The last visitation

And now I thank you. Sir, I remember a thing wantonly done towards you, pointing at one present. You sent me a knife for a new-years-gift; and I tied two verses to it, and sent it back: I pray pardon me if any thing— For mine unconsiderate speeches in the time of my tentations, I heartily and humbly ask forgiveness. You did then (saith one) seem to rely ⟨p. 57⟩somewhat upon inherent righteousness, as if you sought in your self whereby you should be saved: Indeed we knew your conversation to be unreprovable: No I dare not affirm it: I trust in nothing but in the name of Jesus. Have you any certainty in him? I would not be pressed to a particular assurance in this grievous agony. We desire you to inform them that shall come unto you of your estate. My unability is great: They then prayed, 1. Giving God thanks, that whereas before they had craved his mercy for his servant, he had heard them, and manifested to his glory, how he never forsaketh his: And besought him, because he knew the malice of the enemy, to perfect his good work, and not suffer him to be tempted above his ⟨p. 58⟩strength. Now, Sir, we tell yo• one thing to your comfort, W• never heard you speak any thing against God or man, thorow• out the time of your visitation• but wholly against your self• I have been bold thus to argue wit• God, If he hath showed mercy t• such and such, why should not […] likewise have hope? He complained once, how, while h• was visiting the sick, (In which work many poor souls foun• the ready mercifulness of hi• heart, and now feel a great want) he lighted upon doubts; which that he might more fully satisfy, when the like might be moved, he studied too earnestly. One brought him a note book which he had lent (Always willing to communicate what he had most private) Here is a book (said he) of great ⟨p. 59⟩