The result of this interview was a promise on Mr. Roby’s part to write to the Directors of the London Missionary Society concerning him, and to communicate their wishes to him as soon as they were received.  In the meantime Robert returned to his ordinary occupation.

After waiting a few weeks a summons came from Mr. Roby for Moffat to visit Manchester again; and, with the view of his studying under the care and instruction of that reverend gentleman, it was arranged that he should accept a situation in a nursery garden belonging to Mr. Smith, at Dukinfield, that place being near at hand.  Moffat continued here about a year, visiting Mr. Roby once or twice each week.  Mr. and Mrs. Smith were a pious and worthy couple, and their house was a house of call for ministers.  They were always ready for every good work whether at home or abroad.

“In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths,” is one of the maxims of Holy Writ that should be engraven upon the heart and mind of every youth and maiden.  Robert Moffat’s desire was for the glory of God and the extension of the Redeemer’s kingdom, and God was not only opening the way for His servant, but was preparing a faithful and devoted helpmate for him in his various spheres of labour through life.

Robert’s employer had an only daughter, named Mary, beautiful of countenance, but more beautiful in heart.  She had been educated at the Moravian school at Fairfield, and was distinguished for fervent piety and deep sympathy with the missionary cause.  The two young folks were thrown together, mutual esteem deepened into love, and the maiden, possessed with so large a missionary spirit, was prepared to share the lot of the young herald of the Cross.  For a time, however, it was ordained that Robert should pursue his course alone.

After being at Dukinfield nearly a year, the Directors resolved to accept the services of Robert Moffat.  He left Mr. Smith’s employment and removed to Manchester, so that he might be close to Mr. Roby, to receive such superintendence as was possible in his studies.  This period extended to but a few months, so that of college training and opportunities Robert had little experience.

The time rapidly drew near for his departure abroad.  A hurried visit was paid to the parents whom he never expected to see again, and then he awaited his call to the mission field.

On the 13th of September, 1816, after bidding farewell to Mr. Roby, whose “kindness, like that of a father,” wrote Moffat, “will not be easily obliterated from my mind,” he started for London.  While in the Metropolis he visited the Museum at the Rooms of the London Missionary Society, and the following extract from a letter to his parents, in connection with this visit, shows the spirit which actuated the youthful missionary at this time:—­