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 Adam , '' said the father . `` God will bless thee in the office which I am about to resign . '' `` But our sister , '' observed the elder from Harvard . `` Hath she not likewise a gift to declare her sentiments ? '' Martha started and moved her lips as if she would have made a formal reply to this appeal . But , had she attempted it , perhaps the old recollections , the long-repressed feelings of childhood , youth and womanhood , might have gushed from her heart in words that it would have been profanation to utter there .
`` XXXXX has spoken , '' said she , hurriedly ; `` his sentiments are likewise mine . ''
Adam Ann Ephraim Father Harvard Martha lips profanation sex village