Page:Memorials of Capt. Hedley Vicars, Ninety-seventh Regiment by Marsh, Catherine, 1818-1912.djvu/142

Rh in a call, and am only waiting for a call. It is plain enough you have had one. Why, the other day you were pulling down lamp-posts with me; and now just look at you!' But I trust that in a severe fever which he had here, he learnt that the 'call' was ever sounding in his ears, if he would listen to it — ' will, let him drink of the water of life freely!"

"I often feel myself a weak and helpless creature when defending the glorious truth as it is in Jesus' against the arguments of men for whom he died, who yet deny Him. But I never enter into discussion without first seeking the light and aid of the Holy Spirit to guide and direct me, so that every word may be according to 'the mind of Christ' — 'speaking the truth in love.' To men of my own age, I can now speak more boldly than I could a little while ago. But I do find it very hard to say anything on these subjects to an old man. I pray to be enabled to do so, when the occasion comes, with courage, but always with deference and respect.

"I have lately had some conversation with one of my brother officers who began the Christian course about the same time as I did, but became a sceptic afterwards. I think I see a re-awakening. Oh! help me in praying that soon, 'in returning and rest, he may be saved;' that accepting the mercy which the Gospel reveals, he may soon find the reality, the joy, the delight of the religion of Jesus Christ.

"Thank and bless all who have prayed for me and my regiment during the time of the pestilence. Especially thank your beloved friend, Mrs. Mackenzie and her family, and Dr. Tetley and their friends, for their united prayer on our behalf. Who knows but that I may some day have the pleasure of thanking them myself? One day, by the grace of God, I shall."