Boston Dec. 24. 1840Dear brother
Let me congratulate you upon the prospect of the speedy termination of our labors on a committee to supply the pulpit. It is with unspeakible [sic] satisfaction that I announce that Mr. Smith will commence his labors with us on the first sabbath in January. - This is crowned with perfect success; I trust, all our labors, and a result by me the most desired, attained. -
The circumstances that have led to it are truly providential. Not to mention any of those (and they are numerous) that led him (Mr. S.) in the first instance to visit Providence[.] I will mention only some that occured [sic]in relation to me of a recent date. - On my return to this place I found that no answer had been received from Mr. Bradford of Me. - I was therefore obliged to wait several days for it, before I could write to anyone. And when he declined, such was the pressure of my business that I delayed several days writing to Mr. Stone. It was last week on Tuesday or Wednesday that I resolved I would no longer delay writing to him, I had heard that Mr. Smith had accepted the call from Rutland.
My writing paper was before me when Mr. Smith and Mr. Bradford entered my room.
I soon learned the truth of the matter, reinvited Mr. S. and had Mr. B. to assist in presenting our claim, and though he gave no decided answer he left me with the understanding that I should not write to any one until I saw him again. He passed yesterday and today with me, and suffice it to say that he has consented to come and has written to Rutland declining their unanimous call. - More particulars when I see you, I am satisfied that we have obtained the very best man possible, that he is to be prefered [sic] to any candidate we have had or expected to have. -
Still farther for the comfort of our good visitor, he will have for a wife a most excellent lady, has been a professor since fifteen years of age and who once thought of going to Burmah. Mr S. (of course) thinks that he shall be satisfied if he can do as well as she can - this is rather "inter nos."
Now for pecuniary matter, Mr. S. is somewhat in debt on account of his studies, and I suppose if he settles with us would like to get married before long - and so he thinks he will need this year something more than $600. - you know we were to give Mr. L. more, and dont you think if Mr: S. should be generally beloved our people would be willing to help him, to some extent "commence housekeeping"? I have given such encouragement, let me have (by his request) your ideas upon it by Saturday morn's mail, if possible. -
I cannot well write more now, time, time is [...] you know not how much my mind is relieved if you knew Mr. S. as well as I, you would rejoice - Mr. Hogue [?] thinks I could not have obtained a better man - Lincoln thinks him the very best, that I have the opinion of others to the same point I am more than satisfied. -
Now that this matter is so far arranged, we must be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. Mr. S. will not remain unless there is a good degree of unanimity, we may be ok - a tiger in some cases to manage somewhat, but I hope all will work together for good. Mr. Corbitt will of course close his labors next sabbath - It will happen very well for Mr. S. to begin with the year, he will be at your annual meeting for fasting and program. -
He will come on some time next week, I should like to come to[o], perhaps I may at his ordination.
I am glad your lectures are likely to succeed. Will Mr. O. Mason deliver one. -
Remember to write - very kind regards to the members of your family
Truly yours
Geo. B. PeckFriday morn. - To my utter astonishment, I found this, lying on my table, how I omitted to put it in the office I cannot tell, I am very sorry, but "what's done can't be helped" You will now write so I can hear by Monday morning's mail. unless you get it to night, when by return mail. - Mary Ann is well. -
"a merry christmas"