MARGARET GODOLPHIN, what a melting joy ran through me at the thoughts of all these mercies, and how did I think myself obliged to go to the foot of my Redeemer, and acknowledge my own unworthiness of His favour ; but then what words was I to make use of ?- truly, at first of none at all ; but a devout silence did speak for me. But after that I poured out my prayers, and was in amazement that there should be such a sin as ingratitude in the world, and that any should neglect this great duty. But why do I say all this to you, my friend ? Truly, that out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh, and I am still so full of it, that I cannot forbear expressing my thoughts to you." Margaret Godolphin had now but one blessing to desire ; she ardently yearned to feel the caresses of a child, and for that holy gift she earnestly prayed. Her craving became so great that at length she took charge of a poor orphan girl, whom she instructed and cherished with the tenderness of a mother, even dressing and undressing her, and putting her to bed at night. At length, to her joy, she had hopes of the blessing she had prayed for ; and her grati- tude and delight were beyond expression. On the 3rd of September, 1678,.a boy was born. Her husband, who was at Windsor, with the Court, was immediately sent for ; and a day or two after, the child was bap- tized, in the name of Francis, in presence of both the parents, and one or two near relatives. The mother and child were in excellent health 40
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy OTcyMjk=