The birthday cakes and other "dainty tricks" by loving hands prepared and sent to grace the festive board, told tales of love. One thing alone marred the pleasure of the day and checked the overflow of its cup of bliss: Two loved and loving ones were far away and disappointed in their hope of being here. These would have made the ring complete, the family circle whole. But such, again, is life. Its disappointments will forever come. We should expect them, therefore, and be content. This is my fiftieth milestone along life's rugged road. At this half-century mark I set up a pillar, as did Jacob of old. "Here I'll raise my Ebenezer, Hither by Thy help I've come, And I hope, by Thy good pleasure, Safely to arrive at home." Thus far in life has a loving Father led me, and in his providential care I trust for all the rest. I place my trusting hand in His, asking to be led as He sees the way. "Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah," shall be my constant prayer. And thus, dear Father, the rest of life I leave with thee. Dear Lord, should birthdays more be mine To spend on earth to Thee, Thy cause shall claim them wholly Thine As earnest work can be. And should'st Thou will the next be one In Thy bright home above, I gladly say, "Thy will be done," And join Thee in Thy love. COTTAGE HOME, March 7, 1886. CHAPTER XX. Conclusion by the Editor. Tokens of Love from Many. Keeps Writing. Controversy with the _Standard_. Last Meeting with His Mother. Visited by Professors McGarvey and Graham. Commits His Writings to the Latter. Visits Eminence and Lexington. Many Brethren Come to See Him. Meeting at Mt. Byrd. Estimate of His Character. The Closing Scenes. Farewell to His Family. Dies. Funeral Services. The foregoing autobiography closes with June 13, 1885, while the life of the author was prolonged till January 6, 1887, and it remains for the editor to record a few of the incidents transpiring in the interval; and to bring this remarkable recital to a close.