It is an extremely quiet story for these
sensational days, when heaven and earth seem to be racked for a
thrill; but as I get old I do love to think of those quiet, simple
times when there was not a poor person in the parish, and the changing
glories of the year were the only spectacle. We, that is the professor
and myself, have been reading with much interest Motley's Memoir. That
was a man to be proud of, a beauty, too (by your engraving), I never
had the pleasure of a personal acquaintance.
I feel with you that we have come into the land of leave-taking.
Hardly a paper but records the death of some of Mr. Stowe's
associates. But the river is not so black as it seems, and there are
clear days when the opposite shore is plainly visible, and now and
then we catch a strain of music, perhaps even a gesture of
recognition. They are thinking of us, without doubt, on the other
side. My daughters and I have been reading "Elsie Venner" again. Elsie
is one of my especial friends,--poor, dear child!--and all your
theology in that book I subscribe to with both hands.
Does not the Bible plainly tell us of a time when there shall be no
more pain? That is to be the end and crown of the Messiah's mission,
when God shall wipe all tears away. My face is set that way, and
yours, too, I trust and believe.
Mr. Stowe sends hearty and affectionate remembrance both to you and
Mrs.
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