Rensselaer Republican, Volume 21, Number 50, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 15 August 1889 — Why Dr. Hawkes Declined. [ARTICLE]

Why Dr. Hawkes Declined.

North Carolina probably never produced, says the Washington Post, an abler preacher than Dr. Francis L. Hawkes, who a quarter of a century ago was pastor of Grace Episcopal church, New York. Short, thick-set, swarthy, black-eyed, and black-haired, he was a striking personage, He was not only a great pulpit orator, but considered the best reader in the New York episcopacy. His rather luxurious family deterred him from accepting a bishopric, which would have bee* otherwise tendered. One day a delegation from a Buffalo church waited upon and invited him to accept.a pastorate in that city. “Well, gentlemen, other things being satisfactory, the question of acceptance narrows down to a business matter,” said Dr. Hawkes. “What salary do you offer?” “Dr. Hawkes,” said the spokesman, “we recognize that you have a high reputation and are willing to be liberal. Our recent pastor has received $2,500, but on account of your standing we have decided to offer you $3,500.” “My good man,” cried the doctor, gasping, “do you know what salary I am receiving here?” “No, sir.” ‘•I get $15,000 and this parsonage, and as I have an expensive family I do not see my way clear to accept your offer.” ' • —— The spokesman looked rather Sheepish, but made another essay, “If we had known that fact, sir, we would undoubtedly have looked elsewhere; but you should remember that the work of the Lord must be done, and as for providing for your family, you know the story of the ravens.” ‘•Now, my friends,” responded the clergyman, quizzically, “I have made the bible my study ever since I was 28. I have read it through carefully and prayerfully over a hundred times. I I remember the raven incident perfectly, but nowhere can I find, any reference to the Lord’s providing for young Hawkes.”