strengthen my purposes, and reform my doings. Let encrease of years bring encrease of Faith, Hope, and Charity. Grant me diligence in whatever work thy Providence shall appoint me. Take not from me thy Holy Spirit but let me pass the remainder of the days which thou shalt yet allow me, in thy fear and to thy Glory ; and when it shall be thy good pleasure to call me hence, grant me, O Lord, forgiveness of my sins, and receive me to everlasting happiness, for the Sake of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
10.40 p.m.
139.
1781.
Jan. 2. I was yesterday hindred by my old disease of mind, and therefore begin to day.
Jan. i. Having sat in my chamber till the year began I used my accommodation of the morning prayer to the beginning of this year^ and slept remarkably well, though I had supped liberally *. In the morning I went to Church. Then I wrote letters for Mrs. Desmoulins 2 , then went to Streatham, and had many stops 3 . At night I took wine, and did not sleep well.
Jan. 2. I rose according to my resolution, and am now to begin another year. I hope with amendment of life. I will not despair. Help me, help me, O my God. My hope is
1. To rise at eight or sooner.
2. To read the Bible through this year in some language.
3. To keep a Journal 4 . To study Religion. To avoid Idleness.
Almighty God merciful Father, who hast granted me such continuance of Life, that I now see the beginning of another year, look with mercy upon me, as thou grantest encrease of
1 See Letters, ii. 306, for ' a liberal ' matron of the Chartreux.' dinner,' and/^ p. 104, for 'I dined 3 I conjecture that he means ob- liberally.' structions or impediments in the mind
2 Of these letters none have been part of what he calls 'my old disease published. See Letters, ii. 207, for of mind.'
one written two days earlier in which 4 Ante, p. 64. he recommends her for the post of
years,
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