LETTERS. (continued 6)

Yours most affectionately and eternally in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXIX.

To Mr. J―― W――.

Philadelphia, Nov. 9, 1740.

Dear and honoured Sir,

I Received your’s, dated March 11, this afternoon. Oh that we were of one mind: for I am yet persuaded you greatly err. You have set a mark you will never arrive at, till you come to glory. I think few enjoy such continued manifestations of God’s presence as I do, and have done, for some years; but I dare not pretend to say I shall be absolutely perfect. O, dear Sir, many of God’s children are grieved at your principles; O that God may give you a sight of his free, sovereign, and electing love! But no more of this: why will you compel me to write thus? why will you dispute? I am willing to go with you to prison, and to death; but I am not willing to oppose you. My heart is now much affected: indeed I love and honour you. Dear, dear Sir, study the covenant of grace, that you may be consistent with yourself: hasten O Lord, the blessed time! I fancy I shall embark for England about Spring; but am not yet determined. God shews me his goodness plenteously every day. I dwell in Christ, and Christ in me: glory be to sovereign grace. I seem to have a new body, and the Lord Jesus greatly enriches my soul. O I am a poor sinner! but our Lord frequently manifests himself in such a manner, that it throws me into an agony which my body is almost too weak to bear. Honoured Sir, adieu. O build up, but do not lead into error, the souls once committed to the charge of

Your affectionate, unworthy brother and servant, in the loving Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXX.

To Mr. H―― H――, in Wales.

Philadelphia, Nov. 9, 1740.

My very dear Brother H――,

I Wrote to you from Boston. Your letter, written near a twelvemonth ago, came to my hand this afternoon. My soul is knit to you: we both speak and think the same things. The Lord be with your spirit. Jesus manifests forth his glory daily in these parts. Though I am such a vile, worthless, ungrateful wretch, yet the Lord fills me out of his divine fulness day by day. His word is like a fire, and a hammer: last week I saw many quite struck down. Our Lord is working upon little children. America, ere long, will be famous for christians. Surely the candlestick will shortly be removed from England. Little did I think, when Mr. E―― J―― wrote, that I should preach in all the chief places of America: but that is now done; glory be to rich, free, and sovereign grace! Perhaps about Spring I may embark for my native country: the Lord vouchsafe us a happy meeting. O Wales, thou art dear to my soul! My love to all the brethren. Dear brother H――, I pray God you may prosper, even as your soul prospers. Expect another journal shortly: but wait till we come to glory, fully to see and hear what God hath done for

Your affectionate brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXXI.

To his Excellency Jonathan Belcher, Esq., in Boston.

Philadelphia, Nov. 9, 1740.

THOUGH late, I now snatch a few moments to send your excellency my acknowledgments for all honours received at Boston: they are much upon my heart. I pray God to reward your excellency a thousand-fold.

Great things hath the glorious Emmanuel done for me and his people on the way: the word has been attended with much power. Surely our Lord intends to set America in a flame. This week Mr. G―― T―― purposes to set out for Boston, in order to blow up the divine fire lately kindled there. I recommend him to your excellency as a solid, judicious, and zealous minister of the Lord Jesus Christ: he will be ready to preach daily: I suppose his brethren will readily open their doors: may the Lord at the same time open the people’s hearts, that they may diligently attend to the things that shall be spoken. Dear Mr. R―― grows in grace: I left him at Brunswick, full of gratitude for his late journey. I am persuaded it was of God. I hope he will be instrumental in quickening both ministers and people. He is worthy of your excellency’s particular regard: under God he may need it. I expect he will soon be reviled and persecuted for his blessed Master’s sake: may the Lord enable him to rejoice and be exceeding glad. Dear Sir, the welfare of dear Boston people, especially the welfare of your own soul, lies upon me night and day. I remember your tears: I remember your excellency’s words, “Mr. Whitefield, pray that I may hunger and thirst after righteousness.” O how did these words rejoice me! for I thought your excellency wanted a more clear view of your own vileness, and of the all-sufficiency of Jesus Christ; I mean a more clear, experimental view: for what is all head-knowledge without that of the heart? it only settles people more upon their lees. May God give you to see and to follow the simplicity of the blessed Jesus. Whilst you are in the world, may you not be of it: may you be dead to magnificence, and alive to nothing but what leads you directly to your God.

Honoured Sir, I make no apology for this freedom: your excellency bid me not spare rulers; no, not the chief of them. Indeed I long after your salvation; O that I could do any thing to promote it! If my prayers, or any thing within my power may be instrumental thereunto, your excellency may command, honoured Sir,

Your Excellency’s obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXXII.

To Mr. M――, at London.

Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1740.

My dear Brother,

STILL my Lord shews me greater things. At New-York the Holy Ghost came down like a mighty rushing wind. At Baskenridge still a greater awakening among young and old. One that received Christ cried out, “He is come! He is come!” &c. The poor creature was wrapped up in the Lord Jesus: and both there and at New-York my soul was taken almost out of the body. At Newark the Lord worked wonderfully amongst some young men; and here at Philadelphia the word runs very swiftly. This afternoon, how beautiful did the Lord appear in his sanctuary! I would cry out, “How amiable are thy dwellings, thou Lord of hosts!” In several places, almost as large as Northampton, are many faithful labourers. We all think and speak the same things: O that it was so at London! The Lord enables me to confute error wherever I see it. Pray for me, that I may be made faithful to my Lord and Master: he is dearer to me every day: he will have mercy, because he will have mercy. See brother L――’s letter. Another journal comes out shortly. My hearty love to all. Stand fast in the faith: quit yourselves like men: be strong. Above all, give thanks to God; and pray in behalf of, dear Mr. M――,

Your most affectionate brother and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXXIII.

To Mr. G―― L――.

Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1740.

Dear Brother L――,

I Wrote to you last week from New-York. You may give friends this brief account of me: On last Saturday evening I arrived at this place, having preached at Staten Island, Newark, Baskenridge, New Brunswick, and Trenton, in my way hither from New York. A wonderful presence of God was observable at New-York, Baskenridge, and Newark. I preached here twice yesterday, and also to-day, in a large house built by the people since I was here last. It is an hundred feet long, and seventy feet wide; and is intended for a school, as well as a place for public worship. The walls are brick, and the roof is now almost ready to be put up. God hath remarkably appeared in the carrying on the building; and the holy spirit hath sweetly moved on the hearers souls every time I preached in it. I intend, God willing, to stay here this, and to embark for Georgia the latter end of next week; and propose, God willing, to return to England for a short time, in the Spring.

The Lord highly favours me; I am more sick of myself, and more in love with Christ daily: he is a dear, dear Master: Oh that all would love him with all their hearts! Adieu: it is late. The Lord be with your spirit.

Your affectionate friend, brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXXIV.

To the Rev. Mr. D――, at New Brunswick.

Salem, Nov. 20, 1740.

My very dear Brother,

EXCESS of business, not a want of love, prevented my writing to you from Philadelphia. I feel that I love you in the bowels of the dear Jesus, our ever blessed and glorious Emmanuel: he hath done great things for me since you left us. Yesterday at Cohansie the spirit of the Lord moved over the whole congregation: what reason have we to be thankful for the great things we both see and hear! My dear brother, indeed I desire to lie in the dust. O how good is my Lord to me! thoughts cannot conceive, or words express it! I long to be in glory, that I may praise him as I would. I rejoice to hear that the Lord is with you. Shortly, I believe, you will evangelize. All friends kindly salute you. Adieu. In great haste, I am

Your very affectionate, though unworthy brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXXV.

To Mr. J―― H――.

Bohemia, (Maryland) Nov. 24, 1740.

My very dear Brother,

I Rejoice to hear that you are married: I salute your wife and my sister in Christ: may you love one another, as Christ and his church. I have lately conversed closely with P―― B――: alas! we differ widely in many respects; therefore, to avoid disputation and jealousies on both sides, it is best to carry on the work of God apart. The divisions among the brethren sometimes grieve, but do not surprize me. How can it be otherwise, when teachers do not think and speak the same things? God grant we may keep up a cordial undissembled love towards each other, notwithstanding our different opinions. O how do I long for heaven! Surely, there will be no divisions, no strife there, but who shall sing with most affection to the Lamb that sitteth upon the throne. Dear James, there I hope to meet thee; for the dear Jesus, I believe, hath locked thee fast in his almighty arms. Lean thou on his sacred bosom night and day; keep close to him, and be what I long to be, a little child. Adieu. I am ready to weep tears of love. My dear brother, I should be glad to wash any of the brethren’s feet: indeed I am now willing to be the servant of all. The more the Lord honours me, the more I feel my unworthiness. I am sometimes sick of love, and often, often sick of self. O that God should have mercy on such a sinner! Help me, dear James, to praise my Saviour. A glorious church is raising in America. The Lord mightily reveals his arm. It would please you to see his outgoings, his stately steps in the great congregation. I only want fellow-labourers. I look to Jesus for this, and for every thing. I desire you to print nothing against your conscience: only do not immediately censure every thing that may not seem clear to you: our Lord may guide me, even into things which as yet you may not see into. The day of judgment will discover all. Adieu.

Ever, ever yours in our blessed Emmanuel,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXXVI.

To the Rev. Mr. J. W.

Bohemia (Maryland) Nov. 24, 1740.

Dear and Hon. Sir,

LAST night brother G―― brought me your two kind letters. O that there may be harmony, and very intimate union between us! Yet it cannot be, since you hold universal Redemption. But no more of this. Perhaps, in Spring, we may see each other face to face. This evening, God willing, I propose to embark for Georgia. Wonderful things our Lord brings to pass, in these parts, every day. Here is a close opposition from some of the Presbyterian Clergy. The seed of the serpent is the same in all, of whatever communion. I expect much more opposition every hour. The devil rages in London. He begins now to triumph indeed. The children of God are disunited among themselves. The king of the church shall yet over-rule all things for good. My dear brother, for Christ’s sake avoid all disputation. Do not oblige me to preach against you; I had rather die. Be gentle towards the ――. They will get great advantage over you, if they discover any irregular warmth in your temper. I cannot for my soul unite with the Moravian Brethren. Honoured Sir, Adieu!

Yours eternally in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXXVII.

Saint George’s (Pensylvania) Nov. 24, 1740.

Dear Brother T――,

GOD has revived his own work in Philadelphia. His glory filled the great house. The affairs belonging thereto, I believe, are well settled. We have had precious times at Cohansi, Salem, Fogs-mannor, Nottingham, Whiteclay, Creek and Bohemia. Brother G―― is come from England very opportunely. Brother S―― comes about Christmas. The brethren I think do grow, though sadly divided. But our Lord will order all for good.—Upon several accounts, I think it best to embark for England as soon as possible in the Spring. O pray for me, that I may not by any means grieve the children of God. I hope the weather is warm enough for you. I trust our Lord has warmed and filled your dear soul. Your brother Charles is with me. My dear fellow travellers salute you and our dear brother R――. My love to all that love the Lord Jesus. The war goes on bravely between Michael and the Dragon. Our dear Lord (O condescending love!) is wonderous kind to your poor, weak, unworthy brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXXVIII.

Reedy-Island, Nov. 26, 1740.

Dear Mr. F――,

I Thank you for your letter.—You may print my life, as you desire. God willing, I shall correct my two volumes of sermons, and send them the very first opportunity.—Pray write to me by every ship, that goes shortly to Charles-Town.――

I shall embark for England, God willing, about February.—I desire I may hear from you there also, as often as possible. I have prefaced Jenks, and Presumptuous sinners detected. Mr. Bradford has the last, because he said he was to print it. You may have it of him.—The Ornaments of the daughter of Sion, you may have hereafter. Dear Sir, Adieu. I do not despair of your seeing the reasonableness of christianity. Apply to God; be willing to do the divine will, and you shall know it. I have heard from Mr. S――; all is well. To-day several friends have taken leave of me at this place, waiting for a fair wind in order to embark for Georgia. I think I have been on shore 73 days, and have been enabled to travel upwards of 800 miles, and to preach 170 times, besides very frequent exhortations at private houses. I have collected, in goods and money, upwards of 700l. sterling, for the Orphan-house; blessed be God! Great and visible are the fruits of my late, as well as former feeble labours, and people in general seem more eager after the word than ever. O the love of God to

Your unworthy friend,

G. W.

LETTER CCXXXIX.

To Mr. N. in New-York.

Charles-Town, Dec. 10, 1740.

My very dear Brother,

IN eight days, the Lord brought us hither. We arrived last night, when the Redeemer vouchsafed so to fill me with his divine consolations, that I could scarce sleep. I have been preaching this morning on the fire that happened of late from these words, Isa. i. 9. “Except the Lord of Hosts had left unto us a very small remnant, we should have been as ♦Sodom, and we should have been like unto Gomorrah.” I am now determined to see England as soon as possible. I have had much of God’s presence in our passage hither from Philadelphia, and have many precious letters to send you. O follow me with your prayers. I leave Charles-Town, God willing, to-night, in order to hasten to their relief, and shall go in the same sloop which brought me here, to my beloved Georgia. As soon as possible, I will send you a long letter. In the mean while, accept of my love from, dear Mr. N――,

Your very affectionate friend and brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXL.

To Mr. G―― C――.

On board the Savannah for Georgia, Dec. 11, 1740.

Dear Brother C――,

YOUR late letters, especially that which you sent me by way of Charles-Town, made me smile.—I was glad to find that you had not so far thrown off all outward things, as to resolve not to write to any one; and I thought I knew the frame of your heart, as though I was within you. My dear, dear George C――, I love you tenderly in the bowels of Jesus Christ, and therefore would not have you be deceived. Alas, why do you pervert this text of scripture, “Be still, and know that I am the Lord,” as if it was designed to keep a christian from striving, or meant a stillness of body, or waiting upon God only in silence? The expression is taken out of the 46th Psalm, where God’s fury against the heathen is described in the most lively colours; and then lest his people should complain of the severity of his dispensations, God commands them to be still, “not to murmur or repine, knowing that he was the Lord, and might do what seemed him good.” Thus Tate and Brady in their translations explain it, and this is the true and genuine meaning of that sentence. It hath no reference to stillness in prayer, or stillness of body. Dear brother, I speak to you plainly, because I love you. I think I know what it is to wait upon the Lord in silence, and to feel the spirit of God making intercession for me with groanings which cannot be uttered. Often have I been at such times filled as it were with the fulness of God, and I do now daily carry on a communion with the most high God and the ever-blessed Jesus. But all this I fear is contrary to the false stillness, you and some others seem to have fallen into. I was just in the same case some years ago at Oxford, when I declined writing, reading, and such like exercises, because I would be still. The Lord convinced me; I pray he may also convince you of this delusion. Dear George, consider how contrary your maxim is to our Saviour’s. You say, “Be still.” He says, “Strive.” As in an agony, “Strive that you may enter in at the strait gate.” Indeed, my dear man, I pity you, knowing you have but a weak judgment, though a well-meaning heart. You once thought that you was born again; then, you found it was only an elapse of the Holy Ghost. You used to say, you wished you could believe from experience in the doctrine of election; now, you find as yet no evidence within yourself that you are a real christian. You take too much refuge, I fear, in the doctrine of universal redemption. It is the finest doctrine in the world to cause a soul to be falsely still, and to say Peace, Peace, when there is no peace. You seem to insist upon sinless perfection, and to think a man hath no real salvation till he literally cannot commit sin. From whose experience do you write this? Not from your own, dear George; for I much question, if ever your heart was truly broken or had a saving closure with Christ. You seem to mention Peter Bochler as an instance; but alas, though he has been washed in the blood of the Lamb, so as to be justified from all his sins, yet like me his feet want washing still, and will, till he bows down his head and gives up the ghost. I have conversed with him intimately. Take heed, brother, of having any thing too much in admiration, or of thinking you must necessarily find Christ at such and such a place. You have been at M――. I believe you have seen many dear children of God; but have you returned home with Christ in your heart? Your letters do not speak much improvement in the school of Christ. If God loves you, he will let you see the vanity of your present imaginations, and bring you to see that salvation is not of him that willeth, or of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy. Dear George, be not given to change; be not too fond of new things. “To the law and to the testimony,” and see what Christ and his apostles have spoken. I speak this out of love, and not in reference to myself. If God blesses another ministry to your soul, I rejoice, yea and will rejoice. But if I see you fall into errors, do not be angry if I tell you the truth. If you are, I will notwithstanding love and pray for you. That errors are crept in among you, I think is too plain: but I suspend my judgment till the Spring, when, God willing, I hope to be in London. In the mean while pray for me, that I may with joy bear to be deserted by those, who once were blessed and awakened by my ministry, and to whom I am a spiritual father, though they may have many instructors. Dear George, may the Lord be with you. He only knows how dear you are to my heart. It is near midnight; but it was much upon my heart to write you this letter. That God may sanctify it to your edification and comfort, is the hearty prayer of

Your affectionate friend, brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXLI.

To the Rev. Mr. C――.

Good-Hope (South-Carolina) Jan. 1, 1741.

Rev. and dear Sir,

I am now going to Charles-Town, in order to embark for England; the cloud of God’s providence seems to be moving that way; I have enjoyed much of the divine presence since I left Boston, and have had a comfortable Christmas with my dear family at Georgia. At my return, I found my Orphan-houshold removed from Savannah to Bethesda, and great improvements made during the time of my absence. The great house will be finished, God willing, so as to be habitable, in about two months. It would have been finished so far by this time, if the Spaniards had not taken a schooner loaded with bricks and other provisions to a considerable value; but God about the same time stirred up the heart of a planter in South-Carolina, lately brought home at the orphan-house to God, to send my family some rice and beef. At other times, when they have wanted food, the Indians have brought plenty of venison. God, every day, more and more convinces us that this work is of him. His power has been made known, especially among the young ones. I bless God, I have settled my family to my great satisfaction, and verily believe I shall live to see great things come from the Orphan-house. God works upon the hearts of the labourers. One woman hath had a glorious discovery of Christ made to her heart: last week, two or three men where brought into heart-distress, and another young man that came to see us, was made so sick of sin, as to feel the want of, and to enquire after the great and all-powerful physician of souls. My family, I think, consists now of 89 persons. Next year my expences will be contracted much; but at present, I am in debt about 500l. sterling. However, I know in whom I have believed, One who is able to pay it. My public accounts will be published as soon as I arrive at London, with a prospect of the Orphan-house, and other little houses and gardens annexed unto it. I am now at the house of one Mr. Jonathan B――, who, I trust, with his brother Mr. H―― B――, and another young man, lately a player in New-York, are settled by a living faith in Jesus Christ. The latter, I intend for the ministry. Mr. H―― B――’s wife died not long since, rejoicing in God her Saviour. Several others also in these parts are grown in grace, and Mr. C――’s ministry hath been much blessed.—Satan hath been sowing tares in old England. Oh that Boston ministers and people may pray for me! Indeed, I love them in the bowels of the blessed Jesus. Vale! longum etsi spero non in æternum, vale. That Christ’s kingdom may flourish in your heart, and that you may greatly promote it in the souls of others, is the hearty prayer of, Reverend and dear Sir,

Your affectionate unworthy fellow-servant, in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER ♦CCXLII.

To the Rev. Mr. C――.

Charles-Town, Jan. 12, 1741.

Dear and Reverend Sir,

LAST Saturday I was taken up for being concerned in correcting the inclosed printed letter, written by Mr. H―― B――n, whose conversion you have an account of in the other letter sent herewith. I think it may be for God’s glory to have them all printed in Boston. I am bound over to appear next sessions, as well as Mr. B――. He, I believe, for libelling the king, and I for libelling the clergy, in saying they break the Canons daily. I think, dear Sir, these are earnests of what I must expect to meet with in my native country. Opposition, as yet, seems to be only like a cloud rising out of the sea, no bigger than a man’s hand. Perhaps it will gather to a great body, and break upon the church of God. Our Lord will be our refuge in every storm. He is much with my soul, and fills me abundantly, I could almost say superabundantly, with his presence. We have seen precious times. One person had a glorious discovery of Christ about two days ago. I expect my family will be like the burning bush. I find I am in debt for them upwards of six hundred pounds: but the Lord will provide.—My most tender love awaits all that love him. I am to appear at the sessions by an attorney. Dear Sir, remember,

Ever yours in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXLIII.

To the Rev. Mr. C――, at Rhode Island.

Charles-Town, Jan. 16, 1741.

Reverend and Dear Sir,

I Snatch a few moments to write you a line before I embark for England. Blessed be God, you are near your desired haven. Yet a little while, and you shall safely arrive in Abraham’s bosom. I præ, sequar, esti non passibus equis.—Great things God is doing daily. The kingdom of heaven (I hope) is at hand. I am bound over to appear at the sessions here, by my attorney, for libelling the clergy, because I corrected the letter inclosed. A scene of suffering lies before me, but wherefore should I fear? Our Lord strengthens me mightily in the inner man. We have had much of his presence in our assemblies. But I must have done. Dear and Reverend Sir, adieu. I scarce expect to see you again in the flesh; but this is my comfort, I shall see and rejoice with you above. There, I will sit and tell you what God hath done for

Your unworthy brother and servant in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCXLIV.

To the Rev. Mr. C――, in Boston.

Charles-Town, Jan. 16, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

THOUGH I have packed up two letters for you already, yet I cannot refrain from sending you a third. Just now I was favoured with yours dated last December 1. Indeed, it gave me much comfort, and endeared the writer of it to me more and more. Sir, why am I thus highly favoured! I now wish to sink exceeding low, and cry out, Grace, grace! O the love of God! The sovereignty of Christ! The unchangeable loving-kindness of our heavenly Father! Excuse me, dear Mr. C――; my heart is full. I want for all men to love the Lord Jesus. It greatly rejoices me, to hear so many are coming to him. He is a loving tender master. He attends to my minutest wants, and surprizingly helps me in every emergency. I thank dear Mr. C――, for the kind token of his love. Good measure pressed down and running over, may God return into your bosom! You will be pleased to correct the press. I am filled with comfort to hear of the conduct of the dear governor, &c. I cannot but think our Lord will let his word run, and be abundantly glorified in America. Boston people are much upon my heart. The memory of their forefathers is precious to my soul. May you live to see the spirit of scriptural Puritanism universally prevail! I hope you will write every opportunity. If I am in prison, it will make me arise at midnight to sing praises to God, to hear that Boston people are alive to Christ. At present, my heart is full of peace and joy. We have had solemn meetings. I am much strengthened on every side; but I must not say more. Time is short. Dear Mr. C――, adieu. May the Lord be with you and yours. I could now drop a tear of love.—My love to all.

I am yours &c.

G. W.

LETTER CCXLV.

To Mr. W―― D――, at Boston.

On board the Minerva, for England, Jan. 17, 1741.

Dear Sir,

MR. P―― hath just brought me your kind letter. Blessed be God, that his word runs and is glorified in Boston. Surely, dear Sir, I shall never forget that people; indeed, they are very near and dear unto my soul. May those of your own household, in particular, be not only convicted but converted; may the dear Jesus fill you with all peace and joy in believing, and enable you to pray for, dear Sir,

Yours in the blessed Jesus,

G. W.

P. S. Excuse great haste; our ship is just under sail. My dear companions kindly salute you and yours.

LETTER CCXLVI.

To Mr. Wm. G――.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 8, 1741. in latitude 35, 24 N.

My dear brother,

SEE how soon I write to you, and from thence infer how I love you. Whether it proceeds from the pride and naughtiness of my heart, I cannot tell; but, I frankly confess, I love to see persons humble, kind, and courteous to those, whom God hath made their spiritual fathers. I believe it is well pleasing to God, and very amiable in the sight of all good men. Your christian grateful behaviour to me in this respect, hath much endeared you to me. God only knows how I love you. I bear you upon my heart, and often secretly sigh out before the Lord,—“O let my dear brother G―― live before thee.” This is the desire of my soul for you. I cannot wish you a better thing. Yet a little while, and we shall be together again. But, before that time, I expect to suffer great things. The Lord is able to deliver me out of all. I have just now experienced his divine assistance in composing a sermon. This is the sixth which he has enabled me to finish, since I have been on board. O my dear brother, love a precious Christ, and shew it by adorning his gospel in all things. He has highly favoured you, indeed he hath. If you and I are not eminently holy, if you and I think any thing too much to be done for the Lord, we are of all men the most ungrateful. O the love of Christ! I feel it, I feel it. God now sheds it abroad in my heart. May it abundantly also be shed on you by the Holy Ghost. Write to me if in prison, my friends will bring it to me there. God will hear me for you even in a dungeon. Methinks I see you weep; but weep not for me, unless it be before the Lord, and then I care not how soon you retire, and pour out your prayers in behalf of, dear Mr. G――,

Your affectionate friend, brother and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCXLVII.

To Mrs. L――, at Charles-Town.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 11, 1741.

Dear Mrs. L――,

YOU was upon the mount when I left Charles-Town; I hope you have not thrown yourself down. Keep close to Christ, and cast not off your first love. Remember what God has done for your soul. Forget not the glorious discovery Jesus Christ has made of himself to your heart; and though a cloud should overshadow you, let not Satan make you doubt of your being a child of God. O Mrs. L――, how holy ought you to be in all manner of conversation and godliness! Why are you taken? Why are you in the arms of everlasting love? Methinks I hear you cry out, Grace! grace! And well you may; for indeed you are saved by grace. The free grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you now and for ever more. Blessed be God, I experience much of it in the ship. I hope divine grace moves me to send you this small letter. If God blesses it to your soul, put up a short prayer for

Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXLVIII.

To Mrs. W――, at James-Island.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 11, 1741.

Dear Madam,

MY heart’s desire and prayer to God is, that you may be saved. I hope you will find, it is not impossible for you to be born again when you are old. God forbid. Though at the eleventh hour, I trust our Lord will meet you, and cause you, whenever you depart, with good old Simeon, to depart in peace. I heartily thank you, madam, for all favours conferred on me and mine. We have not forgotten you on board. I do not forget to mention you in my secret prayers. May God reveal his dear Son in your soul, and fill you with all peace and joy in believing! O what a staff will this be to you in your old age! How pleasantly then will you walk by your vault, and say, “There shall I lay my weary bones ere long.” I hope you do not startle at the thoughts of death. Believe in Christ. Get a saving interest in his blood, and then you may cry out, “O death, where is thy sting! O grave, where is thy victory?” Blessed be God, the prospect of death is pleasing to my soul. I would not live here always: I want to be gone. That you and I, whenever our appointed time is come, may live with Christ, is the earnest prayer of, madam,

Your obliged friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXLIX.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 12, 1741.

Dear Mrs. T.,

MUST I pray for you in the language of Martha and Mary, saying, “Lord, she whom thou lovest is sick!” Or hath he who touched Peter’s wife’s mother, rebuked the illness that was coming upon you, when I saw you last, and caused it to leave you? But, however the Lord has dealt with you, I hope he hath been glorified in and by you. I heard he had by his word and spirit spoken to your soul, and given you satisfaction, that he had loved you with an everlasting love. I rejoice in it from my soul. The Lord increase your comforts daily, and shew you all his glory. Dear Mrs. T――, think often of your departed sister. Follow her as she did Christ; and then shortly, where she is you shall be also. O the happiness she now enjoys! It is too dazzling for mortal eyes. I want to leap my seventy years, and fly away to God. Well, it will not be long. Dear Mrs. T――, let us patiently tarry till our change come. Our Lord will carry us safe through time, and waft us triumphantly into eternity. The love of Christ constrained me to write these lines; accept them for his sake, from

Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCL.

To Mr. H――, at Port-Royal, South-Carolina.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741.

Dear Mr. H.,

THE love of Christ constrains me to write you a line, though as yet no further than the western islands. I trust the Lord hath called you by name, and enabled you to say “Speak Lord, for thy servant heareth.” Who knows but he may call you yet further, even to minister before him? Whether it be so or not, make it your daily study to prepare your heart to serve the Lord in any station. To be a doorkeeper in the house of God, is a glorious post. Surely, you and I may sing of mercy and electing love. How often have we acted a part for the devil? The remembrance of it is grievous unto me. Let us both now labour daily to act a part for God. He heaps kindnesses on me every hour. We have hitherto had a wonderful pleasant passage. I hope it is in some measure owing to your prayers. Let this encourage you to pray again. Our God is a God hearing prayer. I write now, lest excess of business should prevent my writing in England. The Lord is girding me for the battle, and strengthening me mightily in the inner man. “O give thanks unto the Lord of all Lords, because his mercy endureth for ever.” You will not fail writing to

Your affectionate friend, brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLI.

To the Reverend Mr. C――, in Charles-Town.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741.

My dear Brother,

THE Lord hath been with me, and is now with me in an especial manner. I have been enabled to prepare nine discourses for the press. My body waxes stronger, and last night the great God in a glorious manner filled and overshadowed my soul. I am panting after the compleat holiness of Jesus my Lord. I have various scenes of action lying before me, and am waiting upon the Lord my God for direction. He assures me that he will be with me. He saith unto me, “Fear not, speak out, no one shall set upon thee to hurt thee.” Dear Mr. C――, God’s goodness quite surprizes me. I cannot express myself better, than in a stanza or two of Erskine in his Paraphrase upon Solomon’s song.

I.

What wonders Lord dost thou perform,

That stoopest thus so low,

To put thy beauty on a worm,

And then commend it so.

II.

What, dost thou praise a native black?

I blush to find it true;

O lend me words to render back

The praise to whom ’tis due.

I hope my love will find acceptance with all your flock who know me, and who love the Lord Jesus in sincerity. I have often comforted myself and companions with this saying, “Now Mr. C―― and our other friends are praying for us.” At the receipt of this, turn your prayers into praises, and then turn your praises again into prayers, in behalf of, dear Mr. C――,

Your affectionate brother and fellow-labourer in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER ♦CCLII.

To Mr. H. B.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741.

My dear brother in Christ,

BEFORE this is brought to your hands, I suppose you will have been arraigned before the Chief Justice. I am persuaded our Lord will plead on your behalf, and strengthen you with his mighty power in the inner man. The greater progress you make in the divine life, the more you will discover of the enmity that is in the seed of the serpent. It bruised our master’s heel; it will also bruise ours. Here is our comfort, God who cannot lie, hath told us, that “we shall bruise his head.” In the strength of this promise, I can give men and devils the challenge. Whole legions are ready to beset me. By the help of my God, I shall triumph over all.—I hope we shall grow in grace before we meet again. You and I have weak crazy tabernacles; I hope you rejoice in the prospect of putting them off shortly; blessed be God, I do.—Dear Sir, get acquainted more and more with electing love; study the covenant of redemption, and see how God loved you with an everlasting love. This will cause you to glory only in the Lord, and to pass through the valley of the shadow of death, with a full assurance of faith; knowing that Christ hath engaged to lodge you safe in eternal glory. Thither your dear wife is gone before us; I often think of, I could almost say envy her; but perhaps that is wrong. Yet a little while, and our precious Lord shall take both you, and

Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLIII.

To Mr. B――, at Port-Royal.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741.

Dear Mr. B.,

I Hope you will never forget that day, hour, or moment, wherein God met you at Savannah. If you have in some measure, do so no more. “Awake thou that sleepest, and Christ shall give thee light.” Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. No man can serve two masters. Use the world, but let it be as though you used it not. The fashion of this world will soon, very soon, fade away. Dear Mr. B――, I am persuaded, will not be offended at this plain dealing. He knows I love him. God knows it also. With much affection, I subscribe myself

Your friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCLIV.

To Mrs. B.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741.

Dear Mrs. B.,

WHEN you read that Jesus loved Lazarus, Mary, and their sister Martha, do you not make a particular application to your own family? I think our Lord has been equally kind to your houshold. Walk as becometh members of the houshold of faith. I hope you have had full satisfaction about your state, and know assuredly that Christ is your Saviour. If not, be not discouraged; go on the way of duty, is the way of safety. By-and-by your soul shall magnify the Lord, and your spirit rejoice in God your Saviour. This is the hearty desire of, dear Mrs. B――,

Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLV.

To Mr. J―― B――.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741.

Dear Mr. B――,

YOUR name, Jonathan, puts me in mind of a good old testament worthy. Follow him in his faith, and dare to scale the wall of the Philistines. Be not afraid, though already bound over as a libeller; shortly you shall shine in the kingdom of your Father; I say, your Father; for God is your God, and will be your guide and guard unto death. Does not this astonish you? Do not you feel your heart melt? Are you not ready to cry out, “Why me, Lord?” The oftener you repeat such language the better. I love to see a soul lie in the dust under a sense of electing love; you and yours have been highly favoured. May God give you all grace to walk worthy of the holy vocation wherewith you are called. I write this out of the fulness of my heart. Though not present, yet I fain would converse with you. O that I may see you grown in grace! Remember me to your wife. The Lord be with you both: He hath been, he is now with me. You are often upon my heart. God reward you for your kindness to the Orphans. Do not slack your hands towards them. Our bountiful master will richly reward you. Go on steadily in the use of, but do not trust in ordinances. You know what I mean. Be steady and bold, yet meek and catholic in your conversation and practice; and if God hath influenced you by my ministry, give him the glory, and for Christ’s sake pray for

Your affectionate brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLVI.

To Mr. B――, in Charles-Town.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741.

Dear Mr. B.,

I Think of you often, indeed I do, I long to hear that complete salvation is come to your soul. I say complete salvation, for my dear friend knows that reformation is not conversion. O that you may experience a life hid with Christ in God! Some who seemingly put their hands to the plough, have already shamefully looked back; will Mr. B. also go away? Methinks I hear him say, “Whether shall I go? Jesus Christ alone hath the words of eternal life.” True, Jesus alone is the way, the truth and the life; flee, flee to him, my dear friend; with arms he stands ready to embrace, and will save you to the uttermost. Remember, my friend, the vows of the Lord are upon you. These hands reached out to you the sacred symbols of his precious body and blood. These eyes saw you eat and drink of his bread and his wine. O do not betray, but manfully stand up for the Lord Jesus. You was once bold for satan, be now bold for your Christ. His love excites me to write to, and pray for you. Your wife also I intreat the Lord to bless, together with your children. My friends join me in hearty wishes for your welfare. I am, dear Mr. B――,

Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLVII.

To the Rev. Mr. D――, at Edinburgh.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 16, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

IF I mistake not, Mr. M. informed me, that you was entered into the ministry; I pray God to enable you to make full proof of it. O dear Sir, how holy ought we to be, who are called to stand before the Lord.—When I consider the greatness of the office and my own unworthiness, I am sometimes quite abashed. This promise, “Lo I am with you always,” is my daily support. Blessed be God, I find it fulfilled in my soul. A great work is begun in America, at Georgia, South-Carolina, New-York, Philadelphia, and New-England. God has confirmed the word by spiritual miracles and signs. You will see what I have wrote to dear Mr. T――. Your assistance in respect to the Orphan-house will be very acceptable. I am several hundreds of pounds in debt on that account. The God whom I serve is able to discharge it. You have heard of the liberality of the New-England people; dear Mr. D―― God’s goodness astonishes me. What! can I think any thing too much to do, or to suffer for so dear a Master? I was lately bound over at Charles-Town in South-Carolina, for libelling the clergy. The libel, falsely so called, I shall soon send you after my arrival. Thus opposition is coming on gradually: pray that the Lord may cover me with all his armour. I am a weak defenceless creature in myself; Jesus alone is my strength and my Redeemer. I write this on board, that you may know, you are not forgotten; no, tho’ I never saw you in the flesh, you are much beloved by, dear Sir,

Your affectionate brother and fellow-labourer in our dear Lord’s vineyard,

G. W.

LETTER CCLVIII.

To the Rev. Mr. T――, at Edisto.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741.

Dear Mr. T.,

PROVIDENCE prevented my coming to see you at Edisto,—however, I must not omit writing to you now. How is it with your heart? I hope you are not nimis uxorius; take heed, my dear B――, take heed. Time is short. It remains that those who have wives, be as tho’ they had none. Let nothing intercept, or interrupt your communion with the bridegroom of the church. I hope you do not feel such damps of soul, as you used to complain of. May the Lord of glory dispel every black cloud, and cause you continually to rejoice in his salvation. You have strong passions. The Lord Jesus is stronger: In his strength may you subdue them, till you are meek as a lamb, and are become a very little child. I write thus, because I pray for you most heartily.—Deal with me in the same manner; and now, dear brother, farewel. The Lord be with you. He is pleased to refresh my soul, and give me the prospect of a short passage. I commend myself and affairs to the prayers of your flock, and I earnestly recommend you to the God of all grace. That he may bless you and give you an inheritance among all them that are sanctified, is the earnest prayer of, dear Mr. T.――,

Your affectionate brother and fellow-labourer in the Lord,

G. W.

LETTER CCLIX.

To Mrs. B――, in Charles-Town.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741.

Dear Mrs. B.,

I Am much obliged to you many ways. The Lord reward you a thousand-fold. Your prayers are heard. God is carrying us upon the wings of the wind. The angel of the covenant accompanies us in the way. The present season is a time of refreshing to my soul. I hope it will be a profitable voyage. I think I see more into the wickedness of my own heart, and the unsearchable riches of the Lord Jesus, who hath redeemed me by his precious blood. I believe you can say so: Why do you shake your head? Woman, why doubtest thou? Has not the Lord visited your soul? Have you not heard him say in his word, applied by his spirit, “I have loved thee with an everlasting love?” And do you think God would tell you so, if it was not so? Away therefore with all desponding fears; come boldly, with a full assurance of faith, and draw water plentifully out of the wells of salvation. O that all were comforted, as I am now comforted of God. I would not eat my spiritual morsels alone. I hope, a letter from you will acquaint me, how good the Lord has been to your soul. I have no greater joy, than to hear that my christian friends walk in the truth. The Lord be with you. Remember me to your father and sisters. That you all may be true members of the houshold of faith, prays

Your affectionate brother and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCLX.

To Mr. B. and his wife at Bethesda.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741.

Dear brother B――,

WHEN I left Charles-Town, the Lord seemed to give me a full assurance, that we should have a speedy passage.—We have hitherto had scarce any contrary winds, and are now very near the Western Islands. We had one storm the first week, but almost ever since have been favoured with weather as well as wind. O that you would call the family together, and praise the Lord for the mercies conferred on us the unworthiest of the sons of men! I do not know that I have failed praying for you one day, since I have been out. I long to hear what the Lord hath done for your souls. What say you? Do you live in love? Do you strive together with me in your prayers? Are any of the Orphan Lambs bleating after their great Shepherd? Is your mouth opened? Is your heart enlarged? Is your soul swallowed up in God? Does Bethesda answer its name? Is it, indeed, an house of mercy? These questions, I hope to have answer’d in the affirmative. If you ask, how it is with my soul? Blessed be God, I can reply, “Very well.” The Lord gives me a feeling possession of himself. I have been enabled to compose nine discourses for the press. God willing, you shall hear from me often. I write this, that I may be ready, if I should hear of any ship coming your way immediately upon my arrival; receive it as a token of my love, which God knows is unfeigned, from

Your affectionate brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXI.

To Mr. J. B――, Charles-Town.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741.

Dear Mr. B――,

I Think I owe you a letter; I believe you love me in the bowels of Jesus Christ. I hope our love is reciprocal. How can it be otherwise with those, who have drank of the same spirit? I long for that happy time, when we shall be swallowed up in the vision and full fruition of the glorious Godhead. The bunch of grapes makes me long to eat of the full clusters in the heavenly Canaan. The first-fruits make me pant after the full harvest. Perhaps you may go and partake of it first, and drink new wine before me in the kingdom of our Father; I hope I shall not stay long after you, if not called before. My soul is sick of love. Nothing can satisfy it, but the full sight and enjoyment of Christ. He now visits my soul, and causes it mightily to rejoice in his salvation. How lovingly he hath dealt with me in other respects, letters sent to other friends can best inform you. Haste, read, hear, and join with them in giving thanks and praying for

Your affectionate friend and brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXII.

To Mrs. S――, in Charles-Town.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741.

Dear Mrs. S――,

MY soul is now in an heavenly frame, swallowed up in God, and melted down by the love of my dear Lord Jesus. It is almost too big to speak. I will give it vent by writing to you. Our master hath been exceeding gracious, and has shewn me several tokens for good, which I desired of him in secret prayer. Last night, I think I received as full satisfaction as I could desire, in respect to my marriage. I believe what I have done, is of God; tho’ I know not when my heart was more disengaged from earthly thoughts than now. I only desire, that the dear Jesus may be glorified in me, whether it be by life or by death. I depend on your sending me a particular account of affairs at Charles-Town. I have wrote to many; you will hear how my letters are received. I shall be glad to hear how it is with your own soul. I beseech you to live near to Christ, and to keep up a holy walk with God. Be inward with God in your duties. Trust and hang on God, even when he hides himself from you. He will be your guide unto death. Hunger and thirst daily after the righteousness of Christ. Be content with no degree of sanctification. Be always crying out, “Lord, let me know more of myself and of thee; O let me receive grace for grace of thy dear Son.” This, at present, is the full desire of my soul. I am persuaded the Lord will satisfy it. God is love; we cannot think too highly of him; we cannot expect too great things to be done by him. His right hand, I believe, will bring mighty things to pass. I am now entering on a scene of trials. The Lord hath sent me on the seas to prepare me for them. Not that I depend on any stock of grace already received, I would look to Christ continually. But whither am I running? I forget myself. I almost fancy, I am talking with you. I have only room to acquaint you, that dear J―― S―― sits by me, and cordially salutes you, with

Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXIII.

To the Rev. Mr. S――, Charles-Town.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 17, 1741.

Rev. and dear Sir,

YOU have been very kind to me in many respects; but I have been ungrateful to you, and infinitely more so to my gracious God. I have not failed frequently to bemoan my unworthiness. Since I have been on board, the Lord hath heard the voice of my weeping, and now fills my soul with all peace and joy in believing. I have been much assisted in composing sermons for the press. At present my soul is closely adverting to God, who, I believe, will bring me safe to glory. My bodily strength is much renewed. In short, I am comforted on every side. Dear Sir, praise the Lord in my behalf. O let us magnify his name together. I hope you feel what it is to have fellowship with the Father and the Son, and experience the influences of the Holy Ghost, in delivering your blessed master’s message. I salute Mr. P―― and your whole church. My request is, “Brethren, pray and give thanks for us.”—When you write to New-England, pray remember me to all friends in the kindest manner. That country, and the people, lie very near my heart. I hope to be favoured with a line from you ere I return from England. Great perils there await me; but Jesus Christ will send his angel, and roll away every stone of difficulty. In his strength alone is my trust, and for his sake and in his name, I subscribe myself, reverend and dear Sir,

Your affectionate brother and fellow-labourer in the Lord,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXIV.

To Mr. J―― H――, at Bethesda.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 18, 1741.

My dear Friend and Brother,

YESTERDAY we humbled ourselves before God, and by prayer and fasting sought for a blessing, and direction in all our affairs. I wish I had kept family fasts at Savannah. Suppose you had one monthly at Bethesda? You will see, by dear Brother B――’s letter, the frame of my mind. Since that, I have been a little in the valley, but the Lord is my comforter. I hope I grow in grace, and in the knowledge of myself, and the Lord Jesus Christ. My heart is much united to Messrs. W――s, tho’ we differ in some particulars. May God make us of one mind, as well as heart. I shall make all possible haste back, and remit money to you as often as I can. Mr. P―― tells me, his brother is to send you upwards of a hundred pounds, and I suppose other supplies will be sent from the Northward. I have also wrote to Charles-Town. I am persuaded God will not let you want. I would not have any thing left undone, that is necessary for the family’s comfortable subsistence. The Lord is our Shepherd, therefore we shall not lack. I shall long to hear how the blessed Jesus deals with you. He is wonderfully gracious unto me, and hath made this voyage profitable to my soul. O my friend, my friend, the Lord be with you. My love is firm to you at the bottom, tho’ sometimes it hath ebbed and flowed; in heaven it will not be so. On earth it is needful it should; otherwise, how should we learn to cease from man? But I am a worm and no man, and deserve to be the outcast of all people. My eyes are now ready to gush out with water. O the sovereign love of Christ in chusing me! My dear friend, let us study to be holy even as he is holy, and walk even as he also walked. Let these be your daily questions, “Am I more like Christ? Am I more meek and patient? Does my practice correspond with my knowledge, and am I a light to enlighten and enflame all that are around me?” I could say more, but I think to write again when I get on shore. God bless you and yours. I suppose you have heard that Mr. P―― sails with

Your affectionate friend, brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXV.

To Mr. S―― W――, at Bristol.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 20, 1741.

AND does my friend W―― look again towards God? Never did the Father with greater joy receive the returning prodigal, than I shall embrace you in these unworthy arms, if you are alive to God. I trust your late tepidity will now make you more fervent in spirit. I pray God to give you a settlement in Christ, that you may be rooted and grounded in love. My brother, the captain, gave me a particular account of your soul. I hope he will yet appear for God; will you also appear with him? Why should you strive to please a pleasure-taking world? Why should you keep in league with the apparent enemies of God? But no more of this. Let old things pass away, let all things become new. I believe God suffered you to fall, because you thought more highly of yourself than you ought to think. My love to all. I feel a great union of soul with Mr. W――; we differ in principles, but I hope the Lord will make us of one mind. You must not be surprized, if I publish an answer to Mr. John W――’s sermon, entitled, Free Grace. It is wrote in much love and meekness. Adieu for the present. Give thanks on my behalf. The Lord hath dealt wonderously kind with, dear Mr. W――,

Yours eternally in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXVI.

To Mr. T―― S――, in London.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 20, 1741.

My dear Brother,

I Have kept your letter by me till now, that I might answer it on my voyage. It speaks the language of a perplexed heart, and plainly shews me, that satan loves to keep us in bondage. My dear Brother, I think you have done wrong in holding your peace. I am sure you once felt that freedom of soul, which you are a stranger to now. The way of duty is the way of safety. Whatever you may say to the contrary, unless you will give the lie to your own experiences, you must confess, that you have indeed tasted of the good word of life. You should, therefore, have went forwards, and not have turned back again, and thereby plunged yourself into darkness; darkness that may be felt. Alas, you have too eagerly embraced principles (I fear) contrary to the gospel of Christ. You are aiming at a false voluntary humility, and are returning back to the flesh pots of Egypt. I know my words will have but little force with some, but I must deliver my soul. God was once pleased to work upon you by my ministry, and therefore I am more solicitous for your welfare. I know the advice you would give me is, “be still.” I hope I am, so far as really to know the Lord; but yet I will strive, yet will I walk in all the ordinances of God, and go on from strength to strength till I come to appear before him in his heavenly Zion. I write this, out of the fulness of my heart. Indeed I love you, and the brethren; I am willing to be the servant of you all. I am less than the least. However, I dare not embrace tenets that are not agreeable to the form of sound words. Let me see you as soon as may be after my arrival, and in the mean while accept of hearty love, from

Your affectionate brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXVII.

To Mrs. A. D.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 20, 1741.

My dear Sister,

MY conscience almost reproaches me, that I have not wrote to you often, nor full enough; accept this as an acknowledgement of my fault. I am sorry for it. We are now about a thousand miles off England. I hope this will provoke you to send me a letter immediately after my arrival. I find Luther’s observation to be true: “Times of reformation are times of confusion;” as yet the churches in America are quiet, but I expect a sifting time ere long. My family in Georgia was once sadly shaken, but now, blessed be God, it is settled, and, I hope, established in the doctrines of grace. Your name is precious among them. I wish you would send them a long letter. Your book on walking with God has been blessed to one Mr. B――, and others in South-Carolina. It hath also been serviceable to a dear friend now with me, as also to myself. I cannot well tell you what great things are doing abroad. I have a scene of sufferings lying before me; I expect shortly to cry out with the spouse, “Look not upon me, because I am black, because the sun hath looked upon me, my mother’s children were angry with me.” My Lord’s command, now, I believe, is, “Take the foxes, the little foxes that spoil the vines; for our vines have tender grapes.”—Help me by your prayers. It is an ease thus to unbosom one’s self to a friend, and an instance of my confidence in you. O, my dear Sister, I am less than the least of all saints, I am the chief of sinners, and yet Jesus loves me, and sheds his love abroad in my heart abundantly by the Holy Ghost. I have been much assisted in composing some gospel sermons, which I intend for the press. I have sought the Lord by prayer and fasting, and he assures me, that he will be with me. Whom then should I fear? Hitherto we have had an extraordinary passage, praise the Lord. Herewith I send you a letter from one of the children which God has given me: He will rejoice to receive a line from you. If possible, I hope, tho’ you are in the decline of life, to see you face to face before I leave England. I should be glad to hear how you are as to worldly circumstances; if I can help you in any degree, freely command

Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXVIII.

To T―― K――, at London.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 20, 1741.

My dear Brother K――,

I Received your kind letter at Savannah, and though I hope to see you face to face soon after you receive this, yet love to your dear soul constrains me to write you an answer before I come on shore.

I find, since my departure, the brethren have fallen into errors. Dear Brother K―― will not be offended, if I say, “He, I fear, is one of them;” for his letter bewrayeth him. My dear Brother, you say, “You have been striving a long, long while, but to very little purpose, &c.” By this, I suppose, you have left off the means, and fallen into stillness; expecting now, that Jesus Christ will so work upon your heart, that you shall not feel the least stirring of indwelling corruption in your soul; in short, that you shall be completely perfect: This was pretty near my case about six years ago, and now I see why God suffered me thus to be tempted, “that I might be more capable of succouring my brethren, now they are tempted.” My dear Brother, let us reason together. “You have been striving (you say) a long while, but to very little purpose.” And what then? must you be therefore still, and strive no more? God forbid: No, you are yet to wait at the pool. “Constantly attend on ordinances;” and who knows but by-and-by the loving Saviour may pass by and visit your soul. Have you not, in some degree at least, felt his divine power in the use of the means? Why should not that encourage you to expect more in the same way? But you say, “I find all that is of self is sin.” And do you expect ever to do any thing, or to offer up to God one sacrifice, without a mixture of sin in it? If you do, indeed you are building a spiritual Babel. My dear Brother, even our most holy thoughts are tinctured with sin, and want the atonement of the Mediator; and therefore, if you leave off striving, because “whatever is of self is sin,” you must never attempt to do any duty whatsoever again. Your stillness hath as much a mixture of self in it, as your striving, and if you proceed in this manner, you must become a professed Quietist. Six weeks did satan keep me under this delusion, but the Lord helped me in the hour of extremity: May he also help my dear Brother K――! Another error you seem to be fallen into is, “that a man cannot be a christian, at least that he is a very weak one, so long as he finds corruption stirring in his heart.” If I was to urge the seventh to the Romans, you would say, St. Paul only speaks of a man under first-awakenings, and not of a converted man; but my dear Brother, did you ever know a man, that was not really converted, delight in the law of God after the inner man? And yet such an one the Apostle speaks of in the latter part of that chapter. Be not deceived, we are to be holy as Christ is holy; we are to receive grace for grace; every grace that is in the blessed Jesus, is to be transplanted into our hearts; we are to be delivered from the power, but not from the indwelling and being of sin in this life. Hereafter, we are to be presented blameless, without spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing. If you labour after any other perfection here, you will labour in vain. St. Paul had attained no other, when he wrote to the Philippians, and to the other churches: But my dear Brother K―― seems to think, “I did wrong in writing to Mr. H―― to know his sentiments upon several texts of scripture, and in sending for several of Calvin’s books.” And why, my dear Brother, was this wrong? Why you say, “you think it is contrary to St. Paul in his Epistles, when he says, he would not speak other men’s words;” but St. Paul says no such thing: The place you aim at, I believe, is 2 Cor. x. 16. “And not to boast in another man’s line, of things made ready to our hand.” My dear Brother, examine the context, and you will find the Apostle means no more than that he would not enter into other men’s labours, as ver. 15. He would not preach where churches were already settled, but go where the gospel had not been delivered. This, and this only, is the meaning of the passage, which dear mistaken Mr. K―― has wrongly quoted. My dear Brother, did not St. Paul bid Timothy to give himself to reading? What, if the Holy Spirit is to lead us into all truth, does not the Holy Spirit make use of, and lead us by the means? Has he not indited the scriptures? Has he not helped holy men to explain those scriptures? And why may I not, in a due subordination to the Holy Spirit, make use of those men’s writings? Has not my dear Brother K―― bought sermons? And why then does “He make use of other men’s words?” O, my dear brother, you are in the wilderness; God bring you safe out of it.

I suppose, because the Dissenters oppose some of your new principles, you term them enemies; but, my dear Brother, though there are many Christless talkers, and hypocritical formalists among the Dissenters, as no doubt there are some such in the purest church under heaven; yet many of them hold and practice the truth as it is in Jesus. But I have done. Count me not your enemy, because I tell you the truth. I expect that great numbers will look shy on me, for thus opposing what I think to be error. Thus the Galatians treated St. Paul; but I must be tried every way. I could add a thousand kind things, but I hope you shortly will have a personal interview with

Your affectionate brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXIX.

To Mrs. J―― F――, in Charles-Town.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 25, 1741.

My very dear Friend,

I Know you will rejoice at the receipt of this: You have abundant reason; the Lord hath been wonderous kind. We are now flying on the wings of the wind, and if it continues, we hope to be at Cowes the beginning of next week. Your kind presents were of great service to my crazy body. The woman passenger has been serviceable in making us bread; and in short, God has wonderfully ordered all things for our great conveniency and comfort. O that my dear friends at Charles-Town, may hereby be excited to thankfulness on our behalf. I have frequently prayed for you both with my friends, and when in secret before the Lord. Indeed you are seldom out of mind. Dear Mrs. F――, I believe God sent you to invite me to your house, and I believe the Lord will plentifully reward both of you, for all your works of faith and labours of love. I think henceforward I must call you Mary, and your husband, I hope, will be truly stiled James the servant of the Lord. I trust you will both serve the Lord Christ, and give yourselves up to the guidance of his blessed word and providences day by day. It is a glorious privilege to be led by the spirit of God. I think I have felt, and do feel, at this time, his sacred influences upon my soul. My body is but weak, though better by much than when I left Charles-Town; however, my soul hath confidence in God. The archers will shoot sorely at me that I may fall; but God will cause my bow to abide in strength, and my arms shall be strengthened by the hands of the mighty God of Jacob. I need not ask for a continuance of your prayers, nor you for mine. I hope we shall be always present with each other in spirit, at the throne of grace. My dear friend, adieu: All with me salute you. Write often to

Your unworthy guest, but truly affectionate servant, friend, and brother in the Lord,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXX.

To Mrs. F――, in Charles-Town.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 25, 1741.

I Hope dear Mrs. F―― will not be offended with these few lines; they are written with a sincere desire to promote your welfare. I want to see you entirely dead to the world, and alive to God. You have been often convinced under the word; may it sink deep into your heart. God, by the late fire, hath shewn you the vanity of all things here below; henceforward set your affections on things above. You are old, and at the head of a great family; you have sealed your promise to lead a holy life, more than once, by receiving the symbols of the blessed body and blood of Christ.

Henceforth let no profane delight

Divide your consecrated soul;

But give it Christ, who has the right,

As Lord and Master of the whole.

Be not ashamed to own you have vowed never to dance again: Dear Mrs. F――, fear not contempt. What is it? only a little breath. Rest not in duties; rest not in outward partial reformation.—He that is in Christ, is a new creature. That old things may pass away, and all things become new in your heart, is the hearty prayer of, Madam,

Your sincere friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXI.

To the Rev. Mr. C――, in Boston.

On board the Minerva, Feb. 26, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

ACCEPT a few lines from one, who desires feelingly to stile himself, less than the least of all. I hope you received my packet from Charles-Town: What happened to me there, was only an earnest of future trials. God hath blessed the reading of the prophecy of the prophet Jeremiah to my soul; as also the history of Joseph, and hath let me see more into the covenant of redemption between the Father and the Son: I am more and more in love with the good old Puritans; I am pleased at the thoughts of sitting down hereafter with the venerable Cotton, Norton, Elliot, and that great cloud of witnesses, which first crossed the Western ocean for the sake of the gospel, and faith once delivered to the saints. At present, my soul is so filled, that I can scarce proceed. Dear Sir, God is with me of a truth; he now gives me a feeling possession of himself: I bless his holy name for sending me to sea; it is profitable both for soul and body. I find the Psalmist’s words to be true, “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him.” O that I may walk humbly with my God! The language of my soul is this:

Correct me when I go astray,

And lead me in thy perfect way.

And now, dear Mr. C――, I have in some measure unbosomed my heart. What shall I say more? Pray for me both in public and private; give thanks, as well as pray, especially for the mercies of this voyage. Dear Sir, adieu till I come on shore, which I hope will be very speedily, being now in soundings; then you shall hear again, God willing, from

Your truly affectionate friend, brother, and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXII.

To Mr. J―― H――.

London, March 25, 1741.

My dear Sir,

I Wrote to you immediately on my coming on shore. We arrived at Falmouth last Wednesday was sevennight, and got here the Sunday following.—Blessed be God, we had a summer’s passage. Many of our friends, I find, are sadly divided, and, as far as I am able to judge, have been sadly misled. Congregations at Moorfields, and Kennington Common, on Sunday, were as large as usual.—On the following week days, quite contrary: Twenty thousand dwindled down to two or three hundred. It has been a trying time with me. A large orphan family, consisting of near a hundred, to be maintained, about four thousand miles off, without the least fund, and in the dearest part of his Majesty’s dominions; also, above a thousand pounds in debt for them, and not worth twenty pounds in the world of my own, and threatened to be arrested for three hundred and fifty pounds, drawn for in favour of the Orphan house, by my late dear deceased friend and fellow-traveller Mr. S――. My Bookseller, who, I believe, has got some hundreds by me, being drawn away by the M――ns, refuses to print for me; and many, very many of my spiritual children, who, at my last departure from England, would have plucked out their own eyes to have given to me, are so prejudiced by the dear Messrs. W.’s dressing up the doctrine of Election in such horrible colours, that they will neither hear, see, nor give me the least assistance: Yea, some of them send threatening letters, that God will speedily destroy me. As for the people of the world, they are so imbittered by my injudicious, and too severe expressions against Archbishop Tillotson, and the Author of the old Duty of Man, that they fly from me as from a viper; and what is most cutting of all, I am now constrained, on account of our differing in principles, publicly to separate from my dear, dear old friends Messrs. J―― and C―― W――y, whom I still love as my own soul: But, through infinite mercy, I am enabled to strengthen myself in the Lord my God. I am cast down but not destroyed, perplexed but not in despair. A few days ago, in reading Beza’s Life of Calvin, these words were much pressed upon me, “Calvin is turned out of Geneva, but, behold a new church arises!”—Jesus, the ever loving, altogether lovely Jesus, pities and comforts me. My friends are erecting a place, which I have called a Tabernacle, for morning’s exposition. I have not, nor can I as yet, make any collections; but let us not fear.—Our heavenly Father, with whom the fatherless find mercy, will yet provide; let us only seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all other necessary things shall be added unto us. In about a fortnight, though I scarce know an oak from a hickery, or one kind of land from another, I am subpœna’d to appear before parliament, to give an account of the condition of the province of Georgia, when I left it. This, I suppose, is occasioned by the party, which hath been so inveterate against the honourable the trustees, whom they accuse of misemploying the public monies. The event, which undoubtedly will be in favour of the trust, you may know hereafter. In the mean while, believe me to be

Yours most affectionately,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXIII.

To Mr. J―― C――.

London, March 25, 1741.

My very dear Brother,

HASTEN hither with all speed, and then we shall see what God intends to do for and by us. It is a trying time now in the church.—The Lord give us a due mixture of the lamb and lion. Some that have been led astray, begin to recover. The Lord make way for his own truths. My love to the Colliers, and all friends. Many, I suppose, will be shy. I am become a monster even to several who were wrought upon by my ministry; but it must needs be that offences should come: otherwise, how should I learn to cease from man? Adieu; excuse brevity—Hasten, and speak face to face with

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXIV.

To Mr. H――.

London, April 10, 1741.

My very dear Friend,

I Ordered Mr. H―― to send you some sermons and accounts, some time ago: I suppose he has done it. I have been at the Parliament-house; the Georgia affair was adjourned. The gentlemen seemed apprehensive that my account of the colony, would have too much weight. It was somewhat of a trial to be in the House. I then remembered what the Apostle said, “We are become a spectacle to men and to angels.” My appeal will come to nothing, I believe. I have waited upon the Speaker; he received me kindly. I cannot yet determine when I shall see you. If you fear, I hope you will pray for me. The Lord blesses my ministry. Salute dear Mrs. H――: I will write to her next; but you two are one. The Lord be with you both. At present I am weak in body, and therefore must beg leave to subscribe myself

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXV.

To Mr. S―― M――, at London.

Bristol, April 27, 1741.

My dear Friend and Brother,

ON Tuesday, April 22d, I left London, and preached on Wednesday and Thursday morning at Newbury, to large congregations. On Friday evening I preached at Bristol, and have continued to do so twice every day to great and affected auditories. I received your kind letter, and thank you for it. I rejoice in the good news from New-England. Last night, I rejoiced much in seeing a soul wonderfully exult in God, just at the borders of death. Great manifestations of the divine presence have attended my sermons. Praise the Lord O my soul! I am glad to find Mr. S―― goes on well. Pray give my love to brother G――. My body is sometimes weak, but my soul rejoices in God my Saviour. I know not, whether I shall come so soon as proposed to London. I find it necessary, through the increase of awakened souls, to get a society-room built adjoining to our new tabernacle. I pray God to fill it with his glory, and beg leave to subscribe myself, dear Mr. M――,

Your affectionate friend, brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXVI.

To Mr. H―― H――.

Bristol, April 28, 1741.

My dear Brother,

BLESSED be God for knitting us together in love. May it continue, and increase till consummated in eternity! The Lord Jesus direct you. It is now a trying time with the church. Our Lord is now chiefly wounded in the house of his friends. The Lord keep us both from a party spirit on one hand, and from too much rashness and positiveness on the other. I speak thus, because you seem offended that some affirm, “That there is no such thing as dominion over indwelling sin, nor rest from working for life wholly.” Now this is certainly true in one sense. We shall never have such a dominion over indwelling sin, as entirely to be delivered from the stirring of it; and the greatest saint cannot be assured, but some time or other for his humiliation, or punishment for unfaithfulness, God may permit it to break out into some actual breach of his law, and in a gross way too. Let us not be high-minded, but fear. It is equally true, that we shall not rest wholly from working for life. For whilst there is any part of us unregenerate, that part will be always leading us to the old covenant. Luther often complained of the propensity of his heart this way. If we know ourselves, we shall find it to be so with us; but I suppose you have been tinctured with the doctrine of sinless perfection. No wonder therefore you write thus. May God give you a right judgment in all things, and enable you rightly to divide the word of truth! As for assurance, I cannot but think, all who are truly converted must know that there was a time in which they closed with Christ: But then, as so many have died only with an humble hope, and have been even under doubts and fears, though they could not but be looked upon as christians; I am less positive than once I was, lest haply I should condemn some of God’s dear children. The farther we go in the spiritual life, the more cool and rational shall we be, and yet more truly zealous. I speak this by experience. Dear brother H―― will not be angry with me. I hope, and believe, you pray for me. The Lord Jesus carries me on. Many have been convinced at London. I preach here twice daily, to large congregations, with great power. The Lord, I believe, will yet bring mighty things to pass. I am, dear H――,

Your most affectionate brother in our dear Lord Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXVII.

To the Rev. Mr. S――.

Bristol, May 1, 1741.

Rev. and dear Sir,

I Am glad to hear by brother M――, that the Lord is with you. May you increase with all the increase of God. The more we do, the more we may do for the dear Lord Jesus. He strengthens me here mightily.—I am enabled to speak here with great power, rather greater than when at London. My congregations are as large as usual, and they go refreshed away. This is the Lord’s doings; may all that is within us praise his holy name! Exhort the dear London people to pray for us. The Lord be with you all. Dear Sir, pray for

Your affectionate brother and unworthy fellow-labourer in our Lord,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXVIII.

To Mr. S――, at Worcester.

Gloucester, May 5, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

WITH this, I send you my answer to brother Wesley’s sermon, and my account of the Orphan-house. I have seen your letter to Mr. N――, and thank you for espousing the cause of a poor despised minister of Jesus Christ. I hope as I make advances in the spiritual life, I shall show my zeal more and more tempered with true christian knowledge and prudence. I would willingly have none of my wild fire mingled with the sacred fire that comes down from God’s altar. I desire not only to do things for God, but to do them in the best manner. I am a poor unworthy sinner, and yet, (O sovereign grace!) the Lord works by me day by day. At Bristol, error is in a great measure put a stop to. The Lord manifested himself in the great congregation there, and doth likewise here. Last night, we saw and felt his power. I have had the pleasure of seeing dear Mr. P――, and I long for that time when I shall see you, Reverend Sir, and all the chosen of God in the kingdom of heaven. But I desire to wait till my change shall come. Dear Sir, be pleased to pray for me. I have prayed for you often. I am a weak sinful worm. As such pray remember, Reverend Sir,

Your affectionate though unworthy brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXIX.

To Mr. Wm. W――, at Edinburgh.

Bristol, May 16, 1741.

Dear Sir,

I Received both your kind letters, and with this send you my hearty thanks for them. I also thank you for your kind invitation of me to Scotland. God only knows when I can come.—All I can say at present is, I will come when the Lord permits. Sad tares have been sown here. It will require some time to pluck them up. The doctrines of the gospel are sadly run down, and most monstrous errors propagated. They assert, “That the very in-being of sin must be taken out of us, or otherwise we are not new creatures.” O dear Sir, exhort all to pray for me, that I may be faithful to my Lord, and yet kept gentle in my temper. At present, our dear Lord causes me to triumph in every place. His gospel gets ground, and his power is manifested among us day by day. The fields are white, every where ready unto harvest. Our Lord I trust will gather his wheat into his heavenly garners. My kind respects attend Mr. M―― and Mr. D――. Had I time I would write a long letter to each. But I am interrupted. However, I am glad to snatch a few moments to beg a continuance of your prayers for a poor unworthy worm, and to assure you that I am, dear Sir,

Your affectionate brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXX.

To Mr. E―― E――, at Sterling.

Bristol, May 16, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Owe you much love. Only want of time, prevents my writing to you oftner. This morning I received a kind ♦letter from your brother Ralph, who thinks it best for me wholly to join the associate presbytery, if it should please God to send me into Scotland. This I cannot altogether come into. I come only as an occasional preacher, to preach the simple gospel to all that are willing to hear me, of whatever denomination. It will be wrong in me to join in a reformation as to church government, any further than I have light given me from above. If I am quite neuter as to that in my preaching, I cannot see how it can hinder or retard any design you may have on foot. My business seems to be, to evangelize, to be a Presbyter at large. When I shall be sent into your parts I know not. I write this, that there may not be the least misunderstanding between us. I love and honour the associate Presbytery in the bowels of Jesus Christ. With this I send them my due respects, and most humbly beg their prayers. But let them not be offended, if in all things I cannot immediately fall in with them. Let them leave me to God. Whatever light he is pleased to give me, I hope I shall be faithful to it. Our dear and precious master still carries me on. God enables me to fight my way through. The gospel doctrines, I believe, will yet prevail. I feel a divine power attending my ministrations. I preach twice daily, and am invited to many places. I believe the Lord intends to keep me on this side the water for some time. Blessed be God, all places are alike to me. O dear Sir, pray for me.—I am a poor unworthy worm. I love you tenderly, but am almost ashamed to subscribe myself

Your brother in the best of bonds,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXXI.

To D―― A――, in London.

Bristol, May 16, 1741.

I Am glad to receive a line once again from dear brother A――. I rejoice that God lets you see more and more into the corruptions of your heart. The more perfect you are, the more will you see and bewail your imperfections in thought, word, and deed; the more will you be made to sing, “In the Lord alone, and not in myself, have I compleat righteousness and strength.” The doctrine of electing love, is precious to my soul. I am enabled to speak of it feelingly to others. My soul is kept in peace and sweetness. Our Lord’s cause needs not noise and rashness. I desire that none of my wild-fire may be mixed with the pure fire of holy zeal coming from God’s altar. I think it my duty to wait, to go on simply in preaching the everlasting gospel, and I believe we shall yet see the salvation of God. Methinks, the cloud begins to break off your mind; I pray God to keep you from extremes. Brother H―― is more and more enlightned; but withal, more and more quickened every day. He finds there is no such thing as sinless perfection, and yet is pressing after holiness of heart and life rather more than ever. May God make my dear brother A―― thus minded! For indeed I love him in the bowels of Jesus Christ. We have had frequently sweet communion with God, and one another. I should have rejoiced to have conversed with you at Bristol. This is my comfort, yet a little while and we shall converse in the kingdom of heaven, for ever and ever. My soul is waiting for this salvation. I know not when I shall go to Axminster. When I do, you shall have timely notice. God blesses my ministry, wherever he sends me. I am invited to fresh places daily. Dear Mr. A――, I, even worthless I, subscribe myself,