I have heard her condemn Socinianism, Calvinism, and many
other 'isms' inconsistent with Church of Englandism. I used to wonder at
her acquaintance with such subjects."
"May 10th, 1836.
"I was struck with the note you sent me with the umbrella; it showed a
degree of interest in my concerns which I have no right to expect from
any earthly creature. I won't play the hypocrite; I won't answer your
kind, gentle, friendly questions in the way you wish me to. Don't
deceive yourself by imagining I have a bit of real goodness about me.
My darling, if I were like you, I should have my face Zion-ward,
though prejudice and error might occasionally fling a mist over the
glorious vision before me--but I _am not like you_. If you knew my
thoughts, the dreams that absorb me, and the fiery imagination that at
times eats me up, and makes me feel society, as it is, wretchedly
insipid, you would pity and I dare say despise me. But I know the
treasures of the _Bible_; I love and adore them. I can _see_ the Well
of Life in all its clearness and brightness; but when I stoop down to
drink of the pure waters they fly from my lips as if I were Tantalus.
"You are far too kind and frequent in your invitations. You puzzle
me. I hardly know how to refuse, and it is still more embarrassing to
accept.
Pages:
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184