O what would I give for more circumspection, that I might be more prepared to receive the _word_, and when command is given, publish the same.
But, unworthy creature, I often deprive myself and others of seasons of good through my negligence and barrenness.

When will the time come when I can say, all earthly things are under my feet, and the cause of religion and virtue rules predominant in my heart! Lord, hasten the day; and preserve my feet in thy path in the midst of many snares; and rather let me die than be suffered to do anything which would dishonor thy gracious and holy Name, and the profession I am making of thee before the world.
Loose my bands, and enable me to say in sincerity of heart, I am willing to serve thee freely.
With the cause for self-condemnation, which is alluded to in this entry was no doubt connected the neglect to keep up his Diary; no entry occurs for more than five months previous.

It was probably much more difficult in the position which he occupied in Germany to maintain a spirit of watchfulness and self-recollection than among his more experienced Friends in Yorkshire.

There is an allusion to this in an entry of a little later date.
7 _mo_.

8 .-- My mind feels a little more gathered than it has been for some time past; but the little outward difficulties which are continually arising have a great tendency to disperse the best feelings.