Rensselaer Gazette, Volume 3, Number 50, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 4 April 1860 — A Miraculous Water Cure. [ARTICLE]

A Miraculous Water Cure.

[From the Sandusky Register,

A correspondent from Vermillion funishes us with the particulars of a miracle which he says occurred near that place a short time since. It may be true, but it sounds like a spiritual romance: “A little over four years ago a Blacksmith living at Cherry-Tree Corners, about four miles from Vermillion, was severely kicked by a while shoeing the animal. Since that time and until very recently the man has been unable to walk a step or leave his chair without assistance. About two months since the blacksmith, whose name is Willard, had a dream or vision, directing him to be baptised by immersion at a certain time and place designated, if he desired to be cured of his malady. Mr. Willard stated the circumstance to his family and neighbors, declaring his determination to strictly comply with the requirements of his vision. He expressed the utmost confidence (n his restoration. The affair created a considerable excitement in the neighborhood*, and became the principal topic of conversation for ;g’les around. On the appointed day, the 22d ult, several hundred people gathered at a point on Chappel Creek, where the ceremony was to take place. Mr. Willard arrived punctual to the hour and was taken from his carriage to the bank of the stream. Two clergymen were present, but both refused to officiate, having no confidence in the so-called vision of the blacksmith. Two acquaintances of Mr. Willaffl expressed their willingness to assiit in the solemn rite, and taking the sick man in their arms they walked into the water. He was immersed after the usuel menner, and when lie arose to his feet he cried out in a loud voice: “Glory to God! I told you so! I told you it would cure me. All that was required was-faith!” &,c. Mr. Willard then walked unattended from the water, and received the hearty congratulations of the mulitude who crowded around him. He walked to his carriage with ease and elasticity, and to all appearances his lameness has entirely vanished.