Note 188 — Chapter XXII

It was not unusual with her Ladyship to anticipate the public prayers of her chaplains, by her own private intercessions for the congregation. Before the officiating minister entered upon the performance of his duty, it was her custom, knowing the awful responsibility of his situation, and the inestimable value of immortal souls, to request the Great Master of assemblies to furnish him with a subject adapted to the conditions of the people; at the same time earnestly soliciting for the preacher, wisdom, utterance, power, and fidelity; and for the hearers a serious frame, an unprejudiced mind, and a retentive heart. Whilst he was employed in proclaiming the glad tidings of salvation, she was engaged in pouring out her soul to the Great Shepherd and Bishop of souls to bless his own word; pleading that last great promise of her crucified Lord, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” And when the service of the sanctuary had ceased, she withdrew to her closet, and earnestly implored the benediction of the Spirit to accompany the labours of his servants, that many might be led to the knowledge of his grace and faith in Him. From year to year sinners were converted from the error of their ways, and believers were built up in their most holy faith; while she appeared among them as a happy mother rejoicing in their prosperity, and blessed in the blessings of her spiritual children. Thus the seed, which she had so often watered with her tears, and followed with her prayers, produced at length a plenteous harvest of immortal souls, redeemed by the blood of Jesus.