" with brightness on his wings. I have
oft been cast down, but blessed be the Lord who has given me the
"oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit
of heaviness." My mind at times has been filled with doubts and
fears, and I have been tempted to say, "I have cleansed my heart in
vain, and washed my hands in innocency," but the Lord has saved my
feet from slipping, and established my goings upon a firm
foundation. He has put a new song into my mouth, and enabled me to
say, "What time I am afraid I will trust in Thee."

_April 17th._--This day, for the first time, I have declared to the
aborigines of the country that "Jesus is precious to those who
believe." My heart rejoiced in God, who is claiming the heathen for
His inheritance.

_April 19th._--[On this day Dr. Ryerson wrote from Saltfleet to his
Mother. He said:--

As you, my dear Mother, were always anxious about my health, I write
to-day to assure you that since I left home it has been extremely good.
I think I am making some small progress in those attainments which are
only acquired by prayer, and holy devotedness to God. I find the work I
have undertaken is an all-important one. I have many things to learn,
and many things to unlearn. I have had some severe trials, and some
mortifying scenes. At other times I have been unspeakably blessed, and I
have been greatly encouraged at some favourable prospects. Several times
my views have been greatly enlarged, and my mind enlightened, while,
with a warm and full heart, I have been trying to address a large and
much affected congregation. It is not my endeavour to shine, or to
please, but to speak to the heart and the conscience. And with a view to
this, I have aimed at the root of injurious prejudices, and notions that
I have found prevalent in different places. I find, by experience, that
a firm reliance on the power and grace of Christ is everything. I hope
that you, my dear Mother, will pray for me that the Lord will give me
grace, power, and wisdom to do my whole duty.

I am very sorry to hear of your ill-health. I hope and pray that the
Father of all mercies will continue to support, comfort, and deliver
you, in the midst of your afflictions and sorrows. Blessed be the Lord,
dear Mother, the day is not far distant when you can rest your weary
spirit in the arms of Jesus; and should I survive you, while you are
pursuing the blesse