things of time, I have neglected the
all-important matters of eternity. Since I have lain upon this sick-bed
I have tried to repent, and I trust I do feel sorry for my sins; but,
somehow, I do not find the comfort I seek. Would that you could tell me
what to do Walter." Can this softened and subdued man, thought I, be
the same of whom I once stood in so much fear. As well as I was able
I directed him to the sinner's only hope, the merits of a merciful
Saviour; while, at the same time, I referred him to many comforting
Bible-promises; which, when I had read, he said: "Do you think, Walter,
those promises can be meant for me, who have neglected my Bible and been
careless and worldly all my life long?" For answer, I directed his
attention to the promise which says: "He that cometh unto me I will in
no wise cast out." He requested me to pray with him. I have never before
prayed save in the retirement of my own room, and I felt a degree of
diffidence at the thought of praying in the presence of others, but I
overcame the feeling, and, kneeling down, I forgot the physician as well
as others who listened to me, and lifted up my voice in solemn earnest
prayer. I forgot everything but the God before whom I pleaded. I prayed
that were it the will of Providence, he might be restored to health;
but, if not, that he might, in believing on the Saviour, find a comfort
which would enable him to triumph even over the terrors of death. When I
rose from my knees, he seemed more composed, and, after remaining silent
for a short time, he addressed me with much earnestness, saying: "It
seems to me, Walter, that I _must_ see my two boys, before I die. Send
for them at once. I drove them from me by my harshness, years ago. Send
for them at once, and I hope my life maybe spared to see them once
more." He held my hand long at parting, saying: "You have done me good,
Walter, and I do begin to have a hope that my Heavenly Father will have
mercy upon me and receive me, not for any merit of my own, but through
the merits of that Saviour who died for the salvation of repentant and
believing sinners." Learning the address from Mrs. Judson, I at once
dispatched a telegraph message to the two sons, and four days later they
arrived, to mingle their tears at the death-bed of their father, from
whom they had so long been estranged. It was evident, from day to day,
that Mr. Judson was failing fast; but, as his bodily strength wasted
away, a most happy change