Prima the first things, in reference to the middle and last things

Here is an end, and to you to whom I have dedicated this work, my conclusion is this: The year hath now run his round since I first came amongst you, and how the Lord hath wrought by me you your selves know best: for my part, if I did but know one poor soul amongst you truly converted by such a weak unworthy instrument, I would ever think my self most happy in that soul, and richly payed for my pains. I know it, neither Paul, nor Apollo can do this, except God give the increase: howsoever, I must tell you, with Paul, my desires have been this way, I have since my coming travelled of you, and travelled again, that Christ might be formed in you. ¹And what's the issue? once could the Lord say, Shall I bring to the birth, ²and not cause to bring forth? and (to join issue with you) have I travelled of you in birth, and not one of you brought forth? the Lord forbid. I confess (beloved) I have received from you many kindnesses of love; now, for the Lords sake do me this one kindness more; give me at least one soul among you, that I may give it unto God: O what a kindness would you then do me! not all the wealth in your Town, nor all the increase of your state, nor all you have, or ever shall have, would do me so much good in the day of my Lord Jesus, as this one boon I ask: then could I say, Lord, I have not lost the fruits of my labour in this Town, see here the soul now shining in glory which I converted by thy power; see here the soul of such a one, and such a one which through thy grace, and my ministry were converted unto thee. If this were thus, why then (beloved) you would bless me for ever, ⟨p. 72⟩