u, O Lord, who hast called, will enable me to give up, and come forward
in perfect obedience to the manifestations of thy divine light, so as a
thorough change may be wrought, that I may be fitted and prepared for a
place in thy everlasting kingdom. Though at times I am led into great
discouragement, and almost ready to faint by the way, fearing I shall
never be made conqueror over those potent enemies who so much oppose my
happiness, O be Thou near in these needful times, and underneath to bear
me up in all the difficulties which it is necessary I should pass through
for my further refinement, whilst I have a being in this earthly
pilgrimage. Strong are the ties that seem to attach me to the earth; but
O! I have cause to believe, from a known sense, stronger are the ties of
thy overshadowing Spirit than all the ties of natural affection. Great and
frequent are the trials and temptations, and narrow is the way wherein we
ought to walk; alas! too narrow for many. O may I ever be preserved,
faithfully forward to the eternal land of rest!

Dear Lord, who knowest the secret of all hearts, thou knowest I am at
times under a sense of great weakness; but thou, who art always waiting to
gather the tender youth into thy flock and family, hast mercifully reached
over me with thy gathering arm. Mayst thou ever be near to strengthen me
in every weakness; and make me willing to leave all, take up my daily
cross, and follow thee in the denial of self, not fearing to confess thee
before men. Always give me strength to perform whatsoever thou mayest
require at my hands; wean my affections more and more; attract me nearer
to thyself; and lead me through this world as a stranger, never to be
known to it more but by the name of JOHN YEARDLEY.

In the Third Month Joseph Wood again addressed his young friend by letter,
encouraging him to be steadfast in trial, and to beware of the gilded
baits of the enemy; and promising him, that if he followed the Lord
faithfully, his works should appear marvellous in his eyes, his wonders be
disclosed to him in the deeps, and he on his part would be made willing to
serve him with a perfect heart.

In the Sixth Month, again visiting Blacker, he had a "precious,
heart-tendering religious opportunity with all the family."

About this time Joel Yeardley was so much reduced in his circumstances as
to be obliged to give up farming, which compelled his sons to seek their
own means of livelihood. Thomas and