Orphanhood is, I know, very
dismal, and entails a great deal of work, because it deprives us of
those who are set over us. Whence I conclude that you do not
write to me, because you are depressed at what has happened to you, and
at the same time are now very much occupied in visiting the folds of
Christ, because they are attacked on every side by foes. But
every grief finds consolation in communication with sympathising
friends. Do then, I beg you, as often as you can, write to
me. You will both refresh yourself by speaking to me, and you
will comfort me by letting me hear from you. I shall endeavour to
do the same to you, as often as my work lets me. Pray yourself,
and entreat all the brotherhood earnestly to importune the Lord, to
grant us one day release from the present distress.