intercourse was characterized by marked coldness and reserve,) but she did not hesitate to talk to Clayton, in the most severe manner, of their united unkindness to her. This, however, did not seem to irritate nor move him in the least; yet when her bleeding heart would vent itself in sobs and tears, his anger was excited, and harsh and unkind words spoken, until it seemed she could endure no more. O, had she not suffered enough, in consequence of her backslidings, to be weary of them, and return fully to GOD? She was indeed proving by bitter experience, that the way of the transgressor is hard. That blessed SPIRIT, which, during all these years, had at times striven with her, continued to do so, and now with increased frequency and power. She, sometimes in Clayton's presence, gave utterance to its convictions, by exclaiming, 0, how wicked I am! One day, hearing her say this, he expressed a fear, that the idea of her wickedness would become a mania with her. O, foolish, depraved and ignorant man, to attribute the work of the Holy Ghost to a disordered mind! We are reminded of the ancient Jews, who accused our Saviour of casting out devils through the prince of devils. Yielding, measurably, to these precious influences, Mary now betook herself to reading her Bible, and secret prayer, earnestly desiring the forgiveness of her sius, and a complete restoration to God's favor, yet little realizing the firey ordeal through which she must pass, in order to reach that blessed state. We close this chapter with The first bears date, August the following letters. MY OWN DEAR Daughter, satisfaction and comAlthough it pained Thou canst hardly realize the fort thy dear letter afforded me. me to hear of thy sadness, it gave me a feeling of quietness, and a confirmed assurance, as I told thee, that my dear child would not be greatly moved: and I felt, I trust, a degree of thankfulness, to our great and good Father in Heaven, for His condescending kindness to us, in thus calming our minds under such trying circumstances. I hardly know what to say respecting Clayton : thou sayest he has his weak points; if one of his weaknesses is to love another, while professing to love thee or to let thee remain in ignorance about it, I trust and hope from my heart, my dear M. will be enabled, by the strong power of GOD, to turn away from, and never more put confidence in one, who can prove himself so much beneath the notice, not to say the love of a true and confiding heart. I say not this to excite any unkind feelings towards him; but as true love is blind, I feel that thou needest some one who has eyes to lead thee by the hand. It gives me much rest to hear of thy resolution, not to travel with him unmarried and O, dear daughter, beware of his protestations of innocence or love, for how much better to part now than to be united and then to find thy love unrequited that I believe would be death to my poor dear child; but I have a great assurance that thou wilt in time, rise above these things, and enjoy life yet. Yes, I repeat it, enjoy life yet. I desire to be truly thankful, that I believe thou hast been kept in innocence, since thy first acquaintance with him how much comfort this affords me; I feel, my poor, dear one, to say to thee, that although there appears no way for thee to gain a living, the great and blessed Being, who has fed us all our lives. long, is able to open a way when there is none; and I feel free to say that I believe this way will be opened. Let us trust in Him with all our hearts, and obey Him in all things. Remember, dear child, our hearts and home, are open to receive thee, whenever thou seest fit to come. Please excuse mother from writing, as it is hard, as thou knowest, for her to write, but she sends much love, I assure thee, instead. Do write often and without reserve, for I feel deeply interested for thee. With true affection THY FATHER. We will add one more in this connection, trusting it may be profitable and interesting to the reader. MY OWN DEAR MARY: March 31st, 1861. I want to see thee very much, but as that cannot be, just now, I will try and write a few lines. And what shall I say to my dear child? I call thee child; for the same fatherly feeling remains in my breast now that dwelt there when thou wast a little child, and lay in my arms,-dear to my heart. I look back to that time, and my heart grows soft; and feelings of tenderness not to be described take possession of my mind. Thy dear mother, and the dear and cherished remembrance of those other parts of my own soul, who have gone home, seem to call my mind to look forward to that important period when we shall all meet, I humbly hope and pray, to part no more, for ever. O my dear daughter, is not this thought cheering, while toiling on in this changing and trying state ? — May it stimulate us to do our duty, and be obedient to our Heavenly Father's commands. My mind is very often turned towards thee, and my daily intercessions are for thee, that thou may'st be found walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord, blameless. O my child, let me entreat thee to cherish the precious influences of the Blessed Spirit. Lift up thy heart, constantly, for heavenly help. Remember, He notices the weakest aspirations for aid, and will give power to His poor children, even over the powers of darkness, if in humbleness of mind and spirit, they follow Him, and sincerely desire to obey Him. I hope the reading of the Scriptures, and serious meditation, and constant prayer, are not neglected. I know that difficulties are in the way, but a willing mind is ac cepted. Suffer this word of exhortation, dear M., and feel not that father is too severe. We are favored with good health, with the exception of a bad cold, (from which mother is recovering) and are getting along, as usual, very comfortably. Thy letter was received with much satisfaction, I was glad to hear of the success which attended your exhibition; was also peculiarly gratified to hear of thy feeling of hope and confidence in a guardian power that takes care of all. Trust my dear, trust in this Almighty Power and if every thing does not work seemingly in your favor, all things shall work for thy good. Be assured of this, and do not despond. Spring is approaching, and I hope ere long to see my dear, dear daughter. We should be very glad of a visit from thee. Shall we have it? Please write soon and let us know your future plans &c. With kind feelings I remain THY AFFECTIONATE FATHER. |