"I do not understand a missionary life: I have never studied
missionary labours."
"There I, humble as I am, can give you the aid you want: I can
set you your task from hour to hour; stand by you always; help you
from moment to moment. This I could do in the beginning: soon
(for I know your powers) you would be as strong and apt as myself,
and would not require my help."
"But my powers -- where are they for this undertaking? I do not
feel them. Nothing speaks or stirs in me while you talk. I am
sensible of no light kindling -- no life quickening -- no voice
counselling or cheering. Oh, I wish I could make you see how much
my mind is at this moment like a rayless dungeon, with one shrinking
fear fettered in its depths -- the fear of being persuaded by you
to attempt what I cannot accomplish!"
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