A Faithful NARRATIVE OF THE LIFE and DEATH OF That Holy and Laborious PREACHER Mr. JOHN MACHIN, Late of Astbury in the County of Chester.  
With a Praefatory Epistle there unto; Written by that Excellent Person Sir Charles Wolseley Baronet.  
Published for the furtherance of Real Piety in Ministers and others.  
LONDON, Prinred for Nevil Simmons at the three Crowns at Holbourn Conduit. 1671.   

A PREFACE TO THE READER.  
PRactical Sanctity is the great End of Religion while we live here; he that attains farthest therein, will be found wisest to himself, and most beneficial to others: 'Tis much in Divinity, as 'tis in Philosophy, where the Practice augments the Science above all bare Theories, and renders it most useful and intelligible to Mankind. When men confine Religion to Speculation, they turn Divinity into Metaphysics, where they dispute and divide without End: to reduce it to practice, is to pursue its proper tendency, and to make it (as indeed it is) the great Principle of Union and Peace. This ensuing Discourse is not a little subservient to that Highest End of Religion; being in its own Nature, an earnest persuasive to a serious Practice of Holiness, by setting before us the Example of one singularly Eminent therein. The Lives of Holy Men teach us what ought to be done, and at once convince us that it may be done; they supersede all those lazy excuses, men are too apt to make about the practicability of what God requires, and give us the most taking prospect of the Ease and Excellency of all Christian Duties in the Beauty of a Heavenly Conversation; 'Tis to Record a great instruction to the World, to Write the Life of a good man, and he's a Public Benefactor to Religion that Rescues such a Treasure from the common Consumption of Time, and Stores it up for Posterity. 'Twere pity, that what will be ever rewarded in Heaven, should be soon forgot upon Earth; or that the best Subject of Story should silently Expire in Oblivion We own no small Additions both to Learning and Religion to such, who have Transcribed the Lives of Excellent Men, and thereby made them the Companions of every Age. No Humane Motivelike Example, nor is there any Attractive to worthy Actions, so great as such Actions themselves. 'Twas the Story of Alexander's Life, that first inflamed that Noble Genius of Caesar; and 'twas the Example of some Primitive Martyrs, that first made the famous Justin Martyr a Christian: St. Paul found how prevailing Example was, and therefore Preached the Gospel from his own; those things, says he to the Philippians, which you have heard and seen in me, do. God himself eminently commends to us this way of improving the World, by proposing the best Patterns, since so considerable a part of the Bible, is a Sacred Register of Holy men's Lives, and one whole Book, that of the Acts of the Apostles, seems chief designed, to convey to us the History of St. Paul's Life after his Conversion.  
This following Collection may modestly expect a fair Reception from all hands: he must be a Reader very unkind to Religion and himself, that dislikes the Revival of such a Holy Man's Life; in which there is no real Offence given, either to the Jew, or to the Gentile, or to the Church of God. Such a man as lived and died free from all corrupt and unsound Opinions; one who in the course of his Ministry, never sophisticated the Gospel with any fanciful Speculations; one wholly untainted with the least Faction or contempt of Authority; one that lived not in the impalement of any Party. In short, a man of a Catholic Spirit, who made Religion his Business, and Traveled with the Salvation of Mankind. A worthy Pattern both as a Minister and a Christian; in either capacity, the best Advice I can give the Reader, is in the Words of our Saviour upon another occasion, Go and do thou likewise.  
Ch. Wolseley.   

The Life and Death of that Holy Man of God, and Laborious Preacher, Mr. John Machin late of Astbury.  
MR. John Machin, was Son to John Machin of Seabridge near Newcastle in the County of Stafford. His Mother Katherine was of the Vernons of Audley in the same County. His Father was a Yeoman of good Estate, an ancient Freeholder; that Estate of Seabridge having continued in the Name of the Machines' from the 23 Hen. 8. (as this precious Servant of God hath himself computed out of his ancient Deeds) and he finds himself the seventh Generation of the Name that have Inherited that estate. And what a pious improvement he makes of that Observation, we shall mention in its due place.  
He was born at Seabridge, October 2. 1624. and baptised the same day at Newcastle.  
He was the only Son of his said Parents, and therefore carefully brought up by them in his Youth at the best Schools that were near, especially with honest Mr. Orme at Newcastle, and that famous Mr. John Ball at Whitmore, who brought up several Youths in School-learning, together with his own Sons.  
He was sometimes intended for the Inns of Court, but his Parent's tenderness of him, and unwillingness to part from him, is supposed to be the greatest hindrance of that design. Whereupon being taken from School he was employed in husbandry for some years, and other youthful recreations, as some well remember, and often did recount with admiration, when they saw him afterwards so highly engaged in the exercise of the Law of God, day and night.  
In particular he was addicted to cock-fights, which made him say thus (in some Memorials that he left off himself and family for the use of his son) Twenty years did I live the Devil's bondslave, which is time lost, and not Living in a good sense, Ephes. 2.1, 2, 3. And hath often said to some of his dear friends when they have been walking with him in some of the ways at Seabridge, O with what an heartful of vanity have I in days past gone this way? And at other times, This way have I followed sin where now I follow Christ; I am now ungoing, and un-ravelling my sinful journeys: but I that have tried both, find these the better ways.  
He was very prone to hearken to any motion of marriage made unto him, though not then closing with any; one at Vttoxeter he was nearest to a conclusion with, who died in the mean time, which was some occasion of his going to the University.  
Upon the occasion of the nameing of his first child Samuel, he saith thus, I was the rather inclined to give him that name, because it should have been mine own by right, as my Father hath told me, especially since I came from Cambridge: for said he, I begged thee of God in thy Mother's straits, and promised thee to the Lord, as Hannah did her Son Samuel; but having quite forgotten my promise, or not thinking at all of the way wherein God intended thee for himself, I intended thee for a Husbandman, until God fetched thee from me into the way of the Ministry, which was after some improbabilities, and besides the thoughts of all Friends. God had another plough for thee to follow, and another match to make, than that which I and my Friends had thoughts of.  
His Father was induced by the advice of a Friend to let him go to Cambridge for a quarter of an year, scarce intending him to be admitted, but to abide there for some short time for further breeding. And he gladly accepted the Motion, and went thither in December, 1645. and finding some kindred and acquaintance there, he was admitted in Jesus College.  
The first year it pleased God to make a gracious change in him, of which, he saith himself, The time of my conversion was in the twenty first year of my age (as I remember) the place was Jesus College in Cambridge. The Texts that most overturned me were Ephes. 6.12, 13, 14. and 1 Cor. 16.22. the one by Dr. Hill, the other by a Stranger. He often showed some of his acquaintance the seat in which he was first wrought upon, and told them how dearly he loved the sight of it, and that ever after he chose to sit in that seat rather than in any other, if it were possible to crowd into it. One evidence among many others of the eminent success which God gave to the faithful plain preaching of that Holy man D. Hill, who went over that whole Epistle to the Ephesians in a Lecture every Lordsday in the morning at six of the clock, which he continued for several years. Learned D. Arrowsmith also about the same time preached over a succinct body of Divinity in Aphorisms in St. john's College in the evening of the Lordsday (part whereof is since published) of which he hath often said, that he found his heart so moulded to the truths delivered upon the hearing thereof, that it was greatly to his spiritual joy and satisfaction.  
No sooner did he find this change in his own heart, but his Friends at Seabridge found it in his letters, which spoke the new frame of his soul, and were most instant pathetical persuasions to his Father and Mother and Sisters, to look after their souls, and to mind the things of Eternity, which he seconded afterward with his holy and exemplary society with them, so that he was an instrument to convert all his three Sisters early unto God, and to prevail very hopefully with his Parents in like manner, as appeared afterwards.  
He so followed his studies in the University, that being of ripe years, very good natural parts, and religiously making conscience of his time, he made good progress therein, and was not inferior to any in the College of his year, in University-learning when he left it. And though he made no Show of learning (as some did) in his preaching, yet he made good Use of it, and well understood the necessity of it for his work.  
About the time of his great Grandfather's death which was in March 1647. he was sick of a dangerous spotted-feaver at Cambridge and that unto death, as himself and most about him concluded, which he thus mentions; That it was in Jesus-Colledge in a middle chamber next to the Chapel on the right hand; but (saith he) God having some work for me to do had mercy on me, Phil. 2.27. saved me, and brought me back again to say, Psal. 56.13. for thou hast delivered my soul from death; wilt thou not deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the land of the living? And Psal. 118.17, 18. I shall not die but live: and declare the works of the Lord. The Lord hath chastened me sore, but he hath not given me over unto death. In this sickness the Lord dealt most powerfully with his soul, planting therein great and firm resolutions of serving his God eminently upon Recovery, which by his grace he afterward faithfully performed. And hereupon he began a Meeting of Scholars for religious ends, which continued in the College for several years after his departure, to the restraining (at least) of some, and the great spiritual advantage of many young Scholars there; which he managed with such caution, as they might not easily become nurseries of faction, or false doctrine, whatever the ignorance, or malice of senseless frothy persons did slanderously vent to the contrary. Take a further account of him, and of his usefulness in the College in these few clauses of several letters to him from some Worthy Members of that Society—  
Dear Friend, I received your loving Letter, which breathed nothing but piety and good affection. The next Companion to him who is both Fundator, Socius, & Praeses of the College of Graces, and comforts of Believers, is he whom God hath warmed with the same principles to be instrumental for the inlivening them in others— I bless God, the society you were the founder of in the College, do grow numero et mensura— And you have here my real thanks, in that you have been instrumental in setting religious meetings on foot, wherein you reap much of the answer of your prayers, in that they carry it so prudently yet, as I hear of nothing but what malice and guilt tax them withal— In all my serious thoughts I see you represented to me, either as a pattern of strict walking, or an upbraiding of my little serviceableness, but always a blessing and a comfort in this, that I have known you, and the manner of your life, and that I reap the benefit of your prayers and best affections, which is a treasure I always desire to prise above all the Jewels in the world, etc. And from another eminent Person: My Dear and Precious Friend, I received yours— your lines sweetly refresh me. O that I could hear oftener from you. It glads my soul to see your constancy. O that your example might be a motive and incentive to me, to be more steady settled and fixed upon God, in the way of God, etc. These are but a taste of many letters from Cambridge, wherein several do bless the Lord that ever they saw his face.  
But his Activity in God's service was not a little disturbed by the malice of Satan, who frequently after his recovery from sickness, annoyed and tormented him dreadfully in his Dreams (which greatly confirmed him in his christian zeal) so that he hath often immediately upon waking run in his waistcoat into his Study, and betaken himself to his earnest prayers against that mischievous Fiend.  
He Commenced Bachelor in Arts, Anno 1649. and after his Commencement came into the Country; and spent part of the year among his Friends, and in visiting some neighbouring Congregations, that were destitute, with his pains.  
He was Ordained Minister at Whitchurch, Feb. 20. 1649. In which service he engaged before hand all the prayers he was able to muster up, not only of friends near at hand, but some scores of miles distant for a blessing upon that Ordinance; and when we consider how pathetically he engaged them, (thus in one Epistle, Upon the 20th of February, Pray and prevail for us,) what a conjunction of prayers there was in several places on that day, and the rich crop and harvest reaped afterwards; we think it worthy the reflection of those Ministers, who never won a soul to Christ, from what principle, in what manner, and for what ends, they first engaged in this sacred Function.  
Though he was not at present dispoesd to settle at any place, yet he was loath to go about his work without Ordination; and that which induced him to continue unfixed for a space, was his large desire after souls, not only of his friends and kindred, but of all his neighbours, as far as he could see, or know, or go; he even traveled in birth for such as had not seen his face, that Christ might be form in them. And the largeness of his heart herein, was frequently expressed in his most earnest prayers unto God, for the enlarging of his Kingdom, in Families, Towns, and Counties; which he would name with the greatest affection both in his prayers and letters, crying out, O that whole Staffordshire and Cheshire might be saved!  
And by this time he had acquaintance and intimacy with all that were eminent for Piety in all the parts adjacent, and greatly did he stir up the grace of God in them. And he was extraordinarily qualified and prepared by the Lord for this work, in an especial juncture of time, the heat of controversies managed by Sword Pen and Pulpit, having sadly prevailed to the justling out the lively sense of the main things wherein all were agreed. And divers Ministers were so taken off these great matters by other work which the Enemy had found them, (the tares he had sown in the fiield) that to preach of Death and Judgement, of Christ & Conversion, were almost new things to many people. And this good man was singularly fitted to retrieve the Great work back again into the hearts and hands of his Brethren; having never intermeddled with the controversies either in Church or State, but setting out with all his might upon the main things, and driving on the work of conversion wherever he came.  
And his success was great: In his Father's house at Seabridge the Lord made him eminently instrumental for his three Sisters conversion: His Parents greatly favoured the ways of God, much furthered him in his work, and were cheerful entertainers of well-disposed people upon solemn occasions. And there was such an habituated course of gracious converse set up in the family, by his staying there the first year, that an eminent Minister at his first coming thither, and beholding their order, zeal, and forwardness in Christ, could not forbear, insisting the next day on those words of Moses, Numb. 11.29. Enviest thou for my sake? being the result of that dealing he was forced to, with his own heart upon that occasion. And this Ointment on Aaron's head ran down to the skirts of his Clothing, for he was a precious savour to the very poor servants of the house, with whom he was unweariedly importunate to be holy, and prevailed much. A notable pledge of the future success of his Ministry upon others.  
In reference hereunto, he takes occasion himself to say thus of his Father; My Father John Machin did more for our family than his progenitors, building both House and Barns from the ground, etc. But most of all he may be remembered, for bringing up me his Son to, and at the University, who was (through Grace) instrumental to bring the Gospel in its power into our Family, which was more glory to the same, than if the materials of the house had been all turned into pure Gold, whereof let those Scriptures (upon the Chimney-stone in the Parlour) be witness, 
Gen. 28.15— 22. 2 Chron. 6.7— 42. 2 Sam. 7.18— 25. 1 Chron. 29.10— 20. Psal. 116.1.12— 19 Psal. 118.17. Gen. 32.10. Jer. 30.21. Ezek. 48.35. 1 Sam. 7.12 Exod. 17.14, 15, & 20.24. 1 Cor. 15.34. 1 Chron. 28.9.  when it may be said, blessed be he, and they, who brought His Name hither to record it. To God aolne be the whole Glory.  
His usual way after preaching was to repeat, and to assemble together as many as he could to the place where he lodged, and there to spend as much time as he was able, in pressing things further upon them, and in holy and pertinent discourse, with unspeakable heat and vigour; which made one of his Kindred say, that he liked his Cousin Machin well, but that he made his house a Chapel when he came to him.  
And during this time he was unfixed, as he expresseth himself in a Letter to a Friend of his in Cambridge; I am yet placeless, Charity's servant, desired to many places, but in part resolved to fix at Ashburne, for every other Sabbath, reserving the other for the service of Necessity and Charity which may be found in these parts.  
And accordingly he did, as himself records. At the beginning of An. 1650. I was called co Ashburne in Derbyshire, where God was with me two years, and though my labours were not in that Town so successful as I desired, yet I had God's presence much comforting my soul, and the souls of many Christian friends thereabout.  
About this time he was with a Quaker on his deathbed, presently after the first springing of that Sect in Staffordshire, and the more earnestly he prayed with the sick person, the more raging he was; which was an argument to him, as also to several of the company then present, that Quakerism was a degree of Possession.  
Whist he was at Ashburne, he was a laborious preacher, and very useful, and his spare days he laid out to the utmost advantage of the Gospel, by forecasting heavenly work in the Morelands' and dark corners of Staffordshire, where the power of the Gospel had scarce ever come before: so that he might truly say, that he gloried not in another man's line, he sowed where few had effectually sowed before, nor then, save by his procurement. There was no man  in the parts he lived in, that did so naturally care for the state of souls, for indeed he sought not his own, but the things of Jesus Christ. He would prevail with his Brethren, that were intimate with him, and knew the sincerity of his heart, and design herein, to meet him in those parts, and to preach at several places near together, sometimes three or four days together. And the people were ordinarily so far made willing, that they would flock (to his great joy) from place to place after the means of Grace; and he had the comfortable testimony of Gods approving his wrok, in the good that many souls received thereby.  
Take a taste of his heavenly spirit in a Letter of his scent to a Ministers wife, that thought her husband long from her, then with him in the Lords Work— July 9 1652.  
Dear Friend, I do hearty bless our God for what he hath done for you, and especially for your soul; I pray believe, you heard these following words as coming out of the mouth that first spoke them, Psal. 27.14. And say in faith, as you may in his own language, Psal. 138.8. It is to me a great sign of what the Lord hath done for you, that you are so willing to part with your (I know) dear Husband for the Lords sake, and his works sake, but He is, and It is worthy. Think still it is to the Lord, and should a Husband be between a gracious heart and Christ our Lord? God forbidden we should think so, who have had already in hand for every step word and thought for him, from him more weight and worth, than a wedge of Ophirs Gold, besides those thousands of years in glory that are yet in reversion— and wherein I cannot thank you or him, my Lord shall, my Lord shall, my Lord shall; else his word fails and I'll complain, Heb. 6.18. 2 Chron. 25.9.  
After two years spent at Ashburne he says, he saw nothing to contradict his resolutions to part from them, and that the Lord cut out work for him elsewherere, judging his reasons sufficient for removal, he proceeds— I was called thence to Atherston in Warwickshhire, where I spent one year in a Lecturers place, and the Lord did abundantly crown my poor pains on a sudden with conversion-work, which made me say, Cant. 6.12. Or ever I was ware, my soul made me like the Chariots of Amminadib. But I saw not the Lords mind and will to continue me there, in which I saw the Lords hand, and for the time was content, for I wanted nothing, having a Seabridge-home for supply: And I had my hearts desire in opportunities to extend my labours to Staffordshire, and otherwise some lords-days, and many weekdays, no one gainsaying; which I saw was for the destruction of the Devils work, and an aking-tooth he carried against me, but two things stayed my thoughts in my travels from place to place, and house to house: My Saviour's leading the way, Acts 10.38. And this; The more the Devil hates me, the more my God loves me.  
This year was his time to have Commenced Mr. in Arts, which he inclined to do, chief to give testimony of his respect to Learning, and the Schools thereof, in a time when too many were bend against them; but his Estate being enough to make him a Compounder, whereby some extraordinary charges would be expected from him more than he could well spare, he sat down with this consideration, that he thought he might lay out that money more to the Honour of the Gospel, than to part with it for the Honour of a Degree, though the single charge he could willingly have born upon the other account.  
His removal thence to Astbury he thus records himself: I was ordered and called to Astbury in Cheshire about Novem. 17. 1652. but expressed not my full consent until the Spring following— Then I left Atherston. About this time his Father died, of which he saith thus, He died on March 12. 1652. being the Sabbath day about ten of the clock at night, about the 55th year of his Age, with these words in his mouth, Psal. 39.5. Behold thou hast made my days as an hand breadth, and mine age is as nothing before thee; Verily every man at his best state is altogether vanity. And said to his Mother and Sisters standing by & weeping; why do you so? you have a God that will be better than ten thousand Husbands and Fathers.  
He wisely observed, when such an unthought of loss befell him, how he was employed at that instant— saying. At the time he died I was at prayer, and that with the most remarkable impressions that I ever had, both in pleading for mercy for him, and on a sudden submitted to the Lords determination. Many observable warnings he had from the Lord of this Event, before it came to pass; His serious and solemn exposition and application of Job 21.23, 24. in the Family, before any sickness appeared, March 9.2. His earnestness to know his Father's Soul-estate, before they parted the next morning, and also to thank his love and care in his behalf, and to understand his mind and will concerning himself and outward estate, while he yet continued in perfect health. 3. The day following (having occasion to send home) he recommended by the messenger that Scripture, Isa. 38.1, 2, 3. to his Father. These with several other notable passages, and pious improvements he made hereof, gave him hope that this sad providence was in love to him, and in mercy to his Father, whom he could not reach to see in the land of the living.  
Not long after he removed to Astbury, and changed his condition, whereof he saith thus himself, The good hand of my everliving Father so disposing, I had some Christian acquaintance in Darbyshire, especially I observed one forward in the Profession at Mickleover near Derby, who might be to me as Rebecca to Isaac, by name Jane Butler (Daughter to John Butler) on whom my thoughts much settled, with submission to my heavenly Father's will, and she became my Wife Sept. 29. 1653. at Vttoxeter, whom God gave to me, and with her what I expected in an humble and gracious woman, Prov. 31.11, 12. & 29.30, 31. her price was above Rubies, her Portion of outward Estate very considerable.  
His managing that affair was in such an holy and heavenly manner, that all their meetings on that account were improveed to the utmost advantage of both their souls, and their very marriage fixed on one of his lecture-days, where two of his Brethren preached and joined in the Solemnisation thereof; and after two days stay with his Wife, went a long journey to the work of the Lord for many days following; whereby he made it evident, how much the greatest worldly comforts were made subordinate to the joy of the Lord, and wore so far from hindering, that they rather enlarged and fitted him up in the ways of God.  
His first contrivance of a Lecture was some months before his Father's death, and no sooner was the Estate his own, but he resolves a share of it for God, and will not serve the Lord with that which costs him nothing. Take his intentions in his own words, out of his own papers thus. I intent a monthly Lecture to be preached at these following towns of greatest concourse, viZ. Newcastle, Leake, Vttoxeter, Lichfield, Tamworth, Walsall, Wolverhampton, Penkridge, Stafford, Eccleshall, Stone, Muckleston in the County of Stafford the last Friday in each month, allowing (of the Lords fullness in my hands) thirteen shillings and four pence to the Ministers that preach to convert souls, and one Shilling to be given to twelve of the poorest people in the Church. In all Eight pounds and twelve shillings in the year. This was the resolution of an heart engaged to him, one that would honour the Lord with his Substance, & is J.M. July 31. 1652. And presently after his Father's Burial, he wrote this following Paper about this thing. I believed the Lord could give more days, but yet do will, that 8 l. 12 s. per Annum, be for ever set apart for the Gospel, of my own estate, that immortal souls may be won, and God's portion in the world increased. To be disposed as abovesaid, or as my Brethren Mr. N. and Mr. S. my dearest fellow labourers shall judge and find most abundantly, and effectually to accomplish Christ's ends and mine, saying Rom. 10.1. my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.  
This Lecture he set on foot this Summer. The first day was at Newcastle, Aug. 4. 1653. where his two foresaid friends did preach, as also the third course which was at Vttoxeter Sep. 29. following, being the day of his marriage. And this business was so much in his heart and purpose, that when some scruple was made about it in the settlement of his Land at marriage, he hath these words in a Letter— Whether I change my condition or not, I have cause and call to respect my promise to the Lord and his Gospel, in the thing I intended; which I think will now be preferred before the change of my condition.  
And that you may discern the undissembled holiness of his heart, and bend of soul also to this good work, we shall transcribe some passages of the Will he made Nou. 16. 1653. not two months after his marriage— I commit my soul to God, my God and my Saviour, that created and redeemed it, even into the bosom of the Father of Spirits; my body to my Father Corruption, and to the Worms my Mother and Sister, Job 17.14. In hopes he will make good to me (who with them some time have endeavoured to serve him) his promise of Eternal Life, Rom. 2.7. As for my dear beloved Wife, I freely return (and I pray it may be with advantage) to him that hath lent her, to whom I leave, Joh. 17.24. Revel. 21. last, Judas 24. Psal. 84.10, 11. hoping that I leave them heirs together with me, or rather with Jesus Christ, of a Kingdom that cannot be removed. If the Lord should graciously give me Issue, (I pray it may be of his Heritage, and prepared for a Room in Heaven!) to it I would leave, 1 Chron. 28.9. and I pray God see it executed according to my will. And it is my will concerning my Heir, (if the Lord give one) that he may be a Samuel lent to the Lord and his Service in the Ministry; for I can say, he is an ask of the Lord, as was Samuel. And that he may have my inheritance, performing his Fathers and my will concerning my Lecture. As for my Personal Substance, etc. ending thus— Praying whoever rules here, may keep open house for God and his, and all I leave may be his, to whom I would in faith say, Psal. 31.5. hereunto subscribing with my heart and hand, J. M.  
And in a Schedule dated herewith as followeth. Some particulars concerning the thing that hath long been in my heart to do for God, written as my last will, as an occasion of some standing Service, when I am not.  
Motives. God's Glory, Christ's Kingdoms increase, and poor Souls Salvation, an expression of my thankfulness for what he hath done for our family, and for me the least and last of it. And the rather, because I am here in my own apprehension so little serviceable in speaking, doing, and suffering for him, and nothing at all advantageous in writing, as others have been, and I could have desired. Those Motives, together with that blessed experience I have had of its advantage already through Gods sealing work with it, makes me to think myself favoured the more of God, if I may do this for him; and I doubt not but he can and will, if need be, give me and mine much more than this, as is said, 2 Chro. 52.9. and if I could say as David, 1 Chron. 29.23. I would think it little betwixt him and me, who hath said, That whosoever shall give you a cup of cold water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward; and my Prayer is, that those that come after me (whose it might have been) think its better bestowed, than the rest.  
The Thing. A double Lecture, viz. of two Sermons once a month, chief intending Souls Conversion.  
The Ministers. The most Orthodox able and powerful that can be procured for love to Jesus Christ and his Service, or the will of the dead; chosen by my trusties successively.  
The trusties. Four Ministers, and four Laymen. The Ministers I leave in trust, and question not their faithfulness herein for Christ sake, are my dearest fellow-labourers in our Lords work, Mr. N. Mr. S. Mr. B. and Mr. J. with whom I only leave for their direction and encouragement, 1 Cor. 15.58. Mat. 28.20. The Laymen whom I put in joint trust are Mr. B. Mr. M. Mr. B. and  T. H. all whose faces I hope to see in Heaven; with them I leave for their refreshment when taking some steps about it, Mat. 25.39, 40.— for Eternity is the place I would be for, to which when gone, I am but a little before, and you a little behind.  
This Lecture he kept up by his constant cost and care, from Aug. 4: 1653. monthly, until Jan. 2. 1659. whereof he kept an exact account in a Catalogue, wherein he took notice of the day of the month, the place, the persons that Preached, and their Texts, some hints of the Congregation both number and seriousness 〈◊〉 continued it, until the times would neither encourage nor bear it, and thereupon it not only fell, but also (wanting public liberty for such an Exercise according to the purpose of his heart) he suspended his intentions, and disposed this Land otherwise.  
It seems to be like the pious intention of David, upon the most holy and affectionate motives, 2 Sam. 7.2. (and such, as we read not that Solomon had, that after did it) to build an house to the Lord. But the Lord accepted his desire, blessed him for his pious design, but would have his Son do it. So God may revive this design on the hearts of his Son or Successors, who finding the blessing of their Father's Prayers, Piety, and Promises descending upon them, may arise to build and finish what he began.  
We find him now settled at Astbury, whether he came to keep house in May 1654. where he saith himself,— I was entertained without exception or interruption. And though for some years we met with troubles, yet did the Lord stand betwixt me and all my trouble, so that many times I was as a man wholly free, and was made amends for all my Sufferings of that nature, by the Lord's presence, sweet and powerful in his Ordinances, especially in that of the Lords Supper, there set on foot in March 1654. and continued without interruption monthly, or once in six weeks till Anno 1660.  
And the Lord did mightily strengthen his hands and encourage his heart in this ordinance, and great care he took in preparation for it, spending the Friday before the Sacrament in public prayers and preaching God's Word, and the day after the Sacrament in thanksgiving at his own or some other neighbour-family, especially where there fell out in any Communicants family any occasion of special thanksgiving, as recovery from sickness or the like.  
A faithful account he hath taken and left hereof, noting the Text preached upon, by himself or his Brethren on those days, and according to his observation giving a general character of Gods dealing with them in his Ordinance in such words as these: The Lord's supper was Sep. 21. 1656. a day of breaking bread indeed, for Christ was broken to the breaking of some hearts, that thought they could never be broken.— The Thanksgiving was at— whereby many it was said, Psal. 103. 1 Sam. 7.20. Again, S●p. 1660. His last Sacrament there thus— A good and great day as formerly, the Lords presence and Communion with his Blood made it so. And as much cause of thanksgiving for all the Ordinances that day: especially I, etc.  
By Mr. Ms. coming to Astbury, he had only opportunity of preaching there each other Lords day, and had liberty on the other for his Charity-service, which he hearty rejoiced in, and was ready freely to help any of his Brethren, so that he was seldom a day at ease. And now he had opportunity to be acquainted with the Ministers and Congregations in Cheshire, where the Lord blessed his endeavours to many souls.  
For his labours here were much enlarged by the many fast-days which he kept upon occasions offered, unto which he was very ready, and would gather up such special things as any in or out of his family desired to be recommended unto God in prayer on such days, and at other times, and press them to particularise some special thing, lest they should come unto God on a sleeveless errand, which things he would frequently write down in a paper for that purpose, that those who were employed might read it, and so be enabled pertinently to pray for one another. And he did much desire to make these days, and indeed all Ordinances very serious, and to rescue them from that formality that ordinarily accompanies them, being little content with the work done, unless he found something done thereby upon his own and others hearts. Great benefit and comfort he knew was to be had in these ordinances, and he would not rest contentedly without it; but diligently observed the success of them, and upon Gods withdrawing from him, made it his business to seek his God until he found him again, and the Cause also of his withdrawing.  
The strength of affection which he had in God's worship was discernible to all that joined with him, so that he seemed Deum toto ictu animae tetigisse, and particularly in singing of Psalms, which he did with such an apparent intention of mind and heart as is not ordinary, and divers yet living shall never forget with what faith and fervency he would pronounce Amen, Amen, at the end of a prayer.  
And after holy duties his heart was (commonly) greatly lifted up in the ways of the Lord, and though he fared never so well in it, yet he had not done with an Ordinance when it was over, but had the heart unto, and the art of improving an enlarged heart and would then with a Dexterity and Sincerity of his own put on to holy discourse; as not only publicly urging things pro forma, but would follow it after with all his might, as if (being the Lord's Ambassador) he waited for an answer to him that had sent him.  
A most unwearied man he was in Religious Duties, and was never observed to give our, though sometimes on special occasions they continued all night therein. After one of these days of special Communion with God, he retired with two or three beloved friends in private, and there moved each of them to name some one thing they would chief desire of the Lord, and so each of them prayed over all those particulars that were cast in. And the impressions and affections raised in their hearts by this occasion, will not easily be forgotten by such as yet survive.  
And for the increase of Knowledge and Holiness, he held up a Conference to his own and people's great benefit, and that no time might be lost, nor any one's Mite neglected, he would take the answers of those that were absent at the stated times, when he occasionally and opportunely met them, and sometimes before the whole Assembly were gathered together at days of Prayer; so that he was always doing and designing the best advantage of the people's Souls upon all occasions.  
Whilst he was Minister at Astbury, it pleased the Lord to give him four of the five Children which the Lord made him Father of; concerning whose births he thus spakes in the faithful Memorials which he left. The first Will I made was suddenly after Marriage [he means the first form Sealed Will] and in it spoke of a Son Samuel, as if I had seen him by faith, though he was not then in being; and it was a full quarter of a year before we had sensible hopes of a Child, which was given us about March 9 1653. at which time the Orchard was planting. In May following we came to set up housekeeping at Astbury, where God gave us the birth of our ask of God, 1 Sam. 1.20. Samuel born, Nou. 13. about eleven of Clock at night, Baptised the Sabbath day following; chief called Samuel, because asked of God by Father, Mother, by both, and many Christian friends there and elsewhere, with great ends propounded at such times of Prayer, viz. that he might be one to bear Gods Name here in his Church on Earth, and one to take up a Room prepared for him in glory. The Lord be Surety for thee my Son! The Lord forbidden thou shouldst come short of these ends, prayed thy Father. Thus did he set upon his head the Remembrance of the Mercy of God in his Birth, as the Servants of God of old did make the very names of their Children, the means of remembering God's signal mercies to them, and so constant occasions and provocations to God's praise, which this gracious Man abounded in. Again— In the first year of his life, he was by sickness twice under the sentence of death; but Prayer that obtained him, kept him.  
Another great Deliverance to this Child he recorded, which if it affect his heart when he is able to consider it, as it did his Fathers (who would make large Narratives thereof, and beg the serious praises of his friends for it with extraordinary affections) it will be of no small advantage to his Soul to in dear him to the God of his life. Thus he records it— Memorandum, That July 10. 1656. the Lord prevented the death of my Son Samuel, which in all probability might have been with my own hand, bowling a stone with all my might towards the Child, whether I saw him before it went out of my hands or no, I know not; but its motion was directly towards his face, coming up the steps in the Garden-walk, and the visible means of prevention in God's hand was another stone that turned it out of the Pathway within a few steps of him. This was an awakening Providence to me and my Wife that day, and sent us to our God on our knees, partly for Humiliation, partly for Gratulation. And this stone he kept in his Study, and (without Superstition) made it his remembrancer to continue his thankfulness to God for this great Deliverance. And O that Parents would in this sort transmit to their Children an account of God's deal with them, when they knew him not! what obligations would it lay upon them to love and serve the Lord, when grown to age and understanding? That the Generation to come might know them, even the Children that should be born, who should arise and declare them to their Children, That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his Commandments, Psal. 78.6, 7.  
Of his second Child he thus saith. My Daughter Lydia (so called for that good woman's sake, Acts 16.14.) was born at Astbury, March 29. 1656. and there baptised, Apr. 6. etc.  
My second Son John was born Sept. 1. 1658. about six in the morning, at which time Mr. R.M. (a dear Brother and Fellow-labourer) and I might be at Prayer for my wife, as I understood at my return. And he was no less a Son of Prayers. The Lord make him a Son of his blessings, taking him with the rest into that Everlasting Covenant, Jerem. 32.40. John was baptised at Astbury, Sept. 12. when I gave him this name John, and prayed, The Lord be gracious to him.  
Our second Daughter Sarah was born Octob. 8. 1660. and I baptised her at Astbury, Octob. 23. by the token of that word then and there, Joh. 3.5. etc.  
When this Winter was past, this Holy man removed to Whitley, May 17. 1661. of whose success there, he himself gives this account.— After some time I found that God was with me in Ordinances, to make Conversion work; and in Providences to prevent evils, and to reach good things to us. Let it be remembered to his praise, that Octob. 23. 1661. my Son John was within a step of drowning, and Providence ordered me within fight at that time, though I had been from home the fortnight before. And not an hour after, my Daughter Sarah was almost choked with a thread, to our great affrightment; but we saw the Lords hand very notable in her preservation, as we had done the Spring before from sickness in answer to Prayers, Psal. 103.4.  
Another merciful preservation of his Son John he subjoins in these words: Memorandum, That our Son John had a notable escape and preservation from drowning, as he and his Brother were coming from School, Jun. 18. 1664. but blessed be God, who is present, when Parents are absent.  
Here he continued labouring in the Lord's Vineyard unto Aug. 24. 1662. at which time he took his Civil Death with many of his Brethren, being unsatisfied to Conform as the Act of Uniformity then required. But no man took his Death with less reflection upon Superiors, or more grief for that affliction. But yet there he continued, labouring for the people's advantage with all his strength, and was a singular blessing to the Neighbourhood round about, having his heart uncessantly bend towards the good of Souls. And the Neighbouring Gentry, though of a different Persuasion, yet offered him not the least molestation in his honest endeavours, as being convinced of the Innocence and Peaceableness of his Spirit, and uprightness of his ends therein.  
After this his youngest Child was born, which he thus records; My Daughter Esther was born, Jan. 28. 1663. and baptised at Whitley, Jan. 31. and called Esther, because hidden. Hidden, as to Conception until time of life; and hid, as to the time of Travel. It was then prayed, Lord give her the hid treasure of his fear, Isa. 33.6. and make her a hid treasure to his house and ours also!  
And having thus made use of these his Memorials, we shall add what himself said of the writing of them in these words; The occasion of making and writing this Book, was a thought I had, what was become of all my Forefathers, and what price I should set upon one of their Manuscripts concerning the State of our Family, Nation or Church of God in it 500 years since. Whereupon I resolved this Work for my Son's sake, and Posterities imitation; when it may be said of us in this Generation, as of Israel once, in that Exod. 1.6. And Joseph died and all his Brethren, and all that Generation. I John Machin, called by him who separated me from the Womb, (Gal. 1.15.) to the hope of having my name in the Book of Life, and likewise to be an Ambassador of my Lord Christ Jesus, was in my great Master's work at Astbury in Cheshire, Anno 1655. when I first set Pen hereunto. And so he continued it, observing things remarkable towards him and his Family to the last year of his life, which we have made use of in divers places of this Narrative.  
And now having brought him within the view of his Father's house, before we give an account of the last part, wherein he took possession of his expected Crown, we shall give you his just Character. 1. In his Personal, 2. his Relative Capacity.  
I. In himself; 1, he was of an excellent Spirit, in the sense of Pro. 17.27. as dispassionate as most we ever knew. One that lived with him for some time, says truly of him, That he knew not that ever he saw him transported with passion; but angry he would be at Sin, yet still exactly after his Lord and Master's passion, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, Mark 3.5. yet his Reproofs were always so moderated with Love and Compassion, that the Offender could not but see, that he intended them for his good.  
2. He had good natural Parts, and was no Novice in all that learning which was necessary for his work. For though he was more abundant in public Preaching than most others, which must needs hinder his Studies, yet what time of vacancy he had from this work, he diligently redeemed for his Book, and took in Philosophy, the Tongues, History, Positive and Practical Divinity, in his course of Study; being never well, unless in Study, or in immediate Duties, or holy Conference: though (as it was once said of Plato's Householdstuff) it was truly said of all his Studies, There was nihil in pompam, omne in usum. And like one of the Architects in Plutarch, who when the other had made an artificial discourse of his skill to contrive a new building, before those that were to make their choice of them; He only said, All that this man hath said, I can do. So this Holy Man had the Knowledge of Doing; what others could learnedly Dispute and Discourse of, he could learnedly live in every point, that became a Learned Preacher.  
3. He had an extraordinary measure of Holiness and Heavenliness; according to the Observation that a Judicious Divine long since made of him That he had more than ordinary degrees of Sanctification. He was of a quick understanding in the fear of the Lord, and had the tongue of the learned to speak a word in season to the state of all Souls. This was his Masterpiece, and was naturalised to him.  
He had a singular ingenuity in improving Scripture Similitudes, and every Occurrence with unimaginable dexterity, each Tree, and Bird, and Stone, would be a Text whereon he would aptly enlarge; having a mighty wit for the Spiritualizing of every thing, and gathering occasion of good Converse in every Company, and almost upon every matter, and it was apparent, That out of the abundance of his heart his mouth spoke.  
His holy jealousy and fear of himself was very great. A dear friend that well knew him, writes thus of him. Never man more watchful against Relapses, nor more jealous to maintain his first love to the height. I have sometimes told him, that it was not usual for Converts to retain that Land flood of comfort, that intention of zeal, and extension of affection which flourished in him, and was preserved to the height; he must expect an abatement in time, and the Current thereof to be contracted and settled in a narrower Channel. He often reflected on these words, o'er tenus, and in his Letters intimating he was what he was heretofore, not without an admiration of supporting Grace. Thereunto he ascribed all he was. And indeed he was so habituated unto Spiritual Communion with his God, that he could not patiently bear his withdrawings, and was far more sensibly and sooner ware of it, than many others are, that can to their great loss admit of other delights instead of his face and favour; but this Holy Man did most eagerly seek for him upon all occasions, till he found Him whom his Soul loved.  
He was a great Observer of the frame and bent of his heart at all times; a worthy Minister writes thus of him. I have admired at the constant frame of his Spirit; he was not subject to that deadness and indisposedness as other good men seem to be; his heart was continually burning with an holy zeal. Take a taste of his excellent sweet frame of heart in this short Letter-passage to a Friend. My dear, dear, dear Brother, I pray thee, I pray thee report the loving kindness of the Lord unexpressible unto a poor vile empty altogether undeserving worm, for I have found an answer this day, this day more than ever to our Prayers, and can say, the Lords work will on, though hell say no: and still Believe, Preach, Pray and Believe, Lam. 3.25. I am constrained to say, Isa. 63.7. Neither thou nor any of my friends can conceive how good the Lord is to me, even to me. I pray thee and others think and study how good he is to me, to me, to me.  
And a constant watch he kept over his thoughts, especially of his last thoughts that he slept with, and his first thoughts that he waked with; and usually they were some precious Scripture or other, which he would discourse of to his friends with great alacrity.  
He kept a Diary of his Life, wherein every day he wrote in Characters where he was, what Scriptures he found any sweetness from, what was the state of his Soul towards God; and such other remarkable passages that did occur each day, from the year 1650. to the year he died.  
His love to the Word of God was superlative: it was his Meditation day and night. He did constantly in a morning pitch upon some Verse, which he would endeavour to infuse into his heart; ever unwilling to leave it, till he had sucked some virtue from it. He was chewing by Meditation the 119th. Psalm, at the time of his sickness, daily squeezing the virtue of one verse thereof into his Soul, as appears by his Diary; and this he did, not formally as a task, but with that effectual seriousness and relish, that his family at home, and friends at a distance, in his Letters might perceive exactly, what dainties he had tasted. And at every vacant time, he would be looking for a word, and would find out by the casual turning down a leaf in his Bible (which was his usual way) such passages as were very remarkable and not observed before. A Scripture thus met with, was as food to him, exceeding sweet to his taste, he would make much of it, and usually would not leave it, till he had improved it to the good of others by speaking or writing, that others might see what he saw, and feel what he felt in the word of God.  
Another usage he had also, which shown him to be both a good Textuary, and a good Christian; and that was usually to take leave with his Friends and Relations, by leaving some Scripture with them, and those most suitable to their condition; nay he hardly sent commendations to a friend, but it was accompanied with some pertinent Scripture, that he seemed to breathe no other air but Scripture. His Bible was his constant Companion in the day, and usually his Pillow at night; and many scores of emphatical lively expressions he had found therein, which the constant reading and diligence of others could never light on. And wherever he came, he was engraving some Scripture or other on the Mantle-posts, and Walls, and Trees; which was so constant and peculiar a course with him, that his acquaintance oft knew he had been in such a place, by the marks he usually left. His design therein being, the advantage of all men's Souls; that the very novelty of seeing such things, might set people upon enquiring and looking those those Scriptures in their Bibles, not knowing what good one Verse of the Scripture (thus met with) might do upon a Soul, if God set it on. At least he found this advantage to himself, that when he came to a review of them, he was put in mind of that frame of heart he had when he was there before; and might taste over again, what he had before felt, in that passage of the Word of God. He seldom wrote a Note or Letter, but he made it up with some suitable Scripture (the word of God dwelling plentifully in him) and in the Memorials forementioned, he inserts Scriptures upon every occasion, saying in the conclusion, The Texts of Scripture herein mentioned, are best worth thy finding and noting in thy life, as they were in mine.  
His moderation was remarkable to all sorts of godly people, though of differing judgements; his heart and heat being wholly taken up with the great and necessary parts of Religion, that all true Christians agreed in: and making the substance of Religion his work and business, he never had leisure to trouble himself with controverted circumstances, nor would put his Soul out of tune with such things, as had caused so much jarring and disharmony among Christians. He was never (or very seldom, and then not out of choice) heard to discourse of the dividing Controversies of the times.  
A peculiar trial he was exercised with, soon after his entrance on his Ministerial work, and that was by strange and horrible apprehensions in the night season, as if he were cut in pieces with knives, or the like; and he was in as real agony and distress, as if he had felt the pain of such torment indeed. Perhaps it proceeded from natural causes, occasioned by his extraordinary pains which did heat his body, and that might influence upon his fancy and disturb it, and thereby beget such apprehensions in him. But he still apprehended it to be the buffet of Satan: they usually followed days of great pains, and days of great inward comforts, and he was often forced by them to leap out of his bed in the night, and go to Prayer for ease and delivery. He would very pathetically bewail those gloomy nights, and (what cause soever they proceeded from) they were great occasions to realize the apprehensions of hell to him, and to keep him humble.  
II. In his Relative Duties, he was abundantly diligent and faithful.  
1. In his Family, he walked in a perfect way in the midst of his house. There he constantly read the Scripture: a portion of the Old Testament in the morning, and of the New Testament in the evening, and sung some verses of the Psalms in order, at every Duty. After Reading, he examined each one present what they remembered and observed, and then would open and enlarge upon each one's portion, and also on what was most observable and practical in that Scripture. Neither did he circumscribe Religion to Family duties (as many do, who from morning, to evening Prayer scarce ever think or speak of spiritual things) but had familiarized holy Discourse in his house all the day long, as there was any occasion or opportunity. He always repeated at home the Sermons he heard abroad. The Lords-days Sermon, he used to repeat the Saturday afternoon following, or some other Sermon to prepare for the ensuing Sabbath. On the Lordsday evening he would take his Children in private, and there instruct them, and there teach them how to pray. He constantly Catechised his Children and Servants twice in the week, causing them to get some verses of the Scripture and of their Catechism daily by heart. He often had private Fasts with his family only, and was well versed in secret humiliation also. His ardent desires and endeavours after the Salvation of his Children and other Kindred are further evident, in a serious Discourse to his Son, on 1 Chron. 28.9. which he hath prepared; and another, which he called, A word to my merely Natural Friends, on Isa. 55.7. which (if not with this Narrative) may in due time see the light, to the great advantage of his Relations and others; wherein the precious breathe of his Soul after his Children and Friends in the flesh are largely manifested. And upon this account he gave twenty of Mr. baxter's Calls to the unconverted amongst his Kindred and Servants; in divers whereof he framed and wrote such pertinent Dialogues, as were most suitable to their Soul's Estate.  
2. In his Ministry indefatigable. He was in Labours oft, in Journeying oft. We may truly apply to him, that which the Apostle said of Timothy, Phil. 2.20. We have no man like minded that doth naturally care for the State of Souls. His mighty forwardness and earnestness in this work, his travelling, and toiling, and procuring all the help he could for the work, was so great, that it could not have been more, if he had foreseen the shortness of his own days, or the length of our night. And the more universal was the influence of his labours, in that he was strangely stirred up to Preach in several parts of the Country; Ministers and people generally promoting and accepting his holy and sincere endeavours, where envy or prejudice did not manifestly interpose.  
When other Ministers or himself have been employed in the usual courses of the day, he would often choose rather to repeat the Sermon to the people at Noon, than go to his Dinner; according to the pattern of his dear Master before him, Joh. 4.33, 34. And indeed sometimes his zeal to the work of God would carry him to do more than his body or the people's convenience could well bear; but as it was sincerely meant by him, so it was generally well taken by them, and God made it answerable in the event.  
It is said of Mr. Latimer, that when he had reproved some peccant persons in his time somewhat sharply, and was complained of for lack of discretion, he would reply, that he was glad they had no allegation against him, but want of discretion; it being evident thereby, that the substance of his business was right: so for this our glorified Brother, the worst that could be laid to his charge was, sometimes want of Prudence in respect of the length and frequency of his labours. A thing he might well be excused in, when so few transgress on that hand: many being too wise to be serious, too exact to remit the least of their conceited neatness for the benefit of their hearers, or to go out of their road to fetch a Soul in to Christ.  
For this good Man, such was his heavenly spirit and way in his work, that though the matter he brought was ordinary, yet the manner he delivered it in was not ordinary, and his success was great in the Conversion of many Souls. One says that well knew him, and oft accompanied him: I cannot forget how the people after a day of Preaching, would meet him with tears in their eyes, some following him, many thanking him for his pains, and by their Countenances showing they had met with God in the Ordinance. And this is sure, That he that winneth Souls is truly wise. If that great Man on his deathbed could profess, that one Soul Converted by his means, would be a greater honour and comfort to him, than all the Greatness and Honours he had enjoyed: with what glory is this Holy Man gone off the Stage, that was an Instrument in the hand of God's Spirit to Convert many, and to Convince and Quicken more?  
His Converse was a continual Sermon. He never went, but the Minister, and the warm-hearted Christian went with him. He was the same out of the Pulpit as in it. A lively Comment on the Apostles words, Let your Speech be always seasoned with Salt, that it may minister grace to the hearers: far from that common formality of most Preachers, that as if they had left all their Divinity and Heat in the Pulpit, come down and talk like other men; which tempts people to rest little affected with those Truths, that seem so little to affect the Preacher himself, and to hold those things but mere notions, when (like the Actor of a Tragedy that hath done his part) the Minister talks and walks as if he were unconcerned in the solemn things he hath treated on.  
Some that have traveled with him a journey (which usually were upon some religious account) have been even ravished in their souls with his heavenly expressions, & to prayer he would immediately go either publicly in the Family, or privately in his Chamber, in every house where he came.  
He had an undaunted boldness in the reproving of a sinner: How have some of us seen him in an Inn upon his journey, Thunder-striking a Swearer in this manner, Who was it there, that durst abuse the Name of the God of Heaven? And he would ever on purpose, when talking with his friends on the way, choose some weighty word to speak, as he met with people that passed by, that so it might stick, and this bread of his that was cast on the waters, would some times return to him after many days.  
He had a singular presence of heart and matter, to speak to whomsoever he met, and great condescension to explain himself, wherein any did not understand him; as once in a Snowy day, meeting suddenly with a man driving his horses, that saluted him, and said, well met Sir; I but, says he, we shall be better met if we meet in Heaven, and such like. Few poor ever went from his door, without a most powerful spiritual alms; and he would order them a larger allow a●●e, that would admit of his celestial relief.  
But especially his faculty excelled, in Discoursing with people on the way, with whom he would very handsomely insinuate, into very material and yet familiar discourse of Eternal things, find out their ignorance, mightily amaze and convince them, and lay thereby the happy foundation of future acquaintance upon this best count, which practices of his may shame and teach us: for alas! what through the earthlyness, and vanity, and what through the bashfulness of our hearts, Christ and Heaven are generally excepted out of our discourse. We can speak of any thing but the soul, of any person but of Jesus, and of any place but of Heaven; and it is almost a crime for a Christian to talk of Christiani●●. What an unreasonable thing is it, that we who pretend for Heaven, should not as readily, ordinarily, and cheerfully fall into discourse concerning God's word, and our Salvation, as the worldlings and wicked ones can of their Lands and Lusts? No other talk but what leads towards God shall be worth talking over again in the Kingdom of Heaven. Divers Dialogues that were on such occasions framed by him, are dispersed in the hands of friends, that would (if published) show his excellent Genius this way, and perhaps stir us all up to be more fruitful in such discourse. One Instance hereof is remarkable. Riding one morning to a Lecture, he met with some young men carrying their Cocks to a Cockfight; he overtaking them, dropped this word to one of them: Friend, our Lord and Master Jesus Christ never came into the world to set up such sports as these. These words & some further discourses (though the young man went on to his sport that day) stuck like an arrow in his liver, and he could not be at quiet, till he had learned who this Minister was, and after gained acquaintance with him, and thereupon laid these and his other sins to heart, and made an happy change of his courses.  
He was a zealous improver of good society. His ordinary visits, were seldom finished without prayer with his friends before they parted. And when divers good people were all night together, he would be tying them as it were end to end, and engaging them to pray one after another, often to midnight, or else to produce their several evidences for Heaven and would sometimes raise the company an hour before day in the morning to wrestle and weep together, that the fire might not go out upon the hearth of their souls being so constantly blown up; yea the very crumbs of piety that fell from him at his table, were most refreshing and heavenly, and a plain argument, that it was his meat and drink to do his Father's will and finish his work.  
He had most ingenious devices and witty artifices, flowing from his rooted affection to God, whereby after some Solemn days, he would engage his Christian friends to a closer conversation. Take an Instance or two hereof, as we find them left on record— Articles betwixt Christ and two souls.  
1. That we be his willing, loving and obedient Spouses.  
2. That we labour by all means to know more of his mind, and then to tell it one to another, and draw to the practice of it.  
3. That we be always jealous, left each other take his room, and to be indifferent, and moderate in everything, and every one, but to Him and His.  
4. That whatever creatures are betwixt us, they be improved to highest advantage betwixt Christ and our souls.  
5. That we connive not at sin in each other, but be tender of one another's souls and bodies.  
6. That we love and live each day as the last.  
7. That we faithfully endeavour performance of each others will, while living and when dead, so far as Reason and Religion may bind.  
8. That we be in every condition more willing, to go live with Christ our Husband, than stay here one with another for pleasure sake.  
9 That we endeavour seasonableness and suitableness in every duty, etc.  
And another to this effect— Seabridge Oct. 8. where His name was that day recorded. Before the Lord & in his strength, I promise to draw near to God, believing he will draw near to me. I pass away and part with my own power to Him, that I may be His, not another's. Subscribing with heart and hand, praying and believing the Lord will undertake for me, that I never go back in a thought; Or else this will stand in full force against me at that great day to come, Phil. 4.13. H. N. Cant. 8.5. J. M. Psal. 119.106. J. M. Zach. 8.21. M. M. Psal. 119.80. N.B. Isa. 38.10. E. H. 2 Cor. 3.5. etc.  
He was one that set great store by the prayers of his Friends, and was a very faithful remembrancer of them that desired his prayers; which he used to do with that heartiness, and sympathy, and inlargedness of heart, that it would much work upon their hearts, and engage them to more seriousness in their own business, and in affection to him, that so kindly concerned himself in their affairs. And with great fervour would he plead with God in their absence, not only to satisfy his conscience & promise of remembering them, but with strong cries to prevail for them. Besides that frequent course he held, of putting on persons to tell him before prayer began, what they would have chief begged for them at the Throne of Grace, by which they were sent into their own souls, to study their inward and present condition.  
A dear friend upon this account saith thus. He gave this Rule touching praying for friends, which I have, endeavoured since to make my directory in that Case. Always, when you think on your Friends, let it be with a praying thought. He would sometimes have his intimate friends writ down in his Day-book, and so mutually, what especial thing they should intercede for in one another's behalf till their next meeting.  
His Letters were frequent and full of Heaven, commonly setting time apart for writing such letters, as he was in arrear, and seldom upon any business but Religion was interwoven; and such plenty of sweet Scriptures and postscripts, that sometimes some Scripture would be endorsed on the outside of his letters, when sent by a friend's hand. In this useful part of Friendship he was abundant & very profitable; there remaining yet (as is verily believed) many hundreds of his good letters in the hands of friends, wherein was scarce a syllable of any business but Religion. O how much good might many Able and Holy Divines do this way! to wit, by serious letters to their Kindred, and Acquaintance, yea even to strangers, which would do good not to one only, but many, yea, to the generation to come. How much doth the Church of God own to the letters of some modern and primitive Divines and others? Since a great part of our New Testament is the Letters of the Apostles, the heavenly plainness of whose style this good Man did much imitate, and it is well observed, that the best part of the works of famous Writers is their Epistles.  
And lastly, he was eminent in Real Charity: he had a faithful sympathy with those that were in any straight and affliction, and a ready hand to help them. He was far from that clumbzy frozen and strait-hearted manner of many, that are ready to say, go and be warmed, and go and be clothed; that are readier to censure their brethren's necessities, and increase their burdens by reproaches, than to reach out their hand to their assistance. No, he was a doing Christian according to, yea, and beyond his power. In his accounts to his Father from the University, they seldom found less than twelve pence a week to the poor, besides sometimes half a Crown at a time. And afterwards it was his delight to engage others, and to contribute himself in a liberal manner, twenty shillings, and five pound at a time to Charitable uses; sometimes to make a stock for such as were poor and pious, sometimes to help a Minister or other out of his straits, for which the bowels of many have blessed God for him in divers places.  
In short, he was a Star of the first Magnitude in the impartial judgement of those that throughly knew him. Thus saith an Eminent Divine to him in a familiar Letter. Dear Brother, I earnestly desire correspondence with thee; Thy Letters are precious and weighty to my Soul; Thou art more in my heart and eye and thoughts, than all the acquaintance I have in the world; I have seen that in thee, that hath no little convinced me of the Reality of Religion. These are not the words of a flatterer, but the overflowings of a sincere heart, etc.  
When we view him in his Natural and Moral accomplishments; in his graces, in his Relations, in his public and private behaviour, and in his true humility and sincerity which crowned all the rest; we must needs say, he feared God above many, and hath left but few such Ministers behind him.  
He had apprehensions of his Death long before it came. In a Letter May 1659. concerning an Old Disciple, this Clause: Will he not let me see him before I die? In another Novemb. 1659. these words; Lam. 3.21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 32. To which let thoughts be directed, when no more is to be seen or heard of me, but that I am thy Friend in store, not lost but laid up, J. M. In March 1663., he complains of frequent dejectedness and melancholy. And this passage he had in a letter June 28. 1664. I have been very melancholy some while by fits, what this precedes I know not. But the alwise God, whose ways are past finding out, well knew, that the shadows of the Evening were coming upon him.  
For intending shortly to remove to Seabridge, he took in his way the house of a worthy Gentleman, and there treated on these words Acts 20.24. Neither count I my life dear unto myself, etc. which he studied and preached as his last farewell to this world in a sickly condition, having spent many Sermons before on Rev. 22.3, 4, 5. sweet preparations to life everlasting. He grew worse and worse at Seabridge, and it proved an high malignant Fever. His Wife was sent for, who found him in his bed, and then he told her, he was ill, but whether it were life or death he would not choose, his Father should choose for him. The season for opening a vein, through the Physician's absence from home, was missed, and so his distemper prevailed. Looking his Face in the Glass, he broke out very affectionately into these words, Ah Adam, Adam, what hast thou done? what a beautiful happy Creature wast thou, but now how poor and sorrowful, etc. art thou? Ah Adam, what hast thou done? which greatly affected some that were present with him.  
But his distemper grew higher, whereby his Spirits were deadned in him, so that when his Wife and Children were about him, and she said; Love, thou sayest nothing to me, nor to thy Children; he only answered, That he had said to her and them too. How good therefore is it to observe, what Parents and Husband say to us, forasmuch as we know not, which counsel may be their last, and must stand for their deathbed charge unto us.  
On the 4th. of September, being the Lord's day, though through his distemper he was scarce sensible, yet perceiving it to be the Lords day, he would needs be helped up, and held up with pillows, that he might kneel down and offer at prayer, though he was disabled from performace.  
On Tuesday Sept. 6. in the evening this holy Man breathed his last, being the 17th day of his sickness, and in the 40th year of his age; and was buried Sept. 8. at Newcastle with a particular Encomium by the Preacher, and the profound grief of all the Congregation. The truth is, this world was not worthy of him, scarce any that began no sooner, and lived no longer, having done so much good in the world, as he did in his capacity.  
It is the sense and character of a learned and pious Divine and at this time a Dignitary in the Church — I am so well satisfied as to his extraordinary piety in the general, which I never yet heard, or believe he departed from, that I wish my everlasting portion may be with him— And after— To conclude, I never knew one more public spirited, more sensible of men's spiritual necessities, and more ready (to his ability) to supply them, more zealous for God's glory, more delighted, incessant, importunate, and successful in prayer, and more thankfully sensible of the returns thereof, than this Holy Person was, of whom this degenerate world was not worthy, & therefore having been abundant in the work of the Lord, God hath satisfied him with never ending experience, that his Labour (from which he now rests) may not be in vain in the Lord. The following of whose example will be the best amends, & greatest End of writing this his Life.  
FINIS.