Chapter III: Part 3

At one time some very gay young women called on her, desiring to have their fortunes told. Her Testament lay on the table, which she had but a short time before been reading, and pointing to it, she said--_That book_, _and that only_, _will tell your fortunes_; _for it is God's book_; _it is his own word_. She reproved them for their sin, and said, the Bible had told her, _all unrighteousness is sin_. They then requested she would not tell any one that they had called upon her. She replied--_Oh_! _you fear man more than God_!

A few days since, this reformed woman was sweeping the pavement in front of her house, when two female servants came up, enquiring for the house of the fortune-teller; mourning over them for their folly, she said--_My dears_, _she cannot tell your fortunes_. _I have been a professed fortune-teller_, _and have deceived hundreds_. She succeeded in persuading them to go home.

At a meeting of Gipsies held at a gentleman's house, Jan. 1830, the youngest child of this woman said to her mother, _Mammy_, _who be all these folks_? The mother replied, _They are Gipsies_. _Was_ I _ever like 'em_? asked the child. _Yes_, said the mother, _you was once a poor little Gipsy without stockings and shoes_, _and glad to beg a halfpenny of any body_. It is a circumstance not to be lamented, that the condition even of a little child, has been so much bettered by the exertions of the Committee.

In addition to the encouragement afforded us by this woman, giving up with so much decision the practice of fortune-telling, the author must not forget to mention an instance of her forbearance of temper under provocation and outrage. She had, when a vagrant, a quarrel with some of her ignorant people of another tribe. Meeting with them after her reformation, she was severely beaten by them, and had her ear-drops torn from her ears, while they contemptuously called her _Methodist_. When asked, why she did not bring her persecutors to justice, she replied, _How can I be forgiven_, _if I do not forgive_? _That is what my Testament tells me_.

The young widow we have before mentioned, continued to tell fortunes for some time after we had taken her children; but it pleased the Holy Spirit to awaken her conscience, and to shew her the wickedness of such crimes, by which she was led to true repentance and reformation of character.

After the death of both the children of this interesting individual, she went into the service of a kind and pious lady in London. For this situation she was prepared by one of equal benevolence in Southampton, who had her for some time in her own house for that purpose. She continued in this situation till the lady's death, and has since been in other service, where she has conducted herself so well as to prove she is become a sincere servant of Christ.

CHAP. X. Some Remarks on the Sin of Fortune-telling.

The author will be pardoned, he is willing to hope, by the kind reader, if he digress in one or two paragraphs in this part of his work, purposely to expose the great wickedness of prognostication and fortune-telling; as the whole is not only unsound, foolish, absurd and false, but is most peremptorily forbidden in the Scriptures.

In the law of Moses it is commanded, that there should not be found among the people, any that used divination, or that was an observer of the times, or that was an enchanter: Deut. xiii. 10. In the prophecies of Malachi, the Lord has declared--_Thou shalt have no more soothsayers_: Mal. v. 12. Balaam and Balak were cursed of the Lord of Hosts; the former for using enchantments, and the latter for employing Balaam in this wicked work. _Woe to them that devise iniquity_: Micah, ii. 1. Those who employ unhappy Gipsy women, should think on the portion of the liar; Rev. xxi. 8: for the person who tempts another to utter falsehood by offering rewards, is equally guilty before God. _A companion of fools shall be destroyed_: Prov. xiii. 20. _Though hand join in hand_, in sin, _the wicked shall not go unpunished_: Prov. xvi. 5. _The destruction of the transgressors and the sinners shall be together_: Isai. i. 28. It may be safely affirmed that the sin of those persons, who trifle with Gipsy women in having their fortunes told by them, nearly resembles that of the first king of Israel; who, by consulting, in his trouble, a wicked woman, who pretended to supernatural power, filled up the measure of those sins, by which he lost the protection of heaven, his crown, and his life, and by which he involved his family in the most ruinous calamity.

Reader, have you encouraged any of these people in such crimes? If you have so far forgotten yourselves, the commands of God, and the curse that awaits you and those who deceive themselves the same way; reflect, before it be too late, on the evil into which you have willingly, wilfully, and without the least reasonable excuse, fallen, and on the guilt that must of necessity attach to your consciences thereby. Should you never meet those you encouraged to sin in this world, and therefore never have an opportunity of warning them of their danger, yet must you meet at the bar of Christ; and if then loaded with the weight of the sin in question, how awful will be your condition! Yourself and a fellow creature turned out for ever from God, and heaven, and hope! You may find mercy _now_, if you, by faith in the Redeemer, _seek for it_; and who can tell but if you sincerely pray for those you led into sin, but that the mercy of which you part take, may find out them! May it even be so, to your everlasting comfort!

Some have supposed that this contemptible practice was first introduced into Europe by the Gipsies: but such persons are greatly mistaken. In the dark ages of superstition, in which this wandering people came to our part of the world, prognostication and fortune-telling were carried on to an infinite extent; and so enraged were the deceivers of those days against the Gipsies, that they proclaimed they knew nothing of the _art_; that they were deceivers and impostors.

It were well if the Gipsies were _now_ the only persons addicted to such wickedness; but this is not the case; for it is well known that almost every town is cursed with an astrological, magical, or slight-of-hand fortune-teller. There are two now in Southampton; and their wretched abodes are visited not only by vain and ignorant servants, but often by those who belong to the higher circles, and not unfrequently by those who drive their carriages.

To conclude this chapter, it may be safely said, that the sort of wickedness in question, is not only forbidden in the Scriptures, and will add much to the guilt of an impenitent death; but that it is calculated to give us the most airy anticipations, or oppress us with the most unreasonable despair. _Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof_; why should we then afflict ourselves about ill-fortune in future years? If we _seek_, as the first great object of life, _the kingdom of heaven_, _all _[necessary] _things shall be added_. And why should we deceive ourselves with gay and splendid expectations? _Riches make themselves wings and soon fly away_.

CHAP. XI. Plans suggested to the pious and benevolent for promoting a Reformation among the Gipsies.

As no event happens without a cause, so no good is accomplished without means. It is in the power of man as an instrument, frequently to make his fellow-creatures either happy or miserable. And it may safely be asserted, that much of the ignorance, depravity, and consequent misery found in the world, are occasioned by the want of a united and persevering application of the energies of Christians, to the reformation of the most debased classes of Society. This backwardness to perform that which is good, with respect to our fellow men, must be accounted for, by the want of faith in God's word, and the little influence we allow the religion of the Saviour to have on our own hearts. It may also be occasioned by the strong evidences we have of the corruption of human nature, and the little good we see attend the labours of others: and we are often likewise discouraged because our own efforts fail. On these accounts, how often do we sigh for opportunities of doing good, whilst we neglect the openings of Providence in little things, which would frequently lead to the accomplishment of most important usefulness. Dr Johnson used to say, "He who waits to do a great deal of good at once, will never do any." Good is done by degrees. However small in proportion the benefit which follows _individual attempts_ to do good, a great deal may thus be accomplished by perseverance, even in the midst of discouragements and disappointments. The first missionaries who visited England, had to contend with all the frightful cruelties of savage life, and the more horrid rites of Druidical worship. But now, though much wickedness abounds in England, it is, in a religious point of view, the paradise of the earth. May all those who wish to diffuse the genuine influences of Christianity among the poor Gipsies, imitate the example of the adorable Saviour, who _made himself of no reputation_, that he might enlighten the most ignorant, and impart happiness to the most miserable.

It will not be denied that the Gipsies are capable of feeling the influence, and appreciating the worth of the Gospel: and no one will doubt that the earlier the plans are adopted for their improvement, the sooner will this desirable work be accomplished.

The reader is requested to pay particular attention to the following suggestions.

The establishment of an Institution to supply instruction to the Gipsies by regular Ministers, or Missionaries, would be of but little use. Indeed such a measure could scarcely be carried into effect. For the Gipsies, beside associating in very small companies, are perpetually driven from place to place. To supply them, therefore, with regular instruction, a preacher would be necessary to every family; who would condescend to their mode of life, travel when they travelled, rest when they rested, and be content with the ground and straw for his bed, and a blanket tent for his covering! All this would subject them to great personal inconvenience, and at the same time be very expensive and highly improper. Neither would it be possible for ministers to be appointed occasionally and alternately to visit the Gipsies in different counties. For it might often happen that, before intelligence could be forwarded to those appointed to give them instruction, they might be removed by a peace officer, or have set out on a journey of several miles distance. Benevolent, zealous, and prudent persons may do much by visiting the camps near towns; and the most suitable parts of the day for promoting this object, are morning and evening. But the most simple and easy plans of instruction should invariably be adopted.

To those persons who are afraid of visiting the Gipsies, lest they should be insulted, abused, and robbed, the author may be allowed to say that they have not the least grounds for such fears. In Scotland this fear is quite as general among the religious people as it is in England; and in that country the inhabitants are even afraid to prosecute them for their depredations and crimes. In England ladies are frequently known to visit their camps singly, when more than a mile from towns, and to sit and read and converse with them for a considerable time, with the greatest confidence and safety.

There is not the least prospect of doing them good, by forcing instruction upon them. About the year 1748, the Empress Theresa attempted the improvement of the Gipsies in Germany, by taking away, by force, all their children of a certain age, in order to educate and protect them; but such an unnatural and arbitrary mode of benevolence, defeated its own object; and this is not to be wondered at: the souls of the free resist every effort of compulsion, whether the object be good or bad. Compulsatory instruction, therefore, would do no good among the Gipsies. But they are easily won by kindness, and whoever wishes really to benefit them, must convince them that this is his intention, by patiently bearing with the unpleasing parts of their characters, and by a willingness to lessen their distresses so far as it is in his power. Such kindness will never be lost upon them. Nor would the author recommend their being encouraged to live in Towns, except they are truly desirous of leading a new life, as it is almost certain that their morals would be greatly corrupted thereby: and they would be capable of more extensive injury to society, should they take to their wandering habits again.

A correspondent of a friend of the author, has just communicated the following particulars, which prove the truth of the above remarks.

There is in the neighbourhood of Harz, at Nordausen, a colony of Gipsies, to whom a Missionary has been sent from Berlin. His last letter speaks very favourably of their disposition to receive the word of life. The manner of his introduction to them was by no means likely to ensure him a favourable reception. "Here," said the person who brought him among them, "you have a Missionary, who is come to convert you; now mind and be converted, or you shall go to prison." The effect this foolish speech produced on the Gipsies may be easily imagined, and likewise how useless it rendered the situation of the Missionary who desired to labour among them. They took to flight whenever they saw him approach, and thus, humanly speaking, there appeared not the least prospect of success, as the seed of the word could not so much as be sown. But HE, who alone is able to turn the heart, mercifully looked upon the work, and directed him to the right means effectually to bring it about.

The Gipsies were obliged to cultivate the land on which they were permitted to reside; but being quite ignorant of agriculture, they were at a loss how to proceed. The missionary undertook himself to give them advice and assistance in the work. Seeing the success that attended his labours, they began to be much more diligent in the cultivation of their grounds, while their confidence daily increased in their missionary, and they became more accessible and willing to be taught. At last they asked him for what reason the people at Berlin had sent him among them? and when he told them, they were overpowered with gratitude, and melted into tears. Their attachment to him and the friends who had sent him, became stronger and stronger. In some cases, it may be true, the conquest of their prejudices against the missionary, might proceed from the advantages they reaped by attending to his advice; and this is much to their credit, and is a most desirable improvement. It is hoped they will soon be led to attend sincerely to his religious instructions.

A gentleman resident in one of the towns of Hampshire, was agreeably surprised one sabbath morning, by seeing a number of Gipsies at public worship; and on being induced to converse with them, was pleased to find that they regularly attended divine service at Southampton, and other places. He directed them to move their tents into a more commodious situation in one of his own fields. This unusual act of kindness, which however required no great sacrifice on his part, made so deep an impression on the hearts of this people, as is not likely to be forgotten: they will speak of his kindness as long as they live. This, as well as the instances we have mentioned already in this work, and many more which we may not notice, shew that we are not without opportunities of observing their gratitude for those favours that have been bestowed upon them.

They receive with willingness one of their own people, who is now a reformed and pious character, living at Southampton, and whom we have named in a former page. They now rejoice, too, in the assurance that a great number of good Christians pity and love them, and are seeking to promote their present and everlasting happiness.

It is therefore much to be wished, that committees of ladies or gentlemen were formed in every town in the kingdom, and their attention directed to this neglected class of British subjects. An active person might be found in every place, to act under the sanction of such committees, who should visit their tents, instruct them in the Scriptures, and pray with and for them (the latter he should never neglect) by which means he would gain their confidence, and would always be looked on as a friend. Such a person should not be ashamed to speak kindly to them when he meets them in the street, or on the road. Indeed at all times he should converse with them plainly and affectionately about the great love of the Redeemer, in coming into this our world, to suffer and die for guilty sinners, of whom they make a number. But all the labour should not be confined to one person. Every member of these committees should be alive to this good work; as also all Christians, and especially ministers.

But should there not be sufficient energy and benevolence in all towns to form a committee, two or three who are well disposed to the object, may unite together and accomplish a great deal. And should there not be found more than one person thus benevolently disposed, let not that one be discouraged. The single talent must not be neglected, should it be only the power to give a cup of cold water, or to speak one word about the water of life to a necessitous and perishing Gipsy; for it may not, cannot be in vain. Reader, are you doing what you can in this humble way? It may be, you would rather ascend the pulpit and preach to well-informed Christians, or visit the ignorant in your own town! This is well; but the other should not be left undone. The wanderers in the wilderness are not to be forgotten; the outcasts of society are to be sought after. Let us imitate our adorable Redeemer, _who went about doing good_, and who sought those who were not the least desirous of finding him. As an encouragement to British Christians, who are alive to the happiness of the Gipsies, they should know that there are many among them desirous of a new mode of life, as will appear by an application lately made to the author.

"_Bristol_, _Oct._ 11_th_, 1830.

"My dear Sir,

"I am unwilling to let a parcel go to Southampton, without sending
you a line to give you a little information respecting H---, of whom
I made enquiry if she had called on the friends to whom I directed
her? This was done by her; but she could obtain no employment. Both
H--- and her husband conduct themselves in a very satisfactory
manner. A young lady, I hope, will employ her soon; and, perhaps, in
time she may get into regular work; but at present, she gets very
little, and it is very necessary that the man should have employment.
The cork trade is now over; (he used to sell corks.) They can have
the loan of a donkey for two months for nothing, and that being the
case, I told H--- to look out for a small cart, which I desired her
to hire for a week, and sell coals and potatoes in small quantities.
{97} I have felt fearful lest you should think me too busy; but
necessity has compelled me to do something, or they must have almost
_starved_; and I cannot bear the thought of their wanting bread;
knowing it must be a great temptation for them to return to their old
habits. The man appears much altered for the better. He said one
day, when they wanted food, that he would rather beg than oblige his
wife to return to fortune-telling. H--- tells me that her husband
and she live happily, and that they have had words but once since
they left their vagrant life. I am also happy to discover in her
pleasing evidences of honesty, as she pays her weekly rent often
before it is due, when she has money, fearing that she may spend it
in food. Job, their son, has no work, but I hope that he will be
able to help his father. Do, my dear Mr Crabb, pray for this little
branch of your family. I have received two pounds for your Infants'
Schools, from Mr ---, and would send it now, but I have been obliged
to expend a considerable part of it on these poor Gipsies. Do write
to me when you can, and give me advice respecting this poor family."

The author must remark that, since the above letter was received,
others also have been sent from two ladies in that neighbourhood,
which give the Southampton committee great pleasure. The following
are extracts.

"I have seen Mr ---, and have had a pleasing interview with Miss ---,
relating to the poor wanderers you wrote to me about. I have had the
man and woman at my house. After having heard H--- read, I told her
'that the leprosy she had been reading of, represented the evil of
our sinful heart; that we were born with it; that it prevailed in
every part of the soul; and that we had lived always under its
influence.' She exclaimed, _dear me_! _ I never heard the like of
that before_! _now it seems good for me to know this_. She wept
much. When I told her of the love of Christ, she appeared struck
with her own extreme ingratitude. Her expressions were so simple and
full of pathos, that my heart was quite overcome. She ran out of the
room for her husband, and on her return, said, "ah! _do talk_ to my
poor husband, just what you said to me." I found him not so
interesting, but desirous of leaving his wandering life for ever, and
get employment if possible. They have made some flower baskets for
me; and hoping they may obtain orders for more, I have recommended
them to my friends. I have heard of another family, consisting of
fourteen souls, who encamp on Bedminster Down, and there by God's
help, I intend to send a minister of Jesus, to try what can be done
for them. There is also another family expected, who have a house of
_their own_ at Bedminster, and who winter there. Should the Lord
bless our humble endeavours, we must have a regular Committee, and
set about our work in a workman-like manner; nothing short of a
Colony will satisfy me. I intend to introduce this interesting
subject at a party this evening, and hope the Lord will open the
hearts of his people, to do good to those poor benighted wanderers."

The author has also just received from a clergyman in Scotland, a most interesting account of a colony of Gipsies in that country, where, I am happy to observe, they do not seem so much hunted as in England. And as the severity of their winters drive them into houses for three months, during that season, there is offered a fair opportunity to both ministers and kindly disposed Christians to do them good. The letter alluded to is most gladly inserted with the view to encourage the Christian denominations of England to imitate the benevolence, zeal, and industry of their much respected brethren the Scotch.

"_Yetholm Hall_, _Dec._ 11_th_, 1830.

"My dear Sir,

"Through the report of the Society for ameliorating the condition of
that unfortunate race, the Gipsies, I am acquainted with your name,
and with your benevolent exertions in their behalf. As the minister
of a parish in which perhaps the largest colony of this people in
Scotland reside, and naturally, therefore, very much interested in
any plan that promises to improve their condition, I take the liberty
of writing you; not so much for the purpose of answering the numerous
queries subjoined to the report, as of requesting your advice and
opinion, with regard to what plan might be adopted for the
improvement of the colony, placed, in some degree, under my care and
superintendence. I have but lately been called to the ministerial
office, and appointed to the pastoral care of this parish; and
previous to the period of my appointment, I had no opportunity of
being acquainted with the character and habits of the Gipsies. Your
longer acquaintance with this people, and experience, may suggest to
me some useful hints on the subject, should you take the trouble to
notice this letter. The number of Gipsies in the parish of Yetholm
is about 100. You are no doubt already in some degree acquainted
with the Gipsies of Kirk Yetholm, from the interesting notices
furnished by Mr Smith, of Kelso, and published in HOYLAND'S SURVEY,
and in one of the earliest numbers of Blackwood's Magazine. And his
account of them is substantially correct to this day. It would
appear that the Gipsy population of this place is fluctuating. In
1798, there were only 59. In 1818, when Mr Smith wrote, there were
109. In 1830, there are 100. And in a few years more, this number
may be considerably diminished or increased. The greater part of
them are "muggers," or "potters," who carry earthen-ware about the
country for sale. There are two horn spoon makers; all the others
are abroad from their head quarters, of Kirk Yetholm, from eight to
nine months in the year. The history of some of the individuals and
families of the clan, would furnish something very interesting. One
of the family of the Taa's is still denominated the "King." The
number of children belonging to each family is generally large.
There may be thirty children under twelve years of age. The parents
express themselves very anxious that their children should be
educated, and are willing, for this purpose, to leave them at home
all the summer; and farther, that they should be trained to some
occupation different from their own. Many of the parents declare,
that they would willingly remain at home, could they be supplied with
constant employment. Of late, the greater number of them have
occasionally attended church, and some of them continue to attend
most regularly when at home. A considerable number of the younger
children also, when at home, attend our Sabbath School. I have
likewise assisted the parents to send most of their children to the
Day School: still, however, these children are at home scarcely three
months in the depth of winter. Several families have not returned
yet. Their education, therefore, even were they sent regularly to
school, during this time, would be very limited. And besides, by
attending the parents to the country, they contract an attachment to
their loose, wandering life, which must tend to perpetuate the
peculiarities of the tribe. A few weeks ago I was requested by Dr
Baird, the Principal of the University, and one of the ministers of
Edinburgh, to write out a pretty full account of these my
parishioners. This I have done. The account, however, was written
so hastily, that I had not time even to correspond with you on the
subject, before doing so, as my object in writing to you was chiefly
to propose some plan which might be adopted for their improvement, on
which you might give me some useful information. In this account, I
have proposed that a fund or subscription should be raised for the
purpose of keeping the children at home during those months their
parents are traversing the country, for paying their school wages,
and, if possible, for giving a salary to a teacher to superintend
their education, and that a small additional sum be occasionally in
readiness for paying an apprentice-fee with the boys. This account
may probably be published. I am in hopes, also, that the Principal
will interest himself in the cause. Should the account be published,
the proof-sheet may be sent down to me, ere long, in which case I
should wish to hear from you before that time, as I may have then an
opportunity of supplying any hint, or otherwise altering the plan
proposed, from your kind communication. The sum which I conceived
would be required for the purpose was about a hundred pounds per
annum. Mr B---, of Killau, with whom, I believe, we both have the
pleasure of being acquainted, has more than once wished me to open a
correspondence with you on this subject. He also is interested in
the cause, and promises to use his influence with others. I think he
told me that some more detailed account of your plan was published,
or preparing for the press, in which various alterations and
improvements had been made. This was an additional reason for my
wishing to hear from you, before submitting to the people of Scotland
any plan on the subject. I should wish to know how the cause
prospers with you, and what number you have at present under your
care. I am extremely interested for this unfortunate people, and any
information therefore with regard to what is doing elsewhere, would
be acceptable. May He prosper the cause, whose blessing alone can
render our labours effectual!

I remain, my dear Sir,

With much respect and esteem,
Yours truly,
JOHN BAIRD.

"P. S.--I have just received a letter from Principal Baird, informing me that my account of the Gipsies of Kirk Yetholm, will be published, and a proof for correction be sent to me shortly. It will be published in a new statistical account of Scotland, which will ensure for it a very extensive circulation, especially among the ministers of the established church of Scotland."

Another letter relating to the Gipsies of Yetholm, has been received from the same clergyman, extracts of which may be seen in the Appendix.

CHAP. XII. Plans suggested to the pious and benevolent, for promoting a Reformation among the Gipsies, continued.

It is usual, in Southampton, for a few pence to be given to a child who informs any of the members of the Committee when a family of Gipsies begin to erect their tents on the common, that they may immediately be visited by our Reader. This may be done elsewhere. It may be well, too, to buy a basket, or any other article they may honestly have to dispose of, when opportunity offers; but it is not well to bestow money on them, unless in sickness or want. When their wives are confined, a favourable opportunity offers to bring into action the sympathies of compassion in other females; and what gratitude would such an instance of tenderness beget! These poor women have frequently been heard to exclaim, while tears filled their eyes, _How kind_, _how good to us_! for favours very much less!

The author has seldom met with instances of ingratitude, though he is obliged to record one. He was interested in the reformation of a Gipsy family that encamped, a short time since, about five miles from Southampton, whom he visited early on a Monday morning. Reaching the camp, accompanied by the old Gipsy he has often mentioned in the course of this work, he said to them, "Since you would not come to see me, I am come to see you." The camp, consisting of eight persons, gave him a cordial reception, the husband excepted, who said, he did not want his company. "You certainly do not mean what you say," said his friend; to which he ungratefully replied, "I never speak words without meaning." In a good-natured way he was questioned as to the truth of his being a Gipsy, accompanied with the remark, that Gipsies were seldom ungrateful for the favours which were shown them. In half an hour after, he left the camp very angrily. This man had been released from many years' imprisonment, through the author's intercession; but having associated with thieves so long, the worst principles of his heart were drawn forth. Before he left the camp, he said he had no care about his children, but to feed and clothe them. "Then you only treat your children as a man does his dogs and pigs." He replied, that "such treatment was good enough." This is a common sentiment; for the generality of parents have no further care about their children than to feed and clothe them. Such persons are not perhaps aware how nearly they come to that dreadful state of mind and heart, of which this ungrateful Gipsy so wickedly boasted.

After he had left the party, those who remained attended to conversation and prayer, when one of the women wept bitterly on account of her sin of fortune-telling. The author has since been informed that this poor man expresses his sorrow for his uncalled-for behaviour.

The plans adopted in Southampton, for the conversion of the Gipsies in Hampshire, are now generally known among their people. Not long ago, an old woman brought four orphans of a deceased relative from a great distance, in order to place them under the care of the Committee. On this occasion the old woman thus addressed the author. "Are you Mr Crabb?" Being told, yes, she continued--"Mr Chas. Stanley, a Gipsey, desired me to bring you these poor orphans." The author being assured that they were orphans, promised, after some conversation, to visit their tent the following day. He did so, and never can he forget the distressing scene he then witnessed. It was winter, and the weather was unusually cold, there being much snow on the ground. The tent, which was only covered with a _ragged_ blanket, was pitched on the lee side of a _small_ hawthorn bush. The children had stolen a few _green_ sticks from the hedges, but they would not burn. _There was no straw_ in the tent, and only one blanket to lay betwixt six children and the frozen ground, with nothing to cover them. The youngest of these children was three, and the eldest, seventeen years old. In addition to this wretchedness, the smaller children were nearly naked. The youngest was squatted on the ground, her little feet and legs bare, and gnawing a frozen turnip, which had been stolen from an adjoining field. None of them had tasted bread for more than a day. The moment they saw their visitor, the little ones repeatedly shouted, "Here is the _gemman come for us_!" Some money was given to the oldest sister to buy bread with, at which their joy was greatly increased. Straw was also provided for them to sleep on, four were measured for clothes, and, after a few days, they were placed under the care of one of our reformed Gipsies. The youngest child died, however, a short time after, in consequence of having been so neglected in infancy.

The children were cleanly washed and newly clothed, before they were removed from the common. Perhaps they had never been thoroughly washed before. The oldest sister would not give up her wandering habits; and the oldest boy chose to go back to the camp again; so that the Committee had soon only three of them in charge. And these were so filthy in their habits for a long time, that it was very disagreeable to be near them. It is hoped that, though they have lost their earthly parents, they may be led, through this event, to God their heavenly Father. These children were soon baptized, and two of them are improving at one of the Infants' Schools.

A short account of their parents may not be out of place here. The mother was a great fortune-teller and swindler. She once robbed a poor shepherd in Dorsetshire of twenty pounds, by promising to fill his box with money. Their father was a most depraved character. Their life and practices are well described in the language of the Apostle, _Let us eat and drink_, _for to morrow we die_. 1 Cor. xv. 32. The man was the buffoon of their company, and became more depraved every year. They often had a great deal of money, which was, no doubt, obtained through dishonest means. On one occasion, he and many other Gipsies, entered the parlour of a small public house on the borders of Hants, when emptying the contents of a dirty purse into an half-pint cup, he nearly filled it with sovereigns; and declared, they would not leave the house, till they had spent it all. His wife, at this time, who was intoxicated, was robbed of all the money she had got from the poor credulous shepherd, excepting one pound.

The same man once put 150 sovereigns into his kettle, to treat himself with what he called, _gold water_, for his tea; a piece of folly and wickedness only equalled by a fact with which the author is well acquainted, when an old man had his gold put under his pillow, and often shown to him, when he was dying. We need not wonder, therefore, that the children of this Gipsy couple should be so ignorant, depraved, and destitute. For money that is ill-gotten, and squandered in extravagance, entails a double curse on the parties concerned. But to return to the subject of this chapter.

To visit the Gipsies in their tents is of great importance. Clergymen of the Establishment, dissenting ministers, and home missionaries, have at various times done this, and conversed freely with them on the Christian religion; and it has _not been in vain_. Indeed, nothing that is done, through Jesus Christ, purposely to please God, and benefit the wretched, can fail to produce a good effect. The Rev. Messrs Hyatt and Cobbin, who were deputed by the Home Missionary Society, to visit many parts of England, to enquire into the condition of this people, had no doubt, but that much good may be done among them, if proper means are pursued. It has many times been proved, that to attempt to raise them in society, without the influence of religious instruction, would be improper. They have not sufficient principles of honesty, nor purity of conduct, till they are taught those principles, and changed, by religion. One, among several instances, may be named.

A young female Gipsy, remarkable for the beauty of her person, was much noticed by a lady of rank. She was made to sit many times for her portrait, was introduced into the drawing-room, and became of consequence as one of the family. She might have done well, had she not given up all her prospects by running away with a Gipsy youth, for whom she had an attachment, and with whom she has ever since lived in great misery. If less attention had been paid to her beauty, and more to the cultivation of right principles, she might now have been reformed, religious, and happy.

To those who wish to forward the instruction of the children of these wanderers, which is of vast importance, the use of tins with letters and monosyllables stamped upon them, is recommended. A little ink or paint will be necessary to make the letters visible. This plan would save much expense, and render elementary books unnecessary. They could not be torn, as books generally are. The pieces thrown away by the tinman, if the corners were taken off, would answer every purpose. To induce those children, who cannot be got from the tent, to learn from these tins, the visitor might promise them an old garment, or some other trifle. Should the Gipsies conduct themselves properly, when thus visited, a little willow-wood may be given them to encourage them in industry, and forward the manufactory of baskets. And it might be well were a small piece of ground devoted to the growth of willows, in neighbourhoods frequented by them, on purpose to encourage them thereby. It might be adviseable, too, to give them testimonials on a card, of good conduct, when about to remove to another district, which might serve as an introduction to benevolent persons, and those interested in their welfare in other places; and this means would effectually prevent all imposition, keep up the attention of the good among them, and would constantly bring them before the notice of christian society. Such kindness would be felt by the Gipsies, and, in time, might produce a good effect. This method has been attended to by the Southampton Committee.

The great object that Christians should have in view, should be to instruct them in the blessed truths of the Christian religion, imbue them with a happy sense of honesty and morality, and then reclaim them wholly from their unsettled and wandering habits; for until they have some knowledge of religion, and some anxiety to reform, they would only be worse by being brought constantly before the bad examples that would be set them in towns. Of course, such a change _cannot be fully accomplished in the present generation_; it cannot be expected. But their conversion to God will wholly be accomplished in time, if all Christians do their duty, depending on the influence of the Holy Spirit.

From what has been said in this chapter, it will appear, that, visiting their tents to pray for, and instruct them, teaching such children to read as cannot get to public schools, and prevailing on all who are able to do so, to attend public worship; are the principal things to be attempted, in this great and good undertaking. Those Christians who wish for opportunities of doing good to the Gipsies in and about London, will find many of them in the suburbs in the months of April, May, and June, when they generally find work in the market gardens. In the months of July and August they move into Sussex and Kent, and are engaged in the harvest. And in the month of September, _great numbers_ of them are to be found in the hop-districts of Kent, Sussex and Surry, where they find employment. During the winter, many of them settle in London, Westminster, Bristol, and other large towns, when a good opportunity is presented for teaching, both to the children and adults of this class, the elements of reading, and the principles of true religion. For the information of those who may wish to visit the Gipsies in London and Bristol, during the winter, the author thinks it his duty to name the streets where they generally reside.

Tottenham-court Road; Battle Bridge; Paddington; Bolton Street; Church Lane; Church Street; Kent Street, Borough; New Street; White Street; Banbridge Street; Shore-ditch; Tothill-fields; and Tunbridge Street. In Bristol they are principally found in Saint Phillip's, Newfoundland Street, Bedminster, and at the March and September fairs.

At the Ascot and Epsom races, they may be met in large numbers; and if a benevolent, kind, and zealous minister of Christ were to visit them at their encampments at these seasons, and explain to them the facts, doctrines, and blessings of the Gospel, much good might be done. The morning would be the happiest time to visit these Gipsies, as they are too often at races, inebriated before night. It is presumed little could be said to profit them in a state of intoxication, and many of the women are then employed either in swindling or fortune-telling.

Should the sympathies of the British public be efficiently directed to the Gipsies of this country, it may call forth the zeal of other nations to improve their still more degraded condition on the Continent, where more than half a million of them wander, ignorant as the heathens of all that is necessary to salvation. Those of this country loudly call upon us for instruction, which may easily be given them. Let all who have either time, money, or ability, give a helping hand; and, above all, assist by their unfeigned and earnest prayers. It may be very advisable to pray publicly for them in places of worship, and at the family altar, after visiting them in the highways and hedges. It might impress those of them who attend, with a grateful sense of the gracious care of God, and lead Christian congregations to think more of them, and to do more for them. May the merciful God of heaven and of earth, hasten the happy period, when the Gipsies of this, and of all other countries, shall embrace, and love, and be obedient to the Gospel of the gracious Redeemer!

CHAP. XIII. Further Account of encouraging interviews with Gipsies, and interesting Correspondence.

The author laments that he has passed so many years of his life wholly careless of the Gipsies of this country. Having travelled many times through England, he has had frequent opportunities of seeing them. But, till now, he looked on their conversion as a hopeless case, and nearly wholly neglected them. He has already stated the manner his attention was first roused to consider their condition and necessities more particularly, and he reflects with pleasure on the kindness of Providence in leading him to witness those events which called for sympathy towards them; and on the mercy of God so apparent in blessing the labours of himself and others in their behalf.

The late Rev. Legh Richmond felt a deep interest in the conversion of this people. To awaken the sympathies and energies of his countrymen to that subject, he composed the following hymn on their behalf.

THE GIPSIES' PETITION.

Oh! ye who have tasted of mercy and love,
And shared in the blessings of pardoning grace;
Let us the kind fruits of your tenderness prove,
And pity, oh! pity the poor Gipsy race

For long have we wandered, neglected and wild,
Esteemed by all people as wretched and base;
Nor once on our darkness has light ever smiled;
Then pity, oh! pity the poor Gipsy race.

Like you, we have lost that pure gem, which, when lost,
Not the mines of Golconda {115} can ever replace;
To redeem it the blood of a Saviour it cost:
Then pity, oh! pity the poor Gipsy race.

Like us, you were wild in the sight of your God;
But he looked, and he loved, and he pitied your case;
The Redeemer has cleansed you in streams of his blood;
Then pity, oh! pity the poor Gipsy race.

Ye, who have found mercy, that mercy display;
Ye sons of adoption, your origin trace;
And then sure you cannot your face turn away,
But will pity and pray for the poor Gipsy race;

That we may form part of that numerous throng,
Redeemed from destruction by infinite grace;
And mingle with you in the heavenly song;
Then pity, oh! pity the poor Gipsy race.

It has been the custom of the author to have a yearly meeting of the Gipsies at his own house, which is then open to all their families. Here, early in the year 1830, those who were in the lanes and on the common near Southampton, met many of their kind and religious friends, who are interested in their happiness. The morning was agreeably spent in a religious service, conducted for their spiritual benefit; after which some attention was paid to their temporal wants. Forty-eight of them, all nearly related to each other, who were at that time assembled in the neighbourhood to renew their family friendships, attended on this occasion, and were much pleased with the services in which they engaged. Different portions of the Scriptures were read and expounded to them, after which they had a plain and familiar address. It was a pleasure to meet these people at a throne of grace. After partaking of bread and cheese and ale, during which they conducted themselves very properly, a blanket was presented to the proprietor of each tent, a pair of stockings to every individual, and a quantity of calico for changes for the children. There were thirteen reformed Gipsies among them, who spent the rest of the day in reading the Scriptures to their brethren at their own houses.

These people expressed themselves very gratefully. One of the families, of whom the mother could read, begged a bible. Some weeks after this bible had been given, the family was visited in its tent, when this copy of the Holy Scriptures was shewn to him, who observed many of the pages doubled down to mark the passages with which the reader had been impressed. The father of the family said--"I will never rest till I can read that book through." This poor man now attends divine service whenever he has an opportunity, although he strongly opposed, at one time, the reading of the Scriptures in his tent.

A lady, who was present at this meeting, asked one of the reformed Gipsies, how she had felt herself on that morning? She replied--"I never was so happy;" and, after a short silence, continued--"The dinner we had last year, was much better than that we had to-day, as it was roast beef and plum-pudding; but what I heard then, of the minister's address, was only the word of man to me; but to-day, it has been the word of God; I am sure it has."

Although it may be feared, that to many Gipsies then present, the reading of the Scriptures, and the familiar address, were only as _the words of man_, yet is there reason to hope they understood it, and that they will benefit thereby.

This woman had an only surviving brother who was killed in fighting, and whose death was instantaneous. She was exceedingly distressed, and observed, in reference to this awful circumstance, "I should not have thought of his soul after death, at one time; but now I can read my Testament, I am sure that none can go to heaven but those who are born again." And she made an observation, too, of the utmost importance, shewing the great necessity there is for the Gipsies to be taught to read. _My being able to read myself_, said she, _has a great deal more effect upon me_, _than it would if another read it to me_, _and I could not read_; _for now_ I AM SURE IT IS IN THE BOOK. She carries her Testament in her pocket when she goes a journey, and reads it to her former companions, when she meets them on the road; and if they express any wonder at the change that has taken place, she refers them to the Scriptures as the cause, and her kind friends at Southampton, as the instruments.

The following circumstance lately occurred, and will shew the improvement that has taken place in her daughters. One of them had been sent by her mother to receive the weekly sum allowed her. On receiving the money, she said, "This is twopence too much, sir." Being accustomed now and then to give her a few pence towards buying a Testament, she was told to keep it for that purpose. "I thank you," said she, "I have got a Testament, now, and mother has given her's to my next sister, since she has had a bible; and my youngest sister had a Testament given her at the Sunday School: but one of us is saving money to buy a hymn-book with; I will give _her_ the twopence."

This incident, trifling as it may seem to some, will not fail to gratify others, whose hearts are anxiously desirous of improving the Gipsies.

In the autumn of 1830, the author felt a strong desire to visit Farnham, where were, at that time, thousands of poor people assembled to pick hops, among whom were many Gipsies. Stanley was sent a few days before to make known his intentions of preaching to them on the evening of a fixed day. While at Farnham, Stanley ate, drank, and slept in some of their camps, by which he gained their confidence and affection.