Page:A memoir of Granville Sharp.djvu/67

Rh the decay, until awakened to it by a painful circumstance, in June, 1813. Feeling it a duty to go to London from Fulham, where he then resided; he could not be prevailed upon by the remonstrances of his friends, which he did not understand, to decline the journey; but started next morning by the public coach, before the family was up. When they arose, a servant was immediately despatched after him, but he could not be found. His heavenly Father, however, had not forgotten his "little one." The generous coachman, who carried him to town, perceiving his altered state, felt much anxiety about him, and as soon as he had settled the business of the coach, hastened in search of him. He found him at the door of his chambers in the temple, wandering about in a state of incertitude, being unable to guide himself to that part of the city, which he wished to reach. He was easily prevailed upon to return to Fulham, as it was getting late, and was soon again in the tender circle of domestic love. His intellect partook of the decay of his body. But love was unwithering, like his soul. He now saw death at his door, and was almost disappointed. He seems to have fancied that the millenial glory was close at hand, and that he should witness it in the body. It was but the change, however, of a delightful dream, into an all glorious reality. His rest was at hand. On the day preceding his death, he breakfasted, as usual, with the family. His weakness was great during the day, and repeatedly obliged him to lie down. He often seemed to labor for breath. Night and partial repose came on. On the morning of 6th July, 1813, the color of his countenance was changed, but its sweet expression remained. About four o'clock in the afternoon, he fell into a tranquil slumber, and soon afterwards, without a struggle or a sigh, while those who loved him watched him, and before they were sensible of his departure, he was asleep in the arms of Jesus. All that could die, of Granville Sharp, was dead. But Granville Sharp, the immortal man; the blood-bought sinner; the little child of God; the unbending and unwavering advocate of all righteousness; the servant of truth;