p448 E L Bevir, I have been here for a conference, four days, for a general meeting, but reading with the chief workmen for a week before and after - I fully trust for blessing and reception of the truth, and we were happy, and had communion. There have been a vast number of conversions all round the country on to the borders of Russia, not only through brethren, but through free preachers also. Infidelity is rampant, and so in America, but the Lord is working too.

I have been writing for the Italians on Galatians; nothing new, but truth and God's ways more distinct, and the character of popery, not speaking of its abuses. Indeed truth is daily clearer to me, and I hope heavenly objects too. All is laid up for us there - I suppose to be more fully enjoyed, but the same joy - and that is satisfying: let us work in hope. He has blessed us with all spiritual blessings, yet all is still to come: we have it now in an earthen vessel. For some time past the weather has been so bad that the swallows have left in despair - gone in a body, not one left! But higher up it is always fine, and there our hearts have to live.

Elberfeld.