MS Charlotte Mitchell
My dear Edith
I have thought much of you, you may be sure, in the great sorrow and loss that has come to you – in your Soldier of the Cross having passed the narrow stream1
What a grand and beautiful thing it is that the needs and the down treading of the Church should have the power to awaken the latent power and heroism in men’s souls. How little anything but a Divine faith could inspire a young layman to throw up all prospects to devote himself to the cause, in such toil labour and difficulty – and how encouraging a thing it is to know that such sweet herbs spring up from the trampling. Mrs Wilson had just been telling me about your letter from which I hope that you were more prepared than those at home, who watched the recoveries from the attacks. I am so glad your Sister in law is safe at home with you all, and I hope she will lighten your cares for the Archdeacon in your absence.2 Certainly I can only call you a happy sister to have such brothers. I cannot help thinking your brother Edgar’s youthfulness and buoyancy will be great elements for good in dealing with that great parish.3 I think one great difficulty is the finding people who have spirits not to be depressed but to deal in a hopeful mood with their giants – having previously had good success with their lion and their bear.4 And meanwhile you have the patient praying and encouraging part, which is no small part I am sure. Here am I sitting in the garden in a heavy dew which has made my paper wet through, I hope the ink will not run and that you will be able to read it. Margaret Roberts left me on Saturday
your affectionate
C M Yonge