Yardley, June 19, 1826.
My much-endeared Parishioners,
WHEN I left Madeley, in consequence of the delicate state of my health, I
had fully intended to have rejoined you in a few months. Various
circumstances, however, induced me to accept the proposals made at
different times by Mr. Gwyther, for lengthening the period of our
exchange: and now that this period is nearly terminated, I regret to be
under the necessity of stating, that I feel so strongly my total
inadequacy to resume my wonted station among you, that I dare not venture
upon it.
My health has indeed, through the blessing of God, upon the diminution of
my parochial duties, been considerably amended. It is the opinion,
however, of all my more intimate friends, that, should I return to my
charge, I shall in a few weeks sink under the pressure of those numerous
parochial cares and duties which before so materially injured me. I
have, therefore, felt constrained to resign my situation; and have just
written to Mr. Burton, stating to him, that I shall vacate the Curacy at
Michaelmas next.
I have not mentioned to him anything respecting my successor, leaving a
matter so materially affecting yourselves to your own superior judgment.
I hope, however, that the principal inhabitants of the parish will lose
no time in making a proper application to him; and from the repeated
proofs which I have had of his kind feeling towards you, I have no doubt
but that he will comply with any request which they may see fit to make
to him.
As to my own future movements I am altogether ignorant. I trust,
however, that the same gracious GOD, who guided my steps among you, will
still appoint for me my future path: and with regard to yourselves, a
people who will never cease to be remembered by me with feelings of the
strongest affection, I do most sincerely pray that a pastor may be given
to you who shall, in all respects, answer your most sanguine wishes: and
thus supply my own numerous and often-lamented deficiencies.
Believe me to remain,
Your very affectionate though unworthy Minister,