The Most Romantic Letter in the World

Letter to Mr. Hasseltine Asking for His Daughter's Hand in Marriage 

by Adoniram Judson

"Young Judson, before he had resolved to be a missionary, had made up his mind to the sufferings and privations which he well knew were in store for him. He thus wrote to Mr. Hasseltine, of Bradford, when asking for his daughter's hand:"

"I have now to ask whether you can consent to part with your daughter early next spring, to see her no more in this world? Whether you can consent to her departure to a heathen land, and her subjection to the hardships and sufferings of a missionary life? Whether you can consent to her exposure to the dangers of the ocean; to the fatal influence of the southern climate of India; to every kind of want and distress; to degradation, insult, persecution, and perhaps a violent death? Can you consent to all this, for the sake of Him who left His heavenly home and died for her and for you; for the sake of perishing, immortal souls; for the sake of Zion and the glory of God? Can you consent to all this, in hope of soon meeting your daughter in the world of glory, with a crown of righteousness brightened by the acclamations of praise which shall redound to her Saviour from heathens saved, through her means, from eternal woe and despair?"

Sigh... This has to be the most romantic letter of all time, even though it's not addressed to the lady. It shows the man's adoration and respect for the father, telling the truth without holding back. Wow. I'm just blown away. I pray that there are still guys like this out there.

Blessings!

Christa :)