Page:The Works of Samuel Johnson ... A journey to the Hebrides. The vision of Theodore, the hermit of Teneriffe. The fountains. Prayers and meditations. Sermons.v. 10-11. Parliamentary debates.pdf/308

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to his relations the kindness which I have received from him; protect them in this world from temptations and calamities, and grant them happiness in the world to come for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.


September 2, 1781.


When Thrale's health was broken, for many months, I think, before his death, which happened April 4, I constantly mentioned him in my prayer: and after his death, have made particular supplication for his surviving family to this day.


September 18.


This is my seventy-third birthday, an awful day. I said a preparatory prayer last night, and waking early, made use, in the dark, as I sat up in bed, of the prayer [beginning of this year.] I rose, breakfasted, and gave thanks at church for my creation, preservation, and redemption. As I came home, I thought I had never begun any period of life so placidly. I read the Second Epistle to the Thessalonians, and looked into Hammond's notes. I have always been accustomed to let this day pass unnoticed, but it came this time into my mind that some little festivity was not improper. I had a dinner, and invited Allen and Levet.

What has passed in my thoughts on this anniversary, is in stitched book K.[1]

My purposes are the same as on the first day of this year, to which I add hope of

More frequent attendance on public worship.

Participation of the Sacrament at least three times a year.


September 18, Vesp. 10° 40´, circ.

Almighty and most merciful Father, who hast added another year to my life, and yet permittest me to call upon Thee, grant that the remaining days which Thou shalt

  1. This book is not in the Editor's possession.