Olney Hymns: In Three Books

Olney Hymns: In Three Books

Newton, John and William Cowper

London: Wilkins, 1783

Internet Archive

1783

George Eliot to Maria Lewes, 27 February 1839. “Of course you know that sweet one of Cowper's in the Olney hymns beginning "Tis my happiness below." I think there are few who know much of mental conflict that would not choose external trial in preference to it; and they are seldom united, for God generally makes up to His people for the loss of earthly comforts by an increased grant of joy and peace in believing. I have very little title to take on me the office of a comforter, for all my draughts have been from shallow waters, but I trust I have not felt an undue confidence in myself while writing if I have appeared to do so. I should at any time be glad to hear from you, but do not coerce your feelings in order to gratify mine as I shall have many ways of accounting for your silence without surprise. I have written in great haste, but I need not apologize to a friend. All that belong to me are I am thankful to tell you well. I hope your health is not worse than usual. I conjecture from all I have heard that there will be another union with which you are not wholly unconnected soon. Believe me with much affection, Your sincere Friend[,] Mary Ann Evans” GEL 1: 17 

Newton, John and William Cowper, Olney Hymns: In Three Books, George Eliot's Reading, George Eliot Archive, edited by Beverley Park Rilett. https://GeorgeEliotArchive.org, Accessed September 7, 2026. https://www.georgeeliotarchive.org/items/show/57053

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