The Reverend Mr. Hewitt was professor of mathematics in Rotherham Independent Seminary, and four years pastor of Barnsley Independent church. He commenced preaching the doctrines we taught, about two years since, and was excommunicated. Many of his flock followed him, so that he was eventually installed in the same church, and the Lord's work prospered. As he is a living epistle, you will have, if all be well, a full explanation. Many will follow, should he approve of the country, etc., who will help the cause, because the Lord hath favored them with this world's goods. We had an utterance during our meeting, which caused us to sing for joy. The Lord was pleased with our brother's holy determination to see you; and we understand that persecution had been great among you, or would be, but we were commanded not to fear, for He would be with us. Praise the Lord. The time is at hand when distance shall be no barrier between us; but when on the wings of love, Jehovah's messages shall be communicated by His Saints. The Lord bless our brother, and may he prove a blessing to you. Be not afraid of our enemies; they shall, {232} unless they repent, be cast down by the Lord of Hosts. The workers of iniquity have been used by the prince of darkness to play the counterfeit; but discernment has been given to us, that they were immediately put to shame, by being detected, so that the flock never suffered as yet by them. Grace, mercy, and peace be unto you from God our Father, and from the Spirit, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. I am, dear sir, Your brother in the Gospel, Thomas Shaw. Barnsley, April 21, 1835. [2] The interview with Mr. Hewitt was brief, and he left with the understanding that he would call again and renew his investigations. As he did not return according to agreement, and hearing he was at Fairport, the council of the Presidency sent him the following letter:-- _To the Reverend Mr. Hewitt_: Sir--In consequence of your not returning as we understood you would at your introduction to us, it was resolved and approved in council, on the evening of the 14th instant, that the bearer of this communication, Oliver Cowdery, one of the presiding Elders of our Church, should proceed to Fairport, and ascertain if possible, the cause of your delay; and this is done as one reason, that we feel an anxious desire for the salvation of the souls of men, and to satisfy your inquiries concerning the religion we profess. If at Fairport it is the sincere desire of the council, that Mr. Hewitt return, that we may satisfy him concerning our religion, and he satisfy us concerning his; for we feel as great a desire for the welfare of his people, as he can for ours. With respect, etc., W. W. Phelps, Clerk. {233} [Sidenote: The indifference of Mr. Hewitt.]