56 John Bachman. 



earthly pilgrimage is to be brought to a close. It 

 struck me as somewhat strange that I should be 

 torn, at so early an age. from my wife, my children, 

 and my people. But I recalled to my mind how 

 many had, under similar circumstances, been re- 

 moved from the midst of their families and useful- 

 ness, and I ceased to murmur. I liad, for some 

 3^ears, made no will. My property had undergone 

 some changes, and my affairs in the North and 

 South, were not satisfactorily settled ; but I found 

 my mind was not strong enough to support the in- 

 vestigation. With a heavy heart, I turned my 

 thoughts to my dear family. I had lived with my 

 wife for tvrelve years. She had been one of the 

 most fond and affectionate of wives. Her life had 

 been devoted to me ; and with her I had spent the 

 happiest years of my life. Never had two persons 

 lived more harmoniousl}^; and to die now, far 

 away from her, was most distressing — and then my 

 seven little children. Where is the parent who can 

 be willing to part from these, without casting one 

 longing, lingering look behind? But I remem- 

 bered the promises of God. *♦*>!< 

 Then I began to inquire, Is thy heart right with 

 God? It was a solemn inquiry. I remembered that 

 my life had been far from perfect, and that in my 

 younger years, I had been rather wild. Still I re- 

 membered, too, that I liad early commenced the 

 study of divinity, and undeviatingly endeavored to 

 pursue the path of integrity and usefulness. Through 

 the mercy of a Saviour, I hoped I could look forward 

 to the salvation of my soul. But before I had time to 

 go over half the ground, I found an inexpressible 

 satisfaction and joy within. Nothing that this 

 world can afford, can ever be equal to it. There 

 were no forebodings, no fears, no doubts, and I was 

 enabled inwardlv to say, '' deatli, where is thy 



