Many a far better man has not been as happy from causes beyond control.

He may have had to contend with feeble health as I never have; or a despondent temperament, as I never have; or have struggled to maintain a large household on a slender purse; he may have been placed in a stubborn field, where the Gospel was shattered to pieces on flinty hearts.

From all such trials a kind Providence has delivered your pastor.
My ministry began in a very small church.

For that I am thankful.

Let no young minister covet a large parish at the outset.