LETTERS. (continued 7)

Yours most affectionately in the loving Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXXII.

To Mr. I―― C――.

Bristol, May 18, 1741.

Dear Brother C――,

I Received your letter this morning, and am just setting out for Wiltshire. The Lord hath been much with us. Yesterday I preached three times. At every sermon, a sweet melting was observed in the congregation. Last night I gave your sister the sacrament; she is recovering. I afterwards, administered the sacrament at Mr. T――’s, and had a love feast. Jesus was in the midst of us. I know not but I may come towards London next week. I wonder not at your heaviness.—Before every increase of your work, you must expect some trials. Humblings are necessary for your spirit, and mine. I return my love to all. I must away. Brother H―― rejoices in spirit, and joins with me, who am,

Ever yours in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXXIII.

To the Rev. Mr. J.

Bristol, May 23, 1741.

My dear Brother,

I Bless God for making any thing of mine useful to your soul. May the blessed Jesus breathe upon you day by day, and make you eminently useful to the church of God. I think you write with a kind of prophetic spirit. The Lord only knows how he will be pleased to dispose of me. Great afflictions I am sure of having, and a sudden death, blessed be God, will not be terrible. I know that my redeemer liveth. I every day long to see him, that I may be free from the remainder of sin, and enjoy him without interruption for evermore. I desire patiently to wait, till my blessed change shall come. The Lord hath been with me here. There is a great awakening in Wiltshire, and the work is most wonderfully carried on in New-England. I hope to send you a letter, shortly, that will rejoice your heart. I leave Bristol, and go through Wiltshire to London next Monday.—I then purpose going to Staffordshire, and then through Wales to Scotland. A wider door than ever is opened for preaching the everlasting gospel. I have now only time to beg your prayers, and to assure you that I am

Your most affectionate though weak and unworthy brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXXIV.

To Mr. I―― R――, at Philadelphia.

Bristol, May 23, 1741.

Dear I――,

I Rejoice to find, that you see, feel, and bewail, the plague of your heart. May the Lord shew it you more and more! It will excite your love to the dear Lord Jesus more fervently.—I return my love to your sister. I thought ere now she had been with Jesus. I believe, she has the grace of God in truth, and therefore our Lord will make her conqueror over all. I am glad to hear of the success of the gospel in Boston. It is a gathering time there, but a winnowing time with us here. All is ordered for the good of the church, by Christ Jesus: Let us, my dear brother, keep close to him in this and every trying time. We shall find but few, very few, true followers of the Lamb of God. May you and I be in the happy number! God is pleased to give success to the word preached. Though I am opposed much, Jesus is my strength. The Lord will enable me to fight his battles. My love to Peggy, and all that love Jesus. Forget not to pray for

Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXXV.

To Mr. T――.

Bristol, May 23, 1741.

Dear Sir,

I Am glad to receive a letter from you. I was fearful, lest I had done something to offend you. I thank you and the other gentlemen for their kind invitation of me to Scotland. I believe it will be near three months before I can see Edinburgh. On Monday I set out for London: then I purpose, God willing, to go into Essex, and then to return through Bristol and Wales in my way to you. I intreat all the brethren to pray for me, that I may come in the fulness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. I am a poor, weak, unworthy worm. God hath been with me here, and in Gloucestershire. In Wiltshire there is a great awakening. Abroad in New-England the work goes on wonderfully. O dear Sir, never was such a weak wretch sent on such an important errand. I have many trials of various kinds. Jesus supports me; Jesus makes me more than conqueror. He is a dear and a tender master. Dear Sir, help me to praise him. I will write to all the gentlemen that wrote to me, if I can any way redeem time. In the mean while, be pleased to remember me to them in the kindest manner, and believe me to be

Your affectionate though unworthy brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXXVI.

To Mr. J―― H――, at Savannah.

London, June 1, 1741.

My very dear Friend and Brother,

I Received a short letter from you, but it was dated in January last.—I have sent several to Georgia, and lately also a parcel of things for the children. God appears much in our congregations. We seldom or never have a dry meeting. As to outward things, I never was more embarrassed; but my consolations are equivalent. Praise the Lord, O my soul! I am apprehensive of no opposition from the government. I have waited on the Speaker. He treated me kindly, and assured me that there would be no persecution in this king’s reign: they know I am loyal from principle, but I believe I shall yet be greatly humbled. The story of Joseph in the prison, and David in his troubles before he came to the throne, has been much and comfortably pressed upon my soul. I hope you enjoy peace! May the Lord bless you and the whole household. I am sometimes enabled to pray with great faith for you all. The Lord will yet provide. I am to preach thrice to day. It is now past five in the morning. I am going to the tabernacle lately erected for a morning lecture. We have sweet meetings, blessed be God! In the bowels of our common Jesus, I subscribe myself

Yours eternally,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXXVII.

To Mr. I. C――, at Bristol.

London, June 3, 1741.

I Have enjoyed the especial presence of God ever since I came to London. I preach three times daily. The Lord is remarkably with me. Congregations increase. I am going to have a society-room joined to the tabernacle. The Lord is really on our side.—O let us be meek and quiet! O let us wait, and we shall see the salvation of God. I preach daily at Deptford. Our dear master helps me to preach and pray with great power. Your ministry hath been blessed. Let us both give all the glory to everlasting Love. Salute the dear brethren. Remember me most kindly to all in Wine-street.

Ever yours in the blessed Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXXVIII.

To Mr. R―― E――.

London, June 4, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Have now a little time to myself. I must improve it and answer your kind letter. Blessed be God, for enabling me to write any thing, that may be of service to his church, and of comfort to your soul. Glory be to our dear and common Lord, his cause here succeeds. Truth gets ground. The Lord strengthens me mightily. His power is manifested in our congregations. Conversion work is going on apace among us. I am not yet determined, about the exact time of coming to Scotland: but I believe, I shall be with you in about three months. I can’t but think the associate presbytery, are a little too hard upon me. If I am neuter as to the ♦particular reformation of church government till I have further light, it will be enough. I come simply to preach the gospel, and to be received only as an occasional itinerant preacher by all, and not to enter into any particular connection whatever. The Lord, I hope, will order my goings in his ways. I desire to hear frequently from you. I have need of your prayers. My trials are great, my comforts far greater. I am a poor worm, and yet Jesus delights to honour me. We are likely to have settled societies in several places. Jesus rides on from conquering to conquer. I am, Reverend and dear Sir,

Your unworthy fellow-labourer and affectionate brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCLXXXIX.

London, June 6, 1741.

My Brother H―― H――,

I Do assure you, that my heart is as your heart. I am quite sick of Christless consenters. They talk, and that is all. I (like you) am heartily despised by most of them. I am resolved to open against their luke-warmness, and worldly-mindedness. May God open my mouth wide when I come to Wales. Outward enemies are now more quiet. Enemies within the church, carnal professors, and self-righteous Pharisees, most try us. Let us not fear, Jesus Christ will give us the victory over all. God mightily strengthens me. Our congregations are very large and solemn. I never had greater freedom in preaching. God enables me to cast all my care upon him, with a full assurance that he careth for me. You need not fear my believing any reports to your disadvantage. I love you in the bowels of Jesus Christ. I was not in the least offended, when B―― H―― wrote me word that “you thought in some things I did not act as a little child.” The more open you are with me the better. If nature and pride rise in my heart, I will go to Jesus, abhor myself, and pray for my dear reprovers. All that I can say is, that I desire to be a very little child. All things are possible with Jesus Christ. He is wonderfully kind to me. Truth, I believe, will prevail. I want to see you face to face. Satan does not love that Christ’s ministers should come together. I wish you could come up immediately, and stay at London whilst I am in the country: or rather go and preach at B――l, Gloucester, and Wiltshire, for about a fortnight, and then come up to London. This, I believe, will be best. About that time, God willing, I shall return from Essex, and then we can consult what is best to be done for the cause of our dear master. O Jesus is love! I am glad to hear brother Rowl—d is with you. Go on in the strength of our dear Lord, and you shall see satan like lightning fall from heaven. Times are not yet dark enough for the dawning of a thorough reformation. At even-tide God speaks. My love to all that follow Jesus Christ with an unfeigned simplicity. May the Lord hide your precious soul under the shadow of his almighty wings! Cease not to pray for

Yours eternally in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCXC.

To the Rev. Mr. D――, at Dedham in Essex.

London, June 6, 1741.

Rev. and dear Sir,

MULTIPLICITY of business has prevented my answering your kind letter. However, I have often borne you upon my heart before the Lord. Your case, methinks, is somewhat like that man of God, J. Bunyan’s. He was often so depressed with a sense of sin in the pulpit, that he has been tempted to hold his peace. This has been my case also both in public and in private. I find the best way is to press forward, and to look up to Jesus Christ. He is faithful to his promises. I write but short, having but little time, and because I hope soon to see you in Essex. I pray God to clear up your evidences, and give you no rest till he fills you with a full assurance of faith. Our Lord rides on triumphantly here. He enables me to go on from conquering to conquer. I am a poor weak unworthy worm. As such, be pleased to remember, Reverend and dear Sir,

Your unworthy brother and fellow-labourer in the gospel,

G. W.

LETTER CCXCI.

To Mrs. R――.

London, June 6, 1741.

Dear Mrs. R.,

I Have been much hindred in answering your letter. Perhaps you have expected too much comfort from man. That comfort is alone lasting, which comes from God. I know not your experiences, and therefore cannot so well judge of your case: however, I would have you press forward, and labour after a full assurance of faith. Judge not yourself by others joys and comforts. Look not too much upon the happiness you think others may enjoy. This may lead you to repine and murmur against God. Look to yourself, and to Christ. Remember, you deserve nothing, and therefore he does you no wrong. Remember also, that he is full of love, and therefore in his own due time will manifest himself to your soul. That you may patiently tarry the Lord’s leisure, and be blessed with abundance of peace, is the hearty prayer of, dear Mrs. R――,

Your affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCXCII.

To Mr. K――.

London, June 8, 1741.

Dear Sir,

I Like your last letter best. There is one thing you still lack, “to be convinced of unbelief.” By faith, and not by works, are you to be justified in the sight of God. Make use of the means. You must take care that you do not rest in them. You must not think any thing you can do, will in the least recommend you to the favour of God; and yet you must strive, as if you were to be saved by your striving. The only cause of our acceptance with God lies at the feet of sovereign mercy, through Christ. Entreat the Lord to give you faith, and who knows but he may have mercy upon you. Remember you are a poor sinner, and deserve nothing. That God may reveal his dear Son in you, is the hearty prayer of

Your affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCXCIII.

To Mr. J―― C――, at Kingswood.

London, June 8, 1741.

My dear Brother,

HOW sweetly does providence order all things for us! Just before yours came, I was resolved to send you 20l. to begin the society-room at Kingswood. Mrs. C―― gives it, and I believe will make it up fifty. This gentlewoman hath been made happily instrumental in relieving me out of my late distress. You know how I was threatened to be arrested, soon after my arrival, for above three hundred pounds, due on account of the Orphan-house in Georgia, and I do not know but a writ was actually taken out. This drove me to my knees. God gave me to wrestle, with strong cryings and many tears, both before and after I went to rest—I could plead with him that it was not for myself but his poor. The example of Professor Frank encouraged me to pray, tho’ I found he ventured only week by week; but my situation in such a foreign climate constrained me to run upon larger arrears.—God was pleased to give me an answer of peace. Having as I thought a full assurance of immediate help from some quarter or another, I went to sleep most comfortably. Early the next morning a friend came to me to enquire, if I knew where a gentlewoman of his acquaintance might put out three or four hundred pounds. I replied, let her lend it to me, and in a few months, God willing, she shall have it again.—Upon being acquainted with my circumstances, she most chearfully sent me the sum I wanted, and thus my enemies were disappointed of their hope. Praise the Lord, O my soul!—But to return. I would have you lay the foundation immediately, but take care of building too large or too handsome. Notwithstanding my present embarrassments, who knows, but it may be in my power to discharge my Orphan-house debt, and make collections here for Kingswood-school too? When I could get no assistance at all from my old friends and spiritual (prejudiced) children, and was almost quite pennyless, and left to sit alone like a sparrow upon the house-top, a serious person, whom I never saw or ♦heard of, came the other day and put a guinea into my hand. At receiving it, something as it were said to me, “Cannot that God who sent this person to give thee this guinea, make it up fifteen hundred?” As I told a friend immediately, to whom I ran down, so I shall tell you; I doubt not but this will be the case. My debt is all for God, and contracted in providing for the fatherless and widow. As to the work here, though perhaps I may be blamed by some for venturing so far, blessed be God, it goes on sweetly. All things happen for the furtherance of the gospel. I have wrote brother S―― to let you have twenty pounds.

Yours eternally in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCXCIV.

To the Rev. Mr. S――, at Charles-Town.

London, June 9, 1741.

Rev. and dear Sir,

I Wrote you a few lines lately from Bristol. Since that, I have had the pleasure of receiving a letter from you; for which I thank you heartily. What Mr. P―― brings with him, will inform you how affairs stand here. Blessed be God, the word runs and is glorified. The heat of the battle is now, I hope, pretty well over. God is pleased to give me great power, and to strengthen me both in body and soul. Our congregations are large and awful. We generally see and feel much of the divine presence in the sanctuary. Many are pricked to the heart. I have three truly experienced young men that joined me. Affairs being somewhat settled here, I am going a long journey of several months, thro’ several counties in England, Wales, and Scotland. The door was never opened wider for my preaching the everlasting gospel. I am glad to hear by Mrs. S――, &c. of your faithfulness to our common Lord.—O, dear Sir, what are we that we are called out to speak in his great name! Let us never fear suffering for owning his eternal truths.—The witnesses cannot be slain ’till they have finished their testimony. At present here is no great fear of opposition from the men in power; tho’ I hear the House of Lords intend to give a hearing to my appeal. However it be, I am easy. The Lord Jesus over-rules every thing for the good of his church. I suppose I cannot come over to you ’till about next Spring. In the mean while, tho’ absent in body, I am present with you in spirit, and am, reverend and dear Sir,

Your very affectionate, but unknown brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXCV.

To Mr. J―― P――, in Georgia.

London, June 9, 1741.

Dear brother P――,

I Am sorry to hear you are still in darkness. Let the little light you have, make you hold up your head, and think not of changing your station without a proper call. We are apt to place our happiness in places, and often think we do not please God, because we do not please ourselves. But I find the fault is in the heart, not the place. Wait, therefore, my dear brother, still patiently upon the Lord. Who knows, but by and by Jesus Christ may lift up the light of his blessed countenance upon your soul? Why should you doubt it? My dear brother, Christ is love. He tries, but yet supports me; nay, makes me more than conqueror thro’ his love. You will hear by other letters, how it goes with the church in England. She is shaken, but it is only that she may be the more settled. My love to your wife. I hope you find her an help-meet for you. May the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, bless, preserve, and keep you. May you both walk in the comforts of the Holy Ghost, and be edified; and may God give you hearts to remember

Your affectionate friend, and brother, and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCXCVI.

To the Rev. Mr. F――, at Southampton.

London, June 13, 1741.

Rev. and dear Sir,

JUST now I received your kind letter, and the generous benefaction of you and your friends for the Orphan-house. It came very opportunely, and strengthens my faith in the blessed Jesus. I find he will help me by ways I know not. O, dear Sir, the love of God to such an unworthy worm quite amazes me. Surely, if I did not stand up for free distinguishing grace, the very stones would cry out against me. Blessed be our glorious Emmanuel, the gospel runs and is glorified. A wonderful power attends the word preached. Every day, I believe, some or other are pricked to the heart. I have also glad tidings from abroad. In New-England there is an extraordinary work of God. I hope the dear Jesus will set the whole world in a flame. Dear Sir, help me with your prayers. The archers shoot sore at me that I may fall, but the Lord is my helper. I hope my thanks will find acceptance with your other friends, who joined in helping my poor Orphans. Good measure pressed down and running over, may the Lord return into your bosoms. Dear Sir, I pray God to make you a flaming fire, and fill you with a holy burning zeal for promoting our dear Redeemer’s kingdom. I find but few truly zealous. The love of too, too many is waxed cold. I thank you, dear Sir, for encouraging me, and beg leave to subscribe myself, reverend and dear Sir,

Your affectionate brother in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCXCVII.

To the Rev. Mr. H――.

London, June 13, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Received your kind letter. You do not know, and therefore think too highly of me. “Less than the least of all,” shall be my motto still. Providence is pleased to prevent my leaving London on Monday next. I must necessarily defer my journey to Hertfordshire and Essex, till the Monday following.—I approve of the circuit you have fixed, but I chuse to preach at each place twice. Dear Sir, I most heartily thank you for promising me your assistance in respect to the orphans. I am persuaded our Lord will be well pleased. He gives me great encouragement. We daily feel and see his presence in the great congregation. I hear glorious news from abroad: New-England is in a holy flame. O that we at home, may be stirred up to spend ourselves, and be spent, for the good of souls! Dear Sir, pray that such a mind may be given to

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

G. W.

LETTER CCXCVIII.

To the Rev. Mr. S――, at Worcester.

London, June 13, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Thank you heartily for your last kind letter: As you are so aged and infirm, I take it as an especial favour, that you are pleased to write to me. You need make no apology, reverend Sir, for your plain dealing: I love those best, who deal most sincerely with me. Whatever errors I have been, or shall be guilty of in my ministry, I hope the Lord will shew me, and give me grace to amend. This is the language of my heart;

Correct me when I go astray,

And lead me in the perfect way.

I also thank you, dear Sir, for your kind benefaction. My arrears upon the Orphan-house are yet large; but I hope ere long the Lord will enable me to pay them all. At present, I am kept from doubting. Unworthy as I am, Jesus Christ is yet with me, and is pleased daily to strengthen me both in soul and body. My ministry (for ever adored be sovereign grace) is attended with a continual power. I am shortly going a large circuit, perhaps as far as Scotland. Dear Sir, let your prayers follow after me.—I am a poor, weak, unworthy worm; as such be pleased to remember, reverend and dear Sir,

Your obedient, though unworthy brother and servant in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER CCXCIX.

To Mr. J―― C――, at Bristol.

Hertford, July 1, 1741.

My dear Brother,

THE Lord has been with me greatly, ever since I left London.—I have been enabled to preach twice every day, and to ride several miles. The congregations have been every where very large. God’s presence has accompanied the word. People’s hearts have been enlarged. Within these few days, we have collected near a hundred pounds for the poor orphans. Numbers of souls, I believe, are under convictions. In some places we have had near ten thousand hearers. Invitations are so pressing, that I purpose going another circuit to Bedford, and to preach in the counties round about for near a fortnight, and then return to London. I hope the Lord is with you; I am somewhat weak in body, but sweet and comfortable in my soul. Dear J―― joins with me in love to you and all. Pray for,

Yours in the best bonds,

G. W.

LETTER CCC.

To Mr. J―― H――, at Savannah.

Colchester, July 12, 1741.

My very dear Friend and Brother,

I Have not heard from you since you wrote last January. I have been a circuit into Hertfordshire, Essex, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Suffolk. I have been enabled to preach twice daily, and to ride several miles. Congregations have been surprisingly large; the word is attended with power, and the alarm in the country rather greater than ever. Contributions arise and increase. You are all much upon my heart. God will yet provide for you. I write this in great haste. God gives me much of his presence. I am more and more convinced, that evangelizing is my proper business at present. God gives me great access every where. The Lord be with you all, Amen and Amen! To the best of my knowledge, I have neglected no opportunity of writing. I am

Ever yours in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER [CCC.]

To Mr. J―― H――, at London.

Coggeshall, July 13, 1741.

I Received your letter at Bury; but cannot think matters are quite ripe, or you duly qualified for settling a church. God lets me see more and more, that I must evangelize. I find you are for settling: do as God shall direct, I am easy. I only wish you may find settled persons to be your assistants. Without this, a church cannot be rightly ordered. I have no freedom, but in going about to all denominations. I cannot join with any one, so as to be fixed in any particular place. Every one hath his proper gift. Field-preaching is my plan: In this I am carried as on eagles wings. God makes way for me every where. The work of the Lord increases. I am comforted night and day. O free grace to such an hell-deserving sinner! I pray God to give you a right judgment in all things. I am, dear brother H――,

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCI.

To Mrs. D――, at Gransden.

London, July 17, 1741.

My dear Sister,

I Bless God that I saw you at Gransden. The Lord was with us, and has been with me the remaining part of my journey. We shall yet see greater things than these. Wonderful things from abroad. The inclosed will shew you, how desirous my family is of corresponding with you. Pray write to my dear little orphans, boys and girls. God, I hear, hath been working powerfully upon their hearts. I would have you also write to Mr. J―― B――, a converted planter; to Mrs. B――, his kinswoman, who has lately received the assurance of faith; to Mr. C――, a dear baptist minister; to Mrs. S――, who is carried on the wings of faith and love; and to my dear Mr. H――, who is Superintendant of the Orphan-house affairs. You will excuse this freedom. I am willing your usefulness should be as extensive as may be. May the Lord bless you ever, more and more. I expect to go to Scotland shortly. A ship will soon sail towards Georgia. Write soon, dear Mrs. D――, to

Your affectionate brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCII.

To Mr. G―― H――, in Gloucester.

London, July 18, 1741.

My dear Friend,

GOD has mightily blessed my journey in the country. Thousands, and ten thousands, have flocked to hear the word. It was attended with power, and near a hundred and eighty pounds were collected for the Orphan-house. I know you will give thanks on my behalf. On Thursday morning, God willing, I hope to embark for Scotland: I am persuaded the Lord calls me thither. Invitations, both from the Seceders, and others that do not secede from the Kirk, are very strong. I should be glad of a line next post. It is now near eleven at night. I hope my friends will accept my thanks for their kind benefactions to the dear orphans, and with their prayers follow, dear Mr. H――,

Ever yours in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCIII.

To Mr. B―― S――.

Lewisham, July 23, 1741.

Dear Sir,

THOUGH I have but little time, yet I must redeem a little to answer your kind letter. God is doing great things, both at home and abroad. The inclosed will in some measure inform you. Every day our Lord appears for us in the great congregations. Weak as I am in myself, the Lord is my strength. O, dear Sir, I am a worm and no man; I deserve to be the outcast of the people, and yet the Lord delights to honour me. Free, free grace! I long to be above, that I may praise God as I desire. In about two days I hope to embark for Scotland. I will come and visit you when providence permits. In the mean while, I beg that you will pray that the glorious Jesus would bless all my poor endeavours to promote his glory! My love to all that love the dear Emmanuel. In his great name, I subscribe myself

Your affectionate brother and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCIV.

To Mr. G―― H――, at Gloucester.

Lewisham, July 23, 1741.

My very dear Friend,

I Thought to have embarked this morning for Scotland, but am likely to be detained a day or two. I must therefore send you a line. Wonderful things is the Lord doing for me. In the country I meet with surprising success. In London I see such things that I never saw in England before. A mighty power almost continually accompanies the word. The Lord Jesus is pleased to strengthen me very much in the inner man. O, my dear friend, give thanks for, and pray that I may walk humbly with my God. The Lord be with you and yours. I hope both you and dear Mrs. H―― do keep close to God. My love to all that love the dear Lord Jesus. God willing, you shall have a line from Scotland. Wonderful news is come from abroad, which will ere long rejoice your heart, and cause you to give thanks in behalf of, my dear Mr. H――,

Ever yours in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCV.

To Mr. T――, at Colchester.

Lewisham, July 23, 1741.

Dear Sir,

PROVIDENCE detaining me one day more, I snatch a few moments to answer your kind letter, and to return Mr. A―― thanks for his kind present. How good is the blessed Jesus to me the chief of sinners! He takes care both of my body and soul. His power has attended me lately, more than ever it did before in England. God’s right hand is bringing mighty things to pass. I earnestly intreat our Lord, that you may live above the world, and be dead to all things here below. Dear Sir, there is nothing like a life of faith. It is a glorious thing to be able to say, “Not I live, but Christ liveth in me.” Then, are we christians indeed, when we come to live on the invisible realities of another world. This, and this only, is true and undefiled religion. May God make you a lively partaker thereof. I hope my kind respects will find acceptance with Messrs. V――, D――, J――, and all friends. Fail not to pray for

Your affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCVI.

To Mr. B――.

Greenwich, July 24, 1741.

My very dear B――,

TO-MORROW, God willing, I embark for Scotland, and hope to redeem time abroad to answer my dear lambs letters: They rejoiced me exceedingly. What I have done with yours, the inclosed will shew. Pray be particular in your accounts. Much good has been done by those sent already. You cannot tell how many hearty prayers are put up for you all, daily. May they enter into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth! The work is beginning afresh in England. The Holy Ghost descends in a glorious manner, amidst the congregation. Weak, unworthy as I am, Jesus Christ works in and by me. O sovereign free grace! I have sent the letter to Mrs. D――. I have lately seen her. Her conversation is as weighty as her letters. You will receive more from her, I hope, before it be long. I believe you are where God would have you to be. I despair not of seeing your mouth opened remarkably for God. O that the dear Jesus may bless you, and the whole houshold! I should rejoice to see you, but God, I believe, will detain me here the Winter. Mr. P――’s brother is to pay for the use of the Orphan-house seventy-five pounds. Shortly I hope to send you fresh supplies. In the mean while I assure you all, that you are constantly upon my heart. My head pains me; good night. The Lord be with you all. Expect to hear again very speedily from, dear Brother B――,

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCVII.

To Mr. I―― B――, at South-Carolina.

Greenwich, July 24, 1741.

Dear Mr. B――,

WITH much pleasure I received your kind letter. Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who I trust hath begotten you, and called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. What an honour is it, that we should be counted worthy to suffer the least degree of reproach for his great name sake? I am ashamed to think how little I do, or suffer for him. O free grace! sovereign and electing love! how sweet to the soul, who really feels the power of it! May we walk worthy of that holy vocation wherewith we are called! I hear your brother is dead; happy soul! you and I shall go and see him by and by. I thank you heartily for your kindness to the dear orphans. I am sure God will amply repay you. The Lord be with you and yours. I must away to the ship bound for Scotland. I will answer dear Mrs. B――’s letter, when I get on board. Adieu. O pray for

Ever yours in Jesus Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCVIII.

To Mr. I―― F――, at Charles-Town.

Greenwich, July 24, 1741.

Dear Mr. F――,

I Rejoice to hear the Lord is carrying on a good work in your soul. I hope you will not think all is done, because you have been baptized and received into full communion. I know too too many that “make a Christ of their adult baptism,” and rest in that, instead of the righteousness of the blessed Jesus. God forbid that you should so learn Christ. O my dear friend, seek after a settlement in our dear Lord, so that you may experience that life which is hid with Christ in God. Dear Mrs. F――, I thank you heartily for your kind letter. It rejoices my soul to hear, that you and Mr. F―― are going on hand in hand to heaven. This is the sacred end of marriage; to be helpers of each other in the great things of God. I am not yet entered into that state. I am looking up to Christ, and shall wait his direction. The gospel runs, and is glorified. The work is beginning a fresh in England. Never was my preaching attended with so great power on this side the water. Our Lord pours his comforts into my soul, and rejoices me with the glad news I hear from your parts. May you all increase and multiply in every good word and work. My most tender love to all. As fast as possibly I can, each shall hear from, my dear friends,

Ever yours,

G. W.

LETTER CCCIX.

To Mr. H――, at Georgia.

Greenwich, July 24, 1741.

My very dear Friend and Brother,

BEFORE the boat comes to take me down to the ship, I would write you a line or two. I greatly rejoice to hear that you live in love. But I shall not be surprised, if, after this remarkable work of the spirit, you meet with some trials. But fear not: we are all in the Mediator’s hands. I find all things work together for my good, and so I am sure you will. My dear friends, I know you sympathize with me.—Indeed, I also do with you. My dear, dear family, you are continually upon my heart. I redeem a moment or two as often as I can to write to you. God only knows how I love and long after you in the bowels of the ever-blessed Jesus. O may you lean on his bosom, and may his banner over you be love. Adieu! for the present. I must soon away to the ship. I have ordered hats and shoes for the children, and intend sending brother H――’s order and other things, with some cash, very shortly. But the arrears hang on me yet. My Lord bears my burden; may he bear all yours for you! I am persuaded he will. With great tenderness I subscribe myself, dear Mr. H――,

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

G. W.

LETTER CCCX.

To Mrs. S――, at Charles-Town.

In a boat going to Gravesend, July 24, 1741.

Dear Mrs. S――,

I Am now in a boat, in order to embark for Scotland. I have the conveniency of writing upon a trunk, and therefore cannot be easy without sending you a line. I rejoice to hear that you are carried upon the wings of love. Methinks I see you sitting under the Redeemer’s shadow with great delight, and exalting his free grace in plucking you as a brand out of the fire. O when shall we go to heaven, that we may praise God for what he hath done for our poor souls! The Lord is better to me than ever. Conviction, and conversion, both in town and country, are beginning again. The divine presence is much manifested in our assemblies. Blessed be the Lord, who is also working with you. The spiritual prosperity of the orphan family, rejoices my heart. God will ere long, I believe, make a separation between the precious and the vile. Poor Mr. G――, Commissary G――d, and Chief Justice W――, bitter, bitter, though unsuccessful persecutors, what will become of you? O that God may grant them repentance unto life! What reason have you and I, dear Mrs. S――, to exalt rich distinguishing grace! ’Tis that alone hath made the difference. I believe I need not remind you to pray, dear Mrs. S――, for

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXI.

To Serjeant B――, at Gibraltar.

On board the Mary and Ann, bound from London to Leith, July 25, 1741.

Dear Mr. B――,

I Am glad to hear that you are yet alive, and what is more, I trust you are alive to God. Perhaps I may never see you again on this side eternity. O that we may approve ourselves good soldiers of Jesus Christ! How bright will our crown be then, at that last great day! I find there is nothing like being valiant for the truth. Jesus Christ is a glorious captain. He makes me more than conqueror through his love. I have seen great things, within these few months. I should have answered you sooner, but could not get time till now: I am embarked for Scotland. I hope you take particular care to beat down self-righteousness, and exalt the Lord Jesus alone in your hearts. I find, the only happiness is to lie down as a poor sinner at the feet of the once crucified, but now exalted Lamb of God, who died for our sins and rose again for our justification. I rejoice to hear, that some even at Gibraltar still dare to own a too too much neglected Saviour. Blessed be God, the governor is so favourable to you. This is a great motive to love and thankfulness. The work of God still goes on in England, and other parts. O for that glorious period, when the whole earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the seas! That our dear Lord may every day reign as king in all your souls, is the prayer of, dear Serjeant,

Your affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXII.

To Miss R――.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741.

Dear Miss,

A Few hours ago I came on board. To shew that you are in my mind, I employ some of my first leisure time in answering your letter. The condition you are in now, ought not to make you think that Jesus Christ has cast you off, and that it will be presumption in you to believe on him. The Lord is now shewing you, that you are poor, and miserable, and blind, and naked, and such only are the persons that think they want his almighty aid. I fear you look too much into yourself, and from thence are discouraged. Whereas you should look directly to Christ, and come to him in all your blood. You will always fly from him, as long as you count him your enemy. But do not think so hardly of him; Jesus is the sinner’s friend. O how doth his bowels yearn towards you! Are you made willing to be made whole? Christ invites and commands you to come to him; venture then upon him. If you never have believed yet, it is time for you to believe now. “Lord, give me faith!” for faith is the free gift of God. What if your heart be hard, Jesus can soften it. What if you have yet no marks of your election? surely you dare not say, “You are not elected,” or that Christ hath not died for you, even for you. It is, indeed, a bad thing to have only notions in the head, and no solid experience in the heart. But it is a good thing to be convinced of this. Blessed be God, who hath given you to bewail it. Look upon this as a token for good.—Trust not to means; when they are taken from you, Christ can and will work without them. The Lord may bring you help in a way, and at a time you know not of. Your extremity shall be God’s opportunity. If the Lord vouchsafes to bless this letter in the least degree to your comfort, it will much rejoice the heart of, dear Miss,

Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXIII.

To Mr. J―― H――, at Georgia.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741.

My dear Brother,

WITH much pleasure I have again read over your kind letter. God is a God hearing prayer. My dear brother H―― is awakened out of sleep. Help me men, help me angels, to praise God in his behalf! My dear brother, I pray God you may never lie down again. Christ is now giving you light; walk and rejoice in that light. Keep close, keep close, my dear man, and let nothing steal away your poor heart from the blessed Jesus. Give it all to him, give it to him, hard, earthly, sensual, devilish, as it is. He will wash it in his precious blood. Do not tie him down to any degree of conviction. So that he brings you home, let him do it in that way he shall think best. What a loving Saviour have you to deal with! You cannot conceive how kind he is, even to me every day. I feel and see his power more and more. He seems to be beginning his work afresh in England, and it gladdens my heart to hear he is among you at Bethesda. O do nothing to grieve the blessed spirit! Let your conversation be such in all things, as becomes the gospel of the blessed Jesus. Have the greatest regard for the little lambs. Do nothing that may prove a stumbling block to their precious souls. Warm yourself by talking to them. Be not one moment idle. Redeem your precious time; for you know not when your Lord may come. My brother, my heart is full of love to thee.—May you be a beloved physician! Beloved of the Lord, beloved of the Lord’s people, and a continual comfort to

Your most unworthy, though truly affectionate brother, and servant in the dear Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXIV.

To Mr. Wm. G――.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741.

My dear Brother G――,

YOUR kind letter I have just been reading over a second time. It gave me comfort; but the high stile extorted a smile or two from me. I believe you have been reading over Mrs. D――’s letters. You wanted to imitate her way of writing, but fail for want of her experience. It is a good thing not to go out of our depth. Methinks I see you look down and blush; but look up again immediately to Jesus Christ: He knows whereof we are made, and remembers we are but dust. Indeed I write to my dear man out of much love. Blessed be God, that all things are carried on with such decency and order. I pray God that you may so live, that all who come to see you may say, “Surely God is in this place.” Your prayers in my behalf are heard. I am quickened, and strengthened mightily both in soul and body: controversial points are ended, and the Lord Jesus Christ triumphs gloriously. I find my heart often drawn towards Bethesda. I hope I shall yet meet you again in the flesh, and embrace you one by one in my unworthy arms. In the mean time, I commit you to the bosom of Jesus. May you lean upon his breast, and sit under his shadow with great delight! May you be truly simple, truly childlike, and every way conformable to our great exemplar the spotless Lamb. I long for that time, when we shall sit down at his marriage supper: though I have the lowest place, it will suffice, dear brother G――,

Your affectionate brother, friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXV.

To Mr. J―― S――, at Georgia.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741.

Dear John,

YOUR case puts me in mind of that passage, where we are told that our Lord looked upon Peter. Surely, he has looked upon and prayed for you, otherwise how would Satan have sifted you? But see what comfort another passage may afford you, “Go tell my brethren and Peter.” Poor, weeping, penitent Peter must in no wise be forgotten. “Go tell them that I am risen.” Here are glad tidings of great joy to a disconsolate soul. May God apply it to your’s in particular. Dear John, may you learn from hence to stab your dear Saviour no more. I wonder not that you are in darkness. God will surely visit your offences with a rod, and your backslidings with some spiritual scourge. That is enough to keep us from sinning, though we know that his loving-kindness he will not utterly take from us, nor suffer his truth to fail. How dearly did David pay for his stolen sweets? What anguish has your poor soul felt, since I left you. Blessed be God, that he has awakened you out of sleep. O free grace! I rejoice, yea and I will rejoice. That you may never provoke God to leave you to yourself, is the earnest prayer of, dear John,

Ever yours,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXVI.

To Rebekah B――, an Orphan at the Orphan-house.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741.

Dear Bekky,

AND is the Lord still striving with you? O then admire his patience, and give him your whole heart. I had no other end in bringing you to Bethesda, but that you might be brought to Jesus. I hope you will yet find it a house of mercy to your soul. Take heed of resting in conviction. You know by experience how sadly it wears off. You may well wonder, that God has not sent you to hell long ago. I pray God, that his goodness may lead you to repentance, and that you may walk before the Lord in all well-pleasing, so long as you live. What sweet opportunities do you enjoy! How freely may you go into the woods, and pour out your heart before the dear Jesus. How early was Samuel acquainted with the Lord, and why should not you be acquainted with him? Unless you are, you can never be at peace. Come then, my dear lamb, and wander no longer; return to the shepherd and bishop of your soul. Behold, he shed his blood for you, and will carry you to heaven, rejoicing over you to all eternity. Away to him then in all your blood, just as you are; and when you are near to God, forget not

Your affectionate friend,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXVII.

To Elizabeth G――, an Orphan.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741.

Dear Betty,

I Am glad you begin to feel the hardness of your heart, and your utter inability to pray. I pray God you may in all things see your helplessness, that you may come as a poor helpless nothing to Jesus Christ, and take him for your all in all. I wonder not that satan endeavours to terrify your soul. You know how he tore the young child in the Gospel, whilst he was coming to Jesus Christ. Your convictions at present seem to arise from a fear of hell; but before you receive this, I hope the Lord Jesus will have sealed your pardon, and have said, “Be of good cheer, thy sins are forgiven thee.” O Betty, why has God singled you out? Why was you brought to Bethesda? Away when you read this, and bless God for it, and devote yourself again and again to that Lord, who has bought you with his precious blood. Having much forgiven you, love much. Lie down in the dust, and be continually looking to the rock from whence you are hewn. To hear that you, and my dear family, love the Lord Jesus in sincerity, will much rejoice the heart of

Your sincere friend,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXVIII.

To Mary A――, an Orphan.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741.

Dear Molly,

UPON reading your letter, I put up this prayer, “Lord lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon her soul.” You once had joy. I found it puffed you up. I pray God to humble you by your present darkness. You may now see what a poor wretch you are, how proud, how earthly, how sensual, how devilish; and yet, stupendous love! Jesus Christ will still receive you. Your loving Saviour opens his arms, and invites you to throw the whole of your load upon him. I am persuaded he will receive you: go to him then, and confess that you have sinned. He will receive you; for what says the scripture? “Look unto me, all ye ends of the earth, and be ye saved.” Surely Molly A―― is included here. The dear Jesus is all love. He has brought you to a house of mercy. Out of love, keep his commandments, and love all that are around you. Be willing to be the servant of all, and from gratitude to God study to be a comfort to

Your sincere friend in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXIX.

To the Honourable J―― B――, Esq.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741.

Hon. Sir,

WITH much pleasure I received yours by the hands of your son, who offered to do me any service that lay in his power. This, as well as your other past favours, quite surprize, and ought to humble me; for who am I, that I should be thus highly honoured? O sovereign grace! O distinguishing love! If I did not stand up in defence of that, the very stones would cry out against me. Indeed, honoured Sir, your kindness makes me almost to blush, and the love of Jesus quite confounds me. I am lost, I want to sink into nothing whenever I think of Christ’s dying for me. I really think, I am the most ungrateful sinner that ever was, and yet the Redeemer follows me with his mercies every day. Unspeakable are the trials wherewith I have been visited since my arrival. But out of all the Lord delivers me. I experience daily much of his divine presence; a wider door than ever is opened for preaching the everlasting gospel, and God seems to be beginning his work again in Old-England: it adds to my joy, to hear what the Lord is doing amongst you. Blessed, for ever blessed be God, for causing such a stirring among the dry bones. I pray the glorious Redeemer, to carry on the good work begun, and to make New-England the joy of the whole earth. I suppose you have heard, honoured Sir, of the remarkable effusion of the spirit among the children of the orphan-house. Surely, Jesus Christ is about to bring mighty things to pass. Whilst the kings of the earth are enlarging their dominions, I trust our Lord will usher in his.—I shall not be surprized, if after this great commotion in New-England, I hear that some outward troubles befal them. The removal of you, honoured Sir, from being governor, I take to be no good sign. I hope this has no other effect upon your own heart, than to make you more and more hunger and thirst after that righteousness, which neither men nor devils shall ever be able to take from you. God only knows, how often I have prayed, that this affliction may be sanctified unto you. I think, honoured Sir, I cannot forget you and your people. Both are dear, very dear to my soul. I sometimes long to see Boston again, that I may rejoice in what great things the Lord has done; but various circumstances concur to detain me on this side the ocean, all the next Winter. I am now in my passage to Scotland. What the Lord is pleased to do there, your honour may hear in my next. I rejoice, that I am a little retired from the world, and have the opportunity, honoured Sir, of writing to you. How sweet is retirement when Christ is present in the heart? Having him, I find I possess all things. Happy they that can wrap themselves in God. May you and yours be thus happy! This will enable you, honoured Sir, to rejoice in tribulation, and give thanks for every thing that does befal you. Tho’ the ship is moving, and I am somewhat sick, I know not how to leave off. Indeed, I love and honour you in the bowels of Jesus Christ. That you and yours may be rooted and grounded in his love, and filled with all the fulness of God, is the hearty prayer of, honoured Sir,

Your most affectionate, obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXX.

To the Reverend Dr. C――, at Boston.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741.

Rev. and dear Sir,

I Had the pleasure of yours, and have taken the freedom to publish part of it, because I thought our Lord’s cause might be promoted thereby. Glory be to the ever blessed Jesus, for the great work begun in your province. Glory be to his great name, for raising up instruments to carry it on; especially for working so powerfully among the sons of the prophets. A most promising omen this for dear New-England. Reverend Sir, the searcher of hearts only knows, how deeply the welfare of your people is impressed upon my soul. I continually make mention of them in my poor prayers, both public and private, and have not failed to give thanks in their behalf. You seem a little offended, that I did not mention old Mr. W――s. It was, because by his conversation I could not find he came up to that character which you gave him. Mr. S―― I truly value, and lately have had reason to think much better of him than formerly, when his experiences to me seemed too superficial; but I am a poor, weak, fallible worm, and therefore my judgment is of little worth. I rejoice to hear that the ministers with you help forward the work of God. I find no such enemies to the cross of Christ, as those who keep up the form of religion, and are orthodox in their notions, but are ignorant of an experimental acquaintance with Jesus. However, the work of God is beginning afresh. I have free access every where, and have been upon the full stretch preaching to large auditories twice a day, for some time past. The Lord is pleased to strengthen me both in body and soul. His presence fills the assemblies, and, I verily believe, we shall yet see glorious days. I have sweet accounts from the Orphans. I thank you, dear Sir, for your care concerning them. I have been in great straits; but the dear Jesus helps me through them all. Help me, dear Sir, help me to praise him. My tender love awaits both you and your people. I am glad to hear, that my kind hostess is recovered. May the Lord strengthen her mightily, and cause her to go down to the grave in peace! I earnestly desire a continuance of your own and people’s prayers in behalf of, reverend Sir,

Your affectionate brother in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXI.

To John D――, at Boston.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741.

My dear child,

I Thank you for your letter: I neither forgot you nor my promise. O that God may effectually work upon your heart betimes, for you cannot be good too soon, or too good. The little orphans at Georgia are crying out, “What shall we do to be saved?” And I am glad to hear, that this is the language of some little ones in New-England. If you know any of them, pray give my love to them, and tell them, I pray that Jesus Christ may be revealed in their dear hearts. How early was Jesus Christ in the Temple, first hearing, and then asking questions? How did he love the little children, how did he take them up in his sacred arms and bless them; and when he was just ascending to the highest heaven, how tenderly did he speak to Peter, and bid him “feed his lambs.” Let all this encourage you to come unto him. He will certainly receive you, tho’ you have been wicked; nay, he will abundantly pardon you. And what comfort will you enjoy, when you know your sins are forgiven you? You will then have a heaven upon earth. In expectation of seeing you a christian indeed, and grown in grace, I subscribe myself

Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXII.

To the Honourable J―― W――, at Boston.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741.

Honoured Sir,

PRESUMING it would not be disagreeable to you, I have taken the liberty to print part of the letter you was so kind as to send me. Surely it will rejoice the hearts of thousands, to hear what good things the Lord is doing in these parts. It has put much gladness into my heart, and caused me to give many thanks in behalf of the people of New-England. How good is our God! When things are a little troublesome without, he sends his gospel to comfort his children within. Surely Jesus Christ is about to set the world in a flame. He is working powerfully at home; he is working powerfully abroad. I trust he will continue working, ’till the earth be filled with the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea. I hope you will yet feel more of this light and life in your own heart, before you go hence, and be comforted with the comforts wherewith I am daily comforted of God. Dear Sir, Jesus is a precious Master. He, as it were, dandles me upon his knees. He carries me in his arms, he fights all my battles, and makes me more than conqueror thro’ his love. My work is great, but my supports are greater. He assures me from day to day, that he will never leave me nor forsake me. My infirmities often make me blush, and yet Jesus passes them all by. Dear Sir, think often on the love of Christ: think of his dying love; that must give you comfort. I rejoice at this opportunity of writing to you. I thank you for your kind caution. I pray God to teach me how to improve it. Help me, dear Sir, with your prayers; and accept of these few lines from, honoured Sir,

Your most affectionate brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXIII.

To Mr. E―― D――, at Boston.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741.

Dear Mr. D――,

I Am to be blamed for not sending you a line. I am an ungrateful creature; ungrateful to my earthly friends, unspeakably more so to the friend of all. Pardon me this once. God willing, you shall have no reason to complain of me any more. If you remember, once in my sermon I said, “O that New-England was full of new creatures!” I hope the Lord in some measure is going to answer that prayer.—It rejoices my heart, to hear that the gospel runs so swiftly, and is so remarkably glorified amongst you. This is the Lord’s doings, and it ought to be marvellous in our eyes. Blessed are the eyes that see the things which we see; blessed are the ears that hear the things which we hear, for many righteous men have desired to see and hear them, and have not. I rejoice also to hear, that there is like to be a church in your house. O, dear Sir, take care that none of you rest, till you have got fast hold of the blessed Jesus. My kind love to dear Mrs. D――. May Christ’s justifying blood be upon you and your children. I return my love to all that are so kind as to remember me. I believe I shall not see you this Winter. The work is very great, and goes on very prosperous in England. However, you are all upon my heart, and the more heartily you pray for me, the sooner shall I be restored unto you. I hope I feel the benefit of your dear people’s prayers; for God comforts and strengthens me daily, and carries me on from conquering to conquer. On shore, I have scarce time to write a line; being now on board, I take this opportunity of returning you my hearty thanks for your kind letter, and of assuring you that I am, dear Mr. D――,

Your affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXIV.

To the Rev. Mr. R――, at Boston.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 26, 1741.

My dear Brother R――,

HOW glad was I to receive a letter from your hands, having heard nothing of, or from you particularly, since we parted. What great things has the Lord shewn us since that time. Methinks I hear you say, “and yet I can tell of greater things.” I believe we shall see far greater yet before we die. The work is beginning afresh here. I sometimes think B―― G―― must take a voyage over to Old-England. Most of our London ministers too much shun the cross, and do not appear boldly for God.—Now the Lord hath worked so powerfully in your college, I have less to say against your joining with Mr. W――. I am glad to hear you speak plainly and closely. What comfort will this afford you in a dying hour? Go on, my dear brother, go on; venture daily upon Christ, go out in his strength, and he will enable you to do wonders. He is with me more and more. I have been sweetly carried thro’ the heat and burden of every day’s labour. Jesus bears all my burdens. Jesus enables me to cast all my cares upon him. O then let us magnify his name together! I am now going to Scotland, knowing not what will befal me. What God does, you may expect to hear shortly. In the mean while, let us pray for and write to each other. As iron sharpeneth iron, so doth the letters of a man his friend. Your last I have printed: God’s glory called me to it. My dear brother, adieu! Dear Brother S―― sits by and salutes you. My kind love awaits Mr. W――, and all that love the Lord Jesus in sincerity. In hopes of receiving another letter from you shortly, I subscribe myself, dear Mr. R.

Your very affectionate, tho’ very unworthy brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXV.

To the Students, &c. under convictions at the colleges of Cambridge and New-haven,—in New-England and Connecticut.

Dear Gentlemen,

WITH unspeakable pleasure have I heard, that there seems to be a general concern among you about the things of God. It was no small grief to me, that I was obliged to say of your college, that “your light was become darkness;” yet are ye now become light in the Lord. I heartily thank God, even the Father of our glorious Redeemer, for sending dear Mr. T―― among you. What great things may we not now expect to see in New-England, since it has pleased God to work so remarkably among the sons of the prophets? Now we may expect a reformation indeed, since it is beginning at the house of God. A dead ministry will always make a dead people. Whereas, if ministers are warmed with the love of God themselves, they cannot but be instruments of diffusing that love among others. This, this is the best preparation for the work whereunto you are to be called. Learning without piety, will only make you more capable of promoting the kingdom of satan. Henceforward, therefore, I hope you will enter into your studies not to get a parish, nor to be polite preachers, but to be great saints. This, indeed, is the most compendious way to true learning: for an understanding enlightened by the spirit of God, is more susceptible of divine truths, and I am certain will prove most useful to mankind. The more holy you are, the more will God delight to honour you. He loves to make use of instruments, which are like himself. I hope the good old divinity will now be precious to your souls, and you will think it an honour to tread in the steps of your pious forefathers. They were acquainted with their own hearts.—They knew what it was to be tempted themselves, and therefore from their own experience knew how to succour others. O may you follow them, as they followed Christ. Then great, very great will be your reward in heaven. I am sure you can never serve a better Master than Jesus Christ, or be engaged in a higher employ than in calling home souls to him. I trust, dear gentlemen, you will not be offended at me for sending you these few lines. I write out of the fulness of my heart. I make mention of you always in my prayers. Forget me not in yours. I am a poor weak worm. I am the chief of sinners, and yet, O stupendous love! the Lord’s work still prospers in my unworthy hands.—Fail not to give thanks, as well as to pray for

Your affectionate brother and servant, in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXVI.

To Mr. D――, at Boston.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 25, 1741.

Dear Sir,

YOUR’s as well as other letters, which I received from Boston, gave me no small satisfaction. Now, now I live, if poor sinners are flocking for life to the dear Lord Jesus. How may we suppose the angels to be rejoicing over Boston, and other places in New-England! How glad are they to see the lectures frequented as in times of old, and the spirit of your good forefathers reviving among you! Sure it must be delightful to see black and white, young men and maidens, old men and children, praising the name of the Lord. Blessed be God, who in this great awakening hath not passed by your house. Fear not, dear Sir: Who knows but the blessed Jesus may yet visit you with the light of his blessed countenance? I rejoice to hear he has been gracious to your wife and daughter. I pray God, you may be all built up in our most holy faith, and go on from strength to strength, till you come to appear before the Lord Christ in glory. I thank God, who hath heard prayer on my behalf. I am strengthened daily both in body and soul, and have reason to think my ministry is blessed more and more. Let God’s goodness to me, encourage you to expect great things from our Lord. He is able and willing to do for us more abundantly than we can ask or think. That you and your dear family may daily drink of his divine pleasures, as out of a river, is the earnest prayer of, dear Sir,

Your affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXVII.

To John R――, an Orphan, at the Orphan-house.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741.

Dear John,

I Remember you once wanted to go away from Bethesda. Adore the free grace and mercy of that God, who has kept you there. I trust, it will prove the saving of your precious and immortal soul. To see oneself lost and condemned by nature, is the first step to conversion. I hope before this time you have found yourself saved by grace: for “by grace alone you are to be saved, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God.” The Lord Jesus hath indeed been knocking at the door of your heart. I trust, now he will break the door open, and give himself admission. Dear John, you may well wonder, that the Lord hath not sent you to hell. I trust, that you feel you deserve it. O that God may pluck you as a brand out of the burning. This was my only view in bringing you to Bethesda. This is the only desire of the dear friends who have the rule over you; they watch for your soul, &c. The devil (as you observe) watches to destroy it: and, therefore, my dear boy, away to Jesus Christ. He can take away the heart of stone: he can give you an heart of flesh. All things are possible with Him. That God may give you grace to take the kingdom of heaven with a holy violence, is the hearty prayer of, dear John,

Your sincere friend,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXVIII.

To James M――, an Orphan.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741.

Dear James,

I Am glad to hear by dear brother B――’s letters, that your soul has received comfort. I am comforted at the news. May God increase it daily, ’till your joy be full. I must think God loves you, and that he has begun a good work in your soul. I hope to find at my return that it is carried on, and that you have been pressing forward towards the mark for the prize of your high calling in Christ Jesus your saviour. Dear James, I do not forget you. I hope you never will forget the love of Christ, who died and hath given himself for you. Does not the very thought of this make you even to weep? Do you not want some private place where to vent your heart? Away then, I will detain you no longer. Retire into the woods. Go look to him whom you have pierced, and with a godly sorrow mourn for your sins, as a woman for her first-born. At the same time, forget not to sigh out a prayer in behalf of, dear James,

Your affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXIX.

To Thomas Webb, an Orphan.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741.

Dear Thomas,

HOW inconsistent is the devil! How artfully does he strive to keep poor souls from Christ! Sometimes he labours to drive poor souls into despair; sometimes to presumption. These are the two rocks, against which he would fain have poor souls to make shipwreck of faith and a good conscience. I pray God to enable you to steer a middle course.—May you see your misery, and at the same time see your remedy in the cross and wounds of Jesus Christ. He calls to all weary heavy laden souls; consequently he calls you. Your coming to him, will be a proof of your election. The devils know nothing of God’s decrees. If ever he should tempt you so again, say, “If I do perish, I will perish at the feet of Christ.” He is willing to save, to save to the uttermost. He sees, he feels your anguish. He longs to rejoice over you. Venture therefore upon him. Thomas, be not faithless, but believing. Christ shall yet shew you his hands and his feet. He is the same now, as he was yesterday, full of love and condescension to self-condemned sinners. That you may experience the full power and efficacy of the Redeemer’s blood, is the ardent prayer of, dear Thomas,

Your sincere friend,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXX.

To William B――.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741.

I Thought your father had sent for you from Bethesda; but I hope your heavenly Father has kept you there to bring you home to himself. Your deadness has often grieved me. O that I may have reason to sing, at my return, “Billy B―― was dead, but is alive again; he was lost, but is found.” You do well to pray to God, to search your heart, and to try your reins; for otherwise your treacherous heart will deceive you. I would not have you forget what the Lord is doing for you, for ten thousand worlds. O defer not repentance to a death-bed. It will be hard to strive with principalities and powers, when you can scarce turn in your bed. A man, at that time, can hardly bear up under his bodily infirmities; but a wounded spirit who can bear? Reject, therefore, such a horrid temptation, with the utmost abhorrence. Be a worker together with God; and now God is working in you to will and to do, see that you work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. Do not stab your Saviour any more. Dear Billy, think on his bitter agony and bloody sweat, and fly to him, as a Redeemer ready and willing to receive you. That you may be happy in him here, and with him hereafter, is the hearty prayer of

Your sincere friend,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXXI.

To R―― W――, an Orphan.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741.

Dear Richard,

THE contents of your letter pleased me. I have sometimes thought, if God did not convert Richard W――, he would be one of the most unhappy boys in the world. You have head-knowledge; and unless you are made to see the sinfulness of your heart, it will much increase your condemnation. Blessed be God, who yet hath patience with you, and seems to be striving with your soul. I do not wonder that the devil tells you, “it is time to repent when you are a man.” You may well say, it is the devil that tells you so: Such a suggestion cannot come from God. Behold, now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation! Jesus will even now accept you, vile as you are, and ungrateful as you have been: if you feel your misery, and fly to him for succour, he will accept you. Every conviction cries, “Come, Richard, come to me, that thou mayest have rest.” Let me advise you, as old Eli advised young Samuel: say, “Speak, Lord, for thy servant heareth.”

I am your sincere friend,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXXII.

To John F――, an Orphan.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741.

Dear John,

I Willingly fulfil your request, and sit down to write you a line or two. I am glad you begin to see the wickedness of your own heart. You cannot conceive what a mystery of iniquity is hid therein. The more you see it, the more you will find the want of a saviour, and adore God for giving his dear Son to die for sinners. There was once a young man, named John, who leaned on the Saviour’s bosom, and was his particular favourite. What if you should be thus highly honoured. Would it not be an amazing instance of love and condescension? And what doth the Saviour do less, for all that feel themselves poor, lost, undone sinners? Nay, does he not do for them infinitely more? Yes, he does. Come to him, therefore, by faith, and he shall embrace you in the arms of his mercy, clothe you with his righteousness, sanctify you by his spirit, guide you by his counsel, and after death receive you up into glory. Look up, then, and never rest till you have it. Conviction is not conversion. But you know who has promised not to quench the smoaking flax, or break the bruised reed. That this promise may be fulfilled in your soul, is the hearty prayer of

Your sincere friend,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXXIII.

To L―― M――, an Orphan.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 27, 1741.

Dear L―― M――,

AND are little boys and girls, at this and that corner of the wood, crying unto the Lord? I hope you, dear L――, are always among them; and may the Lord hear your prayers, when you cry unto him! Surely he will, if you feel yourselves poor sinners. Never did Jesus reject an humble suppliant. “Suffer (says he) little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Dear L――, take all possible care to cherish your convictions. God has spoken once, yea twice to you, in an extraordinary manner. You are one of the oldest; you ought to go before the rest, and to encourage them to follow the ever-blessed Jesus. Satan will, no doubt, be very busy; and therefore you ought to be busy also. You fight under a good captain, even Jesus Christ, who will tread all enemies under your feet. My dear child, redeem your precious time. Fight the good fight of faith; and when you are wrestling with God, fail not to pray for

Your sincere friend,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXXIV.

To Mr. Thomas J――, at Savannah.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 29, 1741.

Dear Sir,

I Thank you for your continued kindness to my dear family. The God whom I serve, will richly reward you. I am more and more convinced, that the Orphan-house is of God. He will uphold it with his mighty arm. Dear Sir, there is nothing like a life of faith. It is more and more pleasant to me every day. I pray God, you may experience it every moment, and be enabled entirely to overcome the world. My letters, to my dear family, will inform you, how the Lord hath been pleased to deal with me. Blessed be his name, he hath delivered, he does, he will yet deliver. My soul has been among lions. Jesus hath been my helper. I am very comfortable within, and experience more of the divine presence in preaching, I think, than ever I did before in England. I suppose I shall not embark for America till Spring. Whatever good offices you are pleased to do for my family, shall be then fully acknowledged by, dear Sir,

Your obliged friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXXV.

To Mr. L――, at Bristol.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 29, 1741.

Dear Mr. L――,

WE are now within thirty miles of our desired haven. We have had a pleasant passage. Before I go ashore, I would fain answer your kind letter. Fear not for Bristol. No weapon formed against Zion shall prosper. Let us wait patiently, and we shall certainly see the salvation of God. The Lord is beginning his work afresh. I suppose brother C―― has told you something of it. I never felt greater power in England. I have had God’s continued presence during the passage. God has given me sweet sleep at night, and a good appetite to my food by day. Faithful is he who hath promised, that those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. I speak thus freely to you, because I know you will be thankful on my behalf. I hope both you and your dear wife, are making daily advances in the divine life. Whilst others are disputing, let us be growing. This will be the best way to convince those, who you find will not be convinced any other way. Adieu! The Lord be with you. May your soul breathe nothing but gentleness and love!

I am, dear Sir, Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXXVI.

To Mr. H――, at the Orphan-house.

On board the Mary and Ann, July 30, 1741.

My very dear Friend and Brother,

I Have been five days on board, and am now just at our desired haven. God’s presence has sweetened the passage, and I have had freedom to write many letters besides those sent to Bethesda. If you, and dear brother B――, think proper, the little ones may be called, and the letters read before you. A word of exhortation, and a short prayer, may not be unseasonable. I thank you all for the tender care you take of the dear lambs. You serve a master, who will richly reward all your pains. I hope there will come a time, when I shall embrace and weep over you all with tears of love! At present, I feel myself a poor sinner, and stand amazed at God’s goodness and patience extended towards me. I am less than the least of his mercies. You may expect to hear from me again shortly. O do not forget to pray for me. My dear friends, for the present, adieu! The Lord be with your spirit.

Ever, ever yours,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXXVII.

To Mr. J―― C――.

Edinburgh, Aug. 1, 1741.

My very dear Brother,

THE Lord was very gracious to me on board. He gave us a pleasant passage. As you know that the Messrs. Erskines gave me the first invitation to Scotland, and hath been praying for me in the most public, explicit, I could almost say extravagant manner, for near two years last past, I was determined to give them the first offer of my poor ministrations. Accordingly, I went yesterday to Dumfermling, where dear Mr. R―― E―― hath got a large and separate, or, as it is commonly termed, seceding meeting-house. He received me very lovingly. I preached to his and the town’s people.—A very thronged assembly—After I had done prayer, and named my text, the rustling made by opening the bibles all at once, quite surprized me: a scene, I never was witness to before. Our conversation after sermon, in the house, was such as became the gospel of Christ. They entertained me with various accounts of the success of the Seceders labours; and, as a proof of God’s being with them, Mr. R――’s son-in-law told me, that, at one of their late occasions, a woman was so deeply affected, that she was obliged to stop her mouth with an handkerchief to keep herself from crying out. They urged a longer stay, in order to converse more closely, and to set me right about church government, and the solemn league and covenant. I informed them, that I had given notice of preaching at Edinburgh this evening; but, as they desired it, I would in a few days return, and meet the associate presbytery in Mr. R――’s house. This was agreed on. Dear Mr. E―― accompanied me, and this evening I preached to many thousands, in a place called The Orphan-house Park. The Lord was there. Immediately after sermon, a large company, among whom were some of the nobility, came to salute me. Amidst our conversation, came in a portly, well-looking Quaker, nephew to Messrs. E――, formerly a Baptist minister in the north of England, who, taking me by the hand, said, “Friend George, I am as thou art; I am for bringing all to the life and power of the everliving God: and, therefore, if thou wilt not quarrel with me about my hat, I will not quarrel with thee about thy gown.” In this respect, I wish all, of every denomination, were thus minded. I find God has blessed my works in these parts. I am most cordially received by many that love the Lord Jesus. I have just been in company with a nobleman, who, I believe, truly fears God; and also with a lady of fashion, that discovers a christian spirit indeed. I already hear of great divisions. But Jesus knows how to bring order out of confusion. I hope the Lord is much with you, my dear brother. O may you be anointed more and more, till you are filled with all the fulness of God. Be pleased to read this to all in Wine-street; and remember me kindly to all that love the glorious Redeemer. He is a dear, dear Jesus. Tho’ we die for, yet let us not deny him in any wise. Pray that such a mind may be always given to

Your weak and unworthy brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXXVIII.

To the Rev. Mr. G. W――, at Maxton.

Edinburgh, Aug. 1, 1741.

Dear Sir,

YOUR kind letter, like all other tokens of my precious Master’s love, quite amazes me. I hear you are a good old soldier of Jesus Christ. O that you had wrote to me sooner! I want the advice and exhortation of those who have been in Christ before me. The Lord is pleased greatly to bless me. His work seems to be beginning afresh in England. How it goes on abroad, the papers sent with this will inform you. Help me, dear Sir, help me with your prayers, that the Lord may bless my coming here. I hope some have felt the divine presence in this evening’s exercise. Thro’ grace I can say, I did, and do now. O that I could be humble and thankful! O that my heart glowed with the love of God and men! I would breathe nothing but love. I would love all that love the Lord Jesus, of whatsoever denomination. May the Lord heal our divisions, and grant that we may not thereby provoke him to send us a common persecution to drive us together! O that we may stand in a trying hour. Dear Sir, I shall be glad to see you at Edinburgh any day after Wednesday next, and then we can settle when to come into your parts. I am willing to preach the gospel to all. It is now late, but I was willing to write, lest something should hinder me on Monday. Dear Sir, good night. I commend you to God, thank you for your prayers, and desire a continuance of them in behalf of

Your affectionate younger brother, and fellow-labourer in the Redeemer’s vineyard,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXXXIX.

To Mr. Thomas N――, at New-York.

Edinburgh, Aug. 8, 1741.

My dear Brother,

I Have written you several letters; and I rejoice to hear that the work of the Lord prospers in the hands of Messrs. T――s, &c. am glad they intend to meet in a synod by themselves. Their catholic spirit will do good. The associate presbytery here, are so confined, that they will not so much as hear me preach, unless I only will join with them. Mr. Ralph E――, indeed, did hear me, and went up with me into the pulpit of the Cannon-gate church.—The people were ready to shout for joy; but, I believe, it gave offence to his associates. I met most of them, according to appointment, on Wednesday last.—A set of grave venerable men! They soon proposed to form themselves into a presbytery, and were proceeding to chuse a moderator—I asked them for what purpose? They answered, to discourse, and set me right, about the matter of church-government, and the solemn league and covenant. I replied, they might save themselves that trouble, for I had no scruples about it; and that settling church-government, and preaching about the solemn league and covenant, was not my plan; I then told them something of my experience, and how I was led out into my present way of acting. One in particular said, he was deeply affected; and the dear Mr. E―― desired they would have patience with me, for that having been born and bred in England, and never studied the point, I could not be supposed to be so perfectly acquainted with the nature of their covenants. One, much warmer than the rest, immediately replied, “that no indulgence was to be shown me; that England had revolted most with respect to church government; and that I, born and educated there, could not but be acquainted with the matter now in debate.” I told him, I had never yet made the solemn league and covenant the object of my study, being too busy about matters, as I judged, of greater importance. Several replied, that every pin of the tabernacle was precious.—I said, that in every building there were outside and inside workmen; that the latter, at present, was my province; that if they thought themselves called to the former, they might proceed in their own way, and I should proceed in mine. I then asked them seriously, what they would have me to do; the answer was that I was not desired to subscribe immediately to the solemn league and covenant; but to preach only for them till I had further light. I asked, why only for them? Mr. Ralph E―― said, “they were the Lord’s people.” I then asked, whether there were no other Lord’s people but themselves; and supposing all others were the devil’s people, they certainly had more need to be preached to, and therefore I was more and more determined to go out into the highways and hedges; and that if the Pope himself would lend me his pulpit, I would gladly proclaim the righteousness of Jesus Christ therein. Soon after this, the company broke up; and one of these, otherwise venerable men, immediately went into the meeting-house, and preached upon these words, “Watchman, what of the night? Watchman, what of the night? The watchman said, The morning cometh, and also the night, if ye will enquire, enquire ye; return, come.” I attended; but the good man so spent himself in the former part of his sermon, in talking against prelacy, the common-prayer book, the surplice, the rose in the hat, and such like externals, that when he came to the latter part of his text, to invite poor sinners to Jesus Christ, his breath was so gone, that he could scarce be heard. What a pity that the last was not first, and the first last! The consequence of all this was, an open breach. I retired, I wept, I prayed, and after preaching in the fields, sat down and dined with them, and then took a final leave. At table a gentlewoman said, she had heard that I had told some people, that the associate presbytery were building a Babel. I said, “Madam, it is quite true; and I believe the Babel will soon fall down about their ears:” but enough of this. Lord, what is man, what the best of men? but men at the best! I think I have now seen an end of all perfection. Our brethren in America, blessed be God, have not so learned Christ. Be pleased to inform them of this letter. I have not time to write now. The Lord blesses my preaching here, and the work, I think, is begun afresh in London. I preach to many thousands daily, and several have applied to me already under convictions. I have been here about eight days. You may expect to hear from me shortly again. The Lord be with you. I love you in the bowels of Jesus Christ: He will bless you for what you have done for the poor orphans. He comforts me on every side. O free grace! Dear brother S―― salutes you all.

Ever yours in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXL.

To Mr. T―― G――, at London.

Edinburgh, Aug. 8, 1741.

YOU will see, my dear brother, by the following, what God is still doing for me. On Sunday evening, I preached in a field near the Orphan-house, to upwards of fifteen thousand people; and on Monday, Friday, and Saturday evening, to near as many. On Tuesday I preached in the Cannongate church; on Wednesday and Thursday at Dumfermling; and at my return on Friday morning, at about eight o’clock, I preached at a town called Queens-Ferry, seven miles from Edinburgh. Every where the auditories were large, and very attentive. Great power accompanied the word. Many have been brought under convictions; and I have already received several invitations to different places, which, God willing, I intend to comply with. At present I can say no more, but desire you to pray for, and expect soon to hear further from,