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PREACHING LADIES
An Historical Restorationof the Foundingof The
SalvationArmy in America
Sallie Cheshaln
The Salvation Army
Literary Department
i45 ミミst 15th Street
New York,NY 10011
1983
PREACHING LADIES
(EDITOR'S NOTE: This thrilling story of real people, placed in an
authentichistorical setting, has been written for your inspirationand
enjoyment. Becausecomplete information was not available, the author
has skillfully woven into the story some material which cannot be
documented.Therefore, if you wish to use any of the statementsor
stories for historical purposes,please check first with the Salvation
Army Archives and ResearchCenter, 145 West l5th Sfieet, New York,
NY l00ll, to confirm their authenticity.)
PHOTOS courtesyof: Mrs. Everald Crowell;
Coventry Evening Telegram;
The Salvation Army
ART courtesyof:
Julie Kennedy;
The SalvationArmy (periodicalsand books)
COVERART:
John Schmidt
Copyright O 1983The SalvationArmy, New York, New York
All rights reserved.No part of this publicationmay be reproducedor
transmittedin any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical,
including photocopy,recording,or any informationstorageor retrieval
system, without permissionin writing from the publisher.
ISBN No. 0-89216-045-4
SALLIE CHESHAM (Mrs.
Colonel Howard Chesham),daughter of CanadianSalvation Army officers S/C and Mrs. Robert Keeler,
has written features, stories,
poems, brochures,books, dramas,
songs,and musicalsthroughouther
career as a Salvation Army officer.
A book of her poetry, Walking
wilh the Wind, won the Chicago
PoetryAward; and her bookTrouble
Doesn't Happen Next Tuesday,the
story of her experienceswith a Chicago streetgang, won the Chicago
Publishers' Award, both presented
by The Societyof Midland Authors.
Mrs. Chesham is an honorary member of the London, England,
Women's PressClub and is listed in World's Who's Who of Authors and
World's Who's Who of Women.
Other books and dramas by this author are:
Born to Battle
Born to Battle (musical)
Combat! (musical)
Combat Songs (with Col. H. Chesham)
The Contender
Creators All
Horizons Unlimited (musical)
In Praise and Pralter (musical)
It Isn't So!
One Hand Upon Another
PeaceLike a River
Plus and Minus
Songs of the Crest (musical)
Tbday Is Yours
Tiophies
Tiouble Doesn't Happen Next Tuesday
The Undaunted (musical)
Walking with the Wind
Wind Chimes
Captain and Mrs. Philip Symmonds(nee Eliza Shirley)
磁
ぷ
磯盤
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Foreword
PreJace
Historiette
Chapter I
Historiette
Chapterll
Historiette
ChapterIII
Article
Chapter IV
Historiette
ChapterV
Sermon by Eliza
Chapter VI
VictorianEngland
......
The Hallelujahs
William and CatherineBooth
MarchingAlong.
Silk Weavingin Coventry
The SalvationArmy .
CaptainAllsop's Miracle Prayers
The Test
VictorianAmerica
TheNewCountry
How To Be a Hero
Victory!
....... ix
........ xi
I
3
19
...25
42
5l
75
79
........94
.......
105
ll7
l2l
Appendices
A. Historieue-Eliza Shirley
B. Historiette-Amos Shirley
C. Historiette-AnnieShirley
D.FamilyTree-AmosShirley
E. Recipe-Eliza's Cornish Pasties
F. Sermonby Eliza: How to ConquerDepression
G. Eliza'sSongs .
H. Amos'Song ..
L Evangeline Booth Letter
Bibliography
/39
. .. . . 145
..... 147
.... 152
/56
......
158
162
164
165
166
Index.
.......173
Vll
FOREWORD
At a time in the world when there is so much theological and
philosophicaldebateabout the leadershipof women in the community,and
particularly in the Church, it gives The SalvationArmy greatsatisfaction,
once again, to call attentionto the creativeand effective ministry of its
women officersand soldiers.From the very beginning,almost I l8 years
ago, The SalvationArmy has recognizedunder divine leadingthe equal
placewhich womenshouldhavein helpingto declarethe wholecounselof
God as revealedin the gospelof our Lord JesusChrist. Much has been
written heretofore highlighting buh the witness and work of women
through The SalvationArmy, which ministry has undoubtedlyhelped to
bring The Salvation Army to the highly favorable position it holds
throughoutthe world today.
While it may be trite to state, "the hand that rocks the cradle rules the
world," there is, nevertheless,a growing awarenessin the secularworld,
as well as the religiousworld, of the sensitive,qualified,skillful ministry
and work ol leading women of every cornrnunity.This certainly can be
recognizedby noting the increasingnumberof women who are occupying
places of high leadershipin various parts of the world, in politics, in
business,in literature,and in the work of the Church in general.
This book will presentillustrationsand anecdoteshighlightingparticular
women who havebeenmost gifted and effectiveas preachersof the divine
Word. No book could ever include referenceto every such woman, nor
adequatelychroniclethe quality of that ministry. However,I am personally
pleasedto endorsenot only the book itself, but the basic premise upon
which it is written, giving credit and gratitudeto God for all these fine
women in the Christian comrnunity who, over the years, have been so
dynamic and productivein their preachingministry.
May God use this book to His honor and His glory and to the further
cause of our Preaching Ladies.
CommissionerNorman S. Marshall
National Commander
The SalvationArmv in the United States
June, 1983
lX
PREFACE
Ever sinceI was told as a child that a l6-year-oldEnglishgirl startedThe
SalvationArmy in the United States,I've been vitally interestedin Eliza
Shirley who, in months, without any assistancefrom the homeland,
openedtwo thriving Philadelphiacorps, attendedby thousands,and laid a
strong foundation for work throughout the North American continent.
What's more, this happenedin a Victorian day when few women raised
their voicesabout anything,let alonepublic preachment;when the right of
free speechwas hotly contested;and when a personal, Christ-centered
experiencewas increasinglydiscountedand disdained.
Very little has been written about this tiny soldier of the Cross and her
dauntlessparents,partly becauseBooth'spioneerswere too busy marching
to record, and partly becausethey didn't consider themselvesnoteworthy-giving all glory to God. This is commendable,yet in the history of
great spirits we are encouragedto know God better and to attemptnoble,
sometimesdaring, exploitsfor Him.
For yearsI've beenaccumulatingmaterialregardingEliza, but it was not
until about five years ago, through coincidental direct contact with a
remarkably cooperative and knowledgeabledescendant,Mrs. Everald
(Russell)Crowell, a granddaughter,that PreachingLadies becamepossible. Other valuable assistancehas been given by the following: Corps
SecretaryJohnHowarth (R) and Mrs. GladysHowarth, Coventry,England;
Mrs. Captain A.J.D. Hawthoren, Bishop Auckland; Colonel Howard
Chesham (R), music researchand invaluable support; Colonel paul D.
Seiler (R), S.A. History; CommissionerJohnWaldron(R), S.A. history;
Mrs. Captain Laura (Homer) Fuqua, granddaughter;Brigadier Leonard
(R), and Major Robert Wilkins, grandsons;Mrs. Brigadier Janet (Earl)
Lord (R), who was stationedwith Mrs. Major Evangeline(Sandy)Nelson
(now deceased),a daughter.
To be able to perusearticles, sermons,lettersand songsof the Shirleys
has been extremely helpful; but also to find a treasury of fine clear
photographsof them and their descendantswas an indescribabledelight,
especiallywhen the only photo previously availableof Eliza is not a clear
likeness.
William Booth'sbiographer,St. JohnErvine, wrote, "The Shirleyshave
not hitherto receivedthe credit they are due. Father,mother,and daughter
were evidently remarkablepeople.It is indeeddifficult to say which of the
three Shirleyswas the most remarkable.Their devotion,good temperand
utter unselfishnesswere notableeven in the Army, which had thousandsof
soldiersto whom their words could be applied."
Preac'hingLadies is neither straight history, a novel nor historical recreation. I have called it a Restoration, a word that contemporarily
describesseriousinterestand executionrelatedto buildings, furnishings,
and costumes and customs of the past-all to be made whole as
authenticallyas possible. Every availablehistorical yard, foot, inch and
scraphas been included,using imaginativepiecing and patching,seaming
and feather-stitchingonly when necessaryfor clarity and completion.
Some incidents have been juxtapositioned, some minor charactersare
composites,but all make up the life of The SalvationArmy in 1878-'80'
I shall be overjoyedif, readingPreachingLadies, you search,laugh' cry
and sometimeseven wave a banner with Eliza, Amos and Annie.
To Coventry then, where they wait. '.
Xll
HISTORIETTE
Victorian England
In 1878, life for the masseswas neitherpeacefullyrural nor respectably
"monster" factorieshad sprungup with grinding,
urban. On the meadows,
cavernousjaws; and about them coweredthe drones'cottages,or in larger
cities, disreputabletenements.Life was almost unbearablein factories,
mines and up sooty chimneys. Somebody, commoners believed, had
moved to Elysium, but it wasn't they. In a tantrum of desperation,they
embracedgin, sex and criminality, spurninggentility, the brash new rich,
and God. who seemednot to care.
This was William Booth'sworld. The steel-petaledflower of industrialization perhapswas necessarilyspike-thornedbut the crop seemedtoo
profuse too soon. It had only been a few dozen years since England
completedland enclosurebeforewhich life had revolvedaroundthe smith,
the wheelwrightand the carpenter.A woman took careof her husband,her
children and her household,which included the making of butter, rugs,
bread, yarn and love. No one traveled much but royalty and the Royal
Navy, and Parliamentwas believedto be the Eternal'sadvisory council.
In 1819, a bill was passedto prevent any children under nine from
working. In 1830, Robert Peel, the Home Secretary,began inquiry into
social conditionsand did succeedin getting the death sentenceabolished
for 100 crimes. In 1833slaverywas abolished.
PopularQueen Victoria had married Albert the Good, but by 1853 the
popularity of both had diminishedin their efforts to preventthe Crimean
War,and after Albert's deathin 1861,Victoria was inconsolableand a semirecluse.
TraditionalChristianityhad largely settledinto form and, if not denying
the Spirit within, did nothingto vitalize it. The resentfulpopulaceattacked
it, using whatever came to hand as a weapon. Science, energizedby
Charles Darwin's Origin of the Species,sprang into action. The infant,
psychology, howled for recognition. A few mystic-minded individuals
stood watching in dismay then headed for the hermitage; and the
"Social conscience"had
sociologicalembryo had not yet been delivered.
never been heardof.
English politician Sir Robert Peel, and English philanthropist,Earl of
Shaftesbury,both membersof Parliament,made individual thrusts, hotly
contended,the Poor Laws their spindly offspring. But the populace in
Englandshriekedfor bread,both materialand spiritual.They reasonedthat
if God were no respecter of persons, and their world was I/is world,
somethingwas wrong.
2/PREACHING LADIES
I
Some said William Booth denicd the age in which he llved, when he
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Chapter I
THE
HALLELUyAHS
′
『■MEf
PLACE:
Coventry,England
SETTING: Shop Street,Midtown
"Preaching
ladies! Bound for hell. That's what they are!"
"Lizzie,
they'll end up in gaol, but you needn'tshovel'em off to t'devil
so soon, d'ya think?"
"They're
not Scripture,Beck! Papasaysthe rioting thesethreeweeks'is
becausethey're women. Just you read that poster!"
The girls studied the poster, one of many tacked to trees along
Coventry'sshop streets:
COME!HEAR!FREE!
P R E A C H I N G L A D I E S
FOR JESUS
Thcatre Roya1 8 p m Sundays
Salvation Factory
8 p m Wcckdays
"What's
more, Papasaystheselady Hallelujahshave rousedthe worst
rats and roaches from Coventry's cracks-hooligans, bummers,
drunks.. ."
"An'
a sprinklin' o' leather-gloveslummers."
"Don't
I fancy to have a good look at the lot."
"Lizzie,
not everybody'staintedby the Hallelujahs.Cousin Katie's got
rThe two women had
arrived in Coventry on Valentine's Day.
(skett'h at head of chapter by Julie Kennedv from original christian Mission bonnet in
Colonel Paul D. Seiler collection.)
4 / PREACHING LADIES
religion, and Pa and Ma saysshe'sthe happierfor't-bears her up under
Jimmy Docker's fists."
"Raise your right hand and swearGod's truth!"
"Hand on Book."
"Then they'll more than ever bear watching. How can Satancast out
Satan?I'm not permittedto go to their meetingsbut an afternoon'speek
can't harm. Let's wait till their march."
Eliza Shirley and Elizabeth Pearson, 15 and 14 respectively, and
daughtersof Coventry silk weavers,were unalike except in abounding
affectionfor eachother and sharedcuriosity.Eliza's mother,Annie, called
"between you there's a bit of everythem her patchwork lassesbecause
thing-embroidered with laughter." Eliza was dainty as gossamer,under
five feet in height, hands like dove'swings, facea cameo. Her questing
dark-browedblue eyeswere intent, and she'd a ruffle of chestnuthair-a
Frenchfashiondoll. Beck Pearsonwas all bones,buttonsand provocation,
her black hair braided and ribboned, her one startling feature a broadlipped mouth, continually springing open to disclose amazingly large
white teeth. Both had completed Coventry's free-schooleducation and
were forbidden the mills, being taught the homely arts by meticulous
Victorian mothers, though many of their peers were dues-payingguild
members.
"They're comin', Lizziel" Beck cuppedher ear. "They're comin'!"
At her shout, doors and windows were crankedopen, headsstuck out
"Where? Where?"
like Swiss clock people.
..HALLELUJAHSCOMIN' I''
Eliza, usually self-composed,felt excited at the prospect of seeingtruly
wicked women. People said they hawked religion like street vendors.
Satan'sdisciples with the power of purgatory in their flashing eyes no
doubt. She was determinednot to let their tainting gaze cross hers.
"Come on, Lizzie. We've got to close in before the others." Beck
snatchedEliza's hand and tore down the snowy street, an assortment of
Coventrycitizensclosebehind, shawls,stockingcapsand sweatersflying.
Some were sensible citizens merely bored with the humdrum everydayness, others the ragtag and bobtail, some wretchedly dreary in their
struggle against poverty. Others, known as bummers, out of weaknessor
lethargy or both, sucked on the conscidnce sores of the people; and the
remainder were called roughs, the incarnation of man's lowest natureruffians who physically resembled bounty animals. Born in slime they
grew up apparently insensible to kindneSs and reason. Thriving on
sensationand gore, they carnivorously clawed and chewed at society, never
satiated.
The Hallelujahs I 5
The Hallelujahsindeedmarched,in singlefile, straighttowardthe girls.
There were many more than the two women advertised.Thesewore black
capesoverblack princessfrocks,' Quakerlikeblack bonnetswithout brims,
edgedwith white frilling and tied with broad black streamersunder their
chins. A processionmarchedbehind them, clad in a ragbag of pattern,
color and patch, singing and shouting,many jingling tambourines.Three
playedfiddles and one squatgentlemansqueezeda concertina.Postersand
"PnepenEro
sandwichboardsbore startlingpronouncements:
Meer Tny
"Wsene
"HEr-rGopl"
wrLL you spEND ETERNTTy?"
on Hr,eve,N,
WutcH?" Clumping determinedlyin the snow,attemptingquick common
time, they sang a rousing song:
The missionis gath'ringfrom nearand from far,
The trumpetis soundingthe call for the war;
The conflictis.raging,'twill be fearfulandlong,
We'll gird on our armour,andbe marchingalong.
"it's
Katie! Katie, ooo-oo!" The girls
shoutedEliza, pointing,
whipped out lace-fringedpockethandkerchieves
and waved. "Katiel Ooo"
oo!
Katie was a cream-skinnedIrish girl with a long slenderneck, square
shouldersand a high-born walk. Even shabbyplaid muffler and great-coat
couldn't disguiseher beauty.A pearl in a tumble of pebbles.
"Come
along, darlin's! Hear the messageof our great grand King!"
Katie went singing down the street.
The girls ran beside the march which was now congealing into an
aggregationas ghoulishas everflocked for a hangingat Warwick gaol. At a
signal from one of the preachingladies,' a slight intensewoman with a
sunshineface who looked to be about thirty-five, the processionhalted,
formed a doublecircle, and the ageddrummerplacedhis instrumentin the
center.
"This
blessed'drumis our pulpit and penitent-form," said Sister Mrs.
"Friends, as many of you know, Sister
Caroline Reynolds.
Burrello and
"Beck!"
'Ground-length, fitted frocks without belts or waist demarcation.
3RobertSandall, The History ofThe Salvation Army, Yol. I (The Salvation Army, London,
1947) pp. 152-214, and Coventry, England Corps History. Carrie Reynolds: Before opening
Christian Mission work in Coventry, she had been a valuable member of the mission's
"Female
Band" and was one of the first women to command a station. Mrs. Reynolds'
husband had accompaniedher to Coventry but being chronically ill could not become part of
the warfare.
oSandall,The History ofThe Salvation Army, Vol. I (Ihe Salvation Army, London, 1947)p.
214, and Coventry, England, Corps History. Honor Burrell: a widow with two children, she
was Mrs. Reynolds' assistantin Coventry until Easter.As Honor Fells, she'd been converted
(Continued on p. 6.)
6 / PREACHING LADIES
myself have been sent by the ReverendWilliam Booth, superintendentof
The Christian Mission, to open fire for our blessedRedeemer."
At that, hoodlumsset up a howl of midnight wolves intent on a kill and
readiedthemselves,armedwith fish, vegetables,eggsand butcherbonesin
every stageof decomposition,but SisterReynoldslifted her armsto heaven
"Stay! The King's businessmust be spoken
and sternly commanded,
clearly, me lads. After prayer we'll call on Mistress Katie Docker for a
word o' testimony.She's a preciousbrand plucked from the bumin' who
radiatesthe love o' Jesus."
"Cheers for Katie Docker!" bawled a hooligan and up shot a string of
"Go
home, Katie
Hipl Hipl Hoorahslthough one bawdy voice screeched,
Docker! Go home!" The two women and about 50 recruits knelt in the
snow while SisterReynoldsPraYed.
"God of creation,convict Coventry!Bring this Babylon of 60,000 souls
to desolationthen raise it up in Jesusto such a revival as convertsevery
waywardTom, Dick and Harry within sight an' sound.Hinder an' hamper
'em agonizeuntil they throw aside every weight that so easily
an' make
'em andjump into the fountaino' Your love. Then kiss 'em and hug
besets
'em after their strayin' mates.Oh, sweepthe city streetswith
'em
and send
us, Your consecratedbrooms, and send revival! Send us resultsthat from
this very spot the world will be set afire wi' Your love. In the precious
, men!"
n a m eo ' J e s u s a
Eliza was still ponderingthe unusualprayerwhen Katie Docker stood
forward, a worn Bible in her mittened hands. She had not so much as
openedit when two ruffians, black woolen caps close about their pocked
noses,began to jostle her.
"Katie, stan' back! Jimmy Docker vows e'll smash yer 'ead in if ye
speakou' once more! We're sent t' persuadeye."
It was pure honey, the smile Katie gave them before she opened her
"The wagesof sin is deathbut the gift o' God
Bible. Calmly sheproceeded:
is eternal life through JesusChrist s47-"
Like fury afrows, the roughsspedtoward the marketplacewhere Jimmy
Docker loitered, setting himself forth as a law-abiding greengrocerbut
known for a good half of his thirty odd yearsas the most notoriousvillain
in many a county.The whole of Coventrywonderedat the noveltythat such
as he could win a jewel like Katie, though he was molassesand treacle
when he chose to be. Now, before Katie had done, a yowl went up that
could be heard halfway to the tower of London.
of Booth's first tent meetings on Mile End Waste in 1865. During the interim
*h*-lili-on"
she and her husbandhad proved their loyalty, spirituality and industry and had directedthe
"Food for the Millions" cheap food program.
innovative
The Hallelujahs l7
"
"
Ye-ow! Ye-owl A string of oaths,enoughto make a walking stick curl
piercedthe air as Jimmy camewhirling throughthe snow,swingingan axe
handle,a dozenmischiefmakers
poundingbehindhim. "Ye-ow! Ye-ow!"
They rushedthe Hallelujahs,slammedthe preachingwomen into the snow,
scattered the screaming crowd like feathers and, stomping, hissing,
yapping,confrontedKatie, who still readher Scriptures.Clogs spread,axe
handlehigh, Jimmy Docker bellowed, "Katharine, wife o' JamesDocker,
step for'd an' follow thy legal masteran' mate!"
Thcre was a pause.
"Come
not, an' we'll bashthe lotl"
Bestowingon him one pleadinglook, Katie recommenced:"The people
that walked in darknesshave seena great light: they that dwell in the land
of the shadowof death, upon them hath the light. . ."
Eliza and Beck gasped.The crowd stood like snowy gravemonuments.
"Katie
Docker come willin'!" screamedJimmy, "er I'll-I'll-"
He lunged.
Eliza leapedin front of Katie and, short as she was, caughthis knees,
throwing him off balance.Beck took up a position behind her. On rising,
Docker brushedthem away like fluffs of snow,and with his mateshowling
about him, leaped again, Katie still reading. Eliza made another grab,
haltinghim.
"Sir,"
her own stentorianvoice startled her. Stiffening on tiptoe to
almostfive feet sheshouted,"To reachKatie, you must first passme. Bash
away!"
Docker was so surprised at the miniature rebellion he stepped back,
heaving.
The preachingladies squeezedin front of Eliza.
"I'm
in command, Mr. Docker," stated Sister Reynolds. "Bash me
before you touch a hair of Katie's head."
"And
me. Bash me!" daredSisterBurrell, a somewhatportly duplicate
of Sister Reynolds,with much bolder features.
Jimmy Docker and his matesbashedaway.The Hallelujahs,dozensof
them, piled up in the snow, bloodied and broken as rank on rank they
confronted the Docker brigade, refusing either to take the offensive or
defend themselves.
Eliza and Beck remainedin the centerof the melee,jiggled andjostled,
but not seriouslyhurt. Some recruitsand bystanderswere stomped,some
severelybeaten.Cloaks and coats,shawls,bonnets,hatsand blood polkadotted the snow. Amid screamsand groanssome citizensescapedto the
constables and as Black Maria came rolling to the rescue and the
antagonistswere recognized,messengerswere dispatchedto the station-
鞠 鍔
8 / PREACHING LADIES
house for every availablereinforcement.That afternoon,March 8, 1878,
seventeenconstableswereenlistedto subdueone JamesDocker,with a law
enforcementofficer having a good part of his right ear bitten off for his
devotion to duty. Hate and gore were hardly more in evidence in the
Crimea. several veteransobservedthat disastrousaftemoon, recounting
that the Docker onslaughtwas uncontestedas the Hallelujahs preached
passivenonviolent resistanceto evil.5
As they brushed off mud and snow, and Eliza wiped blood from a cut
over her right eye, the girls vowedneverto breathea word of their heroism
for fear they'd be prohibited from ever attendinga Hallelujah meeting.
"The Hallelujahs almost got Katie killedl" Eliza held a pockethandkerchiefto her swelling eye.
"Then she'd die happierthan ever she'sbeen since she married Jimmy
"Lizzie,I'm not easyon the preachin'ladies,but it's
Docker," saidBeck.
'em. Lizzie, why'd you stan'
a pity they're not men so we could enjoy
forth?"
"I don't know. Respectingcouragethat much I expect.Beck, I've gor to
find their secret.How could they want to be batteredabout like this? How
can they sing and march in the streetswhen they know they'll stir up
trouble?Yet there'ssomethinggrandaboutthem. They act like I told you I
feel sometimes-you know, like somethingwonderful is about to happen
and I'm part of it-like I'm destined."
"Destined? By yourself? I mean just you? That couldn't be-unless
you'rea Calvinist.ThenGod is choosier-but not that much.I'm glad I'm
Methodist. Primitiveutoo."
Nearing home. Eliza suddenlypressedBeck's mittened fingers.
"Cross your heartyou won't tell a soul?"
"Under Heaven."
"I'm not convincedaboutreligion, Beck. TodayI aboutbelievenothing.
All those picky-wicky differences-all those interpretationsof Scripture.
Even the Bible confusesme. I don't like the begetsand I don't like having
four Gospels,and I don't like the idea of having to be saved,and I don't
understandhow one personcan savea whole world. My brain goesround
and round. I don't approveof my brain, and I know that'sblasphemoustoo.
God made me and it and I should be grateful, but it gets me into squeezy
placesand sometimesin the dumps. Some of my thoughtsabout religion
5Coventry,England, Corps History inThe Christian Mission Magazine; "So notoriousa
sinner was Jimmy Docker...that the police talked of subscribingto the Mission if ever he
were converted."
6Original organization of Methodism; in the l80os most closely aligned to theology and
practices of John Wesley, founder of Methodism.
The Hallelujahs / 9
are shocking-even to me. I expectI'm not a real Christianat all-though
not an out-and-outatheist.At best, an inbetweener.Becauseof Papaand
Mama, I'm not absolutely against, but I'm certainly not altogetherfor.
What's more, evervthing'sso duLl in chapel. I like a bit of action, and I
don't seewhy God has to haveall the rest of His creationso alive and His
very own housedead. Papaisn't dull, but I don't hear many Papasabout.
"Lizziel
You better change your tune or you'll go to hell with the
Hallelujahs
l"
"I
know. And I don't even feel that matters.I guess I'm not a very
feeling person about anything-except fun. When I was 18 months old,
Papaand Mama laid me on the altar but nothing set. I can't believebabies
get savedthat way either,sprinkling them with water and sticking them all
wet and wailing on forms. Nothing happenedwhen I was 12 and knelt by
myself either. I just kept on being me, and I decidedeither there wasn't
anything to salvationor it was too much work."
"Your Pa's
a Sundaypreacher.'Don' 'is sermonsmake ye wiggle?"
"Not
often. I know all his texts and most of his sermons.They just roll
right off me. I'm not a Darwinist, a Marxist, or an atheist.Not a Church o'
Englandernor a Catholic. I expectI'm just a nothing."
Beck burst out crying.
"Oh, Lizzie,
don't! Pray God you'll get convicted!"
"l
don't wctntto get convicted. I want to be free! Especiallyof me."
Eliza took Beck's shoulders."Keep all this under your bonnet?"
"Honor
under Heaven." They claspedhandsand parted.
Eliza composedherself with a few well-chosenBible versesborrowed
from her father'sSundaysermonsand enteredthe Shirley cottage.
"Lizziet"
Annie, Eliza's mother, rushed to the door. "Whatever has
happened?Did you have a tumble?Here, let me have a look at you. Oh,
poor little Ltzziet"
Eliza suddenlyfelt sly. "Mama, I didhave a wretchedtumble. Beck and
I together,and we're both quite rumpled, but most of the harm is to my
clothes. I've really only a scratchover my eye."
"Come,
we'll bind you up," said Annie, "then we'll tuck you in bed
with a nice hot brick at your feet. A drop of tea and a pieceof fresh bread?
I'll put the scrubbingbrush to your coat before Papacomes home."
Annie Shirley was a delicatelypatternedwoman with a strong, disceming spirit. Eliza resembledher in many ways, though she was much more
introspectiveand timid like her fatherAmos. A hustlerand bustler,Annie
was known as a woman who could turn a few witheringberriesinto a jar of
'Sunday preacher:
lay minister of the Primitive Methodist denomination.
IO / PREACHING LADIES
good jam, and fullef the grayestlinen with a few scrapsof naphtha soap
and strongsunshine.Practicaland persistent,she had a winning way with
her world. It submittedto her cheerful, indomitablenature.No mountains
for Annie, only fair-to-middling knolls planted by divinity for human
exercise.While attendingto Eliza, she describedplans for the evening.
"Papa
and I decidedto attendthe Hallelujahs'meeting tonight."
"May I come? Please?"
"Not
this time, darlin'. They must be weighed. The gossip of their
exploits must be explained."
"I
think they're harmless,Mama. It's those ruffianly-"
"Lizzie, you haven't been there?"
"We had a glance on the streetcorner.Please?"
"No. And I'm upset you listened. They may be wonder-workersfor the
Lord, or charlatans.Remember,they're totally unscriptural. God doesnot
call women to preach."
Eliza could think of no suitable words to enhance her plea, so she
submitted to the kitchen couch and Annie's warm concern. When her father
came home, she attemptedto charm him into permission but to no avail.
Amos Shirley, though lacking the inventivenessand nervous energy of his
wife, was a man to be reckoned with. Skilled in weaving at an early age,
he'd attaineddignity, responsibility and now authority in the silk weavers'
guild and was known miles around for his endeavorsas a lay preacher.His
views were fundamental; he was not boisterous, seldom raising his voice
aboveconversationallevel and never in the remembranceof his family had
he been either explosive or virulent. He was of medium height and weight,
balding, forthright in expression, and his power of persuasionseemedto
come from some secret corner of his person. He knew how to be firm.
"No,
Lizzie, love. We'll see after tonight. Anyhow, you shouldn't go
out in the cold with your bumps and bruises."
Entreatedto blow out the lamp early and get a good sleep, Eliza had no
intention of sleeping and very soon got out her slate board, hoping to
remember the words of the Hallelujahs' marching song. She was waiting
with feigned unconcernwhen her parentsreturned very late in the evening.
"Darlin'!" said Annie, "you awakestill? We'll have a cup o' tea and a
"The
biscuit and tell you all about the meetin'." Her voice crescendoed.
Hallelujahs are quite remarkable."
Eliza's father hugged her.
"Papa,
tell me their secret! Is it true that 300 boozers march with them?
8Fulleri to bleach.
TheHallelujahs lll
That thousands go to their meetings? They roll on the floor and shout
during service?"
Amos held up his handsin mock dismay.
"Lizzie, you
make the Hallelujahssoundlike a circusl Which, indeed,
they are not. The preaching women are quite ladies. They seem to have
awakenedthe whole city, but they've no evil magic."
"Then
why are they put upon so?"
"Love, let Papahave
his tea," said Annie, laying a cloth and buttering
scones."Poor souls.I heardfrom a convertthey wanderedfor hours when
they first arrived seekinglodgings. First they tried The Pilgrim's Rest not
knowing it to be a public house.At length a woman took them in but the
room they slept in had broken windows and they've had catarrh ever since.
They've bouncedabout for meetin's;shabbymissionhall, a raggedschool
on the town's edge. Now they've the old TheatreRoyal off Smithford Street
for Sundays,though the roughs won't let them alone and the authorities
only cheer. Weekdaysthey use an old factory in Much Park Street, once a
dancing saloon. Holds 500 people. In just the right position, Sister
Reynolds says, to be filled soon with pardoned sinners singing
hallelujahs."
Amos looked at Eliza gravely.
"These
women have something, Lizzie. Tonight the place was packed.
Great many standing. Fourteenconverts spoke. I've never been in a more
powerful meeting in my life."
"Worshipers seemed to fairly
dance for joy," said Annie. "And the
place was so crowded collection couldn't be taken up properly and fishers
couldn't deal with the people. Sister Reynoldssaid she now has 60 recruits
and is not afraid of what the roughs might try."
"But all that shoutingand jumping
and clapping?"
Amos smiled.
"We
didn't seeanything outlandish.And, Pet, a fire's warmth can't be
too long withstood if a body's chilly enough."
"I
know how you feel, Love," said Annie. "I most certainly don't
understand. They say ReverendBooth's wife is either a suffragette or an
anti-whiskey woman, greatly influenced by female uprisings in the United
States.She speaksin public and won't be put down. Has a great following
in London's West End and some say the Reverend Booth lives on her
petticoats.Yet, Darlin', we had a blessedtime."
"Lizzie,"
said Amos, how would you like to visit next Sundayafternoon
for the free-and-easv?"'
elnformal service characterized
by much singing and testimonies
12 / PREACHING LADIES
Eliza felt frightened.
"Have you forgotten, Papa?They are women preachers."
"Darlin'
child, 14 years ago, when you were a baby and we lived in
Derby, Papa and I were backsliderswhen we were convertedunder the
preachingof a most peculiar gentlemancalled Fiddler Josh, a converted
jailbird. We laid you on the altar and theregaveGod all we had and were.
Not in all theseyearshavewe matchedthat night until now. I was born in
the fire and dare not live in the smoke any longer.""'
"But what about lady preachers'?"
"Lizzie," said Amos, "when you find the fire and you're freezingyou
can't fret about who laid the logs. I confessto seriousquestionsabout
women preachersand also the Hallelujahs'unorthodoxmethods,but God
will answerthesequestions.We're not joining...only supporting'WhateverThe ChristianMission is, thesepreachingladiesare of God."
Eliza was not convinced. She'd only wantedto watch them, see what
magnetizedthe people. However, she now scurried to tell Beck, whose
parents readily agreed to the visit so long as Pearson'smill foreman,
Amos, gavepermissionto Eliza.
Thus it was that on the following Sunday afternoon, much effort and
time having beengiven to suitableattire,includingbestbonnets'cloaks,
gloves and boots, Eliza and Beck hastenedto join the crowd of almost
1,000 that milled about the entranceof the TheatreRoyal waiting for the
doors to be opened.The Hallelujahswere at the marketplaceholding an
open-airservice,and as the girls waitedthey listened.
"They do magic or they woun't hol' folkl"
"They read the Book diffrunt. Make't come alive."
"Naw. It make them come alive!"
"The leadershe'sa husban'that'ssick so shecap'nsthe ship. Mr. Booth
'er
put
in charge."
"Trouble in the Mission lately I hear. Evangelistsrun out on 'em in
Derby and Leicester.Somedidn' pay bills.""
"Other's a widder wi' two children. She an' 'er late run a cheap food
shop in eastend London all fer the Mission."''
'uTheparentsofthe Shirleyswere known fortheirspirituality. JohnAllen, Eliza's maternal
grandfather,was "such a lover of souls that an acquaintanceonce remarked he would walk a
mile out of his way ratherthan meet JohnAllen, who neverfailed to plead fbr his salvation"
(American War Cn' 9l 12125).Justbefbreher deathAmos' motherplacedher handson Eliza's
"The Lord make the child a preacherof the gospel."
head and said,
rlsandall, Vol. I p. 215: "Nou let everybody understandthis: everything is to be paid
beforesalary,putting by weekly entlughto meet all rent and otherculrent expenses.. . Whom
G o d s e n d si n t o H i s w o r k . G o d w i l l t a k ec a r eo f . . . " ( W i l l i a m B o o t h , 1 8 7 8 ) .
"Sandall, Vol. I p. 214: " ...There is Sister Reynoldsand her husbandwho lived on 2l
-qt|l-,,lt,
t t . ,L r l . $ {
The Hallelujahs I 13
"Don't
believethat."
"Bet
they made a pretty penny."
"The
Hallelujahsturn everythin' in fer the cause.Live hand-to-mouth.
Twentyshillin'sa week, Ma says.She arksed'em."
"Don'
say."
"Keepsye
closer'tblessin'.Simplelivin', clear'ead.More fer the poor."
"Aye,
look! Doors openin'."
Eliza and Beck floated forward in the surge and were almost past the
doorkeeperwhen there was a hard hand on Eliza's shoulder.
"No, you
don't! Frizz an' ruffle an' doodashaint f'erthis meetin'.This
m e e t i n ' sf ' e rl a d i e sa n ' g e n t s .N o t y e r k i n ' . O u t w i ' y e ! "
Before they could protest, the crowd had pushedpast and they stood
disconsolatenear the roadwaywhere carriageswere pulling up so rapidly
that horses were rearing and snorting in the cold, unnerved by the
commotion.
"Imagine
that!" Beck was furious. "I vow! Can you tell a man's heart
by the buttonson his vest'lLizzie, I could pop his off."
Eliza paused,studiedtheir Sundayfinery. Then sheturnedto the crowd.
Many were in tatters and there were noisy, woolly hooligans clustered
about, but there was also a good proportion of Coventry'selite.
"Beck,
I've an idea. Pull yourself tight and tall as possible.If our
parentswere here, we'd poseno problem to the doorkeep.All we needto
do is-quick." Handslaced,they slippedin behinda well-to-docouple.
The gentleman'sgreatcoatwas bulky, his wife's fox furs trailing. Heads
down, barely touching the foxtail fringe, the girls whispered by the
doorkeeperand ran to find a place on an empty form.'.
"How
beautifulthis placeis!" saidEliza. "A little shabbyand sad,but
think what it must have looked like."
The TheatreRoyal was very old but still bore signs of early Victorian
elegance,painted in faded blues, with an abundanceof chipped rococco
decoration,the plush seatslong gone and replacednow by stiff wooden
benches.
"Can't
believe it," Beck whisperedas they discoveredaisle after aisle
crowded,peoplepackedlike toothpicks.They scamperedup the broad old
staircaseto the highestbalconyand seatedthemselvesnearthe rear,hereto
espy a conclaveof young roughs.The noisy stratagemwas haltedwith the
girls' arrival.
"Welcome,
fair damsels!"
shillings a week until I jacketed their treasurer. They had scarcely any fumiture. But she
w o u l d n o t g o i n t o d e b tt o b u y a n y . . . " ( W i l l i a m B o o t h , 1 8 7 8 ) .
IrRough wooden benches.
':+lt-.,,.-
-J
14 / PREACHING LADIES
"Join us,
Queensof the May!" Severaldozenstood,bowing to the floor,
"May we have the pleasure?"
swinging their flat, filthy caps.
There were hoots and howls of laughter,whistles, snortsand sniggers,
jiggling of burly bodies and jousting of long arms'
"We
can't stay here," whisperedBeck.
"Never be allowed back."
"Shouldn't heara thing."
"There must be some place, Beck. I've this feeling so strong'"
"What feeling?"
"Like somethingsplendidis about to happenand I'm part of it."
"It'll have to rattle like thunderto be heard in this commotion."
"Beckl" Eliza pointed down to the ground floor, in front of the stage.
"Look! Exactly what we're after-empty forms.'oCome on!"
They raced downstairs. The forms were stationedabout five feet in front
of the stage. Probably too close for most folk, Eliza thought. They sat
down and had only taken off glovesand retied bonnetswhen marchingup
the centeraislein singlefile camethe Hallelujahs,led by the two preaching
ladies, singing and shouting, a circus drum beating. There were concertinas, tambourines,posterson poles, and red jerseys. All were either
clapping or playing or waving as they proceeded.Red-cheekedand rednosed from the cold, they clatteredto the stage,divestingthemselvesof
cloaks, mittens and mufflers and stood singing and clapping with the
delighted audience.
What was their secret? Without exception they were smiling. All
snriling. Somelooked coarseand naturallyplayful but othersdid not, were
in fact totally circumspect,preciselyclad. Yet all exudedjoy. They acted
like people possessed.Maybe the devil had. . .
"Jimmy Docker!" Beck stoodup. Eliza stoodup. It wcs Jimmy Docker,
marchingup the aisle in a fresh black suit with a red jersey rolled high at
the neck, shined shoesand canying a poled placard which proclaimed:
"cLopv!"'s
roThegirls did not understandthat thesebencheswere placed there to b€ used by kneeling
seekers during the prayer meeting.
r5CoventryCorps History, The Christian Mission Magazina, September, 1878 "(Ftnsr
Wen CoNcness) The sceneas this brotherrose (Brother Docker.Coventry)-so notoriousa
sinnerbeforehis conversion-surpassedall description.Almost the whole audiencearoseand
'l
praisedGod aloud. He spoke as follows: havebeen in prison many a time, and all through
drink. but I hate it now as much as I used to love it. Many a pound I've spenton it but no
more. I blessthe day the Mission came into Coventry.But when I went into the old TheatreI
had no idea of being converted.I had just had me beer,but it was a wet night and I got in a
corner neat the door. I never thought my heart was going to be brought down, but it was and I
found Christ, although not the first time. I went again and again. I'm a greengrocerby trade
The Hallelujahs I 15
Eliza began to tremble.
"Jimmy
Docker!" called Beck. "Jimmy Docker, are you, you?" He
waved his poster at them, pointing to the sign, and shouted,"Glory!"
Katie followed Jimmy, jingled her tambourineas they sang with the
other converts, "And when the banle's over we shall wear a crown, we
s h a l l .. . "
"Miracle
of miracles!" Beck gasped.
Eliza wasn't sure. Jimmy Docker couldn't be serious.Soon he'd bang
somebodyover the head with his posterand stir up a riot.
Sister Reynoldsstood forward on the stage.
"Beloved
friends, we welcome you to God's house in the name of
Jesus!" There was an uproarof amensand hallelujahsbehind her. "We've
just had a blessedopen-air.Five more souls in the fountain. The Spirit of
God directedour march and He has come to direct our efforts this night."
Another volley of amens.Then loud clappingas a song was lined out word
for word for those who had no books or could not read:
Soundthe battlecry! Seethe foe is nigh,
Raisethe standardhigh for the Lord;
Gird yourarmouron, standfirm everyone;
Restyour causeuponHis holy Word.
CHORUS:
Rouse,then,soldiers!Rallyroundthe banner,
Ready,steady,passthe word along,
Onward,forward,shoutaloudHosannah!
Christ is Captainof the mightythrong.
Jacksonthe Bear,'ua burly crevice-facedconvert, asked to lead the
congregationto the throne of grace, prayed, "God, Ye know us bilgin'
varmin's. We don' desarveY' wonder grace but we got't! Thank Jesusl
Murder the waywar'.Slay 'em in Jesus!Grab somestinkin',sinkin' sinner
who can't fin' the lifeline an' save 'im Lord. sav 'im! Then sen' 'im
seekin' ithersroun' the worl'. Amen."
There were testimonies,some bombastic;more singing, hisses from
hecklersin the balcony, a collection and an interruptionby a gentleman
who wished to take the stage with a pronouncementagainst women
like our brother Warren. I saw a notice up in his window: No BUslNEssDoNE HEREoN
suNDAysr.i pu'runr.'l'hinks I, I can eam as much monev as him and can do without Sundav
work as well as he can."
r6Catherine
Booth, when visiting Coventry soon after,said, "My husbandsaysthe people
do not come so much to hear the preacheras to look at the Bills and Dicks, the prizefighlers
and bird fancierswho havegot converted,and that they come still more to hear them speak."
16 / PREACHING LADIES
preachers.''Sister Reynoldsallowed him to make an animateddeclama"Time will tell, dear friends. In Christ there is
tion, answeringonly with,
no Greek nor Jew, neithermale nor female.We may not use our Saviour's
precioustime for further discussion,but welcomeour brother'scomments
nonetheless."She concludedwith so graceful a love message,that Eliza
"God made you. He
wept. The sum and substanceof the messagewas
loves you. And if you give your entire life to Him through Jesus'saving
power, He will receive it, cleanseit and give it back to you with divine
purposeand His own lovely Spirit."
Eliza couldn't sort out her feelings;the sermon...the sight of Jimmy
and Katie Docker. . . the believers'joy. They talked about life as if it went
well even when it didn't, as if Jesuswere a real human friend alwayswith
them-cooperating, planning, listening-always after their best. Wasthat
what it was all about-being born of the Spirit? Being free becauseyou
gave yourself to God?
"Jesusit is, my dearones' who makes
SisterReynoldswas concluding:
us come alive. Jesus is the Divine Presence,not a name only but a
Presence-a nature-the core of creation-that part of God that put on our
clothesand walked amongstus. He and the Fatherare one, and when we
becomepart of Him we becomepart of the whole of creation."
One with creation?Imagine that! Eliza beganto cry. No past to worry
about, no future to frighten-just the ever present. And this salvation
didn't depend on anything you did or didn't do, now or at any timesimply on your acceptanceof God personally.
Sister Reynoldsinvited all unsavedpersonsto come forward.
"It is a witnessof repentance,of decisionfor God."
Publicly kneel? Others did. Another song, another prayer and the
meeting was over.
"Lizzie, why didn't you go forward?You wantedto." Eliza shook her
head,and they continuedhome silently.Why hadn't shegone?Why should
she have?Wasn't it a matter betweenher and God? Why should everybody
in the world know her business?Or was this pride?Dishonesty?Fear?She
beganto cry again. At the Shirley gate Beck demandedhet gaze.
"Lizzie Shirley, you're convicted.You'll see." She spedaway
Eliza stood staring after her for some moments before she had the
r"'I'm a wonder in all Coventry.. ." Mrs. Reynolds took for her text, "What think ye of
Christ?" I thought, I don't want none o' that. The forms in the Factory at that time were badly
made and often used to break down during the service. And either me or somebody in me was
too heavy for the form that night and down it went. I didn't like to get up so crouched against
the wall and got meself all whitewashed over . ...Then Mrs. Reynolds came to me . ' . Thank
God!" (Brother Warren, attending the first War Congress, 1878).
The Hallelujahs I 17
courageto go inside. Sheblinked, wiped her eyes,recitedScriptureverses,
kicked the tree by the gate, and worked the latch severaltimes. of course,
reasonruled her emotions. It always had. She could not be whimpering
about. Oh? Though she had prided herself with composurefor anything,
anybodythat came,this afternoonshe'd not only not controlledherselfbut
had felt strongemotion. What'smore, Beck, who was excitableand always
ready for a greatlaugh or equally sorrowfulcry, had tonight remainedquite
unmoved.How could that be?What sort of folk were theHallelujahs?And
what sort of god was God to make her f'eelthis terrible?
She openedthe door, attemptingto greet her parentscalmly.
"Darlin',
how did you like them?" said Annie.
"How
did they strike you?" said Amos.
Eliza looked at her mother,burstingwith blessing,anticipation.Then at
her father,who seemed,with his gentle probing glance, to know exactly
what had happened.She was indeed her parents'child. She felt as if she
knew both of them so well at this moment. How, O dear God, how can it
possibly work for me? She burst into uncontrollablesobs.
"I
am undone! God has completely undone me at the Hallelujahs! I
don't know quite what I believe-but I know I can no longer unbelieve."
She rushed to her father's big armchair and dissolvedat his knee. Her
mother knelt besideher.
"Come
now, darlin'. All you need do is begin at the beginnll'_
believin' in Jesus,givin' yourselfto Him and then trustingfor all the rest,"
said Annie. "God knows exactly what He is about, and never a tear does
He waste."
Eliza only cried the harder.
"It
isn't that," she sobbed."Oh, Mama, it isn't thattlcan believeall
aboutGod. It's I who's the troublemaker.you haveno ideahow willful and
wicked I am inside."
"Perhaps
we do," said Amos. "Perhapswe do, Lizzie, sweet.', Both
parentspattedher. "Bear in mind, you've not had time nor circumstance
nor eveninclinationfor the deep-dyedsinsof commission,so your struggle
is more refined. God has given you a clear mind and a hardy spirit, and
perhapsyou're meeting now what others are besetby many years hence_
not only savingbut cleansing,and the consecrationof your will to God."
Eliza went right on sobbing.
"I
think if ever I accept what the Hallelujahs call faith, I'm such a
stubbom one that nothing in this world could stop me-not illness, nor
friends, nor cogitations-once I made up my mind. Is that christian faith?
"Should
I allow Him in, I shouldcry Him from the housetops,and that
would be a consuming life task," said Eliza. She looked up. ..Why, I
18 / PREACHING LADIES
should proclaim liberty to all the captivesin the world becausefreedom
would be so lively in me. It would just go shootingout without my even
knowing. But it would be quite a trade, wouldn't it? God's will for my
own."
"Yes, Love, and you would havethe Book to test your inner guidance'"
Annie placedthe family Bible on Amos' lap. Eliza looked at it, jumped up
lightly, kissedher parentsand spreadingher feet slightly, viewed them like
a congregation.
..It is all very well to snivel and slobber,but if I am to make a covenant
with God, reasonmust prevail. Not in full knowledgebut in determination
madestrongby convictionand Scripture,l,Eliza Shirley,do herebyaffirm
that I am a chosenchild of God through Jesuschrist His Son, having
offered Him my life, including my will."
It was an uncommon act yet not unlike Eliza's usual behavior. The
was in her earlieremotionalresponse.Though often tendershe
strangeness
was nevertormented.And she'd had an emotionalpummelingthis day' In
calmer moments over tea, the three talked of events that had led up to
Eliza's decision.They discussedthe Hallelujahs'coming to Coventry,the
ridicule, persecutionand buffoonery; their unorthodoxy,sensationalism;
the postureof the press,the church, the mayor and the ruffians' But more
than anythingelse, they ponderedthe ministry of two preachingladies. In
His good time, they concluded, God would make His wishes known;
n1"u*uhil", they would worship as often as possiblewith the Hallelujahs'
though not defectingfrom their own church.
Head aching and nose red, Eliza went to bed, awareof meaningsshe
by
couldn't fathom,depthsshecouldn't plumb, sureonly of her acceptance
thought,
she
her?
certainly,
with
God. what did theHallelujahshaveto do
as she slipped into slumber,I could never be one of them' Too noisy, illrrlunn"."d, unorthodox. And I for one could never desecratewomanhood
by ordering either ladies or gentlemenabout or preachingfrom a pulpit'
HISTORIETTE
l
urュ
riarll and Catherine B00th
The man and wOmanOthcrs!"wer
whOse mOtt
:if縮
胎品逮艦 縦機骨
播せ
!描
紘
甜
!鮮&￨を
督
iど
盟猛
航
鯖濫撚ぷ
紺
生
艦
鮭冊 l 岳
盤堤
辞鮎
ざ
&貿
塩] 3 1鮒
sh盟
品
絆 驚
‖
F轍協盤
惜品縄糖鉢
滞品!岳
船結 品鶴把
!る
terine oftcn necded seclus10n and bed
resti bOth suffcrcd tcmptatiOn to givc in tO cxcruciating depressiOn Their
Hliracle was that thcy believcd in a 10ving,pcrsOnal God、
vhO cOuld call and
dttα 郎 研 sh宙 αtts航
H並
航 並d h heB∞
khり
considercd tO bc His inspired wOrd_焔
督i品』
ヽ
Villlam B00th was bOm April lo, 1829, in Nottingham, England, tO
Samuel and Mary MOss B00th,2 and, Cven as a bOy, 、
vas a curious
combination Of wOrker and dreamett Hc was bOm intO a wel卜
tO_dO hOme
(Episcopalian)and attendcd the best sch001s in tO、
vni hO、
veveL his fathe島
an afflucnt nall―
maker whO bullt artisans'hOuscs、
vhen industry moved into
Nottingham, suffercd grave nnancia1 10sses, bccanc ill and dicd 、
vhen
William was 12.
By thc tinle Of willlam's birth,rnultitudes Of villagers had cro、
vded into
the big citics and smaller industrial tO、
vns 、
vhcrc the poor kne、v acute
suffering. In order tO make a living atter his fathcr's death, william's
ぴN血
qu舶
ngham
群猛ぎ
l盤縦鮮p h heptt
将3rtty船
vividly: “
when a mere child, the
degradatiOn and helplcss lnisery ofthe p00r stockingers of my nativc tO、
vn,
wandcring gaunt and hungerstricken through the streets,droning Out their
melanch01y ditties...had a pO、verful inducncc On my 、
vh01e life...the
sight(was terrible)of children,blue with cOld,crying in the strcets for
bread.'
繭騰ぺ辮 雛灘犠
attracted the ragtag young、
vhOm he s
They 、vere nOt 、
velcomed. At 17, a recognized leadeL he 、
vas dceply
鮒盟t岳
錯
鑑結!轡
ま
簿品辮 鴫
輪
罫
覇躍:縛統薔
2Mary MOss was Samuel's secOnd wife and is belicvcd tO have been Jewish
19
20 / PREACHING LADIES
impressedby the flaming American evangelist,JamesCaughey,struck by
Caughey'srealism, conversationalstyle and open-airpreaching.caughey,
dark and theatrical,taught william many of the methodshe was later to
"Un-English!" "Flashy!" and "American!" probably
use.Britishcriesof
were well founded. From the first, Booth's ministry was American in
enthusiasmand color.
In 1849, William left for London, hoping to preach, but was soon
homeless,jobless and penniless.Finding a job with a walworth pawnbroker, he immediately searchedfor opportunities to preach, and at 24
enreredthe ministry of the Methodist New Connection,the plight of the
poor heavily on his heart.Although he was not a revolutionist,desiringand
iespectingauthority,he was compelledto reach the masses,which were
untouchedby churchor philanthropicagencies.
During Easterof 1849,he met catherineMumford, the culturedkeenly
intellectual girl he was to marry, when both were guests at the home of a
mutual friend, Edward H. Rabbits.3
catherine was born in London a few months before william, January17,
1g29, into a cultured, affluent family. when she met william she was
living in the picturesquesuburb of Brixton. Slight and graceful' she was
highly sensitiveand frail but her spirit was incredibly strong' She testified
that she,d always yearnedafter God. Despiteher frailty, she'd found time
for writing even as a child, and once had sent an article to a magazine
under the name of an adult friend for fear it wouldn't havea fair readingif
the editor knew she was a very young female.
They were married on June 16, 1855, after william had repeatedly
..I offer now a step in the dark." The Booth marriage was
warned her,
idyllic, though seeminglybesetby every obstaclethat public careersadmit,
besidesthe rearing of eight children and the incorporation of both writing
and speaking careersfor Catherine.
In March of 1861,when william was 32, and earnestlyseekinga wider
ministry, he appealedto the annual Methodist Conferencefor reappointment to evangelisticwork. He was told to take a circuit, with only a portion
of time being allowed for evangelistic services. Strengthenedby
.'Never," from the balcony,owilliam stalked from the
catherine's cry,
conference-and from the Methodist ministry-to begin independent
mission work. For a while he went where he was invited, preachedwhere
he could, in street and pulpit, awaiting God's direction' The Booths had
growing children by this time and economiccircumstanceswere worrisome.
rEdwnrd H. Rabbits, a wealthy boot manufacturer,had heard William street-preaching'
encouraged him and helped support his ministry for many years'
oLegendary.
William and Catherine Booth I 2l
On June 25, 1865, a group of people who held evangelisticmeetings
askedWilliam to begin a preachingministry. As a substitutefor an absent
minister, he would conduct meetingson a Quaker burial ground in the
Whitechapel district of London's East End. The group extended his
engagementand soon asked him to become their leader. During this
period, William walked the squalor-riddeneastend of London, watching,
listening, talking-compelled by the poor. He didn't like what he saw.So
many churches-but not one for the men and women and children who
peopledhis nightmarishdreams.He rememberedlater,"When I saw those
masses of poor people, so many of them evidently without God or
hope. . . there and then my whole heart went out to them. I walked home
'Oh, Kate, I have
and said to my wife,
found my destiny!"'
In 1869Bramwell, the eldestson and barely in his teens,was taken by
William into a saloon late one Sunday night. Bramwell reported, "The
place was crowded with men, many of them bearing on their faces the
marks of brutishnessand vice, and with women also, disheveledand
drunken, in some caseswith tiny children in their arms. There in that
brilliantly lighted place, noxiouswith the fumesof drink and tobacco,and
reeking with filth, my father,holding me by the hand, met my inquiring
gaze andsaid, 'Willie, theseareour people;thesearethe peopleI want you
to live for and bring to Christ."'s
When the embryo work began to take form it was called The Christian
Mission. William's messagewas simple and direct: "There are many ways
to damnationbut only one to salvation.JesusChrist can make the vilest
clean! I don't blame you for not believing me. Some of you weren't born
into this world. You were damnedinto it. But there'shope. Believe God!
Jesuslovesyou. Comel"
Folk beganto join Booth-converted toughsand streetwomen who had
no church, cultured and wealthy Christians who were sick of Sunday
religion, and a great many illiterate laborers. Though in the beginning
desiring that his converts return to traditional homes of worship, Booth
soon learnedthat they were not welcome, that they didn't want to return
and that he neededat least some of them to assisthim in his ministry. It
wasn't long before many in his unlikely and unlovely parish beganto use
the street-corneras a pulpit themselves.Many street people who would
have yelled down a theologian now stood speechlessto hear men and
-iq-lJllu,..
us William's l4-year-old aide, Bramwell attendedthe first annual conference.
This altruistic, quiet, sensitiveand legal-mindedboy, so like his mother,with his soft voice
and gentle gaze, was now William's right-handman, doing secretarialwork, keepingbooks
"Food
for the Millions" project, which providedcheapfood for the
and managingWilliam's
poor.
22 / PREACHING LADIES
women who had seemedto be as evil as Satantell of inner peaceand love.
But as yet the Mission was certainly no SalvationArmy. There was no
brassmusic, no uniform, no drum, no flag-nothing but the will to do and
the spirit to do it. Determinedto bring the Christlessto Christ, William
mounted many a soapbox to teach God's way to a congregationthat
shoutedand swore, reeled and spit. With the world as a battlefield and the
devil as the ever-presentenemy, there was need for an army. Toughsbroke
up their meetingsand nice peoplethoughtthe whole businessin the worst
possibletaste. Even the authoritiesoften draggedthem to prison. Booth's
army marched into the dim and dreary regions of the lost-the low places
of iniquity. Reviled, persecuted,cheeredby few, jeered by many, they
continuedto proclaim the message:
Jesus,the namehigh overall,
In hell or earthor sky.
AngelsandmenbeforeHim fall,
And devils fear and fly.
Folk stoppedto listen-one by one. One by one and two by two. Two by
two, then more and more. They filled each bench and crowded round each
open door-and The ChristianMission marchedon!
'78 financial and disciplinary difficulties oppressedthe
From 1875 to
Mission: evangelistswere in short supply and an experimentwas tried
(with strong recommendation from Catherine), the appointment of a
of the Barking Station. So
woman, Annie Davis, as supervisor-evangelist
"a
successfulwas Annie that in 1878 cloud of women were sentflying over
England," Mrs. Caroline Reynoldsand Mrs. Honor Burrell being two of.
these.
As yet there was no prescribedsocial-welfareprogmm, though a number
of services had been in operation for a number of years, including
drunkards' brigades, house-to-housevisiting Bible women, services to
"lost women," raggedschools,sewing classes,readingrooms and cheap
"blanket
and coal" religion, and in early
food depots. Booth deplored
years would not dispenseany kind of charity from his places of worship.
Certainly, the Mission never had been only a street-cornerarmy. Always
"You
practical, Booth early had commented,
can't preach to a man on an
"you can't make a man clean by
empty stomach," but he also realized that
washing his shirt." He always believed in the man-the man God intended
"It believes in the survival
residing somewhereinside the most depraved.
"The Salvation Army
of the fit," he once said of another organization.
believesin the salvationof the unfit. . . if we help the man it is in order that
we may change him. I see the folly of hoping to accomplish anything
abiding, either in the circumstancesor the morals of thesehopelessclasses
William and Catherine Booth | 23
except there be a change effected in the whole man as well as his
surroundings.. .NoW I proposeto go straightfor thesesinkingclasses,and
in doing so shall continue to aim at the heart. I still prophesythe uttermost
disappointmentunlessthat citadel is reached."
The social work of the Army grew both spontaneouslyand officially. To
meet need at the point of need, as William Booth believed he must, it
"Somebecame necessaryto begin, often ill-prepared, often failing.
"we
years,
times," observedBramwell in later
were building the ship
while we sailedher."
But Booth knew he had the key to the reclamationof society. "It is nasty
"pleading for the salvation
work," he said,
of men's souls when their
bodies are filthy, their clothes ragged, and their faces like an outlined map
for the lack of soap. . . as we passedalong the streetsthe Army was joined
by many strange recruits, out at the elbows, smelling of thick twist,
miserablelooking wretches,men in whose minds the truth was probably
dawning that it is not absolutely necessiuyto wear patent-leatherboots and
a broadclothcoat to enter the Kingdom of Heaven."
William and Catherine Booth believed their soup, soap, and salvation
religion was right because:one, God had set their hearts yearning and
called them to serve; and, two, becausethey had proved their premise by
results. Though the messagewas not always statedthrough spoken words,
("We never took a sermon to a cell. We took a tear."), still, they took the
message-their lives and the lives of the tramping soldiers behind them
"good
shining out the joyful truth that there are
tidings of great joy" for,
"u
born this day . ..a Saviour which is
unto all who will receive Him
Christ the Lord."
If impatience was William Booth's most unpleasant characteristic, it
"Be patient you
may be explainedby his words:
do
say?Wait for the Lord's
time? This is the Lord's time. Why should I wait? There is a sanctified
anger becauseit is just, and there is a sanctified impatience becauseit is
born of benevolence.How can we wait and see the people die and see the
generations sweep off before our eyes into eternal woe, that might be
rescued-that mieht be saved?"
Chapter II
MARCHING
ALONG
TIME:
April, 1878
PLACE:
Coventry
SETTING: l.eaving Chapel
"Exactly
this is what happened,Beck."
At the ringing of the chapel bell Eliza and Beck, Bibles tucked under
their arms, bouncedout and down the stepstoward the Hallelujahs.They
were bound for a free-and-easymeeting at the Salvation Factory.
"Tell
me like your life dependedon't," said Beck. "You're converted.
Lizzie? Cross your heart and hope t' die?"
"Beck,
I
that's infant talk. We're women now."
"Well,
you were a scaredy-catnot to kneel in meeting."
"I know.
The kneelingcamelater.I shan'thavethe correctwordsbut the
best wouldn't say it. First, the joy of the Hallelujahs. When they came
marchingup the aisle, I felt I wasjumping right out of the top of my head.
Then came Jimmy and Katie and-"
"You're
so proper,Lizzie. I just can't-"
"I
know. You're the one for the high jinks. Then SisterReynoldsbegan
to talk about Jesusand somethingbroke inside me, like my blood was
crying. No one else seemedcantankerousany more; just me."
"When
you say it, I see it. But 'twasn't like that for me,"
"How
was it?" They could hear the Hallelujahssinging.
"Well,
Pa an' Ma give me a Bible when I was eight an' I commencedto
read. Not the hard parts. Just about Jesus.He was enoughfor me. I told
'im
I'd be obliged if He'd take over.That's all there was, bur I do know.,,
25
26 / PREACHING LADIES
"It seemsas if you and I tradedplaces.Anyhow, what I'm telling you, I
spoke at chapel love feast.'And that's what folk are upset about."
"Becauseyou got saved?"
"No, becauseI got savedat the Hallelujahs. But my folks are happy.
'Praise
the Lord!' You know how he saysitMama cried and Papasaid,
mild. But for him it was a shout."
"Then I
shouldn't worry. God is dandy at makin' things work out."
"Here
comesthe open-airmarch.. . Ohl Poor things!"
Down the muddy spring street came the Hallelujahs, the preaching
ladiesmarchingbackward,followed by a long line of convertsattempting
"We'll gird on the armour and rush
to keep in a straightline while singing,
to the field, determinedto conquerand neverto yield...," but seriously
impededby a howling mob of roughsencouragedby publicans'and ne'erdo-wells who trotted cheeringon the sidelines.The hooligansespecially
tormentedJimmy Docker, who marched straight forward, placard high;
and the old drummer Sam Harrow, a reclaimed drunk, cockfighter and
gambler, assailantof many a decent provider. Harrow crumpled to the
ground, struck in the head by a brick.
"Beck!" Eliza said, "we can't wait to grow up. We've got to march
nowl."
Smallerthan most, Eliza racedthroughthe crowd, dipping and darting,
to stand in front of the fallen drummerwho was about to be stomped.She
thrust her Bible high over her head. Beck followed suit.
"Citizens of Coventry! Stopl You mock God. In His name, stopl"
For a moment the mob swayed.Then a rock knocked her Bible to the
ground.
"Ye-ow!" The fight was on again. Beck slipped her Bible into Eliza's
raised hand. What to do? Eliza closed her eyes. Dear Lord, now! The
answernowl One word flew into her thoughts.Eternity. She beganto sing
loudly, Beck joining:
EternitY,eternitY;
Wherewill you spendeternity?
'Tis heavenor hell
for you and me;
Wherewill you spendeternity?
A tough had grabbedher Bible, was about to hurl it at the fallen Harrow,
when he openedhis hand and let it fall.
rlove Feast: a period of service of personal experience and testimonials, sometimes
accompaniedwith the breaking and sharing of bread, and the distribution of water-not to be
confused with the communion servicewhich is a sharingof the body and blood of Christ,
either symbolically or by belief in transubstantiation.
rPublicans, meaning tavern keepers.
Marching Along 121
"Me hand'sburnin'!
God loosed'er on us! God loosed'er!"
His matesbacked away, but at a distancemany turned back to listen.
Eliza finished the song and they continuedto standlike fenceposts.Then,
wailing, one rushedto kneel at the drumhead.Two othershelpedcarry Sam
Harrow toward the Factory, his blood spilling on them. The remainder of
the attackers,aboutone hundredin number,eitherfell shamefacedlyin line
or helped shoulderinjured converts.
After makeshift repairs, some of the lady convertscontributing petticoat
ruffles for bandages,all the marchers,with the exceptionof Sam Harrow
who was laid on the platform, participatedin the crowdedmeeting. Sister
Reynolds assured her audience that all was well and even the most
seriously put upon, Sam Harrow, was now consciousand would, God
willing, be marching again in a day or two. She explainedthe set-to.
"God used two very young ladies His great glory."
to
The forms began to rock.
"We wan' the lassies!We wan' the lassies!
Let the lassiessing!"
Sister Reynoldsexplainedthe two were not convertsbut little stranger
angels. The roughs stamped their feet, jumped on the forms, threw
whiskey bottles and bangedspittoonswith pocketknives.
"We
wan' the lassies!We wan' the lassies!"
Sister Reynoldsaskedthat, if present,the girls would honor their Lord
by singing. Eliza and Beck held a whisperedconsultation,then holding
handstightly, marchedup the centeraisleto deafeninghurrahs.Eliza asked
if there were a guitar handy and, strumming, matched her soprano to
Beck's alto, singing to 1,000 stunnedlisteners:
Whatcan washawaymy sins?Nothingbut the blood of Jesus!
Whatcan makemepure within?Nothingbut the blood of Jesus!
It was as if a soft summer breeze had entered the room, soothing,
settling,caressing.Peoplebeganto weep.Beforethe songwas endedthere
was not a hallelujahto be heard.No spitting, no drinking, no blaspheming.
No yelling, no hissing, no howling. Not even a baby's whimper.
Sister Reynoldsrose.
"We
are in the presenceof God." She openedher Bible and read:
"But as manyas receivedHim (Jesus),to themgave
He power to
becomethe sonsof God, evento themthat believeon His name:which
were born, not oJ blood, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the
Word was madeflesh and dwelt among us (and we beheld His glory,
the glorl'as ofthe onb begottenofthe Father,)full of graceand truth"
(Johnl:12-14).
No heckling that night! Waves of sobbing broke forth. From throughout
28 / PREACHING LADIES
the auditorium folk began to filter to the penitent-form-the furred and
furbelowed beside the patched poor; ruffians and street girls next to
university professors;the shawled and the shaventogether; bent heads and
folded hands, wild facesand stretchedarms beseechingheaven.
"Glory!" said Sister Reynoldsat the conclusion.
"Hallelujah!" proclaimedthe converts,including Eliza and Beck.
"Amen!" roaredthe congregation,perhapsnot every soul in earnestbut
at least there were no vile oathsnor tossedmissiles.
From that night forward Eliza and Beck were bound to the Hallelujahs,
attending chapel only on mandatefrom their parents, who also frequented
the Salvation Factory, though the idea of women evangelist-administrators
still repulsedthem and they were uncomfortablein the noisy, sometimes
emotionalatmosphere.Nonetheless,they neverdisputedthat the presence
of the Almighty abodein the Factory.Soon it was April and with the going
of the snows,longer open-airmeetingswere conducted.Easterwas a town
festivalin Coventry,and SisterReynoldsearly announcedthat they'd make
"pagan"
celebration and have rejoicing reinforcementsfor
the most of the
the holy weekend. Converts from Leicester,four sisters and two brothers,
two of them called Happy Georgeand BlessedSally, would be worshiping
with Coventry faithfuls.
"As we'll be mos' diligently careful, we shan'thavea go-roundwith the
"We've
been as much plagued by the
police," Sister Reynoldsadvised.
police as the publicans and roughs. We'll let our Lord carry the day for us
and neveranswerback. Just go marchingon, handingout God-bless-yous.
'tis happy we are to havethe eldestson of Reverendand Mrs. Booth,
An'
Mr. Bramwell, bring our Easterevenin' message.Mr. Bramwell'sa young
gentlemanwith sweet spirit, clever brain and distinction, perhaps22 years
o' age, the eldestof eight. He's well acquaintedwith Jesus."
She further announced that plans had been made to use the Theatre
Royal for all festival servicesand continue the celebrationthrough Monday
when a monster afternoon open-air meeting would be conducted in Pool
Meadow at half past four, after which the entire congregationwould march
to the Mission Hall, kindly lent for the occasion,for tea and testimony,a
true love feast. She addedthat, despitetheir tender years, the Misses Eliza
Shirley and Elizabeth Pearsonwould again sing in the evening service.
The girls rushed home to sharethis momentousnews. They clattered in
the back door.
"Beck's come to tea, Mama! We've got to decide on Easter outfits."
Annie came from the breadboard,and the girls kissed her. She daubed
the tips of their noses with flour.
"Come, darlin's. A raspberry tart and a drop of tea." They sat at the
Marching Along | 29
kitchen table, a family treasureof huge proportionswith a central clawed
pedestal,coveredas usualwith a white linen cloth enhancedwith a very old
chasedsilver service. All important discussionswere aired at the kitchen
table.
"Now, then, Papawill buy the Eastertabric for Lizzie, and I'll help with
patternand scissors,but she must sew it herself."
"Me too," said Beck. "Ma says if I'm old enough to marry in two'r
threeyears,I'm old enoughto act grown up. What we want'sa patternand
color suitable for t'Mission. We'd make them exactly like Sister
Reynolds."
"Black?" Annie shushedher. "You'd look like play-widows. If you
want something sturdy, how about a soft brown challis with a delicate
paisley pattem?"
"But that wouldn't look Mission t'all!"
"It'd be
soberan' stylish,too," said Eliza.
"Not enough. Got t' be ugly like hers."
"Nonsense," said Annie. "Mrs. Reynolds is quite severe,and she's
much older, 30 or more. You can be just as holy in a lovely light batiste,
say a blue or rose. And dear little posy bonnets,basedon your old straws
should you want to put the stray coppersin the collection box."
Eliza brightened.
"Won't do," said Beck. "Got t'be plain. AndLizzie, we got t' dress
alike. When we're singin'-"
"Singing?" said Annie.
The girls jumped up to hug her.
"Mama, on Easter Mr. Booth's son, Bramwell, is to be the evening
speakerat the Hallelujahs and Beck and I are to sing a duet."
"Got t'
dressalike."
"Girls, I know how you feel but I must caution you both thatBlizais not
joining the Hallelujahs now, nor have we the intention for later. If you must
be plain, considera solid tan. Papacan get it through the mill. With dark
brown vblvet trim, velvet roses and streamersfor your straws."
"Mama's right, Beck," agreedEliza. "Let's have the tan."
"Very
well, but princesslike Sister Reynolds."
"Too severefor girls your
"That
fashion never caught on," said Annie.
age, and too tight for the buxom ladies.Thn with a slight bustle. Your old
cages' will fit, and your brown boots greasedup will do if you're intent on
frugality. A bit of ecru lace and brown velvet at the throat. Now then, off to
the flatirons for Eliza."
tCage: Wire cage-like foundation used as undergarment to sustain bustle.
30 / PREACHING LADIES
"When
do I put my hair up, Mama?" Eliza laughed,piling her curls
high. "And my skirts down?" The girls' bouffantskirts came to the top of
their high-lacedshoes.
"Time
enoughto grow old. To the irons!"
Easter Saturdayproceededaccording to schedule,though the police
would
twice stoppedMrs. Reynolds,telling her that singingprocessions
not be toleratedand her peopledarenot standin prominentpositionson the
streethenceforward.This edict disturbedno one. The Hallelujahsattracted
huge crowds and marched in silence to the theatre. People thronged to
watch. The congregationswere larger than ever before, offerings improved
and they rejoicedthat six soulssoughtthe Lord artd ten raisedtheir hands
for prayer.
Happy George, BlessedSally, and othersin the visiting brigadehelped
encouragemany bold and brave testimonials during the Sunday afternoon
"I
free-and-easymeeting. One housewifedeclared, know there's somethin' in religion now that I got a whole week'smoneyfrom me man instead
'adn't
"Why, rneself,
been
until I startedhereI
o' half." The nextdeclared,
in a place o' worship fer 15 years,an' tha' ware when I married."
But it was the evening service for which Eliza waited. Half the town
turnedout to hearMr. Bramwell Booth. Eliza and Beck had convertplaces
on the platform as the meetingcommenced.Breathlessand blown from the
open air, they attemptedto smooth their Easterfinery. The open-air crowd
had been surprisinglygood-natured.Not even a deadcat nor a pail of slop
had touched the converts as they silently marchedback to the Factory.
Police, though watchful, had not been abusive.
A string band and half a dozen concertinasstruck up the melody of
"Onward, Christian Soldiers" and, though the handclappingand foot
stompingwere deafeningand roughsshoutedvulgar epithets,thereseemed
no undertoneof aggression.Easter singing lightheartedlyprevailed as,
behindSisterReynolds,Bramwell Booth ascendedthe theatrestage.A roar
"Mr. Bramwell
of applausesucceededSister Reynolds' announcement:
Booth of The Christian Mission."
Eliza was awed by the young man's appearance-much younger than
shehad picturedsucha gentleman.Thll, with a slight bend in the shoulders
and mild, rather pallid features.Such a kindly face. An ear trumpet had
beenbrought for his use, if needed,for he was somewhathard of hearing.
How could such a sensitivegentlemanspeakin public? How could he face
the howling mobs? He smiled, waved, then knelt by his chair in prayer.
Early in the meeting he spoke in a modest, conversationaltone of hrs
conversion,of his parentsand their influenceon his life. He mentionedhis
Marching Along | 3l
mother'stenderness,albeit administeredwith school-mistress
severity.He
recounteda letter she'd recentlyallowedhim to readin which she'd written
her mother that Bramwell was not exhibiting the attentivenessand
"Commendable,"
obediencenecessaryto proper growth.
said Bramwell,
though one must considerthat at the time of writing he'd been less than
three years of age. "To disobey," he said, "was to incur her highest
displeasure."Not a principle to make grownupscomfortable.It was her
appreciationofthe fact that obedienceis a necessaryprinciplein education,
growth and development."For example, we were always encouragedto
expresssympathy with beggarsand tramps, and whenever we took an
interest in a particular tramp, she would say, 'You can give him your
pudding.' She believedin hitching not only the wagonto a star,but the star
to a wagon."
He mentioned that newswriters often said his father was overexacting.
"Father
demandsthe best for God," he said. "Always the best. Once,
accostinga Mission evangelist,he asked,'How areyou doing?' 'Well, sir,'
said the man, 'the bestI can.' 'The bestyou can?' snortedmy father.'The
best you can? That will never do, man! God must have better than your
best!"' "Sometimes," said Bramwell, "I haveput it to him that he would
be dissatisfiedat the moment of victory on the field if he noticed that a gun
of one of the batterieshad come up with six horseswhen it shouldhavehad
seven.And his reply was, 'Yes, Bramwell, but if thereought to havebeen
seven,I should be right to be vexedbecausethere were six."'
He said that extreme care for minute detail, demand for accuracy, and
tensionin his fathercame in part becausehe cried out againstwickedness
and the guilt it engendered.The elder Booth seemedto bear others' pain.
"Not
long ago I walked into his room very late and found him pacing.
'What
are you doing up?' I asked.'I am thinking.' 'But ought not you to be
asleep?''No,' he answered.'I am thinking.' 'But what are you thinking of
especially?''Bramwell,'he said'I am thinking about the people'ssins.
What will they do with their sins?"'
"Father
seemsto bring mankindto this considerationwith his own life as
proof that God can do miracles with a man by nature most eccentric and
sensitive," said Bramwell. "That concern will be the burden of my
messagetonight."
Many in Coventrylistenedto young Booth; citizenswho dwelt in infinite
squalorand abysmaldegradation,as well as the elite of society.All who
attendedwere enraptwith the sweetnessof his speech,its earnestentreaty.
Eliza was profoundly stirred by his message,which was based on this
Scripture:
32 / PREACHINGLADIES
"Concerning
His SonJesusChristour Lord, whichwas., 'declared
to be theSonof Godwithpower,accordingto thespiril of holiness,by
the resurrection
from the dead" (Romansl: 3, 4)'
"Just
as one of the great proofs, if not the great proof of the truth of
"so one
Christianity,is the fact of the world's needfor it," said Bramwell,
grand proof of the Resurrection lies in the fact that no interpretation of
Christ'steachingor Christ'slife would be worth a brassfarthing-so far as
the actual life of saving man is concerned-without Jesus' death and
resurrection."
Bramwell said that if Jesusdid not die the Bible is little more than a
superior book of proverbs or a collection of high-polished copybook
maxims-if He did not rise from the dead, Christianity is a dead
discipline, like a splendid specimenof carved marble in some museum,
exquisiteto look upon and ofpricelessvalue, but cold, cheerlessand dead.
"A living Person must needs be our Friend, Saviour and Guide,"
'Follow My methods or My
"Jesus
did not say,
Bramwell continued.
'Follow Me!' It is the life of Jesus,from beginningto end,
disciples,'but,
and the evidence of that life in us that is really important. No extent of
worldly wisdom or historicaltestimonycan finally establishfor us the fact
and power of Christ'sresurrectionunlesswe haveproof in ourselvesof His
presencethereas a living Spirit. With St. Paulwe must know Him and the
power of His resurrection."
Bramwell declaredthat no books, not eventhe Bible itself, no testimony,
not evenof thosewho were presenton the first EasterDay. were as good as
experientialproof. Iftis is beyondcontradiction.
"What use is it?" he demanded,"to arguewith a man bom blind that he
'WhereasI was blind now I see."'
is still blind when he declares,
He told them that salvationthrough Christ is the hope of the world' and
that the Mission's strugglefor the souls of men centeredin this glorious
"HE IS RISEN!" He next pointed out that until a man by faith
truth:
receivedChrist within, he is deadin sin. Jesus,he said, nevermadelight of
sin-which is any separationfrom God. He used no disguiseswhen He
talked of it, no equivocalterms, no softeningwords. There was nothing in
His discourse to suggest He thought of it merely as a disease or
derangementor misfortune.He deemedit deadly rebellion againstGodthe greatdisasterof the world. He said therewas no remedyfor it but His.
No rains to wash it, no waters to clean it, no fire in hell itself to purge its
defilement. The only hope was the blood of Jesus'sacrifice.He came to
shed it, to savethe people from their sins.
"That," statedBramwell, "is our hope. Our hope is madesecureby our
which the onlv true test is its treatment of sin' There is
faith-for
Marching Along I 33
somethingwithin men that definessin. They do not leam it or deduceit or
believe it. They know it. All men do. I do. You do. The renamingof evil
has little or no effect either upon its natureor upon thosewho are under its
mastery.A new label doesnot changethe poison. Its victim is a victim still.
Nor doespunishmentfor sin entirely disposeof it. This may providerelief
but what people need is a cure. Can the slavebe emancipatedby a new
contrivancefor painting his chains?Never! Sin is a wrong against self,
againstfellows-and most important-against God.
"So
"comes
every man" Bramwell concluded
at last to the awaken'Have
ing-evil must standup for judgment. We cry tonight withDavid,
mercy upon me, O God, according to Thy loving-kindness: according to
the multitude of Thy tender mercies blot out my tansgressions. Wash me
thoroughly from mine iniquity . . . Against Thee, Theeonly, have I sinned"'
( P s a l m5 1 : 2 a , 4 a ) .
It seemedthat night evenlackadaisicaland resistantworshipersleft with
hosannahsin their hearts.Therewere no decayingchickens,rotteneggs,or
old boots as the SalvationFactory closed shop. However,the week after
Easter was a diff'erent story.
Sister Reynoldshad orderedall convertson holiday duty both morning
and afternoon,when monsteropen-airmeetingswere to be conductedin
Pool Meadow where, it was expected, thousandswould converge for
celebrationand would follow to the Mission Hall for tea and testimony,a
carefree period of food for both soul and body. However, so well attended
was the open-air service that only about half the crowd could be
accommodatedinside, and convertskept the open-airmeetingsgoing from
three in the afternoonuntil sevenin the evening.
"Then," exultedSisterReynoldsto her enthralledaudiencethatevening,
"we came in processionto the Factory,singing all the way. As you know,
our town has been alive this weekendwith marchesin band processions,
with young women dancingthroughthe streetsto the lively brasstunes.We
thought surely we might sing a little for Jesus.PraiseHis name, we got to
the Factory without the authoritieshalting us."o
oCoventry, England, Corps History given in The Christian Mission Magazine. Sister
"Sister
Burrell gaveher farewelladdress,which mademany poor
Reynolds-Easter Monday:
sinners fall . . . Easter Tiresday: We had to leave off speaking in the meeting which followed
(open-air) when we saw one poor man, with his handkerchiefup to his face, crying for
mercy. . . Women are continually talking about their homes, whrch were once little hells but
'It's
are now little Heavens.An old man, who had been a greatdrinker said the other night,
'The
SalvationFactory'squite a byword.' One young
beautiful to come here.' Another said.
woman had got so miserableshe could not rest till she gaveherselfto God. She tells me that
when she heard me ask the Lord to make poor sinners miserable, she thought that it was very
unkind of me for she was miserableenough. . . since her conversionsays everything'sso
different. Even the very steam in the factory goes differently."
34 / PREACHING LADIES
Eliza had been with the secondgroup, coming indoorsnow with Beck,
famished and tired but more excited than ever she'd been in her fifteen
"or wherever my
years, a festival of thoughts leaping about in her skull,
thcughts congregate," she later told Amos and Annie. She dancedaround
her fathet drumming her tambourine, now decoratedwith red silk ribbons.
"Papa, listen to me! I mustjoin the Hallelujahs!I'm madefor them. You
saw me yourself on the march today. I sang and clapped with the best of
them, and I've never felt more robust in my life. I could even wear Sister
Reynolds'black princessgown now."
"Lizzie," Annie put her tatting in a sewing basket,"if all this is God's
leading, there's enough time to contemplate it. You've never been
rebellious, irrational nor impulsive, but I'm a little anxious. You seem
quite overwhelmedwith the Hallelujahs."
Tappingher tambourine.Eliza ran to hug Annie.
"Mama, I've not lost my senses.It's just thatlknow I belong and that
there'ssomethingquite glorious in store."
"Darlin', better a small puddin' with purpose and reason than a whole
"We'll
seein six monthshow the land
creamcakewith ague," said Amos.
lies."
"Plenty of time for the moumin' frock," said Annie. "Do you realize,
Pet, you won't be sixteenuntil the ninth day of October?Don't seekto be a
blossombefore you've been a bud. Now, off to bed with you."
The next night Eliza and Beck marched directly behind Mrs. Reynolds.
Eliza carried the borrowed guitar and Beck waved her embroidered linen
handkerchief to the whosoever.The processionsang with gusto:
Weare marchingonward, singingas we 80,
To thepromisedland whereliving watersflow. . .
Whether the Easter weekend was the lull before the storm, or whether
"old forktail," as Sister Reynolds put it, had found where to use his
ammunition with best dispatch, is unclear, but the most treacherousmelee
yet experiencedbroke out the day after at the pump in Much Park Street,
where the crowd stopped carriages and pedestriansfor blocks and Eliza
was quite sure police had encouragedthe attacking desperadoes,from the
looks of them. At any rate, as the roughs closed in, bashing and
butchering, armed with a formidable cache of weapons-from lead pipes
and battering rams to cat-o'-nine-tails, flacons of hot water and bags of
flour, which they immediately cut open to powder the Hallelujahs-a
command was heard.
"Haltl" shouted a constable. "Halt in the name of Her Majesty, the
Marching Along I 35
Queen!" He handedSister Reynoldsa summons,the crowd was forcibly
disbursedand SisterReynoldswas hustledinto the Black Maria, along with
an assortmentof converts,amongthem Eliza and Beck. In court, 50 to 60
stood in raggedlines beforethe magistrate,a gimlet-eyedgentlemanwho
sniffed them with displeasure.'
"Mrs.
Caroline Reynoldsstep forward."
She stepped.
"You
are the preacher-administratorof the group known as The
Christian Mission?"
"Yes, your Honor."
"And responsiblefor
the activitiesof this group?"
"Yes, your
Honor."
"You
are charged with the obstruction of traffic, disturbing the peace
and inciting to riot. Fined ten shillings and ordered to desist from
congregatingin the open-air meetings."
"Your Honor,
I did not incite to riot nor disturb the peace. I shall do all
in my power to avoid causingobstructionbut cannotpromise not to hold
open-air meetings. It is the venomousmob which obstructs and from
which we should be protected. They are paid by the publicans. We must
have the right of free speechto be properly about our business."
"What
business?"
"Our King's business."
"Her belovedMajesty,
QueenVictoria, rules Britain."
"King
Jesus. I shall not pay, and we cannot discontinue the open-air
meetings for we are marching to convert Coventry! Including your
immortal soul, your Honor. Comrades,shall we seekthe throne of grace?"
Half of the audienceplopped down.
"Order!"
The judge poundedhis gavel.
A spatteringofoaths, clapping, hallelujahs and glories broke forth like a
disableddissonantstreetorgan.
"Madam,"
snappedthe magistrate, "I give warning that the next time
I'll hold you in contempt and have you flogged with every one of your
ragtail band. Twenty shillings or sevendays in prison."
5Coventry, England, Corps History by Mrs.
Caroline Reynolds, The Christian Mission
Magazine, 1878. "I was only kept a quarter of an hour in custody although it seemedmuch
'I
longer . . . thought your friends wouldn't let you stay here,' said the officer (who took her to
her cell). One woman, Yorky Liz, protested so against my going. She cried, 'Don't let her!
She'll have nuthin'but dry bread to eat and boards to lie on. I've been myselfand I know all
about it.' Then I got lots of sympathy from the poor people...We have only to ask the poor
and they help us. . ."
36 / PREACHING LADIES
Sister Reynoldsclosed her eyesand folded her hands.
"Thank You, Jesus," she said matter-of-factly.And to the magistrate,
"Fines
are an admissionof guilt when paid, your Honor. God has a right to
the streetsof Coventry."
There was a volley of amens and hallelujahs, even from some of the
assailants,and a wild stampingof boots.
"Cheers for the preachin'lady!" The courtroomrang with hip' hip
hooraysas two officers handcuffedSisterReynoldsand pushedher toward
the cells. The crowd had not disbursedwhen, shovingpastthe doorkeeper,
Amos strodeangrily up the aisle.
"Your Honor," he had his hand in his pocket, "I'll be obliged if you
releaseMrs. Reynolds.I'm honoredto pay her fine." He put the money on
the clerk's desk, turned and was striding toward the door when he spied
Eliza. His eyeswidened.
"Come with me." He took Elizaby the arm, pulled her to the door and
"This endsthe Hallelujahsfor you, my
once in the open said with severity,
girll"
"Papa, don't talk like that! How can you pay the fine
Eliza was stunned.
and be againstthem?"
Amos kept his hand firmly on her arm, propelling her forward.
"I do believein them. They preachstraightgospeland go for the worst.
They're straightforward,loving and earnest.And sadly set upon. But their
ranks are no place for frail giils. It was difficult enoughbefore, but now
this court business.It wouldn't be long before you'd be manacledto cell
bars. Fighting in the streetsis not femalebusiness.God must raiseup male
soldiers. If Mrs. Reynolds had been a man this could well have been
averted.Women attractmen, and men-this kind of men-attract trouble
straight from hell."
He hustled Eliza on and tug as she might, cry as she did, nothing
availed. When word got to Beck's parentsthat Eliza had been forbidden,
she was also forbidden, and the girls could only tearfully beseechGod to
lead them out of this tormentingrestraintfrom duty. Secretlythey sangthe
happy songsthey'd learnedat the Hallelujahs.
The prohibitions lasted throughout April when neither Amos nor Annie
were proof against Eliza's pleas for them to read postersregarding an
eminent, eccentricHallelujah visitor.
"Papa, this fine gentlemanwas born and bred in Coventry. Please,
please let me go-if not to the open-air meeting, then to the indoor
meeting to hear Mr. Elijah Cadman."
Marching Along I 37
Amos and Annie studiedthe scarletposter,one of hundredsshoweredon
Coventry:
COVENTRY'S CONVERTED PUGILISISWEEP!
ELIJAH CADMAN TO STORM THE FORTS OF DARKNESS!
SATAN TO BE WAYLAID!
VHICH IS WINNING
CAPTAIN IN A SALVATION ARMYヽ
THEヽ VORLD TO JESUS!
COME!
WITNESS THE ATTACK AT THE
8pm.
THEATRE ROYAL
8p.m.
"Please?"
"Lizzie, you may go,"
said Amos. "We'll accompanyyou. Pet, the
prohibition is for your own good. God doesn't want your young life
tormented-or worse. He doesn't expect us to lose our reason in our
salvation."
So it was that the Shirley family attended a spectacular service
conductedby the ex-pugilistchimney sweep,Mr. Elijah Cadman.
The meeting had begun, when, due to inclement weatherwhich had
delayedhim, the evangelistin question marchedon stage, a diminutive
black-beardedman whose girth was the measureof his height. Broadshoulderedwith a humorous gleam to his dark eyes, he had enormous
vitality. His gestureswere large and his voice deep and vibrant. Also, it
was said by thosewho remembered,he was powerful beyondhis size and
had been a vicious antagonistwhen drunk.
After the opening exercises and before his lecture Elijah gave his
testimony,a statementthat might well havebeenconsideredto be a cheap
fabrication except that there were those present who rememberedthat he
had been the runt in a brood of five infants left by a Coventry millworker
who, "worn out by privation, toil and excess," died when Elijah was 15
months old.
"Me mother was
a silk weaveq" said Elijah, "an' she arly taught we
shouldno' whine no' excuseno' lamentour lot, but fight our way through.
That I did." He laughedlike dynamite. "A' six I ware done wi' education,
boun' meself t' a sweepwho give me breadan' board fer the privilege o'
't
climin' chimneys an' sweepin' down
soot. Face coveredby a calico
mask, I'd be pushedup t' chimney,a scraperin me 'ands, tol' t' clean its
insides.
38 / PREACHING LADIES
"sometimes, we knew, little boys ware chokedin chimneys,ubut t'was
not tha' fear set me weepin',but t' terror I'd come on the Black Bogey who
lurked insidet' gobblelittle sweeps.At six I ware often drunk, fer t' sweep
'ouse'
'is
an'
boys ware give a small drop o' beer t' each
"At
t3 me mither an' granniedied, an' at l7 I wen' off't Rugby fer more
chimneysan' becamea terror to t' town. Foughtlike t' devil and drank like
a fish, an' soon became spanin' partner t' a carousin' pugilist. One
'angin' Warwick gaol and decidedto
'eard
at
o' a public
Christmaswe'd
t' danglin' bodies,me mate
watched
As
we
celebrateby goin' t' execution.
'Thaswhatye'll cometo, 'Lija, one day.''e upsetme' 'e did, so back
said,
to Coventry I came, tail tucked betweenme legs, leavin' me mate cursin',
for I'd t' money. Becamea teetotaler,then quit tobaccoan' oft spoke int'
public squaret' this purPose.
"This ware sometime ago, in early '60s. In 1864,I becamea partnerin
me employer'ssweepbusinessan' soon after stoppedto listen t' a ranter
'Death on the PaleHorse.' He so stirredthis renegadecome
who spokeon
t' causea row that I wen' prowlin' aboutt' road fer weeksto get meself in
'I'm lost. I'm afraido' death.''Christdied
'and.
Not so. One night I said,
'Did 'e now?' saidL 'Then 'ere'sa man as'll die
for me,' the rantersaid.t
'im
fer
as died fer me. I'm gonnafight fer God an' not t' devil.' I knelt by
'eart an' mind
me bed all tha' night, an' at last in t' mornin', t' storm in me
ceased.I ware a convartedman an' knew it. Then prayin',1 saw a Form
'eart o' gladness.I dressed,
and a Face. Me eyesware full o' tearsan' me
ran down, nearly tumblin' over me master'swife who ware sittin' on t'
'er, 'I've
seenJesusChrist!'
step,an' tol'
"I ware not out of me mind but felt I'd t' shout the glory o' it, so ran
'I've seenJesusChrist!' From then
along t' streets,tellin' every man I met,
'ow I loved
on I ware a local preacher.Couldn't neitherreadnor write, but
'Cadman,' 'e says' 'you
that Bible. Once I ware accostedby a white collar.
'Did I read il right?' I asked.
read t' lessonwi' your Bible upsidedown.'
'Yes.' 'e said. 'Then,' said I, 'what'sthe matterhowlheld t'Book?'
6St. John Ervine, God's Soldier, p.345. "Small boys for narrow flues," was a common
advertisement.A largerboy might stick in a nine-inchsquarechimney and suffocate-a very
disagreeablebusiness for everybody since the lad not only died but put his employer to the
expenseof hiring a bricklayerto demolisha part of the chimneyso the corpsecould be cleared
away and the flue made to function again."
rSt. John Enine, God's soldier, p.347. Cadmancould not read, but he soon learnedafter
"Tiaking an old-fashioned alphabetboard he got the interestof a large group of
his conversion.
'A,' said a child'What's
that'l'
childrenthen holding up the boardpointedto a letterand said,
,Is he right?' said Elijah to the rest. At the end of the third week's 'teaching' the teacherhad
a variety of onethe namis of the letters in his head and their shapesin his eye. He learned
'at.' He asked the
syllable words in this manner, but arrived at a troublesome fence with
'What do you
'What's
that?' The class was puzzled once more.
.-hildr.n in the usual style,
'eads?' 'An 'at.' 'That's hitl"'
wear on your
Marching Along I 39
"In 1865
when I married me God-blessedgirl, Maria Rosina, she soon
joined a hallelujahband, wore red shirts like Garibaldi'sand took off their
coats durin' meetin'. They ware t' noisy men of God, and oft pelted wi'
mud and stones.I knew when I saw 'em they ware me class, and though
when I went t' Mr. Booth t'join up I wore a well-cut suit an' tall silk 'at, I
ware all for t'jerseysan' hallelujahs."
As Cadman sat to wipe his wet forehead,Sister Reynoldstold of his
Christian Mission career, how he'd always consideredhimself God's
soldier. As evangelistadministratorat Hackney, stationedin an outpost
almost in the enemy trenches,he'd written of conflict to the editor of The
Christian Mission Magazine, signing his reports, "Yours in the Kins's
army."
"Mr.
Cadman is a fighting man, " Sister Reynoldstold the congregation,
"ready rush
to
the enemy at any moment, no matter how bloody he is from
earlier wounds. Let me read you from one encounter:
At a saloon,thepublicancameoutandblackguarded
us.He thensent
out half a dozendrunkenfellows,someof themsix feethigh, who
commenced
knockingme about,andoneof themlayingholdof me,
rippedmy trousersvery nearlyin two, anotheroneknockingmy hat
off and kickingit in double.ThankGod, my headwasn'tin it. At
night we had a glorioustime of it, and sinnersweepingcameto
JESUS.Weareoftenpeltedwith deadcatsandratswhileprocessioning in the streets."8
After the usual singing, praying and collection taking, Sister Reynolds
introduced the subject of the evening by a further anecdoteregarding
Cadman.
"Brother
Cadmanis a soldier.In October 1877,he, with Gipsy Smith,n
openedfire on Whitby with a call for 2,000 men and women to join what
he termed 'The Hallelujah Army.' He wrote out a bill to this effect and the
people were most curious as many were half expectingEngland to go to
battleroand were alarmedat the mentionof women engagedin warfare.He
signed at the foot, 'Captain Cadman.' A month later, Mr. Booth visited
Whitby. In Mr. Cadman'shome he found a hidden poster announcinghis
coming as 'Generalof the HallelujahArmy.' He instructedMr. Cadmanto
forward it to headquarters.During this Easter'smeetingsin Whitby, at the
head of the Easter processionhe placed a banner which stated:Wa.n rs
tGeorge Scott Railton, Iwenry-one Years,
Salvation Army...
'Gipsy Smith: Later, moved
to America and became popular as an independentevangelisr,
very well known on the east coast during the tum of the century.
'uWarfright: Russia had
defeatedTi:rkey and the British government sided with Turkey, a
position which threatenedactive conflict with Russia.
40 / PREACHINGLADIES
necLanep! Recnulrs ARE wANTED!THE Hx-letulRH Anuv, FIGHTING
ron Goo!" Now then, let us havea rousingmartial melody and we'll hear
what Brother Cadmanhas in store for us."
"Onward, ChristianSoldiers" and listenedwith rapt
Coventryitessang,
attention to the dynamic little soldier tell of portentouschangesin the
Mission.
"But a week or two ago," Cadmanbegan, "proofs for t' 1878 annual
report of t' Mission to t' public was being proofreadby Mr. Booth; t'
secretaryof t' Mission, Mr. Railton; an' Mr. Bramwell Booth, chief aide.
'Appenedin Mr. Booth'sbedroomwhere as is customaryearly in t' morn,
t' faithfuls were summoned for instructions. T' report read:
THE
CHRISTIANMISSION
of the
underthe superintendence
REV. WLLIAM BOOTH
isa
VOLUNTEERARMY
"'I objectto that last phrase,'saidWilliam Booth. Then he strodeacross
'Now,' 'e said'
the room an' bent over t' desk where t' two otherswrote.
'we are not volunteers,t'for we feel we must do what we do, and we are
'e put 'is pen through 'volunteer,'
always on duty.' Without further word,
'salvation.'
and above it wrote
"Now," exultedCadman,"the deedis done! To t' presentwe've beenan
arrny o' salvationin everything but name. Now we shall know ourselvesto
be what God intended. God's Salvation Armyl Soon we'll be marchin'
'round the world-our weapon,God's love. Flags n' drums an' horns an'
uniforms. Why, I'd like to wear a suit o' clothes t' would let everyone
know I mean war to t' teeth an' salvationfor t' world!"
Enthralled, Eliza listened, observing Cadman look intently more than
once at her parents.
"Are there responsible, courageous fighters for God, married and
single, who'll becomefull-time captainsfor King Jesus?Come an' sign
"
up!
The Shirleys did not acknowledge his inquiry, but their reaction was
strongly expressedaround the tea table before bed. Eliza was astonishedat
their resistance.
・R o b e n S a n d a n夕閉
he voluntees,"an
″ム″
′
閉 :ο
わ伊 ゲ れでS ″
, 動び
り , V o l l , p 2 3 0T“
auxlliary and paH―time citizen army, nrst cOnstituted in the reign of Gcorge III and
reOrganized in 1863(later replaced by the te市 torlals),Were at the time receiving much
notice一 not a little of it dettsive''
Marching Along I 4l
"I could neverdo sucha thing!" saidAnnie. "A woman'splaceis in the
home. Perhaps a few, like Mrs. Reynolds and Mr. Booth's wife have
specialcallings, but as a generalrule, I hold to Scripture."
"yet how
"I
can Satancastout Satan?Apples don't
agree," said Amos,
grow on thorn bushes. We can't refute the fact that the Hallelujahs are
becominga householdword in Coventry-and many's the sinful life that's
been righted."''
Eliza had burst into wild weeping.
"Lizzie, love," Amos put his arms around her. "You're our chief
concern.If we becameactive, you'd reachwomanhoodin chaos.Believe
me, if these wonderscontinue and crowds keep growing, The Salvation
Army will know persecution like the martyrs. For your sake, if not our
own, we must not become members of The Salvation Army."
Eliza could only sob and go running from.the room.
12Coventry, England, Corps History, The Christian Mission Magazine, 1878, by Mn.
"One
Christian man, the managerof a works, said the other day that, for
Caroline Reynolds.
the first time, their boiler was cleaned out without hearing a man swear. Anothet an
unconverted man, who keeps a shop, told one ofour people that since the Mission's been in
town, the people paid their debts better, and it was a lot in his pocket, and that he should send
us something toward the work. One day as I was walking with another sister up a street, where
the stones were very rough, I remarked to her how bad they were to walk on. 'Yes,' said an
'I
old woman, who was sitting on a doorstep, wish you could alter them, misses, like you are
doin' everything else in Coventry.' Glory!"
mSTORIEェ
ェL
Silk Weavingin Coventry
Amos Shirley was a silk weaver; thus, the following information is
relevantto our story:
France was the world's chief silk produceruntil 1685, when, with the
revocationof the Edict of Nantes,400,000 Huguenots,many of them silk
weavers,were driven into exile. They fled to England. In 1718,a new
method of throwing was introducedand the English industry expanded,
with English silks replacingFrench.
Among the importantsilk cities of Englandwas Coventrywhich, by the
end of the 18th century specializedin silk ribbons. Silk in England was
important partly due to fashion, silk decorationsbeing employed in a
mannerunbelievableto us. Loom improvementswere made locally but it
was the French Jacquardmachine (adoptedin 1820 in Coventry) which
made the productionof figured ribbons possible,plus the introductionof
steampower in 1831,that made the industry flourish.
By 1850 steam factoriesin Coventry (employing 25,000 people) were
common. Also, steam power was made availablefor weaving in private
homeswhich were now built with high third floors to accommodatelooms.
"steam yards" below) was
Overheadshafting(poweredby enginesin the
canied into the weavingrooms. Foleshill, where Annie Shirley was born,
was one of thesefactory satellites.
After mid-century,the industry declined. This was due to French and
Swiss competition (duty free during Napoleonicand restorationperiods)
and the fact that silk and silk ribbon went out of fashion.Weightedsilk had
recentlybeen introduced,heavywith iron and other materials.It was very
heavy and wore badly. Fashionabledressesrequired so much material
(30-40 yards)that most women could not afford an all-silk dress,so turned
to wool, cambric, batiste and India muslin during the bustle period of
1870-'90.
America had been experimenting with silk and after the Civil War put
high protective tariffs on luxuries, including silk. By 1872, the United
Statessupportedthe Silk Associationof America, and at the Centennial
Exhibition in 1876,American silk was in fair competitionwith that made
abroad. Paterson, New Jersey, was the chief silk city; Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania,second,with concentrationon silk ribbons.
42
William Booth, Founder of The Salvation Army
Catherine Booth, wift of William
Bramwell Booth, first child
William and Catherine
Mrs. Booth preaching at City Temple, London (around 1889)
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的ミｏももヽネ、Ｓヽく 、Ｓ ゃしヽトミ母崎 母卜ヽ し、 ミｏ もＮミ ﹄︻ふミミ苺ヽヽ
From the Musical Cornbat!(Boston, 1976)
Costumesby Julie Kennedy
Eliza and escort in early
unifurm (about 1880}
acted by Eric and Nancy
Jackson Sampson
"Amos'
theme" by Colonel Howard Chesham
Reddy, an American
convert, posed by
Major William Hulteen
From the Musical Combat! (Boston. rn6)
Costumes by Julie Kennedy
Coventry elite g,oing to hear the
preaching ladies
Philudelphia society belles ("swells" )
are also attracted to Eliza's preaching
"lrlr r2/rヵ
タクr夕αC打 ″g′ αか でs
ご″ss,″gr力 で``,′
″ cθドで″′
ご′
J_ 2'Sメθ″″=yン ル″体 ′
り 冴rざ
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熙1杯￨‐
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Hanging
the sign at the chair factory
in Philadelphia
ON
SALVA猟
ARMIT!
HALLTLUJA
FIilIALIS
IUIO
FROM ENOLAND,
sill .knl ilhl 'n,! on Ulnlf .,JCOI) oil l'nr:e,Ot'ti SOCLS,
Ctilnn\rt.nq
5TE,
SIIIIDAY,
OCTOBEN
1879,
IN THE
Factory,
Sahathn
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Eliza (left)
and her mothen
Annie Shirlev
Placard and billboard
signannouncingmeetings
conducted by the Shirleys
at the Salvation Factory
in Philadelphia
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Sufem,N.Y.
Chapter III
ヽ︱
TIME:
August,1878
PLACE:
SalvationFactory
THE
SALVAT10N
ARMⅣ
SETTING:WarCongress
ReportMeeting
"Sing onl" commanded
Captain Caroline Reynolds to the Coventry
comrades. One thousand strong they boomed, "March on! March onl
We'll bring the jubilee! March on! March on! Salvationmakes us freel"'
after which the captain gave them a report of the first Salvation Army War
Congress,held the previous week in London. It had been a three-day
conferenceattendedby headquartersand station officers and members,
during which The Christian Mission not only had been renamedbut also
confereeshad been informed the Army would have a military patternand
SuperintendentBooth, now to be termed General,t would assist in
procuringother employmentfor any full-time evangelistswho chosenot to
remain in the ranks. Among Captain Reynolds' most receptivelisteners
were the Shirleys. Though three months earlier they had decidedagainst
membership,they frequentedthe Factory,continually wheedledby Eliza.
Captain Reynolds'report concernedthe conformationof The Salvation
Army to quasi-military discipline.
'Sung to the "converted" melody, "Marching
through Georgia," introducedto England
by evangelistDwight L. Moody.
:GeneralBooth: A rank reluctantlyacceptedby William Booth. "General"
for sometime
had been a shortenedlerm for "General Superintendent"and Elijah Cadmanhad adoptedit
previously; however. in an early report Booth had written on a proof sheet thus designating
him: "lsn't this a bit pretentious?"He suggestedhis name be reprintedin lower case.Once
assuredthat the old conferencesystemwas too unwieldy, he acceptedthe appellationand
becameGeneral Booth in everv resDect.
51
52 / PREACHING LADIES
"we'll
"Now," she
havethe ranks of sergeant-major,
told her listeners,
sergeantand corporal for lay leadersand leftenant, captain and major for
full-time evangelists.With one General, Mr. William Booth, assistedby
his continual comrade, Mrs. CatherineBooth. She it is who speaksto
overflow congregationson London's west side, preachingin London City
Temple and the like, inviting the well-to-do into the Kingdom and their
offeringsinto the east-endministry, wherefolk are painedto keepbody and
soul from raveling. Here she also wins the highborn to membership,
convincing many that the Kingdom has no boundariesof culture, creed or
color.
"As
to uniform, I expectthat too will be ours. At presentthere is free
experimentation.At Congress young Herbert Booths wore a plumed
warrior's bonnet, Brother Pearsona bobby's helmet, and many others,
conductors' caps. The ladies remain loyal to their Quaker bonnets and
princess frocks, stripped of all ornamentationas the General has directed.
"As
to praise:brassbandsomay accompanysinging, as well as pianos,
orchestras,strings, concertinas,whistles, Jew's harps, mouth organsand
any other instruments that can honor the Lord. Songster brigades will
replacechoirs, and our strainswill be joyful, often using the old favorites
but also melodiescapturedfrom the corner saloon.tOur prayer meetings
will be knee drills; weekly offerings, cartridges.We shall fire volleys,
'Hallelujah!' and'Amen!' And we shallconductmilitary drills to
shouting
avoid ragtail marches.
"We
shall continuewith nightly open-airand indoor meetings,holiness
meetings, free-and-easysand more. We shall ever more courageouslyseek
out the lost, visiting homes and hell-holes of iniquity, always carrying
We shall vow to
prayer,the Scripturesand our white-wingedmessenger.u
rHerbert Booth: Booth's youngest son, later to become Territorial Commander for Canada
and, later, Australia. The Army's finest songwriter.
oWhen criticized about using brass music, William Booth once answered: "If standing on
my head and beating a tambourine with my toes will win a soul to Jesus, I will do it." Brass
music was introduced in Army worship as a direct result of the Fry family's participation in
Salisbury during 1878. Charles Fry and three sons, seeing Missioners brutally tormented,
went to their rescue with brass music. Invited by Captain Arthur Watts, they became
members. Very soon, Booth heard them play and appropriatedthem as a musical experiment
to accompany him on a campaign. From that time, brass groups were employed, though
initially Booth deplored anything other than hymn tunes. The father, Charles Fry, was choir
and orchestra conductor at the local Methodist church at the time he met the Army and had
been solo cometist in the renowned Rifle Brigade band.
sBooth once declared with referenceto the Army's use ofseculartunes to which religious
"Why should the devil have all the best tunes?"
words were wedded:
6White-winged Messenger:Army's periodical, firstThe Christian Mission Magazine,later
to become a weekly entitled The War Cry.
The Salvation Army I 53
give complete obedience to The Salvation Army, following orders and
regulationswhich will soon be published' and will include prohibitions
against the use of drugs, strong drink, swearing, obscene books and
pictures. Manied officer coupleswill hold equal rank, and headquarters'
permission must be given for engagement,courtship, and marriage.
Orders and Regulationsfor The Salvation Army wlll also carry complete
instructionson how to attack, capture,and hold towns.
"Henceforth this 35th station shall be known as the Coventry Citadel
Corps. Its memberswill be termed soldiers, its leader the commanding
officeq whether male or female. Our goal has not changed.Jesushas not
changed. Sin, sicknessand sorrow have not changed. Sinnershave not
changed and converts have not changed. Best of all, victory has not
changed!We march to win the world for Jesus!"
CaptainReynoldsmentionedthat soldiersof the CoventryCorps would
now begin to pray and look for a properbuilding, rememberingthe distress
of the Coventry Fair in June.'
"Some of you will rememberwe'd plannedour attack well and knew the
Royal would be packed out as people were already having to be turned
away regularly. However, on the eve of the Fair the authoritiescondemned
it as unfit for public use, shuttingus out of any placenearlargeenough.We
were compelledeither to put up our plans or adapt.Then God steppedin
with a blessed thought-the traveling theatreefor the Whitsun Fair, and
never have I seensuch open-airmeetingsin my life. Hallelujahl"
She also announcedthat on September28-30 Generaland Mrs. William
Booth would pay their first visit to the Coventry Corps on the first leg of a
seven-weekcampaign,and she hoped, pleaseGod, they would havetheir
new building to be dedicated at that happy time.
"with
22 souls
The meetingwas concluded,as CaptainReynoldsput it,
slain in the Lord, many severely wounded." Both vanquished and
vanquishersboomed out the Salvation Army's first official song:'0
Comejoin our Army, to battlewe go;
Jesuswill help us to conquerthefoe;
Fightingfor right and opposingthe wrong,
TheSalvationArmy is marchingalong!
'18?&
tCoventry Fair: WeekJong traditional June festival, famous for hundreds of yean and
drawing crowds from throughout England and France.
nPageant(traveling stage): built for outdoor presentations,a two-sloried stage on wheels,
one level being used for a dressing room, the other for performances. Morality plays were
favorites.
r0Composed 1878 by William Pearson to the American melody, "Ring the Bell,
Watchman," which was written by Henry Clay Work.
54 / PREACHING LADIES
Beck's parentshad given her permissionto becomea soldierand sheand
Eliza were deep in discussionhomewardbound.
"Lizzie,
"The
isn't it a grandname?"
SalvationArmy," said Beck.
"First-rate.One day I'll be a soldiertoo."
"You think so? Even if your parentsagree,you might changeyour tune
when you readall thoseordersand regulations.I shan't mind but I'm platn
me."
"I could pass muster."
"But would you fit in? I mean with all your queer thoughts.And the
uniform'll probably be even uglier than Captain's."
Eliza said no more, and her parentsdidn't mention the matter. Flags,
drums, brasshorns. Obedience,frugality, simpltcity. Women corps commanders. Permissionfor courtship, engagement,marriage. Would they
requirepermissionto fall in love'l What on earthwould suchan army grow
into? The more sheconsideredthe matter,the less suitablesheseemedand
the dayssucceedingprovedstill more provocative.With renaming,crowds,
persecutionand resistancefrom authoritiesincreased.Coventry quickly
becamea disciplinedcorps intent upon confrontingand overpoweringthe
enemy. It drew fire from every quarter.Eliza was caught in still another
struggle-one betweenheart and head. By the time the 29th of August
arrived, she was in torment. Placardshad beenpostedfor weeks. In every
open-airand indoor meetingthe serieshad beenwell announced:lectures,
discussions,salvation,holiness and free-and-easymeetings.Open-air
meetingsin between.A love feastand trophy testimonials."Ten meetings
were scheduledfor the Sabbath.However,no one could have foreseenthe
crush of 5,000 expectant, curious people who jammed the Coventry
railway station for the arrival of General and Mrs. Booth. Cheers were
"God
deafening.Thousandsof banners,flags and Bibles filled the air.
"Hallelujah!" "Amen!" "Give 'em the
blessGeneraland Mrs. Boothl"
other barrel!" From the railway coach steppedthe much-cheered,oftenmalignedGeneralWilliam Booth of The SalvationArmy.
"Look at 'im, Lizziet" Beck was hoarsefrom cheering."I could follow
such a General forever."
Eliza was not so sure. One sight of him and she shrank-his presence
demandedmore than she wantedto give. He was extremelytall, linear and
sharp-boned,with gaunt,strainingfeatures,frowning white forehead,keen
gray eyesburning abovea large aquilinenoseand a bushyblack beard.He
wore a stovepipehat which exaggeratedhis height, and an invernesscape.
rrTrophyTestimonials:personal experiencesgiven publicly by converts who had previously lived lives of debauchery,chief among them beingjailbirds, gamblers'drunkardsof
long standing.etc.
The Salvation Army I 55
He was not smiling. Eliza decidedhe probably neverglancedat anybody.
His look seemedto penetrateeach of the 5,000. He acknowledgedthe
"This
much for good manners.Now
cheerswith a singlewave,as if to say,
let's get on with business."Then he assistedfrom the coach,as tenderlyas
a motherrobin, a slightly built, brown-hairedwoman about 5'6" in height,
refined in appearance,even timid. She was dressedmuch like Captain
Reynolds,very neatbut plain. A plain black strawbonnet,slightly relieved
by a pair ofdark violet strings,a plain black velvetjacketand a plain black
silk dress. She smiled and waved to the crowd, her tender glance
appreciatingthem all. She continuedsmiling and waving as the two were
led to the strangestchariot ever to accommodatea Generaland his lady."
Jimmy Docker would have it no other way and had talked down the
entire Coventry soldiery regarding a more traditional and comfortable
conveyance.
"and
"They
they must be safe,with me their
must be seen," he insisted,
driver. Our leadersmust have a chariot."
So the salvationchariot it was-Jimmy Docker's greengrocerywagonette, the owner himself holding the reins. Eliza heardhim commentas he
"Rascal,
dear General, sir, that's me.
was introduced to the Booths,
'ere to London
in t' ol' days. Savin' murder,up t'
Greatestscoundrelfrom
every crime in t' book." Then snappinghis heels, he gave the Generala
stiff salutewhich Booth returnedwith the utmost gravity.
They were followedby otficersfrom nearbycorpsand CaptainReynolds
with her new gentlemanassistant,Brother Irons. Then came the soldiers
flooding the road like a flock of sheep,singing and shouting.And finally,
hangers-on,the curious and the critical. They sang one song until they
reachedthe largesthall in town (or so it seemedto Salvationists),the new
Army building on FreethStreetwhich had once servedas a coachfactory.'3
lrRobert Sandall, The History of The Salvation Army, Vol. II, p. 20. Catherine, like
which were not appealingto
William. acceptedparticipationin many unusualdemonstrations
them but which they judged would encouragetheir soldiersand attract attention.Once she
allowed herselfto be drawn in a wheelchairat the headof a procession,commentingdryly of
this: "Practical Christianity indeed. I was a gazing stock. . . I felt a linle of the meaning of
P a u l ' sg l o r y i n g i n t h e C r o s s .. . "
'rCoventry,England, Corps History. The Chrtstian Mission Magozine, Oct. 1878: "The
Factory.by the way. is the most wonderfulpieceofproperty we haveeveracquired.There are
seatslor over 1,200on the main floor where the meetingsare held and room to seat 1.500at
least. The floor below containsan evangelist'shome and a number of rooms where a whole
schoolofprophets might live. The main portion ofthe basementis a room where 400 people
at a time can comtbrtably sit down to tea, besidesabundantstorageroom in other cellars.
There is a garden.a yard. a tall chimney (our first spire. by the way) and, in short, one of the
completestand largestbuildings for our use we ever got-all at a cost of 660 or thereabouts,
freehold. lf it was the devil who maneuveredus out of the theatre in Coventrv. he made a
d r e a d i ub
l lunder..."
56 / PREACHING LADIES
The chorusof the song was:
So we'll roll theold chariotalong,
So we'll roll theold chariotalong,
So we'll roll the old chariotaktng,
And we won'tdrag on behind!
"If the sinner'sin the way we will stop and pick him
Stanzasincluded,
"gamblers," "drunkards," "cockup," followed by a successionof
fighters," "wife beaters"etc. until the final stanza:
lf the devil'sin the way,
Weshall roll right overhim,
And we won't drag on behind!
Seeingsuch a display of Salvationistsstrongly affectedEliza and Beck.
The Salvationistswore a greatvarietyof uniforms, often with embroidered
mottoesor questionson breastor back. Many wore badgesand ribbons
with THE SALVATION ARMY on them. The men wore patrol caps,
helmets, stovepipes-all trimmed by a red ribbon.
"Lizzie, think I shall burstl" cried Beck, amid the crush of people
I
"When we looked at those preaching
attemptingto squeezeinto the hall.
lady posters, we never guessedthe Hallelujahswould come to this, did
we'J"
Eliza agreed.Neverhad therebeensucha churchas this. Never so many
so activeand eager.Never so many so loud, so long. And nevera joy like
the Hallelujahs!
Shecould seeCaptainReynoldson stageconversingwith Army leaders,
motioning for alignment and realignment of forms for the soldiers,
straight-backeduncushionedarmchairsfor Generaland Mrs. Booth, and a
table for speaking.'oA brassband was warming up. There was a crashing
chord, then Captain ReynoldsintroducedGeorgeScott Railton,'5a short,
slender,intense-lookingman with a soldier'sbearing.Pilot of the meeting,
"Soldiers and friends of The Salvation
he now greeted Coventryites:
Army-and others presentwho may not be so cordial." He waved and
"This historicweekendit is
smiledtowardthe top balcony,his voice rising.
the purposeof Generaland Mrs. Booth to indelibly mark Coventryfor the
Kingdom of Jesus."
A rolling roaq boot stompingand clapping.
-l"fuUtJpluin
four-legged table used by pioneer Salvationistswhen speaking in public, rn
substitutionfor a pulpit, which seemedtoo formal.
'5GeorgeScon Railton: a highly qualified. eccentricyoung Methodistminister who joined
the Mission in 1874,captivatedby the annualreport. Intellectual,speakingseverallanguages,
with Bramwell he was the Booths' chief aide in pioneerdays, later to becomeinternational
travelingcommissioner.He was vivid, intense,self-sacrificing.
The Salvation Army I 57
"and pour
us stand," Railton said,
out our hearts in that
magnificenthymn of the centuries,pennedby my favoritecomposer,St.
Francisof Assisi, 'All Creaturesof Our God and King"':
"Let
All creatures
of our God andKing,
Lift up yourvoiceandwith us sing
A I l e l u i aA. I I e l u i a !
Thouburningsunwith goldenbeam,
Thou silvermoonwith softergleam:
O praiseHim, O praiseHim,
Alleluia, Alleluia,Alleluia!
Let all thingstheirCreatorbless,
And worshipHim in humbleness,
O praiseHim, Alleluia!
Praise,praisethe Father,praisethe Son,
And praisethe Spirit,threein one.
The song and prayer over, Railton introducedguestson the platform who
bowed and waved pocket handkerchieves.He then announced: "The
Generalof The SalvationArmy and Mrs. Booth!"
It was easily five full minutesbeforethe ovationwas done, during which
more than a few ill-motived rapscallionsin the upper balcony dumped a
flurry of feathers, flour and garbage on the heads of the unfortunate
worshipers.But not a soul left.'u
On this Saturdayevening,the verbalentreewas to be a lectureby Mrs.
CatherineBooth regardinga major British concern-women's place in the
public eye, especiallybehind the pulpit. To those who had never heard
CatherineBooth and expectedthe usual quaveringfeminine pronouncement or worse, an embitteredand scathingattackon masculinity,shewas a
shock. Calm, preciseand clear,informal, her expressionwas so strong, so
'oCoventry,England, Corps History in The Christian Mission Magazine, 1878. Mr. R. C.
"It was worth traveling to
Morgan, editor, wrote:
Coventry and back, to see 5,000 people
'We'll roll
the old chariot along.' It was worth the
march and hear them roll out the chorus:
joumey to hearthosetwo words: 'Jacksonknows,' spokenwherethey were, and the man who
uttered them. It was at an open-air meeting, in the midst of a circle of five thousand.The
speakerwas a reclaimeddrunkard,a burly thickset,determinedJohn Bull of the grossersort.
If you met him in the streetyou would think he was on his way to a boxing saloon.He told of
his past and his present;of six months ago and now; of his yearsof sin and months of grace; of
what he had sufferedof the devil and what Jesus,throughsuffering,had done for him, and he
c r i e d . ' J a c k s o nk n o w s " '
"When
the Church can put forward those of the John the Baptist sort, who speak that they
do know and testify that they have seen, the clandestine trade in secondhandor spurious
sermonswill be a supersededsin. This work at Coventryis being canied on by The Christian
Mission, or The Salvation Army. This is one of the most remarkable evangelistic movements
of this century,and it seemsto us that God, taking compassionon the multitudes,who are like
sheephaving no shepherd,is about, on a large scale,to solvethe problem, how to evangelize
."
the workins classes.This Armv is shakins other towns.
58 / PREACHING LADIES
intensethat it was mesmeric,holding the attentionevenof the top balcony.
Nor did her listenersguess she was subtly drawing them forward to a
sensitive exploration of the deepsof the human spirit. She worked on the
poor like a poultice, drawing weaknessand sins to broad daylight; she
which often
to self-examination
provokedthe educatedand secular-minded
resulted in earnestcommitment to God.
Referringto female church leadership,she began:
"Dear friends, it is with anticipationthat I seek to answer questions
continually being raised regarding the Scriptural foundation for women
preaching,praying and administratingin the Christian Church, of which
The SalvationArmy considersitself to be the militant wing"' She paused,
considering her audience, particularly noting members of the visiting
London press.
"Before I was married, my beloved intended declaredhe believed in the
perfect equality of women, but that to concede she is man's equal or
capableof becomingman'sequalin intellectualattainmentsor prowesswas
contradictedby his experienceand honestconvictions'"
"No! Nol"
There was a wave of applause,shoutsof
"Further, he said he would not stop a womanpreachingbut he would not
encourageone to begin. He said I should preachif everl felt equal to the
task, but he should not like it. He did say that perhaps his views, as I
believedthem to be, were the result of prejudice.I remembervividly that
'I
he also said, am for the world's salvation,and shall quarrel with no
meansthat promise to help.' I thank God he has proved a man of his word"With the birth of our fourth child, Emma, in 1860, though frail in
health, I was impressedof the Spirit to speakpublicly-and after an inner
struggle, did, much to the surprise of my husband.'' This was during my
husband'spreachingmissionto Bethseda.On the Sabbatheveningafter my
victory over seli Mr. Booth requested that I take the message in the
evening service whilst he continued home with the children."
Her audiencenow leanedforward as one, many watching for a changein
the expressionof General Booth. There was none.
"I do not mean that a woman should forsakeher home. The Booths now
haveeight children, one in ill healthbecauseofan accident.It is a houseful
to be sure, with pets, busy minds, activebodiesand zestful imaginations.
-'tprs&rick
de Lautour Booth-Tucker,The Life of Catherine Booth, pp. 184,185. Catherine
sat near the back of the chapel, listening to.William, when she felt she should speak but could
"Besides you are not
not. It seemed that Satan was speaking directly to her, taunting,
"Ah,
this is just the point,"
prepared. You will look like a fool and will have nothing to say."
"I
have never yet been willing to be a fool for Christ. Now I will be one."
thought Catherine,
"What is the matter my
Down the aisle she went. William thought that something was wrong.
"I
word."
want
to
say
a
dear?"
The Salvation Army I 59
Someask how we can manage.I reply that we do what we chooseto do, all
of us. And whom God calls He equips.Womenmust havea gatewayto the
pulpit-secured at whateverthe cost."
Much applause.Some boos.
"Recently, there have been crises in some Mission stations-some
financial, some administrative.My husbandwas in a quandary.Then, an
experimentof 1875, in which Sister Annie Davis was sent in charge of
Barking, was happily reviewed,and a greatcloud of femalepreacherswas
sent flying over England, one being your fair Captain Carrie Reynolds."
Clapping, stamping and cheers didn't cease until Captain Reynolds
stood for a bow and a wave of her pocket handkerchief.
"For more than six monthsyou've witnessed
living proof of the efficacy
of women's ministry. In this meeting there are a throng of the redeemed
who praise God for Carrie Reynoldsand Honor Burrell, who now serves
elsewhere.What has beenachievedby theselassescan only be regardedas
miraculous.They came to town without a friend, without an introduction
and with hardly a copper in their purses. They had to provide for and
maintainservicesevery night. They had to raisefundsto pay rent, meetthe
gas bill, repair broken windows and broken forms and providethemselves
with food and lodging. They did it."
Another sustainedcheer.
"I
wonder,dearfriends,what you know ofthe countlessdinnersofbread
and cheese,wrestling in prayer for boots, of empty rooms in which they
lived behind newspaperblinds. These battles in which the first of our
glorious host have had to drag women's right to conquer are just the
beginningof a world crusadein which both men and women will captain
God's hosts."
At that, the audience rose to its feet in proclamation of Captain
Reynolds,and William Booth, calling her besidehis wife, stood with his
armsaboutthe two. When the outbursthad subsided,he said, "My dears,"
"and
then turning to the audience,
all my dears,we standbeforeyou united
in declarationthat The SalvationArmy fully recognizesthe work of women
in administrativeand preachingappointments.It has been forcibly stated
that female preacherswould be the ruin of the Army, and we have forfeited
some financial support from prominent personsbecauseof our stand.
However, on the contrary, where women are allowed fullest opportunity,
progress is the greatestfor the Kingdom of God."
He sat down and Catherine proceeded.
"We must
not confuse nature with custom. Use. or custom. makes
things appear natural. There is nothing either unnatural or immodest in a
Christian woman, becomingly attired, appearing on a platform or in a
60 / PREACHING LADIES
pulpit. By naturesheseemsto graceeither.The want of mentalculture,the
trammelsof custom, the force of prejudiceand one-sidedinterpretationof
Scripturehavehitherto almostexcludedher from this sphere.Why should
'In Christ Jesusthere is
she be confined to the kitchen and the distaff?
neitherbond nor free, male nor female, but ye are all one in Christ Jesus.'
"After
being repressedand buried for centuriesbeneatha couple of
misquoted Pauline texts, woman, like Lazarus of old, has heard the voice
of her Saviour bidding her come forth, and great will be the company of
women warriors, Hallelujah lasses,who will go forth to preach.
"ConsideringScripturalbasisfor prohibition:if we studyCorinthians,in
the most quoted statementsused against woman speakingfor God, the
reader will see that it was directed to the edification, exhortation and
comfort of believers and the result anticipatedwas the conviction of
unbelieversand unlearnedpersons.
"Whatever may be the meaningof prayingand prophesyingin respectto
man, they have precisely the same meaning in respectto woman-that
some speakto othersto edification, exhortationand comfort.
"The questionwith the Corinthianswas not whetherwomen shouldpray
or prophesyat all; that questionhad been settledon the day of Pentecost;
but whether, as a matter of convenience,they might do so without their
veils.
"As
to the obligation devolving on woman to labor for her Master, I
presumethere will be no controversy.The particularspherein which each
individual shall do rhis must be dictatedby the teachingsof the Holy Spirit
and the gifts with which God has endowedher. There is not a single word
in the whole book of God to restrain her, but many, many to urge and
encourageher.
"Considering further Scripturalbasis for prohibition, I direct inquirers
and clarke's commenton the two first:
to readthe threefollowing passages
Exo<lusl5th chapter,20-22ndverses;Judgesfirst chapter,from the fourth
verseand 2nd Chronicles,34th chapter,from the 2lst verse.
"In
the firit, Clarke says the same word in the original is used in
referenceto Moses and the other prophets,and thereforeMiriam was as
truly inspired;and that she was chosenand constitutedjoint leaderof the
people,we havethe expressword of God for it by Micah' 6th chapter,4th
'For I brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and I sent before thee
verse:
Moses, Aaron and Miriam.'
"On the latter, Clarke saysthat Deborah seemsto have been supremeas
'She
well in civil mattersas in spiritual.
iudged Israel'-the sameterm as
is usedto denotethe function of the regularjudges-she appointedBarak
as generalof the armies, as well as declaredGod's will to him and Barak
most unhesitatinglyrecognizedher authority.But readcarefully the whole
The Salvation Army I 6l
account,as also that in the 34th chapterof 2nd Chronicles,and seewhether
in any respectyou can discoverany differencebetweenthe exerciseof the
propheticpower, or the recognitionof its reality and force, in thesecases
and those of Isaiah or Jeremiah.
"It
is worthy of remark that there are no less than six prophetesses
mentionedin the Old Testament,one of whom was unquestionablyjudge
as well as prophet.Theseare not mentionedin a way which would leadone
to suppose that the inspired writer regarded them as anything very
extraordinary.They are simply introduced to our notice like the other
prophets.
"Time forbids
investigatingfurther. I do believethat woman is destined
to assumeher true position and exert her proper influenceby the special
exertionsand attainmentsof her sex. The heavingof societyin America,'t
the birthplaceof so much that is greatand noble, thoughthrowing up, as all
such movementsdo, much that is absurd and extravagant,yet shows
principles are working and enquiriesawakening.May the Lord, even the
just and impartial One, ovemrle all fbr the true emancipationof women
from the swaddlingbandsof prejudice,ignoranceand custom which have
so long debasedand wronged her.'n
"One
of the greatestboonsto our race would be women'sexaltationto
her proper position mentally and spiritually.'o Who can tell its consequencesto posterity?If what writers on physiology say be true, and
experienceseemsto render it unquestionable,what must be the effectsof
neglectof mentalculture, and the inculcationof frivolous, servileand selfdegradingnotions into the minds of the mothersof humanity?Oh, what
endearsthe Christianreligion to my heart is what Christ has done, and is
destinedto do for my own sex-and what excitesmy indignationbeyond
anything else is to hear its sacred precepts dragged forward to favor
degrading arguments."
She then turned to GeneralBooth and indicateda door to her right. As
the band struckup, a sergeantmarchedto centerstagecarrying a large flag
of red, yellow and blue, standingat attentionbesideMrs. Booth. She lifted
a comer.
"The
crimson in this flag representsthe preciousblood by which we are
redeemed.The blue is God's chosenemblemof purity. The sun represents
both light and heat, the Light and Life of men. And the motto, 'Blood and
'sSuffragettesand Women's Christian Temperance
Union women were much in the news,
using both reason, demonstration and sensationto put their cause before the public.
''Catherine'spamphlet entitled, Female Ministry,
caused a stir and is still available;
publishedby The SalvationArmy, USA EasternTerritory,145West l5th Street,NYC, 10011.
20InSeptember, 1878, the Amry had
9l officers, 4l of whom were women.
62 / PREACHING LADIES
Fire,'the blood of the Lamb and the fire of the Holy Ghost. This flag is a
symbol, first of our devotionto our greatCaptainin Heavenand to the great
purpose for which He came down and shed His blood that He might
redeemmen and women from sin and deathand hell. Secondly,this flag is
emblematicalof our faithfulness.May God help us to be faithful-faithful
to conscience,to principles. This flag is the emblem of victory. But by
what power is this victory to be achieved?By fire! The Holy Ghost. The
time of fire has come.
"All other agentshave been tried: intellect, learning, fine buildings,
wealth, respectability,numbers.The great men, the mighty men and the
learnedmen haveall tried to castout thesedevils and havefailed. We must
try the fire of the Holy Spirit!"
She beckoned Captain Reynolds and said, handing her the flag,
"Captain
Caroline Reynolds,''I presentto you this blood-and-fireflag for
our 35th corps, Coventry,England.""
Quite overwhelmed,the Shirleyswalked home in meditativesilencethat
night and on the Sabbathworshipedin the crowd of 5,000 which sharedin
meetings that concluded with one of the most remarkable and frightening
experiencesever witnessed by many who attended. The huge crowd
seemed tired but still expectant in the evening when, after musical
preliminaries, testimonies and Scripture reading, General Booth arose. He
looked down at his audience,scowling.
"War is at hand!" he barked,"and The SalvationArmy was born for the
heat of the battle. We must march acrossthe wastelandsof the world. rHe
sALVArroNARMv. What a strangenamel What does it mean?What can it
possibly mean in a meeting which is centeredon the sinking souls of
mankind?sALvArIoN.Nothing more and nothing less. It is the only army
that convertsprisoners-of-warinto exemplaryfighters. It is the only army
that is nonviolent. It is the only army which useslove as its weapon.
"When Jehovahfinished the work of creation, He turned from the new
earth to the new Adam and gave him the commissionto mulitply and
increaseand subdueand governit, so that it shouldbecomea happy home
for him and his posterity,and bring honor and glory to its Creator.Adam
failed in his mission. Instead of Adam subduing the earth, the earth
subduedAdam, and he and all his family went ofTinto diabolicalrebellion.
"But God still claimedHis own, and a secondtime appeared,this time
to redeem by sacrifice the world He had before created.When He had
-'Cou"*.y,
England, Corps History, it The Christian Mission Magazine' 1878- Mrs"Captain."
Reynolds reported she was the first Salvationist ever termed
22Robert Sandall, The History ofThe Salvation Army, Yol. II. p. 4' The first Salvation
Armv flas.
The Salvation Army I 63
finished the work, He turned to His disciple the spiritual Adam and gave
him a commissionsimilar to that given to the first Adam, to go and disciple
all nations (Matthew 28:19).
"Again, it
is as at the first: overcome,conquet subdue. Not merely
teach, but persuade,compel all nationsto becomedisciplesof the Son of
God. This is the idea which originatedand developedand fashionedthe
Army in the past and which dominatesand propels it today.
"Does this
sound strange,my brother-not sacred,not ecclesiastical,
not according to the tradition of the elders, not after the pattem of existing
institutions?It may be new but it is nonetheless
Scripturaland nonetheless
of divine origin.
"Let us look at The
SalvationArmy. What is this work we havein hand?
To subduea rebelliousworld to God-and what is the questionto which
many anxiously desirean answer?"
He then describedconditionsfor winning the world to God. The Army
must move "in combination" as one arrny with one plan; in division is
weakness,in unity, strength.There must be onenessof direction, in the
training of soldiers.in actualservice.There must be no claypipe soldiers.
As in all armies there must be selectionfor duties. And there must be
obedience.Implicit obedience."If a desiredcourseof action be taken on
its recommendingitself to the judgment, the leadings,the impulses, the
feelingsof eachindividual, therewill be nothingexceptconfusion,defeat,
and destruction. There must be stiff discipline. Those who keep the
commandmentsand who excel in servicemust be regardedand thosewho
are disobedientmust be punished.Expelled."
He further stated that nothing so demoralizessoldiers as inactivity.
"Idleness,"
"is
he said,
the Devil's own opportunity.Pushforward, never
heed the number or position of your foes. Your SalvationArmy has been
raisedto accomplishthe impossible.Now, you must marchforwardl If you
will only go forward, and go forward on the lines here indicated,you will
go forward to fulfill the commissionof your divine Captain,the discipling
of all nations, the subjugationand conquestof the world."
He pausedto pacethe platform, long arms locked behind his back. The
audiencewatchedhim tensely,breathingwith his steps.He swervedback.
Leaning forward on his speakingtable he said confidingly, "Let me put it
this way: The little town of Whitby was startledone morning by a telegram
that in a very few minutes had agitated nearly every citizen in town.
Howling waves and roaring seas had kept the town pretty well awake
through the early hours of that stormy day but now it was altogetherso.
"Six
miles along the southcoast,just off Robin Hood's Bay, a ship had
been blown on the rocks, and her crew of six men had been compelledto
64 / PREACHING LADTES
take refuge in the long boat. To reachthe shorein that seawas impossible
so they had thrown out the anchor, and, with the seasbreaking over them
all, benumbedwith cold, and ready to perish, they waited for deliverance
or death-spied by some watcherson the shore who, unable to help,
telegraphedthe calamity to the men of Whitby.
"Now, the Whitby men were men with heartsof flesh. What could they
do to get thesesix fellows out of a boiling sea?They had only one life boat,
though Robin Hood's Bay had none. Whitby was six miles away, and to
take to sea in that gale was impossible.
"'We cannot bring our boat by sea but we'll bring her by land,' they
messaged.Hurrah for the men of Whitby and all other men of the same
stuff. If you cannot go to the rescue one way go another!
"Ice and snow everywhere-six feet deep.But at it they went. Picks and
shovels,horsesand ropes, and sailor and fishermanand farmer, and all
sorts of men lent a hand and the Robin Hood's Bay men met the Whitby
men. The road was clearedand that ponderousboat draggedup hills and
down hills until the bay was reached.Out there,throughthe drifting sleet,
the objectof their toil was seen.Now, anotherpull and with a ringing cheer
they pushedtheir boat into the boiling surf and bent themselvesto the oars
to reach the drowning men.
"Now, my comrades, I am speaking to you and to all other servants
whose businessis to rescueshipwreckedsouls:can you not leam a lesson
from the children ofthis generationlPerishingsoulsare beforeyour eyes.
But they can't be rescued without trouble-without risk and labor and
travail and expense.Will you pay the price?
"Oh, my comrades,pull away! The oars may break. If your right-hand
oarsmanruns, never heed. Get a fresh supply and go on. It will be a
struggle,but cheerup! Calvary'sRoyal Princeis your example,and angels
look on from Heaven'soverhangingshoreswith wonder and admiration.
Now, anotherpull. There, let her go. Now, easeher. Now let her have it.
There you are. Thke hold of that backslider. There, help that infidel on
board. Hold now for that poor drunkard. Have you got him? Now, thank
God for that wretched harlot. Here, give a hand to the prodigal. Another
and another and another.Hallelujah! Full are you? Back then to shore and
such shouting and welcome! Now, out for another boatload.
"Oh, it is hard work and exhausting,is this rescuing of men and women
from the yawning waves of temporal and eternal destruction, and the
the
landingof them in safetyat the Redeemer'sfeet. But it is, nevertheless,
of
powers
of
any
most glorious and divine employment that can engagethe
the inhabitants of God's universe."
He leaned far forward, raised both arms in entreaty.
The Salvation Army I 65
"Oh,
beloved,if you are not securedfor heaventhen get the deeddone!
Join the men of Whitby! You canbe a braverescuerin the King's lifesaving
forces.Meet Him herel"
He indicated the penitent-form, stretchedthe width of the auditorium in
front of the platform, and it was as if he were swinging wide the gate of
eternity. There was a mighty rush forward. In all mannerof postureand
passagethey came-slow and speedy,headsup and headsdown, weeping
and laughing.A few wailing. Though the audiencewas instructedto sing a
prayerchorus, "I needThee," in a whisper,the cumulativeeffect of 5,000
personsin a whisper of soft melody made an oceanicroll.
Young Bramwell took his father'splace at the table, gently acknowledging the presenceof Jesus.Suddenlyone of the seekersshouted,"Glory!"
Jumping to his feet, his round face shining, he began a little dance.
"Glory!
Glory!"
Bramwell quietly askedif he would like a word.
"Not
a religiousman. Been a renegadefor thirty odd year.But now I'm
free of me! Thank you-you and God! Now to make restitution." He
dashedup the aisle waving his cap and was gone.
Someonebegan to sing the chorus, "Glory! Glory! Jesussavesme!"
and the handclapping, raised arms and hallelujahs rose to cyclonic
proportions. People began to testify at the front, rear and all about the
auditorium. They danced, cried, shouted.There were sobs, groans and
prayers. Some looked on with objective curiosity, others with apprehension. The press filled pad after pad. But nobody left. Booth frowned
slightly, but he did not stop the meeting.
"Don't
be alarmed,friends," Bramwell counseled."God is here. Yes,
there is emotion, and perhapssome lack of restraint,some exaggeration,
but all is well. God is on hand."
"Saves
me nowl" sangthe multitude. "Jesus savesme now!"
As one wave of seekersrose from the forms, another took their places.
Many more dropped to their kneesat the bencheson which they sat or knelt
in the aisles. On-the penitent-formsome laid pipes, earrings, brooches,
necklaces,Albert chains,watches,tobaccopouches,snuffboxes, whiskey
bottles, knives. One man shouted, "I've got it! O bless God!" Another
young woman, after having walked to the form, shook her head and
moaned,"Too much. Too much. I can't tonight!" And another,"I believe!
I believel"
A little later, General Booth got up from his kneesto stand with his arm
about Bramwell's shoulders.
"Friends,"
"don't
he said,
be afraid or impatient.lrt us neverbe afraid
ofour own tears,or the heartexpressions
ofothers. As a youngcampaigner
66 / PREACHING LADIES
some years ago, I was conducting revival servicesin Leeds, when one
Sabbatheveninga little old lady got so happythat as we sangshebeganto
bob up and down. Every time she went up she clapped her hands and
"Gloryl" I was fearfulof displayand of the criticismof othersso
shouted,
I had her removed.The meetingwas quiet enoughafter that for the Spirit
had fled. Dead indeedwas the meeting. It was a great lessonto me. God
will give His leaderswisdom. Do not be afraid."" He sat down.
Therewas more singingand praying, then one spry old fellow looked up
"l
at Bramwelland said, feel I mustjump."
"Then jump."
He jumped.
On went the meeting, with hundredsupon hundredssinging, crying,
laughing,shouting,jumping, dancingtill upwardsof 70 rose from the
penitent-formtestifying to unutterablejoy until the last amen.
Once at home Eliza collapsedinto uncontrollablesobbing.
"Lizziet" Amos put his arms around her. "Darlin' child."
"Papa, don't know what to think or feel. I'm completelyundone."
I
"Love," said Annie, putting on the teakettle,"such an experienceis
overwhelming to most and can be repulsive, even shattering.But later
you'll know that heatmakesthe stillestwater boil and if there'sa lid on it,
can pop the kettle."
Amos smoothedback her fringe of bangs.
"There
may have been exaggerationand some simple folk overcome,
but I believewe'll find the working of God's Spirit tonight was genuine' I
know many of the strong men who surrendered.They don't play at
anything-least of all, religion.""
:rBiographerHarold Begbie once remarkedto Bramwell of "the risk that lies in all such
fervor ai we find expressedin reportsof this character,that enthusiasmis a highly dangerous
"Not if you organize it." This was William Booth's
thing." Bramwell made answer,
philosophy.A practicalChristian always, Booth had no time to discussdoctrine that did not
"Go
and do something."
iead to purposefulaction and would interruptsuch questionerswith,
raSpiritualManifestation.There are numbersof incidents in SalvationArmy recordsof
when seekersand celebrantswere
healings,and ofunusual and demonstrativemanif'estations
"Praying John." a navvy fiom Hastings,recordedRailton in'[w'ent'--One
spiritually moved.
" t h o r o u g h l ys e n s i b l e s, h r e w do l d c o u n t r y m a nw h o c o u l d
Y e a r s ,S a l v a t i o nA r m t . . . , w a s a
deal in a commonsensemanner with almost any subject that came before the Mission
conference.As a lay member he gave hints that were of great practical value." At the
"he would go up and up, his body
conclusion of a contribution by this saintly old man,
sympathizingwith his soul. The evangelistof his stationand his t-ellowdelegateswould be
seenholding onto his coat on both sides,to preventhis jumping, an attemptthat sometimes
succeededbut generally ended in landing him on the floor. When the glorious old man
'I
suddenlywent to Heaven.exclaiming, be savedand I be happy.Let me gol' the conference
l o s t o n e o f i t s b r i g h t e s t. . . d e l e g a t e s . "
The Salvation Army I 67
"Then what
is it all about?It was frightening."
"There's
somethingcalled divine discontent,Pet, an inner yearningfor
God and spiritualhomeness.Unlesswe find this King's palaceof the heart,
we are foreveruneasy,perhapsnot disconsolatebut not secure,not quite at
home. Anxious, fretful, lackingpeace.Augustinesaid, 'Thou hastmade
us fbr Thyself, thereforewe may not rest anywheresavein Thee.' That's
what tonight was about. Generaland Mrs. Booth and many anotheron that
platform live in that precioushiding place so whateverthey say is powered
by its atmosphere.
They couldcall out your name,Lizzie, and you'd know
of this place.Someof thosedearfolk tonight were so affectedby the joyful
set-upand the presenceof God's Spirit they gave way-some for the first
time in their lives. Manifesting true feelingsinsteadof false. The release
bringsa senseof relief, of cleanness,
opennessand lightness.Most of us
shy from such actions. We cling to our pride and dignity-our selfrightness.We dare not dancenor leap nor bouncenor bubblejust because
the day is bright or the rose fragrant, the dog's tail wagging or a precious
one gives us a look of love."
"I
believe you, Papa." Eliza sat rocking back and forth on the floor,
removing bonnet and gloves. "Maybe my pride makes me want to
disapprove.I'm torn. Tonight was both prison and paradise,as if I can't
leavethe light that is breakingbut fear to follow it."
Annie urged them to the kitchen table, butteredsome scones,poured
tea.
"lt wasn'tjust
the emotionthat disturbedyou, was it?" Amos said.
"No.
lt was the Booths'presence
as you said.It was seeingthe glow on
Jimmy and Katie'sfaces,and Beck'seasyacceptance
of everything.It was
not just the untamiliarmusic but what challengesit picturedto me-a
demandfor action.Even more. My will. As if something,someone,was
orderingme to give up my own self. And I can't."
"Then,
Sweet," said Annie, "you must simply wait for divine
guidance."
, The pressureon Eliza's spirit was intensified a month later, two days
after her birthdaycelebrationon October9, when the old drummer,Samuel
Harrow, died from long illness and injuries he'd received in open-air
combat. Captain Reynoldsconductedthe funeral, the announcement
of
which "spreadlike wildfire" throughtown. This noveltyattractedthousandsof spectators
expectingthe law to intervene,which it did not, perhaps
fearing a riot, or Jimmy Docker's damagingtestimony.The funeral was
used as a tool to win sinking souls, said CaptainReynolds,and at the
memorialservicethe following Sabbath,she addressed
a packedhouse,
while BrotherIrons and BrotherHarristalkedto 1,200outside.All spoke
68 / PREACHING LADIES
"laying down his weaponsof warfareand being promoted
of Soldier Sam
to Glory."'s
"sergeant Sam was ready," explainedCaptainReynolds."Oh, he was
'Sam,
shall I tell them that when your feet were in
ready.I said at the last,
'Better! Better!'he said. 'And
the cold river you found Jesusas good'?'
'Tell them, oh tell them,' he said.
shall I tell them betterthan His Word?'
'Give
my love to the brethren.I shall see you all again in the morning.
'Jesus, my Saviour.'
Triumphant!Triumphantl' His last words were,
Samhadbeena fighting,licentiousblackguard,a child
Beloveds,Sergeant
'Jesus'
of hell. Now he standsfearlessto tell his love, to say and mean it,
my Saviour."'
At Christmastide,the soldierswereadvisedto take in a poor family, visit
the needywith fruitcakes,mincepies,plum puddings,or all three,and on
ChristmasEve hundredsof the faithful caroledbehindthe lamplighter,thus
"The LamplighterBrigade'"
as
establishingthemselves
Then, without preliminary notice, early in February,1879, Captain
Reynoldsreceivedfhrewell orders, followed by marching orders a week
later to proceedto Nottingham and open fire in General Booth's hometown. She consoledher soldiersand friends with the assurancethat God
for God had
was in commandand they'd be delightedwith her successors,
provided fbr them none other than the blessedbest-Captain and Mrs.
Elijuh Cadman.
"Dear comradesand friends, God has led us all during my stay in
Coventry, and a glorious corps will march forward in this heroic and
historic city. I believe that out of our pioneer #35 will be raised many a
salvationsoldier and officer. We must not shirkl We must not run away
from the battle'ssmokebut march tbrward. I haveloved you as I have led
you, but now it's farewell orders. Tonight as I standunder the blood-andfire flag, I plead with you to commit your lives altogetherto God' to march
forwarclin the all-conqueringname of Jesus."
A half dozen soldiers joined the captain for a prayer of dedication.
Among them was Beck, who had decidedto go to Nottingham with the
captaln.
"I shan't be going as an
Eliza wept as she watched.Beck had told her,
officer. Too young, and maybe I'll never qualify for command. But I can
help, and Ma and Pa'swillin'! How I'll miss you, dearLizzie."
-r.pro*ot"d
to Glory: Salvation Army term used to denote the death of an Army member.
Traditionally, Army funerals are triumphant serviceswith flags posted at either end of the
casket,an honor guardand white satinribbonson flags and mourners'arms, the entire service
used as a Christian witnessto draw those attendinginto God's Kingdom.
The Salvation Army I 69
Eliza had hugged her, weeping.
Lizzie, you won't forgetme?"
"Neverl"
"We'll write. We'll always write.
That flag was taking her bestfiiend and her captain.What next'l Should
she too be going to Nottingham'lDid shefear the new captain'lIt was said
he balked at nothing for the sake of the Kingdom. Would he prove too
stouthearted?
If Captain Reynolds had opened fire on Coventry, certainly Captain
Cadmantook the iielclwith highly calculatedstrategy.He was an amazlng
faith.He marched
little man with boundlessimaginationand a lighthearted
vigorously,
his
colps
and experimented
rapidly,
conducted
rapidly,spoke
hirn a major
that
many
considered
tornadic
energy
with
such
with ideas
being town
tbrce
of
anti-Cadmanites
largest
organized
menace, the
was a
wasn't
before
there
with
publicans.
It
long
aligned
councilmen
woman
comreserve
with
a
There
been
some
had
serious encounter.
loss
of
due
to
Salvation
publicans,
by
business
incensed
but
now,
mander,
Army effurts, paid low hooligansmoney or whiskey or both to drive the
brutally
Army out of town. Tbughsheld mock meetingsand processioned,
attackingthe open-air rings, a major disturbanceensuing. The town
council madethis an excusefor demandingthe abandonmentof the Army's
work in the open air and draggedElijah beforethe magistrate.
"I will happily rein in the soldiers,"Elr.lahtestified,"but can't cease
to 14 daysimprisonment,but while
open-airservices."He was sentenced
on the railway stationplatform enrouteunderguard to Warwick gaol, was
ofpolice suggestedto a sympathizerthat he
released,as the superintendent
"a devilishriot being feared."
pay Cadman'sfine,
Singing in the streetswas forbidden, however.The next Sabbath,to
"scouts," two by two, to walk
counterthis mandate,Cadmansentout 12
the streetstal.kingsalvation.On Monday morning the police were after
him.
"Captain," the summoningconstableremarked,"folks sayyour talkin'
scouts are worse than your singin' soldiers. Can't go on. What're you
p l a n n i n 't ' d o ? "
"I'm going follow t' example
"Next
t'
Sabbath," said the little captain,
send
70."
out
of me Masteran'
"We think
The next week this commentappearedin an areapublication:
the authoritieshave their match in the captainin Coventry."
Free speechwas it? Well, on that one he'd follow his dependablenoseif
it led to a noose.That wasElijah. Among Cadman'smanycapabilitieswas
"The
that of recruiter.To the Shirlevs he insisted, straightfrom cornbat,
70 / PREACHING LADIES
war is now! This enemydon' hold 'is fire till the saintsare ruggedenough
or holy enough.You can't wait longer t' enlist. Battlelinesare drawn. God
has called you into t' ranks. You must enlist!"
Enlist they did, all three becoming soldiersin less than a month after
Cadman's arrival. His faith-fashioneddetermination,industry and daredeviltry helped increasecrowds and multiply converts.They also intensified resistance.Elijah counteredwith still more daring experimentsand
concentrationon holy living. His Sabbathholinessmeetingswere powerhousesto the consecratedand magnetsto the unredeemed.
Early in March Eliza pondered and prayed over the matter of the
dedicatedwill and decidedshe could standthe tensionno longer.Also, a
messagein a letter from Beck in Nottinghambeat on her like an insistent
drumstick:
DarlingLizzie,
I love you so but hardlyhavetime for writing, as we've beenso
busy sinceaniving.I can only think sleep.CaptainR. hasfor her
ElizaHaynes,who'sbeenquitea hellionin herday.Together
leftenant
we madegreatposters,tookthe hugeMechanics'
Hall for meetings
and marched.But nobodyseemedto care, few followed.Seven
meetlngs.
Then said Captain to Leftenant, who knows the streetswell, "What
"We
must go to our knees," and we did
shall we do?" and Leffy says,
"lt
it-to our kneesall night. Next moming, saysLeffy,
come to me
"How?"
we got to havea live poster," and Cap says,
and Leffy says,
"Me."
"Happy Eliza"
So she put
with pen and ink on streamers
fluttering down her hair not braided, and on her jacket, struck the
placardsacrossher back and dashedup and down back streetsof town
"Come,
waving a fiddlestick and shouting,
hear the Hallelujahs!"
"Mechanics Hall for youl Free!"
and
Now, we're full every night, Lizzie. Every night a long line of
"I'm
a wonder unto many, God alone
convertedtoughs singing out,
the changehas wrought!" Glorious! I wish you were here.
One of the Glory girls,
Beck
If it meant being a fool for God then fool she would have to be.
Uniform? Yes. Noise and commotion? Yes. Discipline? Yes. Forfeiture of
beaus and husband ifneed be? Yes. Anything, anywhere, always. She sang
with other aspirants:
I'lt be, Lord, I'll be, Inrd;
I'll be what you want me to be...
"I'll
Succeeding stanzas substituted the words,
do, Lord,"
"I'll
go,
The Salvation Army I 71
"Neglect
Lord." Shewas impressedto openher Bible and read:
not the gift
that is in thee" (l Timothy 4:14).'u
Gift? What gift? A decentvoice, but no nightingale.Modestof form and
feature, but no beauty. What gift, Lord'! Youth, Eliza. Youth. Without
hesitationshemadeher way to the consecrationform and calmly askedthe
Etemal to accepther offering-herself. There were no tears,no emotional
outbreak, no light from Heaven.Nothing more than the unshakablefact
that shewas making the correctdecision.When Cadmanpattedher headas
"Good girl, little
Shirley.God hasgreatplans
sheknelt, sheheardhim say:
for you."
The Cadmancampaigncontinueddespitefierce persecutionand impediments, until a mighty host of convertsproclaimedGod's Kingdom. Then
one April eveningCadmanbeckonedEliza after service.
'as
"Little
"t'
'e's
General
askedt' seeyou.
to be
Shirley," he told her,
in Leicesternext Wednesdayfor the weddin' of t' Black Prince2'and will
personallyinterview you. He heardyou sing and testify if you remember,
'e
and I've reported on your fighting spirit.
wants t' talk t' you about
becomin' an officer."
Officer! Not she!Too young. Can't leavehome. Why, I'm an only child.
And I'm far too timid for public work. Too sensitive.Too fragile. Yes,
Eliza, a voice said within, and far too proud-high and lifted up.
"All
"God
managest'rest.
it takesis your willingness,"said Elijah.
You needneverevenfear failing, sinceHe useseventhat to His glory. How
well I know."
"But
I'm not capable, Captain, nor very strong. Mama is in delicate
health. I couldn't leavehome. Why, I haven't yet been to London."
"Little
Shirley,do you wish t' Kingdom of God to come throughyou?"
Eliza nodded tearfullv.
26St.John Er.vine, God's Soldier, Yol. l, p. 448. Happy Eliza: "This woman, a notorious
virago, made herselfknown throughoutEnglandas Happy Eliza. Born and bred in a slum, a
loud-voiced, raging woman who had no fear of any sort in her heart, led a throng of ruffians
whom she had converted. At the top of their voices they would sing:
Shout aloud salvation, boys! We'll have another song;
Sing it with a spirit that will start the world along:
Sing it as our fathers sang it many a million strong,
As they went marching to Glory!
Comedians in the music halls introduced her into their songs. Dolls and toys were named after
her. Small boys and girls sucked sticky sweets on which her title was engraved. But this
'saved'
unrefined womanr so indecorous in her behavior, so raucousand unladylike,
hundreds
of harsh-minded men and women, and cost publicans a pretty penny before she died."
"A Trophy of Grace: Legend says this man had been a notorious fighter and carouser.He
became the General's beloved bodyguard and often rode behind him on a white horse. During
one of the riots in the mid-eighties, he was severely injured, dying not long after.
72 / PREACHING LADIES
"The
art o' savin' soulsis divine an' this wonderful gift isn't given to t'
'im
first comer,or to
who will not pay t' price. One must die for t' people,
just
and it's
in proportionas we consentt'die'is life canbe spread.This is
t' pivot of Christianity.Die to concernabout what anybodythinks or does
or doesn't do about you. Die to concernfor popularity,appreciation,even
'Follow
love. Jesussays:
Me, an' I will make you fisherso' men.' To die is
yourselfat t' form, but do you mean
to live-victoriously. You consecrated
business,little Shirley, now when t' act must follow t' thought?"
Eliza said nothing.
"If
God call you?"
"But He
hasn't."
"See
the Generaland decide."
Ruefully, Eliza said he could broach the matterto her parents,and late
the next eveninghe laid the matter before Amos and Annie.
"It's
"God, 'as been
not as if she were calledsudden," he told them.
'e
'er."
'er.
preparin'
I'm sure brought t' Army to Coventry in part for
"Quite possible,
Captain," said Amos, surprising all. He paused,
finding difficulty in speaking."Strange how God works. I didn't want to
say anything prematurely,but working conditions grow more and more
threatening.The mills go slowerand slowerand silk is being priced out of
the pocketbooksof the wealthy,let alone good middle-classcustomers.I
may soon have to travel where work can be found-and my destination
may prove most untenablefor Lizzie as we could not expect to find the
Army everywhere."
Annie's reactionwas quite other.
"l
"Lizzie's a
can't bear such a loss," she said.
baby. She'snot strong.
If shejoins as an officeq her life is forfeit. Can't you see, Captain, what
will happen?Battle her life long. Her healthwill wear through; she can't
pick her own husband; Army women will be fighting an engagement
regardingthe pulpit that nevercan be won, despitethe saintly Mrs. Booth.
I neverthoughtit would cometo this. We can't sacrificeLizziet" Her face
"We can't.
squeezed
You'll haveto excuseme, Captain.
up like a prune.
I'll have to battle this out in my room."
Annie reappearedan hour later, surprised that the other three still sat
around the kitchen table. She talked to the cookstoveas she put on the
teakettle.
"It's
"God's will must
all right," shesaid,spreadinga white tablecloth.
preaching
of
the
ladies
be mine. I can't solve the issue
so far as Lizzie is
concerned,or the violencewe attract,but I'm satisfiedGod will in His
good time. Why, if I weren't past fighting age, I might relish a go at it
myself. Did you know, Captain, Amos and I twice backedfrom the call?
The Salvation Army I 73
Through none of Amos' doings. If she'swilling, Lizziehas my consentfor
whateverthe Generalmay suggest."
The next morning, dressedseverelyin a long black princessdress of
Annie's, and wearing her little Mission bonnet, Eliza climbed into a rig
beside Captain Cadrnan.
At Leicester, the Army hall was decoratedfor the wedding of the Black
Prince. No candlesor chrysanthemums,
no carpetof white. Nor would the
bride wear white-but a plain princessfrock devoid of decorationexcept
for a wide white diagonal sash bearing the inscription: "He Lrvps!"
Everywherewas bunting of yellow, red and blue, and a spacehad been
reservedfor the brassband. The Generalwas waiting when Cadmanand
Eliza walked in. He was surveying the penitent-formand talking to a
carpenter.
"Now,
there'sa good solid form. I fancy it will be blessedtonight with
of
many
a sinner."
tears
The workman looked surprised.
"You give
t' call at a weddin', General?"
"lndeed
we do," said Booth. "We give the call on all occasions.The
trumpetof the Lord must give no uncertainsoundand at no uncertaintime.
And after the ceremonythe weddingcarriagewill wind throughtown with
soldiersmarchingbehind,and a SalvationArmy tune playedby the band as
a witness that two more young soldiersare joined to help pull down the
devil's kingdom."
"General, good morning!"
said Elijah, saluting, then shaking hands.
"Here
is little Shirley."
"Little Shirley." The
General smiled, smoothing his long beard,
appraisingher. "There is as little of you close rangeas at a distance.You
are a tiny one-but no mind. Small flowers often bear sweet fragrance.
Tell me, do you love Jesusmore than anything else in this world?"
"Yes,
General," said Eliza, her handslocked behind her.
"Do you love
the Army?"
"Yes, General."
"Do you
love it more than your own life?"
"I
don't know, General."
"What?" He frowned. "You
don't know? Honestlass." He studiedher
face. "Have you joined The Salvation Army to practice love to all
mankind'1"
"So far as I know.
General."
"Will you go
anywhereyour Generaltells you to go?"
Eliza hesitated.
"I
think so, thoughI shall needtesting."
74 / PREACHING LADIES
"You'll get that, my girl. Rememberthis your life long'" He waggeda
"God wants soldierswho do what He tells them to, not what
bony finger.
they tell Him they'll do. Obedienceis His requisitefor guidance.You may
not rely on your own reasonnor strengthnor desire nor inclination nor
dream nor enthusiasmnor pleasurenor humanaffection. Youmust rely on
God! If God orders you even to disobey the General, you must. Is that
understood?"
Eliza was in tears.
"Yes. General."
"Your test is in the Scripture. God will never ask anything alien to
Scripture.Then, my lass,you areofficer material." He put his hand on her
"for little soldier Shirley."
head and prayedinvincibility
Before the day was over, Eliza was a commissionedleftenantbound for
the north England coal-mining village of Bishop Auckland, county of
Durham-far awayfrom parents,home, corps and friends-her age being
16 years. A week later she boardedthe railway coach, a single valise in
hand.
"l love you darling, darling dears." She hugged Amos and Annie,
"We
march straightforwardl"
determinednot to cry.
into
the stomachof the conductor,but as Amos
And she did-straight
for good to them that love God, and the
together
work
believed,all things
for the conductor,noticing, befriended
again;
himself
devil had overshot
journey
into the unknown, sharingexperience
first
tortuous
that
Eliza on
and a hunk of his dinner pasty. He'd been a Welsh miner and knew
"summut o' what th' wee bairn'd find'"
ARTICLE
Captain Allsop'sMiracle Prayers
(as perceivedby SallieChesham)
Young Captain Annie Allsop, LieutenantEliza Shirley's commanding
officer in her first appointment,perhapsneveranalyzedher prayersuccess,
but she knew exactly how to begin, how to proceed, and how to
conclude-and that'sa fair miraclein itself.'
Captain Allsop believed that to the non-pray-er,answeredprayer is
miraculous. To the believer,tit is natural. He knows that the same laws
which apply to the rest of God's universe apply to prayer-thus, to
understandand use prayerproperly is to own the key to the secretsof the
"with
universe.Certainly,
God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26),
"is
becauseGod
all in all" (l Corinthians 15:28). He never disregards
divine law,t but sometimesspeedsup a process,using His law of energy
concentration,or of causeand el-fect.It is what we mean in prayerthat is
powerful, either positively or negatively,not what we verbalize (though
words themselvestend to createtheir connotationif thoughtlesslyused).
What men believe they get.
The timelessness
of the Creatormcrrtionedin Isaiah65:24 may well here
"BeJbrethey
be quoted:
ask I will emswer;while they are yet speaking,I
will hear." God is limited only by our unbelief,for if we believe,we know
He must 4nsvysl-fesause He has promised.
A simple definition of prayeris first in order:personalcommunionwith
our Creator, often expressedin conversation.The following are prerequisitesfor answeredprayer.The one who is praying must: mean business;
desire an answer which glorifies God; be willing to becomepart of the
answer;usepropertools, which arespecificity,visualization,presentation,
reception, and practice.
l. Specificity: This means to be specific-one thing at a time. Write
down ideas if you need to; know exactly what you desire. Vague
prayersget vagueanswers.
ll. Visualizatlon; Imagine the subject of your prayer; if needed,draw, etc.
'We are herein dealing with prayer requests, not other forms
of prayer; also, regarding
crisis prayer:most men in crisis meanbusiness-God answeringintensefaith-but unlessthe
experienceis incorporatedinto everydayexperiencethere will be little lasting good.
rBeliever: One in earnest,who is honest and
acceptsconfidently, not allowing fear to reside
in the heart.
rThat would discreditHis oerfection.
75
76 i PREACHING LADIES
a picture or cut one out of a magazineor newspaper.Make the request
as concreteas possible.
Ill. Presentation:TreatGod as the personalCreatorHe is. AddressHim by
name (once is enough; it is unnaturaland undignified to punctuate
every phrase with His holy name). Presentthe requestin detail but
unembellishedwith recitation either of your self-worth or self-pity.
Write it out as a letter to a businessman.if needed.
Do not prescribeeither method or time of execution;that is God's
"This,
business. Just visualize the request achieved. Say clearly,
God-ar somethingbetter." That leavesroom for God to improve your
request.
lY. Reception: Believe that you immediately have an affirmative answer,
no matter what appearancessay. It is only the manifestation that has
not appeared.
Y. Practice: Practiceprayer;practicethe presenceof our loving God. In
time, certainty will pervade your life. Strengthenyour faith with
appropriate Scripture reading. The power of habit cannot be overestimated. A typist must know the keyboard well enough to forget it
beforethere is any degreeof proficiency.A musiciandare not think of
fingering or blowing or he is recognizedas an amateur.A qualified
writer must be so sure of the rules for grammar. punctuation and
spelling that he does not have to be concernedabout these things.
Prayer is an instrument. True, music always leaps out and away from
the instrument-but instrument,techniqueand concentrationare very
important. An artist knows that he may never give up instrumentcare
and discipline. That which is not exercisedatrophies.
"People want spectacularguidance," notesEverettLewis Cattel in Tfte
"but they forget that these extraordinary experiences
Spirit of Holiness,
come to those who have built well the foundations-sensitivenessto the
Spirit's pressurein the soul in small matters.The increaseof sensitiveness
to the voice of the Spirit is in direct proportion to the implicitness of
obediencemoment by moment."
Regardingprayeranswers,we must not limit God but must learn to be
aware and waiting, always waiting, for His whispeq His finger pointing,
His tap on the shoulder,His breathon our cheek-anywhere, everywhere,
at all times.
How to recognize the voice of God? Again, it comes with practice,
experience.A new convert asked Amos Kenworthy how it was that Christ
"My sheepknow My voice," yet this gentlemancouldn't hear
had said,
Captain Allsop's Miracle Prayers I 77
"Yes, it is true
that His sheepknow His
that voice. The patriarchreplied,
voice but it is also true that the lambs have to learn it."
Listen! Listen! Listen! And remember the American Indian axiom:
"Listen,
or thy tongue will keep thee deaf."
Be aware! Be alone! Tell no man!
Prayer truth is expressedin anothermanner as expressedin Jesus'words
recordedin Matthew 7:7:
l. "Ask and it shall be givenyou."(Be specific. Know you have it.)
"Seek
2.
and ye shall find."(lt's yours! Now, go after it.)
"Knock,
3.
and it shall be opened unto you."(Take possessionwith
authority.)
For great prayer there must be great intensity of desire. Concentrationin
prayer,as in all other disciplines,requiresdeep feeling (not demonstrated
emotion). No fire, no heat. If we say we are not warm by nature, never hot,
then we may ask God for feeling. Thoughtful, purposefulrelianceon His
leading and determination to think, do and be the best we are capable of,
will lead to correct change.True, feeling cannotbe changedby thought,
but thought changesaction and action changesfeeling.
"in His
name"-Christ Jesus'.This
Christiansare commandedto pray
demandsour most centeredthought, for Jesusis the heart of the universe,
the personnessof the Incomprehensible,the button which switcheson the
-light. He is the Eternal's form and face. He is the tender and touchable,
"He
patient and powerful Living Picture of God:
that hath seenMe (Jesus)
hath seenthe Father" (John l4:9).
Finally, prayer,as all else-miracles, healings,prophecies-is meantto
lead us to the Father. Christ Jesuscomes not primarily to be prayer-partner,
helper, teachernor miracle worker. He comesas blood-Son of Divinity-to
be our Indweller. It is God we should desire, not His goodies, for the
greatestgift He can bestowis Himself. God said, "l am their inheritance"
(Ezekiel 44:28).
When this realizationcomesto us, as it did to CaptainAllsop and Eliza,
we find in ourselvesthe wonder of all time-that indescribablecapacity to
trust in the living God. Then, believing, truly believing, we may shout:
"l
know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep
that which I have committed unto Him against that day" (2 Timothy l:12).
ChapterIV
THE
TEST
TIME:
April, 1879
PLACE:
BishopAuckland,Durham
SETTING: RailwayStation
As the train pulled out of BishopAuckland, Eliza, valisein hand, looked
about her for a young woman in similar garb who GeneralBooth said was
so first-ratethe town called her "The Gospel Trumpet." Eliza's marching
"You
orders read:
are appointed to assist in the command of Bishop
Auckland Corps under Captain Annie Allsop." Captain Cadman had
"a
described Annie as
fiery redhead, worth her weight in fine-cut
diamonds.As small as you, little Shirley,and a hundredtimes louder."
Where was this blazing bonfire?
"Leftenant."
It was a muffled call. "Leftenant."
Eliza searchedthe platform. No red hair to be seen.
"Here.
Quickly. Slip on this cape."
Nonplussed,Eliza let the hoodedfigure adjusta similar black capeabout
her. Her ann was tightly grasped,and she was propelled off the station
platform.
"Captain
Allsop?"
"Yes, praise the Lord!
Once on the way I'll explain." Tbking Eliza's
"Leftenant, you've
valiseshehurriedalong.
beenappointedto fill the hole
lef' by Meg Darwell, a real glory girl. Convertedsoonafterthe openin' last
'un-foreman
November. Her intended is a rough
at the mine, heavy
drinker, atheist. Tunible Tirrnip Tircker.When Meg decided for officership,
he poppedquite out of his mind."
"He's holding you
responsible?"
"Whole army. I wanted you
to know before you got into the storm's eye.
Go home if you will."
"I've
told the GeneralI'm in the battle to stay."
79
80 / PREACHING LADIES
"Not
afraid?"
"Yes, but I've enlisted."
The draped figure dropped her hood and Eliza saw a mane of carroteyeslike a
coloredhair, a freckledrecklessround faceand molasses-brown
child's.
Eliza slid off her hood.
"Hallelujah! LeftenantShirley! My, you're the pretty one."
"Hallelujahl
CaptainAllsop. Victory or deathl"
"That's it! We'll make a bannerof it. Victory or death!We'll march
the
streetsof Bishop Auckland an' tear down the devil's kingdom, Tirnible
TUrnipan' the lot. You want to know what GeneralBooth told me when my
'Self preservationis
mother was worried?He said a gent had told him,
the
'But
first law of nature.'The Generalretorts,
self-sacrificeis the first law of
grace.'Down with that old liar the devil!"
"PleaseGod, teachme how to fight-and to want to," prayedEliza. "l
don't feel like downing the devil or anybodyelse."
"Now then, we'll walk with our headsup
and shouldersback," said the
"and
I'll give you a bit o' history regardingour fair town.
GospelTrumpet,
Village it may be but as ragged and ragin' a hellhole as London, and as
likely for Kingdom building. There are folks other placessay miners are
subhuman,but I find themjolly and decentfor the most part, heartsbig as
banels. There's the odd one of qsulss-nnd they do stir one anotherup.
"Yours for the
But t'won't last." They beganto race along like children.
Kingdom, Leftenant!"
"Yours for the Kingdom, Captainl"
"Only a few more rods."
"Shan't we come upon TirrribleT[rnip directly?"
"Maybe he's in the mines. Wagerhe'll turn up with his henchmenthis
evenin'."
They reachedthe little shackcalledthe officers'quarters;entering,Eliza
covered her astonishmentby wiping her nose. The Shirleys had lived
simply but well. Now shewas confrontedwith what could only be called a
shelter from the wind. The quartersconsistedof two small rooms with
broken windows stuffed with newspapers,a broken bedsteadwith no
mattress,a pine kitchen table with no chairs, a chipped washstandand
cracked basin, small potbellied stove with no fuel, a chamberpot and a
blue frock hangingon the wall besideslips of paperwhich read variously:
,,JESUS,
MY REDEEMER,''
aress uec!"
and, finally,
,,IN
ALL THY WAYS ACKNOWLEDGE
"GoD
HIM,,,
,,GOD
seve TuRRTBLETURNIz rucKER."t
'Harold Begbie, The Life of General Booth, Vol. I, p. 400. Order Against Starvation, 1878:
"The General has learnedwith
sreat concern that severalof the bravestofficers who have sone
The TestI 8l
Captain Annie explainedwithout apology.
"No
cleanin' problem, an' we shan't be restingoft. I am sorry about the
larder. Not much on hand. You see, Leffy, with the strike on, Tirnible
Turnip'smen regularstealthe collectionplates.I'm surethe Lord has some
noble purposein it all."
"Of course. May I make
lunch?"
"Little to prepare
but enoughfor a nice bit o' potatosoup."
"Favorite,"
laughedEliza, taking offher bonnetand hangingit with her
capeon the nail marked, "Lefienant." She was not preparedfor the recipe
however.Captain Annie sliced two potatoesthin as gauze, addeda little
pepper,salt and a dab of butterand set it in a blue-enameled
pan to simmer.
She put the kettle on for tea, and in a half hour they were sitting on two
barrelsplanning strategyover a linen-coveredtable.
"Mam's,"
said CaptainAnnie. "She orderedas I left. 'Annie, Love,'
'ye
she says,
may one day live on breadand water but do all as the King's
own daughter.If a crustbe your portion, well then be gratefuland graceful;
beauty is God's own handwritin'."' Annie pattedthe linen.
"TUnible
Turnip lay seige last night. Broke up meetin' with hundreds
present.Declaredif the Army don't coughup Meg, he'll murderevery last
one of us."
"What
shall we do?"
"Oh, Jesus'll
work it out. We'll pray, including the larder.I've advised
God before, but a reminder won't go astray.Down we go."
Down they went. Eliza was used to prayer but she'd never before
encounteredsuch as this. CaptainAnnie prayedas if God had come to tea
in this cold, damp room.
"Precious
Fatherin heaven," she said. "This is the way of it, and You'd
get
best
a moveon. How You do it is noneofour businessbut that You do it
is. Increaseour faith. Double our love; stretchout our arms. Conquerthe
cruel, the faithlessand brokenhearted.The hurt turnedhellion, Lord. Deal
with T[rrible Tirrnip. A wee squabblewon't fret us. And a bit o' breadan'
treacle for the table, please."
Eliza was ashamedof her formal prayer but Captain Annie boomed,
"Leffy, even
angel wings got to be exercised."Early in the afternoonthey
to the towns recentlyentered,haveenduredthe greatestprivations,going, in fact, to the very
brink of starvationwithout informing him, and this, even in caseswhere they had actually
money in their possession,which they intendedto use for the paymentof rent or other debts.
He wishesevery one to understandthat such devotion, howevernoble, is to be avoidedand
condemned,especiallybecauseit not merely exposesthe strengthand life of the offlcers,
which are of unspeakablevalue, to great risk, but is likely to bring great discreditupon the
Army...every officer is herebyauthorizedto use, in caseofneed, any money that may be in
his possession,ratherthan undergosuchsufferings,obtainingthe sanctionof headquarters
for
such use of rent or other money in hand afterwards."
82 / PREACHING LADIES
visited convertsand two jailbirds and distributedThe Salvationist.Thete
was fear in the voices of many they encountered.
"Cap," was the consensus,"when Turnip seesye've a replacementfor
'e'll make 'ell on earth 'steado' 'eaven."
Meg,
At six o'clock soldiersbeganto assembleat the banacksfor the open-air
meeting, curious and eagerto welcome Eliza. Knee drill was conducted
aroundthe penitent-form,thenout they marched,one hundredstrong,fully
expecting Turnip and his mine mates to tear into them. But not one
renegadeappeared.There was an air ofrelaxation as lines formed and four
abreast,handsclasped,Army flag to the center,the Army marchedback to
its barracks. There a good crowd waited and as Captain and Leftenant
"Fire a volley!" shookthe rafters,followed by a
marchedto the platform,
"We'll roll the old chariot along' and wewon't drag on
grand chorus of
behind!"
Standingat the speakingtable in the centel Captain Annie raised her
"Beloved comrades,tonight we
hands and bade worshipers welcome.
begin a specialcampaignof the Cross."
There was a chorus of amens.
"We'll storm the forts of darknessan' break down the devil's kingdom!
We'll set the captive free. As replacementfor Meg Darwell, our General
has appointeda doughty little lassfrom Coventry,LeftenantEliza Shirley.
Let us welcome her with our ten-stringedinstruments!"
"Hallelujah!" and "Praise
Amid clapping, feet stompingand shoutsof
the Lord!" the back door was flung open and up the centeraisle pounded
Tirnible Tirrnip, a mountainous, hard-faced, wildly gesticulating man
"Down wi'
followed by unwashedminers in a black line, all bellowing,
The SalvationArmy!"
Before converts and sympathizers could guess the plan of attack, the
minershad mountedthe platform, wielding shovelsand pickaxes,grabbed
the two girls and holding them above their heads, rushed the door. There
were screams. From her command post aloft, Captain Annie called'
"soldiers be true! God is not mocked. He will provide!"
"We'll see'bout that!" roared Turnip as an onlooker lunged at him'
"Who'll take on TLnible Turnip?Tryt' an' we'll kill t'iady preachers'"He
"We'll kill 'em-or worsel"
turned back and spit.
Expectingtrouble,the constableswerequickly summoned.A half dozen
of them came, wielding billy clubs. They apprehendedTurnip and his
chum, RoosterBeecham,who resembledclosely his nickname,dragging
them to the black buggy.
..You too!" They shovedAnnie and Eliza on board. "Incitin' to riot!
Peacedisturbin'!"
The TbstI g3
Honified, Eliza stared back at bloodied faces, ripped clothing, filth_
coveredfloor and oh, dear Lord, there lay the sergeant-majorand the flagcarrieron the ground.
"Chin
up, Leffy," whisperedAnnie. ,.Victory or death!',
"Victory
or death," Eliza repeatedlamely,but her heartdidn't agree.By
the time Black Maria reachedthe town hall and the lot were shovedto the
bar, the mayor,in lieu of a magistrate,was banginghis gavel.The men spat
their namesand oaths, then, slit-eyed,measuredthe girls as they spoke,
describing themselvesas commandingofficer and assistantof the local
Salvation Army corps. when asked what this Army's purpose was in
commencing work in Bishop Auckland some six months ago, captain
Annie answered,"To capturethe entire town forJesus!" Eliza was asked
what right the Army had to send two girls to do men's business.She
answered,"Your Honor, in Christ there is neither bond nor free, neither
male nor female. We are all one in Christ Jesus."
Furious, the mayor bangedhis gavel. ..I'm waming you girls, you're
cited for public disturbanceand inciting to riot. It could easilyte .ont"rnpt
added. And if this happensagain, you'll be sent to the workhouse.Case
dismissed."
Turnip and Rooster were fined and released. They offered no further
objectionand did not molestthe Salvationistsduring the march back to the
hall and resumptionof the meetingwhich benefitedfrom the intemrption
and tribulation, captain Annie reporting to headquarters,"Ten in the
fountain, six in pickle." The girls were too exhaustedto think about food
that night; howeveq in the morning, they soon realized either God had
otherplansregardingtheir sustenance
or He was severelytestingtheir faith
and endurance,for therewas only tea and one thrown onion betweenthem
before they left the quarters to clean the homes of some of Bishop
Auckland's ailing. Someonegave them toast and tea for lunch, but they
were weary and dizzy on arrival home. Inside the door, Annie snorted.
"Someun's
bin here! Someun'sdisarranged
us!"
Nothing seemeddisarrangedto Eliza. Bed, table, stove, chamber Dor
looked in order.The floor was unmuddied,the Scripturesat on the barrel
top.
"See!"
moanedAnnie, "disarranged!God's bits an' piecesmolested!,'
"I don't
see-"
"Plain
as the noseon your face." Annie ran to the wall. "There is Meg's
prayerslip, an' the sergeant's,Miss Olin's, Moose Bullards's."She named
others. "And there was Tirrrible Tirrnip's. He's broken and entered, that
one."
"You
mean he's taken away his slip?"
84 / PREACHING LADIES
Suddenly,Annie broke into peal after peal of laughter.
"Oh, the blackguard'soverstepped!Satanleapedtoo far. He's touched
God's house an' God's soldiers. God is not mocked. Whatsoevera man
sows-poor Turnip-he's done himself in this time. Leffy, we'll thank
God an let's not forget the larder."
Kneeling,Eliza wasstill confused.Shecouldn'tseehow stealinga piece
of paper, even a prayer slip, could determinea man's salvation. Annie
answeredher thoughts.
"Leffy, don't you see?The blackguardbouncedin here to take a tum
agin us-an' got convictedlElse he would neverhavetorn it off the wall -"
Annie prayed long and loud for the salvationof the entire world, the
country, the village-and especially for the immortal soul of Tirrrible
"Bring 'im down, Lord! Make 'im mashl Then raise'im up
TirrnipTircker.
as stern tbr You as he was againstYoul Don't forget the larder, mind, if
You don' want two rag dolls at meetin'."
Eliza thanked God for the challenge of the hour. She secondedher
captainin urgentmattersand remindedHim of their empty stomachs'They
then spread the linen cloth for a solitary cup of tea when there was a
pounding on the door.
"Backl" ordered Annie, pushing Eliza behind her' "Don't be frighr
ened, Leffy. He'tl quail beforeGod's Spirit."
Eliza was the one who quailed. She thought of picking up the stovepoker, but had lost all ability to move.
"Back are you?" shouted Annie to the darkness,opening the door.
"Back after lootin' the Lord's larder. Your consciencehas brought you,
"
Tirrnip. Your-dear Jesus!
She fell back as Tirrnip, carrying a heavy clothesbasketwith Rooster,
hoistedhimself overthe lintel. Eliza watched,boggle-eyed.Dear Jesus.He
must be drunk, carrying some awful"We
come to make amends." Turnip did not look up. Others pushed
forward, all carryingbasketsand boxes,somewith chairsin their hands.A
new spring and mattress,a small couch, braidedmats, a washstand,a set
of crockery, bushelsof food.
"The Lord be praised!" shouted Annie. "What is this? The Lord
Himself in wolves'trousers?"
Tirrnip looked like cold mutton.
"Paper on the wall do it." He choked. "Come to smashyer cottage,but
there ware nuthin' to smash.Two little bairns in a nest wi'hout feathers.
Me eyeslit on the wall and I reado' Meg, an' the Sallieswe done in. Then
't
made masho' me."
I seeme own name-an'
The TestI 85
"Mash?"
Annie hooted,turning to Eliza. "Leffy, you hear?He's mash,
is Ti:rrible Turnip. God's mash. Oh, gloryl Now then, we'll all havea nice
drop o' tea."
In crowded more than a dozen of the most untoward sinnersever swung
a pickaxe, slurping out of mugs and saucers,eating bran bread and pure
salt butter.
"Now,"
said CaptainAnnie, closing an elatedprayel "you'll come to
barrackstonight an' get savedproper.Public confessionis what'sneeded."
"Aye,"
said Turrible Turnip, "but I've no hankerin' to become a
shouter."
As the door closed the girls droppedto their knees.
"It's
a deal more, dear Father,than bread an' treacleye've broughtand by the selfsamelads yesterdaywould gladly have done us in."
They didn't eat much, a few spoonsfulof oatmeal,simply becausethey
were too hungry.
"But
oh, tomorrow," said Annie, gloating, "we'll make a precious
pasty. Leffy, you know how to concoct 'em?"
Eliza didn't.
"Miners'
dinner-all lovely an' fragrant an' tasty. Wives bring 'em to
the mine mouth at noon, wrapped tight in their aprons. Tomorrow we
feast!"
The crowd numberedwell over a thousandnext night, with singing such
as no one but robust miners can manage.At the invitation, out rushed
TUrribleTirrnip before the soldierscould get a hand in fishing. He threw
himself at the penitent-formas if he'd causeto pound out his brains, said
nothing for minutes, then beganto pound his greatgnarledfists, to shake
and shiverand shout, "God, I can't be saved!Can't be saved!Can't be
saved!I'm too-too-too-"
"Too
what, Turnip?Too what?" coaxedAnnie, Eliza trembling at her
side.
"I'm
too, oh. God. I'm too-"
"Tell
God. Too what'!"
Tirrnip leapedto his feet,jumped up and down on the penitent-formthen
cried out, "l'm too damnedmeant" As suddenly,he fell prostrateon the
floor. Eliza thought he'd killed himself.
The audienceconvulsed, then rose up in fear and curiosity. Turnip's
matesrushed forward.
"Back!"
orderedCaptainAnnie. "He's been struck down o'the Spirit,
slain in the Lord. Such a miracle is not seen often, believe you me.
Friends,here'sa man of intensity.Here'sa man of action. Here'sa man of
86 / PREACHING LADIES
conscience.
An' somewhaton it. Neithergooddeeds,nor goodwords,nor
hell-raisin'can covernor erase-only the blood o' Jesus.Count on this:
he'll rise up in his senses.clothedand in his right mind. Standback!"
Eliza had never seen such a manifestationbefore. Even the General's
"Just
meetingshadn'tproducedthe like. Annie had the congregation
sing,
as I am," and pray on their knees, then stand with right handsextended
heavenward,humming. She did not touch Tirrnip nor allow anyoneelse
near.For more than l0 minuteshe was prone.Then he openedhis eyes,slid
his head back and fbrth gingerly and, seeingRoosterand his men, said
"Eh,
theremates.Give ol' Tirrnipa hand up."
This done,he spreadhis legs,put his gianthandson his gianthips andin
as sober a fashion as the Generalhimself, gave a detailedaccountof his
experience.
"A
"A
devil all me life," he confessed.
beater,cheater,foul-mouthed
an' filthy. Only decentthing ever enteredme life was Meg an' when she
took herselfoff I becomethe devil hisself.VowedI'd taunt and torture and
'er."
terrify ever las' Sallie I spied.An' if ever I saw me Meg, I'd kill
He took a deep breath.
"Spittin'
brimstone,me an' me mateswent to the Hallelujahs'cottage
'em
with it if they'd beenhome.But there
this morning.We'd'vesmashed
ware nuthin' to smash.and them starvin'.Nuthin' but a few bits o'white
paper tacked to wall-folks prayedfor in off moments.I come upon me
own name-knew I were goner. You see what happenednext. Whys an'
ways o' religion I neverunderstoodan' maybewon't, but this ye can bank
on-Tirnible Tirrnip's a new man. A Person'scome to live inside." He
turnedto the girls. "Teachme t' sing, wee bairns!Teachme t' sing! Fer I
'im."
want to be a singin' soldier,as likely fer God as agin'
They taughthim a song and it was lifted that night, sung 50 odd times,
beganto march round
until voiceswere hoarseand soldiersspontaneously
the hall, TUrrible Turnip catching up the Army flag to lead, Rooster
poundinga half-skinneddrumheadat the rear.Tirrniplearnedthis songand
led it, and many'sa miner that knelt that night and many'sa miner that fled
in terror from his "daft" commander:
Sound the battle cry! See, the foe is nigh,
Raise the standardhigh for the Lord.
Gird your armor on, stand firm every one;
Rest your causeupon His holy Word.
CHORUS:
Rouse,then, soldiers, rall1,'round the banner!
Ready, steady,pass the word along;
Onward, forward, shout aloud, Hosanna!
Chrisl is Captain of the mightt throng.
The TbstI 87
Next morning, Tirrnip called off the mine strike, statingthat Jesushad
given him the Army's secretfor battle. Henceforwardhe would waste no
"fers,"'
time nor energy.He would fight with
insteadof fists, and soonhad
the miners singing gospel songsto pickaxe accompaniment,paradingon
off hours about managementhomes, whole families of them, singing
homemadeditties to popular and jolly tunes. Here's an example:
He hearswhatdiggershaveto say,
He hears what diggers have to say,
He hears what diggers have to say,
That way he's always rightll
Sergeant Turnip donned a scarlet guernsey before the week was out,
adding a wide red ribbon marked SALVATION ARMY to his miner's cap,
and revival broke out in Bishop Auckland.
Eliza hardly recognized herself. Being part of the miracle of Tumip
brought inestimable encouragement and delight to her during the next
weeks. With Little #1, as she called Annie Allsop, she soon preached,
prayed and praised God to crowds of 1,000 and more, conducted daily
"Hallelujah!"
sing-songs at the mine's mouth, and altogether had a
time.
Little #l ofien did the preaching , Eliza served as songleader and soloist,
accompanying herself on her guitar, with the frequent enrichment of a
concertina, flute, mouth-harp and paper-covered combs. Saloons began to
close early so patrons and publicans could attend. Gambling dens went
without customers. Magistrates and mayor came for front seats. In the
"great
midst of the
season c'rfrefreshment and armament," Eliza received a
letter from her father. It read:
Darling daughterEhza:
It both pliases and pains me to appriseyou of the following, for
separationof the kind describedwill be most distastefulto both your
Mother and me, yet with mill conditionsas they are throughoutthe
land, in recentmonths I havemade inquiriesacrossthe watersin the
United States,and am convincedthat my trade being held there in
high regard, there are excellentopportunitiesfor advancement.
After much prayer and heartsearching,your Mother and I have
decidedthat I shall leaveas soon as passagecan be booked, visiting
on arrival the cities of Paterson, New Jersey, and Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania.In each, the silk-mill industry is thriving. I shall
probably settle on Paterson,as it is most prominent in the silk
industry.
Your Mother will follow when I have secureda position, and set up
a house.We feel sure this removalis God's will for us and know that
t f*S , positive,nonviolentapproach,sanctioned
by precedinghoursof prayer.
rTUne:"For He'sa JollyGoodFellow."
88 / PREACHINGLADIES
we needhaveno fearfor you, thoughour heartsaretorn at thethought
I shallwriteoften.Do likewisewhenpossible.
of widerseparation.
Your loving Father,
PapaAmos
Eliza was stunned.Leaving home was one thing, but having home leave
you was another.
"I
"While
don't seehow I can bear up," she said after #l readthe letter.
they were close enoughto reach, I felt secure."
"The
child in us wants a God to be touchin' wheneverwe fear." said
"Fine fer the newborn. But the oldbom must
Annie.
learn his ma an' pa's
beyond legs an' arms, that home is in the heart, that a truly saved one
doesn't run home becausehe's there, that he need never go shriekin' an'
swayin' after the wailin' winds an' wondersfar-flung,for God Himself has
set up housekeepin'in him."
Eliza looked up through her tears.
"You
say truth so oddly I can always laugh."
"But
clear. That's why the lads call me Gospel Tiumpet. It's clear we
have to be, sweet Leffy, for as the Scriptures say, if the trumpet give an
uncertainsound, how shall the people hear?We must know in whom we
havebelieved,then we can go aboutseekin'an' savin' God's lost ones.But
if there'squestionabout God's ability in us, we'll walk an' talk an' chew
an' vomit that question,an' folks'll only seea stumblin' questionmark.All
that ever restrictsGod is our unwillingnessto trust Him completely."
Eliza buried her head in her arms, trying not to act like a boohooing
baby, as she said, but she could not. Never to seethem again! What if she
got sick? What if shecouldn't carry responsibility?GeneralCusterhad his
scalp cut off. Oh, what if the Indianscapturedthem in the new country?
What if she grew old and was left alone? What if they drowned? What if
she died? What if God really didn't care? What if she lost contact with
Jesus?
"ohhhhhhhhhh."
"Oh, what? You sound like Turrible Turnip."
"What
if it's harder than you think? Being me, I mean. What if I lost
contact with Jesus?"
Little #1 didn't sympathize.In fact, she drew up and away.
"Leffy,
if you never remember another thing about Bishop Auckland
remember this: never be a crybaby. Faith is the victory that overcomesthe
world and the blues and depressionand fear and all manner of nasties;and
it's best based on the Scriptures.An' prayer is the carriage, six-horse
carriage, both to and from God."
The TestI 89
"I
know it works for you. I'm amazedat your faith and I know the Bible
speaksto you-and I know how prayer works. But maybe there are special
people-special things happento specialpeople but-"
"Nonsense!
God has no favorites!Else I'd nevertrust 'im-if He don't
love everybodythe same, I don't want 'im. He picks different folks for
different tasks, but they don't need to accept,and there'stasks for every
last one of us."
"But you
have so much practice and proof."
"Because
I listen an' look. And mean business.Leffy, we don't haveto
look far. The New Testament'sa set o' golden keys. They'll open any
palace door. Tells how to live and how to love, how to praise and how to
pray and how to center down in God. Don't fear,just launch outl"
"I
could neverpray like you. I alwaysfeel how dare I ask God for real
things, personalthings-with all my shortcomingsand vague desires."
Eliza, unthinking, rose and filled rhe teakettlewith the warer-paildipper.
Dried her eyes. Suddenly she felt like her mother, initiating such a
customaryact. The gulps were gone, the questionsnow clear.
"Little
#1, is there a right way to pray? I mean can we expect to be
answeredevery time? Not to feel that God's permissivewill allows some
awful inevitables?"
"There's
a right way of all truth. The coat God gives us; the buttons we
sew on ourselves.You simply swing round the touchstoneof God's glory,
one whirl at a time."
"I thought
thinking might draw me away from God-"
"What
do you think God gives us minds for? And He won't do what we
can. Leffy, basics.We think in ones, or should. Then we think round the
ones. What could go wrong? What can we do when it does. When we ger
that far, we hand our best thinkin' to God. We say, 'This, God. One and
only one thing at a time.' An' we don't think about its opposite.Just the
good side. We hand one thing at a time to Him and we say, 'This, Godl Or
somethin' better."'
"Somethin'
better?"
"Yes.
That's to give God His go at it. He couldn't give us somethin'
worse, His bein' God. Remember,Lizzie, He's God. He's absolute,
absolutetruth, absolutehonesty,absolutejustice, absolutelove, absolute
everything.That's what God means.So anybody launchin' forth in God's
vessel knows he'll arrive by the best way with the best cargo to the best
port. See?"
"I'm
willin' to. Each time I think I've journeyed far, t find I've only just
besun."
90 / PREACHING LADIES
"And you'll
really, truly let your Ma an' Pa go without ifs?"
"l'll
try."
"You got
to make up your mind. Follow fact and not feelin'."
"It's
a hard decision-against resistance,againstself-pity.I'm probably
jealous of the new country too. I want my parentsto put me before ir."
Eliza got out the tin of biscuits, poured tea.
Then they prayed.Thanked God for food, for the miraclesof Tunible
Turnip and RoosterBeecham, for the mines and Bishop Auckland, The
SalvationArmy, and for Jesus,who never needsto come becauseHe's
never gone.
Gettingup from her knees,Eliza said, "I'll do it. I'll let them go. I'll
even let them love the new country."
"Good girl!
Then we can look for more miracles."
Into May they marched,throngsat the mercy seat,throngson the march.
There was little or no opposition,until, aboutthe first of June, therewas a
startling, insidious,nearcatastrophicattackcampaignedin such a manner
that there could be no planneddefensivestrategy.First, entranceand exit
handleswere goose-greased,
along with patchesof steps,resultingin some
broken limbs due to severefalls. Snakes, hornets and leap frogs were
loosed to slither and leap among worshipers.Chemicals were plastered
over gas vents. Restrainedby the girls and his own new philosophy,
Tirnible Tirrnip restrainedhis men from resorting to intricate devices of
torture in apprehendingthe culprits.
"'Smoking
Captain Annie quoted:
flax shall He not quench.His voice
Neither
shall not cry in the streets.'
shall ours."
Then came the night of tenor. The meetinghad well progressed,all the
windows were open, and an overflow crowd lounged under the trees
surrounding the barracks; in the darkness, some had climbed onto
windowsills, some had brought laddersfor a better view. Captain Annie
was preachingand all were intent when, suddenly,through a slice of roof
obviously sawedbeforehand,a dozen or more pigeonswere loosed over
Annie's head. They swoopedin bewildermentand she let out an agonized
shriek. As the birds began to scatter,folks screamedand moaned. Red
pepper,and worse, had been packedunder the pigeons'wings.
T\rrnip and his men kicked open the front door, which had been barred
from the outside, and shooed out the birds. but the attack was a clear
victory for the attackers.CaptainAnnie, blindedand writhing, was carried
to the quarters,her vision to be marredfor months.She insistedthat Eliza
continue with the daily scheduleof visitation and meetings;thus, Eliza's
recentdecisionto rely only on God's strengthand presencenow servedto
The TestI 9l
align her with forcesstrongenoughto sustainher in her new role of acting
corps commander.Tirrnip insistedthat the criminal be apprehended.
"But
not for jail!" orderedEliza. "The Army keepsmen from jail and
takes them fiom it but cannot shovethem into it. We'll pray, Tirrnip, ancl
we'll deal in love. Your word."
He gloweredat her.
"Leffy,
I am me word."
That night a watch was set aroundthe clock. That'sthe only way to turn
up rotten potatoes. Which ir did. At midnight a black-veiled figure
approachedthe barracks,gracefullyfor a personso large. A small banel of
cow-dung was ready for dumping through a broken window when Tirrnip
lunged,capturinga blasphemingamazon.
"Peg
Polll My' Godl" yelled Turnip. "you!" Eliza hunied to light a
lamp in the barracks,and the woman was pulled in, biting and kicking the
half dozen miners who held her. when Eliza camenear,she spatchewing
tobaccoand attemptedto bite.
"Go 'head.
Clout mel Drag me to the jug. Hain't sorry."
Turnip looked nonplussed.
"Poll,
what in hell you cussin'out the Army fer?,'
Eliza could see the woman better now-very large, broadchested,
vulgar looking, with bitter black eyes,heavybrows,and a bushof black
hair flying about her shoulders.And she had a peg leg. Tirrnip caught
Eliza'sglanceand muttered,"Her prof'ession
dirtied her up inside." peg
Poll tried to bite him, got one bold arm looseand smasheda fist at Eliza's
bonnet, her face scratchedand bleeding from resistance,
"Clobber
r n e ! S m a s hm e ! "
Still tightly pinneddown, shehad to submitto Eliza'sGod-blessing
her.
"Peg
Poll'?"She swore. "The likes o' me? Sin's et me up long ago_
like a holler spongeI am. Rotten.They set me to this. | ,6,assst t6_,'
"You
can change," said Eliza. "God lovesyou and we love you."
"Enough
t' take me home'?"
"Yes."
"Eat yer
t'
table?"
"Yes."
"Sleep
in yer bed?"
"Yes."
"Now?
No jug'1"
"Yes."
At the quarters,Peg had to face seeingAnnie, but it wasn't long before
they were laughing about the entire escapade,though Annie's eyes were
92 / PREACHING LADIES
bandaged.Eliza bathedPoll in the round tin washtub,beggedcleanclothes
from women soldierslaterbut fixed up the bed sheetfor that night, put her
to bed and in the morning fed her ponidge, wrappedup a pasty for lunch,
and took her to her shackon the hill.
"And will yer put a slip wi' me nameon the
Before she left, Poll asked,
wall?"
"Yes, Poll."
"Then I'm takin' a chanceon God. Maybe what He done for Tirrnip,He
can do fer me."
And He did-without the flourish. lt was in the midst of this rollicking
victory that Eliza receivedanotherletter from Amos, postmarkedPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania.It read:
DarlingLizzie,
HereI am, situatedandsettledin thecity of Philadelphia-afine
silk-mill hereand I've beenhiredas foreman.Goodpay and have
alreadyfounda homefor yourMother.Now,whatI'm wonderingis
this: withouta doubtthis is oneof the finestcountriesin the worldandoneof themostwicked.I'm hopingandprayingthatyoumaybe
GeneralBoothto allowyouto comewith Motherand
ableto convince
Army in theUnitedStates.I shall
like The Salvation
startsomething
do all I canto helpyou if you come.
Your loving Father,
PapaAmos
Eliza read and re-readthe letter.Then shegaveit to #1, who read it and
handedit back without a word. Eliza could only spreadit out on her cot and
wait for God's directing word. For a week she persevered,then, finally
assured,she wrote GeneralBooth, requestingpermissionto lead the attack
on the United States.Soon after,Tirrnip and Roosterwere on the barracks
"Leave
door when therewas poundingand the demandof femininevoices:
us in! Leaveus in!"
"Permit the whosoeveqsergeants!"
Eliza ordered,
In marchedPeg Poll, clean and shining as of late, and behind her filed
the brothelkeeper,FlameMadsen,and a good baker'sdozenof fancy girls,
crimson-frockedand henna-haired.They neither raised heads nor eyes
through the meeting, but at the invitation, Flame stood to addressthe
congregation.
"We
hain't Turnip Tircker,but if Peg Poll can be changedand God done
it, then I'm fer God. We lost a lot o' businessto the Army and tried to even
'er
for bunglin'. But she didn't bash us
the score. Paid Peg Poll and beat
Poll, we're fixin' t' gi' Jesusa
to
Peg
paid
no
mind.
Due
She
back.
chance."
The Test I 93
Flame and her girls filed
congregation in a song:
to the penitent-form
as Eliza led the
Who'll be the next to follow Jesus?
Who'll be the next His crossto bear?
Someoneis rcady,somconeis waiting,
Who'll be the next a crown to wear?
The next morning came General Booth's reply:
LeftenantShirley:
I do not wish you to go to the United Statesof America. We have
enoughto busy ourselvessavingEngland.But if you must go then start it
on the lines of the Army and if it goesforward I may seefit to call it The
SalvationArmy and take it over.
William Booth
GENERAL
"Leffy,
"said
"we're just
Captain Annie,
smoothin' into double
harness. I'll miss you, but this is the fingero'God. Don't delay. You said
'gainst
the General said to even go
him if God told you-now
He's tellin'
you."
Eliza sangat her farewellmeeting,"I'll go in the strengthof the Lord, in
paths He has marked for my feet. . . " A second farewell was held in
Coventry,conductedby Captain Elijah Cadmanafter anotherBooth son,
Herbert, was sentto dissuadeEliza and, if he failed, to againcautionher to
"make it Army in
every respect." Eliza and her mother agreed.
At the Coventryfarewell, Cadmanpresentedthe two with a handful of
Penny Songbooks,publishedjust weeks earlier by the Army. Handing
them jubilantly, half to each, he stated:"l want to have a finger in that
piel"
Eliza kept wonderingwhat was in the pie. . .
HISTORIETTE
Victorian America
'80s,
"liberated" the black man, the
havingfinally
During the 1870sand
United Stateswas indulgently eagerto liberateherself and soughtescape
from every possiblerestriction. Americans built an enorrnousvariety of
privateand public edifices,the upperclasscharacterizedby ornamentation
as extravagantas bulging purseswould permit. There were multiple ways
"Pullman" palaces,
investments,the use
in which to spendmoney:private
bikes,
such
as
typewriters,
high-wheeled
of newly invented miracles
"lover's
Marvelous
the
telegraph,"
the
telephone.
lamps
and
incandescent
innovationswere being made in a basicallyagriculturalsociety,especially
in farm implementsand machinery.
Streetswere still lighted by gas, but horsecarswere being replacedby
locomotives and mail-order houses brought treasuresto the nation's
doorstep.Indianshad lost their battle with the white man, but on June25,
1876, they made a last dramatic stand when they massacredGeneral
George Custer and 264 of his men at the Little Big Horn. The Ku Klux
Klan was involved in fiery declaration, and the common people were
beginning to rebel, showing their intentionsin organizedgroups. Women
were beginning to speak for themselves,especially as suffragettesand
Women'sChristianTemperanceUnion members,more popularlyknown as
the anti-whiskey women.
Immigrants from southern Europe flocked into the States and joined
soldiersof the Civil War, moving in Conestogawagons
with dispossessed
to the west, where there was plenty of room to grow with their dreams.
There was also phenomenalgrowth in the border cities of the east, where
workerswithout moneyor job skills settledas machinistsand mill workers.
Few, however, could afford the smallest cottages and most became
tenementresidents.Coal, oil and steel made multimillionaire barons of
determinedand sometimesill-motivatedmen. It was the day of JayGould,
Jim Fisk, Andrew Carnegie,William K. Vanderbilt,John D. Rockefeller,
and of the meat-packingkings: Swift, Hormel and Cudahy. The new
journalism was also being hailed, with editors intent on circulation,
sometimes at the expense of truth-and certainly balance. Reporters
snooped for scoops.
The machine age had begun. Henceforth America would dependlargely
on money to measure its successand gentility. Great wealth bred great
poverty. Though church membership, attendance, and Sabbath keeping
were semicompulsorywithin families, and few celebrantschanged de-
94
Victorian America I 95
nominations,few as yet relatedChristianityseriouslyto responsibilityfor
the deprivedand depraved.Tokengestureswere madein the breadline,but
the God who seenied to cajole the rich seemed unrelated to the waifs,
widows and wild-eyeddrunkswho soiledthe seamon the garmentof silken
Victorian society in America. A small but enthusiasticgroup of the
"radicals," debatedthe issuesof
intelligentsia,university-basedscholar
Darwinism, Marxism and liberal religious thought-a small but potent
leaven.
Habitual drunkennesswas concededto be the curse of Satan, and little
was done to combat it. Gross evils of the day were recognizedto be
and lethargy,with the burdenof responsibility
drunkenness,licentiousness
placed entirely on the wrongdoer.Mentally and physically handicapped
and disturbedpersonsbore almost equal shame.
"the Golden Age;" others referred to it as
To many, this period was
"gilded." Sometimesthe gilt seemedalreadyto be chipping and the frame
of society cracking. But it was a bright, if impossible picture in that
frame-gaudily representativeof a promised land for which so many
hearts yearned, a land of milk and honey.
Major Annie Shirlet,
(M r.t. Amos), dit'i.cional
commurulerrl the
Massochusettsand M uine
Division
紙
中
勲
￨
Ar7/″
ra″rA"″′
でS力′
r′
イrs A′″ρs),
リィ丹
sedtdl. o divi.sittrtul ofticar. ubout 1884.
Captain and Mrs. Amos Shirlet
(EIiztis pdrents, ubout 1880)
鰹猶撲牌暇ペ
El iza Shirley S1'mmonds
und husbond, Philip,
shrtrtlr ulier marriage in
/885
ピ
Eliza, seated third from leJi (Jrcnt row), and her children
Commandant Eliza
5,,-mmonds,50th
anniversarv ol the Armv's
work in Philadelphia,
October 5. 1929
ぞ
Atuie
Stnrrunuls, El i:a's daughter.
uge .five
Gertrude and Shirlcr (bot)
Symmonds. EIi:u's t'hi ldren
Seated: Rubt',y'oungestchild, antl Adjurant Eliza Symmonds:
Stan(ing: Daist'and Evu. The mother ond three tlttug,htershud a qu(trtette.
Eliza plated the autoharp, Era the mantlolin. and Daist'and Rubt',guitars.
Thev sanq os ther pluved.
Annie Symmonds
Knutlsen, Eli:u's
daughter, Ytung People's
SergeetntMujor in
Racine, Wisconsin,1924
Duist Symmuds, Elizu's
duughter,ubour l9l0
タ
Captain Shirley
Sy'mmonds,Eliza's
second child and only
son
Ensign Gertrude
Symmonds,right, 1916or
1917
ymmonds, right, one of the
seventhcontingentof doughnut girls.
ご″Sを″ Cで rrr″冴で sメ″初ο″″S,れ F″ ″cで sでrッタど 舟″αrcカ プ卯 8 rο ′″″タア979
Everald Knudsen,
duughterol Annie
SymmondsKnudsen;
granddaughter of Eliza ;
in 19-13
Mrs. Adjutant Russell
Crowell (Everald Knudsen),
in 1944
Cadet Gary Crowell, Eliza's greatgrandson.
Son of Everald Knudson Crowell and
grandson of Annie SymmondsKnudsen
疑奎
′
′
冴Crοltで
R″ssで″α″冴どッタ/α′
,メ98θ
Before Their Conversion
脚
'
J坐
TurribleTurnip
姥 gFし ′
′
Chapter V
ME
NEW
COUNTRY
.$.hr
d
rheil
TIME:
\8t'oq,lt.".i.j:l:r
"-.*..
August,1879
PLACE: Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania
SETTING:A Third-floorWalk-up
"Perfection!" cried Eliza
on her welcometour of the Shirley apartment
which Amos had waiting, fully furnished-or as fully furnishedas it was
going to be. "Papa, how ever did you find it? Just like home. Perfectl
Perfectl Perfectl"
Amos and Annie laughed outright as Eliza leaped to mid-kitchen to
smooththe massiveround oak table, pull out a high-backedpine chair, sit
stiffly againstits delicatespindles.She tappedthe deep-grainedtop, much
as Amos had done in Coventry."Board meetingwill pleasecome to order.
We are met to consider the imminent-no eminent-invasion of the
United Statesof America by The SalvationArmy." She looked intently out
the kitchen window, still bareof the lace curtainsAnnie had squeezedinto
their luggage, at the drab walk-ups acrossthe way, and at the cerulean
summersky. "Will membersbe seatedas the leftenantconductsa prayerof
dedication'1"
Amos and Annie exchangedglancesof wonder then took positionson
eitherside of Eliza.
"Proceed.
Leftenant-er Lieutenant,"said Amos, kneelingbesidehis
chair and folding his hands.Annie and Eliza followed.
"Father
in Heaven," Eliza began, "we thank Thee for our blessed
reunion, fbr all that is ahead. As Thou knowest, this is no small order,
winning the United Statesfor Thee. Nor is our requestthat Thee direct
every step and keep us marchingforward-especially when we can't see
the step,orjust can't believeit's correct.But thatis Thy concern,nor ours.
105
106/ PREACHING LADIES
Thank Thee for tempting me towardThy Kingdom as the devil temptsme
againstit. Thank Thee for Papaand Mama. Thank Thee for their vision
and their strength,and their willingnessto sacrifice.Thank Thee that they
are mine as well as Thine. Thank Thee for me, Lord. I'm glad to be me,
but sometimesin the stressof battle I might forget that. Poke me to
'We go forth not to battle 'gainst sinnersbut sin,' to tear down
remember.
the devil's kingdom and build Thine. There'sa big, big battleup ahead.
Lead on, dear HeavenlyFather.In the name of our captain, christ Jesus.
Amen."
Thus was the round table dedicatedto the honor and glory of God and
the serviceof mankind, also staircases,mottoes,crockery,antimacassars,l
kitchen, parlor, bedroomsand bathingroom, the last being a questionable
novelty to Annie and Eliza who heretoforehad been familiar only with
commodes,chamberpots, china pitchersand wash basinsfor ablutions.
Thus was Philadelphia, the united States and the continent of North
America capturedby faith for the Kingdom of Christ through His militant
marchers.Though the new home was sparselyfurnishedcomparedto their
cottagein coventry, not a word of lamentcamefrom the three.They were
so happy to be together again and to be conscious of their great
commission.After prayer,the first cup of tea and more recitationof back"Papa, I know God's already chosenthe proper
home news, Eliza said,
meetinghall for us. BishopAucklandand captain Allsop taughtme a lot
aboutprayer.Isaiah65:24 reads,'Beforetheycall, I will answer;andwhile
"God always answers'
they are yet speaking,I will hear." She continued,
Wejust don't alwaysknow it-and sometimeswe cut off the answerbefore
He gets the last stitch in. If you could have seen Him hustling about in
B i s h o pA u c k l a n d ! "
Amos smiled as if he had seen.
"And it's only the beginning'darlin'. Only the beginning'"
"Exactly," said Annie, "and Lizzie' when your papa hears about my
decision,he'll be evenhappier.This seemsa propertime to tell' Love, you
know what a struggleit was for us both to give Lizzie altogetherto God.
Yet it's beeneven more painful to give me." She flushed, looking steadily
"I'm not an easy woman to convince. Naturally
from one to the other.
strong, follow my own mind. As your papawill tell you, Lizzie, twice we
were called to full-time service.Twice we refused.I was too burdened,or
too ill, or too old. And when the Hallelujahs came to Coventry they
representedwhat I'd longedfor yet fearedcould enslaveme. I didn't really
want women'sfreedomfor the ministry, for then I might be constrainedto
J*i*urrur:
cover to protectthe back or arms of fumiture'
The New Country I 107
be a woman preacher.I was determinedto remainin possession
of my own
will even if this mandatedexclusion of my Creator's," She twisted her
handkerchief."That's what I cameto grips with on boardship. Lizzie, if
it's acceptable
to your father,I'm happyto serveas a full-time volunteer,
singing,praying,preachingand anythingelseGod callson me to be andto
do."
The three burst into laughterratherthan prayer,huggedand kissed.
"And I, darlin'
Lieutenant."said Amos, "am mosteagerto acceptthe
positionof treasurer
and treasuryuntil sucha time asGod sendsshowersof
blessing-in gold pieces."
They sat down to anothercup of tea and talk.
"Mama
and I may go searchingtomorrowmorningfor our citadel," said
Eliza.
Amos smiled.
"You've
no qualmsaboutlady preachersanymore?"
"None."
"Administrators?"
"We
can do whateverGod calls us to do. And whateverthe investment,
t'will be a small price for victory."
The next day Eliza and Annie set out early, searchingall day with no
prospects.Another day and anotheruntil, after a week's time, they were
coming home one evening, feet dragging, hot and hungry, when they
"For
noticed a
Rent" sign on a dilapidatedold chair factory at Sixth and
Oxfbrd Streets.The doors were ajar so they inspectedit. Only four walls
and a roof, the windows shattered,roof shot with holes and earth floor
strewn with machinebits. It was dusty and cobwebbedand exudedstale
barn odors. A bony horse chewedin one corner.
Annie was appalled.
"Lizzie, this is
no proper place for worship. Peoplewould never come
insideit."
Eliza mused,almostto herself,"Remember,Mama, Jesuswas born in a
stable.This is quite good enoughfor the birth of The SalvationArmy in
America."
Annie was poking into comers.
"l know I
don't have your imagination but Lizzie, just look at the
ceiling-and no floor. How on earth would we manageenoughforms for a
barn as big as this?"
"We
won't haveto," said Eliza. "God will. Let'sjust thank Him."
Annie lookedhesitant.
"All
right." She knelt beside Eliza. "Lizzie, Iet's recite that answer
verse.How doesit begin?"
IO8 / PREACHING LADIES
"'Before
they call, I will answer; while they are yet speaking,I will
hear."'
After prolongedprayernext morning, Eliza and Annie went to seekthe
landlord and found him in a downtownoffice, a portly personwith heavily
waxed mustacheseatedbehind a mahogany desk. He looked at them
curiously-two tiny women dressedin what appearedto be mourning,
with small black bonnetsinsteadof veils and no touch of ornament.
"So you want to rent the old chair factory?Have you seenit?"
"We were out thereyesterdayafternoon," replied Eliza. "lt will needa
lot of cleaningand whitewashand strawfor a floor beforewe can useit, but
I think it will answerour purpose."
"What
do you want it for?"
"We want it for The SalvationArmy."
"My Godl" saidthe man, "what'sthat?I've heardof theCitizens'Army
and the White Ribbon Army, but I've neverheardof The SalvationArmy.
What or who is The SalvationArmY?"
"We
are The SalvationArmY."
"You are what?"
"We are The Salvation Army. It's the militant arm of the Christian
,
Church."
"Oh? And where does this SalvationArmy hail from?"
"lt was startedby William Booth in London'seastend in 1865," said
"for
the poorestof the poor. though othershave now joined. My
Annie,
husbandemigratedtoPhiladelphialastAprilandimmediatelyrealizedthe
l
need for The SalvationArmy to invade the United States.Our daughter
Eliza, being a commissionedleften-lieutenant in the Army-has been
given permissionto open fire in Philadelphia."
"Open fire? Invade?Very military. Folks won't like that attitudecoming
from Britain. Still a lot of bad blood. And who is going to preach?"
"Oh, we do the preaching,sir," said Eliza.
"You mean a woman preacher?" He choked, "Why, we don't have
women preachersin Arnerica. This country'sgot enoughtrouble with the
suffragettesand anti-whiskeywomenl The police would run you out if you
ridiculous!
tried to do that! Peopleherewouldn't standfor it. Preposterous,
I wouldn't rent to you underany circumstances."
"We
don't want to rush you now for an answer,sir," said Eliza, backing
toward the door.
"Never mind coming back! I wouldn't think of
He yelled after them,
renting the place for that purpose.Womenpreacherswould neverdo in the
United Statesof America!"
"Oh, sir, don't decide now, please," Eliza pleaded. "We'll come back
tomorrow for your decision."
The New Country I lO9
"Don't bother!" he boomed."This is final!"
At home they explainedthe dilemma to Amos.
"We'll just take the matterto the Lord," he said. "Now that we're at the
end of our rope, He'll put down His."
When they rose from prayerhe said he guessedhe'd saunterout to the
old factory to have a look. The women watchedhis return in the bright
moonlight. His step was firm and lively.
"The place is ours," he said calmly. "We'll get it. The Lord has given
me the promise."
Annie went to steepthe tea, Eliza to set the cloth and china. The next
morning, armedwith Bibles and determination,Eliza and Annie boardeda
horsecar,intent on convincingthe landlord, who was inexplicablycordial
and for half an hour chattedabout the pleasantday, Coventrygardensand
the friendly city of Philadelphia.Suddenlyhe stopped.
"Now,
about that factory. I've been thinking the matter over and have
come to the conclusionthat it might just as well be in useas standingidle."
He was smiling and indulgent.They could havethe place for $300 a year.
He would not ask for the rent in advancenor require that they lease.He
knew the work would be a failure. Nobody would come to church there,
but if their hearts were set on it, it was their business,only it must be
understoodthat he would do no repairs. He did not mention women
preachersbut handed Eliza a big brown key.
"Now, having said all that, if I can in any way be useful,
come and see
me."
They went home ecstatic.
"Wonder of wonders!" said Annie.
"Perfect!" said Eliza clutching the key. "Perfectl"
The big iron key! It
seemedto Eliza that it must unlock the whole of America. That night they
had their second board meeting around the kitchen table. Eating and
drinking were always communion to them, and God's presenceseemed
especiallycloseat the kitchentable, nearwhich hung a motto which began:
..CHITTsT.
IS THE UNSEEN GUEST AT EVERY MEAL. THE SILENT LISTENER To
EVERY CONVERSATION.''
"Now, then," Eliza began, "urgent needs must
be voted on. We'll
considerseveralloadsof sawdustfor a floor, the whitewashingof the walls,
procurement of sufficient lumber for a big platform. We must have forms
for at least 50 soldierson the platform."'
Having discussedthe most pressingmattersthey took up the matter of
roof repair and window lights, and decidedagainstaction.
rlt was at that time customary in the Army to seat soldiers and converts on the rostrum, 50
being a good minimal number. Twenty converts were required to start a corps.
lIO / PREACHING LADIES
"What
we must keep in mind, Lieutenant," said Amos, "is that for the
presentthere is only the treasurer'streasuryavailablefor disbursements.
However,the weathershould hold for some time and very soon the Army
shall minister to crowds of happy converts, and collections will cover
additional expense."
"Amen!"
said Eliza, clappingher hands.
"Amens
are fine," said Annie, "but they won't get the job done. Let's
list assignmentsand check them off as finished. We'll mark them with a
star."
The restorationschedulewas a strict one; Annie and Eliza labored all
day for a month, with Amos joining them after work. A lamb sandwichor
pasty then pound and paint till near midnight. They set the grand opening
for October5, 1879,four days befbreEliza's lTth birthday.They procured
"Blood
scarlet posters with
and Fire!" on them, and of course "The
SalvationArmy" prominently lettered.
"How
shall we word us?" asked Eliza. "How about 'Two Preaching
Ladies Will Open Fire on the Devil's Kingdom'? Like Captain Reynolds
did in Coventry."
" 'Hallelujah Lassies,' what most
is
of the recent posterssay," said
Annie.
Amos shook his head.
"Neither is
appropriate. Lizzie isn't a lady yet, and, Love," he smiled
"you're not
disarmingly at Annie,
exactly a lassie.Hadn't we better say
'Two Hallelujah Females'?Two HallelujahFemaleswill
speakand sing for
Jesusin the Old Chair Factory at Sixth and Oxford Streets,October 5,
1 8 7 9 - l l a . m . , 3 p . m . a n d 8 p . m . A l l a r e i n v i t e d .H o w ' s t h a t ? "
"Perfect!"
Eliza said
"Acceptable,"
said Annie.
Amos was the placard-postingcommittee. which meant that when he
arrived from work a day or two a week, he'd gobble a suppersandwich,
take a bundle of posters,with hammerand nails and a bucketof paste,and
plaster them from one end of town to the other. If there were an ordinance
against bill posting he was not aware of it. Three or four days before the
opening date, the SalvationFactory, named for Coventry'sbeloved barracks, was ready.The Shirleyshad hung kerosenelarnpsin place,had built
their platform, and the sweetodor of whitewashand sawdusthad overcome
to some extent the foul stenches.But now there was another grave
problem. Their money was gone and they had no bencheswhatsoever
but near despair,they knelt to petition
Surveyingtheir accomplishments
The New Country I lll
"God
doesn't want all those poor folk
the Almighty because,Eliza said,
sitting on the damp earth."
"Well, praise the Lord anyhow!" said Annie, kneeling. "At least we
outprayedthe landlord and have a home for our Army."
"God's Army, Love," said Amos. "An Army's home is on the
battlefield-the street.We've got to rememberwe shan'thavea real home
until we've crossedto Glory."
"Darlin' Amos," Annie patted him. "You're so rhetorical. Always
thinking of the heretofore and the hereafter.What I'm concernedabout is
today."
"No hurry. Eternity's full of time-or beyond it."
"Time is all we haveat present.Here we are readyto begin our monster
crusadewithout a single bench and not a copper to buy one."
"I'll be paid a week from Saturday."
"Meanwhile we must eat, though it be buns, beansand tea."
"Don't fret, Mama," said Eliza. "The benchesare ours if we truly want
them. Let's seekthe throne of grace. You're first."
"We've gone our limit, dear Lord," reported Annie. "Now it's Your
turn."
"We know the answeris on its way. Thank You, dearGod. Thank Youl"
prayed Eliza. "Just help us to hold on until-"
"May I trouble you for a moment?" A masculinevoice intemrptedas a
tall, distinguishedwhite-beardedgentlemancrossedto Amos and held out
"The Lord
a roll of bills.
told me to bring this to you. I don't know what
you want it for, but here it is-just what the Lord told me to give you."
"Praise God! PraiseGod!" cried Eliza. The three pressedthe visitor's
handsand God-blessedhim menily. They knew all right and told him so.
The money he'd contributedwould buy seatingfor 125 persons.
October5, 1879,dawnedbright, clear and balmy. Everythingwas ready.
A bite of breakfast,some earnestprayer and off they went, a Salvation
Army brigadeof three.They sanga songin the residentialdistrict a couple
of blocks from the SalvationFactory,as the woodenderelict building was
now called. But apart from folk glancingat them throughscreendoors and
windows, no interestor enthusiasmwas manifested.They didn't attempt
"We're bound for the land
an open-airmeetingbut merely sangtheir song,
of the pure and the holy, O say will you go to that Eden above?" and went
to the Factoryfor the first holinessmeeting.They expectedevery chair to
be filled but found only 12 people.
Eliza's faith was severelytested.Why? We've done everythingpossible.
II2 / PREACHING LADIES
And we've believed,Lord. We've really believed.What now? Don't You
care? Aren't You going to answer? Suddenly she wanted t6 run-run
anywhere,go back to England, close her mind to The SalvationArmy, to
whitewash and dirt and leaky roofs and insensitivepeople who didn't
understandand didn't want to be saved.She wantedto closeher Bible and
her mind.
"Papa,"
she wailed. "God's not answering.Why doesn't He make the
people come?"
Amos was unnaturally curt.
"'O ye of little faith.'
What do you supposethe Master thinks of you
right now?"
Very well. Eliza was hurt by Amos' attitude, which compounded her
anxiety.Very well. Her lips compressed.On with the meeting,on with the
marching. On with the battle whether she wantedto or not. And it was a
good little meeting-Amos with his concertinaand Annie with her violin
making the old Factory dance with sacred melody. By the final prayer,
Eliza was herselfonce more. "I know, Papa.God won't crury what we can
manageourselves.We must find a good open-air standwhere we can reach
the people." On investigationthey found a spotwherefive streetsmet, with
a saloon on every corner.
"That's it!" Eliza
clappedher hands. "Perfect!" Then they went home
to lunch and prayer and at 2 p.m. reached the spot again. All three were
blessed with good open-air voices and sang loudly, "Oh, we're going to
wear a crown, to wear a starry crown!"
Almost immediately the saloonsemptied and a crowd of severalhundred
surroundedthem, hooting, hissing,jiggling, andjoggling until the Shirleys
were in danger of being swept off their feet. The crowd would listen to no
speaking but were charmed with their singing. They sang and sang and
sang, trying several times to testify and read Scripture, but to no avail.
Finally, Eliza said, "Good friends, thank you for listening. We'll be back
tonight to tell you more about Jesus.Now, you are all invited to follow our
march to the SalvationFactory a block or two away,where a great time will
be had by all."
They lined up in single file, made a sharp right turn and marched away,
singing as they went. About 100 people followed but when they looked at
the Factory, refused to enter. Inside, 20 people waited to worship, mostly
Christians, and, in the estimation of the congregation, it was a fine
meeting. Eliza was severely disappointed, her tension mounting again.
There's got be a way, some way. Nothing should stop them when they'd
The New Country I ll3
met all the conditions,worked, believed.What was wrong? What was all
that about God answering before they'd even asked?Did it apply only to
some and sometimes?
"Darlin'
"even
Lizzie," Annie told her,
General Booth experienced
great difficulties in the beginning.Tenible things happenedto him."
"But
"Things
they happened,"saidEliza.
happened.Nothing'shappening to us. Peoplejust ignore us. Mama, we must be doing something
wrong. Why doesn't God honor His own work?"
Amos and Annie could only counsel patience.At seveno'clock they
were back at the five-saloon corner open-air meeting stand. This time an
enorrnouscrowd waitedfor them, mostly saloonhabitues,well armedwith
mud, sticks, stones,refuse,rottenvegetablesand a deadcat. The Shirleys
made a ready target,but did their best singing,and againmarchedawayto
the indoor meeting, where a small group enjoyed another "salvation
show," as some less delicatesouls termed the meeting. Every night the
persecutiongrew more fierce until the Shirleysdecidedthat they must seek
protection from the mayor.
"We'll just march
right in and confront him with the need," said Eliza.
"After
all, Philadelphiaand the safetyof its residentsis his responsibility."
Upon inquiry, Eliza and Annie were waved into the august presenceof
His Honor, where Eliza explained the purposeof their street meetings and
asked his protection from the ruffianly throng.
"Are you
telling me that you do the preaching-you two women?"
"Yes,"
"I am
said Eliza.
a commissionedlieutenantin The Salvation
Army and my mother is a full-time volunteer in this campaign."
"What
campaign?"
"To
win America for Jesus."
"Nonsense! Pure nonsense!You British women
are the causeof this
disturbance. Corybantic3 Christianityl Women preachers! You keep off
Philadelphia streets with your fanaticism or I'll have you arrested for
disturbing the peaceand inciting to riot." His eyesbulged. "The city of
brotherly love will stand no such tomfoolery."
"Please,
Your Honor, we but beg for open-air meeting privileges such as
are accorded a circus procession. We intend to remain. We intend to
becomecitizens. We intend to win this depravedcity to Jesus.Help us!"
"You're menace
a
here already.No telling what could happenif you got
a foothold. I won't help you and the only way you can hold meetingsin the
rCorvbantic: ecstatic. or frenzied.
II4 / PREACHING LADIES
outdoorsis to seethe owner of a lot somewhereand get his consentto use
it. Then, and then only, will the mayor of Philadelphia give you
protection."
Disheartened, Eliza and Annie retreated.
"Oh, Mama; what shall we do? Old fbrktail is after us, isn't he?"
"The devil has
But when they encounteredAmos, he was unperturbed.
"You'll see."
overshothis mark again," was all he said.
They had anotherboard meeting, prayed and went out to seek some
friendly soul who would allow them to conduct an open-air meeting on
private property. The best they could find was eight blocks from the
Factory in a dark residentialdistrict.
"We
certainlydon't needprotectionhere," said Eliza when they arrived
"Hardly soul passesby." However,they held
a
and surveyedthe battlefield.
their service and marcheddown the middle of GermantownRoad to the
Factory, singing every step of the way, only to find that even the few who
followed would not go in. They did find the same25 presentwho always
attendedbut would not or could not go to the open-airmeeting.
For four weeks this was their routine. Every night, three times on
Sunday. Hardly a soul more inside, and not one saved. Eliza lost her
appetite.She struggledto readher Bible, to pray. Often she felt blank and
would catchherselfsitting and staring-neither savingnor sinful thoughts
engaging her brain. Just nothing. Annie became short-temperedand
demanding. Hadn't they better seek anotherplace? A different kind of
placard? PerhapsAmos should ask for a raise. Amos alone was calm. He
"The devil
irked, evenantagonizedthe womenat times with his assurance,
has overshothis mark again. You'll see." But no one proposedto quit the
fight.
On Saturdayof the fourth week, Eliza and Annie had hastenedto clean
house, iron, cook and bake for the weekend,as they touchedneither pan
nor pencil nor needleon the Sabbath.They satdown to oncemore talk over
the situationand to pray.
"Dear Lord," said Annie, "the yeasthas risen, the pots are boiling, the
teakettleis singing. Now we trust Thee for the feast. Thank Thee."
"It's quite all right, dear Father," prayedEliza. Thank Thee. Amen."
"Hallelujah 'tis done! I
They rose to their feet, uplifted and singing,
"
believe on the Son; I'm savedby the blood of the crucified One. . .
Marching to their open-air stand near five-saloon corner, the trio found
great commotion.
Eliza could hardly keep from shouting.
"Look! Hundreds and hundredsand hundredsof people! What is it,
Papa?"
"Looks like all the fire wagonsin Philadelphia."
The New Country I ll5
They marchedon, singing though unheeded,then sighed with relief.
Mischievousboys must haveset tarbarrelsafire and there was still a great
blaze, but no lives forfeited, no preciousproperty destroyed.Their time
had come! They sang more loudly as they marched:
Traveler,
whitherart thougoing,
HeedlessoJthe cloudsthat form?
NaughtJbr me the wind'sroughblowing,
There'sa land withouta storm.
For I'm going,,yesI'm going
To that land that has no storm.
The crowd enclosedthem. In the warm autumnquiet the flames in the
barrelsnow beganto accentuatethe songas they died. Amos steppedclose
to a barrel and delivereda short message.As he finished, an unshaven
tattered giant pushed his way through and, shaking Amos' shirtsleeve,
wept drunkenly,"Diya meanthat?Will God take the Devil's castawaysand
'em
make
men?"
"All
true, my brother," said Amos.
"Then
let Him try. By God let Him try!" cried the drunkenman. ..I gave
up on myself long ago. Like PresidentLincoln said, a deadduck can't fly
far."
"Come
along with us." Thking his arm, Amos marchedhim along the
streetas the Shirleyssangtheir way back to the Factory,followed now by
hundredsupon hundredsofthe curious,all ofthem acquaintedwith Reddy,
the most notoriousdrunk in town. what hocus-pocuswould thesestrange
Britishers work? Who were they? Where did they come from and why?
couldn't they see Reddy was as dull as Monday and soakedto the gills?
Amos enteredthe Factory with the big drunk. Their Factory was full!
Jam-packed,with people hanging on windowsills and peering in through
every crack. To the astonishmentof onlookers the Shirleys put the
applicantto sleepbehindthe platform, Amos taking off his tunic to make a
soft pillow and coveringhim with the women's capes.
"Now,
then," said Eliza, patting their charge, ,.you lie down there and
sober up whilst we conduct service."
curious bystanderswho couldn't get inside listenedto an eyewitness
accountfrom a window-watcherperchedon a sill.
"They're
putting him ro bed!"
"They're
going to sing, 'Brightly beams.'We'll sing too."
"The girl
in black saysshe'ssavedby the grace of God."
"Now,
they're taking up a collection."
The outdoor congregation took up its own collection and passed it
through the window. Eliza talked briefly from the Scriptures, and,
immediatelyafter, the window-watchercautionedhis congregation.
116/ PREACHING LADIES
"Shhh!
≡
．
■ ■ ， ４≡ 享 一 モ ≡
They'rebringinghim out from behind.He can't stand.The man
is almost lugging him. They're making him kneel at the form and advising
him to pray to Jesus.Look at him shake!He's sobbingand praying fit to
kill. But they'll neverstraightenout ol'Reddy. Hey, Reddy!Reddyl"
A chorusof greetingswent up from the man'smates.Eliza turnedto the
congregation.
"Dear
friends, if some cannot be in an attitude of prayer, they must at
least allow us holy quiet as the battle for this dear man's soul, our first
convert for Jesus in America, is onl Pray, oh dear friends, pray for
victory!"
The crowd ceased sneering, singing, spitting, hissing, whispering.
Indeed,they seemedevento breathein rhythm now lest too much heaving
disturb-waiting and waiting and waiting. For perhapsten minutesall that
could be heardwere greatsobsfrom the kneeler.The Shirleysknelt beside
him, their Bibles open. At times Eliza would lead in a soft prayerchorus
but for the most part silence enfolded the Factory. People were deeply
interestednow, drunk and sober,ribald and righteous. Then incredulity
gripped the more than 1,000 personspresentas the huge raggedpenitent
rose to his grimy, half-barefeet, still weeping, shaky,but cold sober.
Holding him by the elbow, which was aboutat her chin level, Eliza said,
"Dear friends, we greet a new friend-Reddy-a new creaturein Christ
Jesus.Listen now to his testimony."
Reddy was too moved to speak immediately, but the crowd waited
without clamor. He wiped his eyes and nose, dusted off his shabby
trousers.
clothesline-belted
"Many here will not believe this but I know tonight I am savedfrom
despair,degradation,rottennessand ruin. I don't understandthis Presence,
but I know He is here, He is real, and He's mine." He blew his nose.
"Many
of you know me. Thirty-five yearsof steadydecline. I'm glad my
parents didn't live to watch it. I shamed them as much as they loved
Philadelphia-but chief'ly I shamedmy Maker. There is little reasonfor
you to believe what I say.The calendaralone must be my witness.Thank
you."
It was an awesometestimony:no Christianjargon, no orthodoxreligious
pattern.Scion of a prominentlocal family, Reddywas known by many and
shunnedby all but his drinking mates.Of course,there were many who
stoppedto tell the Shirleysthat Reddy was a wasteof time, but they went
home with a thousandhallelujahsin their hearts.
"We've got our crowd!" Eliza exulted. "We've got our answer and
we've seen the penitent-form bathed with the tears of the first Army
convert in Americal He will be faithful." And that was true.
SERWION BY ELIZA
How To Be a Hero
"Now whentheysaw the
boldnessof Peterand John,andperceived
that theywereunlearnedand ignorantmen,theymarveled;and they
tookknowledge
of them,thattheyhad beenwithJesus"(Acts4:13).
The circumstancesconnectedwith the text are familiar. It was not long
after the descentof the Holy Ghost on the day of Pentecostthat, directing
their footstepstoward the temple at the hour of prayer, Peterand John were
about to pass through the gate called Beautiful when an appealfor alms
reachedtheir ears. Here was a poor cripple lame from birth who had been
carried by sympatheticfriends or neighbors and lay at the gate of the
temple so that as worshiperspassedby he might beg a coin.
When the cripple saw Peterand John,he simply madethe beggars'plea,
little dreaminghe was about to receivethat which wealth can't buy. peter
and Johnstoodstill and said, "Look on usl" The poor fellow looked. Then
Petersaid, "Silver and gold haveI none but such as I havegive I thee.In
the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!"
He took rhe fellow by the right hand and lifted him up. I do not know
what sort of sensationhe felt in the poor powerlessfeet and ankle bones,
but it was evidently a thrill of new life, a thrill of vitalizing power,for he
stood, he walked, he leapedand in astonishedwonder and praiseentered
the Temple with the apostles,glorifying God.
Now, the design of this miracle seems to have been to arouse the
attention of the multitude, to causethem to inquire about the power by
which it had beenwrought, and so vivid is the descriptionof all the events
connectedwith it that one can almostseethis new discipleclinging to peter
and Johnin loving gratitude.He had chosentheir Saviourto be his Saviour
and boldly took his stand with them. When the people looked upon him,
saw what had happenedand heard his shoutsof praise, they were filled
with amazement.So greatwas their astonishmentthat when Peternoted it
he beganto preachJesusto them.
"Yemenrf Israel, whymarvelye
at this?Or whylookye so earnestly
on us,as thoughby our ownpoweror holiness
wehadmadethisman
"
to walk?" Petercontinued, . . . theGodof ourftithershathgtorified
His SonJesus;Whomye deliveredup anddeniedHim in thepresence
of Pilate, when he was determined to let Him go . . . But ye denied the
Holy One and the just aruLkilled the prince of life, whom God hath
raisedfrom the dead; whereofwe are witnesses,and . . . throughfaith
in His name hath made this man stronp" (Acts 3:12-16).
(Sermon quotedfrom Eliza Shirley'spapers held by her granddaughter, Everald Knudsen
Crowell.)
117
II8 / PREACHING LADIES
There they stood in Solomon'sporch together:Peter and John and the
man upon whom the miracle had beenwrought, and the multitude. Peter's
preachingwas basedon fact. The healthyman at his side was his test, and
he led the people in thought away from himself to JesusChrist. The Lord
grant that I may do the same.The Lord grantunto me wisdom and powerto
lead your thoughtsaway from the preacherto the preacher'sGod.
While Peterthus spaketherewas a greatcommotion.The captainof the
laid hold on them and put them
Templeand the chief priestsand Sadducees
in custodyover night. The rest of the next day the rulers, elders, scribes,
Annas the high priest and many other distinguishedleadersdemandedto
know by what power they had wrought the miracle.
"If we this tlay be examinedof the good deeddoneto the impotent
man," satdPeter,"by whatmeanshe is madewhole;be it knownunto
you all . . . that by the nameof JesusChrist of Nazareth,whomye
crucified,whomGodraisedfromthedead,evenby Him doththisman
standherebeforeyou whole.Thisis thestonewhichwassetat naught
of you builders,which is becomethe headof the corner.Neither is
there salvationin any other:for there is none other name under
heavengivenamongmen,wherebywemustbe saved"(Acts4:9-12).
It was a wonderful speech, a speechwhich was almost more a miracle
than the cure of the lame man. I seem to see the amazementwhich
overspreadthe faces of Annas and Caiphas and all the other dignitaries as
"Who are thesetwo men? They are Galileansfor their speech
they asked,
betrayeththem. They are not educated.They are evidentlyunpolishedmen
from the workshop, the farm or the fishing boat. How did they obtain this
boldness?Where did they get this authority?"
The apostles entertained no thought of personal safety, no desire to
compromise.They had flung cautionto the winds, and right herewe recall
Peter'scowardly conduct in the houseof the high priest when he swore with
an oath that he knew not the Christ. What had happenedto Peter?Why this
change? What was it that had so transformed the trembling, shrinking
coward to make him almost unrecognizablein this heroic preacher?The
pentecostalpower had fallen upon him; the old cowardly self-seekingPeter
was dead. This was a new Pete! full of holy boldness.
The questionerswere amazed. They were amazedat Peter'seloquence.
"When
they saw the boldness
They were amazedat his boldness.It is said,
of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant
men, they marveled" (Acts 4:13). And as they marveled anotherscenerose
up before them. They seemed again to look upon the calm face of the
Nazarene. They recalled His unflinching heroic conduct, His perfect
composure when taunted and reviled and scourgdd and mocked. And as
How to Be a Hero I ll9
they looked upon these men, they recognizedin them the same spirit and
came to the conclusionthat they had beenwith Jesus.A thoughtoccursto
me here. It is said that men are known by the company they keep, but I
assertthat men becomelike the companythey keep.
It is a notable and Christlike thing to turn a sinner from the error of his
way, but you will neverdo that by walking with him in his ways, by sinking
to his level. Rememberthat as soon as you join handswith the world you
lose the friendship of Christ. Two cannot walk together except they be
agreed,and any person, howeverfascinatingand attractive, who leavesyou
thinking impure thoughts and belittling the beauty of righteousness,is a
dangerousperson. The Jewish dignitaries saw in Peter and John the
impress of divine friendship. They saw the same spirit. They took
knowledgeof them that they had been with Jesus.
The questionmay be asked, "What is it like to be with Jesus?"In the
daysof His earthly ministry He walked and talkedwith men. He was a man
among men. He touched with fingers of bone and blood and flesh the eyes
of the blind. He was not therean unseenLord and Master.The disciplesate
and drank with Him. They journeyed with Him, and John, the beloved
disciple, reclined on His bosom. Even after His resurrectionthey were
bidden to touch Him, to handleHim and seethat He was not a spirit. We
can readily understandwhat it meant to be with Jesusthen.
But what is it to be with Jesusnow? First, to be with Jesuswe must have
a Scripture knowledge of Christ. "And we know that the Son of God is
come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know Him that is
true; . . . even in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal
Itk" $ John 5:20). This is the first step to becomeacquaintedwith Christ,
to know Him not merely as the world's Saviour, the Christ of the ages, but
as your personal Saviour in the sensethat you are as certain as if you were
the only person living in the world for whom He died. When you know
Him thus you will be peaceful, purposeful, self-reliant, truly free and
joyful. You will know in your heart that you wlll never be alone again, that
you are a conqueror,'and that faith in Christ Jesus is the victory that
overcomesthe world.
How would you like to be recognized as one who has been with Jesus?
How would you like to be free, especially of yourself?
How would you like to becomea mighty builder of the Kingdom of God
on earth as it is in Heaven?
Chapter VI
Ⅵ卸 ORY!
TIME:
SabbathMorning, November,1879
PLACE:
VacantLot, Philadelphia
SETTING: Open-air Ring
"No
bottle, no rags, no stinking me!" testified Reddy,speakingin the
Sabbathopen-air meeting. "Some of you don't even recognizeme, do
you?"
There was no answerfrom the rapidly multiplying crowd. They stood
openmouthed,staring at Reddy in every variety of pose. Women had
rushedfrom breakfastdishes,tea towelsstill in hand;children half dressed
for sabbath school, curious tinkers and tailors, weaversand machinisrs
haltedfrom pursuit of a mug of ale. Five-salooncorner had emptiedlike a
kicked can of worms as informantsindicatedReddy'swhereaboutsand now
down the street pumped cordons of iron-visaged customers, whiskey
bottles in hand. Reddy helloed and waved, then continued.
"I'm
here to say JesusChrist savedand soberedme last night."
A derisiveroar was his exclamationpoint.
"Yahl
Yahl Come off it, Reddyl Come off it!,' Hundredsof gurtural
voices heckled the protest, dizzied the Shirleys with obsceneand blasphemousepithets.But Reddy was not to be halted.They would seethat he
was as surprisedas they, that he could no more understandwhat had
happenedthan they. But it was real. They would see.They would know.
"lt's
the god-awfultruth!" he shouted."I'm a new man, Mates!I don't
know Scripture.I've forgottenhow to be decent.But I know I,m forgiven,
and I know I'm changed."
The howls crescendoed,but R'eddytopped them. ..you godda-look
Mates, God set me straightand I vow I'll make it worth His while. This is
to give you warning. I'm coming after my old chums."
There was a pause. A long pause.Then the barragebegan, aimed at
121
I22 / PREACHING LADIES
Reddy but not strictly selective.First came whiskey and wine bottles,not
all empty; then sticksand stones,a sackof flour slit open, comcobs,rotten
eggs. Slingshotscame into action. By the time Shirley sympathizerscould
line up behindthem, the crowd was so densethey could hardly move off to
the Factory.singing:
Glory! Glory! Jesussavesme:
Glory! Glory! to the Lamb;
Oh, the cleansingblood hasreachedme:
Glory! GlorY! to the Lamb!
Battling five-corner habitues were reluctant to enter the Factory in
numbers so the meeting was relatively quiet, merely punctuatedfrom
outsidewith hoots and whistles, and intemrptedperiodically with odious
contributionstossedthrough broken windows. Reddy gave his testimony
with fervor and conviction, and by afternoonthe news had spreadover
Philadelphia that Reddy had been forward at The Salvation Army and was
going to preachthat night. The resultwas a packedbuilding and a meeting
in good order as the drunks seemedto have given their all during the openair attack. Windows and doors had to be left open to accommodatethe
overflow. There were seatsfor 125 personsin the Salvation Factory, and at
least700 additionalfolk had crowdedin, with severalhundredmore sitting
on windowsills and ringing the building. Reddy told his story with power'
"Casting all your care upon Him;
basingit on Scriptureselectedby Eliza:
for He carethfor you" $ Peter5:7).
Many eyeswere blinded by tears, and many hallelujahs arosefrom those
who were glad to encouragehim. Strangelyabsentwere the shoutedtaunts
of his former comrades. For three hours the audiencesat. Eliza described
"a real time of heaven on earth" as the Shirleys
the experienceas
accompaniedReddy to his cellar room that night.
"Reddy," Eliza exulted, trotting beside him, "you cre a miracle. God
will stitch up every tatter of your life into His perfect pattern. He's usedyou
to turn the tide in Philadelphia."
"Thank you, Lieutenant," Reddy grinned. "Time will tell the meaning
"We must keep in mind that a shrill teakettlecan be
best." He bent far over.
heard a long way, and some won't like that sound." He winked soberly.
The Shirleys insistedon seeinghis quartersand were appalledat what
they saw-a dank, dark cell of cementwith a dirt floor, bound straw in one
corner for a bed, upturned barrel for a table, with a tin tea canister and
biscuit box on top.
"Oh." gaspedEliza.
"Dear Jesus," said Annie. "My man, you can't keep sweet in this
Victory ll23
hellhole. You're coming home with us. Morning comes, Mr. Shirley can
see about work at the mill and we'll hunt you up a decent room."
Once in the Shirley home, with the teakettle bubbling and the mar_
malade and toast on the table, the four held a board meeting.
"I
don't understand,"said Reddy. "If this is what Christianityis, then
I've never encounteredit before. First, that you bothered with me at all.
Second,you didn't let me fend for myself. Here I am in Mr. Shirley'ssuit,
sitting big as life in the Shirley kitchen, eatingthe shirley food, having a
part in the great campaign as if I were a member of the family."
Eliza laughed,clapping her hands.
"That's
exactly what you are-part of the family of Jesus.we're actually
blood brothers and sisters now, Reddy."
"With
all the proper rights," said Amos.
"And
responsibilities,"addedAnnie, pouring the tea.
"Now
then," Eliza broke a biscuit in two, handinghalf to Reddy,..we'll
haveour boardmeeting." She indicatedthe biscuit. "That's our love feastr
tonight-something like communion, for we don't practiceit like others.
It's a symbol to use, this love feast, to be practiced any time, all the time.
Jesusmakesthe meal, so it's alwayscommunion, and it's always shared.
Sometimeswe have it in the hall, with testimonies.The breadcan be any
tidbit, the liquid, wateror any unfermentedjuice, or no liquid at all. It's the
sharingin the Saviour'sname that commendsit to us."
"Are
all the sacraments symbolic to The Salvation Armv?" Reddv
asked.
"Yes.
For instance, we do not baptize; we dedicateany and ail to God.
You see, Reddy, we believe in conversionthrough Jesus, so we can't
believe a man is savedor damned by any external rite."
Reddywas deeplyinterestedand Eliza, elated.Who would haveguessed
on Saturday night such understanding and intelligence. He must have
intuited her ruminations.
"I want
to tell you a little of my background," Reddy now told her,
"though
in respectto my family's memory, it's as well I'm not overly
public' My parents belonged to one of philadelphia's first families,
Begbie, Ifte Life of General William Booth, Vol. I, pp. 423_433...Do you
.rHarold
substituteanything," I askedthe General,"for the Sacraments?""oniy so far," he said,l.as
to urge our soldiers in every meal they take to remember,as they break the bread, the broken
body of our Lord, and as theydrink the cup, His shed blood; and every time they wash the
trody to remember that the soul can only be cleansed by the purifying bt*a or cnrirt
lroot
washing recalled)." " Your discipline is so very strong, General, that i should like to ask one
other question: 'would you be willing to sanction your soldiers being baptized and partaking
of-the Lord's Supper if they desired?' To this the General gave un ,nqritifi"d answer in the
affirmative."
I24 / PREACHING LADIES
prominent in the Revolutionary War. Some are among town-and-country
leaderstoday. I carousedearly, at academythen Harvard. I met a sweetgirl
and before the year of courtship was over, my parentsdied of smallpox and
she of galloping consumption.I never forgavethem or God for cheating
me. And I never forgave myself for not forgiving." Softly he began to
cry-not with tension, not with bitterness-just slow relieving drops of
heartbreak being wiped away at last.
Annie producedher lace-edgedlinen Sabbathpocket handkerchief.Eliza
toucheda kiss on his forehead.Amos lightly pattedhis shoulder.The board
meeting was then conducted, with Reddy's former mates given priority
over needed repairs on the Factory. On Monday night it was again
overcrowded.
"I am moved, dear friends," Eliza told her ogling audience, "to reveal
to you the Army's purpose and plan. We have but one purpose-to relate
mankind to God. And the only way we know this can be done is to unite
them with Jesus. When He abides-no matter what has troubled them:
forsaken,brokenhearted,bereft, overcomeby evil, despondentin drink,
cantankerous, unforgiving will, hard of heart-all can be washed away.
And that means, for you who do not know religious talk, that God can
make us wholel Isn't that wonderful?Happy and peacefuland filled with
His joy!"
There was a chorus of hallelujahs and amens.
"The SalvationArmy has been raisedup to seekthe lost, those who have
sunk to the depths, for whom no one else cares-the churchless, the
cheerless.Jesuscan make us soldiersof His Kingdom, and help us to go
forth to captureothers."
The audience was stunned by this diminutive girl soldier, this tiny
preachinglady. Her pronouncementswere sure, her faith precise,her joy
"And when the battle's
infectious.Someonein the audiencebeganto sing,
over we shall wear a crown...in the new Jerusalem!"Fqr more than an
hour therewas singing, clappingand praying, Scriptureand sharing.Then
Eliza outlined the part she expectedthe Army's soldiers and friends to play
in its American adventure.
"We're an army," she said, "marching forward-picking up the fallen,
helping them to stand, to walk and then to march. We must seethat they lay
asideevery weight that so easilydoesbesetthem and leap into the fountain
of God's love. That is what Jesusis all about. But thesedear folk must be
told. How will they be told if the trumpetgive an uncertainsound?If there
are too few trumpeters?"
She pausedto survey her audienceat length, as she marched back and
forth acrossthe platform, considering.
Victory | 125
"'What
can we do to help?' you ask. There are three things: one, you
can join us; two, you can help us with your muscles and your prayer and
thoughts; three, you can give us coppers and folding money. We need to
patch up our roof and put in a floor. We need collections to pay expenses.
Right now, Mr. Shirley pays for everything. We need you to stand with us
in the open-air meetings. Most of all, we needyour prayers.The battle will
be fierce and long. Yes, Jesusmakes the vilest sinner whole, but some of
the details are left to His helpers. Man is body, mind and spirit, and this
means the fallen must have whatever is needed during recovery-food,
housing, clothes. Often we must teach them to be clean, to work, to laugh,
to sing, to pray and preach. If this means waiting for their releaseat the
jailhouse door, escorting them to and from the Factory, there must be no
hesitation. The battle is the Lord's, the battering is the Devil's, and the
blessedwork is ours. Will you help us, dear friends?"
They would. The clapping that followed, the foot stomping, the cheers,
and the standingovation made a single battering ram, Eliza told them, ..on
the monster doors of hell."
Very soon the Salvation Factory was made comfortable and secure,and
the chief difficulty in Philadelphia was not to secure a crowd but to
accommodate it. Souls were saved at almost every meeting, and the
platform was filled with joyful converts. Remarkableconversionsbecame
customary, many of them Reddy's old mates. Newsmen camped nearby to
be certain of spectacular copy. Reports such as the following from fte
Philadelphia News were common:
I foundan old chairfactoryat the cornerof Sixth andOxfordstreets,
whichhadbeenrenamedtheSalvationFactoryor meetinghouse
of the
society,consistingof a room 40x80, whose rough boardsand
whitewashedbeamsand raftersthat ran along the ceiling overhead
would suggesta stableratherthana placeof worship.
The leader,a young woman, looked 20 or 22. At their outdoor
speakingstandat the closeshe said to her marchers:,Breakranks,
friends.Fall in, and forwardmarch-to the Factory.'Thereuponthe
two hallelujahfemalesheadingthe line with theirfacestowardit and
walking backwardled the processiondown GermantownRoad,
singinga rousinghymn andkeepingstepto the air, while the leaders
beattime with their hands.
The stationwas literally packedwhen the love feastwas opened.
Biscuitwaspassedaround,andthe congregation
wasremindednot to
crowdthe room, but to breakthe breadquietlywith thosewho stood
or satnearestto them.Thescenethatensuedbeggarsdescription.The
reportersharedhis biscuitwith eightdifferentpersons,while theyin
turn divided theirs with him, and the profuseapologiesthat were
offeredwhenthesharerbrokeoff a largerpiecethanheintended,were
126/ PREACHINGLADIES
thespiritof unselfishness
andbrotherly
to demonstrate
well calculated
on thisoccasion...'
supreme
lovewhichreigned
"suddenly a tall and aged
This reporter was impressedbut shockedwhen
'Hallelujah!'
woman with spectaclesrose up in her seat shrieking,
accompaniedwith a manner that made one's hair stand on endl" Many
"with a voice like a calliope arose
others rose to exult and exalt. A man
whose impassionedand excited exhortation opened the floodgates of
eloquencein every part of the room. Most of the spectatorswere men, of
whom nearly all claimed to have led a life steepedhead and ears in crime
and debauchery,but who had been rescuedby the Army."
During the next two months other reportersnoted that the Army was
doing an invaluablework, and that the Shirleyswere earnest,industrious
Christians who used every trick to their advantage.One, interviewing
Annie, wrote:
Mrs. Shirley said they were enduringthe samepersecutionas in
assailedthem. She mentionedsomeboys
England.Saloonkeepers
inscribed:"THE
who had joined their marchwith a transparency
TONIGHT,"and
PERFORMANCE
FEMALE MINSTRELSHOW.
"We usethe Devil's
hadhim put at the front of the march,stating,
to destroyhim."
weapons
Another reported:
. . . when the leader(Eliza) took the floor, in an impassionedadwhichis rarely
dress.. . shespokefor 20 minuteswith an eloquence
oratory.Shewas listenedto with
heardin thesedaysof degenerate
rapt attention,and the ratherrough audiencemaintainedcomplete
silencewhen she spoke.. . Englandhas twice tried to conquer
Americaand failed.. .lt is just possiblethe third attemptmadeby
thesetwo hallelujahlassies,Annieand Eliza Shirley,will be more
successful.'
The battle was on. From the Saturday of Reddy's conversion the lines
were drawn. Amos securedhim a job at the Adams Silk Mill, and every
day after work until supper, the two headed for five-saloon corner to
persuademen from the bar. They'd made a map, marking every saloonin
town with a red dot. and intendedto coverthe lot. Within a month 70 of the
most notoriousdrunks in Philadelphiahad been converted.The platform
was iilled with red-jerseyedrecruits, the singing was lusty and powerful;
often now, Salvationistsadaptedsacredreligious words to the jig tunes of
the saloon and dancehall. Open-airprocessionswere orderly, drilled and
2lnformation paraphrasedfrom St. John Ervine, God's Soldier, Vol. 1, pp. 482-484.
3St.John Ervine, God's Soklier, Yol. I, pp. 491, 492.
Victory I 127
trim, and the entire town talked about this foreigner, The Salvation Army.
Such successhad not won appreciationnor acceptancefrom most respectable churchgoers and often the religious press reflected their attitude in
essayssuch as this:
The adventof The SalvationArmy in this countrymay perhapsbe
considered
a retaliationfor our havingsentMoody and Sankeyto
Englanda few yearsago. The Army is underthe generalcontrolof
one William Booth,and the branchin Americais not a very large
invadingforce. Franklyspeakingwe are not in sympathywith this
bandof revivalistsanddo not esteemthemworthyof the confidence
people.. .
of Christian
We stronglyreprobatethe fashionsof this bandand assertthat their
soldiersthough doubtlesssincereenough are making religion
ridiculous.. . We havealreadyseenmany instances
of sneeringat
religion and religiousthingsprovokedby this Army.
Wehopethatwe will not be misunderstood
in this matter.Webelieve
in puttingfortheverypossible
effortfor theconversion
of thewicked;
but we alsobelievethatthoseeffortsshouldbe put forth with good
judgmentandcommonsense.
Theselatterqualitiesarelackingin the
membersof The SalvationArmy. Enthusiasm,
self-denialand the
capacityfor workareundoubtedly
theirs;butwe believetheirmission
in this country will be a failure becausethey lack that quality so
absolutelynecessary
to success
and which St. Paulhad in sucha
maiked degree-adaptability.In fact, The SalvationArmy is
impracticable,
and the crusadeon which it hasenteredwill be an
impotentone.'
Gentility, religious or otherwise, treated the Army with disregard,
disdain or open defiance,and the authoritiesgrew increasinglyresistant,
often attemptingto prohibit free speech;nonetheless,saloonkeepers
were
the most seriousobstaclein the onwardmarch, occasioningpainful distress
to Eliza and her corps.
During December, meetings were spectacular.More than a thousand
regularly attendedservices.The Shirleysgrew to know many newspaper
reporters,most of whom were friendly. One young man was on hand not
only during working hours but also during much of his free time. Before
long, Hal Stevensonwas acceptedat the Salvation Factory and in the
Shirley home as Brother Hal. They agreedthey had nothing to hide and
who knows, maybe he'd be won to Jesus.His first report read something
like this:
CaptainShirleyand his army live in the three-storybrick houseat
runningfrom Norris to
#2046 KreslerStreet,a smallthoroughfare,
DiamondbetweenFifth andSixthStreets.
A knockon the doorwas
"TheWar Cry, EasternTerritory,September
12, 1925.
I28 / PREACHINGLADIES
man with a brow incliningto
by a small,pleasanrfaced
answered
baldness.
The Shirleyladiesweredressedmuch alike-in black with small
whitecollarsabouttheirthroats.Theirhairwascombeddownsmooth
of
They all had an appearance
on the foreheadand no ornaments.
and which is neverseen
which cannotbe counterfeited
goodness
excepton the facesof modestwomen.
and
their story,mentioningboth persecution
Mr. Shirleydescribed
policeprotection.He saidit wastheir intentionto extendto thewhole
of theUnitedStates.
"Now, my brothet how is it with
As Hal reachedfor his hat, Annie said,
you? Have you given your heart to God?"
"I
Hal answered, came here to interview you, not to be interviewed."
"But we must have a word of prayer," said Annie. "Who knows what
God is planning for your soul?"
Hal made a feebleeffort to escapebut Annie went on.
"I'm afraid it won't do any good," he said.
"But it certainlywon't do any harm."
Annie got him on his knees,askedEliza to get the songbooksand Eliza
sang a Moody-Sankeysong:
Hallelujah!'tis done!I believeon the Son;
I'm savedandI'm keptby thecrucifiedOne!
Then Amos prayedfor the conversionof their visitor.
"Amen," said Amos and added that the devil had overshothimself
again. There was another hymn, Eliza prayed and Annie prayed. Then
afraid of what they might do to him next, Hal escaped,to report in his news
"in a heatedand flushed condition." However,his grueling experistory,
ence did not dissuadehim from further visits to the SalvationFactoryand
the Shirley home.
All went well, and Eliza was busy at Christmastimebaking and begging
fruitcakes, turkey, hams, and white cotton men's socks (for homemade
dolls) so a few poor souls might have a little cheer. Even though the
Salvation Factory was heated with only one large potbellied stove, the
crowds did not diminish, nor the number of converts, and it seemedin
"all
died and gone to Heaven." Then the storm
Eliza's words that they'd
broke.
"The air is staleand still.
Reddy had said intuitively a week previously,
That's the way it is just before a hurricane."
"Sergeant," said Eliza, "that's becausethe victoriesare so many.We're
past the worst."
But she collared him when alone.
Victory I 129
it.
"Reddy, you
think we're in for it?"
"I
think there'll soon be such a tussleas you'd never guess."
"What
can we do?"
He gaveher a stronglook, as if he knew the answerbur couldn't speak
"Pray."
Eliza ponderedand prayed. No use turning to the authoritiesnor the
churches.No possibleway to halt. Must march on, must march faithfully
on, no matter what.
On the following Saturday,saloon visits were much rewardedand Amos
and Reddy were delightedthey'd been permittedto pray with seekerson
saloonsawdust.The eveningopen-airmeetingwas one of the best they'd
everhad: peopleat the drumhead,rousingsongsand powerfulprayer;then,
as the benedictionwas being pronounced,Iike a tomado, not a hurricane,
the battle was on.
"Fall
in!" orderedEliza. "Do not defendyourselves.Mark time, quick
step to the Factory!"
The order went unheededas the enemyattacked.More than one hundred
roughs and murderousdrunks beganan onslaughtwhich to the Shirley's
knowledge had never been equalled in the old country. Pails of boiling
water were splashedover them; sacksof flour, pepper-coloredochre and
dung were flung at them; there was even a makeshiftcannonfrom which
small missiles were shot. At close quarters, fists were employed, with
brute beastssnarling and snapping;every device of torture that could be
conjured was used. The soldiersbegan to run in the dark, trying not to
scream, attempting to sing. Some fell and were trampled, some were
bruisedand torn with flying missiles.As Eliza and Annie stoopedto raise
converts and speedthem away, Amos, Reddy and other converts linked
hands, forming a chain which roughs now attemptedto break.
A howling vagrant lighted a firecracker and tossed it under Eliza's
voluminous frock and cape. It explodedand she fell to the ground.
By the time the police arived and shovedas many combatantsinto the
paddy wagon as possible, Eliza was carried to the Factory where,
recoveringher senses,she insistedon leadingthe meeting. Reddy had not
reported, word being that he'd been taken to the station. Upon checking
after the service,the Shirleysand Hal discoveredthat he'd not beentaken.
They retracedtheir steps, since Eliza could not be dissuadedfrom the
search.They ended at the open-air lot, where the moon shone cold and
condemningon the torn Novemberearth crust. No fallen soldier there.
Then Eliza caught sight of a skeletonoak some yards from the corner.
"Papa!"
she screamed."Papal"
There, hanging from a large branch, his wrists tied with ropes, was
I3O / PREACHING LADIES
Reddy, his face swollen beyond recognition, his great scarlet-sweatered
body still.
"Fiends!" Hal ran
for a barrel.
"Jesus," Amos' voice was low. "Oh, Jesus!"
Again a crowd gathered,mute this time. Reddy was cut down. He was
too heavy to carry so Hal sped for a rig and deliveredthe Shirleys and
Reddy to Kresler Street. Reddy was unconsciousfor three hours. The
doctor, summoned to treat him and Eliza, was amazedat their fortitude,
their eagernessto again be in the battle.
"I've heard
it said that God takes care of drunks and children," he
grinned. "I'm sure He'd permit me to add-and Salvationists.Everyone
concernedwill be all right."
The next morning the papers were full of the story, though Hal had the
scoop.At the conclusionof his featurehe noted:
ilow long will the city of brotherly love toleratesuch criminal
of ourcity havebeenpaidwithdrink
behavior?
Theworstblackguards
andsilverby saloonownersandotherpersonswith vestedintereststo
it is emptyingtheir halls of
tormentThe SalvationArmy because
This time
andmakingdecentmenout of formerhabitues.
commerce
murderousintentionhas been carried too far. With the attempted
hangingof the Army'sfirst converton the Americancontinent,the
time hascometo speakout. Landof the free andhomeof the brave'l
Let The SalvationArmy march!
Odiouslie! Riseup, Philadelphia!
Next morning, Eliza begansendingclippings from Philadelphiapapers
to General Booth, begging him to send reinforcements.Hardly a day went
b y w i t h o u ts o m e t h i n gi n p r i n t .
"But Lizzie, darlin' " Annie said, "our corps has only beenopen three
'
months.How can you expecthim to agree?"
"because
"Just
God tells him to."
as he did before." said Eliza.
Before a reply could come from the General, as Eliza and Annie
they found Amos at
returned home from visitation for lunch one Ti-resday,
the kitchen table, head in hands.
"Papa! What's wrong?"
"Amos, what is it?"
Amos looked up with the first expressionof despair Eliza had ever seen
on his face.
"My boss summonedme his private office
"l'm
to
through," he said.
position
my
make
choice
between
and that ridiculous
said
I
must
and
Salvation Army. He told me they were well pleased with my work and
would like to keep me but could not tolerateany man who was in any way
identifiedwith that nonsense.He had seenthe papers,and he had evidently
Victory ll3l
been in conversationwith the mayor. I supposemy participation makesthe
company seem undignified, but I made my choice without hesitation,
received a month's salary in advance,and here I am without a position!"
"ls
that all that's the matter?" said Annie. "Can't you see, Love, it's the
Lord pushing us on? As you say, Amos, the devil has tuly overshot his
mark again. Darlin', we disobeyed the Lord twice. Now, He's giving us
anotherchance.Let's go out and look for a hall and open a #2 corps. What
do you think, Lizzie?"
"I
think we'd better pray," said Eliza. "Down on your knees, Papa.
Whatever will Jesusthink of you now?"
After prayer they took a horsecarto West Philadelphiaand found at 42nd
and Market Street a comfortable roomy hall, seatedand heated, ready for
possession.They rented it very reasonablywith no advancepayment, got
out scarlet bills and the second week in Janrrary, 1880, Eliza left
Philadelphia #l corps to the command of Amos and Annie, and, with a
girl convert to assist her, opened the Philadelphia #2 corps.
There had been no reply from the General, but Eliza conducted her
open-fire campaign with vigor. From the first, there were crowds and
souls, and they soon built up a flourishing corps oftrlood-and-fire soldiers.
Reporters continued to find Eliza and her exploits good copy, especially
brother Hal. One night he approachedher after evening service.
"Lieutenant
Lizzie, you're a corker. Would it be convenientto interview
you privately?"
Eliza said, "Of course," and indicated what times she'd be home during
the next few days.
"l mean
alone."
"Alone?
Jsu rngnn-alone, alone?"
He nodded.
"Would
the hotel lobby be a suitable place? Enroute with my papers I
can stop in."
They met, to sit conspicuouslyin the lobby, Hal with notebook in hand.
As Eliza greeted him she was not unconscious of his handsome blond
patrician features, his earnestness,his interest. Oh, dear Jesus, make
everything.. .make everything.. .appropriate.
"Lizzre,"
Hal flushed, lacking his usualcompcsure."I'll come right to
the point-this is not an interview for the paper. In fact, it's not an
interview at all. I'm quite struck with you. No infatuation. I want to marry
you."
"Marry
me?" Eliza jumped up. "Marry me? Hal, do you know what
you're saying?"
"I
think I do." He put the pad in his vestpocket,followedit with his lead
I32 / PREACHING LADIES
pencil. "Lizzie, I'm a writer with bright prospects,good health, sound
mind, Christian. And I'm asking the loveliest,smartest,finest girl in the
world to be my bride."
Oh, dearGod! Oh, oh. She satdown.
"I'm honored,dearHal. All I know ofyou is good. You've beena noble
friend to the Army and to my parents and to me. You've defended us in
print and with muscle. You're seriousabout our great commission.Dodo you know how old I am?"
"About 201"
"Seventeenon the ninth October."
"Many girls marry at that age."
"Do you know I'm committed to officerstrip for my whole life?"
"That's all right with me."
"You wouldn't ever mind my being a woman preacher?"
"No."
"That I might have little enoughtime for you-for our children?"
"I quite understandyour calling, Eliza."
"Are you willing to become an officer in the ranks of The Salvation
Army?"
"Not at present,but that shouldn't-"
"lt does, Hal. Marriage in the Army demandsthat both personsbe
commissionedofficers."
"Oh." He blinked back tears. "I didn't know." And looking away,said,
"I'm sorry, Lizzie.. . solry to have troubled and embarrassedyou."
Eliza rose on tiptoe and kissedhim on the foreheadas he bent over her.
Then she scurriedaway.Hal didn't ceaseto attendservices,nor to turn out
spectacular features regarding the Army, and many's the time Eliza met
that inquiring look as she preachedor sang-always answeringit with a
nay.
Onc night he came to her worriedly.
"Lizzie, how would you like to be arrested? The word is out that
publicanshave had enoughof you and friend Reddy on his side of town."
"Well, hallelujahl" saidEliza. "I'm not at all particular.Justas the Lord
wills."
That night the hall was filled for sometime with eagerworshipers. There
had beenthe usual march, accompaniedby concertinas,a few brasshorns,
guitars, timbrels, and a drum. It was very cold; thus a larger catch than
usual of toughs and other ribald young men were attracted.Though the
meeting was continually intemrptedwith catcallsand loud speech,it was
"jumped into the fountain," as Eliza put it, and half a
successful.Ten
"We're marching to
dozen raised hands to be rememberedin prayer. As
Victory tt33
Zion, beautiful, beautiful Zion," rang out before the final amen, the
benchesat the rear of the barracks were vacatedand roughs then arranged
themselvesin solid phalanx in the aisles and outer alleyway.
A most respectablelady forced her way to them a.ndremonstratedwhen
they commencedcalling her names "too vile for repetition." A gentleman
standing near attempted to defend the lady and was hustled unceremoniously over the chairs by the disorderly element, who boldly
announcedtheir intention to clean the Army out.
"Out? Out indeed!" ordered
Eliza. "All of you-out! This is God's
house and it is to be honored!Out!"
Armed with lanterns, pokers, and clubs, the renegadescommenced
striking and kicking Salvationistswithout regard to.age or sex, so that it
was with great difficulty that some of the. women soldiers and children
escaped through the windows. On arrival, the chief of police routinely
scatteredthe disorderly element, asking for Lieutenant Eliza Shirley and
helpers. Amos and Annie, who'd arrived to convey Eliza home, stood forth
with her and Reddy. The chief of police handed each a summons.
"You will be locked up to
be arraigned before Justice Sullivan in the
mornin'."
A lurching, bantering, buffeting mob marchedbehind the wagon all the
way to jail. There, the marshalwas reluctant to arrestthe women, but Eliza
insisted and Annie wouldn't let the othersgo without her. There was quite a
racket outside, so they sangthrough the single window in their cell to keep
the brave cheerful and the guilty on guard.
As to furnishings, there was one box for Annie, and an upturned coal
bucket for Eliza. Amos had managedto conceal his concertina under his
overcoat so the four had harmonies most of the night.
The immediate future was considered.
"What may be the worst
they could give us?" Eliza asked Amos.
"Several months in
the workhouse, I suppose."
"All of us?"
"lf they want."
"But
how could the work go forward? Especially if this menace
continues?What shall we do?"
Annie patted Eliza.
"Lizzie, God
knows every turn in the road. We've trusted Him before
and we'll go on trusting."
"But
they're so many and so strong. And the General hasn't even
answered. If all this wonderful work should be lost-"
'"What is that verse again? About answering?Let's
tell the Master. It's
the telling and the trusting that call forth truth."
I34 / PREACHING LADIES
They all knelt to recite the words and thank God for how He would work
everythingout satisfactorily:
Bejbrethel-call, I will answer:
And while theyare yet speaking,I will hear.
At 10:30the next morning they appearedbefore the judge, the charges
being disorderly conduct. inciting to riot. and disturbing the peace.
Witnessestestified, but only one appearedagainstthem-a saloonowner.
He claimed they hurt his business.He said they were scoundrelsand
tramps, and that they'd come to town with unworthy motives. After the
witnesses,Amos put the factscalmly and Annie with force. Then came
Eliza.
"Your Honoq" she began, "Philadelphiais one of the oldestcities, and
certainly the finest in this country,yet today it is rolling like a filthy pig in
the sloughof sin and deviltry. Its questionableprosperityis likely to be its
ruin. This city of brotherly love must be saved!It's the proper bastion in
which to defendand extendthe Kingdom of God. He has led us here. We
mu$ marchon!" Then she stunnedher hearersby reciting the final stanza
"Battle Hymn of the Republic":
of their beloved
In the beautyoJ'thelilies Christ wasborn acrossthe sea,
you and me;
Witha glor,'-in His bosomthat trunsJigures
As He died to makemenholy, let us LIVE (die) to makemenfree,
WhileGod is marchingon.
"Well,
The judge and crowdedcourtroomstared.Finally the judge said,
I can't let you go scot free. Five dollars or an indefinite stay in the
workhouse."
The Shirleys would not pay.
"Our God marchesbefore us," said Eliza. "We shall go to-"
"Wait."
Hal steppedforward, paid the fine, and home they all went rejoicing.
"Praisethe Lord! Praisethe Lord! Praisethe Lord!" sangEliza,takinga
"The General'sanswered."She openedthe thin
letter fiom the mailbox.
envelopecarefully:
My dearLieutenant:
to promoteyou to the rankof Captain.
It givesme greatpleasure
for all thathasbeenaccomplished
for
Wegivepraiseandthanksgiving
in Londonwill takeholdof theworkandafter
God.Yes,headquarters
it hasbeendecidedto setapartGeorge
muchprayerandconsideration
Army in
of The Salvation
ScottRailtonto be the first Commissioner
accompanied
by
the UnitedStates.He will be sailingmid-February,
lassres.
sevenHallelujah
William Booth
CENERAL
Victory ll35
A secondletter, from Beck, read in part:
DarlingLizzie
Will God'swondersnevercease?
I'm sureyou'veheardthat the
Generalis sendingreinforcements
to America, sailing early in
Februrary.
Lizzie,readthelist carefully.
I'll try to getanother
noteoff
as we farewell,so you'll know more.
CaptainEmmaWesrbrook,
NorrhShields
RachelEvans,Spennymoor
ClaraPrice,Hammersmith
Mary Ann Colenran,
Salisbury
ElizabethPearson,
Nottingham
AnnieShaw,Nottingham
EmmaMorris,StokeNewinston
UnderHis bannerof love,
Beck
That day Eliza was a child again, dancing around the kitchen table,
clapping and singing. She conducteda thanksgivingboard meetingbefore
open-air meeting.
"Communiqud
from CaptainEliza Shirley to PrivatesAmos and Annie
Shirley-" They began to laugh. "Oh, Papaand Mama, imaginel I just
can't believeit. What childrenwe were, darlingBeck and I. Meetingthe
Hallelujahs, Sisters Reynolds and Burrell. . . Jimmie and Katie
Docker. . . Mr. Bramwell Booth. . . CaptainCadman,the Generaland Mrs.
Booth. Then soldiership,the call . . . General Booth. . . Bishop Auckland
and Little #l . . . pastiesand prayerand Tirnible Tirrnip. . . Roosterand peg
P o l l . . . P a p a ' sl e t t e r . . . G e n e r aBl o o t h a g a i n . . . t h e S c r i p t u r e s . . .
P h i l a d e l p h i aR, e d d y . . . a n d y o u l Y o u d a r l i n ' y o u s l W i l l t h i s l a n d e v e r
know what you've done for it? No matter,God does-and I do. Now we're
one battalionof God's soldiersof love marchingstraightround the world!
Mr. Railton's coming means the General considers our work begun!
Substantial.God has set His sealon it. Let's pray."
They knelt.
Eliza's first letterto GeneralBooth had appearedin the January31, 1880,
issueof The War Cr-r',with this notice appended:
W E M U S T G O !
This newshascomeuponus like a voicefrom Heavenandleavesus
no choice.Mr. Railtonmust for a time postponehis North Wales
expedition
in orderto takecommand
of a forcewith whichhehopesto
sail aboutl3th Februaryfor New York,andthe UnitedStatesmust,
throughouttheir lengthand breadth,be overrunby Salvation
desperadoes.
136/ PREACHING LADIES
The following week the Generalissueda further statement:
spreadof the work in Englandis
On the one hand,the phenomenal
andon theother,thereis
all theforcethatcanbe mustered,
absorbing
startedin
the convictionthatthe grandrevolutionnow so blessedly
speedthrough
mustandshouldspreadwith incalcuable
Philadelphia
the States.
Six very young women soldierswererecruitedfor the invasion,only one
of them an officer, CaptainEmma Westbrook,who had one time worked in
the Booth home. Whatevertraining they receivedwas given to them by
Railton on boardship, as therewas no trainingprogramfor somemonthsto
come.
"apparently of maid-servantorder
A reporter describedthe girls as
uniformly and neatlydressedin long black tunics. Eachwore a black straw
"THE SALVATION ARMY."
hat with a red ribbon which bore the imprint
The hat bandswere two and a half inchesbroad and very crimson."'
At a very large srennnrloN MEETINGon February 12, 1880, the
detachmentfarewelled at Whitechapel Hall, London. Many prominent
SalvationArmy friends were presentand when General Booth presented
Railton with 200 pounds to help with expensesof starting the work' a
.,huge coloured man stood up and gave an addedcontribution." Railton
and the lassiestestified precedingthe messageand flag presentationby
CatherineBooth, who took a deep interestin the American expedition.
"You look young," she said, turning to the girls who comprisedthe
party. "To some people you may appearinsignificant-but so do we all'
So did those women who stood groupedround the cross of christ to the
proud Phariseeswho walked, mocking, past. But their nameshave been
handeddown to us, while thoseof the Phariseeshave been forgotten'
"l presentyou with these flags in the name of our great King, who
bought all sinnerswith His blood, and who bids us go forth and sprinkle
them with it, first in His name, and then in that of the General of The
SalvationArmy. I handthem to you, prayingthat God may give you' young
as you are, strengthto fight heroicallyunderHis banner,and to lead tensof
thousandsto the cross."
Elijah Cadman had the great joy of praying for the contingent' in
"Lord, theselassiesaregoing to
uniquestyleimploring,
characteristically
America to preachthe Gospel. If they are fully given up to Thee, be with
'em and bless 'em and grant 'em success'But if they are not as good as
'em! Drown 'em! Drown 'em!"
they ought to be, O Lord, drown
On February 14, the American Expedition set sail on the steamerS'S'
Australia, after processioningto the ship with hundredsof comrades.The
sRobertSandall, The History ofThe SalvationArmy' Yol. ll, p.232
Victory /137
singing soldierswere observedwith great interestalong FenchurchStreet.
Crowds of peoplein omnibuses,wagonsand vehiclesof all kinds stopped
to watch. CatherineBooth wrote to a friend about the experience:
It wasa grandsight,Thewomen'shatslookedcapital. . . threeof our
ofthe peopleseemed
flagswereflying on board,andtheenthusiasm
to strikewith aweeventhe men who werehaulingin the bales.I
believeGodwill givethemmanya sealto theirministrybeforethey
get there.Dear,devotedRailtonlookedwell in his uniformand
happyas an angel.Blesshim! I lovehim as a son.
appeared
It was, howevet a stormy passage.Off Land's End one of the ship's
cylindersbroke down, the vessel'sspeedwas reduced,provisionshad to be
were transferredto
beggedfrom other ships, and some of the passengers
other ships. Railton, hale and expectant,refused to budge, though his
playedcards,drank, sang
lassieswere all seasick.While otherpassengers
and whooped it up, the Railton party held an open-airmeetingevery
"never had weather
fit for deck standing."
eveningin the landing for they
patiently endured,and they got one "fish."
Fellow passengers
The Australia berthedat Battery Point Pier, New York City, on March
10, 1880, and Railton declaredtheir mission to the customsofflcials
immediately. They demandeda sample of their preaching, either not
knowing or not caring that New York's city fathers had prepared a
prohibitory ordinance against The Salvation Army, having heard that
rioting had accompaniedthe English invasion. The ordinancewas to be
enforcedshould there be any attemptto hold streetmeetings.
The presswas on hand in bustlingcuriosity as Railtonbeganhis opening
"shots,"
basedon the Scripture,John3:16:
For God so lovedthe world, that He gave
His only begotten Son, that whosoever
believeth in Him "^hould not perish, but have
everlasting Iife.
Lead pencilsscribbledhastilyas reporterspreparedtheir first sensational
accounts of General Booth's commissionerto "the various states and
countriesof North and South America and the Islands adjacentthereto."
Hereafter,they trailed him like pet pigeonsas he unsuccessfullyattempted
to gain permissionfor streetmeetingsand in final desperatefaith agreedto
be a feature at the infamous Harry Hill's Theater in the Bowery.
Six daysafter landing, Railton addressedan ultimatumto the mayor and
corporationof the City of New York, statingthat unlesshe and his aides
were given permissionto hold streetmeetingsby the following Thursday,
he would rgmove his headquarterselsewhere.On Saturday,March 18,
1880,GeorgeScottRailton arrivedin Philadelphiawith four of his lassies,
I38 / PREACHING LADIES
leaving Captain Westbrook and Lieutenant Coleman in New York to
continuebeachheadbattling.
"monThe Railton brigadewas welcomedin Philadelphia'sprestigious
ster" Athletic Hall by the Shirleys and several thousand other eager
celebrantsin what Railton latersaid was the bestmeetinghe ever attended'
Entrancinghis listenerswith his energeticstyle, and nobility of features,
Railton, in a grand hallelujah broadside,called the Shirleys to platform
center.There, holding out two large flags, he stated:
In the nameof William Booth, Generalof The SalvationArmy, I
you Captains,
andpresentto you,CaptainElizaShirley'
commission
No. I andNo. 2, thefirst corps
flagsfor Philadelphia
blood-and-fire
of America,NorthandSouthAmericaandIslands
in theUnitedStates
adjacent!
"Hallelujah!" roared the clapping, whistling, stamping,shoutingcongregation,standingin an ovationwhich seemedwould neverbe concluded.
"Glory," said Amos softly.
"Amen!" said Annie stoutlY.
"Thank You, Jesus," whisperedEliza. "We'll march straightforward."
A n d t h e yd i d . 6
6RedPenny Songbook, 1880, U.S.A. Twelve months after the first service of the Shirleys'
the Army had 12 corps holding 172 servicesper week;1,500 personsprofessedconversion;
265 spoke publicly for Christ on First Anniversary Sunday.
:
Appendix A
Histoiette
ELIZA SHIRLEY
Commissioner George Scott Railton found the Shirleys to be quite
"From
remarkablepeople.
the moment of our arrival," he wrote later, "the
Shirley family showed the most simple and loyal willingness to take their
place under the flag and fight whereverthey could servebest. I found them
living, not like many officers in England even then could live, but like
factory people, and they showedthe simplest desire to spendtheir lives 'as
poor, yet making many rich."'
Very soon, the three were separatedas Railton commissioned them to
open other corps. They had immediate rapport with him. Eliza recalled,
"Commissioner Railton was a real pioneer. Poverty, privation,
hardship,
misrepresentation,persecution-why thesewere a tonic to him. They were
the elixir of life to his brave, elevatedspirit. He was a pattern of godliness,
and truly gave us an example."
Eliza was sent to open fire in Germantown, Pennsylvania,appointedfor
a short term to Atlantic City, New Jersey, and a second command of
Philadelphia#2.'
In the autumn of 1880 she succumbedto a severephysical breakdown,
and physicianssuggestedcompleterest and change.The heatpossiblyhad
intensified the condition, for it was one of the hottest summers the east
coast of the United Stateshad ever known. Railton wrote to Booth, "Even
Eliza Shirley,whoseillnessa few weeksago I think I mentioned,hashad a
return of the worst symptoms during the last few days. Others, though not
yet laid aside, are I know dragging themselvesup to the fight night after
night. We raise our cry to God for reinforcementsfrom among the healthy
daughtersof the land, who can better endure its climate, and should surely
be able better to subdueits peoples."
One of the finest tributes to Eliza's lifelong career of love and industry
was expressedby an aged minister who had met her within weeks of the
opening of Philadelphia. The following is a condensedversion of a letter
written August 8, l9l7 , but undiscovereduntil recently.
Dr. JosephR. Hood, a Methodist minister, visited Philadelphia during
the autumn of 1879, and while in the city attendedprayer meetings in the
chapel of a popular minister, a Dr. Wood. There he was introduced to a
Miss Shirley, who, his host said, "was a missionary from London,
'Terms were very short in pioneer days, as William
Booth believed it was good for a
"chicken
"
to have to scratchfor his com, and if moved often an officer would be compelled to
be industrious.
139
I4O / PREACHING LADIES
England." He observeda very small, neatly dressedwoman. In con"Does
that mean London is sending
versation with Wood later, he asked,
Philadelphiaa missionary?"
"Yes."
"Philadelphiais known the world over as the city of churches.It appears
strangethat a missionary should be found in the person of so small a
woman."
"I supposeit appearsas strangeto me as it does to you,
Wood replied,
but she is certainly a woman of character.' She has exhibited her
recommendationsto me, and they cannot be questioned.General Booth
has commissionedher to introducemissionarywork under the auspicesof
The SalvationArmy."
Dr. Hood was stopping at the Haymarket Hotel on the northeastcorner of
7th and Oxford Streets,not far from the Shirley's SalvationFactory and
"that had a
their open-airstand.On the following Sunday,he heardsinging
devotional ring and placing my window blinds ajar saw a few personswith
hymn books in their hands." The sidewalkswere throngedwith people,
"By
the time I was ready to go out, quite a
most of them halting to watch.
the singers as they marched east on
people
were
following
number of
factory."
chair
the
vacated
Oxford Street, toward
caused
him to follow the marchers,
said
that
curiosity
The minister
until they reachedthe
followers
increased,
number
of
whom
the
behind
factory door. There he stopped, but on observing that the dirt floor had
been coveredwith sawdust,the room filled with seatsand suppliedwith a
rostrum and chancel. he entered. He then observedon the rostrum a
gentlemanand two ladies.As the smallestlady arose,he recognizedEliza.
"She at once surveyedher audience,which represented
quite a varietyof
classes.Some well dressedand well behaved,showing evident signs of
culture and good breeding, some showing Christian devotion; some
youthful, others mature; some elderly; a number were evidently from the
slums and alleys; others, having just run from whiskey saloons, were
intoxicated.It was a mottledconglomeratemassof humanity,attractedand
held by curiosity."
Eliza recognizedDr. Hood, called his name and invited him to the
platform. There she introduced him to Amos and Annie and added,
"Mother will reada Scripturelesson,Fatherwill offer prayerand following
the singing of a hymn, we wish you to deliver the introductory remarks."
"Give me an outline of my subject."
Rather surprised,he answered,
"Anything that is on your mind for the Master."
She replied,
"Whiter than
When Hood had finished, Eliza announcedher text:
s n o w " ( P s a l m5 l : 7 ) .
Appendix A I l4l
Dr. Hood was totally unpreparedfor this development.
"The
idea of a woman preaching, or conducting preaching serviceswas
quite foreign to my mind. I was thoroughly opposed to such procedure.
However, I was caught in the trap, and waited results. In less than 15
minutes I said to my inner consciousness,
Bless the Lord! If women can
preach that way, let them preach!"
He next observedEliza's care for the people.
"She would
approach the rough, the tough, the whiskey sot, the
debaucheeof the male sex, and, looking him in the face, tell him of God's
love for him, of a better life, the preciousnessof his soul, the cleansing
power of the Saviour's blood, melt him into contrition, accompanyhim to
the altar, and, returning to the audience, approach one of her own sex."
Dr. Hood visited the Salvation Factory often during his prolonged visit.
"I witnessed hundreds of conversions
and reformations in the lives of
many." He noted Eliza's "daily visitationof the alleys, slums, the forlorn
and neglectedplacesand peopleof that greatcity." He concludedhis letter
by stating that he was at the time of writing 85 years old and had been
preaching for 60 years, had traveled extensively, witnessing most of the
religious movementsof the country, and he choseto say that "Miss Shirley
was the most indefatigable and most successfulChristian worker I have
ever known. She reached men of the most abandoned,wretched, forlorn
and (to others) hopelesscasesof fallen and depravedhumanity.
"Not
only that but after having hunted for and made the acquaintanceof
the most miserableoutcast, would lead him to Christ, begging money with
which to buy him clothes,get him a bath, and the servicesofa barber.She
helped him find honorable employment, accompanied him to religious
services, and she and the membersof her organization would care for him
until he was able to help them care for others.
"She
appearedto be masterof every situation in the work she was doing.
I believe she could have commandedan army, administeredgovernmentor
filled any of the high functions of state. Often did I hear people in various
religious assemblies,especially love feasts, credit their reformation to the
work she did in Philadelphia."
In autumn of 1880, General Booth arrangedfor a trip of resuscitationto
England for Eliza, under Annie's care. After a stormy passageof 16 days
they arrived in Liverpool, to find themselves publicly announced to
"special"?
in a weekend of meetings. Then on to London to be welcomed
by Generaland Mrs. Booth.
Eliza and Annie expectedto rest but found a tornadic welcome waiting
-
t'Sp"crut",
Preach in, and sometimes conduct, a series of public services.
I42 / PREACHING LADIES
them. They were askedto speakin many cities and in a Whitechapelriot
"uniforms
torn off our backsand our hatsfrom our heads."There
had their
"precious
"monster"
welcomehome in Coventry,then
weeksat the
was a
Army's Home of Restin Matlock." Not too long after,they wereorderedto
"The
meet the Generaland his party in Manchester,where he told Annie,
lassiewill remain in England.She is so much better.Leaveher in my care.
I will be a fatherto her and will watchover her. It is best." Annie sailedfor
"proceed
to Scarborough
the United Statesand Eliza receivedher orders to
at once to open fire Saturdayand Sunday."
Major Elijah Cadman,her new divisional commander,met her and her
"soon
in the
lieutenant at the station and with a cornetist they were
marketplacegiving out handbills. The city was stirred to rioting," Eliza
"but
the arm of the Lord was madebarethat first weekendin
recalledlater,
the salvationof 20 souls."
In 16 weeks, 1,400 personssought salvation, and when the General
visited soon after, marched400 strong to the station. Eliza was only 18
"The wealthiest
yearsold and the city was hers:
and most influential, with
the poorestand lowliest fishermenand their wives, and I loved them all,
though perhapsI was in danger of getting a little spoiled. At any rate I
attendeda great congressin Hull, with my S's on a velvet collar, velvet
cuffs on my dressand little touchesof lace at my neck. Ridiculous!"
Eliza was calledon to speak.The Generaland Bramwell wereseatedjust
behind her.
"And, oh, what I heardthem saying. I went to seethe Generalnext day
for a personal. How kind he was but how stern. He was so pained, so
disappointed.
"'What would your mother say?' What would dearold Railton say?' He
gingerly touched the velvet and lace. 'What are you anyway but a poor
little insignificantlassie.Why, you should never havebeen known except
by a small group of people if it had not been for God and the Army. And
now, becausethe Lord has lifted you up and given you many soulsand the
love and honor of rich and poor, you allow yourself to be spoiled and get
'I
away from your simplicity.' His voice was full of emotion. love you,
Child, and shall be coming to Scarboroughin a few weeks.Let me seemy
own little lassieagain."'
Eliza was devastated.She had not consciouslylifted herselfbut now she
could see there may well have been temptation to pride. After Scar"O Lord, I
am but a child. Be Thou my
borough, her lifelong prayerwas:
sufficiency." After Scarboroughshe was appointedto Pentri, Leamington,
West Hortlepool and Cardiff #1, Wales,where she met a handsomeyoung
ex-coal miner, Captain Philip Symmonds, fell in love and married him.
Appendix A I 143
After their marriage they were appointed to Coalbridge, Eales, New
Barnett (which they opened),Londonderryand Blackburn #1.
In 1885(therewere now two children)Eliza and Philip were appointedto
Thunton, Massachusetts,under the divisional leadershipof Staff-Captain
Annie Shirley (Amos having beenpromotedto Glory in September,1884).
After Taunton,they were sentto Philadelphia#1, then, as aide-de-camps,
to Des Moines, Iowa, a broadnew pioneerdistrictjust being opened.Next
came staff appointmentsin the Kansas, Colorado, Maine and New
Hampshire, Western Pennsylvaniaand Minnesota Divisions until 1895,
when Philip, whose health had been impaired in the Welsh mines, was
promotedto Glory.
Eliza was left with six children, one (Ruby) a baby born just beforeher
father's death, one (Shirley Philip) having a clubfoot, one (Evangeline)
accidentallyblinded in one eye in early years, and one (Daisy) needing
radicalsurgeryas a teenager.Nevertheless,Eliza neverforfeitedher calling
to preachand gaveinvaluableservicein a varietyof appointmentsuntil her
promotion to Glory in 1932.Theseincluded the following corps appointments, plus specialpublic speakingresponsibilities,her final appointment
being territorialevangelistfor the CentralU.S.A. Territory,with headquarters in Chicago:
.
SaltLakeCity, UT
Chicago#22,lL
Danville.IL
Kenosha,WI
Elgin, IL
ChicagoTemple,IL
DesMoines#1. IA
Calumet,MI
WI
Milwaukee,
Mankato,MN
Minneapolis
#1, MN
ND
Jamestown,
Beloit,WI
Racine.WI
A fine musician, Eliza could as adeptly lead congregationaland group
singing as sing solos. She taught herself and her children to play several
instruments,and often when shetraveledthe childrenaccompaniedher as a
musical brigade, playing guitar, autoharp,concertina and cymbal. Her
childrenwere a delight and credit to her; one, Gertrude,servedas leaderof
"doughnut girl" brigades.
one of the World War I
There are many storiesconcerningEliza'sministry to desperatemen and
women. One concernsJake Bilton, who would get roaring drunk every
Saturday night and plunge through the streets in northern Wisconsin,
"at the top of his lungs." Under Eliza's preachinghe was
singing
Ethel Mae Bilton,
marvelouslyconvertedand yearslaterhis granddaughter,
gave herself for Salvation Army missionary service, until very recently
operatingan institution for mentally retardedchildren in Hong Kong.
One of Eliza's most noteworthyappointmentswas Calumet, Michigan,
I44 / PREACHING LADIES
referredto by local citizens and others as Red Jacket.Becauseso many
"jerseys"
thronged
respectedand influential Salvationistsin their scarlet
this copper-miningtown, they literally renamedit.
When the minesclosed, greatnumbersof thesespiritedfolk becamethe
nucleus for the famed easternMichigan corps in Flint, Detroit and other
nearbycities which today still thrive. Much credit is due not only to Eliza
but also Sergeant-MajorWilliam Beacraft of Flint who with severalothers
founded the Buick Company and found good jobs for musical Salva"Copper
tionists. Organizedby the Gerrins family of Detroit, an annual
Country" reunion was held for many years,featuringthe Cornish pasty,a
"Hallelujah Free-and-Easy"meeting and storiesof Army pioneers.
A convertof Calumetdays, RichardHolman, a former miner from Flint
"never
and 87 years of age when interviewed, rememberedthat Eliza
spoke less than 45 minutes but her audiencewas captivatedby every
utterance. Her meetings were works of art, great majestic tunes leading up
to her message.The Holy Spirit was presentin convicting power and the
altar was lined in every meeting."
One young man influenced by Eliza was Walter Jeffries, popularly
known throughout the midwest as the Blind Evangelist.sAlso, it was in
"the
Calumet that Daisy (now 18) neededsurgery.Holman reports that
entirecopperarearaisedthe moneyneeded,as well as supportingwith love
and prayers."
Eliza's primary interestswere four: Christ Jesus,The SalvationArmy,
her children and the Chicago Cubs baseballteam. She was enthusiastic
about her team, no matter what their standing.At her promotionto Glory
(September30,1932), having suffereda stroke, shewhisperedher love for
"And how are my Cubs doing?" On the
her Lord, then impishly asked,
day of her funeral, the Cubs were contending for the World Series
pennant,aand before the game they stood silently in a moment of
"a great lady"-Eliza Shirley.
remembranceof
Eliza was most remarkable for her loving fortitude and power in prayer,
"Little #I" in Bishop
learned, she never forgot to mention, from
Auckland. The final words in one of her favorite songs are a fitting life
"little Shirley":
testimony for
This is my story,to God be the glorY!
I'm only a sinnersavedby grace.
r "Jeff" had lost his sight in a strangemannerclosely connectedto Red Jacketmining. As
his mother nursedhim she was told of his father'sdeathin a mine accident-"Jeff" was blind
from that moment forward.
oThey won.
Appendix B
Historiette
AMOS SHIRLEY
Amos Shirley had been instructedin Christian lay leadershipwhile in
Derby by William Pearson,'exemplary leader in both The Christian
Mission and The SalvationArmy, first War Cry editor and fine musician.
Colonel Pearsonwrote impressivesongswhich are still in the Army song
"Come, Join
book, including the first one,
Our Army,"' belovedby the
Shirleysand set to an American melody. Amos was greatly influencedby
Pearson,his ministry, like his teacher's,characterizedby industry,tenderness and humility. Four lines in one of Pearson'ssongs are a fitting
memorial for Amos who, after five yearsof pioneer servicein Coventry,
Philadelphia,Pennsylvania;Paterson,New Jersey;and Lawrence, Massachusetts;was drowned off the coast of Asbury Park, New Jersey,on
August 11, 1884,just after farewellingfrom Lawrenceand eagerto open
fire with Annie in Boston:
We'rean Army fightingfor a gloriousKing;
We will makethe worldwith hallelujahs
ring;
With victoriousvoiceswe will eversins:
There'ssalvation
for the world!
At the time of his death Amos was helping with a seriesof holiness
meetingswhile Annie checkedon the corps in London, Ontario, Canada,
in which she had servedas first commissionedofficer for some monthsin
1882,
Amos' death brought shock and grief to multitudes of persons he had
blessed and introduced to God. An Asbury Park newspapermemorial
"the man with
reported that he was known as
the gentle voice and
impressivegesture." He died of a heart attackwhile swimming, caughtin
the undertow.He had signalledfor help but the rescuer'sboat capsized.By
the time it had righted, Amos had beencarried about 100yards away and
soon was sinking beneaththe waves.The newspaperaccountofthe funeral
from the Daily Spray of Asbury Park, August 14, 1884conveysthe impact
not only of 1884Army ceremoniesbut also of Amos' life:
rWilliam Pearson:Bom in 1832 into a Primitive Methodist family, Pearsonwas converted
at the age of 14, and soon after came under the preaching and influence of the American
evangelistJamesCaughey who, when preaching in Nottingham, also strongly impressed
young William Booth.
2Ring the Bell, Watchman, composed in 1865 by Henry Clay Work,
an American.
145
146 / PREACHING
LADIES
DIED at Asbury Park Monday, August 11, Amos Shirley. Funeral
Friday, August 15, 2:30 at Funeral Director Sexton'srooms, Main
Street. Services at the Salvation Army barracks at 3 p.m. sharp.
Interment at Mt. ProspectCemetery.
The detailed report in the Daily Spray read'.
The funeral of Captain Shirley, of The Salvation Army, who was
drowned in the ocean foot of SeventhAvenue on Monday, took place
yesterday and was attended by an immense crowd of friends and
curiosity seekers.The body,dressedin full uniform, was enclosedin a
neat walnut casket and was looked at by thousandsof people as it lay
in J. H. Sexton'srooms on Main Street. Major Moore and his staff
were presentas were delegationsof the Army from different sections
of the country.
The Army met at the new banacks on Main Street at 2 p.m. Headed
by a band it proceededdown Main Street,singingas they marched,in
a very impressive manner: There'sSweet Restin Heaven. At Sexton's
an open-air prayer and experiencemeeting was held for half an hour.
The procession reformed and the coffin, over which was placed the
flag of the Army, was borne to the barracks by six comrades. The
services proper were attendedby an unusually large crowd and were
conductedby Major Moore assistedby CaptainsRainey,Howey, and
"Huppy Bill" Cooper.SalvationArmy songswere sung, portions of
Scripture were read-experiences related and eulogies on the deceasedsoldier indulged in.
To those unacquaintedwith the unusual methodsused by the Army
the scenewas more ludicrousthan solemn-but to the unconvertedit
was uncomfortablyimpressive.The servicesover,the Army took up
the line of march to Mt. ProspectCemetery.
Amos' death seemed tragic, but he would have testified, as always, that
"The
Devil has overshot the mark again," and he was right. In her grief,
Annie begged Major Moore, then commander of Salvation Army forces in
North America, to allow her to open fire on Boston, feeling she must be
active. This was accomplished in September. In October, Moore, distressed because General Booth demanded unquestioning obedience and
would not incorporate in America, led a revolt, taking most of the soldiery
with him, plus all the paraphernalia he could seize, including songbooks,
flags, crest andThe War Cry. Annie, with three others, remained loyal to
Booth, and from temporary headquarters firmly commanded the frightened and faltering remnant until help came from London.
Appnilix
C
Histoiette
ANNIE SHIRLEY
"Captain
Annie Shirley was among the most touching exhortersthat the
people of London (Canada)had ever heard," wrote Commissioner Railton
regarding pioneer work in Canada. "She could direct a prayermeeting with
inspired skill. Time after time she would sing alone a simple song of
invitation. So charged was her singing with entreaty that quite often there
would be a mass movement toward the penitent-form."
Though the foregoing statementcorrectly describesAnnie's evangelistic
ministry, it does not touch on her administrative skill, demonstratedfirst
when Eliza took command of the Philadelphia #2' corps.It is assumedthat
Amos and she worked in their customary mannel and it appears quite
possible that he may have held a secular position to help finance her
religious work.
Until spring of 1881,it appearsthat the Shirleys remainedin command of
Philadelphia #1, after which (for a rime) Amos became aide-de-campto
the new commanderfor North America, Major Thomas Moore, and Annie
was sent to Baltimore, Maryland on June 19, 1881,with LieutenantMary
Pilgrim, her first American assistant.Victories were many in Baltimore,
reporters often making such comments as this: "The women of The
Salvation Army attracted almost as much attention as Bamum's street
parade."
During the first week of September,1882, Annie was hurriedly sent as
the first commissioned officer to London, Ontario, where a few months
earlier two very young men, Jack Addie and Joe Ludgate, converts from
England, had begun Army meetings. They were so successfulthat they
soon wrote to General Booth for officers. Booth told them to write Railton,
but their letter was returned from the U.S. dead-letteroffice. Again they
wrote, this time contacting Major Moore. Captain Wass, who was
journeying to Toronto where work had also been started unofficially,
traveledwith Annie.
Of this junket, Railton later wrote: "In the hands of these two officers
was the measureof successor failure that would attend the first organized
efforts of the Army in Canada. No better messengerscould have been
sent."
In London, Annie met an ugly situation. previously, on Monday, July
17, Moore, travelingto London, had been "met with rejoicing on the part
of the London contingent." Moore had appointedWalter Bailey as Captain
147
I48 / PREACHING LADIES
and left Lieutenant Courts (whom it appearshe had brought with him) to
assist. Unhappily, the young men publicly disagreedabout duties. After
dismissingCourts and moving Bailey to Brooklyn, Moore sent Annie to
bind up the wounds and get the new London soldiery back on the
battlefield.On September4, TheLondonAdvertisernoted Annie's arrival:
Captain Sherlock [Shirley], the female commander,arrives: On
Thursdaynight last, CaptainSherlockarrivedin this city, as precommand.
CaptainAddie,whotook
andassumed
viouslyannounced,
of "HappyBailey"
chargeof theArmy pro tem,sincethe departure
for Brooklyn,will still remainin London,beingsecondin command.
A reportervisitedthe barracksover York StreetBridgelast night
during service and found the place so full that it was almost
andthenonly by climbingthrougha
to gain admittance
impossible
window.. .
Annie's appointment in London provoked both verbal and physical
attacks, the former often seeming the more disruptive. For example, in
"blood-and-fire experiencemeeting," a Mr. Holden
November,during a
askedif he would be allowed ten minutesto speak.He was permittedfive
"proceeded to take theological exception to the work of the
minutes and
"In the midst of his addressthe Army
Army," accordingto theAdvertiser.
broke in with one of their stirring gospel songsand effectually drowned the
speaker'svoice."
When the song was finished he attemptedto resume. The Reverend
Mr. Savage,in whosechurch the Salvationistswere worshiping,protested
Mr. Holden's indiscretion,after which Mr. Holden said he would speakon
and defied the police to touch him. Another hymn was begunduring which
"was finally
a policeman advancedto the platform and Mr. Holden
pacified."
Next, a Mr. Munroe of St. Andrews Church arose, watch in hand, and
askedpermissionto speakfor five minutes,beggedto prefacehis remarks
"Let your women
by calling attentionto I Corinthians14:34, as follows:
keep silence in the churches;for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but
they are commandedto be under obedience, as also saith the law!"
"the Rev. Mr. Savageinterposedwith the strongest
The report noted that
possible rebuttal evidence, based on Scriptural authority. Munroe again
tried to speak, but singing choked him off and he left."
A third and more violent intemrption occurred as a Mr. Marsh attempted
to ascendthe platform, gesticulatingexcitedly.Mr. Savageprotested.Great
"with Mr. Marsh withdrawing to the vestry, and the
confusion ensued,
Army vigorously singing, After the Battle Is Over.
"Throushout all these vexatiousdisturbances,"concluded the Globe
Appendix C | 149
"Captain Shirley and her soldiers maintained the most perfect
report,
temper and patience . . . the closing appeal of Captain Shirley was full of
pathos and fervour."
One of the most spectacularbattles during Annie's command in l,ondon
was fought on a summer morning when the Army was requestedby the
local military post commanderto conduct a service for the soldiers of the
Crown quarteredjust outside London. Regular military inspections were
held, and town crowds always watched the soldiers drill.
Two drunken men began to argue over the Army's merits. The crowd
chose sides and hundreds were soon embroiled, with the Army in the
middle, badly battered. Eventually the Crown's soldiers effected a rescue,
and the meeting was continued, protected by red-coats and shining
"Palms of Victory" and a reporter from the London
bayonets. Annie sang
Free Press, who had come to jest, was converted. Twenty Canadian
soldiers knelt in uniform that night at the Army penitent-form.
During the summer of 1883 Annie became ill and returned to England
for a rest (there were no regular vacationperiods in thosedays), farewelling
from London on July 16, 1883. She didn't rest long for by December27,
she'd opened fire in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and she and Amos were on
their way to open Lawrence, Massachusetts, just before Christmas.
Lawrence proved a victorious, if taxing, command, and about the frst of
August the Shirleys farewelled to enjoy a short rest before opening fire on
Boston, Amos to help with holiness meetingsin Asbury Park, New Jersey
and Annie to check on the London corps. Here, in Annie's words, is the
next tragic development:
"We were ready to open Boston . . . When I had rested for two weeks I
received a telegram at two o'clock in the moming saying my husbandhad
drowned while bathing . . . After his funeral I had to rest again (about two
weeks). I then asked Major Moore to let me work or I should die and was
and Maine Division,'going
made divisional officer for the Massachusetts
Boston."
to
open
immediately
When she arrived, good campaignerthat she was, she found her way to
the offices of the Boston Globe to announcethe invasion, stating that the
Army would open fire the next day, Sunday, September6, 1884.
"We intend to move all Boston at once," said she. "We shall open the
FederhenHall, North RussellStreet,at l1 o'clock a.m., but beforewe open
tsome people claim that, with this appointment, Annie became the first Salvation Army
woman divisional commander on the North American continent, and the second in the world.
It is significant to note that it was her first corps officer, Captain Caroline Reynolds, who
became the first woman divisional commander in the world, commanding lreland after her
stay in Nottingham.
I5O / PREACHING LADIES
we will have a paradebeginningat 10:30.We will hold anotherservicein
the hall at 3 p.m. and probablyone at 7:30 in the evening.Next week, we
will have a meeting at7:30 each eveningand everybodyis invited.
"The Devil
broke our bass drum at Salem, but we have plenty of
tambourines,cymbals, triangles,etc. to furnish music to bless the Lord.
We intend to make a strong campaignin Boston."
On Monday, in a report entitled "Boston Besieged:The SalvationArmy
Fires a Volley, the Devil in Disorder,SevenSouls Capturedfor Glory but
the Devil ScoresOne in a Night Sortie," the Globe gave a sensational
account of the evening meeting, with tongue in cheek. Apparently the
crowd had behavedin a most disorderly manner,Annie declaring, "We
believein order hereand we intendto haveit. Order is Heaven'sfirst rule.
Put out that cigar and throw it out, if you please," she commandedone
gentleman.The report concluded:
The eveningengagement
openedwell for thecauseof the Army but
just asCaptainShirleywasaboutto fire a Scriptural
volleytheenemy
setup a greatnoiseat theendof thehall . . . a closeconflictwashad
with the foe, CaptainShirleybeingin the thickof the fight . . .
TWopatrolmenguardedthe streetdoor,apparentlyunconscious
of the
racketin the hall so the Army of salvationandthe armyof Satanhad
the fight to themselves.
CaptainShawof Peabodyreceivedseveral
blowson the headandothersweremoreor lessknockedaboutand
mauledin thegeneralscrimmage.
Aftertheskirmishhadraisedsome
little attention,
thepatrolmen
arrivedon thescene.Therewasa lull in
theconflict,theenemyretreated
in a slowmotionandtheArmybegan
to look afterits wounded.
Amos was promoted to Glory in August, Annie opened Boston in
September,and in October, Major Thomas Moore led a rebellion in the
ranks; only four officer leadersremained faithful, Annie being one of
them. She continued to give strong leadership to the disabled and
discouraged remnant and speedily opened the following corps in New
England:
Boston #1, MA
Boston #2 MA
Fall River, N{A
Thunton, MA
Providence,RI
New Bedford, MA
Weymouth, MA
Quincy, MA
Newburyport, MA
Pittsfield, MA
Westfield, MA
Saco,ME
Biddeford, ME
Lewiston. ME
Brunswick, ME
Portland.ME
Augusta, ME
Dover, NH
Great Falls, NH
Appendix C / 151
At one time Annie also led Salvationistsin Kentucky,though datesare
not available. In 1886, farewelling from the Massachusettsand Marne
Division, shemarriedStaff CaptainJohnT. "Happy Jack" Dale, a member
of the pioneerMassachusetts
brigade.SaidAnnie, "I knew him to be a real
blood-and-firefellow who was all for the Kingdom." Having for sometime
servedas divisional commanderfor the WesternPennsylvaniaDivision,
Major Dale with Annie commandedWestemPennsylvaniauntil February,
1887, when they were appointedto open fire in the broad and beckoning
stateof Iowa. Advance scoutinghad been conductedin Des Moines, the
local paper later reporting that "members of establishedchurch creeds
looked upon them in askance.Toughsfelled them with decayedvegetables
and clods of dirt and hooted them the first night they paraded and
conductedserviceson the street." On March 3, 1887,the first Des Moines
corps was opened, locatedat 115Tenth Street, and in Januaryof 1888 a
"training garrison"
was opened.By the end of 1888 the following corps
were in operationin Iowa:
Des Moines
Keokuk
Clinton
Maquoketa
CouncilBluffs Marshalltown
Shortly after that, Annie waspromotedto Glory, concludingvictoriously
a preaching-administrative
ministry that began when she couldn't bear to
see her beloveddaughter,Eliza, cany, alone, grueling responsibilityfor
Christ'sKingdom.
Annie's magnetism,power preachingand sweet singing were used to
surprisingeffect on peoplewho, for the most part, were totally unlike her.
To the last she eagerly and cheerfully followed the command of her
"Thckle
General:
theml The peoplemust be soughtout in the streets.We
must be street-sweepers
for Christ!"
Appendix D
Family Tree
AMOS SHIRLEY
Amos Shirley - Born: Circa 1839in or aroundCoventry.England
Died: August 14, 1884at Asbury Park, New Jersey.Now buried at
Kensico, New York
Married: Annie Allen (who, when widowed, married Staff Captain
John T. Dale)
Born: Foleshill,England
Died: 1893in Nashville,Tennessee
Only child of Amos and Annie Shirley: Eliza Annie
Born: October 9, 1862in Coventry,England
Died: September18, 1932in Racine,Wisconsin
Buried: Chicago,Illinois
Married: Captain Philip Symmondsof Cardiff, Wales
Died: Wisconsin.1895
Buried: Fish Creek. Wisconsin
Eliza's First Child * Annie Alma
Born: September29, 1883in Manchester,England
Married: Edward William Knudsen, GovernmentEmployee
A. Son - Perc Edward - B.A. ArchitecturalEngineer
Vice Presidentof PittsburshPlate Glass
Married: Evelyn Michels
l. Son - KennethMartin - B.S. IndustrialMarketing, Ohio
M.A. BusinessAdministration
Married: Mary Byrnes - B.A. Journalism
Former Associate Editor, Wild Life
Magazine
a. Son - Brian Byrne
2. Son - Thomas Michael - B.A. Economics- Northwestern
M.A. BusinessAdministrationColumbia
Married: Laura Bucknell of Bucknell Universitv familv - also
originatedin Philadelphia
B.A. - IntemationalAffairs
a. Daughter - (s1s
152
Appendix D | 153
Phillip -8.A. Political Science- Marquette
M.A. BusinessAdministration- Marquette
Married: Angela Byrnes -8.A. MarquetteUniversity
Employed- Stateof Wisconsin
a. Daughter- CaseYBYrne
b. Daughter- Elizabeth
B. Daughter - Phyllis Anne - Housewife and Accountant
Born: February 12, 19O6
Married: William Hunter - InsuranceBusiness(deceased)
3. Son -
Shirley Anne - Homemaker
(married Ronald Karrow)
2. Daughter - Janis Mae - Homemaker - Real Estate
(manied ChesterStroYneY)
a. Child - StaceY
b. Child - KelleY
C. Daughter - Everald Eliza - S.A. Officer - Accountant
Born: January30, l9ll
Married: Captain RussellCrowell - S.A. Officer and Director of
PlannedGiving, Divisional S.A. Headquarters,
SouthernCalifornia Division
l. Son - Gary Bruce - B.S. EasternMichigan
S.A. Officer
Referee of Juvenile Court
GenesseeCounty, Flint, Michigan
Born: April 6, 1935
Married: Rosa L. Z,eckert
a. Son - Greggory Bruce
b. Daughter - Deborah GaY
c. Daughter- Kimberly KaY
2. Son - Dennis Warren -Associate Degree
Owns BusinessForm Agency
Born: February 10, 1939
Married: Patricia Prentice
a. Son - Geffory
b. Daughter - Dawn
c. Son - Jason
D. Daughter- Glyndon Gertrude
Born: December 28, l9l5
Married: Frank Larsen- Retail Business
l. Daughter-
I54 / PREACHING LADIES
l. Daughter- Ruth Anne - Homemakerand Accountant
Married: Neal Thnner, Manager, Savings and Loan Association
a. Son - Timothy
b. Son - Mark
c. Son - Patrick
Eliza's Second Child - Shirley Philip (son)
Born: 1884 in Londonderry,Ireland
S.A. Offiser and Minister
Married: Laura Dierking
A. Daughter- Beatrice
Married: Ray Dimmin - Engraver
l. Daughter- ShirleyRandall,R.N.
B. Son - Phillip (Owned Shoe Store Chain in Thmpa, Florida)
Married: June Hammond
l. Daughter- Kathleen- Housewife
2. Son - Phillip Larry - Electrician
C. Daughter- Florence
Married: Dr. Dudley Sides, Dentist (Retail Business)
D. Daughter - Laura Marie - 2 Years Jr. College - S.A. Officer
Married: Captain Homer Fuqua
l. Daughter- Julia Cynthia
2. Son - Bruce Andrew
3. Son - Benjamin James
Gertrude Sarah -5.A. Officer
Served with Forces in France.
Wodd War I
Born: December23,1886 in Pennsylvania
Died: 1972
Married: l9l9 to Dr. Maxwell McCloud, Ph.D. - Noted Author,
Professor,Kansas State University
A. Daughter- ElizabethRuby - B.S. Home Economics
Married: Robert Gruber - Owned Hardware Store
l. Daughter- Trudy Ann - B.A.
2. Son - Clifford - Carpenter
3. Daughter- Janice- AssociateDegree
4. Son - Kenneth
Eliza's Third Child -
B. Daughter- Laurel Daisy - B.S. Home Economics
Married: Vita Percial - China Maker
1. Son - Frank - Ph.D. Professorof Biology, Westmont
College, Montecita, California
Appendix D | 155
C. Daughter - Iris Delight - Homemaker
Married: Vernon Buell - Manager, Retail Business
1. Child - Dale
2. Child - Lynn
3. Daughter - Ruth
4. Son - William
Eliza's Child -
Ethel (died in infancy)
Eliza's Fourth Child - Daisy Katherine
Born: November6, 1890 in Bangor,,Maine
Died: December 27, 1964
Married: LeonardWilkins, S.A. Officer
A. Son - Leonard Wilkins - S.A. Officer
Manied: ElizabethFynn - S.A. Officer
l. Daughter - Shirley Elizabeth - Bookkeeper
2. Son - John Leonard - Jr. College - Auditor
3. Daughter- JoyceMarie - S.A. Officer
Married: Lieutenant Robert Lester
B. Son - Robert Wilkins. S.A. Officer
Married: Rose Smith
Eliza's Fifth Child - Evanseline E. - S.A. Officer
Born: June 10. 1893
Died: August I, 1956
Married: Captain Sandy Nelson
Opened Echo Grove Camp, Michigan, under Colonel
Withers
Opened Royal Oak Corps, Michigan
A. Daughter - Janet Shirley - Accountant
Eliza's Sixth Child - Ruby
Born: 1895 in Menominee,Wisconsin
Married: John Broughton, Architect and Musician (Ruby later married
Richard Scoble, and both were tragically killed in an
explosionwhile managinga chain of bakeries.)
A. Daughter - Gertrude
Married: Thomas North
l. Daughter- Lynn (Phillips) - Teacher'sAide
2. Daughter - Charlene (Scrims) - Public School
Appendix E
Recipe
ELIA'S CORNISHPASTIES
PASTRY
6 cups sifted flour
I tbsp. salt
l7z cups finely choppedsuet
About 7+ cup water
Sift flour and salt. Work in suet and add water to make a nice dough.
Divide in 8 portions and roll out in circles. Lay on bake sheet and place
filling on half of every circle.
Moisten edges and fold to make semi-circle. Press edges, fluting. Make
vents on top.
Bake lYz hours at 375 degreesapproximately (coal stove longer). Watch.
PASTRYFILLING
t/+lb. lean pork
2/z lb. bonelessshoulder or round steak
lh cups choppedleek or onion
6 cups thinly sliced raw potatoes
I cup sliced rutabaga
Vz cup finely cut kidney suet
2 tbsp. salt
Pepperto taste.
Tiim meat and cut in thin slivers. Put all ingredients together.
156
l
AppendixE | 157
SALUE CIIESIIAM S AD A]YIATTON
PASTRY:
Make enoughpastry for two double-crustpie shells (suet and lard hard
to digest!). Roll out in 8 circles. Lay on baking sheetand place filling on
half of every circle. Moisten edgesandfold to make semi-circle. Press
edges. Make vents on top.
PASTRYFILUNG:
Combine:
l1/z lb. (more if you can afford it) round steak
I cup onion, chopped very small
4 cups potatoes, cubed very small
I tbsp. salt (more if you're salty)
I tsp. butter for each pasty
Not much pepper
Bake 375 degreesfor 45 minutes, putting I tsp. water in each vent 10
minutes before done. Makes I entree portions.
Mmmmmmm, great!
Appendix F
Sermon by Elizal
HOW TO CONQUER DEPRESS/ON
"Behold, there came
a voice unto him and said, What doestthou
here,Elijah?"(I Kings19:l3b).
In studying valiants who are brought before us in the Scriptureswe
cannot fail to observethat the men who left a distinct mark on the age in
which they lived and whose influence and power have come down to us
have,without exception,beensubjectto seasonsof soul darknessand deep
depression,weaknessand despair;and it is an undeniablefact that almost
invariably they failed where they seemedto be the strongest.
Consider John the Baptist. A multitude heard his doctrine and were
baptized by him, and when he saw Jesuscoming, it was his voice that
cr\ed, " Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world!,'
When Jesushad prevailedupon John to baptizehim, saying, .Suffer it to
be so now for thus it becomethus to fuffill all righteousness," John's eyes
actuallysaw the heavensopenand the Holy Ghostrest upon Jesusin a dove
shape.He heard a voice from heavensaying, "This is my belovedSon, in
whom I am well pleased."
Yet, shortly after, we find Johndepressedand discouraged,sendinghis
disciplesto ask Jesus,who was now engagedin His public ministry, , Art
thou He that should come? Or do we lookfor another?"
ConsiderimpetuousPeter,who declared,"Thou art the Christ, the Son
of the living God." Peter,who was so sure of his strengththat he said,
"Though
all menforsake Thee, yet will not 1." 2This samepeterbecameso
fearful when he was chargedwith being one of Jesus'disciples that he
denied with an oath, saying, "I know not the man."
Martin Luther was once so sorely vexedby the wickednessof the world
and by the dangers that beset the Church that he became greatly
discouraged.One morning he saw his wife dressedin mourning and asked
in surprise, "Who is dead?"
"Why,
doir't you know," she replied, "God in Heavenis dead."
"How
can you talk suchnonsense,"said Luther. "How can God die? He
is immortal and will live through all eternity."
"Is
that really true?" she asked.
'Sermon from personal papers
of Mrs. Everald Crowell, Eliza's granddaughter,
lThis is how the verse appears
in Eliza's sermon.
158
Appendix F I 159
"How can you doubt it?" repliedLuther. "As surelyas thereis a God in
Heaven so sure it is that He can never die."
"And yet," said his wife, "this you do not doubt yet you are thus
hopelessand discouraged."
"Then," Luther later commented,"I observedwhat a wise woman my
wife was and masteredmy discouragement."
Elijah, who is before us in the text, was a noble, courageous, faithful
man of God. See him at Mt. Carmel. Things had been going wrong in
Israel. King Ahab had marriedidolatrousJezebelwho had broughtwith her
the rites of Baal, and everywhere the hills were smoking with pagan
sacrifices. The people were bewildered. Whom were they to worship as the
true God? Three years of famine had worked havoc among them, but there
was to be a settlementin the presenceof the hungry, half-starvedmultitude.
The true God should defend His claims.
Baal's altar should have a sacrifice and the Lord's altar should have a
sacrifice, and the prophetsof each should call upon their God. The God
that answeredby fire would be honored. Preparationswere made and the
"Oh, Baal hear asl" But
prophetsof Baal, 450 in number,beganto cry,
though they cried l-rom morning till the sun sank, he answerednot. Then
"Oh,
God of my fathers,
the prophet of the Lord stood forth and prayed,
people
God."
know
that
Thou
art
day
and
let
the
hear me this
There was a moment of breathlesssilence. Then it came-a blazing
flame out of heaven ... nearer ... nearet until it fell upon the altar,
consuming the sacrifice, consuming the stonesof the altar and lapping up
the water in the trenches.Another moment of silence and then thousandsof
"The
Lord He is the God."
voices shouted,
Now the sceneis changed.Elijah is not on Mt. Carmel but on Horeb.
The idolatrous priesthood was rooted out, but Jezebelremained and Elijah
must escapeif he would savehis life. He fled first to Beershebawhere he
left the boy who attended him. Then on through the desert praying he
would die. On again until after 40 days' journey he reached the sacred
mountain, the very scene of the great revelations to Moses. There he
enteredinto a cave and gavehimself up to the bitterestthoughts.Why did
weakness follow strength? Was not everything forfeit for which he had
struggled? Was not his ministry closing in shame and defeat while the
insolent, idolatrousJezebelcompletedthe ruin of Israel?Suddenlya voice
"What
doest thou here, Elijah?"
reachedhim with the solemn question,
He was hidden away from Jezebel, from his own servant, from all the
world, but God found him. We cannothide from God. The psalmistsays:
"Whither shall I go
from Thy Spirit? Or whither shall I flee from Thy
presence?"
160 / PREACHING LADIES
God commanded Elijah to gd stand upon the mount, and as he stood
there was a strong wind that rent the mountain, broke the rock in pieces.
After the wind, an earthquakeand after the earthquakea fire. But the Lord
"What
doestthou
was in noneof these.Then a still small voice questioned,
here, Elijah? Dost thou flee from Jezebel?Couldn't thou depend upon
Almighty power for protection?Dost thou, so great a man, so great a
prophet,so famedfor resolutionand courage,run thus?Is this a placefor a
prophet of the Lord? Is this a time for such a man to retteat when the Lord
has need of thee?"
"The children of Israel have
Elijah complained,
forsaken Thy covenant,
thrown downThine altars and slainThy prophets with the sword; and I,
even I only, am left; and they seekmy life, to take it away."
Discouragementis a curse. When a man is discouraged,the battle is
lost. Neither God nor man can use a discouragedperson. A discouraged
soldieris a defeatedsoldier.Trials and difficulties are neverintendedto be
discouragements.They are intended to be helps to us. What is it that
purifies the silver? The fire. What makes a soldier? Not a bright new
uniform. The regimentsthat marchedup to the capitol for the final review
in 1865in their bright new uniformsand with their stainlessflags presented
a beautifulspectacle,but they weregreetedwith no cheers.However,when
regimentsfollowed whose flags were rent and torn by bullets and flying
shell, with uniformsbegrimedby the dust and smokeof battleuntil noneof
the original hue was visible, the earth shook with the applauseof the
enthusiasticcrowd. You see, these men were heroes. They had fought,
enduredand conquered.Supposethey had grown discouragedwhen trial
and difficulty met and surroundedthem?
If they becomeso it is
Trials and difficulties are not discouragements.
You
have
forgotten
their ministry to you.
you
have been defeated.
that
becameso dizzy
River
on
horseback,
fording
the
Susquehanna
Mr. Astor,
that he nearly lost his seat.Suddenlyhe receiveda blow on the chin from
"Look upl Look up!"
the hunter who was his companion,with the words:
He did so and recoveredhis balance.There was no dangeras long as he
looked up. The waters were not dangerousof themselves,but when he
looked at nothing else he was in dangerof going under.
Elijah was disappointed.His one greatburdenhad beenthe Lord's glory.
"Let thepeople know that Thou art God!" he'd cried and when the answer
came he thought victory was complete. He looked for a great and
permanentreformation.He saw in his hopefulnessan enthusiasticpeople
sweepingawayevery vestigeof idolatry and his nativeland prosperousand
holy. Now, the vision had faded like a dream. The cup of successwas
Appendix F I 16l
dashedfrom his lips just when he was about to drink and insteadof a
revival there was more fierce persecution.
If he had only looked up! If his outlook had not beenso nturow he would
have comforted his heart with the assuranceof God's continuedblessing.
This demoralizing, devilish discouragementhas found a counterpartin
many of our lives. Almost every Christianworker has at some time been
with John Bunyan'sChristian in the doubting castleof giant despair.Our
hopefulnesshas pictured successeswhich have not been realized. Our
. efforts have not brought about the desired results. We have been overwhelmed with a senseof failure and defeat. We have been shamedand
What
humiliated.We havegiven ourselvesup to hopelessdiscouragement.
a mistake. The only indication of successthat is visible may be a small
cloud on the horizonno bigger than a man'shand, but it is the promiseof a
shower. What if the meadows are scorched and the leaves of the forest
"Who
hath
withered and charred?What though we are compelledto ask,
Letus
arm
of
the
Lord
revealed?"
believedour report and to whom is the
keep our eyesup. Let us doubt not!
"Poor Ehjah, you've had a hard time. You havejust
God did not say,
"co
ro woRK pr-tres. Go to
causefor discouragement."Oh no! He said,
you
Hazael
be king over Syria and
and
anoint
to
here?Go
work. What do
Elisha
and
anoint
to be prophet in your
king
Israel
to
be
over
anoint Jehu
place.co ro woRK, Et-t:es!"
There is our answer.
Go to work, Katie and Jackand Jimmy and Poll. Go to work, knowing
your Redeemerlives and loves and will never leave you. Go to work,
knowing if you do your very best-thinking, planning, toiling-then and
then only will God go sweepingon before you and pushingon behind.
God lives!
God loves!
God cares!
Elijah, stop that self-pity, that boring do-nothingness.Oh, lift up your
eyes and-co ro wonx!
中 Pθ″冴れ C
Elizaる Song(HOrds by Eliza and rllusic
‐
by SongstePLeader J.H.Broughton)
Just to be with」esus.
E. gruorlslU,&t)
word! bt cowMm
Iulc
bt' EodemLs^DBB
Allegro moderato.u. J,up.
r. Lorg blrihe
,. SoDedeJ,l
niou-tei"s ny ioul*
L}w ,ot ho* 3o@it
rs - stm],, Grthcr-i,ia
will
b€, Wbed
Dy
-
J. E tlGoatof
"Hこ こ段▲〕
(■
flowlsof
.scoLsrc
ご。ヤ Will
fuww
搬 や温 営
8掛
。
ぼ樹号
, 監鮮t聯
撤鷲鯨配撤P路杵fe
操耽i推
地 側.塩縄品f縫私
°
L 符哺 そ
盟 _住
挙神
洩注輔 指
飢:押球地 お
撒淵鵡絆
rttL唱
cl{oRus.
Moderato.M.J: roo
A S, aIS SI。
こ￨
デ 器ヽ
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j t t
mryi
Just
toh.velli"
JIJJr
lroxLBc,clobe
rr
Jurto
bevithJe..u.
ev-'ry
day,
Ju6t
J
bv
uJ 6ide to
stry'
F-FlJl
162
O!,
tolndUc
FJ,F
lov€Dc,
I rl
coacslat
J
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Elinも Song(wOrds by Etta and intlsた
b y S o ■ 拶 t e ぃL e a d e r 工 H , B r o u g h t o n )
i
1 0pen I述
VOrd8 by cO翻 ほ魚 DANT E SvttNDB “
ne eves,Lor乱
れ●ine t7 s A)
Music by ttNぉ
55
TER‐LEttSR J■
BROgcII帆
(FL●ine uS A〕
ｍ
軸
エ
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飾
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辞樵錦ざぼ
識
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一一
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五 Ｆ
ｍ■
．
は ｖ
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==ほ食￨ご
1二亀二 ￨ド
T揖 1孟求 王士ェ‖
lr431 1‐
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crc-., I !!d, OL, let
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Glnd-ly
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LPad-iilg
163
me
t,r
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vic -
Appendix H
Amos' Song'
WHY NOT?
O come to the Saviour, dear sinner,
He's watching and waiting for you;
Then why will you carry your burden,
Do c<lmeand be happy and true.
CHORUS:
Sinner, sinner, come to thy Saviour just now,
Sinner, sinner, come to thy Saviour just now.
Then do not be backward in coming,
My Jesusis calling for thee;
He bought your salvation, dear brother,
When nailed upon Calvary's tree.
Your peace may flow calm as a river,
If you will but give up your sin,
And leave all your sinful companions,
The Saviour will take you all in.
He gave up His life to redeem you,
From sin, fear and hell, and the grave,
And now He is waiting to bless you,
O come to Him now for He'll save.
O come now, dear sinner, to Jesus,
He's anxious to save you today,
And with outstretchedarms to embrace you
"O
He's calling,
come, come away!"
Let go this vain world with its pleasures,
Break off from the bondage of hell;
Then you shall enjoy this salvation,
And go with the Master to dwell.
lPrinted in issue of 1'lreSalvation News (forerunner in United Statesof lhe War Cry), July
10, 1880by GeorgeScon Railton, Commissioner.Melody: "Why Not Come to Him Now?"
1律
Appendix I
並 d比o■GttdbqL間 にtOrs
1 2 o い挽s t m Ⅲ
奇t i c O し
SiCω己
Orに
チ
May 20, 1952
Ure. Connandant
Care of Coloael
719 llorth State
Cblcago, ILl.
My very
dear
Symoada
Arthur
T. Blercr
gtreet
Urs.
gymonds:
I have Just had the eorror
of
through Colonel Br€rer,
of your
1earDlng,
eerioue l1lness
and I ato anxlous for you to
know that ny lovlng
and eernest
thoughts
prayers are rlth
you aG you face, perbaps,
g
r
e
a
t
d
i
v
l
d
i
n
g
the
Llne rhich
separates our
eartb fron the realns of the blest.
troubled
Yours hae been a ltfe
of historic
No tioubt
aervlce and sustalned victory.
there have been clouds and ehadolya, but Dehlnd
then, lighttng
ther0 up rith
heavenly eplendor,
there has alray8 been the Saviour - falthful
and true and. aDle to keep those Fho put thelr
ln Fln.
tru6t
The Arny r1Ll ever be grateful
for your faithful
devotlon
through the poverty
hardshlps
and
of the early days, and yout nane
w111 be enrolLed ln honor anong the ploneerB
of the organlzatlon.
l{ay the evenlng daye of your Llfe,
rhether
fer or nany, be peaceful
and happy
ln rcflectlon
upon the past, ln the reallzatlon
g
a
v
l
o
r
.
r
r
t
g
of our
tender preaenco sustatnlng
you ln phyeioal
and ln
reaknesa and eufforlng,
a cnlldlltc
contented
ln Eln for tbe futurc.
trugt
Truly all Els rays are pl6asant
naye, and a1l
HlB pathe are peace I
h冴
盟静
ool■lANDER― INAcHIEr
165
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Booth, CatherineMumford. AggressiveChristianitv, Practical Sermons.
Boston:McDonaldand Gill, 1883.
Booth, Catherine Mumford. Female Ministry; Or, Woman's Right to
Preachthe Gospel.New York: The SalvationArmy Supplies,Printing
and PublishingDepartment,1915.
Booth, CatherineMumford. Life and Death, Being Reportsof Addresses
Delivered in London. New York: SalvationArmy Headquarters,1891.
Booth, CatherineMumford. Paperson Godliness.London: International
Headquarters,1890.
166
Bibliography / 167
Booth, CatherineMumford. Popular Christianity.4th edition. New york:
SalvationArmy PublishingHouse, 1901.
Booth, Evangeline Cory. Woman. New York: Fleming H. Revell Co.,
1930.
Booth, FlorenceE. Mothers and the Empire and Other Addresses.Lonoon:
The SalvationArmy, 1914.
Booth. wi I I iam. I nter nuti onal Sraff Councit Addresse
s. London: Salvation
Army Book Dept., 1904.
Booth, william. A Ladder to Holiness. London: Salvationistpublishine
and Supplies,1951.
Booth, William. Letters to Salvationistson Religion for Every Day.
London: The SalvationArmy Book Dept., 1902.
Booth, William. SalvationSoldiery,A Seriesof Addresseson the Requirements of Jesus Christ's Seryice, 2nd edition. London: International
Headquarters,1890.
Booth-Clibborn,Catherine. TheyEndured.London: Marshall,Morgan and
S c o t t ,L t d . , 1 9 3 4 .
Booth:Tircker,Frederick St. George de Lautour. The Life of Catherine
Booth, The Mother of The Salvation Army. New york: F. Revell,
1892.
Brebner,JohnBarletand Allan Newins. TheMaking of Modern Britain.W.
M. Norton & Co.
Brengle, ElizabethSwift. House-topSaints.London: The SalvationArmy.
Brengle, SamuelLogan. Helps to Holiness. London: The SalvationArmv.
t952.
Capon, Robert Farrar.An Offering of Uncles. New york: Sheedand Ward.
1967.
Carothers, Merlin. Power in Praise. Logos International.
Carpenter,Minnie Lindsay. Women of the Flag. London: Salvationist
Publishingand Supplies,1945.
Cattell,EverettLewis. The Spiritof Holiness.GrandRapids,Mich.: W.B.
Eerdmans,1963.
Chesham,Sallie. Born to Battle, TheSalvationArmy inAmerlcc. Chicago:
Rand McNally & Co., 1965.
chesham, Sallie. Salvation Army History Notes, School for officers'
Training, Chicago, 1963-1966.
168/ PREACHING LADIES
Chesham, Sallie. Trouble Doesn't Happen Next Tuesday.Waco, Texas:
Word Books. 1972.
Collier, Richard. The General Next to God. New York: E. P. Dutton &
Co., 1965.
Coutts, FrederickL. The First Salvationisl.London: SalvationistPublishing and Supplies,1944.
Cox, Adelaide Hotchpotch. London: The SalvationArmy, 1937.
Cunningham, C. Willet. English Women'sClothing in the Nineteenth
Century. London: Faberand Faber.
Dale, Annie (Mrs. Major John T.). Biographicalarticle in The War Cry.
New York: The SalvationArmY, 1887.
"lowa District" inThe SalvationArmy Under the
Dale, John T. (Major).
Starsand Stripes. New York: The SalvationArmy, 1887.
Douglas, Eileen. David Stoner, or The Shy Preacher. London: International Headquarters,n.d.
Duff, Mildred. This One Thing I Do. London: The SalvationArmy.
Durant, Will and Ariel. The Lessonsof History. New York: Simon and
Schuster.1968.
Ervine, St. John. God's Soldier, General William Booth, Vols' I-IILondon: William Heinemann,Ltd., 1934.
Fischer, Louis. Gandhi, His Lfe and Messagefor the World.
"Coventry's Heritage," CoventryEvening Telegraph,1957'
Fox, Levi.
Gardner,John W. Excellence.New York: Harper & Bros., 196l'
Gilliard, Alfred J. The Faith of the Salvationist. London: Salvationist
Publishingand Supplies,(194?)(year uncertain).
Gilliard, Alfred J. SussexYeoman.London: SalvationistPublishing and
Supplies,1956.
Godey'sLadies Booft. New York, 1878-1884.
Haggard,H. Rider.Regeneration,Being An Account of the Social Work oJ
The SalvationArmy in Great Britain London: LongmansGreen &
Co., 1910.
Hamilton, Merle. Redhead on Fire. London: Salvationist Publishing and
Supplies,1955.
Harpers Bazaar. New York, 1878-1884.
Hayes. History of EuroPe.
Bibliography I 169
Hebden,Derek J. WhenBishopAucklandWasa Village. BishopAuckland,
England: Cherrettand Bros., Ltd., 1914.
History of Everyday Things in England.
Huxley, Laura Archera. YouAre Not the Target.New York: Farrat Strauss
and Giroux, 1973.
James,William. The Varietiesof ReligiousExperience.New York: Mentor
Books.1958.
Joy, Edward H. The Old Corps; How We Fought in the Early Days.
London: SalvationistPublishingand Supplies,1948.
Kuyper, Abraham. The Work of the Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids, Mich.,
W.B. Eerdmans,1956.
Lewis, C.S. Miracles. New York: The MacMillan Co.,1947.
Mclelland, JosephC. The Clown and the CrocodiLe.Richmond,VA: John
Knox Press,1970.
McMillen, Dr. S. I. None of TheseDiseases.New Jersey:Fleming H.
RevellCo.
Menningeq Dr. Karl. WhateverBecame of Sin? New York: Hawthorn
B o o k s .I n c . . 1 9 7 3 .
Moyles, R. G. The Blood and Fire in Canada. Toronto: Peter Martin
Associates,1977.
Neill, A. S. Summerhil/.New York: Hart PublishingCo., 1964.
The New TestamentCommentary. Salvation Army Edition. London:
InternationalHeadquarters,1894.
Nickerson, E. E. (Captain), compiler. Highway Songs. Boston: E. E.
Nickerson,1886.
Parker,Dr. William R. and Elaine St. Iohns. Prayer Can Change YourLife.
EnglewoodCliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall,Inc., 1966.
Railton,GeorgeScott(Commissioner).TheSalvationNews(periodica|).
Philadelphia,PA: The SalvationArmy, July 10, 1880.
Railton, GeorgeScott(Commissioner).Twenty-OneYears,SalvationArmy
under the Generalship of William Booth. London: International
Headquarters,1889.
Redwood, Hugh. God in the Shadows. London: Hodder and Stoughton,
Ltd., 1932.
Redwood,Hugh. God in the Slums.London: Hodderand Stoughton,1942.
I7O i PREACHING LADIES
Reynolds, Caroline. Articles on the Coventry Corps, England, that
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The SalvationArmy.HandbookoJ'Doctrine.London:The SalvationArmy,
t936.
The Salvation Army. Holiness Reading,sfrom The War Cry. London: The
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The Salvation Army. Orders and Reg,ulations
Jbr Field Officers. London:
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The Salvation Army. Orders and RegulationsJbr Off'icersof The Salvotion
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The Salvation Army. Penny Song,Book. London: The Salvation Army,
1878-1879.
The SalvationArmy. Red PennySong Book. 1880.
SalvationArmy Music. London: The SalvationArmy, 1878.
Sandall,Robert.The History of The SalvationArmy, Vol. I, 1865-1878.
London:ThomasNelsonand Son Ltd., 1947.
Sandall, Robert. The History of The Salvation Army, Vol. II,
London:ThomasNelsonand SonsLtd., 1950.
1878-1886.
Steele,Harold C. I WasA Stranger.New York: ExpositionPress,1954.
Strahan,James.The Marec'hale.Minneapolis:BethanyFellowship,Inc.,
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Symmonds, Eliza Shirley (CommandantMrs. Philip), with Fletcher
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Symmonds,Eliza Shirley.Lettersand papersof Eliza ShirleySymmonds,
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SalvationistPublishingand Supplies,1945.
Thorn, Lockyer, and Smith. A History of England.
Tolstoy, Leo. The Kingdom of Gocl is Within lou. New York: Noonday
P r e s s .1 9 6 1 .
Trevelyn, George Macaulay.British History in the NineteenthCentury.
Van Paassen,Pierre.A Crown oJ'Fire: The Life of Savonarola.
Waldron, John D. (Commissioner),compiler. Papers concerning Eliza
Shirley Symmonds.
The War Cry,188l-1979.,Selectedissues.New York: The SalvationArmy.
Bibliography I 17l
The Wurrior Maguzine.New Xrrk: The SalvationArmy, April, 1902.
Watson. Bernard. Soldier Suint: George Sc'ottRailton, William Booth's
First Lieutenant. London: Hodder and Stoughton,1970.
Watts, Alan W. The Meaning,of'Huppiness.New York: Harper and Row,
1968.
Wilkins. Robert (Major). Unpublishedstatementabout Eliza Shirley
Symmonds.
Wisbey. Herbert A., Jr. Soldiers Without Swords: A History of The
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Sulv,ution
1956.
INDEX
"n" in
EXPI-A,NATION: The letter
this index
"footnote."
means
If more than one footnote
oppears on the page, the number of thefoot"n."
note is given after the
A
Allen, John (Eliza's grandfather), 12 n.10
Allsop, Annie (also called The Gospel
Tiumpet and Little #l),79-93;
appearanceof, 79-80; origin of
nickname, 88; prayer philosophy of,
75-77, 88-89
Asbury Park, NJ, 145-146, 149
Athletic Hall, Philadelphia, 138
Atlantic City, Nl 139
Augusta, ME, 150
Australia, S.S., 136-137
Authorities, civil (police, magistrates,
courts, mayors): attitude and actions
toward Army oi 28, 30, 34-36, 54,82,
8 ' 7 , 1 1 3 ,1 2 7 , 1 2 9 , t 3 l , 1 3 3 , 1 3 7 , 1 4 8 ,
150; treatment of Army in court oi
35-36,69, 83, 134
B
Baltimore, MD, 147
B a p t i s m ,s a c r a m e not f , 9 , 1 2 3 , 1 2 3 n
Barking,Eng.,22,59
Beck. See Pearson, Beck
Beloit. WI. 143
Bible, opinion on value of, 8, 18-19,32,
74. 89
Biddeford, ME, 150
Bilton. Jake. 143
Bishop Auckland, Eng., as chapter setting,
79-93
B l a c k b u m# 1 , E n g . , 1 4 3
B l a c k P r i n c e ,T h e , 7 1 , 7 l n . 2 7 , 7 3
Bonnets. See Uniforms
Booth, Bramwell, 21, 2l n, 23, 28, 3G33,
40. 43. 65-66
Booth. Catherine Mumford (wife of
Wiliiam Booth), l1: as author,20; birth
of, 20; children of,20 (see also names
of children); defends women preachers,
57-61; first speaksin public, 58, 58 n;
hea.lthproblems of, 19, 19 n.l; marriage
of, 20; meets William Booth, 20;
photograph of, 43; as preacher,44,52;
recommends appointment of first woman
to Christian Mission, 22; rides in
wheelchair for sake of gospel, 55 n.12;
takes interestin USA campaign,
136'1371,visits and speaks at Coventry,
15 n.16,53-66
Booth, Emma, 58
Booth, Evangeline: commends Eliza in
letter, 165
Booth, Herbert, 52, 52 n.3
Booth, Samuel and Mary (parents of
William Booth), 19, 19 n.2
Booth: William (Founder and first General
of Salvation Army): assumestitle of
General, 51, 5l n.2, 52; believesin
charity coupled with salvation, 22-23;
birth of, 19; bodyguard of,7l n.27;
children of . 20 kee also names of
children); conversion of, 19; decides on
Salvation Army as organization name,
40; defends women as officers,59;
description of, 19-23,31, 54-55; finds
"destiny," 2l; gives Eliza tentative
permission to begin USA work, 93;
health problems of, 19; involvement with
Methodists, 20; learns open-air methods
from James Caughey, 20; marriage of,
20; ministers in [,ondon, 2l; opinion of,
concerning emotional outbursts at Army
meetings, 65-66,66 n.23; parentsof, 19;
photograph of, 43; poverty and concern
for poor influence ministry of, 19-23; x
preachet (sketch), 44; puts Carrie
Reynolds in charge of Coventry, 12;
"Order
Against Starvation" to
sends
officers, 80, 8l n; sends Railton with
reinforcements to USA, 134; as
superintendentof Christian Mission, 6;
view on monetary management, 12 n.ll;
visits and speaks at Coventry, 53-66;
works for pawnbroker, 20
Boston, MA, 146, 149, 150
Bridgeport, CT, 149
Brixton, Eng., 20
Brooklyn, NY, 148
Broughton, J.H. (composer), 162-163
Brunswick, ME, 150
Buick Company, 144
Bummers. defined. 4
Burrell, Sister (Mrs.) Honor, 5, 5 n.4, 12,
2 2 . 3 3n
C
Cadman, Elijah: advertised on Coventry
posters, 36-37; appointed to Coventry
"captain"
68; calls himself
before
Salvation Army ranks are established,
39: conducts Eliza's farewell as she
leaves for USA, 93; description of 37; as
divisional commander, 142; eaily carcer
in Christian Mission, 39; gives testimony
173
I74 / PREACHINGLADIES
Cadman, Elijah (continued)
in Coventry about his life before
c o n v e r s i o n3, 7 - 3 8 tl e a r n st o r e a d ,
38 n.7l photographof, .1-5;prays over
r e i n f o r c e m e n tbso u n d f b r U S A , 1 3 6 ;
p r o v e \e n e r g ya n d i n v e n l i v r ' n e si n
s
Coventry.69; as recruiter,69-701refers
"
G
e
n
e
r
a
l
,
"
t o W i l l i a m B o o t ha s
5l n.2;
reports on Army to Christittn Mi.ssion
magazine3
, 9 ; s e n t e n c e tdo p r i s o n .6 9
C a l u m e t ,M I ( a l s oc a l l e dR e d J a c k e t ) ,
t43-t44
Canada.See London, Ontario
C a r d i f f # 1 , W a l e s ,1 4 2
C a u g h e yJ, a m e s .2 0 . 1 4 5n . l
Chicago Cubs baseballteam, 144
C h i c a g o ,I L , 1 4 3
Christiun Mission magazine. See
Periodicals,Army
Christian Mission, The (later called The
S a l v a t i o nA r m y ) : b e g i n n i n g so f , 2 l ;
difTicultiesin Derby and Leicesterof, l2;
evangelistsof, 22; food shop in London
of, l2l mentionedin song, 5; purposeof,
32; renamed,40, 5l; sendsout first
22;
woman as supervisor-evangelist,
superintendentof, 6. See rr1.roSalvation
Army. The
Christmaswork. See Lamplighter Brigade;
Social welfare
Churches(other than SalvationArmy):
Episcopal. l9; Methodist Conference,
201 Methodist New Connection,201
m i s c e l l a n e o ucsh u r c hn a m e s ,l 5 l l
P r i m i t i v eM e t h o d i s t ,8 ; Q u a k e r s ,2 l ;
view of Army by other churches,127,
l 2 9 l W e s l e y a n 1, 9
C l i n t o n ,l A , l 5 l
Clothing. See Uniforms
C o l e m a n ,M a r y A n n , 1 3 5 , I 3 8
C o l o r a d oD i v i s i o n . 1 4 3
C o m m u n i o n ,s a c r a m e not l 1 0 9 , 1 2 3 , 1 2 3n
C o n g r e s si:n H u l l , 1 4 2 ;i n L o n d o n ,
1 4 n . 1 5 ,5 l - 5 3
Copper Country Reunion, 144
C o u n c i l B l u f f . s .I A , 1 5 l
Courtship of Army officers. See Orders
and Regulations
Coventry. Eng. (city): importanceof silk
weaving to, 42; is location of several
book chapters,3-18,25-41, 5l-"11
Covehtry Citadel Corps (35th corps opened
i n E n g l a n d :a l s o c a l l e dS a l v a t i o n
Factory): activity reportsof in Christian
M i s s i o nM a g a z i n a ,5 n . 3 , 5 n . 4 ,
1 4n . 1 5 , 3 n
3 , 3 5n , 4 l n . 1 2 , 5 5
n.13.
5 7 n , 6 2 n . 2 l ; F r e e t hS t . b u i l d i n go f .
d e s c r i b e d5, 5 , 5 - 5n . l 3 : n a r n e do f f i c i a l l y
b y A r m y , 5 3 1w e l c o m e sE l i z a a n d A n n i e
back to Coventry. 142. See clsa F-actory.
coach
Coventry Fair 53, 53 n.8
D
Dale, John T. "Happy Jack" (Annie
S h i r l e y ' ss e c o n dh u s b a n d ) l,5 l
D a n c i n gi n A r m y g a t h e r i n g s3, 3 , 6 6
D a n v i l l e ,[ L , 1 4 3
D a r w e l l ,M e g . 7 9 - 8 0 ,8 6
Davis, Annie, 22. 59
D e r b y ,E n g . , 1 2 . 1 4 5
D e s M o i n e s ,I A , 1 4 3 .1 5 l
Detroit,Ml, 144
D o c k e r ,J i m m y , 4 , 6 , 1 4 - 1 5 ,1 4 n . 1 5 , 2 6 ,
55.103
Docker. Mrs. Katie (Katharine)(cousin of
B e c k ) ,3 , 5 . 1 5
D o u g h n u tg i r l , 1 4 3
Dover, NH, 150
Drumhead. Se., Penitent-form
Drunkards' brigades,22
E
Elgin. IL. 143
F
Factory (first home of Coventry Corps;
former dancing saloon and factory). Se?
Factory, Salvation
Factory,chair (site of first Army work in
Philadelphia;also called Salvation
Factory after the SalvationFactory in
Coventry; later called Philadelphia#l
Corps): descriptionof, 125, 140; location
of, 107-1081
opening date of fbr Army
meetings, ll0; painting of, .19;receives
donation for benches,lll; rental price of,
109. See a/so Philadelphia#l Corps.
Factory,coach (secondhome of Coventry
Corps, locatedon FreethSt.l continued
to be called SalvationFactory,although
official name was #35 Corps): 55,
5 5 n .1 3
Factory,Salvation(first home of Christian
Mission in Coventry: NOTE: first Army
hall in Philadelphiaalso took this name):
location in Coventry of. ll: poster
advertisementof. J; War Congressreport
"Factory,
chair" for
at, 5l-53. See
SalvationFactory in Philadelphia
IndexI 175
Fall River, MA, 150
FederhenHall (Boston, MA), 149
!-emale Ministry, by Catherine Booth,
6l n.19
Fiddler Josh, 12
Fights at Army gatherings,'l-8, 22, 34,
3 9 , 8 2 - 8 3 , 9 0 , 1 2 9 - 1 3 01, 3 3 , 1 4 9 - 1 5 0
F i n a n c e si n A r m y , 1 2 n . l l , 1 2 n . 1 2 , 1 3 , 1 6 ,
59, 80, 80 n.l
Five-saloonComer, Philadelphia,ll2-113,
tzt, t26
Flag,Salvation
Army,6l-62,82, 136,172
Flame Madsen, 92-93
Flint, MI, lz14
Food depots, 12, 22
Food for the Millions program, 6 n, 2l n
Form (bench for seating congregation at
m e e t i n g s )1
, 3 , 1 3 n . 1 3 , 1 6 n . S e ea l s o
Penitent-form (prayer bench, not for
sitting)
Free-and-easy
meeting, definition of, ll n
Funeralservicesin Army, 68 n.25
G
Gaol, Warwick (prison), 38, 69
Germantown,PA (city), 139
GermantownRoad (streetin Philadelphia),
n4, t25
Gipsy Smith, 39, 39 n.9
Glory girls, 70, 79
Gospel Trumpet, The. See Allsop, Annie
Great Falls, NH, 150
H
Hackney,Eng., 39
Hallelujahs. .lea Women preachers
HammersmithE
, ng., 135
Handkerchiefwaving, 34, 59
"Happy
Eliza." Saa Haynes, Eliza
Hanow, Sam. 26-27, 67-68
Harry Hill's Theater(New York City), 137
H a y n e s ,E l i z a ( " H a p p y E l i z a " ) , 4 6 , 7 0 ,
70 n.26
Hood, Dr. JosephR., 139-l4l
Hull, Eng., 142
I
Instruments..9eeMusical Instruments.
Iowa (state). l5l. See also city namesin
Iowa
I r o n s , B r o t h e r ,5 5 , 6 7
J
Jamestown.ND, 143
Jerseys. Sae Uniforms
K
KansasDivision, 143
Kenosha,WI, 143
Kentucky (state), l5l
Keokuk, IA, 151
Knee drills (prayer meetings),52
L
Lamplighter Brigade, The (Army
Christmascarolers),68
Lawrence, MA, 145, 149
Leamington, Eng., 142
L e e d s .E n g . . 6 6
L e i c e s t e rE. n g . . 1 2 . 2 8 . 7 l
Lewiston, ME, 150
Liverpool, Eng., 14l
London, Eng., 12, 5l-52, l4l: East End in,
21, 52, 108, 142; Mile End Wastein,
6 n; West End in, ll; WhitechapelHall
in, 136
London Corps (London, Ontario, Canada),
t45, t47-149
Londonderry.Ireland. 143
L o v e f e a s t ,2 6 , 2 6 n . 1 , 5 4 , 1 2 5 - 1 2 6 ,l 4 l .
See also Communion
M
Maine Division, Massachusetts
and, 143,
15l
Manchester,Eng., 142
Mankato, MN, 143
Maquoketa, IA, 15l
Marriage of Army officers. See Orders and
Regulations
Marshalltown, IA, l5l
Matlock, Eng., 142
Military terminology adopted by Salvation
Army, 5l-53
M i l w a u k e e ,W I , 1 4 3
M i n n e a p o l i s# 1 , M N , 1 4 3
Minnesota Division, 143
Moore, Major (commander of Army forces
i n N o r t h A m e r i c a ) .1 4 6 - l 5 L
Morris, Emma, 135
Musical instrumentsused by Army: brass
instrumenta
s n d b a n d s ,5 2 , 5 2 n . 4 , 5 6 ,
132,142; concertinas,5, 14, 30, 52, 87,
ll2, 132-133,143;drums, 5, 14, 132,
150; g,iitar. 2 ,1. ?4, 81, 132, 1431'
miscellaneousother instruments,5, 52,
8 7 . l t 2 . 1 4 3 . 1 5 0 :s t r i n g e di n s r r u m e n t s
and bands, 30, 521 tambourines(also
c a l l e dt i m b r e l s ) .5 , 1 4 - 1 5 ,3 4 , 5 2 n . 4 ,
132.r50
176/ PREACHINGLADIES
N
New Bamett, Eng., 143
New Bedford, MA, 150
Newburyport, MA, 150
New Hampshire Division, 143
New York City, 137-138
North Shields, Eng., 135
Nottingham, Eng., 19, 68, 70, 135
o
Open-air meetings: ban against singing at,
691convens neededto panicipate in.
125; dancing in, 33; fire attracts first
crowds to, in Philadelphia,114-l15;first
site of, in Philadelphia, 112; forbidden by
New York City ordinance, 137; held by
Railton on shipboard, 137; held in
conjunction with indoor meetings, 22;
legality of, 35-36; origin of, 2l; pictured
in sketch of marchers, 121; at Pool
Meadow Coventry, 28, 33; restricted by
Philadelphia mayor, 113-114.See also
Fights
Orders and Regulations of Salvation Army,
53-54, 132
P
Passive resistance ("fers") in Army
p h i l o s o p h y8, , 2 8 , 8 7 , 8 7 n . 2
Pasty, Cornish (meat patty), 85, 92, ll0,
144, 156-157
Paterson, Nl 42, 87, 145
Peabody, MA, 150
Pearson, Beck (Elizabeth, Becky):
appointed to USA, 135; conversion of,
25; description of, 4: first sings at
meeting, 27; goes to Nottingham as
corps helper,68; has parental permission
to become soldier. 54: lists women
coming to USA, 135; writes Eliza from
Nottingham, 70, 135
Pearson,William, 53 n.10, 145, 145 n.l
Peg Poll, 90-92, lO3
Penitent-form: is drumhead in open-air
meetings5
, , 2 ' 7 , 1 2 9 , 1 3 2 ;s c e n e sa t , i n
sketches,27, 79, 105; usesof, 14 n.14,
28,65,73,82, 85, 93, lt6,147,149
Pennsylvania Division, Western, 143, l5l
Penny Songbooks, 93, 138
Periodicals, Army: Christian Mission
Magazine, reports quoted from, 8 n.5,
1 4 n . 1 5 ,3 3 n . 4 , 3 5 n . 5 , 4 l n , 5 2 n . 6 ,
55 n.13, 57 n,62 n.2l; Salvationist,82;
Salvation News, 164 n; War Cry, 52,
52 n.6, 135, 145-16, 164; White-winged
Messenger, 52, 52 n.6
Persecution of Salvationists: See
Authorities, civil; Churches, view of
Army byl Fights: Open-air meetings:
Publicans; Weapons; Women preachers,
debate over
Philadelphia, PA (city): is center for silk
making, 42, 8'7, 92; mentioned by
General Booth as USA city where Army
began, 136; is scene of Shirleys' first
evangelisticwork in USA, 105-116,
121-138;welcomes Railton's party,
137-138
Philadelphia #l Corps, PA (former chair
factory; first called Salvation Factory
after Salvation Factory in Coventry):
commanded by Amos and Annie Shirley,
131; has Eliza Shirley Symmonds and
her husband as commanding officers,
143; name given to, 131; proclaimed first
corps in USA, 138; receives official
"Factory,
Army flag, 138. See a/so
chair" for earlier activities of #1
Philadelphia #2 Corps, PA: commanded
by Eliza, 139; proclaimed one of first
corps in USA, 138; receivesflag, 138;
rental of, 131
Pittsfield, MA, 150
Placard(s). See Poster(s)
Police. See Authorities, civil
Portland. ME. 150
Poster(s) (also called placards, bills) and
other printed Army advertisements:
advertises Army meetings in Coventry
( 3 , 3 7 , 5 4 , 7 0 ) , i n N o t t i n g h a m( 7 0 ) , i n
(50. ll0. l3l). in
Philadelphia
Scarborough (142); carried into meeting,
14; contain religious slogans, 5;
photographs oi 45, 50; used as military
challenge by Elijah Cadman, 45
hayer: methods and philosophy of,75-77,
88-89, 106; notable examples of, by
Annie Allsop (81, 84-85, 90), by Elijah
Cadman (136), by Carrie Reynolds (6),
by Shirleys (105-106, lll, 128). See also
Knee drills
Preaching ladies. See Women preachers
Press coverage of Army activities: in
Asbury Park, NJ, 145-146;in Baltimore,
147; in Boston, 149-150;in Covenrry, 58,
65, 69; in Des Moines, IA, l5l; in
London, Ontario, 148-149;in New York
city, 137; in Philadelphia, 125-128,
130-l3l
Price. Clara. 135
Promoted to Glory (Army term defined),
68 n.25
Index / 177
Providence, RI, 150
Publicans (saloon owners): attend Army
meetings, 87; definition of, 26, 26 n.2:
opposition to Christian Mission and
Salvation Army from, 35, 69, 130, 132,
134
Quincy, MA, 150
o
i
Racine. WI, 143
Railton, George Scott: admires Shirley
family, 139; appointed to USA, 134-135:
with Christian Mission, 40; description
of, 137; edits Salvation News, 164; finds
opposition in New York City, 137; health
of, 137; introduced in Philadelphia, 138;
praised by Eliza, 139; speaks at
Coventry, 56, 56 n.15; rrains
reinforcements for USA on shipboard,
136; writes to Booth about Eliza's ill
health. 139
Ranks for Salvation Army officers, as first
conceived,5l-53, 51 n.2
Red Jacket. See Calumet, MI
Reddy, 115-135;asks how to be saved,115;
conversion oi 116; gets job at silk mill,
126; hung from tree, 129-130;invited to
Shirley home, 123; sketch of, 103; tells
of background before conversion,
123-124; testifies conceming his
conversion.116. l2l-122
Rest Home, Army, 142
Reynolds, Sister (Mrs.) Carrie (Caroline):
claims to be first Army "captain,"
62 n.2l; descriptionoi 5; financial
status of, 12 n.12; first refened to as
"captain,"
51; goes before Coventry
court, 35; is in command of Cbristian
Mission at Coventry,5 n.4,'7, 12; is one
of "cloud of women sent flying over
England," 22,59; is part of "Female
Band" of Christian Mission, 5 n.3;
rninistry in Nottingham of, 70; preaches
in Coventry meeting, 16; reports for
Christian Mission magazine ol 33 n,
35 n, 4l n; reports to Coventry converts
on fint War Congress, 5l-53; sent to
Nottingham, 70
Rooster Beecham, 82, 84, 90
Roughs, defrned, 4
,s
Sabbathkeeping,94, ll4, 124
Saco.ME. 150
Sacraments. Jea Baptism; Communion
S a l i s b u r yE
, ng.,52 n.4, 135
Salt Lake City, UT, 143
Salvation Army, The (earlier known as The
Christian Mission): attitudes and actions
of civil authorities toward /see
Authorities, civil); attracts all types and
c l a s s e so f p e o p l e , 2 l , 2 8 , 5 2 , 1 4 0 1 .
Christmas work of (see Lamplighter
Brigade; Social welfare); compares itself
1o rescuer of drowning, 64-65; finances
of (see Finances); flag of (see Flag);
length of officer appointments in, 139 n;
military terminology required by, 5l-53;
musical instruments in (see Musical
instruments); name mentioned in early
poster of, 37; obedience, discipline, and
activity required of members of, 63,
73-74; orders and regulations of (see
Orders and Regulations); origin of name
of, 39-40; periodicals of (see
Periodicals); press coverageof (see hess
coverage);purposeof, 53, 58, 62,124;
ranks in (see Ranks); and sacraments
(see Baptism; Communion); songs of
(see Songs); statistics of (see Statistics);
uniforms and clothing of (see Uniforms);
view of other churches toward (see
Churches); weapons used against (sea
Fights; Weapons); women in (see
Women preachers);See also Christian
Mission, The
Salvation Factory. See Factory, Salvation
Salvation News. See Periodica.ls. Armv
Salvationist. See Periodicals, Army
Scarborough,Eng.,142
Scripture. Saa Bible
Seating on Army platforms, 109, 109 n
Shaw, Annie, 135
Shirley, Amos (father of Etiza): appearsin
Philadelphia court, 134; becomes soldier
in Salvation Army, 70; birth ol 152,
burial of, in Asbury Park, NJ (146) and
later in Kensico, NY (152); commands
Philadelphia#l Corps. l3l;
commissioned as captain, 138;
descriptionof, l0; drowning of,145,149,
150, 152; fired from job, 130; funeral of,
145-1461.hired as foreman of
Philadelphia silk mill, 92; home address
of, in Philadelphia, 127; jailed in
Philadelphia, 133; pays court fine of
Sister Reynolds, 36; pays for beginning
of Philadelphia minisrry 107; photograph
of, 96; plays concertina, ll2,133;
praised in funeral report, 146; preaching
I78 / PREACHINGLADIES
Shirley, Amos (continued)
of, 9-10; promoted to Glory 143; serves
in Lawrence Corps, 145; serves in
PatersonCorps, 145; as silk weaver, l0;
song composed by, 164, 164 n; trained in
lay Christian leadership, 145; writes
Eliza about moving to USA, 87-88;
writes Eliza from Philadelphia that Army
work needed in USA, 92
Shirley, Mrs. (Amos' mother), 12 n.lO
Shirley, Annie Allen (Eliza's mother)(later
becameMrs. John Dale): accompanies
Eliza to England for restoration of
Eliza's health. l4l: admits she
disregarded call to Christian sewice,72;
appears in Philadelphia court, 134;
appointed divisional commander, 149,
149 n.l; asks Major Moore for
assignmentafter Amos'death, 146, 149;
becomes soldier in Salvation Army, 70;
birthplace of, 42; commissioned as
captain, 138; decides to become full+ime
Army volunteer, 107; description of,
9-10, 128; as divisional leader,143; goes
to England for rest she needs, 149; jailed
in Philadelphia, 133; marries John Dale,
l5l; opens fire in Bridgeport, CT, 149;
opens Boston Corps, 149; photographs
of, 50, 96; praised for abilities, l4'7, 151;
promotedto Glory, 151-152;put in
chargeof Philadelphia#l Corps, l3l;
put in charge of Philadelphia #2 Corps,
147; remains loyal to Booth during
Moore's secession,146, 150; returnsto
USA, 142; serves in London, Ontario.
145,147-t49
Shirley, Eliza (also called "Lizzie";later
became Mrs. Philip Symmonds): appears
in Philadelphia court, 134; appointed to
many corps in USA, 143-lM; becomes
soldier in Salvation Army, 70; begins to
doubt her relationshipwith God, 88-89;
birth ol 152; burial of, 152; children of,
97 (group photol-Annie Alma (98-99,
152), Daisy Katherine(98-99, 143-144,
155), Ethel (155), EvangelineE. (98,
143, 155), Gertrude Sarah (98, 100-101,
143, 154), Ruby (98, 143, 155), Shirley
Philip r98. 100.l4l. l54F;
commissioned as leftenant and appointed
to Bishop Auckland, 74; convictedof
sin, 8-9, 16-l'1, 25; decides for Christ,
18, 7l; dedicatedin church as infant. 9.
12; defends Katie Docker in open-air, 7;
description of, 4, 9, 128; firecracker
thrown under skirt ol 129; first sings in
meeting, 27; first speaksin open-air, 26;
given childhood blessing as future
preacher, 12 n.10; has consent of parents
to become officer. 73: has hints of her
"destiny,"
8, 14, 34; has physical
breakdown and goes to England for rest,
139, l4l; has variety of corps
appointments in England, 142-143;
interviewed by General Booth, 73; jailed
in Philadelphia, 133; leaves command of
Philadelphia #l to open #2, l3l;
marries Philip Symmonds, 142, 152; as
musician and singer, 26-28, 34, 87,98,
ll2, 1431'outlines plans for Army in
Philadelphia to first converts, 124-125;
photographs of, vi. 50, 97, 98; praised
by Methodist minister, 139-l4l; praised
for oratory, 144; promoted to captain,
134, 138; promoted to Glory, 143-144,
152; rebuked by General Booth for her
pnde, 142; receives letter from
Evangeline Booth just before her death,
165; retums to USA with husband,143;
sees first open-air meeting, 5-8; sermon
"How
to Be a Hero" by, l17-119;
sermon "How to Conquer Depression"
by, 158-161;songs by, 162-163;struggles
with dedicatingher will to God, 67,
70-71; summonedby General, 7l; is
territorial evangelist for Central Territory,
USA, 143; turns down marriage
proposal, l3l-132; writes to General
Booth about starting Army work in
USA, 92; writes to General Booth for
reinforcements. 130. 135
Singing. See Songs and Singing in
Salvation Army
"Slain"
in the Lord (or slain in the Spirit),
85-86
Social-welfareprogram of Christian
Mission and Salvation Army: 22-23, 68,
125, 128, 141
Songs and singing in Salvation Army:
Army's "official" song, 53, 53 n.l0;
lining out of words, 15; titles and words
of songssung by Salvationists,5, 15,
22,26-27,345
, 1 ,5 l n . l , 5 3 , 5 3 n . 1 0 ,
5 6 - 5 7 ,6 5 , 7 o - ' l r , 8 6 - 8 7 , 8 7n . 3 , 9 3 ,
lll-112, l15, 122, 124, 128, r32-r34,
144-146, 149,162-164; tunes taken from
secularmusic for, 52 n.5, 126;
songbooks (see Penny Songbooks);
songsterbrigades,52
Soup, soap, and salvation. ,SeeSocial
welfare
Spennymoor, Eng., 135
Index I 179
Statistics, miscellaneous Army: 61,
6 1 n . 2 0 , 1 3 8n .
Stevenson, Hal (newspaper reporter):
127-128. 130-132. 134
Stoke Newington, Eng., 135
Sullivan, Justice, 133
Symmonds, Philip (Eliza's husband): vi,
9'7. 142-143. 152
T
Thunton,MA, 143,I50
TheatreRoyal(Coventry,Eng.), 3, 12-13,
28, 37
Timbrels.Jee Musicalinstruments:
tambourines
Trophy(ies)
of Grace,54, 54 n, 57 n,
tl
n.zt
Tirrrible Tlrnip Tircker: brings food and
fumiture to Annie and Eliza, 84;
convicted of sin, 83-84, 86; description
of, 82; gives first conversion testimony,
86; mentioned on prayer slip of paper,
80; at penitent-form, 85; sketch of, 103;
"slain"
in the Lord, 85-86
U
Uniformsandclothingof membersof
ChristianMissionand SalvationArmy:
3 , 3 n , 5 , 1 4 , 2 9 ,5 2 , 5 5 - 5 68, 7 , t 0 8 ,
136
w
War Cry. See Periodicals, Army
Warwick, Eng., 38, 69
Weapons used against, and food objects
thrown at, early Salvationists by their
e n e m i e s6
: , 34,39, 57, 82,90, ll3,
122, 129,133, l5l. See also Fights
Westbrook,Emma. 135-136.138
Westfield, MA, 150
West Hortlepool , Eng., 142
Weymouth, MA, 150
Whitby.Eng.. 39. 63-U
Whitechapel. See London
While-Winged Messenger.See Periodicals,
Army
Whitsun Fair. 53. 53 n.9
Women preachers (also called Hallelujahs,
Glory girls): advertised on postet 3;
"Glory
girls," 70, ?9; called
called
"Hallelujah
Females"and "Hallelujah
Lassies" in Philadelphia,ll0, 125-126;
Christian Mission appoints first woman
as, 22; debateover whether women
preachers are proper and scnptural Qtro:
|, 12, 41, 5'1-61,106-107,132, t4t, t48;
c o n : 3 , 1 O ,1 5 - 1 6 ,1 8 , 2 8 , f 6 , 4 1 , 7 2 ,
83, 108, ll3, 148); Eliza describedas
epitome of, 124,1261-discussedin
Female Ministry, 61 n.19; identified with
Christian Mission, 5, 14; known as
"Female
Band" of Christian Mission. 5:
proportion of, as officers in 1879,
61 n.20; referred to as "cloud of women
sent flying over England," 22, 59; sent
"Hallelujah
as
Lassies" by General
Booth to USA, 134. 136:shown in
sketch. 5l
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一ギ≡電 一．
"And it shall come to pass that before
they call I will answer, and while they
are speakingI will hear."
-lsaiah 65:24.
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