We have now seen John Yeardley for many years in the devoted exercise of his calling of a gospel minister.  It is instructive to follow him, as we are able to do soon after his removal to Scarborough, into his chamber, and see how, when alone with the gracious Giver, he was wont to regard the precious gift; how he lamented that he had not used the talent more diligently; and how his mind was enlarged to see the grace and power which the Lord is ready to bestow on those who seek and trust him with their whole heart.

6 mo. 8.—­The important duty of a gospel minister has this day been brought closely under my consideration.  It is most assuredly the imperious duty of those who are called to feed the flock, to labor diligently for the good of others.  With respect to myself, I feel greatly ashamed; and it has occurred to me that should I he cast on a bed of sickness, or otherwise be deprived of an opportunity of exercising this gift, it would be an awful consideration, and cause of deep regret, that I had not better improved the time.  The hardness of heart in others, as well as in one’s self, is difficult to penetrate; nothing but the power of divine grace can reach it, and this requires not only waiting for, but also laboring to overcome the wandering and unsettled thoughts to which the poor mind is subject.  Merciful Father, give me more confidence in the gift which, thou hast bestowed on me, and favor me with a greater portion of strength to minister thy word faithfully.  “Who then is that faithful and wise steward whom his Lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season?  Blessed is that servant whom his Lord when he cometh shall find so doing.”—­(Luke xii. 42, 43.)

Tenderly mindful of the religious wants of those whom they had lately left, so early as the Seventh Month John and Martha Yeardley revisited the several congregations in Pontefract Monthly Meeting.  They were both humbled and comforted in the course of this visit.

We were, says J.Y., united in sympathy to many dear friends within the circle from whence we have removed, and I was strengthened to labor according to the ability received from day to day.

Since this little journey, he continues, we have been pretty much at home attending the meetings in course in the neighborhood.  We are comfortably settled in our new abode, which feels to us really a home as to the outward in every respect; and in a religious sense we entirely believe it is our right allotment for the present.

In this new halting-place of his earthly pilgrimage, John Yeardley experienced an increase of freedom, of spirit, and of faith and joy in his Saviour.