Memoirs of the Life and Writings of Henry Tanner, of Exeter. Publ. by R. Hawker

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1811 edition. Excerpt: ... lost the greater part of its value. Not dispirited, however, I went on, repaired the kiln, supplied the bricks, and set fire to the kiln afresh. But on opening it, after expecting to make up my former los3, I found the bricks not half burnt, so that my stock was wholly done. Thus the Lord, in his providence, sending one loss after another, led to the way for my removal from Exeter, preparatory to the leading my heart to the knowledge of him and of myself. Compelled by reason of my low circumstances to seek bread elsewhere, I committed all my little property to my father, that he might turn the whole into cash, and pay my creditors; and with an aching heart, I took leave of my wife and child, and set off for Plymouth, intending to seek employment in my own trade. This was in the spring of 1743. Nothing material occurred on my journey, unless a renewed instance of my unworthiness, and the divine mercy. For on the road, meeting with what the world calls a good fellow, falling first into discourse, and then, as is usual with such characters, sitting down to drink together, I drank so freely, that I became intoxicated; and thus pursuing rny journey, and night overtaking me, was obliged to lay clown by the side of an hedge. Here I desire to remark again, the graciousness of the Lord's watching over me, and preserving me from all danger. Arriving at Plymouth, I soon found employment; and as soon evil company. Many were the dangers and temptations into which I was hurried by the society of those with whom I associated. One circumstance I desire to relate, for I believe it was among the solemn means adopted for my recovery, the first loud voice of Jesus, and intended as a forerunner of a yet more gracious and effectual woii on my heart..; It was...