Communication by letter as well as by conversation with the
pious poor, has often been the instrument of animating and reviving my
own heart in the midst of duty, and of giving me the most profitable
information for the general conduct of the ministerial office.
As soon as the letter was read, I inquired who was the bearer of it.
"He is waiting at the outside of the gate, sir," was the reply.
I went out to speak to him, and saw a venerable old man, whose long hoary
hair and deeply-wrinkled countenance commanded more than common respect.
He was resting his arm upon the gate, and tears were streaming down his
cheeks. On my approach he made a low bow, and said:
"Sir, I have brought you a letter from my daughter; but I fear you will
think us very bold in asking you to take so much trouble."
"By no means," I replied; "I shall be truly glad to oblige you and any of
your family in this matter, provided it be quite agreeable to the
minister of your parish."
"Sir, he told me yesterday that he should be very glad if I could procure
some gentleman to come and bury my poor child for him, as he lives five
miles off, and has particular business on that day. So, when I told my
daughter, she asked me to come to you, sir, and bring that letter, which
would explain the matter.
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