From His Last Embarking for America to His Death, September 30, 1770

The vessel was detained a month in the Downs, by contrary winds; one ship was lost, but the passengers escaped in a boat. Whitefield, as usual, ever careful to redeem the time, employed himself in writing many excellent consolatory epistles to his numerous friends; he often preached on board, and sometimes also on shore, both at Deal and Ramsgate. During the violence of the storms, they sung the following hymns, written by the Rev. Charles Wesley.

HYMN I.

Lord of the wide extended main,
Whose power the winds and waves controls;

Whose hand doth earth and heaven sustEiin,
Whose spirit leads believing souls.

For thee we leave our native shore,

(We, whom thy love delights to keep,)
In other worlds, thy works explore,

And see thy wonders in the deep.

‘T is here thy unknown paths we trace,
Which dark to human eyes appear;

While through the mighty waves we pass,
Faith only sees that God is here!

Throughout the deep thy footsteps shine,
We own thy way is in the sea:

O’er aw’d by hiajesty divine,
And lost in thy immensity!

Thy wisdom here we learn to adore,
Thy everlasting truth we prove;

Amazing heights of boundless power,
Unfathomable depths of love!

Infinite God! thy greatness span’d
These heav’ns, and meted out the skies j

Lo! in the hollow of thy hand,
The measur’d waters sink and rise!

Thee to perfection, who can telll
Earth and her sons beneath thee lie.

Lighter than dust within thy scale.
And less than nothing in thine eye.

Yet in thy Son divinely great,
We claim thy providential care;

Boldly we stand before thy seat,
Our advocate hath plac’d us there.

With him we’re going up on high.
Since he is our’s, and we are his;

With him we reign above the sky.
Yet walk upon our subject seas.

We boast of our recover’d powers,
Lords, are we of the lands and floods;

And earth, and heaven, and all is our’s,
And we are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s.

HYMN II.

Glory to Thee, whose powerful word,
Bids the tempestuous winds arise;

Glory to Thee, the sov’reign Lord
Of air, and earth, and seas, and skies!

Let air, and earth, and skies obey,
And seas thy awful will perform:

From them we learn to own thy sway.
And shout to meet the gathering storm.

What tho’ the floods lift up their voice,
Thou hearest, Lord, our louder cry;

They cannot damp thy children’s joys,
Or shake the soul, when God is nigh.

Headlong we cleave the yawning deep,
And back to highest heaven are borne;

Unmov’d tho’ rapid whirlwinds sweep,
And all the watery world upturn.

Roar on, yc waves! our souls defy

Your roaring to (Hsturb our rest.
In vain to impair the calm ye try,

The calm in a believer’s breast.

Rage, while our faith the Savior tries,

Thou sea, the servant of his will:
Rise, while our God permits thee rise;

But fall, when he snail say, “be still!”

It is presumed, the following extract from Whitefield’s MS. Journal, relative to this period, will be read with interest.

“Saturday, September 2. Had a most awful parting season at Tottenham court chapel sacrament, last Sunday morning; the sermon from Gen. xxviii, 12. ‘And he dreamed, and behold, a ladder set upon the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven; and, behold, the angels of God ascended and descended on it.’ Preached from the same text at the Tabernacle, which was more than full, on Wednesday morning at seven o’clock. This day dined with my worthy, fast, and tried friend, Mr. Keen; and having comfortably setded, and left all my outward concerns in his hands, I took an affectionate leave, and in company with some dear friends, this evening reached Gravesend; where others met us. We supped and conversed together in some degree, I trust, like persons who hoped, ere long, to sit down together at the marriage feast of the supper of the Lamb. Hasten, O Lord, that wished for time!

“Sunday, September 3. Preached this morning at the Methodist’s Tabernacle, from John xii, 32. ‘And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.’ The congregation was not very large; but God gave me great freedom of speech, and made it indeed a house of God, and gate of heaven. In the afternoon, I preached in the market-place, from Gen. iii. 13. ‘And the Lord God said unto the woman, what is this that thou hast done? and the woman said, the serpent beguiled me, and I did eat’ — to a much larger, but not more devout auditory. In the out-skirts, as might naturally be expected, some were a little noisy; but a great body were very attentive, and I was enabled to lift up my voice like a trumpet. The remainder of the evening was spent as the night before, with my liOndon christian friends, who, with me, less than the least of all, exceedingly rejoiced at the opportunity of a parting street market-place preaching; where, I trust, some pennyless bankrupt sinners, were made willing to buy gospel wine and milk, without money, and without price. May the great day show, that this hope was not altogether ill grounded!

“Monday, September 4. Had my dear christian friends on board to breakfast with me this morning. Conversation was sweet, but parting litter. What mean you, said the apostle, to weep and break my heart? However, through infinite mercy, I was helped to bear up; and after their departure, the divine presence made up the loss of all, even with new creature comforts. Lord, if thy divine presence go not with, and accompany me all the way, for thine infinite mercy’s sake, suffer me not to go one step further!

But I believe thy promise Lord,
Oh! help my unbelief!

“Tuesday, September 5. The captain not coming down as was expected, we did not weigh anchor till this morning’s ebb.

“The winds being contrary, and the weather hazy, we did not arrive in the Downs till the Friday following. In the interim, I had the opportunity of conversing a little with the pilot, and strange passengers. All attended divine worship very orderly, and thanked me for my offer of lending them books, and giving them what assistance lay in my power, towards making their voyage comfortable. AH seemed thankful, and the pilot parted with tears in his eyes. May the great and never failing pilot, the Almighty Jesus, renew us, and take us all into his holy protection, and then all must necessarily end in our safe arrival in the haven of eternal rest!

“Tuesday, September 12. Preached last Sunday morning to my little flock on board, and was most agreeably surprised to-day, with a kind unexpected visit from the Rev. Dr. Gibbons. His discourse was very friendly and devout.

“Wednesday, September 13. I went on shore, and attended an ordination solemnity, at the dissenting meeting. Several ministers officiated. Several very important questions were asked and answered before, and a solemn charge given after imposition of hands. But the prayer put up in the very act of laying on of hands, by Dr. Gibbons, was so aflfecting, and the looks and behavior of those that joined, so serious and solemn, that I hardly know when I was more struck under any one’s ministration. The ordination being over, at the desire of the ministers and other gentlemen, I wont and dined with them; our conversation was edifying; and being informed, that many were desirous to hear me preach, I willingly complied; and I trust some seed was sown the same evening at Deal; which, by God’s heavenly blessing, will spring up to life eternal. The people of Deal seemed very civil, and some came to me who had not forgotten my preaching to them, and their deceased friends and parents, thirty-two years ago.

“Friday, September W. I had received most pressing invitations to visit Ramsgate, many weeks ago. These were now repeated by many of lliat place, who came to the ordination at Deal; so there was no resisting their importunity. We reached R<misgatc at about two, took some refreshment, and there 1 preached about four, not to a very large, but an attentive and affected auditory. This I did also the morning following; and was most agreeably entertained with the discourse and good memory of one in particular, who had been my fellow passenger, and frequent hearer many years ago, in the Wilmington, Captain Darling, bound to Piscataway, in New England. The people’s behavior here was so nndissembledly generous, frank, genteel, and christian, that I know not where 1 have been more, pleased and delighted. Being quite uneasy, lest by staying, longer I should be unready, if the wind should turn favorable I went early on Sunday morning to Deal, and from thence immediately on board, and preached in the afternoon. This morning, I received a surreptitious copy of my Tabernacle farewell sermon, taken, as the short hand writer professes, verbatim as I spoke it. But surely he is mistaken. The whole is so injudiciously paragraphed, and so wretchedly unconnected, that I owe no thanks to the misguided, though it may be well meant zeal of the writer and publisher, be they who they will. But such conduct is an unavoidable tax upon popularity. And all that appear for Jesus Christ and his blessed gospel, must, like their master, expect to suffer from the false fire of professing friends, as well as the secret malice of avowed enemies. However, if any one sentence is blessed to the conviction of one sinner, or the edification of any individual saint, I care not what becomes of my character, though I would always pray to be preserved from bringing upon myself, or others, needless and unnecessary contempt.

“Monday, September 25. Weighed anchor last Tuesday morning, Aldth a small favorable gale and fine weather. So many ships which had lain in the Downs, moving at the same time, and gently gliding by us, together with the prospect of the adjacent shore, made a most agreeable scene. But it proved only a very transient. one. For by the time we got to Fairlee, the wind backened, clouds gathered, very violent gales succeeded, and for several days we were so tossed, that after coming over against Brighthelmstone, the captain rightly judging, turned back, as did many other ships, and anchored over against New Rumsey and Dungeness. Lord, in thine own time, thou wilt give the winds a commission to carry us forward towards our desired port!”

Reader! what was it, think you, that inspired this venerable evangelist with such a firm confidence in the goodness and mercy of God, towards his people in general, and himself in particular? Nothing but an experimental knowledge of, and a steadfast belief in the most important doctrines of grace! For in a letter to a ininister, written many years ago, he thus expresses himself: — “The doctrines I have preached, come with dou])le evidence upon my mind day by day. I am more convinced that they are the truths of God: they agree with the written word, and the experience of all the saints in all ages. Nothinor more confirms me in the belief of them, than the opposition that is made against them, by natural men. Election, free grace, free justification, without any regard to vrorks foreseen, are such paradoxes, to carnal minds, that they cannot away with them. This is the wisdom of God, which is foolishness with men; and which, the Lord being my helper, I intend to exalt and contend for more and more; not with carnal weapons, that be far from me; but with the sword of the spirit, the word of God. No sword like that.” And he continued to preach, and earnestly contend for those God exalting, creature humbling truths. “Truths which,” as a good man once said,* ‘• lie at the fountain of God’s glory and his people’s comfort, not only to this period, but to the end of his life!”

At length they were enabled to clear the channel; and proceeding on their voyage, arrived safe on November 30, at Charleston, in South Carolina. They had a most perilous and trying passage; yet, on his arrival, Whitefield found himself in a much better state of health, than after any voyage he had made for many years. And his eagerness to promote the glory of God, and the good of precious souls, increased with his bodily strength, so that the same day he landed on the American shore, he preached at Charleston, where his reception was as hearty, or more so than ever. Here he was met by Mr. Wright, who brought him the welcome news that all things were in gi-eat forwardness at Bethesda.

In his memorandum book, is written the following: — “November, 1769. For the last week we were beating about our port, within sight of it, and continued for two days in five fathom hole, just over the bar. A dangerous situation, as the wind blew hard, and our ship, like a young christian, for want of more ballast, would not obey the helm. But through infinite mercy, on November 30, a pilot boat came and took us safe ashore to Charleston, after being on board almost thirteen weeks. Friends received me most cordially. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his mercies. Oh! to begin to be a christian and minister of Jesus!”

Mr. William Mason, author of the Spiritual Treasurj’, and many other valuaMe pieces, which have been made exceedingly useful to many of God’s children.

When he reached Bethesda, he writes: — “January 11, 1770. Eveiy thine exceeds my most sanofuine expectations. I am ahnost tempted to say, it is good for me to be here; but all must give way to gospel ranging — divine employ!

“For this, let men revile my name,
I’ll shun no cross, I’ll fear no shame;
All hail, reproach!”

In another letter, Whiteficld says, “And the increase of this colony is almost uicredible. Two wings are added to the Orphan-house, for the accommodation of students; of which Governor Wright laid the foundation, March 25, 1769.”

The very great esteem which the whole colony entertained for Wliitefielcl, and which at this time, hi particular, they thought it their duty to express, appears from the following papers: —

“CoM3iONs House of Assembly, Monday, January 29, 1770. Mr. Speaker reported, that he, with the house, having Waited on the Rev. Mr. Whitefield, in consequence of his invitation, at the Orphan-house academy, heared him preach a very suitable and pious sermon on the occasion; and with great pleasure observed the promising appearance of improvement, towards the good purposes intended, and the decency and propriety of behavior of the several residents there; and were sensibly affected, when they saw the happy success which has attended Whitefield’s indefatigable zeal for promotmg the welfare of the province in general, and the Orphan-house in particular. Ordered, that this report be printed in the Gazette.

“John Simpson, ClerkP

Extract from the Georgia Gazette.” Savannah, January 31, 1770. Last Sunday, his excellency the governor, council and assembly, having been invited by the Rev. Mr. Whitefield, attended at divine service in the chapel of the Orphan-house academy, where prayers were read by the Rev. JMr. Ellington, and a very suitable sermon was preached by the Rev. Mr, Whitefield, from Zachariah iv. 10, ‘For who has despised the day of small things?’ to the great satisfaction of the auditory; in which he took occasion to mention the many discouragements he met with, well known to many there, in carrying on the institution for upwards of thirty years past, and the present promising prospect of its future and more extensive usefulness. After divine semce, the company were very politely entertauied with a handsome and plentiful dumer ;- and were greatly pleased to see the useflil improvements made in the house, the

200 MKMOIK.S (iK VVIUTEFIELD.

two additional wings for apartments for students, one hundred and fifty feet each in length, and other lesser buildings, in so much forwardness; and the whole executed with taste, and in so masterly a manner; and being sensible of the truly generous and disinterested benefactions derived to the province through his means, they expressed their gratitude in the most respectful terms.”

The following speech was delivered by an orphan, after Whitefield’s sermon preached before the governor, and others, January 28, 1770.

“When I consider where I stand, and before whom I am about to speak, no wonder that, previous to my rising, a trembling seized my limbs; and now, when risen, a throbbing seizes my heart; and, as a consequence of both, shame and confusion cover my face. For wifiat am I, a poor unlettered orphan, unlearned, almost in the very rudiments of my mother tongue, and totally unskilled in the persuasive arts of speaking, that I should be called to speak before such a venerable, august assembly, as is this day convened under Bethesda’s roof? But, when I reflect, that I stand up at your command, reverend sir, to whom, under God, I owe my little all; and when I further reflect on the well known candor of those that compose this venerable, august assembly, my trembling begins to abate, my throbbing ceases, and a gleam of hope breaks in, that the tongue of the stammerer will, in some degree, be able to speak plain. But where shall I begin? and how shall I express the various emotions that, within the space of half an hour, alternately agitated and affected my soul? If the eye, as I have been taught to think, is the looking-glass of the soul; and if the outward gestures, and earnest attention, are indications expressive of the inward emotions and dispositions of the human heart, then a heartfelt complacency and joy hath possessed the souls of many in this assembly, whilst the reverend founder hath been giving from the pulpit such a clear, succinct, and yet withal, affecting account of the rise and progress of his Orphan-house academy, and of the low estate of this now flourishing colony, when the first brick of this edifice was laid. All hail that happy day! which we now commemorate, when about thirty-two years ago, in faith and fervent prayer, the first brick of this edifice was laid. Many destitute orphans were soon taken in, and without any visible fund, in the dearest part of his majesty’s dominions, more than fifty laborers were employed and honorably paid; and a large orphan family, for these many years, has been supported, clothed, and brought up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. O could these walls speak! could every chamber, every corner of this fabric speak! what agonizing supplications, what inwrought energetic prayers would they tell us they had been witness to; and also of the blessed fruits, of which we are now partakers! Behold! a once infant, deserted, and despised colony, not only lifting up its drooping head, and in some degree overtopping, at least, for trade, and increase and extent of commerce, vieing with some of its neighboring provinces. Behold! the once despised institution! the very existence of which, for many years denied, through the indefatigable industry, unparalleled disinterestedness, and unwearied perseverance of its reverend founder, expanding and stretching its wings, not only to receive a larger number of helpless orphans like myself, but to nurse and cherish many of the rising generation, training them up to be ornaments both in church and state. For ever adored be that providence, that power and goodness, which have brought matters to such a desirable and long expected issue! Thanks, thanks be rendered to your excellency, for the countenance you have always given to this beneficent plan, for laying the first brick of yonder wings this time twelve month, and for the favor of your company on this our anniversary. Thanks to you, Mr. President,* who have long been a fellow helper in this important work, and have now the pleasure of seeing the fruit of all your labors. Thanks to the gentlemen of his majesty’s honorable council, and to the members of the general assembly, who so warmly recommended the utility of this institution. Thanks to you, sir, who first opened it by preaching. Thanks

to you who left your native country, and without fee or reward, have for many years labored and watched over us in the Lord. Thanks to all who hac this day honored us with their presence. And, above all, thanks, more than an orphan tongue can utter, or orphan hearts conceive, be under God, rendered unto you, most honored sir, who have been so haypily instrumental, in the hands of a never failing God, in spreading his everlasting gospel.”

TO MR. ROBERT KEEN.

I^ebruary 10, 1770, Whitefield writes:” Through infinite mercy, this leaves me enjoying a greater share of bodily health than I have known for many years. I am now enabled to preach almost every day, and my poor feeble labors seem not to be in vain in the Lord. Blessed be God, all things are in great forwardness at BethesJa. I have conversed with the governor in the most explicit manner, more than once, concerning an act of assembly, for the establishment of the intend-

* The Hon. Mr. Habersham, president of his majesty’s council and Mr. Whitefield’s executor, in Georgia.

^2 MKMOIKS OF VVlllTEKlELD. ed Orphan-house college.* He most readily consents. I have shown hhn a draught, which he much approves of, and all will be finished at my return from the northward: in the mean while, the building will be carried on. As two ministers from New Jersey and Rhode Island, have been soliciting benefactions for their respective colleges, no application of that nature can be made here; but the Lord will provide! My eyes wait upon Him, from whom all temporal and spiritual salvations come. Since my being in Charleston, I. have shown the draught to some persons of great eminence and influence. They highly approve of it, and willingly consent to be some of the wardens. Nearly twenty are to be of Georgia, and about six of this place; one of Philadelphia, one of New York, one of Boston, three of Edinburgh, two of Glasgow, and six of London, Those of Georgia and South Carolina, are to be qualified; the others to be only honorary corresponding wardens. I have therefore taken the freedom of nominating ******; and as my name is to be annihilated, they may accept the trust without expecting much trouble, or suffering contempt lor being connected with me. This, I think, is the chief of the plan: more particulars that may occur, together with the draught of the charter, you may expect hereafter.”

TO THE SAME.

“Charleston, February 12, 1770. “No letters by the packet, or another ship, that hath brought in above five hundred from London. As I hear Captain Rainer is bqund to Savannah, I hope at my return to Bethesda, to find a letter there. Your last, dated November 2, was immediately answered. Mr. B — — s will accept my most grateful acknowledgments for his kind present of maps and charts. In a few months, I hope, all will be completed. But what may these few months produce? Lord Jesus, prepare us for whatsoever thou hast prepared for us, and give peace in our time, for thine infinite mercy’s sake! You must expect another draught soon. God be praised for that saying, ‘it is more blessed to give tVian to receive.’ You would be pleased to see with what attention people hear the word preached. I have been in Charleston near a fortnight — am to preach at a neighboring country parish church next Sunday, and hope to see Georgia the week following. Perhaps I may sail from thence

* A paper of College Rules vras found written with his own hand, and in which he orders the following; authors in ^livinity to be read: Henry, Doddridge, Guyle, Burkitt, Willison, Professor Pranck, Boston, Jenks, Hervey, Hall, Edwards, Trapp, Pool, Warner, Lcihton, Pearson, Owen, Bunyan, and the Homilies to be read publicly by rotation. He intended to publish a new edition of the Homilies.

MKMOinS OF WIIlTnFIELD. 203

to the nortliward, and pcrliaps embark from thence. Lord Jesus, direct my goincrs in thy way! 1 am blessed with bodily health, and am enabled to go on my way rejoicing. Grace! grace! Join in shouting those blessed words. I wrote by one Captain Watt, who was to sail from Georgia this week. Ini that you will find something concerning my late visit to, and pubhe entertainment at liethcsda. You see how often I pester you with letters. I can only add, that you may tell all, I am happier than words can express; which I take, in a great measure, to be owing to the prayers of my dear English friends, which are daily put up for me, and I hope daily returned by, an unworthy worm.”

TO ANOTHER FRIEND.

“Charleston, February 27, 1770.” I owe you an answer to your kind letter. Blessed be God, I can send you good news from a far country! All things at Bethesda go on quite well. My bodily health is on the advance; and the word, I trust, runs and is glorified. At present my intended plan about returning, continues the same; but all depends on news from home. Strange! that none could write a line or two by so many ships. Only one letter have I received from Mr. Keen, since my arrival. Next week, God willing, I return to Georgia; and soon after, I purpose to go to the northward. I Imow who will follow me with their prayers — they will avail much. The Lord Jesus be with all your spirits! I suppose you heard from Bethesda, by Captain Anderson. Mr. Wright is the main spring, with regard to the buildings; and all the other wheels move orderly and well. Praise the Lord, O my soul! O this pilgrim way of life! To me it is life indeed. No nestling, no nestling, my dear Mr. Brown, on this side eternity. This is not our rest. Ere long we shall sing:

All our sorrows left below,
And earth exchang’d for heaven.

“Leaving you to add Hallelujah; and sending most hearty greetings to your whole self.”

“Savannah, March 11, 1770.” Blessed be God, the good wine seemed to bo kept to the last, at Charleston. Last Thursday, I returned, and found all well at Bethesda. I am come to town to preach this morning, though somewhat fatigued, with being on the water three nights. Upon the whole, however, I am better in health than I have been for many years. Praise the Lord, O my soul! I have been sadly disappointed in receiving no letters by the Charleston packet. All knew that I was to be in those parts, only till the ensuing lady-day: then I purpose to set off for the northward. I drew at Charleston for. Perhaps may draw

again soon. Expect more particulars in a few days. This is waited for. God bless you all! Dearly beloved in the Lord, pray for us. Time is scarce allowed me to subscribe myself, my very dear friend.” Less than the least of all,

“G. W.”

“Bethesda, April 6, 1770. “I am waiting here for a brig that is to carry me northward, and for a letter and news from England. Your last was dated November 2. Several months have intervened. I now almost despair of hearing from you again, till my arrival at Boston. But I hope that you, and all, remember us oftener than you write. You are daily remembered at a throne of grace. How glad would many be to see our Goshen, our Bethel, our Bethesda! Never did I enjoy such domestic peace, comfort, and joy, during my whole pilgrimage. It is unspeakable, it is full of glory. Peace, peace unutterable attends our paths: and a pleasing prospect of increasing, useful prosperity is continually rising to our vicv.^ I have lately taken six poor children, and God willing, purpose to add greatly to their number. Dear Mr.

D n and his wife are to sail next month, in the Brittania,

Captain Dean, bound for Portsmouth. We part with gi’eat respect. Fain would I retain such an old, fried, disinterested friend, in the service of the sanctuary, and near my person. But what scheme to pursue, I know not, being uncertain as to the path which I shall be called to take. A few months will determine, perhaps a few weeks. In the mean while, I can only commend you all to the blessed Jesus, and the word of his grace; and entreat the continuance of your prayers. Again, hallelujah! praise the Lord! The books and letters, both by Ball and Sunbury, are come safe. You have done quite right. Our Lord must choose his own means to brmg about his own purpose. Mr. Smith, the clerk, was much rejoiced by receiving

a letter. Poor Mr. Jacob W 1, an honest, industrious

creature, was as much dejected by receiving none. If Mr.

G s had added a line or two to his present, it would have

been doubly acceptable. Next week. God willing, we sail for Philadelphia. I shall leave letters behind me to come by

Mr. D n. All is well — all more than well here? Never,

never did I enjoy such an era of domestic peace and happiness. I have taken about ten orphans. Prizes! Prizes! Hallelujah! Join, my very dear friends, join in praising Him whose name endureth for ever. If possible, I shall waite a line to the Welch brethren. They have sustained a loss indeed, in the death of Mr. Howell Davies. God sanctify it! surely my time will come by and by. But I must away to Savannah. Real good, I trust, is done there.”

“Bethesda, April 20, 1770.

“To my very great joy, a few days ago, I received your very kind letters, with all the papers. We enjoy a little heaven on earth here. With regret I gro northward, as far as Philadelphia at least, next Monday. Though I am persuaded, as the house is now altered, I should be cooler here, during the sunmier’s heat than at any other place I know of, where I used to go. I should be glad to treat you with some of the produce of our colony, which is much earlier than yours. The audits, <kc., sent with this, be pleased to communicate to all my real friends. You have certainly determined quite right in a late affair. Every tiling concurs to show me, that Bethesda’s affairs must go on as yet in their old channel. A few months may open strange scenes. O for a spirit of love and moderation on all sides, and on both sides the water! I wish some books might be procured for our infant library; but more of this in our next. Letters may now be sent by way of Boston, New York, and Philadelphia. I should be glad to hear often, if it be but a line. In all probability, I shall not return hither till November. Was ever any man blessed with such a set of skillful, peaceful, laborious helpers! O Bethesda, my Bethd. my Peniel! jNIy happiness is inconceivable. A few hundreds besides what is already devoted, v.’ould finish all. I do not in the least doubt. I have had nine or ten prizes lately. You kno-w what I mean — nine or ten orphans have lately been taken in. Hallelujah! hallelujah! let chapel. Tabernacle, heaven, and earth rebound with hallelujah! I can no more. My heart is too big to speak or add more.”

Bethesda, April 21, 1770.

‘■’ This comes to infomi you, that the Father of mercies has not forgotten to be gracious to the chief of sinners, and less than the least of all saints. On the contrary he daily loads us with his benefits. Bethesda is a place, that the Lord doth and will

bless. Dear Mr. D n and his vnie will inform you of

particulars. Among other things, they will tell you of our new chapel. I have sent for sundries for its use and completion. O help me to praise Him, whose loving kindness is better than life! I hope 3’our dausfhter sfrows in grace, and will become like imto one of the polished corners of the temple. That root and branch may increase, with all the increase of God, most cordially prays, (fcc.”

From these and the following extracts, may be seen the

206 MEMOIRS OF V/HITEFIELD.

astonishing goodness of God to this distinguished minister of Christ. What blessings attend his ministry! What success crowned all his undertalcings! How was his soul supported under erery difficulty, amid hosts of foes, against all opposition! Still was he enabled to triumj)h. and come off more than conqueror through Him that loved him.

“Bethesda, April 21, 1770.

“No such good news yet. Less than the least of all is not drowned to this very day. Perhaps he may live to see his London friends in England, or at Bethesda. How would many rejoice to be in such a peaceable, commodious, and comfortable habitation! 1 cannot tell you half Blessed be God, I was never better at this season of the year in bodily health — never more comfortable in my soul. Grace! grace! hallelujah! praise the Lord.

“Again — “Well! so that we may die daily to ourselves and the world, all is well, and shall be well. This I am persuaded is your happy case; and. in some degree, I trust, it is mine.”

“Savannah, April 24, 1770.

“Five in the morning; I am just going into the boat, in order to embark for Philadelphia. I hope the good wine was

left to the last on Sunday. Mr. D n and his wife, are to sail

in a fortnight. He is an honest creature, and an excellent accountant. I have written strongly on his behalf. He will

bring a large packet, and is to have pounds of you, which

I have given him as a present. This will prove a blessed year for me at the day of judgment. Hallelujah! come Lord, come! Mr. Robert W>ight has herewith sent you a power of attorney, begging you would settle his affairs in Essex. He is worthy, for whom you should do this. A quiet, ingenious, good creature; and his wife an excellent mistress of the family. Such a set of helpers I never m.et with. They will go on with the buildings, while I take my gospel range to the northward. It is for thee, O Jesus, even for thee, thou never failing Bethesda’s God!”

“Philadelphia, May 9, 1770.

“This leaves me a two days’ inhabitant of Philadelphia. I embarked at Savannah in the Georgia packet, on the twenty-fourth ultimo, and arrived here the sixth instant. The evening folio win 2”, I was enabled to preach to a large auditory, and was to repeat the delightful task this evening. Pulpits, hearts, and affections, seem to be as open and enlarged towards me as ever. Praise the Lord, O my soul! As yet I have my old plem in view, to travel in these northern parts all summer.

and return late in the fall to Georgia. Through infinite mercy, I still contiiiuo in good health, and more and more in love evry day with a pilgrim life. God bless you and all my dear friends and hearers in the great metropolis. I know they pray for me. They are never forgotten day or night.”

“Philadelphia, May 24, 1770.

“I have now been here near three weeks; and in about a week more, I purpose to set off for New York, in my way to Boston. A wide and effectual door, I trust, has been opened in this city. People of all ranks flock as much as ever. Impressions are made on many, and I trust they will abide. To all the episcopal churches, as well as most of the other places of worship, I have free access. Notwithstanding I preach twice on the Lord’s day, and three or four times a week besides, yet I am rather better than I have been for many years. This is the Lord’s doing. To the long suifering, never failing Lord, be all the glory.”

“Philadelphia, June 14, 1770.

“This leaves me just returned from a one hundred and fifty miles’ circuit, in which, blessed be God, I have been enabled to preach every day. So many new as well as old doors are open, and so many invitations sent from various quarters, that I Imow not which way to turn myself. However, at present, I am bound to New York. Help me to praise him whose mercy endureth for ever. As yet I am enabled to ride and travel cheerfully; the heat not being greater than m England. Expect to hear further, as we go along. The ship I find is going.”

“New York, June 30.

“I have been here just a week. Have been enabled to preach four times; and am to repeat the delightful task this evening. Congregations, are larger than ever. You will see, by the inclosed packet, what numerous invitations from every quarter, I am daily receiving. Blessed be God, I have been strengthened to itinerate and preach daily, for some time. Next week I purpose to go to Albany; from thence, perhaps, to the Oneida Indians; there is to be a very large Indian congress; Mr. Kirkland accompanies me. He is a truly christian minister, and missionary. Every thing possible should be done to strengthen his hands and his heart. I shall write, God willing at my return. Perhaps I may not see Georgia till Christmas. As yet, I keep to my intended plan, in respect to my returning. Lord Jesus direct my goings in thy way! The heat begins now to be a little intense; but, through mercy, I am enabled to bear up bravely. What a God do we serve!”

Infidel! read and tremble! This awful God who thus preserves the men who fear him. though earth and hell unite against them; this God shall surely come in flaming fire, to judge and punish all who now despise his power, reject his word, and persecute his saints!

But, 0 ye fearful saints, fresh courage take; for this same God is your’s, your Father and your Friend. For you He comes in smiling majesty, with his angelic hosts, to raise your ransomed souls from earth to heaven!

“New York, July 29, 1770.

“Since my last, and during this month, I have been above a five hundred miles’ circuit; and have been enabled to preach and travel through the heat every day. The congregations have been very large, attentive, and afiected, particularly at Albany, Schenectady, Great Barrington, Norfolk, Salisbury, Sharon, Smithfield, Poughkeepsie, Fishkill, New Rumbart, New Windsor, and Peck’s Hill. Last night I returned hither, and hope to set out for Boston in two or three days. O what a new scene of usefuiness is opening in various parts of this world! All fresh work, where I have been. The divine influence has been as at first. Invitations crowd upon me both from ministers and people, from many, many quarters. A very peculiar providence led me lately to a place where a horse stealer was executed. Thousands attended. The poor criminal had sent me several letters, hearing I was in the country. The sheriff” allowed him to come and hear a sermon under an adjacent tree. Solemn, solemn! After being by himself about an hour, I walked half a mile with him to the gallows. His heart had been softened before my first visit. He seemed full of solid, divine consolation. An instructive walk! I went up with him into the cart. He gave a short exhortation. I then stood upon the coffin — added, I trust, a word in season — prayed, gave the blessing, and took my leave. Effectual good, I hope, was done to the hearers and spectators. Grace! grace! But I must not enlarge.”

Boston, September 17.

He sends the following letter to Mr. Wright, at Bethesda: —” Fain would I come by Captain Souder, from Philadelphia; but people are so importunate for my stay in these parts, that I fear it will be impracticable. My God will supply all my wants according to the riches of his grace in Christ Jesus. Two or three evenings ago, I was taken in the night with a violent flux, attended with retching and shivering: so that I was obliged to return from Newbury, but through infinite mercy, I am restored, and to-morrow morning hope to begin again.

Never was the word received with greater eagerness than now. All opposition seems, as it were, for a while to cease. I find God’s time is the best. The season is critical as to outward circumstances; but when forts are given up, the Lord Jesus can appoint salvation for walls and for bulwarks; he has promised to be a wall of fire round about his people. This comforts me concerning Bethesda, though we should have a Spanish war. You will be pleased to hear, I never was carried through the summer’s heat so well.”

And lastly, to his dear friend, Mr. Keen, in London. “Portsmouth, New Hampshire, September 23, 1770. By this time I thought to be moving southward. But never was greater importunity used to detain me longer in these northern parts. Poor New England is much to be be pitied; Boston people most of all. How grossly misrepresented! What a mercy that our christian charter cannot be dissolved! Blessed be God for an unchangeable Jesus! You will see, by the many invitations, what a door is opened for preaching the everlasting gospel. I was so ill on Friday, that I could not preach, though thousands were waiting to hear. Well, the day of release will shortly come, but it does not seem yet; for by riding sixty miles I am better, and hope to preach here to-morrow. I trust my blessed Master will accept these poor efforts to serve him. O for a warm heart! O to stand fast in the faith, to acquit ourselves like men, and be strong! May this be the happy experience of you and your’s! I suppose your letters are gone for me in the Anderson to Georgia. If spared so long, I expect to see it about Christmas. Still pray and praise. I am so poorly, and so engaged when able to preach, that this must apologize for not writing to more friends; it is quite impracticable. Hoping to see all dear friends about the time proposed, and earnestly desiring a continual interest in all your prayers, (fee.”*

Thus end the epistles of this truly great man; of whom the pious Mr. Hervey once wrote to a friend thus:” I have seen lately that most excellent minister of the ever blessed Jesus, Mr. Whitefield. I dined, supped, and spent the evening with him at Northampton, in company with Dr. Doddridge, and two pious, ingenious clergymen of the Church of England, both of them known to the learned world by their valuable writings. And surely, I never spent a more dehghtful evening, or saw one that seemed to make nearer approaches to the felicity of heaven. A gentleman of great worth and rank in the town, invited us to his house, and gave us an elegant treat; how mean was his provision, how coarse his delicacies,

* Whitefield died the 30th.

compared wilh the fruit of my friend’s lips; they dropped as the honey-comb, and were as a well of life. Surely people do not know that amiable and exemplary man, or else, I cannot but think, instead of depreciating, they would applaud and love him. For my part, I never beheld so fair a copy of our Lord — such a livina: image of the Savior — such exalted delight in God — such enlarged benevolence to man — such a steady faith in divine promises — and such a fervent zeal for the divine glory — and all this without the least moroseness of humor, or extravagancies of behavior, sweetened with the most engaging cheerfulness of temper, and regulated by all the sobriety of reason, and wisdom of scripture; insomuch, that I caimot forbear applying the wise man’s encomium of an illustrious woman, to this eminent minister of the everlasting gospel; many sons have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.”

From the 17th to the 20th of September, Whitefield preached every day in Boston; on the 20th of September, at Newton; and proceeded from Boston, September the 21st, on an excursion to the eastward, although at that time indisposed. At Portsmouth, in New Hampshire, he preached daily from the 23d to the 29th of September; also once at Kittery, and once at York; and, on Saturday morning, September 29, he set out for Boston; but before he came to Newburyport, where he had engaged to preach next morning, he was importuned to preach by the way, at Exeter. At the last he preached in the open air, to accommodate the multitudes that came to hear him, no house being able to contain them. He continued his discourse nearly two hours, by which he was greatly fatigued; notwithstanding which, in the afternoon, he set otf for Newburyport, where he arrived that evening: and soon after retired to rest, being Saturday night, fully intent on preaching the next day. His rest was much broken, and he awoke many limes in the night, and complained very much of an oppression at his lungs, breathing with much difficulty. And at length, about six o’clock on the Lord’s day morning, he departed this life, in a fit of the asthma.

Thus died this faithful laborer in the gospel vineyard, who finished his course with joy, and is now singing the praises of that Jesus whom he so many years delighted to preach Reader! may you and I be prepared to follow him!

Mr. Richard Smith, who attended Whitefield from England to America the kvi time, and was his constant companion in all his journeyings while there, till the time of his decease, has given the following particular account of his death and interment:

MEMOIRS OF V.’ITITrriKr.D. 211

“On Saturday, September 29, 1771), Mr. Whitefield rode from Portsmouth to Exeter, (fifteen iriilrs,) in the moniiiifr, and preached there to a very creat multitude, in the fields. It is remarkable, that lefore he went out to preach that day, (which proved to l:»e his last sermon,) Mr. Clarkson, senior, observing liirn more uneasy than usual, said to iiini, ‘Sir, you are more fit to go to bed than to preach.’ To which Mr. AVhitefield answered, ‘true sir;’ but turning aside, he clasped his hands together, and looking up, said, ‘Lord Jesus, I am weary in thy work, but not of thy work. If I have not yet finished my course, let me go and speak for thee once more in the fields, seal thy truth, and come home and die.’ His last sermon was from 2 Cor. xiii. 5. ‘Examine yourselves, wlietlier ye be in the faith; prove your own selves: know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates V He dined at Captain Gihnan’s. After dinner, AMiitefield and Mr. Pareons rode to NeAvburyport. I did not get there till two or three hours after them. I found them at supper. I asked Whitefield, how lie felt himself after his journey. He said, ‘he was tired, therefore he supped early, and would go to bed.’ He eat a very little supper, talked I’lit little, asked Mr. Parsons to discharge the table, perform family duty; and then retired up stairs. He said, ’ that he would sit and read till I came to him,’ which I did as soon as possible; and fomid him reading in the Bible, with Dr. Watts’ Psalms lying open before him. He asked me for some water gruel, and took about half his usual quantit’’; and kneeling down by the bedside, closed the evening with prayer. After a little conversation, he went to rest, and slept till two in the morning, when he awoke me, and tisked for a little cider, of which he drank about a wine glass full. I asked him how he felt, for he seemed to pant for breath. He told me, ’ his asthma was coming on him again: he must have two or three days’ rest. Two or tliiee days’ riding, without preaching, would set him up again.’ Soon afterwards, he asked me to put the window up a little higher, (though it was half up all night.) ’ for,’ said he, ‘I cannot breathe; but I hope I shall be better by and by; a good pulpit sweat to-day, may give me reUef: I shall be better after preaching.’ I said to him, I wished he would not preach so often. He replied, ‘I had rather wear out than rust out.’ I then told him, I was afraid he took cold in preaching yesterday. He said, ’ he believed he had;’ and then sat up in the bed, and prayed that God would be pleased to bless his preachino- where he had been, and also bless his preaching that day. that more souls might be brought to Christ; and prayed for direction, whether he should winter at Boston, or hasten to the southward — prayed for a blessing on his Bethesda college, and his dear family there; for the Tabernacle and chapel congi-oyations, and all connections on the other side of the water; and then laid himself down to sleep again. This was nigh three o’clook. At a quarter past four he waked, and said, ’ my asthma, my asthma is coming on; I wish I had not given out word to preach at Haverhill, on Monday; I don’t think I shall be able; but I shall see what to-day will bring forth. If I am no better to-morrow, I will take two or three days’ ride!’ He then desired me to warm him a little gruel; and, in breaking the fire wood, I waked Mr. Parsons, who, thinking I knocked for him, rose and came in. He went to Whitefield’s bed-side, and asked him how he felt himself. He answered, ‘I am almost suffocated. I can scarce breathe, my asthma quite chokes me.’ I wa then not a little surprised, to hear how quick, and with what difficulty he drew his

breath. He got out of bed, and went to the open window for air. This was exactly at five o’clock. I went to him. and for about the space of five minutes saw no danger, only that he had a great difficulty in breathing, as I had often seen before. Soon afterwards he turned himself to me, and said. ’ / am dying I said, ‘I hope not, sir.’ He ran to the other window, panting for breath, but could get no relief. It was agreed that I should go for Dr. Sawyer; and on my coming back, I saw death on his face; and he again said, ’ / mn dying His eyes were fixed, his under lip drawing inward every time he drew breath; he went towards the window, and we offered him some warm wine, with lavender drops, which he refused. I persuaded him to sit down in the chair, and have his cloak on; he consented by a sign, but could not speak. I then offered him the glass of warm wine; he took half of it, but it seemed as if it would have stopped his breath entirely. In a little time he brought up a considerable quantity of phlegm and wind. I then began to have some small hopes. Mr. Parsons said, he thought Whitefield breathed more freely than he did, and would recover. I said, ‘no sir, he is certainly dying.’ I was continually employed in taking the phlegm out of his mouth with a handkerchief, and bathing his temples with drops, rubbing his wrists, (fee, to give him relief, if possible, but all in vain; his hands and feet were as cold as clay. When the doctor came in, and saw him in the chair leaning upon my breast, he felt his pulse, and said, ’ he is a dead man.’ Mr. Parsons said, ‘I do not believe it; you must do something, doctor!’ He said, ‘I cannot; he is now near his last breath.’ And indeed, so it was; for he fetched but one grasp, and stretched out his feet, and breathed no more. This was exactly at six o’clock. We continued nibbing his legs, hands, and feet with warm clotlis, and bathed him with spirits for some time, but all in vain. I then put him into a warm bed, the doctor standing by, and often raised him upright, continued rubbing him and putting spirits to his nose for an hour, till all hopes were gone. The people came in crowds to see him; I begged the doctor to shut the door.*

“The Rev. Mr. Parsons, at whose house my dear master died, sent for Captain Fetcomb, and Mr. Boadman. and other.”? of his elders and deacons, and they took the whole of the burial upon themselves; prepared the vault, and sent and invited the bearers. Many ministers, of all persuasions, came to the house of the Rev. Mr. Parsons, where several of them gave a very particular account of their first awakenings under his ministiy, several years ago, and also of many in their congregations, that to their knowledge, under God. owed their conversion wholly to his coming among them, often repeating the blessed seasons they had enjoyed under his preaching: and all said, that his last visit was attended with more power than any other; and that all opposition fell before him. Then one and another of them would pity and pray for his dear Tabernacle and chapel congregations, and it was truly affecting to hear them bemoan the calainity of America and England. Thus they continued for two hours conversing about his great usefulness, and praying that God would scatter his gifts and drop his mantle among them. When the corpse was placed at the foot of the pulpit, close to the vault, the Rev. Daniel Rogers made a very affecting prayer, and openly confessed, that under God, he owed his conversion to the labors of that dear man of God, whose precious remains now lay before them. Then he cried out, O my father, my father! then stopped and wept, as though his heart would break, and the people weeping all through the place. Then he recovered, and finished his prayer, and sat down and wept. Then one of the deacons gave out that hymn

‘Why do we mcuni departing friends V &c.

In the last visit but one which Whitefiefd paid to America, he spent a day or two at Princeton, under the roof of the Rev. Dr. Finley, then pre.sident of the college at that place. At dinner, the doctor sjrid, “Mr. Whitefield, I hope it will be very long before you will be called home, but when that event shall arrive, I should be glad to hear the noble testimony you will bear for God.” “You would be disappointed, doctor,” said Whitefield, “I shall die silent. It has pleased God to enable me to bear so many testimonies for him during my life, that he will require none from me when I die. No, no, it is your dumb christians, that have walked in fear and darkness, and thereby been unable to bear a testimony for God during their lives, that he compels to speak out for him on their death beds.” This anecdote wa.s communicated to the writer of it, by a gentleman now living, who was then a student at the college, and a boarder in Dr. Finley ’s family. The manner of Whitefield’s death verified his prediction.

some of the people weepinof, some singiri?^. and so on alternately. The Rev. Mr. Jewel ])Voache(l a funeral discourse, and made an affectionate address to his brethren, to lay to heart the death of that useful man of God; begging that he and they might be upon their watch-tower, and endeavor to follow his blessed example. The corpse was then put into the vault, and all concluded with a short prayer, and dismission of the people, who went weeping through the streets to their respective places of abode.”

The melancholy news of Whitefield’s decease, arrived in London on Monday, November 5, 1770, by the Boston Gazette, and also by several letters from different correspondents at Boston, to his worthy friend, Mr R. Keen; who received likewise, by the same post, two letters written with his own hand, when in good health, one seven and the other five days before his death. Mr. Keen caused the mournful tidings to be published the same night at the Tal)ernacle, and the following evening at Tottenham court chapel. His next step was to select some proper person to deliver a funeral discourse, when it occurred to his mind, that he had many times said to Whitefield, “If you should die abroad, who shall we get to preach your funeral sermon 1 Must it be your old friend, the Rev. .Tohn Wesley 7” And his answer constantly was, “He is the man.” Mr. Keen therefore waited on Mr. Wesley, on the Saturday following, and he promised to preach it on the Lord’s day, November 18, which he did, to an extraordinarily crowded and mournful auditory; many hundreds being obliged to go away, who could not possibly get withm the doors.

In both the chapel and Tabernacle, the pulpits were hung with black cloth, and the galleries with fine black baize. Escutcheons were aflixed to the fronts of the pulpits; and on each of the adjoining houses, hatchments were put up: the motto of which was — “Mea vita — sahis et gloria ChrisHis.” At the expiration of six months, the mourning in each place of worship, and the escutcheons in the vestries, were taken down. The hatchments remained twelve months, when one was taken down, and placed in the Tabernacle, and the other over a neat marble monument, erected by Whitefield for his wife in Tottenham court chapel, with a space left for an inscription respecting himself after his decease, as he wished to be interred in the same vault had he died in England. The Rev. Titus Knight,*

The Rev. Titus Knight, was a native of Halifax, a town in which he exercised his ministry, and in which, indeed he may be said to have spent his whole life. He was born December 17, 1719. During his childhood, he had a particular veneration for sacred things, took a delight in attending the church, and used frequently to weep. At the same early period he learned of Halifax, in Yorkshire, accordingly wrote the following epitaph:

In Memory of
REV. GEORGE WHITEFIELD, A. M.

Chaplain to the Right Honorable the. Countess of Uunlingdony

Whose soul, made meet for glory,

Was taken to Immanual’s bosom.

On the 30th of Sept. 1770;

And now lies in the silent grave, at Newburyport, near Boston, in

New England; There deposited in hope of a joyful resurrection to eternal life an**

glory.

He was a man eioinent in piety,

Of a humane, benevolent, and charitable disposition.

His zeal in the cause of God was singular;

His labors indeiutigable;

And his success in preaching the Gospel remarkable and

astonishing.

He departed this life.

In the fifty-sixth year of his age.

And like his Master,was by some despised;

Like Him, by many others loved and prized:
But their’s shall be the everlasting crown,

Not whom the world, but Jesus Christ will own.

something of the vanity and unsatisfying nature of all worldly pleasure, long before he knew where to seek for solid and substantial happiness. Many instances of this he used to relate; of which the following is a specimen. The annual fair at Halifax, which is kept on midsummer day, was a season to which he looked forward with the most eager expectation of pleasure and satisfaction. But when this day came, he invariably found the most painful disappointment; in a few hours he grew weary of diversion, wandered about quite imhappy, and never could this extraordinary day afford him any satisfaction, unless when he could retire from the noise and hurry of it, to enjoy the common recreation of bathing.

It may not be improper here to introduce some accoimt of an interesting: part of his life, which he has given in a work, entitled, AmATitas and Philetus, or Christian Conversation, published in the year 1770. The reader, therefore, will not be displeased, if the memorialists retire a little, while he who is the subject of this sketch is introduced to speak (though dead) of the things which it pleased God to do for his soul.

“My dear parents were of the establishment; and although filial duty, as well as christian charit)’, requires me to hope the best in behalf of them, yet I seldom or ever saw or heard any thing of religion but at church on the Sabbath day. They were, I believe, strictly honest in their dealings with men, supported a fair character, and appeared as religious as their neighbors, nor did they suspect, as church folks, that they could miss of salvation. I was taught to conceive of dissenters, as base hypocrites, a people that resembled the scribes and pharisees, against whom our Lord so vehemently inveighed, and denounced so many woes; that attempted to hide their wickedness by a deceitful pretext of superior sanctity. In consequence of these and the like things spoken of dissenters, and confirmed by instances I was then incapable of inquiring into, or judging of, I contracted very luifavorable ideas of every sect of Protestant dissenters; and, I think, could vie with any in bigotry and zeal, thinking as highly of the church, as it was possible for any to think of

Whitefield was not quite fifty-six years of age at the time of his decease; thirty-four years of which he spent in the work

the ineeting. But I can never sufficiently admire or adore the free, rich, and distinguishing grace of God to me; for although there was nothing of religion in our family, not even so much as the form; and the way of life I was engaged in, from seven years old, not only imfavorable to, but quite destructive of all good morals, yet it pleased the Lord to preserve me from the filthy conversation of my necessary- companions, and irom learning and using the diabolical language, I mean of cursing and swearing, which wa»s daily intermixed with the most familiar conversations. About the age of eleven, 1 began to be very thoughtful concerning a future state. The cogitations of the day afforded much matter for imagination in my sleeping hours, so that I often alarmed the family with the most lamentable shrieks and cries, occasioned by terrifying dreams of being shut out from God, and thrust into endless torments. These thoughts and dreams, produced an uncommon seriousness in my whole deportment. I diligently read the Bible, gladly catching every opportunity of attending public prayers at the church in the week days, prayed often and fervently in secret, and in secret it was, for prayer not being used in the family, I feared to be found in the practice of it. These impressions, and the influences thereof abode with me for the space of six years, during all which time I sought and expected the favor of God, and the acceptation of my person, solely on the accoimt of my own righteousness. Nor is this at all to be wondered at, seeing all the sons of Adam naturally seek justification and life, by virtue of that law and covenant which he violated and broke in paradise. Nor was this error in any wise corrected by any of the public sermons I then heard, all of which were more legal than “evangelical, and the preachers rather sent the congregation for life to Moses than to Christ. About the age of seventeen, I began to learn psalmody, and for the space of more than ten years, I became extravagantly fond of all kinds of music; so that my affections were entirely captivated thereby, and in a great measure alienated from God; yet all that time the good spirit of God never left off striving with me, (if I may be allowed that expression) so that at certain seasons I was greatly distressed, and wished, ’ it were with me as in months past.’ Sometimes (to use the hyperbolical phrase of the Psalmist) ‘I made my bed to swim, and watered my couch with tears,’ purposed and resolved to resume my former course of life, and relinquish the idol of my soul. About this time it pleased that God, whose eyes are ever upon the objects of his everlasting love, to favor me with an opportunity of hearing the gospel; and the spirit of God so opened my heart to attend to the things that were spoken, and shed such light on my understanding, that when I returned home, and began to read my Bible, it seemed to be quite another book, in respect to its doctrines, and the method of salvation published in it, from what I had till that time conceived it to be. From that memorable day the Lord was pleased to break my chain, and loose the bonds of my captivity, so that I could say with holy David, ‘My soul is escaped as a bird out of” the snare of the fowler; the snare is broken, and I am escaped.’ My heart was now exceedingly rejoiced, and I again renewed my former resolutions of engaging my heart with God, and devoting my life to his service. And my gracious Redeemer was pleased to say ‘Amen’ to my purposes and prayers”, and bade me, with an efficacious word, take hold on hi”s strength, which his good spirit enabling me to do, I was filled with joy and peace in believing. I no longer felt that narrowness of spirit, which I was under the power of before, nor thought

salvation confined to name or party. I found that in Christ Jesus, it availed nothing what a man had been before his conversion, whether Greek or Jew, nor what modes of worship he afterwards preferred, seeing Christ is all and in all to them that believe in him. Since that happy period, although my backslidings and departures from God have been more than I can enumerate, and what 1 blush to mention, yet my dear Redeemer, glory be to his name! having bought me at so dear a rate, and according to the greatness of that love, wherewith he loved me, would not, could not (for his tender heart forbade it,) forsake or cast me off.”

1M

of the ministry. And surely, if life is to be measured by the greatest diligence and enjoyment; as being ever intent upon

From the above account it may be gathered, that about the year 1746 or 1747, he was first brought to a true knowledge of God, and of himself; soon after which it pleased the Lord to introduce him to public notice. As that part of his life, which preceded the above period, is rather involved in obscurity, we may conclude there could be nothing in it very interesting. He was always diligent in his business, and his morality was above the common standard; notwithstanding, as he afterwards acknowledged, he was living “without God and without Christ in the wurld.” Deeply convinced of the inestimable value of his own soul, he immediately became desirous of being an instrument in the hand of God of saving the souls of others. After much prayer and deliberation on this important matter, he ventured at length to go forth in the’ strength of the Lord, and to proclaim that Jesus came to save sinners. This was in the year 1749, for in a manuscript written with the trembling hand of infirmity, in the year 1792, he mentions that he had been forty-three years engaged in publishing the precious truths of the gospel. His first labors, it is well known, were among the Methodists in Mr. Wesley’s connection; and having opportunities of preaching in various parts of the kingdom, he became signally and extensively useful. Many old disciples in that connection remember his name to this day with affection and gratitude.

Having labored for some years in Mr. Wesley’s connection, he found that he could no longer publicly insist upon certain points of doctrine maintained by that people. This occasioned some struggle in his mind, as to the propriety of his continuance in that connection, or separation from it. But after much deliberation, and earnest prayer, a separation appeared most eligible, and he determined peaceably to withdraw. This event look place about the spring of the year 1762. For a short seasun his mind was perplexed; not that he doubted his call to preach the gospel, but being unable to perceive to whom his future labors should be directed. The providence of God, however, soon delivered him from this embarrassment. A few faithful friends, to whom he had been useful, still adhered to him; and to them he continued to preach as opportimity permitted. These being soon increased by the addition of others, a scheme was suggested of erecting a house, in which they might more regularly assemble together. This plan was immediately adopted; but fresh difficulties occurred, as the parties concerned had no resources within themselves, equal to such an undertaking. But they were soon taught that the word of God is not bound, and that the Lord has the hearts of all men at his disposal. Such liberal contributions were obtained, as enabled them to accomplish their design. A house was erected, and a church formed on the independent, or congregational plan, of which Mr. Knight was ordained pastor, in the summer of 1763. This was a Bethel indeed. The word delivered within these walls W£is made effectual to the turning of many from the error of their ways, and to the building up of the people of God in their most holy faith. The congregation continually increasing, it soon became necessaiy to erect a galler)’. as large as the building would admit. Here he labored with much assiduity and zeal, preaching twice on the Lord’s day in the winter season, and three times in the summer, and giving a lecture on every Thursda)^ evening throughout the year. He administered the Lord’s supper regularly eveiy month; and on the Friday evening preceding the celebration of it. he met the members of his church, and delivered an address suited to the approaching solemnity.

He established among his people several little societies, which a,ssembled once a week, for the purpose of prayer and religious conversation. One of these societies met at his own house; and the rest he attended occasionally, as opportunity permitted.

By the divine blessing on his public and private labors, the number of those who attended the preaching of the word became so great, that a larger and more commodious house was necessary for their reception. This was for some time considered as a thing rather desirable than attainable. At length, however, it was cordially set about, and a very spacious and elegant structure

218 IVfEMOIHS OF WHITEFIELD.

some praiseworthy design, and zealous in the ticconiplishment of it; redeeming the time by repeated acts of piety and benevolence, which characterize the worthy man and christian; having a heart constantly flowing with ardent love for the souls of

completed, which was opened in May, 1772. Here he exercised his public ministrations to very large congregations, fill it pleased the Lord to incapacitate him for public service; and, to use his own expression, to reduce him from a working to a waititig servant.

About the year 1764, his acquaintance with Whilefield commenced, which, under God, was the means of extending his usefulness very considerably. For, being invited by Whitefield to his pulpits, and his preaching being ap-. proved, he afterwards became one of the assistant preachers, and spent two months every year in preaching at the Tabernacle, Tottenham court chapel, Greenwich, Woolwich, and other places in the same connection.

Mr. Knight had uniformly enjoyed a remarkable good state of health, till it pleased God to afflict him with a paralytic stroke, in the month of June, 1790. In a short time, he was so far recovered, that he resumed his usual labors. But his mental faculties, especially his memory, had evidently sustained an injury. Of this he was himself very sensible, but bore the affliction with a truly christian submission.

In the year 1791, he undertook his annual journey to London, but with a determination to preach more sparingly than usual. While in town, he was afflicted with a second paralytic stroke, which affected his understanding far more than the former. With great difficulty he returned to Halifax, and though, in a measure, he recovered from this stroke likewise, and afterwards preached several sermons, yet it left him so debilitated, that he was incapable of continuing his public services; and having preached, for the last time, on the 18th of September, 1791, from the convictions of his own mind, and the persuasions of nis friends, he resigned the charge of his congregation.

His patient submission to the divine will, was an instructive lecture to those who were around him. When he reflected on the decay of his mental faculties, he would sometimes say, “what an idiot I am become!” but immediately would add, “but no wrong is done to me. He that gave my faculties, has a right to take them away whenever he pleases, and he might justly have done so forty years ago.” Being asked by one of his sons, concerning the feelings of his mind, he replied, “I am happy on two considerations; the one is, that I am not in hell; the other, that I am not afraid of ever going there.” At another time, when several of his family were together, the subject of politics was introduced, and something mentioned respecting the probability of the king of France losing his crown; upon which he observed, though scarce able to understand the subject of conversation, “I know a king who will not lose his crown, I mean king Jesus. He reigns, and ever will reign;” and with a flood of tears he added, “to him I wish you every one to submit.”

His sight at length so failed, that he could neither read nor write; and his understanding and memory continuing to be impaired, he began to long for the hour of his dissolution. However, he seemed greatly afraid lesi his desire to depart and to be with Christ, should betray him into impatience. After breathing, rather than living, for some months, he was, on Saturday morning, March 2d, 1793, mercifully released from the burthen of the flesh, and removed to a better and indissoluble mansion, in the 74th year of his age.

O much respected, such lamented friend.
Thy life was holy — happy was thine end!
By saints esteem’d, and e’en by sinners blest,
And best belov’d by those who knew thee best!
In thee the Savior’s image clearly shone.
As crystal lakes reflect the orient sun.
The wonders grace divine pcrform’d in thee,
Such, and superior, may it work in me!

men, and especially a fervent desire to glorify God, accompanied by the deepest humility and self abasement; Whitciield, in these thirty-four years, may be said to have lived more than most men would do, though their lives were prolonged for many ages.

Early on the morning after his death, Mr. Sherburne of Portsmouth sent Mr. Clarkson and Dr. Haven, with a message to Mr. Parsons, desiring that Whitefield’s remains might be buried in his own new tomb, at his own expense; and in the evening several gentlemen from Boston, came to Mr. Parsons, desiring that the body might be carried there. But as Whitefield had repeatedly desired that he might be buried before Mr. Parsons’ pulpit, if he died at Newburyport, Mr. Parsons thought himself obliged to deny both of their requests.

The following account of his interment is subjoined to this sermon, viz: — October 2, 1770. At one o’clock all the bells in the town were tolled for an hour, and all the vessels in the harbor gave their proper signals of mourning. At two o’clock, the bells tolled a second time. At three, the bells called to attend a funeral. The Rev. Dr. Haven of Portsmouth, the Rev. Messrs. Daniel Rogers of Exeter, Jedediah Jewet, and James Chandler, of Rowley, Moses Parsons, of Newbury, and Edward Bciss, of Newburyport, were pall bearers. The procession was from the Rev. Mr. Parsons’ of Newburyport, where Whitefield died. Mr. Parsons and his family, together with many other respectable persons, followed the corpse in mourning. The procession reached only one mile, when the corpse was carried into the Presbyterian church, and placed on a bier in the broad aisle, over which the Rev. Mr. Rogers made a very suitable prayer in the presence of about six thousand persons, within the walls of the church, while many thousands were on the outside, not being able to find admittance. Then the following hymn by Dr. Watts was sung by the congregation.

Why do we mourn departing friends 1

Or shake at death’s alarms 1
‘Tis but the voice that Jesus sends

To call them to Ms arms.

Are we not tending upward too,

As fast as time can move 1
Nor should we wish the hours more slow,

To keep us from our love.

Why should we tremble to convey

Their bodies to the tomb”?
There the dear flesh of Jesus lay,

And left a long perfume.

The graves of all his saints he bless’d,
And soft’ned every bed;

Where should the dying members rest,
But with their dying Head “?

Thence he arose, ascending high,
And sliow’d our feet the way;

Up to the Lord our flesh shall fly,
At the great rising day.

Then let the last loud trumpet sound,
And bid our kindred rise;

Awake, ye nations under ground;
Ye saints ascend the skies.

The following Epitaph, in memory of Whitefield was composed by the Rev. Thomas Gibbons.

In Reverendum Virum
GEORGIUM WHITEFIELD,

Laboribus sacris olim abundantem; nunc vero, ut bene speraturcoslestem et imraortalem vitani cum Christo agenteni.

EPITAPHIM,

(Auctore Thomas Gibbons, S. T. P.)

Electum at divinuna was, Whitefielde, suisti

Ingenio pollens, divitiisque sacris:

His opibus populo longe lateque tributis,

Tandem perfruers lostitia superum

Inque banc intrasti, Domino plaudente ministrum:

Expertum in multis, assiduumque bonum:

Ecce met portus, et clara palatia cceli

Delicts plenis omnia aperta tibi.

Dummatutinam Stellam, quam dulce rubentem t

Vivificos roresque ossa sepulla manent.

TRANSLATION.

A vessel chosen and divine, replete

With nature’s gifts, and grace’s richer stores,

Thou Whitefield wast: these thro’ the world dispens’d

In long laborious travels, thou at length

Hast reach’d the realms of rest, to which thy Lord

Has welcomed thee with his immense applause.

All ijail, my servant, in thy various trusts

Found vigilant and faithful, see the ports,

See the eternal kingdoms of the skies.

With all their boundless glory, boundless joy

Open’d for tby reception, and thy bliss.

Mean time the body, in its peaceful cell

Reposing from its toils, awaits the star,

Whose living lusters lead that promised morn

Whose vivifying dews thy mouldered corse

Shall visit, and immortal life inspire.

The following inscription is on Whitefield’s tombstone, in Newburyport.

THIS CENOTAPH

is erected with affectionate veneration,

to the memory of the

REV. GEORGE WHITEFIELD,

born at Gloucester, Eng. Dec’r. 16, 1714: educated at Oxford University: ordained 1736. Iq a ministry of thirty-four years, he crossed the Atlantic thirteen times, and preached more than eighteen thousand sermons. As a soldier of the cross, humble, devout, ardent; he put on the whole armor of God, preferring the honors of Christ to his own interest, repose, reputation, or life. As a Christian orator, his deep piety, disinterested zeal, and vivid imagination, gave unexampled energy to his look, action, and utterance. Bold, fervent, pungent, and popular in his eloquence, no other uninspired man ever preached to so large assemblies, or enforced the simple truths of the gospel by motives so persuasive and awful, and with an influence so powerful on the hearts

of his hearers.

He died of asthma, Sept. 30, 1770;

suddenly exchanging his life of unparalleled labors for his

eternal rest.