Jan. 17. Today I have received still further help from the Lord in a
donation of 125l. for these objects. How manifest it is by all these
sums, large and small, received from God in answer to prayer, that He
does not allow me to call upon Him in vain!
Feb. 19. A brother in the Lord, who had sold his earthly possession, for
the purpose of spending the proceeds of it for the Lord, sent me 120l.
as a part, of which he wished me to use 100l. for missions, 5l. for the
Orphans, 10l. for another object not to be mentioned, to give 2l. 10s.
to brother Craik, and to take 2l. 10s. for myself.
Feb. 20. Today I have received still further 200l. of which I took 100l.
for these objects, and 100l. for the Orphans, as the disposal of this
sum was entirely left to me.--I do especially rejoice in all these
considerable donations, partly, because they enable me to assist so many
faithful servants of Jesus Christ, who labour for Him in dependence upon
Him for their temporal supplies; and, partly, because they prove that
the work of God may be carried on in dependence upon Him alone for
pecuniary means, not merely on a small but also on a large scale. See!
dear Christian reader, without making any effort whatever, simply in
answer to prayer, without personal application to any one, all these
sums come in. And thus it has now been going on for more than sixteen
years, [was written in 1850]. Persons said to me fifteen years ago, that
it was impossible to carry on such a work for any length of time,
without regular subscriptions; for the interest which was taken in it at
first, would wear off. I never believed such statements. I was assured
in my inmost soul that, if the work of God was carried on in God's
way, that was the best pledge that it would be provided by God with
pecuniary means. Thus I have found it ever since March 5, 1834, when
this work commenced. For since that time I have received above
Forty-four Thousand Pounds altogether, [up to May 26 1850 only]; and the
Lord has so enlarged the work and helped me, that during the last three
years I have had the privilege of paying away in His service, in
connexion with this work, about Twenty-five Thousand Pounds; nor have 1
had during this period in any one instance to meet a payment, without
being previously provided by the Lord with means for it. If it pleased
the Lord to condescend to use me further in this way, He could so order
it that even a still larger field of labour were intrusted to me, which
would require still greater sums. Truly, it must be manifest to all
simple hearted children of God, who will carefully read the accounts
respecting this Institution, that He is most willing to attend to the
supplications of His children, who in their need cry to Him; and to make
this manifest is the great object I aim at, through the means of this
Institution.
March 13. The same donor who sent me on Feb. 19th the donation of 120l.,
sent me today 100l. more for missions.
March 15. From C. W. for missions 30l.
April 1. Anonymously through Bethesda boxes 2d. for missions.
Anonymously through Salem boxes 30l., with these words: "5l. for dear
brother Müller, 5l. for dear brother Craik, 5l. for the poor, 5l: for
the rent, 5l. for missionary work, 5l. for the Scriptural Knowledge
Institution." The last mentioned 5l. I took for the circulation of
Bibles and Tracts, and for the various Schools.
April 15. Anonymously through Salem boxes 1d. for missions.
April 18. Received 250l., which, being entirely left at my disposal, I
took 100l. for the current expenses for the Orphans, and 150l. for
these objects. Thus I have especially the joy, in answer to my daily
supplications, of being able to continue to assist many home and foreign
labourers who labour in the word and doctrine.
May 13. Anonymously for foreign missions 1s.
May 23. Received 360l., of which the kind donor wished me to take 10l.
for my own personal expenses, and the 350l. were left to my disposal,
just as the work of the Lord in my hands might require it. I took
therefore one half for the current expenses for the Orphans, and the
other half for these objects, and I have thus the means to continue to
send help to home and foreign labourers.
May 27. From the same donor, who gave on Feb. 19th 120l., and on March
13th 100l., 20l. more for missions.
Aug. 4. During the last month I had sent to home and foreign labourers
about 150l., and many heavy extra expenses had been met for the Schools
and the circulation of Tracts, on which account our means for these
objects began to be reduced, when I received this morning 200l., which,
being left entirely at my disposal as might be most needed, I took for
these objects.
Aug. 9. Anonymously 5l. for home and foreign labourers in the Word.
Aug. 30. 50l. from the donor spoken of under May 27th. Half this sum lie
intends for the Orphans and half for missions.
Sept. 18. I received 100l., to be used as might be most needed. This sum
came after I had repeatedly asked the Lord for more means, as the money
in hand for these objects was now less than it had been for several
months. I took, therefore, the whole of this sum for these objects.
Nov. 3. The means were now again low, lower than they had been for many
months, when I received 200l., which, being left at my disposal as most
needed, I took entirely for these objects.
Dec. 7. Before our means were exhausted for these objects, when there.
was yet 140l. in hand, I received today a donation of 150l., the
disposal of which was left to me, to use it either for the Orphans or
any part of the work of God in my hands. I took 100l. for these objects,
and 50l. for the Orphans.
Jan. 2, 1850. The new year commences, even as to this part of the work,
with new mercies. There was given to me 160l., to be used as might be
most needed, of which sum I took 100l. for these objects, and 60l. for
the Orphans. Thus, before all means are expended, while there is yet
about 100l. in hand, the Lord sends me again a fresh supply, in answer
to my daily supplications, whereby I am enabled to go on with the
circulation of Bibles and Tracts, the meeting of all the expenses
connected with the various Schools, and still further to help preachers
of the Gospel at home and abroad.--I take this first donation from
the Lord in this new year, as an earnest that He will help me during the
whole of this year also in regard to means for these objects.
Jan. 30. During this month I had been especially led to send much
assistance to home and foreign labourers. Also in other respects the
expenses for these objects had been considerable. On this account the
funds for them had been reduced to about 80l., when I received this
evening 450l., of which the donor kindly wished me to take 50l. for my
own personal expenses, to give to Brother Craik 50l., and to use the
other as might be most needed. I took therefore 200l. for the Orphans,
50l. for foreign missions, 25l. for home missionaries, 25l. for the Day
Schools for poor children and for the Adult School and the Sunday
School, 25l. for the circulation of Gospel Tracts, and 25l. for the
circulation of the Holy Scriptures.
Feb. 10. Received 180l., which the donor left to my disposal, as it
might be most needed for the work of God in my hands; he only desired in
his kindness that I should take 20l. of it for my own purse. As there is
a considerable sum in hand at present for the supplies of the Orphans, I
took the whole of this donation for tile other objects, whereby I am
enabled to go on more and more in aiding missionary work, and in
continuing the circulation of Bibles and Tracts.--I have great
delight in showing also by this and other instances to which reference
has been made, how the Lord is mindful of my own temporal necessities,
whilst I endeavour to serve Him, in entire reliance on Him for what I
need with regard to this life, without any salary or any regular income
whatever, so that He not only gives me as much as I absolutely need, but
most bountifully supplies me; for generally I receive from Him far more
than 1 need for myself and family.
March 23. During the last six weeks has been paid out for the
SchoolBibleTract and Missionary objects alone about 270l., and
very little comparatively has been received. On this account came in
most seasonably, and very manifestly in answer to prayer, a donation of
152l. 3s. 6d., which I received this morning, and which I took for these
objects, to replenish our means for them.
March 30. From C. W. 30l. for foreign missions.
May 3. During the last month but very little was received for these
objects, whilst, for missionary purposes alone, 113l. was paid out. Now
this morning I received a registered letter, containing 60l. with these
words:
"---- May 1, 1850.
"Dear Brother,
"I send you 50l, for the missionaries, and 10l. for the Orphans, having
just sold out part of my property in the funds. It pleases me to find
that your new Report will soon be out.
Believe me to be, dear brother,
Yours truly in Christ,
* * * *"
This donation came after many prayers to the Lord for supplies. The work
is now large. The outgoings are great. During the last month were again
expended about 500l. for the various objects of the Institution, nor
have I any prospect that the expenses will decrease; yea, I have no
desire that they should. I have as great satisfaction, as much joy, in
writing checks for large amounts upon my bankers, as I have joy in
paying over to them checks, or bank orders, or large notes, which I
receive from the living God, by means of donors, for this work. For the
money is of no more value to me than as I can use it for God; and the
more I can pay out for the work of God, the more prospect I have of
being again supplied by Him; and the larger the sum is, which I can
obtain from Him, in answer to prayer only, the greater the proof of the
blessedness and the reality of this mode of dealing directly with the
living God, for what I need; therefore, I say, I have as much joy in
giving out as in receiving. I have been devoting myself, for instance,
with all my might, both of body and mind, but especially by labouring in
spirit, to have the Orphan-House filled with children, not only that
thus three hundred destitute Orphans, might be lodged, boarded, clothed,
instructed, and in every way cared for, bodily, mentally, and
spiritually; but also, in order that thus large sums might be needed and
expended, and I might have a greater call than ever to draw largely upon
the inexhaustible treasures of God. That I do not mean, in thus
speaking, to say that money so obtained by prayer may be wasted, will
scarcely need to be noticed; for if any one would obtain means from God
by prayer only, and then waste them, he would soon find that he is not
able to pray in faith for further supplies.
May 7. The donation of 50l. for the missionary brethren, received four
days ago, was very refreshing to my spirit, and most manifestly to me
another answer to prayer; but it did not hinder me from continuing in
prayer for more means, as I have a great desire to spend again, by
God's help, considerable sums in connexion with these various objects,
in the course of this month. Moreover, I was looking out for answers to
prayer, and therefore expected still further means to come in on the
4th, the 5th, and yesterday; and, as I received nothing, I only prayed
the more earnestly, instead of being discouraged. And thus it was that I
obtained this morning a still further answer to my supplication, in a
donation of 150l., of which I took half for the Orphans and half for
these objects, as the disposal of the money was left to me.
My dear Christian reader, will you not try this way? Will you not know
for yourself, if as yet you have not known it, the preciousness and the
happiness of this way of casting all your cares and burdens and
necessities upon God? This way is as open to you as to me. Every one of
the children of God is not called by Him to be engaged in such a service
as that to which He has condescended to call me; but every one is
invited and commanded to trust in the Lord, to trust in Him with all his
heart, and to cast his burden upon Him, and to call upon Him in the day
of trouble. Will you not do this, my dear brethren in Christ? I long
that you may do so. I desire that you may taste the sweetness of that
state of heart, in which, while surrounded by difficulties and
necessities, you can yet be at peace, because you know that the living
God, your Father in heaven, cares for you. Should, however, any one read
this, who is not reconciled to God, but is still going on in the ways of
sin and carelessness, unbelief and self-righteousness, then let me say
to such, that it is impossible, that you should have confidence to come
boldly to God in such a state, and I therefore ask you to make
confession of your sins to Him, and to put your trust for eternity
entirely in the merits of the Lord Jesus, that you may obtain the
forgiveness of your sins. Again, should any one read this who has
believed in the Lord Jesus, but who is now again living in sin, who is
again regarding iniquity in his heart, let not such a one be surprised
that he has no confidence toward God, and that he does not know the
blessedness of having answers to his prayers; for it is written: "If I
regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: but verily God
bath heard me; He hath attended to the voice of my prayer." Ps. lxvi.
18, 19. The first thing such a one has to do is, to forsake his evil
course, to make confession of it, and to know afresh the power of the
blood of the Lord Jesus on his conscience, by putting his trust in that
precious blood, in order that he may obtain confidence toward God.
Supplies for the support of the Orphans, sent in answer to prayer, from
May 26, 1848, to May 26, 1850.
When the accounts were closed on May 26, 1848, I had in hand a balance
of 1l. 10s. 3 ¾ d. With this amount then we began, whilst day by day
above one hundred and thirty persons were to be provided for in the four
Orphan-Houses in Wilson Street. Nor was there any money besides
available except what had been advanced to the four matrons in the
various Orphan-Houses for the week's house-keeping, which was already
more than half expended; and I had on the 30th to advance again many
pounds for the following week. Place yourself now, dear reader, in my
position, in order that you may the more clearly see the hand of God in
what follows.
On the very next day, after the accounts were closed, May 27, 1848, I
received from Westmoreland five pounds, half of which sum was intended
by the donor for the Orphans, and half for the other objects. This
donation I took as an earnest out of the hands of the living God, that
during the whole of this period also He would provide for these many
Orphans, as He had done in former years.
May 28. Received anonymously 3s. 9 ½ d., and from A. S. A. 10s. 2 ½
d.
May 29. Today I have received 100l., which, being left to me as most
needed, I took half for the Orphans, and half for the other objects. How
kind of the Lord to refresh my heart thus in sending me this seasonable
help at the very commencement of this period, as there was so little
left in hand when the accounts were closed three days since and how
especially kind, as tomorrow evening again nearly 20l. will have to be
advanced for house-keeping!
June 20. 81l. 8s. 4d. had come in since May 26th. Without any difficulty
I had been able to meet all the expenses as they occurred; but now all
our money was gone, and this evening I had again to advance the means
for a week's house-keeping, whilst there was nothing in hand. Now
observe, dear reader, how the Lord helped me! Whilst I was in the very
act of beseeching the Lord for fresh supplies, two sisters in the Lord
called, who desired to see my dear wife for a few minutes. It was for
the purpose of giving her fifteen pounds for the Orphans.--About half
an hour after, a brother from Devonshire called, who, on leaving, gave
me 5l. for the Orphans. This evening I received still further from
Norwich 1l. 1s., together with an eye-glass and a parcel of clothes.
There was received also 1s. for Reports. Also a Christian brother from
Barnstaple gave me half a sovereign. Thus I was able to meet the
house-keeping expenses for the coming week, and to order 2 cwt. of soap,
which was needed, amounting altogether to 20l. 10s., and have 1l. 2s.
left. The day began and I had nothing, and yet the Lord enabled me to
meet all its demands, and I have 1l. 2s. over.
June 21. The Lord is already beginning to give fresh supplies towards
the need of the coming week. This morning was sent to me from Essex a
large silver mug. There has come in further today from Bath 5s., by sale
of Reports 1s., by sale of a book 1s., from South Molton 2s. 6d., from a
lady near Bristol 5s., and through an Orphan-box 11s. 6d. and a silver
thimble.
June. 23. From Merriott 14s. 4d., from Dundry 5s., through A. S. A. 1s.
6d., from a sister 5s., by sale of Reports 3s. 4d, by sale of articles
1l. 4s. 10d., by the children's knitting 4s. 6d., and from the Isle of
Wight 14s. 7d.
June 25. Anonymously from Teignmouth 5l., through Bethesda boxes 6d.,
ditto 2d.
June 26. From L. M. 1s. 1d., brother F.'s Orphan-box 1s. 1d., by
profit from the sale of ladies' baskets 10s., anonymously 1s., ditto
6d., ditto 1d.
June 27. By sale of articles 17s. 3d., from Clifton 10s., from a sister
10s., through a box in my room 10s., from Tiverton 5s., and through the
boxes in the Orphan-Houses 4l. 5s. 2d.--Thus we have bad again this
evening, in answer to prayer, all the means required for the
housekeeping expenses of the coming week, and have a few shillings
left.
July 4. Though this day week I had all the means requisite for advancing
the house-keeping expenses for this week, yet, after having done so,
there remained only a few shillings. I had therefore again to seek help
from God respecting the means requisite for this evening, besides means
for other expenses, which in the course of the week might come upon me,
as the regular house-keeping expenses are not one half of the whole of
the expenses for the Orphans. Now, during this week also, I have been
helped by the Lord in the following manner:--
On June 28th I received from Uppingham 10s., and 10s., and 1s. Also by
sale of Reports came in 6s.--On June 30th was sent from Tetbury 10s.
On July 1st a brother in the Lord gave me 10l.--On July 2nd from
A. S. A. 1l., and from a sister 5s. Also anonymously 4s., ditto 10s.,
ditto 1s. 6d.--On July 3rd from a brother 1l.-July 4th. By sale of
articles 2l. 3s. 6 ½ d., and by knitting and needlework 6l. 13s. 10d.
Thus I was again able to advance this evening the means for the
house-keeping expenses of the coming week, and have a few shillings
left.
July 6. The more the Lord is pleased to help me, the more, by His grace,
I have confidence in Him. Therefore, though there were only a few
shillings left the evening before last, I set myself to prayer that God
would be pleased to send everything requisite for continuing this work.
Accordingly, two ladies left today, anonymously, at the Infant
Orphan-House, 2 old foreign gold watches, an old silver watch, a small
gold chain, 6 gold mourning rings, a pair of gold earrings, and 2
necklaces. There was also given today 10s., and 2s. 2 ½ d. came in by
sale of Reports.
July 7. From Edmonton 1l. From a Christian lettercarrier 10s., from a
sister 2s. 6d., and from M. R. 5l.
July 8. Through sister C. from a friend 2s., from M. 2s., from D. 1s.,
and from sister F. 1s. 1d.
July 9. From A. S. A. 10s. Also a brother has brought me this evening
5l.
July 10. From Street 2s., through Salem boxes 3d., and by knitting 10s.
9d.
July 11. By sale of trinkets, &c. 14l. 13s. 7d. From Gloucester 1l.,
from Tenby 1s. 6d., anonymously 5s., and from one of the labourers in
the work 3s.--Thus I had again this evening enough to meet the
ordinary housekeeping expenses for the coming week, but I am now looking
out for fresh supplies to meet the expenses connected with ordering a
fresh quantity of oatmeal from Scotland, &c.
July 12. The Lord has quickly given me an answer, and granted the desire
of my heart. I received this morning a donation of 117l. 2s. 7d., to be
used as the work of God in my hands might require. Of this sum I took
67l. 2s. 7d. for the Orphans, and 50l. for the other objects.
Aug. 1. From July 12th up to this day we were comfortably provided with
means; but this evening, at our usual prayer-meeting, I had only 8l. to
give to the four matrons towards the house-keeping expenses of the
coming week, which I did give in the full assurance that the Lord would
provide more by the time that this sum was expended, if not before.--
Now see how God at this time also helped in His faithful love, and
thereby proved that we did not call upon Him in vain. On the next day,
Aug. 2, I received from London 1l., from Buttevant 1s. 6d., from "a
Leamington grocer" 2s. 6d., from Bedminster 5s., and by sale of Reports
10s. 6d.--On Aug. 3rd came in by the sale of Reports 1s., from
Langport 7l. 4s., from a very poor widow 2s., and 8s. besides.--On
Aug. 5th was received from Mr. G. B. C. 1l. 1s., from Marbury 6d., from
Brighton 10s., from Ayrshire 1l., and from Newbury 1l.--On Aug. 6,
from the neighbourhood of Wotton-under Edge 7s., and by profit by the
sale of ladies' baskets 10s.--On Aug. 7th from a Christian lady
1l., by sale of Reports 1s., from a sister 10s., through the
Chapel-boxes 2s. 6d., and 6d., from Tockington 1l. 1s., through the
Orphan-boxes in my house 13s. 6d., from Northam 2l., and from Cork 1l.
On Aug. 8th by sale of articles 18s. 2 ½ d. By sale of Reports 8s. Thus
I had everything which was requisite for the expenses of the past week,
and had this evening, Tuesday, even 7l. left to advance towards the
house-keeping expenses of the coming week. My hope and prayer is, that
the Lord will be pleased to send in more means before this is gone, as
it will only suffice till Friday morning.
Aug. 9. The Lord has been very kind today, and proved afresh that none
who trust in Him shall be confounded. There has come in by the sale of
Reports 1l. 13s. 10d., by sale of another book given for sale 9d., and
from Clevedon 10s., together with a pair of gold ear-drops, a buckle,
and a pencil case. This evening, while I was walking in my little
garden, lifting up my heart for further supplies for the work of God in
my hands, there was given to me a registered letter from Liverpool,
containing 20l. for the Orphans. There came also from Lymington 5s. Thus
I am able to send the remainder of the money which is needed for
house-keeping expenses for this week.
Aug. 10. The Lord has sent in still further supplies in answer to
prayer. From a brother I received 1l., from the Isle of Wight 5l., from
Bath 5l., from Barking 2 gold seals, 2 pairs of gold ear-rings, 2 gold
brooches, a gold snap, a bead necklace, and a small telescope.
Aug. 11. By sale of Reports 1l. 9s. 2d. From Bath 5l.
Aug. 12. From Norfolk 1l. 10s.
Aug. 13. Anonymously 2s. 6d., ditto 6d., ditto 1s.
Aug. 14. By profit from the sale of ladies' baskets 1l.
Aug. 15. Through a box in my house 10s., by sale of articles 15s. 2d.,
by sale of Reports 2l. 0s. 6d., anonymously 2s., from Keswick 1s., from
one of the labourers in the work 10s., and from Chelsea with a great
variety of articles 7s. 8d., 7 ¼ d., and 1s. I received also from Bath
2 mourning rings.
Aug. 16, Wednesday. This afternoon I received from a brother, who had
sold the greater part of his little property, 20l., of which he wished
me to take 10l. for the Building Fund and 10l. for present use for the
Orphans. Thus I have received for the Orphans altogether in money,
besides many articles, since yesterday week the 8th, 61l. 15s. 8 ¼ d.,
whereby I have been enabled to supply the means which were yet needed
for house-keeping; and I had likewise sufficient to advance last evening
all that is needed for house-keeping for this week, and to meet 38l. 2s.
6d. extra expenses, which have come upon me during the last eight days.
How seasonable were, therefore, the various donations which the Lord was
pleased to send me since the 8th, and how manifestly did they come in
answer to prayer! But now I have again scarcely anything left, which,
however, does not cast me down, as I shall go afresh, by God's help,
to His inexhaustible treasures.
Aug. 22. Tuesday evening. The Lord has again been pleased to send me
since last Wednesday morning 17l. 14s. 9d., so that, together with the
little which was left last Tuesday evening, I was able to advance the
money needed for house-keeping during the coming week. The Lord was
pleased to provide me with means for this in the following manner. On
Aug. 17th came in 9s. 10d. from Clifton. On Aug. 18th was received by
sale of Reports 2l. 1s., and by a donation from Acklow 1l. Also a
brother from Bath left anonymously at the Boys' Orphan-House two
sovereigns. On Aug 19th a brother from the neighbourhood of Stroud sent
me 5l., of which he kindly wished me to take 1l. for my own personal
expenses and to use the 4l. as most needed, which I took for the
Orphans. Received also 9s. by sale of Reports. On Aug. 20th I received
6s. 6d. and 6s. 10d., being the contents of two Orphan-boxes, also from
the neighbourhood of Keynsham 1l., from the neighbourhood of Royston 1l.
and from Batheaston 10s.--Aug. 21. Through a box in my house 1l.,
from Doncaster 10s., by sale of Reports 18s., and from the Isle of Wight
10s. Aug. 22. By sale of Reports 17s. 6d, by sale of articles 12s.
3d., anonymously 1s., from Thornbury 2s. 6d., and anonymously 4d. Thus,
then, I had all the means requisite, and had 11 ¾ d. left.--Think of
this, dear reader! 11 ¾ d. I had left and about 130 persons were daily
to be provided for, and yet we did not go into debt at that time for
anything, nor do we now, nor have we from the commencement of this work.
Nor did I make personal application to any one for anything, nor did I
directly or indirectly speak about our need, so that persons might be
influenced to give. But why not, you may say, dear reader? Simply
because this work has for its first and primary end the benefit of the
Church at large and of the unconverted world, to show that there is
verily a God in Heaven whose ears are open to those who call upon Him in
the name of the Lord Jesus, and who put their trust in Him. Cheerfully
have I dedicated myself with all my physical, mental, and spiritual
energies to this life of faith upon the living God, for everything that
I need in connexion with my own personal and family necessities, and in
connexion with the work of God in my hands, if but by any means, through
it, multitudes of believers and unbelievers may be benefited. Thousands
have been benefited by it already, but tens of thousands my heart longs
to benefit. No trial, no difficulty, no hardships, no self-denial, will
I, by God's help, count too much, if but this end may be attained.--
I had then, as I said, 11 ¾ d. left. Now observe how the Lord helped me
again this time in answer to the supplications which the evening before,
Aug. 22nd, my fellow-labourers and myself had offered up to Him.
On Aug. 23rd, the very next day, came in early in the morning 4s. 6d. by
sale of Reports, and a Christian brother from Barnstaple sent 1l. with
Matt. vi. 11 ("Give us this day our daily bread"). Also from Torquay
was sent a half-sovereign. From Budleigh Salterton 1l., and from
Weymouth 2l. together with a gold brooch. There arrived also a parcel
from Stowmarket containing the following little sums; 6d., 7s. 6d., 2s.,
2s. 6d., 10s., 6s., and 5s. There came in also from Bath 18s. for
Reports. Thus I received altogether that day 7l. 5s. 6d., whereby I was
enabled to order 8 cwt. of rice, as I was informed the evening before
that our store of rice was exhausted.
Aug. 24. By knitting of the children 2s. 3d.
Aug. 25. By sale of Reports 1s., and from F. B. B. 2s. 6d.
Aug. 26. Saturday. Next Tuesday evening again a considerable sum will be
needed for house-keeping, whilst at the beginning of this day I had
nothing yet towards meeting this demand. Now observe the kindness of the
Lord in helping me again bountifully this day. I received from a sister
at Tottenham 2l., from Norton St. Philip's 10s., from a village near
Leeds 5l., from Southwell 10s., from Edinburgh 21l., of which the donor
kindly wished me to take 6l. for my own personal expenses, and 15l. for
the Orphans; and from Thornbury for Reports 10s. 6d., as a donation, 2
old three-penny pieces and 20 copper coins, also 5s. from another donor
near Thornbury.
Aug. 27. A half-sovereign was received, but the place of the donor is
not to be mentioned; from an aged Christian woman 3l. and a pair of
silver shirt buttons; and by sale of Reports 10s.
Aug. 28. From a sister as the profit from the sale of ladies' bags 6s.
6d., anonymously 2s. 6d., by sale of Reports 12s., from Weymouth 2l.,
also 4s., 1s., and 1s. 6d., and from Ryde 1l.
Aug.29. Anonymously from Torquay 1l. There came in also by sale of
articles 17s. 6d., by sale of Reports 10s. 6d., and from a sister 2s.
6d.--Thus, by the help of God, we have again received by this Tuesday
evening 42l. 3s. 9d., while last Tuesday evening there was only 11 ¾ d.
left. How kindly has the Lord therefore, in answer to our supplications,
increased "the handful of meal in the barrel!" Thus I have been enabled
to advance the needful sum requisite for the house-keeping expenses till
next Tuesday evening, and to meet several extra expenses. The remainder
of the money has been put by for rent, and towards meeting the current
expenses connected with the apprentices; and I am now again, without
anything on hand, looking to the Lord for fresh supplies.
Now observe, dear reader, how again the Lord helped at this time also,
and notice in particular how, from all parts of the country, yea from
great distances, and sometimes also from foreign lands, the donations
are sent, and most frequently from persons whom I have never seen,
whereby the hand of God is the more strikingly made manifest.--I
relate now how we were helped in answer to our prayers, this time, when
nothing was left.
Aug. 30. Wednesday evening. I had this evening a long season for prayer
for the work in which I am engaged, and sought also especially help from
God as to means for present use for the Orphans. While I was in prayer,
a parcel of clothes was brought from Weymouth for the benefit of the
Orphans, and shortly after another parcel. There were also sent 2s. 6d.
as a donation, and 1s. 6d. for Reports. A few minutes after I had
finished praying, I received an anonymous letter from Teignmouth,
containing 1l. and these lines; "The Lord permits me to send you the
enclosed. Dear brother, Only believe,' O how great is thy
goodness, which Thou hast laid up for them that fear Thee; which Thou
hast wrought for them that trust in Thee before the sons of men.'
Yours ever in Him."--How again has been fulfilled in my experience
that word "Only believe!" I am now looking out for more, for I shall
shortly again need many pounds, for the current expenses for the
Orphans.
Aug. 31. Received from Hull 1l. 8s. 10d., of which 16s. 3 ¾ d. is from
A. Z., who intends of this, 10s. for the Building-Fund, and the
remainder as most needed, which I took for present use for the Orphans.
A young man also sent through A. Z. 6s., and the remaining 6s. 6d. is
for Reports. This morning also a sister in the Lord from Malvern called
on me, who brought from herself and a few other sisters 4l., of which
10s. is intended by a sister for foreign missions, and the rest to be
used as most needed, which I therefore took for the Orphans. I also
received from Cheltenham 6s., and 10s. for Reports from Teignmouth, 10s.
ditto from Street, and 1s. and 6d. as donations from Street.
Sept. 1. Received from several believers at Bowness 3l. 0s. 6d., of
which they kindly intend 1l. for myself, 1l. for foreign missions, and
1l. 0s. 6d., for the Orphans.--From A. S. 5l.--By needlework of
the children 6s. 1d., from Shirehampton 5s., and from a sister 2s. 6d.
Sept. 2. From Ilfracombe 1l. 10s. From Wakefield 10l. From Windsor 8l.
10s., of which 2l. 7s. is for Narratives and Reports. By sale of Reports
1l. 8s. 8d., and for needlework done by the Orphans 1l. 17s. 2d.
Sept. 4. A very poor Christian widow, having come into the possession of
10l. through the death of her mother, gave 1l. of it for the Orphans.
This sister in the Lord has since fallen asleep. Will she regret the
gift now? Our time is short, very short. Let every child of God stand in
the place of service in which He has set him, working while it is called
today, "for the night cometh when no man can work." Again and again,
while looking over my journal, I meet with names of donors, who have
fallen asleep. Shortly, dear reader, your turn and mine may also come.
Sept. 5. The boxes in my house contained 1l. 6s. There came in also by
sale of articles 5l. 1s. 8d., by sale of Reports 14s. 4 ½ d., through
the boxes of the Orphan-Houses 4l. 14s. 9 ½ d., and from a sister 10s.
Thus this evening, Tuesday, it was found that the Lord had sent in again
since last Tuesday evening, when there was nothing in hand, nearly 50l.,
so that I have been able to meet all the extra expenses of the week, and
to advance again this evening money for house-keeping for the coming
week.
Now see how the Lord helped further for the week after this.
Sept. 6. By sale of Reports 13s. 9d. Sept. 8. From a lady 7s. 6d.
Sept. 9. By sale of a small cask of pickles, given for the purpose, 12s.
A brother and sister gave 3l., as a thank-offering to the Lord for
the conversion of two brothers, in one week, in answer to prayer. From
London 5l. By sale of articles 1s. 4d. From Scotland 12s. 6d. for
Reports, and 3s. 6d. for the Orphans. From Crediton was sent 10s., 3s.
6d., and 11s.
Sept. 10. By sale of Reports 11s. 8d.--From a sister 2s. 6d., and
through ditto 1s. 6d. Anonymously 1s.
Sept. 11. Profit from the sale of bags 10s.--From a brother in London
10s. From Scotland 3l. 18s. 7d. with 1l. for myself.
Sept. 12. Tuesday. By sale of articles 18s. 8d. By sale of Reports 3s.
By a donation 1s. Thus again about 20l. has come in during the past
week, and, with what remained in hand last Tuesday evening, I have had
over and above what is needed for house-keeping expenses for the coming
week.--When I came home this evening from our usual weekly prayer
meeting for the Lord's blessing upon the various objects of the
Scriptural Knowledge Institution, I found that a brother from Tavistock
had left at my house 2l. 2s. 6d.
Sept. 13. By sale of Reports 8s. 2d.--From a Christian lady 2 crown
pieces and 2 pairs of socks.--From East Coker 1l. 10s., together with
many gold articles, &c. Also 1s. 6d. with many articles and some coins.
From Belper 10s. for Reports, and 10s. as three donations.
Sept. 15. From Kingstown 5s. as a donation and 10s. for Reports.--
This evening 1l. was left anonymously at my house; and a brother left 2
sovereigns at the Boys' Orphan-Rouse. A little boy gave 8d., and 6s.
6d. came in by sale of Reports.
Sept. 10. From a brother at Clifton 1l. 10s.
Sept. 17. By sale of Reports 13s. A.S.A. 10s. Anonymously 10s. From a
sister 2s. 6d. Through a sister 10s.
Sept. 19. Tuesday. A gentleman called on me this morning and gave me
half-a-sovereign for the Orphans, but would not give his name.--By
sale of articles 3l. 0s. 6d., by Reports 8s. 6d., through the box at my
house 1l., by a donation 10s. 6d., and paid on behalf of two Orphans 1l.
15s. Evening. Thus again more than 20l. has come in in money during this
week, besides many valuable articles. I was thus able to advance all
that was needed for house-keeping, and what was left I put by for rent
and material for clothes, which have been ordered, trusting in God for
fresh supplies for next Tuesday.
The Lord helped us this time again, as the following shows.
Sept. 20. By sale of a Report 6d.
Sept. 21. From Barnstaple was sent 1l. 5s.--Boxes in my house 10s.
6d.--This morning a Christian from Somersetshire called at my house,
and said, he only wished to put something into the Orphan-box, and then
put in a sovereign.--From Leicester was sent 1l.--This afternoon a
letter was left at my house, containing a five pound note and these
words: "From a Believer in the efficacy of the prayer of faith, to be
appropriated as Mr. Müller may think fit." As there was only 3l. 16s.
in hand for the Orphans, I took this donation for them.--This evening
I had again an especial season for prayer respecting the various objects
of the Institution. Almost immediately, after I had risen from my knees,
I received from Sunderland 1l.
Sept. 23. From Norwich 10s. From Bath 5l. Through a sister in Bristol
5s.
Sept. 24. Anonymously from Liverpool 10s.--From Stourbridge 1l.--
From A. S. A. 6s. 8 ½ d. By sale of Reports 2s. 6d. From Cheshire 2l.
Anonymously 5s.
Sept. 25. The contents of an Orphan-box 18s. 10d.
Sept. 20. From Brighton 5s. By sale of articles 2l. 6s. 8d. By sale of
Reports 1l. 6s. Through Orphan-boxes 5s. 2d. Ditto 2s. 9d. Through the
boxes at the Orphan-Houses 2l. 14s. 11d.--Thus the Lord has again
sent in about 25l. during the week, whereby I have been enabled to meet
all the extra expenses of the week, and to advance for the house-keeping
expenses of the coming week.
Sept. 27. When today there was again only a few shillings in hand, I
received from Sunderland 2l. 19s. 6d. for Reports. Also from a sister in
Bristol 10s. from another 10s. as the profit from the sale of ladies'
baskets, and from Plymouth 1l.
Sept. 28. By the sale of trinkets and old silver 9l. 10s.
From Scarborough 2l. as a donation, and 6s. for Reports.--From
Barnstaple 2l. 0s. 9 ½ d. By sale of Reports 10s.--From a donor in
Bristol 1l.
Sept. 30. From a Christian gentleman in Bath 1l. From Oswestry 7s. By
sale of Reports 12s.
Oct. 1. By Reports 3s. 4d. From A. S. A. 11s. 10d. Anonymously 10s. From
Devonshire 6s. 6d.
Oct. 2. From Liverpool 2s. 6d. By Reports 7s. 6d. From a Brother in
Bristol 1l.
Oct. 3. By sale of Reports 2s. 6d. and by sale of articles 1l. 9s. 9d.
Thus by this evening, Tuesday, again about 28l. has come in, and I have
been able to meet all the extra expenses of the work, and advance money
for the week's house-keeping; but have now again scarcely anything
left.
Oct. 4. By sale of trinkets came in 2l. 17s. 6d.
Oct. 5. From a sister 2s. 6d. From Kingsbridge 1l. 5s.
Oct. 0. By knitting 15s. 3d.
Oct. 7. Received from Sherborne 1l. 9s. 4d. Received also from the
neighbourhood of Dartmouth 1l. 0s. 6d. There came in likewise through
sister E. Ch. 1l. 5s. 10d.--Also 5l. 14s. 0 ½ d., being part of the
proceeds of a little publication.
Oct. 8. From A. S. A. 5l. Anonymously 1l. Ditto 6s.
Oct. 9. By sale of a Report 6d. From a sister 10s.
Oct. 10. From Cheltenham 10s. By sale of articles 4l. 0s. 1d. By sale of
Reports 6s. 2d.--Thus, by this evening, Tuesday, again the sum of
26l. 2s. 8 ½ d. had come in. I was, therefore, able to meet all the
housekeeping expenses of the coming week, besides having paid away 8l.
15s. for apprentices, &c., and have 12s. 8d. left in hand. My heart is
assured that the Lord will help further.
Now, dear reader, did the Lord help this time also? Yes, He did. Could
it be otherwise? No; for they that trust in the Lord shall never be
confounded. Let me then relate to you the way in which God helped us,
going on with the extracts from my journal.
Oct. 11. At our meeting yesterday evening we made our supplication to
God that He would be pleased to help us further. Immediately after the
meeting I received 10s. Also when I came home I found that 6s. had been
brought from Gosport for Reports, and 1s. 6d. as the proceeds of an
Orphan-box at Gosport. Also 5s. was put by the bearer of the money into
an Orphan-box at my house, who also brought a woollen shawl.--Today
1l. was left at one of the Orphan-Houses by "an aged person of a Bristol
alms-house," who would not give her name. There came in also by sale of
stockings 1l. 4s. 6d. There was likewise left anonymously at my house,
an old silver watch, 2 mourning brooches, and 2 gold pins. Thus the Lord
has already sent in a little.
Oct. 12. Received in an anonymous letter 1s. 8d. From the Isle of Man
2s. 6d. By sale of Reports 1l. 13s. 6d. Through a brother in Scotland
1l.--From two young gentlemen at Clifton 4s.--From Street 1s. 6d.
Through an Orphan-box 2s. 1d.
Oct. 13. From some believers near Kingsbridge 1l. By sale of articles
15s. Left at the Boys' Orphan-House 5s.
Oct. 14. From Bideford 2l. By sate of Reports 8s. By children's
needlework 19s. 8 ½ d.
Oct. 15. By sale of Reports 2s. 6d. From A. S. A. 13s. 5d. From
Barnstaple 1l. From Yorkshire 5l., with these words: "Please to accept
the enclosed 5l., as a thank-offering to God for an answer to prayer, in
the conversion of a soul. I should like half of it to go to the Orphans,
the other half I leave to your discretion." The other half I put to the
Building-Fund.
Oct. 10. From Horsington 10s.--Through the boxes at my house 15s. 0
½ d.--From a sister 5s.
Oct. 17. From Reading 1l. By sale of Reports 5s. 6d. By sale of articles
4l. 10s. 6d.--Thus by this evening, Tuesday, the Lord had sent in
again 23l. 11s. 3d., whereby I had enough for advancing the
house-keeping expenses of the coming week, and the remainder I put by
for the rent and the current expenses for the apprentices.
Oct. 18. When now there was again nothing in hand, I received by sale of
Reports 12s., by a donation 7s, from Notts 5s. 1d., in small
contributions 12s. 3d., and 1s.
Oct. 19. Anonymously from Tottenham a half-sovereign. From Collumpton
8s. 6d. and 11s. 6d.
Oct. 20. By sale of Reports 4s. From Barnstaple 5s. From a sister 2s.
6d., and from Madeley 1s. From Dublin 5s.
Oct. 21. From Clevedon 1l. 10s. From Cirencester 1l. 13s. 4d. and also
3s.--By sale of Reports 1l. 2s. 6d.
Oct. 22. From A. S. A. 11s. 3 ½ d. Anonymously 10s. Ditto 8d. From a
clergyman 10s. From S. 10s. By sale of Reports 1s. 6d. From a sister 5l.
Oct. 24. By sale of Reports 5s. 4d. Boxes in the Orphan-Houses 1l. 2s.
By sale of articles 3l. 2s. 1d.--Thus by this evening, Tuesday, again
20l. 4s. 11 ½ d, had been received, and as the expenses of the coming
week for house-keeping, together with some extra expenses during the
past week, did not amount to more than 18l. 1s. 6d., I had 2l. 3s. 5 ½
d. left, which I put by for the rent and the current expenses for the
apprentices, and am again looking to the Lord for fresh supplies, and
again assured that He will help me.
Oct. 31. Since last Tuesday evening it has pleased God again to make it
abundantly manifest that we do not wait on Him in vain. Besides many
articles, there came in 24l. 4s. 8 ¾ d. As the money which was needed
for the house-keeping expenses for the coming week, together with a few
other small expenses which I had had to meet during the last week, did
not amount to more than 19l. 19s. 3d., there was more than 4l. left,
which I put by towards the rent and the expenses for the apprentices,
and hope in God for the next week.
Nov. 1. When I came home last evening from our usual weekly prayer
meeting, I found 1l. from R. L. H. Thus the Lord has already given a
little.--There arrived today a box from Reading, containing the
following articles from various donors:
A black feather. Also two pairs of ladies' shoes and a pair of velvet
boots. Also two ladies' bags, 2 pairs of bracelets, 2 waistbands, a
pair of baby's shoes, 2 neck ribands, and some white lace.--Further,
a pair of worked slippers, a thimble case, 2 pin-cushions, a
pair of baby's stays, a lady's bag, a pocket-book, a silver brooch,
2 gilt brooches, a gilt seal, and 12 yards of calico.--Further, a box
of artificial flowers. Also an urn stand. Further, a bible and prayer
book in a case. Further, a little box containing 2 gold rings, a gilt
chain, a bead necklace, some mock pearls, and a gilt buckle.--Likewise
a paper containing a smelling bottle, a pen knife, a waist
buckle, and a card.--Further, a paper containing 2 needle-cases, a
purse, 2 little books, 2 medals, a scent bag, a little smelling bottle,
3 pebbles, and 3 mourning necklaces. Another paper, containing 4 gold
rings, a gold pin, 2 old silver thimbles, the handle of a silver fruit
knife, a snuff-box, 2 silver mounted corks, 7 pin-cushions, a
needle-book, a pair of bracelets, a bead purse, a smelling bottle, a
silver brooch, a gold brooch, a bead necklace, a pair of compasses, a
broken gold watch key, 1 shilling, an old silver thimble, an emery
cushion, a gold ring, a cloak fastener, and a little bead bag.--
Another paper, containing a silk scarf, a shawl, and some muslin for
night-caps. A paper box, containing a silver-mounted smelling bottle, a
toilette cushion, an amethyst brooch, a silver butter-knife, a pair of
gloves, and 2 shillings for missions. Another paper, containing 8 ½
yards of blue print.--Also 50 books and some pamphlets. Lastly, a
gauze dress, a silk dress, a collar, and 3 caps.--I have on purpose
given here at full length the contents of this box, to show what a
variety of articles, either for sale or for the use of the Orphans, has
been sent.--There arrived also today, anonymously, a box from a
considerable distance, containing more than one hundred different
articles. There was also 5s. in this box, to pay for the carriage. This
day also came in by sale of Reports 2s. 6d., and by needlework of the
Orphans 19s. 1d.
Nov. 2. From the neighbourhood of Lutterworth a half-sovereign, from a
sister in Bristol 10s., through a brother half-a-crown and 4 frocks.
Nov. 3. From S. N. 2s. 6d.
Nov. S. From A. S. A. 8s. Anonymously 2s. 6d. By sale of Reports 1s.
4d.
Nov. 6. By sale of stockings 9s. 2d. From Cumberland 5l. From Ayrshire
1l.
Nov. 7. By sale of articles 2l. 9s. 4 ½ d., and by sale of a Report 6d.
This evening, Tuesday, as only 13l. 3s. 5 ½ d. had come in during the
week, I had only 7l. to advance towards the house-keeping expenses of
the coming week, after having met some other expenses. But I hope in God
for more, before this is gone, which will only last two or three days.
Nov. 5. By sale of Reports came in 3s., and 2s. 6d. was given by a
relative of one of the Orphans.
Nov. 9. Only 5s. 6d. had come in yesterday. Tomorrow more money will be
needed for house-keeping. In this our poverty I received this morning
One Thousand Pounds. The money being left to me for disposal as it might
be most needed, I took of it 600l. for the Building Fund, 300l. for
missionary purposes and the circulation of bibles and tracts, and 100l.
for present use of the Orphans. I have thus the means which are yet
needed for this week's house-keeping expenses, besides being able to
meet other heavy expenses which are before me next week.
Feb. 20, 1849. For three months and ten days, since Nov. 9, 1848, the
donations have always come in so, that we abounded during the whole
period, there having been always fresh donations received, before all
the money in hand was disbursed. The total amount that came in during
this period was 469l. 14s. 10d. Now today there was no money in hand for
advancing the amount needed for the next week's house-keeping. All the
money in hand was due for rent, and therefore unavailable, as I never go
in debt for anything. In this our need there was given to me this
afternoon the sum of 200l., which was left to my disposal for fitting up
the New Orphan-House, or for any of the objects in connexion with the
Scriptural Knowledge Institution that might be in need. As, however, I
have all the means for fitting up and furnishing the New Orphan-House,
as far as I know, and as there is no money in hand for present use for
the Orphans, I took 100l. for that object, and 100l. for the circulation
of Bibles and Tracts, for the Day-Schools, the Sunday-School, and the
Adult-School, and for Home and Foreign labourers in the Word.
March 9. The New Orphan-House is now nearly ready. On this account we
have to get in large supplies for the children's clothes. Within the
last few days I have ordered thousands of yards of material for this
purpose, and thousands more will need to be ordered, besides providing a
stock of many other things. For this large sums are needed. Under these
circumstances I received today a donation of 300l., to be used for the
Building Fund, or the current expenses of the various objects, just as
it might be most required. As I judge that we have all that is needed
for the fitting up and furnishing of the house, and as there is more in
hand than usual for the missionary objects, the circulation of Bibles
and Tracts, and for the various Schools, and as we have only about 60l.
for present use for the Orphans, towards meeting all the heavy expenses
before us, I took the whole of this donation for the Orphans, as the
donor has kindly left the disposal of the money entirely to me. This
donation, coming in just now, has been an exceedingly great refreshment
to my spirit; for it is, at the commencement of the great increase of
our expenses, in connexion with the 300 Orphans, instead of 120, like an
earnest from God, that He will supply us also with means when the
demands for the 300 will be more than twice as great as they are now.
Through this donation I have means to meet all the expenses which will
be incurred in getting in for the new establishment the stores of
provisions, soap, material for clothes, haberdashery, and of the many
other articles of which it would be desirable to buy our supplies on
wholesale terms. The Lord be praised for His kindness!
April 10. Received this afternoon the following letter:--"Dear
Brother,
"I have the pleasure today of sowing a little more seed-corn for
eternity. Employ the enclosed 50l., if you please, for the support of
the Orphans. The remaining 5l. be pleased to divide between yourself and
dear brother Craik.
"Yours very truly in Christ,
"* * * *"
From the same donor I had recently had two donations of 120l. and 100l.
April 11. From the brethren at Sunderland, assembling at Bethesda
chapel, 10l., as a part of their annual thank-offering to the Lord for
Church mercies during the last twelvemonth.
April 18. Today I received a donation of 250l., of which I took 100l.
for the Orphans, and the other 150l. for the other objects. Never were
the current expenses for the Orphans nearly so great as they are now,
but at the same time never was the income nearly so great. Thereby the
Lord, as it were, says, that, when the New Orphan-House shall have been
filled with Orphans, He will likewise give what is requisite for them.
Whilst yet much is in hand, He has been pleased to send this donation.
From April 19th to May 23rd, the Lord was pleased to send in still
further many donations.
May 23. Today I received 360l., of which I took half for the current
expenses for the Orphans, and half for the other objects. By this
donation I am still further provided with means to meet all the expenses
connected with the removal of the children into the New Orphan-House,
the reception and fitting out of many fresh children, the filling the
stores of the New Orphan-House, &c. How does the Lord by all this
clearly say, that, when this house shall have been filled with children,
He will provide the means for their support!
June 18. Today, as the fruit of the prayers of three years and seven
months, the children began to be moved from the four Orphan-Houses in
Wilson Street, Bristol, into the New Orphan-House.
June 23. Saturday Evening. This has been indeed a week of great and many
and peculiar mercies. All the Orphans with their teachers and overseers
have been moved into the New Orphan-House, during Monday, Tuesday,
Wednesday, and Thursday; so that there are now about 140 persons under
one roof. The Lord has most signally helped.--As I had for more than
three years sought the help of God concerning all matters connected with
the New Orphan-House, I did expect His help in this particular also; but
He has done beyond my expectations. Though only the day before yesterday
the last children were moved in, there is already such a measure of
order established in the house, by the help of God, as that things can
be done by the minute hands of the timepieces. His name is to be praised
for this, and my soul does magnify Him for His goodness!--Also with
regard to temporal supplies for the dear Orphans, the Lord has been
exceedingly kind. On the second day of receiving the children, there was
sent 20l. On the third day, an individual, who walked with me through
part of the house, said, "These children must consume a great deal of
provisions," and, whilst saying it, took out of his pocket a roll of
Bank of England notes, to the amount of one hundred pounds, and gave
them to me for the Orphans. On the same evening there was also sent for
the Orphans a very large cask of treacle, and for their teachers and
overseers 6 loaves of sugar. Also a cooper made gratuitously two large
new casks for treacle. On the next day I received information that about
10 cwt. of rice had been purchased for the Orphans, which should be
sent. Besides this, several small donations have come in. So bountifully
has the Lord been pleased to help of late, that I have not only been
able to meet all the extraordinary heavy expenses connected with moving
the Orphans from Wilson Street into the New Orphan-House, filling the
stores of the New Orphan-House, &c.; but I have more than five hundred
pounds in hand, to begin house-keeping in the New Orphan-House. How true
that word that those that trust in the Lord shall not be confounded!
After all the many and long-continued seasons of great trial of faith
within these thirteen years and two months, during which the Orphans
were in Wilson Street, the Lord dismisses us from thence in comparative
abundance. His holy name be praised for it!
In order that this chapter may not be too long, I can only mention of
the donations, from June 23, 1849, to May 20, 1850, those which came in
under particular circumstances. The total amount received from June 23,
1849, to May 26, 1850, for the current expenses of the Orphans, was
2,102l. 13s. 4 ¾ d.
Aug. 30. Received a Fifty Pound Note with these words: "I send you
herewith a Fifty Pound Note, half for the Missions, half for the
Orphans, unless you are in any personal need; if so, take 5l. for
yourself. This will be the last large sum I shall be able to transmit to
you. Almost all the rest is already out at interest." I took half of
this 50l. for the Orphans and half for Missionaries. The writer sold
some time since his only earthly possession, and sent me at different
times sums of 120l., of 100l., of 55l., of 50l, and of 20l. for the work
of the Lord in my hands. When he says therefore "the rest is already out
at interest," he means that he has given it away for the Lord, which
indeed both for time and eternity is the very best way of using the
means with which the Lord may be pleased to intrust us, in so far as,
considering in the fear of God all our various claims and duties and
relationships, we may do so. As this is written for the spiritual profit
of the reader, I cannot but add to this extract from my journal under
Aug. 30, 1849, that since that time I have received other donations from
the same donor, and much larger still. He used for God the means with
which He was pleased to intrust him, and, contrary to this brother's
expectation, the above 50l. was not the last large donation; for it
pleased God soon after, to intrust him with another considerable sum,
which he again used for the Lord. This did not at all surprise me; for
it is the Lord's order, that, in whatever way He is pleased to make us
His stewards, whether as to temporal or spiritual things, if we are
indeed acting as stewards and not as owners, He will make us stewards
over more. But for more, on this deeply important subject, I must refer
the reader to the third part of this Narrative, page 575 to 604.
Sept. 27. From friends at Othery 20l.--This donation is very
refreshing to my spirit. Last evening and this morning I had especially
besought the Lord, that He would be pleased to continue to send me
means, as the expenses are now so great; for there are 107 Orphans in
the house, and about 190 persons daily sit down to their meals, and this
number is every week increasing. Now, by this donation, which comes not
only from an entirely new but also most unexpected quarter, the Lord is,
as it were, saying to me, that He will not fail to help me, even when
there shall be about 330 persons in the house, for which number it is
fitted up.
Oct. S. Yesterday again seven Orphans were received. Every week I am now
taking in five, six, seven, or eight; and within the last nine weeks
altogether have been received, and about 200 persons sit down daily to
their meals. This has greatly increased the expenses already, and they
will be still more increased, as I purpose to receive still further 120
Orphans, if God permit, to make up the number 300. Yesterday, after
having received the seven children, I again gave myself to prayer for an
increase of means. Now today I have received from Devonshire a set of
valuable jewels, i.e. a ring set with 5 brilliants, a brooch set with 12
larger and 12 smaller brilliants and 1 large emerald, and a pair of
ear-rings, both together set with 10 brilliants and 2 emeralds. The
bearer brought also 1l. 10s. 4d. and 10s. 2d., being the proceeds of two
Orphan-boxes, likewise 1l. 4s. 6d. At the same time I received from
another brother from Devonshire. 4l.; and from a third 16s. 10d.--
Truly the Lord does not allow me to wait upon Him in vain!
Nov. 1. Today I have again received seven Orphans. There are now about
220 persons daily sitting down to their meals in the Orphan-House.
Before the seven fresh Orphans were brought, I received a letter from a
banker in London, giving me information that a brother in the Lord,
living between 200 and 300 miles from hence, had given order to pay me
40l. for the Orphans.--By the same post I received anonymously from
London 5/. from the same donor, who has now for several years sent twice
every year this amount, of which she kindly wishes me to use half for my
own personal expenses, and half for the work of the Lord in my hands. I
took the half for the Orphans.--This was not all. In the afternoon,
whilst receiving the Orphans, there came in still further 69l. 3s. 8d.,
also 2s. and a few articles.
Nov. 16. About 260l. has been spent within these 16 days, i.e. since the
first of the month, for current expenses for the Orphans alone, and
about 120l. for the other objects, making in all about 380l. within half
a month. Lord look upon the necessities of Thy servant, seeing that now
the outgoings are so large!
Nov. 30. We have been helped through this month most comfortably, though
the expenses for the Orphans have been heavier by far, than in any month
all the 14 years since this work was commenced, having been 380l. 9s.
2d., and, including the expenses for the other objects, about 540l.
Dec. 4. Today was paid to me a legacy of 50l., left for the benefit of
the Orphans.
Dec. 12. Anonymously a Bank Post Bill for 50l. 13s. 6d.
Jan. 9, 1850. Today was sent to me from the Committee of the Cholera
Fund in Bristol 20l., which the gentlemen constituting it had voted for
the benefit of the twenty children who had lost their parents in the
Cholera, and whom I had received into the New Orphan-House.
I had not applied either directly or indirectly for this money; indeed I
was reluctant even to give information as to the number of Cholera
Orphans received, lest there should be even the appearance as if after
all I asked for money, instead of solely trusting in the living God. But
some of the gentlemen on the Committee, knowing the fact that I had
received many Orphans, made such by means of the Cholera, proposed that
there should be paid to the Institution a sovereign on account of each
such child received. This sum was especially remarkable to me as a fresh
proof of the numberless ways, which God has at His command for providing
me with means.
I also cannot help noticing the remarkable coincidence that, at the time
God visited this land with the Cholera, in 1849, I had so much room for
the reception of Orphans. The Lord was pleased to allow me the joy and
sweet privilege of receiving altogether twenty-six children, from ten
months old and upward, who lost their parents in the Cholera at that
time, and many besides, since then, who were bereaved of their parents
through this fearful malady.
Jan. 31. Today five more Orphans are to be received. For the last
fortnight, comparatively little had come in for the Orphans, i.e. not
quite 60l. In the prospect of the Orphans coming today, I said last
evening to my dear wife, that the Lord would send us something for them;
for I have often found, that either He has sent something with the
children, or at the time that they have been received. It was but about
ten minutes after I had said so, when I received 450l. (see the account
of the income for the other objects), of which I took 200l. for the
Orphans. This morning I received further 10l. from a pious countess in
Edinburgh, and 10s. from Deptford. Thus the Lord has indeed sent
something for the Orphans. It is now seven months and thirteen days
since the Orphans began to be received into the New Orphan-House. The
expenses for them have been since then Fifteen Hundred and Twenty
Pounds; and yet we have this day more in hand, than when the New
Orphan-House was opened. Unbelief and natural reason would have said,
and did say, If there have often been scarcely any means in hand, while
the Orphans were in the rented houses, and only about 120 in number, how
will it be when there shall be 300 in the New Orphan-House? But
faith's reply was, Our poverty has been only for the trial of our
faith, and it will be as easy to the Lord to provide for 300 as for 120
Orphans. And thus we have proved it hitherto, and, no doubt, shall prove
it, as long as the Lord shall enable us to trust in Him.
May 25, 1850. The Lord has up to the close of this period helped also
for this as well as for the other parts of the work; for during this
last week I have received about 62l. for the current expenses for the
Orphans. With confidence in the living God I step into the new period,
though our expenses are now far heavier than ever they were, being fully
assured of His faithfulness. May He be pleased to uphold me during the
remainder of my earthly pilgrimage in His fear and truth, and may He
graciously be pleased to give me day by day the faith which my
circumstances may require.
Closing account as to the way in which the means were obtained for the
expenses connected with the erection, fitting up, and furnishing of the
New Orphan-House, Ashley Down, Bristol.
At the time where the last chapter, referring to this subject, closes,
the New Orphan-House was being built. Part of it was already roofed in,
and the remainder was to be roofed not many weeks afterwards. But how
much did there yet remain to be done in other respects! A building so
considerable as to contain about 300 large windows, would require, even
after it was finished, an immense amount of labour, to be fitted up and
furnished for 330 persons. Then, after this was done, the settling in of
the Orphans and their teachers and other overseers, needed still more
abundant help. Further, the obtaining of suitable helpers for this part
of the work, was indeed no small matter. Lastly, though the Lord had
been pleased to give me already above Eleven Thousand Pounds for the New
Orphan-House, yet I needed several thousand pounds more, in order to
bring the whole into such a state, as might render the building fit for
the reception of the Orphans. And now, in looking back, and finding that
I not only was helped in all these matters, but also in every one of
them far beyond my largest expectations does it not become me to say
to those who love the Lord Jesus, and into whose hands this account may
fall: "0 magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together!"
Each one of the foregoing difficulties which still existed on the 26th
of May, 1848, was so great, that if only one of them had remained, and I
had not been helped, what would have been the result? But while the
prospect before me would have been overwhelming had I looked at it
naturally, I was never, even for once, permitted to question what would
be the end. For as, from the beginning, I was sure that it was the will
of God, that I should go to the work of building for Him this large
Orphan-House, so also, from the beginning, I was as certain that the
whole would be finished, as if the building had been already before my
natural eyes, and as if the house had been already filled with three
hundred destitute Orphans. I was therefore of good courage, in the midst
of an overwhelming pressure of work yet to be done, and very many
difficulties yet to be overcome, and thousands of pounds yet needed; and
I gave myself still further to prayer, and sought still further to
exercise faith on the promises of God. And now, the work is done, the
difficulties are overcome, all the money that was needed has been
obtained, and even more than I needed; and, as to helpers in the work, I
have obtained even beyond my expectations and prayers. Nearly seven
years have passed away already [1856] since the New Orphan-House was
opened, and about three hundred and thirty persons sit down in it day by
day to their meals.
The Godly reader will feel interested in learning now further
particulars, as to how it pleased God to assist me in accomplishing my
desires, with reference to the preparation of the House for the
reception of the children, and I therefore relate the manner in which I
received further pecuniary supplies; and, whilst doing so, will here and
there make remarks concerning other points, which may throw light on the
subject.
Up to May 26, 1848, I had received altogether towards meeting the
expenses connected with the building of the New Orphan-House the sum of
11,062l. 4s. 11 ½ d. I now state further, some instances, merely as
specimens, as to the manner in which it pleased the Lord, to provide me
further with means for fitting up and furnishing the New Orphan-House,
without applying to a single individual personally for anything, but
only giving myself to prayer.
June 8, 1848. I received 5l. 17s. as the "Proceeds from the sale of a
Tree for the New Orphan-House."
June 17. Received 5l., of which 4l. 1s. is the proceeds from the sale of
"a second tree for the New Orphan-House," and 19s. for present use for
the Orphans.--The reader is here called upon to notice that, whilst I
had yet to obtain several thousand pounds for finishing the New
Orphan-House, all the other current expenses of the various objects of
the Institution were going on; and for none of all these pecuniary
necessities had I any regular certain income whatever, nor did I seek
help from any one but the living God only.
June 20. A brother and sister gave four silver table spoons, twelve
silver tea spoons, and a pair of silver sugar tongs for sale.
Aug. 7. From a sister in the Lord 200l.--With 2 Cor. viii. 12, 1s.
Anonymously from J. H. W. 5s., as "a thank-offering to the Lord for
His delivering goodness in sickness."--Anonymously 1s.
Aug. 13. From a brother 10s. This brother had worked overtime, and in
prayer he told the Lord that, if his employers gave him anything for it,
he would give it to the Building Fund, as he had a great desire to
contribute something towards this work, from which he had been kept for
want of means.
Aug. 16. A brother in the Lord having sold his little earthly property,
for the sake of spending the money for the Lord, brought 20l. of the
proceeds, of which he wished me to take 10l. for the Building Fund, and
10l. for the orphans.
Aug. 19. It is this day a twelvemonth since the foundation stone of the
New Orphan-House was laid, and now the building is up, and almost
entirely roofed in. Also part of the inside plastering is already done.
How can my soul sufficiently magnify the Lord for all the help which He
has been pleased to give, since this day twelvemonth!--As we are now
so far advanced, I have been increasingly entreating God, that He would
be pleased to give me the means which are yet requisite for fitting up
and furnishing the house; for even now I am completely depending upon
Him for considerable sums, to accomplish this. But while much is still
needed, I have never had, by God's grace, the least misgiving, as to
His willingness to give me all I need; on the contrary, I have been
assured that, when I actually required the money for the fittings and
the furniture, it would come. And now this day the Lord has again
proved, to me, how willing Ha is to act according to my faith; for there
was given to me this morning 887l. under the kind condition that I
should take of it 20l. for my own personal expenses, and the rest for
the Building Fund or the present need of the various objects of the
Institution, as it appeared best to me. I took therefore 600l. for the
Building Fund, and placed 267l. to the School, Bible, Tractand
Missionary Fund, with the especial intention of using the greater part
of this 267l. for helping home and foreign preachers of the Gospel, who
labour without any salary, in dependence upon the Lord for supplies,
knowing the need of many to be very great; for cases of especial
distress among them had again recently come before me. My soul does
magnify the Lord for all His goodness and faithfulness!
Oct. 11. This afternoon I received a letter, containing a check for 50l.
with these words: "1 Peter iv. 12-14. The enclosed draft is for Mr.
Müller, to be disposed of according to his own need, and the need of
the Orphans under his care. May the 37th Psalm continue to be his solace
in the fiery trial through which he is passing." I took the whole of
this sum towards fitting up and furnishing the New Orphan-House.
Oct. 16. This evening I received a fifty pound note as a thank-offering
to the Lord for numberless mercies during a long course of years. The
donor desired that Brother Craik should have 10l., myself 10l. for my
own personal expenses, and 30l. were left to me to dispose of as I
thought best, for the work of God in my hands, which sum I put to the
Building Fund, with the donor's approval.
Oct. 20. From a lady in Ireland 5s.--By sale of turf and grass 3l.
16s. 2d.
Oct. 24. By sale of articles 4s. 4 ½ d.--From a Christian gentleman
in Devonshire 20l. Day by day 1 am waiting upon God for means for
furnishing the house. The last-mentioned sum I received when returning
from the Orphan-Houses from our weekly prayer-meeting, where I had been
again seeking from God further help, together with my fellow labourers
in the work.
Oct. 25. From sisters in the Lord in Devonshire, 5l., of which they
kindly intend one half for the Building Fund, and the other half for
present use for the Orphans.
Nov. 8. The Building is now so far advanced by the help of God, that I
was able to arrange yesterday with the clerk of the works to purchase
today 32 grates for small rooms, two copper furnaces for the wash-house,
and two iron furnaces for the scullery. Thus, therefore, the expenses
for fitting up the house commence. For all this I had the money in hand,
and even some hundreds of pounds more, than the liabilities which are
already upon me; yet I want still many hundred pounds to meet all the
heavy expenses, connected with fitting up and furnishing so large a
building, levelling the ground, making a road through the ground,
pitching three large playgrounds, &c. Under these circumstances I
received this morning anonymously 50l. for the Orphan-House, with Psalm
cxvi. and the request not to notice the post-mark. As I understood the
donor to intend this donation for the Building Fund, I took it for
that.
Nov. 9. Today the Lord has helped still more abundantly. I have received
a donation of One Thousand Pounds, to be used for the Building Fund and
the present necessities of the work generally, as the various objects of
the Institution might require. Of this donation I took, therefore, 600l.
for the Building Fund, 100l. for the present necessities of the Orphans,
200l. for missionary purposes, and 100l. for the circulation of Bibles
and Tracts, and for the various Day Schools, the Sunday School, and the
Adult School of the Institution. All these manifestations of the
Lord's abundant help do not in the least surprise me. I expect help
from Him. I know that He listens to my supplications, and that, for the
sake of the Lord Jesus, He is willing to help me yet more and more, to
the confounding of Satan and to the putting to shame of unbelief.
Nov. 10. Received a bank order for 5l. from the neighbourhood of
Tavistock, which, being left to my disposal, I took for the Building
Fund.
Nov. 15. From the neighbourhood of Launceston 20l.
Dec. 22. Received 100l. This sum being left to my disposal, I took it
for the Building Fund.
Jan. 2, 1849. Received from Devonshire 10l., with these words: "A
moiety of the first fruits of interest on Bristol Dock Shares from
the Town Council of Bristol, towards the New
Orphan Building." Thus even the fact, of Bristol being made a free port,
was used by the Lord as a means to supply me with this sum.
Jan. 17. The time is now drawing near, when further steps are to be
taken to fit up and furnish the house, as more than two-thirds of the
rooms are all but ready. Under these circumstances I have prayed the
more earnestly, day by day, that the Lord would be pleased to give me
the means which are yet needed; and as my heart has been assured from
the beginning, and all through these three years and two months, since I
first began to pray about this subject, that God would in every way help
me in this work, so I have also been particularly satisfied that He
would be pleased to provide the means which may be required to meet all
the heavy expenses, which yet remain to be met. Now, today I have had
again a precious answer to my daily supplications with reference to this
work; for I received this evening 600l., concerning which it was desired
that brother Craik and myself should each take 50l. for ourselves; the
remaining 500l. was left entirely to my disposal; yet an especial
reference was made to the heavy expenses connected with fitting up and
furnishing the New Orphan-House, towards which I might, either in part,
or entirely take this sum.--After prayer I have decided on portioning
out the money thus: 300l. towards fitting up and furnishing the New
Orphan-House, 50l. for present use for the Orphans, 50l. for the support
of the Day Schools, the Sunday School, and the Adult School, 25l. for
the circulation of the Holy Scriptures, 25l. for the circulation of
Gospel Tracts, 25l. for Foreign Missions, and 25l. for the Employment
Fund.
With reference to the present of 50l. for myself, as mentioned just now,
I cannot help calling upon the Christian reader to observe how richly
the Lord supplies my own personal necessities. Since 1830 I have had no
regular salary nor any stated income whatever I then began to rely upon
the living God alone for the supply of all my temporal necessities; and
all these many years have never once been allowed to regret this step,
nor has the Lord at any time failed me. Often, indeed, I have known what
it is to be poor; but for the most part I have abounded. I sought no
payment from man for my service for God, whether in the ministry of the
Word or as director of the Scriptural Knowledge Institution; but though
I did not seek for any payment, the Lord has most abundantly recompensed
me, even as to this life. By far the most important point, however, of
this my way of living, is, that many of the disciples of the Lord Jesus
have had their hearts comforted, and have been encouraged themselves to
trust more in God, than they used to do; and it was, moreover, my
becoming more experimentally acquainted, through this way of living,
with the readiness of God to help, to succour, to relieve, and to answer
prayer, which led me in March 1834 to begin the Scriptural Knowledge
Institution, and in November 1835 to care about destitute Orphans.
Jan. 26. Anonymously from the neighbourhood of Nottingham "A gold
chain."
Jan. 30. From a professional gentleman in Bristol 50l.
Feb. 12. The New Orphan-House is now almost entirely finished. In six
weeks, with the help of God, all will be completed. On this account I
have been during the last fortnight much occupied in making the
necessary arrangements for fitting it up and furnishing it; but the
more. I have been occupied about this, the more I have seen how large a
sum the whole of the fittings and the furniture will require; and this
consideration has led me still more earnestly of late to entreat the
Lord, that He would be pleased to give me the means, which may yet be
needed for the completion of the whole. Under these circumstances a
brother in the Lord came to me this morning, and after a few minutes
conversation gave me Two Thousand Pounds, concerning which sum he kindly
gave me permission to use it for the fitting up and furnishing of the
New Orphan-House, or for any thing else needed in connexion with the
Orphans. I have placed the whole of this sum, at least for the present,
to the Building Fund. Now, dear reader, place yourself in my position.
Eleven hundred and ninety-five days it is since I began asking the Lord
for means for the building and fitting up of an Orphan-House. Day by day
have I, by His grace, since that time, continued to bring this matter
before Him. Without one moment's doubt, or misgiving, or wavering,
have I been enabled to trust in God for the means. From the beginning,
after I had once ascertained the will of God concerning this work, have
I been assured that He would bring it about; yea, as sure have I been
from the beginning that He would do so, as if I had already had all the
means in hand for it, or as if the house had been actually before me,
occupied by the children. But though to faith even three years ago the
whole work was accomplished, to sight there remained many and great
difficulties to be overcome. Even at the commencement of this day there
remained many difficulties, in the way of means, as well as in other
respects; therefore. I was on the point of giving myself again
especially to prayer, at the very moment when I was informed that the
donor of the above mentioned Two Thousand Pounds had called to see me.
Now I have the means, as far as I can see, which will enable me to meet
all the expenses; and in all probability I shall have even several
hundred pounds more than are needed. Thus the Lord shows that He can and
will not only give as much as is absolutely needed for His work, but
also that He can and will give abundantly. It is impossible to describe
the real joy I had in God, when I received this sum. I was calm, not in
the least excited, able to go on immediately with other work that came
upon me at once after I had received the donation; but inexpressible was
the delight which I had in God, who had thus given me the full answer to
my thousands of prayers, during these eleven hundred and ninety-five
days. I notice further concerning this donation: 1, The donor especially
desired me to keep his name entirely concealed; and in order that no one
might know who he is, he gave me not an order on a bank, but brought the
amount in notes. 2, He had intended to leave me this sum for the benefit
of the Orphans after his death, and for years it had been in his last
will; but he judged it more according to the will of God to give the
money during his life time.
March 31. A brother brought me a gold repeater with a gold chain, to
which two gold seals and a gold ring were attached, and told me that he
desired to give the chain, seals, and ring towards fitting up the New
Orphan-House, and wished me to get him for the gold repeater a silver
watch, as the love of Christ had weaned his heart from any desire to use
a gold repeater. He also stated, that whatever was over and above the
sale of the repeater should go for the benefit of the Orphans.
I have thus given a few out of the hundreds of donations, varying from
one farthing to 2000l., as specimens, to show how the Lord was pleased
to furnish me with the means. The total amount, which came in for the
Building Fund, was 15,784l. 18s. 10d. Of this sum 14,914l. 5s. 8d. was
received by donations in money, 60l. 19s. 11d. came in by the sale of
articles, given for the purpose. 66l. 3s. 10d. by the sale of grass and
turf from the field, on which the New Orphan-House was erected. 743l.
9s. 5d. came in for Interest; for I considered that, as a steward of
large sums, which were intrusted to me, I ought to invest the money,
till it was actually needed; and thus the sum was obtained.
After all the expenses had been met for the purchase of the land, the
conveyance of the same, the enrolment of the trust deeds in Chancery,
the building, fitting up and furnishing of the New Orphan-House, there
remained a balance of 776l. 14s. 3 ¾ d., affording a manifest proof
that the Lord can not only supply us with all we need in His service,
simply in answer to prayer, but that He can also give us even more than
we need. It will be seen how this balance was afterwards used.
Miscellaneous points respecting the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for
Home and Abroad, with reference to the period from May 26, 1848 to May
26, 1850.
1, During the whole of this period, five Day Schools, with 329 children
in them, were entirely supported by the Funds of this Institution; and
some pecuniary assistance was rendered to four other Day Schools. Also a
Sunday School, with 168 children, was entirely supported, and another
was occasionally assisted. Lastly, an Adult School, with 106 Adult
Scholars, was supported during this period. There was expended on these
various Schools 851l. 1s. 5 ½ d. during these two years.--The number
of all the children that were taught in the Day Schools through the
medium of this Institution, from March 5 1834 to May 26, 1850, amounted
to 5114; the number of those in the Sunday Schools amounted to 2200; and
the number of the persons in the Adult School to 1737. In all 9051.
2, From May 26, 1848 to May 20, 1850, were circulated 719 Bibles and 239
New Testaments. There was expended on this object, during this period,
of the funds of the Institution, 104l. 15s. 11d. There were circulated
altogether, from March 5, 1834 to May 26, 1850, Six Thousand Four
Hundred and Sixty-Five Bibles and Three Thousand Nine Hundred and
Ninety-Nine New Testaments.
3, From May 26, 1848, to May 26, 1850, were spent 2574l. 16s. 6d. of the
funds of the Institution for missionary objects, whereby 40 preachers of
the Gospel in British Guiana, in the East Indies, in Switzerland, in
France, in Germany, in Canada, in Scotland, in Ireland, and in England
were assisted.
The reader will notice how greatly this object of the Institution was
increased during the last four years previous to May 26, 1850. This
arose from the fact, that, in the early part of 1846, the need of
certain brethren who laboured in the word and doctrine came before me,
and God laid them on my heart to labour for them in prayer, in order
that I might obtain means from Him for such brethren to a greater extent
than I had done before. Ever since then the Lord has been pleased
increasingly to use me in this way. For from May 26, 1846 to May 26,
1848, there was spent for that object nearly three times as much as
during any former period of the same length; and during the period from
May 26, 1848 to May 26, 1850, I was not only allowed to do as much as
before, but to expend even 1016l. 5s. more than during the former
period, notwithstanding all the many heavy additional expenses for the
various other objects of the Institution.
It is my sweet privilege to state, that the labours of many of these
forty servants of the Lord, whom I assisted, were especially owned of
God during these two years. There took place very many conversions
through their instrumentality. This applies both to those who laboured
among idolaters and those among nominal Christians.
4, From May 26, 1848 to May 26, 1850 the sum of 184l. 9s. 4 ½ d. was
expended on the circulation of Tracts. There were circulated during this
period 130,464 Tracts. The total number which was circulated from Nov.
19, 1840 up to May 26, 1850 amounted to 294,128.
As the Missionary department was considerably enlarged during these two
years, so the Tract Department also increased to nearly three times the
extent that it was during the former periods, for which I desire to be
grateful to the Lord, and I rejoice in it as a means by which the Lord
may be pleased to do much good; indeed already we can say, we are not
without fruit.
Besides English Tracts, we circulated many in German and French, also
some in Welsh, and a few hundreds in Portuguese and Italian.
On May 26, 1848, there were 122 Orphans in the four Orphan-Houses in
Wilson Street, Bristol. There were admitted, before the New Orphan-House
was opened, 9 fresh Orphans, making 131 in all. Of these, however, one
was taken by her relatives to Australia, to which they emigrated, and
wished her to accompany them. Three were sent to their relatives till
they might be cured, on account of such diseases as made them unfit to
be with other children. Two fell asleep in Jesus as decided believers,
of whom the one had been several years in the house and converted some
months before her death. The other had been only six months under our
care, when she died. Almost immediately after her admission she was
found to be in consumption, but the Lord allowed us the joy of winning
her soul for Him. Two girls were sent out to service, both as believers.
And four boys and one girl were apprenticed. The actual number,
therefore, of Orphans who were removed from the four rented
Orphan-Houses in Wilson Street, Bristol, on June 18th, 19th, 20th, and
21st, 1849, into the New Orphan-House on Ashley Down, Bristol, was 118.
Some of these children had been received when the first and second
Orphan-Houses in Wilson Street were opened, and had therefore been with
us, at the time of our removal, more than twelve years, and they
remained several years afterwards, for we keep them as long as it
appears to us good for them, irrespective of expense. Thus we have the
joy of seeing very delicate and sickly little children grow up and
become healthy young men and women, whilst otherwise, humanly speaking,
they might never have been reared, or, at all events have been sickly
all their lives for want of a healthy place of abode, of cleanliness, or
a sufficient quantity of wholesome and nourishing food. But especially
we have in this way the great joy of seeing many of these Orphans
brought to the knowledge of the Lord Jesus, through the blessing which
God grants to our training them up in His fear from their earliest days.
It is never with me a question how much money each child costs, through
being retained so long, but only that bodily, mentally, and spiritually
they may be benefited through our care. To make them useful for time,
and to win their souls for the Lord, are our great aims concerning
them.
After the New Orphan-House had been opened, and the 118 Orphans from
Wilson Street, with their teachers and other overseers admitted into it,
I did not at once receive fresh Orphans; but, in order that all the
necessary regulations of the new establishment might be properly made,
and especially, in order that I myself might first learn what was the
best way of regulating it, we waited five weeks before the reception of
fresh Orphans. On July 24th, 1849, this commenced, and from that time up
to May 26, 1850, altogether one hundred and seventy Orphans were
received, from ten months old and upwards, so that on May 26, 1850,
there would have been 288 Orphans in the New Orphan-House, including the
118 removed into it from Wilson Street, had there been no changes. But
of this number two young children died, two Orphans were taken back by
their relatives, who were by that time able to provide for them. One boy
was sent back to his relations, partly on account of epileptic fits, and
partly on account of oft-repeated great disobedience, in order that we
might thus make an example of him for the benefit of the rest. Three
boys were sent to their relatives, as ready to be apprenticed, four boys
were apprenticed at the expense of the Institution, and provided with an
outfit accordingly; and one girl was fitted out and sent to service.
There were, therefore, on May 26, 1850, only Two Hundred and
Seventy-five Orphans in the New Orphan-House; and with the teachers,
overseers, nurses, and indoor and out-door servants, &c., the whole
number of persons connected with the establishment was Three Hundred and
Eight. The total number of Orphans, who were under our care from April
1836, up to May 26, 1850, was Four Hundred and Forty-three.
I notice further the following points in connexion with the New
Orphan-House.
1. Without any sectarian distinction whatever, and without favour or
partiality, Orphans are received. There is no interest whatever required
to get a child admitted, nor is it expected that a certain sum be paid
with the Orphans. Three things only are requisite: a, that the children
have been lawfully begotten; b, that they be bereaved of both parents by
death; and c, that they be in destitute circumstances. Respecting these
three points strict investigation is made, and it is expected that each
of them be proved by proper documents; but that having been done,
children may be admitted from any place, provided there is nothing
peculiar in the case that would make them unsuitable inmates for the
establishment.--I particularly request, that persons will kindly
refrain from applying for children, except they are bereaved of both
parents, as I can not receive them, if only bereaved of one; for this
establishment has been from the beginning, only for destitute children
who have neither father nor mother, and there can be no exceptions
made.
2. The attention of the reader is called to the name of the Orphan
Establishment. It is called the "New Orphan-House." I particularly
request that the friends of the Institution will use this name and
earnestly beg, in order to avoid mistake, that it may not be called the
"Orphan Asylum," as there is about half a mile from the spot, where the
"New Orphan-House" has been erected, another charitable establishment,
which has been for many years in existence, called the "Female Orphan
Asylum." But most of all I earnestly request, that the New Orphan-House
be not called "Mr. Muller's Orphan-House." I have now and then been
pained by observing that this appellation has been given to it. I trust
that none, who recognise the finger of God in this work, will be sinning
against Him by giving to me any measure of that honour, which so
manifestly and altogether is only due to Him. The Lord led me to this
work. He gave me faith for it. He sustained my faith for it to the end.
He provided the means. He remarkably helped me through one difficulty
after the other. Had He not upheld me in the midst of them all, I should
have been surely overwhelmed by them. Therefore, by His help, I will not
sin by taking even in the smallest degree that honour to myself, which
entirely belongs to Him; and let none be sinning, by giving the least
degree of this honour to me, or admiring me, instead of honouring and
admiring the Lord.
3. The New Orphan-House was placed in the hands of eleven trustees,
chosen by me. The deeds were enrolled in Chancery.
4. The New Orphan-House is fitted up for the accommodation of 140 Orphan
Girls above seven years of age, 80 Orphan Boys above seven years, and 80
male and female Orphans from their earliest days, till they are about
seven or eight years of age. The infants, after having passed the age of
seven or eight years, are removed into the different departments for
older boys and girls.
5. The New Orphan-House is open to visitors every Wednesday afternoon;
but the arrangements of the establishment make it needful, that it
should be shown only at that time. No exceptions can be made.--The
first party of visitors is shown through the House at half-past two
o'clock precisely, God permitting the second at three o'clock; and,
should there be need for it, the third and last party at half-past three
o'clock.--As it takes at least one hour and a half to see the whole
establishment, it is requested that visitors will be pleased to make
their arrangements accordingly, before they come, as it would be
inconvenient, should one or the other leave, before the whole party has
seen the House.--From March 1st to Nov. 1st there may be three
parties shown through the House every Wednesday afternoon; but from Nov.
1st to March 1st only two parties can be accommodated, on account of the
shortness of the days.
6. Persons who desire to make application for the admission of Orphans
are requested to write to me and address the letter to my house, No. 21,
Paul Street, Kingsdown, Bristol.
7. Without any one having been personally applied to for anything by me,
the sum of 33,868l. 11s. 1 ¼ d. was given to me for the Orphans, as the
result of prayer to God, from the commencement of the work up to May 26,
1850.--It may be also interesting to the reader to know that the
total amount, which was given as free contributions, for the other
objects, from the commencement of the work up to May 26, 1850, amounted
to 10,531l. 3s. 3 ¾ d.; and that which came in by the sale of Bibles
and Tracts, and by the payments of the children in the schools, up to
May 26, 1850, amounted to 2,707l. 9s. 3 ½ d.--Besides this also a
great variety and number of articles of clothing, furniture, provisions,
&c., were given for the use of the Orphans.
8. The total of the current expenses for the Orphans from May 26, 1848,
to May 26, 1849, was 1,559l. 6s. 9d., and the total of the current
expenses for them from May 26, 1849, to May 26, 1850, was only 2,665l.
13s. 2 ¾ d., i.e. only about Eleven Hundred Pounds more than the
previous year. To avoid misunderstanding, I would request the reader to
keep in mind that, though there were above 300 persons connected with
the New Orphan-House, on May 26, 1850, and only about 130 in the rented
Orphan Houses in Wilson Street, yet above three weeks of the second year
the children were still in Wilson Street, and five weeks afterwards we
had only those children who came from Wilson Street into the New
Orphan-House; and even when we began to receive fresh Orphans, they came
in only four, five, six, seven, or eight a-week, so that only by little
and little our expenses increased.--It is also needful, in order to
have a correct view of the expenses connected with the Orphans, to take
into account the presents in rice, bread, coals, calico, print, shoes,
&c., worth about 200l., which were given during these two years.
Matters connected with my own personal affairs, from May 26, 1848, to
May 26, 1850.