he was seized by a dangerous illness, which
sunk him to such weakness, that the congregation thought an assistant
necessary, and appointed Mr. Price. His health then returned
gradually, and he performed his duty, till (1712) he was seized
by a fever of such violence and continuance, that from the feebleness
which it brought upon him, he never perfectly recovered.

This calamitous state made the compassion of his friends necessary,
and drew upon him the attention of Sir Thomas Abney, who received
him into his house; where with a constancy of friendship and
uniformity of conduct not often to be found, he was treated for
thirty-six years with all the kindness that friendship could
prompt, and all the attention that respect could dictate. Sir
Thomas died about eight years afterwards; but he continued with
the lady and her daughters to the end of his life. The lady died
about a year after him.

A coalition like this, a state in which the notions of patronage
And dependence were overpowered by the perception of reciprocal
benefits, deserves a particular memorial; and I will not withhold
from the reader Dr. Gibbons's representation, to which regard is
to be paid as to the narrative of one who writes what he knows,
and what is known likewise to multitudes besides.

"Our next observation shall be made upon that remarkably kind
providence which brought the doctor into Sir Thomas Abney's family,
and continued him there till his death, a period of no less than
thirty-six years. In the midst of his sacred labours for the glory
of God, and good of his generation he is seized with a most violent
and threatening fever, which leaves him oppressed with great
weakness, and puts a stop at least to his public services for four
years. In this distressing season, doubly so to his active and
pious spirit, he is invited to Sir Thomas Abney's family, nor ever
removes from it till he had finished his days. Here he enjoyed the
uninterrupted demonstrations of the truest friendship. Here, without
any care of his own, he had everything which could contribute to
the enjoyment of life, and favour the unwearied pursuits of his
studies. Here he dwelt in a family, which, for piety, order,
harmony, and every virtue, was an house of God. Here he had the
privilege of a country recess, the fragrant bower, the spreading
lawn, the flowery garden, and other advantages to sooth his mind
and aid his restoration to health; to yield him, whenever he chose
them,