About this time, Mr. Lawrence read a small work, entitled "Life in Earnest," by the Rev. James Hamilton, D.D., Minister of the Scotch Church, Regent's Square, London. The sentiments of this little volume were so much akin to his own, and were withal so forcibly exemplified, that he commenced a correspondence with the author, which became a most interesting one, and continued until the close of his life.

"Boston, July 18, 1849.

"To Rev. J. Hamilton, D.D.

"Sir: The few lines on the other side of this sheet are addressed to me by our excellent governor, whose good word may be grateful to you, coming as it does from a Christian brother across the Atlantic. If it should ever happen to you to visit this country, I need not say how great would be my pleasure to see you. I am a minute-man, living by the day and by the ounce; but am compensated for all privations, by reading such tracts as 'Life in Earnest,' in such a way that few are allowed. I have cleared out the Sunday-school depository three times in the last four weeks, and have scattered the work broadcast, and intend to continue to do so if my health allows. Among those to whom I have given one is my younger brother, who is soon to be with you in England, as Minister to your Court. I recommend him to your prayers and your confidence.

"With great respect for your character, I am yours,
"Amos Lawrence."

"July 23.—We are to have Father Matthew here to-morrow: he is a lion, but I probably shall only see him at a distance. The influence he is said to have upon his Irish people may result in making many of them industrious citizens, who would, without him, be criminals, and a pest to honest people. The evil of such masses being thrown upon us we must bear, and study how to relieve ourselves in any practicable way. I see none but to educate the children, and circulate the Bible and good books among them, which shall encourage them to do the best they can for themselves.

"The Christian banner may have many local influences and teachings; but its broad folds, I trust, will cover many true followers, however exact its worldly interpreters may be of what constitutes a true follower. I saw, in the New York Observer (I think it was), a statement of a district in the South-west, where were forty-one Christian denominations, and no two of whose ministers could exchange pulpit labors. Do not these people need a Christian teacher?"

"August 3.—Father Matthew is doing a good work here; and the result of his power is in his benevolent and sincere expression, and charming head and face. He has called to see me twice, and I intend to call and see him to-morrow. His ease and eloquence could not do for him what his heavenly expression does."

[CHAPTER XXX.]

CODICIL TO WILL.—ILLNESS.—GEN. WHITING.—LETTERS.—DIARY.

In August, 1849, Mr. Lawrence reviewed his will and added to it the following codicil:

"Through the mercy of God, my life has been prolonged to this time, and my mental and bodily powers continued to me to an extent that has enabled me to see to the application of those trusts that have been confided to me; and, should my stewardship end now or next year, and the 'Well done' of the Master be pronounced upon my labors, all things here will seem nothing, and less than nothing, in comparison.

"In short, my life, cheerful and happy as it is made by the three blessings conferred upon man after his fall (wife, children, and friends), is in the keeping of a merciful Father, who, by thus continuing it, allows me a foretaste of that future home I hope for whenever he calls.

"In reviewing my will, above written, executed on the 21st day of February, A. D. 1846, I see nothing to alter, and everything to confirm. And I do hereby declare it still my will, and this codicil is to be taken as a confirmation of it; and I do earnestly hope all in interest will see clearly the meaning of every clause, and carry out my meaning without any quibbling, question, or controversy. I have been my own executor, for many years, of the surplus property I have received, and intend to be while my powers of mind will allow it. Many near and dear friends to whom I looked for counsel and direction, at the time my will was executed, have been taken hence, which makes me more desirous of giving a renewed expression at this time."

In this connection was the following note to his sons, found in his pocket-book after his decease: