The Lives of Sundry Eminent Persons, Part 1 · Biography 14

The Lives of Sundry Eminent Persons · Part 1 · Biography 14

p. 138The Life and Death of Mr. Joseph Allein, who Died Anno Christi, 1669.

JOseph Allein was born in the Devizes, in Wiltshire, Anno Christi 1633. In his His Birth.Childhood he shewed forth a singular sweetness of disposition, and a remarkable diligence in every thing he was imployed about. When he was about eleven years old he was noted to be very constant in private Prayer, and so serious and intent in it, that he would not be diverted, or taken off by the coming of any accidentally His early seeking of God.into the places of his retirement. This and other fruits of a serious and gracious Spirit were the concurrent observation of those in the Family. From this time the whole course of his youth was an even-spun Thred of agedly conversation, which was rendred more amiable by his sweet an pleasant deportment towards all with whom he conversed.

About this time, his Brother, (Mr: Edward Allein) a worthy Minister of the Gospel, dyed. whereupon our Joseph earnestly desired that he might be trained up to succeed him in the Work of the Ministery; which request was readily hearkned unto by his Father, who accordingly set him to School; and such was his diligence and industry there, that the time alotted to recreation was by him spent at his Book; His diligence and industry.insomuch as in the space of about four years, he attained to such a measure of Knowledge and Learning in the Latin and Greek Tongues, that he was judged by his Master to be fit for the University: After which, he abode for some time with his Father; and a worthy Minister of the Place read Logick to him.

When he was about sixteen years old he went to the University, and was placed in Lincoln Colledge in Oxford, where he had not been long, before a Wiltshire Place He goes to the University.becoming void in Corpus Christi Colledge, he was chosen Scholar of that house, his own merits and worth, not any sinister, or indirect means bringing him in.

Being thus setled there, he gave early and excellent proofs of his indefatigableness and industry in his Studies, accounting it his great happiness that he had His industry.gained this opportunity of improving his Learning: And truly he spared no labour day nor night; he thought all time too little, no pains too great which he imployed for that end; by his good will he would do nothing else but pray and study: If Friends came to visit him in studying times, (tho at other times he was very civil and sociable in his converse with them) tho they were sure to find him within, yet not sure that he would let them in. He could seldom be found in Bed after four a Clock in the Morning, no, tho sometimes he went not to Bed till about One; and when he had opportunities of procuring sleeping days for others, yet would he not indulge one to himself.

So covetous was he of time, that as he could scarce spare any for sleep, so neither for food: It was common with him to give away his Commons, at least once a day, Time precious.that he might gain the more time to his Study. When he had left the University and was married, an intimate Friend of his (who had thoughts of changing his condition) wrote to him for an account of the inconveniences of Marriage; to whom he merrily returned this Answer, Thou would'st know the inconveniences of a Wife, and I will tell thee some of them; Whereas now thou risest constantly about four a Clock in the Morning, a Wife will keep thee till about six; whereas thou usest to study about fourteen hours in a Day, she will bring thee to eight or nine; and whereas thou art wont to forbear one Meal a Day at least for thy Studies, she will bring thee to thy Meat; and if these be not mischiefs enow to affright thee from Marriage, I know not what will.

By this his diligence and sedulity in his studies, he came on (through Gods blessing) exceedingly in Learning, so that his profiting appeared unto all men. He would His proficiency.often say, that he cheifly affected Rational Learning, valuing Skill in the Languages only for the sake of Things, and those things most, which were of all most likely to improve his Judgment; and the truth of his words was sufficiently evident; for all that were acquainted with him knew him to be, as a good Linguist, so an acute p. 139Disputant, and an excellent Philosopher: When he performed any Academical Exercises, either in the Hall or in the Schools, he always came off with Applause, or at least with the Approbation of all but the Envious, who yet had nothing to say against him.

His pregnant Parts and early Accomplishments where so taken notice of, that no sooner was he a Batcheller of Arts, but he was even compell'd to become a Tutor, and presently was intrusted with as great a number of Pupils as any in the House: Some of his Scholars were Graduates in Divinity, and singular Ornaments to that Society, and profitable Instruments in the Church of Christ. During his abode there, a Chaplain's Place falling void, he chose that before a Fellowship, which, he knew, in a little time would fall unto him of Course; and this choice he never repented of; yea, he oft reflected upon it with a great deal of content and comfort; For he had always a very ardent affection for Prayer, insomuch as he and his Friend could hardly meet, but before they parted, at his request they must also pray together: What a pleasure than was it to him, twice a day to engage a whole Society in so dear and beloved His love of Prayer.an Exercise: And well was it for the Colledge that he so esteemed it: Scarce was it possible that any could have performed that Office better than he did; He did not trouble them with a great deal of noise, vain Tautologies, crude Effusions, unintelligible sense, or mysterious nonsense instead of Prayer: His Spirit was serious, his Gesture reverent, his Words few, but premeditated and well weighed, pithy, solid, and fully expressive of his truly humble and earnest desires: He hated the sauciness, which some call holy bouldness, and drew near to God, not as if he had been going to play with his Mate, but as became a Creature over-awed with the Majesty of his His manner of praying.great Creator: He prayed with the Spirit, and with the Understanding also: He confessed Sin with real grief, inward hatred and detestation of it: He craved mercies like one that felt the want and worth of what he begged, with faith, fervency and humble importunity; his affections working, but working rationally as well as strongly.

And this (as doubtlesly it prevailed above) so on the Hearers it had the more powerful insluence, because they found it to be no meer Religious fit but exactly agreeable to His Devotion.the habitual frame and disposition of the Speaker. There are too many, who whilst praying and preaching appear very demure, and mighty devout; but take them out of the Pulpit, and they are as light, vain and frothy as any others; But it was far otherwise with Mr. Allein; he was always composed, serious and grave, above his Age; he set God always before him, and where ever he was, he still laboured to walk as in his presence: It was his care to make Religion his business, and his great endeavours to walk by Rule: His main design in all his ways, was to approve himself to his Heavenly Father which saw all in secret; and his Exercise was, to keep a Conscience void of offence, both towards God and towards Man.

As for the pleasures and delights of Sin, he utterly abhorred them: yea, was so much Sin abhorred.above them, that he could not endure them. How sweet was it to him (as Saint Austin said) istis suavitatibus carere, To want those sweets? And as for lawful delights and pleasures, tho somtimes he entertained himself with them, yet was his Heart little taken with them. His conversation being in Heaven his sweetest Comforts, and most Divine refreshments were holy and heavenly: His Soul took many a delightful prospect of Eternity, and hugged herself in a comfortable perswasion, that ere long she should enjoy those glorious Mansions; and this made him little to mind earthly Glory, or the poor empty delights of Sense.

He was of a very sweet disposition, and of as highly civil a Conversation, as a His Assability.Man subject to the common frailties of humane Nature could be: He had scarce a Gesture which did not seem to speak, and by a powerful and charming Rhetorick, affect all whom he conversed with: Besides other moral perfections that he was endowed with, it might be truly said (as the Historian said of the Emperor for his Clemency) that he was Totus ex Commitate, made up, as it were, of nothing else but courtesie and affability.

He was a true and faithful Friend to those who had interest in him, and withal, as pleasant as a serious Christian could well wish: He was not rash in choosing, but A true Friendhaving chosen he loved intirely. There was no more but one only thing which he thought too much for any, for whom he thought not his Love too good; He could not sin (knowingly and willingly) for any Friend he had on Earth: He was a Friend p. 140Ʋsque ad aris; So far as lawfully, and Conscientiously he might do any thing, he stuck at nothing, wherein he might serve or gratifie those whom he loved.

Yet whilst to his Friends he shewed himself Friendly, good Nature as well as His Charity.Christianity, obliged him to be kind to all, and (according to his ability) to the poor, bountiful. He was too frugal to misplace his Charity, yet not so Covetous as to withold it when he met with fit objects. He did not think the little he had so much his own, as that his necessitous Brethren might not claim a part in it, and therefore he gave to them as if he had been paying a debt, and not bestowing an Almes. But above all, his Love and Affection to the Souls of others was most admirable, Charity to Souls.to whom he desired and endeavoured to do all the good possible, insomuch as some there were, and are, who do verily think that they should never have found the way to Eternal Life, if he had lived to himself, and not for the good of others. His Charity to the poor Prisoners in Oxford Gaol was very eminent, amongst whom (as Holy Mr. Perkins did at Cambridge) of his own accord, he began to Preach, and held on constantly (whilst he remained in the Town) once a fortnight, for above the space of twelve Months; encouraging them to give attendance upon his Ministry, by a considerable allowance of Bread, (that week he Preached) at his own cost and charges. He used also at other times, frequently to visit others, who in the world were but mean and low: His main design (together with the Relieving of their Temporal wants) being to assist their Souls in the way to Heaven. Indeed in all his converses, where ever he came, he was like fire, warming, refreshing, and His Communicativeness.quickening all that were about him; kindling in them the like zeal for God and goodness, which he had in himself: None there were that came to visit, or to be acquainted with him, but (if the fault were not in themselves,) they might get much good by him; yea, so much as to be for ever the better for him. It was hardly possible to be in his Company, and not to hear such things from him, as (if well weighed) might have been enough to make one out of conceit with sin, and in love with virtue so long as one lived. He thought that day wholly lost wherein none had got some good by him. He lived as if he had been quickened with that saying of Tertullian, Quid prodest esse, quod esse non prodest? To what purpose is it to Live, and not to live to some good purpose? His ardent Love to Souls hastened his remove into the Country, where he might have opportunities of doing much good.

Mr. Richard Allen, a near Relation of his, gives this Character of him.

As a Man (saith he) he was of quick natural parts, and of great acquired abilities. His Character.Of a grave, composed, and serious temper and behaviour: Not Morose, but full of Candour, Free, Affable, Chearful, and Courteous.

As a Christian, he was in Holiness, Heavenly-mindedness, and Exemplariness of Life, much clevated above the ordinary sort of Christians. He had much delightfull Communion with God, his Soul was much exercised in Divine Contemplation: And to provoke others to the like exercise, he would often speak what ineffable sweetness and satisfaction his Soul had found in his stated Meditations upon the Divine Attributes distinctly, one by one. In Prayer he was not ordinarily so much in Confessing of sin, and complaining of Corruption and Infirmities (tho he expressed a due sense of these) as in admiring and praising God in his infinite Glorious perfections, and in the mention of his wonderful works, perticularly of those wonders of his Love revealed in Jesus Christ.

His whole Life also was beautified and adorned with the admirable Lustre of his perticular, Personal Graces. As

First, He was made up of Love. His sweet, amiable, and courteous carriage was such as made him the delight of his acquaintance, and it made way for the entertainment, His Love.both of his serious Counsels, and severe reproofs. His compassion to those in distress: His bounty to those in want, His forbearance in case of offences: His affectionate Language, and deportment: His readiness to all obliging Offices of Love to all sorts with whom he conversed, did evidently shew how he loved them. Especially his Love was more fully let forth to the Congregation where he exercised his Ministry. His ardent Longings after their Souls: His rejoycings in the Prosperity of their Souls: His bleedings, and heart-breakings for their falls and infirmities: His uncessant Labours among them, both publickly, and from House to House: His frequent and affectionate Letters to them when he was absent: His p. 141earnest desire to Live, to die, and to be buried among them, do all shew what a great room they had in his heart.

Secondly, He was a Man of Courage: He feared no danger in the way of his His courage.Duty, knowing that he that walks uprightly, walks surely. In doubtful Cases he was inquisitive; but when once resolved, he was fearless. He feared not the faces of Men, but where just occasion was, he would boldly admonish, and faithfully reprove what he saw amiss, which ungrateful duty he managed with so much prudence, and with such expressions of Love and Compassion to their Souls, as made His prudence.way into their hearts, and made his work the more successful.

Thirdly, He was a Son of Peace: A zealous peace-maker among Bretheren in case of dissention: And of sober and peaceful principles: Of a healing Spirit as to His peaceableness.factions upon the account of Religion. He had a Reverend esteem of Magistrates, abhorring all provoking and insolent Expressions, or Mutinous actions against them.

Fourthly, He was a great lover of Truth and Righteousness in his own practice, His righteousness.and a great presser of them upon others, especially upon Professors of Religion; whom he exhorted to be just in their dealings, and true in their words: Wary in promising, and punctual in performing. Oft did he bewall and sharply reprove promise breaking, and deceitful dealing.

Fifthly, His patience was very Exemplary. Not only in his sufferings from Men; His patience.But in the time of his long and great weakness and Languishing distempers, which lay upon him for some years, yet all that while he had a constant calmness and serenity of Spirit, and was so far from murmuring, or discontent, that he was still blessing God for dealing so gently, and tenderly with him.

Sixthly, He was eminent in Liberality: He not only did, but devised Liberal His liberality.things. He studied, and considered how he might both give himself, and how he might procure others to give relief to those that were in want. He dayly gave much Almes, both in the place where he lived, and where ever he came. When Collections were made for Pious, or Charitable uses, he stirred up others, both by his Exhortations and Example; and sometimes made addition in secret to what he had given publickly. He was very bountiful to many of his Relations who were fallen into decay: Yet his means was not above eighty pounds a year: Only his Wife, for divers years kept a Boarding School, which did considerably enlarge his Estate. He took great pains in Riding abroad to Gentlemen, and other rich Men to procure a standing maintenance for Non-Conforming Ministers that were in want.

Seventhly, He was of an active Spirit: He went about doing good; and as he His activity.was incessant in his Labours in the Congregation where he lived, so where ever he came he would be scattering some good seed, not only among those of riper years, but among the Children where he came, asking them Questions; giving them Counsel, which sometimes he left in writing among them. Especially in his own Family, among his Wives Boarders, he so deported himself that in many of them he begat the awe and Love as of Children to their Fathers.

Whilst he lay sick at the Bath he sent for many poor persons, both Aged, and Children, and gave them Catechisms, engaging them to learn, and to give him an account of their proficiency therein, and they came chearfully and willingly to him, being encouraged thereunto by his Familiar and winning carriage, his giving them Mony, and by feeding and feasting them.

Eighthly, He was very Humble. Tho God had highly exalted him in the hearts His humility.and Judgments of others, yet was he low in his own eyes, and despised the praise of Men. His whole deportment favoured of Humility, and he was of a great Condescention to the weekest and meanest,

As a Minister, besides his Labors in that great Congregation where the Lord had His great labors.placed him, the care of many other Churches lay dayly upon him. He went abroad frequently into other Parishes about the Country, amongst poor ignorant People that lived in dark Corners, having none to take care of their Souls, preached to them himself, and stirred up many of his Brethren to do the like, whose forward minds readily joyned with him in setting up Lectures in several places. He had an Eye to the poor Welch, and had an influence upon sending some Ministers among them, Intending also to have spent some time among them himself, and was hardly withheld p. 142from it by all the perswasions of his friends, who told him his inability to Travel by reason of the great weakness that he lay under.

The reading of this did so inflame the zeal of my Reverend Brother Mr. Thomas Gouge (as himself told me) that he was restless in his Spirit, till (having setled his affairs about London) he had liberty, and opportunity to prosecute this design: Since which time he hath made many Journies both into South and North Wales, where he hath done much good, and by the help of divers of his Reverend Brethren in the Ministry, and many others, hath placed out many Hundreds of poor Children to School to learn English, hath given them Catechisms, and other good Books: Besides Bibles and New-Testaments in Welch, and hath procured the Printing of Welch Bibles (whereof there were very few to be had,) of the Practice of Piety, &c. To be distributed among them, as is well known to many who have put to their helping hands to promote so excellent, and worthy a work:

See what Testimony Mr. George Newton, the Reverend Pastor of Tawnton, gives of Mr. Newtons Testimony of him.Mr. Jos. Allein, whose assistant he was. Mr. Joseph Allein (saith he) came to my assistance, Anno Christi, 1655. being then about one and twenty years old, and we continued together, till the Black day came. He was a young Man of singular-accomplishments, both natural and acquired. His intellectuals solid, his memory strong, his affections lively, his learning much beyond the ordinary size: And above all, his holiness was eminent; his conversation exemplary; and in brief, he had a good head and a better heart.

Much of his time he spent in private converses with God and his own Soul: His secret duties.He much delighted to perform secret Devotions in the sight of Heaven, and in the open air, when his opportunities served. Many dayes he kept alone, and then (by his good will) he would betake himself to a solitary House, probably, that he might freely use his voice as his affections led him to, (which he could not have done where there were Inhabitants) and that he might converse with God without avocation and distraction.

His society with others was alwayes mingled with holy and heavenly discourses. His reproofs.He took all opportunities to instruct, exhort, and reprove, which he never failed to do (when he judged it necessary) whatever the event might prove. And truly his reproofs were accompained with such humility tenderness, Self-Condemnation, and compassion, that they seldom, if ever did miscarry.

In the Houses where he sojourned his Lips fed many, God freely poured grace into His usefulness where ever he came.his lips, and he freely poured it out to others. None could live quietly in any open sin under his inspection. When he came to abide in any House, he brought Salvation with him, and when he departed, he left Salvation behind him. When he was transplanting himself from one Family to an other, (as his occasions sometimes required) he would call all the People, one by one into his Chamber, from whence (it was observed) that scarce any one returned with dry eyes.

In the duties of the first Table he was very exemplary, and near to rigour. His He respected all Gods Commandments.Righteousness exceeded even tha… of the Pharisees: Yet also was he as exact in the duties of the second Table: A Man of morals; Never spotted with any unjust, or uncharitable act. The failing of many Professors in this kind, drew from him many Prayers, Tears, Complaints, and Lamentation.

He had an eminent free and bountiful heart, to his power, yea, and beyond his power, as is before expressed. He did good to all; especially to the Houshold of His bounty.Faith: He was full of holy projects, for the advancement of both Spiritual and Temporal good of others, which he so vigorously and prudently prosecuted, that they seldom miscarried.

He was a Man of extraordinary condescention to the Infirmities of weaker Brethren, His humility.and used to deal with them in so humble, loving and sweet a way, as considering himself, lest he also might be tempted. In their Confessed failings he was not Supercilious and censorious, but laboured to restore them with the Spirit of meekness. He believed and hoped all things that were to be believed and hoped: And when he deeply condemned the action, he would not Judge of the Estates of the Person. And tho he was sufficiently mild in his Judgment of others, yet was he severe enough in his Judgment of himself.

In matters doubtful and disputable, he was not peremptory: He laid not more His holy prudence.weight and stress upon Notions, and Opinions in Religion than belonged to them: p. 143He was not like many who are over-confident in their determinations, that they will hardly hold Communion, nay, scarce so much as a pleasing Conversation, with any Man (how gracious soever) who cannot think, and speak, and act as they do in every thing. He would freely and familiarly converse with those, who were sound in the Faith (as to the Fundamentals of Religion,) and Holy in their lives, of all perswasions.

His Ministerial imployments were more facile to him than to many others, being His Ministerial abilities.of a quick conceit, of a ready, strong and faithful memory; of a free, and nervous expression; and (above all) having a holy heart that was alwayes boiling up with good Matter. He was apt to Preach and Pray, and ready on all occasions to lay out himself in such work; tho his warning sometimes was very short, he confidently cast himself upon the Lords assistance, who had never failed him, and so went freely about his work without distractions.

He began upon a very considerable stock of Learning, having gifts both Ministerial His learning and improvement.and personal, much beyond the proportion of his years, and grew exceedingly in his abilities and graces in a little time, so that his profiting appeared unto all Men; and he waxed very rich in Heavenly Treasure, by Gods blessing on a diligent hand, so that he was behind in no good gift. God blessed him with all Spiritual blessings in Heavenly things, and he returned all to Heaven again. He served God with all his might, and with all his strength. He was abundant in the work of the Lord: He did not go but run the wayes of Gods Commandments. He did run, and was not weary; He did walk and was not faint. He pressed hard towards the mark till he attained it. His race was swift and short, and his end glorious.

He was insatiably greedy of the Conversion of Souls, wherein he had no small His zeal.success in the course of his Ministry: And to promote this end he poured out his very heart in Prayer and Preaching. He imparted, not the Gospel only, but his own Soul to his hearers. His Supplications and Exhortations were many times so affectionate, so full of holy zeal, and Life, that they quite overcame his Auditors. He so melted over them, that he thawed, mollified, and sometimes dissolved the hardest hearts. But while he melted others he wasted, and at last consumed himself.

He was not satisfied with these his publick employments, but constantly went from House to House, and there perticularly (where he had a free Reception) dealt He went from house to house.both with Governours, Children and Servants, instructing them especially in the great fundamentals, both of the Law and Gospel, whom he found to be ignorant: Gently reproving where he found any thing amiss: Exhorting them to diligence, both in their general and perticular Callings. And where he found any defective in it, he earnestly intreated them to set up the Worship of God in their Families, and to make them little Churches by their constant reading of the Word of God, that so the Word of Christ might dwell Richly in them; as also by a careful Catechising both of Children, and Servants, and (according to the Governors abilities) that they should, by conference, Repetition of Sermons, and especially by Morning and Evening Prayer, avoid that dreadful indignation which hangs over the heads of those families which call not upon the Name of Lord. He inspected, so far as he could, into the state of every perticular person, and accordingly Reproved, The benefit of it.comforted, and encouraged as he found occasion: Yet all, with so much tenderness, humility and self denial that he gained much upon the affections of all that entertained him, and wrought them at least to an outward Conformity; insomuch as such as were not visited at the first, at length came forth and called upon him to come and help them also.

Thus did he wear out himself to give light and heat unto others. He allowed himself too little sleep to Recruit those Spirits which he had wasted with labor His early rising.and wakening. He rose constantly at four a clock in the Morning at farthest, and that in the cold winter time, that having had Communion with God he might be the earlier at his other studies and imployments.

He was a very grave, strict, serious Composed young Man, yet not rigid in his principles. His Moderation was known to all that knew him. He held that Separation His moderation.in a Church was many times necessary, from the known corruptions of it: But allowed not separation from a Church, where active compliance with some sinful evil, was not made the condition of Communion.

p. 144When he Catechised the greater sort in publick, he began with Prayer for a His Catechising.blessing upon that duty. Then having propounded some Questions out of the Assemblies Catechism, his care was, not only to make them perfect in rehearsing the Answers there set down, but also to bring them to a clear understanding of the sence and meaning of the said Answers, and of all the Terms and Phrases in which they were expressed: And to draw some practical inferences from the same. He farther instructed them, by proposing several other Collateral Questions. besides those in the Catechism, which himself had before drawn up, and sent them in writing.

In the Evening of each Lords day, he used to repeat his Sermon in the Church to which very many people resorted, and when he had done, some Youths were His Repetitions.called forth who gave him an account of all the Heads of his Sermon by their Memories.

When he went from House to House, he used to give them notice the day before: Desiring that he might have admitance, and that they would have their whole Family together against he came: Which being done, he used to instruct the younger His private instructions.sort in the principles of Religion, by asking Questions out of the Catechism, the answers whereunto he used to open, and explain. He used also to enquire of them about their Spiritual Estate, laboring to make them sensible of the evil and danger of sin. Of the Corruption and depravation of our Natures, the misery of an Unconverted state; provoking them to look after the true Remedy proposed in the Gospel, to turn from all their sins unto God, to close with Christ upon his own terms, to follow after holiness, to watch over their hearts and lives, to mortifie their Lusts, to redeem their time, and to prepare for Eternity. These things he explained to their understandings, and pressed upon their Consciences with the most cogent Arguments and Considerations he possibly could; Shewing what great priviledges they did injoy, the many Gospel Sermons they did or might hear, the many Talents they were entrusted withal; and the great account they were to give unto God of the same, &c. Besides, he left with them several Counsels and Directions to be carefully remembred and practised for the good of their Souls.

Such as were serious and Religious he used to help forward in Holiness, by answering His prudence.their doubts, resolving their cases, and encouraging them against their difficulties and discouragments: And before he left them he used to deal with the Governors, and with such as were grown up to years of discretion singly and a part, that so, (as much as possibly he could) he might know the condition of each perticular person, and the better apply himself to each of them. If he found them to neglect Family duties, he used to press them to set them up, by reading the word of God and Prayer, giving them directions therein, and exhorting them to the practice of secret Duties. He also perswaded Mistresses of Families to give their Children and Servants time for such secret duties, and to encourage them therein: And sometimes himself would pray with them before his departure. If the Family where he came was ignorant, he would insist the longer in instructing, and Catechising: If loose, in reproving and convincing; if Godly in encouraging and directing.

He used to spend five afternoons every weak in these exercises, from one or two His great success.a clock till seven: In which space he used to visit thr… or four Families, sometimes more as they were Greater or less. Thus he went through the whole Town, and then presently began again: And he did often bless God for the great success that he found in these Exercises; saying, that God made him hereby as instrumental to the good of Souls as by his publick Ministry.

He was a faithful Reprover of the miscarriages of Professors, whether high or His reproof.low, Ministers or private Christians; Yea, tho they were never so dear unto him, or never so obliging in their carriage towards him, whatsoever the issue and event might prove. Tho he was but a young Man, yet was his deportment very serious and grave. He was Humble, Courteous, and Affable, Condescending to discourse with the Poorest and meanest for their Spiritual good, as soon as with the highest and richest. He was full of Holy projects by what wayes and means he might most effectually promote the Honour of Christ, and the Salvation of Souls, and what he judged to be conducing to these ends, he prosecuted with the p. 145Wisdom and vigour, that he seldom failed to accomplish it.

He considering how much the Conscientious and frequent performance of the About selfe examination.duty of Self-examination might tend to the weakning of sin, and to the furtherance of Holiness both in Heart and Life, he earnestly pressed this practice in his publick Ministry; directing his hearers for the performance of it: He dealt also with them in private about it, and drew a promise from most of them, that they would every night, before they went to sleep, spend some time in secret, to call themselves to an account how they had spent that day, by proposing several Questions to their own hearts, which he had drawn up in writing, and Communicated unto them under several Heads; and many confessed that this practice had been very advantagious unto them in their Christian walk.

Before the Act of Uniformity came forth, he was very earnest with God day and night, to make his way plain unto him, that he might not be deprived of his present advantages of saving Souls, with any scruple upon his Conscience: But when His Non-Conformity.he saw those Clauses of Assent and Consent, and renouncing the Covenant, he was fully satisfied against it; whereas before he was so doubtful that his intimate friends thought that he would have conformed, saying that he would not leave his Ministry for small and dubious matters: Yet tho he must quit his Station, he judged that the Ejection of the Ministers out of their places did not disoblige them from Preaching to their people, nor the people from attending upon their Ministry: And tho upon that Black and Dismal Sabbath, he took his leave of his beloved People; yet he firmly resolved to go on with his work of Preaching in private, and Visiting from House to House, till he should be sent to Prison, or into Banishment. And accordingly he prosecuted this resolution, appointing the Thursday following to be a day of Humiliation, where he Preached in his own House to as many as durst adventure to hear him; but there was not such an appearance as he expected: Whereupon he applyed himself to those who were most timerous, labouring to give satisfaction to their scruples, and it pleased God, in a short time to give him such good success, that his own people waxed bold, and Multitudes resorting to his Meetings, whether they were by day or night, which so encouraged him that he went on vigorously in Preaching, Visiting, and Catechising from house to house.

He went also frequently into the Villages, and places about the Town, whence most of their Ministers were fled, or at least, desisted for some considerable time; His indesatiagbleness.and where ever he came, the Lord was pleased to give him great success: Many were Converted, and the generality encouraged to cleave close unto the Lord.

This much heigthened the rage of some Neighbour Justices, who much threatned His Enemies.and oft sought for him: But it pleased God that he was preserved out of their hands longer than he expected. His usual saying was, that if it pleased the Lord to grant him but three Months Liberty before he went to Prison, he should account it a great favour, and should more willingly submit to it when he had done some work. Then did he sell off his Goods the better to prepare for a Gaol or Banishment, only he was desirous that his Wife should accompany him, which also was her great desire, it being more grievous to her to think of being absent from him, than to suffer with him.

The Lord was pleased so far to indulge him, that he went on in this course from Bartholomew day, til May the 26th. following, tho he was often threatened, yet was he never interrupted, tho many, both of Town and Country came flocking to his His frequent Preaching.Meetings at what time soever they were held. He seldom missed of Preaching twice a Sabbath, and often in the week. Sometimes he Preached fourteen times in eight days: Often ten, and ordinarily six or seven, either at home or abroad, during all this time, besides his frequent discoursings with such as resorted to him: And for the better enabling him hereunto, he laid aside all his other Studies, expecting that his time and liberty would be but short. And truly the Lord did more than ordinarily assist him, as himself took notice, as well as all that heard him and conversed with him.

Upon a Saturday in the Evening, about six a clock, he was seized upon by an Officer of Taunton, who professed that he had rather have been otherwise employed, but that he was urged to a speedy Execution of the Warrant, by one who was sent on purpose to see it Executed, because they feared that none in the Town would do it.

p. 146The Warrant was signed by three Justices, who required his present appearance His apprehension.at one of their Houses, about two Miles off from Taunton. He desired liberty to stay and Sup with his Family, expecting but hard entertainment whether he was going; yet this small courtesie was denyed him, till one of the Chief in the Town was bound for his speedy Appearance: At Supper he fed heartily, and was very chearful, yet full of holy and gracious discourses, suitable to the time and Company that were with him. After supper, having prayed with his Family and Friends present, himself with the Officer, and two or three friends that accompanied him, went to the appointed place, where they charged him with breaking the Act of Ʋniformity by his frequent Preaching since it took place: This he denyed, saying, that he had neither Preached in Church, Chappel, nor in any other place of publick Worship, since that time, and that what he did was in his own Family, and with such friends as came to hear him.

Then they charged him for being at a Riotous Assembly: He answered, that at their Meetings were used no Threats, no dangerous Words, no Staves, or Weapons, neither were any put into fear, their only employment being Prayer and He is abused.Preaching. Here they much abused him with Scoffs and Scorns, the very Justices themselves with their Ladies, and such others as came to hear his Examination. One of them called him Rogue, and said that he deserved to be hanged, and that if he were not hanged, he would be hanged for him; and many other scurrilous expressions they used, which would but defile the paper if they were set down. They urged him much to be his Self-Accuser, but could not draw him to it, notwithstanding which, they made a Mittimus to send him to the Gaol upon Munday Morning after they had detained him with them till twelve a Clock in the night.Commited.

When he came home, which was about two a clock in the Morning, he lay down on his Bed about two or three hours, and then arising, he retired himself with God till about eight a clock: At which time several Friends were come to visit him, to whom he would have Preached, but that he was not suffered by the Officer, who had a strict charge to the contrary: Yet he spent the day in discoursing with the several Companies of his Friends, who out of the Town and Country came to Visit him; and as he could be permitted, he prayed oft with them. All this while he was very chearful in Spirit, admiring Gods Mercies to him, and encouraging all that came to see him to be bold and resolute in the cause of God and his Gospel, and for their Souls, and not to be discouraged for what befel him for their sakes. As for himself, he said, that he was nothing at all moved for it, nor did in the least, repent of any thing that he had done, but accounted himself happy, and under that promise which Christ makes to his Mat. 5. 10. &c. That he should be doubly and trebly happy, now that he was to suffer for his sake. He was also earnest with his Brethren in the Ministry that came to see him, that they should not at all desist from their Labours when he was gone, and that there might not be one Sermon the less in Taunton for his absence. He exhorted also the people, that they should attend upon the Ministry with greater ardency, dilligence, and courage than before, assuring them how sweet and comfortable it was to him to consider how much he His courage.had done for God in those last Months: Adding that he was going to Prison full of Joy, being confident that all these things would turn to the furtherance of the Gospel, and the glory of God.

Mr. Allein was not satisfied to go away till he had left some Exhortations with his people, and therefore requested them to come to him about one or two a clock in the night, and notwithstanding the unseasonableness of the time, many Hundreds of old and young repaired to him with whom he spent about three hours in Prayer and Preaching. And so with many yearnings of Bowels they took their leaves each of other, wherein a more affectionate parting could scarce be seen.

On Munday Morning about nine a clock, he with two or three friends that desired He goes to Prison.to accompany him, went for Ilchester. As he went, the Streets of Taunton were beset on both sides with people, and many followed him on foot, some Miles out of the Town with great Lamentations, which he could scarce bear: Yet the Lord so strengthened him that he went through them all with great courage and Joy, endeavouring both by his words and countenance to encourage and chear them up.

He carried his Mittimus himself having no Officer with him, and when he came Himself carried his Mittimus.thither the Jaylor was not at home, which opportunity he took to Preach before p. 147he went into Prison, which his Adversaries accounted a great addition to his former Crimes. The Jaylor being come home, he gave him his Mittimus, and was by him put into the Bridewel-Chamber, where he found Mr. John Norman, late of Bridgwater, His Prison fellows.Committed a few days before him for the same cause: A Man he was of singular abilities, fervent in zeal and holy boldness for the cause of Christ: Constant to his principles in the most wavering times, and one, who for his Godly and Exemplary Conversation, was much esteemed among the people of God; and few that knew him, either of the sober Gentry or Commonalty, but for his choice parts, and spotless life had great respects for him.

There were also five more Ministers, and fifty Quakers, which had all their Lodgings in the same room, parted only with a Mat, which they had hung up for a little more retirement. Soon after Mr. Coven, Mr. Powel, and eight more were brought into the same place, being taken at Meetings. This added to the straitness of their room, and it was so nigh to the top of the Prison, that as they lay in their Beds they could touch the Tiles with their hands, which made it very irksome, the Sun lying upon the House all the day: Being so many of them together, besides the resort of many friends to them, they much wanted fresh air, till they had taken down His convenient Lodging.the glass and some of the Tiles, for their better refreshment. In this Room they were forced to lie, and to eat their food, having no other place to retire into but a little Garden, adjoyning to the place were all the Common Prisoners were. In their Chamber they were molested with the noise of those wretches, the ratling their Chains, the Blaspheming of their Tongues, their Roaring and Singing night and day being a great trouble to them. And if they went into the Courts of the Prison, there they met with the sent and sight of their Cloaths hanging full of vermin, and of the Prisoners in their Rags and Chains.

That also which most troubled them was that they had no place to retire into, neither alone nor together wherein they might have Communion with God. The Quakers Quakers wickedness.also much molested them, disturbing them with their Cavils in the times of Prayer, Preaching, and Singing, and would come and Work in their Callings just by them at such times, to their great grief. Want of air was most offensive to Mr. Allela, who had accustomed himself both in Oxford and the Country, to spend most of his secret hours in by-places in the fields or woods.

So soon as Mr. Allein came into Prison, he Prayed and Preached, which he called, He consecrates his Prison.the Consecration of it. And after a day or two he desired to have his Wife with him or near him in the Town, to attend him, and to keep Company with such Friends as came to visit him: Whereupon he prevailed with the Keeper to have one Corner to himself wherein to set his Bed, which was more private than the rest. About this he made a Partition with some Curtains, whereby he might be the more private, and it was a great comfort to him: And after a few weeks he procured leave of his Keeper, to walk out a Mile or more, Morning and Evening constantly, except the Weather, or his Keepers Churlishness did hinder him.

Their Diet was good and sufficient; sometimes abundant, by their Friends kindness Kind friends.to them. Here they Preached once a Day constantly: Sometimes twice, and many resorted to their Sermons, of which some came eight or ten Miles round about out of the Country, and multitudes came to visit them. Their Friends were exceeding kind to them, endeavouring by their frequent visits, by provisions of Food, and supplies of monies to take away the tediousness of their Imprisonment. Mr. His great labors.Alleins Labours were the greatest, who spent almost all the day in conversing with his friends, and a great part of the night in his studies, and secret duties.

Thus they continued for about four Months, and were tossed from Sessions to the He is brought to the Sessions.Assizes. July 14th. Mr. Allein was brought to the Sessions held at Taunton, and Indicted for Preaching on the 17th. of May precedeing; but the Evidence was so slender that the Grand Jury would not find the Bill, and thereupon, by the constant practice Acquited and yet imprisoned.of the Court, he should have been freed by Proclamation: Yet was he returned unto Prison till the Assizes: And to his Friends, who had hoped for his Deliverance, he said, Let us bless God that his Will is done, and not the Wills of such worms as we are.

August 24th. He was Indicted at the Assizes, and tho the Evidence was but the same with the former, yet now the Grand-Jury found the Bill, and he was brought To the Assizes.to the Bar, and his Indictment was Read, which was, that May 17th. 1663. He, p. 148together with twenty others to the Jurors unknown, did Riotously, Routously, and Seditiously assemble themselves together, contrary to the Peace of our Soveraign Lord the King, and to the great terrour of his Subjects, and to the evil Example of others, &c. To this he Answered, That as to Praying and Preaching he Found Guilty and …in….was Guilty, and did own them for his Duty: But as for Riotous, Routous, and Seditious Assemblies, he abhorred them from his heart, and of these he was not Guilty. Yet was he found Guilty by the Petty Jury, and by the Judge Sentenced to pay a hundred Marks, and to continue in Prison till it was paid. To this he only replyed: That he was glad that he had appeared before his Country: And that, whatsoever he was charged with, he was Guilty of nothing but doing his Duty; His Speech to the Judge.and that all which did appear by the Evidence was only that he had Sung a Psalm, and instructed his Family, where some others were, and both in his own House: And that, if nothing which had been urged would satisfie he should with all chearfulness and Thankfulness accept, whatsoever Sentence his Lordship should pronounce upon him for so good, and Righteous a cause. From hence he was carried back to Prison, where he continued a whole year wanting three days.

Winter coming on, which they feared would make this place as cold as it had been hot in Summer (the Chamber having no Chimney in it) they endeavoured, and His remove to the Ward.with some difficulty obtained to be removed to the Ward, where they had more comfortable accommodations in all respects. Here they had very great Assemblies, both on week days and Sabbaths, and many days of Humiliation, and Thanksgiving; and tho they were much threatened both by the Judges and Justices to be sent beyond-Sea, or carryed to some remote Island, where they should be kept close Prisoners; yet the Lord prevented it, and so ordered it, that their Imprisonment turned to his greater glory, and to the furtherance of the Gospel, by their great labors, to which God added a great Blessing: And Mr. Alleins sufferings did not in the least abate his Zeal, and Activity for God, but he embraced all opportunities His zeal and activity.of doing good. The Minister who was appointed, at some times to Preach to the Felons, falling sick, Mr. Allein freely supplyed his room as long as he could be permitted, earnestly exhorting them that by Repentance, and Faith they would secure the Eternal welfare of their Souls. He was very forward to promote the Education of young persons, both in Ilchester, and in the Country adjacent; for which His care for young persons.end he gave Catechisms to many Poor Families, that they might be instructed in the principles of Religion, exhorting the Elder to teach and encourage the Younger. He was a serious and faithful Monitor to his Fellow-sufferers, if he saw in them any thing which became not the Gospel for which they suffered.

He was now, as formerly, a careful Redeemer of his time, rising about four a clock Redeeming time.in the Morning, and spending a considerable time in Meditation and Prayer, and then following his studies close in some Corner of the Prison where he could be private: And sometimes he spent almost whole nights in these exercises, only lying down in his Cloths for an hour or two, and then up again. Those which visited him he did not entertain with frivolous and frothy discourses, but with such as His prudence.were profitable, and for their Edification, applying himself unto them according to their several capacities, exhorting them to such gracious practices, which by Reason of their age or temper, Calling or Condition, he judged them to be most defective in, and dehorting them from such evils, as he thought them most prone unto. He rejoyced that he was accounted worthy to suffer in the cause of Christ, and encouraged the timerous; by his own and others experience of Gods goodness beyond what they could have expected.

He carefully observed that Rule, Mat. 5. 44. Love your Enemies, bless them that His candor.curse you; Do good to them that hate you, and pray for them that despightefully use you, and persecute you. He never exclaimed against those who were the chiefest instruments of his Sufferings, but pityed and prayed with Saint Stephen; Lord lay not this sin to their charge. The greatest harm he wished them, was that they might be Converted, Sanctified, and their Souls saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.

During the time of his Imprisonment it could not be discerned that his health was impaired notwithstanding his incessant Labors. Yet, probably (as the Physicians afterwards judged) the foundation of that weakness which presently after surprized him, and occasioned his death, was then laid.

At his enlargement from Prison he was more earnest in his work than before: p. 149Yet willing to preserve his liberty among his people, who had no Minister that had the oversight of them, tho some came and Preached to them in his absence: And Multitudes resort to his Ministry.such Multitudes resorted to him, that he judged it necessary to divide them into four parts, resolving to Preach to them four times each Sabbath; But finding that to be beyond his strength, which was much decayed, he was fain to forbear it, and Preached only twice on the Sabbaths, yet oft on the week days besides, at home or abroad. He pressed all that feared God, especially such as were of a timerous Spirit, to be couragious and active for God, and to be much in mutual conversings together, now that their Ministers were withdrawn, and to be much in praises and Good Counsel.thanksgivings unto God, delighting themselves in him, and denying themselves for him, and resigning themselves, and all they did enjoy, to him, that the world might see, that they could live comfortably on a God alone, on his Attributes and promises, tho they should have nothing else left.

He much pressed the Unconverted to be more careful for the Salvation of their Charity to Souls.Souls, especially considering, that those were now removed, which longed for, and watched over their Souls, and they were fallen into the hands of such as wanted either skill or Will to promote their welfare: Shewing them, with most tender affections, what miserable Creatures they were whilst Unconverted, and how his heart did yearn for them: How he did pray and weep for them when they were asleep: How willingly he had suffered a years Imprisonment for them, nay, how readily he would shed his blood to procure their Salvation.

But it pleased the All-wise God to take him off from this eager pursuit of his work His first sickness.and designs for him, by Visiting him (in the latter end of August) with much weakness, within three Months after he came out of Prison. For being requested by a people, whose Pastor was absent, to Preach, and Administer the Sacrament unto them, the place being sixteen Miles off, he was so disabled by the Journy, that he could not perform both; yet, because many of them came far, he forced himself to Preach to them, tho to his great prejudice, and after three or four days, with much difficulty he returned home, and had the advise of the best Physicians thereabout, who, all of them judged that it proceeded from his abundant Labors, and Preaching too soon after his Meals, as he did, when he Preached four times a day. This had so abated the natural heat of his stomack that no food would digest, nor oft stay within him.

He felt no pain, but had a constant discomposure in his Stomach, and a failing of his His great weakness.Appetite, that for many weeks he could not bear the sent of Flesh-Meat, nor retain any Liquors or Broths, so that he consumed so fast, that his Life seemed to draw near to an end: But God was pleased so to bless the means that after two Months, he recovered of this distemper; yet, so lost the use of his arms that from October till April, he could neither put on or off his Cloaths, nor write any thing. His Physicians and Friends earnestly besought him to intermit his Labors, but could not prevail. For he continued to Preach once, and sometimes twice every Sabbath, and to visit from House to House all that Winter.

In the Spring God was pleased to restore unto him the use of his Arms, for Hopes of his Recovery.which he was exceeding thankful, and they had great hopes of his Recovery: And the Summer following, by making use of some Mineral Waters, near the Devizes, his strength was much encreased, and he found much good by them. But trusting too much to that strength, his weakness returned often upon him the next Winter, and more in the Spring following. Yet his fits continued not long at a time, so that he Preached, not according to, but even beyond his strength, at home and abroad: His indefatigableness.Sometimes going into remote places, where they had had no Meetings since the removal of their Ministers, which was about the space of two years: And he engaged some of his Brethren also to take their turns, which they did with great success.

Now was he again much threatened, and Warrants were often out for him, which He is threatened but delivered.he rejoyced at, that when (by reason of his distempers) he could do little for God, God would so honour him, that he should suffer for him in a Prison; and would often say with much chearfulness, that they could not do him a greater kindness: But God not seeing him fit for the inconveniences of a Prison, was pleased to spare him.

The Five Mile Act now taking place, he removed to a place called Willington, five p. 150Miles from Taunton, to a Dyers house in a very obscure place, where he preached on the Lords Days as he was able: But the vigilent eyes of his Enemies soon found him out there, and resolved to remove him, and a Warrant was put in the Constables hands to apprehend him: And the Dyer was threatned to be sent to the Goal for entertaining him: Hereupon he returned to Mr. John Mallack's house, a Merchant, who had oft solicited him to take his house for his Home, and he now accepted of his courteous offer: But many of his Friends in Taunton were so earnest, that to satisfie them, he went to their houses and stayed with some a Fortnight, with others three Weeks or a Month, yet still taking Mr. Mallack's for his Home: And he went from no house without serious Counsels, Comforts or Reproofs, as their Condition required.

He went from no house that was willing to part from him; nor could he satisfie the requests of one half that invited him to their houses: So that he would often His usefulness in all places.bless God, and say with holy Mr. Dod, That he had a hundred houses for one that he had parted with: And that tho he had no Goods, yet he wanted nothing, his Father careing for him in every thing; so that he lived a far more pleasant Life, than his Enemies that had turned him out of all.

He was exceedingly taken with Gods Goodness in Mr. Mallacks bountiful entertainment of him, whose House, Gardens and Walks were very delightful to him, being so pleasant and curious, and all Accomodations within suitable thereunto; Gods faithfulness.which made him often to say, that he did [as Dives] fare deliciously every day; but hoped to improve it better than he did: And that God had inclined his heart to care for many Poor, and for several of his Brethren in the Ministry, and that now God did reward him, not suffering him to be at any expence upon himself or Wise.

He was a great Observer of each Days Providences, and would every Night before he went to sleep, reckon them up to his Wife, to raise his own and her heart to Providence observed.praise the Lord, and to trust to him, of whose care and goodness he had such manifold experiences.

The time for his going to the Waters being come, he desired to keep a Day of Thanksgiving for all Gods Mercies to him and his Friends; and accordingly July the 10th. 1665. divers of his Brethren in the Ministry, and of his Friends in Taunton met at Mr. Mallack's House, about a Mile from the Town; where, after they had been a while together, came two Justices, with others attending them with Swords, and brake open the Doors by force (tho if they had pleased, they might have unhatched them) and with much dirision and threatning Language, took their Names, and committed them to some Constables, charging them to bring His apprehension.them the next Day to the Castle-Tavern in Taunton, before the Justices of Peace there. The next Day the Prisoners were broughr forth, and answered to their Names as they were called; and after two Days tedious attendance, were all convicted for keeping a Conventicle, and sentenced to pay three Pounds a piece, or to be committed to Prison for threescore Days: But few of them either payed their Fines or suffered their Friends to pay it for them. Whereupon Mr. Allein, and seven Ministers more, and forty private Persons were committed to Ilchester Goal. When Mr. Allein Imprisonment.came to the Prison, his Deportment, and Conversation was every way as exemplary as it had been in his former confinement. And notwithstanding his great bodily weakness, yet he constantly took his turn with the other Ministers in preaching, which they performed, mostly, twice a Day, besides other Religious Exercises, Painfulness.wherein also he did bear his part.

Tho he had many of his Flock imprisoned with him, whereby he had the fairer Care of his people.opportunity of instructing and watching over them; yet was he not forgetful of the rest that were at liberty, but wrote many Letters to them, full of serious and profitable matter, from which they might reap no small benefit, whilst they wanted his bodily presence: He was also very solicitous for those that were with him, that they might be the better for their Bonds, walking worthy the many and great Mercies they had enjoyed during their Imprisonment; that so, when they returned to their Houses, they might speak and live forth the Praises of God, carrying themselves in every respect as became the Gospel for which they had suffered; which he made to appear by that wholesome Counsel which he gave them the Morning wherein they were delivered, which consisted of two Heads.

The first was of Exhortation.His advice at their deliverance.

First, to rejoyce with trembling in their Prison Comforts, and to see that they kept them in a thankful Remembrance all their Lives.

2. To feed and feast their Faith upon Prison Experiences.

3. To let Divine Mercy be as Oyl to the flame of their Love. O love the Lord all ye his Saints.

4. To keep their Manna in a Golden Pot, and not to forget him, who hath said so often Remember me.

5. To let the Bonds of their Afflictions strengthen the Bonds of their Affections, to love one another the better.

6. To let present indulgence fit them for future hardships.

7. To cast up their accounts at their return home, and to see whether they have gone as much forward in their Souls, as they have gone backward in their outward Estates.

8. To see that the Snuffers of the Prison make their Light to burn the brighter; and that their course and discourse be the more savoury, serious and spiritual for this present Tryal.

9. To see that they walk accurately as those that have the Eyes of God, Angels, and Men upon them, to see what Gainers they have been by this Affliction.

The second was of Dehortation.

First, Revile not your Persecutors, but bless and pray for them, as Instruments of conveying great Mercies unto you.

2. Let not the humble acknowledgment of Gods Mercy, degenerate into proud, vain-glorious boasting, or carnal.

3. Be not prodigal of your Liberty upon a conceit that the Prison will be easie, nor yet fearful of adventuring in a way of Duty.

4. Do not load others with censures, whose Judgment and Practice differs from yours, but humbly bless God that hath so happily directed you.

Having spoke thus to his fellow Prisoners, he spake thus also to Friends and Brethren His Speech to Friends.with them.

First, Let our experience be your encouragement. O love the Lord, ye our Friends; Love the Lord; Fear him for ever; Believe in him; Trust him for ever for our sakes. We have tasted of the kindness of God. You know how good God hath been to us both in Spirituals and Temporals. Encourage your hearts in the Lord your God: Serve him the more freely and gladly for our sakes. You see we have tryed, we have tasted how good the Lord is. Do you trust him the more, because we have tryed him so much, and found he is a Friend so faithful, so gracious, that we are utterly unable to speake his Praise. Go on and fear not in the way of your Duty: Verily there is a Reward for the Righteous. God hath given us a great Reward already; but this is but the least; we look for a Kingdom.

2. My desire to our Friends is, that they will all help us with their Praises: Our Tongues are too little to speak forth the Goodness and the Grace of God: Do you help us in our Praises: Love the Lord the better; praise him the more, and what is wanting in us, let it be made good by you. O that the Praises of God may found abroad in the Country by our means, and for our sakes.

His Imprisonment prevented his going to the Waters, which was the cause of the His distempers encrease.increase of his Distempers all the Winter following, and more in the Spring; yet not so much as to take him wholly off his work, but that he preached, kept many Days, and administred the Sacrament to his People.

Going to the Waters in July, 1667. they had a contrary effect upon him to what they had at first; for after three days taking them, he fell into a Fever, which Gods Mercy.seized on his Spirits, and his strength decayed so exceedingly, that he seemed to be near Death; but the Lord was pleased to spare him, and so far to restore him, that at six weeks end he returned to his People; yet then finding a great decay in his strength and weakness in all his Limbs, he was willing to go to Dorchester to advise with Dr. Lose, an able Physitian, from whom he had received many Medicines, but had never any converse with him, nor had seen him.

The Doctor soon perceived his weakness, and therefore advised him to stay there He goes to Dorchester.for a Fortnight or three Weeks, that he might direct him the better, and alter his Remedies as he should see occasion, which he readily assented to. He had not been there above five days, but the use of all his Limbs was suddenly taken from him; first his Arms, then his Legs, that he could neither stand, nor move a Finger, nor His great weakness.turn him in his Bed. He was given over by Physitians and Friends, that saw him p. 152for some weeks lying in cold sweets night and day; and often, for some hours His great weakness.half his body was cold, so that in their apprehensions he was dying, and received nothing but strong Cordials and Broths.

Thus he lay from September 28th. to November 16th. before any amendment appeared, all which time he was very chearful, praising and admiring God for his mercies: But his Spirits were so low that he spake seldom, and then softly. He was free from pain, and when his Friends admired his patience, he would say, that God had not yet tryed him any thing, but in laying him aside from his work, and keeping him out of Heaven. Being asked how it was with his Soul in all his His inward peace.bodily weakness? His answer was, that he had not those Ravishing Joys which he expected, and which some did pertake of: But he had a sweet serenity of heart and Conscience, and a confidence in God grounded upon the promises of the Gospel, and did believe that it would be well with him to all Eternity.

The Ministers and Christians of that place were very compassionate unto him, Great kindness to him.Visiting, and Praying with and for him often. And Dr. Lose visited him twice a day for about a Quarter of a year together (except when he was out a Town) and yet would never take any Fees of him. The Gentry also in and about the Town, sent in whatsoever they imagined might be pleasing to him: So that he neither wanted food nor Physick, and he much delighted himself in the consideration of the Lords kindness to him, in the Love which he received from them, and would often say: I was a stranger, and Mercy took me in: In Prison, and it came to me: Sick and weak, and it visited me: There were also fourteen young Women that took their turns to watch with him.

In this condition he kept his Bed till December 18th. And then, beyond hope, His amendment.in the depth of Winter he began to revive and to get out of Bed: Yet could he neither go nor stand, nor move a finger, having sense in his limbs without motion. But it pleased God that by degrees his strength increased, so that he could with help, walk a turn in his Chamber, and when (after a time) he could do it without help, he was wonderfully taken with the Lords mercy to him: And by February, with a little help, he could walk in the streets, being asked how he could be so well contented to lie so long under so great weakness? He answered, What? Is God my Father, Jesus Christ my Saviour, and the Spirit my sweet Friend, my Comforter, and Sanctifier, and Heaven mine Inheritance, and shall I not be content without His patience.Limbs and Health? Through Grace I am fully satisfied with my Fathers good Pleasure.

To another that asked him the same Question, he answered: I have chosen God, and he is become mine, and I know with whom I have trusted my self, which is enough. He is an unreasonable wretch that cannot be content with a God tho he hath nothing else: My interest in God is all my Joy.

Some of his Friends of Taunton coming to Dorchester to see him, he was much revived, and causing his Curtains to be withdrawn, he desired them to stand round about the Bed, His Speech to his Friends.and caused his Wife to hold forth his hand to them, that they might shake him by it, and as he was able, he spake thus to them. O how it rejoyces my heart to see your faces, and to hear your voices, tho I cannot as heretofore speak to you. Methinks I am now like to Old Jacob, with all his Sons about him. You now see my weak estate, and thus have I been for many weeks, since I parted from Taunton; but God hath been with me, and I hope with you. Your Prayers for me have been answered many wayes. The Lord return them into your own bosoms. My friends, Life is mine, Death is mine, in that Covenant I was Preaching of to you is all my Salvation, and all my desire: Altho my Body doth not prosper, I hope my Soul doth. I have lived a sweet Life by the Promises, and I hope (through Grace) I can die by a Promise. The Promises of God are everlasting, and will stand by us. Nothing but God in them will stand us instead in a day of Affliction.

My dear friends, I feel the power of those Doctrines which I Preached unto you, upon my heart. Now the Doctrines of Faith, of Repentance, of Self-denial, of the Covenant of Grace, of Contentment, &c. O that you would live them over now that I cannot Preach to you. Its a shame for a believer to be cast down under afflictions, who hath so many glorious Priviledges, Justification, Adoption, Sanctification, and Eternal Glory. We shall as the Angels of God within a little while; nay, to say the truth, Believers are, as it were, little Angels already, that live in p. 153the power of Faith. O my Friends! Live like Believers: Trample this dirty World under your feet. Be not taken with its Comfort, nor disquieted with its Crosses: You will be gone out of it shortly.

When they came to take their leaves of him, he Prayed with them as He blesses them.his weak state would suffer him: And in the words of Moses, and the Apostle, he blessed them in the same words as he used after the Sacrament. The Lord bless you, and keep you: The Lord cause his face to shine upon you, and give you peace. And the God of Peace that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ, through the blood of the Everlasting Covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his Will, working in you that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be Glory for ever and ever, Amen. Adding, Farewel, Farewel my dear Friends: Remember me to all Taunton. I beseech you and them, if I never see your faces more, go home, and live over what I have Preached unto you; and the Lord provide for you when I am gone. O Let not all my Labors and Sufferings: Let not my wasted strength; my useless limbs rise up in Judgment against you at the great day of the Lord.

At another time some coming to visit him, he spake thus to them. O my Friends; Counsels them.Let your Conversation be as becometh the Gospel of Christ, whether I am present or absent. Live what I have spoken to you in the Name of the Lord: Now that I cannot Preach unto you, let my wasted strength, and useless limbs be a S…rmon to you. Behold me! I cannot move a finger: All this is come upon me for your sakes and the Gospels. It is for Christ and you that I have thus spent out my self, I am affraid lest some of you after all that I have spoken to you, should be lost in the world. There are many Professors who can pray well, and talk well, whom yet we shall find at the left hand of Christ, another day. You have your Trades, your Estates, your Relations: Be not taken with these, but with God, O live on him? For the Lords sake go home and take heed of the World, of Worldly cares, of Worldly Comforts, Worldly Friends, &c. And then he added.

The Lord having given Authority to his Ministers to bless his People, I accordingly Blesses them.bless you: And so he did in the words formerly recited. And he conversed with all that came to visit him as he was able, looking alwayes chearfully upon them, and never in the least complaining of his Afflictions, except to his Taunton Friends to excite them to their duty.

In February he was very desirous to return to his People, which his Doctor assented His return to Taunton.to; fearing that Dorchester Air in March would be too sharp for him: And Judged that it might conduce to his cure to have his mind satisfied. At his return he was much pleased with the sight of that place and of his people, who came flocking about him, and he so increased in strength that within a week after he was able to feed himself. But to pr…ent any prejudice that might come by the frequent visits of Friends, he removed to Mr. Mallacks House where he found most kind entertainment.

There he increased in strength till the beginning of April, and then he declined again, and was soon after taken with Convulsion fits, whereof he had divers the first He hath Convulsion fits.day and night: But by Gods blessing upon means, he was freed from them for about three weeks, and then, being alone in his Chamber, he was taken with a Fit, wherein he fell to the ground and hurt his Face; and his Nose bled much, which blood was clotted and corrupt, which made his Physicians to conclude that that fall saved his Life: For probably had not that blood come from his head, he had died in A special Providence.that Fit. Going to Bed he slept so well that night, that he awaked in the Morning much refreshed, and full of the praises of God for his mercies to him.

After this he lived alwayes in the expectation of death, saying often, It is but a He prepares for death.puff and I am gone, and therefore every night after Prayer he used to bid all the Family Farewel, saying he might be dead before Morning. Whilst he was undressing he would be discoursing of Spiritual things, and when he lay down to his rest, he used to say to his Wife, we shall shortly be in an other Bed. Farewel my dear heart, the Lord bless thee: His first Speeches in the Morning usually were, now we have one day more, here is one more for God, now let us live well this day, Work hard for our …ouls, lay up much Treasure in Heaven this day, for we have but a few to live.

Hence forward the strength of his Limbs were so repaired, that they feared not p. 154his relapsing again. But about May 6th. he began to find weakness in his stomack, His relapse.which quickly so grew upon him that he lost the use of his Limbs again, and May 12th. having lain some dayes and nights in cold sweats (as formerly) he was again taken with Convulsions, and having continued in a trance about four hours, his friends weeping about him, he at last spake thus unto them, weep not for me: My work is done: And immediatly fell into a violent Convulsion fit, that held him two hours, and presently after fell into another, wherein he ratled and was cold, insomuch as they thought every breath would be his last. His Physicians said, that his pulse was gone, and that he would be dead in a few Minutes: But God shewed his power in reviving him beyond all expectation; yet was he not able to speak to them till the next day, nor did he perfectly recover till four days after. Thus he continued every weak until July, mostly confined to his Bed, yet chearful, and free to discourse with any that Visited him, as long as he was able.

A Proposal was made by his Wife to the Doctors, whether the Bath was not fit for him? Some were for it, others against it. But he himself was very eager for it. And a Horse-Litter being provided for him, tho he had not for many dayes been out of He goes to the Bath.his Bed, yet did the Lord so strengthen him that in two days he went almost forty Miles to the Bath. The Doctors there wondered to see such an object, and marvelled that he came such a Journy alive, and were very doubtful to put him in: But, against their Judgments he resolved to adventure himself.

At his first appearing in the Bath he was such a Skelleton that the Ladies were affrighted to see him, as if Death had come among them, and they could not endure to look upon him. When he went first in he could stay but a very little while, yet found much refreshing by it, and had no Symptoms of his Fits as was much feared. By Gods blessing upon this means, and drinking Goats Milk, in three weeks space, he could He somewhat Recovers.walk about his Chamber and feed himself: His appetite came again, and his strength increased: And thus he continued till his death drew near.

During this time he grew exceedingly in Grace to the Joy and Edification of His growth in grace.those about him. He had much Communion with God, and often such Ravishments of Spirit from the Consolation of the Holy Ghost, that he was not able to express them, nor his week Body to bear them. He was more chearful than formerly, and exceeding affectionate to his Wife, and to all his Friends, especially to such as were most Heavenly: And the Lord was pleased so to order it by his Providence that many such came to make use of the Bath, as Mr. Fairclough, Mr. How of Torríngton, Mr. Joseph Bernard, and divers of his Taunton Friends, and of Bristow Ministers, which was a great Comfort to him in that strange and wicked place.

Here he had many Visiters both friends and strangers, who came to see and discourse with him, having heard what a Monument of mercy he was; and to all of He is oft visited.them he would so enlarge himself, upon all the passages of Gods dealing with him, as gave much content to all that heard him: And it did much affect many, who were Strangers to God and Religion as well as unto him. He found much favour even amongst the worst, both Gentry and others: Such as would make a Scoff at Religion in others, would hearken unto him; yea, tho he faithfully reproved His prudence and faithfulness.them for their Oaths, excessive drinking, wanton carriages which he observed in the Bath, and there was none of them but did most thankfully accept it from him, and shewed him more respect after than they had done before. In which he observed much of Gods goodness to him, and would often say, O how good is it to be faithful unto God: One of the vilest of these Persons said of him, that he never spake with such a Man in his Life.

His reproofs were managed with so much respect to their persons, and places, that they said, they could not but take them well, tho they were sharp and plain: His reproofs.And his manner was before he intended to reprove them, often in the Bath to discourse with them of such things as might be pleasing to them, which did so engage their affections that they delighted to converse with him, who was furnished with matter of discourse for any Company, designing to make use of it for Spiritual ends, by which means he caught many:

Here tho he had many Diversions, by his constant bathing every day, and frequent Visits, besides his weakness, yet he kept his constant Seasons, four times a day, for his holy Retirements. First in the Morning from five a Clock till seven, p. 155at which time he was carried to the Bath, and again before Dinner, but then he spent less time, and about half an hour before two, just before he went abroad, He appointed his Chair-man, that carried him to the Bath, to fetch him about three a Clock, and to carry him to the Schools and Alms-houses, and to the Godly Poor, especially the Widdows, to whom he gave Mony: And would pray and confer He goes abou… doing good.with them about their spiritual State as their necessities required, engaging the Teachers and Governors to teach them the Assemblies Catechism, whereof he bought and gave them many dozens for the use of their Scholars, and many other small Books which he judged useful for them; and about a Week or Fortnight after he would again visit them to see what progress they had made.

He also engaged several Persons to send their Children once a Week to him to be Catechised by him; and he had about Sixty or Seventy Children that came to him every Lords-day, who profited much by his Instructions, till some took such offence at it, that he was forced to desist, and the Schoolmaster was threatned to be brought into the Bishops Court at Wells for it, which frighted him and some others. He also sent for all the Godly Poor he could hear of in the City, whom he entertained at his Chamber, and gave them Mony according to his Ability, as a Thank offering His Charity.unto God for his Mercy to him, and procured two of the aforenamed Ministers to assist him in keeping a Day of Thanksgiving for the same. Tho his Sickness had been long and his Expences great; yet, he thought he could never do enough for him from whom he had received all. He always gave Mony or Apples to all the Children that came to be Catechised by him, besides what he gave to their Teachers and the Poor; and having made Provision for his Wife, he resolved to lay up the rest in Heaven; often saying, that having no Children of his own, Gods Children should have his Estate.

His next work was to send Letters to all his Relations and intimate Friends, whom His Letters to his Friends.he exhorted to observe his Counsel, for it was like to be his last to them. He had a great desire to go to Mr. Joseph Bernard's, which was about five Miles from the Bath, to promote the Exercise of Catechising in Sommerset and Wiltshire. Mr. Bernard having had a great Deliverance as well as himself, he proposed to him, that by way of Thank offering unto God, they should mutually engage to joyn in the printing His Thank-Offering.of six thousand of the Assemblies Catechisms, and to raise some Mony among other Friends to send to every Minister in those Counties that would engage in the Work, and also to give to the Children for their encouragment in learning of it: which Work was effected by Mr. Bernard, after Mr. Alleins Decease.

Mr. Allein finding himself again to decline, judged that it proceeded from want of Bathing, and therefore returned to the Bath again, where (by the advise of the Doctor) he made use of the Hot-bath, the Cross-bath being now too cold for him, and for four days seemed to be refreshed by it; but upon the 3d. of November there appeared a great change in his Countenance, and he found a great alteration in himself; and some Friends coming to visit him, he desired them to pray for him, for his time was very short.

After they had dined he was in more than an ordinary manner transported with Affections to his Wife, whom he thanked for all her care and pains about him, puting His love to his Wife.up most affectionate Petitions to God for her; and the like also he did after Supper.

After this, he called for a Practise of Piety, and turning from his Wife, he read to himself the Meditation about Death in the end of the Book; which his Wife taking notice of, He prepares for Death.asked him if he judged his End to be near? He answered that he knew not, but within a few days she should see. Then he desired her to read two Chapters to him, as she usually did every Night, and so he hasted to Bed (being not able to pray with them) undressing himself, more than he had done of many Months before. In Bed he complained of a stoppage in his Head, and had something given him to prevent his Fits, yet within a quarter of an hour he had a strong Convulsion, and God was pleased to deny success, notwithstanding all means used to remove it; these Fits continued for two Days and Nights without an hours intermission.

His Fits were very terrible to behold; but Prayer being made, that if the Lord Prayer powerful.saw fit, he would so far mitigate his hand upon him, that he might yet utter his mind unto them before his departure; the Lord was pleased to return a gracious Answer; For whereas before he had not spoken from Tuesday Night before, upon p. 156Friday Morning about three a Clock, he called for his Wife, speaking very understandingly (by times) all that Day; and that Night after he spake with an audible Voice for sixteen hours, such like words as you had formerly an account of: This continued, with some little intermission, till Saturday in the Evening, at which time he departed.His Death.

About three a Clock that Afternoon, he had (as those about him conceived) some conflicts with Satan; for he uttered these words, Away thou foul Fiend; thou His temptation and victory.Enemy of all Mankind; thou subtile Sophister: Art thou come now to molest me? Now that I am just going? Now I am so weak, and when Death is upon me? Trouble me not, for I am none of thine. I am the Lords; Christ is mine, and I am his: His by Covenant: I have sworn my self to be the Lords, and his I will be: Therefore be gone. Which words he repeated oft over, Be gone, Be gone. In his converse with his Wife he spent most His holy speeches.of that time in heavenly and profitable discourses; speaking much of the place to which he was going, and his desire to be gone. I was thinking (said he, as he was dressing) of my Marriage Day; it will be shortly: O what a joyful Day will that be!

Having some Broth brought him, he said blessed be the Lord for these refreshments in the way home: But, O how sweet will Heaven be! And at another time he said, I hope to be shortly where I shall neither need Meat, nor Drink, nor Cloaths.

When he looked upon his weak and consumed hands, he said, these shall be changed; This vile Body shall be made like unto Christs Glorious Body.

And again, O what a Glorious Day will the Day of the Resurection be! Methinks I see it by Faith. How will the Saints then lift up their Heads and rejoyce? And how sadly will the wicked World look then?

O come, let us make haste! Our Lord will come shortly, let us prepare for him.

If we long to be in Heaven, let us hasten with our Work; for when that is done, away we shall be fetcht.

O this vain, foolish, dirty World! I wonder how reasonable Creatures can so dote upon it! What is in it worth the looking after? I care not to be in it longer than my Master hath doing or suffering work for me; were that done, then farewell to the Earth.

He was oft in commending the Love of Christ, and from that, exciting himself and others to Obedience to Christ; often speaking of his Sufferings and of his Glory: He admired the Love of Christ.As also of his Love-Letters; for so he stiled the History of his Life, Death, Resurrection, Ascention, and of his second coming; the thoughts of which, he was oft much ravisht withal.

He would be often reckoning up the choice Tokens which Christ had sent him; As First, Pardon of Sin. Secondly, A Patent for Heaven. Thirdly, The Gift of the Spirit. Fourthly, The Robe of Christs Righteousness. Fifthly, The Spoils of Enemies. Sixthly, The Charter of all Liberties and Priviledges. Lastly, The Guard of his Angels; and this last he did frequently solace himself in, in the times of Imprisonment, and else where; and would say to his Wife, tho we have not such Attendants and Servants as the Great Ones of the World have, yet we have Gods blessed Angels still to wait upon us, to minister to us, and to watch over us while we are sleeping; to go along with us in our Journies, and still to preserve us from the Rage of Men and Devils.

He was very much affected with the three last Chapters of St. Johns Gospel, especially with Christs parting Words and Prayer for his Disciples. In brief, his Heart, his Lips, his Life was filled with Grace, which did radiently shine forth both in Health and Sickness, in Prosperity and Adversity, in Prison and at Liberty, in his own House and in Gods House; so that few that conversed with him, but they would acknowledge that they were Gainers by him.

At Mr. Allein's first coming to Taunton, he so journed with Mr. Newton, and after his Ordination, administred all Ordinances joyntly with him, tho he were but an His first coming to Taunton.Assistant, who highly esteemed and dearly loved him. At this time he was in League with her whom afterwards he married, and Mr. Newton observing his restless Spirit, which put him upon many tedious Journies every Fortnight of twenty five Miles, to give her a Visit; thereupon he perswaded them to consummate their Marriage, which they did accordingly, October 4. 1655. After which they lived with Mr. p. 157His Marriage.Newton almost two years, and were very kindly entertained by him.

At the end of this time, conceiving that they might be more useful by turning House-keepers, they took an House, and Mrs. Allein having been bred to her Needle, Had many Tablers.set up a Boarding-School, and had many Tablers and Scholars: Their Family was seldom less than twenty, sometimes thirty; and her School usually contained fifty or sixty, many coming out of the Town and Neighbourhood besides their Tablers. And the Lord was pleased exceedingly to bless their Labours and Endeavours, so that within a few years space many of them were converted, who before were Strangers to God. All the Scholars called Mr. Allein Father; and indeed he had far Did much good among them.more care of them than most of their Natural Parents had, and was very tenderly affectionated to them, especially to their Souls.

His Practice in his Family was twice a Day to read the Scriptures, to sing a Psalm, and to Pray; except when he Catechised, which was constantly once, if not twice a Week. Of every Chapter that was read, he expected an account, and also of every Sermon. He dealt with both his Servants and Scholars frequently, together and apart about the spiritual Estate of their Souls, pressing them to perform all Duties, both of the first and second Table: He also gave them sundry Books sutable to their Capacities and Conditions, of which they gave a weekly account how they had profited by the same.

His Lords-Days work was very great; for tho he preached but once in Taunton, yet he constantly was employed the other part of the Day, either in assisting some His frequent preaching.of his Brethren that stood in need of his help, or else went to such Places where a Minister was wanting. In his publick Repetitions and in his Catechising, his own Family, both Scholars and Servants answered him when their turn came as well as others,

He was an holy and tenderly affectionated Husband towards his Yoke-fellow, to whom he expressed his Love by his great care for her both in Sickness and in Health; His Love to his Wife.in his provision for her after his Decease; in his delight in her Company, saying often that it was irksome to him to make a Meal without her: He used to impart unto her all his Affairs that were fit for her to be acquainted with, and to consult with her about them: He spared not to reprove her faithfully for whatsoever he judged amiss; and if himself had at any time given her offence, he would desire her to pass it by, professing that he was restless in his Spirit till he had done it.

He was frequent in keeping Days of Humiliation, especially before the Sacrament. Sanctified the Sabbaths.He was a strict Observer of the Sabbaths, the Duties whereof he did perform with such joy and alacrity of Spirit, both in publick and private, as tended much to the Edification of those that joyned with him; the like practice he pressed much upon Christians, that they should spend the Sabbaths more in Praises and Thanksgivings, as being days of holy rejoycing in Christ our Redeemer.

During the time of his Health, he rose constantly about four a Clock in the Morning, and sooner on the Sabbaths if he did awake. He would be much troubled His industry.if he heard any Smiths, Shoomakers, &c. at work in their Trades before he was in his Duties with God, saying, O how this noise shames me! Doth not my Master deserve more than theirs? From four a Clock till eight he spent in Prayer, Meditation and singing of Psalms, which he much delighted in, and did daily practice when alone as well as in Company; then having refreshed himself about the space of half an hour, he …ent to Family Duties, and after that, to his Study till about eleven or twelve a Clock.

Having refreshed himself a while after Dinner, he retired into his Study to secret Prayer, and then went abroad amongst those Families which he was to visit, to His visits from house to house.whom he always gave notice the day before: He went forth about two a Clock, and seldom returned before seven: He would often say, Give me that Christian that accounts his Time more precious than Gold. He Catechised once a Week in publick, and repeated the Sermon which he preached on the Lords-Day, on Tuesdays in the Evening.

In his visiting from house to house he found much difficulty, it having not been practised formerly; yet after in publick he had preached up the Ministers Duty to their People, and theirs to receive them when they came to promote the good of their Souls, he presently set upon the work, wherein his manner was thus;

p. 158He took a Catalogue of the Names of all the Families in each street, and a day or two before he intended to visit them, he used to send them word that so they might be at home, and that he might know whether they were willing to receive him or no? Such as sent slight excuses, or did obstinately refuse to admit him, he would notwithstanding go to them; And if they shut their doors against him His prudence.(as some would) he would speak some few affectionate words unto them, or denounce Gods Threatnings against the obstinate that despised Christs Ministers, and so depart: And shortly after he would write to them with words so full of Love, and expressions of his great desires of doing good to their Souls, as did often mollifie and overcome their hearts, so that many of them did afterwards entertain him readily. And in the practice of this Duty he baulked not; but visited the poor as well as the rich, tho some of their houses were very noisome and offensive to him: Impartiality.And tho his Labors were so abundant, yet for nine years together, he was not under the least distemper for the space of one Quarter of an hour.

His Wise, suspecting that his extraordinary labors would bring him into diseases, labored to perswade him somewhat to abate of them, he answered, what have I strength for, but to spend it for God? Thou art like unto Peter, still crying, O spare thy self, but I must not hearken unto thee no more than my Master did unto him.

He was very temperate in his diet, and tho he had a sharp Appetite, yet he would moderate it, knowing that it would much conduce to his health. His converse at His Temperance.Meals was very profitable and pleasant: Whether he was at home or abroad he would take opportunities of speaking something to the Edification of others.

He was much in commending and admiring the Mercies of God in every Meal: Was still so pleased in the provision that was made for him, that he would often say, he fared deliciously every day, and lived far better than the Great Ones of the world, whose Tables were far better furnished. For he enjoyed God in all, and saw his Love and bounty in what he received from him every Meal. Whence (speaking to his Wife) he would say, O wife, I live a Voluptuous Life: But (blessed be God) it is upon Spiritual dainties: Such as the world neither knows nor tastes of.

He was much in minding the poor that were in want of all things, often wondering His charity.that God should make such a difference between him and them, both for this world, and for that to come: And his Charity was ever beyond his Estate. There were but few (if any) Poor Families, especially of the Godly in Taunton, but he knew their necessities, and did either by himself or by his Friends relieve them; So that his house was seldome free from such as came to make their complaints to him. He used to buy Pease and Flitches of Bacon, and distribute them twice a year in the cold and hard seasons. He kept several Children at School upon his own cost: Bought many Books and Catechisms, and had many thousand of Prayers Printed which he gave away among the poor. And when his Brethren of the Ministry were cast His bounty.out of their places, he himself gave 4 l. per annum towards making a publick stock for them, by which example he excited many others to do the like, yea, upon other occasions (which frequently fell out) he was so open-handed that he gave offence to his friends: So that many in the Town grudged to give what they had agreed with him for, because he gave so much. Besides all this, the necessities of his Father, and of many other, his Relations, where still craving his help, and he Ministred unto them without grudging. And when he had received a more than ordinary mercy, he would set apart some portion of his Estate, which he dedicated to the Lord as a Thank-offering, to be imployed in pious and Charitable uses.

When his Wife would have moderated him in these expences, his answer was, that he was laying up for God, and God would repay him. And that by liberal things he should stand, when others that censured him for it should fall. That if he sowed sparingly he should reap sparingly: If bountifully he should reap bountifully. And notwithstanding God blesses him the more.all that he did in his Life time in this kind, yet when he came to die he had something left to dispose of to his Relations, and to his Brethren of the Ministry, besides the comfortable provision that he had made for his Wife.

In brief, his whole Life was a continued Sermon, holding forth the Doctrines which he Preached, of Humility, Self-denial, Patience, Meekness, Contentation, Faith, Love to God, his Church, and People, the blessed fruit of all which he now reaps in Heaven, where he is singing praises unto God and the Lamb, which was his great delight whilst he lived in this world.

p. 159Some of his Sayings.

When the week began, he would say: Another week is now before us: Let us spend this week for God.

In the Morning he would say: Come now let this day he spent for God. Now let us His holy Speeches.live this one day well. Could we resolve to be more than ordinary Circumspect, but for one day at a time, and so on, we might live at extraordinary rates.

In the day he would ask People: How did you set out to day? Did you set out for God to day? What were your Morning thoughts?

As he walked about the House, he would make some Spiritual use of what ever did occur: And still his Lips did drop as the Hony Comb to all that were about him, to assist him in his weakness.

To one that had done well: There are two things (said he) that we must specially look too after well-doing. 1. That we grow not proud of it, and so lose all. 2. That we grow not secure, and so give the Tempter new advantages.

Speaking of the vanity of the World: He said, It is as good to be without the World, and to bear that state as becometh a Christian, as to enjoy the World, tho it were never so well imployed. If a Man hath Riches and layeth them out for God and for his Servants; yet it is as happy an Estate to receive Almes of another, so we bear our poverty aright, and are chearful and thankful in our low Estate: Tho yet its true, that Riches may be used to the good of others. And its more Honourable to give than to receive.

Another time he said: How necessary a duty is it for a Child of God placidly to suit with all Gods dispensations. A Christian must not only quietly submit to God in all his dealings, but must ever be best pleased with what God doth, as knowing that he is infinitely wise and good. O how unbecoming a Christian is it to do otherwise.

Another time he said: O what an alteration will shortly be made upon us? Now we are the Sons of God, but yet it doth not appear (to sight) what we shall be. Did we imagine only that we shall shine as the Sun; it were too low a conceptation of our future blessedness.

As he was dressing in a Morning, he said: O what a shout there will be when Christ shall come in his Glory? I hope all here present shall contribute to it.

Again: I bless the Lord, I delight in nothing in this world, farther than I see God in it.

In his weakness he said: There are three things that must be unlearned, as being mistakes among Men. 1. Many think their happiness lies in having the World, when its much more in contemning the World. 2. Men think that the greatest contentment lies in having their Wills, when indeed it lies in Crossing, Mortifying, and Subduing their Wills to the Will of God. 3. Men think it their business and benefit to seek themselves, whereas indeed it is the denying of themselves.

His advise to his Friend was. 1. Value precious time while time doth last, and not when 'tis irrevocably lost. 2. Know the worth of things to come, before they come, or are present: And the worth of things present before they are past. 3. Value no mercy as it serves to content the Flesh, but as its serviceable for God, and to things Eternal.

To one that Watched with him: He said, I hope to pass an Eternity with thee in the praises of our God, in the mean time let us live a life of praise whilst we are here: For it is sweet to us and delightful to God, its harmony in his ears, our failings being pardoned, and our persons and praises accepted through Christ.

Not long before his death he said to the same person: O how much hath God done for you more than for all the World of unconverted persons, in that he hath wrought his Image in your heart, and will bring you at the last to his Caelestial Glory. See now that you acknowledge the Grace of God, and give him the praises of it. For my part, I bless the Lord, I am full of his Mercy. Goodness and Mercy have followed me all my dayes: I am full and running over. And now I charge you to walk chearfully, and to follow me with your praises whilst I am alive.

When he heard that there were Warrants out for his Apprehension upon the five Miles Act, being then very weak, lifting up his eyes to Heaven, with a chearful Countenance, he thanked God that would so far honour him, saying, Blessed be the Lord, I shall now give up two lives for Christ; The one in doing for him; The other in suffering for bim. I am worn out in doing for him: And now I can do no more, shall I not suffer for his sake? I bless the Lord, I look not for any happiness in this World, and I am content to stay for it till I come into the other world. I forgive mine Enemies with p. 160all my heart: I can put up all the injuries they have done me; But I am sure God will no put them up so except they repent.

Speaking of Exhoration and Reproof he said: Its the sasest course (where it may be done) to take the present opportunity, and not to suffer our backward hearts to cheat us of the present under pretence of staying for a fitter time.

By way of advice for profitable discourse, he said: Its good for such Christians as need it, to study before hand what to speak, that they may alwayes have something in readiness to bring forth for the benefit of others, which will prevent impertinence.