ved a letter from my worthy friend
Mr. Brackenbury, in which he informed me that he had received a
communication from Mr. Jackson stating that since my departure from
Madrid the Society had heard nothing from me and that it was anxious on
my account. This intelligence astonished me; as towards the end of
January and beginning of February I wrote two letters, one to yourself
and the other to Mr. Hitchin. From yourself I had expected an answer,
and your silence made me very, very unhappy. For upwards of five months
I have not heard a word from England, though during that period I have
written twelve letters, of which seven were to the Bible Society.

I did not return to England immediately after my departure from Madrid,
for several reasons. First, there was my affair with the _Alcalde_ still
pending; second, I wished to get my papers into some order; third, I
wished to effect a little more in the cause, though not in the way of
distribution as I had no books; moreover the house in which I resided was
paid for, and I was unwilling altogether to lose the money; I likewise
dreaded an English winter, for I have lately been subjected to attacks,
whether of gout or rheumatism I know not, which I believe were brought on
by sitting, standing and sleeping in damp places during my wanderings in
Spain. The _Alcalde_ has lately been turned out of his situation, but I
believe more on account of his being a Carlist than for his behaviour to
me; that however, is of little consequence, as I have long forgotten the
affair. I have again been in trouble; and the Government and clergy seem
determined on persecuting me until I leave Spain. I embark on the third
of next month, and you will probably see me by the sixteenth. I wish
very much to spend the remaining years of my life in the northern parts
of China, as I think I have a call to those regions, and shall endeavour
by every honourable means to effect my purpose. I have a work nearly in
readiness for publication, and two others in a state of forwardness. The
title of the first I take the liberty of sending you on the other side.
I hope yet to die in the cause of my Redeemer.

I have at present nothing further to say of importance.

I therefore remain, as usual, Revd. and dear Sir, most sincerely yours,

G. B.

_P.S._--What an admirable man and Christian is Mr. Brackenbury!

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