CXXI.--_To_ WILLIAM HALLIDAY.
[The name "Halliday" occurs on the tombstones of the old churchyard of
Anwoth. No doubt this correspondent was one of his flock at Anwoth.
One of the name lies buried in the old churchyard, with the following
inscription on her tombstone:--
"_Margat_ (_i.e. Margaret_) _Halliday_, spouse of John Bell in
Archland, who departed this life anno 1631, Jan. 27, ætat. suæ 76. O
death, I will be thy death! Now is Christ risen from the dead, and is
the first froot (_i.e._ fruits) of them that ..." (broken off.)
_Archland_ is the same place as _Henton_, in the parish of Anwoth, a
notice of which is given at Letter CCXIX., addressed to this John
Bell.]
(_DILIGENCE IN SECURING SALVATION._)
LOVING FRIEND,--I received your letter.--I wish that ye take pains for
salvation. Mistaken grace, and somewhat like conversion which is not
conversion, is the saddest and most doleful thing in the world. Make
sure of salvation, and lay the foundation sure, for many are beguiled.
Put a low price upon the world's clay; but a high price upon Christ.
Temptations will come, but if they be not made welcome by you, ye have
the best of it. Be jealous over yourself and your own heart, and keep
touches with God. Let Him not have a faint and feeble soldier of you.
Fear not to back Christ, for He will conquer and overcome. Let no man
scaur at Christ, for I have no quarrels at His cross; He and His cross
are two good guests, and worth the lodging. Men would fain have Christ
good-cheap; but the market will not come down. Acquaint yourself with
prayer. Make Christ your Captain and your armour. Make conscience of
sinning[223] when no eye seeth you. Grace be with you.
Yours, in Christ Jesus,