Divine contemplations, and spiritual breathings of Mr. Henry Dorney

LETTERS.

1638. To D. B. N^o 1.

YOur Letter I very gladly received; and 'tis no small delight to me, to see that your eyes are towards Heaven, and your desires to the fear of your Maker. Before I was hopeful, but now I am confident. And being the beautiful Light of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ hath enlightned your Soul, and purified your Conscience from dead works, to serve the living God: seeing 'tis thus, fear not, only be strong. Be thrifty of your time, exact in your course, spiritual in your aim; bearing about an undaunted Triumph in believing. One thing among the rest, not unneedful; I must advise you, that you set your self to pluck up your Spirits, and be of a lively heart, getting what necessary in∣sight into the World you can; that you may the better get within the humours of all people, to un∣derstand the better how to carry your self, in what condition of life soever you shall be in, to your own comfort, and the shunning of unnecessary Reproach or Contempt; but contrarily, Credit and Esteem of all, even of them that are without. The Exer∣cise

of Worldly Wisdom, Policy, Skill, and ut∣most Endeavour must be used, albeit not depended on, nor the Corruptions of the World practised. Something I do the rather write this way, as con∣ceiving some other Course of Life will befall you ere long than at present you are in; yet still keep close to Almighty God: and whereas others in their Course on Earth, and creditable Conversation here, do sacrifice to their Wits, Boldness, Contrivance, and the like; do you endeavour and pray that you may sacrifice to the Will, Wisdom, and Assistance of God in Heaven, made over to you in the Merits of Christ undoubtedly. The Lord be with us, and grant us unearthly Hearts and Conversations, what∣ever may hereafter betide us. There is no Rock like our Rock, no God like our God: to him I commit my self and you, for an everlasting Sup∣port.

1639. To D. B. N^o 2.

HAving such an opportunity, I could not but write you a few Lines: and all that I have to say is; Cast your self upon God in Jesus Christ: Eat his Flesh, and drink his Bloud: Be with him upon the Cross, be with him ascended into Heaven; by the one to be discharged from the Clamours of the Law, and the Guiltiness of Conscience; by the other to triumph in Assurance of Victory over Sin and Sor∣row. This Implanting into the Son is by Faith: this Life of Faith is fed by Meditation of the My∣stery, with Prayer, and attentive Reading and Hear∣ing, with good Conference with experienced Belie∣vers, and Use of the Sacraments. These things I

believe your heart doth ponder; but we are bound to put one another in mind. And next, seek and strive in your Service to be laborious, faithful, dis∣creet; separate not the Service of Christ from the Service of your Master; serve one in the other; strive mightily to temper them well one with the other; and then, what you put your hand unto, do it with all your might, &c.

1646. To B. J. D N^o 3.

I Know you are under great Suffering, and what word of Comfort or Counsel to write to you I know not, only this, that it is of the Lord; as Jo∣nah was not to be angry, you are not to be tortured with Grief. That one, that two Gourds are wi∣thered together: Morality and Reason do plead for Patience and Content, but your interest in the Ma∣ker and Heir of all things may truly argue it much more: He that gave you them at first, has now cal∣led them away. The Giver lives, though the Gift be withdrawn. The Comforter is the same, and the substance, though the Comfort be removed, and the Leaves fallen. Haply your thoughts are, Where are they? Whither gone? At rest, or not? Consi∣der whose eye saw them before they were formed in the Womb; the everlasting Decree had disposed of them before they were committed to your hands: leave the thought of them to the Lord, whose free Love is like a mighty Deep. And, Oh that the Course which the Lord takes to mind us, that the end of all things is at hand, might powerfully dis∣lodge our Hopes, Peace, and Comfort from an Earthly Rest in low transient things, and fix them in

him who is the Rock of Ages; which we are called to do upon every hand: I trust that out-stretched Hand of his will do it; that at length we may know no persons according to the Flesh, nor things neither. Then alone in enjoying the Lord, shall you and I en∣joy our selves, and the reality of every good thing when the shadows flee away. Is not your Father better than ten Sons, and his teaching Rod than their presence, consider it? Enquire his Will, bless his Name, comfort your poor Wife, and do not charge God follishly. Seek God's Face the more, and let your Conversation mount higher, and then your loss will be repayed, and God will shew you his intent in this. This only, as a Fellow-feeler of your Cross, I present unto you, &c.

1648. To B. J. D. N^o 4.

COnsidering mine own weakness, and remembring you are in the same Body; and withall, considering that mutual Communications (by Pen or Speech) is required to help each other, and stir up one another to the relish and practice of Christian Walking, I thought fit (in meer discharge of duty) to represent my present thoughts to you. And that I may de∣clare more distinctly the state of my Soul to you, I pass by the general Complainings and Bewailings which oftentimes arise from pretended religious Complement, or carnal Sloth; to a more particular Account.

I find the Reputation of the World doth much beguile me; especially when I have to do with Men neither grosly wicked, nor strictly good. And I find Intimacy with these Men, and in their Actions

of Indifferency, do plague my Soul with such cold∣ness, driness and guilt, that (methinks) sometimes I part from them, as Tamar from Amnon, full of in∣ward shame and disquiet. Let me at any time go out of God's sight to act things, though indifferent in their nature, yet when Conscience calls for any spiritual duty or discourse, methinks 'tis like the voice that came to Adam in the Cool of the Day. I find also a strange influence upon my heart from the ways of coveting any worldly Advantage. Well was this wickedness called Idolatry; for it doth im∣portunately draw my ear, and draw my eye and heart from the Lord, to admire and covet after vain Enjoyments; and yet I cannot say that to this day I ever wanted any good thing. This I find to be both a deceiving and unprofitable Lust, spoiling the com∣fort of my Soul, and not enriching my Body, nor ever adding one Cubit to my Stature. Nothing doth ever make the thought of any misery miserable to me, but the reflections of a betrayed heart; and they stare upon me, as Delilah did on Sampson when his strength was gone, and the Philistins were upon him; and then my Soul is as weak as Water. But should I go to number up the Deceits that are with∣in me, they are innumerable? only 'tis some ease, now and then, to open the Imposthume, as to God, so also to good Men. I know not how far your sense of the same, or other infirmities may oppress you, but I know you wear about with you the same Nature as I do, though, I hope, more enabled to strive against the Stream of Nature than I am: but whatever strength you have, I am sure it comes from above; and indeed I must needs say, and my heart rejoyceth at the mention, that I am not forsaken in this Conflict; my Redeemer is strong, and mine in∣firmities

are judged already, and shall not afflict me for ever. I am directed to a sure Remedy, Psal. 37. 3, 4, 5. and shall lay it before you (if your disease be mine) viz. to trust in the Lord in well doing only; Delight in the Lord, and commit your way to him: let this Physick have its true work, and the Truth of God is engaged for a Recovery. Some∣times I am (as it were) venturing on such a Resign∣ment as this Trusting, Delighting, and Committing doth signifie; and (methinks) the very Resolution so to do, as a Beam of God's Power and Love, doth rejoyce my heart in hope. Doubtless it is a heaven∣ly Life to give up all our delight, our trust, and commit all our way unto the Lord: and doubtless, that is the way to fight against our Lusts with much advantage, when we are got above them; and in our Resignment to God, have engaged him in the Quarrel. I know the advantage is very great, by some little sparks of it. And I never knew that I got power against one Lust of heart, or evil way, but by being first (as it were) dissolved into the Lord, and then appearing against it in his power. When God and I am made one through Christ, in opposition to my own sins, and am no longer mine own, but his, and my faith acting through this Uni∣on; then I must, yea, and I may say, Doth the strength and snares of Temptation vanish at his appearing; And happy is that Soul that appears in no other strength but his. But while I am writing, my heart doth accuse my Pen, for hinting an Enjoyment be∣yond what I have. I can only say this; something of this I have already tasted, and more I earnestly hope for, as the only Remedy for a weak, captiva∣ted, dismayed heart. I pray, let me hear how it fa∣reth with you; that we may in the Lord, help one

another, and build up one another in the most holy Faith, &c.

1648. To B. D. N^o 5.

THere is no Safety but in God, no Refuge, Rest, or Peace but there; and there it is, and pity it should be elsewhere, that God might still be all in all. We are both in his Arms, shall finish his Work, and not see a day of Vexation longer than the time prefixed us. And in this Confidence we are to do our work, bear our burthens, and not faint. Our Labour will be over, and our Temptations too; Eternal Rest will follow the one, and Incor∣ruption the other. Dear Brother, farewel till next Meeting; whether in this World, or that to come; the Will of our Father be done on us, and in us, &c.

1649. To F. D. N^o 6.

I Hope there is a Power within you that will never leave purging, healing, convincing, teaching, and delivering of you, till you can say, the Powers, the Employments, the Labours of this present World are the Lords and his Christs; that God is all in all to you and in you. Herein lies our Interest, viz. against all unworthy undervaluings of our Interest, goings forth in our own Strength or Wisdom, Carnal Damps of our Zeal, coolings of our Intimacy with God, cour∣tings of the Creature; and so being courted of the Devil in the Creature, till many times our Warmth is gone, our Locks cut, our Strength and Comfort departed together; and then the poor Soul looks

upon his Corruption, and all the Engines of his Back-sliding, as Amnon did on his deflowred Sister; Have her out of my sight. Then the Soul lies as weak as any other; in an equal Line to the Men of this World; but God only, who raiseth the Dead for his free Grace, and eternal Covenant of Love, recovers this loss again, restores health to the heart, and makes the Soul say, I was dead, but am alive. That a Vein of Life, and Beam of Light should run through so many Eclipses, and yet live, and not ut∣terly be destroyed; this is the work of the Lord, and it is marvellous in our eyes. As there is no Cal∣ling in the World that is useful for common Good, but hath its Foundation in the Wisdom, Pity, and Care of God towards his poor Creatures, so I be∣lieve the same of yours: and my desire to God for you is, that you may use your Calling only as under his eye, and in the wisdom and fear of the Lord, &c.

1649. To C. A. D. N^o 7.

YOur friendly and Christian Lines I received, and do with you rejoyce in the happiness of your nearest Relation. The happiness is the greater, in that your Principles do accord, as well as your Affections; which renders your Condition a more lively Type of the Conjugal Interest betwixt Christ and a Believer. You say, your experience tells you it is good to wait on God: do not forget the same experience in other cases. Abound in spiritual Af∣fections to one another as much as you can, and in ingenuous Marriage-Love, and Affections also; but beware of that which is inordinate; remembring that they that marry are to be as if they married not,

1 Cor. 7. 29, &c. It may be you may find new Tem∣ptations in your new Condition, and God teaching you thereby: If so, there is still cause of Thankful∣ness; for God has many ways, in variety of Trials, to teach, to purge, and comfort. I perceive there is that within you which takes little content in high Speculations without Power: I think it is no small happiness to be preserved from the vain unsavoury Profession of the times, consisting more in Phrase of Words, Humane Wit, and Pride, than Power of Reli∣gion. Doubtless, the ancient Path of Sincerity, Hu∣mility, Patience, Love, and Fruits of Thankfulness is the best Path for Saints to travel in; waiting on God for more enlarged hearts, and enlightned eyes, both to know and do his Will with the more inte∣grity. Ah! the Purity and Spiritualness of the Apostles Writings, and the Sermons of Christ! There is no cavelling, jeering; but Bowels of Tenderness, and awful, sweet Reverence in the things of God. Let your thoughts still fix there; associate with the most Tender and Sincere, and you shall escape the destructive Influence of that (seeming religious) loos∣ness and Atheism, which has (I doubt) cankered many a hopeful Professor. As for my own part, I tumble to and fro under Temptations, yet reaping this fruit thereby, to thirst the more after the day of Christ's Appearance, and my Deliverance, &c.

1651. To B. D. N^o 8.

I Have as well by others, as by your own hand, understood how the change of Affairs have layen upon you. The Lord, I trust, will bless the pre∣sent Suffering to your inward Advantage. The less

worldly your Affections were in your Employmen the more I hope the loss is alleviated, and your heart supported. It is good to be industrious, so that the Interest above be as the Oyl to the Wheel of all our Actions. The Lord, in the Interest of his free Love and Presence, is able to weigh down the Scale against never so much appearing trouble: and to that bles∣sed Portion and Security I do heartily commend you.

1652. To B. D. N^o 9.

GOd has been pleased to put us, and continue us long asunder, and we have had our variety of Troubles, Dangers and Temptations; and in regard we can come no nearer each other, let us speak at a distance. By the view I have made of earthly mat∣ters and earthly conditions, I can say with my whole heart, The best Refreshment is vexation of Spirit: and if so, then comes this rebuke; How have I laid out my Money for that which is not Bread? God has delivered me from being a burthen to my Friends, and yet my Body and Soul (Ah, when will it once be!) is not given up as a Sacrifice to him only.

Brother, I perceive so much of the unsearchable pity of the Lord to me, that I know not what to do or say. Oh, that my heart might break into a thou∣sand pieces, and be made up again by the Spirit of Renewing! What a misery is it to desire that might live, which is nailed to the Cross, and cruci∣fied! Oh, for the Newness of the Spirit, to see the new Creature, that old things might pass away from one end of the Soul unto the other. I tremble at the mention of these words, because the Power is of God; and the dark design of the Lust within me

labours to destroy my Interest, ruine my Peace, and make me unserviceable to my God, to whom I am going. Oh, that I could in the power of my dear Saviour, raise my head so high out of the misery that easily besets me, as to peep forth into the fresh Air of a whole Resignment, even of what I have, am, or do expect, unto God through Christ, na∣kedly and unreservedly! You are on my heart be∣fore the Lord, that you may be saved from your self and World, from your fears, comforts and hopes; that the Kingdom of our dear Lord exalt it self exceedingly in your heart. The Lord himself be your Guide; to whom alone I can adventure to surrender you. I am again returning from my Wives Grave, into—to seek mine own, &c.

1652. To D. H. N^o 10.

DEar Sister, I account it my duty to hold up an Intercourse of writing to you, as opportunity and time will permit; as being sensible, in some measure, of the state of your inward Man. My words have no quickning life; the bodily presence of Christ himself could not do it without the Spirit, much less the Pen of a sinful Worm, but I will send you where this Ware is to be sold at a cheap rate, if Complements of Self-preparedness (for I can call it no other) do not hinder, Isa. 55. 1. Buy Wine and Milk without Money: say it over again, without Mo∣ney. What, is this the voice of your Beloved; with∣out price? Is it indeed without price? How hard is this one Lesson, without price? My Guilt can press me down; but can it press him down who bears up Heaven and Earth? Can my weakness hinder me

from lying down? There is nothing more acceptable to him, as for me to lie down upon him; you can never lean too hard upon your well Beloved. No∣thing troubles him, but when you lean from him, Cant. 8. 5. This is true Gospel-venture: Hence comes quickning in God's sweet season of God's ma∣king. How easie, think you, it were for you to come to Christ if you were without spot? But are you not ashamed to let Christ wash you from all your sins? You are loath to trouble him so far, and yet you can never please him better. The greater the work of his Redemption, the greater is his Glo∣ry. This rather wins his heart to you, than render you unpleasing or unwelcome to him; 'Tis his own bewailing Language, Ye will not come to me, &c. If you will look up to the brazen Serpent, you will quickly know Freedom. There is no condition you can be in, but you are well enough, if Christ be with you. That's the reason that neither Water nor Fire, &c. can destroy: he is willing; be you so too. Trust him, and see if any condition whatsoe∣ver comes short of Remedy, where Christ is all in all; all for Pardon, all for Purging, all for Advice, Rest and Satisfaction. In a few days yours and my Vail will be gone, and we shall see (and hear who is gone before) what now we desire to believe. I leave you and my little Child to the teaching and blessing of the Lord, &c.

1653. To S. D. H. N^o 11.

I should be glad to receive a Letter written from your heart; that Jesus Christ was indeed not on∣ly your Portion, but your Joy, and your Companion;

he is willing to be so, if you be willing; that is Go∣spel-Language and Truth. A dear Friend, such an one as he, doth not love Complements, and unwar∣rantable Modesty. See how he takes up Peter, Joh. 13. 8. you may, you ought to be as free and familiar towards him as he is towards you, although with a holy fear and humility. It is a vain device of Satan to think that Holiness, Strength, or Peace can come any other way. I am persuaded, you do think, if some friends you have in the World could do you any good, they would: The same persuasion may much more truly be applied to him that is both able and willing too; only the difficulty is, through pride and darkness, we are, to our own wrong, loath to venture. Let us now and then lift up our hearts for each other, to him who will a few days hence lift up our heads, &c.

1653. To D. H. N^o 12.

GOd has hitherto spun out my worldly Being, and continued Life. My main labour (as fast as I can turn other business and thoughts out of doors) is to seek the Lord by spiritual Enquiry: one hour of close Communion with him is better than a thou∣sand. A little I taste by Glimpses and Glances of that Taste; but, I bless his Name, I thirst for more. Sometimes my Condition is nothing but almost a very Darkness; but my God doth then rouse up a poor dead heart, and enlighten it again by and by. Oh the Riches of that Goodness that doth so often gird us, when we know not he is so near! Such a Saviour who is a living Pillar of Atonement, and his Nature, through Sufferings, the very Seat of Com∣passion

for all that come to God by him: our Lord, our Lord Christ; whose Sufferings were not for his own sake, and from whom a longing Soul was ne∣ver repulsed. But Oh, methinks sometimes the Wonder is too great to be the Lot of such a poor Wretch; but a better thought again tells me that this is the very differencing mark of Gospel-faith, not to come with a full hand of Righteousness, and flesh∣contented Preparedness; but with a hand and heart fully guilty, through the Flesh, of all manner of En∣mity and Contradiction against the Spirit and Grace of Christ, and lay such a heart and hand before him, and beg his help to cure that Enmity, and stop the mouth of that Contradiction, and cause the poor Soul by believing, to triumph singly in his Conquest; which doth then most singly appear to the eye of Faith, when a sick Soul lays the whole weight of his Diseases upon Christ, and not touch the bearing of the Guilt of one of them, nor endeavour to ease the Shoulder of Christ by one of his fingers. Christ neither needs nor desires such help at a Sinner's hand: His work is to tread the Wine-press alone; thine and mine (dear Sister) is only to believe, and see his Salvation. Let us not rashly or impatiently put our hand to the Ark, as Uzza did; but leave him the whole honour of his own Cross: only wait humbly and believingly in the use of Prayer, and pondering the Scriptures; for there the Spirit appears, to form the Soul into a safe and Gospel-rest, and create the Image of Christ, and will renew by degrees, accor∣ding to the measure of his Grace, such a Soul.

1653. To S. D. H. N^o 13.

YOur long, large, and savoury Letter I received; I discern your thirst in those Lines, you are not alone in that Agony. You know that Thirst is a rest∣less want of refreshing Liquor; and you know the Pro∣mise calls them blessed, although as yet Satisfaction be not given. If a restless desire be a Blessing, why should not God have the honour of that Dispensation? Al∣though the refreshing presence of Christ our Bride∣groom have not yet entred the Chambers of your sensible Enjoyment, yet Blessed are they that thirst for, &c. Your whole Letter doth argue Thirst, and there∣fore you are truly blessed, and therefore you shall be satisfied. I could write many complaining Lines; yea, I can never complain too much of my vile sinful Bo∣dy and Mind, but in doing that, I must not blemish the free Grace of God in Christ; yea, I am sorry I have done it too much wrong hitherto. Devils are against it, Flesh and Blood are against it; and shall I do so too? Let me embrace it rather; never mourning from God, but mourning towards him, in hope, above hope. Study that word, Yield not to weariness, nor faintness in mind at no hand; through faith and patience you shall inherit it, as well as the rest of Abraham's Daughters before you. Was not Christ in an Agony? Did not he thirst? Was not even he straitned? And must not you be conformable? I say again; Rejoyce in it, and hold the Hem of his Garment, and you will find by and by the vertue come forth: he is not deaf, he cannot deny himself; he does hear, and the Vision will speak. You do well to pump the Wells of Salvati∣on, the Scriptures. The Night will not long last, the Day is coming, the Prince of this World is judg∣ed,

and thy God reigneth. I shall one day (I doubt not) with thee sing the Song of the Lamb, beyond sin, fear and sorrow. I leave thee to his care and love, which is far beyond mine. I must end, but I leave you to him whose words are Life indeed. Farewel in the Bowels of Christ, to whom I commit you, &c.

1653. To D. H. N^o 14.

THe Conveniency of this Opportunity provoketh me to write to you by this Bearer, who has promised to see my Child. I desire that as she grows in capacity, you would be dropping in somewhat of spiritual things for her tender thoughts to feed upon. Though I cannot at this distance see your face, yet I know your Temptations in some part, and your De∣liverance; which will in due time appear. 'Tis good to be carried about, and disposed by the hand of the Lord: 'tis a blessed thing, and will one day appear so, to rejoyce in the pleasure of the Lord, let him do with a poor Creature what he will, so he make it more like himself, by unselfing you from carnal desires, and carnal discontents and fears, and transplanting you into the power and joy of believ∣ing; accounting really the offer of eternal kindness in Christ more Glory, than any earthly dying comfort: and certainly where the Comforts here can comfort but little, the Crosses here can cross but little; and shortly farewel both. Let your heart plod much on the free Covenant of Grace in Christ, by Prayer and Meditation; and let your sins come into the same Room with you, while you are on that En∣quiry. When I am at a dead lift, then sometimes the Spirit of God takes me up (as it were) into the

Arms of that Covenant which he made with Christ concerning me, and whosoever is not a wilful Un∣believer. And the very glance of that Salvation wrought by the Lord, concerning which I am only to believe, sets me again upon my feet. I have no other task but to be willing in truth to receive it, and I shall have it: and if so, then you and I shall be sure never to want any one good thing. Evil (as Evil from the Lord) cannot befall us. You will then see the favour of God to you in earthly seem∣ing Frowns. No such favour as to be dead to sen∣sible Comforts, and as a Stranger to earthly carnal Contents, though this be tedious to Flesh and Blood; yet let it more appear that our Rest is not in these things, but in the ever-living God: he is your Teacher, and I leave you to him.

1653. To J. H. N^o 15.

I Have received your Letter, and return you thanks for your love. Should I give you a Draft of my Soul, it would pity you to see it: did not the Mer∣cy of God prevent, you would find me in the four last Vices mentioned in Rom. 1. but blessed be the Lord, that though there be a Law in my Members warring and tormenting, I have in the Lord a little strength, and do sometimes view deliverance. I have too long had too much content in a Carnal Walking with God, and have been satisfied too much in a Carnal Appearance that way. There is a way to live with God in the World, but it is of his own making; no visible or sensible thing can con∣tribute any thing to it: and yet I cannot die to these vain helps. I shall never understand the word (All)

noted in Matth. 22. 37. till the power of the Most High doth bear it in. Ah, when will it once be! Certainly that Grace will one day be very glorious, that hath attended a poor distressed heart, through the uncomfortable sights, and abundant frailties of this corrupt mortal condition. One pure, serious, true, long breathed desire of Christ's appearing gives some deliverance. Oh the Glory of that day, when the real appearing shall be, and all filthy Garments removed, and every filthy smell be for ever remo∣ved also! Let us be found among those that wait for Redemption, and wait waking. Truly Brother, we cannot word out one to another, what is the State, Duties, and Privileges of an Interest in a new Life, and hope of Glory. The best means, the best words; yea, the Scriptures (though not so in themselves) are even deceiving to a deceived carnal heart. Such a heart will turn the most spiritual things into Flesh, and so feed upon them to satisfie carnal Fancy. Oh that you and I could start up from fleshly Consulta∣tion, and listen quietly, leisurely, and yet greedily, and obediently to the meer dictate of the blessed Spi∣rit in his Word. Your opportunity and mine of honouring God in the World is very far spent alrea∣dy. I desire that you be not only for God in sea∣son, but out of season also. Dear Brother, I thought fit to give you a touch of what my poor heart desires to be wrestling in: I know you mind the same thing; go on therein, and prosper; there is no other way of Peace but this. I am rude; but I had rather write my heart, than my invention. Well Brother, I thank you for your good wishes to my poor Child; I trust the Lord will vouchsafe her truth of Grace, and shed abroad his Mercy and Love into her heart, and make it appear as her tender years will bear

and manifest the same. Remember me to my Sister, your Wife, whom I have reason also to honour, for the goodness of God to her, and to you, I trust, in her. I should rejoyce to hear that some others of yours and my poor Friends had the Lord alone for their whole desire and portion: I would rather re∣member such in my Prayers, than in my Letter. Re∣member my love to your Sister D. who is, I am much assured, more precious in God's eye than in her own. I leave all News to the Bearer, and com∣mend the Remembrance of you to the Lord, and re∣main, &c.

1654. To S. D. H. N^o 16.

YOu see this state here is wavering, unsetled, moving to and fro. 'Tis a wondrous thing to see how the Lord is pleased to raise up one Wave of disquiet after another, to molest the publick Peace, and exercise the pains and patience of his people. It is no Misery, but a Privilege to one that is chosen hence, to be emptied from Vessel to Vessel; and indeed, I scarce know a greater sign of Christ's Con∣jugal Love, than by his Providence to render all other things and Conditions here to be unlovely and undesirable: for then the Affections have no where else to centre but in Christ; and that makes them go out strong that way. Albeit my condition speaks much visible Uncertainty, as to this outward Man, yet I find a mighty War within me, against a free and clear Closing with the certain Riches of Glory which is in Christ, in which notwithstanding, I trust I have an Interest, and have recieved some witness thereof, There is a secret joy in the inward

part of my Soul, and Refreshment at the Remem∣brance of the Promises of the God of Truth, my Rock. Sometimes Hope and Desire brings me near to Christ, and he to me. 'Tis an admirable thing to think how a Soul can at the same time be covered over with its Guilt, and yet be freed, and triumph over the same, as removed in Christ, truly, perfect∣ly, and for ever: yet this is the Golpel-Doctrine and Experience. A Body diseased through Sin, yet a Mind towards the Brazen Serpent, a flying to the Horns of the Altar; and that does the work. Oh the Ju∣stification through the means of believing (and only plain-hearted believing) is a strange thing, yet not at all difficult where the Anoynting teaches, and the Soul be made free by the Spirit from Carnal Quid∣dities and Complements; as the poor believing Wo∣man was, who prest to touch the Hem of Christ's Garment, without IFS and ANDS. The Lord di∣rect all your Paths, and make you fruitful in Holi∣ness through believing, and fear no evil. Fare you well in the Lord for ever.

1654. To S. D. H. N^o 17.

MY Remembrance of you in my heart does not, neither ought to bear proportion to my wri∣ting. I have reason to esteem you an Heir of Bles∣sing, and I would gladly, when I hear you own be∣lievingly and thrivingly the God of your Mer∣cies; and rejoyce in your joy, as a Member of the same Body of Christ with you. Be eyeing what the Redeemer has done, what the vertue of his Sacri∣fice is; not what difficult design he attempted, un∣less it be to honour him the more, who has over∣come

all that we can suppose to have most difficulty in it. I think it is a matchless Mercy to let our sins of all sorts and aggravations be cast on his Cross, with a humble Resignment to him; waiting for Sal∣vation and Strength, as a penitent Sinner's Portion through Faith. The Lord be with you, in whom I rest, &c.

1654. To J. F. N^o 18.

MY dear Friend, I understand by what I hear, that you are like to stay some time in Eng∣land, whilst I am detained here; and in regard I know your main desire is, to serve Jesus Christ in the simplicity of the Gospel, I desire the place of your abode, and the people you labour amongst may be adapted to such a savoury design. I do somewhat doubt that if you are persuaded to some populous Ci∣ty, you will be troubled with itching Ears, and find some Temptations more vigorous than in a more private Auditory. Yet I will not disswade you from what the Call of God doth most apparently incline you to; but do desire you may so lanch forth, that the Room of those famous Worthies who are swept away may be supplied, and the Word of Reconcilia∣tion held forth, till the Mystery of God be finished. And therefore act with all your might whilst the day lasts, and remember the distracted Condition of your warfaring Friends. Beware of discourage∣ments; your work is excellent, your labour short, your infirmities undertaken by Christ, and your Temptations and the Tempter also judged. Yours is a Warfare as well as mine, blessed be the Captain of our Salvation, through whose Blood alone is hope

of Conquest. And thus, commending you to the Lord, &c.

1655. To S. D. H. N^o 19.

I Trust you find the Word of God faithful, and creating faithfulness also (in the Seed thereof) in your heart. I think this is a true Maxim, One de∣liberate unfeigned desire of perfect Righteousness in Christ is the very fruit of the perfect Righteousness of Christ: For who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean, but he alone, by his creating Power and Love? Nourish Faith tenderly and humbly; try the Lord's Will, and your own heart; prize that Faith which puts forward all Grace, which takes away discouragement from Mortification, and makes it as the Gate of Heaven, and Hope of Glory; for the Apostle found it so, and pleads it just so to us, Rom. 6. 5, 6, 7, 8, &c. You have a good Guide; give him the honour solely, to order your heart and way; his voice is heard in the Scripture. Believe not your own heart, or reason against the naked word of Truth. In Cases of Scruple, or discouragement of any sort, give your self the same Counsel, as by the Scriptures you would give to another person in the same Case. The work of Faith is not to make sin no sin; but because of sin, to bring the Soul to the Redeemer; that the more sin it sees, it may the more abhor it, and triumph the more, in that Grace doth super-abound through a Mediator. And here lies the Mystery of Faith; the Lord himself has it, and you and I shall say we have enough.

1655. To D. H. N^o 20.

SInce God made your heart pant after that World, in which dwells Immortality and Righteous∣ness, did you ever (upon good Grounds) judge any earthly Friend a certain Comfort? If so, then has God, by removing your Sister, and now by remo∣ving your Father, witnessed the contrary. If you apprehended them as uncertain, then why are they not sufficiently repayed in the fatherly respect of an unchangeable God? Is it good to be angry with the Lord? Do not study to be more sour and melancho∣ly; but how to be more holy, self-denying, and chearful, on the account of a freely tendered Cove∣nant; rejoycing that shortly you shall take your Journey, and go visit your Father, your Sister, &c. and all the Saints since the beginning. Never study how to dishonour the nature of the Gospel, by a sul∣len carnal pleading of Self-unworthiness. The truth is, Self is not worthy to plead, but Christ is wor∣thy to be loved and believed; and that's enough. If he will love me, heal me, purge me, save me, con∣vince me, accept me freely, why should I be offen∣ded at it; and say, he cannot mean as the Gospel speaks? My sullen heart is never broke, till Almigh∣ty Convincement from God break my heart to powder; till that time I play with Melancholy, un∣der a kind of vexing delight. I trust God will teach you some good Lesson by this Visitation, that the knowledge of God in Christ, and the knowledge of your heart may be wisely taken in. I earnestly desire this, that all your thoughts be brought over to a sub∣jection to the good pleasure of God with delight, viz. in that good pleasure of his, and be thankful for that; yet

you have an opportunity to honour him, by saying and thinking all his ways are Mercy and Truth. Though he take to himself your nearest Friends, you do them so much right, as to rejoyce that they reign; though you mourn after your Beloved, and long to leave your self, that you may love him the better. I leave you to him, who can and will do more in his love and pity, than I or any Friend can do. Rejoyce in hope, lift up your head, the days of your Lamentation is almost ended. I remain yours in the fellow-feeling of the same burthen, &c.

1655. To A. C. N^o 21.

I Enjoy my health, through the goodness of God, as yet. My Soul has many dry and sapless Sea∣sons, many drowsie and fainty Qualms, through the deceipt of heart that lies rooted within; but yet the Lord cries ever and anon in my ear, I am God, and I change not; therefore thou art not consumed. I find it desperately dangerous to set my Reason and Sense in dispute with that which Faith only should take up, viz. Reconcilement upon free Terms. If there be any Sinfulness, or any Aggravation of Sin, which seems to except it self from the Remedy of Christ's Atonement, then certainly the Eye of Faith takes not up its Mark as it should do. If there be any Weak∣ness and Darkness, and the Soul think to get over it without a humble Resignation of the Case to Christ for help, it will find the Cure come badly on. A heart which would not have a liberty for sinning, can never engage in a free-hearted Adventure on Christ too far for Pardon and Strength. Christ ne∣ver refused any one Sinner that came to him on

Earth, unless it were the mocking, treacherous, and spightful Pharisees? and therefore I am bound to believe he hears and accepts every unfeigned Re∣quest, though hardness and darkness do afflict. So that I am (with my lamenting after him) to rejoyce also that he is himself the Corner-stone of that work in my heart that yearns after him in a dry Land. I recommend you to the Lord, and rest, &c.

1655. To A. C. N^o 22.

I Thought good to send you a few Lines, which while I am writing, serves instead of a Confe∣rence; there only wants your Answer to every Sen∣tence, and the mutual refreshing of your Voice. I can at a distance guess at your thoughts; I can also take Refreshment in this, that the Arm of the Lord, seen by you, or unseen, yet it holds you, teacheth you, and is always near you. We may not think the unchangeable God doth change as oft as we use to change. Not every Cloud, nor all the Clouds of the Sky are able to hinder the Course of the Sun, because the Sun is above them; and so is the Covenant of our Peace above our Darkness and Weakness. A small matter (if Seasons of Weak∣ness and Dulness may be called so) is enough, when Unbelief is cherished, to make as much mischief in the Soul, as a Woolf among a Flock of Sheep. In∣deed every Sin is hateful in the sight of God, and a sluggish heart (that is rather prone continually to all that is evil, inwardly and outwardly, than inclined to good) is grievous to the Spirit of God. But this is perpetually the Refuge; that God accounts the Sinfulness of his People their Sickness, not their

State; and to purge and cure them, he useth some∣times one Means, and sometimes another; witness, Psal. 89. 31, 32, 33, 34. and Isa. 27. 8, 9. But still the Covenant, being wholly of his Contrivement, stands fixed in Heaven; and Jesus Christ, who has both your Nature, as much as if your self were there, and God's Nature too in one Person; to preserve that Covenant in your stead for your good. There is no creature-goodness of any sort soever that pre∣fers any person to have an Interest in that Covenant, because he sheweth Mercy to whom he will. And there is nothing essentially needful to give any one a Right to apply this Covenant, but a sense of ne∣cessity, and a willingness to accept it, and be sa∣ved by it only. As wicked people fancy the way to Heaven so as that they think they can obtain it, and yet desire still to keep their sins in their Bosoms, and cannot hear of parting with them; so many gra∣cious people, though beloved of God, cannot ima∣gine that Eternal Life, being a Blessing of that great∣ness, can be got so easie as by believing only. Or if they grant it is to be had only by Believing, yet they do so much look upon personal Qualifications, by which to try their Faith, that unless it be to such and such a degree, they think they have not Faith. And when they have got the degree they desire, they are as much to seek as before. And all is because God has left no such Qualifications as things that shall give rest to the Soul, for they are but the Garments of Faith. That Soul that is willing Christ should both save him and purge him, shall be saved and purged: and God cannot but account him clean from condemning Guilt. I hope you live in the Study and Consolation of these glad Tidings of Gospel-Peace. I trust also that God has and doth sanctifie

all his Dispensations to your heart, that you may be chearful in believing, and fruitful in Holiness, as one who is taught of the Lord: and thus commending you to the Lord, your Rock, I rest yours in Truth and Love, &c.

1655. To B. D. N^o 23.

I Hear that the same hand of a good God that car∣ried you forth hath brought you home, to visit the Habitations of some Friends, and view the Mo∣numents of others deceased; amongst which our Pa∣rents, and Sister, and Grandmother of refreshful Memory. How God has dealt with you in that Wilderness of Pits and Snares from whence you came, I know not; but I hope the Prayers of those deceased, in the hand of a living Christ, are at this Hour pleading for you. The God of all Power preach Freedom of Resignment unto him into your heart. I wish there may be more of pure Commu∣nion with God in your heart, than my feeble Soul can reach unto. 'Tis rich Bounty from God, if I have never so little truth of desire towards him. But I may mourn out all my moisture, that my hard heart cannot come fully away to him. Oh, for a broken believing heart, the Merchandize there∣of is better than the Merchandize of Silver, &c. Such as have listed themselves into that spiritual War∣fare, there is no fear of miscarrying, while they keep to their Colours, and are given up to the Lamb's Conduct.

1655. To C. A. D. N^o 24.

YOurs of the 25^th of September last I received, and do thank you for your Christian Love and Tenderness therein exprest, and for the Heads of that searching, refreshing Sermon; for indeed, no∣thing can be refreshing, but what is searching and convincing. The Vertue and the Excellency of Go∣spel-Remedies can never be welcome, nor do their work, till they be permitted to search and over∣come; that Truth may break forth to Victory, and there may be healing without Putrefaction at the bottom. And when a poor Soul cannot order his own Distempers, yet then to consent to, and approve of the Soveraignty of the Medicine, and Skill of the Physician. Could I come up to that Truth, Faith, and Resignment, I should then more magnifie that Grace, and be more fruitfully refreshed in the Sal∣vation of God. There is a pure Releif in the Go∣spel, conveyable only by the Arm, the Spirit of the Lord; but it is oftentimes, in a great measure, spoiled and defiled in a carnal way of Endeavour to receive it. To entertain spiritual Truths in the Spirit, and to be subjected to their Law, and formed over into their Mould, Complexion and Constitution; this I think were Religion indeed. For my own part, I view these things at such a distance, that sometimes I even doubt whether there be any more than Notion left; or if more, what it is that holds up any Connexion betwixt my confused heart and that spiritual Interest. I am carried up and down by him as a lighted Candle in a windy place, and its Flame ever ready almost to flee from the Wick, were it not preserved by the Hollow of his Hand: his Discipline I cannot want

and live. And it is refreshment to me that your heart is under a constant pursuit of that Mark, of the Prize of the high Calling. Draw Water still from the Fountain as much as you can. Be a Stran∣ger to all Instruments, Means and Helps, while you use them. Know none but God, taste none but him in all the Earth; and remember the gauled Feet of your Fellow-travellers. I received a Letter from Mr. Cr. I pray return the Inclosed to him; his Ad∣vice is very savoury. I think indeed, Christ best approves of a holy Latitude for Affection and Com∣munion amongst his Members.

1656. To C. A. D. N^o 25.

DEar and Christian Friend, yours I received, and am glad that both your self and Wife are in health: I desire in this respect to offer up my share of Praise with you, and to rejoyce for you, that you have a good Will to be trudging forwards. Whether your pace be swift or slow, be sure to fix your eyes as right as you can; and the eye will af∣fect the heart, and give Wings for motion. You desire to be naturalized to the whole Will of our heavenly Father; I bless the Lord, I desire the same: and that we may both gain our desires, let us in the Name of the Lord, dig after the Understanding of the Mystery of the Father and the Son, and ponder over and over the Interest which God hath designed the Elect in his only Son, and he in them; and how it is brought about through his Incarnation, and Operation of the Spirit of Holiness; who has made the fruits of his Life, and Death, and Resurrection really ours; so that we may say each of us by Faith,

I am crucified, I am risen with Christ; and all the loveliness that is in him, we may with trembling and great joy say, it is our own; because himself is ours: and that will make his Yoke easie, his Will desirable, his Work profitable, and spiritually na∣tural to us. I think it would help much to pray, meditate, view, and cast up Accounts often, to watch the Phisiognomy of our Consciences, to make often Appeals to the Mediator, and to the Father through him; and so to keep the Work moving upon the Wheels; and we shall at length get to that blessed Country where Righteousness dwelleth. At thy right hand, saith David, there is fulness, &c.

1656. To A. M. C. N^o 26.

I Find in some of my Friends a savoury Taste of Grace, which in this unsavoury Age is no small Mercy. I hope the Mercy of the Lord to your Fa∣ther will descend upon all his Off-spring. He or she is happy that can keep his Garments clean, and heart established in the truth and power of Grace, amongst so much prophaneness on the one hand, and giddy, wild, and loose way of Profession on the other hand; some professing Impiety, and others professing a vain Attainment of some Excellency, besides the native Current of the Scriptures, and pure Christianity. The Lord, I trust, will preserve you from the Tempter. I lament the Affliction of my Unkle and Aunt, &c.

1657. To D. H. N^o 27.

BE not weary of believing, of praying, of ho∣ping, of contending, of rejoycing. Your Inte∣rest cannot be broken from Christ by sickness, by disappointments, nor by sins. Read the latter end of the 4^th and 7^th Chapter of the Romans, and the rest also of that Book; and bless God for the My∣stery of his Truth, Pity, Love and Condescention therein. Be above Friends, Fears, Guilt, and Droop∣ing, in the Name of Jesus Christ; having through his Grace, given up your Name to him: Honour him by accepting him as joyfully as he gives himself. Then praise him most when you think you have least reason, and baffle that ugly thing Unbelief by that Hope and Faith which is commended most by Jesus Christ, when it seems most unreasonable to lowring, faint-hearted, and sick Flesh and Blood. What Sickness so large as a trembling Ague. Re∣member, 2 Tim. 1. 6, 7. &c.

1657. To S. D. H. N^o 28.

ALthough the Ordinances are most gloriously powerful, yet I find a bad time with my heart since I came hither; but I expect some Lesson from God out of it. The Old Man must be cut in pieces ere it will die; it will not lift up one finger to de∣stroy it self, 'tis only Foreign Aid that doth the work: and how to leave all selfish Endeavours, and by Faith to be yielded up to the in-working power of the Spirit of Christ, there is the difficulty. Faith receives all, and doth nothing; and yet the Travel

of a Christian is called the Fight of Faith. It fights in beholding the Salvation of God, it fights in leav∣ing every burthen on Christ; yea, it then conquers when it is able to subject the Consequence of Guilt, and Endeavours of Renewing, to the only Righte∣ousness of Christ, and the Vertue and Spirit of his Cross and Resurrection. Faith is a strong Grace, and free Grace a strange Mystery: 'Tis an Herb that grows where nothing else can grow, it must be alone, it abhors all manner of Aid that Flesh and Blood can give, it undoes a poor Creature in a saving manner: When a poor sinner gets liberty to be most sensibly vile and weak, then Grace triumphs most. Let your Travel be spent in this Enquiry and Subjection to Gospel-method, that Jesus Christ may be all in every thing that you are concerned in, &c.

1657. To B. D. N^o 29.

I Find it very unwholsome to the Soul to give way to discouragement or faintness. The Soul goes down the Wind apace, when it says, my hope is lost, I shall one day fall by the hand of the Enemy. Let perfect Resignment be your labour every day, how difficult soever it seems to be; God is able to make your Bow abide in strength, though the Ar∣chers from the Enemies Camp may daily molest you. In the Name of Christ beg the Father of Bles∣sing to cause you to inherit Jacob's Blessing, till at last you arrive upon the everlasting Hills. Oh, bles∣sed be the God of the unchangeable Covenant, and blessed be the Author and Finisher of our Faith. I have an incessant Turmoil with my evil heart; but am, I trust, marching towards Deliverance. God

has not as yet turned aside my Prayer, nor his Mercy from me: I am under his Disci∣pline, attending Judgment will be brought forth to Victory, and Weakness unto Strength, Light and Truth. Let us not be contented with small degrees of the new Creature, but thankful for the least; and yet thirst day and night for more re∣newing Light and Transformation. Remember you are a Soldier, and shall be more than a Conqueror, through him who loveth you. You are a Traveller, and shall pass from strength to strength, till you appear before God in Sion. I perceive you have thoughts about some alteration of your Condition: and Oh that the same Guide which directed Abraham's Ser∣vant in the behalf of Isaac, may go before you. I should rejoyce more that you were yoaked with a gracious Mate, than with the richest Estate in Bri∣tain, where the Pearl of Grace is wanting. I desire to remember you before the Lord. Be much in Prayer, as I doubt not but you are; and live above your self, and above the World in that Transaction. Grace and Wisdom, and a Religious Stock are ex∣cellent Jewels, though cloathed in a mean Dress, Prov. 31. I say no more, but the Lord who is your Refuge, be your Counsellor. And as you mind me of our spiritual Bond, so I desire still to be mind∣ful of it; and that we both may incessantly pray for each other. Remember me to Brother Daniel in the Bowels of Jesus Christ. Let him and you com∣fort and strengthen one another in the Lord, to whom I commend you; remaining yours on the best account, &c.

1657. To D. H. N^o 30.

COuld I be more in the Spirit, I could then write with more freedom: but this I know, that if I and you have our faces towarn Sion, we shall be brought thither at length. Our great work is to cease from our selves, that the Spirit of Jesus Christ our Lord might have liberty to work in us, and for us. I know no such Door to the Mediator as to be resigned over to him, and to be yielded up to the Salvation and Power of Free Grace: 'tis the only wholsome Food and Physick of a Sinner. When the Soul is widened by Resignation to him, and Self-ab∣horrency, then his naked Redemption is sweet, wel∣come, and a Soul-satisfying Remedy. I oft see a glimmering of this, but my eye is weak; yet such glimmerings tell me, that there, and there only lies the First-fruits, and hope of Glory. I had rather see God do a little in me, and for me, than do much my self; for God's Little is infinite, and my Much is nothing in his sight, for me to be accepted there∣by. Therefore is Faith the only Key of all spiritual Treasure which is hid in Christ, and in him only. And by this going out of our selves to him, we are made his; and himself, and his Treasures of Par∣don, Righteousness, Wisdom, and Perfection is made ours. Venture your Prayers upon him, though they seem to be cast away, after many days they will return. You can hardly find that ever Christ reproved his Disciples for any thing but Unbelief, or little Faith; or for not suffering Infants or others to come to him. Let all these things teach you and I what is our chief Duty. I leave you to the Lord, remaining yours in truth and love, &c.

1658. To B. D. N^o 31.

YOur two last Letters have much refreshed me, because I perceive it is not the Complement of Invention, but the heart-raising Spirit of God has been favourable to you. Be craving still, be thankful still, believe through the Clouds. God has thus appeared, that he may teach you how to live on him when he appears less to Sense: you are Heir always to the same Joy, and infinitely more when under the saddest hours. Expect Trials for every Grace, especially for Faith; Winter follows Summer, but the end will be Victo∣ry and Peace; of which you have had, I perceive, a Taste. Covet Christ's Image insatiably, and to be at his dispose universally; and let us bless his Name night and day. I want a heart to bless God enough for his goodness to us; the day hastens in which it will be done perfectly. I am in health of Body labouring under the shameful load of an evil heart; yet in hope of Victory, through him who liveth for ever, to make Intercession for them who desire to come to God through him only. Amongst all business, pub∣lick or private, it is good for you and I to be watch∣ful, to keep a constant motion upwards: constant Tenderness is a rich Treasury. Grace is that incom∣parable Endowment, enough to put a lustre upon every other Requisite. What Alliance is greater than to be allied in the Communion of the Spirit. I perceive God hath favoured you with an Afflicti∣on, I hope you shall not go without the Blessing of it. Be more importunate for a Blessing, than anxious about the Loss, or troubling your thoughts about Persons or Instruments, or about future Events; but commit your self and Estate, Body and Soul to

God, as unto a faithful Creator, and rejoyce in the hope of a better Resurrection, and groan for nothing but the Body of Sin, till it is groaned out of doors.

1658. To S. D. H. N^o 32.

I Am glad to see you strive to get up the Hill, and do take the right way. Go on and prosper, he is near who justifieth you: Though he stands (as it were) behind the Wall, he hears your Request, and all your desire is before him: he himself has under∣took the whole. Light is sown for you, the Har∣vest is coming: Lift up your Head, your Redem∣ption is sure, and your Waters shall not fail. You can never lay too much burthen on Christ; he bears up the Pillars of the Earth, and has already born your burthen: the work is over with him, and shall be over with you too shortly. Yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. You are not your own Workmanship, but his: he has lifted up his hand to Heaven, and sworn, that Blessing, he will bless you, and shortly tread Satan and every Cor∣ruption under your feet. Cling about him, he will not shake you off; your Prayers are heard, your Person is accepted. Be not weary, everlasting Arms are under you, the Battel you are in will prosper. The greatness of his Power is not to amaze you, but to support you; his Righteousness is to justifie you, that you may not fear your Judge, but reverence and love him who has washed you in his own blood: and the business is done already, and now there is no revoking of it. The more difficulties do appear, the more you are to triumph in him who overcame by the Blood of his Cross, and will not leave you

shelterless: he can teach you better than I, I leave you to him. I perceive by your Letter that my dear friend, R. M. is dead; or rather now I confi∣dently believe, perfectly alive, beyond Sin and Toil. I know you are not wanting towards that poor Child; take her to Heaven as much as you can along with you. Let us pray one for another, and we shall not seek that blessed face of his in vain. I might write much of mine own leanness and unworthiness, and I would I could be more sensible of it, so as to lay my starved Limbs on that free, heart-reviving, heart-renewing Covenant of Grace, confirmed in the Person of a crucified and risen Redeemer, the Foun∣tain of Acceptation, Pardon, Life, and Health: In his hands I desire to leave you, and remain, &c.

1658. To S. D. H. N^o 33.

I Thought good to send you a Line or two. I am my self, through the goodness of God, in health, and in hope of greater things to the Inner Man than I can yet attain. My Life is a Warfare in all Re∣spects; O, blessed be the Lord that is never weary of such a defiled Lump, but holds my Soul in some life to this day, with expectation that he will never leave, till the Wilderness be made a fruitful Field, and the Old Man be utterly destroyed; for strong is he who hath promised, and there shall be a performance to the patient attending on his Word. God doth so order the bringing about of our eternal Rest, that when he has lifted us over all the Mountains and Val∣leys of this present Pilgrimage, he may at length be admired in them that believe; and give matter of eternal Praise, when we shall look back, and see

how we have escaped the devouring Floods; and by his hand, behold all the present spiritual Enemies lie dead for ever. The Weary shall be refreshed, the longing Soul satisfied, the Captive delivered, and the Scattered be yet gathered, and return to Zion. The Zeal of a faithful and gracious God, and our Redeemer will accomplish this. Be things how they will, yet we are not allowed to say, Our Wound is incurable; but rather say, Salvation is of God, and he will be surpassingly wonderful to them that wait on him. What though the Fig-Tree do not blossom, yet God cannot alter the Word that is gone out of his Mouth; Fear not, for I have redeem∣ed thee, Isa. 43. 1, &c. Thou art mine, to revive the spirit of the humble, Isa. 57. 15. He delights to dwell among broken Bones, as his dwelling place; that the Mourners may sing away their grief in God their Saviour. There I leave you; and commending you to the Lord, I rest, &c.

1658. To D. H. N^o 34.

SUch is our bodily condition, that we cannot make up these distances, without the intervening of Letters or Friends; but that Communion which, I trust, we have mutually (though under much dark∣ness) with the Father and the Son, by the Spirit of Grace, needs no such helps. I trust, our Prayers meet at a shorter Cut, and that we strive together in the same Faith of the Gospel. It may be you find you have much to do to keep your head above wa∣ter, I find the same; I bear about the same Body of Death, and find the same Contradiction in my corrupt and confused Nature. One Christian seems

to out-run another, till God reveal the mischievous Hell that dwells in our Flesh. Then Paul himself will cry out, O wretched man that I am: and Isaiah, that Evangelical Prophet, be forced to say, All our Righteousness is as filthy Rags. What are our poor glimmerings to the brightness of the Sun of Righte∣ousness? Were there not an equal Relief in the Me∣diator for the youngest and weakest of the Flock, as well as for them who have long travelled in the Profession of Godliness, the Accoutrements of the most experienced Christians would shrivle up, and wither away; and leave nothing behind in the Soul, but such an Out-cry as those, Who shall dwell with ever∣lasting Burnings: but he that dwells in the burning Bush keeps it from consuming. 'Twas only the Like∣ness of the Son of Man that made the three Chil∣dren in Daniel, walk up and down in the Fire, and yet safe from burning. I will be with you, saith God, in the Fire and Water: his Name is Emanuel, God with us: His Covenant is free, the Purpose of Grace wonderful; his good Will ariseth only from him∣self, and will not; cannot change; and therefore the Sons of Jacob are not consumed. We little think oft∣times (in our fear and discouragement) how far our weak Prayers reach; they are like an Arrow gone out of our sight, and we (many times) think them lost and forgot; and consider not that every dry Groan and watery Tear is put into the Bottle, and winds up through the ascending vertue of the Me∣diation of him who is one with the Father, to the Throne of Acceptation. Let us comfort one ano∣ther in this hope, that we may labour, and travel hard, but not faint by the way. I remain yours in the highest Bond, &c.

1658. To S. H. N^o 35.

I Am much refreshed that the Lord doth so favou∣rably deal with your heart. 'Tis the best News you can write me of your particular, to hear that you are toyling with a bad heart, and hurried to and again by one Wave after another. This may not be accounted bad News, because the straitness of the way to Life consists in such a Warfare. 'Tis good News to hear that a poor Creature, that is not able of her self to think one good thought, should ear∣nestly desire to be rid of all sin; and that she might own the Holiness of God's Nature against all Pollu∣tion. The Thirsty shall be filled; that's good News, Matth. 5. 6. Always keep these two Supports rea∣dy, viz. God is both able, and willing to perfect his work in you to the end. Whatever your Fight be, let your Weapons be Prayer and Faith, and you shall get the day. I leave you to the Lord, and rest, &c.

1658. To B. D. N^o 36.

I received the sad News of my deceased Sister; blessed be the Name of him who was dead, and is alive, and will shortly cause the Dead to come forth: that will be a blessed day for all the Re∣deemed to visit their precious Kindred. And bles∣sed be him who has in any gracious measure watered your heart; let him favourably add this also, viz. That upon all the Glory there be a Defence. This is by my precious Friend, whom God hath mightily re∣scued by his Grace. I want nothing but more Com∣munion

with that God, which you pant after; more Faith, more Truth and Resting upon him, more Sa∣tisfaction in him; that I may say, and believe, and sing, God is my Portion. Will he not rend the Hea∣vens? Will he not rend these hearts, and appear? That the Mountains of every fear and disquiet may skip like Lambs before the presence of our God. When shall the Promises be Substance, and a faithful com∣passionate God be an abundant Salvation? Can the lowring face of an uncertain World, and the things thereof, make the Promise and unchangeable good Will of God of no effect? doth not he whisper through every dark Cloud, and say, Come up hither? The Lord open our ears to Instruction, and let us rejoyce to take our leave of that which will not pro∣fit. Every Prayer we make saith, We have chosen an invisible Inheritance. Oh, what a glorious thing is Faith at a desperate pinch! Then is his Throne high and lifted up, when Christ is in profit and loss, in life and death, the hearts advantage, above these lower Ebbings and Flowings. The Lord be with you, &c.

1659. To B. D. N^o 37.

IT were a miserable thing for a gracious heart to suffer Crosses, if the Curse were in them: but seeing their Nature is changed, our misery doth not lie in such Dispensations; but our Instructions are therein, though it is hard to say and believe it; and when the Clouds seem to gather thick over ones head, then to claim sheltering, teaching, and purging Power under the Wings of God, and to sing, as Luther was wont, Psal. 46. God is a Refuge for us, Selah: that

is a posture some way becoming an Heir of Life and Glory, whose Estate is truly secured beyond Thief or Moth. I am sometimes even amazed to think how short I come of what I seem to be, and of real acknowledging that God, and living in that absolute blessed Covenant which I profess my self a sharer in. And doth not these things require rough Dispensations, inward or outward, to awaken and send a poor Sinner home to that Advocate, who is King, Prophet and Priest, to help? But alas, dry words; my leanness, my leanness: yet strong is he who hath in some part already, and will yet further, one day, totally remove all things that offend. Let us bless him, love him, and honour all his ways. The Lord help you and I to live above the Changes of this lower World. There is a Magnanimity in Faith which overcometh the World, if we could but attain that pitch. The Lord establish our hearts and hopes upon himself, he changes not, and bles∣sed be his Name: I leave you with him, and rest, &c.

1659. To D. D. N^o 38.

I Know no Refuge but in God; and blessed be his Name, his Name is a strong Tower: this World is but a withering Portion, a bad Prop to lean upon; the Covenant of Grace will make amends for all. I may not complain unless it be against my Unbe∣lief; God must have the Glory of all his works, and therefore blessed again and again be his Name; he hath not left his people, whatever the World expect or think, and therefore let us charge our hearts to resist sinful Melancholy: his ways are still

Mercy and Truth, and the Children of Zion must, shall, and will rejoyce in their King, a mighty King, their and our Saviour. The Lord is the Pilot of his Church and People; the Vessel may be tost, but cannot miscarry; such honour and privilege have all believing Penitents. The Clouds are thick below, but the Lord rules above; and hath said, It shall be well with the Righteous: And though I am unrigh∣teous, yet he who I desire to make the Object of my Faith is perfect, and in his Righteousness I trust mine; there I would cling and rejoyce in the hope of the Glory of God yet to be revealed, &c.

1659. To D. H. N^o 39.

SEeing our time here is a Warfare, 'tis a comfort to perceive the Lord's presence with any poor Soul, so as to make it stand out in hope and prayer, while Temptations and Corruptions, like fiery Darts, are flying thick on every side. It never goes despe∣rately ill with those that travel towards Zion, and are acquainted with Assaults from Satan, and heart∣treachery from themselves, till they begin secretly to whisper Rebellion against the Covenant and Law of God's Grace; and say, There is no help for me in God. David's Excellency lay not so much, that he was freer from Sin and sinful Miscarriages than others; but in this, that he could not endure to say, or hear others say of him, There is no help for him in God, Psal. 71. 11. c. 3. 2. and c. 42. 10. That was the Anchor that made him ride out Storms, and the Rope that drew him up out of many a deep Pit. Let us use the same means with reverence, and yet with freedom. God is a jealous God, and can∣not

endure to be accounted changeable, Jer. 33. 24, 25. he keeps both ends of the Covenant, and will not give the Glory of any part of that Trust out of his own hands. Every Desire, every Thirst, and Exercise of Resolution or Hope heavenwards, and every Soul and Body-deliverance to such, ariseth from this; viz. that God is faithful, 2 Thes. 3. 3. though our Labour and Prayer ought therein also to be employed, viz. as the means which God has commanded on our part, for a Closing with the ef∣ficatious vertue of his Spirit, by believing: where∣by the force of Christ's Death and Resurrection be∣comes singly applicable to remove Guilt, and con∣fer a gracious Conformity to his Nature, and the Law of Righteousness in the Soul. I see you level at the right Mark, and own your Relief from the right place; and why may I not say, You shall yet see greater things than these? &c.

1659. To D. H. N^o 40.

THe Lord be praised that you are within such a Covenant, that nothing can befall us for evil, while our eye is truly rolling heaven-ward: yea, within such a Covenant as is confirmed in the Blood of him who is able to turn the heart and eye heaven∣ward. That God hath dealt so favourably with your heart, as to tie it to a hungry pursuit after him, is much comfort to my Soul, and matter of praise to his Name. And I account it no small Mercy that my Child is under your care, and both of you un∣der God's gracious Wing. When we acquaint one another that every day we live is a day of Battel, and that the Enemy within us doth rage; this is no

reason of discouragement, because the Battel is the Lords. I am put every day to fly to the City of Refuge; and I bless the Lord, I never found the Gate quite shut against me; yet I am forced some∣times (methinks) to squeeze in. Which difficulty ariseth from my Unbelief, and want of retaining a frame of tender Resignation; not from any straiten∣ing in his Bowels, but in my own: but these days of distance are hastening away. I perceive your eye grows dim, the Lord bless the Means for Recove∣ry; however be not dismayed, you shall want ne∣ver an eye when your Body shall be raised incor∣ruptibly; 'tis not long thither: the Redeemer will be seen eye to eye, and then farewel all Imperfe∣ctions, &c.

1659. To D. H. N^o 41.

I Perceieve B. Cr. hath much trouble through In∣disposition of Body, and it is good it should be so, though disquieting to the Flesh; and you have a gracious share I perceive also. In such Cases it will be some help to turn our thoughts from poring up∣on the Affliction it self, and endeavour by all means to find out the Lesson which God is teaching there∣by; for that is properly and truly our work, in that Christ hath born the Curse for us: he hath taken away the wrathful Penalty, and left only an awa∣kening and instructory Nature in all the Afflictions that his People meet with, Isa. 27. 7, 8, 9. and 63. 9. Psal. 89. 30, 31, 32, &c. Oh that we could believe this, and redeem our precious time, to learn the Will of God, and to be fashioned more to his Likeness under earthly fears or bur∣thens.

As for Betties Recreation, I would have her, amongst other things, learn to sing; that she might use the glorious Ordinance of singing Psalms with the more delight. I must as often as I can, put you in mind, and let us put one another in mind, while we are in this World of Sin and Trouble, that we labour constantly and earnestly to preserve the health of the inward Man. Oh keep a spiritual Palate for right relishing spiritual Food, and to be every day girding on us afresh the long Robe of Christ's Righ∣teousness, that we may be suitable to the state we are called to (Communion with the Father himself, and Jesus Christ.) 'Tis a Garment that grows fresher and fresher to us by the wearing. 'Tis a Garment that will never sully, but cleanseth the Soul that wears it. 'Tis defensive against cold fainty Fits, and the best Armour that can be against the Rage of Sin and Satan. 'Tis a glorious Robe, and yet it hath a singular Vertue to make the Soul that wears it humble. The first Garment that the first Adam made, did somewhat hide his Shame, but could not remove his Guilt and Fear; and therefore he ran with it from God. But this Garment of the second Adam has the only Excellency to bring Souls to God; yea, to his very Throne with boldness. He or she that wears this Robe, carries Salvation about with them, and are Objects of delight to the Father, Son and Spirit, and to the blessed Angels, wherever they go, and whatever their Condition here be: and as Job's Friend said, Job 5. 27. so may I; that So it is: hear it, and know it for thy good. I leave you to the Lord, and rest, &c.

1659. To D. H. N^o 42.

THe Lord teach us his mind, and loosen us from a present World, and gather our hearts and hopes near to himself. 'Tis one of our invaluable Privileges, that this is not our Rest: God calls aloud, Come up hither: Christ is above, holding the Cove∣nant of Grace in his Right Hand, and all his broken∣hearted Mourners, and Prisoners of Hope wrapped up in it, as in a Mantle. Dear Sister, all things are safe, because they are in the heart of Christ; and I doubt not but Christ is yours. Spare not to pray, spare not to repent with grief and joy, spare not to relie on the Rock of Ages: 'tis all but the work of a beloved Spouse towards a matchless Husband. Your Work and Labour in the Lord cannot but be ac∣cepted: Set your eyes towards the tops of the Moun∣tains; your Beloved hastens like a young Roe, and will not be at rest till he has rescued home all his Redeem∣ed, the dearly beloved of his Soul amongst which num∣ber, I am much assured your Name is entred; such are the Riches of his Grace to such a wretched Sin∣ner. And seeing he is resolved to save at such a rate, what Soul-Enemy shall say, What dost thou?

1659. To B. D. N^o 43.

AS for your own fears under which you wrestle, it is not the having or wanting earthly Tran∣quility that is any proper Character of God's Love or Anger; but the discovering mark of that lies chiefly in the way of our deportment under such Trials, agreeable to the practice of the Saints, re∣commended

to us in the Scriptures by the Spirit of God. For there is no Temptation can befall us, which has not been (for substance) the Trial of them who have endured and overcome before us: And you are required to remember their faith and patience, and the issue God gave, that you do not succumb or faint; as if God had forsaken the Go∣vernment of the World, or changed the nature of the everlasting Covenant, ordered in all things, and sure. I have been labouring to live upon the naked Promises of God, in reference to my outward Con∣cernments, as if I were in the want of all things; and do think if I could come at it, it were a glorious Portion. None but exercised Believers can tell tru∣ly why the Promises are called rich and precious, and how much lies in that word (RICH IN FAITH) Jam. 2. 5. and what extensive Satisfaction and Glo∣ry lies in that word (GOOD) All things shall work together for good to them that love God. You know these things, &c. As fears or outward disappoint∣ments abound, fly still a higher pitch; till you re∣joyce in manifold Trials, that God counts you wor∣thy to be listed among them, who could not be made happy by earthly things, nor miserable in the want of all things; whether Estate, Friends, Health, Credit, or any thing else, whilst they could fly to a higher Rock. The Lord direct you, and make you lanch forth upon the Power, and in the Wisdom, and un∣der the Shelter of the Lord: Infinite and abundant is that Shelter. Oh that you and I could, with Lu∣ther, sing over all our sins and fears, be they what they will, the 46^th Psalm; God is a refuge for us, a present help in trouble. Here is our comfort, this World is not our Country; a few days will call us hence. The good Lord manage all your Work, and

open such a Window from Heaven, that both you and I, and all that seek the Lord may be throughly transformed to a hearty joy, even in divers Tempta∣tions; and know the reason, through his Grace, why the blessed Spirit did put that Clause into the holy Scriptures, for our patience and solid Comfort, Jam. 1. 2. We are changeable, no Rest here; and 'tis well it is so; that we might not relish any thing in this World so sweet, as to tempt away our hearts from lovely Canaan, and the desirable Fellowship of Christ, face to face. Oh the day yet hastens, I trust, in which we shall sing away Heart-melancholy for ever, &c.

1659. To B. D. N^o 44.

GOd is a strong Refuge; and as you have found it, you will yet find it the more you roll your self, Family, and Estate upon him. He is one that can forgive Sin, and give Christ; and can he not then give all things with him? He can take away a treacherous heart, and make it new. Access for your Prayer is always open; and will not he take away an evil heart of Unbelief, that the Soul and he may meet together. Let us fear and hope, reach forth, and touch the Golden Scepter, and live in his sight. The Vision is true, which Faith in the Word discovers. Oh, happy is the humble Believer; for there shall be a performance of all things promised. Though the Mountains be cast into the midst of the Seas, God is a refuge for us, Selah, &c.

1660. To D. H. N^o 45.

I Know it is your care and labour to carry on your Warfare, wherever you are: the end of all things is hastening upon us, and we are hastening to it. Let us read the Word as them that do believe it, and pray over it; for the truth of that will abide, when the present World must vanish, and all the things and persons in it. Nourish the Meditation of Christ's Righteousness imputed to you, and your Sins born by him, as the principal means to make you hearty, spiritual, and useful to others, &c.

1660. To D. D. N^o 46.

I am refreshed that you are refreshed in the Lord. Brother, cling there; and be sure the scarlet and white Thread of the Blood and Spirit of Christ will never break (though it be but as it were a Thread) till it hath landed you safely. If I am lifted up, saith Christ, I will draw all men (viz. all Comers to him) to me: and according to the sense of your own words, I would say, Let none of us be discouraged in the toyl and hazard of things temporal. Man liveth not by Bread alone, but by every word of Pro∣mise that comes out of God's Mouth. God has us upon the Anvil; but himself only guides the Hammer. A temporal Life is soon over: Yet a little while, and he that shall come will come. Be still digging in the Mine of Wisdom. Be often realizing to your self a departure hence. Improve present Trials for pre∣sent use; for that God aims at: and they are as needful (whatever we think) as the Thorn at the

Nightingals Breast, to keep him waking. Let us strike in with God's Providences towards us, as Co∣workers, that his designs upon us, and in us, may be promoted vigorously, praying and believing against and above every Dispondency; because his Word is strong when we are weak; his good Will is the same, though sometimes unseen; naked Faith ex∣alts him; and so his blessed Will be done, &c.

1660. To D. D. N^o 47.

WHatever hazards or difficulties you may fear, they are all under the compass of God's absolute dispose; and the same Faith that carries us to rest on him for one thing, in self-denying depen∣dance (which at this time God calls upon us, emi∣nently and graciously to exercise) the same Faith (having such a God and Christ in its eye) is as ex∣tensive, and under promise of Success to all things. All things are possible to him that believeth, Mar. 9. 23. As once Christ said, Remember Lot's Wife; so I would say to you, Remember Lot himself: Ob∣serve how infirmly he carried the matter, although his Faith and Obedience was stronger than his Wives in the general; and being sincere, was accepted: yet, although he saw the Wonders of God before his face, and his irresistable Power, in destroying those Cities in that manner, and preserving him, as a Father would preserve a Child; yet he feared to go to the Mountain where God appointed him, lest he perished. And when he was in Zoar, a Town which God told him, he would save for his sake; yet there also he was afraid, and departed thence; as if he had no longer an Interest in the Power of

God to save him. And how sadly he fell when he thought he had secured himself in a Cave, the story doth relate. And such like Instances doth the Scri∣pture yield in the History of Jacob, David, and others. And because, after every Exercise of Faith, we are apt to enter into a Cave, God doth hold out new Matter for our Exercise; as it were, to keep us in the open Air, to make our Faith hardy and Warlike. God loves not to have his Children crule about the Fire-side, the refuge and sparks of their own kindling; but for their healths sake, enures them to the Weather, that they may be hardy in believing; according as the variety, and difficulty, and hazards do appear, and the imagination of such things start into the Mind. Let us beg of God the practice of our own Letters one to another, and we shall yet see the Salvation of God in that kind as shall be best; even it may be to the outward Man. He that can be contented to venture his Estate, his Safety, his Credit, his Soul, his Body, his Labours, and the Success of them barely upon God; and sit down, and sing a Psalm to his Almighty Mercy, Goodness and Truth: that Man has got a Castle over his head, let the Wind blow which way it will. And herein the blessed God and Giver of Faith will not fail, no more than the Truth of his Nature, and Truth of his Word can change. I would fain be at this practice. However, I must so far commend the way of my God, and justifie the method of his Discipline, both to me and to you; that the Crown of our Profession, and the Glory of a Christian Life, lies in this Life, in this kind of Life of Believing. I do experience so ma∣ny Obstructions against clear Dependance and Re∣signation to the safe hand of God's Power and Love,

and so many aching, contradicting fits of Flesh and Blood, that it would in some sense, grieve me to put any friend that acts only in a carnal Mind, upon such uncouth work as this is. But knowing that you have already started the Game, I would have you pursue merrily to perfect Surrender, and Glo∣riation in God. Believe it as bad a place as you are in; God has made it for a season, his School to you; and till God doth some way clear things by his Pro∣vidence for your Remove, expect more practical Teaching, and more Shelter under his Wing where you are, than elsewhere; although your company would be to me exceeding desirable, &c.

1660. To J. L. N^o 48.

I Am glad you are fitting your self to go through the Storm, rather than to be dejected under it. Nothing is more becoming a Christian, than to make all ready in reference to a Dissolution. I perceive you have lighted upon good Anchor-ground; fix there, and you will be well: I desire to be fixed there with you. 'Tis an ill Choice to part with a Dram of Christ, and Peace of Conscience, for the greatest earthly Furniture. That word, I will never leave you, nor forsake you, is a Vessel that hath carri∣ed many a Soul through furious Tempests, and still landed them safe; and the same Vessel holds Tithe still. It was built of good Timber, and it hath a good Pilot always at the Helm; and therefore it is safe venturing there. Certainly the more freely and resignedly we can adventure Soul and Body upon him, with a single heart, purged in the Lamb's Blood, the safer and the more satisfying will our Passage be.

1660. To M. K. N^o 49.

I Desire both you and I may so improve all the Providences of God towards us, that we may every day creep nearer to him, in whom alone Par∣don, Peace, and Eternal Life is treasured up for them who thirst for it. Among which number I desire you and I may be found, when God shall summon Quick and Dead to receive their Sentence, &c.

1660. To J. N. N^o 50.

I Am glad upon any occasion to hear of your wel∣fare. I continue at present in this place, waiting the issue of things; which the Lord direct and over∣rule to the best. In the midst of all these weighty Providences, and rolling Waves, 'tis good to look well to our Anchor, and to be securing the main. Uncertain Peace, uncertain created Comfort, un∣certain Life, do require us to lean but gently upon such things; and to grasp after an Inheritance, a Life, a Portion which fadeth not; a Country where neither Sighs, nor Groans, nor Sins have any place. If great Shakings cannot throughly awake, 'tis a sign the Drowziness is very great, if not deadly. 'Tis good to be very busie, when the Inch of Candle is near at an end. The Lord teach us heartily to im∣prove our present Minute, and enter into the Ark before the Flood come, &c.

1660. To M. N. N^o 51.

I Having had some opportunity to discern the frame of your heart, and the truth of your Thirst after Jesus Christ, and Resignation up to him, I thought fit, while I was writing to other Friends at N. C. to present you also a Line or two. 'Tis but a little that one Friend can write to another: but where there is a mutual Interest in the same Spirit, there is a Freedom through that Communion, to expatiate large and wide in one anothers joynt Concernments; and to bear a sence of the various Travels of the in∣ward Man, and how it is exercised in you who are begotten of the same God and Father, and nourish∣ed by the same Spirit in Jesus Christ. And in this respect, one Christian may in some measure read the Condition and Affairs of another in his own Expe∣rience, though the manner of Trials may be diffe∣rent. The most that I would say to you is this; Labour to satisfie your heart against Guilt, by the personal Righteousness and Worth of Christ, which you are commanded to own, and put on by believ∣ing, as a Garment made and appointed of God for your wearing; fixing your eye on his Appointment, and not upon your Unsuitableness; on his Grace, and not at all on your own Worthiness; unless it be to urge you towards him with the more speed and re∣solution. This is a Lesson I am every day learning, and I know no shelter like it. The Improvement of the Covenant of Grace in this manner, was to the Prophet David, all his Salvation, and all his desire. This is the Shelter that will keep dry when the Floods come. This will make a Soul out-face Ter∣ror, and give an Answer to turmoiling Accusations.

This will make the Lame to leap as a Hart, and the Dumb to sing, when Woes do over-spread the Earth. I recommend you to this Sanctuary, &c.

1661. To D. H. N^o 52.

I Perceive my Aunt hath had her Weakness re∣turned upon her; such is the Constitution of this Clayey Lump: But what a wonder is it, that a Treasure of Grace and eternal Life should ever dwell through all the days of our Sin, Trouble, and Va∣nity, in such a Tabernacle; and that the Spirit of Christ, the Spirit of Grace, Holiness, and Glory should never cease striving, in the midst of all that Opposition and course Entertainment on our part; and never give over, till our Sins be utterly and for ever extinguished, and Mortality swallowed up of Life: and so these vile Bodies and polluted Souls made conformable to our Redeemer, and the eternal Com∣panions of his Bosom. Let us fix our eye there, and we shall be always projecting for him; and never discontented with our Travel, though we rid but little Ground. Let us prize him, and love him, and all his Rules and Orders; himself in the first place, and all the rest for his sake only: And that makes our work our delight, not our toil and vexation; for there is no want of help, either for Strength or Pardon, or both. He takes Sinners to himself, that he may spend Intimacy of Good Will upon them; and never lets them go quite out of his hands any more. Oh, how little do we know him! How little do we remember that every Conviction we have had, every Groan, every desire of Soul after him, was born first in his heart, and given to us as

the new Creatures Food, to ripen it for Glory. We breath towards him in the strength of his own Breath. We may be yet much more winnowed, but cannot be lost, nor our Faith quite fail; because he prays for us as never meer Man did. His Prayers cannot but speed; for the Will of the Father, Son, and Spirit is one Will, for they are one God; and that Will is nothing but good Will to us, who hope in him, and catch hold of his free Covenant∣good-Will to Men. I have now lately News out of the North, that my dear Brother D. is departed out of this World. How should these things make us love to be trading for that Country, where all our best Friends go, and not think it much that this World yields so many sorrowful bits; because God never appointed it for our abiding place; but only that we may hear his Voice, and be contracted to him while we are below, in order to the consum∣mating the Marriage above. The Lord make us chearfully serious in the business of our day, while it lasteth, to prepare to lanch forth when our Lord shall call. Blessed are they who watch, &c.

1661. To D. A. N^o 53.

WHat God speaks in his Word, we may take for our comfort, to carry us through the Myre, till we land beyond Sin and Pain. The Sal∣vation of such poor Sinners as you and I, was and is the delight of the blessed Trinity. The Father did in his Grace and Love, elect; the Son delighted to come and do the Father's Will in Redeeming; the Holy Spirit loves to apply it, and therefore is called the Comforter: the Angels rejoyce that good

Will from God is come to Men. If God say, you must go to the Top of the Mount, and die, set your face towards him, who has died before you, to bring you through: Fly to the meer Grace and Love of the glorious God that has designed Pardon and Righ∣teousness for poor Sinners, for his own sake, in the Person of his own Son. If he say, you must lanch forth; roll upon the Rock of Ages alone. The wea∣rier you are of your Sins, the more welcome to a Saviour. The wearier you are of your pains and burthens, the sweeter will be the Bosom of an in∣dulgent Father, when you arrive at your Father's House. The whole Race of the Residue of the Re∣deemed are your Fellow-travellers. The whole Tri∣nity is on your side, the Scriptures on your side, the eternal Covenant of Grace on your side, while you bow your head, and lean only on your beloved Re∣deemer. Look up to him, and fear not your passage. I leave you to the Arms of endless Care, Counsel, Comfort, Strength and Pity, &c.

1661. To D. H. N^o 54.

OUr work in this World is only to follow after God, under all the Changes and Trials that do accompany an earthly Life: and we have this En∣couragement; I will never leave you, nor forsake you. Grace, and the Exercise of it also, comes from God: None can cleanse a foul heart, nor quicken a dead one, but he who raised your and my Redeemer from the dead. And therefore, if my heart be as hard as a Stone, as foul as a Dung-hill, as weak as Wa∣ter, and as deceitful, treacherous, and vile as may be; I have no Refuge, but to fly to my most pure,

holy Redeemer, to my unchangeable God in Jesus Christ, who is both my Judge and Saviour. He hears the inward panting of his own Spirit, when we can scarce hear the voice of our own Prayers, or scarce know what to make of them. He who cre∣ates Light out of Darkness, knows how to work up an Acceptation of us to himself in Christ, when our Persons and Services, as they come from us, are as filthy Rags in our own eyes. We never go down the Wind, till we say in our hearts by Unbelief, The Covenant cannot stand in Heaven, because I have sinned against it on Earth. I am God, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. Tru∣ly Sister, I find very often, I have as much need of pardoning Grace, as ever I needed at first Conver∣sion. And I scarce know any thing that states the difference betwixt me and the vilest of Hypocrites, but only this; That God makes my Distempers my Burthen; and in the Riches of his Love, inclines my heart to hanker towards him for help. And for ever blessed be his Name, that doth not suffer us to die away utterly from his Relief. How great is his Goodness! How wealthy and endless is that Store∣house of Perfection that is laid up in Christ, for his ransomed and new-born Seed. Get Christ in your eye; and that will affect your heart, &c.

1661. To D. H. N^o 55.

TOuching what you write that you have an In∣terest in the Mercies I receive, it accords well with that word, 1 Cor. 12. 27. Ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular thereof. And what a mu∣tual Interest is that? First Christ's, and then one

anothers in him. Something of this Affinity appears in the Contentment of that mutual Society of Chri∣stians, but more in the mutual Faith in which they communicate with one another, Rom. 1. 12. The Streams are obvious to our sence; but the Streams would dry up, if the Fountain did not feed them. The more we put on Jesus Christ, the more doth the Morning-Star of Perfection, in that and all other Con∣tentment, twinkle upon us. Still honor God so as to lean upon him, and love him, and all the method he takes. Nothing doth so much bring disquiet, as disappointment; and nothing doth so much bring disappointment, as the fixing ones expectation upon Uncertainties. Be ever therefore trimming up your Expectations on things above, where Christ is, and abides for ever. Dissolve into his good Will, and he will never disappoint your Hope, nor suffer you to be at an utter loss. What think you is the very meaning of that place, Hab. 3. 17, 18. Although the Fig-tree shall not blessom, &c. Yet will I rejoyce in the Lord? &c. Doth it not speak out this? viz. That God is the same, his Word the same, when all things fail besides. If I have disquiet or fears, let me en∣quire what it is that I fear, and on what Ground; whether about my present, or future State of Body or Soul? And let me not make Questions nor An∣swers, but what Scripture doth countenance. I may make use of former Experiences of my own or others, as they bear witness to Divine Writ, in the Scri∣ptures; and so be thankful: but I may not make the Experiences of any sort my Rule, nor Guide of my Faith. My meaning is; We are apt to oppose something or other that we find by Observation or Experience, against the Word of the living God; or expound the great and faithful Promises by those

Experiences or Observations. As where it is said, Sin shall not have Dominion over you. I will send you the Comforter, and he shall teach you all things. I will satisfie the longing Soul. I will give a new heart. I will circumcise your hearts to love me. The Righteous shall not want any good thing. Their Soul shall not be desolate. No Evil shall come near them. Your Sins, and your Iniquities I will remember no more, and such like; which abounds throughout the Scriptures. We are apt to cast cold Water out of our Experiences and Observations upon those Promises, rather than kindle our Faith at them; and so live by Faith on them. We are apt to say, yea; but I do not find it so: I find Sin prevails against me, my Graces wi∣ther, my Conscience clamours, my heart is hard; I pray, and have no Answer; my Condition is di∣stressed, and I fear it will be worse. He that said, No Evil shall come near, doth yet suffer his people to be greatly distressed; even so far sometimes as to die under it, and therefore it is not directed to me; or there is not that soveraign Good in it, as the Go∣spel seems to proclaim. But I would say as Solomon did, Eccles. 7. 10. Consider wisely concerning this. 'Tis impossible the Oath and Promise of God should fail; the mistake is on our part, considering not the Work of the Lord, and the Operation of his hands. He trieth, rooteth, and teacheth Faith by ways of Op∣position; for Christ is always labouring in this Vine∣yard. The Father worketh hitherto, and I work, saith he. His great design is to reveal himself, and bap∣tize his People into the Spirit of his Death and Re∣surrection. He slays Sin by suffering his People sometimes to be, in a sence, slain by it; that they more fully die from their own Power, into his Life, Gal. 2. 19. He brings the Soul to an utter stress,

to make it look out, and venture upon him; as the three Leppers, who to flee from Famine, ventured to flee to an Enemies Army. When he would bring his People from sensible Refuges, and from a Man's personal Worth, and inherent Strength, which usu∣ally gets in like Rust upon the Soul; he dasheth all that, to teach us, that our Life and every Act of it is the meer Operation of his Grace, who lives, moves, and breaths in his People. How is it pos∣sible we should know Patience, but by Sufferings; and the infinite Power and Truth of God in great Deliverances, if the Sun did always shine upon us? This made David say, In very faithfulness thou hast afflicted me: and Paul; I will rejoyce in mine infirmi∣ties, or weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Growth of Grace lies chiefly in more and more expertness in owning of, and living nakedly on the Good that is in Christ, as being really mine own; and deriving Good from him by perpetual Motion. Man's Life lies not so much in his Breath, as in his Breathing; so it is with spiritual Life, exercising fresh and fresh Acts of Recourse to Jesus Christ: And by this means the Soul comes at length to be bathed in the Comfort of his Truth and Love by an operating Faith. Let my Condition be what it will, inwardly or outwardly, I am not to be dismayed from running to God, and encouraging my self in him. But my work is to listen out what God re∣proves or teacheth thereby; holding this as an un∣movable Truth, That his love never fails from his People one moment; and his People are they who in good earnest chuse him for their God; whose very hearts fly and hanker after him; such who come to God by Christ, who design that as their Aim. The whole Scripture doth justifie this plain difference be∣tween

persons and persons; viz. they who come to the light, and they who hate it, Joh 3. 20, 21. Now I say, My work is never to let my heart question his love to me: If he has made me to hanker after him, and if he loves continually, then there is continually room for Access to him. 'Tis true that he hath suffered his People sometimes to fall grievously; as David and others; and he hid his face upon it: But did we ever read, that he did turn away from the Prayer of the Poor; and while it is nothing else but his own Spirit interceding in them, and Christ for them? 'Tis not imaginable, though he seems not to answer sometimes, yet he loves their voice continually. Faith, viz. an acting out of our own Life, in the Life and spirit of Christ, for all manner of good from God by him, is and was always a conquering successful Grace: In the greatest Surge it gives ei∣ther Contentation, or it hastens the opening of the Door for Deliverance; and usually both together, one way or other. 'Tis a sad thing, that when we should be exercising Faith for getting the good of an Affliction, and prying after further Discoveries of God's Truth, Love and Wisdom; and enquiring what the voice of our Father is, and what it means. I say, it is a sad thing that at that time we should spend our thoughts in an unseasonable distrust of an Interest in him. His Rod, his Trials walk up and down among his People, to shew he is their Father, and his Discipline is amongst his Children; and yet we are apt to take the very sign of our Reconcilia∣tion, and make it an occasion of our distrust that we are not related to him. This Wisdom comes not from above, but is carnal, sensual, and unworthy of them who have heard the Word of Faith; yea, and accepted it also for many years. 'Tis bad tempt∣ing

God, and vexing his Spirit in that which pro∣voketh him most. But if I think I was not related to him before, let me fly to him in Christ now, and I shall be his, though I was not actually so before; for he casts away no sincere Comer. But I do sup∣pose you armed by the Lord to encounter these As∣saults, and am persuaded your Faith will grow by every Trial; yea, when 'tis most assaulted, you will be made to expect some good in the Rear; which will make you glorifie God, even in the Fires. Dear Sister, I commend you to the Lord: Christ prays for you, and therefore your faith cannot fail. He will be Eyes to the Blind, Feet to the Lame: He will give Grace and Glory, and no good thing will he with-hold, &c.

1661. To T. N. N^o 56.

IN pursuance of my Promise, and also that the mutual Remembrance of each other may be kept alive, I account my self engaged to present you these Lines. 'Tis one comfort that the Lord rules the World; yea, no other but that God to whom the Supplications of his People are always acceptable in Jesus Christ, and that nothing can be perfectly mi∣serable to them who are constituted Heirs of Bles∣sing, and past away from the Curse through the Curse of Christ. And though the glorious Arm and Truths of God seem to be overwhelmed in the World, yet when God shall appear to vindicate his Name, and cloath himself with Jealousie, what Ob∣struction shall hinder his Course, or stop his hand? I know you are not only strugling with difficulties without, as well as I am, but with Enemies within;

and truly that is my case also. And I know nothing that keeps me from being overwhelmed but only this, viz. some blinks of the free and eternal un∣changeable Bounty of God, who has for his own sake only, pitch'd upon such an unworthy Creature, and caused my Soul to hanker after him. When I am tired out with my own Darkness, Infirmity, Pollu∣tion and Unbelief, his good Spirit is pleased sometimes to sway my heart to throw my self, Body and Soul, and all my Sins and Cares upon him through Jesus Christ; and so out of my own Shame and Confusi∣on of face, there darts in sometimes a Beam of Re∣lief from him, who quickeneth the Dead, and calleth the things that are not as if they were. Could we come off more smoothly to own and catch that Hold upon Jesus Christ which the Word of God's Grace doth invite us to, we might lanch forth, and venture se∣curely in the Ark Jesus Christ, when there is not a Foot of dry Ground here below to stand upon. When we cannot pray, then to remember Christ intercedes. When we are all over defiled and confused, to re∣member the Mediator is cloathed with our Nature, and that on our behalf, in perfect Purity, and in the same Nature which each of us doth bear. He did conquer over all that which we are as yet conflicting with (in his Name.) That we are esteemed not ac∣cording to our present Infirmity, but according to that Perfection to which we are entitled in him who is at God's Right Hand. Could we be more exer∣cised in this view and blessed prospect; it would make our dry and dead Limbs recover heat and life; as it was with Jacob when he heard that Joseph was yet alive; Joseph our Brother is yet alive: And all Power is committed into his hands; he has the Keys of Hell and Death, and is himself the Door of Life also.

Oh, how unpersuadable are our hearts for the most part, and loath to credit the Word of his Grace and Truth, so far as to resign up our selves, our sins, our burthens of all sorts to the vertue and power of his Atonement and Soveraignty, who has ended all dif∣ferences, and brought in an everlasting Righteousness and Good Will, that a righteous God and sinful Man might be reconciled together in him who has ballan∣ced the Account exactly; and being gone, has left a Legacy of Blessing and Peace to every Soul that flees to him to feed upon, till the days of full re∣freshing appears, and we see him as he is. When I only muse my own weakness, it makes me more weak; while I converse with anxious thoughts, it makes my heart dark, sower and feeble; but Mil∣lions of Sins, Cares, Fears, and Disquiets fly before one hearty Closure with Christ, his Power and Grace by Faith. If Christ in the Soul saith I AM HE, whole Troops of Adversaries fall backwards, Difficulties vanish, and desponding Consultations of Unbelief in our Flesh fly as Dust before the Wind; and that because our Redeemer is strong, though we are weak. Methinks sometimes 'tis pity that we should hear so much, read so much spoke or writ, to each other so ordinarily of this certain real Refuge, and yet account it not more real. What a thing is this that Christ hath engaged, that not one of his shall be able to lose what he purchased and bequeathed for them! Such a good Will, and free Grace, that our Sins shall never be able to sin away, no more than they can be able to sin away Christ from the Right Hand of his Father; for were it otherwise, we were undone every moment. Who is it that maintains any Thirst after him that enables poor Dust and Ashes to conflict against all the powers of Darkness;

and of weak, sometimes becomes strong? Who is it that maintains any indignation against the Law of our Flesh that is in our Members, but he who hath overcome in his own Person, and will shortly tread down Satan under our feet also, and is hastning the day when the last Enemy shall be destroyed, and every Sigh and Tear removed. Let us comfort our hearts in this, and pray for each other, that we may, as good Soldiers of Jesus Christ, fight this good Fight of Faith, laying hold on Eternal Life; and so sur∣mount the Miseries of a present evil World, &c. Pray present my hearty Respects to your Daughter, whose Soul I know is labouring in this Work, &c.

1661. To B. D. N^o 57.

THe Lord direct our Course; the Waves will allay, the Calm is coming, our Pilot is skilful, our God unchangeably gracious; he is infinitely pure, and will never leave till our filth be done away, that we may be like him, and bear Likeness to him to all Eternity. Plunge through as well as you can; never say, your hope is lost, and your Judgment is passed over by your God. Our Bot∣tom is good, our Redeemer is strong; and there I leave you, &c.

1661. To S. D. N^o 58.

THe Lord is yours if you are willing to be his; and I doubt not but that is your desire and aim. Stand up in the midst of all your Dumps and Trials, and venture one Halelujah to him that rides

upon the Heavens for your help; yea, in the thick∣est of your doubts about Soul or Body, do but cast a wishly eye to him who hath swallowed up all manner of Deaths in Victory, and you shall over∣come, and rise above the Waves, because he is ri∣sen. It may be you may little think how it chears the heart of Christ to see you sit down and sing a Psalm of Praise for all his Loving-kindnesses in the midst of Worldly Darkness. Measure not spiritual and eternal things by those that are for a moment. Do not wrong the Wisdom of God your Father, by repining against the Instruments and the Events of his Providence. Let your design be how to fortifie each others Faith and Joy, and never ask Counsel of Flesh and Blood in the business. Read over the 46^th Psalm, and make it yours by Meditation and Prayer. Dear Sister, fare you well in the Lord: hasten Hea∣venwards; and count all things else but trifles, that you may finish your Course with joy. Let the same Mind be in you as was in Christ, who emptied him∣self to do the Will of his Father, for saving such poor Sinners as you and I; when he might have en∣joyed all the Glory of the World, he refused it, and wandred up and down despised of Men. Love the Foot-steps of the Captain of your Salvation; and whenever your heart boils up any sinful disquiets, carry your heart and your disquiets to the Lord, and beg of him to judge them, and give you the new heart he promised in Ezek. 36. 26. The good Will, the heart-refreshing Peace, and Comfort of a dear Father, a dear Redeemer, and the dear and blessed Spirit be with you. Blessed he, blessed she that overcomes, and blessed be the Son of God that hath undertaken; we shall overcome in his Victory. Once more farewel; fear not, only believe.

1661. To B. D. N^o 59.

I Perceive your Family is still visited. The God of the Spirits of all Flesh knows what Scourges are most suitable for them whom he designs for Glo∣ry, Honour, and Eternal Life; among whom I trust, you and your Yoak-fellow are enrolled. There is hope that good lies in the bottom, when the heart is drawn the more to seek, resign up to, and wait pa∣tiently for the Salvation of God, to a delightful thought of the Appearance of Christ, and your ga∣thering to him; the whole World cannot purchase one quarter of an hours free Access to God. If he draws and drives the heart to himself, let us bless and love him, whatever means he useth to bring it about. I desire to bless the Lord that you are striving to trace the steps of that Faith that believed under hope, above hope: such Faith, such Hope will never return ashamed. I am strugling with the same difficulties, and none can help me but the faith∣ful Promiser; who is able to quicken his Word to me, and soaken my heart to mix it with Faith. As you write he has not been a barren Wilderness to you (which is unspeakable Grace) so I have often found; and therefore I have hope, that at length he will perfect the design of favour and pity upon such a poor Worm. Lord help you and me to find Foun∣tains in the Valley of Baca, till the last Sourge be over, and every Tear removed. We have no other way now to communicate with each other, but in Prayers and Faith, Affections and Letters. Letters indeed may miscarry, but no earthly Obstruction can hinder the three former: Faith and Prayer flies invisibly, and Christian Affections also. As for my

self, the Lord is every day forcing my Soul to look out more after the mysterious privilege of his most absolute free Grace in Christ. There the wearied find Rest, the polluted finds purity, and the dejected find there an Anchor of Hope. Sometimes I am confounded in mine own thoughts, and my Prayers rather shame me than comfort me; then I stand still, and look for the Salvation of God only: He sends his naked Arm out of the thick Cloud, and creates some Beam of Light and Refuge, which makes a Pilgrim sing in a Land of darkness. He seems to be gone sometimes, but returns again. He withdraws, but never bids farewell utterly. He suffers me some∣times to tumble in mine own filth, but brings me to the Laver again; to the Fountain opened to the House of David, &c. for Sin and Uncleanness. His unchange∣able Purpose and Grace holds its Course as the Sun; and therefore poor Worms are never undone, though never so low. Could I more actually resign up to his Will, and read that Golden Line of his Love that runs within every Providence of his, and in every part of his Discipline, and put my Seal to it, how might I triumph; and say, O Sin, where is thy Sting? O Grave, where is thy Death? He dasheth earthly Comforts, that himself might comfort alone: he suffers Corruption to swell and rage, that he may appear to be the only mighty Redeemer: he glorifies the Excellency of his Word, by forcing the Soul thi∣ther for Refuge. Brother, let us be flying into this Ark, his Word endures to a thousand Generations: we have the same God, and no other than what Abra∣ham, Isaac, and Jacob; Moses, David, and Paul had. He never left a poor Supplicant, nor will do it; for the Spirit of Supplication is his own Breath; and himself deeply concerned in all the Concernments

of his People: they are his, and their Concern∣ments his also. Let us muse this Privilege seriously, and glorifie his good Will by Faith and Thankful∣ness; and so rejoyce in believing above hope. The Lord be a hiding place to you and me; never yield to let him go: but let us cling fast by Faith and Hope, till he cause Salvation and Light to shine forth out of Obscurity, and Comfort all that mourn. Glo∣rifie God by Faith, Patience and Thankfulness; lose not that, and you will be no loser; though the day be dark, the Sun is not down. The times of re∣freshing will come to us, and we to them; for our Redeemer lives for ever. I leave you to that God, and remain, &c.

1661. To S. D. N^o 60.

THat's the happiest Man or Woman in the World that can truly hear the voice of God in his Rod. That happy profit I press and long for; and that happiness I heartily wish to your self and my Bro∣ther; that as God hath made you Partners in Affli∣ction, you would endeavour to the utmost to sup∣port each others Faith and holy Patience in a stormy day. Afflictions, be they what they will, can ne∣ver make you miserable. Nothing makes the Rod tedious, but unwarrantable vexations of Spirit; and in days of trouble, that is the usual Temptation; and there is no such Cure as the naked sight of God's wise disposing hand. If there have been any mis∣giving thoughts between you, about future Concern∣ments relating to your selves and your Children, as under such Surges you have met withal, our frail∣ty is very apt unto; spread that infirmity before the

Lord, who is abundant in Pardon, Mercy, and Truth; who can spare the Lives of the rest if he please, and will not suffer the Seed of his Servants to be desolate. All the Scriptures be full of Coun∣sel, and infallible grounds of Consolation; yet such is our Carnality, Darkness, and Unbelief many times, that we think the Rock cannot yield Honey: and so we gage things by fleshly and worldly Obser∣vation; and are apt secretly to condemn the Wis∣dom, Goodness, and Faithfulness of God before we are aware; whereas the only way to find the Pearl of real advantage in the blessed Word, is to lay the heart to the Word by an exercise of Faith; and then roll the Soul upon the Lord, though it seems to be never so much against that Sense and Reason which Flesh and Blood is always dictating to us. Dear Sister, I must confess I travel under a treache∣rous heart of mine own, which is ever betraying away my Peace, my Strength, my Faith, and Hope; and that is my daily burthen: but I never come be∣fore the Lord with any openness, and unfeigned Re∣signation to him for Pardon and Succour in vain. I am somewhat a Partner with you in the Tempta∣tions and Waves of a present World, but cannot call it dismal so long as God doth in some measure steer my Course in any sincerity after him. Let us provoke one another to this, and the Storm will be over; the day will break, and the darksome sha∣dows will flee away; or we shall flee through, or flee beyond them; for faithful is he that hath pro∣mised.

1661. To J. L. N^o 61.

IT is good to mind our Interest in Christ seriously, where-ever we are; that when-ever we step out of this World, we may step into a better; in which dwells none but righteous Inhabitants, and righteous things. And were it not for this hope, how mise∣rable a life would Christianity be! but one fore∣taste of Christ makes a dismal World pleasant. That made Paul and Silas sing in their Bonds, and John to be ravished in the Spirit in the Isle of Patmos: and truly, nothing else can do it. 'Tis our happiness that things which are seen are only temporal, but things unseen are eternal. I oft think of the com∣fortable society I had once with you; but the Ker∣nel of that which made Society then comfortable lies still safe so long as that Promise holds; Loe, I am with you alway, even to the end of the World. I recommend you into the hands of that precious Friend, and remain, &c.

1661. To D. S. N^o 62.

LEt it be your and my study still to derive mor∣tifying Power from the Grace and Cross of him who was dead, and is alive: I mean the Lamb who stands before the Throne in the vertue of his own Sacrifice, Rev. 5. 6. perpetually to intercede for effectuating all the ends of his Mediation to them who come to God through him. Our Prayers wing∣ed with faith in Christ, and fellow-feeling one of another's troubles, may fly faster than Letters can; and there is no fear of their miscarriage, if once

placed by faith in the Mediator's hand. The Lord who dwells in Houses not made with hands, is the Habitation of his People. Let the fulness of all man∣ner of Contentment that is on the other side Jordan so warm our hope and faith, that nothing on this side may discompose. And Oh that I could dwell more in the view of him who is lifted up to draw all Men to him; that so these earthly Affections might be transformed, and fetch satiating delight from the place where Christ sits, who is even now our life. I commend you to him; at his Throne let us meet, and make merry in the Author of Con∣solation, and our blessed Hope.

1662. To D. H. N^o 63.

TRuly Sister, I do sometimes wonder at the sot∣tishness of my heart, that can be so affected with the Christian tender Respects of a dear Friend, and yet have no more flames of Affection to the Foun∣tain of all Love and Loveliness. Methinks nothing makes any Friend truly excellent in my thoughts but Grace, and the Inhabitation of Christ there. And if a Beam of his Grace creates a delightful Aspect where-ever it pitches, how excellent for Perfection is Jesus Christ himself? Sometimes our hearts are apt to fancy Christ as if he were humoursome, re∣vengeful, as if he would make the worst of things, and not the better; sometimes as if he had forgot∣ten, were far off, did not hear, were reserved, ex∣ceeding ready to take exceptions, and such like: whereas we may go to a poor lump of Clay; where a spark of his Nature dwells, and have sometimes a taste of that Affection that is scarce capable of re∣flecting

back any such prejudices, or the least shadow of them. And the reason is, because there is a root∣ed persuasion of some predominant Principle of Chri∣stian, spiritual, and reciprocal Love. O then how seriously should we pray that our hearts might be di∣rected into the Love of Christ, and that it may be shed abroad in our hearts. A Christ who loves once, ever, always, and to the full, he loveth: he loved and came; he loved, and died; he loved, and pro∣claimed the everlasting Gospel; he loves, and par∣dons; he loves, and teaches; he loves, and reproves; he loves, and holds fast for ever; he loves, and saves. When a Soul is sunk as deep as Hell in sin and filth; in love he redeems that Soul, as out of a Jaques; and is not ashamed, nor thinks it much to cleanse it again, because Love constrains him. All his ways (not one excepted) are Mercy and Truth to them that fear him. He has a noble and surmounting Love, not capable of Melancholy, Misprision, or Mistake. He knew all the defects of his Spouse before he betrothed himself to her in loving Kindness, and tender Mer∣cies. And he so far abhors the declining of his Love, that the very beholding of any defect there inflames his heart to remove it, that he may present her to himself without spot. When we have any Agony against our sins, doth this come from the Flesh? Is it not pure∣ly the Lord's Arm? What shall I say? The Lord reveal himself, that we may purely rejoyce in God our Maker; and cling upon him in the vertue and power of his own unsearchable and endless Grace and Love. I long for other Society than I can have here: few Friends here, and little help; especially as to that Interest in which you and I are most con∣cerned: but there is a River that never dries up, and

a Counsellor that never fails. I am yet in health; and as to outward freedom, as it was when I came hither first; but not without some daily Exercises: but my chief Adversary lurks within, which God will one day destroy, and all Warfare will be over. Let us pray to him for each other, for it is not in vain.

1662. To B. D. N^o 64.

AS for all things that relate to this and the next Life, the Lord help you and I, and all his People, fully to commit our selves into the hands of GOd, in the name and interest of Christ, who is Lord of Quick and Dead: He who hath said In no∣thing be careful, Cast your burthen on the Lord, and that All things shall turn for good to them that love him; and he that hath said, I will never leave you, nor for∣sake you; certainly he cannot forget his own Word. Oh that we had Faith to believe it. Let the great business of Faith be our work every day and night. I leave you to him who is able to teach, help and save, &c.

1662. To T. N. N^o 65.

DEar Sir, However it goes with you, I trust, you have no reason to count your self alone, whilst so good a Friend hath said, I will be with you in the fire, and water. When we are at any plunge, then is a time to act Scripture-Reason, and not worldly Reason; and draw such Conclusions in reference to Soul and Body, as the Wisdom and

Truth of God doth teach. The Lord make his Fur∣nace to be purifying at this day. Some in one kind, some in another have their various Trials, but the Father of Mercies doth govern the matter; so that at the Close, it shall be well with the Righteous. Let us la∣bour with might and main to keep up good thoughts of God, and the glory of our Interest in him. Though the Heaven and Earth do shake, the sense of his Co∣venant cannot change; his Son cannot be dethroned, nor the Promises of his Grace and Presence turn in∣to the Blood of a dead Man. Clouds may darken the Sun as to us, but they can never diminish the na∣tural light of the Sun, nor stop its Course. The Sun is as nigh the Earth when Clouds do interpose, as it was before; and our dear Lord is now as near his afflicted ones, as when the Branch of earthly things was never so green in their hands. Faith, Repen∣tance, Love to the Lord Jesus are glorious Orna∣ments for a Pilgrim, travelling towards that City that hath Foundations. Sir, I know not how it fares with you, but I doubt not but it goes well: For can any dealings of an infinite wise God, a faithful and gracious Father be amiss; seeing he has promi∣sed, and will not fail to give Grace and Glory, and will with-hold no good thing from them that fear him. Let us not deny his Truth by Unbelief, nor his Love by a lowring Dispondency of heart; however the Waves rise and swell, he is above them; and the great Redemption is near.

1662. To B. D. N^o 66.

YOur welfare is amongst the chiefest of my de∣sires in this World; and if the Afflictive Pro∣vidence

of God doth still remain, be not dismayed; yea, if it increaseth, let not a disponding heart put the Lie upon any Promise God hath made: he is not a cruel Father, his Bowels are tender, but our mis∣giving hearts are they that are apt to plunge us. Had we more dexterity in believing, we might steer a comfortable Course, when all sight of dry Land is out of sight. And such a Faith is God's Gift, who has promised us every good thing. Let us both go to the Creator of the ends of the Earth for Faith, and by Faith wait for more Faith; that we may ride out the Storm, and not be ashamed or wearied out under the Cross. How 'tis with you I know not; but I have much confidence you are in as safe hands, and in the bosom of as tender love as ever did shine upon you in the days of more earthly fulness: and that the gracious Goodness of God, and his unsen∣sible Wisdom has ordered this present state of Af∣fairs to exercise you withal. One half hours time beyond Mortality will make amends for all; and we are hastening to it; and I trust, at present freely entitled to the unalterable love of God, who will never leave nor forsake to pity and succour the Off∣spring of his own Grace. If the Lord favour me with his Counsel, and give me the Shield of his Presence, I shall not be at a loss. I dare not give way to hard thoughts of him, but rather to covet after a greater freedom of Resignation to his sweet pleasure.

1662. To B. D. N^o 67.

I Am affected with your trouble, and yet comfor∣ted in your faith and comfort. But who makes

Rivers run in the Desart, knows how to refresh the dry Ground. When we hear News that our Troubles will one day expire, there is some refreshment with it, and not a little support the while. But Oh, for ever blessed be that glorious Hope, that not only outward Troubles, but Sin also shall be no more; yea, and that while we are striving and toiling un∣der a Body of Sin; we are yet stated in the second Adam, brought over from a state of Sin, to a pre∣sent state of Righteousness, Acceptation, and Bles∣sing. This is the Crown and Conquest of Faith, Hope, and Consolation. All these things will I give; yea, said the Tempter, if thou wilt fall down and wor∣ship me. Ah cursed and deceitful Proffer. Let my Portion and yours be found still, and for ever in a crucified risen Christ. If he loved us when he wash∣ed us in his own Blood, then no slaying Providen∣ces can separate from the same Love: so that we may, musing the matter aright, say, he loved me when he hurried me hither and thither, when he brake my Bones, emptied me from Vessel to Ves∣sel, made me as the Mire of the Street. Yet his Blessing once bequeathed, can never be revoked, nor his eternal Love change. Though his Paths are in the Deep, and his Ways and Judgments past finding out, while he maintains in our Souls a Cry after him (which is the voice of his own Spirit in∣terceding in us) he hath not forgotten to be gracious, nor caused his Bowels to cease from yearning to∣ward us. Sin only makes outward Burthens intollerable. Outward Troubles declare the venom of Sin, and tends to open the ear to instruct us: and so both of them sends the Souls of the Redeemed to the Atonement of Christ's Blood for Healing, and into his Bosom for Refuge. Cer∣tainly Brother, his Promises are as good now as they

were before the Storm rose upon us; and the Co∣venant of Grace, and Love, and Good Will smiles as much as ever, and when the Cloud is blown over and gone, we shall see it. Now to justifie God's truth, and submit to his wise hand; to maintain good and honourable thoughts of him, and all his dealings, when so many things from with∣out, and also from within do war against it; this is like the faith of God's Elect, and doth in some blessed measure betoken the knowledge of what God is in himself, and what he is eternally to us, and that the Seed of God remaineth in us. I leave you in his hand, and to strive under your Affairs, as he shall give you Wisdom and Strength. Lord, purge and heal us; he will do it, and all will be well. Let us hold on to pray for each other, for the Vision will speak, &c. Yours to love and live with you in the Lord, &c.

1662. To P. D. N^o 68.

I Have no other thing to recommend to you but this; that as you have already found this pre∣sent World to be a slippery Foundation, so beware how you lay the whole stress of your Expectation upon it, or the persons in it. A thirsty Man may dream that he drinketh; yet when he awakes he may faint. The drink of a Dream gives not nourish∣ment; 'tis only the Water of Life, issuing from the Rock Christ, that is satisfying and healing; He that drinks thereof shall never thirst. Frowns and favours of Men are some of the strongest Engines the Devil has, to shake a Soul from simple and single hearted following of the Lamb: and besides them, the trea∣chery

of our carnal and unbelieving hearts is ever watching to betray our poor Souls into a dis-relish of the pure paths of Life; dulling the edge of Zeal, and blinding the eye from beholding the Excellency that lies in the Person of Christ crucified and risen, and the excellent Grace that has shone from Heaven for recovering poor Sinners out of the Snare of the De∣vil. So that you and I have need to be much attending at the Foot-stool of that Throne where the Lord of Life sways the Scepter of Relief, Mercy, and saving Health for all Comers. Let my Portion be in the Fountain of Life, and not in the broken Cisterns of earthly deceitful Contents. If you would save your self from grieving the good Spirit of God (which I trust, dwells in you) retire your self as much as you can into the Contemplation of such things as may cause the fear and love of God to be and remain with some odoriferous Verdure, and kindly grow in your Soul. And take an ingenious and serious view, whe∣ther the Plants of the Lord do flourish, or else are blighted: No less than an infiniteness of Power is requisite to such work; and he only who engageth his heart to it, lieth under the Promise of the Influ∣ences of Heaven, to quicken and satisfie him with good things full of Marrow. I have no more, but recommending you to the Lord, to keep you from declining in a declining time; and that you may be preserved from evil, and your Affections be where Christ is. I remain, &c.

1662. To S. H. N^o 69.

I Know you yearn after the same Country which I have some hope (through the Riches of that

Bounty that has appeared from Heaven to Men) to see; and when the Groans here below are over, to breath forth Blessing, Honour, and Praise to him who, I trust, has loved us both, and washed us in his own Blood; and I have some ground to hope the number there will be one the more for your company. Only spend your love upon him, your delight in him, your desires after him and every part of his Will; as well to carry the Cross as wear the Crown, for both are privileges. When your heart is opprest with sin or trouble, then think, Oh how free is he from sin, who sits Conqueror at the Right Hand of God, as my Advocate, Surety, Redeemer; yea, my principal self; whose I am by his Redem∣ption, more than I am mine own. Sins, evil thoughts, Heart-lusts, dispondency of Spirit shall not always teare and torment; for he has judged them in his Flesh upon the Tree, and is risen on our behalf. I could write a Volume, had I words and time, of the terrible Inroads which the Enemy, especially my own corrupt heart, makes upon me; but I doubt not, you know the same Warfare. What remains, but that with Faith, Hope, and Patience we cry out, How long, Lord, holy and true; how long ere the Canaanite be expelled, and these Thorns in our Flesh be consumed for ever? Oh what pure and uninterrupted Communion with Christ will that be, when nei∣ther sin within, nor troubles and fears without shall gaul any more; when Melancholy, Doubts and Uu∣belief, as a black Cloud, shall be dispelled, and dri∣ed up for ever before the sparkling face ef the Sun of Righteousness, solemnizing the Marriage of his Spouse. We have no Oratory that can out-pass what he has already uttered concerning this, and his words are not vain, though ours are many times too too chaffy

about these things, the more is the pity it should be so. When he says, Sin shall not have Dominion over you: I will circumcise your hearts to love me: I will re∣deem Jacob out of all his trouble: I will be with you, and deliver you, his words are all true; but our little exercise of Faith is either like a weak handed Gripe, or a leaky Vessel; yet our Faith it self is in his keep∣ing, and his Intercession is incessant; and therefore it cannot utterly fail. Dear Sister, wait on him, pluck up your Soul to the business; your labour will not be in vain, nor any unfaigned desire after him return disappointed and ashamed. Throw Husband, Child, and self upon him, into his Bosom; and there lodge together by Faith, in the Joy of the Ho∣ly Ghost, and so take your rest: I mean a labori∣ous, and yet a sweet Rest; for He gives his Beloved Sleep. His own Concernments are mixt in ours; though his own are chief in his eye, yet he can look upon them without beholding ours; for the Cove∣nant is made, and the Blood that concerns it is al∣ready shed, and fully accepted; the Redemption compleat, and the Lord's portion and delight is his People. So that he (as it were, if I may say (as it were) in so true and real a business) raiseth in him∣self an endless delight, by loving his ransomed Seed, and in dressing them according to his own heart, and shedding out a measure of that Love into their hearts also, for carrying on a Spirit of Conjugal Affection in the Souls of his People towards him now; till the shadows slee away, and we come to know him, as we are known of him; and so love him without interruption, as we are loved of him. Is the day near when a thousand fold more of this will really appear than words can utter? For who can speak how much there lies in God's Purpose; yea, in his

very heart, to do for them for whom he died, bought so dear, and rescued with so high a hand? Deut. 10. 15. How then should we look out to awaken our faith, and lift up our heads, because our Redeemer is alive and risen, and our safety is in him? Oh that my own heart and yours were more warmed in such a view. I have no more but to recommend you to the Bosom of him who is the God of all Grace, Pi∣ty, Power and Consolation. Yours in the hope of this saving Health and Relief, &c.

1663. To E. D. N^o 70.

I Received your Letter, though not so well spelled as that I received before; but as bad as it was, a Father can pick out the meaning of his Child; for Love is quick-sighted, and the best Interpreter of words in the World. God is so to me, and teach∣eth me the same to you. You wrote, you would fain have a tender heart, such as the Prophet calls a heart of Flesh, but not a fleshly carnal heart. What then must become of the hard heart? Your earthly Father cannot take that away, nor give you the other; but beg of him who made the Promise, and he can and will both give you the one, and do the other also. Be not a stranger to him; I would part with some of your Affection towards me, as far as he allows me, that you might spend it on him. You cannot speak to me but by a Letter, at this distance, but you may to God all hours of the day and night. Read the Scriptures as the Word of him who de∣serves all your love and desire; I am contented to have it only at the second hand. Muse over as oft as you can, by what you read and hear, how sinful

your Nature is, and loathsome in God's eye; and how wondrous his Goodness is to tell you, he lays that loathsomness of yours on Christ; and he has by his death, brought in eternal Redemption for you. Consider his exceeding love, and the great travel of his Soul, and bitter Agony; that you in prizing and flying to him, may be freed from the dreadful state of a hard and polluted heart: you can∣not ask any thing of him to this end (only do it re∣verently, and with reliance on him) but he is as wil∣ling to give it. You may open all your heat to him: yea, you must do it; for he loves to have you do it, that so your whole heart may be cured, and my Child be found at last among the number of them who sing for ever, Blessing and Honour, Glory and Thanks to him who loved us, and washed us from our Sins in his own Blood. I leave you to his care, &c.

1663. To D. H. N^o 71.

I Have not yet found out a way of Employment; but am looking out, and do desire to be looking up; for my advice and help comes from the Hills, as David speaks. Disappointments (as a wise and faith∣ful God orders them) are as useful many times as Success: God has not cast me out of his gracious Co∣venant, nor my Soul into murmuring discourage∣ment; but tells me the Trial of my Faith is better, much better than Gold. However 'tis with my out∣ward Man, yet my chiefest Want is not there; and although my sinful and corrupt heart wars strongly against the Spirit, and the new Creature, yet I be∣lieve the Spirit, in the Operations of his Grace in the new Creature, will carry the day when all is

done; for our Redeemer is strong. I am laden with Darkness, Weakness, corrupt Lusts, Vanity, Dis∣trust, unsteady and uneven Walking, deadness and hardness of heart; but I find the Fountain of Mer∣cy for cleansing still open, and the Grace, Mercy, and Truth of God in the Covenant unchangeable: and in this stands all my Salvation, all my chiefest desire, 1 Sam. 23. 5. I want nothing but more Faith, more spiritual Light and Furniture, more of Christ's Image, more renewing in the Spirit of my Mind, to have less carnal Carefulness, Luk. 12. 22. and more of the just Man's Life, Hab. 2. 4. Sin makes a Man poor, weak and fearful; the Grace of God, which brings Salvation, makes a Soul rich, strong and con∣fident; for the Covenant of Grace and the Promi∣ses are more than words. The Treasure is full; and if I could bring my empty Sack in earnest, it would be filled in earnest. I give you a short hint of my Convictions, my Conditions, Travels, and desires; that in the like you may see you are not alone, and that we may strive in Spirit together to∣wards the glorious Prize of our high Calling. I commend you to your and my strong Rock, the bles∣sed and ever-living God, &c.

1663. To D. H. N^o 72.

I Am attending what the Providence of God will direct further to. Now and then some Doors of Providence seem to open themselves a little, but as yet nothing effectually; but the God of Provi∣dence, who is the God of all Grace also, rules them, and every thing is and will be most beautiful in its season. He has glorious Lessons to teach me and

others, in such a method and Discipline as this is; and knows how, and is able to make me, and the rest who are alike exercised, to learn profit; that's my work at present. Bless God with me, that our Sun is in the Firmament; though Clouds breed dark∣ness, his Nature, his Word, Covenant, Mercy, and Truth never fails; and that is enough. Remember that God, even the Eternal Word, came, lived, ful∣filled all Righteousness, died, paid our Debts, re∣moved away the Curse, and overcame in our Na∣ture for us, as our Mediator for us only, not for himself; he needed it not himself. Your nature and mine is as really in Heaven as our persons are on Earth: and that Magazine is open to every desiring and sincerely hankering Soul. Our Redeemer is strong, his heart tender, his words true, his Grace free, and his Love strong as Death; his Compassi∣ons never fail. Oh let us love, fear, adore, and be∣lieve him; and in him alone lift up our heads. To him I commend you, &c.

1663. To B. D. N^o 73.

I Perceive God has struck you off at last from any further hope about that troublesome business, and that you did conceive you should be at London some time this Month. I think there is nothing at this day more remarkably experienced by the People of God, than disappointments in the matters of this present Life; but certainly 'tis not their Doom, but their Physick: neither is the Dispensation wrath, but fa∣therly Wisdom, and rich Bounty to all the adopted Seed. He gives his Children bitter Cups, but yet healthful; at least, the issue will prove it so, &c.

1664. To B. D. N^o 74.

CLouds and darkness doth grow thicker and thicker; but yet there is some light in the Lord, in the midst of outward darkness. Light is sown, and the Harvest will come. Our God is everlast∣ing, and the Covenant of his Love and Truth sure; he is still unchangeably the same in his Grace, what∣ever Changes he orders us to pass through, that Pro∣mise is the same; You shall not be tempted above what you are able. What God spake to Jacob is every word of it true, for our Faith and Learning, Gen. 28. 15. I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places, &c. Make as much room as you can for your Un∣derstanding and Affections to feed on Christ, our daily Bread, for Pardon, Protection, Direction, Purging, Blessing and Comfort: There I leave you, blessing God with you, and for you; that he doth make you cling upon him, and to roll your eye be∣yond these uncertain momentany things. Ply that aim and that work still, for the good Will of him that dwelt and dwells in the burning Bush doth not change: in the Fire and in the Water he will be with us, &c.

1664 To W. D. N^o 75.

THat you are walking Heavenward is the best News one Christian Friend can hear of ano∣ther; I doubt not but that you make that your Journey. You as well as others, have had that word of Christ fulfilled, In the world you shall have trouble: and I hope you have found it as true, that

In me (viz. in Christ) you shall have peace. Cer∣tainly inward Peace can be had no where else; in him alone that Jewel is to be enjoyed. 'Tis good that things below do frown when they force a Child of God to retreat, and shelter himself in the bosom of him whose Love and good Will is everlasting. We have but one great Care to spend our thoughts most about, viz. To rest with joy in the Will of God; seeking his Glory, endeavouring after more of Christ's Image to be renewed in us; and so with faith and patience to breath after that deliverance that will put an end to sin and trouble. Afflictions are then prosperous, when they are blest with a right instruct∣ing and weaning efficacy; and are useful to render the excellency of things not seen more precious and desirable; when they make a Soul to search and pray much, and so wind out of the World, then they are profitable Physick. This is that frame I would be at; and who can help us in this great work, but he that has promised that he will never quench the smoaking Flax, till he hath brought forth Judgment and Righteousness to Victory, &c.

1664. To D. H. N^o 76.

THe Lord himself be with you as a Guide. Sometime fair Weather, and sometime foul; we must expect no other a while: at the Evening it will be light; yea, constant, clear Light and Peace, when all these lower Shadows and Clouds are blown over and gone. In the mean while we are sure to have Pardon, Favour, Life, and the blessed Spirit of Life for our relief. Our Prayers herein will be granted, because we have a bountiful and faithful

Promise for it, and our Surety ready to make it good. Here we are Soldiers, but shall overcome through the victorious Blood of the Lamb, and his Presence with us through Darkness and Light, through Life and Death; the Issue will be Victory, through him who hath loved us. Oh, let the Children of Zion rejoyce in their King, &c.

1664. To B. J. D. N^o 77.

OUr Relation to each other require not only mu∣tual Remembrance, but now and then a Line or two to signifie the same. As for News, what∣ever I see or hear, I write but little; but would employ my thoughts and time in the best way of improvement that I can. Time runs out apace with both of us; the Redemption of it, in order to Eter∣nity, will be found the best Wisdom. What pe∣rilous times the last days will bring forth has been told us already, 2 Tim. 3. 1. amongst which a dry heartless form of Godliness instead of sincere power, is marked as the Mode of the last times. Happy is that Soul that shall be enabled to escape those Rocks and Sands, where many are like to split or run aground. If God be pleased to conquer our hearts into an ingenious Resignation to his gracious Will, and wise Providence, and make room enough for his Authority to reign there, we shall be more than Conquerors as to other difficulties. The Truths we have heard concerning Christ, and the way of Life by him being truly realized, and become in good earnest of a transforming Power into our Souls: that, and that only will at length land us on a safe Shoar. Let us search much, pray, and give serious Wel∣come

to the Spirit of Christ our Head; and the end of our work will be Peace, &c.

1664. To B. D. N^o 78.

WE must always cling upon our strong Refuge, our Life, our Peace; present and eternal Blessedness lies in his hand, and under his Covenant and Seal to give forth. You are much upon my thoughts, that you may be kept sincere, and hold the things you have heard and received. Let no∣thing dismay you; preserve your Intercourse with Jesus Christ with all watchfulness, he will provide things needful in their best season. Wait on God, creep to Heaven, and God will order these outward things for good well enough. Pray much, as I be∣lieve you do; he will be your Sanctuary in a strange Land. I must take my leave, and do leave you to our good God, who has been the God of our Pa∣rents, and has had wondrous love to their Seed, blessed be his Name: He is our God, and will be our Guide to the death, and after that also; HALE∣LUJAH. The War ripens apace, as 'tis feared; but through fair Weather or foul, our Pilot has en∣gaged we shall have a good Landing at last. Our Redeemer is most wise and strong, and therefore we may still lift up our heads in Faith, Hope and Com∣fort. I recommend you to the Lord, whose I am persuaded you are, whom you serve, and who will never leave you.

1664. To B. D. N^o 79.

I Do not doubt but the same God who has made Communion with himself sweet to you, will ga∣ther you under his Wings, and perfect in you the good pleasure of his Will. What a Majestick Pri∣vilege is this, that the omnipent God should volun∣tarily be in the nearest Covenant with a poor Sin∣ner? That Christ, God-man, should be our Priest, our Advocate, and every hour of the day and night alive to make Intercession for all those who come to God through him? What though great and new Temptations come, and sore Tempests arise; he did, doth, and can still say to the Storms, Be ye al∣layed, and they all must obey him. Strong is our Re∣deemer, and therefore the Floods cannot drown a weather-beaten Vessel; yea, he is both Ship and Pilot, and therefore the Venture cannot miscarry. Who is it that keeps the small Grain, the little spark of Faith alive, but he who made Jonah in the Deep to say, Yet I will look again towards thy holy Temple? Our whole care and burthen lies upon his hands, who bears up the Pillars of the Earth: he lives to give and nourish Faith, and in believing to give Peace. There∣fore Sin shall not have utter Dominion, nor Con∣demnation find room to enter. He is bringing us through many Waters, to a safe Shoar. The Vi∣ctory determined and promised will break forth, be∣cause our Head is exalted above all Authority and Power. We may look all manner of Deaths and Damps, all manner of Disappointments, Discoun∣tenances, and Difficulties here below in the face, without an apaled heart, and amazing terror; be∣cause the Prince of Life and Deliverance has enga∣ged

his Life, his Crown and Dignity to be the Hope and Strength of his poor Servants. Happy is that Soul that makes him his only and continual Refuge, as I perceive you do; and blessed be his Name for it. Mr. Th. Tr. is dead, &c. and thus rolls away the World, and the things and Lusts thereof, &c. The days of an anxious Pilgrimage are running out. The Lord direct our eyes to that serene and unchangeable state, where sins, fears and Temptations, turmoils and difficulties will cease for ever: to the comfort and Communion of whose gracious Spirit I com∣mend you, &c.

1665. To D. H. N^o 80.

AS for your Complaints, turn them into Prayer; and make the same Moan to Christ as you do to me: he has not only fellow-feeling, but can suc∣cour also. All other Friends can but administer words; but he is not only willing, but able also to succour them that come to him. All that we can do is but to hand over his Relief to one another, therefore tell him all your mind; when you are wea∣ry, sit down at the Fountain and drink: never ex∣pect Medicine elsewhere. The more you expect from him, the more you get. The more you talk with him, the better you will be acquainted; and he loves such Society. He is not harsh and strange; but as a prudent Father and Husband, full of Bowels; and takes nothing so ill as your standing aloof off. He loves Holiness, and a composed Walk with him; but to the end that he may teach a Soul how to come by it, he leaves that Soul sometimes to darkness, discomposedness, and deadness, that it might be for∣ced

to know him, and to be exercised in going to himself, as all the Store-house we have; and to be∣lieve our Acceptation, our Growth and Fruitfulness to be only in Union and Communion with him by his Spirit. But these things he can teach you best, &c.

1665. To B. J. D. N^o 81.

I Do by one or other sometimes hear of your health; which is welcome News to me. Although the years of my life have not reached the number that yours are now at, yet methinks the Lord hath given me a fair Respuit to seek that Pearl, which doth surmount the value of the whole World, and the Lusts thereof, which pass away: but the deceit, pollution, and negligence of my own heart is such, under a too short improvement of time in a day of Grace, under the means thereof, that I may cry out, Where have I been? What have I done all this while? How little have I answered the Gospel-Call? How little have I pried applyingly into the Mystery of Christ? And what miserable Returns have I made to all the bounteous offers of the Gospel that I have read and heard? But yet the Lord hath in some part hinted to my Soul, that he has made with me in Christ an everlasting Covenant. There I de∣sire humbly to cling, and there to place all my Ex∣pectation, my hope of Acceptation and Salvation, and all my desire. And you that have seen more days than I have done, I intreat you also to give them a serious review. Let neither of us leave our choicest Concernments at uncertainties. Oh, for a rouzing visit from the God of all Grace upon each

of our hearts, that may alarm us out of our selves, into the City of Refuge before we are benighted. Let each of us be as much afraid to have any whol∣some Conviction die upon us now, as we would be afraid hereafter to be found without our Wedding-Garment. I have little News but that the Plague is greatly increased, and seems to import that Wrath is gone forth. The Lord help us to put our house, our hearts in order, with the utmost zeal and dili∣gence. The Alarm from Heaven sounds lowder and lowder, and seems to give more than an uncertain sound: It speaks out divine Wrath most apparent∣ly; happy would this City and Land be, if it heard and submitted to the voice of the Rod. Let us look out, and be fitted to meet our Lord. 'Tis pity to let an eternal state be at uncertainties with us, when a temporal life is thus tottering. Such a flying to Christ as is accompanied with a clear Resignation of our Wills wholly to his Will, is the best Prepa∣rative for our Change.

1665. To B. J. D. N^o 82.

THough there is not often intercourse betwixt us by Letters, yet I can truly say, you are many times upon my heart. The affairs of your precious and never-dying Soul is, as to you, the principal Theam of my anxious and affectionate remembrance of you. I have you in my eye when I do not bodily see you, and in my prayers to him who quickeneth all things, and giveth life and growth to whomsoe∣ver he will. Your Convictions, your Temptations, inward and outward, the wiles and power of the Prince of Darkness, which stands against you in Bat∣tel

Array; your infirmity, the deceitfulness of sin, that will turn and wind, and shift from one corner of the Soul to the other, to preserve it self from be∣ing dislodged; the lulling Baits, the powerful Swa∣sives, the Threats, Exigences, and Influences of a present evil World; the difficulty, and yet the ne∣cessity of that spiritual Warfare, to which you are called, and unto which the promise of Victory is made: these things I say, are in my eye. And then I think there is matter enough for one Brother to remember another, and to cry out; O Lord, who shall raise my Brother into the vigorous exercise of faith with power, into inward and exemplary holi∣ness? Who shall bring him into the Rivers of effe∣ctual Contrition, and land him on the right Shoar; for he is feeble, unable, and ready to halt in the way? Who shall bring him into the strong City, the Walls whereof are Salvation, and the Habita∣tion thereof Purity, Serenity and Peace? Wilt not thou, O God, who alone canst stay the crooked Ser∣pent, and say to all obstacles whatsoever, Give way; Let the ransomed of the Lord return; Let the Seed of my Servants, to whom my Promise is made, come and enter into the strong Hold; for I have found a Ransom? Dear Brother, how, and in what frame of heart my Letter will find you, I know not; but God has guided my Pen, to let you know a little, what kind of musings I have in my Jealousie and ten∣der Affection towards you. If you be busie in these things already, these Lines may be Spur and Encou∣ragement: if otherwise, God can make them a suc∣cessful Alarm; though as mine, they are weak, short, and impotent. I live here among the Graves, and do not know but that my decease may be at hand, though at present in good health; and therefore I

think meet to let my Arrow fly, as near as I can, to the White of the Mark; for there is no work nor invention in the Grave, there is no Return, no fur∣ther opportunity to set the House, the heart in or∣der. Though my glaunce may be at random, God can direct it within the Joynts of the Armour: To him I commend it and you. I have sent you a Bill of Mortality. The voice of God crieth to the Ci∣ty, to the Country, to you, and to me: the Man of Wisdom, and none else, shall see, and fear his Name, &c.

1665. To E. D. N^o 83.

THe greatest thing I desire is, that the presence and blessing of the Lord may be mine and your portion; and that is the best portion which is ob∣tained from him by prayer and resignment to his pure Will. How, in reference to me, God has or∣dered the things of this World to come and go, you have in some measure seen, that you with me should lay hold upon the most durable substance; that so we may become Heirs of that Peace and that Trea∣sure, which the World is neither able to give nor take away. Upon such a Bottom as that, and no other, there is safe swimming by faith through all Changes and difficulties, unto a Condition of Rest, Purity, Peace, and Satisfaction that will never change. I hope Christ has numbred you amongst his Lambs; and if God himself be to you and me a Shephard, we may, in the words of his own Spirit, say, We shall want no good thing. Therefore call much upon him to reveal himself in his Son, unto your heart, and that he would carry and mould your

Concernments and mine in his own bosom, and take the whole care and guidance of us into his own hands, and also conform us perfectly to his Will; and then we are beyond hazard, and may be assu∣red to be supplied sufficiently; guided by his Grace here, and arrive at Glory hereafter, &c.

1666. To C. M. D. N^o 84.

IT hath pleased God to exercise our Family with some considerable Trials, but still that good word of God remains, Light is sown for the Righte∣ous, and joy for the upright in heart. We may not therefore faint under his Correction, but rather at∣tend the voice of his Rod; and in flying to Christ, say, All things shall work together for good: Which promise is made to them that love him. Let us therefore diligently pry into the Gospel where Christ is to be known, and his excellency is able to contract a holy reverential Love; which is that qua∣lification to which the promise is made: which qua∣lification also lies in the free Covenant; I will cir∣cumcise your hearts to love me, saith the Lord. So that all our welfare lies fully and wholly upon the free Promise and Covenant of God, which we are invi∣ted to partake of by faith, which is also his free Gift. Oh, that he would help us to open our mouths wide, that our hearts may be satisfied in a Land of Drought. I am glad to hear your heart steers heavenward, and was therefore the more willing to write you, &c.

1667. To D. H. N^o 85.

I Sympathize with your conflicting Soul. I could make more sad Complaints of my self, than it may be would be for your profit; but while you or I can look up, we may be sure our dear Lord looks down. Read the story of Israel's coming out of Egypt, and you will find it like your case and mine; some∣times they believed, and by and by utterly distrust∣ed their deliverance. Oh, the patience of God ex∣ercised, and still wrought for his own sake; remem∣bring his Covenant. You may be sure you are be∣yond the Notion, so long as you long and pray for the power of Godliness; therefore let every fear send you to Christ afresh, and then you use your fears as God would have you; for the Law and Conviction of Guilt is for that end; as you read in Gal. 3. and the Soul that comes, he will in no wise cast out, but in due time make you see the nature of free Grace, and what the Life of Faith is. Hope still in God; you shall yet see and praise him who is (whatever you think) the health of your Countenance, and your own God. The Lord be your and our Phy∣sician in all respects: his Patients are well attended. You are not out of my thoughts, whose health and welfare my Soul desireth. Let all things and Com∣motions here below cause us to fix upon that which can never change; to that Rock I commend you. God is gracious, our times are in his hand, and 'tis safe in trusting our selves and our Relations there. Your Prayers, though at a distance, can through Christ, administer help as if you were present; and therefore be not troubled that God has disposed you at a distance at this time: he is most wise; creep

into him as near as you can; and be assured, the nearer you creep thither, the better welcome, and the more will your heart be composed. The good hand of the Lord be with you. &c.

1667. To B. D. N^o 86.

I Do begin to long after a Line or two more from you, how it stands as to your inward Man; for that part is oft on my heart concerning you. The Lord is favourable to me; I have both the visitati∣on of his favourable Frowns and Smiles, and his Frowns are very wholsome, for he never leaves me, nor breaks so much as one Clause of his Covenant; for his mercy endureth for ever. I and my Family are in health; I may say, The Lord is my Shephard, I shall not want any good thing. Our God is a sweet Portion, and Heaven a perfect Rest: let us spring up∣wards, and all will be well. Your condition is of∣ten, and sometimes solemnly presented by us before the Lord, Who is a God hearing Prayer. 'Tis a comfort to me to think you are in his hands, and that he will assuredly guide you by his Counsel, un∣til he has brought you to Glory. I commend you to his care and kindness, &c.

1667. To J. A. N^o 87.

I Always perceive your friendly respect to me, for which I return you many thanks. As for the for∣mer part of your Letter, there remaineth nothing on my thoughts that needeth any Apology from you; for I never found your Lines any other than

the meer proceed of Integrity and entire Affection towards me, and therefore always very acceptable; and the rather because they do not only leave Con∣viction upon me, being privy to the burthen of mine own evil heart, I groan under; but are also by way of spur, a good and weighty motive to stir up my Soul to pursue the harder after that Mark which I should, and do daily long to attain unto. Poor Worms as we are may hear and behold one ano∣ther sometimes with some moral and affectionate Impressions; but Oh, what an influential Object is Jesus Christ, who when yearningly beheld, trans∣forms the Soul into the same likeness; and indeed, the Graces of his Spirit in his People also improved, through the Communication of the head, have great force through that Communication, to quicken one another. All this tends to exalt that Fountain of Life and Grace in Christ, that feeds all the Streams with its own vertue. And blessed be for ever the God of all Grace, that has called you and I into that glorious Fellowship and Communion. To him we may complain, and be pitied; in him we may boast, and can never exceed; there Affection may be in∣flamed without danger, for he infinitely surmounts all our love, and all our praises: into whose graci∣ous Arms, my dar Friend, I commend you, &c.

1668. To B. D. N^o 88.

WE see how uncertain things below are, but our Interest in the unchangeable Covenant of Grace will never fail nor deceive us, that still you may say, the Lord is good, and every thing will work together for good, if we let not go our Confi∣dence.

The good and gracious God spread his Wing over you, and direct and manage your Concern∣ments for you. You are much upon my heart; praying that you may have the presence of God pre∣serving and supporting your heart, and ordering your Affairs. I can commend you to him as one whom he is pleased through Christ to own, within the rich, sweet, and precious Covenant of his Grace; and whom he will care for, and never leave, till you are fully freed from every heart-oppressing care. Therefore in the midst of all Cloudy Dispensations, rouse up Faith, and so pass through till you arrive at the Port of true Rest, where the Fore-runner is en∣tred for you. There is a Rock which is not capable of Concussion. A believing heart well digesting the 46th Psalm may behold Terrour without dismaying dread: An unchangeable God is still the same Re∣fuge, in the midst of all other Changes. To that Rock I commend you.

1668. To C. E. D. N^o 89.

I Apprehend it a providential favour of God to me, who gave me an opportunity of seeing my dear Cousin, your Husband, before the Lord removed him hence; that I might have some fresh taste of the frame of his Soul, when he stood upon the brink of Eternity, ready to lanch forth. I know it is an afflicting Providence to you, to be deprived of the Society of so dear a Relation, after you had so long enjoyed the Endearment of each others Affections, and had passed through many afflicting Dispensations together in this Vale of trouble; and had also, I doubt not, many joynt Applications to God, pray∣ing

together; and according to the ability which God gave, endeavouring to promote each others spi∣ritual and everlasting Welfare. But herein there is matter of Consolation, and thankfulness to God; not only that he lent you this choice Comfort through so many years of your Pilgrimage, but that he cau∣sed you to see his faithfulness and goodness in carry∣ing this your dear Husband through, to the end of his spiritual Warfare; and that God preserved him from staining his Profession in the eyes of the World, and has rendred the remembrance of him precious amongst his People, and fulfilled his Word touching him. Mark the righteous Man, and behold the up∣right, &c. And what though he be taken out of our sight for a little time, there is no reason to repine, that the Lord hath seen it good to take him into the Vision and perfect Fruition of himself, among the Blessed (as he hath given us ground to be fully per∣suaded) and has now put an end to his troubles and disquiets, has healed his aches, cured his diseases, and removed his pains of Body; translated him from this World, where he is yet pleased to leave you, for a further exercise of your faith and patience. And now what remains, but that you gird up the Loyns of your Mind, to run the remainder of your own Race. And while you are here, in time, breath after the same eternal Rest; rejoycing amidst all Trials, and believing that our faithful and gracious God, who has begun his good Work in your heart, will ne∣ver cease till he hath carried you through, and lan∣ded you safe, beyond all temptation, sin and sorrow. Into the hands of this gracious God I commend you, &c.

1668. To M. S. N^o 90.

I Am loath to omit the giving you a Line or two by my dear Sister, who is this Morning turning over one Leaf more of her wandring Pilgrimage. God is pleased so to order it, that (methinks) I can hear little from any of my dear Friends, but stories of worldly perplexity; and who are they, who are one way or other without their share therein? This Life is like a troublesome Dream; but blessed are they who, when once the Dream is out, and when once they come to awake, shall be satisfied with realities of true Peace and Comfort, in the Foun∣tain of Freedom and Goodness. We find our com∣forts and expectations here little better than a Bed of Thorns, because this is not the Rest that is de∣signed for the People of God: and 'twill be some help to us under this disquieting exercise and condi∣tion, to remember that while we are passing through, we are held in the hand of him who has a fellow∣feeling of our Case; who did once pass through the difficulties, and drank of the Brook in the way, but now lifts up his head, and so is become the Founda∣dation of our Hope; that such poor Wretches as we are shall one day (through saith and patience) ar∣rive where our Fore-runner is entred. Only let us now cling upon him, till we become transformed into his Likeness, and be compleatly dressed with the white Robe of his Righteousness; that in him, and only in him, we may be found without spot. In the mean space let us pray (and abound therein) for our selves and one another, to our gracious God; who will at length perfect that which concerneth us. To him I commend you, &c.

1668. To T. M. P. N^o 91.

I Put you both together in my Letter, because I have understood, that you are now no longer two, but one. I was very glad to hear that all your pru∣dential Demurs had at last resolved themselves into a Consummation of this long intended Union. My hearty desire for you both is, that the Blessing and Guidance of the Lord may render your mutual So∣ciety a real and constant Comfort to each other, and mutual advantage in reference to all Soul-Con∣cernments. There is no Condition in this World so desirable, but is attended with Temptations and Trials: and therefore 'tis needful, as you have given your selves to each other; so also that you give up your selves particularly and joyntly, as Yoke-fellows together, unto the sweet Yoak, and belessed Will of our Lord Jesus Christ. One of the greatest Re∣semblances that we find in Scripture, whereby the Love of Christ is set forth to Believers, is this state of Marriage: And whatever Content therefore you find in this changed Condition, let it steer your thoughts to that glorious Mystery of Christ's espou∣sing our Nature, that we might become partakers of the Image of God in him; and long for that ap∣pearing of his, when the full solemnizing of the my∣stical Marriage betwixt Christ and his Church will come, and the Union in all degrees be perfected. I commend you to the good hand of the Lord, &c.

1668. To C. M. P. N^o 92.

THe Present is to acquaint you that my Cousin J. B. died Tuesday last, and was this Evening buried. God was pleased to order it so, that I had notice of his sickness, till after his death; which was and is a great trouble to me: but I understand Means were not wanting for his Recovery. His Ma∣ster much bewails the loss of so faithful a Servant. He had, as I understand, some darkness upon his Spi∣rit, till a little before his death; and then uttered (as well as he could) these words; Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, &c. the things which God hath prepared for them that love him: and so died almost immediately; and has left a sweet savour behind him, and a Warning for us his Friends, that we make ready, and be not found unprepared when the like Summons come unto us. We see by daily ex∣perience, that Life-time and Health is not in our own keeping; and therefore are concerned to im∣prove it well while it continues, &c. The gracious Presence of the Lord be with you, &c.

1668. To E. D. N^o 93.

SInce my former, God has been pleased to draw a Cloud upon my poor Family. Tuesday last little Tho. fell sick, and on Wednesday Morning died, and is this day to be buried: a great and suddain stroak, which doth almost overwhelm my dear Wife; who goes up and down lamenting, and of∣ten crying out, that she has sinned away her sweet Babe into the Grave. You may see in short, how

'tis with us at present, I need not add more, for I know what tender Love your self did bear to this sweet and heart-taking Infant. Only I desire both you and my dear Sister, and our Friends there to pray for us, that this stroak may be blest to us all, and that my desolate dear Wife may be guided through her present Confusion of Spirit, to the on∣ly and right Refuge. I delivered her your Letter, which was very acceptable; and therefore pray write her something again; and I desire my Sister would do the same. 'Tis good to help in time of need: Her heart is much broken, and my Affliction not a little; and I believe it is for some further good that God intends to us both: a few Lines from you, whom I know she doth dearly value, will be very seasonable. No Affliction is at present joyous, but grievous; but afterwards comes the sweet and whol∣some Fruit: and this is the Portion of them who take hold of the full and sure Covenant, and the crucifi∣ed risen Christ, who dies no more. There is no∣thing will so wean Affections hence, and from the mischief of Creature-love, as the Study of Christ; viewing him in the Gospel, pondering his excellent Person, and his glorious Mediatory Office for us; and so pitch the Affections on him, to be inflamed with his Love, in our own Propriety in him. And therefore not only with the Bowels of an Earthly Father, but in the Bowels of Jesus Christ I intreat, and in his Name do charge you to study and muse day and night, the unmeasurable endless Love of God, who sent his Son; the infinite, unwearied, and endless Love of Christ, who came, died, rose again, and lives for ever to be your only Portion; and to make you, even you, a delightful Portion to him; and to render you (through the Blood of

Sprinkling, and the Communion and Influence of that one Spirit of the Father and Son) an Object of his Delight; and a Monument of his pardoning Grace, and his purifying Vertue to all Eternity. To him I commend you.

1668. To E. D. N^o 94.

BOth my self and my Wife are very sensible of this sore Storm with which the Lord is pleased to exercise your faith and patience at this time. But Christ is in the Vessel, and therefore you cannot pe∣rish: in the Fire and in the Water, in every cold and hot fit he is with you, and has a tender sense of every jot of your pain and sickness; tis a Father's Chastisement and Trial: and all his aim is to puri∣fie and fit you for an Object of his eternal delight. I know his everlasting Arms are under you: and though the Dispensation be dark, yet he is doing you good with all his heart, according to his Cove∣nant, and with all his Soul. He enclined your heart of his own Grace to chuse him, because he chose you first, and will yet chuse you in the Furnace. Throw your self upon him, for nothing shall sepa∣rate you from his love in Christ. Christ himself was once sick for your sake, to the very death, and in great darkness; yet always beloved of his Father: and his God and Father is your God and Father; and therefore he will not forsake your Soul in Ad∣versity, but make your Bed in your Sickness; for his tender Mercy towards you can never dry up. Resign up your self to him, and be comforted in him; for he who is your own God and Saviour, is Lord both of Life and Death. My heart is melting

over you, and yet I am but an earthly Father; all Affection is derived from him; but his Affections, his Love and Pity are infinite. I do remember you, and my poor Wife also; both of us have and do spread your Case before the Lord: and I have abun∣dant satisfaction in the Lord, that it is and will be well with you, living or dying; but we earnestly desire, if it be his Will, that you may yet live to shew forth the praises of him upon the Earth, who has done great things for you. For what greater fa∣vour can he give a poor Creature, than to make you seek his Face, and to number you amongst his Fol∣lowers; which he has given Evidence of (blessed be his Name) already. Be not dejected, but lift up your head and heart to your God and Saviour: Throw all your sins, and cares, and fears upon him, and spare not; for so you honour him, and can ne∣ver please him better. He sees you through a Cloud, and delights to do you good; and will never cease, till he open before you the endless Volume of his eternal Love, and so love you into his eternal Rest. Therefore bear up, and be revived; for God himself is with you for a Refuge. To him I leave you, waiting his good pleasure, &c.

1668. To E. D. N^o 95.

I received yours of the 10^th Instant October, desi∣ring to own the gracious hand of God in this speedy Recovery of yours. When Hezekiah was reprieved from death for a season, tis said, he re∣turned not according to the Benefit. Take heed of that; whatever Awakning you have had, endeavour to retain it; and that's the best kind of thankful∣ness;

and this the Lord will give, if you do often let him know 'tis the real desire of your heart: He satisfieth the longing Soul. Present the same things to him by Faith and Prayer which you mention to me in your Letter, and then you may expect to speed. He can compose and direct your thoughts; for Heart∣work is his only to manage. When you put Faith and Prayer to the Word, you make it another thing than it was before in the meer Letter: that's the way to draw Water out of the Wells of Salvation. And thus hum∣bly, seriously, and chearfully expect whatever good there lies bequeathed to you in the New Testament, which is your Legacy, &c.

1668. To M. D. N^o 96.

BE not discouraged in your Christian Warfare: every one of Christ's Disciples, Male and Fe∣male, must be all Souldiers, and we have the Lord of Life for the Captain of our Salvation; who will teach our hands to war, and fingers to fight. He never slumbers: If he seem to slumber, one of your Groans will wake him; for his Bowels are more tender than yours can be to the little Babe. He has taken the work upon him; and though we are weak, he is strong, and will be sure to manage the Trust which the Father hath given him; and will never leave, till he has perfected that which concerns every Lamb of his Flock. Be glad in the Lord; love him, and rest in his Bosom: his Love can never wither. There I leave you, and remain, &c.

1669. To D. H. N^o 97.

I Am refreshed in that experience you have had of the good hand of God towards you: and though God has caused you to walk in many rough Paths, as to your outward Condition, yet he still appears a God of all Grace; and doth in these things plainly tell you, that this World is not your Rest; and there∣fore you meet with Thorns and Briars here, that you may have the fresher desires maintained in your heart, aspiring upwards. The greatest of earthly Contentments will be of no worth nor use in Hea∣ven; neither can they of themselves, any way add to the Comfort or thriving of a spiritual Life here on Earth. The only Life we are allowed to live in this World is the Life of Faith; which grows bet∣ter under difficulties, than in a smooth state of Af∣fairs in this World. I know no sweeter Entertain∣ment that God can give in this World to his poor Children, than that he give often Convincement that the best of this World is too lean Diet for them to feed upon; and so make them take the truer taste of that Marrow and Fatness which in Christ, they are always to live upon; that is no less than God himself, the Fountain of Blessedness, Safety, Peace, Sufficiency, and solid Joy. What can come amiss to that Soul, which Christ undertakes by all things, and through all things, to bring to himself? For this end he died; and this is the great end of every Trial you meet with; and upon this Ground the Spirit saith, Rejoyce when you fall into divers Temptations. All the Glory, Fulness, and Ease of this World is but horrour and distress to a convinced Soul, that looks on God as an Enemy: but nothing can be dis∣mayingly

sad, when God saith, I am thine; when Infinite saith, I am thine; I who am the Maker of all things, am thy Husband; thy Trials shall not quite overwhelm thee; thy sins shall not ruine thee; Death it self shall not destroy thee. O Death, where is thy Destruction, when God shall say, I will be with thee in the Fire, and in the Water? Thy Person is ac∣cepted, thy Prayers (though in thy own eyes with∣out any form or comeliness) are sweet, and accepted in Christ, who hath chosen thee, and thou hast cho∣sen him. What shall I say? The freeness of God's Grace in Christ, his powerful and most voluntary Love is such, where-ever it darts, that neither Sin nor Devil can stand before it, to hinder a jot of all that good which such a God has promised and un∣dertook to perform; and that meerly upon the Ac∣count of his own Name, streaming forth through Christ in the Gospel, to such poor impenitent Crea∣tures as you and I are. I shall add no more at pre∣sent; but committing you to this God, whose you are, whom you serve, and who will never leave nor forsake; but guide you by his Counsel, and support you by his Spirit, till he has brought you to Glory, the perfection and fulness of what you pray and long for, &c.

1669. To M. D. N^o 98.

I Have hitherto had some favourable presence of the Lord with me, which I bless him for. Whe∣ther the Fig-tree doth blossom or no, yet he is good, and can make it blossom when he please: He that hath given us himself, will not with-hold what is truly good from us. All his Methods are lovely to a believing Eye. Let us soar above, and disown

all other Comforts that contradict our Communion with him. The Riches of free Grace, and that bles∣sed Interest in Christ doth sparkle sweetliest in a tast∣less dark World. I have no greater thing to say to my own Soul or yours than this: Let us chuse God in Christ for our Portion, and exceeding Joy; and then we shall have, not only enough, but our Cup will run over. With my dearest Affections and true Love to your self, and cordial Respects to all other Friends, &c.

1669. To M. D. N^o 99.

IT can never go ill, while the Door of Access is by Christ's own hand kept open, to converse with God; and some favour this way he is pleased now and then to grant me. The Concernments of his glorious Name do call for our greatest Solicitude; and though I am now wandring up and down, I de∣sire still to bear that more tenderly upon my heart. I hope our Prayers meet every day at the same Throne of Grace: Let that Trade go on, and other things will do well enough. I see serious Persons have weighty thoughts about the present Providen∣ces of God towards us. I have you much upon my heart. Feed upon the Grace of the Gospel every day, and pray for me, that I may do so too, &c.

1669. To M. D. N^o 100.

MY heart will not suffer my hand to be quiet, unless I take every opportunity to render my self as present with you as I can (methinks) the

savour of Christianity in this place, among many I converse with, is like the smell of a field which God hath blessed. Cherish whatever may render the Love of Christ predominant in your heart. I think my heart hath felt the good of yours and others Prayers; and I hope God has begun, by what I hear, to answer his Peoples Prayers for his Church: Oh that he may go on, and fill their Mouths with Praise. I have no more, but my choicest Affections to your dear self, &c.

1669. To B. D. N^o 101.

I Have heard by Mr. D. that you have been lately sick, but yet recovering. I doubt not but you always wait and prepare for your Change; and are through Grace, ready for it. We see the mutabili∣ty of all Terrene things, but an Interest in an un∣changeable Covenant of Grace will not fail nor de∣ceive all such as are comprised in it; who may al∣ways say, the Lord is good, and every thing will work together for good for us, if we let not go our Confidence. Seeing the Providence of God hath so ordered my Condition, that I must, while Health and Life continue, have my hand in some endeavours for necessary Supply; I am still waiting upon his Blessing in that way which he was pleased to direct me unto; and I may say with Jacob, God hath sed me all my life long, and 'tis safe and comfortable rest∣ing on his Arm. I commend your Person and Affairs to our most wise God, to dispose, guide and manage. I know you need much Faith, Wisdom, Patience, and Self-denial to carry you through; but you have a strong Refuge still to flee unto, and be accepted: And there I leave you, &c.

1669. To S. M. N^o 102.

AFter much languishing Weakness, the Lord was pleased to remove hence by Death Mr. H. D. much lamented by many. He gave good evidence of his Interest in the unchangeable Covenant before his last Change came; and so left a good savour be∣hind him. We have enjoyed much freedom here for some time, but what times we are reserved for, we know not; but our times are in God's hand, who seems to call upon us all, to remember that this World is not our resting place, and therefore we are still to prepare for fresh difficulties; and the hurries and uncertainties here below should be as a Spur in our sides, to our motion towards the Land of Rest, and that purchased and promised Freedom, for which the whole Creation groaneth. Blessed are those dis∣quiets that rouze the Soul thither for true Rest and Ease. The Lord help us, among all other business here, to mind Eternity, and be always ready; that whensoever God please to summon us hence by Death, it may not be as an uncomfortable Surprize, &c.

1669. To J. L. N^o 103.

I Desire that ancient Affection between us may never die, though distance of Habitation has put us for a long time far asunder. I have lived upon the care of my God hitherto, and may say of him as Jacob did, He has fed me all my life, to this day; and I have his Promise also for the future, and faithful is he that hath promised. Let us both have still a fresh

pursuit after the chiefest good, kept alive, and grow∣ing more and more in our Souls, &c.

1670. To M. D. N^o 104.

I Know I am upon your heart, and in your prayers, as you are in mine. Present my affectionate Re∣spects to Mr. Br. and tell him, I desire his serious Remembrance of me before the Lord; and the like I desire of every praying Friend. Be not anxious concerning the present Providence: our times, and every Case of ours, are all in the hands of God: to him let our Requests be made known, and every thought composed in believing on him who hath said, All things shall work together for good to them that love him; as I hope in some measure of truth we do. With utmost Affections to your self, &c. The good hand of the Lord be with you, &c.

1670. To M. D. N^o 105.

HOw many experiences doth God give us, day after day, of his Pity and Love? and Oh, that our hearts may be raised up to adore and love him again, which is the principal Thankfulness that we are able to shew. Be careful in nothing; but let Faith and Prayer breath forth every Anxiety of Soul into the wise and gracious dispose of God; and in him centre with a holy recumbent Acquiescence of heart. 'Tis a profitable sweet necessity to be forced upon the naked Arm of God; and that he alone be∣comes the Stay, and only Retirement of the Soul, &c. The Grace, Power, Wisdom, and Faithful∣ness

of God never becomes admired, till we im∣prove them in all Cases. This is the Mark I aim at; this is a most secure delightful Pasture to feed in, when the World seems to be a barren Wilderness, and the things thereof wither. I commend you for Health, Comfort, and Preservation to my gracious God; he is our Father, and hath a Fathers heart, and a Fathers care. I hanker after my peculiar Sta∣tion, and to be amongst those dear Friends, from whom I am at present separated by distance of place, though not in Affection: I remember them as God enables me, in my daily Addresses, and I know I am remembred by them; and such a privilege is ve∣ry great. Let me intreat you, give not way to any despondent Melancholy, but rejoyce always in the Lord; Who is good, and his Mercy endureth for ever. With my utmost and inmost Affections to your self, I leave you in the hands of our faithful God, who lives and loves for ever, &c.

1670. To M. D. N^o 106.

I Have acquainted you of the plain state of things: 'tis the Exercise of our gracious Father, to try our faith and patience; on him let us depend: and let me intreat you bear up, and not be dismayed, or suffer your thoughts to be dejected; for God has promised, that in every Temptation he will find a way for our escape: and Faith is then most excellent, where difficulties do most appear: he can easily make rough places a Plain. 'Twill be a great comfort to me, to hear that you are careful in nothing (I mean with a discontented care) but that in all things you make your Requests known by Prayer, with Thanks∣giving

to God; for that's our work: and to leave our cares upon him, in the use of what means he shall direct. The gracious Face of God in Christ shine upon you, &c.

1670. To M. D. N^o 107.

Every day here is tedious to me, only am now and then refreshed among savoury Acquain∣tance. I have had some difficulties in my own Spi∣rit, under the present Dispensation; but God has given some hints to me, that it shall be for advan∣tage. Some Clouds have come, but ever and anon it shines again; which shews that though Darkness be intermixed, yet the Sun is not set, nor Day ut∣terly gone; nor will ever cease, till the present Warfare issues into Freedom and Victory: and all through the rich Grace and Faithfulness of God, who delighteth in Mercy, who will abundantly par∣don, and save to the uttermost. I have you often in my eye, and the rest of my dear Friends, to whom related in the Fellowship of the Gospel; for all whom, I offer up daily Requests to our God and Fa∣ther. Let us pray, believe, hope, and rejoyce in our God, our Rock; He giveth power to the Faint, will revive the Weary, and never turn from them (who wait on him) to do them good. Oh that whenever we meet again, it may be with some advanced degrees of Holiness, and spiritual Light and Life: more faithful, more capacious to take in the Mystery of Christ, more discerning our Union with him, more inward in our Communion, more often in our Con∣verse with him; that we may spring upwards with more frequent desires, and improve the Grace of

Adoption in a greater height of Filial Obedience; and with more freedom, resolvedness and delight, make Christ our All in all. Surely God aims at this in our Trials, and the Trials of his Church; and I trust, the Zeal of the Lord of Hosts will effect and per∣form it. I know my Affairs at home do suffer by my absence, but God knows how to ballance that loss; and therefore, while I am serving his present Pro∣vidence, I desire to leave that care upon him, &c. I commend you to the gracious Bosom of our bles∣sed God and Father; even to him who is your best Friend and Keeper: and with my choicest Affections I remain, &c.

1670. To P. D. N^o 108.

THe best advice which in the first place I would give you, and which I would take my self in all straits is, seriously to consider the deserving cause of trouble, and how far there hath been the least acces∣sariness thereunto, and so to spread it penitently be∣fore the Lord, imploring the help of his Spirit through Jesus Christ, to give a thorow Turn to him; applying your self heartily and unfeignedly to the Throne of Grace, for the removing away all Guilt; and that Conscience being cleansed through the Blood of Christ, Peace may be made between God and your Soul. And if the Lord shall please thus to incline your heart to him, 'twill be some fore-run∣ning Token that he will find a way (for he can best do it) to take off the edge of Mens severity, and turn it, though against the Grain of their own Inte∣rest, into pity and kindness, &c.

1670. To B. J. D. N^o 109.

THis Afternoon Mr. M. H. was buried at A. B. Church; his Crops attended by many Mini∣sters and others to the Grave, and has left a good savour behind him. Let us be also ready, Nesci∣mus horam. Time, how short soever, is yet before us; and Oh that you and I may now know and pur∣sue the things that belong to our Peace, before our Sun be set, and our feet stumble on the dark Moun∣tains. I have no more at present to add, but to re∣peat your own words, Sequere Deum; with that of the Apostle, Superna Curate. Perplexity and Un∣certainty is some of the best Entertainment which this World can give. 'Tis good fixing on a Rock that never fails; I mean Jesus Christ; which the Lord enable you and I to do, &c.

1671. To B. D. N^o 110.

BE assured, you are much upon my heart. 'Tis a refreshment to me that you labour to anchor in good Ground, reposing your heart on him who is the wonderful Counsellor, and also mighty to save. Joseph's God is yet alive, and those ancient Providences do yet speak: he was his God when stript of his party coloured Coat, in the Pit, in Travel, in Prison, un∣der false Accusation, and in a strange idolatrous Land, as well as when he was in his Father's House; and this is for our Learning. It is a very dark and Cloudy time with us, but the Name of God is a strong Tower; Safety and Sufficiency is there. It is well you still hold on in Faith and Hope, and are

graciously watered from the Fountain, when Streams dry up; the Vision will certainly speak in due sea∣son. The best and securest Refuge is above, and there I desire with you to centre. My Daughter presents you her due Respects; and as a token there∣of, a Manuscript of her own taking, being the Con∣tents of a Sermon lately preached among us, con∣taining Matter worthy your Meditation, in order to a holy Rest in God; and desiring it may be some help to you, amidst all your laborious and toilsome Exercise, which we are sensible you lie under; and commending you to the gracious Protection of the Ruler of the whole Earth, the God of Sea and Land; beseeching him to be your Guide continually, and your safe Convoy. I remain, &c.

1671. To J. D. J. N^o 111.

WE are heartily desirous of your truest Wel∣fare; and whilst you are scanted as to that means of Grace which your Friends enjoy here, peruse the Scriptures, and such good Books as you have with the more seriousness, and enure your self much to Prayer; that the awful remembrance of God's Presence, and the consideration of his Grace tendered in Jesus Christ to Sinners, may be much upon your heart; and this will carry you safely and sweetly through all difficulties, and procure a Bles∣sing to your self, and your Affairs, and be the best Foundation of Hope and Comfort when and where∣ever the Lord shall period your days: which is my earnest desire and Prayer on your behalf.

1672. To C. J. D. N^o 112.

I Must now acquaint you that I received News from the East-Indies, that doth not a little affect me, that God has been pleased to remove my Cou∣sin, your dear Husband, out of this World; who finished his days the fifth of September last, and his death lamented by those that knew him. I am sor∣ry that this Letter must be the Messenger of those sad Tidings unto you; but God is wise, and we are to submit to his holy Will and Pleasure. It was sur∣prizing News to me. The Lord support your heart under this Affliction, and teach you his Will, and pro∣vide for you and yours. I cannot enlarge at this pre∣sent, for every word I write about it makes my heart to ake; the Lord grant you patience, to whose Care and Teaching I desire to commend you, &c.

1672. To B. J. D. N^o 113.

I Am glad to hear that you are in health, which the Lord continue with the Addition of the high∣est Blessing. That spiritual Endowment, and that Interest in Christ, that saving and powerful work of Grace, and that activity for God in the ways and power of Godliness, and that exemplary patern of Holiness in your Walk, which can only render long Life a Blessing, and truly make an hour of dissolution sweet, and the consideration of that great day of our Appearance to be pleasant, and upon safe Grounds desirable. That famous and laborious Minister, Mr. Joseph Carrill, your ancient Friend and Compa∣nion,

is departed this Life, aged about seventy one years; his death greatly lamented by the People of God throughout this City. About the beginning of his Sickness I was with him, and he enquired con∣cerning you, as he was wont to do; and perceiving him to be somewhat weak, though he did not then keep his Chamber, I desired him, while he was yet alive, to pray for you; which motion he chearfully and readily embraced. And coming to him again, about three days before his death, found him very weak, and past hope of life; he then told me, as well as I could understand him (for his Speech was low) that he had remembred his Promise to me con∣cerning you. I think good to mention this particu∣lar passage, to provoke you to all seriousness in re∣ference to your own Soul, whose eternal welfare lay so much upon the heart of this Servant of Christ. His Labours were great, his Studies incessant, his Conversation unspotted, his Sincerity, Faith, Zeal, and Wisdom gave a fragrant smell among the Churches and Servants of Christ. His Sickness, though painful, born with patience, and joy in be∣lieving; and so he parted from Time to Eternity, under full Sail of desire and joy in the Holy Spirit. He lived his own Sermons: he did at last desire his Friends to forbear speaking to him, that so he might retire himself; which time they perceived he spent in Prayer; oftentimes lifting up his hands a little, and at length his Friends seeing not his hand to move, drew near, and perceived he was silently departed from them, leaving many mournful hearts behind. And now, dear Brother, Oh that this may be an exciting motive to you and I, to redeem the time which the Catterpillers have eaten, that we be not found unready. And if ever you expect to be a

Companion again with Mr. Carrill, break off from all such Company which were not his delight. Con∣cern your self to make a fresh and through Surren∣der to God in your old Age. Beg, I beseech you, beg such a Convincing impartial heart-breaking sight of your sins in Youth and old Age, that may force you to Christ for Refuge, while he may be found; and beg his Spirit, that you may glorifie him on Earth, the few days that yet remain, as signally as ever you have dishonoured him. What a joy will it be to this glorified Saint, Mr. Carrill, at the last day, to see that his Prayers for you have prevailed. Dear Brother, I pray excuse my earnestness in what I have written, It may be you and I may never see each other in this World: you are much upon my heart, I mean as to your eternal Estate; and glad I should be to hear of some eminent Change as to Soul-Concernments, before either I hear of yours, or you hear of my lanching forth into vast Eternity, where there can be no more Changes; and the hour is near, in which the eye that hath seen you, shall see you no more: As the Tree falls, so shall it lie; the eternal Judgment follows Death at the Heels. I can say no more; it must be Divine Power and Grace that must set the Wheels a going, if ever they move. And therefore, whilst I am in this World, I hope I shall not cease to pray for you, whilst you are in this World also; for our Prayers cannot reach beyond the Grave. Dear Brother, farewel; yea, fare better and better, till you fare best of all, &c.

1673. To F. H. N^o 114.

I And you are creeping towards our last Change; the thoughts of which can be no farther comfor∣table to us, than we have obtained some good hope through Grace, that we are united to Christ, our sins forgiven for his sake, and that we are accepted and beloved of God in him; and all this evidenced to our own hearts, by the witness, and the renew∣ing vertue of his own Spirit: all which requires a necessity of being convinced of our own vileness by sin, and that we go out of our selves, and humbly lay hold on Christ by Faith; that when we die and remove from hence (having lived on him, and unto him here) we may live in him, and with him for ever. Our Friends here are generally in health, and none of them without their Cares, in reference to the difficulties that do attend this present State and Pilgrimage; some in one kind, some in another. Oh that God and Christ, and the Riches of his Grace revealed by his Spirit in the Word, may be the more sweet to the Soul. I shall only say, the Lord direct your feet in the Paths of Life, and crown your old Age with a saving Knowledge of Christ, with a through Conviction of your Sin, of Nature and Life, and guide you to him as your only Refuge; to glorifie his Grace while you live, and rest in his Peace when you shall be here no more, &c.

1673. To P. D. N^o 115.

I Am glad to understand by your Letter, that your Family is in health, and that the Lord is pleased

to keep your eye directed to him in your outward Affairs, with a savoury sense of all the spiritual En∣joyments you lie under; longing after suitableness to them, and an increased value of them. Real Thankfulness for them doth much consist in such kind of Affections. The Lord's Promise is to sa∣tisfie the longing Soul: To whose favourable Hand, and rich Grace I commend you. Faithful is God who hath called you into the Fellowship of his dear Son, and thereby you have boldness to enter in with∣in the Vail, and he hath promised you shall never be cast out; for your Iniquities, he will remember them no more. And though the Cross be somewhat dif∣ficult to bear, yet the Reserve at last will fully re∣compence all; and therefore lift up your head, for Redemption is coming, &c.

1674. To B. D. N^o 116.

I Bless the Lord, I can remember and mention you as one who is interested in that Promise, Jer. 32. 41. I will rejoyce over them, to do them good: and that he will never leave you, till he has perfected that which concerns you, in a way of Grace, Mer∣cy, and Love. My great and often Request on your behalf is, above all, that God would preserve you from the Evil of Sin, and from Snares in your daily Walk; that he would sprinkle you with the Blood, with the Merit of Christ's Satisfaction and Righte∣ousness; that he would direct your Path, and do all your Works in you, and for you; and cause you to lean strongly and chearfully on the Arm of his Truth and Grace, in reference to all present and future Tri∣als; and that you may more than conquer through

believing, in every Exigence you do or may meet with; till the Warfare be accomplished, and the days of Trial finished, in the Fruition of perfect Freedom. For my own part, I have reason to bless the Lord, that he has favourably held me up, and carried me along now these many years, since we saw each other, though exercised me with some dif∣ficulties, and considerable Losses; yet I hope, and do think, he has some way or other a Reserve of Kindness for me (unworthy me) and mine; for the Earth is the Lords, and the fulness of it. And through this Grace I have in some measure and desire, held on still to chuse him for my Portion, as to things present and eternal. As his time was (writing of one deceased) so your and my times are in the hands of God, who is most wise, and to be adored and submitted to. The days of our anxious Pilgrimage are running out; the Lord direct our eyes to that se∣rene unchangeable State, where Sins, Fears, Tem∣ptations, Turmoils, and Difficulties will cease for ever: To the Care, Counsel, Comfort, and Com∣munion of whose gracious Spirit I commend you.

1674. To T. M. N^o 117.

SOme time since I received from you a large, and very savoury Letter, which I do now and then peruse, as a friendly Monitor, and good help for ta∣king the better view of mine own heart; and that Letter, together with the Acquaintance I had with you in London, doth cause me the oftner to remem∣ber you with delight. I have understood of your Health by several Friends, which I desire, if the Lord please, may continue and prosper; as I am

persuaded, through the Influences of the Spirit of Christ, and his unchangeable Love, your Soul pro∣spers. To that rich Grace of Christ, and to his blessed Conduct in all your Concerns, I commend you, &c.

1674. To H. W. N^o 118.

REmembring that ancient Amity and Respect that was heretofore between my Father and your self, and the continuance thereof for a long time after his Decease, between your self and his Fa∣mily; and being not at all conscious to my self, that I have for my own part hitherto merited, much less designed the Suspence of that good Will; but being still heartily desirous of your Welfare, I am, though distant in place, yet as occasion presents, of∣ten enquiring how 'tis with you; and understanding that your days are yet drawn forth, and that your Pilgrimage, though under much infirmity of old Age, doth yet continue, I was willing to evidence my real Respects unto you by a Line or two: and as I do not doubt, but that your general aim through∣out your days, have been to employ your Talent in the Service of Christ, while strength and time per∣mitted; so I earnestly desire, that in the Approaches of a Dissolution, you may find that fulfilled to you, which David prayed for; viz. That the Lord would not leave him in his old Age, when Strength faileth, Psal. 71. 9. The same I desire for you, even that you may now experience the refreshing vertue of all those Gospel-Truths which Christ hath so long in∣trusted you with, as his Messenger unto others; that you may have the Merit of his Satisfaction and Righ∣teousness

applied, for your perfect Absolution from all Sin and Guilt; the Influence and Conduct of his Spirit, to water and steer all your Meditations, thoughts, hopes and desires; the Consolations of his Grace and Love, to sweeten your Travel through the Valley of Death, and give you at last a refresh∣ing Arrival at the Throne of eternal Rest; and there harbour you, after all the Incumbrance and War∣fare of this present state, in the Fruition of his im∣mediate Presence, without spot in Jesus Christ; the Glimpses whereof I heartily desire you may before∣hand partake of, as an Earnest of that great, full, and perfect Revelation and Enjoyment, when Time shall be no more. So with my hearty and unfeigned Respects, I remain yours in Truth and true Affe∣ction, &c.

1674. To H. W. N^o 119.

I Received yours of the 25^th past, which was ex∣ceeding welcome to me; and therefore I return you hearty thanks, both for it, and your candid Ac∣ceptation of that Token I sent you; being an Indi∣cation (such as it was) of the respect and value, which from my very heart, and that deservedly, I bear towards you. Your Letter written, as I see, with an aged feeble hand, I have read over with great Acceptation, and account it to me the same as a precious Balm. I understand that Mr. Oxenb. af∣ter a very small time of Sickness, in a few moments space departed this Life: And thus we are dropping away, hastning towards a Dissolution; where the eye that now seeth us, shall see us no more. Bles∣sed be that Redeemer, who will not call home any

of his peculiar number before he has finished the de∣sign of his Grace, and the purpose of his Will by them, and in them. And blessed are those Souls that are, in any saving measure, helped by his Spi∣rit to creep out of themselves, into his heart; and in that Union partake of all the Benefits, of his Death and Purchase, both for present Grace, and hope of Glory. In which number I am undoubted∣ly persuaded that you are included; and that you lie under the Aspect of that Divine Goodness and Love which will feed the Oyl in your Lamp, and cause your Lamp to be ready trimmed and burning; that so when the Bridegroom comes, and calls you off to Immortality and Life, you may be able to say, Loe I come, for all is ready: Such a readiness the Lord grant also to my poor Soul. To his Grace and Fa∣vour, and the Consolation of his Spirit I commit you, and rest, &c.

1674. To E. D. N^o 120.

LEt your Consideration feed on the quickning Truths of the Gospel; flying to, and relying on Christ, who is the Arm of the Lord; rejoycing in him who requires you to cast every depressing bur∣then from your self, upon him: that is true Gospel-Method, and you shall not be disappointed. Faith∣ful is God, who hath called you into the Fellowship of his dear Son, and thereby you have ground of Boldness to enter in within the Vail, and he has promised you shall never be cast out; for your Iniquities, he will remember them no more: and though the Cross be somewhat difficult to bear, yet the Reserve at last will fully recompence all; and therefore lift up your

head, for Redemption is coming. We are troubled at the Troubles the Churches meet with in—and elsewhere. 'Tis a sad day when the Word of Salvation comes to be suppressed by Souls that must perish without it: Our business is, chearfully and humbly to prepare for greater Shocks. Nearness to God in Christ is the safest and sweetest Sanctuary.

1675. To E. D. N^o 121.

I Have not received any Letter from you for di∣vers Weeks, which is not a little afflictive. You are upon our hearts, and we cease not the particular mention of you in our Prayers. Sometimes I fear your Body lies under such extremity that you cannot write; and sometimes I am willing to relieve my thoughts by supposing, if it were so, I might at least, have a Letter from S. H. But though I know not your present Case, yet I know my God and your God has you under his own Love and Care: His great design for his own Glory, and your and my Good, is to instruct us, and lead us into the Life of Resignation, and Dependance singly and fully upon himself: saving Light, Faith, and Truth is the very Lesson he is calling upon me, and drawing me to own; and Oh for some good Proficiency in this Learning: nothing so sweet, nothing so secure, and nothing so compleatly advantagious. I left the La∣dy J. this Afternoon, very near, in appearance, to a Dissolution, and A. P. breathing, and waiting for her Change. Happy Souls, who chuse that part that shall never be taken away, but abide through Death, un∣to Life in Perfection, &c. I doubt not where you are, but you will have the good Presence of God,

that is both a Sun and a Shield; and withal, he will with-hold no good thing from you, seeing he has gi∣ven you to his Son, and his Son to you, who will cause you to have an upright scope towards the Law of that blessed Relation; which is the Condition of that Promise. To the Shadow of whose Wing I commend both you and my Sister, longing to hear of her Recovery, if the Lord please; but she is in a Fathers hand, and under her Fathers care and love: in Sickness and Health, living and dying, nothing can come amiss to those that love him, and sell them∣selves perfectly away to him; as I am persuaded she has done; and can rejoyce in that blessed Bargain. A Contract made by and through Christ, the faith∣ful Witness, and watchful prevalent Advocate; and however outward Dispensations and Providences do work, they will work together for good, because his Love, Mercy, and Truth endureth for ever; where the Eye of his Favour once fixeth, he never takes it off; the tokens of which Favour you have, through his free Grace, had some taste of, that there∣by you may be led, and helped to hope perfectly to the end, and humbly rejoyce in the Hope of the Glory of God, in what method soever he is pleased to act in the way of his fatherly Discipline. He is omnipotently, universally, and continually good in himself, and in the Communications of his Good∣ness to his People; waiting in him, and trusting in him. To him I commend you daily, and with him I leave you, &c.

1675. To B. D. N^o 122.

IN my last I acquainted you of the weakness of my, Daughter Elizabeth, at which time she continued with an intermixing of Revivings now and then, and much refreshment as to the state of her Soul, and things eternal; and in the Doctor's Opinion, in some good hope of Recovery, until the 5^th Instant De∣cember, being the Sabbath Day: and then the Do∣ctors saw that the Lord had determined otherwise, and that Evening he called her to himself. The loss of whose Company is not only a piercing Affliction to my self, &c. but lamented by divers others, who had experience of that worth which God himself had graciously beautified her Soul with. He is most wise: Oh that he would cause me distinctly to hear his Voice herein, and to improve it to the utmost use he intends it for. It is your own Affliction, that you are by the Providence of God, held there so long, at that distance from us, under so many Trials of your Faith and Patience on every hand; which as the Lord is pleased to help, I am with my weak measure, often presenting before him, that he would bear up your heart, and assist you as he hath hither∣to done, to go through the residue of your Exercise in this Pilgrimage. And commending you to his Grace, Strength, Counsel and Blessing, I remain, &c.

1675. To M. D. N^o 123.

I Know you are with loving Friends, and in the hands and care of a gracious Father. Endeavour

to refresh your Soul in the thoughts of him and his dear Son, and in the Promise that all shall work to∣gether for good to you; for he is faithful that pro∣mised, and his ways have been and will be Mercy and Truth towards you. Love him, believe him, and be careful in nothing but how to please him, and say, Shall not I drink of the Cup my Father gives, &c. Hitherto the Lord hath kept me, and I want nothing more than his sanctifying and graci∣cious Presence with me all along. Travelling work doth greatly disorder my thoughts, as to that savou∣ry Composedness which I long for. My poor Soul greatly suffers by the toilsomness of Travel; yet still The Lord is good, and his Mercy endureth for ever.

1676. To J. L. N^o 124.

Some years have now passed without the Inter∣course of any Letter between us. I should be glad our old Acquaintance might not quite die, while we live and continue here. How 'tis with you I know not; but for my own part, I have and do pass my Pilgrimage here thorow a Thorny Wilderness of Cares, Difficulties and Temptations, all along; and do expect no other, till I leave my sinful Nature, and a dark, defiled World behind me: for I have abundant daily proof that this lower State is not my Rest, but I wait and hope for that Rest which re∣maineth. I am stricken in Years, being now in the 64^th Year of my Age; and through the Riches of free Grace (and that alone) sailing towards the end of Time, under the Hope of Eternal Life; and through the Goodness of the Lord, do yet enjoy the Company of my dear and suitable Yoak-fellow, as a

Helper and sweet Companion with me in my Voy∣age. I had also a gracious Child, my Daughter Eli∣zabeth, whom the Lord eminently prepared for him∣self, and then translated her hence: and God has left us one little Branch; the Lord grant she may love to tread in the good steps of her Sister, and enter at last into the same Rest. I heartily desire it may eve∣ry way go well with you; and that though distance of place hinder our Converse here, yet we may at last see the Face of Christ, and one another, in the perfection of Purity, and fulness of Joy, in a better Country.

1676. To C. S. D. N^o 125.

I Understand by Mr. F. that you are all in health; long may it continue, and well may your Time and Health be improved. And as to any Counsel that I am able to give you, 'tis far short of what you do or may receive; not only from the solemn Mi∣nistration of the Gospel, by the faithful Dispencers of the Word, but also by those excellent Books, fit for Meditation, Use, and Application; of which I suppose you have many lying by you. Only I would say this; The chiefest part of Religion (that which in Scripture is called the Kingdom of God) lies chief∣ly in heart-renewing Power; whereby the Throne and Dominion of Sin is broken with daily Warrings against it, and daily labouring to be free from its Captivity; and to that end there is a necessity of the Conviction of our sinful (yea, damnable) Condition by Nature: and that not only in our own Opinion and Judgment, but in real view, sense, feeling, and inward Operation and Exercise; that so the know∣ledge

of, and Interest in Christ may appear indispen∣sibly necessary, and perfectly desirable, as a Propiti∣ation for Sin, and to translate the Soul into the pure Image of himself in this World, as the Fore-runner of an eternal Fruition of all that Blessedness he died to purchase. And upon manifold Considerations, it doth eminently concern you to dig for this Wisdom, as for hid Treasure. You have and may further see what a lean satisfaction it is, that this lower World doth afford; what a Sandy Foundation it is to build our hope, delight, or dependance upon; and how soon every Flower withers. Therefore daily beg of God Light, Truth in the inward part, and saving Wisdom, to be your Principle and Guide, through the residue of Time. Unto his Grace I commend you, and rest, &c.

1677. To C. H. D. N^o 126.

I Received your Letter, and delivered that you sent my Brother: both he and I are sensible of the loss of your only Brother. It doth concern you to consider the Voice of God in these Afflictions, one after another; and to improve them so as to make God himself in Christ your only standing Refuge. And certainly, if these things do cause you to turn your eyes directly upon him, and to centre in him alone, you will find him the Husband of the Widow, and Father of the Fatherless. In every trouble our wisest course is, to endeavour to learn what God is pleased to say to our Souls therein; which is to get the hearts of his People more united unto himself by Faith and clear Resignation; for though the things and Persons of this World do wither and fade, yet God himself

is the Rock of Ages; and hath promised, The Righ∣teous shall not be utterly desolate: for in the Fire and in the Water he will be with them, and never leave or forsake them. And therefore I would desire you to endeavour, rather to improve your Affliction by Faith for spiritual use, than to waste away your thoughts unprofitably through Unbelief, in ponder∣ing and dejecting your heart under these outward Trials, though they be great. Therefore read and meditate the Word, where provision of Support is made, to answer all Cases of distress. Spread your Soul often before the Lord; open the bottom of your heart to him. Fly to the Blood of Christ for daily Atonement; and give your self up to him who has said, Cast your burthen on the Lord, and he will sustain you: and then you will see reason at length to say, It was good for me that I was afflicted; and that He or she is blessed whom God afflicts, and teacheth his Law. Unto him I commend you, praying for you, that you and yours may have the gracious Shelter of his Love and Kindness in every Condition.

1678. To M. R. N^o 127.

I Received yours of the 14^th Instant, and have been refreshed in reading those savoury Lines which you were pleased to send me. I read them as if you your self had been conversing with me, and my self present with you; and do acknowledge the kindness of God in dropping down a Blessing upon your Soul, in the midst of all the former and latter Exercises, wherewith he has been pleased to try you. This is the privilege of the Afflictions which come from the God of all Grace; viz. That they produce the sa∣voury

Fruits of a more indeared hankering after him, Dependance on him, Resignation to him, and a ho∣ly Longing that his own most wise and good Will may be accomplished. Mr. T. G. has had a little Im∣pression made upon him by his Journey, and got Cold, which hath not yet left him; but we have enjoyed him amongst us this day in our praying work, in which your self, and other absent Friends were re∣remembred. So commending you to the Lord, and his gracious Support and Conduct, I remain, &c.

1678. To C. E. D. N^o 128.

I Often think upon you; and look upon it as a gra∣cious dealing of God towards you, not only to prolong your Life to this Age, but also, and chiefly, that he hath crowned your old Age with an unwea∣ried Tendency towards a better Life than you or I have ever yet seen, with that Sight which we can∣not here be capacious of. I do hear sometimes by one or other, both of your being in the Land of the Living, and that you walk as becomes an aged Dis∣ciple of Christ; adorning the Gospel you profess with a Conversation suitable thereunto. The last time I heard from you was by our good Friend Mrs. Stubs, who was here but a few days before her Hus∣band, that holy and laborious Minister of Christ, took his leave of her; breathing forth his last fare∣wel to this present World: and that Body of Clay in which he had served Christ, for gaining of Souls into his Flock, through a long Tract of years, flou∣rishing (I hope prospering) in the great Embassage which the great Shepherd employed him in. His death was much bewailed by many, especially by

them that best knew his Worth, as a great loss to the Interest and Cause of Christ, both in City and Country. The Lord in Mercy raise up more Sup∣plies of like Sincerity, Diligence, and Faithfulness in the Lord's Vineyard. Dear Cousin, the Lord is pleased to use many ways and means to cause us to make the utmost improvement of Seasons and Op∣portunities of Grace, and gives many Motives there∣to; amongst which this is one, that the Prophets do not live for ever; and therefore he requires us to make speed, while the day of Grace, and while the time of Life continues; that we may not be found naked and unready, when our Summons from hence by Death shall be sent us. I have not arri∣ved to the length of your days, but the effects of old Age are much upon me, and the shadows of the Evening have begun to appear; therefore, as it is always, so especially it is needful for you and I, that are almost at the utmost bounds of our time. to look into, and much to strive after the real and essential parts of Godliness; which lies much in this, viz. To ponder the Corruption of our own Nature, and the Contradiction that it stands in, against the pure Nature of God, and his revealed Will; till we ar∣rive at such a Self-Abhorrence, and Dispondence of any Relief which we can derive from whatever we are, or whatever we can do, as of our selves; that we may betake our selves entirely and perfectly to the Grace revealed in Christ; casting our Anchor of Hope there, and there only; flying to the Merits of Christ, and his single Righteousness; in the ver∣tue, and under the Covering whereof, to appear be∣fore him, when all Flesh shall stand and receive their unalterable Sentence: that then we may have the comfortable Happiness of that good Word, There is

no Condemnation to those that are in Christ. I cannot at present add more, only this; Let none of your past or present Troubles, of what kind soever, hinder your re∣joycing in your gracious God and Saviour, who hath fed you all your Life long; and will be your God, and your Guide; and (as I am abundantly persuaded) you will find him, according to all that he hath pro∣mised, your exceeding great Reward, when the days of Rest and endless Refreshing shall come. I com∣mit you to the gracious Guidance of God, and the comfortable Fellowship and Communion of his Ho∣ly Spirit. I pray for you, and desire to be remem∣bred also by you, in your Prayers unto the God of all Grace; even our own God and Father: Under whose Wing I desire to leave you, and remain, &c.

1681. To C. E. D. N^o 129.

GOd has been pleased to continue your Life unto a great length of days; and though your out∣ward Man hath been withering (yet, blessed be God, I perceive) your inward Man hath been assisted by his good Spirit hitherto, to make a happy Voyage to the Haven of true Rest. The Lord in Mercy ac∣company you through the remaining part of your Voyage, till you enter safely into the Harbour, and be setled in the Mansions which Christ is gone before to prepare for you. I have my self much Infirmity of Body, and am in daily Combat with the Cor∣ruption and Vileness of my own heart; from which I hope, through the Riches of free Grace, to be ere long delivered: and I have an abundant hope, as to the same concerning your self. Cast your eye upon the great Mediator, roll your self upon him; for he

will never leave you, nor forsake you. One days Communion with God without all Sin, in that Hea∣venly Country, will make you full amends for all the difficulties you have passed through in your earth∣ly Pilgrimage. And though I am not like to see you in this World, I hope, through the Grace of the ever∣lasting Covenant, to see you where there will be nei∣ther Sin nor old Age, &c. to molest either you or me any more. Dear Cousin, the Arms of Divine Love, Grace, and Mercy be continually embracing you. I can now add no more; but do commend you into the hands of that God, whose I am persuaded you are, and whom you serve. My affectionate Respects to your self, and all your Relations, and that Seed of God which he hath been pleased to plant in your Neighborhood. I remain, your affectionate Kinsman, and Brother in Christ, &c.

1682. To B. D. N^o 130.

I Received yours from Tunbridge Wells, &c. and I think, those who advise you to be as little thought∣ful as you can while you drink the Waters, do give you friendly Advice. It may much concur to your health, to be rather chearful, than to be serious in the use of them; for I know you have that matter within you (through the Riches of Grace) to render you chear∣ful in the Lord. We must remember our Bodies, as well as our Souls, are redeemed; and the very Body of a Believer is Christ's more than his own; and what you do for the support of the meer Body is acceptable to God, and especially under that Infirmity which you chiefly went thither for. The Lord bless the Means which his Providence hath directed you to, and be always with your Spirit, &c.