*Working on a short biography of John W. Stevenson, here is an extend quote from the end of the book:* Fifty years of missionary service, such as Mr. Stevenson lived, was no small test. It was more than enough to refine both the man and his work, and it is no exaggeration to say, "What survives is gold." Few have experienced greater loneliness and separation from loved ones than he, yet he never allowed these hardships to turn him from what he knew to be his duty. After his first furlough, his life became largely solitary, as family responsibilities kept Mrs. Stevenson in the home country from that time onward. In 1891, one of his daughters traveled to China to be his companion, but in a mysterious providence, he soon had to take her back home due to severe illness. This was a deep sorrow, as he had eagerly anticipated the joy of her presence and fellowship. The later deaths of both his sons and two of his daughters—after years of separation—only added to his loneliness. Though deeply affectionate as a husband and father, he bore these losses with steadfast faith, pressing on in his calling.