"It is surprising to view the beauties of creation, in which we see how everything is formed for the use and comfort of man. Yet how sadly they abuse the great profusion of His blessing. 'What more could He have done for His vineyard than He hath done for it?'--Isaiah 5: 4. Whilst I meditate on the extent of His goodness and long suffering, on the cross of Him who died for all, and then think of the wickedness that abounds, I am obliged to mourn. Oh my loving parents, may we be wise for both worlds, for time and for eternity! I have had serious thoughts of late why it was that my father did not write to me. As I am here in the wilderness without any relatives or connections, I thought that love for me would have led him to seek my enlightenment if I am in darkness, he being acquainted with the Scriptures; and if I am right, I thought he would wish to give me encouragement. My love to all for their kindness. "Your prayerful servant, J. BADGER." "STANSTEAD, July 16, 1814. "DEAR FATHER,--According to my expectation when at your house, I started on my journey to the southward, preaching on my way; Friday at Derby, Saturday at Holland, Sunday at Major Stewart's, in Morgan, where I met a large concourse of people, among whom were eleven young persons from Derby, who were deeply awakened to a sense of their danger whilst out of Christ. To their ardent solicitation for me to return to Derby, I have yielded, which makes it expedient for me to tarry one week more. I do not enjoy very good health, but my mind is happy. I feel that at most a few more rolling suns will bring me to the fair city of Rest. Each beating pulse but leaves the number less. Had I time I would gladly ride to Compton to see you. But it is wholly uncertain when we again shall meet. I ofttimes think of you all. My love to relatives and inquiring friends. "'From all that's mortal, all that's vain, And from this earthly clod, Arise, my soul, and strive to gain Sweet fellowship with God.' "I subscribe myself a Disciple of Christ, or a Friend to Mankind. "J. BADGER." "ASCOTT, July 27, 1813. (In haste.)