My dear brethren,
Mr. Abbott has
kindly written a very strong letter to Damascus, and we were on the point of
sending Mr. Lewis to back his wife. Mr. L. offered of his own accord to go.
But thanks to God even our father for his great
goodness to you. We rejoice in your deliverance; but we rejoice with trembling.
During our whole life, I think, we must look for tumults and persecutions. May
we be prepared for bond and death! In this country we have enemies before and
behind. But with the sword of the spirit, let us cut our way on the right hand
down the left. The sword, which the King of Kings uses, has two edges; and all
his soldiers are called, and chosen, and faithful.
Enclosed are letters for you all. THose, that
belong to me, I wish you to preserve. I will do the same by Mr. King's---Mrs.
Bird will, & suppose, tell you all the news of little Willey's teeth, beauty,
health ect.---I send love to you all. She is now reading, Pearson's long letter
to Mr. Lewis. Pearson is unique. The best girl in the Mediterranean. Brethren,
pray for us, as we do fro you.
***The blue section stresses Pliny's devotion and passion for his work and profession as a missionary. This section exemplifies the Christian Soldier and Pliny's attitude during this time of Christian Warfare.