Martyrs Mirror 828"Dus weest bedacht, ende op hem wacht; Want by sal komen als een dief in der nacht."*

For we had not expected them yet, and had packed our things, intending to depart soon; but the Lord ordered it otherwise, praised be He forever. As they were busily engaged in plundering, I would fain have sung: Noyt meerder vreught in my en was, dan nu is in desen tiiden.t But I restrained myself from singing, because I thought that many more trials were awaiting me yet; but the Lord be praised, who does not suffer us to be ashamed. Ps. 25:3 . They began to upbraid us much concerning Munster and Amsterdam; but I told them that I was innocent in.the matter, and that it was for the truth that we suffered. I also said: "I am not yet thirty three years old; how then could I have.been there?" Some railed, others

* Take heed therefore and watch for Him; for He shall come as a thief in the night.

** I never had greater joy than at this present time.

lamented: but I said: "Weep not for us, but weep for yourselves,. and for your children." Methinks, we could well have said with David: "Though I were compassed about by ten thousands of people, who should come upon me, I should not fear them; yea, they have compassed me about; they compass me about like bees, but in the name of the Lord I will destroy them." Psalm 3:6 ; 118:12 .

My dear brethren, we.do not say this to boast but for joy, and to thank God for the great power and strength which He grants us; and for the joy of all lovers for the truth, who may hear this. Pray for us that we may continue steadfast unto the end. We beg you to receive our few lines in good part. The 15th day of our imprisonment, and the 9th of May. My wife and I salute you much, and all with whom we are acquainted, or who may inquire after us.