ment somewhere in the western part of this state, but from all I could learn, it appeared that the churches there were already better supplied than those in this region. For some years past ministers have been moving westward; and the consequence is, that the churches in the eastern part of this state, and in New-England, are more destitute than those farther west. "As for myself, I shall probably remain in Salisbury until next fall. I am not teaching, as you supposed. Ministerial duties demand my whole attention; and, indeed, my health would not admit of any additional labor. I have an affection of the lungs, which first manifested itself in the summer of 1825, and threatens to retard, and perhaps arrest, my labors in the ministry. I am at present very agreeably situated. My library is small, and, owing to the weakness of my eyes, I am not able to read as much as I could wish; but my books are well selected, and, when I am able to read, I endeavor to improve my time to the best advantage. "As to the future, I know not what awaits me. • Hitherto the Lord hath helped me,' and if I continue to trust Him he will not forsake me. I wish to cast my care upon the Lord, who is infinite in wisdom, power, and goodness. "In respect to religion among us, we have some reason to be encouraged. Our meetings are well attended, and the people manifest an unusual interest in the ministrations of the Divine Word. I am glad to hear of another accession to your church. But, my dear brother, we must not forget, that with the increase of members there is a corresponding increase of responsibility." The Christian resignation so conspicuous in this letter was eminently characteristic of the author. He was accustomed to hold himself in suspense respecting events of doubtful issue, thus becoming superior to disappointment. The object of his anxiety was to know and do his duty; and being conscious that he had done what he could, he met the allotments of Providence, whether prosperous or adverse, with meekness and resignation. The following letter was written to Rev. Rollin H. Neale, soon after the death of his parents: "My dear Brother, "Your letter was duly received, and it afforded me much pleasure to hear from you. The Lord, it seems, has caused you to drink the cup of affliction. Your parents are no more. But we have reason to believe that while their bodies rest in hope, their sainted spirits are in heaven, rejoicing in the full fruition of that bliss which they but faintly anticipated in this vale of tears. Doubtless you have many lonely hours from this bereavement. But, my dear brother, put your trust in Him who is the Father of the fatherless. His grace is sufficient for thee.' Let that Gospel which you preach to others impart consolation to your own soul. These light afflictions may work out a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Although no affliction for the present seemeth joyous, but grievous, yet it may be designed for your good, and afterward yield the peaceable fruits of righteousness. Being taught by experience the uncertainty of the dearest earthly possessions, you will learn to prize more highly the inheritance of the saints in light. And by your own sufferings you will learn that important lesson of Christian sympathy-' to weep with those that weep.' "I rejoice that God, who called you into His kingdom, has counted you faithful, putting you into the ministry.' There is no calling more honorable, and certainly there is none in which you can be more useful. Christ and Him crucified' is the theme. 6 Hosannah to the Son of David,' is the acclamation of the Church on earth, and saints above respond, 'Worthy is the Lamb.' "It is now about one year and a half since I commenced my labors with the church in Salisbury. My health is at present quite delicate; but the cause of Christ is precious as ever, and I am willing to wear out this feeble frame in His service, if I may but be the means of saving some souls. My mind is intent on preaching the Gospel; and I am sure that nothing can afford me greater satisfaction, on my death-bed, than to know that I have been the instrument of good to the people of God, and of salvation to the impenitent. But sometimes I have such an overwhelming sense of the greatness of the work, and of my own weakness, that I should wholly despair, had not He who bade His servants go forth, kindly added, ‘Lo, I am with you alway."" This letter is characterized not more by the sentiments of a well-informed intellect, than by the sympathies of a warm heart. The author was himself no stranger to affliction; and the spirit which he breathes in this epistle was apparent in all his conduct, imparting to his character the truest life and loveliness of religion. His own sufferings were borne with the meekness of a Christian, and he was ever ready, nay, anxious, to relieve the wants of others. No sacrifice within his power was too costly for him to make in the alleviation of human Moved by the spirit of his mission, he followed the example of Christ, who, when He was on the earth, "went about doing good." woe. 14 CHAPTER THIRD. DIARY RESIGNATION AND RETIREMENT-GIFTS IN THE MINISTRY. THE diary of Mr. Judd, which was written for himself alone, cannot be published entire. But some extracts may be inserted here, which will keep up the thread of our narrative, and make us familiar with the author in his daily walk, laying open the secret springs of his action and enjoyment, during the most important period of his ministry. "1828, July 12. Met in covenant meeting with the brethren in Salisbury. Was somewhat encouraged. Proposed to have them resume their travel as a church. A special meeting was appointed to consider the subject. 16. Met in special church meeting. The meeting was well attended, and the brethren agreed unanimously to move forward in the regular observance of the Lord's Supper. "28. Have just returned from the funeral of Mrs. C. She died yesterday morning, after a long and painful illness. It affords us comfort to think that we are not to live always in this vale of tears. Indeed, we should with difficulty endure the trials of our present state, during the little time allotted us here, did not the light of eternity fling its radiance on our path. The child of God, favored with foretastes of heaven, is comparatively happy, though he linger still on the shores of time. But superlatively blessed are they who enjoy the fruition of heaven. Such, we trust, is the state of our departed sister. With us she is no more. She has finished her course on earth, and gone to her home in heaven. May the event of her death be sanctified to her brethren that survive, especially her unworthy pastor. For to each one of us also the trying hour must come. May we all be ready, that when the time of our departure is come we may hail the messenger of death as the harbinger of heaven. "Aug. 23. United with the Baptist church of Salisbury. This is the third church with which I have been connected. It is a source of satisfaction to me, that I am permitted to have a name and place among the people of God. 'Que thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after-that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple.' "Nov. 5. My thoughts of late have been very much taken up with the contemplation of divine things. This world appears to me of little worth, and a good hope through grace of infinite value. Jesus has taken away the sting of death, and conquered the grave. Have not such full evidence of my adoption as I could wish; but I cherish the hope that my life is hid with Christ in God,' and that when He shall appear, I shall be like Him.' "31. Feel oppressed at my lungs. When disease threatens, I am more sensible of the uncertainty of life. I often speak to others respecting the power of Christian faith to overcome the fear of death. The Lord grant me a large measure of that faith, and grace equal to my day. year. "1829, Jan. 1. This day commences a new the last year many have finished their course on earth. Within |