Bro. Smith : The following brief account of the martyr Algerius, I copy from Fox's book of Martyrs, thinking the sweet spirit of true christianity breathed in his epistles may be of benefit, if you think best to give it a place in the Review.
B. G.
"About the same period Algerius a learned and accomplished student in the university of Padua embraced the reformed religion and was zealous in the conversion of others. For these proceedings he was accused of heresy to the pope, and being apprehended was committed to the prison at Venice where he wrote to his converts at Padua the following celebrated and beautiful epistle.
Dear Friends: I cannot omit this opportunity of letting you know the sincere pleasure I feel in my confinement; to suffer for Christ is delectable indeed; to undergo a little transitory pain in this world for his sake is cheaply purchasing a reversion of eternal glory in a life that is everlasting.
Hence I have found honey in the entrails of a lion; a paradise in a prison; tranquility in the house of sorrow; where others weep I rejoice, where others tremble and faint I find strength and courage. The Almighty alone confers these favors on me. Be his the glory and the praise.
How different do I find myself from what I was before I embraced the truth in its purity. I was then dark, doubtful and in dread; I am now enlightened, certain, and full of joy. He that was far from me is present with me. He comforts my spirit, heals my grief, strengthens my mind, refreshes my heart, and fortifies my soul.
Learn therefore how merciful and amiable the Lord is who supports his servants under temptations; expels their sorrows, lightens their afflictions, and even visits them with his glorious presence in the gloom of a dismal dungeon.
Your sincere friend,
ALGERIUS.
The pope being informed of Algerius' great learning and abilities sent for him to Rome and tried by every means to win him to his purpose. But finding his endeavors hopeless he ordered him to be burnt.