Memoirs of the Rev. David Stoner : containing copious extracts from his diary and epistolary correspondence

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MEMOIRS

THE REV. DAVID STONER

CONTAINING

COPIOUS EXTRACTS FROM HIS DIARY

EPISTOLARY CORRESPONDENCE.

No man is really happy, rational, virtuous, amiable, but the true
Christian. How free from pride is his consciousness of union
with the Deity ! How free from meanness, the humility
which levels him with the worms of the earth !

CRAIG'S PASCAL.

TENTH EDITION.

LONDON :

WESLEYAN CONFERENCE OFFICE,

2, CASTLE-STREET, CITY-ROAD;

SOLD AT 66, PATERNOSTER-ROW.

BX

9495'

EAV. *

;t

;t

PREFACE.

SHORTLY after the lamented death of Mr. Stoner, several
of his friends, who sincerely valued his excellencies, and
cherished a pleasing though mournful recollection of his
labours, expressed a desire that a record of his life, in a
separate and distinct form, should he prepared for publi
cation with all convenient speed. Such a record, they
imagined, would be highly gratifying to the large circle of
his acquaintance, and not wholly unacceptable to others
who had heard of him only by report. The compilers of
these sheets, whose local situation appeared advantageous
for the collection of materials, were requested to arrange
the work thus suggested, and present it to the public.

To their minds one difficulty occurred. They feared that
such a publication would be thought to interfere with the
cl.iims of the \\Vsleyan- Methodist Magazine, — the vehicle
in which, according to the equitable usages of the Con
nexion, biographical accounts of its departed Ministers are
generally conveyed. This difficulty, however, was speedily
removed by the promptitude and kindness of the Uev. Dr.
M'Allum, who engaged to furnish a memoir of his esteemed
friend for the valuable periodical above mentioned, of as
large a size as its pages, occupied as they are with other im
portant matter, could conveniently admit. Dr. M'Allum's
very elegant and interesting sketch appeared in the Maga-
A 2

ir PREFACE.

zine for May, 1827. By his permission, granted with his
usual frankness and urbanity, the compilers have gratefully
availed themselves of its contents, particularly in narrating
Mr. Stoner's proceedings while at York, and in describing
the virtues which adorned his exemplary character. To
offer their public thanks to the Doctor is now, alas ! too
late. He also has finished his earthly course in the prime
of his days, leaving in the hearts of all who knew him a
deep and tender regret, that one so amiable, gifted, and
promising, should be withdrawn so soon from the circle of
his social intercourse and ministerial exertions.

From Mr. Stoner's manuscripts the compilers proceeded
to make such a selection as they deemed most suitable to
their purpose, and also applied to many of his friends in
different parts of the country for facts, letters, or other
communications. They soon found themselves placed
under very agreeable obligations ; for their applications
were immediately met with a cheerfulness and confidence,
which they beg most affectionately to acknowledge. The
names of their esteemed correspondents — with one or two
exceptions, where secrecy was desired — will appear in con
nexion with their contributions ; and if this work be at all
calculated to accomplish the important objects for which
it is prepared, it will undoubtedly prove a source of much
satisfaction to those who have thus promoted its compila
tion, that to their kind attention and assistance no small
part of its worth is justly attributable.

Ample materials were quickly obtained ; — but it seemed
at first rather difficult to fix upon such a plan as would
bring them into the most profitable use. They were not
sufficient to form a regular piece of biography, unaccom
panied by observations ; and they were too valuable to be
merged in a continued narration, without any distinct
reference or lengthened citation. To the compilers it

PKRKAC1 . V

•ppeared most advisable to divide the whole work into
chapters, corresponding to the leading periods of Mr.
Stoner's life, with the reserve of one chapter, in conclusion,
for a delineation of his character, — to arrange the different
facts and extracts with as much attention to chronological
accuracy as was practicable, or necessary, — and to enrich
each chapter with as many extracts as their collections
afforded, without descending to tedious minuteness, or
indulging in needless repetitions. They have used much
diligence to secure correctness even in matters seemingly
trivial, for they think that the very circumstances of sacred
truth demand attention ; and they have interspersed such
reflections as were suggesttii by the successive events
which they record. These may in themselves he sufficiently
obvious and common ; but it is hoped that they will derive
some, interest and force from the bright example with
which they are associated.

Not a few of Mr. Stoner's connexions and general ac
quaintance have urged the propriety of appending speci
mens of his sermons to the Memoirs. This tin compilers
once intended : — but they were restrained cliicrly by two
considerations : first, that the addition of such specimens
would greatly increase the size of the volume, extended
perhaps already beyond its just limits ; and, secondly,
that some purpose is entertained, if circumstances en
courage it, of publishing a selection of the sermons in a
separate form. From a cursory examination <>l .Mi. burner's
discourses, the compilers do not hesitate to pionounce
that, notwithstanding the multitude of pulpit compositions
which are continually issuing from the proes, such a volume,
if edited with judgment and care, would prove a valuable
accession to the religious productions of the day. In the
ninth chapter of this work is inserted a sketch of Mr.
SIMM'S last sermon, with a lew extracts from its more

A 3

Tl PKRFACR.

striking passages. The compilers once purposed to intro
duce other sketches in different parts of the Memoirs on
the same plan ; but were apprehensive that these would
too far interrupt the progress of the narration, and in some
degree change the biographical character of the work.
Enough, it is presumed, will be found scattered through
the successive chapters, and contained in the outline
mentioned above, to convey a correct idea of Mr. Stoner's
talent and style of preaching. More than this did not seem
to fall properly within the province of his biographers. •

It is an encouraging circumstance to the compilers that
so much solicitude has been expressed for the speedy pub
lication of these Memoirs; but they fear that they have
incurred censure by seeming delay. They beg to allege,
in their own excuse, that they have done what they could
to expedite the work. Nine months have not yet elapsed
since the death of Mr. Stoner, — a period which they trust
will not be deemed immoderately long, when it is con
sidered that they have enjoyed no peculiar facilities for
despatch. They wish to state farther that, as they had to
draw their materials from a large and mingled mass of
private correspondence, and from the manuscripts of Mr.
Stoner, all of which are written in a very small character,
and continually interspersed with short-hand, it was neces
sary that every line should be carefully transcribed for the
press. They may also be allowed to mention, that their
task has been pursued amid the constant pressure of other
engagements, — the frequent languors of personal indispo
sition, — and repeated visitations of domestic suffering and
bereavement. Oftener than one* has he, on whom, from
his situation, the more laborious part of this compilation
necessarily devolved, attempted to prosecute his work with
a trembling hand and aching heart, while a beloved child
I iy in the adjoining room wrapped in the pale vestments

PREFACE. vii

of mortality. He enters not into affecting particulars.
Private griefs are of too delicate and retiring a nature to
be obtruded without necessity on public notice. These
are introduced merely to account, in part, for apparent in
attention to the solicitations of friendship ; and they shall
now repose for ever in their own sanctuary, — the perpetual
but silent recollections of parental feeling.

The work is at length committed to public view with
unaffected diffidence. Had the compilers been favoured
with more undisturbed leisure, or a longer space of time,
they might have rendered it more accurate, and less un
worthy of the exemplary man whose history it reviews.
Small and hasty, however, as their offering is, they humbly
consecrate it to Him from whom all truth and virtue ema
nate, praying that He may prosper it to the advancement
of His praise. If it be deemed utterly unfit to accomplish
anything truly beneficial, they will resign it quietly to that
gulf of oblivion which has already received many other
compositions undertaken from motives equally pure, and
executed with ability far superior.

One thing more it may not be unnecessary to mention,
— that the compilers have not the slightest pecuniary inte
rest in the publication. The profits are entirely appro
priated to the usi> of Mr. Stoner's family. A gentleman of
I.ci-ils lias kindly engaged to superintend all that relates
to this point; and from what the compilers know of his
character, they are fully assured that he will conduct the
whole with the utmost attention and care, and apply th«
proceeds with fidelity and discretion.

WILLIAM DAW SON.
JOHN HANNAH.

Leeds. July 16th, Ih27.

vr.i

ADVERTISEMENT

THE SECOND EDITION.

IN this edition the compilers have endeavoured to correct tho
errors which had escaped their attention in passing the former
one through the press; but they have refrained from changing
the character of the work by unnecessary alterations, or unim
portant additions. The copyright is now sold to the Committee
appointed to manage the affairs of the Methodist Book -Room;
and the sum procured for it will be applied to the use of Mr
Stoner's family.

W. D.

•. H.

Ua*chftter, Junr \\tk, 1820.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.

Introductory reflections — His birth and parentage— His conver
sion, and its immediate fruits — He goes to an Academy a(
Rochdale— His conduct there — Influence of religion in the
Academy— Importance of early piety. Page* 1—16.

CHAPTER II.

He wishes to obtain a situation — Engages as Assistant in Mr.
Sigston's Academy, Leeds— Arduous nature of his new ollice

— Exemplary manner in which he discharged its duties — He
diligently pursues his private studies— Advances in piety —
His grateful recollections of the advantages which he enjoyed
at Leeds — Affords an instructive example of strict attention
to present duty without fruitless anticipations of futurity.

Page* 16—28.

CHAPTER III.

Kein.uks on the Christian ministry— Mr. Stoner** early inclinations
towards it — His solicitude to ascertain the claims of duty —
He carefully examines his views and principles in relation to
tin- ministry— Still hesitate--— At length makes two attempts
to preach ; but is discouraged, and desists — Renews his efforts

— His observations on a call to the ministry— lie is admitted
aa a probationer on the Local Preachers' plan, and afterwards
placed on the List of Reserve — His sentiments on preaching;
with the Spirit, and on other ministerial qualifications -His
diligence in preparing for the pulpit— Anecdote of the Rev.
John Smith— He is requested to accompany Dr. Coke to India,
but declines-Is recommended to travel, and employed in the

X CONTENTS.

Leeds Circuit— His exemplary conduct, and encouraging pro-
raise of future eminence. Pages 29—5*.

CHAPTER IV.

He removes to the Holmflrth Circuit, where he zealously and
successfully pursues his ministerial labours— Endangers hi»
health by indiscreet exertion in the pulpit— Observations on
this subject A description of the place of his usual residence
—His unabated conviction of the importance of the ministry-
Extracts from his Letters and Diary— Anecdotes of an igno
rant hearer, of an infidel, and of a miser — Takes his leave of his
friends at Holmfirth and its vicinity with affectionate regret-
Remarks on his diligent application to study. Page* 55—68.

CHAPTER V.

He is stationed at Huddersfleld — Extracts from his Diary— His
views of entire sanctiflcation, which he earnestly desires —
Still assiduous in his attention to pulpit duty— Part of a letter
to Mr. Gilpin — Other extracts from his Diary— Record of his
diligence in reading and study— He is admitted into full con.
nexion with the Methodist Conference— His marriage— More
Extracts from his Diary — Remarks on his ministerial success
and his religious experience during the period he spent at
Huddersfield. Pages 69—89.

CHAPTER VI.

Extraordinary success of Mr. Stoner's ministry in the Bradford Cir
cuit, to which he is next appointed — The spirit in which he
entered uimn his new station — Rev. Isaac Turton's testimony
to his zeal and usefulness — Extracts from his Diary — He pub-
lishes a sermon on occasion of the death of His Majesty
George 111. — Part of a letter to the Rev. John Hanwell— Other
extracts from his Diary and Correspondence, particularly illus-
trat've of his earnest pursuit of Christian holiness -Remarks
on his progress in the attainment of it— Farther extract* from
his Diary and Correspondence— Observations on his general
habits while at Bradford, and especially, on his entire convic
tion of the necessity of Divine Influence to any degree of
ministerial success. Pages go— 166.

( <)\ I IN I - XI

CHAPTER VII.

lit contemplates a removal to Newcastle upon-Tyne. but, for spe
cial reasons, is appointed to the Birstal Circuit— His unabated
zeal and fidelity in that station— He enters upon it with a BO-
lemn dedication of himself to God— Extracts from his Diary
and Correspondence— The death of his mother— His Diary
closes with a satisfactory testimony of his establishment in
the divine life— T!ie fervency of his prayers, whilst at Birstal,
for the prosperity of religion— Rules for prayer-meetings—
Notice of the domestic afflictions with which he now began to
be visited. Pages 167- 164.

CHAPTER VIII.

He receives an appointment to the York Circuit— The discussion
which took place in Conference on this subject— He baa two
severe attacks of sickness —Extract from a letter to Miss Milnes
— Death of his daughter— Extract from a letter to Mr. William
Parkin— Death and character of Mrs. Stoner— Under these
painful bereavements, he strives to allay his grief by engaging
zealously in the discharge of his official duties— His labours
and success — Various extracts from his correspondence — His
second marriage— Other extracts— He promotes the erection
of a third chapel at York— General remarks on his experience
and vicwi during his residence in that city. Page* 185—200.

CHAPTER IX.

He unexpectedly receives an appointment to the Liverpool-North
Circuit— Closes his ministerial labours at York, and visit* two
of his former stations on his way to Liverpool — The faithful
admonitions which he delivered at Holmflrth— He commences
his regular duties at Liverpool with his usual zeal, and with
hopeful prospects— His exemplary attention to private devo
tion — He advances very observably in the Christian life — Ex
tracts from a letter to the Rev. John Slack — Probable occasion
of his death— Sketch of his last sermon, with extracts from it
—Extracts from a letter to the Rev. Joseph Jennings— The
severity of his last illness, his deportment under it, and his truly
Christian death— Circumstances of his funeral— Reflections.

Page* 210—233

Xil .CONTENTS.

CHAPTER X.

A description of his character, containing; a brief view, I. Of
his intellectual ability ;— strength, soundness, and activity of
mind,— unyielding decision,— and peculiar facility of adapting
his instructions to the circumstances and capacities of different
persons: — II. Of his religious attainments ; — enlightened as
surance, — humility, — prayerfulness,— habitual faith, — love, —
diligent attention to the performance of every practical duty,
— and large enjoyment of spiritual happiness, notwithstanding
his constitutional tendency to dejection : — III. Of his more
observable habits; — external appearance,— seeming repulsive-
ness of manner, — taciturnity in company, — free and unre
strained affability among his confidential friends, — and re
markable exactness in all his plans and proceedings :— IV. Of
his pulpit qualifications ;— choice of subjects, — careful prepa
ration of his sermons, — style, — mode of delivery,— incessant
solicitude to do good, — and powerful effect of his ministry.—
conclusion. Paget 334 — 263.

MEMOIRS

REV. DAVID STONER.

CHAPTER I.

Introductory reflection* — Hit birth and parentage — Hit
conversion and its immediate fruits — He goes to an
academy at Rochdale — His conduct there— Influence
of religion in the academy — Importance of early
j'iely.

THE early death of persons eminent for their piety,
talents, and useful services in the Christian church,
awakens serious and melancholy reflection. It is
one of the inscrutable mysteries of divine Providence.
Men prepare instruments for use, and employ th; m
in the execution of their proper offices: God often
prepares instruments, places them in situations of
hopeful and jinnni-iiitr labour, and, while we admire
their qualifications, and gratefully anticipate rich
results from their activity and zeal, snatches them
suddenly from our eye?, and declares the supremacy
of his control, and the independence of his will. To
inquire why he acts thus, is natural, but unwise.
B

I MKMOIHS OF THE

"Clouds and darkness" surround the throne of the
Most High. Mortal conjecture cannot penetrate the
thick and awful veil. Eternity alone will draw it
aside, and reveal its hidden wonders. Reason is
taught to sit in silence at God's feet. "Behold, he
taketh away : who can hinder him ? Who," pre
suming to interfere with his counsels, or attempting
to restrain his hand, "will say unto him, What
doest thou ? " The language of meek and adoring
submission is the proper language of man. "The
Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away ; blessed
be the name of the Lord."

Such events, however, demand attention. They
are full of instruction. They loudly proclaim the
frailty of human nature even in its " best estate,"
and testify that "man is" indeed "a bubble," float
ing awhile on the wave which gave him birth,— then
bursting, and sinking into the common mass. They
admonish survivers to cultivate a spirit of vigilance,
promptitude, and despatch ; to " work while it is
day," because " the night cometh, when no man can
work." They attract our notice to the religious
character of those who thus pass prematurely and
unexpectedly away, and give a more affecting and
powerful energy to their holy example. To present
that example to public view, is at once a tribute of
friendship, and a discharge of duty. Shall the de
parture of such men be "folded up in silence?"
Shall it be deemed enough to shed our unavailing
regreta over their graves, while we suppress their
monitory principle*, actions, and precepts ? No.
Though dead, they "yet speak ;" and speak in ac-

HKV. DAVID STONKK. 3

cent* deepened and strengthened by the solemnities
of the tomb which has opened its mouth to receive
them. Everything invifcs us to review their pro-
trre<s through lite, to examine their Christian tem-
:•> mark their high ard majestic uims, and to
weigh tlieir salutary counsek-. " Remember them
who liave spoken unto you the word of God : whose
faith follow, considering the end of their conversa
tion," and reposing in the assurance that "Jesus
Christ," the refuge of the sinner, and the joy of
the saint, unchanged by the lapse of time, and the
various fluctuations of this earthly scene, is "the
same yesti rday, and to-day, and for ever."

Reflections like these are suggested by the removal of
him who form-; the subject of these memoirs. He ia
snatched away in the forenoon of life, when his friends
v\ere fimdly expecting a lengthened day of valuable
services. He had just entered upon a new field o.
labour, — a field of large extent, importance, ano.
promise ; luit. ^carcely had he commenced his work,
when he passed into his rest. He ig gone. "The
eye that had seen him shall see him no more."
Tender recollections arise. The tear of friendship
minirles with the sorrows of domestic bereavement,
and mourns the death of one of the "excellent of the
earth." But other duties call, and engage us to
•• gai her up the fragments that remain" of his
( 'hristian experience and holy actions, " that nothing
be 1'i^t." To his connexions and acquaintance gene
rally, and especially to his \oiinger brethren in the
mini-try, it is hoped that il \\iil nut be unintere-tini:
or unprofitable to e.v'iiliit the " grace ot' (MX! in him.1'
ii ->

4 M r.MOIltS OF THE

Happy, if any catch his falling mantle, imbibe his
spirit, and imitate his conduct. Then, he will
neither have lived nor died in vain.

DAVID STOKER was born at Burwick-in-Elmet,
a village about seven miles from Leeds, on Sunday,
April 6th, 1794. The retired situation of his native
place was friendly to the constitutional timidity of his
mind, and its religious privileges afforded him pecu
liar assistances. His parents were decidedly pious ;
and, sensible of the inestimable value of an immortal
spirit, they laboured to restrain him from all evil,
and teach him the " way of righteousness." Religion
was presented to his consideration under the most
pleasing aspect ; was explained in affectionate pre
cept, anil recommended by daily example. His
father still survives to lament this bright "coal"
which is " quenched " in Israel : his mother, who,
for maternal solicitude, may justly be classed with
Hannah, the mother of Samuel, — Eunice, the mother
of Timothy, — and Monica, the mother of Augustine,
has exchanged mortality for life. Her end was
peace. — The tender assiduities of his parents were
not fruitless. They scattered the seeds of truth and
piety in his heart, \\ Inch, watered by the dews and
showers of divine influence, yielded a rich and blessed
harvest. They collected material around the hallow
ing altar on which they desired to offer the servirrs
of their child to God ; and \\heii the fire descended
from heaven, and the breath of divine inspiration
fanned its kindling ardours, the sacrifice arose in
Humes of heavenly desire and humble love. Their

I'.I.V. I >, YVII) .sTO.NKll. 5

H fuini-hcs another practical evidence of the
\;i-t utility of pious parental exertion. To such
exertion (iod himself has given the strongest com-
iiin:(!ati(iii : "Shall I hide- from Abraham that tiling
which I do? — For I know him, that he will command
his children and his household after him, and they
shall keeji the way of the Lord, to do justice
and judgment ; that the Lord may bring upon
Aliraham that which he hath spoken of him."

It \\ould not base appeared extraordinary if one,
trained from his infancy to the knowledge of religion,
had been conducted by a more gradual method
to the fuller apprehension and enjoyment of its
truth. His conversion, however, \\as very clearly
and strongly marked. In the year 1800, Bar-
wick and its neighbourhood were visited with a
seven- affliction of an inrlummatory nature, which
>\\rpt many into eternity, and excited considerable
alarm. Among others who died was the pious father
of a large family. One of the writers of these page*
\\as desired to preach on the occasion; which lie
did on the morning of Good Friday, from Deut.
xxxii. 20: "O that they were wise, that they un-
derstood this, that they would consider their latter
« ml ! " While the Preacher was endeavouring to

O

urge the admonitions suggested by his text on the

consciences of his hraivrs, yomi^r Stonrr, \\hose
mind had been much affected by the instances of
mortality \\hicli had taken place around him, felt
the word in demonstration and power. He distinctly
>aw that, if hi- henrt and lite \\ere not t lian-ed, " his
latter end" \\onld be death. Dining that day lit;

f> MEMOIRS OF THK

laboured nnder a painful conviction of his sin and
misery ; and at a prayer-meeting held in the chapel
the same evening, could no longer suppress his feel
ings. He cried aloud tor mercyr sought the favour
of God with his whole heart, found it, and went
t>me rejoicing. To that day he always adverted
rith peculiar pleasure. On the first page of his diary,
rvhich he did not begin to keep until many years
afterwards, he briefly and emphatically writes,
"Awakened and converted, April 4th, Good Friday,
1806." To persons who have observed the rapid for
mation of habits, especially in early youth, it will
not appear improbable that the benefit which he re
ceived at ;i meeting for prayer tended to strengthen
liis attachment in subsequent life to similar a<sem-
blies. He never indeed allowed them to supersede
other ordinances, but regarded them as valuable
auxiliaries to all; engaging the united faith, and
hope, and fervour of Christians, and often securing
the special presence and blessing of God.

His friends rejoiced over the important change
which had been wrought in his view<, temper, and
conduct; but, considering his age, only just twelve
years, they rejoiced with trembling. They lean- 1
that when the passions of youth grew into vigour and
maturity, when the charms of an untried world pre
sented their fascinations and allurements, and when
temptation assailed him in its innumerable forms, he,
."ike many others, might " be led away with the error
«' the wicked, and fall from his own steadt'a-tmv--."
To prevent this, they watched over him with jealousy
and care. Happily, their fears were not realize 1.

IIF.V. DAVID STONF-R. 7

F'e bi'ir.m, continued, mid ended well. The fonnd-
iiii.ni wax laid deep, and the building rose rapidly
and regularly, firm in its structure, and lovely in
it- appearance, till the "head-stone thereof" was
"hronght forth with shoutings, Grace, grace unto
it."

From the time of his conversion he was remark-
;il)ly serious, thoughtful, and observant. He possessed
the desirable talent of applying everything to a
practical use, and deriving instruction from any
valuable hint, whether addressed to himself or to
others. One example of this has been preserved in
th,- memory of a friend. A person \\ho met. in the
same cla»s was complaining to his Leader that he
felt himself greatly discouraged by various tempta
tions, and particularly by Satan's suggesting to his
mind that he had no religion. "Well, brother,"
said the Leader, '' I would advise you to take advan
tage «.f the devil, and -ay to him, ' If I have no reli
gion, by the <_r;t<v of (Jod I will never reM until I
obtain it ;' and by this means, whether you have or
have not religion, the temptation will be overruled
for your good." This remark struck Stoner's mind
very forcibly. He mentioned it repeatedly afterwards,
and. in seasons of depression and discouragement,
endeavoured to act consistently with it. To be r'ujJit
\\as his jrreat aim; and if a suspicion arose that
perhaps, after all, he was the dupe of self-delusion,
lie did not suffer himself to sink into a state of inac
tivity and despair, but renewed his rxcrci-es of self-
examination, prayer, and diligence.

At thU early period he ua- commendably solicitor

H MEMO] US OF THK

tor the spiritual happiness of others, and gave some
promise of the important office which he ultimately
sustained in the church of Christ. Shortly after lie
was brought to the saving enjoyment of religion, a
very gracious influence was felt among the young
people of his native village. He laboured assiduously
to promote it; and often met with his juvenile
associates in fields, barns, and other places, for the
purposes of prayer and mutual exhortation. He
was styled their prcacJicr ; and even then was
remarkable for the clearness, pungency, and force of
his addresses. Those days he always regarded as
eminently happy. Several of his early friends have
not yet forgotten the zealous and affecting admoni
tions which they at that time received from him. —
Meetings of young persons like those mentioned
ought undoubtedly to be encouraged with much
caution. They are liable to abuse, and may una
wares engender levity and pride. In this instance,
however, they appcnr to have produced good effects
only. David Stoner was discreet beyond his year-,
and, under the direction of older advisers, was care
ful to "abstain from all appearance of evil."

The time had now arrived when liis parents be^an
to think of preparing him for a suitable station in
future life. This occasioned them some perplexity
His abstraction of mind, his strong propensity tt
studious pursuits and his inaptitude for the ordinary
avocations of business, seemed to militate against hi*
being h'xed in such a situation as they had ;-t
first intended for him. They sought direction, how
ever, from the (iod ot l'ro\ idence; and at length,

REV. DAVID STONF.H.

ifter much deliberation, resolved to follow the *ug-
ge-iiiin df a friend, and train liiin for a literary or
mercantile employment. With this design, in the
beginning of the year 1808, he was placed under the
of Mr. Hridge, who at that time kept an aca
demy at Rochdale.

Temptations attend every change in life; and those
to which serious young persons are subjected by a re
moval to school are often perilous. New scenes are
opened, — new connexions are formed, — new engage-
incuts arise ; and not unfrequently the tender plant
of juvenile piety, placed in a fresh and, perhaps, un
friendly soil, exposed to furious storms and withering
blights, and deprived of the fostering hand of religious
care find attention, decays and dies. Providentially,
this was not the case with David Stoner. The school
t<> which he was sent proved a nursery of piety as
well as of learning. Here he extended his religious
acquaintance, and enjoyed peculiar advantages ;—
hen- he not only preserved his spiritual attainments,
but continued to "grow in grace, and in the know
ledge ot (Mir Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."

While lie \\as at Kochdale, he had among his asso
ciates. William Lord and Samuel Wilde, both now
honourably and usefully employed in the Wesleyaa
ministry. They unite in their testimony to the
excellency of his character, and con-i.-tericy of his
deportment. Mr. Lord, whose acquaintance with
him was long and intimate, has kindly furnished the
writers of the«e memoirs \\ ith some interesting and
valuable communications. " I well remember," -;.\ s
Mr. L., "that wln-n he came to the school his ap-

10 MK.MOIKS OF THR

pcarance was rather forbidding, owing to his being
tall, and rustic in his manners and dress. But his
progress in learning soon convinced his tutors that
he possessed a mind of a superior order; while his mild
and peaceable conduct secured him the good opinion
of all, and the friendship of many of his schoolfellows.
lie was remarkable for a diligent application to his
studies, and an indifference to the games and sports of
which schoolboys in general are so fond. At that time
taciturnity and modesty were as conspicuous traits of
his character as in any subsequent part of his life." —
•'During the time," adds Mr. L., "that we were
schoolfellows, there was a blessed work of God upon
the minds of many of the boys. Several met in class,
and I have no doubt enjoyed the power and comforts
of religion ; of which number David Stoner was one.
Mr. Bridge favoured us with a room, in which, at
proper seasons, we held prayer-meetings. On some
of these occasions great numbers of the boys attend
ed, and David Stoner and others engaged in prayer,
frequently with peculiar propriety, fluency, and fer
vour ; and not seldom the power of God was present
to wound and to heal."

At Rochdale he also formed an acquaintance, which
ripened into a very sincere friendship, with the lnU
Mr. Gregory, of Nottingham. Mr. G. was at the
same academy, and was one of the serious and devout
boys mentioned above. Several letters afterwards
pa»srd between him and D. Stoner. By the kindness
of Mr. Shelton, brother-in-law of M r. ( i.. the writers
are favoured wiih all the letter- of Mr. Stoner that
could be found, and with which some of the siure-"!-

KKV. !>A\III STUN 1. 11. 11

\i\£ puires \\ill be enriched. They arc much worn,
and were, doubtless, often read by the lamented
friend to whom they are addressed.— These two
were affecting victims or mortality. They pursued
ditl'erent path* throui:h life, l>ut happily maintained
i lie same religion-; principles and aims. They were
:ied in early friendship, and early death; and
have undoubtedly rejoined each other in the '''quiet
shades of paradise." Their intimacy on earth was
the source of mutual gratification. " I often think/'
says Mr. Stoner, in one of his letters, "what a bless
ing it was that ever we met at Rochdale. What re-
fre-hing seasons did we use to have from the presence
of the Lord!" His Nottingham friend was never
known to mention him without lively satisfaction
and pleasure.

.Mr. Gregory quitted the academy first. To him
D. Stoner writes, September 4th, 1808, and informs
him of an accident which had befallen him, and in
terrupted some of his engagements, — the breaking
of his arm. He expresses an earnest trust that his
friend was still directing his face toward the heavenly
Zion, ''fighting against the world, the flesh, and the
devil;" and adds, that, " for his own part, he was
determined to proceed in the narrow way." "I
h.ipe," say lie, with alfectionate emphasis •' that 1
have an int. Tot in your prayers a- ymi have in
ininp." He mentions the departure of several of the
IKI\- from .-eliool, and the needhefelt of Mr. G.'s
a— i-t.mce. He discovers also some solicitude in rela
tion to his future movements ; but subjoins, "There i<
a promise which says, 'Seek ye first the kingdom of

12 MKMOI US OF THE

God, and his righteousness ; and all other tilings shall
be added unto you.' "

In a letter to the same friend, dated November
3d, 1808, he says, "For myself, though I have been
a trifler, and am yet very unfaithful, I feel deter
mined, through God's grace, to serve him with all
my heart, to give myself up into his hands, and let
him work as 'seemeth him good.' I am cheered
with the hope that we have only a few more fleeting
years at farthest to weather out, to take up our 3ross,
deny ourselves, and live happily below ; and shall
then receive an eternity, a heaven of happiness
above. O dear Robert, pray, pray for me ; for ' the
effectual prayer of a righteous man availeth much.'"
Such an extract demands no remark : it sufficiently
attests the serious and devotional temper of the
writer's mind.

At this time it appears that there was an uncom
mon religious influence in the academy. "We have
had a great increase of late," adds Mr. S., in the
same letter. " The Lord has been shaking the dry
bones, so that upwards of a dozen boys attend the
class-meetings." Part of this letter is written by a
mutual friend, Mr. John Crawshaw ; who observes,
" Surely God dwells among us, and hath chosen this
house for his own. When you were here, we had
good meetings ; but those which are now held among
us far surpass them. A number of little boys will
collect together, and tell of God's goodness to them
with all the simplicity of little children. Indeed
they can scarcely be called anything else ; but, young
as they are, God has dealt bountifully with them,

REV. DAVID STOXKK. ] .'J

and made them very happy. Scarcely a week
panes but one youth or more is made Imppy. O
that you were here to join us ! God bless you. I
don't know that there is a boy in the school who
does not sometimes attend the prayer-meetings."

It is justly lamented that religions impressions on
companies of young people, particularly at schools,
are often transient. Some leave; — others come.
Some perhaps prove extravagant; — others unfaith
ful. An attentive observer of human life will not be
surprised to discover that this was partially the case
at Rochdale. In May, 1800, Mr. Stoner writes to
the same correspondent, " We are rather dead in
religion at the school. There are only four or five,
besides the masters, who attend the class-meetings."
Such changes occur ; but they do not prove that
preceding visitations of heavenly influence were
either imaginary or useless. They forcibly indeed
declare the necessity of caution, fidelity, and diligence;
but ought by no means to impeach the condescension
and mercy of God. If the "morning eloud " seem
to vanish from the sky, and the "early dew1' from
the earth, let it not be denied that they have been
there, or supposed that their effects have, in every
instance, utterly perished.

Whatever might be the state of others, Da\ id
Stoner continued to urge on his Christian course.
He complains indeed, in the letter la-t mentioned,
that he had not been sufficiently watchful, nor made
puch progress in the ways of religion as he ou^ht to
have made ; but expresses his hope that God would

14 MEMOIRS OK TI1F.

" quicken his soul, and make him a irood Christian.''
A revival of religion had just taken place at Notting-
nam ; on which he remarks, with his characteristic
energy, " i am very glad to hear that the Lord is
prospering his work at Nottingham; and I hope he
will carry it on until the wicked man cannot find a
wicked companion in the whole town."

Tho time which he spent at Rochdale was a \ear
and a half. He took his leave of his friends there
at Midsummer of 1809, and immediately afterwards
engaged in that situation which will form the subject
of the following chapter.

From the brief portion of his life which has already
been reviewed, there arises a powerful argument in
favour of the importance of early piety. It was this
which preserved David Stoner from the evils to which
boyhood is liable, and gave a direction to his views,
purposes, and actions, honourable to his God, happy
for himself, and beneficial to others. Let every
young person who reads tbpse memoirs copy his ex
ample. " Youth is not rich in time : " let that time
be diligently employed. Youth is the spring-season
of life's short year, when the seeds of the future har
vest ought to be plentifully sown : it is the morning
of life's short day, the mild and sacred hours of which
ought to be carefully spent. Who dares calculate
on lengthened life? or, if life be lengthened, what
is of greater moment than to consecrate it from it.;
commencement to God and heaven? With re
gard to many, much time has already elapsed.
"Remember, says a distinguished Roman Empe-

lU'.V. DAVID STONF.K. 1 .")

ntr,« "how long thou Imst deferred thy most import
ant concern, and how often thou ha*t neglected the op
portunities afforded thee. — It is time for thee ut length
to consider thy situation in this world, of which thou
art a part ; and what the wise Governor of the world,
from whom thou art derived, requires of thee. Thou
hast a circumscribed space of time assigned thee,
which it thou dost not employ in making all calm and
serene within, it will pass away, and thou wilt pass
away, and it will not return."

* Marcus Antoninus, lib. ii., cap. 4.

H> MK.MOIK* Of THK

CHAPTER II.

He wishes to obtain a situation — Engages an assistant in
Mr. Sigston's academy, Leeds — Arduous nature of
his new office — Exemplary manner in which he dis
charged its duties — He diligently pursues nis private
studies — Advances in piety — His grateful recollec
tions of the advantages which he enjoyed at Leeds —
Affords an instructive example of strict attention to
present duty wit/tout fruitless anticipations of fu
turity.

IT was young Stoner's object to procure a situa
tion, as soon as possible, in which lie might combine
opportunities of personal improvement with useful
service, and release his parents from the charges of
his education. When he had been a year at Roch
dale, he ventured to apply for the office of under-
assistant in a school at Leeds ; but was not thought
sufficiently grounded in the elements of Latin to per
form the duties that would be expected from him.
He continued awhile in suspense. Mr. Bridge sig
nified a wish to employ him in his academy ; but his
proposals do not appear to have been satisfactory.
He returned, therefore, as a scholar to Rochdale,
hoping that, in the course of another half-year, some
situation might present itself, to which his abilities
mid attainments would be deemed adequate.

At this season of comparative perplexity, he did
not tail to commit himself, by prayer and rcsigiw-

wr.v. ii.\\ 1 1> STUN KK. 17

tion, tn ihe guidance of divine Providence. He
"acknowledged" God; and God "directed his
path-.'' He purposed to ofler himself as a book
keeper, or writer in any other department ; and re
quested his friend Mr. Gregory, if he heard of any
vurh situation, to inform him of it : but. on his i[uit-
jng Rochdale, he succeeded in obtaining what was
far more suited to his views and dispositions, — the
place of assistant in Mr. Sigsfon's academy, Leeds.
Here lie enjoyed every advantage that he could
reasonably expect or desire; and here he remained
until he was (-ailed into the regular work of the
mini-try. It was no inconsiderable addition to his
comfort that, during a part of this time, his old
schoolfellow and friend, Mr. Lord, was associated
with him as assistant in the same seminary.

The office which a teacher of youth sustains is
arduous and perplexing. To ascertain the peculiar
temper and talent of each scholar, — to restrain the
confident, encourage the diffident, and quicken the
slothful, — to convey instruction in the clearest, most
eie^a^ing, and most effectual manner, — to attend
properly to the formation of principles and charac
ter, by tar the most important object of education, —
and tn maintain a sufficient degree of self-govern
ment and control, — is confessed by tho-e who art
mo-t experienced in the work of tuition to lie iio
easy task. To young persons, like David -^oner, it
mii-t be \cry tr\ing. He was, however, under tiie
din-taut direction of his seniors; his early habits
•liendly to his new engagements ; and in the
honourable but difficult office of teaching \oiith he

o :»

18 M KM 01 IIS ()!•• THK

was by degrees more fully trained for the station
which he afterwards occupied.

Of the laudable manner in which he discharged
the duties of this situation, the most satisfaetor.
timonies are given. " His conduct in my house,"
says Mr. Sigston, " was most exemplary. His qua
lifications for teaching were peculiarly good. His
manner was prompt, but firm ; and he communi
cated instruction with pleasantness mingled with
gravity. He felt much for the salvation of the
young persons under his care ; and in several in
stances, I doubt not, his pious endeavours for their
spiritual good were crowned with success." The
testimony of Mr. Lord, with whom he lived on terms
of the most friendly intimacy, is very similar. To
these may be added the evidence of Mr. William
Gilpin, who was a scholar in Mr. Sigston's academy
during part of the time that Mr. Stoner was en
gaged as an assistant, and who gratefully acknow
ledges that he owes much to the influence of Mr.
St'>ner's example and admonitory communication?.
" Though then but young," says Mr. G., " I no
sooner became an inmate in Mr. Sigston's establish
ment, than I was forcibly struck with the character
and deportment of my venerated friend. Habitually
grave and serious, his very appearance served to
repress levity, and excite respect. On persons who
enjoyed no intimacy with him, his extreme natural
reserve was apt to produce an unfavourable impres
sion ; but such an impression was instantly removed
by a more familiar acquaintance, lie was eminently
itiU-ctiunate ; and vhon he unbosomed himself on

UKV. DAVID STONEU. I!'

nny subject, there was a peculiar charm in his con-
versition, tone, and manner. He was accustomed
to .ml. rare every seasonable opportunity of address
ing thr> scholars respecting their salvation ; and the
effects of his instructions, counsels, and admonitions,
are found in several individuals at the present day.
It is almost unnecessary to add, that the boys in
general were remarkably attached to him."

While he approved himself thus faithful in execut
ing the dutiesof his office, he was also very attentive
to his personal improvement. The time which he
was expectcil to spend in the business of teaching
was nix hours each day : he, consequently, had many
intervals, \\hich lie did not neglect to occupy in his
private studies. " From the time of his coming to
me," adds Mr. Sigston, " he discovered an ardent
thirst after knowledge; and, being of a studious and
iv-rrved disposition, employed most of his leisure
time in the acquisition of various parts of literature,
the knowledge of which his situation and prospects
seemed to require." — " His thirst for knowledge."
oli-ervts Mr. (Jilpin, "was insatiable. He \v;i<,
therefore, extremely diligent in the improvement of
every Id-are moment. Whoever trifled, he was sure
to be busy. Indeed, his industry at that period,
then about seventeen years of age, was the most
striking feature in his character: nor is there any
rea-on to think that he ever relaxed his efforts to
advanee in knowledge as well as in piety. No man
ever reminded me so forcibly of a nicer in the
Grecian games as my late friend. He was always
at full speed.''

'50 MEMO] US OK THK

One part of his attention was very properly di
rected to the attainment of languages ; and lie
appears, while at Mr. Sigston's, to have made con
siderable progress in the Greek and Latin, French
and Portuguese tongues. To these he afterwards
added so much knowledge of the Hebrew ;ts enabled
him to examine the original text of the Old Testa
ment with some degree of facility, and to guard his
expositions of that portion of holy writ against the
loose conjectures of fanciful etymology, and the illu
sions of a visionary philosophy. Mr. Sigston had in
his family a Portuguese and a Spaniard ; — Stoner
therefore possessed peculiar helps for the study of
those languages, of which, in regard to the Portu
guese, he eagerly availed himself, and that with
speedy and singular success. It cannot be supposed,
that, amidst the multiplicity of his avocations, his
classical acquirements were of the very first order.
They seem to have been useful rather than eminent ;
and they were sacredly devoted to those higher
objects which he habitually contemplated.

To subjects of general information also, and parti
cularly to select theological publications, he applied
much of his time. He is said to have been a re
markably rapid reader. He certainly was a very
attentive one. What is related of the excellent
Scougal, a man resembling himself in richness ot
promise, and brevity of lite, may, without impro
priety, be applied to him: "He did not so much
rniil bonks -as think them."* In his epistolary cor-

* See Wesley's Christian Library, vol. xxiii., p. 2H.
8vo. edit.

KRV. DAVID STONF.n. 21

rospondenee are inserted several short notices of the
works which passed under his examination, — notices
strongly marked by sagacity, discrimination, and
intelligence. Sometimes he made extracts from the
books lie read ; and generally availed himself of
such other methods as were most agreeable to the
habits of his own mind, and best adapted to bring
the contents of his reading into profitable use, as
well as to preserve them in his memory.

Amidst the various and multiplied engagements
of a teacher and student, there is no little danger of
spiritual declension. Religion may not be forgotten ;
its profession may not be relinquished ; but its truths
may fail to exert their wonted influence, and its en
joyments may languish. It is exceedingly possible
for the mind to employ itself in the acquisition of
speculative knowledge, while the heart unawares
d"elinesin heavenly love. From this evil Mr. Stoner
seems generally to have been preserved. The situa
tion in which he was placed afforded him peculiar
helps of a religious nature. At Mr. Sipston's lie
found a nursery where his Christian virtues were
protected and invigorated, and where the tender
blossoms of divine grace, opening in his experience
and practice, were saved from the insidious worm of
evil principles, and the pernicious frost of sinful
company. He also enjoyed the advantages of a
zealous and efficient ministry, and appears to have
derived much assistance from the sermons which he
tuen hoard, outlines of many of which have lieen dis
covered ninong his papers. He was likewise parti
cularly attentive to the holy Scriptures, which he

SB MEMOIRS OF THE

made his daily study. In one of his letters to Mr.
Gregory, ho emphatically styles the Bible, "The
book of books, — the book of God, and the god of
books;" and, after quoting the eloquent testimonies
of Sir William Jones in proof of its excellency,
observes, " I well remember a remark which I have
somewhere heard or read, — ' God follows you out of
your bed-chamber with a jealous eye in a morning,
to see what book lies nearest your heart ; whether
the first book you open be His, or one on some
trivial subject.' This observation I generally recol
lect, and consequently read God's book the first,
which is a kind of divine antidote against all the
poisonous qualities of others." But the religious
state of his mind at this period will be best illus
trated by a few extracts from his free and confiden
tial correspondence.

To Mr. Gregory he writes, August 9th, 1809,
shortly after he entered upon his new situation:
" As for my better part, I trust I am advancing
faster in the way to heaven than ever I did. The
Lord often blesses my soul in a powerful manner.
O what a good God have we to do with ! After all
the sins we have committed against him, after all
our backsliding* from him, he has mercy on us still.
Dear Sir, let us press forward to the ' mark for the
prize of our high calling in Christ Jc<u<.' "

On January llth, 1810, he writes to the same
correspondent from Banvick : "I am very glad tj
hear you have made so great advancement in the
paths of religion, but am sorry to find that you have
been so much tifllirted. What a Messing it is, how

REV. DAVID STONKR 23

ever, to have tin- fear of (loath taken away ! If God
had taken you to himself, to paradise, to eternal
glory, hefore me, O I think how you would have
welcomed me, when the Lord had pleased to call
me to the regions of everlasting day. O ravishing
thought ! O boundless love ! O infinite mercy ! I
hope you remember the words of the blessed Apostle,
when he says, ' Our light affliction, which is but for
a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and
eternal weight of glory.' The more patiently we
suffer, the greater will be our reward. — For my own
part, I know not where to begin to praise the Lord.
When I consider into what a situation I have got,
contrary to all expectation; — when I reflect how
many young men, after leaving school, have waited
several years before they could obtain a place in
which they might earn their bread, whilst no sooner
did I return home than this was handed out by Pro
vidence, a situation so desirable, so advantageous in
every point of view, particularly for the better part;
when I attend to these things, I feel that 1 can with
propriety adopt the heart-cheering words of the poet,
and say,

' When all thy mercies, O ra/ God !

My rising soul surveys,
Transported with the view, I *m lost

In wonder, love, and praise.'

" If ever I lived in happiness, I do now. Being
at a covenant-meeting this new year, I w;is MI en
abled to deliver up my MHI! to God by living faith
as I never was before. I Iiad been reading in the
Methodist Magazine for January and February,

24 MEMOIRS OF T1IK

1799, a sormon concerning the scriptural method of
MiiThnj in order to obtain present and eternal salva
tion, from John vi. 29 : ' This is the work of God,
that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.' I think
I never heard or read the way of faith so plainly
described. The author says, that * believing, in
order to obtain salvation, is a lifting up of the heart
to Christ in earnest desire, the receiving of him with
fervent affections, the conversing daily and hourly
with him in supplication and praise, the looking to
him with a single eye, and diligently hearkening to
his voice.' I have likewise thought very much of
late on the word eternity, which may be found in
Isai. Ivii. 15. This has been a spur to my soul ; but
still I feel to my hurt the old corruptions of my
nature arise and trouble me. I hope the constant
cry of my heart is, 'Lord, I am thine : save me from
pride, anger, and all other things that are contrary
to thy will !' — Please to recollect," he adds in a post
script, "that tempus fut/it ; and also remember to
pray, pray, pray, pray tor me!"

In a letter to the same excellent friend, dated June
9th, 1810, he gratefully mentions the happiness he
enjoyed in the society of Mr. Lord, who had at that
time begun to preach. " He truly lightens all my
burdens by taking a large share of tin 'in. We can
open our minds to each other; reprove, iulinnni-h,
encourage, edify, strengthen, and bear with each
other ; and thus ' fulfil the law of Christ.' I feel my
soul at full stretch," he observes, " for all the in in*
that was in Christ. The Lord grant it to us for Christ'
sake!" In the postscript of this 1 • fn- IIP adds, in

REV. DAVID bTONKH. 25

larger character, doubtless as an expression of his
own desires, timl a direction to his correspondent, the
Vulgate translation oi'tliat comprehensive beatitude,
Matt, v. <>, " Blessed are they which do hunger and
thirst after righteousness : for they shall be filled,"
— " quoniam ipsi saturalntntur."

S, ].« inli'T -J-.M, 1810, he writes to the same, — "I
am glad tn hear you wish to be more like your divine
Head. I could wish the same. I want a steady,
firm fixedness to the point, and that is to glorify God
in every thing. O Sir, if you and I, in every cir
cumstance of life, could only do the same that Christ
would have done had he been in it, how delightfully
w e should go on ! Heaven on the road to heaven !
— Brother Lord seems to me to be devoted to the
service of God. He is very lively ; and, thank God,
we live together in peace and unity. I trust that
we both have communion with the Holy Spirit. O
may I, you, and he, be continually leaving the
'thing-; that are behind,' and stretching forward,
through sunshine and darkness, to the 'prize of our
high calling,' — that is, a heart emptied of pride,
and 'filled with all the fulness of God.' I feel the
temptations of youth very strong. May the Jx>rd
assist me to overcome them ! I want my heart sancti
fying from all its pollutions, making holy, and en
tirely d, 'voted to God. Pray for me! If you have
any interest at the throne of grace, < ) make use of it
for me ! ''

During the former part of the time that he spent
at Mr. Sigston's, he experienced much bodily languor
and debility. He grew very fast, and occasionally
D

2(3 M KM <il I!S OF THE

discovered symptoms of an unfavourable nature in
reference to his health. In the spring of 1810, lie
was so feeble that sometimes he could scarcely walk,
nay, very often fell down. By the kind attentions
of Mrs. Sigston, however, and his own regular
habits, accompanied with the blessing of God, he soon
acquired strength, and. as he advanced towards
maturity, became more capable of active and vigor
ous exertion : though liis constitution seems never to
have been a firm one.

To the advantageg which lie possessed in the se
minary at Leeds, he always referred with grateful
and affectionate feeling. Writing to the Rev. John
Smith, whose society he enjoyed for a season as a
Christian friend and assistant in the same establish
ment, he styles Claypit Academy, " that lovely, de
lightfully remembered spot ;" and in a letter addressed
to Mr. Sigston, from Holmfirth, he gives utterance
to his recollections in the following terms: — "As
soon as I think of writing to you, what a number of
ideas, what a diversity of emotions, rush into my
mind, and fill my trembling soul ! Gratitude and
humiliation, joy and grief, pleasure and pain, by
turns transport and depress my agitated heart. No
sooner does your name present itself to my recollec
tion, then I am involuntarily led to take a retrospect
of my life for the past six years. The former and
greater part of that period I spent under your hos
pitable roof, and watchful eye. You cared for my
welfare. You promoted my increase of knowledge.
You bore with my youthful levities, with my crooked
natural dispositions, \\ith my careless inconsiderate-

KF.V. DAY I I) STONKIt. 2/

iv wanderings t'roni duty, my derelictions of
principle ; — 'in<l under your superintending care the
youth approached tomanliood. Surely then I ought
to evince my gratitude by every possible; token of
dutiful affection ; and such a token I humbly hope
you will consider the lines you are now reading."

To a person who attentively surveys Mr. Stoner's
conduct in the youthful part of his life, one thing
must appear particularly deserving of regard, —
tliiit In- was always careful to discharge the duties
which lay before him with diligence and assiduity,
and without indulging vain anticipations of futurity.
Many neglect this. They direct their minds to the
uncertain occurrences of subsequent life ; — the period
will arrive, they fondly imagine, when they shall
have an object correspondent to their power* ; in
the mean time, the duties of their present station
are either entirely neglected, or carelessly performed.
Such ruin their own projects. The precious season
in which they ought to lay the foundation of future
eminence and ii-el'iilnc^, is wasted ; and the irre
solution, indolence, and propensity to indulge in vi
sionary schemes, which mark the proceedings of tin ir
early days, usually attend them through life. To
persons of this description I)a\ id Stoncr stands in
pointed and in-tructi\e contrast. Resigning the
contingencies of futurity to the direction of Pro
vidence, he \\a< solicitous to perform the duty
of the day in it- day. "He \\lpi i faithful in
tint which is little," affords the b.^t hope that
lie \\ill be •' faithful also in much." Fidelity in one
Mtuation prepares for honourable employment in
n -2

28 MKMOIltS 01' THK

another. This was exemplified in the subject of
these memoirs. He was faithful in teaching the
boys the rudiments of learning, and was gradually
fitted for the high office of teaching men the trutlis
and blessings of religion. The steps by which he
was conducted into this wider and more important
sphere of beneficial labour will next demand our
attention.

I I \ I>.\ VI I) STOXKlt.

CHAPTER III.

•' v <m tin" I hrixtian ministry — Mr. Sfoner's early
iiictii.ufidii (nicards it — His solicitude to ascertain the
cluiiiix of i! lit;/ — lie carefully examines his views and
l'i-iiii-iplrs hi relation to the ministry — Still hesitate*
—At tenytli makes two attempts to preach ; but is dis
courage/I, and det>ists — Renews fits efforts - //('* obser-
riitri.in on a call to the ministry — He in admitted an a

' tititmer on the Local Preachers' plan, and afler-
\rards placed on the List of Reserve— His sentiments on
preiirh'inj with the Spirit, and on other ministerinf
ij'i/ilif cations— Hix diligence in preparing for the
pulpit — Anecdote «f the Rev. J 'fin Smith — He is re-

>tt'tl to accompany Dr. Coke to India, lint declines
— Jx recommended to trnrrl, and employed in the
Leeds Circuit — His exemplary conduct, and rni-nii-
raging promixe of future eminence.

UK wlio undertakes tin- office of flic ('hn<'j;Mi
ministry, entries in a work heyond all others im
portant and difficult. The truths which his duty
requires him to inculcnte nre divine and heiivenly,
einlinx •!)!'_' tlie hiuhe-t interests of the soul, aticl con-
nectintr themselves with the de-tinies of eternity.
The time which he oecujiies in liis pulilic labours is
tlie mo-t \ahiahle jiortion of our earthly existence,
— the sacred hours of the Sal-hath, nnd other M 1.. t
jierioiN won from the multiplied care- ninl » mpjuv -
I:K tit- i'l lite. r|'n adapt his i]i-trurtioii< to the cir-
ci.m-tances :nic! wants of every individiril. to main-
1«tiu coiistnnt and iuviolaMe fidelit to Him " \vho<r

30 MKMOIHS OK TUB

he is, nnd whom he serves," — and to enforce ;ill hi*
admonitions by the perpetual comment of a holy
life, — are objects which demand his incessant atten
tion. The responsibility which attaches to his person
and exertions is ineffably great. Justly may any one
tremble at the magnitude and obligations of such an
office. The Apostle of the Gentiles, though he pos
sessed a mind of unrivalled powers, and, with the
clearest views and most mature Christian excellencies,
enjoyed the rich gift of miraculous endowments, wa.i
constrained to exclaim, when he sun-eyed the requi
sitions and tendencies of his ministerial function,
" Who is sufficient for these things? " To the ordi
nary sciences, arts, and avocations of human life,
the ordinary powers and attainments of human
nature may be equal : to the successful exercise of
the Christian ministry something more is necessary.
They who have used the greatest diligence, and ac
quired tlie most estimable qualifications, will be the
first to acknowledge their entire dependence on the
IToly Spirit's agency, and to say, with the strongest
emphasis of humble and prayerful feeling, " Our
sufficiency is of God."

With such considerations as these the mind of
David Stoner was deeply affected. He was fully
convinced that a Preacher of the Gospel ought to be
Do novice in Christian experience, or Chri-tian \\is-
i;om; that to him all solid acquisitions are valuable,
but a comprehensive, clear, and sound knowledge of
sacred theology, indispensable ; and, above all, that
he needs, the " unction of the Holy One." — T<> a —
that he was called of God to this momentous

REV. DAVID STONDU. 31

employment, caused him much painful and anxious
inquiry; and this portion of his history afford* ;m
fviimplr, cr|U!d]y interesting and instructive, of the
secret workings of a serious mind in the prospect of
the most serious of all engagements, — cautious in its
deliberations, slow in its movements, hut ultimately
firm in its decisions.

F.arly in life he appears to have had a persuasion
that, if faithful to the grace of God, he should event
ually he called to the service of the sanctuary. This
ix'mittsion became more lively and powerful amid
the religious exercises which engaged his attention,
first ;it Harwick, and afterwards at Rochdale. His
most intimate associates thought they could then
discover in him the elements of an ahle and useful
Minister of Jesus Christ. To himself, however, his
invincible timidity seemed to present an insuperable
objection. He, therefore, concealed the desires and
predilection of his heart : he durst not think it pos
sible that such a one as he should ever fill a station so
honourable ami arduous as that of the ministry; but,
;it the same time, he was led imperceptibly to pursue
that course of study and spiritual discipline which
verved gradually to prepare him for the profitable

lischarge of its duties-.
The first time any notice presents itself, in his

pistohiry correspondence, of the impression which
retly cherished, is in his letter to Mr. Gregory,
partly quoted already, of June Oth, 1810. " I have
t<nnrlJihif/,'J he s-ys, " con tinually on my breast.
Perhaps you may recollect my timid spirit; hut as
you are a ho^.m friend, I will tell it you. It K

32 MEMOIRS OF THE

this : — something suggests, ' Go and preach the < ;<>s-
pel ;' but whether it be self, Satan, or the Spirit of
God, how ean I discover ? Sometimes the thought
arises, ' How can it be self, when I am of so back
ward a disposition? How can it be Satan? Surely
jte would wish no man to preach.' But O ! what
must I do? Give me your advice. I hope you will
disclose the above to no one."

His friend replied, and made some observations on
the subject of his inquiry. To him Mr. Stoner writes
again in the month of September, expresses his HIM-
titude for the advice he had received, and mentions
the growing conviction he felt of the importance of
tlii! work which lie contemplated, — a conviction much
strengthened by his reading a short essay on the
" Qualifications and Duty of a Christian Miir-
extracted from Dr. Bates.* — "I know," he adds,
"if the Lord has designed me to preach the G<»pel,
he will open the way for me ; but I fear I have
rejected an offer at least onre. Every day I more
and more see my own ignorance, weakness, and
insufficiency for such a work ; but I know God is all
wisdom, strength, and sufficiency ; and he can impart
these blessings to me. If I ask him in a proper
manner, I believe he will do it; for it is his word,
' If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of (io<!,
that giveth to all nun liberally, and upbraideth
not; and it shall !»• gi\en him.' I heard Mr.
Marsden on Wednesday evening, from, ' What-

* See the Methodist Magazine for October and Noveun-

HKV. DAVID STONER. 33

ye -hull ask the Father in my jiame, he will give it
you.' I was much encouraged under this sermon.
I well remember the observation of a literary aud
pious gentleman on the subject of asking wisdom.
' If,' said he, ' you ask wisdom of God, he will give
you a little ; and if you make good use of that, he
will give you a little more ; and so on in proportion.'
And if God has given me a little, and I make no use
of it, — I tremble at the idea! What! hiding my
talent in a clean napkin! God forbid! May he
teaeh me \\isdoin secretly."

Shortly after this he was seized with a dangerous
lever, which reduced him to a 8tate of great debility.
When he was recovered, he wrote again to his cor-
re!.p< indent at Nottingham, February 13th, 1811, and
adverted to the ends which he supposed his heavenly
Father might have in view in afflicting him;— to
make him more thankful for the blessing of good
health, — to increase his love to Himself, — and, per
haps, to chasten him for not yielding to his convic
tions and beginning to preach ; " for he showed me,"
he observes, " how easily he could take all m
powers entirely away.' I have not yet begun, and
know not what to do. I have such a continual strug
gle in my poor soul between two contending parti< ~,
(but v ho they are, I know not,) one pushing th.'
way, tlic other pulling (juite the contrary, that some
times when it is -u^r^ted, 'Give it entirely up,' 1
almost think of listening to the suggestion. My
natural temper is so opposed to sueli an office, — lam
so timid and diffident, that to think of preai-himj
makes me st.iggiT .mil shrink from the duty. 1'er-

34 MEMOIRS OF THE

haps you would advise me to mention the subject to
some of the friends at Leeds : but that is what in me
'human nature trembles at.' After many mature
considerations, however, I came to the resolution of
uaming it to my master and Mr. Lord, but ' under a
mantle.' An opportunity offered itself. Mr. Sigstoii
asked me one evening what were my intentions as
to future life. I said, ' I have thought something
about being a Church Minister ; but I suppose, as I
am circumstanced, that it is nearly impossible.' No
more passed at that time ; but afterwards he advi-ed
me, first, to examine what my reasons were for
desiring to be a Minister, and, then, to ascertain
where it seemed most probable that I was called to
exercise my ministry. This I have endeavoured to
do, but have not yet had an opportunity of stating to
him my conjectures upon the subject. I have since
laid open my mind to Mr. Lord, and desired him to
speak to Mr. Sigston for me ; but he has not yet
done it. So here I am at a stand ! quite unhappy !
My eternity of happiness is diminishing ! I am
neglecting my duty, and my soul is at stake ! Lord,
help me ! "

He then recites the examination into which he had
entered of his views and motives in reference to
the ministry. This turns chiefly on the two points
suggested by Mr. Sigston. The importance of the
following extract will, it is presumed, abundantly
justify its length: —

"FiRST. What are the reasons that induce im to
think of preaching ? The glory of God,— the bem-fi t
of my fellow-creatures, — and the silvatimi "t' my <>\\ n

•mil.

Itl.V. DAVID STOXKH. 35

•' 1. The glory of God. Men were made 10 glorify

God; but Adam fell into sin, and has entailed his

sin upon all his posterity. Of ourselves, therefore,

we cannot glorify God. But Christ has died for us ;

and through his blood, and that alone, we may

glorify God. Men, however, naturally dishonour

God as much as lies in their power : they trample

upon the Saviour's blood as an unholy thing. Now,

can I in any way glorify God more than by becoming

an instrument in his hands to induce souls to turn

from their wicked ways, and live to his glory ? —

Besides, God has appointed a station for every man

he sends into the world ; and, consequently, one for

me. I conceive that it is scarcely, if at all, possible

that a man should properly glorify God out of that

station which is designed for him. If then God has

deigned me to be a Preacher of his Gospel, I think

I can scarcely, if at all, glorify him, if I be not one.

•••J. The benefit of my fellow-creatures. God

made men not only to glorify him, but to be eternally

happy. But they have wandered from his ways

1 like lost sheep.' They are ' taken captive by the

devil at his will.' They feed upon the husks and

shells of the wilderness. They are blind and poor,

wretched and miserable, deaf and dumb ; nay, more,

tlit y urc 'dead in trespasses and gins.' God himself

says, ' There is no peace to the wicked : they are

like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose

waters cast up mire and dirt.' Besides all this

there is a 'fearful looking for' of eternal pniii>hment

and woe. This, if God's grace prevent not, is the

lot of all the children if Adam. Can I then be more

36 MEMOIRS OP THE

beneficial to my fellow-creatures than by being em
ployed to let them know the day of their salvation .'
F could wish all men to be happy. I could wish all
men to glorify God ; to live a life of peace on earth,
and at last to reign with him in the heavenly regions
for ever and ever. When I look round on the world,
lying, comparatively speaking, in the arms of the
wicked one ; when I see men sinful and wretched,
and consider that many, many know it not ; my
heart yearns over them, and I would fain be instru
mental in doing them good.

"3. The salvation of my own soul. In my present
state of mind, I am quite miserable. I think, (right
or wrong I know not,) while I have so strong a con
viction that I ought to preach, and preach not, I
cannot be saved : for this reason, — I think it is my
duty; I do not perform my duty ; how then can I
expect salvation ? I am so uneasy and unsettled, I
have such a burden upon my spirit, that sometimes
I am almost ready to give all up. Lord, help me !
— Ever since I first set out in the ways of religion,
the ministry has in general been the first thing in
my thoughts. Before I went to Rochdale, \\lnn
there was a revival of religion among the youth of
my native village, and we often met together, I was
the Preacher for them. What happy days wrn>
those! — Besides, what I consider as most decisive,
when I live nearest to God, and enjoy most of his
love, then, and then only, do my desires after the
ministry increase. On the contrary, when I am
cold and languid, my desires become weak and
drooping. But what shall I do? Perhaps you

RKV. DAVID STONEK. 37

|;;i\c iv.id the first part of the memoir of Mr. Robert
Lomas.* I thank God that I have received much
benefit from it. He seems to have been of the like
disposition with me. He observes, that he had
' openings of the word of God to his mind, and plans
of discourses often presented.' That is just my case.
— Now I think I have mentioned all my reasons for
wi-hing to be a Preacher. Please to give me your
opinion. Are they sufficient, or are they not? I
wish Mr. Sigston knew them us well as you now do.
I thank God that I am able to declare my mind so
fully to you. But you are at a great distance from
me ; and of all friends, I would soonest state my
feelings to the most distant. I think you have no
acquaintance at Leeds to whom you could reasonably
and \\isely mention this subject.

"SECONDLY. I am to ascertain, if I can, where
it is most probable that I am called to exercise my
miuistry. On this point I fancy I need not study
iniu-li. There are only two religious communities to
which T can conscientiously unite myself, — the
Methodists, and the established Church. The ques
tion is, Which shall I choose? You may think it
impracticable that one in my humble circumstances
of life should become a Minister of the Establishment.
I doubt not, however, that if I were fully bent upon
it, I could manage that point." — He then repeats the
reasons, mentioned above, which induced him to

* The memoir of Mr. Looms, an uncommonly interest
ing and edifying piece of Christian biography, is inserted
in the Methodist Magazine for January, February, March,
and April, 1811.

38 MEMOIRS OP THE

think of tho ministry, and particularly inquires
whether, in his case, he should have the fairest pro
spect of glorifying God, of promoting the spiritual
interests of his fellow-creatures, and of securing his
personal salvation, as a Clergyman of the Establish
ment, or a Minister in the Methodist Connexion.
The result is, that he modestly, but firmly, gives the
preference to the Methodist Connexion. " Besides,"
he subjoins, "if I go to the University in order to my
becoming a Minister of the Establishment, my powers
must lie dormant until I am twenty-three years of
age; whereas, among the Methodists, I might be
instrumental in the conversion of many souls before
then. But I have an unquenchable desire placed in
me after learning; and if I went to the University, I
should have a far better opportunity of obtaining
literary qualifications than I can expect among the
Methodists. But what is that? Comparatively,
nothing in the sight of God."

After this careful investigation of his principles and
motives, it might be expected that he would imme
diately make trial of his abilities for the pulpit.
Timidity, however, again prevailed, and painfully
retarded his purposes. He suffered peculiar disad
vantages from that excessive reserve which would
not allow him freely to unbosom his mind to others.
About this time he prepared a letter to a great and
good man, in which he stated his feelings, and parti
cularly asked from what source the inclinations he
had could arise? Did they spring from self? He
thought they might ; for he was proud. He thought,
again, they did not; he was so timid. Did th>-y

REV. DAVID STONKR. 39

spring from Sutan? He saw it was possible that the
d<vil ini-_'lit stimulate one to run \vlio was not sent.
Did they come from the Holy Spirit? This was the
question he wanted solving. But when he had
\\ i-itteu his letter, he had not courage to send it. It
n additional inconvenience to him that he was
now deprived of the society of Mr. Lord, who at the
Midsummer of this year quitted Mr. Sigston's, and
shortly afterwards entered into the regular ministry.
In a letter to Mr. Gregory, dated July 5th, he
says, " I very much admire your fine remarks on the
pleasure of conveying our thoughts to each other,
though at a great distance. This I think an ines
timable blessing. You write, 'I hope I am en
deavouring to live in an increasing conformity to the
will of God.' Well, I can only say, Go on, and
prosper ; for this is the very end for which you were
.•rented. — With regard to myself, I have but very
poor news. I have not begun to sound the Gospel
trumpet, and I think now I never shall. I am still
-tnmgly persuaded that the call was from God ; but,
through my resisting the impulse, it has now almost
(mite left me ; and, consequently, my soul is more
dead, lifeless, and carnal, than it has ever been since
I was brought out of 'darkness into light.' I fear I
si mil never hold up my head more. I have been of
late so tossed and tempted, that I am now so melan-
rholy and dejected, that I sometimes think I shall
lose my reason. Lord God of heaven and earth,
have mercy upon me ! My two great hinderances are
flmidifi/ and pride. I beg you will write soon, and
say something that may benefit me. I am spending

i a

40 MK.MuillS OF TUB

the vacation," he adds in a postscript, "at Mr.
Sigston's, as he is from home. We have three young
men in the house, who are going to Sierra- Leone,
hnder the direction of Dr. Coke, to teach the Heathen ;
— so I am desired to stay here and teach them. The
Lord of heaven and earth have mercy upon me ! "

By the repeated persuasions of Mr. Sigston, and
several other friends, he at length consented to make
an attempt, and preached his first sermon in a small
school-room in Park-lane, Leeds, October 17th, 1811,
from Prov. xviii. 24 : "There is a friend that sticketh
closer than a brother." Contrary to his expectation,
there was a considerable congregation, among whom
were several Local Preachers. He felt much confu
sion and embarrassment, and was greatly discouraged.
Three days afterwards, however, he was induced
to accompany Mr. Sigston and his friend Mr. Dobson
lo Kirkstall-Forge, where Mr. Sigston had been ap
pointed to preach. Mr. Stoner consented to supply
for him ; but on approaching the pulpit, his • ourage
seemed to fail him, and, observes Mr. Sigston, "per
ceiving him about to retire, I stepped forward, and
with some difficulty got him into the pulpit: so that
it may be said of him, with even literal truth, that he
•was ' thrust out into the harvest.' " At this time he
preached from John ix. 27: "Will ye also be his
disciples?" and experienced somewhat more freedom
than he had done on the former occasion. To Mr.
Gregory he writes on the 24th of the same month,
"I find it is a great blessing to have friends to whom
wr can open all our minds, and from whom we can
receive Christian advice and consolation. Such a

KKV. DAVID STOKEll. 41

friend have you been to me; and as I shall never be
able to make a suitable return, 1 most ardently pray
that the choicest of God's blessings may rest upon
you in lilt-, death, and to all eternity. — I have some
thing to relate \vhic-li, I dare say, will please you. I
have taken your advice concerning my call to the
ministry. I have made the attempt. I preached the
tii>t time in a small Sunday school-room, in an ob
scure part of the town. I did it as secretly as possible,
but, tc my great astonishment, seven or eight Local
Preachers were present; on which account, through
tlic weakness of my faith and trust in God, 1 did not
Itvl that liberty and composure of mind which I ex
pected : ;it which I was greatly cast down and discon
certed. My friends, however, expressed their satis
faction; and, by their encouragement, I went with
M r. Sigston to a small village on the Sabbath, and
stood up again, when I experienced more liberty and
•power, and the blessing of the Lord attended his word.
Hut < > ! what cogitations and imaginations have since
1 through my mind! I am still scarcely satisfied
•whether it he the will of God or not that I should
engage in the ministry. — A thought strikes me," he
remarks, "while I am writing. Perhaps if we were
to meet in the streets, we should not know each other-
We are changeable and changing. — Dear Sir, do not
forget to pray, and for me. I often remember you."
His friends rejoiced that he had been prevailed
upon to make a trial ; and, with the concurrence
of a meeting of the Local Preachers, he nrei\ed
u note from the Rev. James Wood, then Snper-
. nt ,,f the Leeds Circuit, authorizing him
E 3

42 HKMOI11S OF TIIK

to exercise bis talent for preaching the Gospel,
and requesting the people to encourage him in his
labours ami pray for his success. Outlines of his
first two sermons are extant, from which it is plain,
to adopt the language of Mr. Lord, "that they
were very instructive and awakening, crowded with
important sentiments, though perhaps not display
ing that lucid order and copious argumentation so
conspicuous in his more matured compositions."
He was, however, overwhelmed with discouraire-
ment, and for four months durst not venture \<
to enter the pulpit. At length he was constrained
to make another effort. "I found," says he, in a
letter to Mr. Gregory, of March 7th, 1812, " that I
could not live. I was going, fast going down the
stream of delusion and vanity. I summoned courage
to try other twice the last two Sundays : but I fed,
O ! I feel unutterable pangs. When I stand up, my
fimbs tremble, my voice falters, my ideas are con
fused, and all my faculties of body and soul seem
to be convulsed. But, thanks to God ! He stands
up with me ; gives me tolerable liberty of speech ;
blesses me in my own soul; and, as far as I can
learn, favours me with some tokens of success among
the people." It afforded his friends much satisfaction
to find that he had resumed his pulpit labours.
His note from Mr. Wood was renewed ; and during
fhe remaining part of the year 1812 he often
preached in different places, with increasing corn-
fort to himself and advantage to his hearers.

It may not be improper to insert here his obser
vations on the most satisfactory evidences of a call

UKV. DAVID STONER. 43

to the ministerial office, extracted from a letter
which he wrote several years afterwards to Mr.
Joseph Jennings ; and a copy of which, with some
other interesting documents, Mr. J.has kindly com
municated to the writers of these pages. "You
u-k, ' What are the marks whereby a person may
know that he is called of God to preach the Gos
pel ? ' To make the matter as simple as possible, I
would say, 1. An inward impression on the mind
made by the Spirit of God. This impression will
lead you to think about preaching, texts, sermons,
&e., and will be most vivid when you are nm-t
alive to God. 2. The call of the church. Perhaps
this will be known by some individuals inviting you
to begin, and then by the general approbation and
encouragement you will meet with after you have
IM-IIII. But remember there must be & fair trial.
You must preach fifty times before you conclude
to give it up. And you must not be swayed by the
opinion of one or two individuals, either for or against,
but by the general opinion. I am fully satisfied
that I am called of God ; yet a good man, and a
man of renown, expressed it as his opinion, after
hearing my first sermon, that I was not called to the
work. And you will soon ascertain the general
opinion without making inquiries. Indeed, a man
who makes inquiries how his hearers like his sermons,
is sure to be despised. By the invitations you re
ceive, by tlip congregations you have, by the notiro
taken of you by the Preachers, and by the uninvited
opinions of some who will tell you what they think.
Mm will soon ascertain the general opinion of the

44 M KM OIKS OK THE

church. 3. Success in your work. A Preacher
called of God must, in some way or other, have
success. Nothing can satisfy a Preacher of God's
making and calling hut souls. ' And he that win-
neth souls is wise.' — You mention the acuteness of
your feelings, and distress of your mind. This, I
think, is all in favour of your call. The torture of
mind I passed through on that subject none but God
Almighty knows. You must not be governed l>y
your feeling f, but by your Judgment, making its
decision according to the word ot God."

At the ('hristma? Quarterly Meeting of the same
year, he was admitted, as a probationer, on the Local
Preachers' Plan for the Leeds Circuit. In a letter
to Mr. Gregory, dated February 23d, 1813, he com
plains that he is ignorant of himself, God, the Bible,
the great work of preaching, and everything else
that lie ought to know ; that his sermons are too
frothy and light, and contain too little of experience
and the word of God. His censure of himself, how
ever, was always severe ; and, happily, the dis
couraging sentence which he pronounced was not
supported by the suffrages of his hearers. He speaks
no more of relinquishing his efforts, but expresses his
intention, by the assistance of God, to try a little
longer. He afterwards indulges in the follow in <;
serious reflections: — " How dreadful is our situation!
Immortal worms, placed for a moment on the crum
bling precipice of time, betwixt the two unbounded
oceans of eternity ! endowed with reason and fret-
agency! born into the world, surrounded with dark
ness and ignorance! captivated by our hi-t-! p<>>=-

REV. r»AVID STONER. 4-3

i >y Satan ! allured by desires ! deceived by
prejudices! biased by sensual gratifications! led
astray by example ! and yet accountable for every
thought, for every word, for every action ! — How
great, limv infinitely great, is the blessing of early
piety ! Ir-> advantages are inconceivable here below;
but they will chiefly discover themselves throughout
eternity."

In his next letter to the same friend, of April 1st,
he speaks of his name having been inserted at a late
Meeting of the Local Preachers, on the List of Re
serve ; as a proper person, we suppose he means, to
be recommended in the regular way for the \Ves-
leyan Itinerancy. " I thunk God," he subjoins,
" that he yet enables me to speak a few words for
him. I do not feel such a reluctance to ascend the
pulpit as I used to do. My four begins to wear off, und
I am enabled to speak with more precision, firmness,
and ease. But timidity and blushing backwardness
are so deeply rooted in my nature, that it will be
with difficulty, rf ever, that I get completely master
of them. When I have liberty in the pulpit, I find
preaching delightful work ; but when I am enilnir-
• 1, I could wish myself almost anywhere out of
the .-iirlit of the people. One thing I discover, — that
\\henl have an indifferent >< ;i><>n, I can generally
trace the cause of it to iny-elt', and find it lias arisen
from my own fear, unbelief, tbrgett'uliiess, or indo
lence. — I want direction from heaven coni-emim;
my future station and conduct in life. My heart is
divided on the subject. One part suggests, 'Enter
into a trade, or something else of that kind ' Another

40 MKMOIRS OK THE

says, ' Go out as a Travelling Preacher.' Now \vliat
am I to do ? I wish to lie as clay in the hands of the
Potter, and say, ' Thy will be done.' I believe there is
a certain track cut out for me in life by divine Pro
vidence. If I enter upon and continue in this track,
I shall be happy and successful ; if I do not, all will
be unfortunate and miserable. Now I want to see the
designs of Providence open before me ; and after
wards I shall want strength to follow them. This
placing me upon the List of Reserve,— is it an
opening of Providence, or not? Pray what is the
counsel of my friend on this important subject?"

On the necessity of seeking the constant aid of the
Holy Spirit in the discharge of pulpit duty, he makes
the following just and impressive observations in the
same letter: — "The greatest, the best, the most use
ful, the most necessary qualification for a Preacher,
is the Spirit. Without the influence of the Spirit,
sinners are crawling monsters, incarnate fiends;
Christians are as a body without a soul; ordinances
are fountains without water; Ministers are windows
without light; providences are clouds without rain;
promises are trees without fruit. But with the Spirit,
cur prayers \vill be prevalent; our faith will be
strong; our hope will be blooming; our love will be
increasing; our preaching will be useful; our exhor
tations will be fiery; our consolations will be heart-
e.ising; our warnings will be solemn; our reproofs
will be pungent : our invitation* will be encouraging;
our introductions will be easy; our divisions will be
natural; and our applications will be close. Thus,
<\ itli the strength of God in our arms, and the sword

REV. D.VVin STONER. 4/

of tlio Spirit in our hands, \\e shall be enabled to cut
and divide betwixt sinners and their sins; to lop oft
all useless and injurious branches ; to cut offall right-
hand sins; — and thus the work of God will prosper
in our hands. O let us, above every other, and with
every other, qualification, seek the Spirit! Hear a
Preacher without the Spirit: you will find him dull,
inactive, dead, useless, — unless it be to talk people to
sleep. His sermon is without point, without edge.
In short, he is just the reverse of what I have been
describing. But near n Preacher urith the Spirit;
and how contrary the effect! Though he may laboui
under disadvantages with regard to voice, manner,&c.,
yet you will perceive that he himself feels what he
says, and you will feel it likewise. An unction will
attend what he advances, and bring it home warm to
your conscience. Lord, give us the Spirit!"

"Some persons," he adds, "are of opinion that a
Preacher of the Gospel ought to have nothing to do
with the embellishments of oratory, &c. I think
differently. I think we ought to seize every help,
\\lietlier oratory, rhetoric, logic, or what not. Hence
I would learn to read in the best manner; to speak
and deliver what I have to say in the best manner ;
in short, to do everything in the best manner.
Hence I should wish to acquire every attainment
which may assist :i Minister to appear and acquit
himself in the pulpit with advantage. Truly there
is an extreme on the other side, in over-reaching the
matter ; but I think a speaker may proceed a long
way before he approaches anything of that sort."
Mr. Lord correctly observes, that Mr. Stoiier \\ ;u

48 MEMOIRS OF THE

" from the first deeply convinced of the necesmty of
having ' beaten oil' for the sanctuary." He was,
therefore, very diligent in his preparations for the
pulpit. " There is a system," he remarks in one of
his letters to Mr. L., " that some Preachers whom
I know frequently follow; — they preach what I call
spun-sennons. Mr. — , I should suppose, acts in this
manner. He is one of the most tedious Preachers I
ever heard. You may sit for a quarter of an hour
while the poor man .is puffing, and blowing, and
tugging to get some idea thrown out to you; and
when it does come, it is perhaps only what you have
had before, or some idea which you might perceive
to arise out of the passage with less than half a
moment's consideration. He will begin a sentence,
and before he gets halfway through it will meet with
something that he supposes needs explanation ; — then
he immediately enters the terrible enclosure of a pa
renthesis, and perhaps before he has half finished that
explanation, something else presents itself. He then
turns his attention to it, and so goes on multiplying
parenthesis within parenthesis, explanation of explan
ation, till he is completely lost in the labyrinth, and
gives up the chase. From such preaching, 'good
Lord, deliver us.'" From such preaching he was
delivered. Knowing the value of close and persever
ing study, he laboured to be a scribe instructed unto
the kingdom of heaven, " bringing forth out of his
treasure things new and old." It was his endeavour
that his sentiments should at once be valuable in
themselves, and correctly arranged. His sermons,
jherefore, were not a collection of excellencies thrown

REV. DAVID STONER. 4!>

into a confused heap; his sentences were not pearls
un-truiiL', which require considerable pains to collect
and unite them in order to see their beauties. There
was always a regular chain of argumentation in his
discourses, where the first link naturally connected
it-til' \\ith the next, and that with the next, until he
came to the conclusion.*

It will not escape the reader's notice, that in ex
amining his call to the ministry, Mr. Stoner invari
ably associated with his obedience to it, a deep and
painful solicitude for his personal salvation. This
became a settled principle with him. He seems
always to have thought, that for a man to trifle with
a serious conviction of the duty of engaging in the
ministerial office, was to endanger his spiritual in
terests. The following incident, related by the Rev.
John Smith, may illustrate this. When Mr. Smith
was employed as assistant in Mr. Sigston's academy
he was strongly induced to attempt pulpit labour,
and consented to make a trial on a certain occasion.

* On this subject it may not be unsuitable to introduce
the following pointed remarks of the venerable Wesley, in
his Notes on our Lord's Sermon on the Mount : — " Through
this whole discourse, we cannot but observe the most exact
method which can possibly be conceived. Every paragraph,
every sentence is closely connected both with that which
precedes and that which follows it. And is not this the pat-
tern for every Christian Preacher? If any, then, are able to
follow it, without any premeditation, well: if not, let them
not dare to preach without it. No rhapsoily , no incoherency,
whether the things spoken be true or false, comes of the
Spirit of Christ."

F

60 MEMOIRS OF THE

His fears, however, overpowered him, and he did not
attend the appointment. He made another engage
ment, — to preach in Park-lane, where Mr. Stoner
had commenced his public work ; but as the time
approached, he yielded again to timidity, and retired
to the Teachers' room, intending not to make his
appearance at the place appointed. Mr. Stoner was
in the room. "I thought," said he to Mr. Smith,
"that you had agreed to preach to-night." "Yes,"
said the other, with much hesitation and embarr.i—
ment, "but I must give it up." "What," rejoined
Mr. Stoner, with severe and powerful emphasis, "do
you mean then to ruin yourself?" This pointed
question, resting a compliance with acknowledged
duty on a regard to personal safety, produced the
desired result. Mr. Smith immediately repaired to
Park-lane, and there commenced those pulpit exer
tions which have been happily and successfully con
tinued to the present time. — To the most devoted
Ministers of Christ such a feeling as that above men
tioned has been familiar ; and they have been prompt
ed to say, in humble imitation of the holy Apostle,
" Though we preach the Gospel, we have nothing to
glory of: for necessity is laid upon us; yea, woe is
unto us, if we preach not the Gospel ! For if we do
this thing willingly, we have a reward : but ifag:iin-t
our will, a dispensation of the Gospel is committed
unto us."

While Mr. Stoner pursued his occasional engage
ments as a Local Preacher, an opportunity seemed
to present itself of his entering into an untried and
most important field of action. Dr. Coke, who was

KT.V. DAVID STUNEK. "'1

then contemplating a Mission to Ceylon and Conti
nental Indiii, pa-M-d through Leeds, accompanied by
Mr. Clough. He had heard of Mr. Stoner's piety
mid promising talent, and called upon him to secure
his assistance as a Missionary. When he found that
Mr. Stoner understood the Portuguese language,
he urged his request the more earnestly, observing,
that Mr. S. might afford himself and associates
special assistance during the voyage. Mr. Stoner
willingly acceded to the Doctor's desire, on condition
that the full consent of his parents could be obtained.
"U IH 'ii they were consulted, Mrs. Stoner, who was
both an affectionate and judicious woman, and un
commonly attached to her son David, could not give
her approbation to the scheme; which was therefore
abandoned. The judgment of this excellent mother
appears to have been correct. It may reasonably be
doubted whether the constitution of Mr. Stoner was at
all adapted to a residence in an eastern climate, and
whether hN extreme diffidence would not have proved
an insurmountable obstacle to many of the peculiar
calls and engagements of an eastern Missionary.

It was Mr. Wood's intention to propose him for
the itinerancy in the year isl:?. To this he objected,
partly, as lie observes in a letter to Mr. Lord, on the
ground of his cngairi'inents with Mr. Si^ston ; and
partly on account of his youth, the state of his health,
his inexperience, his \\aiit of gravity, rirnme-s, and
competent ability. "I do not absolutely intend,"
he says, '• not to go out. 1 thank (iod, I have stu
died o\er thi> matter, and ju-t as I see that Cn>d
opens the \va\. I trust I shall say. 'Th\ will l>e
i %

52 MKMOIRS OP THE

done,' and follow." The objections which he ad
vanced, the just grounds of some of which none but
himself could discover, were overruled; and, at the
ensuing Conference, his name appears to have been
inserted on the President's List.

He was not called into the regular ministry, how
ever, until the beginning of the year 1814, when he
was directed to assist the Rev. Messrs. Morley, Bun
ting, and Filter, in the Leeds Circuit. It was an
arduous task to enter upon his more public office in
the place where he had been trained, and where he
knew that a Preacher's work was very difficult and
trying : but he experienced the greatest kindness
and consideration ; his growing talents were pro
perly and gratefully estimated ; and his labours in
this station were attended with much satisfaction to
himself, and spiritual profit to others.

Of his deportment during the period he spent at
Leeds, the Rev. George Morley, in whose house he
resided, has communicated the following account : —
" Having had the most favourable opportunity of
witnessing Mr. Stoner's spirit and conduct, I may
say that he entered on his work with great fear
and trembling, which arose from a sense of its vast
importance, and of his own insufficiency ; but I can
truly add, that his deep humility was never cor
rupted by a mixture of cowardice, nor did it ever
prevent him from boldly declaring the ' whole coun
sel of God' in his public ministrations. His appli
cation to private duties was remarkably close, and
his whole course of reading and study was pursued
with a single eye to the glory of God. The effect of

lil.\. I .AVID STOM.l:. 63

tins was secn~iii the great congregation, where his
PM filing appeared unto all. In the commencement
n|' his itinerancy he had many seals to his ministry,
ulio both on earth and in heaven will declare him
Messed. Such an entrance on his work raised high
expectations concerning his future usefulness, which,
I am persuaded, were fully realized."

The following solemn engagement is found on a
small slip of paper, written most probably in the.
place W'K re it i- dated : — " Hereby I, David Stoner,
rc-oke, in the strength of my God, to love Jesus
supremely, to serve him constantly, to follow him
fully, to trust in him confidently, and to attend him
closely; to delight in him only; to be his now, ficitff-
f'>nrar(l,i\iu\for ever, O God, pardon what is past,
and help me for the future ! Make me holy and
?/>•«;/';//.' — David Stoner, Leeds Old Chapel, April
(ith. INI 1 ; being this day twenty years old." On
the same paper he mentions the renewal of these
holy purp'.ses on two different occasions afterwards;
mid it \sill be discovered, from the subsequent part
of his life, that they were never practically forgotten.

To some it may appear that Mr. Stoner was called
f<>,i earl\ into the full employment of the ministry.
JIN, In. \\e\rr. \\as u peculiar case. He possessed a
maturity of mind, a depth of piety, and a gravity of
deportment, seldom found at his age. Who, that
considers how short hi- career has proved, will think
that he commenced it too soon? His conduct outfit
to atford no encouragement to those who, immature
in knowledge and experience, as well as in \ .
•i.nii thenudTM at once qualified for an office the
i 8

54 MEMOIRS OP THE

high obligations of which they have never seriously
considered. With such presumption and rashness
David Stoner will not be charged. He always acted
from conviction, and proceeded with caution ; — pre
senting, from the first, ample promise of his future
eminence. To him, in the successive stages of his
ministerial course, may not unjustly be applied the
highly figurative language which the Son of Sirach
uses concerning Simon the High Priest : — " He was
as the morning star in the midst of a cloud, and as
the moon at the full : as the sun shining upon the
temple of the Most High, and as the rainbow giving
light in the bright clouds : as the flower of roses in
the spring of the year, as lilies by the rivers of
waters, and as the branches of the frankincense-tree
in the time of summer : as fire and incense in the
censer, and as a vessel of beaten gold: -as a fair
olive-tree budding forth fruit, and as a cypress-tree
which groweth up to the clouds."*

» Ecclus. 1. 6—10.

REV. DAVID STONKU. V>

CHAPTER IV.

He remove* to the Holmfirth Circuit, where he zealously
and successfully pursues his ministerial labours —
Endangers his health by indiscreet exertion in the
pulpit — Observations on this subject — A description
of the place of his usual residence — His unabated con
viction of the importance of the ministry — Extract*
from his letters and diary — Anecdotes of an ignorant
hearer, of an infidel, and of a misei — Takes his leave
of his friends at Holmfirth and its vicinity with affec
tionate regret— Remarks on his diligent application
to study.

AT the Conference of 1814 he received an appoint-
ment to Holmfirth, near Huddersfield. In this
peaceful retreat he spoilt two happy and prosperous
years. His Superintendent was the late Rev. John
BrowneH, — a man for whom he entertained the
most affectionate esteem, and with whom he deemed
it a privilege to be associated in the same ministe
rial charge. Their attachment was mutual. They
laboured together in uninterrupted harmony,, and
parted with sincere regret. They have both now
'accomplished their warfare," and doubtless re
newed their int- Tr.mrse in a brighter and better
region.*

* See an exce lent memoir of Mr. Brownell, from the
pen of the Rev. Thomas Jackson, in the Wesleyan-Metho-
dist Magazine for January. February, March, and April,
1X23.

60 MEMOIRS OF THE

Mr. Stoner entered upon the duties of his new
station with peculiar zeal and activity. The state of
religion in different parts of the Circuit seems to
have been comparatively low ; and Mr. Brownell,
who was afflicted with a severe attack of nervous
fever, felt himself, for some time, unequal to his
wonted exertions. Tokens of prosperity, however,
soon appeared. Prayer-meetings were regularly
established ; — believers were edified ; — and not a few
instances occurred of sound and scriptural conver
sion. "Some of the most daring, hardened sinners
in tlio Circuit," says Mr. Stoner, in a letter to Mr.
Sigston, "are arrested by the word, and brought to
seek after God. These we receive as pledges of good,
as welcome drops before the teeming shower, as a
hopeful presage of the coming torrent. In some
places we have small revivals : in most, there is a
thirst for the word." The first time he preached at
Jlohnfirth, he selected for his text that appropriate
passage, Acts xi. 20, 21 : "And some of them were
men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were
come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preach
ing the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was
with them : and a great number believed and turned
unto the Lord." A powerful influence appears to
lia\e accompanied this sermon. Many were affected.
and, among the rest, Miss Hannah Roberts, who was
deeply convinced of her sin and want, and earnestly
sought, until she happily found, the consolations and
Mgs of religion. She was afterwards united in
marriage to Mr. Stoner, and for upwards of six
venrs had faithfully shared his joys and sorrows,

P.KV. DAVID STONKR. -">

when, by the mysterious appointment of divine
Providence, she finished her earthly course in the
prime and vigour of life.

The exertions of Mr. Stoner were at first too greut
for his bodily strength. He began to discover pain
ful symptoms of languor and infirmness, and became
sensible that lie must either change his mode of
preaching, or fall a sacrifice to his labours. His
utterance, though distinct, was uncommonly rapid,
— hie pauses short and few, — and his sermons fre
quently long. It cannot be said that he fell into the
error of those who draw their voice from the belly
rather than from the lungs and throat. His speech
flowed freely from its proper organs, but he ex
pressed himself with extreme vehemence, and too
much neglected the adaptation of the movements of
the body to the various parts of a di-eonr-e, which
serves so eminently to preserve a public speaker from
injury and exhaustion. His friends remonstrated
with him on these improprieties in his manner ; but
he replied, that when he attempted to reform them,
he almost invariably felt himself embarrassed : and,
intent on d-jin-r present good, he, with pardonable
but inconsiderate zeal, disregarded the consequences
which threatened his own health and life.

In the end, however, he was convinced of his mis
take, and endeavoured to correct it ; but his habits
were too strongly formed to do this entirely. To
young Preachers whom he saw exposed to the same
danger, he \va* ever ready to administer affectionate
counsel ; nor will it be unsuitable to introduce here
the following admonitions, addressed to the Rev.

58 MEMOIRS OF THE

Joseph Jennings, and expressive of his mature opi
nion on this subject :— " Take care of your health.
Do not shout and scream. Is it strength of voice that
saves souls, or the influence of the Spirit 1 If it is
not strength of voice, do not kill yourself before the
time. If you scream yourself into a consumption,
who will thank you ? Will the church of Christ ?
Will those who love you ? Will those souls thank
you, that might have been saved by your longer lite ?
Will Jesus Christ thank you ? No ; but devils may.
Avoid a cough as you would avoid the plague. Take
your work as you can bear it, especially till you get
seasoned. Your body is the ' temple of the Holy
Ghost.' Take heed you do not sap its foundation,
injure its walls, destroy its furniture, or harm its
roof. I heard a young man preach the other night,
who spoke with such rapidity that I never before
saw so clearly the disadvantage and evil of speaking
so fast. It appeared to me that the rapidity of the
speaker completely prevented any impression from
being made on the minds of the people. It was
almost impossible for me to think as fast as he talked;
and if this is the case with my preaching and yours,
what good can we expect to do ? "

To other young Ministers in the Wesleyan Con
nexion the above remarks will not be inapplicable.
Precluded, by the customs of the body to which they
belong, from the use of notes in the pulpit, — animated
by zealous ardour in the declaration of truth, — and
endowed with too small a portion of that unembar
rassed self-possession which persons more aged and
experienced tind it difficult at all times to maintain-

REV. DAVID STONEH. 59

it is not surprising that they are occasionally be-
i into intemperate and mismanaged exertions,
neither safe for themselves, nor beneficial to their
hearers. The opposite extreme is perhaps still
worse. A heavy and drowsy enunciation of the
everlasting verities of holiness and mercy, is intole
rable. But surely a just medium may be observed.
It was a saying of the Rev. Samuel Bradburn's, that
when he wished to be peculiarly energetic, he gene
rally endeavoured to be proportionally slow.

By a greater attention to his constitutional debi
lity, and to the manner of discharging his public
duties, Mr. Stoner's health was soon recruited ; nor
does he appear to have found it necessary to desist
from his ordinary labours. The situation in which
he was placed was very salubrious, — cold and ex
posed, indeed, in winter, but in spring and summer
inexpressibly beautiful and romantic. The fresh
mountain breezes seemed to infuse new vigour into
his languid frame. Of his usual residence he gives
the following account in one of his letters to Mr.
Gilpin : — "The scenes of my present stuge of ex
istence are friendly to reflection rather than descrip
tion. My situation resembles the reign of some
pacific Sovereign. It is pleasant to live in ; but its
annals are not the most splendid to record. 'The
periods which make life happy, do not always render
history brilliant.' I dwell in a snug retreat perehfcl
on the side of a mountain, at the loot of whirh the
river Colne winds through the valley. Between the
river and the house in which I reside, is the high
road from Huddersfield to Buxton, &c. Before the

GO MEMOIRS OF THI;

door is a small garden, — behind the house, a beauti
ful walk in a grove, — and beyond that, upon the top
of the mountain, a large wood. Across the valley,
in front of the house, is the side of another mountain,
intersected with roads, inlaid with meadows, and
bespotted with cottages. A little farther down in the
valley is Holmfirth, a small village ; but the neigh
bourhood is very populous. Our chapel is a large
building, capable, I suppose, of holding sixteen hun
dred people. On the Sabbath it is delightful to see
the people streaming down the hills on all sides, and
aiming at the different places of worship." — In this
enviable retirement he cultivated a growing inter
course with God, and diligently applied himself to
his proper pursuits. Among his other engagements,
it was his custom to compose one new sermon every
week, and to read a portion of his Greek Testament
daily. Here also he commenced, and successfully
prosecuted, his study of the Hebrew language.

The frequency with which he was now employed
in pulpit and pastoral duties, served to increase
rather than to diminish his conviction of the weight
of the ministerial office, — a conviction "which," as
Mr. Lord remarks, " gave energy and permanency
to the glowing zeal which characterized his public
labours." To this esteemed friend he writes, April
llth, 1815, "You observe, 'We are engaged in a
most important work.' True, O brother ! Enviable
and yet awful employment ! honourable and yet
li'iirt'ul ! delightful and painful ! How ennobling to be
an <ainl>;is~a(lor for Christ;' and yet how afflictive
to be to some the ' savour of death unto death ! '

KKV. DAVID STOM.K. 61

1 low pleasing to rend the veil which separates hea
ven from earth, and display to obedient believers the
^•reatiie-s of thr '_lory which awaits them beyond the
flood ! Hut how terrible to open the doors of the
bottomless pit, and point out to rebellious sinners the
blackness of the darkness, the intenseness of the tor
ment, the eternity of the misery, which attend them
in the boundless, bottomless, endless lake 'which
burneth with fire and brimstone !' What love, what
humility, what courage, what faithfulness, what pru
dence, what zeal, what patience, what deadness to
thr world, art- necessary for the proper discharge of
our ministerial duties ! O may the God of all grace
supply you and me with these qualifications ! "

About the same time he writes to Mr. Gilpin :
" Procrastination ! Ah ! what a thief is procrasti
nation ! Nothing is so great, nothing so insignifi
cant, but this villain can lay his purloining hands
upon it, and stuff it into his monstrous bag, oblivion !
He steals moments, minutes, hours, days, weeks,
months, years, bodies, souls! From the account
which you give me respecting yourself I derive both
pleasure and pain : — pleasure, that you sometimes
determine to lead a new life ; — pain, that those deter
minations are not carried into practical effect. Jacob
had two sons of vastly different characters. Of one
it was said, ' Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel.'
Of the other, ' Can we find such a one as this is,
a man in whom the Spirit of God is ? Joseph is a
fruitful bough, even a fruitful bough by a well; whose
branches run over the wall.' Which character is more
worthy of imitation? Fickle Reuben, or steadfast
a

fi~ M KM 01 US OF THR

Joseph ? — My dear lad, let me recommend to you the
' one thing needful.' Remember, it is but one thing,
religion ! and it is needful to create constant pleasure,
to secure blooming honours, to obtain durable riches ;
to afford support in the hour of death, and enable
you to triumph in the morning of the resurrection.
Habitually accustom yourself to look at things with
the eyes of a dying man, and an immortal spirit.
"When you come to stand trembling upon the verge
of an unknown eternity, just ready to wing your
way into the world of spirits, how will this world
appear then ? Its brilliancies will fade ; its imposing
glare will be dispelled ; its beauties and enjoyments
will sink into insignificance. Take these views of the
world now, and exemplify their influence in your
daily conduct. Youth is a slippery path. Sensible
objects strike the flippant mind of the inexperienced
youth with force ; — they arrest his attention, and
engage his heart. To the transitory scenes of time
oppose the realities of eternity. Eternity ! incom
prehensible, dreadful, joyful word ! Who can tell
the length of eternity ? We giddy, thoughtless crea
tures have begun an existence which must never end.
Watch unto prayer. Never issue out of your cham
ber into the world, — never retire to rest, without
supplicating the Author of your being for his grace.
Every day read more or less in that book of books,
the Bible. And may the best blessings of ' Him that
dwelt in the bush' attend all your steps ! "

To Mr. Smith he writes, October 17th, of the
same year : "All praise to the Donor of every good
and perfect gift, I continue to enjoy the blessings of

REV. DAV10 STOXKK. Go

health of body and peace of mind; and I aui
endeavouring so to conduct myself that these gifta
may glorify the Giver. We are doing nothing par
ticular in the Circuit at present. We want a fresh
gale of holy heavenly inspiration. 'Come from the
four winds, O breath ; and breathe upon these slain,
that tlu-y may live ! ' — It is four years this day since
I preached my first sermon in Park-lane. How
wonderfully has God conducted me from that time
until now! O let us praise him for the past, and
tru-t him for the future! I hope you and Mr. Fletcher
are going on well with preaching, — declaring the
• --< ntial doctrines of Christianity, with simplicity
and plainness, and with the 'Holy Ghost sent down
from heaven.' I am more and more convinced that
sermons alone cannot convert sinners. This is God's
work. It is He who wounds and heals, who kills
and makes alive."

In the year 1816 he began occasionally to insert
notices of his religious experience and observations
in a book which he kept for the purpose, and which,
for want of a more appropriate term, we style his
Diary, though it by no means contains a daily record
of his views and feelings. "Monday, January 1st,"
he writes, " God has spared me to see the commence
ment of another year. I would begin it with new
resolutions to love him with my whole heart, and to
eerve him with all my strength. Author of my being,
mid Fountain of my blessings, renew my heart!
This evening I received the sacrament, and solemnly
renewed my covenant with (iod. May it l>e ratified
in heaven ! I felt much of the power of God. — Sun-

G 2

04 MEMOIRS OF THE

day, 7th. In preaching this day, I have felt the
consequences of ' quenching the Spirit ' on Thursday.
It has been a heavy, dull day. On hearing of a bad
report falsely raised concerning me, I felt the risings
of pride. Lord, deliver me ! For a wonder, one or
two sinners at Thong are under deep convictions. —
Sunday, 14th. In answer to prayer, this has been a
good day.: — Sunday, February 25th. Preached at
Holmfirth three times. Had a good day. Felt
considerable enlargement of soul in the afternoon,
wnile speaking from, 'Almost thou pcrsuadest me to
be a Christian.'"

Sometimes he introduced into this record an account
of remarkable occurrences, which he had either per
sonally witnessed, or heard from others. A few of
these are found at this period of his history. The
three following, it is presumed, will not be thought
utterly unworthy of notice, as illustrative of his
observant habits, and of the fatal principles which
frequently operate in unenlightened and unrenewed
human nature.

One of them forcibly represents the inattention
with which a person may for years sit under the
ministry of the Gospel. " Friday, January 12th. I
was sent for to see a sick old man who has regularly
attended our chapel. I asked him if he had sinned
against God. He answered that he bad ' sometimes
been conquered by passion, but had always been
very careful about sinning.' I explained the nature
and necessity of repentance and faith. lie replied,
' I have always believed in that, thank God.' Such
is the total ignorance of some who attend our preach-

HKV. DAVID STON'KK.

ing. Lord, help 1110 henceforth to speak more plain
ly !" An important petition. To lower the sacred
dignity of dhine truth by coarse language and
unseemly comparisons, is highly censurable ; but to
state it in the plainest and most intelligible manner,
Ought undoubtedly to be the constant aim of every
Christian Minister. "Discourse," says the most
eminent of the ancient rhetoricians,* " ought always
to he obvious, even to the most careless and negligent
hearer; so that the sense shall strike his mind, as the
liuht of the sun does our eyes, though they are not
directed upwards to it. We must study, not only
that every hearer may understand us, but that it
fhall be impossible for him not to understand us."

The next fact \\ e shall mention affords a distressing
view of the envenomed influence of modern infidelity
on the vicious and untutored mind. "Wednesday,
February ~*th. Heard this day of a Deist, living
near Wooldale, who is ahMieted. Two of his dcistiral
Companions vent to see him, remained with him a
considerable time, and exhorted him to keep up his
spirits. He says 'he will never pray while breath is
in his body.' One o^our people met him at the door,
walking with crutches. 'Now, Daniel,' says he,
'God has laid his afflicting hand upon you.' 'He
comes to no thanks for that,' answered he. ' But He
can afflict yon more.' 'He cannot,' replied he,
savagely, (iod, however, has made him know since
then that he can." It is said of some, that they <hall
'•fret tlieriiM'l\» », and cm>e their king and their God,

* Quintilian, quoted l>y Dr. lUair, in I.tct. X.

0(5 MEMOIRS OF THE

arid look upwards." How awfully is this often veri
fied in the blaspheming infidel ! He anticipates the
rage and despair of his future pain. To the Minister
of Christ he ought to be an object of compassion and
sorrow. His fault lies in his depraved heart rather
than his understanding, and he needs the most earnest
appeals and expostulations of injured truth.

A third instance which Mr. Stoner records ex
emplifies the iwiture and effects of that most pitiful
and debasing malady, the love of money. " Friday,
March 8th. Heard of a man of considerable property,
who lived and died near Honley. When he was
near death, he ordered a bag of gold to be brought,
that he might look at it. He viewed it for some time
with pleasure, and then said, ' Put it under my pillow.'
It was done. Afterwards, when he was dying, and
could scarcely articulate, he faltered, 'Let me lift it
once more.' " — To such wretches the term miner,
which properly signifies miserable, is justly applied.
Money is their god, to which they attach themselves
with all the pertinacity of canine madness. They
cherish it as their all, and part with it only with their
lives. "Avarice,'' says a distinguished Latin hi-t<>-
rian,* "is the inordinate desire of money, which no
wise man covets. As if imbue 1 with noxious drugs,
it effeminates the body and the mind of man. It is
pver boundless and insatiable ; nor is it diminished
cither by plenty or by want." " Nothing," observes
Cicero,f "is such a proof of a narrow and little mind
as the love of riches: nothing is more honourable and

* Sullust, Bell. Catil., cap. 11. f De Officiis, lib. i.

REV. DAVID STONER. 67

noble than to despise money, if you have it not ; and,
it' you have it, to bestow it in acts of beneficence and
liberality." On this subject, even Pagans, unen
lightened as they were with regard to many vital
points of truth and duty, could think with accuracy,
and apeak with energy. The sentiments which they
have uttered reprove multitudes who possess the rich
boon of divine revelation. A far higher authority
than theirs has said, "Charge them that are rich in
this world, that they be not high-ininded, nor trust
in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who
giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do
good, that they be rich fn good works, ready to
distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in
store for themselves a good foundation against the
time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal
life."

Mr. Stoner quitted his delightful retirement at
Holmfirth with unaffected regret. " Tuesday, Au
gust 13th," he writes, "I left Holmfirth Circuit. In
it I have spent two happy years. I have never had
one jarring string of any importance. And what is
still better, God has given me many seals to my
poor ministry. May I find them at his right hand!
It is peculiarly painful to flesh and blood to leave
this kind, affectionate people. How gladly could I
live and die among them! But 'here we have no
continuing city.' Mr. Brownell has been a very
able and affectionate Superintendent, and I feel
very loath to part with him."

The diligence with which he pursued his private
studies, during his residence at Holmfirth, has already

6s* MKMOIHS OF THK

been mentioned. It deserves remark. From his
remaining manuscripts, it is evident that he was, at
this time, indefatigable in his application, and that
he made considerable progress in theological know
ledge, as well as in other useful attainments. His
principles were more fully established ; the style of
his preaching was more exactly formed ; and all his
qualifications became better adapted to those more
extensive scenes of ministerial labour which began to
open before him. Aware that, as he advanced in the
Itinerancy, his official calls and engagements would
multiply; and habitually active in all his mental
endeavours, he seized upon this season of comparative
vacancy to provide a stock of needful information
against future exigencies. To young men who are
commencing the years of their ministerial probation,
his conduct furnishes a valuable precedent. Those
years are inestimable. It is then that permanent
acquisitions are made, and suitable habits contracted.
If such vears oass away in negligence and sloth, — if,
from a mistaken notion that subsequent effort will
«« pply the deficiencies of present inattention, they
jire employed in anything rather than the proper
studies and exercises of the ministry, — the issue nin-t
be barrenness, disappointment, and remorse. The
flexibility of youth soon ceases ; times of unbroken
leisure depart as the "shadow of a cloud;" and the
ill-qualified teacher of heavenly truth, bafHed in liis
unwarrantable expectations, reaps the vanity which
he has so indiscreetly sown.

REV. DAVID STOW Ell. 09

CHAPTER V.

He is stationed at Huddersfield— Extracts from Ms
diary — Hit views of entire sanctif cation, which he
earnestly desires — Still assiduous in his attention to
pulpit duty — Part of a letter to Mr. Gilpin— Other
extracts from his diary— Record of his diligence in
reading and study — He is admitted into full connexion
with the Methodist Conference — His marriage — More
extracts from his diary — Remarks on his ministerial
success and his religious experience during the period
he spent at Huddersfield.

THE talents and zeal of Mr. Stoner did not, escape
the attention of the Circuits adjoining to that in
which he had recently laboured; and, on his quitting
Ilolnih'rth, he was gratefully received at Huddersfk'Id,
to which place he was appointed in the year 1816.
Here he remained three years. His colleagues were,
first, the Krv. (ieor^e Sargent, whose lamented
death, by the overturning of a coach, occurred, in
the >ame neighbourhood, a few years afterwards,*
and the Rev. James Sykes ; and, then, the Rev.
Thoin;i- Cooper and the Rev. John Hanwell ; with
the last of whom he subsequently maintained u tree
and friendly correspondence.

* A short but very interesting memoir of Mr. Sargent is
inserted in the Wesleyan-Methodist Magazine for February,
1824.

70 MEMOIRS OF THE

During his residence at Huddersfield, he attended
more frequently than before to his diary, in which
he inserted larger notices of his religious experience.
From these we shall furnish extracts. They will
sufficiently attest the care and vigilance which he
employed in the duty of self-examination ; the grow
ing desires which he cherished for the full attainment
of Christian purity ; the fidelity which he preserved
in the performance of his ministerial functions; and
the severity with which he passed sentence on his
own deficiencies. This was undoubtedly, in many
instances, excessive ; but its very excess proves how
solicitous he was in all things to approve himself
unto God.

" August 24th, 1816. I this day enter on my new
Circuit with much ' fear and trembling.' What shall
I do ! I feel very uncomfortable ; and yet I derive
some support from a promise which I received two
or three weeks since, while praying at Thong, ' My
] IK-SI 'iice shall go with thee, and I will give thee
rest.'

"Tuesday, October 8th. 1 have now been six
weeks in the Circuit. I had not heard of any awaken
ings, and was beginning to fear that God had ' for
gotten to be gracious.' But, praise to his name ! I
learned on Sunday at Linthwaite, that a woman was
convinced of sin the first day I was in the Circuit ;
and to-day I was informed of a backslider's bring
awakened at Honley. To God be nil the glory ! — I
am much troubled with fickleness of mind. Lord,
help and save me !

" Thursday, November 14th. I fi-el cold, and Ian-

HEV. DAVID 8TONEH. 71

puid, and indifferent. I yesterday proved a rebel,
and yet I have not that humiliation and contrition
which I desire. Lord, subdue my proud heart!

" Monday, December 2d. I yesterday had a good
day. I have felt some quickening influences a few
days past. I want a clean heart. What pride and
self do I find lurking in my best actions ! ' Create
in int> a clean heart, O God ; and renew a right spirit
within me ! '

•• Y\ edne-d;iy, 4th. This evening I solemnly re-
• 1 my covenant with God. I gave him my body,
my soul, and my all. I felt a softening of heart, but
did not receive any particular token that God had
accepted the offering. Elijah presented the sacri
fice ; he then prayed ; and then followed the accept
ance, and the token of the acceptance, — the fire from
heaven. This is what I want. I feel the need of a
clean heart. Pride and envy I can discover in my
self continually. I believe God is able and willing
to deliver me. And I am determined to seek the
blessing with my whole heart. But, at the same
time, I think pride is in my motive. ' Do what I
will, it haunts me still.' It is the fly in. the pot of
ointment. Lord, save me !

"Tuesday, 17th. I still am seeking after the
great blessing, though sometimes disheartened, and
sometimes tempted to relapse into my former statf
of indifference. Yet I am determined to pursue. I
want more spiritual-mindedness. I want continually
to see and feel the presence of God. I can often
spend many minutes, yea, not unfrequently, an hour,
and never advert to God. I want a habit of living

72 MKMOlKs OF THE

by faith. I have been examining myself, and re
viewing my past life. Besides those mercies which
are common to many of uiy fellow-creatures, I have
had ' some particular personal blrv-in_-, \\hich ought
to excite special thankfulness.' 1. I was born, in an
enlightened age and Gospel land, of pious Methodist
parents, from whom I received many instructions,
reproofs, and corrections in my early days. '2. I had
the opportunity of sitting under an able and power
ful ministry. 3. I enjoyed the early influences of
saving grace. 4. I was sent to Mr. Bridge's at
Rochdale, where I was enabled to make some ad
vancement in learning. 6. Aa soon as I left school,
I had an opening at Leeds, into a religious and suit
able family. 6. Though often lukewarm and care
less, yet I never ceased meeting in class. 7. Early,
loud, long, and at last obeyed, calls to preach. 8. As
soon as I was free from my engagement with Mr.
Sigston, I was taken into the Leeds Circuit. 9. I
enjoyed the blessing of God on my unworthy labours
in the Holmfirth Circuit, so that many were
awakened. — And yet there are many evils under
which I have daily to groan. 1. Excessive natural
timidity, bashfulness, or false modesty, so that I am
sometimes ready to prefer strangling to the perform
ance of some duties, which to many are no trouble
at all. 2. The little success I have had in my pre
sent ministerial labours. I have heard of only two
awakenings since I came into this Circuit. 3. I have
complaints from the people that I do not visit them
sufficiently. 4. Instability of character, — too much
of Reuben. 5. A wicked, worldly, proud, peevish,

KKV. DAVID STONEI!. 79

impatient. M-lti-h heart. (1. Non-improvement of
much precious time. Lord, help me !

"January 1st, 1817. hast night I preached at
the watch-night nt Barwick, I praise God for all
the blessings of the past year, and desire to begin a
new year with ;i nt-ir heart."

To the entire renewal of his soul in "righteous
ness and true holiness" his attention was now par
ticularly directed. It was a source of much concern
to him, that, in the parts where he had lately
laboured, this inestimable blessing seemed too gene
rally disregarded. To quicken himself in the pursuit
of it, and to recommend it to others, he about this
time composed and preached a sermon on Christian
tion ; an outline of which has been found among
his papers. The mateiials are professedly taken in
a great degree from the writings of Mr. Wesley ; but
the whole is evidently studied with much cure. The
explanatory part is distinct and satisfactory, and the
arguments by which the doctrine is enforced are
powerful and convincing.

Of this momentous subject he often speaks in his
subsequent correspondence. The two following ex
tracts may not improperly be introduced here, as
containing his mature an<l settled judgment. The
first is taken from a letter addressed to Mr. Joseph
Jennings, in the year 18-23. " You ask various ques
tions concerning sanctitication. By ' sanctification '
I suppose you mean what Mr. Wesley terms 'entire
sanctification.' Sanctification begins in justification ;
— entire sanctification is Christian perfection. You
a«k, 1 . ' Does it cause as great n change in the mind

74 MKMOIRS OF TIIK

as justification does in the conduct?' If I right!}
understand what you mean by this question, I would
say, No. Justification, which is always accompanied
by regeneration, is a change from nature to grace ;
entire sanctification is rising from a lower to a higher
degree of grace. The former is a transition from
darkness to light ; the latter is rising into clearer
light. 2. ' After the reception of perfect love, is
there a constant evenness of mind ; or is the soul
liable to doubtfulness, oppression, and sorrow ? ' Cer
tainly the soul is capable of sorrow. Look at Jesus :
he was angry, he was grieved, he wept, &c. Yet it
is a sorrow compatible with unceasing joy. ' As sor
rowful, yet always rejoicing,' says the Apostle. And
the soul may also be liable to doubtfulness, though
perhaps the source of that doubtfulness is in the
individual himself. Entire sanctification may be
wholly lost ; and if so, it may be partially lost. The
believer may hold it with a trembling hand. There
are many stages between no faith and full assurance.

3. 'Is not our own will the greatest of all ob~

to the renewing of the soul in righteousness?' Un
doubtedly : —

' The hind'rance must be ail in me ;
It cannot in my Saviour be ;

Witness that streaming blood ! '

4. ' Does the enjoyment of entire sanctification en
able us to pray, believe, and rejoice every moment,
even in the presence of the greatest trials?' Doubt
less, so far as it is naturally, or perhaps I should s-ty
phygirally, possible. 5. ' Does it enable us to seek

RRV. DAVID STONER. 75

only the glory of God, and are our wills lost at all
times in his will ?' Certainly, so long as perfect love
fills and rules the heart. Do not set the mark too
hitrh. It is nothing but love. It is a very simple
thing. Plead for it. Wrestle, agonize for it. Be-
Here for it. Believe just now. If it is to be had by
fitith, it is to be had just n/»r." The second extract
is from a letter written in the year 1826, to a friend
who had lost the evidence of his sanctification, and
who anxiously inquired by what means he might
recover it. It will not be forgotten that Mr. Stoner
i- ^.raking of sanctification as it consists of loving
Cod with the whole heart. Advancement in Chris
tian knowledge and Christian practice is, in the nature
of things, progressive and indefinite. A person too
who at present loves God with all his soul, is capable
of a continual enlargement of his powers, and, con
sequently, of a continual increase of love. Through
cr.mi'y itself the happy saint, who rejoices in
brighter effusions of light issuing t'r.wi its eternal
and inexhaustible source, and employs himself in
stronger ascriptions of praise to the adorable Trinity,
will doubtless experience also a perpetual and incon
ceivable augmentation of his love. "You ask,
' W 'hat must I Ho ? I have lost the blessing of sanc-
tification.' I answer, ' Believe in the Lord Jesus
Christ, and thou shalt be saved.' It appears to me,
1. That you have a conscience not only tender, but
fi'nijmlims. excessively sore ; and, 2. That you rob
yourself by rfasmitng, instead of living by faith. As
to the instance you mention, by which you lost the
blessing, I question, 1. Whether you did not con-
ii 2

76 MEMOIRS OF THE

demn yourself where God did not condemn ; and,
2. If it should be true, that you were guilty of un
faithfulness, you should have immediately humbled
yourself, applied by faith to the blood of sprinkling,
and prayed for grace to be more faithful in future.
You ask, ' Did you ever feel in the same manner ? '
I answer, Yes ; many a time. You ask, ' How must
I proceed? Must I fast much?' I answer, No.
Your body is the 'temple of the Holy Ghost;' and
it is at your peril if you undermine the foundation,
or injure the walls, of that temple. Fast and abstain
you may and should ; but not in any degree so as to
injure your body, but govern it ; ' for no man ever
yet hated his own flesh, but nourisheth and cherislu th
it.' In order to obtain the blessing again, the com
mand is not, Pray much, fast much, weep much;
but, Believe: ' only believe ; all things are possible
to him that believeth.' Now, in this instant, while
this paper is in your hand, hear the Saviour's voice,
' I will, be thou clean.' Believe it, venture, dare,
try to believe, and the work is done. Remember,
the Saviour is infinitely desirous to save you to the
uttermost justnow. Then what shall hir;drr .' 'Lord,
here I am. I give up all. I am fully thine. Thou
art my Saviour. I will, I do believe ! ' Hallelujah !
Bless the Lord ! It is the devil who tells you, you
ought not to preach till you have received the bless
ing again. He would be glad enough to shut your
mouth. Preach on, and preach that bl.-Miii; 'till
you get it, and then you will preach it because you
have it.' You say, 'This is the second time I have
lost it.' And what then? If i.t were the thousandth

RKV. DAVID STONEK. 77

time, still the command i«, Reliri'e. You ask, ' Must
I tell others that I have lost it?' I would say, gene
rally, tliis would be very improper. It would weaken
the t'efhle-minded, and stagger those who are seek
ing. You know we are to preach not our own
experience, but 'the whole counsel of God.' If you
have an intimate friend or two, you might tell them:
t:i>-y would help you by their prayers, &c. Do not
write bitter things against yourself. Begin from
thi- hour, and spend all that time in praising that
you have been wont to spend in complaining, and I
iim sure your soul will rise." From this letter the
person to whom it was sent gratefully acknowledged
that he derived much instruction and encouragement.
Mr. Stoner's ardent desires after the full renova
tion of his nature, rendered him still more assiduous
in the discharge of his public duties, and in the
acquisition of every profitable attainment. In a
letter to Mr. Smith, dated January 17th, 1817, in
which he particularly adverts to the subject of Chris
tian holiness, he mentions also the satisfaction he had
received from a perusal of Dr. Cotton Mather's
" Student and Preacher." The following sentences
he transcribes: — " Entertain the people of God with
none but well-studied sermons ; employ none but
well-beaten oil for the lamps of the golden candle
stick. — This I insist upon, that, when you are to
preach, you should go directly from your knees in
your study to the pulpit." These directions were
conscientiously followed by Mr. Stoner. In him
diligence of preparation, and prayerful reliance on
divine aid, seemed equally united.
H 3

7H MKMOIKS OF TIIK

Under the same date, he writes to Mr. Gilpin •
<( A little time ago we wrote 1816, but now it i- 1M7.
This indicates that time is flying, that eternity is
approaching, and that we have entered upon a new
portion, a new division, of our existence. Aiming
the many practical uses which arise out of this dUtri-
bution of our time, this is one, and not one of the last
or least, that it affords us an opportunity, and loudly
calls upon us, to settle our accounts, to close our
books, to examine into our circumstances, and ascer-
>;iin whether we are gaining or losing. This is the
ronduct of the tradesman ; and this should be the
conduct of the moralist, the philosopher, the scholar,
and the Christian. This I have been endeavouring
to do. — You give me the pleasing information in your
fast that you have begun to meet in class. I am
exceedingly glad to hear it. Meeting in class has
been much declaimed against ; but it is a practice so
clearly established by Scripture precepts, and Scrip
ture precijdents, — in principle at least, if not inform,
— a practice pregnant with so many advan:
productive of such blessed results, and enforced In so
many powerful motives, that no man, who wishes to
glorify his Maker, and SHVO hi:- «\vn M>ul, can justly
incur censure by uniting himself in this way with the
people of God. If you wish to enjoy the full influence
of religion, if you wish to persevere to the end.
regularly attend your class. Whether you be cold or
hot, languid or alive, go ! Let nothing prevent you
from attending that ordinance of grace, and you will
find it useful. In the temperament of your mind I
think T remember three conspicuous features, antbi-

lirv. DAVID STOKER. /!>

ti«n,fire, and Irriti/. Your ambit ion ».w\ fire restrain
in a due d«"_rr- c, direct them to proper objects, pet
them sanctified by divine grace; and then you will
find them of \\omierfnl use in currying you through
life. Let the object of your ambition be, to become
one of the wi»< ~t, the be-t, the holiest, the most useful
of your species ; and let the fire of your constitution
prompt you to employ every means to conquer every
enemy, to surmount e\ cry obstacle, in the attainment
of your object. — But bevvure of levity ! It will be ' a
wonn i' th' bud.' Let not Satan deceive you by call
ing it Christian cheerfulness. Levity is not cheerful
ness, though perhaps in their utmost boundaries they
may appear to meet. — Above all, pray, pray, pray.
Do not suffer yourself to be satisfied with cold, short,
infrequent prayers. As you pray, so will your soul
prosper or decline. As you pray, so will you live."

From his diary it appears that he still kept the
important object of holiness in view, but that he had
mauy fluctuations in his religious experience. "Fe
bruary 13th," he writes, " I am still aiming at the
great blessing, a clean heart; but O! how sluggish
I am ! " This seems to have been his general feeling
and complaint. It will be proper, however, to in- it
his own language more at large.

"Tuesday, July 8th. When I consider that I i.m
a Methodist, a professor of religion, nay. a Mini-;, r
of Christ; and when I look at my pa>t .-onduct and
experience,— 'shame ought to burn my cheek to
cinder.' I have been living for a considerable time
nt a poor, cold, dead rate. But, I thank God, I feel
revived once more. I had a pretty good day on

SO MEMOIRS OK TIIK

Sunday. Yesterday evening I had a season like one
of those times of old when the ' candle of the Lord
shone upon my head !' I feel at present a nearness
to God, and I hope I shall not rest till I obtain the
' fulness of God.' O my God, I can appeal with
sincerity to thee. ' I would be thine, thou know'st
I would.' Come, and fill me with thyself!

"Monday, 14th. It was suggested to me last week
that my present fit of earnestness would soon be over,
like all that had gone before. But, I thank God, it
is not over yet. But O ! what a hard heart I have !
God has in part answered my prayers, and given me
to see a small degree of my spiritual corruption. My
soul is full of vain, proud, selfish thoughts, envious
thoughts, wandering thoughts, wicked thoughts.
Pride enters into and spoils every duty, every action.
Lord, save me !

"September 9th. The time which has elapsed
since I entered anything into this journal, proves
that all has not been right. I lost ground at the
Conference, by not having time and opportunity for
the regular performance of private duties, and, in
consequence, falling into idle conversation. I had,
notwithstanding, a pretty good time in preaching at
the Conference, and several profitable seasons in
preaching in my native place and its vicinity. But
since I returned to this town, my soul has boon in a
wretched condition. I know not what to do. I know
I cannot deliver myself. None but God can do it.
This deliverance can be obtained only by the earnest
prayer of faith. And yet I cannot pray. Such is my
state of listlessness. Lord, have mercy upon me!

UEV. 1>AVII) M'nM.K. 81

27th, 1818. Irresolution N my
How exactly do I resemble Reuben, — ' unstable as
•water! ' Confident I am I cannot 'excel.' I do not
excel in knowledge; darkness rests upon my min 1 :
— in holiness ; I am a sinner : — in usefulness ; I am
K HKI-- of corruption, exhaling pestilential steams: —
in evcrythiii;/ I n:n 'si* a hen<t' before God. But I
must not lie where I am. Up, and be doing!

'• Monday, April (5th. I have now been in the
world twenty-four years. God has given me, during
this period, health, food, raiment, habitation, the
comforts of life, kind friend?, his word, his Spirit,
every blessing, every opportunity, every favour.
But O ! what returns ! What ingratitude ! What
lukewarmness ! What coldness ! Lord, humble my
proud henrt ! — I am the foulest of the foul, the vilest
of the vile, the 'chief of sinners.' But, — there i- a
Mediator. O that I could come to him ! I cannot
feel. I cannot pray. I cannot mourn. Lord, break
this rocky heart! — I have made in days past t> n
thousand vows, and formed ten thousand resolutions ;
and as often have they been broken. But I inu- 1
coine again. I want toghe God my heart; but 1
feel as if I could not do it. So listless ! so cold !
Even while I am now engaged in this solemn duty,
my In-art is wandering to the ends of the earth !
Lord, have mercy upon me! — I think I am willing,
by the grace of God, to give up every idol; to
surrender everything into the hands of my Redeemer.
Lord God Almighty ! if tin-re i-1 anything within me
which I do not see, and which prevents me from
ri-in- into liberty, -how me the idol! Help mo to

82 MEMOIRS OF THE

hate, help me to surrender it ; and help me now ! —
But yet there is no feeling ! Alas ! what is know
ledge without feeling ! What is light without warmth !
Come, O Jesus, and melt my hardness into love ! "

On the 8th of April, the same year, the foundation
of the present large and elegant chapel at Hudders-
field was laid. Mr. Stoner mentions the circumstance,
and devoutly prays "that God would bless the
intended erection, and render it conducive to the
salvation and happiness of thousands."

" Tuesday, 28th," he proceeds, " Blessed be God
that yesterday I felt the Holy Spirit softening and
drawing my heart. How often has biography proved
a peculiar blessing to my soul ! When I read the
Lives of Baxter, Fletcher, Wesley, Alleine, Pearce,
Lomas, Spencer, &c., I am melted, I am ashamed,
I am humbled, I am all on fire ! But O ! this
instability ! this want of firmness in exercising self-
denial ! I am determined, however, through the
grace of God, to try again.

" Saturday, June 20th. On reading over my
past diary, I find it is full of mourning and com
plaints. And I am still in the same case. O ! what
unfaithfulness, depravity, and sinfulness! Blind in
my understanding! stubborn in my will! depraved
in my affections ! guilty in my conscience ! con
demned by my own judgment! shut up in my
insensibility ! — what must I do ? ' Lord, I am
oppressed ; undertake for me.' I feel a determina
tion to try once more. O for power !'•"

At the Conference of 1815, it was appointed that
the Chairmen of Districts should, at each District-

Iir.V. DAVID STONKll. 83

Meeting, examine every Preacher on trial respect
ing the course of theological milling which he had
pursued during tlie preceding j-ear ; for which pur-
every such Preacher was required to deliver to
the ( Mmirman of his District a list of the books which
he had read since the preceding District-Meeting.
lists were to be laid before the Meeting, that
the senior brethren might have an opportunity of
giving to the junior Preachers such advices and
directions respecting their studies as might appear
to he necessary. To this regulation Mr. Stoner con
scientiously attended.* It appears that, one year,
he presented a list of forty-one volumes, besides
i'i,fJity-one on various subjects which he did not
insert in his list. Another year he presented a list

* The following is the list which he presented in 1817 : —
Wesley's Works, 16 vols.
Burnet on the Articles.
Homilies of the Church of England.
Newton on the Prophecies, 2 vols.
Neil's History of the Puritans, 2 vols.
Simpson's Plea for the Deity of Jesus.
Mather's Student and Preacher.
Border's Oriental Customs, 2 rols.
Magee on Atonement and Sacrifice, 2 vols.
Watts's Works, 6 vols.
Collyer's Lectures on Miracles.
Ditto on Prophecies.
Dick on the Inspiration of Scripture.
Paley's Natural Theology, 2 vols.
Chalmers's Astronomical Discourses.
Ryan's History of the Effects of Religion on Mankind.

84 M r.VOTUS OF THE

of Ihirty-six, exclusive of fifty-seven other*. The
lists which he prepared consisted generally of well-
chosen theological works, and some of them large
ones. This sufficiently proves his diligence, especi
ally when it is remembered that he read with great
attention, and that he was at the same time busily
engaged with his compositions for the pulpit. It is
remarkable that he has not mentioned any of the
" advices and directions respecting his studies,"
which the senior Preachers gave him during the
successive years of his probation ; but there can be
no doubt that whatever he might receive of this
kind, he would carefully observe.

The period had now arrived when, according to
the usages of the Wesleyan Connexion, he was to be
publicly admitted into full ministerial union with
that body. " The time is approaching," he remarks
in his diary, of April 28th, " when I must be ad
mitted into full connexion. And it becomes me, as
an honest man, a Christian, and a Minister, to give
the subject the most deliberate consideration. O !
lot thy light shine!"— He passed through the dif
ferent examinations with much credit to himself;
" witnessed a good confession," in the public con
gregation, at Leeds, " before many witnesses ;" and
took his place in the Itinerancy with the cordial
and unanimous approbation of his assembled bre
thren.

Immediately after Conference he entered into the
marriage state with Miss Hannah Robert*, who has
nlrendy been named as the first seal to his ministry
nt Holmfirth. The reasons for which he entered

REV. DAVID STUN I. R. b">

into this state, in addition to its being God's ordi
nance, \vcro, as he remarks in his diary, " 1. That
he ini^ht have a help to 'growth in grace.' 2. That
he might have a stimulus to study and diligence.
3. That lie might have u<-i-t!ince against his natural
timidity. 4. That he might have a counsellor and
romforter in all his concerns. 5. That he might
have an intimate friend to point out to him his
faults, &c." In these things he was not disap
pointed. Mrs. Stoner proved a help meet for him ;
and during the few years that their union was per
mitted to continue, it seems to have been eminently
happy.

" Monday, November 23d, 1818. I feel once
again the drawings and quickenings of the Holy
Spirit. Yesterday was a pretty good day. In the
evening I had an opportunity of recommending
religion to a gentleman who has just lost his pious
partner, but was overcome by my natural timidity.
Lord, forgive nie, nnd grant me more courage !

" Tuesday, 24th. Glory be to my God, he is still
drawing me to himself. In preaching last night,
the fear of man made me tremble, a Dissenting
Minister being present. My heart beat violently
in repeating the Lord's prayer; but God helped me
through, and with some degree of enlargement of
heart. But what unfaithfulness ! I think far more
about getting through my work, than about being
useful to the people. In the hand-meeting I felt
wanderings of mind. To-day I had a call to visit
two sick people ; but find a shameful reluctance to
such duties.

80 MKMOIllS OF TUTC

" Thursday, 26th. Through want of private de
votion, I felt my soul dead this morning ; but God
has again visited me. While writing on the con
versation of Moses and Elijah with Christ, my heart
was wanned ! O may I

' Of nothing think or speak beside,
My Lord, my Love, is crucified !'

"June 12th, 1819. In the former part of this
week my mind was revived. While meeting a class
* was softened, and tears of contrition and of gra
titude plentifully flowed. My God, now take full
possession of my heart !

" Friday, 25th. Praised be the name of my
God, that he still spares me. I am a sinner, but
Christ has died for me ! and here is my only con
fidence. My mind is much depressed and exercised.
I feel a suggestion which would prompt me to leave
the work of the ministry; for reasons something like
the following : — 1. My preaching seems to be nearly
useless. It is very rarely that I have heard of any
convictions or conversions of late. 2. Such is my
excessive and hitherto unconquerable timidity and
bashfulness, that I cannot fulfil the necessary duties
of my office. 3. My increasing weakness of con
stitution. But I dare not desist. I had a call from
God, I am convinced ; and if that call is not now so
clear, it is perhaps through my unfaithfulness. The
first reason above-mentioned arises from my want
of piety ; the second, from ray want of self-denial ;
and the third, partly from my injudicious method of
speaking. I yet feel resolved to «.'ive myself to God

RKV. DAVID STOXKU. 87

lie U drawing me in some degree after himself.
May he save me to the uttermost !

" Wednesday, 30th. My Lord, help me to attend
continually to first principles. ' As ye have received
Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him.' I endea
vour to preach the Methodist doctrines as Mr. Wesley
preached them, and to observe all the parts of our
discipline. But I want more love. Come, Lord!"

From the account which Mr. Stoner has occasion
ally given of his want of ministerial success in the
Iluddersfield Circuit, it might be concluded that his
'• labour," while there, was comparatively "in vain."
Such a conclusion, however, would be manifestly
incorrect. It ought to be considered that his solici
tude for souls was incessant and extreme ; that he
could satisfy himself with nothing but visible and
striking manifestations of divine power; and that,
when he adverted to this subject in his diary, he
generally struggled with a painful degree of mental
depression. Besides, according to the wise appoint-
in. nt of Almighty God, it often happens that success,
where it really exists, is mercifully concealed from
those who have been chiefly instrumental in pro
moting it. " The bread cast upon the waters," how
ever, is not lost, though it may not appear until
" after many days." Facts incontestably prove, that,
in conjunction with his excellent colleagues, Mr.
Stoner enj..yed a gratifying degree of official pros-
p-rity in Hudderstield and the neighbouring villages.
During the three years that he spent there, four
hundred ami ten members were added to the socie-
ti. I. The increasing congregations at Huddorsfield
I 2

t>3 MKMU1US OF THR

called also for the erection of the new chapel, (the
largest Methodist place of worship either in Great
Britain or America, with the exception, perhaps, of
the Brunswick chapel at Leeds,) by which an oppor
tunity was afforded of more widely extending th«
influence of religious instruction. From many of the
friends he received encouraging proofs of affectionate
attention, of which he was gratefully sensible. He
particularly mentions the kindness of John Dyson,
Esq., of Newhouse, with whom he resided a con
siderable time.

His religious experience, during a part of this
period, will be thought often gloomy, and occasion
ally desponding. Fully convinced, as he now was,
of the necessity of a larger communication of sanc
tifying grace, it is not extraordinary that he became
more keenly and painfully alive to the remaining
corruptions of his nature. Like the exemplary
Brainerd also, whom he resembled in many far more
desirable qualities, there can be little doubt that he
had, in his constitutional temperament, a strong
tendency to melancholy and dejection. To hear him
complain of fickleness, indolence, and want of zeal,
may appear remarkable even to his most intimate
friends, who know that he was almost proverbial for
the opposite properties. By those disclosures of the
secret exercises of his heart, it will be discovered
how those opposite properties were attained. He
saw his failings; he guarded against them with a--i-
duity and vigilance ; and he sought those succours
from above by which he so entirely overcame them.
This is tin' course which others must pursue, who

REV. DAVID STOKER. 89

would imitato his example, anil obtain similar tri
umphs. In the pursuit of Christian virtue, too much
has sometimes been attributed to the ductility of
narure ; too little to the persevering efforts of spi
ritual discipline, accompanied by the indispensable
supplies of divine grace. " None are supinely good."
Prayer, watchfulness, self-denial, faith, and perse
verance are requisite ; and to these, exercised in the
strength of God, are promised the sublime victories
and " undefiled rewards" of heavenly wisdom.

I H

M1.M01KS UK THK

CHAPTER VI.

Extraordinary success of Mr. Stoner's ministry in the
Bradford Circuit, to which he is next appointed — The
ipirit in which he entered upon his neir station — Rer.
Isaac Turton's testimony to his zeal and usefulness —
Extracts from his diary — He publishes a sermon on
occasion nf the death of His Majesty, (ienrge III — Part
of a letter to the Rev. John Hanwell — Other extracts
from his diary and correspondence, particularly ilhm-
tratice of Ait earnest pursuit of < hristian hutinens —
Remarks on his progress in the attainment of it —
Fai'thd' extracts jroin hi* diary and correspondence —
Observations on his general habits while at Bradford,
and, especially, on his entire conviction of the necessity
of divine influence to any degree of ministerial success.

CHRISTIAN Ministers, who, during the progress
of life, discharge the duties of their function in
different situations, are sometimes favoured in cer
tain places willi peculiar and memorable success.
To such places their talents and habits are, perhaps,
particularly adapted. :ind in them they are honoured
liv the great Lord of all with larger and more abun
dant effusions of \\\+ hallowing influence. That illus
trious pattern of ministerial zeul and fidelity, St.
Paul, seems never to have been entirely unsucce>-ful.
He could say, " Thanks be unto God, which alirays
ciniseth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manil* -l
the savour of his knowledge by us in every pi

H! V. DAVID STONKR. 01

Yet there were scenes in which even his sticrr--
more striking and okwnrable: at Antioch, for ex
ample, at Philippi, at Thessalonioa, at Ephesus ;
- which he ever remembered with feeling <>f
;'ul and affectionate delight. Ordinary teachers
of divine truth still experience similar vi-itati.m<. On
r»>vie\\ in;.' the course of their public labours, they c;in
dwell with singular pleasure on bright and Hourisli-
iiiif periods of their own history ; can recall to mind
seasons in which they were more than usually instru
mental in extending the triumphs of truth, and
iii'Tcy ; and can look forward to that consummation
of all things, when they shall be permitted to pre
sent many, gathered from the more prosperous
scenes of their earthly toil, who shall be their "joy,
and crown of rejoicing," in the day of the Lord
'

To such a station of special and extensive success
Mr. Sr<miT w;is providentially directed, when, in the
year 1819, he received an appointment to the Brad
ford Circuit. II bfl continued three years.
He enjoyed the privilege of having for his Superin
tendents, for the first year, the Rev. Isaac Turton,
and, for the remaining two, the Rev. Joseph En-
twisle. This w ;\s undoubtedly the best portion of hL*
u*eful lift-. In connexion with his excellent col-
s, he laboured assiduously in every part of his
work, — witnessed an uncommon manifestation of
divine grace, — and, at the close of his term, in addi
tion to other evidences of prosperity, could rejoice
over a clear increase to the different societies of
more than one thmnnml amis. His Superintendent*

1)2 MEMOIRS OF THE

unite in testifying that he was eminently si
ful in the awakening and conversion of sinners.
Nor was he merely beneficial to others. During
this period, as will sufficiently appear from his
diary, he made great personal progress in Christian
attainments.

He entered upon the work of his new Circuit in
an exemplary spirit. " Bradford, August 27th," he
writes in his diary, " Yesterday we came to thij
place, not only by God's permission, but I trust alsc
by his special appointment. I trust that the fingei
of God pointed to Bradford, and that he will afford
his presence and blessing. On my entering into this
new Circuit, I would dedicate myself afresh to God,
and engage in a new course. Come, my Lord, and
take full possession ! — I am resolved, divino auxilio,
1. That I will rise earlier. 2. That I will spend
two hours daily in searching the Scriptures, self-
examination, meditation, prayer, keeping diary, fce.
3. That in those hours I will read a chapter of He
brew and Greek alternately, every day. 4. That I
will rend to my wife a chapter of Dr. Clarke daily,
and of Mr. Wesley's Works at least a little every day.
' Nulla dies sine linea.' 5. That I will read the Bible
regularly according to Holroyd,* part of it on my
knees before God. 6. I will, I must spend more
time in visiting the sick and poor. 7. I must make
or re-make a sermon every week, if possib'e ; at least
every fortnight. 8. I will continue to dedicate one-

* See " Tables for reading the Scriptures in one Year," by
the Rev. 3. B. Holroyd.

RET. DAVID STOM:K. !):?

tenth of my income to God. 9. I will fast as often
as I find it prudent. 10. I must do something by
\rayofinstructingtherisinggeneration. 11. I must,
I must be more spiritually-minded, especially in com
pany. But I know that all these resolutions will be
made ii> vuiii, except God create my heart anew. I
have been striving to give myself to God. But I
want some token for good, — some proof that I am
the Lord's, and his messenger." The above resolu
tions clearly display the state of his mind in reference
to himself and his work. He sometimes complains
that he has not been able to observe them, and pro
nounces sentence upon himself with his usual seve
rity : but die very formation of them proves how
ardrntly he desired to " work out his own salvation/'
and to "make full proof of his ministry."

Of his general deportment and activity during
the first year lie spent at Bradford, Mr. Turton has
fovoured the writer-- with the following account: —
" When we first met, I thought him very shy and
reserved, and had my tloubtl whether I should have
a comfortable year with him as a colleague. But in
a short time he became more free and communica
tive ; and during the time we were together, we spent
many a pleasant and profitable hour in conversatl n
and prayer with each other. — We laboured together
in perfect harmony, and >aw considerable fruitofour
labours. During the winter quarter, we agreed to
hold <i watch-night in nearly every country place in
the Circuit, hoping that thi> would be useful to the
people generally, and more especially to the societies.
.Ard EO it proved ; for in almost every place we after-

94 MEMOIRS OF THE

wards heard that good was done. Our plan was this:
\Ve went together, accompanied by three or four
pious, lively, and" zealous Prayer-Leaders, and Local
Preachers ; and after a *hort sermon delivered in as
pointed, powerful, and pithy a manner as possible,
the brethren who went with us prayed, particularly
for the people present, and the inhabitants of the
place. We generally had a much larger company
than on ordinary occasions, and considerable interest
was excited among the people. I commonly pre
vailed on Mr. Stoner to preach ; and his ' word' was
indeed 'with power,' producing an immediate and
visible effect, especially on strangers who had been
induced to attend because a watch-night was to be
held." — Other valuable communications from Mr.
Turton and Mr. Entwisle will be more properly
reserved for the last chapter in this work, which
contains a description of Mr. Stoner's character.

" Thursday, September 9th," he writes, " Blessed
be God, I have been enabled hitherto to keep most
of my resolutions. But, after all, I often feel lifeless
and indifferent. Lord, quicken me ! I want to be
useful. I cannot be satisfied that my call to Brad
ford is of God, until I hear of some awakenings.
Praise the Lord, I met the other day with a man
who was awakened under an occasional sermon that
I preached here a year or two ago. ' O Lord, revive
thy work ! '

" Thursday, November 25th. Glory be to God
for the continuance of his infinite mercy to my body
and soul. When I consider my own sinfulness and
the divine purity and majesty, I wonder that God

REV. DAVID STONKH. 95

span's me ; and yet my heart is so hard and unfeel
ing, that I am almost unaffected by it. I have partly
attended to some of my resolutions, made when I
came to this Circuit; but I am wofully deficient.
My heart is full of pride, and self-will, and every
evil. I waste much precious time in bed, in idle
conversation, in unprofitable reading, &c. I do not
visit the sick and poor as I ought to do. I do not
preach for souls. My heart is ice, when it ought to
bejlame. ' Lord, undertake for me ! ' Nothing affects
my heart so much as pious biography. I read this
morning, ' Memoirs of Mrs. Cooper.' How was I
melted and ashamed ! Nothing but the omnipotent
grace of God can raise me out of this quagmire, into
which I am sunk. This grace is to be obtained only
by prayer ; yet when I attempt to pray, I feel such
indifference, such wanderings, such listlessness ! But
' I will arise, and go to my Father.'

" Saturday evening, December 4th. The impres
sions made on my mind by reading the Memoir last
week are not effaced. Blessed be God, I feel the
savour of them still. I had a struggle to conquer
one of my besetments ; but I trust I am now the
conqueror. I feel that Christ is mine. But I long
to be cleansed from all sin. I feel at times that
pride almost fills my heart. This evening, in draw
ing nigh to God, I enjoyed enlargement of soul, and
had such a view of my danger and responsibility,
that I was constrained to ask my God, it' he saw I
should dishonour his cause and lose my soul, that
he would noio breathe his nature into my heart, and
take me home. — My constitutional besetment, timi-

0(3 MKMOIKS OP THE

dity, yet conquers me. It keeps me from visiting
the sick and poor, from speaking to all I meet
with on spiritual subjects, from recommending the
Saviour wherever I come, from making myself easy
and accessible to all. I kno\v I am wrong. It is
my daily grief and burden ; and yet I cannot con
quer. Sometimes I am tempted to murmur that
the Almighty has given me such a shrinking spirit,
and yet called me into a public station. Cowper's
description of his timidity is a strong picture of
mine, only a shade or two deeper. But cannot
grace conquer all this ? I do not know. I have
been told that Mr. Bramwell, holy as he was, was
on some occasions excessively timid. Lord, help
me ! "

On the Kith of February, 1820, he preached a
sermon at Bradford on occasion of the death of His
late Majesty George III. ; and was afterwards soli
cited to furnish a copy of it for publication. To this
he reluctantly consented. His text was 1 Chron.
xxix. 28 : " And lie died in a good old age, full of
days, riches, and honour." The sermon is not
without merit, but it by no means affords a correct
specimen of Mr Stoner's pulpit compositions. It
consists chiefly of anecdotes illustrative of the re
vered Monarch's character; but the character seems
subservient to the anecdotes, rather than the anec
dotes to the character ; the reflections discover but
little vigour and expansion of thought ; and the
diction, compared with Mr. Stoner's usual energy
of style, is rnther feeble. The publication appears.
liowrver, to have been useful at the timr, partiou-

RKV. DAVID STONT.R. '.)?

Inrly as unfolding the religious and moral excel
lencies of His late Majesty, and testifying the
unaffected sentiments of loyalty by which the Me
thodist Connexion have always wished to be dis
tinguished.

In a letter to Mr. Ilanwell, despatched on the
20th of March, he incidentally uses the word im
pulses, and adds, "This self-same word impnlxrs
which has just dropped from my pen, brings before
my mind many unpleasant ideas. By impulses, by
fits and starts I mean, I have studied, I have prayed,
I have preached, I have done everything. Had I
been governed by one regular propensity of dili
gence, as you apjienr always to be, I should have
been saved from many evils, which arise from being
propelled so irregularly by ini]>ul-<es. God forgive
me ! Time is rolling away. How soon will life be
gone ; and how careless, and sleepy, and indolent
am I ! Our growth in grace, and our enjoyment
of the consolations of religion, depend, under God,
on our own diligence. 'The diligent soul shall be
made fat.' 'The diligent hand maketh rich.' May
God help me ! In those seasons, when you have
power with God, remember me ;— and you will not
be forgotten in the feeble prayers of your affectionate
friend."

" Saturday, June 3d," he remarks in his diary,
" Three weeks ago God quickened my soul. I felt
the drawings of his Spirit, and was enabled to run
after him. For several days I enjoyed a consider
able degree of communion with him. But, since
th«>n, I hnve attended the District-Meeting, and have

K

98 MEMOIRS OF THE

been several times from home. In consequence of
this, my seasons of devotion have not been so re
gular. This has intercepted my intercourse with
the Saviour, and brought deadness into my soul.
This evening I feel resolved, by God's help, to start
again. I want to be more diligent in redeeming
time, more assiduous in visiting the sick and poor,
more earnest in winning souls to Christ ; and to
enjoy uninterrupted communion with God. I see
more into the advantage and duty of communion
with God. ' My soul, wait thou upon God.' Send
up every moment thy prayers and praises, and
expect, in return, the communications of grace.
This would keep me in peace. This would save me
from many temptations. This would help me over
my besetments. This would make my whole life
n sacrifice. My God, give me this communion with
thyself!

" Wednesday, 7th. The reading of Mr. Bram-
well's Life has been much, very much, blessed to my
soul. I am humbled, quickened, ashamed, and en
couraged. My soul is going out after God. There
is nothing in earth or heaven that I desire so much
as a clean heart. Yesterday I spent a considerable
time in prayer, in wrestling prayer ; but I could not
lay hold. I have been struggling again this morn
ing ; but something keeps me back. My heart feels
hard. Something whispers that I am seeking the
blessing from a wrong motive, even from pride ; that
I want to be holy, only that I may be more zealous
and more useful, and, therefore, more popular. This
surely is from the devil : surely it is impossible to

itr.v. DAVID STONIER. 90

seek after a clean heart from such a motive. I am
fully certain, that if such be my motive, I shall never
ol'tain. But I can appeal to tho Searcher of heart-;,
tlnit, as fur as I know myself, I desire to be swayed
by no other motive than his glory. What then i> it
flint keeps me from the blessing? I think I am will
ing to give all up, to 'sell all, that I may secure this
pearl of great price.' But am I seeking it by the
works of the law? I hope not. I know it must be
by faith, and through the blood of Christ alone.
Could I pray for a thousand years, could I weep
tears of blood, could I ' give all my goods to feed
the poor, and my body to be burned,' — all this is
nothing as to the deserving of salvation. It is sal
vation by faith. But what is this faith ? What am
I to believe ? I do believe that Christ is able to save
me. I believe that he is willing to save me. I
believe that he is able and willing to save me now.
Yea, I believe that he witt save me, if I be faithful to
the grace of God. But all this does not bring the
Mrs-qng. I want to believe myself into the posses
sion of it. It is my part to believe, — by a naked
faith to hang on a naked Christ. It is God's part to
l>li >-. He knows how and when to do it. Let me
attend to my duty, and leave God's part to his own
wixliun. Blessed then, or unblessed, here I will
stay. I believe : Lord, help me against my unbelief.
Through the grace of God, I will not give up the
i out. st. I bless God, I enjoy already more power
\\ith him. I feel the intercourse open. I was en
abled to take up my cross yesterday by going to see
the sick and poor. I felt the power of God last
K 2

100 MEMOIRS OF THE

night at Daisy-hill. I want, above all things, to be
emptied of sin and filled with God.

" Thursday, 8th. Praise the Lord, O my soul !
I have been again wrestling this morning for an hour
with my Saviour for a clean heart. I felt restless
and eager to obtain the blessing. God gave me this
promise, on which I desire to lean, Zeph. Hi. 14, 10:
' Sing. O daughter of Zion ; shout, O Israel ; be glad
and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jeru
salem. The Lord hath taken away thy judgments,
he hath cast out thine enemy : the King of Israel,
even the Lord, is in the midst of thee : thou shalt not
see evil any more.' I feel an increased degree of
confidence; but I want the witness of my full sanc-
tification. Mr. Wesley speaks- of the clear witness
of this blessing as well as of the forgiveness of sin.
This is what I desire. I felt this morning a degree
of impatience, because the' Lord does not come as
soon as I ask him. I think this is wrong. I ought
to be, as the poet has it, ' restless, resigned.' I desire
this restlessness, and yet this resignation. Yesterday
I was generally kept by the power of God. My
communion with him was pretty regular. I \\;n
enabled to be tolerably diligent, and to take up my
cross in visiting the sick. Praise the Lord ! But yet
how immensely far am I from the mark !

" Friday, 9th. I feel it is as necessary to be as
earnest, as watchful, as wrestling, and as prayerful,
to keep grace, as to yet it. Yesterday I did not obey
the 'still small voice' of the Spirit, which called im-
to prayer ; and I felt a degree of coldness creep on,
with the rising of an evil temper. In the evening,

HKV. DAVID STONEK.

101

I lm<J little liberty in preaching, except in the appli
cation, when I frit a concern for the souls of my
hearers. This morning I had a violent onset. Some
thing suggested that holiness was not worth the price
I had to pay for it ; — this self-denial, this taking up
the cross, this wrestling in prayer, this rising in a
morning, this redeeming the- time as it flies, this
determined opposition and struggle against every
evil thought as it rises. But, thank God, through
his grace I conquered. Yet while I strove to wrestle
for an hour with him, it was to me too much as a
' dry breast.' Praise the Lord for another promise :
'Thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.'
I engaged that, if the Lord would give me a pro
mise, I would believe it. He has given me this
encouraging declaration, and I am bound to believe
it. Lord, I do believe it. But I want the seal, the
witness. I want not only the 'iniquity to be taken
away,' but my soul to be 'filled with the fulness of
God.' Lord, fill me !

"Saturday, 10th. Praise the Lord, my mind is
nt peace, stayed upon God. Yesterday I enjoyed
communion with God without much interruption.
I was enabled to take up my cross, and redeem the
time. I felt the presence of the Lord last night at
Horton. This morning I have again been pleading
with God for an hour for all his fulness. I again
feel the application of the word, 'Thine iniquity is
taken away, and thy sin purged.' My soul labours
to believe it. I have given all up to God. There is
nothing I want to keep for myself, the world, or the
devil. I have given God all. And, through Cfiri-t,

102 MEMOIRS OF THE

T claim all. I take Christ as my 'all in all;' and
here my soul rests. He will never condemn ni> i':ir
believing too boldly, if I only labour with all my
soul to obtain that for which I believe. I do not yrt
feel the transporting raptures I expect; — the sealing
of the Spirit, — the indubitable witness of my full
sanctification ; — but I do feel that I can lie in the
dust, and simply say, ' Speak, Lord ; for thy servant
heareth.'

' To know thou tak'st me for thine own,
O what a happiness is this ! '

"Sunday, llth. Glory be to God, I yet expe
rience his power and love. 1 went to the band-
meeting last night, expecting to receive the blessing ;
but I did not. I hare been wrestling with God for
it this morning, but I cannot lay hold. Lord, show
me the hind* ranee. What can it be ? I cannot dis
cover it. I feel that ceaseless resolution, prayer, and
watchfulness, are necessary to my advancing in the
divine life. I was unwatchful for some time yester
day, and it brought a degree of darkness into my
soul. I want to live in the spirit of self-denial, self-
mortiHcation, and taking up the cross.

' — All that to the end endure

The cross, shall wear the crown/

" Monday, 12th. I thank my God for the com
forts I enjoyed yc-d-nlay. In the morning I had a
good season, and in the afternoon a considerable
degree of liberty of speech. I feel an earnest desire
that souls may be saved. I yet am thirsting for a
clean heart. — Yesterday I discovered several things

1U.V. DAVID STOM1H. lU3

which are inconsistent with a clean lieart. 1. I felt,
for t\vn or three moments at different times, the in
dulgence of evil thoughts. 2. I found pride lurking
within iiic, suggesting that I had preached well, &c.
By pro]>oM,iLr to myself a few questions this morning,
I detected the pride of my heart. ' Am I as willing
that, when souls are saved under my ministry, the
in-trument should be unknown, as that it should be
published ? Am I as willing that souls should be
saved under any otlitr Minister as myself? Am I
as thankful when souls are saved by other means, as
when they are saved under my preaching?' These
questions, pushed home, disclosed my pride. 3. I
felt a reluctance, which I did not always conquer,
to reprove sin, Sabbath-bn aking, &c. 4. I feel
within a sort of reluctance and indifference to the
duty of prayer. Lord, help me ! I know, if the
devil can only get me to lay aside prayer, all is over.
Come, my Lord, and take my heart. I want pridu
destroying. I want to be nothing ; to be clothed
with humility ; to be swallowed up of love. Lord,
' I am thine : save me ! '

" Tuesday, 13th. Lord, what shall I do to obtain
this perfect love ? Christ is able and willing to give
the blessing now. The hinderance, therefore, must
be all in me. But how is it? I feel my need of this
blessing. I have a restless desire after it. I strive
to seek it with all my heart. So far as I know my
self, I am willing to part with everything to obtain
it. I seek it through the blood of Christ, and I strive
to seek by faith. I believe, as far as I know, us well

104 MEMOIRS OF THE

as I can ; and yet I cannot struggle into this perfect
love. Come, Lord Jesus, take my heart ! Lord, if
there be anything in my heart or life that prevents
me from receiving the blessing, show it me, and re
move it. Yesterday, I had a pretty good day on
the whole. In preaching here last night, I enjoyed
tolerable liberty. Praise the Lord, O my soul !

" Wednesday, 14th. Glory be to God ! I feel
that I am the Lord's. I have been giving myself
again to my Saviour and" my Lord. I love my
Saviour. I feel his love m my heart. I can say
with confidence, ' Lord, thou knowest all things ;
thou knowest that I love thee.' ' Whom have I in
heaven but thee ? and there is none upon earth that
I desire beside thee.' While wrestling this morning
with God for a clean heart, I fclt much nearness to
him, — much of his presence. I thought myself not
'far from the kingdom of God;' but I could not
step in. I want the power of faith ; and I want to
know how to use it. Unbelief is the accursed bar.
So far as I know, I am willing, through God's grace,
to give up all ; to do or suffer anything; to be used
for God, or to be laid aside for God ; to be exalted
for God, or to be trampled on for God ; so that he
would fill me with his perfect love ! Lord, I would
still look up. I would be still expecting the descent
of the Holy Ghost. Come, and fill my heart ! The
Lord has now kept me for a week. Satan tells me
that this will soon be over ; that, according to my
usual instability, this fit of earnestness will speedily
be spent ; but he who has kept me a week, can keep

UEV. DAVID STONER. !<>.>

me a month or a year. The present moment is mine.
Kurd, h<'lp me to use it aright !

" Thursday, 15th. Tins morning I have had a
hard struggle. Three quarters of an hour I waited
at God's feet. ! could not lay hold. I could not
get my mind fixed. Wandering thoughts would
lircnk in. It seemed to be the 'hour and power o!
darkness.' But by struggling on, and calling to the
Stnmg for strength, I obtained at length a degree of
liberty. Yesterday afternoon I felt a deadness, and
>hyness, and coldness creeping over my soul. I
prayed two or three times, and found no help. My
iniiid became somewhat alarmed, lest I should be
sinking into my former state of indifference. I went
agiiin to God, and at last found liberty of soul, and
ease of access. I feel in danger, great danger. I
do not watch sufficiently. I want continually to
walk with God ; to do everything in the name of
my Lord Jesus Christ ; to speak, and think, and
read, and eat, and walk, and pray, and preach ; in
a word, to do all to the glory of God. Lord, save
me !

" Friday, 16th. Glory be to God for his sparing
and saving mercy. Yesterday I felt a considerable
degree of coldness. I am not so watchful as I have
been. I indulged wandi-ring thoughts. I did not
hold constant communion with God. I was fast sink-
vnir ; hut, blessed be God, I feel my desires and re
solutions kindled afresh. God save me ! Lord, save
me now! A thought occurred to my mind thu
morning, that the reason why I did not obtain th|
second blessing was, that I was not clear in the en-

10G MKMOIHS OF THE

joyment of the first. I examined myself. I ft el
that I am a sinner, that Christ died for sinners,
that he died for me ; and here is my sole reliance.
Ix)rd, I am condemned, but Christ has died. I fetl
that I am his, and he is mine. I opened to a pas
sage which instructs and encourages : ' I wait for
the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I
hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they
that watch for the morning. Let Israel hope in the
Lord : for with the Lord there is mercy, and with
him is plenteous redemption. And he shall redeem
Israel from all his iniquities. ' O my God, accom
plish such promises in my soul !

" Saturday, 17th. Glory be to God, I still feel
his saving power. I feel that I believe in Christ.
I am afraid that I am not thankful enough for the
ten thousand mercies that I receive. The Lord still
enables me to spend no more than six hours in bed ;
to devote an hour to prayer in the morning, and to
take up the cross in going to see the sick ; and ge
nerally through the day to hold communion with
him. But I want the fulness; — perfect humility,
perfect patience, perfect love. My union with God
is often interrupted. The devil eagerly strives to
reduce me to my former state of indifference. I was
powerfully beset with temptations this morning;
but, blessed be God, he does deliver, and he will
deliver. May he fill me with his fulness! I want
to do everything in the name of Jesus.

" Sunday, 18th. My soul is still athirst for God.
Last night, at the band-meeting, I seemed to be just
on the verge of receiving the blessing; but I could

HKV. DAVID STONKR. I1 17

not struggle tliroiigh. Again this morning I have
been pleading for it ; but I cannot get hold of it.
Lord, what is the hinderance? Am I not in suffi
cient earnest? Am I not seeking the blessing with
all my heart ? Yes, Lord, as far as I know my heart,
I am. So far as I can judge, my whole soul is en
gaged. Is there anything that I have not given up?
I do not know that there is. Everything that I
know of, I am willing to sacrifice. I feel willing,
through the grace of God, to be anything, or
nothing, so that I can but enter into this rest. Am
I seeking the blessing by the law of works ? I hope
not ; but I fear there is too much dependence on my
own seeking and doings. Lord, remove this prop.
Am I seeking it by faith ? I know it can be ob
tained only by faith. And it is by faith that I wish
to seek it. Lord, help me to believe !

" Monday, 19th. Glory be to God, I enjoyed his
presence and help yesterday. I had three good
times at the chapel. Whilst I was preaching a fu
neral sermon, my heart was softened. This morning,
while striving to wrestle with God, I was much
troubled with wandering thoughts ; but towards the
close of the hour, I felt greater liberty. I do not
yet receive the blessing. I am much afraid of sink
ing down into a state of indifference, if I do not get
it soon. Lord, rome to my help ! I want to feel
that /am nothing, that great I U entirely annihi-
littnl, and that Christ is all in all ! O for a struggle
into God !

" Tuesday, 20th. This morning, while I have
been engaged in prayer, I have felt greater earnest-

It'M MK.M01US OF THE

ness, greater resolution, and stronger faith, I think,
than I ever felt. I seemed to myself just on the
threshold of salvation. O that I could enter in !
God gave me this passage, ' Many waters cannot
quench love, neither can the floods drown it: if a
man would give all the substance of his house for
love, it would utterly be contemned.' From this
passage I thought I discovered that I was making a
sort of bargain with God, that if he would sell me
his perfect love, I would sell him all I have and am,
as a sort of equivalent for it; but I see this is not
the way. I am to give all up ; but this is nothing
as to the meriting of salvation. I am to receive it
purely through the merits of Christ. O that I knew
ho\v to believe !

" Wednesday, 21st. ' Speak, Lord ; for thy ser
vant heareth.' This is the present feeling of my
soul. 1 feel willing to relinquish all, and through
Christ to receive salvation as the free gift of God.
Last night, at Heaton, I felt my heart drawn out
for the sinners of that place. O my God, heal them !

" Friday, 23d. Yesterday morning I rose too
late ; but still I spent my hour in prayer, and en
joyed much nearness to God whilst I was praying.
I felt willing to surrender all, and to receive salva
tion as the free gift of God in Christ Jesus. But
through the day I suffered my heart to grow languid,
and to wander, so that last night, at Parsley, I felt
but little power. When I came to my duty this
morning, I had a mighty contest. My heart was
hard, and reluctant, and indifferent. I felt a dis
tance between God and my soul. The devil per-

IlEV. DAVID STONKif ^'

plexed me much with wandering thoughts; Imt at
length I wre-'tled and prayed, till I obtained deliver
ance. The door of access was again set open; the
channel of intercourse wa* renewed, and I feltpower
with God. I still search for a clean heart, and
sometimes to myself seem very near it: but I cannot
get hold. I feel desirous above all things to receive
it. Christ I know is desirous above all things to
give it. Then how is it that I cannot lay hold ?
What is it that hinders? So far as God has given
me light, I am willing to give up all. I strive to
seek it with my whole soul, and to seek it by faith.
Lord, have mercy upon me, and teach me the way,
that I may walk in it !

" Saturday, 24th. My heart is hard. I thank
God, however, that I am enabled, in a great degree,
to deny myself, to take up my cross, to follow him
in the way of duty, to live more in the spirit of
prayer than I used to do, and to be earnest in my
application to him for a clean heart; but still I do
not receive the blessing. My soul is discouraged and
disheartened. Lord, help me to be more in earnest,
and direct me in the way of faith !

" Monday, 2Cth. Glory, glory be to God ! This
morning, while I have been praying, he has b!
me. My heart is watered, softened, and quickened.
I feel a stronger confidence than over that from sin,
and death, and hell God will redeem my soul. Yes
terday, in the afternoon, I had a specially
season. Uut I want filling \\itli (Jod.

"Wednesday, -2sth. OH looking over the two
pa*t day*. I MV much reason tor humility, and much

L

110 MKMOIR8 OF THK

for praise. On Monday, in our Quarterly Meet
ing, &c., all was peace. At our watch-night we had
a blessed season. Last night at Frizingley the power
of the Lord was present to heal. Yesterday morn
ing, I felt considerable power to plead with God.
But during the day I was off my guard. I was un-
watchful. I got into a light spirit. I did not pray
as I ought. However, I thank God, I have enjoyed
a degree of liberty in again coining to him. I feel
it profitable to read a chapter or two on my knees,
and to pray over them. The prayer in Eph. iii.
14, &c., ' For this cause I bow my knees,' &c.,
appears to contain an infinite fulness. O that I could
enter in !

" Thursday, 29th. I feel my soul still resolved.
Last night at Low-Moor I had a good time. I pray
for a clean heart, but 1 do not receive : and I cannot
discover the reason, except perhaps it is that I am
not equally earnest throughout the day. I have
been reading Fuller's ' Life of Pearce,' and have
been much benefited by it. O that I could imitate
his earnestness, his humility, his affection !

" Friday, 30th. Yesterday my heart wandered
again too much. I was at Wibsey, but had little feel
ing and little faith. I have set apart this day for
fii-iting and prayer. I have been earnestly praying
to be filled with the Spirit : and have been renew iu'_r
my covenant with God ai-cordinur to Allrine's form,
and feel willing to give up all, and to become the
entire servant of the Lord. — I, David Stoner, a
wicked sinner, a child of ten thousand mercies, do
promise, through God's grace, from this hour to de-

1U.V. DAVID STONF.K. Ill

vote myself and my whole life to his glory through
his Son. In testimony of which, I hereto, in the
presence of God, and of his holy angels, solemnly
subscribe my hand. DAVID STONER."

About this time ho wrote to Mr. Ilanwell : "We
have an excellent band-meeting on Saturday even
ings in our vestry, at which we have several clear
witnesses of the power of Christ to cleanse from all
sin. These testimonies, as well as the life that is
among our people generally, and the conversions
which we see, rejoice my heart, inasmuch as they are
proofs that the glory is not departed from us, and
that God lias not forsaken us. — I have lately read
the ' Life of Socinus,' by Toulmin. I entered upon
it with caution, lest I should be caught by the se
ducing words of man's wisdom, and led from the
truth. But I do not recollect that I ever read any
work which more fully confirmed me in the Christian
scheme. Such shuttling, and imibbling, and twist
ing, and racking, and torturing, to bend the Scrip
ture-; to a system. I never saw. I really do not
conceive how any man of sense can believe that
scheme cordially, except he be first given up to the
delusion of the devil to believe a lie; and when a
iii.in is M> given up, it -eenis, from experience, that
he can swallow any absurdity. — What do you think
of Brain well's Lite?* When I read it, I was pleas
ingly disappointed. I was at'raid there would be a

* The second volume of Mr. BramwrH's " Memoirs"

' I'ulili-1 I'll wl.i'ii Mr. S uner \\iote the abovr.
to the first volume, therefore, tint hi< ivmtrk- arc in
to apply.

L -'

112 MEMOIRS OF THE

great deal of captious querulousness in it ; but there
is very little. He was truly a great man of God.
My soul was ashamed, humbled, and quickened in
reading it. I do not know that the reading of any
book ever produced such an effect upon my mind.
You are acquainted in a very small degree with my
fickleness. You know that I have resolved, and re-
resolved, thousands of times, that I would live nearer
to God. But, alas ! my resolutions never lasted
above a few days, or a few weeks at the longest.
The reading of Mr. B.'s Life has led me to begin
again. My resolution has now lasted three weeks,
and I still feel the force of it. I think I have got
upon a better system than I ever did. Perseverance
will do everything."

" Sunday, July 2d. This morning I have been
renewing my covenant with God. I give myself
fully up to him. I take him as my God. I call him
mine: I consider myself as his. I will ' reckon my
self to be dead indeed unto sin.' I feel a settled
confidence in God. I taste the peace of God. I
hope he will be with me this day. I want to be
' filled with the Spirit.' I have missed it, after I
have prayed, in not 'watching thereunto with all
perseverance and supplication for all saints.' Lord,
help me to live this moment for thee !

" Monday, 3d. Rose this morning at four. Spent
an hour on my knees. Felt much harassed with wan
dering thoughts. The devil hates prayer. Had a
pretty good day yesterday. But I want to feel more
n -tli— iind ;mxioii- about (he conversion of sinners.
<)t' \\hat use is it preaching, except good is done?

RKV. DAVID STONKII.

. betofiod, I heard of an instance mi Saturday
evening of a sinner being awakened under a sermon
from, ' Beliold, I stand at the door, and knock,' &c.
Lord, make me more faithful!

"Tuesday, 4th. Yesterday I grieved the Spirit
liy nut 'joiner Out to visit the sick and poor. I in
dulged my indolence, having not had sufficient sleep
the night before, and remained at home. But
1 he (lod. lie again visited my soul at tin*
chapel in the evening. While Mr. Turton was
recommending the example of Christ, my heart was
softened, and I was again determined to pursue the
mind of ( 'hri>t. This morning I have felt it good to
draw near to God. My soul is enlivened. Them;
words in the morninir le-<on. I vviis enabled to plead
mid rely upon : -The eternal (lod i- thy refuge, and
underneath are the everlasting arm-: and he shall
thrust out the enemy from before tliee ; and shall say,
Destroy them.' I feel that (!od is my refuge, that
his arms are underneath me, to protect and support;
mid that he will thrust out and destroy my inward
enemies. Lord, by thy strength I drag out this
pride;— now kill it: this unbelief ;- now destroy it:
this self-will ; — now abolMi it : this love of the
world ; — now bani-h it ! () that my soul were tilled
\\ith (Jod !

"Wednesday, ."ith. Ye-terday was a -'""d da\ to
my -<>ul. Cud helped me to take np the cross, and
to \i-it the sirk and poor. In reading Mr. Vasey's
Life, I felt x'ftrncd and quickened. \\ > ha\e held
our tirst fi\e-o'dock prayer-meeting this morning.
The power of the Lord was pre-cnt to heal. I do
L 3

1 14 MKMOIHS OF THE

not yet clearly apprehend this full salvation. S<>me-
times I am ready to think I have it; and that I do
not sufficiently distinguish between temptations and
evil tempers. Lord, give me light and power !

" Thursday, 6th. The intercourse has again been
opened this morning. Yesterday I neglected to take
up a cross. My heart indulged some wandering.
I was not watchful and prayerful. Darkness and
shyness got in. But, blessed be God for a 'throne
ot'grace,' and for grace to come to it. Satan laboured
hard this morning, by injecting wandering thoughts,
to keep me at a distance. He hates prayer. I more
than ever feel the necessity of it. Whilst I can con
tinue to devote an hour every morning to this work,
I think God will keep and help me. O for pre
serving grace !

' Keep me, keep me, gracious Lord ;
And never let me go.'

" Friday, 7th. This morning I have again enjoyed
nearness to God. I feel fully willing, as far as
I know myself, to be the Lord's on the Lord's own
terms. I sometimes think my heart is already
cleansed ; but I lose it by my refusing to acknowledge
and believe it, and by unwatchfulness. Now, at this
moment, I do not know that I have anything, or
fed anything', contrary to love. I should like to
'reckon injself now 'dead to sin,' and tilled with
perfect love ; but I am afraid of presuming, of reck
oning without my host. O for the sealing power !
O for the fulness of love! If my Saviour would
come, and iill me 'unutterably full of glory and of

KKV. DAVID STONER. 1 1 ~>

G<xl,' then I tliink I slioulcl be satisfied. But is not
thi* to -:iy, If Christ will save rne first, I will then
believe ? Lord, teach me how to believe! and O
keep me this day ! I am going to the School Com
mittee at the Grove. Keep ray thoughts, and
temper*, and tongue, and actions! I want to 'pray
without. cL-asing,' and to 'watch unto all persever
ance.' \c.

turday, 8th. Blessed be God, my soul is alive.
God said to me this morning while praying, ' I
will, be thou clean.' Faith says, I am clean ! But
I want the fulness! Lord, save me!

" Sunday, 10th. This last week I have been from
home on a visit to my friends at Barwick. Blcs-(\i
be God this visit has not been in vain. I preached
there on Wednesday evening, and the word was not
miitle^. All the glory be to God! I myself did
not feel much. I was rather cramped than other-
wi<e. Hut it <eems, from what was said afterwards,
that the word went home to several hearts. On Fri
day evening, at the class, one person said the word
entered her heart like a two-edged sword. That
rveninir, before the class was dismissed, she found
liberty. During the first prayer at the class-meet
ing, I felt the power of God come down. My heart
began to melt. While I was praying, I felt as if 1
was going to plunge into the fountain ; but just at
the moment something within me shrunk back, and
I did not then enter in. Through the meeting, I
continued to wait on (rod ; and in praying again at
the conclusion, I seemed to be within a hair's breadth
of salvation. My heart softened, and warmed, and

116 MKMOIRS OF TIIK

filled : my prayer was turned into praises, and I
could do nothing but shout, ' Glory be to God ! ' I
felt that God had taken possession of my heart. This
morning I enjoy in part the sweetness of it. I have
been severely harassed with the idea that it was only
enthusiasm, or a delusion. But I wish to keep my
evidence. I feel nothing contrary to love. I want
to be every moment filled with God. Whether I
hold or not, I am sure that God took full possession
of my heart on the 14th of July."

That period of Mr. Stoner's life to which the pre
ceding extracts have conducted us, is very important
in the history of his religious experience. One of
the compilers of these pages was present at the class-
meeting mentioned above. It was a memorable
opportunity, a season of uncommon " refreshing
from the presence of the Lord." Mr. Stoner was
exceedingly earnest, and, in the peculiar ardour of
his desires after spiritual blessings, appeared equally
to forget the concerns of earth, and the frailties of
his own mortal nature. The writer distinctly remem
bers that part of the meeting, when, in the vehe
mence of believing prayer, he exclaimed, " My God,
I am within a hair's breadth !" At that moment tli<'
penitent, who had been convinced of sin on the
Wednesday evening, found peace : and, shortly after
wards, Mr. Stoner received the blessing which he
has recorded in terms so explicit and satisfactory.
From his private papers, indeed, it appears that he
did not always enjoy a clear and undisputed evidence
of it. Ilis views of the purity and extent of the
divine law were exceedingly deep,- and his con-

IlKV. DAVID STO.N I. II. 1 I I

viction of tin; heights of holiness, to which a man
i:i:i\ I.*- raided by the blood and Spirit of Christ,
manually cle\ated. These, associated with his timid
and scrupulous temper, sometimes gave advantage
to his spiritual enemies, and tended to obscure his
e\idcnee, and impair his enjoyments. At such
times, however, nothing could satisfy him but a
renewed attestation of God's sanctifying grace to his
heart. In his diary he often indulges in his wonted
complaints, but he invariably expresses his deter
minate purpose to persevere in his high and heavenly
pursuits.

On tlio-e extracts from his papers, which have
occupied several preceding pages, it may not be
superfluous to remark, that they exhibit a sublime
example of sincere and fervent piety. Designed as
the simple effusions of his feelings and desires at
the moment when he wrote, they differ widely from
the language, too often, it is feared, unexamined
and unfelt, of commonplace devotion, and afford a
powerful representation of the lofty tendencies of
the sonl iii pursuit of the highest good. To the
lamentable apathy of many worldly philosophers
such things may appear enthusiastic and absurd ;
but to the correct and enlarged views of superior
intelligences, it is doubtless matter of wonder and
delight to see an immortal spirit, even while it
tenants a house of clay, despising all the seductions
of earth and sin, directing the full tide of its de-in -
towards the incomprehen>il)le and eternal God, and
striving to lose itself in the unutterable plenitude of
liis love. Compared with the exalted aims of sm h

K8 M KM 01 US OF THR

a spirit, the toils of avarice, the blandishments of
pleasure, and the projects of ambition, dwindle into
paltry insignificance, and only attest the awful de
gradation of powers capable of infinitely nobler and
more satisfying objects.

From this time the public labours of Mr. Stoner
were crowned with more visible and extensive suc
cess. Holiness is the best preparation for usefulness.
Such indeed is the regard which the Most High has
for his own truth, that he sometimes prospers it even
when uttered by unhallowed lips ; and such is his
condescension, that he often succeeds the endeavours
of his servants who justly lament their own deficien
cies and infirmities. The more, however, a Minister
of the sanctuary advances in personal purity, the
more successful he generally becomes. Christian in
struction ministered by him possesses a strong and
commanding authority ; — it is sustained by a full
conviction of its reality, and recommended bv the
penetrating energy of personal and vital experience.
To such a Minister ;il-<> (Jod is commonly pleased to
impart a larger portion of that a^Niing Spirit, whose
presence he seeks, and on whose agency he humbly
relies. This was verified in Mr. Stoner. On his
return to Bradford, his friends observed that hia
sermons were, if possible, still more pointed and
powerful ; — that they abounded more with fervent
ejaculations for an immediate blrs>ing; — and that
they were more eminently and evidently siuve— I'ul
in the conversion of sinners, and the edification of
( 'hristian belii \

" Friday, July 21st," he proceeds in his diary : " I

. DAVID STO.VER. 1 ID

ha\e lieen airaiu from home on a vi>it to Holmfirih
and Lindley, preaching n funeral sermon tor my ol«l
friend, I'.etty Smith. But I have suffered loss in
this journey, and am nmeh .-horn of strength. Yet
I feel re.-olved to begin again, and to return to my
former rule*. While wrestling in prayer this morn
ing, my soul feels quickened. Lord, save me this
day !

"Saturday, I2'2d. I feel at liberty this morning.
My mind is quickened. But I want the fulness.
'Speak, Lord: thy servant heareth !'

" Monday, -J4th. Glory be to God for his assist
ance yesterday. We had a good love-feast at Low-
Mom. and la-t night at Heaton I felt much liberty.
It distresses my heart that so little good is done.
Another year is nearly gone, and O! how few sin
ners have been awakened under my ministry ! Lord,
if I am not in my right place and work, if my com
mission is run out, only show me, and I will not stay
another day. But if it is thy will that I should still
preaeli the (io-pel, () render it siic.-ex-.iiil!

''Sunday, :)<>th. Glory be to God, last night
and this morning my soul was revived. While pray-
iiiLT. I have had near access to God. My desires are
stronger ; my eontideiice. is stronger. May God be
with me tliis day ! I have presented the Lord my
heart! He s:iys, ' My son, give me thy heart.' I
answered. 'My heart I give to thee.' I made the
offer, and there I left it. () that the Almighty would
accept it !

•• Wednesday, August 2d. I feel, blessed be God,
that I am recovering the strength I had some time

120 MEMOIUS OF THE

ago. On Sunday I had, upon the whole, a good day.
At intervals since, I have enjoyed the presence of
rny God. But I do not yet live as I ought. I feel
earnest in a morning during my hour's devotions,
but I lose it again in the day. I <lo not live suffi
ciently in the spirit of prayer ; and, therefore, being
unwatchful, I get shorn of my strength. Lord, ki-cp
me this day ! I had a good time at the five o'clock
meeting.

" Tuesday, 8th. My heart is still engaged with
God for my own salvation, and for the salvation < f
others. But I still have to mourn. I am not con
tinually watchful. I am not always recollected. I
often lose sight for a time of spiritual things. I fed,
I think, more concern for the salvation of souls, and
the prosperity of Zion. I feel a spirit of prayer for
Mr. Entwisle, who is expected at Bradford next
year, that God will make him an abundant blessing
to us all. Lord, if thou canst not make use of me,
at least use him for thy glnry ; and let the next \ car
be the best this Circuit ever saw !

•' Saturday, 12th. Glory be to God for his con
tinued mercy. I feel at this moment that I have
hold of my Saviour. While I have been pleading
with him, I have felt my heart considerably softencil.
I want humility above all things. I want to be will
ing to be anything <>r nothing! I see such desirable
ness in humility, I think, as I never did.

"Tuesday, 15th. When I examine myself impar
tially, I find that I am not so much in earnest as I
was a few weeks since. To decrease in earnestncs>
is the road to Inkrwcirmness, death, and ruin. O

REV. DAVID MONTI:. I '21

Lord, quicken my soul ! Still I am resolved, through
tli. LIMIT of God, to be his entirely, and for ever.

"Wednesday, 16th. My soul is quickened. I
ronger desires after the salvation of sinners.
At Heaton, last night, my soul enjoyed the presence
of God. I long to be filled with God. I heard yes
terday rood news from Barwick, that God is saving
sinners. Lord, ride on !

"Thursday, 17th. I feel my heart drawn out this
inrniing. I love my God. I believe in Christ. He
i> my Saviour. Preaching out of doors at White-
Alilicv, last night, I felt blessed. Revive thy work,
them God of love !

" Monday, 21st. On Saturday evening, I had a
good time at the band. But, at the close of the
meeting, I lost it all. A man came to request me to
vi-it a sick woman. It was late. The house was at
Sim!.- distance. I was hot. The night was cold:
&c., &c. I listened to hVsli and blood, and said, No.
But I Imvebeen properly whipped for this since. It
spoiled my day yesterday ; but this morning I have
again gut the intereonr>e open. I thank God, this
circumstance has convinced me that my conscience-
is increasingly tender.

" Sunday, 27th. My soul is alive ! God is re
viving his work among us! Glory be to him!
My unworthy labours he is pleased to own. I
('.•cl a greater hatred to pride, a greater power over
vain-glorious thoughts. May God save me this
t!ay!

"Tuesday, 20th. I am encouraged to hope that
God is about to revive his work. Last night we had

1-J-J MEM iiits OK Tin:

a pood time ;it 15ro\\nr<>\ d. My ><>ul lungs for the
prosperity of Zion."

To Mr. Hanwell lie writes, under the date of the
last extract: "The thought of writing to you brings
to my mind an association of ideas tinged with
pleasing melancholy. ' Busy meddling memory,' in
swift succession, musters up the past endearments of
delicious hours, spent in all the delights of friendship

' Friendship ! Mysterious cement of the soul,
Sweet'ner of life, nnd solder of society !
I owe thee much.'

But to come down to plain prose, as I am no poet :
— the recollection of past scenes, and past hours,
spent at lluddersfield, fills my mind with pain and
pleasure; and this mingled feeling now possesses my
heart, while I sit down to write to you. — I have
preached out of doors several times of late ; and
intend to do so whenever I have an opportunity. I
find it also very useful to hold prayer-meetings, after
preaching, in the country places. — I have just l>re:i
conversing with one of our good women on sancti-
fication. She once enjoyed it; but has now lost it.
When I consider my privileges, my obligations, and
my lukewarmness, I am ashamed before God. But
yet I have cause for thankfulness. I can say it to
the honour of God's grace. I never enjoyed so much
of the power of religion these many years, as I have
done since I read Mr. Bramwell's Life. But again,
if there is such a thing as perfect love to be enjoyed,
whv am I so foolish as to live without it? In the
enjoyment of such a UltWm^. 1 should be able todis-

nr.v. DAVID STO.-VKH. 10-1

charge nil the awful duties of my office with much
Lrreafer ruse, comfort, stead ine<s, and succi— . I
wNh to give the matter a fair trial. If I find the
Mr-Jot: unattainable, untenable, or inconsistent with
my situation, I can but, at last, give it up. O pray
for me, that I may be ' filled with all the fulness of
God.' "

"TV-lay, September 12th. Self-examination, I
find, lias been profitable. How is it with me now?
.•times feel a disposition to be angry, peevNh,
and impatient. I feel pleasure in human applause,
— pain at human censure. I often feel a great reluc
tance to pray in private. I always feel a reluctance
to visit the sick and poor. I find it exceedingly
difficult to reprove sin, and, on some occasions, to
own my Master. I often feel wandering thought?
and unwatchfulness. I indulge in unprofitable spe-
riiliitiiins and useless conversations. I feel pride
often ri-inir in the pulpit. I am much wanting in
spiritual-mindedness. I often feel the risings of envy
and nneharitalileness. I am much pestered with
wandering thought! in my private devotions. I am
often ensnared with evil-speaking and slandering.
Now, who can think, after all this list of evils, that I
run a ( '!;ri-ti in ? O! how easy it is to wear a mask
of Christianity and how difficult to have the heart
right \\ith <;.»] ! However, thanks to God, I feel a
confidence in Ji--u> a- my Saviour. I feel, SO far as
I know myself, that it is the strongest desire of my
heart to be fully -anctified. But O ! what is it that
hinders me from reeeivinir this second blessing? I
am a-hamed of m\>e!t'! So many of our people

1 -'4 MKMOIKS OK THE

living in the enjoyment of it ; I preaching it to
others, urging others to seek it, and professing to
seek it myself; and yet living below it. Lord, what
is it that hinders? I think, if Mr. Bramwell were
somewhere within fifty miles, I would go to him,
that he might teach me, and pray for me. But how
foolish is this ! Christ is here ! with me, and in me !
Why then do I not enter into the promised land ?
Lord, I beseech thee remove the hinderance out of
the way !

" Monday, 18th. My God hears and answers
prayer. He has begun to revive his work. At
Bowling he is saving sinners. O may the fire spread
throughout the Circuit ! On the whole, I had a good
<liiy yesterday at Horton. But yet I do not receive
the fulness. Lord, help me !

" Monday, 25th. Glory be to God ! My soul is
happy in his love. Yesterday morning, in my pri
vate devotions, I gave myself up to him, and felt
nearness of access to him. In the former part of the
love-feast in the afternoon, I felt my soul filled and
blessed. While a young woman was giving a clear
statement of justification and sanctification, my soul
was blessed indeed. In the latter part of the service,
my mind was dissipated. Several were crying out
for mercy, which created much apparent confusion
in the chapel. My condition was like that of a pilot
in the midst of a storm, when the vessel will not obey
the helm. Glory be to God, however, the work is
broken out, and I trust it w ill go forward. Last
night, in preaching, I had a pood time. And this
morning my soul has been happy indeed. I feel

HEY. DAVID STONI.H. IC.'j

tiiat Christ 1ms my heart. Whether thi< be saricti-
lication or not, I have not the clear assurance ; but
my soul is full of love and joy. Lord, keep me !

" rridiiy, -20th. My li<<;irt is given up to God.
So far :is 1 kno\v myself, I reserve nothing. Glory
bf> to his name, I feel that I am 'growing in LTJICC.'
I have more power over temptation,— and mer iny-
;;in I had some time since. But I want the
witne-; ot' full sanctification. I want fnitli to lay
hold. AVlien I am pleading with God, I feel that I
In lit vo that he is able to save, that he is willing to
s;i\e, that In- is able and willing to save now, that he
will sive ; but when I strive to believe that he will
<-:i\r UK ///•/ / .«/r, my heart shrinks back. This last
act of faith, I think, must be of the immediate ope
ration of the Spirit. Lord, fill me with love !

" Friday, October Gth. Right glad was I \\hen
reading the Minutes of last Conference, to find that
this day was appointed to be observed, throughout
the Connexion, as a day of fasting and prayer. In
two meetings that I have already attended, I felt
much of the pre-enee of God. I accept this as a
token, that God will hear the thousands of prayers
that are offered up this day, and will send u< pros
perity throughout the Connexion. But though I
ha\e -pent above three hours on my knees this day.
I still feel a reluctance to private prayer. Since last
Friday, I have been exces-i\ el\ hara-sed with wander
ing thoughts in private prayer, and very r.irely have

I «' juercd. N'o sooner ha\e I reclaimed my mind

fn.m one object, than it lias hreii after another; and
even while my lips have been asking for deliverance

126 MEMOIKS OF Till:

from wandering thoughts, my mind has been tl-e-
where. This ceaseless combat is, perhaps, one reason
that I feel such reluctance to this duty. I am some
times ready to ask, ' How are these wanderings, and
how is this reluctance, consistent with a regenerated
heart? If my heart were really changed, would it
be thus with me?' But I must hold my shield. My
timidity also robs me of many a blessing. I sometimes
have not courage to act in the will of God. At pre
sent there is one of our wealthy members sick ; ;m<l
though something tells me I should visit her, my
foolish bashfulness restrains me. Lord, help me!

" Sunday, 8th. Tremendous Being ! I wish not
to presume upon thy mercy. If I do presume, be
merciful to me ; and satisfy my mind another way.
But thou knowest I have doubts on my mind,
whether I am in the right place and work. Lord,
if I am right, this day give me liberty in my own
soul, and let some visible good be done ! If I am
wrong, if I have forfeited my commission, let no
visible good be done, and let me have no liberty, no
freedom, no feeling ! O Lord, let not this petition
offend thee ! I want above all tilings to please thee !
Thou readest my heart.

"Wednesday, llth. Glory be to God! This
morning, at the five o'clock meeting, my soul v. as
watered and blessed. I seemed to be on the verge
of a full salvation. Last Sunday, I had a ble-e i
day in my own soul; but I have not yet heard of a-iy
good being done."

On the 30th of the same month, lie <les]i;iU I e 1
a IrtttT to Mr. Hanwell, from which the loir

RKV. DAVID STONER. lv>7

is au extract: — "I congratulate you on your in
creasing family. Your situation is becoming more
and more responsible and important. Much depends
on the father of a numerous family. Family religion
is I fear, too much neglected among us, as a body
of Christian*. And I am afraid we do not recom
mend it to the people with that frequency and fer
vour which its importance requires. On reading
Philip Henry's Life, one cannot but be struck with
tin- diligence and earnestness with which that emi
nent man attended to family duties; and the con
sequence was, that success attended his labours.
May God give you and me every qualification for
the right diadtwge of our duties as heads of families!
During the Conference I began a children's meeting
on Sunday afternoons, and have hitherto maintained
it. The matter rested rather heavily on my con
science. I promised the Conference that I would
attend to this duty ; but I never fulfilled my engage
ment until nmv. It requires much wisdom, patience,
and firmne-s to instruct children." This extract
furnishes an additional proof of Mr. Stoner's solici
tude to discharge every part of his high office with
vigilance and fidelity.

rly at the same time, lie wrote separate let
ter^ to tin- different members of his father's family.
Of these three only have been found. They suffi
ciently declare his pious anxiety for the spiritual
welfare of tlm-e to \\liom they are adiliv-M-.!.

To his sister Ann lie writes: "I hope you con
tinue -tendily to \\atih and pray. YO;I can keen
the ip ' . '! in your heart only by attending

128 MEMOIRS OF THK

regularly to these duties. If you omit them for one
day only, it will bring coldness and deadness into
your soul. You will feel more reluctant to pray
than before ; that reluctance will cause you to omit
your duties a second day ; and so on, till you lose
all relish, and taste, and desire for spiritual things.
Watch over your tempers, that they may be undei
the government of grace. Watch over your t/tonr//tt.«,
that they may be exercised on good and profitable
subjects. Watch over your dt-sircs, that you may
wish for those things only that are pleasing to God.
Watch over your won/*, that 'no corrupt commu
nication may proceed out of your mouth.' Watch
over your actions, that they may be all according
to God's holy law. Watch against the temptations
of Satan, that he may not lead you astray. Watch
against evil company: thousands have been ruined
by light and frothy companions. Watch auaiu-t
' the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyest
and the pride of life.' Watch for opportunities of
doing and getting good. Watch that you may pray,
and pray that you may watch. By prayer you
must get grace, and by wutchiny you mu«t keep
what you have gained. May God bless you, and
preserve you from every evil ! So prays your affec
tionate brother."

" Though you are the last in the family," he
writes to his sister Ellen, "you should not, on that
account merely, be the least esteemed ; and, there
fore, as I am writing a few lines to your brothers
and sister, I must also devote a little time to you.
or you may think it unkind. It is a great u.ercy

RKV. DA.VID HTUNEH. 1'JO

that God has inclined you, in your early days, to begin
to pray. Early piety is peculiarly valuable in the
sight of God. The Scripture tells us, 'It is good
tor 11 man that he bear the yoke in his youth.' And
God commands, ' Remember now thy Creator in the
days of thy youth.' By giving your heart to God
in the morning of life, you will enjoy many blessings
which others can never enjoy; and you will be saved
from ten thousand evils, which others bring on them-
through their disobedience to God's com
mands. Christ loves young disciples. ' He gathers
the lambs with his arms, and carries them in his bosom.'
Christ loves the sacrifice of a young heart. O! present
him the (lower in its bloom ! — Those who are noted
in the Scriptures for their early piety, are also
remarked for the distinguished honour which God
conferred upon them. Joseph, Samuel, Davi I,
Obadiah, Josiah, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abed-
ainl Timothy, are some of those who re
membered their Creator in their youth ; and see
how God honoured them. Joseph became tlte
second man in Egypt, and the saviour of Egypt
and his father's house. Samuel became an eminent
Prophet, and a Judge over all the tribes of Israel.
Duriil \vas raised from the sheep-fold to the throne,
and was the sweet singer of Israel. Olmdlah is
said to have 'feared the Lord ijrcatli/ ;' and per
haps the grand canst- of this was, that he 'feared
the Lord from his youth.' He was also one of the
principal otiicers in King Ahab's court. Joniah'f
piety established the tottering throne of Jndali for
many years, and broMtrht many blessings upon tin-

130 MEMOIRS OK TIIK

Jews. Daniel was raised to be the Prime Minister
of a great empire, and his three companions were
Governors of provinces. Tinmtliy was a useful
Bishop of a Christian church ; — and Ellen Stoner,
if God should spare her, and if she continue t<>
serve him, will be a comfort to her friends, an
honour to her name, useful to all around her, happy
in her own soul, — she will bring much glory to
God, and then sing his praises for ever and ever.—
Watch and pray. Diligently attend to private
prayer. Cultivate a taste for reading. Read the
Bible regularly through. Ask God before you read,
and as you read, to teach you to understand hi-;
book. Keep out of light company. Improve your
time. Love the house of God. Honour and obey
your father and mother. Never dispute their com
mands. Never murmur at their directions. Pray
for your sister Ann, that God may keep her ; for your
brothers, Joseph, Thomas, and David; and for your
father and mother, that God may bless them."

In writing to the different members of 1m father's
household, he did not forget the servant-boy, but
addressed him in the follow intr simple mid
tionate manner : — "James Gill, While I was writing
to our folks, a thought struck me, that I should write
a line to thee also. — Thou hast no kind father to take
care of thee ; but remember that God has promised
many times in his word to take care of the fatherless ;
and if thou be obedient, he will bless thee, and save
thee. 31 ind and be a good lad. Hate all sin. No
thing but sin can hurt thee. But, remember, thou
not keep thyself from sin : thou must pray to

iu:v. DAVID SIO.M-II. l.'Jl

Cod fur hi- -HUT to keep thee. Therefore, watch
and pray continually. Honour and obey thy master
nnd mistn~s; and I am sure they will lie kind to
tlioe as loiii: as they live. Spend tliy leisure time in
reading some of those good books that thy mother
has s, nt thee; and, above all, road thy Bible. It is
the book of God. It will teach thee in all things
what thou must do. — I will send thee thy books when
I hau> read them, by the first opportunity. May
God himself bless thee with all good things ! So
prays, dear Jem, thy friend, David Stoner."

" Wednesday, November 1st. I now enjoy a con
fidence in God. My language is, 'I the chief of
sinners am, hut Je-us died for me.' Were I sure of
d\iiiLr the next minute, this would be my language.
I thank the Lord that, in some things, I get more
poucr. I am enabled to be more diligent in preach
ing the word, and vUiting the sick; and more spi
ritual in conversation : but yet I am awfully wanting
in many things. I am much troubled with wander
ing thoughts. I do not pray enough. I am not in
sufficient earnest for full sanctifieation. Lord, cleanse
my heart! What is the reason I do not obtain this
purity .' I Mk, and Mtrch, and a-k, and ask; and
yet I am without it. Since I last wrote in this diary,
I have been at York, and was shorn of my strength.
I am not at all fit to travel : it puts me out of my
way ; unhinge^ and dis-ipates my mind.

"Tuesday, oili. Lord, ' 1 am oppressed ; under
take for me!' In pity to my weakness, () help my
M>ul ! — God has been laving me under fresh obliga
tions, by '_'i\iii'jr me another son. and in some degree

1,1-2 MEMOIRS OF Till'.

restoring my wife to health ; but such is my ingra
titude, that my heart runs away from lain. Lord,
have mercy upon my wretched soul ! O that I could
pray ! O that I could weep ! O that I could repent!

0 that I could feel !

" Wednesday, Gth. Thank the Lord, I was a
little encouraged last night : my desires were
strengthened. I feel much better this morning.
Come, Jesus, and take my heart !

" Friday, 8th. This morning I am resolved, by
God's grace, to press forward. I feel much in my
heart that is opposed to the will of God. Often there
is a mighty struggle between the flesh and the spirit.
May God help me to overcome ! "

On the 27th and 29th of this month, he writes to
Mr. Hanwell : " Praise the Lord, things are going
on pretty well among us. Sinners are awakened,
and believers are ' built up on their most holy faith.'

1 never was among a people that I liked better ; and
we have a prospect of usefulness and prosperity. — I
thank the Lord with you ; that you and the family
have been saved in the hour of affliction. Sanctified
affliction can teach such lessons, and teach them so
well, as nothing else can. ' Whom the Lord loveth
he chasteneth.' — We hear that Messrs. — , — , and
— , are to be invited to Leeds next year. Well-
chosen trio ! All excellent in their kind. But which
will have the brightest crown? And what other
object is worthy of our pursuit ? What is popularity,
or learning, or extensive influence, or respectability,
or honour, or anything, compared with bringing
glory to God in promoting the salvation of sinners?

RKV. DAVID STONER. 133

I iiii^lit as v.d! ask, \Vliat is a straw, or a bubble, or
a butterfly, when compared with an empire? May
(i< •<! help you and me to keep the right object in
view, ;i!i(! to pursue it by the best moans! — Brrun-
wcll's Lite has done much good in this neighbour
ho.,,1. Wliat a man of prayer and faith was he ! Is
it possible to attain the same intimacy and power
with God that In- enjoyed ? I believe it is, if we are
willing to pay the same price for it. He lived per
petually in the spirit of sacrifice. A great deal, I
find from my own experience, is implied in being
willing to receive salvation on Christ's own terms.
I wish to enjoy his perfect love ; but I often wish to
have other things at the same time, that are incon
sistent with it. This is one reason why I do not
receive it. Pray for me, that I may in all things
subdue my natural timidity. This has robbed me of
tliou-ands of blessings. Sometimes I am ready to
think, had I such an easy, open, cheerful, free tem
per as Mr. Ilanuell, or some other men that I know,
how much easier would it be for me to reprove sin,
to introduce spiritual conversation, to visit the sick
and poor, &c. But I know that to murmur is im
pious. I thank God, I tliink I become less rusty
and reserved every year; and if I could but get the
whole mind that \\as in Cliri-t, this would be the
greatest n-M-tant to me. May the Lord wholly
sanctity my -oul !

" \\fdiicxiay, January :>d. ]s-_M. I |Kive entered
on a new year. The last year, on the whole, uas
cei tuinly the best of my life. Praise the Lord, O my
H>dl <io.l has blessed me in my own soul, in my

134 MEMOlItS OF THE

family, and in my labours. All glory to liini ! 1
have entered on this year with a desire to live more
to him. I feel my soul at full stretch for all his
fulness.

"Tuesday, 23d. Praise the Lord, I feel my soul alive.
My heart is going out after him. This morning,
while at the footstool of my Father's throne, I clearly
saw that I had been living for two objects, instead of
living for one alone. I have been striving to please
God, and to please self, instead of living only for God.
These two objects have occupied my attention, at
different times, throughout the day. This is one
reason why I have so often found the service of the
Lord a cross. Whilst I have been engaged in acts
of the Lord's service, I have been wishing they w «•
over, that I might again be pleasing my other mas
ter. Lord, forgive me ! Help me to live for thee
alone ! To this end, convince me that it is my duty
and privilege to do everything for thee, and to aim
at thy glory every minute of every day. Bless me
with divine recollected ness, that I may always re
member the objects for which I ought to live ; and
give me grace that I may resolutely do thy will in
spite of every obstruction. Lord, fully save my
soul ! "

In the beginning of this year, he had a dispute
with the players, of which he has given the fol
lowing account in a letter to Mr. Ilanwell, dated
February 28th : — " We have had in our town a
delightful hurly-burly with the players. A few
Sundays since, the play-house stumbled in my way,
as I was preaching in Bradford; and I honoured it

HF.V. DAVID STONKI!. 1.')-")

\vitli a tow foul lumn's, — such as, 'a nest of corrup
tion, a s\ !;:".;< ".rue of Satim, a Dnrung-mother for

barloN iiinl thieve-,' .See.. \c. During the following
week the Manager called ujton me, to iii([iiire why
I had abused his rt-specta/ile, moral, useful, and
authorized profession ; and to threaten me, that if I
•hired to >ay another word on that suhject, he would
hold me up to public contempt, and give me all the
punishment due to my unfjentlemanly conduct that the
law would afford, &c. We had a conversation of
some length. He defended the play-house in thea
tricals, and I objected in canonicals. He stormed
and roped several times, and swore that he would
come to the chapel on the following Sabbath, and, if
I dared to say a word against his profession, in plain
Yorkshire, I should catch it. I advised him by all
means to come. He went to consult an attorney, to
know what he could do; but met with no encou-
r;iLT< ment. He has also been to the Magi-tratt •* ;
but can find no relief. For a few days this affair
made ([iiite a hustle in the town. Reports said, that
the Manager was sending me a writ, — that I was
taken before the Magistrates, — that I was going to
gaol, &c., &c. To blow the spark into a flame, and
increase the bustle, I got fifteen hundred copies of a
paper printed, entitled, ' Why don't you go to the
play?' and circulated them through the town. It
was immediately reported that the Manager was
about to answer it; but he has been \\i-e enough to
be silent. On the following Sunday, Mr. l;.nt\\ i.-le
puid something on the suhject. Since then, tin- Vicar,
the Independent Minister, and Dr. Steadman, have

13(5 MEMOIRS OF THE

ulJ been talking against the theatre. We hrar thnt
the players can hardly subsist. One evening, it
is certain, they did not perform, as they had only
seven present. And on the Manager's benefit-night,
they did not receive as much as paid expenses." —
It seems that the threat which Mr. Stoner had re
ceived, was partly executed. One of the comedians
composed a piece of poetry, and recited it in the
play-home. In this precious document, Mr. Stoner
is styled, " a fanatical cur, with more vengeance
than grace," — " an insolent cur, like the dog in the
manger," — " a bombastical elf;" — and his preach
ing is denominated, " hypocritical canting." In
these courtly expressions consist all the wit and all
the poetry of this marvellous piece. The player-i
had mistaken their man ; and their feeble efforts to
expose him to contempt would doubtless have ex
cited his mirth, if that had not been subdued by a
feeling of pity for their grovelling principles and
mental imbecility. His opposition to them appears
to have been successful. They returned to the town
two or three of the following winters; but, not find
ing themselves able to establish an interest, they at
length abandoned the place. The building which
they occupied is now appropriated to other u-

"The work," he adds, in (he same letter, "is
going on tolerably in our Circuit. There is a
M \ival of the spirit of hearing, and this has led to
ilie conviction and conversion of a few scores of souls.
1 hope to see a mighty and a general shower. And
1 trust we shall have a good increase tliis year, botli
in our Circuit and throughout the Connexion iil

r.KV. :i \\ i ,) s

Inrge.— ' Our fathers, where are they .' and the l'n<-
phets, tin tlicy Hv«: for ever." Your old friend, Mr.
Sanuii'l Taylor, is gone home. \Ve hear tliat .Mr.
(iates too is dead. Death break* in upon u«. May
:iake \oii and me ready ! — lu-memher me at
tlic throne of grace. 1'ray t'or me, that I may be
Milled with all the fruits of righteOUSIMH,' and ren
dered useful in the church!" In this letter, he
mention* H projeet wliieli he had indulged, of eoin-
po~in- a little liook, eontainiiii; '• nint^, or advice to
the yun-." A small portion of this he appear* to
ha\e written ; and it is a matter of regret that he
iirvrr executed hi* intention. Such a work, from one
of his judgment and pi'-ty, -and one too who had heen
early accustomed to the tuition of youth, — would un
doubtedly have proved both acceptable and useful.

'•Wednesday, MayJd. ' I am oppressed: under
take for me !' \Vhat must I do.' To whom can I
fo, but to my (iod .' lie has the words of endless
life! O my .lesiis, give me the power to deny self,
and Jive to thee !

"Thursday, September 'JOth. What is now the
state of my mind .' Do I now enjoy an interest in
Christ.' Am I a child of (iod .' It is su^estcd, that
I have not repentid enough for my past unfaithful-
To this I answer, My acceptance \\ith (iod
•.ot depend on the t/ci/ri'f of my repentance. It
is -uir-'e-tPil, that 1 have been ^uilt\ of many imper
fections, oini~Mi(ns Of duty, sin*. iVc. To this I an
swer, This alone cannot hinder me from being a child
of (iod. Do 1 now feel willing to -.11 all .' Do I
hate gin7 Am 1 resohed, by ilu- grace of (iod, to
v 8

138 MJ.MOIRS OF THE

avoid it? I am. I do hate sin. I feel I hate it
more than I did some time since. I feel willing, as
far as I know myself, to sell all, so that I may win
Christ. I am conscious that I am a sinner ; that I
have been ' the chief of sinners ; ' but I hate my sins.
I come to Christ. I know ' he loved me, and gave
himself for me.' He is able and willing to save. I
trust in him. I depend on him. I give myself to
him. I take him as my Saviour. I call him mine.
I call myself his. I feel a considerable degree of
delight in prayer, in reading his word, in spiritual
conversation. I can often, in some measure, keep
my mind recollected ; and I feel a desire for the
prosperity of Zion. But O what a wicked heart 1
have ! Self-denial I am greatly deficient in. I can
sit for hours reading and receiving fresh notion-;,
and neglect prayer, visiting the sick, &c. I resolve,
by the grace of God helping me, to lay down any
book instantly when I feel that it is gaining an
ascendancy over me. Lord, help !

"Friday, 21st. I foel that I am the Lord's. And
since he is mine, and I am his, what can I want
beside? I only want to be unreservedly his. At
prayer, and in reading the word, I am guilty of
wandering thoughts ; and what is still worse, 1 do
not fed enough on account of such wandering.
When I have members to cross out, I am sorry ; but
I fear the principal cause of my sorrow is, that we
have our numbers in this Circuit reduced : so, on the
contrary, when we receive new members. I want
my heart entirely njre\\ing: it is ' deceit!'' il above
u!l things!'

UKV. DAN I II MONKH. 18!)

il Saturday, -2-2<\. Last night, in secret prayer,
my In art was drawn out in fervency ; but how soon
do I forget till again I My heart starts aside like a
broken bow. I walk, and talk, and read, and some
times forget God. O \ what an evil heart of un
belief! ' Create in me a clean heart !'

" Monday, 24th. Yesterday, on the whole, I had
a good day. In going to Low-Moor in the morning,
I had a strong conflict about reproving Sabbath-
lircakci>. Some I passed by, and said nothing; but
at last I got courage, and reproved many. Though
I \\iis laughed at, and ridiculed, I felt unutterable
sweetness, especially when I read these words in the
lesson, ' Rejoicing that they were counted worthy to
suffer shame tor his name.' In the evening, being
in company, I lost much spirituality by wishy-washy
conversation, and grieved myself by an unguarded
t \]>iv-fion. Lord, help me! My trust is in thee !
Thou art my helper! — I finished reading the Hev.
Henry Martyn's Life this morning. What a worm
am 1, compared with that giant!

" Wednesday, 'Jnth. The Lord still preserves my
soul alive. Praise to his name ! I seek this perfect
love, yet cannot receive it. I feel I am ' growing in
grace.' I feel more willing to be anything or no
thing. But I am far from being what I ought to
be. I want the love of Christ to constrain me to
' pray without cea-in^, to rejoice evermore,' to live
in the spirit of sacriiice, to lose my brethren and all
men for Christ's sake. () uive me tin- ronttrninimj
love! At the five o'clock meeting thU morning, 1
expected, but received not.

1-J.O M f-.MOIHS OK THK

"Thursday, 27fh. ThU morning I did not feel
that spirituality of mind, that intenseness of de>ire,
which I liave felt ; but in prayer my strength was
renewed. My evil heart of unbelief is prone to leave
my God. I sometimes detect its pride, and seHi-h-
ness, and enmity. &c. Yesterday, Satan tempted
me to neglect a cross that was laid before- me, —
visiting the sick ; and for a moment I felt in a yield
ing position: but, by the grace of God, I conquered.
This morning I have been rending, ' Likewise reckon
ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but
alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord ; ' and
I have been striving to reckon myself1' dead to sin,'
and ' alive to God.'

"Saturday, 29th. Went to Banker t 1,M night.
A few friends accompanied me. We had some pro
fitable conversation ; but how hard it is to talk and
not hurt one's self! Pride was a motive that in
duced me to say something, and I spoke evil of an
absent person. I feel an increasing hatred to pride.
I feel almost impatient to be saved from pride. I
want to feel that I am worse than the wor.-t, le-s tlmii
the least ; and th:it ( '//rixt is all in all. I fasted yi-ter-
day, and spent some time in prayer and selt'-examiua-
tiou ; but yet I cannot lay hold on this perfect love.

" Monday, October 1st. T had a pretty good day
at, Ilorton ye-tenlay. A friend told me that I -< t
the standard of Christian perfection too high. I
thiuk not. However, I must examine my Bible. I
felt envy and pride strongly stirring last ni^ht. As
the watchman watcheth for the morning, so is my
soul \\aiting for the fulness of love."

. DAVID STUM. It. \4 \

Of tin1 lomeisition \\hic'li In- liii'l with the friend
aho\t -noted, on tlic subject dt' Christian perfection,
he gives u more detailed account in a letter to Mr.
Hanwell, of the same date : — " I was yesterday
preaching from Matt. v. 8 : ' Blessed are the pure in
heart : for they shall see God ! ' One of my hearers,
a very sensible man, thinks that I set the standard
of Christian purity too high ; higher than the Bible,
Messrs. Wesley and Fletcher, and experience set it.
I contended, for instance, that in a justified person,
on certain occasions, anger may be felt rising in the
heart ; yet, by the grace of God, he keeps it down :
but that in a person wholly sanctified, every remnant
ff tin- disfxisifinn to anger is destroyed, and that, in
the greate-t provocations, his mind is easy, unruffled,
and calm. He may feel grieved and sorry on ac
count of the sins of those that provoke him, but no
anger ; and this (j riff of mind is what is meant by
holy anger: 'Be ye angry, and sin not.' 'He
looked round on them with tuiyi-r, be -ing yrifced for
the hardnos of their hearts.' But iny friend rea-
Nnieil, that a man, in the highest state of-: race, must
•mething ri.-ing in his mind at times «<>me
e of an evil temper; otherwise, he could have
no temptation, and then- would be n., possihiiify of
his falling. In answer to this, I appealed to the
experience of Christ;— he had no e\il temper, and
yet lie was tempted : and to that of At/am ;- he was
entirely holy, and yet he \\as tempted, and fell. He
then referred to a letter of Mr. Wesle\'s, (Works,
vol. xii., p. -J71.) which you may read, where he men
tions iU-jiulijfil :,n/. and an rjrrss of uff'fction, &c.

I 4'2 MIC .MO] IIS OF Till;

I still contended, that those tempers mentioned by
Mr. Wesley were not sinful, — that they did not
prove any want of perfect love, but rather arose from
an excess of it, — that they originated in a want of
knowledge, and not in a want of holiness. But, like
most disputants, we ended where we began. I am
still of the same mind. For this blessing of spiritual
purity I am seeking; and I wish not to throw any
hinderance in my own way, or in the way of others,
by setting the mark too high. Give me your
thoughts." — In this debate, as in most others, what
seems to have been chiefly wanting, was a proper
explanation or adjustment of terms. Very possibly,
too, Mr. Stoner, in the ardour of his zeal, and the
energy of his desires, might sometimes use language
scarcely consistent with the frailties of our present
mortal condition.

In the letter which has furnished the above extract,
he has some useful observations on preaching to tin
unconverted : " Have you seen the Rev. W. Ward'
' Farewell Letters?' If you have not, and can bor
row them for sixpence, borrow them ; or, if you
want a fund of Missionary speeches, buy them. In
those letters, there is one subject, which has often
occupied my attention, urged, I think, to the ex
treme ; namely, preaching to the unconi-crteil. Mr.
Ward pleads that every church ought to support an
evangelist, whether it can support a pastor besu\c* or
not; — that the converted will find what they need of
instruction, &c., in the other means of grace, if the
pulpit is employed wholly in addiv>-e> to the uncon
verted. Now, this is certainly going to i«i extreme.

TIKV. DAVID STONKR. 1-1 :{

Tin bulk of tlic Cliri-ti:ii) clujrcli has indeed wan
dered very f;ir into the opposite extreme, of confining
pu!)lic discourses to tin- religions professor; and,
there)', >iv. it is no nrarvel, if Mr. Ward, considering
his character and circumstances, has overstepped
tlie line on the other ,-ide. This is a subject that I
could ln\e to see, or hear, ably discussed. I have
•:no thoughts of writing u short piece for tlu>
Mat:a/iiie, for the purpose of exciting a discussion ;
- the purpoit of which piece should be, to inquire
how lav^e a part of our public discourses should be
addre-ed to the unconverted. I think at least one
Aojfofoar texts and sermons should lead that way.
There are 1'reachers who very seldom deliver a ser
mon on sin, or death, or hell, or judgment, or the
law, or n pentaiwe, or the threatening*, or anything
that is awful and terrible. I have remarked, that
those Preachers are generally the most useful, who
give the greatest prominence in their sermons to

-ubjects: and that, as men advance in life, they
are apt to dwell less on such topics. Dr. Watt-
'I never knew but one person, in the whole course
of my ministry, who acknowledged that the first
motions of religion in his own hi :irt arose from a
sense of the goodness of God. But I think all bo-
sides, who have ci.ine within my notice, have rather

lirsf awakened by the passion of fear to flee
from the wrath to come.' I intend, v. hen I have an
opportunity. T-. hear Mr. Kntwisle's opinion on tliiM-
subjects. Now. 'jive me your animadversions or
illustrations."

"Tuesday, -_>:ld. Since I wrote here la-t. I ha\»;

144 Mr.MOIUS OK THE

had a severe attack of fever ; but the Lord, in an
swer to the prayers of his people, has rebuked the
disorder, and restored me. I am afraid I have
gained nothing by this affliction. I felt my mind
dissipated, and I was interrupted in my usual pro
ceedings. But I again enjoy the drawings of the
Spirit. Last night, while Mr. Entwisle was preach
ing, my soul was greatly blessed.

•'Wednesday, 31st. The Lord occasionally fet
ters me with bad times in preaching, or I should wax
fat and kick. The two last evenings I have f< It as
if almost left to myself in preaching. Lord, humble
me, and show me what is in my heart! I have had
a pretty good time this morning at the five o'clock
meeting. ' Revive thy work ! '

" Sunday, November 4th. I had a blessed meet
ing last night. The Lord is visiting us again. My
soul is alive. I feel more power with God. May he
fill me, and use me for his glory this day !

" Friday, 9th. My soul is still seeking for perfect
liberty. O when will the day of freedom arrive ?
Come, Lord Jesus!

" Monday, 12th. I want two great blessing* :
first, my soul filling with love ; and, secondly, tin-
abiding witness that I am fully sanctified. Yesterday
I saw one of Bishop Beveridge's resolutions, which
I should like to act upon. ' I will not speak much,
lest I should speak too much; and I will not speak
at all unless I can speak to purpose.' I feel I am
'^rowing in grace.' I have more power to deny
in \self, to pray cun-tuntly, and to live to God. But
vet I am tar, verv tar behind.

RKV. DAVID STONF.H. 14i)

"Tuesday, -21)111. Glory be to God! Glory be
to(md! Tliis morning I have been able to draw
\ery near tin- throne. I brought the promise and
':i<xl in tlic baud of faith. I gave up all to God.
hold of Christ. I remembered Mr. Fletcher's
words, ' that it is better to be condemned for be
lieving wrong, than for not believing at all.' I
therefore believed that Christ was wholly mine, and
that I wns wholly his; and I felt a calm and sweet-
ii iny inmost soul. In reading, I met with the
>_re, ' He cannot deny himself;' and these words
came to my mind, ' According to thy faith it shall
lie done to thee.' Well, then, I am fully the Lord's,
and the Lord is fully mine. G lory be to God ! Now
my Lord, ui\e me power to live a moment at once,
and that, moment simply looking to Jesus !

" Friday, 23d. Yesterday, I enjoyed, on the
whole, a pretty good day. I could, in some degree,
keep my mind fixed. But in the evening I had an
awkward affair to examine. One of our members is
accused of acting improperly ; and I am afraid the
accusation is too true. As I had this to hear before
M'nir. it deadened my soul when I had to Stand
np. I am almost ready to say, The more I know of
the professing church, the less I see to approve. But
let me look to my own heart and life, and I may
say, with the greatest propriety, The more I know
of (hem, the less I must approve. The devil pursues
me throughout the day with horrid temptation ; and
I am sometimes afraid that, for a moment, I am off
my guard, and indulge temptations. But the Lord
knows my heart. He knows that I hate sin, and
o

146 MF.MO1KS OF THE

that 1 wish to be wholly his. I was up this morning
at half-past five, and was on my knees about an
hour ; but, notwithstanding my prayers, 5cc., I ffc\
as it' I could not get off the spot ; nay, sometimes I
think I am losing, instead of gaining.

"Saturday, 24th. I had a good time at Bankfoot
last night. In urging perfect love, I tasted a drop
myself; and likewise at prayer before I went to the
pulpit. This morning I prayed as usual, but I did
not get that nearness to the throne I wish for. I
feel constantly in danger of having my mind dissi
pated from the centre, even by sermons, good books,
&c. ' Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly ! '

"Wednesday, 28th. This morning I enjoy peace
within. Yet I do not feel that burning, earnest,
restless desire for more love, and for the salvation of
souls, for which I long. Praise the Lord, I have
more power to live to him, and love him, and do his
will, than I had. Keep me, my Lord, keep me ! I
met two classes last night that are decreasing. O
how discouraging ! Lord, undertake for us !

" Friday, 30th. I yesterday felt all my old list-
lessness creeping over me, so that this morning I
had little heart to pray. But, by the help of the
Lord, I got pretty near the throne, and I now feel
my soul greatly quickened. Lord, keep me alive!

" Saturday, December 1st. I had a pretty good
day yesterday. Took tea at a friend's, and had a
spiritual visit. I have endeavoured of late, where I
could do it, to hold a sort of class-meeting after tea
at these little parties, and have found the advantage
of it.

HKV. DAVID STOMEK. 147

" Wednesday, 5th. At the five o'clock meeting
this morning, my soul was quickened and blessed.
And I had great need of it. On Sunday I had a
good day, but was sorely harassed with temptation
in the evening, before preaching, with doubts and
tlint I -hould not get through ; and afterwards,
with the thought, what a good sermon I had preached.
O, I want this perfect love. Then I should feel more
love to prayer, to the word, and to the work of the
Lord. Sometimes I feel a backwardness to prayer.
I feel a call to pray, nnd then something suggests,
' Wait till thou hast done such a thing.' But I feel
determined always to stop, if I can, and there and
then to pray.

"Thursday, Oth. O the necessity of being faithful
with the sick ! I \v;i8 called this day to see a poor
living man. lie could hardly speak, and seemed as
ignorant of salvation as a post. I talked and prayed
with him, and he died in the course of an hour.
' Deliver me from blood-guiltiness, O God, thou God
of my salvation ! '"

At this time his excellent mother was labouring
under the ravages of a cancer in the breast, which in
the end terminated her valuable life. She was now
from home, for the benefit of medical advice. To
her he writes on the fifth of this month, in the fol
lowing pious and affectionate terms : — " How com
fortable is the thought, that we are in the hands of
our Father ! ' Like as a father pitieth his children,
so the Lord pitieth them that tear him.' He is too
wise to do wrong, and too good to be unkind. All
his designs concerning them that love him are
o2

148 MEMOIRS OF THE

gracious and merciful ; and we should act just as lie
does, if we had as much knowledge as he has.
'Blessed are all they that trust in him.' — You he;:
an interest in our prayers. Be assured that, if my
poor prayers can do anything, you shall have them.
You were never for a day forgotten whilst you were
in health ; and much more do I feel for you, and
pray for you, now that the Lord has put you into the
furnace. But, remember, you are not put into the
fire to be consumed and destroyed ; but to be tried,
and purified, and made white. ' Tribulation worketh
patience ; and patience, experience ; and experience,
hope.' And these 'light afflictions, which are but
for a moment, are working out for you a far more
exceeding and eternal weight of glory.' — You must
strive, mother, to leave all Barwick concerns at Bar-
wick, and Bradford affairs at Bradford, and Dudley-
Hill* anxieties at Dudley-Hill, for the present. If
you are ever so anxious about the family, I do not
think it will add one mite of efficacy to the medicine^,
&c. The best way is to carry all our concerns and
care to Him who takes charge of the sparrows, and
hears the young ravens when they cry. 'The hairs
of our heads are all numbered ; ' and if God takt-s
notice of our very hairs, we are sure that so import
ant a thing as a cancer cannot escape his knowledge.
Yea, it is sent by him, and sent in mercy too. lie
says, ' What thou knowest not now, thou shalt know
hereafter.' Then,

* Where a brother of Mr. Stoner's had recently opened
a school.

IU.Y. DAVID STONKH. 149

' Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,

But trust him for his grace !
lichind a frowning Providence,
lie hides a smiling face.'

May the 'eternal God be your refuge, and under
neath be his everlasting arms !' May he 'fill you
with nil joy and peace in believing;' and after all
the storms of life are over, may he conduct us safely
to that land the inhabitant of which shall never say,
'I am sick;' and where God shall 'wipe away all
triirs from our eyes !' Amen, and Amen. So prays
your affectionate and sympathizing son."

•• Siitunlav, 'sth. Lord, help me now to examine
my In-art, and describe the state of my mind. Yes
terday, in reading the life of that excellent man.
Dr. Doddlidge, my soul was humbled, softened, and
quickened. I resolved, by God's grace, to begin
again. I feel greater delight in spiritual conversation,
and more power to deny myself of light reading and
unnecessary sleep, to visit the sick and poor, to cul
tivate spirituality of mind, and to maintain the spirit
of prayer, than I formerly did. For this I praise
tliee, O Got! ! But still, I do not eat and drink for
God's glory. I do not 'set I he Lord always before
me.' Sometimes there are long intervals in which I
am not engaged with God. I do not 'pray without
ceasing.' I do not 'for everything give thanks.'
I do not watch against idle thoughts sutl'u iently :
my secret devotions are often marred with wander
ings. I do not feel that relish for prayer ami for the
word which I ought to do. I am not so useful in my
o 3

1")0 MKMOIU.S OK THE

pul)lic labours, on three accounts, as I ought to be :
1. I do not follow up public preaching by pastoral
visits, and personal conversation. 2. I do not prny
before and after preaching for success, as I ought to
do. 3. I do not, as I ought, simply and solely rt-Iy
on the Holy Spirit, without whom all sermons are
vain. I often feel the risings of pride, and many
roots of bitterness. But what must I do? WhiilxT
can I go but to thee, my Saviour! ' Open thy anus,
and take me in !' — I resolve, by divine grace, 1. To
spend less time in sleep. 2. To spend more time on
my knees. 3. To guard more against wandering
thoughts, especially in my devotions. 4. To avoid
idle conversation. 5. To attend more to pastoral
visits. 6. To be more thankful. 7. To take some
text every morning for the occupation of my mind
at intervals. Lord, help me ! Thou knowest my
feebleness. These resolutions, like thousands before,
will be broken, if thou dost not help me. Now, lake
my heart! In my devotions this morning, I have
felt enlargement, and nearness in my intercessions,
and in reading the word.

" Monday, 10th. I had yesterday a pretty good
day. In my morning devotions, I felt a little
enlargement of heart. In going to Bingley, I was
enabled to keep my mind pretty well fixed on spi
ritual subjects. I was assaulted with some horrid
temptations, but cried to God. Tolerable liberty in
the morning: felt assaulted with pride afterwards.
Heard evil-speaking, and did not reprove it as I
should have done. Humbled myself before God for
my cowardice. Good time in the evening: tempted

RF.V. DAVID STOM-n. I '

of pride. Iii returning, I had not my mind properly

<••!. Tlii> morning liavi1 had my mind
dis.>ipated through different engagements, luit tclr
nearne-- tn the throne in prayer, and wish to live to
God. Lord, help me this dixy !

" Tuesday, llth. I felt yesterday anger and
peevishness still existing in my heart. I strove and
prayed against them. Yet I did not 'pray without
ceasing.' I wasted many intervals in wandering
imaginations. This morning I have i'elt a consider
able degree of nearness to the throne.

" Wednesday, 12th. At the prayer-meeting tliis
morning, I felt in earnest. ' I dare believe in Jesu's
name,' was the language of my heart. O for the
fulness of love! Saw a young man yesterday very
ill in body, but worse in mind. ' It is too late,' said
he : 'I have no hope. I cannot believe the Bible.
I have disbelieved tlie Bible. I have read the Bible
again and again, and done it only with the intention
of rinding faults in if,' &c. I endeavoured to reason
with him; but everything I could say he turned
against himself. I urged him to make a trial of
Jesus Christ, whether his word wns true or not. He
has been accounted a steady moral vomit: man, has
attended the church, and was not known to be a di*-
Ltli( \er. But now he thinks himself tc be the wor-t
sinner that ever lived.

•• Thursday, lUth. Much unwatchfulness had
brought deadlier into my soul ; hut in prayer this
morning, the fire u as kindled again. Lord, help me
t ' \\atch this day !

.:iday, IT'lii. Y.'-renl,i\ I \\ as a-^mlted with

1;V2 MEMOIRS OF THE

powerful temptation ; but getting last night into an
agony of prayer, I, in a great measure, found deli
verance. This morning I got very near the throne.
I gave up all. I felt a fresh application of the blood
of Christ. I felt as if I was within a hair's breadth
of God's whole salvation ; but I cannot say I received
it. Still I feel my mind in perfect peace. O my
God, and my all ! be with me through this day !

" Wednesday, 19th. This morning I went to the
meeting, expecting to meet with Jesus. I felt fully
in earnest. I felt the spirit of agoni/.in<: prayer ;
but yet I could not lay hold. Lord, have mercy on
my soul ! Surely I shall not carry my old heart into
the new year. Praise the Lord, I feel more power
to deny self. I got hold of a bewitching book yes
terday ; but I felt that the tendency of it would be
to draw me away from God, and he enabled me to
deny self.

"Friday, 21st. The devil follows me hard with
horrid temptations, and I often fear that I do not
resist them with sufficient abhorrence. When I feel
them, I wish to start with alarm, us much as if I saw
the house on fire. — To have to preach to sleepy folks,
anil half-hearted folks, has a very damping, deaden
ing effect on my mind. <) that I could constantly
live on full stretch after God! I want a more spi-
ritual mind. On examining myself this morning, I
do not know that I have anything contrary to love
in my heart; but I want to be tilled with God. I
was much encouraged yesterday, while pleading the
words of St. John, ' This is the confidence that we
have in him, That if we ask anything according to

UKV. DAVID STONKR. I-':)

his will, he heareth us; and if we know tliut he hear
us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the
petitions that \ve desired of him.' To ask according
In hU \\ ill Ml i. >• to me to mean, to ask for all things
that are pleading to him, and to ask in an acceptable
manner. Now, I have asked for a clean heart ; and
I am as sure that this is according to his will, as that
I am alive : and I labour to ask in a manner pleasing
to him ; in humility, in earnestness, in the name of
Christ, in faith: and if I can thus ask, I know that
I have the petitions that I desired of him. O for the
power of faith ! "

To Mr. Ilamvell, under the date of December Q-Jd,
he writes : " You say, « I find it profitable to read a
portion of some pious work before private prayer.'
I have often done something of the same kind.
There is nothing I can n ad which produces so much
ell'ect on my mind, as religions biography; and I
ha\e found it beneficial to have some work of this
kind lying by me, that I may occasionally mingle a
or two of it among my other employments
through the day, in order to Miniulate myself to
gr< atiT earneMi.. - ;.nd diligence, and to render my
mind more spiritual.— I have of late moie than ever
seen the evil of idle di-cmirse; and yet, alas! too
often have I been betrayed into it. Hut I ought to
say kOO, to the jjory of di\ine nraee, that I have
been enabled more fully to keep a watch over my
tongue, than formerly : HIM! 1 ha\e felt the benefit of
it. I have been at M veral tea-panirs lately amon^
«••"»• rather.. of friends, \\h. re I ),a\e b, en the

chairman, so to fflttk. After tea, I have IK 1,| a sort

Io4 MEMUIKS OF TUB

of class-meeting ; and then got all the friends present
to pray ; and I have thus enjoyed some profitable
seasons. — I sometimes find it difficult to maintain a
regular course of self-denial. The flesh and the
devil struggle hard; but I hope to conquer. Help
me by your fervont prayers. When I review my
past life, I am ashamed and humbled ; and I grieve
that I cannot review it with more abhorrence, de-
testation, and self-loathing. I cannot find words
strong enough to express what I ought to feel on the
recollection of my ingratitude, disobedience, and
thousand sins. And yet, — would you believe it? — I
often have temptations to pride ; yea, such a tempta
tion have I had while I have been writing the last
two or three lines, — to be proud of my expressions
of humility. But with these views of myself, I do
not feel that self-annihilation, and that thankfulness
for the infinite mercy of my God, which I wish to do.
I am a riddle to myself. I possess a confidence in
Christ, as my Saviour ; yet O how little I love him !
I have a strong desire to enjoy the fulness of the
Gospel ; yet when I come to pray, O how often am
I pestered with wandering thoughts ! ' I hate myself,
and yet I love.' I love my Saviour, and yet I often
slight him. I pray for the Spirit, and yet I often
grieve the Spirit. ' O that I had wings like a dove !
for then would I fly away, and be at rest.' "

'• Saturday, December 2'2d. Praise the Lord ! I
have been examining myself this morning, and I do
not feel anything, that I know of, contrary to love.
While at prayer, these words in the morning lesson
seemed to suit my case : ' Sing and rejoice, O chuigh-

nr.v. DAVID STONER. 165

ter of Zion : for lo, I come, find I will dwell in the
midst of thec, saith the Lord. — Behold, I have caused
thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thce
with cli u:ge of raiment.' Surely it shall be done ! —
Come, Lord, and come quickly !

" Wednesday, -2Gth. Yesterday morning, at the
five o'clock meeting, I had a precious visit from the
Lord. In the forenoon, while preaching at Clayton,
I had a very good time. In the afternoon, at the
Missionary Meeting, my heart was melted within
me. But at tea-time my soul was wounded with
light conversation. Lord, have mercy on me !

" Thursday, 27th. In examining myself this morn
ing, I discovered many awful deficiencies. 1. The
Lord found me in bed, when I ought to have been
on my knee.-*, and at my work. 2. I did not devote
my first thoughts to him. 3. I have suffered roving
imaginations to engage my mind while reading the
word, and on my knees. 4. I have been formal in
my family duties. 5. I have not prayed with my
wife, as I intend to do. 6. I do not mourn over sin,
as I ought to do. 7. I do not ' pray without ceasing.'
8. I do not 'in everything give thanks.' 9. I do
not live in the recollection of God's presence. 10.
I'nlielief, worldly-mindedness, envy, and self-will,
are things that have often conquered me. 11. I
have spoken many idle words. 12. I do not eat and
drink for the glory of God. \-\. I do not pray every
hour for a revival. I was grieved that I did not feel
more grief. I endeavoured to confess my sins, and
humble myself; and again I laid hold on Christ. I
resolve, by God's help, to do better. M rs. Fletcher's

15G MEMOIRS OF TUT.

words suited me. Once she hesitated to say, that
die was 'the chief of sinners.' I have often felt tin
Kime hesitation. But I thank my Lord, I am get
ting lower thoughts of myself. Sink down, my soul !
Break, my stony heart ! Flow, my eyes, with peni
tential tears !

" Wednesday, January 2d, 182-2. What a mercy
that I see a new yeur ! The last has been marked,
every moment of it, with loving-kindness. I closed
the year at Horton chapel ; and a precious meeting
we had. I gave myself to God. In private prayer
this morning, I have got a little nearer the throne.
I see there is a full salvation through Christ for me.
Christ is mine ; and therefore this salvation is mine.
I claim it, and I urge my claim. If I had an estate
that was possessed by some usurper, I should still
call it mine ; and I should urge my claims till ;
put in possession. So here I hold. I have not the
full possession ; but it is mine. O for faith ! O for
power !

" Friday, 4th. This is the day of the quarterly
fast. Lord, pour upon me the spirit of prayer, of
deep humiliation, and of faith. I intend to devote
the greater part of this day to meditation, self-
examination, reading the word, prayer, and praise.
Let me begin with self-examination, and a confes
sion of my sins to God." He then enters into a
minute and severe investigation of his tempers,
words, and actions, during his past life ; after wlm-h
he proceeds thus : — " And of all this wickedness have
I been guilty, notwithstanding the advantages I have
enjoyed. In my earliest days, my parents in-

FIF.V. DA VI II STONKR. IS)

strurted me, chastised me, n'straine<l UK-, brooght
me up in attendance <>n the means of grace. God
called me in early life to seek him. I hud 'lino
upon line, precept upon precept.' In my situations,
I had every spiritual advantage; and yet I have been
thus wicked. I have sinned against the mercy of
•i her, the blood of the Son, the strivings of the
Spirit, the remonstrances of my own conscience, the
convictions of my own mind. I have sinned against
thee, O my God, against my own body and soul,
against my fellow-creatures, against the law, and
-t the Gospel, against light and knowledge. I
li;i\e sinned iii action, in thought, in word, in
motive, in desire. My sins are more numerous than
the hairs on my head; numberless as the sands on
t-dbora ; infinitely aggravated ! What must I
do? O my heart, break into pieces! Ye tears of
contrition, flow! I would mourn before the Lord.
1 would mourn that I mourn so little. I would re
pent of my repentance. O my Lord ! whatever
thou givest or withholdest beside, give me a ' broken
and a contrite heart ! ' Give me true repentance, and
help me to loathe myself on account of my sins!
Help me to 'repent as in dust and ashes!' I am
the worst of sinners. I am the very chief of rebels.
Lord, humble my soul. All these sins I have com
mitted, notwithstanding the obligations under which
I have been laid, the favours with which I have been
l.Ie-M-d, the vows that I have made, the covenants
into which I have entered, the manifestations of love
that I have had, and the answers to prayer that I
have often received ! Lord, be merciful to me a

r

58 MEMOIRS OF THE

sinner! Whither can I go?— To the Saviour! Christ
has died, — he has died for me ! He assumed our
nature ; was born in a stable, and laid in a manger ;
and he rested his infant head on hay, his dying head
on thorns : his cradle was the manger, and the cross
his death-bed. Three-and-thirty years of suffering
and pain did he endure for me, — for my sins! I
come to the door of mercy. Here I'll knock, I'll
wait, I'll beg. If I stay away, I am undone : if I
come, at the worst I am but undone ! But I shall
not be cast out. God has commanded ine to come.
Lord, I eome. If thou wert to send me to hell, it
would be all just. But in the hand of faith, I bring
the blood, the blood ! I am a sinner ; but here is
the blood! Justice says, 'Cut him down;' but
here is the blood ! Satan says, ' He belongs to me ; '
but here is the blood ! This blood is mine ; this Sa
viour is mine. I look to him. I see him weeping,
bleeding, dying for me. Here is love ! Here is
love !

' Love so amazing, so divine.

Demands my life, my soul, my all !'

Lord, take all ! my body, soul, time, family, pro
perty, my all ! Do with me what thou wilt ; put me
where thou wilt ; use me as thou wilt : only let thy
name be glorified, and let my soul be filled with love.
I am thine, and thou art mine. What can I want
beside ? Glory be to God ! I roll all my sins on
Jesus, and take him as my ' wisdom, righteousness,
sanctification, and redemption.' Glory be to God !
I praise him for my parents, senses, food, raiinent,
habitation, family mercies, bodily and spiritual mer-

HKV. iJAVII) OTONKR. 15^

cic-; f'.ir tli.' deliverances he lias wrought out, tlie
promises lie has made, the answers to prayer, the
tgg lip has bestowed, the grace lie has given ;
for the merries of the past year, and the comforts of
this new year. Glory be to God ! But still I want
more grace. I want a clean heart, a right spirit, a
stayed mind. I want his perfect love. All I want
is included in love, perfect love. And he says, ' Only
believe ; all things are possible to him that believer li.'
Glory be to God, I do believe. I believe this salva
tion h provided for me, held out to me ; I lay claim
to it as mine ! It is mine, for Christ is mine. I urge
my claim. I want to feel the possession of it. I
want to feel all peace, all calm, all love. 'Come,
Lord Jesus, come quickly!' — Praise the Lurd, I
have had two good prayer-meetings. The pre.senco
of the Lord was among us, softening and melting my
heart. I hope we shall see still betrer days. Two
such prayer-meetings we had before the last revival.
During the past quarter, we buve lost many wan
derers. O may the Lord in mercy reclaim them !
P raise the Lord! Nearly seven hours in succession
I have spent on my knees, and have felt it good to
draw near to God. Lord, help me to live praying,
v. '.itching, believing, loving, obeying; or I shall
receive no benefit.

" Saturday, 6th. I had indeed a good day yes
terday ; and this morning, while on my kip'es. I had
a precious \i-it from above. I had been considering
tin' words of Christ, ' What things soever ye desire,
when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye
shall huve them.' Now I a-k for a clean heart. I
r 2

100 MLMOIUS OF THE

know it is according to the \\ill of God, and I ask in
the name of Christ.

" Monday, 7th. Yesterday, upon the whole, I hud
a good day. I had an opportunity of renewing my
covenant with God ; and I think I freely gave up all.
This morning I have had particular power to plead
and to believe for a clean heart. The blessing is
mine. I now believe. But O, I want the fulness !
Lord, help me to live to thee !

" Wednesday, Oth. Last night we had a good
watch-night at Clayton-Heights, arid this morning
a good meeting. But how is it that we do not re
ceive the mighty baptism for which we pray ? Lord,
help us to believe. I feel faith in my God. I am
determined 'obstinately' to believe, as Mr. Fletcher
has it. Christ is mine, and I believe I have a cl< an
heart : but I want a clearer witness of it. O for a
launch out into the deep!

"Friday, llth. Last night I was wounded. 1
was suddenly attacked with very bitter language by
a member of our society, and for a minute I did not
recollect myself. I felt pride stir, and spake unad
visedly with my lips. O what a Constant need of
watching unto prayer !

"Saturday, 12th. Yesterday I went to a<k par
don of the peiv-mi to whom I hail spoken r.'.-hly, ami
to tell him I had not spoken advisedly. Lord,
help me !

"Sunday, 13th. Praise the Lord, I i'eel Iain his.

I have given myself fully to him, and taken him as

my whole Saviour. While reading and praying

lay, I felt greater power to lay hold. This

UT1V. DAVID STONER. 161

sentence \\;i> nj)ji!ic(l : ' It shall be done to you
according to your faith.' A ray of light seemed to
rhine on the way of faith; and I cried out, 'Lord,
I believe.' I feel that my soul lays hold on the full
salvation of God ; and I believe, yea, I will believe,
that it is mine. And this promi-e follows me : 'The
Lord whom ye seek shall suddenly come to his
temple.' This sentence of Mr. Fletcher penetrated
my mind: 'Sink or swim, the believer must learn
to plunge himself into the ocean of infinite truth
and love.1 Glory be to God! I do love him; I
will love him. Lord, help me every moment. — Last
night we had a pood meeting. One woman was
sit at liberty; two others received comfort; and
a fourth struggled, but did not obtain. Lord, ride
on !

"Saturday, 10th. Yesterday morning I was en
abled to get near the throne, and to plead for the
fulness of love. I laboured to believe in Christ, and
I did believe. My language was, ' Lord, I belie re
tin's full salvation is mine; but I want to feel it.'
Through the day, in a degree, I was in a praying
frame. In the evening, after tea at Mrs. Pulmun's,
a few of us engaged in prayer. While Mrs. Pulman
was praying, the power of the Lord came down, and
suictly rested on my soul. I jjave up all; I re
ceived all. I felt unutterable sweetness and joy to
fill my soul. The Lord took full possession of my
heart. Glory be to God ! Glory be to God ! I now
feel a sweet culm, and a breathing after the Lord.
Satan tells me it is not sanctification. He says, I
must not call it sanctih'ration. I answer, ' What-
r a

lfi'2 MKMOIRS OF TIIK

ever it is, it is love, and ponce, and heaven, and joy.
Lord, help me to walk in the light !

"Tuesday, 22d. I scarcely know what state I am
in at present. My opinion is, that I have a low
degree of perfect love, viz., a clean heart. I do not
know that I have felt any wrong temper rising in
my heart since last Friday evening. I have felt
many temptations ; and sometimes it is difficult to
say what springs from nature, and what from Satan.
I have felt many short-comings. I cannot say that
I have 'prayed without ceasing, rejoiced evermore,
and in everything given thanks.' I have not habi
tually, every moment, had reference to the immediate
presence of God. I am also conscious of many use
less thoughts and words. I have, therefore, con
stantly to say,

' Every moment, Lord, 1 need
The merit of thy death.'

I long to feel more fully given up to God. I Cer
tainly have greater power to pray, and praise, and
believe habitually; but I want to feel that I am tilled
with that constraining love of Christ which will lead
me every moment to devote all to God. I have
much neglected the duties of visiting the sick and
poor, &e. I resolve, for the present, to devote p.\o
hours on each of four days in the week, that is, eight
hours in the week, to visiting the flock, the sick, the
p.vir, &c., exclusively of visiting so called. I praise
the Lord for some of our tea-parties latch. \\'t
have enjoyed the presence of the Lord. But O
\\hat a dwarf am I !

HKV. DAVID STONKH. 103

' Vet when melted in the flame

Of love, this shall be all my pleu- -
1 the chief of sinners am,
But Jesus died for me !'

Lord, suffer me not to deceive myself! Let me not
sup] •(>•*; tlint I have a clean heart, and that I am
thine, if it is not so. I would be the Lord's. If I
have a desire, it is to be filled with the love of God.''
February 7th, he writes to his mother : " Dear
mother, trust in the Lord, and simply look to Jesus,
for help and comfort. Obstinately believe that he is
your Saviour, and that he will cause, ' all things' to
' work together lor your good.' Do not suppose.
that we forget you in our prayers. And besides our
feeble petitions, millions of prayers ascend up every
week for the afflicted. The people of the Lord
seldom meet together, but they prny for the sick :
and, more tliun all. Jesus Christ prays tor you ; and
his intercessi.-ns will prevail. May the ' eterrml God
be your refuse.' your support, and your deliverer!
After lie has tri>-d you awhile, may he hrintryou hack
to your family in health, to be more useful, holy, and
happy, for a lonir s, ries of years; until at last, like
a shock of corn ripe for the garner, you are gathered

home in peace ! "

In a letter to Mr. Ifanwell, dated the 2(>th of the
same month, ho mentions one of those incidents
which illustrate the peculiar power and ener-ry of
his mini-try at this period. " Sunday before last. I
: Teaching at a place in our Circuit, called
Clay ton- Heights, and felt considerable, lib. rt\ and

104 MEMOIRS OF THE

enlargement. As I was urging tlie service of the
Lord upon my hearer?, and inquiring who would
enter into it, a man in the congregation cried out
that he would. His word pierced like a sword to the
hearts of many, so that some hundreds, I suppose,
burst immediately into tears. I scarcely ever saw a
congregation so affected ; and I hear that many
began to meet in class during the past week. If the
Lord work, who shall hinder? May he ' ride on till
all are subdued ! ' " — At the conclusion of this letter,
he says, " On Tuesday evening, I was preaching to
n small congregation, in which was an old man, who
suddenly died next morning. If I had foreseen this,
should I not have been more earnest in preaching
to him 1 And ought not this reflection n I ways to
accompany us, ' Perhaps I am preaching my last
sermon, or some one here is listening to his last
warning 1 ' '

" During the three years," he afterwards remarks
in his diary, "which I spent at Bradford, I received
blessings innumerable. Eternity will be too short
to tell their value. I had three years of peace and
prosperity. I had the happiness of labouring with
two of the excellent of the earth, Messrs. Turton and
Kntwisle. God gave me the hearts of the people in
a remarkable degree. It is not to be described how
they bore with me, and loved me; — nor the affection
I felt for them. I never thought my contracted,
prlfi-h, stubborn disposition capable of such feelings
us 1 ha\e had towards the Bradford societies. To
leave them was like rending my h;-art asunder."
lie gratefully records the increase of numbers, and

REV. DAVID STONKR. Mi.*>

offers a fervent prayer that "the Lord would keep
them t-rcry one ! " — The attachment of the Bradford
societies and congregations to Mr. Stoner was very
remarkable. For a long time after his departure,
hi-* name could not be publicly mentioned with ut
producing a powerful and visible emotion. In some
instances, there can be little doubt that this attach
ment was curried to an undue degree, and expressed
in an unguarded manner. So difficult is it, in the
»-\erciso of even the best affections towards each
other, to avoid inconsistencies and extremes.

The general habits of Mr. Stoner, during his re-i-
dence at Bradford, may be discovered from the
lengthened extracts which occupy many of the pr. -
reding ]>;i<_-vs. They were eminently of a self-denying
kind. It was his practice to fast, in whole or in
part, every Friday, and to spend not more than be
tween six and -even hours in sleep out of the twenty-
four. Perhaps, in the>e respects lie went to an
i \treme. His delicate constitution, and the wasting
labours in which he unsparingly engaged, seem to
ha\e required more refreshment and rcpo>e than he
would suffer him.-elf to indulge. By the goodness ot
(Jod, ho\\e\er, hi.s health, with a few excepting,
was good ; and he felt it to be his " meat and drink,"
his recreation and rest, to "do the will of his hui-
venly rather."

His fen en t desire for higher attainments in the
Christian life, and his attention to pulpit and pas
toral duties, did not render him unobservant of the
minuter obligations connected with his office. lie
was remarkably punctual and correct in everything.

1 ''0 MEMOIRS OF THE

" In attending to his work in all its branches," says
Mr. Turton, "lie was one of the most exact men I
ever knew ; never forgetting anything I requested
him to do, though mentioned to him for days, or
even weeks, previous to the time of doing it."
During a part of the time he spent at Bradford, he
filled the office of Local Secretary to the Wesleyan
Academy at Woodhouse-Grove ; the duties of which
he discharged with his wonted exactness and fidelity.
At this time he also began to insert in a book, kept
for the purpose, a brief record of his daily transac
tions, — a practice which he continued until within
a very short time of his death.

One thing ought not to pas?, in a review of his
labours at Bradford, without special notice ; — his deep
mid growing conviction of the necessity of divine in
fluence to produce any degree of ministerial success.
He attributed nothing to himself, and comparatively
little to the external means which he adopted. The
thought that he was the only man to promote the
interests of religion, and that the peculiar measures
which he used were the only suitable ones, seems
never to have entered his mind. He was fully satis
fied that the wintry cold of spiritual indifference
cannot be removed by the fires of mere human
excitement ; and that it is only when, in answer to
humble prayer, the vernal breath of heavenly in>pi-
ration is diffused, that the frost of human nature is
softened and thawed, — the copious flow of new life
poured forth, — and the wild, desolate before and
ilreary, clad with new beauties, blooming "as the
rose," and flourishing "like the garden of the Lord "

UEV. DAVID STONKK. 1C>7

CHAPTER VII.

He contemplatet a removal to Nt-wriistlc-upon-Tyne, but, for
tpecial reasons, is appointed to the Birstal Circuit — His
unabated zeal and fidelity in that station — He enters upon
it with a solemn dedication of himself to God — Extracts
from his diary and correspondence — The death of his
mother — His diary closes with a satisfactory testimony of
his establishment in the Divine life — The fervency of his
prayers, whilst at Birstal, for the prosperity of religion —
Rules for prayer-meetings — Notice of the domestic afflic
tions with which he now began to be visited.

EIGHT years had now elapsed since Mr. Stoner
received his appointment at Holmfirth. During this
period, his successive stations had been confined to
one small section of the West Riding of Yorkshire,
abounding in population, and remarkable for the
influence of Methodism, but not extending over a
larger tract of country than is occupied by many
single Circuits in other parts of the Wesleyan Con
nexion. To his most judicious friends it appeared
desirable that he should remove to a greater distance.
If there were no danger of his contracting limited
views and local prejudices from a lengthened resi
dence in the same neighbourhood, it was deemed
proper that one so admirably qualified tor ministerial

108 MV.MOIRS OF TIIK

usefulness, should move in other circles, and bestow
the benefit of his valuable labours on other people.

Strongly as he was attached to the well-known
scenes of his early exertions and success, he advanced
no objection to such a removal ; and on receiving an
invitation from Newcastle-upon-Tyne, he consented,
in submission to the openings of Providence, and the
decision of the approaching Conference, to toil for a
season in that part of the common field. So far as
human judgment can pronounce, his talents would
have been gratefully appreciated in that old and im
portant Methodist station, and his zealous endea
vours, aided by the blessing of God, have issued in a
I'lrge portion of their wonted success. But the wishes
of the Newcastle societies were not gratified. The
Conference of 18'22, humanely considering the de
clining state of his mother's health, and attending to
the peculiar circumstances and wants of the Bir-tal
Circuit, appointed him to that contiguous and retired
spot. Here, in conjunction, first with the Rev. John
Mercer, and afterwards with the venerable John
Nelson, who has also closed his honoured career of
zeal and usefulness, he spent two years of peace and
prosperity.

In this situation his public duties were not of quite
so trying a description as they bed been in his two
preceding Circuits. The chapels were comparatively
small, and the work easy. In some this might have
produced a relaxation of effort; for human nature
loves the indulgences of ease. But Mr. Stoner was
governed by high and inflexible principle. Here,
therefore, he laboured in prayer, in private study.

UKV. DAVID STONKR. ll'1.'

mid in the c\eeiiiu n of his ministerial offices, with
unabated :'i • '"iir and diligence. The effect of his
fidelity irai \Mhle in his public ministrations. Often
\va- ili-' careless sinner arrested and alarmed, — the
nt consolel, — the Christian quickened and
cditiei!, — and the ealli >u« disbeliever agitated by new
emotions which he, perhaps, disdained to acknow
ledge, but was eompellel to feel.

No sooner was Mr. Stoner settled at Birstal, than
he renewed the dedication of himself to God in
the following words: — "Saturday, September 7th.
HIT , my Lord, on my knees, I enter into a solemn
covenant with thee : giving my whole self to thee ;
promising, through thy grace, to be entirely thine;
submitting to thy disposal ; and claiming thee as my
Father and God. As witness my hand, subscribed
in thy fear and presence. DAVID STONF.U." Such
ai -is of full surrender he often performed, and doubt-
• Mind them of jwciiliar advantage, to remind
him of his obligations, to strengthen his holy pur-
. and to (Miieken his xeal. l< Glory be to (tod,"
• Is, under the same date: "He is my God,
therefore will I trust in him. This day I wish to
con-i vrate to the Lord in fasting and prayer. I feel
him near, producing a solemn tranquillity, — a settled
pence of mind.''

lie proceed*. "Saturday, 14th. This week has
brought with it many mercies, which call for thank-
fulii"-s. La-t Sunday was, on the whole, a good
day, and I have had many proiitable -e;i-ni'- MIHV.
BUT my heart is like 'a broken bow, and a foot out
of joint.' I want to improve every niou cut, to speak

170 MKMOiUS OF TIIK

every word for the Lord, to have every thought
regulated by his grace, to do everything to his glory.
Come, Lord, and cure me now ! Thou sayest, ' Give
me thy heart.' It is my first desire to do it. ' If
thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.' O! let it be
now ! — This week I have been praying for three
blessings: 1. The entire sanctification of my na
ture. 2. The revival of religion. 3. The removal
of a bodily affliction under which I am labouring.
The promise is, ' He will fulfil the desire of them
that fear him.' Lord, ' increase my faith.' I have
been striving this day to fast and pray ; but my
heart is cold and backward. O for the fire of holy
love !

" Saturday, 21st. I now feel that I am the Lord's.
I believe in Christ. This week my experience has
been various. Last Saturday night, I had a good
meeting, — the best I have had since I came into this
Circuit. On Sunday I did not enjoy much liberty,
nor have I had much satisfaction in preaching during
the week. I have not heard, since I came, of any
fruit. In approaching the 'throne of grace' to-day,
I felt cold and backward ; but by perseverance in
fighting against my indifference, I obtained a bless
ing. 1 lon<r for a lull salvation. Sometimes I ago
nize in prayer for it : but I do not live in the Fame
spirit. In prayer, that promise recurred to my mind,
'The Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to
his temple.' Lord, accomplish thy word. I throw
open the doors of my heart. Take all I have. — I
want that spirit of preaching, — love to aouls. With
out it, all is cold nnd Hoad. Lord, give me love to

REV. DAVID STONKH. 171

souls! It was this which constrained Jeremiah to
cry out, 'O! that my head A\ere waters, and mine
eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and
night for the shun of the daughter of my people!'
This prompted David to say, 'Rivers of waters run
down mine eyes, because they keep not thy luw '
This discovered itself in that pathetic exclamation of
Christ, ' O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest
the Prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto
tliee, ho,\ often would I have gathered thy children
t "Aether, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under
her wings, and ye would not! ' — Many things in this
Circuit arc discouraging ; but I trust that the people
are engaging in prayer, and that we shall see the
glory of the Lord.

" Saturday, 28th. Last Sunday, the love-feast at
Qildeno&M was a very blessed season. A friend
from Sheffield spoke arid prayed, and the Lord was
with us indeed and of a truth. The former part of
fhis week wa« a time of prayer. To-day I feel cold
and languid. I have come again and again to the
throne of grace ; and yet I do not enjoy any liberty
I have not heard of any fruit. This will never do.
I cannot be satisfied, I will not be satisfied, without
fruit. Lord, help me to preach with the power of
the Spirit ! "

To Mr. Jennings, of whose conversion he had been
The instrument, he writes, November -JTth, of this
year, "T. A. has been again reminding me that you
wish me to write to you. I thought the bargain had
been that t/nu wore to write first, and I after\\anN.
However, I will try to make a beginning. — Hut what

MEMOIRS OF THE

shall I say ? I can only make general observations,
because I do not know the particular present state
of your mind. I was sorry that I was so engird
the day you were over at Birstal, that I could have
no conversation with you ; — but as I am now break
ing the ice for you, if, on the receipt of this, you will
sit down and write to me all Jiow and about it, I
shall then be able to say something, perhaps more to
the purpose. I suspect that your mind is exercised
on the subject of preaching. You feel a sort of
hankering after it, and inclination to it ; and yet you
start at the difficulties in the way. When you
measure your own supposed unfitness for the work,
you wonder at yourself for thinking about it ; and,
notwithstanding your wonder, you think about it
still. I suspect your state to be very similar to what
mine was before I began to preach. I felt moved to
preach, and yet I was pretty sure I should not be
able to preach extempore. I therefore thought of
getting, if possible, into the established Church, where
I should be allowed the privilege of reading my ser
mons. Nothing satisfied me but a fair trial. You have
heard me say, I tried twice, and laid it aside for tour
months. But, during that time, I had no rest. I
was told, tir'tce was not a fair trial. I began again,
and in my fifth attempt enjoyed liberty, and took
courage. In my sixth attempt, I was more wretchi d
in the pulpit than I have ever been, either before or
since. In iny seventh, I again enjoyed a little liberty.
Now these things I mention, to convince you that
mere reasoning on the subject, in your present state
of mind, will never produce any satisfaction. Begin,

HEY. DAYID STONT.R. 17iJ

and try to preach twelve times. You will then be
al ile to form a better judgment. — But, in the mid>t
of all, live near to (!od. Cry to him for light itnd
direction. Be instant and constant in prayer. Study,
honks, eloquence, fine sermons, are all nothing with
out prayer. Prayer brings the spirit, the life, the
jiinn-r. Assiduously Cultivate your mind. Head
your Bible regularly, and with prayer. Read Wesley
and Fletcher. I know of no human writings like
theirs. — Now write to me. Tell me all your mind.
Tell me what you have read, — what books you have,
— what you are doing, — how near you are living to
God. Guard against temptation. Attend to St.
Paul's advice to his beloved Timothy, 2 Epist. ii. 22:
1 Flee,' &c. ; notjiyht, \t\itjlee. A word to the wi-r
is sufficient."

" And now, William," he observes in a letter to
Mr. Gilpin, dated December 23d, of the same year,
" let me remind you that light without heat, hnoic-
lfift/f in the head without love in the heart, is a very
unsatisfactory thing. Labour to ' grow in grace,' as
well as 'in knowledge.' 'The kingdom of God,'
true religion, ' is not in word' only, 'but in po\\< T.'
To get the power, there mu-t lic>7/vw/ wrestling at
the ' throne of grace ;' and to keep it, there must be
continued wrestling. To this all our pride, our indo
lence, our animal appetites and desires, our natural
disreli-h t'< .r spiritual things, the objects connect. >\
with the world around us an 1 the influence of our
imisible enemies, are determinately opposed. To
conquer all this opposition, there must be self-denial,
a violence done to our own pride, the firmest resolu-

174 MKMOIKS OF THE

tions, and a dependence on divine power. May Cirvrt
help you to struggle and conquer ! "

" Monday, March 3d, 1824," he proceeds in his
diary. "Yesterday, I had a good day. I preached
three times at Birstal, administered the sacrament,
ond met five classes. It is not often that I have three
good seasons in the pulpit in one day : however, in
answer to prayer, I was at liberty all the three times.
But the congregations seemed far more indifferent
than I wished them to be. In the classes, I found a
few who are beginning to meet. All glory to (!od !

" Friday, 7th. On Wednesday and Thin
evenings, I conducted two Missionary prayer- meet
ings— both well attended. This is a good sign.
"When the whole church shall pray earnestly, con
stantly, and in faith; and when they shall labour, as
well as pray ; then will Christ save the woild. My
mind is drawn out after the Lord. I feel eager for
the salvation of souls; but I fear that my eagerness
is zeal for a party, or desire of self-exaltation, rather
than true love to souls. Lord, search me!

" Saturday, Sth. This morning, in prayer, I have,
seen a great beauty in bring all love. This is what
I want, — to be all love in my tempers, thoughts
words, designs, conversation, and conduct. In
prayer, I have enjoyed liberty. Praise the Lord ! I
have INCH enabled to lay hold on Christ as my
Saviour. Last ni<:ht, at White- Lee, I did not enjoy
much liberty: but I heard of rwo who were awakened
under my ministry, some time since, in that neigh
bourhood. To God be all the glory !

"Sunday, 9th. Last night, I heard of a irreat

HEV. DAVID STONEH. 17")

sinner's being awakened, when I was preaching at
Bradford on Christmr.s-day. I feel thankful that
the Lord does not cast me off, but still employs me
for hN irlory. My Lord, go with me this day !

•• M.mduy, 10th. Yesterday, I had but little
liberty in preaching. Perhaps this arose from my
not having made proj>er preparation. I was per-
ple\ed in the choice of subjects. However, I had
the pleasure of admitting twenty-seven on trial. I
fed mv soul going out after God Lord, cleanse me
from sin !

"Tuesday, llth. Yesterday afternoon, in meet
ing a class at Morley, I was remarkably blessed.
My heart was softened. The people seemed to be
affected on every side. Though I do not often shed
I sometimes could scarcely speak for weeping.
But, notwithstanding this, I had a very poor time at
rimrwell in the evening. I am so prone to pride
iind self-exaltation, that the Lord finds it necessary
to use these means, in order to keep me in my own
place. Lord, have mercy upon me, and cleanse my
heart !

" Wednesday, 1-th. I had a poor time again last
night at Henley. I do not know how it is : this week
I can obtain no liberty in preaching.

"Sunday, 10th. I had two or three good seasons
towards the close of the week. Last night, I believe
I grieve 1 the Spirit by idle conversation; but this
morning, on my knees, I have ag-ain enjoyed access
to the throne. I have been pleading the promise of
Christ for a baptism of the Spirit this day, • What
soever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will

170 MKMOIRS OF THE

give it you.' This promise is absolute. ' Lord, in
crease my faith.' — Evening. I have had three good
times, on the whole, to-day ; two at Birstal, and one
«t Westgate-Hill. But I have to mourn over evil
conversation. Lord, forgive! I have been sorely
harassed with strong temptation. Lord, deliver!

"Saturday, 2'2d. Of late, I have had the most
violent temptations, and sometimes have had little
heart to resist. On Thursday evening, while preach
ing at Birstal, my mind was fluttered, and my
sermon spoiled, by the interruptions of a drunki n
man. Saw some of my old friends yesterday at
Bradford. Visited one apparently dying, and, in a
state of nervous debility, despairing of mercy. Lord,
undertake for her !

"Good Friday, 28th. On Good Friday, seven
teen years since, I was awakened and converted.
Help rne this day, O Lord, to enter into a new
covenant with thee !

"Tuesday, April 1st. On Saturday last, I had a
good season during the watch-night at the Heights.
In that neighbourhood, God is pouring out his Spirit,
and awakening sinners. Preached yesterday at tlie
opening of Dudley-Hill chapel. I had not much
liberty : the presence of two or three Preachers
fettered me. When shall I be free from the fear
of man?" ,

To Mr. Jennings he writes, the 4th of this month :
"T. A. tells me you are ill ; and, as he intends to
see you to-morrow, he wishes me to write to you by
him. My time is very limited ; but as a proof of my
regard for yon, I will just scrawl two or three lines.

RF.V. DAVID 8TONEH. 177

Your alHiction is intended for good. It is sent by
your own Father, and he loves you with ail infinite
affection. May he fill you with comfort ! It is of
tar importance to have a sanctified use of afflic
tion, than to be delivered out of it. 'The Lord
knoweth the way that you take: when he hath tried
you, you shall come forth as gold.' I heard some
thing of your preaching. If the Lord spare you to
!i a'_rain, be resolved to preach more plainly
and faithfully than ever."

"Tuesday, July 8th. While, speaking to the so
ciety at Birkenthaw to-nig/it, after preaching, my
soul was quickened. O for a baptism of the Spirit !
I still have to mourn over my instability. The devil
pnr-nes me with horrible temptations, and I do not
re-i-t as I (Ht^lit. O the depths of corruption in my
heart ! Come, Lord Jesus, and create all things
new !

'' Wednesday, 9th. I have had a good season this
evening at ( JiM* rsomr-Miver. Hut I want to live
every moment through the day in the Spirit. O for
the power of lo\e !

" 1 riday, lltli. I have 1-een much profited in
reading the ' Lite of Mr-. HO^TS.' She excels in
de-criliing tin- simplicity of faith. I do believe in
Chri-t. I uive my -elf to him. Lord, take all ! I
had but a barren -ea-on at Batley to-night.

"Tue-day, l-")tli. What is my present state? ]
have taith in ( lod, and lo\ e to God. 1 ft el a reliance
on Cliri-t as my Saviour. I have di -in - alter per
fect love. I um s.rking for it. I .-trive to believe
for if. I feel power, in some degree, ro maintain the

178 MEMOIRS OF THE

spirit of prayer through the day. I have been learn
ing oflate more clearly to distinguish between tempt
ation and sin. Where the will does not consent to
evil, there is no sin. I have heard to-day that two
persons were awakened when I was last at Haworth,
and that one was awakened last Friday evening at
Batley. Lord, the work is thine : take all the glory !

"Thursday, 24th. Much discouraged. The con
gregation at Birstal is small. Can it be the will of
the Lord that I should remain here another year ! I
have been variously exercised this week. I want
this perfect love. Lord, send it ! "

The severe afflictions of Mr. Stoner's excellent
mother were about this time terminated.* She had
endured them as a Christian. Her friends cherish in
affectionate remembrance the many pleasing proofs
which she afforded of peaceful conformity to the will
of her heavenly Father, and of a scriptural meetness
for the " inheritance of the saints in light." Mr.
Stoner records her death in the following affecting
terms: — "August llth. My dear mother is gone,
gone to heaven ! After a long excruciating illness,
she has left the sorrows of the world. Her sufferings,
under the gnawings of a cancer in the breast, for
nearly two years, were unknown to all, but herself
and her God. But now her pain is over for ever.
She is before the throne ! Her loss will be keenly
felt. She has been an affectionate and diligent wife,

* A brief notice of her experience, character, and happy
death, appeared in the Wesleyan-Methodist Magazine for
1824, pp. 140, 141.

HKV. DAVID STONKR. 170

a true helper ; and a kind and tender mother. Her
charities, for her situation, have been great. I have
lost the beat human friend I ever had. But her suf
ferings were so exceedingly great, that my sorrow
for her departure is mingled with joy and gratitude
to God that she is gone. I saw her for the last time
on Wednesday evening ; and, on Sunday afternoon,
about five o'clock, she died.

' Her languishing head is at rest,

Its thinking and aching are o'er ;
Her quiet immovable breast

Is heaved by affliction no more :
Her heart is no longer the seat

Of trouble and torturing pain ;
It ceases to flutter and beat,

It never shall flutter again.'

From this hour I intend, God helping me, to begin
again. What are all the vanities of the world, when
we look at death and eternity ! Lord, sanctify this

dispensation to the family, especially to , who is

the only one of the family not in society.

"Saturday, September 27th. Glory be to God!
He is mine, and I am his. Last Saturday night, at
the band-meeting, I felt my heart melted within me
from a consciousness of my slackness and unfaithful
ness. I gave myself to the Lord ; and while Mrs.
Clapham was praying, I felt the application of the
Saviour's blood, and believed that God had sanctified
my soul. During this week, I have had reasonings
and strugglings ; but I still believe.

"Wednesday, October 29th. I have hitherto re-

ISO MJ'MOIRS OF THK

taiiicil, in some degree, my evidence of peace. I
often have reasonings and combats on the subject,
but I look to Christ ; and, living by faith, I shall
prevail. Lord, help me to conquer !"

Here Mr. S toner's diary closes. Why he conti
nued it no longer, cannot now be ascertained. From
his uniform temper and conduct, one thing may be
safely affirmed, — that his inserting no further notices
of his religious experience in this interesting record,
did not arise from any spiritual declension. Enough,
however, remains of his diary, and enough has been
introduced into the preceding pages, to disclose the
peculiar spirit of his piety, — deep, humble, fervent,
faithful ; alive to every call of duty, keenly appre
hensive of danger, and satisfied with nothing but the
hallowing communications of pure and perfect love.

Of his earnestness in prayer for the prosperity of
religion, during his residence at Birstal, his friends
retain a pleasing recollection. It seemed to pervade
all his public ministrations. It often led him, between
four and five o'clock in the morning, to pour out his
heart in the vestry of the chapel, when no eye wit
nessed his fervent pleadings, but the eye of Him
" who seeth in secret." It was particularly observa
ble at the commencement of the Lord's days. One
of the writers of these Memoirs went into the neigh
bourhood of Birstal, while Mr. Stoner was there, to
preach occasional sermons ; and spent tne night of
Saturday at Mr. Stoner's house. Early in the morn
ing, about or before five o'clock, he was awakened
by a murmuring noise in an adjoining room. On
being fully roused from sleep, he ascertained that it

REV. DAVID STO.MCU. 161

•UMS Mr. Stoiier wrestling with God that his bless-
intr might rest on the church, and accompany tln.>
ministry of the word, — that it might visit his own
soul, and succeed bis labours, that day. " Once,"
observes Mr. Gilpin, "in a love-feast at Gildersome,
I remember his praying six or seven different times
for the blessing of God, and the outpouring of the
Holy Spirit. His whole soul was absorbed in the
work. Self appeared to be annihilated, and the
glory of God in the salvation of men to be all in all."
It is not surprising that one who thus lived in the
spirit of prayer and humble dependence on God.
should have great fruit in his public labours.

In the Birstal Circuit, as well as in his other sta
tions, he paid much attention to prayer-meetings.
It was while here that he published the follow ing
Rules for the proper management of such meetings.
To some it may appear that the time allotted to
each prayer is too short; — but, upon the whole,
the regulations suggested are. deserving of much
attention.

" PRAYER-MEETINGS.

" Prayer-meetings, when properly conducted, are
useful and necessary auxiliaries to the preaching ot
the Gospel : but it is feared their usefulness is, in
many cases, greatly prevented by various errors
connected with the conducting of them. For the
removal of these errors, the following Rules are
recommended : —

"1. Begin the meetine jn-ecinrh/ at the time ap
pointed.

18'2 MEMOIRS OF THE

'"2. Let the meeting be opened by sinking two or
three verses; and afterwards let not more than one
verse, or two short ones, be sung nt a time.

"3. Let every Prayer- Leader have his memory
stored with a variety of suitable verses of hymns,
that there may be no necessity to have recourse to a
book after the meeting is commenced.

" 4. Let the tune be suited to the hymn. For
solemn subjects, let the tune be grave, but not drmrl-
ing ; for cheerful subjects, let the singing be Jin-li/,
but not light.

" 5. Let the person who opens the meeting pray
for the sick, the dying, the king, the nation, the
world, &c. ; and, on ordinary occasions, let tliis
suffice. Let others pray for a present baptism of the
Holy Ghost.

"6. If anyone give a word of exhortation, let
him not exceed from five to ten minutes.

" 7. Let no individual pray long. In general, the
utmost limit ought to be about two minutes. It will
be found much better for one person to pray twice
or thrice in the course of the meeting, than to pray
once a long time. Long praying is, in general, both
a symptom and o cause of spiritual deadness. If you
cannot pray short, oe silent.

"8. Let no time be lost. If one person will not,
let another begin. Two or three, at least, should
pray between the times of singing.

"9. While one is praying, let all others be silent;
except at the close of a petition : then, ' let all the
people say, Amen.' (Psa. cvi. 48.)

" 10. Let not the meeting exceed an hour.

RI.V. DAVID STONKK.

" Pray with huiiiUiti/. Remember, you arc tinners
approaching a God of infinite holiiii

" Pr;'.y with shnpJicifi/. What! will you attempt
to captivate the ear of the Almighty by elegant
sentences, and high-sounding diction? 'Be not rash
with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to
utter anything before (Jod : for Clod is in heaven,
and tlioti upon earth: therefore let thy words be
few.' (Eccfe v. 2.)

"Pray with earnestness. 'And he said, I will not
let thee go, except thou bless me.' (Gen. xxxii. 26.)

" Pray in tJie name of Christ. ' Whatsoever ye
shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.'
(John xvi. 23.)

" Pray in faith. ' What things soever ye <i
when \c pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye
shall have them.' (Mark xi. 24.)"

Hitherto Mr. Stoner had been e\< -rci-ed by the
temptations of Satan, the intiniiitii's of his own nature,
and the ordinary oppositions of the world : — but he
had not partaken largely of the bitter nip of domes
tic affliction. The death of his mother appears to
have been the f!r-t -erious breach that was made in
:iily connexions. From this period, however,
as the succeeding chapter will declare, he was pain
fully vi-ited by this da-s <,f human siitleriiiirs. To
prepare him for his early removal, it seemed good
to his heavenly Father to examine and perfect his
Christian virtues by every specie* of trial. Nor did
he "faint in the day of adversity." The spiritual
excellencies which had adorned the pnredin<_' stages
of his earthly pilgrimage, continued to shine with
i; -J

i84 MEMOIRS OF THE

mild and undiminished lustre amid the dreary scenes
of that dark valley, which he was at length called to
traverse. He endured the trial. Relying on the
arm of Omnipotence, he was elevated above the
changes, sorrows, and privations of time ; he could
meekly rejoice in prospect of the " divine and inef
fable fruits of immortality," and could apply to his
personal condition that cheering description of the
saint's progress to the heavenly Jerusalem, on which
lie had often expatiated with delight in his public
ministrations, " Blessed is the man whose strength
is in thee ; in whose heart are the ways of them.
Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a
well : the rain also filleth the pools. They go from
strength to strength, every one of them in Ziou
uppeareth before God."

IlEV. OAV1U STOM.lt. 1 !>,">

CHAPTER VIII.

He reetivet an appointment to the York Circuit — The dis-
cvstion which took place in Conference on this subject
— he has tiro severe attacks of sickness— Extract frum
a letter to Miss Milnes — Death of his daughter —
Extract from a letter to Mr. William Parkin — Death
and character nf Mrs. Stoner — Under these painful
bereavements, he strives to allay his yrief by engaging
zealously in the discharge of his official duties — His
labours and success — Various extracts from his cor-
respondence — His second marriage Other ea tracts
— He promotes the erection of a third chapel at York
— General remarks on his experience and tieics during
hit residence in that city.

FOR several reasons it appeared desirable, both to
Mr. Stoner and the societies in the Birstal Circuit,
that he should continue among them a third year,
llr liiid -ecured their esteem and attachment ; he was
in the very height of his u.-efulness, ;md, in conjunc
tion with some active and influential friends, was
[irnjeetinjr new plans, which promised, [fafiOOmpUUMJ
liy the blesMii^ of (Jod, very considerably to extend
the influence of religion in the vicinity of liirstal.
The Conference, however, after having carefully i \-
amined tlie subject, judged it jimper that he should
remove to York ; to which city lie \\us
i< 3

186 MKMOIHS OF THK

appointed. Here his highly-valued colleagues \\crc,
the Rev. John Slack and the Rev. Dr. M'Allum,
with whom he laboured for two years in great
unanimity and peace.

It may not be improper to record that the quest!' >n
of his removal from Birstal excited much discussion
in the Conference. Not a few of the Preachers, con
sidering the peculiar circumstances and feelings of
the Birstal societies, and apprehensive of the conse
quences which might possibly arise from the disap
pointment of their hopes, pleaded strongly for hU
continuance among them ; while others, adverting to
the claims and wants of the York Circuit, urged, with
equal earnestness, that he should be appointed to that
important station. During this debate Mr. Stoner
was present, and to him it was sufficiently painful
and embarrassing. His nature shrank from thf
exposure to which he was subjected ; and his insu
perable diffidence prevented him from expressing
any sentiments of his own on the subject, in the pre
sence of so large an assembly of his brethren. He
deemed it most consistent with his age and character
to resign himself, in silence, to the presiding control
of Heaven, and submissively await the decision of
judgments more mature than his own. The point
was at length settled by a majority of votes. One
argument which had been chiefly employed in favour
of his remaining at Birstal, arose from his late use
fulness there. When the debate was terminated, he
addressed a note to the Secretary, modestly disclaim
ing the honour which had been attributed to him,
and expressing his persuasion that the religious

IlET. DAVID ST'.MIi:. 1-7

prosperity of the Birstal Circuit ought mainly to be
tiM-ribed, under God, to tlie zealous and faithful ex
ertions of hi< venerated Suj)erintendent, Mr. Nelson.
The watchful discipline to which, as different parts
of his diary amply testify, he had submitted in the
investigation of his motives, was not in vain. From
tlio itbove-mentioned incident, it is evident that he
had succes>nilly learned "in lowliness of mind to
esteem others better than himself," and to rejoice in
the diffusion of evangelical light and blessing by the
instrumentality of others, though his own name were
unregarded and forgotten.

The close confinement of this Conference, which
was held, during a sultry season, in the Old chapel
at Leeds, appears to have had an unfriendly effect
on his health ; and the day after his return to Birstal,
he was seized with a violent attack of cholera morbus ;
a disease at that time extensively and fatally preva
lent. For some days his life was in imminent dan
ger; nor could he, until after a lapse of more than
three weeks, recover strength sufficient to enable him
ti> remove to his new Circuit. Here, however, he
arrived in the beginning of September, 1824, much
\\a-ted mid debilitated, but anxious to engage in his
wonted labours.

He soon found himself among a people differing,
in several respects, from those whom he had left, but
partaking, in an encouraging degree, of "the spirit
of grace and of supplications." Many prayers had
been offered at York, during the sittings of Con
ference, for a richer communication of heavenly in
fluence, and many tokens and pledges of prosjterity

188 MKMOIHS OF THE

had been received. All this was very cheering to the
mind of Mr. Stoner. He entered upon his duties
with his usual ardour ; but was again interrupted in
his proceedings by indisposition. The Circuit uas
at that time, a very laborious one, embracing almost
the whole of what are now the York and Tadcaster
Circuits. It appears that the three Preachers regu
larly visited nearly fifty villages within a compass
of ten miles round York ; and in one direction
rode fifteen miles. This was, at first, too much for
Mr. Stoner ; and, in consequence of the delicate
state of his health, and his frequent exposure to the
night air, he contracted a severe cold on his throat
and lungs, which rendered it necessary that he should
again desist, for upwards of a fortnight, from his
public duties.

When he was recovering, he wrote to Miss Milnes,
of Bradford, then at a boarding-school in Leeds, as
follows: — " ' Wherefore should a living man com
plain ? ' I am sure that I, of all men, have no reason
to complain, except of myself. My heavenly Father
has been always kind to me ; O how kind ! and I
have been unfaithful to him ; O how unfaithful ! lie
has blessed me all my life long, and he still !>'
If lie has afflicted, it has been gently, and slightly,
and in much love; and now he is restoring me to
health. I preached twice in York on Sunday, and
a^ain last night ; and no\v I feel better and stronger
Than I have done since I left Hirstal. Praise the
Lord ! And now, my dear Kli/a, live to God. What
a mercy that lie has drawn your heart after himself
in your Tender years! O <le\..te yourself entirely to

UICV. DAVID STONKIl. Ib9

hi> service ! Remember there is no happiness to be
found anywhere else ; and happiness is the object of
universal pursuit. What crowds are seeking it in
ilre-s iu amusements, in mirth, in company, in any
thing but religion! Poor, gay, empty, fluttering,
painted butterflies! And are these the souls for
whom Christ shed his heart's blood? And are these
to live for ever ? — to live, either mingling their groans
among the shrieks of the damned in hell, or joining
in the chorus of angels and saints in heaven, through
an unwasting eternity? ' O eternity, eternity ! who
can tell the length of eternity ?' And this eternity
in yours. O live for it ! Never, never omit the duty
of prayer. However backward and listless you may
sometimes feel towards this duty, always be deter
mined to break through. Never give way to tempta
tion in the omission of this duty. It is your life.
'Continue instant in prayer;' and watch against
everything that would lead you astray. May God
bh '-s you ! — Avoid trifling conversation. Try some
times to drop a word for God. Who knows ho.v
useful you may be to some of the young ladi •
around you ? "

Scarcely was Mr. Stoner's health re-established,
when lie was called to pass through distressing scenes
of domes-tie affliction and bereavement. His only
daughter, a lovely and promising child, was first
atl'c cteil with symptoms of water in the head, and
af'erwards seized with the hooping-cough, accom
panied, it would seem, with scarlet-fever. He had
a very tender atti etion for her, and discovered much
solicitude for her n ••. overy, mingled, however, witL

10<) MKMOIItS 01- 1I1K

si spirit of meek submission to hi* heavenly Futher's
will. Every means v\ as undnocwly employm) ; but

in vain. She died on the 2oth of October, soon to he
followed by another, whose loss was far more deeply
and painfully felt.

To the affliction of his family, the death of lii-
daughter, and the alarming situation of Mrs. Stoner,
he refers in the following extract from a letter to
Mr. W. Parkin, of Hightown, near Birstal, dated
November 3d : — " Since we came to this city, we
have seen much affliction. Scarcely has a day pa->ed
without more or less suffering, either of parents or
children. Soon after our arrival, I caught a K
told, and was laid aside for some time; but, thanks
to the Giver of every blessing, he has raised me
n train. I have now been above a month in my re
gular work, and am at present tolerably well. One
of our little boys was taken ill, but he soon recovered.
Our little daughter was then seized, and threatened
with water on the brain. By this she was much
reduced in strength, and then cam:ht the hooping-
cough, which, with teething, and our close situation
combined, brought a ti rmination to her earthly
course on Monday morning before last. The day
after we had interred our lovely LouNa, my vrite \\as
delivered of a dead daughter. This wa« caused, I
believe, by exertion of body, and anxiety of mind.
Since the time of her confinement, sl;e ha- been very
ill. She is still so at the present time; and, if >he
recover, which I hope will be the MM, it is probable-
from her situation that her recovery will be tedious
and slow. But shall I complain and murmur? N->.

II KV. DAVID STONKK. 191

I dnre not. 1 know what I have deserved, — ever
lasting damnation; and all siliove this is rich mercy.
And O! \vlrat numberless mercies I still enjoy ! May
(!•»! make me thankful! — I dare not Tnurrnur, be-
ciu-c I know it is the Lord's doing; and he is too
to do wrong, and too good to be unkind.
' Whom the Lord loveth, he chasteneth ;' and though
this 'cha-tenintr for the present seemeth not to be
joyous, but !_rri<-\ OMS,' it is intended hereafter to
' yield the peaceable fruit of righteousness.' — I dare
not murmur, because when the Almighty tried me
with health, and ease, and comfort, I did not make
the improvement which I ouglft to have d<me:
— so now he has taken tho rod into his hand, and
put me into the school of affliction. But () my stub
born heart ! How dull and unteaehable am I ! May
(iod help me to learn the lessons of his grace ! — I
dare not murmur, because I know that the 'suffering
of this present time are not worthy to be compared
with the i_rlory which shall be revealed in us,' if we
are but faithful to the grace of CJod. — I am greatly
gratified and encouraged to rind that you remember
me at the ' throne of <_rraee.'

' All the promises are sure
To persevering prayer.'

I earnestly re<|ue-t you still to plead for me, that
Cod would hle-s me, and make me a blessing. Be
assured I do not forurt you :— but O that my prayers

iore prevalent, to draw down blessings on my
self, and others whom I endeavour to bring before

.t-tool of the throne. — You say, 'Some weeks

192 MEMOIRS OF THK

back my soul has not been in so lively a. state.' How
is this ? O take care ! Keep alive and lively ; keep
the fire burning. Dread lukewarmness as you dread
hell-fire. When anything of this kind is cm-ping
over you, immediately take the alarm ; run to the
' throne of grace ;' and there weep, and groan, and
plead, and wrestle, till you feel that the intercourse
is again open, and that all is right between God and
your soul. — May you have eternal access to that
' tree of life, the leaves of which are for the healing
of the nations !' "

The hopes which he entertained of Mrs. Stoner's
recovery proved painfully delusive. Her constitu
tion had been failing for some time, and at length
sank under the afflictions, domestic and personal,
through which she was called to pass. Her deport
ment, during the whole of her sickness, was emi
nently Christian and edifying; and her departure
unusually calm and peaceful. She died in the 28th
year of her age, just a fortnight after her beloved
daughter ; and was interred in the same quiet resting-
place at Barwick. A funeral sermon was preached
on the occasion by one of the compilers of these
Memoirs, from Prov. xiv. 32: "The righteous hath
hope in his death."

It is justly remarked by Dr. M'Alluin, that "he
must have been more or less than man, who did not
feel under these bereavements." To her husband
the loss of Mrs. Stoner was incalculable. Strictly
observant of his views, dispositions, and habits, she
laboured in every way within her power to promote
his personal comfort and ministerial usefulness ; she

II KV. DAVID STOKER. l!>3

cheerfully entered into his plans and usages, solaced
him under his discouragements, and cordially united
with him in prayer, and other religious exercises.
She \\ a*, to use his own language, " truly a help
meet tor him, one who was always ready to multiply
liis joys by joining in them, and to lighten his loads
by sharing them." He could " mournfully but
thankfully testify, that ' she had done him good and
not evil all the days of her life.' "

The following sketch of her character is extracted
from a short notice by Mr. Stoner, inserted in the
Wesleyan-Methodist Magazine for 1825, pp. 356,
357: — "Various excellencies shone out in her cha
racter. The graces of the Spirit were implanted
within, and by the fosteringcare of the great 'Keeper
of the vineyard,' through the means of spiritual sun
shine and showers, and sanctified storms, these plants
of the Lord's right-hand planting rose to a consider
able decree of vigour and maturity. She was clot lied
with humility. Site had low thoughts of herself,
high thoughts of her Christian friends, and exalted
thoughts of her great Redeemer. Her meekness and
patience were exemplary. Her disposition, by
nature, was gentle and kind; and this, l.y graee,
\\a^ so mellowed and refined, that her hu>band can
not recollect that he ever saw her angry, or that he
ever heard her speak a word to any one harsh or
unkind. She had eminently ' the ornament of a
meek and quiet spirit, which is, in the sight of God,
of great price.' Her industry and attention to the
duties of her family were worthy of notice. In the
redemption of time, she was an admirable pattern.
I

104 •>] US OF TIIF.

Iii her the words of the wise man were fully exem
plified : ' She looketh well to the ways of her house
hold, and eateth not the bread of idleness.' She
loved the word of God. The New Testament was
her constant ' Pocket Companion.' She read the
Bible regularly through once a year, and read it
much upon her knees."

Deprived of such a conjugal associate, Mr. Stoner
found his situation truly mournful and desolate.
Two children indeed remained, dear remembrancers
of departed excellence ; yet they served not always
to allay, but often to re-awaken and augment, his
sorrows. For a short season, he seemed in danger
of falling under the influence of deep mental depres
sion. He betook himself, however, to the duties of
his closet and of his ministerial office ; — he received
every mark of kind and sympathizing attention from
the friends at York ; — and he shortly had the com
fort to feel that his anguish was considerably alle
viated, though the wound remained.

To the engagements of the pulpit, both regular
and occasional, he devoted himself, if possible, with
an increase of zeal and diligence. His labours were,
ns usual, eminently acceptable and useful. At some
seasons, the energy of his remonstrances and appeals
was irresistible. Once, as he himself informed Mr.
Jennings, he was preaching an occasional charity-
Bermon in the vicinity of York, and observed that he
did not remember ever to have beheld so deep and
general an influence resting on a congregation as lie
witnessed that day. In the course of his sermon a
little boy began to weep bitterly. A person in the

11K.V. DAVID STOXKJl. 19.")

same pew inquire, 1 \\hat was amiss,-- it' lie wished to
poout. "No," replied the child ; " l>ut . I will in-n-r
mil/ fold iron/it any mure." An incident like this
may seem trivial, but it illustrates the peculiar pcint
Ktdforecaf Mr. S toner's pulpit addrcsse*. He could
not sitisfy himself with general declamations, lm\v
ardent KMVtr they niiirlit be, against sin, and in
recommendation of holiness. He descended to par-
tic ulars. He selected characters and cases. He
strove to impress conviction on every heart; and by
tlie accompanying demonstration and power of the.
divine Spirit, often succeeded in flashing illumina
tion through the most ignorant and untutored mind,
and in rousing the most inattentive to trembling
inquiry and penitent resolution.

During his residence at York, he bestowed much
attention on the management of prayer-meetings.
It is in reference to his proceedings at tins period,
and in this particular, that Dr. M'Allum remark-.
"At the elo-e of almo-t every eveninir -er\ ice,
whether in town or country, he held a prayer-
meeting; and without calling on any one by name,
he left those to en<_::i'_re who felt disposed ; only
cautioning all n^am^t ' niucli speaking' and 'vain
repetitions.' The prayer of the petitioners wa< for a
ut ble—iiiLr ; tor a spirit of conviction to wound,
and the healings of the balm of dilead to save the
Foul, lie ne\< r sutfered more than one to eiiv
tli" -ame time in audible prayer: he dUliked noi-e
tor its o\\n sake: and being desirous that everything
should be done ' decentlx and in order,' and that
our '-nod should not be evil spoken of,' In
* ->

196 MEMOIKS OK THE

not endure any one to stamp with the foot, or strike
u table or form with the hand ; a practice, he thought,
which, if it did not come of evil, did not tend to
good. — If any persons were in distress, he spoke to
the individuals softly and encouragingly, while an
other was engaged in public prayer: but he preferred
dismissing the company, that he might remain alone
with the convinced souls ; or, at most, that only two
or three might continue with him and them ; and
then he would wrestle in prayer till the contrite
spirits found ' redemption in the blood of Christ, the
forgiveness of sins.' "

He paid much regard also to band-meetings, and
endeavoured, in conjunction with his excellent col
leagues, to promote their establishment. "The
public band-meeting in York," says Dr. M'Allum,
" was revived ; and it proved, and continues to prove,
eminently a means of grace. It was one which Mr.
S toner was careful to attend ; and not without ad
vantage to himself, and much to the benefit of others.
Ready and prompt of speech for the Lord as he was,
I sometimes thought him unnecessarily disposed to
be grieved with the pauses in the mooting; but few
could retire from the assembly without finding their
minds quickened and enlivened."

The labours of himself and valuable coadjutors
were crowned with an encouraging measure of suc
cess. Dr. M'Allum testifies that "a multitude,
both of men and women, believed ; a great propor-
t ii of whom continue to hold fast their confidence.
At least four hundred persons wore added unto tlie
Lord ; and though not exclusively by his instru-

HI-:V. DAVID STONKH. 11)7

mentality, yet he was :in eminent, instrument in the
good which was done. His culls to other Circuits on
public occasions were frequent and urgent, and lie
could not resi>t them all ; but Ins absence was lelt to
In- ;i loss which was very imperfectly compensated by
the benefits of hi* visits elsewhere." — The York Cir
cuit was divided in the year 1825. This division,
as Dr. M'AlIum proceeds to observe, "was in every
respect an advantage to York, and secured the better
attendance of the Preachers to their appointments
within its hounds. The second year, the one, it pos
sible, of more diligent, and certainly of less inter
rupted labour, was not distinguished by much
increase. But the work deepened remarkably : be
lievers were blessed with the abiding witness of their
adoption; they were ' e-tabli-hed in the faith, rooted
and grounded in love.' " — To trace the different
workings of Mr. Stoner's mind during the period of
his continuant •>' at York, would undoubtedly be inter
esting and edifying ; — l>ut materials tail. The writers
must therefor-' sati-fy themselves by introducing such
extracts from his letters as appeal- mo-t proper to
unfold his unaltered principles and consistent aims.

To Mi-s Milnes he write-;, December Gth, 1824,
about a month alter M r». StnnerV death : " It gives
me threat pleasure to hear of your welfare, — that you
are still walking in religion's ways, and determined
to persevere. O may the God of all grace inspire
you with wisdom and resolution, that you may be
enabled to avoid every snare, and conquer every
temptation ! — The Lord has called me t.> pa-s through
deep waters Miu-e 1 rarne to York ; but hitherto he
8 8

108 MEMOIRS OF THK

has helped me. It is the Lord ; and I know he can
not do wrong. I have lost the flower of all my
earthly blessings; but my loss is her eternal gain.
Nearly her last words were, ' The — Lord — is — my —
salvation ! ' Let you and me be determined so to
live, that in our last, honest hour, we also may tri
umph in the Lord as our salvation. — Praise the Lord,
I am much better in bodily health now, than I have
been before since I came to York. I have been a
fortnight in my regular work, and hope I shall be
able, with the blessing of the Lord, to persevere. —
And now, rny dear Eliza, watch and pray. O live
to God ! The world around us is perishing and
vanishing. We are hastening to etemity. Strange
that we should be so indifferent to its all-important
concerns ! I hope at last you will meet in heaven
that unworthy servant of Christ, David Stoner. —
P.S. The motto on your seal touched my heart :
4 To-day we bloom, to-morrow die.' O how true !
' Be ye also ready.' "

On the Ifith of August, 1825, he wrote to Mr.
Jennings, who was just then received as a probationer
in the Wesleyan Itinerancy : " I looked over the
Stations for your name, and found a Joseph Jennings,
which I suppose was intended for you. I congratu
late you upon your introduction among a body of
men, equal to whom, I believe, you will not find
another in the Lord's world. I congratulate you
upon your now being called to consecrate all your
bodily and intellectual powers to the most important,
the most honourable, and yet the most responsible
work in the world, — the work of saving souls from

RKV. DAVID STuVKR. 100

death, of spreading the knowledge of tin- Saviour's
inline, of thinning tin- ranks of the devil's army, of
increasing at once tlie joy and the population of
lieaven. May f!od give you great success ! ' Hope,
for tlie l>esf, and prepare for the worst,' is an old
proverb well worthy of attention. — You have, I bc-
licve, the right object in view, — the glory of God in
tlie salvation of souls. I hope you will always keep
it in view. For this you must labour, and study,
and preach, and pray, and read, and travel. Nothing
/<•.<.-•. and nothing rlsr, than this must satisfy you. To
preach fine sermons, to acquire learning, to gain
admiration and popularity, are despicable objecN,
when compared with the salvation of souls. 'Let
thine eye be single ! ' " — He then cautions his young
friend against imitating those who strive to be yrntt
rather than ufffnl I'reaclnTs ; and advises him to
follow such for his model as an seeking to be " ijnod
IMTS." " To be useful," he proceeds, "is tlie
motive which sets them to work, and keeps tin in at
it. They labour to gain learning and the best gifts;
to acquire the best language, the best ideas, the l>est
figures, and the best action : yet they sacrifice all
on this altar, — to gain the salvation of souls. The
plainness, simplicity, faithfulness, and energy, which
charaeteri/.ed the ministry of the first Methodi-t
Preachers are the objects of their imitation. They
endeavour to 'declare the whole counsel of (Jod.'
They do not forget to preach to shinrrs, and to preach
to them ax s!nnrr.\ ; sinners on the verge of ruin,
dancing over tlie precipice of perdition, ju~t dropping
into hell. They still remember that all means arc

200 MEMOIRS OF "I UK

vain without a divine influence ; and, therefore, tli y
pray, and excite others to pray, for the outpourings
of the Spirit. United, persevering prayer is heard
and answered ; the fountains of the great deep are
broken up ; floods of grace descend ; and sinners are
converted to God. — As soon as you have got com
fortably into your Circuit, you must send me ;»
particular account of your proceedings and prospects.
Of course, you will have learned before now, that
Methodism is a very different thing in the south from
what it is in Yorkshire. I would advise you, if pos
sible, to transplant Yorkshire Methodism into Ox
fordshire and Buckinghamshire; — but go about your
work mildly and gently, though resolutely and
steadily. Don't be hotheaded, rash, and overbear
ing. You must draw, and not drive. First, gain
the affections of the people. This perhaps you may
do in six months ; then, the other six, you may do
almost what you will with them. — The Lord is still
carrying on his work in a small degree among us.
But we want a mighty flood. Seldom a week ]
over but more or fewer souls enter into liberty ; and
it' this is the case in suutiiirr, wo hope to have a great
ingathering in winter. ' If you wish to see extraor
dinary effects, you must use extraordinary ejforta.'
This is a maxim confirmed by Scripture, and the
experience of the church in all ages. Take it, and
act upon it. — In your next, send me word what
course of study you are pursuing. You niu-t now
begin to work as you have never done. He deter
mined to be a workman, a labourer, and not*, loiterer.
May the Lord bless you ! "

KEY. DAVID STONKK. 201

To Miss Mary Ann Rhodes, of Birstal, afterwards
his wife, and now his sorrowing widow, he writes,
under tlif date of October 28th, the same year: " It
is now near midnight. All around me is still— silent
as death ! Methinks many angels are here, and
some of my friends from the heavenly world ! How
solemn ! how delightful ! The minster clock strikes !
lit ar it. Gone! Gone! Gone ! Gone ! Gone ! Gone!
Gone! Gone ! Gone ! Gone! Gone! Gone! — October
2Hth, \8'2~>, is gone for ever ! What account has it
carried to the recording angel? O that we may live
for eternity ! Rest not without purity of heart. Be
determined to get it, and then you \A ill help me to
get it. And O how much for our interest and ad-
\antnge to have it ! I have had it ; but it is gone !
surely not for ever gone ! The Lord has been trying
me, and I have not stood the trial. I have lost
ground, instead of gaining. May the Lo:d have
mercy upon me! O help me by your prayer-;, and
example, and influence, and exhortations, to regain
my ground." — The above was evidently written
during a season of depression and discouragement.
It partakes of that severity in pronouncing judgment
on him-elf, which has already been observed in dif
ferent extracts from his diary. He appears, however,
soon to have recovered that evidence of spiritual
purity, without which he could not be satisfied; and
during the remainder of hi> time at York, and more
\Nihly, if possible, during the short term lie spent at
Liverpool, he afforded the strongest practical proof
of it* enjoyment and influence.

He had remained twelve months in the Mate of a

-02 MEMOIRS OF TIIK

widower, when, after much prayer and deliberation,
he entered into the marriage connexion with the
person to whom the preceding letter was addressed.
This union was soon and prematurely dissolved by
the hand of death ; but during its continuance it
i'l-p.'ars to have been a source of great mutual enjoy
ment to himself, and to her who now survives to
cherish the recollection of his virtues and mourn over
his early and unexpected removal.

January 7th and 9th, 1826", he writes to Mr. Jen
nings: "From the wickedness which prevails in
your neighbourhood, and the general dulness and
deadness of your religious societies, perhaps you will
l>e tempted to impatience, — especially from the latter.
You must guard against that danger. Nothing is to
bo gained by driving and scolding. Everything
almost may be done by drawing, and ntcltlntj, and
iri nning. If the people will not pray as fast, and
loud, and short; or if they will not say Amen, as
you wish them to do, — still be gentle and patient.
Creep first, — then walk, — then run, — and last of all
fly. But at the same time keep your own soul alive
to God. Let the fire be always burning brightly
and ardently on your own altar, wherever it may
blaze or blink beside. And how this is to be done
you know, — by prayer, and praise, and faith, and
watchfulness. — I hope you have got over in
your fears by this time. "What have you to fear,
man? He who tears (iod, needs have no other fear.
Preach on, and pray on, and praise on, and believe
on ; and tear not. — It appears you have plenty of
walking and preaching, and a fine field fur useful-

KK\ . :>.\\ I II .-TO.NKK. CHS

Labour on, and export to see fruit. Let
nothing else content you. — I have just been at our
hand-meeting. Praise the Lord ! he has blessed and
filled ray soul. I felt my cup to run over.

' What a mercy is this, what a heaven of bliss !

How unspeakably happy am I !
Gather'd into the fold, with thy people enroll'd,
With thy people to live and to die !'

" You will have heard, I dare say, that I am mar
ried again. I can live to God better in a married
than in a single state ; and it is my intention to live
to him. May he help me ! — We are not getting on
11 in our Circuit as we did last year at this
time. We had very little increase the last quarter,
— only about half a dozen, and about fifty on trial.
But praise the Lord for half a dozen ! We are pray-
.'iid looking, and longing: — surely the -hower
will come. — 9th. I had a pretty good day yesterday.
One young man cried for mercy in the praycr-
mei liiiLT. and obtained liberty. l'rai-e the Lord tor
one! But I \\ant thousands. It is my daily prayer,
• Lord, lay <>n my heart the burden of souls ! Let
me feel tor souls ! Gi\e me souls !' And surely tin-
Lord will answer prayer. Pray for me, and pray on
until prayer is lost in praise, in the light and glory
of heaven. May God bring us thither!"

The following is an extract from two letters ad-
d rev-id, 1-Ybruary 4th and l:tth of the -aim- year, to
! U M-ters-in-la\\ . Mi"''- Lena and Jane Ilhoi'
Hir-tal : — ''Such i- this vain world! Happy they
ui'l h-'art- an- above the -tars ! O

204 MKMOIHS OF TF1K

my girls, 'set your affections on things above, not
on things on the earth.' — I hope we are creeping on
a little in our society at York, but not so swiftly as
our expectations and wishes. Pray for us, that \ve
may soon have a copious shower. — You must endea
vour to improve your time. Whatever otliers do, I
hope my two sisters are resolved to be women of
God. You have a fine opportunity of getting a
clearer knowledge of your own hearts, and of the
excellency, ability, and willingness of the Saviour.
May the Lord help you to use it ! He had been
visiting you with slight affliction. May it be sanc
tified to your good. We have Deserved everlasting
misery, but God chastises in mercy."

In a letter to Mr. Jennings, under the date of
March 29th, he has some very useful observations.
It may not be superfluous to remark, that, in the
following extract he evidently uses the word jo;/ to
denote the occasional hilarity of the Christian's spirit,
rather than its calm and settled felicity. By the
term joy, the Scriptures, it is thought, more
rally designate the latter, and encourage us to believe
that, in the possession of present blessings, and the
prospect of those scenes of future happiness which
expand themselves to the eye of faith and hope, we
may habitually rejoice, though the more sensible
emotions of our joy will be subject to frequent varia
tions. " You complain of the want of peace and joy.
As to peace, I need not tell you that it is our duty
and privilege always to have this blcsMiig. When
justified by faith, we have peace. You give way to
over-anxiety, and fleshly reasonings about this arid

IIF.Y. DAVID STONF.U. SOO

that; and thus ml) yourself of comfort. Why \\ill
\oii 1)0 such an enemy to yourself? — As to Joy, it is
quite another thinjr. No spiritual sensation of the
Christian is so variable as joy. Sometimes there is
a 'need' for our being in ' heaviness through mani
fold temptations.' Our feelings as to joy often
depend on the state of the atmosphere, the health of
the body, or the tone of the animal spirits. Don't
rob yourself of peace by complaining that you have
not sufficient joy. Strive to ' rejoice evermore.' — I
am glad to hear that you have a little prosperity in
your Circuit. Prosperity, be it ever so little, is
cause for gratitude and joy. Remember the value
of <nir soul, and labour on. — You still talk of your
fears, and of going home. I say, Go home, if you
dare. If you wish to gratify the devil, and displease
God, go home. If you wish to have the curse of God
upon your body and soul, and all you set your hand
to, go home. If you wish to be miserable in this
world, and lost in the next, go home. You ask, ' Is
not this one proof that I am not called of God to the
work, -that I ha\e not greater liberty in composing
sermons, and a freedom from such distressing per
plexity?' If e.r/irrinirr, my own experience, and
the experience of of /UTS, is any criterion, I an-\\er,
No ! 1 li;' ;. ;is 1 have often told you before, similar
and perplexities; yet I have now no doubt of
my call to the ministry of the Gospel. Others, I see
from biographical accounts, as \\ell as hi ar from
living witnesses, have been exercised in the sime
way. 'There hath no temptation taken you but
such as is common to man' in the same ciivnin-

200 MKMOIltS OF THE

stances. After a while, I have no doubt, you will
rise above them. Only persevere in prayer and
labour; and the sky will cKjar, and the sun will
shine."

To a young man, then engaged as an assistant in
a public seminary, who was under the influence cf
much nervous debility, and among other things suf
fered considerable disquietude on the subject of his
attempting the Christian ministry, he addressed the
following pertinent and discreet remarks : — " Yon
complain that your nervous disorder hns gained
ground, and that your memory is shattered and m\-
paired. Now, certainly, from what I learn, you can
expect little else but a disordered imagination, and
an impaired memory. If I am rightly informed,
you sit up late at night, even sometimes past mid
night. Then, of course, instead of being up early in
the morning, and taking an invigorating walk, you
are dozing in bed ; and as nature must have her
proper quantity of repose, you are under the neces
sity of sleeping between school-hours. Such a plan
as this, with your sedentary employment, would be
enough to ruin a good constitution, and to pro
duce depression with all iN accompanying evils; of
making molehills into mountains, and filling the
mind with real agony, though arising from imagi-
nnrif causes. Now, my dear youth, you must change
your plan. Hemember the old adage, which is not
to be despised hfcdnsc it is old : —
1 Early to bed, and early to rise,

Will make a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.'
You must deny yourself, and go to bed in good time

HKV. DAVID STONEH. 1?U7

Deny yourself of the 'lust of finishing,' as it has
lii-cii culled. Fix your hour; and when the hour
arrives, it' it iind you in the midst of a sentence or
\\ord, do not. tini-h, but retire to rest. In the moru-
iii'_' also fix your hour, and pray to God for strength
td ri-e. When the mornings are fine, take a walk.
The more time you spend in exercise in the open air,
when the weather is dry, consistently with your other
duties the better it will be for your body and mind.
— Fasting cannot be very proper for you in your
weak state. You can abstain, without diminishing
anything from the quantity and nutrition of your
f»i>d. -'Mind not high things.' I think you had
better let preaching alone at present. Next to main
taining your union with God, your first care ought
t<i be, the restoration of your health. Your nervous
depression. as lung as it is cherished by your neglect
of the right means to remove it. will prevent you
from making anything out successfully in preaching.
I woidd adv;-e you to lay aside all thoughts on that
subject for a vliort time. My dear youth, only be
careful to maintain a good conscience, and all will be
well. Your heavenly Father will support and direct
you."

Duriii'jr the second year of his residence at York,
be assiduously everted himself in promoting the
erection of a third chapel in that city. The situation
which was cho-en for this purpose is nt a convenient
distance tVom both the other cha[>"N, in a much
neglected neighbourhood, occupied chiefly by the

lowest ranks of society. It was his settled conviction
that, while the Mini-ters <if die \Ve^le\.m ( 'i>nne.\ioii

208 M KM 01 IIS OF THE

are bound to promote the spiritual welfare of all \\lio
come within their reach, they have a special com
mission to the poorest and most untutored. The
erection, therefore, of a suitable chapel among such
a people, was, as Dr. M'Allum remarks, "a mea
sure very near his heart ; and, but for his exhorta
tions, it would probably never have been effected."
So intent was he on this project, that his consent to
remain a third year at York was suspended, in part,
on its accomplishment. He had the satisfaction of
assisting at the opening of this chapel, just before his
departure to his next and last station ; — nor were his
hopes concerning it in vain. It has already been
the means of extensive good in the district where it
stands.

The period which Mr. Stoner spent at York,
though shaded by much suffering and privation, was
by no means the least beneficial of his life with regard
to his own spiritual improvement. His religious
experience acquired a softer and richer maturity; —
his views became still more abstracted from the vani
ties of earth, and fixed on the felicities of heaven.
The scenes of mortality which he witnessed in his
own family, were ordered in mercy. They evidently
directed a larger portion of his attention to the so
lemnities of death, and served, by the unerring
appointment of divine Providence, to render his
mind more familiar with that awful, but not cheer
less, passage to the everlasting hills of light and
immortality, through which he was shortly to be
conducted. The "only wise God our Saviour," to
whom the faithful Christian has resigned all his con-

RKV. DAVID STONKK.

209

. -rldniii Hiti'er< aiij thing to take him by sur-
pri-e. Hy tin- invisible agency of his grace, pressing
surrounding circumstances and passing occurrences
into its service, lu- generally gives a secret current to
the thoughts, mill a peculiar character to the feelhiga,
which gradually prepare the individual for approach
ing events. So Mr. Stoner found it. After he had
stood on the verge of that grave which folded in its
dark bosom the remains of his beloved wife and off-
Hpriii!:, he seems to have indulged more frequently
than before in funeral meditations, to have antici-
pnt. (I the time of his own departure, and to have
lived habitually under the impression of that truth,
which, in the beautiful language of Cowper, ho
recorded in the Album of his friend Mr. Burdekin,
a short time before his departure from York :—

" Like crowded forest-trees we stand,

And gome are niurk'd to fall;
The axe will smite at God's command,
And soon shall smite us all."

!210 MKMOIRS <>1

CILM'TKR IX.

He unexpectedly receives an appointment to the Licerpooi-
.\ <irth Circuit — Closes his ministerial labours at York,
tnul rixify two of his former stations on his u-ay to Liver
pool — The faithful admonitions which he delivered at
H'jhxjirth — He commences his regular duties at Liter -
pool with his usual zeal, and with hopeful prospects —
If is exemplary attention to private deration — He ad
vances very observably in the Christian life — Extracts
from a letter to the Rev. John Slack — Probable occasion
of his death — Sketch of his last sermon, with ej-fractt
from it — Extracts from a letter to the Rev. Joseph Jen
nings — The severity of his last illness, his deportment
under it, and his truly Christian death — Circumstance!
of his funeral — Reflections.

DURING the Conference which assembled at Liver
pool in 1826, and which Mr. Stoner attended, in
virtue of his office as one of the Secretaries to the
Contingent Fund, he again hecame the unwilling
subject of a discussion similar to that which had
issued in his removal from Birstal. Vigorous efforts
were used to procure his appointment to Liverpool,
and these efforts proved ultimately successful. To
the friends at York, among whom la1 Ir.id explicitly
con-eiited to remain a thiid year, this was perfectly

KKV. l>AVin SiOM.lt. 211

unexpected. They It-It themselves ])aint'ully di>ap-
poiiited. ami deemed it proper to employ every re
spectful and constitutional means to secure his return ;
but, conMdenii<_r the special circumstances and de
mands of Liverpool, and relying on the impartial
judgment of the assembled Preachers, they at length
acquiesced, with much Christian temper, in the deci
sion of Conference. To Liverpool-North, therefore,
Mr. Stoner was appointed, with the Rev. Robert
Martin, and the Rev. Edward Usher; and here, after
the lapse of a few weeks, he closed his honourable
eour-e of labour and usefulness. Such exertions as
wen- urged to obtain his services, first for York, and,
afterwards for Liverpool, forcibly evince the grow-
iii-_r e>timation in which he was held by the Wer-leyan
Connexion ; while the peculiarity of these cases will
excuse, if they do not entirely justify, the conduct
which wa-* pursued. Such cases, however, cannot,
with any propriety, become precedents; nor ought
they to l>f cited by persons, whether official or other-
\\i-c, \\ho may !••• tempted to allure a Preacher from
a >tation to which he is pledged, or to use any un
warrantable influence for the accommodation of their
own Circuits, at the expense and injury of others.

On Mr. Stoner's return from Conference, he began
to make preparations for his departure from York;
but was retarded for a while by the serious indispo
sition of Mrs. Stoner. At length, however, he
terminated his ministerial labours at York for ever,
by preachintr on the -J7th of August, at the opening
of St. ( M-orge's chapel, to the completion of which lie
had looked forward with so much pleasure and hone.

212 MK.MOI US Or THE

On his way to Liverpool, he preached with peculiar
zeal and faithfulness at Birstal, Holmh'rth, and Hat-
ley. He also attended the Missionary Annivei>ary
at Birstal on the 30th of August, — a day on which
the writers of these sheets had the sati-t'uriion
of meeting with him ; little thinking that they
should see him no more until the resurrection of
the just.

At Holmfirth he spent Sunday, September 3d, and
preached three times. In the last sermon, he so fully
delivered his soul in his message, that many of his
hearers said at the time, he had preached another
farewell sermon. His last appeal to them was like
the appeal of a " dying man to dying men," when,
with his peculiar solemnity of look, and with the
deepest and strongest intonation of his voice, he ex
claimed, " I charge you all to meet me at the right
hand of God ! Should I never see your faces again,
1 am ' pure from the blood ' of you all ! I charge
you to meet me at the right hand of God!" The
impression produced upon the congregation was very
powerful ; and it is hoped that many who heard him
then, and who now know that they must hear him
no more, will faithfully treasure up in their hearts
his parting admonitions.

On the 7th of September, he opened his regular
commission at Liverpool, by preaching in the eve
ning of that day at Brunswick chapel. lie was now
in a situation which differed widely from any which
he had occupied in the West Riding of Yorkshire ;
and, perhaps, he felt the disadvantage of having been
confined so long to one limited section of ministerial

RKV. DAVID STONKK. '-' 1 .3

labour. 1 1 is lialiits were formed ; and it seemed to
require some time before he could fully BCOOmmodata
him-cll1 to the manners and customs of the people
among wlioin he was ]>laced. For a short season
his timid spirit suffered acutely; but lie soon hr-an
to cheri>h the kindlier feelings of home-attachment,
lie was received \\ith grateful esteem and affection,
and in the different exercises of his function engaged
with all his heart. He encouraged the band-meet-
he promoted preaching in private houses ; —
he urged the importance of united prayer for richer
effusions of divine influence ; — and in his public
ministrations, he poured out all his soul in earnest
and affectionate entreaty. Twenty-six times he
preached in Liverpool, and its vicinity ; and it is
said that under every sermon some good was done.
The risible effect of his pulpit addresses appears to
have differed, in some respects, from what it had
been in his other stations. In Yorkshire, it often
di-co\cred it<elf in powerful commotion; in Liver-
p«.ol. it \\a< -een and felt in deep, silent, solemn
attention. All seemed impn.^ed hy the peculiar
ardour of his manner, and penetrated, for the time
at lea-t, liy t!:e omnipotent energy of the truths
which lie delivered.

During his >lmrt abode at Liverpool, he was inde-
t'ati-ahly attentive to his private dutic-, and specially
oh-er\ant of the sacred lh>iir- of morning devotion.
lie constantly reseat five o'clock, and .-pent from an
hour to an hour and a half in fervent prayer. He
would then ri-e from his knees, and sing thut
vrr-e, —

214 MKMOIHS OK T11K

" Praise God from whom all blessings flow,
Praise him, all creatures here below ;
Praise him above, ye heavenly host,
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost."

Then again he would " bow his knees unto the
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole
family in heaven and earth is named," and wrestle
in prayer for the church, for the world, and for him
self, until seven o'clock. He would afterwards retire
into his study, and engage in exercises proper for
the place until eight o'clock, at which time he came
down to breakfast. Thus was he prepared to pa-->
with calm, unembarrassed, and devout feeling through
all the duties of the day.

At this period, too, he diligently maintained a
practice which he had generally pursued in his other
station?, and particularly, it would appear, at York,
— that of spending a part of every Sunday evening,
after the public services of the day were concluded,
with Mrs. Stoner and their servant, who was a pious
young woman, in special prayer and intercession for
the prosperity of the word \\liich had been si>(.kr;i
that day, — for the revival and extension of religion
within the sphere of his personal exertions, — and for
a larger communication of divine grace to the church
in all its denominations, and the world in all its
tribes. These were often seasons of peculiar profit,
sealing the labours of the day with fresh exeivi>e< of
piety, and more lively apprehensions of the divine
benignity.

In general, he was about this time unusually copious

HKV. DAN I II -TON KB. - 1 •>

mid fervent i:i his family devotions, often dwelling
with peculiar emphasis on the solemnities of death
and rtfi-nity. For some weeks indeed previous to
his death, all his Christian graces seemed fast ripen
ing into their full maturity. His abstraction from the
world, his union and fellowship with God, his ardent
breathings after spiritual and heavenly enjoyments,
particularly engaged the attention of his most inti
mate friends. They could not refrain from thinking
that he was preparing for some great event, though
they little supposed it would be that which they were
><> in called to mourn.

Shortly after his arrival at Liverpool, Mrs. Slack,
the wife of his late excellent Superintendent, died.
He wrote to Dr. M'Allumon the 29th of September,
and was then in vigorous health. By the same post
he also addressed a letter of affectionate condolence
to Mr. Slack, from whieh the following is an ex
tra, -t: — "I have just heard the melancholy news of
the afflictive dispensation with whieh the Lord of all
has been pleased to vi-it you. Great indeed is your
loss, and great is the loss to your family. I sympa-
thi/e with you, and can mourn with them that
mourn. It brings afresh to my mind recollections
of sorrowful days, through which I was called to
pass, and in whieh you kindly sympathized with me.
May (Jod be \ .ur comforter and stay ! — The loss to
you is irreparable ; — but what a mercy to know that
to the departed it is unutterable gain ! It is the best
of all Mi-sxintfs to die well, and get safely home to
lirnven. This blessing she has attained. Danger is
Her nee is happily concluded. She has won

i51<) MKMOIHS OK TIIF,

tlie victory ; — she has received the crown. But how
little we know of heaven !

' O speak, ye happy spirits ! Ye alone can tell
The wonders of the beatific sight !
\Vhea from the bright unclouded face of God
Ye drink full draughts of bliss and endless joy, —
And plunge yourselves in life's immortal fount.'

— I doubt not but your departed wife and mine liuve
before now renewed their acquaintance in heaven,
and talked over many of the affairs connected with
the friends they have left behind. O that we may
be found ready to join their Messed society. \\ lieiiever
the Arbiter of life and death shall summon us from
the concerns of time ! — I know it is quite needle-*
for me to point out to you sources of consolation.
With these you are far better acquainted than I am.
And with that comfort with which you have com
forted others, may the great Head of the church now
abundantly replenish your own mind ! — Nature will
feel ; — but it is our exalted privilege to have all
the feelings of nature sanctified and blessed to our
increase in holiness. By this means, every drop of
natural sorrow will be mingled with drops of spiritual
comfort and sanctifying grace ; and we, by hallowed
affliction, shall thus be made more meet to be useful
in the church on earth, and glorious in the church
above." — Ten days afterwards he wrote to his sUter,
and, adverting to the sudden departure of Mrs.
Slack, subjoined the simple and touching remark,
" Little, did I think when I shook hands with her
that that hand was so soon to be cold in the grave!"

TIKV. DAVID SIDM--.Il 2l7

We are now arrived at the last mor.th of Mr
Sinner's earthly pilgrimage. On Sunday, the 8Ui of
October, lie preached at Herculnneum Pottery and
:ulit\ after which he re-passed the river Mersey.
The evening was very cold and stormy ; and not
beinir accustomed to exposure in such a situation,
perhaps he was not sufficiently apprehensive of his
from the chilling air, when inactive, and not
very warmly clothed. He appears to have had a
constitutional tendency to disorder in the alimentary
canal ; and from this circumstance, as well as from
the nature of his subsequent sufferings, it is not
improbable that the disease which terminated his
valuable life WHS produced on that occasion. For a
few days, however, he made no complaint, but pur
sued his usual labours with unabated zeal.

On the i veiling of the 13th he preached in a pri
vate dwelling-house, in Naylor-street, from Luke xi.
32 : " The men of Nineveh shall rise up in the judg
ment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for
they repented at the preaching of Jonas ; and, be
hold, a greater than Jonas is here." This was his
•rmon. A copious outline of it has been found
among hi> manuscript; nnd as it affords a just
specimen of the plainness and fidelity with which he
exercised his ministry among the unawakened, and
is connected so closely with his lamented death, it
may not be amiss to insert a general view of its
scope, with one or two extracts from its more pointed
and impn I "ns.

He opens his discourse with a forcible d< <cription
of the divine benevolence of Jesu.-, — a benevolence
n

218 MEMOIRS OF TIIR

which extended to the bodies, and, especially, to tne
souls of the people ; and which admirably disclosed
itself in his public instructions. Sometimes he en
deavoured to alarm his hearers out of their sins, by
solemnly announcing the consequences of transgres
sion ; sometimes to allure them out of their sins, by
the most affectionate appeals to their hearts; — some
times, by the most convincing arguments and power
ful expostulations, to reason them out of their sins ;
and sometimes, as in the text, to shame them ont of
their sins, by comparing their evil conduct with the
good conduct of others who enjoyed inferior privi
lege?. He then argues that the words of the text,
which were applied originally to the unrepenting
Jews, may, on the ground of our superior advantages,
be applied to the impenitent sinners of the present
generation with increased force and accumulated
energy. II'' pmeeeds to institute a comparison be
tween the men of Nineveh and the impenitent sin
ners of his congregation, FIRST, in their sins; where
he particularly instances idolatry, the principle of
which he explains as consisting in the love and
pursuit of any object, visible or invisible, rather
than GOD, — pride, — cbtMicMMM, — luxury, — and ob
scenity. He infers from the prophecies of Jonah and
Nahuni that such evils prevailed unions the Ninevites;
and forcibly states to what an alarming degree they
prevail among us. He pursues the comparison,
SECONDLY, in their irnrnin</ft. Here he remarks,
that the warnings of the Ninevites were delivered by
a fallible man, and he not one of the best of men ;
Out ours are delivered by the Son of God : — that

ni.V. UA\ 1 I) S'lo.N KM. '210

Jonah \\as a strinujfi- to the Ninuvites, and of a
ttruiujr rt lii/ion ; but Jesus is lie \\ hose n:iinc \\e bear,
and \\hosc religion we profess : — that Jonah wrought
r\o miracles, and possessed no siiperiinturn/ < 'ri</<'iirrs,
to prove the truth of his mission • but the uuthority
of ,Ie-iis i> sustain* d by his miracles, by the match-
le-< purity of his life, by the supreme excellence of
his doctrines, an 1 l>y the exact accomplishment, in
hi- person nnd work, of a long succession of prophe
cies: — that Jonah gave the Ninevites but one short
wiirniiiij, and then marched on ; but Jesus gives us
Salibath after Sabbath, ordinance after ordinance,
UK -M -iiu. r after messenger, expostulation after ex-
ji . istulation, \\arniiiLr u])on warning, — he does every-
thinir but force us : — that Jonah placed the danger
of the Ninevites at a distance, the distance of forty
days; but to us not a moment is promised beyond
the proent one : — that Jonali predicted only a tem
poral ctilamiti/ ; but Jesus ('.enounces eternal destruc
tion : — and that Jonah foretold the overthrow o.
Nineveh, without any i:r/>rt:is injiiiirtion to repent ;
but Jesus coiiiiiKiinls. /trot/tin'*, t/irrotriK, does every
thing, in a word, with the merciful and professed
design of Softening our hearts into penitential feeling
and Immhle acknowledgment.- lie dn-es the com
parison, TIIIKDI.V, by tracing their mifixcijiii'tif con
duit. The Nine\ ites A<7/V/W (iail- \mt you ])rac-
tically disMiiTf him: -they tle'cinjed not; but you
dflu i/ : — \\\ey rcjifhti'ii ; Init you remain inifiniitcitt:
— they " wirtl miij htili/ to (,'<»/;" but to this many
of \nu are straixjt-rs. — lie apjilie> the uh^le -ubject,
as one which teache- the inijio
i -J

220 MK.MOIK3 OF THK

— winch affords the Idyliest possible encouruycmi'ttt to
mourning penitents ; — and which presents un aspect
the most awful to such as persevere in impenitence
and sin. — All these topics are accompanied by appo
site citations of Scripture, — clothed with striking
illustrations, — supported by powerful arguments, —
and pointed, in the most direct and faithful manner,
to the consciences of his hearers.

" God," says he, in one part of his discourse,
" has not given you so much as forty days. How
much then has he given you ? Has he given you twenty
days? No. Before the end of ticca fy days, your soul
may be shrieking in hell, ' The harvest is past, the
summer is ended, and we are not saved !' Has lie-
given you ten days? No. Before the close of ten days,
you may be ' weeping, and wailing, and gnashing
your teeth.' Has he given you one day ? No. Before
the conclusion of twenty-four hours, your body may
be a breathless corpse, and your spirit excluded from
the presence, and favour, and smile of God ; and
shut up in darkness and despair, endle>s and hope
less. Has he given you one /tour? No. Before the
termination of this hour, demons may drag your soul
into the regions of torment. Has he given you a
fhii/lc minute? No. Before the expiration of an
other minute, the frail machine may cease to move,
and your spirit be summoned to appear before God.
You have no security of life. You are but tenants-
at-will, who may be cast out without the formality
of a discharge. And yet, strange to tell ! you are
living in impenitence. Suppose, at the solemn hour
of twelve this night, an angel were to appear to you.

KKV. DAVID STONEIl. 221

and inform you from the God of heaven, that at the
end of forty days you must appear at his bar ; —
what would be your conduct? Would you not im
mediately rise I'rom your couch, and cry for mercy ?
Would you rest day or night until you hnd obtained
the ' knowledge of salvation by the remission of
sins .'' If this would be your conduct, though you
were sure of \i\\ngforty days, what ought to be your
conduct when you are not sure of living one day?
Ily what port of reasons can you prove that there is
le~s need of repenting when you have no fixed time,
tliaii then1 would be if you had forty days promised?
It you were sure of \i\ingforty days, you would
repent; but because you are not sure of living owe
day, you will not repent Strange absurdity this!
V. lien the Ninevites had forty days set before them,
they immediately repented ; but you refuse to repent,
though you are not certain of an hour."

"Against you," he observes again, addressing the
impenitent, and adverting to the temporal calamity
which Jonah predicted to the Ninevites, " against you
is denounced an eternal punishment, — the punish
ment of hell. There will be the loss of heaven, the loss
of happiness ;,nd hope; there \\ ill be the wrath of God,
the lashes of a guilty conscience, the gnawings of
unsubdued pass!,, us, the company of the miserable,
the torturings of devils, the suffering of penal fire,
— and an a— iraiice that tln^e pains \\ill he eternal.
If the men of Nineveh repented, to avoid a ft-ir flours'
pain ; what ought your conduct to be with regard to
ettmiil misery? Are the arguments drawn from
eternity less powerful than those drawn from time?

222 MKMOIUS OF THE

Time is momentary duration; eternity is duration
without end. Time is fleeting; eternity is stationary.
Eternity! Reason staggers; — calculation reclines
her weary head ; imagination is paralyzed. The
minds of angels are infinitely too contracted to •_
the mighty idea of eternity. Yet you will not repent,
though urged to it by the solemn warnings which
threaten an eternity of woe."

In that part of his sermon where he dwells on the
immediate and undelayed repentance of the Nim--
vites, he introduces one of those tremendous ami
overwhelming passages for which his ministry was
sometimes remarkable. "If any inquire, why we
so often return with the same topics in our mouths,
— here they meet with an answer : — it is because we
have not such hearers as Jonah had ; it is because
you delay your repentance. We preach the nece >-ity
of repentance, the danger of the sinner, the nearness
of death, the torments of eternal death ; because there
is need of it. If you will all repent, then, like Jonah.
we can comparatively lay such topics aside : hut un
til that time, these tilings we do preach, these things
we must preach, the.-e things \\c will preach, and
these things we dare not do otherwise than preach.
Cease to sin, and we will cease to tell you that Satan
is your master, that hell is your home, and eternal
torment your portion. But if you still delay, — while
our ' three days' journey ' is continued, we mn-t i x-
claim, Yet a few moments, and yon will lie eternally
overthrown ! Yet a few moments, and devils will be
your tormentors ! Yet a few moments, and you will
be enveloped in the curling, sulphureous flames of

HI-:V. DAVID >T()NKR. 0'2TJ

lu-11 ! Yet a few jnoiiients, and your leaky, shuttered
hark will be launched into the stormy ocean of eter
nity ! Hurricanes of fire ami brimstone shall sweep
the infernal deep; and every blast shall howl,
Eternity ! Kvery demon yon meet will shriek, Eter
nity ! A monster shall gnaw your vitals, a monster
with ten thousand tongues ; and every tongue shall
Kternity ! Upon the pates of hell shall be
written in <1 iniiiiir characters, 'To be opened no
more through Eternity ! ' And will you delay your
salvation any longer? Perhaps the thirty-ninth day
-Iiiir; nay, perhaps you have entered upon the
fortieth. Death is whetting his scythe ;— nay, per
haps liis dart is now entering your body ! And are
you still impenitent? O, like the Ninevites, delay
no Ion ire r ! "

During the course of this sermon, and most pro
bably at the time that he was uttering one of
the powerful parnirraplis cited above, he reiterated.
" Vet forty flays, and Nineveh sh:i!l be overthrown !
Vet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown !
Vet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown ! "
- and then added, after a solemn and portentous
pau-e. '• Vet ten (lays, mid perhaps your Preacher
may be a lifele-s e<>rp-e ! " His hearers were deeply
impiv— ed : and when this faithful servant of Christ
expired, precisely at the end of ten days, it is in>t
surprising if ninny thought that a my of prophetic.
li<rht had descended at that moment on his serioup
spirit, and warned him of his early tomb.

In the former part of the next day, the 14th, he
<loei not appear to hav« I,. , n nun h \w>r-e than usual.

224 MKMOIHS OF TUB

He addressed a letter to Mr. Jennings, probably the
last he wrote, in which he speaks of his numerous
engagements and purposes. He laments the spiritual
dearth which reigned around him; but adds, "We
are breaking up fresh ground. I trust we shall
see good done. I feel determined, by the grace of
God, 1o do what I can. Pray for me, that the Spirit
of the Lord may descend upon the barren wilderness.
— Since I began this letter, I have been at the
children's meeting. Have you a children's meet
ing? If you have not, begin one. Call together the
children of your congregation every Saturday after
noon, to catechise them. You will find it extremely
useful. — I hope you are 'growing in grace' and
' knowledge.' Labour in prayer, in reading, in
preaching ; but do not kill yourself, nor hurt your
self. You see I take the liberty of a senior, to give
you good advice. Good advice, if not practised to
the utmost extent, is yet often useful. If it stimulate
a man only to make another effort to do that which
is best, it is not given in vain."

While he was at the children's meeting, mentioned
in the preceding extract, he felt himself much indis-
po*ed, and shortened the service. He does not ap
pear, however, to have been apprehensive of any
immediate danger, but attended the prayer-meeting,
as usual, in the evening. Here the malady, which
had secretly operated in his system for some days,
beir.m to discover itself in an alarming manner. He
became exceedingly ill, and speedily returned home.
The disease was dysentery, accompanied with strong
Typhoid symptoms. A surgeon's attendance was re-

KI.V. UA\ ID siu.x I;K. L2.)

quested ; and, after the ordinary remedies had bee
tried in vain, at hi-< suggestion a physician was called
in. Hut all medical assistance was unavailing. The
mortal hour of this exemplary Minister approached ,
and hi> attendants could only mark the progress and
ravages of a disease, which it was not in their power
to arre-t.

His affliction was extremely severe. It seized him
in the full vigour of manhood, at a time when hi.s
health seemed more established than it had ever been
before, and it was probably irritated and increased
by the vital energy with which it was opposed. His
pain \\tis deep, agonizing, and almost insupportable ;
but no hasty expression of murmuring or complaint
ever escaped his lips. " Patience had her perfect
work." By this excruciating process he was more
entirely prepared tor the presence of the Lord. Long
had he been a " living sacrifice," sealed by the im
press of the divine Spirit, and consecrated on the
holy altar of practical obedience; and when offered
in death, he was found to be " pi* feet and entire,
\\ anting nothing."

From the commencement of hi- illness, lie enter
tained no hope of recovery : but invariably expivs-ed
a -iibmi-Mve desire to " depart, und be with Chri>t."
At one time, his medical attendants held a consulta
tion on Ids case. After the consultation, Mrs. Stoner
entered his room. "Well, Mary Ann," said he,
"\\lnt i- tl.e opinion of the doctors concerning
me .' " "They give but little hope concerning \on,"
was her reply. "What,'' he rejoined u ith evident
pleasure, '• then there is a chance of my getting to

220 MEMOIRS OF THE

heaven this time." On the 19th, upon being visited
by the Rev. Messrs. Newton and Martin, he re
quested them not to pray for his recovery. " If,"
said Mr. Newton, " the Lord has work for you to
do, he will raise you up." " Mr. Newton," he re
plied, " my work is done ! " — To Mr. Usher, who
visited him with kind assiduity, he made the same
request, repeating, with affecting emphasis, " My
work is done ! "

During the whole affliction, he maintained un
shaken confidence in God. To Messrs. Newton and
Martin, in the interview mentioned above, he said,
" I have no overflowing of joy ; but peace, and a
strong confidence in the blood of Christ." — "The
blood of Christ ! the blood of Christ ! " he would ex
claim at intervals. "That blood has washed away
your sins," said Mrs. Stoner. He replied, " I trust
it has."— To Mr. Usher, who inquired if he now ex
perienced the consolations of that religion which ha
had recommended to others, he said, " O yes ; I do.
Praise the Lord ! Christ is precious. I have no
ecstatic joy ; but I have settled peace and strong
confidence."

Amid his severe bodily suffering, it seems that
he was not wholly exempted from the h:i racing as
saults of his spiritual enemies. To the-e he adverted
at one time, when he said, "Satan tills me I i-hall
be a castaway." These assaults, however, failed to
shake his faith, or impair his peace.— He was ;tNn
subject to occasional delirium ; but, in his greatest
mental wanderings, was never heard to utter an
improper word,— a circumstance this which affords a

Id V. DAVID STONER. 2*27

pleasing proof of the spirituality of his mind, and
the purity of his heart.

The former part of the night before he died, he
was in great a irony. Ahout eleven o'clock, he seemed
to be en-raged in prayer; but could not be distinctly
understood. At length he was heard to say, " Praise
the Lord ! " and shortly afterwards, " Lord, help me !
Lord, help me ! Lord, undertake for me ! " repeat
ing the petitions several times; — then, " Jesus, thou
art my hope and confidence for ever and for ever !"
Alter a short slumber, he awoke in extreme pain;
and when it subsided, he exclaimed, " Thy blood
was shed for sinners ! — to save sinners ! ' Christ
Jesus came into the world to gave sinners, of whom
I am chief.' " After a few minutes' pause, he re
peated the following lines :-

" There I shall see his face,
And never, never sin ;
There, from the rivers of his grace,
Drink endless pleasures in."

He slumbered ajain, and, on awaking, desired to
be removed from liis bed. Soon after, he said, "I
cannot see ! " He then sank into a state of insensi
bility, from which lie revived, and asked to be re
placed in bed. On being moved, he said, "I can
see again !'' and added, in a tender and affectionate
tone, "Is she gone? Is she gone without me?"
The laws of the invisible world are to n- inscrutable ;
but it seems not irrational to <u]>]>o*e that, while the
of this excellent man were closing on earthly
objects, he had a mysterious perception of the pre-

•^M M I'. M O I H S OK T II K

sence of some departed friend, — a mother perhaps
or a wife, whom he longed to accompany. He sub
joined, " I fear you have brought me back to the
light of this world again ;" and repeated,

'"I nothing have, I nothing am ;
My glory's swallow'd up in shame :'

but Jesus hath bled, hath died for me. ' Christ Jesus
came into the world to save sinners.' Jesus, thou art
my hope and confidence for ever and ever ! " These
were expressions which he loved to use ; and they
satisfactorily evince his entire reliance on the merits
and mercy of his crucified Saviour.

Immediately after this, he lay for some time as
if his spirit had already taken its departure. At
length, however, he was perceived to breathe, but
very softly, and evidently in much pain. About
three o'clock in the morning, he asked what was the
day of the month. He was told it was Monday,
October 23d. " It will be a happy Monday for me,"
he replied. " I hope it will be a glorious Monday to
me. I shall soon be in heaven." He again desired
to rise, and experienced a recurrence of his former
languor and exhaustion, attended with the convul
sive efforts of expiring nature.

During the morning he had three convulsive fits
in rapid succession. All around him thought that
the last struggle was over. He revived, however,
and called for Mrs. Stoner and his children. To Mr?.
S. he said, " I have been in heaven : how is it that I
have got back again hither?" "What kind of a
plaoo is heaven?" said she. " O, heaven is a benuti-

II KV. DAVID STOXKK. 2:29

fill place," was his reply. Sin- ;i-knl, with trembling
solicitude, if he thought the Lord would raise him
now. " O no," said he : " it is ull over ! " " What
is to become of me, when you are gone?" Hecalmly
answered, " Thy Maker is thine husband ; the Lord
dt' I losts is his name."

He was now frequently delirious ; but when re
collected, his mind dwelt on divine things. " God-
linc-s" he remarked, " is profitable unto all things."
To Mr. I'sher, who took leave of him about eleven
o'clock at night, he said, " Do call again ; — do not
leave me. — Farewell ! I shall meet you again at the
Judgment-day."

The time was now come when this faithful servant
of the Lord must die ; and his death affords a
sublime example of Christian virtue. It admirably
-ponds with the tenor of his useful life. For
tin- salvation of sinners he had lived and laboured.
Solicitude for souls was the ceaseless spring of his
•/••a], acmity, and wasting exertions. He felt the
" ruling pas>i<>ii >trong in death." lie appeared to
forget himself, though on the solemn verge of eter
nity ; to forget his wife, though soon to become a
disconsolate widow; to fin-get hi> two lovely boys,
then passing into the sad destitution of an orphan
state ; — but he remembered sinners. He had slum
bered for some time; — the silver cord seemed quite
loo-t d, and nature sinking in its last decay ; — when,
to the astonishment of even one present, he looked
up, and, summoning all his Mn i.gth to one last effort,
cried aloud, '• Lord ! save sinners ! Save them by
thousands, I.. 'i-d ! Subdue them. Lord ! Conquer
I

230 MEMOIRS OF THR

them, Lord ! '' He reiterated these petitions nearly
twenty times ; — then sank down, reposed his head on
the pillow, and expired without a st rumple or a groan,
a little before twelve o'clock, aged thirty-two years,
six months, and seventeen days. — True soldier of the
cross! "thy years were few, but full: the victim of
virtue has reached the utmost goal and purpose of
mortality."

The sensation which was produced by the intelli
gence of his death cannot easily be described. His
new connexions and acquaintance in Liverpool had
testified their affectionate regard during his illness
by numberless calls of anxious inquiry, and by fer
vent prayers for his recovery ; but when certified of
his departure, they deeply felt the loss which they
had sustained, and mourned over him as a friend
and brother. The feeling excited in Yorkshire was
strongly marked ; — it was a feeling of sudden con
sternation, of poignant grief, and of sharp, though
submissive, regret. In the evening of the day on
which the melancholy information was conveyed to
his lather's house, the compilers of these pages met
each other there ; and, though painfully familiar
with the sad devastations of death, they could not
but enter with peculiar emotion into the circum
stances of this touching case. It was not, howev. r,
a case utterly disconsolate. The bereaved family
acknowledged the hand of God ; and the cheering
light of pious resignation mingled itself with the
dark gloom of grief. The writers found it sorrowful,
yet good to be there ; and, amid the scene which sur
rounded them, experienced the truth of the wi^e

HKV. DAVID STONKU. 'Z"j\

man's declaration, " It is better to go to the house of
mourning, than to go to the house of feasting. —
Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness
of the countenance the heart is made better."

It MUS intended, at first, to deposit his mortal
remains at Barwick, where so many of his departed
connexions repose. Arrangements were accordingly
made to accomplish this object ; but it was found to
be totally impracticable. He was, therefore, in
terred, on the Friday following his death, in the
burying-grovnd connected with the Brunswick
chapfl at Liverpool. Great numbers of people at
tended. An Kppropriato and impressive address was
delivered by the Rev. Robert Newton, and the fune
ral service was read, in a very solemn and moving
manner, by the Rev. Robert Martin. The whole
»— emliK v, ;i- -ensibly touched, and softened into
tears. One of the BOM affecting object-- in the group
of mourner-, i;e\t to Mr. Stoner's widow and chil
dren, was his venerable lather bending over the
grave which enclosed the glory of his family. He
indulged the feelings of a parent, and of a Christian.
IN- Trowed, lint lii- sorrow was relieved and cheered
by hope. If a pagan philo-opher, * during one of
tho-e intervals in which truth -lied a brighter ray on
his expanding mind, could introduce the elder Cato,
hailing the glorious day when he should depart from
this scene of tumult and confusion, ;md repair to the
divine concourse and a— emhly of -ouls ; \\hen, in
particular, he .should go to hi- beloved S(>M, whom he

* Cicero De Senectute, cap. xxiii.

MKMOIRS OF TIIK

J> nl prematurely consigned to the ravages of morta
lity, but whose parting spirit, in its flight to tin;
happy regions, had looked hark upon him with the
tender intimation that their real union wa-> unbroken ;
— while he could, in the mean time, console himself
with the reflection that their separation would not be
long: — with how much greater, because, more en
lightened, confidence, might this Christian father
cherish similar anticipations, and, amid his her* >av» -
ment, triumph in the thought, that heaven was
become the richer for his loss, and the more his
proper home than it had been before !

Funeral sermons were preached in each of the
Methodist chapels at Liverpool, and in all the other
stations which Mr. Stoner had occupied,
crowds attended in every place, to express their
respect for his memory, and to receive another tes
timony of the hallowing direction which religion ^\\ is
to life, and of the powerful support which it minis
ters in death.

Judging according to the measurements and cal
culations of days and years, Mr. Stoner's life \\:is
short; but in assiduous labour and beneficial effects,
it was long, lie performed much in the limited
space which \\as allotted to him. From the time of
his early conversion, lie crowded the different periods
of his earthly exi-tniee \\itli exercises corresponding
to ih. ir requirements. Afte* commencing his pulpit
efforts, he preached four thousand and forty-three
times; not to mention an almost countless number of
exhortation--, advices, and prayer>. linn- lie ]>;i-M'<l
through these duties, the preceding pnges testify. It

KEY. DAVID STONKR. 233

may be safely said of him, that, like Enoch, the
youthful patriarch of the antediluvian world, " he,
being made perfect in a short time, fulfilled a long
time;" and that many Christian Ministers, wiio>e.
life has been lengthened took! age, have, in vigorous
endeavour and extensive success, accomplished far
!»•*- than he. — To himself the change is unutterably
h-:pp\. \VhiIe sorrowing recollection lingers over
the circumstances of his departure, how obvious and
Turning is the Psalmist's sentiment: "As for man,
his day* are as grass : as a flower of the field, so he
tkmrishcth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is
gone ! ''—but with this sentiment let the "everlast
ing mercy of the Lord" be associated. "Life and
inoirniptiini are brought to light." The frail tex
ture which is dishevelled in the blast, and whin n d
in the dust, shall spring afresh ; and, meanwhile. Un
fair flower of spiritual excellency shall bloom in a
milder and better clime, spread its leaves to the un-
civated sun of li^lit and glory, and flourish in Vne
beauties of immortality. '' The hope of the ungodly,"
says an apocr\ phal \\ riter, '' is like thi-tl'-dov\ n that
is bio\Mi aw!i\ with the wind ; like a thin froth that
Udri\en away with the storm; like as the smoke
which is dis|ier*ed here and tin-re with a tempest,
ainlpassfth away as the remembrance of a guest that
tarrieth but a day. But the righteous live for e\er-
more ; their reward also is with tin- Lord, and the
care of them is \\ith the Most High.'"*

* \Vif*lom of Solomon, v. 14, 15.
x 3

M KM OIKS OK THE

CHAPTER X,

A description of his character, containing a brief view,
1. Of his intellectual ability; — strength, soundness,
and activity of mind, —unyielding decision, — and
peculiar facility of adapting his instructions to the
circumstances and capacities of different persons : —
//. Of his reUgious attainments; — enlightened assur
ance, — humility, - pray erf ulness, — habitual faith, —
love, — diligent attention to the performance of erery
practical duty, — and large enjoyment of spiritual
happiness, notwithstanding his constitutional tend
ency to dejection : — ///. Of his more observable
habits ; — external appearance, — seeming repulsiveness
of manner, — taciturnity in company, — free and un
restrained affability among his confidential friends, —
and remarkable exactness in all his plans and pro
ceedings : — IV. Of his pulpit qualifications ; — choice
of subjects, — careful preparation of his sermons, —
style, — mode of delivery, — incessant solicitude t» do
good, — and powerful effect of his ministry. — Con
clusion.

HERE the compilers might finish their ta-k, and
retire 1'rom a field which they trust has yielded both
pleasant and profitable fruit. The character of thw
exemplary man is largely traced in the preceding
pages, where its virtues are disclosed under the
varying yet consistent aspects which they assumed

Pl.V. DAVID STONKK. --•">

in the successive periods of bis life, and are illustrated
by authentic and satisfactory documents. Several
important particulars, however, have been unavoid
ably omitted; and it now appears not improper, in
compliance with the ordinary usages of biography,
to present at one view a combined delineation of
the whole.

To attempt this may expose the writers to the -n<-
piriori of indulging in vain panegyric. Imaginary
excellencies, it may be said, are easily portrayed
under the guise of a real name ; and that is some
times attributed to man which is due only to God.
Against these evils they would religiously guard.
Tliry \\i-h to attire the subject of their affectionate
recollections in no virtue which he did not pi» • M,
und to ascribe nothing to him beyond a diligent and
faithful n.-e of the supplies which he received from a
higher ^ourcc. God is the ''Author of all good iu
man," and it is his >_'lory which appears in examples
of unaffected pirty. He is the rich assemblage of
perfection; — and if it in right to celebrate every
lovely impress which he has stamped on mafi-rin'.
creation, — on the heaven* \\hich shine in hi* splen
dour, and the earth which blooms with his beauty, —
it is certainl\ right to exhibit the brighter and holier
disco \ eries of himself \\ hich are found in the upliitnnl
excellencies of his de\oted servants. These contri
bute to the ai!\anceinent of his praise ; and they may
undoubtedly be. de*crib"d without robbing him of the
" honour due unto his name," or idolatrou-ly exalt
ing the creature.

One obsorvntion the reader himself will have made,

230 MKM01HS OK THE

— that all the gifts which adorn Mr. Stoner's charac
ter, and entitle him to grateful remembrance, flowed
from his religion. But for this, he might have passed
through life unnoted and unknown. Religion called
him forth, routed his latent powers, and gave him
that beneficial influence which he exercised over the
minds of others. It is this which recommends him
to special regard. The soul of man, breathed origi
nally into his earthly frame by God himself, and
destined to an interminable duration, p< i--e--.es asto
nishing energies; and these, as the records of hi-t n-y
largely declare, may be excited by inferior motives :
but it is only when controlled and governed by re
ligion, that they acquire the best and truest dis
tinction. God has "poured the seed of immortality
into the human breast ; " and nothing can be more
delightful than to behold that seed cultivated by his
own hand, and producing a harvest to his praise.

In surveying the INTELLKCTUAL ABILITY of Mr.
Stoner, the first quality which invites our attention
is ntrru,/f/t of mind. Genius, perhaps, he had not; —
whether that term be employed, in its higher sense,
to express the faculty which enlarges the ordinary
bounds of knowledge, and produces the treasure of
original thought, — or confined to its inferior but
significant application, as designating that vigour
of imagination which arrays known truth in new
imagery and felicitous combinations. Some tokens,
indeed, of these properties occasionally appeared in
his productions ; but they were not sufficient to con
stitute character. His mental powers were plain,
masculine, and searching. Nothing which came

UKV. D.VVlD STGMEIl. -^7

v. itiiin tlie ordinary range of human meditation,
created him much difficulty. He could readily iip-
prrhend any subject that was presented tola's notice,
and investigate it with ease and pleasure.

A—ociiited \\ith this was an eminent degree of
wlint has In ! ii denominated soundness of mind. In
the history <>t' the. human understanding, not a few
instance* occur of considerable intellectual talent
debased by irregularity and eccentricity. Perbapi
the mind, not satisfied with its just pretensions, has
aspired to the envied endowments of genius, and,
failing in it- efforts, has at length sought repose in
ilic imitation of its fancied peculiarities. Unable to
attain the thi/itj, it has satisfied itself, and amused
others, by sei/.ing the dift-ct with which it may inci
dentally be shaded. Nothing of this kind appeared
in Mr. Stoner. His judgment was remarkably
cautious, exact, and discriminating. Every one
would have pronounced him to be a man of good
sense. He confined himself within the limits of his
own powers, and nicely examined every point which
fell under his notice. This quality particularly dis
covered it-elf when he selected materials from the
productions of others. His -ernions, often preached
in different places, on the " \Vitne-- of the Spirit,"
and "Christian Perfection," are examples. They
are drawn almost entirely from different parts of the
Works of the Hev. MC-M-S. \\Y-ley and Fletcher, but
are coinpo-t d \\itli excellent judgment. He once
recommended to a friend the compilation of a body
of theology, extracted from the Woiks, and ex p
in the words, of Messrs. Wesley an 1 1'lct IHI. l-'oi

238 MKMOIHS OK THE

such a performance he was himself admirably quali
fied by his sagacity, care, and patience. — It may be
observed, in passing, that to the student of theology
the quality just noted is truly inestimable. He has
no new truth to discover. All his stores are con
tained in the sacred volume. His task, therefore, is
neither to soar into the regions of fancy, nor to op
press his memory with the unoxamined productions
of men, and then dignify the mingled ma<s with the
title of theology ; but to "compare spiritual things
with spiritual," — to trace the system of eternal truth
as it is gradually unfolded in the Holy Oracles, and
to avail himself of every help by patient meditation,
by discriminating skill, and by what is equally a
proof of sound intellect and correct feeling, — prayer
ful dependence on the "Father of lights.''

But the properties already mentioned may exist
unemployed. Many a person possessing sound and
vigorous powers, accomplishes nothing, because he
attempts nothing. Mr. Stoner, however, was dis
tinguished by activity of wind. In his select and
various reading1, — in the diligence \\liich he bestowed
on the composition of every sermon, — and in his per
petual habit of observant thought, he afforded suffi
cient evidence that, in the pursuit of its proper ob
jects, his intellectual faculty was unweariable. The
different manuscripts which he has left are truly
surprising. They contain notices of almost every
thing that transpired in his official proceedings,
collections of facts, remarks, &c. ; and are kept with
such order and regularity as could have been secured
only by a mind that had resolutely shaken off the

RKV. n.vvin STONKR. -•'<!'

shackles of indolence. His ceaseless activity of ob-
scnation, when in the company of others, was not
always apparent. He assumed no sagacity of aspect.
Scarcely anything moved his quiet and settled fea-
turcs. To a superficial spectator he would sometimes
' >-t in abstraction, and almost totally inatten
tive tn \\hat transpired around him, while at the
same moment he was making useful reflections on
everything, however minute. It was partly in con
sequence of this that he possessed so accurate a
knowledge of the human character in its multiplied
varieties, and was so well skilled in touching the
secret springs of motive and action.

His (Ifcisiini of mind was very observable. In his
self-examination-;, indeed, he often complains of in
stability ; but this his most intimate friends could
not discover. His firmness was unshaken. Wherever
he saw the path of duty opening before him, he was
determined to pursue it at the risk of all consequences.
"His stern integrity," says Dr. M'Allum, "was
altoL'i tlicr uncompromising ; he sulfered no worldly
considerations to swerve him from the path of up
rightness." It deserves remark that this decision
was not sustained by mere strength of nerve, nor
was it the forced and feverish decision of occasional
persuasion and excitement ; — it was the decision of
principle,—* decision which, had he lived in the
perilous times of the church, would have assisted him
to make the sacrifices of a confessor, or suffer the
death of a martyr. He had examined his ground ;
he had fixed his choice ; and he was resolved to pro
secute his course through " evil report and

'-240

report." Sometimes his firmness was suspected to
partake, in a small degree, of obstinacy and stupidity ;
— yet this suspicion was grounded chiefly on appear
ance. When just occasion required, he was generally
very yielding ; and if at some times he was not suffi
ciently attentive to the courtesies of social life, it can
only be regretted that his inflexible determination
should have partaken of any such alloy. Where
truth and duty interpose their claims, no man ought
to yield in the smallest particular to counter-solici
tation ; but in things perfectly indifferent, and in
the expression even of h'rm sentiment, much is
unquestionably due to the society in which we live,
Tmd of which we form a part.

Another excellency of Mr. Stoner's intellectual
character disclosed itself in the facility which he
possessed of adapting Iris communications to the
circumstances and rapacities of tJif different persons
with whom he had intercourse. This often appeared
in his epistolary correspondence, but was chiefly
observable in his public teaching. lie studied cha
racter and capacity ; he sought out acceptable and
suitable expressions ; he became " all things to all
men, that he might by all means save some." It
was extraordinary to th<>«e who knew him only
superficially, that one of hi* reserved and retiring
temper could so easily seize the current of thought
which was passing in another's mind, make " mani
fest the secrets of his heart," and present instruction
in that form which at once shed light into the under
standing, and opened all the sources of serious
Tin's perhaps was one cause of the mighty

HKV. DAVID STUNKU. 241

Influence \\hirh his nioiie-t anil unpretending mind
lr.nl ovi r others. The most ignorant could easily
receive instruction from Mr. Stom-r, while the most
skilful were delighted and profited by liis luminous
statrments and comprehensive wisdom. — Upon the
whole, it may be pronounced that the powers of his
mind were solid and useful, rather than brilliant;
and that they were conscientiously and diligently
employed in their proper exercises ; while their
irnprovcni. nt and application ought to teach others
that the proper method of honouring the great
Author of all mind in his gifts, is, not to grasp at
intellectual powers which they have not, but diii-
\ and faithfully to use what they have.

THK Hi.i.uaors ATTAINMENTS of Mr. Stoner
were of no ordinary cast. "His pi< ty," says Mr.
KntwMe. " was deep and genuine. He was entirely
devoted to God." " Everything," observes Dr.
M'Allum, " bespoke him a whole-length Christian ;
one \\lio desired that his entire conversation, and
life, and temper, should be spiritual and unearthly."
— It will not be unprofitable to take a separate view
of some of the more prominent features by which his
religious character \\;i- (INtingui-hed.

One of these was his enliijhteni'd assurance. He
regarded Christianity not as a s\stem of conjecture,
doubt, and uncertainty, but of bright and cheering
testimony, conveying to the soul of the believer u
ini_r e\ ideiice ot' the reconciling mercy and per-
prfual favour of God. He could not, therefore, be
content without an humble assurance of his accept
ance in Christ, and of the growing renovation of hid
I

242 MEtfOIIlS f>K THK

nature. From the period of his sound and scriptural
conversion, he endeavoured to lay his foundation in
light, and to seek light in its purer effusions and
more powerful efficacy. Nor was he disappointed.
He proved the truth of that saying, " Blessed is the
people that know the joyful sound : they shall walk,
O Lord, in the light of thy countenance."

The doctrine of assurance has been said to engen
der pride. This groundless allegation will not be
advanced in the case of Mr. Stoner. In him scrip
tural assurance was associated with the deepest self-
abasement. He was eminently " clothed with humi
lity." The records which he has left of his religious
experience sufficiently testify how vigilant he was
to guard against the first approaches of pride, and
how accustomed to sink into the depths of his own
nothingness, and rise to the most devout and reve
rential apprehensions of the divine purity and
majesty. Sometimes his humility seems to have
been employed by his spiritual adversaries to his
discouragement ; and it certainly concealed from
others many of the attainments which he possessed.
" He was little," remarks Dr. M'Allum, " very lit
tle, in his own eyes. Self-abasement was in him
habitual ; and, from a certain constitutional sad in •--.
would have sunk him into despair, but for the emi
nent measure of grace with which he was blessed."
— His humility discovered itself to others, in a very
observable manner, amid the popularity which he
possessed as a Preacher. Of that popularity he
seemed quite unconscious. So fully was his soul
engrossed by other things, that he had no attention

REV. DAVID 5TONER. 243

to bestow on public commendation. " His eye,"
observes Mr. Entwisle, " was single. When with
me at Bradford, he was the most popular of all I
have known in his regular Circuit work ; but I
could never perceive that his popularity gratified
him. I have frequently known him reprove people
for leaving their own places of worship to hear him.
He felt his responsibility to Gotl ; he longed for the
salvation of souls ; he 'travailed in birth until Christ
was funned in them;' and was unconcerned about
the praises and censures of men. In all my inter-
ciiur-e with him for two years, — and he resided next
door to me, — I never heard a word, or observed a
look, attitude, or any other circumstance, which in
dicated aught tending to vanity, self-seeking, or the
de-ire of honour that conieth from men. — lie fixed
the standard of Christianity and of the Christian
mini>try very hiirh, and seemed to himself to come
HO far short of what he should be and enjoy as u
Christian, and a I'reaeher, that he was often dis
couraged. Not uufrequently, when he was ap
plauded by others, and justly so, he was employed
in humbling himself before God. He thought very
meanly of liU he>t performances." Similar obser-
vatiniis \\riv made on his temper and conduct in all
his other *taiion-. I le e\er loved to hide himself in
the dust In tore (Jod, and to slum the commendation
of man. What is slid of an illustrious senator of
»!;tii|itity, may he ju-tly applied to him. " He rather

ed to be, than to appear, good."*
* " Esar, quam videri, bonus malebat." Sallust. Bell.
L -,'..:., cap. i I.

r 2

241 MKMOIKS OF TKK

Humility is the parent of prayer; and of Mr.
Stoner's unceasing attention to this duty, no person
who has read the preceding pages of these Memoirs
can be ignorant. Prayer mingled itself with all his
studies and exertions. In private, in his family, in
public, he was continually a man of prayer. If all
the time could be calculated which he spent in the
direct performance of this duty, it would amount to
no inconsiderable portion of his life. He was un
wearied in recommending prayer to others, as one
who knew from experience its mighty efficacy.
"Prayer," says Tertullian, "conquers the Uncon
querable, and binds the Omnipotent : this violence
is pleasing to God." It is the means by which he
has appointed that his people shall prevail with him.
So Mr. Stoner often found it. Of his attention to
public prayer-meetings much has already been said.
" Wherever it was practicable," says the Rev. Wil
liam Clegg, " it was usual with him to hold prayer-
meetings after his sermons: and on these occasions
he would pray twice, or thrice, or oftener, as if he
was in an agony, that God would pour out an over-
\\helming influence upon the people, in order that
the ignorant might be convinced, the guilty pardoned,
and believers established in faith and love. I was
with him once or twice at meetings of this kind ; ami
if the powers of recollection continue, never shall I
forget what I felt, and heard, and saw." — " He
might indeed be. said,'' remarks Mr. Entwisle, "to
' give himself unto prayer.' Ha prayed and wn siled
earnestly with God for his presence and unction, and
tor a blessing on his labours. To this ought to b«

RRV. DAVID STONER. 24")

attributed the extraordinary power, and unction, and
success of his public ministrations." His last breath
was praver.

Fnit/i also was a very prominent part of his re
ligious character; — not merely in its occasional acts;
but in its habitual and constant exercise. He largely
•-•d the " spirit of faith." Hence he continu
ally sought to know God's will, gave explicit credit
to every declaration of his word, and reposed the
full confidence of his soul on the merits of his cruci
fied Redeemer. With the holy Apostle, he could
gay, " I am crucified with Christ : nevertheless I
live ; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me ; and the lite
which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of
the Sun (it'(ii)d. who loved me, and gave himself for
me." His faith constantly acknowledged the pro-
mi-es which speak of an abundant communication of
divine influence. Of this he had enlarged and ele
vated views, and diligently sought it for himself and
for others. His firm faith in the power and agency
of the Holy Spirit manifested itself in all his public
work, and gave an uncommon force to his pulpit
ministrations. He preached in faith ; and, very often,
"according to his faith, it was done unto him."

For every exercise of love, that crowning virtue of
the Christian character, he was truly exemplary.
His love to God was a feeling of supreme veneration,
of e\du-i\e preference, of filial attachment, of calm
delight, and urin-ei\e<l MthmisMon. The habitual
language of hi> soul was, " Whom have I in heaven
but thee? and there is none upon earth that 1 de-ire
beside thee." — His love to his fellow Christians was
Y 3

246 MKMOlllS 01 TI1K

a love of sincere fraternal affection. He regarded
them as brethren in Christ, and entered with peculiar
interest into all the pleasures of communion \\ifh
them. To himself no ordinances were more desirable
or profitable than meetings of spiritually-minded
believer?, for the purposes of prayer and Christian
fellowship. At such meetings, whether he declared
what God had "done for his own soul," or listened
to the simple and impressive statements of others, he
felt himself more than usually at home. — His love to
sinners was an ardent and unceasing compassion.
Painfully aware of the miseries, present and future,
to which they are exposed, he thought no sacrifice
too severe, no effort too great, no prayer too fervent,
if he might only be the honoured instrument of savins;
one soul from death. This sentiment attended him
through life, and, as has been related already,
breathed itself forth in the last words which fell from
his dying lips.

His diligent attention to the performance of every
practical duty ought not to escape remark. In all
things that related to personal holiness, of life as well
as of heart, he was an instructive pattern. " He
thought of no abatement," says Dr. M'Allum, "from
the sterling weights of the sanctuary ; and though he
was far enough from hoping for justification by the
works of the law, he never doubted that we are
called to perfect holiness in the fear of the Lord, and
that grace is all-sufficient to that end." — In the dis
charge of relative duty, as a son, a brother, a husband,
a father, a master, he was eminently amiable and
faithful, specially caring for the spiritual interests of

nr.v. DAVID >-i-iN Kit. -J 17

nil with whom he was connected. Dr. M'AlIum
particularly mentions the care which he bestowed on
the religious education of his children. He was also
uncommonly assiduous in performing the pastoral
duties of his office, in spite of the timidity nnd re
luctance of his nature. To the sick and poor he was
uncommonly attentive. " Indeed," to adopt the
testimony of Mr. Entwisle, "in every part of his
work as a Methodist Preacher, he was habitually
diligent. He practically attended to that rule of a
Helper, ' Never be unemployed. Never be triflingly
employ.!. Never while away time.' His application
uling, study, and prayer, in reference to his
great work, \\ as prodigious. He seemed to grudge
every moment that was not employed to some good
purpose. A very large proportion of his time was
spent in his study ; and yet to visit a sick person, or
to assist his colleague in any way whatever, he would
at any time quit his beloved retirement with cheerful
promptitude. He attended to every part of Me
thodism, lie observed every movement, and was
always ready to cheek evil, and promote good. In
the year livjl, I \\a- about three months from home,
in Ireland, &r. We had been blessed with a
increase to our son'i -tie-, and the young converts
wanted miring. He wrote to me frequently, and
mentioned everything of importance that occurred,
whether plea-ini: or painful : <o that I ua- nearly as
well acquainted witli the state of the societies as if I
had been \\ith him. In a word, lie uniformly gave
himself to the work of a Methodist Preacher, IxUh
in public ami private."- It night to be added. thiit,

248 MEMOIRS OF THK

in the exercise of pecuniary charity, he was remark
ably liberal. Limited as his income was, he in
variably appropriated a certain portion of it to
charitable uses, and would not, on any consideration,
employ that sum for other purposes. Dr. M'Allum,
who was intimately acquainted with his proceed ii)Lrs,
emphatically pronounces him, " a truly generous
man ;" and adds, " A more cheerful giver I never
knew."

In closing the review of his religious character, it
may be confidently affirmed that he enjoyed a large
portion of spiritual happiness. He had indeed a
constitutional bias to dejection, and he suffered much
from the various trials by which the Christian is
assailed in his earthly warfare. Yet his was a reli
gion of heartfelt peace. " Light is sown for the
righteous;" and from that seed he was enabled to
reap a blessed harvest. Amid all the changes of life,
and variations of feeling, he generally retained a
clear evidence of his heavenly Father's love ; — he had
free access to the throne of grace ; — and he could
rejoice in hope of future glory. There were seasons
when his head was more plentifully anointed with
the "oil of gladness," and when his cup of blessing
ran over. At such times, he felt the well of living
water which had been opened in his soul, springing
up, with more copious and refreshing supplies, " into
everlasting life;" he tasted of a secret joy, with
which the stranger-world does not intermeddle, — a
joy, unspeakably " superior to the wanton levity of
mirth, calm, silent, and solemn; the sublime fruition
of truth and virtue." In true spiritual repose, and

I!KV. DAVID STOM.K. -J41)

in the enjoyment of that high felicity for which man
v. a- horn, one hour of Mr. Stoner's happy inter
course with God would outweigh an age spent in the
pleasures of sin. To that comprehensive saying lift
could without hesitation affix the seal of his personal
experience, " The ways of wisdom are ways of pleu-
stntness, and all her paths are peace."

I'o mention a few of his more observable HA HITS
i;;.iy assist in conveying a full view of the man. He
was tall in his person, and extremely plain in his
<!n s>. His countenance was expressive of a serious,
devout, and sensible mind ; — but his general appear
ance was i ather uninviting. There were few persons,
who hud heard of his excellencies only by report,
that did not feel a slight disappointment when they
first saw him. He resembled "a rich stone set in
lead;" and it was necessary to have some acquaint
ance with him, in order to know his real value.

His srfHihiif rrjmlsiveness of manner, especially to
< mire strangers, was often remarked. "The first
thought which occurred to any one," says Dr.
M'Allum, "on being introduced to him, was, 'He
is a man of an austere look ; and his words are abni pt
to the verge of harshness.' " This, however, could
only be a first impression. "It soon appeared to
those," adds the Doctor, "who were privileged with
his friend-hip, that this austerity of look and man
ner anise from nothing haughty or repulsive, selfish
or unkind, in his temper; hut was produced by a
eel-tain diffidence and distrust of himself, which made
him -hrink from society ;t> anxiously ;l< tumiy seek
it. There was a constitutional ivser\e about him,

'2i>0 MKMOIIIS OF THE

only to be broken through by long acquaintance
and much perseverance ; and when at length any one
succeeded in making him at ease, his spirit was felt
to be as kindly and agreeable as it was devoted and
alive to God." From his private papers it sufficiently
appears how much the infirmity above mentioned
distressed his own mind, and how earnestly he
desired to be delivered from it. It is probable that
his struggle against it terminated only with his life.

To the above must be added, his remarkable taci
turnity in mixed company. It seemed almost im
possible to draw him out. in conversation. This
defect also, which flowed from the same cause with
the former one, he sincerely lamented ; but he could
not entirely subdue it. "Often," said he, " have I
[•need my room for hours, wondering how the pro
vidence of God had ever brought me into so public
a station, for which my temper is so little fit ; for if
my life depended upon it, I could not feel at ease with
more than a few." " He sat in bondage and pain,"
observes Mr. Entwisle, "especially if the company
was large and respectable. Some persons were
grieved, and almost offended, at his reserve. So
they termed it. But I can say, without hesitation,
that, on such occasions, he generally felt much more
pain tluin others."

In the society of a few confidential friends, how-
< vi r, he was eminent for a free and unrestrained
affability. His company at such times was ex
tremely agreeable. There was an uncommon bland-
ness in his countenance, tone, and manner. He
abounded in anecdote, and sometimes indulged in

TU.V. DAVID STOM--.lt. 261

a considerable degree of innocent pleasantry and
humour. His taciturn temper seemed entirely to
forsake him, and he laid open with the most unsus
pecting confidence the secret recesses of his heart
UN familiar associates were, therefore, very warmly
attached to him, and seemed to retain no impression
of that bashful and retiring demeanour, which others
could not but observe.

The exactness which he observed in all his plans
nnd proceedings, may not improperly be mentioned
IKTC. He possessed, in an extraordinary degree, the
love of order. A slave to regularity indeed he was
not ; but he successfully pressed it into his service.
All things were judiciously, but not servilely, ar
ranged ; and so diligently had he attended to accuracy,
that it appeared even in the most minute particulars.
In all his manuscripts, which were, of course, pre
pared only for his own use, there are very few
erasures ; — in the short-hand with which they nre
largely intrr-:prrsi'd, there is scarcely a single in.
stance of deviation from the system which he had
adopted, or of mistake ; and, so far as the writers
have examined them, not one example of false spell
ing. These things, trivial as they may be deemed
by some, show his habitual exactness, and afford an
instance of the possibility of being regular without
stiffness, and correct without servility.

Of his PULPIT QUALIFICATIONS it remains that a
short account be given ; and after the observations
which have been advanced in different parts of the
Memoirs, a short account will suffice.

In the rhrtirr of //is unhffrff, he was very con-

2.TJ MEMOIRS OF THK

scientious and curefnl. His inquiry was not, Wlmt
subject will afford the amplest scope for theolo
gical research, bring forth to greatest advantage
the materials of my reading, or give the richest
variety to my public ministrations ? — but, What sub
ject is likely, by the blessing of God, to be most
useful ? To this point he confined his attention. The
greater part of his sermons were of an awakening
character, for that was his special talent ; — several
were employed in recommending the privileges of
the Christian, and particularly in enforcing entire
holiness; — and not a few were devoted to the cheer
ing and encouraging topics of evangelical consolation .
All the texts from which he ever preached are re
corded in the books which ho kept for the purpose,
and they furnish an admirable collection of appro
priate passages for the pulpit.

On the 'preparation of his sermons b« bestowed
much care. Latterly, indeed, he seems, on some
occasions, to have penned only a few short notes ;
but his general practice was to write the whole, or
nearly the whole, at full length. To this practice,
not commendable certainly in every case, he had
been partly led, in early life, by a fear that he should
not have a sufficient degree of self-possession in the
pulpit to command suitable language ; and he had
by degrees formed it into an easy habit. Fluent
indeed as lie was, when he had made his usual pre
paration, it may be questioned whether he would
have excelled as a purely extemporary speaker. On
the Missionary platform, where extemporary ad
dresses are almost indispensable, he was not at all

IlKV. DAVID STONKU. 2->3

extraordinary ; though no man could feel more
dot-ply concerned than he for the conversion of the
heathen world. It ought to be remarked that his
sermons suffered nothing, in point of effect, from the
exact manner in which they were prepared. They
had all the life and vigour of earnest and unpreme
ditated address. It is only necessary further to say,
that every sermon was skilfully arranged ; — crowded,
sometimes perhaps to excess, with useful matter ; —
and adapted, in all its parts, to furnish instruction,
and produce conviction.

" The style of his discourses," observes Dr.
M'Allum, "was remarkably simple, pure, and force
ful, lie was never coarse or vulgar ; but he was
easy to bo understood. His words were all of them
sought out and selected, on the principle of being the
most familiar in which his ideas could be conveyed.
For the same reason, his sentences were short, and
clear in their structure ; neither loaded nor involved,
but perspicuous and intelligible. He no more thought
that what was perspicuous must be superficial, than
that what was perplexed must be profound. His
style was not meager, but enriched with the purest
and most classical terms which the example of the
best writers has sanctioned among us. His were
right words, and full of force ; they had all the
energy of compactness, of an equal structure that
labours under weakness in no one part ; they were
condensed to energy and precision : he never mis
took size for vigour, nor sacrificed specific gravity to
bulk." To the remarks of this excellent judge of
composition, it maybe subjoined that Mr. Stonerliy

2o4 MEMOIRS OF THE

no means affected the laconic style. In the opinion
of some, his diction was copious to an extreme. Yet
Mr. Turton has correctly observed, that scarcely
anything was really " redundant." " Expressions
nearly the same in sense, were employed in a very
skilful manner, each succeeding one adding soim-
thing to the beauty and force of what had gone be
fore;" — an observation this which the writers have
repeatedly had occasion to make in the examination
of Mr. Stoner's manuscripts.

His mode of delivery was quite consistent with his
general habits. He was deeply serious. He had
little or no action, except a slight inclination of the
body forward in the more animated parts of his dis
course. At all times he was earnest, but never vo
ciferous. It has already been mentioned more than
once that his utterance was rapid ; — yet not unplea
santly so. "Though rapid," observes Dr. M'Allum,
" it was perfectly clear j every word fell full and
distinct upon the ear ; and its very rapidity fixed
attention, and by that means gave the more effect to
his discourse." In securing attention indeed he was
remarkable. Some parts of his delivery, if judged
by the rules of rhetoricians, would be pronounced
defective ; but its defects were forgotten amid tin-
deep and fixed regard which he excited. "1 hav<-
seen numbers of his hearers," says Mr. Turton,
" rise almost involuntarily soon after he has begun
his sermon, and remain on their feet to the end, su
powerfully attracted by what they were hearing that
they seemed unable to sit down."

No person could attend his ministry, cither regu-

RKV. DAVID STONKR. •-!•"'•">

larly or occasionally, without being struck uith his
inri'sffint solicitutli- to do good. Every other con
sideration was swallowed up in this. " His prayer,"
remarks Dr. M'Allum, "was, 'Never may I preach
one useless sermon;' and the sermon under which
l>elie\ers were not strengthened, or sinners awakened,
was, he thought, an useless one. With all his heart,
soul, mind, and strength, ho aimed at usefulness;
and especially at awakening, quickening, and inform-
in <; the conscience ; and that not merely in the appli
cation of his discourses, but throughout the whole of
them, from the commencement to the close. The
sword he wielded was of keen edge from the hilt to
the point. — There was a certain peculiarity in his
sermons. At the close of a paragraph, he would utter
a petition suited to the tenor of it. After describing
holiness in any of its beauties, for instance, he would
exclaim, 'The Lord sanctify each of us!' Or, after
describing tlic displeasure of God in any one of its
frowns, lie would pray, ' The Lord save us from the
w nith to conic !' — Knowing the terrors of the Lord,
he persuaded men ; and preached as one who had
death and judgment, heaven and hell, full in his eye;
sis if thi< was the latest and the only opportunity of
winning trophies to redeeming power, and of pluck
ing brands from the burning. The thought of .-<-lt' en
tirely disappeared in the great business of delivering
his message, and gaining attention to it. In his pul
pit appearance-, there was no one thing which could
lie mi-taken as indicating a theorist, or a feeling of
the honour that cometh from man. On the contrary ,
he laboured instantly like one overwhelmed with the

256 Ml.MOIRS OF THE

conviction, that souls were now perishing, and that
this was the only clay of salvation. — The hearer was
never allowed to think of thePreacher, or of the com
position ; all his thoughts and concerns were forced
in upon himself; and he went away paying, not,
' What a great sermon have I heard ! ' but, ' God be
merciful to me a sinner ! ' Appeal following appeal
lightened upon the conscience, revealing at once the
darkness and the light ; the • strong man ' trembled
to be dispossessed of his goods ; but bolt succeeded
bolt till the building was shaken from the foundation
to the corner-stone. To appearance, he put all liis
strength into every sermon. Spiritual profit, the
utmost profit, and present profit, was the thing aimed
at, and by the blessing of God secured to most, by
his sermons. The ruling passion, the ceaseless spring,
the vehement thirst of his soul was to do good. The
zeal of the Lord ate him up : it was a fire in his
bones ; it was a torrent on his lips ; for the mouth
of the just is a well-spring of life. When there was
a prospect of doing good, he conferred not with
rlesh and blood ; for he loved the Lord with all his
strength ; and hence, after preaching thrice, and
travelling in the country, he has often spent some
hours in a prayer-meeting ; frequently engaging in
prayer, in exhortation, and in praise. His zeal was
not mere excitement ; it was a stream whose strength
is not in its current merely, bit in its volume ot
uater." — « In the sermons I heard from him,'' re
marks Mr. Clegg, " there was no appearance of
design to preach in a learned, eloquent, or eccentric
manner ; but to pour out as rapidly as possible, a

REV. DAVID STONER. 257

torrent of divine truth into the heads and hearts of
nis henrers; and then to direct it in various streams
to their different characters and consciences ; com
monly concluding his numerous applications with
:. fervent prayer to God, that he would make his
word effectual to the salvation of the people. In
short, whether he preached in aid of Missions,
Chapels, or Sunday-schools, he seemed to aim di
rectly at the great object of his ministry, — to ' turn
In- hearers,' at the time he addressed them, 'from
darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto
(iod.' His preaching had not only a tendency to do
good to sinners and private Christians, but also to
Ministers of the Gospel. It was scarcely possible for
them to hear him without feeling the vast importance
of a faithful ministry, and forming purposes to be
more urgent in the great work of 'winning souls.'"
That the effect of such a ministry should be un
usually ftiirrrfiil, is not surprising. Of Mr. Stoner
it may emphatically be said, that "by manifestation
of the truth lie commended himself to every man's
conscience in the sight of God." He was an honoured
instrument in the edifying of Christian believers, and
the comer-inn of hundred*, perhaps thousands, of
.-inner*. " l-'t \\ men," oh-rr\es Mr. Kntwisle, "since
the commencement of the work of Cod under the
name of Methodism, have him -o successful in the
conversion of >inner- from the 'error of their ways.'
I -peak from my own knowledge on this subject.
l)iiriii'_r the t \\o\ear- we \vre together at Bradford,
a eivaf i. umber, I will not presume to say how many,
convinced of sin under hi- preaching. The

258 MEMOIRS OF THE

hand of God was eminently with him." — "When I
went to the Keighley Circuit, in 1822," says Mr.
Clegg, "I soon found that I was surrounded by per
sons who were attributing their spiritual con\rr>ion
and happiness to his instrumentality; and that he
was very popular through all the country around.
But this popularity was of the very best kind. God
had been pleased to honour him with such amazing
usefulness at Bradford, and other places in the neigh
bourhood, that the people crowded in immense num
bers to hoar him. They esteemed him as an extra
ordinary messenger from God. They went to hear
him with religious feeling and ardent expectation,
hoping and praying that God would there and then
pour out his Holy Spirit in a rich effusion, and
greatly revive and extend his work : and, so far as I
liiid the opportunity of observing, they were not
disappointed."

And here the writers conclude their record of the
life and ministry of DAVID STONER. Short as was
his temporal day, they doubt not that he will oc
cupy an honourable place among them who having
''turned many to righteousness," shall ">hine as
the stars for ever and ever." He has "died in the
Lord." lie " rests from his labours, and his works
do follow him." It is a cheering reflection, that
(!• il, \\lio -live him for a season to that section of
his church to which he was united, can easily raise
up others such as he. The " residue of the Spirit is
wit'h him." Let prayer be offered that he would
furnish a succession of faithful and zealous Ministers,

HKV. DAVID STONE It. !_'."> 0

whose truiiij.i t,— whether tliey pnbli.-h an alarm to
sinners, — suniuion the " sacramental host of his
elect" to warfare, — or invite them to share in tlie
festivities of his love, — shall give no "uncertain
sound;" but who shall continue from time to time to
utter the powerful and distinct notes of evangelical
truth and mercy, until another trumpet shall pour
its awful sounds through the immensity of spun-,
rou*e the dead to life, and usher in the "great and
terrible day of the Lord."

That day approaches. The providential govern
ment of God moves on amid the fluctuations and
changes of time : — it is guided, beyond the conception
and control of man, by his own wisdom, power, and
love;— and it will, ere long, be consummated to the
" praise of his glory." All mysteries shall then be
unravelled ; — the righteous destiny of every rational
and accountable intelligence shall be fixed ; and
nothing shall continue but solemn, eternal, un
changing reality.

" It remains," to adopt the sentiments of the most
eloquent of the Latin Fathers,* "that we exhort all
to embrace wisdom and true religion, the powerful
obligations of which require us to despise earthly
objects, to renounce the errors by which we were
formerly en-laved, when we served and coveted
peri-liable enjoyments, and to diu-ct our full attention
to the everlasting rewards of the heavenly treasure.
To obtain the-c, the enticing pleasures of tin.- pn M nt
life, \\bich captivate the minds of men by their p«-r-

* LacUntius, ivtli lust., lib. vii. 27.

260 MEMOIRS OF TUT.

nicious sweetness, must immediately be relinquished.
How highly ought we to estimate the felicity of re
tiring from the disorders of the earth, and repairing
to him who is our most equitable Judge and most
indulgent Parent, who bestows rest for labour, life
for death, for darkness light, and for advantages
which are earthly and fleeting, such as are eternal
and heavenly ! With these the sufferings and dis
tresses which we endure in this world, while we per
form the works of righteousness, can by no means
be equalled or compared. — It is, then, the indispen
sable duty of all to give diligence, that their feet
may be guided without delay into the right path,
and that having commenced and perfected their
virtues, and patiently borne the toils of this life, they
may be accounted worthy to enjoy the consolation
of God. For our Father and Lord, who founded
and established the heaven, who lighted up the sun
and stars, who, poising the earth by its own magni
tude, fortified it with mountains, encompassed it by
the ocean, and intersected it with rivers, who, in a
word, moulded and completed out of nothing all that
exists in this fabric of the universe, — he, surveying
the errors of men, has sent a Leader to open to us
the way of righteousness. Him let us all follow ;
him let us hear ; to him let us render devoted
obedience ; for he only, as Lucretius says,

1 \Vith truth-instilling words the soul of man
Has purged, the bounds of wishing and of fear

Pointed precise, and show'd

The good supreme we all would faia possess

HKV. DAVID 8TONKH. 2^1

Has oped its essence, h»s the path disclosed,
Narrow but straight, that leads us where it dwells.'0

I.- r us forsake the path of fraud and perdition, in
which death lies concealed under the blandishments
of pleasure. Let every one who, while his years are
verging to age, sees that day approaching in which
he must remove from this life, consider how pure he
may depart, and how spotless he may approach his
Judge. Let him not imitate those who, in the blind
ness of their minds, even when the strength of their
body is already failing, and they are warned by tliis
of the pressing approach of their last extremity, are
devoting themselves more greedily and ardently than
ever to the gratification of their immoderate desin •*.
From this gulf let every one escape while lie may,
while the opportunity is afforded, and let him turn
to God with his whole heart; that he may securely
await that day in which the Governor and Lord <>f
the world shall pronounce judgment on every man's
deeds and thought*. Let him not only disregard,
but flee, the earthly things \\hich others eagerly
desire, and judge that his soul is of far greater value-
than those fallacious advantages. The possession of
them is uncertain and frail : they are flitting daily,
jtud depart much more swiftly than they came: and
\rt it' we were allowed to enjoy them even to the
la*t, we mii-t certainly thru re-iyn them tn others. —
Ilr \\ill be found truly rich before God, who main-
temperance, nirrcy, patience, charity, fiitli.

* Lucretius, lib. vi. 22 — 27. Good's translation
lit) ml.

'J62 MEMOIRS OP THE REV. D. STONER.

This is our heritage, which cannot be torn from one,
or transferred to another. And who is he that would
secure these benefits for himself? Let them who
hunger come, that, filled with celestial food, they
may satisfy their continual famine : let them who
thirst come, that they may draw the water of salva
tion in richest draughts from a perennial and celestial
spring. Supplied with this food and drink of God,
the blind shall see, the deaf shall hear, the dumb
shall speak, the lame shall walk, the foolish shall be
wise, the sick shall enjoy health, and the dead shall
revive. Whoever, in the prosecution of heavenly
virtue, shall have spurned the corruptions of earth,
him the supreme and veracious Judge will raise to
perpetual light and life. Let no person confide in
riches, in civil dignities, or even in royal power :
these things give not immortality. For every one
who has abandoned the reason of man, and, in pur
suit of present objects, has prostrated his nobler
powers in the dust, shall be punished as a deserter
from his Lord, his Commander, and his Father. Let
us then vigorously aim at righteousness, which as an
inseparable companion will alone conduct us to God;
and while the vital spirit governs these limbs, let us
war an unweariable warfare for God ; let us keep our
stations and watches ; let us valiantly engage with
the enemy, whom we know ; that rising into victors,
and triumphing over the vanquished adversary, we
may obtain from the Lord that recompence of virtue
which he has promised."