Sadly altered was the poor, worn-out body, pillowed in an easy chair, but his spirit rejoicing in
his much-loved Lord. He said, "Two months ago, when I felt this sickness was unto death, I asked
Him to reveal Himself to me in increased loveliness and nearness. He did; He filled me with
Himself_I know the blood has done its blessed, blessed work for my soul; it is His love, His
beauty, His perfection, that fills my heart and vision."

He then spoke of feeling a little better that day. "But ah! that is no pleasure to me." Then, clasping
his dear, thin hands together, he said, while tears flowed down his face, "My precious Lord Jesus,
Thou knowest how fully I can say with Paul, To depart and be with Thee is far better! Oh, how
far better! I do long for it! They come and talk to me of a crown of glory_I bid them cease; of
the glory of heaven_I bid them stop. I am not wanting crowns_I have HIMSELF! HIMSELF!
I am going to be with HIMSELF! Ah! with the Man of Sychar (John 4); with Him who stayed to
call Zacchaeus; with the Man of the eighth of John; with the Man who hung upon the cross; with
the Man who died! Oh to be with Him before the glories, the crowns, or the kingdom appear! It
is wonderful! wonderful! with the Man of Sychar alone; with the Man of the gate of the city of
Nain (Luke 7); and I am going to be with Him for ever _to exchange this sad, sad scene, which
cast Him out, for His presence!"