Page:Memorials of Capt. Hedley Vicars, Ninety-seventh Regiment by Marsh, Catherine, 1818-1912.djvu/94

88 Death to the believer is, after all, but an incident in immortality, for Christ says, "He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.' How earnestly I thank my heavenly father for having led me betimes to prepare for that certain eternity beyond the grave. A soldier needs to have Christ in his heart before the hour of battle, although we may hope and believe that to many (like the dying thief) the Son of Righteousness may arise 'with healing in his wings,' even after the swift bullet has brought the awful message, 'Behold, this night (or this hour) thy soul shall be required of thee.'

"I had such a heavenly joy yesterday and to-day, in conversing with a young bandsman, and a corporal whom I sent for, to my room. I was much struck by an observation from the latter (who, for a time, had fallen away, but is now 'all right,') 'I want more of Jesus in this life, Sir, so that when I die I may not be admitted into heaven as a stranger, but be received like a long-lost child would be at his own home.' Surely the Spirit of God is at work in his soul.

"These two men began their Christian course at the same time as myself. I experience fresh delight every time I speak with them of the love of God, of the peace and joy there is in believing. Alas! we understand each other too, when we speak of our weakness, our deadness at times to spiritual perceptions, our cares, and our temptations.

"The Testaments for the men arrived safely. Poor fellows! they were so delighted to get them. I am sure if they knew to whom they were indebted for them, they would desire me to send you their hearty thanks. I greatly like the little 'Soldier's Prayer.' Short, strong, and easy to be understood, it comprehends all that will fit us for heaven. Being a soldier, I take the liberty of using it myself. God grant they may all offer it from the ground of the