Divine Conduct, or The Mystery of Providence

Accordingly, at his desire, I came that morning and found him in a most serious frame. I prayed with him, and then the wound in his stomach was opened, but by this time the Ventricle it self was swoln out of the orifice of the wound, and lay like a livid discoloured Tripe upon his body, and was also cut through; so that all concluded, it was impossible for him to live; however they stitched the wound in the stomach, enlarged th• Orifice, and fomented it, and wrought it again into his body, and so stitching up the skin, left him to the dispose of Providence.

Accordingly, at his desire, I came that morning and found him in a most serious frame. I prayed with him, and then the wound in his stomach was opened, but by this time the Ventricle it self was swoln out of the orifice of the wound, and lay like a livid discoloured Tripe upon his body, and was also cut through; so that all concluded, it was impossible for him to live; however they stitcht the wound in the stomach, enlarged th• Orifice, and somented it, and wrought it again into his body, and so stitching up the skin, left him to the dispose of Providence.

But so it was, that both the deep wound in his throat, and this in his stomach healed: and the more dangerous wound sin had made upon his soul, was, I trust, effectually healed also. I spent many hours with him in that sickness; and after his return home, received this account from Mr. Samuel Hardy, a Minister in that Town. Part whereof I shall transcribe.

Dear Sir, I Was much troubled at the sad Providence in your Town; but did much rejoice, that he fell into such hands for his body and soul. You have taken much pains with him, and I hope to good purpose. I think, if ever a great and through work were done such a way, it is now; and if never the like, I am persuaded now it is. Never grow weary of such good works. One such Instance is (methinks) enough to make you to abound in the work of the Lord all your days, &c.