On March 10 he wrote to Brownson that he was going to give up business totally and finally, and asked his Advice about a course of study "for the field of the Church," not having yet fully settled as to whether it should be "the Roman or the Anglican." Upon his determination to withdraw from the secular affairs of life he experienced "such peace, calmness, and deep, settled strength and confidence" as never before.

"I feel the presence of God," he writes, "wherever I am.

I would kneel and praise God in all places.

In His presence I walk and feel His breath encompass me.

My soul is borne up by His presence and my heart is filled by His influence.