265. CCLXVI.—To JOHN FLEMING, Bailie of Leith

CCLXVI.—To JOHN FLEMING, Bailie of Leith (COMFORT ABOUNDING UNDER TRIALS.)

WORTHY SIR,—Grace, mercy, and peace be to you.—The Lord hath brought me safe to this strange town. Blessed be His holy name, I find His cross easy and light, and I hope that He will be with His poor sold Joseph, who is separated from his brethren. His comforts have abounded towards me, as if Christ thought shame (if I may speak so) to be in the common of such a poor man as I am, and would not have me lose anything in His errands. My enemies have, beside their intention, made me more blessed, and have put me in a sweeter possession of Christ than ever I had before; only the memory of the fair days I had with my Well-beloved, amongst the flock intrusted to me, keepeth me low, and soureth my unseen joy (1 Corinthians 2:9). But it must be so, and He is wise who tutoreth me in this way. For that which my brethren have, and I want, and others of this world have, I am content; my faith will frist God my happiness. No son is offended that his father give him not hire twice a-year; for he is to abide in the house, when the inheritance is to be divided. It is better that God’s children live upon hope, than upon hire.

Thus remembering my love to your worthy and kind wife, I bless you and her, and all yours, in the Lord’s name.

Yours, in his only, only Lord Jesus,

S. R.

ABERDEEN, Sept. 20, 1637.