PREFACE.
The work of compiling this biography has been one of peculiar
pleasure to the writer. His own affection and veneration for his
noble father have been greatly intensified by the close study of
this admirable character. There was a certain degree of
hesitation in undertaking the work, and considerable
embarrassment during its progress, for fear that the partiality
of the son would overdraw the admirable traits of the father.
Because of this embarrassment the author has, in many instances,
simply incorporated documents and opinions from others without
comment, feeling satisfied that this evidence would speak in
sufficiently forcible language. Dr. Mell was so often thrown into
controversy with his brethren in discussing great questions of
religious and secular importance that it has been difficult to
avoid personal allusions. It is hoped these may not be
misconstrued and open anew long buried unpleasant differences
which time and circumstances have healed and reconciled.
Another difficulty in the way of the writer has been the proper
selection of what should go into the book among so much that is
interesting and valuable.
The life portrayed in these pages was
varied and active. This man was distinguished as a preacher of
the Gospel, an educator, an author and a parliamentarian, and
much of interest could be written of him in each of these fields
of labor.
This book is now given to the public
with the hope that it may receive the approval of the friends and
admirers of Dr. Mell. And perhaps some young man struggling with
poverty, and endeavoring to rise in spite of adverse
surroundings, may derive lasting encouragement from these pages;
and be stimulated to follow the example of this noble Christian.
He died in the evening of his days and
his last strength was given to his Father’s work; like Paul,
he could say, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished
my course, I have kept the faith.”
P. H. MELL, JR.