Vestal, Broom County, New York
April 12, 1882
Mrs. J. Augusta Griffing,
Dear Sister;
On returning from Conference, I learned through Brother
Samuel [Griffing] of the sad news of the death of James. This intelligence has
brought sorrow to us all, and must be to you too great for language to express.
Why he should have been stricken down just at this time and in the midst of his
usefulness is mysterious to us, but it behooves us to bow in submission to the
will of Him who doeth all things well. Life is uncertain at the best, and I am
reminded by this providence that what I do for the Master must be done quickly.
James’ record is a glorious one, having had much to do in
establishing and moulding Methodism in Kansas during its whole history. I am
sure that God did not leave him at the last, and hence we can console ourselves
with the assurance that he is now in his mansion above. It is my earnest prayer
that you may be fully sustained in this your great sorrow. It must be a comfort
to you at this time, that you have your children so near you in that far off
land. I do hope they will try to make it pleasant for their mother and that they
will endeavor to carry out in life the instructions they have received from
their now sainted father. Oh my sister, may God comfort us all in this sad hour
by his grace and prepare us to meet Him in our heavenly home!
Write all the particulars as soon as you can for we are
anxious to know. Permelia tells me she wrote you on hearing of his sickness, but
she is so full of sorrow, I have concluded to write this myself hoping that I
may say something to alleviate your suffering and yet I know that words of mine
can do but little. I know you have learned the true source of comfort. Oh trust
in it with all your heart and it will not fail!
Remember
us to the children. Yours &c.,
Asa
Brooks
