of self-gratification, or worldly policy:  besides, his very object may be frustrated; it may turn out, that the change from an active to an idle life, may bring disquiet instead of repose.  But in the present instance, the disadvantage was overcome by the force of christian principle.  Mrs. Lyth did not relinquish her exertions in the city, while a new sphere of usefulness opened itself in the village, near which they came to reside.  Twice a week, as often as health permitted, she visited the city to meet her classes; sometimes walking the whole distance there and back.  The day was generally spent in seeing her absent members, visiting the sick, or availing herself of public, or social means of edification.  The effect of these exertions upon her own delicate frame, was painful; and, combined with other causes, occasioned, during her four years’ residence at Eastfield House, frequent and severe attacks of sickness.  But we resume her own notes.

“I came to Eastfield House, which is now to be my home during my pilgrimage on earth.  Thank God, I feel I am but a stranger and a sojourner.  A variety of circumstances have engaged my attention, and interrupted my quiet; but when shut in from the world, to hold converse with God, I have tasted superior pleasure.—­I went early to York, and spent the day in seeing the sick, and other members of my classes; visiting the school, attending my band, and meeting my class.  Most of these engagements were profitable to me, and I hope to others.  I went out with the conviction that I was the Lord’s labourer.—­My niece, Hannah, is apparently near eternity.  She tells me she is happy, and I cannot doubt it; for last evening while praying with her, my faith acquired such strength, and I was so filled with love and confidence, that when I rose from my knees, I could not help saying, ‘The Lord has blessed you.’  She answered, ‘Yes:’  but whether at that moment, or earlier in the day, I cannot tell.  The work is the Lord’s.—­After an affliction, of some months, and a fortnight’s confinement to bed, Hannah has left us.  For two days she was insensible, but the last she was remarkably tranquil, with a very pleasing expression of countenance.—­My greatest joy is in communion with the Lord and His saints:  this has been a high, day; I have been unusually assisted in speaking to the Lord’s people; and many appeared to feel the power of God.  At the close of the meeting, Mrs. B. called upon me, and we went to Mrs. Vevers’, where we united in prayer; and from thence to Miss H.’s, where we held our little band-meeting, Mrs. E. was much affected, but not able to lay hold of the great blessing:  O for more faith.—­The quarterly fast was observed in Haxby for the first time:  I found it good to unite with them.—­During the last week we have been favoured with the company of Mr. Mortimer, returned from the Shetland Islands.  He retains the same Christian simplicity, and I feel it a privilege to entertain such a man under our roof.