( 6 )
I did, sent two or three porters out purposely to search the pits for me. These men went to the miller’s house, and made enquiry for me; but, on account of the very great rain at the time, they never entered the wood, but cruelly returned to their employers, telling them they had searched the pit, and that I was not to be found. Many people in my dismal situation would, no doubt, have died with despair; but, I thank God, I enjoyed a perfect serenity of mind; so much so, that on the Tuesday after-noon, and when I had been six nights in the pit; I very composedly, by way of amusement, fell to combing my wig on my knee, humming a tune, and thinking on Archer in the play called the Beaux Stratagem.
At length the morning (Sept. 20.) the happ morning for my deliverance, came! a day that I while my memory lasts, I will always celebrate with gratitude to Heaven! Thro’ the brambles and bushes that covered the mouth of the pit, I could discover the sun shining bright, and my pretty warbler was chanting his melodious strains, when my attention was rouzed by a confused noise of human voices, which seemed to be approaching fast towards the pit. Immediately I called out, and most agreeably surprised several of my acquaintance, who were in search of me! As soon as they heard my voice, they all run towards the pit, and I could distinguished known voice exclaim, "Good God! he is still living!" Another of them, a very honest North-Briton, betwixt his surprise and joy, could not help asking me, in the
