Chapter IV

CHAPTER IV.

AMOS LAWRENCE.

The Lawrence family—A poor boy—Early education—Delicate health—Obtains a situation at Dunstable—Returns to Groton—Becomes Mr. Brazer's apprentice—The variety store—An amateur doctor—Importance of Groton in "old times"—Responsibility of young Lawrence—Is put in charge of the business—High character—Drunkenness the curse of New England—Lawrence resolves to abstain from liquors and tobacco—His self-command—Completes his apprenticeship—Visits Boston—An unexpected offer—Enters into business in Boston—Is offered a partnership, but declines it—His sagacity justified—Begins business for himself—Commercial importance of Boston—Aid from his father—A narrow escape—lesson for life—Amos Lawrence's method of doing business—-An example for young men—His business habits—He leaves nothing unfinished over Sunday—Avoids speculation—His views upon the subject—Introduces double entry in book-keeping into Boston—His liberality to his debtors—Does not allow his business to master him—Property gained by some kinds of sacrifices not worth having—Forms a partnership with his brother Abbott—Business of the firm—They engage in manufactures—Safe business principles—A noble letter—Political opinions—His charities—Statement of his donations—Requests that no public acknowledgment of his gifts be made—Character as a merchant and a man—Advice to his son—His religious character—Loss of his health—His patience and resignation—The model American merchant.