BROOKLYN, N.Y., JUNE 2ND, 1913
[p. 112] BROOKLYN, N.Y., JUNE 2ND, 1913
Mr. J. Henderson.
My Dear Mr. Henderson, — I am in receipt of your two letters written from Hull.
The news of dear Mr. Pellatt’s departure from our midst had already come, but as your letter contained most particulars it was read to the saints assembled at Plainfield. I need not speak of my deep sorrow in the loss of one known so intimately during almost the whole of my Christian life. I know of no one who loved the truth more than he did, and I never knew him to flinch when it was involved.
When we consider the great ability he had to present it, and his long and varied experience in dealing with souls, the loss occasioned by his removal from amongst us is much more than may be assumed by most. But clearly his work was done, and to the heart of anyone who seeks to serve Christ it is most encouraging to note His gracious ways with our dear brother before taking him to Himself. Had he been taken before going to England, a cloud would have remained in the minds of many as to his real character and worth, which (now that they have had opportunity to see and hear him) must have altogether disappeared. His best ministry was, I believe, on your side; and, in supporting him thus, the Lord honoured His servant, and showed that, whatever others may have thought, He knew that he loved Him.
Mr. Sinclair was greatly attached to Mr. Pellatt, and with many of us, feels keenly our great loss, but we are all greatly comforted by the consideration shown him by the Lord. As yet we have received no word of the funeral, but no doubt this will soon come to hand. I am wondering if you returned to London to attend it. I hope you did.
Mr. Sinclair and myself were wondering whatever notes may be available of our dear brother’s late ministry should not be collected, and perhaps a selection could be made and revised and published, which would represent what the Lord was pleased to give through him at the close of his service. I am sure that any labour thus spent would be more than repaid.
The meetings at Plainfield were good on the whole. The attendance was larger than I have seen at any time in this country, and a remarkably good interest and spirit throughout. There may not have been the same definiteness in the line of things before us as on previous occasions, but through the Lord’s good hand upon us, all was for profit and edification.
We considered Hebrews (suggested by Mr. Jerrard) at the readings. I felt there was special help as we dwelt on chapters 7 and 10. There was considerable difference of judgment as to the priesthood, and a good deal of discussion at one meeting; but as the Lord’s grace was upon all, I believe it was perhaps the best meeting of all.
There were two ‘open meetings;’ at the first Dr. Venkata, Gill and Lock spoke in the order given; at the second, W. Johnson, Steven and Truan spoke. On Lord’s day afternoon, Mr. Jerrard spoke, and Gill preached in the evening.
Dr. Venkata is now staying with me, and will remain ten days or so. He preached in Brooklyn last night; we did not remain in Plainfield for the preaching.
Mr. Johnson’s ministry here is very helpful to many. He has some thought of going to Toronto, and I hope he will, as I believe ministry is what they need most perhaps.
We had a good voyage across through mercy, and I found all well.
Mr. Jerrard and myself have been speaking freely together as to matters on your side, and I trust good may come out of it. I hope to write more later. Much love,
Affectionately in Christ,
James Taylor.