If the beginning of my acquaintance with her companion dates somewhat later, it ripened early, I suppose mutually so, into a strong attachment. Integrity of character was my first impression of the man; whether an instinct or a judgment, there never was a doubt as to its correctness. Strong in faith, also--_the old-time faith_, of apostolic color, for he took no pleasure in "new departures." Sound in doctrine, fervent in spirit, wise in council, stable in action, he was truly a strong "pillar in the house of the Lord." If he wrought obscurely, as the world moves, my impression is that he did some excellent work for eternity in the most quiet sort of way. I do not think Heaven could be a surprise to one of his habits and trend of life. He could assimilate the good easily. Though positive in his feelings, and sensitive of attachment, he was no mere man-worshipper, whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, so long as it was the _Word of Christ_, faithfully, earnestly preached; he was a responsive hearer. The chief desire was that the _word_ should be successful. Perhaps simplicity was as characteristic as any other distinct trait. If he did not choose the uppermost seats he occupied them becomingly when once bidden to take them. I remember him not so much by means of incidents--his life was not formed on that plan; but by the deep impression of genuine, unpretentious godliness. If I have written at too great length, my heart is full. In deep sympathy with those who will so surely mourn their loss, and grateful for the privilege of a tribute, I am, Sincerely yours, GEORGE O. PHELPS, _An Ex-Pastor_. * * * * * * The more I read and study the phraseology of this letter, welling up out of a full heart, the more I am convinced of its adaptedness to impart encouragement to others the same in kind and degree as was doubtless reciprocally experienced in days of yore, "for as iron sharpeneth iron, so does the countenance of man his friend." Here is another tender and terse tribute from the same source to their only son--the request for particulars regarding their last illness, which produced the leaflet entitled "A Short Account of the Last Hours"--that has been already a rich spiritual blessing to many souls. UTICA, N.Y., November, 1886. MR. WM. KNOWLES: DEAR BROTHER--We have just learned of the departure of your dear parents. Our attachment to them was exceptionally strong, even as our association in the Master's work was intimate. I have been looking over your father's letters, too few in numbers; how full of human kindness, how intensely godly. Be assured of our sincere regard for you and others in this great bereavement. May we not receive, at your convenience, particulars of their last illness and going? We have no knowledge of either case.