“To-day I attained the term of life allotted to man.  Rose a little before six, and resolved to dedicate myself afresh to God.  Wrote a few lines, read a little, and performed my customary duties.  Worked till dinner, after which I visited three poor widows,—­relieved, and prayed with them; then collected subscriptions to assist G.B.  Called on Mrs. W., who kindly welcomed me; also Mrs. Isaac, with whom I found it good to engage in prayer.  Went to the prayer-meeting, where I endeavoured to give myself unreservedly to God.  Remained to the band-meeting, in which the power of God was manifestly revealed.  Throughout the day I have enjoyed a calm repose, and a fixed resolve to consecrate my services, so long as I am spared, to the Lord.

“Harrogate.—­Returning from Chapel, I observed a number of gentlemen sitting under a tree reading newspapers.  On the spur of the moment, I stepped up to them, and said, ’Gentlemen, perhaps you had better lay aside the papers, and read your bibles to-day.’  One answered very roughly, ‘You go home and say your prayers.’  I turned away, and he continued talking as long as I was within hearing.  When I got home my soul was drawn out in prayer that God would have mercy upon them.—­Through a continued rain I went to meet the Lord’s people; but singular to relate, though I waited ten minutes, no one came.  Just as I was about to return, a stranger came in—­desirous of fleeing from the wrath to come.  We spent the hour in prayer.  My friend found encouragement, but not the power of faith.  It was a time to be remembered.  My heart yearned over her while, in a low tone—­mingled with tears—­she poured out her soul before the Lord.”

  OLD AGE.

  Does no bright star arise to cheer
    The Pilgrim’s downward way? 
  When age and feebleness appear,
  And wrapt in cloud, the night draws near,
  Can nought enfeebled nature cheer,
    And save it from dismay?

  Jesus, Thy promis’d aid is sure
    To all who trust in Thee;
  Thy strength in weakness shall assure
  Frail trembling nature, and secure
  The grace in patience to endure,
    Till death shall set me free.

“During the last fortnight, two persons—­whom I have often visited in former afflictions—­have passed away.  Now—­their knowledge far surpasses mine.  I am not at the Lord’s house, as my husband desired me to remain at home with him.  Yet ’I have loved the habitation of Thy house.’  Age brings infirmity; but I see a danger of yielding too much to increasing weakness.  Lord, save me from spiritual sloth.  While I write, let inward religion be communicated.”

XXI.

THE WIDOW.

  “SHE THAT IS A WIDOW INDEED TRUSTETH IN GOD; AND CONTINUETH
  IN SUPPLICATIONS, AND PRAYERS, NIGHT AND DAY.”—­1 Tim. v. 5.