His term of study closed at Stoke Newington, Watts, still little more than a youth, returned for some time to his father’s house at Southampton. Worshipping with the congregation there, under the ministry of the Rev. Nathaniel Robinson, he felt that the psalmody was far beneath the beauty and dignity of a Christian service. He was requested to produce something better, and the following Sabbath the service was concluded with what is now the first hymn of the first book; and a stirring hymn it is—as an ascription of praise or worship, and as a confession of faith it is remarkably comprehensive and complete. Behold the glories of the Lamb Amidst His Father’s throne; Prepare new honours for His name, And songs before unknown. Let elders worship at His feet, The church adore around, With vials full of odours sweet, And harps of sweeter sound. Those are the prayers of the saints, And these the hymns they raise; Jesus is kind to our complaints, He loves to hear our praise. Eternal Father, who shall look Into Thy secret will? Who but the Son shall take the book, And open every seal? He shall fulfil Thy great decrees, The Son deserves it well; Lo! in His hand the sovereign keys Of heaven, and death, and hell. Now to the Lamb that once was slain, Be endless blessings paid; Salvation, glory, joy, remain For ever on Thy head. Thou hast redeemed our souls with blood, Hast set the prisoners free; Hast made us kings and priests to God, And we shall reign with Thee. The worlds of nature and of grace Are put beneath Thy power; Then shorten these delaying days, And bring the promised hour. This is the tradition of the origin of the first hymn. It was received with great alacrity and joy. It was indeed “a new song.” The young poet was entreated to produce another, and another. The series extended from Sabbath to Sabbath, until almost a volume was formed, although their publication was long delayed. This was the interesting result of his return to Southampton. [Illustration] [Illustration] CHAPTER III. In the Hartopp Family.