of exercising this gift, it would
be an awful consideration, and cause of deep regret, that I had not better
improved the time. The hardness of heart in others, as well as in one's
self, is difficult to penetrate; nothing but the power of divine grace can
reach it, and this requires not only waiting for, but also laboring to
overcome the wandering and unsettled thoughts to which the poor mind is
subject. Merciful Father, give me more confidence in the gift which, thou
hast bestowed on me, and favor me with a greater portion of strength to
minister thy word faithfully. "Who then is that faithful and wise steward
whom his Lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their
portion of meat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his Lord when
he cometh shall find so doing."--(Luke xii. 42, 43.)

Tenderly mindful of the religious wants of those whom they had lately
left, so early as the Seventh Month John and Martha Yeardley revisited the
several congregations in Pontefract Monthly Meeting. They were both
humbled and comforted in the course of this visit.

We were, says J.Y., united in sympathy to many dear friends within the
circle from whence we have removed, and I was strengthened to labor
according to the ability received from day to day.

Since this little journey, he continues, we have been pretty much at home
attending the meetings in course in the neighborhood. We are comfortably
settled in our new abode, which feels to us really a home as to the
outward in every respect; and in a religious sense we entirely believe it
is our right allotment for the present.

In this new halting-place of his earthly pilgrimage, John Yeardley
experienced an increase of freedom, of spirit, and of faith and joy in his
Saviour.

10 _mo_. 7.--For a few days past I have felt my mind raised above the earth
and fixed on heavenly things. I desire that the blessed Saviour may more
and more be the medium through which I may view every object as worthy [or
unworthy] the pursuit of a devoted Christian. I humbly trust this quietude
of mind is in answer to prayer; for I have long supplicated for a renewal
of faith, and that a little spiritual strength might he given me to rise
above the slavish fear of man. My heart was almost sick with doubting; but
on Fourth-day last a bright hope livingly sprang in my soul that I should
yet be favored to attain to greater liberty in the exercise of my gift in
the ministry, if I were fa