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To say that
the book is not worthy of its subject is to anticipate the verdict of
every reader who knew and loved the great Superintendent. But to portray
in fitting words his service and his worth, is beyond the pen of living
man.
The book is my best attempt to
set him forth as he was among
us; not to praise him—he needs no praise-—not to tell of his character nor
to describe his work, but to show him living, loving, toiling, suffering,
as we saw him. It is my humble hope that this, in some measure at least,
I have achieved.
I gratefully acknowledge the
kindness of his family, of brethren in the ministry, of friends, and
especially of conveners of committees and officials of Presbyteries and
other Church courts, who have placed their correspondence at my disposal,
and who have assisted much with reminiscences and appreciations.
Especially and gladly do I record my debt to
Mrs.
H. J. Parker, of Winnipeg, for invaluable aid in arranging and classifying
material, for suggestion and criticism, for reading of manuscript and
proof, and for help in many ways. And all the more gladly do I acknowledge
her aid, that I know it was freely given in loving and grateful tribute to
him whose life-story was being recorded.
The book is sent forth in the hope
that it may inspire my brethren
in the ministry with something of that spirit of devotion, so free of
taint of sell that made Dr. Robertson
what he was, and that it may, perhaps, determine some young man who has
not yet made choice of his career, to give his life to his country and his
God in this great service which commanded the life of
this
great Canadian.
CHARLES W. GORDON
Winnipeg, November, 1908. |
