midnight
His descriptions are graphic , and he was of an acute and inquiring mind ; his remarks , too , are of value . I think , therefore , that we may glean from it both amusement and instruction . '' We of course all expressed a wish to hear the contents of our relative 's journal , and it was agreed that the next few evenings should be devoted to its perusal . I should observe that our father 's interest in the subject of missions to the heathen in foreign lands had lately been awakened by the visit of an old friend , one of that band of great and good men who were then endeavouring against contumely , ridicule , and every opposition which the prince of this world could raise , to send the glad tidings of salvation to the perishing millions scattered thickly on the surface of the globe , over which midnight -- the midnight of heathen darkness -- reigned . I believe that the thought of our dear father 's heart at that time was -- `` I have many sons given me by God ; surely not one of them have I a right to withhold from His service ; all , all , every one of them should be freely , joyfully given if it be His will to accept their services . '' I do not mean to say that he uttered these words , but that such was the language of his heart spoken to heaven , I am certain , from conversations and circumstances which subsequently occurred . Of all the family our brother , John , appeared to be the most deeply impressed with the remarks which had dropped from our father 's lips , and as I watched his expressive countenance , I observed the changes passing over it , and am now certain that feelings were then working within his bosom too deep for utterance , and which afterwards exerted a powerful influence on his career .