Presbyterian Church in the U.S. Presbytery of Hopewell minutes, Volume 1 (1797-1834). [April 25, 1833 - April 3, 1834]

505.
Presbyterian Church
Athens, April 23rd 1823.
Agreeably to a regular citation a pro ne natu. Presbytery
met on this day for the purpose of appointing a commissioner
or Commissioners to the next General Assembly, and to receive
under our care any candidate for the ministry who may present
himself.
The meeting was opened with a sermon by the Rev. Mr. Hoyt
with a sermon from 1. Kings, 22: 14 by request of the Moderator.
Members present A. Church D. D. Nathan Hoyt and John S. Wilson
and Elder M. W. Dobbins from the Church in Athens. Constituted
with prayer. Elder M. W. Dobbins was appointed Temporary
Clerk.
In compliance with the object expressed in the circular calling
the present meeting it was resolved that the Presbytery proceed forth
with to appoint a Commissioner to the General Assembly:
Whereupon Col. Joseph Henry Lumpkin was unanimously
chosen, and it was ordered that a commission be prepared
Accordingly.
Mr. James H. Saye, a member of the Presbyterian Church


506.
in Athens, and a student in Franklin College presented
himself before presbytery, and requested to be taken under
our care as a candidate for the gospel ministry. He
having been examined as to his acquaintance with experimental
acquaintance with religion and the motives
which induced him to desire the office of the ministry:
And the presbytery having sustained said examination
as part of trial preparatory to licensure: he was received
under our care. Presbytery assigned Mr.
Saye the 10 first chapters of the Confession of Faith
to prepare for examination at our semi-annual
meeting. Adjourned. Concluded with prayer.
John S. Wilson, Modr.
M. W. Dobbins, Temporary Clerk.
John S. Wilson Stated Clerk.
Presbyterian Lecture Room.
Augusta June 28. 1833.
The Presbytery of Hopewell convened at 10 Oclock A.M.
Present John Brown D. D. Henry Reid, William Moderwell,
William Quillin, S. K. Talmage. Elder Willaim J. Hobby


507.
of the Presbyterian Church, Augusta.
In the absence of the Moderator, Dr. Brown was called to the
chair; and Mr. Talmage appointed temporary clerk.
The following circular was read:
Lawrenceville 5th June 1833.
Dear Bro. I have been constitutionally required to convene
the Presbytery of Hopewell in the Lecture Room of the Prresbyterian
Church, Augusta, on Friday the 28th instant at 10 Oclock, A.M.
to investigate the case of the Rev. Mr. Moderwell who is represented
to be separated from his wife to the great injury of the cause
of Christ. You will therefore fail not, if possible, to attend, [?].
John S. Wilson, Moderator,
of Hopewell Presbytery.
The following statement was present in writing by H. Reid
The Rev. William Moderwell a Member of this Presbytery is
living in a state of separation from his wife, and has been
for more than three months to the great injury of the cause of
Christ. Therefore, I hope the Presbytery will enter upon the investigation
of the subject, so that the church may be freed
from the scandal which has fallen upon it. 28 June 1833. H. Reid.


508.
After a serious and prayerful consideration of this case,
it was resolved that the Presbytery take it up at their semi-annual
sessions at Athens, August next, for adjudication
and Thereas Mr. Moderwell waives the privilege of
naming his witnesses now, and also waives the privilege
of objecting then to any witness that may be brought forward
by the Prosecutor in consequence of not being served
with a copy of their names twn days before the meeting of the
Judicature; it is therefore understood & agreed upon, that
both the Prosecutor, & the accused may bring forward any
witnesses they may think proper, but the accused claims
the priviledge of objecting to witnesses on their testimony
on any other constitutional ground.
The Presbytery then adjourned.
John Brown, Modr.
Sam K. Talmage, Clerk, pro. Tem.
Attest John S. Wilson,
Stated Clerk.




509.
Examined and approved by Synod
Augusta Decr. 6th 1834
Nathan Hoyt Moderator




Athens, August 9th 1833. 88th Session.
The Presbytery of Hopewell held its semi-annual
meeting pursuant to adjournment, & was opened with a sermon
by the Moderator from 2nd Corinth. 5. 10, 11. For we must all
appear before the judgement seat of Christ, that every man
may receive the things done in his body, according to
that he hath done, whether it be good or bad - Knowing
therefore the terror of the Lord we [?] men. Constituted
with prayer. Members present,
Ministers. Elders
James Gamble James Wilson
Henry Reid James Jackson
Nathan Hoyt David Henderson
R. Chamberlain David King


510.
John S. Wilson Nathan Hodge
Sam K. Talmage James Lemmon
William Moderwell Richard Saye
Henry Safford John McWhorter
Alonzo Church, D. D. J. Holliway
James C. Patterson Dr. Pond
Edwin Holt E. A. Nisbet
Arthur M. Mooney Zach Williams
William Guillan John Cunningham
John Harrison John King
Sam J. Cassels Sam Baldwin
Hamden C. Carter John Reed
Charles C. Mills
Alexander Human
Richard J. Marks
William Turk
William Montgomery
Thomas Tuggle
Elijah Reeder
A. Wingfeld


511.
Members absent - John Brown, D. D. Edward Pharr, Joseph Y. Alexander,
William B. Richards, Thomas F. Scott, C. P. Beman, William K. Patton.
Presbytery had a recess till half past 2 Oclock, P.M.
Half past 2 Oclock P.M. Presbytery met, & proceeded to the selection
of a Moderator & Clerk pro tem. The Rev. Edwin Holt was elected
moderator & Sam J. Cassels Temporary Clerk.
The minutes of the last meeting were read & confirmed.
Members absent from the last meeting of presbytery severally rendered
satisfactory reasons for such absence.
The case of Mr. E. J. Hopping a licentiate of this presbytery was taken up.
The Stated Clerk reported that he had made the communication to Mr. Hopping
requested by a resolution of last presbytery, called upon Mr. Hopping to
now cause of why, why his license should not be recalled. It appeared
that Mr. Hopping had for a number of years ceased to preach the gospel
& with his own defense the presbytery resolved that the licensure of
Mr. Hopping be recalled, & he be considered no longer a licentiate
under our care.
The subject in relation to the [?] of Dr. Goulding, on the subjects
& Mode of Baptism, heretofore prepared & published by request of
the Presbytery was to hear [?] & the communication of it referred


512.
to a committee consisting of Messrs. Chamberlain, Patterson & Wilson.
The parts of trial assigned to Mr. Samuel Fugles at the last
meeting of presbytery, were at his own request postponed till
our annual sessions.
The subject of Foriegn Messrs being under consideration, was
referred to the committee of [?] consisting of Messrs. Chamberlain,
Talmage & Cassels to report as soon as practicable.
Members appointed to attend three & four days meetings reported
that the meetings had been held.
It was resolved pursuant to a request from the Churches of
Mount Olive & Bethel that the ordination of the Licentiate
John W. Reid, as an Evangelist take place in Bethel
Church on the Saturday preceding the first sabbath in
December next: & that Rom. 6. 23. Be assigned him as the
subject of a sermon to be delivered previous to ordination.
Mr. Cassels to preach the ordination sermon & Mr. Hoyt
to give the charge.
A request was received by the hands of Mr. Hoyt from
our licentiate T. W. Dwight defering ordination, which was
laid on the table.


513.
Messrs. Hoyt, Jos Jackson & John Cunningham were appointed
a committee to arrange matters in reference to preaching during the
present meeting of presbytery.
The Presbytery resolved to hold the annual meeting in Milledgeville
on Thursday before the first sabbath in April 1834 at 11 Oclock A.M.
The Rev. Mr. Talmage the commissioner to the last
General Assembly being called on, made a report relative to the
proceedings of that body which report was accepted.
Presbytery adjourned to meet at the call of the Chair.
Concluded with prayer.
Athens, Saturday, Aug. 10. 1833 - 11 Oclock, A.M.
Presbytery met & was constituted with prayer. The roll
was called & the minutes of the last meeting read- Robert
McAlpin & John Baker ministers appeared & gave reasons
for not attending earlier & took their seats. R. J. Marks from
Columbus, William Turk from New Lebanon, William Montgomery
from Thyatira & T. Tuggle from Monticello, ruling Elders
appeared & took seats as members. It was resolved that
the Rev. H. Reed be appointed as the alternate of Mr. Hoyt
in the ordination of John W. Reed.


514.
The examination of James H. Saye on the first ten Chapters
of the Confession of Faith, was sustained as a part of
trial previous to licensure, & the ballane of the Confession
of Faith was assigned him as further parts of trials for
licensure.
Mr. Reed J. Marks a member of the Church of Columbus
& Mr. James W. Freeman a member of the church of Athens
were introduced to Presbytery as desiring to be taken
under their care with a view of preparing for the work of the
gospel ministry. They were examined on experimental religion
& the motives inducing them to seek the office of the ministry
which examinations were sustained. The first ten Chapters
of the Confession of Faith were assigned each of the candidates
to prepare for examination: & to Mr. Freeman An humann volentas
[?] sit? the theme of exegesis.
A letter was received from the Church of Fairview requesting that in
case the Presbytery should be [?], they may have the privledge
of becoming attached to Hopewell, which was laid on the table
for the present.
Resolved that the trial of Brother Moderwel be the order


515.
of this day for half past two Oclock this afternoon.
Thos. F. Scott & S. J. Cassels, ministers, principals, & H. C. Carter, &
J. C. Patterson, alternates, & Jos. H. Lumpkin & Jos. McDowel, principals,
& Levi Willard & Wm. Dearing, Alternates, were sustained commissioners
to the next General Assembly.
Presbytery had recess to meet at half past 2 Oclock, P.M.


Athens, August 10th 1833 - half past 2 Oclock, P.M.
The Presbytery met. The roll was called, & the order
of the day (Mr. Moderwells case) taken up.
Before entering upon the investigation of the case, the diverse direction
& guidance was sought by prayer. The charges proposed against
Mr. Moderwell, at this session of the pro-u-nata Presbytery in Augusta
in June last by the Prosecutor Mr. H. Reed was then read; which
charge is in the words following, viz: The Rev. William Moderwel
a member of this presbytery is living in a state of seperation from
his wife, & has been for more than three months to the great injury of
the case of Christ. The question was then put by the Moderator
to Mr. Moderwell, Are you guilty of the charge or not? To which Mr.
Moderwell replied; That the charge was too vague to be answered -


516
that it contained nothing specific- that if it only meant that a
state of separation executed between him & Mr. Moderwell, it was
true. But if it meant that he (Mr. M) had separated from
his wife it was false. A motion was then made that the
Prosecutor make this charge more specific, which was [?].
It was then stated by Mr. Moderwell that he had some papers
in his hands & a correspondence which would to exculpate
himself from blame, that no further proceedings would be
necessary. On motion it was resolved that this exculpatory
evidence be heard. Mr. M. then was such papers & correspondence
in the hearing of presbytery, & submitted such explanatory
remarks as be thought necessary.
Mr. Reid the Prosecutor was then directed to all testimony
to substantiate the charges against Mr. Moderwel. Whereupon
Charles J. Jenkins Esqr. was called in & solemnly adjured to
testify touching the matter now in question. Presbytery proceeded
to receive & read the testimony of Mr. Jenkins which is as
Following, viz; By Mr. H. Reid the Prosecutor
1st Question. Can you relate a conversation which took place
in the City Hall, Augusta, in January last between


517.
yourself & Mr. Moderwel?
Answer - On the third or fourth week in January last, [?]
the sitting of the Superior Court, I had such conversation with
Mr. Moderwel, when he stated he desired to see me & requested
me to ask Col. McKinne to return from the [?] - to see
Mrs. Moderwel & get her consent on the subject. Mr. M impinged
the conduct of Col. & Mrs. McKinne - said McKinne must
be removed, or sessions [?] would take place, viz, separation
from his (Mr. M) wife - I said Col. McKeene was willing to
to resign- He upheld that it must take place or he must
separate from his wife - I asked him if he wanted to seperate?
Noting that the question argumented with myself - He upheld - Only
as our alternative - I mentioned that I would inform Col. McKinne
& Mrs. Moderwel of his wishes - also that he states that he had requested
Col. McKinne to resign, which he had not since.
2nd Question. Had you any other conversation with Mr. Moderwel
on the subject?
Answer. On informing Col. McKinne, he said if Mrs. Moderwel
would consent he would be willing. On informing Mr. Moderwel, he
still said a new Trustee must be appointed. (Here the following


518.
correspondence was said - Augusta, 30th January, 1833 - Sir - In compliance
with your request I this evening had an interview
with Col. McKinne, & Mrs. Moderwel. Col. McK. very promptly
replied to my interrogatory, whether he would resign his
trusteeship, that understanding it to be your work, he would
cheerfully do so, provided Mrs. Moderwel should acquiesce.
I then stated to Mrs. Moderwel that you had requested
me to inquire of her whether she would acquiesce in the
resignation of Col. McK. & the appointment in his stead of
Andrew J. Miller Esqr. as trustee. I also stated to her that
on the same interview you had expressed your determination,
that if the affair could not then be adjudicated, by
consent, you would seek the defered substitution of Mr.
Miller for Col. McK. by a regular application to the
court; & that then he must be removed from the
court, or you must separate from your wife. That
I then inquired of you whether you desired a separation,
to which you replied in substance I only motioned
the separation, for, as an alternative, but considering
this interrogatory as proposed by you, I answer, of


519.
such a separation be desirable to Mrs. M. & her friends, I
have no objection to confer with them on that subject. I with
you here to understand, Mr. Moderwel, that I did not represent
myself as authorized by you to meet with Mrs. M. on
that subject, but that I mentioned it some minutes after
the object of the writ had been announced, in order to show
her how determined you were, & consequently, how necessary
it was for her to take her resolution promptly, & furthermore
because I thought it proper she should know that you had
looked to seek our event as a contingency not unlikely to
occur. I now give you the answer of Mrs M. She will
acquiescence in the resignation of Col. McK. & the appointment
of Mr. Miller whom you have designated, provided you
will consent to her nominating another to be associated
with Mr. M. in the court. This the thinks cannot be
objected to, as it comports with the original [?] (there
having been in the first place two Trustees, one of whom
is now no more) and was much as it would afford her
our opportunity of including some gentleman with whom
she is personally acquainted. Should this plan meet


520.
your approbation Col. McK. & Mrs. M. will interpose no obstacle
to its immediate execution. Mrs. M. however having in
need the alternative of which you [?], [?] me say that
if, either, in the court of Col. McK. continuing in the court
or not, you should will a separation, the will interpose
no objection. It will only be necessary for you to propose
terms for her consideration - All of which is respectfully
submitted by your [?] [?], Charles J. Jenkins
Crs. J. Jenkins Esqr. for, I shall be at the office
of Mr. Miller this evening between 7 & 8 Oclock prepared
to submit to you a proposition on the concluding sentiment
contained in your note of yesterday - Tho I deem
The appointment of two Trustees altogether unnecessary
yet, yet I will not object to such an appointment,
provided the understood selected shall be entirely disinterested
& not unfriendly to me - Your obedient servt.
Wm. Moderwel, Landwells, Jan. 31st 1833
Augusta, 31st Jan. 1833 - For, your fervour of this morning
was received two hours since or thereabouts. If we can
have a present interview on the subject of the concluding
521.
sentiment contained in my note of yesterday at
Mr. Millers office, I have not [?] objection to meeting
you there & hearing your proposition. But you will
at once perceive the impropriety of discussing such a matter
before any one unconnected with Mrs. M. & yourself until it
shall have been agreed upon. So far however from seeking
concealment from any other motive than that of delicacy
to Mrs. Moderwel. I should have not the slightest objection
to reducing all I may say to writing, of which you may
have the custody. If you are assured we shall be interrupted
at Mr. Millers office, or of you will accept an
invitation to my office, I will cheerfully meet you at
either place. Otherwise it would perhaps be better that
you should submit your views in writing. Please let
me know by the bearer what is your pleasure in the
matter - Yours respectfully, Charles J. Jenkins - To the Rev.
Wm. Moderwel
Sir, In reply to your note of this date which I have just
received, I beg leave to say that I shall be at Mr. Millers
office at the hour of 7 this evening when we can have a


522.
private interview or not as shall be determined on. Yours H
Wm. Moderwel, Laud Hills, Jan. 31. 1833.)
During a walk from Mr. Millers office in Augusta, Mr. M.
said he would have no objections to a second trustee being apprented
of suitable to him. If not, if Mrs. McKinne would pay
Fifteen Thousand Dollars & cancel a judgement he would go
where he would not trouble them nor they him. Mr. Moderwel
asked if Mrs. M. had nominated any other trustee to be
associated with Mr. Miller. Mr. J. P. King was named as having
been nominated - to which he (Mr. M) objected, as he Mr. M expected
to make Mr. King a party to a suit if brought against the
trustee. He mentioned some with whom he would be
pleased, as Campbell or Longsheet - inserted that Col.
McKinne should be removed. On parting Mr. M. remarked
that the matter of separation could not be consummated
until the first of April. Mr. M. during these conversations
spoke of Mrs. M. with affection.
On Sunday night about the 2nd of February at the Laudhills
at Col. McKinnes I mentioned to Mrs. Moderwel the conversation.
Mrs. M. said that Mrs. McKinne did not owe him


523.
Fifteen Thousand Dollars, & therefore she could not pay him
that amount. Mrs. Moderwel then mentioned Mr. Robert A. Reid
of Augusta as Trustee.
On Saturday morning going to Augusta, Mr. Moderwel on
his way to Columbus overtook us, & said from what Mrs.
Moderwel stated at parting, he expected that she would
return she did not know- Mr. M. said I would recollect
this matter was not to be consummated till the 1st of
April, as Mr. Moderwel did not want to be alone till that
time - that the world was conscious, & he feared suspicion
& the investigation of this church - which if the Presbytery should
notice the matter to which I replied, no. I expressed astonishment
that Mr. M. should desire to live with his wife after
agreeing to separate two months hence. I said as to the
proposition he need say no more, as Mrs. Moderwell refused on
conditions of paying the sum specified. I told him I knew
nothing about Mrs. M.s return, but I would give him an
answer on Monday or Tuesday after his return from


524.
Columbus to the propositions last submitted- We then parted-
On Monday or Tuesday I addressed him a note
[?] of Mrs. Ms opinions, Augusta 4th February, 1833.
Sir - If my engagements render it inconvenient for me to
visit the Hall this afternoon, I thus communicate to you
Mrs. Moderwels answer to your first proposition providing
for the nomination of a trustee on her part, to act with
Mr. Miller, in the place of Col. John McKinne, who as you
request is willing to resign. The answers that you having
objected to the nomination of Mr. King, she now nominates
Mr. Robin A. Reid- Should this be acceptable to you please
inform me of it as soon as convenient. To your second
proposition that in the event of the parties being unable to
agree upon trustees as the successors of Col. McKinne a separation
between her & yourself as husband & wife shall take
place - provided Mrs. McKinne will pay you Fifteen Thousand
Dollars (which you say she owes you) & satisfaction be entered
on a judgement which Col. McKinne as Trustee holds over you
& provided also that this separation be not consummated until
the first of April, & that in the meantime Mrs. Moderwel




525.
shall remain with you - the answers that your terms cannot
be acceded to for these reasons - 1st Because the sum you demand
cannot be received either in law or equity from the source whence
you propose to draw it - 2nd Because that sum taken from her
property would leave her destitute or nearly so - 3rd Because after
agreeing upon a separation to take place in future she could
not for a moment think of remaining with you until it
should be consummated. Respectfully your [?] servt.
Charles J. Jenkins - [*(To the)*] Rev. Wm. Moderwel -
Next morning walking in Augusta Mr. Moderwel asked
if Mrs. Moderwel had nominated another trustee. I mentioned
Mr. Reid. To this he objected on the ground of personal enmity.
I reported Mrs. M. would not approve any other- He asked if
Mrs. M. would return- I told him I had no instructions on
that subject. He asked if I considered what had passed
between us confidential - to which I replied - no. A few days
after I received a letter from Mrs. Moderwell saying she did not
intend to return - the substance of which I addressed to Mr.
M. Augusta 19th Feb. 1833. Sir - In our last interview, you
inquired when Mrs. Moderwel intended to return & received


526.
for answer that I had no instruction to communicate with
you on that subject. Since that time on being informed of
what had passed between us, Mrs. M has requested me to
say to you that she does not intend returning to live with
you. Respectfully, your [?] servt. Charles J. Jenkins - To the
Rev. Wm. Moderwel
At Mr. Millers office a few days after Mr. Moderwel said he
wished an offer made for his interest of this property - deferred
our early answer & said that under existing circumstances
he should not request Mrs. M.s return. I informed Mr.
Miller at Columbus Court what would be given to Mrs.
Moderwel. Mr. Miller informed me Mr. Moderwel would
not accept - Here the matter between us dropped.
3rd Question. Do you know that in the summer of 1832
Mr. Moderwel refused Mrs. M. money & whether she did not
get it elsewhere?
Ans. I do not know that he did refuse - She got money
from the trust stock this Mr. King - I supposed Mr. Moderwel
had not money enough to supply his wifes
travelling expenses-


527.
Cross Examined
Question 1st State the circumstance out of which the interview
in the City Hall grew?
Ans. Col. Cumming informed me Mr. Moderwel worked to
communicate with me on the above subject - To which I
objected for many reasons.
2nd Question - Did the proposition not come from you about
seeing me? Answer - No -
3rd Question - Did you not hear me say in the City Hall
that I would rather be dead or in my grave, or seperated
from my family than treated as I was?
Answer - Not in the connection stated - you [?] alluded
to seperation,
Quest. 4th - At Mr. Millers office did I not say I had
no wish to be separated from Mrs. Moderwel?
Answer - You stated this conditionally -
Question 5th. Did I not stated Mrs. M. might select both
trustees?
Answer - You did, provided they were [?] & such
as you should approve -


528.
Question 6th - Did I not object to Mr. King before your
announced his name? Answer - No -
Question 7th - Did you not state your memory to be bad?
Answer - I said I did not think I had a very good
memory, tho I generally recollected things interesting me -
Question 8th - Was not your intercourse & mine friendly
previous to marriage? Answer - Yes -
Question 9th - Do you know any thing derogatory to my
moral character since my restoration to the ministry?
Answer - No, I do not.
Question 10th - Did you ever hear me accused by the family
of [?]? Answer - No.
Question 11th - Did you ever hear that I withheld
money from Mrs. Moderwel? Answer - No -
Question 12ht - Had you not reason to think me in
extreme poverty last summer when Mrs. Moderwel
went to travel? Answer - I had no reason to think so -
Question 13th - Do you think the separation between
Mrs. Moderwel & myself would have taken place, but for
the correspondence between you & myself?
529.
Answer - I think it probably would not - But I should
have taken no part in the matter, but for your introducing
it twice previously.
Question 14th - Was not your letter to me in relation
to Mrs. Moderwel not returning written subsequently to
my motions for the removal of Col. McKinne as
Trustee? Answer - Yes -
Question 15th - Have I not commenced a suit against
Col. McKinne? Answer - Yes -
Examined by the Presbytery -
Quest. 1st - Have you any reason to believe that Mr. &
Mrs. Moderwel have lived happily since his restoration
to the ministry? Ans - I have no personal knowledge on the
subject -
Quest. 2nd - Have you ever heard Mrs. Moderwel say
that Mr. Moderwel has treated her unkindly since his
restoration to the ministry - Ans. I have -
Quest. 3rd - Did Mrs. M. assign you in her letter
reason for not returning?
Ans. I do not recollect any distinct reasons -


430.
Question 4th - What was the amount of money offered Mr. Miller
in settlement with Mr. Moderwel?
Answer - He was offered a sum of money on the hands of
Mr. John P. King to the amount of $2600, together with
the satisfaction of a judgement of $1800.
Question 5th - Do you know how much Mr. M. has received
annually from the state?
Answer - I do not know how much he has received -
Question 6th - Do you know whether a letter written by
Mr. M to MRs. M. was returned unread?
Answer: I know she did return such letter, the reasons
of which were that she had been frequently disappointed
in her husbands amendment, & determined not to hear
any propositions on that subject -
Question 7th - What was the unkind treatment given
by Mr. M to Mrs. M. since his restoration?
Answer - That his general deportment to his wife since
his restoration was harsh & unbecoming - sometimes contradicting
her abruptly & once at least threatening her that she should
pour tea for him for the last time -


431.
Question 8th - Have they lived more happily since the restoration
than before?
Answer - [?] has been an amendment since his intemperance.
Question? Has not Mrs. M. been after compelled to flee for
refuge from Mr. M.s unkind treatment since his restoration?
Answer- No -
The Presbytery having completed the examination of Mr.
Jenkins adjourned till Monday morning at sunrise -
Concluded with prayer -
Athens - Monday Morning, sunrise - August 12th 1833 -
Presbytery met according to adjournment & was
opened with prayer - Members present as on Saturday -
The minutes of the last setting were read & corrected - Presbytery
then had a recess till 8 Oclock A.M.
August 12th 1833 - 8 Oclock A.M.
The presbytery met - Mr. A. Wingfield an Elder from the
church in Washington appeared & took his seat -
It was moved that Presbytery proceed to the unfinished
business of Saturday; viz. The recurring evidence in the case
of Mr. Moderwel - The motion was waived to give place


532.
to the following resolution - Resolved, that no testimony whatever
affecting the character of Mr. Moderwel previous to his restoration
to this ministry will be admitted & the Moderator is
charged specially to see that this order is executed - This
motion was lost by a large majority of votes - It was
then moved by the prosecutor that Col. John McKinne
be admitted as a witness in the case - Mr. Moderwel
then objected to the competency of the witness on the
following grounds - 1st On account of the nearness of relationship
existing between Col. McKinne & the parties interested
in the case - 2nd On account of personal [?] towards
himself - 3rd On account of his notoriously bad
character- 4th On account of the deep interest he personally
feels in the space of the trial -
Mr. Moderwel was then called on to substantiate his objections
to Col. McKinne as a witness by proof - Whereupon
he reported as to the 1st Objection - Col. McKinne is the
reported uncle of Mrs. Moderwel - 2nd Obj: He [?] a
paper to prove its validity - a note to Mr. B. McKinne and
answer thereto dated 18th August 1830 tending to show in


533.
his estimation a conspiracy against Mr. Moderwels domestic happiness
by false reports against him - 3rd Object. Defendant stated
that nothing was more common in Augusta than to hear people
speaking of the notoriously bad character of Col. McKinne
as to veracity - 4th Object. He leaves Presbytery to judge
of this from what has already been stated.
The objections of the defendant to the qualifications of Col.
McKinne as a witness, resting chiefly upon bare assertion, or
upon papers no way confirming them, Presbytery deemed them
insufficient & determined to admit Col. McKinne as a
witness. Upon this determination of the Presbytery to admit
Col. McKinne, Mr. Moderwel read certain papers implicating
the proceedings of Presbytery & of the prosecutor especially -
laid them on the table & abruptly retired renouncing all
connection with this body. Upon the departure of Mr.
Moderwel the following resolution was offered & adopted
Resolved, That whereas Mr. Moderwel has left this body
& renounced all connection with Presbytery, a committee
of two be appointed to conducted the management of his
case. The committee consisted of the Rev. Jas. Gamble


534.
& of Col. Charles C. Mills.
The following members obtained leave of absence during
the remaining sessions of Presbytery; Col. Z. Williams and
Archibald Wingfield.
On motion resolved that the statements of Mr. Moderwel
implicating the conduct of the Presbytery which he desired
to be entered on the minutes of Presbytery, he referred to a
committee to report - Messrs. Jas. Patterson, Rem. Chamberlain
& John Cunningham were appointed on that
committee-
Col. McKinne being introduced & adjured, was asked
the following question by the prosecutor - Will the witness
tell us all he knows personally as to the case before
us from the marriage of Mr. & Mrs. Moderwel?
The witness answered to the following effect viz:
Mr. & Mrs. Moderwel were married in Jan. 1821. In the
course of that in the succeeding summer it was discovered
by my family in which they resided that Mr. M. had
an unfortunate temper. At that time he was the Pastor
of the church in Augusta, of which a part of my family


535.
were members, in consequence of which many circumstances
connected with the display of this temper occurred, but were
by the family hushed up. In July 1824 at dinner at my
table & while Mr. Moderwel was a member of my family
conversations whose relative to some unfortunate circumstances
that occurred in conjunction with Mr. Dawns marriage
with Mr. Augustus Moores sister, in which expressions were
made relative to Mr. Ds treatment of her. Observations were
then made by the ladies reflecting upon Mr. Dawns conduct.
The ladies remarked that Mrs. D. had said that Mr. D.
had treated her badly & had even threatened her brothers life -
On which Mr. Moderwel remarked that he would not believe
Mrs. D. if she was to [?] till she was as black as his boot -
On which Mrs. M. remarked, Mr. M. you ought not to say this
relative to Mrs. D. She is a member of your church, a pious, good
woman, & her brother Mr. Moore your friend. Mr. M. raised
his eyes & said, Hold your tongue, Madam, who spoke to you -
His manner created astonishment in all present, it was so
unexpected. Mrs. M. dropt her knife & fork, & left the table,
& Mrs. McKinne soon followed her, without finishing her


536.
dinner. Mr. M. then in a passion rose from the table, &
on going up stairs, called Martha, bring me the keys up
stairs. After remaining there a short time, he came to the head
of the stairs & again called Martha bring me the keys - She
having not heard the first time, being hard of hearing. Perceiving
him to be in a passion & not willing to trust her in a the room with
him; took the keys from her & carried them to him, found him
striding across the room, closed the door behind me, presented
him the keys, & remonstrated with him as to his conduct -
His reply to me was that he knew his rights & was determined
to maintain them. He then proceeded to collect his clothes, then
stepped into the piazza & ordered the boy to get his carriage.
The carriage was brought to the door. Mr. M. passed down towards
it without saying a word to any body - On seeing which Mrs. M.
called on Mr. M. Where are you going? I am going down the
country said he, without turning back to look at her. He
went to Mrs. Whiteheads in Burke Co. as his letter to Mrs. McKinne
says - In two or three days he returned to Augusta, when he
wrote an apologetic letter to Mrs. McKinne dated July 29. 1824
which is as follows - My Dear Friend - It is not an indication of


537.
pusillanimity when in sorrow to confess it - I have been tearfully
in the wrong - I have broken your peace & interrupted your
domestic tranquility & I ask your forgiveness - My object in
leaving home & going to Mrs. Whiteheads was, that I might
alone & uninfluenced carefully view my conduct - This I have
done prayerfully & I have been lead to adopt the determination
that (thro the grace & strength of God) by a kind, conciliatory,
& respectful demeanour I will make reparation for the injury
I have done - This you can show to Martha - I shall be
up in the evening - Your sincerely,
Augusta, Thursday, [?] Wm. M.
To this a reply was given by Col. McKinne at Mrs.
McKinnes request on the same day which is as follows viz:
So long as Mr. Moderwel will conduct himself towards the
females of my family as I do, I shall be glad to see him -
But I must say a contrary course will produce feelings
I truly wish to avoid - J. McKinne, July 29. 1824 -
This note of Col. McKinne Mr. M. regarded as an
insult, & wrote a harsh reply to it founded on threats
inferred by him to be contained in it - Which letter is


538.
as follows - Sir, Your threat contained in your note of
this afternoon has produced the effect you doubtless
intended, viz, my exclusion from your family - I shall
say nothing vindictive & revengeful; but I must be
allowed to say that if you imagined me composed of
such pliable & unintelligible materials as would yield
to every rude & uncourteous [?] - Especially after a
respectful & conciliatory note had been addressed to the
party aggrieved, you have been most egregiously
mistaken
July 29. 1824- Wm. Moderwel
He also addressed the following note to Mrs. Moderwel
My dear Martha, I confidently expected to see you
this evening, but shall be denied this satisfaction in
consequence of the receipt of a note from your Uncle
this afternoon; in reply to one I addressed your Aunt
in the morning - I shall say nothing of the character
of this short communication, except that its sentiments
utterly forbit my ever seeing you at Col. McKinnes -
I am your affectionate
July 29. 1824 husband - Wm. Moderwel


539.
Mrs. Moderwel then wrote to Mr. to Mr. Moderwel deferring
him to return home - My Dear Husband - I cannot express
the astonishment I felt (or my return from Prayer Meeting
last Evening) at the strange course you had determined on &
the still stranger reason you assigned for it - Whatever
Uncle may have written, I am authorised to say, that he
intended nothing more, than that due [?] & respect
should be maintained towards all the females of his
family - In this I know you have of late been
very deficient - It will be however unnecessary for
me to enumerate the instances, as your own memory
will doubtless readily furnish them - I deny that I
said or did any thing on Monday that ought to have
called forth a single harsh expression from you, much
less, such as you gave me at dinner - I do not however wish
or intend to reproach you - I would ask you this: Does
your reason justify you in supposing that Uncle intended
to widen the breach between us, in his note yesterday, when
all his effects have been hereto intended evidently to
reconcile us & induce us to live in peace & harmony -


540.
I am sure that upon cool reflection you cannot give the
note the interpretation you mentioned - I must also
make another observation - Your expressions of late have
been frequently in my presence (to say the least of it) unjustifiable
to Uncle - An apology was therefore due to him,
& as the head of the house, I think it would have been
most proper, that should have written him yesterday.
I hope you will prove by your subsequent conduct,
that your penitent feelings have not already
vanished, but that they are durable & sincere - I am
sure that you know too much of my Uncles [?]
& generosity of disposition to think for a moment
that he does not wish you to return - I shall send
George down with the Carriage expecting you will
be up this evening, & that the Lord may incline
your heart into the way of peace & righteousness, is
the fervent prayers of your ever affectionate and
faithful - M. Moderwel
Sand Hills July 30th 1824 -
At this time my house was Mr. & Mrs. Moderwels


541.
home - The following letter from Mrs. McKinne to Mr.
Moderwell was then read. Summerville July 30. 1824, The
receipt of Mr. Moderwels writ of yesterday so completely unnerved
me as to prevent my replying to it by the return of George
& indeed as he mentioned his intention of coming up in the
evening I thought a verbal reply at that time would
answer every purpose. You having rightly judged when you
say I have broken your peace. You have actually done
so. But you have asked my forgiveness & promised
to make reparation for the injury you have done me,
I therefore most cordially forgive you & hope by the grace
of God you will be enabled for the future to walk
more circumspectly, remembering that unto Them you must
render account for all your conduct. The note Mr. McKinne
addressed to you yesterday was not a reply to the one you
wrote me. He considered himself aggrieved as well as
the other members of the family, to whom you had made
no apology, & under this impression he addressed you.
I revised the note & cannot constitute any part of it
into a threat. I beseech you to be calm, & to reflect


542.
seriously before you act, remembering the responsibility of
your station & that the eyes of the world are upon you.
That you may be guided by divine wisdom in the service prayer
of your friend,
M. McK.
Mr. M. returned in the evening, but in an ill humour, &
From that time until the day before Christmas, altho staying
in my house he never spoke one word to me - On that day
he removed to his own house in Augusta, but returned the
next day to mine, in order to dine with a friend, when he
spoke to me - We then were reconciled & conversed again -
after which time not a week passed in which Mrs. M.
did not come over in distress - Being asked what was
the matter! Oh Aunt or oh Uncle, the same trouble over
again - until it resulted in the expulsion of Miss
Jones from the house, whether she had gone to reside
at the request of her Aunt, in the hope that she would
be company & a comfort to her sister & a check to
to Mr. Moderwels bad temper & ill treatment -
Dr. & Mrs. Powel the grandparents of Mrs. M. & Miss
Jones being on a visit to Augusta to see their


543.
daughter Mrs. McKinne, & as they would go to spend some
days with their granddaughter Mrs. Moderwel, with
whom they hear that her sister Miss Jones was residing,
& if she was not there that cause would be
given for astonishment & enquiry, Mr. M. came over
to my house in [?] & intreated Miss Jones to
return - Miss Jones returned at his request and
remained until her grandparents were gone home,
soon after which by his outrageous conduct again
drove her from his house - & a servant brought
a message from him to her, saying, that if he
caught her there again he would [?] her,
since which she never has returned -
The summer after (1825) Mr. Moderwel rented
a house of Capt. Ketchum on the Hill - Soon after
removing there Mrs. M. ran over one evening in apparently
great distress; on being asked what was the matter,
she replied Oh Mr. M. is in a great passion & has
got a gun to shoot Dilly & I was afraid my own
life will be in danger by staying there - After some


544.
conversation, evening came on, when Mrs. Moderwel discovered
that she had the keys of the [?] or closet, and wished to
send them home, and not being willing to trust them to a
servant, I offered to take them myself and did so. On
reaching his house I found him in a great passion, delivered
him the keys, and conversed with him on the impropriety
of his conduct and warned him that the public would
find him out. Then he declared that if the girl was not
sent off to New=Orleans and said, by his maker, he would
seperate from his wife. This was the first time in my recollection
that the expression was used - tho often afterwards
repeated. - In 1826, on returning from the country in
the evening, I saw Mr. Moderwel standing by the steps
looking into my house - On approaching him, he turned
round and demanded of me his wife and servant, who
were, he said, secreted in the house. I replied to him,
I do not know if your wife is in my house, but if
she is as I have often told you, Sir, it is her house
as often [*and as long*] as she chooses to make it so, and if a servant
is made her protection, she is safe. After a little


545.
debate between Mr. Moderwel and myself, Mrs. McKinnie
and Miss Jones who had been out came home. Mrs. Moderwel
looked out from the piazza above and solicited her Aunt
to go up stairs. Mr. Moderwel and myself continued conversing
on the subject, Miss Jones being present, then my
nephew John came where we were, and entreated Mr. Moderwel
to go home, soon after which he drew a knife from
his pocket and attempted to stab me. Miss Jones screamed
out, Mr. Moderwel has a knife. I threw up his arm as
he attempted to use it; my nephew jumped in between us, pushed
him away and begged him to go home; soon after which he retired.
Mrs. Moderwel remained a day or two at my house,
when Mr. Moderwel feeling sensible of his condition
began to write to his wife desiring her return, promising
good behaviour in future and saying that if his misconduct
was repeated, she might then give him up forever.
Note as follows. My dear Martha What shall I say to
induce your return - My punishment is greater than I can
bear in my solitary condition. - Have pity upon me and say
whether you will come over this Evening; and I solemnly


546.
declare that if I ever again am guilty of misconduct,
you may leave me, and that forever.
July 8th Signed William Moderwel
My dear Martha, If you are too much indisposed to
come over this morning - Do let me know when you will
return. If you knew how much I am suffering, I know you
would commiserate my condition - O my wife, for Gods
sake return, I make but this one more experiment and if
it fails then give me up. Your unhappy William Moderwel
Dated 8. July 1829. - The next incident took place at the time
of Mr. Moderwels setting off to attend Synod in Charleston -
Upon which occasion his wife and her sister wished to pay
a visit during his absence, to their brother in Scriven, to
enable them to do which Col. Jones had sent his carriage
for them - During the afternoon, while preparing to set off
on their journey, Mr. Moderwel got in a violent passion,
and refused to accompany them - The Ladies proceeded
with no other protection but a servant, on that evening
to Mrs. Powels 8 miles from town, where after sometime
he overtook them, but his ill humour continuing, he


547.
declared his intention of going on to the mills that might instead
of which he missed his way and staid all night at Genl.
Nalkins plantation, as I was informed, thrown out of his [?]
and his arm broken or elbow dislocated The ladies from his passion
and menaces afraid to keep the direct road took sight of him
once and went by Waynesboro, and Mrs. Bonnels for fear of
meeting him on the road - They could not in consequence reach
the Mills that night, and on their arrival next day found that
Mr. Moderwel had not come - nor did he arrive for a day or two
afterwards. Here was introduced the following letter from Mrs.
McKinne to Mrs. Moderwel to rebut some assertions of Mr. Moderwel
relative to her. Viz. Sommerville December 13nd 1827.
My dear Martha, & Sarah, Your letters of Friday, Sunday,
and Tuesdays dates, were all handed to me last evening; and
some two, or three, years ago; might have caused me a sleepless
night. But the frequent reoccurance, of similar conduct to
that, which you have detailed, has in a measured [?]
my sensibilities: and although distressed, and mortified,
always at such recitals; I no longer feel the anxiety I
formerly did. This state of things, cannot much longer exist


548.
it is not however, worth while at present, to enter fully into a subject,
we have as often discussed. As regards Mr. Moderwels arm, I should
apprehend no danger, from your statement; but hope that you,
my dear Martha will always act, so as to have, an approving,
conscience. Be attentive, and kind to him, and as long as
you live together, discharge your duty faithfully - And you
my dear Sarah, I would advise to be, at least respectful,
in your conduct towards him. This cause, I have endeavoured
to pursue myself, and although I have sometimes been
insulted, feel a pleasure in knowing, that no act of mine,
has been calculated, to elicit such conduct. Set your primary
object be to keep a conscience said of offence, toward God, and
toward man. M. McKinne A four days however, before
the journey to Scriven, Mrs. Moderwel ran over very much alarmed
as Mr. Moderwel was in a passion, had a knife in
his hand and threatened to cut [*off*] Mrs. Moderwels ears.
After which she staid a day or two at my house, until
Mr. Mderwel came to his senses when he wrote the
following note to solicit Mrs. Moderwels return. viz.
July 7th 1829. My dear Martha, I had hoped the


549
Almighty would have inclined your heart towards me
in my miserable condition - and that you would at least
have allowed me the happiness of seeing you once more.
Can you not my dear wife come over and see me - If
terms of the bitterest anguish could make any atonement
for my misconduct, they have been said, and that
profusely - I wish to see you, and pray God to induce you
to comply with the request of the one who loves you, and who is
in the deepest abasement and distress - Do write
me a line, informing me of your determination -
Signed - William Moderwel
7th July 1829. My dear Martha, I am done drinking
and if ever I resume the habit then abandon me -
But not until you make one more effort. I am
now so sick as to require your attentions, and I do
believe unworthy as I am, that I shall not plead for
them in vain - Do my dear wife, come over, and at
least allow me the opportunity of conversing with you.
Yours sincerely William Moderwel
Shortly after this Mr. Moderwel went to Florida, a day
550.
or two previously to which according to mutual understanding,
his wife took occasion to visit her brother
in Screven County, and her Grandmother in Sonisville,
with whom she spent the time of his absence. Mr. Moderwel
called at Mrs. Powels on his return and asked if Mrs.
Moderwel was there - Mrs. Moderwel came to the door,
when he, without alighting from his carriage demanded
the reason why she was absent from home? Mrs.
Moderwel replied that her Grandmothers horses were
sick, and she could not go over until the next week.
at which time Mrs. Powel came to the door, and
asked Mr. Moderwel if it was possible he was not going
to alight? He said no: but as he rode off, Mrs. Powel heard
him say, I care not if you never return home again,
or if I never see you again. This was on Saturday, he
went to Mrs. Soweys four miles off where he passed the
night and went to Augusta on the Sabbath.
On Monday after, he wrote a note to Col. McKinne
proposing a formal separation from his wife, commencing
a correspondence to her and myself on this subject,


551.
which resulted in Mrs. Moderwels return. Notes as follows.
viz. William Mderwels requests to Col. McKinne to loan him
a marriage Settlement which will be returned - Should
Col. McKinne decline, as he has before done, the loan of
papers over which he has no control, He will oblige
by giving the Book and paper on which, said Settlement
is recorded - The above was read on Sunday
afternoon 14 past 5 oclock May 23rd 1830. The following
is a reply to it. I [*McKinne*] not being in possession of any
marriage Settlements, knows not in what book or at
what paper, any one is recorded. - Col. McKinne,
Sir. I write you under feelings entirely overpowering -
Mrs. Moderwels conduct is such as obliges me to make
the very [?] request for a trial, and as I sincerely
hope for a peaceful [*and affectionate*] seperation. - This is the third
time that by desertion she has kept me out of the ministry. -
I do not believe she would act this unless
influenced by others. - I have no unkind feelings
towards you and Mrs. McKinne, tho you have both
deceived me. - Pardon this expression, I may have


552.
deceived you - I remember with painful regret
the days of old when I considered one of you as
my Father, and the other my mother - I am now
far from the land of my nativity, without wife,
or friend, and may I not add hme - I request
you to make some early arrangement by which
I may be sundered from her I sincerely live, and
seek my fortune in some distant [?]
Monday Evening William Moderwel
Reply - viz. Sandhills February 15th 1831.
Sir, I did not reach home until later
last evening, or your note of yesterday would have
at once replied to - I can only say with regard
to its contents, that I presume neither Mrs. Moderwel
or her friends, will object to the separation you propose;
and that I shall take an early opportunity
of making your wish on the subject known to
her - In the mean time, any proposition from you
with regard to the arrangement shall have my
early attention, so soon as I return from Burke


553.
where I expect to go early tomorrow Signed J. McKinne
Col. McKinne, Sir, I hereby recall the offensive
note addressed to you in my last - It has ever been to
me the occasion of resigned regret that I should
have been so infatuated as to have written that note -
The one of Monday (which I desire also to recall)
was written under feelings lacerated at the [?]
of against entering into this dreadful solitude without
the presence of a single white person to cheer
and comfort me - I should be exceedingly unhappy
if Mrs. Moderwel was even informed of the
contents of that note, and I entreat that she
may not be - I saw for a few moments at Sommerville
when she stated her intention to return this
week - I trust we shall meet as if no correspondence
had passed between us - I am certain I shall
be utterly and irrevocably lost if she deserts me.
My feelings are now tender under the presence of
indescribable distress - I am anxious to become
reconciled to the family, and if you will allow


554.
me interview this morning, I hope this may be
done - and that I may yet live to be a comfort to
my dear little family, a happiness to its friends,
and a useful member of Society.
Yours kindly William Moderwel
The above note was received on Monday Morning
Wednesday February 16th 1831. Reply. February 16th 1831
Mr. Moderwels note of this morning, will be
more fully answered hereafter than my present
time will admit of - as I have just returned
from the country, and am compelled to go to
town immediately - J. McKinne -
If Col. McKinne could form any
estimate of my sufferings, I believe he would
commiserate my unhappy condition, and
not decline a prompt reply to my note of yesterday -
I am miserably afflicted - I have
solicited the favour of a friendly interview
and this request will I trust at once be granted.
Thursday afternoon February 17th 1831. - William Moderwel


555.
Reply. viz. February 17th 1831.
Mr. Moderwel, Sir, as
I contemplate going to morrow or next day to
Burke, as I mentioned in my note of Tuesday
last, and being unusually pressed for time ere [?]
I cannot have an interview with you before my return.
By then, I shall have more leisure, to reflect on
the past, present and probable future, and should
you then desire an interview, I shall be sufficiently
at leisure to see you. - J. McKinne -
Will Col. McKinne have the kindness to relieve
my anxious and afflicted mind, on one point, that is
that nothing shall be done on the subject of my note of
Monday Evening, and that Mrs. Moderwel shall not be informed
of its contents - I love her most sincerely, and will
endeavour on your return, to act towards you and the
family the part of a broken hearted and penitent man -
Can Col. McKinne say on what day I may expect
my dear Martha home - William Moderwel
P.S. Col. McKinne, as you are pressed for time I


556.
will not trouble you farther, than to reply to this, and say,
when you will be back yourself.
The above note and postscript was received at 14 before 5.
oclock P.M., Thursday February 17th 1831 - and not answered.
Col. McKinne, Sir, I now renew the request
made previous to your departure for Burke - I should
have solicited an inteview with Mrs. McKinne
and yourself this day, but have been confined most
of it to my bed by indisposition - May I ask this
favour at some hour to-morrow that will be convenient
to you. - William Moderwel February 23rd 1831.








My very dear Martha, A sense of
duty and my strong affection for you, prompt me
to make one more effort to induce your return -
I believe you are not indifferent to me, but sincerely,
sympathized with me in this my distressing exigency-


557.
I am now wretched and solitary - far from the land
of my nativity, and without the presence of her who
alone on earth can afford relief to this distressed and
troubled soul of mine - I am sincerely sorry for my
past misconduct, and I wish to make amends for
it - I desire to be useful, and this I can be, if you
return to me - If you do not, I am a lost and
ruined man, and that you must know - and will
you not my dear wife make one more effort to see
your wretched husband? Will you not make sacrifices
to raise him to usefulness and respectability? I
know you will - Set this be the final effort, and
if, after this, whether at home, or abroad I am guilty of
the slightest aberration from propriety, then leave me,
and this letter shall be your warrant for so doing -
If you will return to me my dear Martha, I will
study your peace, and endeavour to promote it
by all the means in my power - I do not
think the occurrences at Louisville were sufficient
to cause all this distress - I deeply regret them


558.
and pray God to over-rule them for his glory and our
good - I know not what to write for such is the
state of my mind, and such the agony of my
feelings, that I am at times almost bereft of
reason - Odo return once more - I entreat you -
Wife of my bosom I entreat you to return to
me, and that speedily - I entreat you by all
my agony and self=reproach - I entreat you
by the prospect of my future usefulness and
respectability - I entreat you by the ashes of
our dear little babe (the pledge of our earliest and
fondest love) that [?] so sweetly in yonder
peaceful and silent tomb - I entreat you to return
to me, and save your wretched and unhappy
husband from plunging himself into the dark
and awful gulch of absolute desperation -
If you desert me every avenue to my earthly happiness and prospects is [?] closed.
If you desert me after the tender and beseeching
appeal I now make you, I shall deplore
it, and pray that you may not have occasion
to do so forever, and ever - I wish you to give me


559.
a final answer by George, for this dreadful state
of suspense is more than I can endure many days
longer - I am as ever your affectionate, but
now deeply distressed and unhappy husband -
Thursday night March 3rd 1831. William Moderwel


The following note in Mr. Moderwels hand but without
his signature dated May 23rd 1830 was introduced into evidence,
and should have been inserted on page 551 - viz -
John McKinne knows himself to be a liar by note
of this afternoon - and that he is a villain I know and will
with pleasure resent any indignity, even the slightest that
he may offer - I shall keep his note as an evidence of
his lying - Any man who will say that he is not
in possession of a paper, which he himself has seen,
and read in the presence of others, is a beast
I shall meet you at Court.


560.
Besides the showing of the notes, the interview
desired with Mrs. McKinne and myself was granted
him, and on his protestations of sorrow and
future good conduct Mrs. Moderwel returned to him.
After this, Mr. Moderwel continued visiting at my
house until a short time before Mr. Perkins marriage
with Miss Jones, when he broke off altogether for reasons
unknown to us, tho believed by all to have arisen from
his not being invited to perform the marriage
ceremony, which marriage took place at Louisville
at the house of Mrs. Powel -
After his restoration to the Ministry, he continued his abuse from
the house, and declined all interviews with the family -
Soon after which his unfeeling conduct towards Mrs. Moderwel
was received; abusing her friends about money matters,
accusing them of cheating, and acting in such a way
as to render her miserable, causing her almost daily to
flee over to her Aunt for advice and consolation in her
situation - denying the validity of the marriage contract,
and claiming the whole of the trust estate as his own;


561.
refusing his consent to her getting money to travel when advised
so to do for her health; and threatening frequently to carry
her Uncle and Aunt into court to answer for their misdeeds,
as he called it - He demanded also the resignation of Col.
McKinne as trustee. - The following letters were then introduced.
Viz: Col. McKinne, Sir, As my wishes to avoid every thing
irritating and unpleasant, I submit to you whether
the absence of that cordiality which is so indispensable
to the transaction of business, oughtt not to induce
you to resign, as Mrs. Moderwels trustees; and afford
the opportunity for the appointment of two persons
entirely disinterested, and who shall be in all respects
perfectly unexceptionable - In proposing this measure
of peace, I wish it to be distinctly understood, that I
do not by it in the slightest degree confirm the marriage
settlement, but reserve to myself the right at any time
of invalidating it, by a full statement of the
circumstances under which it was made -
Very respectfully &c.
June 12th 1832. William Moderwel. -




562.
Reply: Viz: June 13th 1832. Mr. Moderwel, Sir,
In reply to your note of the 12th instant, I take leave
to say that, as I sought not to become Mrs. Moderwels
trustee, I shall with pleasure resign as such, whenever
she desires it, or your show that, I have been unfaithful
in the discharge of my duties in that capacity -
Respectfully of J. McKinne. -
Col. McKinne, Sir, I submit the following
reply to your note of the 13th received yesterday, in
which you say, that you sought not to become Mrs.
Moderwels Trustee- It cannot be forgotten by you that
after having repeatedly refused to make the marriage settlement,
I was at length induced to do so, in
consequence of the oft repeated protestation, that the
Trustees were to have nothing to do with this
business; that the propriety was to be as much mine
after making it, as it was before - and entirely
subject in all respects to my management, and
control - Had not these declarations been made
to me day after day, you know that the marriage


563.
settlement would never have been made, and consequently,
that there would not now exist even the semblance
of a pretext for your acting. - You say further, that
you will resign whenever Mrs. Moderwel desires it -
The meaning of this I comprehend disticnty - Her
desires are in entire accordance with your own; for
your word is her law, and you might as well interrogate
yourself on this point as consult her. - In remarking
on the third and last ideas contained in your note,
I cannot conceal my unaffected astonishment
at the indirect abortion of your fidelity in the discharge
of these duties; for I had supposed that being
aware of the ample and undeniable proof in my
profession in relation to your doings, you would
have frankly admitted something more than unfaithfulness. -
In this commenting on what you yourself
have introduced into this correspondence, I disclaim
all intention of unnecessarily [?] your feelings -
It remains to be seen whether you will continue to act
in opposition to my known and expressed wishes. -


564.
If you do not resign and afford the opportunity
for the appointment of two persons entirely disinterested;
and if this property is not divided, and made
available for the wants of my family who for more
than four years have been without the comforts, and
very frequently during that period (as cannot be
unknown to you,) without the most indispensable
necessaries of life; I tell you explicitly, that consequences
will be induced of no common character,
and which you, and others may have occasion
deeply to deplore - I am very respectfully &c.
June 20th 1832. William Moderwel.
Reply: Viz: June 20th 1832. Mr. Moderwel,
Sir, For your note of this date, I feel contempt,
utter contempt, because it contains falsehoods
against whom ? I say, against your wife (rather
than which honorable men should die) and
against - J. McKinne. - P.S. to the above without
signature. viz: I shall neither receive from or
send to you; future reports by servants.


565.
Query, proposed to Col. McKinne by one of the Presbytery; -
Who first suggested the idea of a marriage
settlement? Answer: It originated in a conversation
between Mr. Moderwel, Mrs. McKinne and Judge
Ried, as the latter told me - the Judge having brought
over some papers relating t my marriage settlement;
the question was asked by one if it would not answer in
his case (Mr. Moderwels) when it was answered
certainly; and Judge Ried was directed by Mr.
Moderwel, to propose it after which as Judge Ried
informed me, Mr. Moderwel called on him, paid
him for it and appeared perfectly satisfied. - A
schedule of the amount of income from the Trust-Estate
containing the amounts collected by Mr. Moderwel
was then handed in and also a letter from Col. Jones
stating the amount of principal paid in to Mr. Moderwel
out of the Trust-Estate. - Soon after this the
troubles recommenced; and after various courses of
conduct Mr. Moderwel be proposed [*a separation on certain conditions - viz:*], that Mrs.
Moderwel should live with him until April, when
566.
they would part amicably. - He afterwards wrote to Col.
McKinne or sent word by Mr. A.D. Miller and Judge Songstreet,
that if he would give him (Mr. Moderwel) 15000 Dollars
and satisfaction on the execution assigned over
to the Trust-Estate, by the Bank, he would give up
Mrs. Moderwel and he balance of her fortune
and go where he would never trouble them again.
This was refused, where seperated propositions
were made by him to separate, provided he was
paid for it. - Query here put by the Presbytery; -
Do you think any mutual affection remains
between Mr. and Mrs. Moderwel? Answer: I
cannot believe any woman of delicacy can have
any affection for one, acting as he has done,
nor can I think any man who had a disposition
to part from a wife, and take from her the last
dollar she had, could have any. - Mr. Moderwel
Repeatedly used the words, that, by his maker if
such and such were not done he would
separate from Mrs. Moderwel.


567.
I would also mention that besides the 5000 Dollars
received of the Trust-Estate from Col. Jones by Mr.
Moderwel and for which he has never accounted
and refuses to account; Mr. Moderwel has been
in the habit of receiving the income of the Trust-Estate
in his own hands amounting to 1600 Dollars
including the rent of the house in which he has
resided, and the hire of negroes in his service,
out excluding the rent of lots in Augusta, and
of the Oconee tract. - One exception [*here*] is necessary
to be made- back dividends on bank stock and
of money in Mr. John P Kings hands, being
withheld in consequence of his (Mr. Moderwels)
refusing to give receipts for it unless the whole
was paid into his hands, thereby depriving
Mrs. Moderwel of the use of any and every
part of it. - Questy by one of the Presbytery. -
Has Mr. Moderwel, as for as you know been
intemperate in the smallest degree since his restoration
to the ministry? Answer: Not in the


568.
least to my knowledge. -
Read to witness and approved -
I certify that the above abstract of testimony
of Col. John McKinne was read by me to the
witness, and approved by him. - James Jackson
Clerk Pro tem.
Mr. William Mann was introduced by the
Prosecutor as a witness; who being adjured, testified
as follows: By the Prosecutor, Question 1st Are
you a member of Col. McKinnes family? Answer,
Yes. Question 2nd How long have you been so?
Answer: Since the winter of 1818. Question 3rd
Before Mr. Moderwels connexion with that
family was there not peace in it? Answer:
Never knew any disquietude previous. Question
4th: Was not Mrs. Moderwel calculated
to make a reasonable man a good wife?
Answer: As much so as any person I ever
knew. Question 5th Has the conduct of Col.
McKinnes family been conciliatory towards Mr.


569.
Moderwel? Answer: In a high degree. Question 6.
What has been Mr. Moderwels conduct towards
that family? Answer: Not like that of a son: -
destitute of amiability. Question, 7th. State what
you know of Mr. Moderwels conduct towards
his Answer. During the first 5 or 6 years,
witness was young and did not know. Knows of
one instance of band conduct. One of his servants
offended Mr. Moderwel on their way to the Sandhills -
witness, Mr. and Mrs. Moderwel in the
carriage - Mr. Moderwel spoke so harshly to
Mrs. Moderwel that witness was indignant -
conduct generally of late unkind. -
Question 8th Did you ever receive any charges from
Mrs. McKinne, not to speak of Mr. and Mrs. Moderwels
disagreement? Answer: Repeatedly I have. -
Question 9th Did Mrs. McKinne give reasons for
secrecy? Did not wish domestic difficulties to be
emblazoned before the community. Mrs. McKinne
was a member of the Church of which Mr. Moderwel


570.
was Pastor. - Question 10th Do you know what
Mr. Moderwels conduct towards his wife has been
since his restoration? Answer. Have not spoken to him
since, not even seen him for about three years till
last Synod, when tho I saw him, I did not converse
with him. - Question 11th Have you had any
conversation with Mrs. Moderwel since that period on
the subject? Answer: Have had no conversation
with her since the restoration of Mr. Moderwel on
this subject. - Cross Examined. -
Question 1st Does witness know anything of
the intercourse between Mr. and Mrs. Moderwel for
the last three years? Answer: Have not seen
them together during that time (ie) three years.
Question 2nd Do you know any attempt on the
part of Col. and Mrs. McKinne to alienate the
affections of Mr. and Mrs. Moderwel? Answer:
I know of no attempt on the part of Mr. and
Mrs. McKinne to alienate Mrs. Moderwel from
her husband. - Question 3rd Did her


571.
appearance indicate deep distress when she fled?
Answer: Did give indications of deep distress
when she fled - was frequently bathed in tears and
rushed into her room speedily, without speaking
to the family. - Question 4th Any case of the
above kind of flight since the restoration? Answer:
Nothing of this kind known to Mr. Mann since Mr.
Moderwels restoration. - Question 5th Did
you ever have any difficulty with Mr. Moderwel?
Answer: Once had a personal encounter with
him - have no feelings of friendship towards Mr.
Moderwel, but feel like a brother towards Mrs.
Moderwel. - Question 6th Alas you present
when Mr. Moderwel drew a knife on Col.
McKinne? Answer: Know nothing concerning
the drawing of the knife. -
Read to witness and approved.
The committee then to whom was referred
the papers of Mr. Moderwel implicating the
proceedings of Presbytery and which he desired


572.
to be entered on the minutes, made their report
which was adopted and is as follows; -
The committee to whom was referred the document
which was read before this body by Mr. Moderwel
and desired by him to be entered as protest,
upon our minutes, beg leave to report,
That the second section of the eighth chapter
of the book of Discipline, requires more than one
member to enter a protest against the decisions
of this judicatory - and that the 8th section
of the same chapter plainly excludes every one
from the privilege of joining in a protest who
had not a right to vote in the decision against
which a protest is entered - and that consequently
Mr. Moderwel being alone, and upon his trial
before this body cannot constitutionally
enter a protest upon our minutes -
The committee would further remark that the
document submitted to them is not in the
regular for of a protest - that it contains


573.
statements which are palpably incorrect, and moreover,
it contains [*offensive*] reflections against this body - Your
committee would therefore take no further notice of
it than to file it among their papers.
Signed: James C. Patterson
Chairman. -
The following resolution was offered and adapted,
Resoled, That the paper laid on the table by Mr.
Moderwel containing charges against the Prosecutor
in his case the Rev. H. Reid, be laid on the
table indefinitely and disregarded as coming
from one who is himself under censure. -
The Brethren Patterson and Baker were appointed
a committee to prepare a narrative on the
state of religion to be submitted at the meeting
of Presbytery at Bethel in Colombia County. -
The Brethren McAlpin and Wilson, were
appointed a committee to prepare a pastoral
letter to the churches under our care. -
On motion of Charles C. Mills a ruling
574.
elder, Resolved, that the Presbytery hereafter at
its annual meetings shall call on the Representatives
of each church within its bounds
to state fully and at large the nature and
extent of the support given to their respective
ministers - the nature of the obligations existing
Between the Churches and their Pastors, and
how far such obligations have been complied
with. - Presbytery had a recess until 8. oclock P.M.
Athens 8. oclock P.M. August 12. 1833.
Presbytery met. A motion was made to bring
the case of Mr. Moderwel to a close, which
was carried. The following preamble and resolution
were there submitted to wit: Whereas it
has been clearly proved to this Presbytery that
the Rev. William Moderwel is living in a
state of separation from his wife, to the great
injury and reproach of the cause of Christ,
therefore, Resolved, That the Rev. William Moderwel
be deposed from the Gospel Ministry. -


575.
Before the vote was taken on the adoption of this
Resolution, the Rev. Doctor McWilkes who was present,
was requested to lead in special prayer for divine
direction. - The roll was then called, and the votes
taken, when it was found that the above Resolution
deposing the Rev. William Moderwel from the
Gospel Ministry, was adopted by a majority of
26 to 1. - Messrs. Patterson, Quillin, Reid,
Baker, Marks, Pond, King, Redd, Harrison, and
Montgomery had leave of absence from the
remainder of the present sessions. -
Presbytery adjourned til tomorrow morning
at sunrise. - Concluded with prayer. -
Athens, Tuesday Morning, sunrise August 13th 1833.
Presbytery met and was opened by prayer -
Members present as yesterday. The minutes of
the last session were read - On motion, resolved
that the trials of Mr. Jackson a candidate
for licensure under our care, be taken
up. Mr. Jackson was therefore examined


576.
on the last 8 chapters of the Confession
of Faith. - On motion Resolved, that
Col. McKinne have the papers read in his
testimony against Mr. Moderwel and that
according to his suggestion, he be requested
to prepare copies of them, and transmit
the same to Major James Jackson at Athens
to be sent to the stated Clerk -, he promising
however to hold the originals subject to the
call of the Presbytery when it may need them. -
Presbytery had a recess till 8. oclock A.M.
Athens August 13. 1833 - 8. oclock A.M.
Presbytery met. Mr. Samuel Baldwin obtained
leave of absence. Presbytery resumed the
examination of Mr. Jackson. His examination
on Theology was continued. He was
also examined on Church Government,
Ecclesiastical History, Languages and the arts
and Sciences. His examination on the arts
and Sciences was sustained as part of trial. -


577.
He was instructed by Presbytery to pursue farther
the other subjects for examination at the next
annual sessions of Presbytery. - The candidate
then also read a lecture on the 133 Psalm, and
an exegesis on the subject heretofore assigned him,
which were sustained as parts of trial prior to
licensure. - The committee on the subject
of Foreign Missions reported the following resolutions. -
1st Resolved, that the several members
of Presbytery be called upon to state what they have
done or are doing in their several Congregations
on the subject of Foreign-Missions. -
2nd Resolved, that it be requested of the members
of Presbytery, who have or may have any funds,
in their hands to transmit them as early as
possible to the Committee of Deposits, the Rev.
S. K. Talmage, R. Chamberlain, and S. J.
Cassels, to be transmitted to the Pittsburgh
Board for the support of the Rev. John B. Pinney
missionary to Africa. -


578.
The meeting appointed at the last sessions
of Presbytery at Hopewell Jasper County, was
changed from the Thursday before the second, to
the thursday before the fifth Sabbath in September -
In addition to the brethren already appointed,
brother Mooney was appointed to attend this meeting.
On motion resolved, that at our next annual
meeting at Milledgeville, a Sermon be preached
on the subject of Foreign Missions - Brother Hoyt
is appointed to preach that Sermon, and Brother
Talmage his alternate. - The committee
to whom was referred the duty of preparing
a pastoral letter to the Churches under our care
reported and the report was accepted and
adopted, and the pastoral letter was ordered
to be published in the Charleson-Observer,
and when thus published to be read in all
the Churches. - The above mentioned letter is
as follows viz: Beloved Brethren, Convened
to deliberate on the interests of the Redeemers


579.
Kingdom, and devise measures for its advancement
we have deemed it our duty before closing the present
sessions of Presbytery to address you a few words
of the Council and advice. - In looking over our
beloved Zion we have formed little to cheer and encourage
our hearts. - Scenes of spiritual decay present
themselves on every side, to the meeting eye of tender
and undissembled piety. - As overseers therefore
of the flock of Christ, as Pastors whom God
has commanded to feed his sheep, and carefully
cherish his feeble lambs permit us to call you
attention to the following remarks. -
1st Is the standard of personal piety, brethren,
amongst you sufficiently elevated? God has placed
us in most interesting circumstances. We live
at an eventful period - The World is ripening
for the great harvest of the Millenial-day.
God expects [and] it of us and the condition of
the human family demands of you, more vigorous
efforts in the great work to be performed. -


580.
But without more holiness of heart - more
heavenly mindedness - more spirituality of life
and conversation, how can you accomplish
what is demanded of you as the children of God.
It may be profitable to contrast our state
with that of the primitive servants of God -
How holily they lived - how cordially they
co-operated in the work of Christ - what unity
of aim and exertion - what singleness of eye
to the glory of God - how willing to sacrifice
all, even life itself for the sake of the Redeemers
course. - There remains yet very much land to
be possessed Much of your own religion is yet
unattained - How small your faith - how feeble
your hope - how dwarfish and contracted
your charity, compared with that enlargement
of graces which characterized the early believers,
and which must exist before the universal
spread of the Gospel. -
2nd Next to your personal religion is not the


581.
standard too low in your families?
Brethren permit us to use great plainness with
you on this point, What is the state of family
religion? - Is the altar erected in your habilitation
on which the morning and evening incense is
continually offered? Are the [*Holy*] Scriptures daily read
in the domestic circle? Do you endeavour to
impress on those committed to your charge the
infinite worth of the soul? the vast importance
of religion - the shortness of mens probationary
state - the solemnities of death and judgement,
and the length of eternity? The work of catechising
we fear is much neglected. Her good old way in
which the fathers walked is in a measure abandoned.
The Sabbath-School, when it exists, is truly a
great auxiliary to parents in the work of family
instruction; yet it by no means releases them
from all responsibility. The rising generation
is the hope of the Church and the world -
Destined to act perhaps in the scenes


582.
of the Millennial day, how carefully should
they be prepared, by storing their minds with
divine truth? Do you require all your family
both children and domestics to attend when
you read Gods Word, and supplicate a throne
of grace? Or are they abroad in the field or folded
in the arms of sleep? These things ought not so
to be brethren? You have account to give at
the Bar of God. You have to meet these children
and servants at the final day? And how can
you who have never prayed in your families, nor
acknowledged thus in your ways - meet the all
scrutinizing eye of Jehovah on your trial at
the judgement-Bar? 3rd Connected with this
subject we would enquire what attention is
given to the publics means of grace?
Can you say as David said, One thing have
I desired of the Lord, that will I seek often
that I may dwell in the house of the Lord,
all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of


583.
the Lord, and to enquire in his temple - Has your
heart rejoiced when they said, let us go to the houses
of God? Do you strive for that preparation of heart,
which only can render the ordinances of the Sanctuary
profitable? Is it with prayer and thanksgiving
you enter the house of God? Do no worldly thoughts
or conversation unfit you for the holy employ of
public worship? Is the Sabbath morn spent in
holy meditation, and self examination? Is the
Sabbath evening spent in that manner which
is calculated to advance your spiritual interests?
But do you carry your children with you
to the Sanctuary, or are they permitted to roam
at large in insolence and vice? How unlike
the father of the Faithful, of whom Jehovah
testifies, I know him that he will order his
household after him etc. And like Abraham,
brethren have you dedicated your offering
to the Lord, and neglect to rear them in his nurture
and monition. Many there and we fear who in


584.
regard even to this first parental duty, the
consecration of their children to Gods service,
are awfully negligent? They either come tardily
to the discharge of duty, and appear at the
baptismal=font months after the Lord has blessed
them with their tender charge, or perhaps they
never come at all. We know that this is true in
many instances, that even some elders of the
Church have most criminally neglected this
duty. Tho they have in their ordination=vows
adopted our standards, as continuing the
truth of Gods word, But in practice they have
denied it, and set at nought the positive requirements
of our Confession of Faith. -
4th Again, There is an awful profanation of
the Sabbath throughout the Land. Let us
ask is the Church free from this evil?
Have you all ceased to desecrate Gods holy day
by travelling or pursuing your worldly evocations?
No man can excuse himself for the violation


585.
of this command. Remember the Sabbath day
to keep it holy - And that man who drives his
team on the Sabbath either going or returning
from market - he who sets out on a journey on
this day - or spends holy time in talking about
secular concerns - his crops - his Gold mines -
his lands, or the news of the day, is guilty of a
dreadful profanation. Let such hear the Word
of the Lord. If then turn away thy foot from
the Sabbath from doing thy pleasure on my holy
day: and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy
of the Lord honourable; and shalt honour
him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding
thine own pleasures, nor speaking thine own words:
then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord. Isaiah
58. 13, 14 - The redeeming spirit is in the
Church. If the commands of God are to
be regarded, the work must begin at the house
of God - The Sanctuary must be cleansed -
Gods own people must live more holy and


586.
harmless and undefiled.
5th Once more brethren; Contemplate the
dying command of the Saviour. Do this in
remembrance of me. Can any one who
loves Jesus disregard this injunction of the
friend of sinners? Can those who have tasted
the bitterness of sin, Who have tasted of the
wormwood and the gall, and have as a last,
an only refuge from the wrath of God, cast
their souls at the foot of the Cross, ever forget
the hour of their espousals - the moment
when they believed, and found a sin=pardoning
God, which afforded sweet peace of mind
and rapturous joy? How then can many professors
stand aloof, in our Churches, from
the Sacramental=Board, on which are
presented the emblems of the broken body
and shed blood of the Redeemer - Brethren
such a course of conduct, is all wrong -
entirely wrong - Every person is to be prepared



587.
to come to the Lords table, in absence to that
last, that dying command of Gods dear Son.
6th and lastly: we would remind you of
your duty to those who watch for your souls as
those who must give account - Esteem them
highly in love for their works - Remember
their wants - Contribute to their necessities - and
permit us here to call your attention to a
resolution moved by one brother Col. Charles
C. Mills, a ruling elder of the Church in
Milledgeville, during the present sessions -
Resolved: that the Presbytery hereafter at
its annual meetings shall call on the
nature and extent of the support given
to their respective ministers - the nature
of the obligations existing between the Churches
and their pastors, and how far such obligations
have been complied with. Regard this


588.
as a high and important duty which
God has enjoined. Ye are my friends
said the Saviour; if ye do whatsoever I
command you - Read the Scriptures that
you may know your duty, and having
learned it, go and do it. In conclusion,
dear brethren, we say to you in the words
of the Apostle, his farewell address to his
beloved Corinthian brethren. Be perfect,
be of good comfort, be of one mind, live
in peace and the God of love and peach
shall be with you. We must all soon
give account him that judgeth
righteously - If then we are indeed the
disciples of him (who lives and reigns
above, perfect joy and unfading glory
shall be our reward: but if we are deceived,
and are found to be only the pretended
friends of the Redeemer; darkness and despair
shall be our position. - Let us look
589.
well then to our prospects for eternity. There
will be awful disappointment at the judgement
seat of Christ. - Many will say in
that day Lord, Lord open unto us, to whom
he shall answer and say, depart from me I
never knew you, ye workers of iniquity. May
the love of Christ fill your hearts, and his
grace sustain you through all trials till
we meet in heaven, where our conversations
shall be sweet and uninterrupted, and
our joy everlasting, is the prayer of your
brethren in the Lord. The committee to whom
was referred the subject of Doctor Gouldings tract on
Baptism reported: The report was accepted and adopted, and
is as follows. Your committee appointed on the subject of
Doctor Gouldings tract, beg leave to report, that they have
received twenty dollars and ten cents, leaving a balance
unsold of twenty nine dollars and ninety cents worth:
and your Committee would recommend that some plan
be now adopted to dispose of the unsold tracts and


590.
that the money now on hand be sent immediately
to Doctor Goulding and the balance of the money
be forwarded as soon as it can be solicited from
the sale of the tracts. - On motin the petition
of the Church of Fairview was taken up, and after
some discussion it was on motion laid on the table
indefinitely. - Samuel J. Cassels was appointed
to transmit to Doctor Goulding the amount of money
in the hands of the Committee; to wit: thirty dollars
and ten cents arising from the sale of the tracts - and
that the remaining tracts be so disposed of money the
members as to raise the balance, due Doctor Goulding
as soon as possible. - Presbytery had a recess till
two oclock P.M. - Two oclock P.M. Presbytery
met. The minutes of the previous sitting were
read and corrected. - On motion, Resolved, that
Presbytery return their thanks to the citizens of Athens
for their polite attention in affording such ample
accommodations to them during their deliberations -
and that the Pastor be requested to make known


591.
this resolution from the pulpit. - The roll was called,
when it appeared that the Rev. Rober McAlpin and Elder
William Hodge were absent without leave. Presbytery
adjourned to meet at Bethel Church Columbia County
on Saturday before the first Sabbath in December
next at eleven oclock in the forenoon, concluded
with prayer, singing and the Apostolic Benediction.
Edwin Holt. Moderator. -
Samuel J. Cassels, Temporary Clerk.


89th Session. Bethel Church, Columbia
County 30th November 1833. Eleven oclock, A.M.
The Presbytery of Hopewell met according to adjournment.
Opened with a Sermon by H. Reid from I. Tim.
IV. 8th Godliness is profitable unto all things
having promise of the life that now is and of that
which is to come. - H. Reid the senior member
present was called to the Chair. Opened by prayer.
Members present; H. Reid, R. Chamberlain, and
S. J. Cassels, with the licentiate J. W. Reid; and


592.
the Elders Robert Flemming from Lincoln, Z. Williama
from Mount Olive, and James Tool from Bethel.
In the absence of the Moderator H. Reid was chosen
Moderator pro. tem. and S. J. Cassels temporary Clerk.
The Rev. J. Kennedy from the Presbytery of South =
Carolina being Present was invited to sit as a corresponding
member. The minutes of the last meetings
were called for; but were not present. The subject
of J. Reids ordination was taken up: and James
George applying to be taken under the care of
Presbytery, it was resolved to examine the two Young
Brethren at once as to the evidences of their piety
and motives which have led them to seek the
Gospel Ministry. Whereupon the Presbyter proceeded
to such examinations which were decided satisfactory.
It was then resolved to hear the Sermon
of J. W. Reids preparatory to ordination; and
accordingly Presbytery heard the Sermon. Presbytery
then had a recess to meet at the call of the chair.
5 oclock P.M. Presbytery met. James George


593.
having been examined to his piety as well as to the
motives which have led him to seek the Gospel Ministry;
and having also given sufficient evidence of his being
a Graduate of a Literary Institution and of his being
regularly connected with the Presbyteryian Church
in Athens, was received under the care of this Presbytery
as a candidate for the Gospel Ministry. The following
were assigned to the young Brethren as parts of trial
preparatory to Licensure: as an exegesis In quo differt
justificatis ab venia? as a critical exercise II. Cor. XII.
VII, VIII, and IX verses, together with the first sixteen chapters
of the confession of Faith, to be examined upon
at the next meeting of the Presbytery. Presbytery
then examined J. W. Reid on Philosophy, the Science,
the Languages, Ecclesiastical History, Theology, the
Sacraments and Church Government; which
examinations were all sustained. Whereupon, it
was resolved to ordain J. W. Reid as an evangelist
to preach the everlasting Gospel. And as tomorrow
will be the only convenient time and there


594.
is expected to be a full audience present; It was
resolved that the ordination take place on tomorrow
at eleven oclock A.M. Presbytery then adjourned
to meet tomorrow at eleven oclock. -
December 1st Eleven oclock A.M. Presbytery met.
Opened by prayer. The ordination Sermon of
J. W. Reid was preached by S. J. Cassels from
John VII. 46 Never man spake like this man
H. Reid delivered the charge. J. W. Reid was
Then Solemnly set apart and ordained as a
Gospel Minister by the imposition of the
hands of the Presbytery and took his seat as a
member. Presbytery adjourned until the annual
Meeting April 1834. H. Reid Moderator, pro. tem.
Samuel J. Cassels, Clerk pro. Tem.
90th Sessions:
Milledgeville April 3rd 1834.
The Presbytery of Hopewell
held its annual meeting pursuant to adjournment
and was opened with a Sermon by the


595.
Rev. Saml. K. Talmage, the Moderator appointed [*by the Synod*] to
discharge that duty, from Genesis IV. 9th And the Lord
said unto Cain, where is Abel thy brother? And he
said, I know not, Am I my brother's keeper?
Constituted with prayer; Members present, John
Brown D. D. Nathan Hoyt, Saml. K. Talmage
Robert McAlpin, Saml. J. Cassels and J. W. Reid
Ministers, with the Elders James Montogomery
from Thyatira, Edmund Baldwin from Monticello,
Joseph Bryan from Mount Zion, Zacariah Williams
From Mount Olive, E. A. Nisbet from
Madison, Benjamin Paul from Washington,
and R. K. Hines from Milledgeville. -
The minutes of the last Sessions being absent
Presbytery had a recess until two oclock P.M.
Two oclock P.M. Presbytery me, and in
the absence of the Moderator, Doctor Brown
the senior member present, was called to the
Chair. Rev. N. Hoyt was elected Moderator
and Rev. Samuel J. Cassels Temporary Clerk.


596.
The minutes of the last meeting were read
and confirmed. Rev. P. S. Wilson, Thomas F.
Scott and Edwin Holt from the Presbytery
of Goodhope being present were invited to
sit as corresponding members. The absentees
from the last meeting were called upon for
their excuses, Doctor Brown alone of the
member being present rendered an excuse
which was sustained.
The Rev. Sml. S. Davis from the Presbytery of Harmony,
by a regular dismission from the body to become connected
with this, was received as a member. Mr. Charles
W. Howard, by a regular dismission from the Second
Presbytery of Philadelphia was also received as a
Licentiate under our care. A committee was
appointed to make the necessary arrangements
for preaching during the present sessions of
Presbytery, which committee consisted of Mr.
Charles W. Howard together with the Elders Charles
C. Mills and R. K. Hines.


597.
S. J. Cassels, minister, and W. Dearing, Elder, were
appointed to attend the next meeting of the General
Assembly of the Presbyterian Church. Joseph H. Lumpkin,
Elder, was appointed the alternate of Mr. Dearing
Daniel Ingles and Joseph [*James H.*] Saye candidates under the
case of Presbytery being absent, their trials were continued.
The exegesis of J. C. Cazby being presented to Presbytery
was referred to a committee consisting of S. K. Talmage
minister, and E. A. Nisbet Elder for examination.
R. C. Ketchum applying to be taken under our care
as a candidate for the Gospel Ministry, was examined
on experimental religion, and the motives which
have led him to desire the ministry, which examinations
were sustained; and the Presbytery having
sufficient evidence of his being a regular member
in the Presbyterian Church, assigned him the following
as parts of trial previous to Licensure - for an
exegesis Ne Sacrificis - for a popular lecture Psalm
CX. 1 - 3 inclusive: - Rev. H. C. Carter appeared,
rendered reasons for tardiness and took his seat. -


598.
William Turk, Elder, from New = Lebanon appeared
and took his seat. On motion, resolved that,
hereafter the Elders appointed by the Churches as
delegates to this body, when tardy, be called upon
for their excuses as in the case of minutes.
The Presbytery Church in Milledgeville presenting
through a committee a regular call
for the ministerial services of Mr. Charles W. Howard,
a Licentiate under our care, to become their Pastor,
the call was accordingly place in the hands of
Mr. Howard, who signified his willingness to accept
it. Whereupon it was Resolved, that provided the examination
of Mr. Howard be sustained, Saturday
3 oclock P.M. be fixed upon as the time for his
ordination and installation, and that Rev. S.
J. Cassels preach the Sermon and the moderator
preside, give the charge and address the congregation.
Presbytery then proceeded to examine Mr. Howard on
experimental religion, and the motives which
have led him to seek the Gospel Ministry. -


599.
He was also examined on Philosophy, the Languages,
Church History, and Government, the Ordinances, and
Theology. all of which examinations were sustained.
Mr. Howard then read before Presbytery as part of
trial previous to ordination a Sermon from John
III. 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his
only begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him
might not perish but have everlasting life. which
was also sustained. Rev. R. Chamberlain
from the Presbytery of Goodhope, being present was
invited to sit as a corresponding member.
Presbytery then adjourned to meet tomorrow morning
at half past eight oclock. Friday morning
half past eight oclock, Presbytery met. Opened
with prayer. Present as yesterday - Moses Alexander,
Elder, from the Church of South Liberty, and
John Bloomfield, Elder from the Church of
Hopewell appeared and took their seats.
Rev. James C. Patterson of the Presbytery of Goodhope
being present was invited to sit as a


600.
corresponding member. A letter was received
from the Rev. H. Reid assigning reasons,
for absence from the present meeting of Presbytery
which were sustained. - The following charges
against Rev. H. Reid were preferred by Zachariah
Williams, who also undertook to be the prosecutor
in the case. I hereby present the following charges
against Henry Reid a member of this Presbytery.
1st For Forgery, in making use of the name of
John W. Reid without his permission in the
call of the pro re-nata meeting of Presbytery
Which met at Augusta on Friday the 28th of
June 1833. - 2nd For wilful and atrocious falsehood
in asserting on Friday the 28th of June 1833.
in Presbytery, that John W. Reid had authorised
him to use his name in the call of said Presbytery,
when he knew he had not. and n the
Friday evening or Saturday morning thereafter,
admitted to the said John W. Reid that he
had not invested him with that authority.


601.
The witness by whom the above charges will be established
are Doctor John Brown, William Quillin, William
Moderwel, John S. Wilson, and John W. Reid.
Milledgeville 4th April 1834. Synod = Zachariah Williams
On motion resolved, that the preaching of the
Foreign Missionary = Sermon appointed at the last
meeting be dispensed with. Resolved, that the session
Books be handed in and the reports on the state of
religion be made on tomorrow morning at 9
oclock, also that the reports of Church Sessions be
made at the same time. A letter was read,
addressed to the Moderator, from Rev. H. A. McHowell
D. D. on the subject of Domestic Missions, which was
referred to the Board of Missions to report as soon
as practicable. -
For a further account of the proceedings of the Hopewell =
Presbytery, See Volume Second.
Finis
- of -
_ Volume I. _




Formation of the Georgia Education Society 1823. / p. 208 - 22 /.
Missionary, Lexington 1828. / p. 246




Form of as metting members into
the church. pp. 267. 268.






1829. Presbytery Resolves itself into a total
abstinence To piety. p. 366.