Excerpt from the memoirs of John Brooks

I look back on my humble life with humility. I am sensible of many imperfections that cling to me. I know that the present is neither the season nor the place to begin the preparation for death. Our whole life is given us for this great object, and the work of preparation should be early commenced, and be never relaxed till the end of our days. To God I can appeal that it has been my humble endeavor to serve Him with sincerity; and wherein I have failed, I trust in His grace to forgive. I now rest my soul on the mercy of the adorable Creator, through the only mediation of His Son, our Lord.

— from the memoirs of John Brooks

• John Brooks (1752–1825) was the 11th governor of Massachusetts (1816–1823) and one of the last Federalist party members to be elected to office in the United States. A successful doctor, he is also known for his heroism and exemplary service during the American Revolution as a member of the Continental Army and of the Massachusetts state militia. Among the first to respond to the warnings of Paul Revere and other nighttime riders, Brooks commanded a Reading (Mass.) company at the Battles of Lexington and Concord.