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so unworthy. And whilst it is with infinite regret and heart-felt sorrow that I surrender my beloved post with its glorious and far-reaching prospects, yet I hasten to seize the opportunity of showing to each comrade in our ranks an example of the same cheerful, prompt and willing reliance upon God and our leaders and ready-for-anything spirit, which have made our Army what it is to day.

And now words fail me to express my appreciation of the sympathy and assistance on your part which have helped to make possible the glorious advances which God has graciously granted to us during the eight and a half years of my command. From the bottom of my heart I thank you for it all.

I am deeply conscious of having served America but imperfectly, especially since that beautiful spirit - the Consul - left my side.

This vast and fruitful field has indeed required and deserved abler talents than any which I could lay at its feet. For every imperfection in that service I would crave your indulgence and your prayers, that from even the failures of the past I may learn to do a better and worthier best in the future.

I shall be sending you information a little later concerning the new arrangements which have been planned for the welfare and progress of our American work.

I feel sure that they will satisfy you that not only have ample provisions been made for the preservation of our highest interests, but that a still more rapid and victorious advance awaits us than any which we have yet witnessed, either in this or other lands. I am sure that you will extend to whoever may be intrusted with this important command the same sympathy and support which have been so helpful to myself.

Praying that the Lord may abundantly bless and reward you for your kind interest in our work.

Very truly yours,

Frederick Booth Tucker