It gave me real pleasure to receive your kind words so well written out, and expressing what I am sure you feel. I do not mean only your kind feelings towards me (although I am sincerely grateful for your warm assurances) but I mean much more; you promised to be good boys, and your earnest desire to live upright and honourable lives.

God will bless your desire; and He will give you strength through Jesus Christ to keep all your lives pure and good if you pray as we prayed together and do not forget Him.

I am glad you remembered what I said about your drill. You can get your hearts and thoughts into as good order as you have got hands and feet and all your limbs into if you will take the same pains. I think the gay colours and flowers with which you adorned the address shew that you took pleasure in it as I do. Give my remembrances to Master and Mistress, and be sure that the friends that brought me to see you are true friends who really care for you, and your good conduct will be the best thanks you can give them.