which results from my never being contradicted or interfered with, or
much worried, still I do feel this; and may He strengthen me to pray
more for a spirit of prayer.

'I don't know that the actual time for my being consecrated, if I
live, is nearer by reason of this letter: I think it most probable
that it may take place when the General Synod meets, and,
consequently, five bishops will be present, in 1862, at Nelson. But
I suppose it is more fixed than it has been hitherto, and if the
Bishop writes to you, as he may do, even more plainly than he speaks
to me, you will know what especially to ask for me from God, and all
you dear ones will recollect daily how I do inwardly tremble at the
thoughts of what is to come. Do you remember how strangely I was
upset before leaving home for my ordination as a deacon; and now it
is coming to this--a church to be planted, organised, edified among
the wild heathen inhabitants of Melanesia; and what hope can there be
for me if there is to be no growth of a fervent, thankful, humble
spirit of prayer and love and adoration? Not that, as I feel to my
great comfort, God's work is dependent upon the individual growth in
grace even of those who are entrusted with any given work; but it is
in some way connected with it.

'And yet, the upshot of it all is that I shall do (D.V.) what the
Bishop tells me is right. I hope he won't press on the matter, but I
am content now to leave it with him, knowing what you have said, and
being so thankful to leave it with you and him.'

There is a letter to his sister Fanny of the same date, beginning
merrily about the family expostulation on receiving a box of reports
where curiosities had been expected:--