“May 18th. Service on deck. Found much sweetness in private devotion, with a disposition to pray for my dear relatives and friends by name. My mind tolerably fixed on divine things, with boldness to speak to any that came in my way, on the subject of religion. I have of late observed with pleasure a great change in P.’s views and sentiments respecting scriptural truths; and a practice more correspondent thereto than formerly. This morning, he spoke with much feeling, on several experimental truths of Christianity; and I humbly hope, is no stranger to the power of them. O that I may be enabled to walk in wisdom towards him, and that he may be an honoured instrument in turning many to righteousness! “Sunday, June 1st. I have neglected to make memoranda during the past week, and fear it is a symptom of spiritual decay: yet, I find, in general, much fixedness of mind in private prayer; and sometimes much tenderness of spirit. The Bible is my delight and daily counsellor; and I think I watch every opportunity of calling the attention of those around me to the things of eternity. Yet, I would confess to my shame, that these attempts are feeble, generally very unskilfully conducted, and little calculated to produce a good effect, and chiefly confined to more intimate associates. I plainly perceive that without a great exercise of divine power, I am totally unfit for the work of introducing the Gospel amongst the heathen; and much fear lest the objects of time and sense should divert me from that pursuit. Yet, Lord, thou knowest that to be instrumental in turning many unto righteousness is my highest ambition. This is the determination of my judgment; though, alas! my affections draw me powerfully to court the favour of man, and to covet ease. I perceive myself poor and blind, and miserable, and wretched, and lost, and undone; but O the joyful sound of wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption in Christ Jesus for ruined sinners! Blessed Lord, grant me a spirit of faith, that I may apprehend this dear Redeemer; and by virtue of union with Him may obtain acquittal from all condemnation, and daily become more like Him, in righteousness and true holiness!” To the Rev. J. Buckworth he wrote as follows:--