Page:Records of the Life of the Rev. John Murray.djvu/187

Rh ever before enjoyed; and many united their acknowledgments with his. I assured them, it was my solemn determination to preach nothing but Christ Jesus, and him crucified for every human being. Finally, they determined to open their doors for my reception: and thus, by permission of minister, and people, I again and again addressed a vast multitude from the pulpit of the Rev. Mr. Snow, of Providence, and my hearers appeared serious and attentive.

During my continuance in Providence, I became acquainted with Doctor Huse of that place, a very uncommon man, and, as it appeared to me, of a very luminous intellect. Bidding me God speed, he added: "Sir, I rejoice, that you dare be honest; how long you will continue so, I know not. At present, you are boldly facing danger, and without fear. Continue, I beseech you, to declare unmixed truth, although all men should be against you." On the 26th of October, 1773, I took a seat in the stage for Boston. Late upon the evening of that day, we reached town. I had a letter from Mrs. Hubbard, and another for a gentleman, a major Paddock: but I was unwilling to disturb strangers at an hour so improper for a first introduction, and the old question recurred: "What are you to do now?" The passengers, one after another, were dropped; I remained alone in the coach, and the coachman civilly questioned: "Where will you be set down, sir?" Can you recommend to me, a decent tavern? While he deliberated, a son of Mrs. Hubbard accosted him: "Is Mr. Murray in the coach?" "Yes, sir." He approached the door. "My mother, sir, has written to my father respecting you, and we have been looking out for you with great impatience." All was immediately settled; and thus was I met, in Boston, by the good providence of God, while my throbbing heart exclaimed: To the Lord belongeth mercy; and praise, and thanksgiving, are his righteous due.

By Mr. Hubbard I was received with great kindness, he was an innocent, honest man, and his family were truly friendly. Upon the ensuing morning I delivered my letter to Major Paddock, whose reception of me was such, as a stranger ought to expect, coolly civil; he, however, introduced me to Mr. Williams, a respectable, philanthropic gentleman, strongly attached to the writings of Jacob Bhemen. To Mr. Williams I have most gratefully to acknowledge a series of important, and essential obligations. Measures were soon in train for the purpose of procuring a place, in which I might be allowed to deliver my testimony; but every effort was ineffectual, until the following Saturday, October 30th. In this interval, I received from Mr. Thomas