r to the
Lord than other men; for they that know Him most, will see most reason to
approach him with reverence and fear.

VI. He was of an innocent life, no busy-body, nor self-seeker: neither
touchy nor critical: what fell from him was very inoffensive, if not very
edifying. So meek, contented, modest, easy, steady, tender, it was a
pleasure to be in his company. He exercised no authority but over evil,
and that everywhere, and in all; but with love, compassion, and
long-suffering. A most merciful man, as ready to forgive, as unapt to
take or give an offence. Thousands can truly say, he was of an excellent
spirit and savour among them, and because thereof, the most excellent
spirits loved him with an unfeigned and unfading love.

VII. He was an incessant labourer: for in his younger time, before his
many, great, and deep sufferings and travels had enfeebled his body for
itinerant services, he laboured much in the word and doctrine, and
discipline, in England, Scotland, and Ireland, turning many to God, and
confirming those that were convinced of the truth, and settling good
order, as to church affairs, among them. And towards the conclusion of
his travelling service, between the years 1671, and 1677, he visited the
churches of Christ in the plantations of America, and in the United
Provinces, and Germany, as his journal relates; to the convincement and
consolation of many. After that time he chiefly resided in and about the
city of London; and, besides his labour in the ministry, which was
frequent and serviceable, he wrote much, both to them that are within,
and those that are without, the communion.

But the care he took of the affairs of the church in general was very
great.

VIII. He was often where the records of the business of the church are
kept, and where the letters from the many meetings of God's people over
all the world use to come: which letters he had read to him, and
communicated them to the meeting, that is weekly {57} held for such
services; and he would be sure to stir them up to answer them, especially
in suffering cases, showing great sympathy and compassion upon all such
occasions; carefully looking into the respective cases, and endeavouring
speedy relief, according to the nature of them. So that the churches, or
any of the suffering members thereof, were sure not to be forgotten, or
delayed in their desires, if he was there.

IX. As he was unwearied, so he was undaunted in his se