LETTERS (continued 3)

Your Honour’s most obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER DLXXXVI.

To Mrs. P――.

New-Town, (Maryland) May 6, 1747.

Dear Mrs. P――,

I Must refrain no longer from returning you thanks for two or three kind letters with which you have favoured me. They seemed to speak the language of a heart concerned for Zion’s glory. Well! Blessed are they that mourn for those who will not mourn for themselves, verily they shall be comforted. Blessed are they who are enabled to walk with God in a declining day;—they shall shine hereafter with a distinguished lustre. Thus Enoch did,—and Enoch was remarkably honoured.—“He was not, for God took him.”—But shall the harps of Boston Christians be always hanging on the willows? No; Jesus will not be always chiding. He that has brought on this pleasant Spring, after so hard a Winter, can thaw men’s hearts, and cause the turtle once more to be heard in the land. Hasten that time, O blessed Lord!—I hope you will keep close to your prayer-days. I have received the memorials from dear Mr. P――, and shall disperse them. I should be glad of a line from him. How are his dear daughters, and the other members of your society? I do not forget you, indeed I do not. If affection guided me, you would soon see me; but the people in these Southern parts are like people that have no shepherd. Surely I ought to go out after them. To-day I have had a sweet season. People are very ready to hear, and the word seems to fasten in some souls. Follow me with your prayers. Remember me to your husband, and to all, in the most cordial manner, and believe me to be

Your very affectionate friend, and willing servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DLXXXVII.

To Madam P――.

Dover, (Pensylvania) May 8, 1747.

Honoured Madam,

THE great though unmerited regard you have always been pleased to express for me, emboldens me now and then to drop you a line to inform you, that you are not forgotten by me before that God whose mercy endureth for ever. I trust, your latter end, like that of Job’s, will greatly increase, and that you will, as it is said of the righteous, “Bring forth much fruit in old age.” Your honoured husband (to whom be pleased to present my dutiful respects) I suppose is now with you. The Lord hath honoured you with many honours, and I hope, amidst all outward favours, does not withhold the comforting influences of his blessed spirit from your soul. I have reason to believe, you esteem this above all earthly things whatsoever. O, dear Madam! how mean and contemptible does every creature appear, when the soul gets a near view of a crucified Redeemer! How easy to bear pain, when one meditates on the agony and bloody sweat of an incarnate God! Here then, honoured madam, fix your eye. Look unto Jesus continually. He hath been the author, he will be the finisher of your faith. I find him to be a God that changeth not, a tender and compassionate High Priest. Thro’ his help, I continue to this day preaching amongst poor sinners the unsearchable riches of his dying love, I am as well in health as I can expect to be, and more and more determined to spend and be spent for the good of precious and immortal souls. Through grace, my labours are rendered very acceptable in various places. Be pleased, Madam, to remember me before the throne. I neither forget you nor the General.—I pray that God’s loving kindnesses and fatherly corrections may make you truly great, and beg leave to subscribe myself, honoured Madam,

Your affectionate, obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER DLXXXVIII.

To Mr. B――, Senior.

Dover, May 8, 1747.

Very dear Mr. B――,

I Think it is high time for me to send you a line of thanks, for the favours you have been pleased to shew me, while others were loading me with scorn and contempt. A weak body and continued employ in the service of the best of Masters, occasion my not writing so frequently to my dear friends, as love and gratitude would prompt me to do. You will accept this unfeigned apology, and still increase the obligations you have laid upon me, by continuing to remember me before the Lord. I have need, great need of the united prayers of my christian friends.—For Jesus hath of late so remarkably appeared for me, that I ought to lay myself out more and more in going about endeavouring to do good to precious and immortal souls. At present this is my settled resolution. The Redeemer seems to approve of it; for the fields in the Southern parts are white ready unto harvest, and many seem to have the hearing ear. All next October, God willing, I have devoted to poor North-Carolina. It is pleasant hunting in the woods after the lost sheep for whom the Redeemer hath shed his precious blood. May the Lord of the harvest spirit up more to go forth in his strength, to compel poor sinners to come in! I hope that you and my other Boston friends do go in and out, and find good pasture. I hear it is a Winter time with many. May God keep the fatal languor from extending to the circle of my intimate friends! For alas, what is a christian without a holy warmth? Will you remember me to all that you know, in the most tender manner? I beseech them by the mercies of God, to live near to Jesu’s cross, and whatever others may do, let them and theirs serve the Lord Christ. You will remember me in particular to Mr. F――, and his family, Mr. V―― and wife, your dear son, and your whole houshold, as being, dear Sir,

Your most affectionate, obliged friend and brother in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DLXXXIX.

To Mr. H―― S――.

Dover, May 9, 1747.

AS you were my kind host and peculiar friend, I take the liberty of writing to you more frequently than to others. I hope you will accept of this as a token of my unfeigned gratitude and love. It brings you the news of my being advanced thus far, of my being in health, and employed in going about and preaching to poor sinners the unsearchable riches of Jesus Christ. I shall be more northward, God willing, in June, and possibly may stretch as far as some part of New-England.—But I am not yet determined. Pray for me, dear Mr. S――, that Jesus may direct my steps. I would not willingly go to the right hand or to the left, contrary to his blessed will, for ten thousand worlds.—When shall I have another line from you? It may be directed to me at Philadelphia. My dear yoke-fellow is there now. We travelled very pleasantly through the woods, and purpose returning to South-Carolina and Georgia in the fall. We lead a moving life, but I trust we move heaven-ward. O that Jesus may quicken all his dear people’s hearts, and cause them to mount on wings like an eagle! I hear that times are yet dead in New-England. It is dreadful to have winter all the year round. May your heart, my dear Sir, and the heart of your dear wife, and the hearts of all my dear friends, be kept close to Jesus, and continually flaming with love! I know you will readily say Amen. For the present, adieu. I must go to my delightful work, Preaching. Pray remember me to all. Let me have a line, and tell me whether the Lord stirs up any to lend an helping hand to, very dear Mr. S――,

Yours most affectionately in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DXC.

To the Reverend Mr. M――, junior.

Dover in Pensylvania, May 9, 1747.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

EVER since I have known and heard of you, the Lord Jesus Christ hath made you peculiarly dear to my soul. Your troubles and soul distresses have in some measure been my own. I have looked and learned from your case, that we are indeed but clay in the hands of the heavenly potter, and that a sovereign God may deal with us as it seemeth good in his sight. “His ways are in the deep waters, and his footsteps are not known.” What he does to us now, we know not, but we shall know hereafter. How will you be surprized, dear Sir, in a very short time, to see that Jesus, whom your soul loves, and who has many a time shed abroad his love in your heart; how will you be surprized to see him receive you into glory, and turning your late or present Egyptian darkness into celestial and eternal day? May the compassionate high priest till then support your sinking spirits, and enable you to cope with and overcome all those difficulties and temptations, which either the prevalency of an inveterate melancholy, or the malice of evil spirits, may make you the subject of! Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat; but surely Jesus prays for you, though as it were behind the curtain. Excuse this freedom, reverend Sir; redeeming love constrains me to write thus. I hope you will receive it, as it is written, in much love. If you enquire after me, I would inform you that I am travelling about, and preaching from time to time among poor sinners the unsearchable riches of Jesus Christ. I trust, my labours are not in vain in the Lord. The glorious Emmanuel has given me a pleasant Winter, and I hope is about to cause these southern wildernesses to blossom like a rose. You will follow me with your prayers. My most humble and affectionate respects await your aged father. My love to your nurse, and all York friends. I am

Yours most affectionately in Jesus Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DXCI.

To Mrs. B――.

Wicoacommoco, (Maryland) May 16, 1747.

Dear Mrs. B――,

HEARING by Captain Adams that the glorious Emmanuel holds your soul in life, I cannot help letting you know, past kindnesses are not yet forgotten, and that I wish you much spiritual and temporal prosperity. How does your soul prosper in these hard, dull and afflicting times? Has tribulation produced patience, patience experience, and experience hope; and do you find thereby the love of God shed abroad in your heart by the Holy Ghost? Happy then, unspeakably happy are you in being afflicted. With exultation of heart may you sing,

O happy rod!

That brought me nearer to my God.

I think I can say, it is good to bear the yoke of affliction in youth. It teaches one to keep silence, and weans us from a too great attachment to all sublunary enjoyments. I have a few strokes of my father’s rod from time to time, as well as you. But I find that his rod as well as his staff do comfort. I am a naughty child, and want much correction; but he that wounds, heals also, and in glory we shall find, that his loving correction hath made us great. O glory! It is yonder in view; Jesus stands at the top of the ladder to receive us into it. Look to him, dear Mrs. B――, for surely he is your never-dying husband.—Death itself shall not, death cannot part him and you. Had I strength equal to my will, I should write much of the Redeemer’s everlasting love; but my body is weak through continued journeyings and preaching. However, Christ’s strength is in some degree magnified in my weakness, and my preaching is blessed to poor souls. Amazing love! Maryland is yielding converts to the blessed Jesus. The gospel seems to be moving southward. Pray for me, that I may be unwearied in well doing, and follow the Lamb whithersoever he shall be pleased to lead me. Pray remember me in the kindest manner to your aged declining pastor, the other minister who lives about five miles from you, to Mr. J――, and all my kind nurses, and dear York friends. I find death and sickness have made great havock and alterations among them. May Jesus sanctify all events to the furtherance of his grace, in all their hearts, and give us to meet where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest! I salute you and all, and once more praying that you and yours may be watered by the blessed Jesus every ♦moment, I subscribe myself, dear Mrs. B――,

Your most affectionate, obliged servant in Jesus Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DXCII.

To the Reverend Mr. J―― R――.

Wicoacommoca, May 16, 1747.

CAN souls united in Jesus’s love ever forget one another? It is difficult, though I believe possible, and in dull seasons I fear too common. However, blessed be the Redeemer, I have not yet forgotten my dear Mr. R――. As a proof it, I send you these few lines by Captain Adams. You see whence they are dated. Methinks I see you rejoice, and ready to say, “And have the Marylanders also received the grace of God?” I trust some have indeed received his grace in sincerity. The harvest is promising.—The heat tries my wasting tabernacle, but, through Christ strengthening me, I intend persisting till I drop. Since I saw you, the glorious Emmanuel has multiplied my obligations to spend and be spent in his service a thousand-fold. The language of my heart at present is,

A willing and a chearful mind,

That life and all things cast behind,

Springs forth obedient to thy call;

A heart that no desire can move,

But still to adore, believe and love,

Give me, my Christ, my God, my all.

O dear Sir, continue to pray for me, that I may not flag in the latter stages of my road. I was in hopes of seeing you this Summer, but am afraid my engagements to preach in North-Carolina next October will prevent me. However, you and the other dear neighbouring ministers are always upon my heart. I pity them in their present distressing circumstances, and pray that they and you may have grace given to endure hardness like good soldiers of Jesus Christ. Your dear father I hear is discharged from all campaigns.—Ere long, the captain of our salvation will command us home also. The Lord grant that we may die like soldiers, fighting against the devil, the world, and the flesh. How are your dear brothers and son? Pray give my hearty love to them, and to your dear wife, and whole houshold. I salute you all from my dear fellow pilgrim now at Philadelphia; and praying that you may have thousands to be your joy and crown of rejoicing in the great day, I subscribe myself, reverend and very dear Sir,

Your very affectionate friend, brother and willing servant in Jesus Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DXCIII.

To the Reverend Mr. B――.

Near New-Town, (Maryland) May 21, 1747.

AND how does my dear friend and brother Mr. B―― after so long a silence? What a pity is it, that the Redeemer’s children cannot more frequently correspond with each other? Blessed be God, there is a time coming, when our fellowship with Jesus and one another shall never be interrupted. Now is the time for stirring; then will be a time for sitting, in no meaner place than (O amazing love!) at the right hand of the everloving, everlovely Lamb of God.—Well then my dear man, let us go on in his strength, and see what we can do for precious and immortal souls. Indeed they are purchased with the blood of God. This consideration excites me to persist in going out into the highways and hedges.—I have been now a three hundred mile circuit in Mary-land, and through one or two counties in Pensilvania. Every where people have a hearing ear, and I trust some have an obedient heart. I hope the time of singing of birds is come to New-England, and that your hands are full of work. I most heartily wish you very much success. I cordially salute your dear yoke-fellow, and all the followers of the Lamb, and beg you would not forget, my dear old friend,

Your affectionate

G. W.

LETTER DXCIV.

To the Reverend Mr. P――.

New-Town, May 21, 1747.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

IT sometimes gives me concern that I cannot hear oftener from you, and your dear son, whom I love so tenderly. But I suppose your hands are full of work for the best of masters. I pray him daily, that you may be crowned with much success. Though I have deserved a thousand and a thousand times over to be cast off, yet such is the divine goodness, that my labours in fresh places are made very acceptable daily. I have now been upon the stretch, preaching constantly for almost three weeks. I hope I can say with sincerity (O that I may say it with humility!) that God hath been with me of a truth. My body is often extremely weak, but the joy of the Lord is my strength, and by the help of my God I intend going on till I drop, or this poor carcase can hold out no more. These southern colonies lie in darkness, and yet, as far as I find, are as willing to receive the gospel as others. If some books could be purchased to dispose among poor people, much good might be done. Pray, Sir, have you any Latin school-books to spare? I shall want some for the Orphan-house. I hope to hear from you at Philadelphia, where I expect to be in a week’s time. In the mean while, reverend Sir, I beg you would make my most cordial and humble respects acceptable to all your reverend brethren, that honoured me with their acquaintance, as well as to your dear family and all other friends. I wish you and them millions and millions of blessings, and intreat the continuance of their and your prayers, for, reverend and very dear Sir,

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

G. W.

LETTER DXCV.

To Mr. H―― H――.

Philadelphia, May 30, 1747.

My dearest Brother,

HAD I strength equal to my will, you should now receive from me a very long letter; but at present I have such a fever upon me, that I can scarce send you a few lines. However I will try. Your dear letters in August last came to my hands last Lord’s-day.—They variously affected me, and put me on the search, whether I had neglected writing to my very dear man. Upon enquiry, I found that I wrote to you about the same time as I wrote to Mr. J――, and brother S――, and four or five times since. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, I am not suffered to forget old love and old friends. Indeed you are very dear to me,—all of you very dear to me still. I thank you ten thousand times for all expressions of your tender love, and for your steadiness in the truths and cause of Christ; and hope sometimes that your prayers will draw me to England more speedily than I imagine. But what shall I say, my dear friend? Here are thousands and thousands in America who as to spiritual things know not their right hand from their left; and who are ready to hear the gospel from my mouth. Since my coming this time from Georgia, I have been within these five weeks a circuit of 400 miles, and every where found the fields white ready unto harvest. Nobody goes out scarcely but myself. As you are in England and Wales, the power of religion I trust will be kept up; and though my coming should be delayed some time longer, yet when I am sent, it will be with the greater blessing. I am daily finishing my outward affairs, and shall think my call clearer home, when I have provided for the support of the Orphan-house. The generous benefactor’s letter pierced my heart, made me to shed tears of love, and to put up many prayers for him. I sent him a letter from Charles-Town under cover to Mr. B――. If the person be unknown, I see no impropriety in printing my letter in the Daily Advertiser or Evening Post. I am glad you have printed my letter to the Litchfield clergy, and want to know what effect my sermon on the rebellion has had. Our Lord has blessed it much in these parts. I shall be glad when the great Head of the church unites dear brethren again. I trust nothing shall be wanting on my part when I come over. An union before perhaps may not be so well. However, I leave it to you, my dear Sir, and think that the bar being taken away against people’s coming to the tabernacle, may be one good step towards it. I wait upon the Lord. As his grace increases in the heart, I am sure his children will grow less positive and more child-like, yet more steady. O my dear man, I could write all night long, but am so giddy by hard riding and preaching constantly in the heat of the day, that I must defer being more particular till another opportunity. I hope my dear wife will supply all my deficiencies. Remember me in the tenderest manner to all. Bid them to pray me to England; and in the mean while, they may assure themselves they are not forgotten by, my very dear brother,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DXCVI.

Philadelphia, June 1, 1747.

My dear Mr. H――,

I Make no apology for troubling you with the inclosed. I hear you have taken the Tabernacle outward affairs into your hands. I am glad of it, and pray the Lord of all Lords to make you a faithful steward of his manifold gifts. You will remember me most tenderly to dear Mrs. H――, and to all friends. Perhaps I may see you yet before I die. God is delivering me out of my embarrassments by degrees. With the collection made at Charles-Town, I have purchased a plantation and some slaves, which I intend to devote to the use of Bethesda. When a sufficient fund for the future support of that house is raised, so that it may not lie as a dead weight upon me when absent, I shall think my call clearer to England. At present I have full work here; the congregations yesterday were exceeding large, and for this month past I have been preaching to thousands in different places. I am sick and well, as I used to be in England; but the Redeemer fills me with comfort, and gives me to rejoice in his salvation day by day. I am determined in his strength to die fighting, and to go on till I drop. He is a Jesus worth dying for. Once more, remember us to all. We remember you, and am, as much as as ever, dear Mr. H――,

Your affectionate friend, brother and willing servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DXCVII.

To Mr. J―― S――.

Philadelphia, June 4, 1747.

Very dear Sir,

YESTERDAY I received your very kind and judicious letter. In answer to it, must inform you, that in all probability I shall once more see my dear New-England friends this summer. I suppose it will be some time in July. At present my whole frame of nature seems to be shocked.—I have had several returns of my convulsions, and have almost always a continual burning fever. With great regret I have omitted preaching one night (to oblige my friends,) and purpose to do so once more, that they may not charge me with murdering myself; but I hope yet to die in the pulpit, or soon after I come out of it. Dying is exceeding pleasant to me: for the Lord, though my body is so weak, causes my soul to rejoice exceedingly. Letters from England refreshed me; all of them call me home loudly. May Jesus direct my steps! I am poor and needy, but the Lord I am persuaded will be my helper. Outward affairs when I am weak pull me down; but the Lord can and will raise and keep me up.—I preach here with great acceptance. Congregations are as large as ever. Next Monday sevennight I purpose, God willing, to set out for New-York. I wrote lately from New-Town, to Messrs. Prince, W――, R――, &c. but am apt to believe the packet has miscarried. I think to come by way of Long-Island, and to return by Connecticut. You will not be slack in getting all to pray for me, who am, very dear Sir,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DXCVIII.

To Mr. P――.

Philadelphia, June 5, 1747.

Very Dear Sir,

THOUGH this frail nature of mine has lately received several very great shocks, yet I cannot, if strength admits, omit writing you a line. Glad was I when I came to town, to hear by Captain G―― that you was so far recovered, as to be able once more to go to the house of God. I heartily wish you, dear Sir, what the noble Colonel Gardiner once wished me, “A thriving soul in a healthy body.” Or however it may be with the one, I earnestly pray that the other may prosper. Sickness is often made use of as a means, in the hands of an all-gracious Father, to ripen our graces and fit us for heaven. Through grace, I can say it is good for me to be sick, though I am afraid I am too impatient to be gone. Well! He that cometh, will come, and cannot tarry long: till then may I be resigned, and work the works of him that sent me whilst it is day, before the night cometh when no man can work. I could proceed, but indeed, dear Sir, strength faileth me. However, I hope to see you and my other dear Charles-Town friends in November. O that till then we may every moment grow in grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. I would write to many, but weakness forbids. I must refer you to Mr. S―― for particulars concerning me. My dear yoke-fellow joins in sending cordial respects to yourself and all friends. Neither you nor they are forgotten by, very dear Sir,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DXCIX.

To Mr. B――.

Philadelphia, June 6, 1747.

My very dear Friend,

I Love you dearly, and therefore must, though in much weakness, send you a line. It informs you of my being sick, but withal of the Lord’s comforting me, and causing me to triumph over the king of terrors. Mr. B―― I suppose, ere this reaches you, will let you know that the word has run, and hath been glorified in Mary-land. Satan has attempted to stop the progress of the everlasting gospel in Virginia; but I believe he has overshot himself. How can it be otherwise? since eternal Truth hath said, “The seed of the woman shall bruise the serpent’s head.” I hope you find this true, by the daily conquest you get over the corruptions of your heart. Remember who hath promised to make you more than conqueror through his love. Our kind respects attend dear Mrs. B――, your son, and daughter, and all friends. O that we may meet grown in grace, and the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I subscribe myself, very dear Mr. B――,

Yours most affectionately in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DC.

To the Reverend Mr. S――.

Philadelphia, June 23, 1747.

Reverend and dear Sir,

SINCE my last, I have been several times on the verge of eternity. To-day I have got a few more spirits. I would improve them in answering your kind letter, which I received yesterday. I am obliged to Charles-Town friends: their example will certainly influence many here. Something is upon the anvil. Particulars expect in my next. To-morrow, God willing, I set out for New-York, to see if I can gain strength. At present I am so weak, that I cannot preach.—’Tis hard work to be silent; but I must be tried every way. Friends are exceeding kind. What is the best of all, the friend of sinners looks in upon, and comforts my heart. I have had loud calls to England. Matters go on bravely there and in Wales. My State Sermon has gone through two editions. They have also my five last sermons, which have convinced my friends that I am firm to my principles. May Jesus keep me steady till I die! I am glad Mr. P―― went off so well. His children I look upon as my own. The things which he had belong to me. I would have them taken to Providence: for that also Deus providebit. Your father is well, and always talking of you. Why did you not mention his wife in your letter? She is a discreet woman, and desired to be remembered to you. Every day she expects to lie in. You will excuse my enlarging.—Strength begins to fail me. However, whilst I have strength I would employ it in praying for you and yours. I subscribe myself, reverend and very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER DCI.

To Mr. R――.

New-York, June 28, 1747.

My dear Brother,

THANKS be to God, for revealing his dear Son in you. Thanks be to his great name for calling you to preach his everlasting gospel. I give him all the glory, and adore him for making ill and hell-deserving me, the happy instrument of alarming and awakening your dead soul. Ere long I hope we shall meet in eternity, to sing endless praises to him who has redeemed us unto God by his blood, and has made us kings and priests unto God, and enables us to reign over death, hell, and sin, even whilst here on earth. I abhor all those bad principles which you mention, and cannot join so as to labour in the same place, and upon the same plan, with those that hold them. However, let us behave with meekness, my dear brother, and we shall soon find that every plant that our heavenly father hath not planted, shall be plucked up. “He that believeth doth not make haste.” Jesus reigneth; let our eyes wait on Him. All things shall work, and even now are working, together for good to all that love him. In due time you will see me, perhaps next year. I am as willing to hunt for souls as ever. I am not weary of my master or his work, though he might long ago have been weary of me. But his name is Love. Proclaim it, my dear Sir, proclaim it till thou diest. By the strength of God I will. My love to all. I can now write no more, being recovered from a great illness. Continue to pray over

Your affectionate friend, brother and servant in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DCII.

To Dr. B――.

New-York, June 29, 1747.

Dear Sir,

SINCE I wrote to Doctor S――, I have preached to a very large auditory, and, blessed be God, do not find myself much worse for it this morning. As I am bound to thank you for all favours, so especially would I send my acknowledgments for promoting this northward excursion. I believe it will be a great means of restoring my health, which I value upon no other account, than as it renders me more capable of doing good to mankind. A pleasing prospect of action lies before me. I am willing once more, in the strength of Jesus of Nazareth, to enter the field, and hope through his blessing, I shall return to Philadelphia laden with fresh experiences of unwearied and redeeming love. Whether I shall leave New-York this week is uncertain. But wherever I am, assure yourself, dear Sir, your favours shall not be forgotten. That the great physician of souls may bless you and yours with the choicest of his mercies, is and shall be the hearty prayer of, dear Sir,

Your most obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCIII.

To ――.

New-York, June 29, 1747.

My very dear, dear Brother,

IT is with much pleasure I now sit down to answer your kind and welcome letters, dated April 11th and 13th. And to keep you no longer in suspence, I would inform you, that they have had such an effect upon me, that, God willing, I am determined to embark for England or Scotland early next Spring.—’Till Christmas I am already under indissoluble engagements, and am making a strong effort, in dependance on the great Head of the church, to get free from my outward embarrassments.—I thank my dear English friends for what they have done for me in this respect, and must beg you, my dear and faithful brother, still to do what you can further. The Lord Jesus seems to assure me that the time of my deliverance is at hand.—I hope before this year is out, to stock my new plantation in South-Carolina as a visible fund for the Orphan-house, and upon news of something more being done in England, (so that my poor heart may no more be oppressed as it has been for many years by outward difficulties,) my answer shall be, Lo! I come once more to see my dear, very dear friends on the other side of the mighty waters. ’Till then, I shall as it were count the hours, and long for them to glide away a-pace. My dear yoke-fellow now at Philadelphia is like-minded, being exceedingly desirous to see her dear friends once more. May Jesus grant it, if it be agreeable to his holy will! Indeed, I have lately thought I should never see you any more. For some weeks past, I have been exceedingly indisposed. God has been pleased to bring my body to the very brink of the grave by convulsions, gravel, a nervous cholic, and a violent fever. But as pain and afflictions abounded, consolations much more abounded, and my soul longed to take its flight to Jesus. For this week past I have not preached; but since my leaving Philadelphia, about three days ago, I seemed to have gathered strength, and hope once more, to-morrow, to proclaim amongst poor sinners the unsearchable riches of Jesus Christ. From hence I purpose to go to Boston, and return by land so as to reach Charles-Town by November.—Glad shall I be to receive an answer to this, about that time there.—For upon that in a great measure will depend my coming to you, or staying longer in these parts. Blessed be the Lord of all Lords, the door is yet open here, and I am exceedingly rejoiced to find it is kept so sweetly open at home. I can easily guess how my dear man has been tried. I find more and more that through much tribulation we must enter into glory, and by sufferings be prepared for farther usefulness here below.—O that patience may have its perfect work in our hearts. O that underneath thee may be the everlasting arms, and that by happy experience thou mayst daily prove the strength of Jesus to be thine. I intend, God willing, to write to brother J――, &c. I rejoice that brother E―― still continues in his place.—It is a token for good. You will return my most humble and dutiful respects to good Lady H—g—n, the Marquiss, and Mrs. E――n. If possible I will write to them.—I sent letters to the Marquiss, Lord L――n, and Lord R――a, about October last, but suppose they have miscarried.—I leave my affairs to you, and depend on you, under God, to transact them all.—The trouble is great, but Jesus will support and reward thee.—Near forty pounds yearly were subscribed in England to the Orphan-house, but I have not received I think above five.—I have rather more confidence in you, if possible, my very dear Man, than ever. May Jesus reward thee for all thy works of faith, and labours which have proceeded of love!—I wish you joy of your little one, and most heartily salute your dear wife, and all the lovers of the blessed Jesus every where. I wrote to you about a month ago in extreme weakness, and shall neglect no opportunity of sending to you.—I beseech you to continue to pray me over, and assure yourself none of you are forgotten by, my very dear Brother,

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER DCIV.

To the Rev. Mr. S――.

New-York, July 4, 1747.

Rev. and very dear Sir,

LAST week I left a letter for you at Philadelphia.—Since that, through the divine blessing, I have recovered a little more strength, and find my appetite restored. I have been here about eight days, and to-morrow, God willing, intend posting away to Boston, and then I shall take a long, if not a final farewel of all my northward friends. I have preached twice with great freedom. People flock rather more than ever, and the Lord vouchsafes us solemn meetings. I hope to be back again in six weeks. I shall go, if Jesus gives strength, like an arrow out of a bow. I have therefore left my dear yoke-fellow at Philadelphia, and expect to meet her again at New-York. Among these three northward provinces, I trust something considerable will be done towards paying off the orphan-house arrears. When that is effected, I care not how soon I sing my Nunc dimittis; but I must wait ’till my blessed change come. You will be pleased to remember me to all, and you may expect, God willing, at the appointed time, Reverend and very dear Sir,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCV.

To Mr. A――.

New-York, July 4, 1747.

My very dear Brother A――,

I Have just now been reading over your kind letter, dated November 23d, the second or third time.—It affected me much; and with the other letters, have constrained me to set my face towards England.—What is due in America, for the Orphan-house, I hope to discharge this year.—I am of your mind in respect to the work in England, and therefore am willing so to settle my affairs, that when I come over, I may stay with you for a long season, if the Lord Jesus is pleased to give me health and strength.—At present I am very weakly, and scarce able to preach above once or twice a week.—But if our Saviour hath further work for me to do, he can make me young and strong as an eagle.—If not, I shall go to him whom my soul loveth, and whom I long to see.—Blessed be his Name that there are yet a few names left in Sardis, that have not defiled their garments, but have kept close to his truths and cause in this declining day.――You will remember me to all most tenderly.—I pray for you continually, and whilst I am writing, it being Friday¹, comfort myself with this consideration, that many are praying for me.—You will see my letter to dear brother H――, and excuse my being so short, because I am so weak.—Our Lord continues to deal graciously with me, and was I well, I have rather a wider door than ever opened before me.—But our thoughts are not as his thoughts.—For the present, adieu.—I send most cordial love to you, yours, and all, and am, more than ever,

Yours, &c. in the blessed Jesus,

G. W.

¹ A stated weekly day of prayer, at the Tabernacle, London.

LETTER DCVI.

To Mr. J―― C――.

New-York, July 5, 1747.

My dear John,

THOUGH I am quite sick and weak in body, yet the love I owe thee for Jesu’s sake, constrains me to answer your last kind letter, dated ♦February 5th. The other mentioned therein, never came to hand. I am sorry to hear there are yet disputings amongst us about brick-walls. I was in hopes, after our contests of that kind about seven years ago, such a scene would never appear again; but I find fresh offences must come, to search out and discover to us fresh corruptions, to try our faith, teach us to cease from man, and to lean more upon him, who by his infinite wisdom and power will cause, “that out of the eater shall come forth meat, and from the strong sweetness.” I am glad you find yourself happy in the holy Jesus. I wish thee an increase of such dear-bought happiness every day, and pray that thy mouth may not be stopped, as others have been before thee, from publishing the glad tidings of salvation, by a crucified Redeemer. It has been thy meat and drink to preach among poor sinners the unsearchable riches of Jesus Christ. May’st thou continue and abide in this plan, and whether I see thee or not, whether thou dost ever think of, or write to me any more, I wish thee much success, and shall always pray that the work of the Lord may prosper in thy hands. Whether you have changed your principles with your situation, I know not. I would only caution thee against taking any thing for gospel upon the mere authority of man. Go where thou wilt, though thou shouldest be in the purest society under heaven, thou wilt find that the best of men are but men at the best, and will meet with stumbling blocks enough, to teach thee the necessity of a continual dependence on the Lord Jesus, who alone is infallible, and who will not give that glory to another. Blessed be his Name, for the trials I have met with from the friends of Zion. At present, I can rejoice in being deserted by one, and used unkind by another, who at the great day must own me to be their spiritual father. Such trials are very salutary.—They lead me to the Cross, and I trust in the end will conform me to him, who in his bitterest agony had no one to watch with him, no not for one hour. My dear man, you will excuse me, as my heart at present is affected with the thoughts of the divisions that subsist between the servants and churches of Jesus Christ. May Jesus heal them, and hasten that blessed time, when we shall all see eye to eye, and there shall be no disputings about houses, doctrine, or discipline in all God’s holy mountain! God willing, I purpose seeing England next year, and shall be glad to converse with thee once more, about the things which belong to our Saviour’s kingdom.—If my present sickness ends in death, we shall converse in a better world, and without the least discord and contention. Remember me to Brampton, and to all. I thank them for not forgetting the chief of sinners. Tell them Jesus is yet with me, and causes my rod to bud and blossom. The bush burns, but is not consumed. Adieu.

Thine in the glorious Emmanuel,

G. W.

LETTER DCVII.

To Mrs. R――.

New-Port, August 20, 1747.

Dear Madam,

I Hope that since I left you, Mr. M――’s conversation has been blessed, and that you are steadily and deliberately resolved to know nothing but Jesus Christ, and him crucified. Indeed he is the fairest among ten thousand. The more you know him, the more you will love him. O what a happy change will you experience when you enter into the world of new creatures! May Jesus hasten the time, and enable you to come as a poor, lost, undone sinner, to be clothed with his everlasting righteousness! Accept these few hasty lines. They are the language of a heart truly concerned for your eternal welfare. I salute Miss M――; may Jesus make her a wise virgin, and give you and dear Mr. R―― grace to bring her up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord! I at present add no more. As opportunity offers, you shall hear again from me. Dear Madam,

Your affectionate friend and servant for Christ sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCVIII.

To Mrs. L――.

New-port, August 20, 1747.

Dear Madam,

DOES not Jesus take his lambs into his arms, and dandle his little ones on his knees? Ought not his ministers then to follow his good example, and strive with him, not to quench the smoaking flax or break the bruised reed. This consideration causes me to write you a few lines. May they find you as in an agony to enter in at the straight gate! Courage, dear Mrs. L――, courage. Christ, heaven, glory, are worth your acceptance. They are all yours, if you will give him your heart. May Jesus make you willing, and enable you to say henceforward, “God forbid that I should glory, save in the Cross of Jesus Christ.” You will remember me to Mr. L――, and all dear friends. As opportunity offers, they and you shall hear from, dear Madam,

Your most affectionate friend and willing servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCIX.

To Mr. D――.

New-York, August 27, 1747.

Dear Mr. D――,

IS it not just, that I should pay off my old debts? consequently I must write to you. I owe you many letters, and more love. Accept this in part of payment. It brings you news of my safe arrival, through the good hand of my God upon me, at New-York. We were detained upon the water three or four days. I believe it was for good; for the Lord blessed it to the recovery of my health, so that I eat like a sailor. At present I find my nature recruited considerably, and met my dear yoke-fellow and friends well at this place. O that my heart glowed with thanks to the Lord of all Lords, whose mercy endureth for ever! Help me, my dear Sir, to be thankful. My obligations to my glorious Jesus are increased by my late excursion to Charles-Town, Portsmouth, Boston, and other places in New-England. If I forget her, let my right-hand forget her cunning. I think of, and pray for you and yours, and all my dear friends daily. O let us so live, that we may meet in heaven. You know the way; “Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.” Walk before him, look continually to him, and you shall be enabled to trample upon sin, death, and hell. Excuse the brevity of this. Next time, God willing, you shall have a longer letter. My tender love awaits your dear spouse and family. You will remember me to all enquiring friends, and as God enables, you shall all be remembered by, dear Mr. D――,

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER DCX.

To Mr. A――.

New-York, Aug. 27, 1747.

TO convince you that I remember your desire when at Boston, I send you almost my first letter. It comes full of thanks for all past favours. May the God whom I serve, reward you ten thousand fold! He will, he has promised, he also will do it. Will you give me leave to ask one favour more? You may guess what it is. I beseech you to entreat the giver of every good and perfect gift to grant me an humble and a thankful heart; for indeed, mercies are renewed to me every moment. God has given me a pleasant journey, and brought me this day to New-York in safety. My health is considerably restored, and I know not why my dear friends yet cruelly hinder me. Well, God’s will be done! O that it may be to the Redeemer’s glory, and the good of precious and immortal souls! I am of the same mind as when at Boston,—resolved to preach and work for Jesus, ’till I can preach and work no more. I doubt not, but in your sphere, you are like-minded. May the Lord strengthen, stablish, settle you in it, and give you to abound in every good word and work. Christ is a good Master: he is worthy of all our time, and of every thing that we possess. Is not one heart too little for him? And yet he requires no more. Amazing love! I am lost when I think of it. I can only say, Lord, I adore and worship! But how does dear Mrs. A――? Bid her, not be faithless, but believing. Jesus shall do more for her than she can ask or think. I salute you both most heartily, as does my dear yoke-fellow.—That Jesus may plentifully reward you for all favours, and give you so to live here, that you may sit at his right-hand eternally hereafter, is the hearty prayer of, dear Mr. A――,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCXI.

To Mr. W――, at Portsmouth.

New-York, Aug. 27, 1747.

Very dear Sir,

IS it right when we have committed a fault, to persist in, and not confess and amend it? By no means. I must therefore write to you, whom (though you have received no letter from me) I dearly love in the bowels of the ever-loving, ever-lovely Jesus. I thank you, dear Sir, for all favours, and exhort you, as the best return I can make, to walk worthy of that God, who has called you to his kingdom and his glory. May you be enabled to live above, and overcome the world! O that Jesus may be at all times, your only All! O that you may look up continually to him for light, life, and every thing! Then will he direct your steps, and cause every change and scene of life to be a means of changing and transforming your dear soul more and more into his own divine likeness. You are shortly to enter into a new and untried state. Dear Sir, call Jesus and his Disciples to your marriage; marry in and for the Lord, or your life will be exceedingly uneasy and miserable. Remember, that new states call for new strength. Let your eyes then be fixed on Jesus. From him every good and perfect gift cometh. He alone can teach you to use the world, and every worldly enjoyment, so as not to abuse it. I commend you to his tender mercy. I pray continually for you, and humbly intreat you to remember unworthy, ungrateful, ill and hell-deserving me. I can now only most heartily thank you for all favours, beg to be remembered to all friends, and subscribe myself, dear Sir,

Yours in Him that liveth for ever,

G. W.

LETTER DCXII.

To the Rev. Mr. G. T――.

New-York, Aug. 29, 1747.

Rev. and very dear Sir,

NOT want of love, but of leisure, has prevented my writing to you for some time past. Blessed be God, I can now send you good news from the Northward. My reception at Boston, and elsewhere in New-England, was like unto the first. Arrows of conviction fled and stuck fast. Many, I hear, were wounded. Congregations were rather larger than ever, and opposers mouths were stopped. Will you now take another trip? I believe it would be blest to the good of your own and many other souls. I would be more particular, did I not expect to see you next week. I am better in health than when I left New-York. God gives me grace to spend it to the utmost in the Redeemer’s service. I am determined in his strength, to die fighting, though it be upon my stumps. I trust you pray for me. I remember you and your flock. I salute all tenderly, and am, Rev. and very dear Sir,

Your most affectionate younger brother and servant in Jesus Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DCXIII.

To Mr. Henry S――, Junior.

New-York, Aug. 29, 1747.

My dear Mr. S――,

LAST Thursday noon the keeper of Israel, who neither slumbereth or sleepeth, brought me hither in safety. We were detained three days on the water. It was over-ruled for good. I recovered my appetite, and am now much better than when I left New-England. Next Tuesday, God willing, I shall set forward, and hope to be at Charles-Town the beginning of November. Will you write to me? God willing, you shall hear from me every opportunity. I have good news from Providence, my plantation in South-Carolina, and from Bethesda: both families are well, and several negroes are under conviction. I hope those that were under concern at Portsmouth, find their convictions to abide. I pray God, they may have no rest, ’till they find rest in Jesus Christ! I salute them, and all the Redeemer’s true followers. I join with my dear yoke-fellow, in sending you, and dear Mrs. S――, ten thousand thanks for all favours, and am, very dear Sir,

Your most affectionate, obliged friend and brother, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCXIV.

To Mr. D――.

New-York, Aug. 30, 1747.

MY dear brother Daniel, thou man greatly beloved, why weepest thou? Why art thou so cast down? All is forgiven, all is forgotten long ago; be strong, and God shall establish thy heart. Look up, and put thy trust in the Lord. He is a merciful Redeemer; otherwise what could worthless, ungrateful, unfruitful, ill, hell-deserving I do? O how great is his love to us-ward! How kindly hath he brought me to New-York! Pray let your mourning be turned into praise, and give thanks to the Lord of all lords in behalf of your unworthy friend. You are my old friend. I have loved thee, and do love thee with a peculiar love. May the Lord increase thee more and more, even thee and thy children! I send you and yours most cordial salutations. We set out, God willing, to-morrow on our southern journey. I have good news from the Orphan-house, and my new Plantation. Some negroes are brought under conviction. Mr. B―― was well the latter end of July. I shall take care of his father’s letter. My dear yoke-fellow intends writing to you soon. In the mean while accept hearty love from, yours as usual,

G. W.

LETTER DCXV.

To Mrs. S――, at New-York.

Philadelphia, Sept. 6, 1747.

SHALL I promise and not perform? God forbid. I must then drop a line to my afflicted friend. How is your little one? Is it yet languishing? Is it quite emaciated and panting for breath? Or is it gone into the world of spirits? Whatever be your answer, I am ready to reply, Remember your father Abraham; how chearfully did he offer up his dear Isaac, his son, whom he loved? How kindly did the Lord take it at his hands? Go thou and do likewise. If Jesus hath restored it to you, nurse it for him; pray to him continually for grace to order it aright, and learn how soon God may imbitter the dearest comforts to us. Happy, happy they, who can lean on and trust in Jesus, whilst they are going through this howling wilderness, this world of woe. I trust you are one of these happy ones. O free grace! Sovereign, electing, distinguishing love! You will join with me in saying, “Why me, Lord, why me?” I could enlarge. Whilst I am writing, the fire kindles; but my Master’s business calls me away. He is with me here. Remember the Pilgrims. My dear yoke-fellow is gone forward; perhaps I may follow this week. I desire to be remembered in the kindest manner to dear Mr. S―― P――, wife, and all friends. I thank them and you a thousand times for all favours, and am, dear Mrs. S――,

Your affectionate and willing servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCXVI.

To Captain S――.

Philadelphia, Sept. 9, 1747.

My very dear Mr. S――,

THOUGH I wrote to you lately by my friend Mr. V――, yet the receipt of your kind letter makes me to write again. The deadly blow I see is given. Well! Thanks be to God, you are so resigned. You doubtless remember, that you took one another only “’till death you should part.” That shocking clause, as Mr. B―― calls it, is very instructive. Blessed be God, that she gave you any comfortable evidences of her being for ever with the Lord. If so, do not wish her here again, but remember how soon your own great change must necessarily come. You are now on the decline of life. You have seen that all below is vanity. O that you may bring forth much fruit in old age! Take heed, watch and be sober, since you know not at what hour the blessed bridegroom may come to call you. I write thus freely to you; because you are pleased to stile me your father. Pray for me then, that I may give to Jesus all the glory, and study to glorify him more and more. Next Monday, God willing, I intend leaving this place. Be pleased to acquaint our dear friend Mr. V―― that I intend writing to him soon. I hope he reached home in safety. I salute him, Mr. P――, and all friends most heartily. Accept of the same yourself, in the most cordial manner, from, very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER DCXVII.

To Mr. W――.

Philadelphia, Sept. 9, 1747.

Very dear Sir,

LAST night I heard of Dr. Coleman’s sudden death. I bless God for granting him such an easy passage. Soon after the news reached me, I bowed my knee before the God and Father of our Lord Jesus in behalf of your bereaved (and I could almost say desolate) church. O may the Lord of all lords direct you in the choice of another, who may rule and feed you diligently with all his power. I shall be glad to hear what the great head of the church does for you. You may direct to me at Charles-Town. God willing, I set forward on my journey Monday next. Our glorious Emmanuel has been pleased to open my mouth, and enlarge my heart in preaching the unsearchable riches of his grace,—I hope my dear Boston friends are warm and lively. I salute all most heartily. Pray remember the poor pilgrims; and if you write to Scotland or South-Carolina, let them know how affairs go. My dear yoke-fellow is gone to Bohemia, otherwise she would write. I intend writing to dear Mr. S―― by next post. In the mean while, I beg leave to subscribe myself, very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DCXVIII.

To Mr. and Mrs. F――.

Philadelphia, Sept. 9, 1747.

My very dear, dear Friends,

THOUGH I hope to see you ere this reaches Charles-town, yet I cannot but embrace every opportunity that offers to let you know how we do. I have lately been eleven hundred miles journey northward, and have found the Redeemer’s strength magnified in my great weakness. The word ran and was glorified. I am now posting towards, and hope to reach you the beginning of November next. I am better in health than usual, and through grace am determined to die fighting the Redeemer’s battles. On Long Island I saw Mr. B――. He still loves his Charles-Town friend. If you are not provided, it is my opinion, that it is best for you, for him, and the church of Christ, that he should be at Charles-Town. But this is only my opinion. With this, you will receive a packet of letters from him. If it be not done before you receive this, I wish you would be pleased to send my bureau, with my other things that were packed up, to Providence. I would not willingly have it to do when I come to Charles-Town. I hear you have had a dry season, I trust it has not been so in spirituals. O that Jesus may water you every moment! I think you may plead this promise before a prayer-hearing God; “He that watereth, shall be water’d again.” Surely the bowels of the saints have been, and are daily refreshed through your means. Happy ye that are determined to make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness. When natural lives fail, you shall be received into everlasting habitations. O happy time, when we shall be, soul and body, for ever with the Lord! I have lived in hopes some time, that my departure was at hand; but I seem to be gathering strength again, and trust shall be made instrumental in calling some more souls to the precious Jesus. O that I may be humble and thankful! Dear friends, pray for us.—My dear wife is gone to Bohemia, otherwise she would write. We have written by every ship. Some of our letters, I believe, have been taken. Our tender love to all. I am,

Ever yours, whilst

G. W.

LETTER DCXIX.

To the Rev. Mr. H――.

Philadelphia, Sept. 9, 1747.

My very dear Mr. H――,

I Thank our gracious God for all the good news contained in your kind letter. It ♦gladdened my heart, and gave me reason to hope, that the Indian land would be a christian land indeed. When I received your letter, I was just returned from an eleven hundred miles journey northward, in which the rock of ages was pleased to let much of his glory pass before his dear people. I was enabled to preach about 30 times in New-England, and am now coming forward towards you, and hope to see you in November. My dear yoke-fellow would answer Mrs. H――, but she is gone to Bohemia. Accept thanks and love in her name. I have been frequently at the gates of death within these few months, and thought to have reached my desired port; but it seems I must put out to sea again. My heavenly Father’s will be done. I have good news from England. I have some thoughts of seeing it next year. Jesus will direct me. Captain Grant is sailed from Jamaica. Ere long I hope to owe no man any thing but love. Something considerable hath been done since I left Charles-Town. The Lord will never fail those that put their trust in him. I have remembered the book with the hymn tunes. I hope we shall not differ about an earthly matter. We are brethren; let us dwell in unity, and the God of love and peace will dwell amongst us. O that his divine love may be shed abroad abundantly in our hearts by the Holy Ghost! How shall we then bear with, and forbear one another? I hope all around you are well, and watered with spiritual as well as natural rain. I salute all most tenderly; and hoping to see you shortly, I subscribe myself, very dear Mr. H――,

Yours most affectionately in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER DCXX.

To the Rev. Mr. T――.

Philadelphia, Sept. 10, 1747.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

I Suppose, ere this comes to hand, you will have heard how near I have been to my wished-for harbour, and how I have been obliged to put out to sea again. Blessed be God, since I must live, he does not permit me altogether to live in vain. The word ran and was glorified much in New-England. The gathering of the people, and the power that attended the word seemed to be near the same as when the work begun seven years ago. I parted from my friends with great reluctance. Since my coming southward, I have seen and dined with Governor B――. He ♦still retains his former affection, and I hope will be a great blessing to these parts. I have lately heard of the death of Doctor Coleman. I pity his poor congregation, fearing it will much dwindle. There are now many destitute flocks in New-England. Mr. B――’s death hath taught me a good lesson. May the Lord Jesus keep me from trimming! something considerable hath been done since I saw you, towards easing me of my Orphan-house embarrassments. The particulars expect in November: then I hope to see you once more. I still intend, God willing, to see Bermudas. Blessed be God, I have good news from Bethesda and Providence. I am helped here, as I was at New-York, in preaching; but find little conviction-work going on. As you observe, “that is God’s work.” I hope you have been carried comfortably through the Summer’s heat, and that we shall have a warm Winter when we meet at Charles-Town. Your father’s child is dead. I have a letter for you from him. I salute you and all for my dear yoke-fellow, who is gone forward to Bohemia. I follow on Monday next. You will remember me in the kindest manner to all. I have written to many friends, but believe the vessels have been taken in which the letters were sent. I have now just time to beg the continuance of your prayers, and subscribe myself, Rev. and very dear Sir,

Yours as usual,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXI.

To Mr. H―― H――.

Philadelphia, Sept. 11, 1747.

My very dear Brother,

I Wrote to you within these few months from this place, Boston and New-York. My last letters were to inform you, that, God willing, some time next year I purpose to see England, if my outward affairs can be settled. Surely the Lord will deliver me from money matters by and by.—He will, he will.—Lord, I believe, help my unbelief! I have good news from Georgia, and from my new plantation in South-Carolina. Many negroes are brought under conviction. We saw great things in New-England. The flocking and power that attended the word, was like unto that seven years ago. Weak as I was, and have been, I was enabled to travel eleven hundred miles and preach daily. I am now once more going to Georgia to settle all my affairs, and shall get ready to embark as soon as I receive letters from you. My dear yoke-fellow is gone forwards. She exceedingly longs to see her old friends. But death may intervene. I have been daily waiting for it. Few have expected my life, but at present I seem to be getting strength. By the grace of God, it shall all be employed in the dear Redeemer’s service. I find no inclination to settle. My Heart (O free grace!) is yet springing for God, and I am determined to die fighting. I hope matters go on well with you. Indeed I remember you daily, and pray that you all may be filled with all the fulness of God. I am here travelling through a wilderness; but I trust leaning on my beloved. Jesus is my rock, my stay, my God, and my all. Various are the scenes I pass through; various are the comforts and supports I meet with. Sometimes the Lord feeds me as it were by the ravens, and teaches me daily that man’s extremity is his opportunity to help and succour. O, my dear brother, if ever we meet in this world, how much have we to say to one another, concerning the loving-kindnesses of the Lord? But when we meet in heaven.—I am lost at the thought—What!

Make slaves the partners of thy throne,

Decked with a never-fading crown?

O Jesus! thy love is indeed immense, unsearchable.—Shed it abroad in the dear man’s heart to whom I am writing, and the hearts of all with whom he is concerned, and the hearts of all thy dear children. Even so, Lord Jesus. Amen! I can no more. My heart is almost too full to subscribe myself

Ever yours,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXII.

To the Rev. Mr. J. W――.

Philadelphia, Sept. 11, 1747.

Dear and Rev. Sir,

NOT long ago I received your kind letter, dated in February last. Your others I believe came to hand, and I hope ere now you have received my answer. My heart is really for an outward, as well as an inward union. Nothing shall be wanting on my part to bring it about; but I cannot see how it can possibly be effected, ’till we all think and speak the same things. I rejoice to hear, that you and your brother are more moderate with respect to sinless perfection. Time and experience I believe will convince you, that attaining such a state in this life, is not a doctrine of the everlasting gospel. As for universal redemption, if we omit on each side the talking for or against reprobation, which we may do fairly, and agree as we already do in giving an universal offer to all poor sinners that will come and taste of the water of life, I think we may manage very well. But it is difficult to determine such matters at a distance. Some time next year, (if the Redeemer spares my life) I hope to see you face to face. In the mean while, the language of my heart is,

O let us find the ancient way,

Our wond’ring foes to move;

And force the heathen world to say,

See how these brethren love.

I rejoice to find that the rebellion has been over-ruled for the awakening of many souls. Our Lord generally builds his temple in troublesome times. I cannot, upon the maturest deliberation, charge myself with a design to flatter in my sermon on that occasion. You know my attachment to the present establishment. Out of the fulness of my heart my pen wrote. But it may be I know not myself. Lord, keep me from trimming! At present, my heart seems as free for Jesus as ever. I have been once more in New-England. My entrance was as at the first, about seven years ago. Perhaps I may embark from thence for my native country. Our Lord will direct. I am now going to Georgia to winter. At New-York and here, Jesus has enlarged my heart, and opened my mouth to shew forth his praise. I have news of the awakening of several negroes at my new plantation, lately purchased at South-Carolina. I hope ere long to be delivered from my outward embarrassments. I long to owe no man any thing but love. This is a debt, Reverend Sir, I shall never be able to discharge to you, or your brother. Jesus will pay you all. For his sake, I love and honour you very much, and rejoice as much, in your success as in my own. I cannot agree with you in some principles, but that need not hinder love; since I trust we hold the foundation, even “Jesus, the same yesterday, to-day and for ever.” Will you salute, in the kindest manner, all the followers of the Lamb within your sphere of action? Grace, mercy and peace be multiplied upon all their dear souls! I thank them for remembering a poor pilgrim, who though faint is still pursuing, and determined, in the strength of Jesus, to spend and be spent more and more for the good of poor sinners. Perhaps before I see you, I may visit Bermudas and Cape-Breton. You will pray that the Lord may order my steps aright. What have you done with the Moravian Brethren? their affairs are in confusion here. I think their foundation is too narrow for their superstructure. I believe in their plan there are many plants that our heavenly Father hath not planted. The Lord bless what is right, and rectify what is wrong in them, in us, and in all. Even so, Lord Jesus, Amen!—O for heaven! where we shall mistake, judge, and grieve one another no more. Lately I thought myself sailing several times into the blessed harbour; but it seems I must put out to sea again. My Redeemer’s will be done! Forgive, Reverend Sir, the prolixity of this. Love indites. I salute you for my dear fellow pilgrim; who is gone forwards.—Continue to pray for us, and assure yourself, that you are always remembered by, Reverend and very dear Sir,

Your most affectionate, though unworthy younger brother and willing servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXIII.

To the Rev. Mr. C―― W――.

Philadelphia, Sept. 11, 1747.

Very dear Sir,

BOTH your letters and your prayers I trust have reached me. May mine reach you also, and then it will not be long ere we shall indeed be one fold under one Shepherd. However, if this should not be on earth, it will certainly be effected in heaven. Thither I trust we are hastening apace. Blessed be God that you are kept alive, and that your spiritual children are increasing. May they increase more and more! Jesus can maintain them all. He wills that his house should be full. Some have wrote me things to your disadvantage. I do not believe them. Love thinks no evil of a friend. Such are you to me. I love you most dearly. I could write to you much more, but time and business will not permit. You will see my letter to your dear brother. That you may be guided into all truth, turn thousands and ten thousands more unto righteousness, and shine as the stars in the future world, for ever and ever, is the hearty prayer of, very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCXXIV.

To the Rev. Mr. M――.

Bohemia, (Maryland) Sept. 17, 1747.

Honoured Sir,

WILL you permit a young soldier of Jesus Christ to write to an experienced veteran, before he goes hence, and is no more seen? Sorry am I that my visit to York was short, yet glad that our Lord gave me to see you once more ready to sing your Nunc dimittis with steadiness and composure, if not with joy unspeakable, even a joy that is full of glory.—Happy, thrice happy, Reverend Sir! You have gone through that wilderness, which if hoary hairs should be my lot, awaits me your younger son and servant. Well! this is my comfort: I have the same Beloved to lean on, as you have had. The way, though narrow, is not long; the gate, though strait, opens into life eternal. O that I might pass through it when young; but, Father, not my will, but thine be done! Honoured Sir, be pleased to pray for me. I remember you and your dear flock, whom I love in the bowels of Jesus Christ. May he who kissed away the soul of his beloved Moses, appoint a Joshua to succeed you, when he bids you come up to the mount and die! I hope my cordial respects will find acceptance with your dear yoke-fellow. I remember what she said to me, and once more beg a continued interest in your prayers. I beg leave to subscribe myself, honoured Sir,

Your most affectionate tho’ unworthy younger son and willing servant in him that liveth for ever,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXV.

To the Rev. Mr. M―― Jun.

Bohemia, Sept. 17, 1747.

I Have been writing to the father,—Love, love unfeigned constrains me to write to the son also. I hope it will influence you to send me, however unworthy, a line or two in return. Reverend and dear Sir, how do you? Are you yet God’s mouth to the people? Surely if the prayers of faith keep me alive, the prayers of faith must open your mouth, and constrain you in preaching to shew forth your glorious Redeemer’s praise. All things are possible with God.

Blest is faith, that trusts his power;

Blest are saints, that wait his hour;

Haste, great Conqueror, bring it near,

Let the wish’d-for thing appear.

But you do not like that I should write about yourself? Will you then permit me to tell you, that in spite of all my corruptions, Jesus still continues to bless unworthy me. He gave me a prosperous journey to New-York, and there, as well as at Philadelphia, he opened my mouth to shew forth his praise. My outward circumstances are made easier, and I trust, in a short time I shall owe no man any thing but love. I am now posting southward, willing to follow the cloud wheresoever it shall point in the spring. O pray, pray that Jesus may be my comforter and my guide. Great are my trials, but greater my consolations. O free, rich, and sovereign grace! Help me, dear Sir, to extol and praise it. You will remember me to all. Your ¹fidus achates, and your dear faithful nurse, I shall never forget. When you go to Kittery, pray make my most dutiful respects acceptable to Sir William and his consort. Wishing you, what Colonel Gardiner once wished me, “A thriving soul in a healthful body,” I subscribe myself, Reverend and very dear Sir,

Yours in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

¹ Bosom friend.

LETTER DCXXVI.

To Mr. J―― S――.

Bath-Town, North Carolina, Oct. 6, 1747.

Very dear Sir,

I Wrote you a few lines just as I was leaving Bohemia. They informed you of the receipt of my bills, and by them I also desired you to pay the remainder of what you have of mine into the hands of Mr. D―― V―― of New-York. Since that, I have posted forward here, and hope to see some souls in this province all in love with Jesus, and made partakers of the power of his Resurrection. I have preached three times, and purpose, God willing, to preach many times more. The Lord seems to have given me the affections of the people, and I am determined in his strength to see what can be done amongst them. The box of books sent hither from Mr. K―― and G―― never came to hand. Be pleased to make some enquiry about it. I preached once in Virginia, and would have preached oftner; but the small-pox was spreading, the assembly did not sit, and I wanted to let North-Carolina have as much time as I could. I hope to write to you again from Charles-Town. There, I shall be glad to hear that the all-wise head of the church hath directed you to a suitable pastor in the room of Dr. Coleman. I sometimes think all will go to heaven before me. I am weak and faint, I long to be dissolved and to be with Jesus, but cannot die. My heavenly Father’s will be done! I would have you still pray for me, as a dying man; but O pray that I may not go off as a snuff. I would fain die blazing, not with human glory, but the love of Jesus. I wish you, and yours, and all dear friends, as much of this as your hearts can hold. I remember you daily and hourly. I will thank you in heaven for what you have done for me on earth, and till then shall subscribe myself, dear Sir,

Yours in the best bonds,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXVII.

To Mrs. S――.

Bath-Town, North-Carolina, Oct. 6, 1747.

Dear Madam,

BE pleased to accept this, as a token that you are not forgotten by me;—no, I loved your deceased husband, I honour and pray for his dear and sorrowful relict. I would give you that advice, dear Madam, which I believe he would do, was he to rise from his grave, “Make sure of a Christ, and give the Lord no rest, till you can say, my maker is my husband, the Lord of Hosts is his name.” What have you now to do, Madam, but to make sure of a Christ? You are desolate, why should you not put your trust in the Lord? Widows, godly ministers widows, are God’s peculiar care. O that you may have reason to say, “It is good for me that I have been afflicted.” Now is your time to learn God’s law. Come to Jesus, Madam, close with him, and give him your whole heart. I need not tell you, that he will make you happy. He has made me so, even me the chief of sinners. As such be pleased to pray for, dear Madam,

Your real, affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXVIII.

To Mrs. A――.

Bath-Town, North-Carolina, Oct. 6, 1747.

Dear Madam,

BE where I will, the Lord Jesus puts you upon my heart. I often think you happy, because you are so circumstanced that you must necessarily drink of the waters of life at the fountain head. It drinks sweetest from thence. Communion with God’s children is sweet; but communion with God himself is infinitely sweeter. The woman of Samaria found it so. When the disciples came and interrupted her fellowship with their master, she left her water pot and went her way. Blessed be God, that happy time is coming when we shall enjoy both him and his without interruption. Till then, dear Madam, be content to have little or much of the company of Christ’s people, as your heavenly father shall judge most convenient. Heaven is before you, time is flying on eagles wings. Eternity, an happy eternity awaits you when time shall be no more. O that it would approach faster to me! But why so hasty, O my soul! In heaven thou canst not deny thyself for Jesus Christ! Dear Madam, pray for me, that my will may be swallowed up in the will of God. That it may be so with you, is the hearty prayer of, dear Madam,

Your most affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXIX.

To Mr. P――.

Bath-Town, North-Carolina, Oct. 6, 1747.

Dear Mr. P――,

OUR affectionate parting is not yet out of my remembrance. Since that, I hope you have been diligent, and ere now have got an evidence that we shall not be parted hereafter. O for assurance! It is indeed the anchor of the soul. It keeps it steady in the midst of storms. Dear Sir, press after it, as you value your present as well as eternal welfare. Tell the Lord Jesus, you cannot do without it. I once thought dear Mr. P―― would be one of the first-rate christians in New-England. What hath hindered you? Whatever it be, whether a right hand or a right eye, may the Lord Jesus take it away! Will you say Amen heartily? You will excuse this freedom. I always write so to those I love. Pray remember me to your mother, wife, and all friends. Tell them I am here, hunting after sinners in North-Carolina woods. It is pleasant work, though my body is weak and crazy. After a short fermentation in the grave, it will be fashioned like unto Christ’s glorious body. The thought of this rejoices my soul, and makes me long to leap my seventy years. O pray for me, that I may have patience to tarry the Lord’s leisure. I commit you to his care. I charge you in his great name, not to let me miss you in heaven, and with much love subscribe myself, dear Mr. P――,

Your very affectionate friend, and willing servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXX.

To Mr. S――.

Oct. 6, 1747.

My dear Mr. S――,

LET who will be omitted when I am writing to New-England, I think, I am under many obligations not to forget you. Blessed be God for making you a christian merchant, and teaching you the holy art of trafficking for the Lord. You trade upon a safe bottom. Your all is insured, and you shall receive your own with good usury at the great day. Go on, my dear man, spend and be spent for Christ’s people; it is a glorious employ. I would not but be thus engaged for millions of worlds. It is true, I am decaying daily; but resolved in the strength of Jesus to die fighting. At present I am engaged in North-Carolina, and hope ere long to send you good news from this ungospelized wilderness. In about a month I expect to see Charles-Town. The Lord direct me where to go in the Spring. Several ways present. I am willing to see more of the north before I return to my native country. But alas! why write I thus? How many important hours will intervene? O that every minute may be employed for God, even a God in Christ. Indeed he is a good master. He wounds, but he heals also. He brings down, but raises up again. He humbles, but it is only in order to exalt his dear children. This you and I shall find, as we have found already, times without number, perfectly true, by happy experience. But I cannot enlarge. You will deliver the enclosed. I hope my last to the dear Messrs. M――’s came safe. I will write to more as business, opportunity, and health permit. In the mean while, accept our joint most cordial love to all dear, very dear friends. Accept the same to you and yours. I am, dear Sir,

Yours eternally in the everlasting I AM,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXXI.

To Mr. R――.

Bath-Town, North-Carolina, Oct. 7, 1747.

Very dear Sir,

BY this time (such is your love to unworthy me,) I suppose you are willing to know where I am, and what I am doing. Blessed be God, I am still employed in my old delightful work, “calling poor sinners to repentance.”—I trust a day of power will shortly come to North-Carolina. I have preached three times already, and am now going a small circuit round about. I expect to reach Charles-Town in a month’s time. But give me leave in my turn to enquire, how it is with you and yours? Are your resolutions more and more invigorated, and hath Jesus at length taken possession of your whole heart? I must not let you alone, till you can fairly and truly say, “’Tis done, ’tis done.” O what a revenue of glory might a person in your station bring to Christ, and what a radiant crown of grace might you secure to your own soul, was you but once in earnest to lay up treasure in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, nor thieves break through and steal! Rise, rise, dear Sir, awake and sleep no more. Jesus waits to give you light. May he so fill you with his light and love, that you may rejoice in his great salvation all the day long! Pray let me hear from you in the Winter. I am more concerned for you than ever. Your late favours have increased my obligations to be so. I shall be glad to hear that the Lord hath given you a son. I remember dear Madam R――, and hope to drop her a few lines. May the glorious Emmanuel make little Miss a wise virgin. My love awaits Mrs. H――, and your whole houshold. You will remember me in the kindest manner to Mrs. G――, L――, &c. and the whole circle of my female friends. Praying that grace, mercy and peace may be multiplied upon all, subscribe myself, dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXXII.

To the Reverend Mr. L――.

Bath-Town, North-Carolina, Oct. 11, 1747.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

IT has given me much concern, that I could not comply with your kind invitation to Plymouth, but providence plainly pointed my course another way. God only knows what a cross it was to me, to leave dear New-England so soon. I hope death will not be so bitter to me, as was parting from my friends. Glad shall I be to be prayed thither again, before I see my native land. But future things belong to God. I would be just where he would have me, though it be in the uttermost parts of the earth. At present I am hunting after poor lost sinners in these ungospelized wilds. People are willing to hear, and blessed be the Lord of all lords, I am willing to preach. My body is yet weak. A little riding fatigues me; but he that has been, is, and I trust will be my strength, my support, and my guide even unto death. Dear Sir, continue to pray for me. I wish you much of the divine presence, and hope the Lord will yet make you a spiritual father to thousands. Be pleased to remember me in the kindest manner to dear Mr. F――, and the whole circle of those reverend brethren, who dare confess Christ’s work, and Christ’s truths. I salute your whole large fire side, and am, reverend and dear Sir,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCXXXIII.

To Mr. P――.

Bath-Town, Oct. 11, 1747.

Very dear Mr. P――,

I Am ashamed to think that your short though exceeding sweet and kind letter, lies as yet unanswered. Want of health and of time, (assure yourself) not want of love, has been the cause of it. The searcher of hearts alone knows, what a cordial reverential respect I bear your honoured father and mother, yourself, and dear sister. I must not write much on this head, lest my eyes should gush out with water. Sorry am I, very sorry, dear Sir, that the church is not to have the benefit of your labours. But what shall we say? God is a sovereign God. He must do what he will with his own. This comforts me, that I trust you have learned to be in the world, and yet not of it. Well then, since it must be so, go, dear Sir, and trade for God. Let merchants see by your example, that Jesus Christ can make many saints in a store. O may you daily taste, and feel the efficacy of his all-atoning, heart-cleansing, world-conquering, precious blood! I trust this is dearer and weightier to me than ever. I am now proclaiming it in these uncultivated ungospelized desarts. People hear with great attention, and I trust ere long news will be heard in heaven, that some North-Carolina sinners are born of God. I stayed but a small time in Virginia and Maryland, that I might give this province the more time. I hope to be in Charles-Town in about a month, and soon after my arrival, expect to determine what course to take in the spring. Several ways present themselves. May Jesus direct me which to take! Weak as I am, I am willing to spend and be spent for that ever-lovely, ever-loving Jesus, who has done so much for, and borne so long with me. I am afraid some of you have prayed me back into the world again. Well, it cannot be long ere I get my dismission. O for a triumphant exit. Lord Jesus keep me from going off like a snuff! But it is time to bid you good night. I have been on a forty mile excursion, and this tabernacle of mine is weak. You will remember me to all your dear family, and all friends. I will name none, that if possible I may offend none. However, this I must say, New-England friends are dearer to me than ever, and glad shall I be, if another sight of them before I die, be permitted to, very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXXIV.

To Mr. D――.

Everards-Ferry, Oct. 16, 1747.

Dear Mr. D――,

THE love I owe you for Jesus Christ’s sake, induces me to send you a few lines. I hope they will find you yet more and more convinced of self-righteousness, and the absolute necessity of being cloathed with the all-sufficient, compleat and everlasting righteousness of Jesus Christ. This, and this only is the ground of our acceptance with a holy, just, and sin-avenging God. Here the sinner may find a sure asylum, an everlasting, never-failing refuge. Happy they! who begin to see, feel, and taste this, in a realizing spiritual manner. It is the budding of grace, the beginning of the kingdom of God in the soul. May I hope that dear Mr. D―― is one of these happy men. I trust so. You seemed beginning to awake out of nature’s dream when I left you. O that nothing may prevail on you to lie down to sleep again! It is dangerous to trifle with the spirit of God. When he puts into our hearts good desires, he expects that we shall be workers together with him. Strive therefore, on, as the word imports, agonize with God, yourself, and the world, in order that you may enter into the strait gate of a thorough sound conversion. You know who has told you “that the kingdom of God suffereth violence, and the violent only take it by force.” And surely heaven is worth striving for; especially since we are sure of a conquest; and Jesus Christ, the captain of our salvation, stands ready to assist, support, and strengthen at every rencounter. Learn therefore to endure hardness, like a good soldier of Jesus Christ: adopt Joshua’s resolution, stand the laugh, quit yourself like a man, put your hand to the plough, and do not look back; fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life. I could write more, but I want time and paper. Blessed be God, I am as well as a pilgrim in my way can expect to be. I am happy in Christ, and that is all in all. I wish you and yours this happiness. I pray you may be partakers of it. This is the best return I can make for all kindnesses shewn to, dear Sir,

Your affectionate, obliged friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXXV.

To Mrs. D――.

Everards-Ferry, Oct. 16, 1747.

Dear Mrs. D――,

AS it is uncertain whether I shall ever see you again in this vale of tears, I cannot help expressing my gratitude for kindnesses received, by sending you a few lines.—And what shall I say? Why, that I trust you at length see, that what the world calls an innocent, harmless, decent, sober life, will not be sufficient to carry us to heaven. Such a life I suppose you have led, and assure yourself, you will find it an hard work to give up such a life in point of dependence, and to come as a poor, ill and hell deserving wretch, to be washed in the blood and cloathed with the righteousness of Jesus Christ. Nature will struggle, and a reasoning infidelity will stand at the door of your heart, lest Jesus Christ’s spirit should enter in and make you happy. But all things are possible with God. Apply to him therefore, dear Madam, and beg him to let you see that your heart is desperately wicked, and deceitful above all things. Strengthen your husband’s hands; be as a goad in his side, if you see him inclined (though I trust you will not) to forget what he hath lately felt and been convinced of. And O that you may be an happy instrument of converting your two daughters! It is sweet when all of one house are agreed to worship the Lord Jesus in spirit and in truth. That you and yours may be all such worshippers, is the earnest prayer of, dear Madam,

Your real friend, and willing servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXXVI.

To Mr. T―― A――.

Wilmington, Cape-Fear, Oct. 18, 1747.

My very dear brother A――,

I Have lately written to you and many other dear English friends. I am now in my way to Georgia, and hope to see my native country some time next year. My sphere of action still increases, and though I hoped this last Summer to have taken my flight to the blessed Jesus, yet it seems I am to live longer. O that it may be for the Redeemer’s glory, and the good of many precious and immortal souls! I know you will say Amen! I could write much, but am fatigued, having preached several times, and rode on horse-back through the woods an hundred and sixty miles. Jesus makes the barren wilderness to smile. I want to know how affairs go on among you. I expect letters from some of you at Charles-Town, and I hope to see you, I repeat it again, some time next year. But future things belong to God. My schemes are so frequently disconcerted, that I would willingly put a blank into his hands, to be filled up just as he pleases. But this stubborn will would fain avoid swallowing some wholesome bitter-sweets, which the all-gracious physician reaches out unto me. Nevertheless, through grace, the prevailing language of my heart is, “Not my will, but thine be done.” The being so long absent from my friends, sometimes a little affects me; but I have been used to so many partings, and heart-breakings from various quarters, that I wonder any thing affects, so as to surprize me. But the mystery of the cross is unsearchable. We shall never fully learn it till we die. We must be beginners in this school every day, hour, and moment. But where am I going? I write as though I was conversing with you. Perhaps such a time may come. In heaven I am sure such a time will have existence. The language of my heart is, Lord Jesus, let thy kingdom come! You will remember me to all. I must now say no more. Whilst I am writing, affection works and almost makes me to say, O that I had wings like a dove, for then would I fly away, and see my English and Scotch friends! I salute all most heartily, as does my dear fellow pilgrim.—That grace, mercy and peace may be multiplied upon all your dear souls, is the hearty prayer of, my dear Man,