I used every precaution; as I told the patient afterwards, the only omission I could think of was that I had not boiled or roasted myself....

I looked carefully for these before each operation.

I regret two things in the case: (1) that the last operation was not done two or three months before when General Booth was in better health; (2) that it was not postponed for another month, in which case I should not have done it, for looking back on the whole history I feel certain that he was not in his best condition on May 23rd when the operation was performed." The General's own response when he was gently informed that there was no hope of his seeing objects any more was:-- "Well, the Lord's Will be done.

If it is to be so I have but to bow my head and accept it." He subsequently remarked that as he had served God and the people with his eyes he must now try to serve without them.

He continued to dictate letters, and even to write occasionally as he had been accustomed to do, with the help of his secretaries, and a frame that had been prepared for the purpose.