Page:History of Hardy, the soldier.pdf/8

 the victory over death; and then every faithful warrior will join in the triumphs of his glorious Leader. Oh! may we be there to partake the joy, and sing the praises of Emanuel!”

“These representations of the gospel, so suited to a soldier, were repeatedly enforced in different conversations by Douglas, who was an experienced veteran in the Christian warfare. He explained the scriptures, and prayed with me as often as he could, and I found my knowledge of divine things constantly increasing; so that I have the best reason to say, ‘It is good for me that I have been afflicted, before I was afflicted I went astray, but now have I kept thy word.’ It pleased God gradually to restore me to better health though still with much remaining weakness; and I trust the seeds of religion which were sown in my heart, and watered by affliction, grew and became flourishing when strength returned. I was enabled to forsake my old companions, and with Douglas, and two or three other pious soldiers, found it pleasant and profitable to maintain friendship founded on Christian principles. I was not strong enough to bear arms again and being almost worn out in the service by fatigue and age, I was ordered to return to my native country. I shall never forget the time when I parted from Douglas and the pious soldiers: we spent the whole night together in prayer and religious conversations in the morning, they accompanied me to the boat, and we took leave of each other with mutual regret.

“After a tempestuous voyage, we arrived at Portsmouth. The sight of old England delighted my heart. I hastened on shore, and behind a rock offered my most grateful praises to the God of ever mercy, I have walked from thence, and am at length arrived at this place, so sweet to my memory—so dear to my heart. In this village I hope to spend my few remaining days, and to sleep in the grave where my fathers are buried; there the weary are at rest, and then the Christian soldier will reach his heavenly country, and his eternal home.

Mr. and Mrs. Benson, and their children, were exceedingly pleased with Hardy's interesting story. In a few days they settled him in his little native cottage, and crowned his old age with comfort and peace. When the writer of this account lately visited his friend Mr. Benson, he went to Pardy's cabin, and was much pleased with his gratitude and seriousness. Edward and Amelia were then in the bloom of youth, the comfort of their parents, and the friends of the poor; them benevolence and wisdom, respectability and piety are happily united.