It was a rare distinction of the good man whose
name stands at the head of this chapter, that children everywhere loved
him, and recognized in him their true friend. An enduring monument of
his love for children, and his untiring efforts to do them good is found
in the books he has written for them. His _Child's Book on the Soul_,
has, if I am not mistaken, been translated into French, German, and
Modern Greek, and has issued from the Mission-press at Ceylon, in one or
more of the dialects of India. It has also been partially rendered into
the vernacular at the missionary stations, in opposite parts of the
world. His _Child's Book on Repentance_, and his _Histories of the
Patriarchs_, published by the American Tract Society, are the result of
diligent study. The _Life of Moses_ may be specified, as having cost him
most laborious investigation; and it is true of them all that there is
in them an amount of illustrative Biblical research, and a depth of
mental philosophy, which more ambitious writers would have reserved for
their theological folios. But even his books, widely as they are known
and appreciated, convey but an imperfect idea of the writer's power to
interest and benefit children. They cannot present his affectionate,
playful manner, nor the genial and irresistible humor of his intercourse
with them. Mothers were glad to meet Mr. Gallaudet, but they were more
glad to have their children meet him, even in the street; for a kind
word, or a smile of pleasant greeting, told every young friend, even
there, that he was remembered and cared for,--and these things encourage
children to try to deserve favor.
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