ought. The blow at a loyal portion of Her Majesty's
subjects was aimed at them in the dark, 4,000 miles away, and without an
opportunity of defending themselves. An act so ungenerous, and in a
manner so impious too, cannot be endured. We must defend ourselves
against the unjust slanders of the Doctor.--H.]

_Nov. 19th._--I have been blessed with more comfort this evening in
preaching from Matt. xxii. 11-13, to a congregation composed
principally of drunkards and swearers. My heart was warmed, my
tongue loosened, and my understanding enlarged.

_Nov. 20th._--I have been to the Rice Lake Mission: found them
still growing in grace. The children are clean--many of them
handsome. The school teacher is happy in his work.

_Dec. 12th._--My mind has been greatly afflicted this evening in
settling a difference between two brethren.

_Dec. 25th._--Last night we had a service in this place (Presque
Isle) to celebrate the incarnation of our blessed Saviour. Seven
souls professed to experience the pardoning love of Christ. Many
who came mourning went home rejoicing.

_January 1st, 1828._--I am now brought to the close of another
year, and the commencement of a new era of existence. The first
part of the year I spent principally amongst the Indians, and have
reason to believe the Lord blest my labours amongst those needy and
loving people, but my own soul was oft in heaviness. The latter
part of the year I have been on a Circuit, and have found my
enjoyments and improvement increased. The Societies are growing in
piety, my bodily wants have been all supplied, and I have
experienced the fulfilment of the promise, If ye forsake father and
mother, the Lord will take thee up. May I ever rest on it!

_Jan. 2nd._--[The following letter was written at this date to Dr.
Ryerson by his Mother. She says:--

My not writing to you, I understand from your letter to Father, has
given you much uneasiness; but I can assure you I have felt much
concerned about it myself, for fear that you should entertain the
thought of its proceeding from unkindness or neglect: but let the
feelings of affection of a Mother suffice and answer it all. Be
convinced that her happiness depends upon your welfare, and that her
daily prayers will ever be offered up to the throne of grace in yours
and the rest of her children's behalf. O that the Lord may