1873 ROBERT MOFFAT. Rich, Devotional 4 Page Autograph Letter by Pioneer African Missionary
1873 ROBERT MOFFAT. Rich, Devotional 4 Page Autograph Letter by Pioneer African Missionary
A really wonderful full four page autograph letter entirely in the hand of pioneer missionary to the Bechuana of South Africa, Robert Moffat. He was, of course, a pioneer in his own right, but also father-in-law to David Livingstone, author, abolitionist and anti-slaver, etc.
The first two pages are charming and chatty. But at 2.5, he turns his eyes to Jesus, the mission of God, and the content is just glorious. I've left the final page un-transcribed below, but the image is present. Read it for yourself. It's lovely.
"64 Knowle Road, Brixton S. W.
13th November 1873.
My dear Mr. Mitchell,
It seems a long time since I parted with you, but you have not been forgotten. Indeed it would be impossible to do so after all the kindness shown to my daughter & myself by the friends of Montrose. I cannot remember a place where we had so much real enjoyment, & never was I with such a picnic.
Altho, so varied it is still to the mind. For once I heard with delight dear old Scotland's music & song while Mr. Jonston's, who left nothing undone that could add to our happiness is beyond all praises. Had I been allowed, I would have prolonged my stay."
He then goes on to speak of his loathing, especially after his time in Africa, of the cold,
"I have now resolved to keep within doors, especially do I have enough for both head & hands. Of course I suffer from & have a wholesome dread of this season of cold & wet & fog. It is really ill suited to a constitution accustomed to as warm, dry climate for more than half a century. But I am the worse of wear & I feel my head be coming sooner tired than usual, & it is hardly to be wondered at when it is remembered how much it has passed thro' or what has passed thro' it."
The letter then moves into some really wonderful content,
"I have still important work before me which I could like to see finished, but He whom I have strived to serve, tho very imperfectly, will order all things well to his own glory. What a mercy my dear & Mr M. to be permitted to do something for Him who died to redeem us."
He continues on for the remaining entire page in rich devotion rendered all the more meaningful because of the life out of which it pours. A beautiful letter.