In the morning of my life the counsel of my dear mother dropped upon my soul as the dew of heaven is distilled upon the tender plant. Her laws laid down a rule of action, which preserved my moral character, and her influence formed a restraint over me against outbreaking sin; for in whatever society I met, the law of my mother met with me. My father having died when I was quite young, my mother married again, and my step-father was a Methodist preacher. My mother soon after embraced experimental religion. I had great confidence in her. She often spoke of her experience, and how she was brought from darkness to light, and how long she had been deceived in her former years, by a mere outward profession.

      I believed her testimony, and her husband being a minister, he threw a restraint around both of us. I often thought that forgiveness of sin was the greatest portion that a person could obtain this side of eternity; and concluded, that when I would come near to manhood I would give my heart to God. And in my twenty-first year I did so--I sought and found "the pearl of great price" [Matthew 13:46]. [149]

      When the time drew near, and I desired to break off my sins by my own righteousness, I often wept, and prayed in secret places, and formed resolutions; but every refuge failed me; I found no relief, because I kept it private. Finding this to be so, I resolved to come out publicly and seek peace. And while in this condition, some distance from home, and having watered my pillow with tears, about the break of day I thought I heard my name called. It awakened me; and after a moment's calm reflection I was forcibly reminded how the Lord had called Samuel (see 1 Samuel 3:1-21); and my convictions were deepened. After some time I attended a camp-meeting; and when invited to approach the altar of prayer my heart was hard, and I felt too unworthy to be among the people of God. Upon seeking pardon for several days, and having to contend with a prejudice against noise, it came to pass, that the heavenly spark was kindled in my heart; and I felt the powers of an endless life communicated to my soul by the outpouring of the Spirit; and the seal of the Holy Spirit was then stamped upon my poor heart. I felt as if I was in a new world, and thought that nothing should ever move me. I was soon after baptized, and then joined the church.

      I felt strong in God's strength; but soon had to front troubles, sorrows and dangers, and passed sleepless nights, and had hard struggles in [150] contending against the powers of darkness. The Lord chastised me as one unaccustomed to the yoke. I learned to see the vanity of the world, and the Lord taught me out of His law what I must do to glorify His name and make my life happy. I then applied my mind closely to study, and aimed for steadfastness, feeling that I was led by the Spirit to preach the gospel. Faith in Christ has ever since stood by me, and His grace has ever been sufficient for me. I will follow His teaching and guidance till death; for He has promised to lead me safely over Jordan.

[THW 149-151]