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TRACTS
AMERICAN TRACT
literal
VOL.
SOCIETY.
Scries
Ill,
PRINTED BY THE
AMERICAN TRACT SOCIETY

150
NASSAU-STREET, NEW YORK.
CONTENTS.
VOL.
III.
Pages.
No.
73. Fashionable
74. Great Effects

ter,
12
Amusements,
from
Little Causes.
By Rev. Ebenezer Por16
D. D.,
By Rev. Hugh
75.
William Kelly, or The Happy Christian.
76.
To-day,
77.
12
The History of a Bible,
The Conversion of Abigail Hutchinson. By President Edwards, 8
44
The Young Cottager. By Rev. Legh Richmond,
20
Stowell,
78.
79.
85.
The Danger of Delay,

The Seaman's Spy-glass,
The Sin and Danger of Despising a Preached Gospel,
By Rev. John Newton,
Eliza Cunningham.
On the Lord's Supper. By Rev. Henry Grove,
The Watchmaker and his Family. By Rev. C. Malan,
86.
Am
80.
81.
82.
83.
84.
.20
24
Self-deceived
20
87. Conversation in a Boat
between two Seamen,
89.
The Shipmates. A Supplement to No. 87,

The Life and Conversion of the Dairyman.
90.
A Word
88.
12
20
.28
24
By Rev. Daniel
16
Tyerman,
91. Prayer
in Season,
and Family Religion.
By Rev.
Benj. Trumbull, D. D., 20
95.
The Forgiving African,

The great Question Answered. By Rev. Andrew
The Non-conformist's Release,
Now or Never. By Rev. Richard Baxter,
96.
The
92.
93.
94.
4
Fuller,
4
8
Sailor's Friend,
The New
99.
The
8
16
Birth,
Benefits of Sanctified Afflictions,
20
.20
97. History of Old Shusco,

98.
.16
CONTENTS.
Pages.
No.
100.
The Wedding Garment,
101.
The True
102. Pay-night.
103. Every
Believer Bountiful,
Man
Saturday Evening Dialogue,
the Friend or the
104.
The
105.
The Happy Waterman,
Enemy
...
...
of Christ,
12
4
32
Usefulness of Tracts,
or "
16
Honesty the best Policy,"
TXo. T3,
FASHIONABLE AMUSEMENTS.
The
following arguments have frequently been adduced
in favor of fashionable
1
That they are
amusements.
not forbidden in Scripture,
and must
consequently be innocent.
2.
That mB-ny professed Christians indulge
3.
That,
when
not carried to excess,
means of relaxation, and give

and religious
4.
in them.
they become a
additional relish to retirement
duties.
Some, not altogether
satisfied with these
arguments,
They
adopt a more specious kind of reasoning.
allow and
apparently lament the unhappy tendency of fashionable
amusements, but conclude that
the evil is past all remedy.
People, say they, will have their recreations.
Should they
be persuaded to relinquish these, they would probably adopt

others
are
still
To the
many
which
more extravagant and

first of these
set
it
is
replied, that there
things not particularly forbidden in Scripture,
are, nevertheless, contrary to the obvious spirit of
precepts.
its
hurtful.
arguments
We
are not forbidden, in so
our neighbor's house on
fire
many
words, to
yet nobody imagines that
the wilful perpetration of such a deed
is
no crime.
We
reason, in this case, from the general tenor of Scripture,
which requires us
our neighbor.
in
to respect the
property and happiness of
Precisely so must
which the Scriptures are not
meant
that the Scriptures should
name every crime

VOL.
III.
of which
we
reason in other cases,
explicit.
men would
1=^
It
was never
particularly specify and
be guilty.
book
which should do
this,
would be
ill
calculated to answer the
purposes of divine revelation, as few would find time to read

its
contents.
amusements
If fashionable
existed, in their present form,
during the time of our Saviour and of his apostles, there
no
evidence of their being practised
by Christians.
It
is
will
scarcely be pretended that Paul and his associates in the

If they frequented
ministry were fond of cards or dancing.

the theatre,
was only
it
whh
could not be met
to
preach the Gospel
elsewhere.
Their
to
such as
by imi-
disciples,
tating their holy example, prevented the necessity of partic-
The argument
ular precepts.
in question
no particular importance, unless
is,
amusements are not forbidden by the general

But
ture.
in
its
it
therefore, of
be proved that these
it
will hereafter be fully
tenor of Scrip,
shown, that Scripture
obvious import does forbid them.
The
many
second argument, that
indulge in
fashionable amusements,
pecially by the young.
But
if
is
professed Christians
often resorted
there are
many
to, es-
professed
who indulge in these amusements, there are, at

many who deem such conduct inconsistent with the
Christians
least, as
Both parties cannot be right.

coodemn, the other cannot be author-
obligations of the Gospel.
If one
autliorized to
is
followed,
us back
we must
to the
may be safely
And this leads
Before the example of either
ized to approve.
ascertain
its
correctness.
general tenor of Scripture, as the most sure
and obvious guide.

Are, then, the examples and sentiments of Christians to
be disregarded
in mind,
that all
By
no means.
It
must, however, be kept
are not the friends of Jesus
who have
so
named themselves: that the examples and sentiments of

those only,
whose
be esteemed of
lives prove
much
them genuinely
account in
this matter.
pious, should
Can
this
be
generally said of such as indulge in fashionable amuse-
merits
they exhibit conformity to Him who was meek

Have they " set their affections on
?
Do
and lowly of heart
things above, and not on things on the earth ?"
giving " diligence to

"
lest
make
a promise being
should seem
to
Christ dwell in
fest that
come
left
their calling
of entering into
short of
them richly
it
in all
spirit
any of them
word of
the
wisdom ?"
they are " renewed in the
that they continue "instant in
rest,
Does "
?"
Are they
and election sure,"
Is
mani-
it
of their minds;"
prayer;" that they
live
"as
strangers and pilgrims upon earth ;" that they are " blameless
and harmless, the sons of God without rebuke, amidst
among whom they shine

Are they always ready to give of
advance the cause of Christ ? Are they
a crooked and perverse generation,

as lights in the world ?"
their substance to
strictly attentive to the
proper seasons of devotion
Do
the
duties of family religion suffer no interruption from their
amusements
Do
they show themselves
serious and improving conversation
to
be pleased with
Do
they uniformly
exhibit that piety to God, and that good will to
are the surest
marks of
Christianity
man, which
Are they
active in
promoting those great schemes of beneficence which characterize the present era,
the
and
afford so animating a proof that
knowledge of the Lord
is
them, they have no claim

After
all, it is
to
With-
much we may
respect
soon to
out such proofs of piety, however
fill
the earth
authority as Christians.
not true, that a comparatively large
num-
ber of Christians do approve of fashionable amusements.
We
are persuaded that a vast majority of Christian parents
entirely restrain their children from taking part in these

diversions, or grant the indulgence with reluctance
that pious youth generally turn from
The
third
argument
less apparent confidence.
is
them with
less frequently urged,
He
and
disgust.
and with
surely betrays great igno-
rance of the nature of true religion,
who regards
its
duties
Wretched indeed
as a melancholy or wearisome business.
must be the
state of that soul,
which seeks
be relieved
to
from the delightful exercises of devotion, by the unsatisfyReligion a task
ing pleasures of the world.

find
so,
it
much
have
never experienced
its
reason
transforming power.
amusements give
Besides, if these
retirement and religious

in
duties,
them uniformly tempt
such
seldom
same
the fact,
is
fail to
is
is
Those who
conclude that they have
to
why
additional relish to
does a
little
experience
excessive indulgence
to
notorious.
few
That
visits to the theatre
The
create a desire for constant attendance.
true of cards and dancing.
found, that the person,
who
is
In the
mean
proceeding in
time,
it
is
this course, is
daily less disposed to the right performance of religious du-
The argument
ties.
fact.
It
is
therefore false, both in theory and in
contradicts those parts of Scripture
which require
Christians to separate themselves from the world, that they
may
live
life
cisterns
Fashionable amusements send
of piety.
which can hold no water."
Indulgence in these amusements
is
as a relaxation from secular concerns.
mechanic have
the
men
the " Fountain of living waters," to " broken
away from
little
objectionable, even
The farmer and
the
occasion for the exercise of dancing
mind of the student
is
polluted and distracted, rather
than refreshed, by plays and cards

that either of the three unfits
him
and the me^'chant
finds,
for sferious business.
In-
deed, the time usually allotted to these diversions, together
with the violence of one of them, and in
many
finement of
the long con-
all,
persons to a single room, render the plea
of health or useful relaxation entirely chimerical.
There are some who, when forced
to
admit the weak-
ness of these arguments, take refuge in a fourth.
may credit
eral
their words,
none are more desirous
reformation in morals than themselves
to see
If
we
a gen-
but they are
pleased to add, "
As
things are, people will have diversions
Persuade them
suited to their taste.
and they will adopt others
however
this plea,
it
may
still
relinquish these,
to
more exceptionable."
But
be abused by others, none can
They cannot
justly urge in excuse for themselves.
resolve to practise one sin, lest by
its
surely
omission they should
who
feel that
amusements are exceptionable, themselves
refrain
other sins
fall into
these
from them
effort to
let
Let
greater.
all,
then,
them make a serious and persevering
produce the reformation of others.
The
that all
and
still
Scriptures allow of no excuse for sin.
men,
in all situations
themselves entirely
we must
do
tainly as
God
it
unpunished."
we must
instantly renounce
resolutely and at all hazards.
is
true, " the
requires
Prove any pursuit con-
to his service.
trary to his requisitions, and
God
and circumstances, consecrate
For as
it
cer-
workers of iniquity shall not go
This argument, then, founded on the com-
parative innocence of fashionable amusements, must also be
given up.
It
cannot abide the
Having considered,
trial
at length,
favor of fashionable amusements,

tively, that these
of the judgment day.
some of the arguments
we proceed
amusements are not
to
show
in
posi-
consistent with the
general tenor of the Scriptures.

1.
many
They are expensive.
How many
hundreds, nay,
how
thousands of dollars, are sometimes wasted in one
night at the theatre, at the card-table, or at a ball

fashionable amusements,
extravagant dress and useless ornaments

Scripture demand, that
our other
how much must be expended
we
In
in
But reason and
devote our property, as well as
talents, to the service of the
Redeemer.
He
re-
quires us to relieve the wants of the poor, especially of the
members of his spiritual body. All holy beings are pleased,

when we are liberal in promoting the cause of piety. And
Q
if
we
of
affliction
many sons and daughters

how many institutions formed to
only look around us, hoVv
do
we
behold
meliorate the present condition of man, and to open to him

the gates of immortality
pecuniary aid
for
Christian,
save the
for
how many
that deserve and call
Will a generous individual, will a
knowingly spend
that at the theatre,
which might
of one perishing for want of bread, or suffering
life
want of a comfortable habitation
common humanity
man
Will any
of
be expensive in his amusements, while
millions of perishing heathen are extending their hands to
him
Book which makes known the way to everGod forbid. Diversions so purchased, are
for the only
lasting life
purchased
at
an
When-
infinite cost.
great, shall stand before
the dead, small and
God, and the books shall be opened,
the heathen will rise up in judgment, and

the profession and
condemn both
parsimony that denied them the
the
Gospel.
2. Fashionable amusements occasion loss of time.
And
who, that considers the consequence of such a loss, would
not avoid
with religious care
it
nity to do good
to
friends and fellow-men
it
may
connected with eternity, that
Here
value.
its
left to
all
it
worlds.
It
spirit is
only
is
we form any
calculation fails
contemplate and wonder at what
One immortal
affords
be, to extend
But
lent efforts to distant nations.
of
Time
an opportu-
promote the piety and happiness of
it
our benevo-
when time
and the mind
is
can never grasp.
of more value than ten thousand
will survive the dissolution of the stars;
will enjoy, in future,
is
tolerable estimate
more than
all finite creatures
and
have ever
enjoyed, or suffer more than they all have ever suffered.
Yet
it
depends on the improvement of time, whether
our fellow-men realize
this eternal
we and
weight o^ joy, or of suf-
fering.
Much
time
is
spent in extraordinary preparation for
fashionable
amusements
much
in frivolous conversation
the way, and at the place of meeting

reflection
so spent
used
and remark,
is
amusement
after the
mind
so used as to unfit both for serious
Amusements prevent
3.
By
plishments.
those only
it
these, society
its
and
all
generally
is
employment.
these,
we may
of valuable accomwe understand
must allow
These are acqui-
substantial comforts
would be
Deprived of
be desirable.
would want not only
civilization,
manknow-
and understanding, the
to
and
lasting
include propriety of
ledge of business, habits of industry, etc.
but
not only not
which give innocent pleasure, are
which
Time
is past.
is
or body, but
the acquisition
ners, a well-cultivated taste
sitions
by
in idle
valuable accomplishments,
Among
useful.
and much
worse than wasted, because
for the benefit of either
present elegancies,
its
and Christianity, and science,
are not required to engage in the
Though
world.
lost to the
same
all
may
calling, but
innocently select that which best comports with their cir-
cumstances and natural dispositions
yet none are excused
from virtuous industry, from qualifying themselves

possible
to
do
moth
way
this,
to act
transgresses the
to society,
a disgrace
a useful part in
command
in
Whoever
every
refuses
of God, becomes a
and should be considered as an enemy, and
to the
being useful.
life.
human
Our Saviour aimed
species.
His disciples did the same.
It is
at
the glory
of Jehovah himself, that the exercise of his perfections pro-
motes the beauty and happiness of the universe.
Ascertain
the voluntary efforts of an individual to do good, and
have the foundation
for all his just
demands upon
you
the esteem
and gratitude of men, and what especially renders him

lovely in the sight of God.
If these observations are just,
amusements hinder the

ments.
it
follows that fashionable
acquisition of valuable accomplish-
They consume much
time,
which might be em-
ployed in attaining important acquisitions
and conversation
thoughts
lead to useless
and contribute
lower the
to
standard of excellence.
It
will not be pretended that the theatre is a school of
good manners.
People attend the theatre, ostensibly, for
the sake of being taught the customs of other ages
warmed by
the secret
tion
the rehearsal of noble actions
mazes of
may be
the
human
heart.
better obtained in other
of the theatre
is
of being
and of learning
But
all this instruc-
The
ways.
instruction
without system, generally foreign to our
circumstances, and always connected with
much
that is
exceptionable in language, sentiment, and manners.
Cards answer no valuable end whatever.
No man
can
advocate them in any view, except as a means of banishing

the tedium of protracted visits
for the
ignorance and
folly of
or as a convenient covering
some,
who
nevertheless would
be thought people of consequence.
Most persons
from business
There
cle.
here.
It
is
is,
feel the necessity
and are disposed
to
of occasional relaxation
seek
it
in the social cir-
however, no necessity o^ wasting time, even
not difficult to
render such intercourse, not
merely a relaxation, but the means of increasing knowledge

and
virtue.
tians,
Accordingly, the apostle has enjoined
it
on Christo
do all
amusements
be, in
whether they eat or drink, or whatsoever they do,
to the glory
of God.
It is
not
their nature, harmless, or in
enough
that
some degree
beneficial
they
should unite the most valuable improvement with innocent

pleasure.
The Gospel
requires, that all
talents to the uttermost.
men improve
Such conduct honors
law, and exhibits a faint image of the moral beauty of

as he
came from
glorified
mended
the
hand of
his Creator.
and thus Christianity
to the
world than
it
is
more
their
the divine
man
Thus God
eflfectually
is
recom-
could be by volumes, written
with the professed design to recommend
it.
But
it
is
obvi-
FASHIONABLE AMUSEIVIENTS.
ous, that fashionable
amusements do not combine these
ad-
Their occupying the place of others which might
vantages.
combine them,
is
another melancholy proof that they hinder
the acquisition of valuable accomplishments.
They
4.
mifit the
mind for
The
import.
favor of God.
greatest object of
Without
We
religious duties.
bring this accusation, without having
human
life is, to
his favor, our natural
talents,
our enjoyments and privileges,
riches,
and influence can give,
all
do not
considered
first
its
secure the
and acquired
which
birth,
will serve but to
and
aggravate
That which entices from God, or

communion with him, threatens our dearest interFor " what shall it profit a man, if he gain the whole
ests.
world, and lose his own soul ? or what shall a man give in
our future wretchedness.

unfits for
exchange
for his soul
?"
Fashionable amusements
duties,
by diverting
unfit the
attention
its
mind
for religious
Here any
from them.
reference to the peculiar doctrines of the Gospel, and especially to the
momentous
topics of death, judgment,
tion, too,
insipid
must be avoided
and painful.
it
afflicted,
The same
Revivals of religion, though they uniformly
promote friendship and social intercourse, never
amusements
into disrepute.
fail to
bring
In short, their warmest
advocate must allow, that their obvious effect
mind from
true of
is
manifest peculiar anxiety to secure the salvation
of their souls.
these
mourn
to
or from other causes greatly
usually refuse attendance.
who
eter-
would render the passing scene
Accordingly, persons called
the recent loss of friends,
those
and
Serious reflec-
nity, is proscribed as altogether impertinent.
is to
divert the
the most important duties of religion.
Now, whatever keeps any
object uniformly out of view,
creates indifference to that object.
Of this
character, very few are entirely ignorant.
assuage grief,
VOL. Ill,
we
trait in the
labor to produce forgetfulness of
human
When we
its
would
cause.
FASHIONABLE AMUSEMENTS
JO
When we
would excite men
we
to
them
the principal object of remark.
view
their
generally obtains
Religion
respect, materially different from other

its
pursuits,
repeat the exhibition
purpose.
his
we exhibit
we make
Whoever does this,
worthy
to
them
nature and importance out of sight, and
it
this
in
not,
is
Keep
employments.
ceases to
interest.
amusements
Fashionable
only
not
thought and conversation, but they
fill
banish
the
religious
mind with an
inordinate love of those things which reason and Scripture
pronounce " vanity and vexation of
men have
suits,
standard
their
unwillingly
of excellence
is
fall
short of
He who
esteemed by
attains to his standard, will be envied or
who
In most pur-
spirit."
of excellence.
all
But when the standard
it.
low, or the objects which create emulation
insignificant and hurtful, eagerness of pursuit
of the most unhappy consequences.
It
The man comes
the moral faculties.
productive
is
degrades and
to
vitiates
be not only indif-
ferent to religious duties, but frequently to despise them, as
unworthy of comparison with the
by which he
trifles
is
occupied.
It is
almost needless
to add, that these
culiarly applicable to balls.
here procure flattery, while real worth

If cards
petition,
is
overlooked.
and plays do not present an equal
they chain the mind
Promptness
pernicious.
remarks are pe-
few useless attainments
to objects
in the
field for
equally
com-
trifling
and
ceremonies and small talk
of the card-table, elegance of form, exquisite art in putting
on that gaudy finery which
and decent
attire,
mortal beings.
those
who
is
little
attention
from im-
Yet such are the subjects which
statedly
engage
in these
must have immense influence

acter.
the very opposite of modest
certainly merit
Can he who
is
in
interest
amusements, and which
forming their moral char-
dazzled by these
trifles,
and steadily
jj
bent on excelling in them, be at the same time possessed of
meek and
the
prayerful spirit of Christianity
claims
this spirit, all
Without
performance of any duty
to the right
are totally groundless.
Thus we have showed,
that fashionable
amusements are
not consistent with the 'general tenor of the Scriptures
they are expensive
that they occasion loss of time
that
that
they hinder the acquisition of valuable accomplishments,
and
unfit the
mind
for
communion with God.
Other argu-
ments might be brought, but they are thought unnecessary.

It is
deemed a
sure, that
life
influence of fashionable
or health.
whether these early deaths are
And
among
shall
to
many
of
Let him see

of instan-
not, in multitudes
some vain amusement as
we go on
Let him
of early
females,
are from the m.ost respectable families.
ces, to be traced to
list
amusements upon these
deaths by consumption, especially
plea-
Does any one doubt the
look at the melancholy and daily increasing
whom
any
sufficient reason for relinquishing
hazards
it
their cause.
witness in silence this waste of
health in blooming youth, yea, this sad exposure of their

lives, so
to
precious to their friends, so inconceivably precious
themselves as probationers for eternity
that fashionable
amusements do
We
have seen
more than
infinitely
this
they pervert our talents, alienate the soul from God, and thus
prepare
it
for
for
it is
But, saith our Saviour, "if
aggravated ruin.
thy right eye offend thee, pluck

profitable for thee that
it
out,
and cast
it
from thee
one of thy members should
perish,
and not that thy whole body should be cast
And
thy right hand offend thee, cut
thee';
if
for
it
is
it off,
profitable for thee that
into hell.
and cast
it
from
one of thy members
should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast
into hell."
Reader, you have a soul of

soul be wantonly sacrificed
infinite value.
Will you
Shall this
for a single
mo-
12
ment hazard its loss, for the sake of vain amusements ?

Oh beware of so unwise a choice, lest destruction come
!
"I
am
to deliver.
well satisfied," writes the Rev. John
a young lady, " that

sinful,
and there be none
like a whirlwind,
upon you
there
if
is
any practice
attendance on the playhouse
is
Newton
to
in the land
properly and emi-
Theatres are fountains and means of vice ; I

nently so.
had almost said, in the same manner and degree as the
ordinances of the Gospel are means of grace ; and I can
hardly think there
is
dare to be seen there,

tre
were properly
a Christian upon earth,
who would
the nature and effects of the thea-
if
set before
them.
Dr. Witherspoon, of
Scotland, has written an excellent piece upon the stage, or

rather against
it,
which
wish every person who makes the
God, had an opportunity of perusing.
least pretence to fear
cannot judge
much more
train of dissipations
favorably of
all
by which the god of
the innumerable
this
world blinds
the eyes of multitudes, lest the light of the glorious Gospel
should shine in upon them.
What an
awful aspect upon
the present times have such texts as Isa. 22
3-6
James 4:4.
12-14
Amos
wish- you, therefore, not to plead
for any of them, but use all your influence to make them
shunned as pesthouses, and dangerous nuisances to precious
souls ; especially, if you know of any who you hope in the
main are seriously disposed, who yet venture themselves
in
those purlieus of Satan, endeavor earnestly and faithfully

to
undeceive them.
The
time
is
short
eternity at the door.
And, blessed be God the Gospel opens a source of purer,

We are invited
sweeter, and more substantial pleasures.
to communion with God, and to share in the theme of an!
gels,
and the songs of heaven."

PUBLISHED BY THE AMERICAN TRACT SOCIETY.
]Vo. 74.
GREAT EFFECTS
FROM
LITTLE CAUSES.
BY REV. EBENEZER TORTER,
One hand
ed
in
did the deed, in one
moment; but hundreds of
Behold how great a matter a
Every
It is
of
child
knows
little fire
that a spark of fire
Yet a spark of
fire
often
of extensive utility or mischief.

or the
flint
dead.
powder
the
match, spreads the
spark of
in
Ill,
is
James 3
is
5.
becomes the instrument

spark of
field
fire,
from the
of battle with the

to
a magazine of
walls of wood and stone,
and the labor of years, yield
2*
little thinor.
or, if let alone, dies
communicated
moment massy
pride of war,
VOL.
fire
have been involv-
4.
kindleth.
extinguished by a drop of water
itself.
milh'ous
page
the consequences through sixty centuries. See.
D. D.
to
the
;;
GREAT EFFECTS
frightful explosion, and, scattered in a
spread terror and destruction.

closet,
thousand fragments,
spark of
or on the roof of a building
their slumbers, to see their dwelling with all
The
in a blaze.
fire lights in
a family start from
its
contents,
flames kindle upon the nearest buildings
the neighborhood
is
involved in the spreading ruin; and,
behold, a city is laid in ashes
The text suggests one leading thought, which

now clearly before your minds
Great effects result from little causes.
I trust is
Let us attend
to the
illustration of this truth,
and
its
application to practical purposes.
The
extent of the
kingdom of providence, and the conis a subject with which
nection of minute with great events,
When
our duty and happiness are deeply concerned.

speak of causes and
effects, let
me
not be understood to
exclude, or overlook the supreme agency of that Almighty
Hand which
created, and
which controls
things.
all
What
are called the laws of nature, are nothing distinct from the
divine will, operating in a uniform manner.
the proposition suggested
then,
by the
text,
In support of
we derive an argument,
from the general doctrine of a Divine Providence.
The argument
intelligent agent,
is
this
God
created the world.
he must have created
it
for
As an
To
some end.
secure the accomplishment of that end, he must govern
and
his
government,
must extend
teaches.
be effectual, must be universal.
things; to
all
is
feeds the
it
It
So the Bible
things.
The sparrow, though only equal
a farthing,
He
to little
to
in
value
to
half
not beneath the care of the great Jehovah.
young ravens, and
clothes the lilies in beauty,
and numbers even the hairs of our heads.

with ultimate reference
So reason teaches.
to the
This he does
great objects of his kingdom.
very limited acquaintance with the
connection of causes and effects must satisfy us,
that, in the
FROM LITTLE CAUSES.
government of Providence, great things often depend on
A moment
small things.
yet centuries are

rears
head
stately
its
The
dust.
The mountain
its
Here navies
consists of drops.
to its source,
it
that
composed of grains of
to the clouds, is
river that rolls
lowed backward
now
seems scarcely worth our regard
made up of moments.
majestic tide to the ocean,
on
float
waters
its
becomes now a
but
fol-
rivulet,
and
a spring, bubbling from the rocks of some distant
region.
The
which the world has witnessed, have
greatest events
resulted from a combination of concurrent causes, each of
which might seem altogether unimportant
Take
The tongue
the text.
is
little
" a world of iniquity, and set on
We
in itself.
the subject, to illustrate which the apostle uttered
member
yet
it
may
prove
the course of nature."
fire
need not draw examples from the monstrous folly of
duellists,
when
so
That
little
many examples
men, and even
rational, sober
member speaks
the Christian church.
a word.
between two friends commences;

other tongues, increases
becomes coldness, then jealousy,
the officiousness of tale-bearers,
mischievous
effect,
till
partial alienation
by the whispering of
Their own passions, the
then enmity.
among
are to be found
in
partialities
act with
of friends,
combined and
a trivial misunderstanding, which

in
one minute, becomes
an incurable and ruinous controversy.
Suppose the parties
might have been amicably adjusted
to
church
be pastors in the
ministers of a nation
and
suppose
see
how
them
to
be prime
the consequences rise
into incalculable importance.
To change
beginning of
The breach
the figure, and adopt that of

strife
in a
is
as
when one
Solomon
letteth
forth
"
dam, which might have been covered with
a man's hand, was neglected, and occasioned a deluge.

fiy or
an atom
The
water."
may
set in
motion a train of intermediate
GREAT EFFECTS
4
causes, which
Any
shall
produce a revolution
in a
kingdom.
one of a thousand incidents might have cut off Alex-
ander of Greece
But
in his cradle.
Alexander had died
if
had lived a single day longer than he
in infancy, or
might have put another face on
all
did,
it
the following history of
the world.
A spectacle-maker's boy, amusing himself in

by holding two glasses between
shop,
his father's
his finger
and his
thumb, and varying their distance, perceived the weathercock of the church
spire, opposite to
much
ordinary, and apparently
him,
This excited the wonder of the
down.
experiments
to additional
much
larger than
nearer, and turned upside

father,
and these resulted
and led him
in that aston-
ishing instrument, the telescope, as invented by Galileo, and
perfected by Herschel.
It is
a fact
commonly known,
which guide the thousands of

system, were suggested at
that the laws of gravitatioji,
rolling worlds in the planetary
first to
the
mind of Newton by
ihe falling of an apple.
The
art
of printing shows from what casual incidents

scheme of Providence
the most magnificent events in the
may
result.
enough
to
Time was when
princes were scarcely rich
purchase a copy of the Bible.
tager in Christendom
"
Who
man amusing
is
rich
would have thought
enough
Now, every
cot-
to possess this treasure.
that the simple circumstance of
himself by cutting a few letters on the bark
of a tree, and impressing them on paper, was intimately connected with the mental illumination of the world ?"
Great
effects
may
Let us pursue the
by
result from
little
causes.
illustration of this truth, as furnished
facts in sacred history.
"The woman
also unto her
how
took of the fruit, and did eat; and gave
husband with
small was this action
her,
;
and he did eat."
but
it
In
itself,
ruined a icorld !
One
FROM LITTLE CAUSES.

hand did the deed,
have been involved
moment! but hundreds of millions
in one
consequences, through sixty cen-
in the
turies !
A
grew
spark of envy, in the bosoms of Joseph's brethren,
and led them to aim at the destrucHere commenced a series of events, which
into settled enmity,
tion of his life.
occasioned the removal of Jacob's family
which gave complexion

all
to the affairs
to
Egypt, and
of two nations through
subsequent periods.
The
seed of Jacob,
seventy persons.
who came down
During
to
Egypt, were only
their residence in that land, they
The king
multiplied to six hundred thousand fighting men.
of the country, alarmed at this increase, issued a barbarous

edict, that
every^Hebrew male
its birth.
To
child should be destroyed at
avoid the execution of this decree, a
mother, having concealed her

resolved to
commit
Hebrew
little
son for three months,
the babe to the
mercy of Providence,
with no protection from the elements and the monsters of the
Soon a stranger passed by
Nile, but an ark of bulrushes.

that
way,
stranger
moment
woman, whose
just at the
was
forsaken infant
who might
a princess,
that the babe wept.
too,
the only person in
safely indulge this tenderness.
The
princess
know what
she was doing.
Egypt
was
child
saved, and adopted as the son of the king's daughter.

tle did that
That
heart could feel for a poor,
Lit-
That weep-
ing infant, thus rescued from death, was to be the minister

of divine vengeance
to the
kingdom of her haughty father

was to write
;
was
to be the amanuensis of the Holy Ghost
five
books of the sacred canon, containing the only authentic
history of the creation and
become a distinguished
first
ages of the world
legislator, deliverer,
was
and guide
to
to
the church of God.
Joshua's victorious
arrested.
march
into
His army were compelled
Canaan was suddenly

to fly before their ene-
GREAT EFFECTS
mies
was consternation and
all
matter
What was
distress.
man, out of the twelve
single
tribes,
the
had em-
bezzled three articles from the spoils of Jericho, contrary

to
Achan committed
Divine command.
"and wrath
thing,
fell
upon
all
trespass in this
the congregation of Israel."
Restrained by the energy of Joshua's authority and example, Israel prospered
but his death was followed by a
rapid decline of piety and morals.
Micah
tiousness,
By
pieces of silver.
In this period of licen-
from his mother eleven hundred
stole
a process which exhibits one of the
strangest traits in the
human
character, namely, the con-
Micah came
nection between depravity and superstition,

the resolution to appease his conscience,
A vagrant
stolen silver into a god.
Judah became
his priest.
From
by making
Levite from Bethlehem

small beginning, idol-
this
atry spread like a leprosy through the nation.
God was
extinguished
to
this
The
fear of
and such profligacy of manners
ensued, even in the beloved tribe of Benjamin, that a peaceable stranger could
One
safety.
these impieties
brother
and
men were
not lodge
among them one
night in
of the most dire calamities which flowed from
was
civil
war.
Brother was armed against
in three desperate battles, sixty-five thousand
slain.
" Behold,
how
great a matter a
little fire
kindleth."
The
them
Israel,
and
sons of Eli
made themselves
This negligence
not.
in the
vile,
and he restrained
judge and the
proved a source of the deepest anguish
his country.
These lawless
priest of
to
himself
having access
sons,
sacred utensils of the tabernacle, carried
away
the
to the
Ark of
the covenant into the camp, to ensure victory over the Philistines.
God was angry Israel was

and the Ark was taken.
slaughter
heard what his sons had done.
smitten with a terrible
In the
mean time Eli
His heart trembled.
Blind
with age, and bending under the decrepitude of ninety-eight
FROM LITTLE CAUSES.

years, he tottered
away to
down
the gate of the city, and sat
rumor from the army.

Oh, should the Ark be taken, the glory of Israel would be
With what profane triumph would it be told in Gath,
gone
might catch the
there, that he
first
and published in the

is
heard
Eli?
"What meaneth
man
poor old
is
God
is
was
out of
" Israel
son ?"
is
From
all
for breath
"
among
From
what
the
is
Ark
taken :"
back-
that day, the ruin of Shiloh
that fatal day, their candlestick
the
till
his heart sunk, he fainted, fell
is
the people ;
and
with composure,
was
was removed
place, and their city dwindled to nothing.
In the sequel of the Jewish history,
of Gath
where
Jied before the Philis-
was announced, " the Ark of God
much
too
its
Eli heard
taken."
ward, and died.

dated.
army
the noise of this tumult?" said the
Hophni and Phinehas, are dead
dreadful event
that
the
there hath been a great slaughter
thy two sons,
OF
my
Presently a tumult
Askelon.
come from
messenger, panting
to the
there done,
tines
streets of
a messenger has
came
forth,
day
we
read that Goliath
after day, and, with
an attitude of
daring impiety, challenged the Hebrews and their God.
The men
war were struck with dismay, and
of
the captains
of Israel, with trembling hearts, and at a cautious distance,
At length, a stripling shepherd,

was supposed, for the fatigues of
looked at the mighty man.

the son of Jesse, unfit, as
war, was sent
to the
camp on
common
errand, to carry
provisions and inquire for the welfare of his brethren.
permission of the king, he entered the

liath.
Clad
in
no armor but
lists to fight
faith in the
Lord of
hosts,
using no weapons but a sling and a stone, the giant
Thus
common
which had
By
with Go-
fell
and
be-
lain
perhaps
useless and unnoticed for ages in the bottom of a
common
army of
the Phi-
fore him.
stone,
brook, slew the champion, and routed the

listines,
tion
and decided a
were suspended.
battle
on which the interests of a na-
GREAT EFFECTS
Q
Great
effects
may
particulars, because
with reference
causes.
little
illustration of this truth in so
wish
to
impress
it
may
many-
on every individual,
to the practical instruction
This instruction
it.
from
result
have drawn out the
which
results
from
be included under two general
remarks.
First. It
We
is
a solemn thing to
world.
live in this
Connected as we
are a part of a complex system.
are with our fellow-beings and with eternity, every action,
every circumstance pertaining
our character, however
to
apparently indifferent, becomes absolutely important.
If the
history of our race, in past ages, proves this, no less does the
own
course of events within our
world have been actors.
We
observation.
winding up of a drama,
lately witnessed the
Little did
in
first
its
the
all
authors anti-
cipate the awful lesson of instruction to mankind,
progress has exhibited.
have but
which
which
few licentious men, having
its
or-
ganized the principles of anarchy in the heart of Europe,
blew the
fire in
poured out
its
rivers of flame, to
was
all
archy
Europe was shaken.
that
mar
among
I
with
efforts to
fatal success,
Political
it.
was
fair,
it
and
Every mon-
and religious sys-
the concussion, and
felt
do mischief are wont
started from the mountain's
The river forms a

The rock that is
summit by a
single hand, rushes
it
own weight, but a thousand hands could

back.
The mischief which Jej'oboam did in
downward by
it
be attended
runs.
depravity.
broader and deeper current as
Israel lasted
to
because they cooperate with the strong,
downward course of human
On
burst into
the mighty ruins of this sweeping desolation.
grant that
not roll
that
all
flourishing around
tems, reared by the labor of ages,

fell
it
Like Etna's boiling furnaces,
consume
in
when
secret for half a century,
a tremendous explosion.
its
through twenty generations.
the contrary,
it
is
easy
to
name
those
who have been
FROM LITTLE CAUSES,
Who
illustrious benefactors of the world.
can estimate the
amount of good accomplished by Moses, by Nehemiah, by

?
Who can pretend to determine, till it is
revealed in eternity, the extent of good produced by the
Paul, by Luther
preaching of Whitefield
or the
number of immortal
souls
have been saved from eternal
that will be found at last to
death by the instrumentality of Baxter's Saints^ Rest?
at
may
view every preacher of the Gospel
this
which must
the consequences
nay,
at the
word or
In
w^ll tremble
result from
labors;
his
consequences which may result from a single
action.
With awful emphasis,
then,
it
may
be said
of the preacher, whose doctrine or life is habitually corrupt, " Good had it been for that man, if he had not been
born."
But admitting
that
a solemn thing to live as the
is
it
ruler of a nation, or the pastor of a church, does the subject
apply
persons in
to
common
you occupy a humble
life ?
station
does.
It
What though
only remember that you are
immortal, and that others around you are immortal, and
thought attach
what importance does
this single
thing you say or do
You
you spend an hour
in a social circle.
to
every
you read a book
The
thing
is
done
But, imperceptibly, perhaps, you have re-
and forgotten.
ceived impressions on your
own mind,
or have given impres-
other mind, that will last for ever.
some
sions to
take a walk
man and
every
thousand
ties,
woman
is
and cannot
Every
connected with God's world by a

live, no, not for
a single day, with-
out doing good or evil.

,
You
are a professed Christian.
forget the
license to
cause of the Redeemer.

sequences in this case
have done
VOL.
Perhaps you sometimes
vows of God which are upon you, and give such

your tongue, or to your actions, as to wound the
in
III.
Did you ever soberly look at conDid you ever reflect that what you
one half hour,
may have
3
influence a thousand
GREAT EFFECTS
IQ
miles distant, or a thousand years to
come
mortal pes-
was introduced
by a ship's crew, among whom it was generated by a small
and that defect was occasioned by the
defect in their ship
gnawing of a worm in an oak, that grew on another contitilence spread over a city
that pestilence
nent, a century before.
You
Do you
are a father.
how can
say,
man, who have no influence on the

world, do mischief
by
my
example
guarded word which you spoke
You have
ily ?
forgotten
may
Say
not, then,
my
in the retirement of
You must go
are immortal.
every whisper of your

assembled universe
life
will
Secluded
your fam-
in
remember it,
I, who am obwhen secluded
act without restraint, especially
from the world,
You
morning
Obscure
family.
to the
judgment
be exhibited
What
That
soul^
worth
child, too,
tor in the
more than a
may become
is
there
million
and
before
an
eye of the
if the
world does not follow you into the domestic circle

not restraint enough that your child
has
great
that un-
but your child will
perhaps, to his dying day.

scure,
What was
this
an obscure
I,
affairs of the
Is
it
That child
globes of gold.
a legislator, a judge, or a pas-
You act under a

Take care, pai'ent
You cannot stir, without touching
church.
dreadful responsibility.
some
string that will vibrate after
dust.
One word
your head
levity or passion, uttered in the hearing of
produce an
fluence
effect
may
be
laid in the
is
of pious counsel, or one word of sinful
your
on your children's children.
felt
child,
Nay,
may
its in-
on the other side of the globe, and
may
extend into eternity.
You
are a mother.
Excluded from any share
splendid achievements of the world

therefore, to be
deemed unimportant ?
wife of a humble tradesman in

his birth,
was apparently
is
By
no means.
London had
destitute of
life,
in the
your influence,
The
a son, who, at
and was
laid aside
FROM LITTLE CAUSES.
By
as dead.
flame of
jj
the assiduities of a faithful nurse, the expiring

in
life
was happily preserved.
the infant
Christian mother dedicated
him
to
His
God, " and before he
could read, taught him the history of the Old and

taments, by the assistance of some Dutch
tiles in
of the room where they usually sat."
Philip Doddridge
afterwards, as
most useful ministers that has lived
By whose
was
instrumentality
New
the
That
child
Samuel edu-
the prophet
By
that of his
AVho taught young Timothy the Holy
mother Hannah.
His grandmother Lois, and
mother Eunice.
Scriptures
Wherever
the writings of the late venerable John
his pious
it
was
you know, one of the

in any age.
cated for an exalted station in the church
shall be read,
Tes-
chimney
will be
known
his
Newton
that the instructions
which
mother gave him before he was four years
fastened an impression on his conscience,
him through
subsequent licentiousness,
all his
old,
which cleaved
till
to
he became
an eminent believer and preacher of that Gospel which he
had despised.
In connection with
this,
which spreads out our subject before us
take another
fact,
in all its interest.
Claudius Buchanan, a poor youth, wandering in the streets

of London, incidentally heard a sermon from Mr. Newton,
which excited
prise of
his
pen
Buchanan
to write
How
on that
east,
and are come
fire,
to
when
own
to
little
text,
the
efforts
did he know,
We
"
worship
burn with unabated
him,''''
and enter-
when he
took
have seen his star in the

that
he was kindling a
fervor, in millions of bosoms,
hand of death should have extinguished
How many
How much
his first I'eligious impressions.
good has been done by the indefatigable
it
in his
thousands are every day instructed and
comforted by reading the Family Bible of Scott, another
man
to
at this
whom Newton was
a spiritual father
immense sum of good, and remember
human agency
Look now
that, so far as
deserves to be mentioned in any case,
all
GREAT EFFECTS
12
be ascribed, under God,
this is to
to the instructions
which
child received from his Christian mother.
little
My
second general remark
is,
we
that
should never
yield to discouragement in our efforts to do good.
Though
any
the result of these efforts, in
not be so immediate as
we
we
could wish,
case, should
are called to the
exercise of faith, and patience, and courage, not of despond-
The first question is, in every such case, Is this a

The second is, By what means shall it he
ency.
good
object ?
accomplished ?
To
Settle these,
over,
is
ples.
is
no third question.
beneath the dignity and energy of Christian princi-
know
that the cause of piety
and good morals has
The
majority of the world
stubborn obstacles
is
and there
deliberate whether such an object shall not be given
against
it.
to
Still,
encounter.
the friend of this cause
may
fearless confidence, like the encircled prophet, "
say, with
They
be with us, are more than they that be with them."
again
let facts
The
speak
our instruction.
disciples of Christ
were once a
The Jewish
at Jerusalem.
crush
for
" the
weakness of God
Twelve fishermen of
feeble, despised sect
senate deliberated whether to
this sect at a stroke, or to let
behold,
that
Here
Galilee,
is
it
die of
stronger
But
men."
itself.
than
without learning, without
power, without friends, erected the standard of the cross.

Hosts of opposition gave way' before the triumphs of truth
and
all
the wealth and wisdom, the pride and prejudice, the
power and policy of the world, could not
resist its progress.
But we need not survey past centuries.

ing events which
we have
The
astonish-
recently witnessed, rebuke de-
spondence in doing good.
Look
at the
Concert of Prayer.
tians, in a private
on the
first
the revival
chamber, resolved
few British Chris-
to set apart
an hour,
Monday evening of every month, to pray for

of religion.
The flame spread from minister to
FROM LITTLE CAUSES.

and from church
minister,
to
same
the
spirit
church,
which
extremities of the empire in
till
reached the
it
From
began.
it
Britain
has been kindled in various parts of Europe,
Asia, Africa, and America.

Jt
no enthusiasm
is
hope that
to
soon unite in this concert
and Baxter, and Edwards,
Christendom will
all
and that the
will look
of Luther,
spirits
down from
their abodes
of light, to witness the church, resting from her long con-
and agony, and her prayers, from every part of the
flict
globe, ascending in one great cloud of incense to heaven.
Look
band of men who formed the
at the little
With means
Missionary Society in modern times.
incompetent
first
utterly
magnitude of their undertaking, they
to the
assumed a motto worthy of the apostolic age " Expect

GEE AT THINGS, ATTE3IPT GREAT THINGS." The histoiy of
their labors and successes demonstrates, that no obstacles
:
are too great to be surmounted, no enterprise of Christian
benevolence
is
too
arduous
to
be undertaken in the strength
of the Lord.
Look
twenty years
from
than four millions
establishment,
its
of Bibles and
world with kindred societies and the
and
its
annual expenditures
to little less
Look
than
five
Society from
friends than
become
its
its
birth
Testaments,
of
founders said, "

at first,
we
the
filled
beneficence;
dollars.
At
I
its
fourteenth
have followed
could not
this table.
in strength."
its
more
sacred object amounted
Tract Society.
would surround
Samson
for this
distributed
it
fruits
hundred thousand
at the British
anniversary, one of
In
and Foreign Bible Society.
at the British
But
Twenty
six
this
number more
this infant
has
years from
its
establishment it had an annual income of forty thousand

dollars ; and had distributed more than seventy millions of
religious Tracts, in various languages,
winged messengers of salvation

VOL.
III.
ii*
to the
which have gone as

ends of the earth.
GREAT EFFECTS
24
They have preached

and
in the
humble
the Gospel in the splendid mansion
They have
cottage.
carried instruction
" to the child in the school, to the traveller on the road, to

the soldier in the camp, to the
seaman on the miglity waters,

and
to the victim of disease in the hospital,
to the debtor, the
captive, and the criminal, within the walls of the prison."
Look
at the
wonderful
do good, which our
efforts to
Time would
country exhibits.
own
mention the Societies
fail to
promoting Domestic and Foreign Missions,* Bible Soci-
for
eties,
Tract, Education, and other charitable Associations,
which have recently sprung up without number, and some
among
of which are
vey the world

this
the noblest institutions of the age.
ask you now, brethren,
in motion
age of action.
Then
review
to
this subject.
Sur-
the wonderful characteristics of
look at the dear, immortal chil-
dren, in your families and schools
then look forward into
future generations, and into eternity, and say, have you not
a great work
child,
to
accomplish
can do something
one cent,
Every man, woman, and
can do much.
buy a small Tract
to
Who
cannot spare
That Tract, dropped on
the high road, or given to a stranger,
may
some desponding, or conviction
some careless heart
to
carry comfort
jnay reclaim some profligate, awaken some drunkard

sobriety,
some Sabbath-breaker or swearer
to
to
to
saving refor-
mation.
The day
is
coming, when
men
will be
accustomed
to
reckon the establishment of a Tract or Moral Society, or a

prayer-meeting,
among
the instruments of ushering in the
glory of the church, and the salvation of the world.

not improbable that eternity will
disclose to us,
* In 1808, the spirit of Foreign Missions,
how
It is
tlie
which has since
excited a deeper interest in the American churches than any

otlier subject
ever did, was confined to the bosom of tuo or three
pious young- men, with
whom
it
originated.
FROM LITTLE CAUSES.

first
from the closet
Anna
of old, " pray-
astonishing events of this age sprung at
of some obscure saint, like Simeon and
ing to
God alway, and waiting
Courage, then, brethren
God
go forward.
and righteousness
is
for the consolation of Israel."
Stand up
The
with you.
is
drawing
has agitated the church
your work, and
to
struggle between sin
The storm which
to a close.
ceasing
is
25
to
"The
rage.
long
night of discord and calamity which has enveloped the world,
With humble hope and
passing into a glorious day.
is
we
joy,
approaching consummation of the prophetic
hail the
word, when the seventh angel shall sound, and great voices
be heard in heaven, saying,
are
'
The kingdoms
of this world
become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ
he shall reign
The
for
ever and ever.'
invention of the telescope,
Allelujah!
it
has been said, resulted
from the amusement of a spectacle-maker's boy.
same
was constructed the
optical principles
which we perceive
that a drop of stagnant
teeming with inhabitants.
By
and
Amen."
On
the
by
itiicroscope,
water
is
a world
one of these instruments the
experimental philosopher measures the ponderous globes that

the Omnipotent
the skies
Hand
by the
has ranged in majestic order through
other, he sees the
rounding and polishing
five
eye of a
fly.
globes, in the
same hand employed
in
thousand minute, transparent
Yet
modern science, exhibiting the

agency of God, we owe to the
all
these discoveries of
intelligence, dominion,
transient
and
amusement of
child.
The Tract
called
The Great Question Answered, was
one day presented by Rev. Dr. Henderson,

the royal gardens in Copenhagen, to a
passed by.
his
mind
He
read
it,
and
it
at the
gate of
young physician who
made such an impression on
that he applied to a patient, one of the
Moravian
GREAT EFFECTS FROM LITTLE CAUSER.
15
This pious
brethren, to assist
him
man
he had found him, and informed him of
rested not
till
in finding the donor.
the deplorable destitution of the Scriptures in Iceland.

laid the
being engaged in the service of the Bible Society

sequently for
all
A New
and con-
the blessings which have flowed from Bible
Denmark, Sweden, and Russia
Societies in Iceland,
in 1R13,
This
foundation for Dr, Henderson and Dr. Paterson
England clergyman,
(the author of this Tract,)
on entering a bookstore in his own neighborhood,
observed a small religious pamphlet, recently published, and

inquired the price of
publications were issued
London.
"
and
told
it
was sixpence. His

which such
it
by the Religious Tract Society of
That book," he
who wish
all
He was
it.
instantly reverted to the cheapness with
mind
to
must be
purchase
!"
He
it
replied, " should be aflx)rded to

for distribution, at a
penny
consulted with a few friends.
Tract Society was formed, which issued, in a few months,

more Tracts than had before been printed in the United
Slates.
That Society, with
can Tract Society
of
others, constituted the
the final extent
usefulness of which, the Omniscient
Ameri-
of the operations or
Mind alone can form
an adequate conception.
Mo. 75.
WILLIAM KELLY;
OR,
THE HAPPY CHRISTIAN

BY REV. HUGH STOV/ELL,
OF THE ISLE OF MAN.
William Kelly was bom

Man,
in the
year 1731.
honest parents,
who
Scriptures.
much
labor
At
him
his religious
the best instructions in her power.
not altogether in vain
pleasure, at a very early period of
worship.
the parochial school he
His mother took some pains with
was
of
learning as to be able to read the holy-
education, and gave
Her
Isle
descended from poor but
resided in the parish of Kirk Bradden,
on the south side of the Island.

received so
Douglas, in the
at
He was
life,
for
he took great
in attending public
At a proper age he was put apprentice
to
a tailor |
LIFE OF WILLIAM KELLY.
and, having finished his apprenticeship, he travelled through
England
several parts of
On
for
marks of growing vanity
uncommon
betrayed
now frequented
the
and soon learned
To
improvement
and both
levity of
his dress
and behavior
mind and pride of
He
heart.
company of idle and dissolute young men,
their vices
and imitated
supply his expenses, which began
commenced
of his trade, he
in his trade.
he discovered strong
his return to his native place,
their
to
manners.
exceed the gains
fisherman, and soon distinguished
himself by his diligence and activity on board the herring,

boat,
and
more by
still
clamor and noise
his
at the public-
house.
He
proceeded from one degree of intemperance
another,
till
at last
at this "
Before he arrived
struggles with himself, and
excess of riot," he had
he never spoke,
life
with bitter remorse, and the

the goodness of
God
was
credit
satisfy the
but
acknowledgments of
him
and a dupe
at
he
One
to
continued a slave
companions.
length arose
demand on him
he was
and re-resolving,
still
to his vile
totally gone.
off while
After forming repeated
after resolving,
His extravagance
his
this
in not cutting
quit the haunts of drunkenness

to his appetite,
Of
after his conversion,
liveliest
running so desperate a course.

plans of reformation
many
the horrors of an accusing
felt
shame of a degraded man.
conscience, and the

part of his
to
he became an habitual drunkard.
to
such a height, that
day, being unable to
at the public-house, the land-
lady seized his hat as security for the payment of the debt,
and he was obliged
to
ashamed, and mortified.

ful effect
his
ways
" he
came
on his mind.
hurry home bare-headed, grieved,

This circumstance had a power-
He
as a sinner against
to
began, in earnest,
God;
to
consider
like the Prodigal Son,
himself," repenting of his sins, and earnestly
desiring to forsake
them; but having experienced the
in-
LIFE OF
WILLIAM KELLY.
which were made
sufficiency of his former resolutions,

his
3
in
strength, and being fully convinced that " all holy
own
alKgood counsels, and
desires,
all
just works," proceed
from God, he prostrated himself before the throne of grace

he earnestly sought help from above
with a " broken and
contrite heart " he applied to Jesus, the Saviour of sinners;
and, with an entire reliance on the merits, and an absolute
dependence on the grace of
this
compassionate Saviour, he
solemnly and deliberately determined

sins,"
and enter on a new
to
" break off his
life.
This resolution, formed in the divine strength, he was

enabled, by the blessed Spirit
to
keep
who suggested
it,
inviolably
and from that period, which was about the
eth year of his
life, to
the end of his days, a term of
than forty years, he never tasted beer,
ale, or
any
thirti-
more
spiritu-
ous liquor.
His
first
was to abandon his

Though frequently and imaccompany them, as usual, to their
step after his conversion,
former dissolute companions.

portunately solicited to
riotous meetings, he could never once be prevailed on to

violate the
now
solemn resolution which he had formed.
He
applied himself diligently to the labors of lys trade, and
was soon enabled

tracted
by
his
to
discharge the debts which he had con-
former extravagance.
Often did he mention
the seizure and releasing of his hat, and his grateful ac-
knowledgments
to the
merciless landlady,
whom
he always
regarded, under Providence, as highly instrumental in his

conversion.
The change which was wrought by
divine grace in his
views and sentiments, produced a corresponding change

his life
and conversation.
He became
a neio
man;
in
his
manners, his habits, his pleasures, and his employments,
were changed.
The hours which he formerly
spent in the
LIFE OF WILLIAM KELLY
now
public-house, were
sun behold him on
his
by
the night broken
He was
spent in retirement.
quent and earnest in secret prayer.
knees
fre-
Often did the rising
and often was the silence of
While
his fervent supplications.
his
hands were engaged, during the hours of the day, in honest

labor, his
to
heaven
prayer and
in
a solitary hour did he beguile with " psalms,
and hymns, and
He
was ascending
heart
Many
praise.
spiritual songs."
applied himself with earnestness and constancy to
the reading of the
employment and
Holy
This was
Scriptures.
He
recreation.
his favorite
committed large portions
of Scripture to memory, particularly the preceptive and
These formed the continual subject of
practical parts.
They were
thoughts.
ory, and
wrought
they were present

like
**
a guardian
This
He
is
inscribed on the tablets of his
into the
to his
angel,
the way,
very frame of his mind
view
at all times
continually
walk ye
and delight
30
of
As
this kind,.
book, and a
who were
reading books
in
in possession of
a compensation
mark of
for
him,
to
21.
of practical religion, which he borrowed from

ious acquaintance
so that
in all places,
whispering
in it." Isaiah
also found great profit
and
his
mem-
all his relig-
any treasure
the perusal of the
his esteem for its contents, he
was
in
the habit of
mending and repairing every leaf and back
which stood
in
need of repair
sometimes gave a coat

bishop Taylor.
to
and poor as he was, he
bishop Beveridge, and another to
His familiar acquaintance with several of
our best divines, had contributed much

correct views of religion.
his favorite authors.
ticularly his
that
to give
him
just
and
Horneck and Beveridge were
With
the writings of the latter, par-
" Resolutions," he
was
so well
acquainted,
upon hearing him quote the sentiments of this excellent
writer, one mifjht imacrine he
had long been
in habits
of
in-
timacy with the bishop, or
many
for
He
in his family
years.
applied himself with extraordinary diligence to the
Manks language and his proficiency was so

he was employed as a teacher by several per-
study of the
great that
sons
had lived
at least
who wished
to obtain
a knowledge of
pacity the writer of this narrative
with him
first
In this ca-
it.
became acquainted
and with gratitude he acknowledges the
many
Scriptural lessons which he has received from him, the
many
pleasing and profitable hours which he has spent in
and the lively impression which the example of
his society,
this
venerable
Divine grace
man
to
has
make
left
on his mind, of the power of
the profligate pious, the unlearned
wise, and the poor happy.
Several of the clergy of this
have similar obligations
island
retain a peculiar respect
Manks
to their
and regard
for his
tutor,
and
memory.
His manners were so gentle, his conversation so cheerful,
and
his
whole behavior so mild and courteous, that his
company was highly
grateful to all
of piety in themselves
temper were most contrary
acknowledge
that his
who had
the least savor
and even those whose

to his
spirit
and
own, were constrained
conduct discovered
how
to
earnestly he
pursued " whatsoever things are lovely and of good report."
During the
latter
years of his
life,
he was subject
to
rheu-
matic pains, and a complaint in his back, which disabled
him from following
his trade, except
at
short intervals.
The small earnings of his former days, on which he was

now compelled to draw, afforded but a scanty subsistence.
On
this
trifling
pittance,
however, he lived contentedly,
thankfully, and cheerfully.
So
far
was he from murmuring or
repining, that he
was
continually uttering the language of praise and thanksgiving

to the
God
VOL.
III.
of his mercies.
He
4
kept the bright side of every
LIFE OF Wir.LIAM KEIJ-Y.
When
thing in view.
others were complaining of the times,
of the weather, or the crops, he would
still
some
find out
reasons for thankfulness in those very subjects of complaint;

in his favorite phrase, that " All is
and would remark,
Himself"
meaning from
was
ful cheerfulness
all
good.
the prevailing temper of his
had a constant regard

thanks always for
the Giver of
to that
all
from
grate-
mind
he
passage of Scripture, " Giving
things ;" and on every occasion he
supported the character of a truly happy Christian.
To
an intimate friend he once gave the following ac-
count of his domestic economy and his daily expenses.

general
diet,
he
said,
was bread and water.
His
Occasionally
he bought a pennyworth of milk, which he considered as a

great luxury
and sometimes he indulged himself with a
him
herring, Avhich his hostess dressed for
but he seldom
For
or never could go to the expense of butchers' meat.

the garret in
He made
it
which he
out paying for

"
Owe
no
manner
it
lived he paid five shillings yearly.
an invariable rule never

it,
to get
man any
strictest truth,
expense did not amount
to five
As he approached nearer
more
spiritual
nearly the two
began
them,
to
it
years of his
he walked silently
eternity,
and became
life,
when
his
little
be exhausted, and he was utterly unable
who
trust in
his faithful servant.
Christian introduced
had been long
Him,
to
him
to the
by
who never
funds
to recruit
leaves nor
open a door of relief
The exemplary
confinexl
For
in his conversation.
pleased that good Providence,
forsakes those
In this
during which
in the year.
his end,
and heavenly
last
life,
be asserted, that his whole
pounds
and thoughtfully along the shore of

still
article with-
thing, but to love one another."
did he pass several years of his
may, with the
any
in conformity to the precept of Scripture,
piety of this
acquaintance of a lady
a painful disease,
for
happy
who
which termi-
During her tedious confinement, she
nated in her death.
found peculiar consolation from the
visits
of this Christian
and often spoke of the benefit which she derived
friend,
Her
from his scriptural and edifying discourse.
many
procured him
regai*ded as
friendship
temporal comforts, which he always
coming immediately from God, and
for
which
he abounded in thanksgiving.
About
time,
this
pressing, though he
when
wants were probably very
his
was never heard
to utter
a complaint,
one of his young friends, who had long regarded him with
peculiar esteem and affection, obtained for him a monthly
subscription of sixteen shillings
would be a
this
beaming from
and on enquiring whether
sufficient supply, the old
man with
gratitude
he did not know what
his eye, declared that
much money. The event proved that

sum for him to expend on himfriend who procured it afterwards discov-
he should do with so
this was, indeed, too large a
self;
for,
as the
made
ered, he
also, to sick
it
serve three other families.
and indigent persons, he was
imparting such pecuniary relief
In his
visits,
in the habit of
considering his ability,
as,
appears almost incredible.
His
erty
little
library formed the principal part of his prop-
this consisted of the
Bible in
Manks and
The
bishop Wilson's Exposition of the Catechism,

Monitor,
The
Advice
Minister's
Meditations, and Orton's
" Bishop Kidder's Advice to

it
from him
to his Parishioners,
He had
formerly possessed
Young Men,"
and he ever
after
but some person
lamented the
of that book as one of the heaviest calamities of
The few books
Evans'
Sermons on Eternity, which was
one of his favorite books.
had stolen
English,
Christian
in his collection
again, but especially the Scriptures,
loss
life.
he had read and read
which were
nourishment, his comfort under every
his constant
affliction, the contin-
ual subject of his meditations, the favorite theme of his

discourse, his
companion
The
remarkable.
Testament were
from
fact
in solitude,
and
his counsellor in
His acquaintance with the Bible was very
all difficulties.
either,
historical parts of both the
New
Old and
any
so familiar to him, that, in recounting
he seldom omitted a single circumstance
and, in general, related every incident in the very language
of Scripture.
The Psalms were
had many of them
in his
his peculiar delight
memory, and was
he
in the habit
both of repeating and singing several passages which he
had selected, with great judgment, from the version by Tate

and Brady.
These, and some of Dr. Watts' Hymns, as
also Bishop
Kenn's Morning and Evening Hymn, furnished
him with abundant matter

Psalmody,
for
His knowledge of the

extraordinary.
for the exercise of his talents in
which he was particularly distinguished.
The
New
Testament was
more
still
parables, exhortations, and admonitions
of our blessed Saviour, and the practical and preceptive

parts of the epistles,
were
all
treasured up in his memory,
and he would repeat them among
his religious friends, with
perfect accuracy, and in their proper connection.
ever was the subject of conversation,
some
apposite passage of Scripture, of
it
some
or precept, which he was sure to introduce.
much
in religious anecdote,
What-
reminded him of
fact, or parable,
He
abounded
and seldom conversed,
for
any
length of time, without bringing forward some favorite pas-
sage from " the great Authors," as he termed them, which
he had read.
It
may
be interesting and instructive to the reader
to
be
presented with a few specimens of his religious conversation.

1.
Being one day
in
company where some
persons, ap-
I>1FE
OF WILLIAM KELLY.
parently religious, were speaking witli mucli severity on
an absent neighbor,
faults of
tiie
genuine Christian, after
this
betraying strong symptoms of uneasiness, at length broke out

in these
words
"
my
Come, come,
nothing good of him,
let
you what bishop Beveridge says

'
never
And what
vices behind his back.'
maketh thee
2.
'
speak of a man's virtues
to
to differ
friends, if
us say nothing
I
to say,
'
Shall
to his face,
nor of his
saith the apostle
from another?' "
I tell
says he,
resolve,'
'Who
4:7.
1 Cor.
Speaking of the danger of what some
he used
we can say
at all.
call little sins,
away
small penknife will take
life
as
well as a large sword."

3.
"Supposing," he would say, "that some very rich
man were
me
to leave
a large estate
before
had walked
round the boundaries and taken the number of the
might be called away.

do
me?
me
Let
He
and that fadeth not away."
often dwelt on this passage of Scripture, "
will take
Psalm 39
heed
1
epistle of St.
ment of
fields, I
good, then, would the estate
take care to secure the inheritance incor-
ruptible, undefiled,
4.
What
to
my ways,
that
sin not with
and frequently repeated those passages
James, chapter
the tongue
3,
which
said,
in the
relate to the govern-
and he would enforce
man who
my tongue,"
his admonitions
by
the story of the
to
bring him the best article which he could find there, and
sent his servant to the market,
the servant returned with a tongue ; being sent a second
time for the worst article in the market, he again brought
back a tongue.
"
hear many," he would sometimes say,
" complain of their having had
teeth,
but
have never
heard any one complain of his having a iad tongue.

read, however, in Scripture, of
teeth; but
find dreadful
IIT.
don't
judgments denounced against a
bad tongue."
VOL.
any threatenings against bad
4*
UFE OF WILLIAM KELLY.
20
When
5.
would say, "

little
a child has been running towards him, he
My
Saviour
child, before I
me
tells
can enter
must become
into the
like this
kingdom of heaven
as free from hatred, and malice, and pride, and guile, as this
little
child."
He was
6.
tions to his
very earnest and affectionate in his exhorta-
young
that passage in the 119th
How
and used often
friends,
them
Psalm
shall the
young preserve
their
From all pollution free ?

By making still their course of
With thy commands agree.
And
repeat to
to
he would conclude by saying,
'
ways
life
Remember
the
word
all:'
He
7.
used
speak with peculiar earnestness of the
to
dreadful consequences of drunkenness, and the unreasonableness and vileness of such brutal indulgences.
his remarks on
when brought
hoi'se,
after that
is
after his thirst is
to the
'
is
worth preserving
One of
" The
to the water, will satisfy his thirst
man can
done, no power of
take another drop
than
subject
this
prevail on
but,
him
to
while his rider will drink, and drink,
quenched,
till
the beasts that perish.'
he becomes more senseless
What
return shall
Father of mercies, and the tender lover of
make
souls, for
sparing me, and leading me, by hi^ grace, to see the error
my ways ?"
of
8.
To show
the necessity of an entire change of heart,
he often mentioned a saying of bishop Taylor's

be a crack in a
it;
it
9.
must be
bell,
cast
there
is
no possible
way
" If there
of repairing
anew."
Another saying of bishop Taylor's he frequently
peated, with strong
commit
marks of approbation
sin so secretly that
"
Though
re-
could
no person living should ever
hear of
and though
it,
me
punish
for
were sure
vet would
it,
not
jj
God would never
that
commit
very
sin, for the
filthiness of sin."
10. Often
that
would he say, that
sermons are heard with so
was the
said he, " heard a bad sermon
life,"
have heard, warn

to
it
say
Take heed how ye
'
profiting
11.
from sin
to flee
"We
we would come
all
work
story of the poor
would not
oflT
conquerors.
fail
of
asked by his friends
ever, for
fell
to
is
the most
be done care-
while
live, the
and prayer; and who, being
he spent so
his
to
read of
spent the greatest part of his time
why
would be easy
remarks which
may
ought never
hands and eyes

"
ever, for ever.'
up
lifted
joints of the harness."
me remember,
Let
man who
it
in holy reading, meditation,
these
hearers
all
would frequently say, "
and
lessly or negligently.
It
my
in
must put on the whole armor of God," he

if
12. " Soul-work,'^ he
important of
For
and were
hear,' they
king Ahab being smitten between the
'
never
the preachers
by every sermon which they hear."
would say, "
manner,
all
themselves, on entering the courts of the Lord's
to
house,
me
fault of hearers
"
little profit.
produce
from the
many
hours in that
heaven and
to
many
similar religious
of this excellent
lips
suffice to discover the
said,
wisdom which
man
is
but
imparted
by Divine grace.
There was nothing
more remarkable than
in the life of this
and concerns of the world.

provide
for,
satisfied
and
his
eternal things.
his
happy Christian
his entire abstraction
from the cares
Having no wife
own wants being
so
mind was wholly occupied by
He
'
lived
"conversation in heaven."
by
faith,"
He was
or family to
few and so easily

spiritual
and had
seen
and
literally his
to glide silently
I-IfE
12
^F WILLIAM KELLY.
through the streets and alleys of the town like an inhabitant
The
of another world.
not interest
were
him
noise and the bustle around
He had
fixed '-on things above."
cern, one grand end in view

called
"
him unto
To
who was remarking
that coals had
sir,
warmed
grown
me
are as cheap to
This was
they were forty years ogo.'^
the case, for no fire had ever
who had
by Christ Jesus."
extremely dear, he replied, " Coals,

noiv, as
did
but one great con-
" to glorify God,
his eternal glory
a person
him
His thoughts and affections
in the least.
in reality
his little apartment,
which, indeed, was furnished with neither grate nor chim-
ney
yet of this apartment he often spoke with seeming
rapture.
He
had found out a variety of
which no eye but
ticular pleasure of the

first
attractions in
it,
spoke with par-
skylight which admitted the
little
rays of the rising sun into his room, and the mild beams
of the
let
He
his could discern.
moon which he used
to describe as gilding the cover-
of his bed, and beautifying every object around him.
If the walls of this garret could speak,
what a report would
they bear of the pious exercises, the earnest prayers, and

devout aspirations of
It
was
which he
his
custom
its
solitary inhabitant
to
assemble the people of the house in
lived, for the
purposes of praise and prayer, every
evening, before they retired to rest.

narrative
was once present
was highly delighted with
at these
and energy the old
man
assembly.
little
short and affectionate exhortation
which
all
the
little
With great
began with repeating several
practical passages of Scripture, on
in
writer of this
manner of conducting them.
his
few neighbors had joined the
spirit
The
family exercises, and
company
which he grounded a
he then raised a psalm,

heartily JQined
and he
concluded with bishop Wilson's excellent form of Family

Praver.
The
fervent and earnest
manner
in
which he
per-
formed these domestic duties was exceedingly impressive,

and strongly marked the devout state of his mind.
when he
joined
in the public service of the church, on which he
was a
The same
spirit
of devotion shone forth
regular and constant attendant.
The
delight
which he took
To
church service was very remarkable.
in the
Jiim the
he joined in
liturgy was always new, always interesting
manearnest
his
and
fervor
unabating
;
every pethion, with
;
ner of making the responses, and his hearty zeal in singing

the praises of God, had a remarkable effect on the whole
congregation.
This was particularly visible
which was
service,
set
up
in the
Manks
at the
town of Douglas
year 1794, for the accommodation of the
poor
in the
and
he offered to officiate gratuitously as clerk.
which
devout and animated manner in which he discharged

long be remembered by those
office, will
who
at
The
this
attended that
delightful service.
The
doors of the church were seldom, if ever, open,
either on the Lord's

to
make one
that, for
day or on week days, but he was found
He
of the congregation.
nearly twenty years of his
life,
often blessed
God
he had never been
prevented, for one Sabbath, from attending the house of the
was
entirely free from all bigotry and party spirit.
a truly scriptural Christian.
He
Divine image wherever he beheld

ite
He
He was
This he considered as an inestimable privilege.
Lord.
it
loved and revered the

;
and one of
his favor-
sentiments was, that true Christians are of the same
spirit
and temper wherever they are found.
before his death, a friend
the Tracts published by
These
"The
them among
A short
few weeks
Religious Tract Society."
he regarded as a rich treasure
circulate
made him a present of a few of
and was
in haste to
his aquaintances.
character of this inestimable
man
appeared some
14
time ago in " Tlie
improper
"
Manks
Advertiser," which
introduce here
to
Much
is it to
They
not be
however, more numer-
are,
ous than careless observers imagine.
In the quiet scenes
in poverty, in sickness
life,
may
be lamented, that examples of Christian
piety are so rarely seen.
of domestic
it
and
affliction, real
piety often passes her days, unnoticed and unobserved.
few select
friends, or a
narrow
circle of acquaintance,
mark,
admire, and love these 'partakers of the Divine nature;'
but to a busy, bustling, noisy world, they are utterly un-
With one of
known.
these retired
monuments of
piety the
writer of these lines has the happiness of being personally
and intimately acquainted.

"
Though
the
lot
of this
Christian of the
has fallen in almost the lowest class of society
school
though his privations are many, and
ments few
repast,
erage
his temporal enjoy-
though the coarsest viands furnish his daily
and a neighboring spring supplies his constant bevthough
his
mean apartment
contains no
the furniture of the prophet's chamber,

stool,
primitive
and a candlestick,' yet
thankful, and happy.

object,
He
is
'
more than
a bed, a table, a
he perpetually cheerful,
views the bright side of every
and traces the goodness of the Creator wherever he
directs his view.
" His piety renders him a most interesting companion

his familiar
acquaintance with the oracles of Truth has
furnished his mind with the most sublime sentiments, such

as Socrates
would have
listened to with silent admiration,
and Plato have heard with rapturous joy.
His continual
with prophets, apostles, and martyrs,
who have
taught him to think well, to speak well, to do icelL
He may
converse
is
justly be styled a 'practical Cliristian, as all his readings,
meditations, and
prayers, have
an immediate and direct
IJFE OF WILLIAM KELLY.

influence on his
life
and
his silver locks
He
sees the shadows
full
of immortality
and conversation.
of the evening drawing on,
'
with hopes
remind him
J5
;'
remaining days
to pass his
as a pilgrim, with his staff in his hand, ready to depart.
"
For these many
'
years,' to use his
own
language,
'
he
has not promised himself a to-morrow,' but closes his eyes,
every night, unsolicitous ^vhether he awake

another.
Under
in this
world or
homely garb and obscure appearance
the
of this lowly Christian, the reflecting mind traces the future
angel ; and through the surrounding cloud of indigence and
ray of the Divinity shine
infirmity, perceives a
period
envy
is
not very distant,
this pious inhabitant
No wonder
when
forth.
princes and emperors
The
may
of a garret."
such a
that the end of
of solid piety,
life
resulting from faith in Christ Jesus, should be peace and firm
him
reliance on
salvation.
for
short time before his
him
departure, the writer of these pages visited
him
time, and found
parting, a hope being expressed, that, if they

in this world,
they should meet in a better
he, with the confidence of one

lieved,
"we
shall
meet
in
who knew
into rest, in the
At
On
"
in
met no more
yes," said
whom
he be-
In this composed and
heaven."
happy frame of mind he continued

solution arrived.
for the last
patiently waiting for his change.
till
the hour of his dis-
Friday, 27th May, 1808, he entered
78th year of his age.
His funeral was attended by a great concourse of people

of
all
weep
At
ranks.
bitterly
said, that
the grave, a poor
woman was
observed
being asked the reason of her
grief,
to
she
she had for some time past received a weekly pen-
sion from Lhe deceased, and that
by
his death she
one of the best and kindest of friends.

the besear, the stranijer and the native,
had
lost
The gentleman and

seemed
to vie
with
IQ
each other
ory of
in
paymg
the last tribute of respect to the
To
this real Christian.
sermon was delivered from Rev. 10

lowing character of the
"
mem-
a numerous congregation a
:
which the
5, 6, in
fol-
deceased was given.
personal and intimate acquaintance with our de-
parted friend, for several years, enables
much
religious attainments with
me
speak of his
to
confidence.
more emi-
nent example of constant and uniform piety has seldom
His
appeared.
religion, flowing
from a heart renewed by
Divine grace, was lively and practical
not confined to the
nor the church, but regulating his thoughts, and
closet,
words, and actions, through every hour of the day, so that

it
'
might with the
strictest truth
in the fear of the
Lord
all
the
be said of him, that he was
day
long.'
Long
before the
sons of business or of pleasure awoke from their repose, this

vigilant servant of the
Lord
v/as
employed
in his room, or
in his solitary walks, in the delightful exercises of prayer
and
His earnest and marked devotion
praise.
in
assemblies was truly animating and edifying to
him
proving that he was
'
our solemn
all
around
fervent in spirit, serving the
Lord.'
"
It
was
not in the house of prayer alone that the
power
of Divine grace shone forth in the piety of our departed

brother
When
but
of his mind
his heart
'
the
appeared
at
fixed on
'
times and in
his
all
places.
tongue declared that
things above.'
His conversation
So richly
cheerful, edifying, and scriptural.
word of Christ dwell
any other language than

converse,
all
very looks proclaimed the devout exercises
and when he spoke,
was
was always
did
it
silent, his
was almost
in him,' that he
that of inspiration.
seldom used
To
hear him
like searching the Scriptures.
Some
passage from the sacred volume was the constant theme

of his discourse
and particularly those passages which
17
speak of the mercy and goodness of God, and the wonders

of redeeming love.
there
In this marked religious deportment
not the least affectation of sanctity, but heart, and
was
tongue, and
conspired
life
His conduct
and sincere.
conduct in public
and
was genuine
to testify that all
in private
corresponded with his
his behavior towards his friends
and
neighbors was perfectly consistent with his prayers, and

psalms, and hymns.
whole
his
abound
life
The same
in offices of love
and charity,
Though he had but
power.
divine principle influenced
and conversation, and constrained him
little
cheerfully did he give of that
little
to the
to give,
yet gladly and
and often has he
to
utmost of his
liter-
ally bestowed his last mite.
"
The
effect of this
steady and uniform piety, was con-
peace and secret joy.
stant
The power
of religion to com-
municate a happiness which the world can neither give nor

take away, has seldom appeared more evidently than in the
With few of
case of our deceased brother.

comforts or accommodations of
which made him richer
within,
The
description
of our Lord,
'
as
"
tTian the
kings of the earth.
may
disciples
first
justly be applied to our departed friend,

;
as sorrowful, yet
always
as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.'
Very
lately
many
might be
he possessed a treasure
which the apostle gives of the
unknown, yet well known
rejoicing
life,
the outward
was he heard
to declare, that
fellow Christians as
though there
happy as he was, he
was none happier. His happiness was built

Rock of Ages,' and grounded on the promises of
that true and faithful Witness, who is the same yesterday,
His whole dependence was on the
to-day, and for ever.'
believed there
upon
'
the
'
precious merits and grace of his Redeemer.
None but
Christ, none but Christ, was the language of his heart.
Having
'
fought a good
fight,'
having
'
kept the
faith,'
hav-
LIFE OF WILLIAM KF.LLY.
18
ing
'
finished his course,' he looked forward to his dissolution
with hopes
'
He
'of immortality.'
full
death as the messenger wliich was
home
lasting
and had
pointed
out the
remains
to rest.
resurrection,
be
let
where he wished
them
rest
till
the
mortal
his
morning of the
this distinguished follower of Christ shall
and shine as a star
to the angels,
in the
fir-
of heaven."
From the foregoing narrative,

many useful and important lessons.
How
1.
to his ever-
often, with pleasure in his looks,
spot
There
when
made equal
mament
little
had long regarded
bear him
to
reader
the
may
learn
unsearchable are the riches of Divine grace,
and how unbounded the goodness of God

seen William Kelly in his unconverted
the mire of sin, and
Who
state,
that
had
wallowing in
"committing iniquity with greediness,"
could ever have supposed that he was to become an eminent
example of
Happy
piety,
Christian."
If the reader be of the
careless and tlioughtless sinners
who
of "
The
number of those
and deserve and obtain the
title
are hurrying on to
the brink of ruin, destroying their health, their substance,

their families,
eternal misery
ness
let
him
and
their peace,
by indulging
stop for a
and exposing themselves
in the brutal sin of
moment, and
the state of a man, who, like himself,
to
drunken-
attentively consider
was once
''
seeking
death in the error of his ways," and yet afterwards, by
Divine grace, was awakened and converted, " renewed

the spirit of his mind," and "filled with
in believing."
Let him learn from
all
this
in
joy and peace
example not
to
despair of obtaining an entire conquest over his prevailing

sin,
and of becoming " temperate
not,
however, delay one hour
Let him have
recourse
to
to
in all things."
Let him
employ the same means.
secret and
earnest prayer to
Almighty God,
for the
19
pardon of his sins through the merits
and intercession of Jesus Christ
let
him
also attend to holy
meditation, to the devout reading of the Scriptures, and the
means of grace.
diligent use of all the appointed
example now proposed
the
'like
Let him,
earnestly
to his imitation,
pray that the Holy Spirit would renew his heart, and enable
him
to
" cast
away
his transgressions
all
whereby he hath
transgressed ;" then shall he too be " washed and sancti-
and "justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by
fied,"
the Spirit of our
The
2.
clearest
God."
of this happy Christian discovers, in the
life
manner, the power of real religion
and peace
to the soul in all
give solid rest
to
In a cold and
circumstances.
cheerless garret, which to thousands of the sons of
would have been as comfortless as a
To him
most cheerful and most contented of men.

retired
and often
Here he maintained sweet communion with God,

''
rejoiced with joy unspeakable and full of glory."
Bible was the source from which he derived perpetual
Like " The Shepherd of Salisbury Plain," he
consolation.
had often "
company
little to
to
will
it
but his Bible
life in
drink, and
of William Kelly further shows,
makes
how
its
how
indepen-
possessor of the world, and
all
While the busy multitude are wearing
contains.
toilsome labors and anxious wishes to increase
their possessions
adding "house
while they are earnestly employed
to house,
and
field to field ;"
the comforts of the present hour, in
years
was meat,
supply the real wants of man, and
dent real religion
away
eat
him."
The example
3.
little
that
this
corner was the seat of peace, and " the gate of
heaven."
The
men
prison, lived one of the
which may never come
in
and are losing
making
provision for
the contented Christian,
who
wants no more than " food to eat, and raiment to put on,"
20
passes his time cheerfully and thankfully, and enjoys a large
measure of happiness here,

faith in
Jesus Christ,
never end.
to
He knows
at the
same time
looking,
that there
is
a sufficiency for
the inexhaustible storehouse of Providence, and

that " all thinos
o shall
Few
However low
respects,
may
rightly disposed,
may
be
pass his days
may
assured
but every
benefit a few.
however unnoticed
he cannot, in these
religion,
Let the reader from
became eminent, and eminently

this
hour resolve, by the grace
of God, to imitate the bright example which has

set before
he
in
exceed the subject of the foregoing narrative, who
by the power of
useful.
if
is
him
for his o-ood."
o
benefit thousands
his station in life
and unknown he
yet,
work together
o
persons can hope to
reader of this Tract,
by
a happiness hereafter, which shall
will, in
him
now been
and following him, as he followed Christ,
God's due time, join him among the ransomed
throng, who, through faith and patience, inherit the promises

in the eternal
kingdom of glory.
Xo. 76.
TO-DAY!
To-day means
every moment
is
were
hell
ful
to
heaven or
said,
thought
me
The
It
is
moment
how
pre-
not as if
it
it
O, fear-
" God, be merciful
write.
present
the salvation of your soul

living
Is
hangs upon a moment
tremble while
a sinner !"
In this view
the present time.
cious and important
given you
is
but of another
to
seek
moment no man
certain.
affirmed, that
is
"
by the circulation of the blood
through the heart and lungs, in which motion
consumed
is
and motion renewed every moment, the question
put above
is
three thousand times every hour, and above a hundred thou-
sand times every day and night of our
lives,
heaven or
shall stay in this world, or be in
whether we
hell to eternity!
tremendous thought."
O God
"I am fearfully and wonderfully made."
Now, what are the solemn warnings of Scripture, in reference to the time in which we are called upon to make our
" Acquaint now thyself
peace with God ? Let us hear
Alarming consideration
with him, and be at peace."

voice,
" To-day, if
harden not your heart."
cepted time
Are you,
behold, 7iow
is
the
you will hear

now is the
" Behold,
day of salvation."
then, seeking God, that
your soul
How many prayers have you presented for an

How much time have you set apart
Christ ?
devotion
God and
his
ac-
may
live ?
interest in
for secret
his glorious perfections, Christ
and his
Holy Ghost and his blessed operations, are all

the unconverted man.
What are they to you 7
salvation, the
nothing to
What
are ordinances, Sabbaths, the Bible, and
grace
to
you
"
To them
are " precious."
VOL.
III.
means of
that believe," all these things
5*
TO-DAY.
2
"
As
Lord
the
and as thy soul
livetli,
liveth, there
be but a step between thee and death."
Sparing mercy, what a mercy
pray."
Had
than ten thousand worlds.
may
"Pause, ponder,
Of more worth
he dealt with thee accord-
ing to thy sins, thy body would have been in the grave, and
thy soul in hell

earth reading a
But wonder,
heavens
telling thee that the
God who can
curse thee for ever,
is
beseeching thee
O,
if
to
thou art yet on
book, a messenger of mercy, which
little
is
bless thee for ever, or
and entreating, nay, even
inviting
escape his curse, and accept his blessing.
know
thou didst but
the value of thy precious soul,
the wôrth of God's great salvation, and the blessedness of
an opportunity in which
lose a
for
moment
seek his face, thou wouldst not
to
thou wouldst
mercy, as a famishing
upon thy knees and plead
fall
man would
condemned criminal would plead
for
And
yet
man would
plead for
life.
unconcerned about these things, as

be avoided, or heaven
and lamentable
is
be enjoyed
to
plead for food
pardon
may
it
as a
and as a dying
be that thou art
there were no hell to
if
If so,
how
deplorable
thy condition
Didst thou ever consider the icorth of time, in reference
How
to eternity ?
"
that
would
my
spend
longer, that
does time appear to the dying sinner
time were
it.
to
come over
that
again,
God would
single
it is fit
little for
But,
what
me
little
strike, cried out, "
thou shouldst thus strike thy murderer to
how art thou

week
I ask not
the heart
but spare
better
might recover strength and redeem time."
dying sinner, upon hearing the clock

time, time,
how much
have
to
who knoweth
fled for
for
ever
years
O,
for a
month
though an age were too
do."
not that time cannot he recalled ?
No
force of medicine, no orator's elegant persuasions, no worldling's wealth,
hour of time.
no prince's power, can

If they could,
call
back one day or
what endeavois would there
be used,
they
when extremity has taught them
now
despise
What would
man
could be purchased for any thing that
Then misers would
And
lords
say,
Take
one day's more space
for repentance.
and knights would lay down their honors, and

and
all
us be the basest beggars,
let
we
but have one year of that time which

it
could give
bring out their wealth, and say. All
will I give for
tills
value what
to
not be done at last, if time
cannot, will not be
time gone,
gone
is
we might
if
Ah, no
misspent.
ever
for
must
it
therefore be to-day !
Of what
vast importance
is
a single hour, nay, a moment,
as affording an opportunity for the exercise of repentance
towards God, and
which
towards our Lord Jesus Christ
faith
your
acts are absolutely necessary to
Perhaps you are young, in the bloom of

culates in your veins
you think
it
both
salvation.
life
health cir-
you feel neither cares nor pains

but the morning of life with you, that you
is
have a long day before you, and therefore you say that
you
too early for
to
No.
not your time.
God and
think about
You
think (and
thought) that you must and will have a

in the world
that
when you
it
may
little
more pleasure
are married, or settled in
life,
you
will
time to think upon
God
In your opinion,
when you can think of nothing

your conduct
What
he
will
it
but
have
hereafter.
my
is
else
am
God may say, now ;
So then he and you are
"
Maker."
He
we
put
God may say what
please.
must and
endure the pains of hell
but
must and
at perfect variance.
you, and you are opposing him.

striveth with his
this
if I
if
speak as well as words.
resolved to do as
pleasure here,
Now, what
into words, for actions
do you say in effect but
will,
is
be only a
or aged, and can enjoy the world no longer, then
be religious.
it is
Now
religion.
will say, wo."
He
is
opposing
And, " woe unto him

says, "
Creator in the days of thy youth."
Remember now
But you
say,
"I
that
thy
will
;!
TO-DAY.
when
think upon thee

says, "
Seek
am
ness."
But you say, " No,
seek."
His command
and be
at
He
and gray-headed."
old
kingdom of God and
the
first
that
is
tlie
his righteous-
last thing
will
now thyself with him,

come unto thee." But
" Acquaint
is,
peace, thereby good shall
your conduct says, that you have friends and companions
whom you
say
him, " Depart from
to
resolved to
vation
And
and
let
trifle
me
desire not the
him
What!
with your soul, and neglect this great
young man,
in
God
take thee
But, " because there
away with
a stroke
is
sal-
thy youth,
thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth
thou, that for all these things
judgment."
that
You
knowledge of
minded?
are you, then, thus
Well, then, " Rejoice,
you love God, and
better than
inclination to acquaint yourself with
thy ways."
know
much
love
you have no
but
will bring thee into
wrath, beware
lest
he
then a great ransom cannot
deliver thee."
Perhaps, reader, you are
and what you shall
you
eat,
now
in the
which swallow up
shall wear, are considerations
At present you say you can attend
cares.
You remind me
eclipse, said, "
have no time
of him who, being asked
No
have so
to look at the
much
men once
How
alas,
you escape,
your
he had seen the
thoughtless mortal
to die, for "
fit
the
all
it
is
appointed
means and mercies

more prepared for
not at all
Not one degree more

you do
if
all
nothing else.
but after ibis the judgment."
you are becoming
abundantly more
w^hat will
will
awful, that amidst
aflbrdcd you,
death
to die
to
do with earth, that
to
heavens."
remember, there must be a time

unto
busy scenes of life
and what you shall drink, and what
for hell
fit
for
heaven
Dying
but, alas,
in this condition,
Where
if
you neglect so great salvation ?"
will
you
the righteous be scarcely saved,
and the sinner appear ]"
flee for
where
refuge
shall the
"
How
" If
ungodly
;:
TO-DAY.
When
be able
stand
to
day of his wrath
the great
What
will
come, how will you
is
you say
to
him
will
It
then be found that his warnings and invitations, his prom-
and threatenings, have
ises
light,
upon you
lost
your ears against the
truth,
and entreaties of
God
the counsel of
and grace
his love
will see, but too late,
dumb
will then be
then,
to the
Silent in darkness
But
before him, what will he say to
Probably he will address you in language similar
to
bar
hearts shall be open
all
you
Allow me again
when summoned
will be found speechless
you
resisted Sind rejected
against your soul
of judgment and the secrets of
you
the proposals
all
Then,
how you have
ask what you will say to him
You
It
your conscience against
remonstrances, and your heart against
all
if
been
all
appear that you have shut your eyes against the
will then
to
the following
" O, sinner
your soul
been the means
Messenger
after
to a
my
ministers,
ciled unto
to
messenger
I said,
said,
'
though they be red

'
have sent
As
promised
scarlet,
to
will return
us reason together
the Lord,
they shall be as wool.'

I
have no pleasure in
the death of a sinner; wherefore turn ye and live.'

therefore judge,
than
air
have done
pray you, what could
Now
have done more
you to repentance ? But, alas,

you loved sin, and hated holiness
slighted mercy, abused grace, and, to complete
your misery, you have neglected
you and
to call
has been in vain
you have
and by
be recon-
they shall be white as snow
like crimson,
live, saith
my word,
you
pardon, and threat-
to
let
repentance.
you, to awaken
to
In
Various have
to
Return unto me, and
Come now, and
though your sins be as
said,
'
you
entreated, nay, besought
By them
me.
punish.
unto you.'
ever
call
to
sense of danger and of duty.
you
ened
is lost for
have used
must part for ever
my
salvation
And now,
Justice and righteousness.
"
TO-DAV.
and holiness, yea, the kindness you have abused,
truth
and the goodness you have despised,
me
and constrain
combine together
all
execute the tremendous sentence upon
to
you, and to say before an assembled world,

cursed, into everlasting
fire
Depart, ye
'
prepared for the devil and his
angels.'
Let us
duced by
for a
moment imagine
we
that
see the effect pro-
awful sentence, and hear the doleful lamenta-
this
tion of a soul in hell
"
die
and
no
wretched being that
is cast,
doom
is
no
am
am
can neither
am
nor die
'
rejected,
book have overtaken

terrors
ing
fire ?
and
Time
am
me
it
is
no hope,
mind or ease
am
in hell, in the
send Lazarus
my
am
to dip
tongue, for
cannot be.
and now
and
is lost
lost, lost ^br
the curses in that
all
consumed with
utterly
my
heaven
happiness
is lost
his hosts
kings of the earth, and
judges of the earth.
all
name
the
in
hell
reader, but because you are not in hell
you are prevailed upon
vet be in heaven
praise
people
ye him,
all
princes, and
Both old men and maidens, young
men and children, praise ye

What because a soul is lost
earth, and, if
sing praises
Praise the Lord from the
praise ye him, all his angels
is lost
ever!''
sing praises unto God, sing praises
heavens
am
All the bless-
who, who can dwell with devour-
unto our King, sing praises.
all
The
Death, darkness, despair, and damnation, are
everlasting portion
"
But
this flame.'
ever
pronounced,
There
the tip of his finger in water and cool
ings in the Bible
is
punished with everlasting de-
live
blackness of darkness for ever
tormented in
lost for
sentence
not a moment's peace of
relief, no,
of body for eternity.

struction
fixed, the
over and unalterable for ever
all is
rest,
the
then
to
of the Lord."
no,
You
my
dear
are yet on
seek his face,
may
TO-DAY.
" moments seize,
Heaven's on their wing
When
"Escape
for
thy life;" "fly
man
way, and the unrighteous
My
pity
and let him remercy upon him and
his thoughts
dearly beloved reader, what can be said to you,
upon your soul
and
your soul
for
to
Will you have no
God, Christ, angels, and saints pity
you have no
will
pity for
your precious soul
To-day you are among the
forbid.
living
may
God
to-morrow you
be among the dead

God grant that you may never
among the damned.
Now, perhaps you are in health, in the exercise of all
be
the bodily and mental powers
and deprive you of them

given, if
you seek you
be opened
say,
you
But
you
reproof
ever
!
Now,
shall find,
if
and
may
you
if
laugh
my
hand, and no
you
will be
it
will
man can
or
his salvation,
counsel, and
at
it
you knock
he will one day say, "
my
arrest
ask,
God has done
your soul and
nought
will also
soon, disease
after all that
And
all.
stretched out
set at
when your
My
if,
will neglect
lost for
you refused
ed
set
our God, for he will abundantly pardon."
engage your concern
be
hope
the wicked forsake his
turn to the Lord, and he will have
it
Avish,
for refuge to the
"Let
before thee in the Gospel."
to
may
a moment vre
worlds want wealth to buy."
you must
called, but
man
regard-
would none of my
your calamity
will
mock
fear cometh."
dear reader,
it
he do these things
awaken your
must be dead
possible that he
is
can make you miserable
for ever, or
happy
who made you,

for ever
Can
!
If so, this one thought alone ought to
attention,
and alarm your fears; and you
in sin, deeply infatuated, yea,
"twice dead,"
and assuredly in danger of eternal damnation,
if
you are
not earnestly seeking to obtain the favor of the Almighty.

If,
therefore, there be
any blessedness
in deliverance
TO-DAY.
an eternally agonizing conscience
fi'om the horrors of
any thing blessed

ruption or end
in
one word,
in
and peace, and joy, without
in rest,
if
having the God of heaven
and
all that
if there
them
he can do
to
beseech you
your Friend and Father,
make you happy
now
is
salvation."
open arms, longing
say,
by
now
behold,
to receive
Now,
in the Gospel
them
to
he pleads with you
"
"
Him
Now
out !"
cometh unto me,
that
the
Holy
Spirit pleads
him take of the water of
made
day of
that ask him.
life
unto me,
will give
will in
"
Whosoever
freely."
"He
you
no wise cast
will, let
(Jesus)
was
knew no sin, that we might be made

God in him." God is love
He will-
sin for us, w^ho
the righteousness of
eth not your death
that
the
is
Come
ye that labor and are heavy laden, and
rest !"
and save returning sinners.
he promises his Holy Spirit
if
for
the compassionate Saviour stands with
Now
all
ever
these things
seek the Lord while he may be

him while he is near;" for, "be-
the accepted time
Now
all
to "
found, and to call upon

hold,
if
there be any thing blessed
for
be any thing blessed in any or
all I
inter-
you should not
you come
to
he has given his only begotten Son,
He
perish.
him,
will blot out all
your
sins,
who has bought you with his

time O come to Jesus to-day !
to Jesus,
own blood. To-day there is

" Though your sins be as scarlet,
!
snow
they shall be white as
though they be red like crimson, they shall be as
wool ;" and, because your heart
is
deceitful
ly wicked, he has promised to give
and desperate-
you a new heart and a
The Holy Ghost will work this great work in

Have you no desire, no prayer, no wish for pardon
and salvation ? O, could you know his love, his presence,
right spirit.
you.
He
his grace, you would not slight it.
mercy
Come then, O come to Jesus to-day !
Remember, O remember he hath said, " To-DAY, if you
WILL HEAR HIS VOICE, HARDEN NOT YOUR HEART."
and the riches of
delighteth in
No. 77.
THE
HISTORY OF A BIBLE;
DESCRIBING
ITS
HAPPY INFLUEInTCE
THE MEMBERS OF DIFFERENT FAMILIES, INTO WHOSE LIBRARIES

IT
After remaining
bookseller's shop,
GAINED ADMISSION.
a close prisoner for some months, in a
was
liberated,
and taken
to the
country
young gentleman who had lately

become major. The moment I entered the parlor where
he sat, he rose up and took me in his hands, expressing his
surprise at the elegance of my dress, which was scarlet,
embroidered with gold. The whole family seemed greatly
but they would not permit me
pleased with my appearance
After their curiosity was satisfied, they
to say one word.
to
be a companion
to
desired
me
VOL.
III.
to sit
down upon a
6
chair in the corner of the room.
HISTORY OF A BIBLE.
2
In the evening
was taken up
stairs,
and confined
family prison, called by them the library.

prisoners were under the
around the room

all
same sentence, standing
in
rows
they had their names written upon their
foreheads, but none of
We
in the
Several thousand
remained
them were allowed
to
speak.
in this silent, inactive posture for
some
Now
and then a stranger was admitted to see us

these generally wondered at our number, beauty, and the
years.
order in which
we
stood
but our young jailer would never
allow a person to touch us, or take us from our
cell.
gentleman came in one morning, and spoke in high

commendation of some Arabians and Turks who stood at
my right side he said they would afford fine entertainment
on a winter evening.
Upon this recommendation, they
were all discharged from prison, and taken down stairs.
;
After they had finished their fund of
more
who
to say,
stories,
they were remanded back
called himself
Don
Quixotte,
was
and had nothing
to prison,
and one,
This
set at liberty.
mati, being extremely witty, afforded fine sport for William,

(for that
was our
proprietor's
name.)
Indeed, for more than
a fortnight, he kept the whole house in what
called good-
is
After Quixotte had concluded his harangues, William chose a " Man of Feeling " fjr his companion, who
humor.
wrought upon his passions in a way which pleased him

William now began to put a higher value upon his
Almost
prisoners, and to use them much more politely.
vastly.
daily he held a
Mr.
Hume
little
chit-chat with one prisoner or another.
related to
him
the history of
England down
to
number of
the Revolution, which he interspersed with a
anecdotes about Germany, France, Italy, and various other
kingdoms.
Dr. Robertson then described the state of South
America when
barities
first
discovered, and related the horrid bar-
committed by the Spaniards, when they
stole
it
from
William wept when he heard of their savage

treatment of Montezuma.
Rollin next spoke
he related
he told him
to him the rise and fall of ancient empires
the natives.
HISTORY OF A BIBLE.
God was supreme governor among
that
3
the nations
that he
power and splendor, and putteth down

another.
He told him, what he did not know before, that
God had often revealed to some men events which were to
happen hundreds of years afterwards, and directed him to
raises
up one
to great
converse with me, and
could fully inform him on that
William resolved to converse with me at a future

period, but having heard some of his relations speak rather
disrespectfully of me, he was in no hurry.
At length my
prison door was unlocked, and I was conducted to his bedsubject,
room.
My
salutation struck William.
first
In the beginning,
God made the heavens and the earth

ceeded to make man, whom he placed in
said
1,
a garden, with
permission to eat of every tree that was in

I
then related the history of
Adam,
was urged and prevailed upon by

God's prohibition, but
by
this
it,
except one.
man
first
of the forbidden tree
to eat
how he
mind
the devil not to
and how
abominable act he had plunged himself and his posWilliam, not relishing
terity into misery.
closed
the
and then pro-
my
me
mouth, desiring
to
few days afterwards, he allowed
wickedness of the old world
and
their iniquity,
to
this conversation,
say no more
how God
me
sent
at that time.
to talk
Noah
to
threaten the destruction of the v/hole
world, if they did not repent and turn to the Lord

the world
were deaf
last desired
Noah
of the
reprove
remonstrances
to his
to build
that
and that God
at
an ark of wood, such as would
for he was soon to destroy the

;
by a deluge of water. This con-
contain himself and family

inhabitants of the earth
versation
was rather more
The next
patriarchs,
opportunity,
relished than the former.
gave him a history of the ancient
showing the simplicity,
integrity,
and holiness
of their lives, extolling their faith in God, and promptness

in
obeying
all his
commandments. William became much

I had seen him upon any former occa-
more thoughtful than

sion.
What
told
him he generally
related to his friends
HISTORY OF A BIBLE.
Their conversation was now more manly and
at table.
rational
formerly they conversed only about horses, hounds,
now
dress, etc.,
about the history of the world,
remarkable men who had lived in
the
its
creation,
the different
it,
changes which had taken place in empires, kingdoms, etc.

He was wonderfully taken with the account I gave of
that nation
whom God
the Jews.
I told
from captivity
in
had chosen
for his
own
people, viz.
him how wonderfully God delivered them

Egypt how he drowned in the Red Sea
;
an army of Egyptians, with their king
head,
at their
who
But when I told him of the holy

law of God, and expatiated a little upon it, he shrugged up
Well,
his shoulders and said it was too strict for him.
were pursuing the Jews,
William, said
I,
cursed
all things written or
me
down
aside, ran
is
every one who continueth not
commanded
stairs,
distress.
He
said
to tell
her of his sudden
had alarmed him exceedingly
found himself a great sinner, and saw no mercy
and
I
in the heat of passion
remained
in close
locked
sent for.
into
my old
my company
him
in
stairs,
where
But Wil-
cell,
accordingly
found him very pale and pensive
however,
faithfully told him, that the imaginations of the thoughts
of the heart are only
evil,
he lately began
to feel that
but could not.
Upon
me
confinement for some days.
liam could not dispense with
was
that he
for
His mother came running up
the world to come.
in
pushed
and soon became sick and fever-
His mother begged of him
ish.
He
in that law.
was
quite
The
and that continually.

;
he had
this a stranger
tried to
make
He
it
said
better,
entered the room, and
hid at the back of a sofa, because the family were
ashamed
that I should be seen talking with William.
stranger remarked that he had seen him talking with
me, assured him that I would do him much more harm than
good ; that I had occasioned great confusion in the world,
by driving many people mad.

scandalizing
old cell.
my
character, and
On
I
this,
they
all
joined in
was again confined
to
my
HISTORY OF A BIBLE.
But when my God enables me
sinner's heart, the whole universe cannot
when
liam was always uneasy

quently he paid
me many
was
a stolen
an arrow
to fix
draw
not wdth
visit.
told
it
any
in
Wil-
out.
him consehim one day

;
not to trust in riches, for they often took to themselves wings,
man
and flew from one
another, as Grod directed them.
to
Job once possessed houses, lands, sheep, a flourishing family, all
of which were taken from him in a few hours
God never
William's friends got him persuaded
few weeks,
He
did so
moment he
rected
him
but
forsook him.
to
take a tour for a
remove the gloom which hung upon his mind.

but he returned more dejected than ever. The
to
arrived,
to
was
behold the
sins of the world
sent for to talk with him.
Lamb
of God,
said, thepe
who
di-
away the
name given
taketh
was no other
under heaven among men, but the name of Jesus, by which

they could be saved
that
God
so loved the world, as to send
Son into it, to save it by his death. I then went over the
whole history of the Saviour, from his birth at Bethlehem,
describing his resurrection, and
to his death on Calvary
his
pointing out the evidence of
it
then led his attention to
Bethany, describing the marvellous circumstances attending
Father and testified to him the wonwhich followed, in the immense increase of
conversions to the faith.
then enlarged upon Christ's
I
commission to his apostles, commanding them to publish to
every creature under heaven the glad news, that Christ had
his ascension to his
derful effects
died for the ungodly, had finished redemption, and ascended
up on high
all
to
receive gifts for men, and to bestow them on
who believed God's testimony concerning him.

God opened the mind of William to perceive the impor-
tance and truth of these things.
He began
through the offering of his Son a sacrifice

vised
shall
to
hope
in
for sin.
God,
ad-
him now to follow holiness, without which no man

see the Lord in heaven, or can continue to see his
glory on earth
VOL. III.
to
have no fellowship with wicked

e*'
men
to
HISTORY OF A BIBLE.
God had given him. I

him how Christ rewarded those who overcame all their
enemies through faith in his blood, and by believing the
word of his testimony. This conversation made him very
be a faithful steward of whatever
told
happy, and he
left
Some time
me, rejoicing in the Lord.

he came with a sorrowful heart, com-
after,
plaining that he did not feel the Lord's presence
had forsaken him.
God
assured him that
was
God
that
impossible
for
expressly says he will 7iever leave nor forsake his
people
and that he changes not
warned him
to
such language
in
his love to
them.
calling
is
how he spoke against God for

God a liar. I told him, likewise,
be cautious
church had once preferred a similar complaint

upon which Jehovah protested that it was
against her God
possible for a mother to forsake her infant child, but imposfor he had
sible for him ever to leave or forsake his people
that the
Wherefore I warned
him to be no more faithless, but believing and by doing
it would tend
so, he would glorify God greatly before men
to make men think more favorably of God, and probably
pledged his word
to
the contrary.
lead some to seek an interest in his favor,
would
not.
lieve, help
Upon
thou
my
thou changest not.
evermore, and
to
this
he cried out with
unbelief.
William
left
who otherwise
tears,
Lord,
be-
my
love, but
me, determined
to rejoice
change
in
pray without ceasing.
At first his friends thought religion had made him less

happy than he was before now they declared they had
never seen him in such good spirits, and so truly happy.
They began to wish they were like him. William longed
for the coming of the Lord, while they trembled at the very
;
it: they rather wished he might never come.

This was a great advantage he had over them, by the grace
and tender mercy of the Lord. He exhorted them to come
thought of
to the
same Saviour, and he would receive them
also with
open arms.
William was afterwards brought
into great affliction.
HISTORY OF A BIBLE.
him God
told
sent
it
him
to
make him more
for good, to
and more
holy, humble, dead to sin and the world,
He
heaven.
believed me, and praised
God
fit
for
for his attention
to
him, to send this messenger of affliction to do him good.
person
who came
William
pained.
rather, because
expressed sorrow at seeing him so
in,
replied.
God has
Don't sorrow
for
me
said that our light afflictions,
rejoice
which
are but for a moment, work out for us a far more exceeding
and an eternal weight of glory.

to
recover, just as
God
am
willing to be sick, or
whatever pleases him,
pleases;
pleases me.
he praised
I was never from him during his sickness
God daily that he had ever seen me. He was happy only
when he talked with me or about me. He recommended
me to all who came near him, declaring that my words
;
created a heaven in his soul.
He
found
me
to
be the
mouth of God to him.

William was completely recovered from his indisposiby which his knowledge of God, and experience of
tion
his faithfulness and love, were much increased.
I conHe walked
tinued his bosom companion for many years.
in the fear of God, and in the comforts of his Holy Spirit,
;
till
at length
he entered, with triumph, into the eternal joy
of his Lord.
After conducting William
salem,
was
to the gates
sent for to reside with a
middling ranks of
life,
who had
of the
New Jeru-
young man
in the
received a liberal and re-
removed from this

example and counsel were
evident in all his conduct.
He lived what men call a good
moral life, his deportment was very agreeable, and his soHe regularly conversed
briety was commended by many.
with me twice every day, and prayed in his closet morning
On Sabbath I talked to him from dinner to
and evening.
ligious education from his parents, lately
poor world.
tea,
The
and from tea
effects of their
to
supper.
;!
HISTORY OF A RIBLE.
An
uncle of his perpetually exhorted him to go

amass a fortune. He did not at first relish th
advice.
One day he consulted me. I plainly told him to
be content with such things as he had
not to hasten to be
abroad
old
to
rich, for
rows
he would thereby pierce himself with
that
of riches.
many
sor-
numbers were ruined through the deceitfulness

Labor not for the meat that perisheth, said I,
but for that which endureth to everlasting
After this
life.
conversation, he reasoned with his uncle against leaving his
country and friends, merely

land
to
make money
he declared that the object was a
immortal creature,
who must
in a
pitiful
foreign
one
to
an
soon bid an eternal adieu to
However, after standing his ground for

some months, he consented to go a voyage to the West
the affairs of time.
Indies.
He
As
set sail
from Liverpool, and took
me
along with him.
there were several passengers in the ship,
all
of
whom
were profane sinners, he was ashamed to let me be seen

of course I was hid in a corner of the state-room, completely
masked. On the first Sabbath morning, he took a single
peep at me before the other passengers awoke. I hastily
told him to remember the Sabbath, to keep it holy
that
God was everywhere present to witness the works of men.
He resolved to abide by my advice, and to keep at as great
;
a distance from those on board as he well could.
asked him
to
take a hand at cards, but he refused.
we have
along with us we
said they,
They
Pho
got one of your superstitious Christians

shall
have nice sport with him.
They
teased him with his religion the whole day, and poor George
could not well bear

fore they
it.
One
bold sinner asserted, that be-
reached their destination, they would have
all
his
enthusiasm hammered out of him.
George having none to encourage or countenance him,

and not possessing firmness sufficient for confessing me
before men, resolved to dispense with his religion during
the voyage, and to
comply with
their
abandoned customs
::
HISTORY OF A BIBLE.
Thus he
while he continued in the ship.
before temp-
fell
tation.
One day,
in the midst of his
an advice which
When
merriment, he recollected
had solemnly given him.
It
was
this
Immediately
sinners entice thee, consent thou not.
he rushed out of the cabin, threw himself on his bed, and
wept
I
bitterly.
have ruined
have
He
cried out, (but not so loud as to be heard,)
my
soul
O, what would
my
worthy mother
my conduct
for
days
had she witnessed
said,
his return to the cabin, the sadness of his
observed by the company
past.
On
countenance was
they laughed heartily, and as-
sured him that his reluctance to join them in what they
termed their
that he
from the prejudices of education
sociality, arose
must endeavor
to
mind present enjoyment.
banish
all his fears
of futurity, and
These, and similar observations,
gradually unhinged the principles of young George, and be-
checks of conscience
fore reaching their destined port, his
were almost gone.
What
a dreadful
conscience ceases to be his reprover
when they
shocking
state,
Men
when man's
are often glad
obtain this deliverance, but the infatuation
to
a pious mind, as to see a
rejoicing in the
man
is
as
in the flames,
heat which will infallibly consume him
away.
After the arrival of the ship,
George was soon

money making.
we
When
the
first
went ashore
and
Sabbath arrived, he pro-
tested against transacting business
that he had never been
They
all
fixed in a very advantageous situation for
accustomed
to
on that day, declaring
any thing of
that kind.
advised him to labor hard seven days in the week, and
to the country from whence he came.

him that only a few superannuated whites in the
whole island went to church, and sometimes a few slaves.
In this manner he was prevailed upon to conform to the
I told him that for all these
infidel practices of the place.
things God would bring him into judgment; that he was
he would return sooner
They
told
like the rest of the wicked,
who waxed worse and worse
HISTORY OF A BIBLE.
10
that he did not love Jesus Christ, else he
would keep his

commandments, notwithstanding all the raillery and reproach
to which he was exposed.
I warned him that whoever was
ashamed to confess Christ before men, of him would he be
ashamed in the presence of his Father and the holy angels.
George began to condemn his uncle for forcing him to leave
his father's house ; but as he had come off, he was ashamed
to return.
In a few months, he became as wicked and abandoned

as
any on the
He made
island.
native, w^ho could read a
little
me
a present of
English.
to
a poor
frequently con-
versed with him, but he could not understand what
He
me
said.
few
were greatly affected with what I said. They often called
upon me. Sometimes they pleasantly said my words made
them very happy, they desired to go to that happy world
which I commended so highly. They fervently prayed to
Jesus to take them to it.
An old slave creeped in one day,
inquiring if Jesus could do any thing for very bad people.
I
often desired
to
speak
companions.
to his
replied, It is a faithful saying, that Christ Jesus
the world to save sinners, even the chi.
save unto the uttermost
The
me
all
f.
He
came
into
able to
is
who come unto God through him.
black man, bathed in tears, exclaimed, Good book,
good news
tell
Like the Ethiopian eunuch, he went away
rejoicing.
After some years,
my
was
sent for in great haste to visit
old proprietor George, who,
brought
to the gates
bered me.
finds
them
day.
He
that bad
out.
of death.
by
was
remem-
his intemperance,
In his affliction he
him fools make a mock at sin, but sin

God had been long angry with him every
told
confessed he had been a great sinner.
company had been
his ruin
that
He
by following
example he had destroyed a fine constitution that

distress his bottle companions had all forsaken him
in his
could not bear the thought of death.

begin again, said he,
would
flee
Had
my
said
their
they
days
to
from a swearer or a drunk-
HISTORY OF A BIBLE.
ard, as
would from the plague.
God would
Christ.
way
of
prayed fervently that

Son Jesus
forgive his iniquity for the sake of his
His fever increased, and

all
He
11
few days he went the
in a
the earth.
After this, I became the inmate of a respectable family

which had long been on the island. The master and mistress were professors of religion, but during their residence
in the island they had neglected some of its most important
duties.
They had omitted family prayer until thev were
afraid to resume it, lest they should bring upon themselves
They had not been careful
the contempt of the islanders.
to train up their children in the fear of the Lord.
They
sometimes consulted me in secret, but I told them that they
were sinning against God that they must not be conformed
to the world, but must love and serve God with all their
hearts.
But they had not resolution to commence duties
;
they had so long neglected.
At length one of
They came
me
to
their children
for consolation.
became ill and died.

gave them to under-
it was because they had gone astray that they

were afflicted, and that their affliction was designed to call
them back to duty. They were at length persuaded of
their error, and praised God that he had loved them so much
stand, that
They now strove to

They listened to me when
as to chastise them.
serve
God with
all their hearts.
I told
them
that
they should instruct their children in religion on every

proper occasion, both
when they sat in the house, and when

The youth of that family became
they walked by the way.

at length distinguished
throughout the island for every
vir-
tuous and amiable quality.
But what did more

house,
was the
to
make
religion respected in that
practice of family prayer.
was brought
out night and morning and permitted to speak before

family, which
and attentive
was seated around
attitude.
on these occasions.
the
room
seldom spoke with more
addressed every
all
the
in a respectful
effect
member of the
than
family
HISTORY OF A BIBLE.
12
in their turn.
commanded
the parents to treat their chil-
dren with mildness, and the children

I
told the little
ohey their parents.
to
ones that Christ took
little
children in his
arms and blessed them and bade the servants do their duty
to their master, and the master to be kind to his servants.
And when my instructions were finished, all in the house
;
hymn
united in singing a
made melody
times
my
God
to
and
master would kneel and
believe they somc?-
When
they had sung,

up a humble prayer to
in their hearts.
offer
These exercises caused harmony to prevail throughnumerous family. I observed also, that, although the
God.
out a
inhabitants of the island did not relish
my
master's piety,
yet he every day btained more and more of their respect,

in proportion as his piety increased.
I
have lived
dren grow up
many
(I
fear of the Lord.
years, and have seen
believe through
I
when
the messenger
spoke
to
my
those chil-
all
instructions) in the
was by the bedside of their parents

Death came to call them away. I
them of the joys of heaven, and of
its
inhabitants,
who sing praise to the Lamb, and cease not day nor night.
They cried, " Lord Jesus, come quickly," and ascended to
glory.
I
have always been a
faithful
sought acquaintance with me.

reader
this
world
will
to
show thee
heaven.
friend to all
will
who have
be faithful
to thee,
the only path that leads through
Follow
my
instructions, and
you
arrive there in safety.
PUBLISHED BY THE AMERICAN TRACT SOCIETT,
will
Wo. 78.
CONVERSION
OF
ABIGAIL HUTCHIKSOI.
PRESIDENT EDWARDS' NARRATIVE OF A SURPRISING
WORK OF GOD IN NORTHAMPTON, MASS., 1735.
The subject of this narrative was, before her conversion,

a person of sober and inoffensive manners, and naturallyShe had long been feeble in body, but her inhad never been observed to incline her to be fanciful,
or to occasion any thing of religious melancholy.
She was first awakened in the winter season, on Monday, by something she heard her brother say of the necessity
of being in good earnest in seeking regenerating grace,
reserved.
firmity
together with the
news of the conversion of a young woman.
This news wrought much upon her, and stirred up a

spirit of envy in her towards this young woman, but withal
it engaged her in a firm resolution to do her utmost to obtain the
same
blessing
and, considering with herself what
course she should take, she thought that she had not a
suffi-
knowledge of the principles of religion to render her

capable of conversion
whereupon she resolved thoroughly
to search the Scriptures, and immediately began at the becient
to read it through.
She
Thursday, and then there was a sudden
alteration, by a great increase of her concern, and an extraordinary sense of her own sinfulness ; upon which she
left off reading the Bible in course, as she had begun, and
ginning of the Bible, intending

continued thus
turned
some
to the
till
New
Testament,
relief there.
VOL.
III.
to see if
she could not find
CONVERSION OF
The cause
of her great terror, she said, was, that she
Her
had sinned against God.
distress increased for three
saw nothing but the blackness of darkness
days, until she
before her, and her very flesh trembled for fear of God's
wrath.
She was astonished at herself, that she had been so

for her body, and had applied so often to physiheal that, and had neglected her soul.
Her sinful-
concerned
cians to
ness appeared with a very awful aspect to her, especially in

three things, viz. her original sin, her sin in
God's providence, and in her want of duty
though others had looked upon her
On
murmuring
to
at
her parents,
excel in dutifulness.
to
Saturday, she was so earnestly engaged in reading the
Bible and other books, that she continued searching for
something
to relieve her,
While thus engaged
till
her eyes were dim.
in reading, prayer,
and other
relig-
ious exercises, she thought of those words of Christ, wherein
he warns us not
to
be heard for their

to see that she
performances
be as the heathen, that think they shall
much
speaking, which, she said, led her
had trusted to her own prayers and religious

and now she knew not where to seek relief.
While her mind was in this

seemed to fly to the minister
same day, to her brother, with
posture, her heart, she said,

for refuge.
She went, the
the countenance of a person
because he had not
in distress, expostulating with him,
told
her more of her sinfulness, and earnestly inquiring of him
what she should

self
do.
She seemed,
that day, to feel in her-
an enmity against the Bible, which greatly
afl*righted
her.
On
it
the Sabbath she
was
so
ill
that her friends thought
not best that she should go to public worship, of
she seemed very desirous
but
when
which
she went to bed Sab-
bath night, she took up a resolution that she would, the next
morning, go
As
she
to the minister,
hoping
to find
awaked on Monday morning,
wondered within herself

of a kind she never
at the
felt
such words as these were
some
little
calmness she
before.
in
As
her mind
relief there.
before day, she

felt,
which was
she thought of this,

" The words of the
ABIGAIL HUTCHINSON.
Lord are pure words, health to the soul, and marrow to the
" The
bones ;" and then these words came to her mind
blood of Christ cleanseth from all sin ;" which were accompanied with a lively sense of the excellency of Christ, and
his sufficiency to satisfy for the sins of the whole world.
By these things her mind was led into such contemplations
and views of Christ, as filled her with exceeding joy. She
:
told
her brother, in the morning, that she had seen Christ
is, by faith,) and that she had really

thought that she had not knowledge enough to be converted
the last night, (that
God can make it quite easy

On Monday
day a constant peace in her soul. She had a
repetition of the same discoveries of Christ three mornings
together, but brighter and brighter every time.
but, said she,
she
At
the last time, on
enjoyment of a
her soul was
spiritual
filled
Wednesday morning, while in the

view of Christ's glory and fulness,
with distress for Christless persons, con-
what a miserable condition they were
sidering
felt
felt all
in
and she
a strong inclination immediately to go forth to
sinners,
and proposed
it
the next day
warn
but her brother re-
strained her, telling her of the unsuitableness of such a
She
measure.
loved
all
told
one of her
sisters that day, that
manltind, but especially the people of God.
she
Her
asked her why she loved all mankind.

She replied,
Because God had made them. After this, there happened
to come into the shop where she was at work, three persons
that were thought to have been lately converted
her seeing them as they stepped, one atler another, into the door,
so affected her, and so drew forth her love to them, that it
overcame her, and she almost fainted. And when they besister
gan
to talk
could bear
of the things of religion,
they were obliged
was a very frequent
to
it
was more than she
cease on that account.
It
thing for her to be overcome with a
flow of affection to those that she thought godly, in conver-
and sometimes only at the sight of them.

She had many extraordinary discoveries of the glory of
God and Christ ; sometimes in some particular attributes,
sation with them,
C0^ VERSION
4^
and sometimes
in
many.
OF
She gave an account,
that once,
as those four words passed through her mind, wisdom, jus-
GOODNESS, and truth, her soul was
tice,
filled
with a sense
of the glory of each of these divine attributes, but espe-
Her
Truth, she said, sunk the deepest
mind was swallowed up with such a sense of the glory of
God's truth and other perfections, that she said it seemed as
though her life was going, and that she saw it was easy
with God to take away her life by discoveries of himself.
Soon after this she went to a private religious meeting, and
her mind was full of a sense and view of the glory of God
all the time ; and when the exercise was ended, some asked
and she began
her concerning what she had experienced
to give them an account, but as she related it, it revived
such a sense of the same things, that her strength failed.
Afterwards she was greatly affected, and rejoiced with these
words Worthy is the Lamb that was slain.
She had, several days together, a sweet sense of the excellency and loveliness of Christ in his meekness, which
cially the last.
disposed her continually to be repeating over these words,
which were sweet to her, meek and lowly in heart, meek

She ouce exprcsscd herself to one
IN HEART.
of her sisters to this purpose, that she had continued whole
days and whole nights in a constant view of the glory of
God and Christ, having enjoyed as much as her life could
Once, as her brother was speaking of the dying love
bear.
of Christ, she told him that she had such a sense of it, that
the mere mention of it was enough to overcome her.
Once she told me, that at such and such a time she
thought she saw as much of God, and had as much pleasure
AND LOWLY
as
was
possible in this
life,
but that afterwards
God discovsaw the
ered himself yet far more abundantly, and she
same
things that she had seen before, yet
and
in another
ner,
and was
to
filled
more excellent and

with a more exceeding
far
more
clearly,
delightful
joy.
She
manlike-
such an account of the sense she had, from

day, of the glory of Christ, and of God, in his various
wise gave
day
me
and
ABIGAIL HUTCHINSON.
attributes, that
it
seemed
to
me
in a kind of beatific vision of
she dwelt for days together
God, and seemed
to
have, as
thought, as immediate intercourse with him, as a child with
a father; and at the same time she appeared most remote
from any high thought of herself, and of her own sufficiency,

but was like a
child,
little
and expressed a great desire
to
be instructed.
She
often expressed a sense of the glory of
God appear-
and other works

of his hands.
She told her sister, that she once thought it a
pleasant thing to live in the middle of the town ; but now,
said she, I think it much more pleasant to sit and see the
ing in the trees and growth of the
fields,
wind blowing the trees, and to behold what God has made.
She had sometimes the powerful breathings of the Spirit of
God on her soul, while reading the Scriptures, and would
express the sense that she had of their certain truth and
divinity.
She often used to express how good it was to lie
low before God that it was pleasant to think of lying in the
She was
dust all the days of her life, mourning for sin.
wont to manifest a great sense of her own meanness and
dependence. She often expressed an exceeding compassion
and love towards persons destitute of religion, which was
sometimes so strong, that as she was passing by such in the
streets, or those that she feared were such, she would be
overcome by the sight of them. She said that she longed to
have the whole world saved she could not bear to have one
;
lost.
She had a great desire to die, that she might be with

which increased till she thought she did not know
how to be patient to wait till God's time should come. But
Christ,
once,
when she
felt
these desires, she thought with herself.
Whence she
do I go to physicians ?
concluded that her desires for death were not well regulated.
After this she often put it to herself, which she should
If I long to die,
why
choose, whether to live or to die, to be sick or to be well
and she found she could not

disposed to say these words
VOL.
III.
tell, till at last

:
7*'
she found herself
"I am 'quite
willing to live,
CONVERSION OF
Q
and quite willing
to die
willing to be well
will bring
upon
quite willing to be sick, and quite

for any thing that God
then," said she, " I felt myself
and quite willing
me
And
perfectly easy, in a full submission to the will of
God."
She
then lamented much, that she had been so eager in her de-
argued a want of such resignation to

She seemed henceforward to
continue in this resigned frame till death.
After this her illness increased upon her ; and once, after
sire
for death, as
God
as she ought to have.
it
she had spent the greater part of the night in extreme pain,
she awaked out of a

heart and mouth
I
am
little
"I am
sleep with these words in her
willing to suffer for Christ's sake.
willing to spend and be spent for Christ's sake.
my
am
even my very life for Christ's

sake !" And though she had an extraordinary resignation,
with respect to life or death, yet the thoughts -of dying were
When her brother mentioned
exceedingly pleasant to her.
to her the danger there seemed to be, that the illness she
then labored under might be the occasion of her death, it
filled her with joy that almost overcame her.
At another
willing to spend
time,
life,
when she met
grave, she said
would
it
a company following a corpse to the

was pleasant to her to think, that they
manner.
in a little time follow her, in like
Her
illness, in the latter part
her throat, and swelling inward
of
it,
was seated much
filled the
in
passage, so that
she could swallow nothing but what was perfectly liquid,
and but very

glings,
till
little
at last
of that, and with great and strong strugshe could swallow nothing at
all.
had a raging appetite for food, so that she told her

that the worst bit she threw to the swine
her
but yet
when
She
sister,
would be sweet
she saw that she could not swallow
she seemed to be as perfectly contented without
it
to
it,
as if she
had had no apj>etite. Others were greatly moved to see

what she suffered, and were filled with admiration at her
unexampled patience. At a time when she was striving in
vain to get down a little food, and was very much spent,
she looked upon her sister with a smile, saying, " O sister,
ABIG.IIL HUTCHINSON.
At anotlier time, when her sister was

my good
speaking of what she suffered, she told her that she lived a
heaven upon earth for all that. She used sometimes to say!"
this is for
under her extreme sufferings, " It is good to be

Her sister once asked her why she- said so. " Why,"
it is best that
said she, " because God would have it so
things should be as God would have them it looks best to
me." After her confinement, as they were leading her
to
her
sister,
so !"
from the bed
to the door,
she seemed overcome by the sight
of things abroad, as showing forth the glory of the Being

As she lay on her death-bed, she
that had made them.
would often say these words " God is my friend !" And
:
once, looking upon her sister with a smile, she said, " O,
sister,
how good
it
is
How
suade her
sister to
be
sweet and comfortable
And
think of heavenly things !"
much
in
used
this
argument
to
such meditations.
She expressed, on her death-bed, an exceeding

persons in a natural
it is
to per-
state, that
desire for
they might be converted
and for the godly, that they might see and know more of
God. And when those that looked on themselves as unregenerate came to see her, she would be greatly moved with
compassionate affection.
The
sight of one in particular,
seemed to be in great distress about the state of her

soul, and had come to see her from time to time, so wrought
on her compassion, that it overcame her bodily nature. The
same week that she died, when she was in bodily distress,
that
some of the neighbors that came to see her, asked if she was
willing to die.
She replied, that she was quite willing
either to live or die she was willing to be in pain ; she was
willing to be so always as she was then, if that was the will
of God.
She willed what God willed. They asked her
She answered,
whether she was willing to die that night.
"Yes, if it be God's will;" and seemed to speak all with
such perfect composure of spirit, and such a cheerful and
pleasant countenance, that it filled them with admiration.
She was very weak a considerable time before she died,
;
having pined away with famine and
thirst,
and therefore
CONVERSION OF ABIGAIL HUTCHINSON.
could say but
She
signs.
little,
and manifested her mind very much by

had matter enough to fill up all her
said she
A fewif she had but strength.

days before her departure, some asked her whether she was
She answered, that she had not the
not afraid of death.
least degree of fear.
They asked her why she would be so
confident.
She answered, " If I should say otherwise, I
time with conversation,
should speak contrary to what
know
there is," said she,
"indeed a dark entry, but on the other side there appears

such a bright, shining light, that I cannot be afraid !" She
said, not long before she died, that she
she should grapple with death
showed me
that he
can make
it
used
to
how
God has
be afraid
"
but, said she,
Sev-
easy in great pain."
eral days before she died, she could scarcely say
any thing
but just yes and no, to questions that were asked her, for she
seemed
to
be dying for three days
but seemed to continue
any interruption,
and died as a person that went to sleep, without
any struggling, about noon, on Friday, June 27, 1735.
She had long been infirm, and often had been exercised
in
an admirable composure of
to the last
with great pain

doubtless,
soul, without
but she died chiefly of famine.
partly owing to her
nature was so often overcome, and ready

cious affection
was,
to
sink with gra-
but yet the truth was, that she had more
grace, and greater disco veiies of

present
It
bodily weakness that her
frail state
God and
did well consist with.
Christ, than the
She wanted
to
be
where strong grace might have more liberty, and be without

the clog of a weak body ; there she longed to be, and there
She was looked upon among us as a
she doubtless now is.
very eminent instance of Christian experience ; but this is a
very broken and imperfect account which I have given. I
once read it to some of her pious neighbors who were acquainted with her,
of the
life,
who
said that the picture
and particularly that
it
much
fell
failed
much
short
of duly rep-
resenting her humility, and that admirable lowliness of heart

that at all times
appeared in her.
FUKLISHED BY THE AMERICAN TRACT SOCIETY.
]\o. 79,
THE
YOUNG COTTAGER
BY REV. LEGH HICHMOND.
AN AUTHENTIC NARRATIVE. ABRIDGED.
.^l'
of
SHALL plead no apology
my
for introducing to the notice
readers a few particulars relative to a
Cottager,
whose memory
is
from the circumstance of her being, so far as
my
young female
particularly endeared to me,

I
can discover,
first-born spiritual child in the ministry of the Gospel.
She was certainly the

under
my own
first
of whose conversion to God,
pastoral instruction,
can speak with any
degree of precision and assurance.
Every parent of a family knows
that there
is
a very inter-
esting emotion of heart connected with the birth of his
born child.
But may not
first-
the spiritual parent be allowed the
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
indulgence of a similar sensation in his connection with the

children
whom
the
Lord gives him
in nature be received as a
much more
lege,
so the first-born child in
who,
record, sacred to the
was
lage where
claim
what
how
this privi-
follows, to erect a
memory of a dear little child,
my
crown of rejoicing.
the daughter of poor parents, in the vil-
pleased
it
If the first-born child
grace
day prove
trust, will at the last
Jane S
acceptable blessing,
in writing
and crave permission,
monumental
God
My acquaintance with
first to
cast
my lot in the
ministry.
commenced when she was twelve

by her weekly attendance at my house among
years of age,
a
new and
number of
children
her
whom
regularly instructed every
Saturday afternoon.
They used
to read,
repeat catechisms, psalms, hymns,
accustomed them,
also, to
pass
a kind of free examination, according to their age and
abil-
and portions of Scripture.
ity, in
those subjects
by which
hoped
to see
them made
wise unto salvation.

In the summer,
group out of doors in
some
trees,
frequently used to assemble this
my
little
garden, sitting under the shade of
which protected us from the heat of the sun.
which rendered my occupation

For adjoining the spot where we sat,
and only separated from us by a fence, was the churchyard,
From hence
the
more
a scene appeared
interesting.
surrounded with beautiful prospects in every direction.

I had not far to look for subjects of warning and exhortation suitable to
tell
my
my little flock.
pupils that,
young
could point
as they were,
to the
graves and
none of them were
young to die; and that probably more than half of the

bodies which were buried there, were those of little children.
" the resurrection and the life,"
I told them who was
too
and who alone could take away the sting of death. I used
to remind them that the hour was " coming in the which all
that are in the Gjrave shall hear his voice,
and shall come
THE YOUXG COTTAGEK.
have done good unto the resurrection of
forth; they that
and they that have done
life,
damnation."
often availed
evil unto the resurrection of
myself of these opportunities
more recent deaths of
to call to their recollection the
own
Sometimes
sent the children to the various stones
stood at the head of the graves, and bade
epitaphs inscribed upon them.

the
their
relatives.
little
which
them learn the
took pleasure in seeing
ones thus dispersed in the churchyard, each com-
mitting to
memory
a few verses written in commemoration
of the departed.
As these children surrounded me,
sometimes pointed
to
them of the nature of public worship,
the church, spoke to
the value of the Sabbath, the duty of regular attendance on

its
services,
and urged their serious attention
to the
means
many countries,
where neither churches nor Bibles were known and the
no less melancholy condition of multitudes at home, who
sinfully neglect worship, and slight the Word of God.
I
thus tried to make them sensible of their own favors and
of grace.
showed them the sad
state of
Neither was
privileges.
tions
for
Had
these his
I
a loss for another class of ob-
could draw useful instrucof nature appeared in view.
the sweet Psalmist of Israel sat in this spot, he
would have
but
I at
me from which I
many of the beauties
around
jects
glorified
handy works.
wish in
my own
God
I
poor
the Creator,
by descanting on
cannot write psalms, like David
way
to praise the
Lord
for his
goodness, and to show forth his wonderful works to the

children of men.
But had David been
also surrounded
with a troop of young scholars in such a situation, he would
once more have
said,
" Out of the mouths of babes and
sucklings hast thou ordained strength."

I
love to retrace these scenes
recollection
is
sweet.
they
are past, but the
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
4
r love
to
them
retrace
for
former mercies, which ought
they bring to
my
mind many
Lord's sake,
not, for the
to
be
forgotten.
love to retrace
them
they reassure
for
me
pleased to give
me
a valuable fruit of
Little Jane used constantly
seasons of instruction.
to
my
that, in
God was
the course of that private ministerial occupation,

labors.
appear on these weekly
made no very
particular observa-
tions concerning her, during the first twelve months.
She
any peculiar attainment.
Her
was
not then remarkable for
countenance was not engaging, her eye discovered no
markable
She read tolerably
liveliness.
re-
well, took pains,
and improved.
Mildness and quietness marked her general demeanor.
She was very constant

as well as on
my
speaking, she was
Had
duct.
scholars
in her attendance
on public worship,
Saturday instructions.
little
noticed except
for
But, generally
her regular con-
then been asked, of which of
my young
had formed the most favorable opinion, poor Jane
might probably have been omitted.
How
little
do
we
prove,
till
know what God

poor judges we
oftentimes
other people's hearts
What
he opens our eyes
thoughts, neither are our
doing in
frequently
" His thoughts are not our
ways
Once, indeed, during the
is
his
ways."
latter part of that year, I
struck with her ready attention to
my
wishes.
was
had, agree-
ably to the plan above mentioned, sent her into the church-
yard
On
to
commit
to
memory an
epitaph which
admired.
her return she told me, that in addition to what
desired, she
had
also learned another,
on an adjoining stone
had
which was inscribed
adding, that she thought
it
a very
pretty one.
I
same
and perhaps
thought so
too,
opinion.
Little Jane,
my
reader will be of the
though dead, yet shall speak.
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
While
I
I transcribe the lines I can powerfully imagine that
hear her voice repeating them
EPITAPH ON MRS.
Forgive, blest shade,
That mourns thy
tributary tear.
tlie
exit
A. B.
from a world
like this
Forgive the wish that would liave kept thee here.
And
stayed thy progress to the seats of bliss
No more confined to grov'ling scenes of night.

No more a tenant pent in mortal clay,
Now
should
And
we
rather hail thy glorious flight.
trace thy journey to the realms of day.
The above was her
appointed task
and the
other,
she voluntarily learned and spoke of with pleasure,
which
is this
EPITAPH ON THE STONE ADJOINING.

It
must be
And
soour
fatlier
All die in him
Hail, glorious Gospel
We live with comfort,

And view beyond
A life
all.
this
it
be.
not for thee.
heavenly light, whereby

and with comfort die
gloomy scene, the tomb,
of endless happiness to come.
afterwards discovered that the sentiment expressed in
the latter epitaph had
of this
little
incident
much affected her. But at the

I knew nothing of her mind.
comparatively overlooked her.

for
fall
but hopeless should we
Blest Revelation, we^-e
Adam's
disobedience, brought this lot on
it
since.
Conscience seemed
period
I
had
have often been sorry

to
rebuke me, when
afterwards discovered what the Lord had been doing for
her soul.
seemed
done designedly.
as
to
have neglected her; yet
She was unknown
to
us
all
it
was not
except that,
I since found out, her regularity and abstinence from the

8
VOL. III.
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
6
sins
and
her
many
of her young equals in age, brought upon
follies
taunts and jeers from others, which she bore
But
very meekly.
1
at that
was young myself
My
Christian experience.
time
knew
it
not.
and younger
in the ministry,
in
parochial plans had not as yet
assumed such a principle of practical order and inquiry, as

to
make me acquainted with
each family and individual
My
the character and conduct of
in
my
flock.
young scholar soon became
what true
experience of
my teacher
could accomplish,
religion
first
saw
witnessing
her
" called a
The Lord once
it.
in
little
child
unto him, and set him in the midst of his disciples," as an
emblem and an
did
more
But the Lord
illustration of his doctrine.
in the case of
little
He
Jane.
not only called
to show by a similitude what conversion

means but he also called her by his grace to be a vessel
of mercy and a living witness of that almighty power and
love by which her own heart was turned to God.
her, as a child,
;
It
was about
attendance on
fifteen
my
Two
her customary place.

without
I
was
at
my
months from the
Saturday-school,
making any
period of her
missed her from
weeks had gone by,
or three
length informed that she
away
particular inquiry respecting her.
hending no peculiar cause

passed
first
when
was
not well.
for alarm,
But appre-
nearly two months
without any farther mention of her
name
being made.
At length a poor
religious disposition
old
woman
of the village, of whose
had formed a good opinion, came and
said to me, " Sir, have you not missed Jane S

your house on Saturday afternoons ?"
" Yes,"
replied
"
believe she
is
at
not well."
"
Nor ever will be, I fear," said the woman.

"What, do you apprehend any danger in the
case ?"
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

" Sir, she
is
very poorly indeed, and
She wants
decline.
would not come
to
to see
see you,
sir
in
is
afraid
is
such a poor young child as she
" Not go where poverty and sickness
How
think
but
can she imagine so
may
is."
me
call
you
At whose house does she
?"
live
" Sir,
a poor place, and she
it is
ashamed
is
ask you
to
Her neighbors are noisy, wicked people.

They all make game at poor Jane, because she reads her
Bible so much."
come
to
"
Do
there.
not
that is the
about poor places and wicked people
called to do the most good.
is
her
n:)ay let
"I
it
me
tell
very situation where a minister of the Gospel
know my
will, sir;
go
shall
her
to see
you
intention."
go
most days
in
speak
to
to
her,
and
does one's heart good to hear her talk."

'-
Indeed
!"
said
" what does she talk about ?"
" Talk about, poor child
why, nothing but good
such as the Bible, and Jesus Christ, and
and her
and heaven and
soul,
and the books you used
to
life
and your discourses,
hell,
teach her,
Many
sir.
and say they suppose Jane counts herself
her,
other folks.
things,
and death,
But she does not mind
all
scoff at
better than
She
that.
will
read her books, and then talk so pretty to her mother, and
beg that she would think about her soul."

"
The Lord
forgive
me," thought
attentive to this poor child's case."
I,
" for not being more

I
seemed
importance of early instruction more than ever

before,
and
a kind of
I
now
on our
felt
had done
a rising hope that this girl might prove
first fruits
of
my
labors.
recollected her quiet, orderly, diligent attendance
little
v/eekly meetings
and her marked approbation
of the epitaph, as related above, rushed into

"
to feel the
I
really hope," said
I,
my
thoughts.
" this dear child will prove a true
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
And
child of God.
mercy
what a mercy
if so,
The next morning
went
and what a
found no
Her
to see the child.
Jane was
ing was of the humblest kind.

I
to her,
for me.'"'
in
bed up
one in the house with her, except the
dwellstairs.
woman
who had brought me the message on the evening before.

The instant I looked on the girl I perceived a very marked
change
her countenance
in
tive hue, both white
and
had acquired the consump-
it
red.
delicacy
unknown
before quite surprised me, owing to the alteration
duced
her look.
in
She received me
first
"
child,
am
am
at your being so ill, my

was not sooner aware of your
hope the Lord designs it for your good."
very
But
tears,
so glad to see you, sir."
much concerned
and grieved that
state.
Her
it
pro-
with a very
sweet smile, and then instantly burst into a flood of

just sobbing out, "
to
it
eye, not her tongue, powerfully expressed, " I hope
and think he does."

'
my
V/ell,
see me,
subjects
which
'
Indeed,
" That
poor child, since you can no longer come to
come and
will
see you, and
have been used
sir, I
in
will talk over the
shall be so glad."
believe she will," said the
loves to talk of nothing so
you say
we
explain to you."
to
much
your sermons, and
as
woman
" for she
what she has heard
in the books
you have given
her."
"
Are you
really desirous,
my
dear child,
to
be a true
Christian ?"
"
yes, yes,
sir,
am
sure
desire that above all
things."
I
was astonished and delighted
simplicity with
'
on
Sir,"
my
bed
added she,
for
at the eaniestness
and
which she spoke these words.

"
many weeks
have been thinking, as

past,
how good you
lay
are to in-
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

struct us poor children
what must become of us without
it?"
"
am
sickness
my
truly glad to perceive that
not been lost upon you, and pray
may
God
instructions have
that this
My
prove, humble, and sanctify you.
have often said
would
own
it
profit a
to
dear child, you have
a soul, an immortal soul, to think of; you

I
your present
be an instrument of blessing, in his hands,
remember what
you about the value of a soul

man, to gain the whole world and
to
What
lose his
soul ?"
" Yes,
sir, I
remember well you
told us that
when our
bodies are put into the grave, our souls will then go either
good or the bad place."
to the
"
And
to
which of these places do you think
sinner in the sight of God,
"
To
you deserve
to
go
that, as a
?'*
the bad one, sir."
" What, to everlasting destruction ?"
"Yes,
sir."
"Why
"
so?"
I am a great sinner."
And must all great sinners go to hell ?"
They all deserve it and I am sure I do."
But is there no way of escape ? Is there no way
" Because
"
"
"
a great sinner
to
" Yes, sir; Christ

"
And whom
for
be saved?"
is
the Saviour."
does he save ?"
" All believers."

"
And
"
do you believe in Christ yourself?"
do not know,
sir
wish
did
but
feel that 1
love him."
"
What
do you love him for ?"
" Because he
is
good
to
poor children's souls like mine,"
What has he done for you ?"

" He died for me, sir, and what
"
VOL. IIL
8*
could he do more ?"
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
IQ
"
And what
"
do you hope
good place when
gain by his death ?"
to
believe in him, and love
I die, if I
him."
Have you
"
any uneasiness on account of your
felt
soul?"
"
yes,
bear
was not
very angry with

verted
I
to
was
mocked
we
so
me
to die.
fit
had ever done and
not be
me
;'
you often
for
used
to talk to
as if I could hardly
thought of
right
my
could see that

fit
for
God would
we were not con-
Sometimes
and then again
for I
angry when
just right to be
the bad
thought
seemed
was old enough
and what was wrong; and so God
did not signify
it
all
told us, that
said, if
could not go to heaven.
young
a heart be
and that Christ
what was
had a
felt
and believed God must be
said,
a great sin to think so
to see
often
and wondered that others could seem so careless.
it,
I thought I
things
When you
a great deal.
sir,
us children on Saturdays,
was not
heart
heaven
did wrong.
right
Indeed,
knew
it
Besides, I
and how could such
sir, I
used
to feel
very
uneasy."'
"
My
dear Jane,
Why
did
you never
" Sir,
was
wish
tell
me
me
me; and
as very bold, if I
a gentleman as you
1 felt
Indeed,
durst not.
the matter with
upon
yet
at
good they supposed, or
of the
rest,
sir, I
My
could not well say what
thought you would look
you knew what

we went away from your
often wished that
and then the other children
at least to
was going
make
to
be very
people think
fancied you did not think so well of
and that hurt me; yet
dear,
this before.
me, and said
particular favor, because
"
all
?"
had spoken about myself to such
house, I could not help crying
laughed and jeered
it
Sometimes, as
and feared.
Sometimes,
had known
about
what made
knew
me
so.
as
deserved no
was the chief of sinners."

Paul say he was the chief of
St.
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
sinners
pression,
'
" This
'
a faithful saying, and worthy of
is
came
Jesus
not that right, sir ?"
tion, that Christ

is
2|
In what verse of the Bible do you find this exthe chief of sinners V
Can you repeat it ?"
my
" Yes,
child,
is
it
into the
right
world
and
to
accepta-
all
save sinners;'
hope that the same
conviction which St. Paul had at that moment, has
you
world
save sinners
to
same
of the
sensible
my
into the
dear child, remember,
now and
Christ
evermore, that Christ came into the world
for
made
came
truth.
to
save the
chief of sinners."'
" Sir,
very
ill,
want
to
"
so glad he did.
me, though
and
go
am
do not think
to Christ, if I
It
makes me hope
a poor sinful girl.

I
that he
Sir, I
am
shall ever get well again.
die."
Christ while you live, my dear child, and he will

you away when you die. He that said, Suffer
Go to
not cast
little
am
will save
'
come unto me,' waits to be gracious

them not. What made you first think
children to
them, and forbids
to
so
seriously about the state of your soul ?"
"
Your talking about the graves in the churchyard, and

how many young children were buried there. I
remember you said one da)^, near twelve months ago, Chiltelling us
'
where
you be a hundred years hence ? Children,

where do you think you shall go when you die ? Children,
dren,
if
you were
will
to die to-night, are
Christ and be
happy V
you sure you should go
Sir, I shall
to
never Jorget your say-
ing 'children' three times together in that solemn way."

" Did you never before that day
your soul ?"
" Yes,
as
that
day
All the
think
sir, I
you began
I felt
way
I first
feel
any
desire about
had that desire almost as soon
to
teach us on Saturday afternoons
as
as
never did before.
went home, and
shall
all that
but on
never forget
night, those
it.
words
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
12
were
my
in
thoughts
Children, where do you think you
'
go when you die
shall
?'
bad ways, or where should
"And what
thought
I
must leave
go when
my
off all
died ?"
produce in your
effect did these thoughts
mind?"
" Sir,
ways
tried to live better,
but the more
my heart seemed
my case.*'
so hard
" Could not you
and
and then
tell
did leave off
more
strove, the
could not
Lord,
to the
it
many bad
found
difficult I
who
tell
it,
any one
hears and an-
swers prayer?"
" My prayers (here she blushed and sighed) are very
poor at the best, and at that time
pray
at all as I
But
ought.
scarcely
knew how
to
Lord
did sometimes ask the
for a better heart."
There was a character in all this conversation which

marked a truly sincere and enlightened state of mind. She
spoke with
all
the simplicity of a child, and yet the serious-
ness of a Christian.
could scarcely persuade myself that
she was the same girl
had been accustomed
Her countenance was filled with
time.
to see in past
interesting affections,
and always spoke much more than her tongue could
At
the
same time, she now possessed an ease and
speaking, to which she had formerly been a stranger

ertheless she
readiness to
not childish
I,
nev-
to
be easily mistaken
and
in this
very
for the first time, witnessed the evident testimonies
of such a change.
own
was modest, humble, and unassuming. Her

converse was the result of spiritual anxiety,
forwardness.
The marks of a divine change
were too prominent

child
utter.
liberty in
How
encouraging,
how
profitable to
my
soul
" Sir," continued
little
was
fit
ing that
neither
comfort in this world, and
Jane, "
had one day been think-
to live or die
I
was sure
for I could find
deserved none
no
in the
"
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
On
other.
next
's
me
day you sent
that
Mrs.
headstone, and then
jg
to learn the verse
on
read that on the one
to it."
"
very well remember
repeated them both to
Jane
it,
you came back and
me."
" There were two lines in
it
which made me think and
meditate a great deal."

" Which are they ?"
"'Hail, glorious Gospel
heavenly
whereby
light,
We live with comfort, and with comfort die.'

I
wished that glorious Gospel was mine, that
and
be
die with comfort
so.
never
felt
words were often

'
in
and
so
my
it
seemed as
happy about
My
live
it
would
soul before.
The
thoughts,
Live with comfort, and with comfort
" Glorious Gospel, indeed !"
"
my
might
thought
if I
dear child, what
thought.
the
is
die.'
meaning of the word
Gospel?"
" Good news."
''
Good news
for
whom ?"
" For wicked sinners, sir."
"
Who
sends this good news for wicked sinners ?"
"The Lord Almighty."

And who brings this good news ?"
'
" Sir, you brought
Here
my
it
to wze."
soul melted in an instant, and
press the tears
which the emotion excited.
was equally unexpected and
affecting.
could not re-
The
I
last
felt
answer
a father's
tenderness and gratitude for a first-born child.
Jane wept likewise.

" O, sir
After a
little
pause she
wish you would speak
to
my
said,
father,
and
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
24
mother, and
brother
little
am
for I
afraid they are going
on very badly."
"How
so"'?"-
" Sir, they drink, and swear, and quarrel, and do not
what
like
it.
If
is
good
and
speak a word
does grieve
it
them about
to
me
it,
so, I
camiot bear
they are very angry,
me be quiet, and not set up for

am ashamed to tell you this of them,
and laugh and bid
their
teacher.
but
hope
"
Sir, I
it is
not
mean
it
for their
wish your prayers and endeavors
be blessed
I
wrong
will do also
what
good."
for their
sake
may
can."
then prayed with the child, and promised to
visit
her
constantly.
As
returned home,
ness for what
my
heart
was
filled
with thankful-
had seen and heard.
Divine grace educates the reasoning faculties of the

soul, as well as the best affections of the heart
pily consecrates
them both
to the
and hap-
glory of the Redeemer.
Neither the disadvantages of poverty, nor the inexperience

of childhood, are barriers able to resist the mighty influences
of the Spirit of God,
eth."
"
when he
goeth forth " where he
God hath chosen the foolish things of
confound the wise
this
list-
world
to
and God hath chosen the weak things
of the world to confound the things which arc mighty."

Little Jane's illness
visited her.
ally,
The
was of a lingering nature. I often

young Christian was gradu-
soul of this
but effectually preparing for heaven.
have seldom
witnessed in any older person, under similar circumstances,

stronger
marks of earnest
inquiry, continual seriousness, and
One morning as I was walking through

the churchyard, in my way to visit her, I stopped to look
at the epitaph which had made such a deep impression on
her mind.
I was struck with the reflection of the imporholy affections.
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
15
which might result from a more frequent
tant consequences
and judicious attention
to
the inscriptions placed in our
burying-grounds, as memorials of the departed.
wish that
every gravestone might not only record the names of our
name of Jesus, as
name given under heaven whereby men can be
deceased friends, but also proclaim the

the only
Perhaps,
saved.
est
of religion were to inter-
if the ministers
themselves in this matter, and accustom their people to
consult
them
as to the nature of the
which they wish
monumental
inscriptions
introduce into churches and church-
to
yards, a gradual improvement would take place in this re-
What
spect.
is offensive,
useless, or erroneous,
would no
longer find admittance, and a succession of valuable warning and consolation to the
memory
would perpetuate the
living
of the dead.
When
arrived at Jane's cottage,
reading Dr. Watts's
Hymns
found her in bed,
for Children, in
which she took
great pleasure.
" W^hat are you reading this morning, Jane ?"
" Sir,
ses in
my
have been thinking very
'
There
is
an hour when
Nor do
Let
children,
called
me
young
by death
die,
will
as
come
I,
hear their doom.
to
improve the hours
Before the day of grace
There
't
about some ver-
must
know how soon
A thousand
Are
much
Here they are
book.
little
have,
is
fled
no repentance in the grave,

Nor pardon offered to the dead.'
Sir, I
feel
's
all that to
not improve the hours

I shall not live
I say,
be very true, and

I
very long
have, as
;
ought
and when
am
afraid I do
to do.
remember
think
my
sins
THE YOUXG COTTAGER.
IQ
'
Lord, at thy feet ashamed I
Upward
my
Pardon
And
Do you
"
think he
My
" Yes,
He
It
is
them from thy

?"
sir
your prayers, and put you
his
mercy
and
to
your soul."
wish
to love
and bless him
had
some time
for
my
mind, that a
first
principles of
past occurred to
would be very desirable, from time
interesting child's sake
and
"Jane," said
but
sir,
the sight of
I,
"you can
to time, for this
thought the Church Cate-
chism would be a proper groundwork

" Yes,
for
good, very good."'
course of regulated conversations on the

religion
You have
his true children already.
have
sir, I
book.'
have great hopes that he has par-
that he has heard
number of
had strong proofs of
it.
sins before I die,
pardon me,
zcill
dear child,
doned you
into the
blot
lie,
dare not look
for that purpose.
repeat the Catechism?"
think that has been one of
my
sins in
God."
" What, repeating your Catechism ?"
"Yes,
in
sir,
"
How was
"
Very
such a way as
carelessly indeed.
meaning of the words, and

the Catechism
them
"
used
never thought about the
to
do
it."
that ?"
is full
that
must be very wrong.
of good things
wish
Sir,
understood
better."
Well
then,
my
child,
we
will talk a little about those
good things which, as you truly say, are contained in the
Did you ever consider what
Catechism.
it is
to
be a
mem-
ber of Christ, a child of God, and an inheritor of the kingdom of heaven ?"
"
and
truth.
think,
want
to
sir, I
have lately considered
it
a good deal
be such, not only in name, but in deed and in
You once
told
me,
sir,
that
'
as the branch
is to
the
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

and the stone
vine,
to the
j^
buildmg, and the limb
body
to the
and the head, so
is
a true believer to the Lord Jesus Christ.'
But how am
to
know
that
belong
member, which you said one day

same as a Ihiib of the body ?"
"
Do you
now
love Christ
Christ as a true
to
means
in the church,
way you never
in a
the
used
to
do before ?"
"Yes,
think so, indeed."

do you love him ?"
Why
"
" Because he
"
How
know
his
my
ways
way
to
instruction,
me
and taught
heart,
to
now
want
Sometimes
else.
know
me
"
Do you
now
it is
and
show me the
to
loved
wish never
my
way
that he
all
to think
;
about
and
wicked heart would
once loved any thing better
every thing
to
me."
your heart, that Christ
believe, in
feel the
and love
be saved in that
as if
first,
never have cared about him.

than religion, but
me
did not use to feel so
he had not loved
if
you
for pardon,
sir,
to
I feel
has said and done so much, that
any thing
for sinners."
and made
pray
he sent you to teach me,
be saved, and
that he pleases.
think
he died
that he first loved
me
" Because he sent

sin of
me
loved
first
do you
is
able and
feel
yourself
willing to save the chief of sinners ?"
"I do."
"
And what
"
" Is
to
are
you ?"
young, but a great sinner."

it
not of his
mercy
that
you know and
be a sinner?"
" Certainly
"
Do you
" If I
yes,
it
must be so."
earnestly desire to forsake
know
myself,
"Do you feel a spirit within you

making you hate it ?"
p
"Yes, I hope so."
VOL.
III.
all sin
?"
do."
resisting
sin,
and
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
IQ
"
Who
"
It
"
Now then, my dear
me.
gave you that
must be
was
spirit ?
who
Christ,
loved
Were you always so V

me and gave himself for
quite different once."
Jane, does not
show a con-
all this
nection between the Lord Jesus Christ and your soul

it
not
seem as
you
if
being from him
and moved, and had a
lived,
Just as the limb
Does
spiritual
connected with your
is
body, and so with your head, and thereby gets power to live
and move through the flowing of the blood from one

other
if
you
so are
you believe
" Yes,
my
member of
Do you understand me V
spiritually a limb or
in him.
sir, I
believe
thoughts to look up
do
to
and
it
is
to the
Christ,
very comfortable
to
Christ as a living head, and to
consider myself as the least and lowest of
all
mem-
his
bers."
"
Now
me what your
tell
thoughts are as
I am sure, sir, I do not deserve to be called

"Can you tell me who does deserve it?"
"
"No one, sir."

" How then comes
by nature we
"By
"
" Right
of wrath,
all
any one
to
be a child of God,
mean ?"
free favor to sinners."
and what does God bestow upon the children
when he makes them children of grace?"

sin, and a new birth unto righteousness
sir?"
is
the fruit of Christ's redeeming love
hope you are a partaker of the blessing.
named
My
when
are children of wrath ?"
does grace
" Yes, this
ren.
his child."
death unto
is it not,
is
being a
God's grace, sir."
What
" Favor
"
to
God?"
child of
after
What
him, and he
is
The
and
family of
the first-born of
many
God
breth-
a mercy that Christ calls himself 'a brother/'
little girl,
he
is
your brother
and
will not be
ashamed
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

to
own
jq
you, and present you to his Father at the last day,
as one that he has purchased with his blood."
"
wish
could love
my
are in heaven better than
a sinner
He shows
rebellious one.
and yet
am
I think, sir, if I
make
'
Father and
my
Brother which
Lord, be merciful
I do.
kindness to
to
me
am
often a
me beyond
others,
a child of God,
a very poor return.
Are these thy
favors day
by day,
To me above the rest ?

Then let me love thee more than they,
And strive to serve thee best?'"
" That will be the best
Show your
child of God.
way
to
approve yourself a real
love and thankfulness to such a
among
made you an inheritor of the kingdom of heaven, as well as a member of Christ, and a child
of God.
Do you know what the kingdom of heaven means ?"
who
Father,
hath prepared for you an inheritance
the saints in light, and
Just at
and began
instant her
tliat
to
speak
to
mother entered the house below,
younger child
in a passionate, scold-
ing tone of voice, accompanied by some very offensive lan-
guage
up
but quickly stopped, on hearing us in conversation
stairs.
" Ah,
my
poor mother !" said the
have stopped so
you hear how

her
short, if
my
"
left
Sir,
pray say something
to
7?ie."
went towards the stair-head, and called
but she suddenly
you would not
had not been here.
Mr.
mother goes on
she will not hear
girl,
to the
woman
the house, and for that time escaped
reproof.
" Sir," said

I shall
sir, for
and
little
never see
Jane, "
hours together, there
noise,
am
so afraid, if
my poor mother there.

is
often so
and quarrelling down below,
go
to
heaven,
As I lie here abed,

much wickedness,
that I do not know
THE YOUXG COTTAGER.
20
how
bear
to
and go
to
comes very near,
It
it.
and mother go on
so.
heaven.
want them
me now,
Tell
when
sir,
one's father
turn to the Lord,
to
all
something about being
sir,
an inheritor of the kingdom of heaven."'
"You may remember, my

when
kingdom of heaven
what
child,
explaining the Catechism
means
in the Scriptures,
'
have
in the church,
told
you,
that 'the
the church
of Christ upon earth as well as the state of glory in heaven.
The one
are
a preparation for the other.
is
inherit the glory
and happiness of
and be with him
Christ,
God
All true Christians
heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ,' and shall
'
to his
adopted children
and
kingdom, and
his
for ever.
This
all
is
live with
the free gift of
that believe aright in
Christ shall experience the truth of that promise,
'
It is
a poor girl now, but
trust,
'
an entrance
your
You
Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.'
are
shall be ministered
unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our
Lord and Saviour Jesus
you not willing

those things to
Christ.'
You
to suffer for his sake,
which he
to
now
but are
bear patiently
you ?"
calls
" O, yes, very willing
suffer
and
would not complain.
It is all
right."
my
" Then,
dear,
you
tribulation
God
but tribulation worketh patience
perience
and experience, hope.
Christ, shovv^ yourself to be
your portion
heaven.
way
it
to
He
is
unto the Lord
a true
member
of
a dutiful child of God, and
an inheritor
in the
that hath promised
trust also in him,
and patience, ex-
As
the
and he
kingdom of
commit thy
shall bring
pass."
"
And
will be that of
Faithful
Through
kingdom of
shall reign with him.
you may perhaps enter
much
Thank you,
I
sir
do so love
think, sir, I should not love
no part
in them.
Sir, there is
to
hear of these things.
them
one thing
so
I
much,
want
to
if I
had
ask you.

THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
a great thing, and
It is
and yet
hope
Here she
What
"
mean
liesitated
is it ?
tear rolled
right
be wrong
"
21
am
so
young
and paused.
do not be fearful of mentioninoo it."

a slight blush colored
down her cheek

She
her countenance.
moment, and
may
up her eyes
to heaven for a
them on me, with a solemn, affecting
fixing
lifted
look, said,
''
May
young a poor
so
Lord's Supper
not to mention
it,
"
My dear
be very glad
have
am
be admitted to the
some time wished
you should think
it
it.
but dared
wrong."
have no doubt respecting
it,*
and shall
converse with you on the subject, and hope
own
has given you the desire, will bless his
Would you wish
ordinance to your soul.

morrow ?"
" To-morrow,
row and
child as
for
for fear
Jane,
to
He who
that
talk to
if
me
shall be thankful.
you
Will you come

you think
growing
now hope
please, sir
about
I
now, or
it
am
it
and
to-
to-mor-
if
it
faint
proper,
to
be
when you come again."

was much pleased with her proposal, and rejoiced in
prospect of seeing so young and sincere a Christian thus
better
I
the
devote herself to the Lord, and receive the memorials of a

Saviour's love to her soul.
Disease was making rapid inroads upon her constitution,
and she was aware of
it.
But
as the
outward
man
decayed,
she was strengthened with might by God's Spirit in the

inner man.
She was evidently ripening
fast for
a better
world.
* It will be perceived, that this interesting and excellent Tract
is
from the pen of a devout Episcopalian; and in publishing
incident entire,
it
may be
proper to say,
that'
the Publishing
this
Com-
mittee would not be understood to express any opinion in relation

to the practice of administering the Lord's
VOL.
III.
9*
Supper
in private.
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
22
remember
these things with affectionate pleasure.
hope the recollection does
good
my
to thee, likewise,
me
good.
reader
wish them
and therefore
to
do
write
them down.
I
was
so
much
my
affected with
last visit to little Jane,
and particularly with her tender anxiety respecting the

Supper, that
Lord's
it
formed the chief subject of
my
thoughts for the remainder of the day.

I
rode in the afternoon to a favorite spot, where
times indulged in solitary meditation
The next morning
went
woman who
ing the door, the
me, and
my
on the interesting case of
to reflect
to
and where
little
some-
wished
disciple.
Jane's cottage.
On
enter-
so frequently visited her
met
said,
"Perhaps,
you
sir,
will not
wake her
has dropped asleep, as she seldom gets
just yet; for she
much
rest,
poor
girl."
I
went gently up
Bible open before her.
and tranquil.
child
upon her
was
in a half-sitting
right hand, with her
She had evidently
Her countenance was
while reading.
probably
The
stairs.
posture, leaning her head
fallen
asleep
beautifully composed
few tears had rolled down her cheek, and,
unknown
to her,
dropped upon the pages of her
book.
I
looked around
me
for a
moment.
wardly comfortless and uninviting

the sloping roof
uneven
legged
many
The room was
out-
the walls out of repair
somewhat shattered
the floor broken and
no furniture but two tottering bedsteads, a three-
stool,
the window broken in

mended with patches of paper. A little
and an old oak chest
places, and
shelf against the wall, over the bedstead
where Jane
lay,
served for her medicine, her food, and her books.
"Yet
Aere,"
said to myself, "lies an heir of glory
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

waiting for a happy dismissal.
indeed
but she has a house not
She has
in the heavens.
little
23
Her earthly home

made with hands,
to attach
her
mean, despised chamber,

it
contains one that

I
a palace in the eye of
is
world
to this
but what a weight of glory in the world to come
poor
is
eternal
This
faith, for
an inheritor of a crown.''
is
approached without waking her, and observed that she
had been reading the twenty-third chapter of St. Luke. The
hand lay upon the book, pointing
finger of her left
words, as
she had been using
if
she read.
to the
guide her eye while
to
it
looked at the place, and was pleased at the
apparently casual circumstance of her finger pointing to

these words
remember me when thou comest
" Lord,
into
thy kingdom."
" Is this casual, or designed ?" thought
it
But
remarkable."
is
that her finger
moment
in another
was indeed an index
" Either
to the
way
discovered
thoughts of her
She half awoke from her dozing state, but not sufficiently so to perceive that any person was present, and said
heart.
in a kind of a whisper,
" Lord, remember me remember me

remember
"
remember a poor child Lord, remember me
She then suddenly started, and perceived me, as she became fully awake a faint blush overspread her cheeks for
a moment, and then disappeared.

" Dame K
how long have
"
am very sorry
"
may
And
am very
glad to find you thus,"
say with David,
for the
'
laid
Lord sustained me.'
"
The
"
How
"
To
Sir, I
replied
" you
me down and slept I awaked

What were you reading ?"
;
history of the crucifying of Jesus, sir."

far
had you read when you
the prayer of the thief that
and when
been asleep
came
to
that
place
fell
was
I
asleep ?"
crucified with
stopped,
him
and thought
THE YOUNG COTTAGEK.
24
what a mercy
ber
me
dream
it
likewise
would
and
Lord Jesus should remem-
be, if the
so
asleep,
fell
and
fancied in
my
saw Christ upon the cross ; and I thought I

said,
Lord, remember me
and I am sure he did not look
angry upon me and then I awoke."
All this seemed to be a sweet commentary on the text,
that I
'
'
and a most suitable forerunner of our intended sacramental

service.
" Well,
to
my
dear child,
am
come, as you wished me,
administer the memorials of the body and blood of our
you
blessed Saviour to
and
dare say neighbor
will be glad to join us."

''
Talk
to
me
Christ himself.
about
little
" Well, you know
this is
The Lord
it first, sir,
an
to,
rightly believing on his

ner, preserves
mark which we behold
and bestows on
What
all
name and work.
among us
death, and of the benefits
"
by
a token of his love, grace, and blessing,
It is
which he promises
you please."
has ordained bread and wine in
the holy Supper, as the outward
with our eyes.
if
institution established
a continual
who
He,
receive
in this
it,
man-
remembrance of
his
which we receive thereby.
do you believe respecting the death of Christ,
Jane ?"
" That because he died,
"
What
"
The
life
life
do
we
of grace and
and happiness hereafter

" Yes, assuredly
sir,
we
live."
thereby ?"
live
mercy now, and
is it not, sir
of glory
to all believers.
strengthen and refresh your poor, weak,
fainting body, in this very sickness

his
life
this is the fruit of the death of Christ
and thus he opened the kingdom of heaven
As bread and wine
the
?"
so does the blessing of
body and blood strengthen and refresh the souls of
those that repose their faith, hope, and affections on
loved us and gave himself for us."
all
him who
"
THE YOUXG COTTAGER.
25
Tears ran down her cheeks as she

Saviour
O, what a
is this for
And
me ?"
my
" Fear not,
him
said, "
O, what a sinner How kindhow good

child
you
thus, loves
He
made you
that has
He
deny you.
too well to
love
to
will in
no
wise cast out any that come to him."

" Sir," said the girl, "
can never think about Jesus, and
his love to sinners, without
wondering how
me
then does he love
he love
me
My
heart
continually forget
then does he love
me ?
all
can be.
sins
why
why
then does
his goodness
why
neither pray to him, nor thank
him, nor do any thing, as

me ?"
evil
is
it
my
deserve nothing but his anger on account of
ought
to
do
why
then such love
to
"
How
plain
it is
that all
that sweetens the blessing,

to give Christ all the
the
honor of your salvation, and
blame of your
sins on
" Yes, indeed,
sir, I
'
mercy from first to last and

child.
Are you not willing
is
my
to
take
all
your own self?"
am.
My hymn
says,
Blest be the Lord, that sent his
Son
To take oiir flesh and blood

He for our lives (rave up his own,
To make our peace Avith God.
He
honored
all his
Which we have
He
Father's laws,
disobeyed
bore our sins upon the cross,
And
our
full
ransom
paid.'
"I am glad you remember your hymns so well, Jane."

know what pleasure they give me. I
am very glad you gave me that little book of hymns for
" Sir, you don't
children."
A
while.
severe
fit
of coughing interrupted her speech for a
The woman
held her head.
It
was
distressing
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
26
to observe
her struggle for breath, and almost, as
were,
it
for life.
"Poor dear!"
and ease
thee,
"
could help
but they will not last for ever."
" God helps me," said the girl, recovering her breath,
God helps me he will carry me through. Sir, you
;
look frightened
now.
better
troublesome
me again
"What
not afraid
nothing
this is
you, dame, thank you.
but the
Lord
me:
to
you
will bless
yes,
sir,
and yours
very
and
for this
Now
too.
am
am
all
talk
about the Lord's Supper."
There are
five things
do you remember what
She paused
gent look, "
them who come
required, Jane, of
is
Lord's Supper
chism
am
Thank
your kindness
to
woman, "I wish
said the
_thy pains
is
the
named
first
?"
and then said with a solemn and
To examine
the
to
in the Cate-
intelli-
themselves whether they repent
truly of their former sins."
"
the
"
No
been
and
hope and think that you know what
Jane
Lord has given you the
one knows,
what the thoughts of past
hope he forgives
cleanseth from
till
sir,
tremble, and
offended such a
it
God
me
sins
His blood
sometimes think of
makes me cry
my
think that
to
and then he comforts
have
enough
is
for Christ's sake.
Sir, I
all sin.
means,
this
of repentance."
Yes, the Lord knows, and that
me.
to
spirit
me
sins
have
again with
sweet thoughts about Christ."

"
It is
well,
tioned in that
my
child
be
it
so.
" Steadfastly purposing to lead a
"
And what
"
My
life, sir,
will be a short
But from
be a new one for the time

evil
next thing menis it ?"
new
life."
do you think of that ?"
been a better one.
my
The
answer of your Catechism, what
ways and
to
my
one
heart
come.
and
I
wish
desire that
want
to
had
it
it
may
forsake
all
thoughts, and evil words, and evil com-
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

panions
me
am
and
wish they
"
The
my
do not,
pray
sir, I
and what
right, sir,
is
afraid
God
to
may
my
My days
tell
But
Bible.
However,
so full of sin.
is
help me.
to
27
me and what you
bids
read of in
heart
few; but
will be
be spent to the glory of God."
blessing of the
whether you
God
do what
to
you may
you
die,
ing,
you may be
Lord be upon you, Jane
you may
live,
live to the
die unto the
Lord
and
What
the Lord's.
Lord
is
so that,
or whether
that, living or
dy-
the next thing men-
tioned ?"
"
To have
mercy through
a lively faith in God's
Christ,
sir."
"
Do you
believe that
God
merciful to you in the par-
is
sins ?"
don of your
"
I do, sir,"
"
And
if
said the child, earnestly.
he pardons you,
is
your own sake,
for
it
Jane ?"
" No,
sir,
no
for
is
it
"
must not mistrust him
Sir, I
" Right, child

"
And
then,
of his death.
he
am
sir, T
to
Christ
good
to
me.
all
wish
him
But
thief on the cross
me
too,
Saviour
I if I
might."
your trust."
have a thankful remembrance
it
was
How
all for
shall
and yet he
Sir, I
think
is
so
have been
could the people do as they
our salvation.
that is beautiful.
and that
am
could thank him.
reading about his death.

did to
my
all."
can never think of his dying, but
is
nor would
what a poor unworthy creature
also
ber
worthy of
is
sake, for
Christ's
Jesus Christ's sake, and that only

" Can you trust him ?"
And
then the
hope he will remem-
always remember him and
his
death most thankfully."
And lastly, Jane, are you in charity with all men ?

Do you forgive all that have offended you ? Do you bear
"
ill-will in
your heart
to
any body ?"
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
28
"
Dear
no
sir,
how can
he forgives me, how can
is
not a person in all the world,
God
If
I ?
if
so good to me,
is
help forgiving others
think,
There
whom
sir, to
do
not wish well for Christ's sake, and that from the bottom of
my
heart."
How
"
tempered
do you
regard
feel in
girls at the next door,
to those bold,
who
wanton,
ill-
mock you
jeer and
so
about your religion ?"

is, that God may give
may change their hearts, and
wicked ways and words. May he forgive
" Sir, the worst thing
them grace
pardon
repent
to
all their
them, as
do with
She ceased
" O,
I
soul
wished
then said, "
my
all
"Can this be
that we were all
full.
wish them
that he
to
!"
My
ask no more.
was
heart
the religion of a child?" thought
children like her
My
dear friends,
blessing, partake with
you
in the
!"
now, with God's
will
holy communion of our
Lord's body and blood."
The
time was sweet and solemn.
went through the
sacramental service.
The countenance and manner
of the child evinced pow-
Tears mingled with smiles
erful feelings.
brightened by hope
resignation
humility animated by faith
childlike
modesty adorned with the understanding of a riper age

tude, peace, devotion, patience
When
had concluded the
all
service,
dear Jane, you are indeed a
sister in the
May
rest
"
said, "
grati-
visible.
Now, my
church of Christ.
upon you
strengthen and
you
My
mercies are great, very great,
thank you
young seemed
much
can express
too
and blessing
his Spirit
!"
refresh
were
these
am now
it
too
sure the Lord
done right."
sir,
for this favor
is
good
for
to
me
greater than
thought
but
to think of;
me, and
hope
was
I
have
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

" Yes, Jane
Ghost
to the
" Sir,
Nor
29
you are sealed by the Holy
trust
day of redemption."
never forget
shall
"Neither,
"
and
this
day."
think, shall I."
woman
good old
I," said the
" sure the Lord
has been here, in the midst of us three to-day, while

been gathered together in his name."
" Sir," said the child, "
wish you could speak
mother when you come again.

soul; and I
am
am
to
my
so grieved about her
she cares nothing at
afraid
we have
all
about
it
herself."
"
hope
have an opportunity the next time
shall
come. Farewell, my child."

" Good-by, sir, and I thank you
your kindness
for all
to
me."
" Surely,"
thought within myself as
the cottage,
I left
" this young bud of grace will bloom beauteously in paradise.
The Lord
Yet, if
it
transplant
be his will,
farther profit
may
it
thither in his
she live a
little
own good
time!
I
may
She
still,
longer, that
by her conversation and example."
Jane was hastening
fast to
her dissolution.
converse with
however, preserved sufficient strength
to
much
who
satisfaction
herself and those
to
visited
her.
Such as could truly estimate the value of her spiritual state

yet the most careless could not help
of mind were but few
;
being struck with her affectionate seriousness, her knowledge of the Scriptures, and her happy application of them to
" The holy spark divine," which regenerather own case.
ing grace had implanted in her heart, brightened as she
drew near the
close of
life,
and kindled
into a flame
To
some,
suaded, her example and conversation were
made
warmed and animated
Memory
VOL.
reflects
III.
the beholder.
with gratitude, while

10
write,
which
am
per-
a blessing.
on the
profit
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
30
and consolation which
Nor
ciety.
alone.
individually derived from her so-
The
day
last
will, if I err not, disclose
farther fruits, resulting from the love of
child
and, through her, to others that
God
saw
to this little
her.
And may
not hope indulge the prospect, that this simple memorial of
her history shall be as an arrow drawn from the quiver of

the
Almighty
to
reach the heart of the young and thought-
O my God
May
the eye that
less ?
Direct
reads,
and the ear that hears, the record of
its
course,
Jane,
little
through the power of the Spirit of the Most High, each
become a witness
for the truth as
it is
in Jesus
remembered the tender solicitude of this dear child for

her mother.
I wxll knew what a contrast the dispositions
and conduct of her parents exhibited, when compared with
I
her own.
I
resolved to avail myself of the
seize, to
speak
morning soon
to the
after the
another path for
a mile from
mother
my
opportunity
interview above related,
my visit. The
house.
first
The
was
distance
could
One
in the child's presence.
chose
not quite half
path was retired.
hereby
avoided the noise and interruption which even a village

street will
sometimes present
calmness of
to disturb the
in-
teresting meditation.
As I passed through the churchyard and cast my eye

on the memorable epitaph, " Soon," I thought within me,
" will
my
poor
little
Jane mingle her mouldering remains
with this dust, and sleep witli her fathers

youthful tongue, which
David, and delights
my
now
lisps
Soon
Hosannas
to the
will the
Son of
heart with the evidences of early
piety and grace, be silent in the earth
Soon
shall
be
called to
commit her body
ashes to
ashes, dust to dust.'
change
Her spirit shall have then returned to God, who

Her soul will be joining the hallelujahs of para-
gave
it.
to the
ground,
'
earth to earth,
But O, what a glorious
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
we
while
dise,
gj^
And
sing her requiem at the grave.
very dust shall here wait,
her
in sure and certain hope of a

joyful resurrection from the dead.' "
went through the
vidual.
'
without meeting a single indi-
fields
my
enjoyed the retirement of
surrounding objects contributed
various
walk;
solitary
excite useful
to
meditation, connected with the great subjects of time and
was now arrived at the stile nearly adjoining

The upper window was open, and I soon
distinguished the sound of voices.
I was glad to hear that
eternity.
her dwelling.
of the mother.
entered the house door unperceived by
down below,
those above stairs, and sat
" Mother
soul
you
die
mother
But
short.
have not long
have a
soul,
O my mother,
my ear.
My time
dear, I shall lose
to live.
must, indeed
your sake, before
^you
"
very
will be
thing, for
not wishing as yet
a conversation which quickly caught
to interrupt
I die.
must, say some-
mother
am
you have a
my
child
she
and what
she sobbed
will die
Jane ?"
" Mother, think about your soul.
Have
are gone,
when
it
uneasy about your soul."
so
my
when you
shall I do
and what will become of
aloud.
not
you neg-
lected that?"
" Yes,
have been a wicked sinner, and not loved that
What can
which was good.

" Mother, you
my child,
" Jane,
my
life.
am
" Mother,
time
but
must pray
You must
Christ's sake.
too
was
any thing about
do ?"
to
God
cannot pray
wicked
to
pardon you,
for
afraid to do
it.
and
never did pray
in all
pray."
have been wanting

yourself,
to
pray."
to
You
speak
to
you a long
me
did not like
did not
know how
But indeed, mother, I must speak now, or

was here, for he could
I wish Mr.
it
may
talk to
to
say
to begin.
be too
you
late.
better
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
32
than
But perhaps you
can.
as
it is,
fit
to
when
am
dead.
speak about such things
you belong
to
me, and
My
ing for ever.
what
will think of
am
say, poor
but a young child, and not
any body.
to
cannot bear
to
But, mother,
think of your perish-
me my
Lord and Saviour has shown
own sins and corruptions he loved me, and gave himself

he died, and he rose again I want to praise him
for me
;
for
it
but
for
ever and ever.
want
to see
hope
I shall
too,
mother.
you there
see
him
heaven
in
Do, pray do, both
father and you, leave off swearing and all other bad
go
for wicked simiers.

He
He taught me the way, and he will
Do not be angry with me, mother I
and what he has done
Christ,
wishes well
to souls.
teach you, mother.
only speak for your good.
are about the things of God.
was
ways
church and hear our minister speak about Jesus
to
in the
was once
But
as careless as
"Yes,
error.
broad road leading to destruction, like
other children in the parish, and the Lord
mercy upon
my
have seen
you
I
many
saw me, and had
me.''
my child,
you was always a good
girl,
and mind-
ed your book."
" No, mother, no
goodness, nor
my
member, mother,
till
cared nothing about
the minister
came and
that at first
you
sent for
Don't you
me
did not like
to go,
i*e-
and
you would have no such godly, pious doings about your
house
and that
than
fields,
to
went
for,
soul.
had better play about the
Ah, mother
made game
and what God designed
But, thank God,
of salvation.
As
be laughed at and
ing to be so good.
to
not always.
you know, on Saturday afternoons.
us, as
said
Bible,
Mother,
you
for
streets
did not
know what
me and my poor
it
conversation,
sinful
did go, and there learned the
wish you had learned
I listened to this affecting
and
of for pretend-
way
too."
it
appeared
me, from the tone and manner of the mother's voice, that
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
33
she was more under the influence of temporary grief, on
account of her child's extreme
from any real sense of her
and rejoiced
to
tions dropping
than sincere sorrow
illness,
sins.
however hoped the
best,
hear such weighty and important exhorta-
from her daughter's
circumstances rendered
it
far
lips.
I felt
that present
more valuable than
my own
could have been.
have
often, since that time,
much
less
relative.
ments of
sin,
and heard their professions of amendment.
But, after a short season,
The
ing dew.
world and
new
with
seen the wicked and care-
by the dying bed of a near

have witnessed their temporary acknowledg-
affected while sitting
its
all
has passed away like the morn-
friend has been buried out of sight.

cares, the flesh
and
sins,
its
The
have returned
temptations, and the eloquence of iniquity has
prevailed over the voice of truth.
On
how
the other hand,
frequently have the death-beds
of true believers been blessed to the eye-witnesses of the
triumphs of grace over
and
sin, death,
careless bystander received the
hell
Often has the
saving impression of
first
divine truth, while the dying Christian has experienced
and
testified the
supports of love and
mercy
in the trying
At such seasons, faith wields a bright and burning

which occasionally softens the hardest, and warms
hour.
torch,
expressions of that heavenly con-
The
the coldest heart.
which the Holy Spirit vouchbecome the happy means of grace and
solation and devout solicitude,
safes to some, thus
blessing for the conversion and edification of others.
At
this
moment
the house door opened, and a younger
child, a brother of Jane's,
who
above,
it
was
came
in.
the boy replied
The mother asked from

;
and, without farther
inquiry, she remained in the chamber.

lad to
that I
down quietly
was below.
sit
VOL.
III.
and thus
10=^
it still
beckoned
to
the
remained unknown
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
34
" Mother," continued Jane, " that
is
soon be your only remaining child.
him
to follow
good ways; send him
boy, but
hope he will be brought
brother, and will
to
Mr.
and he
He
me.
is
a wild
think about his soul in
to
Those naughty, wicked boys teach him to swear and

all manner of evil.
Lord help him to
time.
and run after
fight,
from the wrath
flee
to
been
will be kind to him,' as he has
my
Do, pray, encourage
made
come
to
!"
a sign to the boy to listen to
He seemed
concerning him.
down
tear dropped
" Ay, Jane,
it
what
his sister said
hear with attention, and a
to
his cheek.
hoped he
is
and that we
will,
shall
all
likewise."
" Mother, then you must
can do
turn from sin

it
and
without
but seek, and you shall find

for
my
my
sake, and
thought
and
it
time
said, "
May
Mercy on me
"
Come
for
entered, and
brother's sake."
sobbed, without replying.
hope
!" said the
mother,
said Jane, "
'
am
there
."
Mr.
is
looked rather confused, Jane smiled as
shall be forgiven both
speak
to
about which
by mother and daugh-
remained so long below
hope of finding you together, as
you of
now
very glad you are
stairs,
conversation which has just taken place.
You have
welcomed me, as usual.
for liaving
time past
never do
your own sake,
Mother, set a chair."
71010.
Do,
it.
repent and
will
appear, went to the bottom of the stairs,
in, sir,"
The woman
"
little
God you
a friend come up ?"
"
come
ter,
to
You must
that.
the grace of
The woman wept and
Nothing you
flee to Christ.
you without
will save
to
your
say your daughter
state
in the
for
some
on the same subjects
long neglected these things, and
the danger of
during the
came
have had a wish
you, Sarah,
am happy to
is
so anxious.
wished
to
but Jane has said
warn
all
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

and
could desire,
35
now solemnly ask you whether you
are
much affected by your poor child's faithful conversation ?

You ought to have been her teacher, and instructor
whereas now she is become
in the ways of righteousness
not
yours.
Happy, however,
and consider your
will
be for you,
it
you are wise
if
and the things which belong
latter end,
your peace, before they are hidden from your eyes

at
your dying
and think of your other and only
child,
maining one, and say whether
upon you
to
hear and
re-
aloud
this sight does not call
fear.''
Jane's eyes wêre filled with tears while
woman hung
to
Look
The
spoke.
her head down, but betrayed some emotions
of dislike at the plain dealing used towards her.

"
My
child,
" Sir,
faint
since
Jane," said
my mind
and weary, but

I last
Lord sees
"
I,
how
are
you to-day ?"
have been talking a good deal, and
saw you.
1
fit.
am
quite willing to die,
have no wish
way
friends in a better
afraid to speak to
them
to live,
before
but
except
depart.
I feel
There was a firmness,
was
child
seemed
to
be
lost in that
when
the
to see
my
used
Sir, I
to-day as if
may
uttered, that surprised
be
it
my peace no longer, and I must tell them what

done for my soul, and what I feel for theirs."
this
feel rather
has been veiy easy and happy
to
be
could hold
the
Lord has
say dignity, with w^hich
The
me.
character of the
of the Christian
her natural
timidity yielded to a holy assurance of manner, resulting
from her
own inward
consolations, mingled with spiritual
desire for her mother's welfare.
upon her otherwise
This produced a flush
pallid countenance,
which
in
degree added to her interesting appearance.

lay open before her as she sat up in the bed.
right
hand she inclosed her mother's.
" Mother, this book you cannot read

fore
no small
The Bible
With her
go constantly
to
church, that you
may
you should
hear
it
there-
explained.
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
36
It is
God's book, and
and mind
will learn
your
Do
soul.
going
be so kind,
I
say, and this gentleman
is
to
him
able to save to the uttermost
him
he waits
mercy.
wish
heaven
to
save
soon
is
no salvation
he will save
all that
upon
cast yourself
he
come
his
"
in a kind of
fit.
Her mother observed

main
hope you
may
I am
in the blood of Christ
be gracious
wish
Mother, remember what
She was quite overcome, and sunk away

fainting
it
brother; and will you
witness: there
is
you and me, but
for sinners like
my
this Bible to
as to instruct
sir,
to
with God's blessing
think of that, mother, pray do.
Give
to die.
it
way
us the
tells
some
insensible for
improved
this interval in a serious address to the
man, and then prepared
was
that Jane
would now probably
that she
too
re-
time, before she recovered.
much
my
take
to
exhausted
wo-
departure, perceiving
for farther conversation
at that time.
As
was leaving
again soon,
I
sir
returned
my
the
home by
before chosen.
room
time
the child said faintly, "
the
same
retired road
silently meditated
had witnessed.
nary child
Surely,
What
to doubt, after this,
salvation
gift ?
thought, this
me
is
weak
had
in the scene
Is
possible
it
alone the Author and Finisher of
is
the
mercy of Jehovah
perfect
!
Hath
things of the world to confound
the things which are mighty ?"

;
an extraordi-
whom cometh every good and
rich and free
not he " chosen the
presence
is
cannot grace accomplish
who
or from
How
which
on the eminent proofs
of piety and faith which were just afforded

I
Come
very short."
is
but he that glorieth,
let
Let no
flesh glory in his
him glory
in the Lord.
At a very early hour cm the morning of the following

1 was awoke by the arrival of a messenger, bringing
day,
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

an earnest request that
not yet
her end appeared
child, as
day when
The morning
would immediately go
to
my
left
giy
to the
be just approaching.
house
was
It
obey the summons.
to
The moon
star shone conspicuously clear.
cast a mild light over the prospect, but gradually diminished

in brightness, as the eastern
were beginning
birds
come
My
the sun's approach.
The
sky became enlightened.
and seemed ready
their song,
mind, as
wel-
to
proceeded, was
deeply exercised by thoughts conceining the affecting events
which
expected soon
lustre of this
far spent
I
"
think he will
him before
ascended the
Her
at
found no one below
come
girl's voice
?
night
paused a
was
When
hand.
very faintly saying,
should be so glad
so glad
die."
stairs
her
together with the elderly
father, mother,
woman
and brother,
before spoken
were
of,
in
Jane's countenance bore the marks of speedy
the chamber.
dissolution.
rays of the morn-
sight as the spiritual
young Christian's character.

morning of a better day was
arrived at the house,
Do you
my
the
few minutes, and heard the

to see
The
to witness.
ing star were not so beautiful in
Yet although death was manifest
in the
lan-
guid features, there was something more than ever interesting in the whole of her external aspect.
saw me, a renewed vigor beamed

affection sparkled in the
in
The moment
her eyes
she
grateful
dying face.
Although she had spoken just before I entered, yet for

some time afterwards she was silent, but never took her
There was animation in her look there was
eyes off me.
more
felt,
even
something
like a foretaste of
heaven seemed
to
be
and gave an inexpressible character of spiritual beauty

in death.
At length she said, " This is very kind, sir I am going

I was afraid I should never see you again in this
fast
world."
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
38
I said,
My
"
you resigned
child, are
to die
?"
"Quite."
"
Where
She
is
lifted
your hope ?"
up her
and then
finger, pointing to heaven,
same downward
directed the
to
her
own
heart, saying suc-
cessively as she did so, " Christ there, and Christ here.^'
These words, accompanied by the

meaning more solemnly than can
spoke her
action,
easily be conceived.
momentary spasm took
weeping mother, she

matter,
Looking towards her

place.
"I am very cold, but it is no
said,
will soon be over."
it
She closed her eyes
about a minute, and on opening
for
them again she said, " I wish, sir, v>^hen I am gone you
would tell the other children of the parish how good the Lord
has been
to
him early
ignorance are the
him
way
from me, that Christ
the
life
he
tliat I,
will in
tell
them, that they
who seek
them, that the ways of sin and
tell
and
to ruin
sir,
them
me, a poor sinner
will find
hell
and pray
tell
them,
indeed the way, the truth, and
is
no wise cast out any that come.

"
Tell
a poor girl
She was quite exhausted, and sunk
for a
while into a
torpid state, from which, however, she recovered gradually,
uttering these
was going
"
who
My
O, how
save me, help
me
good,
through
his rod
and
"
long
merciful
to
be
Jesus,
this last trial."

to
her father, the other
to
her
God bless you, God bless you seek the

it may be for your
think of me when I am gone
remember your souls O, for Christ's sake, remem-
mother, and said, "
good
thought
through the
staff
do," said she
how great, how
She then gave one hand
Lord
shadow of death."
believe so, indeed
with him
I ?
dear child, you will soon be for ever in his arms,
valley of the
I
Where am
"
me.'^
now guiding you by
is
"
expressions
Lord, save
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

ber your souls
what
have
then
dear father and mother
be well you cannot know

Lord, pardon and save my
may
all
both of you
felt for
39
!"
She then took hold of her brother's hand, saying,

" Thomas, I beg of you to leave off your bad ways
read the
Bible
give you mine
Do you
have found
it
a precious book.
remember our little brother, who died some

was praying to the last moment of his
life.
Learn to pray while you are in health, and you will
find the comfort and power of it when you come to die
but first of all, pray for a new heart without it you never
your present way leads to misery
will see God in heaven
and ruin may the Lord turn your heart to love and follow
him!"
not
years since
he
To
the other
for all
woman
she said, "
your kindness since
have been a Christian friend
remember you
and
for
it,
you
hope the Lord
according to his rich mercy.
but blessed be his name, I
thought
him
me, and
ill
have
though
quite
have been
You
many a time talked together about death and
am the youngest, he calls me first to pass through
will
it;
to
Dame
thank you.
happy now
he
" Ah,
am
is
the
my
it
God
is
come
and so
woman,
you are ; but I fear that

have been many, very many."
" Christ's blood cleanseth from
this
feel
you
trust
will
"
wish
never be
all sin," said
was
as
my
fit
sins
the child.
moment, instead of growing weaker, through the
fatigue of so
strength.
will you, if
once
but indeed
both of the old and the young."
child !" said the
to die as
At
not terrified.
never could die without fear
much
speaking, she seemed to gather fresh
She turned
to
me
with a look of surprising ear-
nestness and animation, saying,
" You,
sir,
have been
me
the
way
taught
to
my best friend on earth
heaven, and
you have
love and thank
you
for

THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
40
you have borne with my weakness and my ignorance

and he has
of
me of
him
made me
my heart
never leave me nor
same, and
he
mehe
it
you have spoken

feel
it
face to face
see
I shall
forsake
will
changes
The
ertion,
Christ,
the love
to
in
Dear
not.
sir,
God
the
you."
bless
and with an unexpected ex-
child suddenly rose up,
threw her
is
wasted arms around me, as
livid,
my
the bedside, laid her head on
I sat
on
shoulder, and said distinct-
give thanks me him

me.
we
we
meet
heaven,
O yes^then
"
be peace peace peace
and spoke no more fetched
She sunk back on
and
a deep
ly,
"
God
my
reward you
bless and
soul
saved
is
shall
Christ
not
shall
in
for
every thing
is
to
Sir,
to
yes,
all
will
the bed,
sigh
At
smiled,
this affecting
sun darted
into the
died.
moment
the
rays of the morning
first
room, and seemed
to
describe the glorious
change which her soul had now experienced.
For some time

less corpse,
remained
silently
was indeed no longer there.

As I returned homeward,
the strong feelings of affection

excited.
gazing on the breath-
and could hardly persuade myself that Jane
Neither did
wish
it.
found
it
difficult to repress
which such a scene had

Religion, reason, and ex-
perience rather bid us indulge, in due place and season,

those tender emotions which keep the heart alive to
valuable sensibilities.
sorrows of Jerusalem.
Jesus himself
He
icept
its
most
over the foreseen
icept also at the
grave of his
Such an example consecrates the tear of

while it teaches us, concerning them which are
friend Lazarus.
affection,
asleep, not to "sorrow, as those that

I
soon
fell into
have no hope."
meditation on the mysterious subject of
the flight of a soul from this world to that of departed spirits.
" Swifter than the rays of light from the sun, has this child's
spirit
hastened, in obedience to
its
summons from God,
to
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
this
But, washed in the blood of the
and happily made partaker of

meets her welcome
that
was
is
slain,
through the power of
He
Sin, death,
Him who
and
hath
will himself present
Father, as one of the purchased lambs of his flock
to his
as one
Lamb
of God.
made her more than conqueror.

her
solemn a truth
purifying efficacy, she
its
at the throne
hell are vanquished,
41
How
appear in his immediate presence.
whom
God has
the Spirit of
'
sealed unto the day
of redemption.'
"
What
a change for her
from that poor, tattered cham-
ber, to the regions of paradise
bosom of Abraham
from a bed of straw
to the
from poverty, sickness, and pain,
and joy
eternal riches, health,
to
from the condition of a
decayed, weary pilgrim, in this valley of tears, to that of a
happy
"
home,
traveller, safely arrived at
maineth
I
to the
have
parental
people of
lost a
God
young
disciple,
Yet how can
tie.
God has found
Her
in the rest that re-
endeared
me by
to
complain of that as
willing and
lost,
a truly
which
welcome voice no longer
seeks or imparts instruction here.
But
it
far better
is
em-
who rejoiced over her when her soul

first turned to God, who watched the progress of her short
pilgrimage, and who have now carried her triumphantly to
The
ployed.
the heavenly
'
Why
angels
own
In holy song, their
then should
cerns her,
is
swallowed up
On
have already taught her
hills,
mourn
immortal
The whole
similar affections.
III.
'
it
con-
Death
is
was
buried.
to the
had
ground with
The attendants were not many, but I

among them some of the children who
perceive
had been accustomed

VOL.
prospect, as
in victory.'
the fourth day from thence, Jane
to
strains.'
with joy and immortality

"
filled
never before committed a parishioner
was glad
to join
to receive
11
my
weekly private
instruc-
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
42
tion along with her.
wished that the scene might usefully
God would
impress their young hearts, and that
As
their edification.
the service,
stood at the
bless
to
it
head of the grave during
connected past events, which had occurred in
the churchyard, with the present.
In this spot Jane
first
learned the value of that Gospel which saved her soul.
Not many yards from her own burial-place was the epitaph
which has already been described as the first means of
affecting her
seemed
to
mind Mith
stand, at this
those truths which
reader.
Such an
ful effect
on
my
serious and solemn conviction.
moment, as a peculiar witness

proclaimed
lines
its
thoughts.
serene
nothing occurred
"
the quiet solemnity of the occasion.

little
Jane uttered, while living
be inscribed on the farewell scene
was
A grateful
laid.
my own
mind, as
that peace
when
Attachment
induced
me
at the grave, w^here
remembrance of that peace

all
shall
it
understanding be in
meet her again
as an evergreen
The young
ory.
promised by
But
it
grave
its
revives in
and O,
to
she
its
may
most per-
at the last
day.
young Christian lay,

a yew-tree close by the head of her
to the spot
to plant
the last
and peace seemed
where
this
grave, adjoining the eastern wall of the church.

it
to interrupt
Peace" was
write these memorials of
which passeth
fect exercise,
every passing
association of objects produced a power-
The evening was

word
to
It
for
monument
of one
who was
designed
dear to
mem-
plant appeared healthy for a while, and
outward vigor long
to
retain
its
station.
withered soon afterwards, and, like the child whose

it
pointed out to notice, early faded
The yew-tree proved

But a more
may
to other generations,
away and
died.
and short-lived monument.
lasting one dwells
possibly this narrative
memory
a frail
in
my own
be permitted
when
to
heart.
And
transmit her
the hand and heart of
the writer shall be cold in the dust.
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.

Perchance some,
into
whose hands these pages may
young
be led to cultivate their spiritual
will
43
fall,
plants with
increased hope of success in so arduous an endeavor.
May
the tender blossoms reward their care, and bring forth early
and acceptable
fruit
Some, who have perhaps been accustomed
may
the character oi very youthful religion,
the Lord of grace and glory

his
is
undervalue
to
hereby see that
not limited in the exercise of
power by age or circumstance.
It
sometimes appears
in the displays of God's love to sinners, as
it
does in the
manifestation of his works in the heavens, that the least of

the planets
moves
in the nearest course to the sun,
enjoys the most powerful influence of his
and there
light, heat,
and
attraction.
The
Young
story of this
Cottager involves a clear evi-
dence of the freeness of the operations of divine grace on
man
the heart of
of the inseparable connection between
true faith, and holiness of disposition
and of the simplicity
of character which a real love of Christ transfuses into the

soul.
How many
of the household of
" Alike
unknown
to fortune
and
to fame,"
have journeyed and are now travelling
paths of modest
almost unheeded piety
It
is
obscurity,
and
one of the most interesting
employments of the Christian minister

lilies
their " city of
to
habitation," through the

!
every age,
faith, in
to
search out these
of the valley, whose beauty and fragrance are nearly
concealed in their shady retreats.

assist in
unfolding
due season,
is
its
To
rear the flower, to
excellences, and bring forth
work
that delightfully
its fruit
recompenses the
in
toil
of the cultivator.
While he
his
is
occupied in
this grateful task of laboring in
heavenly Master's garden, some
blight,
some tempest
THE YOUNG COTTAGER.
44
may
chance
to
take
premature stage of
a favorite young blossom, in a
growth.
such a case should
befall him,
he will then, perhaps,
have often done, when standing
in pensive recollection
If
as
away
its
make an application of these lines,

which are inscribed on a gravestone erected in the same
at little Jane's grave,
churchyard, and say,

" This lovely bud, so
young and
fair,
Called hence by early doom,

Just
came
to
show how sweet a flower
In Paradise would bloom."
]Vo. 80.
THE
DANGER OF DELAY.
Behold,
now
is
the accepted time
Various are the

the
he
is
behold,
artifices
men employs
souls of
When
no longer able
now
is
the
day of salvation.
2 Cor. 6
2.
which the great adversary of

accomplishing their ruin.
for
exclude the light of divine
to
truth from the understanding, or to divert the attention from
the things that belong to their peace, or to prevent entirely

the general resolution of complying with the design of the
Gospel, he next labors to persuade them to postpone the
immediate execution of a purpose, enforced not only by the

sacred obligations of duty, but also by a just regard to their
Thus no direct opposition

The sinner, though
awakened, would, in the circumstances now
present and everlasting welfare.

is
made
to the convictions
but partially
of the mind.
supposed, revolt at the idea of a decided rejection of the
But no more
proposals of divine mercy.
is
pleaded for than
a temporary indulgence, a short delay perhaps, which,
it is
presumed, can be attended with no great degree of inconvenience or danger.
Thus
the conscience
is
lulled asleep
and, to the delaying sinner, the consequences of this temptation
may
in the
end prove no
less fatal
than an immediate
and contemptuous disregard of the Gospel of salvation.
Few men
are so hardened as to resolve that they will
never repent and believe the Gospel.

fondly anticipating
it
will be time
many
years
to
enough hereafter
to
The young man,
come, and supposing that

provide for the salvation
of his soul, resolves, in the meantime, not to decline the

pleasures that
from any joy.

VOL=
III,
lie
within his reach, nor to withhold his heart
Those
in
more advanced
11*
life
have no time,
THE D.^XGER OF DELAY.
amidst the multiplicity of their engagements,

serious a business as religion
they have more leisure they will begin
And even
life.
old age itself
ing pretexts for putting off a
to attend to so
but they resolve that
to
when
think of a future
often ingenious in discover-
is
longer the work of prep-
little
aration for the eternal world.
Should Providence direct

one who
may
Tract
this
dangerous temptation, he
is
hands of
into the
common and
be under the influence of this
earnestly requested to attend to
the few following considerations, as in the sight of God, and

in
view of the account which he must ere long render
to
his Judge.
Consider the i?nportance and urgency of the business to
which your
attention
is
noV
The Gospel
invited.
a message from the God of heaven
to
contains
every soul that hears
" This is his commandment, that we believe on the

name of his Son Jesus Christ." 1 John, 3: 23. "God
now commandeth all men every where to repent." Acts
17 30.
And Jesus himself, while he abode on earth,
it.
preached, saying, " Repent ye, and believe the Gospel."
Mark
15.
decline or
The
to
No
indulgence
granted
is
to
men
either to
postpone compliance with this divine injunction.
obligation
which
it
infers, is in the highest
degree im-
portant and peremptory.
But
this
itative.
Its
command
is
great object
and welfare of those
to
not less gracious than

is
connected
whom
deliverance from the greatest

invaluable and everlasting.
life,
delay
unwise
is
In
it
is
author,
once with the safety
addressed.
It
proposes
and holds out advantages
all
the great concerns of
ever understood as indicating a mind feeble and
but in the present case
and absurd,
is
it
evils,
at
in a degree far
any other example of human

tage whatever can be gained
important interests at issue
it
must appear unreasonable
beyond what
folly.
;
may
but,
be
By
is to
be found in
delay, no advan-
on the contrary, the
lost for ever.
THE DANGER OF DELAY.
Nor must
be forgotten that the folly of delay can be
it
equalled only by
its
guilt.
It at
once opposes the authority
of the majesty of heaven, and tramples under foot the rich-
mercy. Why, then, delay to fulfil

an obligation so commanding, and to attend to an interest so
est provisions of divine
incalculable
in
Why persist
in offending the great
hazarding your own salvation
God, and
Consider the suitableness and value of the blessings proposed
to
adapted
our acceptance in the Gospel.

to the condition
ample provision
" Godliness
is
of the
that
life
Tim. 4:8.
These are precisely
of the sinner, and include the most
for present
comfort and eternal happiness.
profitable unto all things,
now
There
is
having the promise
and of that which
is,
is
to
come."
nothing to hinder your immediate
access to these exceeding great and precious promises, and

to the
enjoyment, so far as the present state admits, of
all
the
" Come unto me,'' saith Jesus,

good which they contain.
" all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you
Matt.
rest."
"
who have
is,
by
reach,
11:
And "we,"
28.
the divine promise, placed, as
why
delay
to
accept of
it ?
it
the
apostle,
When
this rest
saith
believed, do enter into rest."
were, within your
Would
the wise mer-
chantman who has found a pearl of great price, delay to

enrich himself by the purchase ?
Would the young heir,
who had just succeeded to a fair and ample inheritance,
unnecessarily delay
to enter
on the possession
Would
the
sick man, laboring under a painful and alarming disease,
delay
to
take that medicine by which he might be speedily
1
Or would the criminal condemned to die, delay accepting the offer of pardon held out
to him by the clemency of his prince ?
And is it too soon, O sinful man, who art condemned
already, and every moment exposed to the wrath of an
Almighty Judge, is it too soon to flee from the wrath to
restored to perfect health
come, and betake thyself
to the
stronghold opened to the
4
prisoners of hope
Is
burden and terror of

peace with God
ship,
his
and
to
Is
walk
it
it
and
to rise to
too soon to
confidence and
be restored
to his friend-
in daily fellowship with the
Son Jesus Christ
Is
from the
too soon to be released
guilt,
Father and
too soon to be cleansed
it
from
the pollution of sin, and to be raised to the honor of holy-
conformity and dovotedness
from the low
satisfactions,
joyments of the world,

Christ gives to those
in
Is
to
God
Is
it
too soon to turn
from the vain and transient en-
to those
purer and nobler joys which
who come
to
him, and which will be
them a well of water springing up to everlasting life ?

it too soon to obtain from the Lord Jesus Christ himself,
and God, even the Father, that everlasting consolation and

good hope through grace, which will not only comfort the
believing heart under the unavoidable burdens of
life,
the
disappointments, vexations, and tribulations of the present

evil world, but teach
him
to look
forward
to death, not
without dismay, but even with desire and joy, and
to
only
triumph
well-grounded prospect of a blessed immortality
in the
Are these the blessings which the Son of God has purchased
by his blood, and which he freely tenders to men without
money and without price ? Are these the blessings which
it
is
necessary for his ministers
importunity on your acceptance
urge with continued
to
And
are these the bless-
ings which delaying sinners are willing, at least for a season,

to forego, that
they may, in the meantime, live without God,
without Christ, without
world
peace,
and without hope in the
Consider that the present favorable opportunities of
curing salvation,
if
neglected,
may jmss away,
Besides the general privilege of access

to the
preaching of the Gospel,
to the
many
to a
compliance with
its
to
se-
return.
Scriptures and
persons are favored
with special advantages for leading them

of the truth, and
never
to the
design.
knowledge
Particular
dispensations of Providence sometimes concur with the word,

and impress
may
attention
are,
it
not occasion to recol-
and circumstances
in
life,
in
which the
has been awakened, the heart softened, desires
excited, purposes formed,

far
who have
be presumed, but few
lect certain seasons
There
minds of men.
truths on the
its
and a
are not immediately improved,
mind produced
state of
from the kingdom of God.

it
Your
they will be always enjoyed.
not
But if these opportunities

must not be expected that
pious parents,
who
longed, and labored, and prayed for your eternal welfare,
may
soon be laid in the dust; the faithful friend, whose
warnings and persuasions have often been ineffectually em-
may
ployed,
be taken
case as hopeless, he
may
for
away
may
or, at
one more adapted
may
and
eration,
You
little
present hindrances and opposition which
may
more disposed
to yield to
occasion some to remove to a distant part
of the world where
no Bible will be found, no Gospel
preached, no ordinances dispensed
and wliere
cerns of business and society will tend

victions,
may
leisure for serious consid-
Unavoidable circumstances or voluntary en-
resist.
gagements
Connections
to foster security.
the corruption of nature will be
of
considering your
be led to exchange a lively and awakening ministry
be formed which will leave
than
last,
cease to counsel or reprove.
and
to
all
the con-
extinguish con-
to
harden the heart through the deceitfulness
sin.
And
let
it
be particularly remarked, that to each indi-
vidual some day, some occasion of hearing the doctrine of

salvation, proves the last that shall ever be enjoyed
an
eventful opportunity which concludes the whole period of

divine
forbearance, the long-continued series of gracious
applications to the soul.

It
The
statement
has often been realized, and continues
the case of multitudes from day to day.
is
to
not imaginary.
be realized in
While Paul was
Roman governor, had he

been so inclined, might often have heard the Gospel from
confined a prisoner at Cesarea, the
6
his lips
And
and one such opportunity he certainly had.
as the apostle " reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and
Acts 24 25. No
more suited to his circumstances
His attention was arrested. His heart was
and character.
impressed.
His conscience was roused.
He trembled
a judgment
to
come, Felix trembled."
subjects could have been
Happy moment had
under the apostle's discourse.

yielded to his convictions
and with a resolution
Felix
to follow
him what he
made this appli-
the advice, besought the preacher to inform
must do
to
be saved
not have
But he thought only of getting
cation in vain.
uneasy sensations.
when
He would
Go
"
have a convenient season
This was his
24
to
return.
25.
He
rid of his
thy way," he said, " for this tima;
Acts
will call for thee."
last opportunity,
and
it
passed, never
afterwards sent for the apostle, hoping to
receive money, but not to hear of the faith of Christ
we hear no more
and
of him in any connection with the means
of grace or the hopes of glory.
The
following passage in the
tleton,* is related nearly in his
life of Thomas Lord Lytown words " I have had

:
some serious conversations with my father and one evening he concluded by recommending me to address heaven to
;
have mercy upon me, and
to join
constant and paternal ones for
my
my own
pressions, with his preceding counsels,
my
knees,
when
it
aperture,
let
down
my
thought
pious attitude
it
to
me
that
This
and having secured
his
had bent the
occurred
ray devotions might be seen through the key-hole.
drew me from
to
These ex-
and affecting delivery
of them, had such an effect upon m.e that
stubborn sinews of
prayers
reformation.
this
would not be a useless precaution
the window-curtains also
to
and during the perform-
ance of that ceremony, some lively music which struck up

in the street
caught
my
attention,
Son of George Lord
treatise
and gave a sudden
Lyttleton,
who
flirt
to
-wrote the celebrated
on the conversion and apostleship of St. Paul.
my
all
so I girded on my sword and went to

where the entertainments soon put me out of
devout ideas
the theatre,
humor with
humor with myself."
praying, and into
Reader,
last
may
it
be that thine eyes have looked for the
time on the sacred volume which contains the record
of eternal
life.
It
may
be that thine ears have heard, for
the last time, the joyful sound which brings the message of
reconciliation
erations to
and peace.
which thou
may
It
now
art
be that the plain consid-
convey the
attending,
last
expostulation that shall ever be offered to thy conscience.

It
may
be that the feelings of penitence and anxiety are for
Dost thou say with Felix,
the last time rising in thy heart.
Go
thy
way
till I
have a convenient season
May
awful sentence be coming forth from heaven, "
Leave him
alone.
He
no longer.
shall strive
to
is
Spirit
joined to his idols, let
him
a self-righteous confidence, to a delu-
When
sive peace, to a hope that shall perish."
drew nigh,
not the
My
our Lord
Jerusalem, that
for the last time, to the city of
infatuated and devoted city, " he wept over
it,
and
said. If
thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the
things which belong to thy peace
Luke 19:
from thine eyes."
Consider that the

diminished,
hut,
now they
but
are hid
42.
difficulties
of repentance will not he
on the contrary, increased hy delay.
moral and spiritual change, described by our Lord as a new
and heavenly
every
man
heaven.
therefore
birth,
must necessarily pass on the heart of
before he can be qualified for the blessedness of
A
its
divine agency
is
necessary
accomplishment must,
in
every circumstance, be equally easy
But the Holy Ghost operates
in
to
produce
to
to direct
to
and
to
our
His grace
is
supersede the exercise of our faculties, but
and dispose the sinner
demands of
Almighty power.
a manner suited
nature as rational though fallen creatures.

intended not
it
every person and in
the Gospel.
to
While
comply with the gracious

the
Holy
Spirit enlightens
the understanding, convinces the judgment, and persuades

the will,
the duty and business of the sinner to receive
it is
the record of eternal
and turn
life,
to
But
God.
be remembered that this heavenly influence
it
ought
to
neither cal-
is
culated nor intended to prevent the soul from sensibly expe-
may
riencing the difficulties that
be expected to attend so
And
complete a change of moral dispositions and conduct.

these difficulties,
How
by delay.
must be greatly augmented

and painful must it be to relinquish
evident,
is
it
difficult
now become
habits that have
propensities confirmed
inveterate
subdue
to
by long indulgence
sinful
make
to
all
those sacrifices of worldly attachments and connections,

interests
and pleasures, that Christian duty
may demand
and, in short, to pursue a spiritual and holy course of
unrenewed
altogether opposite to the strongest inclinations of
nature
"
Can
ard his spots
tomed
to
And
the Ethiopian
change
Then may ye
also do good, that are accus-
Jer. 13
do evil."
if
sion of life
it
his skin, or the leop-
23.
be proposed to defer repentance
draws near, must not the
arduous even
life,
increased to an extreme degree
to expect, the
by age
faculties impaired
in seeking relief
the conclu-
of a work,
most favorable circumstances, be then
in the
nature warrants us
till
difficulties
When,
body
as the course of
enfeebled, and the
is
when every thought
is
occupied
from the pressure of infirmity and pain
and when the mind
is
agitated
the approaches of dissolution
by
all
the anxieties
must excite
is this
which
the season
thou hast chosen, imprudent man, for beginning thy ac-
quaintance with God, and preparing for judgment and eternity
Can any
choice
thing less than insanity dictate such a
And can
it
be seriously adopted by any
man who
professes to admit the duty and entertain the purpose of ever
God ?
The delaying sinner forgets
sovereign mercy and grace
returning to
the
his absolute dependence on
of God.
The
blessings of
salvation are in the Gospel freely held forth to sinners
God
is
under no obligation
far less to
keep them
impart them
to
any
is
come
3:9.
is
It
any should
I'epentance."
to
2 Peter,
not for us to prescribe to God, or to limit the
He
extent of his mercy.
their hardness of heart
may, and sometimes
certainly
among
does raise up, even from
uments of
individual,
rich in mercy, and
" long-suffering to us ward, not willing that
perish, but that all should
but
the sinner finds himself
till
God, indeed,
disposed to seek them.

is
to
in reserve
sinners distinguished by
and long-continued guilt, signal monmercy and superabounding grace.
his sovereign
But the question

judge
self is best
do right ?"
is
;
not what God may do ; of that he himand " shall not the Judge of all the earth
But the question
rantably expect, according
is,
What may
sinners war-
the declarations of his
to
word
and the unchangeable principles of his government ? Now,

while the Scriptures contain the most gracious invitations
and promises,
to
engage perishing sinners
to
receive the
grace that brings salvation, not the least encouragement is

On the contrary, hesitation and
given to justify delay.
delay are represented as highly criminal and provoking to
God, and calculated
to
draw down
the visitation of his wrath.
" Again," as the apostle states the fact, " he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To-day, after so long a time
it is
said,
To-day,
hearts."
is
the
if
" Behold,
ye
will hear his voice,
now
day of salvation."
is
the accepted time
2 Cor. 6
Canst thou then expect,

postponing
till
as
harden not your

;
behold,
now
2.
misjudging man, who art
hereafter, attention to thy eternal interests,
canst thou expect that after giving the best of thy days to
sin
and the world, and long insulting the Majesty of heaven
by despising the riches of his grace, the great God will be

more ready than at present to extend to thee his saving
mercy? Canst thou expect that the blessed Jesus, whose
voice thou hast so long refused to hear, and whose precious
VOL.
III.
12
blood thou hast so long trodden under
more disposed than
become thy
will then
foot,
be
present to undertake thy cause, and
at
intercessor with the Father
Canst thou ex-
Holy Spirit, grieved and vexed with thy delay,

then be more disposed to exert his saving energy, and
pect that the

will
in thy heart all the
fulfil
Or, rather,
provoked
old,
good pleasure of his goodness?
who tempted him and provoked him, and saw

I
and of
whom
he
into
my
sware
in
my
is
a people that do
it
known my ways:
wrath that they should not enter
rest?" Psalm 95: 9-11.
Consider the great uncertainty of
It
life.
been supposed that the delaying sinner 7nay

riod arrives which he has fixed for attending
But the
of his soul.
folly
human
certain than
appeareth for a
little
time,
along
all
till
the pe-
to the salvation
trusting to this
What
can be more unbut " a vapor, that

and then vanisheth away ?"
What
is
it
do not leave the world in the order of time in which
they enter
Few
it.
and multitudes
are
life ?
has
live
and danger of
supposition are surely very great.
Men
works
Forty years long
grieved with this generation
whom
his
said, "
err in their hearts, and they have not
unto
be
deal with the delaying sinner as with Israel of
to
in the wilderness
was
may
there not just cause to fear that he
is
now
fall
only are permitted

at
to arrive at old
every other period of
age
Where
life.
the companions of thy youth, the friends of thy
riper years,
and a numerous society with whom,
ways, thou hast been connected in
life ?
in various
They have
dis-
now exist in the world of

Among these, how many have been cut down in
spirits.
To not a few, probably,
the morning or noon-day of life ?
and some have been called
the summons has been short
unexpectedly, in a moment perhaps, to pass to the eternal
appeared from the earth, and
" In the morning they are like grass
state.
up.
In the morning
evening
it
is
cut
it
flourisheth and
which groweth
groweth up
down and withereth."
Numerous
in the
cases

of
have been furnished by the
this sort
preceding year; and
how
In these circumstances,
day
be
to
Judge standeth
and
not,
may
thy
unwise, beyond expression,
delay the great concerns of immortality from

" Behold, the
day, and from one year to another.
it
to
last and by every

numerous additions will no
and by every following year.
to these,
doubt be made by the next,
must
In such an hour as ye think
at the door.
moment
in a
that
ye are not aware," the summons

" Escape, then, for
be given and thy soul required.
life,"
delaying sinner
stay thou in all the plain
" look not behind thee, neither
escape
the mountains, lest
to
thou be consumed." Gen. 19: 7.
Consider the recollections which,
it
may
he expected, will,
of the sinner who has

appointed unto men once to die,
in the eternal world, he the portion
"
perished hy delay.
and after
my
and
this the
reward
work
as his
when
is
It is
judgment,"
"Behold,
with me, to give to every
shall be."
the offers of
And now
come quickly,
man
according
the period has arrived
mercy are brought
to a final close,
are succeeded by an awful and eternal judgment.
and
Think
of the state of the sinner who, having dismissed his convicnever found the " convenient season," when he pro-
tions,
posed to attend
flame
his
to
mind
them again.
His body tormented
torn with feelings inexpressible
in the
doomed,
in the infernal prison, to associate with satanic fiends

all
bliss
"
And
dwell for ever

of
and
the tribes of ungodly men, outcast from the mansions of
its
But
horrors,
is this
!
the place in
How
often in
and warned
to flee
despised the counsels of the
tinued to
which
my
lifetime
am
was
from the wrath
God
stumbled on the dark mountains, and
apprised
to
come
of mercy, and con-
with his gracious warnings,
trifle
destined to
till
sunk
my
into
feet
these
abodes of woe."
Nor
will
it
afford the least comfort to dart a look across
the impassable gulf, and perceive the
kingdom of heavenly
:;
;!
12
glory shining from afar
which no man
the great multitude
can number, arrayed in white robes, with palms of victory

in their hands,
and crowns of gold upon their heads,
God and
glorious presence of
was
invited to join that illustrious society,
all their
blessedness and glory
layed, and would not
now
my
Lamb
of the
my
know
condemnation
is just,
punishment everlasting
Hasten,
And
the
and
in the
How
"
to
But I hesitated and deday of my visitation. And

!
my
anguish intolerable, and
!"
sinner, to he wise,
stay not for the morrow's sun
The longer wisdom you despise.

The harder is she to be won.
hasten,
And
For
mercy
to
implore,
fear thy season should be o'er
Before this evening's stage be run.
hasten, sinner, to return,
And
For
fear thy
lamp should
fail to
Before the needful work
For
is
begun.
Lord, do thou the sinner turn
Now
burn
done.
fear the curse should thee arrest
Before the morrow
is
hasten, sinner, to he hlest.
And
rouse him from his senseless state

him not thy counsel spurn.
Nor mourn his fatal choice too late
let
often
share in
No.
81,
THE
SEAMAN'S SPY-GLASS.
BY A CLERGYMAN OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND,
FORMERLY A LIEUTENANT IN THE ROYAL NAVY.
^yiiljlîfr 1''^^
%r,i,m'}
When we
into the water,
All
to
we
behold a vessel launched, for the
we know
are sure of
is,
not what
that
it
will
contend with storms and calms,
rents
and rocks and sands,
to
its
have
to
first
future history
to beat
time,
may
be.
about at sea,
be endangered by cur-
be in frequent peril from the
breaking sea, the forked lightning, and the ignorance and

ill-management of the crew.
VOL.
Ill
THE.SEAMAN'S SPY-GLASS.
But how long

cissitudes of evil
by what
to
port
may
it
the waters
by
event, or in
brought
;
it may float amidst these dangers and viwe know not neither are we acquainted
end.
its
what part of the world,

It
be set on
may
it
may
founder soon after
and consumed
fire,
be torn, as
it
it
may
it
be
leaves
in the midst of
were, plank from plank,
laboring and plunging in a heavy and continued hur-
its
ricane
or
it
may
be suddenly dashed
sunken rock, even while the sky
is
pieces on some
to
clear and the wind di-
By some such means it may be brought to its

escape all these perils, and, after weathermay
end. Or it
ing many storms and visiting many distant parts of the
world, it may return in peace, and in its own port end its
days, full of credit, and followed with many a long and
rectly fair.
who had
kind remembrance by those
sailed on board.
So when the children of men are born

and launched on the unsettled ocean of
what
their future history
may
be.
All
into this world,
life,
we
we know
that " they are born to trouble as the sparks fly

that,
for
if
they are permitted
to
any length of time, they
have
to
is,
upward
continue the voyage of
will
not
are sure of
;"
life
contend with ten
thousand dangers, as well from the flesh as the world and

satan.
They may go down
launched into
life
to the
grave soon after they are
may
proceed awhile on their
or they
voyage, and then be destroyed by the flames of youthful

lusts
which war against the
soul.
Surrounded by the
fair
winds and cheering skies of a gracious Providence, they
may
run on, thoughtless of futurity, inattentive
to the ad-
vice of friends, and perfectly indifferent to the admonitions
of God's word.
ters,
dels.
Hence, they
may become
covetous, idola-
ambitious tyrants, or haughty and presumptuous
The
gales of
human
infi-
approbation and the love of
THE SEAMAN'S
'
SPY-G5^.ASS.
money may
so inflate their souls, that, like an overpressed
vessel, they
may be upset and perish. The swelling waves

may break repeatedly over them, and they may
of adversity
sink in despondency and despair.
they
evils,
ing
may
God by works
of love
Or, escaping
pass through a long and useful

of faith, and benefiting
may
of their
these
honor-
mankind by labors
and having walked watchfully and humbly before
the Lord, and through his grace surmounted
they
all
life,
close their days
own
in a
and depart
families,
in peace, to be for ever
with their gracious Lord and Saviour in heaven

"
Where, anchor'd
dangers,
all
good old age, in the bosoms
safe,
each weary soul
Obtains a port of rest
Where
storms ne'er beat, nor billows
roll
Across the peaceful breast."
NAVIGATING THE SHIP.

In vaiii would
it
be
to
fit
and most expensive manner
out the finest ship in the best

in vain to put the
most valu-
able cargo on board, and lo send her to sea in the fairest

season, and under the most flattering circumstances
I
say,
would be
vantages_,
if,
all this
when she
care and expense, and
in vain
these ad-
got into deep water, the log, and
compass, and quadrant, were

float
all
to
be neglected.
She might
a few leagues, indeed, but as to circumnavigating the
globe, and returning safe and enriched at last, there
be no hope of such results
men, and cargo, would sooner or
later be
seamen are
would not
so confident, that they
a vessel whose officers were likely
Hence,
at sea there
is
would
on the contrary, the ship, and
Of
lost.
to act so
sail
this
on board
mad
a part.
great care taken to keep the log
THB SEAMAN'S
SPY-GLASS.
going, to steer by the compass, to consult the chart, to ob-
and get observations of the sun and other
tain soundings,
heavenly bodies, by the quadrant, as often as possible.
Every
careful navigator sees to
and endeavors
his reckoning,
these things, and settles
all
to find the
bearings and
dis-
tance of the nearest land, and of his intended port, at least
once
in
every four and twenty hours.
So with respect
man.
to
In vain are
best natural
all his
faculties of mind, his valuable helps of education, his fair
and smiling prospects
in the
world
these will avail noth-
ing towards conducting him safe and happy across this dan-
gerous sea of
a heavenly kingdom, unless the-y are
life to
Nor can
brought into constant and suitable use.
all
the
natural and worldly advantages that ever distinguished man,
conduct his soul

ing,
to
heaven, without the grace of God attend-
and blessing, and sanctifying
being the case,
it
natural
all his
becomes necessary
for the
learned, as well as for the poor and illiterate, to use
means of grace
in their
power
to
to
tongue,
Without
this
they
may
indeed,
a season,, appear to go on as well as others, and, for a
time, even to prosper

fatal rock, or
ity,
to bridle their
suppress their anger, to regulate their whole course by
the compass of Scripture.

for
e'''<^^y
hear the wm^d of God,
pray, to meditate, to watch their steps,

to
This
gifts.
most rich and
but shortly they will strike on some
founder in the whirlpools of ignorance,
or presumption.
infidel-
This the thoughtful Christian knows,
and therefore he consults
his Bible as the chart
which
is to
point out his various dangers across this perilous and intri-
From time to time, by self-examination, he

fathoms his own heart, and compares its soundings with
He looks
those laid down in the map of God's word.
cate ocean.
forward, and calculates on approaching dangers and temp-
THE SEAMAN'S SPY-GLASS.

and then
tations,
directs his eyes to heaven, to Jesus Christ
of righteousness, for wisdom and grace to avoid
Sun
the
them.
TAKING ADVANTAGE OF WIND AND TIDE.

Every seaman knows how absolutely necessary
who have
those
derstand and take advantage of wind and
tide,
are in their favor; because experience and
have taught them that " wind and
Hence, they see the wisdom of catching a
When
they are
at sea,
:
fair
while
it
shift
;
continues.
it
of wind, and brace
at
time sailing on the starboard tack, and
may
contend with.
by
skilful
may
when
breeze
one time hauling
the bowlines, and at another slacking off the sheets
to
sense
no man."
they also put the same wise princi-
they watch every
up or square the yards accordingly
larboard, as
that
while they
common
tide stay for
they can, and of making the most of
ples into action
it is,
the conducting of boats or ships should un-
at
at
best suit to the varying element they
Hence
it
that with the
is,
one
another on the
have
same wind,
and proper management, twenty different vessels
at the
same time be
of the compass.
It
is
sailing on
by
this
twenty different points
watchfulness and
skill,
ac-
companied with the blessing of Divine Providence, that so
many
deep
ships pass in all directions on the
to their
board a ship,
various destinations.
who
they
if
ish at sea
it
is
men go on
tides,
and
fair
wind-bound
and leading winds,
it
is
no
in a foreign country, or per-
while their more skilful and persevering neigh-
bors return
So
lie
bosom of the great
however,
are too ignorant, or too idle, to take ad-
vantage of flowing
marvel
If,
home
in safety
and peace.
in spiritual things.
" There are seasons and fair
gales of grace, golden opportunities of salvation afforded to
men, the neglect of which proves the
loss
Of what immense
it
importance, then,
watch, and study, and take
necessary
trim every
sail,
gracious
various
the
all
to
all
we have run our
How
grace.
every faculty of the soul,
talent,
favorable gale, until, through the

Jesus,
souls.
should
advantage of these favorable
God
providences of
occupy with every intrusted
we
that
leading opportunities of
these
visitations,
and ruin of
is,
and
sail
to
we
that
with every
mercy of God
in Christ
distance, finished our voyage,
and
received our crown."
THE FAIR-WEATHER AND FRESH-WATER
On
ters,
board of large ships there are
all
SAILORS.
sorts of charac-
and not a few who are called " fair-weather sailors."
These, so long as
and smooth on deck, can talk
all is fine
much, and boast and swagger of their knowledge and

ness to do great things.
the gale
comes on
But when the sea
in earnest,
and the ship
readi-
when
gets up,
is in
some danger,
these boasting talkers are often found to be good for nothing.
They have
courage
to
There
water
neither knowledge to perform their duty, nor
go through with
are, also, in
sailors, or
young
it.
every seaport town,

fellows,
who, on a
a gay jacket and pair of trowsers, and pull or
a boat up and down the rivers, or
at
many
fresh-
fine day, put

sail
on
about in
some harbor's mouth
on these occasions they curse and swear, and think themselves braver
makes
men
this folly
than Nelson himself.
And what
and wickedness the greater,
is,
that
still
it
is
frequently on the Lord's day, that holy Sabbath, wTien they
ought
ish
to
be worshipping God, instead of taking their child-
pleasure on the water.
But do the
fine jackets
and
men
trowsers which these
put on, or the oaths they swear,
or the swaggering language they use,
men
No
make
brave
I'eally
sky becomes cloudy, or a breeze
for if the
freshens up, these counterfeit mariners soon hasten to the
nearest land, and run with
gale
house and comfortable

brave language,
leaving
word,
their
all
might from the vulgar
and unpleasant breaking waves, preferring a snug
it
to others to
is
it
where they can
fireside,
sit
and talk
and admire their unspotted sea-dress

face the storm in deep water.
In one
not a man's appearance, nor his language, that
proves his real character.
sake of showing his
stormy day, and
seaman ever wishes
are things that no true
skill
things that actually prove
and bravery
who
I'eal
danger,
meet
to
for the
but they are the
are brave and skilful sea-
men, and who are only fair-weather and fresh-water
sailors.
So, in the Christian world, and in every society of professed Christians,
whether by land, or by
sea, there are a
who much resemble
those above de-
variety of characters
There
scribed.
Christians, or, if
are
you
fresh- water,
please, imitators
put on the profession of religion, and
indulging their
tawdry
dress,
own
or
rather
counterfeit
and impostors, who
sail
down
the stream,
pleasure, and exhibiting their proud,
and their dear idolized persons
and while
they are thus mocking God, they often persuade themselves
they are great characters.

found
to
These, however, are never
bear reproach for Christ, nor
one darling lust or pleasure.
And
deny themselves
to
if at
any time
profession of religion threatens to bring such a
quickly turn
to the
their
they
world, and leave vulgar Christians to
encounter envy, hatred, malice, and reproach,

that Saviour,
trial,
who, with
his disciples of old,
and rejected of men, and who
is
found
to
for following
was despised
receive the
same
treatment from the lovers of pleasure in our
Others proceed a
further
little
own
times.
they embark in the cause
of Christ, go with his real servants, and are often, like the
fair-weather sailors, found to talk with more confidence and
freedom than old and experienced Christians.

with
quently found
difficulty
showy
self-confidence and
all their
times of
to flinch in
and danger
Yet
these,
profession, are fre-
trial,
and
in seasons of
betray great ignorance, and great
to
cowardice.
As no
wishes
seaman makes
real
meet future ones,
to
makes
real Christian
light of past dangers, nor
light of past temptations, or ever ex-
On
presses his wish to encounter future ones.

if
were
it
wish
to
storm
go on
life
without being exposed to one more
and the wisest and best Christians would desire
to
end of their pilgrimage, without having
to
to the
But as
encounter one more temptation.
this is not the will
of God, they learn, as often as the season of

look to
the contrary,
and bravest seamen would
possible, the wisest
pass through
courage, so no
to display his
him who alone can give them
and courage
comes,
to
and when he has brought them through the
difficulty, their
unto us, but
trial
strength, and wisdom,
language
thy
to
is,
name be
"
all
Not unto
us,
Lord, not
the praise."
" I have no skill the snare to shun,
But thou,
I
But thou
As
Christ,
my wisdom
art
art greater
than
my
heart"
vain talkers, the fair-weather and fresh-water
to
Christians, they are
grace of
ever into danger run
more
to
God has made us
forget that
difference.
it is
be pitied than despised.

to differ
only the grace of
And
for
them
let
from them,
let
If the
us not
God which has made
our prayer be offered up.
the
THE STORM.
No man
the
has long been
landsman
sea without experiencing what
at
have navigated foreign
And
and storms.
calls tempests
those
and been accustomed
seas,
who
to distant
voyages, have often witnessed what no mere resident on

shore can form any adequate idea of; the gathering dark-
ness and wild confusion of a tempest-driven sky, torn asun-
der only
to
make way
for fresh discharges
stronger bowlings of the wind
of lightning and
the thunder rolling through
down
The mountain-
the vault of heaven, and shaking the trembling masts

to the
very keels of the laboring vessel.
waves, piling on each other, rushing forward, and sounding

the very knell of death as they break, and half bury the
restless
The
bark in their dreary foam.
sails
blowing from
the yards, the yards themselves gone in the slings
masts perhaps plunging over the

the hapless
crew with them
the
and carrying part of
side,
into the merciless deep.
The
groaning wreck rolling ungovernable in the trough of the

sea
the leaks increasing and gaining on the crew, the chain
pumps sending
all,
forth their dismal clanking
sound
and above
a frightful lee-shore stretching itself wathin view, and
every hour becoming more and more

death on
all
who approach
distinct,
These are scenes on which poets have

orators have
harangued
frowning only
it.
their audience
often written, and
but they are scenes
which neither poets nor orators can describe as they really

appear
to those
that themselves
"go down
ships, that do business in great waters."
to the
sea in
These men do
indeed " see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the
deep."
Oh, that they were but more inclined
to
acknow-
ledge his hand, and to fear his power, to seek his blessing,
VOL.
III.
13
IQ
and believe
and
to love
it is
no discredit
in his
Son Jesus
seaman
for the bravest
Chi'ist
Surely
to confess that his
heart has often sickened within him, while his hands have
perseveringly labored through these almost hopeless
still
The Lord has
and melancholy scenes.
a voice that will be
heard when he " thunders in the excellency of his power ;"

nor did
call
on
ears,
who was hardy enough
ever see that wretch
God
damn
to
and the vivid lightning passed before
the contrary,
times, altogether strangers to thoughtfulness
were,
these seasons, serious, sensible
at
times they have been ready

"
at these
his eyes.
have noticed that those who were,
to
thunder rolled in his
his soul, while the
and
On
at other
reflection,
At these
men.
to allow,
There is a God that reigns above,

Lord of the lieav'ns, and earth, and seas
:"
moments they have seemed half disposed
To " fear his wrath, to ask his love,

And with their lips to sing his praise."
And now,
whether
reader, if
officer or
you can
find
who
foremastman,
had such feelings on such occasions

nor ever
will,
tremble
at the
or
a lee-shore
once pronounce such person an enemy

It
is
not in the
that he never did,
sounding thunder in the skies,
or the roaring, breaking surf,
madman.
a profane infidel,
pretends that he never
power of nature
scenes as these with indifference
will
at
to truth, a fool, or a
to
view such
and none can contemplate
such deaths with calmness and serenity but men of strong

grace,
who have a well-grounded hope that Christ Jesus has

sins, that the eternal God is their reconciled
pardoned their
Father, and that the hour which throws their breathless
;
!
corpse on the deadly rock, will convey their happy liberated
And
Abraham's bosom.
spirit into
this hope, this confi-
dence, no infidel, nor profane character, ever did, or ever
There
will possess.
wicked.
to the
never
no such peace as
is
this, saith
at rest.
But
it is
not only in the confused elements of this lower
These things
world that there are storms and tempests.
though in another form,
exist,
There are tempestuous seasons

There are storms and
the
in
spiritual
bosom,
conflicts in his
truly be said, that
all
world.
in the life of a Christian.
which the
to
ungodly part of the world are entire strangers
may
our God,
Their souls are like the troubled ocean,
who
Christians,
yes,
it
have, for any
length of time, been navigating this restless, dangerous sea

of
life,
have, in their conflicts with their
own
hearts, with
the world, and with the mighty powers of darkness, had
much
real experience that " through
enter the
lot
kingdom of heaven."
of those
servants, to
who
fear the Lord,
walk
in darkness,
for a season their course leads
and thence
seem
to
into the
It
we must
tribulation
sometimes
the
falls to
and obey the voice of his
and have
little
or no light
them through gloomy
mire and clay
be sinking in the deep waters, and
and waves of an angry ocean appear
to
deserts,
times they
at other
all
the storms
go over their souls
they look to heaven, but clouds and darkness are round

about the Almighty's throne
they see nothing but supposed
tokens of anger, and signs of his threatening judgment.
The
The
thunders of his righteous violated law shake them.

lightnings and arrows of vindictive justice
All their
creases,
and hope sickens, and almost expires.
that the
efforts
make them
seem useless; the storm yet
afraid.
yawning grave begins
to shout, victory
Then
!
it
inis
victory
22
Then
is
an envenomed
that death has
is
it
and heaven
sting,
beheld as a coast whose ports are shut against their en-
trance
saved
as a shore
Of
world
may
where they are

the
these things
to
be wrecked, and not
thoughtless
children of the
sometimes have heard, and sometimes they
have talked about them

stand them,
but
actual experience has taught the otherwise
till
incommunicable
lesson.
Should any talkative, bold professor here

say, "
He
has laid aside
he has learned
to
in the
him
" Let
to
and
up and
start
his legal
bondage
freedom and liberty of the
his soul
ever suffer shipwreck ;"
person to attend
12
walk
all his fears
who knows
Gospel, as one
his faith
may
they do not, cannot under-
still
it
can never founder, nor
would be well
Saint Paul's admonition in
that thinketh he standeth, take
for
such
Cor. 10
heed
lest
he
fall."
when we consider the nature of our spiritual

we must allow it to be awfully tremendous. " For
Surely,
conflict,
we
wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against princi-
palities, against
powers, against the rulers of the darkness
of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."
Eph. 6
12.
Hence
it
evil
day ;" and, beyond
ing spirit
any
is
we are
we may
is,
whole armor of God, that
directed to " take the
be able
to stand in. the
doubt, a watchful, humble, pray-
all
Nor
an important portion of that armor.
is it
discredit for the most heroic Christian to confess, with
the saints of old, that his fears are often multiplied, and his
spirit cast
fainted,
hope
down
within him
and sunk under the
still
that in time past he

conflict,
had nearly
but that a gleam of
remained, which cheered his soul with the per-
suasion that he should one day see the goodness and the
salvation of the
Redeemer
in the land of the living.
THE SEAxMAN'S SPY-GLASS.

Real Christian
life is
jg
of conflict
life
up of many storms, and some calms.
a voyage
made
an ocean whose
It is
waters are sometimes smooth, but more frequently rough
and stormy
is
it
a contest and a race, in which the flesh
contends against the
spirit.
which
narrow as
is
so strait and
Away,
to
heaven,
hw
our agonizing endeavors
but
efforts,
entrance
to call forth not
It is that
man
word.
May
by
filial,
that
spirit,
shall
fight,
spirit,
since
who
blessed
and that trembleth
is
at his
the writer and the reader be always attended

sanctified fear,
which
and watchful unto prayer
we
idle
portals.
its
unhallowed boasting
then, with all this empty,
the Lord himself has pronounced that
of a humble and contrite
pass
to
shall
keep us poor
in
Then, and not otherwise,
be enabled to surmount the storm, to fight the good
our course,
to finish
to
keep the
faith,
through the redeeming love of Jesus Christ,
and
to
at last,
receive the
crown.
Oh, thou adorable and blessed Saviour,

exemption from
the allotted trials of
God
beseech thee to be a present
in
man
do not ask an
on earth
but
every time of trouble
for,
"
While
thou,
Lord, thyself art nigh,
Who, who can

Sin, earth,
and
violate our rest
hell,
we can
defy,
While leaning on thy gracious
breast."
THE MIDDLE WATCH.

That ocean which we have
rough and boisterous form,
tempestuous.
It
is
is
lately considered
its
its
sometimes smooth and placid as the
rivulet that glides gently through our
indeed sweeps
VOL. III.
under
not always thus rude and
bosom, but
it is
13*^
meadows
a breeze
such as might carry along
THE SEAMAN'S SPY-GLASS
14
safety for hours and days together.
the smallest skiff in
This
is
a pleasing sight at
tling duty suspended
deck, and find
perceive every
to
the fair and gentle breeze

silently,
times, but especially so in
all
To come on
the midnight season.
to
all
bus-
stretched to
sail
see the vessel cut her
but swiftly, through the yielding waters
to
way
look
above and behold a cloudless sky, exhibiting stars of various

orders and magnitudes, dispersed through the wide expanse
of boundless space
watch the moon gliding along through
to
their ranks, while her silver
ocean as
has a natural tendency

doubt but some of
common
beams play across
eye can pierce
far as the
my
to
all this is
promote
the rippled
pleasing, and
Nor do
reflection.
readers have enjoyed these scenes in
with myself.
many on board who care for none of

men who seem to have neither eyes to behold,
True, there are

these things
nor hearts
By them
to
admire, the wonders of creation and providence.
the fair weather middle watch
is
passed through in
Some walk
a variety of unprofitable ways.
the deck in
sullen musings on what they consider their hard
fate.
Others more cheerful, but equally uninterested with the
works of God,
enchanted
collect together,
castles, of
and
tell
marvellous tales of
Blue-Beard, or Jack the giant-killer.
Others join in singing some love-ditty, or warlike song of

past battles and conquests.
in their watch-coat, sleep
And some, wrapping themselves

away their time till, roused by the
call of duty, or the expiration of the watch, they
their
hammocks.
On
descend
to
these occasions, the thoughtful, intel-
ligent Christian sailor will not break in upon, or interrupt

his
comrades
in their
enjoyments
so long as they appear to
be happy, and no improper language

rejoice that they are comfortable.
is
used, he will rather
Though he may esteem
;;

amusements
their
J5
as trifling, he will not use reproachful
language, nor display the part of an officious intruder

will seek his
own
on what surrounds him.
tion
but
superior enjoyment in thought and reflec-
Leaning over the gangway,
or quietly pacing and repacing the deck, he will converse
God, and with himself, in some such
tvith
way
as this
wisdom thee we praise,

Thee the creation sings
With thy loved name, rocks, hills, and
" Eternal
And
There thou hast bid the globes of

Their endless circuits
down
On
my
I turn
light
nm
There the pale planet rules

And day obeys the sun.
If
seas.
heaven's high palace rings.
tlie
night,
wond'ring eyes
clouds and storms below.
Those under regions of the skies

Thy numerous glories show.
Here the rough mountains of the deep

Obey thy strong command
Thy
breath can raise the billows steep,
Or
sink them to the sand.
Thy glories blaze all nature round.

And strike the wond'ring sight,
Through
With
But what are
yonder
visible
soul?
There
shall pass
skies,
terror
away
stars, or sun, or
is
and
solid ground,
moon, or
this earth, or
immortal
an appointed time, when these heavens
away with
seas,
delight."
heavens, in comparison to one
a great noise, and these elements shall
melt with fervent heat

pass
and
and
There
is
But
my
immortal
a day coming
when
spirit
cannot
the stars shall
THE SE-\MAN'S SPY-GLASS.
2Q
from heaven, as the
fall
fig-tree casteth
her untimely leaves
gromid; a day when "this earth, and
to the
herits, shall
when
dissolve;"
this
all that it in-
ocean shall give up
But
myriads of dead, and then be found no more.
must
exist
still
my
its
soul
O, most gracious Lord God, do thou help
me, a poor worm, but
still
being, to think of thee as
thy creature, and an immortal

ought, to love thee as thou de-
Keep
thy commands.
my
servest, to
obey thee in
while
hovering over the gulf of eternity, pardon
all its
and sanctify
all its
it is
all
sins through the atoning blood of Christ,
faculties
fleeting
by thy Holy
life, to
that
day
my
breast
will, as
receive
Spirit, before
and
quits this short
eternal portion.
its
O my
God, ere
every sinful passion within
arrives, do thou quell

;
it
soul
suppress every unhallowed disposition of
my
thy power has quelled every angry storm, and sub-
dued every raging motion of these surrounding waters.

let
my
soul be steadily
and rapidly urging on
thine everlasting kingdom, as our vessel
her course
to
is
its
way
O
to
now pursuing
her port of destination.
THE ANCHOR.
So necessary are anchors
to shipping, that
not possibly be safe without them.
On
casions they are the security of every vessel.
means
the ship
is
held in
they could
ten thousand oc-
By
their
safety while the storm howls
through the masts and rigging, and the breaking surge

rolls
by on
By them
either side.
the vessel
is
prevented
from drifting down with the current on some deadly shoal,
and from being drawn

in
calm weather.
log, helpless
in shore towards
Often,
when
dangerous rocks,
dismasted and driving as a
and almost without hope, towards some harbor.

less coast or
17
wreck-covered beach, the anchor
is
the
sea-^
Just before his bark drifts
and only refuge.
man's
last
among
the angry breakers he lets
it
go
plunges through
it
drives through every restless wave,
the troubled ocean,
and, fastening on the firm bottom, rides his trembling, half-
wrecked ship
Hence
is
in safety through the storm.
Heb. 6
called the Christian's anchor of hope,
and
said to be both sure
last fond
is
fail
him
one soul
19
and
mariner's anchor
and in that
fail-
gone, and destruction quickly
But the Lord Jesus Christ never
lows.
fail
hope
The
steadfast.
may, and indeed does sometimes

ure his
Lord Jesus Christ
that in the Scriptures our
it is,
nor ever
did,
fol-
will,
who makes him his refuge and hope, his trust

Oh, how great is the blessing of having
and confidence.
such an anchor as
hour of danger arrives
have
at
The
hand.
How
this to fly to!
lamity of being destitute of
when
it,
It is
great
day of
the
is
the caor the
trial,
a blessing always needful to
soul without
it
would be more
forlorn
and unsafe than a coasting vessel without ground-tackling.
We
have seen how many
new-launched bark
perils
surround and await the
but these are really nothing in com-
parison to what encompass and
waylay the Christian
" Dangers of every shape and
Attend the followers of the
Who leave
And
At one time
leave
secret
for
name
Lamb
the world's deceitful shore,

it
to return
no more."
the powerful stream of
human
corruptions,
or the impetuous tide of vicious example, threatens to
him down on
the rocks of destruction.
and almost imperceptible, but no
At
sweep
another, the
less
dangerous
shoals of prosperity, fame, and smiling circumstances, en-
danger his very existence.
At another, the storms of
vie-
THE SEAMAN'S
jg
SPY-GLASS.
overwhelming waves of an accusing
lent temptation, the
conscience, or the furious gusts of unbelief and satanic

suggestions,
may
be on the point of dashing him on the
And why
very reefs of perdition.

immortal
perils, that his
Because Jesus
spirit
anchor and
is its
is
amidst so
it,
many
does not suffer shipwreck

stay
its
the eternal
God
men is his present help in every time of

Happy indeed would that merchant be who could
and Saviour of
trouble.
procure an anchor of
every emergency.
his
crew
as
infallible security to his vessel
It
beyond
under
would be considered by himself and
all
price.
But, alas
of safety for the bodies and natural lives of
such an anchor
men
is
not to be
forged out of the perishing materials of this sinful world.
Jesus Christ, however,

soul.
He
sends him
is all
forth,
dangers and buffetings of

that he
this to the Christian

it
this
is
but he has prayed
evil,
John 17: 15; and
world
might be kept from the
therefore he will be preserved
mariner's
true, to contend with the
by an
and omnip-
infallible
otent hand.
"
Though waves and storais go o'er his head.

Though strength, and healtli, and friends be gone
Though joys be wither'd all and dead,
Though every comfort be withdrawn
On
this his steadfast soul relies,
Jesus, his anchor, never dies."
THE VOYAGE WELL ENDED, AND THE SHIP MOORED

IN PORT.
At length
the voyage
ward-bound passage
period, so
ners.
much
to
is
is
brought
completed.
to its close
Let us
reflect
the home-
upon
this
be remembered by the wandering mari-
With what cheerful countenances, with what
joyful,
THE SEAMAN'S
what inexpressible
SPY- GLASS.
jg
did the weather-beaten and
feelings,
long-absent voyagers behold and enter their long lost native
This was the happy hour, the thoughts of which
port?
bore up their spirits under the burning suns of Africa, and
amidst the snows and ice-mountains of Greenland.
Yes,
it
was
the thought of home, and the hope of returning thither,
that
made
all
the evils of foreign climates tolerable, and all
the hardships and
And now
more than
head
realized
the anchor
privations of the
voyage seem
light.
those thoughts and hopes and expectations are
have stripped
is
the ship has entered within the pier-
gone
themselves in
new
crew
have clothed
the sails are unbent
off their tarry, filthy
apparel
garments
are gone
the
on shore, and
in the
smiles of their dearest friends and kindred have
welcome
forgotten all the storms
and dangers and sufferings of the
voyage, or only remember and speak of them
to increase
their present happiness.
But what
is
all
this
when compared
Christian ending the voyage of

into that
be
haven of eternal
rest
life in
ripened
the
to
peace, and entering
where he
so
much
longed
we may pursue
the parallel, and observe that
was
it
hope of such a happy end which supported his

through the numberless
soul
trials
and sufferings of
life.
When
his
when pain and sickness wrung and enfeebled his

when poverty marked his circumstances and un-
body
the
spirits
and renewed temptations depressed and grieved
guilt
to
Yet
All comparison sinks into nothing and vanity.
kindness or neglect sat on the brow of every pretended

friend
it
was
the hope of heaven that cheered his bosom,
and strengthened him

he had
to
to
contend with
meet by the way.
And now
all
the
ills
and
evils
behold, in the Lord's
best time, all his fears and sufferings are ended,
and happy
20
experience has taught him the meaning of that voice which
proclaimed
who
die in the
that they
John from heaven, " Blessed are the dead
to St.
may
Lord from henceforth

rest
from their labors, and their works do
them."
follow
To
seaman or landsman,
the real Christian, whether
death comes as a kind messenger
mortal
yea, saith the Spirit,
coil
with
all
its
With one hand he turns
to bid
him
ship off this
and defiling garments.
defiled
the mortal out of a frail tenement
of clay, and with the other he opens to
heaven, where Jesus beckons him
him
the gates of
and clothes him
to enter,
with a spotless robe, puts a palm in his hand and a crown
upon
There, in the company of his dearest
his head.
departed Christian friends, in the society of angels and

archangels, and in the smiles of his glorified and visible
Redeemer, he
forgets all his former toils
temptations, or only
remembers and
crease his present and eternal

" All
is
felicity
and sorrows and
talks of
;
them
for there
tranquil and serene,
Calm and undisturbed repose

There no cloud can intervene,
There no angry tempest blows
;
" Every tear
is
wiped away,
Sighs no more shall heave his breast
Night
is lost
in endless
day
Sorrow, in eternal rest."
to in-
THE
SIN
AND DANGER
OF
DESPISING A PREACHED GOSPEL.
One of the exhortations of St. Paul to the Thessalonians

"Despise not prophesyings " by which it is generally;
is,
agreed, he intended the ministry of the
signed
guard
to
those, to
whom
Word.
He dewas tendered,
the Gospel
against the neglect or abuse of the great religious privilege
of attending on
to
its
public ministration.
If
it
was necessary
address so pointed an exhortation to persons living in the
apostolic age,
necessary
at
it
will
be generally admitted not to be less
the present time,
when
so
many
are found
either trampling upon, or undervaluing and slighting this
important means of grace.
We
would, therefore, call upon
consider the nature of this offence and
you
to
and
fatal
its
malignity
consequences.
1. The NATURE of this offence.

There may have been unholy ministers, who, by their
unguarded conduct, have contributed to destroy the influ-
ence of divine truth in the world and it cannot be doubted

that a dangerous weapon has, by such, been placed in the
;
False prophets have also

hands of its avowed enemies.
gone forth, proclaiming sentiments directly at variance with
the Gospel of Christ, and seducing men's minds from the
This is a cause
grand characteristic doctrines of salvation.
of mourning and lamentation to the truly pious.
But,
blessed be God, a holy and Evangelical ministry has not
and instances of deplorable departure, in some,

it is in Jesus, form no excuse for underVOL. III.
14
ceased
from the truth as
THE
SIN
AND DANGER OF
God
valuing ordinances appointed of

of his kingdom in the world.
for the
We may be
advancement
guilty, therefore,
of the sin of despising a preached Gospel,

1.
'By refusing
to
hear.
religious privileges as ours,
have
to
mourn over
In a country so abounding in
how
lamentable, that
we
should
the sad condition of thousands,
who
How
neither visit the sanctuary nor hallow the Sabbath.
who revere the institutions

who abandon the pursuits of this
affecting the thought, that those
of public worship, and
transitory scene for the duty of attending on
its
willincr to live in the habitual neijlect of
celestial spirits look
can mark the guilt
exercises,
who seem
are only exceptions from a countless multitude,
ordinances on which
down with veneration. What words

of those who trample on God's holy
Sabbath, and either from devotion to business or pleasure,

or culpable indolence, refuse to place themselves under the
sound of that Gospel wiiich has " brought life and immortality to light."
church,
to
What an
Head
insult to the great
of the
consider ordinances, established by him,
to
be
Suppose that he who absents himself from

the house of prayer, were employed from morning to evening, in searching the Scriptures, and in private acts of devotion
this, if it have not the apology of want of health,
unnecessary.
or
some unavoidable impediment, cannot excuse the
of forsaking the assemblies of God's people.
The
guilt
substitu-
own means for those of God, is an awful encroachment on the prerogative of the supreme Lawgiver.
But even this evasion is, for the most part, wanting in
They are
non-attendants on the public worship of God.
generally scoffers, whose " sins go before them to judgtion of his
And
ment."
in the
they
who
neglect the house of God, because,
pride of their hearts, they suppose they have the
means of
spiritual
improvement
in their
own
habitations,
should consider whether they are not almost as deeply

gulfed in guilt.
It
is
presumption, or the grossest
in-
self-
deception, to profess to worship God, while that open, exter-
nal homage,
is
withheld,
which
is
essential
to
the very
DESPISIXG A PREACHED GOSPEL.
existence and perpetuity of religion in the world.

O that
we may not be in the number of either one or other of those
classes !
God grant that no persuasions of sinful men,
depraved bias of our own minds, no deceptive excuses, may

tempt us to withdraw from a punctual attendance in those
hallowed places, where the Lord Jesus has promised his
special presence and blessing.
2.
By
lisiening to
They who
in
it
an unsuitalle frame of mind.

most part, absent them-
entirely, or for the
selves from the sanctuary, are not the only neglecters of
How many go there, whose

marked indifference, whose listless inattention, whose whole
demeanor indicate that they hear without deriving the least
the preaching of the word.
improvement.
What a melancholy spectacle, to see levity
of countenance and conduct in some, and drowsiness
in
when
made by the
others,
the most pointed and earnest addresses are

minister of God, on subjects involving their
How
everlasting welfare.
anxious
ter,
painful to the
bring sinners to Jesus,
to
to
faithful
minis-
see the very ob-
those whom he would "pluck as

brands from the burning," evincing the most entire unconcern in the momentous subject of his communications.
jects of his solicitude,
They who
are
all life
and activity
or of pleasure, during the week,

their mercies, a
in the
deny
walks of business,
bestower of all
to the
few short hours of devout attention on the
day in seven which he has hallowed to himself; and

not merely for his own glory, but as a means of
incal-
single
that,
culable blessings to mankind.
who
thus
grace
trifle
Can he hold those guiltless,

with his honor and with the provisions of his
And how can we
excuse, from a measure of this guilt,

those who, with the appearance of attention in the
house of
God, exhibit so little of its fruit ? They seem to listen
with
seriousness and gravity

less,
and
feel not at all.
deportment, they are
little
but they understand
Except
little,
in the article
better than the
or the lethargic sleeper, already noticed.
retain
of exterior
wandering gazer,
They attend from
THE
AND DANGER OF
SIN
habit, and, if conscience
have any share
in impelling to the
mere formalities of an
outward worship.
We might also number among despisers
the censorious, captious, angry hearer of the Word, whose
duty,
too easily satisfied with the
is
it
who
chief delight seems to consist in finding fault, and

arraigns and condemns, at the bar of his
own
contracted or
perverted understanding, almost every minister and every
And we might add
sermon.
to this
enumeration, those
who
are ever wandering in quest of novelty, and are never satis-
with the simple truths of the Gospel
fied
but delight
to
some splendid garb, which dazzles

the imagination, and conceals from the carnal mind whathave them clothed
may deem
ever
it
Ah
it is
enemies
in
offensive in the blessed revelation of God.
but too evident, such
to the
know
not the truth, and are
transforming power of true and experimental
religion.
3.
By
The
neglecting
its
right improvement.
God has
ever-blessed
not conferred so transcendant
demanding an
some measure cor-
a gift as that of his well-beloved Son, without

interest to be_ evinced,
responding
to the
on our
part, in
We may
unutterable value of the grant.
not openly profane the Lord's day, nor scornfully neglect

the ordinances of religion
we may
pliance with the forms of piety
yield an outward
we may
seriousness of demeanor in the house of prayer
even
listen
try
but O,
com-
observe due
;
we may
communications of the pulpit,

and give a decided preference to a vital and effective minis;
with avidity
to the
how short we shall come of the demands of

we stop here. Might we not venture to say,
Christianity, if
we have mentioned may
that all
consist with a state of
mind laboring under the most determined and alarming

unbelief?
It is
something more than external homage, which God
Nothing will satisfy him but " truth in the inward

parts :" faith that credits the divine testimony ; love to Christ,
requires.
to
evince
both.
its
The
reality
holiness of
unbelieving heart
is
life,
the blessed fruit of
a partaker of
\\o
spiritual
A TREACHED GOSPEL.
DESPISIiXG
blessing
its
possessor has not complied with the primary
command of heaven and all his attempts to honor God,

who rejects the Son of his love, merit only his indignant
He who exercises a true faith in Christ, has been
rejection.
;
conscious that eternal misery or eternal happiness is suspended on the reception or refusal of his offers ; and has
which
really accepted the gift
holiness
and never
fall, until its
will
it
mercy bestowed.
infinite
be persuaded that the Gospel requires
faith,
charm away
and
and
love,
the maladies of the
sacred truths have taken full possession of the
Nothing but the unequivocal, heartfelt acceptance

of the Gospel, will invest any with its countless blessings.
The line wiiich separates one sinner from another becomes
heart.
the mighty barrier
when compared with
invisible,
divides between the sinner and the saint.
we have
not
which
Destitute of faith,
made one remove from enmity to God.

spirit, we are despisers of the Gospel.
If not
We
in word, yet in
are leaning, whatever our dependence, on a broken reed

have reason to
which will pierce our very hearts.
We
God
hear, with terror, a
of truth addressing us, " Behold,
ye despisers, and wonder, and perish."

proceed
to
Acts 13
We
41.
show,
The MALIGNITY AND FATAL CONSEQUENCES of despis-
II.
ing a preached Gospel.
After what has been said, no elaborate argument
cessary
all
its
to
prove
malignity.
its
We
criminality.
Is
to
is
view
ne-
it
in
heinous, because of the fre-
less
it
ask you
quency of its commission ? Surely it cannot be, that the

path which leads to destruction is consecrated by the num.
However many are inO, no.
bers that walk therein
continues the same
unbelief
nature
of
sin,
the
volved in the
!
same in essence, the same in all its offensive qualities,

the same under all the varying aspects it assumes, from the
the
open neglect of public worship,

of a false profession.
involved in
by which
VOL.
III.
all
The
to the
most subtle exhibition
dcspiser of a preached Gospel
is
the guilt of this dark and malignant evil
the truth of
God
is
denied, the Saviour of
14^
men
THE
SL\
AND DAxXGER OF
rejected, the heart hardened,
man
the affections debased,
and
you would know the full

guilt of despising the ministry of reconciliation, you must
reflect on the unspeakable love in which its offers originated,
the divine authority by which they are enforced, the display
of grace which they contain.
You must witness a God of
the whole
contaminated.
If
infinite love stretching forth to a guilty
his
You must hear
mercy.
upon "
calling
You must conceive aright of

And then you must
provisions of his grace.

the
creature,
apostate
Redeemer
the ends of the earth" to " look unto him,
all
and be saved."
world the sceptre of
the compassionate
whom
all
the rich
contemplate
the Majesty of heaven has
stooped from his radiant throne to save, rejecting his gracious offers, despising the Son of his love, and proudly
away from the " unsearchable riches " of the Gos-
turning
O, if there be guilt in living without the knowledge

and fear of God, in " counting the blood of the covenant an
unholy thing," in undervaluing privileges of the highest
order and longest duration, in trifling with your never-dying
pel.
souls, then " despise not
prophesy ings," but wait with rev-
erence and attention upon the communications of the ambassadors of Christ, " beseeching you, in Christ's stead, to
be reconciled
to
God."
Reflect on the fatal consequences of despising their offers

" If our Gospel be hid," says the apostle,
of God's mercy.
hid to
*'it is
mation
ceive of
them
that are lost."
soul lost for ever
this,
contemplation.
What an
When we
alarming
endeavor
to
inti-
con-
our limited faculties are confounded in the

It is
not annihilation.
The
soul
is
possessed
But how affecting the idea, that,

after millions of ages shall have rolled along, it shall still
exist, deprived of all enjoyment, and enduring misery from
of an immortal being.
which it can never, never be relieved. And all this, remember, is the effect of holding in contempt the word of
God. " The Lamb in the midst of the throne " was de^
" the Lion of the tribe of Judah " pronounces the
spised
" He that sitteth in the
condemnation of the offender.

DESPISING A PREACHED GOSPEL.
heavens shall laugh "
Lord
shall
then,
ye
at the
-7
despisers of his truth
" the
have them in derision."

the wonders of eternity shall open
despisei-s
visitation ended.
The sword
endless
Yet a little while, and

to your view.
Behold,
of the Gospel, the day of your merciful
Your
can
destruction
" Consider
cries of
of vengeance
is
mercy
will be all in vain.
drawn, and nothing but your

the
satisfy
ye that forget God,

ces, and there be none to deliver."
if ye neglect so great salvation
this,
demands of justice.
he tear you in pie-
lest
"
How
shall
ye escape,
O, " see that ye refuse not him that
heaven."
He now warns you
now speaketh from
of your danger, and com-
passionately calls upon you to avoid
it.
Fly to your benigThere is but one refuge
There is but one hiding-place
nant Saviour without delay.

betake yourselves
to
it.
from the tempest of God's wrath repair to its shelter.

There is but one fountain wash in it and be clean.
There is but one sure foundation build on it for eternity.
There is but one sacrifice for sin rely on its infinite merit.
There is but one Mediator between God and man cast all
the mighty interests of your souls upon him.
Let him be
your friend, your Saviour, your exemplar, your portion,
your defence, your everlasting Redeemer.
But these things you will never do, while you live in
the neglect of the institutions of religion. You must revere
God's Sabbath, and believe his truth, and venerate and

keep his ordinances. The Gospel, revealed in his word,
preached by his ministers, and applied to your hearts in the
demonstration of the Spirit and with power, must be the
means of your salvation. You cannot turn away from it
O, then, become diligent readers of the word,

and attentive hearers of its illustration and enforcement in
with impunity.
the sanctuaries of the Lord.

desire of being profited, and
God and the wisdom of God "

None ever wilfully neglected
pered.
it
Come to it with the prayerful

may be made " the power of
to the salvation
the worship of
of your souls.
God and
pros-
Millions have, in his sacred house, been visited with
THE
SIN
AND DANGER
the impressions of his grace,

faith,
life
made
OF, ETC.
swayed
into the obedience of
the subjects of his pardoning mercy, and, after a
now realizing the rest and enjoyment

God grant that you may become the follow.
of holiness, are
of heaven.
ers of those, " who, through faith and patience, inherit the
promises."
Raise, thoughtless sinner, raise thine eye,
Behold the Judgment drawing nigh

Behold,
And
See
tlie
balance
is
displayed.
thou must be exactly weighed.
in
one scale God's holy law
Mark with what
force
Canst thou the awful

Thy works how light
its
precepts draw
test sustain ?
!
how
thy thoughts
vain
Behold the hand of God appears,
And writes in dreadful characters,

Tekel thy soul is wanting found
!
Witli trembling, hear the awful sound.
Let fear thy sin-bound heart embrace

Let guilty shame o'erspread thy face.
Conviction through thy conscience
And deep
One
repentance
fill
only hope can yet prevail
Jesus for thee can turn the scale
Can
And
roll,
thy soul.
give thy guilty conscience peace.
save thee by his righteousness.
83.
IVo.
ELIZA CUNNINGHAM
BY REY. JOHN XE^YTON,
KECTOB OF
3T.
MARY WOOLNOTH,
LOND O
iT
'^
'Â
When
the following narrative
was aware
judge how
was drawn
that his feelings rendered
much
up, the writer
him incompetent
of a relation, every part of which
teresting to himself, might be
fit
was
to offer to the public.
therefore wrote only for his friends,
to
in-
He
and printed no more
copies than would be sufficient to distribute within the circle
of his pei-sonal acquaintance.
much
inquired after, and
ed a wish that
it
many
But as the paper has been

of his friends have express-
might be more extensively circulated, he
has at length yielded
to their
judgment.
NARRATIVE OF ELIZA CUNNINGHAM.
2
It is to
be lamented, that in this enlightened age, relig-
ion should,
by many, be thought the only subject unworthy
of a serious inquiry.
And
that while, in every branch of
any theory which
science, they are cautious of admitting
cannot stand the
test
of experiment, they treat the use of the
term Experimental, when applied
to religion,
Yet there are many things connected with
whether we are willing or unwilling, we are and
v/hich,
must be nearly
ble
Many
with contempt.
this subject, in
Death, for instance,
interested.
is
inevita-
and the consequences of death must be important.

persons die, as they
quences
may
live,
await them.
And
reluctance and terror.
thoughtless of what conse-
Others leave the world with

there are others who, though
conscious that they are sinners, and sure that they are about
to enter
on an unchangeable and endless
possess peace, composure, and joy.
they owe this happy state of mind
state of existence,
These declare,
to their
that
dependence on
Jesus the Saviour, on whose death and mediation they have

built
their hopes.
Such
an instance
is
indubitable.
is
And who can disprove their words ?

now in the reader's hands. The fact
child,
under the age of
fifteen,
did thus
rejoice in the midst of pains and agonies, to the admiration
of
all
who beheld
friends
whom
derly beloved
when
She was willing
her.
she dearly loved, and by

;
for she
knew whom
leave
all
her
she was ten-
she believed, and that
she should be absent from the body, she should be
present with the Lord.

in the prospect of glory,
death.
to
whom
With
this assurance, she
triumphed
and smiled upon the approach of
NARRATIVE, ETC.
As
write, not for the
eye of the public, but chiefly
who have kindly
dear friends,
and prayers on the
restrain the emotions of
do not
mean
either to
heart, or to apologize for them.
write simply and freely, as
might speak
whose intimacy and tenderness
might fully entrust my-
I shall
to
my
sympathy
atforded us their
late occasion,
to
my
put a testimony of the Lord's goodness into the hands of
self,
and who,
a person
to
will bear with all my weaknesses.

my sister Cunningham was at Edinburgh,
know,
In May, 1782,
chiefly on the account of her eldest daughter, then in the
who was very
14th year of her age,
She had already buried an only

and while
all
ill
of a consumption.
son, at the
age of twelve
a mother's care and feelings were engaged
by the rapid decline of a second amiable
child, she
was un-
expectedly bereaved of an affectionate and excellent hus-
band.
Her
her
them.
for
trials
were great
She was a
but the Lord had prepared
Her
believer.
faith
her graces active, her conduct exemplary.

with God, and he supported her.
was
strong,
She walked
And though
she was a
tender and sympathizing friend, she had a happy firmness

of temper
so that her character, as a Christian,
and the
propriety of her behavior in every branch of relative
appeared with peculiar advantage in the season of
She returned
Anstruther a widow, with her sick child,
to
who languished
Though my
till
October, and then died.
sister
had many valuable and pleasing con-
nections in Scotland, yet her strongest

readily accepted
my
invitation to
She was not only dear
we had
life,
affliction.
to
me
tie
being broken, she
come and
live
as Mrs. Newton's
with us.
sister,
lived long in the habits of intimate friendship.
knew her
worth, and she
was
partial to
me.
but
I
She had yet
We
one child remaining, her dear Eliza.
whom we
dear orphan niece,
own
adopted for our
My
daughter.
active, fond imagina-
and drew a pleasing
tion anticipated the time of her arrival,
company of such
picture of the addition the
would make
friend,
children likewise
was no great
them, either
in
of Eliza,
was prepared
years or stature.
untold gold, which,
children
sister
had heard
her before
saw her
My
my
would be perpetuated
like twin sisters, of
Such was
in
my
over, proves to be a larger
them.
plan
him, he often
is
seemed
to
my
see them,
own
us.
was very
but the Lord's plan

failed.
short-sighted mortals, unable as
sequences of our
happy
It is
we
for us,
dif-
poor
are to foresee the con-
wishes, that if
we know and
trust
pleased to put a merciful negative upon our
purposes, and condescends to choose better for us than
can
for ourselves.
plan,
had
it
name,
says,
that
"Be
bow, as
My
;
know
not
my
sister
but
gracious issue of
and know
that
we
my
can now praise
his.
am God."
praise his
his word,
I
which
not only can
a sinner to do, to his sov-
admire his wisdom and goodness, and can
heart, " he has done all things well."
had
settled
her affairs previous
and nothing remained but
friends, of
been the issue of
can cheerfully comply with
still,
ereignty, but
moval
for the
becomes a creature and
it
say from
What might have
taken place,
and adore him
heap of
one heart and mind, habited nearly
and therefore mine
ferent,
like a
fancy paired and united these
always together, always with
alike,
hands
hoped that the friendship between us and
into
when counted
than was expected.
The
between
disparity
From what
to love
though she came afterwards
sum
a sister, such a
happiness of our family.
to the
there
already had a
had, about seven years before,
whom
to
to
her re-
take leave of her
she had many, not only in Anstruther, but

In February, 1783,
in different parts of the country.
received a letter from her, which, before
pected was
way
inform
to
me
But
London.
to
was upon
that she
opened
it,
the road in her
the information was, that, in a
journey she had made
ex-
little
a friend farewell, she had
to bid
caught a violent cold, which brought on a fever and a

cough, with other symptoms, which, although she described
as gently as possible, that
me
we might
not be alarmed, obliged
Succeeding
give up instantly the hope of seeing her.
to
letters
confirmed
my suspicions
her malady increased, and
she was soon confined to her bed.
Eliza was
at school at
Musselburgh.
enjoyed a perfect state of health

ther
was rapidly
cold,
and her
On
life
my
She knew
Till then she
was soon thought
own
caught a great
be in danger.
to
and resolution which strongly
was remarkably
sister's character,
that her
had
but while her dear mo-
declining, she likewise
likewise
this occasion, that fortitude
marked
displayed.
race was almost finished
she ear-
nestly desired that Eliza might live or die with us
and the
Ac-
physicians advised a speedy removal into the south.
cordingly, to save time, and to save Eliza from the impres-
which the
sion
upon her
sight of a dying
view might make

she sent
this,
mother might probably make
and possibly apprehensive that the
spirits,
too great
inter-
an impression upon her own,
her only, beloved child, directly to London,
without letting her come
home
to
take a last leave of her.
She contented herself with committing and bequeathing her

child to our care and love, in a letter, which,
the last she
was
believe,
was
able to write.
Thus powerfully recommended by
the pathetic charge
of a dying mother, the dearest friend we had upon earth,
and by that plea
for
compassion which her
strongly urged even upon strangers,
VOL.
III.
15
we
illness
might have
received our dear
NARRATIVE OF ELIZA CU.NN INGHAM.
Eliza, as a trust, and as a treasure, on the 15th of March.
My
long enough to have the comfort of know-
sister lived
was
ing, not only that she
new
pleased with her

all
safely arrived, but
She suffered much
earthly cares.
knew whom
of her illness, but she
was
perfectly
She was now freed from
situation.
remaining part
in the
she believed
she pos-
sessed a peace past understanding, and a hope full of glory.
She entered
into the joy of
her Lord on the 10th of May,
1783, respected and regretted by

I
indeed.
who knew
was agreeable.
Eliza's pei'son
and elegance
in her
her movements,
till
Her
her down.
and inventive
a treasure
There was an ease
whole address, and a gracefulness in
disposition
and
her.
me
long illness and great weakness bowed
would have excelled
Her
all
soon perceived that the Lord had sent
if
was
lively,
her genius quick
she had enjoyed health, she probably
in
every thing that required ingenuity.
understanding, particularly her judgment and her sense
There was some-
of propriety, were far above her years.
thing in her appearance that usually procured her favor at

the
She was honored by the notice of several
first sight.
persons of distinction, which, though

in part to their kindness to
owing
to
something rather
But her
thankfully attribute
believe
uncommon
to
us
who
was a good deal
in her.
principal endearing qualities,
known
only fully
me,
lived with her,
which could be
were the sweet-
ness of her temper, and a heart formed for the exercise of

affection,
gratitude,
school, she
who, having
in
and friendship.
Whether, when
at
might have heard sorrowful tales from children,

lost their parents,
point of tenderness
tion of uncles
met with a great difference
when they came under
and aunts, and might think that
and aunts were
alike, I
know
not^ but
since from herself, that she did not
come
the direcall
uncles
have understood
to
us with any

highly-raised expectations of the treatment she
was
meet
to
with.
But as she found,
(the
Lord
hearts to receive her,) that
own
possible for her
parents to have treated her more tenderly, and that
was from
study
to
mercy having opened our
in
was hardly
it
and the pleasure of our
that time the business
how
and how
to oblige her,
we were
tions w^hich
to alleviate the afflic-
unable to remove
so
we
likewise
found, that the seeds of our kindness could hardly be
more promising and
in a
either her aunt or I ever
it
lives
fruitful soil.
know
sown
not that
saw a cloud upon her countenance
during the time she was with us.
It is true,
could not, unnecessarily cross her
but if
we did not, we
we thought it
expedient to overrule any proposal she made, she acquiesced
with a sweet smile
and we were certain we should never
Her
hear of that proposal again.

quicker than our observation
when we could
say,
am
afraid I
it
if I did, I
not perceive the least reason for
answer you peevishly

ask your pardon
please you."
It is
was
and she would sometimes
thought any pleasure equal
if I
delicacy, however,
indeed
it,
"
did not intend
should be very ungrateful

to that
no wonder that
we
of endeavoring to
dearly loved such a
child.
The
hectic fever, cough, and sweats,
which she brought
with her from Scotland, were subdued in the course of the
summer, and there appeared no reason
to
she would be taken off very suddenly.
But
worm
preying upon the root of
had seldom any severe pain

her
still
this pretty
there
gourd.
was
She
within the last fortnight of
till
but when awake she was

knew not a single hour of perfect
and they who intimately knew her state, could not
life,
always
ease
apprehend that
and usually
ill.
but wonder
slept well
believe she
to see lier so placid,
cheerful, and
attentive,
when
when
in
down her
that her aunt or I observed her, she
saw
Many
company, as she generally was.
the tears have silently stolen
away, come
would wipe them
us with a smile and a kiss, and say, "
to
not be uneasy
a time,
cheeks, if she
am
not very
ill
can bear
it
Do
shall be
better presently ;" or to that effect.
In April, 1784,
we
and endeavors,
skill
put her under the care of
To
Dr. Benamor.
friend,
dear
his
nor can
sufficiently express
gratitude for his assiduous, unwearied attention, nor for
She
his great tenderness.
repeat,
what she has
was
her
to
sician
to
my
Lord on
ascribe the pleasure of having her
continued with us so long
my
the blessing of the
to
have so
but while
now
is
gone, and can no more
often spoken, of the great comfort

affectionate
I live, I
hope
will
it
it
and sympathizing a phy-
acknowledge our great obligations
always be
to
my pleasure
him on her account.

But what can
His prescriptions were carefully followed.
the most efficacious medicines or the best physicians avail
prolong
to
when
life,
the hour approaches, in
which the
prayer of the great Intercessor must be accomplished, " Father, I will that
me where
cause of
to
me
ors
to
they
am,
my
to
whom
behold
my
glory
dear Eliza's death.
be brought up for him
richly paid
happy
I
what
!"
The Lord
he owned
be with
This was the proper

sent this child
my poor endeav-
and when her education was completed, and she was
ripened for heaven, he took her
the
me may
thou hast given
me my
home
to himself.
wages, in the employment
He
itself,
has
and in
issue.
have thus put together,

relates to her illness,
of her pilgrimage.
in
till
one view, a brief account of

within the last three weeks
now come to what

Her excellent
portant and interesting.
scientiously endeavored to bring her
up
is
much more
im-
parents had conin the nurture
and
admonition of the Lord, and principles of religion were

stilled into
her from infancy.
Their labors were so
more remote from
she
first
came
to us, that
heart- affecting sense of divine things
my
But
evil habits or evil tempers.
when
not perceive,
on
far suc-
no child could be more obedient or obliging, or
cessful, that
roof, she,
in-
of course,
when her
ministry, and
could
she had any
but being under
my
health would permit, attended
was usually present when
prayed
and expounded the Scriptures, morning and evening,
in the
Friends and ministers were likewise frequently
family.
with us, whose character and conversation were well suited

to
engage her
notice,
and
to
help her to form a right idea
of the Christian principles and temper.
Knowing that she was of a thinking turn, I left her to

make her own reflections upon what she saw and heard,
*
committing her
to the direction
of the Lord, from
had received her, and entreating him

teacher.
When
But
did attempt to talk with her on the con-
cerns of her soul, she could give

tears.
whom
be her effectual
to
me no answer
but with
soon had great encouragement to hope that
the Lord had both enlightened her understanding, and had
drawn
the preaching.
stated times
seemed
Great was her
the desires of her heart to himself.
delight in the ordinances;
To
was a
to affect
exemplary her
attention
be debarred from going

trial,
to
hear
under
at
our
which, though she patiently bore,
her more than any other
and she did not
greatly care what she endured in the rest of the week, pro-
vided she was well enough to attend the public worship.
The
judicious observations she occasionally
made upon what
had passed in conversation, upon incidents, books, and
ser-
mons, indicated a sound, scriptural judgment, and a spiritual

taste.
And my hope was
confirmed by her whole deport-
ment, which was becoming the Gospel of Christ.

15*^
VOL. IIL
So
that
10
had she died suddenly on any day within about a year and
a half
past, I
should have had no doubt that she had passed
from death unto

to
But
life.
speak of herself;
if
could seldom prevail with her
she did,
it
was with
the greatest
diffi-
dence and caution.

In the
last
two or three weeks of her
acquainted with acute pain,
much
Her
a stranger.
gentle
under a long and languishing

of supporting pain.
per of language, but
she
became
then been
till
which had borne up
was
not so capable
any improper tem-
wore her away apace.
it
the 30th of September, she

time, and then she
spirit,
illness,
did not occasion
It
life,
which she had
to
was down
was brought down and
Friday,
stairs for the last
carried up in
my
arms.
now became very
It
more
desirable to hear from herself a
explicit account of the
cially as
hope that was in her
upon some symptoms of an approaching
cation, she
appeared
be a
to
little
espe-
mortifi-
alarmed, and of course
Her
not thoroughly reconciled to the thoughts of death.
aunt waited
for the first
convenient opportunity of intimat-
ing to her the probability that the time of her departure

at
hand.
The
next morning, Saturday, the
She found herself remarkably
presented one.
pains were almost gone
change was
My
dear,
visible in her
Her aunt began

"
to
her
spirits
was
of October,
better
her
the favorable
countenance.
were you not extremely
Had you
revived
break the subject
She answered, " Indeed

"
first
ill
to her,
last night
by saying,
?"
was."
not been relieved,
think
you could
not have
continued long."
"
"
My
your
believe I could not."

dear,
life."
have been very anxiously concerned
for
"But
my
hope,
dear aunt, you are not so now."
She then opened her mind, and spoke
The substance was
repeat the whole.
"
My
different
seen and
XI
views of things have been,
from what they were when
freely.
for
some
came
cannot
to this effect.
to
time, very
you.
have
the vanity of childhood and youth."
felt
Her aunt
said,
"
believe
you have long made con-
science of secret prayer."
She answered, " Yes,
have long and earnestly sought
the Lord, with reference to the change that
proaching.
sirable
have not that
but
have a hope,
full
now
is
assurance which
is
a good hope
and
I trust
ap-
so de-
be-
me whatêr he sees necessary for

She then said,
to
take me hence."
before
he
is
pleased
me
himself;
and then,
"I have prayed to him to fit me for
lieve the
whether
Lord
it
will give
be sooner or
later,
Here was a comfortable

had given up
fied that she
it
signifies but little."
point gained.
all
We
were
satis-
expectations of living, and
could speak of her departure without being distressed.

It will
not be expected that a child of her age should
speak systematically.
Nor had
she learned her religion
The
from a system or form of words, however sound.
Lord himself was her teacher.

had
But from what
times said to me,
at different
was well
satisfied that
she had received a true conviction of the nature of
of her
own
state
by nature
When
as a sinner.
she
little
sin,
and
she spoke
of the Lord, she meant the Lord Jesus Christ, the great
Shepherd,
them
in
who
in his
gathers such lambs in his arms, and carries
bosom.
one person
She believed him
was founded on
his atonement, grace,
not intend to put words into her
spoke,
to
be
God and man
and that hope of which she was not ashamed,
mention
this, lest
and power.
As
do
mouth which she never
any should be disappointed
at not
12
finding a certain phraseology to
which they have been
ac-
customed.
Her apparent
rcTival
was of
In the
short duration.
evening of the same day, she complained of a sore throat,
which became worse, and by Sabbath noon threatened
When
focation.
Dr. Benamor,
who
the
suf-
day before had
almost entertained hopes of her recovery, found her so sud-
denly and greatly altered, he could
not, at the
moment, pre-
vent some signs of concern from appearing in his counte-
She quickly perceived
nance.
plainly
When
you are
much
when
to the
My
"
said,
dear,
saw you on Saturday."
that she trusted all
replied, that
and
well,
and desired he would
he had recovered himself, he
not so well as
She answered,
He
it,
her his sentiments.
tell
would be
whether she lived or died
glory of God.
He
told
me
Avell soon.
would be
it
had
that he
pleasing conversation with her that morning, some
particulars of which he had committed to writing, but that
he had
lost
From
the paper.
that time she
may
be said to
have been dying, as we expected her departure from one

hour
to
another.
On Monday,
October 3d, she was almost free from any
complaint in the throat
but there was again an appearance
of a mortification in her legs

pelled
I
it
was, however, again re-
by the means which Dr. Benamor prescribed.

recollect but
little
of the incidents of this day
in
general she was in great pain, sometimes in agonies, unable

to
remain many minutes in the same
mind was peaceful.

and prayer
confined to
She possessed a
and her chief attention
position
spirit
but her
of recollection
to earthly things
the concern she saw in those around her.
she might not increase their distress, she strove

the sense of her sufferings.
It
to
was
That
conceal
pleased the Lord wonder-

fully to support
my
erable night's rest, though

live
tol-
would
did not expect the child
morning.
till
On
23
dear Mrs. Newton, and she had a
Tuesday, the
4th, about nine in the
we
morning,
all
thought her dying, and waited nearly two hours by her bedside, for
her
She was much convulsed, and
last breath.
in
great agonies.
I
by
said, "
My dear,
the grace of God,
you are going
we
She could not speak, but
to
heaven
and
hope,
due time follow you."
shall in
us
let
know by a
gentle nod
of her head, and a sweet smile, that she attended to what
said.
I
repeated to her
many
passages of Scripture and verses
of hymns, to each of which she
Though
answer.
silent,
made
the
same kind of
her looks were more expressive
than words.
Towards eleven
o'clock, a great quantity of coagulated
phlegm, which she had not strength

rattle violently in the throat,
that death
was
at
hand
take something that
was
think she
hour, had not Dr.
He
felt
bring up,
made her
and as she seemed unwillino;

offered to her,
disturb her in her last moments, (as
ing her.
to
which we considered as a sign
we
just then
to
loath to
supposed,) by press-
must have died
Benamor
we were
in a quarter of
come
an
into the room.
her pulse, and observed that she was not near
death by her pulse, and desired that something might be
given her.
to
She was perfectly
sensible,
though
still
unable
speak, but expressed her unwillingness to take any thing,
by her strongest
efforts.
However, she yielded
to entreaty,
and a teaspoonful or two of some liquid soon cleared the

passage, and she revived.
Her
and her disappointment great.

patience as on this occasion.
pain, however,
I
was extreme,
never saw her so near im-
As
soon as she could speak,
14
she cried, "
when
cruel, cruel, cruel, to recall me,
so happy, and so near gone
long to go home."
But
was
wish you had not come
in a fe^v minutes she
grew com-
posed, assented to what the doctor said of her duty to waif

the Lord's time
to
and from
that hour,
though her desires
depart and to be with her Saviour were stronger and
stronger, she cheerfully took whatever
and frequently asked
How
often,
counteract our
prolong her
for
were we
accord.
had entreated the Lord
she could leave an indisputable
behind her for our comfort: yet when
mony
agony, and heard her say,
O how
cruel to stop
wishing that the doctor had delayed his

if
she had died then,
we
visit
saw her
me
is
was
help
longer.
little
should have been deprived of
what we saw and heard the two following days
membrance of which
to
testi-
moment almost of her mind, and could hardly
for a
But
offered to her,
own
have our choice, should we
to
own prayers
life, till
was
something, of her
now much more
the re-
precious to
me
than
silver or gold.
When
him
the doctor
her
to tell
He
said, "
how long he thought

Are you
She answered,
At
'-
was
he thought
it
entreated
she might live.
my
in earnest,
Indeed
that time there
mortification
came on Wednesday, she

dear ?"
am."
were very great appearances
He
actually begun.
that a
therefore told her,
possible she might hold out
till
eight in the
evening, but did not expect she could survive midnight at
On
farthest.
seemed
to
hearing him say
them on him with an

" Oh, that
such
said,
to
so,
low as she was, her eyes
sparkle with their former vivacity; and fixing
is
air of inefTable satisfaction, she said,
good news indeed."
a person
who came
And
she repeated
it
as
soon afler into the room, and
with lively emotions of joy,
'
The
doctor
tells
me
;:

shall stay here but a
noticed and counted the clock,
and when
it
But
then."
believe every time
struck seven, she said,

it
her and
to us,
struck
us another day.
to
Wednesday
in the course of
Our kind
but wâs quite resigned and patient.

to
it
" Another hour, and
pleased the Lord to spare her
She suffered much
who, from their love
J5
few hours longer." In the afternoon she
watched her day and
night with a solicitude and tenderness which wealth
poor to purchase, were
night,
servants,
is
too
the only witnesses of the affectionate
and grateful manner in which she repeatedly thanked them
and attention
for their services
Though such an
to her.
acknowledgment was no more than due, yet coming from

herself,
and
at
such a time, they highly valued
She
it.
added her earnest prayers that the Lord would reward
To
them.
her prayers
my
heart says.
Amen.
May
they
be comforted of the Lord in their dying hours, as she was,
and meet with equal kindness from those around them

I
was surprised on Thursday morning
to find
her not
The tokens of
This was her last day,
again disappeared.
memorable day with us. When Dr. Benamor
only alive, but in some respects better.

mortification
and
it
was a
asked her how she

"
did,
Truly happy,"
said she, " and if this be dying,
pleasant thing to die."

friend of
She
it is
(The very expression which a dear
mine used upon her death-bed a few years ago.)
said to me, about ten o'clock, "
My
dear uncle,
would not change conditions with any person upon earth

O,
how
before
to
live,
health
gracious
me
;
!"
is
the
Lord
to
me
Oh, what a change
She was several times asked
if
is
she could wish
provided the Lord would restore her to perfect
her answer was, " Not for
all
the world ;" and
sometimes, " Not for a thousand worlds."
The
last
time she was asked this question, she said, as
; ; ;:
NARRATIVE OF ELIZA CUXXIXGHAM.
IQ
I
have been since informed, "
"
Do
not
weep
for
We
asked her
desire to have no choice."
my dear
my .account."
and praise on
rejoice
she, "
me," said
if
aunt, but rather
she would choose a text for her
own
funeral sermon.
Whom
She readily mentioned, "
the
chasteneth."
" That," said she, " has been
my
have been many, but not one
afflictions
has the greatest of them

for
them
there
*
is
But
all."
another
Lord loveth he
my experience
been too great
all
which may do better;
Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord
experience
;'
" In vain
my
fancy strives to paint
The moment after death

The glories that surround a
;
When
One
saint
yielding up his breath.
gentle sigh his fetters breaks,
We scarce can say,

Before the willing
Its
'
spirit
He's gone
!'
takes
mansion near the throne.
Faith strives, but
all its efforts fail,
To trace the spirit's flight

No eye can pierce within the
Which
vail
hides the world of light.
Thus much (and
this is all)
we
knoAv,
Saints are completely blest
Have done with
And
On
sin,
and care, and woe,
with their Saviour rest
harps of gold they praise his name,
His face they always view
Then
let
us followers be of them,
That we may praise him
too."
praise
him
let
She likewise chose a hymn
now."
nor
that
after the sermon.
"Stay,
after a pause, she said,
text
many
too
to
think
it
is
be,
my
be sung

But
must check myself, and
set
17
down but
a small part
of the gracious words w^hich the Lord enabled her to speak
though she was frequently
in the course of the day,
inter-
rupted by pains and agonies.
She had something
to say, either in
way
of admonition
or consolation, as she thought most suitable, to every one
she saw.
To
her most constant attendant she said,
continue to call on the Lord
hear you now, he will
and
at last, as
if
Be
'
he has heard me."
She spoke a great deal to an intimate friend,

with her every day, which
bed
how
Do you
Among
other things,
comfortable the
Lord can make a dying
you
have such an assurance
think that
shall
you come to die ?"
when
Being answered, "I hope
so,
my
" But do you earnestly, and with

the
who was
hope she will long remember,
as the testimony of her dying Eliza.
she said, " See
sure you
you think he does not
Lord
him."
for
If
it ?
for
all
your
you seek him, you
She then prayed
friend, afterwards
dear;" she replied,
affectionately
heart,
and fervently
her cousin, and then
to
for
her
another of
for
Her prayer was
our family who was present.
pray
shall surely find
not long,
but every word was weighty, and her manner was very
The
affecting.
purport was, that they might
be taught
all
and comforted by the Lord.
About
five in the afternoon, she desired
her once more.
When
I
said, "
had
Surely
finished, she said, "
My dear child, have
She answered, " O, yes

to say.
I
Why are
These were the

VOL.
III.
!"
his chariot
hope he will enable
me
last
me
then prayed from
to
to
my
pray with
heart.
Amen."
expressed your meaning ?"
and then added, "
wheels so long
in
am
coming
ready
?
But
wait his hour with patience."
words
16
heard her speak.
18
Mrs. Newton's heart was much, perhaps too much,

tached
dear
to this
considering what
cliild
is
how
lolig
was more cause
separation will be
concern
for
my
aunt
sleep;
Her
shall
said to those about her, "
was
think
was
the
Try
from Westminster
to see
up, that
to
who heard her
My
her,
who dearly
who had come
was below
her,
may
said, "
Her aunt
go
the morning."
till
person
last
persuade
to
shall soon
and a
remained
by her bed when she went away.
sitting
was beloved by
loved her, and
me
feelings,
after six, hearing that a relation
little
" Raise
room
remain with you
not
aunt, however,
speak, and
knew her
believe, the last anxiety that
leave the
to
Indeed,
joy than for grief; yet the pain of
Eliza well
felt.
her was,
She
with her.
for
at,
and
But the Lord was pleased
suffered.
graciously to support her in this trying season.

there
at-
not to be wondered
a child she was, and
sort of
how much she had
which
speak
to
daily
she said,
stairs,
him once more."
you are nearly exhausted,
dear,
think you had better not attempt it."
She smiled, and
said, " It is
very well,
will not."
She was then within half an hour of her

glory
but the love of her dear Lord had so
benevolence, that she was ready
translation to
filled
her with
exert herself to her last
to
breath, in hope of saying something that might be useful to
others after she
was gone.
Towards seven
o'clock,
and earnestly engaged
came
is
to
me and
thy power
before,
had
said, "
how
in
She
great
was walking
prayer
is
when
Lord,
gone."
is
thy goodness
life
have
words. She
is
a servant
how
great
few days
been practicable and lawful, what would
it
not have given to procure her recovery
my
in the garden,
for her,
known
Yet seldom
a more heartfelt joy than
gone, sounded in
my
ears.
when
ran up
in
these
stairs.

and our whole
I9
family was soon around
little
her bed.
Though her aunt and another person were sitting with their
eyes fixed upon her, she was gone perhaps a few minutes
She lay upon her
was missed.
before she
left side,
her cheek gently reclining upon her hand, as

sleep
and
ful, inviting
I
think
may
last
Yes,
my
say,
for his
satisfied
am
to life, to health, to
gentle
comforted.
And
it.
plished.
The days
our God
crowned
in
a dismission.
if
one of the
have shed, could have recalled her
an assemblage of
Now my
beauti-
returned,
to
to her,
so
contribute to her happiness,
suppress
most unfeigned thanks
abundant goodness
involuntary tears
more
in a
upon our knees, and
fell
by giving her
instance,
am
many
We
form.
and Saviour,
this
thought there was a smile upon her counte-
Never, surely, did death appear
nance.
with
a sweet
if in
all
that this world could
would have labored hard
largest desires for her are
to
accom-
She
of her mourning are ended.
is
landed on that peaceful shore where the storms of trouble
never blow.
She
is for
temptation, and snares.

sees
ever out of the reach of sorrow,
Now
Him, whom not having
is
she before the throne
seen, she loved
sin,
she
she drinks of
the rivers of pleasure which are at his right hand, and shall
thirst
no more.
She was born February

She breathed her
little
before
6,
1771.
spirit into
her Redeemer's hands a
seven in the evening, on October
6,
1785,
aged fourteen years and eight months.
T shall
be glad
couragement
if this little
to Christians
narrative
who have
may
prove an en-
children.
May we
not conceive the Lord saying to us, as Pharaoh's daughter

said to the mother of Moses, "
up
for
me, and
will
Take
this child,
pay thee thy wages ?"
and bring
How
it
solemn
20
the trust
important and
difficult the
rich the reward, if our endeavors are
And we have every

ness,
if,
aim
thing to hope from his
at fulfilling his will.
day, " Behold, here
at the last
which thou hast given me
Many
it
how
but
power and good-
dependence upon his blessing, we can fully and
in
diligently
say
charge of
crowned with success
Happy
am
I,
they,
who
f"
children will likewise see this narrative.
convince them that
Lord betimes
shall
and the children
May
it
is
practicable and good to seek the
My dear
Eliza's state of languor prevented
it
her from associating with young people of her
own age
so
frequently and freely as she might otherwise have done.
But these papers
them
my
Oh,
come
will
particularly
up the
filled
have been affected by
tainly come, unless
when you
scene of her
last
Let not the
life,
you must
your
liveliness of
will say
that to
you likewise, days
cer-
will
you are suddenly snatched out of

and
feel that the
world, and
But there
you no pleasure.
Christ, a
those
it
and the gayety of the prospect around you, prevent
you from considering,
afford
To
hands of such.
dedicate this relation.
dear young friends, had you seen with what dignity
of spirit she
spirits,
into the
recommend and
is
all in
it,
life,
can
a Saviour, Jesus
Mighty One, always near, always gracious
who seek him.
May
to
you, like her, be enabled to
choose him as the Guide of your youth, and the Lord of
your
hearts.
Then,
comfort under
like
affliction,
her,
you
wisdom
will find support
to direct
and
your conduct, a
good hope in death, and by death a happy translation

everlasting
I
liigh
have only
may
friends,
to
add
my
prayers that a blessing from on
descend upon the persons and families of
and upon
identially
to
life.
come.
all into
whose hands
all
my
paper may
JOHN NEWTON.
this
prov-
No. 84,
ON
THE LORD'S SUPPER

BY E.EV HENP.Y GP.OVE
And
he said unto them. With desire
over with you before
The
I suffer.
Luke 22
I
:
have desired
to eat this pass-
15.
principal design of the Lord's
Supper
is,
perpetual commemoration of the death of Christ.
to
be a
" This
" As often as ye eat this bread,

ye do show the Lord's death till he
have then no better way to acquire a proper
do in remembrance of me."
and drink
come."
this cup,
We
notion of this ordinance, than
by obtaining correct views of
THE NATURE AND CIRCUMSTANCES OF ChRIST's DEATH. Not

to dwell now on the death of Christ as he was the noblest
martyr to the truth, or as our example, we remark,
16*
VOL. III.
ON THE LORD'S SUPPER.
The
1.
of love.
hath no
is to be viewed as an exhiUtion
an observation of our Lord, that " greater love
death of Christ
It is
man
than
that,
this, that
we were
while
man
we who had been enemies might
We
suffered,
in the
voluntarily submitted to by
him
ness of those for
whom
God by
finally, in the
he procured
and
eternal
in
and
his nearness to
is
in the
greatness of the sufferings
he
the ignominious death of the cross
sin
us,
God by
be reconciled to
being the "only begotten Son, which
bosom of the Father:"
To
his life for his
towards
see the greatness of this love, in
who
the dignity of the person
he
down
his love
yet sinners, Christ died for us," that
the death of his Son.
God
lay
God commendeth
friends;" "but
suffered death, even
in the great unworthi-
sinners and enemies to
he suffered
greatness of the benefit which
life.
memory
perpetuate the
of his dying love, our Sav-
iour instituted this Supper, to be observed until his second
Such a
coming.
ten,
and never
friend to souls ought never to be forgot-
and we have reason
Supper
name
inscribed upon
means of preserving
This, then,
is
it is
one view which
will prove a
it,
memory
a lively
we
means appointed
the
which,
to believe that this ordinance,
like a pillar, bears his
principal
church on earth
will be, so long as there is a
of him.
are to take of the Lord's

to
perpetuate the
memory
of Christ's dying love, and of the love of God, manifested in
And
his death.
perish
oh, let the
Let our
remembrance of his death never

and strengthened by this
love, inflamed
holy ordinance, keep alive the

to
memory of his. We deserve

if we can forget our Re-
be eternally forgotten of God,
deemer.
But
it is
the
commandment
of God, " that he
who
loveth
God, love his brother also." The same is Christ's "new

commandment " to his disciples. " A new commandment I
give unto you, That ye love one another
you, that ye also love one another."
We
as
have
have loved
all
a better

claim
one another's love, than any of us can pretend
to
have had
able a return for
it,
our love for the brethren
to
bear their burdens,
sion be, in laying
Thy
because
love,
we
love, if
fail
of making so reason-
But how
In a readiness
itself?
and
to relieve their necessities,
office
of kindness to them
down our
O my
show
to
lives for
to dis-
nay, if occa-
them.
me
Saviour, constraineth
to all this,
thus judge, that thou didst die for me, that
And what am
not live to myself, but to thee.
to
shall prove ourselves
as that of brotherly affection.
is
charge every other
We
of God.
to the love
doubly unworthy of his
"
to
should
under-
stand by living to thee, but doing those things which will be
most acceptable
in the
world
to thee,
what, but
and most serviceable
my
receive some of those advantages from
much
they would, in a
wert upon earth
me, may,
my
higher degree, from thine,
little
may
example, which
that thy Spirit, breathing
some
in
thy cause
to
so living, that the world
if
thyself
and acting
in
measure, supply thy personal ab-
sence ?"
2.
The
when he
death of Christ
pointed
him out
to
is
We may here say,
sacrifice.
be viewed as an expiatory
as did our Lord's forerunner,
to the
Jews, " Behold the
God, which taketh away the sin of the world
!"
once, in the end of the world, hath he appeared, to

sin
by the
sacrifice of himself."
"
Who
our sins in his own body on the tree."
his
Lamb
of
" But
own
now
put away
self bare
Christ's death hav-
ing thus the nature of an expiatory sacrifice,
we may regard
Supper as a commemorative representation of

sacrifice, and as a feast upon it.
the Lord's
this
The Lord's Supper
is a commemorative representation of
which Christ made of himself on the cross. This
the language of the institution itself. From that we learn,
the sacrifice
is
that " the bread
given for us
Christ,
we
eat, is
the
body of
Christ,
and that the cup we drink,
which was shed
for
us."
is
The death
which was
the blood of
of Christ was a
propitiatory sacrifice
and. as such,
the ordinance of the Supper.

resentation of this sacrifice
Every time
he does, as
The
is
it
commemorated
Lord's Supper
faint, indeed,
in
a rep-
but significant.
the believer receives the consecrated elements,
were, lay his hands upon the sacrifice repre-
it
sented by them, and plead with God, in virtue of
don and acceptance

he does
is
for par-
it,
thus uniting his prayers, and
God,
in the service of
to the intercession
that
all
of the great
High Priest, who is passed into the heavens.

There are two things which we are especially taught by
the representation of Christ's sacrifice in the Supper
great evil of
and the willingness of God
sin,
to
the
pardon
it.
We
see the evil of sin in the sufTerings of other men, and
feel
it
in
our own
but
death reigning from

afford so
the infelicities of
to the last
he,
and
who is styled the Son of God, to denote

Lamb of God, to signify his innocence,
the
How
to expiate the guilt of sin ?
And why am
my
sufferings of
that
and
life,
convincing and affecting an evidence of the evil of
Must
dignity,
guilt
human
of his posterity, do not
do the sufferings and death of the Son of God.
sin, as
"
all
Adam
may
against
enormous must be
Such,
to
am
that
take occasion, from the dreadful
Saviour, to reflect on the evil of
be excited
it ?
to
his
die
hate
it,
and
to resolve
sensible, is the
sin,
but
and watch
end designed.
do
therefore renounce all league and friendship with sin, and,
out of love to Jesus, resolve to seek
Great
is
my encouragement
before me,
forgive
to
do
this
its
utter destruction.
for, in
find the strongest proof that
all sin.
the ordinance
God
is
ready
to
If the sacrifice
Christ died as a sacrifice.
was not accepted, why is this perpetual memorial of it ? If

it was insufficient, why is there not a repetition of the sacrifice itself, instead
versy,
is
God
is
of
its
actually reconciled to
The
representation
in Christ reconciling the
Lord's Supper
is
all that
Without contro-
world
to himself,
and
repent and believe."
a feast upon a sacrifice.
It is
called
'
feast, in allusion to the
our Passover
As
sacrificed for us."
is
upon the paschal lamb,
Jewish Passover
after
it
had
Jews
the
feasted
been presented
first
God, so do we, sacramentally and by
" for even Christ
upon
faith,
to
Christ.
This view of the ordinance suggests several things of importance.
As a feast, it is expressive of the communion of saints.

Eating and drinking together was ever reckoned among the
ancients a
it
mark
means of perpetuating
was prepared for this very end for,
amounted to a mutual promise of the par-
of friendship, and a
especially if a feast
as one observes,
ties to live
it
Of all
together in peace and unity.
aids to Christian love, there
holy communion.
It is
is
the external
none of such efficacy as the
recorded of the primitive disciples,
that " they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine
fellowship, and in breaking of bread."
"
And
and
the multitude
of them that believed were of one heart, and of one soul."

If
they
who
are of the
same
same
family, and eat at the
table, cannot live together in friendship, their
temper must
be unhappy indeed.
in the
If they who,
ordinances, and receiving the

into
by joining
same
one mystical body, and united
same
Spirit, are incorporated
to
one head, cannot main-
harmony among themselves, we should never

dissension among others.
tain a tolerable
wonder
The
at
Lord's Supper being a feast upon a sacrifice, we
have fellowship in
Christ.
The
the altar, his table

there,
house
it
no longer the
;
with the Father, and with his
temple, under the law,
was
and the sacrifices brought

offerer's,
Son Jesus
the house of
to
God
be offered
but the provisions of God's
and were therefore called the bread of God.
When
was allowed to partake of his own sacrifice, he

was to look upon himself as God's guest. And is not every
Christian church, in some sense, the Lord's house ?
Is not
the communion table, the table of the Lord ? and what is
provided, the "Lord's Supper?"
the offerer
6
" Thinkj then,
art raised
O my
that the
God himself vouchsafes
that
worthy receiver welcome

This
is
honor
soul, of the
Lord Jesus
his presence,
to the
something more than
greatest person upon earth.
to
which thou
Master of the
is
feast,
and
and bids every
entertainments of his house
to be a
guest at the table of the
Thou
art as truly the guest of
God, though not entertained with the same magnificence, as

they are
whom
he hath advanced
to
dwell in his heavenly
palace."
Since such is the nature of this ordinance, that the

" bread which we break, is the communion of the body of
and the cup of blessing which we bless, is the com;

munion of the blood of Christ;" what manner of persons
ought communicants to be, in all purity of heart and life,
Christ
who
are received into immediate
converse with the holy
God, and with his Son Jesus Christ, the image of

ness
"What communion
we say that we have

ness, we lie, and do
light,
as he
not the truth
but if
we have
all
we walk
in the
fellowship one with
Son cleanseth us
another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his
from
"If
fellowship with him, and walk in dark-
in the light,
is
his holi-
hath light with darkness ?"
sin."
The Lord's Supper being a feast upon a sacrifice, we

it as a solemn form of renewing our covenant
should consider
with God, and as a means of our participating in the blessings
of the covenant.
ises of
God
fulfilled, is,
nant."
ple,
who
The book
to Israel,
of the law, containing the prom-
and the terms on which they would be
this account, called " the
on
When
this
book of the cove-
book was read in the hearing of the peo-
promised, " All that the Lord hath said will
and be obedient," beasts were offered

blood was sprinkled upon the people,
ratification of
in sacrifice,
to
Gospel being God's
new covenant
with
do,
denote the solemn
God's covenant with them.
denominated the blood of the covenant.
we
and their
This blood was
In like manner, the

all
those
who believe
'
New
in Jesus, the
Testament, in which the Gospel
is
record-
may very properly be styled " the book of the covenant."

The blood of Christ, by which this covenant was confirmed,
is expressly called " the blood of the covenant."
The coveed,
nant of grace has respect
And
foundation.
to the sacrifice
ramentally and spiritually partake of

rally suggests the thought of
we
its
both sac-
this sacrifice,
natu-
it
renewing our covenant with
God, and the dedication of ourselves
The
of the cross, as
since, in the Lord's Supper,
to
him.
time of our approaching the Lord's table may,
first
on some accounts, be deemed the most solemn

first
communicate
and
blood
and,
in the
as
we then
memorials of our Saviour's body
by these sacred symbols, confirm and

to God ; but we renew this dedi-
solemnize our dedication
cation or covenant every time
we
receive the holy com-
munion.
The
by
soul
faith
such manner as
this
may hear God speaking to it, in some

" Come hither, O thou whom I love
!
do here promise, upon the body and blood of my Son, to

be thy God, to do for thee whatever is implied in this relaI
tion
let
body and blood be witness between
this
thee, for the
performance of
my
me and
promise."
" With all humility and grateful joy," replies the soul,
"do I accept thy offer, O most merciful God, and, on the
same pledges, I promise to be thine. Taking thee, O Father
my
Almiglity, for
tion
thee,
and advocate
and guide,
my
God,
my
Father, and
Son of God, for my

and thee, O blessed
my
everlasting por-
all-sufficient
Spirit, for
helper and comforter
would
self a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God,
reasonable service.'
my
'
Redeemer
sanctifier
present
which
my-
is
my
take the precepts of the Gospel for
my actions, and rely on its promises as the

immovable foundation of my hopes. I resign myself to thy
disposal, acknowledge myself bound to live to thy glory,
and promise, by thy grace assisting me, to be obedient and
the rule of
This
faithful unto death.
covenanted, but
now
being sensible that
swear
to
away and being
have thus
fast.
have con-
driven far off from
Lord
be obedient and faithful.
oath, be thou
Can any
my
thou art witness
help."
thing be more solemn and binding than a cove-
nant so transacted
It
time
first
do therefore, again, upon the body and blood of Christ
thee.
my
not the
cannot be bound too
tinual fear of breaking
to
is
cheerfully renew the engagement,
follows, that the Lord's
Supper
is
ticipating in the benefits of the covenant
means of our
par-
such as peace of
conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, strength of grace, and

more overflowing hopes of future blessedness. No ordinance
is better fitted to kindle devout affections than this; in which
we have
the Prince of
life
ing, bleeding, groaning,
Such
sin.
crucified before our eyes, suffer-
and dying,
a representation
save us and destroy
to
is fitted to
excite
emotions of the heart, and, at the same time,
concurrence of the understanding.
Our
the tender
all
to
engage the
affections
can never
be so highly excited by this ordinance, that our reason will

not approve
ment
and
It
it.
may
be added, that receiving the sacra-
being, with the sincere Christian, an act of obedience
God and the Saviour, he may warrantably

He communes because he delights in
duty and will not God bestow some marks
love, both to
expect a reward.
performing his
of his special favor upon his willing servant

" Surely,
ordained
is
to
O my
be an empty ceremony
and drinking were not
soul, this eating

!
The
thing signified,
thy feeding by faith on the body and blood of Christ.
This thou doest indeed

now, when thy
at other times,
faith in a crucifi'id
but more particularly
Saviour
He
view of the memorials of
his death.
self for thee on the cross,
and who now
is
exercised in
that
offers
gave himhimself
to
thee in the ordinance of the Supper, can withhold nothing
from thee."
Does not the very occasion seem
to justify our expecta"the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the

love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Ghost ?" What
tion of partaking in
when we
time so proper to receive these blessings, as
are
receiving the pledges of them, and renewing his covenant in
which they are promised ? Where should our King bestow the
which he has received for men, if not at his own table ?
gifts
3.
death.
The
death of Christ
"Forasmuch,
is to
be viewed as a victory over
then, as the children are partakers
of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the
same ; that through death he might destroy him that had the
power of death, that is, the devil." The wisdom of God is
remarkably seen, in defeating the malice of wicked men and
by the very means which they employ to
How great was Satan's
apostate spirits
bring to pass their evil devices.

triumph, when, having put
Christ,
it
into the heart of
he saw the dreadful deed accomplished
blow
empire.
to his
to
to
betray
crucify him,
Little did he
would prove the
Christ had overcome the devil in
imagine that his success, in

fatal
Judas
and pushed on the Jews and Romans

!
this instance,
"the wilderness;" but on the cross his victory was rendered
more complete, by the influence of his death

and to abolish death, the effect of sin.
Many have
who conquered
conquered at their death
not
ly dying
universal and last
was born
is
that he
die,
and he died
men once
to
a resurrection for
life
men
all
eternal.
when we show
as vanquished.
but here
and
is
one
but the
itself!
to rise again.
die;" but Christ died
destroy that death which passeth upon
rection to
common enemy,
enemy of mankind, even death
might
appointed unto
to destroy sin,
all
He
"It
to
men, by obtaining
for all that
do good, a resur-
Let us then think of our dying Lord,
his death in the Supper, as vanquishing, not
Let
his death be considered as the
purchase
of our immortality, and his resurrection as the pledge and
assurance of
VOL. III.
it.
17
10
"
Why
should
tasted of the
same
fear to die
bitter
cup
followed by his resurrection
certainty that
liveth.
Saviour
I die,
have the same
shall rise in the last day, as I
my
not
not his death soon
In like manner, though
because Christ
I shall live again,
Hath
And was
my
have that
Redeemer is already risen and that I shall rise to dwell

with him hereafter, as that I live and die to him now. While,
therefore, I commemorate the death of my Redeemer, I will
;
celebrate his conquest over death, and comfort myself with

the prospect of the triumph of all his
day.
last
'
thy victory
sin is the
death,
The
law
where
members over
sting of death
is sin,
but thanks be to God,
victory through Jesus Christ our Lord.'
We
may
thy sting?
is
it
at the
grave, where
is
and the strength of
who
giveth us the
"
consider the death of Christ as the ground of
Because " he humbled himself and became
his exaltation.
obedient unto death, even the death of the cross," therefore

"
God
also hath highly exalted him, and given
which is above every name

knee should bow, of things
and things under the earth
confess that Jesus Christ
The world
Father."
that at the
in
him a name
of Jesus every
heaven, and things in earth,
and that every tongue should
is
name
Lord,
to the
glory of
God
the
subjected to his authority; and
is
all
by a voluntary obedience.
From the humiliation of Christ, which is the thing first
presented to us in the memorials of his death, let us pass,
must acknowledge
in
our thoughts,
suffered,
that
it,
am
to
He first
am hence taught,
to the exaltation that followed.
and then entered
into glory.
gain the favor of God, not by extolling the
obedience and resignation of his Son, while

ful
and repining temper
eousness, while
a stranger to
that
can
imitating
its
am
not
by
indulge a
fret-
trusting to Christ's right-
without the love of righteousness, and
practice.
may
my
not indulge the thought,
Saviour did
rise
otherwise than
him
in his hatred of iniquity, I
that without
can receive the
!::

same marks of
his favor as they
that a part of the
descend on one
who
my
endeavors
the
same degree
I shall
Let these con-
wilfully disobedient.
the necessity of holiness, and animate
acquire the highest measure of
to
as
him
imitate
my Saviour
approach
it
for in
in holiness
now,
approach him in glory hereafter.
The
4.
is
me
siderations teach
who do thus
glory obtained by his obedience, can
death of Christ
is to
"As
his second appearance.
be viewed in
often as
ye eat
its
relation to
this
bread and
till
he co?ne."
drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death
was once offered to bear the sins of many ;" so,

" unto them that look for him, shall he appear the second
As
" he
We
time without sin unto salvation."

died
and
to publish this belief,
We
ordinance.
ascended
to
It is
his death in this
he rose from the dead,
also believe that
heaven, and that he will thence descend, in the
same manner as he ascended

his death
believe that Christ
we show
till
The
he come.
to testify this belief,
we show
ordinance has a double aspect.
both a thankful commemoration of our Saviour's death,
and a joyful pledge of
his second advent.
In view of this
advent, every friend of Christ should be ready to exclaim,

in the ecstasy of his soul, "
In this mystery
ly.'
'
Come, Lord Jesus, come quick-
see thee darkly as through a glass
O when shall I behold thee, face to face ? When will this

Sun of righteousness break through every intervening cloud,
that I may see him in all his glory ?
These indistinct and
distant views are refreshing
pleasure of being
Lord
!'
when
'
how
great, then, will be the
absent from the body, and present with the
shall put on
my glorified
thousand times ten thousand of his
upon
earth, shall ascend to
meet him
body, and with
saints, that
in the air
many
have lived
when I
shall
be publicly absolved and acknowledged by him, and by him

presented holy and without blame to God, even our Father
What
will be
my
transports,
when
arrayed in majesty and love, and
fall
shall see
worshipping
my
Saviour
at his feet
!"
;;
ON THE LORD'S SUFFER.
12
Did
this
of Christ,
sacred ordinance only lead us back
would
it
We should have
no object before us but such as would feed
But, blessed be God,
our sorrow.
death
to the
melancholy entertainment.
afford but a
from the death of Christ, forward
carries our thoughts,
it
to the
day when he
will
be revealed in the glory of his Father, and of his holy angels.

Thine eye, O Christian, shall behold him ; thine, and not
another's
Thy
he ever liveth
church
he
" Is
and
govern the world, and intercede
to
be
for his
gone, but he will return again.
really so, that
it
am
is
Saviour died, but he has not ceased
to
love the appearance of Christ,
persuaded that what the Scriptures say concerning
the circumstances and consequences of his appearance, will
certainly take place
be
Is
my
to declare
and
to
to
What manner
my
one end of
it
prepare for his coming,
Let
with joy.
my
Lord
am
at the
and that
will
may
me
Let
time of
my
me
death,
the
account
not the hour
forget, that
shall be found in
shall probably die as
The principal use of
my
give up
to
know
never
These thoughts suggest some

1.
with a constant regard to
to live
be able
watch, for
come.
I to
coming to judge the world

This should remind me
belief of Christ's
be glorified in his saints
the great day, that
of person ought
partaking of the Lord's Supper,
when
such as
judgment
have lived."
practical reflections.
Lord's Supper
is, to
promote
This is
of believers.
the noblest end that can be accomplished in believers ; being
inseparably connected with the honor of God and their own
true godliness in the hearts
felicity.
and
lives
Perhaps no one ordinance advances
effectually, as the Lord's Supper.
mind of our
its
It
this
end so
not only puts us in
duty, but also presents us powerful motives to
performance.
The
allurements of example, the demands
of love, the amiableness of the divine character, the rewards

of holiness, and the punishment of sin, are
all
presented in
ON THE LORD'S SUPPER

one ordinance.
this
It
on
splitting
our
it,
but rests in the present action
We cannot too carefully avoid
Partaking of the Lord's Supper
this rock.
is,
no more than a means of promoting our piety
after all,
and not
in
greatly deceived.
is
summary of the helps

way to heaven. Whoever
exhibits a
which God has afforded us

does not take this view of
merely,
13
be compared with the power of Christianity in
to
the heart, and the substantial virtues of a good
These
life.
are of indispensable necessity and eternal excellence.
We are hence
a right
come
to
enabled
measure attained
to
supremely
flies
to
he
is
this
advance, possesses the qualifica-
worthy communicant.
and charity
what characters have

He who has in some
temper and conduct which
that
ordinance was intended

tions of a
to ascertain
Lord's table.
to the
humble and
He
has
penitent
faith,
and hope,
loves his Saviour
makes conscience of every known duty, and
every known
sin.
He
is
not indeed perfect in these
respects, but he should not therefore abstain from the Lord's
Supper
since,
by devoutly partaking of
gain assistance in going on
it,
he
may
hope
to
to perfection.
But perhaps there are some who think more is requisite ;

who view the consequence of communing unworthily, as
being so dreadful, that nothing short of an
of piety,
or, at least,
our coming
will justify
uncommon degree
an assurance of our being truly pious,

to the
Lord's table.
But
if
true
and not any particular degree of it, is the condition

of salvation, it is unreasonable to suppose that something
further is required to commemorate the death of our Saviour.
piety,
If all
are not absolutely assured of their piety were to
who
absent themselves from the supper, very few would partake
of
it.
Let us not indulge unnecessary
fears.
Nothing,
either in the nature or the design of this ordinance, need
deter
any
real Christian from
to celebrate
compliance
VOL. III.
it.
its
On
complying with the command
the contrary, every thing invites his
nature being that of a religious
17^
feast,
and
14
its
design, to preserve the
memory
of a Friend and Bene-
factor.
The passage
in the eleventh chapter of the first epistle
which has given birth to so many fears

was directed against those who partook of
the Lord's Supper in a manner so irreverent, that they might
to the Corinthians,
on
this subject,
very well be said " not
to
did not even observe that

table,
They
discern the Lord's body."
decorum and sobriety
which become Christians
at their
own.
at the
Lord's
The
apostle
does indeed say, that he " that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth
and drinketh damnation
ing the Lord's body ;" but
to himself, not discern-
the apostle himself inform us,
let
what he means by eating and drinking unworthily, and by the

The irregularities which occadamnation thus incurred.
sioned this part of the epistle, will explain the former
and
the evils inflicted in consequence of these irregularities, the
" For this cause," says the apostle, " many among
latter.
It seems,
you are weak and sickly, and many sleep."
then, that bodily disorders, sickness, and death, were the
damnation or judgment to which he referred, and that it
was not future and eternal punishment. It is added, that they

"were judged or chastened of the Lord, that they might
Their being "guilty
not be condemned with the world."
of the body and blood of the Lord," therefore, means their
showing such disrespect to the ordinance of Christ's body
and blood, as would expose them to the effects of God's
displeasure.
2.
satisfy
From what has been

ourselves
we may
be enabled
to
respecting the preparation necessary
to
said,
Do
every particular communion.
possess a disposition of
mind proper for this sacred action ? Have I clean hands

and a pure heart? Am I laboring under no disorders of
body or mind, which incapacitate me for attending upon this
ordinance without distraction
any present opportunity
ought
to celebrate
it.
not, then, to neglect

I
may
not, perhaps.
15
have spent the usual time in preparatory exercises of devotion
but if
has been through no fault of mine
it
myself, notwithstanding, so
worship of God, as
my
to raise
much
am
if I find
my thoughts
be able to compose
to
affections to him,
disposed for the ordinary
and
not to suppose myself
forbidden to approach the Lord's table.
Do
much
find
worldly affections
world inordinately, or
must renounce
it
difficult for
time required
have reason
am
too
much
to
involved in
that attachment to the world
me
my
empty
heart of
to fear that I love

its
which renders
and converse with God.
to retire
the
cares.
must
cultivate an habitually pious frame of mind, so that
may
not be obliged to have recourse to certain extraordinary acts
of meditation, prayer, and humiliation, at the approach of
every communion
of
my
and
lay upon them the main stress
to
preparation at least, if not of
who do
so,
my
of superstition in
this,
which adds neither
They
religion.
ought to inquire, whether there
is
not something
to the
comfort nor
the credit of their religion.

It is
by no means
my
desire to discourage due prepara-
tion for celebrating this ordinance

offer a
few
thinirs
on the contrary,
communicants
to assist
shall
in makino-
such
preparation.
They who
expect to approach the Lord's table, should
particularly examine whether, in respect to the habitual
temper of
their minds,
backward or forward
ful for
and tenor of their
in religion.
every victory they
may
They
lives,
they go
should be thank-
have been enabled
to
gain
over themselves and the world, for any progress they have
made
in the divine life.

They should, at the same time,
humble themselves for their many defects that their conduct has been no more conformed to the example and precepts of Christ ; that they are no more steadily and powerfully influenced by his love.
They should inquire, whether
there be not some part of their practice which neither agrees
;
X6
with the rules of their Christian profession, nor with other

parts of their character
whether they have not lived
in
some hurtful indulgence, or neglected some spiritual gift.

" In all things" must they strive "to adorn the doctrine of
God our Saviour."

They should especially select those subjects for meditation, which tend most to weaken their attachment to the
woild to unite their hearts to God and his Son Jesus Christ
;
and
to elevate their
views of the character, the necessity,
the beauty, and the advantages of true religion
subjects
which will warm their hearts with gratitude and zeal, render
sin more hateful, and perfection in holiness more desirable.
Such meditations will have the happiest tendency to awaken
their minds when drowsy, and to cheer them when drooping;
by which means they
will
approach the Lord's table with
equal care and satisfaction.
The preceding thoughts may inform us what it is to

worthily.
As they are the most worthy communicants who have most of Christ's spirit within them, so that
is the most worthy manner of communing which flows most
from his Spirit. It consists not so much in rapturous flights
3.
commune
of the imagination, and strong workings of the passions, as

in a clear discernment of the spiritual import of the ordi-
nance, and a lively sense of the benefits resulting from
Am
much
story
that
in
is told ?
However much
less the operations of
who
is
assisted
by
to
motives
have
it
may
flatter
myself, these are
The
grace than of nature.
this
and the love of Jesus
many
it.
by the representation of Christ's sufferings

the same manner as I am by the recital of a sad
Does the impression wear away like that of a tale
affected
ordinance
to see the
in delivering
Christian
great evil of sin,
him from
it ;
exhibits to holiness of heart and
to feel the
life,
so as
his pious resolutions established, his tenderness of
conscience increased, and
all
his actions brought
more un-
der the influence of the doctrines and precepts of Christian-

ity
he who communes most worthily, whether he has or
is
17
has not the happiness of
warm
affections.
Finally, ice are hence taught the advantage of frequent
communions.
The advantage
that frequent
is,
promote our progress
in the Christian life
that the frequency of
communions destroys
communions
the objection
is,
their solemnity.
But I apprehend that the objector deceives himself with a

wrong notion of solemnity. Is it meant that communicants
Supper with the same unaccountable
minds ? What then, if they are
will npt approach the
awe and dread upon
their
but serious and devout
any
for
to
We
should think
it
adopt the resolution, not to worship
very absurd
God
in their
families during the week, lest they should destroy the so-
own
lemnity of his worship in his
The
day.
house, and on his
cases are not very dissimilar.
ousness and fervor of
spirit, is, in
An
own
habitual seri-
the nature of things, to be
expected from the frequent returns of holy duties, not from

long intermissions of them
we
are, the better shall
we
and the more habitually serious

be prepared
to
wait upon
God
in
every ordinance.
Having explained
the nature and design of the Lord's
Supper, and offered a few things by
way
of reflection,
would next turn your thoughts to the obligation of Christians TO OBSERVE THIS ORDINANCE.
1.
Consider that the command
remembrance of me."
The
tended alike for the benefit of

confirms extending to
was designed
fice,
all,
to lead the
were commanded
to
him
in the world.
all
"This do
ages, and the covenant
thoughts of Christians
all.
observe
after his death, thus to
is,
express
the institution of the Supper,
must equally respect
that
is
Paul says
in
sacrifice of Christ being init
which
to this sacri-
Accordingly, the apostles
in rememlrance of Christ,
keep up the remembrance of
it
to the Corinthians, "
as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do
As
often
show the
18
Lord's death
he come."
till
But
in
what way could the
disciples be said to show, or represent the death of Christ, in

this ordinance,
were
to
till
observe
his coming, if they only of the first ages
The words
it ?
manifestly imply, that as
Christ would always have a church on earth, so

the duty of
its
members
to
commemorate
should appear the second time, and receive them
The Gospel
being divine,
all
precepts
its
it
would be
his death
to
till
he
himself.
come from
God, are the result of his wisdom, and have the stamp of
The language
his authority.
them
is,
God."
of voluntary disobedience to
"I regard neither the wisdom nor

This language
is
the authority of
as really implied in the violation
of those precepts which respect the Lord's Supper, as of any

other in the Gospel.
therefore
It
becomes those who absent themselves from
the Lord's table, to take this matter into serious considera-
Are they indeed careless about receiving the holy

communion ? Do they go on, year after year, without once
tion.
inquiring whether there be a
which they are bound

statutes
command respecting it, or one

Have they no solicitude
?
observe
recommend themselves
to
God, by walking in
to
and ordinances blameless
disobedience,
It
to
it
has
much
all
his
If this be not wilful
of the same character and guilt.
cannot be supposed that any sincere Christian will pay so
little
respect to the
commands
of Jehovah.
Consider the person who
is the immediate Author of

command, and in memory of whom the Supper ivas instituted.
It is no other than Jesus Christ, our Lord and Sav-
2.
this
iour,
one
to
whom we acknowledge ourselves infinitely inwhom we profess to have the greatest regard.
debted, and for
We
have the greatest reason
for this
acknowledgment,
for
he has given the most extraordinary proofs of his concern

for
our happiness.
and thought
it
Though he was
" in the form of God,
not robbery to be equal with God," yet, to
procure our salvation,
"he humbled
himself, and
became
19
As
obedient unto death, even the death of the cross."
there
never was sorrow like unto his sorrow, so there never was
Love demands love the love of

Redeemer demands the love of the redeemed.
Hath Christ loved us and given himself to die for us ?
And do we really love him ? We shall then be desirous of
love like unto his love.
the
doing every thing necessary
to
prove the reality of our love,
and the high sense we entertain of the unexampled greatness
Himself has
of his.
requires us to
the
do
Supper
commandments
these
commemorate
he
this, is, that
is
to
our obligations
It
in honor of him,
and
to
not only the author, but the object of
refers immediately to him,
this institution.
com-
one which
is
his death in the ordinance of
and what adds very much
my
" If ye love me, keep
said,
Among
mandments."
is
was appointed
consecrated to his memory.
This
being the case, every friend of Christ must heartily approve

of it, and strive
to
promote
its
observance.
Consider the character of this

tinguished ordinance of the Gospel
3.
ble
easy
to
be performed
institution.
It is
exceedingly
and greatly
to
a dis-
intelligi-
our advantage.
a distinguished ordinance of the Gospel. It is a

permanent duty of every Christian society, a visible mark
It is
of our being Christ's disciples.
Each communicant,
in
receiving the bread and wine, publicly avows Christ to be

his
Lord and Master, and
glories in that cross
" to the Jews a stumbling-block, and

ness."
The language
of his conduct
is,
disciple of Christ, I rejoice in being so,
"
which was
Greeks
to the
I
and
foolish-
own myself
am
make his Gospel the rule of my actions."

The celebration of the Lord's Supper being
resolved to
so consider-
able a part of the worship of Christians, and one in which
they declare themselves the disciples of Christ,

ordinary
is
it,
that
any should have
so
little
ordinance, as to live and die in the neglect of

not these
how
extra-
respect for this

it
Would
same persons esteem a church or community of
20
where the Lord's Supper was

Are they not, then, very imperfect
Christians very imperfect,
never administered
Christians, who, having constant opportunities of attending
upon
Gospel
this
persevere in neglecting it?
institution,
Surely, out of their
own mouth
will they be
condemned.
Another circumstance which renders the neglect of this

ordinance more criminal,
The
feast,
and
is
observed in
while eating
th's
being exceedingly intelligible.
is, its
Scriptures teach us, that
has the nature of a religious
it
memory
We
of Jesus Christ.
bread and drinking
are,
this cup, to think
of
him, as bearing the punishment of our sins in his body on

the cross, and shedding his blood for their remission.
Lord's Supper has

It is
tise
understood.
as easy for an ingenuous and devout mind
to
prac-
understand the nature and design of it.

outward action is merely partaking of bread and wine,
this duty,
The
memory
in
to Christ, is easily
What
which the
the Scriptures thus teach respecting the relation
as
to
of our best Friend.
Is the
command which
required this so hard, that any Christian should find difficulty

in
complying with
it ?
Shall
thing as that of setting apart

celebrate his death
by
we deny
some
this rite
heavy yoke of Jewish ceremonies

his disciples.
Christ so small a
time, that
He
to
we may
together
has not permitted the
come upon
In the place of these, the very
the
neck of
number
of
which would have made them grievous, our Lord has substituted but this
one institution of a ceremonial nature,
observed by us, after our admission into his church.
to
be
This,
outward action, is so inconsiderable, that

were it to return much oftener than it does in most societies,
we might well submit to it, out of thankfulness for being
It
delivered from the bondage of the former dispensation.
but the
has, indeed, an inward as well as an outward part
inward part consists of those exercises of devotion, which no
in respect to the
pious person will consider unreasonable, since they are pro-
ductive of the most rational delight.

This ordinance
is
greatly
our privilege as our duty

I
to
to eat
have already shown that
21
much
our advantage.
It is
and drink
Lord's table.
at the
as
and drinking
this eating
ex-
is
pressive of a great privilege enjoyed by the worthy com-
municant
namely, the friendship of God, together with
the benefits which flow from

certainly-
it.
Such
enhance our obligations both
Supper, and
to
walk worthy of
This ordinance
is
it
all
a privilege must
to receive the
Lord's
afterwards.
advantage
also of special
to
promote
a lively and devout remembrance of Christ, and by this
means
to
invigorate our holy affections and assist our prog-
That the remembrance of Christ by

him has naturally this effect, will not be
Their love to Christ must be very much in-
ress in all virtue.
who
those
love
questioned.
creased by the representation of his

their love be attended
and the increase of
by greater desires
obey
to
Another circumstance which recommends

is, its
his will.
this
ordinance
peculiar tendency to unite the hearts of Christians in
To have the same Master,

same Redeemer, the same sacred symbols by which to
brotherly kindness and charity.

the
declare their
common zeal for him, their common interest

common relations to each other, must be
him, and their
in
to
Christians a powerful incentive to dwell together in unity,
and
to
The
promote each other's welfare.
rewards the conscientious observance of
this
pleasure which
ordinance serves
also to strengthen our resolutions, animate our zeal,
render the practice of
all
other duties
more
delightful.
and
Par-
taking of the Lord's Supper having these advantages, the

obligation to do
motive
Let
this
it
must be answerable
for the greater the
any duty, the more inexcusable is its neglect.

excite both non-communicants and communicants to
to
reflect seriously
on the subject. Have
the prospect
should
non-communicant say if I partake worthily, of receiving so great advantages, and shall I not be persuaded to do
the
Since
VOL. III.
it 1
it is
my
happiness to partake of the memorials of
18

Christ's
body and blood
should
I am
the communicant say
my Lord and Master, to adorn
in my little sphere, to make the
resolved to walk so as to please

his doctrines,
and contribute,
world entertain higher thoughts of him and his disciples.
DEVOTIONAL EXERCISES,
WHILE RECEIVING THE LORD's SUPPER.
O my soul,
it
the happy, the wished-for time
is
arrived, but
Lay hold of the opportunity, make

when gone it may not be lost. Turn
will quickly be gone.
the utmost of
it,
that
away thy eyes from beholding vanity, and look unto

Be all attention and reverence let thy thoughts be
;
and elevated, every power engaged, and

present to wait on thy Lord at his table.
thou,
who
all
alone knowest the hearts of
Jesus.
united
thy affections
all
men, and
alone hast them in thy power, the almighty and omnipotent
my
God, help thou
wander
to spring
soul
The
me,
fix
my
mind, prone else
up
perfect thy
own work
speak peace
to
bid every vain and every tumultuous passion be
sacrifice is
in the
may have
same
to
ready
act, to
send
down
the sacred
fire,
my
still.
and help
honor the Father and the Son, that
fellowship with both.
" Behold,"
away
infirmities
cause every good seed which thy hand hath sown
my
soul, " the
the sin of the world !"
Lam.b of God which taketh

is he called a Laml,
Rightly
whose innocence was spotless, whose meekness and patience

were invincible ; and the Lamb of God, for his superior excellence and dignity, and his being chosen to this office by
" He was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and
the Father.
as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he opened not his
mouth."
Neither guile nor complaint was found in his
mouth,
much
less cursing
and
bitterness.
Dost thou pro-

fess thyself a follower of the
Learn then of him
be harmless and blameless,
to
lowly in heart, alike averse
ready
to suffer
for
our
it
body,
heavy
to the
but
evil,
grave
God
of
away sin ? By
He was wounded
take
the tree.
chastisement of our peace was upon
load,
which sunk the Son of God,
and, had
have sunk the wôrld
was
Lamb
own body on
in his
iniquities, the
him.
doing or deserving
to
title ?
meek and
it.
But how does the

bearing
Lamb,
23
and glory in the
in ruin
in his
not been removed, would
it
Worthy
is
the
Lamb
that
receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and
slain, to
strength, and honor, and glory,
Didst thou,
Jesus, with
and blessing.
whom the
most precious things,
and the most excellent beings among creatures, are not once
to be compared, didst thou give thy sacred self for me on the
cross,
and
I give, I
I
art thou
could wish
such as
to give thyself to
me
in the
supper
can give.
But
were more worthy of thy acceptance.
have,
unto the Lord,

I
ready
consecrate myself, without the least reserve, to thee.
give unto thee
to
whom
do thou
and
give
confess myself to
make me more
heartily, as
it
owe more than
like thyself, shed
loveliness upon me, sanctify me in

me to be more perfect in every divine atGrant, O
tainment, that I may be less unworthy of thee
my Saviour, that I may be able to offer thee the sacrifice of
more of thy beauty and
every
part, help
a broken and contrite heart, which thou wilt not despise.
My
blessed Saviour did not suffer in his body only.
No,
was the least part of his sufferings that was visible his
soul was sorrowful even unto death, and labored under such
an agony in the garden, that his sweat was as it were great
it
drops of blood falling to the ground

if
it
be possible,
let this
and he prayed, " Father,
up pass from me."
heard crymg out on the cross.
My
God,
my
Nay, he was
God, why hast
24
tliou
forsaken me
Strange language
Does God indeed forsake
his
own Son
God, forsake his innocent,
ful
Son of God
for the
the holy, the merci-
Son
his well-beloved
He
does for a time, so as to withhold the usual light of his countenance, and to leave
Was
him
in the
hands of his enemies.
there ever sorrow like that of
my
Saviour's
Can
any thing be imagined to exceed it ? Yes, O my soul, though

his sorrows were inconceivably great, his love was greater
for his love made him willing to pass through such a sea of
sorrows his love brought him to that dark hour, and supported him in it love to the rebellious sons of men, love to
;
O my
thee,
any
of
soul
Was
ever love like his love
evil like the evil of sin, the guilty, the
all his
equal
to
sufferings
thine,
if,
What
after
ingratitude,
Is there
cursed occasion
O my
soul,
can be
what thy Redeemer has done and
suffered for thee, thou wilt not be persuaded to break thy
league with his enemies, thy sins
Truly,
Lord,
am
thy servant
am
thine
by purchase, thine by covenant.

the relation, and acknowledge all the duties
tion, thine
it.
have sworn, and cannot repent, that
righteous statutes; and
now
by crea-
triumph in
resulting from
I
will
keep thy
joyfully repeat the solemn
Here I am Lord, what wilt thou have me to

me and mine as seemeth good in thy sight. It
is thine to command and dispose, mine to obey and submit.
Thou hast bought me with a price, even with the precious
I therefore present my whole self,
blood of thy own Son.
engagement.
do
Do
body and
with
soul, to thee, a living sacrifice,
sonable service, with a
with them.
full
my
rea-
to glorify
thee
which
purpose of heart
is
To.
85.
THE
WATCHMAKER AND
HIS FAMILY
pipi
'''HP.''''"'"
r was Saturday
night,
the clock had struck elev-
f^''
en
we took leave of our
friends,
steps
rjiw(J|
and directed our
homeward.
After
Jvnip
y passing through several
\Mm streets,
/
l'
vi
lent
low window.
There," said
I,
we
turned into a
''narrow lane
ors to increase his trifling pittance/^

III.
15*
all
was
si-
" perhaps some poor me-
chanic, already tired with the labor of the day,
VOL.
and dark, except one
still
endeav-

THE WATCHMAKER
my
" Let us stop and see," said
companion.
was
It
was an
old-fashioned structure,
the level of the ground
was considerably lower
not difficult, for the house

built
when
than
at present;
so that passengers easily
saw what was
passing within.
When we came
man
aged
window we saw a middle-
opposite the
at his work-table, finishing
of a timepiece
his tool slipped,
one of the movements
and the wôrk was spoiled
he repeated the attempt, and again he was unsuccessful

slight
away
countenance, but the cloud soon passed

his
hands and looked upwards, while
uttering a short and fervent prayer
trouble disappeared
minutes he looked
the
at the
hour, and seeing
it
it,
In a few
was now midto
began
a
to
and kneeling down prayed
afterwards, resuming
as if
expression of
Then, removing the lamp
work.
presently he closed
earnestly
his
seat,
he was
short time engaged in meditation, then taking

left
he clasped
moved
he resumed his work.
night, laid aside his
his lips
table in another part of the room, took a book and
read
and momentary expression of trouble appeared on his
for
up the lamp
the room.
" There goes one of your godly ones," said

panion, walking on
"
May
be so
"I am sure
he- is
my
com-
one of that sort."
but did you not observe his patience,
although he repeatedly failed in his work

the expression of his countenance
it
Did you mark
indicated trouble, but
not anger or vexation."

'
Yes,
that of
I
is
it
was a peculiar
workmen
in general
could not but observe
it
expression, very different from
when an
the
accident befalls them.
man seems
poor, but there
something very decent and even respectable about him
but what could be the reason

ing the movement ?"
why
he
left off
without finish-
AND
" Did not you see
day
the
day of
rest
HIS FAMILY.
was twelve
it
o'clock
The Lord's
from wordly care and employments,
has begun."
" Well, this
to
being righteous overmuch
is
church as usual, surely
it
worked half an hour longer

not
man
the
if
he went
could be no matter whether he
what he was about or
to finish
This
has to support his family.
is
one of the
mistakes about religion."

" I differ from you
cannot blame the utmost strictness
in endeavoring to do the will of God.
righteous
overmuch while doing
" But what
harm would
have been
it
had worked an hour or two longer

reason for being so late
Surely, no
at his
man can
as the Bible directs
work
man
poor
if this
He must
be
him."
have some
perhaps his wife or
children are ill."

"
He
thinks that he ought to obey the
before any thing else
and he
commands
God
sure that
is
of
God
will not
allow him to suffer for obeying his will."

''
Then you suppose
some miracle
that he
help him
to
he will not be paid
finished,
not understand a
workman
for
same
will
become of him ?"
"
My
friend,
and
let
that
together for good to those
" All this
may
something more of
this
who
man.
your house
is
not
should
master
is
of
work to-morrow,
world belongs
all
to
God
work
things to
love him."
be very true, but

this
part, I
if his
the
he causes
in the afternoon."
should like
think
to-morrow morning, and see what he

at
and
want
every thing in
us remember,
work
will
work
leaving a piece of work unfin-
opinion, and should
what
God
my
For
it.
ished for any such fanatical notions

the
expects
for surely, if his
is
will
come
about.
to
know
way
this
I shall call
THE WATCHMAKER
SABBATH MORNING.
" Well," said
" Yes, and

is
I
I,
"
my
friend,
have you been looking
our poor watchmaker
after
know what
do not
make
to
of him
there
something extraordinary in every thing he says and does
never saw one like him before."
Why, what has happened ?"

we parted last night I thought a good deal about
what we had seen. I rose early this morning, and was
"
" After
again
house by six o'clock.
at the
the dwelling
when
Now, thought
taken
I, I
he was
had hardly entered
heard the poor watchmaker singing.
have found you
at
work
but
was mis-
with his children around him
sitting
Bible lay open on the table, and they were singing the 103d
Psalm.
Next him
sat a
young
girl
Between
rested on his shoulder.
about fourteen, her

his
some years
three or four years old, while another brother,

older,
They sang
completed the group.
manner, and
ing with them

hearts,
and
" That
is
arm
knees stood a child
most pleasing
in a
heard another voice from the next room join;
what they sang evidently came from
must confess
it
not surprising
went
to
their
mine."
but proceed."
" After they had sung, they knelt down and prayed.
was
here
it
is
wrote
it
down, and will read
thee with our whole hearts, and
us to pray aright.
We
may
unhappy
cv.n day=
Enable us
to serve
we
call
'
O,
upon
knowledge or
but now,
love thee, and delight to serve thee.
and bless us; especially, be with us
you.
thy Holy Spirit teach
lived without the
love of thee, and were always
to
it
thou blessed Saviour, the friend of sinners,
we
particularly struck with the prayer of the daughter
this
thee with
Lord,
Oh
be with us
day
it
all
is
thine
our hearts

AND
may we
stand
thee
her
be attentive
O Lord, be with
yes,
spared
"
is
'
who
our dear mother
away her
thou canst take
Lord, thy will be done

to us,
Now
the milk
may we
and
'
we
But thy
may
under-
to
know
entreat thee for
be thy will
it
will be
done
')
our dear father be
Amen.^
be good children.
all
to
teaches us
sickness, if
room added,
(a voice from the next
thy word, and enable us
to
Bless our dear minister,
it.
HIS FAMILY,
Jenny, where
for breakfast,'
said the father.
was presently covered with four
The
table
cups, half a loaf, and a jug of milk
'
they took their places,
and the father asked a blessing."
"
You have drawn an
"
Compare
this
interesting picture indeed," said
humble meal with the sumptuous
of the world, and say in which of them
God
poor artisan entreats
humble
to bless his
repasts
true happiness.
and sensual
man
down
sits
irre-
crowded board
to his
without even thinking of the Almighty,
and
fare,
and without repining; while the
eats with pleasure

ligious
is
who
gives
him
all
things richly to enjoy."
"
The
clock struck eight
repeat your chapter
'
My
children,
catechism to-day
are
wrong
grieved
in
sat
it
'
Yes,
'I will look over
down by
learned
it
again this morning.'
once more,'
it
window.
the
hope you will be perfect in your
do not
let
your answers
remember he
Jenny, are you ready to
said the father.
Clement, are you ready
answered the boy, and

"
and have looked over
last night,
*
me have
;
the pain to hear
your teacher
you
will also be
at
you once you were more ready

reading any thing than your Bible ; don't let him have
to
say
this again.
told
Set a good example
let
who have been taught to know

behind those who are ignorant of the truth.
the children
is best, to
it
not be said,
the Saviour are
Jenny, which
love the Saviour or to love the world
THE WATCHMAKER
Q
" Ah,
'
than
"
in
my clear father, would
that
loved the Lord more
I do.'
'
Be
of good cheer,
you a good work
my
who has begun
dear child, he
will complete
it
he
Go and
support and strengthen you.
is faithful,
he will
you can help
see if
your mother.'
KEEP HOLY THE SABBATH-DAY.

" At
this
moment
man came up
the stairs
he was
well dressed, but his countenance looked harsh and forbid-
He
ding.
appeared quite out of humor, and throwing open
the door, exclaimed, in an angry tone,
obliged to look after

the
work
gave you
you
?
way
in this
I 77iust
have
" Frightened at his voice
and hid themselves
'
Pooh
"
'
in
am
morning.'
this
it
Jenny stood by
offered a chair to his master.
very sorry, but
to finish the timepiece.
always be
and manner, the boys ran
none of your ceremonies, where
Sir, I
Must
have not you finished
the next room.
The watchmaker
the door.
'
worked
your work
is
have not been able quite

midnight, but
till
met
with some accidents.'
" * Yes,
that
is
always the
way
with you,
clumsy, and some paltry excuse or other

in
He
what
'
opened the case in
Well, very well indeed
good fellow,
to
it
which the timepiece was
examined the
placed, and taking out a magnifying glass,
work.
always
state is
so far good
your bench directly
you
Come,
will finish
my
it
in
two or three hours, and then your money will be ready.'

"
'
You
forget, sir,' said the
watchmaker,
in
a calm but
'
firm tone, ' that this is the Sabbath, and I cannot

" ' Pooh ! none of your nonsense
you are one of the
;
saints,
are
you
wish the whole pack of them
at the
AND
What harm can
bottom of the sea.
hour or two
There
two long sermons
HIS FAMILY.
there be in working an
will be plenty of time afterwards for
God never can wish you
besides,
<j
should
starve.'
"
Sir, I will
'
engage that the timepiece
house as early as you please to-morrow
by one o'clock
You
in the morning.
fore noon, so there will be time
will set about
cannot send
enough
to
your
shall be at
examine
it
it
off be-
that
it is
properly finished.'
" I did not ask for your opinion, but
desired you would
'
set about
it
The
"
tone,
'
"
directly
Sir, I
fool
clever hand, and
my
work
to
do so or not
shut his box, saying, in a humble
cannot work to-day.'
What
'
do you intend
workman
poor
your
it is
you are
am
had intended
to
sorry, for
help you.
Have you any
fault.
you are a
If
you
lose
thing else to do
" 'No, I have not any work besides this.'

" Well, then, take my advice, lay aside
these nonsen'
sical scruples
my
"
'
Mine,
"
'
As much
am.
religion allows
If
to attend to
my
busi-
does not.'
sir,
work
as to say,
is to
you are a great deal wiser than I

it must be done ; besides, the
be done,
Bible says that the Sabbath
Sabbath
for the
me
Sunday morning.'
ness on
'"No
doubt
the
Lord with
ure
to
day
all
was made
what do you say

it
is
true
his heart.
for
to that
man was
but
It is
man, and not man
V
created to serve
a privilege and a pleas-
keep the Sabbath, and worship the Lord on his own

would be misery indeed to profane it, and surely
his blessing would not be with my labor.'
"
I accursed ?
Are we all pagans and infidels
because we do not go to your house of prayer,' as you
it
'
Am
'
call
it
Depend upon
it,
this hypocritical
nonsense will get
THE WATCHMAKER
you
We
trouble.
into
must really see and do something
make such
with the people that
a disturbance, and are so
troublesome.'
"
'
day holy
mean
surely you cannot
Sir,
making a disturbance
is
that keeping the Lord's
please to remember,
there are laws which expressly forbid
worldly callings on this day.'

" I did not come here to be taught
'
the work, or
all, finish
must take
it
us to follow our
my
duty
once
for
away.'
"
The Lord will provide, and may he forgive you for

away work from a man with a large family and a
sick wife, when there really is no reason for so doing.'
" I do not take it away you refuse to finish it. When
you are come to your senses, perhaps I may find you work
'
taking
'
again.'
man
" This hard-hearted
maker
then
raised his eyes towards
came away
not a
left
the
room
heaven and
the watch-
sat
down.
grieved and struck with what
little
saw
and heard."
"
do not wonder
hard-hearted
Thus
at it," said I
it
is that,
" this master
indeed
is
though there are some who
conscientiously regard the Sabbath, the general profanation
of this day has become a disgrace to our country, and a

national sin
alas
bad example
this
day
is
we
great,
see
and
it
in
in their usual labors,
employers
or perhaps they
other sort of
manner
in
work
every rank.
believe
workmen
The
of
effect
often
employ
though not required by their
occupy themselves
in
some
not to mention the idle and lounging
which thousands pass the day, and by which
it
much profaned as by the hardest labor.

persons who themselves would on no account
is in reality as
Again,
fear
break the Sabbath, often thoughtlessly compel others

so
they go perhaps
at the latter
to
do
end of the week, and order
AND
articles to be
HIS FAMILY.
ready by Monday or Tuesday, without
reflect-
ing that their orders cannot be completed unless the poor
workman
labors hard the whole of the Sabbath
who causes
cases, surely, the person
day
is
equally guilty with the laborer.
tresses of families
to join
in
such
the profanation of the
have known mis-
who would be shocked
if
you asked them
a party of pleasure, or to direct their servants to do
some unnecessary work on

their dress-maker
such
that day, without hesitation give
strict
some
orders to complete
article
of apparel by a particular time, as would compel them to
work on
"
the Lord's day.
The Son
man
of
is
Lord of the Sabbath, and
his
people are freed from the slavish observance of the Sabbath
according
is
his
to the rites
day;
it
of the Jews in times of old, but
opportunities of worshipping
cerns of our souls
him and attending
so that those
who
to the con-
needlessly employ
otherwise themselves, or cause others to do
break his holy word, and act contrary

it
still it
the Lord's day, set apart peculiarly for
is
so,
it
assuredly
to his will
and
let
ever be remembered, that Sabbath- breaking almost inva-
riably stands the
which lead men
first
to
in the
dark catalogue of those crimes
This should particularly
punishment.
be inculcated on the minds of children.
watchmaker, your account makes

about him
intend to call upon
you go with me, and we
me
him
will see if
As
anxious
this
for this
to
evening
we can
poor
know more
;
suppose
help the poor
man."
SABBATH EVENING.
Blessed'is the house
Lord.
where those who bear rule seek the
There can be no
real peace or comfort in a family
unless the parents love the Saviour
with them and their household.

VOL. ITT.
19
"
then his peace will be
The
curse of the Lord
is
THE WATCHMAKER
10
house of the wicked, but he blesseth the habitation of
in the
the just."
Prov. 3
33.
This was instanced
we knocked
o'clock
and asked, "
Who
in
At
our poor watchmaker.

door of his room
at the
eight
Jenny came
there ?"
is
"Friends of your father."
She called him
said, "
he came, and
Gentlemen,
do
not recollect you, but if you please, walk in."
"
" and
am
a servant of Christ," said
I trust it is
" If this
upon
his
you
the case, perhaps
is
offering
I,
my
hand,
work we are come."

will
join our
little
We
circle;" so saying, he led us into the inner room.
found his wife
sitting
up
in bed, the
youngest child lay in a
cradle, and the other two children stood
two or three friends
sat at the other
by the bedside
end of the room, where
a Bible lay open upon the table.

" These are our friends, and also friends of our Saviour," said the
watchmaker
to
us
" they call here some-
times on the Lord's day evening, to talk over those things
which concern our
souls.
explain to the children
Luke 11:5.
" Do not let
the
was
now endeavoring
just
to
parable of the two friends."
us interrupt you."
THE PARABLE.
The
father then proceeded to explain the love of
his children,
and
to
show
God
heard and answered when they prayed earnestly with

cerity and truth.
at
for
to
that they might be sure of being
" Observe," said he,
" this friend
sin-
came
midnight, an unseasonable hour, but he did not hesitate,

it
was a
couraged
at
friend to
whom
he applied.
being refused, for he
knew
He was
not dis-
that his friend could
AND HIS FAMILY.

give him what he desired
knew
he
jj
his kind disposition, his
readiness to oblige, and he trusted in his friend's affection
he
was not mistaken he obtained all that he

Now, my dear children, is not our God a better
friend than any we can have in this world ? is there any one
of our friends, even the best we have, who would lay down
his life for us ?
Would any one offer to bear the wrath of
God for us ? Yet our Saviour bore this when he was nailed
him
for
asked
for.
Again, can there be a friend richer or more
to the cross.
powerful than he
his love
And
only thus able
Think
is ?
riches of this world
do not
to
us forget, that our Friend
let
ing that what

prayers, he
is
say
is
to
true
Remember what he
dear children, look
always open
to
hearken unto us and
to
My
Saviour, he has said that he will
directly, but
that
our
to bless
has done for us in times past.
to the
who ask him

to
you are
to
me
you may be
apply
perhaps
to
your
do not
not afraid to ask again,
plead thus with your heav-
enly Father, he will hear and answer you
him
times
to hear,
his ears are
your desires are attended
entreat
from those
know-
say
heavenly Father as you would
you
we
to do.
my children,
give his Holy Spirit to those
attend to
not
this,
him
always ready
always ready
is
is
all
ready and willing so
also
is
He
really seek him.
and seasons are alike
till
what are the
will withhold nothing that is for their good,
who
us.
with the treasures of
give exceeding abundantly above
can ask or think, but he
He
moment
for a
when compared
led to seek
earnestly do
him early." Prov.
8: 17.
who was their

among other things,
respectable female, one of the party,
aunt, added a few words of good advice
she told the children always to pray at night before they got
into bed, for
would be
when they
tired,
put
it
till
they laid down, they
offer
up a few vague and
off
and would only
THE WATCHMAKER
12
my
sleepy words.
" This,
not praying."
The two
dear children," said she, "
and having kissed their mother, retired
father,
is
children thanked their aunt and

to their little
beds.
They
"
day they
who
are not aware of their privileges," said
will
" one
may
he bless your endeavors
said the mother.
dear Jenny
Lord; then
may
early
"It
my
is
know what
earnest prayer
seek the
is to
it
can leave her without anxiety."
"
The blessing of the Lord," said I, " is with you

make your strength equal to your day."
will
" Yes," said the watchmaker, " the
herd
to
them."
"Amen!"
my
the advantage of having had parents
loved the Saviour:
instruct
that
know
Lord
is
he
our shep-
he crowneth us with loving kindness and tender mer-
cies."
"
My
good friend," said
sentiments
" Sir,
to
know
What
will tell
I,
" have you long held these
you
first
led
you
as briefly as
way
to this
I
of thinking ?"
can, since
you wish
the particulars."
HISTORY OF THE WATCHMAKER.

"
was brought up
to the
watch-making business
first
errand-boy, then apprentice, afterwards a journeyman, in a

considerable manufactory.
structed in the
poor,
business
tained what
I
was
ligious
trifle.
;
My
to find
laughed
was scarcely
my
a place for
me
my memory
had learned,
like the generality of

;
master taught
and although
little
But, alas,
principles of religion
and they were glad
could earn a
my
first
it
me
as soon as
was good, and
was very
though
nothing except
little
re-
indeed.
mechanics, disorderly and
at the Bible,
in-
parents were
irre-
had hardly ever
AND
looked in
it ;
HIS FAMILY.
jg
while the blasphemies of Paine and Voltaire,
and other works of a licentious and impure description,
my
were
delight.
was a
good deal of money, but

received
word,
it:
was
skilful
workman, and earned a
squandered
just that thoughtless,
away
all
my
was
the public-house
as fast as
daily resort;
in a
wicked being, which most
of our artisans are, careless of the morrow, and indifferent

as to the concerns of
my
soul.
" This was the wretched course in which
my
married
dear wife
when
lived
she was then ignorant of the
Saviour, but she had been regularly brought up and in-
by her parents
structed
at
my
of course she was
reform.
and a thousand times determined
But,
sir,
who can change

when he sets about
own
his
it
to lead a
own
in his
new
life.
strength
me
My
father, but
was always unhappy and
home
returned
it
was only
to
cared not for wife
discontented, and
when
my patient
com-
wreak upon
panion those tempers which were the consequence of
own
ill
old
in their
folly.
was a husband and a
or child
to
could not extricate myself, but plunged again and
again into sin and

"
me
heart or reform his con-
habits and companions all conspired to retain
bands
grieved
could not but acknowledge the truth of what she
said,
duct,
much
conduct, and often mildly and earnestly urged
conduct.
Oh,
sir,
are you at
the families of our mechanics
If so,
my
acquainted with
all
need not attempt
to
describe the discord, the misery, and wretchedness which

so often troubles them, or to paint the consequences
which
ensue.
"
Thus passed
ten miserable years.
husband, an irreligious father.
once
my
tells
God,
VOL.
you our wretchedness.
to the
III.
wicked.'
'
Isaiah 57
19=^
was an unkind
This brief description
There
:
21.
is
at
no peace, saith
Infidels
may
say
THE WATCHMAKER
14
what they
please, but I speak from bitter experience
the love of the Saviour abideth not, there
and
hatred, malice,
uncharitableness
all
my
Oh, that
upon earth.
hell
years of pain and suffering
in a word,
is
it
dear wife could forget those
remembrance of them
the
where
wrath, envy,
is
burden which would overwhelm me, did not
is
remember
that the loving kindness
and tender mercy of the Saviour
greater than our sins.
Oh,"
is
by the
said he, taking his wife
hand, " have you, can you forget these things ?"
My
"
" can your
woman,
dear," replied this excellent
remember what our heavenly Father has declared
wife
that
he has forgotten ?"

"
What
that she
do
owe
not
me
" About three years ago,
her
she appeared more
her about this
her some day.
more
so than ever.
anxious about religion,
this
my
sins
my
to
when
me from
I
in
found
spoke
go with
to
my
at
ease
when
visited with a
excesses.
Death
my
recollec-
into
soul.
she heard this request.
entreated
Never
From
my
shall I
that
talking with me.
mo-
She
the Bible, and often conversed about serious
was very desirous
time and opportunity

rect conduct
me
was
a horrible dread overwhelmed me.
ment she seemed more

read
and
and obedient, was now
time
crowded
wife and her friends to pray for
things.
wife had
more frequently.
affectionate,
About
in the face
forget her joy
my
there was evidently a change
severe illness, the consequence of
tion
all,
strove to find fault with her, but her con-
always kind, and
me
it is, sir,
soul.
she answered by asking
duct,
stared
my
observed that
that she attended public worship

to
Thus
her example, and above
her prayers, have indeed been blessed to
some new acquaintance
"
you," said he.
to
always supports
to
in future
do
to recover, that I
away my
and
past sins
thought that
might have
by more
if I did
do
corso, I
AND
should be sure
go
to
to
HIS FAMILY.
Oh, how
heaven.
knowledge of the Gospel
the
jg
my
but
was
far
heart
from
was yet
too
hard, and (vile as I was) too full of self-righteousness to
submit
to a
As
"
Saviour, and desire pardon through him.
grew
stronger, the natural enmity of
was again manifested.
against religion
away
drive
my
to
my
heart
endeavored
to
now became more averse to

and one day, when she asked me
these thoughts, and
wife's proceedings
accompany her
to
public worship,
of passion, and declared that
on the subject
if
broke out into a
would throw her books
may
poor wife, as you
fit
she ever said another word
My
into the fire.
much
suppose, was
only comfort was, that her daughter began
to
grieved
her
seek the know-
ledge of the Saviour.
Some months
"
afterward, one of
His end was dreadful, and
died.
and often thought upon
when
fields,
my
One day
my
companions
'
To my
My
friend, this little
surprise
found
it
in sin
was struck with

was walking
a person passed me, and put a
hand, saying,
attention.'"
it.
little
book
is
this,
in the
Tract
into
worth your
contained a short and
earnest address upon death and judgment:

the danger of
whereby
reader
of his
to
my
state,
it showed me
and pointed out the only remedy
could escape, and earnestly called upon the
seek this remedy, and
sins.
I still
endeavored
fly to Christ for the
to drive
away
pardon
these thoughts,
but could not.

" One evening, as I wandered abroad, I heard
a person
who was walking before me call to another, and pointing to
some people who were entering a place of worship, he exclaimed,
There, Tom, are the godly ones
Have you a
mind to go and be made a saint?' These words (I knew
'
not
why)
down
excited
my curiosity
entered the place, and sat
the service had already begun, and the minister
was
THE WATCHMAKER
IQ
shall I forget the im-
Never
in his prayer before sermon.
me
they pierced my heart
pression his
words made upon
and soul
could think of nothing but
and the wrath of

"
did not
God which
my
tell
my
wife and daughter
me
chosen for his
text,
away
'
The
sin of the
world.'
state of
and
me.
for
felt
that
my
respecting
me, and
am.'
found
you
him
was
over.
'
cast
for I
my own
I
'
now
The
29.
picture
and ruined by
if
likeness,
sin,
intended
and from
now was
filled
it
with anxiety
me
see
you are
afraid of me, and
what a monster of iniquity
Oh, do not
me my
console
to
seek the Lord, and he will be
your burthen upon him, and he

soul.
when
in silence
afraid to speak to
see
O, do not despair
will sustain you.
Yes, Jesus himself
hesitate, but cast
now
invites
yourself upon him
mercy and forgiveness.'

Need I add any further particulars ?
has been pleased
show
us near
Holy
for
lost
with
is
"
to
saw
who preached had
saw they were
said to them,
can heal your

:
entered
of God, that taketh
At these words they endeavored
wife said,
mind,
soul.
do not wonder,
He
John
wife and daughter followed
the service
my
following,
could not obtain salvation unless
were given me from above.
My
Lamb
man,
could not but see
moment
"
with enmity against God, seemed as
filled
that
As
minister
Behold the
which he drew of the
the
state,
countenances declared their
their
there.
in
Wednesday
there would be service again.
joy at seeing
wretched
was passing
wife what
but waited with impatience for the
when
my
so justly deserved.
me what
to
God.
to
lead
me
to the
Spirit
knowledge of Christ, and
the Saviour has done and suffered to bring
This now appears clear
Spirit alone could teach
me, the just
The Holy
for the
me
unjust.
to
me
but the
that Christ has suffered
1 Peter,
18.
That he
AND
HIS FAMILY.
own body on
has borne our sins in his

the chastisement of
my
thus led
he gave himself
to feel that
my
then
him
nailed
myself
"
iniquity
to the cross,
and
and
to
whom
our
my
in
my
him who died
thanks be
sir,
We
4,
had
for
me.
to the
Lord who
My
from the world.
have not been without
who seek
that those
Lord must expect
the paths of the
me
that they
that
was
dear wife, a faithful guide and counsellor,
you know,
Gal.
sins,
felt
experience since that time
could always resort.
trials
our
for
me
and
When
earnestly desired to dedicate
truly say that
the tree
upon him.
to live to
has been one of peace and joy
gave me,
is
hateful to
to his service,
may
became
sins
17
to
walk
in
meet with opposition
to
former connections have endeavored
much as they could they accuse me of

hypocrisy, and utter many falsities about me.
Often have
I been tempted to say, wherewithal shall we be clothed and
to trouble
fed
But
self for
have always had reason
my
as
unbelief; and the
me
rienced prove to
whom
Lord
to
shame
take
mercies
to
my-
have expe-
will not forsake those
he calls his own."
" No," said

his people
sure.
that the
many
I,
he
" he will not leave you
is faithful,
and
his
he cannot forget
word of promise standeth
Christ has given himself for you, and possessing
you have received

heirs with Christ."
all
things
Rom.
being heirs of
God and
him
joint-
17.
REFLECTIONS.
" Well," said
" this passes
is
one of those
hypocrites,
Would
to
my
all that
friend,
when we were
in the street,
could have supposed.
men who
This, then,
are called enthusiasts, knaves,
and are even accused of licentious conduct.
God
that
we were
all like this
man !"
THE WATCHMAKER
19
"
You now
see," said
I,
" the mistaken notion the world
you now are aware how
entertains of these people, and

falsely they are accused
is
because the carnal mind
this is
The world
enmity against God.
them as
hates
hates
it
Lord and Master."
their
"
am
most surprised," said
remarkable
my
friend, " to observe the
of these doctrines.
fruits
man's conduct without
disguise,
and
the excellency of what he professes
him
practise
have seen
this
cannot but judge of
by what
have been mistaken indeed
have seen
in
my
ideas
about these people."
"
trust
God has caused you
ber that
it
is
mere matter of
not a
importance
infinite
to see
May
depends thereon.
as
God.
you have been

But he
is
he showed
off:
me
enabled
curiosity, but one of
Oh,
believing.
while he
may
to salvation.
once
the exceeding riches of his love, and
may
this
be found
to
him with joy and peace
be your case
call
you have seen and heard

will call again
to-day.
in
Seek the Lord
upon him while he
lay hold upon the hope set before you.
morning we
to that
now an enemy to the people of

mercy he sought me while afar
till
draw near
to
inquire
and remem-
he direct you, and lead you
rich in
me
Spirit,
your everlasting happiness or misery
knowledge which alone can make wise
was
your error
seek direction from the Holy
for yourself,
is
near
Forget not what
Adieu
To-morrow
upon our poor watchmaker."
BETTER DAYS.
" See
the
first
how they
Christians.
love one another."
This was said of
That divine love which cometh from
above will ever shine with brightness in the children of God.

It is
the sure
mark and
seal
whereby they are known among
AND
men
happy
is
the
man who
was exemplified
It
family
there
their proceedings
saw
was
all
J9
this
it is
poor watchmaker and his
in the
and union, regulating
love, peace,
and influencing each individual.
parents to children, nor did
The
influence of his
When we
God enlivened
love of
Holy
Spirit
attention
all
never
from
ever see equal respect, sub-
from children
mission, ready obedience, and docility,

parents.
the bond of union.
any family such patience and kind
in
upon them.
has tasted of the Saviour's love
where
the family
is
FAMLY.
God has impressed
the Spirit of
Blessed
HIS
produced these
to
and the
their hearts,
effects.
we found the watchmaker

engaged in instructing a young man in one of the more
on inquiry we found he
difficult operations of his business
entered his room,
the son of a pious friend lately deceased,
was a poor orphan,
who had literally left his child to the care of Providence

and He who careth for the fatherless had inclined the heart
of this poor man to take the lad, and to share his scanty
pittance with him, feeding his soul at the
the bread of
life
for those
render them unable
whose
to assist others, often
charity which should put
many
same time with
situation
would seem
engage
to
in acts of
a more wealthy professor to
the blush.
After a short conversation, "
you
are
off for
work
My
friend," said
I,
"
how
could you finish some watches for
me?"
My
eyes
sent
inquiry struck him with surprise
tears stood in his
God
has
your employer had
dis-
he clasped his hands and exclaimed, "
you
" So
to
I
us
am
understood
quite out of
;
was
Sir,
work."
told
missed you because you would not work on the Sabbath."

" 'Tis too true
once did the same
alas
to
sir,
he knows no better
a polisher.
myself
God would have us
all
THE WATCHMAKER AND HIS FAMILY.
20
kindly compassionate one
our hearts
I trust I
He
to another.
alone can incline
keep his law."
Worthy man,"
"
"
to
my
said
have received good
companion, seizing his hand,

to
my
soul from
what
have
heard and seen of you."

" How can this be ?"
He was,"
'-
now he
said
I,
" wise and righteous in his
begins to see his
and perceives the
iour,
own
state,
own eyes
and his need of a Sav-
false notions
he entertained of the
people of God."
May
"
God, of his
and bring
forth
infinite
mercy, bless you," said the
"
may the seed take deep root downward,

much fruit upward his ways are ways of
poor watchmaker
pleasantness, and all his paths are peace."
It is
now
time
set forth in this
mine,
unto
my
all
in truth.
to finish
dear reader.
them
He
my narrative,
and
may
the truths
Tract be impressed upon your heart and
that call
Remember
upon him,
that " the
Lord
to all that call
will fulfil the desire of
them
is
upon him
that fear
he also will hear their cry, and will save them."
nigh
him
No. 86.
AM
SELF-DECEIVED?
Could
appear
more
at the
ily
search
off.
The
startling question be
me
Every
through.
truth will
come
asked
am
correct
Am
me
" for a pretence,
am
disguise will then be torn
" heart
I
is
know
pious.
It is
I am.
and
pious,
apostles all
am
men
seem
Simon Magus won
me a
VOL.
of a very
my neighhors
Am
do not
"If but two men are saved, one
Nor
to
me
to
does the good opinion of
be a genuine Christian.
have had a high opinion of Judas.
Peter's confidence.
Paul
at
one time
may
be a hypocrite while others
am
not a hypocrite, because I
saint.
in the habit of
regarding myself as one.
inclined to think well of myself.
III.
is
Yet the people commonly thought
prove
not certain that
have not been
am much
heart
be so with me.
not one, that
said,
thought well of Demas.
It is
judgment
My
There never were greater hypocrites on
pious and eminent
think
their
and desperately wicked."
may
It
of them will be a Pharisee."
The
is
knew
will honestly inquire.
earth than the Pharisees.
them very
of the hypocrisy in the world
no proof that
say that
full
much
a hypocrite
me
of that gross kind of hypocrisy which,
subtle and insidious nature.

I
But
O, that
deceitful above all things,
that
to
shall then have.
makes long prayers," at the very time I

may rob widows and orphans. Yet my
how
thinking
am
a hypocrite
does not accuse
will speed-
Perhaps, in the judgment of
a professor of religion.
charitable friends,
must soon
Eternity will be
out.
of bliss or woe, according to the character
my
Omniscient purity
judgment-bar.
20
It
would require
AM
SELF-DECEIVED
more than common candor
Many
crime.
to indict one's self for so
high a
of the vilest hypocrites have abounded in
self-confidence and self-esteem.
charge of hypocrisy
Job was grieved
at
the
but he did not show half the temper
when
that the Pharisees did
same charge was brought
the
Perhaps no persons have a better opinion of
against them.
themselves than the grossest hypocrites.
Nor
certain that
is it
am
not a hypocrite, because
my
hisioYj corresponds in some things with the experience of sovie
eminent professors.
First of
are hypocrites, and
same experience with them.
the
is
some eminent professors
all,
requires no grace for
it
merely
Again,
it
me to attain
may be that
to
it-
unessential incidents and circumstances, and
in
not in the very essence of piety, that
my
experience agrees
with that of others.
One MARK OF A HYPOCRITE

and prudent, and knowing
"
all
things."
He has
He is
He
is
be wise,
is
not so
Spirit of Christ does not rest
The
hypocrite
may discourse
blind,
may
which teacheth him
not " of quick understanding in the
quently, on religious truths
ment.
that while he
not the anointing
fear of the Lord."

lectual attainments
is,
worldly matters, he
The
in the things of religion.
upon him.
in
may
be of high
fluently,
intel-
and even
elo-
yet he has no spiritual discern-
and cannot see afar
Jesus Christ
off*.
says that this spiritual blindness and ignorance rested on the

hypocrites of his day.
Matt. 16
" evidence of things not seen "
O, that
reason.
If
An
may
not
fail
No
2, 3.
by the
hypocrite has
senses, or
by carnal
of heaven at last
do not love secret prayer,
must be a hypocrite.
man may pray, when terrified, or sick, or

when his conscience is somewhat quickened,
unregenerate
afflicted,
or
but he has no love for prayer even then.

perity drives
crite's
" cry,
him from
when
his closet.
Returning pros-
Will God hear the hypo-
trouble cometh
upon him
Will he
AM
delight himself in the
God ?"
Job 27
understand
to
God
delight in
prayer
This
Be
well.
it
Dost thou love
Almighty
10.
9,
SELF-DECEIVED
Will he always
is
an awful subject.
my
O,
honest.
Hast thou pleasure
to
commune
with him
upon
call
Seek
soul, dost thou
Almighty
in the
Dost thou love
Hypocrites are subject
threatens a land, or
when
to
strong fears and terrors in
When
times of Divine judgments.
war, famine, or pestilence
personal calamities gather thickly
around the spurious professor, he
often filled with dismay.
is
Seriously threaten to take from him property, liberty, char-
and he knows not what
acter, or life,
of speedy death
some
afraid
33
is
"The
judgments, says,
terrible
The
to do.
sinners in Zion are
fearfulness hath surprised the hypocrites."
rending.
blow, and beat upon the ill-founded house, and

the
is
fall
blasted at last
He
is
respect
faults,
my
Matt. 7
to
falls,
and
all
will
be
my
for greater faults,
How is my
1, 5.
judge,
eternal destiny
Am
practice in this
I shall
be judged.
my
soul, prac-
O,
a hypocrite
be prompt in promising, and tardy in performing,
a part of a hypocritical character.
ing
it
hopes be
and harsh censure of others
and condemns not himself
no deceit on thyself here.
To
soul, shall thy
With what judgment
Then, what
is
O,
it.
a hypocrite.
tise
of
that indulges in severe
minor
for
Chap.
The termination of their lives is sometimes heartThe rain descends, the floods come, and the winds
14.
great
prospect
Isaiah, having described
dismal to him.
do
all
he engages
to do, is
slow
in
good man, intendpassing his word.
But hypocrites "say, and do not." Matt. 23: 3. They

say, We go, Lord
but they go not.
They abound in
;
promises and professions of obedience and love

stop at that.
Is this
solemn vows, made
my
character
at the table
How am
of the Lord
but tliey
keeping ray
AM
4
Ostentation
Matt. 23
5.
Matt. 23
14.
SELF-DECEIVED
another feature of a hypocritical character.
is
So
is
a hiding of sin under specious pretences.
Punctilious scrupulosity about
and neglect of the substantial duties of
Those who
of a hypocrite.
How
stands
Hypocrites,
hate the living
29, 30.
matters,
mark
They gave
a tenth of
all
garden herbs, and yet they were cruel, unjust, and
faithless.
23
little
another
life, is
lived in Christ's day, strained
gnat and swallowed a camel.
at a
their
my character
who act just as the pious dead acted. Matt.

They commend good men, whose example
and reproofs reach them
example before
danger.
in these respects
every age, praise the pious dead, and
too, in
my
Is this
and
not,
their eyes
character
whose holy
rail at those
warns them of
their guilt
and
admire the intrepidity
of Nathan in calling his backslidden monarch to repentance.
Do
admire the
man
backslider, unto the
that cries in
Lord
Excess and overacting attach

ters.
Their prayers are too long
their moderation
is
they are cunning.
Am
a hypocrite
in
to all hypocritical
charac-
their zeal rises to fury
every thing.
All
How momentous
O thou
ears. Return,
When they would
indifference.
So
my
is
be wise,
overacted.
the
question
me
me and know my thoughts, and see if there
be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting;" leave me not to the surprise of coming wrath.
How immense
the interest at stake
Lord, " search
and know me, try
" For what

gained,
is
the hope of the hypocrite, though he hath
when God
taketh
away
his soul ?"
" receive the greater damnation."

not, I
will not rest until
" Lord, thou knowest
all
Hypocrites shall
Matt. 23
14.
have good reason
things
thou knowest
can-
for saying,
that
thee."
love
]o.
87.
CONVERSATION IN A BOAT,
BETWEEN TWO SEAMEN.
BY A CLERGYMAN OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND,
FORMERLY A LIEUTENANT IN THE ROYAL NAVY.
The
were as
No
action.
duty
I
Repulse was as noble a seventy-four, and the crew

ever swam salt water, or went into
fine fellows, as
ship could beat her, either at harbor or sea
no men were better dressed, or better behaved
think
may
officers.
While
say, no
men were
the forecastle could
better treated
by
and
their
show an unusual num-
ber of brave and able seamen, the quarter-deck furnished

its full
quota of brave and gentlemanly
officers,
who knew
and did their own duty, and were always ready to notice
and encourage those of the crew who did theirs, and to grant
them every indulgence and comfort which the service adThus the old saying was proved true on board
mitted of.
the Repulse,
VOL.
III.
Good
ojicers
make good men.

20*
CO.WERSATIOiX IN A BOAT.
Every body knew
the Repulse's boats, and boats' crews,
long before they reached the beach
When
smartest on the station.
they were the
for
away from
they were
the
saw them go oif with a drunkand whenever the captain or warden, noisy, dirty crew
room officers went on shore for a walk, the boats' crews
were almost always at liberty to takie a ramble by themselves, for they were sure to be back, and ready to return
on board with their officers at the appointed time.
There
was no running away on the part of the men, nor any
ship on duty, no person ever
;
swearino-, abusive, or threatening language on that of the

officers
no wonder, then, that others should call her "
Happy Repulse."
to
her; and
Many
man has
have often wished that every
The
wished he belonged
vessel, in the
navy was like her, both as to officers and crew in general.

There was, however, one thing on board the Repulse,
which, above
rights
sound
all others,
helped
and that one grand thing
to
to set
every thing else
however strange
some ears was Religion.

and ship's company were
the officers
don't
mean
religious
no
it
to
may
that all
;
many,
of both classes, neglected the care of their souls, although
one thing needful, even before and above all

But while many lived as though there were no
this is the
others.
God, there were others, and that a good number, who read
their Bible,
and who not only took delight
in seeing the
church rigged out on Sundays, but were much taken with

the kind and affectionate manner in which the chaplain endeavored to instruct them in the evenings between decks,
and
in his
own
cabin.
He
was, indeed, as kind
though he had been their brother

stance or opportunity pass,
out their duty to

the
way
to
God and
and as he
let
to
them
as
no circum-
without endeavoring to point
their country,
and
to
show them
be happy in this world and in that to come, the
reader will not be surprised

pulse's
to hear, that
crew knew more about
many
tliese things,
of the Re-
and acted more
CONVERSATION IN A BOAT.
and good men, than most in the British Navy.

But perhaps this will more fully appear, if I lay before him
like wise
the substance of a conversation
Harry Williams, cockswain of
which took place between

Green Cutter, and Tom
the
Brown, who pulled the stroke oar.

This ship was lying in the river Tagus, about a mile
above Belem Castle.
The day being very fine, the topgallant and royal yards across, the decks all to rights, and
the sails loosed to dry, a party of officers determined to
take the advantage of a flood tide and leading breeze, to
go up
Lisbon
to
The Green
amusement.
for a forenoon's
Cutter was therefore manned, which, dashing through every

thing in high style, in a short time landed them at the
The crew,
town.
and buy whatever
city,
wanted, but were

off at
as usual,
two o'clock,
on shore jumped
to
to
go
new
into the
they or their messmates
trifles
be again in the boat, and ready to go
to dinner.
all
had permission
This they promised
hands except
Tom
to do,
Brown, who
and
that
day was boat-keeper.

Harry, who did not immediately quit the place, thought
he saw a
dissatisfaction in
little
guessing that he wished
to
go
Tom's countenance and,

Tom, if
;
into the town, said, "
you are particularly desirous to take a run with the rest of

I will stay and keep the boat myself; but you
must not be gone above an hour."
" Thank you, Harry," replied Tom, " that is just the
thing I wanted this morning; you shall find me true to the
the crew,
time."
made
Thus
saying, with one spring he
all sail to
was on
shore, and
join his shipmates.
Harry, meanwhile, having struck the masts and spread

the awning, proceeded to push out the boat from the noise
and bustle
at the landing-place,
sternsheets
buying, and some selling
and lazy
and then he
sat
down
in the
and while some of the crowd on shore were
friars
while fishwives were scolding,

were begging; while many a seaman from
;
CONVERSATION
was indulging
the fleet
wine-shops, and
IN
A BOAT.
and drunkenness in the

of murmuring and discon-
in oaths
many were
full
Harry Williams, I
down in the sternsheets
board their respective ships;
tent on
say, while all this
was going
on, sat
of the Green Cutter, and taking his

locker, with
good-humor
little
in his countenance,
content in his heart, read with
much
his
head
in the
perceived
how
day of
Tom
Him whom
who came
indeed, could have found
occupied, he scarcely
was
not a
employment and
though Harry thought
for
jumped
He had
it
not
for
more than half
think
impose on
al-
that time, and,
thanked the cock-
him, and asked, whether he did
not intend to go into the city.

" No, Tom," replied the other, "
I
diver-
been absent his hour,
into the foresheets,
keeping her
there to-day, and
little
he was, he
but, thoughtless as
too honest a fellow to break his word, or
therefore, he
into
had often covered
hail the boat so soon.
the kindness of a friend.
swain
Thus
battle.
sion for half a dozen hours
was yet
Him who
the time passed away, and
surprised to hear
Tom,
of
and peace and
delight of
storms and winds obey, even of that Saviour

the world to save sinners
Bible from the
it's
far
have nothing
more pleasant
to
sitting
do
here
under the shade of this awning quietly reading, than to be

strolling about yonder filthy streets in the midst of noise,
and nonsense, and wickedness."
Tom. Well, now, I don't think
you are a
better scholar than
so.
To
be sure, Harry,
and what with your always
reading when you have a little spare time, and what with
your so often talking to the chaplain about the Bible, and I
don't know what, why, you must needs know more about
these things than myself; but still, Harry, I don't understand these religious ways.
to
think there are
be seen in the town, which please
ing the boat
and
at
any
rate,
me
many
things
better than keep-
would sooner be moving
about anywhere than sitting quietly here reading the Bible.
Harry. That I don't doubt, Tom, because it is as you

you don't understand these things you don't know
what religion is, or how it can make a man happier than
say,
and dancing, and noise and racket
fiddles
but the thing
is
you do not understand it. You know, Tom,

was once as madbrained and thoughtless a fellow as
true, although
that
ever sailed out of Shields harbor.
and noise and songs and
whether you
fiddles
me
will believe
have
can do
or not,
tried
what grog
and now, Tom,
can say from experi-
ence, that these things do not go half so far towards

a
man
find
This book
happy, as religion does.

be true, that " the
to
it
ways of wisdom
making
me, and
tells
are
ways of
pleasantness, and all her paths are peace."
As
Tom.
to believing
what you say, Harry,
would
take your word before any man's in the ship, except the
but after
chaplain's
like these
ways.
Harry.
am
the chaplain, and
all, I
don't understand, no, nor
Tom,
glad,
to find
you think
so well of
only wish you would attend more
advice and instructions
for
am
much
to his
sure he would be as ready
with you as with myself; and, as you can read a

you might soon understand as much about these mat-
to talk
little,
ters as
can
why
by,
him
you.
know
to that, I don't
but about the chaplain,
every body must think well of such a

he
for certain,
still,
tell
As
Tom.
Harry,
we
in
should
is
going right before the wind
think he
all
is
too strict
like to be
moored
yet,
is
but
suppose, by and
same harbor with
in the
Yes,
Tom, however men may now
turn their backs upon heaven, the day

will think
very differently of
that be to
many
many
as he
heaven
kingdom- come.
Harry.
For
man
to
fear
it.
slight,
and
coming, when they
Oh, what a sad hour will
when they come to die

now living, quite unand those things which God has
of our shipmates,
will die as they are
concerned about their souls,
is
Such men, Tom,
prepared for them that love him.
will see
and have a view of the glory and blessedness
that heaven,
which they slighted but they will not be able to enter into
You, Tom, would, by your own confession, like to go
with your chaplain by and by ; this, however, will not be
allowed you, unless you endeavor now to live and act as he
;
it.
does.
Why
Tom.
sermons, and
Harry.
now, Harry, you don't want
be always saying
to
Tom;
No,
for
my
me
to
preach
prayers, do you
though you are a good
?
foi'e-
you would do very badly at preaching sermons.

Nor do 1 want you to be always saying your
for there are times and seasons for
prayers, as you call it
all things.
If a squall were this night to part our cables ; or
if, on going out to sea, an enemy was to heave in sight, I
should be very sorry to find you stowed away, saying your
prayers, when your duty would call you to cut away the
castleman, yet
think
sheet anchor, or to clear for action
Tom. Well, then, what is it you mean ?

Harry. I mean that you should fear God,
honor and serve the king
you should
that
set
as well as
your heart
most on those things which are of the greatest value and

consequence.
wish you
most after that which
to strive
make you most happy.
will
All this seems reasonable
Tom.
Now
then, Harry,
me
tell
plainly
consequence and value, and what
and you
shall see
Harry.
nity,
TU
Well
and a future
set
said.
will
to
Now,
then,
our ways,
of
life,
is
us,
of the greatest
mark my word
state of happiness in
watch over
is
make me most happy;
about the work directly.
the greatest consequence and value
God
and right enough.
what
and
to
and the blessing of
in all
the ups and
downs
such a happiness, amidst
are a
man
Eter-
keep and preserve us

all
as the world can neither give nor take
Tom, you
heaven, are things of
of your word
away.
Now,
hope you will keep
your promise, and
set
about the work directly
that
is, I
hope you will really consider and learn more about these
matters from this day.
Tom.
No man
Harry, you have got
can say
No
promises.
word
but
Tom
windward of me here.
Brown's not the
man
from his
to fly
where you were likely to reach on

should have been more sparing with my
To be sure, the
but when I begin
promises.
to
ever deceived him with false or empty
didn't see
that tack, or
you say
my
have
matter as
to
any thing
else, I think
things
seem
to think
right enough, as
of so considering the
heart more set upon them than upon
have promised more than
can
perform.
Harry. I know you have, Tom. You have indeed

made a promise which no man in the ship can of himself
keep and perform
enable you
to
may get such
but you
keep your word
assistance as will
yes, and to obtain the bless-
ing too.
Tom. Are you sure of that, Harry ?

Harry. Yes and if I were as sure of your having a
;
desire for these blessings, as

assistance,
am
of your getting
should think the business in a
fair
all
needful
way
of soon
being brought about.
Tom.
Well, Harry,
desire for these things

little
about the matter,
may
go well at
much about having a

when one sits down to think a
can't say
yet
why
one can't help wishing that
all
always thought that was a good

song which says, " There's a sweet little cherub that sits
up
aloft, to
last.
keep watch o'er the
life
of poor Jack."
what you mean ; but, Harry, who

little cherub that sits up aloft ?
Harry. The child of a poet's fancy ;
pose that
is
words, just such a person as the
was pleased
to invent
tolerably good
for
it
but after
means
is
sup-
or, in plain
man who made
all,
that sweet
the song
the drift of that song
to say, there is
is
a power above,
which looks down and v'atches over those who dwell on

but if a man would understand these things
land and sea
aright, he must go to the Bible, where every thing concerning a future state, and also concerning how God's providence
watches over us in this life, is plainly told us by God himself, in the Bible, and in no other book like that.
;
Tom.
Harry
Avast,
these things in the Bible.
Bible itself
tells us,
you say, God himself

Why, it seems to me
tells
us
that the
and yet the chaplain often talks about
the Lord's telling us these things in the Bible, and he calls
the Bible " the
word of God :" all this is like traverse sailhow do you make out these things ?
Harry. I will try to clear up this point before we go
any further. Here is my Bible now all that you find here,
ing
to
me
from the
was
first
chapter of Genesis
to the
end of Revelation,
down by Moses, David, Solomon,
written
men and
God directed
the apostles, and other good
down
all
the prophets,
these writers put
them, and no other

just such things as
and therefore, when what they had thus written down was
"the word of God," because
God himself had

stand me,
did
Tom.
God
Bible
Tom
contained such things as
directed to be written
down
do you under-
but when and how

down what we find in the
quite understand this
these
men
to
put
Harry.
At
different
Sometimes he spake as
it
times
were
sometimes he sent his angels
made
it
Yes,
tell
called " the Bible,'*
was
collected into one book, the book

or,
these things
at other times
known
to
and
to tell
them
in
different
them
ways.
from heaven
in a voice
;
sometimes he
in the visions of the night
he put into their minds, without either visions
them tell us. This last

way, our chaplain says, is what is called " inspiration."
And here, in 2 Tim. 3: 16, it is said that "aZZ Scripture
is
given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for
or angels, what he would have
in right,
doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction
eousness."
Tom. Well then, Harry, if this be the case, it must be

Bible ; and
foolish and a veiy bad thing to abuse the
very
a
But are you sure,
sport of it.
I am' sorry I ever made
men
Harry, that the Bible is indeed all true ; and that the
know
you named did write what God told them ? I don't
tell you
can
I
but
not
or
of
it
heard
whether you ever
the
some of the knowing ones on board do at times say,
;
Bible
is
Now, Harry,
how I am to know which side to
know that the Bible is true.
a false and foolish book.
should
believe
like to be told
how I am to
Harry. That's
just the thing I sometime ago went to

he told me, and moreover he wrote
and
the chaplain about,
he said would do to look at afterwhat
book
down in my
wards
and
will read
it
it.
"
comes
in nicely at this time.
Some perhaps may
say.
Here
How am
it is,
I to
know
you how. Bad men could

Good men
all sin.
condemning
not write a book so plainly
that an
pretending
by
mankind
deceived
would not have
especially
revelation
divine
a
was
own
their
of
invention
but
when they were likely to get nothing by this deception
that the Bible
is
true ?
will tell
Its doctrines
reproach, imprisonment, torture, and death.
wisdom,
human
all
to
superior
and precepts are evidently
corruption of our
and they are directly contrary to that
means of gaining
as
indulge
would
impostors
nature, which
various miracles
of
account
an
you
gives
It
ends.
their
which were wrought
in the midst of vast multitudes.
religion of the Bible was, at the time of
by these miracles
lished abroad, supported
being
its
;
and
first
The
pub-
this relig-
world.
ion has ever since continued in the
" There are also various prophecies in the Bible, which
told of things
which were
should be scattered
all
to
happen
over the world
be destroyed, and that

VOL. III.
many
such
;
as, that
that
other things should
^^
the
Jews
Babylon should
come
to
10
which have already happened and as these accounts

were written long before the events to which they related
pass,
could take place, their fulfilment afterwards

sufficient to satisfy
man
every upright
is
abundantly
respecting the truth
of the Bible.
These evidences have convinced the wise
and good, in
ages, that
all
And when
true.
it is
man
once a
has experienced the power of the grace of God, in changing
by means of the
his heart
strongest evidence of
ness in himself.' "
all.
'
Bible, he will then
He
Now, Tom,
ones in the ship, ay, and in the
But w ho are they
observations.
the Bible
Why
Tom.
there's that
knowing
will defy all the
answer these
fleet too, to
that
a false and foolish book
is
have the
that belie veth hath the wit-
want
to
persuade you
drunken swab, the captain of

some
the mast, and Joe Long, of the gunner's crew, and

others.
Harry.
Bible
is
fine set,
"
chaplain said,
Men
Tom,
But,
they wish
not true
fall if
they continue
the capif
the
to live at their
and seeing, Tom, they have no mind
to
as the
is
and Joe Long, they well know that
Bible stands, they must

present rate
it
As to
against their vile, ungodly conduct."
tain of the mast,
is
indeed
are against the Bible, because the
to alter,
persuade themselves and others that the Bible

but they will one day find
it
is
true, to their
them answer what I read to you

if they can.
The Bible is the word of God. It is the only
Compass and Chart by which we can safely steer across
the ocean of life.
You may believe what Joe Long says,
sorrow.
if
again say,
you please
never direct
let
but, as for
my
me, with the help of God,
will
course by any other Chart, or steer by any
other Compass.
Tom.
Nay, Harry, I'm
they say, or do as they do.

ter,
and act much
much,
that
better,
not inclined to believe
You
what
know much betYou have told me
certainly
than they.
did not understand before
and
think
if
some
11
of our lads understood more about these things, they would

leave off talkmg against the Bible.
Harry.
am
would leave
not quite sure of that
am
off or not, I
sure
it
is,
but whether they
as
you before
both very foolish and very wicked to slight or neglect,
more
scoff at, the
word of God.
said,
much
were to write
you and me, and in
give us, by and by, a snug
If the admiral
several kind letters of instruction to

these letters were to promise to
house and home close
to his
own
vide for us through our old age,

it
Do you
a great favor.
dwelling, and there to proI
dare say
suppose
if
we
should think
a few idle, drunken,
reprobate fellows laughed at our letters, or scoffed at us for
we
reading them, that
overboard
No, Harry, they might laugh and scoff as long

but I think they would not make me tear
Tom.
as they pleased
my
up
them
and
nor forget what was said and promised in
letters,
should tear them up, or throw them
am
sure
should be a great
through their persuasion,
my
back on
its
Well
and
as in this case you see the

would act as a wise man, let me
to act in the
and towards
Him who
and kings of the earth.

ets
Tom,
then,
true colors, and
persuade you
Bible,
if,
his offered goodness.
Harry.
thing in
fool indeed,
offended the admiral, and turned
apostles to write
same way with respect

is
higher than
all
to the
the admirals
He, Tom, who inspired the prophwhat you find in the Bible, is the
same great and glorious Being who,
as
we say
at
church,
" alone spreads out the heavens, and rules the raging of the
sea,
and hath encompassed the waters with bounds until day

O, Tom, how wonderful it is
to an end."
and night come
that he should stoop so
tures as
struction
you and me
and promises
;
low as
to
to
to
take notice of such crea-
order such blessed letters of in-
be written for our learning and
encouragement, in health, in sickness, and
We, Tom, and
all
the ship's
at
death itself!
company, are making the voy-
age of
on
and from the hour
life,
this
troubled ocean,
we
in
which we were launched
have, day after day, run out
more and more of our distance, and are nearer every day
but the great question is,
the end of our voyage
Have we shaped our course by the Bible as our chart ?
Have we steered our way by the word of God as our com-
to
pass
And have we good
we
reason to believe that
shall,
through God's help, hold on and make a good landfall
and so fetch
last,
Tom,
no
is
must remain
finished
judgment
whether
falls,
so
it
the voyage
is
lies
at
This,
done
it
be well ended or not,
it
it
was
as death leaves us, so
and our doom
finds us;
price of a thousand worlds alter
Tom.
rest
ever in the same state in which
for
as the tree
When
trifling matter.
cannot be run over again

it
haven of eternal
into the
nor can the
fixed;
is
it.
Ah, Harry, you was always a good-hearted
fel-
you turned to these religious ways. If I

were as safe as you are, I should be well off; you are
always doing somebody or other a good turn no doubt but
you will make a good landfall ; but I fear the port of heaven
lies too far to windward for poor Tom Brown ever to
low, even before
fetch
it.
Harry.
Tom,
am
glad to find you are likely to
weather one danger, however, and
is
it
no small one
numbers have struck on it, and been lost.

Tom. What is that, Harry ? I'm sure
much
about these dangers, or the
Harry.
It is
when we
the course.
If
to
don't
know
escape them.
the rock of vain confidence, or the think-
ing ourselves in the fair

the port,
way
vast
way
for
heaven, and sure of making
are steering eight or ten points broad of
you were
this night to
go and ask twenty of
where they expect to go

when they die, I make no doubt but nineteen of them would
say, " they hoped to be saved and go to heaven, as well as
the greatest sinners in the ship
their neighbors."
Thus, Tom, they
rest in a
false peace,
and encourage themselves
well at
last,
la
a vain confidence of doing

although the word of God says, " The wicked
in
and all the nations that forget

God." Psalm 9 17. Now, Tom, you seem to think that
you have lived very forgetful of God you know that you
shall be turned into hell,
:
have
not' steered
by the compass of
his word, nor shaped
your course by the Bible' as youf ohart

have good sense enough
not 'likely to take
You say
Tom.
heart
is
you
good
know
to
heaven.
to
often scoffed at the Bible

thftt
God
forget
..lt'U=-;
;^
v/,>ff.
t-il?.
if I-
my
have sadly neglected and
and^ indeed,- if
were
lir u{^fjr:
For though
Harry.
I
are to be turned into hell,
would go badly with me,

nightv'
yet
is
'
vei^y" -true,
at the bottom,
and ! thinkyou
that going on at this rate
to
take
all
am
mj
the 'nations
things
afrai-d
departure
tin4\^r^}nr vwr d
>ur(w
to*
;.
Hakry. Indeed Tom, I am afraid so't for here it is

by Christ himself, " Except a man be born again, he
cannot see the kingdom of GodJ' -" Except a man be born
ji
said
of water and of the
John 3
of' God.':':
S-piriti,
:
he cannot enter
Now, Tom,
3,'5.
into the kingdonrt
you are not

you see any
or even know any thing about
think
born: again of the Spirit; nayj I don't think
necessity for this second birth^

the-
matter^
-"Tom.
depth.
what
'was.
Harry?
'
i-wmf^'naun vn
Why, Harry, you are
don't understand this
,o-..v-!
>
^^-r t<r ^jfî, v'
for I
have often wondered
meant hjheitig- born again; can you tell m6^

For it seems necessary that a man s-hould know
something about
it^
seeing
it
is
declared' that unless he
born again he cannot see the kingdom of heaven.
much
me
-'
Harry.
till
our good chaplain explained itând made
to
my
set
This point
mind:.;, but. I
explain
you
it
puzzled
so clearly to you.
First of
right in another mistake.
III.
for
is
some
time;
vety dlear
don't know whether T shall be able to
all,
You
heart being good at the bottom, and about
VOL.
my
getting quite otit of
"21=^
it
however,
let
talk about
my
me
your
always having
24
had a good
and
(too
with us,
the
much)
Tom,
of our ship
You and
Bible.
This,
heart.
is
but
the doctrine of the world,
not the doctrine of the
it is
did not bring good hearts into the world
at least not better
than David's was
his sins, he says in the fifth verse, " Behold,

iniquity,
and
in sin did
when we were
think,
and here
Psalm, after having prayed the Lord
fifty-first
my
to
was shapen in
Do you
we brought more holy
I
mother conceive me."
born, that
and more heavenly thoughts and tempers
dispositions,
the world with us, than
in
pardon
David did
into
Tom. No, to be sure not.

Harry. Well, then, instead of trying to make excuses
for our bad conduct by saying, " Our hearts are good at the
that is, go and confess
bottom," we should do like David
the worst of our case, and dive down to the bottom of the
mischief, and say, " Behold, I was shapen in iniquity, and in
Tom, all the sin and
sin did my mother conceive me."
evil which have filled, and which do now fill the world,
;
all
From
spring out of the evil of men's hearts.
of our birth
down
to the
our thoughts and desires cleave

the world, and the
the hour
threescore years and ten,

to
we
find
and love the things of
ways which God has
We
forbidden us.
every day ofTend against God's holy law, by leaving undone
which we ought to have done ; and by doing

which we ought not to have done. Nay, such
of man's heart by nature, that when left to itself
those things
those things
is
the state
it
goes astray continually from God, like a
fore the old world
was drowned, we
Be-
sheep.
lost
find, in
Genesis 6
5,
that "
God saw
earth,
and that every imagination of the thouglits of his
heart
was only
the
evil,
wickedness of
man was
and that continually."
great in the
Nor
count of the present world of people any better
the fifty-third Psalm, second and third verses,

us, that
God
" looked
down from heaven upon
is
the ac-
for
here in
David
tells
the children
of men, to see if there were any that did understand, that
Tom,
X5
what was the case
God."
Every one of them," says this word of God, " every one
of them is gone back
they are aUogether become filthy
did seek
But,
see here,
"
there
And
none that doeth good, no, not one."
is
to
con-
elude this matter, St. Paul, a thousand years after David's

time,
when
writing to some
and sins
in trespasses
and were by nature the children of
Eph. 2
wrath, even as others."
many
out turning to
these
which
who had changed their way,

You were dead
sort of life, says, "
and were living a new
have shown you are
Now, Tom,
1, 3.
other places, which
with-
could easily do,
sufficient to prove
how
mistaken you are, when you think your heart and mine are
good by nature.
Tom.
Never
my
in all
life
Why,
these were in the Bible.
did
think such things as
making me, and
this is
all
men on board, almost as black-hearted as

himself To tell you the truth, I don't like it
the officers and

the devil
and yet
much
of
indeed
strikes
certainly
it
true.
is
it
but come,
while
his
make myself
it
is
in the Bible,
Well, this
am
is
above water.
and be more
afraid too
being in a sad plight
never shall be said that
head
better,
is
and
like
Tom Brown
set
I'll
you
to
for the
and
time
to
come.
Did you make yourself
Harry.
you come
into the
at first,
Tom ?
Did
world just when and how you pleased
Tom. No, how could that be, man ?

Harry. Nor can you, without God's help, make yourself over again a second time, any more than you could do
Tom, the leopard cannot change its own spots,
it at first.
nor the black Ethiopian his skin.
Nor
Brown, without divine grace, change
by nature "
is
will
his
Tom
poor
heart,
which
deceitful above all things, and desperately
wicked."
Tom.
You
are the
first
having a deceitful heart.
man
that ever
Harry, bad as
charged
1
me
with
am, no person
16
No,
hate deceit from
Tom Brown
my very soul.
ever deceived him.
can say that
in the ship
Harry.
mean
don't
ing any of your shipmates

a flogging than
tell
know you would
sooner take
any man.
or deceive
lie,
while your heart scorns
charge you with ever deceiv-
to
:
But,
deceive another, has
to
and often deceived yourself,
in
it
Tom,
not long
every thing concerning the
nature of religion, the nature of the heart, the nature of
heaven and of happiness
concerning the
way
to
procure
them, and the time of setting about this important business
Here
is
the place, Jeremiah 17
heart
is
deceitful above all things,
who can know
?"
it
puts the question, "
God
where
9,
it
says, "
The
and desperately wicked
us the account, and then

can know it ?" I remember my
Who
tells
made me say, ^' Well, I am

ways by and by I will set
about and think, and act like some of our ship's company."
my heart only deceived me, when it quieted my
But, alas
conscience often smote me, and
determined
to leave off these
conscience with these empty promises;

time,
my
acted
said to myself,
in
its
own
old sins over again

I
will
says,
,
<'
Who
.Tom.,
Can you
it
is
can know
"Worse.
'--
'> -Harry.
we
left,
tell
how
Now
and
to
what length
heart being deceitful, why,, Harry, J
the.
often
answer the .question which
?"
it
and the matter

,
r,:,i
is
only becoming worse and
then, Torn,' let us go back to the point
about being
that a great
heart trusted
what you mean,. or rather what the
If this be
true,
My
own ways, and always was

Now, Tom, can
the bottom."
If you. can, then
Bible means, by
feel
to
say your heart has never: deceived yon in
to
these things?
has done so
from time
its
saying, " Things are good at
it
for,
and again and again
do so no more.
strength, loved
you pretend
bom
again.
This expression means
change must pass upon a man, upon every man,
before he can enter into the
kingdom of heaven
it is
such
CONVERSATION
a change as none but
man
God can
from desiring and seeking
A BOAT.
IN
17
bring about, for
it
brings a
after earthly things as the
greatest and most desirable objects, to desire and seek after
heaven and the salvation of

needful
so that
been taken
Spirit,
the thing to pass.
And
its
place
and there-
because the Spirit of God brings
change
this
man's old heart had
sometimes called being born again, or
is
being born of the
must undergo
as if a
and a new one put in
out,
change
fore this
one thing most
his soul as the
is in fact
it
the reason
:
God
is
very clear
why we
a Holy God, Christ
is
is
Holy Saviour, Heaven is a holy place, the Angels are holy,

and all those happy souls who have died in the faith and
There, Tom,
love of the Son of God are there holy also.
in heaven,
him who
himself
it is
sits
to
the eternal delight of all to adore and praise
upon the throne, and
it
is
the delight of
God
dwell in the midst of that holy, happy company.
Now, Tom, none
of our jovial fellows, as they are called,
would love such company, or such employment as this. Do

you think that the man who takes delight in drinking,
swearing, or any sinful pleasure and practice, would be
comfortable in heaven ?
No, for he would not be able to
find one angel or one soul who would keep him company.
He
would be
he would
to those
God
fly
who
for
like
back
fish out
of water
rienced that change which
is
we
of a
man who
soul of
has not expe-
And
called being born again.
are again brought back to the words of our
Saviour, " Except a

enter into the
it,
loved such like doings as praising and adoring
is,
for those
and could he do
you know these things do not delight the
an unconverted man, that

therefore
companions, and leave heaven
to his old
man
be born of the Spirit, he cannot
kingdom of God."
He
is
not a
there, neither are they
that are
fit
companion
such as would
please and delight him.
Tom.
Well,
did before, and
understand more about
think
it
this
must be as you say.
than
Such
ever
like
IQ
many
fellows as myself and
poor
company
for
about and pray
you know
deserve
shall live a better
go
to
God, and get
to
my
But, Harry, if
heart
and
life,
heaven, although
to
make but
of the crew, would
angels in heaven.
made
hope
set
then
better,
shall at last
never expect
to
do so
well as David, or St. Paul, or our chaplain.
Harry.
If
you do pray sincerely, and

to sanctify your heart, you
God
the Spirit of
in earnest, for
will certainly
have your request granted, and then no doubt but your

thoughts, your words and actions, will be better than they
were before
but
you cannot deserve heaven, nor ever

own deeds and doings.
still
get there on account of your
Why, now you
Tom.
aground again
At
this
the
men
knotty point.
last
heaven against
all
me
are getting
hard and
fast
was afloat, and clear of the

rate you will shut the port of
almost before
Why
in the fleet.
don't you,
Harry, expect that your deeds and doings will get you
heaven ? Don't you think our chaplain deserves to go
heaven
for all the
every day
think you are ahead of your reckoning now.
assistance,
to
good and kind things he says and does
There's your Bible

its
to
why
now
tell
me, either with or without
a man's good deeds and doings cannot
deserve heaven, after
God has changed
his heart.
Harry.
Because these deeds are so imperfect, so

mixed with sin, that even David and St. Paul, and all the
good men we read of in the Bible, never thought of getting
to
heaven on account of their deservings.

Tom. This is very strange. Come, show
the Bible, and then
men
tell
cannot get them
Harry.
Well
to
me why it
is,
me
this
from
that the actions of
such
heaven.
then, here, in
Psalm 143
2,
David,
sensible of the imperfection of his best services, prays to
the Lord, and says,
servant
that
is,
for in
" Enter not into judgment with thy
thy sight shall no
as the chaplain explained
man
it,
living be justified :"
"Do
not,
Lord, judge
19
me according to my deserts, for then

man can be cleared or pardoned."
or try
neither myself
And
nor any
iniquity,
3,
when speaking of himself and
Isaiah,
unclean thing, and
strict,
But,
there.
filthy
and had got so
Tom, when he saw
own
actions, then
them
he no longer boasted
on the Lord Jesus Christ,
of,
he says, "
7,
to
many good
Tom, what
the real value of all his
or trusted in
all,
to,
Yea, doubtless, and
What
have suffered the
is
Here, in Philip-
for sinners.
once, " those
count
all
counted loss for Christ.
things but loss for the excel-
loss of all things,
may win
own
ing mine
that
his soul
things were gain to me," that
lency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus
dung, that
any thing
and gladly cast
things he (St. Paul) thought so good, and
much
trusted so
which
actions to take
be saved by him, and through
Saviour had done
this
pians 3
are
he both thought and spake differently of
he had done, but he gave up
is,
We
as an
6,
heaven, that he should be sure of getting a good berth
to
what
"
all
Paul was once very conceited, and thought he
St.
had been so
him
all
the very best people
our righteousnesses are as
of his nation, he says, Isaiah 64
rags."
again, in
he said, " If thou, Lord, shouldest mark

Lord, who shall stand ?" And as to the Prophet
Psalm 130
Christ,
righteousness,
through the
faith
my
and be found
which
Lord
for
whom
and do count them but
is
in him, not hav-
of the law, but that
of Christ, the righteousness which
God by faith." Thus, Tom, you see that those good

men, who certainly were better livers than any among us,
is
of
did not expect to get to heaven because they deserved
it.
No, they knew that they had done many things which they
ought not
ought
if
to
to
have done, and had
they had done
would
left
undone much
that they
And, moreover, they knew that

which has been commanded, yet they
have performed.
still
all
have been unprofitable servants
viction fastens on every
man, as soon as
and
by the
his heart is softened
Spirit of
and
this con-
his eyes are
God.
open
CONVERSATION
20
When
a man's heart
IN
A BOAT.
changed, he, as
is
said before,
does indeed act and think far diiferently from what he did
and he
before,
steers a far better course
was but a sorry
man
with a
one.
at the
but, alas
Tom,
any man ever steered towards heaven
the best course that
with the real Christian as
It is
helm
it is
he watches every motion, and sees
every coming up and falling
otf of the vessel,
while those
between decks are ignorant how she goes. You, Tom, are
a good helmsman, and yet you know that, with all your
care and eyes about you, when steering before a hard gale
and heavy
sea,
you cannot keep
the ship from
Now
starboard or port of her true course.

deed, for a
little
boy, steady,"
is
times
to.
it is
as
Just so
is
as
He
much
you can do
sets
to
to
in-
and " steady,
short a time she is
as soon as the
when a man
wishes
quietly,
how
but in
And
his thoughts, his words,
holy word.
flying off too
much
it is,
word
the
running broad again

one way, she
may run
while, she
yawing
and then,
helm meets her
the other, and some-
prevent her broaching
about steering his heart,
and works, by the compass of God's

all to
Father in heaven would have
be what his kind and gracious

it.
He comes
up, as
it
were
from the blindness and unconcern of a sleeper between

decks
he watches
and longs
that all
all that
may
towards the port of heaven

thwartino; current.
He
passes within and without him,
go on in a straight and even course

;
but, alas
he perceives
many
finds ten thousand hinderances
from
the world, the flesh, and Satan, which, like the swell of a
him every minute ; and these

very wide of what it should be,
heavy
sea, continue to follow
make
his spiritual course
and of what he earnestly desires it to be ; so that he is sure

performances are not, cannot be worth heaven.
his best
Whatever
may
the unconcerned and unconverted sleeper below
think, he cannot go with his goodness in his hand,
and
up your heads, O ye gates, and be ye lifted up,
ve everlasting doors, and let a good-hearted man come in."
say, " Lift
21
away all such empty and presumptuous trust,

and looks to God for pity and pardon on some other account
than that of his own good heart or good actions.
He feels
what St. Paul felt, that, " when he would do good," when
No, he casts
he would give himself up wholly and continually

"evil
present with
is still
him;"
sometimes groans under the burden of remaining
exclaims, "
me
man
wretched
that I
am, who
sin,
and
shall deliver
from the body of this death?"
Tom.
Harry,
am
satisfied that
shall
no longer be
puffed up with the pride and vanity of thinking

is
God,
to
and, like the apostle, he
God knows
good.
them.
begin
that things are as
and
to see
heart of mine has
my
all
evil as the needle to the
altered
men
never get
to
heart
pretended good
feel that this
life
my
you have described
been as constantly turning
And
North and South.
as you, and the chaplain, and St.
if
to
such
Paul can
heaven by your works, what must become of
me?
You must fly for
You must
Harry.
and
willinor to save.
him who
shelter to
cro
to
Him
to
whom
is
able
St.
Paul
went, and in whose robe alone he wished to be clothed,

to
Him
for his
to
whom
own
our kind chaplain
salvation,
treats us all to go.

all
who really and

Tom. Who is
and unto
He
tells
whom
us that he looks
he so earnestly en-
can, he will, save to the uttermost
truly seek his salvation.

it ?
Tell me, Harry.
Oh
if I
was sure
he would look favorably on me, I would go to him, though

a hundred four-and-twenty pounders were turned against
me.
Harry.
As
to his
willingness to receive and to save
you are but willing to

For he came into
the world to save sinners, to seek and to save them that are
and he invites all who are burdened and heavy laden
lost
You
to come unto him, and promises to give them rest.
23
VOL. III.
your
soul, there
be saved by
Him
can be no doubt,
if
alone, as a lost sinner.
CONVERSATION IN A
22
BOAT..
who it is? Why, man, it is the Lord Jesus Christ,

same of whom our chaplain speaks in all his sermons
and his conversations with us. Don't you recollect how
he preached about him last Sunday, from Acts 4 12 ?
" Neither is there salvation in any other ; for there is none
other name given under heaven, whereby we can be saved."
ask
the
Don't you recollect
how he
told
us that "
Sav-
this blessed
was the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and that no man
Why, Tom, I thought
could come to God but by him?"
it was enough to warm every heart, when he showed how
iour
Jesus Christ
came from heaven, and
suffered and died in
our stead, and how he now reigns in heaven

prayers, and to pardon our past sin
hand of God
right
to
to
how he
hear our
sits
at the
send down the Holy Spirit on purpose
change our hearts, and to instruct and strengthen, lead

and comfort us, through all our days of health and sickness,
to
through
life
he said
and
even
in death,
Were you
glory.
asleep,
Tom,
he receives us into
until
or did
you not hear what
Tom.
was
not asleep, but
was worse
was
think-
ing about other things, and neither heard, nor understood
much
things,
of what he said
I
though now you mention these
recollect he told us of
some such
But
matters.
you know, if I had been seen attending much to them,

my messmates would have laughed at me, and therefore I
have gone on from week to week, disregarding every thing
about my soul, just as though I had no soul at all.
Harry. Ah, Tom, I know what it is to be carried down
that current.
I was long as negligent a hearer as yourself,
then,
and as much afraid of a laugh as any

thank God,
snares.
ther
Nay,
can
tell
knew nor cared
the tender mercies of
my
head
man
could be
but,
have, in a great measure, got out of these
you, that at the time
when
nei-
my soul, or about heaven, or

God my Saviour, the devil put it into
about
to think that religion
was a
sad, mopisli, melan-
CONVERSATION I^ A BOAT.
choly thing, quite unfit for a lad of any
23
and that
spirit,
it
a kind of disgrace to be seen reading the Bible.
was
Tom. Why that's just what I always thought; but

you have been talking to me, I feel convinced that a
since
man
should take care of his soul, although every person in
the ship laugh at

at last,
it
will
him
for surely, if
make up
for all his
a person gets to heaven
sorrows and sufferings
in this world.
No
Harry.
think there
still
religion.
is
Now
Tom.
But
perceive you
something sorrowful and gloomy about
me
tell
plainly,
Tom,
don't
you think there
something dull and melancholy in the Bible
Tom.
said about
gard
1
doubt of that,
is
it
Yes, Harry,
its
very
yet
though
it
don't
as
you
Well, Tom,
trust the time will
Bible, not as a
boy reads
after
I feel I
know how
what you have

ought
to re-
but
think
it is,
do.
think otherwise.
when you
soon come
will
hope and
read your
his task-book, but with delight,
with prayer and with praise.

first
being the word of God,
much
can never delight in
Harry.
do
No
doubt,
Tom, when
man
discovers his dangerous state, as a poor, helpless, un-
No doubt, when he
done sinner, he will be concerned.
learns that " the wicked shall be turned into hell, and all
the people that forget God," he will be
much
perplexed and
troubled about his soul, and joy and peace be far from him.
to see more of your need of a Savmore of the nature of heaven, more of the vileness of
sin, more of the vanity of every thing this world has to offer.
I hope you will be led to feel more of your own weakness
and then,
and proneness to depart from the living God
Tom, you will undoubtedly be more thoughtful than you
ever were before, and your heart may sometimes be cast
down with sorrow. But, if you sincerely pray to God for
help and instruction, if you do indeed set yourself to over-
hope you will be led
iour,
come your
sins,
and live
to that
Saviour who loved you, and
;:
24
gave himself
for
you
then,
Tom, you
portion of that inward peace
You
give nor take away.
will surely obtain a
which the world can neither
will not indeed join the
companions of your past days
noisy, profane
drunken,
for their en-
you.
But you will have more
more happiness and joy, in the
society of Christians, and in reading the word and singing
the praises of God your Redeemer, than any of these noisy
joyments will no longer
suit
comfort, and experience
men
ever did, or ever
Remember, Tom,
py
that
will,
experience in their sinful mirlh.
you have a
soul
which must be hap-
ever in heaven, or miserable for ever in hell.
for
therefore, the saving of
edness
your
all
lifetime,
your soul involved you

it
If,
in wretch-
would be your duty and wisdom
encounter that wretchedness.

But this can never be
the ways of " wîsdom," as I have already reminded you,
to
"are ways of pleasantness." Satan will tell you that regloomy thing. O, Tom, never was any thing
more false, than such a report. For myself I can say, I
ligion is a
have never been so happy as since
have learnt that " Je-
came into the world to save sinners." Do you

think, Tom, that my religion has made me wretched ?
Tom. No, Harry, I am certain it has not. To be sure,
sus Christ
you
don't rant'and sin between decks, or dance and drink
in the gin-shop, like
wondered
things
seems
to
see
many
you are always
to
others, but then
how you bear with
good temper
in a
go smoothly with you
foolish fellows call
you
have often
cross and vexatious

;
every thing
and though some of our
over-religious, yet all the officers,
and most of the crew, think and speak well of you.
Harry.
ness
but,
my
I have great cause to be thankful for the kindmeet with from my shipmates and from the officers
Tom, I have greater comforts than these. I have got
I
crosses and trying things to
men
much
;
but here
is
better than
my
I
comfort,
once did.
meet with, as well as other
God enables me to bear them

Through the help of God, I
have overcome the
and
content,
which
25
and swearing, and dishappy in that station, and in that lot

wisdom has appointed for me; for he
sins of drinking,
feel
his infinite
has promised that all things shall work together for good
them
to
Tom, was not the case before I

learned somewhat of my own heart from the Bible.
No, I
well remember how my mind fretted against God, and how
I considered myself unjustly dealt with by him, when his
providence permitted me to be pressed and torn away from
my dear Jane, so soon after our marriage. I was long disthat love him.
This,
contented with and hated every thing and every body on
board a man-of-war. Grog then became
my
or rather
the
gangway
and most
of
my
me
worst enemy, and

;
thus
went on
God
sinful, until
in
danger of
heart, and the
it
my stupifying friend,
often brought
in a course
me
mercy showed me
my
soul,
and
almost
to
most wretched
the state
gave
at length
the comfortable hope that he had pardoned
my
sins,
and
was willing to receive me into his everlasting kingdom.

Then, Tom, every thing put on a different appearance I
saw I had many blessings and comforts beyond thousands
I blessed his holy name for sending me where
of mankind.
1 could hear the Gospel of his dear Son, and for thus making
the very place I so much disliked, the place where my soul
;
should be brought
seek
to
everlasting peace.
its
ever they did before
though
to
fit,
to
my
Our
and comfort me.
struct
be
dwell
much
at present, to
together
deny
me
to look
this.
wait patiently his time
her and
you
said,
can but seldom see her, her
We
are not
III.
continue to in-
but the providence of

Still
would
God
we encourage each
sees
other
and the Bible has taught both
beyond the present
the present state of the
VOL.
letters
greatest delight on earth
life,
with hope and
we shall meet to part

the only pair who are separated by
times.
War and its evils are now
confidence, that after a few short years
no more.
Since that
more smoothly than

Jane has become a Christian, and
time, things have gone on, as
2*2*
20
desolating
many
filling the
hearts of
many
Tom, than any
of yours or mine.
which you think
Tom, informs
this,
report, that
and
friends,
families with troubles, greater,
Bible, this book
ancholy,
many
a country, separating
is
and
us,
by and by, " Swords
But
then, this blessed
make
like to
man
mel-
firmly believe
its
shall be beaten into plough-
shares, and spears into pruning-hooks
that nation shall not
up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war

any more." Isaiah 2:4. Is this melancholy news?
Tom. Harry, your talk makes me feel I don't know
lift
how
wish
was
What
like you.
a fool
have been
to
think such things about religion and the Bible as have been
my mind I always thought you had the best wife of

any man in the ship, but yet I thought she would have been
in
better without so
ion
much
religion
which has made her
you
much
so
now
much
so
happier than myself.
around the world
for
perceive
it
is relig-
better than the others, and
such a wife
think
would
but then,
sail all
found one,
if I
she would not be taken in tow by such a wicked wretch as
Tom
Brown.
Harry. Don't be
disheartened,
Tom
if
you do but seek
and most earnestly the kingdom of God and
first
eousness,
all
his right-
other things will be added unto you
runs the promise of God himself.
Matt. 6
for so
And when
33.
many a shilling will stay in

way out; and many a
removed, which now presses hard upon
you get a virtuous, godly

your pocket, which now
temptation will be
wife,
finds its
you.
Tom.
better
told the
All this
but,
world
shall be no
Harry.
believe,
Harry, when
?
Do you
more war
is
it
happens the
expect
to
see the day
news
when
to
be
there
Perhaps not
it is
not said
when
come
to pass.
It
happen, only that
it
ere then to
defence of
fall in
and the sooner
that piece of joyful
is to
my country
the thing will
may
be
my
lot
but this does not
;;
Others that come
trouble me.
that blessed season, while
they, because,
and enjoymore blessed than

be with the Lord in that king,
after
shall be
shall
I trust, I
27
will see
still
dom
"
Where
all
Who
the ship's
company meet,
sailed with their Saviour beneath
Where, shouting, each other they
And
The voyage
And
of
life
then will end.
mortal affliction be past
The age
For
that in
ever,
and
heaven we spend,
ever, will last."
My
present chief concern, therefore,
post
man, doing
as a
greet,
triumph o'er sorrow and death.
my
duty
to
is,
my
my
to
be found
at
my
king and country
lamp trimmed and

and as a Christian, standing with
light burning, that in whatever way my Lord may call
my
me
am
hence,
may
be ready
delivered from
from
many
all
fear
all
to
and dread of death.
mercies and comforts, and
with tolerable
ea'se
Thus
obey the summons.
distracting anxiety about
am
am
life,
thankful
enabled
to
for
and
my
bear up
under occasional hardships and
trials.
you should live to see me fall in action,

or in any other way, never let it be said that religion and
the Bible unfitted Harry Williams for doing his duty, or
made him wretched and melancholy. But here come the
be smart, and toss up the mast
officers and boat's crew
Therefore,
Tom,
if
we
shall be ofT directly.
;:
;:
28
SECURE ANCHORAGE.
Now
have found the blessed ground,
Where my soul's anchor may remain

The Lamb of God, who for my sin
Was
from the world's foundation slain
Whose mercy
When
love
shall unshaken stay.

heaven and earth are fled away.
thou bottomless abyss
My sins
Covered
are swallowed up in thee
my
is
um-ig-hteousness,
From condemnation now

While
" Mercy, free, boundless
With
is
my
when
Hither,
me
plunge
faith I
Here
And
I'm free
Jesus' blood, tlirough earth and skies,
hope,
mercy !"
cries.
in the sea
my joy, my
rest!
hell assails, I flee.
look unto
my
Saviour's breast
Away, sad doubt, and anxious

Mercy is only written there
fear,
Though waves and storms go o'er my head.

Though strengtli, and health, and friends be gone
Though joys be withered all, and dead.
Though every comfort be withdrawn
Steadfast on
Fatlier, thy
Fixed on
tliis
this
Though my
soul relies,
ground
heart
This anchor shall
When
my
mercy never
I will
fail,
my
dies.
remain.
and
flesh
decay
soul sustain.
away
power I then shall prove
Loved with an everlasting love.
Mercy's
earth's foundations melt
full
IVo. 88,
THE SHIPMATES.
A SUPPLEMENT TO
THE TRACT ENTITLED CONVERSATION
IN
A BOAT.
BY THE SAME AUTHOU,

FORMERLY A riEUTEKANT IN THE ROYAL NAVT.
Perhaps the reader may have seen a Tract entitled ^'Conversation in a Boat, hetween two Seamen,^' named Harry Williams and Tom Brown, when they belonged to the happy
Repulse.
Now,
if
he has read that account, he will have
learned that the Repulse had a fine young

lain,
and that
many
man
for
her chap-
of the officers and seamen delighted in
seeing the church rigged out on Sundays, and in frequently
looking into their Bibles,
admit
when duty and circumstances would
so that the Repulse's
what was
right and
that they not only
good
crew were well acquainted with

nay, the reader will remember
had a knowledge of these things, but that
they acted agreeably
to the principles
of the Bible.
THE SHIPMATES.
know
it
seems strange with some
make
religion can
officers
a place or people happy
and men, how

yet the thing
was on board the Repulse, had

so cured the greater part of her crew of getting groggy,
using bad language, and neglecting their duty, that it was
is
true
for the religion that
a rare thing to see a
At
way.
man
ways
think of such religious
many
so
in irons, or brought to the
indeed, the officers hardly
first,
to
by and by, they found
but,
gang-
knew what
of the crew leave off their bad tricks, that they
were forced
to say, religion
had done them good.
In short,
the duty, both at sea and in harbor, went on so well, that,
from the captain down

officers
very fond of their
board
little
who
still
But
officers.
hands were religious
all
youngest midshipman, the
to the
were quite proud of the men, and the men were
no
must not be thought that
it
were many on
there
for
loved their old ways, though they were a
ashamed and a good deal
afraid to be seen pursuing
them, since things went on so quiet and orderly about them.
Harry Williams,
as
the
reader
may
recollect,
quarter-master and cockswain of the Green Cutter
Brown belonged
Harry was
in
hand
and, as
same
to the
as fine a
may
boat,
seaman
was
Tom
and pulled the stroke-oar.
as ever took a marlinespike
be seen from the account there given
of him, he was a very sensible and godly young man, and
much
respected by
all
the officers.
a thoughtless, and what the world
Poor
Tom Brown was
calls,
a jovial fellow,
never so happy as when he could get into a grogshop,

dance, and sing, and fool
away
world, or what might befall
his
money.
him on
the
As
to
to anotlier
morrow, he
left
these matters to other people, to think of as they pleased

his
cry was, "
Tom
merry
life,
and a short one."
In this
way
Harry Williams got into

conversation with him one day at Lisbon, where the boat
was waiting for the officers.
went on
for
some
time, until
THE SHIPMATES.
That conversation, which

mentioned above, made
is
put
Tom begin
another world, as well as this
down
to
in the
book
little
think in earnest about
and, as he frequently after-
wards got into chat with the cockswain, and other serious
men, on the subject of religion and a future judgment, he,
by the grace of God, became more and more an altered

man, until it was plain to all on board, that he not only did
duty like a good and brave seaman, but that he honored,
his
and attending on the instructions of their good
his Bible,
whenever he could. This was as it should be ;

sorry to say, it was what some of the crew did
chaplain,
but
in reading
and served God, and took great delight
loved,
am
In that
not like.
number was Joe Long, who belonged to

Fie was a sad, reprobate fellow, and
the gunner's crew\
always
tried to turn religion
and the Bible
when
and so he continued until peace,

off,
and
all
When
into ridicule
was paid
the ship
hands were separated.

the Repulse went into port, to strip and return
her stores, the captain advised the crew
to remit all their
wages home, excepting what was necessary

expenses on the road.
as soon as they
This
all
the serious
to
bear their
men
did
and,
were landed, and had shaken hands, and
wished each other God speed, they shaped their various

courses towards their respective homes.
however, would not act so wisely.
more of
Some
of the crew,
Joe Long, and several
his sort, regarded neither the captain's advice nor
the kind chaplain's parting admonition, to go

fort their old fathers
They would
take
home and com-
and mothers with some of
all their
wages
their
at the pay-table,
money.
and stay,
they parted. So they remained

some had spent the greater part of what
they had received, and others had either got through the
and have
at
fine doings before
Portsmouth,
whole, or had
As
for
till
it
picked out of their pockets.
Joe Long, he was not sober for a week, and per-
THE SHIPMATES.
haps would not have been
more
then, having no
had not
for a fortnight,
female companions robbed him of

dollars to
hand over
and
off,
him without a
About that time a
left
relieve his case.
to
be taken on board
for a fair
wind
was
to
was on
vessel
blow him
pity,
seeing what a miser-
into port
but
life,
to
any vessel
The
go home, and a berth was not
wished
now he was
sorry to find himself so soon at his destination.
ashamed
the point
and, as he begged
Joe had often, in his
in.
all
for his victuals, the captain
gave him a passage, out of mere

able plight he
lift
they had
until
single person to pity or
of sailing for Bristol, Joe's native place
very hard
to sobriety
out as well as he could, by getting a
it
from one old acquaintance and another,
moved
and
landlady,
In this situation he remained for some
against his will.
making
wicked
left
to his
he was soon turned out of doors, and reduced
time,
his
was
that
all
to
truly
He was
be got on board
in the port.
chaplain of the Repulse had again and again re-
minded him and the
rest of the
crew, that " those
who
de-
spise the counsel of the Lord, shall eat of the fruit of their
own way, and be filled with their own devices," Prov. 1:31;
and now that verse seemed to tingle in his ears, which is in
the fourth chapter of Jeremiah, " Thy way and thy doings
have procured these things unto thee
ness,
because
it is
because
bitter,
and truly he found
it
so.
it
this is thy wicked;

;"
reached unto thy heart
For here he was without money,
without a berth, without lodgings, and often without food,
with no clothes but what he had on his back, and these he

in his drunken bouts at Portsmouth.
you might have seen him wandering about the
had spoiled and torn

Poor Joe
quay, sometimes getting a job

then none at
all.
As
for a day, or half a day,
to lodgings, as I said,
having no money, and being ashamed

poor parents,
who were expecting him
to
to
and
he had none,
go home
come and
to his
assist
THE SHIPMATES.
them with some part of
knew he had
This being the case, he was
receive.
to
some shed, or
forced to look out at nights for
down under,
lie
want of lodgings
two years' pay, which they
his
lee corner, to
what with half starving by day, and
till,
he soon began
at night,
more
to look
like a
ghost than like Joe Long.
Things were, however, going on very
Tom
Harry Williams and
Brown.
served his time out of Shields
but,
he was pressed, he had sailed out of

married his excellent
way
directed his
Tom
and being
still
than another
Bristol,
where he
course, to Bristol he
clear of the Repulse.
and mother while a
lost his father
a single man, cared
little
more
for
lad,
one port
and being so fond of Harry's company and
he was unwilling
conversation,
when they came on

takes coach with
steered,
was
as soon as he
Brown, having
Of
Jane.
little
differently with
Harry had formerly

for some time before
Harry
part with
to
him, even
Well, what does he do, but
shore.
and down
and fetched that place
in
to Bristol
less
they both
than twenty-four
hours' run.
And now
the reader will perceive the truth of
Bible says, that " Godliness
having promise of the

to
come."
Tim. 4
that
life
:
8.
is
now
Yes,
what the
profitable unto all things,

is,
and of that which
let foolish
and profane
lows think or say as they please, Godliness does well
man now, and
will do better for
him
hereafter.
is
fel-
for
Harry had
received such good certificates from the officers, that some

pious merchants in the city rejoiced to stand his friend
consequence of
first
this
was,
that, in less
the
than a week, he got a
mate's berth on board the Good Intent, a fine ship of
nearly five hundred tons burthen, in the American trade

and, as the captain, with
was a
religious
were long.
VOL.
III.
whom
he now lived and messed,
man, Harry was as comfortable as the days
Nor
did he forget
'J3
his
old
shipmate,
Tom
THE SHIPMATES.
Brown
but recommended him
and got him
to the captain,
And
shipped as sail-maker on board the same vessel.
Tom
thus
not only got a good berth, but had his heart's desire,
in again being
shipmate with his old friend Harry, or rather
Mr. Williams, as we now ought
to call
out in consequence of these two
men
tians; for the merchant
determined not
who owned
him.
All this
fell
being serious Christhe
Good
Intent
was
bring a curse on his ship and cargo, by
to
putting them into the hands of a set of blaspheming repro-
when he could
bates of officers and men,
get persons of
Christian character to go on board.
While
in
the
Good
was going
Intent
New
her cargo for
into the city,
shipmate, Joe
Long
whom
At
was lying
at the wharf, taking
York, one evening, as
first
Tom Brown
should he meet but his old
Tom
hardly
knew him
so
thin in the face, so dirty and miserable in his whole appear-
ance was he, that he looked, as
I said before, more like a

was when on board the Repulse.
Tom, " is this Joe Long ? Joe, my lad,
ghost than like what he
"
What !"
said
what cheer ?"

Joe was quite taken aback at this unexpected meeting
for
he was as
much ashamed
of his miserable appearance
and condition as he was rejoiced

hoped, would give him a shilling
to fall in
;
with one, who, he
so that he did not
answer
directly.
Tom, however, being now

hand, and shook
to see
you
it
though, by your rigging,
but rough times of

"
Rough
money, no
sure of his man, seized his
heartily, saying, " Joe,
it
indeed,
ship,
my
fear
boy, I'm glad
you have had
since we left the Repulse."

Tom," replied Joe " here
;
allowance one day, and the next without any thing
Rough
Tom.
soon have come to
times indeed,
should so
am, no
no lodgings, no friends, living on short
Who
this ?
to eat.
would have thought

I
am
quite
weak and
THE SHIPMATES.
faint for
want of food
and every bone
my
in
with laying on the ground at nights, without a
body aches,
hammock
or
covering."
Tom Brown was no chicken-hearted

may
be sure, that
down
not have forced a tear
veyed poor Joe from stem

a mournful
tale,
The reader
army could
when he sur-
fellow.
the threats of Bonaparte's
all
his face
to stern,
but,
and heard him
tell
his jacket-sleeve across his face, to rub off that tear
was about
to roll
such
a big tear stood in his eyes, and he drew
down
ever, that pity of itself can never feed the
which
Knowing, how-
manly cheek.
his
hungry or
clothe
the naked, without further ceremony he seized Joe by the
arm, pulling him along, and saying, at the same time,

" Thanks be to God, I have got some shot still in the locker ;
come
along,
my boy, to
the next eating-house, and get what-
ever will do you good."
This was a welcome

complied with.
Tom
while he was eating, unless

not spare the
rump
and most readily
invitation, indeed,
did not interrupt

to insist
him by conversation
upon
it
But, though
of beef.
that he should
Tom
did not as
yet say much, he thought a good deal, and could not help
lifting
up
his heart to
God, and thanking him that his mercy
and providence had provided him with food and raiment, a

good ship, and a Bible hope
voyage of
life,
Nor could he
his soul
that,
would be
when he had done
for
the
ever happy in heaven.
cast a look on poor Joe without offering
up
a silent prayer that the prodigal might be brought to his

right mind, and be received into his heavenly Father's house.
At length
decks cleared,
the
rump
Tom
of beef being removed, and the
put a
number of
questions to Joe, and-
received the whole account of his Portsmouth

the sharks
frolic,
had robbed him, and turned him out of
and how he had gone on, up

ing what he had said, by
to that
very evening
honestly telling
Tom,
how
doors,
conclud-
that he
had
THE SHIPMATES.
g
often slighted both
him and
good advice, when on board
his
the Repulse, but that he had often, since that time,
much
better
how-
felt
him had he followed it

other would forget and forgive all that was
would have been
it
and he hoped the
for
past.
" Well, Joe,"
my
slights of
own
good,
advice, since
never
felt
any other than sorry
;
you disregarded what I
to be angry, even if you had
and
am
with respect
to
really offended
but
sit
no time
is
me
for I
Joe, I
am
your soul and your body
wish that matters could as easily be put
one as in the other
you when
for
sure this
grieved to see you in such a trim.
for you, both
your former
all
only persuaded you for your
said
much
" as to
Tom,
replied
you
still, I'll
am
sorry
and
to rights in the
be with you again
directly."
Tom
Here
got up, and going into another room, ordered
a person to go, with the key of his chest, immediately on
board the Good Intent, with directions for the second mate
to
send a
shirt, jacket,
and continued
" Joe,
you
set
and
my
to his
wish you well, and always did
little I
companion,
yourself so
and the
handkerchief, pair of stockings, and
This done, he again returned
trowsers.
much
so,
even when
against our good chaplain's advice,
sometimes said
to
And now my
you.
repeat the old story, that, however you

the difficulties of this world, if
heart
must again
may now
rub through
But
pocket are open to serve you.
you do
not turn to God, and
repent you of your sins, if you do not get them blotted out
in the blood of
new
heart,
God's dear Son, and receive from him a
your soul
will be lost for ever
all
suffered, or
can ever
suffer, in this life.
about these things like Harry Williams
me
to see
the hardships and difficulties
worse than
young
fellow like
I
;
and that
will be
which you have

can't talk to
but, Joe,
you ruining both
it
you
grieves
soul and
'J^HE
SHIPMATES.
body by turning your back on the Bible, and on Jesus Christ,
and what he has done
you
so before
till
Many a man has done

many of them stayed
for sinners.
but, here is the evil,
they were in hell before they repented
row
comes
for sin
Joe replied, "
and there
it,
know
very well, that had
and true.
all this is right
taken the advice
since then, to think
strolling about the
and pennyless, and when
ground
at night, I
brought
it
home
to
me
upbraid you, or
to
Yes,
quay, hungry
my
sad conduct on
God has
to myself,
at last."
" Indeed, Joe," said
wish
have said
heart,
have been shivering on the
have often thought of
board the Repulse, and
know
should
now am. It has cut me to the

how I scorned my best friends.
have been
so often received
from one and the other on board the Repulse,

not have been as
Tom, when
sor-
too late."
Tom,
"
it
looks like
don't
it.
say any thing unkind
to
but you
know how sadly you used to laugh at the Bible, and at all
who read and loved it and now it does seem as though
God had brought things home to you at last. I say this,
Joe, to make you sensible how much you have injured
yourself, and stood in your own light, by fighting against
;
God."
"
know
my enemy
Tom,"
it,
"
replied Joe.
have made God
by standing out against him, when
science told
me you were
right
and
lowed the counsel and company of those who

they were
my
friends,
happy
ways
led to poverty and
man
I find, to
shame
in the fair road for that
which
once latighed
intolerable.
lias got
VOL.
money
III.
at,
have found,
to
told
and that they would show
and now
live a
life
my own
was wrong.
my
but which
my
squander, he
fol-
me
that
me how
to
sorrow, that their
here, and, moreover, set a
wretchedness
to
con-
is
23*
in another world,
now
believe to be
man
many who
sorrow, that while a

sure to have
THE SHIPMATES.
10
themselves his friends
call
gone, the friends soon go
Tom
is
my
days of
in distress
and now, the
friend indeed;'
found,
me
Brown,
first
me
but,
ever
it
my
and
and now,
body
in
myself,
to
that Bible
have been unhappy

been
'
Ah
think
the Bible
should
my
is
my
mind,
true
it
shipmates
Thus, Tom,
condemns me.'
mind, and you
in
mis-
you know,
have been brought
what the chaplain and some of
me; and
told
me up under
then, as
had one,
Since
it.
the
found, that if
thought has often come into
distress, the
true,
if I
ill.
all
and the
at religion
came upon me,
like comfort to bear
have often said
is 'all
laughed
back upon
When
and a great sinner.
really be afraid to look into

into
turn
to
must come from the Bible.
despised that book
my
used
have used you very
is
have
I.
distress
any thing
got
fortunes,
when
such friend that
fool,
is
and how
to,
friend in need
Tom,
world went smooth with me,

Bible
'
whom
jollity.
have been a great
money
the
See how they have served
See what happiness they have led
me.
they have stood by
in
Tom, when
but,
too.
may
see
how
have
!"
"Well, Joe," replied honest Tom, "if your troubles

lead you to pray to
God
you
assistance to help
for
to
pardon
be sorry that you have smarted a
what do you think of doing

change
"
for the better
don't
happy, and
There
is
my
weakly
to
a king's port,
and
in
if I
to
I
is
door
am
would try
fetched a port, there
and
"
and
for his
shall not
But
prospect of a
to
My mind
is
un-
cannot get a ship.
falls
ashamed.
in
my way
Could
get
and
down
get on board a man-of-war
have no way of getting
my weakly
under the rod.
do," said Joe.
nothing of work doing that
beg from door
and
?"
to
to
but then
little
Have you no
know what
body
for the past,
do better for the future,
there, unless
is little
ill-clothed state
by begging
hope of being accepted,
so
don't
know what
THE SHIPMATES.
If I
to do.
had not met you
must have
have often done, starved
in the street, I
skulked under some wall (as

with hunger and cold)
all this night.
out with a lodging for a few nights,
turn out for the better

all the
amends
But
you can help me
If
hope something
and then, Tom,
can.
jj
I will
that will be but
who have
parison with your kindness to me,
may
make you
little,
in
com-
so often slighted
you."
Here
more
seemed quite
Joe's heart
Tom
nor did
want
to
full,
and he could say no
He would
hear any more.
rather be doing a kind action than listening to a long tale of
He
thanks.
therefore broke off the discourse
comply with the

vided directly
going
request, and that a good bed should be pro-
" but," says
to a place
nesdays
by saying,
long as he remained in port, he would cheerfully
that, so
and, as
find
it
"
Tom,
of worship, where
was
this
evening
generally go on
very good and edifying,
Wedcould
wish, Joe, that you would go with me.

up, and
can chat a
little
after
The time is nearly

we come away. Will you
go?"
Joe cast a
"My
replied,
people meet
"Come
pitiful
rigging
I'll
eye
is
stay here
fit
till
with me," said
torn clothes, and

any place where decent
you come back."
his dirty,
at
not
for
Tom;
another room, " there, Joe, turn
and
dle
and
to,
and,
taking him into
and wash your hands
Here's soap, and here's water, and here's a buncontaining a few things for a change; bear a hand,
face.
rig
like Joe
yourself out, and then you will look something
Long once more.
looking at me, and
let
Bear a hand,
say, instead of
us go and hear something that
may
do us good."
Joe could do nothing but thank
and repeat
his promises oi
ever have in his power.
making
As
to
Tom
all
for his kindness,
the returns he might
Tom, he
said
little
else
THE SHIPMATES.
12
When
than, ''Bear a hand, and let us be off."
Tom
in the street,
seemed quite delighted
appearance, and more so
going
they were
at Joe's
improved
at the thought, that
still
God as well as himself

humbled down before, and he
never seen Joe so
he was
He
hear the word of
to
had
could not
but hope that the Lord would fasten convictions on his mind,
that night.
When
inal
"
Now
was given out poor Joe
the text
felt like
a crim-
was from Galatians 5 19, 20, 21.

works of the flesh are manifest, which are these,
the bar.
at
the
It
adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry,

witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, sedi-
envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings,
tions, heresies,
and such
you
told
like
of which
not inherit the
you again,
tell
as
have
which do such things
in time past, that they
also
shall
kingdom of God."
" Surely," said Joe to himself, as the minister went on,
explaining and applying the text, " this
which
pulse
he
I so
and
sat
till
is
same account
the
often heard from our chaplain on board the ReI
am
a condemned
man."
the service concluded.
"Wellj Joe,"
the crowd, "
said
What
Tom,
In this state of mind
as soon as they
were out of
think you of what you have heard
to-
night ?"
Why," answered
"
seemed
to
bring
me
right against
many
kingdom of heaven
in the sight of
miserable fellow in
soul.
Tom,
one blow.
at
have been guilty of
of those things which are to shut the doers thereof
out of the
man
the other, " to be sure, the minister
that I ever heard on board the Repulse,
all
This
is
God.
my
what
and
I feel I
body, and
now
am
a condemned
was
no better
a poor
in
my
have got by abusing the Bible, and
good friends, and good opportunities, when
Tom was
am
In the morning
had them."
rejoiced to hear Joe talk at this rate
for
he
THE SHIPMATES.
knew very
well that there
no hope of a man's going
is
Jesus Christ, as the Physician
man
feels his spiritual disorder.
that
God does
its
for
to
to
cure his soul, unless the
In other words,
Tom knew
not pardon a man's sins, and heal his soul of
infirmities, until the
and cry
13
man
And,
mercy.
is
brought
to confess his sins,
therefore, since Joe appeared to
be in some degree sensible of his
lost condition,
he hoped
these convictions would go on, and deepen, until they sent

forth the cry, "
God be merciful to me a sinner !" and until

down into the soul the answer, " Be of good
that cry brought
cheer
thy sins are forgiven thee
therefore did not try to persuade Joe that there

to
be uneasy
that he
Eph. 2:3;
but,
was a
Tom,
" here
is
it
was no need
him plainly,
as well as others,
enmity with God, and

all his lifetime
in
former times you
your case, and now God has made
feel that
it is
so, to
you may
the end that
and obtain mercy and forgiveness, which
for
you
earnestly hope
that,
hang-
" Only,"
did so to this hour.
the difference
did not believe this to be
you believe and

cry
at
wrath of God had been
ing over his head, and that
says
by nature,
had lived
that he
therefore, the
on the contrary, he told
child of wrath
He
depart in peace !"
most
renewing
will experience, through the
of the Holy Spirit."
By
this
time they were at Joe's lodgings; and
having ordered
shillings into
all
his companion's pocket, said, " I
wish you a good-night.
come to-morrow, and

age, and
and
we
It is
time for
hope we shall succeed
be on board in time."
Joe.
must now
be on board
to
Thus
what
amomg
good-night
saying,
panion and flew on board, anxious

in
me
get your dinner with us in the steer-
will look out for a birth
had happened, and
Tom,
were wanted, and put a few
things that
state of
to
Tom
tell
the shipping,
don't forget to
left
his
Harry
mind he had
com-
all
that
left
poor
THE SHIPMATES
14
"Well,"
Tom,
" well,
replied Harry,
when he had heard Tom
we know
does but turn out a true penitent,
that,
have been as the sands upon the sea-shore
sins
though his
for multitude,
the blood of Christ Jesus can and will cleanse and blot
all out.
am
glad you asked him on board
you
nnust and will go halves with
them
he will have
we wish him
another opportunity of seeing that
ôm,
out,
things are possible with God, and, if Joe
all
But,
well.
at least, in bear-
ing his expenses, until something turns out for the better."
"That,"
said
Tom, "may be
why
money,
for the
you
just as
relieving those that are really in distress.
think
should like
like; but as
does one's heart good to spend
it
to
have a chest
full
it
in
sometimes
of dollars on pur-
now had some of that cash

which I once fooled and squandered away in watches, silver
buckles, rum, and all manner of wickedness, how many
pose
and
often think, if I
suffering creatures
it
would be of use
to."
" That's very true," said Harry.
glad
but
it
gone
is
" That money, if
made many
properly laid out, would have
You and
a poor heart
were, for a long time,
very wasteful stewards of those things which God put
into
Instead of spending our money, like Christians,
our hands.
to the glory of
God and
we spent it
we had then been
the comfort of others,
in the service of the devil.
And O
if
away to give up our account, what would have become of us ?"

" why, we should have
" Become of us," replied Tom
called
been sent
to
spend an eternity with the wasters of God's
bountiful gifts, with swearers, and drunkards, and adulterers,
and whoremongers, and
all
those who, like ourselves,
That's what
turned their backs on Christ and heaven.
would have become of

wicked
us.
For the Bible
shall be turned into hell
forget God.'
It
and
all
says,
'
The
the nations that
says again and again, that such sins as
THE SHIPMATES.
we then
pit who
and
lived in will sink every
does them
So
very easy
is
it
into the bottomless
by repentance towards God,
Jesus Christ, he obtain a
faith in
dies.
unless,
J5
man
full
pardon before he
what would have be-
to find out
come of us."
You
can we be
"
Tom," answered Harry
are right,
" and never
sufficiently thankful for the tender mercies
long-suffering of our heavenly Father
and
that long-suffering
bore with us year after year, and those tender mercies at

length subdued our hearts to the love and obedience of his
But
will.
it
They
then retired
peace with
very
all
be sure
to rest, in
mankind
peace with God, and in
while poor Joe
He had
restless night.
ings, to
we must be moving
we must now say good-night."
getting late; and as
is
pretty early in the morning,
He
would not
first
of one thing, and then of another
let
the body Sleep.
sermon he had heard

"
if I
was but
how happy
should
like
I
be
himself, and got
up
no bed can give
rest
wounded by
at
lay,
and thought
one time of the
Tom
!"
in the
all
made
against him.
Brown, or Harry Williams,
Thus he mused, and
talked to
morning, fully convinced that
and peace
to
man whose
spirit is
the arrows of the Almighty.
At length
Intent
lodg-
and then, of what he had often been
on board the Repulse; and

!
warm
but then his conscience was awake, and
that
told
Long passed a
a good bed and
the time
came
for
he therefore went down
going on board the Good
to the
quay, found her out,
and received a hearty welcome from Tom, who was on

at the time.
Here they chatted a little while, till
Harry himself came up from the cabin, and, with all his
old good-nature, shook Joe by the hand, and bid him welcome on board. Poor Joe was almost confounded at this
for he expected that Harry would either take no notice of
deck
him, or else that he would scold him for his past bad con-
THE SHIPMATES.
IQ
But, instead of
duct.
this,
he found him as free and as
kind as ever, and heard not one word of upbraiding
many
on the contrary,
times he had passed through since they
"
Ah
Harry," said Joe,
but,
expressions of sorrow at the rough
himself, "
you were
not a real Christian,
left
the Repulse.
he had a
after
recovered
little
you
don't deserve this kindness from
and
should not receive
it.
if
I
man to
And now
have been a great fool to myself, a most ungrateful
my
best friends, and a great rebel against God.
you see what
all this
me to! My pretended
me and those I once
only people who notice me
has brought
friends have plundered and forsaken
neglected and abused, are the

in
my
distress."
" Well, Joe," replied Harry, " don't rake up old griev-
ances
hope you have
be useful to you
if
you are on
will be
you
'
all
at last
your
learned a lesson that will
lifetime.
Depend upon
the look-out for a real friend, for a
it,
Joe,
man who
a friend in need, and therefore a friend indeed,'
more likely to find such a one among those

who love and fear God, than among all others in the
And you may be assured, that, if ever you possess
will be far
people
world.
any thing
like happiness
will be in loving
on
this side
heaven,
way you have hitherto gone in.

ways, Joe. You have only tried one,
not in the
both
must and
it
and following the Lord Jesus Christ, and
have
tried
yet you
may
But go down with Tom the cook is taking

up the steerage dinner ; by and by, when you have dined,
I have a little to say to you by ourselves."
believe me.
Accordingly, v/hen the cook had cleared
and
platters,
Harry
said, "
Tom
pened
to you.
has given
most heartily do
me
an account of
Again, Joe,
I
away
the bowls
called Joe aft on the quarter-deck, and
wish
may
am
see
all that
has hap-
really sorry for you, and
you a happier man, and

and body. Yet I
in better circumstances, both as to soul
";
THE SHIPMATES.
am
certain there will be
little
^j
ground
to
expect
this,
unless
seek the Lord while he may be found, and call upon

him while he is near.' The invitation is, Let the wicked
forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts
and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy
you
'
'
upon him, and

" That
you
for
is
our God, for he will abundantly pardon.'
to
very encouraging," said Joe
lowed your advice in times
man
now am.
But
escaping the hell
Harry, that God

all
my
" and
losses
is
past, I should not
now
fear there
once laughed
angry with
at
me
is
Had
your good wishes and good counsel.
fol-
have been the
little
hope of
and despised.
and
thank
my
I feel,
worse than
this is
and poverty put together."
Harry had never,
till
such a strain of humility
this day,
heard Joe discourse in
and he really believed that
came from his heart therefore he proceeded

him that, as one of their crew had received
:
morning, and would not be able
to
to
it
acquaint
a hurt that
proceed on the voyage,
they should ship another person.

"As to choice of hands,
you know," said Harry, " we have plenty ; but, Joe, if in
your heart you think you can approve of and comply with
the regulations of this ship,
enter
you on our books.
will
speak
You must
to the captain to
understand, that no
oath, or drunkenness, or ridiculing religion

is
allowed here.
the cabin
We
meet every evening
and on Sundays we
shall
and the Bible,

for
prayer in
endeavor
to
serve
the Lord, so far as our circumstances at sea will allow.
The merchant who owns the ship, and the captam who
commands her, are both godly men and as for myself,
you very well know how I like to go on.
Therefore,
don't come among us, unless you think differently, and
;
are determined, by God's help, to act differently from what

you did on board the Repulse. I will give you money
to help out till you can get some other ship, if, on conVOL. III.
24
THE SHIPMATES.
19
you think you cannot go on smoothly with us
sideration,
here."
" Well, Harry," replied Joe, "

boast, or
make
say, that
allow of
my
I feel
again.
waiting for hands to-day,
crew were godly men
them myself.
becomes
ill
my
wish
were
but
offended ever to regard
to
can
of the bitterness of
were twenty ships
fear
former course or mix-
If there
although
me
but this
the deceitfulness of
would choose
yourself, in these matters;
much
too
plunging into
ing with deceivers
like
much
much
have experienced too
ungodly men, and now

sin, to
it
great promises of being good
like
go where the
to
I
never be
shall
Tom
Brown, or
God has been
fear
too
me."
Joe was quickly entered on the Good Intent's book, and
New
the ship sailed in two or three days after for
Being now out
York.
time for meeting in the cabin for
at sea, the
evening prayer was eight o'clock.
On
these occasions, the
captain read a portion of Scripture, and said a few words
on
it
then either himself or Harry prayed
then went on deck, and the rest of the crew
mocks.
It
happened, on the evening they put
the captain read from the

epistle to the Corinthians
house of
the watch
to their
this tabernacle
of God, a house not
fifth
:
"
were
chapter of
We
know
dissolved,
made with
St.
ham-
to sea, that
Paul's second
that if our earthly
we have
a building
hands, eternal in the heav-
ens," and so on to the end of the tenth verse
which,
when
he had finished, he said,

"
My
lads
the real Christian has joys
and sorrows
which the unthinking world knows nothing about.
The
world, the flesh, and the devil assault him grievously, and
often
make
his feet slip,
and sometimes almost beat him
out of the strait and narrow path of
make him
and
his
life.
groan, and long for the day
dangers will end.
These
when
conflicts
his fighting
Like other men, he has
to strug-
THE SHIPMATES.
jg
gle with the pains and decays of his body, to meet with
many
a calamity,
own
of his
Yet, under
many
family, and
his
soul
kept and supported by the
all these, his
presence of God.
day
a sad disappointment in the bosom
among
Strength
and though he has
yet he also can add,
What, above
'
is
most particular friends.
given him according
is
The Lord
his
to
are
my
afflictions,'
will deliver
me
out of
to say,
'
Many
all.'
mind up under trials

and calamities, is, the confidence that, by and by, he shall
be with his Saviour in heaven. This was what made Paul,
and his brethren at Corinth, rejoice in tribulation. They
knew
other things, bears his
all
that if their earthly house of this tabernacle
were
had a building of God, a house not made
dissolved, they
with hands, eternal in the heavens
say the same
God
at this day.
not only a pardon, but an evidence of
beareth witness with his
Rom.
16.
much
and will
dial this
is,
meet with
verse of this
his
We
again.
Our
now
older.
be, to
We
age
is
those
may
have to-day
hope that
Think,
my
all will
lads,
all
a sweet Scripture
be
what a
is
man
are ever
left
to
so,
cor-
we may
the
to
first
begin
God
tread the dry land
our dearest earthly friends be-
God
and the mighty deep once more

itself
on every
side.
are
rolls
This deep
become our grave before the present voyBut what of all this
Suppose the eyes of
not
done.
who saw
suppose death
have we
and
are again on the wide sea, and
we
beneath us, and stretches

or
God
the Spirit of
Christian companions and the house of
out of our reach
may
'
bear us up under
What
only knows whether
hind.
it
chapter of Corinthians for a
fifth
voyage with
man can
hope and trust that some here present are
have
to
that he is a child of God.'
spirit,
in possession of this blessing,
before they are
many
and
gives to the penitent sinner,
us to-day are to see us no more in this world

is,
this
to grieve,
voyage,
to
end our race
what room have we
what cause
to fear, if
we can
THE SHIPMATES.
20
we have
say, that
the witness of the Spirit of
and
sins are pardoned,
that, if the
tabernacle be dissolved during
the heavens
in
and
anxiety and distracting cares
all
slavish fear of death
all
voyage pleasant while
Thus ended
it
lasts,
make
will
it
and happy when
it is
the captain, and shut up his Bible
hymn
then sung a
pardon
And now
another
all
poor Joe
And
so they concluded.
felt,
more than
ever,
what a
that
how much happier
is,
other people
my
that if
soul,
differ-
man and
the follower of Christ
is,
and he would have given the Indies
he could have laid his hand on his heart, and
know
said,
"
earthly house of this tabernacle were
have a building of God, a house not made with
dissolved, I
hands, eternal in the heavens."

this.
they
the transgressions of the day, and to
all
them with refreshment of body and peace of
ence the love and fear of God make between one
if
and Harry offered up a short prayer
through Jesus Christ.
than
the
over."
providence and mercy of the Lord to keep them in
for the
safety, to
bless
hands, eternal in
This experience of God's love and pardon
our souls will cast out
for life,
that our
we have
voyage,
this
made with
building of God, a house not
God
house of our earthly
All he
felt
was
But, alas
he could not do
the weight of his sins, and the anger
God resting on him. And, as the old saying tells us,

One trouble seldom comes alone," so Joe found it for
almost as soon as the ship was clear of the land, he fell
ill.
The sudden change from a state of half starvation to
of
"
good living brought on a fever, and
Then
time, in danger.
it
was
his life
was, for some
was troubled
that his soul
indeed.
" Oh, Harry !" said he, " what will become of
What must
and
my
soul
do
is
My
body
is
me
sinking into ruin and death,
stained with ten thousand sins
and
must
shortly appear before the judgment-seat of Christ, to receive
THE SHIPMATES.
according
my
things done in
to the
do?"
" You must look
21
wicked
Oh, what
life.
shall I
"
replied Harry.
of
God
to
died for sinners,"
" O, but
plied Joe
counsel
you and me, from destruction."
how
the Bible, and cast the
and God knows

those sins of
still
Lord behind
how
better,
my
how
scoffed at
You know,
in many of
back.
have indulged
which the Bible says, the doers thereof
And you know
kingdom of heaven.
not enter the
but one other place, and that
is
sins
Harry and Tom, you will

I shall be cast into hell. You have
taken me into your company when I deserved to be turned
far adrift
but God will not let me be with you long here,
and I fear I shall never meet you in a better world. Pray
shall
appear before God
shall
there
my sins, my
O,
is hell.
re-
slighted all the good
received on board the Repulse
might save poor,
have sinned against him so grievously,"
" you know, Harry,
where the Son
look to Calvary,
died, the just for the unjust, that he
guilty rebels, like
how
who
Jesus Christ,
You must
both go to heaven, but
for
me, both of you.
my
burning fever, or
No
got to give.
to love that
Tom
Poor
little
his
some counsel
" Joe,
my
don't
as
felt
own
And
sins
!"
Tom, but he
strove to
he might the better give
dear fellow," said he, " remember, there are
then,
tries to ruin
them
to
harm
is
every soul.
The
go on in the love and practise
to
when he can no
he says, Now, there

VOL. III.
'
as
my
comrade.
to his afflicted
Sin away, no
'
pain, or
world has
and could say but
affected,
much
feelings, that
the tables, and tempts
he says,
my
this
have crucified by
by persuading them
of sin.
of
to get rid
have any thing
only want a pardon, and to be suffered
whom
two ways by which the devil

first is,
want
was a good deal
and Harry
keep down
Saviour
to live to
longer do
this,
despair of mercy.
will befall
you
;'
he turns
One day
the next
day
no hope, God will never forgive
24*
THE SHIPMATES.
22
you.'
But what says the God of
ners
'
Come
truth, the
Saviour of
sin-
unto me, all ye that labor, and are heavy
'If any man thirst, let

I will give you rest.'
him come unto me and drink.' Now, Joe, this heavy laden
state means the state of a man like yourself, who feels the
burden of his sin lying heavy on his soul, and the thirsting
state means the state of one who longs for mercy and salvaladen, and
you
tion, as
tation
Well, then, endeavor
do.
cast yourself at his feet
Bartimeus,
'
Jesus, thou
you
and, believe me,
cry
to
obey Christ's
invi-
out, like poor, blind
Son of David, have mercy on me,'

go and cry in vain.
will not
The
poor
penitent thief on the cross no sooner turned his dying, weep-
ing eyes
'
and under the weight of
to Christ,
me when
Lord, remember
his sins prayed,
thou comest into thy king-
dom,' than Jesus not only granted him a pardon of
him a place
trangressions, but promised
what says the Bible

reason together
shall be as wool.'
'The
He came
faith, in love,
and obedience
that
Nothing can destroy you
He
and a keeping away from Christ.
sin,
new
Come
they shall
blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth
clean.
give them a
'
scarlet,
like crimson, they
seek and to save them that are
trespasses and sins.
of
And
saith the Lord, let us
though they be red
make you
but a love of
to
Come now,
His blood can cleanse you from yours
all sin.'
fountain can
came
'
though your sins be as
be as white as snow
from
all his
in paradise.
to
pardon
lost
all
and dead in
the past, and to
heart and a right spirit to serve
whosoever
"
for the future.
He
him
says to
in
all,
him come and take the water
will, let
life freely.'
him
In this
way
did
and
Tom
often read the Bible
Harry from time
mock, and encouraged him

for his
could
very murderers.
lift
up
to
But
it
to
time discourse with
by the
side of his
look unto Jesus,
ham-
who prayed
was several days before Joe

any comfort. At length,
his head, or receive
THE SHIPMATES.
23
him a
however, the Lord answered his prayer, and give
his
now,
And
pardoned.
were
sins
sweet hope that his
his
with
lips
his
and
God,
of
love
the
with
was filled
heart
praise.
Nay,
greatly
assisted
his
mind was
so tranquil
towards his recovery;
reached America he was able

like
to
Nor did he,

ways when he recov-
do day duty.
many men, turn back to his old

No God had restored him to
ered.
and happy, that it

and before they
health and strength
and he gave
that strength to the service of
doing of his duty in that state of
Godto
call
him.
He
life in
God, and
which
it
to the
had pleased
lived to be a comfort and support to
too in things
his old father and mother, and to instruct them
by his surespected
much
was
He
souls.
their
concerning
and beloved by his equals. Whenever he passed

saw a set of drunken, swearing seaby
pity
men, and wicked prostitutes, his heart would melt with
bitter"the
"Poor creatures!" he would say,
for them.
periors,
the grogshops and
serving
ness of these things will by and by be felt ; you are
you
that
O,
death.'
is
sin
a hard master for the wages of
did but
Christ
know
!"
his dear
for
the comfort and joy of serving the
Lord Jesus
Joe was a most contented fellow.
His Bible was
in all his leisure hours,
and the worship
companion
of God was
ful
'
his chief delight.
No man
his earthly comforts than
mainly above, and he would

look up to heaven, and say,
"
There
is
my
My treasure
often,
he
could be more grate;
yet his heart
when walking
house and portion
and
my
And my abiding home

me my elder brethren stay,
And angels beckon me away,
And Jesus bids me come."
For
fair,
heart are there,
was
the deck,
THE
24
As
for
SHEPiMATES.
Harry and Tom,
were exceedingly happy
the reader
to find
may
be sure, they
Joe turn out so well.
In-
deed, they lived and sailed together in the utmost harmony,
and the Lord prospered them
in their honest, upright deal-
so that they could say, each for himself, "
ings
my
hiding-place
thou shalt preserve
thou shalt compass
Psalm 32
me
mocked
also reap.
for
whatsoever a
For he
reap corruption
art
about with songs of deliverance."
son to their shipmates, saying, "

not
Thou
from trouble
Often, too, would they speak a
7.
me
Be
man
word
not deceived
in sea-
God
is
soweth, that shall he
that soweth to his flesh, shall of the flesh
but he that soweth to the Spirit, shall
Galatians 6
of the Spirit reap life everlasting."
7, 8.
" Be sober, be vigilant ; because your adversary the devil,
:
is
Peter,
good: blessed
34:
is
5:8. "O taste and

the man that trusteth
whom
he
may
see that the
Lord
as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking
devour."
in
him."
8.
Psalm
Jo.
89.
THE
LIFE AND CONVERSION

OF
THE DAIRYMAI.
BY REV. DANIEL TYERMAN,
SINCE ONE OF THE MISSIONARY DEPUTATION TO THE SOUTH SEAS, CHINA,
INDIA, ETC.
The Dairyman's Daughter is well known to a large proThe Tract which details her life
with so much simple elegance, has not only been read with avidportion of the Christian world.
ity by all classes of society in Great Britain and America, but

has been translated into most of the languages of Europe. Nearly seven hundred thousand copies are now (1816) in circulation.
While we read that pleasing Tract, a desire is excited to

know something more of the Dairyman himself, the good old
man who several years survived his excellent child. It is the
design of this narrative to gratify such a desire. Some have supposed that the facts related of the Dairyman's Daughter are too
is an ideal picture.
From a long residence on the island where tlie scene lies, and an
intimate acquaintance with all the objects decribed, I can assert
the accuracy of Mr. Richmond's delineations and that what he
has related of the subject of his Tract is by no means exaggerated.
highly wrought, and that the scenery described
Newport, Isle of Wight,
April, 1816.
Joseph Wallbridge, the Dairyman, was born in DorsetWhen about twenty years old, he engaged in service in the Isle of Wight, where he spent the remainder of
his days.
As a servant he lived with dilferent farmers, by
shire.
whom
he was greatly esteemed
for his diligence
and good
THE DAIRYMAN.
When
beliavior.
ried
and by
his
assistance of a
about twenty-seven years of age, he mar-
own
little
industry as a day-laborer, and the
shop kept by his wife, he obtained a
comfortable subsistence.
For many years he lived
at a cottage
about a mile south-
Wight. To
which
acre or two of
east of the village of Arreton, in the Isle of
were attached
that cottage
six acres of ground, for
An
he paid an annual rent of six pounds.

the ground produced
him
corn, the rest
By
was pasturage.
and a little occasional assistance from some other

resources, he brought up a family of two sons and two
daughters with decency, and gave them all a little schooling.
He followed the two daughters to the grave ; both of
this farm,
his sons survive him.
In his dealings, he was remarked for strict uprightness.
Even
before his conversion, he appears to have acted under
He had formed no extravagant

His day was spent in labor, and his night was
passed at home, in the enjoyment of his family and his fireside, and in recruiting exhausted nature during the lonely
a high sense of integrity.
habits.
hours wiiich elapsed between early retirement and early

rising.
He was
man
and freedom from

acter.
And
of great veracity.
deceit,
while he paid a
strict
he carefully inculcated a love of
day conversing with
was a very
always
Should
tell
little
Simplicity, integrity,
were strong features

it
regard
upon
in his char-
to truth himself,
One
when he
his children.
his eldest son in the garden,
boy, he said to him, " Robert, be sure
the truth
let
nothing induce you to
tell
you
lie.
even cost you your life, be sure that you speak

an admonition which made so deep an impresthe truth "
sion on the lad's mind that he never forgot it.
But while we see so much to admire and love in the
it
character of the Daiiyman, he was yet a stranger
to true,
His "heart was not right with God;"

and he was afterwards enabled to see that, had he died at
spiritual religion.
this period,
he must have perished.
He became
conscious
THE DAIRYMAN.
that all his morality availed nothing with
God, while his
at enmity against him.

On the Sabbath, indeed,
he desisted from his accustomed labor, and, in common with
mind was
his neighbors, paid the usual visit
parish
his
to
church.
But he did not " remember the Sabbath-day to keep it holy."

He was not in that happy frame of mind which harmonizes
with the holiness and spirituality of the day.
As he went
to church, he joined the company of those who were going
the same way ; they talked over the price of cheese, butter,
and eggs they made their observations on the weather, and
mentioned who was ill, and who was dead. When they
arrived at the churchyard, they spoke of the crops, and the
prospects, and the state of the markets, till the bells chimed,
and they hastened to their pews. But " God was not in all
;
their thoughts."
Observe the Dairyman while professing
He
Searcher of hearts.
to
worship the
said his prayers with a mechanical
which had been rendered uniform and accurate by

more than half a century ; but he never
prayed with the heart. With his lips he confessed his sins,
skill,
the practice of
but he failed to repent of them.
He
the service, and knelt in others, for

not because he
of mind, or
The
was
meant
to
some parts of
was customary; and
stood in
it
express any correspondent frame
at all influenced
by a
devotional feeling.
minister read the Scriptures and preached his sermon,
while the Dairyman
slept, or
looked around him, or thought
of his horse, and his cows, and his poultry.

tion
was pronounced, and he went home well
himself, though in the sight of
The
benedic-
satisfied
God an unconverted
with
sinner,
unacquainted with the way of life, and exposed to the wrath

to come.
He closed the Sabbath as he had begun it, having
the form of godliness, but ignorant of its power.
The Dairyman
lived in this state the
seventy years of his
life
only a formalist in the worship of God.

his eldest son
whole of the
first
amiable, outwardly moral, but
was awakened
to
About
this period
a sense of the value of his
soul and the importance of real religion.
Brought up under
THE DAIRYMAN.
the eye of his parents, he had been preserved from
many
and was also moral in his conduct. But he began to

see that something more was wanting, and that " one thing
was needful," which he did not possess, to make him truly
happy it was vital religion. This he now sought with arFeeling the value of his own soul, he became anxious
dor.
evils,
for the souls of his parents,
and looked upon them with fear
Seeing their danger, he warned them " to

from the wrath to come." One day, as they were
and
solicitude.
flee
going
church, the son began
to
converse with his aged
to
change of heart
" we are good
enough ; we go to church on Sundays, we pay every one
his own, we do nobody any harm
what more can be required ?" So great was the confidence which he had of his
parent, and spoke of the importance of a
" Hold your tongue," said the old man,
own
safety at that time
while he feared that his son was
going mad, because he doubted the sufficiency of his father's

religion,
and wished
to obtain a better for himself.
was from home in service. Proviwas brought to hear the Gospel, which was
rendered the power of God to her conversion.
No sooner
did she feel the power of religion on her own soul, than she
The
eldest daughter
dentially she
began
also to be
very anxious
for
her parents,
considered in the most dangerous state, without

world.
The
Soon
old folks
after,
she wrote an affectionate letter
now began
to
might grow.
In this
to
she
in the
them.
think that madness had tainted
the blood of their children, and

evil
whom
God
were afraid whereunto
first letter
this
the daughter told her
felt, the means

was produced, and the great distress which she
While the father was reading
on their account.
parents the surprising change which she had
by which
suffered
it
this letter, the
son stood behind his chair, looking, also, over
While he saw such religious sentiments in it,

and the pious strain in which it was written, he rejoiced,
and wept, and prayed that what she had written might be
blessed to his father's conversion. But no visible effect was
then produced upon him.
its
contents.
THE DAIRYMAN.
The Dairyman had a very amiable

and
placid, gentle,
the affairs gf
life.
He was
disposition.
He was seldom ruffled by

This amiableness continued even to old
inoffensive.
age, when, generally, the
infirmities of a
sinking frame
For some years he had lost

the use of one eye.
His white locks, and a cast of features
which harmonized with the serenity of his mind, gave him
occasion a peevish fretfulness.
a venerable appearance.
How
may
far
persons go in outward show, and yet, alas,
be destitute of true religion
How
affecting to consider the
Dairyman, notwithstanding his venerable appearance, his

amiableness of mind, and his inoffensive life, destitute of the
His heart had not been touched by
knowledge of Christ
No heavenly ray had yet enlightened
the finger of God.
no heavenly affections had warmed his bosom.
his mind
He thought all was well, because he stood well with himself
and the world, though the law of God condemned his con!
duct as void of religious principle, and his soul as being

without repentance towards
Lord Jesus
How
persons
God and
sincere faith in our
Christ.
great the danger of self-deception
who
How
are eminent in morality, mistake
it
often do
for true
This was the affecting case of Joseph Wallbridge.

esteem of mankind, and hence imagined
religion
He was
just, in the
was justified before God. But true religion does

more than make us outwardly moral. While it prescribes
holy laws for the life, it governs and sanctifies the heart
that he
on us to abstain from the appearance of all evil,

upon us that we hate all evil ; while it teaches
we should do no harm to man, it requires that we serve
while
it
it
calls
enjoins
that
God from
spirit
it
the heart.
and the power.
To
It
the form of godliness it adds the

makes the life moral, by making
the heart holy.
The
soul of his excellent daughter
affections
and sacred zeal.
Her
was now
full
she selected as the proper objects of both
of holy
first
whom
and they
after-
parents were the
wards regarded her as the honored instrument of

voL. III.
25
their ccn-
THE DAIRYMAN.
The
version.
which she had

mind of her father by
began to develope them-
principles of divine grace
been the means of planting
in the
her epistolary correspondence,
first
selves in the following manner.

" As I was walking in the fields, and looking at the objects of nature," he said, "
began
to
think of
God and
his
My mind was much afiected with these thoughts,
perfections.
I was brought
I soon felt that I was a great sinner.
deep distress respecting my state, which continued for
some time. I began to pray in earnest, and to read the
and
into
Scriptures with care

Christ,
The
and
at length,
through
faith in
Jesus
obtained peace and comfort."
Dairyman's conversion, which he so

the change
which followed. Neither the preceding relation, nor any
other, however striking and remarkable, would have evinced
a change of heart, unless it had been followed bv the fruits
If true repentance, and humble dependence
of holiness.
on Christ for pardon of sin and acceptance with God, and a
devout and holy life, follow, as was the case with the Dairyreality of the
briefly described,
was clearly evidenced by
man, we have no reason to question the reality of conversion,

however simple the process.
The means employed in the conversion of sinners, and
the period of their effectual application to the mind, are
alike
But
be resolved into the sovereign pleasure of God.
to
it
observable that he generally adapts the means to
is
the peculiar structure of the mind, and to habits acquired
during the former

be
filled
law
life.
furious, persecuting Saul
must
with horror and distress by the application of the
to his
drawn by
conscience.
An
amiable John was as effectually
the cords of love.
The Dairyman more resem-
bled the latter than the former, both in his natural disposition
and
in the
The
after
means of
it is
begun,
ural objects
though
his conversion.
unfolding of the work of divine grace on the heart,
may
invisible.
is
equally of God.
The
influence of nat-
God is
Dairyman we
be traced, yet the finger of

In the case of the
present,
see this
THE DAIRYMAN.
remark
The
He was
illustrated.
reading the volume of nature.
hedges, the flowers, the blades of grass which
trees, the
surrounded him, engaged his attention.
He
who
inquired,
made these ? He saw God in them all. But, said he, what
He is an infinite Spirit he is a Being of perfect
is God ?
But what am I, that he
purity
he sees and knows me.
;
upon me, and take care of me ? O, I am vile

have sinned against him ; my heart is all impure. My
it becomes
life, however moral it has been, is full of sin
me to repent in dust and ashes
Such, it appears, was the development of the work of
His former life had been
grace in the Dairyman's mind.
spent in a round of formal duties, but now his vain hopes
sfiould look
I
were shaken
he
He saw
sinner.
himself
felt
that Christ
to
was
be a guilty and perishing

the only Saviour, and
was
He thus obtained that

enabled sincerely to trust in him.
" peace which passeth all understanding."
During his first convictions that he was a lost sinner,
and exposed to everlasting misery, he labored under great
He lived in an obscure situation in the
disadvantages.
from
any place of worship where the Gosrejnote
country,
pel was preached in its purity, and very seldom had an
opportunity of hearing the way of salvation pointed out by
a faithful minister.
tomed
to
At
the place
where he had been accuswas
attend on the Sabbath, that doctrine only
preached which had
left
him
in a state of
faction with his spiritual condition for so
was nothing
either to
afford support
awaken
dangerous
many
years.
satis-
Here
conviction of conscience or to
and consolation.
Providentially, however, his daughter soon returned from
She brought home a heart warmed with that religwhich she so eminently adorned in a holy life. The
sentiments which she had inculcated by her epistolary correspondence, she found had arrested the attention of her
and while she afforded all the assistance which was
father
service.
ion
in her
power
in the
temporal
affairs
of the family, she did
THE
8
not
fail to
DAlRYxM-\N.
Her
seek their spiritual good.
conversation, her
prayers, and her example, were of great service in deepen-
ing and carrying on the good work in the soul of her father,
who was happy
to
own
enjoy the instruction of his
child.
This circumstance affords two examples worthy of imitation.

The one is that of the father. Though great age
generally unites with the authority of the father in repelling
any attempts made by

in the present instance
his offspring to offer instruction, yet
he gave an attentive ear
to the in-
structions of his daughter, feeling that in the concerns of

religion she
was
Nay, he was
better taught than himself.
not only willing, but even anxious to receive her instruc-
In such cases
tions.
it
wise in parents to become the
is
even of their children.

The other example is that of the child. The daughter
treated her parents with all possible deference and respect
and in assuming the office of a teacher, she did not forget
She availed herself of every opporthe duties of a child.
disciples
tunity to promote the future, as well as the present, welfare
of her parents.
The Dairyman's daughter was,
time, decided in religion herself, and zealous to

so.
While she was writing
in the neighborhood, with
did not forget those
And
is
letters to
whom
she
at the
make
same
others
almost every person
was acquainted, she
who were dear to her by kindred ties.

God gave her the souls, there
she was a great blessing
and her holy converand her devout life, were also
reason to hope, of both her parents
sation, her fervent prayers,
blessed to their further edification, after their conversion.
Let the young reader follow her steps, and be encouraged to

hope for like success.
The dutiful, affectionate, and wise deportment of the
daughter, endeared her greatly to her parents, and seemed
to
render her continuance with them essential to their hap-
But "God seeth not as man seeth." This young

woman, so high in the affections of her parents, was soon
They sustained an irrepacalled home to a better world.
piness.
rable loss in her death
but they bore
it
with submission to
THE DAIRYMAX.
the will of God, recollecting that their loss
was her gain.

Under this, the greatest affliction which the good Dairyman
had hitherto met with, he maintained his usual placid and
serene frame of mind.

his domestic comfort
for
breach, however,
he had
lost
was made
in
an able counsellor, a
faithful friend, and a child indefatigable in her endeavors

to
promote his welfare.
The eminent clergyman who honored the Dairyman
and his family with his friendship, and the memory of the
daughter with so engaging a narrative, preached at a church

too remote from the old man's cottage to allow him the
benetit of his ministry.
Besides, that faithful servant in his
Lord's vineyard, soon after the death of the young woman,

was removed from the village where he preached, to a distant county.
The good old Dairyman was now bereft of
He
had few opportunities of religious inpreached with that clearness and decision which his state of mind required ; but
he embraced every opportunity of hearing those who approached the nearest to the truth. He spent eleven or
his best friends.
struction, or of hearing the Gospel
twelve years in
this state
was gone, and "
of obscurity.
The
ardor of youth
the grasshopper had
become a burden."
of the world.
He had
He had to contend with the trials

no affectionate pastor to feed him with the bread of life, and
no kind friend near to admonish him of danger, and to aid
him in his progress. He had to learn the holy art of walking with God, when old age had benumbed his faculties, and
how to contend with the powers of darkness, the depravity
of his heart, and the delusions of the world, when he needed
the consolations of religion.
Let the youthful reader from hence learn the danger of

delaying repentance.
Life steals insensibly away, while
mere
trifles employ our attention.

Eternity opens upon us,
while we are making vows and promises to prepare for it.
Few reach the advanced age of the Dairyman ; and how
rarely do those who are spared so long without religion, seek
it
then.
VOL.
Sinning for such a length of time produces dreadIll,
25*
THE DAIRYMAN.
10
ful
Rather, like Timothy, and Josiah,
hardness of heart.
and Samuel, and the Dairyman's daughter, take Christ

now for your portion, and consecrate the vigor of your days
to
him.
He
Let the aged also mark the patience and mercy of God.
bore with the Dairyman, in an unconverted state, for
seventy years.
He
God, without which
had neither
it
faith in Christ
nor love
impossible to please him.
is
obtained forgiveness through the merits of Christ,

" blood cleanseth from
all
sin."
to
But he
whose
Such instances of
late
conversion are very rare, though frequent enough to en-
courage the most aged
to
come
to Christ.
The
Scriptures
speak of one man who obtained mercy at the close of life,

that none might despair ; and of one only, that none might
presume.
Let aged sinners no longer presume on the forbearance of God, but immediately repent and seek mercy
at
his hand.
A
the
few months after the death of his excellent daughter,
Dairyman was
They had
called to follow his wife to the grave.
travelled forty-six years together through this vale
They had
accompanied the mortal remains of their two daughters to
"the house appointed for all living;" but they "sorrowed
Now the
not " over them " as those who have no hope."
of tears, sharing each other's joys and anxieties.
when she must also be separated from the good

man, and be forbidden to soothe his last days.
Her declining days, there is good reason to think, were
blessed with the consolations of religion. This greatly softened the pain of separating. They looked to a moment not
far off, when they should meet again.
Who can sufficiently estimate the importance of the conversion of any individual of a family ? The cheerful tidings
of life and salvation were brought home to the Dairyman's
cottage by the daughter.
She went from home a stranger
to religion.
Providence brought her under the sound of
the Gospel.
The Spirit applied the word, and it was the
time came,
old
THE DAIRYMAN.
means of her conversion.
She began
jj
to feel all the solici-
tude of an affectionate child and zealous Christian towards
her parents and her kindred; she wrote
them, she
to
re-
turned home and conversed with them, warned them of

their danger,
and pointed them
to
a refuge
they listened
her entreaties, repented, and lived.
Let this striking

instance of zeal and success be remembered by other young
to
Christians.
While the daughter discovered great anxiety for the conwas by no means indifferent.
One afternoon, the Dairyman and his wife were
taking a friendly cup of tea at a neighbor's house, where
there was to be some religious exercise in the evening. At
that time the maxim of his wife was, " Be not overmuch
version of the mother, the husband
j'ighteous."
A little
formal religion for a few minutes once
week was considered
quite enough.
The Dairyman was
aware, that as the time of the intended service drew near,

his wife
would withdraw
the door, locked

to his chair.
it,
and
to
prevent
this,
stepped to
put the key in his pocket, and returned
When
the old lady
was making her escape,
and though not without some

vexation, she returned, and continued during the service.
This little violence on the part of the amiable husband, had
for she was always glad afterwards to
the desired effect
she found the door locked
enjoy such opportunities.

After the death of his wife, the good old
man
continued
His wife was not

and Robert and WilElizabeth was not Hannah Was not
liam had left their father's house. Yet he was not alone,
for God was with him.
This period of solitude was closed
by his youngest son's returning to live with him.
He
brought along with him a wife and one child.
They took
the duties of the dairy upon them, and this relieved him
from many of his anxieties.
As the infirmities of old age come on, it is a privilege
to have our beloved offspring around us, to take upon them
those cares and duties of which we are no longer capable.
to attend to his little dairy, as before.
;
THE DAIRYMAN.
12
Our
children thus repay the obligations which they had
contracted in their youth.
perhaps equally
show
difficult to
The
obligation
is
mutual, and
These remarks may
discharge.
the great importance of both parents and children cul-
tivating towards each other the most ardent affection, and
exercising mutual forbearance.

their children
their children will
when they
If parents do this towards
when young, they may

repay
it
rationally expect that
in tender affection
The Dairyman was
are old.
and kindness,
a very tender and
kind parent, and until his last breath he enjoyed the constant
and affectionate attentions of his children.

Mr. Wallbridge continued with his son at his cottage
until within two years of his death, when he removed to
Newport,
He
son.
When
him.
he
know him
aspect,
my ministry and it was

became personally acquainted with
then began to attend
from that time that

not
pilgrimage at the house of his eldest
to close his
first
but
appeared in the place of worship I did

was greatly struck with his venerable
He
and soon learned that he was the old Dairyman.
was bending under
supported himself with a staff which had long been his
His milk-white
panion.
and
com-
the infirmities of eighty-two years,
locks,
and his amiable and serene
countenance, rendered him a very interesting figure.
my ministry a short time, he was

and sent to request that I would visit him. Cheerfully I obeyed the summons.
I had not before enjoyed
much religious conversation with him, and from some intimations I had received, was not without fear that I should
find him reposing in his morality, and knowing nothing of
a change of heart.
I thus beheld him with pity, and felt
the great importance of immediate fidelity.
When I entered the little room where he was sitting, he
exerted his feeble limbs, rose to receive me, and seemed
much pleased at my arrival. After making a few inquiries
After attending on
taken
ill,
as to the nature of his indisposition,
appear,
sir, to
said to him, "
be far advanced in the journey of
be near eternity."
life,
You
and
to

THE DAIRY AIAN.
" Yes, sir," said he, "
have seen eighty and two years
cannot expect to live long."

" It is a solemn thing to die and
23
to
give an account of
ourselves to God."
He
is
"I
replied,
To
"
feel that
it
is."
who have no hope
those
of heaven," said
I,
" death
very terrible."
" It is, indeed, sir."
"
As you must
you
that
" O,
sir, all
my hope is in Christ
At hearing
mistaken his
soon quit this world, what

in the next ?"
is
your hope
happy
shall be
began
character, and
this I
have no hope besides."
a confidence that
to feel
to entertain
had
a better opinion of
his religion.
continued
been,
my
interrogations
" But,
suppose, a very moral character
sir,
you have
do you not place

save you ?"
some dependence on your good works, to

" O no, sir, I am a poor, unworthy sinner.
I can do
All my dependence is placed on Christ
nothing of myself.
alone to save me."
" You have kept the Sabbath, you have prayed, and
read the Scriptures
you have been
just in
your dealings
do you not place some dependence on these things, as well

as upon Christ ?"
'
"
have made a point of these things
but
it is
Christ,
and his merits alone, that can bring me to glory."

" Do you not love the Lord Jesus Christ, then
"
hope
" Then
do."
suppose you have
felt
yourself
to
be a poor,
undone sinner."
" Yes,
"
sins
am
a very great sinner
and sin
is
mixed with
do."
all I
Do you think that you have sincerely repented of your

To repent, is not only to be sorry for your sins, but^
to forsake
" Yes,
them.
I
given me."
think
Have you
I
thus repented ?"
have, and hope that the Lord has for-
THE DAIRYMAN.
14
"But heaven
a holy place, and
is
without a change of heart, and being

know any thing of this change ?"
"
Some change,
hope, has taken place in me.
not take pleasure in sin
The
we cannot enter it
made holy do you
hate
it
wish
to
be
can-
made holy."
was long and highly interesting. My

were such as to ascertain his Christian experience,
conversation
inquiries
and his views of religion. He appeared to acquiesce most

cordially in the terms of salvation, and to approve of it as a
system of free and sovereign grace. He seemed to me to
I never was more satisfied with a first
be taught of God.
In closing the conversation I endeavored to coninterview.
and
firm his view of the great principles of the Gospel
;
enforced upon his attention the duties of self-examination,

prayer, the reading of the Holy Scriptures, constant meditation,
and habitual preparation for death. I read a chapter

and offered supplication for the aged
suited to his condition
saint.
It
pleased
God
to restore
of his wonted health

the sanctuary.
and
to
his servant to the
permit him
Having constant
to
enjoyment
appear again in
opportunities
now
for a
while of enjoying public ordinances, his religious character
appeared rapidly
to
improve.
The word was greatly
blessed
to his edification.
It
But the period of these privileges was of short duration.

was soon to close. One day, walking over some rough
fell, and received a violent bruise upon the hip.

This was fourteen months before his death. From that
time he was confined to his bed, from which he was only
He suffered considerable pain for a
occasionally removed.
while, from the injured part, though afterwards the pain
As soon as I heard of the accident I called upon
subsided.
him.
He was in bed, and in great agony ; but tranquil and
stones, he
resigned.
It was chiefly from this time that his religious principles
and character were most conspicuously unfolded. Visiting
him frequently, and enjoying his confidence and a frank
THE DAIRYMAN.
disclosure of his feelings,
15
had every opportunity of form-
ing accurate ideas of his personal religion.
The Dairyman's
religious views
were
strictly evangeli-
being drawn immediately from the Sacred Scriptures,
cal,
by a mind,
doubt not, under a divine influence.
never
detected an error in sentiment, or a distorted view of
remarkable, as he had enjoyed so

lic
means of
advantage from pub-
little
He was
instruction.
any
This accuracy was the more
doctrinal or practical truth.
happily delivered from a
self-righteous spirit, and expected to
justified before God

The person and work
be
through the righteousness of Christ.
of Jesus were the foundation of his hopes
and he was anxWhile he
ious to erect on this foundation a holy edifice.
was
was
performance of every Christian duty, he

its design by hoping for salvation
diligent in the
careful not to pervert
from
it.
The
doctrine of the Trinity, the atonement, the
new birth, repentance towards

our Lord Jesus Christ, were among the
influence of the Spirit, the
God, and
faith in
leading sentiments of this venerable saint.

All the essential features of Christian character were
evident in Joseph Wallbridge.
There were seen
contrition for sin, humility, love to
God and
him
meek-
in
his people,
ness and submission to the will of his heavenly Father, and

that spirituality of
The manner
mind which is life and peace.

which he bore his long affliction was
in
truly exemplary.
He
discovered entire resignation
patience he possessed his soul.
He was
word of discontent, or express the
in
never heard
to
want of subFrequently asking him whether he

mission to his situation.
was still resigned to the Lord's will, he generally answered
me, "Yes, sir, but I wish to be gone."
utter a
On
inquiring, as
often did
when
least
visited him,
how he
saw him last, his reply generally was,

" Comfortable."
He was enabled to " set his affections upon
things above," and to spend his lonely hours of day and
had been since
night in prayer and meditation.
For every
act of kindness
which was shown him, he
dis-
THE DAIRYMAN.
IQ
covered gratitude.
him.
He was
Many
upon
friends and strangers called
thankful for their kind attentions, their pray-
and every other expression of their affection and symOne day I perceived a small donation which some
kind friend had dropped among the bed clothes,. instead of
ers,
pathy.
putting
it
into his hand.
On
giving
it
to
him, his counte-
nance brightened, and discovered a striking union of surprise

To his affectionate son and daughter-inand gratitude.
law, wliose attentions to him were incessant, he felt sincere
thankfulness, and often expressed to me his sense of their
kindness.
He
When
took great delight in family devotion.
at
any
time his son was prevented from assembling the family in

the good old man's bedroom, he
if
was much
it was
ever he discovered discontent,
Where
distressed
should a dying saint look for consolation, but
heavenly Father
At length
and
those times.
at
to his
the powers of nature
began
to
indicate the
very near approach of death. He complained often of

fever ; his sight failed ; his hearing became dull ; his ar-
was
so indistinct that, the last time
though there was something which he wished
to
ticulation
saw him,
say
and
he made several attempts it was in vain. Yet he seemed

A few days
to remain in the same happy frame of mind.
after, the Dairyman sweetly fell asleep in Jesus, in the
eighty-fourth year of his age.
"
Mark
behold the upright, for the end of that
the perfect
man
is
man, and
peace."
[The earthly remains of Joseph Wallbridge were deposited
in
the burying- ground at Arreton, with those of his wife and his two
daughters.
On
the Sabbath after, I improved his death in a
funeral sermon to a crowded audience, at his request, from Psalm

66 16. " Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare
:
what he hath done
for
my
soul."]
]o.
WORD
It
is
90,
II SEASOI
the character of the wicked, that " thi'ough the
God
pride of his countenance, he will not seek after God.

is
not in
acter
all his
thoughts."
Have you ever
May we
ask, Is this
your char-
seriously considered the shortness
and uncertainty of all earthly things ? Have you thought

of the consequences of death, which you know awaits you ?
you living without God in the world ? acting as if

was no God, to whom you must give an account of
But what can the
your thoughts, words, and actions ?
Or
are
there
world bestow
How
uncertain are
Riches make themselves wings, and

to-day in full health
to-morrow he
Death spares neither rich nor
bed.
there
day
no discharge
is
in that
war.
all
fly
is
its
enjoyments
away.
A man
is
gasping on a death-
poor,
We
young nor old

not what a
;
know
shall bring forth.
Are you,
you are a
easy.
may
this subject ?
But
is
?
You know
Have you any reason to believe your
Or do you turn away your thoughts
By this means many keep their minds
friend, prepared for death
pardoned
sins are
from
my
sinner.
?
this like
a rational creature
get drunk, and forget the
criminal
day of his execution but

You may be drunk with the cares or
will this prevent it ?
pleasures of the world.
You may ridicule those whose
attention
is
occupied about the salvation of their souls,
who
same excess of riot with you ; but remember, every breath you draw brings you nearer eternity.
Every hour you oass without laying to heart the things
do not run
VOL. HI.
to
the
26
A WORD
IN SEASON.
which belong to your eternal peace, is an aggravation of

your guilt. It is treating God with contempt, despising his
long-suffering.
Why,
think you, has he not already cut you
Why
were not you

you have followed
in the place of
to the
grave
down
your companion,
He
bade as
whom
fair for life
doom is fixed. God has given you

You trample
a respite, and what use do you make of it ?
on his commandments you despise his ordinances you
employ the time his long-suffering affords you in this world,
to add to your guilt, as if you were afraid lest the wrath of
God were not sufficiently kindled against you for past sins.
as yourself, but
now
his
" despise the riches of his goodness, and forbearance,

and long-suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God
leadeth you to repentance." Thus you employ the time he
You
graciously affords, to treasure up wrath against the day of

wrath, and revelation of the righteous judgment of God.
we are drawing a character different from

you are sober and honest that you do not
ridicule religion, but believe the Scriptures to be the word
If you believe the Scriptures, either you have
of God ?
experienced an entire change of heart, your character is
perfectly different from what it was formerly, or else you
Do you
yours
say
that
must be convinced
The
that the
wrath of God abideth on you.
every page, declare the absolute

He who is now your Witnecessity of a change of heart.
ness, and will very shortly be your Judge, assures you, that
without this entire change of heart, this being born again
Scriptures, almost
by the power of the Holy Spirit, no man can enter into the
kingdom of God. You may take the name of Christian,
but
or, if you prefer it, you may call yourself an angel
the name will make no difference in your character in the
Men are not saved by assuming any parsight of God.
and if any man
ticular name, but by believing in Christ
;
have not the
spirit
of Christ, he
interested in Christ's salvation.
is
not a believer, he
is
not
A WORD
is,
IX SEASON.
Perhaps you do not ridicule what you call religion ; that

a religion which does not condemn your conduct, which
you with the hopes that God will wink at your sins,
your worldly-mindedness, your neglect of prayer, your ha-
flatters
a religion which teaches

you do not habitually indulge in gross sins, all
will be well
which quiets your conscience with the thought
that you are no worse than your neighbors a religion which
encourages you to think favorably of yourself; tiiat, although you are a sinner, your heart is good in the main,
and that God will accept you for your sincere, though imperfect, endeavors to serve him
a religion which leads you
to attend the minister who is nearest you, or whom your
bitual indifference about eternity
you, that
if
comparing the doctrine he preaches

life and conversation
whether he be a minister of Christ. Perhaps your religion
teaches you that it is unnecessary to be very scrupulous
father attended, without
with the word of God, or judging by his
about these things.
your views of religion, no wonder you do not

Yours is a religion exactly suited to the taste
of an enemy of God and of righteousness.
But do you
If such be
dislike
it.
never ridicule the religion of those who talk
much
of the
corruption of their hearts, of the necessity of the renewing
and sanctifying influences of the
God could
showing
like
Spirit
Who
say that
by even one sin without

you that if jôu are living
not be just, if he passed
his displeasure;
who
your neighbors, you are
tell
in the high
road
to destruction
your endeavors to recommend yourself to God are

vain ; and that, laying aside all your sobriety and decency,
as a ground of confidence, you must come to Christ for
pardon exactly upon the same footing as if you had been
guilty of murder and every crime ?
Do you not ridicule
those who show an anxiety to hear men who insist much
on particular doctrines, which you do not understand, and
that all
whose standard of Christianity is much higher than yours ?

Who say a Christian must be very strict and circumspect,
A WORD
IN SEASON.
must worship God in bis family, must pray much to God,

and converse much upon religion yea, that such things are
Do you never ridithe Christian's delight and happiness ?
cule some such people for meeting together for prayer and
reading the Scriptures, on a week-day, after their work is
;
over
you are ridiculing the
If so,
though you
may
you give
is
hate the
it
call
of no consequence.
name of
religion of Christ, al-
enthusiasm or madness.
it
religion.
taken place in your heart,
But
we
if
We
The name
do not suppose you
a great change has not
are as sure that you hate the
we are that our Bibles are true ; for

;"
us that " the carnal mind is enmity against God
religion of Jesus, as
they
tell
that " the natural
man
receiveth not the things of the Spirit
Remember how
of God, for they are foolishness to him."
the Jews rejected Jesus Christ, while they pretended great
zeal for God,
whom
and take care,
lest,
they called their Father and their God
while you call yourself a Christian, you
account the true doctrine of the cross a stumbling-block and

foolishness, and the sentiments and practice which spring
from the belief of this doctrine

uncharitable judging of others.
to
be hypocrisy, pride, and
Beloved, our heart's desire and prayer for you is, that
you may be saved. If you are indeed taught of God and
without this you cannot be a Christian you will not be displeased with our plainness of speech ; you will acknowledge,
that such as we have described was your former character;
you hated both God and Christ ; and that, but for his
goodness in opening the eyes of your understanding, you
had been still in this temper of mind. But if you imagine
that
you were never
so
bad as
this,
be assured, you are
the gall of bitterness and bond of iniquity.
The
still
first
in
part
of the work of God's Spirit on the heart, is to convince of

sin; not merely showing a man he is a sinner, for this is
allowed by all ; but convincing him, that his " heart is deceitful
above
man
convinced that
is
all things,
and desperately wicked."
Till a
this is a just description of his heart,
A WORD IN SEASON.
he does not believe the word of God.
If you therefore think

any thing good in your heart by nature, you make
God a liar, and his word is not in you.
there
is
They that are whole have no need of a physician. You

must entertain thoughts of yourself very different from what
men naturally entertain, before you come to Christ for sal-
Many
vation.
say they believe in Christ
cannot be saved without him

is
but
all
Such
his assistance to save themselves.
He
never bestow.
and helpless
death
is
assistance he will
died for the wretched, the miserable,
for those
who were
a complete atonement.
Men
of redemption.
they think they
they expect from him
" without strength."
He
try to lay a foundation for themselves
good works, their alms, their prayers, their
their
amendment
future
His
hath finished the work
but
all
tears, their
these will prove refuges of
lies,
But the man who depends

on the death of Christ alone for pardon and acceptance with
God, who ceases from looking to his own works, and looks
to the works of Christ for salvation, shall not perish, but have
which the
hail shall
everlasting
sweep away.
life.
your character ? Have you given up all confidence

of escaping the wrath of God, because you have been free
from gross sins, or because your character is good among
Is this
men
Do you
see that one offence justly and inevitably
exposes you to the wrath of God
that
your
a continued course of rebellion against him
has been
your most
;
and that
life
that
admired actions were deeply stained with guilt

you can only escape condemnation through Christ, who
died, the just for the unjust
such be your sentiments, assuredly you must love
If
Christ
and
preme
if
you love him
affection.
Is this the
at all,
case?
it
must be with a su-
Are you ready
to for-
him ? Is it your daily study to testify your

Have
regard for him, by obeying all his commandments ?
you begun to deny yourself, to take up the cross and follow
sake
all
Christ
for
Do
VOL. in.
you, like Moses, esteem the reproach of Christ
26*
A WORD
IN
SEASON
greater riches than the world can bestow
Or would you
be ashamed of being thought more religious than your neigh?

Perhaps you are afraid of being laughed at; but,
remember, that he who thus denieth Christ befo*re men, shall
be denied by him, when he would willingly court his approbation.
If you will be his disciples, you must love him more
bors
than father or mother, or wife or children, yea, than your
own
life.
And
he was
is
?
He who, " though
our sakes became poor ?" the eternal Je-
he not worthy of such love
rich, for
hovah, who dwelt among men, and purchased his church

with his own blood ? Did the God of glory take on him our
Did he bleed and die for rebels and enemies ?
nature ?
And
fer
shall
we
him above
think
it
a great return for such love, to pre-
vain world can bestow
all this
Was
ever
sorrow like the sorrow he endured, when the Lord laid on
him
the iniquities of us all
great drops of blood
garden
when he
why
when
when
his
sweat was as
were
it
an agony he prayed in the
in
cried out upon the cross.
me
My
God,
my
mockery to
talk of believing these things, and not to be affected by them ?
Do you know the power of God's wrath ? Have you
weighed the consideration of an eternity of woe ? Do you
believe what God declares, that the voluntary sufferings of
God,
hast thou forsaken
Is
it
not a
Christ prevented the destruction of the whole world
that
you escape damnation, it is wholly owing to what Christ

Have you a hope of escaping, and can you rehas done ?
fuse to love him supremely on whom alone such hope must
Have you considered the long-suffering of Jesus,
rest ?
whose name is daily blasphemed in the world who yet still
if
continues to invite his most inveterate enemies to be reconciled to
him
spares their lives
loads
them with
benefits
assures them of pardon and righteousness, without
and without price
While they spurn
his benefits
invitations with contempt, going one to his

to his
merchandise
money
treat his
farm and another
seeking for happiness where
it
never
A WORD IN SEASON.
can be found
he mildly reasons with them
ye spend your money
will
your labor
for that
which
" Wherefore
which is not bread, and

not ? Hearken diligently
for that
satisfieth
unto me, and eat ye that which
is
good, and
let
your soul
delight itself in fatness."
Allow us
to ask,
Have you found
world which you expected

be disappointed
will
you have been, you must

;
you yet persevere ? Will you not
who bestows durable
riches and righteousLet us beseech you, reader, by the mercies of God,

ruin your soul.
Behold in Christ a Saviour exactly
listen to Christ,
ness
and
the satisfaction in the
No
not to
your need
suited to
Your
ment.
heart
is
You
are guilty
he hath made atone-
hard and impenitent
give repentance and remission of sins.
he
is
exalted to
With him
the
is
residue of the Spirit; he can change your heart.
Cast
yourself on his mercy, depend on him alone, and you shall
have your
fruit
unto holiness, and the end shall be eternal
Sin shall not have dominion over you.
life.
You may
in earnest resolve to forsake sin, but in time
of temptation your resolutions will be forgotten.

desire to be holy
the
Lord
apply
be
and
without holiness no
man
you
convinced you cannot sanctify yourself, and

He came to save his people from
for help to Christ.
their sins,
and thus
to
of the saints in light.
make them meet

If
you could do
for the inheritance
you, that through this
man
ness of sins, and by him
They
are
is
you
Lord
this for yourself,
would have no need of Christ. Trust then

Jesus, and you shall not be disappointed.
Be
things.
If
shall see
in the
it
known unto
preached unto you the forgive-
all that
imbued with
believe are justified from
his
Holy
Spirit
all
they become
partakers of the divine nature, and escape the corruption that

is in the world through lust.
We refer you to the Scriptures for the truth of what you

have read. A man who had lived in every abomination,
said, on his death-bed, that the love of-sin was the only
weighty objection against the truth of Scripture.
Take
A WORD
8
care
lest the love
IN SEASON.
of the world, or the love of
should
sin,
continue to harden your heart against the word of God.
Beware
lest
you love the praise of men more than the praise
of God.
The Gospel
of salvation through Christ
the touchstone
is
which discovers the temper of the heart towards God. If

you remain without making your eternal salvation the chief
object of your concern, or if, after having heard the Gospel,
you attempt to save yourself, by any thing you can do, thus
going about to establish your own righteousness, you show
yourself an enemy to God, and a despiser of his grace, and
if
you
die in that condition,
you are
Now, God beseeches you

rebellion,
and
amazing love
to
down
to sinners, in not
the weapons of
He
be reconciled to him.
sparing his
medicine which can cure your soul.
no remedy
If
declares his
own Son
melt your heart, you are undone.
this does not
is
lost for ever.
to cast
you
It is
and
if
the only
reject this, there
" there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
but a certain fearful looking for of judgment, and fiery indignation, which shall devour " you as an adversary of God.
But
if
you
really believe on Jesus, the effects of this faith
will be a satisfactory evidence, both to yourself
and others,
you have not followed cunningly-devised fables, but that

All sin will
it is the true grace of God wherein you stand.
The love of God shall increasingly
be hateful in your eyes.
Prayer will be your delight
be shed abroad in your heart.
instead of being a burden, and all shall take knowledge of
you that you have been with Jesus. Thus, through faith in
him who overcame the world, you shall be more than conqueror ; and having triumphed over death, the last enemy,
you shall sit down with him on his throne you shall inherit
all things, and he will be your God for ever.
that
:vo.
91.
PRAYER AND FAMILY RELIGION

FROM AN ADDRESS
BY REV. BENJAMIN TRUMBULL,
NORTH HAVEN,
CONN.,
D.
D.,
1803.
Beloved Brethren and Friends Prayer is not only

an indispensable duty, but an inestimable privilege.
It is
an important part of that worship which all men owe to
God, and so essential to religion, that without it there can
be none.
It affords the noblest relief
Christian in
tant
means
Father of
all his
and support to the

it is an impor-
dangers and distresses
growth in grace, of communion with the

spirit, of overcoming the world, and of ob-
of his
his
taininty the inheritance of the saints in licrht.
prevalence
in
It
has great
averting divine judgments from a people, and
in obtaining for
them the
richest blessings.
It is the surest
defence of individuals, families, and whole nations.
Family
religion, including prayer, pious instruction,
government,
depend the
is
no
less important.
religion, comfort,
On these two
and salvation of
very
and
much
individuals,
the religion, good order, honor, and prosperity of families,

of the church,
and commonwealth.
In these the divine
honor, and the present and endless happiness of
men
are
most deeply concerned. Scarcely any thing, among a people whose fathers were men of prayer, and who, like Abraham, have commanded that their children and households
after them should keep the way of the Lord, Gen, 18
19,
can be a greater apostasy, than a casting off fear, and
restraining prayer before God, and the neglect of family
:
PRAYER AND FAMILY RELIGION.
2
religion.
It
at once sinking
is
under the
tianity,
of heathenism.
down
bring
It is at the
the wrath of
piety and disobedience.
them
cast
off for ever.
Prayer
God
is
down from
a state of Chris-
light of the glorious Gospel, into a state
same time awfully calculated
God on all such children

If men will forsake God,
Chron. 28
to
of im-
he will
9.
certainly an act oi natural toorship.
If there
more certain than

that he ought to be worshipped as such and prayer is a
principal part of that homage which we owe him, as our
His perfecCreator, constant Preserver, and Benefactor.
tions challenge our supreme love and most perfect obedience his daily care over us and countless mercies towards
our daily sins demand
us, claim our continual thanksgivings
be a
of infinite perfection, nothing
is
our constant penitential supplications for his pardoning goodness
and our continual wants, that we should always be

Prayer, therefore, is but our reasonable
asking his help.

service.
It
is
founded
infinite perfections of
They
sacrificed,
our relations to him and decried every
and made vows.
Further, the express
Jonah
commands of God
all
places and circumstances, to pray to him
all
kinds of prayer and supplication
ing,
and without
fainting.
in the
very nature of things,
in
The very heathen
pendence on him.
god.
in the
God,
It
is
man
1
to his
5, 16.
oblige men, in
;
to pray with
to pray without ceas-
written, " Trust in
him
at
ye people, pour out your hearts before him."

Psalm 62 8. " I will therefore that men pray everywhere,
lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting." 1 Tim.
all
times
8.
prayer.
Jesus Christ abundantly inculcated the duty of

" He spake a parable to this end, that men ought
always to pray, and not to faint." Luke 18: 1. He commanded, that men should watch and pray always. He expressly enjoined this as absolutely necessary to guard them
from temptation, to give them victory over the Avorld, and
that they might stand before him with victory and triumph
at the last day.
"
Watch and
pray, that ye enter not into
''Watch ye, therefore, and

Matt. 26: 41.
pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape
all these things which shall come to pass, and to stand
Luke 21 36, compared with
before the Son of man."
temptation."
chapter 22
40, 46.
The apostles were no
less express
and
abundant in inculcating this great duty. This was their

language to the churches " Pray without ceasing." 1 Thess..
5:17. " Watch unto prayer." 1 Peter, 4:7. *' Praying
:
all prayer and supplication in the spirit, and

watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication
Eph. 6 18. These passages expressly
for all saints."
command men to pray always never to cease praying at
the proper times and occasions of prayer that men watch
always with
for those times
and occasions
that they should not
fail
of
attending and improving them to their edification and comand that they should watch their hearts, that they may
fort
;
a suitable frame for prayer
always be
in
pray with
all
persevere in them to the end.

this
that they should
among Christians, and

The apostle Paul enjoins
kinds of prayer used
praying always with
sity for Christians, that
all
prayer, as of the highest neces-
they
may
succeed
in their spiritual
even after they have taken the whole armor of

done all things else to stand. Without this they
and
God,
Thus abundantly is
never can stand and wdn the field.
warfare
prayer enjoined, and the necessity of it shown, and the duty

pressed upon all men universally, by our blessed Saviour and
his apostles.
Secret prayer is expressly commanded by Christ, who

was a remarkable example of prayer. " But thou, when
thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut
thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret and thy
Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly."
He not only commanded this, and encouraged
Matt. Q:Q.
it by a most gracious promise of an open reward, but rec;
ommended
and
it
by
his example.
solitary places,
and
it
He
retired into mountains
seems, sometimes spent whole
"
nights in prayer.
And
it
came
to pass in those days, that
he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all

night in prayer to God."
Luke 6 12. How- doth this
:
command and example
and oblige
of Christ, teach
all
men
to be constant and abundant in secret prayer, and in the

secret duties of religion.
Further, as
all
kinds of prayer are expressly commanded,
prayer and supplication," family
''praying always with
all
PRAYER
This certainly
is
included.
is
one kind of prayer.
All heads of families are therefore indispensably obliged, by

the divine authority and express precept, to pray with their
Besides, as reason teacheth us to
respective households.
pray
and
in general,
God
as
we
are expressly
commanded
to
worthy to be worshipped, because we are his creatures and owe him all the
homage of our hearts and lives, because we are entirely
dependent on him and have innumerable wants which he
pray to
in secret,
because he
is
only can supply, because he loads us with his benefits,

and because we are sinners and must perish without his
pardoning mercy, so families for the same reasons are certainly
bound
to pray.
There are
all
the reasons for family
prayer which there are for secret prayer,
Nay, there are
owe no
homage to God than individuals. They are no less deThey all have family wants and blessings, have
pendent.
more, and some of greater consideration.
Families
less
family sins, and must be miserable without the divine favor.
The religion of a whole family, its order and prosperity, are

more important than those of an individual. More good,
other things being equal, is done more are instructed and
edified.
God is more visibly honored.
;
If secret prayer, therefore,
family prayer must be
be an indispensable duty,
much more
so.
Indeed,
we
are
taught this by the most important and forcible Scripture

examples.
What less could be included in the

As for me and my house, we will
of Joshua, "
Lord," Josh. 24
15, than family prayer,
and
all
resolution
serve the
pious and

useful family instruction
What
can be designed by Da-
vid's returning to bless his house,
family
2 Sara.
What was
6:20.
but to pray with his

the praying of Daniel
three times a day in his house, but family prayer

6
Had
10.
have known
it
it,
to have obtained
What were
Dan.
any advantage against him on that account.
the prayers of Cornelius in his house, but pray-
Acts 10
ers with his family?
Our
been secret prayer, his enemies could not

they could not have proved it, or expected
divine Master has
pious men.
He
prayed alone
his constant family.
"
2,
And it
30.
example to that of
who were
came to pass, as he was alone
added
his
Avith his disciples,
praying, his disciples were with him."
Luke
18.
How
remarkably did he pray with them, and for them, just before
his passion.
John
He
1*7.
not only prayed with them, but
taught them to pray with one another, or
among
themselves,
The prayer which he taught was a social

This was the form of it " Our Father, which art
prayer.
lead us not
in heaven, give us this day our daily bread
as a family.
from evil." This could not

be secret prayer, because the terms are plural. It was
given as a form particularly for his disciples, for the then
present time, while they continued together as one family
into temptation, but deliver us
and the introduction of Christianin his name.

Do not the examples of these ancient saints, and much more
the instructions and example of Christ, clearly teach us the
will of God with respect to this duty, and lay indispensable
for after his resurrection
ity,
he taught them to pray and ask every thing
obligations on all Christians to practise family prayer ?
But
eyits to
further,
do not
all
commands which oblige parthem constantly

families ?
Can any family be a
the
educate their children for God, bind
to pray with
and
for their
God, without prayer ? CerBut God has given the most strict and
abundant commands, that his people shall instruct their
children in the doctrines and duties of religion, and educate
religious family, educated for
tainly
it
cannot.
6
for him.
"
this day, shall
be
them
them
And
the words which I
diligently imto thy children,
when thou
And
in thine heart.
command
thee
thou shalt teach
and shalt talk of them
thy house, and when thou walkest by
sittest in
when thou liest down, and when thou risest

"For he established a testimony in
6, Y.
Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded
our fathers, that they should make them known to their
That the generation to come might know them,
children.
even the children which should be born, who should arise
the way, and
Deut. 6
up."
and declare them to their children that they might set

hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but
keep his commandments and might not be as their fathers,
;
their
a stubborn and rebellious generation
a generation that set
not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not steadfast
Psalm 78 5-8. "Train up a child in the

go and when he is old, he will not depart
"Bring them up in the nurture
Prov. 22 6.
with God."
Avay he should
from
it."
and admonition of the Lord." Eph. 6 4. Nothing can

be more expressly and strongly enjoined, than the good
instruction and government of children in these Scripture
Nothing can more fully show how much the
passages.
:
mind
divine
is
engaged
in
them, or
portant they are in the divine view.
how
necessary and im-
The passages imply
is the most probable and

engage them to walk in the path of life, and
God has commanded parents most
never to turn from it.
diligently and laboriously to instruct their children by precept, example, and all means in their power, and to bring
that a pious education of children

certain
way
them up
they
to
in the
may
nurture and admonition of the Lord, that
set their
hope
in
God, and not forget
but keep his commandments.

if
this
his works,
The Scriptures import
that
be not done, children will be a stubborn and rebel-
lious generation,
who
whose
not be steadfast with God.
spirit will
will not set their hearts aright,
and
Universal observation and experience teach the happy
effects of a pious education.

Nothing, perhaps, in the power
of man, can lay such a foundation for the welfare of individuals, of families, and all communities, civil or relio-ious,
as this.
The principles which men imbibe in youth, the
impressions made, and the habits which are then formed,
commonly grow up with them, continue through life, and
as that advances
grow more
fixed
and operative.
The
Jews, therefore, compared that which a child learned to

writing upon clean and elegant paper, which might always
be seen and read. Jerome compared the impressions made
on young minds, and habits formed in early life, to locks
of wool dyed in scarlet, which never could be reduced to
their original whiteness.
Children trained in the knowledge
and fear of God, have been the seed, support, and ornament of the church, from age to age. Hence, this observation of Calvin, " that
if
we would have
the church flourish,
we must
begin in the good instruction of children."

It is of the highest imaginable importance to them, with
respect to their usefulness to themselves and others, and to
their present and future happiness. It is a powerful restraint
from those errors and vices, by which persons often bring

shame, misery, and ruin upon themselves.
It makes them
orderly, peaceable, submissive,
blessing of God,
is
and
dutiful,
and through the
a special means of their salvation.
It
is
very essential to the peace, honor, and beauty of a family.

It makes children the crown and joy of their parents, the
support and solace of their declining jêars. Pious parents
have no greater joy than

in the truth
to have
this, to see their
children walking
communion with them
in
the private
and public duties and ordinances of religion to have the

pleasing hope that they are born of God, that he has given
them a spirit of adoption, and that they are striving together
;
with them in their prayers to God for themselves, for them,

and the church universal and to have the prospect that
;
they shall enjoy them for ever

family of heaven.
What
sweet
in
the great and blessed
fruits are these of the
good
education of children.
society, the
It
ornaments and
makes them good members of

the church and of the
pillars of
state.
Further, this
is
of infinite
moment
not only to the pres-
ent age, but to generations yet unborn.
ye train up your
If
children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, they

will
probably train up their children in the same manner,
and so piety may, through the blessing of God, whose mercy

is upon them who fear him unto a thousand generations,
The manner
be continued from age to age.

shall educate
in
which you
your children, their piety or wickedness,
in their consequences, give a general tone
will,
and character
to
future generations, and be the means of transmitting holi-
ness and happiness, or pollution and misery, to unborn ages.
In this view,
how
great
is
the guilt incurred in neglect-
ing family religion and good government.
commands
It is sinning
God, against all his goodness and mercy in giving you families and preserving them.
It is sinning against yourselves, against the children which
God has graciously given you, against the church and commonwealth, and against the ages which are yet to be born.
''
For I have told him,
This is a kind of unpardonable sin.
that I will judge his house for ever, for the iniquity which
he knoweth because his sons made themselves vile, and he
And therefore I have sworn unto the
restrained them not.
house of Eli, that the iniquity of Eli's house shall not be
purged with sacrifice nor offering for ever." 1 Sam. 3 13, 14.
against the express
of
This, in a peculiar manner,
is
that iniquity of the fathers,
which an offended God visits upon their children, unto the

Exod.
third and fourth generation of them that hate him.
20
When
5.
their fathers are impious, neglect tlieir edu-
them evil examples, they cause them to

become, " as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation."
Their fathers' sins become the very sins of their
cation,
and
children,
set
and so
and because of
it
proceeds from one generation to another
their sins,
God withholds
his Spirit
and grace
tliem, and his wrath comes on such children of impiety

and disobedience, for many successive ages. How ought
ye all, therefore, to fear and tremble at this sin
But how can you avoid this guilt, and escape the eternal
execration of your own dear oftspring, and of ages to come ?
How will you instruct and educate them for God, while you
neglect to pray with them and for them ?
Is not prayer a
from
very essential part of family religion
true religion or Christianity without
it ?
less families
Can there be any

Are not prayerrather heathen, than Christian families ? Fam-
ihes of heathen
Tillotson, in his
under the light of the Gospel ? Archbishop

sermons on family religion, speaking of daily
prayers to God, morning and evening, and of reading the

Scriptures at the same time, says, " Where it is neglected,
I do not see
how any
family can in reason be esteemed a
family of Christians, or indeed to have any religion at all."
Prayer is an important part of that worship and religion

which God requires of you and of your children. It is an
important part of that religion, which you are bound to teach
them.
It is one of the most solemn and impressive of all
means
we acknowledge
In this
of instruction.
greatness, infinite perfections, dominion, and
We confess our sin and misery, and ask
blessedness of God.
pardon
in the
name
the being,
consummate
of Jesus Christ, as the
Lord our
right-
We
acknowledge the mercies of God, our dependence on him, and recognize the principal doctrines and
How is it possible to teach so
duties of our holy religion.
many, and such momentous things, in any other way, so
eousness.
solemnly, and to such advantage

is
Is there
any thing which
calculated so deeply to impress the minds of your chil-
dren and domestics with a sense of the reality of the divine

existence, of an universal Providence, of their fallen, miser-
able condition, of their need of a Saviour, that Jesus

Christ,
is
and that there
is
salvation in
so calculated to fix in their
and importance of
VOL.
III.
religion ?
no other ?
minds a sense of the
What
27*
is
What
the
else
reality
can so convince them
10
of your concern for their souls and bodies, as your reading
the Scriptures to them, and praying affectionately for them,
and with them
What
other
method can
so effectually
teach them to pray, and engage them in the habit of prayer
Further, family prayer gives dignity and importance to
heads of families
in their
weight and influence to
all
own
houses, and an additional
their instructions, counsels,
and
weight to their authority, and is an important means of order and decency in families. Every head
reproofs.
It gives
of a family
is
a king and priest in his
souls are committed to his care,
own
and he
house.
is
Precious
by God's ap-
pointment to instruct and govern them for him, to
offer
and praises to him, and to be a continual intercessor for them.

A most solemn charge is committed to
their prayers
him, the charge of souls, and he must account for them.
He
sjrace and influence to discharaê his hio^h

and that he may render his account with joy, saying,
" Here am I, and the children thou hast graciously given
me." Prayer is an appointed means of obtaining all needed
grace and wisdom, and does much to qualify heads of families for the arduous duties to which God in his providence
needs continual
trust,
has appointed them.
Their reading and praying with their
awakens respect, and gives

them a commanding influence over them. It greatly assists
and strenn^thens them in the o-overnment of their families, in
restraining them from sin, and in engaging them in the
families, as their religious head,
practice of piety and righteousness.
Continual family prayer, at the same time, will have a

direct
and powerful tendency
on
your instructions and labors,
all
him.
to secure the blessing of

in
bringing
God
them up
for
This will also give a consistency to your conduct.
But how can you expect

instructions, or
What
his blessing on yourselves, your

your children, while you neglect to ask it ?
consistency, or sincerity, will there appear to be in

your religious instructions and counsels to them, while you
cast off fear, restrain prayer, and neglect religion yourselves ?
Will not your neglect teach them not to pray, weaken your
authority and influence, and render
structions,
counsels,
your religious
all
and waminors, of
little
in-
weisfht with
them ? Will you not more than unteach by youi' example,

you attempt to teach by precept ? Of what immense
all
importance, in these views,

Besides, do not
all
the
is
family prayer and religion.
commands
of God, which enjoin love
him and mankind, a regard to his honor, to the prosperity of Zion, or the good of men, bind you indispensably to
this duty ?
Most certainly they do, since your own comfort
and salvation, the peace, order, and happiness of your famiUes, the usefulness, honor, and salvation of your children,
the glory of God and the advancement of his kingdom, are
to
deeply concerned in
may
it.
may be
urged upon the same principles that any social or public
worship can be. If the perfections of God, his creating
goodness and countless mercies if our dependence on him,
It
further be observed, that family prayer
our guilty, helpless condition, and need of his help if the

honor of God, our own edification and comfort, or the in;
struction
and
duty, they
edification of others, render public
all
their families.
equally bind
If the
men
worship a
to the worship of
examples of the
saints,
God
in
and of our
blessed Lord, teach the one, they also teach the other.
Indeed, the
that
when
common
sense and feelings of mankind teach,
a family or community have offended a piince or
benefactor, they should jointly,

or
some other person
in their
When
by the head
of the family,
name, confess their
faults
and
"
Herod was highly displeased

with them of Tyre and Sidon, they came with one accord
to him, and ha\"inof made Blastus the kingr's chamberlain
theu' friend, desired peace, because theu' country was nourActs 12 20. When famiished by the king's country."
seek reconcihation.
lies,
or particular communities, have
received
rich
and
repeated favors from a prince, or some noble benefactor,

theii'
natural feelings and good sense teach
them
to
acknow-
PRAYER
12
How much more
ledge sucli favors.
and seek
to confess their faults,

to bless
him
Being to
whom
FA JULY RELIGION.
Ax\D
do they teach famihes

God, and
reconciliation to
for his countless mercies.
to confess their faults
Is
he the
only-
dependent families are not obhged
guilty,
whom they are under no obliwhom they are not bound

benefits ?
An appeal is made to
with
gations to be reconciled
to give thanks for all his
and to
Let them seriously determine
your reason and conscience.

the point.
Praying always with

in the house of God,
wherever they
may
all
prayer, comprises PUBLib
and in
prayer
the assemblies of his people,
be convened.
It implies
your being
and out of season, to offer your prayers

and praises to God, and to supplicate his mercies, as Avell
and that you by no means neglect the
as to hear his word
assembling of yourselves together, as the manner of some is.
Heb. 10 25. God has commanded his ministers to " preach
the word," to " be instant in season and out of season," 2
instant in season
Tim.
4:2;
and
duty of the people con-
this implies the
stantly to attend to offer their public prayers and praises to
God, and hear the word dispensed. Whenever' it is the

duty of ministers to pray and preach in public, it is the duty
Public social worship has been
of the people to hear.
sanctioned by divine institution, and by the example of the
saints
from the commencement of the Jewish and Christian

Good men have always
churches unto the present time.
been remarkable for their love to the house of God, and

attendance on public worship. This was the language of
David and the pious Jews '* One thing have I desired of the
:
Lord, that will I seek after

of the
Lord
all
the days of
may
that I
my
life,
house
dAvell in the
to behold the
beauty
of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple."

*
How
amiable are thy tabernacles,
Psalm 27
Lord of hosts
!
soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the

for a
day
in
thy courts
is
better than a thousand.
are they that dwell in thy house
they will be
still
4.
My
Lord
Blessed
praising
Psalm 84
thee."
"Our
This was their resolution:
1, 2, 4, 10.
feet shall stand within thy
Psalm 122
The prophets
2.
gates,
Isaiah, Micah,
represent that, in the days of the Messiah,

shall
13
Jerusalem."
and Zechariah
when the Spirit

uncommon
be poured upon mankind, there will be an
All nations shall flow together to

2:2, 3, and Micah 4:1,2. " The
zeal for public worship.
the house of God.
Isaiah
inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, Let us
go speedily
of hosts
very
to
pray before the Lord, and to seek the Lord

go also." Zech. 8 20-22. This is the
I will
spirit of
God's children towards his house and wor-
How
abundant were the primitive Christians in their

They " were continually in the
temple, praising and blessing God." Luke 24 53. " They
continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine, and in prayship.
public prayers and praises.
and were continually in the temple, praising God."

This was remarkably the spirit of Christ.
42, 46.
Where was he found at twelve years old, but in the temple,
ers
Acts 2
attending
its
public instructions
It
*'The zeal of thine house hath eaten
No
person
who
me
is
written of him,
up." Psalm 69
does not love public worship has his
or can be his disciple.
No man who
public worship, and the
communion
9.
spirit,
does not delight in

of the saints in this
world, can ever be qualified for the worship of God's temple above, or be admitted to the society and blessedness of
the church of the first-born, which are \vritten in heaven.

Public worship is one of the most important means
communion with God, and
of instruction, edification,
divine consolation
see his
power and
and
fatness.
God
writeth
and that
By the
This
in the
house of
glory,
and are
is
it is
it
all
that his people
satisfied as
with marrow
the birthplace of the saints.
up the people,
man was born in
When
shall be said of Zion, that this
Faith comes by hearing.
her.
foolishness of preaching
that believe.
God
Public worship
God to
it
pleased
is
the brightest
save them
emblem of
heaven, and most wisely adapted to prepare those
who will
14
it for that blest abode.

The blessing
Lord is upon those who attend it, and his curse is
denounced upon all those who neglect it, in the days of the
devoutly attend upon
of the
" Blessed are they that dwell in thine house

still praising thee."
Psalm 84 4. " Blessed
Messiah.
they
is
will
the
be
man
my gates, and
that heareth me, watching daily at
waiting at the posts of
who
my
doors."
Prov. 8
On
34.
the
not publicly worship God, are

threatened with drought, famine, and death. " And it shall
other hand, those
whoso
be, that
will not
will
come up
of
the families of the
all
earth unto Jerusalem to worship the King, the Lord of
upon them shall be no rain. And if the family

Egypt go not up, and come not, that have no rain, there
shall be the plague, wherewith the Lord shall smite the
heathen that come not up to keep the feast of tabernacles."
Zech, 14: 17, 18.
With what constancy, zeal, and devotion, should all go to pray before the Lord.
How should
hosts, even
of
every one resolve, "
I will
Praying always with
go
all
also.'"
prayer and supplication, as the
divine precept enjoins, comprises
up
offering
occasions
ejaculatory prayer or an
and praises to God, as
;
of short mental petitions
may
when journeying or laboring, when

They may be oftered at all times, and
This is a constant recollection, that we are in
require,
sitting or walking.
in all places.
the presence of
always
God
in his fear.
and
it
Many
greatly contributes to keep us

are the examples of
Scriptures, especially in the Psalms.

all
persons
who have attained to any

much exercised in
of piety, have been
They
them
am
it
in the
persuaded that
considerable degree
this
kind of prayer.
open
will rarely close their eyes in the evening, or

in
the morning, without
Immediate dangers,
it.
temptations, unexpected mercies, or deliverances, will en-
gage the soul
in short prayers
and
praises.
Prayer
is
the
very breath of the Christian's heart, by which he maintains
a constant course of communion with God.

David's, "are ever towards the Lord."
His eyes,
Psalm 25
15.
like
15
Praying always with all prayer and supplication, also

includes the acknowledgment of God at your tables.
Our
divine Master has taught us to pray, " Give us this day our
daily bread ;"
and by
participation of
we should
'*
his
give thanks for
Lord Jesus Christ."

This
is
that
Eph. 5
of prayer
life
They not only pray with

all
example, to ask his blessing
It is also expressly
it.
all
:
in the
commanded, that
things in the
name
of our
20.
which
all
true Christians
live.
prayer and supplication, with

perseverance therein, but they pray in the spirit, wor-
shipping the Father, in

the seed of Jacob, and
prayer.
They have
drawing near
to
all
God.
all
spirit
and
know how
in truth.
They
to wrestle with
are all
God
in
the spirit of Christ, and delight in

" Because they are sons, God hath
Son into their hearts, crying,

Abba, Father." Gal. 4 6. This is that life of prayer
which the Scriptures enjoin, which the examples of the
saints and the perfect example of our Saviour recommend.
It is that life which every good man desires and determines,
by the grace of God, to live, and which is most earnestly
recommended to all persons to whom this address shall
sent forth the Spirit of his
:
come.
To engage you in such a pious and happy life, you are

most seriously entreated to contemplate, not only the commands, but the example of Christ, and the resolutions and
examples of the saints. *'As for me," saith the Psalmist, " I
will call upon God
evening and morning, and at noon will
Psalm 55 l7, "Seven times a
I pray, and cry aloud."
day will I praise thee." Psalm 119: 164. "I will bless
the Lord at all times his praise shall be continually in my
mouth." Psalm 34 1. How did Moses, Job, Samuel,
Elijah, Daniel, the apostles, and primitive Christians pray.
How did Jesus Christ pray, night and day, while he tabernacled in flesh, " offering up prayers and supplications, with
strong crying and tears, unto Him that was able to save
Are you not under indispensable oblihim from death."
:
16
Know ye not, "that if

any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his ?"
If ye will not be followers of those who inherit the promises, ye certainly can never inherit with them.
But further, be persuaded to pray from a consideration
gations to follow these examples?
of the ADVANTAGES of prayer.

These are not only great and
numerous, but they are lasting as eternity. Prayer is a
God, as omniscient and omnipresent, as

and governing all creatures and things in heaven
earth.
It is an offering up of our desires to him, in
direct address to
directing
and
in
the
name
of Christ, for things agreeable to his will.
It is
an explicit acknowledgment of his being and perfections,
and that he is the God of all grace and consolation. It is

a fixed and solemn meditation on him, his goodness and
glory, as in his very presence.
most important of
all
means
In this view,
to impress the
it is
one of the
mind with a deep
sense of the certainty of his existence, of the glory of his
majesty, that he
upon
us,
our eyes.
and
to
By
is
always with us, that his eye
keep him always
in
is
always
our minds, and before
praying without ceasing, morning and even-
by addressing him in short

and by presenting the
desires and feelings of our hearts before him in mental
ejaculations, an habitual sense of God, of our dependence
on him, and obligations to him, are fixed in our minds, and
we are led to the most adoring ideas of his infinite majesty.
While, in this solemn manner, we meditate on him and his
infinite perfections, it is most happily adapted to humble us
before him, to beget confidence in his wisdom, power, and
goodness, a holy reverence of him, and a sense of the blessedness of having such a God for our eternal Father and
portion.
At the same time, it is calculated to impress the
heart Avith an awful sense of the danger and dreadful coning, in secret
petitions
and
in private,
and thanksgivings
at noon,
sequences of his displeasure.
In this
way
the saints ac-
quaint themselves with God, advance in peace, comfort, and

sanctification.
" Beholding as in a glass the glory of God,

tliey are
17
changed into the same image, from glory
even as by the Spirit of the Lord."

Further, prayer has a
2 Cor. 3
happy tendency
to glory,
18.
to familiarize to
our minds the principal doctrines of religion, and to estah-
While we confess our apostasy and
lish us in the truth.
exceeding sinfulness
while
and eternal
we pray
for pardon, adoption,
through the atoning death

and perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ, and ask all blessings and offer all our praises in his name, the whole tensanctification,
dency of
it is
to fix deeply
life
and habitually
in
our hearts, the
belief of the great doctrines of original sin, of our inexcus-
able wickedness, of the necessity of regeneration, of justifi-
and
wholly through a Remore and more in this, that Jesus

is the Christ, that he is mighty to save, and that there is
While we supphcate divine help to
salvation in no other.
cation, adoption,
deemer.
sanctification,
It confirms us
perform the duties of piety, righteousness, charity, forgiveness, patience, and sobriety, it is calculated to keep alive a
sense of these duties in our hearts, and to establish us in
the practice of them.
Our
supplications not to be led into
temptation, but to be delivered from
evil, have a powerful

tendency to make us afraid and cautious with respect to
sin, and to make us flee the very appearance of evil.
Our
acknowledgments of the divine mercies are adapted to keep

in continual remembrance, and to make us always
them
thankful.
Prajêr
is
also an ordinance in
release from guilt, distress,
and
which God's people ohtain

and experîence great
so7'roiv,
The Psalmist bears witness that it is

God." Psalm 73 28. What comfort and deliverance did Jacob obtain by prayer, when he
had power with God and prevailed, and the Lord delivered
him from his brother Esau. What sweet release from guilt
" His bones waxed old by
did David experience in prayer.
reason of his roaring all the day ;" but when he " acknowledged his transgression, God forgave the iniquity of his sin. For
comfort and joy.
"good
VOL.
to draAV near to
III.
28

18
this," says
lie,
" shall every one that
is
godly pray imto thee
when thou mayest be found." Psalm 32

How was Hannah comforted and blessed in prayer.
in a time
woman
of a sorrowful spirit
:-8-6.
She
but in prayer she
had been a
was comforted, and her coimtenance was no more sad. 1
Sam. 1 15, 18. What blessings did Moses, Samuel, Elijah, Daniel, the apostles, and primitive Christians obtain by
prayer.
How was Israel saved by prayer, when the Lord
was about to come up into the midst of them, and consume
;
them
in a
What
moment.
deliverances and victories did
When Moses
they obtain for the church of God.
held up
how was Amalek discomfited. When Samuel

unto the Lord, how did he thunder upon the enemies
his hands,
cried
of Israel, and save his people.
How
did they obtain victo-
and open the bottles of heaven, stop the mouths

of lions, shake the foundations of prisons, and open the gates
What blessings have been obtained for individuals,
of iron.
Is it not
for families, and the church of God, by prayer.
through prayer that Zion prospers and enjoys peace ? Is it
not through this, that she is established ? That her righteousness shall go forth as brightness, and her salvation as
a lamp that burneth ? That Jerusalem shall be made a
ries, stay,
The effectual fervent prayer of every

much. Whenever God's people
him, he will draw nigh to them, in a way of
to deliver them in danger, to comfort them in
praise in the earth ?
righteous
draw near
man
to
special grace,
availeth
soiTOw, to increase their faith, and love, and hope, and joy,
and all the fruits of their righteousness. " He will fulfil
the desire of them that fear him

save them."
Psalm 145
19.
he
He
blessings, even eternal salvation in
whosoever
shall call
will
hear their cry, and
gives
all
new covenant
answer to prayer.
upon the name
of the
Lord
" For
shall
be
Rom. 10 13.
The more Christians pray with the spirit of adoption
the more they are habituated to it
the more sweet and
sensible is their communion with the Father, and with his
saved."
PRAYER AND FA5ULY RELIGION.
19
Son Jesus Christ the more they edify themselves and grow
grace the more they edify their famihes, the church of
God, and all with whom they have occasion to pray and
the more they avert the divine judgments, and turn away
wrath from a people. The more they call down blessings
upon themselves, and families, and the Israel of God, the
greater also will be their reward in the day of the appearing and kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ for every prayer
;
in
offered in his
reward.
Even
name
will receive a divine,
an everlasting
the prayers which have been
made
in their
most secret retirement, shall be rewarded openly. How

vast and numerous, in these views, are the advantages of
prayer.
They are not merely temporal, but spiritual and
eternal.
What
motives does this sketch of the advantages
of prayer exhibit, to engage all to arise without delay,

call
upon the name
of the Lord.
and
To pray always, and not
to faint.
The
encourarjementsyi\{\Q\\
are indeed
many and
God hath given you
great beyond calculation.
advantages of pra3êr are so
many encouragements
to pray,
All the
to pray.
The goodness of God is a vast encouragement to pray to

The greater the goodness of a prince or
him always.
benefactor is, the more easy of access, the greater is the
encouragement to ask his favor. But God is infinitely and
unchangeably good, and most easy of access.
who
He is
always
upon him in truth. The poorest,

the vilest, the most helpless and forlorn may approach unto
They
him, through Christ Jesus, and be accepted in him.
may pray to him at all times, in all places, and upon all
emergencies.
They may make known unto him all their
nigh unto them
call
wants, and he will supply them.
He
is
rich unto all
who
AVhat encouragements are these to pray

God's erecting a throne of grace, and opening a way to
the mercy-seat, at the expense of the precious blood of his
own Son, is a further encouragement. He who hath done
call
so
upon him.
much
that sinners might have access to him,
must be
20
most ready and
willing to hear their prayers,
and
to
com-
them through a Redeemer. " He

who spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us
?'*
all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things
Rom. 8 32. That if any man sin, we have such an advo-
municate
blessings to
all
cate with the Father, even Jesus Christ the righteous,
But
great encouragement to pray.
couragements were not
as
though
show
sufficient to
all
is
these en-
his willinojness to
God ''who heareth

very name and nature to hear
hear, he has represented himself as the
prayer
;" as
flesh
though it were his

thou that hearest prayer, unto thee
"
prayer.
Psalm 65
come."
With
2.
This
promises perfectly correspond.
them
"
And
shall
it
come
shall all
this representation his

is
the general tenor of
to pass, that before
they
call,
answer and while they are yet speaking, I will hear."

"Ask, and it shall be given you: for every
Isaiah 65 24.
one that asketh, receiveth and he that seeketh, findeth and
will
him that knocketh, it shall be opened." Matt. 1:1,8.

Not one humble, praying soul ever once prayed in vain.
No, not one, however guilty and despised in this world,
ever went, in the name of Jesus, to the throne of grace, and
to
It is written, " I said
departed imheard and unblest.

to the seed of Jacob, Seek ye
" If ye shall ask any thing
John 14 13, and 15 16.

Holy Spirit, heaven with
:
in
me
in vain."
my name,
God
all its
Isaiah 45
not
19.
do it for you."
more ready to give his
is
I will
who
glory, to those
ask
him, than the kindest parents are to give bread to their

" If ye then, being evil, know how to
dearest offspring.
give good gifts unto your children
how much more
shall
your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit unto them that
ask
him?"
Luke 11 13. " He giveth liberally, and upJames 1:5. He does for his people " ex:
braideth not."
ceeding abundantly above

3
20.
all
that they ask or think." Eph.
What encouragements
always, and not to faint
are these to pray
to pray
93.
]\o.
THE rORGIYIia AFRICAN.

AN AUTHENTIC NARRATIVE.
Journeying on business through
the western part of the

York, in the summer of 1816, I stopped at an
inn on Saturday evening, in a thinly settled part of the
state of
New
country, and put up for the Sabbath.
Upon
inquiry,
was
informed that there was no place of public worship within a

number of miles. The thought of spending the Lord's day
such a situation spread a gloom over

is God better to us than our fears
my
mind.
But how
Being weary with
my journey, and having committed myself to the Keeper of
Israel, I retired to rest, under an affecting sense of the goodThe morning dawned upon me in a composed
ness of God.
frame of spirit; and every thing seemed to conspire to proin
often
duce in me wonder, adoration, and love. As

eyes over the rich scenery of nature's works,
cast
my
could not
my thoughts to the Maker of them all.

These " thus wondrous fair. Thyself how wondrous then !"
The day did not pass without some lively tokens of the
but exclaim, raising
divine presence.
before me, and

trines,
and
The pages
was enabled
to taste the
of the written word were open

to see the
sweetness of
its
beauty of
its
doc-
promises.
Towards the close of the day, being disturbed by the

noisy and profane conversation of some persons who had
called at the inn, I " went out into the field to meditate at
eventide."
directed
my steps towards the
wood, in a path
which led through beautiful fields richly laden with the

bounties of Providence.
I had but just penetrated the border of the forest, when the sound of a voice fell upon my
I paused ; the tone seemed to be that of supplication.
ear.
Approaching the place whence it proceeded, I perceived,
woman, apparently advanced in

upon her knees, with her hands clasped together, and
28*
VOL. III.
beside a large oak, a negro

life,

THE FORGIVING AFRICAN.
I listened, and was

her eyes steadfastly fixed upon heaven.
struck with astonishment, to hear one of the sable daughters
of Ethiopia, in the most importunate manner, raising her
Never before did I witness such simplicity,

to God.
such fervor, such engagedness. Like a true daughter of
Jacob, she seemed to have power with the Angel of God.
prayer
That part of her prayer which
distinctly heard,
was con-
fined to herself and her master.
"
to
Lord, bless
my
master.
When
he calls upon thee

hear
his soul, do not hear him, do not hear him, but
damn
make him know he wicked, and he

O Lord, have wished him bad
am
my heartkeep me from wishing him bad
wishes
me of my
though he whips me and beats me
make me more glad
and make me pray more
me
save
pray
him
to thee.
will
is
afraid,
in
sins,
sore, tell
to thee
what thou hast done
for
for
me, a poor negro."
As she arose from her kneeling posture, her eye glanced

upon me. Ingenuous confusion overspread her countenance
on being thus discovered. She was preparing hastily to retreat, when I called to her in a mild tone, bade her not to be
alarmed, and told her I was pleased to find her so well employed.
Encouraged by the mildness of
came towards me.
my
address, she
inquired into her situation and circum-
and she seemed very happy of the opportunity of

making them known. I asked her why she came to this
She answered that her master was a very
place to pray.
wicked man, and would not, if he knew it, allow her to
pray at all. The reason of her coming there at this time to
stances,
pray, was, that her master had been beating her that day,
and she was afraid she had not felt right towards him and
had done wrong, also, by not submitting with more
;
that she
unhappy lot. I asked her how she came

was her duty to pray. She said she had once
resignation to her
to think
heard a
it
woman
pray in a barn
the whole world
road
to hell
and
said they
that the
were
woman
all sinners,
that after she heard this
prayed
for
and going the
woman's prayer,
THE FORGIVING AFRICAN.

she thought
time she
was her duty to pray too. But for a long

she was so bad that she could not pray.
it
felt that
After a while she found that she could pray, and that she
loved to pray.
seemed
It
do her good, she said, after her
to
master had been beating her,
woods and pray
to the
go away
to
into the fields or
Lord.
inquired of her whether there were no religious people
She mentioned as the only one, the woman

whom she had heard pray a number of
times
but she had never conversed with her.
I then told
her that there were many people in the world who had
in the place.
before spoken
of,
similar sentiments
hers
to
respecting
Her eyes sparkled on hearing

ened with eagerness while
respecting the
new
The
her as cold water
way
to a thirsty soul.
joy,
is
still
peared very anxious

not
all
with her master

I
present to
and
was about leaving
me
to
list-
my
were
imagination.
She ap-
was
go and converse and pray
to
pray
to
Her countenance, now

with tears, now lighted
be instructed herself; but this
to
she entreated
prayer.
she
of salvation through
truths of the Gospel
glowing with wonder, now suffused
up with
entered into some particulars
and the
birth
a crucified Redeemer.
God and
this intelligence
for
him when
alone.
When
her, never expecting to see her again
in this world, I exhorted her to continue in the exercise of
a submissive and forgiving spirit towards her master, and

into the hands of Him who judgeth rightencouraging her with the prospect of a speedy
release from all her sufferings, and that, in due season, if
to
commit herself
eously;
she persevered in well-doing, she would, through grace,
reap a rich reward in the kingdom of glory.
Never was
so fully convinced that the religion of
Christ consists very

ness.
The
much
in the spirit of love
native pride of the
in discerning
human
ill-treatment, violent
heart
is
and forgive-
quick-sighted
and unrelenting
in its
even of those who bear the

Christian name, and profess an assured hope of pardon from
resentments.
Too many,
alas,
FORGIVING AFRICAN.
know
their final Judge,
not
how
Such a
offence of a fellow- worm.
to
forget or
professor
be planted in the vineyard of the Lord
forgive an
may
appear
to
but his fruits are
Sodom and the clusters of Gomorrah.

This poor woman, often cruelly treated by the hands of
an unkind and unfeeling master, showed nothing like anger
the grapes of
While smarting under the wounds inflicted by

would retire beyond the sight and hearing
or revenge.
his cruelty, she
When
of mortals, to pray for his welfare.
speaking of the
conduct of her master, she did not dwell upon his faults
The ingenuousness of
with seeming pleasure and delight.
her love and compassion manifested
manner.
ent
Her
itself in
God showed
love to
a very
itself
differ-
secret,
in
persevering, and importunate prayer for her master
earnestly requesting
me
to
in
go and converse and pray with
him ; and in entreating me, with a countenance visibly

marked with sincerity and love, to pray for him when I was
alone.
Nothing did she appear to desire more than her
master's eternal welfare.
Such a spirit as this must be
religion
it
is
the very spirit of Christ
and
short of such a temper can be religion.

to talk
and pray
words
love our enemy, to do
all
ent and future well-being
It is
are light and airy things

in
our power
this requires
to
If not,
and conduct.
but to
grace indeed.
can you hope God
all
who have
will forgive
you
offences against him, in thought, in word,
Think of your
enemies, that
nothing
promote his pres-
Reader, have you from the heart forgiven

injured you
if so,
an easy thing
Think of
all
who
the love of Christ in dying for his
believe in
him may be saved.
Go
to
him, confessing your sins and trusting in his mercy. Hence-
forward
that,
let
love to
when weighed
God and
love to
man
reign in your heart,
in the balance of eternal truth,
not be found wanting the
meek and
you may
holy temper of this poor
slave.
PUBLISHED Br THE AMERICAN TRACT SOCIETY.
]o. 93.
THE
GREAT QUESTION ANSWERED
Then he called for a light, and sprang in, and came trembling, and
down before Paul and Silas and brought them out, and said. Sirs,
WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED ? And they said. Believe on the Lord
Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved* Acts 16 29-31.
fell
That
great
numbers of
people, even in this Christianized
country, are ignorant of the

to
be denied.
more than
if
way
of salvation,
they were in no danger of being
too evident
illiterate
people
lost,
or such a
Nor is this true

men who in all other
thing as salvation had never been heard
only of weak and
is
manifestly no part of their concern, any
It is
of.
concerns are wise, in these things have no knowledge or

sense
to
to direct
them.
The
evil, therefore,
simple ignorance, which, as far as
it
cannot be ascribed
goes, tends to excuse
but to being willingly ignorant, saying unto God, " Depart
from us
we
desire not the
knowledge of thy ways."
THE GREAT aUESTION ANSWERED.
God, however, has a witness in every man's conscience.
Every man, whatever he may

a sinner, and
pretend, feels himself to be
Ignorant and idolatrous
need forgiveness.
to
as the Philippian jailer had been
when
his life, yet,
all
death stared him in the face, he trembled and cried for

the heathen, much more
who have been educated
The most careless and
under the light of revelation.
The courof death.
approach
stand
the
cannot
thoughtless
him
fails
at that
commonly
infidel
hardened
most
age of the
And
mercy.
if
it
was thus with
likely to be thus with those
is it
solemn period.
Reader, are you one of the
think of these things
you
shall be clothed ?
scarcely ever
and whose chief concern
what you
shall eat,
many who
is,
what
and wherewithal you
shall drink,
Let the anxiety of a feeathen reprove
you.
If you were made only to eat and drink, arid enjoy life,
for a few years, and then to sink into nothing, you might
well throw aside every care, except that which respects
your present
But you are of an order of
gratification.
beings distinguished from
all
the dust
of the ground, and the breath of the Almighty.
you
but the introduction
is
which
will land
to
form
You
to
you on the shores of
doing
feel
voyage
You
your family, and
sort, all that is
things,
You may have

in
and
Your
but they are not
a portion in all that
your country, yea, and
done under the sun
are
an interest in
but you are not at home.
associate with these
associates for you.

in
eternity.
build houses, plant orchards, rear animals,
yourself a home
feelings
Life to
existence, a short
surrounded by a number of objects, and

each.
In
others in the creation.
your nature are united mortality and immortality
but this
is
in
fit
is
some
not sufficient
THE GREAT QUESTION ANSWERED.

for
The
you.
end
but you will
wreck of nature
Son of man
You
live.
still
and survive
itself,
at his
there will be an
and they will be as though they had
to all these things,
not been;
when
time dravveth nigh,
it
and stand before the
Can you
appearing and kingdom.
of these things, and be unconcerned
witness the
will
think
Or, though you be an immortal and accountable creature
you you
as your conscience tells
consult
whenever you
are,
and sometimes when you would gladly shut
it,
your ears against
it
yet, if
you had not sinned against your
A sinless
for alarm.
Maker, there would be no cause
proach of an assize, with

innocent
terrify the
But you are a
neither would judgment or eternity
sinner, a corrupt
placed, as
species,
may
evil
to
do
You,
but
we
for yourself,
are
so,
and that
it is
is
the equity of your Maker.
for refuge to
Whatever may be
you became a
sinner,
said as to the
and however you
yourself on that ground, your
own
what you are you choose
proaches you
for
being
so.
it?
Why
but
if so,
why
to be,
You may
do you
you might
But
manner
may
fly
this is not
wish
in
to
which
excuse
conscience bears witness,
a kind of hereditary disease, which

not a fault
your very
called a sinner, yet, if sin
were your misfortune, rather than your fault,
that
in
evil.
Or, though you be what
the case.
guiltless.
in return but love
for good.
conscious that you have done
nature
you were
branch of a corrupt stock.
say, a generous confidence in our
and required nothing
have returned him
ap-
solemn pomp, does not
its
the least degree of dread, if
inspire
God
all
crea-
The
ture has nothing to fear from a righteous 'God.
is
and occasionally
re-
speculate upon sin as
merely a misfortune,
feel guilt
on account of
do you not also acquit others of blame, where the
you
evil is directed against
You
when he
ing a fellow-creature,
do not think of excus-
any such
injures you, upon
grounds as you allege in excuse of transgression against

If he be rational,
God.
no further inquiry
him
and
you make
his offence voluntary,
any
but, without
hesitation,
pronounce
criminal.
Out of your own mouth,
The
inability that
you
your having no heart
to
do good,
It is
it.
you be judged.
therefore, shall
feel to
is
entirely
owing
to
of the same nature as that
who cannot seek his master's

You would not
blameless.
Nor will God hold you so.
of an unprincipled servant,
but
interest,
is
always defrauding him.
hold such a servant
You
are not destitute of those powers which render us ac-
countable beings, but merely of a heart
them
You
God.
for
not the knowledge of his
ways
but in his service you are as one that
news
use of
in conversation, but the
mention of serious religion strikes you
fond of
make
to
take pleasure in knowledge, but desire
dumb
in activity,
You
dead.
is
are
but that which angels announced, and the
Son of God came down
to publish,
gives
you no pleasure.
All these things prove, beyond a doubt, where the inability

lies.
Or, if sin should be allowed to be your
were a small
offence,
fault, yet, if it
an imperfection that might be over-
looked, or so slight a matter that
you could atone
for
by
it
repentance, or prayers, or tears, or any effort of your own,
But neither
there might be less reason for alarm.

the case.
If sin
made, how
is it
were so
light a matter as
and good God would curse

in
their
is
is
this
commonly
that a train of the most awful curses should
be denounced against the sinner?
store,
it
houses and
Is
it
possible, that a just
his creatures in basket

in
their fields, in
and
in
their lying

down, and
hands
to, for
overlooked
a mere
trifle,
light thing,
how
hensions
Above
all,
Son of God
to
sacrifice, to atone for
But
you
its
how
is
it
that
it
If
it
its
guilt,
for blood
whether you know
open
Their censures
rality,
but
which
fore,
but
my
Finally
but this
is
it
not the
to ap-
sin.
or not, a lost sinner, and
Men
judge of sin
looketh directly at the heart.
at the
well-being of society
the root of the mischief, and takes into con-
its
thou hast done
God
immediately
"Know
mischievous bearings.
and consider, that
and that
any more than the
only on particular branches of immo-
fall
strike
God views
sideration all
acts,
which
could have no influence what-
that in the strongest sense of the term.
only by
that
very performances by which you hope
are,
made a
to offer for
Were
pease the divine anger, are polluted with
You
be
to
you had the whole world
would be of no account.
murderer can atone
-those
it
is
an
evil thing
that thou hast departed
fear
is
sin
thou, therebitter that
from the living God,
not in thee, saith the
Though your
and
Lord of hosts."
be exceedingly offensive
your Creator, and though you can make no atonement

it,
yet, if
it ?
ever towards atoning for your past
case
to
it
should require the
it
become incarnate, and
offered ever so pure,
tears of a
and
to death,
way, on account of
be thus offensive to God, then are you in a
if sin
fearful situation.
your ransom,
that the Father of
it
wicked men die under such fearful appre-
is it that
eternal
is
mankind
all
the miseries that prepare
How
that they set their
or an imperfection that might be
mercies should have doomed

all
all
were a
If sin
and in
in their rising up,
you could
resist his
to
for
power, escape his hand, or
endure his wrath, your unconcern might admit of some kind

29
VOL. ni.
of apology.
Surely,
not resist his power
You may,
need not prove
to
you
you can-
that
your strength, when
is
hour of health and
in the
company with
in
what
tried ?
and when
festivity,
others like yourself, indulge your pride,
and boast great things
but
God touch you with
if
his
hand, your strength and your courage instantly
afflicting
forsake you.
And
you go on
will
thou escape his hand
provoke Omnipotence
to
Whither
wilt thou flee
tive to thy safety, the rocks could fall
tains cover thee, yet
the wrath of the

before,
and
Lamb.
laid his
from his Spirit
sitteth
Whither
thy bed in
hell, behold,
The only
Can
in the
wrath
day
to
And
wilt thou
go
from his presence
Or
there.
is
there
is
to hide thee
Whither
wilt thou flee
if
thou
make
question that remains
endure his displeasure.
hope
he
atten-
beset thee behind and
thee.
If thou ascend to heaven, he
Canst
If,,
upon the throne, and from
God hath
hand upon
on thee, or the moun-
would they not be able
from the face of him that
is,
whether thou canst
must surely be a
this
forlorn
thine heart endure, and thine hands be strong,

that he shall deal with thee
come.
If
it
were founded
Think of
the
in caprice or injustice,
supported by conscious innocence, you might possibly bear

it
but, should
resource.
justice of
you
you
perish,
will
be destitute of this
Conscience will eternally say
your
sufferings.
If
Amen
you had mere
to
the
justice done
you, unmixed with mercy, your sufferings would be more

tolerable than they will be
but
if
you
perish,
have your portion with Bethsaida and Chorazin.

gives an edge to justice.
merciful being
and
such
The
is
you must
Goodness
displeasure of a kind and
the wrath of the
Lamb
is
insupportable.

after
If,
having heard these truths, and lived in a coun-
where they are
try
you do not
fully declared,
by them, you have reason
to fear that
feel interested
God has given you up
hardness of heart, and that the language of the prophet
to
is fulfilled in
you
Go
"
unto this people, and say, Hearing,
ye shall hear, and not understand
and not perceive

and
and seeing, ye
for the heart of this people is
and
their ears are dull of hearing,
shall see,
waxed
gross,
have they
their eyes
closed, lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with
their ears,
and understand with
converted, and
and should be
their heart,
should heal them."
Remember
that, in
Old-Testament times, when God blessed his people Israel

with singular temporal blessings, he punished their transgressions mostly with temporal judgments;
we
of them
is
commonly punished with
But whether you

I will
declare unto you the
you.
"
God has
spiritual
that
judgments.
whether you
will hear, or
which was addressed

to
now
but
are favored with singular spiritual privileges, the neglect
will forbear,
only way of salvation.
to the Philippian jailer, is
That
addressed
so loved the world, as to give his only-
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not
have everlasting
perish, but
life."
He
hath given him not
only to teach us the good and the right way, but
a sacrifice
for sin,
and as such
suffered from the hands of

all
it
grief,
his
sword
to
his soul
awake
his
to
be made
be himself the way.
wicked men
pleased the Lord to bruise him.
and made
might turn
He
to
an offering
He
but this was not
He
for sin.
hath put him to
He commanded
against him, that through his death he
hand
in
hath set him forth
mercy towards perishing

to
be a propitiation
to
sinners.
declare his
righteousness, that he might be just, and the justifierof

that believeth in Jesus.
him
8
This
which
the only sacrifice
is
is
well-pleasing to God.
All that went before, were of no account but as they pointed

to
it
and
all
the prayers and praises of sinful creatures
are no otherwise acceptable than as presented through

not for
It is
ter, to
own
He
go about
to
that
it.
appease the divine displeas-
by any
the Saviour
efforts
but despairing of help from every other quar-
receive the atonement which Christ hath made.
you are
this
to
recommend yourself to
ure, or to
of your
you
invited,
To
and that in the most pressing terms.
made Him, who knew no sin, to be sin for us, that

be made the righteousness of God in him, hath
we might
on
ground committed
this
to his servants the
and they, as ambassadors
reconciliation;
for
ministry of
Christ,
as
though God did beseech you by them, pray you in Christ's

stead,
"Be ye
The
reconciled to God."
blessings of pardon, peace, and eternal
compared
to
life,
are
a feast, or marriage-supper, which the King of
heaven and earth hath made
for his
manded
forth, as to the
his servants to
go
Son
and he hath com-
highways and
hedges, and to invite without distinction; yea, to compel

to come
commanded to
them
your other
in.
Nor
is
this all
you are exhorted and
believe in Christ, on pain of damnation.
sins expose
you merely
to the
if persisted in, will
but the sin of unbelief,
All
curse of the law
expose you, like
the barren fig-tree, to the curse of the Saviour, from which

there
no redemption.
is
Say
from
not in thine heart, " All these things
my
You may
youth up."
have believed
indeed have been taught
them, and have received them as a tradition from your

fathers
tive.
but such faith
It is
the
same
is
dead, and consequently inopera-
as that of the
which our Saviour would not admit
Jews towards Moses,

to be faith.
" If ye
believed Moses, ye would believe me, for he wrote of

It is
no better than the
has less influence
you
But
it,
for
and
me."
some respects
in
they believe and tremble, whereas
believe and are at ease.

it
may
be you will say, "
am
and
tianity for myself,

it
faith of devils,
have examined Chris-
fully persuaded
has no effect upon you any more than

unless
be
it
alone.
you within the
to restrain
Your
decorum.
Believing in Christ
ease, casting
must
faith, therefore,
you disbelieved
limits of exterior
be dead, being
still
not the exercise of a
is
up the evidences
Yet
true."
it is
if
mind
at
and against, and then
for
coldly assenting, as in a question of science, to that side
which seems
to
have the greatest weight of
whose mind
is
subdued
indeed no want of evidence

ternal proofs, as from
but
own
its
it is
To one
proof.
obedience of
to the
faith,
there
much from
not so
intrinsic glory
is
ex-
and suitable-
ness to his case as a perishing sinner, that he feels himself
impelled to receive
The Gospel
it.
too interesting,
is
and has
ence on our past and future conduct,

feeling speculation.
It
own
To
believe
it,
is to
righteousness, and our
too
much
influ-
be an object of un-
" a hope set before us," which
is
none but those who are "ready

brace.
to
to
perish" will ever em-
renounce our
own
will,
and
own wisdom, our
to fall into the
arms
of mere grace, through the atoning blood of the cross.

the good
it
news of
salvation be not in this
signifies but little
tain
concerning
self,
there
is
it
for
where there
is
threatenings of
III.
God
blessing
stand in
all
enter-
no renunciation of
for justification;
no such dependence, there
interest in that important
VOL.
is
but
is
the
no revealed
curses and
their force against us.
29*
If
believed,
what speculative notions we may
no dependence upon Christ
and where there
manner
THE GREAT UUESTION ANSWERED.
10
PART
Had
the question proposed
to the first
it
II.
by the
been addressed
jailer
genius upon earth, unacquainted with the Gospel,
Had
could not have been answered.
the great philosophers of antiquity, one
among
the learned doctors
have resolved
to
it
been put
to all
by one, and
to all
it
the Jews, none of
any good purpose.
them could
Nor, amidst
all
the
boasted light of modern times, can a single unbeliever be
found
tion
who could know what
which
other of his
we
life
to
do with
Yet
it.
every man's mind,
arises in
at
it is
a ques-
one period or
and a question which must be resolved, or
are lost for ever.
Reader,
this
may have
important question
An
cupied your mind.
already oc-
alarming sermon, a death
in
may be,
awakened your attention. You
family, a hint from a
pressive dream, has
faithful friend, or,
take pleasure, as formerly, in worldly
it
company and
your
an imcannot
pursuits
You have left off

many religious duties,
can find no rest for your soul. The remembrance of
the prospect of the future may be more
past is bitter
The thought of God troubles you. You have even
yet you have no pleasure in religion.
many
but
the
so.
and have complied with
vices,
wished that you had never been born, or that you could now
shrink back into non-existence, or that you were any thing
rather than a
mortality
this
man.
You
are vain.
;
But you are aware
do exist
your nature
you must go forward and
holy Lord
God
that all these wishes

is
die,
stamped with imand stand before
If these, or such like exercises,
question of the Philippian jailer
is
occupy your mind, the
yours
and
to
you
let
me
address a few directions, included or implied in the answer.

by
If
this question
you mean, What can you do
to ap-
pease the wrath of God, or recommend yourself as a

object of his
mercy
What can you
fit
do as a good deed,
or the beginning of a course of good deeds, in reward of
which he
I
may
bestow upon you an interest in the Saviour
An
answer, Nothing.
are indeed given as a reward
have done, or can
and eternal
interest in Christ,
To
reward of the obedience of Christ unto death.
faith is in itself a holy exercise of the
him
that
of debt
justified,
worketh
is
it is
the
it is
of mere grace, and as such must be received.
which we are
we
but not of any thing
even with divine assistance
do,
life,
us
it is
Though
mind, yet, as that by

"
directly opposed to doing.
To
the reward not reckoned of grace, but
but to him that worketh not, but believeth on
him
that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteous-
He
ness."
of God, in
that worketh, seeks to obtain
some way
believeth, receives
let
me
it
or
to,
the state of
is
you must perish
think of doing any thing, call
it
way
but he that
And
mind you must
for ever.
So
far as
you
what you may, with a hope
of being pardoned and justified for

the only
as a free gift to the unworthy.
apprize you, that this
be brought
and the favor
life
or other, as a reward
its
sake, so far
you
reject
of salvation, and have reason to expect your
portion with unbelievers.
Let
me
deal freely with you.
situation.
The
ter not in,
it
answer given
Gospel-rest
will be
can with safety be given
rest in
first
is
you
to
and
you.
this is the
a most serious
you
en-
You know
the
and
if
only answer that
Consider, and beware, as
eternal salvation, that
nothing short of
But, in the
Yours
before
because of unbelief.
to the jailer
you regard your
is
you take up your
it.
place, let
me
declare unto you the Gos-
THE GREAT aUESTION ANSWTIRED.
12
which you are directed
pel of God,
your case
if,
rightly understood,
all
desires, as
is
the opinions of
my
men
as to
own, but direct you
only
accord with
it
shall not trouble
what the Gospel
you with
nor even with
is,
account given of
it
by
its
informs us what
it
is,
in
to the
The New Testament
Author.
if
undoubtedly does with your necessities,
it
and well forever.
well,
meet
approve
to your conscience, but your whole soul
your
If this
itself not
to believe.
it
such plain and pointed language, that he who runs

read
"
God
gave
so loved the world, that he
may
his only-be-
gotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not per-
" Moreover, brethren,
but have everlasting life."
ish,
declare unto you the Gospel which
ye have
which
also
which
also ye
received, and wherein ye stand
are saved, if ye keep in
how
first
of
all,
which
that
by
memory what
preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.

delivered unto you,
preached unto you,
For
I
I
also received,
that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures
and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day
according
" This
Scriptures."
to the
is
a truth of such importance as to have
Christian proverb
" and worthy of
sus Christ came into the world
"
chief."
We
to
preach Christ
a faithful saying,"
become a kind of
acceptation, that Je-
all
save sinners, of
"
criicijied.''
whom
am
determined
NOT TO KNOW ANY THING among you, save Jesus
Christ and
God
hath given
him
to
crucified.''^
us eternal
It is
life,
" This
and
not meant,
that there
is
is
the record,
that
this life is in his Son.'^
by these brief descriptions of the Gospel,
no other truth necessary
to
be believed, but that
the doctrine of the cross, properly embraced, includes all

others, or
The
draws
after
it
the belief of them.
import of this Gospel
is,
that
God
is
in the right,

and we are
punishment
wrong
in the
him without
;
we have
that
13
transgressed against
cause, and are justly exposed to everlasting
mercy, originating purely in himself,
that
re-
quired, for the due honor of his government, to be exercised
through the atonement of his beloved Son

sacrifice
God
is
he hath done, who belie veth

say you
all
and accept of any sinner, whatever
his perfections, pardon
What
that with this
well pleased, and can, consistently with
in
him.
The
to this ?
truth of
firmed by the most unquestionable proofs.
be spoken by the Lord himself, and
it
unto us by them that heard him
God
it
hath been con-
It first
began
to
has been confirmed

also bearing
them
The
witness with signs, and wonders, and divers miracles.
witness of the three in heaven, the Father, the Word, and

the
Holy Ghost,
given
to
this also
Spirit,
is
us eternal
is
borne
life,
to this
and
namely, that " God hath
this life is in his
to
directed the witness of the three on earth, the
Can you subscribe
and the Water, and the Blood.
to this great truth, in all its bearings,
of your soul upon

guilty, so helpless,
trine supposes 1
it
and
Is
it
or do
in so
receive forgiveness in that
mercy, are you content
and
rest the salvation
you doubt whether you be

dangerous a
so
state as this doc-
as one of the chief of sinners that
you view yourself; or does
if
Son ;" and
it
grate upon your feelings to
humble character ?
to stand
In suing for
on the same low ground as
you were a convict actually going
to
be executed
or
does your heart secretly pine after a salvation less humiliating, in
which some account might be made of
ence of character by which you

guished from the
in
vilest of
may have
men, and
in
some degree a cooperator with God
pleases God, please
you
that difier-
been
distin-
which you might be

?
Does
that
which
or does your mind revolt at
it ?
THE GREAT aUESTlON ANSWERED.
14
It
meets
your wants, but none of your prejudices, proud
all
thoughts, or vicious propensities
and be made a
these terms
am
your
sacrifice to
all
your soul
way
on
you peace.
will give
walk
in
and you shall
it,
not every thing
which prom-
It is at
it.
If this
attention.
our peril
it.
say again, as you regard your
you take up your
eternal salvation, that
rest
in
nothing
Particularly,
Beware of brooding over your
it
and any thing
consolation, and at yours to receive
Consider, and beware,
short of Christ
it is
it
ultimately afford
ises peace, that will
you other
but
your
your heart,
the good and the old
find rest for
to ofTer
subscribe to
peace of mind
to afford this, attracts
Gospel be believed with

is
Can you
well aware, that the great concern of persons in
situation, is to obtain
This
come down,
these must
which promises
it.
all
guilt in a
way of un-
and so of standing aloof from

Say not, " My sins have been too great,
believing despondence ;
the
hope of mercy.
too
numerous, or
"
too aggravated, to be forgiven."
of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth from all sinJ^
thou this
are not straitened in him, but in your
as your
ways
ways than your ways.
eth to our
On
believe
God he bestoweth abundant

thing, help me;"
to
all
things are possible to
dost thou doubt
save
Of his
to the uttermost all that
his willingness
isfy thee
Ought
on this head
your thoughts, and
the sinner that return-
"If thou canst do any

what
own
as the heavens are higher than the
earth, so are his thoughts higher than

his
blood
Believest
God's thoughts are not as your thoughts, nor his
bowels.
ways
You
The
him
pardon.
but,
It
is not,
"If thou canst
that believeth."
He
Of
is
able
come unto God by him.
Of
all-sufficiency
not his gracious invitations to sat-
Can you imagine
that he
would

proclaim, saying, "
me and
Whosoever
drink," and yet be reluctant to gratify the desires
of those that
come
him
to
Objections, on the ground of
may seem
the greatness of guilt and unworthiness,

the face of modesty and humility
you
but, after all,
mercy
heart to accept of
One
sees, in
you could
If
spirit.
moment.
in a
your very tears of despondency, a pining
God by something
acceptance with
" If
less
wicked,
this but
will not
had but somewhat
could go
I
might hope
making good
something like
to
recommend me
;
or, if I
And what
acceptance."
for
come unto me,
that
ye
may have
recommend you
no other than "going about
righteousness;" and while this
danger of your being given up
is
to
to
to the
had been
the complaint of our Saviour
longings after something to

are
to
him with assurance
to
Were
in yourself.
they put into words, they would amount
Saviour,
your
find in
as one of the chief of sinners, all
your objections would vanish
this
wear
to
becomes
it
consider whether they be any other than the work-
to
ings of a self-righteous
after
15
him come unto
thirsteth, let
life !"
to the
establish
"
is
Ye
Such
Saviour,
your own
the case, there
is
great
imagine that you find the
worthiness in yourself which your soul desireth.

2.
Beware of dwelling, in a way of self-complacency, on

which may have been produced by the power
those reformations
of conviction.
This
is
another of those workings of unbelief,
by which many have come

tering into rest.
There
is
short of believing, and so of en-
no doubt but your convictions
have driven you from the commission of grosser
vices,
and
probably have frightened you into a compliance with various religious duties
the branches of sin
but these are only the loppings off of
the root remains unmortified.
not the breaking off of your sins that will turn to
It
any
is
ac-
16
count, unless they be broken off hy righteousness ; and this
by believing
will not be the case but
of corruption
may have
from whence,
if
tion,
it
away
ble, that
Nay,
it is
very possi-
while the lusts of the fiesh have seemed
those of the mind, particularly spiritual pride,
ready increased in strength.
If,
draw comfort from them,
proof that
so
to
may
recede,
have
al-
you dwell on your
indeed,
reformations, and
it is
salva-
and sweep
forth with increased energy,
your fancied reformations.
all
strong holds,
its
you embrace not the Gospel- way of
come
will soon
The power
in Christ.
only retired into
it is
an undoubted
and then, instead of being reformed, or
nearer the kingdom of heaven than you were before, your

character
is
more
offensive to
and harlots are more likely
God than
to enter into
Besides, if your reformations
which they are

weighed
accepted.
loved, ere
yet, while
You
in
not,
his
ever.
it
were ever
sight
by
Publicans
than you.
so virtuous
whom
actions
are
you are an unbeliever, they cannot be
yourself must
any thing
that
you
first
offer
be accepted in the Be"
can be received.
It
does not consist with the honor of the majesty of the King
of heaven and earth, to accept of any thing from a con-
demned
malefactor,
holy law,
3.
till
that
condemned by
the justice of his
own
condemnation be removed."
Beware of deriving comfort from
the distress
of mind
wh'ch you may have undergone, or from any feelings within
Some
you.
religious people will tell you, that these
work-
God has mercy in reserve for

you go on in the way you are in, waiting
ings of mind are a sign that
you
and
that, if
as at the pool,
all will
guage requires great

distressed in
mind
but the issue of
it.
be well in the end

qualification.
that will prove
It
is
but such lan-
not your being
any thing
in
your favor,
Saul was distressed, as well as David
THE GREAT QUESTIOX ANSWERED.
When
and Judas, as well as Peter.
Lord were pricked
unhappiness as a hopeful
this their
but exhorted them to repent, and he
name of Jesus
baptized every one of them in the

the remission
And
Christ,
for
sins.
of
thus
the murderers of our
in their hearts, Peter did not comfort
them by representing
sign of conversion
17
was with Paul and
it
was impressed with
fear
Silas,
and dismay
when
the jailer
they gave him no
encouragement from thence, but preached Jesus Christ as

the only source of hope.
who had
If one
slain a
man
in
Israel, had stopped short of the city of refuge, and endeav-
ored
draw comfort from
to
the alarm
felt,
avenger of blood should overtake him, would he
lest the
have been safe
man, but
There
in fleeing
no security
is
immediately
to the
laying hold of the hope set before you.

fort
which he had
from your
stopping
short
Many, no
distress,
of Christ,
you are
in
to
you or
any
If
you take com-
imminent danger of
and so of perishing
doubt, have done so
to
Gospel-refuge, and
for
ever.
and that which they have
accounted waiting at the pool for the moving of the waters,

has proved no other than settling upon a false foundation.
Indeed,
it
must needs be so
for as there is
one that has heard the Gospel, between
faith
no medium, in
and unbelief,
he that does not believe in Jesus for salvation, if he have
any hope of
it,
must derive that hope from something in
himself.
4. Beware of considering faith itself the meritorious
ground of acceptance with God. It is true, that believing is
Far be
an act of yours, and an act of obedience to God.
it
from
me
that
should convey an idea of any thing short
of a cordial reception of the Gospel being accompanied with

salvation
voL.
III.
a reception that involves a renunciation of
30
seif-
THE GREAT. QUESTION ANSWERED.
18
righteousness, and a submission to the righteousness of God.
But
you consider
if
as a species of sincere obedience,
it
which God has consented

and
you hope
if
"going about
to establish
an evangelical name.
that
of a perfect one
to accept, instead
be justified in reward of
to
the
is
commandment
ye believe on the name of his Son.

it
you are
still
your own righteousness" under
This
obedience to God, yet
it,
Faith
not as such that
is
is
of God,
an act of
justifies us,
it
but as receiving Christ, and bringing us into a living union
we
with him, ybr ivhose sake alone
Finally
Beware of taking comfort from any
unfounded persuasion
that
Many
and mistake such a persuasion
for
is
driven from
impulse, or
your sins are forgiven, and that
you are a favorite of God.
sinner
are accepted and saved.
all his
are deceived in this way,
for faith itself.
former holds,
is
it
When
not unusual
him, instead of falling at the feet of Christ as utterly

catch at any
lost, to
absurd, if
it
new
however unscriptural and
conceit,
will but afford
him
relief.
If,
in
such a
state
of mind, he receives an impression, perhaps in the words
God has
of Scripture, that
dreams
that he
sermon favorable
to
forgiven and accepted him, or
heaven, or reads a book, or hears a
in
is
such a method of obtaining
and becomes
eagerly imbibes
it,
cious draught.
The joy
relief,
he
intoxicated with the deli-
of hope, being so
new and unex-
pected a thing, and succeeding to great darkness and distress,
produces a wonderful change
in his
he has discovered the light of
life,
lost his
and
all
lief, is
Now
burden.
mind.
and
Now
feels as
he thinks
one that has
he has found out the true religion;
that he read or heard before, not affording
false doctrine, or legal preaching.
as one of the dear children of

description, he
is
attached
God by
to his
him
Being treated
others of the
flatterers,
re-
also
same
and despises
who would
those as graceless
warning him against " the
suddenly
to the
say that
to
all
not the
manner
which we obtain
in
is that
it
trine of the cross, or
his right
is
is
but if
delusive.
relief, that is
comforts us.
If
it
of any
be the docto
it,
this
be a supposed revelation
it
from heaven of something which

tures, that
hand."
which comes
any revealed truth pertaining
Gospel consolation
is
not taught in the Scrip-
a species of comfort on which no dependence
can be placed.
away with
carried
is in
consolation
mind, or by the impression of a passage of
account, but lohat
is
rob him of his comforts, by
which
any more than by reading, or hearing,
Scripture,
It is
mean
do not
lie
19
believer
it
may be so far misled, as to

man have nothing better,
but, if a
be
he
an unbeliever.
is still
you obtain
If ever
the light,
it
must
that rest for
be, not
your soul which
will
bear
from any thing within you, but by
looking out of yourself to Christ, as revealed in the Gospel.
You may
afterwards
unto
by the love you bear to the brethren, and by many
life,
know
other Scriptural evidences
that
you have passed from death
and from the time of your em-
bracing the Gospel-remedy, you
may
be conscious of
so enjoy the hope of the promised salvation

relief, if it
it,
but your
and
first
be genuine, will be drawn directly from Christ, or
from finding that in the doctrine of salvation through his death,
which
suits
your wants and wishes as a perishing sinner.
Having thus warned you against

shall conclude with a
the good and the right
To
as he
believe in the
is
certain by-paths,
few additional directions concerning
way.
Lord Jesus
revealed in the Gospel.
with, or for the sake of
Christ, is to receive
Christ
is
whom, he bestows
God's
all
him
first gift,
others
and
20
Christ,
and with him
Christ,
and with him
"
He
things
all
that liaih the Son, hath life
We
life."
and he that hath not the
must receive him as
which he was given, which was
propitiation
for sin, that
who
poor ungodly sinners

in
it.
things freely,
all
Son of God, hath not

for
If God first give

we must first receive
freely.
Hence it is said,
him corresponds with
believing in
him as the
sole
that
be a sacrifice, or
be just in justifying
We
believe in him.
must
ground of hope, and plead
for
trust
pardon
Receiving Christ as by a marriage-
only in his name.

covenant,
God might
to
we become
one with him, and so are interested
in all that he hath done and suffered on earth, and in all

that he
is
now doing
at the right
But though believing
him
as the
way
of acceptance with God, yet,
receive
him
him
your King.
for
as
your atoning
and heavy-laden,
his
Priest,
When you
for rest,
you
faith
which
alone, but
when you
will also receive
" come " to him, as guilty
his
" take
same time
meek and lowly spirit."
are justified by faith alone, yet
is
obedience.
you
will at the
yoke upon you," and " learn
Though we
hand of God.
in Christ has a special respect to
it
is
by a
not
which contains the seeds of universal
In one view, namely, as receiving the Saviour,
and uniting us
to
him,
it
justijieth ; in
as including the principles of a holy
another view, namely,

life, it sanctijieth.
In this way, reader, you will find rest for your soul.
your journey
to do,
by a
much
life
to the
to oppose, and,
will find strength equal to

ant, temptations will
present
it
of faith on him in
life
will
weight of glory.
may be, much

whom you first
your day.
to suffer
believed,
far
but
you
Duties will be pleas-
be overcome, and the sufferings of
work a
In
much
heavenly world, you will have
more exceeding and
this
eternal
No. 94.
THE
NON-CONFORMIST'S RELEASE.
AN AUTHENTIC NARRATIVE.
The
late
Thomas Bradbury
dined one day at the house
of Mrs. Tooly, an eminent Christian lady in London,
who
was distinguished for love to Christ and his people. Mr.

Timothy Rogers, who wrote the book on religious melancholy,
and after dinner entertained Mrs.
dined there the same day
Tooly and Mr. Bradbury with some stories concerning his
father, who was one of the ejected ministers in the year 1662,
;
and the sulTerings he endured for his non-conformity. Mr.

Rogers particularly related one anecdote that he had often
heard his father tell with much pleasure, concerning a deliverance which he had from being sent to prison.
He lived near the house of Sir Richard Cradock, a justice of the peace, and a violent hater and persecutor of the
dissenters ; who sought to distress them by all the means
which the severe laws then in being put in his power, parby enforcing the law against conventicles. He
bore a particular hatred to Mr. Rogers, and wished to have
him in his power ; and hearing that he was to preach some
miles distant, he hired two men to go as spies, to take the
names of all the hearers they knew, and witness against Mr.
Rogers and them. The thing succeeded to his wish they
brought the names of several persons and Sir Richard
warned such of them as he owed particular spite, and Mr.
ticularly
Accordingly they all came

Rogers, to appear before him.
with trembling hearts, expecting the worst; for they knew
man.
While they were in his
the violence of the
there
came
hall,
expecting to be called upon,
in a little girl, a grandchild of Sir Richard's,
She looked at Mr. Rogers,

about six or seven years of age.
and was much taken with his venerable appearance ; and
he being fond of children, took her on his knee, and made a
At last Sir
great deal of her ; and she was fond of him.
VOL.
III.
30*
THE NON-CONFORMIST'S RELEASE.
Richard sent one of
his servants to inform the
company,
that
one of the witnesses had fallen sick, and could not be present
that day, and therefore warned them anew to come on another
named to them.
Accordingly they came ; and the crime, as the justice
day, which he
called
it,
was proved. He ordered their mittimus to be

them all to jail. Mr. Rogers, before he
written, to send
came, expecting to see the little girl again, had brought

some sweetmeats to give her ; and he was not disappointed ;
for she came running to him, and was fonder of him than
was
day
She was, it seems, a particular

and had got such an ascendency
She was withal
over him that he could deny her nothing.
a child of a violent spirit, and could bear no contradiction,
Once, when she was
as she was indulged in every thing.
she
the
before.
favorite of her grandfather's,
contradicted in something, she ran a penknife into her arm,
had near cost her her life. After which Sir Richard
would not suffer her to be contradicted in any thing.
While she was sitting on Mr. Rogers' knee, and eating
the sweetmeats which he gave her, she looked wishfully on
him, and said, "What are you here for, sir?" He answered, " I believe your grandfather is going to send me,
and my friends whom you see here, to jail." "To jail!"
said she ; " why, what have you done ?" " Why, I did nothing but preach at such a place
and they did nothing but
hear me." " But," said she, " my grandpapa shant send
you to jail." "Ay, but, my dear," said he, "I believe he
that
is
now making
out our mittimus to send us
all
there."
She ran immediately to the chamber where her grandfather was, and knocked with her head and heels till she got
in, and said, " What are you going to do with my good old
gentleman here in the hall ?" " That's nothing to you," said
" But I
her grandfather ; " get you about your business."
wont," said she j " he tells me that you are going to send
him and his friends to jail ; and if you send them, I'll drown
myself in the pond as soon as they are gone ; I will, indeed,"
When he saw the girl was resolute and peremptory, it shook
him, and overcame the wicked design lie had formed to per-
THE NON-CONFORMIST'S RELEASE.
He stepped into the hall,

with the mittimus in his hand, and said, " I had here made
out your mittimus to send you all to jail, as you deserve :
secute the servants of the Lord.
but at
and
my
set
grandchild's request,
you
They
I fall
from the prosecution,
all at liberty."
all
bowed, and thanked his worship.
But Mr.
Rogers, approaching the child, laid his hand upon her head,
and lifting his eyes to heaven, said, " God bless you, my dear
of that God whose cause you did

know him not, be upon you in life,
And then he and his
at death, and throughout eternity.'^
child;
may
the blessing
flead, tliough as yet you
friends
went away.
Mrs. Tooly listened with attention

looking on Mr. Rogers, said, "
And
to
the story
and
are you that Mr. Rogers'
son?" "Yes, madam," answered he, "I am." "Well,"

said she, " I am the girl your dear father blessed in the manner you have now related. It made an impression on me
I could never forget."
Upon this double discovery, Mr.
Rogers and Mrs. Tooly found they had a superadded tie of
love and affection.
In answer to inquiries, she proceeded to
relate, that after her grandfather's death, she was left sole
heiress of his estate; and being in the bloom of youth, with
none to control her, she ran after all the fashionable diversions of the time without restraint.
But at the end of them
all,
she found a dissatisfaction that struck a
damp
to
her
which she did not know how to get rid of, but by
running the same fruitless round over and over again.
She contracted some slight illness, upon which she
thought she would go to Bath, hearing that that was a place
heart,
When
for pleasure, as well as health.
was
she
came there, she

who was a
led in providence to consult an apothecary,
worthy, religious man.
Doctor," said she, "
He inquired what she ailed. " Why,

ail much as to my body
but I
don't
have an uneasy mind, that
can't get rid of."
Miss," said he, " I was so too, till

" Books !" said she
" Truly,
met with a book that cured

"I get all the books I can
lay my hand on, all plays, novels, and romances I can hear
of; but, after I have read them, my uneasiness is the same."
me of it."
THE
4
"
That may
non-co:n'formist's relea.se.
be, Miss," said he, " I don't
wonder at it. But

can say of it what I can say of no
other I ever read.
but can
I am never tired of reading it
begin to read it again, as if I never had read it before. And
"Pray, Doctor," said
I always see something new in it.'"'
she, " what book is that ?" " Nay, Miss," answered he, " that
" But could not I get
is a secret I don't tell to every one."
a sight of that book ?" said she. " Yes, Miss," said he, " if
Pray get it me then,
you wish, I can help you to it."
" Yes,"
Doctor, and I'll give you any thing you please."
said he, " if you will promise one thing, I'll bring it you
and that is, that you will read it over carefully ; and if you
this
book
speak
of, I
''
should not see
much
ond reading."
She promised
in
it
at first, that
When
she looked on
it
it,
her.
will give
And
faithfully she would.
raising her curiosity he gave
ment.
you
It
it
a sec-
after further
New
was a
she said with a
flirt,
Testa" Poh,
" Why, Miss, so you might,"

could get that any time."
" but remember, I have your solemn
;
replied the Doctor
promise that you will read
it
Accordingly, she began
carefully."
to
read
it
and
it
soon attracted
She saw something in it which she had a deep

concern in, and became more uneasy than before. She
went back to London, for diversion but all was in vain.
She lodged at the court end of the town, and one Sabbath
went out with a friend to attend public worship, when, after
passing several churches, they were providentially led into
Mrs. Tooly's attention was much excited
the Old Jewry.
by the solemn manner of Mr. Shower, who was then the
minister
and when he rose to pray, she was deeply affected.
Having finished prayer, he took for his text. Psalm
116:7, ^^ Return unto thy rest, O my soul ; for the Lord
her attention.
hath dealt hountifully with thee.^'
In the hearing of this
sermon, God manifested himself
her in mercy
obtained,
soul, in
what she
to
in vain sought for elsewhere
Him who is
the
life
and she
rest to
and happiness of souls.
her
95.
]\o.
I0 OR lEYER.
BY REV. RICHARD BAXTER.
WHATSOEVER THY HAND FINDETH TO
MIGHT."ECCL.
Who
knoweth not
which once was,
come
DO
DO,
IT
WITH THY
10.
that time cannot be recalled
no more.
will be
To-day
again.
You may work
passing, and
is
That
Yesterday will never

not
will
return.
your candle burneth,
when you have lost

While
return for you to work in.
you may make use 'of its light; but
when
is
that day,
will
it
done,
is
it
while
not
it
day
is
it
too late
medicine, no orator's elegant
but
to
use
No
it.
force of
persuasions, no worldling's
wealth, no prince's power, can call back one day or hour
when extremity hath taught men
used,
now
what endeavors would there be
If they could,
of time.
despise
What
to
value what they
bargaining would there be
time could be purchased for any thing that
this will
give for one day's time of repentance more."
lords
say, "
and knights would lay down their honors, and
Take
all,
and
let
us be beggars,
one year of the time that

lay
give
misers would bring out their wealth, and say, " All
Then
And
at last, if
man can
down
their
we
if
misspent."
we may have but

Then kings would
crowns and say, " Let us be equal with the
lowest subjects, so
we may
but have the time again that
wasted in the cares and pleasures of the world."
would then seem a contemptible price
for
we
Kingdoms
recovery
the
of time.
The
time that
is
now
idled
and talked away
the time
NOW OR
2
that is
now
NEVER.
away
away how
presumptuously sinned
day seem
away
feasted and complimented
necessarily sported and slept
to all
The most
that is un-
wickedly and
that is
precious will
it
one
proflme mariner
an end.
his time is at
falls
when he
a praying
If importunity
would then
fears
prevail,
how
earnestly would they pray for the recovery of time,
that
formerly
praying
derided
death teach the
trifling,
What
a liturgy would
time-despising gallant
the idle,
busy, dreaming, active, ambitious, covetous lovers of this

world, if time could be entreated to return
would they pour out
ately then
" O, that
we might
How
passion-
their requests
see the days of hope, and means,
and mercy, which once we saw, and would not see
we had
that
prayers, and hoty preparations for an endless
we
O,
those days to spend in penitential tears and

life,
which
spent at cards, in needless recreations, in idle talk, in
humoring
others, in the pleasing
of our
flesh,
inordinate cares and business of the world
youthful vigor
might return
renewed
that
the
that
ministers
recalled
licly
that
or in the
O, that our
our years might be
days we spent in vanity might be
might again be sent
to
us pub-
and privately, with the message of grace which we
once made light of! that the sun would once more shine
upon us
and that patience and mercy would once more

!"'
reassume their work
If cries or tears, or price or pains,

lost,
abused time,
how happy were
would bring back
now
the
dreaming, dead-hearted, and impenitent world

then serve their turn
us of your
oil,
for
to
say
when
the door
would be saved as well as the wise.

this is
distracted,
If
it
to the vigilant believers,
our lamps are gone out;"
" Lord, Lord, open to us,"
of salvation !"
But
would
" Give
or to cry,
shut, the foolish
is
this is " the
"the accepted time."
While
day
it
is
;!
NOW OR
NEVER.
Jj
Christ
Awake,
harden not your heart.
called to-day, hearken, and
thou that sleepest, and use the light that
afforded thee
is
by
or else the everlasting utter darkness will shortly
end thy time and hope.
One
life is
appointed us on earth, to despatch the work
on which our everlasting
Lose
but one.
may
that,
ended,
for ever
lost
is
it
shall be so
now preparing
earth
your
won or lost
mend what
life is
for
to
There
is
from
shall rise
the
that
life
but never to such a
now you
when this
life
you
as this on
as the fighting of a battle that
at once.
must be
no coming hither again
to
Oversights must be presently
done amiss.
is
and
have
shall
:
but
You
no more.
indeed, to judgment,
the dead,
are
all
hear, and read, and learn, and pray
life is
we
depends, and
life
and
corrected by repentance, or else they are everlastingly past
remedy.
Now,
find that
if
if you be not truly converted, you may be ; if you

you are carnal and miserable, you may be healed
you are an enemy, you may be reconciled to God but

the thread of life is cut, your opportunities are
;
when once
at
Now, you may
an end.
inquire of your friends and
teachers what you must do to be saved
and you
receive particular instructions and exhortations, and
may
them
bless
But when
of your soul.
O, then,
to the illuminating,
if
tried with the
would
be
brought
any
it
life is past, it
means of
How welcome
Had
will be so
no more.
cries procure
it
life,
what joyful
tidings
would be the messenger
such an
hell but
offer as this,
from their righteous Judge,
change would be among them
How
that
and would
what a
importunately would
they cry to God, " O, send us once again
Once more
God
renewing, and saving
departed souls might but return, and once
more be
it
may
to the earth
let us see the face of mercy, and hear the offers
of Christ and of salvation
Once more
let
ministers offer
NOW OR
NEVER.
US their help, and teach, in season and out of season, in
we
public and in private, and
more
exhortations no
we
away from us no more.
Once more
and ordinances, and try whether we

and use them better than
we
company of thy
the help and
us have thy word
will not believe them,
Once more
did.
saints,
let
and drive them
and we
let
us have
will scorn them,
and abuse them, and persecute them no more.
O,
for the
mercy of such a life as once we had

us once more with such a life, and see whether we
great invaluable
try
and
will refuse their help
will hate them,
O,
will
not contemn the world and close with Christ, and live as
strictly,
abused
and pray as earnestly, as those that we hated and

for so doing
O, that
we might once more
be ad-
mitted into the holy assemblies, and have the Lord's day to
spend in the business of our salvation
We
would plead
no more against the power and purity of the ordinances
we would no more
that spend
in
it
call that
works of
day a burden, nor hate them
holiness, nor plead for the liberty
of the flesh therein."
He
that
would have Lazarus sent from the dead
warn
to
on earth, no doubt would have
his unbelieving brethren
strongly purposed himself on a reformation, if he might
once more have been tried
have begged
of water
with, "
for
such a
and how earnestly would he
trial, that
begged so hard
drop
for a
But, alas, such mouths must be stopped for ever
Remember
that thou, in thy lifetime, receivedst thy
good things."
"
It is
appointed unto
the judgment."
There
is
men once
to die,
no return
but after this
to earth
again
places of your abode, employment, and delight, shall
you no more.
You must see the faces

men no more.
converse in flesh with
the
know
of your friends, and
This world, those
houses, that wealth and honor, as to any fruition, must be to
you
as if
you had never known them.
NOW OR
NEVER.
You must assemble here but a little while. Yet a

and we must preach, and you hear the Gospel
little
longer,
no more
tation
That therefore which you
for ever.
must presently be done, or

will repent
and believe,
will be too late.
it
must be now.
it
be converted and sanctified,
pardoned and reconciled
If ever
you
will reign,
now
is
it
to
God,
that
it
will do,
If ever
you
you
will
If ever
must be now.
it
will be
invi-
If ever you
must be now.
you must
fight
and
" O, that you were wise, that you understood
conquer.
you would consider your
this, that
you would
those words sink
let
latter
down
into
And
!"
end
your
heart,
that
which
came from
the heart of the Redeemer, as was witnessed by

"If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this
thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace but now
his tears:
they are hid from thine eyes."'
There
is
no doing
hell are for other
work
this
work.
The
seed-time, and the labor of the
you must sow, and hereafter

that
hereafter.
husbandman.
that
you must work, and then
Heaven and
harvest doth presuppose the
you must
that
It is
reap.
now
that
It is
now
you must receive your
wages.
this
Is
believed
and
by the thoughtless
considered
men that must live

Do you work as men that must work no
more, and pray as men that must pray no more, when once
the time of work is ended ?
What thinkest thou ? Will
God command the sun to stand still while thou rebellest or
world
Alas
here no more
forgettest thy
do you live here as
work and him ?
Dost thou expect he should
pervert the course of nature, and continue the spring and

seed-time,
age, and
till
thou hast a mind to sow
make
thee
young
Will he renew thy
again, and call back the hours
that thou hast prodigally wasted on thy lusts
Canst thou look for
this at the
and Scripture assure thee of the contrary

VOL.
III.
and idleness
hand of God, when nature
31
If not,
why
NOW OR
NEVER.
hast thou not yet done with thy beloved sins
thou not yet begun to live

thy soul
unrenewed, and
is
judgment
verted in the grave and hell

holiness
that
hell
hast
while
or wilt thou be saved without
God, who hath resolved
it
and hear the Lord, before the grave and
live,
have shut
mouths upon you
their
hearing be too late
Hear now,
Why
still,
O, ye sons of sleep, of death, of darkness,
shall not be.
awake, and
thou
Wilt thou hear and be con-
in despite of
is,
sittest
thy preparation for death and
all
made
yet to be
is
Why
Hear now,
you have ears
if
Look about you, and see
you
if
Hear now,
lest
will ever hear.
to hear.
ivhat
you have
and do
to do,
it
with your anight.

1.
Trifle not, but do
it
presently, without unnecessary
delay.
2.
Do
it
resolutely
suspense, as if
thou shouldst do
3.
Do
remain not doubtful, unresolved,
or not.
it
with thy most awakened affections, and the
it
serious intention of the powers of thy soul.
most unsuitable
insensibility are
4.
Do
with
it
all
may show
necessary forecast and contrivance
regardless of his
to the
5.
gence.
ful,
it
work
and with such a care as

is
is
suited
necessary
it.
not slothfully, but vigorously, and with
dili-
" Hide not thy hand in thy
and say
ligent,
but with such a care
and nature of the thing, and
due accomplishment of
Do
you despise not your Master, and are not
that
to the difficulties
Sleepiness and
such works.
to
not with a distracting, hindering care

as
in
were yet a question with thee whether
it
not, "
and the
There
is
a lion
bosom" with the slothin the way."

The neg-
vicious, the waster
but as one brother from another.

the wilful ungodly, so also
and the
As
slothful, differ
the self-murder of
"the desire of the
slothful killeth
NOW OR
him, because his hands refuse
NEVER.
to
^
"
labor."
The
soul of the
sluggard desireth and hath nothing; but the soul of the

diligent shall be
made
but be " fervent in
Do
6.
it
Be
fat."
not slothful in business,
serving the Lord."
spirit,
with constancy, and not with destructive pauses
and intermissions, or with weariness and turning back.

"
The
righteous shall hold on his way, and he that

"
clean hands shall be stronger and stronger."
Be
is
of
stead-
unmovable, always abounding in the work of the
fast,
much
Lord, for as
as
due season we
you know that your labor is

not weary in well-doing;
not in
"Be
vain in the Lord."
shall reap if
we
for in
faint not."
Apply these quickening precepts to all the duties of

Christian course.
Be religious in good earnest, if
you would be found such when you look for the reward.
the
"
Work
your salvation with
out
" Strive
to
to enter,
and
fear
enter in at the strait gate
for
trembling."
many
shall seek
Many run, but

you may obtain.
and shall not be able."
ceive the prize
so
run that
few
re-
" If the
righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and

sinner appear?"
Let the doting world deride your
gence, and set themselves to hinder and
be but a
little
and
lose
talk differently.
no time.
words, nor any thing that

sit
down, or stop you
in a
Please God, though
will
be
journey of such importance.
flesh,
and
friends,
No power
can save you from
none can deprive you of

:
dili-
it
Follow Christ fully
Obey God, though
sary
The Judge is coming. Let not

man can do, prevail with you to
should be displeased.
bid you.
you
while before experience change their minds,
and make them

diligent
afflict
his reward.
and
all
all
the world
the world for-
his justice
One
thing
is
and
neces-
do that with speed, and care, and diligence, or you
are lost for ever.
They
and earnest praying,
that are
now
against your
will themselves shortly
much
cry as loud in
NOW OR
When
vain.
it is
too late,
how
mercy, that now deride you

time
But " then they
answer
for that
NEVER.
fervently will they beg for
for
valuing and seeking
shall call
upon God, but he
in
it
will not
they shall seek him early, but shall not find him
they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear
of the Lord
they would none of his counsel, but despised
all his reproof."'
Up, therefore, and work with
all
Let un-
thy might.
know not that the righteous God stands

oxer them, and know not that they are now to work for eterLet
nity, and know not that heaven or hell is at the end.
them delay, and laugh, and play, and dream away their
time, that are drunk with prosperity, and mad with fleshly
believers
lusts
trifle,
that
and pleasures, and have
reason in the cares,
lost their
But
and delusions, and vain-glory of the world.

be so with thee, whose eyes are opened,
the heaven, the hell,
things
Wilt thou
the night cometh,
your mind
If
God and your

stir
up
dark
then while
it is
lie
Shall
as
still
day, " for
when none can work."

is
and you are forgetting your
sluggish,
latter end,
-iôur
Work
and you do your duty as

will
as unlikely
Shall the living
live as Satan's slaves ?
it
God,
awake, as they that are asleep
lie
and useless as the dead
shall
seest the
which they do but hear of
in the daylight as they do in the
Wilt thou do
freemen
who
and religion seems a

if
were
it
lifeless thing,
in vain, or against
your
soul with the urgency of such questions as
these
Question
gave
me
duties and
trial
what
all
my
I
1.
Can
who
sins ?
can do
do no more than
deserveth
When
for his
all
who
he puts
me
this for
seeth
God, who
me
in
my
purposely on the
sake and service, can
do no
Can I love him no more, and obey, and watch, and

work no more ?
more
NOW OR
for
NEVER.
Question 2. Can I do no more than this

him that did so much for me that obeyed
for Christ
walked
meekly
so
me
eth
glory
despising
riches of the world
Are
the baits, and honors, and
me
to the
death
and would bring
freely all his benefits,
all
that loved
so perfectly
me
and
offer-
to eternal
these careless, cold, and dull endeavors,
mercy ?
Can I do no more, when my
my
best return for all his
Question
the prize
know
3.
when
beforehand, and
this
what
Scriptures,
gent, and
heaven or
hell
may
house were on
in danger, than
Question
when they
livered
my
4.
is,
Question
and
Can
my
deliverance
Question
Can
5.
am
haste,
not do more,
it
or friend were
life,
my
neighbor,
do no more for the church of
for the
Can
6.
when
peace and welfare of the na-
in suppressing sin
in
works of public
praying
benefit
for
do no more, that have loitered so
faster, that
diligence
God
is
have
slept
till
the evening of
the one certain evidence of
my
Question
I
Could
do no more for the souls of men,
or in promoting
no
long, and go
repentance
Holy
will be for ever, in heav-
love and compassion to
and our posterity
days,
my estate, or
my salvation ?
do for
for the public good
my
see, in the glass of the
or
fire,
servant, friend, or child
tion,
is
when
are undone for ever, if they be not speedily deIs this
it
prepared for the diligent and the negli-
is
what work there
en andv hell on these accounts
my
salvation
depends upon
doing
7.
my
and how
Can
last
know
do no more, that
that see
how
fast
must be quickly gone
my
that
not
now
but
time makes
know
it
must
be now or never ?
Question 8. Can I do no better, when I know

hand what a vexatious and heart-disquieting thing
before-
then be, to look back on time as irrecoverably

31*
VOL. III.
and on
lost,
it
will
NOW OR
jQ
a
of
life
as spent in vanity, while
trial
undone?
lived for, lay
Shall
such tormenting thoughts
Can
preterred
my
Can
when
than
Question
it
my
me
that
have health
me
can-
be
to
Could
11.
that
Who
do no more,
me
should go with
my
servant, or
much
enable me, or
to
have such a Masless
is
excusable
I ?
ever
for
know
may
it
if I
were sure
that
that according to this
or if the soul of
my
neighbor, must speed for ever, as
endeavors speed with them
For aught
Alas
sure
encouraging me, and
salvation lay on this one duty
my
prepare
nothing else
is
sorts
all
such a work, such a reward
for neglect
prayer,
am
we
that
do no more, that have so
remind and excite
affliction to
child,
trifling,
awakened conscience
do no more,
have mercies of
that
creatures attending
ter,
work
tlie
now, by
Question 10.
help
my
foi'
Question
do too much, and am sure there
9.
not
NEVER.
now
for their conversion ?
be thus.
nothing but intoxicating prosperity, and sens-
it is
make you think

make you think contemp-
ual delights, and worldly diversions, that
well of ungodly slothfulness, and
tuously of a heavenly
Methinks
life.
even see how you
against yourself, and tear
grace prevent
too late,
not
it
how you
grace you
lost,
safe repentance
lived on earth, and
and
foolishly as you.
by a
will
passionately rage
your heart with self-revenge
vilified all that
when you
if
think,
what golden times of
would not
O, how will you wonder
lose
them
as
at yourself, that
ever you could be so blind and senseless, as
to be
no more
warnings of the Lord, and with the forethoughts of everlasting joy and misery
To have but one
affected with the
small part of time to do

for eternity,
own
and say
all
all
that ever
that ever
must be done by you
you must
say, for your
or others' souls, and to have spent this in worse than
NOW OR
To have
nothing!
must run the race
NEVER.
l\
but one uncertain
that
in
life,
wins or loses heaven
for
which you
ever
and
you should be tempted with a thing of nought to lose

one irrecoverable opportunity, and to sit still or run
that
that
another way,
with
all
when you should have been making
your might
O, the thoughts of
haste
this will give
you
That you had
unutterable anguish in the day of judgment.
a time in which you might have prayed, with promise of
acceptance, and had no heart to take that time
That
you as well as to them that entertained

him; that you were called on, and warned, as well as they,
That life and
but obstinately despised and neglected all
Christ
was
offered to
death were set before you, and everlasting joys were offered
your choice, and you might have freely had them if you
wôuld, and were told that lioliness was the only way, and
to
that
must be now or never ; and yet
it
own
destruction
These thoughts
you chose your
that
will be part of hell to
the ungodly.
Come away,
then, from the snares of sinners, and the
company of deceived, hardened men. Heaven is

The eternal God hath
Death is at hand
you
Mercy doth yet stretch forth its arms
call you
!
before
sent to
!
You
have stayed too long, and abused patience too much

ready
stay no longer
O,
now
yourself by resolving that "this shall

faithfully performing
this
your
be the day," and
all this
Love him that you must love for

him with all your soul and might. Seek
might.
truly worth seeking, and will

pains,
still, it
and seek
it
first
with
all
"
resolution.
doing:" believe, repent, obey, and do
pay
al-
God, and save
please
for all
Up and
with
all
be
your
ever, and love

that
which
is
your cost and
your might, remembering
must be now or never.
And now
that
should conclude,
am
loath to end, for
ÔW OR
fear
What
have not yet prevailed with you.
now
NEVER.
resolved to do, from this day forward
endless consequence that
we have been
you
work of
are
is
It
speaking
which
of,
must be done, and quickly done, and thoroughly done.
Are you
not convinced that
is
it
sowing are not more necessary
work of
You
feel
not
you see not
what then
this
you do
will
hear the God of heaven,
Return and
calleth to you.
so
if
you
will not hear us,
who
hear him that shed his
blood for souls, and tendereth you

blood
your salvation
to
you
if
live
the
is
you are dead,
and
that ploughing
your harvest, than
day of grace
holiness in this
are blind, if
it
to
now
by
salvation
hear without any more delay, before
all is
his
gone,
and you are gone, and he, that now deceiveth you, torment
you
Hold on a
and
tified state,
your
salvation.
done with you
Yet a
you by
what
little
ever
for
hope, or pray, or strive for
too late to
more, nor ever offer

tify
longer in a carnal, earthly, unsanc-
little
it is
to
mercy
longer, and
and Christ will never
his Spirit.
show you how near you stand
shall I do to
now
going
and how these things are thought on there
to,
do
to
is
to
doing in the world that you are
and what
you
cleanse you by his blood, nor sanc-
eternity,
shall
have
will
invite
make you know how time
is
What
how
valued,
sin
and holiness are esteemed, in the world where you must

live
for
ever
things to-day ?
What
with bitter tears,

but help you
to
shall I do to
If every
I
word
make you know
these
write were accompanied
should not think
it
too dear, if
such a sight of the things
we speak
could
of,
that
you had
but a true awakened apprehension of the shortness of your
you might truly understand them as they are
that
day, of the nearness of eternity, and of the endless conse-
quence of your present work
and how holy labor, and
sinful loitering, will be regarded in the
world
to
come
for
NOW OR
But when we see you
ever.
regard your endless
life
NEVER.
sin,
and see
I3
and
also
trifle,
and no more
what haste your time
making, and yet cannot make you understand these
is
things
know
when we know
that
you
will shortly be astonished
review of your present sloth and
at the
among sleepy sinners

make you know it, whom
as they are
how
folly
and when we
that these mattei's are not thought of in another world,
to
concern
amazeth
this
us,
know
here, and yet

it
not
doth so exceedingly
and almost breaks our heart.
Sinner, whatever the devil and raging passion
may
say
our witnesses,
God and your own conscience shall be

that we desired nothing unreasonable, or
unnecessary,
your hands.
against a holy
The
you
that
at
question that
am
putting to you,
but
it is,
whether you will hearken
and conscience, and be as busy

ever you have been
provide for earth.
to
nothing but what
That
in.
which
may
all
not
succinctly, to
what
it is
me, then, whether
tell
thou
It
is
godliness,
called
art
I will tell
from
thee distinctly, though
that thou art thus importuned

it
to.
Christians in the world are agreed
leave thee in any darkness
can deliver thee,
God
in time to
provide for heaven, as
to
serious and practical godliness, that

It is
not whether
is
be for this form of church-government, or for
will
;
life,
and
be that of which any Christian
can doubt.
1.
That which
entreat of thee
that verily believeth there is a
is,
but to live as one
God; and
that this
God
is
Lord and Ruler of the world; and that it

incomparably more our business to understand and obey
the Creator, the

is
and as
his laws,
than
to
faithful subjects to
to live as
men
that do believe that this
and that the greatest of men are

to
him
be conformed to them,
man
observe or be conformed to the laws of
and that he
is infinitely
less
God
is
and
almighty,
than crawling worms
wise, and the
wisdom of
NOW
14
man
that
him
foolishness to
is
and amiable
OR JNEVER.
and that he
is
none are happy but those that do enjoy
that do enjoy
can be miserable;
it
good
infinitely
man, and
that his love is the only felicity of

it,
and none
and that riches, and
honor, and fleshly delights, are brutish vanities, in compari-
son of the eternal love of God.
controversy or doubt
Is
Not among
not
among wise men.
nor
to those in hell,
It
nor
any of
no doubt
is
to those that
understandings upon earth.
this
Christians,
a matter of
I
am
to those in
have not
sure
heaven,
lost their
Live, then, according to these
truths.
2.
men
Live as
into sin
and misery
that verily believe
and that
all
men
mankind
under the condemnation of the law of God,

delivered, pardoned, reconciled to God, and
tures,
by a renewing,
men
but as
and
it
that believe that this cure
to look after
doubt or controversy
methinks
himself,
it
they are
till
made new
crea-
Live
Live as
to
it
is
is this
man
men who have

a matter of
not to a Christian
any man
to
and
Sure
should not be
any more than
must be wrought,
change must be made upon our-
be not done already.
work
so great a
fallen
restoring, sanctifying change.
this great restoring
selves, if
is
are corrupted, and
any
and
knoweth
else that
in a dropsy,
whether he
when he feels the thirst, and sees the swelling.

Did you but know what cures and changes are necessarily
to be made upon your diseased, miserable soul, if you care
be diseased,
what becomes of
you would soon see cause
it,
to look
about you.
3.
Live but as men that verily believe the Son of God

sin, and brought the tidings of pardon and
hath suffered for

salvation,
which you may have,
self to
him who
him.
Live as
God, revealed
is
if
you
will give
up your-
the Physician of souls, to be healed
men
that
to lost
by
believe that the infinite love of
mankind
in the
Redeemer, doth bind
NOW OR NEVER
him with
to love
US
our restored
our hearts, and serve him with
all
faculties,
15
and
work
to
all
as those that have the
greatest thankfulness to show, as well as the greatest mercies to receive,
and misery
sinners, who, without Christ, could have had
believe that if
no hope, shall now love their

them, and
and refuse
sins,
to
leave
be converted, and unthankfully
repent and
to
Live as those that
escape.
to
reject the mercies of salvation, so dearly bought
and freely
offered them, their damnation will be doubled, as their sin

is
doubled.
Live but as
such mercy
men
have such redemption
that
and that are sure they can never escape,

to
"neglect so great salvation."
And
is
to
admire,
to secure,
and such a salvation
to entertain,
they continue
if
there
any contro-
There
versy among Christians in any of this?
not,
is
certainly.
Live but as men that believe
4.
Holy Ghost
the
is
given by Jesus Christ to convert, to quicken, and to sanctify all that
"of
he will save; that "Except ye be born again"
the Spirit,
heaven;" and
Christ, he is
your
as
men
shall
not enter into the
life,
by any common
salvation, or
make you
and not
resisted,
serve
Live
do
by the hear-
be prayed
quenched, and grieved.
among
Christians in
Live but as men that believe
any of
for,
and
And
is
this ?
that sin is the greatest
which the holy God abhorreth and then you

never make a mock of it, as Solomon saith the foolish
evil, the thing
will
Spirit of
no mend-
principles, will
that believe that this Spirit is given
there any controversy

5.
this,
acceptable to God.
ing of the word of God, and must
obeyed
kingdom of
any man have not the
none of his;" and that without
ing of your
for
you
that "if
nor say,
6.
What harm
is
in
it ?
Live but as men that believe no sin
out repentance ; and that repentance
is
is
pardoned with-
the
loathing and
^'OW OR NEVER.
16
forsaking of sin
to live in
nor
any
be loath
to
and that
to
if
be true,
it
nor to desire
sin,
it
know your unknown
you
will not suffer
keep the
to
least infirmity,
sins.
Live as those that believe that. there is a life everlasting, where the sanctified shall live in endless joy, and
7.
the unsanctified in endless punishment and
men
heaven and a
that verily believe a
judgment, in which
vised,
and
all
woe
the actions of this
all
men judged
live but as
and a day of
hell,
life
must be
to their endless state.
re-
Believe
these things heartily, and then think a holy diligence needless, if
Then be
you can.
enemies of godliness,
arguments,
to
confute
If one sight of heaven or
the cavils of the distracted world,
now abhor them, why
of the same thing in

8.
all
most diligent saints
to justify the
those that
its
measure do the same
make preparation
done
that ever shall be
your time
just now, before
and need not
faith
to tell
for
is
judgment of
in the
should not a sound belief
Live but as those that believe
the only time to

all
of the mind of the deriders and
you can.
would serve without any more ado, instead of other
hell
and
if
given us as
this life is
for eternal life
your
ended
and that
must be now,
salvation,
live as those that
them, that this time
know
is short,
and
almost at an end already, and stayeth for no man, but, as a
away.
post, doth haste
up
at stage-plays, in
It
will not stay while
compliments, in idle
pertinent, needless things
it
you are taken
visits,
will not tarry while
or any im-
you spend
yet the other year, or month, or day, in your worldliness or

ambition, or in your lusts and sensual delights, and put off
your repentance
O,
for the
to
another time.
Lord's sake, do but live as
men
must be
that
shortly buried in the grave, and their souls appear before the
Lord
and as men that have but
their everlasting
men
life,
that ever
that are sure to die,
this little
time to do
must be done.
and are not sure
to live
all for
live as
till
to-
NOW OR
morrow
and
NEVER.
17
not the noise of pleasure or worldly busi-
let
ness, or the chat or scorns of miserable fools, bear
reason, and make you
know
Vv
you knew
as if
live
down your
not
what you
was any doubt about these things.

man, and what is his name, that dares contradict
or as if there
lio is
the
make
them, and can
knowledge
good
it
do not stand
O, do not sin against your
and see your glass running,
still
make no more
and time making such haste, and yet
haste
you were not concerned in it. Do not,

O, do not slumber, when time and judgment never slumber ;
nor sit still, when you have so much to do, and know all
yourselves than
that
if
now left undone must be undone for ever

how many questions of exceeding weight have you
is
Alas,
yet to be resolved in
whether your
sins be
when you
die
many more such
difficulty or concern.
I tell
questions,
And
all
It
to
shall be
saved
leave this world
you, the answering of these,

is
a matter of no small
these must be done in this
must be
Lastly, Will you but live as
9.
the
and uncertain time.
little
whether you
whether you are ready
and enter upon another

and
whether you are truly sanctified
pardoned
noiu or never.
men
that believe that
world and the jiesh are the deadly enemies of your salva-
tion? and that "if

love of the Father
that,
"
Spirit
if
ye
any man love the world,"
is
not in
him ?" and
live after the flesh,
ye
as
so far
men
shall die
but
ye do mortify the deeds of the body, ye
"the
that believe
if
by the
shall live;"
and that those who are in Christ Jesus, and are freed from
condemnation, are such as " walk not after the
after the Spirit ?"
Will you
live as
knowing
that
flesh,
but
we must
" make no provision for the flesh to fulfil the lusts thereof;"
and must not " walk in gluttony and drunkenness, in cham-
bering and wantonness, in

" have our hearts
tion in
heaven
VOL. HI.
strife
and envying;" but must
where our treasure
is,"
and our conversa-
and being risen with Christ, must seek the

32
on NEVER.
NOVv'
13
things that are above, and set our affections on them, and
not on the things that are on earth
Will you say
that
any of
matter of controversy and doubt
agreed in
lieve
as
not all Christians
you
profess that
not yourself in the things that
men would
were themselves
us while
Are
not, yourself,
O, that you would hear us
you
our singular opinion, or
Live, then, but as those that do believe
it ?
condemn
Do you
it ?
this is
do that had seen heaven and
to
you the
and compassionate desire
O, look up
to
your God
Look
inwardly upon your souls
and
your salvation.
for
out unto eternity
look
look wisely upon your short and
and then bethink you how the
not to
hell,
awakened frame, yet hear

words of truth, with some
in a perfectly
we speak
be-
and
confess.
Though we speak
seriousness
hasty time
you
it,
remnant of
little
and what
that
most
concerneth you to despatch and secure before you
die.
your time should be employed
is
it
Now, you have sermons, and books, and warnings it will

Now, you have the Lord's day to spend in
not be so long.
:
holy exercises, for the edification and solace of your souls.
O, what invaluable mercies are
these
all
know your
O,
lime, and use these with industry, and improve this harvest
for
your souls
cry
to
God
For
hope
in
hath a hearing ear

you.
It
yet
if
needy, miserable sinner
it
must be
you have a heart and tongue, he
the Spirit of grace
will not be thus
yet time and leave to pray and
always
the loudest cries will do no good.
of
always
will not be thus
it
You have
or never.
7101V
for
it
is
the time
ready
is
to assist
coming when
O, pray, pray, pray, poor,
must be now or never.
Would you not be loath to be left to the despairing case

many poor distressed souls, that cry out, " O it is now too
late
me
now,
my
fear
if I
and given
day of grace
is
past
should call upon him
me
over
to
myself.
It is
God
will not hear
he hath forsaken me,

too late to repent, too
NOW OR
NEVER.
19
new life all is too late."

many of these are in a safer and
late to pray, too late to think of a
This case
sad
is
but yet
better case than they imagine ; and it is not too late, while
they cry out, " It is too late ;" but if you are left to cry out
"It
in hell,
too late,"
is
alas,
cry and lamentation will
be
it
how long and how

God knoweth
consider, poor sinner, that
He
season of thy mercies.

their season
thanks
and
know
thou not
to
him
all his
mercies in their season
and wilt
who
commanded
hath
And
hath also appointed thee thy time.
To-day, therefore, hearken
He
thou harden not thy heart.
thee thy work,
this is his appointed
to his voice,
and see that
that bids thee repent
believe in Christ, doth also bid thee do

in the time, if
the time and
giveth the spring and harvest in
thy time and season for love, and duty, and
Consider that God,
time.
doleful a
it
now.
thou wilt be indeed obedient
One would
and
Obey him
he best under-
men
standeth the
fittest
time.
have
much
already, and loitered so long, and are so
lost so
think that, to
that
lamentably behindhand, and stand so near the bar of God
and their everlasting
any more
1
add but
shall
better time."
cult,
more
become
you
there should be no need to say
stale,
persuade them
to
this
Take
this,
doubtful,
if,
not desperate.
will loiter
till
to
"
be up and doing.
You
or the
are never like to have a
work
will
grow more
diffi-
through the just judgment of God,

If all this will not serve, but
it
still
time be gone, what can your poor friends
do but lament your misery
what words, what
pains,
The Lord knows,
what
cost
if
would tend
we knew
to
your
awakening, and conversion, and salvation, we should be

glad
to
submit
to
it
labors, or liberties, or
and hope we should not think our
our lives too dear,
and so necessary a work.
can
do,
you
But
if,
to
when
promote so blessed
all is
done that
will leave us nothing but our tears
we
and moans
-^ÔVV
20
If
record, that
we
gence
is
can do no more,
took our time to
necessary
to
shall
shall leave this
upon
you, that serious
tell
and that God
" Rewarder of them that diligently seek him
was your day, your only day.
It
Sinner, art thou
Can
and the suffering

I
your salvation
Wilt thou
OR NEVER.
for self-destroyers, the sin is yours,
be yours.
still
still
must be
secure
;"'
dili-
is
the
and that
this
now
or never.
refuse to pray
.^
thy heart or hand endure
In
Lord's avenging day
tlie
See, his mighty arm
is
bared.
Awful terrors clothe his brow

For his judgment stand prepared
Thou must either break or bow.
At
his presence nature shakes,
Earth, affrighted, hastes to flee
Solid mountains melt like
What
Who
will then
his advent
may
You, who glory

Will you
When
wax
become of thee ?
in
abide
your shame,
find a place to hide

tlie
world
is
wrapp'd in flame
Lord, prepare us by thy grace.
Soon we must resign our breath
And
our souls be call'd to pass
Through
Let us
now
tlie
iron gate of death.
our day improve.
Listen to the Gospel voice
Seek the things
that are above
Scorn the world's pretended joys.

Newton.
90.
Io.
THE
SAILOR'S FRIEID.
Sailor, will you permit a friend to converse with you
seriously a few
moments
Your
life
is
life
of danger.
may be sailing under a cloudless sky to-morstorm may rage around you, and put your life in
To-day, you
row, the
jeopardy.
that is
still
But there is a danger to which you are exposed,

more awful the danger of losing the soul. Yet
a Saviour has been provided, who not only delivers from

this danger, but raises superior to the fear of
The
following pages are intended to
this danger,
and
to the
way
men
only
While the children of

depravity
this
is
not manifested
same manner. One

There are
another.
professions
every other.
draw your
of escaping
attention to
it.
are universally depraved,
by every individual
in the
follows one vicious inclination, another,

characteristic crimes attached to
and yours has not
The crime of swearing,

among seafaring people,
for
to
many
failed to be thus distinguished.
example, has become
Many
a proverb.
common
are guilty of
and they attempt to apologize for their

conduct by saying, " We mean no harm ;" but the Lord
habitual swearing
hath said, that he "will not hold him guiltless

his
name
in vain."
who
taketh
Others indulge in violent anger upon
the least opposition, and often gratify their rage in the most
degrading manner, and even glory in
courage
or should the thought
such conduct
is
come
this,
as a display of
across their mind, that
condemned by the divine law, they endeav-
or to quiet conscience with such reflections as the following ' No man is perfect ;" " I do not keep anger ;" " I am
:
VOL. IIL
32*
THE SAILOR'S FRIEND.
no hypocrite ;" and, upon the whole, "
have a good heart."
There are others who take exquisite pleasure in riotous

" Who hath woe ? who hath
mirth and brutal dissipation.
sorrow ? who hath contentions ? who hath babbling ?
hath wounds without cause ?"
Is it not frequently the
sipated sailor
Is not this a just description of
revellings, banquetings, and* riotous meetings
who
dis-
some of your
And mark
baneful effects which result from them even in this
the
world.
"
Thou
shalt be as he
who
lieth
down
in the midst
of the sea, or as he that lieth on the top of a mast.
They
have stricken me, thou shalt say, and I was not sick
they have beaten me, and I felt it not when shall I awake ?
:
will seek
it
yet again."
Prov. 23
29, 34, 35.
Many, however, who would be shocked
so far to trans-
gress the bounds of external decency, are, nevertheless,
" foolish and disobedient, serving divers lusts and pleasures,

living in malice
and envy, hateful and hating one another."
Your conduct may be upright and honorable among men

but how does your heart stand affected towards God ? Is
he the object of your supreme delight ? Or is your heart
wholly set on earthly things ? Are you grateful to your
fellow-men
you
feel
for the favors
no gratitude
to
they bestow upon you
Him who
bestows upon you
And
life,
do
and
?
If you say you are grateful to
your gratitude be proved to be genuine
by searching his word to know his will, and by obeying all
He who searcheth and knoweth the
his commandments ?
breath, and
God,
let
me
all
ask
things
if
you should love him with all your heart,

and your neighbor as yourself. Whatever you may think
of yourself, when tried by this righteous law you must be
For, in place of loving God, " the carnal
found guilty.
mind," and this is the mind which all the children of men
are possessed of by nature, " is enmity against God ; for it is
It
not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be."
is further declared, that " there is none righteous, no, not
heart, requires that
one
all
have sinned, and come short of the glory of God ;"

and
this is
written, " that every mouth
may
be stopped, and
become guilty before God."

Allow me now to warn you of your danger, if you have
hitherto neglected the great salvation.
We presume you
will acknowledge, from the view which has been given of
the divine law, that you are a sinner.
Hear, then, the solemn denunciation of Jehovah; "Cursed is every one who
continueth not in all things written in the book of the law to
do them."
There is only this life between you and that
world where this curse shall be put into execution. And
" what is our life ? it is a vapor which continueth for a little
time, and then vanisheth away."
A thousand unforeseen
all
the world
may land us in an eternal world, before we are

And you not only stand exposed to the diseases and
calamities common to man, but, from the perilous nature of
your employment, you may be said to be "in deaths oft."
accidents
aware.
The
swelling sea may, in a moment, wash you into the

bosom of the great deep. Perhaps you have been more
when
than once in scenes of the greatest danger,
winds appeared
billow
to
the stormy
carry death on their wings, and every
seemed fraught with destruction and, possibly, in

every effort, you were nearing a coast under the
;
spite of
fearful apprehension of being dashed in pieces.
have seen
vessels, with
which you were
in
You may
company,
hoist
signals of distress, and been unable to afford relief to those
who were ready
to perish
yea, out
may
of a wreck you
have escaped, while you saw some of your shipmates sink

like lead in the
have you not
mighty waters.
felt
In such calamitous scenes,
the pangs of a guilty conscience, and the
fearful forebodings of a future
judgment
been sensible, that although religion

it is
may
Have you
be despised in
indispensably necessary at the approach of death
not
life,
In
you not formed the resolution, that,

spared, you would never be the same again ?
But the
the hour of d.anger, have

if
storm has no sooner subsided, than you, like Pharaoh, have
hardened your heart, returned
to
your old courses of iniqui-
'
ty,

and become fully as unconcerned about an eternal world
And " do ye thus requite the Lord,

people and unwise ?"
as before.
foolish
"
You
into
are thus every
moment
danger of being hurried
in
an eternal world, and into misery with which
Those who perish
be compared.
The
ever.
condition
awful
is,
Scriptures represent
and what
renders
the
all
moment
sufferings endured in this world are not for a
to
in their sins, perish for
mankind
all
their
as in a lost
situation
more
still
they are neither aware of their danger, nor at
Thus it was with the old world,

concerned about it.
" they planted and builded, they bought and sold, they mar-
all
ried
and were given
in marriage, until the
And
away."
day
that
Noah
came and swept them
entered the ark, and the flood
all
although "the heavens and the earth which
are now, are reserved unto fire against the
day of judgment
and perdition of ungodly men," yet the same carelessness

about an eternal world
men may
wicked God
tempest
still
continues.
put off the evil day,

shall rain fire
this shall
it
is
But however much

upon the
certain, that "
and brimstone, and a horrible
be the portion of their cup."
Jesus shall be revealed from heaven, in flaming
The
fire
"
Lord
taking
vengeance on them who know not God, and who obey not
the Gospel who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of
;
his
power."
2 Thes.
7-9.
What
are
all
the desola-
which the most dreadful storms ever produced, when

compared with this ? The dismal shrieks of the crew, when
their vessel is going to pieces, can convey but a faint idea
when men shall be callof the wreck of dissolving worlds
ing to the rocks and mountains to fall on them, and cover
them from the wrath of God and of the Lamb.
Do you ask, How shall I be safe at that day ? There
tions
is
no
way
of safety for any sinner, except through the atone-
ment of Jesus.
"He
is
a hiding-place from the wind, and
a covert from the tempest.
He
is
a strength to the poor.
needy in their distress, a refuge from

shadow from the heat, when the blast of
ones is as a storm against the wall." Isa. 25 4.
and a strength
to tlie
the storm, and a

the terrible
"
God
so loved the world, that
he gave his only-begotten
Son, that whosoever believeth in him might not perish, but
have everlasting
Jehovah's equal Son assumed our

" He
life."
nature, and endured that wrath which sin deserves.

did no sin, neither
was
mouth
guile found in his
yet
it
pleased the Lord to bruise him, and to put him to grief."
The Lord
laid
Saviour died
on him the iniquity of
for sinners, that
his people.
all
they might live
The
and in proof
of the Father's approbation of his atonement, he was raised

from the dead, and " exalted to the Father's right hand, a
Prince and a Saviour,
to
give repentance and the remission
of sins."
Sailor
this is the
His name
tal soul.
run and are
safe,
is
only haven of safety for your immora strong tower, to which the righteous
and there
is
no other refuge
for there is
no other name given under heaven among men, by which

you can be saved, but the name of Jesus ; and by him, all
who
believe are justified from all things.
their iniquities
to ask,
What
God remembers no more.
think you of Christ ?
Their
and
sins
Permit me, then,
Ponder the question
both your present and eternal happiness hinge upon right
views of the Saviour.
If he be
your refuge and righteousyour esteem; but if
ness, he will be "altogether lovely" in
consider him " as a root out of dry ground," an

unworthy of either your faith or affection, you stand
unsheltered from the wrath of God.
We are warranted to
affirm, that without faith in the Redeemer, and supreme love
to him, you can neither live in safety, nor die in security
for it is written, " If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ,
let him be anathema maranatha"
accursed at the comingr
you
still
object
of Christ.
him
yet
is
way
Come
But, praised be his name, the
open.
Jesus
is still
saying, "
of access to
unto me,
will give
you
all
rest.
Therefore, take with you words, and turn to the Lord, and
say,
we
Take away
all
miquity, and receive us graciously, and
will render unto thee the offerings of our lips."
You have
frequently
the advantage of a well-shel-
felt
tered roadstead, or safe harbor, during a disastrous storm.
And when danger was
apprehended, the desire of
you
preservation has induced
to
steer,
May we
speed, for a place of safety.
as wise a part for the salvation of
many
instances,
faith,
yet,
you have done
all
self-
possible
not, then, entreat
to act
life ?
with
your
you
soul, as, in
for the preservation of
your
Take an example of prudence from Noah, who, " by

when he was warned of God of things not seen as
prepared an ark
to the
saving of his house, by which
he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteous-
by faith." If you take shelter under Immanyou will experience that " there is now no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not
ness which
is
uel's wings,
after the flesh, but
after
Flee, therefore, for
the Spirit.
you in the Gosdrowning man would gladly lay hold of a rope

him as the means of deliverance he would neither
refuge, to lay hold on the hope set before
pel."
cast to
hesitate
about the strength of the cord, nor question the
him who threw it. He might be

you lay hold on the glorious Gospel
of the blessed God, you will most certainly be delivered
compassion or
ability of
disappointed.
But
if
from the gulf of eternal misery, and enjoy everlasting life.

Do not, then, delay attending to the things which belong
your everlasting peace. " The Lord is not willing that

any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."
" Who art thou, O man, who despisest the riches of the forbearance of God, not knowing that the goodness of God
to
leadeth thee to repentance ?"

in the service of
Satan
if so,
Perhaps you have grown old

it
is
surely time
to listen to the
Lord while he may

Let the
call ye upon him while he is near.
be found
wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his
voice of earnest entreaty
;
" Seek ye the
and let him return unto the Lord, and he will

;
have mercy upon him ; and to our God, for he will abun" Behold, now is the accepted time ; bedantly pardon."
"To-day, if ye will
hold, now is the day of salvation."
thoughts
If the reader
hear his voice, harden not your hearts."
is
him attend to the gracious words of the Lord " I

love them who love me, and they who seek me early shall
There is a thousand fold more to be enjoyed in
find me."
young,
let
the unsearchable riches of Christ, than the most sanguine

To have the soul " filled with
expectations can anticipate.
all the fulness of God," puts more gladness into the heart
of the righteous, than the wicked enjoy, when their corn, and
" O, taste and see that the
wine, and oil are increased.
Lord
is
good
In order
to
who
they are blessed
trust in
him."
animate the hopes, draw forth the prayers,
and stimulate the exertions of the church of God for the

conversion of seamen, God hath declared to Zion, " Then
thou shalt see and flow together, and thy heart shall fear
and be enlarged, because the abundance of the sea shall be
converted unto thee, and the forces of the Gentiles shall be
The achievement of
5.
Isaiah 60
brouojht unto thee."
:
such a noble conquest upon the watery world, where Satan

has long swayed an almost universal sceptre, is calculated
And the
to make heaven and earth resound with joy.
sailor's profane swearing shall give place to the praises of
Lord a new
" Sing unto the
the Lord, from a pure heart.
song, and his praise from the ends of the earth, ye that go
down
to the sea,
and
inhabitants thereof."
all
that
Isa.
42
is
:
therein
the
isles,
and the
10.
It is worthy of remark, that in these eventful days in

which we live, the Lord is blessing the word of his grace in
no ordinary degree, for the conversion of seamen. They
are now putting their trust in Him, " w^ho is the confidence
of
all
the ends of the earth, and of those
upon the sea." Psalm 65 5.

"repentance unto life." This
:
God
is
is
who
are afar off
granting to sailors
calculated to afford you
encouragement
the most heart-melting
and confide
And consider, that

of salvation
ment
to
return to the Lord,
to
mercy.
in his
the Gospel will prove either the
means
you, or the means of increasing your punish-
The
at last.
time
not far distant,
is
when
the
hand
of the writer shall moulder into dust, and the eye of the
reader shall be closed in death

at the
may
they
Then
judgment-seat of Christ.
never meet but
the reception
you
give to these truths will be disclosed before an assembled

If they be the
world.
God, and
to
Him, "
to
means of leading
whom
all
to the
oracles of
the prophets gave witness,"
their design will be fully answered.
But,
you
if
live
and
die in the neglect of the great salvation, they will be an
additional witness against you, and will add to
anguish.
We
ciled unto
God.
sin, to
your eternal
would, therefore, beseech you to be recon-
For he hath made
Christ,
who knew no
made the
be sin for the guilty, that they might be
righteousness of
God
in him.
tions of the Scriptures
atonement
for sin,
If
you believe the declara-
concerning the death of Christ as an
and receive him as your Redeemer, you

God, and the good hope of everlast-
will enjoy the favor of
ing
life
and death
its terrors.
will, in
consequence, be stripped of
all
In the midst of the stormy ocean, your mind
will be at peace, trusting in
Him who
can say
to
the proud
waves of the sea, " Peace, be still." You will be convinced

that "not a hair of your head can perish without your
Father;" and that, although he should see fit to allow you
to perish in the sea, your spirit will immediately join those
of "the just made perfect;" and at the great day, when
" the sea shall give up the dead which are in it," your body,
" fashioned' like the glorious body of the Son of God, will be
caught up
to
meet the Lord
in the air
and so be
for
with the Lord."
ever
IVo.
97.
HISTORY or OLD SHUSCO
^*3fe.
Old Shusco,
was commonly called, was an Ojibwa

was born, but it is believed to have been near the island of Mackinaw, in the
strait which connects lakes Michigan and Huron.
He was
left an orphan when about ten days old, and came under
Indian.
It is
as lie
not knoMî where he
the care of six -different persons during his childhood and

youth.
"VThen he was about fifteen, his grandfather undertook to make him a juggler, which is thought by the
Indians to be an office of great honor and importance. They

suppose that a juggler, or " mystery man," as he is sometimes called, can cure diseases, bring rain to water the earth,
VOL. III.
33
HISTORY OF OLD SHUSCO.
cause the wild deer to come within reach of the hunter's
and do many other wonderful things.
spear,
To make Shusco a juggler, his grandfather blackened his

the only food
face with coal, and made him fast ten days
;
he had during
this
time being one cup of broth.
This long
But Shusco thought he

had not been thoroughly made a " mysterj" man," and therefore fasted a second time, for five days, after which he was
abstinence nearly caused his death.
regarded as a wise
many
tised
man among
over their minds
and
his people.
upon them,
deceitful arts
He now
prac-
to support his influence
became a notorious
in addition, he
drunkard.
Shusco's wife went to hear the missionaries, and
As Jesus now was
converted.
concerned that her husband should
His account of the
eflbrts
know that
up of great and
know and love him too.

made to lead him to
Avhich his wife
the knowledge of the Saviour,

did not
became
precious to her soul, she felt
is
in substance as follows.
the practices of Indian jugglers were
sinful errors,
till
my
wife,
" I
made
whose heart had
been turned, told me that such was the case. I had no pleasure in hearing her speak of the Christian religion, and said I
was
satisfied
told
me who God
book.
Spirit
I
;
Great
heart,
with the religion of

is,
and what
is,
forefathers.
as
it is
She
still
written in his
had before believed that there was one Great
but she explained to
me
the true character of this
made me understand the sinfulness of the

and the way in which it is turned from evil to good
Spirit,
by believing in Christ Jesus.

Spirit alone could
make my
died without having

erable.
my
sin
felt this
me
that the Holy

and that all who
power, would be for ever mis-
She
told
heart better
did not like these words, but I could not forget
When I thought of them, my heart was not fixed

and unshaken as it was before. I began to determine that
I would not practise the juggler's arts any more, and that I
would give heed to what was declared in the Scriptures."
It was in the year 1828 that Shusco felt convinced that
he was a sinner, and for some time he was overwhelmed
them.
His wife observed that he

with a view of his past sins.
distressed, and asked him the cause.
He rephed, he
was
was
sick at heart.
"You must pray," she said, "to God,
and he will forgive you." " How can he forgive so great a
sinner as I am ? I have spent all my life in sinning against
" But," she answered, " he will forgive you for the
him."
sake of Christ, who died for us, if you pray to him for he
forgave me, and I know that he will forgive you also."
Shusco tried to pray, but found no relief. Two weeks passed
away, and his sins still rose, as it were, before his view, so
that it seemed to him that God could not have mercy on him.
There was one evil habit to which he had given wây, that
he now earnestly wished to be delivered from the sinful
He stn.^ggled and prayed against
practice of drunkenness.
One night he arose from his bed in
it, and against all sin.
great agony of mind, and went to his usual place of prayer,
and there he cried to God until, as he said, " he found his
burden gone, the hard thing in his heart taken away, and
he was not sick any more." In describing the morning that
succeeded this conflict, he said, " My heart was fiUed with
Oh, it
I went out of doors.
love to God and his children.
was very pleasant the sun shone bright the trees and
every thing around looked as they had never looked before.
When I sat down to eat my breakfast, Sarah said to me,
Very happy my heart is not
'How do you feel now?'
What day,' said she,
sick now, and I think I love God.'
;
'
'
Shusco?'
'is it to-day,
'We must
day.)
told her prayer-day, (the Lord's
not work to-day, but pray to God.'
We
Thus the first

was, to remember
both then prayed, and were very happy."

impulse of this converted son of the forest
the Sabbath-day to keep
He now
He had
Mackinaw.
and
am
wrought
holy.
formerly shumied them, but
now
felt
" I
want to tell them I love God now,

The news of his conversion soon
very happy."
desire to see them.
spread.
it
thought of the missionaries at the island of
All
I"
who heard
At
first it
of
it
said,
"
What hath God
could scarcely be believed, that he
had become a disciple of Christ

ity, and love to all, especially to
was no room for doubt.
Shusco's lodge, or hut,
but
when
Christians,
now ceased
to
his deep humil-
were
seen, there
be a place
for
drunk-
had ever been when strong

It became the resort of the Inliquor could be obtained.
One circumstance will
dians who loved to pray and praise.
show how much he felt his dependence on the Holy Spirit,
He was told that
and how earnestly he sought his aid.
some Indians were coming to the island where he lived
and he had many fears, as some of them were his wife's relaenness and revelry
for
such
it
tions, lest
he should
fall into
temptation.
Âlien they came,
One morning he was gone

his wife did not know what had become
out a long time
of him, and she began to fear that he had gone and joined
At length he returned, and told
her brethren in drinking.
her he had been engaged in prayer, and that now he could
He went, and found them lying round a
visit her friends.
They tried to
pail of whiskey, in a state of drunkenness.
They
induce him to drink; but they could not prevail.
he
resorted, as usual, to prayer.

:
said, "
Why
is
it,
Shusco, that you will not drink with us
now, when you always did formerly, and loved it so much ?"
He replied, that the Lord helped him that formerly, when
he tried to leave oft' drinking, he attempted it in his own
strength, and failed but that now he had obtained strength

from God, and had no desire for ardent spirits, and was reIn the evening he obsolved never more to touch them.
;
served to a missionary, he had never in his life been so happy as on that day. His being able to overcome a love for
whiskey and other strong drink is the more remarkable, as
the Indians will -sell all they have to obtain it. Shusco was
never known to taste it from the time of his conversion.
On Saturday it was the practice of Shusco to go round
to all the huts of the Indians, to tell
them that the following
day would be the Lord's day, and that they must all go to the
house of God. When away from the island of Mackinaw,
he had no means of knowing the day of the week, as he
But he prepared a
could not read.
Upon
almanac.
passed.
distance
notch
this
an
stick to serve as
he cut a notch
each day as
for
At one time he was upon another

from home, making sugar, and he
consequently, he missed a day.
island at
it
some
forgot to cut a
When
the Lord's
day came, he arose, ate his breakfast, and went out to work
Soon a person who was passing, told him it was
as usual.
He immediately dropped his work, went
the sacred day.
During
into the hut, and told his wife what day it was.
the folloAving
week he returned home. As he entered the

was observed to look pale. The first
mission house, he
perhaps you will be

I am very sorry
have done." " Why, what have you
done, Shusco ?" " I have broken the Sabbath-day," he said
" I thought,"
and then he explained how it had happened.
he continued, " that I would come and tell you of it myself,
words he spoke were, "
very sorry for
what
and not wait till all the Christians heard of it." He then
threw away the stick which he had hitherto used as an
almanac, and prepared another.
He showed much gratitude for any kindness done to him.
Whenever a friend gave him any thing, he would first look
up, and thank the Lord, and then would express his gratitude to the giver. At one time he went in company with
his wife to
an island where they had previously planted po-
tatoes, for the
purpose of digging them.
crop promised to yield abundantly.

said he, "
we had
He
found that the
" Before digging a hill,"
a prayer-meeting, to thank the Lord
for
them."
Shusco's attaclunent to the word and the house of
was remarkable
God
and often did he visit the missionaries on

week-days, to hear them read and explain the Scriptures.
The missionaries being about to remove from the island, he
said to them, " I see you all now, but by ^nd by I shall see
you no more in this world, and I shall be very lonely, for we
shall have none to teach us on the Sabbath but I shall soon
this makes me thankful.
I
see you all again in heaven
After most of
feel that I shall soon go where Jesus is."
33*
VOL. III.
;
HISTORY OF OLD SHU SCO.
the missionaries had
left,
before her departure,
went
message
special
to see Shusco.
female
to another
who had anxiously sought his

" Do not forget any thing I
and
well,
but half happy
many drunken
hope
I
;
for I
to
am
and
spiritual good,
and
said,
Tell her that
you.
tell
am very happy in my mind
again in this world,
am
member of the mission,

By her he sent a
member of the mission,
a female
meet her
am
never see her
if I
in heaven.
Still, I
half sorry because there are so
Indians around, serving the devil as
once
How good God has been to me, to make me one of his

children.
Why did he choose me when I was so great a
did.
and
sinner,
them, talk
to do so
get
me
like these poor drunlvcn Indians

to
them, and
tell
theni
but God keeps
away from them then again

;
come.
me from
home
about the Bible
a great
for
will not forget
many
Sometimes, as we
sit
;
for
me, that
what she has
times
mission house hungry, and she has fed
one to read to us
At times
it.
me
When
and as
As
I
am happy
how much more
be w^hen
may
me
told
have gone
to the
we feel sad, because we have no

we will remember what we have
knows what
is
go to the house of God,
for I
look round the house, and see
think
run
here,
still,
the Sabbath comes,
I sit there, I
try to
Avith God's word.
heard, and leave ourselves with God, for he

best.
pity
my hut when they

next time I am sick, I
and that she must pray
see her in heaven.
But
of the devil
I sit still in
Tell her, that perhaps the
shall go
work
Sometimes they
yet they will not listen.
to drink
the
it is
how
think
God
is
there.
nice every thing
is,
beautiful God's house above will
get there."
desire to do good to others
He was happy
marked the conduct of
and he desired that others

might partake of the rich blessings which he had received
through Christ Jesus. A few weeks before his death the
all the family
family of his grandson came to visit him
were in pagan darkness. Every morning he went to their
Soon after their arrival
hut, to talk and pray with them.
he became so lame that he could not walk but this did not
Shusco.
himself,

keep him from seeking to do tliem good
hut upon his hands and knees.
The female friend before

was ill, went to
he asked her
inquiries,
"
very
but
sick,
will only be a
it
Do you
"
dure pain."
you willing
him her hand,
said,
feel
now,
to go
am
"I
little
and hear-
as he
was now
going home.
while .that
happy?" she inquired
am
I shall en;
"and
be the Lord's will?"
if it
to their
After making some
see him.
to give
Perhaps now," he
referred to returned,
ing that he
blind.
7
he crept
are
"Yes,
" But do you not desire to

be the Lord's will ?"
"Yes, if it is the
very willing," was the reply.

get Mêll again, if
Lord's will.
it
leave all in his hands.
sending his children here to see
always very kind
thank the Lord
me when
to his children,
am
and merciful."
quested the friend to sing his favorite hymn.

sick to join
with you," he said
She then sung the
more."
"
On
" but
hymn
sick.
want
to
" I
hear
for
He is
He re-
am
it
too
once
beginning,
Jordan's rugged banks
stand,
And cast a wishful eye

To Canaan's fair and happy land,
Where my possessions lie."
On
the morning before his death, his wife, seeing that he
" Do not
down and wept by his side.
"because I am going to leave you, for God
God
will take care of you but weep rather for your sins.
Look to him in
has promised to take care of his children.
prayer
he has promised, you know, that what we ask in
prayer he will give us.
Remember what I say, for perhaps
was very
weep," he
ill,
sat
said,
this
is
the last time
Mali soon
I shall
come where
am
Perhaps you also

To-morrow, or next day,
speak to you.
going.
but love God."

His wife went out to
and when she returned he was committing
his soul to his Saviour, and commending her also to his
fatherly care; shortly after which he ceased to breathe. He
was calm and happy to the last hour of his life, which ended
perhaps
fetch
I shall
some wood
go
on the 30th of September, 1837.
From
heathen juggler,
shows itself in the same way in
The
the experience of men, of whatever tribe or nation.
Gospel is not only suited to those born in a professedly Christian land, but to those also who have been brought up in
When it is applied by the
the darkness of heathenism.
we
this short history of a converted
see that true rehgion
Holy Spirit, it îroduces the same confidence in Grod, the

same love to Christ, the "like precious faith" in his blood
and righteousness as the ground of a sinner's acceptance, the
same delight in the Scriptures and in prayer, the same regard for the Sabbath and the people of God, the same hatred to sin and desire to " follow after holiness," the same
good hope of heaven and zeal for the salvation of others.
By these tests let us examine ourselves are they to be seen
in our lives and experience ?
Let it also be observed, that not only those who have
been born heathen like poor Shusco, but every man, must
" Ye must be born
be converted, or he cannot be saved.
John 3:7. "Except ye be converted, and beagain."
come as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom
Men in every country, and in
Matt. 18:3.
of heaven."
every age, inherit a fallen and depraved nature, and left to
:
themselves, they go on adding sin to sin

is
stopped, and all the world
May the Holy

"new creatures in
3:19.
be
Spirit
is
so that every
guilty before God.
renew our
hearts, that
Christ Jesus;" then
fully receive that "faithful saying,
we
mouth
Rom.
we may
shall joy-
and worthy of
all ac-
came into the world to save

Tim. 1:15; then we shall find,
ceptation, that Christ Jesus
even the chief, 1

unspeakable happiness, that
sinners,"
to our
"we have
through his blood, even the forgiveness of our
redemption
sins."
Io.
98.
THE NE BIRTH.
Whoever
win perceive
reads the Scriptures with serious attention,

that
every person,
This change
some kind of change must take place
in order to his
is
is
Regeneration, or the
change
necessity of this
Bible, and
in
real Christian.
described by a variety of names, the most
remarkable of which
The
becoming a
New
Birth.
often insisted on in the
is
nowhere more strongly than
in
our Saviour's
discourse with Nicodemus, recorded in the third chapter of

St.
John's Gospel, where he says
I say
unto you, except a
man
to that ruler, Verily, verily,
he horn again, he cannot see the
kingdom of God.
As
this
change
of great importance
is
much
reason
absolutely necessary to salvation,
is
to
know what
to fear that
and take the shadow
it is
many
it is
especially, as there
mistake
Let
for the substance.
its
true nature,
it
be observed,
then, that,
The new birth is a great change the term must sigmuch it signifies that we must be very different
from what we were before; we begin a new kind of life.
1.
nify so
Elsewhere, the same change

darkness
to light,"
is
described by " passing from
and "from death
All these
to life."
expressions strongly denote a very great change.
ought
to
be seriously considered
for
what a
And
this
light matter
THE NEW
passes for religion in general
BIRTH.
a few lifeless forms, a
little
make the whole of

But the Scripture expressions of " a new creation," and
They
second birth," surely imply something more.
outward decency, or some

it.
" a
faint desires,
certainly denote a very great change.
The new
2.
Many
birth is a universal change.
are the
If he cannot keep sinners in total blind-
devices of Satan.
ness and security, he tries to pervert their views of religion
mistake appearances for realities
by causing them
to
by putting a part
for the
by mistakes of
this kind.
some serious thoughts about the
another,
and eternity
from others,
this partial
and religion,
soul,
and therefore do some things, and abstain
and quiet conscience.
fears
to still their
change
in point
of morals,
is
owing
often
only exchange one sin
for
But
some
another which they love better.
others are very diligent in religious duties, to atone for
the indulgence of their lusts, and to cover
own
to
Some men
natural change in age, temper, and situation.
And
or,
Many are ruined for ever,

Most men have, at one time or
whole.
observation
with a darling
them from
and the more unwilling they are
sin,
the
more ready are they
to
their
to part
overdo in
such duties as do not oppose the present current of unsanctified affections.
The new
3.
than a
ward
strict
duties.
birth is
an inward change.
It
acter.
"give
but there
God
me
is
an
openly wicked than he was
less
essential
looks at the heart.
thine
heart.^'
The
change of
"
My
great
God
of the penitent
is,
his
whole char-
son," says Solomon,
sum
*Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with
The prayer
more
does not consist in partial reformation only,
by which a man becomes

before
It is far
and regular course of outward actions or out-
" Create in
of the law
all
me
is,
thy heart."
a clean heart,
;" and the grand promise of the covenant
is,
"
THE NEW
new
heart will
having
If
this
The
to
the
new
birth consists in
heart.
you ask what a new heart
objects.
world
Now,
give you."
new
BIRTH.
affections of the
is
It is
new
a heart set on
mind are turned from the
God, and from the supreme love of self
to the love
of our fellow-men, and from living to ourselves to living to

the glory of God.
This
may
some
in
is
arise
very different from an outward change, which
sins,
and practise some
health or his reputation
forsake
it
for fear
or from the slavish
real hatred to a sin, as sin, he
of burning in hell for
may
out any love to God, he
sake of his
duties, for the
among men,
Without any
fear of hell.
may
A man may avoid excess
from mere selfishness.
it
and with-
perform religious duties
though they are a heavy burden
to
him, he thinks
for
more
it
tolerable than hell will be.
The new
4.
of
the
Holy
birth
against God, and this
is
or overcome, because
of man
is
We
Spirit.
a change, wrought hy the operation

are by nature in a state of enmity
what we cannot of ourselves remove,
we
love our sins.
It is
the sinfulness
that interposes the obstacle to his regeneration
criminal and inexcusable.
And
and
an
for this
he
obstacle
which nothing but the grace of God can surmount.
Hence
"
is
this
is
the apostle John, speaking of true believers, says,
They were
born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh,
nor of the will of man, but of God."

doctrine
is
indeed
greatly disliked
gives so humbling a view of our
John
13.
This
by many, because
own
character and
it
state,
and so much opposes our own pride and self-sufficiency.

if we give any credit
we must yield to it. Real Christians
are said to "be born of God ;" " born from above ;" born
They are also said to be " quickened, who
of the Spirit.
It is,
however, the truth of God; and
to the Scriptures,
THE NEW
were dead
is
plainly show
All which expressions
in sin."
that regeneration
BIRTH.
work
the
work of
of God, and not the
man.
These remarks are intended
wrong
caution the reader against
to
WHAT
sible,
Let us now go a
notions of the nature of religion.
much
step further, and point out with as
THE CHANGE which
IS
people of God, without exception
who
the difference between one
is
wrought
what
plainness as pos-
it
and one who
is,
in all the
which makes
is
is
not born
again.
The
design of this change
was made
at first in the
eousness, and holiness

fellowship and
make man
is to
image of God,
Man
holy.
knowledge, right-
and he then enjoyed the most happy
communion with him.

But by the
were the same.
in
His duty and delight
he became obnoxious
fall
to
the divine wrath, and disobedient to the divine will in his
prevailing
He became
inclinations.
The
Creator.
design of regeneration
the image of God, and
to the exercise
his prevailing disposition
the
glorify
1.
glorify
restore
be the same as
supreme and chief end be
that our
is to
man
to
of love to him, so that

it
was before
change, therefore, consists in these two
The
fall.
things
may
com-
disinclined to
the creature before the
munion with God, and preferred
to
serve and
God and
Our supreme and chief end must he to serve and
God ; and every other aim must be subordinate to
that the soul rest in
God, as
its
chief good.
this.
All things were

the display of
made
creature ought to seek
The
sin
of
for the glory of
divine perfection
man
this.
consists
his heart
is,
But no natural man seeks

in
withdrawing
from God, and refusing subjection
guage of
God, that
and practice
is,
for
and every reasonable
to
"
his will.
Our
it.
his allegiance
lips are
The
lan-
our own,
THE NEW
who
lord over us ?"
is
owns
and the obligation of
such force that
it
Maker's right
his
gives this disposition of mind

it
The
will prevail.
own happiness supremely.
seeks his
to rule,
creatures to submit to his will.
all
God
In regeneration,
But the renewed person sees and
dependence upon God,
his
gives
BIRTH.
and
man
natural
This determines his
choice of employments, enjoyments, companions.
His
re-
ligious actions are not chosen, but submitted to, for fear of
worse.
Jn short, he hath forgotten his subjection
dethroned
said he, " will
any man,"
up
himself, and take
come
insisted
first
and highest desire of him that
may
and
him deny
let
To
and follow me."
his cross,
in the heart, then,
men
is
on self-denial.
me,
after
God
hence we
God
honored, loved, and served, in his
is
Hence, our Lord so much
room.
" If
and self
serve him in the
to
learn the reason
the
And
born again.
is
why
honor
life, is
profane and worldly
are generally self-righteous, while the truly pious abhor
Natural
themselves, on account of sin.
sense of their obligation to glorify
words, and actions

religion,
something
is
hand, those
due
who
God with
might.
They
love
more than
all
men have no
just
in their thoughts,
and therefore, whatever they do
they look
God
upon as meritorious, and think
to
them on
their heart,
On
that account.
are born of God,
know
it
is
the other
their duty to
and serve him with
all
see that could this be perfectly done,
their duty,
in
that
their
it is
no
and there could be no plea of merit.
But when they consider
their sins,
and how
far short of
duty
they come in every instance, they ask for mercy, and not
for
reward.
2.
its
In regeneration, the soul
is
brought
to rest in
God
as
chief happiness, and habitually to prefer his favor to
every other enjoyment.

those alone, are happy,
VOL.
III.
The
believer sees that those, and
whose God
34
is
the Lord, and that
THE NEW BIRTH.
6
those
who
men
place their supreme happiness in something that
him must
are afar off from
In this they
not God.
all
All natural
perish.
ways
agree, though the
in
There
they seek for worldly happiness are innumerable.

is
but one
ciency of
way
all
to
peace, and
neglected, the insuffi-
worldly enjoyments makes them
earthly comfort to another,

the vanity of
if that is
them
The change
till
they
is
which
fly
from one
by sad experience
feel
all.
that takes place in regeneration, in no small
degree, consists in a strong inward conviction of the vanity
of every kind, and a
of worldly enjoyments
and enjoyment of God
that the favor

rior to
them
to
lowest,
the
from the oldest
from the
to the
richest
show us any good
will
of thy countenance upon me.
my
more than
heart,
to
the
poorest,
Every such one
youngest.
able to say, with the Psalmist, "
Who
differences there
may
be found in every child of God, from the high-
be, this will

est
Whatever other
all.
persuasion
infinitely supe-
is
There be many
and
will be
that say.
thou up the light
Lord,
lift
Thou
hast put gladness in
in the time that their corn
and wine
increased."
Thus
it
appears that in regeneration there
of the moral image of
man
is
in
him as
as his highest end,
in the progress of sanctification,
gradually improved
It is
and
shall:
pleted at the resurrection of the just.
moral law
and
soul,
is,
to
This discovery,
his chief good.
but begun on earth.
love the
be fully com-
The sum
Lord our God with
and strength, and mind.
a renewal
The renewed
the heart.
him supremely, serves him
loves
and delights
however,
God upon
is
This
is
all
of the
our heart,
the duty of
every creature, and regeneration consists in communicating this love to the soul, which gradually gains the ascen-
dency, and habitually prevails over
its
opposite.
;:
NEW
BIRTH.
consider by
what
THE
We
may now
MEANS THIS CHANGE

be wrought
that
at
any
but canst not

so
is
time, in
it
listeth,
tell
is
shall only speak of
substance,
common
It is
true,
it
may
any manner, and by any means
shall
"
seem proper.
The wind
and thou hearest the sound
whence
every one that
and by what
steps
BROUGHT ABOUT.
IS
Wisdom
to infinite
bloweth where
it
cometh, and whither
thereof,
it
born of the Spirit." John 3
goeth
We
8.
such steps in the change as are, in
to all true converts.
THERE MUST BE A DISCOVERY OF THE REAL NATURE OF GOD.

Those who are
in a natural state, are often described as
lying in ignorance and
They have
from the
darkness.
They know
not God.
" the understanding darkened, being alienated
God through
of
life
the ignorance that
the change which the

ness, ignorance,
standing
God
is
them,
18.
In
Spirit accomplishes, this dark-
The
and blindness, are dispelled.
under-
enlightened, the true character and nature of
are discovered, and his glorious perfections seen in
all their lustre.
sable
Holy
in
is
because of the blindness of their hearts." Eph. 4
is this
It
will be easily perceived
part of the
momentous work
how
for
indispen-
it is
impos-
sible that that should be a
man's chief motive of
supreme object of
of which he has no degree of
such as he
desire,
God must be known
knowledge.
is
must be seen
and no
in
false
in
his spiritual
real
his
image placed
action, or
character,
in his stead.
He
nature as almighty in his
power, unsearchable in his wisdom, inviolable in his truth

but, above
all,
and hatred of
to
he must be seen as
sin,
infinite
in
his holiness
impartial in his justice, and determined
punish the transgressor.
THE NEW
BIRTH.
II.
THERE MUST BE A DISCOVERY OF THE INFINITE GLORY OP

GOD.
He must
really
is,
not only be seen to be such a being as he
but there must be a sense of the infinite worth,
beauty, and perfection of his character.

to
know, and another
God, as
the one sinful, and the other holy.
There are
hol)^
must be
it
and jealous.
the,
it
so,
They
him
oppose
by carnal reason-
The
reason
sets the opposition of their
must be held
in abhorrence.
is
own
The consequence
in the strongest light.
or themselves
it
most odious names.
Such a view of God
hearts to
God
and
cannot endure the scriptural representation of
and give
plain.
things
natures are
many who
ings,
one thing
is
It
Men may know
approve.
when
which they hate

opposite,
to
is,
There
must, therefore, be a discovery of the glory and beauty of

the divine nature
an entire approbation of every thing in
God, as perfectly right and
which doth not appear
that
to
him
very foundation on which
this
men
sin,
continue in the love of
fly
change
from a holy God, as our
And
lovely.
is
can love
this is the
built.
While
impossible they should
it is
see the beauty of infinite lioliness
and
No man
faultless.
they will hate holiness,

first
parents did in the
garden.
III.
THERE MUST BE A CONVICTION OF SIN AND DANGER.

If an entire
change be necessary, there must be a
satisfaction with
our past character
whoever
dis-
is
pleased
will neither desire nor accept of a change.
Those
with
it,
who
are not humbled for
sin,
will treat with
contempt a
purchased pardon and a crucified Saviour. This our Lord
THE NEW BIRTH.

"
us in the plainest terms.
tells
They
"I came
not a physician, but they that are sick/*'
his invitation is particularly addressed

all
"
Come
not to
To
but sinners to repentance."
righteous,
call the
whole need
that are
these
unto me,
you
will give
rest.'"'
From
yond
these passages and
many
others,
it is
evident, be-
must be a deep humiliation
contradiction, that there
of mind and sense of guilt and wretchedness, before a sin-
The
ner can be brought unto God.
source of this humil-
iation is
a sense of the evil and desert of sin.
found
true penitents, and
in
repentance unto
life
is
distinguishes
from every counterfeit.
Many have
is
this
trembled through fear of punishment from God,
and died strangers
This
that
it
to
this
change
who
lived
they had no just sense
of the evil of sin in itself j no cordial approbation of the

holiness of God's nature and law, or of the justice of that
condemnation which stands written against every transgressor.
Here
is
the cardinal point on
Without
turns.
may
this there
true humiliation.
There
is
which true repentance
be a slavish terror, but no
often as great, or a greater de-
gree of terror, in convictions that prove

others
in
which end
in a saving
change.
The
ciple that
distinguishes their nature, and
site effects.
of an angry
as in
passion of fear
Cain or Ahab, was perhaps equal in degree
of any true penitent recorded in Scripture.
its
fruitless,
It
to the fear
is
the prin-
produces oppo-
The one is alarmed through fear of the wrath

God the other is truly sensible of sin in all
;
malignity, and feels the sanction of a righteous, but vio-
lated law.
The one
feels
himself a miserable creature
other confesses himself a guilty sinner.
and the other humbled.

VOL.
111.
34*
The one
the
is terrified,
NEW
THE
10
BIRTH,
IV.
THERE MUST BE AN ACCEPTANCE OF SALVATION THROUGH

THE CROSS OF CHRIST.
This
the
is
When
work.
last
new
completed, the
is
spiritual
and
seed
is
of the glorious
step
evidence of the change
nature exhibits
all
its
and hath taken
implanted,
by degrees,
will arrive,
finishing
this is attained, the
measure of maturity which
it
pleaseth
God each
and
every vessel of mercy,
in
The
parts.
root
it
to that
shall pos-
sess before he be carried hence.
Before conviction of
always appears
to
be
example prompt the sinner

Saviour, there
any inward
is
no
the Gospel of Christ
sin,
Or,
foolishness.
if
almost
education and
speak with reverence of a
to
distinct perception of the
relish of the sweetness of
meaning, nor
But
Gospel truth.
who have been wounded in spirit, begin to perceive

its unspeakable value.
The helpless state of the sinner
makes him anxiously inquire, " What must I do to be
those
saved
to
all
have no excuse
to offer,
nor any shelter
to
be against me.
into the
O,
how
fearful a thing
hands of the living God
is
it
What would
destruction.
good ground
my
and
my
to believe that
peace made with God
With what eagerness
now
not do,
inquire after the
what would
guilt
pit
of
unknown, does the sinner
life
With what
!
solicitude
The Sab-
and ordinances, and word of God, are now quite
ferent from
what they were
sacred time,
in
of
not give,
were taken away,
does he go forth by the footsteps of the flock

baths,
fall
!"
before
way
seem
to
have awaked as out
of a dream, and find myself fast hastening to the
for
to fly
the works, the word, and the providence of God,
business or in
dif-
No more waste of that

play. No more serenity of
before.
THE NEW
because he had
heart,
BIRTH.
been regularly and constantly
al
church, but an astonishing view of the sins of his holy

things
No more
careless, formal, heartless worship.
his
indifferent, slothful,
may commend
or critical hearing the word, that he
the ability, or deride the
weakness of the
God was in Christ, reconThe very news of salvation,

ciling the world to himself."
It
the bare mention of pardon, is now a joyful sound.
Now, he
preacher.
hears that
''
rouses his attention, and he sets himself to weigh the important intimation.
world that he gave

believeth in
hears
him should not
whom
fended
"
that
God
perish, but
"Is there then," says
life."
God,
He
have everlasting
"hope of mercy with
he,
Hath he indeed loved a guilty world
manner
how wonderful
the
gift,
of-
Hath he
as to send his only
begotten Son to save them from destruction

the giver,
the
whosoever
have so long forgotten, and so greatly
loved them in so amazing a
is
so loved
his only begotten Son, that
How
great
and how undeserving
the objects of his love !"
This
is
a brief sketch of the steps by
change
is
effected in the heart.
It
may
reformed
be
its
we close, to mention some of

and fruits of regeneration.
heart being renewed, the

;
and holiness, in
all
life
of himself
of the
is
born again,
by new apprehensions
life
world
of course, be
conversation, will
He who
natural and genuine effect.
God
will,
manner of
discovers his new nature and
of
this great
be proper, before
the principal evidences
The
which
of Jesus
Christ
and
of the ordinances of his appointment.
The
regenerate person has
new views of God.
He
really and inwardly believes the being, presence, power,
and providence of God.
Formerly, God was seldom
in his
THE NEW
12
thoughts
BIRTH.
now, he can scarcely look upon any thing with-
out considering
Above
all,
What
relation to him.
its
does his opened eye behold in
all
what an astonishing view he has of the divine
goodness and love, which he sees in
which he
least of
He
a lustre and glory
the divine perfections!
has quite
not worthy
is
mercies, of the
new apprehensions of himself.

own master but now he
thought himself his

belongs to God.
obligations,
all his
Before, he
sees that he
He remembers
and mourns
his Creator, confesses his
A converted
for his transgressions.
He
sinner stands astonished at his former conduct.

at the boldness of
blaspheming, perhaps rioting in sensuality and
wonders
that the
power of God did not
by some
course, and
monument of
signal
stroke
arrest
make him
righteous indignation.
his
think of his former state
ment of
wonders
a poor guilty rebel, perhaps cursing and
and
it
He
He
lust.
him
in his
a dreadful
trembles to
excites a lively acknowledg-
the riches of divine grace.
This
is
connected with, and increased by his views of
The charm
the world, and o^ worldly men.
is
now broken
the false colors are taken off from the world and
enjoyments.
How
ardently did he once love them
all
!
its
How
eagerly did
he pursue them, and how did he envy the
possessors of
them
But now, he can never separate
idea of riches from temptation
the
and often considers the
dreadful change which awaits those
who
are clothed in
purple and fine linen, and fare sumptuously every day

but
who
will be, in a
little
time, tormented
Formerly, he valued persons by their

wealth
in
hell-fire.
station, genius,
and
but now, a Christian in a cottage appears more
amiable than a blasphemer in a palace.

Further: the regenerate person has
of eternity.
new apprehensions
Formerly, the vanities of time engaged his
THE NEW
thoughts, and eternity
BIRTH.
was seldom
^3
view
in
but now,
it is
frequently and strongly upon his mind, so as to correct the

false representations of sense,
treated as fabulous
down
as weighs
and oppose the unjust claims
Formerly, unseen things were
of earthly gratifications.
now, there
such a discovery of them
is
created things, and
all
makes them
feel light
new views
of Jesus
as a feather in a balance.
The
regenerate person has also
Christ, the great
and only Saviour of sinners.
was "without form

to his
but now, the

is
out his love.

is
or comeliness," all the truths relating
person and offices were treated with indifference;
language
he
Before, he
name of a Saviour is precious. The strongest

weak to express his gratitude and breathe
" He is the chief among ten thousand
yea,
too
altogether lovely."
new views of the

They were formerly
Again, the regenerate person has

ordinances of Christ's appointment.
his
burden
now, they are his delight.
wore a sable garb, and an
ofiensive
Before, the Sabbath
gloom
now, he
a delight, the "holy of the Lord, and honorable."
water of
thirsts after the
He now
word of God.
the
life,
calls
it
Now, he
esteems, loves, and desires the
readily joins the holy Psalmist in
fervent expressions of his affection to the truth and
O how love I thy

My soul thirsteth
day.
ordinances of God.
meditation
all
the
"
see thy power and thy glory, so as
law
it
is
have seen thee
my
To
for thee.
in the
sanctuary."
In short, a change takes place in his whole character
and conduct.
heart by the
"
The
love of
God
Holy Ghost," and
ciple of all his
future actions.
is
is
shed abroad in his
the
The
commanding
love of
source, the sum, and the perfection of holiness.

duties naturally flow
from
it;
nay,
all
God
prinis
the
All other
other duties are
THE NEW
X4
BIRTH.
nothing but the expressions of
The
it.
believer
the constant influence of gratitude to God.
thankfulness
a bountiful benefactor for mercies
to
under
is
not merely
It is
which
have not been deserved, but a deep sense of obligation

a Saviour,
who
'
loved him, and washed him in his
blood;" so that his language
me
have
do
to
my
small part of
what means
thy laws in
to
show
"Lord, what
is,
knew how
infinite obligations
O, that
wilt thou
might repay some

I
might magnify and do thee honor.
my
that
O, that
heart,
and enable
me
in
in
it,
and
knew by
Write
every possible
love thee, because thou hast
This plainly includes
to
own
first
way
loved me."
will certainly produce,
the most sincere and fervent love to his fellow-creatures.

If they are had
cern
men, the same love
for his glory,
which
fills
to
God, the same con-
the Christian with grief and
indignation at their daring offences, inspires the most ardent
And
desire for their recovery and salvation.
as
to
men, they are united by the tenderest and strongest
good
ties,
and love one another with a pure heart fervently.
Thus we have taken

ject
me now
Let
a brief view of this important sub-
a subject in which every reader
pages, to bring the matter to a
As
men are
To which
all
ask,
is
trial
deeply interested.
who
earnestly entreat every one
peruses these
with regard to himself.
either regenerate or unregenerate, let
him
We
are
of these classes do
dropping into the grave from day
to
belong
day, and our state
is
What aswhether we shall
then fixed beyond the possibility of a change.

tonishing folly to continue in uncertainty
go
to
heaven or
hell,
whether we shall be the companions
of angels, or associates with blaspheming devils to

nity
all eter-
Nothing, therefore, can be more salutary, than that
you make an impartial search
into
your present character
THE NEW
and
at
BIRTH.
If you have ground
state.
15
conclude that you are
to
peace with God, what an unspeakable source of joy and
consolation
If otherwise, there is
ening from the brink of the
no time
to lose in hast-
Be persuaded,
pit.
then, to enter
Let every one,
immediately on the duty of self-examination.
without exception, take up or renew this grand inquiry

Christ
I in
God
a child of
me
Let
That
?
Am
is,
or do
new
creature, or not
Am
continue an heir of hell
I still
"Am
may
repeat in your ears this solemn truth, and
God Almighty, by his Spirit, carry it to your hearts " Except a man be born again, he cannot enter into the kingdom
of God."
And remember this is a great, a universal, an
:
inward, a divine change.

reformation.
Every
ordinance.
with
God
It is
more than mere outward
far
more than baptism, or any outward
It is far
child of
Adam
is,
by nature,
and must either be renewed
mind, or perish eternally.
It is
enmity
at
in the spirit of his
of no consequence what you
God
are as to outward station, if you are not reconciled to

it
of no consequence what you are as to outward
is
fessions,
if
you are not inwardly changed.
respecter of persons
God
prois
no
and, therefore, whether you are high
or low, rich or poor, whether
you are of one denomination
of Christians, or another, if you have not been the subjects
of a renewing and sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, you

are children of wrath
"go away
But
to
is
and
into everlasting
there
now no
to
him
for refuge.
but the blood of Christ

is
you
die in that condition,
relief? Yes, there is
save to the uttermost,
Fly
if
all
come
that
There
is
no
to
Jesus
wash
him
free.
If
you
perish,
it
is
" able
God by him."
sin of so
is sufficient to
is
it
deep a dye,
out.
no slave of Satan so loaded with chains, but Christ
to set
must
punishment."
of yourself.
There
is
able
have
given you warning, from a sincere and ardent concern for

THE
IQ
your everlasting
sake,
with
by
his
interest
Holy
NEW
and
;;
BIRTH.
may God
himself, for Christ's
persuade you
Spirit, effectually
to
comply
it.
MY SPIRIT SHALL XOT ALWAYS STRIVE.

Say, siimer, hath a voice within.
Oft whispered to thy secret soul.
Urged thee
And
to leave the
yield
tliy
ways of sin.
heart to God's control
Hath something met thee
in the path
Of worldliness and vanity.

And pointed to the coming wTath,
And warn'd thee from that WTath
to flee ?
it was a heavenly voice

was the Spirit's gracious call
Sinner,
It
It
bade thee make the better choice.
And
haste to seek in Christ thine
Spurn not the
Regard
That
call
And
call to life
in time
tlie
and
all.
light,
warning kind
thou may'st not always slight.
yet the gate of mercy find.
God's Spirit will not always strive
With
Ye who
May
harden'd, self-destroying
never hear his voice again.
^perhaps
Sinner
Thy
man
persist his love to grieve,
last
this
very day
accepted time
may be
Oh, shouldst thou grieve him now away.
Then hope may never beam on
thee.
]\o.
99.
THE BENEFITS
OF
SAICTiriED AFELICTIOIS.
Apostate man
upward.
This
is
born unto trouble, as the sparks
is
the language of inspiration, and
it is
fly
the
While God is daily conferring

same time bearing constant testimony against our sins, by giving to us the cup of sorrow.
Disappointed hopes, losses, pains, and death, must be endured
by man. Roses, scattered by the side of his path through
life, are found to grow on thorns.
His present state is a
language of experience.
favors upon us, he
is at
state of disappointment
ought
It
from our
It is
we
good
for his spiritual

to learn
me
vealed will.
derive benefit
He
have been
afflicted, that
found his trouble operating
statutes, or to
He was
excited
by
study and obey his
re-
Divine truth became sweeter than honey to
His love
his taste.
that
and everlasting good.
God's
to
shall be enabled to say, with the
for
might learn thy statutes."
them
trial.
If they be sanctified to us, as they are
afflictions.
Psalmist, "
and
be our constant endeavor
to
God's people,
to all
the
to
God's character, law, government,
and grace was increased, and he was engaged
way
of his
to
run the
delight.
the design of this Tract to point out
is
It
commandments with greater
some of the
EVIDENCES AND BENEFITS OF SANCTIFIED AFFLICTIONS

if
shall be the
it
means of imparting true
afflicted soul, the writer will

1.
Our
afflictions
God
is
and
any
have an abundant reward.
promote our best good when
ledge and adore the hand of
consolation to
God
the universal Creator.
we acknow-
in bringing them
upon us.
All creatures and events,
both in the natural and moral world, are, and for ever must
VOL.
III.
35
SANCTIFIED AFx^LICTIONS.
2
remain under
If creatures
government.
liis
their existence of themselves, they
Some contend
ent of God, and might control his designs.
God maintains
that
a general providence, but not a particu-
works of
lar one, over the
his
hand
and represent
beneath the dignity of the Infinite Mind
But
parts of creation.
could hold
would become independ-
as
it
regard the minute
to
such persons consider, that a
let
general providence implies the government of
all
the par-
composed, and that
all
parts of
which
ticular things of
it is
the divine plan are connected, and therefore a denial of a

particular providence goes to a denial that
God governs
the
There may be a connection, which is discerned in

the divine mind, between the opening of a flower and the
world.
rise of a nation
the direction of a mote, and the
Though such knowledge
empire.
is
of an
fall
too high for us,
it
is
mind of Jehovah, and heightens the idea

When we consider him as govgreatness.
not too high for the
of his infinite
erning
may
all
creatures and events, both great and small,
discover something of that glory which
we
demands our
admiration and praise.

It is
abundantly revealed in the Holy Scriptures, that
the evils which
men endure
not done it?"
Amos
Most High proceedeth not

It is
is
are inflicted by divine Provi-
" Shall there be evil in a
dence.
unnecessary
to
city,
and the Lord hath
6.
"Out
evil
and good
of the mouth of the
abundantly revealed in the inspired volume.
a fact that our troubles were the

or blind
fate,
Lam.
38.
spend time in proving a doctrine which
we must
fruit
If
it
were
of accident or chance,
be inconsolable under them.
But we
are certain that " affliction cometh not forth of the dust,
neither doth trouble spring out of the ground."
We may be rationally convinced, that the

we endure proceed from the hand of God and
;
practically refuse to acknowledge and
There
is
evils
yet
which
we may
adore his agency.
a wide difference, in the present case, between ac-
SANCTIFIED AFFLICTIONS.
knowledging and murmuring, and acknowledging and adorThe former conduct characterizes the wicked the
ing.
;
latter characterizes the righteous.
was
to
there between the
What
a vast difference
acknowledgment which Pharaoh paid
Jehovah, and that which was paid by Moses.
was compelled
to
in bring-
made
this con-
ing the plagues upon Egypt

fession, his heart rose
their
Pharaoh
acknowledge the hand of Jehovah

;
but while he
up against the church of
Israel
Moses acknowledged the divine hand
God.
and
in bring-
ing judgments upon the Egyptians and* the Israelites, and at
same time he adored
the
or reverenced
ing his wrath against the disobedient.
him who was revealThe devils acknow-
ledge the existence of the only living and true
moment of
the
rejoice, in a
nite
higher or lower degree, in the dominion of
way
When
him
in
but in
government, in the most trying seasons, and
wisdom and
out in a
All the godly have a pleasing belief
are filled with pain.

in the divine
God
the confession, they tremble with horror, and
They
love.
see the hand which
of correction, as well as in a
Job's substance and children
one day, he said, "
is
infi-
stretched
way of mercy.
were taken from
The Lord gave, and the Lord hath

name of the Lord." And when
taken away, blessed be the

the
Lord smote him with " sore
foot
unto his crown, and he took him a potsherd to scrape
himself withal, and sat down

to
the
bitter
biles,
among
from the sole of his
the ashes," he replied
reproaches of his wife,
"
What shall we
we not receive
lips."
The apos!
receive good at the hand of God, and shall

In
evil ?
tle
saith,
did not Job sin with his
all this
Heb. 12
9,
" Furthermore,
of our flesh which corrected us, and
ence
spirits,
shall
and
we
live
we have had fathers

we gave them rever-
not rather be in subjection to the Father of
?"
From
these instances, with
which might be adduced, it is evident

knowledge and adore the divine hand,
upon them.
If,
when we
are afflicted,
many more
men ac-
that pious
in laying the load
we
eventually find
SA^X'T1FEED AFFLICTIONS.
our minds driven further from God and a cheerful acknow-
ledgment of
his chastising hand,
But
alarmed.
we have
just cause to be
enter into the furnace of affliction, that
first
saken
because
us,
we have
not that lively sense of his per-
fection
and his providence which we
fore.
If
we
when we
God hath for-
us not conclude in a moment,
let
may have had
hereto-
tumult
find within ourselves, that amidst all the
and darkness of our minds, we have a fixed determination

to trust in
God though he
couragement
to hope' that
slay us,
we
shall find
some
en-
hereafter light will break in upon
our minds, and that the present scourge will yield the peace-,
able fruit of righteousness.
So long as we look no higher than second causes

the author of our troubles,
and
shall
murmur
we
shall
at his dealings.
pay no homage
to find
to
God,
Let the heart be placed
upon the perfect character and government of the Most

High, and we shall be
and
the
shall,
Old Testament and
Him who
towards
from complaining of our
stilled
is
in the
New,
feel
a holy reverence
pleased to chastise us.
for the present is joyous, but grievous

tified, it
lot,
with Moses, Job, David, and other saints, both in
produces a peace and a joy
to
No
affliction
when it is sancwhich the men of this

;
but
work together for the good

of them that love God, and the light and momentary afflictions of this life will work for them a far more exceeding
world are strangers.
All things
and eternal weight of glory in the world to come.

2. It is good for us to have been under the rod, when
we
are led
to
a dear discovery of our
sins,
and a cordial
ac-
hioivledgment of the divijie justice and wisdom in our chastisement.
"I know,
and that thou,
Lord, that thy judgments are right,
in faithfulness, hast afflicted
me."
The eyes
of the pious Psalmist were opened more clearly than ever
upon
his sins,
and he
felt
that
God was
perfectly just in the
present affliction.
Job says, in his address
to the
Lord, near the close of
SANCTIFIED AFFLICT10x\S.
heavy
his long and
"
trials,
have heard of thee by the
now mine eye
hearing of the ear, but
seeth thee ; whereabhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes." Observe
the language of the faithful, while Jerusalem lay in ruins,
fore
and
its
inhabitants
into captivity
man
were either
punishment of
for the
by the sword, or gone
slain
" Wherefore doth a living
his sins
man
complain, a
Let us search and
The
try our ways, and turn again to the Lord."
penitent
Jews, after their return from Babylon, confessed that
was
God
had brought upon them; that he had

they had done wickedly.
just in all that he
done
right,
The
and that
primitive Christians, while they
imprisonment, and were exposed
to
were
bonds and
in
meet death
among
dreadful forms, had a deep impression that they were

the chief of sinners, and
being accounted worthy
Even
most
in its
thought themselves honored by
to sutler
shame
for Christ's
name.
Christians have but a small degree of knowledge
of the depravity of their hearts, and the sins of their

until they are called to pass
Prosperity
tion, to
is
apt to lull the
slacken
its
mountain seemeth
mind
to sleep, to
watchfulness, and
How
all its exertions.
through some painful
to
natural
to
will
devo-
its
throw a languor over
is it for
stand strong, that
moved, or that adversity
abate
lives,
trials.
us to say,
we
when our
never be
shall
never overtake us
When
Christians are indulging this frame, they are preparing the
way
to
meet with some disappointment, worldly
reavement, or
God
is
to
be scourged in their
pleased to
afflict
all
the
loss or be-
persons.
They will
reasons why God
to
them the
titness, the
self-
not pretend to the

is
now contending
with them, but they will see enough in themselves
cover
When
them, they will be roused to
examination and prayer.
knowledge of
own
to dis-
necessity, and the justice of
the present rod.
Instead of wondering at the present correction, they will

rather wonder that they have escaped so long, and have
VOL.
III.
35*'
much
enjoyed so
his afflictions, "
and that
am
deserve
Sdilh the patient Christian in
prosperity.
I
convinced that
How
the wicked, in time and in eternity.
God which made me

Rock of my salvation
!'
throne in
my
am
a great sinner
the expressions of divine wrath against
all
how have
'
!'
have
have refused
have shamefully neglected
to
give
to
and have been setting up
heart,
'
forsaken
esteemed the
lightly
God
the
idols there.
reverence God's
name and
day, and have attended the ordinances of his house with

coldness and inditlerence.
on the
faith
once delivered
valiant for the truth
have not placed a just value
and have not been
to the saints,
How
upon the earth.
unfaithful have
I owe to my
commonwealth
I have
neglected to instruct, counsel, and warn those to whom I
have had near access and have said to them, by my ex-
been
which
in the discharge of the duties
family, to the church, and to the
ample, that religion
of no importance, and that worldly
is
What abundant
glory constitutes the happiness of man.
cause have
much
mourn
I to
my fellow-men
my enemies and
malice towards
unwilling
to forgive
to rejoice at their
I
before God, that
indulged, and
overthrow
mercy, or the
the Gospel require.
that
have been so
have been so ready
done
thoughts have
encourage the
to
have not maintained the
truth,
which the divine law and
have coveted
stance and enjoyments
have indulged so
What impure
how much have
licentious in their conduct

justice, the
my
have envied
neighbor's sub-
his superior pros-
perity and gifts, and have been discontented with the place
assigned
men
ers,
me
How
"
!
And
how
in the world.
often have
since
despised the only Saviour of sinful
have been numbered among
unfaithful have
profession
and
in
been
to
to
death.
his follow-
the duties of
have solemnly engaged
own no more, and

in life
to
my
holy
view myself as
my
be wholly devoted to the Redeemer,
How
cold have been
my
affections
towards him, who
sought
to
shun the
joy the smiles of an ungodly world

of infinite worth, but
have refused
promote
it
In
to en-
kingdom is
as became
this world.
deep humiliation, that
for
and
cross,
Christ's
to
me, and have symbolized with the god of
my
God with us
the great Immaiiuel,
is
how many ways have
abundant cause
have
have abused
mercies, and have been so incorrigible under afflictions.
Many promises of amendment have

little
regard
my
to
broken, and
covenant bonds.
have paid
might justly be
crushed by the present rod, and become a monument of
God's everlasting wrath.

complaint, were
should have no just cause of
deprived of
all
in the regions of eternal despair.
save me,
mercy.
sin,
and
beseech thee
Let
doomed
to
dwell
But O, thou God of grace
Correct
me
in
measure and
be the fruit of this affliction to take
it
me
prepare
to
hope, and
away
and enjoyment of thy-
for the service
When
self for ever !"
in
such are the breathings of the heart,
in a time of trouble, affliction is not sent in vain.
When
God's children are under the rod, they will be
convinced of the wisdom as well as the justice of the present

chastisement.
has not
Christian,
is
thy worldly substance taken
Thou wilt be led to inquire, whether thy heart

been too much placed upon it, and whether this ex-
from thee
traordinary attachment has not rendered
it
necessary that
thy present loss should be sustained.

Set thy affections more abundantly on things which are
above, and be more engaged than ever in laying up a treas-
ure in heaven.
Hast thou met with ingratitude and unkind-
ness from one of thy fellow-creatures, on
conferred
many benefits
Let
whom
serve to teach thee the folly of trusting in an
and engage thee
to trust in the living
doated on the person

heart
olence
to the trial,
God.
who now seeks
Let the reception of
thou hast
this requital of evil for
evil for
and engage thee
arm of
good
flesh,
Hast thou fondly
to pierce thee to
thy
good bring thy benevto imitate
thy Saviour
S.\NCTIF1ED AFFLICTIONS.
Hath God taken from thee,

by death, thy bosom friend, or the child of thy love ? Ask
thyself whether the deceased had not taken the place of
God in thy heart, and rendered the present blow a necesin the forgiveness of enemies.
Be assured
sary one for thy best good.

divorced from thy
idols,
must be
that thou
And
or from God.
as thou art one
of his children, he will take from thee the object of thy
Thy
idolatrous love.
case would be deplorable indeed, if
under thy bereavement thou couldst justly say, with Micah,

"
Ye have
taken
Art thou
away my
in a state of
what have
gods, and
more ?"
languishment, or pain of body, and
are wearisome days and wearisome nights appointed unto
thee
Inquire whether thou wast not too confident of the
continuance of health in former days, and whether thou
wast not unthankful
plish,
to
Him who was
the health of thy coun-
Perhaps thou hadst some favorite plan
tenance.
accom-
to
and wast confident that thy strength and vigor would
be continued until thou hadst realized thy strong hopes.

it
not just and wise in
God
to
presumption, by making thee

nostrils,
to bless
thy breath
to feel that
and that thou must soon be
thou not cause
Is
convince thee of thy arrogant
laid in the
God, that he
now
is
grave
is
in thy
Hast
teaching thee
the vanity of this world, and preparing thee for the joys of
a glorious immortality
We
are inclined to say, that
be better suited
to
some other
and that some other time would be a more

period that
we, what
affliction
would
promote our best good, than the present

time than the
fit
But how incompetent judges are

wisest and best to be done
If we were to be
was chosen.
is
our own judges in the present case, we should select a
and a time of suffering, which would lead us

cross,
and leave us strangers
indeed,
by planning
to
our
for ourselves,
difficulty than the present,
own
to
hearts.
trial,
avoid the
We
might,
be involved in far greater
and sink
into despair.
knoweth our particular frame and temper,
best
God, who
knoweth
when and how to try us, and hoAv long to continue us under
If we derive spiritual benefit from the afflictions
which we endure, we shall be humbled for our sins, and we
shall be still and know that the Lord he is God.
We shall
the rod.
no longer say, any other trouble rather than the present, and
any other time

shall say, "
to
endure
it
rather than the present
O Lord, thy will
but
we
be done, both as to the kind and
affliction.
Oh, cause me to adore thy justice
and thy wisdom, and humbly to implore thy mercy."
Those who make the knowledge of their hearts their
continuance of
study, will not pass through days of adversity without dis-
covering,
more than ever
before, their sins, nor without
viewing them in new points of aggravation.
had been forgotten
will be called
to
Sins which
remembrance, and the
aggravating circumstances which attended them will rush
upon the mind.
In the view of them, the
will feel that the divine justice
humble penitent
would have shone with
dis-
tinguished brightness in his eternal condemnation, and will
be excited with great and earnest importunity
implore
to
the divine mercy.

3.
The
subjects of sanctified
afflictions
will find
the
" Before
grace of the Gospel peculiarly endeared to thein.
I was afflicted," saith the Psalmist, " I went astray ; but
now have
was
love
more than ever
to
in his practice.
it
Here we may observe, that

by means of his afflictions, to
kept thy word."
the pious Psalmist
led,
the book of God's grace, and to conform
"
We
glory in tribulation
knowing
worketh patience, and patience experience,

and experience hope, and hope maketh not ashamed ; be-
that tribulation
God
cause the love of
Holy Ghost, which
is
is
shed abroad in our hearts by the
given unto us."
Rom. 5 3-5.
;
" For,
as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation

also
aboundeth by Christ.
in ourselves, that
God which
we
We
had the sentence of death
should not trust in ourselves, but in
raiseth the dead."
2 Cor.
5, 9.
SANCTUÎED AFFLICTIONS.
10
The more deeply any

sins,
are impressed with a sense of their
and of the divine justice
punishment, the more
in their
fully are they convinced of the necessity of Gospel grace,
and the more clearly do they see the glory of the Gospel
Seasons of suffering have often proved
plan of salvation.
The
seasons of high enjoyment to the people of God.
under their
in general,
trials,
were favored with abundant
communications of divine grace, and rejoiced
We
the glory of God.
who appear
that those
when
may
to
hope of
in
observe, at the present time,
be true Christians, shine brightest
To
in the furnace.
pa-
and the primitive Christians
prophets, .apostles,
triarchs,
them, Christ appears peculiarly
precious, and they appear, at times, to be cheerful in giv-
ing up
They
things for his sake.
all
discover that they
count not their lives dear unto themselves, that they
may
course with joy.
finish their
when under
Christians,
the rod, read the
tures with a special attention and
and manifest a strong

inspired volume.
Holy
Scrip-
uncommon engagedness,
relish for the truths contained in the
They now
God's word
feel that
is
a light
unto their feet and a lamp unto their path, while passing
through the darkness and temptations of the present world.

" This
tion, for
been
my
is
my
How
is
better unto
to
me
to
my
which
man under
the rod,
my
Yea,
parts of the Bible, par-
and the divine
understandeth, like the good
tribulation
worketh patience, and

?
Who
under-
how consolation aboundeth

The best of men
of chastisement ?
standeth, like the patient sufferer,

Christ, as the fruit
taste
many
patience experience, and experience hope
by
have
The law
than thousands of gold and
relate to sufferings,
how
afflic-
Afflictions are neces-
Who
support under them.
my
statutes
mouth."
lead us to understand
ticularly those
Thy
pilgrimage.
sweet are thy words unto
sweeter than honey

sary
my
songs in the house of
of thy mouth
silver.
comfort," says the Psalmist, "in
thy word hath quickened me.
do not
know how much they
trust in themselves
world, until their attachment
Now
and
in the
and broken by the
tried,
is
own
folly in
placing such confidence in the things which perish.
They
rod.
will bless
to
they see more fully than ever their
God
ever for that discipline which hath opened
for
them the pride and deceitfulness of their
brought them
dom which
hearts,
and hath
worth and glory of that king-
to discern the
cannot be moved.
True
Christians have rarely
when
so clear evidence of their adoption, as
their earthly
hopes are dashed in pieces.

4.
men
Sanctified afflictions lead
be more attentive to
to
the duties wliich they owe more im7nediately
a wide difference
prayers which are
which are made

themselves
made
Those who
not to
a rewarder of those
is
to the
them an unwelcome
this duty,
fill
their
diligently
task, but is the de-
way
of the per-
they will not rest until they have in
some degree obtained the

God.
who
they find Satan and their wicked
hearts striving to throw hinderances in the
their hearts to
feel
throne of grace, and seek for mercy.
When
light of their souls.
formance of
What
between the
day of adversity, and those
in prosperous seasons
God
seek him, will go

is
in a
God.
be burdened with guilt and sorrow, and are
to
convinced that
Prayer
to
there, in ordinary cases,
is
He
victory,
is
and can fervently pour out
pleased sometimes remarkably to
mouths with arguments, when
all
worldly appearan-
ces are against them, while they are bowing at his footstool
They are uncommonly

their families
race,
It
and
and especially
is
assisted in praying for themselves, for
friends, for enemies, for the

for the
painful to those
afflictions, to
whole human
peace and prosperity of Zion.
who
be deprived, by
ill
derive benefit
from their
health or other means, of
attending on the worship and ordinances of God's house.
These are objects
for
which they
find
an increasing
relish,
as they are emptied from vessel to vessel, by their trying
changes.
Hence, when they are excluded from the place
12
they love, they can adopt the language of David,
he was wandering
in the wilderness of
secutions of Saul
"
seek thee.
land,
I
My soul
art
my God
is
to see
Psalm 63
1, 2.
up
Sanctified afflictions are instrumental in stirring
5.
persons
thy power and thy glory, as
sanctuary."
in the
early will
dry and thirsty
thirsteth for thee in a
where no water
have seen thee
God, thou
when
Judea, by the per-
a faithful discharge of the duties of the second

tahJe of the law.
I here mention particularly the duty of
to
compassion and kindness

are
commanded
to those
who
are afflicted.
bear one another's burdens,
to
There are
brethren, to be pitiful, and to be courteous.
men whose inward
thought
that their houses shall con-
is,
tinue for ever, and their dwelling-places to
They
that
We
to live as
all
generations.
are intoxicated with their prosperity, and presume
no painful changes await them.
tempt upon the needy and
afflicted,
They
look with con-
and are disposed
to
charge them with bringing their troubles on themselves,

or continuing
them by
their
imprudence or
timidity.
"
Christianity speaks a very different language.
ber them that are in bonds, as bound with them
which
suffer
body."
the
Heb. 13
Nothing teaches persons
3.
and them
being yourselves also in the
as
adversity,
But
Remem-
to
for
feel
children of sorrow, like experience in the school of
adversity.
This eminently qualifies the followers of the
compassionate Saviour
to
to strive to lighten their
sionate feelings to all
those
who
They
who
strive to relieve the
afflicted,
and
extend their compas-
are in trouble, and especially to
friends of the
are the
bind up the broken
sympathize with the
woes.
Redeemer.
They
will
wants of those who are needy, and
spirit.
"
Who
comforteth us in
all
to
our
we may be able to comfort them which are

any trouble by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are
comforted of God."
2 Cor. 1 4.
They labor to turn the
tribulation, that
in
attention of their afflicted fellow-mortals to the only source
SAXCTIFIED AFFLICTIONS.
13
of consolation, and to prepare them for deliverance in the

present world, and immortal glory in the world to come.
They can
cheerfully
welcome
to their
bosoms the humble
and patient disciples of the blessed Saviour, however
much
Knowing
these
they are despised by the ungodly world.

to
be the excellent of the earth, they are compassionate and
them
Lord and Master's sake, and rejoice

them in the paradise
above, where all sorrow and crying shall be done away.
The enemies of the primitive Christians remarked concerning them, when they* saw their strong mutual affection
kind
to
for their
blessed prospect of meeting
in the
under their fiery
trials,
The
one another!"
" Behold
fall
wounds.
joint sufferings
check their animosities, and
When
of affection.
we have not been
these Christians love
out with each other, and give mutual
present world,
But
how
disciples of Christ sometimes, in the
have always been found
to unite
such are the
them
in the closer
fruits of
our
to
bonds
afflictions,
smitten in vain, but shall derive peace and
comfort from them in this world, and shall receive a far more
exceeding and eternal weight of glory

6.
from
in the
to
come.
men
in ripening them for death
and
earthly attachments,
heaven.
The
and
pious patriarchs confessed themselves, amidst
their troubles, to be pilgrims and strangers

to
world
Sanctified afflictions are instrumental in iveaning
on the
earth,
and
be looking for a city which hath foundations, whose build-
maker
er and
is
God.
The
primitive Christians took joy-
fully the spoiling of their goods,
knowing
that they
had in
heaven a better and an enduring substance.

Pious persons, who have suffered many pains, and en-
many outward
dured
losses
and bereavements, look upon
this
world as an empty place, and not by any means wor-
thy
to
God
While they give thanks
be sought as a portion.
for the
innumerable temporal blessings they have
to
re-
ceived, they dare not rest their hope of support and enjoy-
ment on any thing beneath the

VOL.
iir.
skies.
36
S.INCTIFIED AFFLICTIONS.
14
They can
discern no earthly prospect which has una-
duherated charms
but every thing around them wears the
They watch and pray

may not be ensnared by earthly allurements, and
that they may be in constant readiness for the approaching
change by death. The eternal world grows more and more
familiar to their minds, and their thoughts are much emappearance of decay and dissolution.
that they
ployed on that state into which they are soon
Many
enter.
to
of their meditations are employed on death and on the
future judgment.
their views will be
Although they cannot determine what
when they
shall*be called to
walk through
the dark valley, yet they believe that the end of the upright
man
They
be peace.
will
are
much
prayer
in
to
God
them in the hour of death and believe that the only way in which divine consolation is then
to be expected, is in a humble walk with God, and in the
that he will not forsake
faithful
What
discharge of every duty, while
a firm hope, and
joyed by the apostle,
life
when he could
declare, "
continued.
a building of God, a house not
For
wê
know
were dissolved,
that if our earthly house of this tabernacle
we have
is
what animating prospects were en-
made with
hands,
For in this we groan, earnestly

be clothed upon with our house which is from
eternal in the heavens.
desiring to
We
are confident, I say, and willing rather to be

absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord !"
heaven.
2 Cor. 5:
tle,
life
and
How
1, 2, 8.
earnestly desirous
But
yet what
am
if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit

I
shall choose
in a strait betwixt two,
depart, and to be with Christ,

:
apos-
to die is gain.
of my labor;
" not.
For I
was our
might be magnified in his body, whether by

He could say, " For me to live is Christ,
or by death
that Christ
which
wot," or know,
having a desire
is far
better."
to
Phil.
21-23.
Let not Christians

they have not risen
in general
to the
be discouraged because
attainments of the apostle Paul.
He was
raised up for eminent usefulness in the church of
God, and he did more
propagate Christianity than any
to
mere man who hath
other
15
He
lived.
suffered
much
labors to advance and defend the religion of the
To
Saviour.
oft,"
use his
language, he was " in deaths
while travelling round the world to proclaim the glad
tidings of peace
The
own
in his
blessed
and salvation through a crucified Saviour.
followers of Christ generally, have not been called to
such services as was the
apostle, nor to
as he endured, and therefore
it is
endure such
trials
not strange that their con-
But remember, ye payour labor of

love, and that he is training you up to serve him better on
God will
earth, and to enjoy a brighter crown in heaven.
not break the bruised reed, r.nd the smoking flax he will not
solations should fall far
tient sufferers, that
He
quench.
below
God
is
his.
not unmindful of
heareth every sigh, and every breathing of
you grace to persevere to

come off conquerors, yea, more
than conquerors, through Him who hath loved you, and
the contrite heart, and will give

the end of
your days, and
given himself
We
among
to die for
always
those
to
you.
find the
most heavenly-minded Christians
who have smarted most by
To
the rod.
them,
meditations have become familiar on that glorious state in
which the redeemed will be brought

presence of God and the Lamb, and
spirits
of just
men made
perfect,
in everlasting songs of praise.
into the
will
immediate
unite with the
and with the holy angels,
However
far they
may
fall
short of rapturous enjoyments in religion while they see
through a glass darkly, they discover a solidity and firmness

in their exercises,
\vith
which manifest
that their light
is
shining
increasing brightness unto the perfect day.
have now endeavored
some of
Can we
the
to collect
and bring
principal evidences of sanctified
into
view
afflictions.
say, in a review of our troubles, as the Psalmist
16
afflicted
his, " It is good for me that I have been

might learn thy statutes ?" Our afflictions
review of
did, in a
that
have certainly had some
effect
upon us
cither in render-
ing our hearts tender, and our lives obedient, or in hardening our hearts, and occasioning us to become more obstinate
and open
last
be the
wickedness than ever.
in the practice of
our case
effect,
much cause
to fear, that to
If the
alarming indeed, and we have
is
us
is
reserved the blackness of
darkness for ever.
Let us recollect the marks or evidences of sanctified

afflictions, wliich
have now been brought
into view,
and im-
compare ourselves with them. These are plain

rules of trial, and such as must commend themselves to our
minds.
If we have sought to regard them in our practice,
partially
when we have been
in tribulation, we have found true peace,

and can say with the Psalmist, that " it is good for us that
we have been
Are
afflicted."
there not
some who can
adopt this language, and find evidence that they are heirs
of heaven, and can say, in some happy moments, with the
Apostle, " I reckon that the sufferings of this present time
are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall
Rom.
be revealed in us?"
all
heavenly temper.
Let such maintain,
18.
at
and a devout, and a watchful, and a
times, a patient,
Their days of mourning
will soon
be
ended, and they will soon be admitted into the world of

everlasting light and glory.
How awful is the state of those who have become hardened

What can such expect, in the course
which they are pursuing, but everlasting misery ? " He that
in all their afflictions
being often reproved, hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be

destroyed, and that without
cause
is
there to fear that
remedy."
all
in the present world, are but so
world
to
to
come
the evils
many presages of wrath
Let them be warned
search and try their
Prov. 29 1. What
which they have felt
in the
them be entreated,
ways, and turn unto the Lord
let
Jo.
100.
THE
WEDDING GARMENT
A
WORTHY
upon one of
Monday morning, called

who had been kept from the sanc-
minister, early on
his hearers,
illness, and found him carefully reading the Bible.

"Well, Thomas," said his kind pastor, "you seem determined to be a Berean Christian ; which, by the way, is a
tuary by
peculiar privilege at
when some
to a level with the
sir," said
all
times, but especially in these days,
are disposed to raise the works of fallible
word of God."
Thomas, "
in these times ?"
"
is
"
men
Berean Christian,
that a new sect which has arisen

no," replied his pastor, " it is as
you may read about it in

more noble than those in
they received the word with all read-
old as the days of the apostles
Acts, 17: 11, 12, 'These were
Thessalonica, in that
iness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether
those things
were
also of honorable
not a few.'
Therefore many of them believed

so.
women which were Greeks, and of men,
"
Thomas.
Well,
like these Bereans.
can say
my
wish
be
think
hope the word of the Lord becomes
it
is
to
more and more precious to me.

Minister.
Ah, Thomas, if all the professors of religion
would read the Bible with prayerful attention, and with a
constant desire to be taught by the Holy Spirit, we should
them more firmly established and rooted in the faith,
and not driven about by every wind of doctrine. If we
wish to be established Christians, we must be diligent read36*
VOL. III.
see
THE WEDDING GARMENT.
volume ; then we shall " grow in grace, and

knowledge of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ."
What part have you been reading to-day 1
ers of the holy

in the
One of the parables, sir.

Our Lord very often taught
Minister.
Thomas.
by them.
Which
but for the mind.

read
Thomas,
parable,
his followers
a picture, not for the eye,
is
of the parables have you just
That of the marriage
Thobias.
feast, in the
22d of
St.
Matthew^s Gospel.
That
Minister.
rich provisions
made
is
an encouraging representation of the
for poor sinners in the Gospel,
willingness of our heavenly Father that
of them.
light of
grieves one to think that any should
It
How
and the
should partake
make
them.
Thomas.
sin
all
True,
long
sir
how long
but
was
guilty of that
heard the Gospel faithfully preached,
my
It is a mercy
heart to the Lord.
the Saviour.
came
to
at
last
when
I
that I
There is no casting out
Minister. Cast out, Thomas
He has said,
of sinners who come to Christ for mercy.
" All that the Father giveth me shall come to me
and him
without giving up
was
not cast out
that
cometh
Mark
to
me,
the words,
I will in
no wise cast out."
Thomas, "
who
come
reluse to
37.
will in no wise cast out :" un-
Those only are
der no circumstances whatever.

at last
John, 6
to Christ, that
they
cast out
may have
life.
Thomas.
Yes,
ble that sometimes
servants, "
Go ye
sir
but there
is
one part of the para-
makes me tremble.
The king
many
into the
highways, and gathered together
as they found, both bad
was furnished with guests."

the bad and the good
were
and good
all
e^s
and the wedding
Now,
sir,
gathered together, and
all
Matt. 22:
all
many
So those servants
as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.
went out
said to his
therefore into the highways, and as
9, 10.
THE WEDDIJNG GARMENT.
went
O,
to the
wedding
and yet one was not welcome.
feast,
fear that I shall be that one
Read
Minister.
"
Thomas.
And
the passage.
When
came
the king
man which had
he saw there a
ti
in to see the guests,
not on a wedding garment.
he saith unto Jiim, Friend, how camest thou in hither,
not having a
Then
wedding garment
And
said the king to the servants. Bind
and take him away, and cast him

shall be
You
he was speechless.
him hand and
into outer darkness
foot,
there
weeping and gnashing of teeth." Matt. 22 11-13.

away after all, though we may
:
see, sir, there is casting
come
to the feast.
Not
Minister.
Thomas.
if
we come according
Ah, there
to the invitation.
the point that has troubled me.
is
Now, did not the poor man come according to the invitation ?
The servants were to go into the highways, and as many
They
as they found they were to bid to the marriage.
found the poor man who was condemned by the king he
came when invited, and yet he was cast out.
Yes, but the reason is given, Thomas he
Minister.
"had not on a wedding garment."
:
Thomas. But there was nothing about the wedding garment in the invitation. The king only said, " Go ye therefore into the
highways, and as
the marriage."
the
many
as ye shall find, bid to
see, sir, there is nothing said
about
but supposing that
when
wedding garment.
Minister.
this
You
man came
No, there
to the
is
not
palace, the servants of the king told
him that, before he went in to the feast, he must put on a

wedding garment which the king had provided, and when
the servants offered the garment he refused to put it on, do
you not think he would then be worthy of condemnation ?
But was there one proSurely he would.
ThOxMAS.
vided
Minister.
No
doubt there was, for
it
was always
the
;:
custom
day
to
do
a custom which remains
so,
in the families of rich
present
to the
and great men
in the
Eastern
countries.
Thomas.
But there is nothing about it in the parable.

No, Thomas. As I told you, a parable is
it shows forth a
to the mind what a picture is to the eye
In a picture, there is some leading object to
great truth.
which the painter wishes to direct our attention so it is in
Minister.
Our Lord,
a parable.
custom which existed
referi'ed to a
is still
continued.
therefore
it
was
It
Gospel feast who came
ding garment
was
is
the
meaning of
He
once
was very anxious
to
his
gentleman,
in
the
told his friends the following fact
witness an Eastern wedding.
It is
celebrated at midnight, as described in the parable of
a rich
man
sent
marriage.
respect,
full
wed-
evangelists, and
To my
the ten virgins, in the 25th of Matthew.
ter's
this
sometimes called the Holy Land, the country
apostles lived.
still
great
to the
will explain the matter.
which the prophets, our Lord,
The
were welcome
parable.
died not long since, spent several years in Palestine,
which
"
and
the particulars of the
Minister.
who
sir,
that all
hearers
to his
feast,
and which
appointed way.
in the
But what,
all
in the
which Christ taught was,
Thomas.
in his days,
was well known
not necessary that
custom should be mentioned

truth
marriage
in the parable of the
me
I
an invitation
thought
and therefore
to
would pay
determined
to
dress of an English gentleman.
place where the wedding

friend,
who
was
inquired whither
to
great joy,
be present at his daugh-
my
go
host all possible
to the feast in the
On my way
be celebrated,
was going
to the
met a
told him,
But you cannot go as you are

The wedding
you have not on the wedding garment.'
garment?' I replied 'the wedding garment? I have no
wedding garment to put on.' My friend answered, 'Yes,
to the
wedding
feast.
'
'
you have if you go back to your house and inquire of

your servant, you will find that when the invitation was sent
you, a wedding garment was sent at the same time.
Go
:
back and
see.
feast without
You cannot be admitted to the marriage

On going back, I found a beautiful robe
for me to put on.
I then went, and received
it.'
had been sent
welcome
a hearty
but had
gone without
of the house would have been offended, and
been cast out."

king cast out the
it,
the master
should have
Now, Thomas, do you understand why the

man from the feast ?
Thomas. I think I do it was not because no wedding

garment was provided, but because the man refused to put
it on after it was provided.
:
Minister. Yes, that was the case and do you not

now see the guilt of the man, and the justice of the king ?
The king had not only given the invitation, but had pro;
So
vided the garment.
God has
in
is
it
the provisions of grace.
not only invited us to that rich marriage feast,
which he has spread
in
wife," as the church
is
called
The
for "
heaven
Bride, the
Lamb's
but has also sent, with the
wedding garment, which he requires every

That garment is the Righteousness of Christ,
wrought out, perfected, and presented at the same time with
and the first thing required of
the invitation of the Gospel
invitation, the
guest
to
wear.
every one,
You
whom
it is
thus sent,
wedding garment.
which we may learn from
.
it
on by
faith.
Sinners
loill
marriage feast
lessons
this parable.
not he cast out lecause there luas no yro-
The Gospel
are invited, and
may find mercy.
all
"
are
is compared to a
welcome to come
God
so loved the world,
whosoever believ-
God, that they
that he gave
all
have on the ready and the
There are three solemn
visionjiiade for their salvation.
to
put
condemnation, which
on every one among the professed disciples of Christ,
shall finally be found not to
offered
is to
see, therefore, the justice of the
will fall
who
to
THE WEDDING GAR3IEx\T.
6
eth
should not perish, but have everlasting life."
iiini
ill
John 3
The
16.
invitations of the Gospel, like those to
the marriage feast, are addressed to
"
them.
Whosoever
Rev. 22: 17.
freely."
able also to save
them
Heb. 7
by him."
will be lost forever

tion,
who
all
will listen to
him take the water of life

There is a Redeemer, "who is
the uttermost that come unto God
will, let
to
If the sinner refuse to come, he
25.
not because there
was no way of salva-
but because he refused to accept the free and merciful
offers of the Gospel.
Sinners must come to God in the tcaij ivliich he has

" I am the way, the truth, and the life," John,
2.
appointed.
14:6,
was welcome
wedding garment.
on the
vilege to do this.
in his
The
are our Saviour's blessed words.
the parable
own
The
to the feast,
Surely
poor
man
was
duty and
pri-
sinner never can appear before
God
He
rio;hteousness.
it
his
"
has none.
Our
rio;htcous-
nesses," the prophet says, " are as filthy rags." Isa. 64
We
are altogether defiled by sin
eous, no, not one."
in
provided he had put
Rom. 3
10.
"
There
How
is
none
6.
right-
then can a sinner
appear before God, and unite in the praises of the Redeemer
heaven
in
He must
put on the wedding garment, even
Now, mark what
the robe of the Saviour's righteousness.
the Scripture says
"
When we
were yet without strength,"
Rom. 5:
or help, "Christ died for the ungodly."
6.
He
was made " sin for us, who knew no sin that we might be
made the righteousness of God in him." 2 Cor. 5: 21.
;
He
has been "
made unto us wisdom, and righteousness."

The Bible tells us that our blessed Redeemer, by his own perfect righteousness, even his obedicnce unto death, satisfied the justice of God for the sinner
having done this, the sinner must come to Christ, believe
1
Cor.
30.
on him, and trust
in his merits as the only
acceptance with God.
done
for
him, and he
He
is
is
pardoned
for
ground of
his
what Christ has
accounted righteous for Christ's

who is called "The Lord our righteousness."

Now, when the sinner thus comes to God, he
sake,
23
6.
on the righteousness the Saviour has obtained
way
only
this is the
ner then should be
way
lost, it will
He
way.
will not put
to
come
When
the sinner stands at the
and
was no
to Christ
on the wedding
garment, and will not his condemnation be just

3.
him
If the sin-
not be because there
of salvation, but because he refused
in the appointed
for
which he can be saved.
in
Jer.
puts
judgment
seat to re-
ceive his final and eternal condemnation, he wqll be like the
man
in the parable
one word
He
speechless ; that
is,
he will not have
say against the righteous judgment of God.
to
he was
will then find that
lost,
not because there
was
no Saviour provided, but because he rejected that Saviour.
He would
not put on the wedding garment.

You see,
Thomas, the parable of the marriage feast is full of comfort to all who come to Christ in the right way ; but full of
awful warning to those who reject his righteousness, even
the wedding garment in which alone we can find accept-
This
ance before God.
is
the fatal sin that will destroy
thousands.
Thomas.
Yes,
sir,
did, that the sinner will
more than ever I

to blame for the
desire to feel
only have himself
eternal loss of his soul.
Minister.
It will
be
Thomas. God has provided

come and receive it.
Holy Spirit in answer to prayer.
so,
a ransom, and invites the sinner to
He
has promised
Every
is
to
give the
see the truth of that scripture, " This
lost soul will
the condemnation, that light
men
were
John 3
evil."
tion of the sinner

lost,
is
come
into the world,
and
loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds

:
not because there
but because
19.
when he
How
is
awful will be the
in hell, "
am
lost,
was no Saviour provided
reflec-
eternally
for sinners,
wilfully rejected that Saviour, and therefore
died without pardon !"
May
the grace of
God prevent us
; :;
may the Holy Spirit apply his

may we have greater pleasure
favorite hymn
from rejecting the Saviour

salvation to our hearts
than ever in singing our
Jesus, thy blood
My
and
beauty are,
and righteousness
my
glorious dress
Midst flaming worlds, in these array'd,
With
joy shall
When
To
I lift
up
my
head.
from the dust of death
claim
my
E'en then
mansion
I rise,
in the skies
shall this be all
my
plea,
Jesus hath liv'd and died for me.
Bold shall
stand in that great day
For who aught
my
to
charge shall lay.
While, through thy blood, absolv'd
From
sin's
am
tremendous curse and shame.
Thus Abraham, the friend of God,

Thus all the armies bought with blood,
Saviour of sinners, thee proclaim
Sinners, of
whom
the chief I
am.
This spotless robe the same appears
When ruin'd nature sinks in years

No age can change its glorious hue
The
let
robe of Christ
the dead
now
is
ever new.
hear thy voice
Bid, Lord, thy banish'd ones rejoice
Their beauty
this, their glorious dress,
Jesus, the Lord, our righteousness.

Wesley.
101.
iVo.
THE
TRUE BELIEVER BOUNTIFUL
Ye
set
disciples of the
up a church
Lord Jesus
in this world, has
of hell shall not prevail against
embrace
nations
all
it,
Christ,
and that
and calls upon you
your Saviour has
promised that the gates
to
it
shall one day-
consecrate your
property to the diffusion of that Gospel, by which he brings
men
into his
kingdom, and makes them happy.
hear me, while
obey him
offer a
few arguments
in this reasonable requisition
the point without detaining
must
done, you
act as
The Jirst argument

the fulness
down
If
induce you
is,
that
"the earth
I fail
is the
it is
make
certainty that
all things.
prior to all others.
demand upon them,

it
this
may
You ac-
of establishing this point, you
He who
and peopled them, and gave that people
may make
have
Lord's, and
right to
the book, and not read another line.
to
upon
will enter
you a moment, and when
knowledge God as the Creator of

his claim
to
you think proper.
thereof and hence he has a
draft upon you.
lay
Will you
cannot be
to
Here
found
built all worlds,
all their
good things,
any amount, with the
protested.
His are
all
the
" beasts of the forest," " and the cattle upon a thousand
hills."
The same
VOL. in.
is
true of your silver, your merchandise,
37
THE TRUE BELIEVER BOUNTIFUL.
your children, your servants, and

then
all
you have.
If not,
the good thing that you can be sure will be yours
name
to-morrow.
Begin,
if
you
please, at the bottom of the cata-
logue of your comforts, and ascend through the whole series,

to"
the wife of your bosom, your health, and your
me which
life,
and
tell
Dare you
of the whole will be yours to-morrow.
Then whosesoever they are, they surely

For he who has nothing that he can hold a
are not yours.
And if the good
day, has nothing but what is borrowed.
name
nothing
things
you possess are not yours, they are the Lord's
whose are they

he made
it,
And what was
the Lord's at
it
or
because
he has carefully watched over and preserved.
Not merely could we have had nothing,
made
first,
we
but
preserved
it.
There
is
could have kept nothing,
if
God had
God had
no kind of independence about us
have been beggars
was an eye
if
if
God had
we
not cared for us.
not
not
should
There
that watched more, narrowly than we did or
could, or our wealth had long since taken to itself wings,
and had flown away.
was the blessed God
It
that
watered
our fields, and gave success to our commerce, and health to
our children
lives
that
from danger
guarded our house from

else
we
fire,
and our
should have been beggars, or
should, years ago, have perished.
wealthy as you, are now poor
How
many, once as
or as healthy as you, are
now in the grave had a home as you have, but it burned

down had children, as perhaps you have, but the cold blast
came over them, and they died. And was it not the kindness
May he not
of God that saved to you what you have ?
then claim as much of your wealth as he pleases ?
But I am not through the argument. God has never
;
alienated his rights.
He
has suffered Satan
to
be styled
;;

power of the
the god of this world, the prince of the
The
but he owns nothing.
Lord Jesus,
the
were not a
he would
if
God
mitted to hold under
down and worship him,

And though men are per-
fall
certain rights, and
sometimes term unalienable,
In a moment, if he pleases, day or
will.
night, he puts us out of our possessions,
knew
know us no more for

Gospel, just when about
us,
in the
and when about
many
things laid up for
say
to
room
to deposit his
to his soul, "
good
thou hast good
years," heard from heaven the
tidings, " this night
unwelcome
thy soul shall be required
In a few hours more his life-lease would be out,
of thee."
when
to
and the places that
Thus the voluptuary

pull down his barns and
ever.
build greater, that he might have

things,
which they
God never has renounced

of all that we term ours,
still
his right to dispose at pleasure
and he never
air
he promised
that
territories
of them his.
foot
all
he had must revert
to its original
and rightful
owner.
Hence, we can serve God only with what
what he has never
Now,
thee."
the right to
that
alienated.
"
Of
which God has put
is
his already
thine own,
into
we
give
our hands, and
which he has never relinquished, we may
not,
without the charge of fraud, appropriate otherwise than as
command
he shall
But
to
us.
have not done.
what we term
God has
often asserted his claim
This he does by
ours.
ery shower he sends, and every sun that
God
riding upon the heavens and
chariot, that
ries,
and
whose
falls,
he
distil
may pay
rises,
making
Ev-
witnesses a
the clouds his
a friendly visit to his
blessings upon the fields,
fruits are his
his mercies.
whose
own
territo-
fee,
and
all
and every breeze, and every dew that
but set forth their morning and their evening claim to
Thus
their Master's right.
"
day unto day
uttereth speech"
of him, and "night unto night" repeats again and again the
story of his kindness to his
own
his
territory.
own
creations,
When was any
and
his care of
one thus careful
for
another's interest, and thus intent upon rendering fertile a

soil
whose increase he might neither appropriate
nor call his
own?
And when
to
himself
he heals our sicknesses, and
holds us back from the grave, and purifies our atmosphere
with his lightnings, and bids the autumnal

fevers and the plagues of our cities, of
all this
and
care, but of his children
frosts to
whom
cure the
does he take
his servants
and when
he heals the broken bone and restores the weary and the
has he no claim upon the existence
faint,
and the health and
he gives
life
he prolongs,
and when he feeds us
daily at his table, and regales us at his fountains, and rests
us upon the works he
and furnishes the eye with
built,
and gladdens every sense
light,
'svith its
appropriate delights,
does he not assert his claim to be served and honored by

the beings he thus indefatigably protects, and feeds, and
heals,
and nourishes
firmament, or a
spreads
its
Is there
moon
Is there
God
will
deny
that
human
God has
world where he expends so
of his
own
May, or a dew-drop of
which God
own works ?
face, in
not seen pencilling out beauties upon his
And who
not seen in
is
to the subjects
a flower of
morning, or a lineament in the

is
up night, or a bow that
beauties on the cloud, and
them, giving light and promise
kingdom
a star that twinkles in the
that lights
a paramount claim
much
to
of his wisdom and his
Where is the individual who will not acknowledge

the rights of God ?
And he asserts his claim again in the severities of his
Once he claimed the whole world, and, by a
providence.
care
sudden and fearful dispensation, displaced every tenant that

had ever occupied
amply,
its soil,
for the single
providing afterwards, timely and
whom by
family he loved, and
nant he had adopted as his own.
And none
cove-
will say that
God went without his own dominions, to lay a world waste

was the property of another. When he burned the
that
cities
of the plain, he only asserted, though loudly and fear-
fully, his rights;
and pressed home
to the
bosom and the
conscience, of foe and friend, his claim to be served and
honored, in every valley that he ha<l
every people
whom
In the ruin of
his kindness
made
the ancient monarchies,
all
the attitude of asserting his claim to the
as sections of his
own
desolating pestilences
cities,
in
God
is
shall please.
The
by which he has dispeopled towns and
and the thousand nameless sweeps of death written
our gloomy history, had
heaven,
to
had loaned
take back the

to
men.
life,
all
their
commissions from
and health, and comforts he
There was one kingdom we read
whose whole population went seventy years
into
because their land had not been allowed
keep
baths,
seen in
kingdoms of men,
empire, to which he will send other
and other subjects, whenever he
rulers,
and by
fertile,
had made prosperous.
and they had not paid their
tithes,
to
of,
bondage,
its
Sab-
and emancipated
their servants at the appointed jubilee.
The
storms that have wrecked our merchandise, and
the fires that have devoured our cities, and
all
the mis-
named casualties that have ruined our fortunes, have been

so
many
to
what we had appropriated
use.
claims put
And
in,
by the
rightful
owner of
all things,
too exclusively to our
the occurrences of every
own
day are of the same
character.
I
knovv^ this is not the
VOL.
III.
world of retribution, and that

37^'
6
" no
is
man knoweth
"known by
the
by any thing
either good or evil,
done under the sun;" but
judgment
let
us not deny, that
that they
and feed on his bounty, and are
cultivate his territory,
happy under
mind
in
is
Will he
that he executeth."
by repeated demands, keep men
not,
that
God
In thus asserting his claim
his auspices ?
to
be served with the talents that he loans, he shows that one
unchangeable law of
what was once
his
his
kingdom
is,
not offend the good man,
I shall
that he never alienates
own.
when
claim, that this
has been a disastrous, because a disobedient world.
haps the aggregate of property

ties that
God has
upon
sent
its
been expended as he directed,
me now
you
not open
may
read again,
meet, but
"There
Lord of
hosts, if I will
is
room enough
to
that withholdeth
receive it."
more than
is
tendeth to poverty."
it
how much more prosperous this

men had expended their wealth
God would have them how much more frequently the
It is
impossible to say
world might have been,

as
that wealth
windows of heaven, and pour you out a
blessing, that there shall not be
We
Had
would have made the
be meat in mine house, and
herewith, saith the
the
would have exactly
charity.
it
Per-
the various calami-
" Bring ye all the tithes into the
world wise and happy.
prove
by
this world,
met the claims he had upon
storehouse, that there
lost
if
;
showers had
fallen, or
more genial our sun, or more gentle
our breezes, or mild our winters, or

healthful our population, if
fertile
we had been
and had served the Lord w4th our substance.
must have
failed, or
he would have "
our
soil,
filled
His promise
our barns with
plenty," and caused our " presses to burst out with
wine."
or
a better people,
new
As
wake
the churches shall
world the Gospel,

hope, that
much
7
and give the
to their duty,
hope, and if infidelity scoffs,
still I
and God kindly " stay his rough wind,
fated world,
day of
his east
cured,
its
How many
wind."
wars prevented,
earthquakes
stilled
stowed upon
of
heaths
its
rebuke
when
it
when we
When we
many
If
cease to waste his goods, he will
few things, he
you
will
now
me
consider
all
second argument
to offer the
that
pel, hecause they are heirs
They belong
was intended
Ye
when we
make
us rulers
as having established the
you have,
which
have the means, should contribute
the cause
will
things.
divine claim to you, and
Chjrist.
cannot
shall do as he bids us, he will so often
shall be faithful in the
over
its
become more loyal
shall
continue longer in the stewardship
to
and
fertile,
and what the amount of blessings be-
this world,
us.
allow us
ill-
in the
plagues will be
its
made
and more benevolent, none but God can know.

believe, that
will
of the curse will be removed from this
is,
to
I will
proceed
that Christians,
of God, and joint-heirs with Jesus
to that
to establish.
kingdom which
This
the Gospel
enough
fact is quite
to
give
plead a strong hold upon every pious heart.
disciples of the
of your hopes
Lord Jesus, read once more the charter
and while
it
warms your
you have done half your duty.
heart, tell
me
if
" All things are yours
whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or

or death, or things present, or things to
and ye are
who
disseminate the Gos-
come
all
life,
are yours,
Christ's, and Christ is God's."

Then it seems
God and his people have but one interest. Hence, when
he commands them to spread the Gospel, he but bids them
buy themselves blessings, bids them foster their own interest, and make their own kingdom happy.
The Christian
g
has by his
own
act identified his whole interest with that of
Lord Jesus
the church of our
he
happy
is
and God
and in the joy of
ners,
mand
his
God
If
Christ.
honored,
is
honored in the salvation of
is
sin-
Hence, God can com-
his people.
people to do nothing but that which will bless
themselves.
Now, when
you know of a
did
who would
son
k'ing's
not joyfully expend his father's treasures to enlarge, and
kingdom
strengthen, and beautify the
He
thus polishes his
What
reign.
own crown, and
He
is
one of the
which he was heir?
same
believer has not the
flock, to
little
Father's good pleasure to give the kingdom.
king and a priest

he
still
not,
to
an interest
he will hold
need only
to
know
God and
future
the
Lamb
ever
for
and has
he has at the control of God.
his duty,
God
whom it is his
He is to be a
from his heavenly Father
distinct
all
own
interest that
and strengthening the stakes
has, in lengthening the cords
of Zion
to
blesses his
and
will perform
If
He
will
most cheer-
it
fully.
The
third reason
why
Christians,
who have
should contribute to disseminate the Gospel,
is,
the means,
that they are
Over
merciful, as their Father in heaven is merciful.
mass of misery which the apostasy has produced,
And
pious hearts have long bled in sympathy.

ty
"
is
not of that kind that
Be ye warmed, and
have strongly
felt,
it
can content
be ye filled."
itself
that
their
their chari-
with saying,
They have
read, and
that cutting interrogation of the apostle,
" Whosoever hath this world's goods, and seeth his brother
have need, and shutteth up

him,
no
how dwelleth
man
so
his
the love of
bowels of compassion from
God
in
him ?"
And
needy as he who has not the bread of
good man would render
all
men happy.
there
life.
is
The
His charity
is

which beats
warm,
like that
and
do his duty
to
him
his
is
meat and
Master; and
like his
in the heart of the
This makes
his drink.
He
he aspires.
to this
Son of God
cannot
hope to rejoice eternally in the achievements of redemption,

unless,
he
felt,
moved by
is
same
the
prepared
pity for the miserable that he
come up promptly, and
to
Sav-
offer the
iour any service he requires.
Oh,
own
for
it
it
hope
is
me
fills
heart, or
with shame,
must urge
my
when
acknowledged, that we owe
for,
my
must goad up
Christian brother to be kind

all
we
have, and
all
we
loving-kindness of the Lord Jesus Christ.
to the
Our reprieve from hell, we owe to his mercy and the food
we eat, and the raiment we put on, and the friends who succor us, and the tenement we dwell in, and the bed we rest
He is the Saviour of all men ah, and more yet we
on.
;
owe him,
lieve.
for
It is
he
is
which placed us
which we hope
begun, that adoption
in his family, that
peace of God which
We
cast within the veil.
were
had the discovery been made
hold on the atonement

the attributes of
the
God
commonwealth of
of promise
we have
had never discovered that we
sinners, but for his loving-kindness
for sin,
of,
is
understanding, and that hope which
all
that be-
through him we have that pardon we speak
that sanctification
passeth
them
especially the Saviour of
nor had mourned
nor had taken any
nor had looked complacently upon
but had lived and died aliens from

Israel,
and strangers
to
the covenant
nor had joined hereafter the redeemed of the
Lord, or raised
to his
honor one anthem of praise.
so loved the world, that he
gave
"
God
whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have

everlasting life."
And
says an apostle, "
grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,
that,
Ye know
though he was
the
rich,
10
yet for your sakes he
became
it
poor, that
And can
poverty might be rich."
ye through
his
be true, and must
it still
be told in Gath, and published in the streets of Askelon,
that
any of
little
for
people will not diminish their wealth a
his
him who bought
Should there chance

the disciples of the
men from
to save
him lodge
in
to
Lord Jesus
pray
hell,
that will not
let his
him
find a
and
rise alone,
among all
spend his money
history be a secret, let
some wilderness, where
cast a reproach upon his Master
when
riches with his poverty
all their
be a covetous Christian
and
his
may
example
his brethren
not
and
let
grave in some dark glen, and sleep in solitude,
and come alone
judgment.
to the
and be reckoned with,
that brother shall die,
Still,
it
must
remain a doubt whether, having showed no mercy, he must

not expect judgment without mercy.
r appeal
then,
ye
ness of your hearts,
wealth
to
some of
disciples of Jesus Christ, to the kind-
when
ask you
render the world happy.
contribute of your
not cure
the plagues that sin has generated, and that have
so long preyed
upon the blessedness of man
quench the funeral
ful,
but infatuated widow, that she
and
pile,
live to rear
one half of the
human
up
it
Would you
and save the young and beauti-
not
infant,
to
Would you
may
nurse her imploring
Would you
to life ?
servitude to which paganism has subjected them
you not snatch ten thousand

where they now
lie,
Would
infants from the altars of devils,
bound and weeping, waiting
speak a word of mercy
not free
family, the female sex, from that
for
them
the vast herd of idolaters, that there
Would you
is
till
you
not teach
a kinder, and more
Would you
not
break in upon the delusions of the false prophet, and
tell
merciful God, than those they worship
his
misguided followers, that you have read of a holier heav-

en than they hope
Would you not file off the chains

many centuries, upon poor af-
for ?
have been fastened, so
that
Africa
flicted
Would you
not stay the progress of war,
warm and
and save the thousands that are marching,

weary, towards the
were
it
may
back
possible, bring
Maker?
its
of death
field
Have you
this
base world
then a purse,
to its
there deposited, with a view to
which God
into
make
this
wretched world
Bear with me, ye followers of the Lamb, a

and
say that you have covenanted
will
not,
home and
and take thence what he has
not thrust his hand,
happy
Oh, would you
to
longer,
little
he workers to-
God in achieving the purposes of

now employ your energies to widen
gether with
redemption,
and must
the bounda-
ries of his
holy empire, or
you a voluntary compact
forfeit
;
your promise.
and you pledged
was
It
in that
in
hour
your prayers, your influence, your farm, your merchandise,

your purse, your children, and
Heaven has recorded

you,
if it
wholly
at
that
all
up against
be violated, in the day of retribution.
your
whether you would enter
option,
And
you have.
that vow, to be brought
sweeping covenant, whether you would swear
was
It
into that
but you
You
have entered, you have sworn, and cannot go back.
then relinquished for ever your personal rights, and have

had, ever since, but a
community of
his people.
Now, God
people
they are like him.
too, if
pond with your oath,
church
pollution
let
lie
and
the
desolate
let
employed
interest with
God and
in doing good,
How,
then, will
and
it
command
and
let
of
God
and
his
corres-
to stand aloof from' the calls
and disregard
waste places
is
of the
let
the
the heathen die in their
the captives perish in their chains
and
almost the whole of that territory, purchased with the
22
blood of the Lord Jesus Christ,
minion of the prince of hell

to
the judgment, with
Oh, how
world go
sanctified
you, in that day
weighed
will
when
under the usurped do-
lie
and
a whole condemned
let
all this blood
your broken vows
in the balance with the souls
Who
rise
un-
it,
and haunt
you have saved
the wealth
the instrument of redeeming
upon
shall be
might have been
it
would venture upon the experiment of being con-
victed of covenant-breaking before a congregated world
God
of having embezzled the wealth
of having squandered upon his
the use of his church?

person, or his children
perhaps
to their ruin
have been used in turning the

gospel into
created purposely for
some parched
territory,
what might
stream of the
fertilizing
where, ever since the
apostasy, there has been only desolation, and famine, and

pestilence
Oh, who,
for all the
gold that has ever been
counted, would go to the altar of God, and there swear

that he
would renounce the pomp and
vanities of the world,
and then go and stand impeached, before angels and devils,

at the
judgment-seat, of having loved the wôrld more than
God, more than the souls of men, more than the kingdom of
our Lord Jesus Christ

I offer
as
You have been
you one reason more.
you hope, through the truth
perience of the value of that gospel which
promulgate.
unhappy.
sanctified,
and hence have some
ex-
we urge you
to
Once you were ignorant of God, and were

You were in somewhat the same forlorn con-
dition with those
whose cause
plead
you had forsaken
God, the fountain of living water, and had hewn out

yourselves broken cisterns, that could hold no water.
you remember
that dark period.
object to object, through
all
Your mind
to
And
travelled from
the round of created good, and,
13
search of blessedness, found no end, in wandering mazes
in
lost.
And
there
a world of intelligent, immortal beings,
is
seen panting and weary in the same fruitless chase.
was
Your
ened
it
heedless steps
guided
it
your erring conscience
aroused
expanded
changed
with
It
the blessed gospel that arrested you, and saved you.
your hard heart
your pride
it
your dark mind
rectified
it
it
softened
humbled
your
your
it
enlight-
insensibility
selfishness
it
your wayward course
it
your covenant with death, and your agreement
hell,
And
disannulled.
it
here you stand, redeemed,
regenerated, your whole character changed, and your final

destiny altered, through the influence of the blessed gospel.
The
curse
removed
is
you are a
child of God, and an heir
of glory, and shall one day see the King in his beauty
a7id the gospel has done
has given you peace of
It
it.
Holy Ghost, a firm hope of heaven,
conscience, joy in the
and the soul-reviving assurance that

together for your good,
you
till
things shall
all
work
be where Christ
rise to
is,
behold his beauty, and rejoice in his love for ever.
Now,
the question
your wealth,
lately were.
now
has been worth
to
by
it
all
woes
the
and by
all
is,
whether you
save those
to
the
who
plead with you by
you, by
the joys
all
has cured, by
all
transformation
it
into
dition in
contribute of
it
all
you
so
that religion
has brought you,
the hopes
it
has raised,
has wrought in your
For what price would you
character and your condition.

return
will
are perishing, as
the darkened, and dreary, and hopeless con-
which the gospel found you
you barter away
all
For what would
the delightful prospects that open before
you, and calculate on no more precious sacramental seasons
no more communion of saints

VOL.
III.
no more delightful hours

39
;
in
14
your
closet
nor Pisgah views of the
field
fellowship with the Father, and with his
At no
would you part with
price
are the blessings which you have
on those who are perishing
May we
upon
be permitted
religion
joys to others
Weighed
of
God
that
This
is
in this balance,
Have you
world
noi
?
great
to confer
learn what estimate you put
to
how
will
communicate
its
God has given
us.
to
the only rule
you appear
in the sight
foregone the gratification of your
taste,
some
destitute territory of
Have you denied
yourself any article
you might send salvation
this ruined
your power
in
lack of vision.
for
by the pains you take

?
Then how
these.
it
of promise
Son Jesus Christ
to
of luxury, rode in a less splendid carriage, or reclined upon
a humbler couch, or mounted a plainer staircase, or seated

yourself at a less costly table, or spent an hour more at
business, that
you might have
at
command
the
means of
doing good, of enlightening the benighted or reclaiming the
hope and to heaven the wayward

Or was no such economy necessary ? Then,
Have you allowed God and his kingdom to put in
vicious, or of bringing to
and the
I
ask.
lost ?
their claim along with yours
did
you buy a Bible
When
for the
poor?
you bought a luxury,
When
you enlarged
and beautified your habitation, and added another house or

another
field
to
your possessions, did you enlarge your
annual subscription
to the
benevolent institutions of the age
Did you, when you had paid your thousands

veniences, pay a tithe of that
sum
to enlarge,
and strengthen the kingdom of your Master?

none the
less able
and the more obligated
to
for
some con-
and beautify,
Did you
feel
do good, because
God allowed you to make large appropriations for your own

? The divine precept is, and it binds every Christian
comfort
conscience, "
Do good
to all
men
as
you have opportunity,

but especially
and
to
who
those
obedience
in their
15
are of the household of faith ;"
to this precept,
they show exactly the
as a gospel temper, and
Dear
price they put upon piety.
a gospel hope, and a gospel heaven are to us, proportionably
high will
in
our zeal
rise
generate that temper and that hope
to
every bosom, and prepare
for that
heaven a whole world
And
of benighted and perishing sinners.
such will be the promptitude with which
our substance
to
rescue the
as our zeal
we
is,
shall bestow
from the perdition that
lost
awaits them.
Do you
say that they can purchase the privileges of the
gospel as you have

their value
No, they
will not.
and will die in their
sins, ere
Not the whole of
shilling for the light of the gospel.

if
would save them
it
from
all
They know
hell,
not
they will give a

India,
would be willing
to
support a single missionary.
we persuade them
If
territories,
and
our missionaries live
to let
to refrain
from their blood,
we
in their
shall rejoice.
If they will allow their children to read the Bible,
when we
have taught them, and supported them while they were

taught,
we
shall be
If they will hear us
happy.
have come on our knees
to
when we
them, and will be entreated
when we have worn out our health, and even life, for them,
But, " how shall they hear
it will be all we can expect.
without a preacher ? and how shall he preach except he be
sent?" and how can he be sent, unless the wealthy will
him
And
feed
him and
who
men
will encounter a sultry clime, and die pleading with

to
clothe
be willing
wealthy believers
aries
up
so
What
if missionaries
can be found,
to live for ever,
need we plead long with
induce them
to sustain these mission-
to
then will the world think of us,
promptly in every enterprise dear
who march
to their hearts ?
IQ
God send them
Will
once did thus send
he now commands us
for lack of vision.
it
have done nothing

will plead
that
when you
send
to
it
to
to
be his
the heathen in
But
let
shall see the world
melting down, and those
me
on
who have
your wealth
fire,
Him
the throne, and from the wrath of the
them, there will be strong sensations.
you cannot
the salvation of others,
be, if
you
will
all
fall
on
that sitteth
upon
Lamb," and
shall
you might have been instrumental
yourself, and
but
perished through your
them, and hide them from the face of
that
you, in parting,
tell
neglect calling upon the " rocks and mountains to
know
No, he
who are perishing

and God will require
the judgment, if we
promote their salvation
no longer.
name
those
We know our duty,
Can we meet
of us.
by miracle
the gospel
to the lost, blessed
it
If
in
saving
you are saved
you remain
indifferent to
wish a place
to
weep over
your past neglects, before you begin your everlasting song

and
if lost yourself,
then indeed there will be weeping, and
wailing, and gnashing of teeth.
Note.
individual,
premium of
was awarded
fifty dollars,
proposed by a generous
to the author of this Tract.
TKo.
103,
PAY-NIGHT
A
DIALOGUE ON SATURDAY EVENING
Â
William. Come, Robert, let's call over across tae common, and take a glass of grog.
We have done a good
week's work, and wages are fair now.
Rohert. No, I am bound for home
and as for the glass
of grog, it's what does all the mischief.
Think of poor
Sam's wife and children. A better workman never enter;
ed the shop
but he must have his grog, and
last
week we
laid the poor fellow in his grave.
Wm.
Yes, yes
but there's no
harm
in taking a
refresh one's spirits after a hard day's work.

past nine, and
Roh. Ah,
we can
it's
that leads on to a
VOL. HI.
lie
an hour longer
It's
in the
little to
only just
morning.
this taking a little to refresh one's spirits

little
more, and then a
39*
little
more,
till
we
PAY-NIGHT.
safe. Poor
and oftener,
He drank up all
till he had an appetite like a horse-leech.
his wages, and you see how the matter ended. For my part,
I wish we were paid some other night besides Saturday, and
a little earlier too. It is more than one can do, at this late
hour, to get home and be ready for Sunday; besides, many of
our shopmates squander a great part of their week's wa-
Just take none at
are ruined.
Sam
used
to
take a
ges before the day
Wm.
Ready
"
little,
all,
and you are
but he took
it
oftener
over.
is
Sunday!"
for
thought Sunday was in-
tended as a day of rest and recreation.

to
ask you
row
but
to join
was
going
just
a part}^ and take a sail with us to-mor-
suppose, from what
you say about Sunday,
that
of no use to ask you.
it's
To
Rob.
be sure
should not like
to violate
and pro-
fane the Lord's day.
Wm.
a
little
Violate and profane the Lord's day
What
innocent recreation after slaving hard
all
to
take
the weekj
do you call this violating and profaning the Lord's day ?

Rof). I don't know how any one can call it otherwise.
W7n.
why
give,
cause
it
should like
a
man
happens
to
hear what mighty reason you can
should not take a

to
pleasure, only be-
little
be on Sunday.
Rob. Well, then, you must know,
first
of
all,
that the Sab-
bath was intended by the Almighty to be a day of rest and

cessation from labor.
We read that " God blessed the seventh
and hallowed it because that in it he had rested from

Now what you propose as recreation, is
all his work."
harder than any of our work and for my part, I have no
notion of volunteering to row a boat for hours together, like
a o-allev slave, for the sake of rest and recreation, after workday,
mg
hard
in the
all
the week.
It
paper of two parties
was but yesterday
who were launched
that I read
into eternity
while taking their pleasure on the wâter on Sunday.

preparation surely for such a change. Besides, you
it is
not
more than three years ago when
A bad
know
a party of fifteen
PAY-NIGHT.
young men and women were drowned, and the minister

of our town preached a most affecting discourse on the evil
and danger of Sabbath-breaking. He spoke in such a manner as made the tear trickle down from every eye and the
sighs and sobs of the people sometimes almost stopped him
;
sermon. I shall not forget it as long as I live. And

such sport cannot be had without money and a man
spends as much in this way on a Sunday, as would keep
his family half the week so he comes home at night whh
weary bones, a guilty conscience, and an empty pocket into
in his
then,
the bargain.
Wm.
Well, I see 'tis of no use arguing with you. I

go and see if they have spoken for the boat, and got
things ready for we mean to start early in the morning.
shall
all
Rob. Nay, but stay a minute or two longer, shopmate, for
have another reason stronger than all the rest put togethand that is, 3ôu have the commandments of God against
you. He has said, " Remember the Sabbath day to keep it
holy six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work but the
seventh is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God :" you may read
more of it in Exodus, chap. 20. And in another place Jehovah speaks thus " Ye shall keep my Sabbath, for it is holy
I
er
unto you
every one that defileth
it
shall be put to death."
law was actually put in force among the Israelites.

While they were in the wilderness, they found a man that
gathered sticks upon the Sabbath day " and the Lord said
unto Moses, The man shall surely be put to death, and all the
And
this
congregation shall stone him with stones without the camp
and
all
stoned
the congregation brought
him with stones, and he
might the Apostle say, " It

hands of the living God."
him without
died."
is
Num.
15
the camp, and

:
32-16. Well
a fearful thing to
Now
as to the
fall
manner
into the
of keep-
ing the Sabbath, I will just mention one text of Scripture
more
you
:
and
" If
this,
is point blank against

from the Sabbath, from doholy day and call the Sabbath a
as well as all the rest,
thou turn
away thy
ing thy pleasure on
my
foot
PAY-NIGHT.
delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable
and shalt honor
him, not doing thine oicn ways, nor finding thine oivn pleasures, nor speaking thine own words, then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord, and I will cause thee to ride
upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the
heritage of Jacob, thy father for the mouth of the Lord hath
spoken it." Isa. 58 13, 14. Now, if these reasons are not
enough to satisfy you, I will add another.
;
Wm. Another no, no I don't want any more reasons.

But give over this sort of preaching, and say you will go.
I'll warrant you it will be a fine day, and we shall enjoy it
!
well
Rob. No, William,
I cannot go with you, for sure I am

no happiness where the blessing of God is not
much less is happiness to be found in the way of transgres-
there
is
sion: for the Bible says, "
But
The way of transgressors
as I dare not spend the Sabbath in your
invite
you
to
come and enjoy
it
me
and we
with
is
way,
1 will say,
hard.''
me
let
as
Mo-
will do thee good

Come thou with us,
and it shall be, if thou go with us, yea, it shall be that
what goodness the Lord shall do unto us, the same will we
ses of old, "
do unto thee."
Wm. 1 begin
to think, indeed I have thought so ever since

good old mother died, that it is not quite right to neglect church on Sunday; and I must honestly tell you, I
have, more than once or twice, had some stings of conscience, when, in spite of all my endeavors to forgot it, I
have thought upon the foolish manner in which 1 have spent
the past day; and then, on Monday morning, I feel as if
every thing was wrong about me. I come to work with a
heavy heart, while you appear as blithe as a lark, and as
happy as a prince. Tell me, Robert, how is it you pass your
my
Sundays
Rob.
?
I'll
but half as
do that with pleasure
many good
the Sabbath, as
and
reasons against
if
my
have against yours, then
you can produce

\vay of spending
I'll
say no more.
PAY-NIGHT.
Well, then, you must know, that
comes
when Saturday evening
Why, shopmate,
I asked you
what you do on
Saturday. Does your Sunday begin on Saturday ? This is
making a long Sunday of it, indeed.
Rob. I always consider Saturday evening as the preparation for the Sabbath
and as to the length of it, it always
Saturday evening
IVm.
how you employed
the Sunday, and not
flics
mc
too fast for

"
The
*'
My soul would wish
gladness of that happy day,

it
long to stay."
IVm. Well, then, on Saturday evening

Rob.
Why,
then
my
wife and
little
what
ones are
then-?
all
as busy
were getting ready to go to court the next mornindeed, I always count the Sabbath as the grand court-
as if they
ing
day of
thci
King
"
of kings
for,
as the
The King himself comes
hymn
says
near,
And feasts his saints to-day;

" Here we may sit and see him here,
" And love, and praise, and pray."
"
The
children's play-things are all put
and
away
shoes
all
ready for the mornwife waiting till T come home
cleaned, their clothes all aired
laid
and my
and I must be going soon, else she will begin to think something has happened.
W7n. Yes I always thought your wife one of a thousand.
I wish every other man's wife was as good as she is; howing,
house made
with
my wages
tidy,
ever, I will not complain.
Rob. ^Vell, then, as
we
1 said, all
things being ready on Sa-
up our praises to Almighty God for

the mercies of the past week, and pray that, with the light
of the coming day, the light of his countenance may shine
upon our souls
turday night,
offer
PAY-NIGHT.
" Safely through another week,
" God has brought us on our way
" Let us now a blessing seek
" On til' ap))roaching Sabbath day
" Day of all the Aveek the best,
*'
Emblem
of eternal rest."
Then we go to bed, rest our weary limbs, and always welcome the opening of another Sabbath daj^.
Wm. Why, this is making the most of a good thing; but
don't
you
an hour or two longer
lie
week
the labor of the
Rob. As
morning,
in the
after
to that, I'll tell
you.
rise at
my
usual hour,
Lord that we may

"begin, continue, and end" the sacred day in the fear of
God.
W?)i. I am afraid you have got too much religion for
me; I shall not much like your way. I always thought if
I went to church once on a Sundaj^ 1 did my duty quite
read the Bible alone, and pray
to
the
well enough.
much
religion! That is impossible, if a man's

he has tasted that the Lord is gracious,
he will be coming to him and as a new-born babe, " desire
the sincere milk of the word, that he may grow thereb3%"
Rob. Too
heart
If
right.
is
as the Apostle Peter speaks.

relio-ion is
happiness
Too much
religion
Why,
and you never yet knew any one have
much happiness.
too
Wm.
ble,
after the
Well,
what then
Rob.
Why,
clean, wife
over,
we
morning prayer and reading the Bi-
then
ready
come down, and
Avith the breakfast
find the children all
and as soon as
prepare for family worship, which
a hvmn; the little ones all join,

rah has got a pretty voice.
I set
We
the tunc, and
often begin the
with
"
Welcome, sweet day of rest,

" That saw the Lord arise,
"
Welcome
"
And
to this
reviving breastj
these rejoicing eyes."
that
we begin
is
with
my
Sa-
Sabbath

PAY-NIGHT.
Then we
down and pray for a Sabbath-day's

to commend our minister to the
kneel
all
never forgetting
blessing-,
grace of God that he

speak a word in season
may
be aided by the Holy Spirit to

him that is weary.
W7}i. I should think you have had praying and singing
enough for one day. I should be prayed and sung to death
;
with so
Rob.
much religion.
Enough William
!
There
my
heart
was glad when they
" I
house of the Lord.
Lord
the best of
is
it
not yet begun.
the public worship of the sanctuary; and,
is
the hour arrives,
is
to
of hosts,
to
said unto me,
How
my King
ready
is
when
cry out with David,

let
us go unto the
amiable are thy tabernacles,
better than a thousand."
my God A
and
day in thy courts

would do your heart good to
!
It
good minister he looks like a man that is pleading with God on behalf of his people. He looks round
upon the congregation with so much affection, that you
would think we were all his own children. He is always
upon the one grand subject, as he calls it Jesus Christ,
and him crucified. This was his first text when he first
came to us *' I determined not to know any thing among
you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified." 1 Cor. 2 2.
And he has kept good his determination ever since.
see our
Wm.
cording
think
to
much
should not
your account, he
is
like
your minister. Ac-
always harping upon one
string.
Roh. Harping upon one string Yes, truly but it is a

on which he plays a thousand delightful tunes.
Christ and him crucified Why, William, this is the music
of heaven, and no wonder it should gladden the hearts
!
string
of sinners upon earth.

tell
could listen
you, William, you and
says
to
it
forever.
are sinners, and
we
Let
me
stand in
we are great sinners, and we need a great

now, just such a Savior is Jesus Christ, as St. Paul
" This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all accepta-
need of a Savior
Savior
tion, that
Christ Jesus
came
into the Avorld to save sinners,
PAY NIGHT.
8
of whom
tliat
am
chief."
Tim.
takes awaj' our sins:
God
that justifies us before
makes us holy
it is
fort in affliction
when we come
it
15. It is the blood of Christ
the righteousness of Christ

is
the Spirit of Christ that
the consolation of Christ that gives com-
it is
is
it
to die
the grace of Christ that supports us

it
is
the smile of Christ that gives
boldness in the day of judgment
and
it
is
Christ that makes heaven the blessed place

" Christ
and
is all
in all,"
the presence of
it is.
as the Apostle has
In short,
it
in an-
other place.
I confess I
W?}i.
fore.
much about Christ beman did as well as he could,

so much about Christ and
never heard so
always thought
that if a
he need not concern himself

religion.
Rob.
thought so once, until
preach from
of the
this text,
"
For
as
law are under the curse;
every one that continueth not in
book of the law,
ten in the
found myself
there
to
to
heard our good minister
many
as are of the
written,
works
Cursed
for
it is
all
things which are writ-
do them."
Gal. 3
is
10. I then
be a guilty condemned sinner: and saw
was salvation only through the atoning blood of Christ

him for mercy and he says, " Him that cometh
I cried to
unto me,
Wm.
no wise
I will in
but surely
cast out."
think I should like
you
to
hear your minister preach;
don't think there can be
any harm
in taking
a walk into the fields in the afternoon, after going to church
the morning.
Why as to that Now suppose you come to the

shop on Monday morning, and ^vork till twelve o'clock,
and then go off and lounge about the rest of the day
would this be doing your duty to our em.ployer ? Would
you not justly fall short in your reckoning when Saturday
Rob.
So our blessed Lord says, " No man can

for either he will hate the one and love
the other, or else he will hold to the one and despise the
other.
Ye cannot serve God and Mammon." Matt. 6 24.
night came
serve two masters
;;
PAY-NIGHT.
Now
enough
love
my
for
him.
Divine Master, and never think

love his service also;
is
it
can do
"perfect
freedom."
Well,
Wffi.
think
should like
cept
body
i/oti ;
else,
My
Rob.
you seem
to
spend a Surtday with
is all made up exand as you won't go, we must either get someor go as we are.
you, but I can't to-morrow
dear fellow,
to
the party
let
me
persuade you not
bath-breaking, and
am
sure you will not be happy.
conscience has often warned and checked you

will be sinning against light,
tion.
What
if
to
go
be somewhat convinced of the evil of Sab-
God
and against
should take you
Your
and you
this friendly cau-
away with
a stroke
you have no security against it, and especially in the way

of disobedience
for " he that, being often reproved, hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that with;
out remedy."
Prov. 29
1.
Wm. Why, you seem
to have all the argument on

your side. Well, if I thought they would not laugh at
me. and call me a Methodist, I would give it up, and go
along with you.
Why let
Rob. Laugh at you, and call you a Methodist
them laugh, and let them call. So the gay pleasure-takers
might have laughed at Noah while he was preparing the
ark but the flood came and drowned them all and their
!
laughter was turned into bitter crying,
themselves shut out.
This
may have
when
they found
been the case,
also,
with the scoffers that dwelt in guilty Sodom but the same
day that Lot left the place, it rained fire and brimstone from
;
heaven, and destroyed them aU.
Wm.
Well,
I'll
consider of
it.
hope you will, and may the Holy Spirit inclhie

you to determine on the side of Christ and your immorand you will find her ways
this is true wisdom
tal soul
'âre ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are paths of
peace." But I must be gcing; I have told you but half the
39
VOL. III.
Rob.
PAY-NIGHT.
10
of the Sabhath-day come, and prove the

only just say, the other half of the day becomes
sweeter and sweeter, as one enters into the spirit of it and
I sometimes think, if there is so much comfort in the wordelightful
rest.
work
I will
ship of
God on
*'
earth, then
what must heaven be!
the delights, the heavenly joys,
"
**
The transports of the place,

Where Jesus sheds the brightest beams
" Of his o'erflowing grace T'
Now, compare your way of spending the Sabbath with

let any man of common sense be the judge, and
You come
I'll venture to say he will give it in my favor.
home, half worn out with recreation, as you call it money
the children cross
wife perhaps out of humor
all spent
and sleepy and when you lie down at night, you cannot
mine, and
ask God's blessing on the past day, but are obliged to skulk
to bed like a thief that is afraid of being taken before his
judge. But in my way of spending the Sabbath, our bodies
are rested from the
toils
of the past week, our spirits are
refreshed by the blessing of
God
it
makes
rich,
and adds
and we can lie down at night witli a

cheerful heart, expressing our gratitude to our Heavenly
Father in devout adoration and songs of praise.
no sorrow therewith
bless the Lord, whose love assigns

So sweet a rest to wearied minds
" Provides an antepast of heaven,
*'
And gives this day the food of seven.
'
Come,
'
'
*'
O that oar thoughts and thanks may rise

As grateful incense to the skies
And draw from heaven thai sweet repose,
Which none, but he that feels it, knows.
;
"
"
" This heavenly calm within the breast,

" Is the dear pledge of glorious rest,
"
"
Which for the church of God remains,

The end of cares, the end of pe.ins.
EVILS OF PROFANING THE SABBATH.
11
" In holy duties
let the day

" In holy pleasures pass away
;
"
sweet a Sabbath thus to spend,
How
" In hope of one that ne'er shall end
EVILS OF PROFANING
1"
THE SABBATH.
He has appointed the Sabbath, and

keep it holy. To profane it by worldJy
business, amusement, or in any other way, is disobedience
and is greatly to his dishonor.
to God
The Sabbath is God's day, he
2. It ensures his wrath.
requires it to be set apart for himself If men profane it, God
is angry, and will visit them with his curse. They will be
1.
dishonors God.
It
commanded men
to
cursed in the city and in the

their store
3.
It is
in their
and
their basket
in their
coming
very act of transgression,
to
in
in.
Not unfrequently are persons
dangerous.
into eternity in the
field, in
going out and
called
appear be-
God, where there is no more space for repentance.

To profane the Sabbath exposes a man to the loss of his
soul. This is an evil, great beyond description. For what
can a man give in exchange for his soul ? A man may lose
fore
4.
his property, his reputation, his health,
and yet be happy

nally WTetched.
dous
5.
To
if
it
he lose his
and even his life,

he must be eter-
soul,
profane the Sabbath, then,
If continued,
evil.
and sink
but
into everlasting
The person who
him,
down
much
a tremen-
darkness and despair.
profanes the Sabbath, does much, by
his example, to destroy the souls of others.
ner destroys
is
will shut the soul out of heaven,
it
good.
to the pit of
He
One such sinwho follow
will lead all those
wo.
Reader, remember the Sabbath-day, and keep

If
sinners entice
do profane
it,
you
you
to
profane
will dishonor
it,
it
consent not: for
God.
you
holy.
if
you
will incur his
OBSERVANCE OF THE LORd's DAY.
\'i
wrath.
You
Y'ou will be in danger of immediate judgments.
will expose
will do
much
to
your own soul
to
destruction
and you
destroy the souls of others.
directions for the observance of the

lord's day.
1.
that
that
Order all your weekly business so wisely beforehand,

you may have no unnecessary work on God's day
your hands may be as free as possible from business,
and your head from worldly cares and thoughts.
Think
2.
about
My
What
and heaven
work?
holy should
how
3.
what a weighty work
am
going
trifles to
this.
are sheep and oxen, or shops and goods, to grace,
Christ,
Ciod's
seriously:
Aveek affairs are but toys and
earnest
in the
my
my
Can
work
thoughts
endeavors
be,'
all
Therefore prepare with
heart and
life
What your
be too careful and serious in
of salvation? Surely no.
how heavenly my
How
discourse,
the day long

all
your mi^ht
search your
find out
sins are^ to confess,
mourn
over,
and pray
against.
What
your
the mercies are
friends, family,
What
you want
for soul or
blessings you have received, and
should be returned.
body
for
and nation.
what thanks
Io.
103.
ETERY MAN
THE
FRIEND OR THE ENEMY OF CHRIST.

In some contests, they who are immediately concerned,
are at liberty, or rather, it is their duty, to take neither part,
because the thing contended for is indifferent in itself, or
because both sides are in the wrong.
There are others,
wherein every man is obliged to favor, at least, if not to join
himself to one of the parties engaged, because one of them
is evidently in the right ; and no man is allowed to be uninterested, when the cause of truth, justice, or virtue is
In the cause of religious truth, every man is a
is inseparably connected, not only
with his thinking right, but in some measure also with his
endeavoring to make others do the same. Happiness is the
effect of true religion.
What, then, is it to he for Christ, and what to be against
him?
man cannot be truly said to he for Christ, who
only bears his name, and declares for him ; since the Scriptures assure us, that not only they are against Christ who
deny him before men in words, but they also " who profess
involved.
party, and his happiness
know, but in works deny him, being abominable,

and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate;" of
whom St. Paul tells us, " even weeping, that they are the
enemies of the cross of Christ."
Who, then, are /or hi?n ? They, no doubt, of whom he
says to the Father, " I have given unto them the words that
thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have
known surely that I came out from thee and they have believed that thou didst send me.
Thine they were, and thou
gavest them me, and they have kept my word."
"They
that are Christ's," says St. Paul, " have crucified the flesh,
with the affections and lusts."
But are there not a third or middle sort of men, who, in
the strictness of these expressions, are neither for our Saviour,
Christ, who best knows his own,
nor against him ? No
It is true, of good men some are
absolutely denies this.
that they
VOL.
III.
39*
EVERY MAN THE FRIEND
and of bad men some are worse than others. The

good are not all equally the friends, nor the wicked all
and for these inequalities
equally the enemies of Christ
ditferent degrees of reward and punishment are reserved in
It is also true, that the best
the determination of our Judge.
of men sometimes fall into sin, and the worst sometimes
But then he, who is to pass
perform good external acts.
sentence on us, knows perfectly where frailty ends and presumption and perverseness begin ; knows who in heart and
life is a good, and who a bad man, that is, who is on his part,
and who against him.
Thus it appears, that, from the throne of God down to
the nethermost hell, there is not, there cannot be, one moral
better,
being, who is not either the friend, or the enemy of Christ. In

the one or other of these lights Christ must regard every man,
and every man must regard himself, at the final judgment.
On that great day, the Judge will pronounce but two sento the good, " Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit
tences
:
kingdom prepared
for you from the foundation of the

wicked, " Depart from me, ye cursed,
into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels."
At that day, there will be no man fomid, who will not tremble under the one, or triumph in the other of these sentences
none who will not be a fit object of either. Here is no middle
judgment between come and depart, nor a middle region between heaven and hell, for the reception of him who is neither
called as a friend, nor rejected as an enemy to' Christ.
Are you, my friend, the enemy of Christ ? If you are
on Christ's part, what passion have you subdued, what appetite denied, what view of temporal profit or honor, though
ever so inconsiderable, have you set aside, to please him ?
Or rather, what sense of his goodness, and your past ingratitude, do you even now feel, to prove to you that you are not
wholly indifferent about him, his religion, or your place
among his followers ? You may " honor him with your
lips;" but if your "heart is far from him," full well he
knows it, for he is a searcher of hearts, and clearly sees
where all the ardor of yours is placed, while he hath only
This you
the worthless compliment of your professions.
may be experimentally convinced of, by an impartial consideration of your prayers, your faith, and the general tenor
the
world ;" and
to the
of vour whole
life.
OR THE ENEMY OF CHRIST.
Your -prayers are seldom offered up to the absolute Disposer of all things ; and offered with such an unaccountable
coldness of heart, as testifies no affection, scarcely indeed a
bare dependence.
Your faith, for want of a thorough conviction, or that
close attention which the great things it sets before you
demand, amounts to little more than a mere opinion as to
the facts suggested in your creed.
Such an opinion is too
weak to have any material effect on your practice, too feeble
to bring futurity into competition with the present objects of
sense and appetite.
Indeed, in so great a degree of dimness
and confusion does the eye of your faith view things to come,
that heaven hardly looks like happiness, or hell like misery,
or either like a reality.
How unlike is your faith to that of a real Christian His
faith draws his very senses into its service.
He believes,
and therefore hears God speaking in his word ; feels God
moving in his heart ; sees the judgment-seat of Christ, with
the glories of heaven, and the horrors of iiell, almost as
clearly as if they were displayed before his eyes.
Nay,
he suffers the anguish of his Saviour's wounds in some degree as if the nails and spear had pierced his own flesh
and triumphs over sin and death in the resurrection of Christ,
with a high degree of that joy he hopes to feel when he shall
!
arise from the
As
pidity
grave himself.
general tenor of yovr Ife, an insensible stu-
to the
damps and flattens all you think, or do, in relation to

Here you know nothing
Here you feel nothing
religion.
But, in regard to this world, you are all alive.

How deepHow warmly engaged
ly read is your understanding here
And for the truth of these observations, I apis your heart
peal to your own breast.
You are ready, it may be, to declare, with an affected
humility, that it is the height of your ambition, in religious
matters, to be an ordinary or middling Christian. Let others,
you say, set up for singularity in holiness; for your part,
you wish to be found even among the lowest class of Christians, and aspire only to a bare acquittal.
And yet you
want not your share of ambition and pride too. Misguided
man. How miserably you mistake that for humility, which
But where is the
is but lukewarmness and indifference
humility of vilifying that religious warmth in others, which
!
IVERT MAN THE FRIEND,
you never
can
felt ?
ETC.
Know, unhappy man,
that there
is,
there
no such mortal as a middling Christian. Neither

the exalted joys promised, nor the shocking torments threatbe,
ened, will sulfer a thinking mind to be indilTerent.

If your eyes are now open, look about you, and tell us
where you are: surely not with Christ, but against him;
with reprobates and wicked spirits, who, in their lusts, and
in the pride of their hearts, have preferred rebellion to gratitude, infamy to glory, and hell to heaven.
Reflect feelingly on what Christ hath done for you, and
as impartially on what you have done to him ; and then see
your ingratitude. He, the Son of God, hath died to save you,
a poor, unworthy criminal, from endless infamy and misery
think how great that infamy and misery
and to bring you
to endless glory and happiness
consider how high that glory
how infinite that happiness How coolly you return this love,
by your formal professions, your dry thanksgivings, your unwilling services, through which scarcely any footsteps of
either your understanding or affections are to be traced.
On the other side are found all your positive sins ; your vile
thoughts
your false, profane, or seducing discourse all
imagined, uttered, committed directly against him who died
:
for
you.
Know, mistaken man, that you are in a state of rebellion

against the Sovereign of the world, and at war with the Almighty.
If your forces are sufficient to maintain this war,
and your armor proof against this two-edged sword, go on ;
but no longer say you are a Christian.
There is not less
sense, and more consistency, in directly contending with
God, than in pretending to be his servant, and yet fighting
against him.
Your
ther
is
case, then, will not admit a moment's delay ; neithere any medium between being " for Christ, and
against him."
Salvation is found only in being for him,
condemnation only in being against him. Awake, consider
this, ere it is too late, and choose your side ; but consider
IT WITH YOUR WHOLE UNDERSTANDING, AND CHOOSE WITH
YOUR WHOLE HEART FOR REMEMBER YOU CHOOSE FOR ALL
ETERNITY
;
Ko. 104.
USEFULNESS OF TRACTS
'M^ American Tract

was formed
New
Society
in the city
of
York, May, 1825, by
a Convention of Delegates
from
and
Tract Societies
friends of religion, of several
evangelical
denominations,
and from different parts of

the country.*
Its sole
object
is to
promote the great design
of the Saviour's mediation and death, by diffusing the truths
and doctrines of
*
The
his gospel.
It
was founded
in prayer,
Publishing Committee of this Society embraces no two
bers from the
same denomination, and no Tract
imously approved.
is
and
mem-
published unless unan-
All the other concerns of the Society are conducted
under the direction of an Executive Committee, elected annually by the

Board.
The
labors of
all
the Society's Committees, and of
its
President
and Treasurer, are performed without any pecuniary compensation.
USEFULNESS OF TRACTS.
dependence on the blessing of the Holy
Spirit
and the
related in the following pages, of the authenticity of
Committee have the most
some extent how richly
show
to
been bestowed,
to
satisfactory evidence, will
that blessing has
facts
which the
the praise and glory of divine grace.
The
large public meeting, at which the Society
The
formed, was one of deep solemnity.

the lamented Rev.
was
words which
last
John Summerfield ever addressed
to
public audience, were delivered at the close of that meeting.
" In
all
the anniversaries," said he, "
attended, in
Europe or America,
which
have ever
have never been so con-
Holy Spirit and Christian love

Again and again I could not refrain
scious of the presence of the
pervading every heart.
from weeping.
The very atmosphere we
atmosphere of heaven
and
inhale,
in w^hich
breathe
the
is
one which angels come down
God himself
to
delights to dwell."
At the Society's first anniversary,
its
character, design, and
the evidences of the divine approbation upon
its
work, were
presented as follows, in an Address of Rev. Justin
Edwards,
D. D., one of the members of the Publishing Committee.

The object of this Society is to deliver immortal souls
from a course of eternal sinning: and eternal suffering
to
transform them into the perfect image of God, and raise
them
to
a state of eternal holiness and bliss in heaven.
The means by which we
are to accomplish
dissemination of the truths which
God has
this, is
form of interesting and impressive religious Tracts.

tlie
truths which
accomplish
God has
this glorious
the
revealed, in the
I
say,
revealed ; for no other truths will
end
such
truths, for instance, as
the utterly lost condition of sinners, and their indispensable
duty, without delay, to love

soul,
and strength, and mind
God with
;
all
their heart,
and
the necessity of being born
again, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the
will of
man, but of God
excellence and glory of
the infinite dignity, divine beauty,
Him
on
whom
their help
is
laid
his
amazing condescension
having not where
in
lay his head
to
becoming a servant, and
ness in bearing their sins in his
his unparalleled kind-
own body on
having laid on him the iniquity of them
all
the tree, and
the necessity
of believing on him in order to be interested in the blessings

of his salvation
known
that
every person
whom
to
under immediate obligation
is
to
he
is
made
embrace him,
repent of sin, and live not unto himself, but unto him that
died for sinners and rose again
"
all that
come
forth
is
coming when
they that have done good unto the resurrection
and they that have done

damnation ;" that the wicked
of
day
that a
are in their graves shall hear his voice, and shall
life,
punishment, and the righteous
evil unto the resurrection of
will
go away
into
into eternal life.
eternal
These are
the truths, with kindred truths, in their divinely inspired
aspect and connection, stamped in bold relief on the face of

religious Tracts, and extended to every city, and town,
and
and family, and soul ; by which this Society is to

aid in renovating a world, and preparing a " multitude that
no man can number," to shine in the beauty of holiness, and
village,
shout the triumphs of grace to everlasting ages.

These are the truths which were proclaimed on the
and
hills
in
the vales of Judea
of Galilee, and
men
of like
spirit,
by which the fishermen

out, and unarmed, in
went
the face of an opposing world, planted the standard of the

These are the truths
cross on the throne of the Caesars.
at the Reformation, scattered the darkness of
papal midnight, and kindled a light that will " grow brighter
which blazed
and
brighter,
they go
even
forth,
to the perfect
opening of the prison
them
to " the
day."
These
truths, as
" proclaiming deliverance to captives, the
Lamb
to
them
that are
bound," and pointing
of God, that taketh
away
the sin of the
world," will cause tears of contrition to drop down from ten

thousand eyes, and ten thousand hearts to pour forth their
strains of gratitude in hallelujahs to the
Redeemer.
These
we have
truths
it is
our duty
to extend, not
merely because
associated for this purpose, but because
revealed them, and
And,
creature.
commanded
extend them
to
do not mistake,
if I
peculiar reasons
us
why
sir,
God has
to
every
there are
some
we, in this country, should extend
them by means of religious Tracts.
We
shall
are a great people, and, if not blasted
become greater and

and the
truth,
religion,
light of
and the
greater,
human
light of civil
by our
sins,
the light of revealed
till
science, the light of true
and religious freedom, shall
blaze from one end of this continent to the other, and with a
We
brightness that shall illumine the world.
God of heaven to make an experiment

most momentous that was ever intrusted to
the
are called
by
and one of the
mortals.
Blessed with a country of almost unparalleled extent

settled
by a people of invincible energy, of ceaseless action,'

enjoying civil and religious
and untiring perseverance
liberty to a greater extent than
globe
any other people on the
holding property of every description, and to any
amount,
pure fee-simple, with the strongest motives bear-
in
ing upon the mass of minds,
we must make
never witnessed
ness, from
and
which we
shall sink,
never bore,
to
effort,
rise to a height
its
all
millions to glory, or from
under a load of
endless perdition.
shouting through
of goodness and great-
shall be the benefactors of the world,
in bearing
and instruments
which we
highest possible
to the
a development of character, such as creation
guilt,
such as earth
Ah, then there would be
the world of darkness,
the sons of darkness, through the universe
and among
all
ages of darkness,
which the gospel has heaved away, would
roll
backward,
and cover millions and millions in deep and everlasting

gloom.
And
are
we
in
no danger of
this
We
are a republic
with no government but that which rests on the will of the

people
and which caimot be perpetuated without holiness
among
Some may
the people.
say,
it
cannot without puhlic
But public virtue never did exist, sufficient to perpetuate a republican government over such an extent of
virtue.
country as ours, without holiness, and

holiness
No means
land.
it
never
This
will.
not the natural growth of a single heart in the
is
produce
will
Of these means
appointment.
it,
but the means of God's
a vast portion of our country-
men are now destitute. Millions and millions, increasing

every day, are destitute of that influence which is so essential to
the preservation of all our social, civil, and religious
Nor
blessings.
this all
is
but each individual of these
And
millions has a soul worth a thousand worlds.
holiness they had better had no existence
spend
it
While
in
for
without
they will
weeping, and wailing, and gnashing of teeth.
speak
it,
see
them borne onward towards
the close
of their probation, destitute of that holiness without which no
one can see the Lord, and destitute of the means of holiness
which God has appointed.
What,
ers
then, shall be done
You have
not got them.
Send them
living preach-
Thousands, with the ardor
of Paul, with the eloquence and might in the Scriptures of
ApoUos, are needed to-day,
Do you
country.
and train up pious

means.
Let these
cuted with
in order fully to
efforts
away
and generation
before they can
stated ministrations of the Gospel.
them
the Bible ?"
this
be vastly increased, and prose-
all possible vigor,
tion will pass
supply
"Encourage Education Societies,

young men for the ministry ?" By all
say,
By
all
means.
be increased and increased,
from one end of the land
till
all
after genera-
have the regular and
Do you
Let
say, "
eflx^rts to
Send
extend
it
there shall not be a family,
to the other, that
has not the sacred
But then multitudes will not read it ; and multitudes more will act directly against its holy dictates.
What, then, shall be done ? Take the truths of the Bible,
and, in " thoughts that breatiie, and words that burn," stamp
volume.
VOL.
III.
-|<
them on the pages of religious Tracts muUiply these Tracts

by thousands and millions; send them forth, attended, in
answer to prayer, by the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven,
;
to
every
and town, and neighborhood, and family, till all

rich, for their sakes becoming poor,
city,
Him who was
shall see
that they, through his poverty,
see
him
And as they
rich.
own body on the tree,"
might be
" bearing their sins in his
and hear him cry, " My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me ?" and the sun shrinks away, the rocks break
asunder, and the dead start from their graves, there will be
mourning
yes, there will be a very great mourning, and
there will be a great turning unto the Lord our God.

Does any one say that many parts of the land have the
Gospel, and therefore
them
town
in the
it
is
not needful to send Tracts to
very centre of one of the most favored
Union had the Gospel
states in the
many
they had a minister of
of his brethren, he
Christ
but, like
say, "
have labored in vain, and spent
nought,"
found no
to
strength for
he obtained a religious Tract, and under the
till
reading of
was ready
my
that,
rest
till,
eigTit
as
persons were convinced of
it is
and when he who was watching

account, they were
all
sin,
and
hoped, they embraced the Saviour

for their souls related this
members of
the church, and adorn-
ing their profession by a godly example.
Sermon after sermon

Another town had the Gospel.
was preached, but passed away unheeded, till a religious
Tract was read, when a revival of religion commenced,
which issued in the hopeful conversion of more than forty
persons.
Another town had the Gospel, and the ordinary means

of grace; but the people
till
a Tract
made
was
grew
stupid,
and
still
more
stupid,
read, and no less than twelve persons
to feel that,
were
" without holiness," they could not " see
Lord ;" and they obtained no rest till, as they hope, they
became the sincere followers of Christ. Others became
the
alarmed, the conviction spread
it
^
and
to others,
to others,
till
issued in the hopeful conversion of more than one hundred
persons.
Ministers of
churches, have
the
Gospel, whose praise
testified,
that
they have
in
is
the
all
often found the
distribution of Tracts, apparently, as useful as all their other
labors.
president of one of our distinguished colleges
informed me,
that,
during a revival of religion in college,
were circulated among the students, which

were read with great eagerness, and with the most manifest
religious Tracts
advantage.
Are
not, then.
who have
those
Tracts needful
A man
all places.
for
such places
in the habit of distributing
Yes, for
them among
not the Gospel, once called at a cottage on
the side of a mountain, and, as usual, asked the inmates if
"
they loved the Lord Jesus Christ.

replied, "
he
is
precious to
my
yes," the
asked her what were the means of leading her

"
woman
He
soul, altogether lovely."
to Christ.
man," said she, " once left here a small Tract. When
he was gone, my child read it aloud, and it made me feel as
if I was lost for ever."
Her impressions deepened and deepened,
till
way of salvation through
a cru-
cified
Redeemer, hopefully embraced him, and found
rest to
she discovered the
Her husband,
her soul.
and since then

soul."
again."
too, said, "
He
gave
me
a Tract,
hope the Lord has showed mercy
" O," said the
woman, "
that
" Well," said the man, "
am
my
to
could see that
man
he."
Another man who had been in the habit of distributing

Bibles and Tracts among the destitute, was afterwards informed by
letter, that
more than
thirty individuals in
town, besides the writer of the letter and his wife, were
now
I
one
all
rejoicing in hope, through his instrumentality.
know
the
man,
sir,
who has had evidence
of more than
one hopeful conversion from a Tract, in a family which had

not the Gospel, and had never seen a Bible.
Tracts are
useful everywhere, and
we must
send them
every family
to
throughout the country.
Does any one say, " This
not impossible.
it
is
to cir-
and was read by three persons besides him
into a family,
received
known
Suppose that each went
culate 70,000 Tracts in a year.
who
No
impossible ?"
is
single individual has been
it
may have
this single individual
been the
means, through the instrumentality of Tracts, of preaching

Let
the unsearchable riches of Christ to 280,000 souls.
be continued for ten years, and this single individual
this
might speak
to
2,800,000, and
they and those around them
them words by which
tell
may
be saved.
This Society may, with the blessing of God, establish

Depositories in every county of every state in the Union,
form Auxiliary Societies
around
every
and
Depository,
soon put in circulation 12,000,000 of Tracts, equal to one
every man, woman, and child, in the country
for
in this distant world,
darkly,
we may
and
if,
and while looking through a glass
see distinctly the reading
of one Tract
connected with the hopeful conversion of eight persons, and

another of forty, and another of one hundred, what
may we
not hope to see, in the light of eternity, from the reading of
may
put in
price, sir, is put into the
hands
12,000,000, which this Society in a few years

circulation.
An
amazing
of this Society, and
if
improved.
Mill,
through grace, be
instrumental in preparing multitudes for glory.

"
ful
No
doubt," says one, "they
but to circulate so
much,
then, will
it
cost?
many
may
be exceedingly use-
will cost too ?nuch.''
$10,000
How
will put in circulation
1,000,000 Tracts, or of Tracts of four pages, nearly 2,500,-
000
if
equal
to
the expense
one for every family in the country.
were borne by every family,
each not more than one half-cent

of these,
if sold
at cost,
may
more, and the avails of those as
in a
year
it
for
and the avails
put in circulation as
many
And
would be
many
more, and so on, down
end of the world.
to the
Is this too
of putting in circulation 2,500,000 Tracts
may
much
purpose
for the
6,000 of which
be furnished for 820, and one of which has, in more
than twenty cases, been the means of the hopeful conversion

of a soul worth a million of worlds
has been expended, in

race
Ten
sum
times this
country, upon a single horse-
this
million of dollars can be raised in a single city,
or town,
any time,
at almost
a single manufactory
for
$7,000,000 can be raised, in a single

" This," says one, "
is
a canal
state, for
a great and noble object.
motes improvements, opens communications, and
pro-
It
facilitates
intercourse between one part of the country and another."

I
acknowledge
it is
a great and noble object.
And
is
there
nothing great, nothing noble, in the everlasting improvement

of 12,000,000 minds? in showing a path, and facilitating
their progress on their
way
to glory, to everlasting
it
would
Tracts,
to glory,
ages
and onward, from glory
More than 3,000 times what
cost to put in circulation, annually, a million of
is
expended
article, not
in this country,
of living, but of dying
the country annually, 30,000
wretched 200,000 more.
every year,
lives,
for a single
an article which costs
and renders utterly
Let us not
hesitate a
moment
about the expense of putting in circulation annually a few

millions of Tracts
but raise the money, and expend
it
most
cheerfully for the Lord of hosts.
But can the money be raised?
know
answer,
it
can.
who once asked a poor man if he

something to make his minister a life mem-
the individual
would not give
ber of the Tract Society

give a dollar
for
and he answered, " Yes,
one of those Tracts has saved
will
me from
ruin."
I
know
the individual
week, and worked hard

on hearing the
I
will give
VOL.
III.
$20
who has worked
too, for
for
effects of a Tract, said, without

to print
it,
and
one dollar a
nearly twenty years, who,
to
40*
keep
it
being asked,
in perpetual cir-
10
culation
for I
have no doubt that
it
has been the means of
saving multitudes.
I
know
when asked by an agent
the individual who,
the Tract Society to give something, said, "
here ?" he answered, "

the person,
'
The Lord,
believe he did
of
you
sent
" Well," said
trust."
have had 820
for I
Who
up
laid
a long time for the Tract Society, and have been waiting
for
some one
to
Money can
come and take
considered as supplied
copy of
it."
he raised; and the country can never be
half the families have a single
till
And
at least half the Tracts.
it
would be exceed-
ingly useful, if every family of children could have access

to a set of the
No
whole.
books, except the Bible, would
promote their salvation. I know the man

who, when a boy, had access to a set of Tracts, and became
be more likely
to
interested in reading them, and impressions
upon
his
mind
that will never be effaced
of his conversion
I
know
is
already
felt
man who, when
Tracts, v/hose mind
was
through
was going
to say, all
his conversion.
But
were fastened
and the
whose heart was
softened,
their instrumentality
Africa will one day bless

see
effect
this land.
a boy, had access to similar
arrested,
and hopefully renewed, through

I
him
rise
and,
God
upward, leaving
for
this
revolted world and taking possession of that " rest which
remains
for the people of
saw him go from place
God."
to
Lately, he was here.
place,
pleading the cause of
Africa, taking her sons and her daughters, and gathering
them
into a
down their
I saw him
church of
Christ.
saw
the big tear trickle
sable cheeks as they experienced his kindness

collect the
furniture of their communion-table,
gather for them a church library, obtain a printing-press,
and go, with his little flock, embracing all the elements of
a civilized and Christian community, and plant them, with
their brethren, in the land of their fathers.
begin
to
sing
when
the
heard Africa
Lord had need of him, and he
winged
way
his
to
But
glory.
prayers be answered, and
mantle will
his
fall,
his
God
for
Africa will yet bless
all
his conversion.
I
know
the
man,
who, when a boy, through the
sir,
kindness of a relative, had access
a parcel of Tracts
to
same which you are now publishing and

and he was led to think of the kindness of
the very
ing
feel his obligations to
him, and resolve, in his strength, that
he would henceforward "
him
that died for
live,
him and
not unto himself, but unto
our
to
receive."
frontiers, the
And
rose again."
since been experiencing that "it
than
circulatChrist, to
Numerous
he has ever
more blessed
is
to
give
destitute settlements, all along
savages in our Western wilderness, the
pagans in the islands of the seas, and throughout Asia, will

one day bless God
for his conversion.
And we must do vastly more than merely to supply our

own country. The Canadas, Mexico, and all South Amermany are now able
ica, are calling upon us to help them
;
to
among our Western
read
Sandwich
Islands,
and more than 10,000,000 in countries

Said a gentleman
around the Mediterranean.

those countries, to
thousands at the
Indians,
men who,
nished him with Tracts
before he
"
distribution,
for
gentlemen, a thousand times, for the Tracts.

told that
ians,
it
was of no use
we
But, gentlemen,
how welcome
the Tracts
know
were
me
uted
all
telling
and pulled
in the streets,
in order to obtain
that
them
them
had.
that
had been
better.
me
Ital-
they would not
You have no
The
which
people ran
into their houses,
that, too, after I
had
distrib-
could hardly pacify them, but by
when
and
fur-
thank you,
in all the ports at
touched, around the Mediterranean.
after
visited
of offering Tracts to
Greeks, Portuguese, and Spaniards
read them.
idea
to think
who
home, had
left
came again
would bring them
more."
Printing-presses are
now
in operation ni connection with
12
the
American mission
at
Malta.
Give them the means,
and Tracts, as cheap as they can be furnished

try,
may
Arabic, and Armenian, and extended

multitudes of
whom
means of grace.
to
is
may put in circulation 100,000

way in which men may, from
love to Christ and to souls, through the
employ property
ciety,
not
make them
10,000,000 people,
are almost entirely destitute of the
$1,000
Here, then,
Tracts.
in this coun-
be printed in Greek, and Italian, and French, and
in a
poor, will
inheritance incorruptible,
medium
of this So-
manner which, while
make many
undefiled,
rich,
it
does
and secure an
and that fadeth not
away.
Thousands and thousands are now perishing, for the

want of Tracts, on the Island of Ceylon. " We visit," said
a missionary, " from two
times
we
to eight
families in a
day
some-
take long journeys, and are out six or eight days.
At such times we take a number of boys from

and we exceedingly need Tracts.
As we
the schools,
pass from village
where the Gospel was never preached, we find

would read, had we Bibles or
to village,
hundreds who can, and
we have none no Bible,

;
but, alas
show the poor heathen how to flee from the
wrath to come. Oh, that we could get a supply printed.
Into how many villages might the Gospel be sent by means
of Tracts and how many souls, by a single Tract, might
Tracts
to
no Tract
give them
to
be saved from endless misery."
And
shall
the
missionary
who
has
left
his
father's
house, his native land, and gone 13,000 miles to
dying pagans of a Saviour, cry
in the ears of a
churches, abounding in wealth, " Oh, that
supply of Tracts printed.

the Gospel be sent
Into
how many
we
tell
the
thousand
could get a
villages might
by means of Tracts, and how many
might be saved by a single Tract from endless

misery " and yet cry in vain ?
Let those churches
souls
answer.
At Bombay
a printing-press, in the midst of a popu-
is
speaking the same tongue, of 11,000,000 of people;
lation,
nearly
whom
J3
whom
of
all
to the
utmost advantage.
and uncertainty
feeling of doubt
strong
among
are destitute of the Gospel, and
Tracts might be circulated
the
exists in
minds of multitudes throughout that country with regard
own
to their
Numbers have come
religion.
clusion that
two opinions, and
are becomiing impressed with the ex-
all
pectation that a great change
many
come twenty
Individuals have
In this state,
strongly desire them.
miles, and
in
America
and
may
be printed at
no part of the world can they be
in
Many
distributed to greater advantage.
of the people would
be likely to receive more instruction from a
which they could read
New
of the
more
some cases
And, writes a
Bombay as cheap
forty miles, to obtain a Tract.
missionary, " Tracts

as in
approaching.
is
they greatly need Tracts, and

thirty and
the con-
to
Multitudes are halting between
false.
is
it
Testament
in five minutes, than
little
Tract,
from the whole
much
because they would be so
likely to read it."
Writes another missionary, " The distribution of Tracts

is
the only possible
tion of the
Gospel
way
in
which we can exhibit any
to vast multitudes
of
por-
genera-
the present
Ministers enough to go and preach to them
tion of India.
We
the Gospel, cannot be obtained.
must
print
and
cir-
culate Tracts, or millions and millions of the present and
future generations must go
broken succession,
And
Tracts
life.
for
told
to the
down without
the Gospel, in un-
grave."
these millions, Mr. President, exceedingly

for
A man
who has
resided
among them twenty
the purpose of investigating their spiritual
me
was an
need
they are exceedingly wretched, even for
that he
knew
of a numerous class with
article of religion
child to live.
condition,
whom
not to suffer a single
One of them, however, on
this
years,
it
female
the birth of a
14
daughter, being overcome by natural affection, resolved to
preserve her
to his
life.
He
secreted her, and intended,
to
preserve her to mature years.
countrymen,
succeeded without
seven years
its
being known,
Then
old.
his
house a daughter.
so
overcome with the
till
she was,
became known
it
And
unknown
I
He
think,
that he had in
being abroad one day, he was
scoffs of his
countrymen, and with
the obloquy which they cast upon him, that he returned,
and with an axe hewed her
And
death.
in pieces.
not only are they miserable in this
Hindoo of a thoughtful,
but in
life,
reflecting turn of mind,
As he saw
but devoted to idolatry, lay on his death-bed.
himself about to plunge into that boundless unknown, he

cried out,
"What
Brahmin who
become of me?" "O," said a

you will inhabit another body."
" shall I go then?" "Into an-
will
stood by, "
''And where," said he,
other."
"
And where
then
" Into another, and so on,
throu2;h thousands of millions."

period, as
though
it
Dartina; across this whole
were but an instant, he cried, "Where

And paganism could not answer. And
I go then?"
he died, agonizing under the inquiry, "
shall
Where
shall
go
of all?"
last
Another Hindoo lay on
his death-bed;
had seen a religious Tract, and had read

and
liim to religious teachers,
ing of his sici<ness,
came
stage of disease
last
head, watching
broke out
in
see
It
had led
friend, hear-
him, and found him in the
him breathe
languishing
liis
his last, the
" Sing, brother, sing."
sing?"
His
and as he bore up
ecstasy,
said he, "shall

tion,
to
to see
to Christ.
however,
he,
it.
dying
"
man
What,"
"Salvation," said he; "salva-
by the death of Jesus"
and
winged
his
way
to
bow
with ransomed millions before the throne.
Let us send Tracts

ners on the globe
truths which
to
those sinners, and all other sin-
Tracts blazing with the effulgence of the
God has
revealed, in the aspect
and connection
15
which he has revealed them, and attended, in answer to

by the Holy Ghost sent down
from heaven and multitudes out of every nation, and kin-
in
the prayers of God's people,

;
Mount
dred, and people, and tongue, will assemble on
Zion,
and open an everlasting anthem " unto him that loved

and washed us from our sins
us,
blood;" and every holy
in his
creature in the universe will cry, " Unto him be glory for
ever and ever."
INFLUENCE OF TRACTS UPON INFIDELS.

As
avowed
respectable
infidel,
Negro, he was led
who had
physician,
was reading
to reflect that
to
When
seek revenge
was
he
hope of salvation by his own works
when
This produced a
He saw
conviction of his sinfulness, guilt, and danger.
What
differ-
injured,
but ihmplous -person,
injured, found relief in prayer to God.
sinner.
Praying
he possessed a very
ent temper from that there exhibited.
he was disposed
long been an
the Tract entitled The
but
felt
himself a
no
lost
then could he do, but look to that Saviour
whom he had so long rejected as not worthy his regard.

By faith in him, he obtained peace and comfort. He then
collected his deistical books at home, and those
and committed them
lent to his neighbors,
that one of these books
to his minister,
how
to sleep
till
it
and stormy he concluded
to
wait
He
Recollecting one night
found the Bible infinitely better.
was lent
was burned
which he had
to the flames.
he
knew
not
but as the night was dark
till
morning.
Then
neither
the severity of the storm, nor the infirmities of his age, pre-
vented the execution of his purpose.

the book, the minister
was
When
fearful that he
he asked
might
still
for
doubt
the truth and inspiration of the Scriptures, and so wish to
read this book again.
But no sooner was

said, " In the
it
This had been his favorite author.
returned, than, with
much
emphasis, he
presence of the Lord Jesus Christ and these
16
witnesses,
in
now solemnly renounce
book."
this
He
much
warns, with
then cast
and
affection
all
the errors contained
into the fire.
it
faithfulness, those
had before led astray, and entreats them
to
He since
whom he
renounce their
embrace the Saviour. His exertions are not

Christians are animated, and sinners alarmed.
errors and
vain,
in
AN EMINENT LAWYER IN ALABAMA.
volume of Tracts was presented in a school to the son

in Alabama, who denied the
of a lawyer of eminence
As
authenticity of the Bible.
took
it
up one day, and
lay on the mantel, he
it
eye
his
fell
on the history of the
by Rev. Legh Richmond.

His first
impression was, that it must be a benevolent religion which
African
Servant,
man
should induce that eminent
welfare of a poor negro
thus kindly to regard the
and as he read the narrative he
could not restrain the conviction, that the same religion
which was necessary
was necessary
negro,
for the salvation of the soul of the
also
for
himself.
"^This," says a
Christian friend, " occurred about four months since

at
and
our communion, two weeks ago, he and his wife unitedly
made a
public profession of religion.
He
of fine talents and a highly cultivated mind,
is
a gentleman
who was
acquainted with the Bible as a history, but had read

strong prejudices against
of the works opposed to
member
of the church.
version,
was
tion of
it,
it.
Two
is
now
of his
was
his con-
money for the distribuyears after, when the agent
sum
or three
an active and useful
first acts, after
of
of the American Tract Society visited the

residence, he
well
with
consequence of reading most
He
One
to appropriate
Tracts."
in
it
place of his
called to preside at a public meeting in
behalf of the Tract cause, delivered a very animated address,
and headed the subscription with $20

for his children.
for himself,
and $10
17
A YOUNG INFIDEL IN NORTH CAROLINA.
A
young
pond,
clergyman of North Carolina says, that a

was walking by the side of a
Baptist
in that state
infidel
when he
discovered two leaves of a book partly in
the water, which he took up, and soon perceived another
fragment of a book lying

still
them
together, they
He
took up the whole, and putting
The
composed an entire Tract.
of it so arrested his attention, that he read
and such were the impressions created
it
an unconquerable desire to read the

ashamed that this wish should be known
He was
Bible.
to
mind, that he
any one
He
devised a plan for procuring a Bible hy stealth.

little
perusal
again and again
in his
felt
lected a
him, and
at a little distance before
farther on, a third.
and
recol-
pocket Bible in his grandmother's bookcase
went and made her a
visit,
and while looking
at,
and praising
her library, secured the Bible under the folds of his coat,
went home and read

the
Lord Jesus
it
in his retired
embraced
chamber
Christ, there set forth as crucified for a lost
world, as his Saviour and
Redeemer
and
is
now
member
of the church, and an active Christian.
INFLUENCE OF TRACTS UPON THE PROFANE.

At
the time of a revival of religion in a village in Ver-
mont, a young
man had become
spend the silence of the night
to
so profane that he
would
invent blasphemies more
horrid than he had heard or before conceived, and com-
memory, would repeat them the next day in

who were laboring under the weight
His father, having become a member
of conscious guilt.
of an Auxiliary Tract Society, brought home a parcel of
Tracts, and addressing his son, said, " Here are some Tracts
The son replied,
I wish you would read them."
for you
with an oath too shocking to repeat, " you may read them
mitting them to
the presence of those
yourself."
VOL. III.
Rut passing the table on which they were

41

28
placed, the
thinking
it
^^Swearer^s Prayer'^ caught his eye, and
title
would help him
and addressing
it,
that Tract to be true ?"
had reason
" Then," said he, "
believed, a
be
still
received
"
No
more profane, he read

you believe
humble and
it
true,"
was
He
bosom of the church,
the
it,
the reply.
never swear again."
shall
to
who wrote
doubt that he
every word of
to believe
since been
to
his mother, said, " Mother, do
has
as
is
penitent Christian.
A SCOFFER AND BLASPHEMER.
An
agent of the American Tract Society in Connecticut,
I became acquainted with a man who, a few months

was a scoffer and a blasphemer ; and so bitterly opposed
says,
ago,
he actually prohibited his
to religion, in all its forms, that
daughter from attending the Sabbath-school.
little
She
continued incessant in pleading with him for permission to

go,
till
at length
he yielded
received a Tract
carried
to
it
She went
her entreaties.
home
her
father's curiosity
he read by power
mind he was
Saviour
length
some time almost
despair
manifest himself
him and he appears now
was pleased
was
excited to
know
of divine grace
it
its
contents
in
for
till
to
to
the
it
fastened convictions on his
the
at
to
be a humble, devoted Christian.
INFLUENCE OF TRACTS ON THE INTEMPERATE.

A FATHER IN
A
1825,
NEW YORK
benevolent lady in the city of
when
CITY.
New
visiting for a Bible Association,
quainted with a family
who by
tained aComfortable subsistence.
health declined
York says, in
I became ac-
industry and frugality ob-
Early
in
expenses were increased
1827 the mother's

;
and
to
complete'
their wretchedness, the father exhausted his earnings at the
dram-shop;
and, as might
be expected, often personally
abused the family.
honest industry
The
19
furniture they had got
little
was taken from them
for rent
by
and on leav-
ing the city the succeeding April, the family were reduced
to
wretchedness.
called to take leave of them, and left
for the father, as a parting present.
enness.
On my
The Rewards of DrunkI ascertained where
New York
return to
they had moved, and expected
to find
a scene of misery.
should have thought myself
But, on entering the room,
mistaken in the place, had
not seen and recognized
friends.
my old
Neatness and comfort characterized the dwelling,
and peace smiled on every countenance.
It
was Saturday
evening, and evident to me, that the sacred rest of the Sab-
bath had been anticipated in the arrangements of the family.
The mother
'
discovered
O, the Tract
things !
My
He
Tract.
the
my
Tract
pleasing surprise, and exclaimed,
the
Tract has got all these nice
hushand never drank after you gave him
seems
to be
the
a refor7ned man, and says the Tract
has made him hajjpy, and brought peace and plenty into his
house.
^^
AN INTOXICATED MAN SAVED FROM SUICIDE.
Report of the
New
York City Tract Society
says, a
gentleman of respectable family and genteel appearance,

while travelling on Long Island, near the
repeatedly in drinking ardent
seem,
to his
came
intoxicated.
usual practice
this situation,
self,
and
city,
contrary,
indulged
it
would
and before he was aware, be-
Deeply mortified
he resolved,
for this
spirits,
in
at finding
a rash moment,
purpose retired
to the
himself in
to
destroy him-
woods.
After find-
ing a suitable place, he took from his hat the handkerchief
with which he intended
to
execute his dreadful purpose
providentially, with the handkerchief he
hat a
little
Tract, which arrested his attention.
the title-page,
Word
in Season.
he
conviction to his heart
He
drew out from
perused
it
It
it
but
his
had on
struck
instantly fell on his knees,
and
20
cried to Gochto have
some time
for
to
mercy on him;
and, after continuing
and made
in earnest prayer, arose,
way
his
a neighboring house, where, happily, dwelt a pious Chris-
Here he gave no
tian.
sleep to his eyes, but spent the whole
God
night, like Jacob, wrestling with
not wrestle in vain.
and we
he did
trust
In the morning he returned to the city,
thanking God for deliverance, effected through the instru-
Word
mentality of the
in Season.
THE TRACT AND THE PEACH ORCHARD.

.
gentleman, formerly a
clergyman, being on a
anxiety to return
member
home
my
of
church, says a
much
a friend, expressed
visit to
within a given time, as he had a
large orchard of peaches which he wished to gather for
His friend remonstrated with him
the distillery.
availed nothing
" Well,
distillery.
if
but
he must go and gather his peaches
said his friend, "
you must go,"
it
for the
I
will
give you a Tract to read," and presented him Kittredge^s
Address.
word
He
accepted
it,
the distillery he had given

that he
to
and read
them
had resolved never again
prepare grain for the
Society in Virginia,
To
Distillers.
On
and soon
after sent
to his
hogs
and further,
to suffer his mill to he
HOME.
person, says the Secretary of a Tract

left
in a tavern at
looking into
it,
the Tract,
the landlord observed on
the cover an article entitled, " The Drunkai'd's
which drew
his attention.
He
read
erably out of humor, wondering

his house.
The
used
distillery.
THE DRUNKARD
Some unknown
it
of carrying his peaches to
to his friend, that instead
result,
sign, declaring that his
who
it,
Home,^^
and became consid-
could have
left that hi
however, was, that he took down his

house should never again be called
" The Drunkard's Home.''
21
INFLUENCE OF TRACTS ON REVIVALS OF

RELIGION.
I
knew, says a gentleman of New Hampshire, a circle

who had been in the habit for more than a year of
of ladies
meeting almost every week
for the
purpose of religious read-
ing.
There was not among them one professor of
They
had, however, read Baxter, and Doddridge, and
other works of a similar character
religion.
many
but, as yet, the ball-
chamber and the party of pleasure presented attractions

much more powerful, and much more congenial to their
But on a certain evening an evening ever memohearts.
an evening on which
rable in the annals of that community
the
Holy
Spirit designed to
change the current of their moral
was selected as the subject of

was put into the hands of a gay
and thoughtless young lady, whose turn it was to read. She
it was the End of Time, by Dr. Watts.
looked at the title
feelings
religious Tract
their contemplations.
It
She began
read
to
she
but her heart was too

panion.
paused
The Tract was
she
attempted
She resigned her
full.
And
read.
to
proceed,
seat to a
com-
the end of time, and
the realities of eternity, were brought into close connection
The
with the scenes of that evening.
from heart
hood
to
to heart,
from family
to
influence extended
family, from neighbor-
neighborhood, and in the short space of a few weeks,
most of the individuals who
first
listened to the reading of
the Tract, with more than sixty others, were led to place
their hopes of salvation on Jesus Christ.
That people had
once been favored with the ordinances of the Gospel.

faithful
and holy
He
forty years.
man had been
their minister
had labored, he had prayed, he had plead
with earnestness the cause of his Redeemer.
wept and mourned

tent sinners,
witnessing
VOL. III.
all his
revival
But he had
days over the hardness of impeni-
and had gone down

a
more than
to his
of religion.
41=^
grave without ever
well
remember
his
USEFULNESS OP TRACTS.
22
prayers
have often witnessed
when
also
and with him buried

Gospel
and
remember
all their
hopes of enjoying a preached
and though years passed away, their hopes never
revived
his tears
the pious few followed his remains to the tomb,
till
the reading of that Tract.
THE TRACT ''POOR SARAH''
IN A DESTITUTE SETTLE-
MENT.
very striking instance of the usefulness of Tracts,
writes a missionary, has occurred in the family of an aged
and godly father and mother, residing some miles distant

These parents had seven sons and
from me, in Ohio.
daughters,
married, and resident in their
all
February
In
vicinity.
last the
own immediate
aged father, aijxious that the
ordinances of the Gospel should be enjoyed by the families

of his children and others, called on me, desiring
and assistance
pel.
could not aid him in
farewell,
my
advice
them a preacher of the Gosthis respect, but, as I bade him
in obtaining for
put into his hand a few Tracts
to
read to his
among which was Poor Sarah, or

The reading of this Tract was the
children and neighbors,

the
Indian
Woman.
apparent means of deeply convicting one of his married

daughters,
who
in believing.
shortly after
was
with joy and peace
filled
This circumstance,
in connection with the
reading of the same Tract, was the means of awakening

another
others
still,
subject of religion
soon became deeply interested

the aged father
religious meetings on the
was urged
Sabbath himself;
in the
to establish
and one and
another of his children, by birth and by marriage, became

seriously impressed, until,
on
my
visiting
found twelve of the fourteen indulging

joicing in
was
a hope
in great
in Christ.
distress of
remained careless.
mind
them
lately,
most of them
re-
One
of the remaining two
one
only of the fourteen
HOW TRACTS WERE USED
23
IN A REVIVAL.
During an extensive revival, says a clergyman in Massachusetts, we have had opportunity to observe the effect of
Tracts, and feel that they have been rendered powerful in-
struments in bringing sinners
to
This has been
Christ.
when they have been
especially the case
distributed with
particular reference to the feelings and character of individuals.
We
have endeavored
but have not hesitated
to distribute
to give, to
any
one,
them
discreetly,
Tracts which
in-
culcate the duty of immediate submission to God, repent-
When we
ance, and faith.
who knew
his guilt
and
have found an impenitent
felt
his danger,
man
and given those
directions or warnings which, in our judgment, his condition required,
it
has been found important, in some instan-
ces, to leave with
of his soul.
stances,
is
him a Tract
The Tract which

read with care
exactly adapted to the state
is
with
given under such circumtears.
It is
often the last
thing an anxious soul reads before the eyes are closed in

sleep.
It
probably
lies
his earliest thoughts
on his pillow, and,
when he awakes.
mental in giving form
to the character,
The
destiny of an immortal being.
Tract
for
such an individual
is
may be,
may be
directs
and shape
to the
it
It
instru-
proper selection of a
vastly important.
When
we have found those who supposed they were reconciled to

God, we have thought it important, that, to personal instruction and counsel, we should add something which the babe
in Christ
obtain the
might carry with him, and from which he might
means of growing
in grace, of
examining
his
heart, and of deciding respecting his religious character.
In this respect, those Tracts which relate to Christian character and experience have been found exceedingly useful.
The summer
past, writes
a lady,
we have been
blessed
with the gentle droppings of that grace which purifies the

24
heart
and not unfrequently have
way
inquiring the
to
heard those
they have observed in a Tract, as one that
Again, those who
astonishing solemnity.
among
chiefest
filled
felt
them with
the joys of
and could exclaim, " None but Christ
sins forgiven,
the
who were
Zion, refer to some sentence which
have often quoted some Tract which they delighted

ruse, because
it
he
is
ten thousand, and altogether lovely,"

to pe-
expressed so entirely the language of their
hearts.
ONE THOUSAND TRACTS IN ALLEGHANY COUNTY,
NEW
An Agent
in
New York
being about to remove

Depository
in
young man
says, a
in
Alleghany county, called
to
and
Utica,
YORK.
about
obtained
one
at the
thousand
These he caused to be faithfully distributed in

Their distribution
the town where he had fixed his abode.
was soon followed by a general revival of religion. BeTracts.
tween
fifty
and sixty professed converts
the fruits of this revival
and nearly
to
Jesus Christ were
thirty
of them traced
had been
their first serious i??i2)ressio7is to the Tracts ivhich
put
into their harids.
WORK
OF GRACE IN THE AMERICAN TRACT SOCIETY
HOUSE.
The Committee
in their third
work of Divine grace

ent
among
the females
employed
stitching Tracts in the Society's
ousness was observed
Report say, an interesting
has, for several months, been appar-
and
in printing, folding,
House.
among them
in
An
unusual
seri-
February of the
last
year, and at no time have the influences of the Spirit seemed

to
be entirely withdrawn.
cended from their

in folding those
lips,
Songs of praise have often
as-
while their hands have been active
messages of truth
and many a Tract has
been wet with tears of sorrow

penitence, before
Since the
for sin, and,
has gone forth on
it
commencement
individuals have been
the
it
is
hoped, of real
errand of mercy.
of the work, forty-one different
employed
in these departments of
whom were
the Society's operations, fifteen of
members of
its
25
Of
church.
previously
remaining twenty-six,
the
eighteen have, since the period above-mentioned, professed
and most of them have connected themselves
faith in Christ,
with churches of different Evangelical denominations in the

city.
work of
similar character, and simultaneous in
among
progress, has also been witnessed
gaged
its
the females en-
house of the American Bible Society.
in the
USEFULNESS OF TRACTS AMONG THE HEATHEN.

Great, says the departed Rev. Dr. Milne, whose loss
lamented by every friend of China
Tract Society
tions to the
and great
pagan lands
exists in these
is
the necessity that
for the exercise
They may
about with one.
the sacred Scriptures can.
books among the Chinese,

be given
missionary
we
calculate either the price,
from religious
stranger
shall find that fifty Tracts
and he will ever
it
in the
find great satisfaction
house where he has
or in putting one into the hands of those with
he has been conversing
way, where
is
or dropping one in the high-
likely to be taken
up by some passing
or in reading and explaining one to those
are inclined to hear.

tant
we
an appropriate one
visiting
whom
benefi-
away for the expense of one New Testament.

among the heathen can carry a hundred
Tracts in his hand

in leaving
been
its
be circulated more widely than

If
or the persons capable of deriving profit
may
of
Tracts are soon read through, and easily carried
cence.
is
great are our obliga-
auxiliary in the
The Tract
Society
work of converting
is
who
a most impor-
the heathen to
26
Christ
and though,
Bible Societies,
in
comparison with Missionary and
holds, in
it
in other respects its utility is
some respects, a lower place,

more immediate, more exten-
and more apparent.
sive,
A BRAHMIN IN INDIA.
We
are informed by Dr. Carey, that a distinguished
Brahmin, who had,
for four years,
observed a
petual silence, in the temple of Kalee, and

as a god, and whose case
of
human
the
all
family,
was apparently
was converted
vow of per-
was worshipped
the most hopeless

to Christianity
by
the reading of a Tract.
CONVERTS IN CEYLON.
Dr.
Scudder, missionary at Ceylon, after urging the
J.
claims of that benighted country upon the American churches, says, " Glad tidings from this place have already reached
you
and we number among those who have been rescued
from heathenish darkness, two, whose attention
to the religion
of the only true God was jirst awakened by religious Tracts.

One of them was a youth of high rank in Changane, who
now
rejoices in Jesus as his Saviour,
from house
to
salvation to others.
near us, was

'
TJie
led,
The
other,
from the attentive reading of the Tract,
Heavenly Way,^
among
to
forsake his idols, and
day of account you
this
almost daily,
is
making known this

a young man who resides
a candidate for baptism and admission

the great
and
house, and in other ways,
will
to the
stands
In
meet a number from
people whose robes have, as
been washed and made white
now
church.
trust,
in the blood of the
already
Lamb
you see this

one and that one pointing to you in that day, and hear them
saying. Behold, there stands the friend who was instrumental
and what rapture will
fill
your
breast, should
27
me a Tract, through which, under God, I, who

was once a poor benighted heathen, have been brought to
know Jesus. Blessing, and honor, and glory, and praise, be
unto Him that sitteth on the throne, and unto the Lamb, for
ever and ever.'^
in sending
communication from the mission here, relates the
striking conversion of a
"No
and says,
young native by reading a Tract,
method of doing good in Ceylon, or India,
is
so promising y with the same sacrifice, as the distribution of
They
Tracts.
are better adapted for general circulation
than even the Scriptures,

find here,
who
read but
among such
little
we
a population as
and they/ee/?io^
the sun,
sink not under the climate, as does the living missionary.
and
^^
TESTIMONY OF DR. MARSHMAN.

" Of the value of Tracts in missionary labor,^^ says Rev.
Dr. Marshman, a most zealous missionary in India, " it is
Portions of Scripture, or Tracts, have
needless to speak.
had something
to
do in the conversion of almost every individ-
ual who has joined the Christian church in India.
LETTER FROM REV. DR JUDSON,

"
^^
IN BURMAH.
can spare time to write a few lines only, having a
constant press of missionary

that the weather
is
work on hand
Poor Boardman has just died under

nearly dead.
Brother
in the mission that
we have
add
to
which,
dreadfully oppressive at this season.
Wade
and
it,
are
and Mrs.
now
Wade is
men
the only
can speak and write the language, and
a population of above ten millions of perishing souls
During
great annual festival is just past.
have given away nearly 10,000 Tracts, giving
I presume there have been six
to none but those ivho ask.
Some come two or three
house
the
applicants
at
thousand
before us.
The
this festival I
2Q
months' journey, from the borders of Siam and China
we hear
that there
an eternal
is
We
hell.
Doctor, give us a writing that will
us
tell
'
Sir,
are afraid of
how
to
it.
escape
Others come from the frontiers of Cassay, a hundred
it.'
miles north of
Ava
'
we have seen
Sir,
a writing that tells
Are you the man
us about an eternal God.
gives
that
away such writings ? If so, pray give us one, for we want

Others come from the
to know the truth before we die.'
interior of the country, where the name of Jesus Christ is a
Are you Jesus Christ's man ? Give us a
little known
writing that
'
works day and night

supply us
Brother Bennett
about Jesus Christ.'
tells
press; but he
the
at
for the call is great at
is
unable
Maulmein and Tavoy,
to
as
well as here, and his types are very poor, and he has no
efficient help.
have
to
The
fact
complain, that
supported from home.
we
are almost
worn
It is
out,
we are very weak, and

we have not been well
most distressing to find, when
that
and are sinking, one after another,
many
into the grave, that
are' just as hard
is,
hitherto
of our brethren in Christ at
and immovable as rocks
home
just as cold
whatever they
mans,
flesh
we
do,
cannot
and blood
like
sit still
and
But
repulsive as the mountains of ice in the polar seas.
and see the dear Bur-
ourselves, and, like ourselves,
possessed of immortal souls that will shine for ever in
heaven, or burn for ever in hell
down
And
them.
we
cannot see them go
without doing our very utmost to save
to perdition
thanks be
to
God, our labors are not
in vain.
We
have three lovely churches, and about two hundred

A spirit of
baptized converts, and some are in glory.
religious inquiry
is
extensively spreading throughout the
country, and the signs of the times indicate that the great
renovation of
Burmah
is
drawing near.
O,
if
we had
about twenty more, versed in the language, and means to

spread schools, and Tracts, and Bibles, to any extent,
happy
should be.
But those
rocks, and those icy
how
moun-
have crushed us down
tains,
must not leave

I
my
work
many
for
29
my
write a letter home, except
However,
years.
to write letters.
It is
seldom that
journal, and that
am
obliged to do."
MISCELLANEOUS EVIDENCES OF USEFULNESS.

INFLUENCE OF TWO TRACTS IN A MILITARY ACADEMY.
The late professor of ethics and chaplain of the Military

Academy at West Point, (Bishop Mcllvaine,) presented four
Tracts to a student who called on him, two of which he
requested him to read for his own personal benefit, and the
was The Last Hours of the Hon.
drop where some of his sceptical fellow-
other two, one of which
Francis Newport,
to
students would be likely to find them.
One week
after-
wards, on Saturday afternoon, another student called on him
and
said, "
You do
and then burst
not
into
The
utter a word.
know me,
My
connected with religion
is
my name
professor, convinced
of his distress, said to him, "

grief
sir
;"
is
For some time he could not
tears.
what was the cause
friend,
if
if,
as
you desire
your
become a
I trust,
to
servant of God, be encouraged to open your heart to me,

" I do desire to
whose heart is already open to you."
become a servant of God,"
said he.
his further utterance for a
few moments.
what were
Being then asked
the circumstances of his case, he replied, "
Tract was lying

imagine how
made
Deep emotion prevented
it
in
my
got there
room
;
but
Saturday.
last
I
took
a powerful impression upon
it
my
up, read
mind.
It
cannot
I
it,
and
it
was an
account of the death of an infidel.^''

On being requested to
give some account of the previous state of his mind, he said
he had not actually considered himself an infidel, but hud

been very profane, and in the habit of speaking lightly of
religion,
VOL.
and nothing had effectually arrested

42
III.
his attention
USEFULNESS OF TRACTS,
30
till
he read the Tract.
He, not long after, gave evidence

had been born of God, and united himself to the
that he
communion of
He
church.
the
soon
manifested
much
anxiety for the student through whose instrumentality he
To
had received the Tract.
"
the professor, " next to
you,
debt
him, under God," said he to
sir,
and, by the help of God,
we have him among
owe an immeasurable
him alone till
will not let
few days after, he called upon

young man, from whom he had
" Here he is, sir,"
received the Tract, leaning on his arm
said he; "the Lord has brought him."
Unable to restrain
his emotions at beholding what he hoped the Lord was doing
for him, the professor threw his arms around his neck, and
us."
the professor, with this very
"
blessed him.
not the
first
no longer.
It
was
time
I will
in reading
first felt his
with the
can hold out no longer," said he

I
have been often called.
" this
is
can hold out
be a servant of God, henceforth, for ever."
The
Shejjherd of Salisbury Plain, that he
heart expanded with love to God, and bursting
of prayer.
spirit
" Behold,
how
great a matter a
These two young men are now active

members of the church of Christ; they have distributed
thousands of Tracts among the destitute, the ignorant, and
little fire
kindleth."
the perishing
they are both zealously engaged in the cause
of Sabbath-schools
by one of them a school of a hundred
children has been raised up, where, in a population of a
by
means of grace,
thousand, the gospel has scarcely ever been preached
among
one,
a people destitute of the regular
meetings
social
for
prayer and instruction are held every
week by the instrumentality of one of them, as many as

ten, who just now were dreadfully wicked, have been hope:
fully
converted,
and are so altered as
consecrate their lives

be,
new
we
trust,
fruits in
to
astonish their
Both have made up their minds
former companions.
to the
through
to
ministry of the Gospel, and will
many
years, continually gathering
testimony of the unspeakable blessings which
may
31
flow to the church and to the world through the instru-
mentality of one religious Tract.
A TRACT ENCOUNTERED BY A LITERARY GENTLEMAN.
An
officer of a
college, says the report of the
Tract
Society at Boston, called one morning on a neighboring
clergyman, and being seated
He
arrested.
read
it
alone, took up the
His attention was powerfully
through, and saw and
be a condemned sinner.
ner's only refuge
room
in a
Tract Sixteen Short Sermons.
At
the
A crucified redeemer.
Tract was the means, under God,
that
himself to
felt
same time he saw
attributes his first conviction of sin
and
The
to
his
the sin-
reading of
which he now
hope of pardon.
A SWEARER AND GAMBLER.
A minister of the gospel informed me, says an Agent in

Alabama, that about two years ago he had a neighbor who
was a profane swearer and gambler. The minister conversed with him as he had opportunity, and at length put
into his hand The Swearer^ s Prayer.
He at first determined
to
throw the Tract away without reading
by
curiosity,
when he was
he had read the

" This
my
is
days
first
but influenced
it.
He now saw
have been offering nearly
impious
through, and stood
should do.
and dissipate
blers.
still
first
He
request.
for
some time
he resolved
to
Bible
he read
God
reflecting
what he
go home, take his horse,
his serious impressions
to his
lest
read the Tract
among
But on reaching home he relinquished
and resorted
the
At
all
the dreadful import of his oft-re-
peated prayer, and trembled with apprehension,
should grant his
When
page he paused and reflected thus
the prayer which

!"
it ;
alone he began to read
it,
a club of
gam-
that resolution,
but the more he read
more clearly he saw himself ruined by
sin.
In a few

32
days he was rejoicing
in
Two
hope of pardon.
months afterwards he united with the church
or three
at
and
he has since given good evidence of being a true convert.
TESTIMONY OF A CLERGYMAN AT THE WEST.

Tract Societies, writes a clergyman
under God,
The
the
West,
at the
are,
hope of this land; and will be for years.
inhabitants are so
mixed and multiform
in their religions,
except in a comparatively few favoi'ed spots, there are
that,
scarcely enough active Christians, of any one denomination,

to
Nor
support the preached Gospel.
people.
book
is too
voluminous
are they a reading
be read.
to
Tracts meet
and they
and they preach by day and night
and they preach parents and childrenthey preach
and they can be changed
sermons and
and
small expense and they
while
hearer
and begin again when
or when he grows
ready
hear and they can bear
without
he
and
without becoming vain contempt and
them no
and
they
They preach
precisely our wants.
without pay
preach without fear
at
to
short
frequently,
plain,
the
stop
at
insults
to
is
repining,
favor
poverty, present to
scorn,
is
impatient,
sleeping,
terrors
rest as
confortably in the unthatched cabin as in citizens' palaces,
and
live as happily
tuously
they have
with the poor as those
no ears
to
hearken
who
of fevers and pestilences in the wilds of the
sympathies are not confined

nor their
No.
efforts in
They go
to
them
saving to those
to the lost
to the
who
poor.
sump-
their
pay them,
best entertain them.
Gospel preachers
to
those wandering upon the
mountains and in the wilderness

Gospel
West
that can best
forth in the spirit of
the broken-hearted
fare
to terrible reports
they go
to
preach the
No. 105,
THE
HAPPY WATERMAN
OR,
HONESTY THE BEST POLICY.
GENTLEMAN w ho vvas one day a passenger on the river

Thames, observed on the stern of the boat these words:
" Honesty the best Policy."
Taking notice of it, he determined
to
enter into conversation with the
and, inquiring into his situation in
life,
Waterman
found that he had a
wife and five children, and supported also an old father and
mother-in-law by his
was
still
own
more desirous
to
The gentleman upon this

know why he had given such a
labor.
"I can
and asked him the reason of it.
your satisfaction," answered the young
man, "if you will give me leave;" and being desired to
proceed, he spoke as follows:
title to
his boat,
easily explain this to
v'lU..
Tif.
42*
THE HAPPY WATERiMAN.
My
"
father and mother died a few years ago, and left a
large family
my
father was a waterman, and I was his

management of a ferry-boat, by which he
family
on his death, it was necessary, in
assistant in the
supported his
order
it
pay
to
his just debts, to sell
even with tears
my
boat back again.
it,
and
guineas
it,
but told me, as
for
design
it
thought, and
way
fair
"
we
to obtain
was
at this
my
me on
person
who
he had given
five
to the
the owner, that
my
'
Shall
heart bounded at the
utmost in an honest and
object.
time married to a good young
woman, and
She was healthy,
industrious,
lived in a small cottage.
and careful.
spurred
raise five pounds.
my
resolved to do
was once
whenever I could
the boat be mine again V said I
should have
went
my
him
had bought
told
parted from
I felt
use every kind of diligence to
to industry, for I said I will
purchase
our boat.
but the distress that
We
loved one another dearly, and, united in
what might we not undertake ?

Always do what is right
labor diligently, and spend your money carefully ; and God
We treasured up these rules, and
will bless your store.'
My wife had long
determined to try the truth of them.
I loved them as my
chiefly supported two aged parents
own and the desire of contributing to their support, was an
our affections and our
My
efforts,
father used to say to
me,
'
additional spur to
my
endeavors
to
repurchase the boat.
entered myself as a day-laborer, in the garden of our squire
and
my
wife
was
vices at the house
called occasionally to perform

;
and employed herself
spinning, or knitting at
was
home
not a
suffered to pass unemployed.
We
some
ser-
in needle- work,
moment
day
in the
lived sparingly
not
a shilling was spent at the ale-house, nor on any improper

object ; and by these means we were enabled to contribute
a
little
charity
both to the support of religion, and to real objects of

;
and also
to drop,
every week, a
a fairing-box, to buy the boat.
If
brought us an additional shilling,
little
overplus into
any accident or charity
we
did not enlarge our
THE HAPPY WATERMAN,

expense, but kept
the boat
for
it
were, the more comfortable
we
The more careful we

we were more inde-
felt, for
pendent, and daily approached nearer to the object of our
Our
wishes.
family indeed
friends increased
which furnished our
my
cottage,
and the content and cheerful-
drew the
it,
notice of our rich neigh-
master and mistress particularly, whose rule
bors
was
to assist the industrious,
They
but not to encourage the idle.
did not approve of giving
money
this
cash for the
little
poor
to the
but in
buy things
cold winters, or dear times, allowed us to
cheaper rate
our
it
the cleanliness and frugality
ness that appeared in
of
but with
increased,
for
also
at
when we counted our

week's marketing, all that was saved to
was money
to us, for
us by our tickets to purchase things at reduced prices, went

into
our
'
little
penny
If our children got a
box.'
at school
reward, or a present from a neighbor for any
for a
service done, instead of buying gingerbread with
brought
it
home and gave
help to buy the boat.
it
to their
felt it
my
mother, saying
duty
to
their infancy, to be obliging, industrious,
up a child
train
in the
way he
assurance of God's promise, that
teach them, from
not depart from

"
time,
Thus our
till
desired
recol-
and when we
we have
should go,'
'
they
would
it
and careful
lecting that early habits are most lasting

*
little
it,
when he
the
he will
is old,
it.'
little
store insensibly increased
one pound only was wanting of the
and often
my
the blessing of heaven
dear wife and
used
was very observable
from time
sum
to
so
to
much
remark, that
in the success
of our honest endeavors.

"
But the following accident seemed
hopes.
Coming home one evening from
the road a small pocketbook
bank note of
my
ten pouiids,
master, for his
him passing
that
to disappoint
my
work,
and on opening
it,
I
I
our
saw
in
found a
which plainly enough belonged to

it, and I had also seen
name was upon
way
in the
ever, to return to the house,
evening
I
it
went on
being too
my
way.
late,
how-
When
THE HAPPY WATERMAN.
4
told
my
family of the incident, the
into a transport of joy.
matter?'
'
ones were thrown
little
dears,' said
I,
have two or three boats

and asked them
if
!'
'
what
checked them by
money
they recollected whose
is
the
we may now
O, daddy, the boat! the boat!
'
They
My
my
looks,
that was.
said, Yours, as you found it.'

I reminded them that
was not the real owner, and bade them think how they
would all feel, supposing a stranger was to take our box of
money, if I should happen to drop it on the day I went to
buy back the boat. This thought had the effect on their
young minds that I desired they were silent and pale with
'
the representation of such a disaster, and
be a lesson
to
them never
to forget the
would wish others to do

aside from what God had made
as they
to
begged
them
;'
'
and never
their duty.
might
it
golden rule of
doing
to
turn
also took this
opportunity to explain to them, that the possession of the boat
by dishonest means would never answer, since we could not

Nothing, I
expect the blessing of God upon bad deeds.
think, sir, is of greater consequence than to embrace such
opportunities for warning children against what is wrong
and for earnestly pressing upon their tender minds these
principles of religion and morality, which are the means
appointed by heaven for guiding their youthful minds to
what
is right.
Early religious instruction has been an un-
speakable blessing to me.

" To go on with my story
The
next morning
put
my work, into my master

tending, as soon as the family arose, to give
but what were my feelings, when, on searching in my bosom,
the pocketbook into
my
bosom, and went
to
it
I hasted back along the road

was nowhere to be found
came, looking diligently all the way, but in vain there
were no traces of any such thing. I would not return into
it
my
felt
my
also
cottage, because
;
and
in the
wished
hope of
still
to
save
my
work, following another path which
gone by.
On my
family the pain
recovering the book,

I
went
recollected
return to the garden-gate,
I
I
to
had
Was
THE HAPPY WATERMAX.
accosted by the gardener, who, in a threatening tone, told

I was suspected ; that our master had lost a pocketbook,
me
describing what
had found, and that
being the only
man
absent from the garden at the hour of work, the rest of the
men also denying that they had seen any such thing, there
was every reason

fore
to
conclude that
my
could answer,
must have got
it.
Be-
distressed countenance confirmed
and another servant coming up, said I was

detected, for that a person had been sent to my house, and
that my wife and family had owned it all, and had described
I told them the real fact, but it seemed to
the pocketbook.
the suspicion
every one unlikely to be true; every circumstance was

against me, and (my heart trembles to look back upon it) I
was
arrested,
and hurried away
innocence, but
did not
to
wonder
prison
protested
no
that I gained
my
credit.
Great grief now oppressed my heart ; my poor wife, my

dear children, and my gray-headed parents, were all at once
plunged into want and misery instead of the ease and happiness which we were expecting, all our hopes were blasted
:
very time when we were just arriving at the height

of our earthly wishes ; and what was worse, my character
was tarnished, and all my ungodly fellow-servants, whose
practices I had often condemned, were triumphing, and reat the
viling religion on
"
My
my
account.
misery seemed almost complete
accumulated sulferings
and under these
should certainly have sunk, if the
consolations of religion had not borne
me
up.
knew, how-
was innocent and in frequent and fervent prayer

endeavored to commit my way unto the Lord, and trust
ever,
'
in him.'
" I resolved that, having been the cause (though without any design) of the second loss of the property, I would
far as
offer the whole of our little store to make it good, as
in
my
power
and accordingly sent
give her this sad commission.

I
But
for
alas
my
!
dear wife, to
when
found this sacrifice could be of no avail,
'
for,'
she came,
said she,
THE HAPPY WATERMAN.
6
*
my
master has been
how you had found

again
and
when
at the cottage,
him
told
freely
the note, but unfortunately had lost
added, that
was
sure, both I and
my
it
hus-
band would make the best return in our power; after

which I produced our little fairing- box, and begged him to
accept the contents, which had been so long raising, as all
we had to offer :' but, sir," said the Waterman, " conceive
my
when she
agony,
added, that
my
master angrily refused,
was
was impos-
saying, that our being in possession of. all that money,
of itself the clearest proof of

sible,
my
with
my
my
guilt
for
it
large family, and no greater opportunities
I could come honestly by such a

was determined to keep me in jail till
My unhappiness was very great
I should pay the whole.
however, my mind by degrees began to be more easy, for
I grew confident that I should not trust in God and my
than
sum
neighbors, that
therefore he
own innocence
in
vain
fellow-laborers proved
up the pocketbook
minutes after
me
to
after I
and so
it
happened
one of
my
who had picked

having come a few
be the person
had dropt
along the same road
it,
to his
work, and hear-
ing that the suspicion had fallen altogether upon me, he
was tempted
to
turn the accident to his
conceal the property

a few weeks,
for
till
',
own
which having kept
advantage, and
in his
own box
he thought no suspicion would
rest
upon him, he went and offered the note for change, and being then suspected, my master had him taken up, and I was
released.
"
The second change, from so much misery to happiness,

My master sent for me, and
too much for us.
many expressions of concern for what had passed,
was almost
with
made me
give him an account of the
means by which
had collected the little fund that fixed his suspicions so

strongly upon me. I accordingly related the history of it,
and when I came to that part, where
as I have now done
I checked my children for their inconsiderate joy, on their
;
finding the note, he arose with
much
kindness in his looks,
THE HAPPY WATERMAN.

and putting the bank-bill
I
it
my
into
the bank-note shall be theirs.
hand, he said,
Take
'
it
the best and only return
It is
can make you, as a just reward of your honesty and

will be a substantial proof to your children of the good:
ness of your instructions
they will thus early see and
for
of honesty and virtue
feel the benefit
!'
" This kind and worthy gentleman interested himself
much
purchase of
in the
week,
had
in
my
my
boat, which, in less than a
possession.
The remainder
my
of
master's bounty, and the additional advantage of the ferry,
have placed
me
humbly
God
trust
comfortable circumstances, which
in
tinue our labor and honest diligence
my
and
long experience, that the fruit of our
always sweetest.
able to help others
my
ferry, as
story
have now
for
also
con-
can say, from
own
industry
is
the pleasure of being
when a rich passenger takes my

known in the neighborhood, he
well
is
me more
often gives
we
will continue to us, as long as
than
my
fare,
which enables me
to let
the next poor person go over for half price.

"
employment in this way has become also a pleas-
My
ure.
see the blessing of
industry
my
and when
little
earnings,
My
ment.
God on my
go home
find
it
to
my
a paradise of domestic enjoy-
our slender circumstances

always contriving how she can make me
is
happier at
home than anywhere
waiting
share a father's smiles, and
little
little
to
else.
My
children are
tell
me
what has passed during the day.

cottage, though poor, is always neat and
the ale-house,
many
By
all
their
And my
tales of
orderly, and the habitation of peace.
than
honest and lawful
family at night with
wife, according as
permit,
will
clean,
and
never frequenting
save daily from sixpence to a shilling more
others in
my
employment; and
this,
put into
one of the Savings Banks lately instituted for the benefit

of the poor, has amounted, last year, to twelve pounds.
Vice and extravagance,

ery
but godliness,
sir,
are the fruitful parents of mis-
as the Scripture says,
'
is
profitable
"
THE HAPPY WATERMAN.
all things, having the promise of the

and of that which is to come.'
unto
The gentleman was exceedingly
life
becoming acquainted with
now
and from
his family,
he did him
every service in his power, giving books and schooling

the
little
to
would make the aged
ones, and such things as
parents comfortable,
is,
Wa-
pleased with the
terman's story, and the piety of his remarks

this time,
that
as long as they survived.
He was
very desirous of knowing what became of the unfortunate

fellow-laborer, who had so dreadfully gone aside from the
and he learnt that he was, after a

by his master, at the
earnest entreaty of the honest Waterman and the thought
of what he had done, together with the generosity of the
Waterman, had so strong an effect upon this poor fellow,
that he afterwards had it written upon his cottage door.
Do AS YOU WOULD BE DONE UNTO. This simple and certain rule is the same to all ranks; it is the sum of the
second table of the law ; and the man who does not act
under its influence, shows too plainly that he has never
been changed by the renewing of his mind. For the Scrip,
tures assure us that every man is by nature " dead in trespasses and sins," Eph. 2:1; but when he becomes a new
principles of honesty
short imprisonment, set at liberty
man, and
is
"created
in Christ
Jesus unto good works,"
the dispositions and affections of his
mind are changed
and
and regular, and honest conduct are the most

certain evidences which we can have, that he is a Christian.
Christianity is not that empty and notional thing which
many take it to be. It is not a mere name ; a Sabbath cerhis devout,
a compliance with the customs of a country. It

;
changes a man's character and conduct ; makes him contented, industrious, and useful, like this honest Waterman.
And if it does not this, it wants the signature of heaven ;
emony
and the man who professes
it,
while he maintains not a
conversation becoming the Gospel,
own
soul.
is
only deceiving his
Date Due
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S".

AMERICAN TRACT SOCIETY

NASSAU-STREET, NEW YORK.

74. Great Effects

By Rev. Ebenezer Por16

William Kelly, or The Happy Christian.

The Danger of Delay,

87. Conversation in a Boat

between two Seamen,

The Shipmates. A Supplement to No. 87,

and Family Religion.

Benj. Trumbull, D. D., 20

The Forgiving African,

Benefits of Sanctified Afflictions,

97. History of Old Shusco,

The Wedding Garment,

Saturday Evening Dialogue,

the Friend or the

The Happy Waterman,

Honesty the best Policy,"

following arguments have frequently been adduced

That they are

not forbidden in Scripture,

That mB-ny professed Christians indulge

not carried to excess,

means of relaxation, and give

additional relish to retirement

Some, not altogether

satisfied with these

adopt a more specious kind of reasoning.

apparently lament the unhappy tendency of fashionable

amusements, but conclude that

the evil is past all remedy.

People, say they, will have their recreations.

be persuaded to relinquish these, they would probably adopt

more extravagant and

replied, that there

things not particularly forbidden in Scripture,

are, nevertheless, contrary to the obvious spirit of

are not forbidden, in so

our neighbor's house on

yet nobody imagines that

the wilful perpetration of such a deed

reason, in this case, from the general tenor of Scripture,

property and happiness of

which the Scriptures are not

that the Scriptures should

name every crime

reason in other cases,

particularly specify and

calculated to answer the

purposes of divine revelation, as few would find time to read

existed, in their present form,

during the time of our Saviour and of his apostles, there

evidence of their being practised

scarcely be pretended that Paul and his associates in the

ministry were fond of cards or dancing.

could not be met

preach the Gospel

tating their holy example, prevented the necessity of partic-

no particular importance, unless

amusements are not forbidden by the general

be proved that these

will hereafter be fully