New York City, November, 1886.
Dear Mr. Young—My acquaintance with Mr. and Mrs. Knowles was so limited that my knowledge of them could be only of the most general character. I knew them, as all who knew them could testify, as earnest, loving Christians, faithful in their church duties, prayerful and consistent; and evidently living always near to Christ. I prized their friendship much; I feel how deep the loss to the church must be in being deprived of their active influence and their believing prayers.
With thanks for your kindly note, conveying the sacred request, I remain, dear sir,
Sincerely yours,
Nath'l W. Conkling.
To show how greatly beloved they were by all denominations we insert this closing tribute from a dear servant of Christ, whose calm, clear eye of penetration recognized that, by prayerfully studying the character of Christ we became assimilated to His glorious image. He is a member of the Society of Friends.
Clintondale, N.Y., June 23, 1887.
Duncan M. Young:
Dear Brother—Yours received, bearing us news indeed. We had not heard before of the demise of our dear Brother and Sister Knowles.