Page:Sketches of the life and character of Patrick Henry.djvu/411

 the wit, or wisdom of the present deistical writers or professors, that can compare them with Hume, Shafts- bury, Bolingbroke, and others? and yet these have been confuted, and their fame decaying; in so much that the puny efforts of Paine are thrown in, to prop their tot- tering fabrick, whose foundations cannot stand the test of time. Amongst other strange things said of me, I hear it is said by the deists that I am one of the num- ber; and indeed, that some good people think I am no christian. This thought gives me much more pain, than the appellation of tory; because I think religion of infinitely higher importance than politics; and I find much cause to reproach myself, that I have lived so long, and have given no decided and pubUc proofs of my being a christian. But, indeed, my dear child, this is a character which I prize far above all this world has or can boast. And amongst all the handsome things I hear said of you, what gives me the greatest pleasure is, to be told of your piety and steady virtue. Be assured there is not one tittle, as to disposition or character, in which my parental affection for you, would suffer a wish for your changing; and it flatters my pride to have you spoken of, as you are.

" Perhaps Mr. Roane and Anne may have heard the reports you mention. If it will be any object with them to see what I write you, show them this. But my wish is to pass the rest of my days, as much as may be, unobserved by the critics of the world, who would show but little sympathy for the deficiencies to which old age is so hable. May God bless you, my dear Betsy, and your children. Give my love to Mr. Aylett, and believe me ever yoiu* affectionate father,

" P. Henry."'

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