RichardsonLeonard18530616_003

he had not hat hope which will prove
as an anchor to the soul - "sure + steadfast"
In accordance with his request a note was
read from the pulpit stating that he wished
the prayers of christians - He was prayed for
in a most fervent manner, + it seemed
as though his life would be spared so earnest
was the prayer - But it was otherwise
ordained - he grew worse + worse and monday
afternoon the fifth day after he was confined
breathed his last. Thus has a youth of 16
years, an only son of fine talents, the hope
of his father + joy of a fond mother been cut down.
But if it is solemn to think of his death
the scenes which it has caused are far
more so. The sabbath I said was a solemn
one, many of the impenitent that night
were inquiring the way to eternal life, and
the feeling that christians should pray +
labor filled every breast. But the most
affecting was monday morning at prayers -
Fear seemed to have come upon all - twas
so still throughout the academy, the least
noise might be heard. The voice of the
Principal as he expounded the scriptures
came rolling up through the large hall
like the noise of thunder. One would have
supposed all to have been hushed, you could