ministrations, but in his numerous and constant private visits among his
flock, and the members of his congregation.

Under a sermon by Mr. R., addressed specially to the young, the subject
of our sketch was powerfully wrought upon by the Holy Spirit, and
awakened to a right sense of his danger as a sinner. But he strove to
banish these convictions, and soon again became careless and indifferent
to the great concerns of his soul's salvation.

About this period Thomas's father, anxious that he should become decided
for God, told him he would send Mr. R. to visit him. But so averse was
Thomas from seeing him, that he declared should Mr. R. walk in at one
door, he would walk out at the other. However, Mr. R. called; and Thomas
did not, and could not, put his threat into execution. Mr. R. urged upon
him the danger of a course of sin,--the necessity and advantages of
seeking God in youth,--and begged him to join his class, which met at
seven o'clock on Sabbath mornings. Thomas promised to go; but when the
morning came he broke his promise, and remained at home. In the
succeeding week Mr. R. again called. Thomas again promised; and on the
following Sabbath met in class for the first time. In about a month after
joining the society, he was enabled to exercise faith in Christ, and
obtained a clear evidence of his acceptance with God: this took place on
a Sabbath evening, in company with one of his religious friends; while
they were pouring out their souls at the throne of grace, light from
heaven beamed upon his soul,--he was enabled to believe.

Connected with Thomas's joining the people of God, there is an incident
not unworthy of mention here. A short time previously he had, with his
elder brother James, paid a visit to their father's house. During that
visit, the subject of union with God's people was strongly urged upon