closed up in the earth; surely this is from an enemy, for when death has done its work, what matters where the body is?  There is nothing I desire so much as to live and die a Christian.  I hold fast the hope through Christ; yet I cannot perceive improvement, although I have at times been much led out in prayer.  Last night, while meditating on my state, with earnest prayer for the direct witness of the renewal of my nature, the assurance was given, ’I have graven thee on the palms of my hands.’  I want not to spend, but to redeem the time with Mrs. D. Called to see Mrs. T., who is very weak in body, but trusting in the Lord.  I knelt down to pray, and had not uttered many words before she broke out in prayer and praise, expressive of her firm confidence in the Lord Jesus.  It was a melting season.  It is encouraging to see the power of grace thus manifested in the midst of pain and weakness, and bearing up the subjects of it.—­We met to make fresh arrangements for the Clothing Society, when, much against my own will, I was reappointed Treasurer:  but, as it is a cross, I will try to take it up.—­Took tea with my daughter.  All the preachers and their wives were present.  I was both pained and profited,—­profited in singing and prayer, and pained whilst endeavouring to defend an absent brother.—­Resigned my office in connexion with the sewing-meeting with peace of mind.  Yet, on reviewing the three years during which I have held it, I can only say, unprofitable servant; for, although I have endeavoured to please God in the faithful discharge of my duty, my doings have been mixed with much imperfection.  Called to see a young woman in the small-pox, who is crying for mercy.  I have visited her several times.  Her cry continues, mingled with the hope that God will save her.  I am sure gratitude ought continually to burn upon the altar of my heart.  Even when passing through darkness, light has sprang up to illumine the path; but when I consider my returns, I am filled with humiliation.  What shall I do?  I will try to do better; Lord, help me, I am Thine.”

  I am Thine by purchase great,
    Made, redeemed, sustained by Thee;
  By surrender, now I wait
    All Thy pleasure upon me.

“1845.  Took tea with Mrs. W., and had the opportunity of urging her husband to seek the salvation of his soul.—­My dear Eliza was this morning again made a mother.  Another little boy to put in the covenant grant.  Just as I write the promise is given, ’Thy children shall be all taught of God, and great shall be the peace of thy children.’  So may it be; I desire nothing more.  This afternoon I have had a fall, and was miraculously preserved from injury.  I record it as an acknowledgment of the kind care which providence has exercised over me.  What will be the end of these struggles respecting Maynooth College?  Will Romanism or Protestantism prevail?—­I saw Mrs. R. three times today; the second she expressed hope in God; the third the