Johnson lastly wrote to Dr. Dodd this solemn and soothing letter:--
'TO THE REVEREND DR. DODD.
'DEAR SIR,--That which is appointed to all men is now coming upon you.
Outward circumstances, the eyes and the thoughts of men, are below
the notice of an immortal being about to stand the trial for eternity,
before the Supreme Judge of heaven and earth. Be comforted: your crime,
morally or religiously considered, has no very deep dye of turpitude.
It corrupted no man's principles; it attacked no man's life. It involved
only a temporary and reparable injury. Of this, and of all other sins,
you are earnestly to repent; and may GOD, who knoweth our frailty, and
desireth not our death, accept your repentance, for the sake of his SON
JESUS CHRIST our Lord.
'In requital of those well-intended offices which you are pleased so
emphatically to acknowledge, let me beg that you make in your devotions
one petition for my eternal welfare. I am, dear Sir, your affectionate
servant,
'June 26, 1777.
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