In November 1688, he was again in London, and embraced that opportunity to take leave of his majesty, with whose misfortunes he was greatly affected. At his last interview with the king, (while they were standing at a window in the palace conversing together,) James looked out and said, “The wind is fair to bring over the Prince of Orange;” the Apologist remarked, “It was hard that no expedient could be fallen upon to satisfy the people.” His majesty replied, “He would do any thing becoming a gentleman, but never would part with his liberty of conscience.” This sentiment, being so consonant to the Apologist’s mind, and corresponding so closely with his own principles and practice, drew forth his approbation; and with mutual regret they parted, to meet no more. In the month of December he arrived at Ury, and lived retired for nearly two years, enjoying domestic happiness in the bosom of his family. But having gone to Aberdeen about the end of September 1690, to attend a meeting of Quakers, he caught cold while returning home, and, being seized with a fever, it put a period to his life on the 3d of October, after a short but severe illness. With a mind naturally strong and vigorous, he possessed all the advantages of a regular and classical education; and his writings evidently shew the profundity of his research, as well as the extent and variety of his learning. His mild temper, benevolent heart, and sprightly conversation, gave him influence with men in elevated stations, which he employed not for the benefit of his friends alone. From motives of pure benevolence, he often successfully exerted himself in behalf of others, as well as for the members of the society to which he belonged. If, on one occasion, he inconsiderately betrayed a fervour of zeal in his profession of a preacher, by exposing himself in sackcloth on the streets of Aberdeen in the year 1672, we must concede to him, at least, the merit of sincerity, and, in justice, make every allowance for the ardour of a youthful mind. Although his feelings were warm, yet his passions were subdued by strict discipline; and the practical observance of the rules of moral duty, strengthened and invigorated every virtuous sentiment. Cheerful, yet serene, he withstood the shocks of adversity with fortitude and firmness. Ever active and indefatigable, he composed one of his best works within the walls of a prison; and, in all situations, he was constantly occupied with what he conceived to be for the good of mankind. Considering the shortness of his life, and the time he employed in travelling, it is astonishing that he could write so much and so well. But his works have outlived him; and, in three volumes, the scattered opinions of the society to which he belonged, are collected, arranged, and exhibited to the whole world in elegant uniformity; and throughout Europe and America, “_The Apology for True Christian Divinity_,” is to be found in the libraries of the wise and the learned[34].