To William Halliday — Letter 23

Loving friend.

I received your letter. I wish you take pains for salvation. Mistaken grace and something like conversion which is not conversion is the saddest and most doleful thing in the world; make sure of salvation, and lay the foundation sure, for many are deceived. Put a low price upon the world's clay; put a high price upon Christ. Temptations will come, but if they be not made welcome by you, you have the best of it. Be jealous over yourself and your own heart, and keep close touches with God. Let him not have a faint and feeble soldier of you. Fear not to back Christ, for he will conquer and overcome. Let no man shrink at Christ, for I have no quarrels at his cross. He and his cross are two good guests and worth the lodging. Men would gladly have Christ at a low price, but the market will not come down. Acquaint yourself with prayer; make Christ your captain and your armor; make conscience of sinning when no eye sees you. Grace be with you.

Aberdeen. Yours in Christ Jesus. S. R.