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71. Letters from a Father to his Son
BY JOHN WINTHROP (1622)[242]
"To my beloved son, John Winthrop, at the College in Dublin.
Dear Son:
Though I have received no letters from you yet, I cannot let any chance pass without some expression of my fatherly affection, and care for your welfare. Because of this affection, I am content to have you absent from me at so great a distance, for I know that God's power and care are alike in all places. And as for my own comfort, it shall be in your success and well-doing wherever you may be.
Because I cannot so often put you in mind of those things which concern your good, as if you were nearer to me, you must take the more care to think about those teachings which I give you. Try, by all means, to keep in your heart the fear of God. And let not the awful profaneness and contempt of ungodly men lessen the respectful and great regard for the Great King, which is in your heart.
But remember still, that the time is at hand when they shall call the mountains to hide them from the face of Him whom now they slight and pay no attention to.
When you write back, let me know about the state of things at your college. Tell me how you like it. And remember my love to your teacher. Your grandfather, grandmother, and mother, send blessings to you.
Your brothers and sisters are in health, I thank God. The Lord in mercy, fill your heart with his goodness. May he keep you from all evil.
Your loving father,
JOHN WINTHROP.
GROTON, Aug. 6, 1622.
My Beloved Son,
I pray the Lord to bless thee with goodness and peace. I give him thanks for thy welfare. I hope, through his goodness, that this sickness which is now upon thee will turn to thy health. I received two letters from you, written, I see, in haste. But they were welcome to me and the rest, to you grandmother and mother.
They all are glad that you like the college. I sent you two letters a good while ago. I hope they will reach you, though they may be long in going. The further you are from me, the more careful I am of your welfare, both in body and soul. The best way to both of these lies in your own trying.
Your friends may pray for you and advise you; but your own faithfulness and watchfulness mast be added to make you blessed. God has given you a
Remember that your happiness is not in food, drink, and such things, but in the favor of God for your part in a better life. I send you the books you wrote for. I shall also send you some cloth for a gown and suit.
For a study gown, you would better buy some coarse Irish cloth. I shall, if God is willing, write to you again soon. Your grandfather and grandmother will write to you also. Your mother sends you her blessings.
We are all in health, I thank God. Remember my love to your good teacher. The Lord in mercy bless and keep you, and direct and prosper your study.
Your loving father,
JOHN WINTHROP.
GROTON, Aug. 31, 1622.
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