Sketches of the Life and Character of the Rev. Lemuel Haynes, A. M.: For Many Years Pastor of a Church in Rutland, Vt., and Late in Granville, New-York

by Timothy Mather Cooley

It is said that some time after the publication of his sermon on the text, "Thou shall not surely die," two reckless young men having agreed together to try his wit, one of them said—" Father Haynes, have you heard the good news ?"—" No," said Mr. Haynes, "what is it?"—''It is great news, indeed," said the other, "and, if true, your business is done."—" What is it?" again inquired Mr. Haynes. "Why," said the first, "the devil is dead." In a moment the old gentleman replied, lifting up both his hands and placing them on the heads of the young men, and in a tone of solemn concern, "Oh, poor fatherless children! what will become of you?"

This is funny!