It is not the fear of possible infection. That seems a little thing when compared with the pain, the pity, and the disgust of the visitor’s surroundings, and the atmosphere of affliction, disease, and physical disgrace in which he breathes. I do not think I am a man more than usually timid; but I never recall the days and nights I spent upon that island promontory (eight days and seven nights), without heartfelt thankfulness that I am somewhere else.



.....



The man who did what Damien did is my father ... and the father of all who love goodness: and he was your father too, if God had given you the grace to see it.



Robert Louis Stevenson, writing on the character, life and ministry of Blessed Damien of Molokai, who died on this date in 1889.