mind, that I must be relieved from ; therefore, I
ask of L- and S- if they use tobacco in any
form. If they do, it is not my business to do
more than remonstrate, so far as they are
cerned ; but I beg of thee, my dear son, to allow
no one-not thy dearest friend-to smoke in thy
I do not wish thee to inhale the poison
weed. I speak in all plainness, and say that they
have rights in their own rooms, and I trust my
son will have the manliness to act independently
in the matter. You may have your good times on
gingerbread and cold water.
“ If we could give you men the beginning of an
room.

1855)
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William Gibbons
idea of the drudgery to which women are obliged
to give themselves up, you would know why it is
that we are not fit companions for you ; who may
well be called 'the stronger sex,' for everything
tends to make you so.
"In all my wanderings through the world of
care '--my world—which lies chiefly among poor,
oppressed women and children-I find great mis-
ery growing out of the low estimate in which wo-
man is held. She marries ; her husband thinks
she was made to get his dinner and patch his
shirts; she passes her days and nights in 'work,
work, work '; and he comes fretting home to the
fireside, after smoking and drinking; with no
words of sympathy, no appreciation of the ills
which encompass her, and really believing that he,
alone, has aught to complain of.
And now, one little matter that may prove a
trial : but it is wise to bring one's mind to one's
circumstances. I have had it to do innumerable
times, and therefore I think I know how. We
have decided to put a bill on our house. With
all our energies, we have tried to sell in 30th St.,
and cannot. One or other house must be sold ; so,
with bills on both, we shall sell one. It seemed a
great trial, at first, but as I begin to see the wisdom
of it, the 30th St. house grows in beauty and con-
venience, and we can make a very lovely home
of it ; for, after all, the people make the home. It
is a sunny house and I will make it look charming.
“Good-night, my dear son ; be sure always of
the love of thy Mother.”
66

188
(1854-
Abby bopper Gibbons
MISS BEECHER TO MRS. GIBBONS.
66
Hartford, June 22, '54.
"Dear Mrs. Gibbons,
. . I fear I have never properly expressed
to you the great pleasure I enjoyed in reading your
father's Memoirs. I took them as a book to read
aloud to a family of young nephews and nieces, and
was delighted to see what useful impressions were
made. It may be that he will do more after death,
even in this world, than in all his long and useful
life.
“What a privilege to have such a parent, and
what do not you and I owe for such parentage !
“Very truly and ever your friend,
Catherine E. Beecher."
TO JULIA.
It was
a
Cambridge, 6 mo., 24, 1854.
Thy seventeenth birthday was spent by me in
travelling from New-York to Boston.
day of rest and quiet, for the hurry and bustle of
Railroad travel never disturbs the inward peace
which always seems to reign, when I am in omni-
bus or car. It is a sort of retirement to me, for I
can easily forget that I am not the sole occupant
of my own carriage, and while journeying to and
fro, my friends, and especially my dear children,
are the objects of my tender solicitude and affec-
tion.
Thou, my dear child, entered largely into my
considerations. I wished for thee a life of happi-

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William Gibbons
ness, and although I am aware that trials and trib-
ulations await us, I am just as certain that a large
share of rich enjoyment will be our portion. When
thou returnest to thy dear home, we will consult
together and will lay out such plans as will secure
to us a harvest of contentment. It was a delight
to me, during vacation, to observe so much interest
as seemed to exist between thee and Sally ; and it
made me very happy to look into the future and to
find you reading to each other, and a comfort (as
you ever have been) to your father and mother.
“And while we look forward to Autumn, as a
time to gather you in, it is not without regret that
dear Lucy is not to be more bountifully supplied
from Mrs. Sedgwick's exhaustless storehouse of
knowledge. I cannot help wishing that she may
so enter into the spirit of the plan, as to claim a
longer stay. But it seems ordered that we dwell
together hereafter, except dear Willie, who is call-
ing for more continually.
Instead of two years' absence, I now anticipate
five or six ; and I think only of doing the best we
can for him, and forgetting all personal feeling in
the matter. I desire that his natural gifts and
graces be turned to the best account ; and to this
end, Cambridge life seems admirably adapted."
FROM MISS SEDGWICK.
“ Lenox, 5 Nov., '54.
“My dear Mrs. Gibbons,-i feel as if I must say
a word of love to you each day morning and

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Abby bopper Gibbons
evening, and noonday, I feel the cold, chilling
blank
your
children have left here. I look around
upon the new, strange faces, and they seem to me
usurpers—as if they had taken the place of my
children. I had not got quite resigned to Sally's
loss in a year's weaning ; but now to look up and
see a Miss T. or Miss C. (Heaven help the names !)
in place of our dear, frank Julia—a rock of trust-
and a poor, forlorn Miss B. where sat sweet Lucy
with her bright, calm face, that always made me
feel as if she could pick the thorns out of life, -
why, dear friend, it makes me feel almost as you
did when you had your meteorological observa-
tions on hand, and I am in peril of thinking if
not uttering the unquakerlike anathema,
thee !' You must write to me and tell me what
the girls are about, and I can bear to hear how
happy you are with them, and that they are re-
warding you for all the sacrifices and efforts you
have made for them-as I trust they will do-or
they have no right, in Heaven's high Chancery, to
the name they bear.
“Tell me all about your Winter plans, and how
the 'Home' gets on. I was quite distressed to
hear of the trouble Mr. Gibbons has had in his
Bank, for I felt sure it would be a terrible annoy-
ance to him. What is to be done about the preva-
lence of fraud in our country? There is bad
education at the bottom of it—a radical want of
religious and moral principle-of truth in the in-
ward parts."

1855)
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William Gibbons
ABBY TO HER SISTER SARAH.
" New-York, 12 mo., 1854.
“A letter from our dear brother, Josiah, states
that he has been very sick, and was too weak to
write much, but was better when the steamer left.
Ephraim, his good friend and attendant on the
way out, says he expects to bring him the next trip,
which will be about a month from this time. A
time of trial is at hand, no doubt, and we must
nerve ourselves to bear all. I shall have a fire in
the front room next to ours, where the sun shines,
and where he can see Spring's first flowers in the
opposite garden, and his days shall be as bright as
our home influences can make then. The chil-
dren love him dearly and will make him as happy
as they can.
“Dear Si! Life is worth very little to him now,
and I think even in this cold climate, with warm
hearts, he will live longer than surrounded as he is
with men who are almost strangers. If we only
get him safely home! That is my anxiety, and I
long for the joyful day,-if it comes to us.
Sister Rachel walks without her crutches and
is greatly encouraged. Julia clings to her and has
gone to pass the holidays with her."
66
ABBY TO HER SISTER SARAH.
“New-York, 12 mo., 1854.
When I think of my own dear Willie,
when I read his lovely letters which tell me always of
his good head and heart,- I think, sure never mother

192
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had such a son. He is the idol of my life, because
he is love, flowers, poetry, music, sober prose, and
sunshine to my soul-God's gift for every good act
of my life. Theodore Parker says he is going to
make a great man. If he remains just as he is I
am content.
"And my daughters would be his equals, but
alas for woman ! Every day I see how I must
submit to hear them talk and do as other Mothers'
daughters are obliged to, while my husband and
son have greatly the advantage ; for their inter-
course with the intelligent world gives them oppor-
tunities to see, hear, and learn, which our everyday
life does not and cannot afford us.
“Witness this day! While my husband is enjoy-
ing a book or a pen, I am basking in fat and
doughnuts; and every day brings such mortal care ;
for in our city, the poor are starving, and every
tale must be heard, and every scrap turned to the
best account. I never felt so much like saving
every penny. Not a Christmas gift has been seen
in this house and no wish looked or expressed for
anything of the kind. Julia said one day, 'Mother,
would n't it be nice to have no Christmas gifts this
year, but spend a little for the Randall's Island
children?' I was delighted, and she, with Sally,
have been diligent with the work ; while Lucy is
devoted to her lessons. Every cent, however, was
given me for Randall's Island, and I think my
friends were never so ready. I have had fifty dol-
lars sent me for the 'Home,' by different persons,
this week past.”

1855]
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William Gibbons
TO WILLIE.
66
" New York, 3/8, 55.
One week yesterday since thou left us, my own
dear Willie, and no loving words from thy mother
for thy promptness in telling us of thy safe arrival
in Cambridge.
“The world seemed lonely after thou left and I
began to feel the time at home did not satisfy me.
Then I remembered how our home had become
the retreat of beggars, and I decided that another
five hundred dollars would not come again soon to
help them and I took comfort. Next time it may
be so arranged that we can sit down together and
have a good time. We had many interruptions,
and dear Uncle Si's death was to me a heavy afflic-
tion from which I could not easily recover.
I re-
ceived another letter from Mr. Dennis, in which he
tells me his last words, and only words of regret,
were, 'Oh dear, if I could only see my dear sister !
He was to me a truly loving and devoted brother.”
TO WILLIE.
“ New-York, 4th mo. 25, 1855.
“Thou art singularly in my heart, my dearest,
and although I dropt a line yesterday, it is with me
to accept Mrs. Emerson's kind offer to be the
bearer of despatches. I send too, the very knife
thee gave Uncle Si, and an extinguisher he used
There is a great deal that is
very sad in looking over the past in reference to
for years.
13

194
[1854-
Abby 'bopper Gibbons
him, and I am sure, if there is a Kingdom of Heav-
en, he is resting. He was tossed and tired, loving
his kindred to distraction, and always giving to the
utmost-never remembering to reserve a comfort
for himself-surely, he was the most unselfish of
all men ! He has encountered the tumultuous
waves of life, and, I trust, has safely landed where
the sunbeams sparkle about him and the olive
branches protect and shelter him.
“It is not well that thee, my dear Will, should re-
main in thy room during the time fixed for the last
sad offices to our darling ones. Thou canst walk
abroad through the fields, breathing the air of
Heaven, and, at the same time, neglect no propriety
which the occasion calls for.
“I was delighted with thy letter full of love and
tenderness. It was to me the pure gold of the
heart's love, and, as such, imperishable.
“Ever thy devoted
“Mother."
TO WILLIE.
“New-York, 4th mo., 1855.
“Ever dear Will,
"In passing through Chatham Street the other
day, the words, 'Yes, we miss thee at home,' so
held me, that I was compelled to place them in my
pocket for my own son. When my eye lit upon
them, thou wast in my thoughts. So here they are,
telling thee a truth.
“Next week will be the last of Addy Drury's
sojourn in New-York. She has been a good girl

1855]
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William Gibbons
ness.
and has contributed largely to the children's happi-
I shall send by her a package and am sorry
to be obliged to make up thy loss of handkerchiefs
if the lost were with borders and the gift of dear
Uncle Si.
How is it that thy washerwoman lost them? If
they were stolen, pray put her on her guard to be
wary in future. They were of more value, for a
twofold reason, than any I can supply.
66
THE SAME.
“ New-York, 5th mo. 12, 1855.
"My ever dear Will,
“I have only time to say, this busy Anniversary
week,-look after thy heart and do not lose it down
East; do not let any ruffian throw thee over the
Long Bridge ; do not grow conservative; take care
of thy eyes ; go to bed early ; wash thy lungs out
in the morning, with fresh, balmy air ; inhale the
fragrance of May's sweet flowers, and love us all
always.
“With the pure gold of warmest affection, and a
soiled banknote, ever,
“ Thy devoted, adoring Mother."
“No lovelorn lassie will love thee with all her
love, as I do, my pride and blessing, my own and
only son. May we both live always !”
TO WILLIE, FROM HIS FATHER.
“New-York, May 17, 1855.
We have had the best Anniversary
Week in Anti-Slavery history. Sumner was the

196
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Abby bopper Gibbons
star. It needs only a judicious course by the true
friends of freedom, to confirm our Northern pub-
lic sentiment finally in its favor. One of the most
unfortunate misfortunes of the Anti-Slavery agita-
tion has always been, the ascription of too much
influence to persons, and too little to events. It
will be a high wisdom to make the most of these
latter ; though I do not detract from the just merit
of the former. The Kansas outrage, on top of the
repeal of the Missouri Compromise, is the chestnut
burr under the horse's saddle, and our Northern horse
kicks and rears tremendously, and will pitch his
rider inevitably.
"The Metropolitan Theatre presented a grand
sight on the Sumner evening. The public mind
is unmistakably impressed, when such men step
upon the platform, and have no meal in their
mouths, but ‘say it boldly,' as old Blake has it.
Sumner is in the common eye of the North. He
appears to know what our dough politicians never
could understand, that Honesty commends Truth.
An honest, outspoken devil is worthy of respect,
and is more respected, than a polite Christian com-
promiser.
“We had a Thayer dinner last evening. He is
going out to Nicaragua with Filibuster Kinney, to
start a'commercial colony,' and is entirely per-
suaded that this is the object and total aim of the
expedition. I think, however, he is mistaken.
There is, at least, a reservation as to what shall be
done when they get there. Powder and ball, no
women and children, swords and Saxonism, a rich

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William Gibbons
country with no government, and a weak, scattered
population-and anyone can guess the rest.
Kin-
ney is now detained by government legal process.
I suspect the concern to be devilish and piratical,
and that they will introduce slavery into their
Colony, if they succeed in establishing one."
TO WILLIE.
“ New-York, June 9th, 1855.
May I begin my letter this day with ever duti-
ful and darling Will? For, didst thou look upon
me just now, I am sure, thou wouldst find an ex-
pression of care-almost careworn—and why? thou
wilt ask. It is that the Fourth of July is near, and
I well remember the long, wearisome day and
night, when the perils by sea and by land were
presented. *
One mother can tell of a
weight removed, when the glad tidings sounded in
her ear that all was safe, so far as the body was
concerned—but, while there was no ripple of the
waves, so calm was the sea, it was not so with the
mind. Disquietude, and some discontent, were
apparent ; and, upon the whole, I believe the affair
was too sensual to secure pleasure. There was
too much thought as to what should be eaten, and
a sort of determination to lay in a large store.
“Bear in mind; this over doing disqualifies the
most healthy person from enjoyment. I do not
address this letter exactly to thee, because thou art
moderate in thy desires for the good things of this
* A cruise in a yacht is referred to.

198
(1854-
Abby bopper Gibbons
life; or rather-sparing in the indulgence. Now
Will, dear Will, a mother's counsel pray regard.
I will not say more, because thou knowest my
anxieties, and I do not know thy intentions. My
inward revealings bid me caution thee. Do not
be overcome by deluded men or boys. Thy pic-
ture is before me, with a look that promises all I
desire. It is a treasured type of my pride and
blessing. It has thy best expression, and I shall
keep it ever, for it is true to life.
“I sent to Mrs. Osgood,* a letter from Miss
Bremer. I hope she received it. I am glad thee
wrote to -; it was so gratifying to him, and I
sympathise with his condition—that, in the midst of
friends, he must always feel lonely. Poor fellow !
'He has no mother to bring him milk,
No wife to grind his corn.'
I hope we shall make him forget the inconveniences
that beset him, and that life's blessings will attend
him...
“When thee comes home in the Winter, I am
thinking that we shall stop at Wilmington for a
day, and run off to Washington for more than a
day. It will depend upon circumstances, when
the far off time comes."
TO JAMES.
(
Cambridge, 6/28, 1855.
“Thy welcome letter arrived as I was about to
enter Gore Hall, where I could not help thinking
* Mrs. Frances S. Osgood.

1855]
199
William Gibbons
how my Father would pass day after day with per-
fect delight. Would n't he enjoy looking over those
old books and find very many with which he was
familiar! One could pass weeks within those walls
and never tire. I find it difficult to reconcile my-
self to the leisure and tranquillity which prevail
throughout the place. Just the home for Will for
the coming four years. He is held in. To use one
of Father's expressions, he is combed down.' Every-
thing is a delight to him, and study the main con-
sideration.
Wherever I go he is praised. Patrick, who
takes charge of his room, says : 'He is the tidiest
boy in the Hall-he keeps everything in its place.'
I asked him if he said that to all the mothers.
'Oh no, Madam,' said he, it is easy to see how a
young gentleman is trained. Your boy has a good
trainin'!'
So says his washerwoman-that his clothes
come neatly folded, as if they were just out of the
drawer,' I do not despise testimony from such a
quarter. It weighs. Nobody can put me out of
conceit of this pattern of a boy. I trust his grace
and dignity may increase with his years, and that
he may never lose the breadth and depth of his
great head and heart. Motherly that, but honest.
“After a visit to Gore Hall, we went to Mrs. Gan-
nett's, passing the remainder of the day. Tell the
Doctor, Jenny played and sang with great emotion,
Days of absence.' Nothing could exceed the
pathos when she came to the lines ' He I love is far
away. I saw her at Dr. Walker's First Day morn-
66

200
[1854-
Abby hopper Gibbons
ing, in her new silk ; she looked very fascinating.
She is hav'g a right good time, not unmindful of
those who cannot share in her pleasure.
“Willie, Sallie and self all went to hear Dr.
Walker, and were delighted. Morning and after-
noon found us listening to him with great delight;
Willie, with profound admiration.
“I wish thee was here to enjoy all these pleasant
things. Our visit would then be complete. Willie
talks of that coming time, which I hope is not far
off.
TO WILLIE.
· New-York, 7th mo. 3, 1855.
“Dear Will, thou art in my very dreams. A few
nights since, I thought I was sent for on account
of thy sickness, and when I awakened to a sense
of my mistake, I was thankful enough. Weeks
were never so long as now, and I long to have
them pass, for the relief of thy mind. I have no
fears for thy success, for I am certain thou wilt
bear an examination, and creditably, too.*
“I have much to tell thee, when we can talk
together, and I have made such arrangements as
will warrant my being more at home. Industrial
Schools are to be vacated, during August, and I
have visited the other Institutions ; giving notice
that I shall lie by, during the excessively warm
weather; and have so instructed others as to ren-
der frequent visits unnecessary.
* This examination was for entrance to the Sophomore
Class of Harvard College.

18551
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William Gibbons
“This is the day that brings to us glad tidings
of thy health, and, I hope, for a quiet condition of
thy mind. Thou art so ambitious, dear Willie.
What can be done to hold thee in? Thou hast
not the 'don't care' that has helped me through
the world.”
WILLIAM LLOYD GARRISON TO MRS. GIBBONS.
66
“ Boston, July 20, 1855.
“My dear Mrs. Gibbons,
In answer to your kind and truly characteristic
letter, inviting my dear wife and myself to make
your beautiful home our own during our contem-
plated visit to New-York, I beg leave to return you
our most grateful acknowledgments, and to say
that we will endeavor to give you a portion of our
time—say from Thursday afternoon to Saturday
morning of Anniversary Week-as the first part
of the week we must pass with our niece at Brook-
lyn, and be as much as we can with our beloved
George W. Benson and wife. There is no place
abroad where I feel more at home than under your
own roof, and none whose friendship I prize more
than yours and James's—to whom remember us in
much love, and to your dear children.
“Your oft-indebted friend,
“William Lloyd Garrison.”
TO WILLIE.
(6
6
10/19, 1855.
I am a good deal opposed to that Ed-
itorship. It seems to me, and was first suggested

202
[1854-
Abby bopper Gibbons
by Langdell, that it will draw off thy attention
from more important duties. It is well enough to
write for the paper [a college publication], but I
should resign thy present position. Humility is a
virtue. A Quaker preacher would say 'keep low.'
Human nature is the same the world over. Do not
let anybody spoil thee, or I am a ruined woman.
"I will write about going to Boston next week.
I wish it much.
“Thy loving Mother.”
TO HER BROTHER EDWARD HOPPER.
“ New-York, rith mo. 9, 1855.
“Thy letter has just arrived, and I write for the
relief of all concerned. I was tried in spirit about
Georgie's prolonged stay, on sister Anna's account.
I know well she has a horror of giving people
trouble. Well, Aunt Lucretia gave you his mind
when she was here with Uncle Mott. Then, when
Aunt Rachel went, I told him I was afraid his
mother's feelings would be hurt, and I thought it
would be better to go and get his winter clothes
made--that if we should have snow it would be
very bad. He began to cry, and with pitiful look
and tone said his visit was not out. He was sorry
to disappoint his mother, but would be glad to
stay a little longer. I consulted James, who said
the child's feelings must be regarded, and he
would see how he felt in the morning. Well,
morning brought freshness and determination to
hold on to first and settled conclusions.

1855)
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William Gibbons
66
Now to his clothes! I keeps night-gowns, I
do, to dress little childers in, when I can persuade
them, or rather, when they feels a drawin' to stay
o' nights—and I has fingers, I has, and little bits
o' cotton, and I takes and sews 'em together, and
if they gits cold, I puts 'em on, and I keeps their
little bodies warm, I does indeed. He has plenty
of hose for his little footses, and shoeses that have
never trod the ground ; and he takes runs, and he
takes food, and he is never cold.
He does not wear (nor has he yet) his warm
winter night-gowns, because I perceive he has a
warm natur', from heart out; and, in all respects,
he is doing well.
"J— goes to school at forty dollars a quarter.
The teacher is a brother to Mrs. W. H. Furness.
I visit in his family, and he is just the person to
draw a team—so - began this day. He im-
proves steadily. I took him first to oblige his
parents—I now conclude to keep him, deciding to
reform those in high life,' for a change.
“The children plead for the cousin, and say:
'Beg Aunt Anna to let him stay a little while
longer.' His clothes are good enough. What's
the matter with them? He wears jacket and
trowsers every day, and his little best trowsers,
blouse, and belt, Sundays. A king was never bet-
ter satisfied.
"Ever your affectionate sister,
"A.
“ Listen ! George Hopper is never any trouble,
but a pleasure to all.”

204
(1854-55
Abby bopper Gibbons
TO WILLIE.
“ New-York, 11/12, 1855.
Ever dear Will,
“ I seem to neglect thee of late, but never inten-
tionally. So incessant are the cares for this world's
helpless ones, that no time is left for the pleasant
varieties of life. Last evening we were invited to
join a family party at Frank Howland's, and had
a very nice time. They live very happily, cosily,
and sensibly. Everything for convenience and
nothing for show. I own to a strong attachment
to a Quaker way of getting along, and the extrava-
gance of the present day disgusts me. I grow to
like a small house, as it is far better and more
tastefully kept, with small means.
We shall be glad to see any of thy friends dur-
ing the coming week, and sincerely wish thou wast
of the number coming. I scarcely know what to
say about going to Boston. It will involve ex-
pense and my stay must necessarily be short. I
must pass Christmas at Randall's Island, as I can-
not disappoint 300 sick children who depend upon
my baskets of dolls and toys. I went up last week
to make them a visit, and their smiles and words
of welcome overpower me.
“How is it with thee? If there is a strong wish
on thy part I can struggle through many difficul.
ties, otherwise I am held by strong cords."
66

CHAPTER XIII.
1855-1857.
WILLIE'S DEATH.
The
HE perfect freedom and confidence which
existed between William and his mother
breathes through all the letters of this period.
Although she loved her son with entire devotion
she was wise as well as tender, and never shrank
from advice or criticism when either was necessary.
But the strong and beautiful relation was soon to
be rudely broken.
Through this year of absence, the mother's mind
often dwelt upon one particular danger ; she seemed
to have a foreboding in regard to the Long Bridge,
which Willie crossed so constantly in his visits
to Boston. In her letters, she sometimes warns
him to “be careful” in crossing this bridge ;
and when the news of his death fell upon her
like a thunderbolt from a clear sky, the thought
flashed into her stricken mind that some accident
had happened to him there.
On Saturday, the 15th of December, William
spent the evening at the house of an intimate family
friend in Boston. The bridge was undergoing re-
pairs, and on his way out to Cambridge he stumbled
over a timber which had been left out of place,
205

206
[1855-
Abby bopper Gibbons
without lantern or other sign, to give warning of
danger. He felt no immediate inconvenience, and
alluded to the fall laughingly the next day, going
both to prayers and Chapel.
After dinner, while talking to a friend in his
room, he suddenly complained of a sharp pain,
giddiness, and nausea. He, however, did not sus-
pect anything serious, and yielded reluctantly to
the persuasions of his friends and chum, to stay
away from Chapel. At about ten o'clock on Mon-
day morning, the sickness returned, and Dr. Wy-
man was summoned. It was proposed to send a
telegram to his Mother, but he refused his assent,
because he knew it would alarm and distress her.
The physician thought he would rally. In the
afternoon, when he was evidently weaker, the mes-
sage was sent without his knowledge. On hearing
of this he expressed regret, and said : “Doctor,
you must not let me die ; it would kill my mother !”
These were his last conscious words, and he
passed away so quietly, that it was only when the
Doctor returned at half-past seven, and exclaimed,
Why, the young man is dead !” that his friends
knew he was gone, although they were watching by
his bedside.
It proved that a blood-vessel in the stomach had
broken when he fell.
A telegram received by his family, at eight
o'clock in the evening, stated that "Willie was not
very well and wanted to see his mother." This was
followed by another message announcing that life
had fled.
Thus, suddenly vanished from earth that bright
66

1857]
207
Willie's Deatb
and promising young spirit, who, in his short life,
had endeared himself to so many of the wise and
good, and whose future seemed so full of all that
was noble and sweet.
When his parents went to Cambridge, after the
funeral in New York, they found his College-room *
undisturbed ; on his study-table was an unfinished
letter to his mother, on which her broken medallion
lay as a paper-weight.
THE PRESIDENT OF THE COLLEGE TO MR. GIBBONS.
66
“ Cambridge, December 18th, 1855.
“My dear Sir :
"We are all so overwhelmed by this great and
sudden affliction, that I can find no language in
which to address the father and mother of the de-
parted one, except to commit them to the sole and
all-sufficient Comforter.
“In a few days I shall write to you again. Mean-
while, allow me to commend to you three of his
classmates, Anderson, Brick, and Learoyd, who
desire to accompany the remains to New York,
that they may inform you of all the particulars of
your son's illness, and testify to the love and respect
felt for him by all who knew him, and the pro-
found impression his sincere and beautiful char-
acter has made.
"I pray you to accept my most sincere condo-
lence, and believe me to be
“Your friend and servant
"James Walker."
* Willie had moved to 30 Stoughton.

208
[1855-
Elbby bopper Gibbons
FROM REV. F. D. HUNTINGTON.
Cambridge, December 18th, 1855.
"I can hardly let this opportunity pass, without
adding a few words to the many expressions of
sympathy and sorrow that will be borne to you by
William's classmates. Would to God we could say
something equal to our own feelings, or be able to
yield you that consolation which you so deeply, so
dreadfully need! But that comfort comes only
from one source,-an Eternal and Infinite Source,
—'the Comforter' promised by Him who is the
Resurrection and the Life. Next after the great
faith that the Heavenly Father doeth all things well,
your solace will be found, I am sure, in the life and
the character of yr. son.
It would cheer yr. heart,
sad as I know it is, to hear the cordial testimonies
to his worth that rise up on every side among his
acquaintances, and to feel the warmth of admiring
love that comes from all lips at the mention of his
name. Our usual light-hearted and animated com-
munity is overshadowed with a strange solemnity
of grief to-day ; but thro' this air of darkness and
tears there shines the bright and blessed memory
of his virtues, his affections, his honest and faithful
heart : just as looking this moment from my
win-
dow I see a sky overcast with wintry clouds, but a
broad belt of pure, clear light just under the sun.
But why should I speak to a mother of the excel-
aces of her son ? As if any tributes of
could add to yr. confidence in his principles or yr.
appreciation of his merits. I remember that 'the

1857]
209
Willie's Deatb
heart knoweth its own bitterness, and the stranger
intermeddleth not with its grief.'
“Yesterday at this hour, three o'c., I was sitting
by yr. son's bedside. He was feeling weak and
faint, but was quiet, and I think without positive
pain. For fear of taxing his voice, I asked him few
questions, but he spoke to me intelligently, and
carefully, and kindly—thanking me when I pro-
posed to him to be removed to my house.
"My friend Mr. Tebbets, his teacher last year,
bears the strongest witness to his fidelity, and is
ardently attached to him.”
The following letter was sent by the President of
the Class meeting, in communicating the resolu-
tions :
Cambridge, December 19th, 1855.
“ To James S. Gibbons, Esq.
“Dear Sir:
It has become my duty to communicate to you
and your family the resolutions passed by the
Sophomore Class of Harvard College, at a meeting
called in consequence of the death of your lamented
son.
“We have great pleasure in thinking it may, in
some measure, alleviate your grief, to know how
much he was esteemed and loved by his college
associates. The cold and formal style of resolu-
tions is inexpressive at best, and seems an in-
trusion when it comes in upon the heart-rending
sorrow of the bereaved circle. But, although no
human sympathy can console you, I cannot refrain
14

210
(1855-
Abby bopper Gibbons
from saying, in behalf of the class, that we mean
more than the mere form of language expresses.
We shall cherish his memory as that of one who
was rapidly rising to the highest college honors,
and who was already beloved by all who knew him.”
Here follow the resolutions.
FROM A CLASSMATE TO A FRIEND.
“Willie was the soul, the life of our club. His
energy and decision of character were equal to any
undertaking. His generosity and amiability were
without parallel. All that each one of us hopes
for, is a character as pure and noble as his. Of
his friendship, I was proud, and in after years, I
shall recall him as one of the noblest men that ever
lived.
I always admired him but never
realized how essential he was to all our little
projects. None of us have his indomitable will, a
will which was always on the right side."
From hearing his grandfather Hopper relate
anecdotes of the escape of fugitive slaves, he early
imbibed a cordial hatred of Slavery and of all
kinds of oppression, which was only confirmed by
the convictions of his riper years. Once, at an
Anti-Slavery meeting, being deeply moved by an
appeal for funds to help along the case, he re-
quested his father to give for him seven dollars-
the total amount of his little saving; and he never
afterwards alluded to the fact.
He was in the habit of visiting, with his grand-

1857]
2II
Willie's Death
father or his mother, the cells of the Tombs and
other places where were confined the victims of sin
and misery, and in this way his sympathy for the
poor and suffering was developed. In one of his
letters addressed to a sister who was away at school,
he says:
66
“N. Y., Nov. 18th, 1851.-Thee says you have
no holidays. I can tell thee that in comparison with
the lot of hundreds and thousands in this and all
other cities, your days are all holidays. They have
to get up before it is light, and go to work and do
not stop till dark or bedtime. They not only have
no holidays, but no enjoyments."
In writing to a sister about his mother, he said :
She is a good mother, is n't she? and a kind
mother, and a true mother? Nobody else ever had
such a mother, as thee and I and Sally and Jule
have, had they? They may think differently, but
they're mistaken. If they 'd had our mother for
their mother, they would know that it is so."
He went to the Harvard Law School in March
'54, where he remained a year, finally taking the ad-
vice of Dr. Walker (then President of the College)
and other friends, to "fit for college,” which he
did, often studying eleven hours a day. He took
as tutor, the Rev. Theodore Tebbets.
To his mother, Nov. 26th,—“I am very much
obliged for thy pains and trouble in the making of
my wrapper, and am sure that it will fit and please.
If it were to chafe under my arms, reach no farther
than my elbows, cover only my back, I think I
should enjoy wearing it, be proud of its appearance

212
[1855-
Abby hopper Gibbons
-
66
and knock even down if he did not go into
ecstasies over it.”
Aware of his mother's anxiety, he chalked "glass,
with care ” on the back of his overcoat, when tak-
ing a railroad journey, saying, “ It was no lie, for
being short of cash, it would have been easy to
break me." While in college he taught a "ragged
school” composed of " dull men and bright boys,
filthy and clean, whole and ragged,”-every kind
of untaught humanity, taking them to his room and
drawing out their life histories.
The following extract is taken from a letter
written to Mrs. Gibbons by a classmate of William's
and dated January 16th, 1859, more than three
years after his death :
To-day is the anniversary of the birthday of
my dear friend Willie, and I feel an irresistible de-
sire to write to tell you that his memory is still as
fresh and green in my mind as it was three years
ago, and so it will be to the day of my death. ...
I believe that I fully appreciated the blessing
and the good which I was enjoying in having him
as a constant friend and companion ; for my affec-
tion grew for him daily, and my admiration for
his noble qualities constantly increased, and I felt
that, day by day, he was imparting to me some-
thing of his own strength and goodness. What
pleasant months of friendship were those few, in
which we daily met to study those same lessons,
and took our frequent walks, and talked of every-
thing! I can hear his voice now, chatting pleas-
antly upon various subjects, but especially as he
used to speak of you all so fondly."

1857]
213
Willie's Death
FROM HENRY W. FOOTE.*
Cambridge, December 22d, 1855.
“My first shock at the news of Gibbons' death has
of course passed away; but it is succeeded by a more
realizing sense of the extent of the calamity which
has befallen those most nearly connected with him.
At a class meeting, we passed a resolution
to wear crape on our left arm for thirty days. In
this
case,
it was no mere form, as would have been
evident to anyone, who could have seen the interior
of that room.
It was very touching to behold the
tearful faces, while not a word was uttered except
the necessary motions, which were made in a voice
scarcely above a whisper.
“I never knew a person who possessed to such a
degree as Gibbons the faculty of inspiring respect
as well as love. His willingness to take a step,
which to many would seem degrading, in coming
from the Law School to the Undergraduate De-
partment, was a proof of his iron will ; while he
gathered round him, in the short time he was with
them, a group of friends, in whose hearts he has
left a void which can never be filled from among
our classmates.
“ His love for his mother was intense, and I be-
lieve he would have done anything for her. Such
a great loving heart I never saw. When I first be-
came acquainted with him, I saw him do something
which fascinated me, and though it does not sound
much in the telling, yet the way in which it was done,
I shall never forget. I was walking with him one
* Afterwards Rector of King's Chapel.

214
(1855-
Elbby bopper Gibbons
evening, and we met two ragged, barefooted little
girls. He stopped, and putting some coppers into
their hands said: 'There—now say thank you, sir,'
and before they could begin to express their thanks
for the wealth which seemed showered down upon
them he dragged me off, looking so happy, that I
loved him with all
my
heart.
“He was always doing just such things, as I
know from anecdotes of the same sort which we
love constantly to repeat to one another.
“He seemed untouched by any of the influences
around him, and could not himself have been
better, though he must have made others so, if he
had lived longer.”
FROM WILLIAM LLOYD GARRISON.
66
Boston, December 22d, 1855.
66
As sickness in my own household and pressing
local engagements, deeply to my regret, prevent
my being with you to-morrow, at the funeral ser-
vices of as noble a youth as ever blessed parental
love, I cannot forbear giving utterance to my feel-
ings in a hurried letter, worthless as all language
seems in such a trying exigency.
There is no sorrow without its recompense-no
bereavement without its solace. Those very quali-
ties in William which serve to make his sudden
departure most grievous to be borne, must, at the

18571
215
Willie's Death
same time, make his memory precious, and gently
extract from your lacerated hearts the arrows which
now pierce them to the core. You will find ultimate
and complete consolation, in reflecting upon his
filial affection, his brotherly love, his genial tem-
perament, his generous disposition, his noble
promise.
'Heaven sustain and solace you in this sad
trial-hour, is the prayer of
“Your afflicted and sympathizing friend,
“Wm. Lloyd Garrison."
FROM PROFESSOR PARSONS TO C. C. LANGDELL.
66
Cambridge, December 24th, 1855.
“I could scarcely forbear writing you immedi-
ately upon the death of Gibbons. I do not know
his parents, but I wanted to express to them, what
you may do now, if you will, my own profound
sympathy and that of many others in Cambridge.
He was a remarkable man. I think he has left
no one in Cambridge, more attractive, more winning,
or more promising. The remarkable thing about
him, as it seemed to me, was the very high standard
he had set for himself. .. That of Gibbons
indicated power of mind, moral worth, and force
of character, all in an eminent degree.
“But he has gone. I know what it is to lose a
beloved child, and therefore, I know what only
experience could have taught me-how the blow

216
[1855-
Abby bopper Gibbons
strikes through heart and bone and marrow. But
I know too, that, even in the midst of it, there is
some support—and that time is sure to bring relief
and assuagement.
“I have no doubt they believe he still lives
but I wish it were possible for them to believe as I
do, that he has awaked, just what he was when he
slept-to finish his education there, and grow into
the maturity of manhood, and to exert all his
strength in the activities of a higher usefulness and
a higher happiness than any here. I do not say
that I believe the other world as much as I do this
--for often I believe it more—for this seems so
shadowy, transient and incomprehensible, that I
turn with constant relief to the substance and cer-
tainty of the other.
FROM LYDIA MARIA CHILD.
Father of mercies ! soothe and strengthen the
hearts that lie bleeding under this dreadful blow !
How I feel the poverty of language, or of thought,
to comfort the agonizing loneliness of souls under
such a bereavement! There is nothing, absolutely
nothing to be said, in the first moments of a grief
like this. It is better to stand in silent, reverent
sympathy, and wait for time to bring healing on
its wings.
“ May our Heavenly Father sustain and
strengthen your hearts, till faith becomes experi-
ence! David unites with me in truest sympathy
for your affliction,"

1857]
217
Willie's Deatb
FROM MRS. GEO. L. SCHUYLER TO MRS. GIBBONS.
“Dobbs Ferry, December 26th, 1855.
“I have been with you during these last days.
The name, and age, and some similar circumstances,
have brought back an affliction which fell years
ago upon our family, and has left its shadow, since.
It is a blessing to know that they are not lost to
us-never leave us—through the long years that
pass between our present life and theirs. But we
are left behind with our discipline—to work on
and on.
“I know where to find you, whose life has been
such a work of blessing. May the blessing return
in submission and in trust that all is best."
to you,
FROM REV. CHARLES L. BRACE TO MRS. GIBBONS.
Boston, December 29th, 1855.
I am visiting in Cambridge, and I hear
the most beautiful accounts of your son's influence
over his classmates.
“Dr. Walker's sermon produced a profound im-
pression. All testify that in honor and true man-
liness, he was an example to the college, and that
his presence restrained from what was mean and
sensual. His abilities are highly praised by cool
judges. He is with God. And we are with him
too. Let us rationally think that all which is pure
and manly and self-sacrificing in us, will still be a
pleasure to him ! But most of all, the solemn
duties of life are still before us. May these losses

218
[1855-
Abby bopper Gibbons
strip away our selfishness and ennoble us for the
eternal life!
FROM JOSEPH H. CHOATE, ESQ., TO A FRIEND.
My acquaintance with him was brief, but, from
the first, I conceived a love for him which has ever
since grown stronger. He came to the Law School
in 1854, and entered upon the prescribed studies
with all that zeal which marked every movement
of his life. He was diligent and devoted, and in
spite of his great want, at that time, of mental dis-
cipline, he would have accomplished wonders had
he remained in the course to the end...
FROM W. E. CHANDLER, ESQ., AFTERWARDS
U. S. SENATOR.
' April 24th, 1857.
“Gibbons was, I think, one of the most affec-
tionate and pure-minded persons I ever knew. He
seemed to be, and I believe he was, wholly free
from guile. He loved everybody. I never knew
a person to whom he would not give everything
he had ; and I never knew a person who was not
equally devoted to him.”
FROM THEODORE TEBBETS, HIS TUTOR.
“He had become very popular, winning admira-
tion by the astonishing versatility and quickness
of his mind, and his comprehensive and thorough
scholarship ; while he commanded general love

1857]
219
Willie's Death
by his generosity, frankness, simplicity, his affec-
tionate and genial manners, his high principles,
and his spotless character. In all my observation
of young men, I have never seen one who com-
bined so many of the intellectual and moral quali-
ties which insure a brilliant and noble career, as
William Gibbons."
99
FROM HON. JOHN P. HALE.
66
We knew and loved him like a son and a
brother, and I am sure I could have heard of no
death out of the circle of my immediate family,
which would have caused me more poignant pain.
His death is one of those mysterious and inscruta-
ble events which defy our reason, mock at all
human philosophy, and almost stagger the strong-
est religious faith.
For myself, I can say
with truth, that I never knew a young man of
whom I had higher hopes, nor one whose course I
watched with such affectionate interest.”
FROM REV. THEODORE PARKER.
“ Last night of the year 1855.
“My dear Mrs. Gibbons.
“I cannot let the clock strike twelve to-night
without writing you the words which have so long
been in my heart, longing to be uttered. You
don't know how much I rejoiced in your noble son
—for he made a deep mark on us all here, and we
looked forward prophetically to future greatness

220
(1855-
Abby hopper Gibbons
and noble service for man, befitting alike his na-
ture and his family. But it is otherwise ordered.
How easy to write, to advise : how hard to say,
Father, Thy will be done!'
“«'T is the most difficult of tasks to keep
Heights that the soul is competent to gain.'
“But as sailors who suffer shipwreck only reach
another harbor, not the one marked in their chart,
but the invisible, so your beautiful minded son
graduates to higher than all college honors, pro-
ceeding not Bachelor of Arts, but at once Master
of Immortal Life. If it be our so tender loss that
he is advanced thus suddenly, it is his gain of ever-
lasting honors. We must weep and long lament
when such an expectation of earthly harvest is laid
on the ground; but the fact that he was so much
to lose is the great secret of consolation in such a
case. The world seems how much poorer after such
well-beloved promise is taken away ; but Heaven
seems so much nearer when such an object of the
affections bends down the tall branches of the
Tree of Life.
“Alas, me! the most I can say to you is, how
much I rejoiced in your joy of such a son, and
now how much I sympathize in the human lam-
entation that he has gone. God wished him a
'Happy New Year,' and has taken him home to it.
We would not bring him back.
“With tenderest regards, believe me,
"Sympathizingly yours,
“ Theo. Parker."

1857]
221
Willie's Deatb
FROM MRS. SEDGWICK TO SALLY.
66
“I know how, by degrees, you are getting ac-
quainted with your great sorrow, which, at first,
seemed so strange to you. I know, too, how you are
gradually—and only gradually, thank God-coming
to the full comprehension of the height and depth
and length and breadth of your bereavement ;
for He has mercifully ordered it that our minds are
not large enough to admit, all at once, a full con-
sciousness of the tremendous change that comes to
survivors from the death of one whose life made
an essential part of their life, so that they them-
selves are thus subjected to a sort of living death.
But, although grief is a guest who draws bitter
tears and wrings the heart, is there not something
gentle and subduing in her presence—that softens
all asperities, that quickens our best sympathies,
and makes more tender our best affections—that
draws together and unites more closely than ever,
by the new and sacred bond of a common afflic-
tion, those with whom she makes an abiding-place?
And is she not a great revealer of much of high
and holy import that was before secret? You will
tell me that some months hence ; but meanwhile,
I doubt not, from what you already know of her,
you believe that she is sent of God.
“Dear Sally, may you all be of those who find
her a friend, because they make her one! It would
be most unfitting that any but the sweetest uses
should come from any 'adversity'suffered through
Willie. It was like your dear mother to do exactly

222
(1855-
Abby hopper Gibbons
as she did, in regard to his clothing and effects. I
did the same by Charley's furniture, but was more
selfish in regard to his clothes-parting with them
only gradually—because I associated them with
him so nearly, that I kept them to handle and
kiss.
FROM THEODORE D. WELD.
“Eaglewood, Perth Amboy,
“ January 10th, 1856.
Dear James and Abby,
The shock that stuns you, I feel it too-around
me swell the waves that whelm you—the life-cords
breaking in your hearts, quiver and throb in mine!
I loved him too !
“Oh, how the world's words of sympathy and
condolence thrust upon the heart's grief profane
its sacred silence !
The extract on the third page tells why I write.
My heart told me it would comfort yours.
66
[Extract.]
man.
“We have lost a classmate, William Gibbons, of
New-York. He was a grandson of the late Isaac
T. Hopper, and a worthy descendant of such a
He entered our class this year, and took
high rank as a scholar, soon winning his way to
the love and respect of all who knew him. His
loss will be more severely felt by his class than
that of almost any other man.'

1857)
223
Willie's Death
"A few weeks since, when with all my children
in Boston, I said : “We must stop on our way to
Mount Auburn, to see Willie Gibbons at Cam-
bridge;' we stopped, searched him out, and spent
a very pleasant quarter hour with him, when he
was called to recitation.
“With love and yearning,
“ Your brother ever,
Theodore Weld.”
66
TO WILLIAM EMERSON, JR.
“ New-York, 1/14, 1856.
My dear William Emerson,
“I am sure thou wilt take charge of a little
package which Alfred S. Hartwell will hand thee.
It will contain some few things which were over-
looked in the agony of collecting what remained
in the desolate apartment, once the abode of all
that was beautiful to me and mine—the light, life,
and promise of a once cheerful home. Loneli-
ness fills the house; so desolate that it seems to
me the sun cannot shine for us any more.
“I rejoice in thy fond mother's happiness of
this week (blessed to her), for it brings with it a
beloved son. To us, the deepest sorrow. When
we had anticipated a heavenly meeting, instead
thereof comes the terrible reality, that we shall no
more behold what was the joy and pride of all the
household.
"It is not time that will bring relief, for in such
a crushing sorrow memories are forever crowding

224
(1855-
Elbby bopper Gibbons
upon us. We must abide the grief, and believe
that 'the spirit will know a rest,' and that occu-
pation will help us to endure this terrible calam-
ity.
FROM THEODORE D. WELD.
66
“ Eaglewood, Perth Amboy, Jan. 23, '56.
“You say in your last 'we do not fully under-
stand whether you apprehend a like affliction or
not.'
“No! No! thank God. All our family are in
excellent health and have been for years past.
What I said in my line to you and Abby, I
cannot recall, but this I know and should have
uttered it,—that little as I have seen Willie for
years, I felt his death as a personal bereavement,
and wished to say to you that the sword which
transfixes both your hearts, pierces mine too.
"My reminiscences of his boyhood, when he
used to visit us at Belleville are singularly vivid
and delightful. With a single exception, he was
the only child I ever met, who seemed to have no
conscious self. The happiness of others seemed to
be his proper personal capital—the more they had,
the richer was he.
“But how much better you know this, and a
deal besides, than I can.
“I sometimes try to make your case mine, to
put my soul in your soul's stead, and, in thought,
to lay myself under the falling avalanche and feel
its crush, but it only thunders over me.

1857]
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Willie's Death
“Truly, the heart knoweth its own bitterness.
Yours, I can but blindly guess. My little fathom
line can only reach the shallows, but oh, what
depths your plummet is sounding now !
“God help you. Right well I know he does and
will !
“Your darling has not gone but come to you yet
May you not have lost his form to find
him ?
“Dear Edward Hopper too! How the deep
waters have gone over him and his !”
nearer.
FROM MRS. CAROLINE M. KIRKLAND TO MRS. GIBBONS.
“6 Lexington Avenue, Feb. 27, 1856.
“I have wished a good many times to write to
you, but felt my hand restrained ; and there was
equally a barrier when I thought of going to see
you. I suppose it was the feeling, founded upon
my own experience, of 'what can I say, what can I
do ?' What can be said, even by the warmest
friend, to one under the immediate visitation of a
grief like yours? Yet I suppose no one's heart has
bled for you more truly than mine. The very
thought of what I should suffer, in a similar case,
sealed my lips. Well do I know your anguish, but
I know, too, the blessed power of time and thought.
Well, I trust you have already begun to feel it. I
hear you have resumed your occupations and are
endeavoring to interest yourself in the affairs of
life and the means of benefiting others, as before,
and I rejoice at it. Doing good is a resource
against sorrow, worthy of your father's daughter."
15

226
[1855-
Abby hopper Gibbons
FROM MONCURE D. CONWAY TO MRS. GIBBONS.
“Washington City, March 3d, 1856.
After thinking it over many times I have con-
cluded to write to you a stranger's deepest sym-
pathies for the loss for a little while of your dear
Willy. I have doubted that my doing so might
only reopen a healing wound : but then I know
that such wounds do not heal soon, and that the
best comfort we can have in the loss of dear ones
is not in oblivion, but in knowing that whilst they
did live, they lived for something and were beloved.
“When your son came to Cambridge, I became
immediately acquainted with him by being seated
next him at Miss Upham's, and by the circum-
stance of his having entered my room in Divinity
Hall as I took another. But there were many
young men with whom I had such personal arrange-
ments, but to whom I was never drawn as to him.
His was a warm and ruddy heart, and a mind as-
piring to all that was noble and true. When I
remember how, when I had been alone at our table
in my hatred of Slavery and sympathy with the
absolute liberal faith, we on one day became aware
that, with the new face, the blood of a Hopper
was there with all its brave instincts; when I
remember how manly and honest he was, so that
all respected him; and how his enthusiasm and
energy gave us a hope equal to our demand upon
the boy, I am ready with you to exclaim, 'Oh
trusted broken prophecy.'
“But I would fain believe that it is not broken,

1857]
227
Willie's Deatb
but that the promise He gave, if broken to us, is
kept to the Universe. I find I cannot give up my
faith that no accident can occur ; that as yet we
see but a small arc of a great circle. May you
have a light clear enough for this and all !
“I have thought that this testimony from a
stranger to yourself, to that sweetness and excel-
lence in your son which won all hearts, which, as
the Good dies not, still lives, might not be unwel-
come.
“His face will ever be one of the pleasantest
associations of my life in Divinity College. Alas,
that after all, my letter should only amount to
another proof of what you have lost !
“May God bless you and yours !
"M. D. Conway."
FROM SARAH M. GRIMKÉ.
66
Eagleswood, March 18th, '56.
Dear, dear Abby,
“How shall I thank you for that long letter, for
all you told me of your precious Willie ? I thought
I knew him, so far as hearing of his brightness and
his varied excellencies. This single expression re-
specting him spoke volumes to my mind. It was
impossible to have impure thoughts, or to be guilty
of an impure action in the presence of Willie
Gibbons. Of an angelic being we could say no
more ; I accepted it as the highest testimony that
could be given of his worth.
“Yes, dear Abby, it is enough to be the mother

228
[1855-
Abby bopper Gibbons
of such a son.
Are
you
less his mother than when
he was on earth, less united to him, less conscious
of his being, of his virtues ? Is he less earnest
for truth, less useful, less allied to all that is noble,
pure and holy, less engaged in the work of eleva-
ting and blessing humanity ? Ah no, but, while
clothed with material forms, we need the bodily
presence, the sweet interchange of every-day affec-
tion,—the warm kiss—the tender embrace. Time
may soften such a sorrow as yours, may render the
agony less keen ; but nothing save reunion, that
cherished hope of all who mourn such bereave-
ments-can satisfy and fill the aching void. Our
dear, aged saint, who, I think, in a few days, will
be released, said: 'It feels delightful to me that I
have a family to welcome me in heaven.'
FROM MISS SEDGWICK TO MRS. GIBBONS.
66
“54 East 16th St.
“ ad April, '56.
I believe there are moments when our minds,
freed from their mortal obstructions, have percep-
tions which we call dreams. I say I believe this-
it does not quite amount to a belief, but is my
strong impression. Such a spiritual discerning I
had, a few nights since, when I seemed to be sit-
ting close to you with my arms in your lap. Willie
was sitting near and facing us. I had a feeling,
not very distinct, that he was from another sphere.
He looked perfectly himself, except that there was
a preternatural radiance from him. I said to you:

1857]
229
Willie's Deatb
how beautiful ! is n't he beautiful !' and I can
now see the mother's smile in your face, as you as-
sented by an inclination of your head.
“Dear Willie was talking earnestly to us.
When
I waked, I could only recall these words : When
I was a child, I took my mother's feeling and be-
lief, from conviction.'
Dear friend, your child is only severed from
your mortal senses. He lives, and lives near to
you, with a vitality that we cannot conceive of.”
TO SALLY.
“New York, 513, '56.
Dear daughter Sarah,
“Let me give thee the history of a week. A
note from Mrs. Kirkland, imploring me to help her
with the Report of 'The Home' during church
hours (Ist day morning), saying she would stay at
home on purpose, induced me to the service very
reluctantly. Third day, at 'The Home'; from
there to the 'Tombs' with Dr. and Mrs. Osgood,
committing poor, neglected children of intemperate
parents, to Dr. Russ' charge. (Juvenile Asylum.)
Yesterday, to visit five Councilmen. Obtained
their votes in favor of giving 'The Home' four
lots for building, and agreed to meet committee,
at City Hall, next Second day. I am now sure of
success, as I am sure the Mayor will sign the Bill.
To-day, with Mrs. Osgood to Avenue C. TO-
morrow I go to a meeting of the Industrial School.
In addition to what I have here stated, I have been

230
(1855-
Zibby bopper Gibbons
very busy at home, doing many things in all my
spare moments and seeing many people. But for
constant employment, what should we all do?”
FROM FREDRIKA BREMER TO MRS. GIBBONS.
66
'Stockholm, 20 May, 1856.
Many and many a time, dear Abbie, have I
thought of thee, and wished to be near thee, to
thank thee for thy kindness, thy gifts, and the good
portrait of thy father, which now adorns my room
and looks so like him, so strong and good humored,
such a hearty old man ; and then to weep with
thee over a loss that I could de
ly feel.
Then I
saw this youth and I loved him as a being of rare
value and was glad to have seen such a young man,
and I thought thee a happy mother indeed. And
so thou art, dear Abbie, though thy son has been
called among the Seraphs. Indeed, he seemed to
me to belong more to these than to the rude young
men of the earth. May God comfort thee and his
father for what you have lost in his lovely pres-
ence ! And I know He will. To workers such as
thee, grief cannot be a long or lasting feeling.
Thy work in the service of the Lord, to cheer and
uplift His suffering and the fallen children, takes
off the feeling of a heavy burden, and the sym-
pathy which thou bearest to the sorrows of others,
makes thy own cross more light to bear. I know
it a little, dear Abbie ; since I came home, I have
taken an active part in several social enterprises
for the help of the orphan, the sick, and the pris-

1857]
231
Willie's Deatb
oner; and though it has given me much to do in
many ways, it has kept my mind up and well
through many a trial and many a sad time since I
came home, and lately made my solitude rich with
thoughts and good feelings. And now, I feel
every day, more and more, that life is a pilgrimage
where we should not sit down and be happy in
the luxury of life, but strive on, and do our best
every day until the last-looking steadily forward
on Him who is the way and the truth and the
life, and taking every thing else as a thing second-
ary. But it is easy for me, solitary as I am now in
the world, to say and feel so.
In a little while, I am going for about a year
away to Switzerland ; there to work out a plan I
have nursed during 25 years. After this, I shall
come home, and, please God, work earnestly on
in my land, in the same way as thou dost in
America. Especially, I want to make the situa-
tion, or chances, of poor young girls, better than
they are. Think of me, dear Abbie, as one who
most gratefully and lovingly thinkest of thee, re-
joicing to know thee, and to be allowed to call
myself thy friend :
“Fredrika Bremer.
“To Mrs. Abbie Gibbons."
66
During Miss Bremer's stay in New York, she
sometimes made the Gibbons house her home. In
her excursions about the city, the son of the house
was her constant companion. On one of their
expeditions, she asked him to choose a silver fruit

232
(1855-
Abby bopper Gibbons
knife for one of her young friends. He did so,
being careful to select the best, and was surprised
to find it marked with his name when it came
home.
NOTE ACCOMPANYING KNIFE.
“N. Y. Ist Sept., 1851.
“Nothing for my young friend, Willie, but-a
blessing from his Swedish friend, and fervent wish
that he will be as a man, what he promises as a
youth, and then he will be as blessed as the good!
“Fredrika Bremer.”'
ABBY TO EDWARD AND ANNA HOPPER.
“ New-York, 6/13th, '56.
“I write now to introduce our dear Willie's
friend, Wm. Emerson. He is a lawyer, a son of
William Emerson and nephew to Ralph Waldo.
A perfect gentleman, and a genuine good fellow.
“Anybody's daughters are not only safe, but
profited by his presence.
“He has an instinctive sense of propriety. He
goes to Philadelphia to attend the Convention. Is
genuine Anti-Slavery in his tastes and tendencies.
Take him by the hand, and 'lead him in the way
he should go,' and if it be towards Aunt Lucretia,
let him proceed. He has a love for such society,
as he is intellectual and possessed of much native
refinement.
"If there are lions, let him approach them, but
take care that he is not devoured. He has a good

1857]
233
Willie's Deatb
mother, and she is extremely kind to our lonely
children. She has had them beneath the shade of
her o'erspreading vines, and in the sunlight of her
beautiful country home. They are happier and
better for it.
“I will say no more. Do as seemeth best and
oblige your loving sister,
“A.
“To thee my dear sister, I will say another
word, for thou canst understand how it is that the
sun does not shine, the flowers bloom (even the
Rose has lost its fragrance), and while I place in
front of dear Willie's lovely Bust, the most beauti-
ful of the season, nothing satisfies me. He has
gone forever from my sight. I can no more take
him to my side, and, in undertones, talk over all
that interested us together. His voice is no more
heard. There is nothing in all the earth that
received me as he did. I mean who received and
understood me. We listened to each other and
believed. He was father, mother, son, and brother.
He fulfilled every relation in life. He sympathized
with all my wandering ways.
He led me on, never
making light of aught I did or said.
“To lose all this and much more, leaves me
desolate enough. I can lead our dear children in
a way I see not, and can even mis-lead my husband,
for I would not have them know how the door
seems closed upon me, and the dark cloud hangs
over me.
“Dear little George ! We miss him in our
anticipations of pleasant visits. What joy he

234
[1855-
Abby bopper Gibbons
brought us, even at the eleventh hour! Dear
children gone, gone !
“Ever thy loving sister,
“A.”
The "little George” alluded to in this letter,
had, by his winning and manly ways, endeared him-
self to his New-York relatives, and was always
most welcome in their homes. In December of
1855, while he was visiting them, his cousin Willie
wrote from Cambridge, “Do not let Georgie go
back yet; tell him to wait for me." This affec-
tionate message gained a new significance, when
only three weeks after Willie's death, George fol-
lowed him. He died of croup shortly after his
return home to Philadelphia.
The sorrowing father writes, “6 mo. 13, '56,"
thanking Edward for books which he had taken
pains to have bound for him, and, after some words
of appreciation, says:
“There was but one drawback to me; and that
was, the absence of our dear Willie. How happy
should I have been, and how it would have de-
lighted him, to put them in his hands; I could
only assign them a place in his bookshelf, and
submit to carry the sad burden that lies like lead
on my heart. Nothing restores to me that old
appetite for life, of which we were so suddenly
deprived. I feel as if I had crossed the top of
the hill, but dare not yet go down, as I so much
want to, until I help others up. It is the hardest

1857]
235
Willie's Death
place to stand in, drawn both ways by the strong-
est bonds of nature.”
MRS. GIBBONS TO W. S. THAYER.
.
.
.
"New-York, July 2d, '56.
"I see by today's paper, that Mr. Sumner is not
so well. I have a real feeling about this matter,
and such a conviction that we could do him
good!
"I am convinced that he should be away from
active, political friends, even if they be dear
friends. They tire him.
I am subdued
beyond what is natural to me, and yet he shall
ever find me a cheerful attendant. Plead with
him. Tell him, I must be the mother to bring
him milk, the wife to grind his corn.'
“If he says so, no mortal shall know of his where-
abouts. He must not even think. He needs a
woman's hand to soothe him into sweetest sleep,
that he may wake up to speak again.
"What can I say more? Smuggle him on, where
he can find a heart's warmest welcome. There
are only my husband and three dear daughters,
who will never molest him, or make him afraid.
He is no stranger to us.
We know him and he
will know us.''
TO
HER SISTER SARAH.
“New-York, 12th, mo. 2d, '56.
“I cannot account for my inability to write to
those nearest me. While it was once easy and a

236
(1855-
Abby bopper Gibbons
now.
pleasure, it is now a duty delayed, and I have,
seemingly, nothing to say. I hear, too, brother
Edward has been sick. I wish he would come, with
his wife, to New York, for I think a change really
necessary for him. He might bring his wife and
children.
We cannot afford more changes
One so
soon succeeds another, that life
can never be the same to us. A few years have
made terrible inroads, and the last seems yet a
wild dream, too terrible for truth. I find it hard
to make life cheerful to the children, and yet I
hold it not only a duty, but also a necessity, if I
would keep them. Young as they are, it seems
too sad to see them so stricken. I long to have
thee make a stay with us for a time, when we can
so much better talk than write ; and then, the
many things we would say to each other, cannot
be written, for they arise uncalled for, and at no
stated time.
Perhaps the most impressive testimony to the
character William Gibbons had in Cambridge,
among wise and unimpassioned friends, is borne
by the following letter (from the Biography of Will-
iam Gibbons) from the President of the University.
It was written more than a year after William's
death, to accompany a beautiful copy of Milton's
L'Allegro and Il Penseroso, which was sent as the
Detur' he would have received had he com-
pleted the Sophomore year.
66

1857]
237
Willie's Death
FROM DR. WALKER TO MRS. GIBBONS.
Cambridge, Jan. 15, 1857.
“My dear friend,
“The College Faculty have just been engaged
in the annual distribution of Deturs among merito-
rious students. If your son had continued with
us, the best would have been given by common
consent to him. And as he still lives in the mem-
ory and affections of us all as freshly as ever, we
could not repress the desire to carry out this pur-
pose, and to ask you to accept the Detur in his
We hope you will not be unwilling to re-
tain this memorial, however slight in itself, of the
profound affection and regard with which his name
is cherished here.
“... I shall always hold most dear what-
ever reminds me of that beautiful life, and of that
death, the sorrows of which would have been in-
supportable if they had not been hushed and sub-
dued by infinite consolations.
name.
FROM REV. SAML, J. MAY TO MRS. GIBBONS.
66
Syracuse, Jan’y 20, '57.
He [Mr. May's son Joseph] says:
"You know, father, how much I respected and
loved William Gibbons,—one of the very best fel-
lows I ever knew, whom I wish I resembled more.'
The savor of William's name is still
sweet at Cambridge. Not only his classmates, and
Club-mates, and personal friends speak of him with

238
[1855-57]
Abby bopper Gibbons
deep affection, but all who knew anything of him
seem to have received the impression that he was
a remarkable young man-remarkable for his in-
tellectual ability,—but still more so for his moral
excellence."
ار
“I want,” Willie once wrote, "to underscore
every word I say.
“I shall not consider the world civilized until
there is a passenger telegraph, so that a fellow can
at least spend his First Days at home."
His mother's words as she bent over the coffin :
“The light of our home-gone out !”

CHAPTER XIV.
1857.
VISIT TO BOSTON.
TO JULIA.
66
T°
“ New York, 5/19, '57.
O thee I am inclined to address my letter;
first, because thou art the best correspond-
ent; and secondly, because it is in my
heart to ask thee to use the form of speech in which
thou wast educated, and to which I hope thou wilt
always adhere (especially when writing or speaking
to thy own family), even to the naming of the days.
" Thy letter was most welcome ; it told me of
days passed pleasantly, and that going from home
did not fail to have the effect desired. Come home
when all are ready, and be careful to preserve the
cheerfulness so manifest, and which is better kept,
when profitably employed. It is the wish of my
heart that thou and thy sisters may think seriously
what there is in this ever busy world to demand
your interest. When I think of your years, I am
led to believe it right for you to take hold of such
work as will enable you to benefit somebody be-
side those of our own family. Let the time not
be spent in heaping comforts upon those who were
239

240
[1857
Abby bopper Gibbons
66
never needy, but seek out, or rather, lend a hand,
to such as happen in your way, and thereby lighten
the labour of your mother, who must accomplish
what you fail to undertake.
“Remember the German School is my legacy to
thee, and if thou wilt begin early to sow the seed,
I may enjoy the harvest with thee.
On First day evening, Joe,-ever faithful Joe,*
stayed at home, and we were joined by Thayer,
John, Rosa,
and just before we sat down
to tea, Mr. Shattuck, one of dear Willie's first Cam-
bridge friends, came. He talked much of our
good friend Langdell, to whom I have a strong
attachment because of my admiration of his many
gifts ; and, more than all, because he was a de-
voted friend of our dear Willie, whose interests
were so entirely mine that I cling to all his favor-
ites, and ever shall. It is a great comfort to culti-
vate his friendships, and to keep alive all that was
pleasant to him.
“Joe reads aloud of eve'gs, and never forgets
to ask every morning what he can do to serve
us."
TO EDWARD AND ANNA HOPPER.
“Boston, 1857.
“We cannot say just when we shall be at home.
We live a day at a time, the children doing more
visiting than I should be able to accomplish. They
find many pleasant paths to walk in and are able
to go alone. Where there are briers and thorns,
* Joseph H. Choate, Esq.

1857]
241
Visit to Boston
6
course.
.
I bear them company, and we have all journeyed
so far without the slightest entanglement.
“We have made no plans, but concluded to fol-
low the light, and at every turn, have been able to
pick up sweetest flowers of a beautiful life. Such
love for a young man of twenty-two ! We have
already had over one hundred calls from old, mid-
dle-aged, and young, -all bringing sweet memories.
Dr. Walker and wife were among the earliest, of
A charming young man by the
name of Eliot (a friend of Willie's) was invited to
tea* Alfred S. Hartwell, his room-mate, came in
the evening. We returned to Boston at ten o'clock,
Hartwell and Jimmy Lowell (both particular
friends of Willie's) accompanying.
"I passed an hour with Dr. Walker, alone in his
library. He talked long and beautifully of the
strength and influence of Willie's character, and
the loss to the College in every sense; adding, that
he never was so affected by any event of his life.
He talked sweetly to the children, and we all left
with a feeling akin to adoration for the great and
excellent man. Their home is neat, tasteful and
very comfortable. The grounds about the house
beautiful, and the road leading to it a bower of
elms and other trees, with abundance of beautiful
shrubbery.
"You may think it strange that we are here so
long, but I am satisfied that it is good for me as
well as the children to be in pleasant places, where
* Charles W. Eliot, afterwards President of Harvard
College.
16

242
[1857
Abby bopper Gibbons
we find comfort such as can only be given us for a
season.
“When Willie's Class graduate, we shall not so
easily obtain access to his room, where we have
already passed peaceful hours, and where his
nearest friends are most free to surround us. And
then his Bust is there, with white roses about it,
and the whole room fragrant with flowers. His
photograph hangs over Hartwell's bed, and by the
side of his Bust is yet another. His bed is there,
and table, and chairs. The same carpet and the
little conveniences we purchased together,
“ The Students cannot have their choice of
rooms, but each succeeding year, pass from one
Hall to another. Hartwell had so much feeling
about keeping dear Willie's, that he is allowed the
privilege, in respect to the tenderness he manifests,
and his excellent character. His delicate atten-
tions and his devotion to the plans marked out by
Willie, attach us to him greatly.
“And now while I have said all this, and so
much more than was my intention when I took my
pen, let me assure you of my unfailing love for
those of my own kindred. There is a time for all
things under the sun, and if at this time I live in
the past and present, the future will abundantly
show that my heart greets you all in that love which
time and distance will never efface. As years in-
crease, troubled waters will run more smoothly,
and we shall rest in that tranquil life which God's
Angels will bring ever on this earth ; fitting us for
another, which, we are told and would fain believe,
will be made known to us at the appointed time."

CHAPTER XV.
GENERAL SUMMARY.*
IN
N Mrs. Gibbons, many of the charities in New
York had a friend and a most efficient helper ;
and though she died at the great age of ninety-
one, such was her activity, and such the strength
and clearness of all her faculties, that she was able,
to the last, to preside at the meetings of the differ-
ent societies of which she was the honored head;
giving such aid by her wise counsel, that it was
difficult to believe she had passed middle life,
and the mourning at her departure was like that
for one cut off in her prime. In early days,
she was her father's sympathetic assistant in
every good work, and after his death, she con-
tinued, during her long life, to carry on the chari-
ties which he had inaugurated. In these works of
benevolence, she had the active co-operation of
her husband, who was always ready to lend a
helping hand.
Mr. and Mrs. Gibbons being enthusiastic Aboli-
tionists, their house in New York became, like
Friend Hopper's, a refuge for escaping slaves.
They shared in all his Anti-Slavery interests and
* Portions of this summary are based on an article in the
Charities Review, prepared by Sarah S. Thayer.
243

244
Abby hopper Gibbons
activities, and many a fugitive has been sheltered
and forwarded on his journey by them.
Mrs. Gibbons was always ready with practical
advice and help ; the poor and discouraged came
to her with their troubles and never came in vain.
Her sympathy for any person or class immediately
took a practical form. Becoming interested in
some homeless little German children in her neigh-
borhood, she at once set about the establishment
of an Industrial School for such children. This
numbered, at one time, two hundred scholars, and
was of great benefit to the German population.
Mrs. Gibbons remained at the head of it twelve
years, taking an active part in the management.
Years before, she, with Miss Catherine M. Sedg-
wick, visited the City Poor-house at West Farms,-
now Randall's Island ; the sympathies of these
kind-hearted women were greatly stirred by the
sight of the little children, many of them crippled
or sick or blind, sitting in straight, hard chairs,
poorly fed and poorly clad, and with nothing to
cheer their lives; and they exerted themselves to
secure for them better quarters and better care.
Mrs. Gibbons also interested herself for their
amusement, and every year, as the Christmas sea-
son drew near, there was, at her house, a“Randall's
Island doll-dressing"; and, until the infirmities of
age prevented, she was accustomed to go herself
with the dolls, and other toys, and cakes and can-
dies, which her own hands had packed, and see
that every child had a share.
In this work she was aided by dear friends,

General Summary
245
among whom may be numbered Margaret B. Davis,
with her sisters Abby and Elizabeth Beale ; and
Mrs. Edward Cook, the faithful friend of many
years, who, in dying, left it as a legacy to her chil-
dren to perform this grateful task; and well they
have done it.
The little waifs came to look forward eagerly to
this Christmas visit, and it was the custom for those
who were able, to assemble on the occasion and
sing a hearty greeting to their benefactor and her
friends. There was something pathetic, and, at
times, inexpressibly touching, in the sound of their
plaintive young voices and in the sight of their
little faces, many of them worn by hardship or
showing hereditary taint.
Those were fortunate who had the privilege of
accompanying Mrs. Gibbons on these occasions.
The infirmities of age compelled her to give up
going, but as long as she lived, she did not fail to
see that the children were remembered, and the
customary gifts, packed by her own hands, were
taken by the friends above referred to.
The work of prison reform, in which her father
was a prime mover, found in her an energetic ally.
Her weekly visits to the Tombs made the begin-
ning of her acquaintance with Flora Foster, for so
many years the well-known and highly esteemed
Matron. This acquaintance soon ripened into an
intimate friendship, ending only with Miss Foster's
death. These good women, who had sympathies
and aims in common, often took counsel together.
Mrs. Gibbons's interests were not confined to

246
Abby hopper Gibbons
persons who had fallen into trouble through crime
or misfortune. She had a large constituency who
came to her from every class for counsel, and
sometimes for help. Probably few people have
held so many personal and family secrets as she.
Mother's mysteries "-her children were wont
to call those depths which no one could fathom.
Her sympathy, quick insight, and practical wis-
dom enabled her, in most of these cases, to find
the cause of trouble and point out the remedy.
A rare talent for administration and excellent
management made it possible for Mrs. Gibbons to
do much for others, while looking well to the ways
of her own household. She was known among her
friends as one of the old-time and excellent house-
keepers, as one noted for her good bread and good
coffee, and for a large-hearted hospitality. Her
love of order, which led her to keep as well as put
things in place, and the executive ability which
was applied to affairs in her own household, as
well as to her outside work, enabled her to keep
the even tenor of her way, accomplishing much
with little or no disturbance.
In the old days of Anti-Slavery Conventions,
and on similar occasions, every available sleeping-
place in the house was filled with guests, and many
a bed was made upon the floor; for at that time
it was not the custom for attendants upon a Con-
vention to take rooms at a hotel. They were enter-
tained by friends, and this custom still holds in the
sect to which Mrs. Gibbons belonged.
On one of these occasions a friend from Central

General Summary
247
66
New York asked his hostess if she could possibly
find one more place, for a colored brother for
whom he wished to provide.
Not unless thee will take him into thy bed,"
was the reply.
No objection being raised, the white and the
very black brother shared the same cot.
At an-
other time, a fire breaking out in the next house,
abundant help was furnished by the guests;
Charles Burleigh carrying one child to a neigh-
bor's house, while another went in the arms of
Edmund Quincy.
At a time like this the children of the family
were crowded into close quarters, for, however
great the pressure, the careful parents never al-
lowed them to go beyond their supervision, or left
them alone in the care of domestics; and any in-
convenience to which they might be subjected was
made endurable by their mother's cheerful talk.
The wisdom of this mother was shown in the
education of her children. While careful to keep
them from pictures of sorrow and sin as depicted
in the novels of the day, she roused their sympathy
with real trouble by taking them to see poverty
and suffering as it actually existed in the city.
Their education was carefully watched in child-
hood, and, as we have seen, when they were old
enough to leave home, her daughters were placed
under the care of Mrs. Charles Sedgwick, of
Lenox, Mass., a woman of rare wisdom and cul-
ture, with whom Mrs. Gibbons had many traits of
character in common. After the death of her son,

248
Abby hopper Gibbons
she did not allow her grief to keep her long from
works of charity, or from any duty which the time
demanded of her. In alleviating the sorrows of
others, she sought refuge from her own.
Upon the breaking out of the Civil War, she was
an early respondent to the call for help in hospi-
tal and camp. Her many qualifications as a nurse
made her assistance exceedingly valuable. Taking
her eldest daughter, she entered upon the work,
and they were sent at once to the front, where
they were often in positions of extreme peril. She
remained in the service, with few intermissions,
from 1861 to 1865. It was during Mrs. Gibbons'
absence from home on this errand of mercy, that
the well-known draft riots occurred in New York,
and so much valuable property was destroyed by
infuriated mobs.
Among the houses which early attracted the
attention of the rioters was that of Mrs. Gibbons ;
since Horace Greeley, William Lloyd Garrison,
and other prominent Abolitionists were well known
to have been entertained there. Moreover, the
house had been illuminated a few months before
in honor of the Emancipation Proclamation. The
rioters came upon it with such suddenness and
force that little could be saved. The house was
sacked and many papers and articles of great
value totally destroyed.
Mrs. Gibbons was then stationed at Point Look-
out, and came as soon as possible to her devastated
home. “It was a sad scene which met her eye,”
says an
account which has been given of it,

General Summary
249
66
There was not an unbroken pane of glass in any
of the windows. The panels of the doors were
many of them beaten in, as with an axe. The
furniture was destroyed or carried away-bureaus,
desks, receptacles of all kinds, had been broken
and the contents stolen or rendered worthless ;
the floors were soaked with a trampled conglom-
erate of mud and water, oil and filth, and the
débris left by the maddened, howling crowd ;
beds and bedding, mirrors and smaller articles
had been carried away; the piano had had a fire
kindled on the keyboard ; and indeed, the house
was set on fire in many places, the flames extin-
guished none knew how."
With her usual courage and energy Mrs. Gib-
bons gave herself to the work of reconstruction,
and after seeing her household again settled she
returned to Army work, where she remained until
called home by the illness of a daughter. The
end of the war came soon after, so that she had no
occasion to go back, and soon took up again her
charitable work in the city.
Realizing, from her experience in the Army, the
needs of many soldiers and their families, Mrs.
Gibbons at once interested herself in starting a
“Labor and Aid Society," which might help re-
turned soldiers to find employment, and furnish
work and an opportunity for education to their
needy families, and so keep them from becoming
paupers and a charge to the city. It had a fine
laundry, the first to be established in connection
with any charitable institution ; and provided a

250
Elbby bopper Gibbons
nursery and school for the children whose moth-
ers were unable to leave them at home.
Mrs. Gibbons's idea was that if this small begin-
ning proved a success, the same plan of work might
be adopted for the other poor of the city. The
institution was soon in perfect running order,
and, in all respects, fulfilling the expectations of its
founder ; but its usefulness was hampered by the
timidity of a few of the Managers, whose influence
was altogether in the line of discouragement. These
ladies, taking fright at the idea of being responsi-
ble for the expenses, and not trusting to Mrs. Gib-
bons's sagacity and judgment, devoted their ener-
gies to closing the doors of this beneficent charity.
A severe illness ensuing at this time, she was
prevailed upon by her family to give up her treas-
ured scheme, not because of any weakness, but
because those who should have shared its re-
sponsibilities, were unequal to the trust.
The number of such laundries since established
in the city, is sufficient proof that the plan was a
good one, destined to be of benefit to a large class
of unfortunate women.
Later, the need of a Protestant Asylum for In-
fants was brought to her attention, and she labored
in behalf of that object until she saw it established.
She was made President of the “Diet Kitchen As-
sociation," a charity planned by Dr. C. H. Atwater.
It was incorporated in 1873. Beginning with one
Kitchen, it extended its number as fast
its means
would allow, until now there are four Kitchens.
The object of the Diet Kitchens is to furnish food

General Summary
251
to the sick poor and they work in connection with
the nearest Dispensaries. These Kitchens furnish
rations of beef-tea, milk, rice, and eggs, which are
dealt out on the written order of a Dispensary Phy-
sician, furnished with blanks for the purpose, and
relief is continued as long as it is ordered by him.
Mrs. Gibbons was also President, from its begin-
ning, of the “New-York Committee for the Preven-
tion of State Regulation of Vice.” One of its officers
has said : “Mrs. Gibbons engaged in the work of
our Committee with great earnestness, rare wisdom,
and tact born of large experience." At a meeting
held after her death, the resolutions adopted "tes-
tify to her earnest devotion, her clear insight, and
her rare and unfaltering moral courage in this
sphere of philanthropy and reform.”
Although Mrs. Gibbons has been well known in
connection with many charitable enterprises in
New York, it is with the “Women's Prison Associ-
ation," and the work growing out of it, that she is
most thoroughly identified, and for this reason, it
may be well to give a short account of its history.
The plan of a Prison Association was formed in
1844, when several gentlemen who were much in-
terested in the condition of prisoners discharged
from prisons, without money, without friends, and
with a character blasted, so that it was exceedingly
difficult to procure employment, met to take into
consideration the care of such persons.
This
gathering resulted in a call for a meeting which
was held soon after, when the following resolution
was offered by the Hon. John W. Edmonds :

252
Abby bopper Gibbons
"Resolved, That it is expedient to form, in the
city of New York, a Prison Association, and a
nomination of suitable officers therefor."
At the same meeting, Isaac T. Hopper offered
the following
“Resolved, That, to sustain and encourage dis-
charged convicts who give satisfactory evidence of
repentance and reformation in their efforts to lead
honest lives, by affording them employment and
guarding them against temptation, is demanded
of us, not only by the interests of society, but
by every dictate of humanity.
“Resolved, That in the foundation of such a
Society, it would be proper to have a Female De-
partment, to be specially regardful of the interest
and welfare of prisoners of that sex.”
These were unanimously passed, and in accord-
ance with the latter resolution, a house was taken
six months afterwards, to be used as an asylum
for such prisoners, and called "The Home." Two
Matrons were placed in charge, and a committee
of ladies organized to superintend and control its
operations. A Sewing Department and School
were established, and, at a later day, a Laundry.
By these industries, the more experienced could
pay their way, and the unskilled were taught the
various occupations which would fit them for ser-
vice in families, where, after a time, homes were
found for them ; mainly in country places.
After careful and friendly deliberation, it was
thought best that the Female Department should
have a separate and independent organization.

General Summary
253
Accordingly, its connection with the Prison As-
sociation was severed, and it was known there-
after as “The Women's Prison Association and
Home.” In 1854, application was made for an
act of incorporation. It is said to have encoun-
tered much opposition on the ground that it would
be likely to interfere with the authority of the State
over prisons. Here Isaac T. Hopper again gave val-
uable aid, by going to Albany frequently to sustain
the measure. It was said at the time, that the Bill was
carried mainly by the exertion of his personal influ-
ence. The Legislature were more inclined to have
confidence in him because he was known to be a
benevolent, conscientious Quaker entirely uncon-
nected with politics.
Later, owing to the multiplication of Homes for
various purposes, the name of the "Isaac T. Hopper
Home” was adopted for the House Department.
From the beginning, Mrs. Gibbons was an active
member of the Association and its efficient Presi-
dent for many years, presiding at the January
Meeting only two weeks before she was called
home to her Father's house. That the Association
has taken a reforming interest in prisons and sta-
tion houses, may be seen by looking over its Yearly
Reports.
Among the most important of its reforms in later
years, is the one securing a law making mandatory
the employment of Police Matrons, who should be
at hand day and night, to take charge of arrested
women. Mrs. Gibbons felt a strong interest in
these women, arrested at night, and thrust into the

254
Abby bopper Gibbons
same building with drunken men, with no one to
look to for help but the policemen. She insisted
that they should be placed in charge of one of their
own sex, and she worked incessantly to this end.
There was a beginning of a better state of things
in 1889, when the Police Commissioners ordered
that women should be searched by a woman, but
Mrs. Gibbons was not content to let the matter rest
there. She communicated with those in authority
and went to Albany to urge the subject upon the
Committee in charge of it. Her presence there
always commanded respectful attention and had
great influence. She had the satisfaction of know-
ing that the Bill had passed both branches of the
Legislature, and the disappointment of having it
vetoed by Governor Hill.
With the coming into office of a new Governor,
Mrs. Gibbons determined to try again.
This was no sooner settled than she took up a
matter which had been near her heart for a great
while ; one for which she had been working here-
tofore unsuccessfully, and which was destined to
be the crowning work of her life-the Bill provid-
ing a Reformatory for Women and Girls of New
York and Westchester. Like the Police Matrons'
Bill, after successfully passing the Legislature, it
had been vetoed by the Governor some two years
before. She was now encouraged to make a re-
newed effort, and brought all her influence to bear
upon those who had the Bill in charge. She was
indefatigable in writing letters, and in talking to
anyone who could, in any way, help forward the

General Summary
255
work, and in February, 1892, when she was past
ninety years of age, she went once more to Albany,
with two other members of the Women's Prison
Association, and appeared at a hearing before
the Ways and Means Committee, to advocate the
measure.
This had the effect to carry the Bill in the As-
sembly without a dissenting vote, and before the
close of the session, it received the concurrence
of the Senate. The Governor's signature was de-
layed, and made fearful by former experience, even
Mrs. Gibbons's spirit began to droop.
“I do not care for myself and the failure of my
plans," she said, with much feeling in this time of
discouragement, “but I do care for these poor wo-
men who need this Reformatory so much.”
In her efforts, she had the assistance of Miss
Louisa Lee Schuyler, who introduced to her John
J. Finley. Mr. Finley entered with ability and
enthusiasm into the work, and it was by his aid in
Albany that the Bill was finally passed and signed
by the Governor, to the great satisfaction of its
originator, who had labored so perseveringly to
this end.
The wished-for telegrams finally came from in-
terested friends in Albany, and she received con-
gratulations on all sides as serenely as she had
borne her previous disappointments.
It was provided that the Act should go into
effect immediately, and she had the satisfaction of
seeing the work started at once and the site bought
in Bedford, Westchester County ; and the added

256
Abby bopper Gibbons
satisfaction of consulting with the committee ap-
pointed about plans for buildings and the future
working of the institution.
It was a fit ending to her life. Undoubtedly, if
she had lived, other benevolent work would have
engaged her attention, for she was one of those
high hearts that are never long without hearing
some new call to duty, some distant clarion of
God," and are ready to “start on some fresh march
of faithful service.”
Mrs. Gibbons was so direct and sensible in all
her methods and had so much sympathy with
young as well as old people, that her counsel and
help were often sought by those who wished to
engage in charitable enterprises, and she found
ready helpers in all her philanthropic undertakings.
“People who have once worked with Aunt Abby
are always glad to work with her again,” was the
remark of a favorite nephew.
It has been observed, that in her many efforts
to benefit women, Mrs. Gibbons never identified
herself with any organization for the advocacy of
Women's Rights. With so much practical work
on hand, it may well be supposed that she had lit-
tle time to devote to the advancement of theories,
and possibly she may have felt less interest in the
subject from the fact that, as a member of the So-
ciety of Friends, she had been early accustomed
to the practical equality of men and women ; since
in all affairs of the Society, women are listened to
as preachers, and placed equally with men on
Committees for education, care of the poor, mis-

General Summary
257
sions to Indians, financial matters, etc. To her, as
to her father, there was nothing unseemly in a
woman using any talent with which she was en-
dowed, or transacting any business which she had
the ability to do well.
No record has been kept of the waifs and strays
who found refuge in the Gibbons house. In her
weekly visits to the Tombs, there was a continual
demand made on Mrs. Gibbons's sympathies. One
day, it was “little Nell” who put her hand confid-
ingly in that of the kind-faced woman and said
in pleading tones :
“Won't you be my mudder ?”
She was taken home to stay until she could be
suitably adopted. Again, it was the child of an
unfortunate “Home” woman and on such an oc-
casion, when one of these was sitting at Mrs.
Gibbons's knee with her patchwork, the child's
mother came to the door to ask for her. Presently,
the child was heard to say :
“I heard a wice (voice) and it said, 'I want my
child.'
Do you want to go?" asked Mrs. Gibbons.
“No," was the answer, and the little creature
proceeded to relate her experiences in her wander-
ings with her mother, telling how, in one grogshop,
she exchanged her petticoat for a drink; in an-
other, her apron ; and so on; until she was
arrested and taken to a Station House.
Sometimes it was a woman who had committed
murder-had shot her betrayer. Sometimes, a
poor young girl who had been led astray.
17

258
Ebby bopper Gibbons
Once, an elegantly dressed lady came to see
Mrs. Gibbons, requesting that her name should not
be asked. After conversing with her for a few
moments, Mrs. Gibbons said :
“I must insist upon knowing who thee is.”
The stranger burst into a flood of tears and
presently asked :
“Do you remember, in one of your visits to the
Tombs years ago, finding a young girl dressed in
boy's clothes?”
“Yes," was the answer.
What did you do with her ?”
“I sent her to the country to learn to braid
straw. Afterwards, I wrote to her uncle who took
her home.”
“I am that girl.”
Then came the story of the return to her uncle's
home, of subsequent poor health and a visit to
Newport where she made the acquaintance of her
husband; of her telling him the whole story of
her hairbreadth escape ; of his wishing to marry
her, and their “only unhappiness" being that she
had never been to thank the kind friend who had
rescued her in time to save her from misery. She
finished thus :
'My husband is a banker of this city ; he knows
Mr. Gibbons well and we are liable to meet in so-
ciety at any time."
Let us never refer to this subject again," said
her friend, and they never did.
Again, it was a young girl of sixteen who had at-
tempted the crime of abortion and whom a humane
66

General Summary
259
CG
young physician had found in a Station House
where she had passed the night. She seemed not
like the ordinary run of such unfortunates, and “if
Mrs. Gibbons would go to Court and offer to take
her under her protection, she might be saved from
certain destruction."
There were enough of these tales to fill a book,
for no one ever went empty from her door. One
more was that of
HC-
-, a
Home ” woman
often in the employ of Mrs. Gibbons. All the
week she worked well, but when Sunday came and
there was comparatively little to do, her ruling
passion got the better of her and she regularly
walked off with something belonging to the house.
Before she reached the corner of the street, con-
science whispered in her ear and she stopped the
first person she met, man or boy, and begged him
' for God's sake, to carry that parcel to Mrs. Gib-
bons.” The “parcel" might be a pair of old over-
shoes or a worn out basket; never anything of
value, and sure to be returned.
After an experience of years, Mrs. Gibbons sent
her to service in Connecticut, where she outgrew
her old propensities, became a perfectly honest
woman, and employed the very class to which she
had belonged; often sending twenty dollars' worth
of sewing at one time to be done at the “ Home.”
Increasing age obliged Mrs. Gibbons to with-
draw more and more to the quiet of her home, but
she kept up her interest to the end, as will be seen,
in the various works of charity in which she had
been engaged ; she took a keen interest in political
66

260
Abby bopper Gibbons
matters and liked to discuss these subjects with the
friends who were wont to come in the evening to
have the pleasure of her kind and cordial greeting,
and to enjoy her bright and sensible conversation,
for age brought no failure of mind or heart. The
busy hands were usually occupied with knitting, or
with the exquisite embroidery which her friends
know so well. A sonnet addressed to her by her
son-in-law, has given a beautiful picture of her
lovely old age.

CHAPTER XVI.
1857-1859.
JOHN BROWN.
A
FEW weeks before the “raid,” which took
place on the 16th of October, 1859, John
Brown passed an evening at the Gibbons
house, and confided to Mrs. Gibbons the full par-
ticulars of his plan for the uprising at Harper's
Ferry. While sympathizing with the end he had
in view—the freeing of the slaves—Mrs. Gibbons
felt convinced that the scheme was not practical.
In the course of the conversation, she inquired of
him what he intended to do with the women and
children. In a voice full of tenderness, he replied :
“Not hurt a hair of their heads.”
With her characteristic regard for the secrets of
others, she did not speak of this interview, even in
her own family circle, and her surprise was not less
than theirs, when the newspapers gave an account
of the attack on Harper's Ferry.
At the time of the riots in '63, a “ John Brown
pike" stood in the corner of the Gibbons parlor.
GEORGE L. STEARNS TO MRS. GIBBONS.
66
“ Boston, May 18, 1857.
. . I must write to you, what I could in
person explain much better.
261

262
(1857-
Abby hopper Gibbons
66
'Since the close of the last year, we have confined
our operations to aiding those persons in Kansas
who were, or intended to become, residents of the
Territory ; believing that sufficient inducement to
immigrate existed in the prosperous state of affairs
there ; and we now believe that, should quiet and
prosperity continue there for another year, the
large influx of Northern and Eastern men will se-
cure the State for Freedom.
“ To ensure the present prosperity, we purpose
Ist. To have our Legislature make a grant of
$100,000, to be placed in the hands of discreet
persons, for the relief of those in Kansas who are
or may become destitute through border ruffian
outrage.
We think it will be done.
“ 2d. To organize a secret force, well armed, and
under control of the farmer, John Brown, to repel
border ruffian outrage and defend the Free State
men from all illegal impositions. This organiza-
tion is to be a strictly defensive one.
“3d. To aid, by timely donations of money,
those parties of settlers in the Territory, who, from
misfortune, are unable to provide for their present
wants.
“I am personally acquainted with Capt. Brown,
and have great confidence in his courage, prudence,
and good judgment. He has control of the whole
affair, including contributions of arms, clothing, &c.
to the amount of $13,000. His presence in the
Territory will, we think, give the Free State men
confidence in their cause, and also check the dispo-
sition of the border ruffians to impose on them.

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Fobn Brown
“This, I believe to be the most important
work to be done in Kansas at the present time.
Many of the Free State leaders, being engaged in
speculations, are willing to accept peace on any
terms. Brown and his friends will hold to the
original principle of making Kansas free, without
regard to private interests.
If you agree with me, I should like to have
your money appropriated for the use of Capt. John
Brown. If not for that, the other proposition, to
aid parties of settlers now in the territory, will be
the next best.”
(6
66
ENDORSED BY MISS SEDGWICK AS A CAPITAL
LETTER FROM MRS. GIBBONS.”
“New York, Sept. 17, '57.
“If Mrs. Sedgwick's going to Europe should
bring good and pleasant things to us, (as dear
Willie used to say) ‘it would be great.' We are
talking of how we would make our front chamber
look, upon such a state occasion ; and then as we
are going to have it papered the coming month,
and should fix it off with keepsakes and comforts
of various kinds; and, as our way is to allow our
friends to do just as they please on all occasions,
having a fire, too, of cannel coal in the grate, etc.,
etc.—it seems to me it might be a right pleasant
home. And then we have the best and most effi-
cient help we have had since we have been at house-
keeping, and think the blessing promises to hold
on for a time.

264
(1857-
Ilbby 'bopper Gibbons
“Now what sayest thou to all this, and may I
dare to let thy Bessie know I have said so much,
or hinted how delighted we should all be to see a
carriage, with thy trunks and dear self driving up
to our door? My husband is just as full of this
plan as we are, and the children all crazy about it.
Speak, my dear friend, and say our plan may be
carried out. Thou wilt be brought into contact
with a new set of people, and some of them will so
impress thee that when thou givest us another Book,
no word will be spoken of Woman's Rights, but thou
wilt speak of human Rights, which they mean to
advocate. Thy walk in life has been in pleasant
paths, adorned with flowers, not without thorns, but
it has seemed to me, aside from a class who suffer
untold wrongs, which thou mayst not know of.
And then to marry
Grace ! .. Do any say
What a pity !! I was certain of finding a perfect
being (allow me to whisper) like thy dear self. It
was too much. All thy words and feelings about
marriage I heartily unite with. I tell everybody,
married or single, to read the book. Every variety
of character there represented is to be found in
everyday life. It delights all. Miss Grimké, whom
thou knowest by character, I think, was charmed,
and left her bed at midnight to read on, so much
was she excited and interested. In case she is a
stranger, I will just say she was once the mistress
of a fortune in slaves. Her story is a long one,
but she emancipated all, and is now a teacher in
Theodore Weld's School. He married her sister.
* Miss Sedgwick's Married and Single had just appeared,

1859]
265
John Brown
They are people of great and singular gifts, insane on
the subject of Woman's Rights,-wearing bloomer
dresses,—and so plain, as to prevent (certainly,
stand in the way of) any form of dress they may
choose to adopt. Neat in all their ways, youthful
in feeling, but oh! so appearing, that a sight of
them would make anyone laugh the livelong day,-
while all respect and love them. She bored Sally
and Julia to death on the 'Rights,' and did not con-
vert them. In short, I think myself that to convert
them, they must first know the mind of the Sedg-
wick family. It is well their father and mother
have faith in the same direction.
“How Mrs. Sedgwick will miss Gracie, and how
we shall welcome Bessie and the baby ! We won-
der when they are coming. So soon as Sally read
thy letter, she sat down to relieve her mind—to use
a Quaker expression-and such a talking over of
plans for thy coming ensued, as amused us greatly.
Mr. Gibbons said, 'She shall not be confined to
a perch; she shall have a rood.' So thou seest
how we are 'reckoning.'
“I am anxious about our poor 'Home.' It must
be sustained and we must have hearts for the work.
The majority of our committee are utterly useless-
worse-clogs, to any work. I wish they would
have the sense to resign ; twenty-five are too many,
unless they are worth more. They dodge in during
the winter months, and when the birds begin to
sing are off, never having accomplished more than
a waste of time. As to giving up the poor creatures,
that I can never do. They have become too de-

266
(1857-
Abby bopper Gibbons
66
pendent upon us, and I look about me, and see
enough done, to urge me to struggle on. Our
whole system is bad. We did, in days gone by,
use these now useless ones, to visit the prisons.
Their sympathies became awakened, and the result
was money. They reach a certain class, by their
kind manner, and feel that they are doing some-
thing
Moreover, it takes more than one class of mind
—and a force in number, to visit our prisons. An
Elizabeth Fry or a Miss Dix, could not begin
to do it. It is not to talk with the officers, but
patiently to gain the confidence of the prisoner and
lead her in the way of a better life. A Ward is
sufficient work for a day, and a communion of
labor alone will accomplish the work. Our Meet-
ings are talking Meetings, and when we leave them,
we feel that nothing is done. A support for the
'Home' is not thought of. Peace is death. We
are afraid to be outspoken and faithful to each
other. We need a 'Rights' woman. Let her
come! Where is she ?"
"Lovingly and forever,
“ A. H. Gibbons."
TO CATHERINE ROBINSON KEESE.
" New-York, 214, 1858.
... Now, my dear Catherine, here is a
matter of my own. Julia made a visit to her
Grandmother Gibbons early in the Winter, and
wrote about a little colored girl nine years old ;
begging the privilege of bringing her out of a slave

1859]
267
John Brown
state. She is free, and as smart a child to work
as is to be found in the States. She works like a
woman, cleans knives splendidly, can wash, iron a
little, scrub well, delights in work and I cannot
find half enough for her to do. She is very happy
and pleasant tempered ; lies from habit, and is not
wilful at all. If I had work for her I would not
give her up to anybody. She is very affectionate
and wide awake in every sense.
Does thee know
of a good home for such an one? I wish her to be
well brought up as she is Julia's own child and
we feel responsible for her. There are too many
temptations here. Julia gave the child's mother a
new dress and became rightful owner of the child.
A strange proceeding. She is willing she should
go to a good home and James is possessed to think
that Catherine Keese will make a remarkable
woman of her.
FROM W. S. THAYER.
Washington, Feb. 17, '58.
"My dear Mrs. Gibbons.
Among the
agreeable people here, whom I visit more or less,
are Dr. Bailey, Editor of the National Era, Mr.
Sumner, of Massachusetts, Mr. Chase, of Ohio,
and Mr. Blair. They are all of liberal views, so
that I am in small danger of becoming an ‘Old
Hunker,' from my Washington life. Mr. Tweed,
of the N. Y. delegation, told me, sometime since,
that I should soon become a national' man and
a friend of the South. I replied that I had always
6

268
(1857-
Abby bopper Gibbons
been both, though in a different sense from his
understanding of the words.
“This is the way most people talk, especially
politicians. The other day, as I was in the room
of Sidney Webster, the President's Private Sec-
retary, he addressed me thus : ' Thayer, you are a
good fellow and I like you ; but you have certain
contraband notions about Slavery that you should
give up.
The fact is, the black slaves are far better
off than the white laborers of the North. I wish
you would reflect upon your opinions.'
“I said, 'I will reflect upon them, when I make
application for office.'
“Mr. Nicholson, Editor of the President's
paper, the Washington Union, was in the room and
laughed very heartily, as if I had the best of the
joke.
TO MISS THAYER.
“ New-York, 216, 1858.
“How much those lovely messengers from thy
own mountain home have told me! They are
forever whispering of love and tenderness. They
speak long and loudly of thee, and of thy brother
William, and I hope they told me truly that thou
wouldst join them here at no very distant day.
When thou comest to New York, here is thy abid-
ing place. Remember it, my dear, and know that
thy time is the best time, and that our home is ever
ready, and our hearts, too, to take thee in.
“Sarah, it was beautiful to send me those lovely
ferns. No one can enjoy them more than I. From

1859]
269
Fobn Brown
my babyhood, I have looked upon Autumn's rich
foliage, and been made better by it. The richest
leaves and lovely tress of maiden hair are in a
white marble vase, near Willie's bust.
Thy presence here is to seal the friendship, which
is to last forever.
TO LUCY.
" New York, 7th mo. 15, '58.
"In the absence of music, I have been looking
for sunlight, but not one ray has passed this way by
any aid of thine. I do not mean to say that we
have lived in darkness, for our usual round of
visitors are bright lights, and, but for them, how
often we should lose our way! Thanks to dear
Willie's kind and devoted friends, (true to him
always) who have borne us over hill and dale,
speaking the most tender words that ever friend-
ship uttered ! I often wonder they do not tire of
coming where they find so little, and yet I am
comforted by feeling that they do not always go
empty away.
Mrs. Sedgwick surprised us by driving up to
the door on 7th day, and staid delightfully with us
until Second day. Her visits will wake up the
dead for weeks to come. She comes with a fresh-
ness and dispenses so liberally, that one feels richer
and better for her presence. William Emerson said
most enthusiastically : She is a great woman!'
" It is a great pleasure to hear how well Willie's
Class will graduate. There has been no such Class
for
years. I am told the President and Professors
66

270
(1857-
Abby hopper Gibbons
are greatly delighted and I am glad that such
should be the close of dear Dr. Walker's experience
at Cambridge University. The Class have done
themselves great honour. I hear that they have
referred beautifully to dear Willie in the Class
Poem. Hartwell is preparing a little Biography to
leave in the Library. Of such a loving spirit are
they possessed that nothing approaching a duty
is unheeded.
“Thy sisters miss thy music.
.
TO WILLIAM LLOYD GARRISON.
“ New-York, 8/17, '58.
“We are delighted to hear that thy son Wen-
dell is coming this way. This is to give notice that
a warm welcome awaits him at 19 Lamartine Place.
The whole family join me in the earnest wish that
he may drop in at any hour and on any day ; and
if he will speak by letter, we will meet him at the
cars and show him the way. This would be the
better plan. Come, Wendell, my dear young friend,
and thou shalt be made to feel at home, and shall
have just as many privileges as under thy dear
father's roof.
“I ran off to Wendell unconsciously. Let me
say to thee that we had a delightful visit from Dr.
Walker, who speaks beautifully of Wendell, thy son,
and admiringly of thee. He astonished us with his
genuine Anti-Slavery, and liberality in all things.
“Let Wendell fix no time for a return; New-
York is very pleasant where we live; we do not

Job Brown
271
suffer from heat at all. My husband says, 'tell
him he must come direct to our house and stay
long.'
Commanding him to pack up at once and
hasten to us, believe me, in great haste, thine and
Helen's loving
"A. H. Gibbons."
TO JULIA AND LUCY.
“8/24, 1858.
“At Milo Smith's, Berkshire, surrounded by
lovely woods and mountains, where Willie found
himself so happy, we think of you, and vainly wish
you of the party.
“ Aunt Rachel bears the journey and rushing
over hill and dale better than you could believe.
No headache or ailing of any kind, although we did
go over a very risky road from Copake to Milo's
with two young colts only three years old. We
squirmed at first, but the further we travelled, the
more courage we gained.
“We have been looking into the Note Book and
find lines written by Willie ; by Mrs. Sedgwick,
too; and your names, my daughters three, are
conspicuous, with names of your friends. Lovely
were those schooldays, of which you will tell
your children and grandchildren, associating them
always with dear Willie's beautiful life.
“Your father's thoughts are doubtless running
upon a book or a periodical, and I am not certain
he is aware of my being away, save when he sits
down to table. 'Spose he does not imagine me

272
[1857-
Abby bopper Gibbons
there, if he imagines anything of a domestic char-
acter ; but I imagine, being as I 'm a woman, and
have travelled some way into life, that I shall be
able to travel out, as well.
“Take good care of all my interests, and, if
letters come, regard them as of interest. Write and
think of me as your loving Mother."
TO HER BROTHER EDWARD.
left us.
“New-York, iomo. 2oth, '58.
“I can sympathize with all your feelings on
leaving and returning home and know how much
every day brings, to remind us of those who have
There is no help. Time does very little
for us, nor do I depend upon the lapse of years to
wear away the aching and loneliness of my deso-
late heart. Those around me need help, and while
I may seem to my friends of a brave and cheerful
spirit, they know not, and never will, how all the
while my very soul mourns that the light of my
life is gone. Strange if I should even become
reconciled to such a separation. Every day and
hour, I need the strength of Willie's companion-
ship; and his counsels for myself and children
were beyond all price. He was not a Simon Pure,
-no verily—and yet in his frolic and fun, there
was goodness and purity and the truest refinement.
I know of no virtue he did not possess, and sure I
am he was a stranger to vice, while he was not
withheld from temptations. No mortal could fill
his place; on Earth there is nothing like unto

1859]
273
Fobn Brown
him. God grant I may find him somewhere in the
future.”
TO LUCY.
.
“Lenox, 3/4, 1859.
“Thy letter was written in the right spirit and
the reproof accepted. While I must impress thee
with the fact that I did not speak in a faultfinding
tone. Far from it; but with a desire to remind
thee of daily duty; and then, thine seems to over-
look such parts of my letters as are addressed to
all. With your various gifts, I accept you on
equal ground, and if I refer at any time to your
imperfections, it is not a conclusion that I am in-
sensible to my own shortcomings.
“Your habits of industry satisfy me entirely. I
am more troubled by your incessant occupation,
and lately, have inclined to the idea that it is a
graceful accomplishment to be able to sit down
with hands folded, -and yet a lounger is my inex-
pressible disgust, and the practice I condemn, as
thou knowest. There are many ways in which I
could hold you all up as examples. You are
neither vain nor silly ; you are not given to extrav-
agance in dress or outdoor amusements; I am
glad to know that home is the attraction, and the
adornment of the mind the first consideration.
“When I see in any girl an inclination to deco-
rate her person, I think the poor child at fault
in some way, and feel sorry for her. A due regard
to dress I commend, and often regret my own in-
difference. I wish you to do as I say, not as I do.
18

274
(1857-
Abby bopper Gibbons
I am open to conviction, and just as ready to be
subject of reproof as if I were the daughter. I
never tell you to be respectful to me because I am
your mother. If I would command it, I must
respect you and your rights. It is a natural conse-
quence of a judicious management of children.”
ABBY TO EDWARD AND ANNA HOPPER.
"Lenox, 3/10, 1859.
“You may wonder why my letter should be thus
dated. I am here to comfort (the best I can)
and sustain Mrs. Sedgwick's daughter Grace. She
is the admirable 'Head' of her mother's well-
ordered home, and devotes herself faithfully to
the education of thirteen 'young ladies.' Miss
Sedgwick had charge of the family all winter, until
she became much exhausted ; when Mrs. Sedgwick
entreated me so tenderly and sweetly to pass a
little time with Gracie, that, with the consent of
my family, I readily agreed to it.
“I am completely at home, sit at the head of the
table surrounded by thirteen girls ('great institu-
tions,' John would say). I take care of the break-
fast things, pass the afternoon reading hour in the
circle, and devote the hour during evening study
to them, thus relieving Gracie. I walk and take
sleighrides with Gracie and the girls, and, in short,
am (as S. M. Grimké would say) a sort of School
Mother.
“Poor Mrs. Sedgwick! I see no relief near at
hand, but while her faith and trust remain un-
shaken, we must hope that her reward will be

1859]
275
Fobn Brown
comparative restoration and a return to the home,
of which she is an ornament and wonderful sup-
port.
“I am glad to be here on many accounts. Win-
ter brings such scores of every variety of customer
to our door, that I may acknowledge a weariness of
human nature in general. Here, we get a soul and
body rest. I have now a moment to talk on paper
with a friend ; for which I have been waiting ever
so long. I am employing my hours of leisure in
knitting an afghan for Sally. I do not call it work,
I am so perfectly at rest while doing it.
I
know of no opportunity so well calculated to make
fine women as that given here.
“I am happy that ours is a working family. It is
well to store away in youth ; it makes such com-
fortable old age. I am most happy too in finding
William Emerson so sensible in these matters.
Thank heaven he is not a fool, believing girls to be
mere machines. He is delighted with Sally's en-
terprise. With many thanks for all your kindness,
proofs of which are before me in broad nibbed
pens, which I am now using, believe me,
Your loving sister,
“ A. H. G."
FERDINAND LUIS TO MRS. GIBBONS.
“ New York, May 9, 1859.
“Mrs. Gibbons,
“President of German Industrial School, Av. C.
"Dear Madam,
"I have the pleasure to hand you enclosed
check for $910.00, being the amount which I, with

276
[1857-59
Abby hopper Gibbons
the assistance of my friends, Messrs. G. H. Kis-
sel, Alfred Schlesinger and Johannes Andresen,
have been fortunate enough to collect for your
school.
“And now, with my best wishes for the pros-
perity of this excellent philantrophic enterprise, so
ably and kindly managed by you, allow me to call
myself,
“Your most obedient servant,
" Ferdinand Luis."
MRS. CHARLES SEDGWICK TO MRS. GIBBONS.
“ New York, March 16, '59.
Commend me to such meddlers as you! The
more meddling of such sort,—that of a true, de-
voted, disinterested, faithful friend, —we can have,
the better. You know I have not yet given up
the hope of getting home before the vacation..
If I do not get home, as I have already written to
Grace, I shall give you and her carte blanche to
arrange all matters according to your best judg-
ment. I passed the day with the girls yesterday,
and staid until nine o'clock in the evening, and
shall do the same to-day and to-morrow. They
were all well and bright as could be, and I had a
very pleasant time with them. It looks queer there,
without your visible presence, but I felt your at-
mosphere, nevertheless, through the whole house,
so that I was still at home. Grace writes, with
great enthusiasm, of the strength and comfort she
derives from you ; which are, I know, unspeakable.
God bless you for being such a 'friend in need.'”

CHAPTER XVII.
1859-1861.
VISITS TO CAMBRIDGE AND SALEM.
TO ALL,
66
'THE
66
Cambridge, 8/12, '59.
'HE journey from New York to Boston is
tiresome where there is so little ventilation.
I like an open window. We reached Cam-
bridge before six and were received most lovingly
and cordially by Dr. and Mrs. Walker, where we
feel at home and as happy as this world can make
us, away from our true home in Lamartine Place.
Lucy, of course, came away without her work.
Strange and neglectful in her mother to suppose
she would remember all, so linked together in her
thoughts are the scraps of fancies, to the exclusion
of practical things. I wish sincerely said work
could be sent by Miss Grimké, who will be here
next Second Day. Do, please, try, that she may
be usefully employed ; otherwise, she will be
obliged to appear as a trifler. She would accom-
plish a great deal if she had it.
“I found my pens and right thankful I was for
them. To write with metal is simply torture.
There was nothing of special interest on the way,
277

278
(1859
Abby bopper Gibbons
beyond the fact that one lady, who sat in front,
handed me four delicious pears. She greeted me
as an old acquaintance, and so pressed me that I
was compelled to accept. She could not have
thought I looked starved, and why she was so gen-
erous, I cannot tell ; but know the pears were good
and grateful.”
TO ALL.
Cambridge, 8/18, '59.
“We shall have ever so much to say when we get
home, but to find time now seems impossible.
Lucy went boating on Fresh Pond last evening,
while I passed the time with Mrs. Lowell. The
day was passed with great satisfaction with Aunt
Maria and David in their Wayland Nest.* Aunt
Maria was very affectionate and we had a very
pleasant time. Will tell you more of the attractions
of the place, as well as its needs, when I see you.
Now, I am every moment looking for Mary Stearns,
who is coming to take us to Medford.
“Before I leave Cambridge, (which will be to-
morrow, for Salem,) let me bear afresh, a testimony,
which is not nece
cessary, I know. Dr. Walker is the
most sensible, reasonable and true man alive. He
thinks just right on everything. He was charmed
with Miss Grimké, and Mrs. Walker walked out
with her to see Susie Lesley. Was it not funny to
see them tripping through the College grounds ?
“Read this to your father, that he may not
say, 'oh, what writing!' Uncle David and Aunt
* David Lee and Lydia Maria Child are here referred to.

1861]
279
Visits to Cambridge and Salem
Maria asked all sorts of questions about you ; had
read The Poor Fiddle Maker, and thought it a lovely
story. Sally may feel complimented when she
hears that the story was read by Aunt Maria and
not yet Dr. Bellows' Sermon.
“I must say with love to my mate, my house-
keeper, the assistant editor, and her mate, and
kind messages to the helps of the household, and
a word commendatory of Lucy Collins,
“Goodbye,
A. H. G."
TO SALLY AND JULIA.
"Cambridge, '59.
“We left Dr. Walker's yesterday, having had
ten delightful days, peaceful as Heaven. There
were angels near, who whispered acceptable truths,
and I was made the happier. I saw a labouring
man at work in the College Yard. I dared to ask
him for the key to Stoughton,' which he soon
brought me. I soon made my way to dear Willie's
room, where I passed an hour unknown to any.
Every friend I met with, looked a remembrance
of him, and their many manifestations spoke loudly
of their love and tenderness. We had a very
pleasant call from Mrs. Dr. Estes Howe, and we
regretted that in our absence one day, the Doctor
called to take us a drive. He passed an hour with
us one morning. I was very sorry that Miss
Pomeroy was away, as well as some others whom
we desired to see. I am well content, however,
with the treasures we gathered, which will serve us
until we come again. We must leave many things

280
(1859-
Abby bopper Gibbons
until we see you. Our visits to
and
you
will know more of later. They are
generous, good people, and when we learn of their
ways, and do the good they are ever doing, we
may afford to speak of little faults of manner.
Let us look more at the hearts of people. I really
think we have had so many pleasant ones about us,
that we are not self-sacrificing, but really selfish ;
not ready enough to lend a helping-hand and ready
ear, to those less favored than ourselves. I re-
member the busy hands and heads, and that we
cannot do all things.
Hoping to see you before long, and that your
burdens are light—that your father's ways tend
toward rest, remembering that the light of day is
needed to work well, I bid you farewell."
66
TO ALL
“.. I never yet found a man right in all
things; neither a woman. These remarks are for
the thought of my dear unmarried daughters, who
have come up in their own way pretty much, and I
am jealous lest their lovers may mislead them ; so
prone are girls to become possessed of the absurd
notion that it is a wife's duty to submit even to the
waywardness of her husband. God forbid that
our free children should fall into such an error !
“You will have my love through every change.
Grant me admiration too. I stand in need of all
the strength you can spare, for I am very sensible
of my own shortcomings. Let us dispense to each
other such as we have,

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Visits to Cambridge and Salem
“I hope you can read what I have so hastily
written with Hepworth's old quill, mine having
gone to Salem.
Your father is a splendid pen
maker. I am indebted to his talent for every
idea
that comes into my head.”
TO HER SISTER SUSAN.
“ ist mo. ist, 1860.
“A Happy New Year to thee is all I can do.
I'm under limits now, but if I should get up in the
world, as I hope to for the sake of others, I shall
remember that I have fallen short at this time.
One thing I have the pleasure of saying, which is
that I'm not in need of anything, having enough
to eat and something to wear, and, if it is not ele-
gant, it is consistent throughout. No one garment
better than another. In that respect I certainly
outdo all my neighbors.”
وو
TO LUCY.
About 1860.
“Let us begin a new life, my dear Lucy ; saving
our pennies to make the pot boil and not wasting
in trifles. I hold to the right of indulging, to a
certain very limited extent, (with our present want
of means) in heart pleasures, for I work and live
for the past, present and future. I should mourn
to let the past go, with all that was so beautiful and
dear to us; therefore, let us cherish the remem-
brance, and make ourselves as happy as possible
under adverse circumstances. I think it is worth

282
[1859-
Abby bopper Gibbons
living and striving for-your dear companionship,
my precious daughters——there are none like unto
you in your father's and mother's estimation.
Truly, you are a strength and hope. Life's best
blessings on you all!”
TO MISS THAYER.
pet lamb '*
<
“ New York, 2/28, '60.
After I left the cars
I came home.
Imagine the desolateness of the whole second
story! and, upon entering the fold, to find my
gone, was the drop too much.
“I took comfort and then a broom, (which Julia
immediately possessed herself of,) and we together
lost no time in putting things in their places.
Evening came, and we listened at every ring, until
the telegraph announced the joyful tidings of
"All's well.' It said, too, the pillows were used.
Ah, William, my dear, why should I not have my
own way, when it is the best way? Am I not a
mother and do I not know what is good for an ob-
streperous child?
"I cannot say that I was pleased to hear of the
sitting at table that same night. It seemed to me
that he needed my strong will at that moment.
Certainly, I should have pressed him to persecu-
tion to lay him down to sleep,' and I beg of you
not to spoil my child but rather encourage him to
persevere in all good ways. Give my love to him
warm from the heart. ."
* Mr. Thayer had been ill at Mrs. Gibbons's house seven
weeks,
.

1861]
283
Visits to Cambridge and Salem
TO LUCY.
“ New-York, 7th mo. 25, 1860.
“There is so much to mend in thy declining
wardrobe, that it is quite impossible to get the
trunk off before to-morrow. I am sure thy cousin
Lue will not let thee suffer for want of a pocket-
handkerchief or a pin ; therefore I feel compara-
tive quiet as to thy getting on without it. I should
suggest that, in thy movements, thee should con-
sult thy Aunt Anna. When I was over twenty, I
found the advice of older persons worth heeding."
TO SALLY.
“I am depending on thee for a deal of comfort
and support under all trials; therefore, come home
with a strong will to move in the right direction.
The work planned, or planning, for the winter will
keep us all busy; and, while I lament the necessity
of living under a pot-and-kettle dispensation, as it
seems to be the life just now allotted to us,
I
to make the best, and certainly the most of it."
mean
TO W. S. THAYER.
66
“ New-York, July, 22nd, 1861.
My pet 'lamb,' doubly dear since thou hast
strayed so far away, how long and anxiously we
look for the glad tidings that thou art safely at thy
post, improved in health, and in such spirits as
thou art ever blessed with. Eagerly did we seize
upon John's letter, and soon we spread the news
of thy prosperous voyage to all who hold thee dear.

284
(1859–61
Abby bopper Gibbons
66
"How we tried to look happy when thou left us,
and how quietly and sadly we returned home,
thinking that months must pass before we could
hear thy voice, or look upon the like of thee again!
Carter, God bless him ! is kind and comes to us
quite often, which is evidence that he misses thee.
We dwell with delight on the never-ceasing honors
showered on thee by the good and great, and say
thee deserves them all. Fortunate man ! wherever
thou art found, friends cluster, and are ready to
take thee to their hearts and home. Mayst thou
find such all along thy pathway !"

CHAPTER X VIII.
1861.
WILLIE'S MEMOIR.
FROM LUTHER R. MARSH.
"I
“ New-York, Nov. 12th., 1861.
AM exceedingly obliged to you for the touch-
ing memorial of Willie, which you sent me ;
and am glad, indeed, that a knowledge of
him is thus embalmed in something more perma-
nent than our vanishing memories.
“Why should we-why should you even,-regret
the early transplanting from the trials, disappoint-
ments and temptations of our world, to the surety
of another, of a character so pure, translucent, and
guileless, as not to require the discipline which is
necessary to most of our twisted natures ?
“ I should have been pleased to have known that
such a memoir was in contemplation, and contrib-
uted my testimony to his sweetness of character,
his inexorable integrity, his lofty aspirations, and
his intellectual qualities, entitling him to the reali-
zation of his hopes
...
FROM MRS. ELIZA H. SCHUYLER.
“Dobbs Ferry, Nov. 19, 1861.
After writing thus far last night, I
was stopped in looking over the memorial, and sat
285

286
[1861
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up to read it through. The loveliness and clear
truthfulness of your dear son are given by these
extracts so faithfully, that I am glad you have given
to those who did not know him, the pleasure of
thinking of him. He is and is using those rare
gifts in some other part of our Father's Home, for
the good of those less pure and elevated. Who
can understand his joy ? Only you who loved him
here, and knew best the sources of his happiness.
It is a great possession to have one whom we un-
derstand in the spirit, in our future world. We
turn our thoughts and heart there day by day. I
know from my own dear friend, whom I follow.
How much more when a part of ourselves is draw-
ing us to itself !
FROM MRS. SEDGWICK.
“It has been delightful to have him brought so
freshly again to my mind, just as I knew him, just
as I have seen him, both here and in his own home.
He was a noble, lovely, gifted youth ; one of those
who, having "lived a short time fulfilled a long
time.' He lived long enough to endow you all
with heavenly riches, of which, nothing can de-
prive you-to make you feel that the memory of
such a son and brother, is more precious than the
living existence of any one inferior to him. He
lived long enough also to make himself felt by
others, for their good, as comparatively few can
do, even in the course of a long life. And so, per-
petually mourning, you are perpetually comforted ;
in your saddest moments, you are not without

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Willie's memoir
gladness; in your very sorrowing, there is some
joy.”
TO JULIA.
66
Washington, 11/28, '61.
“The Sanitary Commission can do what others
cannot. They visit the Camps, &c., &c., and no
doubt, in many ways, add to the comfort of the
soldiers; but we are told there is a deal of suffer-
ing. There is an encampment quite near us and
we often pass that way. Poor fellows! they will
drink, and for it are punished by having to stand
on barrels twelve hours for each offence, and if
they refuse to tell where they got the drink, they
have another twelve hours. They fall off some-
times-accidentally,—they say, but the supposition
is that they incline to a change of position.
“Do not worry, Julia, we take good care of our-
selves, and I daily wish for thee to see and know
what comfort it is to talk to the poor fellows."
FROM MRS. MARY L. STEARNS TO MRS. GIBBONS.
66
'Medford, Nov, 28th, 1861.
In looking over these pages, I am led
to think how Willie would have thrown all that
enthusiasm and vigor of nature, into this present
conflict of civilization with barbarism. How he
would have gloried in dying for Freedom, reckon-
ing his life as naught compared with the divine
principle for which he was contending. Somewhere
that immortal energy is at work, and we shall see

288
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Elbby bopper Gibbons
at last, that (as the young hero, Putnam, said to his
mother), 'Death is only a step on, in life.'
“I am very much interested in your present
movement. I have thought, ever since nurses were
wanted, that you must—if you had one spark of
your noble father's faith, 'feel a call to Washing-
ton,' and obey it. I envy you. I envy Sally; and
could cry out : 'Give me back my youth,' that I
might take part in your blessed mission. I have
such a recoiling from the sufferings that war en-
tails, that it would be an immense relief to me
to assuage them, even in the small measure of an
humble hospital nurse's service.”
FROM MRS. RALPH WALDO EMERSON.
Concord, Dec., 1861.
"... Ill health is my only apology for hav-
ing so long delayed to acknowledge your friendli-
ness. In reading the memoir of such a life as that
of your William, my joy exceeds even my sym-
pathy with his bereaved friends, great as you must
know it would be : for have not I an only son ? A
noble and most lovely life ! but it is not really
gone. In your hearts and in your hope, as well as
in his consciousness, your son's existence is real
and eternal. He is yours and perhaps with you as
truly as when his being was manifest to the senses.
“Yet I do not the less sorrow with you, that you
see his face and hear his voice no more; and that
the world as well as his family, is deprived of the
benefit and happiness his remaining in this life
could not have failed to give. I well know how

1861]
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Willie's Aemoir
bitterly you must still feel your loss, yet I doubt
not that in the Eternal year, the happiness taken
away will be restored seven-fold-happiness in-
creased by the very event you now deplore.‘God
takes nothing from his children, but in order that
he may give them something better.' It seems
hard to wait, but the blessing will come. Forgive
me, if in my sympathy I suggest as new, consider-
ations long familiar. They may be interesting to
you as sympathy."

CHAPTER XIX.
1861.
OUTBREAK OF THE WAR.
WILLIAM LLOYD GARRISON TO MR. GIBBONS.
66
1
“Boston, April 28, 1861.
AM much obliged to you for your advisory
and interesting letter, received yesterday.
You will see by an official notice in the
Standard and Liberator, that the Executive Com-
mittee of the American Anti-Slavery Society have
deemed it expedient to postpone the Anniversary
in May until a more suitable period. Heaven grant
there may be no occasion for holding another, un-
less to celebrate the jubilee! For the present, at
least, the abolitionists are justified in suspending
their usual operations.
“The civil war now raging in the land, is, on
the part of the Administration, technically and
ostensibly to defend the Stars and Stripes,' and
maintain the government against conspirators and
traitors; but it is really a struggle between the
free and the slave states—i.e., between freedom
and slavery-between free institutions and slave
institutions --between the ideas of the nineteenth
and those of the twelfth century.
All the slave
290

1861]
291
Outbreak of the War
states make common cause with each other, the
border ones being the most dangerous and detest-
able of them all. The Cabinet ought never, for
one moment, to have recognized neutrality on the
part of Virginia and Maryland, except as arrant
disloyalty. It is manifest that the sentiment of
the North is far ahead of the action of the Cabinet,
and demands more vigorous measures-not acting
merely on the defensive in trying to save the Capi-
tal, but carrying the conflict southward with irre-
sistible energy.
“You may well be astonished at the almost
miraculous change which, in the course of a single
fortnight, has taken place in the feelings and pur-
poses of all classes in your city, (as it has through-
out the North,) in relation to the South. That
change you describe in a very amusing and graphic
manner, in your sketch of the 'Billy Wilson's
Men,' whose ferocious desperation, Divine Justice
seems to be concentrating into a flaming thunder-
bolt, to hurl at the heads and homes of Southern
oppressors, by whom they have hitherto been con-
trolled and directed against the cause of liberty.
“So tremendous and wholly unexpected to the
slave oligarchy are the military gatherings of the
North for the preservation of the Union, that I am
inclined now to think that the South will no longer
make any offensive assaults, in which case the
present Northern furore may as suddenly go down
as it has been aroused-leaving the spirit of 'com-
promise' and 'conciliation'to come in, and reduce
the North to a worse submission than she has ever

292
[1861
Ebby Thopper Gibbons
yet evinced. The war, in itself, presents some
paradoxical aspects.
.
FROM SARAH H. PALMER.
66
Philadelphia, 5 mo. 5, 1861.
Quakers are drilling, contrary to all the peace
principles of the Sect; indeed, from all appearances
we may suppose their hopes are based on war.
I 'm opposed to war—to cutting down men like
grass—but if ever war was holy, this one, in favor
of the most oppressed, most forbearing, most af-
flicted, down-trodden, insulted part of humanity,
is a holy war. But I am hoping that the weak,
sumptuous, sickly, clamorous, selfish, traitorous
South will be frightened (as I think they are now,
in a measure) into subjection. There is one man,
the son of the good, great martyr of the age, whom
I wish to have accomplish the work his father be-
gan.
“I do not think I am a saint-I never did-al-
though I do mount the seat of condemnation. I
always 'speak as one' not having attained.''
.
TO W. S. THAYER, IN EGYPT.
66
Washington, Dec. 15, 1861.
Thou wilt be surprised to hear that
Sally and myself are at Washington. I wished
much to visit the hospitals, to learn how we could
best help the poor sick soldiers, of whom there are
a great many. The girls had been making shirts,
drawers, havelocks, and dear knows what, all the

1861]
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Outbreak of the War
summer and autumn, and we had packed box after
box and sent on, and I concluded it would be a
good plan to learn how they were appropriated.
So here I am for that purpose.
We have visited
several hospitals and have assisted in nursing, to
some extent. This week Sally will accompany me
to Falls Church, about eight miles from Fairfax,
where we shall remain until we establish a com-
fortable state of things at the hospital there.
“ The poor fellows are in a destitute condition.
About fifty-nine sick and attended solely by men
nurses.
I do not find fault with such an arrange-
ment, but I hold that women know better how to
take care of the sick, in the way of home comfort,
than men.
I think, too, they are more skilful in
preparing food. So we shall divide the labour. It
is a lonely, forlorn place, and because it is so,
and because they cannot procure respectable help,
we have decided to serve them for awhile.
“I have been writing with a miserable steel pen,
which not only cramped my writing, but used up
my wits. So thanks to this quill, which puts me
in the way of free intercourse.
There is
no greater treat for us all (us Christian Socialists)
than to sit down in our middle parlour and hear
thy letters read aloud. John drinks to the 'Lamb
of his boz' (bosom) and says 'How I do miss
Thayer !' 'Lord, if I could take him in my arms,
and give him a kiss !' Carter pays thee the high-
est compliment by saying his room is the loneliest
place in the world. The consequence is, we see a
great deal more of him than we used to. He often

294
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Abby bopper Gibbons
comes up and plays solitaire ; which, strange as it
may seem, is a very exciting game to us all. I
looked on so long that I too became infatuated,
and am found at it for hours of an evening.
“Carter reads to us delightfully ; sometimes
from the Life of Trust, lent us, thee remembers,
by Mrs. Leroy ; sometimes poetry, and lately Doc-
tor Walker's Sermons, which have been printed in a
neat volume. They are excellent. I shall try to
send them to thee.
“We were regaled day before yesterday by the
reading of thy letter to Mr. Seward. Mr. Baker
says that Mr. Seward told him thine was the best
appointment that had been made. When thee
writes to me again, do say something specially nice
of Seward, for it will give me a deal of pleasure to
tell Baker, who adores him.
We all wish thee was here. With thee, all
things would be tolerable. Without thee, I feel
free to say that Washington is about the dirtiest,
most God-forsaken hole in the universe. Selfishness
reigns supreme. We have attended some of the
sittings of the Senate and House. The latter is
a perfect bedlam, the former more dignified.
Hale is very kind to us; so is Sedgwick, and we
know some members of the House. Mr. Hill and
Mr. Brown called a few days since, and took us a
delightful drive to Hunter's Point and Munson's
Hill, bringing up at Falls Church, where we found
so many very sick that we are moved to go di-
rectly to help them. More men die than ought
to.
66
>

CHAPTER XX.
1861-1862.
FALLS CHURCH AND WINCHESTER.
THREE HUNDRED THOUSAND MORE.*
We are coming, Father Abraham, three hundred thousand
more,
From Mississippi's winding stream and from New England's
shore ;
We leave our ploughs and workshops, our wives and children
dear,
With hearts too full for utterance, with but a silent tear;
We dare not look behind us, but steadfastly before :
We are coming, Father Abraham, three hundred thousand
more !
If you look across the hill-tops that meet the northern sky,
Long moving lines of rising dust your vision may descry;
And now the wind, an instant, tears the cloudy veil aside,
And floats aloft our spangled flag in glory and in pride,
And bayonets in the sunlight gleam, and bands brave music
pour :
We are coming, Father Abraham, three hundred thousand
more!
Written by Mr. Gibbons on the occasi of President
Lincoln's calling for three hundred thousand volunteers to
join the army, in July, 1862.
295

296
(1861-
Abby bopper Gibbons
If you look all up our valleys where the growing harvests
shine,
You may see our sturdy farmer boys fast forming into line;
And children from their mother's knees are pulling at the
weeds,
And learning how to reap and sow against their country's
needs;
And a farewell group stands weeping at every cottage door :
We are coming, Father Abraham, three hundred thousand
more !
You have called us, and we're coming, by Richmond's bloody
tide
To lay us down, for Freedom's sake, our brothers' bones
beside,
Or from foul treason's savage grasp to wrench the murderous
blade,
And in the face of foreign foes its fragments to parade.
Six hundred thousand loyal men and true have gone before :
We are coming, Father Abraham, three hundred thousand
more !
JAMES S. GIBBONS.
July, 1862.
WAR JOURNAL
W
E left home Eleventh Mo. 24th, 1861.
. when we arrived in Washington,
it was dark, and no one was at the Sta-
tion to meet us. We could see no sidewalk, and
found ourselves continually running into teams of
one kind or another, whose drivers called out, in
a warning voice : “Lady, lady,” thereby causing
us to turn about and walk into others. We found
Mrs. Fales in the act of supplying three Govern-
ment teamsters with sandwiches, stockings, &c.

1862]
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Falls Church and Winchester
adding this parting injunction : "Re-mem-ber
your Cre-a-tor," each syllable sounding as if shot
from a giant Columbiad. From nine to three next
day we were engaged in visiting the hospitals. A
word of sympathy brought tears to the eyes of
many. One poor fellow had his leg shattered
while serving in the Rhode Island Battery, and
had been on his back six weeks; one had his leg
shot off on picket duty ; two were shot in the face,
and almost all in the first hospital were suffering
from wounds more or less severe. It is very sad
to see men so broken down by suffering. There
are many cases of typhoid fever and some of con-
sumption. One fine looking fellow had just died
and we were glad to see how nicely he had been
cared for.
We visited the School House Hospital, which is
used for surgical cases--mainly amputations-
where limbs were uncovered to show how they
were doing
The Patent Office Hospital was next in order,
and the neighboring Camps ; and to-day-12th mo.
3d., Doctor Breed brought his buggy, and I ac-
companied him to the “ Columbia," a model Hos-
pital, and we made a thorough inspection of every
department; the store room, especially, which was
beautifully supplied with stores, and everything in
use is furnished by the Government. We saw the
Surgeon, to whom we talked freely, and the good
New England nurses. Every room is in the best
possible condition. I accompanied them through
the wards with great satisfaction; saw the wounds

298
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Abby bopper Gibbons
dressed and marvelled at the patience of the men,
under great privations and among strangers.
We made our way to the Camp of the New Jer-
sey Regiment, but in a limited manner, as our
escort had an appointment.
We next took the Regimental Hospitals, a mile
distant from the Capitol. First, the New York
Fifteenth, which is well cared for and has a great
many tents. Sat down and became much interested
in what the soldiers had to say. Our bags being
well filled, we had the pleasure of giving a home
made cake to the poor fellows.
I sat with the Chaplain, examined his books and
little conveniences, by his invitation ; talked about
his home and soon found he was the son of Doctor
Alfred Post of New-York City. I offered him a
cake and told him I was sure it would prove
acceptable. He took it and said it was most
grateful.
As I was coming away, he asked me to call upon
his mother when I returned home ; "it would
make her so happy if you will only tell her,” said
he, “what you seem to think and believe about me.
Tell her I have many comforts here and think I
am useful."
The soldiers like him. We left stockings, and
did what we thought would contribute most to their
comfort; passing on to the Fiftieth, Colonel Stew-
art's Regiment. Here we found great suffering.
There were thirty men in an old building ; no
sheets, and no woman to nurse or wash clothing.
We made our visit very thorough, and left the pa-
وو

1862]
299
Falls Church and Winchester
tients far happier than we found them. We had a
wholesome cake for each of the forlorn sick, and
some stockings. Bought milk for some who were
longing for it, with not a penny to buy any. Women
come round daily with cans of milk, and those who
have the means are greatly refreshed by it.
When I said, “I wish you had a nurse to prepare
food suited to your conditions," a boy of sixteen
said, “One of our mothers would do more to make
us well than all the Doctors.” That is true, for many
suffer from the want of nutritious diet, which does
more toward building up than medicine.
Dr. Mary Walker, a very little woman, in Bloomer
costume, presides over the Indiana Hospital. She
is a character. She has a keen eye, a cheerful man-
ner, and the patients believe in her. Mrs. Bigelow
is on duty each day from 6 A.M. to prepare break-
fast for them, etc.
Doctor Douglas called on Sunday evening and
gave us a very satisfactory two hours. To him I
commended the N. Y. Fiftieth, and, while it is not
on his beat, he said he would give it his special at-
tention. In this Hospital, there are no pillows, but
we are glad to hear the want will soon be supplied.
I often wish for our friend, Dr. Sewall, with
whom to confer in cases of camp fever. I do not
like the treatment, which seems severe. The men
die in a few days after leaving camp. How I pity
them when they first come in ! So utterly wretched,
and so sure to be prostrated by the treatment they
are subjected to ! They are bathed, combed, and
comforted by kind words and diet such as is ac-

300
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Abby bopper Gibbons
ceptable. The Doctor is a good man and popular
with his men, having accompanied them from their
native State, and means well.
But to return to Mrs. Bigelow, who is near to an
angel in her ministering to the way-worn and weary
soldier! She proves to be a niece of Dr. Robert
Moore, a devoted friend of my father. She has
kindness, goodness, and great endurance.
I cannot give the half of our experiences, for
want of time, and there is much that can never be
told of the passing occurrences of each day, and
of interest only to the sick and myself. I entreat
you to pay no regard to the wants here ; your daily
duties at home are enough. There are those who
have time and means to do the needful, and have
the will. Let them knit, knit, knit, and let it be
stockings. Illness comes from cold feet, and there
are hundreds who have either no stockings at all, or
such as have been worn a month or more.
We value the great amount of good done by the
Sanitary Commission. If all were such men as Dr.
J. H. Douglas, the good would be incalculable. He
knows how to approach men and women, is a good
worker, and commands the respect of all with
whom he is associated.
Dec. Ist, 1861.-We accepted an invitation to
drive to Falls Church, ten miles distant from Wash-
ington ; a point of interest as the little church where
Washington was married. We found a school-
house close by, occupied as a Hospital. I made
my way through, while the rest of the party visited
the Church. As I entered, a young man, whose

1862]
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Falls Church and Winchester
face was flushed with fever, looked at me intently,
and said : “ Come and take care of me; you can
save me if you will." I was made to feel these
words, and, providentially, I may say, the invita-
tion to drive was repeated next day, when we took
the same direction.
Upon reaching the Hospital, I enquired of the
Surgeon if we might give service. "You can if
you will," was the reply. I said little, and went at
once in pursuit of quarters for myself and daugh-
ter. I engaged a room in a house adjoining the
Hospital. Rebels as they were, and the coarsest of
their kind, we were permitted to have an attic
room, the only equipments being a bed and table,
and an old rusty, worn, sheet iron stove, with a long
pipe leading to a hole in the wall. The first night,
the wind howled and down came pipe and all, with
a crash.
I said to Sally, How does thee feel?"
She answered, “As if I had passed the night in a
vast howling wilderness."
The following day, we entered upon a cleaning
process, and it was not long before the effect of
well-prepared diet, and needed bathing, produced
useful results. Not a woman had crossed the
threshold, for there was not a loyal woman near.
Six dead were in a tent adjoining, and the same
evening, with music of fife and drum were taken
to their final resting place.
The young man whom we found delirious and
very ill, improved from day to day, and as soon as
it was safe, was taken home by his father, to whom
I had written of his critical condition. Poor Conk-

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lin was lifted from his pallet of straw, saturated as
it was by a shocking bed-sore, and after a thorough
cleansing by one of his comrades, and change of
clothing, was placed on a fresh, clean bed, thank-
ful for the comfort it gave him, but so feeble that
we were obliged to feed him with a spoon.
Here we were, outside the Union lines, when
Colonel Gore, of the 22d Mass. Regiment two miles
distant, called with one of his Staff (Lieut. Col.
Griswold) to offer us protection in case of danger.
The change and marked improvement of our
patients from day to day was very encouraging.
The Surgeon was a listless, unprincipled man, and
turned aside good-naturedly, leaving us to our own
way of relief. Poor fellows ! they were loud and
long in their expressions of gratitude, and gave us
oft-repeated assurances that, but for us, they would
have died. And so it seemed, for great had been
the neglect and they were sinking for the want of
nutritious and palatable food. Sally often read to
the convalescents, who were attentive and eager
listeners. She took many stitches, by way of pro-
tecting throats and chests to keep out the cold
winds.
They were considerate one of another, and their
tranquillity and resignation to their many priva-
tions, were worthy of all praise.
Many came with grievances, for advice; the
impositions which had been practised upon them
were beyond patient endurance. These poor men
made up a sum of forty-two dollars, to pay for a
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Falls Church and Winchester
Quartermaster, who sent a miserable affair, for
which he never paid half. Not a single lid to pot
or boiler, and not near all the conveniences belong-
ing to a stove.
Fifteen dollars were stolen from another; and,
from a dying man, a watch, which he requested
might be sent to a widowed mother.
Our patients were all convalescing when word
came from Mr. Seward that we were needed at
Winchester. We left our sick in charge of their
comrades who were worthy of the trust, aided by a
supply of stores placed in the hands of faithful
Jessie May, a devoted nurse ; and thus their com-
fort was secured.
WINCHESTER, January, 1862.-At the suggestion
of Hon. W. H. Seward that we should go to Win-
chester where we were much needed, thither we
went after the first battle.
Leaving Washington for the Relay House, we
took the Baltimore & Ohio train for Sandy Hook.
There we partook of such a repast as Sally turned
from, to look upon an egg as the only clean thing.
I was not disposed to investigate, while health and
strength called for nutritious food. Such confu-
sion ! No one could tell when there would be a
train to Winchester.
Here we met the wife and son of Commander
Craven, who were summoned to the eldest son, ill
of typhoid fever. We made one party and one in-
terest, and finding it important that Mrs. Craven
should reach her journey's end as soon as possible,
I ventured to approach an officer who was in a side

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room, and had the appearance of being the only
man who could possibly hold power.
He had a
speaking face, which told me he was the staff on
which to lean.
“We are on our way to Winchester, whither we
go to take charge of the sick and wounded," said
I. “A large supply of stores are detained at the
Relay House, although promised to come as freight
by the Conductor of the Baltimore & Ohio R. R.
I have a friend who is in haste to reach her sick
son. Will you give us a helping hand? and will
you see that our trunks go with us?”
Said officer, whom I found to be Captain Beck-
with, of General Banks' Staff, (all honor to the
kindhearted man!) was besieged by an anxious
crowd for the same privilege.
“I can do nothing for you," said he sternly.
I did not lose faith in him, for I saw by the light
in his eyes that he had kindness of heart; and I
left the office. It was not long before he ap-
proached me and said in a whisper, “Soon the
train will be here and I will see that you and your
friends are seated, and your trunks put on board."
At length the train appeared, and after much
delay we moved toward Winchester. In a car,
crowded to its utmost capacity, weary soldiers
were sitting or standing wherever space permitted.
We had thirty-one miles to travel. Passing through
Harper's Ferry the soldiers sang " John Brown,"
which brought tears to many eyes, so plaintively
they repeated the words over and over again.
The road was in wretched condition and we

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Falls Church and Wincbester
were seven hours on the way. The engine scarcely
moved at all and only by the aid of passengers,
who labored hard to keep the train in motion.
At times, there was but one track.
Midnight found us at Winchester. The station
faced the Union Hospital, afterwards called “the
Slaughter House," because of surgical operations
unskilfully performed. Many poor fellows were
the victims of Surgeons-so called—brutalized by
liquor. It was said by one who had skill and
experience, that many might have been saved, life
and limb.
That night, so full of horror, can never be for-
gotten. The Hospital Watchman moved back
and forth, a dim light shining from every window,
the lines of sick and wounded on either side
of the long wards told of terrible suffering. Fur-
ther along the dimly lighted streets, we passed
rows of coffins filled with the dead, reminding us
that near and dear ones were yet to know the
sorrow that awaited them.
Finally, we reached Taylor's Hotel, kept by
rebels, and having few comforts for loyal people.
We passed the night in a forlorn bed, tired and
hungry, and, next morning, sought and found
lodging with Mr. and Mrs. Dooley. The kind
hostess placed a bed in her parlor, and there we
rested for the day and night, and on the following
morning, set out on our mission.
We found at the “Seminary Hospital” Dr. Gall,
a German Surgeon, who put us in charge of a
ward, having the most seriously wounded patients
20

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an
and the very sick. One of the first to interest me,
was a young man far gone in consumption. He
had suffered long from camp fever, which had
left him in a very feeble condition, and his lungs
became the seat of disease.
On my second visit, he told me he had but a
little while to live, and put into my hand letters
from a young lady to whom he was engaged ; and
bade me when all was over, to write of his sick-
ness and death and enclose them with his last mes-
sages. This I did promptly. We attended the
funeral, placing a few flowers on the coffin, for
the sake of friends at home.
In another ward was a young man of education
and refinement, suffering from amputation
cruelly performed, the bone protruding several
inches ; and he bearing the agony consequent
upon such treatment, with patience and resigna-
tion such as no words can describe. He had
friends and a happy home, the wealth of family
affection, and yet was doomed to die. There was
this consolation. No mother or sister could be
more tenderly devoted to him than was Anna
Jackson of Winchester.
His remains were conveyed to his home at
Oberlin, and in a printed testimonial of his useful
and well-spent life, was added an account of his
funeral, which was attended by more than two
thousand people. We devoted ourselves to this
ward and found enough to do, special cases being
put in our charge.
The Surgeon said to us one morning : " Here

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Falls Cburcb and Winchester
is a poor boy who must be built up by your con-
stant care. I must take his arm off at the shoulder
joint, if I can save his life at all.” We obeyed
the order and gave him generously of beef-tea,
brandy and egg-nogg, when, at the end of the
week, Dr. Gall told us he had gained to admira-
tion and he should operate at twelve o'clock that
day.
We were absent at the time and glad to be
spared.
Two hours after, the Surgeon sent a messenger
in great haste, to say the poor boy had but a short
time to live. We hastened to him and found Dr.
Gall had been called to an amputation at the
"Union Hospital." He left strict orders, which
we regarded to the letter. At given intervals, he
partook of beef-tea and brandy, through a glass
tube. He was yet on the operating table. How
anxiously we watched and waited the danger of
placing him on a couch!
The next day, his afflicted father came, but the
son was not to know it. He was allowed to see
him through the crack of a door only, as the Sur-
geon assured us that the least excitement would
take the little life he seemed to have.
Days and nights passed and he was pronounced
as doing well ; he might be allowed to see his
father upon a promise not to cry. It was a hard
struggle, but they met ; no word was spoken, each
looked at the other, until the son closed his eyes
to be able to keep his promise.
The details of life at Winchester would fill many

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pages.
There were incidents worthy of note, and
among them the arrival of the Tenth Maine, a
regiment numbering one thousand fine men above
the average height. They were stationed near
the “Academy Hospital," where we gave daily
service, and where there was much suffering.
Very touching was the melody of Chaplain Quint,
who passed slowly up and down the wards, while
making ready for the night. It was like a prayer
by the bedside-so tender and soothing in effect.
Every moment that can be spared from the
wounded, is just now given to the sick of General
Blenker's Division. A son of Rubens Peale is the
Surgeon in charge. He is a bright good-looking
man, young and inexperienced, and I am helping
him for a time, at the request, and to relieve, Post
Surgeon Robinson. Dr. Peale is skilled in his
profession, but has had no experience in organiz-
ing and equipping, and is glad of assistance.
Fortunately, this day April 26, '62, our boxes
have arrived, by the kindness of Colonel Beckwith.
They were detained on account of the suffering of
the troops for want of food. No hospital stores
are allowed until relief comes to them.
General Shields is in town; he makes his home
with relatives, the Fauntleroys, and near the
"Academy Hospital”—a beautiful home, the gar-
den surrounded with a rich hedge of lilacs, in full
bloom. The house is on a high hill, commanding
a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here are
many sick and wounded and we are in daily at-
tendance. One poor fellow said to me: “Oh

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Falls Churcb and Wincbester
how I longed for you this morning! It is so
dreary when no ladies are here.” He is patient
and resigned, talked of his friends and family. I
thought I might safely leave him, as he promised
to go to sleep, and, in the morning, I found him
gone.
Post-Surgeon Robinson and Doctor Gilbert met
General Shields at the “Union Hospital” to-day
and dressed his arm. They pronounced it as do-
ing well. Afterwards, the general looked at every
wound and amputation, and, upon investigating a
special case, said: “If I can find out who ampu-
tated that leg, I'll hang him." Dr. B is to be
court-martialled, and Doctor Gall, a German sur-
geon of skill and experience, has succeeded him.
He
may be able to save a few, and is doing his best.
It is worthy of record that nine hogsheads of
Sauerkraut (that panacea for all ills, to those of
the German persuasion) have been distributed
among General Blenker's men, the past few days.
Doctor Robinson sent dried fruits and other arti-
cles of diet, which we prepared and gave to the
patients, who require to be well fed because of the
incessant drain from their wounds. The wards
are well ventilated, day and night, and everything
is kept clean. Sally reads to the patients the news
of each day, and from books, as well, which gives
relief to otherwise tedious hours.
Mrs. Craven will lose her son, a fine young man
of twenty-five years. I am glad to render her
some service in this desolate place; her husband
commands the “ Tuscarora."

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I lay down my pen to receive Mary Strange,
who makes us frequent visits, and to-day enter-
tained us with an account of the Battle of Win-
chester.
Mary is frantic with joy. She passes her days
and nights in looking after the movements of
rebels, and many a dark deed is brought to light
by her vigilance. Before peep of day, she is heard
in our quarters, with items of news she has gleaned
in the few hours we have been separated. A
stranger or more useful woman is rarely to be
found, or one who so faithfully performs the daily
round of Union duty. It was the testimony of
General Banks that his most valuable information
came to him from colored people.
A venerable looking man, with locks as white
as snow, came immediately after the battle, to
attend his son, who was severely wounded, and
had been at his bedside daily, when he was taken
ill of typhoid fever. I saw him at the “ Academy
Hospital," where he was made as comfortable as
possible, in a room next to the Surgeon's. He
was well attended, but died suddenly, greatly to
the grief of his son who could not be with him.
His family are expected to-night.
Post-Surgeon Robinson comes in to urge our
going to Strasburgh; word has just come that
hundreds of General Shields' men are in tents, ill
with typhoid fever. It is with regret I leave this
town and its beautiful trees, and lovely, good peo-
ple, whom we are accustomed to meet day after
day. Hugh Sidwell and family are excellent and

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Falls Church and Winchester
considered the pillars-so called-of the Society
of Friends. On First Days, they hold a Meeting,
which we like to attend, and there meet Joseph
Jackson and family, and others. John Maroni
was prominent as a teacher and permitted the
School house to be used as a hospital. Friends'
Meeting House was also used, and well filled.
FROM SARAH H. PALMER.
66
2mo. 21, '62.
" Pennsylvania has redeemed herself. I must
mention one fact worthy of note. Samuel Fisher's
old house in Front St., has been used as barracks,
filled with soldiers. One might have expected
a resurrection. The old man would not sell a
piece of iron or steel during the war of 1812.
“S. H. P."
TO MISS THAYER.
“New-York, Feb. 22, 1862.
“Ever dear and darling Sally, listen to my words
and hasten to say that my proposition is hearkened
unto. To Washington, or rather to‘Old Virginny,'
I must go, and that before long. How much I feel
at leaving my beloveds at home, thou canst imagine.
"Here I am, able bodied, and with a will to
nurse the sick of the war. Not that so much, as
being in the midst, and knowing just what is needed
to save them from dying, and seeing the needful
done. I claim to have tact, and, for two months,
was able to move about, offending none.
We were

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not only accepted, but treated with the utmost
kindness and consideration. That we saved human
life, I know, and that our Hospital at Falls Church
is needing us, I learn this day, by a letter from the
Assistant Surgeon.
“Now to the point! Will thee come to stay with
Julia awhile? She longs for thee and she feels so
much about my going that it is a trial to leave her.
She has such warm affections and cares so much
more than I thought she would, for my absence.
Again, she is possessed with the absurd idea that
the typhoid fever will assail me, (of which there is
no fear,) and, altogether, I feel somewhat in a
quandary to know what is right. I have no mis-
givings, if thou canst come and stay awhile. And
then it is time thee was here. So long thou hast
been away that I long to look upon thy dear face
and to hear thy pleasant voice ; above all, to par-
take of thy cheerful spirit, which Julia so much
needs. The angels take care of Lucy, sweet child.
It is easier for her to glide along. Julia and self
cling to each other; Sally, my dear darling Sally,
has been part of myself all winter-immensely use-
ful at Washington, and quite necessary to me.
“I would begin upon my experiences in the
Hospital, but no sheet would take in the begin-
ning even. Poor fellows! I long to stand by.
They so need somebody to lean upon, so down-
hearted and homesick are they.

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Falls Churcb and Wincbester
TO LUCY.
“ Winchester, Va., 4mo. 6th, 1862.
To tell you of our perilous journey
to this place (it was fearful) would be to repeat
what Sally has already written, though she may not
have told you how provoked she was that I was not
more tired. The truth is I was so thankful for our
safety, after the hairbreadth escapes, that I con-
cluded to 'lie down on my pillow and sleep away
there, with a happy and peaceable mind.'
“Thanks to C. W. Dennison for his kindness.
Without him, we should have had quite a long walk
to Taylor's Hotel, and through narrow streets, not
lighted, open cellar doors and very sad sights.
Not very far from the Dépôt we passed the Union
Hotel Hospital, a dim light shone from every win-
dow of the large building, telling us of the sufferings
of poor wounded men. A little further on, we
passed the Dead House, filled with coffins, and two
bodies, last brought, in pine coffins on the pave-
ment.
“While Mr. Dennison protected us, we took
others under our wing. Mrs. Craven begged me
to allow her my address, that she might send for
me in an emergency. To-morrow, I shall try to
find her, as she might not be able to seek me out.
Two other mothers were in search of wounded
sons. I saw both in the Hospital yesterday. A
father came to look for his son, who had had a
limb amputated. I met him next day, in the street;
he stopped me and said ; 'I found my son in the

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churchyard. I am one of those who believe that
he is with me still, and I have received this morning,
intelligence from two daughters in the Spirit world,
that all is well with him.' I was glad he was com-
forted.
“The morning after we reached here, Sally was
so very tired, that I advised her to go to bed, which
she did, while I passed an hour with a wounded
man in a neighboring room ; and talked with wives
in pursuit of husbands, and, whenever I got a
chance, with the slaves, for they are numerous in
this Hotel
“After Sally's sleep of two hours, I waked her
and we went to Dr. Bryant, to whom I had a let-
ter, to ask if he knew of a boarding place. He
sent us to a Mrs. Jackson, a plain Friend ; she
could not accommodate us, so we went on to a
second, third and fourth place, where we were
taken in. We left our traps, and went to the bag-
gage master, to look after our trunks; and finding
all safe, ordered them up at three o'clock, and on
our way back, went into a Hospital filled with
wounded. It was a sad sight, but we soon cheered
and comforted them, by telling them what we came
for and that we should see them every day. The
men said : 'Oh, you are such a blessing to us, for
we get downhearted and homesick. It is an en-
couragement to see ladies coming in.' We went
home, made some jelly for the very feeble patients,
and rested the remainder of the day.
“ To-morrow, we shall pass most of the day at
a new Hospital, which is being put in good con-

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Falls Church and Winchester
dition, and, as the rooms are ready, the wounded
men (such as are able) are being removed. Poor
creatures, how they are tortured !
Limbs are am-
putated that ought not to be, and, in various ways,
they are victimized.
“We can do great good here and our stores are
much needed. When the new Hospitals are in
condition, the badly managed one referred to will
be closed. There are men there who will never
leave it alive, and a great many too. Where we
board, in the next room, there is a Lieutenant,
badly wounded and attended by two of his Regt.
They are very devoted and excellent young
men. We pass a twilight hour with them each
day, and have been able to add to their comfort.
7th day of the month. Yesterday being the
first of the week, we concluded to go to the colored
church. We were the only whites present with the
exception of our hostess, and a soldier of the New-
York Ninth. He came to us after the services
were over, much pleased to find we were his towns-
people. There was a good audience of free and
slave. The preacher, who is known as Bob Robin-
son, pray'd for his people, 'as they were going
through this waste, howling wilderness'; exhorted
them 'not to mumber' (murmur) and asked if they
could not 'give one day to the Lord'; invited all
to come in the evening, when he hoped we should
have a ' Pantecostial shower.'
"In the afternoon, I took a colored woman who
lives opposite, and who offered to be my guide, to
the Court House Hospital ; I found there the Post

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Surgeon, Dr. Robinson, who was very kind to the
men. Three were dying and all very sick. One
tried so hard to tell me where his mother lived,
that I might write to her. I got her name but he
had not the power to tell more.
“The building was being flooded, altho' it was
the Sabbath.' In this case, the better day,
the better deed.' Bucket after bucket of water
was thrown, and the mud poured down the stairs
in torrents. They had been so employed for four
successive days. Mr. Dennison came in to hold
service, but the Surgeon wisely forbade him, say-
ing his men were too sick. He was sensible and
quietly withdrew.
“This room in the lower part of the Court House
is the only one I have yet seen of typhoid. All the
rest are wounded, and horribly wounded, in the
last battle. Their patience is truly wonderful. The
first man it was my fortune to relieve proved to be
a Rebel. He died the next day. There is no bit-
terness of feeling among them when in their low
condition. A Secesh woman, who brought food for
the Rebels, looked upon the wounded Union men
and said: 'I pity them when I see them sick, but
I hate them as I do rattlesnakes when they are
well.'
“After we left the hospital I sought out Mrs.
Craven, who seemed overjoyed to see me, for she
was with Secessionists, and terribly lonely. The
son was a little better, but very sick. Colored
Mary, who was my guide, was at once applied to for
a nurse, and her husband went last night to sit up.

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Falls Church and Winchester
Mary is frantic with joy ; says the Lord
promised what is coming to their people ; that all
things are working right; says she is Union all
over ; that when the last Union man shall pass,
with but a single button on his coat, she will be
found hanging on. She spends her days and nights
looking after Rebels, and brings many a dark deed
to light. Before peep of day yesterday morning
we heard her voice. She had got into the house
and up to the second story, and was tapping at the
door of our host, to tell him of a young man whom
she suspected of being a spy. A slave in the house
had posted Mary, and it was soon known in the
right quarter that this young man was trying to
disguise himself by dyeing his whiskers and hair.
In less than an hour he found himself captured.
“This Mary is half her time in a roar of laugh-
ter. She screams at the top of her voice ; knows
everybody, and everybody knows her. No woman
in this town more faithfully performs her daily
round of Union duty. I went with her to see her
father, mother, and grandmother—the latter over
ninety. Her father's hair is straight, and almost
white with age.
He says he thanks the Lord for
letting him live to see this blessed day. She was
emancipated ; says her master and mistress were
kind, and adds: “Marsa used to say this day would
surely come. I have talked with many free, and
find they love the land of their birth and mean to
stay here. It is the master and slave who must be
separated, for such are their relations that they
cannot dwell together. I shall have much to tell

318
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on this subject when I see you. Last night Mrs.
Craven sent for me in haste ; I went immediately,
found an unfavorable change had taken place, and,
at her solicitation, staid with her. The husband of
my faithful guide was there too. This son of Mrs.
Craven had been taken to the house in his delirium
and knew not how or when. The probability is
that he will live but a very short time.
“I did not think when I left you that I should
pass a night with Rebels, under their roof.
“With love to father and all the rest, believe that
I am with you in spirit each hour of the day and
the waking hours of the night. Tell me how you
are getting along."
FROM SALLY.
"..
“ Winchester, April 6, '62.
This morning mother and I went to
the colored church, where we heard an excellent
prayer and good singing. Though the preacher
did talk about food which was ' applicable' instead
of 'palatable,' his sermon had in it much that was
worth listening to.
"To my great surprise, mother got up and
preached a really good sermon. Short but pithy.
Then the minister rose and commented on what
she had said, giving her high praise. After church
the whole congregation crowded round to speak to
her. She thanked them for all they had done for
our soldiers. One woman had given up her own
bed. Not five minutes ago, two passed with empty

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Falls Churcb and Winchester
baskets on their way home from the hospitals.
They are devoted.
“You see all shades and grades.... A few
look happy, but more woe-begone faces I never
saw than some of them have.”
.
66
TO JULIA.
“Winchester, 4/9, 1862.
"I hope in this far-off place to hear only good
tidings of all my beloveds. Not a line has reached
us since we left Washington, and so irregular have
been the mails, that we can only hope for some
good fortune to bring us intelligence of you.
Our boxes and barrels are not yet here, hav-
ing been detained because of the suffering of the
troops for want of food. No hospital stores are
allowed until they are relieved... You can-
not imagine the shocking condition of everything.
The sufferings of the wounded are beyond descrip-
tion, and those who have courage to bear, must be
grateful for the privilege of relieving them in the
smallest degree.
Sally accompanied me on Second day, and we
were witnesses of a very sad case, which proved
too much for her, the young man having fallen
into the fire after being shot. He was badly
burned, and dying while we were there. She
fainted, and it was only by sitting down several
times in the street that I could get her home.
Passers by on their way to the hospital were kind
and gave her drinks of tea, etc., from dippers. I
gave her whiskey and she went to sleep. A couple
66

320
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of hours restored her.
I did not dream
how much I could endure. Something nerves me
to it and I am thankful.
“I laid down my pen to receive Mary Strange,
whose visits are by no means unfrequent. She has
been entertaining us with accounts of the Battle.
She says she thought for a time the Lord was not
going to answer their prayers, but when the Union
men marched in, her people were wild with joy,
and how the Spirit did pour out! They ran back
and forth calling the Union men brothers—they
cried 'Glory !' ' Praise the Lord !' and no sleep
came to their eyes that night ; and, when the
Union men, and Rebels too, (all the wounded)
were taken to Hospitals, they set right to work
and took them the best food they had. The free,
who took in washing for a living, spent their earn-
ings, and did all they could to comfort and relieve.
This same Mary bought within a few days,
with her own means, twelve pairs of chickens to
make soup for them. She is an immense help to
me, for if she sees me coming out, she is right at
my side and she watches me well. I believe all
the colored people in town know I'm here. I
have had an invitation to meet them in their
church to-night. It is very stormy and the ground
is covered with snow and sleet and I think I shall
postpone the visit.
They are a wide-awake people, and I think
they will make their way anywhere. I see fewer
difficulties in the way since I came, than before.
“10th of the month. A bright and beautiful
66
66

1862]
321
Falls Churcb and Winchester
66
.
morning Ever so many snow birds are before our
window picking up crumbs, reminding me that I
must not sit here long, but gather up some of the
treasures of my trunk, and go to my poor boys.
No day passes but we lose some of them.
To-day (it is now evening) I visited every pa-
tient in the Union Hospital. Many of them are
bright, intelligent men. The condition of the
young man we visited on the day Sally fainted,
was the saddest of all.
It is not necessary
to detail his sufferings and I try not to think about
it. He had graduated at Oberlin and was study-
ing for the ministry, when he entered the Army.
His
poor
father and a near friend were with him
to the last. I was glad for him that such comfort
was not denied, but how agonizing to them !
There is yet another graduate of Oberlin, by
the name of Worcester, who is badly wounded and
very sick beside.
I passed an hour this afternoon with Mrs.
Craven. She is a lovely woman and believes it
among the mercies that we were brought together.
"11th. No train came in yesterday, and who
knows when the next will arrive? I hope you get
our letters. You must rest easy about us, for if
anything unusual occurs, we shall telegraph. That
seems the only sure communication.
“ Mary Strange is at my right hand, to help me
with good things for the Hospital. After we leave
the 'Union,' shall go to the Seminary’Hospital,
where there are 140 wounded men. Our wine
jellies are a first rate blessing to them."
66
21

322
(1861-
Abby bopper Gibbons
TO J. S, G.
Winchester, Va., 4/11, 1862.
“Every thing connected with the mails here is
uncertain ; the telegraphs are sure ; therefore if
there is sickness or other reasons why I should be
at home, I shall depend upon being notified by
telegram. We are doing much service here, and
shall remain during the extremity unless otherwise
ordered by the dear ones at home.
“The night after the Battle, many of the
wounded were left on the bare ground. Fires
were built near others, and when a blanket could
be found, it was thrown over them. Their suffer-
ings were dreadful, and when brought to the Hos-
pital, they were destitute of all comforts there.
Soon, however, the Union people began to feed
them, and the colored people especially were de-
voted and kind, buying delicacies with their own
hard earnings, and giving their personal attention
Their conduct was worthy of all praise.
At present, it is very trying, as the
wounded are being removed to the Seminary Hos-
pital. One poor fellow was nearly gone when he
arrived. The most of them are carried on beds
by four men, while the more able are taken in
waggons. I sent wine jelly for them to take be-
fore setting out, and it gave them strength for the
journey, which is a full mile. They will now have
better care and more comforts. The Seminary
Hospital is under far better discipline, and the
'Union 'will be closed.
as nurses.
66

1862]
323
Falls Oburcb and Winchester
66
We are with a very kind family and have all we
ought to desire. We think and talk of you all and
wish vainly for your words conveyed by letter.
“What a time we had at the Relay House! I
was comparing notes with poor Mrs. Craven. We
think the passage from the Relay House to Win-
chester, will be ever memorable.
“There is no coal in the place—wood very high,
and the light from a solitary candle is all we have
to depend on. We retire early and sleep well;
and we appreciate the blessing.
“Thy A. H. G.
“No train came last evening or to-day.”
TO JULIA.
“ Winchester, Va. 4/21, '62.
“Thy letter of 4/14 was received on the 19th
which is a great improvement and I rejoice that
we are thus brought a little nearer together.
We need very common clothing, for the town is
anything but clean, and a Hospital is not the place
for dress.
“ Every day finds us at the Seminary Hospital,
where are the wounded men. While we visit and
take good things to the others occasionally, our
keenest sympathies are for the wounded, whose
sufferings are intense, and their condition so un-
certain as to incline them to despondency. Poor
souls, how I do pity them ! All my energies are
now devoted to the saving of one young man of
20 years.
The surgeon has been trying to save his
arm, and on 7th day, decided it could not possibly

324
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Abby bopper Gibbons
66
be done. I am now building him up
with essence
of beef, egg nogg, and various other stimulants, to
get him strong enough to bear the operation. He
is a very fine fellow, has been remarkably healthy,
and that, with his youth, is my only hope. At his
request, I have written to his father to come to
him immediately.
“There are about 20 of the wounded ones who,
I think, must die; and many of them, because of
the unskilful and positively ignorant butchery of
men calling themselves surgeons. Oh, it is too
sad, to see fine men sacrificed, whose lives might
have been saved.
A few days since Dr. Gilbert arrived. He is
now Medical Director, in the place of Bryant, who
has advanced with Major General Banks' Division.
Gilbert is, evidently, a man fully competent to the
charge. He called on us this morning, and has
given us a good deal of information that promises
help to our poor men.
“The town is in a commotion, --why, we cannot
tell yet. New regiments have arrived and there is
a great deal of passing on, by waggons. Yester-
day, 120 men were brought in sick, from General
Blenker's Division ; besides fifty, who came in lit-
tle companies. The Academy Hospital, which
opened a few days since, had ninety, and now has
140. There are over 500 sick and wounded in the
town; some occupying miserable rooms. The
Director, however, is working in the best way to
secure a better state of things, and will soon ac-
complish it."

1862]
325
Falls Church and Winchester
TO JOHN HOPPER.
“ Winchester, 4. 27, ’62.
“There is no certainty that our letters from this
place ever reach you, and, as Dr. Gilbert is going
to Washington and offers to mail any for us there,
I avail myself of the opportunity to speak.
“General Shields is now here and yesterday
recognized us most graciously. He was riding
with Dr. Gilbert. He looks careworn and anxious,
and it is said, he is so longing to do something.
His arm is improving. His men have great respect
and admiration for him. I like his face ; it ex-
presses tenderness and kindness. Yesterday, he
visited the Hospitals, spoke to every man, and
made all feel very happy.
“ On 5th day, four of our prisoners returned. I
called to see one of them yesterday, at the earnest
solicitation of his daughter. He told of the
shameful treatment they received, being obliged to
march many miles, and sleep on bare floors, living
upon hard biscuit and poor meat, with occasionally
a cup of coffee. I saw the bread ; it was musty
and hard as a bone. One of their number, a plain
Friend, aged about 57, died. He was a man much
respected, a man of means and good as an angel.
Such is the account given of Job Throckmorton,
known as 'honest Job.' A few days before he
died, he was separated from his companions and
taken to their Rebel Hospital. They were not
allowed to see him afterwards. His son, with a
friend, went yesterday to get his body.

326
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Abby bopper Gibbons
People here suffer many privations; it is a
terrible place to live in. We see a great many
slaves, and I long to run them all off. I have met
a great many in colored families, and some I have
seen, who are still with their masters, but laying
plans of escape for themselves and their little chil-
dren. One poor soul said yesterday : The Lord
has waited a long time, and he ain't going to stand
it any longer.' When I go home, I shall get a pass
for myself, daughter, and servant. You need not
write back on this subject, as on several occasions,
the letters have come to us glued together after
having been opened.
“ It is very trying to the spirit to be so far away,
without certain means of communication ; but,
nevertheless, we try to feel brave about it, trusting
to the telegraph for any certain news, or for any
emergency.
“We have the entire charge of the most severely
wounded-aside from the duties devolving on the
men nurses. They would suffer greatly if we left
them just now, as it is a critical time with some of
them. We try to be patient, but night comes, and
then we are with you, and it keeps me awake.”
66
“ Winchester, Va., April 27, '62.
Here, in the midst of Slavery, and seeing and
conversing (as I do daily) with very many, the uses
of the National Freedmen's Association' become
very apparent. Its work is not yet begun, for it
takes time to devise plans and carry them into
operation. Our people are wide awake, and will

1862]
327
Falls Church and Winchester
know just where to wend their way when once upon
the journey."
“ Winchester, 5/14, 1862.
“We visit the Post Office daily, hoping for some
word, and now a week has passed away without a
line. Bear in mind that weeks and days are very
long to us when from home, and that your silence
unsettles our plans.
“We have been very busy using the contents of
your great box. How kind in Robert and George
Haydock to send such valuable stores! I hope
thou wilt drop in and tell them how useful we have
found all the good things. The gin was a perfect
blessing and flavors our gelatine, serving at the
same time as a most valuable stimulant.
“It is raining very hard and I am waiting for it
to hold up, while Sally has gone with her kettles
well filled to make her usual round. To-morrow,
we shall pass the entire day at the Academy Hos-
pital, where there are over 200 patients, and where
I should be glad to meet you, my Julia and Lucy.
It is splendidly located on a very high hill, over-
looking green fields and beautiful gardens, and, in
the distance, we have the Blue Ridge Mountains,
the whole presenting a grand and picturesque view
of the surrounding country.
“Our wounded men at the Seminary ’are doing
wonderfully well, and one after another going home
—most of them crippled for life. Many of them
are well educated men, full of the spirit of liberty,
and know just what they are fighting for.

328
(1861-
Abby bopper Gibbons
us.
"Tell Uncle John I was delighted that he sent
Archy Moore. It was just the book for Zenophon
Wheeler, a bright, intelligent, earnest young man,
who is wanting something to read all of the time;
and so full of Anti-Slavery, that he seized upon
the book with great delight.
“I am continually surprised to find how familiar
they are with Grandfather's Biography. Friends
have seized upon it, and take great comfort in
reading and talking about it. I mean, the patients
in the hospital seem to know all about grandfather,
and were perfectly delighted to find his kindred in
While our number of wounded men grows
smaller, those with camp fever are greatly on the
increase. Eighteen were brought from Strasburg
on 7th day, thirty on ist day, and the same number
on 2nd day. Very many are sent home as soon as
able.
“Poor fellows ! many are going home to die, and
they know it. I have been working hard to be
able to return to you. We have now a Society,
mainly of Friends, who will begin their work in a
very few days. I hope they may be helped, for in
many cases, they have lost their all, and while
struggling for bread to eat, are ready to divide
their loaf with the sick and wounded. I find
Friends are the only people here who sympathize
with the colored people, and Friends are the only
people in whom the colored people have perfect
trust.
“Mrs. Craven left with her sick son on Second
day. She took with her James Strange, a colored

1862]
329
Falls Church and Wincbester
man, who lives opposite to us. I longed to bear
them company, but could not feel quite ready, for
there seems no one to fill our places exactly. The
Surgeons give us more privileges than others, and
seem to think we know just what to do and when.”
TO J. S. G.
“Winchester, 5/19, 1862.
“We had our one trunk packed ready for Stras-
burg, expecting to leave on Second day morning.
Dr. Francis came in the evening previous, saying a
rumor was afloat that General Banks had fallen
back several miles and it was not safe to go. He
declared that he would send an ambulance for us
the next day at 12, when we must be ready to go
to the Academy Hospital, to make such a visit as
would enable us to inspect his hospital thoroughly.
We decided to go inasmuch as we could not help
ourselves, and at half past five, when the Maine
Ioth appeared on his grounds in dress parade, we
felt richly repaid. The effect on the patients was
such, that I invited the roth to attend the Services
next day at two o'clock. They came, and it was a
rich treat for the brave boys. The music was
grand. The grounds are beautiful and green and
the whole performance imposing and truly mag-
nificent.
' At four o'clock, surgeons and all of us went to
an appointed Meeting of Friends. It was held
in the Methodist Church, Friends' Meeting House
being occupied by soldiers. Samuel M. Janney

330
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Elbby Thopper Gibbons
and a woman Friend held forth. Nothing very re-
markable. We returned to the Academy to tea
and afterwards visited Bob Robinson's family,
where we met a concourse of colored brothers and
sisters. We had a full, free, private conversation
concerning their condition and prospects, which I
am happy to say are hopeful, and that they mean
to enjoy liberty in the larger sense.
"To-morrow we go to Strasburg, leaving here at
eight o'clock. Dr. King, Medical Director, has
come in from there ; says all is safe and implores
us to go; that there are a thousand sick and the
suffering terrible. We go in his two-horse four-
wheeled ambulance, taking our stores. Bedticks,
bedding, etc. will follow in another vehicle. I will
write from Strasburg next."

CHAPTER XXI.
1862.
BANKS' RETREAT FROM STRASBURG.
W
E took an ambulance, a second following
with stores; and, after travelling nine-
teen miles, arrived at Strasburg. Here,
Dr. Lincoln Stone, of Salem, Mass., became our
staff and stay. He was diligent in his efforts to
secure quarters for us. A Rebel woman took us
in finally, but much against her will, and we re-
mained until May 24th, 1862.
We retired that night at ten o'clock, and after
putting out the candle, I took a survey (as is my
custom) of the surrounding country, from both
windows, and soon called Sally's attention to the
Signal lights in the distance. I was thoughtful
about them, but concluded, as we were in commu-
nication with General Banks' headquarters, it was
safe to go to bed and to sleep.
Soon after midnight, a terrific knocking at the
front door below, took me to the hall, where I
found all had assembled. We heard the drums
beating the “long roll,” a sign of danger. The
Colonel of the ist Michigan Reg. had come to
notify Lieut.-Colonel Copeland, that we were “cut
off from everything,"-" completely surrounded."
331

332
(1862
Abby bopper Gibbons
C
“Yes,
To Sally, I said: “Things look serious, but let us
dress, keep quiet, and make the best of our circum-
stances."
While dressing, at just two o'clock, Doctor Blake
entered the room with a lantern, saying, in a kind,
collected tone, “I want you to keep cool and pack ;
be ready at once. I have orders from headquar-
ters to see you safely through.”
Is there danger ?” I enquired.
was Doctor Blake's answer,
we are in
great danger."
I filled a bag with such provisions as we had on
hand-a bottle of Port Wine, another of Brandy,
and a third of Brown Stout, given me by Mrs.
Craven. These proved immensely useful.
At three A. M., we were seated in a strong am-
bulance with four horses, making the best of our
way in the direction of Winchester. Doctor Blake
was much exhausted, having been on the run for
several hours, removing the sick from the hospitals
to army waggons; and he was the more excited,
owing to a recent illness and knowing more of
pending danger than we did ; although we were by
no means insensible to our perilous condition. The
Doctor said: “We are likely to see Richmond be-
fore we do Winchester." I suggested that Sally
and myself should take the seat next the driver,
and that Doctor Blake should stretch out at full
length, and, covered with our shawls, pass for a
sick man, as he really was.
We were fifteen minutes in advance of army wag-
gons loaded with the very sick ; these were fired

1862]
333
Banks' Retreat from Strasburg
upon and several men wounded. Doctor Blake
said, as we were leaving Strasburg, “I'm afraid
of Bushwhackers." I did not look for any such
untoward event, and it was agreed that, if we were
obliged to halt by the way, I should answer all
inquiries.
Soon our horses were seized by the heads.
“What news?” asked our assailant, in a hurried
tone.
“Trouble at Port Royal,” was the answer, and,
according to instructions given in advance, we
drove on at a rapid rate. Cavalry, men running,
and all conceivable things came after.
In a short time, and to our great relief, we found
ourselves in Winchester at 8 A.M. Breakfasted,
and fed our horses. Dr. Salter came in very op-
portunely, upon hearing of our arrival. He told
us it was not safe to tarry—that Post-Surgeon
Robinson had taken his family to Martinsburgh,
and the whole town was in great excitement. The
Maine Tenth had marched, loyal citizens were pre-
paring to leave, and Secessionists were wild with
rejoicing.
We packed as much as we could carry in the
Ambulance and drove away towards Martinsburgh.
On the road, we were overtaken by Dr. Robinson,
who entreated us to go to the United States Hotel,
where we should find his family and the officers'
wives of the ioth Maine. With one exception
these were splendid, brave, noble women.
We remained tranquil through all. Whether it
was my large hope or my Quaker education, I can-

334
[1862
Abby bopper Gibbons
not tell ; but I had a quiet faith that no harm would
come to us. I thought over the course I had taken,
believed we were right while relieving suffering hu-
manity, and could not free myself from the convic-
tion that we should escape serious danger.
We alighted at the U. S. Hotel. Mrs. Robinson
kindly offered us the use of her room, for there
was not another unoccupied. She had two beds
on the floor and eight slept there that night.
Dr. Blake could not be taken in, and left in
search of a resting place. Next morning, I was
out of my room at 5 o'clock, to seek for informa-
tion, and found, at the corner of the street, a num-
ber of men gathered together. I joined them and
we heard cannonading in the direction of Win-
chester. I then went in pursuit of Dr. Blake, and
after looking over the books in several Hotels, I
said, in a voice to be heard, "I am in pursuit of
Dr. Blake."
“You 'll find him at the Railroad Hotel,” said a
stranger. Upon reaching it, he was roused from a
deep sleep and we returned to the “United States
Hotel,” to encounter Mrs. Staubb, an immense
woman, who was in a state of the greatest indigna-
tion. Shaking her fist in my face, she said “You
are abolitionists. I can see it in your faces and I
will not protect you."
I gave her to understand that we were abundantly
able to take care of ourselves.
We ate our breakfast and made ready
for another retreat. At about nine o'clock, there
was a rush of cavalry, waggons and all sorts of

1862]
335
Banks' Retreat from Strasburg
vehicles, whole families, household goods, men and
women of all complexions (especially the darker)
running in all directions-everybody panic-stricken
and every sort of rumor afloat. Our party decided
not to believe anything, trusting that a special mes-
senger would be sent to the officers' wives, if there
was immediate danger.
We took breakfast ; our ambulance was at the
door, and, as we stood on the piazza, we beheld
men, women, and children, and every manner of
vehicle-contrabands as well-rushing down the
street amid a cloud of dust. Every contraband in
the house availed himself of the opportunity and
kept pace with the multitude.
A Union Flag floated from a high pole in a
square facing the Hotel, and as the loyal men and
panic-stricken fugitives passed under it, they raised
their hats and caps in recognition-a touching
mark of their loyalty. It brought tears to our
eyes.
The Doctor came and our party, consisting of
Mr. Manning (a Sutler of the Maine ioth), a fine
man with a pleasant, intelligent wife and bright
baby ; the young wife of Lieutenant Whitney, also of
the Maine roth, Dr. Blake, self and Sally, Alonzo,
the Doctor's colored boy and one of Banks' men
as driver filled two ambulances. Two or three
refugees crept in behind, and we were off as fast
as we could go towards Williamsport, and thence
to Hagerstown, where we took tea. While chatting
a little, we heard a tremendous riot in the street-
or rather uproar. Our men went out to reconnoitre,

336
[1862
Elbby bopper Gibbons
telling us to be ready for a start; that there had
been a riot in that very Hotel the night before, and
it was threatened that night with utter destruction.
We counselled together, and decided a night in an
ambulance outside the town was preferable to a riot.
The poor horses were again called into service, and
we set out for this place ten miles distant (Mid-
dletown). It is a quiet, out of the way, country
town, with one tavern. I had forgotten to say
that
one of our horses gave out at Williamsport, and we
were obliged to leave him. We proceeded with
three, and when near Greencastle, found another
sick. We rode slowly, and finally, when we arrived
at the door of the Inn, found the poor animal ready
to drop ; took his harness off quickly and he lay
down and died in half an hour.
Here we found our Port Wine useful. Took a
little and then I accompanied the landlady to ar-
range for the night. Dr. Blake was really sick, for
he had been intensely anxious the whole way. So
we gave him a small room and Alonzo a bed on the
floor. Mr. and Mrs. Manning and baby, Lieuten-
ant's wife and Colonel's daughter, took the next
with two beds in it; Sally and I a bed in the third
room close to their door, which remained open all
night, and we felt well protected. We decided, of
course, not to undress. Four men were put in the
same room, Mr. Dooley and Lieutenant Jeffries of
the number. We were dozing, when four other
men were brought in. One of them took the can-
dle, walked round and looked at all. As he left
our bed, having gazed in our faces, I thought it

1862]
337
Banks' Retreat from Strasburg
66
well to let him know we had friends at hand and
so called out :
"Mr. Dooley, in which bed are you?”
The one in the corner,” said he.
“And where is Lieutenant Jeffries?”
In the same bed," was the answer.
All right," returned I, and went to sleep.
We were up early, and, sad to say, our third
horse was sick; all his strength gone and the poor
driver had been with him all night, as merciful as
if he were human. I am glad to say that, this
afternoon, he is greatly improved and the fourth is
in good condition. Mr. Manning has gone to
Williamsport for news, and we await his coming to
decide what next. We are safe as can be. In
this poor little town, there is nothing to attract and
nothing worth having ; nothing an army would
care to take and we feel as safe as in New York.
Dr. Blake-bless him now and ever-is an excel-
lent man ; has a wife and child in Chicago, and is
a graduate of Harvard, of the class in which Dr.
Lincoln Stone was a student. I am grieved to say
that it is believed the Doctor is made prisoner ;
such is the rumour.
I long to be with you and trust you will keep
your minds quiet until we can see our way. To
turn our backs on wounded men seems inhuman,
but if you are suffering from anxiety, I will be with
you at once. I hope you have received the two
telegraphic messages. I had no means of sending
yesterday, as we were all day retreating; and now
Mr. Manning has gone six miles to send from
22

338
[1862
Ebby Topper Gibbons
Hagerstown. We will write daily and cannot now
say where we shall be to-morrow.
7 o'clock ; Mr. Manning has not returned, and
will not, probably, until too late to send my letter.
I will therefore mail it and write again to-morrow.
All seems quiet, and it is said, and believed, that
the rebels have retreated.
JOURNAL
Next day, contrabands we had known at Win-
chester and Strasburg, came pouring in, covered
with mud and very hungry. They seated them-
selves on the grass, while I bought what I could at
the neighbouring shops. I asked for milk and for
cold meat, to keep the poor creatures from starv-
ing; but on finding no disposition to give relief,
I said : “Let me tell you, these people must be fed,
and those who refuse, will have to pay the penalty;
your houses shall be marked !” It was not long
before a bountiful supply was forthcoming.
I carried a bright baby round and made a col-
lection sufficient to take it, with the mother, to
Carlisle ; where they would find friends.
From Greensburgh, we went directly home, where
there was general rejoicing.
And Major Patten is seriously wounded and now
in Boston.
We must return to Winchester. Some of Fre-
mont's men
are very sick and I fear many must
die. We made over for their use, to faithful friends,
our stores of wine, sugar, coffee, &c. Of the two
latter, we received a large supply from Baltimore,

1862]
339
Banks' tRetreat from Strasburg
we suppose through the kindness of the Seventh
Regiment.
Fuly, 1862.—We left New York for Washington,
passing a pleasant evening at Uncle Edward's on
the way, and next day set out for Baltimore, where
we came upon the Seventh Regiment; which showed
us all kinds of attention.
Thence to Harper's Ferry, where we passed the
night on a floor; and, though I am charged with
sleeping well and do not deny it, I am forced to
confess it was not luxurious. We visited the Hos-
pital and Cemetery close by. The former was in
good condition and the latter beautifully located
and so adorned by trees and shrubbery, as to
shadow almost every grave—a quiet, lovely resting
place; and many a stranger's bones will moulder
there.
We obtained free transportation for our stores
from Colonel Miles, and at one P.M. were on our
tedious way to Winchester again.
Major Morse had seventy slaves employed at
Harper's Ferry. He says they earn their dollar a
day, while they receive less than half.
We had a cordial welcome from friends at Win-
chester, and although our stay was limited, accom-
plished much for the comfort of the sick. We
visited three Hospitals, the long room in the Mar-
ket House, and the store opposite.
We found the floors covered with the broken
down and thoroughly exhausted of Fremont's
troops ; long marches and scarcity of food had re-
duced them to their present condition.

340
[1862
Ebby hopper Gibbons
On our way to Washington, we fell in with one
of Fremont's staff, I forget his rank ; he was a
gentleman, a man of intelligence, humane, and, I
should judge, important. From his statement, we
must believe that General Fremont was obliged to
resign. However, rumors are various ; and with
the same knowledge, people come to different con-
clusions ; it is wise to wait ; and, meanwhile, to
believe in President Lincoln, and William H.
Seward.
This morning we have the sad intelligence of the
death of Jimmy Lowell. He was shot at Rich-
mond. How heavily that family are losing! Few
young men now stand where Putnam and Lowell
once stood-the good and beautiful to look upon-
the men that have made their mark—and of such
promise. Jimmy Lowell was Willie's classmate
at Harvard. We knew him well; admired and
loved him.
On Third day, 9th of July, a friend called, to
say that stores deposited by me at the Relief Rooms
in Market Street, had been taken by one Atwell
Schell, a member of the church and greatly re-
spected by the Secessionists of the town.
We called on the Provost Marshal and stated
the facts. He was prompt in giving assistance and
allowed us two of his guard, bidding us to use
them as we thought best. It was his first day of
command.
Accordingly, upon reaching the house of Atwell
Schell, and, after being denied a quiet surrender of
the stores, I took command and directed one of

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Banks' Retreat from Strasburg
the guard to remain with my companions below,
while I accompanied the other upstairs ; the lady
of the house being of the party by invitation, to
see that we took our own property only.
While I turned out chests and trunks, and dragged
out large bags from under beds and lounges, At-
well Schell put in an appearance, stationed himself
against a panel of a door, but not a word did he
say.
Our goods had been packed with much neatness
and care, and covered with their own quilts.
Everything was turned out, and package upon
package rolled down stairs, until a high stack was
formed in the centre of the parlor. There was
every variety of garment, bedclothes, delicacies
for the sick-such as sugar, tea, chocolate, farina,
arrowroot, gelatine, and corn-flour and barley in
large packages.
We found many of our bottles (empty, of course,
but such as were not to be found in all Winches-
ter). They had been filled with the best stimu-
lants for the sick, but not any of it had been so
appropriated-not even to their own Rebel men.
No. The citizens of Winchester had stolen it;
and on the private premises of Atwell Schell were
found our beautiful stores, hidden away, we had
reason to believe, for their own private use.
As I drew out the many heavy packages, the
female present-who was either daughter or daugh-
ter-in-law of the said Atwell, and, as I afterwards
learned, an accomplice in the theft-exclaimed
with great vehemence :

342
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“Did you ever hear of such an impudent
woman?”
“And what do you have to say of the woman
who took these goods and appropriated them to
her own purposes? In New York, we should pro-
nounce it theft and punish the transgressor !”
Enough, perhaps, that we once more possessed
our goods. We were not long in making them
over to the 32nd Ohio Regiment, whose guard
came to the rescue, and whose sick so much
needed them. This of itself, was worth our re-
turn to Winchester; and how much we regret that
our backs must be turned upon those who so much
need our care !
Prudence admonished us to retreat the next day.
The Rebel pickets were within nine miles and we
promised our friends to leave in due time. It is a
lamentable fact that some of our Union officers
incline to favor Secessionists. I will state one case
and vouch for the truth of it. Colonel B., lately
in command, gave two Rebel women
scratching the words, “True and loyal citizens of
these United States.” They declared they would
wait ten years before they would sign it in any
other way, and he accommodated them. Many of
the officers board with Secessionists of the town
and not the most respectable families either.
There is a great change in the condition of the
colored people here in Winchester. Our near
neighbours and Bob Orrick (as he is called) seem
to be the only ones left; his mother gone, Mrs.
Weaver, Mary Strange, Jeff Jenkins, and a host of
a pass,

1862]
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Banks' Retreat from Strasburg
others ; leaving their property to the mercy of the
citizens. It was Robert Orrick who was referred
to as giving up his wagon, and George Washing-
ton was Dr. Stone's man; we knew them both
well.
Robert Orrick was employed, during the war,
by Adams & Co.'s Express. He was a Methodist
minister. Sally and I attended his church occasion-
ally. He was the son of his master, who allowed him
to earn all he could. As he was a capable man
and much respected in the community, he did well.
Of course he was obliged to pay over to his master
a stated sum, at given intervals, for this privilege.
Robert's mother was an excellent woman and
her little cottage, near the Fauntleroys', was a
model of neatness. Her garden was filled with
fruit, vegetables, and flowers; the quality and
quantity was her sign of thrift. All this, and
twenty-eight children! She was a large woman
and her son a well-proportioned and good-looking
After the war, Robert Orrick was made
Postmaster—the first colored man to receive an
appointment from President Lincoln.
I hope rest and recreation is your daily occupa-
tion. Take all you can ;
care for my heart's
treasures, and if the world moves for good or evil,
let me know.
WASHINGTON.-I have seen and conversed with
the Surgeon-General ; he is not so prompt and
efficient as the reprobate Finlay; however, his aim
will be to please everybody, and such a man soon
finds himself nowhere. If I had the appointment
man.

344
[1862
Abby bopper Gibbons
66
of officers, I should take such as have executive
ability. Where there is a superabundance of good-
ness, the head is generally found wanting.
Taking Washington " does not enter into the
consideration of the people here, nor do I believe
there is the least danger. Those we know, agree
precisely with the accounts given in the Tribune.
In Washington, at the house of Judge Chipman,
we met with Peter H. Watson, Assistant Secretary
of War, and his wife ; Senator Fessenden, a sensi-
ble, dignified man; and Senator Grimes, whose
wife is the counterpart of Sarah S. Thayer. Both
pleasure and profit were centered in their friendly
companionship.
Senator Grimes gave me a letter to Surgeon-
General Hammond, with whom it was well to ad-
vise. Calling at his office, a messenger appeared
at the door, to whom I handed a card, with a re-
quest to see the Surgeon General, who was stand-
ing inside of the door. The dialogue ran as
follows:
“Tell her she can't be seen without first stating
her business.”
'I have a letter from Senator Grimes.”
“Tell the woman to send the letter in.”
I obeyed orders, and entrance to the office was
permitted. As he was authority, I wished him to
know that myself and daughter would be accept-
ably received by the Surgeon-in-charge at Point
Lookout, if we accompanied Miss Dix and her
nurses-adding, We desire to avoid all difficul-
ties, our object being solely to have charge of the
66
66

1862]
345
Banks' Retreat from Strasburg
sick and wounded, and to aid with our stores,
which are valuable ; to give free service and to go,
independent of restraint, except such as would be
imposed by the Surgeon-in-charge, whom we are
bound to respect.”
“I don't know how they 'll receive you. I don't
know anything about it."
He did not stop here; his words and manner
could not be exaggerated or surpassed, in coarse-
ness and roughness. We quietly retreated with a
determination that no restraints should separate us
from our sick, broken-down, cheated, neglected
soldiers, imposed upon from the beginning ; but
that our sacrifices should be many and that we
should bear and forbear to the end.
I advised with Senators Grimes and Fessenden,
and at once sought a higher power. I was now
dealing with gentlemen and, with the help of the
Assistant Secretary of War, soon accomplished all
I wished for.

CHAPTER XXII.
1862-1863.
POINT LOOKOUT (JOURNAL).
O
N the 19th of July, 1862, duly armed and
equipped with a Document from Honor-
able P. H. Watson, we were found on
the steamtug Clyde bound for Point Lookout.
Miss Dix held the order of the Surgeon-General,
instructing her to be at the foot of Sixth Street,
between 8 and 9 o'clock, with her nurses. My
daughter and I joined them, Surgeon-General
Hammond arriving at 10.30 in a Barouche. Civ-
ilities were coldly exchanged by himself and Miss
Dix. Of course, he did not recognize us, save by
a descent of the head, as Miss Dix repeated the
words : “My nurses, Surgeon-General.”
Dinner time arrived. Miss Dix was invited,
but “declined the honor not extended to her
nurses." I had taken the precaution to put some
tea where I could lay my hand on it ; Miss Dix
supplied sugar, and, among us, we produced a few
cups and glasses and regaled ourselves in turn.
This, with a biscuit and gingerbread, taken out
of a pillowcase, sustained us from 7 o'clock on the
morning of the igth until the following morning.
We arrived at the Point at eight in the evening
346

1862–63]
347
Point Lookout
exhausted by hunger rather than by fatigue, and
sought our beds at the earliest moment. I wish
now to do full justice to the Assistant Surgeons,
who were untiring in their efforts “to aid and
comfort the enemy,” even to the ordering of a
cup of tea; but when the tea and bread finally
came, some of the party were already enjoying
“tired nature's sweet restorer” and others declined,
while they appreciated the attention.
Sunday, July 20th, we were up early, hearing
the Commodore had arrived with 250 sick, from
Harrison's Landing. I went on board and found
the men suffering for food. They had been
longer on the passage than was anticipated and
were on short allowance. It was pitiful to hear
their complaints. One man said he paid ten cents
for two potatoes ; another, twenty-five for a loaf
of bread. I saw their scanty rations, but, in other
respects, they were made as comfortable as cir-
cumstances would allow. The more serious cases
were brought on shore and placed in our charge.
These were our first patients at “Point Lookout.”
The Steward had gone to Baltimore for stores
and our means for service were extremely limited ;
but all made the best of the situation. In the
army, as elsewhere, we find every variety of dis-
position and infirmity of body and mind. Some
are so generous as to spend their last penny, while
others will suffer rather than spend at all.
The presence of Protestant women, with ability
to regard the needs of the sick, and to sympathize
with suffering humanity, is a treasure beyond

348
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Elbby bopper Gibbons
price. And here I must be allowed to contrast
such with the cold intercourse of Catholic nurses,
who are the machinery of an Institution and do
not minister to the broken-down in spirit, who
call loudly for the presence of women and are
glad to find mothers and sisters near.
Miss Dix left this day, after making a statement
of the difficulties we were to encounter. She
exhorted us to great patience and firmness, and we
resigned ourselves to the fate that awaited us.
I shall confine myself strictly to what came under
my own eye, which is ever open to the shortcom-
ings of men and women in high places. We
were in sympathy with each other and rejoiced
in our independence.
I will not descend to the detail of life here,
which reminds me of the power and majesty of
an official unfitted for the position he holds, but
will dwell upon the fact that the days of such are
numbered, and that there is an over-ruling earthly
power-even our President, Abraham Lincoln-
who is a just and cautious man; slow to move,
but when ready, sure to take the right direction.
The Surgeon-General disappeared. When and
how, I cannot tell. It was Saturday morning when
he came; he tarried until Monday, but was only
seen in the distance. Judging from various mani-
festations, he ate, slept and regaled himself in a
sailboat along our lovely shore.
We have a magnificent view of the Bay from
our cottage window. The roaring of the sea, and
its music we delight in. “To the pure, all things

1863]
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Point Lookout
are pure.” In this God-forsaken place, propriety
forbids the luxury of sea bathing.
I cannot pass over the "general kitchen," where
we partook of our rations with becoming fortitude
-how the doors were besieged by hungry, ema-
ciated men borne upon by rebel cooks using the
coarsest language while driving them from the door.
A little dining-room was assigned us, and Henry
Day, an obliging dark brother, found an old pack-
ing box and was skilful in shaping it into a table.
We appropriated a new sheet for a cover and
being provided each with knife, fork and spoon,
were to be seen three times a day, on our way to
partake of such preparations as our scanty sup-
plies afforded. But enough of ourselves. We
cared more for our patients, and used every con-
trivance to secure for them palatable and nutri-
tious food.
When the Commodore arrived on Sunday the
20th, all hands set to work ; some arranging
beds, and others with port wine and brandy.
Many were in a dying condition ; eleven had died
on the way.
We could not realize the rest the
day usually brings. It was mainly passed in com-
forting the sick. Our boxes had not arrived and
we were unable to aid in a substantial way, as the
stores we brought with us were very limited.
This morning, July 21st, as Mrs. Parsons was
taking her rounds, she said to a passing soldier :
“How are you this morning ?” He replied,
“ Much better. I have
I have been buying a steak from
the cook and paid two shillings for it."

350
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A young man in citizen's dress came along,
whom we understood to be Dr. Stewart. Mary
(Mrs. Parsons) referred to the fact incidentally,
and it was immediately seized upon as capital to
convict the cook, who was a colored man.
It was at once reported to the Surgeon-in-charge,
who ordered his arrest. Stewart proved to be a
clerk for the Surgeon and not an M.D., and pass-
ing a second time, he said, “The fellow is to be
punished. Here is the twenty-five cents, which
you may give to the soldier.”
I enquired "What is the punishment ?"
"He will be severely chastised," said Stewart-
severely whipped.”
Brutal !” we exclaimed. Sally being much
excited, said, “I would not stay on the ground
one hour where such outrages are committed."
I did not wait to give expression to my feelings,
but went straightway to Captain Wood, Com-
mander of the Military Post, to plead for the poor
fellow-imploring him to have mercy; to repri-
mand the offender if he proved guilty, etc.
"I promise you shall sit as Judge and decide
what the punishment shall be,” said Captain Wood.
“ Thank you. If proved guilty, he should be
reprimanded-not brutally treated.”
The poor, frightened fellow was arraigned. As
he entered, I turned towards him and said: "I
am grieved that this charge should be brought
against you, and hope sincerely you will be able to
prove your innocence. How could
you
take a
soldier's money?"

1863]
351
Point Lookout
"Hear me, madam,” said the accused man.
The Captain permitted him to proceed, when
he made his statement as follows:
“That piece of meat came from the Doctor's
table. The soldier, seeing it, asked if he might
have it. On taking it he put a quarter in my hand.”
Captain Wood said the story was plausible; he
was inclined to believe it and proposed that the
man should be discharged—that he had in vain
searched for a witness to prove the truth of the
accusation.
"Put the case off until five o'clock," said the
contemptible Stewart.; "by that time the witness
will appear."
There was no appeal, and supposing the poor
fellow was safe, the postponement was agreed
upon. I then said to him, "Be careful of your
conduct. In all such things, do justly. Take
especial care to be honest; for remember, the
eyes of the world and the interest of the world are
upon your people. Now that your condition of life
is about to assume a new character, it becomes
you to be upon your guard at all times.”
He looked upon me as his friend, thanked me
for the trouble I had taken, and promised to do
the best he could. Stewart writhed ; all the more
for not being sober.
At about half past three the same day, I received
a message from the Surgeon-in-charge to appear
at his office. I answered the summons and, as I
entered, he bade me to be seated, and, in a solemn
tone, held forth after this manner :

352
[1862-
Elbby hopper Gibbons
66
66
66
“Madam, I hear you have been talking
strangely."
“What do you mean ? " I enquired.
He repeated, “You have been talking strangely."
We might differ on that point,” was my answer.
Will you explain ?"
Here Stewart, clerk and not M. D., said: “You
would take a black man's word as soon as a white
man's. You put them on an equality.”
Certainly, the color would make no difference.
I take the side of justice and humanity.”
Mrs. Gibbons," said the Surgeon-in-charge,
"you are dismissed from further service. I have
no use for you."
“Put your charge in writing. What is it ? ” I
asked.
You interfered with my orders to punish the
man.”
“I deny it."
“And your daughter, she is dismissed also. I
understand she said she would not remain if the
man was punished.
“Certainly, we should not remain where such
cruelties are practiced."
I turned to Stewart, who is a Marylander, and
belongs to one of the first families in Baltimore,
and said : “You have played a double part. You
have made false representations to the Surgeon-in-
charge, while to us, you professed to be friendly.”
After a few minutes, I said to the Surgeon, “I
demand your charge in writing. Shall I wait for
it or will you send it ?”

1863]
353
point Lookout
“I will send it," was the answer.
"I left the office and the parties, black as a
thundercloud. I next sought Mrs. Parsons. She,
being unused to such experiences, manifested some
surprise. I accompanied her to the Surgeon's
office, where she requested to be placed on even
ground with her friends.
I then turned to the Surgeon-in-charge and said :
"I have the ear of Senators and Members of
the House ; of the Secretary of War and the
President of the United States. You shall feel
this.”
The discharge did not come, and, next morning,
Dr. David Lee called, to entreat me to an amicable
adjustment of the affair—admitting the wrong step
the Surgeon-in-charge had taken, and adding,
you have transgressed a military rule.”
I held that women are not supposed to know
anything about military rules. He thought an
apology was called for. I assured him an apology
would never be drawn from me—that I would
make sacrifices rather than leave our sick, but I
would not lie.
Dr. Lee was a man of gentle and kindly nature,
and after going over the facts in a kindly spirit, I
agreed to call at the office of the Surgeon and say
whatever might arise at the time of the interview.
According to promise, I called, and found a
change had come over the “spirit of his dreams.”
He arose from his comfortable chair, and, in a
courteous manner, offered one to me. When
seated, I said :
66
23

354
(1862-
Abby bopper Gibbons
"I understand I have transgressed a military
rule. If that is true, I did it ignorantly. I do not
see it, however. You are surely aware that women
are not expected to know anything of military
etiquette.”
A profound silence ensued. I thought to my-
self, we are having a Quaker Meeting, and resolved
not to relieve his embarrassment.
After a time he said : “Mrs. Gibbons, did you
think I was unjust to you yesterday?”
“Very unjust," I replied.
"How was I unjust ?"
“You accepted a false statement from your
clerk Stewart, who played a double part, without
even inviting me to an explanation."
Further detail is not worth the record. I had
been made aware of the Surgeon's state of mind
concerning the whole transaction. He knew he
had gone too far and was trembling for himself: his
position was in peril. He knew I had power and
would use it. I put my rule in practice and in
the language of conduct, forgave him.
Before I left the office, he invited me to make
known my wants and promised that, so far as he
was able, they should be supplied, concluding with
these words :
“My clerk Stewart is dismissed. He has been
drunk all day."
In word and deed, apologies were abundant,
and I had reason to be satisfied with the result.
The cook returned to service and the contest was
at an end.

1863]
355
Point Lookout
I copy from Sally's letter of July 22d, as
follows :
“We have passed through so many fiery trials,
that it seems three weeks instead of three days
since we arrived here. Miss Dix deserves much
credit for the manner in which she resisted the
Catholic invasion. She was insulted at every turn,
and, but for her persistence, every Protestant would
have been sent off the Point at once. She said it
was a point she would never yield and entreated us
to do our best, as it depended entirely upon us
whether Protestants should have a hold here or
not. From the day of our arrival, obstacles have
been thrown in our way and everything done, by
the defenders of the faith, to remove us. But to-
day our position is defined.
“Five of our men were buried last night and as
many more will go to their long homes to-day.
They are buried a few hours after their last breath
goes, because we have no coffins, and no anything.
We see by a paper which fell accidentally into our
hands that this place is to accommodate from four
to five thousand, and that a mail is to come here
six days in the week.
“We have a fresh trial to-day.
One of our
stoves has been taken away, which leaves us but
one for 125 men. I hope the 'Woman's Central'
will send a stock of tin pails, for never were wo-
men more destitute. Besides the Guerilla warfare
with Doctors and Cooks, two 'brushes with the
enemy,' and other trials, we are in momentary
expectation of a scarcity of water. There are but

356
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Abby bopper Gibbons
us.
two wells on these grounds, and when they give
out, (which has happened four times since we
came,) every drop of water has to be brought from
the Light House, half a mile away.
Surgeon-General Hammond ordered that the
Catholics should be first considered in all things
and that the Protestant nurses should be dismissed
on the slightest provocation. They tried to return
us to Washington by the same boat which brought
He says : 'They write too much.'
“Even the fine, large building the Sisters 'oc-
cupy does not conceal the fact that the patients
are not well attended, and the Doctors complain
bitterly of their want of capacity in preparing diet
for the sick, often coming to us for special delica-
cies.
“ The Company in command of the Military
Post will leave here on the 29th, and we hope an-
other and a better will succeed it. The Captain is
a bad fellow. We have in the Guard House two
guerillas and a French Spy."
TO JOHN HOPPER AND CO.
“ Point Lookout, 7 mo. 25th, 1862.
“The Commodore brought 280 sick,—very, very
sick, and dying, and the whole day has been
devoted to them, and yet they are not half at-
tended to. We hope the Steamer of to-night will
bring additional nurses.
“We have had a strange experience here, which

1863]
357
Point Lookout
we are
I scarcely dare to give until we leave the place-
and it is the place of all others for us. Wounded
men are expected to-night or to-morrow morning.
You cannot send a thing that is not needed. I
never wanted stores half so much. Do not send in
trunks, they do not carry safely. I wish we had
more Bay Water. Mr. Murphy said he would give
it liberally and we do so need it. Pray send me
two pieces of dried Beef. We want it to use when
on short allowance-and some Graham
Crackers. I hope all our stores are on the way.
“This is a lovely watering-place, and at evening
when our work is done, we sit on our cottage step,
and hear the music of the sea, and enjoy the surf
as it foams on the shore. The best Surgeons and
Officers gather round us, and say they come be-
cause they are homesick. We greet them kindly,
and they are ready to help us in every possible
way. Do write and tell us about your dear selves.
“Our boxes had better be hooped, for they are
sadly knocked. A steamer will come to-night and
I shall hope some of our boxes are on board.
“Please enclose stamps for our letters, and tell
us all sorts of news. We have seen one newspaper
since we came.
Our soldiers do not like the
Catholic Sisters at all. They wear white bonnets,
with a flap to hide their faces. One said the other
day, he could not bear those ghosts flapping about
him. With their passing in, he passed out.
Sena-
tor Fessenden said they looked like fury; he did
not want them near him, when he was sick. It is
the Surgeon General's idea to have them."

358
[1862-
Albby bopper Gibbons
FROM GEORGE G. HAYDOCK.
66
66
“ New York, 8 mo, 8, '62.
Major Gen.
A. H. Gibbons.
“John says thee has been promoted, and I go in
for giving full titles ; hence the address. We are
packing up sundry articles sent in by John and thy
husband, together with contributions from other
parties. There are a variety of articles from the
Penn. Relief Ass. of Ladies, which thee will find
in the large box, marked No. I.
“Dried apples, pillows, dried currants, sheets
and pillow cases, towels, dried cherries, comforta-
bles, (which they thought would be acceptable to
the nurses,) two large fans, a lot of small ditto,
bandages, lint, &c. &c.
Hope you will be
able to stand the fatigue and hard diet. If it is as
hot where you are as it is here, I pity you."
MRS. SEDGWICK TO JULIA.
"• The Hive,' Feb. 19,
1862.
“General Sedgwick has been appointed to Gen-
eral Stone's Division, and taken Will with him to
Poolesville. I shall doubtless hear something from
him when he gets settled. He is glad of the
change on two accounts only. He will have more
to do and perhaps a better chance for promotion.
He regrets very much the breaking up of their
staff—the most harmonious, he thinks, to be found
anywhere.

1863]
359
Point Lookout
“ Is n't 'the Anaconda' losing his torpidity at
last, and stretching himself and winding his folds
to some purpose ? I am quite getting to depend
upon a daily drum of good news. Don't they come
in gloomily? Do write to me, dear Julie, and tell
me about you all and let me know when your mother
will probably go to Washington. I think even your
father must be pretty well satisfied with the way
the ball is rolling now. Did you read Lowell's
'Idyll on Mason and Slidell’? I want he should
write another upon Russell.”
MRS. SEDGWICK TO JULIA.
The Hive, Sept. 3d, 1862.
We heard from Will, by a little despatch
written in pencil and dated on Saturday last, near
Alexandria. They moved the next day, so say the
papers, to join Pope. He was not quite well, but
neither was he ill enough not to be busily at work.
He thinks the war has been pretty badly managed,
but that we shall come out all right. Is not this a
terrible crisis just now? Will was not engaged in
the fighting of last week, but there must, probably,
be a desperate battle going on just now.
THE SAME.
“ The Hive, Sept. 21, 1862.
“I go straight to my dear Willie, from whom
the last accounts are unfavorable. So you will not
see me at present. I do not despair about him,
but am very anxious. His wound is a dangerous
onę."

360
(1862-
Abby Topper Gibbons
THE SAME.
Keedysville, Sept. 28, 1862.
“I know you are very anxious to hear from us.
My dear Will is doing well, and I hope he may be
removed within ten days, but we cannot tell yet.
His wound, I am assured, is doing remarkably
well.
“He has been very restless since I came, and,
the last day or two, light-headed ; but this, I am
assured, is only the result of weakness, and that I
need give myself no anxiety about it. His strength
holds out wonderfully. We are in a quiet, retired
farmhouse, with most kind, excellent people. His
cousin, Ellery Sedgwick, came here before us, and
there is a surgeon staying here in attendance upon
him who has been on General Sedgwick's staff and
is a friend of his. We can get everything we want
for him from a hospital not far off, which is pro-
vided with stores from the Sanitary. Good-bye,
dear. If we do not get to New York before Louisa
comes I must get you to look after her a little.
66
Yours ever,
66
' E. B. S.”
Major Sedgwick's wife had gone to Europe with
her children, to visit her family, and was expected
about this time. He died before her return.
JOURNAL
Fuly 31st.-Since the Commodore arrived, there
have been thirty-five deaths. The John Brooks,

1863]
361
Point Lookout
with 280 sick, is at the landing. Ice-water, wine,
and bay-rum are brought into requisition. One
dead, another dying, and all seriously ill.
This day, Aug. 5th, the master and mistress of a
slave who had been brutally whipped, were here to
take the oath of allegiance (which was of course
swearing to a lie), and the poor fellow was put
into the hands of the brute who claimed him.
There was no help. How could there be ? There
is scarcely a man here whom I should call a loyal
citizen of these United States. It was terrible,
and all over before I knew what was going on.
The captain shook hands with the slaveholder
heartily; he is a cruel wretch and declined to take
the oath himself, but his daughter took it, and the
poor fellow went off, sad enough.
To-day the Kennebec arrived, with 312 sick and
wounded, many of them seriously. I went on
board, and found in the hold below 150 men
crowded together. It was so dark that I could
not see a single object, the men telling me where
to step, that I might not tread upon them. I took
a lighted candle and, on walking round, found
many without a single garment. Some were in
wrappers, others had drawers, and others only
sheets thrown over their nakedness.
When they left the prison at Richmond they
were alive with vermin, and in such a condition
that on bathing their clothing was thrown into the
river. It was a shocking scene-poor, lank, emaci-
ated beings, of whom I can say more when we get
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66
fore night. A boat is unloading at the wharf,
crowded with timber, and wounded' men cannot
be carried with safety until it is removed.
Our cottages are in process of arrangement for
their reception. There are no dangerous cases,
but some amputations and slight wounds.
Our boxes have arrived, and never were boxes
more acceptable.
The consecrated” milk and 'condemned”
cream (as our cook calls them) are a god-send,
and much of it has gone already. The butter came
when most needed, and was in good condition.
Cassa-broma poor stuff, but it served a good pur-
pose and is nearly gone. Clothing, more than
welcome. In truth, everything was put into ser-
vice at once.
Boxes answer more than one purpose, and since
the arrival of ours we have been looked upon as
the aristocracy of the place. Our work will be
rendered comparatively easy in a few days, when
a dining-room will be finished, to seat five hundred
It is not so much the cooking that we mind
as the management of forty nurses.
The surgeon-in-charge is polite, and we think
would grant any favor, but the surgeon-general is
behind him. Our condition, however, has greatly
improved, and we consider ourselves pretty well off.
By the way, our steward, who is quite the man
of the place, was escorted to Washington yester-
day by a lieutenant and six guards, after an im-
prisonment of several weeks' duration ; the charge
being that he declined giving to Doctor Dumacker
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a hospital shirt and drawers after ten P.M., which
he wanted to wear in bathing.
The misfortune is, the surgeon-in-charge is not
a man of force ; he is kindly disposed, from policy
rather than by nature. “Bush-whacker," so-called
(Dumacker), and the “little corporal” are his
tools. The latter is acting-steward just now, and
has considerable authority.
The cook has just sent in to know if we are
to have any “hereafters” for dinner--meaning
dessert.
Our Prussian Doctor Dumacker, has gone to
Washington, to demolish the Steward if possible.
If he should cut off his own head, Point Lookout
would stand the stronger for it. It is
very unusual
to find a man so cordially disliked, and if any here
undertake to sustain his course, it will be because
their bread and butter are at stake. The main
official is singularly led by him, and the only justi-
fication is that said official cannot stand alone.
I am suspicious of the Postmaster; it is not well
to trust a man so ignorant. If the Surgeon was
more of a man, he would never recommend a per-
son so manifestly unsuitable.
The public ought to know the condition of things
here. Such a scene as is presented at every meal,
is disgraceful in the extreme. The men are clam-
orous for something to eat, and are supposed to
get tea and coffee. The Doctors said a day or two
since, that it should not be called coffee—it was
simply colored water.
Our sick of the Kennebec, from City Point, James

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River, were reduced to a very low condition be-
cause of the privations they encountered while
prisoners at Richmond. Their condition was pitiful.
As many garments were distributed at City Point as
the limited supply made possible ; and thanks are
due to our New York friends who made us able to
circulate two hundred shirts among these cadaver-
ous looking men of the better class. The most in-
teresting are from New York and Massachusetts ;
they are grateful, and make as little trouble as
possible.
First and Fourth days, the Surgeon, with his
assistant, made a thorough examination of our
work, and reported a marked contrast in favor of
our management and preparations for our patients.
What was unexpected, ours was declared the popu-
lar and much approved course.
We have earned
approbation by a steady advance, turning neither
to the right nor to the left. The attempt made at
first to disconcert us, proved unsuccessful.
The stoves are a first-rate blessing and came
when our need was great. But for family and
friends at home, the privations would be many.
Answering the calls of Surgeons and nurses con-
sumes much of my time. I cannot write in detail.
Every day has its duties and excitements. Yester-
day, whiskey was circulating and the consequences
were serious. Some poor fellows passed the night
in the guardhouse, badly drunk.
The old North River Knickerbocker is at the
landing. I have not learned just what for, but the
rumor is, to take convalescents to their regiments.

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The Surgeons are attentive and kind, and much
surprised that we outgeneraled them. Some came
to the rescue manfully. They give a cheerful
variety to life, and their oft-repeated assertions in-
cline us to believe that we give them a home feeling
and substantial help. They look upon us as a use-
ful and acceptable institution.
The Commissary calls every evening at our cot-
tage door. He is a fatherly man, loves President
Lincoln as a brother, and when at home, is his near
neighbor.
How splendidly General Banks is doing! I
hope his wound will not prove serious. The men
have a profound respect for him.
The Company now in command, Eighth New
York, Captain Wood, leave on the 29th. We shall
give them a hearty good riddance. I hope men
and not rowdies will succeed them. Yesterday,
their dog so mangled a little colored boy, that he
is not expected to survive the injury. The dog
was shot. It is said that this animal was trained to
catch runaways, and has been known to bring a
slave back a distance of twelve miles.
So much of my time is used in pleading for these
poor, despised specimens of humanity, brutally
treated and scourged as they are, together with my
visits to their camps, that it is with difficulty I can
command an hour for writing.
Over 500 patients were added to our number last
Sunday, Aug. 18th. They were transported from
Yorktown on the steamer State of Maine. We have
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very sick. I have just returned from a visit to four,
one of whom has been ill since March. It does
seem cruel that they are not sent to die among
friends at home. Not a day passes that I am not
entreated to do what I can to secure their dis-
charge.
I called at the Quartermaster's office, and found
a slave whose master was in pursuit of him. The
Commander of the Post had just left; I pursued
him and entreated him to hold the man to work
for him, and so he did. His claimant took his
course homeward, much disconcerted, and now I
must keep my eye on the poor fellow.
The Point Lookout Officials are doing all they
can to gain power and to keep what they have.
The Wardmaster comes to ask what he can do.
Already, he has shelved my storeroom. The Sur-
geon-in-charge comes to read an important letter.
The Quartermaster asks what he can do—that he is
at my service; and, last night, came a rap at my
door at 12 M.
In answer to my question, “What is
it?” “Madam," said the Q. M., “there are two
boxes at the landing. Shall I store them for you
until morning? Whatever you order shall be
done."
“Thank you. Put them in the Storehouse."
I am looking after the Postmaster and to-day
received from the Asst. Secy. of War, Hon. P. H.
Watson, a very polite, kind letter, in reply to one I
had thought proper to send him.
The Surgeon-in-charge is especially gracious
and leaves no stone unturned by which he can

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serve us.
He is of Southern birth and education,
which accounts in some measure for his shortcom-
ings. We hope to bring him to the level of a com-
monsense Northern man.
I went to the Guard House to-day to see a con-
traband, who had been unmercifully whipped by
his master. He was lashed from neck to heels, so
closely that the lashes crossed each other, the skin
being taken off at every stroke. I bade him take
off his shirt that I might know his condition was
not exaggerated. In place of the garment, stiff
with blood, I gave him a clean one and a pair of
pants. He was sent to work for the day, but in the
evening his master appeared, took the oath of alle-
giance, and the poor mutilated boy was given up.
It was an outrage. I anticipated the result and
remonstrated with Captain Wood, of the New York
Militia, urging that his master should not be allowed
to take him, and saying that we were suffering for
hands. But he insisted that if his master took the
oath, he was bound to believe him, and that his
uty was to deliver the slave to his owner.
This is done continually. Captain Wood and his
men have no sense of responsibility, or common
decency. Their time will soon expire and I de-
voutly wish that a better class may take their
places. I speak of them as a body; a few are
trustworthy and humane, but powerless.
I went down to the wharf last night at 10.30, and
waited in the Guard House until two in the morn-
ing, with two contrabands. The Captain of the
steamer was a rebel and refused to take them on

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board. It was not a government boat, of course.
I am holding them over for a chance.
A few days
ago, men were seized, tied to a tree, and afterwards
returned to their masters.
There is not a more disloyal State in the Union
than this same Maryland. Colonel Rogers said he
would give me a pass for any I would name in a
note, as Virginians. The contrabands all declare
now they are from that State.
A new Steward has arrived. He will soon bring
things to order.
The contrabands are ever in my walks from
early morn till night. Yesterday, some of us at-
tended a service in the woods and Clara Thomas
read two chapters from the Bible. Dear old Uncle
Willoughby prayed for the success of the Union
party. He said he "hoped every man on this
P’int would enter into an enquiration of the way
to glory.” The service was really very touching.
Afterwards, we visited the sick, leaving them a few
comforts. Their suffering during the winter has
been dreadful. Some of them have been without
covering for the night.
Thank Mr. Choate for his gift of lemons—such
lemons too ! the whole box was looked over and
only two found the least faulty. It was very kind
to send so acceptable a gift, and many were the
grateful hearts. They proved a first rate blessing
to the scurvy patients, especially, of whom there
are many
This morning, August 12th, at half past nine, the
nurses were mustered. The proceeding is
66
ac-

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cording to the Army Regulations"—so says the
important Niebrick. The other day, in making
out a list of the dead, he enquired of the Surgeon,
thus: “What did this man die of?” Upon the
Surgeon beginning to explain, Steward Niebrick
said :
“No, no! he must die according to the Regula-
You must make it rheumatism, typhoid
fever, or some definite thing. That is according
to Regulation.” This said in broken English made
it seem very funny.
I have been to the Steamer to see Mr. & Mrs.
Bourne off, with their sick son, who was carried on
a stretcher. They are from Hingham, Mass. A
dozen of our commissioned officers went. The
father of one of them arrived last evening, and
finding his son had left, a basket of peaches fell to
my lot, and I circulated them among the patients
and was well content to own the empty basket.
The dining-room was opened yesterday. It
made me feel tired to see the soldiers in line,
'according to the Regulations ”; some sat on the
floor, unable to wait so long. There is precious
little heart in the regular army, and less in Nie-
brick's body. I declare myself at a loss to know
what may be the fate of these men when we go
home.
The Prussian Doctor Dumacker is sent else-
where ; Steward Geoffroy is assigned to another
Post. The Postmaster is about to have his place
filled, and altogether, we are changing for the
better.
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24

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66
Sitting at our cottage door at this moment,
August 25th, we see eight vessels passing before us;
just out of the Potomac and entering Chesapeake
Bay, are five towed by a steamer. There is great
excitement. The rumor is afloat that Washington
is in danger. There is shelling in the distance, and,
every night, boats are seen crossing to Virginia.
Everything indicates a desperate movement. Cap-
tain Lucas, our Commissary, tells us that everything
looks dark to-day.
We are trying hard to get a Steamer” to run
between this point and Washington. Unless we
are successful, 1350 men cannot be sustained on
this barren soil. We are out of the way, and the
climate is unfavorable to many. A convalescent
may gain, but to a consumptive, or one with any
trouble of the lungs, it is very depressing.
Harriet Wyman, of Charlestown, will leave on
the first steamer, to look after her son. Help her
if you can; cheer and encourage her, and find out
what she most needs.
August 28th, Captain Snyder arrived, bringing
to us thirty packages; some were excellent. The
box from the Sanitary Commission not well packed ;
jellies fermented, meats spoiled, and Tracts enough
to supply the whole Confederate States. Tell Isaac
Sherman his boxes came in excellent condition. The
books are invaluable and are kept for special cases.
Two Companies of the 85th Penn. Regt. have
arrived, besides which, arms have been sent" for
the use of convalescents, on occasion," which makes
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We have just had three Lieutenants to take a cup
of tea with us; one of them a Philadelphian,-not
so very young, either,-has been boasting how he
hung up privates by their thumbs for not taking off
their hats to him. Sally gave him a snub he will
not forget, and was upheld by one of the officers.
It is past endurance to hear some of them talk and
to see how the good and true are allowed to
suffer.
On the 29th, the 8th New-York left Point Look-
out. A number of calls from officers, to say a
parting word-and privates as well-was a result.
They left at 10 P. M., calling on their way to the
Steamer, first, upon the Quartermaster, the Com-
missary and the Surgeon-in-charge. Finally, they
brought up at our door, and gave “nine rousing
cheers to Mrs. Gibbons and her aids”; made a
speech, of course; to which I was bound to reply
as follows:
May you be found true and loyal men, and
never return a slave to his master! I thank you,
Captain Johnson, for much kindness, and I wish
for you all a safe and pleasant passage."
August 30th, '62.-Father's letter to the President
has just come to hand,“ approved by President
Lincoln, referred to the Secretary of War," then
to the Surgeon-General, from him to the Surgeon-
in-charge, and now I am requested to specify my
charges.
The news of yesterday is very discouraging.
The Surgeons immediately set to work to encourage
men to return to their regiments. Eight left this
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morning, a number having entreated the privilege
of going, who were scarcely able to leave their
beds. If the officers had the needs of their coun-
try and their men as much at heart as the small
trial of being obliged to eat hard biscuit for a few
days, we should get along better. There are hon-
orable exceptions, of course, but there are many
here who care for nothing so much as their own
precious selves.
The Captain who informed us of our reverses,
said it was kept very quiet in Washington. In that
city, even the Provost Guard was withdrawn. Men
from the Hospitals were being hurried to General
Pope's assistance. It is enough for us to know
that our Army has been defeated.
Here I am, Sept. 8th, sitting by my storeroom
table, which I call half the time, the Library. I
suppose habit has something to do with the name;
and perhaps the size, which compares with ours at
home. In the middle of the room is a white pine
table, made by a carpenter who is employed to put
up a building for patients. Every sort of offer is
made for our comfort and convenience.
When I look back to our cold reception and
many hardships, it seems strange that, in a few
weeks, such a change should be wrought. No one
dares to send a fugitive to his master; and instead
of incivility, attentions are showered upon us. The
cottage we occupy (two rooms) is called "Head-
quarters." There is not a Surgeon on the ground
who fails to do us honor. The soldiers, pretty

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generally, call me "Mother," the officers, “Mrs.
Gibbons."
We have eighty-five commissioned officers. One
of them told me last evening that they had not had
such a training since they left home ; that I had
really convinced them that Privates were entitled
to consideration, as well as themselves. They send
us ducks, fish, fruit, etc., to show their good will,
The other day, there was a rumor that rebels
were approaching. A contraband told the story,
which proved to be true. We are poorly protected,
but our hundred men put themselves in waggons,
the Commander of the Post on a spirited horse in
front, while three Surgeons, with lint and bandages,
brought up the rear. It was an hour before dinner
and the poor fellows were hungry. We took what
bread we could spare from our rations, and apples
that you sent us, giving to each, something. Last
of all, I went to the waggon that held the Surgeons,
and said: “Do not burden yourselves with bag-
gage; not a hair of your heads will be singed.”
Well, taking their time, off they went, returning
at 10 P.M., to tell us they arrived on the spot in
time to see the fellows off in a boat for Virginia.
Meanwhile, the man who had been carrying the
Rebel mail from Maryland to Virginia, was cap-
tured, as well as his boat, and we hold them to order.
On the same day nineteen men and five women
came-refugees; and the day after, fourteen men
and five women, with some little children. They
are making the most of moonlight nights.

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Do ask Hannah Haydock to send by Captain
Snyder, more contraband clothing. They have old
castaway finery and are not half clad. It would
amuse you to see them dressed for Sunday. We
give them kerchiefs for their heads, and they do
their best to make an appearance. The first thing
when they arrive is to go to the Quartermaster, the
third cottage above us, and then they are regularly
directed to come to us by the contrabands already
here. Every man's cast-off garment, and woman's
too, will come into service, for they will suffer when
cold weather comes.
One of the Surgeons just called to say they
boarded a gunboat now in sight, sent for our special
protection. It is to pass up and down the Bay,
and round the Point into the Potomac. Some ap-
prehend they will try our stores; for my own part,
I think they have other points of interest, upon
which they will give their strength.
Do not take the times too much to heart. It
will come out all right. At least, such is my faith
that I cannot doubt the result. That our good
and true men-our young men whom we know and
love, and in whom is our trust and hope, and whom
to lose is a nation's grief—will fail to win the day,
I cannot think.
I go from ward to ward and talk with the many.
I look upon their worn and wasted condition, and
in spite of my efforts, the tears come. I think of
the mothers, whose homes will always be lonely ;
of daughters and sisters; and this day I have
written to two sisters giving accounts of their

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66
brother, who died two days ago. He was just
twenty-two. As I sat by his bedside, his hand
resting on mine, he gave his messages of love and
said he hoped God would release him that night,
adding: “I long to go, I give you so much
trouble.” I assured him he had never, for one
moment, given trouble ; that his patience and
resignation were an example to us all, and it was a
pleasure to wait on him. I parted with him late
in the evening, taking a lock of his hair for his
sisters. His last words were,
I shall soon be at
rest." In answer to the question, “Would you
like to see the Chaplain ?” he answered : “He
can do me no good. I have sought peace and
hope. I am ready for another world.” He died
that night. His nurse was devoted to him through-
out his illness.
We have had a very satisfactory visit from Doc-
tor Douglas ; it seemed a direct message from
home. He passed three successive evenings in our
cottage and called during the day. I like his views
of hospital management; he is so reasonable, sensi-
ble, clear and independent-so just to the soldier ;
so faithful to appointments. We are truly sorry to
part with him. His visit has been of service in
many ways, and his experience is worth a great deal.
The other day, three contrabands came on shore,
bringing with them a valuable boat. They were
set to work, found they were being decently treated,
and said if they had known how well we cared for
such, they would have brought their wives. The
next morning, the Quartermaster called and said ;

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“Well, Mrs. Gibbons, those boys have gone, and
taken our boat."
Their boat,” said I. So there was rejoicing on
one side and regret on the other. The third day
after, what should appear but the boat, men, wo-
men and babies. The men are now at work with
spades, and the women in the Laundry.
I said : “Now, Captain Edwards, consider them
true men, and pray treat them as such. You would
have done the same under like circumstances."
There is a growing faith in these people and I
think the time is even now come, when Liberty
should be proclaimed to every man, woman and
child in the United States of America. Hasten
the day, and the end will be Peace!
Uncle John is with you to-night. Tell him, with
my best love, that his sun umbrella is an unspeak-
able comfort. Every day we use it, and realize his
thoughtful kindness.
A Chaplain came here about two weeks since,
and the next day, service was held.
To my sur-
prise, a plate was passed round to the soldiers, who
had not received pay for six months. They hung
their heads at thought of their empty purses, and a
trifle over four dollars was raised. A few of the
officers gave a mite, the object being to buy a
melodeon. The announcement was made at the
opening of the service, before I entered. Upon
separating, I turned to a Surgeon and asked how
the sum collected was to be appropriated ; and,
upon being told, I said, “it would be nearer right
to spend it in milk and eggs for the poor creatures.”

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A few days after, the Parson entered our cottage,
as I supposed to make a friendly call. I arose and
offered my chair, which he took, hat on, and said :-
“I understand you are opposed to music."
I replied: "Oh no, I like it."
“I say, you are opposed to it. It is your educa-
tion."
“Whatever my education may have been, I say
I like music. My daughter has a piano and has
devoted several years to it.”
“She has overcome your prejudice."
I answered : “ The piano was given to her be-
fore she knew what prejudice meant. I will tell
you that I am opposed to money being taken from
soldiers to purchase a melodeon from which they
can have no benefit."
“That's a falsehood ; it's your prejudice against
music.”
I replied: “I decline to pursue this conversa-
tion."
You came to introduce your sect.”
At this I laughed out, saying: “How absurd !
So far from it, I object to any sect being intro-
duced into the army."
That 's another falsehood," said the little man.
I bade him leave my quarters at once.
The whole
scene was very funny, and resulted in giving up the
melodeon. What a shame to send such a charac-
ter! He has but two friends on the Point.
What is the matter with the New Yorkers, that
they condemn President Lincoln and Secretary
Seward ? It would be very wise to wait a little
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longer. I could not point to a man who has done
better than Mr. Seward. What he does is well
done, and he does not proclaim on the house-top
the private acts of the administration. I am sorry
for those who risk their opinions of such a wise
and far-seeing man as William H. Seward. They
will be weighed in time and found wanting.
The news to-day is glorious. The surgeon-in-
charge has just returned from Washington, and
gives us the morning paper. Take courage ! the
victory will be ours. It is as clear as the sun at
noonday. I never, for a moment, indulge in any
other thought.
Victory and Freedom for all! that is my motto.
Doctor Stearns called this P.M. with another
paper. Glorious news !” he exclaimed. He was
succeeded by Allison and Stonelake. Tell them
(the croakers) to “look aloft. It is always dark-
est before day.”
We have lovely weather and delight in the sea
breezes. I seem to forget to tell you that one of
the doctors called us up on the night of the first
of September, to see a moonlight rainbow; the
colors were perfect and the arch complete. It
was a magnificent sight at eleven P.M.
The father of our family made us a pleasant
visit, and had scarcely turned toward home when
a contraband called me to her tent. I soon re-
turned, and set Mary and Sally to work shaping
garments for a baby. The nurses came with their
offerings of little skirts and petticoats, and made
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Sally converted two gingham kerchiefs into a
slip. The day but one after, I took the fat little
boy and gave him a bath and dressed him. He
looked pretty and cunning. I wrapped up the
little fellow and carried him through all the wards.
Such a merry-making made the patients forget, for
a time, their wounds and fractured limbs. Doctor
Comegys, from the eastern shore of Maryland, was
so kind, that I desire to put it on record.
The next day poor Henry Otto died. A few
hours after his papers came that he so longed for,
that he might have the poor comfort of dying at
home. Another died the same day under like cir-
cumstances.
A few days ago, one of our best men from Mas-
sachusetts received a letter telling him that his
house was destroyed by fire. His only child, four
years old, was so badly burned as to live but three
hours after, and his wife was seriously injured by
a fall. He was disconsolate. He is twenty-seven
years old. I passed the most of last First Day in
his room.
He tried to bear up manfully, but the
affliction was grievous.
On Monday, Cameron died in his chair.
The day was very warm, and by the kindness of
Mr. Rockwell we had a refreshing drive through
shady pines. We went in the butcher's wagon-
Mr. Rockwell, Dr. Stearns, Mary, Sally, and my-
self.
Many thanks for all your care in sending the
very liberal and valuable stores, and securing for
them free passage. The butter was good ; thanks

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to the blessed giver. The soldiers rejoiced, and
the doctors say it is the very thing for them. Poor
souls ! some who could not take food before have
already got up an appetite. One hundred and
twenty-five slices of bread were spread and carried
at once to the hospital. Everything arrived in
good condition, and our time is devoted to the
cooking and administering. We rejoice in the
generous friends.
I was directed to the guard-house this morning,
where I found a bright-looking boy, black as the
ace of spades. Thomas Loker, his master, who
lives twenty-five miles from this place, had him
tied up and flogged. His body, from neck to
heels, was thickly covered with marks of the lash,
I said:
What did you do to get such a lashing ?'
He told me his master had charged him with
attempting to run to the Yankees. I gave him a
shirt and pants, the cooks fed him, and to-day he
goes to work with a light heart, on the grounds.
There seems to be an excitement on our waters.
Gunboats are passing towards Washington and
Baltimore and Fortress Monroe. Six gunboats
passed yesterday.
We are hourly expecting three hundred patients,
which, in addition to what we have already, will
keep us active. But for our stores, the soldiers
would have suffered much. The doctors consider
them a first-rate blessing.
Thank Mr. Langdell, in strong language, for the
solidified milk—the best I ever saw. The grains
66

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are finer, and it is free from the flavor peculiar to
it. We fix it in a variety of ways for the sick, and
they like it very much.
This afternoon, they have cocoa for supper. We
are kept very busy, with two stoves at our com-
mand, two colored cooks, and a waiter and runner,
and we cook for over one hundred. I give out the
rations, go through the hospitals twice a day, re-
ceive innumerable calls from nurses and surgeons,
and do all sorts of chores besides. The
surgeons
take us to the dying patients on the “Sisters' side,"
and we supply them with delicacies they would not
otherwise get. Their convalescents often come for
a little comfort, and we are glad to give them a
kindly reception.
Miss Dix has sent us a large supply of currant
jelly, which is especially grateful to scurvy pa-
tients.
Sally and Mary are an immense comfort to the
sick, and work together famously. They see to
the providing of every meal, and the patients give
me a cordial welcome on my morning round. We
were grateful recipients of the well-filled baskets,
and our men as well. The sight of vegetables is
a rare luxury here. Last evening a boat brought
us, among other things for the hospital, three bar-
rels of cabbages, as many onions, and a few beets.
What are they for five hundred men ?
The Commissary says it is going to be better.
Let us hope it may. The Hospital opened, entirely
unprovided for. Whoever heard of inviting ship-
loads of poor fellows, and next to nothing for them

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I am
to eat ? Until our stores came, there was no corn-
starch, farina, jelly, or anything of the kind,
Our old friend, Dr. Gilbert, whom we knew at
Winchester, is made Medical Director of this place.
I'm glad of it. I have the command of the Hos-
pital on our side, and have hitherto held the rank
of General. Last evening, I was promoted, and am
now Major General. We have had half a dozen
skirmishes, but always came off victorious, and are
treated with profound respect. The authorities
here have the idea that we are able to move the
higher powers, and find it wise to please us.
in communication with Washington and can
put a stop to some outrages, of which I keep a
record.
This morning, five nurses arrived fresh from
Boston. I like their looks and they will relieve us
greatly.
We were truly thankful for our stores. The
question has been not how much, but how little
they can exist upon ? The Doctors scold and say
their patients do not get enough. A stronger HEAD
is called for and the inspection of to-day will lead
to that result.
We hope to leave here not later than Third day
next. Shall stop one day in Washington, and from
there, directly home. We expect some new nurses,
which will make us less thoughtful of those we leave
behind.
I feel sorry for the contrabands; they grieve
about our going. Sally Sutherland comes to ask
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came.
to "marry Margaret if I think best.” It is to be
decided before I leave. They talk sensibly about
it, but seem to think if I am not on hand, they can-
not accomplish it.
After a conference with Peter, we agree that it
is best to wait awhile. Peter says, he wishes to
know what his pay will be, and whether he will
have a roof to cover their heads. That is sensible,
I'm sure. Poor souls ! they need somebody to
stand by them.
About two weeks since, a boy of thirteen years
He had been severely whipped and was
scarred all over. I
gave him a jacket that same
day. Yesterday, our old Postmaster kicked and
beat him, and threw him over a tent. He turned
up all right and was full of frolic and fun, and did
not seem at all oppressed by it ; he had never been
used to anything else, and thinks that Point Look-
out is "the best place in the world."
A poor fellow on the “Sisters' side," received a
letter, stating the troubles of his family. He had
had no pay for six months. The day following,
he went to the Point, took off his hat and coat and
lay down under the water. He was taken out, but
too late to save him. It was well, for his mind had
become unsettled, no doubt, on account of his
family.
I laid down my pen to read a letter which gave us
the first account of the death of William Sedgwick.
I often feel as dear Mrs. Sedgwick does-recon-
ciled to seeing the breath leave the poor emaciated
body.

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FROM MARIA WESTON CHAPMAN.
"Jan. 5th, 1863.
“Dear Mrs. Gibbons,
“In case I should not find you at home, let me
wish you the happy New Year in this way that the
President's proclamation ensures us, in changing
the policy of the Country and freeing 3,000,000 of
our fellow countrymen from a terrible bondage and
all the rest of us from a worse. Hurrah ! Hosanna !
Hallelujah ! Laudamus ! Nunc dimittis ! Jubilate !
Amen ! and if there are any other ascriptions and
ejaculations, be sure I have them at heart, though
there be so little room on paper.
“You will find me whenever you and Mr. Gib-
bons can find a moment for the interchange of
congratulations on an event to promote which you
have done so much.
FROM REBECCA D. GIBBONS.
60
“ Wilmington, Jan’y. 11th, '63.
. . Two weeks ago, a very good political
sermon was preached in our church. One man
went out at the end of the first prayer. He, they
said, was prayed out; but, in the evening, seven
got up and left with considerable stir. Before
morning, the report was all over town that 'seven
devils had been cast out,' and their names given.
I have taken our new Minister under my wing to
save him from going among the rebels.
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FROM DR. WALKER.
Cambridge, Jan. 22, 1863.
“ All I can do in this war is to save as much as
possible out of my reduced income, and devote it
to the relief of the sick and wounded, friend or foe.
This, I am sure, is a Christian duty. I am aware
that the fifty dollars which I now enclose to you,
is but a drop in the ocean, but I am certain that
in your hands it will go farther, and do more good,
than in any other. For the rest, my views and
expectations of the struggle now going on, grow
every day more and more gloomy. I am indignant
at the perpetrators of the outrage committed on
your premises as mentioned in your husband's let-
ter. The damage, I suppose, is not considerable,
and the mortification nothing; but it is a serious
thing, considered as revealing the temper of the
times. There can no longer be any doubt, that
what are called the Loyal States make up a house
divided against itself. With an excited and divid-
ed people, ready for any change; with a govern-
ment which never seems to have commanded the
respect, to any great extent, even of the party which
raised it to power; and with the probability that
it will soon be controlled and finally displaced
by the ascendency of the rival party, full of an-
tagonistic prejudices highly inflamed; under these
circumstances, it seems to me that a person must be
more or less than man, not to have his misgivings.
Of course the right will triumph at last ; but before
that time comes, I am afraid we are to see some
25

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[1862-
Abby bopper Gibbons
of the results of a presumptuous attempt to take
the government out of the hands of God. I some-
times think that the bloody course of this miserable
rabble is intended to enforce, in all coming time, the
Quaker doctrine of peace.
“I hear from various sources, that in the hospital
where you were last autumn, you and your daugh-
ter were regarded as ministering angels; and I
have no doubt it will be so wherever you go. I
almost envy you the good you are doing.
The outrage to which Doctor Walker refers in
this letter was the blacking of the front door and
doorstep, which were covered with coal-tar as a
consequence of the family having illuminated the
house in honor of President Lincoln's Proclama-
tion of Emancipation.
JOURNAL.
and month, ist, 1863, Washington, D. C.
I shall see Assistant Secretary of War, P. H.
Watson, to-morrow, and obtain from him free
transport for our stores. There is a sorry set of
sinners here, and many very nice people. We are
in haste to be gone and only await privileges.
We reached Washington about 7 P. M., had a
cordial welcome from our kind friends, George E.
Baker and family, and since that evening, have had
no time for writing. I went to the rooms of the
Sanitary Commission, Tribune, and then to the
Capitol, where I heard Wickliffe and Lovejoy ;
and, finally, stated my need on a scrap of paper

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66
ner, said:
and had it fully endorsed by Senator Fessenden,
who is said to have influence with the Secretary
of War, and, next morning, accompanied by my
daughter and Adams S. Hill, called at the Depart-
ment; and, awaiting my turn, said to Secretary
Stanton : “What I ask, you will find on this sheet
in a very few words, and on the back of it, an en-
dorsement by Senator Fessenden.”
He gave it a skim and in a huffy tone and man-
Can't grant it.”
“Will you allow me to say a word, if you
please?"
“No words that can be spoken will change my
action."
His manner was most ungracious. We left his
presence, and, the same evening, I dined by invi-
tation with Senator Howard and wife, Colfax and
others. After dinner, Senator Wilson called ex-
pressly to see me and learn what I wanted. All
were indignant at the conduct of Mr. Stanton.
Mr. Colfax said he would see him about it, and
Mr. Wilson offered to accompany me to see him
again. I hope a couple of days will set us all
right regarding our nurses.
Of course I made many inquiries about Mr.
Seward, and I am strong in the faith, and will state
what I know to be true, not caring to have others
believe as I do, but warning them that time will
reveal the facts—that he is not demented and that
the statements made by Wendell Phillips, in his
Amen to the Proclamation,” are untrue--noth-
ing short.
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I have not seen the Surgeon-General, but such
is the state of feeling between him and Secretary
Stanton, that the right policy is to deal with the
latter first. It is a shame that the departments
should suffer from want of harmony.
The reason we are not at Point Lookout is that
the steamer is not ready for us. We hope to go
to-morrow, while there may be a day or so further
delay. We are not idle, for I have passed much
time with the contrabands, and if the stores were
at my disposal, they should share the bounty.
Many are sick and a great many die ; to the grief
of survivors, who feel it very hard that, after a
long life of misery, and when on the verge of lib-
erty, they must be separated by death.
I was much impressed, while sitting at the bed-
side of a dying girl of seventeen years. There
was a smile on her face, and I could only say to
her afflicted mother: “Let her go, there is rest in
Heaven.” She believed it and I rejoiced for her.
There is an interesting girl, who is watching over
them-a Miss Andrews, from Newburyport. She
is one of ten thousand ; an earnest, bright, joyous
girl. There will always be a place for her, but she
feels the need of such experience as will benefit
the sick. At the request of William H. Channing
and George E. Baker, I have written to New-York,
in the hope of securing such assistance as to ren-
der the condition of these people much more
hopeful.
We find much to do here, in a way least thought
of. Our home at Mrs. Chipman's gives us an op-

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portunity to open the eyes of Senators and others,
who are astounded at some of the revelations we
make. We are surprised at their want of knowl-
edge. Senator Fessenden said he regretted not
being introduced to us at an earlier period, but
should make use of the material gathered.
Men of influence are strangely ignorant, and
urge my writing out, for the Tribune, the facts
given last evening, which were elicited by Senator
Fessenden and grew out of an incidental conver-
sation. I had the floor without being aware of it.
When I think of our countrymen, of our friends,
of the young men of promise who lay down their
lives, of the homes made desolate, I cannot be si-
lent regarding the abuses that exist in all direc-
tions. Those are censured who least deserve it.
Truly it may be said : “ The innocent are pun-
ished and the guilty go free."
The Surgeon-General is disappointing the very
men who gave him his present position. He is
ignorant and overbearing, and makes manifest the
lack of discrimination of those who thus elevated
him. I called at his office on a matter of business.
S. H. G. and M. L. P. were with me. If he had
been occupied, or had gentlemen been waiting, an
excuse might be given him ; but he was alone and
at liberty. The truth is, he is at war with Prot-
estant nurses, and is using his best endeavors to
introduce the “Sisters,” who are mere machines in
a hospital, and not allowed to extend sympathy to
the poor men. It is a disgrace that such imposi-
tions are practiced. Time will make manifest the

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shortcomings of men in high places, and a better
condition will follow.
Of all the slow places in the wide world, this ex-
ceeds. The everlasting red-tape holds us ; but my
hope is active and we expect to get to the end soon.
We receive many invitations to dine, etc., from
distinguished people, but cannot accept, as it is
not what we are here for. I have the best of times
with Mrs. Grimes, and yesterday passed an hour
with her husband in his Committee room. He is
genial and kind, and helps us with our Bill. He
says it will pass-perhaps with some Amendments.
The North must do something for this Institu-
tion when it enters upon its work. Mr. Grimes is
a sensible man and has faith in woman.
February 12, 1863.- I have had a very busy two
weeks and am pleased with the result. By invita-
tion of Mrs. Grimes, I attended a meeting of
women (in all about thirty), and among them were
the most influential here. I had the honour of
organizing an Association, preparing Articles, and
getting up a Bill, which was presented to Congress,
passed both Senate and House, and gave a general
grant of land-one hundred acres. It is for the
relief of coloured women and children. A vote of
thanks was passed by the ladies, who had never
acted in Society capacity and were grateful for small
favours.
The fact is, my new cloak gave me an air of
respectability, for which I am indebted to Julia, -
but more, perhaps, to her dear good Grandfather's
It was whispered that I was a relative, and,
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when Mrs. Grimes asked me what relation, and I
answered "a daughter," there was no longer a
doubt of the complete success of the enterprise.
She said she never saw so many prominent ladies
together in Washington, and engaged in such a
work, too. It was interesting to witness the ear-
nestness and determined zeal which characterized
the proceedings. This done I am ready for work
elsewhere.
I have persevered until I have accomplished all
I desire, and this day gives me control of the Hos-
pital at Point Lookout.
Hon. Peter H. Watson has done splendidly for
me, and, as for the Surgeon-General, he was ready
to get on his bended knees !! I left my card a
few days ago, not finding him; and when he
learned through Dr. Douglas whose card it was,
he sent me a polite message that he would have
seen me, but thought it was a gentleman's hand-
writing. He was profoundly gracious.
It did one's heart good to meet such a man as
Secretary Watson ; his manner was extremely
courteous and kind; he told me he would always
consider with pleasure any question I desired to
present, and would act in any matter coming under
my personal notice.
He took notes of what I told him about the late
insubordination at the Point. The poor fellow,
who presumes upon his wealth and Buttons, will
find “it is not all gold that glitters.”
It is an immense undertaking to carry a question
through. The first move is to find out the rela-

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tions of Heads of the different departments. This
I have done thoroughly, and, by management, se-
cured the desired end.
At the request of Mrs. Seward, I called upon
her yesterday. She is very feeble, and unable to
go out, but cheerful and lovely. She said she re-
gretted her husband was not at home, and wished
we might meet. She pressed me to dine with them.
I declined for many reasons-mainly that I did not
wish it, as I could be of no interest to a man,
great, as I consider him. I enquired about his
health ; she replied, "he is much better than usual
this winter. He sleeps well, which is proof.”
February 21, 1863.—We left Washington at ten
A.M., in the Matamora, Capt. Van Valkenburgh.
There were on board D. L. Dix and ourselves-
eight in number ; Capt. McCoun, a nephew of
Judge McCoun, and a friend of his by the name
of Fellowes. Capt. McCoun had in charge forty-
seven deserters, on their way to Fortress Monroe
to be court martialed. While we were on board
at ten, we did not leave the wharf until one o'clock
—had to wait for deserters. Col. Rucker sent an
officer down to see that we were comfortably pro-
vided for. The Captain received us as distin-
guished guests, declining to look at our credentials.
He gave us supper, and, this morning, breakfast-
stopped at the Point and left us with all sorts of
pleasant words and good wishes. We arrived here
about 9 A.M., having anchored for the night at
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We were received on landing by innumerable
people-officers, surgeons, Quartermaster Edwards,
&c. We had our choice of quarters and objected
decidedly to the proposition that Miss Heald should
vacate her rooms. She had arranged them so
prettily I would not hear to it.
The Surgeon-in-charge tells me to take what I
want. He gives us a private kitchen, with cooking
stove, and two rooms for our accommodation, with
one for Grace Sedgwick next to us. So we are
snug as snug can be. He is having them white-
washed and painted, and we are occupying others
for a day or so. They would have been ready,
but for the disturbance with the Major, who has
been ordered off the Point. Brown has not a man
to stand by him, excepting a few of the “ Lost
Children.”
We have been receiving calls all day-now 4
o'clock—and I suppose it will be kept up till bed-
time. To-morrow, we shall go through our wards,
and, on Second day, each nurse will be assigned to
special duty. Grace seems very happy ; Emma is
doing nicely, and all were amused at the remarks
of the men.
As we passed, one of the sick said to
Miss Heald : Best looking set of nurses I ever
had the pleasure of seeing !” We had a great
welcome.
64
FROM J. S. G.
“ New-York, Feb. 28th, '63.
“Your letters, one from each, came in good time.
I have to-day shipped twenty packages great and

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small, by Government Transport Sparks. Don't
have your imaginations unduly excited about the
contents. Number “100 " is the last box packed.
It contains shawl, tacks, biscuit, lint, &c. &c., and
a ball for the boys."
JOURNAL.
Everybody says my Hood is splendid and I am
greatly indebted to Julia for making it. Enclosed
in a letter from Julia was the following note :
“We, the girls of Miss Stone's School, have been
trying to see what we could do for the sick and
wounded soldiers. Knowing that a large portion
of your time is spent among them, and that you
will faithfully apply the little contribution, we have
selected you as the one to dispose of the sum of
$350.00.
(Signed)
Emily Atwood.
Marie Jacobs.
“ To Mrs. Gibbons."
66
FROM JULIA.
“ March, 1863.
“To-day Miss Stone gave me a check for
$350.00, the proceeds of a Fair. The children of
her School are greatly excited about it, and want
to know what is going to become of it &c. I told
Miss Stone that thee would write them a letter
and, perhaps, commission them to make some pur-
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got up entirely by the scholars and Mrs. Post and
her daughters ; so don't forget to mention them in
thy letter. Miss Stone has also given me some
shirts and sacks made by the school-children,
which I shall put in one of our boxes. Do write
soon, for they are in a fever to know what effect
such an immense amount of money will have on
thy mind.”
END OF VOLUME I.








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