the plainest understanding to misconceive his meaning. 242The general effect of this remarkable pulpit exercise was, to constrain, rather than compel, men to embrace religion; and this was effected by the presentation of motive, so judiciously selected, and so elegantly urged, that no human being, unless his heart were adamant, could hear without emotion and obedience. The sermon was closed by an energetic appeal to the congregation on the necessity of personal piety, and of taking an immediate step in order to secure it; and from the profound silence that prevailed, the appeal was, I doubt not, effective. Who, indeed, could sit for an hour unmoved, while an approved minister of righteousness, not only in formal phraseology does his duty, by the cold and formal announcement of truth, but goes almost beyond himself, and strives, by every method which zeal and ingenuity can devise, to render that truth attractive, and save the souls of men? Let me subjoin another observation. Deep and vivid as was the impression produced by the preacher alluded to, I am not sure that he was to be numbered among those who are termed extremely popular. But an unction from the Lord, as if at a renewal of the pentecostal season, came down upon the word. The communings at Emmaus were revived, when Jesus Himself drew nigh, and broke the bread of life; so that many were fain to say, ‘Did not our hearts burn within us, while He talked by the way, and opened unto us the Scriptures?’ To my own mind, the entire service was very beneficial; that is, I acquired self-knowledge. The remembrance of my sins was grievous, and the burden, but for the mercy of God, intolerable. All my preconceived notions of bettering myself were exploded, nor could I offer any other prayer than that of the publican, ‘God be merciful to me a sinner.’ I dare not mention the name of the minister to whom these remarks refer; for he yet lives, and will, I trust, be preserved many years, a blessing to the Church. For many subsequent months the ministry of the Rev. Philip 243C. Turner was rendered exceedingly serviceable to my mind. People may think as they please, but religion is no fable; neither is the work of grace upon the soul of man a mere hypothesis, to be examined with suspicion, and embraced or rejected at humour. If there be a genuine and awful reality on this side eternity, this is one; nor would I suppress my belief in the fact, for the applause of millions. Truth is great, and, though it be surveyed with scorn, must finally prevail. 244 CHAPTER XI. JOINS THE METHODIST SOCIETY—NATURE AND USE OF CLASS-MEETINGS—THE WITNESS OF THE SPIRIT—FAITH AND ITS FRUITS—RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE—RESOLVES TO END HIS DAYS IN THE SERVICE OF GOD.