Mr. JOSEPH SWAIN, the author of the following Poem, was born at Birmingham in the year 1761. His father and mother died when he was very young, which, probably, was no small disadvantage with regard to his education.

At an early age he was put apprentice to an engraver, in the place of his nativity; but he did not finish his apprenticeship to his master at Birmingham: for, coming up to London, he served the latter part of the time to his brother, who was of the same business. Relative to the reasons and circumstances of his removal to the metropolis there is no information. They were perhaps of no material consequence, otherwise than as it is generally profitable to mark the interposition of Providence in every step we take.

After he came to London he became acquainted with a circle of gay and thoughtless youths, who were extremely fond of plays and of dancing. Being himself naturally of a lively, cheerful disposition, and possessing a poetical turn of mind, his company was much desired, and eagerly sought; especially after he had composed some songs, poems, and plays; for then he was introduced to certain persons of superior character, who encouraged him in that line of conduct.

In the midst of these pursuits, however, it occurred to his mind that he was neglecting the Holy Scriptures ; that he was in the road to destruction; and that his end would be miserable. He therefore purchased a Bible; his conviction of sin increased, and his conscience was greatly alarmed with apprehensions of eternal ruin. For thus in his Diary, April 2, 1782, he describes the state of his mind:

" I was followed for about six months or more with dreadful ideas of eternal torments, and particularly in the night season ; fearing lest by fire, or sickness, or some other means, I might be removed into the endless fire of hell. These things, however, were not effectual to cause me to leave my worldly acquaintance and sinful practices. For I still found that I loved my sins, and was not able to give them up; though I feared the punishment due to them. After a long succession of these things, together with many legal workings, and various attempts to make my own peace with God, on the day abovementioned, as I was going with my companions in sin to a place of entertainment, I felt my heart gradually melted into love of being; into love of my own being; and desired that every body might be made happy. I then attempted- to seek to God by prayer, and was assisted with such a -spirit of supplication as till then I was a stranger to. I then had many passages of Scripture brought to my remembrance, wherein I saw myself as a sinner, and Christ as a Saviour. Yea, I saw and believed that he died for me,. and that I should soon be with him in glory, at the right hand of God. And oh ! how did my raptured soul rejoice in, this great salvation at this time I So great were the peace and satisfaction I enjoyed, that I thought I could bear to be confined in the darkest dungeon for ever, provided I might always feel what I then felt of the presence of God in my soul. And so much did I fear getting back into the world again, that I was ready to pray that I might never eat, drink, or, be employed about earthly things any more for ever. But ah I the heavenly vision was not to continue always, as I soon found by experience; for in about two hours from the time I went into the place of entertainment, a kind of coldness seized my frame, and almost on a sudden the heavenly scene was snatched away, and I was left with little more than the remembrance of it; except that in my heart I felt an aching void which I was persuaded all things else could never fill.

Thus it pleased God to bring the Author of this Poem to the knowledge of himself, without the use of any external means, except the blessed Bible. It is worthy of devout observation, that under such remarkably unfavorable circumstances, the Holy Scriptures should prove effectual to his conviction and conversion should make him "wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus;" while multitudes who sit under the joyful sound year after year, perish in ignorance and unbelief I No sooner was he acquainted with the way of salvation than he began to warn his companions of their danger; told them plainly that if they would not go to heaven with him he would endeavour to go by himself. An excellent example this for all young Christians to follow! Reader, has the blessed Redeemer made you a partaker of his great salvation? Then.

"Tell to guilty sinners round,

What a dear Saviour you have found :

Point them to his redeeming blood,

And Bay, ` Behold the way to God."

He had been used to compose songs and to sing them for his own amusement; but he could relish them no longer, for objects of a nobler nature now occupied his mind. He therefore began to employ himself in composing hymns for his own use, which indeed proved very beneficial to him, as it was the occasion of bringing him under an evangelical ministry, and of his becoming acquainted with truly religious people. For when he was singing one of his hymns, a certain person who had been used to attend an evangelical ministry, took notice of it, and asked him " What hymn it was?" to, which he replied, " It is one of my own." The person then gave him an invitation to go with him to SpaFields Chapel, to which he immediately consented. Accordingly on the next Lord's day they went; but it is not easy to describe either the surprise he felt or the delight he enjoyed in hearing the same things from the pulpit which he had so recently experienced. This discourse, which was preached by Mr. Wills, was, the first evangelical sermon he ever heard. On being asked, How he approved the sermon ? he replied, " I am sure what the preacher said is true, for he has described my feelings better than I can myself." He felt such love to the people who were at the chapel, that he would have been glad to have conversed with any of them ; for he looked upon them all as excellent Christians, and supposed them all to be truly happy.

Soon after this, a friend took him to hear an Arminian preacher, whose doctrine was so different from his convictions and feelings, that he could by no means approve of it. This, though apparently a trifling circumstance, proved of great importance to him, as it was the occasion, in the course of Divine Providence, of his entering into that connection in which he became so happy and useful. For his friend conversing with him respecting the sermon, and he giving his opinion upon it with great freedom ; the former, with an air of surprise, replied, " Why you are a Calvinist !" But he, not knowing that professed Christians are distinguished by various denominations, answered; "I am no Calvinist, I am a Christian." His friend, however, finding his sentiments to bear that aspect, advised him to go and hear Mr. Rippon; saying, " I think his preaching would suit you." Accordingly ho went; and found the ministry very much blessed to his edification. After having attended -a considerable time, and formed a friendly acquaintance among the people, he was desirous of being baptized and of joining the church. In pursuance of which, he was proposed as a candidate for communion : he publicly professed his faith in Jesus Christ, was baptized on May 11, 1783, received into fellowship with that church, and "went on his way rejoicing."

He was indeed so remarkably full of love and zeal, that many of his Christian friends thought he was ripening fast for heaven. Once, after hearing a sermon preached by Mr. Berridge, he said to his wife, "My dear, I do think I shall die with joy." But on seeing her much affected he refrained, and said he would endeavour to keep such parts of his experience to himself. But though, when in such delightful frames, he said very little respecting them, yet his countenance would show that his heart was overflowing with joy.

It is worthy of observation, however, that though his own enjoyments were so great, yet he had a tender regard for such as were Weak in faith, and harassed with fears; taking every opportunity of administering consolation to persons of this cast. And, indeed, he well knew what it was to be exercised with darkness and temptation; for though he experienced so much  "joy and peace in believing," he felt also much of the plague of his own heart."

It may be justly supposed, that his being so habitually employed in devoutly meditating on the infinitely excellent Jesus, and on his great salvation, was a mean of his enjoying such a high degree of happiness. Are you desirous, Christian reader, of possessing an equal measure of spiritual peace and holy joy? Then frequently meditate on the exceeding riches , of grace, as displayed in saving the most ungodly sinners that believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.

That the reader may form some notion of the various exercises which Mr. Swain had in his own mind, in the interval between his joining the church before mentioned, and his being solemnly called to the ministerial work, I will produce a few extracts from his Diary.

" July 17, 1783. Bitterness of soul inexpressible. Much relief from private prayer. Surprising deliverance in meditation and ejaculation of thought to God; yet more blessed in prayer. This day the valley of Achor was a (door of hope to thee, 0 my soul I Remember this, and always cast thy burden on the Lord, who careth for thee.' The goodness and condescension of the heart of God are astonishing beyond measure ; and can only be felt, but not expressed by man. 0 the height, depth, length, and breadth of the love of God! Who can measure it? Such deep distress, and such amazing liberty of soul in one day, I never remember to have felt before! "Wait on the Lord, 0 my soul; wait on the Lord, and forget not all his benefits. NOTE. That it is good, it is very profitable, though it be ever so bitter, to have one's wounds probed to the quick.

" Aug. 6. Remember, 0 my soul, this day ; for it was a day much to be remembered indeed! In the morning before breakfast, heavy and unsettled in prayer. After breakfast, being enabled to wrestle in prayer for deliverance, found the Lord with me of a truth. Yea, I was enabled to sing with melody in my heart to the Lord; and to rejoice in the strength of my Redeemer, and the extensive riches of his free grace, with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Much solid pleasure and satisfaction in reflection and meditation on death and glory; and, I hope, strong desires to have my own will swallowed up entirely in the Lord's, and to be made happy only in the way of holiness.

" Evening. Heard an excellent discourse from Mr. M-, on "Neither give place to the devil;" First, as a seducer, in away of curiosity, idleness, intemperance, presumption, &e.; and as an accuser of the brethren. Felt much of the power of the word, and was strongly supported through this evening. Abundantly blessed in private; and upon the whole strengthened with strength in my soul." I would set my seal to it here, that God is faithful to them that trust in him. This has been to me, of a truth, a day of heaven upon earth.

" Aug. 11. A dull, uncomfortable day till evening. At prayer-meeting perplexed in mind for a time. Then said to my soul, ' I will wait for him though he tarry ; yea, though he slay me, yet will I trust in him.' I waited not in vain ; for it was but a little and I found that he was nigh at hand, though I knew it not. A good evening at home.

" Aug. 25. Prayer-meeting, exceedingly harassed by the enemy of souls having found his way, into my heart by the door of pride, which very much distressed me till near the conclusion; when the Lord was pleased to hear my supplication, and give me the victory in some measure, and set my mind at gracious liberty for that evening. Not unto me, but to him be the praise !

" September. Monday, and the rest of the week, had many mercies to be thankful for. Sometimes experienced the sweet manifestation of the Lord's presence, and sometimes the weakness and wickedness of my own heart. Yet I desire to be thankful. I hope grace still prevails: yea, and I trust, notwithstanding sin and a bad heart, I shall at last be " more than conqueror through him that hath loved me, and given himself for me." To him be glory for ever and ever.

" October. Friday, a good day. Felt some gratitude of heart for past and present experience of temporal and spiritual mercies. Evening. A very exceeding sweet and powerful manifestation to my soul, in private. Having this good word for my encouragement, "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you". Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.' I think if ever I tasted solid satisfaction of soul in God, it was at this time; almost as full as an earthen vessel could hold. I scarce knew how to leave the throne of grace. I was constrained to cry out, ' What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits ! "And here, I am sure, I did desire to ' take the cup of salvation,' and with redoubled ardour to tall on the name of the Lord.' . Yea, it was my desire to commit soul, body, spirit, with all that appertains thereunto, into the hands of my faithful God and Father, for time and for eternity. My assurance of the eternal enjoyment of Jesus my Redeemer in heaven, with all the redeemed, was almost I think, as clear as though I had seen the celestial gate stand open, and all the glorious spirits waiting to receive and welcome me home to my Father's house.

"November, Thursday and Friday. Much liberty and exceeding great delight in private duties, extraordinary, as well as ordinary. Many sweet hours of ' meditation and contemplation on my heavenly home. Full, sweet, and sensible assurance of my interest in Christ, in singing and ejaculatory prayer; and some, times "joy unspeakable and full of glory.' These were three days of heaven upon earth. Glory and praise to the riches of my Lord's free grace, by which alone I am what I am !

" Tuesday. For the most part, a lively, good day and, upon the whole, a good evening. But alas ! when I look back and see how full of imperfections, wandering thoughts and pride, my best duties at all times are, I have need still to cry out with fresh ardour, "Wash me thoroughly from my sins, and cleanse me from all mine iniquities,' in his precious blood; for ' I am vile, and there is no uprightness in me !’

" Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, were days of comparative desertion. Felt much stupidity of mind; and yet was very uneasy that it was so. But, as the curse causeless shall not come,' so I believe that the rod causeless doth not come; and, if I am not mistaken, spiritual pride and its attendants were, in a great measure, the cause of the Lord's hiding his face from me at this time, after enjoying so much of his presence.

" December. A sweet and lively day in singing, meditation, &c.; especially in the morning. Very much tempted, and distressed at prayer-meeting, from the pride and ungovernable emotions of my wicked heart. Something more set at liberty at home."

At another time he writes thus ; " Though I have felt much of the evil of my own heart, and sin; and have been the subject of many stupid frames of mind, this last month of May; yet have I enjoyed many precious seasons, in the use of the means of grace. Sometimes my soul has been almost overpowered with a sense of the amazing love and condescension of God my Saviour to me, the unworthiest of his creatures."

Thus it appears, that in the midst of his high enjoyments of the love of God, he humbly lay at the footstool of sovereign mercy. Deeply sensible of his own depravity and guilt, he admired the riches of divine grace, as displayed in the salvation of the most unworthy, through the complete work of Jesus Christ. He seems never to have possessed high thoughts of himself; much less to have imagined that he had attained to perfect personal holiness. On the contrary, he ever speaks of himself as a poor polluted creature ; and of his happiness, as all arising from sovereign mercy, revealed in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

In the beginning of the year 1784, he set up a religious meeting at his own house for prayer, and for the mutual communication of Christian experience. The opportunities thence arising were edifying to many, who remember with pleasure those useful and solemn seasons. He likewise belonged to a society, meeting in Castle Street, Leicester-fields; in which, one and another of its members used to speak from passages of Scripture; where his endeavours to explain the word of God were very acceptable to those who from time to time attended.

At length, the church to which he belonged, supposing him to possess talents for the public ministry, tried his gifts, approved of them, and gave him a solemn call to preach the gospel ; which call was attended with an extraordinary prayer meeting on his account, In the month of June, 1791.

He was invited to preach at Walworth on the Thursday evening following; and after having preached the Thursday evening lecture there for some time, he received an invitation to dispense the truth among them on Lord's days. Complying with those invitations, his faithful and affectionate labours were abundantly owned of God; for in a little time, he had many seals to his ministry.

In the month of December following, a church was formed, consisting of twenty-seven members; who being gathered under his care, and perceiving their number to increase rapidly, were anxious to have him ordained over them as their pastor. In pursuance of which unanimous desire, they gave him a call to the pastoral office, which he accepted; and was, on Feb. 8, 1792, solemnly ordained to the oversight of them in the Lord. In this new relation he gave himself up to the service of Christ with all his heart; and God was with him: for many believed, and were turned to the Lord.

The congregation continuing to increase, they soon found it necessary to erect galleries in their meetinghouse, in order to accommodate the people. But his public labours met with so much approbation, that not long after, it appeared necessary to enlarge the place. Nay, so increasingly acceptable was his ministry, and so crowded was the meeting-house, that it was determined to enlarge it the third time ; and a very liberal subscription was made for that purpose, a little before his last illness commenced.' *

* A considerable part of this subscription was afterwards voluntarily given to the widow and children of our deceased brother. Nay, such was thee generosity of individuals on this occasion, that some of them doubled their subscription.

Had this design been accomplished, and had Providence continued his usefulness a few years longer, he might, probably, have had one of the largest congregations in the Baptist denomination. But Infinite Wisdom saw fit to order it otherwise. That meeting-house, however, has been honoured as the spiritual birth-place of many poor sinners ; several of whom were notoriously profligate and impious.

But, previous to the formation of the church of Which Mr. Swain was afterward the pastor, various persons of respectable Christian character, well acquainted with his piety and his talents, having waited with anxiety for his being called to the ministry, and having warm expectations of seeing him useful in the church of Christ, invited him to preach a lecture on Lord’s day evenings, and on Wednesday evenings at Mr. Timothy Thomas's meeting-house, near Devonshire Square; with which invitation he complied, and his labours in those lectures were very much owned of the Lord, These lectures he used to consider as a nursery for his church at Waiworth ; and so he constantly found them to be. For many, when professing, their faith, and relating their experience before the church, declared that they received their first serious impressions under them.

Mr. Swain used constantly to preach three times on a lord's day, and two lectures in the week, besides occasional services in which he was always ready to engage, whenever an opportunity offered of doing good, to the souls of his fellow-sinners. Were all the evangelical ministers in London as ready to visit and assist,( by occasional services, the smaller congregations, they might, it is probable, be of considerable use in promoting the cause of Christ in the neighborhood of the metropolis.

Though Mr. Swain had an infirm constitution, and frequently laboured under much bodily weakness, yet he could by no means be persuaded to omit any part of his work. He was, however, under all his infirmities and indispositions, greatly favoured in various respects by a gracious Providence: for he appeared to enjoy an habitually cheerful disposition. Generally in his public services, he had liberty of expression, and a comfortable evidence of his great Master's presence, in publishing the glad tidings to perishing sinners. So zealous was he in his labours, that when he returned home, after preaching three times, he has occasionally exclaimed, " 0 this is sweet work ! If my strength would hold out, I should like to preach a fourth time.

He had, indeed, abundant encouragement in his work ; for, in the short space of four years, his church, which at first consisted of no more than twenty-seven members, amounted to upwards of two hundred. For such a number, under one minister, to be gathered into a church-state to walk together in the order and ordinances of the gospel, is rarely known in so small a space of time.

But notwithstanding he was favoured with so much of the Lord's presence in his public labours, and was so eminently useful, yet he was frequently exercised immediately previous to his entering the pulpit with great discouragement, arising from a sense of the vast importance of the work; and was often exceedingly cast down by a strong conviction of his own insufficiency nor could he ever with pleasure engage in preaching, except his own heart was previously affected with the subject. This he has at various times expressed to the ; writer of these Memoirs, when conversing on the importance of the ministerial work. He used to say, "! that he loved always to taste his subject first himself, and to get his heart warmed with it, before he delivered it to thee people." This may be justly considered as a mean, under God, of his ministerial usefulness. But, that the reader may see how deeply he was affected with a sense of the importance of his work, a few more extracts from his Diary shall be produced.

" Saturday, June 27, 1795. Repeatedly interrupted in the morning. Poorly and dull in the former part of the day. But the Lord has graciously granted me some degree of calm hope in him this evening. I feel that I need a revival of the work of grace to abide with me. O that the Lord may bee pleased to grant it! I have suffered much of late, through several roots of bitterness springing up in the church : but the Lord has graciously appeared for us, and removed my fears on that account in a measure. I have also been much exercised of late, for fear I should get. at a distance 'from God; and so be the means of half-starving the flock. "0 what solemn work is the work of the ministry.!" Fresh. discoveries of my own depravity and infirmities sometimes almost shake my hopes to the root. Yet I must say, if the work of Christ in his vineyard,', and the enjoyment of his salvation, are not my chief, concern, I know not what is."

The next day, being Lord's day, June 28, he wrote as follows: "I have several times lately had my intention thwarted, as to the subjects I have proposed to preach from, and as to order and place. This evening I was much tried, and rather alarmed in my own mind in secret; because I could not get my subject so deeply impressed upon my mind as I could desire. But it constrained me to be earnest in prayer for the Lord's: help; and he enlarged my heart, and my steps under me; so that I was obliged to leave the latter part of my subject till next Lord's day. I think I have tasted more bitter herbs lately than usual; but I have also enjoyed some sweet moments in hoping to reap in due season. I desire to begin afresh to learn three things,. Self-denial, Patience in ministerial labours, and Sweetness of temper. Lord, teach me all these !

" Saturday, July 18, 1795. After much conflict as usual, I begin to entertain some sweet hope of a good day to-morrow. Lord, grant it for Christ's sake !

" Wednesday, 22. Surely I may say, ' I cried to the Lord, and he heard me.' I enjoyed, through three public exercises last Lord's day, so encouraging a consciousness of the Divine Presence in my own soul, and such a lively hope of the divine blessing attending the word to others, as far exceeded what I have felt for some time. Lord,, suffer me not to be so unbelieving another time; but let my 'bow abide in strength, and the arms of my hands be made strong by the hands of the mighty God of Jacob,' for Christ's sake ! Amen.

Thus did this faithful servant of the Lord " study to approve himself accepted unto God; a workman that needed not to be ashamed : rightly dividing the word of truth." Nor was he contented with barely delivering sound doctrinal truths ; but he was anxiously desirous of seeing the blessed effects of those truths, in thee conversion of sinners, and in the establishment of saints. He was not contented with having done his duty in the capacity of a public preacher; but with diligence and delight he went from house to house, instructing and encouraging his people; performing among them the duty of a faithful pastor, for which branch of his work he was endued with a singular talent. It has been both instructive and encouraging to the compiler of these Memoirs, when with him in visiting some of his people, to hear how he "exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of them, as a father doth his children, that they would walk worthy of God, who had called them to his kingdom and glory." May the Lord raise up and send forth many more such pastors to supply the destitute churches!

With regard to his abilities as an author, let his publications testify. His Walerorth Hymns, and especially this Poem, prove that he possessed a poetical talent; and which is unspeakably better, they indicate that his heart and strength were engaged in the service of his blessed Redeemer. His Experimental Essays, in Prose and Verse, are worthy of a careful perusal. "The last piece he published was, A Pocket Companion " for the Church under his care. It might be well for the members of that church, were each of them to peruse it with seriousness and frequency.

We should not do justice to the subject of these Memoirs, were we to omit informing the reader, that the profits, whether greater or less, arising from the sale of a new and improved Edition of the following Poem, were generously intended by Mr. Swain for the benefit of the two Missionary Societies : but Providence .having cut short his life, the valuable work was republished for the benefit of his widow and his four small children.

Previous to his last illness, which was comparatively short, but very affecting, (being for a considerable part of the time under the power of a strong delirium,) his health had been for a course of time gradually declining. But with reference to that afflictive and solemn scene, which terminated in the removal of this excellent and useful man; a few paragraphs from his Funeral Sermon, by Mr. Upton, shall be laid before the reader.

" As to the first part of Mr. Swain's affliction, (says Mr. Upton,) both he and his friends were equally on apprehensive of his life being in danger. The frame of his mind seemed serene and comfortable. He appeared much concerned about his church, with regard to the first Lord's day of his confinement, it being the returning season for breaking of bread; and still more on account of those persons who were to have been received into communion on that day.

" Two of Dr. Watts's Sermons were read to him, and he expressed great pleasure in hearing them. He said " they had been the means of his enjoying some nearness to God in prayer.' In conversation with Christian friends he frequently said, 'he hoped it was a sanctified affliction.'

" On Thursday (a week before his death,) he said, he had been lamenting that he could not read the word of God, because of his great weakness: but he recollected that he could read, as it were, without the book; and repeated the fourteenth chapter of John, and the fifty-fifth chapter of Isaiah, with some other passages of the sacred Scriptures. He then said, ' Now I can give advice to afflicted persons when I visit them, to do the same.' He added, 'If persons were to accustom themselves to commit things to memory it would be of great advantage, particularly to those who complain that their recollection is bad.'

" He was grieved to hear that a member, on the Lord's day before, had absented himself, in consequence of his not being able to preach ; sent his love to the church by one of the deacons; and begged that if they wished not to grieve him, but to testify their love to him in his affliction, they would keep close to each other in the ways of God.

" This evening he had a violent fit, which left him apparently senseless for some hours. But when he came to himself he conversed in a very peculiar manner, as though had been taking a retrospective view of his whole life. Upon Mrs. Swain entering the room, he said, ' O my dear, I have been offering some petitions to God for you, which I am sure will be answered, I am sure they will be answered.'

" On the Saturday night following, for about three hours, he was favoured with the full use of his reason, and conversed as a dying man. He said to Mrs. Swain, ' 0 my dear, I perceive I have been under a mistake; I thought I was getting better, but I now feel I am very bad. I have been seeking the Lord about my case, and can get no other answer than this, "Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live.' On seeing her much affected, he said, ' O my dear, don't grieve; the Lord can make you a happy widow. You were happy in the Lord before you knew me, and he can make you happy when I am gone.' He reminded her also of a Christian friend who had been greatly supported and comforted under the loss of a valuable husband. He then exclaimed, ' O my dear Redeemer! Am I coming to thee so soon? Is my work done? It is just fourteen years since I first knew thee, Lord! If it were thy will, I should rejoice to labour a little longer with the dear people: yet not my will, but thine be done.'

" He then took his wife by the hand, and prayed very fervently for her and for the dear children ; also for his church at Walworth, and on behalf of those who attended his Lecture near Devonshire Square. After which he conversed about temporal concerns; and then, returning to the solemn subject of death, he said, ' I am not afraid to die; I have not the shadow of a doubt.; I know that I shall receive my crown. Yet I should be glad to be engaged in my Lord's work a little longer, if it were his will.' He then exhorted those around him to aim: living near to God, and to wrestle with him in prayer for the fulfillment of his gracious promises.

" On the Lord's day morning he was much in prayer for the church, and proceeded as regularly as though he had been in public. The minister who was to supply his place at Walworth that morning called to see him, and engaged in prayer with him. But he could not attend long: the delirium came on so violently, that he was not able to converse many minutes together, but often seemed to be engaged in ejaculatory prayer."

What a mercy it was that before the fatal disease commenced he "knew in whom he had believed;" and that he had committed his immortal all into the hand of Jesus Christ ! Happy for the real Christian, that neither bodily disease, nor mental derange men'. that no enemy, nor any affliction is able to separate him from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord!

After being greatly afflicted for twelve or fourteen days, he was dismissed from all his cares and labours from all temporal sufferings and sorrows; and we doubt not, was received into the bosom of eternal bliss, on April 14, 1796, and in the thirty-sixth year of his age. Then, we have a pleasing persuasion, he entered into the fullness of that felicity, which in so "many of his Wahvorth Hymns he has well described, and especially in Hymn the hundred and sixth, which -reads as follows:-.

On Friday, April 22, his remains were deposited in Bunhill-fields burying-ground; and his funeral was attended by some thousands of people, multitudes of whom were deeply affected to think that they should see his face no more. Abraham Booth delivered the Address at the interment ; and on the following Lord's .; day two Funeral Sermons were preached for him. The former, in the afternoon, on the " Mysterious Conduct of Divine Providence," from John xiii. 7, by Dr. Rippon : the latter, in the evening, on the " Sorrowful Separation of the Faithful Pastor from his Affectionate Flock," from Acts xx. 30, 87, 38, by James Upton : and both of them to very crowded congregations.

Though our dear deceased friend was cut off in the midst of his days, and in the midst of his usefulness, yet it will be easy to perceive, by the following extract from his Diary, and by a few lines of poetry which he composed within the last twelve months of his life, that he was often thinking of his departure, and longing to be with Jesus. Several members of his own church being dangerously ill, and various useful Ministers of the gospel being lately deceased, he wrote as follows :

" 1795. This has been a week of solemn work in visiting the dying. Three brethren are probably near eternity. Lord, enable me to profit myself and others by their experience ; and uphold them in sickness and death ! Mr. Romaine, and Mr. Clark of Exeter, are also lately fallen asleep. All these voices call to me, saying, ' Be thou also ready !' and yet what a cleaving to earth and earthly things do I find still!

" October 31. Mr. Bently, of Camberwell, is also fallen asleep in Jesus. I hear that he died very happy. Lord, grant that I may live the life and die the death of the righteous !' A little while ago Dr. Stennett died; and since their decease, the aged Mr. Beddome departed, besides many other gospel Ministers this last summer.

" Heaven draws my spirit towards its blissful shore,

And bids my heart to things eternal soar ;

Earth holds my senses by a thousand strings,

And, when my thoughts would mount, contracts their wings.

From what strange cause springs this peculiar strife ?

I long to die, yet still am fond of life:

I bless the Lord, who lends me vital breath ;

Yet leap for joy at thought of certain death !

When I look round, how many objects dear

Fix on my eye, and gain upon my ear;

Yea, claim their various stations in my heart,

Nor quit their claim till flesh and spirit part.

At home, what tender cares and sweets combine,

By means of objects this fond heart calls mine!

Abroad, how pleasant is the frequent sight

Of social bliss among the sons of light;

Where many hearts with mutual kindness glow,

Kindled by love divine-'tie heaven below.

Yet, though 'tis heaven's sweet dawn, it helps to bind

To present things the captivated mind;

And he that's one in heart with Zion here,

In view of heaven may drop a parting tear.

But when the Lord himself, with gracious power,

Displays his glories in some favour'd hour;

When love appears supreme upon the throne,

And points the soul to its immortal crown,

Loose fly the strings which held his heart to earth,

Up spring the passions of celestial birth ;

And one bright glance of Jesus makes him say,

`I've none on earth; in heaven I've none but thee!"

Hence it appears that our deceased brother, like the apostle of old, was "in a strait between two; having a desire to depart and to be with Christ, which is far better;" yet willing to abide in the flesh for the benefit of his family and of his church.

Mr. Swain, as a husband and a father, was tenderly affectionate; as a master, while engaged in secular business, esteemed and loved by those that were employed under him; as a friend, sincere in his professions of attachment. With the afflicted he greatly sympathized ; and to the distressed poor he manifested a liberal turn of heart. As a Christian, he rejoiced in the doctrines of sovereign grace, and revered the authority of divine precepts. Affable without loquacity, and cheerful without levity, he was habitually disposed for serious and edifying conversation. Zealous for domestic religion, he was regular, without being formal in the practice of it. As a pastor, he was laborious and watchful, faithful and affectionate. In the execution of his pastoral office, he discovered benevolence, gentleness, and meekness, yet without timidity; for, as occasion required, he was firm and steady to his principles. He was a strenuous advocate for what he considered as the revealed will of his Lord, whether it respected doctrines or precepts, positive institutions, or the primitive order of Christian 'churches. But while steady to his own convictions, he cordially esteemed all those of every denomination whom he considered as loving our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. A constant sense of his own imperfections rendered him humble, and his chief pleasure was in doing good.

Still farther to confirm and illustrate various particulars in the preceding Memoirs, I shall conclude by subjoining a Copy of Verses which Mr. Swain composed'. but a few months before his decease, and to which be, gave the following title :

A Letter addressed to the Rev. Mr. P-, Birminghang; containing an Account of some Remarkable' Circumstances which once attended the Conversion of a Sinner.

DEAR brother in Christ, though I see not your face,

Your name is engrav'd on my heart;

And oft with delight I contemplate the place

Where soon we shall meet, not to part.

But Oh ! to that grace, which has sav'd us from hell,

What debtors we have been and are !

We must be content, if the whole we would tell,

To wait till we both arrive there.

Yet, though I am conscious the heights of God's love,

And depths of his wisdom and grace,

Will never be known till we sing them above,

I cannot but aim at his praise.

Though high is the theme, and the ransom'd in heav'n

To reach it exert all their skill ;

For one to be silent whose sins are forgiven

Is surely more difficult still.

Look back then, my soul, and by mercy eonstrain'd,

Declare what thy Saviour hath done ;
When first over Satan and sin he obtaln'd

That conquest which proved thee his own.

A slave to the passions which fetter mankind,

And mark them as servants of sin;

And yet to self-righteousness strongly inclin'd,

My heart was both proud and unclean.

To gratify self, and gain human applause,

I studied and strove night and day;

And heav'n-bestow'd talents in pleasure's vain cause

Exerted my pow'rs to display.

But thoughts of eternity oft would intrude,

And conscience on judgment would muse;

' How must I of God with abhorrence be view'd,

While thus all his gifts I abuse !"

Till secret alarms, in the season of sleep,

Disturb'd and prevented my rest

By pointing my fears to the bottomless deep,

My envy, to seats of the blest. '

'Twas then, with reluctance, I purchas'd the Book

Where God's righteous willl is reveal'd ;

Intending but seldom within it to look,

My eyes to its worth being seal'd.

I wanted to flee from the danger of hell,

Yet sinful enjoyments retain;

And foolishly thought if I sometimes did well,

I safely might swerve now and then.

But while I was seeking on his holy day

(Behold the long-suffering of God!)

Unhallowed delight, in perusing a play,

The Bible my-purpose withstood:

' God's word thus neglected, will one day appear

A witness against thee,' it said ;

'Twas whisper'd to conscience, and fill'dd me with fear,

When, trembling, I open'd and read

'Cut off that right hand, and pluck out that right eye,

And sell not thy soul for thy sin; .

'Tis better, though maim'd,, from destruction to fly,

Than whole, in thy lusts to fall in.'

This pierc'd through my soul like a two-edged sword,

And laid my heart open to view;

I felt both the truth and the pow'r of the word;

My sins were intended, I knew.

Thenceforward a struggle commeuc'd in my mind

'Twixt present and future concerns;

But still I in secret to present inclined,

While thus I reflected by turns;

' Suppose all through life, I in luxury roll,

And swim in delights to the grave;

And lose for my pleasures the life of my soul,

What recompense then shall I have?

Yet what is my life worth to me, if I part

With all my companions in mirth?'

Friends, prospects, amusements, all clung round my heart,

And seem'd to demand it for earth.

Too oft from reflection I hasted away,

To lose my sad thoughts in a crowd;

Or drown them in mirth, at a ball or a play;

But conscience, e'en there, would intrude.

I trembled to think of those all-seeing eyes

That watched me through all my career,

And thought on the day when the dead must arise

With horror, akin to despair.

That Word, which bold infidels dare to dispute,

Which God did in mercy inspire ;

I found, like an axe which is laid to the root,

To cut down a tree for the fire.

The precepts demanding obedience I read,

O'erwhelmed with confusion and shame;

The threat'nings, like thunder, roll'd over my head,

And darted like lightnings their flame.

But neither the danger of hell I was in,

Nor dread of displeasure divine,

Could turn from the love or the practice of sin

A heart so rebellious as mine.

Too often I vow'd, if the Lord would forgive

My many iniquities past,

How holy and jast I in future would live,

And merit his favour at last.

But vows, when my passions recover'd their fire,

Like Samson's green withs from his hands,

Gave place to the strength of unholy desire,

And proved ineffectual bands.

Till Infinite Mercy from Calvary flew,

And whisper'd, in accents divine,

The Power that first made thee must form thee anew

Or glory can never be thine.

" Thy thoughts are polluted, thy heart is deprav'd,

Thy soul is all leprous with sin ;

Thy passions and pow'rs are by Satan enslav'd,

Thy conscience itself is unclean.

`No sinner, except he is born from above,

Can ever in heaven reside ;

Or meet the pure eyes of his Maker with love,

Or in his bright presence abide.'

Scarce had I objected, `How can this thing be ?

When Mercy replied, with a smile,

The thing that's impossible, mortal, with thee,

Jehovah can work when he will.'

That moment a spark of celestial desire

Was kindled and flam'd in my breast;

I wrestled with God, and began to aspire

To hope I should enter his rest.

Amaz'd at myself that I dare be so bold

To plead for salvation with God;

I wondered still more on the cross to behold

My pardon and peace seal'd with blood.

Myself and my Saviour I saw with new eyes;

My Bible I read by new light ;

New passions within me I felt with surprise,

And God was my only delight.

His glorious perfections with pleasure I saw,

Where justice and mercy combined;

His grace in the gospel, his truth in the law,

Like sun-beams shone forth on the mind.

With holy complaisance and rapture divine

I felt his omnipotent love ;

As God all-sufficient I knew he was mine,

My portion below and above.

What pleasures I tasted in that sacred hour,

I never on earth can express;

When Christ was reveal'd to my conscience wit pow'

And form'd inn my heart by his grace.

The love and the guilt of transgression at once

Expir'd, when my Surety was seen;
The service of sin I resolv'd to renounce,

The service of God to begin.

For wisdom and strength I look'd up to my Lord,

To help me to walk in his light;

And he, by his Spirit explaining his word,

Directed my footsteps aright.

No sweet silver trumpet saluted my ears

With tidings of mercy from heaven ;

No voice of persuasion diasolv'd me in tears,

Or told me how sins were forgiven

But all was as silent as springing of flowers,

Or light while it shines from above

When Mercy descended like soft summer showers,

And melted my heart into love.

Almighty the voice was, yet perfectly still,

Which first bade me live and be whole;

New-moulding my passions, persuading my will,

Diffusing new light through my soul.

So great was the change I experiene'd within,

I scarce could believe it was true

Such love to my God, and such hatred to sin

My soul till that hour never knew.

I thought it was glory commencing below,

Yea, heav'n in perfection on earth ;

When first in my bosom I felt the pure glow

Of life from a heavenly birth.

As love to the heart, and as light to the eyes,

So pleasant to me was the word,

Which fill'd me with calm and delightful surprise,

By pointing my thoughts to the Lord.

The Spirit of Jesus reveal'd him to me,

The gift of unchangeable love;

And taught me, in Him as my Surety, to see

My title to mansions above.

Now near fourteen years I have Iiv'd on his grace,

And still to his word find him true;

And oft, as I gain a fresh glimpse of his face,

My strenght in his ways I renew.

His frown more than death or destruction I dread;

His smile from all care sets me free ;

His mercy full-orb'd, when it shines on my bead,

Is glory's bright morning to me.

And soon, when my work in his vineyard is done,

I hope to behold him above;

To sit with my Lord on his glorious high throne,

And taste all the fruits of his love.

To Him that is holy, and righteous, and true,

The man who is equal with God !

To Him alll the glory for ever is due,

Which flows from "Redemption by blood."

0 help me, dear brother, to shout forth his praise,

And sound his salvation aloud ;

For nothing but sovereign, omnipotent grace,

Could bring such a rebel to God