ons; but in the course of time we
have become estranged. She is now on the bed of affliction, and wept
while mother and I prayed. She requested me to go again; if I can be
useful to her, O Lord, open the way, and speak by me.

--I went to see a man walk upon the river, which occasioned the
following lines:--

I saw the man, with wondrous skill.
Walk on the yielding stream at will,
Sustained by human art:
Not so did Peter, when to Thee
He stepped upon the rolling sea;
Faith did the power impart.

So while on life's tempestuous wave,
With timid steps I walk; O! save,
Reach out Thy hand to me:
My courage swells, while Thou art near,
Nor foe nor accident I fear,
Though wild the billows be.

But safely on through peril glide,
Supported on the dangerous tide,
By looking unto Thee:
Impossibilities shall yield,
And faith a solid pathway build.
Across the stormy sea.

I have had some family exercises;--scarce worth a thought, if I had
more of the mind of Christ; yet I have been able to tell my care to
God, and at his footstool, I have got rid of my burden. I enjoy the
soul's calm sunshine.--When I consider how time slips away, and how
little I effect for my own improvement, and that of others, I am
ashamed. My life appears so blotted, I can only say, 'God be merciful
to me a sinner;' but praise God, I can rely with greater confidence
than formerly upon his promises. I know I am his child, and my
happiness is in doing the will of my Father.--Mrs. Taft is with us. O
that the disappointment she has met with, (the refusal of the chapel,)
may turn out rather to the furtherance of the Gospel, and more
especially for the benefit of my family.--I understand she spoke in
the school-room with energy and power; and at the prayer-meeting which
followed, my Eliza was restored to the favour of God. Thus the Lord
out of seeming evil has brought good to my child.--The one thing is
daily the object of my desires and efforts. I want more clearly to
exhibit the fruits of righteousness in my ordinary conversation. Being
naturally of a hasty temperament, I need constantly to be baptized
with the meek, and lowly spirit of Jesus. Grant me, O Lord, my heart's
desire. I do feel Thy sanctifying presence, but O how I long for
more.--The Lord is working amongst the children. My Richard, at the
new School vestry, felt the drawings of the Spirit; and William, I
am told, cried out aloud. O that the