In presenting to the public these extracts from the voluminous Journal of a tenderly-loved parent, it seems only necessary to observe that every effort has been made, both by her daughter and by judicious, and long-tried friends, to bring forward in a collected form such parts as may throw light on the character, labours, and dedicated life of the deceased. If they have not succeeded in giving as continuous an account as might be desirable, it has been owing to a paucity of information; one reason of which may have originated in the retired spirit of their precious relative and friend, who always preferred that what she did should be little known, and still less the subject of conversation.

The selection has been made with increasing interest, and no regret was felt till the close obliged us to take leave of a character so full of instruction and encouragement; yet this regret has given place to the hope, that by the perusal of these pages many may be led to appreciate more fully the inestimable privilege of retirement, and waiting on the Lord, in order to follow the gentle intimations of His Holy Spirit, and thus be prepared for such a part in the world's vineyard as the Great Master shall appoint.