On their way through Belgium, the same feeling was strongly impressed upon his mind.

1850. 4 mo. 7.—­In the train, soon after leaving Brussels, my spirit was melted under a feeling of the Lord’s goodness.  The object of our journey came weightily before me, and I considered we had left our home and every object most dear to our natural affections, with the sole view to serve our Lord and Master, and in the desire to use our feeble powers to draw souls to Him, that they might partake of spiritual communion with the Beloved of souls, through his grace.  A degree of precious resignation followed; and, whatever may be the result as it regards ourselves, I believe it is the Lord’s will for us thus to go forth, in his name; and should I or the precious partner of my bosom not be permitted again to see our native land, we shall be happy and at rest, through the mercy of that Saviour who gave his precious life for us.

On arriving at Berlin their first duty was to apply to the Russian ambassador for his signature to their passport, with permission to enter the Russian territory at Odessa.  Their application met with an immediate and positive refusal, and the extinction of his hopes in this respect was to John Yeardley a grievous disappointment.

The next evening, after they had borne their burden all the day, dejected in spirit, and uncertain which way to turn, their hearts were lightened by a visit from August Beyerhaus, who at once attached himself to them and offered them help.  He could indeed do nothing to facilitate their entrance into Russia, but he was the means of diverting their minds from the consideration of what had now become hopeless, and of opening to them, in Berlin, a door of usefulness.  Through his introduction they became acquainted with several devoted Christians, some of them of wide reputation in the Church.  These interviews, which were occasions of heartfelt spiritual communion, are thus noticed in the Diary:—­

4 mo. 22.—­Samuel Elsner is an aged warm-hearted Christian, full of faith and good works:  he gave us important information, and will send me some names of pious persons in Silesia.

Pastor Gossner we found green in old age; seventy-five years of a variegated life have taught him many useful lessons.  His refuge now is strong faith in the Saviour.  He was at work in his arm-chair, and was much pleased to see us.

23_rd_.—­Pastor Knack, successor to Gossner, is a man of a lively spirit, to whom we at once felt united.  He very liberally offered us the liberty of speaking to his flock (the Bohemian congregation in Berlin); and also invited us to visit the little company in the village where we propose going this evening.