Indeed it has been my home ever since I undertook this work which I love dearly, and which I hope to continue so long as the Lord sees fit, and gives me strength to work for Him." I am permitted to make the following extract from a letter written by Melita to Mrs.Whiting, in February, 1868.

I give the exact language, as the letter is written in English: Prussian Institution, Beirut, _February 23, 1868_.
My Dear Mrs.Whiting-- It is so cold this morning that I can with difficulty hold my pen.
It has been a very cold and stormy month, and there seems no prospect of fair weather yet.

The snow on the mountains is as low as the lowest hills, and I pity the poor creatures who must be suffering in consequence.

J.enjoys the weather very much; indeed he seems so exhilarated and invigorated by it that one could almost wish it to last on his account, but I must say that I wish it was over, and the warm sunbeams shedding their genial rays again upon the cold frozen earth.
Trouble and grief are such a common complaint at present that you will not be surprised to hear me relate my share of them.

I have indeed had my full share, and you would say so too had you seen how I was occupied during my holidays last summer, in taking care of my ill and suffering brother.