May 7. The donation of 50l. for the missionary brethren, received four days ago, was very refreshing to my spirit, and most manifestly to me another answer to prayer; but it did not hinder me from continuing in prayer for more means, as I have a great desire to spend again, by God's help, considerable sums in connexion with these various objects, in the course of this month. Moreover, I was looking out for answers to prayer, and therefore expected still further means to come in on the 4th, the 5th, and yesterday; and, as I received nothing, I only prayed the more earnestly, instead of being discouraged. And thus it was that I obtained this morning a still further answer to my supplication, in a donation of 150l., of which I took half for the Orphans and half for these objects, as the disposal of the money was left to me.

My dear Christian reader, will you not try this way? Will you not know for yourself, if as yet you have not known it, the preciousness and the happiness of this way of casting all your cares and burdens and necessities upon God? This way is as open to you as to me. Every one of the children of God is not called by Him to be engaged in such a service as that to which He has condescended to call me; but every one is invited and commanded to trust in the Lord, to trust in Him with all his heart, and to cast his burden upon Him, and to call upon Him in the day of trouble. Will you not do this, my dear brethren in Christ? I long that you may do so. I desire that you may taste the sweetness of that state of heart, in which, while surrounded by difficulties and necessities, you can yet be at peace, because you know that the living God, your Father in heaven, cares for you. Should, however, any one read this, who is not reconciled to God, but is still going on in the ways of sin and carelessness, unbelief and self-righteousness, then let me say to such, that it is impossible, that you should have confidence to come boldly to God in such a state, and I therefore ask you to make confession of your sins to Him, and to put your trust for eternity entirely in the merits of the Lord Jesus, that you may obtain the forgiveness of your sins. Again, should any one read this who has believed in the Lord Jesus, but who is now again living in sin, who is again regarding iniquity in his heart, let not such a one be surprised that he has no confidence toward God, and that he does not know the blessedness of having answers to his prayers; for it is written: "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: but verily God bath heard me; He hath attended to the voice of my prayer." Ps. lxvi. 18, 19. The first thing such a one has to do is, to forsake his evil course, to make confession of it, and to know afresh the power of the blood of the Lord Jesus on his conscience, by putting his trust in that precious blood, in order that he may obtain confidence toward God.

Supplies for the support of the Orphans, sent in answer to prayer, from May 26, 1848, to May 26, 1850.

When the accounts were closed on May 26, 1848, I had in hand a balance of 1l. 10s. 3 3/4 d. With this amount then we began, whilst day by day above one hundred and thirty persons were to be provided for in the four Orphan-Houses in Wilson Street. Nor was there any money besides available except what had been advanced to the four matrons in the various Orphan-Houses for the week's house-keeping, which was already more than half expended; and I had on the 30th to advance again many pounds for the following week. Place yourself now, dear reader, in my position, in order that you may the more clearly see the hand of God in what follows.

On the very next day, after the accounts were closed, May 27, 1848, I received from Westmoreland five pounds, half of which sum was intended by the donor for the Orphans, and half for the other objects. This donation I took as an earnest out of the hands of the living God, that during the whole of this period also He would provide for these many Orphans, as He had done in former years.

May 28. Received anonymously 3s. 9 1/2 d., and from A. S. A. 10s. 2 1/2 d.

May 29. Today I have received 100l., which, being left to me as most needed, I took half for the Orphans, and half for the other objects. How kind of the Lord to refresh my heart thus in sending me this seasonable help at the very commencement of this period, as there was so little left in hand when the accounts were closed three days since and how especially kind, as tomorrow evening again nearly 20l. will have to be advanced for house-keeping!

June 20. 81l. 8s. 4d. had come in since May 26th. Without any difficulty I had been able to meet all the expenses as they occurred; but now all our money was gone, and this evening I had again to advance the means for a week's house-keeping, whilst there was nothing in hand. Now observe, dear reader, how the Lord helped me! Whilst I was in the very act of beseeching the Lord for fresh supplies, two sisters in the Lord called, who desired to see my dear wife for a few minutes. It was for the purpose of giving her fifteen pounds for the Orphans.—About half an hour after, a brother from Devonshire called, who, on leaving, gave me 5l. for the Orphans. This evening I received still further from Norwich 1l. 1s., together with an eye-glass and a parcel of clothes. There was received also 1s. for Reports. Also a Christian brother from Barnstaple gave me half a sovereign. Thus I was able to meet the house-keeping expenses for the coming week, and to order 2 cwt. of soap, which was needed, amounting altogether to 20l. 10s., and have 1l. 2s. left. The day began and I had nothing, and yet the Lord enabled me to meet all its demands, and I have 1l. 2s. over.

June 21. The Lord is already beginning to give fresh supplies towards the need of the coming week. This morning was sent to me from Essex a large silver mug. There has come in further today from Bath 5s., by sale of Reports 1s., by sale of a book 1s., from South Molton 2s. 6d., from a lady near Bristol 5s., and through an Orphan-box 11s. 6d. and a silver thimble.

June. 23. From Merriott 14s. 4d., from Dundry 5s., through A. S. A. 1s. 6d., from a sister 5s., by sale of Reports 3s. 4d, by sale of articles 1l. 4s. 10d., by the children's knitting 4s. 6d., and from the Isle of Wight 14s. 7d.

June 25. Anonymously from Teignmouth 5l., through Bethesda boxes 6d., ditto 2d.

June 26. From L. M. 1s. 1d., brother F.'s Orphan-box 1s. 1d., by profit from the sale of ladies' baskets 10s., anonymously 1s., ditto 6d., ditto 1d.

June 27. By sale of articles 17s. 3d., from Clifton 10s., from a sister 10s., through a box in my room 10s., from Tiverton 5s., and through the boxes in the Orphan-Houses 4l. 5s. 2d.—Thus we have bad again this evening, in answer to prayer, all the means required for the housekeeping expenses of the coming week, and have a few shillings left.

July 4. Though this day week I had all the means requisite for advancing the house-keeping expenses for this week, yet, after having done so, there remained only a few shillings. I had therefore again to seek help from God respecting the means requisite for this evening, besides means for other expenses, which in the course of the week might come upon me, as the regular house-keeping expenses are not one half of the whole of the expenses for the Orphans. Now, during this week also, I have been helped by the Lord in the following manner:—

On June 28th I received from Uppingham 10s., and 10s., and 1s. Also by sale of Reports came in 6s.—On June 30th was sent from Tetbury 10s. — On July 1st a brother in the Lord gave me 10l.—On July 2nd from A. S. A. 1l., and from a sister 5s. Also anonymously 4s., ditto 10s., ditto 1s. 6d.—On July 3rd from a brother 1l.—-July 4th. By sale of articles 2l. 3s. 6 1/2 d., and by knitting and needlework 6l. 13s. 10d. — Thus I was again able to advance this evening the means for the house-keeping expenses of the coming week, and have a few shillings left.

July 6. The more the Lord is pleased to help me, the more, by His grace, I have confidence in Him. Therefore, though there were only a few shillings left the evening before last, I set myself to prayer that God would be pleased to send everything requisite for continuing this work. Accordingly, two ladies left today, anonymously, at the Infant Orphan-House, 2 old foreign gold watches, an old silver watch, a small gold chain, 6 gold mourning rings, a pair of gold earrings, and 2 necklaces. There was also given today 10s., and 2s. 2 1/2 d. came in by sale of Reports.

July 7. From Edmonton 1l. From a Christian lettercarrier 10s., from a sister 2s. 6d., and from M. R. 5l.

July 8. Through sister C. from a friend 2s., from M. 2s., from D. 1s., and from sister F. 1s. 1d.

July 9. From A. S. A. 10s. Also a brother has brought me this evening 5l.

July 10. From Street 2s., through Salem boxes 3d., and by knitting 10s. 9d.

July 11. By sale of trinkets, &c. 14l. 13s. 7d. From Gloucester 1l., from Tenby 1s. 6d., anonymously 5s., and from one of the labourers in the work 3s.—Thus I had again this evening enough to meet the ordinary housekeeping expenses for the coming week, but I am now looking out for fresh supplies to meet the expenses connected with ordering a fresh quantity of oatmeal from Scotland, &c.

July 12. The Lord has quickly given me an answer, and granted the desire of my heart. I received this morning a donation of 117l. 2s. 7d., to be used as the work of God in my hands might require. Of this sum I took 67l. 2s. 7d. for the Orphans, and 50l. for the other objects.

Aug. 1. From July 12th up to this day we were comfortably provided with means; but this evening, at our usual prayer-meeting, I had only 8l. to give to the four matrons towards the house-keeping expenses of the coming week, which I did give in the full assurance that the Lord would provide more by the time that this sum was expended, if not before.— Now see how God at this time also helped in His faithful love, and thereby proved that we did not call upon Him in vain. On the next day, Aug. 2, I received from London 1l., from Buttevant 1s. 6d., from "a Leamington grocer" 2s. 6d., from Bedminster 5s., and by sale of Reports 10s. 6d.—On Aug. 3rd came in by the sale of Reports 1s., from Langport 7l. 4s., from a very poor widow 2s., and 8s. besides.—On Aug. 5th was received from Mr. G. B. C. 1l. 1s., from Marbury 6d., from Brighton 10s., from Ayrshire 1l., and from Newbury 1l.—On Aug. 6, from the neighbourhood of Wotton-under Edge 7s., and by profit by the sale of ladies' baskets 10s.—On Aug. 7th from a Christian lady 1l., by sale of Reports 1s., from a sister 10s., through the Chapel-boxes 2s. 6d., and 6d., from Tockington 1l. 1s., through the Orphan-boxes in my house 13s. 6d., from Northam 2l., and from Cork 1l. On Aug. 8th by sale of articles 18s. 2 1/2 d. By sale of Reports 8s. Thus I had everything which was requisite for the expenses of the past week, and had this evening, Tuesday, even 7l. left to advance towards the house-keeping expenses of the coming week. My hope and prayer is, that the Lord will be pleased to send in more means before this is gone, as it will only suffice till Friday morning.

Aug. 9. The Lord has been very kind today, and proved afresh that none who trust in Him shall be confounded. There has come in by the sale of Reports 1l. 13s. 10d., by sale of another book given for sale 9d., and from Clevedon 10s., together with a pair of gold ear-drops, a buckle, and a pencil case. This evening, while I was walking in my little garden, lifting up my heart for further supplies for the work of God in my hands, there was given to me a registered letter from Liverpool, containing 20l. for the Orphans. There came also from Lymington 5s. Thus I am able to send the remainder of the money which is needed for house-keeping expenses for this week.

Aug. 10. The Lord has sent in still further supplies in answer to prayer. From a brother I received 1l., from the Isle of Wight 5l., from Bath 5l., from Barking 2 gold seals, 2 pairs of gold ear-rings, 2 gold brooches, a gold snap, a bead necklace, and a small telescope.

Aug. 11. By sale of Reports 1l. 9s. 2d. From Bath 5l.

Aug. 12. From Norfolk 1l. 10s.

Aug. 13. Anonymously 2s. 6d., ditto 6d., ditto 1s.

Aug. 14. By profit from the sale of ladies' baskets 1l.

Aug. 15. Through a box in my house 10s., by sale of articles 15s. 2d., by sale of Reports 2l. 0s. 6d., anonymously 2s., from Keswick 1s., from one of the labourers in the work 10s., and from Chelsea with a great variety of articles 7s. 8d., 7 1/4 d., and 1s. I received also from Bath 2 mourning rings.

Aug. 16, Wednesday. This afternoon I received from a brother, who had sold the greater part of his little property, 20l., of which he wished me to take 10l. for the Building Fund and 10l. for present use for the Orphans. Thus I have received for the Orphans altogether in money, besides many articles, since yesterday week the 8th, 61l. 15s. 8 1/4 d., whereby I have been enabled to supply the means which were yet needed for house-keeping; and I had likewise sufficient to advance last evening all that is needed for house-keeping for this week, and to meet 38l. 2s. 6d. extra expenses, which have come upon me during the last eight days. How seasonable were, therefore, the various donations which the Lord was pleased to send me since the 8th, and how manifestly did they come in answer to prayer! But now I have again scarcely anything left, which, however, does not cast me down, as I shall go afresh, by God's help, to His inexhaustible treasures.

Aug. 22. Tuesday evening. The Lord has again been pleased to send me since last Wednesday morning 17l. 14s. 9d., so that, together with the little which was left last Tuesday evening, I was able to advance the money needed for house-keeping during the coming week. The Lord was pleased to provide me with means for this in the following manner. On Aug. 17th came in 9s. 10d. from Clifton. On Aug. 18th was received by sale of Reports 2l. 1s., and by a donation from Acklow 1l. Also a brother from Bath left anonymously at the Boys' Orphan-House two sovereigns. On Aug 19th a brother from the neighbourhood of Stroud sent me 5l., of which he kindly wished me to take 1l. for my own personal expenses and to use the 4l. as most needed, which I took for the Orphans. Received also 9s. by sale of Reports. On Aug. 20th I received 6s. 6d. and 6s. 10d., being the contents of two Orphan-boxes, also from the neighbourhood of Keynsham 1l., from the neighbourhood of Royston 1l. and from Batheaston 10s.—Aug. 21. Through a box in my house 1l., from Doncaster 10s., by sale of Reports 18s., and from the Isle of Wight 10s. —Aug. 22. By sale of Reports 17s. 6d, by sale of articles 12s. 3d., anonymously 1s., from Thornbury 2s. 6d., and anonymously 4d. Thus, then, I had all the means requisite, and had 11 3/4 d. left.—Think of this, dear reader! 11 3/4 d. I had left and about 130 persons were daily to be provided for, and yet we did not go into debt at that time for anything, nor do we now, nor have we from the commencement of this work. Nor did I make personal application to any one for anything, nor did I directly or indirectly speak about our need, so that persons might be influenced to give. But why not, you may say, dear reader? Simply because this work has for its first and primary end the benefit of the Church at large and of the unconverted world, to show that there is verily a God in Heaven whose ears are open to those who call upon Him in the name of the Lord Jesus, and who put their trust in Him. Cheerfully have I dedicated myself with all my physical, mental, and spiritual energies to this life of faith upon the living God, for everything that I need in connexion with my own personal and family necessities, and in connexion with the work of God in my hands, if but by any means, through it, multitudes of believers and unbelievers may be benefited. Thousands have been benefited by it already, but tens of thousands my heart longs to benefit. No trial, no difficulty, no hardships, no self-denial, will I, by God's help, count too much, if but this end may be attained.— I had then, as I said, 11 3/4 d. left. Now observe how the Lord helped me again this time in answer to the supplications which the evening before, Aug. 22nd, my fellow-labourers and myself had offered up to Him.

On Aug. 23rd, the very next day, came in early in the morning 4s. 6d. by sale of Reports, and a Christian brother from Barnstaple sent 1l. with Matt. vi. 11 ("Give us this day our daily bread"). Also from Torquay was sent a half-sovereign. From Budleigh Salterton 1l., and from Weymouth 2l. together with a gold brooch. There arrived also a parcel from Stowmarket containing the following little sums; 6d., 7s. 6d., 2s., 2s. 6d., 10s., 6s., and 5s. There came in also from Bath 18s. for Reports. Thus I received altogether that day 7l. 5s. 6d., whereby I was enabled to order 8 cwt. of rice, as I was informed the evening before that our store of rice was exhausted.

Aug. 24. By knitting of the children 2s. 3d.

Aug. 25. By sale of Reports 1s., and from F. B. B. 2s. 6d.

Aug. 26. Saturday. Next Tuesday evening again a considerable sum will be needed for house-keeping, whilst at the beginning of this day I had nothing yet towards meeting this demand. Now observe the kindness of the Lord in helping me again bountifully this day. I received from a sister at Tottenham 2l., from Norton St. Philip's 10s., from a village near Leeds 5l., from Southwell 10s., from Edinburgh 21l., of which the donor kindly wished me to take 6l. for my own personal expenses, and 15l. for the Orphans; and from Thornbury for Reports 10s. 6d., as a donation, 2 old three-penny pieces and 20 copper coins, also 5s. from another donor near Thornbury.

Aug. 27. A half-sovereign was received, but the place of the donor is not to be mentioned; from an aged Christian woman 3l. and a pair of silver shirt buttons; and by sale of Reports 10s.

Aug. 28. From a sister as the profit from the sale of ladies' bags 6s. 6d., anonymously 2s. 6d., by sale of Reports 12s., from Weymouth 2l., also 4s., 1s., and 1s. 6d., and from Ryde 1l.

Aug.29. Anonymously from Torquay 1l. There came in also by sale of articles 17s. 6d., by sale of Reports 10s. 6d., and from a sister 2s. 6d.—Thus, by the help of God, we have again received by this Tuesday evening 42l. 3s. 9d., while last Tuesday evening there was only 11 3/4 d. left. How kindly has the Lord therefore, in answer to our supplications, increased "the handful of meal in the barrel!" Thus I have been enabled to advance the needful sum requisite for the house-keeping expenses till next Tuesday evening, and to meet several extra expenses. The remainder of the money has been put by for rent, and towards meeting the current expenses connected with the apprentices; and I am now again, without anything on hand, looking to the Lord for fresh supplies.

Now observe, dear reader, how again the Lord helped at this time also, and notice in particular how, from all parts of the country, yea from great distances, and sometimes also from foreign lands, the donations are sent, and most frequently from persons whom I have never seen, whereby the hand of God is the more strikingly made manifest.—I relate now how we were helped in answer to our prayers, this time, when nothing was left.

Aug. 30. Wednesday evening. I had this evening a long season for prayer for the work in which I am engaged, and sought also especially help from God as to means for present use for the Orphans. While I was in prayer, a parcel of clothes was brought from Weymouth for the benefit of the Orphans, and shortly after another parcel. There were also sent 2s. 6d. as a donation, and 1s. 6d. for Reports. A few minutes after I had finished praying, I received an anonymous letter from Teignmouth, containing 1l. and these lines; "The Lord permits me to send you the enclosed. Dear brother, 'Only believe,' 'O how great is thy goodness, which Thou hast laid up for them that fear Thee; which Thou hast wrought for them that trust in Thee before the sons of men.' Yours ever in Him."—How again has been fulfilled in my experience that word "Only believe!" I am now looking out for more, for I shall shortly again need many pounds, for the current expenses for the Orphans.

Aug. 31. Received from Hull 1l. 8s. 10d., of which 16s. 3 3/4 d. is from A. Z., who intends of this, 10s. for the Building-Fund, and the remainder as most needed, which I took for present use for the Orphans. A young man also sent through A. Z. 6s., and the remaining 6s. 6d. is for Reports. This morning also a sister in the Lord from Malvern called on me, who brought from herself and a few other sisters 4l., of which 10s. is intended by a sister for foreign missions, and the rest to be used as most needed, which I therefore took for the Orphans. I also received from Cheltenham 6s., and 10s. for Reports from Teignmouth, 10s. ditto from Street, and 1s. and 6d. as donations from Street.

Sept. 1. Received from several believers at Bowness 3l. 0s. 6d., of which they kindly intend 1l. for myself, 1l. for foreign missions, and 1l. 0s. 6d., for the Orphans.—From A. S. 5l.—By needlework of the children 6s. 1d., from Shirehampton 5s., and from a sister 2s. 6d.

Sept. 2. From Ilfracombe 1l. 10s. From Wakefield 10l. From Windsor 8l. 10s., of which 2l. 7s. is for Narratives and Reports. By sale of Reports 1l. 8s. 8d., and for needlework done by the Orphans 1l. 17s. 2d.

Sept. 4. A very poor Christian widow, having come into the possession of 10l. through the death of her mother, gave 1l. of it for the Orphans.

This sister in the Lord has since fallen asleep. Will she regret the gift now? Our time is short, very short. Let every child of God stand in the place of service in which He has set him, working while it is called today, "for the night cometh when no man can work." Again and again, while looking over my journal, I meet with names of donors, who have fallen asleep. Shortly, dear reader, your turn and mine may also come.

Sept. 5. The boxes in my house contained 1l. 6s. There came in also by sale of articles 5l. 1s. 8d., by sale of Reports 14s. 4 1/2 d., through the boxes of the Orphan-Houses 4l. 14s. 9 1/2 d., and from a sister 10s. Thus this evening, Tuesday, it was found that the Lord had sent in again since last Tuesday evening, when there was nothing in hand, nearly 50l., so that I have been able to meet all the extra expenses of the week, and to advance again this evening money for house-keeping for the coming week.

Now see how the Lord helped further for the week after this.

Sept. 6. By sale of Reports 13s. 9d. Sept. 8. From a lady 7s. 6d.

Sept. 9. By sale of a small cask of pickles, given for the purpose, 12s. — A brother and sister gave 3l., as a thank-offering to the Lord for the conversion of two brothers, in one week, in answer to prayer. From London 5l. By sale of articles 1s. 4d. From Scotland 12s. 6d. for Reports, and 3s. 6d. for the Orphans. From Crediton was sent 10s., 3s. 6d., and 11s.

Sept. 10. By sale of Reports 11s. 8d.—From a sister 2s. 6d., and through ditto 1s. 6d. Anonymously 1s.

Sept. 11. Profit from the sale of bags 10s.—From a brother in London 10s. From Scotland 3l. 18s. 7d. with 1l. for myself.

Sept. 12. Tuesday. By sale of articles 18s. 8d. By sale of Reports 3s. By a donation 1s. Thus again about 20l. has come in during the past week, and, with what remained in hand last Tuesday evening, I have had over and above what is needed for house-keeping expenses for the coming week.—When I came home this evening from our usual weekly prayer meeting for the Lord's blessing upon the various objects of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution, I found that a brother from Tavistock had left at my house 2l. 2s. 6d.

Sept. 13. By sale of Reports 8s. 2d.—From a Christian lady 2 crown pieces and 2 pairs of socks.—From East Coker 1l. 10s., together with many gold articles, &c. Also 1s. 6d. with many articles and some coins. From Belper 10s. for Reports, and 10s. as three donations.

Sept. 15. From Kingstown 5s. as a donation and 10s. for Reports.— This evening 1l. was left anonymously at my house; and a brother left 2 sovereigns at the Boys' Orphan-Rouse. A little boy gave 8d., and 6s. 6d. came in by sale of Reports.

Sept. 10. From a brother at Clifton 1l. 10s.

Sept. 17. By sale of Reports 13s. A.S.A. 10s. Anonymously 10s. From a sister 2s. 6d. Through a sister 10s.

Sept. 19. Tuesday. A gentleman called on me this morning and gave me half-a-sovereign for the Orphans, but would not give his name.—By sale of articles 3l. 0s. 6d., by Reports 8s. 6d., through the box at my house 1l., by a donation 10s. 6d., and paid on behalf of two Orphans 1l. 15s. Evening. Thus again more than 20l. has come in in money during this week, besides many valuable articles. I was thus able to advance all that was needed for house-keeping, and what was left I put by for rent and material for clothes, which have been ordered, trusting in God for fresh supplies for next Tuesday.

The Lord helped us this time again, as the following shows.

Sept. 20. By sale of a Report 6d.

Sept. 21. From Barnstaple was sent 1l. 5s.—Boxes in my house 10s. 6d.—This morning a Christian from Somersetshire called at my house, and said, he only wished to put something into the Orphan-box, and then put in a sovereign.—From Leicester was sent 1l.—This afternoon a letter was left at my house, containing a five pound note and these words: "From a Believer in the efficacy of the prayer of faith, to be appropriated as Mr. Mueller may think fit." As there was only 3l. 16s. in hand for the Orphans, I took this donation for them.—This evening I had again an especial season for prayer respecting the various objects of the Institution. Almost immediately, after I had risen from my knees, I received from Sunderland 1l.

Sept. 23. From Norwich 10s. From Bath 5l. Through a sister in Bristol 5s.

Sept. 24. Anonymously from Liverpool 10s.—From Stourbridge 1l.— From A. S. A. 6s. 8 1/2 d. By sale of Reports 2s. 6d. From Cheshire 2l. Anonymously 5s.

Sept. 25. The contents of an Orphan-box 18s. 10d.

Sept. 20. From Brighton 5s. By sale of articles 2l. 6s. 8d. By sale of Reports 1l. 6s. Through Orphan-boxes 5s. 2d. Ditto 2s. 9d. Through the boxes at the Orphan-Houses 2l. 14s. 11d.—Thus the Lord has again sent in about 25l. during the week, whereby I have been enabled to meet all the extra expenses of the week, and to advance for the house-keeping expenses of the coming week.

Sept. 27. When today there was again only a few shillings in hand, I received from Sunderland 2l. 19s. 6d. for Reports. Also from a sister in Bristol 10s. from another 10s. as the profit from the sale of ladies' baskets, and from Plymouth 1l.

Sept. 28. By the sale of trinkets and old silver 9l. 10s.

—From Scarborough 2l. as a donation, and 6s. for Reports.—From Barnstaple 2l. 0s. 9 1/2 d. By sale of Reports 10s.—From a donor in Bristol 1l.

Sept. 30. From a Christian gentleman in Bath 1l. From Oswestry 7s. By sale of Reports 12s.

Oct. 1. By Reports 3s. 4d. From A. S. A. 11s. 10d. Anonymously 10s. From Devonshire 6s. 6d.

Oct. 2. From Liverpool 2s. 6d. By Reports 7s. 6d. From a Brother in Bristol 1l.

Oct. 3. By sale of Reports 2s. 6d. and by sale of articles 1l. 9s. 9d. Thus by this evening, Tuesday, again about 28l. has come in, and I have been able to meet all the extra expenses of the work, and advance money for the week's house-keeping; but have now again scarcely anything left.

Oct. 4. By sale of trinkets came in 2l. 17s. 6d.

Oct. 5. From a sister 2s. 6d. From Kingsbridge 1l. 5s.

Oct. 0. By knitting 15s. 3d.

Oct. 7. Received from Sherborne 1l. 9s. 4d. Received also from the neighbourhood of Dartmouth 1l. 0s. 6d. There came in likewise through sister E. Ch. 1l. 5s. 10d.—Also 5l. 14s. 0 1/2 d., being part of the proceeds of a little publication.

Oct. 8. From A. S. A. 5l. Anonymously 1l. Ditto 6s.

Oct. 9. By sale of a Report 6d. From a sister 10s.

Oct. 10. From Cheltenham 10s. By sale of articles 4l. 0s. 1d. By sale of Reports 6s. 2d.—Thus, by this evening, Tuesday, again the sum of 26l. 2s. 8 1/2 d. had come in. I was, therefore, able to meet all the housekeeping expenses of the coming week, besides having paid away 8l. 15s. for apprentices, &c., and have 12s. 8d. left in hand. My heart is assured that the Lord will help further.

Now, dear reader, did the Lord help this time also? Yes, He did. Could it be otherwise? No; for they that trust in the Lord shall never be confounded. Let me then relate to you the way in which God helped us, going on with the extracts from my journal.

Oct. 11. At our meeting yesterday evening we made our supplication to God that He would be pleased to help us further. Immediately after the meeting I received 10s. Also when I came home I found that 6s. had been brought from Gosport for Reports, and 1s. 6d. as the proceeds of an Orphan-box at Gosport. Also 5s. was put by the bearer of the money into an Orphan-box at my house, who also brought a woollen shawl.—Today 1l. was left at one of the Orphan-Houses by "an aged person of a Bristol alms-house," who would not give her name. There came in also by sale of stockings 1l. 4s. 6d. There was likewise left anonymously at my house, an old silver watch, 2 mourning brooches, and 2 gold pins. Thus the Lord has already sent in a little.

Oct. 12. Received in an anonymous letter 1s. 8d. From the Isle of Man 2s. 6d. By sale of Reports 1l. 13s. 6d. Through a brother in Scotland 1l.—From two young gentlemen at Clifton 4s.—From Street 1s. 6d. — Through an Orphan-box 2s. 1d.

Oct. 13. From some believers near Kingsbridge 1l. By sale of articles 15s. Left at the Boys' Orphan-House 5s.

Oct. 14. From Bideford 2l. By sate of Reports 8s. By children's needlework 19s. 8 1/2 d.

Oct. 15. By sale of Reports 2s. 6d. From A. S. A. 13s. 5d. From Barnstaple 1l. From Yorkshire 5l., with these words: "Please to accept the enclosed 5l., as a thank-offering to God for an answer to prayer, in the conversion of a soul. I should like half of it to go to the Orphans, the other half I leave to your discretion." The other half I put to the Building-Fund.

Oct. 10. From Horsington 10s.—Through the boxes at my house 15s. 0 1/2 d.—From a sister 5s.

Oct. 17. From Reading 1l. By sale of Reports 5s. 6d. By sale of articles 4l. 10s. 6d.—Thus by this evening, Tuesday, the Lord had sent in again 23l. 11s. 3d., whereby I had enough for advancing the house-keeping expenses of the coming week, and the remainder I put by for the rent and the current expenses for the apprentices.

Oct. 18. When now there was again nothing in hand, I received by sale of Reports 12s., by a donation 7s, from Notts 5s. 1d., in small contributions 12s. 3d., and 1s.

Oct. 19. Anonymously from Tottenham a half-sovereign. From Collumpton 8s. 6d. and 11s. 6d.

Oct. 20. By sale of Reports 4s. From Barnstaple 5s. From a sister 2s. 6d., and from Madeley 1s. From Dublin 5s.

Oct. 21. From Clevedon 1l. 10s. From Cirencester 1l. 13s. 4d. and also 3s.—By sale of Reports 1l. 2s. 6d.

Oct. 22. From A. S. A. 11s. 3 1/2 d. Anonymously 10s. Ditto 8d. From a clergyman 10s. From S. 10s. By sale of Reports 1s. 6d. From a sister 5l. Oct. 24. By sale of Reports 5s. 4d. Boxes in the Orphan-Houses 1l. 2s. By sale of articles 3l. 2s. 1d.—Thus by this evening, Tuesday, again 20l. 4s. 11 1/2 d, had been received, and as the expenses of the coming week for house-keeping, together with some extra expenses during the past week, did not amount to more than 18l. 1s. 6d., I had 2l. 3s. 5 1/2 d. left, which I put by for the rent and the current expenses for the apprentices, and am again looking to the Lord for fresh supplies, and again assured that He will help me.

Oct. 31. Since last Tuesday evening it has pleased God again to make it abundantly manifest that we do not wait on Him in vain. Besides many articles, there came in 24l. 4s. 8 3/4 d. As the money which was needed for the house-keeping expenses for the coming week, together with a few other small expenses which I had had to meet during the last week, did not amount to more than 19l. 19s. 3d., there was more than 4l. left, which I put by towards the rent and the expenses for the apprentices, and hope in God for the next week.

Nov. 1. When I came home last evening from our usual weekly prayer meeting, I found 1l. from R. L. H. Thus the Lord has already given a little.—There arrived today a box from Reading, containing the following articles from various donors:

A black feather. Also two pairs of ladies' shoes and a pair of velvet boots. Also two ladies' bags, 2 pairs of bracelets, 2 waistbands, a pair of baby's shoes, 2 neck ribands, and some white lace.—Further, a pair of worked slippers, a thimble case, 2 pin-cushions, a pair of baby's stays, a lady's bag, a pocket-book, a silver brooch, 2 gilt brooches, a gilt seal, and 12 yards of calico.—Further, a box of artificial flowers. Also an urn stand. Further, a bible and prayer book in a case. Further, a little box containing 2 gold rings, a gilt chain, a bead necklace, some mock pearls, and a gilt buckle.—Likewise a paper containing a smelling bottle, a pen knife, a waist buckle, and a card.—Further, a paper containing 2 needle-cases, a purse, 2 little books, 2 medals, a scent bag, a little smelling bottle, 3 pebbles, and 3 mourning necklaces. Another paper, containing 4 gold rings, a gold pin, 2 old silver thimbles, the handle of a silver fruit knife, a snuff-box, 2 silver mounted corks, 7 pin-cushions, a needle-book, a pair of bracelets, a bead purse, a smelling bottle, a silver brooch, a gold brooch, a bead necklace, a pair of compasses, a broken gold watch key, 1 shilling, an old silver thimble, an emery cushion, a gold ring, a cloak fastener, and a little bead bag.— Another paper, containing a silk scarf, a shawl, and some muslin for night-caps. A paper box, containing a silver-mounted smelling bottle, a toilette cushion, an amethyst brooch, a silver butter-knife, a pair of gloves, and 2 shillings for missions. Another paper, containing 8 1/2 yards of blue print.—Also 50 books and some pamphlets. —Lastly, a gauze dress, a silk dress, a collar, and 3 caps.—I have on purpose given here at full length the contents of this box, to show what a variety of articles, either for sale or for the use of the Orphans, has been sent.—There arrived also today, anonymously, a box from a considerable distance, containing more than one hundred different articles. There was also 5s. in this box, to pay for the carriage. This day also came in by sale of Reports 2s. 6d., and by needlework of the Orphans 19s. 1d.

Nov. 2. From the neighbourhood of Lutterworth a half-sovereign, from a sister in Bristol 10s., through a brother half-a-crown and 4 frocks.

Nov. 3. From S. N. 2s. 6d.

Nov. S. From A. S. A. 8s. Anonymously 2s. 6d. By sale of Reports 1s. 4d.

Nov. 6. By sale of stockings 9s. 2d. From Cumberland 5l. From Ayrshire 1l.

Nov. 7. By sale of articles 2l. 9s. 4 1/2 d., and by sale of a Report 6d. This evening, Tuesday, as only 13l. 3s. 5 1/2 d. had come in during the week, I had only 7l. to advance towards the house-keeping expenses of the coming week, after having met some other expenses. But I hope in God for more, before this is gone, which will only last two or three days.

Nov. 5. By sale of Reports came in 3s., and 2s. 6d. was given by a relative of one of the Orphans.

Nov. 9. Only 5s. 6d. had come in yesterday. Tomorrow more money will be needed for house-keeping. In this our poverty I received this morning One Thousand Pounds. The money being left to me for disposal as it might be most needed, I took of it 600l. for the Building Fund, 300l. for missionary purposes and the circulation of bibles and tracts, and 100l. for present use of the Orphans. I have thus the means which are yet needed for this week's house-keeping expenses, besides being able to meet other heavy expenses which are before me next week.

Feb. 20, 1849. For three months and ten days, since Nov. 9, 1848, the donations have always come in so, that we abounded during the whole period, there having been always fresh donations received, before all the money in hand was disbursed. The total amount that came in during this period was 469l. 14s. 10d. Now today there was no money in hand for advancing the amount needed for the next week's house-keeping. All the money in hand was due for rent, and therefore unavailable, as I never go in debt for anything. In this our need there was given to me this afternoon the sum of 200l., which was left to my disposal for fitting up the New Orphan-House, or for any of the objects in connexion with the Scriptural Knowledge Institution that might be in need. As, however, I have all the means for fitting up and furnishing the New Orphan-House, as far as I know, and as there is no money in hand for present use for the Orphans, I took 100l. for that object, and 100l. for the circulation of Bibles and Tracts, for the Day-Schools, the Sunday-School, and the Adult-School, and for Home and Foreign labourers in the Word.

March 9. The New Orphan-House is now nearly ready. On this account we have to get in large supplies for the children's clothes. Within the last few days I have ordered thousands of yards of material for this purpose, and thousands more will need to be ordered, besides providing a stock of many other things. For this large sums are needed. Under these circumstances I received today a donation of 300l., to be used for the Building Fund, or the current expenses of the various objects, just as it might be most required. As I judge that we have all that is needed for the fitting up and furnishing of the house, and as there is more in hand than usual for the missionary objects, the circulation of Bibles and Tracts, and for the various Schools, and as we have only about 60l. for present use for the Orphans, towards meeting all the heavy expenses before us, I took the whole of this donation for the Orphans, as the donor has kindly left the disposal of the money entirely to me. This donation, coming in just now, has been an exceedingly great refreshment to my spirit; for it is, at the commencement of the great increase of our expenses, in connexion with the 300 Orphans, instead of 120, like an earnest from God, that He will supply us also with means when the demands for the 300 will be more than twice as great as they are now. Through this donation I have means to meet all the expenses which will be incurred in getting in for the new establishment the stores of provisions, soap, material for clothes, haberdashery, and of the many other articles of which it would be desirable to buy our supplies on wholesale terms. The Lord be praised for His kindness!

April 10. Received this afternoon the following letter:—"Dear Brother,

"I have the pleasure today of sowing a little more seed-corn for eternity. Employ the enclosed 50l., if you please, for the support of the Orphans. The remaining 5l. be pleased to divide between yourself and dear brother Craik.

"Yours very truly in Christ,

"* * * *"

From the same donor I had recently had two donations of 120l. and 100l.

April 11. From the brethren at Sunderland, assembling at Bethesda chapel, 10l., as a part of their annual thank-offering to the Lord for Church mercies during the last twelvemonth.

April 18. Today I received a donation of 250l., of which I took 100l. for the Orphans, and the other 150l. for the other objects. Never were the current expenses for the Orphans nearly so great as they are now, but at the same time never was the income nearly so great. Thereby the Lord, as it were, says, that, when the New Orphan-House shall have been filled with Orphans, He will likewise give what is requisite for them. Whilst yet much is in hand, He has been pleased to send this donation.

From April 19th to May 23rd, the Lord was pleased to send in still further many donations.

May 23. Today I received 360l., of which I took half for the current expenses for the Orphans, and half for the other objects. By this donation I am still further provided with means to meet all the expenses connected with the removal of the children into the New Orphan-House, the reception and fitting out of many fresh children, the filling the stores of the New Orphan-House, &c. How does the Lord by all this clearly say, that, when this house shall have been filled with children, He will provide the means for their support!

June 18. Today, as the fruit of the prayers of three years and seven months, the children began to be moved from the four Orphan-Houses in Wilson Street, Bristol, into the New Orphan-House.

June 23. Saturday Evening. This has been indeed a week of great and many and peculiar mercies. All the Orphans with their teachers and overseers have been moved into the New Orphan-House, during Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; so that there are now about 140 persons under one roof. The Lord has most signally helped.—As I had for more than three years sought the help of God concerning all matters connected with the New Orphan-House, I did expect His help in this particular also; but He has done beyond my expectations. Though only the day before yesterday the last children were moved in, there is already such a measure of order established in the house, by the help of God, as that things can be done by the minute hands of the timepieces. His name is to be praised for this, and my soul does magnify Him for His goodness!—Also with regard to temporal supplies for the dear Orphans, the Lord has been exceedingly kind. On the second day of receiving the children, there was sent 20l. On the third day, an individual, who walked with me through part of the house, said, "These children must consume a great deal of provisions," and, whilst saying it, took out of his pocket a roll of Bank of England notes, to the amount of one hundred pounds, and gave them to me for the Orphans. On the same evening there was also sent for the Orphans a very large cask of treacle, and for their teachers and overseers 6 loaves of sugar. Also a cooper made gratuitously two large new casks for treacle. On the next day I received information that about 10 cwt. of rice had been purchased for the Orphans, which should be sent. Besides this, several small donations have come in. So bountifully has the Lord been pleased to help of late, that I have not only been able to meet all the extraordinary heavy expenses connected with moving the Orphans from Wilson Street into the New Orphan-House, filling the stores of the New Orphan-House, &c.; but I have more than five hundred pounds in hand, to begin house-keeping in the New Orphan-House. How true that word that those that trust in the Lord shall not be confounded! After all the many and long-continued seasons of great trial of faith within these thirteen years and two months, during which the Orphans were in Wilson Street, the Lord dismisses us from thence in comparative abundance. His holy name be praised for it!

In order that this chapter may not be too long, I can only mention of the donations, from June 23, 1849, to May 20, 1850, those which came in under particular circumstances. The total amount received from June 23, 1849, to May 26, 1850, for the current expenses of the Orphans, was 2,102l. 13s. 4 3/4 d.

Aug. 30. Received a Fifty Pound Note with these words: "I send you herewith a Fifty Pound Note, half for the Missions, half for the Orphans, unless you are in any personal need; if so, take 5l. for yourself. This will be the last large sum I shall be able to transmit to you. Almost all the rest is already out at interest." I took half of this 50l. for the Orphans and half for Missionaries. The writer sold some time since his only earthly possession, and sent me at different times sums of 120l., of 100l., of 55l., of 50l, and of 20l. for the work of the Lord in my hands. When he says therefore "the rest is already out at interest," he means that he has given it away for the Lord, which indeed both for time and eternity is the very best way of using the means with which the Lord may be pleased to intrust us, in so far as, considering in the fear of God all our various claims and duties and relationships, we may do so. As this is written for the spiritual profit of the reader, I cannot but add to this extract from my journal under Aug. 30, 1849, that since that time I have received other donations from the same donor, and much larger still. He used for God the means with which He was pleased to intrust him, and, contrary to this brother's expectation, the above 50l. was not the last large donation; for it pleased God soon after, to intrust him with another considerable sum, which he again used for the Lord. This did not at all surprise me; for it is the Lord's order, that, in whatever way He is pleased to make us His stewards, whether as to temporal or spiritual things, if we are indeed acting as stewards and not as owners, He will make us stewards over more. But for more, on this deeply important subject, I must refer the reader to the third part of this Narrative, page 575 to 604.

Sept. 27. From friends at Othery 20l.—This donation is very refreshing to my spirit. Last evening and this morning I had especially besought the Lord, that He would be pleased to continue to send me means, as the expenses are now so great; for there are 107 Orphans in the house, and about 190 persons daily sit down to their meals, and this number is every week increasing. Now, by this donation, which comes not only from an entirely new but also most unexpected quarter, the Lord is, as it were, saying to me, that He will not fail to help me, even when there shall be about 330 persons in the house, for which number it is fitted up.

Oct. S. Yesterday again seven Orphans were received. Every week I am now taking in five, six, seven, or eight; and within the last nine weeks altogether have been received, and about 200 persons sit down daily to their meals. This has greatly increased the expenses already, and they will be still more increased, as I purpose to receive still further 120 Orphans, if God permit, to make up the number 300. Yesterday, after having received the seven children, I again gave myself to prayer for an increase of means. Now today I have received from Devonshire a set of valuable jewels, i.e. a ring set with 5 brilliants, a brooch set with 12 larger and 12 smaller brilliants and 1 large emerald, and a pair of ear-rings, both together set with 10 brilliants and 2 emeralds. The bearer brought also 1l. 10s. 4d. and 10s. 2d., being the proceeds of two Orphan-boxes, likewise 1l. 4s. 6d. At the same time I received from another brother from Devonshire. 4l.; and from a third 16s. 10d.— Truly the Lord does not allow me to wait upon Him in vain!

Nov. 1. Today I have again received seven Orphans. There are now about 220 persons daily sitting down to their meals in the Orphan-House. Before the seven fresh Orphans were brought, I received a letter from a banker in London, giving me information that a brother in the Lord, living between 200 and 300 miles from hence, had given order to pay me 40l. for the Orphans.—By the same post I received anonymously from London 5/. from the same donor, who has now for several years sent twice every year this amount, of which she kindly wishes me to use half for my own personal expenses, and half for the work of the Lord in my hands. I took the half for the Orphans.—This was not all. In the afternoon, whilst receiving the Orphans, there came in still further 69l. 3s. 8d., also 2s. and a few articles.

Nov. 16. About 260l. has been spent within these 16 days, i.e. since the first of the month, for current expenses for the Orphans alone, and about 120l. for the other objects, making in all about 380l. within half a month. Lord look upon the necessities of Thy servant, seeing that now the outgoings are so large!

Nov. 30. We have been helped through this month most comfortably, though the expenses for the Orphans have been heavier by far, than in any month all the 14 years since this work was commenced, having been 380l. 9s. 2d., and, including the expenses for the other objects, about 540l.

Dec. 4. Today was paid to me a legacy of 50l., left for the benefit of the Orphans.

Dec. 12. Anonymously a Bank Post Bill for 50l. 13s. 6d.

Jan. 9, 1850. Today was sent to me from the Committee of the Cholera Fund in Bristol 20l., which the gentlemen constituting it had voted for the benefit of the twenty children who had lost their parents in the Cholera, and whom I had received into the New Orphan-House.

I had not applied either directly or indirectly for this money; indeed I was reluctant even to give information as to the number of Cholera Orphans received, lest there should be even the appearance as if after all I asked for money, instead of solely trusting in the living God. But some of the gentlemen on the Committee, knowing the fact that I had received many Orphans, made such by means of the Cholera, proposed that there should be paid to the Institution a sovereign on account of each such child received. This sum was especially remarkable to me as a fresh proof of the numberless ways, which God has at His command for providing me with means.

I also cannot help noticing the remarkable coincidence that, at the time God visited this land with the Cholera, in 1849, I had so much room for the reception of Orphans. The Lord was pleased to allow me the joy and sweet privilege of receiving altogether twenty-six children, from ten months old and upward, who lost their parents in the Cholera at that time, and many besides, since then, who were bereaved of their parents through this fearful malady.

Jan. 31. Today five more Orphans are to be received. For the last fortnight, comparatively little had come in for the Orphans, i.e. not quite 60l. In the prospect of the Orphans coming today, I said last evening to my dear wife, that the Lord would send us something for them; for I have often found, that either He has sent something with the children, or at the time that they have been received. It was but about ten minutes after I had said so, when I received 450l. (see the account of the income for the other objects), of which I took 200l. for the Orphans. This morning I received further 10l. from a pious countess in Edinburgh, and 10s. from Deptford. Thus the Lord has indeed sent something for the Orphans. It is now seven months and thirteen days since the Orphans began to be received into the New Orphan-House. The expenses for them have been since then Fifteen Hundred and Twenty Pounds; and yet we have this day more in hand, than when the New Orphan-House was opened. Unbelief and natural reason would have said, and did say, If there have often been scarcely any means in hand, while the Orphans were in the rented houses, and only about 120 in number, how will it be when there shall be 300 in the New Orphan-House? But faith's reply was, Our poverty has been only for the trial of our faith, and it will be as easy to the Lord to provide for 300 as for 120 Orphans. And thus we have proved it hitherto, and, no doubt, shall prove it, as long as the Lord shall enable us to trust in Him.

May 25, 1850. The Lord has up to the close of this period helped also for this as well as for the other parts of the work; for during this last week I have received about 62l. for the current expenses for the Orphans. With confidence in the living God I step into the new period, though our expenses are now far heavier than ever they were, being fully assured of His faithfulness. May He be pleased to uphold me during the remainder of my earthly pilgrimage in His fear and truth, and may He graciously be pleased to give me day by day the faith which my circumstances may require.

Closing account as to the way in which the means were obtained for the expenses connected with the erection, fitting up, and furnishing of the New Orphan-House, Ashley Down, Bristol.

At the time where the last chapter, referring to this subject, closes, the New Orphan-House was being built. Part of it was already roofed in, and the remainder was to be roofed not many weeks afterwards. But how much did there yet remain to be done in other respects! A building so considerable as to contain about 300 large windows, would require, even after it was finished, an immense amount of labour, to be fitted up and furnished for 330 persons. Then, after this was done, the settling in of the Orphans and their teachers and other overseers, needed still more abundant help. Further, the obtaining of suitable helpers for this part of the work, was indeed no small matter. Lastly, though the Lord had been pleased to give me already above Eleven Thousand Pounds for the New Orphan-House, yet I needed several thousand pounds more, in order to bring the whole into such a state, as might render the building fit for the reception of the Orphans. And now, in looking back, and finding that I not only was helped in all these matters, but also in every one of them far beyond my largest expectations —does it not become me to say to those who love the Lord Jesus, and into whose hands this account may fall: "0 magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together!" Each one of the foregoing difficulties which still existed on the 26th of May, 1848, was so great, that if only one of them had remained, and I had not been helped, what would have been the result? But while the prospect before me would have been overwhelming had I looked at it naturally, I was never, even for once, permitted to question what would be the end. For as, from the beginning, I was sure that it was the will of God, that I should go to the work of building for Him this large Orphan-House, so also, from the beginning, I was as certain that the whole would be finished, as if the building had been already before my natural eyes, and as if the house had been already filled with three hundred destitute Orphans. I was therefore of good courage, in the midst of an overwhelming pressure of work yet to be done, and very many difficulties yet to be overcome, and thousands of pounds yet needed; and I gave myself still further to prayer, and sought still further to exercise faith on the promises of God. And now, the work is done, the difficulties are overcome, all the money that was needed has been obtained, and even more than I needed; and, as to helpers in the work, I have obtained even beyond my expectations and prayers. Nearly seven years have passed away already [1856] since the New Orphan-House was opened, and about three hundred and thirty persons sit down in it day by day to their meals.

The Godly reader will feel interested in learning now further particulars, as to how it pleased God to assist me in accomplishing my desires, with reference to the preparation of the House for the reception of the children, and I therefore relate the manner in which I received further pecuniary supplies; and, whilst doing so, will here and there make remarks concerning other points, which may throw light on the subject.

Up to May 26, 1848, I had received altogether towards meeting the expenses connected with the building of the New Orphan-House the sum of 11,062l. 4s. 11 1/2 d. I now state further, some instances, merely as specimens, as to the manner in which it pleased the Lord, to provide me further with means for fitting up and furnishing the New Orphan-House, without applying to a single individual personally for anything, but only giving myself to prayer.

June 8, 1848. I received 5l. 17s. as the "Proceeds from the sale of a Tree for the New Orphan-House."

June 17. Received 5l., of which 4l. 1s. is the proceeds from the sale of "a second tree for the New Orphan-House," and 19s. for present use for the Orphans.—The reader is here called upon to notice that, whilst I had yet to obtain several thousand pounds for finishing the New Orphan-House, all the other current expenses of the various objects of the Institution were going on; and for none of all these pecuniary necessities had I any regular certain income whatever, nor did I seek help from any one but the living God only.

June 20. A brother and sister gave four silver table spoons, twelve silver tea spoons, and a pair of silver sugar tongs for sale.

Aug. 7. From a sister in the Lord 200l.—With 2 Cor. viii. 12, 1s. — Anonymously from J. H. W. 5s., as "a thank-offering to the Lord for His delivering goodness in sickness."—Anonymously 1s.

Aug. 13. From a brother 10s. This brother had worked overtime, and in prayer he told the Lord that, if his employers gave him anything for it, he would give it to the Building Fund, as he had a great desire to contribute something towards this work, from which he had been kept for want of means.

Aug. 16. A brother in the Lord having sold his little earthly property, for the sake of spending the money for the Lord, brought 20l. of the proceeds, of which he wished me to take 10l. for the Building Fund, and 10l. for the orphans.

Aug. 19. It is this day a twelvemonth since the foundation stone of the New Orphan-House was laid, and now the building is up, and almost entirely roofed in. Also part of the inside plastering is already done. How can my soul sufficiently magnify the Lord for all the help which He has been pleased to give, since this day twelvemonth!—As we are now so far advanced, I have been increasingly entreating God, that He would be pleased to give me the means which are yet requisite for fitting up and furnishing the house; for even now I am completely depending upon Him for considerable sums, to accomplish this. But while much is still needed, I have never had, by God's grace, the least misgiving, as to His willingness to give me all I need; on the contrary, I have been assured that, when I actually required the money for the fittings and the furniture, it would come. And now this day the Lord has again proved, to me, how willing Ha is to act according to my faith; for there was given to me this morning 887l. under the kind condition that I should take of it 20l. for my own personal expenses, and the rest for the Building Fund or the present need of the various objects of the Institution, as it appeared best to me. I took therefore 600l. for the Building Fund, and placed 267l. to the School—, Bible—, Tract—and Missionary Fund, with the especial intention of using the greater part of this 267l. for helping home and foreign preachers of the Gospel, who labour without any salary, in dependence upon the Lord for supplies, knowing the need of many to be very great; for cases of especial distress among them had again recently come before me. My soul does magnify the Lord for all His goodness and faithfulness!

Oct. 11. This afternoon I received a letter, containing a check for 50l. with these words: "1 Peter iv. 12-14. The enclosed draft is for Mr. Mueller, to be disposed of according to his own need, and the need of the Orphans under his care. May the 37th Psalm continue to be his solace in the fiery trial through which he is passing." I took the whole of this sum towards fitting up and furnishing the New Orphan-House.

Oct. 16. This evening I received a fifty pound note as a thank-offering to the Lord for numberless mercies during a long course of years. The donor desired that Brother Craik should have 10l., myself 10l. for my own personal expenses, and 30l. were left to me to dispose of as I thought best, for the work of God in my hands, which sum I put to the Building Fund, with the donor's approval.

Oct. 20. From a lady in Ireland 5s.—By sale of turf and grass 3l. 16s. 2d.

Oct. 24. By sale of articles 4s. 4 1/2 d.—From a Christian gentleman in Devonshire 20l. Day by day 1 am waiting upon God for means for furnishing the house. The last-mentioned sum I received when returning from the Orphan-Houses from our weekly prayer-meeting, where I had been again seeking from God further help, together with my fellow labourers in the work.

Oct. 25. From sisters in the Lord in Devonshire, 5l., of which they kindly intend one half for the Building Fund, and the other half for present use for the Orphans.

Nov. 8. The Building is now so far advanced by the help of God, that I was able to arrange yesterday with the clerk of the works to purchase today 32 grates for small rooms, two copper furnaces for the wash-house, and two iron furnaces for the scullery. Thus, therefore, the expenses for fitting up the house commence. For all this I had the money in hand, and even some hundreds of pounds more, than the liabilities which are already upon me; yet I want still many hundred pounds to meet all the heavy expenses, connected with fitting up and furnishing so large a building, levelling the ground, making a road through the ground, pitching three large playgrounds, &c. Under these circumstances I received this morning anonymously 50l. for the Orphan-House, with Psalm cxvi. and the request not to notice the post-mark. As I understood the donor to intend this donation for the Building Fund, I took it for that.

Nov. 9. Today the Lord has helped still more abundantly. I have received a donation of One Thousand Pounds, to be used for the Building Fund and the present necessities of the work generally, as the various objects of the Institution might require. Of this donation I took, therefore, 600l. for the Building Fund, 100l. for the present necessities of the Orphans, 200l. for missionary purposes, and 100l. for the circulation of Bibles and Tracts, and for the various Day Schools, the Sunday School, and the Adult School of the Institution. All these manifestations of the Lord's abundant help do not in the least surprise me. I expect help from Him. I know that He listens to my supplications, and that, for the sake of the Lord Jesus, He is willing to help me yet more and more, to the confounding of Satan and to the putting to shame of unbelief.

Nov. 10. Received a bank order for 5l. from the neighbourhood of Tavistock, which, being left to my disposal, I took for the Building Fund.

Nov. 15. From the neighbourhood of Launceston 20l.

Dec. 22. Received 100l. This sum being left to my disposal, I took it for the Building Fund.

Jan. 2, 1849. Received from Devonshire 10l., with these words: "A moiety of the first fruits of interest on Bristol Dock Shares from the Town Council of Bristol, towards the New Orphan Building." Thus even the fact, of Bristol being made a free port, was used by the Lord as a means to supply me with this sum.

Jan. 17. The time is now drawing near, when further steps are to be taken to fit up and furnish the house, as more than two-thirds of the rooms are all but ready. Under these circumstances I have prayed the more earnestly, day by day, that the Lord would be pleased to give me the means which are yet needed; and as my heart has been assured from the beginning, and all through these three years and two months, since I first began to pray about this subject, that God would in every way help me in this work, so I have also been particularly satisfied that He would be pleased to provide the means which may be required to meet all the heavy expenses, which yet remain to be met. Now, today I have had again a precious answer to my daily supplications with reference to this work; for I received this evening 600l., concerning which it was desired that brother Craik and myself should each take 50l. for ourselves; the remaining 500l. was left entirely to my disposal; yet an especial reference was made to the heavy expenses connected with fitting up and furnishing the New Orphan-House, towards which I might, either in part, or entirely take this sum.—After prayer I have decided on portioning out the money thus: 300l. towards fitting up and furnishing the New Orphan-House, 50l. for present use for the Orphans, 50l. for the support of the Day Schools, the Sunday School, and the Adult School, 25l. for the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, 25l. for the circulation of Gospel Tracts, 25l. for Foreign Missions, and 25l. for the Employment Fund.

With reference to the present of 50l. for myself, as mentioned just now, I cannot help calling upon the Christian reader to observe how richly the Lord supplies my own personal necessities. Since 1830 I have had no regular salary nor any stated income whatever I then began to rely upon the living God alone for the supply of all my temporal necessities; and all these many years have never once been allowed to regret this step, nor has the Lord at any time failed me. Often, indeed, I have known what it is to be poor; but for the most part I have abounded. I sought no payment from man for my service for God, whether in the ministry of the Word or as director of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution; but though I did not seek for any payment, the Lord has most abundantly recompensed me, even as to this life. By far the most important point, however, of this my way of living, is, that many of the disciples of the Lord Jesus have had their hearts comforted, and have been encouraged themselves to trust more in God, than they used to do; and it was, moreover, my becoming more experimentally acquainted, through this way of living, with the readiness of God to help, to succour, to relieve, and to answer prayer, which led me in March 1834 to begin the Scriptural Knowledge Institution, and in November 1835 to care about destitute Orphans.

Jan. 26. Anonymously from the neighbourhood of Nottingham "A gold chain."

Jan. 30. From a professional gentleman in Bristol 50l.

Feb. 12. The New Orphan-House is now almost entirely finished. In six weeks, with the help of God, all will be completed. On this account I have been during the last fortnight much occupied in making the necessary arrangements for fitting it up and furnishing it; but the more. I have been occupied about this, the more I have seen how large a sum the whole of the fittings and the furniture will require; and this consideration has led me still more earnestly of late to entreat the Lord, that He would be pleased to give me the means, which may yet be needed for the completion of the whole. Under these circumstances a brother in the Lord came to me this morning, and after a few minutes conversation gave me Two Thousand Pounds, concerning which sum he kindly gave me permission to use it for the fitting up and furnishing of the New Orphan-House, or for any thing else needed in connexion with the Orphans. I have placed the whole of this sum, at least for the present, to the Building Fund. Now, dear reader, place yourself in my position. Eleven hundred and ninety-five days it is since I began asking the Lord for means for the building and fitting up of an Orphan-House. Day by day have I, by His grace, since that time, continued to bring this matter before Him. Without one moment's doubt, or misgiving, or wavering, have I been enabled to trust in God for the means. From the beginning, after I had once ascertained the will of God concerning this work, have I been assured that He would bring it about; yea, as sure have I been from the beginning that He would do so, as if I had already had all the means in hand for it, or as if the house had been actually before me, occupied by the children. But though to faith even three years ago the whole work was accomplished, to sight there remained many and great difficulties to be overcome. Even at the commencement of this day there remained many difficulties, in the way of means, as well as in other respects; therefore. I was on the point of giving myself again especially to prayer, at the very moment when I was informed that the donor of the above mentioned Two Thousand Pounds had called to see me. Now I have the means, as far as I can see, which will enable me to meet all the expenses; and in all probability I shall have even several hundred pounds more than are needed. Thus the Lord shows that He can and will not only give as much as is absolutely needed for His work, but also that He can and will give abundantly. It is impossible to describe the real joy I had in God, when I received this sum. I was calm, not in the least excited, able to go on immediately with other work that came upon me at once after I had received the donation; but inexpressible was the delight which I had in God, who had thus given me the full answer to my thousands of prayers, during these eleven hundred and ninety-five days. I notice further concerning this donation: 1, The donor especially desired me to keep his name entirely concealed; and in order that no one might know who he is, he gave me not an order on a bank, but brought the amount in notes. 2, He had intended to leave me this sum for the benefit of the Orphans after his death, and for years it had been in his last will; but he judged it more according to the will of God to give the money during his life time.

March 31. A brother brought me a gold repeater with a gold chain, to which two gold seals and a gold ring were attached, and told me that he desired to give the chain, seals, and ring towards fitting up the New Orphan-House, and wished me to get him for the gold repeater a silver watch, as the love of Christ had weaned his heart from any desire to use a gold repeater. He also stated, that whatever was over and above the sale of the repeater should go for the benefit of the Orphans.

I have thus given a few out of the hundreds of donations, varying from one farthing to 2000l., as specimens, to show how the Lord was pleased to furnish me with the means. The total amount, which came in for the Building Fund, was 15,784l. 18s. 10d. Of this sum 14,914l. 5s. 8d. was received by donations in money, 60l. 19s. 11d. came in by the sale of articles, given for the purpose. 66l. 3s. 10d. by the sale of grass and turf from the field, on which the New Orphan-House was erected. 743l. 9s. 5d. came in for Interest; for I considered that, as a steward of large sums, which were intrusted to me, I ought to invest the money, till it was actually needed; and thus the sum was obtained.

After all the expenses had been met for the purchase of the land, the conveyance of the same, the enrolment of the trust deeds in Chancery, the building, fitting up and furnishing of the New Orphan-House, there remained a balance of 776l. 14s. 3 3/4 d., affording a manifest proof that the Lord can not only supply us with all we need in His service, simply in answer to prayer, but that He can also give us even more than we need. It will be seen how this balance was afterwards used.

Miscellaneous points respecting the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad, with reference to the period from May 26, 1848 to May 26, 1850.

1, During the whole of this period, five Day Schools, with 329 children in them, were entirely supported by the Funds of this Institution; and some pecuniary assistance was rendered to four other Day Schools. Also a Sunday School, with 168 children, was entirely supported, and another was occasionally assisted. Lastly, an Adult School, with 106 Adult Scholars, was supported during this period. There was expended on these various Schools 851l. 1s. 5 1/2 d. during these two years.—The number of all the children that were taught in the Day Schools through the medium of this Institution, from March 5 1834 to May 26, 1850, amounted to 5114; the number of those in the Sunday Schools amounted to 2200; and the number of the persons in the Adult School to 1737. In all 9051.

2, From May 26, 1848 to May 20, 1850, were circulated 719 Bibles and 239 New Testaments. There was expended on this object, during this period, of the funds of the Institution, 104l. 15s. 11d. There were circulated altogether, from March 5, 1834 to May 26, 1850, Six Thousand Four Hundred and Sixty-Five Bibles and Three Thousand Nine Hundred and Ninety-Nine New Testaments.

3, From May 26, 1848, to May 26, 1850, were spent 2574l. 16s. 6d. of the funds of the Institution for missionary objects, whereby 40 preachers of the Gospel in British Guiana, in the East Indies, in Switzerland, in France, in Germany, in Canada, in Scotland, in Ireland, and in England were assisted.

The reader will notice how greatly this object of the Institution was increased during the last four years previous to May 26, 1850. This arose from the fact, that, in the early part of 1846, the need of certain brethren who laboured in the word and doctrine came before me, and God laid them on my heart to labour for them in prayer, in order that I might obtain means from Him for such brethren to a greater extent than I had done before. Ever since then the Lord has been pleased increasingly to use me in this way. For from May 26, 1846 to May 26, 1848, there was spent for that object nearly three times as much as during any former period of the same length; and during the period from May 26, 1848 to May 26, 1850, I was not only allowed to do as much as before, but to expend even 1016l. 5s. more than during the former period, notwithstanding all the many heavy additional expenses for the various other objects of the Institution.

It is my sweet privilege to state, that the labours of many of these forty servants of the Lord, whom I assisted, were especially owned of God during these two years. There took place very many conversions through their instrumentality. This applies both to those who laboured among idolaters and those among nominal Christians.

4, From May 26, 1848 to May 26, 1850 the sum of 184l. 9s. 4 1/2 d. was expended on the circulation of Tracts. There were circulated during this period 130,464 Tracts. The total number which was circulated from Nov. 19, 1840 up to May 26, 1850 amounted to 294,128.

As the Missionary department was considerably enlarged during these two years, so the Tract Department also increased to nearly three times the extent that it was during the former periods, for which I desire to be grateful to the Lord, and I rejoice in it as a means by which the Lord may be pleased to do much good; indeed already we can say, we are not without fruit.

Besides English Tracts, we circulated many in German and French, also some in Welsh, and a few hundreds in Portuguese and Italian.

On May 26, 1848, there were 122 Orphans in the four Orphan-Houses in Wilson Street, Bristol. There were admitted, before the New Orphan-House was opened, 9 fresh Orphans, making 131 in all. Of these, however, one was taken by her relatives to Australia, to which they emigrated, and wished her to accompany them. Three were sent to their relatives till they might be cured, on account of such diseases as made them unfit to be with other children. Two fell asleep in Jesus as decided believers, of whom the one had been several years in the house and converted some months before her death. The other had been only six months under our care, when she died. Almost immediately after her admission she was found to be in consumption, but the Lord allowed us the joy of winning her soul for Him. Two girls were sent out to service, both as believers. And four boys and one girl were apprenticed. The actual number, therefore, of Orphans who were removed from the four rented Orphan-Houses in Wilson Street, Bristol, on June 18th, 19th, 20th, and 21st, 1849, into the New Orphan-House on Ashley Down, Bristol, was 118. Some of these children had been received when the first and second Orphan-Houses in Wilson Street were opened, and had therefore been with us, at the time of our removal, more than twelve years, and they remained several years afterwards, for we keep them as long as it appears to us good for them, irrespective of expense. Thus we have the joy of seeing very delicate and sickly little children grow up and become healthy young men and women, whilst otherwise, humanly speaking, they might never have been reared, or, at all events have been sickly all their lives for want of a healthy place of abode, of cleanliness, or a sufficient quantity of wholesome and nourishing food. But especially we have in this way the great joy of seeing many of these Orphans brought to the knowledge of the Lord Jesus, through the blessing which God grants to our training them up in His fear from their earliest days. It is never with me a question how much money each child costs, through being retained so long, but only that bodily, mentally, and spiritually they may be benefited through our care. To make them useful for time, and to win their souls for the Lord, are our great aims concerning them.

After the New Orphan-House had been opened, and the 118 Orphans from Wilson Street, with their teachers and other overseers admitted into it, I did not at once receive fresh Orphans; but, in order that all the necessary regulations of the new establishment might be properly made, and especially, in order that I myself might first learn what was the best way of regulating it, we waited five weeks before the reception of fresh Orphans. On July 24th, 1849, this commenced, and from that time up to May 26, 1850, altogether one hundred and seventy Orphans were received, from ten months old and upwards, so that on May 26, 1850, there would have been 288 Orphans in the New Orphan-House, including the 118 removed into it from Wilson Street, had there been no changes. But of this number two young children died, two Orphans were taken back by their relatives, who were by that time able to provide for them. One boy was sent back to his relations, partly on account of epileptic fits, and partly on account of oft-repeated great disobedience, in order that we might thus make an example of him for the benefit of the rest. Three boys were sent to their relatives, as ready to be apprenticed, four boys were apprenticed at the expense of the Institution, and provided with an outfit accordingly; and one girl was fitted out and sent to service.

There were, therefore, on May 26, 1850, only Two Hundred and Seventy-five Orphans in the New Orphan-House; and with the teachers, overseers, nurses, and indoor and out-door servants, &c., the whole number of persons connected with the establishment was Three Hundred and Eight. The total number of Orphans, who were under our care from April 1836, up to May 26, 1850, was Four Hundred and Forty-three.

I notice further the following points in connexion with the New Orphan-House.

1. Without any sectarian distinction whatever, and without favour or partiality, Orphans are received. There is no interest whatever required to get a child admitted, nor is it expected that a certain sum be paid with the Orphans. Three things only are requisite: a, that the children have been lawfully begotten; b, that they be bereaved of both parents by death; and c, that they be in destitute circumstances. Respecting these three points strict investigation is made, and it is expected that each of them be proved by proper documents; but that having been done, children may be admitted from any place, provided there is nothing peculiar in the case that would make them unsuitable inmates for the establishment.—I particularly request, that persons will kindly refrain from applying for children, except they are bereaved of both parents, as I can not receive them, if only bereaved of one; for this establishment has been from the beginning, only for destitute children who have neither father nor mother, and there can be no exceptions made.

2. The attention of the reader is called to the name of the Orphan Establishment. It is called the "New Orphan-House." I particularly request that the friends of the Institution will use this name and earnestly beg, in order to avoid mistake, that it may not be called the "Orphan Asylum," as there is about half a mile from the spot, where the "New Orphan-House" has been erected, another charitable establishment, which has been for many years in existence, called the "Female Orphan Asylum." But most of all I earnestly request, that the New Orphan-House be not called "Mr. Muller's Orphan-House." I have now and then been pained by observing that this appellation has been given to it. I trust that none, who recognise the finger of God in this work, will be sinning against Him by giving to me any measure of that honour, which so manifestly and altogether is only due to Him. The Lord led me to this work. He gave me faith for it. He sustained my faith for it to the end. He provided the means. He remarkably helped me through one difficulty after the other. Had He not upheld me in the midst of them all, I should have been surely overwhelmed by them. Therefore, by His help, I will not sin by taking even in the smallest degree that honour to myself, which entirely belongs to Him; and let none be sinning, by giving the least degree of this honour to me, or admiring me, instead of honouring and admiring the Lord.

3. The New Orphan-House was placed in the hands of eleven trustees, chosen by me. The deeds were enrolled in Chancery.

4. The New Orphan-House is fitted up for the accommodation of 140 Orphan Girls above seven years of age, 80 Orphan Boys above seven years, and 80 male and female Orphans from their earliest days, till they are about seven or eight years of age. The infants, after having passed the age of seven or eight years, are removed into the different departments for older boys and girls.

5. The New Orphan-House is open to visitors every Wednesday afternoon; but the arrangements of the establishment make it needful, that it should be shown only at that time. No exceptions can be made.—The first party of visitors is shown through the House at half-past two o'clock precisely, God permitting the second at three o'clock; and, should there be need for it, the third and last party at half-past three o'clock.—As it takes at least one hour and a half to see the whole establishment, it is requested that visitors will be pleased to make their arrangements accordingly, before they come, as it would be inconvenient, should one or the other leave, before the whole party has seen the House.—From March 1st to Nov. 1st there may be three parties shown through the House every Wednesday afternoon; but from Nov. 1st to March 1st only two parties can be accommodated, on account of the shortness of the days.

6. Persons who desire to make application for the admission of Orphans are requested to write to me and address the letter to my house, No. 21, Paul Street, Kingsdown, Bristol.

7. Without any one having been personally applied to for anything by me, the sum of 33,868l. 11s. 1 1/4 d. was given to me for the Orphans, as the result of prayer to God, from the commencement of the work up to May 26, 1850.—It may be also interesting to the reader to know that the total amount, which was given as free contributions, for the other objects, from the commencement of the work up to May 26, 1850, amounted to 10,531l. 3s. 3 3/4 d.; and that which came in by the sale of Bibles and Tracts, and by the payments of the children in the schools, up to May 26, 1850, amounted to 2,707l. 9s. 3 1/2 d.—Besides this also a great variety and number of articles of clothing, furniture, provisions, &c., were given for the use of the Orphans.

8. The total of the current expenses for the Orphans from May 26, 1848, to May 26, 1849, was 1,559l. 6s. 9d., and the total of the current expenses for them from May 26, 1849, to May 26, 1850, was only 2,665l. 13s. 2 3/4 d., i.e. only about Eleven Hundred Pounds more than the previous year. To avoid misunderstanding, I would request the reader to keep in mind that, though there were above 300 persons connected with the New Orphan-House, on May 26, 1850, and only about 130 in the rented Orphan Houses in Wilson Street, yet above three weeks of the second year the children were still in Wilson Street, and five weeks afterwards we had only those children who came from Wilson Street into the New Orphan-House; and even when we began to receive fresh Orphans, they came in only four, five, six, seven, or eight a-week, so that only by little and little our expenses increased.—It is also needful, in order to have a correct view of the expenses connected with the Orphans, to take into account the presents in rice, bread, coals, calico, print, shoes, &c., worth about 200l., which were given during these two years.

Matters connected with my own personal affairs, from May 26, 1848, to May 26, 1850.

Dec. 31, 1848. During this year the Lord was pleased to give me—

1. By anonymous offerings in money, put up in paper, directed to me, and put into the boxes for the poor saints or the rent, at the two chapels. . . . . L156 7 1

2. By presents in money, from believers in Bristol, not given anonymously . . . . 157 14 6

3. By presents in money, from believers not residing in Bristol . . . 145 0 0

4. By presents in provisions, clothes, etc., from believers in and out of Bristol, worth to us at least . . . . 15 16 0

————

L474 17 7

To this is again to be added, for this year also, as before stated, the free education of my daughter at a boarding school, worth at least 50l.

Dec. 31, 1849. The Lord sent me during this year—

1. By anonymous offerings in money, through the boxes in the two chapels . . . . . L149 14 9

2. By presents in money from believers in Bristol, not given anonymously . . 101 3 0

3. By presents in money, from believers not residing in Bristol . . . 158 19 7

4. By presents in articles, worth at least . 3 5 0

———-

L413 2 4

Full account of the reasons which led me to the enlargement of the Orphan work, so that One Thousand Orphans might be provided for.

Having written down at full length the exercises of my mind respecting this deeply important step, I give them here, in the form of a journal, as recorded at the time.

Dec. 5, 1850. It is now sixteen years and nine months this evening, since I began the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad. This Institution was in its beginning exceedingly small. Now it is so large, that I have not only disbursed, since its commencement, about Fifty Thousand Pounds sterling, but the current expenses, after the rate of the last months, amount to above L6,000 a year. I did "open my mouth wide," this very evening fifteen years ago, and the Lord has filled it. The New Orphan-House is now inhabited by 300 Orphans; and there are altogether 335 persons connected with it. My labour is abundant. The separation from my dear wife and child great, on account of my being the greater part of the day at the New Orphan-House; sometimes also by night. But notwithstanding all this, I have again and again thought about labouring more than ever in serving poor Orphans. Within the last ten days this matter has much occupied my mind, and for the last five days I have had much prayer about it. It has passed through my mind to build another Orphan-House, large enough for Seven Hundred Orphans, so that I might be able to care for One Thousand altogether. The points which have led me to this thought are: 1, The many distressing cases of children, bereaved of both parents, who have no helper. I have received 207 Orphans within the last sixteen months, and have now 78 waiting for admission, without having vacancies for any. I had about 60 children waiting for admission about sixteen months since, so about 230 children have been applied for within these sixteen months. But, humanly speaking, for the next sixteen months the number of applications will be far greater, as the work is now so much more widely known; except it be that persons may hear that the New Orphan-House is quite full, and on that account may consider it useless to apply. 2, The constitution of most other charitable Institutions for Orphans makes the admission of a really destitute Orphan, i.e. a child bereaved of both parents, and without an influential friend, very difficult, if not hopeless; for admission by means of the votes of donors precludes really poor persons from having, in most instances, the benefit of these Institutions, as they cannot give the time nor expend the money necessary for obtaining such votes. I have myself seen that certain candidates had several thousand votes. The necessity of this arrangement being continued may be much regretted by many who are connected with such Institutions, but they have no power to alter it. In our case nothing is needed but application to me; and the very poorest person, without influence, without friends, without any expense, no matter where he lives, or of whatever religious denomination, who applies for children born in lawful wedlock, bereaved of both parents, and in destitute circumstances, may procure their admission. Now as the new Poor-law is against giving relief to relatives for Orphan children out of the Poor Houses; and as there is such difficulty for really poor people to get their Orphan relatives admitted into ordinary Orphan Establishments; I feel myself particularly called upon to be the Friend of the Orphan, by making an easy way for admission, provided it is really a destitute case. 3, The confidence which God has caused thousands of His children to repose in me, calls upon me to make use of it to the utmost of my power, and to seek yet more largely to be their almoner. 4, The experience which I have had in this service now for fifteen years, during which time I have gone from the smallest commencement of the work to having at present 300 Orphans under my care, calls upon me to make use of this my experience to the utmost. No member of a committee, no president of a Society, could possibly have the same experience, except he himself had practically been engaged in such a work for a number of years, as I have been. 5, This very experience makes things light to me, under God's help, which were difficult formerly, and which would be very difficult now to many; may I not therefore proceed still further? 6, If 700 more young souls could be brought under regular godly training, (and their number would be renewed from time to time,) what blessed service for the kingdom of Christ, and what profitable expenditure of labour too, with the blessing of God, even for this realm in a civil and moral point of view! 7, But that which outweighs every one of these six reasons, is lastly this: I began this Orphan Work fifteen years ago for the very purpose of illustrating to the world and to the church that there is verily a God in heaven who hears prayer; that God is the living God. (See fully about this in "Narrative of the Lord's dealings with George Muller," under the reasons why I began the Orphan Work in 1835, 1st Part, page 143-146 of the Seventh Edition.) Now this last object is the more fully accomplished the larger the work is, provided I am helped in obtaining the means simply through prayer and faith.

But whilst such thoughts have passed through my mind, there are others of another character. For instance, 1, I have already an abundance of work. 2, My dear wife has already an abundance of work. Her whole time, with little intermission (except for prayer and reading of the Word of God) is occupied directly or indirectly about the Orphans. 3, Am I not undertaking too much for my bodily strength and mental powers, by thinking about another Orphan-House? 4, Am I not going beyond the measure of my faith in thinking about enlarging the work so as to double or treble it? 5, Is not this a delusion of Satan, an attempt to cast me down altogether from my sphere of usefulness, by making me go beyond my measure? 6, Is it not also, perhaps, a snare to puff me up, by attempting to build a very large Orphan-House?

Under these circumstances I can only pray that the Lord in his tender mercy would not allow Satan to gain an advantage over me. By the grace of God my heart says: Lord if I could be sure that it is Thy will, that I should go forward in this matter, I would do so cheerfully; and, on the other hand, if I could be sure, that these are vain, foolish, proud thoughts, that they are not from Thee, I would, by Thy grace, hate them, and entirely put them aside.

My hope is in God; He will help and teach me. Judging, however, from His former dealings with me, it would not be a strange thing to me, nor surprising, if He called me to labour yet still more largely in this way.

The thoughts about enlarging the Orphan Work have not arisen on account of an abundance of money having lately come in; for I have had of late to wait for about seven weeks upon God, whilst little, very little comparatively, came in, i.e., about four times as much was going out as came in; and, had not the Lord previously sent me large sums, we should have been distressed indeed.

Lord! How can Thy servant know Thy will in this matter? Wilt Thou be pleased to teach him!

Dec. 11, 1850. During the last six days, since writing the above, I have been, day after day, waiting upon God concerning this matter. It has generally been more or less all the day on my heart. When I have been awake at night, it has not been far from my thoughts. Yet all this without the least excitement I am perfectly calm and quiet respecting it. My soul would be rejoiced to go forward in this service, could I be sure that the Lord would have me to do so; for then, notwithstanding the numberless difficulties, all would be well, and His name would be magnified.

On the other hand, were. I assured that the Lord would have me to be satisfied with my present sphere of service, and that I should not pray about enlarging the work, by His grace I could, without an effort, cheerfully yield to it; for He has brought me into such a state of heart, that I only desire to please Him in this matter. Moreover, hitherto I have not spoken about this thing even to my beloved wife, the sharer of my joys, sorrows and labours for more than twenty years; nor is it likely that I shall do so for some time to come: for I prefer quietly to wait on the Lord, without conversing on this subject, in order that thus I may be kept the more easily, by His blessing, from being influenced by things from without. The burden of my prayer concerning this matter is, that the Lord would not allow me to make a mistake, and that He would teach me His will. As to outward things, I have had nothing to encourage me during these six days, but the very reverse; for the income, for the various objects of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad, has been unusually small, only 6l. 14s. altogether, while the outgoings have been 138l. 11s. 7d. But all this would not weigh the least with me, could I be quite sure that the Lord would have me to go forward.

The especial burden of my prayer therefore is, that God would be pleased to teach me His will. My mind has also been especially pondering, how I could know His will satisfactorily concerning this particular. Sure I am, that I shall be taught. I therefore desire patiently to wait for the Lord's time, when He shall be pleased to shine on my path concerning this point.

Dec. 26. Fifteen days have elapsed since I wrote the preceding paragraph. Every day since then I have continued to pray about this matter, and that with a goodly measure of earnestness, by the help of God. There has passed scarcely an hour during these days, in which, whilst awake, this matter has not been more or less before me. But all without even a shadow of excitement. I converse with no one about it. Hitherto have I not even done so with my dear wife. From this I refrain still, and deal with God alone about the matter, in order that no outward influence, and no outward excitement ay keep me from attaining unto a clear discovery of His will. I have the fullest and most peaceful assurance, that He will clearly show me His will. This evening I have had again an especial solemn season for prayer, to seek to know the will of God. But whilst I continue to entreat and beseech the Lord, that He would not allow me to be deluded in this business, I may say I have scarcely any doubt remaining on my mind as to what will be the issue, even that I should go forward in this matter. As this, however, is one of the most momentous steps that I have ever taken, I judge that I cannot go about this matter with too much caution, prayerfulness, and deliberation. I am in no hurry about it. I could wait for years, by God's grace, were this His will, before even taking one single step towards this thing, or even speaking to any one about it; and, on the other hand, I would set to work tomorrow, were the Lord to bid me do so. This calmness of mind, this having no will of my own in the matter, this only wishing to tease my Heavenly Father in it, this only seeking His and not my honour in it; this state of heart, I say, is the fullest assurance to me that my heart is not under a fleshly excitement, and that, if I am helped thus to go on, I shall know the will of God to the full. But, while. I write thus, I cannot but add at the same time, that I do crave the honour and the glorious privilege to be more and more used by the Lord. I have served Satan much in my younger years, and desire now with all my might to serve God, during the remaining days of my earthly pilgrimage. I am forty-five years and three months old. Every day decreases the number of days that I have to stay on earth. I therefore desire with all my might to work. There are vast multitudes of Orphans to be provided for. About five years ago, a brother in the Lord told me he had seen in an official Report, that there were at that time six thousand young Orphans in the prisons of England. My heart longs to be instrumental in preventing such young Orphans from having to go to prison. I desire to be used by the Lord as an instrument in providing all the necessary temporal supplies, not only for the 300 now under my care, but for 700 more. I desire to alleviate yet further the sufferings of poor dying widows, when looking on their helpless Orphans, about to be left behind. I desire yet further to assist poor persons to whom destitute Orphans are left, and who are unable to provide for them. I desire to be allowed to provide Scriptural Instruction for a thousand Orphans; instead of doing so for 300. I desire to expound the Holy Scriptures regularly to a thousand Orphans, instead of doing so to 300. I desire that thus it may be yet more abundantly manifest that God is still the hearer and answerer of prayer, and that He is the living God now, as He ever was and ever will be, when He shall, simply in answer to prayer, have condescended to provide me with a house for 700 Orphans, and with means to support them. This last consideration is the most important point in my mind. The Lord's honour is the principal point with me in this whole matter; and just because that is the case, if He would be more glorified by my not going forward in this business, I should, by His grace, be perfectly content to give up all thoughts about another Orphan-House. Surely in such a state of mind, obtained by the Holy Spirit, Thou, O my Heavenly Father, wilt not suffer Thy child to be mistaken, much less to be deluded! By the help of God I shall continue further, day by day, to wait upon Him in prayer concerning this thing, till He shall bid me act.