Return from Europe. 177 



may better suit the rich and the gay, but for those 

 whose circumstances are moderate, and whose 

 pleasures are rational, Edinburgh must be far pref- 

 erable as a place of residence. The Audubons' 

 house is delightfully located and exceedingly con- 

 venient. 



We are now looking, with the greatest anxiety, for 

 the arrival of father; the last few weeks have seemed 

 like so many months. Is it not astonishing how 

 slowly time creeps on, when we have pleasure in 

 prospect. 



Although the last accounts from our dear father, 

 are not very encouraging, yet our hope is, that on 

 his return to us, the rest and the quiet of home, may 

 do much toward restoring him to perfect health. 

 My earnest prayer is, that he may regain his wonted 

 strength and activity, and long be spared to us ; for 

 we have learned from sad experience, how essential 

 his presence is to our happiness. 



Thursday 1 2th : We received letters from father 

 to-day, which give more encouragement with regard 

 to his health. He was to sail in the "America," 

 which is dailv expected ***** 



M. E. B. 



After an absence of eight months from America, 

 Dr. Bachman reached home January, 1839. 



The joy of family and flock, at his return, was not 

 without alloy. They were disappointed to find his 

 health still very feeble. The congregation proposed 

 that an assistant should be secured. At the recom- 

 mendation of the Rev. Dr. Mayer, the Rev. William 

 N. Smith was engaged by the congregation of St. 

 John's as assistant minister ; and for several years, 

 he rendered acceptable service. 



