“Here I had a few days ago an example which pleased me very much though attended with trouble. A young man of twenty-four years, of the Shraf caste, resolved to visit us at an evening prayer--heard the word of God explained, joined in prayer, meditated what to do--came to a settled resolution to join the despised people of God. Not poverty, not quarrel, but a desire of being happy inspired him. He was engaged to marry a young woman, the daughter of a rich man at Seringapatam. The day of their wedding was appointed. He told his mother that he would fain marry the girl but not with idolatrous rites. The mother said, ‘I wish I had killed you as soon as you were born, etc.’ All this happened before his being baptized. The relations got him cunningly and kept him a close prisoner; but he found opportunity of making his escape and came hither to Tanjore. His mother and others made a great noise and came and begged I would not admit him. I replied in the presence of the Brahmins and a number of people that I never forced anybody and that I could not reject him if he desired me to instruct him. Further, I said, ‘Here he is; ask him whether he likes to go with you or stay with us.’ The young man said, ‘Mother and friends, if you can show me a better way to heaven I will follow you--but I will not live any longer in idolatry.’ I remained in my house; the young man went to the chattiram; his relations followed him and fairly carried him off to Vellam; but he again contrived to make his escape. After that I instructed him daily and baptized him. May Jesus triumph over all His enemies shortly.” CHAPTER IX. AS PEACEMAKER WITH HYDER ALI.