Page:Memorials of Capt. Hedley Vicars, Ninety-seventh Regiment by Marsh, Catherine, 1818-1912.djvu/122

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THE HOSPITAL.
113

We expect to move into barracks in a day or two, which will be much more pleasant.

"Dearest Mary, how it increases my love for you to know that you are seeking after the same Saviour, that you are following after Jesus,

"

'Oh, may we ever walk in Him.
And nothing know beside,
Nothing desire, nothing esteem,
But Jesus crucified.

"A few of us have met together on different occasions in one of the tents, and twice under the rocks for reading the Scriptures: but when we get into barracks, I hope we shall be able to have a regular meeting every day, as we did on board the Orinoco. One or two of those who are entering on the Christian course have much to encounter in the way of ridicule, but God will give them strength and courage.

"I have nothing to put up with in this way now; the worst, by far the worst, of all my real enemies, I find to be my own evil heart; and it is in conquering and overcoming this that the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit are shown in all their magnitude and restraining force.

"Best love to you all, and to the chicks. My love to dear Miss Strutt. God bless you all. May we be kept close to Jesus.

"Ever, dearest Mary, your most deeply attached and affectionate brother,

"Hedley,"
"Piræus, July 2d, 1854."
"Heaven's blessing upon you dearest friend, for your precious letters. I cannot tell you with what delight I hailed your handwriting. Immediately I sallied forth, to my cave under the rocks, where I had the rich enjoyment of reading them undisturbed. How I long, with you, to have my heart