Conversion of James Haldane
When James Haldane was captain of one of Britain's warships he was engaged in a terrible battle which saw his entire deck crew slaughtered by an enemy broadside.
He had replacements piped on deck from below, but when they saw the awful carnage, they were seized with desperation and almost turned on the spot. Captain Haldane sprang into their midst, shouting out oaths and curses, and saying that he wished they might all sink to hell. An old believing sailor stepped forward, and touching his cap, said, "Captain, I believe God answers prayer; and if God had answered your prayer just now, what would have become of us?" Having spoken this the old marine retired to his post, but after the battle, James Haldane retired to his cabin, and there began the process of conviction and conversion that came to his heart.
He began to "evangelise" his brother Robert, but the latter was enraged by his brother's zeal and efforts and told him never to enter his house again until he had changed his views. "Very well, Robert," he said, "but I have one comfort in the case, and that is, you cannot prevent me from praying for you;" and holding out his hand, he took his leave of him.
Robert Haldane couldn't rid his heart and mind of the fact that his brother was constantly praying on his behalf, and as the work of conviction and conversion had first taken place with James, so it now began to take place and was completed in the case of Robert, as well.
Note - James Haldane, mentioned here is the same James Haldane as mentioned in the Pastor's Letter in this edition. Should you wish to know more about the Haldane brothers, you will find two audio lectures in the pages of the magazine online.
http://www.wicketgate.co.uk/lectures/lecture_haldanes.html
http://www.wicketgate.co.uk/lectures/lecture_haldane_tour_1797.html