Martyrs Mirror 1032FIVE LETTERS OF CLEMENT HENDRICKSS, SENT FROM HIS PRISON IN AMSTERDAM, WHERE HE LAID DOWN HIS LIFE FOR THE KNOWL; EDGE OF THE TRUTH; TOGETHER WITH JAN KRIJNSS AND CORNELIS JANSS MENTIONED ABOVE First letter, sent to one o f his acquaintances, named Grietgen Dircks

Know, dear Grietgen Dircks, that I am still of good courage in the flesh, and that my mind is still unchanged and fixed to fear the Lord, the Lord be thanked; I can never thank the Lord enough for it.

I sometimes am much grieved that I unworthy one have at times grieved you so much. I can easily imagine that many are grieved on my account, as I have heard, that it is said that I have apostatized from my faith, which is not true, the Lord be praised. So far they have asked me only simple questions; if they would only not ask more closely, this I sincerely desire; but I fear that I already am where I must stay. The Lord grant unto me what is for my salvation. I trust in Him, that He will give me strength, that I may continue to His praise, and to the salvation of my soul. Our other three brethren have already fought the fight; if it is the Lord's will, He may also take me home. On Friday I yet knew nothing to the contrary, but that I should also offer up my sacrifice; and my mind was quite ready for it, the Lord be thanked; I can never thank Him enough, that He so faithfully succors me. I trust only in Him, and he that trusts in Him shall not be ashamed; for He does not forsake His own who trust in Him alone. Be so kind and greet all the brethren very much in my name, and tell them to pray for me, that the Lord would strengthen me unto my last extremity; for the prayer of the faithful and righteous avails much; this is my sincere request. Acts 12:5 , 12 ; James 5:16 . Herewith I will commend you to the Lord, if we should see each other no more with the eyes of the flesh; take this in good part, and tell my sister what I have written you; for she is as yet under the impression that I have apostatized from my faith the Lord is the discerner of all hearts. Acts 1:24 .

By me Clement Hendrickss, unworthy prisoner in the Lord.