Dear William

Letter, no date.
Thanks to Sara, I can give you the text:

Dear William,
I would like to have a conversation with you but I am so confined at home this winter. I must take this mode to communicate a few thoughts. I am sorrow for that sentiment you uttered that Mr. Robertson objected to at the annual meeting of the congregation.  I have known Mr. Robertson for many years and tho he has some peculiarities of temper yet I think him an honest and I hope a pious man. 

I called on him last Saturday, he was milde and without any irritations and wished me to say to you that he entertained no hard feelings toward you on account of it, and do not wish his name farther used in the matter but still think there would  have been no harm if you had withdrawn the expression for if it meant any thing at all, individual or general it must have some reference to those who have withdrawn from the church and those he referred particularly to and they had withdrawn with a clear santificate and may feel disposed some day soon to join the church again... but if they had any occasion to suppose that the congregation considered them to be drop it would wound their feelings and be discreditable to the church.

I have heard the opinion of two or three of your friends here and they all think its an an unfortunate word; enemies will rejoice and make use of it. I have thought it right to consult with you about the matter. We need your help in the church, and I would be someone to have your influence injured. I do not write officially but as a personal friend. Think over the matter, and let me know your second thoughts as soon as convenient.

Found in "The Holy Bible" published by B. Waugh and T. Mason for the Methodist Episcopal Church, 1834.

Note: some spelling and paragraph breaks added by me for easier reading.





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