I could write much more in the line of these thoughts, but the chapters of this volume will give in clear light the characteristics which can only be hinted at in the limits of an introduction. The skilled pen of the biographer will bring out in forceful and charming manner the noble traits of the gifted brother whose career he has studied with great care and painstaking interest. Let the book have a wide circulation, let the youth read its inspiring sentiments, and the horizon of their thoughts will be enlarged and the desire to be loyal to God and to every good work will be stimulated and strengthened. T. C. CARTER. November 27, 1911. CONTENTS PAGE Preface 3 Introduction 4 CHAPTER ONE Ancestry—Picture of pioneer life—Imprisonment and release of Pompey Smash—Little Jack’s short-cut in the study of astronomy—The fate of his first pair of breeches 9 CHAPTER TWO The tragic death of the father—Removal to Parke County—School Days—Conversion—Change of church relationship—A remarkable providence 23 CHAPTER THREE Call to the ministry—First sermon—The boy preacher—Answering a fool after his folly—Turning a camp-meeting tide—Quieting a skirmish—Takes a wife 39 CHAPTER FOUR Conference membership—Brulitz Creek ministry—The modern knight and his steed—Abrupt closing of family devotions by a dog-on-the-preacher—An original marriage ceremony—A case of mistaken identity—A banner missionary collection—Shawnee Prairie pastorate—A cold day in April—The redemption of Hell’s Half Acre—Baiting for a perverse fish—An experience in the whisky business 51 CHAPTER FIVE Six months at Rainsville—A hot-bed of Southern sympathizers—A mix-up with saloon men—A sermon on slavery—Fire and brimstone—An antagonist outwitted—A sermon from the book of Newgent—Can any good thing come out of Rainsville? 70 CHAPTER SIX The war spirit in Indiana—Breaking up a traitorous plot—Narrow escape from enemies—Assists in securing recruits—Becomes chaplain of his regiment—Exchange of courtesies with a Presbyterian minister—An embarrassing predicament—Saves his regiment from capture—Organizes military church—Chased by Johnnies—An exciting homeward journey 80 CHAPTER SEVEN