THE LADIES' REPOSITORY.

CINCINNATI, OCTOBER, 1843.

Original.

THE HAWK'S NEST.

BY J. G. BRUCE.

though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. There is a river, the streams whereof make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High."

ALL who have ever passed up the valley, and above the falls of the Great Kanawha, and wound around the mountain spurs which skirt New River, with its Returning from Lewisburg, in 1839, we conceived beautiful cascades, have seen the "Hawk's Nest," or the design of ascertaining its altitude by actual meaas it is now scientifically called, "Marshall's Pillar." surement. Having constructed a water level, and proConnected with it there is many a tale of horror, vided ourselves with other necessary apparatus, we prethe recital of which chills the blood, and sends it shiver-pared to descend to the bed of the river a half mile ing back upon the heart. The "Hawk's Nest" is nine above. Our company consisted of Rev. S. Robinson, miles above the junction of Gauly with New River, and of Charleston, Virginia; Mr. F. Brooks; Col. Hamilis the principal object of interest among the cliffs of the ton, and his little son, some ten years of age; Mrs. latter. The James River and Kanawha turnpike passes B., and myself. At about 2 o'clock, we commenced near it, and thousands every year stand upon its sum- our descent, winding down the side of the mounmit to wonder and admire. It is a mass of red sand- tain by one of the most zig zag paths ever pressed stone, rising perpendicularly eight hundred or a thou- by human foot. The sun poured a full tide of light and sand feet above the bed of the river: it is nearly a naked heat upon our pathway, and scarce a breeze breathed rock, destitute of shrub or flower for several feet, except refreshment on a fainting world; and, though surone little scrubby pine, which seems to have been rounded by planted there for the benefit of coward pilgrims; for, without the support it yields, few would ever look into the depths beneath. Back a few paces are large forest trees. As you stand upon the projecting point of the rock you have a fine view of the river, which, on your left, comes tumbling and foaming along its confined and irregular channel; at your feet it is as quiet as the mountain lake, when no wind of heaven breaths upon its bosom a polished mirror, throwing back the image of every object painted on its surface, calmed to sleep in the deep cradle which nature has hewn in the solid rock. Its quiet seems an act of reverend respect to the pillar that towers above in silent grandeur; for it has only passed a little on to the right, when it again sends up its everlasting murmur and dashes on, as if in haste || to leave its mountain home. The language put into "Bruar waters," by the Scottish bard, may be appropriately used by New River:

"Here, foaming down the shelvy rocks,
In twisting strength I rin:
There, high my boiling torrent smokes,
Wild roaring o'er a linn:

Enjoying large each spring and well,
As nature gave them me,

I am, altho' I say't mysel,

Worth gaun a mile to see."

The Christian, as he gazes upon this scene of beautiful confusion, and listens to the wild anthem of the ever rolling flood, will feel the force, and see the beauty of the Psalmist's exclamation, “Let the floods clap their hands, let the hills be joyful together before the Lord;" "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble; therefore will not we fear, VOL. III.-37

"Majestic woods, of ever vigorous green,

Stage above stage, high waving o'er the hills," we suffered greatly from the effects of the heat; but the wildness of the scene, and the novelty of our own position, beguiled our pain, and urged us on. At the end of half an hour we had all gained the margin of the river, and sat down to breathe, and contemplate the stupendous works of the supreme Architect, with which we were surrounded. The tall cliffs rose above us, bearing upon their sides, here and there, a vine, whose rich foilage contrasted delightfully with the rock on whose brow time had chiseled many a line. On their summit stood the pine and cedar, whose leaf is ever green; above was the deep blue heaven, overcast here and there by the soft fleecy clouds, passing lazily to and fro, as if in quest of some parched spot on which to drop the gentle rain. New River dashed madly on at our feet, as if angered that we had invaded her sanctuary. Around were the holly, a favorite of the Scottish bard; the magnolia, whose crimson fruit blushed in the sun-light; at their roots bloomed the lily; the wild birds sang among their branches, joining their treble to the hoarse and mighty bass of the river. As we gazed upon this scene of beauty and terror, we exclaimed, "Great and marvelous are thy works, Lord God Almighty;" "Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name?"

We had supposed that, this point reached, our difficulties were at an end until we should commence our ascent. But it was a sad mistake. The valley was, in many places, choked up by drift wood and huge masses of stone; these must be passed, if we would

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THE JOYS OF PRAYER.

reach the base of the "Hawk's Nest;" and with our ardor somewhat abated, and a feeling of weariness approaching exhaustion, we renewed our journey, and at half-past 3 o'clock reached the base; and, having with the eye measured it to its "topmost towering height," and duly counted the cost of taking its altitude with such instruments as we had, concluded to "wait for a more convenient season:" a conclusion agreeing well with our extreme lassitude. We held a consultation as to the route by which we should return-whether we should climb our way back along the path by which we had come, or ascend the almost perpendicular cliff just above the "Hawk's Nest." This Col. Hamilton told us was a passable route; but no lady had ever ventured to travel it, and it was doubtful about Mrs. B. being able to accomplish it. But she determined to become our pioneer, and this decided us in favor of the new route; and laying down our instruments, to be washed away by the first swell of the river, we commenced ascending where few had gone before, and few will come after us. Our pathway was over loose masses of sand-stone, rolling under our feet and tumbling down the steep until, broken to atoms, they were lost in the distance, and the echoes they had startled into existence died away in the fastness of the everlasting rocks. About two hundred feet up, we gained a bench of rock where we could rest, and sat down sighing for

"Water, clear, cold water,

In the running brook so blue." Above us rose, in solemn grandeur, the "Hawk's Nest;" beneath New River slept in quiet beauty. We loosened some of the larger rocks from their resting places and started them down to join their kindred that had gone before; and, as they rushed down with the lightning's speed, we slowly toiled up the steep ascent, helping ourselves forward by catching every shrub within our reach. One hundred feet brought us to a perpendicular elevation thirty feet high, which we had to pass by means of an Indian ladder; i. e., a pole notched at regular intervals. We climbed up as best we could; and having gained the table above, sat down to rest and talk over the tales of horror told of the "Hawk's Nest."

Having rested, we passed along a ledge of rocks where we found large quantities of salt petre. Formerly (Col. H. told us) the hunters were in the habit of coming here for the purpose of making gun-powder; but since they have been able to obtain it in exchange for skins, furs, &c., there are very few who make it themselves. They would come just before the setting in of winter, and make the quantity which they supposed would be necessary for the season. But their fires were extinguished—they were not there—and their only traces were a few half charred logs, and some scattered beds of ashes. We wound up a narrow defile, and found ourselves standing upon the turnpike, each congratulating the other upon his healthful appearance. It was 6 o'clock, P. M.; we had six miles to drive; we returned to Col. H.'s, where we had left our horses; and, having taken some pure cold water, we bade our kind and gentlemanly host adieu, and threw ourselves into our carriages. The stars had set their watch before we reached the public house, where, after partaking of some refreshment, and recounting our adventures, we were lulled to sleep by the everlasting dirge of the New River cascades.

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THE JOYS OF PRAYER. EVEN in those parts of prayer that might seem only painful, there is a pleasure that would be ill exchanged for this world's most boasted bliss. In the bitterness of repentant sorrow for sin, there is a sweetness; in the agony of fervent supplication for pardon, there is a joy, as much superior to the best the world can boast, as the heavens are higher than the earth

The broadest smile unfeeling folly wears,

Less pleasing far than prayer's repentant tears.

O! what a happy, heaven-foretasting life might the children of God enjoy on earth, if they would live a life of prayer! How calm might they be in the midst of the wildest storms. How joyful in the midst of the deepest tribulations. How composed and cheerful, while all around was agitation and alarm-the smile of heaven sparkling around their path, the peace of heaven dwelling within their hearts.

They say that travelers in Alpine regions are encomOne was that, many years ago, before the present passed with a clear atmosphere, and cloudless sunshine, road was opened, and few, if any, knew of this place, while traversing the summits of those lofty mountains, two hunters, having pursued their game until it became " at the very time that the world below them is all wrapt dark, stopped to spend the night on the "Hawk's Nest." Having kindled a fire, one of them took his cup to procure water from the stream whose murmur came up so invitingly. He approached the precipice, and reached over to dip the water, but failing to do so, he stretched himself further over; but his arm would not fathom a thousand feet, and he returned to the fire to sleep in happy unconciousness of the narrow escape he had made. But morning uncovered to his view his imminent peril. With what feelings must he have gazed into the depths beneath! and how sensibly must he have felt his obligations to Him "who piled the mountain, and reared the rough rock's height."

in mists and darkness, and thunder clouds are bursting at their feet. Even thus does prayer lift the believer to a loftier and serener region, far, far above the clouds and storms that darken and distract the world below. In that region of purity and peace, the atmosphere is clear and calm; and the light of God's countenance shines brightly on the believer's soul, while he sees the thunder-clouds of earthly care and sorrow rolling beneath his feet; thus realizing the beautiful illustration of the poet:

"As some tall cliff, that lifts its awful form,

Swells from the vale, and midway leaves the storm,
Though round its base the rolling clouds are spread,
Eternal sunshine settles on his head!"

SAUL AND THE WITCH OF ENDOR.

SAUL AND THE WITCH OF ENDOR. Out of thine impious hand. Before the sun

292

Original.

GNOSTICISM.

BY GEORGE WATERMAN, JR.

GNOSTICISM.

In all ages since letters have been cultivated there have been men who have arrogated to themselves the proud title of philosophers. Under the name of philosophy has been comprehended every thing which the imagination of man could invent. Nothing has been considered too absurd, nothing too ridiculous to be christened by this dignified title. Especially is this|| true of that system which we shall now attempt to describe.

The term gnostic is derived from the Greek word gowo, (gnosis,) signifying knowledge, and was assumed as a cognomen by those who pretended to superior wisdom and knowledge. The rise of gnosticism, as a system, was gradual. As a sect, the gnostics flourished principally in the second and third centuries of the Christian era. Some writers, especially Dr. Moshiem, have assigned to it an oriental birth-place, probably Persia, or India. We think, however, that there is no evidence to sustain this position. The probability, as we think, is that it originated in a far different manner. As Christianity extended its influence, it brought within the circle of its professed friends many of those who laid claim to the name of philosophers. These men were strongly attached to the doctrines of some one of the prevailing schools of those times. The most prominent of these was the Platonic. These philosophers found many things in Christianity which did not accord with those systems to which they felt strongly attached. To be Christians, and not to lose their character of philosophers, was the great object for which they strove. This could not be done unless it could be shown that the doctrines of Christianity and those of the schools were identical, or at least did not clash. In order to accomplish a task so difficult resort was had to what was termed the concealed meaning of the Scriptures. When this principle of two meaningsthe obvious and the hidden-was once entertained, it was easy to bend every thing to coincide with the preconceived ideas of those who advocated it. Many good men were led away by it, to the incalculable injury of the cause of Christ. If such a man as Origen could be led into error on this very subject—and so deeply as he was-it is not wonderful that those of less piety and learning, but of more prejudice and blind attachment to their respective systems, should be led to adopt a system so monstrous as that of the gnostics.

The time when gnosticism first arose cannot, with certainty, be determined. It is probable, however, that it was soon after the propagation of Christianity, although its principles may have existed antecedent to that time. Before the death of the apostles it began to manifest itself. Hence, we find Paul charging Timothy (1, vi, 20) to avoid profane, vain babbling, and oppositions of science, falsely so called. The word here translated science is gyors, (gnosis,) and evi

dently refers to those elements of the gnostic system which had began to show themselves even in the days of the apostles.

The gnostics were divided into several sects, the most prominent of which were the Valentinians. The system which they held will serve, with but little variation, for all the others. They believed that there was a great and eternal existence, or on, who was the author, directly or indirectly, of all things created-that he lived an indolent, inactive life, in a place called Pleroma, or space bounded by Horos, or limit. This Pleroma, thus bounded by a circle, contained the supreme and incomprehensible God, who never came out to notice the affairs of this lower world, but satisfied himself with inactivity and quietude. This mighty on, whom they called Bythos, or depth, had a wife, sometimes called Sige, or silence, sometimes Charis, or grace, and sometimes Ennoea, or thought. These two

ons begat two more, male and female, the first called Nus, or mind, the second Alethia, or truth. This Nus, or, as he was sometimes called, Monogenes, was the only one that could comprehend the greatness of his father, Bythos. Nus and Alethia begat two more, also male and female-Logos, or word, and Zoe, or life. These two another pair, Anthropos, or man, and Ecclesia, or church. These eight ons constituted those of the first class, or order, and were denominated the root or substance of all the rest. The last two pairs seeming to possess a greater desire to promote the glory of their great Original than the others, produced eleven couples more. Of these Logos and Zoe produced Bythus, or depth, and Mixis, or mixture-Ageratus, or never old, and Henosis, or union-Autophues, or selfbegotten, and Hedone, or pleasure-Acinetus, or unmovable, and Synerasis, or composition-Monogenes, or only begotten, and Macaria, or happiness. From Anthropos and Ecclesia proceeded Paracletus, comforter, and Pistis, faith-Patricus, paternal, and Elpis, hope-Metricus, maternal, and Agape, love-Acinos, eternal mind, and Synesis, understanding-Ecclesiasticus, preacher, and Macariotes, blessedness-Theletes, willing, and Sophia, wisdom. These thirty ons all resided in the before-mentioned Pleroma, mutually enjoying and rejoicing in one another.

We before stated that Nus, or Monogones, was the only one that could comprehend the greatness of Bythos. All the others anxiously desired this, especially Sophia, the last of the ons, whose desires were so strong as caused her to give birth to a nondescript called Matter. At this event she was so frightened that she would have fallen out of the Pleroma if Horos had not prevented. Her offspring, Matter, however, was cast out in Vacuo, from which afterward the worlds were formed. In order to prevent a similar calamity, Monogenes emitted two more Eons, called Christ and the Holy Ghost. The whole together, in some mysterious manner, afterward produced and sent forth Jesus, whom they also called the Savior, and with him a number of angels as his attendants.

Christ the Savior took pity on the offspring of So

DEATH OF AN INFANT.

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phia, giving to her a shape, and calling her Achamoth. || leads the choir. Yes, my child, Christ died for such as From her tears, laughter, &c., were formed all things thou art. He that cannot lie hath said, "Of such is without the Pleroma, with the exception of her own the kingdom of heaven." Thy mother saw but the dwelling place, which was situated midway between feeble dawn of thy being, for thou wast blighted in the the Pleroma and the abode of her son Demiurgus, the very bud of thine earthly existence. Still thy capacities maker and ruler of this world. This Demiurgus, after and powers of improvement shall continue to expand, he had created all things, retired to his own abode, and and thou shalt rise higher and higher in the scale of there remained in a state of supineness and inactivity, being for ever and for ever, and no future blight or sorleaving all his affairs to the administration of the devil. row shall retard thy progress; but thou shalt experiSuch is a sketch of their kosmogony, and the gov-ence one eternal, happy, glorious march of mind. ernment of the universe (if such perfect jargon can so be called.) How men calling themselves Christians could adopt such monstrous notions we cannot conceive. Nor were their other ideas any more consistent ||immortality. with reason or common sense. They held the God of the Jews in supreme contempt-esteeming him as a malicious being, whom Jesus came to destroy. They supposed all sin to consist in matter. Hence they held to the doctrine of self-mortification-esteeming that the more the body was kept under, the more holy and spir-wing, to welcome her to the abodes of bliss. itual would the mind become. Thus making sin the result of the necessary connection of the mind and body.

Live on then, my sweet child; live in the society of the pure and holy; live where sin cannot annoy thee; tune thy golden harp, and bless God and the Lamb for

Yes, when empires and kingdoms shall have passed away; when sun, moon and stars shall be blotted out, thy eternity has but just begun.

Thou hast not forgotten thy mother-no, love dies not in heaven-but thou shalt be the first, on angel

Farewell, then, my child; thy mother will weep no more for thee; she will no more sigh for thy return, for our separation will be but momentary. Time is short, and soon will be swallowed up in the vast ocean of eternity.

Other sects of the gnostics held the eternity of matter-others that it was not eternal, but almost so, having existed long before Demiurgus, and that he only Soon the dawn of a never-ending day shall be ushformed or modeled it. There were some other differ-ered in. Soon we shall mingle our songs with the inences, which time forbids our entering upon here. numerable multitude who unceasingly cry, "Holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts."-Mother's Magazine.

Irenæus was the great opposer of this heresy. It is from his works that we are enabled to ascertain their views and principles. There were many points in which gnosticism agreed with other prevailing heresies of those times, which will appear as these are unfolded. The frequent attacks which this system experienced from many of the early fathers, and the dissoluteness of the lives of many of its professors, ultimately caused it to go down; and the name of gnostic, which, at first, was glorious, became a term of reproach and ignominy.

DEATH OF AN INFANT.

ART thou gone, my child? Yes, thy toys, thy cradle, speak in language which cannot be mistaken. Such silence is truly eloquent. But thou canst not die again-death has no more power over thee. Thy fond mother will no more agonize at thy parting sigh. O glorious immortality!

Thou hast not lost thy way, my little one; for prophets and apostles, and even Christ himself has passed through the tomb before thee.

"THY WORD IS TRUTH."

I READ, and I believe. My soul is witness of the truth; of the truth of what I am; of what I must be; and of what I may be. The heavens may be no more; the sun may cease to shine, and the stars go out in darkness, but thy word stands secure and fixed, eternal truth. Years upon years may come and go, ages upon ages roll on a ceaseless round, and thy word stands eternal truth, eternal as thy own existence. Read by millions that have ceased to be on earth, and to be read by millions yet to come. And now it meets my eye: it comes to me, a sojourner here, as were my fathers; but soon, like them, I shall pass away. It speaks to me. I read, and I believe. I realize thy word is truth. Away from human speculations, from the folly of boasting human reasonings, I turn my eye. Too long have I built my faith on man's opinions. Now, O truth, O word of God, I come to thee. Naked I hang on thy word, and I prove thy word is truth. Thy promises, what are they? They are spirit, and they are life. My soul is unsupplied no more. Doubts and fears, where are ye? Ah, ye are consumed in the light of truth. Ye cannot bear the blaze of truth. And malice, and

Thou hast now entered the school of Christ in heaven. He himself shall be thy teacher, and there shalt thou study the volumes of eternity. The map of God's universe shall not only be thy chart, but thou hast also the telescope of heaven to assist thy unclouded||revenge, where are ye? By the power of truth, I see vision. The rays that emanate from the uncreated One you blasted, overthrown. And self, the demon self, shall for ever illumine thy pathway. Thou shalt no where art thou? Truth wages with thee a war of utter more need the light of the sun, nor moon, for God is extermination. Its language is, I am Jehovah. 1 am thy sun and shield. From seraphim and cherubim shalt thou learn the notes of heaven, while Gabriel

that I am. O man, what more canst thou comprehend of God than this-God is. And thou thyself a worm.