Patriarch and prophet press their equal claims;
Like generous coursers, running neck and neck,
Each aids the work by giving it a check.
Christian and Jew, they carry out a plan;
For, though of different faith, each is in heart a man."
[CHAPTER XX.]
INTEREST IN MOUNT AUBURN.—REV. DR. SHARP.—LETTER FROM BISHOP McILVAINE.—LETTER FROM JUDGE STORY.
After the establishment of the cemetery at Mount Auburn, Mr. Lawrence had taken a deep interest in its progress, as well as in every plan for its gradual improvement and embellishment. In connection with his brothers, he had purchased a large space, which had been enclosed by a permanent granite wall and iron railing. To this spot he habitually resorted, containing, as it did, the remains of some of the dearest earthly objects of his affection, and destined, as it was, to be the final resting-place of not only himself, but of the various branches of his family. When this enclosure had been finished, it became an object with him to gather around him in death those whom he had loved and honored in life. In this way, he had been instrumental in causing to be removed to a burial-lot adjoining his own the remains of the Rev. J. S. Buckminster, the former minister of Brattle-street Church; and had also presented another lot to his friend and pastor, the Rev. Dr. Lothrop. Another friend, whose grave he wished to have near his own, was the Rev. Daniel Sharp, D.D., minister of the Charles-street Baptist Church, in Boston. There were few in Boston who were not familiar with the appearance of this venerable clergyman, as he daily appeared in the streets; and fewer still who had not learned to appreciate the truly catholic and Christian spirit which animated him in his intercourse with men of all sects and parties. Mr. Lawrence had early entertained a great esteem for his character; and this esteem had become mutual, and had ripened into the closest intimacy and friendship. On receiving a deed of a lot at Mount Auburn, Dr. Sharp writes as follows: