I thought I was quite good enough to be saved, and disliked and often laughed at religious people.

I was in great darkness; I knew nothing of the way of salvation; I never prayed, nor was sensible of the awful danger of a prayerless state.

I wished to maintain the character of a good servant, and was much lifted up whenever I met with applause.

I was tolerably moral and decent in my conduct, from motives of carnal and worldly policy; but I was a stranger to God and Christ; I neglected my soul; and had I died in such a state, hell must, and would justly, have been my portion." "How long is it since you heard the sermon which you hope, through God's blessing, effected your conversion ?" "About five years ago." "How was it brought about ?" "It was reported that a Mr -- -, who was detained by contrary winds from embarking on board ship, as chaplain to a distant part of the world, was to preach at church.

Many advised me not to go, for fear he should turn my head; as they said he held strange notions.