_1805, April 1._--Went to Lord Hawkesbury's office, but, being
too early, I went into St. James's Park, and sat down on a bench
to read my Bible. After a little time a person came and sat down
on the same bench; on entering into conversation with him I
found he had known better days. He was about seventy years of
age, and of a very passionate and disappointed spirit. He spoke
sensibly on several subjects, and was acquainted with the
Gospel; but was offended at my reminding him of several things
concerning it. On my offering him some money, which I saw he
needed, he confessed his poverty; he was thankful for my little
donation, and I repeated my advice of seeking divine
consolation.
_April 2._--Breakfasted with ----. Our conversation was on the
most delightful subject to me, the spread of the Gospel in
future ages. I went away animated and happy. Went with Mr. Grant
towards the India House. He said that he was that day about to
take the necessary steps for bringing forward the business of
the chaplains, and that by to-morrow night I should know whether
I could go or not. In prayer at night my soul panted after God,
and longed to be entirely conformed to His image.
_April 3._--After dinner, passed some time in prayer, and
rejoiced to think that God would finally glorify Himself,
whatever hindrance may arise for a time. Going to Mr. Grant's, I
found that the chaplaincies had been agreed to, after two hours'
debate, and some obloquy thrown upon Mr. Grant by the chairman,
for his connection with Mr. Wilberforce and _those people_. Mr.
G. said that though my nomination had not taken place, the case
was now beyond danger, and that I should appear before the court
in a couple of days in my canonicals. I felt very indignant at
this, not so much, I think, from personal pride, as on account
of the degradation of my office. Mr. G. pleasantly said, I must
attend to my appearance, as I should be much remarked, on
account of the person who had nominated me. I feel this will be
a trial to me, which I would never submit to for gain; but I
rejoice that it will be for my dear and blessed Lord.
_April 4._--Went down to Cambridge.
_April 6._--Passed most of the morning in the Fellows' garden.
It was the last time I visited this favourite retreat, where I
have often enjoyed the presence of God.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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