To Rev. J. Allen.
Ardnaree, Nov. 11, 1834.
Rev. Sir,
I am happy to inform you that many instances present themselves in this part of the country, of persons forsaking their former wicked course of living, and giving themselves to the study of the Scriptures, and that through the instrumentality of the Baptist Institution; persons who, if left to themselves, in all probability, would have lived and died ignorant of a saving knowledge of Christ Jesus.
On the 23rd, ult., I went to the neighbourhood of Castlebar, among our schools. In that part I read and talked to many of the inhabitants regarding the “one thing needful;” left the persons with whom I thus read and conversed, religious tracts as usual. M. MʻKelvey, with whom I had several conversations regarding the ordinance of baptism, intends to offer himself as a candidate to the Ballina Baptist church soon.
We have great cause for thankfulness that the Lord is pleased to grant us so many favourable opportunities of reading and explaining his holy word to our countrymen and fellow-sinners, being aware that if they knew the truth the truth would make them free.
In the neighbourhood of Foxford, I have strove to be useful, particularly in Shrakum, had a seasonable opportunity of reading applicable portions of the Scriptures in the hearing of many persons, young and old, who answered their various questions respecting religion; we also joined in prayer. The people then present seemed to be satisfied with my answers to the questions which they asked on several occasions.
There are three new places in which I frequently read the Scriptures in this neighbourhood, namely, Rakep, Caltrough, and Bunzee; in all those places I read portions both of the English and Irish Testament, diligently endeavouring to draw the serious attention of my various hearers, as usual, to the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.
There is a man of the name O’Donell in Hill-street, Ballina, to whom I have given a Testament some time ago; he comes to your preaching, and does not care for either priest or pope, for so doing. On the 7th instant, went among our schools in the Tyrarough district; remained in Easkey two days; met and had conversation with many of our Christian friends there. May they daily receive all needful grace and strength out of the fulness that is in Christ Jesus!
There is a man and his wife that lately came to live in this town; she is a nominal protestant, but he is a papist, they frequently come to my house for the purpose of getting religious instruction. They were with me on Saturday last, at which time I read several applicable portions of the Scriptures to them, and also answered their questions respecting religion, from the criterion of truth. They both can read. I have given them several useful tracts, and a book entitled, “The Errors of Popery.” I intend to visit them often, and they promised to attend your preaching. I hope these visits to my home, with the blessing of God, will be the means of directing them to the Saviour, who alone is able and willing to save to the uttermost all that put their trust in him.