man like him, with all his proper sentiments and sensibilities alive in him, must, in this state of existence, have something to believe and something to hope for; or else, as life is advancing to its close and parting, all is heart-sinking and oppression.  Depend upon it, whatever may be the mind of an old man, old age is only really happy, when, on feeling the enjoyments of this world pass away, it begins to lay a stronger hold on those of another.

Mr. Mason’s religious sentiments and feelings were the crowning glories of his character.  One, with the strongest motives to love and venerate him, and the best means of knowledge, says:—­

“So far as my memory extends, he always showed a deep conviction of the divine authority of the Holy Scriptures, of the institutions of Christianity, and of the importance of personal religion.  Soon after his residence in Boston, he entered the communion of the Church, and has continued since regularly to receive the Lord’s Supper.  From that time, he also habitually maintained domestic worship, morning and evening.  The death of two of his sons produced a deep impression upon his mind, and directed it in an increased degree to religious subjects.

“Though he was always reserved in the expression of religious feeling, still it has been very apparent, for several years, that his thoughts dwelt much upon his practical religious duties, and especially upon preparation for another world.  Within three or four years, he frequently led the conversation to such subjects; and during the year past, immediate preparation for his departure has been obviously the constant subject of his attention.  His expressions in regard to it were deeply humble; and, indeed, the very humble manner in which he always spoke of himself was most marked.

“I have observed, of late years, an increasing tenderness in his feelings and manner, and a desire to impress his family with the conviction that he would not remain long with them.  His allusions of this kind have been repeated, even when apparently in his usual health; and they indicated the current of his thoughts.

“He retained his consciousness till within a few hours of his death, and made distinct replies to every question put to him.  He was fully aware that his end was near; and in answer to the question, ’Can you now rest with firm faith upon the merits of your Divine Redeemer?’ he said, ’I trust I do, upon what else can I rest?’

“At another time, in reply to a similar question, he said, ’Of course, I have no other ground of hope.’  We did not often speak to him during those last three days, but had no doubt that he was entirely conscious of his state, knew that his family were all near, and that his mind was free from anxiety.  He could not speak with ease, and we were unwilling to cause him the pain of exertion.  His whole life, marked by uniform greatness, wisdom, and integrity,