I hear,
as I think it would be greatly to my own interest, for if I pry into
that part of information, there is no danger but that I will have
success in whatever situation I am placed in life. I may be thankful
that I have a room to read my Bible in on Sabbath days. I have none
to speak to me or give me annoyance of any sort whatever. I hope the
next letter I write you, that it will be in a more correct sense. I
hope you will write me by Johnny, when he is coming back to town,
and let me know how you are succeeding in work, and how Jane is
succeeding in the business of the shop. I send my love to all my
friends (everyone in particular), I hope you will let me know how
they are all doing; but I have nothing more to say at present. But I
trust you will write me in the beginning of the week. I must
conclude, as it is now too late for me to say anything more. All
here are well, but Mrs. L----, who is in a bad state of health.

JAMES KNOWLES.

* * * * * *

The following letter is a sample of many to his old pastors, showing
his strong attachment to those who labored with him in word and
doctrine:

NEW YORK, March 26, 1883.

MR. PHELPS--Reverend and dear friend and Christian brother: It has
been my purpose for some time to write to you and yours, even if it
should be but a few lines, to assure you that you are not forgotten
by us; for although you are absent from us, yet your faithful and
earnest appeals still live in our remembrance, and I have no doubt
will continue to do so; and while I may not be able to recall much
of the many sermons which I have heard you deliver, yet the
impressions made upon my mind while sitting under them are retained.
I might, however, state here, that I was sorry to part with you and
your family, and to feel that your pastoral relationship with us
would soon be broken up; I had made up my mind to stay by the Church
while you remained, if I lived, as I was attached to you and your
family as to personal friends.... My wife and I unite in love to you
and Mrs. Phelps and your son.

JAMES KNOWLES.

* * * * * *

COVENANTS WITH GOD.

"Dear Lord, and shall Thy Spirit rest
In such a wretched heart as mine?
Unworthy dwelling! Glorious Guest!
Favor astonishing, Divine!"