en and spelt. But
this the rather tended to endear the hitherto unknown writer, as it
seemed characteristic of the union of humbleness of station with eminence
of piety. I felt quite thankful that I was favoured with a correspondent
of this description; the more so, as such characters were at that time
very rare in the neighbourhood. I have often wished that epistolary
intercourse of this kind were more encouraged and practised among us. I
have the greatest reason to speak well of its effects both on myself and
others. Communication by letter as well as by conversation with the
pious poor has often been the instrument of animating and reviving my own
heart in the midst of duty, and of giving me the most profitable
information for the general conduct of the ministerial office.

As soon as the letter was read I inquired who was the bearer of it.

"He is waiting at the outside of the gate, sir," was the reply.

I went out to speak him, and saw a venerable old man, whose long hoary
hair and deeply wrinkled countenance commanded more than common respect.
He was resting his arm upon the gate, and tears were streaming down his
cheeks. On my approach he made a low bow, and said,--

"Sir, I have brought you a letter from my daughter, but I fear you will
think us very bold in asking you to take so much trouble."

"By no means," I replied; "I shall be truly glad to oblige you and any of
your family in this matter, provided it be quite agreeable to the
minister of your parish."

"Sir, he told me yesterday that he should be very glad if I could procure
some gentleman to come and bury my poor child for him, as he lives five
miles off, and has particular business on that day; so when I told my
daughter, she asked me to come to you, sir, and bring that letter, which
would explain the matter."

I desired him to come into the house, and then said,--

"What is your occupation?"

"Sir, I have lived most of my days in a little cottage at ---, six miles
from here. I have rented a few acres of ground, and kept some cows,
which, in addition to my day-labour, has been the means of supporting and
bringing up my family."

"What family have you?"

"A wife, now getting very aged and helpless; two sons, and one daughter;
for my other poor dear child is just departed out of this wicked world."

"I hope for a better."

"I hope so too. Poor thing, she did not use to take to such good ways as
her sister; but I do believe that her