We are now arrived at that period in Mr. Venn's life, when the decay of his bodily strength, and the symptoms of approaching old age, became more and more apparent. The letters may, perhaps, from this time, manifest an abatement in vigour and comprehension of thought; but they acquire an additional value, when they are regarded as containing the matured reflections of a mind furnished with long and extensive experience amongst persons of a religious character; and, also, as exhibiting the peace and resignation of an aged Christian, during the last stage of his earthly pilgrimage, and his full assurance of faith and hope in the glory ready to be revealed.

TO THE REV. JOHN VENN

Yelling, June 19, 1788.

MY DEAR SON,

Yours, dated the 12th, came safe, and gave us all much cause to be thankful. What do we all owe to the grace of our God, for withholding us from evil—for delivering from the dominion of our corruption! Very few are free from sloth and idleness. Averseness to all labour, and all cultivation of the mind, is a considerable part of the universal depravity. With pleasure I read of your progress in human learning : for you will know how to improve it, and use it well for the glory of the Giver of every talent. Our ministry is hindered, because so very few preachers of Christ are pains-taking men, to read much, and to think much, in order to be full men in the pulpit; which, joined with prayer, gives a relish in the people's mind, where they hear us; whereas it is very different, when either reading or thinking is neglected.