My attempt, with the help of Google. I'm not great at the biblical style language used in places here
DOWLAIS
This week falls to me the sadness of recording the story of the death and burial of an old friend of mine whom I liked very much, namely John Thomas (Welsh Harp) of this place. He was the son of Mr Isaac Thomas, formerly of Cwmcynach, parish of Abergwesin, Llanfihangel (who lives in Hirwain, and is respected by all and a very devout Baptist). However, the deceased came here from the Llanwrtyd and Llangamarch area about nine years ago. He was at that time a young, tall, good-looking man and in excellent health, having spent his early life here in a farmhouse in the healthy plains of the Wrtyd. His main love was to be in the fresh air. But despite his age and health, he came into contact with an old and deceitful enemy, namely tuberculosis. He gradually deteriorated until a few months ago when he was confined to his bed. He struggled for several months until Tuesday night, September 17, when he died aged 42. I liked him very much for his honesty. He was always very open and sincere. He was like an arrow in his integrity, like his physique. he did not possess one iota of India Rubber. I spent a lot of time in his company. I had many discussion with him on different topics about the journey to the other side. He told me a few days before his death that he was not afraid to die, that his conscience was completely calm with a view to facing the hills of Jerusalem, that he had tried to be honest. However, he died on the night mentioned at 11pm.
The following Saturday, his mortal remains was escorted to the new Pant cemetery, near Dowlais, to lie, together with two of his small children, who were buried a short time ago.
A crowd came together to escort him, and he had a very princely funeral. Many relatives came from near and far to pay their last respects. The Reverend B. Davies, Moriah, Dowlais, officiated in a very solemn and purposeful manner having, together with Williams, Beulah, and Morgans, Caersalem, visited him many times when he was on his deathbed. He left behind a beloved wife and three children to mourn.
His wife was a very suitable companion for him, especially gentle and caring of him, especially so when on his deathbed. If tenderness, care, and serving him, the medical power of Merthyr and Dowlais, the luxuries of this world could save a life, the deceased would be alive now. There is now only to say goodbye for a moment; and as a friend sang to me,
"Peace now for him to unite
Until Saturday of the many days [
]
When his Keeper comes to wake him
On the morning of the great resurrection.
When the whole family is gathered
The children of the great affliction are united,
To Jerusalem above to sing
Forever in the concert of the son of Man"
He kept a harp during the troublesome times. He loved to sing, and may he possess an eternal decaying harp. May God protect his beloved wife and his children who are left behind him.
Peace to his very beloved dust,
For a small moment I know.
I am his old friend, MENEVIUS.
