Before they left Stuttgardt they were refreshed by a social evening’s recreation, one of those occasions of the familiar intercourse of friendship, under the canopy of divine love, in which John Yeardley especially delighted.

17_th_.—­Our two young friends, Reuchlin, came to conduct us to their garden among the vine-hills in the environs of the town.  We there met their precious mother, and were joined by a good many interior ones, who had been invited to meet us.  We had a precious little meeting in the arbor, after which we gave them some account of the religious movement in Belgium, &c., which pleased them much.  We afterwards partook of fruit, biscuits, and wine.  I shall reckon this garden visit among the happy moments of my life, because the presence of the Most High was with us.

On the 18th they went to Kornthal to visit the interesting society in that place.  Hoffmann’s widow, who seems to have returned from Basle after the death of her husband, was there, but so aged and infirm as to be confined to the house.  The inmates of the establishment were therefore convened in some apartments adjoining her chamber, so that she could partake in the spiritual repast.  Their kind friend Reuchlin had prepared the way for them; and when the assembly took their seats, a solemn silence ensued.  John Yeardley and “Brother” Koelne addressed the meeting, and the former supplicated at the conclusion.  On their way back to Stuttgardt, Madame Reuchlin interrogated them on the doctrine of election, and was rejoiced to hear from them their full belief in the universality of the grace of God; and as they communicated to one another their convictions respecting this great truth, their spirits were knit together in the love of the gospel.

From another pious person in this city, John Yeardley received a word of timely encouragement.  He was anxious about their going into Bohemia, not having, as he thought, a sufficiently clear guidance to determine his course.

9 mo. 19.—­A very acceptable visit from a worthy brother, Weiz.  He introduced himself and commenced speaking on the guidance and consolations of the Holy Spirit, and spoke of his own experience as though he had known the thoughts of my heart.  I have, said he, sometimes earnestly prayed to the Lord for direction what way to take, and have received no intimation; all has been dark within; I knew not whether to go right or left, and I have been compelled to go forward.  I have then said, Lord, thou knowest my heart, be pleased to prosper my way; I leave the consequence to thee.

The conclusion to which they came in regard to Bohemia was, not to attempt the journey at that time, but to return to England for the winter, and leave the remoter districts of the circuit which they had in prospect till another year.  They therefore returned by Heilbronn to Kreuznach, where they again found many opportunities of instructing and strengthening such as had made some progress in the Christian course.