Section 4
As the 127 donations, which had come in since Aug. 4th, were of a smaller kind, we had on Sept. 8th scarcely anything left, when I received the 280l. 10s. 6d., spoken of (Sept. 8th, 1852) under the Building Fund, of which 86l. 13s. 4d. was taken for the current expenses for the Orphans.
Oct. 7. This evening there was only 8l. left in hand for the current expenses for the Orphans. Hitherto we had generally abounded. But though much had come in, since the commencement of this new period, yet our expenses had been greater than our income, as every donation almost of which the disposal was left with me, had been put to the Building Fund. Thus the balance in hand on May 26, 1852, notwithstanding the large income since then, was reduced to about 8l. I therefore gave myself particularly to prayer for means, that this small sum might be increased. When I came home this evening from the New Orphan House, I found a letter from London, containing 2l., being two donations from Kelso, of 1l. each, and another letter from Peterborough, containing 1l.
Oct 8. This morning I received 5l. 5s. more from Willenhall. Thus the Lord has already been pleased to add 8l. in to the little stock in hand, which is now increased to 16l. 5s.—Another 6d. was added, by sale of a Report.—This evening the matron told me that tomorrow she would need to have more money. I generally advance 30l. at a time for housekeeping expenses, but I had now only 8l. 14s. left, as I had to pay out this afternoon 7l. 11s. 6d. This I purposed to give to her, should it not please the Lord to give more in the meantime, being assured that, before this amount was gone, He would give more. My prayer to the Lord, however, was that He would be pleased to send help, and I looked out for means. When I came home this evening I found a letter from Gosport, containing 1s., which a little boy has sent for the Orphans, having received it as a reward for picking up a ring, and giving it to the owner. Also a letter from Kingstown, Ireland, containing a Post-office Order for 1l. 7s., of which 1l. 2s. 6d. are for the Building Fund, and 4s. 6d. for Reports. I likewise received 6d. for missions and 6d. for the Orphans, from two boys in the neighbourhood of Stroud. Thus I have 9l, to advance tomorrow for house-keeping.
Oct. 9. This morning Luke vii. came in the course of my reading before breakfast. While reading the account about the Centurion and the raising from death of the widow's son at Nain, I lifted up my heart to the Lord Jesus thus: "Lord Jesus, Thou hast the same power now. Thou canst provide me with means for Thy work in my hands. Be pleased to do so." — About half an hour afterwards I received 230l. 15s. Also 1s. This 230l. 15s. was left at my disposal. I took one half for the current expenses for the Orphans, and the other half for the other objects, and am now amply provided for meeting the demands of this day.
The joy which such answers to prayer afford, cannot be described. I was determined to wait upon God only, and not to work an unscriptural deliverance for myself. I have thousands of pounds for the Building Fund; but I would not take of this sum because it was once set apart for that object. There is also a legacy of 100l. for the Orphans two months overdue, in the prospect of the payment of which the heart might be naturally inclined to use some money of the Building Fund, to be replaced by the legacy money, when it comes in; but I would not thus step out of God's way of obtaining help. At the very time when this donation arrived, I had packed up 100l. which I happened to have in hand, received for the Building Fund, in order to take it to the Bank, as I was determined not to touch it, but to wait upon God. My soul does magnify the Lord for His goodness.
This last paragraph is copied out of my journal, written down at the time, I add a few words more to the last sentences.
The natural mind is ever prone to reason, when we ought to believe; to be at work, when we ought to be quiet; to go our own way, when we ought steadily to walk on in God's ways, however trying to nature. When first converted, I should have said, What harm can there be to take some of the money, which has been put by for the Building Fund? God will help me again after some time with means for the Orphans, and then I can replace it. Or, there is this money due for the legacy of 100l. This money is quite sure; may I not, therefore, on the strength of it, take some from the Building Fund, and when the legacy is paid, replace the money which I have taken? I know that many would act thus. But how does it work, when we thus anticipate God, by going our own way? We bring, in many instances, guilt on our conscience; but if not, we certainly weaken faith, instead of increasing it; and each time we work thus a deliverance of our own, we find it more and more difficult to trust in God, till at last we give way entirely to our natural fallen reason, and unbelief prevails. How different, if one is enabled to wait God's own time, and to look alone to Him for help and deliverance! When at last help comes, after many seasons of prayer it may be, and after much exercise of faith and patience it may be, how sweet it is, and what a present recompense does the soul at once receive for trusting in God, and waiting patiently for His deliverance! Dear Christian reader, if you have never walked in this path of obedience before, do so now, and you will then know experimentally the sweetness of the joy which results from it. I now return to Oct. 9, 1852.
Received still further today, from Cirencester, 2l., and also 10l.
Oct. 10. From two little girls at Clifton, 5s.—By sale of a silver watch given for the purpose, 1l. 10s,—From a donor in Maryport Street, 3s. 4d.—Through Bethesda boxes 1s. Ditto 2s. 6d. Ditto a sovereign.—From a believer in Bristol 5s.—By sale of empty oatmeal barrels, 15s.
Oct. 11. From Sutton Points, 13s. 7d. —Through the boxes in the New Orphan House, 3s.—From an Orphans formerly under our care, and now in service, 10s., with 10s. for the Building Fund.—From a Christian lady, recently come from Edinburgh, 1l.—Through a Christian lady, staying at Clifton, 5s.
Oct. 12. By sale of rags and bones 12s. 6d. [I copy literally from the receipt book. We seek to make the best of every thing. As a steward of public money, I feel it right that even these articles should be turned into money; nor could we expect answers to our prayers if knowingly there were any waste allowed in connexion with this work. For just because the money is received from God, simply in answer to prayer only, therefore it becomes us the more, to be careful in the use of it].— By sale of Reports 5s.—From an Orphan box at Plymouth 3s., together with 8s. as a donation added, and 9s. for Reports. Still further help: This afternoon a lady of Clifton called at my house, and brought a check for 200l., which a gentlemen, whose name even I had never heard of, had sent her for the benefit of tine Orphans. We are not now in actual need, yet as 62l. lies already been paid out of what I have received since the 9th, and as other heavy payments are before me, in a few days, it is particularly kind of the Lord, to send this donation from a perfect stranger.
Nov. 13. Today was paid to me the legacy for the Orphans, to which reference has been made. I had no doubt it would come in in good time. Thus it is. The expenses are heavy, week after week. The day after tomorrow, I shall have again to pay out above 100l. for the Orphans.
On Dec. 20th, in the evening, I had only 16l. 9s. left. Think of this, dear Reader. So little, for so large an Establishment! From Dec. 20th to the evening of Dec. 26th, there came in only about 18l.; and as I had paid out above 13l., I could only advance 15l. for house-keeping on Dec. 27th, instead of the usual 30l., and had then about 5l. left for petty expenses. I knew that on the 31st I should have to advance again at least 20l. for house-keeping. Now see how the Lord was pleased to send in the means from the morning of Dec. 27th to Dec. 31st. Dec. 27. From Alcombe, near Minehead, 10s.—From a poor widow in Bristol, 5s.— Anonymously 1l. Ditto a sovereign, with these words: "An Orphan's mite for the Orphan House."—From Clifton, 1s., and 1s. besides.—Dec. 28. From Newport, in Monmouthshire, 10s. and 10s.—From Birmingham, 2l. 10s. with the same for my own personal expenses.—From Boscrea 7d. from three children.—From Lenwade, 10s.—Dec. 29. From B. B. at Leamington 5l.—Anonymously, from London, 2s. 5d.—From three sisters 10s., 5s., 1l., also 10s. 8 1/2 d.—By sale of Reports, 3s. —Through the boxes in the New Orphan House 1l. 6s. 9 1/2 d.—Dec. 30. By sale of Reports 2s. 6d.—From Clifton 5l.—From two Christian ladies in Buckinghamshire 20l.— From some pupils on Kingsdown 5s. Thus I had on Dec. 31st money enough to advance 25l. for house-keeping expenses, besides having had the means to pay away 20l. 5s. 9d. After I had given out the money in advance for house-keeping expenses, I had, at the close of the year, not 2l. left. But my mind was in full peace. Now see how, before the 25l. which had been advanced was expended, and before other expenses came upon me, the Lord was pleased to send in the means from the 1st to the 4th of January, 1853.—Jan. 1. Anonymously 1s.—From Sherborne, 1l.—From Colchester 10s.— From Manchester 10s.—From a distance 1l. 2s. 6d.—From Glouchstershire 14s. 6d.—From a brother in the Lord in Bristol 3l. 12s., together with 5s. 7d. from his Orphan box. This brother had it on his heart, more than a twelvemonth ago, to dispose of an article for the benefit of the Orphans, but could not meet with an opportunity till today. Thus, in this time of need, the Lord sends in this money.— Jan. 2. By sale of Reports 12s.—From two Christian sisters 5s., as a thank offering to the Lord for the mercies of the past year.—From a lady at Clifton 10s.—From a Brother in Bristol 1l.—-From Torquay 3s., with 3s. for Reports.—From Worcester 2s. 2d.—From a brother in Bristol 3l.—Jan. 3. From Waterford 1l.—From Liverpool 5l.— Also the 75l. being part of the 252l. 17s. 1d. spoken of under the Building Fund.—From Clifton 10s.—Through Salem boxes 2s. 6d.— From "P." 1s. Jan. 4. From Ryde 2l.—From Tottenham 10s. Thus God helped me in a time of great, great need. But before this 4th of January was over, He did far more than ever in the way of supplying me with means, for the largest of all the donations I had ever had, and of which mention has been made before, was given to me, of which 600l. was portioned out for the current expenses for the Orphans.
I have been thus particular in this last paragraph, on purpose, to give a practical illustration that those are entirely mistaken who suppose that the work is now no longer a work of faith, as it used to be in former years. It is true, we have now a larger income, then we used to have in the years 1838, 1839, and 1840; but it is also true that our expenses are three times as great. We have no regular income now; even as we had not then. We ask no human being now for help; even as we did not then. We depend alone upon God, by His grace even as we did then. Who is there in the whole world who will state that I ever asked him for help in this Orphan work, from its commencement, on Dec. 9, 1835, up till now? Now, as we have no funds to live upon; as we have no regular subscribers or donors upon whom we could depend; as we never ask help from man but God alone; and as, finally, we never did go into debt for this work, nor do we now: why is it not now a work of faith as formerly? Will those, who say it is not, place themselves in my position, when, at the close of the year 1852, I had not two pounds left, and about 330 persons were day by day to be provided for, with all they need, and prove whether it is now anything else than a work of faith? Every one, except those who are determined not to see, will have no difficulty in perceiving that now, as formerly, one could only be kept from being overwhelmed in such a position by looking day by day to the Lord, and that not merely for pecuniary supplies, but for help under the numberless difficulties, which continually are met with in such a work.
On account of the abundance which came in at the beginning of the year, together with what was received afterwards, there was not the least difficulty felt, in the way of means, for many weeks afterwards. Of the donations that came in from Jan. 5 to April 20, and which amounted altogether to 648l. 8s. 8 1/4 d., in 314 different sums, large and small, I will only mention the following: Jan. 25. From an aged Christian merchant at Clifton 50l.—From a Christian merchant in London 20l., on Feb. 11.
April 20. In the prospect of having to pay away yet about 500l, before the accounts are closed on May 26th, and having only 236l. in hand, I asked the Lord especially this evening, that He would be pleased to help me with means for the current expenses for the Orphans, for which I might have far more in hand had I not with all my might given myself to the Building Fund, in order to be soon able to commence the building of this second Orphan House. Now, this evening, I found that a donation of 100l. had come in at my house during my absence, the disposal of which was entirely left to me. I took not the whole of this donation for the current expenses for the Orphans, but only one half, and the other half for the Building Fund. The funds for the various Schools, for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts, and for missionary objects, need nothing for at least six weeks to come. This donation has greatly refreshed my spirit, especially as it came from a most unexpected quarter.
Before the accounts were closed, I received, between April 20th and May 26th, 1853, in just One Hundred different sums, 422l. 3s. 11 1/2 d. more, so that I was able amply to supply all demands, and had the balance of 117l. 10s. 9d. left in hand. It was chiefly through a donation of 260l., given to be employed as most needed, spoken of under the Building Fund Income on May 14th, 1853, of which I took 160l. for the Orphans, that we had so large an amount in hand. This donation was indescribably precious, as it not only, in conjunction with the other money which came in, carried me easily through all the expenses which absolutely needed to be met, and which were heavier than they ever had been during any month since the Orphan work had been in existence; but also enabled me to do things which were most desirable, though not absolutely needful.
How can I sufficiently praise, and adore, and magnify the Lord, for His love and faithfulness, in carrying me thus from year to year through this His service, supplying me with all I need in the way of means, fellow labourers, mental strength, and, above all, spiritual support! But for His help and support, I should be completely overpowered in a very short time; yet, by His help, I go on, and am very happy spiritually, in my service; nor am I now generally worse in health than I was twenty years ago, but rather better.
Miscellaneous Points respecting the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad, with reference to the period from May 26, 1852, to May 26, 1853.
1. During this period there were four Day Schools, with 235 children in them, entirely supported by the funds of the Institution. Further, one Sunday School in Bristol, with 150 children, was entirely supported, and three others in Devonshire, Somersetshire, and Gloucestershire, with 280 children, were assisted. Lastly, one Adult School, with 103 Adult Scholars, was entirely supported by the funds of the Institution. There were under our care, from March 5, 1884, to May 26, 1853, in the various Day Schools, 5686 children, in the Sunday School 2673 children, and in the Adult School 2132 persons. There was expended of the funds of the Institution, during this year, for the various Schools, 349l. 12s. 11d.
2. During thus year there was laid out of the funds of the Institution, on the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, 431l. 5s. 1 1/2 d., and there were circulated 1,666 Bibles and 1,210 New Testaments.—There were circulated from March 5, 1834, up to May 26, 1853, 10,476 Bibles, and 6.061 New Testaments.
For several years past this part of the work has appeared more and more important to me, on account of the fearful attempts which have been made by the powers of darkness to rob the church of Christ of the Holy Scriptures. I have on this account sought to embrace every opportunity to circulate the Holy Scriptures in England, Ireland, Canada, British Guiana, the East Indies, China, Australia, &c. Every open door which the Lord was pleased to set before me in these or other parts of the world, I have joyfully entered; yea, I have counted it a privilege, indeed, to be permitted of God to send forth His Holy Word. Many servants of Christ, in various parts of the world, have assisted me in this service, through whose instrumentality copies of the Holy Scriptures have been circulated. Our endeavour has been, to place the word of God in the hands of the very poorest persons, and also, in particular, to supply very aged persons with copies of the Scriptures, printed in large type, as such copies still remain expensive, considering the means of the poor. Nor have our efforts been in vain. For we had several cases of direct conversion, simply through circulating the Holy Scriptures, brought before us during this year. But we are fully assured, that the fruit which we have seen, as resulting from this part of the world, is but little in comparison with what we shall see in the day of Christ's appearing. The disciples of the Lord Jesus should labour with all their might in the work of God, as if everything depended upon their own exertions; and yet, having done so, they should not in the least trust in their labour and efforts, and in the means which they use for the spread of the truth, but in God; and they should with all earnestness seek the blessing of God, in persevering, patient, and believing prayer. Here is the great secret of success, my Christian Reader. Work with all your might; but trust not in the least in your work. Pray with all your might for the blessing of God; but work, at the same time, with all diligence, with all patience, with all perseverance. Pray then, and work. Work and pray. And still again pray, and then work. And so on all the days of your life. The result will surely be, abundant blessing. Whether you see much fruit or little fruit; such kind of service will be blessed. We should labour then, for instance, with all earnestness in seeking to circulate Thousands of copies of the Holy Scriptures, and Hundreds of Thousands of Tracts, as if everything depended upon the amount of copies of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts which we circulate; and yet, in reality, we should not in the least degree put our dependence upon the number of copies of the Holy Scriptures, and upon the number of Tracts, but entirely upon God for His blessing, without which all these efforts are entirely useless. This blessing, however, should be sought by us habitually and perseveringly in prayer. It should also be fully expected.
3. During this year there was spent of the funds of the Institution for missionary objects 2,234l. 2s. 6d. By this sum fifty-four labourers in the word and doctrine, in various pants of time world, were to a greater or less degree assisted.
During no period within the nineteen years previous to May 26, 1853, was so large a portion of the funds of the Institution expended, in one year, upon Missionary Objects, as during this year; and in every single case I was enabled to help to the full amount of what appeared desirable. Refreshing as this is, and thankful as we desire to be to the Lord for it; yet it were but a very little thing, had there not been corresponding results. But I have to record to the praise of the Lord, and to the enjoyment of the Christian Reader, that not five, nor ten, nor fifty souls only were won for Him through the instrumentality of these fifty-four dear brethren, but hundreds. I received a great number of letters from these labourers in the Word, both at home and abroad, which brought me heart-cheering intelligence. Thank the Lord for this together with me, dear Christian Reader, and continue to help these esteemed brethren with your prayers, some of whom labour for the Lord under peculiar difficulties.
I would repeat that I consider it a great privilege to be permitted to defray in part or altogether, from time funds of this Institution, the expenses connected with the voyage and outfit of brethren who desire to go out as Missionaries, or to help them after their arrival in their field of labour; but I do not bind myself to support them habitually, seeing that thus they would be out of the position of simple dependence upon God for their temporal supplies.
4. There was laid out for the circulation of Tracts, from May 26, 1852, to May 26, 1853, the sum of 555l. 16s. 7 1/2 d.; and there were circulated within this year 733,674 Tracts.
The total number of Tracts circulated up to May 26, 1853, was One
Million Eight Hundred Twenty Thousand and Forty.
The Lord is pleased to increase this part of the work more and more, as will be seen by a comparison of the years in which this part of the Institution has been in operation. From Nov. 19, 1840, to May 10, 1842, the first period that the circulation of Tracts was in operation in connexion with the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad, there were circulated 19,609 from May 10, 1842, to July 14, 1844, 39,473; from July 14, 1844, to May 26, 1846, 40,565; from May 26, 1846, to May 26, 1848, 64,021; from May 26, 1848, to May 26, 1850, 130,464; from May 26, 1850, to May 26, 1851, 303,098; from May 26, 1851, to May 26, 1852, 489,136; and during this period 733,674.
In these increased opportunities to spread the truth, we rejoice. Moreover, we would, by the help of God, seek to labour still far more abundantly in this particular also, and would seek to press into every open door, which the Lord may set before us. Yea, we would labour, as has been stated before, as if everything depended upon our diligence and carefulness in the use of the means; whilst, in reality, we would not depend upon them in the least degree, but only upon God for His blessing. This blessing of God we have been enabled to seek upon the labours of missionary brethren, the circulation of time Holy Scriptures, and upon the distribution of Tracts. As the days come, so our heart is drawn out in prayer for blessing upon these objects, in connexion with the various Schools and the Orphan Work. How, then, could it be otherwise, but that sooner or later there should come showers of blessing? Thus it was during this year. This year stands alone, in that more money came in, than during any year previously. It stands alone, in that the operations of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution were extended beyond whatever they mad been before. But it stands alone, also, in the abundant blessing, which God granted to our efforts, and which was greater than during any previous period. And, as in other respects, so in particular likewise, the gratuitous distribution of Tracts was abundantly owned of God. Instance upon instance, not 2, nor 5, nor 10, but many, in the way of conversion, and also of blessing to believers, was I informed of by those Godly brethren, who in various parts of the world, aid me in this service. How can I sufficiently magnify the Lord for this! By His grace I would desire to labour on, though I were not to see one single instance of blessing, being assured that "in due season we shall reap," and that our "labour is not in vain in the Lord;" yet how kind of the Lord, to grant such abundant blessing to rest upon our labours!
Often, I fear, Tract distributors have expected little result from their labour; and therefore they have seen little fruit. According to their expectation, they have received. Often, also, I fear, the mere distribution of Tracts has been rested in, and the work done has been estimated by the number of Tracts which were circulated, without earnestly preceding their circulation with prayer, and without earnestly following them with prayer, may I, therefore, be allowed to caution my fellow-believers on these two points? Look out for blessing, but seek also the blessing earnestly in prayer; and you will not fail to receive abundantly.
Should any believer be discouraged, because he has not had much fruit resulting from the circulation of Tracts, let such a one, with renewed earnestness and prayerfulness, go on in his work; let him also expect fruit, and he will surely reap abundantly; if not now, at least in the day of Christ's appearing.
5. At the beginning of this period, there were Three Hundred Orphans in the New Orphan-House on Ashley Down, Bristol. During the year there were admitted into it 13 Orphans, making 313 in all. Of these 313, (we own it with thankfulness to God,) not one died during the year; for not a single death occurred for about 15 months. One of the Orphans, who had been received after he had long had his own way, and who having long been borne with, and repeatedly been received back again on a confession of sorrow, at last ran away again, and had then to be placed by his relatives in the Union. One Orphan was sent to relatives, who were by that time able to care for her. Five girls were, at the expense of the Establishment, fitted out for service or learning a business, and were sent out;—also six boys were, at the expense of the Establishment, fitted out and apprenticed. Thus makes the number removed as great as the number received, so that there were still 300 Orphans in tire New Orphan-House on May 26, 1853. The total number of Orphans, who were under our care from April, 1836, to May 26, 1853, was Five Hundred and Twenty-eight.
I notice further the following points in connexion with the Orphan
Work.
a. Without any one having been personally applied to for anything by me, the sum of 55,408l. 17s. 5 3/4 d. was given to me for the Orphans, as the result of prayer to God, from the commencement of the work up to May 26, 1853.—It may be also interesting to the reader to know, that the total amount given for the other objects, from the commencement of the work up to May 26, 1853, amounted to 19,163l. 14s. 1 1/2 d.; and that which came in by the sale of Bibles and Tracts, and by the payments of the children in the Day Schools, amounted to 3,490l. 7s. 1 3/4 d.— Besides this, also a great variety and number of articles of clothing, furniture, provisions, &c., were given for the use of the Orphans.
b. Our labours continued to be blessed among the Orphans.
c. The expenses in connexion with the support of the 300 Orphans and the apprentices during this year, were 3,453l. 15s. 1 1/2 d.
Matters connected with my own personal affairs, or the work of the Lord in my hands, not immediately connected with the Scriptural Knowledge Institution, from May 26, 1852, to May 26, 1853.
Dec. 31, 1852. During this year 35 believers have been received into fellowship. When Brother Craik and I began to labour in the Word in Bristol, we found 68 in fellowship. Since then there have been received into communion altogether 1,403, so that the total number would be 1,471, had there been no changes. But 64 are under church discipline, and separated, for the present, from fellowship; 154 have left us (some of them, however, in love, and merely through circumstances); 421 have left Bristol to reside elsewhere; and 197 have fallen asleep. So that there are at present only 635 actually remaining in communion.
The Lord has been pleased to give unto me during this year—
1. Through believers in and out of Bristol, in provisions, clothes, etc., worth to us at least . . . . . 9 0 0
2. Through anonymous offerings in money, put up in paper and directed to me, and put into the boxes for the poor saints or the rent, at the chapels . 157 11 4 1/2
———
Carried forward L166 11 4 1/2
Brought forward L166 11 4 1/2
3. Through presents in money, from believers in Bristol, not given anonymously . . . . . . 121 5 2
4. Through presents in money, from believers not residing in Bristol . . 157 12 2
————
L445 8 8 1/2
My brother-in-law, Mr. A. N. Groves, of whom mention has been made in the first part of this Narrative, as having been helpful to me by his example when I began my labours in England in 1829, in that he, without any visible support, and without being connected with any missionary society, went with his wife and children to Bagdad, as a missionary, after having given up a lucrative practice of about 1500l. per year, returned in Autumn 1852, from the East Indies, a third time, being exceedingly ill. He lived, however, till May 20th, 1853, when, after a most blessed testimony for the Lord, he fell asleep in Jesus in my house. I should more fully dwell on this to myself amid my family's deeply important event, had not a very full biography been published by the widow of my dear brother-in-law, in which also full particulars are given of the last days of this servant of Christ. I therefore refer the reader to the deeply interesting memoir, which has been published at Nisbet's, London, and may be had at the Bible and Tract Warehouse of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad, 84, Park Street, Bristol, and through all booksellers, under the title: Memoir of the late Anthony Norris Groves, second edition, with a portrait, cloth, 4s. 6d.; fine paper, cloth, 6s. 6d.
Further account respecting the intended Orphan-House for Seven Hundred Children, bereaved of both parents by death, from May 26, 1853, to May 26, 1854.
In the last chapter on this subject I stated, that, on May 26, 1853, I had actually in hand, towards the accomplishment of my object, the sum of 12,531l. 12s. 0 1/4 d. I will now give some further particulars as to the manner in which it pleased the Lord to supply me with means, but must confine myself to those donations which more specially may call for notice.
June 28, 1853. From Wakefield 40l., with 5l. for Mr. Craik, and 5l. for my own personal expenses.—Also 220l. from the West of England, of which the donor kindly wishes me to take 20l. for my own private expenses, and to use the 200l. as might be most needed. I have taken, therefore, 100l. for the Building Fund; 60l. for missionary operations, the circulation of Bibles and Tracts; and 40l. for the Orphans.
July 14. Received 541l. 10s., which being left to me as most needed, I took 100l. for the current expenses for the Orphans, 100l. for the other objects, and 341l. 10s. for the Building Fund. Being just now in great family affliction, this kindness of the Lord has been a great refreshment to my spirit.
July 15. From Clifton 1s.—Received also 110l. from one who counts it an honour to have this sum to lay down at the feet of the Lord Jesus. I took of this amount 60l. for the Building Fund, and 50l. for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts, and for missionary objects.
I cannot help remarking here, that the Lord has used some of the most unlikely persons during the past twenty-two years, in providing me with means for His service. So it was particularly in the case of this brother in the Lord, from whom I received the last-mentioned donation of 110l. I had not the least natural expectation of receiving this sum, when this brother, sitting before me at the New Orphan-House, took out of his pocket a packet of Bank Notes, and gave to me this amount, reserving to himself, as his whole property in this world, a smaller sum than he gave to me, because of his joy in the Lord, and because of his being able to enter into the reality of his possessions in the world to come. I delight in dwelling upon such an instance, because 1, it shows that there is grace, much grace, to be found among the saints even now; 2, it shows the variety of instrumentality which the Lord is pleased to employ, in supplying me with means for His service; and 3, because it so manifestly proves that we do not wait upon Him in vain, when we make known our requests to Him for means.
July 20. From Philadelphia, in the United States, 5l.
Aug. 20. From the neighbourhood of Mallow in Ireland 17s. 6d, and 2s. 6d.—Anonymously from a "Brother Christian and Well-wisher," through his bankers in London, 100l.
Aug. 27. From Caistor 5s.—From Gumeracka, near Adelaide, Australia, 2l. 10s. From the same place 10s.—From Cheltenham 2s. 6d.—From Frampton-on-Severn seven silver coins.
You see, esteemed reader, how much variety there is in the kind of donations as well as in the amount, the places whence they are sent, and the friends who send them. But all these donations come from the living God. All come to us in answer to prayer, and are received by us as answers to prayer; and with every donation, however small, we receive thins a fresh encouragement, to continue in prayer, and have, as it were, another earnest from our Heavenly Father, that at last He not only will give larger sums, but the whole amount which is needed for the Building Fund. Every one of these donations comes unsolicited. Ever since the Orphan Work has been in operation, we have never asked any one for anything. Be therefore, dear reader, encouraged by this, to make trial for yourself, to prove the power of prayer, if you have never done so before.
Dec. 31. This is the last day of another year. Two years and a half I have new been day by day seeking the Lord's help in player for this object. He has also been pleased to give us many proofs, that He is remembering our requests, still as yet I have only 13,670l. 11s. 7 3/4 d. in hand. Considerably more than double this sum will be needed. But, by the grace of God, I am not discouraged. The Lord is able and willing to help us. This is my comfort. In His own time the Almighty God will manifest His power. In the meantime I desire to continue to wait upon Him, and to receive every fresh donation, however small, as an earnest, that in His own time He not only will give larger sums, but the whole amount needed for this object.
Jan. 17, 1854. This day I received the promise, that there should be paid to me, for the work of the Lord in my hands, 5,207l., to be disposed of as I might consider best.
This large donation was shortly after paid to me, and was portioned out thus: For the Building Fund 3000l.; for the support of the 300 Orphans 707l.; for foreign missions 500l.; for labourers in the Word in England, Ireland and Scotland 500l.; for the gratuitous circulation of the Holy Scriptures among the poor 200l.; for the gratuitous circulation of Gospel Tracts 200l.; and for the various schools, supported or assisted by the Funds of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution, 100l.
Behold, esteemed reader, the goodness of God! Behold also the recompense, which sooner or hater, the Lord gives to His children, who wait upon Him and trust in Him Often it may appear that we wait upon the Lord in vain; but, in His own time God will abundantly prove, that it was not in vain. Go on therefore, Christian reader, to wait upon the Lord. Continue to make known your requests to Him; but do also expect help from Him. You honour God, by believing that He does hear your prayers, and that He will answer them.
The joy which such answers to prayer give, cannot be described; and the impetus which they thus afford to the spiritual life is exceedingly great. The experience of this happiness I desire for all my Christian readers. Nor is there anything to hinder any believer from having these joys. If you believe indeed in the Lord Jesus for the salvation of your soul, if you walk uprightly and do not regard iniquity in your heart, if you continue to wait patiently, and believingly upon God; then answers will surely be given to your prayers. You may not be called upon to serve the Lord in the way the writer does, and therefore may never have answers to prayer respecting such things as are recorded here; but in your various circumstances, as to your family, your business, your profession, your church position, your labour for the Lord inn army way, you may have answers as distinct as any here recorded.
Should this, however, be read by any who are not believers in the Lord Jesus, but any who are going on in the carelessness or self-righteousness of their unrenewed hearts, then I would affectionately and solemnly beseech such, first of all to be reconciled to God by faith in the Lord Jesus. You are sinners. You deserve punishment. If you do not see this, ask God to show it unto you. Let this now be your first and especial prayer. Ask Him also to enlighten you not merely concerning your state by nature, but especially to reveal the Lord Jesus to your hearts. God sent Him, that He might bear the punishment, due to us guilty sinners. God accepts the obedience and sufferings of the Lord Jesus, in the room of those who depend upon Him for the salvation of their souls; and the moment a sinner believes in the Lord Jesus, he obtains the forgiveness of all his sins. When thus he is reconciled to God, by faith in the Lord Jesus, and has obtained the forgiveness of his sins, he has boldness to enter into the presence of God, to make known his requests unto God; and the more he is enabled to realize, that his sins are forgiven, and that God, for Christ's sake, is well pleased with those who believe on Him, the more ready he will be to come with all his wants, both temporal and spiritual, to his Heavenly Father, that He may supply them. But as long as the consciousness of unpardoned guilt remains, so long shall we be kept at a distance from God, and especially also as it regards prayer. Therefore, dear reader, if you are an unforgiven sinner, let your first and especial subject of your prayer be, that God would be pleased to reveal to your heart the Lord Jesus, His beloved Son.
March 5. To day it is twenty years since the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad made its beginning. When I look back upon that day, with reference to this work, I desire with gratitude to exclaim, What has God wrought! His name be magnified for it! I desire to take courage from all His former goodness, and to go on in His service.
March 6. Received 131l. 1s. 3d., which being left at my disposal, I took 31l. 1s. 3d. for the Building Fund, and 100l. for the support of the Orphans.—Through Bethesda boxes, as a thank-offering for the mercies of the past month, 2s. 6d.
April 22. From London, six knives, nine silver forks, three silver table spoons, three silver dessert spoons, three silver tea spoons, one silver salt spoon, a silver pencil case, three penholders, one mounted in silver and two in gold, and a penknife.
May. 3. Anonymously, through banker's in London, 100l.—May 8. Through Bethesda homes, 2s. 6d., as "A thank-offering to the Lord for the mercies of the past month."
Month after month, for some time past, 2s. 6d. has been given as "A thank-offering for the mercies of the past month," I am delighted with this. Not yearly only may the saints bring their offerings to the Lord, as He may have prospered them, but monthly. Yea the Holy Ghost, by the Apostle Paul, gives this exhortation to the believers of the Church at Corinth, concerning offerings for the poor saints; "Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him." I Cor. xvi. 2. As the Lord had prospered them, so were they not merely yearly, or monthly, but even weekly to contribute to the support of the poor. We are strangers and pilgrims on the earth. The time of our pilgrimage here is very uncertain. The opportunities which the Lord gives us for His service are therefore readily to be embraced. All here below is most uncertain. How long we may have the opportunity to work for the Lord, who can tell? Therefore the present hour is to be used with all our might. As an encouragement for all this, we have to look to the return of our Lord Jesus.
May 26. 82l. 18s. 4d., being the proceeds arising from the sale of a work published in English, and 14s. 3d., from the sale of a work published in French, were given for the Building Fund.
Thus closes the period from May 26, 1853, to May 26, 1854. The whole income for this object during the year was 5,285l. 7s. 5d., which, together with the 12,531l. 12s. 0 1/4 d. in hand on May 26, 1853, made the total of 17,816l. 12s. 5 1/4 d. in hand on May 26, 1854.
I add the following remarks, with reference to the intended Orphan House for 700 Orphans, which appeared in the Report for 1854, and which are here reprinted.
A. During this year the current expenses, for the various Objects of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad, amounted to 7,507l. 0s. 11 1/2 d., being 471l. 8s, 11d. more than during any previous year; yet the Lord not only enabled me to meet them all, but to add the sum of 5,285l. 7s, 5d. to the Building Fund.
B. There is yet a large sum required, before I shall be enabled to build another house for 700 Orphans; nor have I now, any more than at the first, any natural prospect of obtaining what is yet needed; but my hope is in the living God. When I came to the conclusion that it was the will of God I should build another Orphan House, I had not only no natural prospect of obtaining the 35,000l. which would be needed for thus object, but also no natural prospect of being able to provide for the necessities of the 300 Orphans already under my care. Three years have elapsed since then, and I have had all I needed for them, amounting to about 10,500l., and 17,816l. 19s. 5 1/4 d. I have received for the Building Fund. May I not well trust in the Lord, for what is yet needed for the Building Fund? By His grace I will do so, and delight in doing so; for I know that at last all my prayers will be turned into praises concerning this part of the service.
C. There is one point which is particularly an encouragement to me, to go on waiting upon the Lord for the remainder of the means, which are required, viz.: applications for the admission of Orphans continue to be made. On May 26, 1858, there were 480 Orphans waiting for admission. Since then 181 more have been applied for, making in all 661. Of these, however, thirty have been admitted during the past year into the New Orphan-House, and twenty-nine have been otherwise provided for, so that there are actually 602 waiting for admission. These children are from three months old and upwards, and all bereaved of both parents by death.
Supplies for the School —, Bible—, Missionary and Tract fund, sent in answer to prayer, from May 26, 1853, to May 26, 1854.
On May 26, 1853, there was left in hand for these objects a balance of 67l. 17s. 7 3/4 d.
June 13. When I had very little in hand, comparatively, there being about 30l. left, as little only had come in since May 26th, I received a donation of 301l., of which I took 201l. for the support of the Orphans, and 100l. for these objects. How much is there needed, to go on with all these various objects, and to press into every open door, which the Lord may set before me! How kind, therefore, of Him, to have sent me this sum!
July 14. Only about 150l. had come in for these objects since June 18. But though I had not much in hand, I sent out 65l. on the 11th, three days since, for missionary objects, being assured that the sowing would bring the reaping. On the very next day, July 12th, I received from Chelsea 5l. and also 10s. From the north of Devon 10l. Anonymously 5l. From Norwich, for foreign missions, 5l. The day after that, July 13th, I received from the neighbourhood of Leeds 10l., and from Oakhill 1s. Now today I received the 541l. 10s., spoken of under the Building Fund, of which I took for these objects 100l.
July 15. Today the Lord has been pleased to give still more. I have received 20l. for the Schools and 50l. for these various objects.
Sept. 15. During the last two days I sent out 85l. to brethren who labour in the Word at home and abroad; and during the first half of this month have already sent to them 174l. During the last two days, whilst sending out almost the last pound in hand for missionary objects, I felt quite comfortable in doing so, and said to myself: "The Lord can give mc more." So it has been. This morning I have received from Weston Super Mare, in a registered letter, 100l. with these words: "The enclosed 100l. for missionaries to the heathen, from H. E. H., Western Super Mare, Sept, 14th." This is particularly refreshing to me, as I desired still to send out during this month about 200l. to other brethren.
Oct. 15. During the last six weeks little only, comparatively, has been received for these objects; but I have sent out much for missionary objects, and for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts. Thus the funds for these various objects were this morning reduced to 29l. 15s. 6 1/4 d. Yet my heart desired to send out, before the close of this month, a considerable amount to preachers of the Gospel, and to spend further sums on the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Gospel Tracts. This my desire has been in a measure already granted, for I received this morning 192l. 1s. Of this sum I took 100l. for these objects, and the remainder for the current expenses for the Orphans. The Lord be magnified for this kindness! There was also much need for fresh supplies for the Orphans, when this donation was received. With more than usual exercise of faith and patience have I had to wait upon God for the last four weeks, during which time the income has been very little and the outgoing very great.
Dec. 8. Today I received three autographs of King William IV., one of Sir Robert Peel, and two of Lord Melbourne (with six postage stamps), to be sold for the funds of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution.—See what a variety of donations the Lord sends us for the support of the work!
Dec. 11. For several years I have not been so poor for these objects, as during the last six weeks. Day by day have I besought the Lord for more means, and almost daily has He also sent in something; yet the income has not been adequate to help the 56 brethren, whom I seek to assist as preachers of the Word at home and abroad, in the measure I have desired. I had reason to believe, that several were in need, but I had nothing to send to them, and could only labour on in prayer, finding relief in the knowledge that God could help them irrespective of my instrumentality, and make this their trial of faith and patience a blessing to their souls, even as I have found this season profitable to myself. But now at the last the Lord has refreshed my spirit exceedingly, by a donation of 300l., left at my disposal; of which I have taken 150l. for these objects, and 150l. for the Orphans, for whom also fresh supplies were greatly needed, so much so, that we had not once been so poor since the New Orphan-House was first opened.
Jan. 17, 1854. Received from an anonymous donor, through London bankers, a Bank Post Bill for 50l. "for general purposes." I took of this amount one half for these various objects, and the other half for the benefit of the Orphans. This donation came at a time of great need.
But the Lord helped me still mere bountifully; for I received also, on that day, the promise of the donation of 5,207l., spoken of already under the Building Fund, and of which donation I took for these objects altogether 1,500l. whereby I was so abundantly helped, that, with what the Lord was pleased to send in besides for these objects, up to May 26, 1854, I was enabled to meet all their many and heavy expenses.
The following circumstance is so remarkable, that I give it at full length as an illustration of the various ways, and the remarkable manner, in which the Lord is pleased, in answer to prayer, to supply me with means.
On Aug. 9th, 1853, I received a letter, from a Christian brother, accompanied by an order for 88l. 2s. 6d. on his bankers, of which 3l. 2s, 6d. were the proceeds of an Orphan-Box in a meeting place of believers, and 85l. from a poor widow, who had sold her little house, being all her property, and who had put 90l., the total amount she had received, into that Orphan-Box two months before, on June 9, 1853. In this box the money remained till it was opened, and then the 90l., with a few lines, without name, were found in it. As, however, the fact of her intending to sell the house, and sending me the money, for the Lord's work, had been known to the brother, who sent me the money, he did not feel free to send it to me, without remonstrating with her through two brethren, whom he sent with the money, offering it again to her; for he knew her to be very poor, and feared that this might be an act of excitement, and therefore be regretted afterwards. These brethren could not prevail on her to receive back the money, but they did persuade her to receive back 5l. of the amount, and then the brother, referred to, felt no longer free to keep the money from me, but sent me the 85l.
On the receipt of this I wrote at once to the poor Godly widow, offering her the traveling expenses for coming to Bristol, that I might have personal intercourse with her; for I feared lest this should be an act of excitement, and the more so, as she had received back 5l. of the sum. This sister in the Lord, a widow of about 60 years of age, came to Bristol, and told me in all simplicity how ten years before, in the year 1843, she had purposed that, if ever she should come into the possession of the little house in which she lived with her husband, she would sell it, and give the proceeds to the Lord. About five years afterwards her husband died, and she, having no children, nor any particular claim upon her, then sought to dispose of her little property. However one difficulty after the other prevented her being able to effect a sale. At last she felt in particular difficulty on account of her inability to pay the yearly ground rent of the house and garden, and she asked the Lord to enable her to sell the property, in order that she might be able to carry out her desire, which she had had for ten years. He now helped her; the house was sold, the money paid, and she put the whole 90l. into the Orphan Box for me, being assured that the Lord would direct me how best the money might be used for Him.—I still questioned her again and again to find out, whether it was not excitement which had led her to act as she had done; but I not only saw that her mind had been fully decided about this act for ten years before, but that she was also able to answer from the word of God all the objections which I purposely made, in order to probe her, whether she had intelligently and from right motives acted in what she had done. At last, being fully satisfied that it was not from impulse nor under excitement that she had given the money, I stated to her something like this: "You are poor, about sixty years old, and therefore decreasing in strength, may you not therefore keep this money for yourself?" Her reply was: "God has always provided for me, and I have no doubt He will do so in future also. I am able to work and to earn my bread as well as others, and am willing to work as a nurse, or in any other way." What could I say against this? This was just what a child of God would say, and should say.—But the greatest of all the difficulties about accepting the 85l. remained in my mind. It was this. The house had been sold for 90l. The whole amount had been put into the box, but, on the persuasion of the two brethren who were requested to remonstrate with this widow, she had been induced to take back 5l. out of the 90l. I therefore said to myself, might she not be willing, after a time, to take back the whole 90l., how therefore can I feel happy in accepting this money. On this account I particularly laid stress upon this point, and now learned the circumstances under which she had been induced to take back this 5l.
The two brethren who had called for the purpose of pointing out the propriety of receiving back again the 90l., or part of it, told her that Barnabas sold his land, but afterwards lived with others on that which he and others had thrown into the common stock, and that therefore she might receive at least part of the 90l. back again, if she would not take the whole. She then said to herself that, "as a child of God she might take the children's portion," and, as she had given to God this 90l., she might receive 5l. back again. She told me, that she considered the brethren had shown her from the Holy Scriptures what she might do, and therefore she had taken this 5l. I did not myself agree with the judgment of those brethren who had said this (as there is no evidence that Barnabas ever was supported out of the common stock, the proceeds of the sale of houses and lands, out of which the poor were supported); but I purposely said nothing to the widow, lest she should at once be induced to give me this 5l. also. She had, however, this 5l. untouched, and showed it to me; and before leaving she would make me take 1l. of it for the benefit of the Orphans, which I did not refuse, as I had no intention to keep the 85l. She also gave me a sixpence for the Orphans, which some one had given her for herself, a few days before.
I now asked her, as this matter concerning the remaining of the 5l. was satisfactorily explained, as far as it respected her own state of heart, what she wished me to do with the money, in case I saw it right to keep it. Her reply was, that she would leave that with me, and God would direct me concerning it; but that, if she said any thing at all, she should most like it to be used for the support of brethren who labour in the Word without salary, and who hazard their lives for the name of Christ. She wished me to have a part of the money; but this I flatly refused, lest I should be evil spoken of in this matter. I then offered to pay her traveling expenses, as she had come to me, which she would not accept, as she did not stand in need of it. In conclusion I told her, that I would now further pray respecting this matter, and consider what to do concerning it. I then prayed with this dear Godly woman, commended her to God, separated from her, and have not seen her since.
I waited from Aug. 9, 1853, to March 7, 1854, when I wrote to her, offering her back again the whole 85l., or a part of it. On March 9, 1854, just seven months after I had received the money, amid just nine months after she had actually given it, and ten years and nine months after she had made the resolution to give her house and garden to God, I heard from her, stating that she was of the same mind as she had been for years. I, therefore, disposed of the money, to aid such foreign missionary brethren as, according to the best my knowledge resembled most the class of men whom she wished to assist.
The reasons, why I have so minutely dwelt upon this circumstance, are: 1, If, as a steward of the bounties of the children of God, I should be blamed for receiving from a poor widow almost literally her all, it may be seen in what manner I did so. To have refused, on March 9, 1854, also would be going beyond what I should be warranted to do. 2, I desired also to give a practical illustration, that I only desire donations in God's way. It is not the money only, I desire; but money received, in answer to prayer, in God's order. 3, This circumstance illustrates how God helps me often in the most unexpected manner. 4, I have also related this instance, as a fresh proof, that even in these last days the love of Christ is of constraining power, and may work mightily, as in the days of the Apostles. I have witnessed many such instances as this, during the twenty years I have been occupied in this my service. Let us give thanks to God for such cases, and seek for grace rather to imitate such Godly men and women than think that they are going too far.
I cannot, however, dismiss this subject, without commending this poor widow to the prayers of all who love our Lord Jesus, that she may be kept humble, lest, thinking highly of herself, on account of what she has been enabled to do, by the grace of God, she should not only lose blessing in her own soul, but this circumstance should become a snare to her. Pray also, believing Reader, that she may never be allowed to regret what she has done for the Lord.
May 23. Yesterday I looked over the list of the 56 labourers in the Word, whom I seek to assist, in order to see to whom it would be desirable to send help; and, having drawn out a list, with the respective amounts for each, I found that it would be desirable to send out this week 327l., but I wanted at least 50l. more, to be able to accomplish this. Accordingly I gave myself to prayer, if it might please the Lord to send me the means. And now, this morning, in answer to prayer, I received anonymously from bankers in London 100l., which the donor desired to be applied for the current expenses for the Orphans, and for labourers in the Gospel at Home and Abroad. I took therefore 50l. for the Orphans, and 50l. for home and foreign labourers.
By the same post I received also from the neighbourhood of Shrewsbury 10l., the disposal of which being left to me, I took for missionary objects.—I have now the desire of my heart granted, being able to send out the full amount of what it yesterday appeared to me desirable that I should send to the brethren whom I seek to help.
Means for the support of the 300 Orphans, already under our care, sent in answer to prayer, from May 26, 1853, to May 26, 1854.
At the commencement of this period, there was in hand the balance of 117l. 10s. 9d. This was the visible support, in the way of pecuniary means, which we had to look to for 320 inmates in the New Orphan House, whilst often two or three days might call for such an amount as this. But we hoped in God, as in former years, and, by His grace, were upheld, and our faith was not allowed to fail, though it was not a little tried, as the following pages will show.
Of the donations which came in between May 26, and June. 13, 1853, I will only mention the following. On June 1st I received from Cape Town 2l. for the Orphans, and 3l. for tracts. On June 8th I received from Rhode Island, United States, 20 dollars and 5 dollars (4l. 15s. 9d. English), when I had scarcely anything left for the Orphans. Observe, dear Reader, from Africa and from America the Lord sends help to us, yea from almost all parts of the world. Thus is He saying to us more and more; "Only believe." On June 10th I received 5l. from a brother in the Lord at a distance, as a thank-offering to God, that, having been thrown from his horse, he had not been killed, but only greatly hurt.
June. 13. We were now very poor. Not indeed in debt, nor was even all the money gone; for there was still about 12l. in hand; but then there needed to be bought flour, of which we buy generally 10 sacks at a tine, 300 stones of oatmeal, 4 cwt. of soap, and there were many little repairs going on in the house, with a number of workmen, besides the regular current expenses of about 70l. per week. Over and above all this, on Saturday, the day before yesterday, I found that the heating apparatus needed to be repaired, which would cost in all probability 25l. It was therefore desirable, humanly speaking, to have 100l. for these heavy extra expenses, besides means for the current expenses. But I had no human prospect whatever of getting even 100 Pence, much less 100l. In addition to this, today was Monday, when generally the income is little. But, in walking to the Orphan House this morning, and praying as I went, I particularly told the Lord in prayer, that on this day, though Monday, He could send me much. And thus it was. I received this morning 301l. for the Lord's service, as might be most needed.—The joy which I had cannot be described. I walked up and down in my room for a long time, tears of joy and gratitude to the Lord running plentifully over my cheeks, praising and magnifying the Lord for His goodness, and surrendering myself afresh, with all my heart, to Him for His blessed service. I scarcely ever felt more the kindness of the Lord in helping me.—I took of this money 201l., for the current expenses for the Orphans, and 100l. for missionary objects, the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Gospel Tracts, and for the various Schools.
Of the donations which came in between June 13th and Aug. 31st, amounting to more than 600l., I will only mention: 50l., through a most unexpected circumstance, from Glasgow, on June 29th. 2l. from Sunderland on July 23rd, of which 1l was made up, by an individual putting by one half-penny daily for the Orphans, and a poor widow one penny per week. — On Aug. 19th I received from a Christian Negro in Demerara an old silver watch, a gold pin and brooch, and Five Dollars.
Aug. 31. When there was less than 20l. in, hand, I received today a donation of 220l., of which the donor kindly wished me to take 20l. for my own personal expenses, and to use the other for the work of the Lord as most needed. I therefore took 150l. for the Orphans, and 50l. for the other objects, and was thus enabled to advance today 30l., as usual, for the house-keeping expenses; money being called for, which, otherwise, I should not have been able to supply.
Of the donations received between Aug. 31st and Oct. 24th, amounting to about 550l., I only notice 2l. 7s. 6d. "From South Africa," 1l. from Malta, and 6s. 4d. from Demerara.
I will now minutely relate the Lord's dealings with us, with reference to meeting the expenses for the 300 Orphans, for about three weeks, as a specimen of how the Lord was pleased to help us during a period when the flour was twice as dear as for several years before, and when other expenses were much greater than usual.
Oct. 24. This afternoon I was called on to advance more house-keeping money; but as I had only about 26l. altogether in hand, I could only give 20l. this time, instead of the usual 30l. I had then about 6l. left for all the many other expenses, large and small, connected with the Establishment, and which are not included in the ordinary house-keeping expenses. Before the day is over, I have received this evening the following amounts Through Salem boxes 1s. By sale of Reports 5s. 1d. with 10s. as a donation. Both sums from Waterford.—From a donor in Bristol 1l.—From Bayswater 5l.
Oct. 25. From an Orphan-box in Bristol 4s.—From Warminster 1l. 1s. — From Seven Oaks 1l.1s. 6d. This was an old debt, owed for a long time to the donor. He expressed in prayer that, if the Lord would cause the money to be paid, it should be sent to me; and almost immediately afterwards it was paid.—From Durham 12l., being a dividend on shares in gas-works.—From Braunton 5s.—From Balham Hill, London, 1l. 10s., with a variety of articles to be sold for the benefit of the Orphans.—By sale of Reports 2s.
Oct. 26. From Keswick 7s. 6d., 2s. 6d., 1s. 6d., and 3s.—By sale of Reports 1l. 2s. 11 1/2 d.—By sale of some silver coins, a few tea spoons, and a few trinkets 5l.—By sale of Reports 9s.—There was found in the visitor's room at the New Orphan House a four-penny piece.—Through the boxes in the New Orphan House 4l. 14s. This afternoon was the time in the week when visitors see the establishment. It was a wet afternoon, but still above 60 persons went over the house. Being in great need of means, of which the visitors, however, could perceive nothing, as all our stores were full as usual, I asked the Lord, that He would be pleased to put it into their hearts to put money into the boxes: and this sum I found in them this evening.—Yesterday it was necessary to purchase ten sacks of flout, which, being just now twice as dear as darning the last years, cost 27l. 10s.; and this day it was needful to spend 8l. 1s. 2d. for smith's work. How kind, therefore, of the Lord to have sent me today, yesterday, and the afternoon of the day before yesterday, 34l. 11s, 4 1/2 d. Thus, with the 6l. left before, I am able to meet these two items of above 35l., and have about 5l. left.
Now observe how the Lord further helped, when I had only Five Pounds left.
Oct. 27. By sale of Reports 3s.—From West Brixton 5s., and 5s. from
Scotland.—Through a box in the New Orphan House 6d.—By sale of a
Report 6d.
Oct. 28. "From Friends of Petersham" 1l. 2s. 6d., and from Richmond 7s.
6d.—From the neighbourhood of Stourbridge. 1l.—From Wells 3s.
— From a clergyman at Weston-super-Mare 5l.—Anonymously from
Scotland 6d.—From a brother in the Lord 1l., with two pewter plates.
— From Clifton 10s.—From Hackney 1s.
Oct. 29. From Chilton Polden 5s., as "A thank-offering that the donor's children have not been left Orphans."—From Kingsbridge 5s. 6d.—From Glasgow 7s. 6d.—By sale of articles and Reports 2l. 10s.—From Royston 1l.
Oct. 30. From Lichfield 2s. 6d. and 3s. 8d.—From a medical gentleman in Bristol 1l.—From Clifton 3s.
Oct. 31. This afternoon more money was required for house-keeping. By the donations which had come in since the 27th, I was able to pay away 7l. 13s., and 1l. 2s., and had 12l. 17s, 2d. besides. This I gave to the last penny for house-keeping, and had now literally not one penny left in hand for the current expenses for the Orphans.
This evening I received, when I had nothing in hand: from Clifton 1l. — From a sister in the Lord in Bristol 2s. 6d.—Through Bethesda boxes 5s., "from servants in Scotland,"—From Wiveliscombe 1l.— From Clifton 10s.—Through the Chapel boxes 2s.—A pair of silver-mounted spectacles and 2s. 6d. from Clifton.
Nov. 1. By means of those little sums, which came in last evening, I was able to let the matron have further 2l. 17s. early this morning. Thus we were able to meet this day's demands. There came in further today: By sale of old clothes 6s. 4d., and from Launceston, by sale of Reports, 7s. 6d.—There was put into the letter box at my house anonymously, 1s. 6d., with these words: "I had worked hard for this money, and could not get paid. A thought passed lately through my mind, if I ever get it, I will devote it to some charitable purpose. To my surprise, without asking for it, it is paid. I now send it for the Orphans."—Evening. By sale of Reports 3s.—From Spaldwick 2s. 6d. and 1s.—From the neighbourhood of Arundel 11s. 6d.
Nov. 2. From Hull 5s.—From Knapp 1s.—From Gosport 2l.—From six servants at Hampton Court Palace, a parcel, containing a variety of articles, for the use of the Orphans, or to be sold for their benefit, with 4s. —Through the boxes in the New Orphan House 1l. 16s. 5 1/2 d. Given also by a visitor from Cornwall 10s., Ditto by another 10s., Ditto by another 2s. 6d., Ditto by another 1s.—By sale of Reports 6s.— I was thus further able to advance last evening for house-keeping expenses 1l. 0s. 4d., this morning 3l. 1s., and this evening 3l. 12s. 11 1/2 d. Thus, though we are living by the day, as it respects supplies out of the hands of our Heavenly Father, yet we have lacked nothing!
Received further 12s. by sale of Reports.
Nov. 3. From Helensburgh 2s. and 6d.—From Bideford 12s.—From Islington 2l.—From Clifton Park 5l.—By sale of some books 3l. — From a donor in Bristol 5l. From Norwich 5s.—Thus we have wherewith to meet the expenses for today and tomorrow, and, it may be, of the day after tomorrow. At all events, before this is gone, the faithful Lord will send in more.
Nov. 4. By sale of old clothes 11s. 2 1/2 d.—From Whitby 1l. Ditto 5s.—From Bodmin 1s.—By sale of rags 7s. 3d. [I transcribe from the Income book. We think it right to turn every thing to account, so that nothing be wasted, and that the expenses of the Institution be not needlessly increased.]
Nov. 5. From Swansea 5s.—From Willenhall 5s.—From Bridgewater 5s.—From Worcester 5s. and 1s.—Evening, Saturday. Thus we have had during another week everything needed.
Nov. 7. There came in yesterday 1s. from Stafford, and 3s. from Worksop. — To day from Kilkenny 1l.—When I had nothing at all in hand, having paid out the last money today, and when more would be needed this evening or tomorrow morning, I received this afternoon, from a most unexpected quarter, 6l. This morning the matron had between 11l, and 12l. in hand for house-keeping expenses, but, by the time I arrived at the New Orphan House, it had all been expended through unexpected demands, so that she had had to add half a crown of her own. I had received, however, this morning, at the very time while I was in prayer for means, 1l. from Kilkenny, which, with, 9s. 3 1/2 d. besides, in hand, I gave to her. Now this afternoon came in the 6l., and we have thus a manifest answer to prayer. The Lord be magnified.—Evening. Through Salem boxes 1s. Through Bethesda boxes 2s. 6d. Do. 6d. From P. 2s. 6d.
Nov. 8. From Guildford 1l. 1s.
Nov. 9. By sale of Reports 3s. 6d.—From Clonmell 9s. 5d.—Our need of means is great, very great. The Lord tries our faith and patience. This afternoon, a brother and sister in the Lord, from Gloucestershire, called to see mc at the New Orphan House, before going through the house. After a few minutes I received from the sister a sovereign, which she had been requested to bring to me for the Building Fund, and she gave mc from herself 1l. for my own personal expenses, and 1l. for tine Building Fund, and her husband gave me 5l. for the Orphans, and 5l. for Foreign Missions. Thus the Lord has refreshed my spirit greatly; but I look for more, and need much more.—Evening. By sale of Reports 13s. 2d. By the boxes in the New Orphan House 3l. 1s. 10 1/2 d. I received also this evening from Walmer 10l., of which the donor kindly wished 2l. to be used for the personal expenses of my family, and the rest for missionary work and the support of the Orphans. I took therefore one half for missions, and the other half for the Orphans.
Nov. 10. From Oakhill 5s.—By sale of Reports 15s. 10d.—From
Swansea 10s., 4s., and 6s.—From Anglesey 5s. and 2s. 6d.—From
Bath 2l.
Nov. 11. Anonymously from Banbury 1l.
Nov. 12. From Bideford 1l.—From Perth 1l. This evening, while praying for means, came a little parcel, containing Ten Sovereigns, from a Christian lady, living not far frown the New Orphan House. This was a very great refreshment to my spirit. Also from Clydach 10s. and 1s.
Nov. 13. Further precious help. Received this morning through Bankers in London, an anonymous donation of 50l. in a Bank Post Bill, with the words: "To be applied to general purposes; to be used as you may judge best." I took therefore the whole of this donation for the current expenses of the Orphans. A most welcome and refreshing donation, the fruit of many prayers, as just now the expenses are very great, and there were no means in hand to meet them! From Clifton 16s. 5d. From Easton 5l.
Nov. 14. From Melton Mowbray 2s. By sale of Reports 1s.—From Norwich 2s. 6d. Ditto 2s. 6d.—From Kingsbridge two brooches—Through the boxes at Bethesda 1s.—From Clevedon 1l.—From F. E. B. 2s. 6d.
Nov. 15. Anonymously from Nottingham 10s.—From Cheltenham 5l.— From the Isle of Wight 10s.—This evening I received from a Christian lady a brooch set with amethysts, another brooch set with eight brilliants and six other small diamonds, and a small gold necklace. My heart was exceedingly refreshed by this donation, not only because we arc still in need of supplies on account of our heavy daily expenses just now; but also because this valuable donation consists of articles which the Christian donor can spare, without the slightest inconvenience.
Nov. 16. Anonymously in postages 3s. 6d.—From London 10l., with 5l. for my own expenses.—By sale of Reports 7s.—Left by a visitor from Aberdeen, at the New Orphan House 10s. Through the boxes at the New Orphan House 2l. 11s. 6 1/2 d.—From South Brent 1s. 6d.
I have thus given, minutely, the manner in which the Lord was pleased, for 24 days in succession to supply us with means for the Orphans, from which the spiritual reader may easily perceive our position. Thus it was with us not merely during the 24 days of which I have now given the history, but also to a greater or less degree at other times during this year. But I refrain from giving minutely the account of every day, for the sake of brevity.
The particular end, why I have been so minute, is to show that the work is now, as much as ever, a work carried on entirely in dependence upon the Living God, who alone is our hope, and to whom alone we look for help, and who never has forsaken us in the hour of need. There is, however, one thing different with reference to this year, when compared with former years, and that is, that, while our trials of faith during this year were just as great as in previous years, the amount needed in former times was never so great as during this year, especially as the bread during the greater part of this year was about twice as dear as for several years before.
But then, it may be said, if you have had this trial of faith, with these 300 Orphans, why do you seek to build another Orphan House for 700 more, and thus have a thousand to care for? Will you not have still greater trials of faith?
My reply is: 1, God has never failed me all the 20 years of this my service. 2, I am going on as easily now, with 300 Orphans, as with 30, the number with which I commenced. Their number is ten times as large, as it was at the first; but God has always helped me. 3, Trials of faith were anticipated, yea were one chief end of the work, for the profit of the Church of Christ at large. 4, I had courage given me to go forward, solely in dependence upon God, being assured that He would help me; yet I waited in secret upon Him for six months, before I made this my intention known, in order that I might not take a hasty step; and have never regretted having gone forward. 5, But it needs to be added, that the very abundance which the Lord gave me at the time, when my mind was exercised about this matter, was a great confirmation to me, that I had not mistaken His mind. And even during this year, how great has been His help; for the income for the work altogether has been 12,785l. 15s. 7 1/4 d. I am therefore assured that the Lord will, in His own time, not only allow me to build another Orphan House, but that He will also, when He shall have been pleased to fill it, find the means to provide for these children.
I give now a brief reference to some of the more remarkable donations which came in between Nov. 16, 1853, and May 26, 1854.
Jan. 1, 1854. Received three old guinea pieces, with the following words: "The enclosed has been too long held in reserve, as an esteemed memento from a dear departed parent (for which may the Lord grant a pardon). A conviction of its wrong overpowers the natural desire, of its being retained, and not expended to the glory of God: for which purpose it is now sent to dear Mr. Mueller, as a new year offering, to be used in the way he thinks most conducive to the same,"—In this instance I had a double answer to prayer; for we were not only much in need of means, when the donation came in, but I had also again and again asked the Lord to incline the hearts of His dear children to send me their jewellery, their old gold and silver coins, and other valuable, but needless, articles, to be turned into money for the work of the Lord.
Jan. 17. Memorable day. Today, in much need, was received from Glasgow 10l., with 10l. for Mr. Craik, and 10l. for my own personal expenses. — There came in also, a Bank Post Bill for 50l., anonymously, through London Bankers, which amount was taken half for the Orphans and half for the other objects.—Likewise from Stroud 10s.—From Reading 6s. 3d.—From Gloucester 2s. 6d.—But the Lord over and above all this, allowed me to have this day the promise of that large donation which has been spoken of under the Building Fund, of which 707l. was taken towards the support of the Orphans, by which, together with 1,119l. 8s. 2 1/2 d. which came in for the support of the Orphans from Jan. 17 up to May 26, 1854, we were helped to the close of this period.
March 1. There was left to me, for the benefit of the Orphans, a year ago, by an individual in Bristol, whom I had never seen, a legacy of 100l., which was paid this day, less 10l. legacy duty.
April 9. This morning I received from an anonymous donor, through Bankers in London, a Bank Post Bill for 50l., the application of which was left to me. I took the whole of it for the support of the Orphans. This donation has been a great spiritual refreshment to me, as the expenses for the Orphans are now so very great, and as for five weeks no large sums have come in.
April 17. Received 150l., of which the donor kindly wished me to take 20l. for my own personal expenses, and to use the rest as might be most needed for the Lord's work in my hands. I took, therefore, 100l. for the current expenses for the Orphans, and 30l. for the other Objects. — This donation has greatly refreshed my spirit, as the expenses for the Orphans were never so great at any period, since the work commenced, as during the last six mouths, on account of the high price of provisions; and as the income, compared with the expenses, has been small of late, though considerable, were not the expenses so very great.
May 14. This morning I have received 150l., of which I have taken for the current expenses for the Orphans 100l., and for the other objects 50l.—Tomorrow I shall have to pay out for the Orphans 107l. 4s. The total amount I had in hand for them, before this donation was received, was only 120l. How kind, therefore, of the Lord to replenish our means again, before they were almost entirely exhausted!—I received, also, this morning from Clifton 5l.
During the following 12 days there came in further 107l. altogether for the support of the Orphans.
Miscellaneous points respecting the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad, with reference to the period from May 26, 1853, to May 26, 1854.
1. During this year 4 Day Schools, with 202 children, were entirely supported by the funds of the Institution. Further, one Sunday School in Bristol, with 137 children, was entirely supported, and three others in Devonshire, Somersetshire, and Gloucestershire, with 300 children, were assisted. Lastly, one Adult School, with 154 Adult scholars, was entirely supported. The total amount which was spent during this year, in connexion with these schools, was 359l. 15s. 10 1/2 d.—The number of all the children, who were under our care, merely in the schools which were entirely supported by this Institution, from March 5,1834, to May 26, 1854, was 5,817 in the Day Schools, and 2,748 in the Sunday Schools, and 2,315 persons in the Adult School.
2. During this year was expended on the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, of the funds of the Institution, 433l. 2s. 9d. There were circulated during this year 1890 Bibles and 1288 New Testaments; and from the commencement of the work up to May 26, 1854, Twelve Thousand Three Hundred and Sixty-six Bibles, and Seven Thousand Three Hundred and Forty-nine New Testaments.
3. During this year there was spent of the Funds of the Institution for Missionary objects the sum of 2,249l. 10s. 8 1/2 d. By this sum, fifty-six labourers in the word and doctrine, in various parts of the world, were to a greater or less degree assisted.
During this year, the Lord was pleased to bless again abundantly the labours of many of those servants of Christ, who were assisted through the funds of this Institution, and this has been the case in foreign countries as well as at home.
4. There was laid out for the circulation of Tracts, from May 26, 1853, to May 26, 1854, the sum of 563l. 5s. 0 1/2 d.; and there were circulated 869,636 Tracts.
The total number of all time Tracts circulated from the beginning up to
May 26, 1854, was Two Millions Six Hundred and Eighty-nine Thousand Six
Hundred and Seventy-six.
We desire to be grateful to the Lord, that, during no period previously we were enabled to circulate more Tracts, and more copies of the Holy Scriptures, and aid to a greater degree missionary labours, than during this period; yet we would not rest in that. It is the blessing of the Lord upon our labours which we need, which we desire, and which, by His grace, we also seek. If never so many millions of Tracts, yea even copies of the Holy Scriptures, were circulated, and the Lord did not give His blessing, all these efforts would produce no results to the glory of His name. Yea, if even tens of thousands of preachers of the gospel could be supported with means, in the darkest places of the earth, and they enjoyed not the blessing of the Lord upon their labours, they would labour in vain. For this blessing God will be asked, in order that He may bestow it; but, when it is sought at His hands, He delights in giving it. By God's help we were enabled to seek this blessing, and we obtained again precious answers to our prayers, during this year. It is not merely that the Lord was pleased to give us answers to our prayers with regard to means for carrying on the work; but also in that the various objects of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution were abundantly blessed to the conversion of very many souls; and this was particularly also the case again with reference to the circulation of Tracts.
If any of the Christian Readers are in the habit of circulating Tracts, and yet have never seen fruit, may I suggest to them the following hints for their prayerful consideration. 1, Seek for such a state of heart, through Prayer and meditation on the Holy Scriptures, as that you are willing to let God have all the honour, if any good is accomplished by your service. If you desire for yourself the honour, yea, though it were in part only, you oblige the Lord, so to speak, to put you as yet aside as a vessel not meet for the Master's use. One of the greatest qualifications for usefulness in the service of the Lord is a heart, truly desirous of getting honour for Him. 2, Precede all your labours with earnest, diligent prayer; go to them in a prayerful spirit; and follow them by prayer. Do not rest on the number of Tracts you have given. A million of Tracts may not be the means of converting one single soul; and yet how great, beyond calculation, may be the blessing which results from one single Tract. Thus it is also with regard to the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, and the ministry of the Word itself. Expect, then, everything from the blessing of the Lord, and nothing at all from your own exertions. 3, And yet, at the same time, labour, press into every open door, be instant in season and out of season, as if everything depended upon your labours. This, as has been stated before, is one of the great secrets in connexion with successful service for the Lord; to work, as if everything depended upon our diligence, and yet not to rest in the least upon our exertions, but upon the blessing of the Lord. 4, This blessing of the Lord, however, should not merely be sought in prayer, but should also be expected, looked for, continually looked for; and the result will be, that we shall surely have it. 5, But suppose, that, for the trial of our faith, this blessing were for a long time withheld from our sight; or suppose even that we should have to fall asleep, before we see much good resulting from our labours; yet will they, if carried on in such a way and spirit as has been stated, be at last abundantly owned, and we shall have a much harvest in the day of Christ.
Now, dear Christian Reader, if you have not seen much blessing resulting from your labours, or perhaps none at all, consider prayerfully these hints, which are affectionately given by one who has now for about thirty years [in 1856] in some measure sought to serve the Lord, and who has found the blessedness, of what he has suggested, in some measure in his own experience.
5. At the beginning of this period, there were Three Hundred Orphans in the New Orphan House on Ashley Down, Bristol. During the year there were admitted into it 30 Orphans; making 330 in all. Of these 330, four died, three were received back again by their relatives, who by that time were able to provide for them, 17 boys were, at the expense of the establishment, fitted out and apprenticed, and eight girls were fitted out and sent to situations, at the expense of the Establishment; so that there were only 298 Orphans in the house at the close of the period. The total number of Orphans, who were under our care from April, 1836, to May 26, 1854, was Five Hundred and Fifty Eight.
I notice further the following points in connexion with the New Orphan
House.
A. The expenses during this year, for the support of the Orphans, were 3,897l. 2s. 0 1/2 d.
B. Without any one having been personally applied to for anything by me, the sum of 64,591l. 6s. 11 1/4 d. was given to me for the Orphans as the result of prayer to God from the commencement of the work up to May 26, 1854.—It may be also interesting to the reader to know that the total amount given for the other objects, from the commencement of the work up to May 26, 1854, was 22,268l. 2s 11 1/4 d.; and that which came in by the sale of Bibles and Tracts, and by the payments of the children in the Day Schools, from the commencement up to May 26, 1854, amounted to 3,989l. 4s. 5 3/4 d.—Besides this, also, a great variety and number of articles of clothing, furniture, provisions, &c., were given for the use of the Orphans.
C. Our labours continued to be blessed among the Orphans. We saw also again fruit of our labours, during this year, with regard to Orphans who formerly were under our care.
Matters connected with my own personal affairs, from May 26, 1853, to
May 26, 1854.
In July 1853 it pleased the Lord to try my faith in a way in which before it had not been tried. My beloved daughter, an only child, and a believer since the commencement of the year 1846, was taken ill on June 20th. This illness, at first a low fever, turned to typhus. On July 3rd there seemed no hope of her recovery. Now was the trial of faith. But faith triumphed. My beloved wife and I were enabled to give her up into the hands of the Lord. He sustained us both exceedingly. But I will only speak about myself. Though my only and beloved child was brought near the grave, yet was my soul inn perfect peace, satisfied with the will of my Heavenly Father, being assured that He would only do that for her and her parents, which in the end would be the best. She continued very ill till about July 20th, when restoration began. On Aug. 18th she was so far restored, that she could be removed to Clevedon for change of air, though exceedingly weak. It was then 59 days mince she was first taken ill.
While I was in this affliction, this great affliction, besides being at peace, so far as the Lord's dispensation was concerned, I also felt perfectly at peace with regard to the cause of the affliction. When in August 1831 the hand of the Lord was heavily laid on me in my family, as related in the first part of this Narrative, I had not the least hesitation in knowing, that it was the Father's rod, applied in infinite wisdom and love, for the restoration of my soul from a state of lukewarmness. At this time, however, I had no such feeling. Conscious as I was of manifold weaknesses, failings, and shortcomings, so that I too would be ready to say with the Apostle Paul, "O wretched man that I am;" yet I was assured that this affliction was not upon me in the way of the fatherly rod, but for the trial of my faith. Persons often have, no doubt, the idea respecting me, that all my trials of faith regard matters connected with money, though the reverse has been stated by me very frequently; now, however, the Lord would try my faith concerning one of my dearest earthly treasures, yea, next to my beloved wife, the dearest of all my earthly possessions. Parents know what an only child, a beloved child is, and what to believing parents an only child, a believing child must be. Well, the Father in heaven said, as it were, by this His dispensation, Art thou willing to give up this child to me? My heart responded, As it seems good to Thee my Heavenly Father. Thy will be done. But as our hearts were made willing to give back our beloved child to Him who had given her to us, so He was ready to leave her to us, and she lived. "Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart." Psalm xxxvii. 4. The desires of my heart were, to retain the beloved daughter, if it were the will of God; the means to retain her were, to be satisfied with the will of the Lord.
Of all the trials of faith that as yet I have had to pass through, this was the greatest; amid by God's abundant mercy, I own it to His praise, I was enabled to delight myself in the will of God; for I felt perfectly sure, that, if the Lord took this beloved daughter, it would be best for her parents, best for herself, and more for the glory of God than if she lived: this better part I was satisfied with; and thus my heart had peace, perfect peace, and I had not a moment's anxiety. Thus would it be under all circumstances, however painful, were the believer exercising faith.
Dec. 31, 1853. During this year the Lord was pleased to give me
1. By anonymous donations through the boxes … … … … L177 9 7 1/2
2. Through donations from believers in Bristol, not anonymously . . . . . . . 143 3 0
3. Through donations from believers not residing in Bristol … … 299 16 1
4. Through presents in clothes, provisions, &c., worth at least … … 18 3 0
——
L638 11 8 1/2
————
Further account respecting the intended Orphan I-louse for Seven Hundred
Poor Orphans, bereaved of both Parents by death, from May 26, 1854, to
May 26, 1855.
On May 26, 1854, I had actually in hand for this intended Orphan House, as has been stated in the last chapter on this subject, 17,816l. 19s. 5 1/4 d. I will now relate further, how the Lord was pleased to supply me with means, but can only refer, for the sake of brevity, to a few instances out of many. The receipts of the first month of this year, however, shall be given entirely, as a specimen.
May 29, 1854. Through Salem Chapel boxes 6d.
May 31. From Finchdean 5l.
June 1. Through the boxes at Bethesda Chapel 1l.—Ditto from P. and
M. E. 10s.—From London 1s. 6d.
June 4. A gold dollar piece and nearly two pennyweights of Californian gold dust.
June 5. Through Bethesda Chapel boxes 2s. 6d. as a thank-offering to the Lord for the mercies of the past month.—Through Salem Chapel boxes 1s.—Ditto 6d.—From P. 2s.
June 7. Anonymously through London Bankers 100l.—Through the boxes at the New Orphan House 1s.
June. 8. From E. 2s. 6d.—Anonymously 2s.
June. 12. Through Bethesda boxes 3s.—Ditto 1s.—Ditto 1l.—
Through Salem boxes 6d.
June 14. Through the boxes at the New Orphan House 5s.—Ditto 1/4 d.
June 17. By sale of articles 17s. 7d.
June 18. 3s.—5s.
June-19. 15s.
June 22. A muslin cap, a cape, some worked trimming, and two bags, to be sold for the Building Fund.
June 25. From Glasgow 2s. 6d.—From K. C. 10s.
June 26. Anonymously 2s. 2d.—Through Salem boxes 6d.—From P. 1s.
These were but little sums, esteemed reader, in comparison with the total amount required for the accommodation of 700 more Orphans; yea, they were even small in comparison with what was still required, though I had then nearly 18,000l. in hand. But as it had been given to me, by God's grace, to expect help from Him, yea, the full help needed for this object, so the additional income of a few pounds, of a few shillings, yea of a penny or two, was an encouragement to me for further waiting upon Him, as every donation, the smallest even, brings me nearer the time when all my prayers concerning this object also shall be turned into praises.
July 1. A large gold brooch, set with two carbuncles, to be sold for the
Building Fund.
July 2. Anonymously through London Bankers 100l.—From Bury 10s.
July 19. A silver tea pot.
Sept. 27. From one of the former Orphans, now in service, 5s.—From the Orphan Girls, now under our care, 15s. for the Building Fund.— From the House Girls, i.e. the elder female Orphans, who are more particularly engaged in doing household work, for the purpose of being thus trained for situations, I received likewise 11s.—From the Infant Orphans was also received for the Building Fund today, 6s. 8d.; and from the Orphan Boys 15s, 0 1/2 d.—Oct. 4. From two little factory girls 1s. 7d.
Oct. 28. From Halifax in Nova Scotia 7l.
Nov. 25. From the neighbourhood of Wheatley 10l.
Dec. 8. From various believers at Hull 12l. 12s.
Dee. 30. From Orleans, in France, five francs.
Thus ended the year 1854. Only 426l. 16s. 4d. altogether had come in for the Building Fund from May 26 up to the end of the year. My faith and patience were therefore tried; but, while they were tried, they were, by God's grace, sustained. Day by day I had been enabled from May 26 to Dec. 31, 1854, as well as during the three years previously, to bring this object before the Lord in player; and day by day, by God's grace, my heart had been fully assured, without wavering, that He, in His own time, would not only give larger sums, but the whole amount required. I desired only His honour in the building of premises for 700 more destitute Orphans, bereaved of both parents; and as God, who cares infinitely more for poor Orphans than I do, did not consider the time to have come for the building of another house, I might well be quiet. My heart longed indeed to begin to build; for there were not only 602 Orphans waiting for admission, when the last report was published but there had been application made for 125 more since then, so that on Dec. 31, 1854, 714 were waiting for admission, as only 13 could be received of the total number of 727, no more vacancies having occurred. But though it was so, I judged it was the will of God, that, by patiently waiting His own time, I should glorify Him.—I now proceed to relate how the Lord further dealt with me.
Jan. 1, 1855. 6s. 3d.—From an Orphan 1s., Ditto 1s.—From Manchester 10s.—From three children in Ireland 5s.—Anonymously from Culworth 1l.—From P. 2s. 6d.
Jan. 8. On this day I received from several Christian friends the promise, that 5,700l. should be paid to me for the work of the Lord in which I am engaged.—This donation was paid to me, in different installments, by the middle of April. I took of this sum, for the Building fund 3,400l., for the support of the Orphans 900l., for missionary objects 1,000l., for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures 150l., for the circulation of Tracts 150l., and for the various day schools, Sunday schools, and the adult school 100l. Thus the Lord is hastening on the time when the building may be commenced. His name be magnified! How refreshing this help was, and how seasonable with regard to all the various objects, can scarcely be described. The Lord may allow us, to have our faith and patience tried; but if we are enabled to continue to look to Him, and to trust in Him alone, a rich recompense will result from doing so.
Jan. 11. From a distance of several hundred miles 13l. 15s, with a letter containing the following paragraph: For the last six months, we (i.e. the donor and his wife) have laboured in prayer for the different departments of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution, and especially that our Heavenly Father would be pleased this year largely to increase the Building Fund, and let the work proceed. Two months ago, while continuing in prayer, it was laid upon our minds, that we should set apart, whatever monies the Lord might send us between that time and the new year. The sum contained in the order is what the Lord has given us and we rejoice in being able to send it." What various ways has the Lord to help us! The donor of the 13l. 15s. is a brother who serves the Lord in the ministry of the Gospel among very poor and wretched persons, whilst he labours in dependence upon Him for his temporal supplies. He has been greatly encouraged by the accounts of the Lord's dealings with the Scriptural Knowledge Institution; and now he is a fellow-helper in prayer, and, as this instance shows, also in contributing out of that which the Lord gives to him as the fruit of prayer. This donation greatly refreshed my spirit; for it is so manifest a proof that the Lord is mindful of this work, that He surely, in His own time, will provide for the accommodation of 700 more Orphans, and that thus this dear donor's prayers, and our prayers, will be turned into praises.
Feb. 7. From London 400l., of which the donor kindly wished me to keep 20l. for my family expenses, and to lay out the 380l. for the Lord's work, as I might think best. I took therefore 100l for the Building Fund, 140l. for the support of the Orphans, and 140l. for the other objects.
Feb. 10. Received 197l. 17s. 3d., of which the donor kindly wished me to take 20l. for my own expenses, and the rest to be used as might be most needed for the Lord's work. I took therefore 57l. 17s. 3d. for the Building Fund, 60l. for the support of the Orphans and 60l. for the other objects.
March 28. From one of the Orphans, formerly for many years under our care, but now in service, 10s., with the following letter:
"Dear Sir,—Will you graciously accept this mite from one who thinks of you and yours with gratitude. It is indeed a very small sum. I regret that I have no more to bestow upon such a noble work. It will perhaps put a corner stone in the wall of the intended Orphan House. I think I should like to labour for the Lord in that blessed house, if it is His own will, and be the means in the Lord's hand of bringing many of the dear Orphans to know the truth as it is in Jesus. It was in the Orphan House in Wilson Street, 1846, that first the light of life dawned upon my benighted soul. It was there, that I first learned to call God my Father. I have need therefore to love the Orphan House, not only as concerning temporal things, but especially as its being my spiritual birth-place. May the Lord reward you, dear Sir, for all you have done for me. I am sure He will.
"I am, dear Sir, yours most respectfully,
"* * * * * * * *"
I have at full length inserted this letter out of very many of that kind, received during the past twenty years, that I have been engaged in the Orphan work, for many of the Orphans who have been with us since. April 11, 1836, have not only been fitted for this life, through being under our care, but have been manifestly brought to the knowledge of the Lord.
April 22. 50l., with 50l. for the labourers in the Gospel.
May 6. From Clifton 20l., with 10l. for missions.—May 26. By the sale of a publication 69l. 18s. 1 1/2 d.—To the sums received during this year is to be added 767l. 7s. 0d., received for interest. Thus ends the period from May 26, 1854, to May 26, 1855. The amount which came in during this year for the Building Fund, together with the 17,816l. 19s. 5 1/4 d. in. hand on May 26, 1854, make the total of 23,059l. 17s. 8 1/4 d. in hand on May 26, 1855.
In. addition to what has been stated relative to the income for the
Building Fund during this year, I furnish the Reader with the following
particulars respecting the building for 700 Orphans, reprinted from the
Report for 1855.
When I had received the kind information, in January 1855, respecting the donation of 5700l., which should be paid to me by several Christian friends, of which I was at liberty to take such portion for the Building Fund as I might deem desirable, I judged that, though I had not such an amount of means in hand as I considered necessary before being warranted to begin to build, yet that I might make inquiries respecting land. Accordingly, I applied in the beginning of February for the purchase of two fields which join the land on which the New Orphan-House is built. On these two fields I had had my eye for years, and had purposed to endeavour to purchase them, whenever I might be in such a position as to means for the Building Fund, that it would be suitable to do so. I found, however, that, according to the will of the late owner of these fields, they could not be sold now. Thus my prospects were blighted. When I obtained this information, though naturally tried by it and disappointed, I said, by God's grace, to myself: "The Lord has something better to give me, instead of these two fields;" and thus my heart was kept in peace. But when now the matter was fully decided that I could not obtain those fields, which had appeared to me so desirable for the object, the question arose, what I was to do for the obtaining of land. Under these circumstances some of my Christian friends again asked, as they had done before, why I did not build on the ground which we have around the New Orphan-House? My reply was, as before, that it could not be done:—1. Because it would throw the New Orphan-House for nearly two years into disorder on account of the building going on round about it. 2. There would not be sufficient room without shutting in the present house to a great extent. 3. That, as the New Orphan-House stands in the centre of our ground, there would not be sufficient room on any of the sides for the erection of a building so large as would be required.—I was, however, led to consider whether there was any way whereby we could accomplish the building on the ground belonging to the New Orphan-House. In doing so, I found that—1. By having a high temporary boundary made of old boards, the building ground could be entirely distinct from the present establishment. 2. By building on an entirely different plan from that of the present house, we should not only have room enough; but that also, 3. The present house would not be so enclosed that the health of the inmates of the establishment would thereby be injured.
But there was in connexion with this another point, which now came under consideration in addition to the particulars already mentioned: it was this. Though for four years past I had never had a doubt as to its being the will of God that I should build accommodation for 700 more Orphans; yet, at the same time, I had for a long time seen the desirableness of having two houses, instead of one, for the 700 Orphans. This previously formed judgment of having two houses for 350 Orphans in each, or 400 in the one, and 300 in the other, led me now to see whether there could be another house built on each side of the present New Orphan-House, and I judged, from measuring the ground, that there was no objection to this plan. I then called in the aid of architects, to survey the ground, and to make a rough plan of two houses, one on each side, and it was found that it could be accomplished. Having arrived thus far, I soon saw, that we should not only save expense by this plan in various ways, but especially that thus the direction, and inspection of the whole establishment would be much more easy and simple, as the buildings would be so near together. This, indeed, on being further considered, soon appeared to be a matter of such importance, that, even if land could be had but a quarter of a mile off, the difficulties would be greatly increased thereby. At the same time I found, that we still should retain so much land for cultivation by the spade, as would furnish some out-door employment for many boys, and would produce such vegetables as are the most important for young children, to have fresh out of the ground; or that we could easily rent a piece of ground near for that purpose, though it could not be bought.
The result, then, at which I have arrived at present is this, that, having seen what could be accomplished on the ground which we have already, I decided to build, without any further delay than was necessary for preparing the plans, at the South side of the New Orphan-House, another house for 400 children. The plans are now ready, and in a very short time, God willing, i.e. as soon as all tine necessary preliminary arrangements can be made, the building will commence, which I think will be in the early part of July of the present year, (i.e. 1855). Indeed, the first actual steps are already taken, since, on May 29th, the sinking of four wells for the new house was commenced.
This house is intended for 400 female Orphans, bereaved of both parents, from their earliest days, until they can be placed out in service. With regard to the other house for 300 Orphans, to be built at the North side of the New Orphan-House, nothing definitively can be stated at present. There is enough money in hand to build, fit up, and furnish the house for 400 Orphans, and it is expected that something will be left; but there is not sufficient money in hand, at present, to warrant commencing the building of both. As soon, however, as there is, I shall be delighted to take active measures with regard to that for 300 Orphans also. I do not ask persons to help me with their means. I speak to the Lord about my need in prayer, and I do not wait upon Him in vain. At the same time I feel it right to state, that there is a loud and an abundant call for caring for destitute Orphans. On May 26, 1854, there were 602 waiting for admission, each bereaved of both parents by death. Since then 197 more have been applied for, making in all 799. Of these I have been able to receive only 39 during the past year, and 45 who were waiting for admission have been otherwise provided for, or have died since application was made for them; so that still 715 Orphans are waiting for admission, from three months old and upward. But this number, I state unhesitatingly, would be much larger, had not very many persons refrained from making application, because they judged it would be of no use, as there are already so many waiting for admission. Indeed there is every reason to believe, that there are many tens of thousands of destitute Orphans in this country. And what provision is there in the way of Orphan establishments, it may be asked? At the last census in 1851, there were in England and Wales 39 Orphan Establishments, and the total number of Orphans provided for through them, amounted only to 3764; but at the time the New Orphan-House was being built, there were about 6000 young Orphans in the prisons of England. To prevent their going to prison, to prevent their being brought up in sin and vice, yea, to be the honoured instrument to win their souls for God, I desire, by His help, to enlarge the present establishment, so as to be able to receive 1000 Orphans; and individuals who purpose not to live for time but for eternity, and look on their means as in the light of eternity, will thus have an opportunity of helping me to care for these children. It is a great honour to be allowed to do anything for the Lord. We can only give to Him of His own; for all we have is His. When the day of recompense comes, the regret will only be, that we have done so little for Him, not that we have done too much.
Supplies for the School —, Bible ——, Missionary —, and Tract
Fund, sent in answer to prayer, from May 26, 1854, to May 26, 1855.
On May 26, 1854, when the accounts were closed, there was in hand 55l. 15s. for these objects. I now mention a few of the instances in which the Lord, in answer to prayer, supplied us with means.
July 6, 1854. As only about 100l. had come in for these objects during the past five weeks, all our means were now expended. I desired to help brethren who labour in the Word, but was unable to do so, when I received today 50l. from London, which, being left to my disposal, I took half of it for these objects, and half for the support of the Orphans.
July 8. Further, from the North of Devon 14l.
July 12. Day by day I have been waiting upon the Lord for means for home and foreign labourers in the Gospel, for whom I had no means, though greatly desiring to send them help. Today I received, as the fruit of many prayers, from London the sum of 100l., of which I took 50l. for the Orphans, and 50l. for these objects. It was the more remarkable that this donor should have sent me help at this time, as I had received 25l. from him on the first day of this month.
About this time I received several other donations for missions.
On July 24th I received a small plate-chest, containing 14 table spoons, 6 dessert spoons, 11 tea spoons, 2 gravy spoons, 2 sauce ladles, 12 forks, 4 salt cellars, 4 salt spoons, a pepper box, a pair of sugar tongs, a wine funnel, a cream jug, a small salver, a small goblet, a larger ditto, fish knife, and a coffee pot, all of silver, 3 pairs of plated nut crackers, a plated salver and a pewter can. The donor, who desires to be his own executor, wished me to sell these articles, keep 10l. for myself, and to use the rest for missionary objects. The contents of the box realized 44l. 5s. 10d., and I was thus enabled on August 1, 1854, to send 40l. to seven brethren labouring in British Guiana; and about ten weeks afterwards I heard that the Lord had sent them this help at a time of great need.—On July 25th from Kendal 1l. for missions.—On July 26th from a visitor at Clifton 30l. for missions.—From Bath 10s.—From Hackney 10s.—From Brosely 2s. 6d.—July 29. From Whitehaven 2l. 5s. 6d. for missions.—July 30. From Uppingham 2s. 6d.—August 8. 40l from a distance, of which 30l. was for missions.—August 18. From C. W. 20l. for missions.
I had thus the joy of being able to send assistance to some of the brethren whom I desire to help as labourers in the Gospel at Home or Abroad; yet all this was little in comparison with what I desired to do. For several months, during this period, that is in June, July, August and September, up to October 17th, I was day by day waiting upon the Lord for means for labourers in the Word, as I had reason to believe that many of them were in need; but little only, comparatively, came in. I was able to send up to October l7th not more than about one half of what I had been able to send them for several years previously. My desire to help these dear brethren was as great as ever. My earnestness in prayer for them, by God's grace, had not decreased. Their need, I had full reason to believe (and in some instances I knew) was great. I could, therefore, only conclude that the Lord allowed these dear brethren thus to have their faith tried, in order that they might the better become acquainted with himself. At last, however, the Lord refreshed my spirit greatly, first on October 17th, and then especially by that large donation at the commencement of the year 1855, of which I took a considerable portion for missionary objects, so that, especially during the last five months of this period, I was able to send help to brethren who labour in the Gospel to such an extent, as that about the same amount was disbursed for that object as for several years previously, but a greater amount for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts than formerly. Of the donations for these objects between Aug. 18 and Oct. 17, 1854, I only mention the following—On Sept. 21st, anonymously from Exmonth, a bank post bill for 20l., of which the donor designed 10l. to be applied to the Missionary Fund, 5l. for the Orphans, and 5l. where most needed, or for my own necessities, as a thank-offering for unmerited mercies. This latter 5l., left for my disposal, I took for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Gospel Tracts. I wrote in my journal concerning this donation: "A precious answer to prayer! Great, great is the need."—On Sept. 23rd a deeply-afflicted mother left at my disposal 20l. I took it for missionary objects, the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Gospel Tracts; for which objects much then was needed. Almost all the Tracts for gratuitous circulation were gone, and many brethren who labour in the Word I desired to help, but had not the means.—Sept. 26. From Kensington 11l., which was taken for the circulation of Tracts and missions, as the disposal of it was left with me.—From Worcestershire 8l. 6s. 7d., being the balance of an account. It was taken for missions and the circulation of Gospel Tracts. A most seasonable help!—Sept. 28. "From two of God's children who can say, 'Our hearts trusted in Him, and we are helped,'" Psalm xxviii. 7, 1l. for missions, 1l. for the Orphans, with 1l. for myself.—Sept. 30. This morning, at our usual prayer meeting with my fellow-labourers, the need of brethren, who labour in the Word, was again especially brought before the Lord, as I had reason to believe many were in need, and I had nothing to send them. This evening I received from Shropshire 2 gold chains, a diamond brooch, and a topaz brooch, with the request of the donor to sell them for the benefit of brethren who labour in the Word. This donation has greatly refreshed my spirit, but I look out for more, far more.—Oct. 4. From E. B. 5l. for missions.—From a Missionary box at Stroud 3l. 0s. 7d.—Oct. 8. From a distance 20l. for brethren who labour in the Gospel at Home and Abroad, 40l. for the Orphans, and 20l. for my own expenses. Precious answer to prayer. Great, great is the need for labourers in the Word. I had, therefore, particularly again waited upon the Lord yesterday, together with my fellow-labourers, for this object.—From B. S. 1l. for missions.— Oct. 11. From Austin Friars, London, 20l.—Oct. 12. From Philadelphia 1l. From Cotham Lane 1l.—Oct. 14. 2s. 6d.—From Weymouth was received 2l., the disposal of which was left to me. Having just sent out, to the last pound, 40l. to Demerara, I took it for Missionary objects.
Oct. 17. This morning at family prayer, came, in the course of reading, Exodus v, which shows, that, just before the deliverance of the Israelites out of Egypt, their trials were greater than ever. They had not only to make the same number of bricks as before, but also to gather stubble, as no straw was given them any longer. This led me, in expounding the portion, to observe, that even now the children of God are often in greater trial than ever, just before help and deliverance comes. Immediately after family prayer it was found, that by the morning's post not one penny had come in for the work of the Lord in which I am engaged, though we needed much, and though but very little had come in during the three previous days. Thus I had now to remember Exodus v, and to practise the truths contained therein. In the course of the day nothing was received. In the evening I had, as usual, a season for prayer with my dear wife, respecting the various objects of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution, and then we left the New Orphan House for our home. When we arrived at our house, about nine o'clock, we found that 5l. and also 5s. had been sent from Norwich in two Post Office Orders for the Building Fund, and that 8l. 3s. 11d. had been sent in for Bibles, Tracts and Reports, which had been sold. This called for thanksgiving. But a little later, between nine and ten o'clock, a Christian gentleman called and gave me 1l. for the Orphans and 200l. for foreign missions. He had received these sums from an aged Christian woman, whose savings as a servant, during her whole life, made up the 200l., and who, having recently had left to her a little annual income of about 30l., felt herself constrained, by the love of Christ, to send the savings of her whole life for foreign missions. This gentleman stated to me at the same time, that she had never had more than 5l. or 6l. wages a year, during her whole life. Moreover, out of this she has sent me, year by year, 1l. or more for the benefit of the Orphans, for many years; though I never knew her circumstances till now, as she resides at a distance, and I have never seen her. What various ways has the Lord to supply us with means! I add the following remarks: 1, For several months past no donation as large as 200l. has been received, a circumstance which has not occurred for about ten years past. 2, Now an aged servant is used by the Lord to send this donation as the fruit of her earnings, from about fifty years' service. 3, Our especial prayer had been again and again, that the Lord would be pleased to send in means for missionary brethren, as I had reason to believe they were in much need of help; and only at eight o'clock this evening I had particularly besought the Lord to send help for this object. By the last mail I had sent off 40l. to British Guiana, to help seven brethren there in some measure. This amount took the last pound in hand for this object. How gladly would I have sent assistance to other brethren also, but I had no more. Now I am in some degree supplied for this object. 4, Very recently our tracts for gratuitous circulation were almost entirely gone; but, before they were quite exhausted, the Lord sent more means, so that about 200,000 could be ordered.
Oct. 23 Received 149l. 8s., the disposal of which was left with me. I took of it 100l. for the support of the Orphans, for whom I had not 5l. in hand, when it came, and the remainder for these objects, for which still much is needed, in order to help labourers in the Gospel at home, as well as foreign labourers, and in order to go on with the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts, and to meet the expenses for the various schools. This morning I had also the promise, that in about a month 400l. should be paid to me for the work of the Lord. Thus, after a season of several months, during which scarcely any large sums have been received, the Lord is pleased, in answer to many prayers, to cause the streams of His bounty to flow again more abundantly.
Oct. 26. From a visitor at Clifton 50l., which I took for the School,
Bible, Missionary, and Tract Objects.
Nov. 27. In great need there came in 100l., which was left to my appropriation as it might be most required. I took, therefore, 50l. for the Orphans, for whom there was scarcely anything in hand, and 50l. for these objects, for which we needed much in every way.
Dec. 30. Received 100l., when in the greatest need for these objects, and for the support of the Orphans. I took one-half for these objects, and the other for the Orphans, and am thus again helped, in answer to many prayers.
Jan. 1, 1855. As the year closed with mercies, so another has commenced with mercies. I received from one engaged in the work 2l. for missions. — From M. E. for missions 5s.—From E. 0. 5s.—From M. A. E. 4s. 4d.—From B. S. 1l. for missions.—Also 10l. for the support of the Day Schools.
Jan. 2. From a few believers in Huntingdonshire 15s. 2d. for missions.
Jan. 3. From two Christian ladies in London 10l. for missions, with 10l. for the Orphans.
Thus we were helped till I received on Jan. 8th the promise of the donation of 5,700l., of which, as has been stated, 1,400l. was taken for these objects. This, with what came in besides, from Jan. 8, to May 26, 1855, enabled me so amply to meet every demand afterwards, that no further difficulty was experienced during this period, in the way of means.
Means for the support of the 300 Orphans, a/ready under our care, sent in answer to prayer, from May 26, 1854, to May 26, 1855.
At the beginning of this period there was in hand a balance of 123l. 0s. 7 1/2 d. To the poorer class of readers this might appear a considerable sum; but to such we would say, that often the expenses of three or four days are more than this for the Orphan Establishment, with which 335 persons are connected; and, certainly, the average expenses, even if no extraordinary demands were to be met, amount to about Twelve Pounds per day in these dear times; and therefore 123l. would only be enough for about ten days. We had then, so far as regarded visible/e support, only enough for about ten days; but whilst we had so little as to visible support, we looked by faith to Him who is invisible, the Living God, who has upheld this work for so many years. We believed that He would help us still; and we were not confounded, though our faith was again and again tried. I can, however, give only a few out of the many instances which might be recorded.
June 15, 1854. Though this is only the third week since the new period commenced, yet as only about 60l. had come in for the support of the Orphans, in addition to the balance of 123l. 0s. 7 1/2 d., we were today reduced to less than Five Pounds. This had led to much waiting upon the Lord: and again He gave a gracious answer to prayer. I received 151l. 5s. 8d., which, being left to my disposal, I took the whole for the support of the Orphans. Also from two little girls was sent to me 8s., with the information that one of their sisters had set apart a swarm of bees, the honey of which should be sold for the benefit of the Orphans. Thus the Lord has again helped in the hour of need.
July 12. Our means were now again reduced to about 30l., as only about 150l. had come in since June 15. In addition to this, we had very heavy expenses before us. This morning, in reading through the book of Proverbs, when I came to chapter xxii. 19— "That thy trust maybe in the Lord," &c., I said in prayer to Him: "Lord, I do trust in Thee; but wilt Thou now be pleased to help me; for I am in need of means for the current expenses of all the various objects of the Institution." By the first delivery of letters I received an order on a London bank for 100l., to be used for all the various objects, "as the present need might require." I took, therefore, 50l. for the support of the Orphans, and 50l. for the other objects, which are also in great need. Received also from Wandsworth Road 1l. 10s. 8d.; and in the course of the day 2l. 3s. 3d., through the boxes at the New Orphan House. Thus we are again helped for the present.
July 19. For some time past I have been under an engagement to leave Bristol at the end of this month, or in the beginning of August, for about four weeks, to labour at Sunderland. On this account I have besought the Lord during the last days that He would be pleased to send me some means for my own expenses, but especially that I might be able to leave some money behind, to last at least for some time. Yesterday the Lord was pleased to begin answering my request, in sending means for the support of the Orphans. I received from Lymington 5l.—From Tregenda 10s.—From Thetford 10s.—From Perth 1l.—From Kilmarnock 5l.—By sale of Reports 18s. 10d.—Proceeds of an Orphan Box 1l. 5s. 9 1/2 d. Today I have received from South Brent 1s. — From Middlesex 50l.—Ditto 18s.—From Clifton 5l.—From Dudbridge 8s.—Through the boxes in the New Orphan House 7l. 1s. 3d. — By sale of Reports 1l. 8s.—Returned on paying an account 2s. 4d. — From a visitor at Clifton 50l. and a gold chain. The donor kindly wished me to retain 10l. for my own expenses.—From Kingsbridge 2s.
Thus the Lord began to answer prayer; but I expected more, and He sent me more on the following days. I record the income for the Orphans:—
July 20. From Homerton 3l. 3s.—Anonymously from Birmingham 1s.—
Anonymously left at my house 5l.
July 21. From Bideford 10s.—By sale of Reports 1s.—From Tavistock 4s. 9d.—In a box from Tavistock, containing specimens of ores, &c. 3s.
July 22. From Wotton-under-edge 10s.—By sale of Reports 7s.—From
West Brixton 2l.—From the Isle of Wight 1s. 6d. and 3s. 6d.—By
sale of Reports 2s.—From Chippenham 2l. 10s.—From College Green,
Bristol, 10s.
July 23. From Bodmin 5s. and 1s.—From Clifton 5s. Ditto 5s. Ditto 1l. Ditto 1l.
July 24. From Dudley 1l. 0. 6d. Ditto 1s. 8d.—From Clifton 10s.—
With James i. 17l. 2s. 6d.—From P. 2s. 6d.—Through Salem boxes
1s. Ditto 6d.—From Stourbridge 1s. 6d.—From Hastings 1l. 10s.
— From H. B. Esq. 2l.
July 25. From Wells 3s.—12s.—2s. 6d.—From Kendal 2l.—
From London 10l.
July 26. Through the boxes at the New Orphan House 5l. 18s. 11d.—By sale of Reports 14s. Ditto 6s.—From Torquay 3s. 4d.—From the neighbourhood of Newton Abbot 11s., with three silver pencil cases, and two pieces of old silver.—From a visitor at Clifton 100l., of which the donor wished me to take 20l. for myself, and to use the other as most needed. I took, therefore, 50l. for the Orphans, and 30l. for missions and the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts.—From Hackney 1l. 5s.—From Taunton 2s. and 1/4 lb. of tea.—There were anonymously left at the New Orphan House two vases, a Chinese tea caddy, a mosaic box, a ring set with a ruby and two brilliants, a double gold serpent bracelet, a large cameo brooch, a silver snuff-box, a double gold pin set with two brilliants, a pair of gold ear-rings, a pair of gold ear-rings set with pearls and emeralds, a gold brooch set with pearls and emeralds, a gold pin set with pearls and garnets, three gold shirt studs, a large gold cameo ring, a gold masonic medal, a pair of small gold ear-rings, a gold ring set with topazes, a gold watch ring, and a rupee. (These valuable articles did not merely refresh my spirit on account of their value; but they came as an answer to prayer for means, and also that the Lord would incline the hearts of His children to send such valuable, but needless, articles.) There were also given by the same donors, six Indian table mats, a white lace scarf, a black lace cap, and two pamphlets.
July 27. "20l. tendered as a thank-offering for singular deliverance at Llanberis." Ditto 1s. for a Report. —From Reading 1l.—From a Christian gentleman of Edinburgh, then near Glasgow, 3l. Through ditto 1l. Ditto 1l.—From Grundisburgh 5s. Ditto 1s. Ditto 6d.— Anonymously in postages 2s. 6d.—From Bath 5s.—From Chillington 10s. 6d.—From Nottingham 10s.
July 28. From Pentonville 1l., with a little box of articles.—From
Yeovil 1s. and 3s. 6d.—From Cannock 5l.—From Blackrock 12s.
July 29. From Higham Ferrers 10s.—From G. D. 1s.—From Colsterworth 10s.—From Wellesborne 10s.—Anonymously 2s.—By sale of Reports 3s. 6d.—From Whitehaven 2l. 14s. 6d.—By sale of a Report 6d.—From Largs 4l.—"From an Orphan Sailor" 2l.
July 30. From Uppingham 2s. 6d.—From Newton Ferrers 2s. 6d.
July 31. From Lenten 6s. 6d.—From Edinburgh 3l. 10s.
Aug. 1. From London 1l. Ditto 1s. 6d. Ditto 5l.—From Chillington 2s.
— From Broseley 5s.—From Warmley 5s. and an old silver watch.—
A little gold dust from a dying believer.—From F. E. B. 2s. 6d.—
From Barnstaple 1l. 3s.—From Northam 5s.—From Hereford 10s.
—By sale of Reports 1s. 6d.—From Newport, near Barnstaple, 1l.
10s.—From Barnstaple 1l. 10s.—From P. 2s. 6d.—Through
Bethesda boxes 3s. 6d.—By sale of articles 4l. 13s. 3d. —By sale
of Reports 10s.
Aug. 2. By sale of Reports 1l. 0s. 6d.—Anonymously 3s.—From Bath 1l. 10s.—From Ilfracombe 10l.—From Mundesley 2l.—Anonymously given at the New Orphan House 1l. Ditto 1s.—From Kilmersdon 6s.
Aug. 3. By sale of Reports 3s. 6d.—From Birmingham 6s. 6d.—
Through the boxes at the New Orphan House 3l. 18s. 3d.—From
Chapletown 10s.—From London 5l.—From Tavistock 2s. 6d.—
Returned on paying an account 2s. 4d.—By sale of Reports 2s. 6d.—
By sale of trinkets 38l. 11s. 6d.—By sale of Reports 12s. 10d.—
Received also a letter from the neighbourhood of Gumeracha, in
Australia, enclosing a bank order for 10l., of which 2l. was intended
for aged or blind saints in Bristol, 1l. for Bibles and Testaments, and
7l. for the Orphans or the other objects of the Scriptural Knowledge
Institution. I took this 7l. for the Orphans.
Aug. 4. From Plymouth 2l.—From Ilfracombe 10s.—From London 1l. 13s. 4d.
Aug. 5. From Manchester 10s.—By sale of Reports 3s. 4d.
Aug. 6. From Greenock 5l.—From Cockermouth 1l.—From Islington 1l. 1s.—From Child Okeford 2s. 6d.—From Clifton 2s. 6d. and 3s. — From Horfield Road 10s. —From Henbury 2l.
Aug. 7. From Melton Abbot 3s.—From Cheltenham Road, Bristol, 1l. 1s.
— From Islington 1l. 4s.—By sale of articles 17s. 3 1/2 d.—From
Fowey 5l.—Through Bethesda boxes 6s. 8d.—From St. Philip's,
Bristol, 5s.—From three children 8s. 6d.—From Clifton
1l. 10s.—Through Salem boxes 1s.
Aug. 8. From Lichfield 1l. Ditto 5s.—By sale of books 4l.—From
Calstock 2s. 6d.—From Freshwater 1l.
Aug. 9. Anonymously 10s.—By sale of Reports 2s.—From Yaxham 1l.
— From Gravesend 1l. Through the boxes in the New Orphan-House 4l. 5s.
10d.—From Norwich 16s.—From a brother in the Lord 5l. 17s. 4d.
— From Plymouth 10s.—By sale of Reports 14s. 6d.
Thus the Lord, in answer to prayer, had supplied me so bountifully, that, when I left home on August 10th, I could leave sufficient in the bank to last for a little time, and I hoped in God that, by the time that was gone, He would kindly give more. And thus He did. I have also given the income for the Orphans day by day, for the above 23 days, in order that thus the Reader may see how, in large and small sums, and from various parts of the world, the Lord is pleased to send in the supplies.
I shall now give a few more instances in which the Lord manifestly, in answer to prayer, helped us in the time of need.
Aug. 26. A Christian widow, having had left to her by a friend a few articles, among which was a diamond brooch, sent it to me for the benefit of the Orphans, and thus had the desire of her heart granted, which she had often had, to be able to send something for them. On the other hand, we receive it in answer to prayer, as there is very little in hand for the Orphans, and as I have again and again asked the Lord to lead His children to send me such articles for His own work.—There came in also from Kirriemuir 1l.—From Kingsbridge a guinea piece, also 1l. From the neighbourhood of Hyde 10s.
Aug. 27. From Douglas 1l.—From the neighbourhood of Sunderland 5s. — From Sunderland 5s.—Through Salem boxes 1s.—With James, 1, 17, 2s. 6d.—From H. T. and E. E. 2s.
Aug. 28. From Captain J. K., Royal Navy, 2l.—From Mr. C. K. 2l.—
From Mr. P. 1l.—From Bury 10s.
Aug. 29. From Sunderland 1l. Ditto 1s.—From Gloucester 6s.—By sale of articles 1l. 4s.—From one engaged in the work 2l.—From the neighbourhood of Crencester 1l.
Aug. 30. From the neighbourhood of Southampton 5l.
Aug. 31. Anonymously, through the boxes at Bethesda chapel, Sunderland, 5l.—From Ilfracombe 2s. 6d.—Through the boxes at the New Orphan-House 5l. 1 1/2 d.—By sale of Reports 16s.—From one engaged in the work, as a thank-offering for journeying mercies, 10s. — From the neighbourhood of Sudbury in Derbyshire 10l. —From Grosmont 5s.—From Hayle 1l.—By sale of the above-mentioned brooch 6l. 11s.
Sept. 1. From the Isle of Wight 2s. 6d.—From Birmingham 5l.—From
Bath 5l.—From a Christian lady in Bath 10l.
See, dear reader, how good the Lord is, and how ready to help in answer to prayer! I was then 300 miles from the work in which I am more especially engaged; but the Lord's assistance was to be obtained in this distant place. Day by day I sought His help while absent, and day by day I received intelligence from Bristol. And thus, my fellow-labourers in Bristol, and I at Sunderland, were seeking the help of the Lord, and He did condescend to listen to our supplications on account of His dear Son, the Lord Jesus, and to grant us our requests.
On this day, Sept. 1st, I also received a precious letter, enclosing a Post-Office Order for 2l. 14s., from a donor, who, for many years, took a lively interest in the work in which I am engaged. This letter was doubly precious, not only because of its containing 2l. 14s., which came just then so particularly in answer to prayer, as since August 2 6th, I had been especially looking to the Lord for means, there being then scarcely any thing left; but also because it so strikingly proved the power of the divine life.
* * * * Aug. 30, 1854.
"Dear Mr. Mueller,
"Having been a constant sufferer now for a year, the money I send you is (humanly speaking) consequently less; and as there is likely to be a crisis soon, in the shape of a large abscess, and I know not what the Lord is about to do with me, I send you all the money I have in hand; and if it should be the last may the Lord add a double blessing to it. The Lord does not want my poor help to do His own work; but I feel priviledged to be allowed to contribute, if it is but a nail, or a cup of milk, to His service. My peace is great—that is, His peace is with me, though tribulation, to some extent, is mine also. I desire your prayers, and remain,
"Yours in our precious Lord,
"* * * * *."
"P.S.—I expect to be able to send a box of, it may be, almost useless articles soon. Whither shall I send it?"
This Christian lady, whom I have never seen in the body, though I corresponded with her for many years, has entered into her rest. She fell asleep at the beginning of the year 1855. In looking over my account books, I meet again and again with the name of one and another who has finished his course. Soon dear Reader, your turn and mine may come. Are you prepared for eternity? Affectionately I press this question upon you. Do not put it away. Nothing is of greater moment than this point; yea, all other things, however important in their place, are of exceedingly small importance, in comparison with this matter. Do you ask, how you may be prepared for eternity, how to be saved, how to obtain the forgiveness of your sins; the answer is, believe in the Lord Jesus, trust in Him, depend upon Him alone as it regards the salvation of your soul. He was punished by God, in order that we guilty sinners, if we believe in Him, might not be punished. He fulfilled the law of God, and was obedient even unto death, in order that we disobedient, guilty sinners, if we believe in Him, might, on His account, be reckoned righteous by God. Ponder these things, dear Reader, should you have never done so before. Through faith in the Lord Jesus alone can we obtain forgiveness of our sins, and be at peace with God; but, believing in Jesus, we become, through this very faith, the children of God; have God as our Father, and may come to Him for all the temporal and spiritual blessings which we need. Thus every one of my readers may obtain answers to prayers, not only to the same extent that we obtain them, but far more abundantly. It may be that few, comparatively, of the children of God are called to serve the Lord in the way of establishing Orphan-Houses, &c.; but all of them may, yea, are called upon to trust in God, to rely upon Him, in their various positions and circumstances, and apply the word of God, faith, and prayer to their family circumstances, their earthly occupation, their afflictions and necessities of every kind, both temporally and spiritually; just as we, by God's help, in some little measure seek to apply the word of God, faith, and prayer to the various objects of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad. Make but trial of it, if you have never done so before, and you will see how happy a life it is. You may, perhaps, pity the writer, and think how he must be burdened day by day, and full of care and anxiety; and you may think that he cannot have any quietness and peace, but is worn down by the constant questionings, how the expenses for the various schools are to be met; how further money is to be obtained for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts; how the many preachers of the Gospel at Home and Abroad, who are assisted by the Institution, may once more be helped; how the 300 Orphans are to be provided with all they need; how situations for the elder female Orphans are to be found; how suitable places may be obtained for the elder male Orphans when they are ready to be apprenticed, and so on. Now here is just the true state of the case:— We are not insensible to any of these points; we do feel them. We do not put them away lightly and treat them with indifference; but we look them in the face and feel their deep importance. At the same time, while we neither treat them with indifference, nor attempt to carry them in our own strength, we do, by God's grace, cast our burdens upon Him, trust in Him; and thus are kept in peace in the midst of numberless difficulties, and almost constant trials of one kind and another. Truly I prefer by far this life of almost constant trial, if I am only able to roll all my cares upon my Heavenly Father, and thus become increasingly acquainted with Him, to a life of outward peace and quietness, without these constant proofs of His faithfulness, His wisdom, His love, His power, His over-ruling providence, &c.
Of the donations which came in between Sept. 2nd and Nov. 5th, amounting to about 600l., in 346 different sums, I mention only, for the sake of brevity, the following.
Sept. 2. From an anonymous donor through Mr. B. at Geneva, by the hands of Count G., 1l. 15s.—Sept. 6. Received from Clerkenwell 50l., to be used one half for missions, and the other half as I thought best. I took the one half for the support of the Orphans, and find the following remark in my journal respecting this donation: "What a precious answer to prayer! Since Aug. 26th we have been day by day coming to the Lord for our daily supplies. Precious, also, on account of missionary brethren, whom I seek to help, for whom there was nothing in hand when this donation was received!"—Sept. 22. From Crediton 3l. 4s. 8d., as "a thank-offering to God for the very fine harvest which in mercy He has been pleased to grant."
Nov. 5. There was now again only about 5l. in hand for the support of the Orphans, when I received 2l. 10s. for them, and 2l. 10s. for myself, from a donor in London, whom the Lord has been pleased to raise up during the last two years, and who since then has been often used as an instrument in helping the work at times of need. A brother in the Lord also gave me 5l. this morning, saying, "I have of late had the Orphans much laid on my heart."—From Clifton 1l. 10s.—From H. C. 3s. —From F. M. 5s.
Nov. 6. Further help. From the Isle of Wight 5s.—Through Bethesda boxes 2s. 6d.—Ditto 6d.—From P. 1s.—Through Salem boxes 1s. — From a Gloucestershire Farmer 20l., of which he intended 10l. for missions, and the other 10l. to be used as most needed. I took it for the support of the Orphans.
Nov. 7. By sale of Reports 4s. 10d.—Anonymously from York 5s.— Received back on paying an account 3s. 7 1/2 d.—From a relative of one of the Orphans 1s.—Having had to pay out 18l. for house-keeping expenses, and having had to meet a few little expenses besides, we had again only about 5l. left, as was the case three days ago, when I received this afternoon 5l. from a Bristol donor.—Also 1l. from London.
Nov. 15. Our means were now again gone. We had scarcely anything in hand, with very heavy expenses before us, when this morning a Christian gentleman from Yorkshire called on me, and gave me 50l. for the current expenses for the Orphans. This was a most precious encouragement to prayer! There came in further today from Manchester 9s. 6d.—By sale of Reports 11s. 6d.—Through the boxes in the New Orphan-House 2l.7s. 11d.—Returned on paying an account 3s. 1 1/4 d.—From Exeter 1l. 10s.
Nov. 22. A Brother in the Lord from Manchester came to see the New
Orphan-House, and gave 10l., which came in a time of great need.
Nov. 27. 100l. was sent in the greatest need, from a considerable distance, of which I took 50l. for the Orphans, and 50l. for the other objects.
Dec. 20. As since Nov. 27 only about 200l. has come in, I found this evening that our means for the support of the Orphans were reduced to 10l. 9s. 8d, whilst our current expenses of late have been about 12l. daily, on account of the high price of provisions. This led to earnest prayer, that the Lord would be pleased to help us.
Dec. 21. The Lord has already sent a precious answer to the prayer of last evening. I received today from a noble Lady 10l.—From Devonshire 15l.—By sale of Reports 6s. 6d.—From Birmingham 2s. — By sale of a few coins, etc. 19s. 1d.—From Monmouthshire 8s.— By sale of Reports 2s. 6d.—From Worksop 10s. 6d.—Returned on paying an account 3s. 3 3/4 d.
Dec. 23. From Cheltenham 2s. 6d.—From London 10s.—From Clondegad 10s.—By sale of articles 3l. 16s. 5d. By sale of a Report 6d.— From Edinburgh 5l.
Dec. 24. Anonymously 1l.—From Barking 6s.—From Blackheath Hill 6s.
Dec. 25. From B. S. 2s.—Through Bethesda and Salem boxes 7s.—
From P. 2s.
Dec. 26. From a brother in the Lord 6l.—From O. O. at Plymouth 10s.
Dec. 27. From two believers at Plymouth 10s.—From Kingsbridge 10s. — From Falmouth 1s.—From a little girl 3d.—By sale of Reports 6s.—Through the boxes in the New Orphan-House 1l. 14s. 4d.
Dec. 28. From Adelaide, Australia, 5l.
Dec. 29. From Torquay 5s.—From Exmouth 10s.—From Fulbeck 5s.—
From Sherborne 2s.
Dec. 30. At the beginning of this day our money was again reduced to 19l. 2s. 1 1/2 d. for the current expenses for the Orphans, whilst I had before me the prospect of having to advance this day 30l. for house-keeping expenses, in order that we might go with ease through the work, and in order that all expenses might be met. Now see how the Lord helped us during this day. There came very early this morning, from the neighbourhood of Norwich, a box, containing the following articles. A prize medal, 2 salt cellars, 6 pencil cases, 5 thimbles, 2 fruit knives, a watch chain, 2 vinaigrettes (all of silver), a black necklace, a silver chain, 2 silver toothpicks, some pieces of silver, 2 pairs of gilt bracelets, a pincushion, 4 snaps, a pair of gold earrings, a tortoiseshell comb, a pocket comb, a reading glass, a box of paints, a bag of coral and other beads, 2 smelling bottles and 2 gilt chains. Likewise, from another donor, a silver stock buckle, 2 pairs of shoe buckles, 2 pencil cases, a piece of silver chain, 2 seals, a brooch pin, 2 small gold pins, 6 small silver coins, a metal coin, a small silver medal, a thimble, a pair of silver studs, 9 pairs ditto set with Bristol stone, and a gold earring. There was sent with these articles likewise. 1l., and from a poor woman 6d.—In the course of the day came in further: From Islington 6s.—From A. W. 2s.—From Islington 5s., with 8 chemises and 4 shirts.—Also from a great distance 100l., which being left at my disposal, I took one half for the Orphans, and the other half for the other Objects.—By sale of articles 2l.— Also 2s. 6d., and 2s. 8 1/2 d. from an Orphan-box.—Thus I was enabled to advance this evening 30l. for house-keeping as needed.
This was the last time, during this period of the Institution, that we were brought so low as to means; for the Lord sent in on Dec. 31 6l. 10s.; on Jan. 1, 1855, in twenty-eight different donations, 14l. 4s. 6d.; on Jan. 2nd 17l. 8s. 3d.; on Jan. 3rd 15l. 1s. 3d.; on Jan. 4th 34l. 11s. 8d., and so on, till the large donation was given of which, as has been stated, 900l. was taken for the current expenses for the Orphans. This, with what came in from Dec. 30th 1854, up to May 26th, 1855, for the support of the Orphans, enabled me to meet all the demands without any difficulty, during the remaining five months. Of all these donations, making, up the total of 2226l. 10s. 7 1/4 d., I refer only to the following.
Jan. 1, 1855. From a clergyman in South Africa 1l.
Jan. 4. From a Christian merchant at Clifton 30l. for the Orphans, with 10l. for myself, and 10l. for poor believers.
There have been many instances, in which, along with the donations for missions, or for the support of the Orphans, or the Building Fund, there were also presents in money sent for my own personal expenses, or those of my family. These instances I have gladly recorded, as they came in connexion with the donations referred to, because they afforded me an opportunity of speaking well of the kindness and faithfulness of the Lord in supplying my own personal or family need. It is now [i.e. in 1856] above Twenty Five years, since I have not had any regular income whatever. In the year 1830, I saw it to be the Lord's will to give up my regular income in connexion with the ministry of the Word, and to trust in Him, alone for the supply of all my temporal necessities. I have been enabled to continue in this path, and have not been allowed to regret the step which I then took. Thus it is also in my position as director of the various objects of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution. I have no salary in this position; but the Lord abundantly supplies my need; yea, though there are many expenses connected with this very position, He abundantly meets all my wants, and gives me far more than I need. If with all my might I had sought to obtain a lucrative place, either as a preacher of the Gospel, or in some other way, I should not have had more, I have reason to believe, if as much, as, unsought, unasked for, so far as it regards man, I receive day by day out of the loving hand of my Heavenly Father. When I look at His kindness to me in saving my guilty soul, I am overwhelmed with the boundlessness of His love and grace towards me in Christ Jesus; and when I look at His kindness to me, even as it regards temporal things, I know not where to begin, nor where to end, in speaking well of His name. I do desire to magnify Him, and therefore declare in this public way His great goodness to me in thus so abundantly supplying my temporal necessities; and I do so also, if it may please God, by this means, to encourage the hearts of His children more and more unreservedly to trust in Him. It is now above twenty-five years since I have asked help for myself from any human being; but God has been indeed my helper. And now the very work even with which I am connected, respecting which I had every reason to believe, when I commenced it, that it would be connected with great expenses to myself, as well as be the means, looked at naturally, of decreasing my own income, God has, though unsought for on my part, used as the instrument to bring along with it many supplies for myself also, thus not only abundantly meeting my increased expenses, but giving me far more than I need for myself. How great is His goodness! Dear Christian Reader, be encouraged by this! Do but trust in God with all your heart, and you will find that you will not be confounded. Only let it be trust in God, not in man, not in circumstances, not in any of your own exertions, but real trust in God, and you will be helped, in your various necessities.—I refer to a few more of the donations.
Jan. 25. From various believers at Melbourne, Australia, 20l. for the
Orphans, and 20l. for the other objects.
Feb. 23. Received a very valuable gold watch, a gold watch chain, 2 gold watch keys, a gold seal, a silver mustard pot and spoon, a silver salt stand, a scent bottle, a china basket, 3 china jugs, a china cup and saucer and mug 2 taper candlesticks, a ring stand, 2 spill cups, a card stand, a lamp, a claret jug, a pair of decanters, 6 hock glasses, 14 claret glasses, 6 finger glasses, and a set of china tea things. The donor has found true riches and peace to his soul in the Lord Jesus; and he is thus led to send these articles for the benefit of the Orphans.
April 18. 100l. from a distance, of which the donor kindly intends 20l. for myself, and 80l. for the benefit of the Orphans.
May 5. 219l. 9s. 4d. from a distance, of which the donor kindly wished me to keep 19l. 9s 4d. for myself, and to use the other as it might be required for the Lord's work. I took 100l. for the support of the Orphans, and 100l. for the other objects. This donation was especially refreshing to my spirit, because of its coming at this period, when the outgoings are very great.
May 26. Towards the close of this day it was found that the balance left in hand, for the support of the Orphans, was 110l. 17s. 8 1/2 d., as the amount with which we should have to begin the new period in providing for the necessities of the Orphans. Before leaving the Orphan-House, I had my usual daily season for prayer with my dear wife. Having praised the Lord for His goodness to us and the work, in helping us during another year, and having sought His blessing upon the various objects of the Institution, we commended ourselves again to Him, especially, with reference to means for the coming year, and entreated Him also to sustain our faith to the end of our course; for the longer I go on in this path, the more I feel my entire dependence upon the Lord and my need of being sustained by Him. When we arrived home, we found two more donations, the last of the present period, sent for the benefit of the Orphans; one being two little dresses, a piece of print, a piece of calico, and 20 pocket handkerchiefs; the other a small gold Geneva watch, quite new. We took these two last donations as the Lord's earnest that He would be with us during the coming period also, and with good courage looked forward to it, by His grace.
I add a few remarks to this part of the Narrative:—1. Should any one suppose, on account of its having been stated in the previous pages that we were repeatedly brought low as to means, that the Orphans have not had all that was needful for them; we reply, that never, since the work has been in existence, has there a meal-time come, but the Orphans have had good nourishing food in sufficient quantity: and never have they needed clothes, but I have had the means to provide them with all they required. Persons living in Bristol can easily satisfy themselves as to this, not only by seeing week after week our stores for food and clothes; but also the dress and the healthy countenances of these hundreds of children (though very many of them were received in a very weak and diseased state) will amply prove what I state. 2. Never since the Orphan work has been in existence, have I asked one single human being for any help for this work; and yet, unasked for, simply in answer to prayer, from so many parts of the world, as has been stated, the donations have come in, and that very frequently at a time of the greatest need. Were I to state what is not true, persons could easily convict me; to say nothing of the fact that God, whose name I have continually connected with this work, would disown me as an awful deceiver, and bring this work to nought; but if these things are true, as indeed they are, will not my readers own the hand of God, will they not recognize the minute particular providence of God, and the readiness of His heart to listen to the supplications of those who come to Him with their requests in the name of the Lord Jesus? I do not seek a name for myself in connexion with this work; I do not wish to draw attention to myself, and am indeed sorry when persons have had their attention directed only to me; but I do seek honour for my Heavenly Father, and I do desire that His hand may be owned in this work.
Miscellaneous points respecting the Scriptural Knowledge Institution, for Home and Abroad, with reference to the period from May 20, 1854, to May 26, 1855.
1. During this year four Day Schools in Bristol, with 184 children in them, were entirely supported by the funds of the Institution; and several other Day Schools in Devonshire, Cornwall, Suffolk, Ireland, and Scotland were assisted with copies of the Holy Scriptures. Further, one Sunday School in Bristol, with 158 children, was entirely supported, and seven others, in Cornwall, Devonshire, Somersetshire, and Gloucestershire, with about 400 children in them, were assisted. Lastly, one Adult School, with 183 Adults, was entirely supported during this year.—The amount expended, during this year, on these various Schools, was 338l. 2s. 5d.
In connexion with all these Schools, I would suggest the following important matter for prayer. From March, 1884, to May, 26, 1855, there were 5,956 children in the Day Schools. In the Adult School there were 2,459 persons. The number of the Sunday School children amounted to 2,817. Thus, without reckoning the Orphans, 11,232 souls were brought under habitual instruction in the things of God in these Schools; besides the many thousands in the Schools in various parts of England, Ireland, Scotland, British Guiana, the West Indies, the East Indies, &c., which were to a greater or less degree assisted. Now, what I would especially request is, that all the disciples of the Lord Jesus, who take an interest in this work, would help me and my fellow-labourers with their prayers, that not only those who are at present under our instruction may be spiritually benefited, but particularly also, that God would be pleased to work mightily in the hearts of those who were once under our care, in bringing to their remembrance the truth which was then set before them. I am the more induced to make this request, as we frequently meet with young men or young women, who many years ago were under our care and instruction, who thankfully own the benefit they received when with us, and who are now believers in the Lord Jesus, though at the time they had given us little or no hope. Thus has the Lord afterwards been pleased to cause the seed to spring up and to bear fruit to His praise. During this year also we had again and again most encouraging instances of this kind brought before us.
The total sum expended during the 21 years, from March 5, 1834, to May 26, 1855, in connexion with the Schools, which were either entirely, or in part supported by the funds of this Institution, amounted to 7,204l. 12s. 8 1/4 d.
2. Great have been the efforts, made of late years, to spread error; therefore the disciples of the Lord Jesus should be especially active in seeking to spread the truth. Fearfully great, in particular, have been the efforts to rob the Church of Christ of the Word of God; on this account, all who love our Lord Jesus in sincerity, should seek, according to their ability, to spread the Holy Scriptures. On account, therefore, of the especial attempts made, of late years, once more to deprive the Church of Christ of God's unerring Holy Word, I have had it particularly laid upon my mind, in every way to embrace opportunities for circulating it, and especially to place it in the hands of the very poorest of the poor. In this way, not only in England, Wales and Scotland, but particularly in Ireland, we have sought to circulate the Holy Scriptures. And not only there, but also in Canada, British Guiana, the East Indies, Australia and China. Every open door, which the Lord was pleased to set before us, I have endeavoured to press into; and, in this service have been helped by many servants of Christ, who have sought out the most destitute persons, desirous of possessing a copy of the Holy Scriptures. With this we have also particularly sought to combine the supplying of aged persons, who are poor, with copies printed in large type. Our efforts have not been in vain. We have had instances brought before us of direct conversion, simply through reading the Holy Scriptures. Again, during this year also, our labours were owned in this part of the work. But though we have seen some fruit, we believe that the greater part by far will be manifested in the Day of the Lord. It has been given to us, by the help of the Lord, day by day to seek His blessing upon the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, and therefore we believe that our labour will not be in vain. We expect results.
The number of Bibles, New Testaments, and Portions of the Holy Scriptures, circulated from May 20, 1854, to May 26, 1855, is as follows:
693 Bibles were sold.
890 Bibles were given away.
950 New Testaments were sold.
748 New Testaments were given away.
82 copies of the Psalms were sold.
186 other small portions of the Holy Scriptures were sold.
There were circulated from March 5, 1834, to May 26, 1855, through the medium of this Institutions 13,949 Bibles, 9047 New Testaments, 188 copies of the Psalms, and 789 other small portions of the Holy Scriptures.
The total amount of the funds of this Institution, spent on the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, from March 5, 1834, to May 20, 1855, is 3389l. 10s. 1d. The amount spent during this year, 476l. 12s. 3d.
3. During this year there was spent of the funds of the Institution for missionary objects, the sum of 2081l. 3s. 2d. By this sum Fifty Seven Labourers in the word and doctrine, in various parts of the world, were to a greater or less degree assisted.
With reference to this part of the operations of the Institution, I have especially the joy of being able to communicate to the Christian reader, that the Lord was pleased, during this year, abundantly to bless the labours of many of the brethren whom I assisted. Again and again I had refreshing intelligence as to the fruit which resulted from their efforts. Many souls were brought to the knowledge of the Lord, through their labours during this year. And such heart-refreshing intelligence came to me not only from those labouring in various parts of the United Kingdom, but also from those who are serving the Lord in foreign countries. This calls for especial praise; but at the same time I would commend these dear brethren to the prayers of the saints, that they may be upheld by the Lord with reference to their bodily and mental strength, and especially that they may be sustained with patience, faith, love, perseverance, and endurance; for great and many are their difficulties. I would especially also request all, who love the Lord Jesus, to pray for more labourers in the Gospel; for I hear continually of fields which are unoccupied, and of open doors not entered into for lack of labourers.
The total amount of the funds of the Institution, spent on Missionary operations, from March 5, 1834, to May 20, 1855, was 16,115l. 0s. 5 1/2 d.
4. The fourth object of the Institution is, the circulation of such publications as may be beneficial, with the blessing of God, to benefit both believers and unbelievers. As it respects tracts for unbelievers, I seek especially to aim after the diffusion of such as contain the truths of the Gospel clearly and simply expressed; and as it respects publications for believers, I aim after the circulation of such as may be instrumental in directing their minds to those truths which in these last days are more especially needed, or which have been particularly lost sight of, and may lead believers to return to the written Word of God.
There was laid out for this object, from May 26, 1854, to May 26, 1855, the sum of 624l. 8s. 4d.; and there were circulated within this year 895,034 Tracts and Books.
The total number of all the Tracts and Books circulated from the beginning up to May 26, 1855, was 3,584,710.
The total amount of means, expended on this object, from Nov. 19, 1840, to May 26, 1855, is 2868l. 15s. 6 3/4 d.
We desire to be truly thankful to the Lord, for having intrusted us with means, and given us open doors, for the circulation of so many copies of the Holy Scriptures, and so many thousands of Tracts; and for having enabled us to assist again to such an extent preachers of the unsearchable riches of Christ; but we do not rest in this. Our trust was in the Lord for His blessing upon our efforts. Nor has He allowed us to wait upon Him in vain, during this year. We had not only very many answers to our prayers with regard to the obtaining of means, but also many answers to prayer as it respects fruit resulting from our labours. Thus also with reference to the circulation of Tracts. Again and again instances came before us in which souls were converted through the Tracts, which the Lord had allowed us to send out during the year. Among others, I would only mention, that an actor on the stage, to whom one of them was given, was brought to the knowledge of the Lord.
Tract distributors, who can afford to pay for Tracts, and who desire to procure Tracts from us, may obtain them for this purpose with a discount of one-half, or 50 per cent., from the retail price. I state this, as many be1ievers may not like to give away that which cost them nothing, and yet may, at the same time, wish to obtain as much as possible for their money. Applications for this should be made verbally or in writing to Mr. Stanley, at the Bible and Tract Warehouse, No. 34, Park-street, Bristol. To him, also, application may be made for specimen packets containing an assortment of the Tracts and small books which are kept. By sending 3s., 5s., 7s., or 10s. in postages to Mr. Stanley, No. 34, Park Street, Bristol, packets will be sent to any part of England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland, Jersey, Guernsey, &c., post paid, containing specimens to the amount of the postages sent.
A catalogue of the various books and tracts, sold at the above Warehouse, with their prices, may be had there, by applying either personally or by letter to Mr. Stanley.
5. The fifth object of the Institution is, to board, clothe, and Scripturally to educate destitute children who have lost both parents by death.
At the commencement of this period there were 298 Orphans in the New Orphan House on Ashley Down, Bristol. During the year there were admitted into it 39 Orphans, making 337 in all. Of these 337, two died during the year. Only two! We record this with particular gratitude. And even these two died through water on the brain. God helping us, we desire to trace His hand in everything; at the same time, the longer I am engaged in the Orphan work, and see the effects which are produced by regular habits, cleanliness, nourishing food, proper clothing, good ventilation, a healthy locality, &c., the more I am convinced, that at least one-half of the children among the poorer classes die for want of proper attention. I do not state this to find fault with them, but rather mention it in the way of pity and commiseration, to draw the attention of the public to the fact. If anywhere the mortality among children should be great, humanly speaking, it should be so among us, because we generally receive the children very young, and also, because the very fact of these children, while so young, having been bereaved of both parents by death, shows that their parents, generally speaking, were of a very sickly constitution. Indeed the greater part of the Orphans whom we have received, lost one or both parents through consumption. And yet, though such is the case, we have seen again and again, how children who came to us in a most diseased state, have, through proper attention, by the blessing of God, been brought out of that state, and are now very healthy. But we often receive children whose countenances at once show that they have not had sufficient food, or were in other respects greatly neglected. It was only as late as April 26, 1855, that the turn of 4 children came, to be received, all of the same family, from 5 to 9 years old. When these children were brought, it was evident that they were in a most deplorable state of health from the want of proper food. This was now the painful difficulty in which we found ourselves; if we received them, it was not at all unlikely, humanly speaking, that we should have great trial with them on account of their health, as they had been so long neglected; and yet, if we did not take them, they would, we had great reason to fear, very shortly sink under their position. Trust in God decided the matter. We received all four, hoping that, by God's blessing, they would be thus rescued from sinking under their circumstances. The eldest of the four, a boy of above nine years old, was for the first evening or two so weak, that he could not walk up stairs to the dormitory without stopping. This disappeared, after he had had the food of the New Orphan House for a few days; and now all the four are so greatly improved, that they do not look at all like what they were on April 26th, 1855. I have so minutely entered into this one case out of very many of the kind, which have come before me in connexion with the Orphan work during the last 20 years, in order to show how deeply important it is to care for such destitute Orphans, to rescue them, humanly speaking, from misery or premature death, to say nothing now with reference to their spiritual welfare, which is paramount with us.
Besides the two who died out of the 387, we were obliged to expel one from the establishment. This boy was admitted on Oct. 4, 1849. He was then not quite eight years old; but though so young, it was soon found out that he was old in sin, for he was a confirmed liar, thief, &c. He gloried in it among the other boys, and told them that he had belonged to a juvenile gang of thieves, before he had been admitted into the Orphan House, that he had often stolen from the ships iron, brass, &c., and sold it. We thought at first that he spoke thus merely in the way of boasting, but it proved but too true, that he was experienced in such matters; for twice he ran away from the Orphan House, carrying off things belonging to the other children. Moreover, he could pick locks, &c. We received him back twice, after having run away, hoping that, by bearing with him, admonishing him, speaking to him privately, praying with him, and using a variety of other means, he might be reclaimed; but all in vain. At last, having borne with him, and tried him for five years and four months, he was solemnly, with prayer, before the whole establishment, expelled, if by any means this last painful remedy might be blessed to him. Yet we follow even this poor young sinner with our prayers, and hope that yet the Lord may show him his evil ways, and give us even now joy concerning him, as we have had before in a similar instance. This case afresh deeply impressed upon me the importance of caring for Orphans from their earliest days; for this poor boy, when but eight years old, was already greatly practiced in stealing.
One of the children, after having been five years and one month under our care, was taken back by the relatives who had placed him with us, as they were by that time able to provide for him. One of the girls was sent out to learn a business, one as a junior teacher in a school, and 13 to take situations; and 21 boys were apprenticed. These 40 vacancies thus occasioned, left at the end of the year only 297 children in the New Orphan House. The total number of Orphans, under our care from April 1836, to May 26, 1855, was 597.
I notice further the following points respecting the New Orphan House.
1. Persons who desire to make application for the admission of Orphans, are requested to write to me, and address the letter to my house, No. 23, Paul Street, Kingsdown, Bristol.
2. I again state, as it regards the funds, that the income for the Orphans is kept distinct from that for the other objects. Donors may therefore contribute for one or the other of the objects exclusively, or have their donations equally divided among them all, just as it may appear best to themselves. If any of the donors would wish to leave the application of their donations to my discretion, as the work of God in my hands more especially may call for it at the time, they are requested, kindly to say so, when sending their donations.
3. The expenses for the Orphans, during this year, were 4304l. 4s. 7 1/2 d.
4. Without any one having been personally applied to for anything by me, the sum of 74132l. 6s. 10 3/4 d. was given to me for the Orphans, as the result of prayer to God, from the commencement of the work up to May 26, 1855, which sum includes the 15,055l 3s. 2 1/4 d. paid for the building, fitting up, and furnishing of the present New Orphan House, the 23,059l. 17s. 8 1/4 d., in hand on the 20th May, 1855, for the Building Fund, and the 116l. 17s. 8 1/2 d., the balance for the current expenses.—It may also be interesting to the reader to know that the total sum, given for the other objects, from the commencement of the work up to May 26, 1855, amounted to 25,239l. 8s. 10 3/4 d.; and that which came in by the sale of Bibles and Tracts, and by the payment of the children in the Day Schools, from the commencement, amounted to 4531l. 12s. 10 3/4 d.— Besides this, also a great variety and number of articles of clothing, furniture, provisions, &c., were given for the use of the Orphans.
5. I have the joy of being able to state that we have great cause for thankfulness, that, in the midst of many difficulties, our labours among the Orphans continue to be blessed, and that, especially, again and again instances now come before us in which those, who were formerly under our care, declare themselves on the Lord's side.
6. Besides being able to meet the expenses for the Orphans and the other Objects, amounting altogether to 7832l. 7s. 0 1/2 d. during this year, I was able to add to the Building Fund 5242l. 18s. 3d. The total income during the year was 13,054l. 14s. 4d.
7. The articles given for the benefit of the Orphans, are sold by Miss Stevens, on the first floor of the Bible and Tract Warehouse of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution, No. 34, Park Street, Bristol.
Matters connected with my own personal affairs, or the work of the Lord in my hands, not immediately connected with the Scriptural Know/edge Institution, from May 26, 1854, to May 26, 1855.
Dec. 31, 1854. During this year there have been received into fellowship 61.
The Lord has been pleased to give me during this year—
1. In provisions, clothes, etc., worth at least 8 14 0
2. In anonymous offerings in money, put up in paper and directed to me, and put into the boxes for the poor saints or the rent, at the chapels . . 191 1 11 1/2
3. In presents in money, from believers in Bristol, not given anonymously. . 143 12 10
4. In money, from believers not residing in Bristol . . . . . 854 2 7 1/2
—————-
L697 11 5
—————-
Some of my readers may be ready to exclaim, 697l. 11s. 5d.! What a large sum! Not one out of a hundred ministers has such a large salary, nor one out of twenty clergymen such a good living! Should you, esteemed reader, say so, my reply is: Indeed mine is a happy way for the obtaining of my temporal supplies; but if any one desires to go this way, he must—
1. Not merely say that he trusts in God, but must really do so. Often individuals profess to trust in God, but they embrace every opportunity, directly or indirectly, to expose their need, and thus seek to induce persons to help them. I do not say it is wrong to make known our wants; but I do say it ill agrees with trust in God, to expose our wants for the sake of inducing persons to help us. God will take us at our word. If we say we trust in Him, He will try whether we really do so, or only profess to do so; and if indeed we trust in Him, we are satisfied to stand with Him alone.
2. The individual who desires to go this way must be willing to be rich or poor, as the Lord pleases. He must be willing to know what it is to have an abundance or scarcely anything. He must be willing to leave this world without any possessions.
3. He must be willing to take the money in God's way, not merely in large sums but in small.—Again and again have I had a single shilling given or sent to me. To have refused such tokens of Christian love, would have been ungracious.
4. He must be willing to live as the Lord's steward.—If any one were to begin this way of living, and did not communicate out of that which the Lord gives to him, but hoard it up; or, if he would live up to his income, as it is called, then the Lord, who influences the hearts of His children, to help him with means, would soon cause those channels to be dried up. How it came that my already good income still more increased, so as to come to what it is, has been stated in the early part of this volume; it was when I determined that, by God's help, His poor and His work should more than ever partake of my means. From that time the Lord was pleased more and more to intrust me with means for my own purse. I request the reader carefully to read over once more all I have said in the first volume of this Narrative, third part, from page 575 to 604, on Matthew 6, 19-21, on Matthew 6, 33, and on "Stewardship."
Various reasons might have kept me from publishing these accounts; but I have for my object in writing, the glory of God, and therefore delight in thus showing what a loving master I serve, and how bountifully He supplies my necessities; and I write for the comfort and encouragement of my fellow believers, that they may be led to trust in God more and more, and therefore I feel it due to them to state, how, even with regard to this life, I am amply provided for, though that is not what I seek after.
Further account respecting the intended Orphan Houses for Seven Hundred
Poor Children, bereaved of both parents by death, from May 26, 1855, to
May 26, 1856.
On May 20, 1855, I had in hand for this object 23,059l. 17s. 8 1/4 d., as stated in the last chapter on this subject. I now relate how the Lord was pleased to supply me further with means, but must confine myself, for the sake of brevity, to some of the more remarkable donations.
June. 20. A silver medal "given to the donor for being engaged in the taking of Java; but he desires to lay down his honour at the feet of the Lord Jesus, and to have this medal used to lay a stone in the new building."
Aug. 4. From S. S. 5l., with 5l. for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, 5l. for Missions, and 5l. and the following articles for the support of the Orphans: A pair of gold mounted bracelets, a pair of jet bracelets, an iron watch guard, a pair of iron bracelets and waist buckle, a small gold seal, a ring, 2 pencil cases, a gold brooch, a purse and some mock pearls and beads.
Aug. 22. From Devonshire 100l.
Nov. 21. From Ipswich 2l., "The property of a dear child now in heaven."
Nov. 23. From London 50l., with 5l. for the circulation of Bibles and Tracts, 5l. for the Schools, 10l. for Missions, 10l. for the Orphans, 10l. for Mr. Craik, and 10l. for my own expenses.
Dec. 5. This evening I had the kind offer, unsolicited, that all the glass required, for about 300 large windows in the new house, which is now being built, should be gratuitously supplied. It is worthy of notice that the glass was not contracted for, this time, as in the case of the house already built. This, no doubt, was under the ordering of our Heavenly Father, who knew beforehand that this offer would be made.
Jan. 10, 1850. From Liverpool: A ring set with a brilliant, a gold bracelet, a Maltese bracelet, a brooch, a Maltese silver clasp and belt, a garnet ring, a pair of gold ear-rings, a box of whist markers, and German cross and chain.
Feb. 19. Now at last the Lord has been pleased, in answer to many prayers, to give me today 3000l., which being left to my disposal for the work of the Lord, I took for the Building Fund 1700l., for the support of the Orphans 300l., and for Missionary objects, the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts, and the support of the various Schools in connection with the Scriptural Knowledge Institution 1000l. How I feel at such times cannot be described, when in answer to many prayers, the Lord is pleased to open His bountiful hands, and to prove so abundantly how willing He is to listen to the supplications of His children who put their trust in Him, though it may be needful, for their own good and that of others, that for a season He seem but little or not at all to regard their supplications.
March 18. Received 4000l., which was left at my disposal as the work of the Lord might require it. I took of this sum 3000l. for the Building Fund, and 1000l. for Missions, the circulation of Bibles and Tracts, and the various schools, supported by the Institution.—This donation is the fruit of many prayers, and of much looking to the Lord for answers. His holy name be magnified for it. I am thus drawing nearer and nearer the time when I shall have obtained from the Lord everything needed for this object. I have not had, from the beginning, by God's grace, one moment's doubt, that in His own time, He would give me all that is required.
May 26. By sale of a publication in French 3l.—By sale of a publication in English 69l. 1s. 10d.—To these donations is to be added 911l. 8s. 1d., received during this year for interest.
I add a few remarks.
A. Up to May 20, 1856, the total income for the Building Fund was 29,297l. 18s. 11 1/2 d., so that only about 5700l. more will be required, as far as I am able to see, in order to accomplish to the full my purpose respecting the accommodation for 700 more Orphans.
B. The house for 400 female Orphans, commenced in August, 1855, is expected, with God's blessing to be ready by about Midsummer 1857 for the reception of 400 Orphans.
C. As soon as my path is made plain, God willing, the other house for 300 Orphans will also be commenced; but I cannot state, at present, any further particulars respecting this.
Supplies for the School—, Bible—, Missionary and Tract Fund, sent in answer to prayer, from May 26, 1855, to May 26, 1856.
On May 26, 1855, when the accounts were closed, there was in hand 41l. 6s. 11 1/2 d. for these objects. On June 5, 1855, therefore only a few days after the commencement of the new period, when only 1l. 0s. 6d. altogether had come in for these objects, in 8 different donations, I received 211l. 9s. 5d., of which the donor kindly wished me to retain 11l. 9s. 5d. for my own expenses, and to use the 200l. for the work of the Lord, as might be needed. I took, therefore, 100l. for the support of the Orphans, and 100l. for these objects, and had thus some means, to go on with the work. This donation was a great refreshment and encouragement to me, at the commencement of this new period.
July 12. Since June 5th little only, comparatively, has come in. All the donations for these objects were under 5l. Today, however, the Lord, in answer to many prayers, has sent me 200l., to be used as needed. I took of this donation 100l. for the Orphans, and 100l. for these objects, and have thus the means of being able to send some help to brethren who labour in the Gospel.
Aug. 9. Having had heavy expenses the last ten days, in order to help foreign labourers in the Gospel, and to procure supplies of Bibles, Testaments, and Tracts, our means for these objects were now reduced to 7l. 7s. 10 1/2 d. Yet I desired far more to help brethren who labour in the Word, as the greater party of them had not yet been supplied. I therefore besought the Lord, that He would be pleased to send in means. When I came home this evening from the New Orphan House, I found the following letter, from the same believing farmer, whom the Lord has several times used in previous years, to help me when in need.
"* * * * Aug. 8, 1855.
"Dear Brother in Christ,
"I feel stirred up to help you in the work in which you are engaged, and therefore beg your acceptance of the enclosed Twenty Pounds, to be used in any way you please, trusting God will direct you.
Yours affectionately in Christ,
"* * * *"
I took the whole amount for Missionary objects and the circulation of
Bibles and Tracts.
Aug. 25. The outgoings from these objects have been great, during this month, and the income comparatively small. On this account the means for these objects were reduced today to a few shillings. As the opportunities for the gratuitous circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Gospel Tracts, however, continued to be great, and as I had been only able to send out about the third part as much to labourers in the Gospel, as I could have desired, my prayer during this week had been especially for means for this object. Now the Lord has somewhat helped us. I have received today a donation of 203l. 14s., the whole of which I took for these objects, as the application of it was left with me. The Lord be magnified for this precious help! I shall be able to send at least 150l. of this sum to labourers in the Gospel.— About 3 hours, before this donation was received, I had been asking the Lord, if He would not condescend to use me as an instrument, at this time, in helping these brethren, He would kindly in some other way supply them with means.
Sept. 1. From Dublin 5l. for missions.
Sept. 11. From C. W. 20l. for foreign labourers in the Gospel. A precious help in answer to many prayers.
Sept. 20. Received 190l., of which I took 100l. for these objects, in order to be able to send some help to brethren who labour in the Word, and to have means for going on with the circulation of Bibles and Tracts; and the remaining 90l. I took for the support of the Orphans. Precious help, the fruit of many prayers!
Sept. 30. From Clerkenwell for missions 10l.
Oct. 13. 20l. from Austin Friars, London. I had been praying again and again for more means for these objects, and had sent out 100l. within the last few days to brethren who labour in the Word, but desired to send out more.
Oct. 23. From London 20l.
Nov. 6th. Since Oct. 16th I had not been able to send any further help to brethren who labour in the Word, much as I desired to do so, having only means enough to meet the necessary demands for the Schools, and the circulation of Bibles and Tracts, which amounted, from that time, to about 120l. But I prayed daily for means for missionary objects and the circulation of Bibles and Tracts. Today I received 180l., the whole of which I have taken for these objects, as the disposal of it was left to me, having great reason to believe that many labourers in the Gospel are in need of help, and having still so many openings for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts. The Lord be magnified for this precious answer to prayer!
Dec. 13. During November I was enabled to send 200l. to brethren who labour in the Gospel at Home and Abroad, and also 197l. in October; but during this month I have as yet been only able to send out 12l. My often repeated prayer has been, that the Lord would give me the joy and privilege of sending out a considerable sum during this month also. This prayer was again repeated, when I rose this morning, and saw the windows covered with ice; for I thought then of the needy brethren in this cold weather, connected with the high price of provisions. It was not long after, when I received 153l., to be used in the Lord's service, as most needed. I took of this, 100l. for brethren labouring in the Gospel at Home and Abroad, and 53l. for the support of the Orphans, and thus have the joy of being able to send at least 100l. at once, waiting upon the Lord for more.
Jan. 31, 1850. As the fruit of very many prayers, I have received today 100l., the whole of which I have put to these funds, the application of the money being left with me; as there was nothing at all left now for the circulation of Bibles and Tracts, and the various Schools, and as I had often asked the Lord to allow me further the joy of sending help to brethren who labour in the Word, to whom since Dec. 14th I had been able to send scarcely anything.
From this time there were no further difficulty experienced with regard to means, for these objects, as on Feb. 19th there was received the donation of 3000l., and on March 18th the donation of 4000l., of each of which, as stated before, I took 1000l. for the School—, Bible—, Missionary—and Tract objects, whereby, together with what came in besides, I was not only carried to the close of this period, but was enabled to expend more on Missionary objects, and the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Tracts, than during any previous year, since the Institution commenced in March, 1834. Let it be especially observed by the Godly reader, that not only does this work continue to exist, after more than 22 years, carried on solely through the power of prayer and faith in the Living God; but also year by year its operations have been extended. Unbelief is thus put to shame. It is plainly proved that the work of God can be carried on simply by trust in God. If our work is indeed the work of God, faith and prayer will be found efficient agents; and if they are not efficient, we may well question, whether we do indeed make use of them; or, if we do, whether the work, in which we are occupied, is truly the work of God.
Notice here also, that not only was I enabled, simply through prayer and faith, to procure means for a greater amount of operations than during any year since March 1834; but, over and above all this, I was able to add to the Building Fund during this year 6238l. 1s. 3 1/4 d., whilst the income for the support of the Orphans was 4070l. 18s. 1 1/4 d., and the income for the other objects 4279l. 6s. 6 1/4 d. The total amount, therefore, which the Lord was pleased to send in during the past year, was 14,588l. 5s. 10 3/4 d. Behold, dear Reader, how effectual this way is for the obtaining of means; for the amount is large. Behold too, how pleasant a way it is; for I have not to encounter unpleasant refusals, in applying for money. Behold how cheap a way; for it involves none of the heavy expenses, usually attendant on the collection of contributions; for all I do is, to make known the work in which we are engaged, by means of the Reports, which are for the most part sold for the benefit of the Orphans, and they actually brought in during this year, as the audited accounts show, a little more than they cost.
But, perhaps, you say, Yes, it is just these Reports, why there is nothing at all remarkable in the matter. Our reply is: We do not pretend to miracles. We have no desire even, that the work, in which we are engaged, should be considered an extraordinary one, or even a remarkable one. We are truly sorry that many persons, inconsiderately, look upon it almost as a miraculous one. The principles on which we are acting are as old as the Holy Scriptures. But they are forgotten by many; and they are not held in living faith by others; and by some they are not known at all; nay, they are denied even to be Scriptural by not a few, and are considered as wild and fanatical. It is ascribed to my being a foreigner that I succeed so well, or to the novelty of the thing, or to some secret treasure to which I have access; but when all will not account for the progress of the work, it is said, the Reports produce it all. My reply to these different objections is: My being a foreigner, looked at naturally, would be much more likely to hinder my being intrusted with such large sums, than to induce donors to give. As to the novelty procuring the money, the time is long gone by for novelty, for this is June 1856, and the work commenced in March 1834. As to the secret treasure to which I have access, there is more in this supposition than the objectors are aware of; for surely God's treasury is inexhaustible, and I have that (though that alone) to go to, and have indeed drawn out of it, simply by prayer and faith, more than 113,000l. since the beginning of the work. But now as to the last objection, that the Reports are the means by which all the money is obtained: let us consider this a little, for I do heartily desire that the Reader may not lose the blessing, which this Institution is intended to convey to his soul. My reply is: There is nothing unusual in writing Reports. This is done by public Institutions generally, but the constant complaint is, that Reports are not read. Our Reports are not extraordinary as to the power of language, or as to striking appeals to feelings. They are simple statements of facts. These Reports are not accompanied by personal application for means; but they are simply sent to the donors, or to any other individuals who wish to have or purchase them. If they produce results, which Reports generally do not, I can only ascribe it to the Lord.
I do not mean to say that God does not use the Reports as instruments in procuring us means. They are written in order that I may thus give an account of my stewardship, but particularly, in order that, by these printed accounts of the work, the chief end of this Institution may be answered, which is to raise another public testimony to an unbelieving world, that in these last days the Living God is still the Living God, listening to the prayers of His children, and helping those who put their trust in Him; and in order that believers generally may be benefited and especially be encouraged to trust in God for everything they may need, and be stirred up to deal in greater simplicity with God respecting everything connected with their own particular position and circumstances; in short, that the children of God maybe brought to the practical use of the Holy Scriptures, as the word of the Living God.— But while these are the primary reasons for publishing these Reports, we doubt not that the Lord has again and again used them as instruments in leading persons to help us with their means. For as we continually stand in need of considerable sums, and as even hundreds of pounds go but a very little way, I entreat the Lord day by day, and generally several times every day, to supply me with means, to speak to the hearts of His dear children, and to constrain them by the love of Christ to help me out of the means, with which He has intrusted them; and so it comes to pass, I doubt not, that the Lord again and again works by His Spirit in the hearts of those who have read or heard the Reports. But whether we are supplied with means through the Reports or irrespective of them; in either case it is God, who is working for us, and it is to this I wish to direct the mind of the Reader.
Means for the support of the 300 Orphans already under my care, sent in answer to Prayer, from May 26, 1855, to May 26, 1856.
When this period commenced, I had 116l. 17s. 8 1/2 d. in hand for the support of the Orphans, an amount so small, looking at it naturally, that one would be ready to say, there would be soon nothing in hand. Thus indeed it would have been, had the Lord not been pleased further to send in means; but He, in His fatherly care, never ceased to remember our need and to provide for its supply. The expenses were very heavy, month after month, not only because of the greatness of the Establishment, but in particular also on account of the high price of provisions, which prevailed during the whole of last year; yet, notwithstanding this, there was not a single year, since the Orphan work commenced, in which I went on with greater ease regarding means, than during the last period. At the close of the first month, June 26th, though the expenses had been great, there remained 192l. 9s. 11 1/2 d. in hand. At the close of the second month, July 26th, there was a balance left of 259l. 4s. At the close of the third month, Aug. 26th, there was left a balance of 291l. 19s. 2d. And in like manner the Lord was pleased to supply me with means, month after month, so that when He was pleased to give me on Feb. 19th the donation of 3000l., above referred to, I had still 160l. in hand for the support of the Orphans. It is particularly worthy of notice, that the income for the support of the Orphans was not supplied by some very large donations, previous to the one of 3000l.; for there was no period for about ten years, when I received fewer large donations for the support of the Orphans, than during the last. It was supplied by many donations of 1l., 2l., 5l., 10l., 20l. and upwards, but not exceeding 100l., except one of 117l. 10s. 0d. received on May 3rd, and the 300l. which I took for the Orphans out of the 3000l. And again it is remarkable, that while up to Feb. 19th we had always abounded, and were never brought low, but generally had had about 200l in hand; almost immediately after the reception of the 3000l., out of which I took 300l. for the support of the Orphans, the balance, before in hand, was all expended, and more money required; so that I had soon to use a part of the 300l., whereby the hand of God in that large donation was so much the more made manifest; and yet, again, this 300l., with what the Lord was pleased to send in besides between Feb. 19th and May 26th, not only met all the remaining heavy expenses, but left in hand a balance of 167l. 18s. 11 3/4 d.
Observe, dear Reader, while we were in rented houses in Wilson Street, we had our faith greatly tried, year after year, though the expenses were only about one-third as much, as during the past year. And thus also it has been again and again, since the New Orphan House was opened in 1849; but during the past year we were entirely free from trial of faith regarding means for the support of the Orphans, though not without many trials of faith and patience on other accounts. The Lord takes His own way, and therefore He allows this year to stand by itself, in this particular. On this I delight to dwell; for I desire that the hand of God may be recognised in this work, whether it be by His power being manifested in sustaining us in our poverty from day to day, or by His causing us to go on easily with regard to means for a day, or a month, or a year. You see, then, that while there was but like "a handful of flour in the barrel," at the commencement of the period, the Lord was pleased to make it last for a whole year, and yet, at the end of the year, there was more than at the beginning; and during the whole year all these hundreds had been fed, clothed, and provided with everything needful; apprentices had been placed out and premiums paid for them, and their outfit and that of the young women going out to service had been provided at the expense of the Orphan Establishment. What an answer does all this furnish to unbelief which said, when I was going to build the New Orphan House, How will you find the means for the support of these 300 Orphans? Or, when unbelief said, How will you be able to support a thousand Orphans?
I will now out of the very many donations, received during this year, single out a few, and make here and there remarks, as the subjects may call for it.
June 1, 1855. The balance left when the accounts were closed, was only enough to supply the average expenses of ten days for the support of the Orphans, and there had only been received during the last 5 days 14l. 13s. 7d. How kind therefore of the Lord, to send me today 50l. from Liverpool, 1l. from Preston, and 10s. from Milton Abbot!
June 5. 5l. from Lincolnshire "As a thank-offering to the Lord for preserving the only child of a widow from the path of the destroyer."
June 8. A gold chain, some books for sale, and 15l.
June 19. 5l. as "A thank-offering to the Lord for preservation when thrown out of a gig."
July 10. From Worcestershire 25l.
July 12. Received from a great distance 200l., of which I took 100l. for the support of the Orphans, and 100l. for the other objects. There has also come in today 20l. from Norwich, 1l. from Bath, 4s. from Chepstow, 7s. 6d. from Mallow, 1l. from Dublin, a gold seal and sixpence, and 13s. and 6s. 9d. besides. The Lord's kindness is great in this, as a fresh supply of oatmeal, flour, &c., will need to be paid for, other heavy expenses have to be met, and there is not much in hand.
July 14. An Israelitish gentleman, an entire stranger, brought to my house this morning 5l. for the support of the Orphans. See in what a variety of ways the Lord is pleased to supply us with means, and all unsolicited, simply in answer to prayer!
Aug. 17. From Messrs. * * * 7l. 10s. 0d., being a portion of the money received for showing the "British Empire" before she left Bristol. Observe again, esteemed Reader, what a variety of ways the Lord uses to supply me with means; for I had not before even heard of the name of this vessel, nor did I know her owners, even by name; yet God inclines the heart of these gentlemen to send me this 7l. 10s. 0d. towards the support of the 300 Orphans.—Anonymously from Wilton 4s., as "A thank-offering to God for His mercies on a journey."
Aug. 21. From Worcestershire 30l.
Sept. 6. From the Bombay Presidency 25l.
On Sept. 12, were sent by the donor who gave so valuable a donation of jewellery on July 26, 1854, the following articles of jewellery, etc., being the last she possessed, and which the love of Christ led her to give up: A valuable dressing case, 2 little boxes, 2 pomatum pots, a gold thimble, a large gold brooch set with a ruby and 2 brilliants, a gold star necklace set with a brilliant, a gold bracelet, a gold watchguard, a gold cross, 2 rings set with pearls, a ring set with pearls and small rubies, a ring set with 2 brilliants, a ring set with 3 rubies and 2 brilliants, a pair of gold earrings and brooch set with pearls, a large ivory brooch, a silver brooch set with pearls, a silver pencil case, a paste brooch, 5 loose crystals, and some small carved ornaments.
Sept. 26. Received a large cask containing the wearing apparel of the late Mrs. H. at J. in the county of Leicester, which this lady, by her will, had bequeathed to me for the benefit of the Orphans.
Oct. 3. Received the following letter.
"* * *, Oct. 8, 1855.
Dear Mr. Mueller,
The enclosed check for 8l. 1s. 4d. is chiefly the product of a sale for the Orphans, which we held on our sister's wedding-day, and hoping it will be acceptable,
We remain,
Your's affectionately,
* * * * *."
The Orphans on Ashley Down were to be benefited by the day of gladness in this Godly family.—The Godly principle, which brought this donation, refreshed my spirit above the money, and, I doubt not, will refresh other Godly readers.—Let me here say, by the way, to believing parents, Seek to cherish in your children early the habit of being interested about the work of God and about cases of need and distress, and use them too at suitable times, and under suitable circumstances, as your almoners, and you will reap fruit from doing so.
Oct. 10. From Surrey 5s. and a gold chain.—From a shepherd in Australia, who had read my Narrative while tending his flock, 12s.— See how the lady near London sends her gold chain, and the shepherd in Australia his 12s.—Thus the Lord, in the greatest variety of ways supplies me with means, for the greater part through entire strangers. Thus I received one hundred pounds after another, anonymously, through London bankers, until a particular circumstance made known to me the name of the kind Christian donor, whom I have seen but once years ago, and who had, at the same time, sent me considerable donations with his name, whilst his bankers, anonymously, sent his still larger donations of many hundred pounds. I dwell upon this fact, that the reader may be led to own increasingly the hand of God in this work; for I desire that He may be honoured, that His hand may be recognised, and that attention may be drawn to Him, and not to me. It gives me no joy but sorrow, if persons admire me, in connexion with this work, as if I did anything great; as if I acted in a remarkable way. What is it that I do? I simply desire, through this work, to direct the attention of those who need it to the precious truth, that God is unchangeably the same, and that those who take Him at His word, as given to us in the Holy Scriptures, will find how unspeakably blessed it is, even for this life, to do so. To bring back to the written word of God those of His children, who practically have departed from it, and to sound again and again in the ears and consciences of the unbeliever that there is verily a living God who listens to the prayers of those who put their trust in Him, is, as I have often before stated, the great end of this work.
Oct. 11. To day I received, unsolicited, a kind and useful present of flannel and calico, to the amount of 10l., from the ladies constituting the Bristol Dorcas Society.
Oct. 18. "Articles forwarded by friends at a distance," an anonymous but most valuable donation, the particulars of which I am not at liberty to state.—The kind unknown donor or donors should, however, know, that very many pounds have been realized through the sale of these articles, and that they were almost all readily sold.
I cannot help noticing here, how much help the Lord has given us, in disposing of the articles, given for the benefit of the Orphans, and what a considerable sum has come to the funds of the Institution through the fact that believers have been led to send their needless articles. There came in by the sale of articles during the past year, for the Building Fund 21l. 16s. 7d., for missionary objects 15l. 6s. 4d., and for the support of the Orphans 426l. 14s. 9d.
Oct. 27. From Devonshire 4l. "The proceeds of the sale of the Orphans pig." A young pig bought, fattened and sold for the benefit of the Orphans, and this 4l. was sent as the proceeds.
Nov. 3. From St. Leonard's-on-Sea 50l.
Nov. 4. A ring set with 5 brilliants.
Nov. 16. From Yate 10l. and also 5s.
Nov. 19. From New York 25l. From Bath 10l.
Flour is now 65s. per sack. When we began to bake in the New Orphan
House, it was from 27s. to 32s. We bought at one time 20 sacks at 27s.
Now it is 65s. But the Lord provides us with all we need, though other
provisions are also expensive, as well as flour.
Dec. 11. From the north of Devon a brooch, set with an emerald and 10 brilliants.—I took this as a further answer to my prayers, for gifts of diamonds, etc.
Jan. 4, 1856. 42l. 4s. 6d. with these words; "This is the answer of prayers, we have of late without ceasing offered up on behalf the Orphans."—This is one of the most remarkable donations received during the whole year. A brother and sister in the Lord, who labour for Him in seeking to win souls, whilst depending upon Him for all they need, gave themselves to prayer on behalf of the Orphans, and that which the Lord gave them towards the close of the yean 1855, in answer to prayer, enabled them to send this 42l. 4s. 6d. See, dear Reader, that the saints have power with God. This brother and sister have been greatly encouraged by this work, and now, even in the way of means, though they are poor themselves, this work reaps the fruit of their prayers. Be encouraged, then, for yourself to trust in God for all you may need.
Jan.30, 1l. 5s. from Stroud, as "a thank-offering for 25 years of family mercies."
Feb. 3. From Worcestershire 30l.
Feb. 0. From George Town, Demerara, 10 dollars.—From South Town 5l and also 5s.—From Liverpool 50l.
Feb. 9. From Adelaide, Australia, 2l. and also 10s.
Feb. 15. From Hornley, Staffordshire, 20l.
April 5. Received 74l. 9s. 1d., which being left to my disposal for the
Lord's work, I took the whole for the support of the Orphans.
April 9. From Worcestershire 50l.
April 19. 1l. from the Grand Duchy of Baden.
I have thus, out of more than 2000 donations, taken a few, to show in what way the Lord is pleased to supply me with means.
Miscellaneous points respecting the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad, with reference to the period from May 26, 1855, to May 26, 1856.
1, During this year 4 Day Schools in Bristol, with 203 children, were entirely supported by the funds of the Institution; and nine Day Schools, in Devonshire, Cornwall, Gloucestershire, Norfolk, Scotland, British Guiana and Africa, were assisted.—Further, one Sunday School in Bristol, with 158 children, was entirely supported, and eight others, in Gloucestershire, Devonshire, Middlesex, Canada and British Guiana, were assisted.—Lastly, one Adult School in Bristol, with 158 Adult scholars, was entirely supported, and two other Adult Schools, in Kent and Norfolk, were assisted. The amount spent during this year, in connexion with these schools, was 348l. 5s. 11 1/4 d.; and the sum total expended during the last 22 years in connexion with the schools, either entirely, or in part, supported by the funds of this Institution, amounts to 7552l. 18s. 7 1/2 d.—The number of children, who were under our care, merely in the Schools, entirely supported by this Institution, from March 5, 1834, to May 20, 1856, was 6104 in the Day Schools, 2911 in the Sunday Schools, and 2611 persons in the Adult School. Thus, without reckoning the Orphans, 11,626 persons have been brought under habitual instruction in the things of God in these various Schools; besides the many thousands in the Schools in various parts of England, Ireland, Scotland, British Guiana, the East Indies, etc., which have been to a greater or lesser degree assisted.
2, During this year was expended on the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, of the funds of this Institution, 496l. 10s. 0d. There were circulated during this year 2175 Bibles, 1233 New Testaments, 119 copies of the Psalms, and 155 other small portions of the Holy Scriptures.— There have been circulated since March 5, 1834, through the medium of this Institution, 16,124 Bibles, 10,280 New Testaments, 307 copies of the Psalms, and 944 other small portions of the Holy Scriptures.—The sum total spent on the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, since March 5, 1834, is 3880l. 0s.1d.
3. During this year there were spent of the Funds of the Institution for Missionary objects 2501l. 9s. 1d. By this sum, sixty one labourers in the word and doctrine, in various parts of the world, were to a greater or less degree assisted. The amount sent to each of these servants of the Lord is as follows.
To No. 1. Labouring in British Guiana (a European) 171l.
To No. 2. Ditto (Ditto) 110l.
To No. 3. Ditto (Ditto) 62l.
To No. 4. Ditto (Ditto) 58l.
To No. 5. Ditto (Ditto) 48l.
To No. 6. Ditto (Ditto) 33l.
To No. 7. Ditto (Ditto) 8l.
To No. 8 Ditto (A Native) 17l.
To No. 9 Ditto (Ditto) 14l.
To No. 10. Labouring in China (a European) 14l.
To No. 11. Labouring in the East Indies (a European) 60l.
To No. 12. Ditto (Ditto) 40l.
To No. 13. Ditto (Ditto) 25l.
To No 14. Ditto (a Native) 15l.
To No. 15 Labouring in Canada 90l.
To No. 16. Ditto 70l.
To No. 17. Labouring in Belgium 45l.
To No. 18. Labouring in Switzerland 30l.
To No. 19. Labouring in France 30l.
To No. 20. Labouring in Ireland 60l.
To No. 21. Ditto 45l.
To No. 22. Labouring in Scotland 60l.
To No. 23 Labouring in England 90l.
To No. 24. Ditto 80l.
To No. 25. Ditto 60l.
To No. 26. Ditto 60l.
To No. 27. Ditto 58l.
To No. 28. Ditto 50l.
To No. 29. Ditto 50l.
To No. 30. Ditto 50l.
To No. 31. Ditto 50l.
To No. 32. Ditto 45l.
To No. 33. Ditto 45l.
To No. 34. Ditto 45l.
To No. 35. Ditto 40l.
To No. 36. Ditto 40l.
To No. 37. Ditto 40l.
To No. 38. Ditto 35l.
To No. 39. Ditto 35l.
To No. 40. Ditto 35l.
To No. 41. Ditto 35l.
To No. 42. Ditto 30l.
To No. 43. Ditto 30l.
To No. 44. Ditto 30l.
To No. 45. Ditto 30l.
To No. 46. Ditto 25l.
To No. 47. Ditto 25l.
To No. 48. Ditto 25l.
To No. 49. Ditto 20l.
To No. 50. Ditto 20l.
To No. 51. Ditto 20l.
To No. 52. Ditto 15l.
To No. 53. Ditto 15l.
To No. 54. Ditto 15l.
To No. 55. Ditto 15l.
To No. 56. Ditto 10l.
To No. 57. Ditto 8l.
To No. 58. Ditto 8l.
To No. 59. Ditto 8l.
To No. 60. Ditto 5l.
To No. 61. Ditto 5l.
There was also expended for fitting up, or renting, lighting, cleaning, &c., some preaching rooms in spiritually dark villages in Devonshire, Gloucestershire, and Somersetshire, 38l. 9 1
Respecting this part of the work there is great cause for thanksgiving. It has pleased the Lord abundantly to bless the labours of many of these servants of Christ whom I have assisted. Very many souls have been won through them during the past year. On the labours of some in particular, both at home and abroad, an unusual blessing has rested. But whilst I say this to the praise of the Lord, I add the earnest entreaty also, to the believing reader, to supplicate for these dear brethren, that it may please God to give unto them strength of voice, mind and body for their service; but, above all, to renew them in their inward man day by day, and to make them happy in Himself, so that they may out of a happy heart, which is under the power of the truth, set forth the unsearchable riches of Christ. I also request the prayers of the believing reader for an increase of labourers, especially for foreign countries, as almost everywhere there is a great lack of them, and from time to time through death or ill health they are removed from their post of service.
Though more has been expended this year of the funds of the Institution, than during the previous year, for Missionary objects; yet I long to be permitted to do far more than this.
The sum total expended on Missionary operations, of the funds of the
Institution, since March 5, 1834, is 18,616l. 9s. 6 1/2 d.
4, There was laid out for the circulation of Tracts, from May 26, 1855, to May 26, 1856, the sum of 791l. 1s. 0 1/2 d., and there were circulated 812,970 Tracts and Books.—The sum total expended on this object, since. Nov. 19, 1840, amounts to 3659l. 16s. 7 1/4 d.—The total number of all the Tracts and Books circulated since Nov. 19, 1840, is 4,397,680.
During this year, as for many years past, there has not been a single open door set before us, where we could profitably have circulated the Holy Scriptures, or given away Tracts, but the Lord has also been pleased to enable us to enter those doors. These opportunities have of late years increased more and more, but the Lord has also been pleased, along with them, to give increased means; and, we doubt not, He will yet further open His bountiful hand, and supply us with means for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures and Gospel Tracts.
I have heard again and again of instances, during the past year in which it had pleased the Lord to bless the circulation of those Tracts and little books, which He had allowed us to issue.
5, At the beginning of this period, there were 297 Orphans in the New Orphan House. During the past year, there were admitted into it 25 Orphans, making 322 in all. Of these 322, one died. Only one! She had been nine years under our care, and we had the great joy of seeing her depart this life as a decided believer in the Lord Jesus. One boy we were obliged to expel from the Institution, after we had long borne with him, but we follow him still with our prayers. 13 boys were fitted out and apprenticed at the expense of the Establishment. Seven girls were sent to service and one was apprenticed, each having been provided with an outfit, at the expense of the Establishment. Several of those who left the Orphan House, we had the joy of sending out as believers. These 23 vacancies, thus occasioned, left on May 26, 1856, only 299 Orphans under our care. This one vacancy, however, was the very next Friday filled up. The total number of Orphans, who have been under our care since April 1836, is 622.
I notice further the following points respecting the Orphan work:
1, At the beginning of this period, there were 715 Orphans waiting for admission. Since then 201 more destitute Orphans, bereaved of both parents by death, and some only a few months old, have been applied for to be admitted, making 916 in all. Of these 916, we were only able to receive 25, as has been stated, and 44 either died or were otherwise provided for, as their relatives or friends informed us; so that there are still 847 waiting for admission. Dear Reader, think of these 847 destitute Orphans, bereaved of both parents! As for myself, I have now before me the most pleasant and heart-refreshing prospect, if the Lord permit, of being able to receive 400 of them about June or July 1857, and also of being permitted to build the third house for 300 more.
2, The average expense for each of the Orphans under our care, during the past year; amounted to 12l. 6s. 8d.
3, Without any one having been personally applied to for anything by me, the sum of 84,441l. 6s. 3 1/4 d. has been given to me for the Orphans, as the result of prayer to God, since the commencement of the work. The total sum given for the other objects, since the commencement of the work, amounts to 28,904l. 11s. 3 3/4 d.; and that which has come in by the sale of Bibles and Tracts, and by the payments of the children in the Day Schools, from the commencement up to May 26, 1856, amounts to 5,145l. 17s. 0d. Besides this, also a great variety and number of articles of clothing, furniture, provisions, etc., have been given for the use of the Orphans.
4, The Lord is pleased to continue to allow us to see fruit in connexion with the Orphan work, and we hear still again and again of cases, in which those, who were formerly under our care, have been led to declare themselves openly for the Lord, besides those, in whom we saw the work of grace manifestly begun, before they left the Orphan House.
5, The total of the current expenses for the Orphans and the various other objects of the Institution, was 8166l. 8s. 5 1/4 d. during the past year.
Matters connected with my own personal affairs, from May 26, 1855, to
May 26, 1856.
Dec. 31, 1855. During this year the Lord has been pleased to give me
1. By anonymous donations through the boxes . . . . . . L202 10 9 1/4
2. Through donations from believers in Bristol, not anonymously . . 149 13 9
3. Through donations from believers not residing in Bristol . . . 301 15 8
4. Through presents in clothes, provisions, etc., worth at least . . . 12 16 0
———
L726 10 2 1/4
This, dear Reader, is the writer's statement after having acted on these principles for more than 25 years. You see, not for a week, a month, or even a year, how the writer has been dealt with by the Lord, after he had set out in this way; but, in all simplicity he has related to you, how it has been with him year after year. And now, after more than 25 years, he is still acting on these principles, and is more than ever convinced of their truthfulness and their blessedness; and he is delighted in being able to prove to you, to God's honour, that even for this life he has been no loser by acting out the light which the Lord has been pleased to give to him.