V.C. Nov. 8, 1868
My darling Brother,
You have been much in my thoughts, today, and I must
write you a few lines, or I can not call the day well over. I was made
happy by the receipt of a letter from you the day before yesterday. I am
glad you have become a member of the Young Men*s Association, of which
you spoke, and I hope you will find it a means of much active labor, and a
benefit to yourself, as I know you will. I have seen somewhere something
to the effect that a free gift blesses the giver no less than the receiver.
Its reflex influence is as great as its direct influence. I think the saying
is certainly true whatever be the nature of the gift, be it money, time, labor
or any-thing that it is in our power to give. Where are you now? You tell
me you are quite pleasantly situated, but do not say where. I hope you will
write to me often. A very short letter, if you have not time to write more,
will cheer my heart wonderfully. You don't know how thankful and happy it
makes me feel to know that you are keeping up, true and firm. Are you much
alone, when not at the Office? What do you do with your time evenings?
Whom have you for companions or friendd? I wonder what you are doing
now. You must seek those whose friendship and companionship would
strengthen and sustain you. I know there are many such, who will be ready
to help and assist you, as well as those to lead you astray. It is time to go
to prayer-meeting, and I must leave you for a few moments.
Nov. 8, 1868 - 2
We have a Missionary Society In the College, meeting once a
month; and have readings from magazines or any information in regard to
missionary work. Tonight, a lady was here, who has just come from Syria
and told us about her work. It is very interesting, but very sad to think of
the degradation and ignorance of our fellow - c r ea tur e s. However, one need
not go to Syria to find it. There is plenty of opportunity for missionary
work in our own country.
My life here is much the same from day to day, a very busy, happy
life. I find I cannot go to work quite so vigorously as I did last year. I
have to ease off, every once la a while. However, I did not expect to be
equal to as much for the first part of this year, as I usually am and am
getting along very well.
X have many good, dear friends and after all, they are the very best
gifts the world can give us. Xt is getting near my bed-time and I think I
must say good-night. I will think of and pray for you at the time you spoke
of. Think of me, and pray for me, brother, that I may live a pure Christian
life, aad may be a worker for God.
X am progressiag well la German, and am very fond of it. My room-
mate says I do nothing but grin from the time I take up my German book,
until X am through studying It. Write to me soon again. May the Lord bless
and keep thee Is the earnest prayer of,
Your loving sister,
Annie.
(Annie (Glidden) Houts, '69,