NARRATIVE

of the

ANTI-SLAVERY EXPERIENCE

of a

MINISTER IN THE METHODIST E. CHURCH,

WHO WAS TWICE REJECTED

BY THE PHILADELPHIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE

AND FINALLY

DEPRIVED OF A LICENCE TO PREACH

FOR BEING AN ABOLITIONIST

BY LUCIUS C. MATLACK.

 

PHILADELPHIA:
MERRIHEW AND THOMPSON, PRINTERS,
No. 7 Carter's Alley.

____________

1845.

 

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NARRATIVE.

In the year 1827 I became connected with the Sabbath School of the Union Methodist Episcopal Church, Philadelphia, being eleven years of age. Five years afterward I was associated with Daniel Glacken, an experienced Teacher, as an assistant in charge of a class in the same Sabbath School. Two years after­ward I was appointed the Superintendent of the lower school embracing the smaller children of both sexes. Here I employed my time until authorized by the Church to hold public religious meetings, after which my Sabbaths were occupied, for twelve months, visiting the poor and destitute in the alms house and suburbs of the city, and endeavoring to instruct them in the truths and consolations of religion.

At the expiration of this time, on application to the proper authorities, license as a Local Preacher was unanimously voted me by the last Quarterly Conference for Union charge for 1837, signed by John Potts, Presiding Elder of the South Philadelphia District. At the same time, a unanimous recommendation was given me as a suitable person to be received into the Philadelphia Annual Conference, as a travelling preacher. This was nearly three months previous to the sitting of the Conference.

During that time twelve persons members of the M. E. Church, met together and formed a Wesleyan Anti-Slavery Society in Philadelphia. This Society I assisted to form, and was appointed its Secretary.

This act identified me with the Abolitionists, then more despised than feared, and, with almost a unanimous voice, declared of Christian fellowship, or common courtesy. Before the Conference met, in April, 1837, I had frequent interviews with the preachers, who endeavored to prevail on me, merely to withdraw my name from the Anti-Slavery Society.

Previous to the Conference I met with my pastor, Rev. Samuel Keppler and Rev. Wm. Wiggins. "Well," said my pastor, ad­dressing the other clergyman, "this young man is an Abolitionist to be sure." Emphasizing the obnoxious term. Then drawing near, he sat down, and the following conversation ensued

"So you attended at the formation of the Abolition Society the other night."

"Yes sir, I was present with others."

"And you was Secretary, I understand."

"I was."

 "Well, were not all those persons members of an Anti-Slavery Society already?"

"I am not aware of the fact."

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"Why, were they not members of the M. E. Church?''

"They were, without an exception."

"Is not the Methodist Church an Anti-Slavery Society?"

"Perhaps it is. So it is a Temperance Society, but all admit the propriety of forming Total Abstinence Societies, and joining with them."

"Well, a set of Thomsonian quacks have as much right to get together and form a Society, and call it the Medical Society of the Methodist E. Church."

"Being all members of the M. E. Church, we thought we wronged no one by calling the Society after our own name."

"Well, if you are determined to be an Abolitionist all I have to say is, that though I have been your friend, I will be so no longer. I will oppose you on the Conference floor, and I am much mistaken if you can be received as an Abolitionist."

This was startling and unexpected. The impression on my mind from the last remark suggested a train of thoughts entirely new. "Will this connection with anti-slavery views and feelings prevent me from engaging in the blessed work of the ministry?   Will I therefore forfeit the confidence and sympathy of the minis­ters in our Church?" These inquiries pressed weightily upon my mind. The effect was observable to the pastor, who renewed the conversation in a different strain, as follows:

"Brother Matlack, I desire your success in the ministry. I want to see you a member of the Conference. Now, I advise you to go to these abolition friends, and say that you wish your name withdrawn from their Society, as you find it will prevent your admission to the Conference, and embarrass your prospect of usefulness?" To all this a candid hearing was given, and a determination formed to meditate and pray, and act with refe­rence to the single question of duty.

Returning home, it was made a subject of prayer. The favor and friendship of those whom I had ever looked upon as good and holy men—opportunities of extensive usefulness—an hono­rable distinction in the Church—the prosecution of along cherished design of devotion to the Redeemer's kingdom—with the pre­sumption that these good men could not be wrong, and that I might be, and probably was; all conspired to induce an abandon­ment of my recent connection with the Abolition Society. On the other hand, an honest conviction of the truth, and a plain sense of duty, with the prospect of the friendship and confidence of the few despised brethren in the same Society, though less potent in array, was more powerful in fact, and the decision was formed accordingly. The following note announces what it was.

 

To the Rev. Samuel Keppler.

"Beloved Pastor,—The conversation I had with you on Wednes­day last, has led me to make the subject of our remarks a matter of mature and prayerful deliberation, nor could I forget the assur­ance that my being an abolitionist would forfeit your friendship

 

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and favor, and also prevent my admission to the Conference as a minister of Christ. I have in view of all the light I could secure in answer to prayer, come to the conclusion of the whole matter which is this—Abolitionism and truth are identical, therefore I am an Abolitionist. And much as I prize your friendship, I am willing to forfeit it if necessary. And if my fathers and brethren of the Philadelphia Annual Conference will not receive me as an Abolitionist to labor with them in the vineyard of the Lord, I am content to labor in an humbler sphere.

Yours respectfully,

March, 1837.                              Lucius C. Matlack."

 

After receiving this communication, the Pastor apologized for his hasty declaration of enmity, and declared that he would be my friend and represent my case as favorably as possible, regret­ting at the same time the necessity he would be under of declaring to the Conference that I was an Abolitionist.

        A short time ensued before the sitting of Conference. When my name was announced, Rev. S, Keppler rose and addressed the Conference in a few remarks, highly commendatory, closing with the following significant remark: "But in justice to Brother Matlack and this Conference, I am constrained to say, he is a modern Abolitionist." This announcement was electrical in the effect produced on the Conference. James Smith, Presiding Elder of the North Philadelphia District, assured the Bishop that the Abolitionists were radicals—"and this young man is a radical. These radicals deny your authority and the authority of the Gene­ral Conference. He has been spoken of as a young man of talents and piety. If he were pious as St. Paul and as talented as an angel, he should never enter this Conference as an Abolitionist if I could prevent it." To this, James Brooks Ayres responded a hearty amen! Other characteristic remarks were made, some friendly to the person, but none daring to approve the principles of the young man. The case was finally disposed of by a motion to lay it on the table. And there it lays until this day.

Much sensation was produced for a short time, but it soon pass­ed away. Few looked with an intelligent mind upon the prin­ciple embodied in this rejection of a man from the work of the ministry for declaring "the Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because he hath sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound." And yet fewer saw the consequences following such arbitrary exercises of ecclesiastical prerogative. The sympathy of many was excited by this event, and they began to look at the principles which called forth from a young man such an un­equivocal expression of confidence. though associated with eccle­siastical martyrdom. The Rev. Charles Pitman expressed private­ly to the writer his disapprobation of what the Conference had done, and advised him to go to the New Jersey Conference, where there would be "no such foolish question asked about abolition­ism." Individual friends belonging to the Conference assured

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me that at the end of one year I would be received, doubtless, in an honorable manner.

Immediately after the adjournment of Conference, the preacher appointed to West Chester, Pennsylvania, the Rev. John Lednum, engaged me to aid him, as he would necessarily be absent for some months from his charge. Thus, was twelve months spent, at the close of which the Philadelphia Conference met in Wil­mington, Delaware.

The difficulty of being received on account of abolitionism, I supposed to be removed, and was surprised to be convinced to the contrary soon after arriving at the Conference. When the first name, recommended to travel, was brought before them for action, he could not be received until the following question, pro­posed by Father Rider, was satisfactorily answered; "Is there any abolition about him?" From this I knew that my fate was sealed in that body. When my name was read, the old objection was started. My presence was called for to make known plainly what my views were on this "vexed question." President Durbin was opposed to this, and recommended the appointment of a committee to confer with me and report what my views were out the subject of slavery. This was agreed to, and the Rev. Presi­dent J. P. Durbin, Rev. Charles Pitman, and Rev. Matthew Sorin were appointed.

At the interview between us the following ensued:

Pilman.—Brother Matlack, the old question has been mooted respecting your abolitionism. We wish to know your views on that subject at the present time.

Matlack.—My views on all particulars respecting that matter would be a lengthy story and uncalled for. Please specify what you deem obnoxious, and I will be honest and plain in my denial or approval.

Durbin.—We have not come to discuss the matter or determine that your views are right or wrong, but simply to learn what they are. A few questions will inform us. Do you believe that slavery is a moral evil under all circumstances?

Matlack.—I do. I believe that no circumstance or combination of circumstances can change its moral character.

Durbin.—Do you believe that all wise and prudent means should be used, with a view to its immediate abolition, regardless of consequences?

Matlack.—I do; believing, however, that the consequences would be only beneficial, and in no way disastrous as some fear.

Durbin.—Do you believe that it is right to form societies in the Church—edit, publish and distribute papers, and deliver lectures on the subject.

Matlack.—I think all this is perfectly justifiable.

After this conversation, a brief report was made out by the com­mittee and presented to Conference, which stated briefly that Brother Matlack acknowledged himself a modern abolitionist, and approved of the measures of the abolitionists.

On presenting this report, Rev. C. Pitman declared that although

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he had supported this brother, "yet now because of his avowed abolitionism I can no longer stand by him." After remarks by several in opposition to my reception, the vote was taken, and a unanimous rejection was announced. One of the Presiding Elders then offered a resolution, authorizing my being employed on any district during the year. This was voted by a large majority; many, however, consistently voted against this, arguing that it was as manifestly improper to have me employed by the autho­rity of the Presiding Elder, as by the Annual Conference.

One of the preachers, James Flannery, I believe, announced to me the latter vote. I enquired of him the reason, why this was probably done. He assured me that it was thought by himself and others, that I would "be cured of" my "abolitionism by the next Conference." I merely replied to him that I deemed myself an incurable case, and, proceeding to my boarding place, pre­pared at once to leave for home. Arriving in Philadelphia, I attended a lecture, the same evening, on American slavery, as connected with the M. E. Church, by Orange Scott. Being there introduced to him, I formed an acquaintance which was destined to produce a material change in my future course. By his soli­citation, and the appointment of the Wesleyan Anti-Slavery Soci­ety, I attended the Convention held at Utica, 1838, by members of the M. E. Church, on the subject of slavery. Returning to Philadelphia, I engaged for six months as a lecturing agent for the Pennsylvania State Anti-Slavery Society. My labors were not very efficient in this field, from a want of familiarity with the sub­ject of slavery at that time, and inexperience in the duties of an agent. About this time I attended the New England Anti-Slavery Convention of Methodists held at Lowell. My introduction there led ultimately to my removal to New England. A brother, named Benjamin Sandford, solicited my return to New Bedford on my way home. I found them projecting a plan for the forma­tion of a "Free Church" in which the rights of colored and white would be mutually and equally recognized. This ultimately failed. On my return home, some friends furnished me with aid to begin a small business. For a few weeks or months I was thus employed, but no success attended my efforts. What to do was problematical. I was uncertain respecting the future, and disqualified ecclesiastically to engage in the work of the ministry, having been deprived of my license to preach. This unprece­dented act had been consummated by those who had been and still were my personal friends. But such was their horror of abo­litionism, that they deemed it just and right to destroy every vestige of official character that I possessed. The circumstances were these. At the Quarterly Conference for the Union charge, Phila­delphia, January 10, 1839, after the business of the Conference was attended to, the examination of character was commenced. When my case was taken up, the following conversation ensued. It was taken down immediately afterwards.

The persons speaking are the Presiding Elder, Pastor and members. The usual question was asked:

 

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P.E.— Is there any thing against Bro. Matlack?

Pas.—Nothing against Bro. Matlack.

P.E.—Bro. Matlack; will you tell us how you are getting on in religion? Have you faith in Jesus Christ, and a good hope through grace?

[I now rose, but before I commenced speaking a mem­ber of the Conference speaks.]

Mem.—There is one thing I consider objectionable to Bro. Mat­lack's passing the Conference, which is, his being or having been engaged as a lecturer on behalf of a cause which is agitating this church, other churches, and the community at large. I wish to know if it be a fact, and why he conducts himself contrary to the wishes of the church, and in direct opposition to the General Conference.

P.E.—Do you bring a charge against Bro. Matlack?

Mem.—I do not wish to consider what I have said a charge against Brother Matlack's moral character. I know of nothing against his moral character. Yet I mention this as an objection to the renewal of his license.

P.E.—If he be guilty of any criminality that would exclude him from the kingdom of grace and glory, the Discipline points out the proper course in such case.  I will read the article in the Discipline.

[Reads the article on page 68 of the book of Discipline.]

          Bro. Sorin, I presume you have not taken these preliminary steps in his case?

Past.—There have been no charges preferred, that I know of.

Mem.—I do not wish Brother Matlack to consider me his enemy—nor suppose me influenced by personal hostility to him, but I wish him to inform us concerning this matter.

Mem.—I would enquire, does Brother Matlack attend his class?

Past.—He is generally absent from the city.

Leader.—Brother Matlack does attend his class, when he is in the city.

[I then resumed.]

          "The brother need have no fear of my considering him my per­sonal enemy. I know he has no reason to be my personal enemy, and therefore cannot imagine him such. Yet I am well aware of his opposition to my sentiments on abolitionism, and to the course I have pursued on this question, as also the opposition in the minds of other brethren in the Conference. To the charge of acting as a lecturer and agent for the A. S. Society_, I plead guilty, and therefore deem a defence unnecessary. I have lectured on the exciting subject, and shall feel at liberty, at any convenient season, when requested, to lecture again. I suppose that answers the brother's question clearly."

Mem.—I would ask Brother Matlack if it is not his design, if his license is not renewed, to go to New England, and apply for admission into the Conference there.

[To this I answered:]

 

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"The renewal of my license is not necessarily connected with a return to New England. I have lately been to New England, as a delegate from the A. S. Society here, to the Lowell Conven­tion, Mass., where I became acquainted with several members of the N. England Conferences, who suggested to me the pro­priety of coming there and entering the ministry. When at the Utica Convention, last Spring, a plan was prepared for execution immediately, which would have presented me to the New Eng­land Conference, on the 5th of June last, but as I was not pre­pared to leave my home and friends at that time, the request was renewed at my late visit to New England.

"Previous to leaving this city for the East, a brother acquainted me with the fact that a report was in circulation to the effect, that it was designed to object to the renewal of my license be­cause of abolitionism. With this impression I went to Lowell and when requested by some of the brethren to come there, I suggested the great probability of ceasing to be a Local Preacher at this Quarterly Conference, and consequently would be pre­vented from coming, though I might desire it: whereupon they (the preachers) assured me that if so, still they would receive me gladly, and license verbally until the session of a Quarterly Conference, when doubtless a regular license would be realized by me. From this you may be assured that the renewal of my license is no necessary part of my future plan of procedure, as the way is open for my return to New England in either case.

"I have never designed anything respecting this matter before­hand_, but have attempted to follow Providence, nor made an opening for myself—but ever have, and do now stand ready, if Providence prepares the way, to go North, South, East or West. I presume I have answered Brother Gilder's question."

Mem.—I would ask Brother Matlack, in case his license be renewed, if he designs using it to further the cause of Aboli­tionism?

[To which he replied.]

"I do not know how it is possible for me to make such a use of my license. Perhaps I understand the brother to inquire, will I use the influence I shall possess, in consequence of sustaining the office of Local Preacher? I would reply, that this influence is in my case totally destroyed (if it ever existed,) which was evident to me in a late tour through the country. Wherever I came in contact with the Methodist people, their minds were previously prejudiced against me, by unfounded reports of alleged immorality at the late Annual Conference, the members of which it was said, out of kindness, made the charge of Abolition­ism the ostensible objection, and thus rejected me—whose kindness I had abused by representing their rejection of me as a consequence merely of my abolition sentiments, and thus en­deavoring to secure the sympathies of that class of the communi­ty styled Abolitionists. Indeed so completely was my influence destroyed, that even at houses where I preached last winter, (and not unacceptable in the general,) and where some of the

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people requested me to preach again, the minister interposed and prevented it.

[Here one rose to say, he wished Brother Matlack would be more brief in answering his question.]

"I will answer it now, as perhaps I may have digressed unne­cessarily. I never have used my license to further the cause of Abolition, but I have ever felt at liberty to speak in behalf of that cause, and shall continue so to do, whether my license is or is not renewed. I mean to say, I have used the functions of body and mind which God has given me, and I shall continue to use the same functions in advocacy of the self some cause.

[Other questions were asked respecting matters disconnected with abolition entirely, and replied to satisfactorily.]

P. E.—If there are no more questions to be asked of Brother Matlack, will he tell us how he is getting on in religion? Are you as zealous as you was? Have you a good hope through grace?

[To this I replied.]

"I do not know that my zeal is abated, but am as desirous of doing good as I ever was, and believe I can say that a conscious­ness of the approving smile of God is present with me."

[I then retired.]

What transpired after I retired, I know not, but by report. They proceeded to canvass the question of my license being renewed, and brought into view—1st. That immediately after my rejection at the Annual Conference, I proceeded to Philadelphia, and at­tended an Anti-Slavery meeting at which O. Scott lectured, at which meeting I took a prominent seat on the platform. 2d. That soon after Conference, while preaching at West Chester, Penn­sylvania, I travelled out of my way in speaking to a text merely to preach Abolition. But it appeared that they would have pardon­ed all that was past, and taken me into covenant favor, if any as­surance of my future good behaviour could be realized and there­fore the question was thrown out "Is Brother Matlack at present a lecturing agent?"  Brother Pepper answered in the negative. "Will Brother Matlack become a lecturing agent in the future?" All seemed to agree that the brother had settled that question by assuring them that that he should feel at liberty to lecture when­ever requested.

A brother wished to know if the principle was fixed that a Local Preacher was bound to refrain from every professedly benevolent action, other than the actual preaching of the gospel. A brother replied that he could not vote to renew the license of a local Preacher who would run after Abolitionism or any other ism.

The Presiding Elder and Brother Sorin added some additions to what had been said, after which, the question was presented, "shall this brother's license be renewed"—some one called for a rising vote—Brother Pepper asked for the yeas and nays, which was not agreed to. The vote was taken and Brothers Pepper and

 

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Williams voted in the affirmative, and eight voted in the nega­tive, eight or ten not voting-so the case was disposed of.

To corroborate what was stated in the Quarterly Conference, respecting an arrangement for removing to New England, which which was proposed by my friends there. I insert here a letter from Rev. P. Crandall, then stationed at New Bedford, Massa­chusetts. It informs me how I should proceed to arrive in time to be recommended to the New England Annual Conference, June 5, 1838. The writer had just returned from the Utica Anti-­Slavery Convention.

 

"New Bedford, May 11, 1838.

Dear Brother Matlack,—I have ascertained since I arrived here, that the last quarterly meeting, on our district, will be on the 26th and 27th of this month, at Eastham. The distance to Eastham from this place is about 65 miles, 20 of which you can go by steam boat and the remainder by stage. Should you conclude to come, you will take steam boat from New York to New Port, Rhode Island, where you will take stage for New Bedford. When you arrive at New Bedford, let the stage drop you at No. 55 Third street—my residence.

Affectionately yours,

              P. Crandall."

The following, from the venerable Timothy Merritt, will also confirm the remark about my being welcomed to New England without license even. It was dated the day following the Quar­terly Conference that withheld my license. Mr. Merritt was for some time Editor of the Christian Advocate and Journal—the official organ of the Methodist Episcopal Church, at New York city. This venerable man died recently.

 

"New Bedford, January 11, 1839.

Rev. L. C. Matlack,—My dear Brother, I suppose you_. have been informed that the project for a "Free congregation," in this town, has failed. But if you are at leisure, and at liberty to go where you please, there are several places in this immediate neighborhood, where you could labor to advantage till the next Annual Conference. I have just had a conversation with Brother Bonney, and we have agreed to invite you to come on. If you were here now, there is no doubt the Presiding Elder would em­ploy you immediately, as he is in want of a preacher to go to Edgartown, on the Vineyard. But if this place should be supplied, there is one or two other places where you might get immediate employment, that is when your labors are wanted. Should your license not have been renewed, you would do well to take a cer­tificate of membership, and get your license here.

I hope you are in good health atid spirits.  We must not ex­pect to go to Heaven "on flowery beds of ease." If you are called to suffer persecution for righteousness, that is for abolition sake, "rejoice and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward in

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Heaven." In hope of soon seeing you I subscribe myself your affectionate brother in the bonds of the Gospel.

T. Merritt.

P. S.—We, that is, Brother Bonney and I, will give information to the Presiding Elder that we have written to you, and the pro­bability is that he will wait a letter from you before he supplies Edgartown. You will therefore write to one of us as soon as you get this.                                          

                                                                                              T. M."

 

After being refused authority to preach by the Quarterly Con­ference, I continued to preach, however when opportuuity offered; and believing that the action of the Conference was unconstitu­tional, I supposed it was only necessary to point it out to secure redress. Accordingly, I prepared the following appeal to the next Quarterly Conference, held April 23, 1839.

To the President and Members of time Quarterly meeting Conference
                                   for Union Charge, Philadelphia.

Dear Brethren,—Permit me to address you by letter at this time, and respectfully request a re-consideration of the vote taken at your last meeting, January 2nd, by which my license as a Local Preacher in the M. E. Church was withheld. The reasons for such request, with your permission, I will now present.

1. I am persuaded that it was not properly the action of the Quarterly Conference, as but a minority of the members present voted against the renewal of my license, (eight if I mistake not) and I do not believe that you will, on reflection, admit, that the determination of the Quarterly Conference was made known when only a minority acted. Such is not the usage of the Methodist Episcopal Church; for the President of this Conference will re­member, that Bishop Hedding decided in the Annual Conference of 1836, that unless a majority of the Conference united, it was a vote in no case.

2. But had the vote been unanimous, the alleged cause of with­holding my license was insufficient, judging of the matter, accord­ing to the Discipline. You know that the objections made are not recognized therein, and nothing is contemplated as sufficient cause of action, except conduct criminal, in words, tempers, or actions, which would exclude a person from the kingdom of Grace and Glory. Yet you will recollect, that when the President asked the objector if he brought a charge against me, he disavow­ed such intention, and said that he knew nothing against my moral character; and it does appear to me, that such action in the absence of sufficient cause is contrary to the spirit and letter of the Discipline, without parallel in the annals of Methodism, excepting transactions of a very modern date.

The objection to me was made in these words: "He has de­livered addresses on a subject that is agitating this church, other churches and the community at large." It was not alleged that I had promulgated untruths! or that I had taught heresy accord­-

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ing to the standards of the Church! And surely the fact of lectur­ing and even causing agitation in the Church, abstractly consi­dered, ought not to be sufficient cause for withholding my license, if the subject lectured on, and the kind of agitation produced, be not in themselves wrong or sinful.

Yet I have no controversy with the principle of condemning the act, without reference to circumstances, believing it correct. Nor would I have appealed at this time to your deliberate judg­ment, if the act had been declared sinful either by the laws of God, or of the Church, but this was not assumed. Some refer­ence was made to the advice of the General Conference, "wholly to refrain," but that allows of action in favor of abolition if it be done in a Christian manner, and that I have acted in a Christian manner is indisputed, so long as it is not in the power of the Con­ference to convict me of any improper words, tempers or actions, which has not been attempted.

There being then no charge made against my moral character, and no alleged want of other necessary qualifications for the office of a Local Preacher, may I not respectfully claim from you, as a matter of right, based upon the discipline, a renewal of my license to Preach the Gospel.

3. But dear brethren, there are other reasons why I press this matter; the Q. M. Conference, to which I now appeal, and of which I was lately a member, represents the interests of the Church that embraced me in her arms when I was yet a child; and has reared me, as I believe, in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, until the present hour. Two years since, she recog­nized my authority from God to preach the gospel to the poor, deliverance to the captive, and the opening of the prison doors to them that are bound, by giving me a license so to do.

In discharging the duties thus assigned me, I have felt a plea­surable consciousness of God's approving smile, and have not doubted for a moment but that this was what the Lord would have me do. And I am this hour conscience-bound, and feel that "wo is me, if I preach not the Gospel." Nor am I unwil­ling to acknowledge, that frequently, even subsequent to your last meeting, I have heard from various places and responded to the call "come over and help us" And further, I may say, that God has not withheld the unction of his Holy Spirit, but assisted me to preach his word with freedom and effect. And now, I ask, will your body persist in withholding a recognition of that higher authority which has not been disputed by them? I trust that you will not; but if so, then not on me, the Lord being my helper, not on me shall this responsibility be laid in vain; for, knowing that every man must give an account of himself to God, I shall endea­vor to act with a wise reference to that dread hour, when it shall be required of me to give an account of my stewardship. I have now done. My mind is at ease, having performed as I believe a

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solemn duty. Nor am I anxious for the issue, believing that duty is mine, but that results belong to God.

Yours in Gospel fellowship,

Lucius C. Matlack.

April 23d, 1839.

 

 

This appeal was placed in the hands of the Presiding Elder and read to the Quarterly Conference, but no mention of it was allowed in the Minutes. The Presiding Elder, Solomon Higgins, decided that this Session of the Conference could not reconsider the doings of a previous session. Thus it ended.

Being thus denied my request, having no authority from man to preach, I nevertheless continued to exhort sinners to repentance and faith in Christ, in the several large congregations of colored people in the city. For this my pastor, M— S—, reproved me, as manifesting a disregard of the church authority, which had determined I should not preach. I justified myself by the "General Rules," p. 79 book of discipline, where it is made obligatory upon all to "do good of every possible sort to all men—to their souls by instructing, reproving and exhorting all we have any intercourse with."  He "advised" me to cease my public exercises, as he would be compelled to charge me with insubordination. I promised to think of it, and inform him soon. The next week I informed him more positively, that I was conscience bound, and felt that "Wo is me if I preach not the gospel." I heard nothing more of this matter from him.

 

The following letter is expressive of my feelings at this time. It was the last intercourse between us.

 

^"Philadelphia, March 18, 1839.

Dear Brother Sorin,—Having quite recently conversed will you freely, and having exchanged views fully respecting a matter, that is supposed by you to involve, on my part, a breach of implied law, I do not consider it necessary to discuss the mattes further. But having promised to reflect upon it, and in view of your advice, counsel and exposition of the law, determine my future course, I now desire to present you with the result. Permit me to say, as you have expressed a regard for me as a brother, that for you, as a minister, I entertain the highest opinion; and have frequently said in the presence of those who assume lightly to esteem your ministrations, that I am more profited by your instructions from the pulpit, than I am by the preaching of either of the brethren in this city; consequently I give all that deference to your opinions and advice that are due to superior knowledge and experience. But my dear brother, there is another to whom I pay more regard; it is what I believe to be the Spirit of God. And the persuasion of my mind is, that "the spirit of the Lord God is upon me," and that I am appointed to preach the Gospel to the poor. Plainly then, my purpose is to pursue the even tenor of my way, feeling that "Wo is me if I preach

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not the Gospel." I wish you to bring the matter to an issue speedily, that if I am to be cut off from the Church Militant, it may be done by yourself and not by the hand of a stranger. What­ever the result of this peculiarly unpleasant state of things may be, you may rest assured of my regard and esteem, and wherever your lot may be cast for the future, you may, if you will, number me among your friends."

It can easily be imagined by the reader, what my feelings were at this time. I had been trained up in the Methodist E. Church from my infancy. In the city of Philadelphia, I had been connected with the Sabbath School and Union Church, since my tenth year. From the age of 15 to 18, I was engaged as a teach­er in the same school. For two years from that period I was the Superintendent of the Second Division of said School. Alter this, I was licensed to exhort, and employed my time for one year on Sabbath's holding meetings in the suburbs of the city, among the poor, in company with others who were associated together as a Home Missionary Society. Led on by the indications of Providence—urged from a sense of duty—and encouraged by the counsel and advice of my friends, I looked forward to an entire consecration of my powers to the work of the Christian Ministry as the great purpose of my being. Many friends had gathered round me. Leading men in the Ministry had proffered their friendship, and a bright path spread itself before me. But all was changed. The Conference refused to receive me—the Quarterly Meeting withheld my license—and my pastor threaten­ed my expulsion from the Church. For these reasons, I now began seriously to contemplate a voluntary exile from home, and friends, to seek a shelter in New England. But I was not sure of an opening there at present. Having seen the Rev. Timothy Meritt_, in Philadelphia, and knowing that he was now in New York city, I addressed a letter of inquiry to him respecting the probability of being received, licensed and employed, to which he sent the following reply. My letter was dated, May 18, 1839.

 

New York, May, 28, 1839.

Dear Brother Matlack, Your letter came safely and in due time, but I did not hasten to answer, because I wished to see the end of the N. York Conference first. The conference closed its session on Saturday last. Not much was done out of the ordinary course of business. Abolition was several times before the Con­ference; but that body seemed desirous to get rid of it, as soon and as easily as possible, when connected with the old men; but their whole course was adapted to impress the young men that they are not to touch, taste or handle it. Two preachers withdrew from the connexion after the last Conference namely C.W. Turner, and David Plumb. The former was allowed to "withdraw," a year after he had actually withdrawn, and the latter they "suspended," I believe, for three months.

Now as to your own case. My opinion is that you had better

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be still till after the N. E. Conference; and then, should there be vacancies to be filled by the Presiding Elders, which is most probable, you can come on as soon as convenient, and take steps to renew your license. I will write to you again immediately after the N. E. Conference. I wish you had come on in season to get your license renewed before the Conference will set; but this is now too late, and the only course will be for you to take a certificate of your membership, and then join the church in N. E. The way will then be open to obtain license. If the Bishop gets in­formation of this he will defeat it if possible. If no other way offers, he will, perhaps, take all the Presiding Elders from the anti-abolition ranks, and thus block up your way, if possible, in the quarterly Conference. There is now but one abolition Pre­siding Elder in the Conference.—Every thing will now depend on your getting your license. I will watch the movement of mat­ters, and do all that I can for you. Should your way be hedged up in one direction, it will be open in another.

I would beg a remembrance to the little flock of abolitionists in Philadelphia, and especially to the kind family (Br. Pepper's) which gave me and my companion a home for so long a time. My affectionate regards attend you and my sister Matlack always. You shall hear from me again, Providence permitting, as soon as my Conference is over.

Ever your's,                                                                                                                          T. Merritt."

 

Before receiving this reply to my letter the following from Or­ange Scott addressed to a friend was placed in my hand, the next day after I had written to Timothy Merritt. The reader can imagine my pleasure on reading it.

 

"Lowell, May, 15, 1839.

Dear Brother Pepper,—The Methodist Society in this place, wish to engage brother Matlack's services as a preacher for five or six months. Our house on Chapel Hill is more than full, and we have setup another meeting in a hall. We are building a large church which will be done in November. Till that time we want two preachers. The society are wishing and expecting me to be stationed here the year ensuing—and they want, and I want Bro. Matlack to assist me till the new house is done. I presume he will be wanted in the vicinity through the year; and perhaps in the Conference as long as he lives if he wishes to stay. If he can come we will give him at least his discipline al­lowance. I write by direction of the Quarterly Conference, and the request of the P. Elder. If he has no license to preach we will make a preacher of him very quick, if he will come recom­mended as a private member. We want him the first of June. Any time in the month of June however would answer. Please give him the contents of this letter, and ask him to reply immediately.

Affectionately yours,

                           O. Scott."

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I replied to the above, declaring my readiness to come if the church renewed their request for my services in view of my present circumstances. To this I received the following answer.

 

"Lowell, May 25.

Dear Brother Matlack,—The contents of your letter have been laid before the Board, and it was unanimously resolved that the call be repeated, and a Committee was also appointed to pro­cure you a boarding place.

They want you by the second Sabbath in June, if you can come so soon; and they will probably want you till November, perhaps longer—and I have no doubt you will be wanted in the vicinity through the year—and then we shall expect you will join the Conference.

Write me immediately on the reception of this when you will be here. If you could start from Philadelphia, Monday morning, the 3d of June, you would get here about 12 o'clock on Wednes­day the 5th, and it would be very convenient if you could be here during the Conference. Come when you please, only let me know soon when you will come. Affectionately yours, with much love to Brother Pepper, Brother Sinn, your wife and others.

O. Scott."

 

In compliance with the above we left Philadelphia on Monday, June 3d, and arrived in Lowell, the 5th. We were kindly receiv­ed and conducted to our boarding place by Wm. North, Sen. To satisfy any one who might question the truth of my being rejected for anti-slavery opinions I carried with me the following letters. The first was prompted by the circulation of unfriendly reports, alleging my rejection by the Philadelphia Annual Conference for other reasons than my abolition sentiments.

To President Durbin.

"Enterprise, Sept. 19, 1838.

"Much respected Sir,—It may seem presumptuous in me to ad­dress a communication to you, without previous acquaintance, but the circumstances in which I am placed, will, I trust, be suffi­cient excuse for my forwardness. It is not necessary to remind you of my case in the P. A. Conference of 1838, as you was Chairman of the Committee appointed to ascertain my views of the principles embraced, as well as the measures pur­sued by the modern abolitionists. Subsequent to that interview, and I have supposed in consequence of some developments made at the time by me, respecting modern Abolitionism, my application for admission was rejected. Some evil disposed persons, however, have more than insinuated that something worse was the real cause of my being rejected, that being the ostensible objection merely.

Presuming that you are acquainted with the real cause of my rejection, and being desirous successfully to repel such insinua­tions, I have written these lines to request that you would inform

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me if any thing else was laid to my charge, and what; which will oblige your afflicted, though unworthy brother."                                                                                                       

        To this I received the following prompt and satisfactory reply.

 

                                           "Dickinson College, Sept. 21. 1838.

Sir—I have received your letter of the 19th inst. I am not sure that I was in Conference

when your case was decided. But I am satisfied that I did not hear, (or if I did, I do not remember,) any thing urged against you, except your connection with Aboli­tionism. I supposed then, and suppose now, that this was the cause why you was not received. If there were other causes, I do not recollect them.

                                                                                              Respectfully,

                                                    J.P. Durbin."

Soon after the Quarterly Conference at which my license was withheld, Bro. H. J. Pepper obtained the signatures of several of the members of the Conference to a declaration that the only rea­son alleged was my abolitionism, as it was called. He solicited the names of Solomon Higgins, Presiding Elder, and Matthew Sorin, Pastor of the Church. They said the statement was true, but they did not give their names, lest some improper use should he made of the paper.

                Testimonial.

The undersigned being members of the Quarterly Meeting Con­ference of Union Charge, Philadelphia, and being present at the session of said Conference, January 1, 1839, when the license of Brother Lucius C. Matlack as a local preacher was withheld deem it an act of justice to him to state that the only allege cause for withholding his license, was his having delivered public lectures in support of "Modern Abolitionism," with his avow­ed intention to deliver such lectures as occasion might offer, and being in favor of getting up Anti-Slave Societies in the Church.

                                                                           Wm. Williams, Local Preacher.

                                                                           A. Ludington,  "            "

                                                                           Thomas Taylor, Leader.

                                                                           Henry J. Pepper,   "

                                                                           Sam'l Y. Monroe,  "

                                                                           Mitchell Bennis,    "

                                                                           Thos. K. Peterson,  "

Philadelphia, May 29, 1839.

 

In addition to the above letter, I was favored with an introductory written by Thomas T. Mason, and signed by the President and Secretary of the Wesleyan A. S. Society. Two of these, Messrs. Mason and Thompson, are now class leaders in the Union Church.

"Philadelphia, May 29, 1839.

Dear Brethren,—Having understood from Lucius C. Matlack, that he has been called to preach the Gospel in Lowell, Mass., and that he has accepted said call, we wish to bespeak for him your kind attentions and best sympathies.

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          We have known him as a Sabbath School Teacher, a Sabbath School Superintendent and Preacher of the Gospel, and also as a firm friend to the poor and oppressed. In March, 1837, a few of the Members of the M. E. Church, formed themselves into an Anti-Slavery Society. Of that small number, Lucius C. Matlack was one. He has since that time acted as one of our Secretaries, and has always been willing and ready to open his mouth for the dumb, both in public and private. Many have been led to see the evils of slavery, and many, no doubt, through his instrumen­tality have been brought to the foot of the Cross for pardon. His preaching days are ended here for a time. God said to him "Go preach the Gospel;" God said "Remember them that are in bonds as bound with them; but his brethren in the Philadelphia Annual Conference and in the Union Church Quarterly Conference said no, he shall not preach the Gospel!

          His mouth has been shut, and here he cannot preach. But from New England the voice of welcome is heard, "Come! Here you can preach the Gospel of Christ; here you can plead the cause of the oppressed; here you can raise your voice as a trum­pet and show the people their sins."

          He is going to the place from whence the call proceeded and may the blessings of Almighty God attend him; he goes with the blessings of his brethren and he has their prayers and tears.

          Receive him as one who has been tried and not found wanting. He has passed through the fiery ordeal and come out unscathed.

            And we trust that neither the assaults of his enemies, nor the coldness of his professed friends, nor proscription, nor adversity, nor prosperity, nor life, dear as it may be, nor the prospect of death itself, nor any other creature can cause him to cease to la­bour for the good of man and the glory of God.

            Signed on behalf of the Board of Managers of  ^"The Wesleyan Anti-Slavery Society of the M. E. Church of Philadelphia."

Lewis Beebe, President.

 

          L. Thomson, Secretary,

        To our Brethren of the New England Conference.

       

It will be well here to present the successive licenses, signed the proper authorities, recognizing me as a preacher of the Gospel­.

 

Know all men by these Presents, that Lucius C. Matlack is authorized to preach, as a local preacher in the Methodist Episcopal Church, provided that he continues in subjection to the Discipline of said Church and his conversation is such as becomes the Gospel of Jesus Christ.                                                                                                                                    J. Potts, P.E.        Done at the Quarterly Conference, for Union Charge held at Philadelphia, the 10th day of January, A. D. 1837 S. Sappington, Secretary. To be renewed in twelve months.

 

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            This was my first regular license to preach. At the same time I was recommended to be received in the travelling connection in the Philadelphia Annual Conference.

 

Know all men by these presents, That Lucius C. Mat­lack is authorized to preach as a local preacher, in the Methodist Episcopal Church, provided that he continues in subjection to the Discipline of said Church, and his con­versation is such as becomes the Gospel of Jesus Christ.                                                                         Solomon Higgins, P.E. Done at the Quarterly Conference, for the Union Church, held at the Church the       2d day of January, A.D., 1838.                John Wilmer, Sec'ry To be renewed in twelve months.

 

This second license was the last I received in Philadelphia. In 1839 it was withheld. I removed to New England, and there re­ceived the following: