r own houses, choosing those in particular, of whom we had seen
little. After we had had several meetings in our own houses, we were
invited by the brethren and sisters, and they have asked others to meet
us. Sometimes also we have proposed those for invitation whom we see but
seldom. These meetings we have found both for ourselves and others very
useful, and they will, no doubt, continue to be a blessing, as long as the
Lord shall enable us to precede and follow them with prayer. They are also
particularly important as a means of the brethren becoming acquainted with
each other, and of uniting their hearts.)

May 13. Today I have had again much reason to mourn over my corrupt
nature, particularly on account of want of gratitude for the many temporal
mercies by which I am surrounded. I was so sinful as to be dissatisfied on
account of the dinner, because I thought it would not agree with me,
instead of thanking God for the rich provision, and asking heartily the
Lord's blessing upon it, and remembering the many dear children of God who
would have been glad of such a meal. I rejoice in the prospect of that day
when, in seeing Jesus as He is, I shall be like Him. May 14. Lord's-day.
The Lord, instead of chastising me today for the ingratitude and
discontent, of yesterday, by leaving me to my own strength in preaching,
and bringing temporal want upon me, has given me a good day. I have
preached with much assistance and comfort, and the Lord has given me rich
temporal supplies: for besides the freewill offerings of 2l. 8s. 10d., a
5l. note was put into my hand for the supply of any want I may have. Thus
the Lord melted the heart by love, and made me still more see the baseness
of my conduct yesterday. Thanks be to God, the day is coming, when Satan
will triumph no more!

May 18. There are now 64 children in the two Orphan-Houses, and two more
are expected, which will fill the two houses.

May 28. The narrative of some of the Lord's dealings with me is now near
being published, which has led me again most earnestly this day week, and
repeatedly since, to ask the Lord that He would be pleased to give me what
is wanting of the 1000l., for which sum I have asked Him on behalf of the
orphans; for though, in my own mind, the thing is as good as done, so much
so, that I have repeatedly been able to thank God, that He will surely
give me every shilling of that sum, yet to others this would not be
enough. As the whole matter, then,