Extracts from the Diary and Correspondence of the Late Amos Lawrence; with a brief account of some incidents of his life
Amos Lawrence
on him, and whose 'Well done' will be infinitely better than all things else. I believe he is awakening an interest to learn more about this country; and the people will be amazed to see what opportunities are here enjoyed for happiness for the great mass. What we most fear is _that_ ignorance which will bring everything down to its own level, instead of that true knowledge, which shall level up the lowest places, now inundated with foreign emigrants. Our duty is plain; and, if we do not educate and elevate this class of our people they will change our system of government within fifty years. Virtue and intelligence are the basis of this government; and the duty of all good men is to keep it pure. * * * "And now, my friend, what can I say that will influence you to come here, and enjoy with me the beautiful scenes upon and around our Mount Zion? "With the highest respect and affection, I am most truly yours, "AMOS LAWRENCE. "P. S.--Mrs. L. desires me to present to you and your lady her most respectful regard, with the assurance that your writings are very precious to her. She is a granddaughter to a clergyman of your 'Kirk,' and enjoys much its best writings." To the same gentleman he writes soon after: "And now let me speak about the 'Royal Preacher.'[14] I expected much, but not so m
