ANOTHER WITNESS OF THE DARK DAY.
By Chas. L. Boyd
A short time ago, I had the privilege of meeting Mr. James Bowlby, now one hundred and six years of age. Hearing of this aged pilgrim, I traveled some distance to see him. As we drove into the yard, Mr. Bowlby, with hoe in hand, was on his way to the garden. With a quicker step than often carries those of threescore years, he advanced to meet us. I note the following brief sketch of his past life, as given by himself, in the conversation which followed:— He was born in March, A. D. 1770, near Hampton, New Jersey, and was brought up by his parents on a farm and in a grist mill. He spent some time in the U. S. navy. He also taught school in Ohio, Louisiana and Arkansas, his last term being in the winter of 1873-4. I inquired if he remembered the dark day of May 19, 1780. “Oh, yes,” said he, “I shall never forget that day. On account of the darkness which prevailed, work was suspended, and the young people came together. In company with others, I took a boat ride and was capsized on the mill-pond.” Mr. Bowlby says that from youth it has been impressed upon his mind that he shall not die, but live to see the King in his glory; and I see no reason why his expectation may not be realized. He bears the appearance of one who has hardly passed the allotted age of man. His eye is not dim and his hearing is good. For many years he has been a member of the Baptist church. Efforts will be made by a brother who accompanied me to call his attention to the Sabbath truth. May this light burst upon his vision, and he be spared to join that company who shall exclaim: “Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us.”