XXXIX.

To the old Soldiers, Invalids, who are creeping into winter quarters, the Doctor wishes grace, mercy, and peace.

BELOVED,

IT is written in our laws, that there was a commandment which went forth from the King of kings and Lord of lords 1800 years ago, that the poor, the halt, the lame, and the blind, were to be invited, compelled, yea brought in, to be present, and to be guests at the marriage supper of the Lamb. This command has never been recalled; this law has never been repealed; but stands in full force to this day, like the laws of the Medes and Persians, which alter not. It is also appointed and decreed, by an unalterable statute, that all old soldiers, or invalids, who have been engaged on the Lord's side against the world, the flesh, and the devil, that these, upon being dismissed from service, shall have a pension settled upon them, and shall be free from war for ever after. And be it further enacted, by the authority aforesaid, that in case these soldiers have continued, and appeared staunch to his Majesty's interest; and have not been finally overcome by the King's enemies, namely the world, the flesh, and the devil, so as to be drawn away from his Majesty's service, and to engage with the rebels against the King, and his forces, as aforesaid; it is decreed, ordained, and immutably fixed, by an eternal mandate, that such shall wear a crown in token of royalty, loyalty, and victory; and that they shall have a branch of palm in their hands, a token of eternal triumph, and shall shout among all the King's worthies, "Salvation to him that sits upon the throne, and to the Lamb for ever and ever." Long live the King, long live the King!

W. H. S. S.

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