A CHRISTIAN WOMAN'S Experiences of the glorious working of God's free grace.  
Published for the Edification of others, by KATHERINE SUTTON.  
Luk. 24: 24. And they found it even so, as the Women had said.  
AT ROTTERDAM, Printed by HENRY GODDAEUS, Printer in the Newstreet, Anno 1663.   

COURTEOUS READER.  
WHEN our Lord and Saviour JESUS CHRIST had fed many with a few Loves, he commanded his Disciples to gather up the Fragments, that nothing he lost, john. 6. 12. And when God was pleased to pour out of his Spirit upon some of his faithful Servants in our Generation, he had also some of his Handmaids, who gathered up the Crumbs of that spiritual Bread, which the Lord blessed and distributed among his Disciples: Of which Number this holy Marron was one. Now there are three Arguments where by it may appear, that God would not have these Fragments (which she hath gathered into her Basket) to be lost, viz. First, Because, God made them (by his Bl●ssing) food to her soul in the gathering, and receiving them into her own heart, and also to the souls of several young Virgins in her family, unto whom the Lord made some of these Crumbs the bead of eternal Life. Secondly, Because when she had lost the manuscript (where in these and many other of her Experiences were written) in a sea storm wherein she suff●●ed Shipwreck, yet God, who preserved her life, did also preserve these ●xperiences in her heart, where it seemeth they were written, not with ink but by his holy Spirit. Thirdly, Because she being presled in Spirit to Communicate them more publicly, the Spirit of the Lord did bring them ag●in to her remembrance, and she hath been made willing to publish them as her Testimony and witness of the free grace, and fresh anointings of the Lords Spirit, whom he hath promised to pour forth upon his servants, and Handmaids in the last days, joel 2: 28, 29, 31, 32. Now for as much as this little Book is presented to thee, CHRISTIAN READER, as a Basket full of Fragments, be not offended with the broakenness of any matter, which thou mayest meet with in the Reading thereof: considering, that God, who hath made them a blessing to others, may bless them unto thee. Thou mayest take notice of three Things in this little Book, which I judge worthy of every Christians observation, to wit, first, Her extraordinary Teachings of God by his holy Spirit and Word, when she could not enjoy the ordinary means of his own appointments. This godly Woman (after God hath begun the good work of grace in her soul) would not lose any opportunity she could get either in public or private for her precious so●l, but would often break thorrow some difficulties and, endure some hard, hips to enjoy such opportunities; and this she did at that time, when many professors slighted and neglected (Ogr●evous Sin! yea contemned the Ministry of the word. Now observe, That a● she followed the Lord, and waited upon him in the use of the means of Grace, when she could enjoy it, so the Lord was pleased (of the exceeding Riches of his free Grace) not only to so her soul good by his presence and power therein: But also (when she could n●t ●njoy the (〈◊〉 meme● of grace) the Lord waited to be gracious unto her soul, and followed her with the 〈◊〉 teachings of his holy Spirit, and word, as she hath witnessed in many particulars in this her Book. And if thy experience, COURTEOUS READER, cannot seal unto the Testimony, that she gives of those Spiritual Teachings: Yet do not st●mble at them, do not judge her, for she hath received an Unction from the holy One, and is taught of God. In the Reading of her Book, thou wilt meet with some sudden and unexpected Transition from one thing to another, (and thou mayest think it to be some what abruptly) yet Censure not too rashly, but rather consider, that even this also may, yea doth hold some proportion unto the course of Heaven and Heavenly communications. The Husbandman will not wonder to see showers and shinings, bright and dark Clouds succeed each other, knowing that the Rain which comes from Heaven hath its seasons and its measure too. Will the Mariner marvel to see the seas swell and rage in a great storm, or admire the stillness and smoothness of the deep waters in a great calm. Or will any who liv supon the sea coast think the frequent Ebbing & flowing of the tide a strange thing. Neither will any experienced Christian marvel at the sudden Ebbing and flowing of joys, and sorrows in the hearts of Saints. The operations and Administrations of the Spirit are various, 1. Cor. 12: 4, 5, 6, 7. Some times the Spirit is poured out upon the souls of Believers (as floods upon the dry ground) And those spiritual showers and shinings do make a spring of Grace in the wilderness of their hearts. Where of the Lord hath spoken by his Prophets. Isa. 51: 3. and 44: 3, 4. and 32: 15, 16, 17. jer. 31: v. 12. But at other time the glory of the Saints comforts, joys, and light is so clouded, and eclipsed, that they are under great desertions, Isa. 54: vers. 7, 8, 11. Yea and may for some time walk in dakness and have no light, Isa. 50: 10. Secondly, Another thing I judge worthy the Readers observation in this Book, is this Christian woman's Experience of the presence and power of God, accompanying her conscientious endeavours to do good unto the souls of others both in her own family especially, and also in some other families, where she so journed some time. I mention not this for her praise, who desires that God alone may have all the Glory of whatsoever he hath done for her or by her; (she needs no Epist●es of Commendation from men) But seeing her Experiences are made so public, my heart's desire is, that Parents and Governors of families would follow her Example therein: Endeavouring (as she did) the Conversion and sanctification of them, whom God had committed to their charge, by Instructions, council, and reproose, which she administered, with so much love, wisdom, zeal, and tenter heartedness, that they proved by God's blessing an effectual means of the conversion of many, some of whom are yet living witnesses of the truth hereof, and also of many other her Experiences related in this her Book. She was not only a Governess, but (as it were) a Prophetess in her family, for she prayed constantly with her children and Maidens, she also read the holy Scriptures daily unto them, and so spoke from them, that many of them, who heard her (in her family duties) believed and turned to the Lord. She opened her mouth with wisdom, and in her tongue was the Law of kindness, a Solomon spoke of the virtuous woman, Pro. 31: 26, 27, 28, 29. She did so Chatechise the young children, and instruct the elder maidens, that they all learned to know, and many of them to do their duty to God and man. Thirdly, there is yet one thing more, which I would have thee, Courteous Reader, to ponder in thy heart, to wit, the gift of singing spiritual Songs and Hymns, which she presents thee with some instances of in her Book, here and there occasionally touching, which Administration I am willing for thy edification to say: 1. That singing of Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs (b●ing an Ordinance of God's worship) ought to be performed by a gift, and the assistance of the Spirit, as well as prayer 1. Cor. 14: 12, 15. What is it then? I will pray with the Spirit, etc. I wilising with the Spirit, etc. Now as to take a book and r●ad a prayer out of it, or to say a prayer without the Book, is not to pray in the Spirit, so to read a Psalm in a Book, and sing it, or to sing the same Psalm without the Book is not to sing in the Spirit: If the singing of Psalms be a part of God's worship (as doubtless it is) than it ought to be performed by assistance of the spirit, for the true worshippers ought to worship God in spirit and truth, John. 4: 23, 24. 2. That Christians ought to sing Spiritual Songs and Hymns, as well as Psalms, unto the Lord; And that with grace in their hearts, Col. 3: 16. for the melody (which the Lord loveth) i● in the heart, rather than in the voice, Eph. 5: 19 3. They who perform this part of God's worship, whether they speak unto themselves in private, or unto others more publicly, aught to have the word of Christ, to dwell richly in them, yea and to be filled with the Spirit, as the Apostle testifieth, Ephes. 5: verse 17, 18, 19, 20▪ and Coloss. 3: verse 16. I have known some other Godly and gracious Christians (besides this grave and holy Matron) who have this gift of Singing: and I myself have some experience of this kind of Anointing of the Spirit of praise, which will (I hope) ere long be poured forth upon the sons and daughters of Zion. And then they will praise Jehovah, singing to the Lord a new Song, and his praise in the Congregation of Saints, as is prophesied, Psal. 149: 1, 2, 5. and Isai. 51: 11. and 52: 1, 8. etc. The holy Spirit can dictate the Matter, yea and words of praise and singing, as well as the matter and words of prayer: And why may not the Lord assist a poor gracious humble soul to sing in the Spirit, as well as to pray in the Spirit: seeing there nothing too hard for God, to do? It was by many (and is still by some) denied, that there is any such thing as a Spiritual gift of prayer, save only that which is acquired. And yet the gracious experience of many Godly persons doth testify that there is such a gift of the Spirit, called a spirit of supplication, which is poured forth upon the Lord's people. And although many nay most Godly Christians do not believe there is any such Spiritual gift of ●●nging as I have here intimated, yet some few poor gracious humble souls have good Experience, that there is sometimes a measure of the holy Spirit poured upon them, where by they are so filled with the Spirit, that they break forth into singing: Pray therefore that thou mayest sing, and praise the Lord, when the Redeemed of the Lord shall return and come with singing to Zion, Isa. 51: 11. And the Children of Zion be joyful in their King. Psal. 149: 1. Unto whom be glory and dominion for ever, AMEN. So prayeth he, who waiteth for his Kingdom and Coming.  
HANSERD KNOLLYS.   

ERRATA.  
PAg. 1. Line 8, 9 read forbearance; line 16. r. sinned; l. 19 r. petty. Pag. 3. line. 1. r. I was stirred; line. 3. 4. r. to me towards Heaven; Pag. 4. l. 7. r. stumblest; Pag. 6. l. 1. r. heed; Pag. 7. l. 6. r. Christening; Pag. 8. l. 25. 26. r. unbelief: Pag. 9 l. 12. read renewings.  
These and some other literal mistakes the Reader is desired to mend in the perusal of this Book.   

Christian Woman's experiences of the glorious working of God's free Grace.  
I Had once hard thoughts of the people of God, yet being on a time persuaded to go to hear them, I went though not out of love to them, but to watch what I could observe; and being then over persuaded against them, and the Ministers Text (that then preached) was Rom. 2: 4, 5, 6. or Dispisest thou the riches of his goodness, and forbeacance, and long suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee unto repentance; but after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up to thyself wrath against the day of wrath, and revelation of the righteous Judgement of God, who will render to every man according to his deeds.  
Verily at this opportunity the dread of God did much smite upon my heart, that I had so long sinnend against his patience and goodnesz. He had this passage, that the sword of the Lord hung as in a twine thread, to cut of all pity swearers; and I having been one that durst not swear great oaths, (but small ones I was addicted to) I thought it met with my particular condition: Then had I little acquaintance with any that feared the Lord; unless it were one family, and they were much afraid of me for a season, because I had been so vain.  
Then was I cast upon the Lord alone, who did much support me by his grace, blessed be his name; yet the very first night after he began to work upon my heart, I fell under this temptation, that I should not eat any more, but rather die, and then I should cease from sinning against the Lord's goodness; I than cast away my prayer-book, for it did not reach my necessities, and I cried unto the Lord alone to teach me to pray; Then did I endeavour to keep close to the best teaching ministry I could find; I was very ignorant, yet did search the Scriptures diligently: but found them very dark to me, I daily saw a more clear discovery of my sinful nature, and then began to be sorely perplexed with feaus that I could not be a child of God, because I knew not how to get victory over my sin, and though I used all means I could, yet my corruptions would sometimes break forth, which made me often times ready to despair, and to cast of all.  
But one day amongst the rest the Lord made me resolve, though he killed me, yet I would trust in him; he made me also desire of him that if he would not save me, yet that he would not let me go back again into sin (for the sense of God's goodness was much upon my heart.)  
Then in several Sermons God was pleased to speak peace to my poor soul, yet after through the violence of temptations, I often questioned my condition; sometimes I was tempted to murder myself, sometimes to starve myself; yet the Lord upheld me, for I could not make my case known to any but God for the space of two years, all which season I was wonderfully kept by the power of God alone. In this time was I called by my friends into a dark corner of the land full of ignorance, yet I was sorely troubled, especially when I was overtaken with any sin, still I fell down befor●●he Lord bewailing my sins; then did the Lord give me much comfort from this place of Scripture. Jer. 31: 20. Is Ephraim my dear son is he a pleasant child, for since I spoke against him, I do earnestly remember him still: therefore my bowels are troubled for him; I will surely have mercy upon him. saith the Lord.  
Now in the place where I was were many Papists, and they much endeavoured to have me of their judgement: But God kept me in a thirsting frame of spirit after the preaching of the word, and often cast in my mind, that I should, Matt. 6: 33. First seek the Kingdom of God, and the righteousness thereof, and all other things should be added.  
We had in that place a bad Minister, but to God I made my supplication, and used what means I could to obtain a better, and God was pleased to answer my desires, and sent a better to that very place, who remained there the time that I stayed,. under whose honest teachings I often met with sweet refreshing.  
Then was stirred up by my friends to change my condition, to be married to an husband; upon which I did earnestly beg of God that I might have one that did fear the Lord, that he might be a furtherance to heaven, and indeed so he was. For I married with a man that was much in practical diuties, yet some difference there was in our judgements, which often caused no small trouble in my spirit: but it had this effect, it caused me to cry to God, and to search the Scriptures, so much the more, using all means for a ●ight understanding in the things and ways of God, and it became helpful to me. And in this time of my earnest seeking of God alone, he was pleased to discover to me by dreams and visions of the night, the uggliness of sin in a far greater manner than ever I saw it before: and in dreams brought many Scriptures to mind that did answer some questions, and satisfy some doubts, that were in my heart: and so did cause darkness to become light before me at that time: and this did the Lord do in the absence of other means, soon after I gained information where the word was powerfully preached: but it being something far from me, I had some difficulty to get to it; yet it being (through grace) more to me then my ordinary food: I kept close to opportunities of the word there preached; which in an especial manner God was pleased to make very useful unto me. And I enjoying often many sweet tastes of the presence of God in his ordinances, was carried out through all weathers to wait upon him; and this I can truly say from real experience that the worst whether I went through the more of God, I met within his ordinances, I remember one very wet day, I had much comfort from these words; (let this encourage others,) Joh. 1: 2, 3. Now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: And afterwards while my meditations were something upon Hebrews 6: 5, 6. I was much stirred up to mind, how far an Hypocrite might go in Religion: And I began to consider, whether or no I had gone any further than such a one might go, for I saw plainly that a person might go very far, and yet be in a sad state, though they may be ●nlightened and taste of the heavenly gist, and be partakers of the holy Spirit, yea and taste of the good word, and also hear the best Preachers gladly, as Herod did john the Baptist, and as Agrippa did Paul, and yet be but almost a Christian.  
Then I being at a Sermon, the words of the Text were: Marc. 6: verse 20. And he did many things: That Minister then showed, that an Hypocrite or a reprobate might do many things: but yet a true child of God can do more; he named two things in which a child of God goeth beyond an Hypocrite.  
First, that he doth as much desire to be holy as happy.  
2. That he doth as earnestly fet himself against all sin as some.  
Then was I exceedingly taken up in my thoughts about this thing; but being carried out to seek the Lord earnestly, he was pleased to give in this answer; Thou tumblest so much at the stone of assurance that thou forgetest to build, than did God let me see that the foundation and top-stone is Jesus Christ, and that I must cease from my own works, and take Christ upon his own terms, and then entered I into some rest.  
Oh, what a knotty piece was I to work upon! for until he put forth his mighty power I could not believe; and I found nothing stronger than free grace to strick at the root of my sin.  
Also on another snowy day I going many miles to hear, I was refreshed much from these words, 2 Cor. 12: 9 My grace is sufficient for thee.  
And on another day from these words: Luke 10: 20. But rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. And another time abundance of comfort from that Scripture: 1 Cor. 2: 9 Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard neither, hath it entered into the heart of man, to conceive the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. It was a very sore day when I went to this opportunity and a very bitter Journey I had, but God made it exceeding sweet unto me.  
Also I had a very great fit of a fever, by reason of the trouble of conscience I was under; and in the time of that great fever, the Lord was pleased to set that Scripture upon my heart: Rev. 22: 17. The Spirit and the bride said comm, and let him that heareth say, come; and let him that is a thirst come; and whosoever will, let him come, and take of the waters of Life freely: Which did administer so much comfort & refreshing to me from a sense of the freeness of God's grace, being set upon my heart, with so much power of the Spirit that I was (contrary to the Judgement of Physicians) soon raised to my health again. For indeed I had at that time been exceedingly troubled in my spirit about my sins, which I had been looking back upon; for I had made a Catalogue of them, and spread them before the Lord for pardon: But thinking them to be so many, that God would not pardon them; I did much desire I might die, and go out of the body, and not live any Longer in it, to increase mine iniquities. And although at this time a good Minister did endeavour to comfort me, yet I put comfort from me, and said, it did not belong to me till the God of all grace was pleased to give it in by the power of his Spirit, as before mentioned, and then after our good God had given me a taste of the riches of his pardonning love and grace in Christ Jesus: I was also carried out to pity others, and beg that God would let them also taste of the same; and a particular person was set upon my heart to beg of God for, and in a short time the Lord was pleased to answer my desire in working a work of grace in that soul.  
Then I was called by providence to remove into a dark family, where I had lived some time beofore; and I then finding much opposition against me, was not willing to go thither again, but set myself to pray, not that I might be willing to submit to the will of God, but that I might not remove into that family, though had I then understood it, my call was clear enough, being earnestly desired there unto by my husband, and invited by the family, who now professed they could not be without me, though (when I was there before) they did not affect me well, being lofty, and could not bear such admonitions that sometime letting fall among them, but upon the importunity of my husband and this family; I then at length set myself to seek the Lord, that my heart might be made to submit to his will, what ever it were; and that if I did go, I might some way or other be useful to him in that place. Now that which made me so unwilling to go unto that family, was because of the opposition, that I had met with before in the ways of God, and then a want of the means, both of preaching the word and fellowship with the Saints.  
But upon my earnest seeking, to know the mind of God, and to be brought to submit unto it, my heart was soon made willing to go, which accordingly I did; and I had not been long there before, it pleased the Lord to work upon one of the family (to my great comfort and refreshing) who was one that I looked upon as unlike as any in the family.  
Also the Lord was pleased by death to take away a child from me, which was to my casting down, and for some time I was under a cloud, and questioned whither I were a child of God? and whither my child were saved? In that time a good man laboured to comfort me, telling me before, the Lord gave me a son, he gave me his own son; Oh, said I, that I could see that! why said he, if you will see that, take head of a cursting law, a slandering devil, and an accusing conscience; all which the Lord hath delivered you from, and therefore now wait upon the Lord I am confident the Lord will appear in this thing.  
And the Lord was pleased after seeking of him, to set it upon my heart, that that child was well with him, and that he had such another mercy for me on earth, which he gave me faith in, notwithstanding great oppositions against at that present: yet after some half a years waiting upon the Lord I was assured of it.  

A fit of desertion.  
After this the God of comfort was pleased to withdraw and leave me in a deserted condition, which I found to be very sad, and I was very much perplexed in my spirit, but could not speak of it unto any: But going to hear a Sermon, the Minister was upon that Text: Lord forsake me not utterly (that is to say) not overlong lest the spirit should fail before thee: he than showed what desertion was; and why God doth sometime seem to leave his own people.  
Because (said he) throug some pride, they thought they could walk alone, and so neglected their watch, than God hide his face, that they might see their own insufficiency: and know that all their peace, strength and comfort is in and from him: And this (through mercy) was a great help unto me at that time.  
Further, while I was under that ministry, God was pleased to convince me of the falseness of their Worship, which in that place than was used, and having an opportunity to go with others to the communion (as they call it) I could not kneel as the rest did, but sat down as if I had kneeled; and as I there sat, it came upon my heart to think thus (as if it had been spoken to me) why dissemblest thou a worship before the Lord, he that commands thee to kneel there, may as well command thee to kneel at an Altar, (although at that time there was nothing known of setting up of Altars) which thing I made known to that Minister, and did warn him that if Altars should be set up, that he would not (for filthy lucre sake kneel at them himself, nor compel others so to do: But he told me he could not believe any such thing should be: but if it should be so he promised me he would not conform to them. But in a short time after he found il too true, for Altarts were reared up, and he poor man (contrary to his promise) did comform himself in that thing, and compelled others so to do: but the first time he did so, it pleased the Lord to smite him with a sore languishing disease, that he went out no more.  
Soon after I was at the Christenig of a child (as they call it) at which time God was pleased to convince me of the evil and falseness of that piece of Worship also.  
Then was there in the nation a public fast proclaimed, and by man's invention there was a form of prayer made and appointed to be read in every assembly that fastday, & this was a third conviction that I had about their formal outside way of worship; I had then an opportunity to come into one of those assemblies that fastday while that prayer was reading, at which present this thought came strongly upon me: Is this a worship in spirit and truth which thy soul (when it is upon the wing with God) cannot join with all; for I could not join with the words then read in that foremost prayer.  
Upon which I even melted in my spirit, and fell into shedding of tears, resolving to separate from, and come no more to join in such a way of worship until I had very diligently searched into the true way of God's worship, as it is written in his blessed word; and in order there unto I made use of all the best books I could get, that were then published to that purpose, and also called in the help of many Godly Ministers of several judgement: but when all this was done I was still unsatisfied in that behalf: And then did I cry unto the Lord to teach me, and it was by the Lord set upon my heart, that I must not do any thing in the way of his worship but what I had ground for in his holy word; & that God's Servants were always to observe his pattern in all that they do to him, and that Scripture was much set upon my heart. Rev. 22. verse 18, 19 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book; and if any man shall take away from the words of the Book of this Prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the Book of life, and out of the holy City, and from the things which are written in this book: well still I was put upon it to continue seeking the Kingdom of God and the righteousness thereof, and the promise that all other t●ingt should be added unto me.  
Then did I with some others seek the Lord by fasting and prayer, for council what we should do, and wheter we should go to enjoy communion with the Lord, in the way of his pure worship, and the Lord was pleased in love to answer my desires in a wonderful manner, for being then entangled with a house of which my Husband had a lease for some years; and upon that account was unwilling to remove, not knowing how to dispose of that house: But yet the Lord was pleased in a short time to make him willing that I should remove if I could get of that lease, and some goods I had; which the Lord soon holp me in, by sending one unexpectedly the very next day, after my Husband declared his willigness for my removal upon those conditions, who took of the lease of the house of our hands with those goods, and so I was made free; So forth with I removed to a place where I did enjoy the heating of a good man preach, and had the sweet benefit of some private meetings, which was much refreshing unto me: but yet two things I was very earnest with God for.  
1. One that I might be filled with the clear witness, and full assurance of the eternal Spirit.  
2. And the other, that I might enjoy more full and close communion with God in all his blessed ordinances in both, which God was pleased to answer me in some measure; as to the first he did let me see that I had sinned against him, in that I again questioned that assurance which before he had given me in; and then he brought (with most wonderful renewing power) those Scriptures, which many years before at several times under several ordinances were, set with much power and evidence upon my heart: But first God was pleased to show me that it was only unbeief that had caused me (at the appearance of temptation and corruption) to question his love and doubt about his kindness, and so to conclude against myself: But the Lord did show me that all this doubting was from my evil heart of unbelief, the sense of which one morning especially God did set upon my spirit to the breaking of my heart; so that for three days together I was greatly afflicted in my spirit: and continued crying unto God, as one that could not be anij longer contented without the Light of his countenance with a renewing seal of his Love, long sought with sighs, prayers and tears, and in the third day morning he did send the comforther the Spirit, which with inward light, life, and power set upon my heart these following Scriptures: 1 John. 3: 2. Now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be.  
But rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. Luke 10: verse 20.  
And who soever will, let him come and take of the waters of life freely. Revel. 22. 17.  
And my grace is sufficient for thee. 2 Cor. 12: 9  
Oh! I cannot utter the joy that then was in my heart by the mighty operation of the spirit: And then after that, this word came upon my spirit, and grieve not the holy Spirit, whereby thou art sealed unto the day of redemption; and than God did answer me, that there was sufficiency in his grace in Christ, to pardon all my sins past, present, and to come.  
Then as to my other desire which was aftet more communion with God in his ordinances. After waiting, the Lord was pleased to set it upon my heart, to believe that my habitation should be removed, and that I should enjoy my desire by (the time called) Easter, and so it was accordingly; and I through mercy, after I had gotten the renewigs of the seal and clear witness of the Spirit, lived for about a quarter of a year as it were in Heaven upon earth, but then began a cloud again to araise, and I was under the buffet of some sore temptations, God with drawing in a great measure (though not the witness of the Spirit yet the come forts of his Spirit which before I did enjoy; and I conceive this might be the cause of it (which I wish all others may take heed of, for it cost me dear) under that swe●t soul refreshing communion I had with our heavenly Father, I gave way to some doubtings and questionning, whither there was not a delusion in the thing I then enjoyed.  
This temptation lasted some six days, and I had no peace, day nor night when I was awake, to think that I should grieve so good a God, and cause him to depart from me.  
And Satan not changing his weapons, made me think that there was something in me that I did not so fully resist him, for when our dear Lord Jesus was tempted, he by his powerful resistance made him to change them.  
So I lay mourning before the Lord, but could not set to praying for the violence of this temptation. Then mysleep deputed, and I grew sick, & then God gave me to mind that Abraham's w●r● lay before me, when he went to offer sacrifice he was to drive away the fowls, Gen. 15. this work the Lord directed me to do by laying hold upon Jesus Christ, who had prayed for me, though I could not now pray for myself. Jo. 15: v. 17, 19 And so soon as my heart was brought to believe this, I was presently delivered, and in all this temptation the Lord hid not his face from me, blessed be his name.  
And then as the Lord carried me over the Sea, where I did enjoy further and fuller communion with himself in his ordinances, he gave me another occasion for the exercise of saith and Patience.  
For whilst I was upon that voyage, the vessel that I was in was pursued with enemies, and troubled with contrary winds, so that we were in great straits.  
But God gave me to believe that he that delivered Paul out of his straits, would also deliver us out of ours, and so it was, blessed be his name; and so very safely was I carried unto that place that the Lord called me unto▪  
But presently after I was there arrived the Lord was pleased to exercise me with several afflictions.  
First by taking away a child by death, and then by laying upon myself such a distemper that my joints and sinews were by fits bound up, that I could not stir them, nor take any rest while it lasted, my pain was so great, no Doctor could do me any good (though several physicians consulted what to do for me) But concluded, there was no help but I must die.  
But when I heard that, I said, there is yet help in God, and it was set upon me to believe, that if I could but touch the hemm of the garment of Jesus Christ, that is believingly go to him, I should be healed, being also put in mind of that promise, that whosoever forsake any thing for his sake and the Gospels, Mat. 19: 29. should receive an hundredfold; then I cried, Lord give me to be healed of this distemper by thee seeing thou art pleased to deny help by man.  
And one day our Pastor called in to visit me, as he was going to the meeting, whom I did desire to pray for me, and to stir up the brethren to join with him, and I much encouraged him that they should pray in faith, believing for what they asked, telling him that by faith and prayer he would assuredly heal me, and verily according unto my faith it was done unto me, for ever blessed be God for J. Christ, for as they were praying in his name the distemper departed.  
Next the Lord was pleased to lay his afflicting hand upon another of my children, than did I much desire that all afflictions might be sanctified rather then removed, and that by all I might be made more conformable unto Jesus Christ was I helped then to read and mind t'had place in Job, Job 34: 32. That which I see not teach thou me; if I have done iniquity, I will do no more.  
Then our Pastor coming again to visit me, I asked him how we should know the mind of God in these many afflictions, he answered me, that a man having an orchard or vineyard walks therein, and among all the trees he makes choice it may be of some one tree, whose standing is more pleasant and convenient than others; and that tree he chaps, & hacks and makes an Arbour to sit in for his delight, and said he, if God will do so by you, will you not there with be content? Oh! yes said I: if that be the good will of my heavenly father; and blessed be God I did find it so; for though I have sowed in tears, I have reaped in joy, and have found the times of greatest outward trouble, and affliction have been the only times of greatest inward and spiritual joy and soul consolation, verily I cannot express with tongue nor pen the large experience I have had upon this account.  
And this I have found, that when a poor soul is faithful and single hearted for God walking up to the light id hath received, this is the very way to enjoy the presence of God and his blessing upon him, in what state and condition so ever he is in; for this I can declare from mine own experience that lose is the way to gain, troublet is the way to peace, sorrow is the way to joy, and death is the way to life; he that looseth his life for my sake, saith Jesus Christ, the same shall find it, through the valley of tears lieth the way to the mountain of joy; for whilst I set myself in good earnest to seek the Lord for instruction into the truth as it is in Jesus, I met with many difficulties; but yet out prayer hearing God was pleased to come in by degrees; having through his grace given me faith in his son (who was exalted as a Prince and a Sàviour to give me repentance) made me also willing to be baptised for the remission of sins.  
Now that which made me willing to obey the Lord, in this Ordinance was the Command of Jesus Christ in Mat. 28: 19 and Act. 10: 48. and the example of Christ and the practice of the Apostles, and primitive Saints, together with the promise of the gift of the Holy Ghost annexed thereunto Acts 2: 38. And indeed this truth a last was so set upon my heart by the Lord, that though many difficulties lay in the way, yet the Lord carried me through them all: and after I had obeyed the Lord therein (in very faithsulness I must declare that I did enjoy the incomes of God in a more plentisul manner then before: But Satan for some time laboured to hinder me in obeying the Lord in this piece of service, with this temptation, that by this means a death (in all likelihood and in an eye of reason) would fall upon my livelihood, but God made it a furtherance to me and to others also, so that many of us were at that time (after waiting on God by fasting and prayer) baptised together.  
And after that the Lord was pleased to bless me in my employment that following year, with more than ordinary success, by which the Devil was proved a liar.  
But afterward I had some fears, that my employment might be a suare unto m●e (as the world is to many) and that I should be too earthly in it, for this Scripture did follow me very much, (which I desire to give good heed unto) Oh! Earth, Earth, hear the word of the Lord. And often in prayer I did cry unto God, saying, speak Lord, for thy servant desires to hear; and was very desirous to know, what the Lord would have me to understand by this word; and when I had considered I found some thing in my employment sinsul, and a hindrance unto my spiritual enjoyments, to convince me of which, the Lord wa● pleased to with hold his blessing upon that employment, which before I had found therein; to the convincing and converting of some to himself, so finding something in it contrary to his will, I was constrained to leave it of, and after much seeking of the Lord for council, these Scriptures were much with me, Math. 7: 7. Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and ye shall find: knock●, and it shall be opened unto you.  
If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your father, which is in heaven, give good things to them that ask him. Math. 7: 11.  
And on my servants, and on my hand maidens will I pour out of my spirit, and they shall prophecy. Acts 2: 18.  
These promises did dwell with me for a long season, so that I was much stirred up to pray to the Lord, that he would please to accomplish them upon me, and pour out of his blessed Spirit upon me. And after long seeking (especially one day) being very earnest and importunate with the Lord, after which I went out to walk, and on a sudden I was endued with the gift of singing, in such a way and manner as I had not been acquainted with before; and immediately this following song came in (as fast as I could sing) as followeth: it was in the year 1655. in the Month of February.  

Come home, come home, thy work is done,  
My glory thou shalt see;  
Let all the meek ones of the earth  
Come home along with thee.   

Cast of the world, it is too base  
And low for thee to dwell;  
I have redeemed thee from the pit,  
And lowest place of Hell.   

Admire, admire my love to thee,  
Which took thee from so low,  
And set thee in high places free,  
Where thou my love mightst know   

Wing thou aloft, and cast thyself  
Into mine Arms of love;  
Look up, look up, and thou shalt see  
My glory is above.   

Let not the wicked know thy joy:  
But let my servants hear  
What I have done for thee my love,  
Since thou to me drewest near.   

My servants walk in clouds and boggs,  
They do not see my light:  
The day draws near, and will appear,  
That I will shine most bright.   

I will appear in my glory, and be a perfect light.  
Admire, admire, the thing that I will do,  
All nations shall it hear, and know  
What I am doing now.   

I will a habitation be  
To them that fear my name;  
They shall lie down in safety, and  
Give glory to the same.   

All they that in high places sit,  
And takes their honours low,  
Shall be made tremble, quake, and pine,  
When they my justice know.   

Come hide, come hide, come hide with me,  
Come hide thee in the Rock;  
Come draw thy Comforts high from me,  
I my treasures unlock.   
Also it was agreed upon by some of the Lords people, with whom I was then present, that we should appoint and keep a day of solemn seeking the Lord by fasting and prayer; that we might know what was the duty God's poor Children ought to be found in at that time: but after this was agreed upon, and the day appointed: I was before the time came removed about 30 miles from them, and so that thing went out of my mind: but God by his Spirit set me upon the same work, by five in the morning the same day, and about the middle of the day God brought to my remembrance that agreement, so we were at the same work at the same time, though far distant one from another; and indeed the Lord was graciously present, pouring out much of the spirit of prayer and supplication; after which earnest seeking of God, was this following prophesy given in unto me: 
Shall light appear, and darkness done away:  
Shall Summer green be clothed all in grey:  
Shall a bright morning set in shadowees dark,  
Oh! England, England●, take heed thou dost not smart.   
And after this prophecy was set upon my heart that notable promise: 2 Chro. 7: 14. I● my people, which are called by my name, turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and forgive their sin and will heat their Land.  
Next morning, about four of the clock, being in my bed, I had this laid before me, that God would afflict that nation with great afflictions: but I (not knowing what God would try the Nation with) did desire this of the Lord, that I might choose with David, rather to fall into the hands of God, then into the hands of merciless men: it was much upon my heart at that time; that the Lord would turn a fruitful land into barrenness, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein.  
Then the Lord was pleased to lay upon me a sore affliction, which I finding myself very unable to bear, did as it were repent me that I in any measure had chosen my condition, and did not rather wholly submit to the will of God; but the Lord did me good by it, and his strength was made persect in my weakness.  
Then was it much set upon my heart to consider what then were the sins of the nation, for which there was cause of great humiliation; and indeed the consideration of these following evils was much set upon my heart.  
1. That great sloathfulness, deadness, and unfruitfulness under the means of grace which we enjoyed, for which the Lord threatened of old, Isa. 5: vers 5, 6. To lay his vineyard waste, to pluck up the hedge and break down the wall there of.  
2. That great abounding sin of unbelief (notwithstanding the large experiences we had of God's power for us, and love to us.) And this I saw did cause persons to seek themselves and the world. Unbelief cut them and us short of that rest that many (yea the most of us) promised to our selves, As this unbelief of old cut Israel short of rest, Heb. 3: 10, 11.  
3. That Idolatry which me thought I saw abounding in the nation in a threefold sense.  
1. First in respect of false ways of worship, contrary to the rule of the Gospel and primitive exemple.  
2. Secondly in respect also of resting upon duty, and so not resting upon jesus Christ that Rock of ages; this also was one of poor Israel's evils, crying out the Temple of Lord, etc. jer. 7: 4.  
3. In respect of covetousness, this in Scripture is called Idolatry also; Oh! that too too earnest desire! that was in some after the Foulish vanities of this present evil world, and in others after the vain profits of the world, and in others also after the vain glory and preferment thereof: these things were much upon my heart, and this was that for which God was angry of old with his people, and smote them; and hid his face from them. Isa. 57: 17.  
4. Fourthly, That pride that I saw abounding in the lives of many, & I fear was in the hearts of others. Which appeared in their slighting the Council of God's Spirit: and their persifting to go on in seeking and setting up self, notwithstanding the hand of God against them.  
These sins being very much set upon my heart, with a deep consideration of many Scriptures: some of them was very great and sore threatenings: and other some were most sweet and precious promises to such as repent and depart from all iniquity; one of which I remember was that very remarkable place, 2 Chron. 7: 14.  
Then I looked upon it as my duty to make this known, that people might be warned to depart from sin, that so they might not partake of the great wrath and sore displeasure of God, which I much feared, was coming.  
Then soon after I had an opportunity to declare this to some that then were in high places, and in the very entering I had this added, which I also declared.  
Didst thou not hear a voice from on high,  
Deny yourselves (take up the cross) or verily you shall die?  
And this was approved on by some, and received as a very sluitable and seasonable word; but pour souls, for not harkening unto council in departing from sin they were soon brought down, and laid low, yet there is mercy with the Lord that he may be feared, and he will manifest his love to all them that truly repent, and we may all make a good use of this experience; therefore let others harms become our warnings. Also about the year 1658. to the best of my remembrance. [for having lost my book, in which I had set them down in order, I now wait only upon the Lord, and as he by his Spirit helps me, so I give an account of these things) It was given in with abundance of power upon my spirit, these few words following.  
Awake therefore to righteousness, This was again brought to mind in January 1662. The Lord is near at hand: And will afflict now very sore By sea and like by land.  
And this seems to agree with, and is a further addition to what was given me in before in the Year 1657. which is as followeth.  
There is a time approaching near at hand,  
That men shall be in fear by sea and land:  
There is a time, there will be alteration;  
And this same time doth hasten to this nation;  
Let now my children hearken to my will,  
And they shall see I will be with them still.  
These with many more such things came upon my spitit, and then after seeking the Lord he was pleased to show me by degrees what was the work of the day (for I am a stranger and a Pilgrim, therefore I seek sor a Kingdom whose Builder and Maker is God. I desire not to set up the Idol of covetousness, but to have it to be my meat and drink, to do the will of my Father, which is in heaven; and 'tis my only desire to deny myself, and to honour him) seeking to know the present work of the day: some Scriptures with many waity considerations were set upon my heart, Hezekiahs' prayers and tears, which were accepted of God, when his heart was broken; A broken and a comrite heart is acceptable in the sight of God, and he will dwel● with such. Isa. 57: 15. rend your hearts and not your garments, and turn to the Lord; indeed when much of the form of Godliness appears, but the power is waming, than it is a time to mourn, and in some it hath been so in all ages, theresore God's Prophet was b●d cry aloud, and spare not, Isa. 58: 1. When sinlies hiden in the heart, nothing is accepted, Isai. 58: 2. Yet you seek me early and desire to know my ways as a nation that did righteousness; read and mind the whole Cnap. Isa. 15: 16. Cease to do evil, saith the Lord, and learn to do well, etc.  
But unto the wicked, God saith, what hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth, seenig, thou hatest to be reform? then it came upon my heart that the duty of the present time was for the people of God to be very much in these following things.   

The work of the day.  
1. First, to be watchful that the ca●es of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches make us not to forget the coming of Christ, and the glory that shall then be revealed.  
2. Secondly, be moderate in all things, the Lord is at hand; be patient, and act much faith; be much in prayer, do good, lay up treasures in heaven; these be all very weighty things.  
3. Be much in humiliation, seek not great things for yourselves, in a day when God is pulling down.  
God pronounceth a 〈◊〉 to them that are at case in Zion, that put far away the evil day, and cause the seat of violence to come near; A mos 6. vers. 3, 4, 5, 6. that lie upon beds of Ivory, and stretch themselves upon their couches, and eat the lambs out of the flock, and the calves out of the midst of the stall, and so fill themselves in seasting, delighting in Music, and drinking wine in bowls, but are not grieved for the afflictions of Joseph.  
And the same evil the Prophet Isaiah complains of also in the 22 of Isa. vers. 5, 9, 12, 13, 14. In that day the Lord God of H●asts called to weeping and mourning, and to baldness, and girding with sackcloth, and behold joy and 〈◊〉, slaying oxen, and killing of sheep, etc. In what day was this, you may s●e in the 5, and 9 verses; it was a day of trouble, and steading down and perplexity: But see how the Lord takes notice of this their contrary ●●●riage in the 14 verse: he chargeth it upon them, as such an iniquity, as he tells them, shall not be purged from them till they die verse the 14.  
It is said, when the Judgements of God are abroad in the earth, the inhabitants thereof shall learn righteousness.  
But it is threatened, they shall have no peace who go on in the ways of sin and wickedness, but all that would have peace, must come from sin unto Jesus Christ, and walk in the way of peace, by this way we hide in the rock, and enter into the secret chambers, where God had promised to keep us till his indignation be over past.  
Then, benig troubled in my spirit, the Lord was pleased to give in these following promises as special comforts against those great and public calamities, which were coming.  
I even, I am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. Isai. 34, 25.  
I also will leave in the midst of thee an afflicted and poor people, and they shall trust in the name of the Lord. Zeph. 3: 12.  
And they shall be mine, saith the Lord, in the day that I make up my jewels, and I will spare them as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. Malachy 3: 17.  
And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat they bones, and thou shall be like a wattered garden, and like springs of water whose waters fail not. Isa. 58: 11.  
And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will show to you to day; for the Egyptians, whom you have seen to day, you shall see them again no more ●or ever. Exod. 14: 13.  
The name of the Lord is a strong Tower, the Righteous run into it, and is safe. Prov. 18: 10.  
They, that wait upon the Lord, shall renew their strentgh, they shall mount up with wings as Eagles, they shall run and not be weary: and they shall walk and not faint. Isa. 40: 31.  
Also the Lord set it upon my heart, how the people of God ought to carry it in such a day of calamity; namely, that they ought to have upon their hearts a deep sense of sin, which is the cause of sorrow, as Lots righteous soul was grieved with the unclean conversation of the wicked; therefore God took care of him, and he was preserved when others were destroyed with the fiery storm of Gods.  
Also God is pleased to set a mark upon the foreheads of them that mourn for the abomination of the times.  
Also it was given me in to believe, that God would be a wall of fire about his people; with this promise: That all things shall work together for good, to them that love God, who are the called, according to his purpose. Rom. 8: 28.  
And the Lord said, All things were made for himself, and nothing shall be destroyed without me.  
And God appeared unto Abraham, saying, I am God alsufficient, etc. Gen. 17: 1.  
Let my word be a light to thy feet, and a Lantern to thy paths, for I will keep them in perfect peace, whose minds are stayed on me, because they trust in me.  
And the Lord is the portion of his people.  
And they are to him as the apple of his eye. Zech. 8: 2, 8. And as a gsigne/ upon his right-hand: And he to them is a strong tower, a buckler, and shield, a Captain, and leader of his people, and it is written; When ye see these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads, for your redemption draweth nigh. Luke 21: 28.  
If you had but so much faith as a grain of mustered seed, you should say unto this mount●in, be removed, into the Sea; Christ reprove Peter, for the smallness of his faith; All things are possible to them that believe.  
Fear not them that can kill the body: but f●ar him that can destroy both body and soul in hell. Math. 10: 28.  
Fear not little flo●k, it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the Kingdom. Luke 12: 32.  
See that you be not troubled, for these things must be; but the end is not yet, nation shall rise against nation, and Kingdom against Kingdom; and ye shall hear of wars and run o'er of wars: but he that watcheth over Israel neither slumbereth nor sleepeth.  
He that believeth on me, as the Scriptures hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water; but this s●ake he of the spirit, that they, that believe on him, should receive: and is promised to be poured out in the latter days.  
After these promises and instructions followed thi● so●g, in the year 1658. 
Oh, 〈◊〉 my soul! give glory to the Lord.  
〈◊〉 this rich mer●y he doth thee asoard;  
He made the hearens, and ordered every light;  
He takes the hearts up of his people cue.   
And as I was on a Journey, this also was given in: 
When that this green shall blossom bear,  
And bi●ds shall pleasant sing;  
Then shall there be a kn●ll most sad,  
In every place, beard ring.   
Then did the Lord pour out upon me much of the spirit of prayer, and praising, with the knowledge of other things, which he is bringing to pas●: In so much that I was much broken before him, to see my own unworthiness, and his goodness, a sense of which I lay under for some season, not long after I had a great sit of sickness; and I was enquiring of God, what his mind should be in that affliction: he showed me, it was because I did not declare to the Church with whom I walked; those things he had made known unto me.  
But benig troubled at my own insufficiency; and they benig unacquainted with such things; and indeed myself did question at the first, whether it were the guilt of God or no? (the gift of singing.) Then the Lord was pleased to set it upon my heart, that as those prophecies were true, and should come to pass, so should I know that this was the true gift of God, given in unto me.  
And it was so when the spring came on, then began that sickness of agues and fevers, that have continued ever since, little or much, and there followed two dry summers one after another, and also we had many light appearances; but they set in dark shadows, tili Christ our light shall appear, and in great mercy take away and remove our dark and sad afflictions, and sorrows; well now, I was at last so moved in my spirit, that I could not tell how to keep in these things any longer, and therefore went to the Church to that end, but I than could not find him that I would have spoken of it unto, for him to declare unto the rest, so I returned, and did it not.  
Then the Lord afflicted me again, and then I besought him again, and he gave me to mind that I was justly afflicted for neglecting, to make it known, then being raised up again, I did declare something, but not so fully as I should; and indeed would have done fearing, it would not be born, for which I was mourning before the Lord: and as I was mourning, I was put upon singing, as followeth:  

Cease thou thy mourning, and see thou dost praise,  
For thou shalt do my will in all my ways:  
Thy work shall be praises now sor to sing,  
Because thou hast chosen Chri●t to be thy King.   

Lift up your heads redemption draweth near,  
Do not at all possess thy heart with fear:  
Lift up your heads, and look to heaven high;  
For God will make his people glorisy.   

Draw water from the wells that are so deep:  
You shall drink flagons of my love, when others are astheep.   
Then still sought I God what I might do to honour God in my generation; and about three days after it was set upon my heart in the night, that I must writ my experiences; but then I thought, oh, how should I remember thirty years' experiences! but then presently came in these promises.  
Fear thou not, for I am with thee; be not dismayed; for I am thy God, I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will up hold thee with the right-hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41: 10.  
Fear not, thou worm jacob, I will help thee, saith the Lord, and thy Redeemer the holy one of Israel. vers. 14. Commit thy way unto the Lord, trust also in him, and he shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37: 5.  
Great things have I laid up for them that fear me among the sons of men.  
The next day I set my house in order, that I might go about this work that the Lord had called me unto, and until I went about it, this word followed me; be instructed lest my Spirit depart from thee; and as soon as I set upon my work, it left me, and I found the Lord (according to his promise) mightily assisting me, in bringing things to my remembtance and I wrig them down, and had some thoughts to put them in print; but yet through the corruptions of my heart, and the advice of a friend, I was not willing they should be published whilst I am living: my reason was, because I am a poor weak worthless worm, and have not the parts and gifts that some others have.  
And because I am an old fruitless branch, my memory fails, and my understanding is so dull, that I am (and was at the best) a poor empty one, which I cannot but acknowledge with tears and brokenness of heart.  
Oh, that the Lord should be so good to me! and I can bring no more glory and honour to him; but yet notwithstanding I must give glory to God, for that he hath been pleased to pour out of his Spirit upon me, and since that, to fill my soul with very sweet choice, and heavenly enjoyments from himself.  
The most large measure of the spirit of prophecy was upon me at two particular times, the one in the year one thousand six hundred and fifty five.  
And the other in the year 1658, but at many times God was pleased to give me much of the spirit of prayer and praise.  
Then by his hand of providence I was removed again out of England into Holland, and I brought the papers of my experiences with me: which (the Ship being cast away) were lost, with the trunk in which they were: Then was it much set upon my heart, that God was displeased with me, for not putting them in print, and then the gift of singing and praising was much ceased, and I was troubled; for the which I sought the Lord, and did begg', that if he were offended at me, for not printing, and leaving them behind me, that he would pardon it unto me; and that, if it were his good pleasure, I should write them again. I did pray, that he would let his Spirit come to enable me again in singing and prayer, as it was wont to do, and be my remembrancer to write again: and indeed it did so, not long after, in the night; both in song, and in prayer.  
But then I having not time, was much hindered? yet notwithstanding (according to the time I had) I set myself to do it; and the Lord was pleased to assist me, in bringing again to my remembrance things of long standing.  
Now before I departed from England, I was satisfied in my spirit, that I had a clear call from thee Lord so to do; for indeed more than a year I had such a motion in my spirit, backed with many Scriptures for its furtherance.  
Yet notwithstanding in this Voyage we met which some diffciulty, for the Ship I came over in was cast away; but in the time of the greatest trouble the Lord gave me in these promises; that he would be with me in six troubles, and in the seventh he would not forsake me.  
Call upon me in the day of trouble, I will hear thee, and deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.  
With this sweet word also, thou shalt not die, but live, to see the mercy I will show unto thee.  
It was in the night, and after some time (the Ship being a ground, and in great danger, and so were all the persons in it) one asked me, if I were not afraid? I answered, the God of heaven my Father hath brought me hither, and if he may have more honour in drowning of me, then by preserving me, his will be done.  
Then, when the mast was cut down, and the Master with some others said, we are dead persons, and like to lose our lives, yet I had much hope in the Lord, because of his promise, and after that I (and some others in the Ship with me) had committed ourselves unto God by prayer, I being in the Cabbon, laid me down to sleep: but I had not (it seems) lain half an hour, but they called us, and said, there was Land not far of, if we would seek for help? which accordingly we did.  
But it being but about the break of the day, we did wander over the sand●, but could find no way out of the sea, as it were, compassing us above round; then we all returned to the Ship again, and some concluded we must go in an perish there; so they went in again.  
But we said, if we must perish, we would be still seeking to save our lives.  
And as our God (to whom we had committed ourselves) guided us, we went another way on the sands, and as I was going (looking to God to be my Pilot) not knowing whether we went, for the sea was one both sides of us, and we had but a small way on the sands to walk in; and as I was begging of the Lord, to keep in the seastill we found out a place, not only for our own escape, but that we might see deliverance for our friends in the Ship also, the Lord was pleased to set this upon my heart.  
As thy deliverance is, so shall England's be, when they are brought to greatest straits, then will deliverance be from God.   

A hint of some night meditations and effects of prayer.  
I being awake one night, and very full of trouble in my mind, because I was no more spiritual, for I had found myself very dead-hearted in prayer over night; for the which I was very sadly afflicted in spirit; and indeed then wanting place of retirement (to send up strong cries unto the Lord) did much deaden my spirit, for I found it was the practice of Jesus Christ, sometime to be in the wilderness, sometime in the mountain all night in prayer alone, and sometimes alone in the gardin; and I find prayer in secret much accepted with God, according to that word, Pray to thy ●ather in secret, and he will reward thee openly: Math. 6: 6. indeed so full of sorrow was I that I uttered no words, but sig●d and groaned to the Lord.  
Then this came in,  
Upon the 〈◊〉 thou shalt live,  
〈…〉 of ●o●e I will the 〈◊〉:  
〈…〉 be made all times to see,  
〈…〉 flows in me.  
Then did I groave before the Lord, that he would give in some promise: the Lord cast in this that the grace or prayer was before the gift of prayer, and that this was the grace of prayer to give up ourselves in faith to the guidance of the spirit, and so by ●aith to have communion with the Father and the Son, in the Spirit, for Christ t●ld the Woman. John. 4: v. 21, 22, 23. Neither in thus mountain no● in jerusalem sha●l m●n worship the Father but the ●our is coming, a now us, when the true worshipp●rs shall worship the Father in Spirit and i● truth, sor the ●ather s●●keth such to worship him; God is a Spirit, and they that worship him must worship him in Spirit and in truth: This Woman than could say, that Christ would teach all things; why should not we look for the teachings of the Spirit now, seeing Christ hath not only been with us in the flesh, God and man, but had also promised us the pourings out of the Spirit, to teach us all things: and to bring all things to our remembrance.  
Then further I was mourning that I could not enjoy the ordinances of God ●n their purity; and the Lord shown me that I must offer up my 〈◊〉: And when Abraham went to do that, he left his servants below the hill; and consulte● not with flesh and blood.  
Also afterwards I had such wondered experience of communion with God, through the Spirit, as I am not able to utter it.  
I awaking another night, was greatly complaining, that the flesh did so 〈◊〉 in the Spirits work, that when I world do good, evil is present. ●●en did the spirit put me upon uttering many heavenly complaints in a way of singing, and after that, with the help of the Spirit, to pray with much enlarg●dness.  
And a●ter that there was by the same spirit, with very much power this word: Be silent before me all flesh.  
Oh! and then followed the wondered speakings of God by his blessed Spirit to my poor soul, which I cannot utter as to the manner of them, b●t the nature of them was exceeding comforting to myself; and also filled 〈◊〉 with great hopes to all the people of God.  
And now hereby do I know, that it was the Spirit of God and of truth that did work at this time, because it did lay me low, and flat before him, that is holy, and made me see my own insufficiency, and his great all sufficiency, which did much humble me, and broke, and melted me exceedingly, than was this promise given in; That they that waiton the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as Eagles, they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint.  
And my heart was very much drawn out to wait upon God, in a way of believing, both for myself and people of God, having that word as it were whispered in my ear: If thou canst believe, all things are possible.  
Another time I was considering, that though I had been a Professor many years, yet I though! indeed I was but a babe in Christ, than that word came upon me: Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings thou hast ordained praise.  
And indeed I can encourage the most simple and weak, to wait on the Lord, for his grace is sufficient.  
At this time I was taught by the spirit, that prayer was another thing then some take it to be; it is of a divine nature, and they only, whom God helpeth, can pray, for it is not words that is always needful, for a soul may pray and utter no words, and have sweet communion with God by faith; yet words sometimes affect the heart, and I have sometimes found the voice cannot be kept in, the heart may be so filled. Therefore I blame none, but desire to be tender of all, for God accepts what himself gives, outward performances is as the shell without the kernel; if the spirit act not, but what of his own spirit is in any duty that God doth accept. And we read of the poor woman in the Gospel, who met with some discouragements, yet by the power of faith being enabled to hold on; oh! how greatly he commended her faith, and answered her desire, though her words were but few, only, Lord help me, etc.  
And hannah's prayer was heard, who did but move her lips: And although she was a woman of a sorrowful spirit before, yet she went away believing, and also rejoicing that God had heard her prayer.  
So the desires of them that fear him shall be answered, and he will hear their cry.  
Daniel, before he made his supplication, was answered, the groaning of the spirit before the Lord is a loud cry, the prayer of faith doth save the sick.  
The Lord is a very present help in the time of need.  
They that trust in him, shall not be disappointed.  
Nay he takes pleasure in them that fear him, and that hopes in his mercy.  
Therefore let them that call on the name of the Lord depart from iniquity.  
Further, my heart being carried out long to wait for, and expect their teachings of the spirit more fully to be given me: and therefore, if any thing comes in further, it is not of nor from myself, but the Spirit of Gods working in and upon a poor weak creature, who though I be very unfit to publish any thing of this nature to the world, yet according to my measure I would with that poor woman do what I can with willingness and cheerfulness, for God loves a cheerful heart in his work, and the Apostle saith, if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted, according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.  
Yet I am much encouraged to believe that this work is of the Lord, for I have found the flesh exceeding opposet thereunto, and when I have neglected it, God hath withdrawn himself from me, and when I set to it in good earnest, than God returns and let me enjoy sweet communion with himself: And the more, the Lord appeared at the first come in of these things upon my soul, the more his love broke my heart, that I was wonderfully affected to behold the freeness of his grace to such a one.  
And verily the more watchful I was against sin and unto duty, the more of his divine presence was afforded, which is so gloriously sweet to enjoy, that the more I had, the more still I would have, and still longed for, not only in the day, but in the night also, harkening what God spoke, and in the night his way to my soul hath been to come in with many sweet seasonable and powerful instructions, stirring me up to pray, teaching me how to pray, and what to pray for, increasing my faith and confidence, to believe for that I have prayed for, both for myself and others (and also stirring me up to praising him) and I find that giving myself wholly to the disposing of God in prayer, is a very good thing: also this fear hath been upon me sometimes, that I should offer unto God that which cost me nothing, that is, to lay on't the choicest, and most of the day about the world, and then bring the sleepy head to God for a sacrifice: I minding the spirituality of true prayer, and my unfitness for it, I have found the council of our Lord Jesus Christ very useful, where he saith, Watch and pray. Math. 26: 41.  
And the Apostle saith, Watch unto prayer. Pet. 1: 4, 7. yet I have found often, when I have been to pray unto God, my heart have been very dead, and I could not get it into so spiritual a form as I would, yet durst not neglect the daily waiting upon God in that duty: but even then made it my work to petition the Lord, to compose my spirit and quicken me by his grace and holy Spirit, that I might not offer the blind the halt, and lame in sacrifice unto God: And indeed then God hath so, come in upon my spirit, that I ha●● had more communion with himself yea more than at some other time, when I have been apt to think myself more fit.  
At other times when I have not found God coming in to help me, I have gone a way and waited his time, for unless God enlarge our hearts, it is not good for us to en large in words, for God is in heaven and thou on the earth, therefore let thy words befew (thy words mark that) and bodily exercise profiteth nothing, my son give me thy heart, saith God. Eccles. 5: 2.  
The poor man that said, God be merciful unto me a Sinner, went a way more accepted or rather Justified then the Pharise, in the time before the coming of Christ in the flesh, if God's people could not bring a lamb fo ra sacriffice, if they brought but two pigeons, or a little flower, if it were brought to the Priest, it was accepted, so if we come to him that Justifies the ungodly, and hath promised to do all our works in us, and for us beholding his alsufficiency, and submit to him, and be content with that he will give us, as well in spirit vals as in temperals, the Lord will accept of us, only believing we must flee unto the horns of the Althar.  
And I have found, when I have neglected prayer, my heart hath been very dead and full of unbelief: And again, I have found it no comfort to rest upon duties, for that is a dangerous evil to set up such an Idol in the heart; but here in lay my comfort, when I by faith could have communion with God, and coming near to him, could cast my burden upon him, and go away quiet in my mind, that Christ would do all for me; and when I was willing, God shtould do what he pleased with me, and my will was brought to his will; then have I had the mercy I have asked, and more also many times.  
I have found retired places and watch, the best opportunities and greatest advantages unto prayer.  
Also I have had many temptations against prayer, but the best way to overcome them, is to mind the command of Jesus Christ, which is that we should watch unto prayer, and pray always, keep close to the duty in the strength of Christ, and lose not the motions of the Spirit neither grieve the Spirit by sin, but watch against all appearances of evil, for I hahave found that the neglect of watchfulness against sin: and being overcome by it, doth greatly deaden the heart to duty; keep your eyes upon the promises by faith, look up unto Christ in prayer, and let all take heed of setting up prayer, or any other duty, above, or in the room of Jesus Christ.  
I● God assist you to pray for a mercy, though he give it not in presently, yet hold on if your ask be according to his will, and your end the glory of God, and ye find enlargement from the Spirit of life, you may be sure he will be answer you in that thing or else in some thing better for you in his own season.  
Myself sought the Lord 20 years, for one thing, before I had an answer, but at last being at prayer, after I had done, God gave me in a most gracious answer, and set down the very time of deliverance, and did accordingly accomplish it at the very time; to him be the praise.  
And many other things I have sought the Lord for, and he hath been pleased to grant my desire, especially when he hath made me earnest and importunate, and have assisted me to hold on, and given me a spirit of faith, to believe for the thing prayed for.  
Another time I sought the Lord for a relation of mine, who was thought to be near unto death, and this was given in, call upon me in the day of trouble, I will h●ar and deliver, and thou shalt glorify me, and ●rom that time that person amended, and life was continued.  
Also I knew another young person that was, by the word preached, convinced of her sinsul state, and set upon the performance of some duties: but not being acquainted with the wiles and temptations of Satan, afterward some deadness ceasing upon her spirit, began to neglect her duty; but one in the family perceiving of it, advised her to present herself before the Lord, and although she found herself dead, yet to pray that she might pray, whose conucel she took, and she continuing diligent, the Lord came in by the mighty witness of his spirit, fully satisfying her soul in a very short time.  
Further: oh! let all that fear God be encouraged to continue in, and not neglect family duties, for I have found by good experience many wrought upon by instructions and prayer, when their lot have been cast into those families, where reading, praying, and Catechising, and such duties have been faithfully performed; o, many young ones have been brought home to God, by his blessing upon this means!  
And amongst many more I remember one who was very strongly assaulted with many temptariones to keep her from coming to, and clossing with Jesus Christ, and this temptation was most upon her, that she was too young, and it would be time enough afterward, why should she expose herself to scorn and reproach by being called a Puritan, and so become a luaghing stock to others: but the Lord was pleased to overcome her, and bring her to himself.  
X Another also who set herself against them in the family, that wished her souls good, and used all means to g●t out of that family, to which end also she raised some lies, which very evil the Lord set upon her heart, and then she came to be convinced of her sad sinful state, and was also brought home to God through his rich grace in Jesus Christ.  
And another who by this means was wrought upon that, was a young maid, a Minister's Daughter, and had been well instructed and educated from a child, whereby she was informed of the evils of scandalous sins and avoided them, and was also very constant in the performance of duties; and indeed so walked as none could see aught a mice in her conversation, yet notwithstanding the poor heart was ignorant of herself, and of Jesus Christ; but she being under a family Catechising, and instruction was (by the mighty power of the eternal Spirits working) convinced of original sin, and then she see that (for all her formality) she was a sinner, and had need of a Saviour, and so was brought home to close with Jesus Christ,  
This also I have found, that a constant close seeking of God hath been crowned with his presence, for I myself was with some others desired to pray to the Lord for council, and direction for them; but they would not tell me in what it was that they sought direction, yet notwithstanding I did not know the thing, I set myself to seek God for them, and he was pleased to show me what it was, (this was Anno 1657.) and I did pray God to let me know his mind in that particular, and the Lord put it upon my heart to go and read, and the place of Scripture handed to me, was quite against their work (at that time) which they had upon their heart to do, than I sought the Lord again, and the second answer was; go in and ●ead; then I looked up to the Lord as I did before, and said, Lord, show me where I shall read, and that Scripture also was flat against their work; and just so I had a third answer also: And the next day as I was at my work my heart and meditations were above, and my secret desire still to God for the further teachings of his good Spirit, and these following lines (with much more) came in as a further answer from the Lord:  
As for the work of Babylon,  
It is a mighty work, and strong:  
But yet my power shall it complete,  
For my wisdom it mighty great:  
They must sit still, behold my power,  
Which worketh for them hour by hour.  
And now my dear Christian friends, into whose hands this my poor mite, shall come I desire you take notice of that great love and wondered grace of God, which he hath been pleased to manifest in giving in such sweet returus of prayer, let him alone have the praise, and be ye all encouraged and stirred up to pray continually, and be very watchful, that if at any time God do move you to do any thing, do it with all your might, according to the assistanco the Lord gives you; for I have found it a great grieving of the spirit to put it of with delays, through carnal reasonings of the flesh, which indeed would have hindreed me in offering of these few experiences to the view of the world: but when God was pleased to give me a heart to it, and I set upon it with a resolution in his strength to go through it, not with standing all opposition: Oh! then, was the Lord pleased to come in again, and fill my soul with peace and joy unspeakable, and full of glory; which was to my great refreshment I being then in a strange Land (Holland) separated from Country, kindred, and father's house; yea there, and then did our good God (according to what I had wont to have) give into my spirit heavenly Allelujas, both night and day, with many sweet Instructions from himself (when it was with us as it were a time of famine of the word) our Teathers being removed into corners, and thrown into prisons (in the Year 1662.) O! how was I then stirred up by the teachings of that good Spirit, often to praising, and often to very earnest prayer (as for myself, so for his poorasslicted persecuted people) and then also I found my heart much enlarged to love, and to do good, and lay out myself for sa ints of all persuasions, yea and all others also as I had opportunity. And upon this ground because my dear Redeemer, the Lord Jesus, hath set me a pattern to do good to all, and what talon soever we do receive, we must lay it out to his praise (if it be but one) and it shall be increased: this I have had experience of, be not backward to improve thy talon, because another may have more than thou, that springs from a root of pride, and negligence is the way to lose what thou hast, but look up to God for a blessing upon the right use of what thou hast received, and if he seeth it good that thou mayest better honour him with more he will give in thee in his own way and time, for than shall ye know if ye follow on to know the Lord. Hose. 6. 3. It is also promised, that they who be planted in the house of the Lord like a watered Gardin shall they grow and flourish, and bring forth fruit in their old age: Psa. 92: 12, 13. Further, o! let all the beloved of the Lord take a specialcare of every Gospel ordinance and commandment of our Lord, to hold forth what light you have received, for there is none of the ordinances of the Gospel to be slighted, for they hold out unto us those choice privileges that were purchased for us with the precious blood of Jesus Christ, I have found great peace, and enjoyed much of God's presence in waiting upon him in the way of his appointments, and I have found the Lord (not leaving but) teaching of me, when I out of conscience have forborn where they were not tobe enjoyed, according to the rule of the Gospel, and expose myself to any suffering to enjoy them in the purity of them, and indeed God doth take special notice of them who they be, and where they devil, Revel. 2: 13. that in sore persecuting and suffering times hold fast his truths, and do not deny his name, Mal. 3: 16, and hath promised that they who keep the word of his patience shall be kept in the hour of temptation.  
And when he hath humbled us, he will show us the pattern of his house, the goings out, and the come in thereof, and the fashions, Laws, and ordinances thereof, that we may do them. Ezek. 43: 11.  
And the time doth hasten that God will turn to the people a pure Language.  
And all shall know the Lord from the least to the greatest.  
And he will lead the blind in a way that they know not, he will make darkness become light, and crooked things straight, and bitter things sweet, and hard things easy; and this he will do, and not forsake us.  
Further let none be discouraged to do their duty, though never so weak, yet if thou be'st acted by the Spirit of God, weak means often times becomes effectual to accomplish great things, for by experience also I know when some persons have been praying together, that one being senceable of the state of the other, and mourning over their sin before the Lord, God have made use of those very mournings and breathe, to convince the other of their sinful state, with the danger of it, and thereby have been caused to turn from sin unto the Lord, whose eyes were never opened before.  
One Maid who by this means was convinced, and said nothing at present, but after prayer retiring herself to her Bible, with a purpose to see what word of comfort she could find there, and it pleased God to hand to her that place, Rom. 8: 13. For if ye live after the flesh ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortisy the deeds of the body, ye shall live: which word God did make very powerful and effectual to help forward his work upon her soul.  
All these speak forth the freeness of God's rich grace, therefore who ever readeth and under standeth what is in this free workings of God, good Spirit, let him alone have all the praise and glory; and the Lord inclined my heart every day more and more to praise him: for his unchangeable love in Jesus Christ, therefore let them that read this give God praise for this undeserved mercy; and let me have a share in your prayers, that I may be filled with a spirit of praise: for none have more cause than I to speak well of his great and holy name, and that I may honour God that little time that I have to live upon the earth, and that in all changes.  
For if God sees affliction to be good for me, I desire not to despise his chastizements; for I have found more strength in a great affliction then in a little one, and my soul hath been filled with joy out of measure.  
Therefore if we be brought to this, take joyfully the spoiling of our goods, knowing we have a better inheritance, and the giving up all to the will of God, who gave all to us, we shall have all given to us with advantage, oh! the fullness of him that filleth all in all, but I am nothing, and can do nothing, no longer than he doth assist, therefore praise him for ever more.  
And since I was taken of from my encumbrances in the world, and had more time to spend in the ways and work of God: waiting on him for more of himself, the Lord (according to his promise) hath revealed himself more abundantly, and I have found that a cheerful watchful diligent spirit in ones general and particular calling is a great help to prevent mispending time, for of idleness comes no good, therefore it hath been my practice, that if I can do no good, nor receive good, not to stay in that place long.  
Oh! let us be wary how we spend our precious time, for it hat a lock before, but none behind: I am of a fearful timorous spirit naturally, but I find it a great help to dash Babylon's brats in the first rice.  
I was about 14 years in the pangs of the new birth before I received the witness of the spirit, in which time I was exceeding troubled with my unbelieving heart through entertaining false fears: and indeed some thing of Jesus Christ was in me all that while: Although sometimes I could not with comfort be hold him through that thick cloud of my many Iniquities and I never found Satan more foiled, and my own corruptions more subdued, then when I by faith could look up unto God's unchangeable love in Jesus Christ, though I be a poor changeable creature, and verily I have found great gain in true Godliness.  
And now friends, give me leave to tell you these are mine experiences, and I fear it would be burden some to you, if I should be larger, which I could be: but give me leave to tell you the conclusion of all what I endeavour after, which is to press after the mark of the high calling, to deny myself, and look up to him that is perfect, and who presents all his perfect without spot or wrinkle.  
Not to him that worketh only, but to him that believeth, for he is holy, I desire to observe all the Commands of Christ as my rule of life, but I am not here by justified, but alone by a righteousness out of myself, there fore I say none but Christ, not by works of rightcousness that we do, but by faith are we saved, & that not of ourselves it is the gift of God, for he that kindleth a fire and composeth himself about with the sparks thereof, he shall lie down in sorrow, Isa. 50: 11. for a man may do much in outward performances, and yet not have a heart right with God: the foolish virgins had lamps of profession as well as the wise, but they had not oil; so the young man in the Gospel said to Christ, he had observed all the Commandments from his youth, what lacked he yet, but to deny himself, and to part with what he had for Christ, to take up the cross and to follow him, which he could not do, except Christ had given him a righteous heart for all his outward seeming righteousness?  
So the Scribes and Pharisees blamed C●rist for all his righteous actions, but could not see the Idol in th●r own hearts, for all their righteousness sprung not from a right root, nor was done by a right rule, nor to a right end.  
1. First, they had not grace in their hearts.  
2. Secondly, neither did they do what they did by the rule of the word of God, but by their own rule.  
3. What they did was for their own glory to get them praise from men, and not to the glory of God, Amos 4: 4, 5, 6. the which is an abomination to the Lord; this sacrifice God is weary of, it is as the offering of Swine's blood, and the cutting of a Dog's neck before the Lord, this made cain's sacrifice to be unacceptable in the sight of God; man's righteousness is as monstruous clothes, and filthy rags, that comes ●ot not from a heart sanctified where Christ dwells; all though it be garnished with never so much parts and gifts, the Lord looks upon the inward righteousness of the heart.  
Parts and gifts may cease, but the least measure of true grace shall hold out to the end.  
And what soever is parts and not grace, bear not these following Characters upon them, such have not the spirit, now the spirit is Truth, light, and love.  
1. First, the spirit of truth joins with the word of truth; if an Angel from heaven should bring any other doctrine, we are not to receive it, and them that believe and trust in the promise it leads into all truth, wait for the accomplishment of the promise of the spirit, to teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, which he hath promised shall remain with us always, John 14: 16.  
This is a good antidote against error, this teaching for the most part, abides and forms the soul into itself.  
The more of this truth and light comes in, the more a soul abhors itself, sees its own emptiness, and Christ's fullness.  
The more of this light comes into the soul, the more it thirsteth after light.  
The more knowledge it hath of God, the more it loves God, which conforms it into his image, and the more it delights in God, and loves them most that have most of God in them, Ps▪ 16. all my delight is in the Saints, and them that are excellent in the earth.  
The true spirit delights in all the commands of God, which shows true love to God, if you love me keep my Commandments; Jo. 14: 15, 16. and I will pray the Father and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever.  
It is a meek and a quiet spirit, it hates pride and lifting up; it sees enough in itself daily to humble it; It's full of love to all that God loves, though differing from them; by this shall all men know that you are my Disciples, if you have love one to another. Joh. 13: 35  
We know that we are passed from death to life; because we love the brethren. 1. Joh. 3: 14.  
Now the reason why we should cherish this grace of love to God, his people, and all men are these.  
First, because without love, which is charity, we are but as sounding brass or tinckeling Cymbals, all we do without this is nothing. 2 Cor. 13.  
Secondly, because Christ hath said, because Iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold in the last days. Mat. 24. 12.  
Thirdly, because it is one of Christ's last and great Commandments. John. 13: 34. 1. of Joh. 2. 7. 8.  
Fourthly, it renders us much like unto our Master Christ Jesus, Acts. 10: 38. who went about doing good to all; let us labour to follow his example, show pity to them, that God hath not yet showed so much pity to, as he hath done unto us; do good to them that hate you, and pray for them that despitefully use you. Mat. 5. 44: 45.  
These were God's teachings to me in the absence of faithful Teachers, when they were removed into corners; Which was a sore affliction to me, but I look at what mercy God afoards me in all afflictions, seeing I am unworthy of the least mercy, for it were a righteous thing with God to cut us of, and I marvailed at his patience and long suffering with me, and all others.  
I find by experience that reading the Scripture before prayer many times quickeneth the heart to Christ.  
And to meditate on God's mercies to our souls and bodies; and what great things Christ hath suffered to purchase these mercies for us: is a great help to stir up to that heavenly duty of praising and thankfulness: which is a main duty I would stir up myself and others unto, because our hearts are apt to be very backward unto it; and secondly, because it is a duty to be done at all times. In all things give thanks, yea in afflictions: For God hath promised, all shall work together for good to them that love God. Thirdly, to be filled with the Spirit of praises, makes the soul to live in heaven while it is on earth: verily, we had need be stirred up to this duty; for he that offers praise glorifies God. Psal. 50. last verse.  
And jesus Christ complains against the neglect of it, in that place where the ten Leppers were cleansed, and but one did return thanks: saith Christ, was there not ten cleused, but where are the nine? O! athankful frame doth compose the heart to great contentedness in every condition: it is of a divine nature: it stirs up the graces of God in the soul, as love and faith with hope in God and charity to others.  
Therefore pray for the Spirit of God, to put the heart into a praising frame for there's need of the exercise of much heavenly wisdom in the performance of this duty: for ●t is a spiritual work.  
Another experience I have had that it is our duty, and very profitable to watch against all evil thoughts: these ften grieve the holy Spirit of God; as of old he complained, how long shall vain thoughts lodge within you, and God looking upon man, beholding what was in his heart, and seeing his thoughts to be evil only, and continually, and it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at the heart; and God said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the facre of the earth, Gen. 5: 6. And then down comes the flood of God's displeasure upon the old world, not for sinful actions only, but thoughts also: Therefore keep your hearts with all diligence, Prov. 4: 23. For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh: And in the multitude of words is sin.  
I would desire all to take heed of idle words: and mind well what ye speak, when and how; avoid all needless speeches: and put far away all vain foolish jesting; an evil, which myself was some times very prone too, and as too many do harm by, I endeavoured to make myself and others merry: but alas, 't is sinful mirth, and it will bring sadness here, or else which is worse, end in sorrow hereafter: thus was I convinced of this eull being upon a joyrney, meeting one that was a stranger to me, thinking to make him and myself laugh: spoke jestingly to him; but he presently fella swearing and cursing, and railing; which when I heard, wounded me to the heart, that I by my folly should provoke the poor man so to sin against God, my mirth soon turned into mourning. And while I mourned before the Lord over this my great evil, which had produced such a sad effect, God was pleased to set this upon my heart. Cannot I make thee more merry with heavenly and spiritual joy, than thou canst make thyself with such foolish vain and sinful mirth. And the Lord hath since filled me with that sweet refreshing joy: that is a thousand times better to me then all sinful mirth.  
Further, in reference to words, I would commend unto you some Scripture rules: jam. 1: 26. compared with Math. 12: 27. from whence we may observe, that when any person doth utter words that be vain, earthly, or froward, it doth plainly manifest that there is an earthly, vain, and froward heart; whi●h is an abomination to the Lord, Prov. 11: 20. and in jam. 1: 19 The Apostle doth persuade Christians to be swift to hear, but slow to speak, and slow to wrath. And Jesus doth exhort his followers that their yea should be yea, and their nay nay; saying, that what soever is more is evil: And jams 1: 21. bids us lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness: that is to say, what ever is more than needful in words, apparel, and diet; yea, and in all things, and what ever profession any person may make, if they bridle not their tongue, they deceive themselves and their Religion is vain; hath God through his free grace, passed his distinguishing love upon a little Remnant: doubtless 't is their duty then to distinguish themselves from others, in their words habit, and in their whole conversation so to walk as becometh the Gospel: Phil. 1: 27. Surely if persons were awakened by the voice of God, that speaks loud in the present afflictions, they would so do▪ 't now is not a time for any of God's Children to continue their superfluities, when many do want necessaries: Let me entreat such to read, and mind what is written in Rom. 12: 1, 2. And 1 Pet. 2: 11. If we could but be moderate in the use of all things: what good Stewards should we be of the manifold blessings of God; which he hath betrusted us with, and we must give an account of in the day of the Lord.  
Prosperity hath made many to glory in the flesh; and exalt themselves, in, which vain glory some still do continue: although the great Eternal God hath and doth testify from heaven against it, but if it be not repent of, and departed from, God will turn it into shame, Hosea 4: 7. As they were increased, so they sinned against me, therefore will I change their glory into shame: it's now a trying time, and all persons by their conversations will discover what they are, and were ever the deeds and works of the flesh appear, and are allowed, 't is evident there is not the Spirit of God in them: And they who have not the Spirit of Christ are none of his: And 't is not a talking of, but walking in the Spirit, will help against the fulfilling the lusts of the flesh, and manifest who are the true Children of God. Oh! that persons were wise, to consider their latter end, then surely they would not neglect the knowledge of those things that belong to their peace: but choose that better part, that shall never be taken from them. Which would make them happy for ever.  
Oh! that all would be persuaded to commune with their own hearts, and consider their own ways: And to mind the dreadful Judgements of God, and his vials of wrath that shall be poured out against sin and sinners, surely they would see it is high time to depart from pride, vain glory, covetousness, oppression, hypocrisy, malice, and all sin: For verily, God is visiting for these things, and for persons still to continue therein, may it not be feared and justly expected, that God should increase his Judgements, and punish seven times more: Leit. 26: 21, 24. They who depart not from sin God will depart from them: and how sad that is let souls consider: read Hosea 9: 11, 12, 14.  
Therefore who ever would not be eternally separated from God, let them in time separate from all sin: And let poor souls take special heed they live not in any known evil, nor neglect any known duty, but put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh to fulfil the lusts thereof; for if ye live after the flesh ye shall die: But if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live, Rom. 8: 13. let me propound but this on question, and I wish all young and old, Rich and poor to mind it, whether or no it is not better to separate from sin, than that sin should separate thee from God for ever.  
Oh! what need is there, that all who love God and their own souls, should hate, abhor, and depart from all sin, because 't is that which God doth so hate, as he will punish it where ever he finds it. Yea, if a David, a Man after Gods own heart do commit any sin, he must be reproved for it; and God will so frown as it may cost many sigths, prayers, and tears, before God restore unto him the joy of his salvation, and though secretly committed, yet God will punish openly that others may hear and fear. 2 Sam. 12: 12.  
Oh! how have I found by sad experience, that pride is a breeding sin, and spiritual pride is indeed the very worst, when persons come to have a little knowledge of the things of God, and have set a few steeps in his ways: Many be too prone, then to be puffed up with self conceit, and to judge all others to be in errors, who are not just of their persuasion; and so to judge censure, and condemn them for Heretics: and to persecute them at least with the tongue, but though sometimes Paul did thus; he acknowledgeth it was from a Pharisaical spirit, which we had all need to take heed of: and judge not; and ye shall not be judged. Alas! our heavenly Father have many children, but there be babes and some strong men: they are not all of an age, nor cannot all see alike, not act alike; let all the beloved of God (cease smi●ing and) manifest true love one another. And what ever their persuasion be all who are humble and holy, and do faithfully walk up to the light they have received, let them be beloved for the Father's sake. Oh! that we may be filled with that grace of true Charity; for that is a special antidote against all pride, malice and any evil thoughts, and evil speakings, and prejudice, and offences one against another. 1 Cor. 13: 1, 4. etc. There we may read at large of the excellency of true charity. Oh! the more any one is filled with the good Spi it of God, the more shall they be enabled against all the works and fruits of the flesh; therefore I would counsel persons when they awake, wait for the teachings of the Spirit, and for the accomplishment of that promise made to the last days. And what the Spirit teacheth do ye commit to the Spirits keeping: and they, whith whom it is the day of God's power are made willing both to hear the Spirits voice, and obey it.  
And I would have all to endeavour diligently for the enjoyment of the Spirit, and hearken every one that hath an ear: what it speaks, for the teachings thereof are very glorious; it makes a soul live as it were in heaven while on earth. Surely when daniel's faith was made strong by the enjoyment of this blessed Spirit of God, so as nothing could hinder him from the worship of God. Oh! what sweet communion did he enjoy with God, and although thrown into the lion's den, yet there wonderfully and comfortably preserved, I have found this, that we are too ready to despise or slight the Spirit of God, when it appears in something beyond us, or out of our reach, but let us take heed of this evil also.  
This good Spirit of God is that which will enable us to choose to suffer rather than to sin, and in all our suffering it will wonderfully assist and uphold us, and carry through the forest fiery trials, and if we be thrown into sufferings for Christ sake, be sure he will make one with us to uphold us in the furnis; and we need not study how we shall be delivered from our enemies, for God will deal with them as he did with Daniel, and the three Children; for he will recompense the wickedness of the wicked upon their own heads; therefore fear not, but stand still and wait, and you shall see the salvation of God. And I do not think that these things be given in to me from the Lord for my own sake only, but for your benefit, to whom it may come; and I hope I am so far from having high thoughts of myself, that the more I see of God, and enjoy from God, so much the more cause I have to be humble; and if others find theirhearts as bad as I have found mine, they will see cause enough to use all means with them; and when allis done; it must be faith in Jesus Christ must remove this mountain; faith will carry us out of ourselves unto Christ, and cause us to rest on him to do all our works for us, and in us, do ye cherish a holy fear against sin, and an holy bouldness to come to God, and a holy confidence in him for what we come for, and let not the fear of man hinder from any duty God calls thee unto; to conclude, I only commend unto you that word in Micha 6: 8. So shall I leave this to the blessing of the Lord, and the consideration of the wise.    

COURTEOUS READER,  
IF these my Experiences suit not with thy condition, yet let it have a patient view of thee, and pass by what is of the flesh, Own what is of the spirit, and judge not, what thou shalt meet with of the truth: because thou art not yet acquainted in that way, for the secrets of God are sometime with poor weak ones that sears him, and what is come to pass I hope you will believe; If it was not out of obedience to God, it should not have comed to your view, neither would I have put my name to it, if I could have avoided it, for fear of the rash judgement of some, Lest it should be thought, I did it out of pride, or to own a prophetical spirit, which I know not, But I own a Prophetical voice of Christ, which if he pleases to speak, he can make me to hear, yea to believe, this I have Experience of: And if these Crumbs which I have gathered from my bountiful Lords table, you cann●t find it savoury to you, leave it to the hungry broken hearted Christians, to wh●● ever crumbe of mercy is sweet, when it comes out of love from our blessed Saviour. And let not this be despised, because it is the Spirits working in the weakest vessel; for Christ did not reject the woman though weak, ignorant, and sinful; and where he hath forgiven much, he maketh them love much, and follow him to the las●, especially if they keep the word of his patience, holding fast to every truth of God, though it be in an evil time when truth is despised.  
Marry followed Christ to the last, and the Lord did so assist her with his Spirit, who showed her strong affections to him, gonig early in the mornning to the sepulchre, and Christ put this honour upon her, that she must bring the first glad tidings of the Gospel of the resurrection unto the Disciples.  
And his appearance to her in that season, when she knew not where to seek him.  
Christ herein showed his great Love to sinners; for she being a poor ignor an't woman, though full of affection, did as many of us do now a days, seek the living among the dead: but where Christ keeps up the affections of a soul to himself, he manifests more of the knowledge of himself; and Christ doth testify in john. 4. Th●● it was his meat and drink to do his father's will, and that was to teach the poor t●● knowledge of his will. And when he made known himself to that poor woman, 〈◊〉 affections where so enlarged that she goes and calls others ver. 34. thus Christ finished the work of his father, to take care of the weakest of his stock, that as the woman was first in the transgression, she might have first knowledge of the resurrection▪ the gift of the well of water, which springs up unto everlasting life: and this gift God is pleased to give it unto women as well as unto men.  
And he doth require that they should honour him as well as men, for the free grace of God in Christ as wel● to the one as the other, and 't is his free grace that I am what I am; and if this small mite be not accepted (by all,) I shall take it as an high honour to suffer for well-doing; for ●hough in myself I am low, and find the flesh would hinder, and my memory bad, yet I can through grace say, the spirit hath been my remembrance, and in the simplicity of my heart I have done this, and out of obedience to my good God, which makes the Son of righteousness to shine on the weak and on the strong. And truly I have nothing to glory in, for I never did see myself so weak as now, and since I had communion night and day with God, I never was so much in self-loathing and abhorring as now; therefore praise the Lord with me, for I am a poor sinful creature, and I desire that all that fear the Lord, to whom this shall come, would pray earnestly to God for me, that I may stand fast in this evil day, and may walk humbly, blamelessly, and very harmlessly towards all: so that I may honour him which hath honoured me, with his Son, to whom be glory and praise for ever.  
Now, to testify to all that I have received (from the Lord) that gift of singing as well as the gift of prayer, and any other, therefore I shall present to your view some of those Hymns and spiritual Songs: with an account how and when they were given in; and so shall leave it to the spiritual to judge.  

As I was waiting on the Lord, in that Ordinance of the Lords Supper, this following short Hymn was immediately given in.  

O Now my soul go forth with praise,  
For God excepteth thee always;  
Thy life is bound up now in me,  
My precious death hath set thee free.   

This Testimony I thee give,  
At this bread was broken, so was I,  
That thou in me mightest never die:  
My blood doth justify the same,  
That thou mayest praise my holy Name.   

My Covenant I have made with thee,  
So that thou art now whole set free:  
Sin nor Sa●han cannot thee charge,  
Because my love hath thee enlarged,  
So sure as I am plas 't above,  
So sure art thou now of my love.   
Your waiting shall be upon me, till I your souls hath filled; and in the way of righteousness you shall be made to yield.   

Another time I having been waiting on the Lord in breaking bread: And soon after was given in this following.  

THE Spring is come the dead is g●ne,  
Sweet streams of love doth flow:  
There is a Rock, that you must knock,  
●rom whence these stream do go.   

The Banquet's s●t, the King is c●me,  
To entertain his Guest:  
All that are weary of their sins,  
He waits to g●ve them rest.   

Then come, and take your fill of love,  
Here's joy enough for all,  
To see our King so richly clad,  
And g●ve so loud a call.   

Here's Wine without money or price:  
Here's milk to nourish babes:  
You may come to this banquet now,  
And f●ede of it most large.   

Then comfort you yourselves in him;  
'tis sweet to see his love,  
That they, that are redeemed by him,  
May live so free above.    

And while the afflicting hand of God was upon me in some measure, this following was given in one evening, as a song of instruction.  

AFflictions are not from the dust,  
Nor are they in vain sent:  
But they shall work the work of him,  
That is most nobly Bent.   

Then let thine eyes look upon him,  
Which worketh in the dark;  
And let thine heart embrace his love,  
Lest thou from him shouldst start.   

Although thou canst not see his work,  
Yet wait on him with joy;  
For none shall hinder now his work,  
Nor none shall him Annoy.   

Thou must be willing to take up  
The cross, to follow him,  
And wait till he will make his cup,  
To flow up to the brim.   

Seeing thou art now called unto  
The purpose of his will,  
Let not afflictions trouble thee,  
Believe, and stand thou still.   

If that the Lord did not thee love,  
He would not this pains take,  
To let thee see his grace in thee,  
And also thee awake.   

It s●owers away the dr●s●● from thee,  
And takes away thy tin:  
It makes thy soul sit for to hear  
The voice of thy sweet King.   

It makes the soul further to know  
The Sonship of his grace;  
And weanes the soul from things below,  
That it m●y seek his face.   

It puts the wise to see his work,  
And puts him in the way,  
That he may forthwith seek the Lord,  
Without further delay.   

It mak●s him now resolve upon  
Obedience to his grace;  
And watchful in the way he goes,  
That he may seek his face.   

It makes him look for strength from God,  
To heal his sliding back:  
It makes him look up to the Rock,  
For that which he dot lack,    

This was November the 20. in the Year 1656.  

ZION is God's precious plant,  
The Lord will water it every day:  
O! Zion is God's holy one,  
It shall not whet her nor decay.   

Zion is that fenced well,  
A Tower that none shall throw douin:  
O! Zion is that glorious hold,  
That God will keep both safe and sound.   

Zion is that pleasant Plant,  
That God will hedge about each hour;  
O! Zion is God's heritage,  
And he will keep it by his power.   

Therefore let not thy heart now faint,  
For Zions' sake hold not thy peace;  
For our God will hear Zions' Plaint;  
Therefore give thy God now no rest,  
Till thou with Zion he hath blest.   

Let Zion know her time draws near,  
She may look up now without fear:  
Let Zion know her God doth live,  
That hath her portion for to give.   

Let Zions' Children now rejoice,  
And let him praises sing:  
O! let them lift up pleasant voice,  
In honour to their King.   

Let Zion know her God is true,  
That will her mercies now renew,  
She shall receive great things from him,  
Who is her glory, and her King.   

Although afflictions should hold on,  
And troubles should arise;  
Yet God will own his precious one,  
Their prayers he'll not despise.   

Our King shall reign in righteousness,  
His glory shall shine forth;  
He will come forth in judgement then, 
† For the confirmation hereof do ye mind these two Scriptures Esai. 45: 13. and Psalm 89: 19   
For his poor saints comfort.   

Our King shall reign in glory then,  
He shall himself come up,  
His enemies then shall fall with speed  
And be made but a puf.   

Then let my people quiet sit,  
And wait on him with joy;  
There is a time draws near at hand,  
Nothing shall them Annoy.    


THE poor then of the flock shall find a rest;  
And I their God, and portion, will them bless:  
And they shall to me for a refuge fly,  
And I will be their help continually.   

Then shall their souls alone in me rejoice,  
That I have made of them my only choice;  
I will fill them in that day with my power,  
So they shall wait on me then every hour.   

Their soul shall be as wattered plants with dew,  
And I my mercy will to them renew;  
Their heats shall be engaged with my love,  
For I will move in them from power above.   

This is the portion that I now will give,  
Unto all those that strifes humbly to live;  
Therefore rejoice in God your only guide  
Which in this day of trouble will you hide.   
END.   


Awake, awake, put on my strength,  
And mine own comelyness,  
Look upon me for I have  
Wrought thy deliverance.   

Thou art black, but comely in  
Mine eyes, that doth behold  
Thee swearing mine own righteousness,  
Which glory can not becould.   

I waited long on thee, to see,  
When thou wouldst me embrace,  
And when thou wouldst look up to me,  
To see my glorious face.   

And now, what sayest thou unto me?  
Have I not done thee good?  
And have not spared to set thee free,  
〈◊〉 own Sons precious blood.   

Therefore let all thy life be now  
A sacrifice of praise,  
And to my holiness give up  
Thyself in all my ways.   

Let not the World so sad thy heart,  
Nor cast thee down follow,  
For ●f thou wait upon my grace,  
My secrets thou shalt know.   

Be watchful, and keep do close to me●  
Thy Garments: do not stain;  
And that will be to thy poor soul,  
A certain heavenly gain.   

Take heed of glorying in my love  
But walk humbly and low,  
●or it is only my fullness,  
That makes thee thus to flow.   

There is by paths to wander in,  
That Satan would advance,  
But I will keep thee by my power,  
And be thy deliverance.   

Be watchful and keep close to me,  
My Garments do not soil,  
For they are thine to cover thee;  
Be watchful than a while.    


OH! where shall I find now  
A people quickened still,  
That seek all times to live on God,  
And eck to do his will.   

A people that deny themselves,  
And eck the cross up take,  
That doth delight in God alone,  
And eck the World for sake.   

A people that abhor themselves,  
And over their sins weep,  
A people mourning o'er the Land,  
And doth him daily seek.   

A people that believes in God,  
By faith draws virtue still;  
Lay hold on promise which is true  
Contented with his will.   

A people that the word esteem,  
Keeping close there daily,  
And for a rule the same doth take,  
When others from it fly.   

Their hearts are fastened on the Lord,  
They for are fuge fly,  
That God would now help by his power,  
In their extremity.   

Their cries are now unto the Lord,  
Thy seek in him to hide,  
To take of now his heavy hand,  
And not let wrath abide   

With such a people would I spend,  
My life and days now here:  
Oh! think upon thy servant Lord,  
And to me now draw near.   
I assure you COURTEOUS READER these are not studed things, but are given in immediately.   
FIN.