LETTERS. (continued 8)

Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXLI.

To the Rev. Mr. W――, at Dundee.

Edinburgh, Aug. 10, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Just now had the pleasure of your letter; for which be pleased to accept my hearty thanks. I trust your prayers will be heard in my behalf. Glory be to free grace! many are here brought under convictions. Unworthy as I am, the glorious Emmanuel is pleased to clothe his word with power. I am amazed at his loving-kindness, and want heaven and earth to join with me in praising his holy Name. By your son I have sent some papers, and shall gladly receive any from you. I wish you would not trouble yourself or me in writing about the corruptions of the Church of England. I believe there is no church perfect under heaven; but, as God, by his providence, is pleased to send me forth simply to preach the gospel to all, I think there is no need of casting myself out. The divisions in Scotland are affecting, and undoubtedly they will occasion great searchings of heart. I pray God to support us in a trying hour. I am not yet determined, when I shall come your way. I can only promise, it shall be the first opportunity, and that you shall be apprized of it some time before. In the mean time, be pleased to bear me upon your heart. I am a weak helpless worm. Your correspondence will always be agreeable to me. That you may daily receive fresh anointings from above, is the hearty prayer of, reverend and dear Sir,

Your affectionate, tho’ younger brother and servant in the Gospel,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXLII.

To the Rev. Mr. O――.

Edinburgh, Aug. 10, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Thank you for your kind and obliging letter.—I had not time to answer it before. God willing, I hope to come into the northern parts. The precise time I cannot yet tell. For ever adored be the Lord for his free grace! the word is accompanied with great power. Several apply to me daily under convictions. I find it best simply to preach the pure gospel, and not to meddle at all with controversy. The present divisions are a sore judgment to Scotland. This is my comfort, Jesus is king. He will either heal, or bring good out of them. I have been with several of the associate presbytery; but I see no hopes of accommodation. O that the power of religion may revive! Nothing but that can break down the partition wall of bigotry. Dear Sir, forget not to pray for me. I see more and more that I am nothing, and that Jesus is all in all. Did I know how, I would send you some papers; but I hope ere long to have a personal interview; and in the mean while, I beg leave to subscribe myself, reverend and dear Sir,

Your affectionate brother and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXLIII.

To the Right Honourable the Lord R――.

Edinburgh, Aug. 11, 1741.

My Lord,

THOUGH I am just going out, yet I cannot satisfy myself without snatching a few moments to write to you. I hope this will find your Lordship safe at your journey’s end, rejoicing in God for giving his angels charge concerning you in the way. It will please your Lordship, to inform you that the Lord of all Lords hath dealt most lovingly with me, since your departure hence. His power hath been frequently made known in the great congregation, and many come to me daily, crying out, “What shall I do to be saved?” The work of the Lord also goes on in America, and in England, so that I hope we shall see the kingdom of God come with power. This is the full desire of my soul. I am determined to seek after and know nothing else. For besides this, all other things are but dung and dross. O my Lord, why should we that are pilgrims, mind earthly things? Why should we that are soldiers, entangle ourselves with the things of this life? Heavenly-mindedness is the very life of a christian. It is all in all.—I pray the Lord that your heart may be drawn more and more towards him, and be fill’d with all his fulness. I could say more, but Mr. G―― W―― waits for me. I am, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXLIV.

To Mr. H―― H――, in London.

Edinburgh, Aug. 11, 1741.

My very dear Brother H――,

THOUGH my eyes are dim, and my body calls for rest, yet I would fain send you a line before I go. The Lord Jesus is getting himself into many hearts. I scarce feel any restraint in preaching. Both in public and private, the Lord clothes his word with power. Poor souls come to me under deep convictions. Sweet letters are sent to me of the success of my writings and sermons; and several pressing invitations to many places. I hope God is beginning such a work here, as he begun, and is now carrying on in New-England. Night and day Jesus fills me with his love. My bodily strength is daily renewed. The Lord is pleased to open my mouth wide; praise him for it. I have preached twice, and talked, and walked much to day. My dear man, good-night. The Lord be with you!

Ever, ever yours, in the most adorable Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXLV.

To the Most Honourable the M――ss of L――n.

Edinburgh, Aug. 12, 1741.

My Lord,

I Am surprized to find your Lordship so condescending as to write to me. How bright does humility shine in great personages? It is this renders God so amiable to his creatures. He is infinitely good, and withal infinitely condescending. What an unparalleled instance was that of his loving kindness, his giving his only begotten Son to die for sinful man. How low did Jesus stoop when he lay in a manger, much more when he hung upon the accursed tree. When I think of this mystery of godliness, I am lost in thought. This makes me to despise all human happiness, and sets my soul a longing for a full fruition of my Jesus. I pray God to give your Lordship grace to determine to know nothing but Jesus Christ, and him crucified. He is the only center of true happiness. In him alone, solid, lasting joys are to be found. Having Jesus, I find in him I possess all things. But whither am I going? Your Lordship will excuse me. My heart at present is enlarged. I pray God to visit your Lordship with his great salvation. I thank your Lordship for your intended benefaction to the poor Georgia orphans. I hope the glorious Emmanuel will accept it at your hands. I have sent your Lordship another parcel, seeing the first hath miscarried. I shall follow it with my poor prayers, being, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXLVI.

To Mr. H―― H――.

Edinburgh, Aug. 13, 1741.

My very dear Brother,

I Longed to receive a letter from you. Blessed be God, my longing was satisfied this day. My heart is much united to you, and carried out for you. I utterly disapprove of some persons separating principles. I find, Satan now turns himself into an angel of light, and stirs up God’s children to tempt me to come over to some particular party. The associate Presbytery have been hard upon me; but I find no freedom, any longer than I continue just as I am, and evangelize to all. I know not that I differ from you in one thing. Glory be to God for what he has done at London! He is doing great things here. I walk in the continual sunshine of his countenance. Every day, fresh seals are given of my ministry. This morning God opened my voice to speak to preachers of the gospel. Be pleased to accept of this summary account of my proceedings. On Sunday morning, I visited and preached to the orphans here, and in the evening to as many people as the Sunday before. Every day since, excepting Monday, I have preached either in the churches or field twice a day, and yesterday I collected upwards of ninety-three pounds for the Georgia orphans. People are daily coming under deep convictions, and fresh invitations are sent me to preach at divers places round about. On Sunday, I purpose to preach in the country, and also the greatest part of the following week, and shall return again, God willing, about Friday to this city. O my brother, exhort all to praise the Lord. I have most sweet letters from many awakened ones. God, I believe, will work in the ministers and young students hearts. Even so Lord Jesus. Amen. Pray fail not writing to

Ever yours,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXLVII.

To Mr. D―― E――, at Sterling.

Edinburgh, Aug. 13, 1741.

My dear Brother,

I Received your kind letter, and heartily bless God, if any thing dropping from my unworthy lips was made of service to your soul. I believe, God inclined me to speak to you. The sons of the prophets are much upon my heart. I pray God that you may be polished shafts, and noble instruments in his hands, of building up living temples for the Holy Ghost. The treatment I met with from the associate presbytery, was not altogether such as I expected. It grieved me, as much as it did you. I could scarce refrain from bursting into a flood of tears. I wish all were like-minded with your honoured father and uncle: matters then would not be carried on with so high an hand. I fear they are led too much. Such violent methods, such a narrow way of acting, can never be the way to promote and enlarge the kingdom of the blessed Jesus. It surely must be wrong to fix such bounds to ourselves, as forbid even our hearing those who love the Lord Jesus in sincerity, and have also been owned of him. Christ would not have done so.—Supposing the scheme of government which the associate presbytery contend for to be scriptural, yet forbearance and long-suffering is to be exercised towards such as may differ from them; and I am verily persuaded, there is no such form of government prescribed in the book of God, as excludes a toleration of all other forms whatsoever. Was the New Testament outward tabernacle to be built as punctual as the old, as punctual directions would have been given about the building it; whereas, it is only deduced by inference, and thus we see Independents, Presbyterians, and Episcopalians bring the same text to support their particular scheme, and I believe Jesus Christ thereby would teach us to exercise forbearance and long-suffering to each other. Was the associate presbytery scheme to take effect, out of conscience, if they acted consistently, they must restrain, and grieve, if not persecute many of God’s children who could not possibly come into their measures; and I doubt not but their present violent methods, together with the corruptions of that assembly, will cause many to turn Independents, and set up particular churches of their own. This was the effect of archbishop Laud’s acting with so high an hand; and whether it be presbytery or episcopacy, if managed in the same manner, it will be productive of the same effects. Blessed be God, I have not so learned Christ. I preach the simple gospel, and our glorious Jesus is pleased to attend it with his power. Every day I feel more and more of the divine presence, and people are coming to me crying, “What shall we do to be saved.” The love of Jesus fills my soul, and constrains me to write thus freely to you. O dear Sir, I love and honour your pious father. Remember me in the kindest manner to the good old man. I pray God, his last days may not be employed too much in the non-essentials of religion. My heart is knit to the family. God forbid, that any thing should hinder us from taking sweet counsel together. God willing, I am to preach at Falkirk on Tuesday evening, and purpose to be at Sterling that night, and to preach twice there the next day. If it was thought advisable, I would collect for the Orphan-house at Georgia in the afternoon. The Lord be with you, and all the family. Forget me not in your prayers.—I am a poor unworthy wretch. As such, pray for

Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXLVIII.

To Mr. H―― H――.

Edinburgh, Aug. 15, 1741.

My very dear Brother,

IT would make your heart leap for joy, to be now in Edinburgh. I question if there be not upwards of 300 in this city seeking after Jesus. Every morning, I have a constant levee of wounded souls, many of whom are quite slain by the law. God’s power attends the word continually, just as when I left London. At seven in the morning, we have a lecture in the fields, attended not only by the common people, but persons of great rank. I have reason to think several of the latter sort are coming to Jesus. Little children also are much wrought upon. God much blesses my letters from the little orphans. He loves to work by the most contemptible means. O my dear brother, I am quite amazed, when I think what God hath done here in a fortnight. My printed journals and sermons have been blessed in an uncommon manner. I am only afraid lest people should idolize the instrument, and not look enough to the glorious Jesus, in whom alone I desire to glory. Congregations consist of many thousands. Never did I see so many bibles, nor people look into them, when I am expounding, with such attention. Plenty of tears flow from the hearers eyes. Their concern appears various ways. I preach twice daily, and expound at private houses at night, and am employed in speaking to souls under distress great part of the day. I have just snatched a few moments to write to my dear brother. O that God may enlarge your heart to pray for me. This afternoon I shall preach out of town, and also to-morrow. Next post, God willing, you shall have another letter. I walk continually in the comforts of the Holy Ghost. The love of Christ quite strikes me dumb. O grace! grace! Let that be my song. Adieu. My dear fellow-traveller joins with me in hearty love to you all. I must away.

Ever yours in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCXLIX.

To Mr. J―― H――, at Georgia.

Edinburgh, Aug. 24, 1741.

My very dear Friend and Brother,

WITH very great difficulty I get time to write this. The Lord is doing great things in Scotland. I preach twice daily to many thousands with great power. I have collected here very near two-hundred pounds, and have a prospect of collecting much more. Mr. N―― has drawn upon me for three hundred pounds sterling. I have paid two of it. Some hundreds remain yet unpaid. God gives me to put my trust in him. I have bought five hundred yards of cloth for the dear orphans winter’s wear, and shall send you the other things you mentioned. I rejoice to hear that the Lord is with you. I do not wonder at the contempt you meet with, or the calumnies which are spread abroad. Remember the burning bush. O my friend, my dear friend, how shall I thank you for your prayers, care, and love? I am willing to wash all your feet. Perhaps in the Spring, I may embark; but cannot yet determine. I have written to you many letters, and I always remember you in my prayers. I am glad to hear that you can go to market without money. The Lord increase your faith. My dear brother, I love you in the bowels of Jesus Christ. I will do what I can for Mr. B――. I thank dear Mr. J――, from my heart, for his great kindness. I wrote to him and to Mr. B――, and near thirty more, a month ago. Expect also some money shortly. I had rather bear any burden, than have my dear family burdened. I thank Mr. W―― for his care. His brethren here are well. I have not time to tell you, how I love and esteem you for the care you take of the dear lambs. I long to weep over you all. Excuse me for not writing particularly. The Lord be with you all. As soon as I can possibly redeem time, you shall hear again, my dear Mr. H――, from

Ever yours in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCL.

To the Rev. Mr. R―― E――.

Edinburgh, Aug. 24, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Thank you for your kind letter. I believe it proceeded from love; but, as yet, I cannot think the solemn league and covenant is any way obligatory upon me. Indeed, dear Sir, you mistake if you think I temporize on account of the orphans. Be it far from me. I abhor the very thought of it. I proceed now, just as I have done ever since I came out in the ministry; and so far from not setting a hedge about our Lord’s garden, that was I called to it, I should set a much closer hedge than that which the associate presbytery are planting. I should enquire into people’s experiences, before I admitted them to the Lord’s table. I would have church members meet in church fellowship, and tell one another what God has done for their souls. You seem to think I am not open to light. That I may give you satisfaction, I am willing to confer with Mr. W―― at Perth, where I am to be by divine permission on Thursday, September 3. On Tuesday next, about four in the afternoon, I purpose preaching at Dumfermling.—I am engaged to sup at your collegue’s house, but intend to lie at yours. In the mean time be pleased to pray for me, and to remember my love to all your family; and believe me, reverend Sir, to be

Your most affectionate, though unworthy brother and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLI.

To the Reverend Mr. O――, at Aberdeen.

Perth, Sept. 3, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Have received two letters from you, which much affect me, knowing how unworthy I am of such endearing expressions, or indeed of any notice at all. But what shall I say? Grace! grace! Jesus loves me, and so does his servant for Jesu’s sake. O free grace! I am sorry to find that any should insinuate, my not coming to Aberdeen is owing to your cold invitation. Such a thought never entered my heart, but quite the contrary. The distance of the way, and my pressing call to England, will keep me from you, and nothing else. I love and honour you for my master’s sake. I should be glad to wash your feet, and if possible I will yet see you. But if God should not permit me, dear Sir, be not offended. The Lord is pleased to give me much freedom and power in preaching. Congregations are every where large, and they have been very liberal to my poor orphans. O that I was humble, and thankful! I am the chief of sinners: I feel myself such. O the efficacy of Christ’s blood! It is omnipotent; it hath saved me. Dear Sir, my heart is melted down with the love of Jesus. He is a dear master. He hath suffered no evil to befal me, as you have already heard. I have not so much as hurt my foot against a stone. Help me to praise him. Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, to receive all honour and glory and riches and power and blessing! With much difficulty, I get time to send you these few lines.—Reverend and dear Sir,

Your very affectionate, obedient friend, younger brother, and servant in the gospel,

G. W.

P. S. For nine days past, I have continued preaching with great power twice every day, to very large and affected auditories in many towns and villages.

LETTER CCCLII.

To the Rev. Mr. W――.

Edinburgh, Sept. 19, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

THOUGH nature calls for rest, and I am to preach four times to-morrow, yet I cannot go to bed without answering your kind letter. Blessed be God for any good done at Dundee! Not unto me, not unto me, but unto Jesus Christ be all the glory. Thanks be to God, I can yet send you more glad tidings. At Creif we had a most precious meeting. At Glasgow I preached ten times. The Lord was with me of a truth. The congregations were very large, as were the contributions, and many were brought under the deepest convictions. With great regret we parted, and with great joy was received at Edinburgh. I had some thoughts of abiding in Scotland longer, but last night I received a letter, which almost determined my return to England. Next Saturday, God willing, I purpose to leave this place, and shall return into these parts, if providence points a way, in the Spring. I do not despair of seeing Scotland like New-England. Reverend Sir, for the present adieu. My poor body bids me to stop. O when shall I sleep no more! I am exceedingly weary, but am affectionately, Reverend and dear Sir,

Your most unworthy and obedient brother, and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLIII.

To Mr. T―― G――, in London.

Edinburgh, Sep. 24, 1741.

My very dear Brother,

THIS serves to inform you, that on Sunday last I preached here four times, twice in a church, and twice in the fields; in the evening I collected twenty pounds for the royal infirmary. On Monday morning, I visited the children in three hospitals, and preached in the evening in the park; also at Kinglassy, Aberdour, and Innerkeithing, on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Thursday I visited the prison, and in the evening preached to the children of the city, with a congregation consisting of near twenty thousand in the park. It is remarkable that many children are under convictions, and every where great power and apparent success attend the word preached. Calls to divers places, are so numerous and importunate, that I think it my duty to stay in Scotland some time longer: being in haste, can say not more at present. My love to all that love the Lord Jesus.

Your most affectionate friend, brother, and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLIV.

To the Right Honourable Lord L――.

Edinburgh, Sept. 25, 1741.

My Lord,

THOUGH nature calls for rest, yet love and gratitude oblige me to sit up to answer your Lordship’s letter, lest I should not have time in the morning. Blessed be the glorious Redeemer! who seems in some degree to be working upon your heart. My prayer to God is, that these convictions may continue, ’till they end in a sound conversion. You do well, my Lord, to fear, lest they should wear off. I have not had so much acquaintance with the world as your Lordship; but I know it is a deceitful thing, and without the utmost care and watchfulness, will insensibly divert the soul from God. Your Lordship is in a dangerous situation. A fear of contempt, and a love for honour, falsely so called, render religion unfashionable amongst the rich and polite part of mankind. But the blood of Jesus is almighty, and makes the soul more than conqueror. Here is the fountain to which you and I must apply, to wash away all our sins. And is it yet open for all poor sinners? Come then, my Lord, and lay yourself at the feet of the blessed Jesus. He can, he will, if you believe on him, abundantly pardon you. But faith is the gift of God. I pray God to give you no rest, ’till you have received the full assurance of faith. Then will you recover your primitive dignity, trample earth under your feet, and with your soul be panting after God. O my Lord, it is a blessed thing to have fellowship with the Father, and with the Son. I am a poor despised minister of Jesus Christ; but I would not change my Master for ten thousand worlds. I have food to eat, that the world knows nothing of. I long to have your Lordship taste of it too, and shall as it were travail in birth ’till Jesus Christ is formed in you. Your Lordship need not remind me to pray for you. Your eternal welfare is much upon my heart. My Lord, now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation. The blessed spirit is now striving with you, and saying, “My son, give me thy heart; what hast thou to do any more with idols?” I hope your reply will be, “Lord, I give thee my heart, my whole heart, and will no longer keep back from thee the least part.” Then will your Lordship be truly happy; for so far as we are void of God, so far we are miserable. But whither am I running? It is late; but your Lordship desired a long letter, and therefore I have taken the liberty to write freely. I am sensible of the honour put upon me by your Lordship, and hope I shall never betray any trust reposed in me. I pray God to sanctify this, and bless our fellowship when we meet together. I thank your Lordship for your concern about the orphans. I am persuaded you will in no wise lose your reward. I hope your Lordship received my last letter, which gave an account of my intended preaching at Kinglassie and Coupar. May the glorious Jesus sanctify my continuance in these parts, to the promoting his own glory and the good of souls! I think I can say, “to me to live is Christ.” It revives me to see so many seeking after Jesus. At Kinglassie the power was extraordinary. O free grace! that God should make use of such a wretch as I am. I desire to lie humbly in the dust, and say, “Why me, Lord, why me?” Fear not, my Lord, I have received remission of sins by the blood of Jesus. Into his arms, I am just about to commend your Lordship. I pray God to visit your soul with his salvation; and hoping my humble respects will find acceptance with your Lordship, your lady, and lady Ann, I beg leave to subscribe myself,

Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLV.

To the Right Honourable Lord R――.

Gallashiels, Sept. 28, 1741.

My Lord,

YOUR letter I fear has been too long unanswered, but gratitude will not permit me to defer answering it any longer. I have also received your Lordship’s liberal benefaction for the orphans, for which and all other favours, your Lordship hath my hearty thanks.—The innumerable instances of God’s goodness quite melt me down. The word of God prevails more and more. Every where Jesus Christ is getting himself the victory in poor sinners hearts. Young and old from many quarters fly to the gospel, as doves to the windows. I trust, your Lordship’s daughters will feel the power of Christ’s blood. Happy they, who do feel it. They rest in God. They are sons and daughters of the Lord Almighty. What a rich person is the poorest christian? He is joint heir with Jesus Christ. Supported with this thought, and feeling the power of it in my soul, I can despise all sublunary enjoyments, and long to be wholly swallowed up in God. Happy day, when we shall converse with the world no more! I pray God to give me patience to wait ’till Jesus comes. I would leap my seventy years, and fly upon the wings of faith and love, into the blessed Redeemer’s presence. I hope your Lordship is thus minded. May the glorious Emmanuel keep you so, ’till your soul is carried into Abraham’s bosom. This is the hearty prayer of, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s most obedient and obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLVI.

To the Right Honourable lord L――

Edinburgh, Oct. 2, 1741.

My Lord,

LAST night I returned from the south country, and receiv’d your Lordship’s kind letter. My invitation to Coupar was in the name of many: who the persons were that signed the letter I cannot tell. I have sent it inclosed in this. Had I known it to have been more agreeable to your Lordship, I would have appointed the meeting at Melvill; but I fear, as such public notice has been given, it will be now impracticable. I cannot possibly stay with your Lordship all Tuesday, being to preach at Dundee. But in my return from Aberdeen, I hope to be at your Lordship’s house. I am glad your Lordship intends to be at Kinglassie. I shall have both sermons very early, and hope the glorious Jesus will be with us in our going to Melvill. O my Lord, I want a thousand tongues to set off the Redeemer’s praise. Having him, tho’ I have nothing else, I find I possess all things. I have not forgotten your Lordship since I wrote last. You are, and will be much upon my heart. I have heard of the piety of your Lordship’s ancestors, and hope many prayers are yet in store for you. Above all, I trust, Jesus prays for you, and then you cannot but be a conqueror; nay, more than conqueror over the world, the flesh and the devil. Take courage then, my Lord, and fear not to follow a crucified Jesus without the camp, bearing his sacred reproach. Beware of honour, falsely so called: dare to be singularly good, and be not ashamed of Jesus or his gospel. O that you may find it to be the power of God to your salvation! Look but to Christ by faith, and your Lordship’s great possessions will not retard, but further and promote your progress in the divine life. What sweet communion will your Lordship then enjoy with God, in your walks and gardens? It will then be a little paradise to your soul, and every thing you meet with, will only draw you so much nearer to Jehovah, in whom all fulness dwells. This I find by daily experience; and that your Lordship may daily experience the same, is the earnest prayer, my Lord, of

Your Lordship’s most obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLVII.

To Mr. H――.

Melvill, October 5, 1741.

My very dear Friend and Brother,

I Have, by the ship that brings you this, sent you 70l. worth of different sorts of goods to be disposed of, and the money to be applied for the use of the Orphan-house. You are to let Mr. B―― have 20l. I have also sent 600 yards of cloth, a present of my own, to make the boys and girls gowns and coats, some whereof I have had made up here. The other things were given by various persons. Amongst these, you will find some damask table-cloths, which I desire you will sell, they being too good, in my opinion, for our use. O my dear friend, how faithful is the Lord Jesus! He has now enabled me to pay my brother, and Mr. N――’s bill of three hundred pounds sterling. There is yet 200l. to be paid, which I borrowed since my arrival in England; but very shortly I hope to discharge that also. I have been in Scotland about two months, and think to be here about a fortnight longer. God is pleased to give me health, and to bless my ministrations in an abundant manner. The little children in the hospitals, are much wrought upon. Saints have been stirred up and edified, and many others, I believe, are translated from darkness to light, and from the kingdom of satan to the kingdom of God’s dear Son. The good that has been done, is inexpressible. I am intimate with three noblemen, and several ladies of quality, who have a great liking for the things of God. I am now writing in an earl’s house, surrounded with fine furniture; but glory be to free grace! my soul is in love only with Jesus: he helps me more and more. I feel but little straitness in preaching, and we have often sweet appearances of the divine presence in our large assemblies. As to my own soul, it is very comfortable and composed; I feel the power of Jesus more, and the power of indwelling sin less. I am daily waiting for the coming of the Son of God. I fear I am too impatient to be gone; but what can the soul do, when sick of love? I have some thoughts of visiting Ireland. Whether I shall do that, or come to America in the Spring, God only knows. I pray for, and long to see you and the rest of my dear family. I trust, I then shall behold, what I long to behold, a houshold of faith, a company of poor sinners walking in the simplicity and love of the meek and lowly Jesus. O that you may so live, that whosoever comes amongst you may say, “Surely God is in this place.” Thousands of prayers are put up for us, and thousands of lies are spread abroad against us. But Jesus enables me to fight my way through all, and I am persuaded he will make me more than conqueror through his love. In England, the work goes on well. Brother C―― is much blessed in Wiltshire; and brother H―― wrote me word some time ago, that he had examined about three hundred souls of our society, most of which had been wrought upon since my return from Georgia. Help me to cry, Grace! grace! My dear friend and brother, for the present adieu! I love you in the bowels of a crucified Jesus. Brethren, pray for us.

I am ever, ever yours in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLVIII.

To Mr. H―― in Edinburgh.

Melvill, October 5, 1741.

Dear Mr. H――,

I Received your kind letter with the bill, and also that signed by you, and my other friends at Edinburgh. I take all they say in good part, but think some of their reasonings a little too worldly. The calumnies of evil men are not to be regarded. I value them not in the least. My largest donations have been from the rich and substantial. The mites which the lower sort of people have given, I am persuaded will not prevent their paying their debts, or impoverish their families. Mr. W――, in a letter to Mr. S――, wishes there may be a private contribution for myself; but I know nothing of, and will not admit of any such thing. I make no purse; what I have, I give away.—Freely I have received, freely I desire to give. “Poor, yet making many rich,” shall be my motto still. My great and professed design, is to bring poor sinners to Jesus Christ: but as my orphan family abroad is now large, and daily to be provided for, without the least visible fund, and I believe much glory will redound to God from that house; I think it my duty to speak to those, who I believe, for Christ’s sake, are willing to help them. I would have no one afraid of doing too much good, or think, that a little given in charity will impoverish the country.—May God reward you, and all others that have assisted me for his dear Son’s sake! My poor prayers will always attend my Scotch friends. When I shall go to England, I know not, but I hope God will direct me. I must have done. Dear Sir, may the Lord be with you, and be your ease in pain. My kindest respects attend your kind wife, and all my dear friends. I thank you and them for their advice, and desire to subscribe myself, with much affection, dear Sir,

Your obliged, and affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLIX.

To the Rev. Mr. M――, at Dornock.

Aberdeen, October 9, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

SOME time past, I received a letter from your Presbytery of Sutherland, and if I mistake not, with your name subscribed. However, as I this night have seen your son, I think it my duty in a letter to you, to thank the reverend presbytery for their kind invitation; but as my stay in Scotland is so short, and Sutherland so far Northward, I cannot think of going thither at this time. Notwithstanding, my prayer to God is, that the glorious gospel may flourish in your hands, and that you may bring many, very many souls to Jesus. This, reverend Sir, unless my heart deceives me, is my only aim.

For this let men revile my name,

I shun no Cross, I fear no shame;

All hail reproach, and welcome pain,

Only thy terrors, Lord, restrain!

O, dear Sir, my heart is warmed with the love of Jesus; whilst I am writing, the fire kindles. Amazing, that Jesus should suffer me to speak for him! But what shall we say? His grace is free. Dear Sir, help me to cry, Grace! grace! Surely I shall sing it in heaven. I long to be there, but am willing to tarry the Lord’s leisure. Dear Sir, excuse this freedom; I hope I am writing to one that loves Jesus. I would write more, but must away to give a word of exhortation. That the Lord Jesus may fill you with all joy and peace in believing, is the hearty prayer of, Reverend and dear Sir,

Your affectionate friend, brother, &c. in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLX.

To Major M――.

Aberdeen, October 9, 1741.

Dear Sir,

BEING come thus far Northward, and hearing that you are this way, I cannot forbear writing, though nature calls for sleep. I was concerned I could not see you at London; but hope this will find you retired from a noisy world, and walking with your dear spouse as becometh the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is what I have longed and prayed for many a time. I am of the same mind as formerly. Nothing but Jesus can satisfy the soul. Aided by his Almighty power, I still go on through good report and evil report, preaching the gospel. Blessed be God, I am not ashamed of it. For, I find it, as do many others, to be the power of God to our eternal salvation. O, dear Sir, I feel more and more of the love of Christ every day. It is past expression. I hope ere now you have had it shed abroad in your heart abundantly, by the Holy Ghost. A letter informing me of this, will rejoice my soul. Be pleased to direct to me at Mr. T――’s, Edinburgh. God willing, I purpose leaving Scotland in about a fortnight. Whether I shall see you in the flesh, I know not. However, since I know what God once did for you, be not offended, if I charge you, dear Sir, not to let me miss you at God’s right-hand in the great day. But God only can bring this to pass: That you and your dear wife may be kept by his mighty power unto salvation, prays, dear Sir,

Ever yours,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXI.

To Mrs. Ann D――, at great Gransden.

Aberdeen, October 9, 1741.

My dear Sister,

THIS evening your letter came to hand. Though it is past eleven at night, and I have rode many miles this day, yet I cannot go to-bed without sending you a line. I fear, by your manner of writing, you are offended with me for my last letter. I knew very well, it would be a trial to you; but I wrote out of pure love, and am glad it is now in your power to clear your husband, which I much desired to do. I have too many aspersions of the same nature cast upon me, not to sympathize with you both. But Jesus is our advocate, and ere long we shall see all the accusers of the brethren cast down. In spite of all, Jesus has been, and is getting himself the victory in many sinners hearts. I am yet carried on day by day, strengthened in body, and much refreshed and comforted in soul. Your letter gives me a little present pain, lest my last should have pained you. But God permits these things to happen among ourselves, to teach us to look off from all creatures, and to centre all our happiness in himself. Glory be to God for his almighty love! At my first coming here, things looked a little gloomy; for the magistrates had been so prejudiced by one Mr. B――, that when applied to, they refused me the use of the kirk-yard to preach in. This Mr. B―― is collegue with one Mr. O――, at whose repeated invitation I came hither. Though collegues of the same congregation, they are very different in their natural tempers. The one is what they call in Scotland, of a sweet blooded, the other, of a choleric disposition. Mr. B―― is neither a Seceder, nor quite a Kirk-man, having great fault to find with both. Soon after my arrival, dear Mr. O―― took me to pay my respects to him; he was prepared for it, and immediately pulled out a paper, containing a great number of insignificant queries, which I had neither time near inclination to answer. The next morning, it being Mr. O――’s turn, I lectured and preached; the magistrates were present. The congregation very large, and light and life fled all around. In the afternoon Mr. B―― officiated; I attended. He began his prayers as usual; but in the midst of them naming me by name, he intreated the Lord to forgive the dishonour that had been put upon him, by my being suffered to preach in that pulpit; and that all might know what reason he had to put up such a petition, about the middle of his sermon, he not only urged that “I was a curate of the church of England,” but also quoted a passage or two out of my first printed sermons, which he said were grossly Arminian. Most of the congregation seemed surprized and chagrined, especially his good-natured collegue Mr. O――, who immediately after sermon, without consulting me in the least, stood up and gave notice, that Mr. Whitefield would preach in about half an hour. The interval being so short, the magistrates returned into the session’s-house, and the congregation patiently waited, big with expectation of hearing my resentment. At the time appointed, I went up, and took no other notice of the good man’s ill-timed zeal, than to observe in some part of my discourse, that if the good old gentleman had seen some of my later writings, wherein I had corrected several of my former mistakes, he would not have expressed himself in such strong terms. The people being thus diverted from controversy with man, were deeply impressed with what they heard from the word of God. All was hushed! and more than solemn! and on the morrow the magistrates sent for me, expressed themselves quite concerned at the treatment I had met with, and begg’d I would accept of the freedom of the city. But of this enough. The Lord, my dear sister, my support; let us both continually fly to him, and then let men or devils do their worst. Christ will by and by take away our reproach. Into his hands I commend your spirit. Good night; the Lord be with you and yours! I hope to set out for England soon. Pray write when you hear of my arrival there, and so convince me, that you are not angry with

Your affectionate tho’ unworthy brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXII.

To Mr. W――, at Edinburgh.

Aberdeen, October 10, 1741.

Dear Sir,

I Just snatch a few moments to answer your letter. Want of leisure prevented my doing it before. I have not as yet seen your mother’s memoirs. Happy are you in having such a parent. No doubt many prayers are in store for you. As for your entering upon the ministry, I cannot advise you, ’till you have gotten full satisfaction that you are born again of God. I know more than one, who are ready to give up their ministry for want of this; and as for my own part, I could not feelingly press the love of God to others, unless I was sure of his love to myself. I know not what may have passed between God and your soul. You can tell, I suppose, whether or not God’s spirit witnesseth with your spirit, that you are a child of God? For he that believeth, hath the witness in himself. If you have got this with a moderate share of learning, a good elocution and a burning love for precious souls, then, I think you may do service in a public station. If godly, and real experienced friends are for your entering into the ministry, their advice is somewhat to be regarded. If their advice proceeds from worldly motives, do not mind them at all. The discouragements you meet with from some, are not worth your notice. If God loves you, he will try you every way. Prayer, meditation, and temptation, are three necessary qualifications for a gospel minister. I know not what to say about your going to Georgia. In Pensylvania, and other places, there are most noble opportunities of preaching the gospel of Jesus. But I hope to be in Edinburgh in about ten days, and then shall be glad to converse with you. In the mean time, dear Sir, I commend you to God, and desire you would not forget the unworthy creature, who now subscribes himself

Yours in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXIII.

To the Rev. Mr. J―― W――.

Aberdeen, October 10, 1741.

Reverend and dear Brother,

I Have for a long time expected that you would have sent me an answer to my last; but I suppose that you are afraid to correspond with me, because I revealed your secret about the lot. Though much may be said for my doing it, yet I am sorry now, that any such thing dropped from my pen, and I humbly ask pardon. I find I love you as much as ever, and pray God, if it be his blessed will, that we may be all united together. It hath been for some days upon my heart to write to you, and this morning I received a letter from brother H――, telling me how he had conversed with you and your dear brother. May God remove all obstacles that now prevent our union! Though I hold particular election, yet I offer Jesus freely to every individual soul. You may carry sanctification to what degrees you will, only I cannot agree that the in-being of sin is to be destroyed in this life. O, my dear brother, the Lord hath been much with me in Scotland. I every morning feel my fellowship with Christ, and he is pleased to give me all peace and joy in believing. In about three weeks I hope to be at Bristol. May all disputings cease, and each of us talk of nothing but Jesus, and him crucified! This is my resolution. The Lord be with your spirit. My love to brother C――, and all that love the glorious Emmanuel. I am, without dissimulation,

Ever yours,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXIV.

To Peter B――.

Aberdeen, October 10, 1741.

My dear Brother,

I Write this, to ask pardon for mentioning your name in my answer to brother W――’s sermon. I am very sorry for it. Methinks I hear you say, for Christ’s sake I forgive you. I thank you, and shall be glad of a conference with you when I come to London. There have been faults on both sides. I think, my dear brother, you have not acted simply in some things. Let us confess our faults to one another, and pray for one another, that we may be healed. I wish there may be no dissention between us for the time to come. May God preserve us from falling out in our way to heaven! The world and the devil are united against us; O that we could all unite against them! “God is love, and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God.” I long to have all narrow-spiritedness taken out of my heart. Jesus is able to deliver me. His blood is Almighty. I trust I shall not rest, ’till I have felt the full power of it in my soul. Blessed be God, I am still carried on from conquering to conquer. Jesus causes me to triumph in every place. I desire to lie as a poor sinner at his feet, and to cry, Grace! grace! I find I am shortly to be called before the higher powers. Help me, my dear brother, by your prayers. In about nine days I think to leave Scotland. I commend you to Jesus, and desire to subscribe myself, dear brother B――,

Yours affectionately in the bleeding Lamb,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXV.

To the Reverend Mr. C――.

Aberdeen, October 13, 1741.

My dear Brother,

I Received your letters, and am glad to hear that the glorious Emmanuel is pleased to countenance your ministry. May he smile on you more and more, and make you the spiritual father of many children! I have very great reason to be thankful to our common Saviour. He hath been with me greatly, both in England and Scotland. I generally preach twice every day, sometimes three, even four times, and generally expound in private every night. The Lord has fought many battles for me, and still continues to make me more than conqueror through his love. This morning I felt his power in the pulpit, and now feel it much in my soul. O what a blessed thing it is, to have God’s spirit witness with our spirit, that we are God’s children! This, glory be to free grace! I have continually; and let me be in what frame soever, my soul is waiting for the coming of the Son of Man. Blessed be God, it will not be long ere I shall see him as he is. The sight I have of him by faith, ravishes my soul: how shall I be ravished when I see him face to face! “Lord, purify me, even as thou art pure; for only the pure in heart see thee!” My dear brother, the love of God now fills my soul. May you feel it shed abroad abundantly in your heart! About Spring, perhaps, I may leave England. Forget not to pray for me.

I am, dear Mr. C――, Ever yours in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXVI.

To the Right Honourable the Earl of L――.

Brechen, October 17, 1741.

My Lord,

I Would have wrote to your Lordship from Aberdeen, but could not then determine when I should be at Melvill. This comes to acquaint your Lordship, that, God willing, I hope to be at your Lordship’s house on Wednesday night, and to preach at Coupar on Thursday. I should be glad if the magistrates were apprized of it, and the tent fixed in a more convenient place, and at a less distance from the ground. I cannot tell your Lordship, how good the glorious Emmanuel has been unto me. He has caused me to triumph in every place, and fills my soul with joy unspeakable, even with joy that is full of glory. I wish your Lordship was not almost, but altogether such as I am, excepting my indwelling corruptions. O my Lord, none but Christians know the pleasure of renouncing the world for God. I am persuaded you felt unspeakable pleasure at Coupar. I hope those days have continued with you. Happy are you in having a consort that will forward you in the spiritual life. That you may both live together as becomes heirs of the grace of God, and have all joy and peace in believing, is the earnest prayer of, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXVII.

To Mr. Thomas G――, at London.

Dundee, October 21, 1741.

Dear Brother G――,

YOU will see, by the following, what God is still doing for me. On Wednesday night last I left Aberdeen, after preaching there seven times, besides expounding in private. Before I came among them, numbers were much prejudiced against me; but God was pleased to attend my ministry with such power, that all opposition fell before me. Many were brought under great convictions. The magistrates made me free of the city; and the people much regretted my speedy departure from them. On Thursday last I preached at Stonhithe and Benham; on Friday, thrice at Montrose; on Saturday twice, and on Sunday thrice at Brechen, and lectured in the evening at a private house. On Monday I preached twice at Forfar; on Tuesday twice at Coupar, in Angus; and once at Dundee, five miles from Coupar, at four in the afternoon, and again at night; here I have also preached twice this day. The presence of God accompanies me more and more. Wherever I have preached, I hear of the good fruits of it, both in convicting sinners, and reviving saints. At Dundee, the concern among the hearers is very remarkable. People are still more desirous to hear the word. But, God willing, I purpose shortly to set out for England. My dear brother, pray for me, that I may be humble and thankful. I am glad to hear your wife is recovered. My love to her, and all friends. I am, with cordial affection, Dear brother G――,

Ever yours in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXVIII.

To the Right Honourable the Lord L――.

Edinburgh, October 26, 1741.

My Lord,

IT is now past eleven at night; all is wrapt in awful silence. My soul is in a quiet composed frame. I have been giving your Lordship’s letter a second reading, with aspirations to God whilst I perused it. Surely God has not let me wrestle with him in vain. The Holy Spirit seems to be moving upon the face of your soul. I trust God hath said, “Let there be light,” and therefore there is light. O that the work may be carried on, till you enter into that rest which remains for the people of God. I trust your Lordship will now awake into a new world, and know what it is to live by faith. Did I not know the power of Christ’s blood, I should fear for you. But I commend you to a glorious Redeemer, that will certainly take care of you. As I left your Lordship’s house, I was thinking, that the narrow escape your Lordship had between the stones, foreboded something good. Jesus has taken care of you when in your blood. I hope he is now passing by you, and saying unto you, “Live.” O that the stone of infidelity, which before lay at the door of your heart, may be now rolled away! O that you may rise, be loosed from your corruptions, and go about doing good! Satan will not let you go without much opposition. He will desire to have you, that he may sift you as wheat. But if Jesus prays for you, all will be well. The comfort which you had with him in reading the psalms, is a taste of the food believers daily eat, and which the carnal world knows nothing of. My Lord, if you could be brought once to love secret prayer, and to converse feelingly with God in his word, your heaven will begin on earth; you will enjoy more pleasure than in all manner of riches. What will those avail, if you are not rich towards God? Be, therefore, my Lord, much in secret retirement. Commune with your own heart in your chamber, and be still, and you will then hear the secret whispers of the Holy Ghost. As for praying in your family, I intreat you, my Lord, not to neglect it. You are bound to do it. Apply to Christ for strength to overcome your present fears. They are the effects of pride, or infidelity, or of both. After once or twice, the difficulty will be over. O that the blessed Spirit may enable you to make intercession with groaning that cannot be uttered! It rejoices me to think, that I shall one day perhaps see a church in Melvill house. Happy, happy are you, my Lord, in having such a consort, who will forward your Lordship in every good word and work. How sweet will it be for you to go early to your devotions, striving to live like the first happy pair, before they had eaten the forbidden fruit. As God shall enable me, I shall bear you both upon my heart. God forbid that I should sin against him in ceasing to pray for you. My riding upon your Lordship’s horse, will often remind me to pray for the donor. My Lord, you are upon my heart. Methinks I would undergo the pangs of the new birth for you; but Jesus can carry you through. Fear not. Go on in his strength, and your Lordship will be enabled to stand the shock of all. I should be glad to hear, from time to time, what the Lord is doing for your soul. Since your Lordship has laid your commands upon me, I shall write as often as possible. If your Lordship is pleased to write within this week, a letter may be directed to me at Mrs. J――’s, in Abergavenny. If afterwards, at Mr. S――’s, Grocer, in Wine-street, Bristol. Your Lordship may depend on my secresy; no one hath seen your Lordship’s letter, but Mr. S――, who copies this, and who is as my own soul. His prayers, I trust, will benefit your Lordship. His humble respects await both you and your lady. Once more, I pray God to bless you both together. But it is late, the clock has struck twelve. Methinks I could wish the cry was now made, “Behold, the bridegroom cometh.” My soul longs to go forth to meet him. This evening I was greatly refreshed by preaching on these words, “This is my beloved, and this is my friend, oh daughters of Jerusalem.” O when shall I see him as he is! Well may your Lordship say, “He is altogether lovely.” The more you know him, the more you will have reason to commend him. Eternity is too short to utter all his praise. With a heart full of affection and thanks for all favours, I beg leave to subscribe myself, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s most obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXIX.

To Mr. J―― C――, at London.

Edinburgh, October 27, 1741.

My very dear Brother,

ALTHOUGH it be past eleven at night, yet I cannot miss a post. The Lord is doing very great things here. At Dundee the C―― was very extraordinary. On sabbath-day, the Lord enabled me to preach four times, and to lecture in the evening at a private house. Yesterday I preached three times, and lectured at night. This day Jesus has enabled me to preach seven times. Once in the church, twice at the girl’s hospital, once in the park, once at the old people’s hospital, and afterwards twice in a private house. Notwithstanding, I am now as fresh as when I arose in the morning. “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount on wings like eagles.” It would delight your soul to see the effects of the power of God. Both in the church and park the Lord was with us. The girls in the hospital were exceedingly affected, and so were the standers-by. One of the mistresses told me, she is now awakened in the morning by the voice of prayer and praise; and the master of the boys says, that they meet together every night to sing and pray; and when he goes to their rooms at night to see if all be safe, he generally disturbs them at their devotions. The presence of God, at the old people’s hospital, was really very wonderful. The Holy Spirit seemed to come down like a mighty rushing wind. The mourning of the people, was like the weeping in the valley of Hadadrimmon. They appear more and more hungry. Every day I hear of some fresh good wrought by the power of God. I scarce know how to leave Scotland. I believe I shall think it my duty to pay the inhabitants another visit as soon as possible. May the Lord order my goings in his ways! Above five hundred pounds hath been collected, in money and goods, for the poor orphans. Let all that is within me praise God’s holy name. To-morrow, God willing, I shall leave this place, and go through Wales, in my way to London. You may hear from me on the road. At present, I must conclude; it is very near twelve. I intreat you to pray and give thanks for, dear brother C――,

Your’s most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXX.

To the Right Honourable the Lord L――.

Abergavenny, Nov. 10, 1741.

My Lord,

I Cannot bear the thoughts of forbearing to write to your Lordship any longer. I know your Lordship will be pleased to hear that we had a good journey. Christ’s presence made it so. The horse carried me exceeding well. My heart was often drawn out to pray for the donor. Does your Lordship’s soul prosper? Has Jesus said, “Be of good cheer, it is I; be not afraid, thy sins are forgiven thee.” Can it yet be said, “Behold, he prayeth.” I find a restraint upon me now, so that I cannot write. God calls me to retirement; being to enter into the marriage state to-morrow. I am persuaded your Lordship will not fail to pray, that we may, like Zachariah and Elizabeth, walk in all the ordinances and commandments of the Lord blameless. I hope my most humble respects will find acceptance with your Lady. Indeed, my Lord, you are both much upon my heart. Though I have only liberty now to subscribe myself, with all gratitude, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s most obedient and obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXI.

To Mr. T――, at Edinburgh.

Abergavenny, Nov. 19, 1741.

THIS morning I received your kind letter; for which, and all other favours, you have my most hearty thanks. I remembered you in prayer, soon after your’s came to hand: blessed be God for the news which it contained. I yet expect to hear of, if not to see far greater things in Scotland. The Lord has begun, and he will carry on a work, which shall make the ears of his enemies to tingle. I have enjoyed much of the divine presence since we parted. On Saturday I was married, in the fear of God, to one who, I hope, will be a help meet to me. God has been pleased to work, by my hands, since I have been in Wales. O stupendous love! O infinitely condescending God! Be pleased to direct your next to London. I hope to be there in about three weeks. My wife I shall leave in the country for some time. Dear Mr. T――, pray for us. I do for you and yours. Labour after an abiding of God in your soul, so that you may continually by faith see him who is invisible. Do not be content with being a dwarf in religion: aspire after the utmost degrees of inward purity and holiness. I could go on, but must write some more letters. Dear brother S――, and my dear wife, salute you and all friends. They are not forgotten, dear Mr. T――, by

Your most unworthy, but most affectionate friend and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXII.

To the Right Honourable Lady D――, in Scotland.

Bristol, Nov. 22, 1741.

Honoured Madam,

AT length I have a little leisure. I must improve it, by writing a letter to your Ladyship. The many favours conferred on me, loudly called for a more speedy acknowledgment; but hitherto, business for my Master has prevented. Dear Mrs. C――’s letter will inform your Ladyship that I have altered my state; I trust for the better; for I think my soul is more intimately united to Jesus Christ than ever. I would humbly hope your Ladyship can say so too; for there is no happiness till we can feel an union of soul with God. That, and that only, as your Ladyship has often heard me assert, is true and undefiled religion. Your own experience will best convince you of the truth thereof. Your Ladyship enjoys great advantages, and glorious means of making progress in spiritual things. You are rich in this world’s goods; may God make you rich in faith and good works! My Master will not forget the kindness you have shewn to one of the least of his servants. It gives me comfort to think, what sweet freedom of spirit I have enjoyed, when opening the scriptures in your Ladyship’s house. Surely God was with us of a truth. The savour of it is not yet gone off my own soul, nor, I hope, from your Ladyship’s also. Since I left Edinburgh, I have put up many hearty prayers for you and your family. The Lord make it an houshold of faith, and make you perfect, entire, lacking nothing! The glorious Emmanuel seems to be repairing the breaches of his tabernacle, which were fallen down. In Wales we had much of the divine presence. The people there are so hungry after the word, that they are resolved not to leave wrestling with the Most High, till he shall be pleased to send me thither. O that God may incline your Ladyship to intercede in my behalf! for I long to be humble, and to lie low as a very poor sinner at the Redeemer’s feet. I think I can say, he brings me nearer and nearer to himself daily; and I will not rest, till I am moulded into the image of my bleeding Lord. I pray God that your Ladyship may be content with no degrees of holiness; but may be daily pressing forward, till you arrive at the mark of the prize of the high calling in Christ Jesus. Mr. S―― desires to join with me in sending our most affectionate respects and thanks to your Ladyship and all friends. Our particular respects await dear Mr. M^cV――. I trust he will yet live to see glorious days of the Son of Man. Surely Christ is getting himself the victory. May he long reign king in your soul, and reward you a thousand-fold for every token of love shewn to, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most obedient humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXIII.

To the Right Honourable the Earl of L――.

Bristol, Nov. 24, 1741.

My Lord,

MY heart longs to send you another letter. I wish, above all things, that your soul may prosper. I had an extraordinary power given me to pray for you lately in Wales. God gave me to wrestle, and I think an assurance that I should prevail. I am looking out for an answer. Your Lordship’s next letter, I hope, will afford me matter for rejoicing in your behalf. Your Lordship is now entered on the field of battle: you are engaged in a cruel, but a glorious warfare. Go on; though faint, yet still pursue: nil desperandum, Christo duce, auspice Christo. My prayer for your Lordship is this:

Give him a will, give him the pow’r,

Still equal to the war;

Great Captain of Salvation, thou

Thy trembling soldier chear!

O, my Lord, it is a blessed thing to fight the Redeemer’s battles: I find he makes us more than conquerors through his love. I still enjoy much of the divine presence, and hope I pass from glory to glory daily. I preach here at six in the morning, and also in the evening. God causes his goodness to pass before us. In a week I hope to set out for London. Be pleased to direct your next thither. The lords have returned my appeal. At present, a hook is put in the leviathan’s nose. “When a man’s ways please the Lord, he maketh his enemies to be at peace with him.” I hope your Lady prospers both in body and soul. My own, and dear fellow-travellers most humble respects and prayers attend your whole houshold. I am, with great affection, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s most obedient humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXIV.

To T―― E――, in Edinburgh.

Bristol, Nov. 27, 1741.

My dear Friend,

WHEN we parted, I promised your wife to write upon the road; but I found it impracticable. Since I came to Wales I have had no time. Now I have, God gives me freedom. Though late, be pleased to accept a letter of thanks for all favours. I think we felt each others spirits, both, I trust, united mystically, really, and eternally to Christ, our common head, and to one another in love. O that all would center here. It would then be said once again, “See how these Christians love one another.”—As for my own part, I am resolved not to rest till every thing, contrary to true, catholic, christian love, be rooted out of my soul. Christ’s blood and spirit are able to do this for me. I only need to pray to God to make me willing to have it done. Be pleased to help me, my dear friend, when God enables you to draw near unto him. My dear companion would beg the same. Our tender love awaits both you and your wife. I am lately entered into the marriage relation. Jesus was called to; Jesus was present at the marriage. We have lately enjoyed much of the divine presence. Many precious promises have been pressed upon my soul. I believe I shall see greater things than ever. We cannot expect too great things from God. But I must have done. I am waited for. Accept these few lines in love, from

Your affectionate friend and brother in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXV.

To Mr. A――, in London.

Bristol, Nov. 30, 1741.

My very dear Brother,

I Thank you for your kind letter. Though I hope to see you on Friday, yet love constrains me to send you an answer. I rejoice that your soul is thirsting for holiness. God grant it may never cease till you experience the full and glorious liberty of his children. I see plainly how satan loves to drive to extremes. Since there is no such thing as having the in-being of sin destroyed, he would not have people press after a delivery from the power of it. This is also owing to the corruption of our own hearts. The old man doth not love to be crucified and slain; but I hope the language of your heart and mine is this,

Reign in me, Lord, thy foes controul,

That would refuse thy sway;

Diffuse thy image thro’ my soul,

And bring the perfect day.

Scatter the last remains of sin,

And seal me thine abode;

O set me purified within;

A temple meet for God.

My root of holiness thou art,

For faith hath made thee mine;

With all thy fulness fill my heart,

Till I am wholly thine.

No wonder, when we come to be thus minded, if carnal ministers, and carnal professors of all kinds, cry out against us. Nay, even some who have tasted that the Lord is gracious, having slumbered and slept, and mixed too much with the world, even such frequently fight against their privileges, and rest in an infant state of piety. But, I believe, the Lord will rouse them, and let the world know, what the blood of Jesus can and will do. Blessed be his name, we have a growing church at Bristol. Yesterday, and several other times, the Lord hath filled many as with new wine. Sometimes I scarce have known whether I have been in or out of the body; but, I find, the more I receive of grace, the more I desire to lie as a poor, very poor sinner at the feet of the wounded Lamb. Several have just now been with me, who have this last week, especially yesterday, drank deep of divine love. They are now full of the comforts of the Holy Ghost. I pray that they may walk humbly with their God; for it is a good thing to know how to manage a manifestation aright: nature so frequently and artfully blends with grace, that, for want of a close watch and tender walk, we grieve the Holy Spirit. Hence arise deadness and darkness in the soul. Unbelief creeps in, the chariot wheels of divine love are taken off, and the soul drives heavily. Let us, therefore, my dear brother, live a life of great nearness to Jesus; and labour day by day to perfect holiness in the fear of God. There is a glorious rest to be entered into even here. May the Lord make us partakers of it! But why should I in the least doubt it?

Thou wilt give strength, thou wilt give power, thou wilt in time set free:

This, great Deliverer, let me hope; this, not for self, but Thee.

For the present, adieu!

Yours most affectionately in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXVI.

To Mr. J―― H――.

London, Dec. 7, 1741.

My very dear Friend and Brother,

I Came hither last Friday, and received a packet of letters from Bethesda; but wonder to find none from you. When I read brother Grant’s account of the circumstances of the family, I remember what the Lord pressed upon my soul on ship-board, “The bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast in those days.” However, be not discouraged; professor F――’s students were once obliged to sell their cloaths to buy candles. The work of God advances here greatly. We have a large society, consisting of several hundreds, and a noble place to meet in: I have called it a Tabernacle, because, perhaps, we may be called to move our tents. In Wiltshire, and at Kingswood, there are many good souls, and two new houses built. In Wales the door is opened wider than ever. From thence (Abergavenny) the Lord has given me a wife. Her name was James, a widow, between thirty and forty years of age. She has been a housekeeper many years. Once gay; but, for three years last past, a despised follower of the Lamb of God. I left her about three weeks ago, and am going to-morrow to settle affairs, and to bring her up to London. I thank your dear wife for her letter: had I freedom I would answer it: but I have essayed several times before I could finish this. My sister G―― is dead: I trust she slept in Jesus. God is pleased to let me feel more of his power than ever. O that his whole mind was in me! I hunger and thirst after righteousness: blessed be God, there is a promise that such shall be filled. By the letters sent with this, my dear family will see that I have not forgotten them. No: I pray for them continually. I cannot certainly tell when I shall leave England. Providence detains me here. The work is very extraordinary in Scotland. I hear daily accounts of its continuance and increase. The door is opened in all places. The Lords see through Mr. G――’s enmity, and will have nothing to do with my appeal: so that a hook is put into the leviathan’s jaws. I believe we shall see greater things than ever. My dear friend, salute all most tenderly in my name; I am exceedingly engaged, or each of them should hear particularly from,

Ever, ever yours in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXVII.

To the Right Honourable Lord R――.

Gloucester, Dec. 19, 1741.

My Lord,

THIS comes to acknowledge the receipt of your Lordship’s kind letter, dated November 9th. Business has prevented my answering it sooner. The Lord is yet pleased to deal bountifully with me. In England, as well as Scotland, the Redeemer is riding on from conquering to conquer. About Spring I hope to see Scotland again, and then, if possible, I will come as far as your Lordship’s house. I have lately been at Bristol, and London, and have had the pleasure of seeing the church walk in the comforts of the Holy Ghost. I have preached here twice every day, for some days last past. The Lord greatly countenances my administrations, and gives me constant peace and uninterrupted joy in believing. This is what, I trust, our glorious Emmanuel will confer upon your Lordship. Christ wills that our joy should be full; but we entangle ourselves with the world, we indulge ourselves in sensual pleasures, we trifle away our time in what the world calls innocent diversions, and thereby we grieve the spirit of God, and lose the comforts we should otherwise enjoy, from a close walk and communion with God. Most complain of a deadness and leanness in their souls; what is it owing to? Not to God, but to ourselves. We leave God, and then God leaves us. Not that we can keep ourselves by our own faithfulness; but notwithstanding, we must be faithful, and workers together with God. I know not why I am led to write thus to your Lordship, but nothing else occurs to my mind at present. I am athirst for holiness myself, and long to see others athirst also. O my Lord! I see such beauty and transcendent excellencies in Christ, that I long to have his whole mind and image stamped upon my soul. Nothing can satisfy me, but the highest degrees of sanctification and inward holiness. Here, I believe, I am laudably ambitious. My Saviour wills my sanctification, my Saviour would have me filled with all the fulness of God. Even so Lord Jesus come quickly! Dear Mr. S―― humbly salutes your Lordship, and prays for your temporal and eternal welfare, with, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s most obedient, obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXVIII.

To Mr. J―― C――, at London.

Gloucester, Dec. 22, 1741.

My dear Brother,

LAST Thursday evening the Lord brought me hither. I preached immediately to our friends in a large barn, and had my master’s presence. On Friday and Saturday I preached again twice. Both the power, and the congregation increased. On Sunday God by a particular providence opened a door for my preaching in St. John’s, one of the parish churches. The late incumbent was my grand opposer. He being dead, and the new minister not having taken possession, the power of the pulpit was in the church-wardens hands. God inclined them to let me preach there on Sunday morning, and yesterday afternoon. Great numbers came, and the Lord gave me unspeakable power. On Sunday afternoon, after I had preached twice at Gloucester, I preached at Mr. F――’s at the hill, six miles off and again at night at Stroud. The people seem to be more hungry than ever, and the Lord to be more amongst them. Yesterday morning I preached at Painswick in the parish church, here in the afternoon, and again at night in the barn. God gives me unspeakable comfort, and uninterrupted joy. Here seems to be a new awakening, and a revival of the work of God. I find, several country people were awakened when I preached at Tewksbury, and have heard of three or four that have died in the Lord, who were called under God by me. We shall never know what good field-preaching has done, till we come to judgment. Many who were prejudiced against me, begin to be of another mind, and God shews me more and more, “that when a man’s ways please the Lord, he will make even his enemies to be at peace with him.” To-morrow morning I purpose to set out for Abergavenny, and to preach at Bristol, in Wilts, Gloucester, and Gloucestershire, before I see London. The people in these parts seem excellently well disposed. I hope the work of the Lord prospers in your hand; though absent in body, I am present with you in spirit. May the Lord Jehovah comfort you continually with those comforts wherewith I am comforted in him! I hope my comforts are of a right nature; they humble at the same time that they exalt me. I find all my happiness lies in a crucified God.

To the blest fountain of thy blood,

Incarnate God, I fly;

Here let me wash my spotted soul,

From crimes of deepest dye.

A guilty, weak, and helpless worm,

Into thy arms I fall;

Be thou my strength and righteousness,

My Jesus, and my all.

Pray for

Your unworthy brother, and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXIX.

To the Right Honourable the Lord L――.

Abergavenny, Dec. 24, 1741.

My Lord,

THIS day I received a letter from your Lordship, which, I find, your Lordship wrote before my third and last came to hand, wherein I gave your Lordship an account of the circumstance of my marriage. As soon as I received your Lordship’s letter, I kneeled down and prayed, that your Lordship might be entirely delivered from unbelief, and be made a partaker of that faith, which will make you more than conqueror over all. Blessed be God, for convincing you thus far. I hope the event will prove, that Jesus is taking possession of your whole heart. Your Lordship’s opinion of those who call themselves christians, is very just. Free grace has opened your eyes. Your Lordship can therefore join in the following verses, which I think applicable to your Lordship’s case.

I.

Long did my soul in Jesu’s Form,

No comeliness or beauty see;

His sacred name by others priz’d,

Was tastless still, and dead to me.

II.

Men call’d me christian, and my heart

On that delusion fondly staid;

Moral my hope, my Saviour self,

Till mighty grace the cheat display’d.

III.

Thanks to the hand that wak’d my soul,

That shew’d me wretched, naked, poor;

That sweetly led me to the rock,

Where all salvation stands secure.

IV.

Glad, I forsook my righteous pride,

My moral, tarnish’d, sinful dress;

Exchang’d my loss away for Christ,

And found the robe of righteousness.

If your Lordship from your soul can sing thus, fear not that Jesus will leave you.

O unbelief, injurious bar,

Source of tormenting fruitless fear;

Wherein thy loud objections fall,

“Tis finished,” still shall answer all.

Remember, my Lord, the Redeemer’s love is everlasting. If he has passed by, and said unto you “Live,” you shall live for evermore; for whosoever liveth and believeth in Jesus, shall never die. Does my Lord believe this? Then welcome into the new world, welcome among the despised Israel of God, welcome into the Mediator’s kingdom, where you shall have all peace and joy in believing. When first I was awakened,

Refreshed, I thought my joys compleat,

When lo! Immanuel’s bounties rise;

Still fresh discoveries he unfolds,

The lovely treasures yet surprize!

My Lord, I now wonder no longer at the choice of Moses. Well might he count the reproach of Christ of more value than all the riches of Egypt. God forbid, therefore, that you or I should henceforth glory, save in the cross of Christ. It will be more honour to be a suffering servant of Christ, than to be the king’s commissioner. Your Lordship will pardon this freedom. Methinks I hear you say, “There is no comparison.” Indeed there is none. I would not change my post for ten thousand kingdoms. Blessed be God, that has given you a distant view of the emptiness of all things here below, and the insufficiency of every thing to make us happy besides God. May these things be realized, and stamped upon your Lordship’s heart! Then what a happy creature will your Lordship be? How will it rejoice me to see your Lordship next Spring. I know not but my friends prayers may draw me there, about that time. In the mean while, I pray God from time to time to grant you a growth of grace, that you may know what it is to abide in God, and have a constant indwelling of the Holy Ghost. I rejoice to hear that lady Ann seems to look heavenward. May Jesus make her a wise virgin! For her encouragement, I have sent an extract of a letter lately sent to me by a friend in London; and that your Lordship may know how it is with me, I have sent a copy of a letter I wrote to that friend a day or two ago. Last night I came hither, and preached this afternoon. I purpose shortly to go to Gloucester, Bristol, Wiltshire, and so to London. The church there as well as elsewhere flourishes. The time for favouring Zion, I believe, is indeed come. You see, my Lord, how long my letters are, when I have freedom and leisure. I have thought several times to write to your Lordship, but was restrained till I received your Lordship’s letter this morning. Be pleased to direct your next to be left with Mr. P―― S――, Leadenhall-street, London. My prayers shall follow this. O may Jesus breath upon it, and then it must be blessed to your soul! I heartily and humbly salute the elect lady your wife.—May you both be filled with all the fulness of God! My dear wife and Mr. S―― join heartily with me. We all plead at the throne of grace in your behalf, and God alone knows, how often you are remembered and wrestled for, by, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s most obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXX.

To the Right Honourable Lady Mary H――.

Abergavenny, Dec. 24, 1741.

Honoured Madam,

THIS morning I received your Ladyship’s kind letter; when perused, I laid it before the Lord of all Lords, and prayed for you and yours with all my power. My dear wife and Mr. S―― joined heartily with me, and by this send their most humble respects. We do not despair of waiting upon your Ladyship next Spring: but ere that time, we may be all launched into the world of spirits, where we shall sing glory to him that sitteth upon the throne for ever. Does not your Ladyship long for that happy hour? Methinks I hear you ready to say

I.

How long, great God! how long must I,

Immers’d in this dark prison lie?

When shall I leave this dusky sphere,

And be all mind, all eye, all ear?

II.

I long to see that excellence,

Which at such distance strikes my sense;

My soul attempts to disengage

Her wings from this her earthly cage.

III.

Wouldst thou, Great Love, once set her free,

Hast’ning she’d quick unite to thee;

She’d for no guardian angels stay,

But fly and love thro’ all the way.

This, I believe, was the language of your honoured mother’s heart, who is now joined with the heavenly choir above. Methinks I hear her say, “Daughter, follow me as I followed Christ; aspire after the highest degrees of holiness, for the more holy you are, the nearer shall you sit to the God-Man Christ Jesus, the deeper insight shall you have into the beatific vision.” This, honoured Madam, is a great motive to my soul to copy after my glorious Jesus. Blessed be God, that made my letter savory to your soul. For this, and all other mercies, I desire to lie in the dust, and kiss the Redeemer’s feet. I do not wonder that Mary loved to sit there: I do not wonder that another Mary wiped them with the hairs of her head. Was my Lord here, I should wish for a thousand alabaster boxes of ointment, to break for him. But Jesus says, “Give me thy heart, and I desire no more.” My soul replies,

Take my poor heart, and let it be

For ever clos’d to all but thee;

Seal thou my breast, and let me wear

That pledge of love for ever there.

How blest are they who still abide,

Close shelter’d in thy bleeding side;

Who life and strength from thence derive,

And by thee move, and in thee live.

O honoured Madam, I am amazed at Jesus’s love. I willingly, join with you in saying, “Amen, Hallelujah! Worthy, indeed, is the Lamb that was slain.” I bless God for enlarging your heart, and giving you freedom to write. It is sweet to communicate our thoughts of Jesus. I hope the Lord will bless this to your Ladyship, and reward you for all past favours. My humble respects attend Mr. H――, and my hearty love to your little lambs. I prayed for them this morning. When I go to town, I hope to wait upon the Marquis.――I have been a short circuit into Gloucestershire, and find the divine presence accompanying me more and more. O that I was humble! O that I was thankful!

I.

And can it be that I should gain

An interest in the Saviour’s blood?

Died he for such as caus’d his pain,

Sinners who him to death pursu’d?

II.

’Tis mystery all, Messiah dies;

Who can explore this strange design?

In vain the curious seraph tries

To sound the depths of love divine.

But whither am I going? Your Ladyship will excuse me; whilst I am writing, the fire kindles.

Thro’ all eternity to God,

A grateful song I’ll raise;

But O eternity’s to short,

To utter all his praise.

With expectation of another letter, and with hearty prayers for your temporal and spiritual welfare, I subscribe myself, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s obedient servant,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXXI.

To Mr. Samuel M――, in London.

Bristol, Dec. 28, 1741.

Dear Mr. M――,

BOTH my wife and I received your letters. I send this, to thank you for them. I came from Abergavenny on Saturday night. My dear wife was pretty well; I expect her here on Friday. We shall bring no more goods to London, than we shall use; but I know not what to say about coming to your house, for brother S―― tells me, you and your family are dilatory, and that you do not rise sometimes till nine or ten in the morning. This, dear Mr. M――, will never do for me; and I am persuaded such a conduct tends much to the dishonour of God, and to the prejudice of your own precious soul. Sometimes I have looked upon you with grief; you have busied yourself about the outward affairs of religion in respect to others, and all the while I fear neglected to look into, and study the improvement of your own heart. I think you go backwards instead of forwards. I fear your present business will not answer, and I am sure you will have no solid comfort, till you look less abroad and more at home. Somebody said, you was like the Athenians, who desired to hear some new-thing. I thought the observation was too just. You are jealous about principles, (which is right) but all the while your own practice is not sufficiently watched over. I have heard that you spend much time in coffee-houses, and from your own house. I hope these things are not so; and it is with grief and out of tender love that I now mention them to you. For some time I felt my heart quite locked up from writing to you. Mr. M―― will not be offended with me for this plain dealing. You know I love you, and I am sure this letter proceeds from love. I know too much of my own weakness and infirmities to insult others; and when a brother is overtaken in a fault, I desire to restore him in the spirit of meekness. But I know how much the glory of God is concerned in our walk. The eyes of the world are now in an especial manner upon you. How holy ought you and I, dear Mr. M――, to be, in all manner of conversation and godliness! Labour therefore, my dear brother, to get an abiding presence of God in your heart. Be willing to be searched. Pray that you may feel the full power of the Redeemer’s blood; and walk in the continued comforts of the holy ghost. Be not slothful in business. Go to bed seasonably, and rise early. Redeem your precious time: pick up the fragments of it, that not one moment may be lost. Be much in secret prayer. Converse less with man, and more with God. Accept this advice, given in great love. I purpose staying here about a fortnight. Dear Mr. M――, I am

Your affectionate though unworthy brother, and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER CCCLXXXII.

To the Rev. Mr. W――, at Dundee.

Bristol, Dec. 30, 1741.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Should blame myself much, for not writing to you before now, was I conscious it was owing to any wilful neglect: but my master’s business hath so engaged me, that I really have not had an opportunity. God gave us a sweet journey to England. Since my return hither, I have been at Gloucester, Bristol, in Wales, and at London, and have great reason to bless our Emmanuel for what he has done for his church. My soul hath drank largely of the divine love. I have been carried as on eagles wings, and am now better in health than perhaps ever since I have been in the ministry. I preach here twice daily. In about a fortnight, I shall remove to London, where I purpose to continue, God willing, till the weather permits of field-preaching again. About Spring, if Providence favours, I hope to pay you a second visit. In the mean while, I should be glad to hear from you, what fruits you have seen spring from my first. I hope the Lord will make your latter end greatly to increase. I shall rejoice to hear of your success. My soul is much engaged for poor Scotland. I shall be glad to hear who has succeeded the good Mr. W―― of Perth. Ah dear man! He is now gone into the world of spirits, where there is no seceding, but all join in one common strife, who shall praise their Lord and master in the most exalted strains. I long to follow, but desire patiently to wait till my blessed change come. What a comfort, dear Sir, is it to think, that death is conquered. How sweet to be one of Christ’s waiting servants! It is a blessed post! And such honour belongs to all his saints. Thanks be to God for this unspeakable gift. Dear Sir, whilst I am writing, the fire kindles. I long to leap my seventy years. Welcome eternity; I want to see time swallowed up. But I must have done, having other letters to write. My kind love to your household and all friends. I hope ere long you will send a line to, reverend and dear Sir,