Edgefield advertiser. [volume] (Edgefield, S.C.) 1836-current, 1851-07-03
THE POSITION OF TIE MINISTRY.

1y periods of excitement, like the present. when
painful anxiety for our future political destiny
troubles every patriotic heart it is difficult for any
of us to possess our spirits in that degree Of calm
ness, which is essential that our course may be
shaped with perfect propricty. We have thought
that, of all other men, the ministers of God found
this task most trying. The nature Of their office
is such as to render it probematical whether they
can, in accordance with the instructions of their
master, participate at all in the public discussion
of political questions. On the other hand, they
have the feelings of men and Of citizens, and can
not well forbcar the expression of their views up
on any question which touches the institutions Of
their country in vital point. Truly, it must be
hard for them to decide their course. 1t has often
been said in hearing, that The trials of preach
cr's life were the sevcrest known TO humanity. In
view Of the present dangers and doubts that sur
round and perplex US, calculated, rs they are TO
absorb the universal mind and to excite contcnding
feelings and opinions, we are ready to admit the
truth Of that remark. How shall they serve their
country and not displcase their God? We confess
ourselves totally unable to decide this doubt
The most satisfactory solution of it we have yet
seen, is contained in private letter recently ad-
dressed to us, as Secretary Of the Southern Rights
Association Of this district. 1t is from Divine,
generally admired and beloved for his mildness,
purity and intelligent zeal in the cause of his
religion.
We risk, perhaps, his displeasure by publishing
this letter; but we know it cannot bc injurious in
its effects, and as we honestly think it may do
much good, venture TO lay it before readers.
Heed we'll the calm temper and elevated tone
which characteristics it throughout.
COL ARTHUR SIMKIHs-Sir:-Yourn note and
the copy of the " Constitution of the Southern
Rights Association " have been received. You
inform that it is the wish of the Association
that should serve as one of the g s'COmmitee of
Vigilance Occupying the office that now do
in the Church, ! do not think it would he exped-
ent for me to take an active part in the political
affairs of the country. As minister Of the Cos
pei it becomes my duty to give myself wholly to
the work of theministry, while have opportunity.
II pefilous times should come | will then, when
my services are needed, obey my country's call.
No one I presume will deny NE the right CT
opinion. gladly embrace this opportunity, TO do
what Ihave never till now thought necessary
No one am persuaded. feels more sensibiy than |
do the insults and injuries heaped upon us blythe
General Government. believe the Southern
States should 'secede and form seperate govern
ment, If the States Of the Saut mot unite
in this noble cause, BELIEVES ii 10 The duty OF
South Carolina to make the effort With the means
she has, and trust in God for help. ..
The Association will confer on me favor by
appointing some one 10 act in the place of trust,
which their kind regard would have assigned me,
and forwhch lnow return them my hearty thanks,
hoping that they will ever find in me friend to
Southern Institutions and States Rights.
Yours Respectfully, A. P. n.