constitution, indeed, of our most efficient religious institutions speaks a contrary language; especially that of the visiting and district societies, in which the principle of lay co-operation is clearly recognized, and the obligation thence arising is fully avowed. In truth, it requires but little sagacity to predict that, in the noble enterprise now in progress for evangelizing the world, the zealous exertions of Christians generally will be more and more called forth. Such an active and pervading influence seems evidently implied in the prophecy of Jeremiah, as cited by the apostle of the Gentiles, alluding to the period when “they shall not teach _every man_ his neighbor, and _every man_ his brother, saying, ‘know the Lord;’ for all shall know me, from the least unto the greatest.” We have yet, indeed, to realize the happy day when, even comparatively, _every_ man shall seek the spiritual good of his neighbor; but we are surely authorized to expect it, as well as bound to hasten it, by earnest prayer and vigorous endeavor. We are even encouraged to anticipate the more distant and glorious period, when the omnipotent Saviour shall have given complete efficiency to the universal labor of love, and when “He shall be all in all.” Not to weary your patience further, I will here close my letter; hoping, in a second communication, to present a few _encouragements_ which may serve to cheer you under the difficulties we have been considering. I shall endeavor also to add some practical suggestions, in reference to the most eligible _methods_ of introducing the subject of religion to persons dangerously ill. Of the power of executing the latter part of my task, especially, I cannot but entertain much self-distrust. I remain, my valued friend, Your’s, with sincere regard, T. H. BURDER. _Tilford House, Jan. 1st, 1836._ LETTER II. ON THE ENCOURAGEMENT TO BE EXPECTED IN THE ATTEMPT. MY DEAR FRIEND, In my former communication I placed before you the considerations which had most impressed my own mind, in reference to the _importance_ of aiming to promote the spiritual welfare of the sick. You will have observed that, far from concealing, I fully admitted the difficulties attendant on the effort, while I endeavored to show that they were by no means insurmountable. I am now desirous of presenting to your attention a few of the _encouragements_ which the physician is warranted to expect in pursuing this “work of faith and labor of love.” Such, I apprehend, will be found to arise from THE PECULIAR FACILITIES WHICH THE PROFESSION AFFORDS; FROM THE DIVINE BENEDICTION WHICH MAY BE HUMBLY, YET CONFIDENTLY, ANTICIPATED; AND FROM THE SUCCESS WHICH HAS ALREADY CROWNED SIMILAR EFFORTS.