PREFACE.

"WE who have been acquainted with Mrs. McFarland more than thirty years," said an intimate friend, "will know whether what shall be written in her Memoir is true." With this remark in view, the author commits the work, with entire confidence, to the inspection and perusal, not only of her particular friends, and those who have known her by reputation, throughout the state; but also of distant strangers. It should, however, be added, that such was the characteristic modesty and humility of Mrs. McFarland, that her excellencies were not all visible even to the eyes 1*

of familiar acquaintances. Many things were brought to light after her death which greatly increase our admiration of her virtues, and which were not fully known before to all the members of her own family. Indeed, the perusal of her Memoir will confirm the impression, that her self-denial, diligence and perseverance in the duties of the christian life, were far greater than her most intimate friends ever supposed.*

The main design of this volume is to illustrate the scriptural truth, that "FULL ASSURANCE OF HOPE," in regard to one's own salvation, is the fruit and reward of faith in Jesus Christ-the atoning Saviour

*The facts in this Memoir have been collected from every accessible source. Much use has been made of Mrs. McFarland's diary, which she commenced at about the age of 21, and continued, with occasional intervals, nearly 27 years. Many interesting particulars have been furnished by the two eldest daughters, Mrs. McMILLAN of Conway, and Mrs. BUXTON of Boscawen.

combined with the diligent practice of every christian duty.

The fervent prayer of the writer is, that this Memoir, in the preparation of which he has found great comfort, amidst numerous parochial duties and deep domestic affliction, may be the means of leading the mothers and daughters of our Zion to a more entire consecration of their hearts and "ministration of their substance" to their adorable Lord-that they may copy the example of the "holy women of old," whose faith and works are recorded for their imitation--and finally, in the "full assurance of hope," triumph over the king of terrors!

CONCORD, March, 1839.

ABSTRACT OF A SERMON

ON THE

FORMATION OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER.

WITH a view to aid the readers of this work, and especially young christians, in their endeavors to attain "full assurance" of salvation, the author would here submit to their perusal a few DIRECTIONS, which in substance were contained in the Sermon which he preached to his own people on the Sabbath after the burial of Mrs. McFarland, and which, as will appear from the Memoir, is but an outline of her christian character.

1. Rest not in a bare profession of religion. You are now a member of the Church of Christ, in good and regular standing: Are you therefore safe? Does it follow, as a matter of course,