prison life and reflections

Front matter

¥ Dyiaiorien

Duquesne University:

PRISON LIFE AND REFLECTIONS: OR A NARRATIVE

Preface

Reaver, do you know the heart of a prisoner ? Are you a friend of convicts? If not, you may not be much interested in the following pages— for they tell you much about the inside of a prison, and its suffering inmates. They are not confined entirely to the strict history of Alanson Work, James E. Burr, and George Thompson—they tell you much about other prisoners—much about the officers—somcething about the Governors, and Legislators, and ministers of a slave State—they tell you a little about the poor slave—the spirit of slaveholders—the influence and effects of slavery, and numcrous incidents, with brief reflcctions, on various subjects.

You will not charge me with telling something about somebody of whom I know rothing—or with attempting to describe imaginary scenes—or tell-

1V PREFACE.

ing of something that occurred, nobody knows where—for “I speak that I do know, and testify that I have seen,” heard, and experienced. The book is principally a compilation from our prison writings—mostly from my own, as the greater part of that which came from the pens of my “ companions in tribulation,” has been lost, or I was not able to obtain it.

However, as we all lived together, I was constituted by mutual consent, the scribe or secretary.

In my journal, I recorded for all. When we came into our cell at night, if either had seen or heard any thing during the day, that was of interest, he made it known, and it was recorded by the secretary. Of the writings which are lost, the most valuable are their letters, which were written from time to time, and would give a better idea of their individual feelings, than I can in my own language—yet our feelings were so similar, and so nearly tn unison did our hearts beat, that the reader must fecl when reading mine, that he is in them, reading the feclings of the other two brethren.

I have been obliged to omit and pass by much that I desired to insert. Much of my journal—

PREFACE. v many letters, and various incidents, have been excluded.

The reader need not expect connection of subjects, or beauty of style, or elegance of language, or logical reasoning. I have mentioned things, generally, as they occurred, in their order, without regard to connection. In some places, I have classified things of the same kind. The style, and language, are the spontancous overflowings of my soul—in words which most readily presented themselves to my mind. And I have endeavored to present every thing in its proper, natural light. The whole has been written in great haste, amid cares and anxicties.

When speaking of other prisoners, I have withheld all names, for reasons I need not mention. When speaking of officers, I have given names, And I think no one can charge me with partiality —I have endeavored to give both sides. When they acted like men, I have said so—when they played the part of brutes, or demons, I have mentioned it. If they were kind, I have given them credit—if crucl], it is charged against them. If they complain of any one, they must complain of themselves—if Missourians are disgraced, or convi PREFACE.

demned, they themselves have done it. I have recorded facts.

If they are enraged, because the world has looked in upon their abominations, let the thought that God will expose them to the wniverse, compose their troubled consciences. If they are vexed with themselves, because they have so long harbored an enemy in their midst, let me say to them, as they said to us—‘ Just mind your own business, next time, and let other people alone.” They must have been fools indeed, to suppose they could press a viper to their bosom without being wounded—or tread on coals, without being burned—or that they could iay open their hearts before a ‘ died-in-the-wool abolitionist,’ and not expect that it would be laid before the world—or that an oppossum is dead. merely because he does not kick, and squall, when beaten by his enemy.

If the Reader is not a christian, he will here see the excellency, and importance of that religion, which will support and cheer its possessor in all possible conditions in life. And oh! that he may be influenced to choose a friend, who will never forsake—a guide who will never mistake. If he zs a Christian, I trust he will, in the following pages, learn the secret of having the

PREFACE. vil mind kept in “ perfect peace,” though billows dash, and tempests roar—of being filled with a “joy unspeakable, and full of glory,’ though surrounded by a darkness, as dense as Egyptian—and of “re- Joicing in the Lord alway,” though he “die daily”—namely, trusting in God, rationally, sincerely, tmplicitly, and continually.

The book has not been written to make money, nor to get a name—but to do good. I felt it to be my duty, to write such a book, long before I left my cell—and thcre the most of it was written.

I have endeavored to exhibit our own feelings— as also those of our enemics. I have tricd to exhibit the circumstances, and influcnees, by which we were surrounded, that the grace of God might the more be magnified, in our preservation from the jaws of destruction—in our deliverance from the oppressor’s power.

Reader, you will here sce the faithfulness of God to his promises—you will sce tne unfaithfulness of man. You will get a glimpse at the sufferings of a portion of your fellow creatures, of whom perhaps you never thought much, and if by- reading this book, you shall be induced to “remember them in bonds as bound with them,” JY shall not have spent my time in yain.

Vili PREFACE.

Part first, includes an account of the time we were in the County Jail, trial, sentence, &c.

Part second, comprises about sixtecn and a halt months, under the government of John Gorden and William Burch.

Part third, embraces the remainder of our history, under James Brown, Capt. Richmond, Blaine, and Co., &c.

That every one who reads the following pages, may be stimulated to labor more zealously for suf fering humanity, is the desire and prayer of

THE AUTHOR.

Oberlin, April 9, 1847.

PART FIRST. CHAP Te Roald

Description of the prisoners—residence—motives and principles by which governed—tour of mercy—light in the darkness—betrayed— taken and bound—confidence in God--conduct of enemies—-letter from Alanson to a brother—do. to his wife—extracts of letters from George.

17—25.

CHAPTER Il.

Alanson’s journal—a murderer bailed—reflections of Quincy Committee—Alanson’s journal, - ° - - 25—31.

CHAPTER Wf.

Poetry, why in prison—George’s journal—the library and our feelings—journal—letter from George—letter from James—journal, poor men in slave states, the vile woman--Patrollers—blasphemy—the

church in slave States—-the leaven working, friendly lawyer, a load of friends visit the jail, valuable cakes, counsel engaged, - 31—47.

x CONTENTS.

CHAPTER IV.

The sleeping preacher—his dream—dark places, full of cruelty— Dr. Ely’s slave--bloody towns—-effects of elavery—devices of the enemy, - - - - - - 47—55.

CHAPTER V.

Letter to Mrs. Ballard—to Moses Hunter—the Missourian’s letter— reflections--the Dr. Bosley affair--letter from James—from Alanson-— from George, - - - - - - 56—64.

CHAPTER VI.

The command—the search—slave women in Palmyra—betrayers— away opened to pass letters--rage of enemies—a slave whipped— promises sweet—letter to the church—sale of human beings—reflections on P. C. L,’s letter-—court—the abolition stand—treatment of our friends—closet mother—the sleeping preacher again—excite-

CHAPTER VII.

Indictments—sbackles off—jury chosen—witnesses, testimony—the pleading—ournal—sentence—our gallows, and murderers---bill of exceptions: and instructions--appeal refused--novel decision--our murderers again, testimony, - - = = 80---97.

CHAPTER VIIL

Journal, twelve years in the penitentiary--a free man mobbed---mob in Cincinnati---the broken will --- unbelief and faith---taking the slave’s place---the last view---the Illinois and Missouri clergymen---

CONTENTS. x1 in chains again--slaveholder’s religion and catholicism--trusting in God--the day of adversity--letter from Alanson, his feelings--letter from George to his parents--to Oberlin Evangelist--the slaveholder’s plan---the accusation, look at it---abrogation of God’s law--‘*The slaves will not run away’’---letters from George to a friend, 98---126.

Chapter I

Journey tothe penitentiary, Sabbath, slaveholder’s idea of happiness ---arrival at Missouri River, - - - 127---132.

Chapter II

Reception at penitentiary—the rules—journal how kept—the first night —the first morning---our cell, poetry—food—work---first Sabbath-- second do.---brick kilns---character of officers-- -of prisoners---flogging---prayer in the cell, singing, reading---Alanson’s first P. Y. letter—George’s do.—chains off—the runaways—our library, reading by moonlight—the fire, - - - 132—160.

Chapter III

Letter from George to a friend—work in the city—a friend—treachery of prisoners—chain off, trustee—the Lord’s supper, poetry---letter writing—conversation—death of Ellen—slaveholders’ conscience quieted—uses of scripture—runaways, - : 160—174.

xu CONTENTS.

Chapter IV

Aman killed—dog buried—funeral sermons—George’s letter to parents —joytul discovery—that ‘‘salt’’ again—letter toa friend—Sabbath shaving, Alanson whipped—the pleasing sight—friend brought letters—extract of answer—our character good in Missouri—slaves escaping—the polyglott Bible—extract of letter—abolition ali the time —the harvest field—a man hung—visit of friends—‘relieving the niggers’—the new cell—‘‘the preachers,” - - 175—194

Chapter V

The first convert—first death bed scene—alone in the woods—fruits on the Sabbath—*‘its out of order,’’ chained for attempting to speak in meeting—the door opening--gazed at—second death bed scene—a prisoner baptized—the sleeping guard—‘‘that won’t count’’—third death bed scene—experience telling meeting—self defence, 194—208.

Chapter V

Cruel Death---A Man pardoned, why---Amalgamation---The False Tongue---The Inspector’s First examination—Correspondence with the Cheplain---Letter froma Missouri Brother---Change of Warxiv CONTENTS.

dens again---New Overseer---Lamps---The Load of Sin---New Responsibilities and Duties---Trials---A Trying Time---The New Year---Letter---A Great Break—The Broken Arm—Letter to Mra. Beardsley---Cutting Hair and Head Shaving---Dr: Ely---Gov. Reynolds murdered---Class organized and broken up. - 278—305.

Chapter VI

Some [nteresting Cases---Poetry, ‘‘Release of a Prisoner’’---Intercession for Alanson---Executive Responsibility---James and the Lawyer---James and Alanson outside---Letters from them---Conversation with a Legislator; Reflections---Female Prisoners---A Prohibition —New Order—‘‘My Cup runneth over’—Searching Cells—Narrow Escapes. & = - - 305—323,

Chapter VII

Fifth Death Bed Scene—Reflestions now—Letter to Parents—The Beaten Horse—The Slave and Liberty—The Holy Spirit—The Slave and his Crime—Equality of Slaveholders’ Laws—Our Reformer—The Little Cloud—Men made worse—The Fourth of July —~Letter to a Brother—Condition of Discipleship--Letters from James—My Dreams—The Incendiary Letter—My Deposition— Letter—Benefit of Affliction—Inspectors’ Second Examination.

324—342.

Chapter VIII

False Names—A Note of Thanks—Tasks—The Sick; Reflections— Recommittents—Extract from James’ Letter—From George’s — The Christian Slave—A Break; Cruelty—Like seeks Like—The Unjust Law—New Chaplain—Deaths—Talk with Legislators — Monthly Concerts—Fighting—Our Stove—George an Assistant to the Chaplain—Holyday; Preyer Meeting. - - 342-360.

CONTENTS. XV

Chapter IX

Sixth Death Bed Scene—Letter to the Widow—New Year—Effort for Alanson’s Release—Talk with Legislators— Alanson pardoned; Poetry; Weak Minds; The Pardon—Letter from Alanson—he Lying Missourian—A Man Murdered—A Funeral Sermon—The Colporteur—The Great Cross—The Temperance Lecturer—Prayer with Prisoners—Did he love Liberty? —Sabbath Working—A Slave’s Theology. = - - - - 360—373.

Chapter X

The Chaplain driven away— The Converted Sailor— Treatment of Sick —Slaveholders Converted— Seventh Death Bed Scene— The Universalist’s Death Bed —Bibles—Tgmperance Pledge; Tobacco, &c.—Holyday, and Prayer Meeting—Capt. Gorden’s Humanity!—Extract of a Letter—‘‘Abolition Niggers’”—The Unfortunate Family —Inspector’s Third Examination— ‘Not this Man, but Barrabbas’’—-Pope G.—Fussing Guard— Address to Governor E, poetry— More pardoned—-A case of cruelty— Nothing against me—Visit from Friends; Rich Blessings—Slaveholder’s Christianity —Ducking—New Preacher— New Prisoner,

3738—393.

Chapter XI

Another Interesting Case— James fainted—A Day of Fasting and Prayer —Catholics—Petition for us—Chase and Judge B.— Letter to Gov. E,—Secretary of State talked with us—James pardoned—Poetry—New Cell Mate—The Slave’s Request— Hoge cout—Conversation with Stringfellow—Converts—Fugitive Miesionary—The Lord defended me—Last Communion—Miss Dix —Capt. G.’s Sabbath Breaking— Conversation with a Sick Convert—Poetry, Torrey's Death. - = “ - 393—409,

XVI CONTENTS.

Chapter XII

The aged Father’s Visit to his Son in Prison— Conversation about my private sentiments— Why not do so again—Slaveholders deceived—My Release—Conversation with the Governor—Time of J mprisonment—Farewell Reflections—Concluding Address to the

PRISON LIFE AND REFLECTIONS.

CHAPTER I. MOTIVES, ARREST, IMPRISONMENT, &e

Tue subjects of this narrative are ALAnson Work, James E. Burr, and Grorcre Thompson. The former was aman about forty years old—having a wife and four children—he was living at the Mission Institute, for the sake of educating his children, and training them up for usefulness. “The other two persons, were young men studying fer the ministry.

The Mission Institute being situated near the Mississippi River, and just across the River from a Slave State, (Missouri) we could, as it were, hear the crack of the Overseer’s whip—the shricks and groans of those wno were suffering its crucl inflictions. Their earnest cries for help—their sighs for deliverance— their importunate entreaties, as they rchearsed to us their tales of woe, reached our ears, and our hearts melted with pity, while the resolution was formed to respond to their call; and if need be, risk our own liberty, and lives, to effect their rescue.

Inasmuch as we desired mercy from the ‘God of heaven,” should we at any time, be brought into trouble, we did not dare to shut our eyes, nor

18 A TOUR OF MERCY.

our ears, nor our hearts, nor to restain our hands from delivering them out of their troubles—remembering, ‘‘ Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, and shall not be heard.” We knew if we were in their condition, we should feel very thankful to any one, who would render us the desired assistance; and then calling to mind the gospel rule, “ As ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so unto them,” we felt impelled to lend a helping hand. Likewise the command to love our neighbor as ourselves, impressed upon us the same obligation—so that we made up our minds, with earnest prayer for divine guidance, and anxious consultatioa, in view of these and many other principles and commands, to make the attempt—to “rid them out of the hand of the oppressor.”

About the first of July, 1841, James with another brother, made a tour of mercy into Missouri, which resulted in an agreement with two slaves, to meet them at a certain point on the river, on a certain evening, to assist them across the river, on their way to freedom. On the day appointed, we went, arriving at the place about the middle of the afternoon. Alanson and James, went into the country to view and reconnoitre, while I remained in the skiff to fish, and await their return. While thus alone my prayer was, “O Lord, I beseech thee, send us good speed this day.” And we now feel that the prayer was abundantly answered—though in a very different way from what we expected. We desired the liberation of the slaves. God knew how to bring it about, better than we did. We longed to be instrumental in doing something for our brethren in bonds. God granted us our hearts’ desire. And a happy day for the slaves of Missouri was it, when we were taken captive, bound, and incarcerated in their midst. This was placing the light just where it was most needed— in the dense darkness—and where it made visible

DISCOVERY AND ARREST. 19 the abominations that prevailed. Blessed be God! After dark, a number of slaves came to Alanson and James, in the prairie, and pretended they were going with them. They had proceeded but a short distance, when on a sudden, the slaveholders arose out of the grass, with their rifles, and took them prisoners—placing the muzzle of their guns to their breasts, and repeatedly threatening, “1 will shoot him any how”——but the mercy of the Lord prevailed. They were bound, and taken to a house, where they were kept, while the blood-hounds came in hot pursuit of me. I was in the skiff At first three or four slaves came, and approaching the bank very cautiously, one asked, “ Are you a friend?” I replied, “I am.” 1 had talked with them but a short time, when suddenly I heard another kind of a salutation, “Come out of that, or I'll blow you through!” I looked up, and two guns were pointed at me, from the bank. I was obedicnt to my new commanders—dropped my fishing pole, and marched up to them, in secret cjaculations, committing myself to God, to do with me as He saw best. Though the thing was so perfectly unlooked for, and unthought of, the Lord stood by me, saying, “fear nol, 1 am with thee”—and my mind was calm— my soul composed—and my faith unwavering, that all was right and for the best. Of what was before me, I could form no conception, but felt that infinite wisdom and goodness would lead me. Sudden death seemed quite probable, amid their numerous threats to shoot me; “but none of these things moved me, neither counted I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy” in the holy cause of suffering humanity. To die for the slave, 1 felt willing, if this was the thing needed—the Lord being Judge.

I was bound, and marehed barefoot, over hubs, roots, and stones. Host after host came with all speed to meet us, and “the earth rang again” with

20 LED AWAY BY ROPES.

their fiendish yells. It seemed almost as if the infernal regions had been uncapped, and had vomited forth their legions to hail our approach, as if some Jong dreaded monster had been captured. But oh! how swect it was to feel that they could not go beyond what my Father should kindly and wisely permit. This kept me in peace.

After they had eaten supper, they marched us some miles through the woods to another house. They made the slaves lead us by a rope, and sing “ corn scngs.” Those who have lived in a Slave State will know what is meant. It seemed as if the very forests themselves were moved at the bursts of such uncarthly sounds—and if there were any wild beasts in the region, they must have fled for their lives, to their caverns, or dens, or more distant forests. When we came to the sees we were marched round it time and again; and when we ha!ted in iront of the piazza, the old grand-father and mother, and children—old

and young—male and female, came out in their night dresses to gaze upon the wonderful monsters. The old grandfather, tottering just on the verge of the grave, gave a little vent to his boiling soul, in the exclamation—* Ah! you gallows- looking, devils!” After their curiosity was somewhat gratified, we laid us down upon a feather bed, on the floor—all tied together—and slept sweetly till morning. We awoke refreshed and strengthened to endure the reproaches and sufferings which were before us, with patience, fortitude, and I trust submission. That morning a man came in to see us, who asked many questions, and made, threats of shooting us on the spot. He was a professor of religion—s seemed very much excited, and had hard struggles to keep from drawing his pistols on us, but * the good hand of our God upon us,” saved us from his burning fury.

At the breakfast table, we asked a blessing on our food, while the landlady and others stood by.

“ THRUST INTO PRISON.” Q1

She seemed almost horror struck, that such wretches as we should pray /!—for she looked upon us as monsters of iniquity. The poor woman seemcd to have some idea of the numerical strength of the Abolitionists—for said she, “They are as thick down there in the bottoms, as maggots in a dead horse, watching for slaves.” And so terrified was she at the thought, that she had not been able to slecp soundly for two weeks! Poor woman! Who can help prtying one, who is obliged to live in such constant fear?

After breakfast, a crowd gathered round, who questioned us in many things, and gave vent to their raging bosoms, in sneers and reproaches. We were then tied together, and led by the slaves (to mortify us) five miles, !o Palmyra. The city was moved at our approach, many saying, “Who are these?” “Well you’ve made a fine haul,” &c. In the court house, we had a mock trial before a magistrate and were “ thrust into Prison,” to await the sitting of the court, two anda half months from that time. After they had Ieft us, we knelt down, and committed ourselves to God, imploring his guidance and protection, fecling that He had wise purposes to accomplish by this unintelligible dispensation.

The following from Alanson to a brother in Quincy, will give further particulars.

LETTER.

Dear Brorurr:

Iam a prisoner in a land, where to tell a man, made in the image of his Maker, that he has a right to frecdom, is a crime of the deepest dye. James and I walked four or five miles back into the country. The first human being that we saw, was a woman and her son hoeing tobacco. James spoke to her, and I walked on. He found that she wanted to be free, and agreed to help her. We next came

Qu LETTER FROM PRISON.

to a house; James went in, and learned from a slave, (the whites being absent) that the slaves he had seen before, were in the field alone. We went to them, it being now sunset. We asked them if they were going—they told us they werg and that one, hving a mile from them, where they had some clothes to get, was going with them, and that they would come three hours after dark. We were seen by white men while with the slaves. After dark, we came and waited, anxiously listening for the signal. After some time we heard a distant whistle, and by answering repeatedly, soon came to five slaves—three fourths or four fifths of a mile from the river, on a bottom prairie. After salutations and professions, we started in a foot path for the river, rejoicing in the prospect of helping the oppressed to liberty and happiness— when suddenly three men arose from the high grass. The slaves having betrayed us, now seized us, bound our hands, and marched us back, in triumph to the first house. A company then started, and after two hours, returned with Brother George,—the slaves singing and shouting—making a song for the occasion. We were soon put on the march for the residence of one of the party, two or three miles distant—each of us being led by a slave—others following, weaving the past‘ and present circumstances, with our future prospects, into a song, which they made to echo through the woods, to the great satisfaction of their masters and friends, who were on horseback. When we arrived at the house, we were marched around, and stared at as little less than Infernals. The language used, I will not attempt to describe. The next morning we were tied together, and taken on foot to Palmyra—being led ey slaves, and escorted by fifteen horsemen. We were taken to the court house, a warrant issued against us—witnesses examined, and we committed, for stealing slaves(!) We were not permitted to speak for ourselves, but were taken to

LETTER TO MRS. W. 93

Jail, and the doors closed upon us. Under these trying circumstances we looked up to Him, who came to preach “ deliverance to the captives, and the opening of prison doors to them that are bound,” and found the promise of God precious to our souls.

Soon after dark, the Sheriff, Jailer, and others came in, and made us fast to a chain fifteen or sixteen fees long. One end of the chain was made fast to the wall. Near the other end, an iron was put through a link and riveted around my ankle. Brother Burr was placed about two feet from me, and George about two feet farther.”

To his wife, Alanson wrote:

“ My Dear Wife:—I write from Palmyra Jail. The wallis about four feet thick, made of two thicknesses of hewed logs with, one foot of stone between them, and the outside brick. We feel that God is here. Send to us if you can. We have asked for a Bible, a Hymn Book and paper. They reply, “ yes,” but do not. (Nearly a week elapsed, before we could geta Bible from any of them—at length an impenitent Lawyer brought us his.) Our enemies rejoice over us. Pray that we may be Christ-like. Be not troubled: the Lord will provide, and protect. Myself and companions sit on the floor. We have three or four (very poor) blankets fora bed. Our food is corn bread and bacon, which we eat with our fingers; but we have meat to eat which they know not of—*a contented mind is a continual feast.” Jam not anxious about myself, but feel that “tribulation will work patience.” I feel that if you will trust in God, He will make “all things work together for your good”—and this affliction prove a blessing to you, and give an impulse to the cause of truth and mercy. We know not our destiny, but fear the worst, and trust we shall be prepared for it.”

24 EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS.

On the same piece of paper I wrote: “ Dear Bro. Hunter, if we could see you and Mr. Warren, we should like it. It is evident they are determined to send us to Jefferson. Two men were sworn who testified falsely. Can you come? We rejoice in our chains. May the Lord direct.”

On the same J wrote to the church of which we were members.

“Brethren and Sisters, you may think we repent the step we have taken. Not at all. We feel that we are in chains for ‘Jesus’ sake. The 2d, 3d, and 4th chapters of | Peter are very precious to us, as also, the whole “Leiter of our Father.’ We feel that good will result from our being here—that our Master knows bést what kind of a school we need. We can now sympathize with the slave as never before. We know how the chain feels. But our trials are light, compared with his. Pray for us. Our only hope is in God. Pray in faith—God will hear.

Yours in bonds, GEORGE.

About the same time, (July 15,) I wrote to M. C., “J am now separated from you very unexpectedly— but however the case may turn, I know the “Judge of all the earth will do right”—and that ‘all things shall work together for good to them who love God.” You may think that]am unhappy. By no means. I am happy in my Savior.”

July 19. 1 wrote to the same:—“It seems very strange for me to date a letter to you from Prison. Yet so itis. Did you ever imagine such a thing? I had thought of trials and persecutions when we should be far among the heathen, and had imagined the thing possible, that I might be cast into prison in Illinois, ‘for conscience toward God, but such a circumstance

JOURNAL—CONFIDENCE IN GOD. 25 as this, I now realize, I had not thought much about. Yet be assured, Iam happy in my Savior. I have an unshaken confidence that this shall turn out for my good, for your’s, and for the good of Christ’s cause. With this confidence can I be troubled or uneasy? ‘Be careful for nothing; but in every thing, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God, and the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds, through Christ Jesus.’-—PAil. 4: 6, 7. This is very sweet. My Bibleis more than ever precious. Pray for my mother, that this may be sanctified to her present and eternal good. Try and make the same profitable improvement of it yourself. Don’t be overanxious. Roll the care upon Jesus, and there let us leave it. Exercise an unwavering confidence in his providence. Our kind Father has wise reasons for putting me here; and ‘what thou knowest not now thou shalt know hereafter.’ We should be willing to be in just that school that He sees we need. I hope Tam willing. Pray that I may Iearn thoroughly and faithfully the lesson He intends I shall learn. When Ihave learned my lesson well, then I know He will take me out. And should I desire to leave school before I get my lesson? Ohno. [do desire that discipline and instruction which will best qualify me for the greatest usefulness.

Your’s, in chains and gospel bonds, GrorcE.”

Chapter II. Extracts From Alanson’s Journal

July 14-17. Visited often by the sheriff and many others, but still without the means of communicating with our friends. Had many anxious thoughts about my family, from whom I can hear nothing.

26 JOURNAL—GREAT PEACE.

18. Sunday. Our prison was the “house of God and the gate of heaven” to our souls. In the forenoon George talked to our companions (two colored and one white man) about the prodigal son. In the afternoon he spoke on the Judgment day. Jesus was with us, and fed us with the bread of heaven. To me it was the most precious Sabbath I have enjoyed for many months.

19. Feel willing to go to the penitentiary or wherever the Lord wills. This afternoon Esq. Warren and Bro. Hunter came in to see us. (The first we had seen or heard of any of our friends since leaving home.) Wewere happy before, but our happiness was increased on seeing them and learning the sympathy in our behalf.

The goodness of God and the kindness of friends broke my heart. We received books and paper. (We had received from the jailer in the forenoon one sheet of paper for us all, on which I was writing a joint letter to the Church; which was, at the time, published extensively—but now I have it not. This letter the jailer gave to Bro. H. without showing it to the sheriff; but its being published, and the consequent excitement being so great, we could not after that get any more letters to or from our friends through the sheriff.) After consultation they went out to see what could be done for us. In the evening we attended prayers as usual. As we closed, C. I., (the free black,) of his own accord, broke out in prayer.