"I think you will have heard that my dearest daughter Magdalen
is born again to the eternal kingdom of Christ. But although I
and my wife ought to do nothing but give thanks, rejoicing in
so happy and blessed a departure, by which she has escaped the
power of the flesh, the world, the Turk, and the devil; yet
such is the strength of natural affection, that we cannot part
with her without sobs and groans of heart. They cleave to our
heart, they remain fixed in its depths--her face, her
words--the looks, living and dying, of that most dutiful and
obedient child; so that even the death of Christ (and what are
all deaths in comparison with that?) scarcely can efface her
death from our minds. Do thou, therefore, give thanks to God in
our stead. Wonder at the great work of God who thus glorifies
our flesh! She was, as thou knowest, gentle and sweet in
disposition, and was altogether lovely. Blessed be the Lord
Jesus Christ, who called and chose, and has thus magnified her!
I wish for myself and all mine, that we may attain to such a
death; yea, rather, to such a life, which only I ask from God,
the Father of all consolation and mercy."