Belfast,
November 2 1854
My dear James,

I regretted that that the hurry attending the preparations for the removal of the whole family to this place prevented me from writing by the last mail. I was desirous of reliving your mind of the effects of the unpleasant news I had communicated in my last, by informing you that a great change had taken place for the better. There were expressions of deep contrition with an acknowledgement of gratitude for my undeserved kindness. God had, in fact, at length answered my prayers in great mercy as He saw perhaps that the burden was likely to sink me altogether. I still think there is need of further change, as I sometimes see symptons of the old course but I have cause for gratitude and for trust that He will complete what I hope He has begun.

Mrs Eves is not with us at present having gone to assist Mrs Riddall but as I cannot teach French or some other things that she can, I hope that we shall be able to induce her return before long.

I had my first case of cholera to attend here on Monday last which ended fatally in the evening. The man had been used to drinking I understand. Few of that class can bear up against the disease. He told me he was not prepared to die, so I preached Christ to him as one who saves to the uttermost, then prayed with him and intended to see him again in the evening, but he was dead before I went. Several of the people have shown great concern for me and wish me not to expose myself to danger by visiting him, but I told them I considered it my duty and was convinced that My Master was able to take care of me. A person came to tell me of his death in order to prevent me exposing myself and the family to danger by a second visit. I thought it very kind and considerate. I have not heard of any other cases here since but it is calculated to bring the subject of death very near and shews the need of constant preparation for Eternity when a single day is generally the length of the warning. I often think of you and remember you in prayer and would rejoice to hear that you enjoyed the favour of Him who has all power, to whom belong the silver and the gold, who also can preserve and serve and make you happy. O what a poor thing, what a dangerous thing to be living without the favour of God but what a great and glorious thing to enjoy His smile on all we do.

I hope if spared to hear soon from you and pray that God may enable you to send us good news.

The church in Ligoniel will be ready for opening in 2 or 3 weeks if we can get money to pay the contractor.

We are, thank God, all well and hope you will be able to make a similar report. May God bless and keep you …. My dear James in the prayers of your affectionate father,

W. Parkinson