ge so much beyond the ordinary period of
human life--so much beyond what I expect to reach--as a special
means and call of God to become fully ripe for heaven. You stand a
long time on the margin of eternity--may that margin prove the
verge of eternal glory! As the body grows feeble, may the soul grow
strong! As the bodily sight becomes dim, may the heavenly vision
become brighter, and the heavenly aspirations and assurances
stronger! How great the privilege, and how soul-cheering the
thought, especially at the approach of death, to know that "your
life is hid with Christ in God." It is in safe keeping, and the
disclosure of it bye-and-bye will be glorious beyond conception;
for "when Christ, who is our life, shall appear, shall we then
appear like Him in glory." The sufferings of the present life,
however severe and protracted, are not worthy to be compared with
the glory which that life shall reveal. O, my dear parents, may
that glory be yours in all the fulness of its splendour, and in all
the perfection of its beatitudes!

I thankfully acknowledge the receipt of the two pairs of socks--the
last of the many like tokens of my Mother's affection, and the work
of her own hands. I scarcely ever put them on without a gush of
feeling which is not easily suppressed. They every day remind me of
the hand which sustained my infancy and guided my childhood, and
the heart which has crowned my life with its tenderest solicitudes,
and most fervent and, I believe, effectual prayers. Praised be God
above all earthly things, for such a Mother! May I not prove an
unfaithful son!

We are all well. I was at brother George's to-day. I hope to see
you in the course of the winter. Each of the family unite with me
in expressions of dutiful respect and affection to you. Please
remember me to all those who reside with you, and to all relatives,
and old acquaintances and neighbours.

With daily prayers at the family altar for your health, comfort and
happiness, and anxiously desirous of hearing from you, I am, my
most honoured Parents, your affectionate son,

Toronto, 2nd January, 1847.

Egerton Ryerson.

Between Dr. Ryerson and Rev. Peter Jones a life-long friendship existed.
In a note to Dr. Ryerson, dated Credit, Nov. 1st, 1