Page:The Life and Works of Christopher Dock.djvu/113

Rh profession for ten years, for which I often felt the smiting hand of God, which before then had served me well. May the Lord graciously overlook my neglect of the youth during that time.

Further regarding the work asked of me, I stand here as in a deep valley, with a high mountain range before me, and I would much rather end my few remaining days down here in the valley, in the simplicity of life, God being willing, than climb the mountain. I hope my friend will be able to understand me. But as my friend's interest in this matter is the glory of God, and the good education of youth, I can and will not refuse to add what is in my feeble power. Especially as I shall soon, though only God knows when, leave this mortal habitation. O, it should be the supreme desire of every one to promote the glory of God and the common good, for this can make us happy here and in eternity. Holy Script tells us in so many places to do this. For the sake of brevity I shall quote only St. Peter's words (I Peter iv, 10, 11), “As every man hath received the gift even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth; that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ; to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”

Beloved friend, this admonition of the Apostle binds me for the glory of God to serve my neighbor with the gift that God has given me, as I wish to be considered a faithful steward before God, this being