to God on my knees, in
supplication and thankfulness, that, after having been so long absent
from divine service, the first time I entered into a house dedicated to
his honour, should be with such blessed prospects before me; and
begging of God to continue me humble, and to make me not unworthy of
his mercies; and that he would be pleased to bless the next author of my
happiness, my good master.

I heard my master say, Where's Pamela? And so I broke off sooner than I
would, and went up to him.

He said, Mr. Williams, I hope I have not so offended you by my conduct
past, (for really it is what I ought to be ashamed of,) as that you will
refuse to officiate, and to give us your instructions here to-morrow.
Mr. Peters was so kind, for the first time, to offer it; but I knew it
would be inconvenient for him; and, besides, I was willing to make this
request to you an introduction to our reconciliation.

Sir, said he, most willingly, and most gratefully, will I obey you:
Though, if you expect a discourse, I am wholly unprepared for the
occasion. I would not have it, replied he, pointed to any particular
occasion; but if you have one upon the text--There is more joy in Heaven
over one sinner that repenteth, than over ninety-nine just persons that
need no repentance; and if it makes me not such a sad fellow as to be
pointed at by mine and the ladies' servants we shall have here, I shall
be well content. 'Tis a general subject, added he, makes me speak of
that; but any one you please will do; for you cannot make a bad choice,
I am sure.

Sir, said he, I have one upon that text; but I am ready to think, that
a thanksgiving one, which I made on a great mercy to myself, if I may be
permitted to make my own acknowledgments of your favour the subject of
a discourse, will be suitable to my grateful sentiments. It is on the
text;--Now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace; for mine eyes have
seen thy salvation.

That text, said I, will be a very suitable one for me. Not so, Pamela,
said my master; because I don't let you depart in peace; but I hope you
will stay here with content.

O but, sir, said I, I have seen God's salvation!--I am sure, added I,
if any body ever had reason, I have to say, with the blessed virgin, My
soul doth magnify the Lord; for he hath regarded the low estate of his
handmaiden--and exalted one of low degree.

Said my good father, I am sure, if there were time for it, the book of
Ruth would afford a