He sought an interview with Martha and proposed that they should join the Society of Shakers . The converts of this sect are oftener driven within its hospitable gates by worldly misfortune than drawn thither by fanaticism , and are received without inquisition as to their motives . Martha , faithful still , had placed her hand in that of her lover and accompanied him to the Shaker village . Here the natural capacity of each , cultivated and strengthened by the difficulties of their previous lives , had soon gained them an important rank in the society , whose members are generally below the ordinary standard of intelligence . Their faith and feelings had in some degree become assimilated to those of their fellow-worshippers . Adam Colburn gradually acquired reputation not only in the management of the temporal affairs of the society , but as a clear and efficient preacher of their doctrines . Martha was not less distinguished in the duties proper to her sex . Finally , when the infirmities of Father Ephraim had admonished him to seek a successor in his patriarchal office , he thought of Adam and Martha , and proposed to renew in their persons the primitive form of Shaker government as established by Mother Ann . They were to be the father and mother of the village . The simple ceremony which would constitute them such was now to be performed . `` Son Adam and daughter Martha , '' said the venerable Father Ephraim , fixing his aged eyes piercingly upon them , `` if ye can conscientiously undertake this charge , speak , that the brethren may not doubt of your fitness . '' `` Father , '' replied Adam , speaking with the calmness of his character , `` I came to your village a disappointed man , weary of the world , worn out with continual trouble , seeking only a security against evil fortune , as I had no hope of good . Even my wishes of worldly success were almost dead within me . I came hither as a man might come to a tomb willing to lie down in its gloom and coldness for the sake of its peace and quiet . There was but one earthly affection in my breast , and it had grown calmer since my youth ; so that I was satisfied to bring Martha to be my sister in our new abode . We are brother and sister , nor would I have it otherwise . And in this peaceful village I have found all that I hope for -- all that I desire . I will strive with my best strength for the spiritual and temporal good of our community . My conscience is not doubtful in this matter . I am ready to receive the trust . ''
`` Thou hast spoken well , son XXXXX , '' said the father .
Adam Ann Colburn Ephraim Father Martha Shakers brethren fellow-worshippers preacher