In 1841 the following letter appeared in the Baptist Magazine
ON DR. CARSON'S WORK ON BAPTISM
To the Editor of the Baptist Magazine
My Dear Sir,—I am truly delighted with the present movement to secure the republication of Dr. Carson's work on baptism, and am also much pleased with the idea that the book in point of price will be so moderate as to be placed within the reach of the humble in circumstances in our congregations. Inferring the paramount claims of the projected improved second edition, from the deservedly high merits of the first, from the stern integrity of the worthy author, from his recent publications on the same subject, and from his pre-eminent learning, it would be presumption, if not sheer folly, to utter a syllable in its commendation. Let it speak for itself: it needs not the praise of any.
But what is requisite is, for our ministers to make its value known to their people, and then call on them to immediately enrol their names in the list of subscribers now getting up for the work. Let them but duly weigh the importance of the subject intended to be set forth, not merely to themselves, their children, and their connexions, but likewise to our missionaries and missionary cause in both the east and the west; and we presume they will be up and doing. Indeed every thing in this matter depends on the ministers. Let them but slightly exert their influence, and a splendid list of subscribers will be obtained. And, as the issuing out of the book, or otherwise, will be decided by the number of subscribers, let us each and all do what we can. I know, from what I have already experienced within my own humble and limited sphere, that our people will promptly and cheerfully do their duty, if their pastors will only lead the way, and invite them to the accomplishment of it. But if they be either dumb
or half-hearted, we shall not gain the desired prize.
My object in this letter is particularly to importune my Welsh brethren to come forward on the present occasion. Their noble zeal for the grand ordinance of Christian immersion, and against infant sprinkling, is well known to be eminently fervid. I feel gratified, therefore, in calling their earliest attention to Dr. Carson's work on baptism, and in most respectfully and fraternally beseeching them to seize the opportunity now afforded them to promote that cause which deeply engages their best feelings.
I am, my dear Sir,
Yours very fraternally,
Micah Thomas. Abergavenny, June 18.
