In January, 1739 -- 40, the measles spread much in college, and I, having taken the distemper, went home to Haddam. But, some days before I was taken sick, I seemed to be greatly deserted, and my soul mourned the absence of the comforter exceedingly; it seemed to me, all comfort was forever gone; I prayed and cried to God for help, yet found no present comfort or relief. But through divine goodness, a night or two before I was taken ill, while I was walking alone in a very retired place, and engaged in meditation and prayer, I enjoyed a sweet refreshing visit, as I trust, from above, so that my soul was raised far above the fears of death; indeed I rather longed for death than feared it. O how much more refreshing this one's season was than all the pleasures and delights that Earth can afford! After a day or two I was taken with the measles, and was very ill indeed, so that I almost despaired of life; but had no distressing fears of death at all. However, through divine goodness I soon recovered. Yet, by reason of hard and close studies, and being much exposed on account of my freshman -- ship, I had but little time for spiritual duties; my soul often mourned for want of more time and opportunity to be alone with God. In the spring and summer following, I had better advantages for retirement, and enjoyed much comfort in religion; though indeed my ambition in my studies greatly wronged the activity and vigour of my spiritual life. Yet this was usually the case with me, in the multitude of my thoughts within me, God's comforts principally delighted my soul; these were my greatest consolations day by day.
