23. Reached Fort Wayne at 7 A. M. Staid over till 12:30 P. M. Then came on with a light heart. Arrived at Upper Sandusky at 4:50 P. M. Rode out to Brother Keller's with Brother Hoffman. And now the long contemplated time of meeting my beloved Sarah has come at last. Thank the kind Lord for his care and protection over us through these eleven long months that we have been so far, far apart.
This eve went to see Father Shriner, who is nearing the other shore to dwell with the spirits made perfect. Had a season of prayer. Returned with Brother Keller.
25. Father Shriner died at 4 A. M. yesterday, and at 11 A. M. today Brother Small preached the funeral, followed by Brother Updike and me. It was a very large funeral. Father S. was an upright and godly man, firmly devoted to truth and right. Well do I remember words that fell from his lips some four years ago when, during his report, he remarked: "Brethren, I have always tried to maintain a ministerial character." These words, backed up by his exemplary life, had a great meaning and made a deep impression on my mind. They inspired me with new determination to live out the same character by the grace of God.
26. Spent the day pleasantly at Brother Keller's. Oh, how happy I am to have the blessed company of my dearly beloved Sadie! Surely I should be a happy and grateful man, having such a rich treasure.
28. Took train for Crestline, where I am now writing these lines, waiting for the train to Shelby. But here it comes! Twelve o'clock, aboard the train. Oh, how convenient to the great cause of God is the railroad! Reached Daniel Baker's, at Shelby, at 1 P. M. We were happy to meet again.
Nearly one year has passed since my last visit here in company with Bro. J. L. Jenner, who is now in eternity. Poor fellow, he became insane last April and on the 25th cut his throat and abdomen, from the effects of which he died some days later. From the best information I could get his mind was overcome by an unwillingness to preach the whole gospel of God, through a desire to gain the applause of man. As ministers of God we should take warning and fill our high calling in the fear of God.
29. Came to W. Auburn, where I met many of the dear brethren beloved as children. Preached from Psa. 144:15. How happy and grateful I am to meet with these beloved people!
30. This morn I went up into my old room at Bro. Peter Wright's and looked over all my mementos of my dear departed companion and sonny.
31. Sabbath. Had a good speaking-meeting. Preached on the signs of the coming of Christ. The house was crowded. Eve, Brother Awkerman preached on the ordinances, after which we had a happy time in obeying them. Human language can not express my joy.