It only fulfils the promise,
"Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth." O that the gentle voice of
Jesus might be heard, whispering, "Daughter, I say unto thee,
arise!" Who knows but, if our faith were as Christ would have it, he
would call this sister back to life, though now so near to death!
But your Father knows what is for your good, and you know that here
he often gives anguish to those who love him, that they may be
exceedingly joyful with him hereafter. The Lord grant that these
afflictions do not harden our hearts.
I have conversed and prayed with all the younger girls, save two.
Eleven say that they are resolved to follow Christ; but I fear lest
the vineyards and the cotton fields do not testify hereafter that
they have walked with God. It is very pleasant to me to sit down by
them and ask them of their state.
Yesterday (Sabbath) was a delightful day, but it seemed very short.
The Lord help us in our weakness, and cause the dark clouds to rise
from all your friends. The God of consolation heal the wounded
spirit of your poor sister, Mrs. Stoddard. I have never seen the
death of the righteous--only by hearing have I heard of it.
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