Memoir, 1796

Introduction to Dr. Baehanan — Journey to Scotland — Preaching in the Kirk — Extempore myer — Diaiy of the jonmey — Previous tour to Eton — Cowatip Green — King’s lirthday at Edinburgh — Mr. Dickson — Dr. Erskine — Sermon before the Magistrates-Sir John Stirling — Mr. Haldane — On drinking Toasts — Lord Adam Gordon- Dinner at Holyrood House — Mr. Colquhoun — Mr. Black — Length of sacramental services — Mr. SherifF — Mr. Campbell — Effect of his exhortation — Lord Leven — Dr. Stewart of Moulin — Narrative of the visit — Benefit to Dr. Stewart — Mr. Falconer of Glasgow-Lanerk and Mr. Dale — Contentment of a blind man — Sacrament in the Canongate Church — Gratitude for mercies — Devotional exercises — Return to England — Studley Park — Mr. Robinson of Leicester — Mr. Jones of Creaton — Yelling — Letters from Dr. Buehaoan, Mr. Black, and Dr. Stewart — Answer of Mr. Simeon.

MEMOIR CONTINUED.

“In the year 1796, a Scotch minister, whom I think it one of the greatest blessings of my life ever to have known, Dr. W. Buchanan of Edinburgh, was introduced to me; and I went with him to Edinburgh and through (the Highlands, and again in 1798 to) Inverness and Tain; and from thence through Koss-shire to the Hebrides, and back through Glasgow, &c. In almost all the places that we went to I preached; and I established a lecture in Edinburgh, which has been continued ever since. Except when I preached in Episcopal chapels, I officiated precisely as they do in the Kirk of Scotland: and I did so upon this principle; Presbyterianism is as much the established religion in North Britain, as Episcopacy is in the South: there being no difference between them, except in church-government As an Episcopalian, therefore, I preached in Episcopal chapels; and as a member of the Establisned Church, I preached in the Presbyterian churches; and I felt myself the more warranted to do this, because, if the king, who is the head of the Establishment in both countries, were in Scotland, he would of necessity attend at a Presbyterian church there, as he does at an Episcopalian church here: and I look upon it as an incontrovertible position, that where the king must attend a cleiyman may preach. I was informed indeed that Archbishop Usher had preached in the KLirk of Scotland; and I know that some very high churchmen had done so; but without laying any stress on precedents, I repeat, that where the king and his court must attend a clergyman may preach. And I believe many will bless God to all

68 sovmtivr to Scotland. [obap. ti*

eternity that ever I did preach there.** But I cannot help recording here, to the honor of the Church of England, that, on all the three times that I have visited Scotland, and have attended almost entirely the Presbyterian churches, I have on my return to the use of our Liturgy been perfectly astonished at the vast superiority of our mode of worship, and felt it an inestimable privilege that we possess a form of sound words, so adapted in every respect to the wants and desires of all who would worship Gkpd in spirit and in truth.’’

In speaking of the comparative excellencies of extempore prayer and written forms, Mr. S. would frequently observe: “If all men could pray at all times, as some men can sometimes then indeed we might prefer extempore to pre-composed prayers.”

On joining Mr. Buchanan, and preparing to accompany him to Scotland, Mr. S. commenced a Diary; which is here given entire, with the exception only of a few passages, which are of no interest or importance.

“Maj, 16th. — Arrived in London about 5 p. m. Joined Mr. Buchanan in pvayer, and proceeded immediately fiir Windsor. In our way we pnyed again, and God was exceedingly gracious to ua all.

17th. — Before bieakfist nw the Cattle, St George’s Chapel, and at 11 went to Mmttm. Here I felt peculiar satisfaction in showing to my mends a sight, which was so entirely new to them. The goodness of God to us was at that time peculiarly maniftet; finr there was not anything, which could contribute to our pleasure, which we did not enjoy. We saw the boys go twice round the school-yard, and then intending entirely to leave them, we accidentally got into Dr. Weston’s yard, and there stood close to the king: we heard him converse with Dr. Heath the prove and others in a most condeeoending manner.

18th. — Henley. Having read the Scriptures and prayed together, not without tears of joy, we reached our inn.”

He then proceeds to Oxford — Bath — and Bristol — thence to the Mendip Hills. ‘*Hr. B. and myself understanding that we were within a mile of Cowslip Ghn, paid a viait to the Miss. Mores. Hannah was not at home; and we saw only Sally and Patty. They seemed to be the very fures of happiness: and they gave us much pleasing information. They have not less than 1100 cnildren in different schools; and including sick, and teachers, &c., not less than 1800 persons under their care. Tfa(B magistrates of Blagdon (a few miles from them) not long since entreated them to take the whole parish under their care; and soon, from a remarkably vicious and abandoned place, it is become sober and industrious.”

Thence to Gloucester — Worcester — Birmingham — and Maddy; “Here we called on that blessed mother in Israel Mn. Fletcher; she is somewhat asthmatic and infirm; but on the whole in good spints, and capable of much usefulness to the Church of God.”

Thence to Stone — Ashboum — Dovedale — and Buxton. May 37th.”

Here the Diary terminates abruptly.

“Edinburgh, Friday, June yd, 1796.

Saturday, 4th. — At 8 o’clock in the morning I was fortunate enough to hear a eennoB, annually preached on that day, (king’s birthday V by the king’s almoner, before the king’s penners, a few poor men and women; who receive a new gown or coat, with a

* “It is curious that I should live to see this veiy circumstance occur — Geosge the Fourth has just been to visit Edinburgh. He spent two Sundays there: the fiist Sunday he went nowhere; the second Sunday he was constrained to attend at St Qiks’s Chuich, (the High Chuich.) Aug. S5, 1828. — Written Sept 3, 1822.”

pflnay Sx evoy year that the kins has fived. The praaefaer wai Mr. O., Dr. Blair’s ooUeague. His text was John t. 1., and his discoane was sensible, but not deep, or perfiKtly orthodox. A Mr. Dickson, the minister of the chapel, which Bfr. Buchanan was the means of baikfing in his own pariah, breakfasted with ns. He seems a truly dewoied servant of Jesus Christ After break&st, I walked with Mr. B. to the new town. We first called on Dr. Eemp, the secretary of the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge; in him are united the ffentleman and the minister of Christ

Sunday, 5th. — I went to hear Dr. Eiskine at the new Gray Fiian — His appearmnoe and leai reminded me much of my dear friend Mr. Venn: but notwithstanding his animation and good sense, I thought the whole congregation felt wearied with the bavins two complete services at one tmie. In the afternoon I preached at the Canongate, and conducted the service in the usual manneia psalm — a general prayer — a sermon — a paiticolar prayer for the spread of the Gospel, for the kinff and royal family, the magistrates and miniateis, those presiding in that church, the sick &c. — a psalm and the bediction. According to my mstructions, I remembered to dose the whole with bowing to the magistrates who sat before me. They also politely bowed to me. In the evening I preached at Mr. Dickson’s new chapel in the Canongate, to a very crowded audience, and through mercy, with much liberty and comfort The Lord ffrant it may not have been in vam. At each service of the day I gave my shilling at the door of the church; but were I to attend always, I must of necessity lower my donations. In the evening Sir John Stirling, of Glaurat near Glasgow, supped with us. He came in while Mr. B. in his usual manner was catechizing bis niece and servanu. I was astonished at their wadinewB in answering his questions, and in giving an account of what they had heard in the day. Sir John is a remarkably pleasing man, and a truly pious Christianone of his daughters, as he informed us, was in a very dejected state of mind. He did me the honor to accept Fawcett’s Cure qfMelanehofy; and I hope it may please Gkxl to render it useful to her soul. He gave me a most friendly invitation to his house, and promised he would procure roe a piSpit

Monday, Gth. — Mr. B. carried me to Mr. Dkkson’s to tea. It was the monthly meeting of a few friends, to which they did me the &vor to admit me. After tea we retired to a room, and having prayed, read the Greek Test: (Rom. vi.) with useful criticisms and observations. We tljen prayed again, and walked afterwards till the time for fiunily pnyer. The ministers were Messrs. Dickson, Buchanan, Jones (an Englishman, but of the Scotch church in Edinburgh,) Paul, and Black. We afterwards supped together and spent a very profitable and peasant evening.

Tuesday, 7th. — 1 went to hear an evenmg lecture at the high church. I expected to have heard Dr. Davidson, one of the most popular preachers in Edinburgh; but was

grievously disappointed. The preacher was Mr. y one of the most drawling and un-’

mteresting teachers I ever heanl. I am happy, however, to hear ttiat he is a good man; and 1 desire to take shame to myself, that 1 cannot more divest myself of all regard to good sense or propriety in a sermon, and hear it, however weak it be, as the word of God to my souL

Wednesday, 8th. — Dined at Dr. Erskine’s with Dr. Davidson, Mr. Black, Mr. Moody of Perth. Never was there a more friendly warm-hearted man than Dr. E., nor have I often spent a more pleasant or profitable season. A perfect freedom from bigotry, and a Christian cheerfulness, seemed to pervade the whole company. Oh that 1 might get more good, and do more good while I pnjoj the privilege of access to such company! Dr. E. presented me with a publication of ms entitled, SketehM qf Church History. As a token of hb love, and as a remembrance of the good old man, I esteem it a great treasure.

Thursday, 9th. — On this day my dear friends invited a party to dine with me. It con- ■sted of Sir John Stirling, Dr. Hunter, Mr. Black, Mr. Dickson, and Mr. Paul. Nothing can exceed the attentbn and kindness of my dear friends. Mr. B. has been unwearied in his endeavors to introduce me to the most godly people, to show me every thing that can be seen, and to provide me a companion for my northern tour. I desire to give glory to my Gtxl for all the love which I meet with, and ardently wish that it may be 3ie means of humbling me in the dust, and not puffing me up with pride, as though I merited such regard. Our time passed both pleasantly and profitably. I could wish however that the custom of drinking toasts was banbhed from the tables of the serious, because it tends to excess, and invites persons to drink more than they would wish. I gave some hints of this kind: and hope they may not be in vain. In the evening I preached at Mr. D.’s chapel: there was a very crowded congregation; but I found myself a good deal straitened. I thought, that as I had preached twice on this subject with great liberty, I need not to bestow any time in reflecting upon it I thank my God fiv muking me, and hope to look more to him in ftiture.

70 HIB JOUBNBY TO SCOTLAND. [CHAP. ▼!•

Fiidav, 10th. — How wonderful u the eoodneis of God to me! Ereiythmg thai I could wish, and much more than I could have expected, has taken place. On Thiir»- day, Sir John Stirling offered me his own mare for my northern tour; and this day, Mr. Haldane has offered to aocomrany me. Surely goodbness and mercy are following um all my way. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless his holy name.

Saturday, 11th. — At five o’clock I went to dine with Lord Adam Gordon, at Holyrood House. His lordship wu extremely potite and affable: being an old Etonian, we talked much of Eton, and he remembered much of places adjacent and of the vaiions amusements there. He had given up his part of the Palace to Monsieur, while the royal apartments were fitting up; and in the meantime inhabited those which belonged to the Duke of Arffyle. Not an improper word was spoken by any person the whole time: having drunk our coffee, we left him, much pleased with his courtesy and kindness.

Sunday, 12th. — Mr. Buchanan lectured on Phil. i. 1 — 6. How wonderfully well he prays! and how admirably does he expound! Blessed be God for enduing him with so much grace and wisdom. The second part of the service I took, and preached with much liberty. In the afternoon 1 preachea for Mr. Black. He has a good church, with a front gallery containing about a dozen seats, one above the other, and fliU of young men belongins to the college. In the evening I preached at Mr. Dickson’s chapeT which was full at least half an*hour before service; not less than 2000 were in it, and hundreds went away, because they coald not find admittance. God seemed to be with us in every part of the day: blessed be his name.

Monday, I3th. — Mr. 6. went with me to dine at Rev. Mr. Colquhoun’s, at Leith. Mr. C. is a truly good man. I preached for him that evening; and had about 2000. It is the best church to speak in I ever saw.

Tuesday, 14th. — Went to dine with Lady Maxwell: she delivered to me a message from Lady Grant, the wife of Sir James G., who is the head of that clan, desiring me to ffo and see her at Castle Grant, and offering to send her carriage a stage to meet me. Lady Glenorchy sent me a similar message by Dr. Erskine. ‘nie former invitation I cannot accept j the latter I hope to avail myself of Preached at Mr. Dickson’s chapel, which was quite full; and afterwards supped with Mr. Black. What a delightful couple are Mr. and Mrs. Black! There met us Mr. Haldane.

Thursday, 16th. — Sir John Stirling took me in his carriage as far as the Canon Works, in niy wa to Stirling. The person to whom I had a letter from Mr. Balfour showed no disposition to communicate to me either information or pleasure; he refused to show me the boring of cannon, notwithstanding I convinced him that it was no secret to me. Here I was disappointed. I arrived about nine at Mr. Inncs’s (at Stirling.) Here I met with a very friendly reception.

Friday, 17th. — Set off to see the Caldron Linn and the Rumbling Brig. Very soon after dinner (which was at five) I retired, bein|f to preach in Mr. L’s church. There was a pretty good conffregration: but I did not find much unction.

Saturday-, loth. — This being the day before the Sacrament, there were two sermons in succession, one by Mr. Robinson, on 1 Cor. xv. 4. He has a good voice, and on the whole is a good preacher; but I was heavy. Mr. Campbell succeeded him, and preached on Matt. xxvi. * Let this cup pass.’ The sermon was admirable, but too long. The former had been an hour ana a quarter, besides prayer and singing; and this was an hour and a half Had I been fresh and lively I should greatly have enjoyed this excellent sermon; but I had no ears to ear; the lengtl) of the service wearied me exceedingly. Nor was I singular; the whole congregation were much like myself; many were asleep, and all the rest had a stupid unmeaning stare, that evidenced them to be altogether unmoved by the precious tbmgs that were spoken. After Mr. C. had finishedj Mr. Sheriff, the minister of St. Ninnian’s, went up, and (as they call it) gave directions respecting the time and manner of administering the Sacrament next day. To this he added a word of exhortation, which would probably have been three-quarters of an hour more, had not Mr. C. desired him to be short. The whole service continued about four hours and a (quarter. The.last address, bein short and affectionate, seemed to arouse the congregation out ot their lethargy; and indeed it was more to me than all the rest I would not however subject myself willingly to such another season of fatigue.

Sunday, 19. — Went with Messrs. Innes and Campbell to Stf Ninnian’s. Mr. Sheriff bn the service, and preached a useful sermon from Heb. x. 10. After preaching above an hour, besides prayer and singing, he left the pulpit and went to the head of the tables. There he gave an exhortation respecting the Sacrament, which to me was mora excellent than his sermon. H^ had some ideas that were new to me; vix. that on the Day of Atonement, the high priest alone slew the sacrifices; intimating that Christ alone should perform the o&e of atoning. The other was, that before the offering of the incense, ne had on the common gannents of the priests, bat afterwaxds his goulen

CBAP. YI.] JOURNET TO SCOTLAND. 71

lannents; intimating that Chriit should be raited in a riorified bod. I communicated at the second table, where Mr. Campbell exhorted. His exhortation was exceedinglj’ precious to mj soul: I was quite dissoWed in tears; I made a free, full, and unreserrad surrender of myself to Qod. O, that 1 may ever bear in mind his kindness to me, and n obligations to him! — After communicating I lefl them, and saw, as I came into the churchyard, one preaching there in a tent. Ttus preacher was Mr. G. of Bathcannor; I did not stop to near him, lest I should lose the blessed frame in which my soul then was. I walked home alone by choice, and met numbers coming to the Sacrament, which, as I understood, lasted till about eight in the evening. They had about 1000 communicants — a fresh exhortation to every table — and a sermon to conclude. They who could stay there from beginning to end, with any profit to their souls, must be made of different materials from me.

Monday, 20th.-7-Balgonie. Here we were hospitably received by Lord and Lady B. There were prayers in the evening; and the conversation had a very useful turn.

Tuesday, &lst. — Lord B. accompanied us to Melville, the seat of Lord Leven, his father, who has for nine years been commissioner, i e. the representative of the king in the General Assembly. His lordship received us with much courtesy. He had a considerable part of his fiunily with him. Our conversation was altogether spiritual; and the whole family evidently took pleasure in it. They wished me to speak m the evening, and assembled about a dozen besides all their own &mily to hear. The Lord ftvored us with a profitable opportunity. The house is large, but not grand: the furniture is old and plain; the pictures are few. There was, however, what is infinitely bet than pomp and grandeur, a peace and harmony, the offspring of well-regulated habits and inclinations.

Wednesday, 22nd. — To St. Andrew’s.

Thursday, 23rd. — St. Madoes. Stopped at Rev. Mr. Kennedy’s, and a delightful visit we had. Wo found sweet communion with him and his wife. AH the road from Dundee to Perth is exquisitely beautiful, along the banks of the Tay.

Friday ,*24th. — Set out for Dunkeld — saw the Duke of Athol’s grounds. Here I was fstigned with my walk — we declined prosecuting oar journey, notwithstanding the horses were at the door. There, through mercy, I slept sweeUy, and pursued my journey oa Saturday 25th to Moalin: twelve miles in my way to Bait Athol. At Moulm, I visited Rev. Mr. Stewart, a most agreeable and pious man. The Sacrament was to be administned next day, and according to custom, there were two complete services: but the former alone was in English. I heard the discourse from Mr. £., minister of Blair. He is an old man, and wants life and animation. Neither myself nor Mr. H. was much edified. After the service we went to Blair. We returned through Killicrankie Pass to Moulin.

This was the first step of my return.

Sunday, SGth. — Sacrament Sunday at Moulin. The congregation was numeroos, and the communicants almost 1000. I preached a short sermon, and while they were partaking, I spoke a few words of encouragement, and bid them depart in peace. I expressed to them in the former exhortation my fears respecting the formality which obtuns among all the people, and urged them to devote themselves truly to Jesus Christ After that I partook with the third table. On the whole, this Sabbath was not like the kst. Then 1 was very much affected: now I was barren and dull: G^ however is the same, and his word is unchangeable: and in that is all my hope. Woe be to me if I were to be saved by my frames: nevertheless, I would never willingly be in a bad one. At six in the evening I preached again to those who understood English; but they were few, and they seemed not to understand me. In the evening Mr. Stewart came up into my room; and we had much and useful conversation about the ministry. He complained much of unprofitableness, and was much affected during the conversation. We prayed together, anu parted very affectionately with the * Osculum pacis.’ He promised to writs to me.”

This proved a most important meeting to Mr. Stewart: and little did Mr. Simeon imagine, during his” barren and dulP state that day, what blessed results would follow from this evening conversation, Mr. S. narrates the circumstance more in detail in his own memoirs (1813.) When I was in the Highlands, it was my intention to go as far as the pass of Killicrankie, and afterwards return to Dunkeld, on a Friday afternoon. But at Dun-

72 JOUHNIT TO SCOTLAND. [OHAP* TI.

keld I felt myself poorly; and when my horses were brought to the door, I ordered them back; and proceeded to Killicrankie the next day. At Moulm« a village four miles from K., I called to see a Mr. Stewart, to whom I had a letter of introduction; and as it was the day of preparation for the Lord’s Supper, which in Scotland is observed with peculiar solemnity and long public services, I agreed to visit the pass of K., and return for his services and spend the Sabbath with him. Mr. Stewart, the minister, was a man in high repute, both for amiableness of manners and for learning; but he was very defective in his views of the Gospel, and in his experience of its power. When we were all retiring to go to bed, I had him with me alone in my chamber, and spoke such things as occurred to my mind with a view to his spiritual good; and it pleased God so to apply them to his heart, tnat they were made effectual for the opening of his eyes, and bringing him into the marvellous light of the Gospel of Christ. From that moment he changed the strain of his preaching, determining to know nothing among his people but Jesus Christ, and him crucified: and God has now, for these fifteen years, made his instructions most eminently useful for the conversion and salvation of many souls.”*

“Mondayth. — To Taymooth.

TimmUt, 28Ui. — To Inverary. Oar minds the whole dvr were in a moet oomfortable fiame. We arrived at oar inn; having unbounded caose &r thankfalne« to God. O! tot a heart to praiae him.

Wednesday, 29th.~To Aroquhar and Lasi.

Thursday, 30th. — To Ben Lomond. From the foot we arrived at the top in three hoojs. Mr. H. and myself then went to prayer, and dedicated ourselves afresh to God. We then surveyed the scenery, which to the north-west was exceedingly grand: for immediately across the lake were a vast multitude of hills, whose lofty summits, clad in russet, lormed a view totally different from anything 1 had ever seen. We had a bird’s-eye view of them, and their appearance was inexpressibly majestic.

Friday, July 1st — At Dumbarton, and to Glassgow.

Sunday, yd. — Had an interview with Rev. Dr. Falconer. He iministor of the English chapel; and at his request I preached for him both morning and afternoon. !• had ffood seasons on the whole; thanks be to God for them. In the evening I preached at me Ck>Ilege Kirk. There was a large audience, and the place was well calculated to speak in. Blessed be Grod for a good season. After service a great many ministeFs came into the vestry.

Monday, 4th. — I preached at eleven o’clock at the Chapel of Ease to a very considerable congregation.

Tuesday, 5th. — I preached at twelve o’clock at Kilsyth, at Rev. Mr. R.’s. All his elders met after the service, and commissioned him to thank me in their name. This is an encouragement to preach more, both in season and out of season.’

WednesiSiy, 6th. — At Glassgow. In the evening I preached again at the Chapel of Ease to a verf larse congregatbn; I suppoee 1800 persons. We had a refreshing season, espedally while addressing young persons, firom lauah Iv. 8, 9. Rev. Mr. Falconer, the English minister, was one of myjaudience. He had previously called upon me to desire that I would preach for him again. His congation had been pleased with what they had heard, and commissioned nim to repeat his invitation. This I look upon as a spedyal

For a full account of this revival of religion at Moulin, see the Memoirs qf Or. Stewart, In Mr. Simeon’s copy of the work, ffiven to him in 1823 by Dr. Buchanan, he has written: — “When I preached all through Scotland in the year 1796, the expediency of it was doubted by some on this side the Tweed. But no one who reads tnis oirwiU doubt it”

CBAf ▼!•] JOmiNBY TO 800TLANA. 78

mfBKf firom God; for though I endeavored to speak pradentlj, I withheld nothing that was profitable to them. In the evening eevenl were invited by my worthy host to sap with me: amoiu these was Mr. Dale, the proprietor of the works at Lanark.

Thnrsday, 7th. — To Hamilton and LAnark. We did not stop in the town, but proceeded to the cotton-mills, by the express desire of Mr. Dale. After being refreshed with a dish of tea, I spoke to 4 or 500 children, besides about 200 grown persons. The children were orderly and unifiprmlv clothed; but I was not able to fix their attenlion long. It did not appear to me a profitable season; the fault was my own; I had not studied any subject, nor was my spirit devootlv impressed with my ofiice and employment Thanks be to Gkid who has given one to bear the iniquity of mv holy things.

Friday, 8th. — Went to see Lady Ross’s grounds. Here also I saw blind men weaving. They had just been taught a little in the asylum at Edinburgh.

Mat I NfiYEB PORGBT THE FOLLOWlNa PACT I —

One of the blind men, on being interrogated with respect to his knowledge of spiritual thinoB, answered, ‘I never saw till I was blind; nor did I ever know contentment when I had my eyesight, as I do how that I have lost it: I can truly afiirm, though few know how to credit me, that I would on no account change my present situation and circumstances with any that I ever enjoyed before I was blind.’ He had enjoyed eyesight till 35, and had been blind now about three years. My soul was much afiected and com-Ibited with his declaration. Surely there is a reality in religion! In the evening we arrived at Edinburgh, crowned’ with mercy and loving-kindness.

Saturday, 9th. — It being the day before the Sacrament in the Canongate Church, there was a sermon there by Mr. Dickson. Mr. D. is a blessed man of Gou, and I trust a very useful minister of Christ.

Sunday, lOth. — Now for the third time I partook of the holy Sacrament. Mr. Buchanan preached upon Ps. xlii. 1, 3. ‘As the hart,’ &c. His sermon was well calculated for usefulness: it was in every respect judicious, and well delivered. He aflerwards fenced the tables judiciously for about half an hour, and then served the first table; when his observations were truly edifying and comforting. At the fifth table I myself partook. I had a delightful season, and Christ was peculiarly precious to my soul. I did not attend to the elhortation, but to m own meditations; for indeed the custom of ghrins continued exhortations is very bad, inasmuch as it prevents people from atteodinff to their own private and personal concerns. On my return home I found a still neher savor of divine things, so that never in my life did I feel my soul filled with more self-abhorrence, or more admiring thoughts of the Saviour’s love. I dined at Mr. B.’s, but did not, like the others, return to church. I had to preach a sermon in Lady Glenorehy’s chapel; there were about 3000 people in it; aou the Lord gave me liberty in addressing tnem on behalf of the destitute sick; and they collected what was much more than I believe they ever had before. 1 found mvself so indisposed by oiy cold, that this duty was all which I thought it prudent to undertake in this day. Mr. Haldane gave me a parting prayer at night

Monday, 11th. — I was still poorly, but ventured out to the accustomed service after the Saerament Sir Harry Monereiff* preached on self-denial; and a very deep, sensible, and experimental sermon it was. He showed that we were called to deny ourselves, 1. in resisting whatever obstructed the divine life; 2. in exercising the duties and functions of the divine life. I was so poorly I could scarcely open m;^ eyes; but this did not prevent me from hearing with profit. After sermon this mornine, my dear friend Mr. Haldane left me, after having been my companion three weeks. We were mutually afp ftcted with fervent love to each other, and with thankfulness that we had been permitted so to meet together.

Tuesday, 12th. — I was so much worse that I thought it prudent to send for Mr. Bell, the most eminent surgeon in Europe. I sat all the morning in an easy chair, not having an idea in my mind. He gave me leave to preach in the evening. In my sermon the Lord vouchsafiKl to me and to the people much of his presence. It was a solemn auod impressive season. Nor was I at all the worse for my exertions.

Wednesday, 13th. — I was manifestly better, and jojrfully paid my guinea to Mr. Bell. Lady Maxwell, and many others, sent to make inquiries after my hth; thanks be to <3od for such love shown to his unworthy servant. Once more, through the mercy of God, I was spared to preach in Mr. Dickson’s chapel. This also was a very profitable occasion; and the last sermon that I preached in Scotland. Respecting all toe sermons I preached, since nqr first departure from Caitibridge to this hour, I must acknowledge, to the glory of my Qod, and with most unfeigned thanks to his name, I have experien the Divine presence in a manner that I never have in my whole life during so long a period togetner. O that I may be constrained by this mercv to devote myself more entirely to Sie service of my blessed Lord and Master 1 My labon had rather a good ef-

74 JOUKNET TO SCOTLAND. [cHAP. rt,

feet on my bodily health; and I retted well thiongh the night — Adored be my God! Amen.

Thursday, 14th. — My dear friend Mr. Buchanan kindly anisted me in packing or rather, packed up my things for me. This done, wt conduded aa we had begvn wiih prayer. I set off about two o’clock upon my return for England.

Saturday, 16th. — Reckoning Berwick, with three miles on the north and west of it, as a kind of neutral spot, 1 parsed into England over the Tweed, and again devoted myself to God, who had spared and preserved me from the time that I fint entered Scot* land to the moment I left it. O that I could bear in mind the goodness of the Lord!

Wednesday, 20th. — Studley Park, and Hackfall. — In the course of conversation with the person who showed me the grounds, I took occasion from the rocks to speak of Chnst; and had the happiness to find that he had been lately awakened at the age of sixty. Afler much sweet conversation, wherein he spoke of the sood done by the Metaodists in that ndghborhood, I prayed with him in a small kind of hall on the sommit of the highest hills. It was a refreshing season: and I bless Grod for it

Harrowgate, and Leeds.

Thursday, 2l8t. — I saw Mr. Atkinson. He gave me an affectionate and hearty welcome.

Saturday, 23rd. — I went to breakfast with Dr. Coulthurst and his lady at Hali&x.

Tuesday, 26th. — Arrived at Nottingham to breakfast: at Louff hborouffh called on Mr. and Mrs. Cradock. Set off for Leiceister; — where I arrived a little before the evening service. Mr. Robinson desired me to preach; nor did I need any invitation; for I was glad of an opportunity to testify my love towards him, and had pressed forward nearly ninety miles in two days for that very purpose. It was an additional happiness to me to meet dear Mr. Lloyd there: his heart was full of love; blessed be Ood for him! Mr. Jones of Creaton, and Mr. Brotherhood, were also at Mr. Robinson’s; the former is but poorly in health and spirits, but in a delightful state as to his soul. It was a gloridu sight to behold a week-day lecture so well attended; and on the whole I had reason to be thankful for Divine assistance, as I hope the people had for somewhat of a blessing.

Wednesday, 27th. — Afler breakfast Mr. R. and Mr. L. went with me to visit of

whom, alas! I hear but poor accounts, which grieve me much. Mr. R. informs me that she seldom attends his church, and that she has suffered loss through the respect paid to her abilities. O, how dangerous is it to meet with honor and applause! May trod keep me from so abusing that measure of love and respect which I nave received through the whole of my journey.

Thursday, 28th. — Harborough, and Orlingbury.

Friday, 29th. — I went to Mr. Kilvington’s early, and breakfasted there: he is in the parsonilfi, a comfortable situation — a quiet haven after all his storms.

To Thrapston.

My servant not meeting me at Huntingdon with my mare as I expected, I went gently to Yelling, and stayed there all night Mr. Venn breaks apace, but is in a blessed frame.

Saturday, 30th. — I arrived at Cambridge, (thanks be to my Ood,) in perfect safety; and found all things as I left them. May Gad enable me to devote myae(f to him more unreacrvedty than ever!**

The Rev. Dr. Buchanan to Mr. Simeon.

“Canongate, July 18, 1796. * * * “Many, I trust, have cause to thank God for your visit to Scotland; as for myself, I consider it as one of the greatest mercies I have received for a long time; and had nothing else been the result of my journey to England, I would have thought myself amply repaid. The friendship that has taken place betwixt us is founded not on the fluctuating principles of the world; and shall continue, I hope, to exist when this world and all its fleeting vanities shall be for ever at an end.”

“The Rev. Mr. Black to Mr. Stewart.

“Oct, 1796.

“I cannot express the heartfelt joy which I have re-CHAP. YI.] JOU&NE^ TO SCOTLAND. 75

oeived from your two last letters. I desire to join with you in giving all the praise to Him, to whom alone it is due, who hath showed you the power of his works, and what great things he can and will do for those that hope in his mercy. Indeed, the more I think upon the means of your present revival, the more I am filled with astonishment at the methods of the Lord’s dealing with his people. Mr. Simeon’s visit to Scotland was altogether unexpected. He has told me, that till he saw Dr. Buchanan, he had no more idea of coming to Scotland, than of £;oing to the East or West Indies. His calling at Moulin was equally unlocked for. The letter which introduced him was quite a random thought that occurred to me, I cannot tell why or how. Upon what trivial circumstances do many of the most important events of our lives turn I Two strangers from a distance must be sent to Moulin, at a season of peculiar solemnity, to become the instruments of good to your soul, and through you to the souls of many. O, my dear sir, * magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.’ He is ’ excellent in counsel, and wonderful in working? and your experience is now added to that of thousands who can declare, that verily there is a God that heareth prayer. I rejoice to hear that this lively, comfortable frame of mind still remains, and that it is attended with renewed alacrity in your public work. Long may it continue so, for your own comfort, and the benefit of your people! But changes, inward as well as outward, you must expect to meet — with many a dark and rugged step. But O! what a privilege is it to know where relief is to be Ibund: to know, experimentally, the power and grace of our Almighty Physician; and under a daily, deep conviction of our guilt and helplessness, to be committing our souls, our families, our flocks, our every concern, into his faithful hands who careth for us.**

Dr. Buchanan to Mr. Simeon.

Oct 26, 1796.

* * *” The accounts you give me of the good that is doing at Cambridge fill mv heart with joy. Oh! may you have a great, a very great deal of such news to send me from time to time. What so reviving as to hear of poor sinners, especially young ones, inquiring after God their Maker and Redeemer; and still more, of persons in the ministry, who begin to perceive the glory, and feel the power of that blessed Cross, at which they once stumbled and were offended. My dear brother, our gracious Master has been pleased to honor you greatly in this best of works. I have Mr. Black’s permission to transcribe the following paragraph from a letter he lately received firom Mr. Stewart of Moulin, which will show you what good you were the instrument of doing in one important instance, when in Scotland. * The sentiments (says Mr. Stewart) I have

76 JOURNET TO SCOTLAND. [cHAP. Vf.

felt since Mr. Simeon’s visit, you have been pleased to call a revival; and I am not sure but an expression of my own may have suggested the word. The word however, does not strictly apply. It was no revival: I never was alive till then. I thins, however, I was in a state of preparation. I was gradually acauiring a knowledge of divine truth. It was ven me to see lat such truths are contained in the Scriptures; but I did not feel them. Indeed, I yet feel them but very imperfectly. I know nothing to which I can so fitly compare myself as to EzekieFs dry bones, when they were covered with flesh and skin, but were without life or sensation. It was reserved for Mr. Simeon to be the man, who should be appointed to prophesy to the wind and say, “Come from the four winds, O, breath, and breathe upon this dejul body, that it may live,” &c.’ What joy should this give you, and how much should it animate all of us to be faithful and zealous in speaking for God, when he gives us opportunity. I desired both Mr. Black and Mr. Haldane to inform Mr. Stewart that you would be glad to hear from him.”

The Rev. A. Stewart to Mr. Simeon.

“Moulin, Not. 25, 1796.

“Dear Sir, —

“Ever since the few happy hours in which I was blessed with your company, I have daily thought, with pleasure and gratitude, of the Lord’s loving kindness to me in sending two of his chosen servants, so unexpectedly and so seasonably, to speak to me the words of life. Often have I longed to express to you my ideas and feelings; but knowing your many engagements, I was unwilling to obtrude myself on you as a correspondent; especially as the number of these must have been considerably increased by your late excursion to Scotland. My kind friend Mr. Haldane, in a letter I received two days ago, tells me you have not forgotten me, and that you desire to hear from me. I cannot any longer deny mvself the pleasure of complying with your kind request. I wish I knew how to express my filial regard and attachment to one, whom I have every reason to consider as my spiritual father. If Onesimus might call Paul his father, with the like reason may I call Mr. Simeon mine. For indeed I found from your conversation, your prayers, preaching, and particularly from our short interview in your bed-room, more of religious impression, and more of spiritual life and ardor infused into mv soul, than ever I was conscious of before. I had read and heard about the natural state of man, and about the grace of the Gospel; but never till then felt its power. My opinions were, I believe, pretty free from error; but tney had not yet afiected my heart I knew, and had no doubt, that the objects revealed in the Gospel were real; but I did not see them, feel them, taste them. O, my dear sir, praise the Lord on ray behalf, who hath given me to perceive something

CEUF« YL] JOUXNBT TO SCOTLAND. 77

of his glory and his grace, as displayed in Christ Jesus; though I have a ffreat deal yet to see and to learn. * * * In emulation of your manner of preaching, I have for four months past preached English from short skeletons, without reading or committing to memory; a thing I had never attempted before. My discourse is less correct, and must offend a critic; but it is more energetic, and may profit a soul that is hungry for the bread of life. Apropos of skeletons, Mr. Haldane has just sent me yours. I have done little more vet than cut up the leaves, and glance at a page or two. I already see in them the correct, orderly, logical brain of a Cambridge graduate; and I am sure, I shall find, on fiulher perusal, much sound, salutary instruction. I see in the Essay many things wholly new to me: for at the Divinity Hall where I studied, or rather attended, we never got one direction how to make a sermon. As I am only beginning to practise the art of preaching, I hope I may get profit by these instructions. * * Next to the conversation and society of my respected friends, I have always found their letters one of the most eflicacious means of quickening and rousing the faint, spiritual principle within me. If you can spare time to write to me, I shall esteem it as a high favor, and I am sure it will do me good. Through the Lord’s kindness to us, my wife, sister, and little boy are all well. We enjoy peace, harmony, and the comforts of domestic society in an uncommon degree. We all join in most affectionate and respectful regards to you. Grace and peace be with you. ‘Yours most sincerely,

“Alex. Stewart.”

“P. S. — A poor woman in this village, who heard you preach here, insists on my letting you know how much she enjoyed your discourse, and how much she was revived by it. She is one of the few real Christians, whom I can number in my parish. She lives quite alone, in a small hovel, on a very scanty provision, confined almost entirely to her seat by weakness and’ distress of body. Yet she is for the most part cheerful, and always resigned and thankful. She enjoys a great measure of the Lord’s countenance, and lives much in communion with him. She is able, on some few occasions, to bear being carried on a chair to church. Some one or other of us generally visit her once a day. Do, my dear sir, remember me in your prayers. In mine, such as they are, I seldom omit making mention of you. What a privilege it is to be allowed to ask blessings on those we love!”

“Mr. Simeon to Mr. Stewart.

“My very, very dear Friend, —

Among the many rich mercies which God vouchsafed to Die in my late excursion, I, cannot but consider the sweet interview which 1 enjoyed with you, as one of the greatest. There

78 JOURNEY TO SCOTLAND. [qHAP. VI.

is an unaccountable union of heart with, or, if I may so express myself, an outgoing of the soul toward some persons, which we feel instantaneously, and we know not why. There is something that irresistibly impresses the mind with affection, and disposes one to communicate one’s ideas with freedom and familiarity; such I felt almost the first instant I saw my dear friend at Moulm. I hope it is an earnest of that everlasting union, which our souls shall enjoy in the regions of light and love. Often have I reflected on the peculiar circumstances, which, contrary to my own intention, brought me to stop under your hospitable roof. It had been Mr. H.’s purpose, and my own, to have oeen with you on Friday to tea, and either have stopped with you that night, or ffone to Blair, as might appear expedient. Our horses were actually saddled and brought to the door, and we were going to mount. But I felt a very unusual langor and fatigue, by means of the long walk we had taken at Dunkeld; and on my proposing to abide there that night, Mr. H. readily acquiesced. Even then we had no idea of spending the Sabbath at Moulin. Our great object was to get to Glasgow by a certain day; and though this was far from being our reason for accepting your invitation to return from Blair, yet the circumstance of our oeing somewhat advanced in our journey, weighed a little in the scale, perhaps as much as one part in twenty. The circumstances of your having the Sacrament, of our being able to enjoy the company of your other visitors, of there beine no service at Blair, and of our having a longer intercourse with yourself, were our principal inducements to return to you. But had not so many circumstances concurred, it is more than probable we should have abode at Blair. It has often brought to my mind that expression of the Evangelist, ’ he must needs go through Samaria.’ Why so? It lay in his way, you will say, from J udea to Galilee; true, but how often had he taken a circuit, going through the towns and villages round about. But the Samaritan woman was there, and for her God designed an especial blessing. What thanks can we ever render to God for those turns in his Providence, which at the time appear insignificant, but afterwards are found to have been big with the most important consequences I It is our privilege to expect those invisible interpositions, if we commit our way to Him, and every instance that comes to our notice, should encourage us to acknowledge Him in all our ways. I am exceedingly comforted, my dear brother, with the account which you give of your soul. O how desirable is it for all, but especially lor ministers, to have their souls deeply and devoutly impressed I What is religion without this T What are duties without this? Alas! a dry, insipid, unsatisfying, unproductive form. I pray God hat what you now experience may only be as the drop before the shower. Surely this is happiness, to taste the love of God, to find delight in his service, and to see that we are in a measure instrumental to .the

CHAT. VI.] JOiniNEY TO SCOTLAND. 70

imparting of this happiness to others, — this I say is a felicity which nothing but heaven can exceed. Often have I implored this blessing upon yourself and upon your sister, (with whose unaffected piety my soul was much refreshed,) and upon your whole family; and I hope, that to my dying hour, my prayers and thanksgivings apon your account shall yet ascend up before God. I hope, too, that you will bear my unworthy name upon your heart, whenever you get within the vail.

“The account you give me of the dear poor woman rejoices my heart. How often does God mamify the exceeding riches of his grace towards objects whom the world looks upon with contempt; and angels esteem it an honor to minister to those who have hardly the necessaries of life I I admire this! I adore God for it; it is to me a delightful proof of his goodness, and of his all-sufficiency to make us happy. Pray, give my fervent love to her. If I could, I should very cheerfully send her something more substantial. I bless God for Mrs. S.’s recovery, and, with Christian respects to her and your sister, remain yours.”