I have left your letter[1] unanswered a little longer, as I did not see Mr Crombleholme[2] as soon as I expected to show him the letter which you had addressed to him.

As for Mr Bril having a strong desire to come to England, I feel sick of writing any more. Those who are called by God to the English missions have now ample opportunity of manifesting their wishes a qui de droit[3]

With regard to the young man, in whom you seem to take considerable interest, p2considering his bodily defects, I would not dare to recommend the Bishop to accept him, without first seeing him.

There is in the enclosed letter[4] a wonderful "naïveté" which pleases me. His thoughts, clothed in very simple language, seem of the highest spiritual order. & God often blesses the labours of such men in a wonderful manner.

But, as I said just now, I would rather not recommend him at present. You seem to have invited him to Bruges, to pursue his studies under your superintendance & this no doubt is the best course. Unfortunately we could not guarantee p3him as yet that he will be admitted.

As it does not appear to be the will of God that you should come to England, I am rejoiced to hear that -- you & Mr Algar are undertaking a very beautiful work at Bruges. May God bless your endeavours!