FROM my brother, who joined us here the day after the arrival of your
letter, I was rejoiced to find that Mrs. Armstrong and your family had
arrived in safety; for though your frequent voyages must have
familiarized _you_ in some degree to danger, yet _we_ who encounter
nothing beyond the minor and comparatively trivial perils by land, feel a
something approaching to _wondering_ gratitude at your seemingly
hairbreadth escapes. But possibly I misjudge my endeared friend. The
observation which he has thus had “of the works of the Lord and of his
wonders in the deep” has called forth his augmented tribute of praise.
And I trust that being once more surrounded by his dear family, his
comforts will thicken around him, and his sun of prosperity will become
brighter and brighter, and that, if consistent with the divine will, it
may set again no more.
By the commencement of my letter, you will perceive that _I_ have been
wandering as well as yourself; and, considering the difference of our
locomotive powers, I am almost disposed to regard my own movements as the
most astonishing. Madeley I have entirely given up, and left in the
hands of my dear friend Cooper, than whom, I know not any one more suited
to the place. He is, I find, very acceptable. I can say but little at
present of myself: for my _first_ object in settling here was the health
of myself and family, which has already, I am thankful to say, been
considerably improved. And now I am waiting for the first eligible
employment which shall present itself in Bristol, that my renewed health
and strength may be devoted to the glory of Him who has mercifully
restored them, and to the benefit, I trust, of those around me. But
though I have not as yet any settled employment, I am almost constantly
engaged twice on the Sabbath, and, were I not resolutely to refuse, I
should frequently be requested to take a third service.