Meditation CXXI.

THE TRAVELER AT HOME.

September 7, 1776.

These many years have I dwelt in my native country, and in my own house. Through the perils of war, the dangers of the sea, extremity of cold in one part, and scorching heat in another, have my life and health been preserved, to my own surprise; while numbers saw their native land no more. But, as a traveler, what have I seen?

Just sin and vanity in every land, grief and pain in every bosom, the fruits of the fall, and the havoc of the curse in all nations. I dwell in my own house, and bless the bounty of Providence, which, from floating on a restless ocean, has given me a settled habitation.

But I look forward, and see that I have a long, a difficult, a solemn journey before me—not from one kingdom to another—but from one world to another. Hence (not forgetful of all his mercies that accompanied me in all my wanderings) to lay up my treasure in the better country, to prepare for my approaching eternal change, to improve for my future society, and to ripen for heaven and glory—shall employ the remainder of my life, that I may finish my course with joy. Amen.

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