I did hear of your dear father's death, and wrote a line to your mother, to express my sympathy; he was one we had known and valued for years. I have not given up the thought of going to New Zealand. It has rather increased with me. Present work is the difficulty of deciding—something of "Satan hindered me." I am at Chicago in a work of patience, and great patience, but we have to do the work before us. It is too long to go into. If I do not go to N.Z. I doubt I shall go to San Francisco. I felt less need of going to N.Z., as Mr. Wigram went just when I was going, and the claims through progressing evil in Europe, and the growing infirmity of age, check the impulse to go. Younger, I should not hesitate, but it is still before me if the Lord graciously set me free here. My mind, through mercy, is as fresh as ever, and scripture seen clearer, but my body not up to fatigue as it was: no wonder at seventy-five, and no sorrow either. Work while it is called to-day is all I look for, and then rest, blessed rest.... I had heard of the blessing in Auckland, and was thankful. Bitter opposition, I am, alas! used to, and am afraid sometimes of taking too much for granted. May we be kept in entire dependence on the Lord, and with full confidence in Him; in that dependence may He guide and direct you, dear, in all things? It may be well you should see the old country again. There are sometimes steps in our career. May you only have one object; to follow Him wholly!
Yours affectionately in the Lord.
Chicago,
1875.