“Sir,—I beg to acknowledge my obligations to you for the letter with which you favoured me last week. I do most sincerely condole with you on the death of your son, who had many good qualities that awakened my esteem. I know how fervently you were attached to him, and, considering all things, am almost glad that he died in a manner that could best afford you consolation under the afflicting dispensation that has taken from your age its greatest comfort.
“As to my own creed, to which you refer, that is a totally different thing. It has been deeply reflected on, and has been at least the fruit of as much patient and honest research as your own. I am now in my seventy-ninth year, and am not likely to alter in a matter of so much moment. We must be contented with different results, and should entertain charity for each other. If I am in error, I am in the hands of God, and I humbly trust that he will see the integrity and honesty of my enquiries.
“I am, sir, with much respect, very sincerely yours,
