addition to this, it felt as if I had to mourn over the barren state of
some others. O, how I dread the state of a lukewarm Quaker! May I ever be
preserved from this sorrowful state of a lukewarm Quaker! I believe it is
often the means of bringing a damp over our solemn assemblies.

12 _mo._ 7.--_Query._ What is the most likely means for me to
adopt to approach nearer to holiness? _Answer._ To spend more time in
retirement silently to wait upon God. The more conversant I am with him,
the more I shall know of his will and receive power to do the same. To do
the will of the Almighty is the way to perfect holiness. The nearer
acquaintance we cultivate with him, the stronger will become the ties of
his affection. The more devoted we are to him, the more confidence will he
repose in us.


Catching then a glimpse of the glorious calling of the Gospel minister, he
breaks forth in the following strain:--


If I am ambitious in anything on earth, it is to be eminently useful in
His cause. I can say with the wise man, I ask neither riches nor honor,
except the honor which cometh from doing the will of God; but I do ask for
"an understanding heart." I trust I can say in the deepest sincerity that
I could renounce, if they were in my power, the riches and honor of ten
thousand earthly worlds in purchase of a double portion of that holy
unction which rested on Elisha's spirit. These are bold sayings, but my
Saviour tells me that as there is no limitation to his goodness to grant,
so there is no limitation in asking of him for the gift of his Holy
Spirit. But then what manner of man ought this to be on whom shall be
conferred such great honor! Surely it must be left to Himself to prepare