‘_Sunday Evening._ ‘MY DEAR MISS BEALE,—My first few lines written by myself must be to you. All through last week the Epistle and your words about it have been such a help. It was just like one of your Scripture lessons every day all to myself. I am still going on so well, but of course it must take time, and I am not out of the wood. Still, as you said, all is well and will be well. Thank you so much for Lilla’s letter. I am so sorry she is not well, and Lucy Soulsby too. I am so rejoiced to hear you are so well and vigorous, and that College is overflowing. How wonderful it all is, and so inspiring. ‘I had begun Archbishop Benson’s _St. Cyprian_ and your book before the operation, but have been too weak to read since. I hope to begin to-morrow. If you have read anything lately you think I should like, will you tell me the names? It must not be philosophy. I hope to have the best papers of the Church Congress read to me....’ Shortly after this Miss Belcher wrote herself on an anticipated visit from another physician:— ‘MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,— ... Dr. Robson of Leeds comes to-morrow. I know you will pray that the “right judgment” will be given. It is thought he will operate, but not certain. Please let Eliza and Susan Draper know. I cannot forget all I owe to you, my friend and guide, of so many years. We have a private celebration to-morrow at eight, but you will not get this in time to think of us.—Ever your loving and grateful friend, ‘M. BELCHER. ‘You shall hear as soon as possible.’ * * * * * ‘_Dearest Marian_,—I have heard from Susan.... Of course we can’t understand, and we only know that all is well. I thought of you so much at prayers this morning. I read the Lesson instead of the Epistle. “The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God, and there shall no torment touch them.” We missed your accustomed visit on the term holiday yesterday.’ * * * * * ‘_First Sunday in Advent, 1898._