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by Fanny J. Crosby (Author), John R. Clements (Author)
The digital copies of this book are available for free at First Fruits website.
place.asburyseminary.edu/firstfruits
INTRODUCTION
A pleasant task is fulfilled, and lo! a little volume rich in its prolific stores comes forth to reward our hopes, and realize our anticipations. Love is its key-note and love the predominant principle in the hearts of those who were instrumental in its preparation and arrangement.
Every word which it contains is like a jewel of inestimable worth, and every page like the placid waters of a silver stream bursting from a hidden spring in a towering rock, and sparkling amid the unclouded splendor of the midday sun. In its object this little book is as pure and unselfish as the character it represents, and from whom originated the bright, pithy, and unique sayings, caught as they fell from the lips that uttered them, and transmitted without the slightest change in their construction, to beautify and adorn the pages that will yet be hailed with acclamations of joy by every Christian Endeavorer.
This work is intended as an expression of our esteem, veneration, and loyal affection for one whose entire life has been devoted to the cause and kingdom of our Lord and Master, and to the welfare of immortal souls, -one whom we sometimes designate by the endearing name of "Father Clark."
No language can portray his tender solicitude for his adopted children. He is not only the founder of our Society, but from an earthly standpoint he is our watchword and guiding star, leading us surely and steadily nearer to the great Author of our being, and to the source from whence cometh every good and perfect gift. It is not wrong to assert that in the spirit world there are thousands that owe their conversion to his influence and prayers. Even now as we write, he is abroad, bearing the gospel banner, telling the wondrous story of the cross, and proclaiming the message of redemption to the souls that are perishing.
TO OUR BELOVED FRIEND AND SPIRITUAL GUIDE Rev. FRANCIS E. CLARK, D.D.
he following lines are most cordially and sincerely dedicated.
Faithful teacher, we are learning How the Christian race to run; Learning by thine own example, And the victories thou hast won.
There's a crown of stars that waits thee In the palace of the King, And a song of grace and glory That forever thou wilt sing. For the King himself will lead thee To the banquet of his love, And present thee pure and spotless At his Father's throne above.
FANNY J. CROSBY.
Bridgeport, Conn., April, 1904.
