Untitled article by S. W. HICKOK

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Third-day, August 6, 1867

A DRAUGHT FROM THE FOUNTAIN.

By S. W. HICKOK

“But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst. But the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” John iv, 14.

Not long since I was picking berries in the woods. It was a sultry afternoon, the sun was low, and I applied myself diligently to the work. At length my pail was filled, my task complete. Being somewhat exhausted I said to myself, Could I but slake my thirst at some cool fountain of water, I should feel much refreshed. But as no such opportunity was afforded, my mind rested on those comforting words of Jesus, above quoted. What! thought I, drink and never thirst? Precious promise! cheering indeed to fainting mortals on this dreary waste! And may I, unworthy I, be permitted this exalted privilege? If so, then I must partake.

Alone within the shady wood I knelt I drank, and, oh, how good! Content not with a scanty store, My soul, though blessed, still longed for more.

Surely, thought I, no earthly fountain can afford such comfort. I arose to my feet. Heaven seemed near. Everything around looked lovely and I almost fancied myself in the better land. My thirst was gone. My soul felt refreshed and happy, and involuntarily I cried,

Why should I thirst, why should I sigh, With such a fountain ever nigh!

I wended my way homeward with a light step and a glad heart, ever and anon comforting myself with the hope of another draught from that blessed fountain.

S. W. HICKOK.

Dodge Co. Minn., July 10, 1867.