During this period of affliction she wrote the interesting paper found further on in this book, entitled, "TWO YEARS ON THE BRINK OF JORDAN." It was written with a view of reflecting her own experience. The cases alluded to in it of persons crossing the river in Charon's boat, are not ficticious, but solemn records of the death of some of her acquaintances. She preferred to leave them un-named, and I would not now trespass upon her preference; but I repeat, the reader may feel assured, that in every departure of the boat he is looking upon a real death-bed scene, and will understand that morning, noon, and evening, as there used, refer to youth, middle age, and old age. But it was in the home circle that Mother was best known and most honored. To exhibit something of her knowledge of life, I give a few of her letters addressed to her children. They are records of suffering, of patience, of faith, and of love. _January 9, 1875._ DEAR ALICE.--I have been kept at home again to-day by a fit of cholic, which I am having every few days now, or whenever I eat anything. It has not lasted as long to-day as usual, and was not quite as bad. Last Sunday I went to Quarterly meeting in the morning, thinking it would be sacrament service, but it was put off till afternoon, so I have not had the sacrament since August * * * You must not think because I said I had the cholic that I am sick. I am going about, seeing to my work. We killed hogs Monday, and I fixed all the dinner and I go visiting once in awhile, and to day, although confined at home, I have been picking some of the fruit off life's fair tree. I can't tell you how much, but I have got pretty well filled; but I have not got as much charity as I want. * * * * * * * * Your pigeon is living and running with the chickens. YOUR MOTHER. The following letter was addressed to her daughter Alice and her husband Rev. C. C. Filts, when he was very sick. It explains itself, and although it contains matters of a private nature, yet I give it entire to show the beauty and strength of her mind and heart. _June 26, 1875._ MY DEAR CHILDREN.--I am deeply grieved that the dark hand of affliction should fall on you so soon, and I can hardly realize how hard it has been through all these weary weeks of suffering; but, dear Alice, I hope you have done well your duty, and Cethe I trust has born up with Christian patience.