CONVERSION OF A PROFLIGATE YOUNG MAN.
By B. C.
[B. C., in The Christian Life.] Mr. King, an aged local preacher from the Tavistock circuit, related to me the extraordinary manner in which it pleased God to bring him to Himself. He, with two or three others, attended a wake; they became intoxicated and remained out through the night. In the morning, somewhat ashamed of their conduct, they all resolved to proceed to the nearest town, where there was a recruiting party, and enlist for soldiers. When they arrived at Five-Lanes, on their way, they were weary, and, night coming on, they sought lodging at the only inn in the village; but the house being under repair, they could not obtain what they sought. At a loss what to do, they looked one upon another in their perplexity, when a person employed on the repairs said: “There is an old Methodist, who lives over yonder on the moor, who takes in everybody. I dare say he will find you lodgings.” This old Methodist was none other than Mr. Digory Isbell, Mr. Wesley’s friend and “pilot over the moor.” They knocked at the door, and were very cordially welcomed as “dear children” by Mrs. Isbell. A plentiful supper was provided by their kind hostess, then, being anxious to get to rest, they were conducted to their sleeping apartment before Mr. I. had returned from his work as stone-mason on the moor. His wife having informed him of the number and condition of his guests, he waited for them in the morning at the foot of the stairs, heartily shook hands with each, and bade them a cheerful welcome to the hospitalities of his cottage. Breakfast was already waiting, and they were conducted to their seats, wondering what manner of people they had fallen among. Mr. I. sat down with them, but had other matters in view besides eating and drinking. He got into familiar conversation with them, ascertained who they were, and where they were going. And now, having his mark before him, he at once assumed the solemn aspect of a preacher of righteousness, and opened to them the Law of God. He showed them their sinfulness and danger. The hell that lay before them he clearly pointed out. Now Christ was introduced, and all the fulness of His grace described. Calvary was exhibited, the constraining influence of redeeming love was brought to bear upon them, and they were urged to hasten with their sins to His feet, whose mercy was such that He forgave His murderers. Long before he had concluded this extraordinary address, King’s heart was broken before God, and his tears mingled with his drink. Such a prospect opened to his view, and such emotions struggled in his breast, that he could not proceed far in partaking of the wholesome repast prepared by his pious host. Breakfast being ended, they asked for their bill. Mr. I. assured them there was no charge for what they had received.11They were the more astonished. But as they were about to leave, Mr. I., stepping before them, locked the door and said, “You are my prisoners; we must not part without prayer.” He now got them on their knees, and pleaded with God for their repentance and salvation. It was an extraordinary scene; angels rejoiced over it: the power of the Lord was present to wound and to heal, to kill and to make alive. The door being now set open, they were dismissed to their own reflections. Not many steps had they proceeded from this house of mercy before King, turning to his companions, said, “You may do as you please, but as for me, I am determined both to go back, and to lead a new life.” This decided the matter, and they all returned to their respective homes. King sought God with his whole heart, joined the Methodist society, was soon made happy in a sense of the forgiveness of sins, and became a burning and shining light.