thing. In her character there was a beautiful and attractive consistency, exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit in all their supreme loveliness. With the most unshrinking fidelity she bore her daily cross, and conscientiously discharged every duty. Of her Christian character in general, however, the intelligent reader can hardly fail to form a tolerably correct opinion from the following pages.

Miss Richards was evidently no bigot. The remark is made here, lest an unfavourable inference should be drawn from what she says at an early period in her history respecting other denominations, of whose doings she complains in strong terms. It should be remembered, however, that that was not the age of catholicity. The adherents of Methodism were then, not unfrequently, regarded and treated as the filth and offscouring of the earth. A brighter day has since dawned on the church, and a more lovely spirit has been infused into the bosoms of her members. That sister R. rejoiced to see the dawn of this day is rendered abundantly evident from the frequent and tender allusions which she subsequently makes to those denominations.

The editor thinks it proper to say, that he does not hold himself responsible for the correctness of every sentiment found in the memoir. As to the divine directions with which the pious author believed herself to be favoured in dreams, or by powerful applications of certain passages of Scripture, in cases of per

plexity and doubt, and as to her minute and confident explanations of the designs of Providence in certain events which happened to her, they are before the reader, who will peruse the details with that caution and candour due to matters of so grave a character. It is not impossible but that Miss Richards sometimes indulged impressions of this kind further than a strict regard to the sacred volume would exactly warrant. At the same time, obstinate incredulity on such subjects is not less bigoted and unreasonable than an indiscriminating faith. The opposite error of that into which some may think sister R. was occasionally betrayed,- -we mean the error of those who entirely overlook the providence of God,-is more common, and, we may add, altogether more pernicious.

The papers of Miss Richards were put into the hands of the editor some time since, accompanied with a request that he would prepare them for publication. A very cursory examination convinced him, however, that this could not be done without a thorough revision; such a revision as could be effected only by an entire transcription. For though the author wrote a rather beautiful hand, and though her orthography was remarkably accurate, yet she was evidently not in the habit of writing for the press. Besides, we are informed by her friends, it was her intention, had she lived and acquired sufficient strength to do it, to transcribe and thoroughly correct her manuscript; so that it

might be in a more suitable state for publication. But, as she was never able to do this, the work has fallen into other hands. Of the manner in which the task has been executed it may be sufficient to say, that, though many verbal alterations, a few retrenchments, and some additions, have been made, the sense has been scrupulously retained, and, as far as grammatical accuracy would permit, the simplicity of language and peculiarity of style.

If the editor is allowed to judge of the influence which the perusal of this narrative is adapted to exert on the feelings of others from the effect which it has had on his own, he cannot doubt that the best interests of religion will be materially promoted by the publication of this little book.

A brief note has been occasionally added by the editor.

Paris, July 12, 1841.

ADVERTISEMENT.

I HAVE no other apology to offer for writing the following, than a sense of duty and a desire to be useful. It was not till some time after I experienced religion that I felt impressed to write the exercises of my mind, which I at first did simply for my own benefit; and seldom did I raise my pen without feeling, more or less, the quickening influences of the Holy Spirit.

At length I felt it to be my duty to furnish something like a history of my religious experience for the benefit of others: but, as I could see nothing remarkable in it, I soon reasoned myself out of the propriety of making the attempt. I remember, however, of thinking that were I placed in a situation favourable to retirement, and had I leisure, I might possibly make the effort. And now God, in his providence, by afflicting me, has brought me into those very circumstances.

Still I have had various reasonings on the subject, and the Lord only knows the trials through which I have passed, and the tears I have shed, on account of it. When I have thought of writing, my mind has been fruitful, and past occurrences, which I had not thought of for years, have been as fresh in my remembrance as if they had but just taken place. On

the other hand, when I have thought of declining the task, both body and mind have been afflicted; and I could get no relief till I resolved to proceed.

Such as it is, and imperfect as was its author, the manuscript is left in the hands of my friends, and to the disposal of Providence; and should what I have written be a source of consolation to the afflicted, when I am no more; or should it strengthen the faith of any one, or in the least aid him in the pursuit of heaven, I shall be amply compensated for the tears I have shed, and the labour I have bestowed. LUCY RICHARDS.

Paris, N. Y., April 17, 1837.