Thanks for your letter just come in. I feel that things are rapidly thickening and closing in; but that is a time to look up, and makes the testimony more important, so that it gives courage. Nothing can turn aside the Lord's testimony and power, and if He gives an open door, no man can shut it, nor can anything affect His suited care and faithfulness to the church. I am very thankful for the saints' prayers, and value them much. Trust in the Lord, and be of good courage, be strong, and He shall stablish your hearts. I am not afraid while He lives and is Jesus. Dear Bellett is gone. I cannot quite account for the peaceful feeling I have as to it. But it is well, and he is well. There was truthfulness of heart, as well as joy in the blessed One, at the close.
Grace and mercy and peace be with you, and with all the saints.
Ever affectionately yours.
October, 1864.