LETTERS (continued 6)

Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, though unworthy servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCXXXIV.

To the Reverend Mr. C――.

Plymouth, Feb. 20, 1749.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Had the pleasure of receiving your letters dated December 29th and 31st. I thank you a thousand times for this, and all your other favours. I did not think Mr. H――’s friendship would hold long. It will be time enough for me to speak to and of him, when I see Bermudas again, which I propose doing, God willing, as soon as possible. In the mean while, I would only observe, that if I am a Roman Catholic, the Pope must have given ♥me a very large dispensation. Surely Mr. H―― has acted like one, to pretend so much friendship, and express it in the strongest terms, and yet have nothing of it in his heart all the while. But thus it must be. Dear Sir, we must be tried every way. Hic murus aheneus esto, &c. As for any secrets that I told him, he is very welcome to reveal them. You know me too well to judge I have many secrets. May the secret of the Lord be with me! and then I care not if there was a window in my heart for all mankind to see the uprightness of my intentions. I long to have Bethesda a foundation for the Lord Jesus. If I can procure a proper solid person of good literature, who will be content to stay two or three years, something may be done. I am now in the West, and have begun to take the field. Great multitudes flock to hear; and our Lord is pleased apparently to countenance my poor unworthy ministrations. I have the pleasure of seeing the seed, which was sown just before I embarked last for America, spring up, producing an hundred-fold. May Jesus have all the glory! Perhaps (O amazing love!) he has not done with me yet. I am better in bodily health than usual, but expect to be sick again when I return to London. Thither I must go in about a fortnight, to preach again to some of the Rich and Great, as well as the Poor. I find it is a trial, to be thus divided between the work on this and the other side of the water. I am convinced I have done right in coming over now; and I keep myself quite disengaged, that I may be free to leave England the latter end of the Summer, if our Lord is pleased to make my way clear. I hope, as you say nothing to the ♦contrary, that all friends are well. I beg to be remembered to them all in the kindest manner, and depend much on their not forgetting to pray for, reverend and dear Sir,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCCXXXV.

To Lady H――.

Plymouth, Feb. 21, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

I Believe it will much rejoice your Ladyship’s heart to hear what is doing in the West. I could not have thought that the seed sown four years ago, would have met with such a great increase. But what cannot God do? I have now proclaimed here seven times the riches of redeeming love, to very large, attentive, and affected auditories. Generally about two thousand attend every night; and the Sunday evening, in the field, I believe there were above five thousand hearers. On Wednesday, God willing, I move hence. My short stay affects the people. But our Lord orders all things well. I hope to be in town at my appointed time, at least within a few days of it. If Mr. B―― is not returned, I shall be grieved to think how your Ladyship will want the ordinance; but, thanks be to God, the fountain is open, and your Ladyship knows the way to it. Last Lord’s-day I administered the sacrament to some few souls that had no pastor; and I could have wished your Ladyship present to have seen an affecting sight,—two parents, both believers, presenting two daughters and a son, in the most solemn manner, for the first time to be communicants. I received them with all joy; and our Lord graced the feast with much of his divine presence. Indeed, my good Lady, affairs bear a very promising aspect. I hear that much good has been done at Bristol. Every where fresh doors are opening, and people flock from all quarters. Prejudices, I find, do subside, and, through grace, strong impressions are made on many souls. I have not been so well, for so long a season together, for many years, as I have been since I left town. A proof, I think, that the Lord calls me into the fields. I hear how your Ladyship has been, by the B――p. Alas! how does the enmity of the heart sometimes make persons to forget good manners! Your Ladyship has been taught of God to forgive and pity. Well, if the great shepherd and bishop of souls has work to be done, he will raise up instruments, and find ways to send them out.

I.

Thoughts are vain against the Lord,

All subserve his powerful word;

Wheels encircling wheels must run,

Each in course to bring it on.

II.

Blest is faith, that trusts his power,

Blest are saints that wait his hour;

Haste, great conqueror, bring it near,

Let the glorious close appear.

I know that your Ladyship will say heartily, Amen. I doubt not but your Ladyship enjoys much of his presence, which is better than life. I hope your honourable and right honourable visitants share richly with you. I beg leave to send them, and your Ladyship, my most dutiful respects, and subscribe myself, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, though unworthy servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXXXVI.

To Lady G――.

Plymouth, Feb. 22, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

YOUR Ladyship’s letter I received yesterday; I trust under some sense of the honour your Ladyship has done me, through the King of kings making me instrumental in quickening or building up your Ladyship’s precious and immortal soul. Like a pure chrystal, I would transmit all the glory he is pleased to pour upon me, and never claim as my own, what is his sole propriety. Thanks be to his great and glorious name, for putting it into your Ladyship’s heart to say sincerely, “Lord, increase my faith.” When I had read your Ladyship’s letter, I could not help observing what a connection there was between the present frame of your Ladyship’s heart, and your present circumstances in respect to your servant. For how is it, honoured Madam, that our faith is to be increased, but by our being exercised with trials? By these the christian grows; and faith, like the burning bush amidst the furnace of affliction, flourishes unconsumed. Blessed be God, that your Ladyship hath taken hold of a great and precious promise. Our Lord has promised, “that he will not suffer us to be tempted above what we are able to bear.” And he is faithful that hath promised. We have nothing to do, but to plead his promise in prayer. Be pleased, therefore, honoured Madam, to solace yourself, under your present distress, with these lines:

I.

With joy we meditate the grace

Of our High-priest above;

His heart is made of tenderness,

His bowels melt with love.

II.

Touch’d with a sympathy within,

He knows our feeble frame;

He knows what sore temptations mean,

For he has felt the same.

III.

He, in the days of feeble flesh,

Pour’d out his cries and tears;

And in his measure feels afresh,

What every member bears.

IV.

Then let our humble faith address

His mercy and his power;

We shall obtain delivering grace,

In the distressing hour.

This is, and shall be, honoured Madam, my daily prayer on your behalf. Fear not; our Lord will take care that all shall work for good. Those who are sincere, will soon get over such stumbling blocks; and those that are not, will stumble at any thing, nay every thing. I bless God, that some have got their faces set Zion-wards. Of the honourable women, ere long, I trust, there will be not a few who will dare to be singularly good, and confess the blessed Jesus before men. O with what a holy contempt may the poor despised believer look down on those, who are yet immersed in the pleasures of sense, and amidst all the refinements of their unassisted, unenlightened reason, continue slaves to their own lusts and passions. Happy, thrice happy they! who begin to feel and experience what it is to be redeemed from this present evil world. Well may they count all things but dung and dross for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus their Lord. Well may they look upon the few righteous, as the only truly excellent ones of the earth; and choose rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. You, honoured Madam, I trust, are one of this happy number. May all your children add to it, and follow your Ladyship, as they see you follow Christ. I hope that some have been inclined to list under his banner, since I left town. Indeed the glorious Redeemer has dealt bountifully with his people, and with unworthy me. The good Lady H――n, I suppose, hath informed your Ladyship of some pleasing particulars. I hope to acquaint you of more at my return to town. In the mean while, I beg leave to subscribe myself, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most obliged, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCCXXXVII.

To the Countess of D――.

Plymouth, Feb. 22, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

YESTERDAY I had the favour of your Ladyship’s letter, which I would have answered immediately, but was engaged both in company, and in preaching the everlasting gospel. Your Ladyship’s answering my poor scrawl, was an honour I did not expect; but, since your Ladyship is pleased thus to condescend, I am encouraged to make a reply. And give me leave to assure your Ladyship, that your own case, and that of your honoured sisters, have been, and are always upon my heart. I pray for both in public and private, though none knows whom I mean. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who, I trust, hath imparted a saving knowledge of his eternal Son to your Ladyship’s heart. Your letter bespeaks the language of a soul which hath tasted that the Lord is gracious, and hath been initiated into the divine life. Welcome, thrice welcome, honoured Madam, into the world of new creatures! O what a scene of happiness lies before you! Your frames, my Lady, like the moon, will wax and wane; but the Lord Jesus, on whose righteousness you solely depend, will, notwithstanding, remain your faithful friend in heaven. Your Ladyship seems to have the right point in view, to get a constant abiding witness and indwelling of the blessed Spirit of God in your heart. This the Redeemer has purchased for you. Of this he has given your Ladyship a taste; this, I am persuaded, he will yet impart so plentifully to your heart, that out of it shall flow rivers of living waters. This Jesus spake of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive. As you have, therefore, honoured Madam, received the Lord Jesus, so walk in him even by faith. Lean on your beloved, and you shall go on comfortably through this howling wilderness, till you arrive at those blissful regions,

Where pain, and sin, and sorrow cease,

And all is calm, and joy, and peace.

And O that your honoured sister may go hand in hand with your Ladyship! Wherefore doth she doubt? Wherefore doth she fear? Why does not her Ladyship say,

To the blest fountain of thy blood,

Incarnate God, I fly;

Here let me wash my spotted soul,

From sins of crimson dye.

Honoured Madam, is it not a fountain opened? Opened for all that will come, and wash at, and drink of it? Entreat her Ladyship, therefore, honoured Madam, not to be faithless, but believing. Beg her to come, or rather be pleased to inform her Ladyship, that her Saviour entreats and commands her to come just as she is, and to accept of salvation as a free-gift. O that with Queen Esther she may say, “If I perish, I perish.” Then shall she see the King of kings holding out a golden sceptre, and not an iron rod. But I forget myself again. Honoured Madam, be pleased to pardon me, and accept what I have written as the overflowings of a heart that hath been wrestling with God, for the salvation of your Ladyship, your honoured sister, and of all related to you. This is the best proof I can give of my being, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most obliged, obedient, and willing servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXXXVIII.

To the Countess of H――n.

Exeter, Feb. 24, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

AFTER I wrote to your Ladyship last post, from Plymouth, I received the letters you was pleased to communicate to Mr. C――. They came quite unexpected. I think it is enough, that my letters are received, not without being answered; but the Lord Jesus will humble me by mercies. O that they may have that blessed effect upon my soul! Inclosed, your Ladyship hath my answers. I have sent them open, that your Ladyship may (if not too long) peruse them. Whilst I was writing, the fire kindled, and I did not well know how to leave off. I rejoice that your Ladyship hath such a promising prospect of doing good among the rich and great. Mr. C――, in his last, writes thus: “Mr. G―― went with me to wait on her Ladyship; where he owns he spent two hours with more pleasure, than he ever remembered to have done in any company before: and, I must freely own, he spoke my own sentiments.” I believe that your Ladyship will daily reap the fruit of a catholic spirit, and a free conversation with the truly gracious of all denominations. It is a conduct truly god-like. Dear Mr. T―― has much of it. I parted from him on Thursday afternoon. He was once almost blinded by weeping under the word. He was rejoiced to see the flocking at Plymouth. Indeed it was very encouraging. Our Lord seemed to keep the best wine until the last. At Tavistock, ten miles from Plymouth, I preached last Thursday, but was rudely treated. For, whilst I was praying, some of the baser sort brought a bull and dogs, and disturbed us much. But I hope that good was done. Blessed be God, we know some has been done. I conversed with three or four, that have been awakened by the reading of some of my printed sermons. Surely the Apostle spoke like himself, when he said, “God has chosen the weak things of this world, to confound the strong; and things that are not, to bring to nought the things that are.” I am now come thus far in my return to London. I purpose, God willing, being there in about ten days. On Monday next I shall set out for Bristol; where, as I am informed, the infinitely condescending Redeemer has been pleased greatly to bless my last visit. When I think of London, I feel a kind of fear and trembling, lest my bodily sickness should return again, and I should not speak to the Mighty and Noble, so as to win them to the ever-blessed Jesus. But I desire to throw myself blindfold into his hands, believing, (Lord, help my unbelief!) that as my day is, so shall my strength be. At present, honoured Madam, this is the language of my heart, to Him, whose I am, and whom I desire to serve:

A life that all things casts behind,

Springs forth obedient to thy call;

A heart, that no desire can move,

But still t’adore, believe, and love,

Give me, my Lord, my life, my all!

I hope this will find your Ladyship quite happy under the shadow of redeeming love. I wish your Ladyship an increase of that happiness every moment, as being, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, though most unworthy humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXXXIX.

To Mr. C――.

Exeter, Feb. 25, 1749.

My dear Mr. C――,

YOUR last, with the inclosed, you may be sure gave me satisfaction, at the same time as they, I trust, humbled me before him, who will send by whom he will send. This post carries answers to the honourable women. I suppose that you will be pleased to find I am thus far in my return to London. O my friend, my friend, I come with fear and trembling. To speak to the rich and great, so as to win them to the blessed Jesus, is indeed a task. But wherefore do we fear? We can do all things through Christ strengthening us. But why does Mr. C―― think it strange, that no-body can be found to help me in the country? Is it not more strange, that you should lie supine as it were, burying your talents in a napkin, complaining that you have nothing to do, and yet souls every where are perishing about you for lack of knowledge? Why do you not preach or print? At least, why do you not help me, or somebody or another, in a more public way? You are in the decline of life, and if you do not soon reassume the place, you are now, through grace, qualified for, you may lose the opportunity of doing so for ever. I write this in great seriousness. May the Lord give you no rest, till you lift up your voice like a trumpet! Up, and be doing, and the Lord will be with you. I can now no more, but inform you, that, God willing, I am to be at Bristol next Tuesday, where letters on Wednesday morning may find, very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXL.

To Mr. S――.

Exeter, Feb. 27, 1749.

Very dear Mr. S――,

I Am ashamed to think that your last kind letter has lain by so long unanswered; but journeying, preaching, and a multiplicity of other business has prevented me. I shall not carry on the debate; only I must thank you for receiving my letter in so friendly a manner, and entreat you, though a host of enemies are behind, and a whole sea of troubles before you, to go forwards. That was the command the great Jehovah gave to his servant Moses, when under very pressing circumstances, so that he knew not what to do. The Lord’s impressing and affecting persons under your exhortation, is a token for good. It is good to be led on step by step into whatever plan providence intends to call us. “He that believeth doth not make haste.” Our business is to follow, and improve the light we have, and that is the way to get more. You know who hath said, “to him that hath shall be given, and he shall have more abundance.” May this promise be fulfilled in your heart! But why does my friend write so about assurance, or think he is too sinful to expect such a favour? Have you learnt Christ no better yet? Who more sinful than Paul or the jaylor, Zaccheus or Magdalene? and who more assured of their salvation? My dear Mr. S――, do not think so hardly of the glorious Redeemer. Draw near to him with boldness, though the greatest of sinners, and urge that as an argument, why he should give you the greatest and most abiding assurance of his everlasting love. This is the only argument I can use in respect to my own soul. Fear not, dear Sir, though clouds return after the rain; ere long I trust the glorious and ever-blessed spirit will not, as to his comforts, be like a way-faring man, tarrying only for a night, but come and make a continued abode in your heart. The language of my soul for you is, “Come Lord Jesus, come quickly!” May I expect an answer to this in London. Thither I am now going from the west, where I have been for about a month, and through grace have seen that the seed sown just before my embarking last for America, has sprung up and produced fruit unto God. To him be all the glory. The impressions made upon some of the great ones do remain. Good Lady H―― sends me good news. Be pleased to remember me as usual to doctor D―― and Mr. H――, and believe me to be, very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXLI.

To the Rev. Mr. H――.

Bristol, March 1, 1749.

Reverend and dear Sir,

I Am much obliged to you for your last kind letter. It was so agreeable, that I sent it to good Lady H――. Her Ladyship writes me word “that it was a letter after her own heart.” She loves a Catholic spirit, and I trust you are not deceived in your thoughts concerning me in this respect. If I know any thing of my desperately wicked and deceitful heart, I truly love all that love the glorious Emmanuel, and though I cannot depart from the principles which I believe are clearly revealed in the book of God, yet I can chearfully associate with those that differ from me, if I have reason to think they are united to our common head. This induced me to call upon good Mr. L――, whose books many years ago were blessed to my soul, when the work that is now spreading, was then only in embryo. I am just come from the west, where I have had the pleasure of seeing the seed sown just before I last embarked for America, sprung up and bearing much fruit. All glory be to Him who alone giveth the increase. I have also had two letters from some honourable women, who I trust have received the grace of God in truth; and Lady H――n writes me word, that “the prospect of doing good at my return to London is very encouraging.” Thither I am now bound. I go with fear and trembling, knowing how difficult it is to speak to the great, so as to win them to Jesus Christ. I sometimes am ready to say, “Lord, I pray thee have me excused, and send by whom thou wilt send.” But divine grace is sufficient for me. I can do all things through Christ strengthening me. My dear brother, fail not to pray for me, that I may hold on and hold out to the end, and in prosperity and adversity press forward with an even, chearful, meek and lowly mind towards the mark, for the prize of our high calling in Christ Jesus. I am glad to hear that doctor S―― goes on so well. I guess he will not be suffered long to halt. It is no matter how soon all worldly shackles are knocked off, and persons set at liberty (supposing they have a proper call) to range for God. I find there is no hopes of compromising matters. Nobody can be ordained that is a Methodist. Well! the time may come, when many of the priests also shall be obedient to the word. They come last; but then many of them come together. I know you will say, Amen! let me hear from you shortly again. You shall have as quick returns as can be given you by, my dear brother,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXLII.

To Lady H――.

Gloucester, March 4, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

HAVING been moving this week from place to place, I could not write to your Ladyship as usual, and even now my body is so fatigued, that I cannot say much. However, I would beg leave to inform your Ladyship that the glorious Emmanuel continues to smile upon my poor labours, and that about the middle of the week, by his leave, I purpose waiting upon your Ladyship in North Audley-street. I doubt not but I shall find your Ladyship riper for heaven, than when I left London. There you will be always thronged with company, and yet free from the least distraction. On earth it is otherwise. However, as we advance in the divine life, we shall be more and more conformed to those ministring spirits, who, though waiting on us below, do always behold the face of our heavenly Father above. This divine lesson, honoured madam, God has begun to teach you. May you daily make a proficiency therein, so that your progress may be made known unto all men! I will follow as fast as I can, though alas! with too slow a pace. I must now add no more, but my usual prayers for your Ladyship’s temporal and eternal welfare, and hasten to subscribe myself, honoured madam,

Your Ladyship’s most dutiful though unworthy humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXLIII.

To Mr. B――.

London, March 10, 1749.

Dear Billy,

I Have just now heard, that a ship will sail for Philadelphia in a day or two. I cannot therefore miss the opportunity of acknowledging the receipt of your last kind letter. I am sorry it brought me such bad news concerning the state of religion in your parts. My constant prayer for you, and my other Philadelphia friends is this, “Lord, revive thy work in the midst of the years.” Notwithstanding so wide a door is opened here, and a prospect of doing much good lies before me, yet I have settled thoughts of embarking for America in the fall. But future things belong to God. His I am, and I desire to be entirely at his alwise disposal. My wife is not yet arrived; I hear she is yet upon the water. May the Lord Jesus be her convoy! I am just returned from an excursion of about six hundred miles in the west, where I had the pleasure of seeing, that the seed sown before I embarked last for America, had been blessed abundantly. Glory be to Him, who alone has given the increase. The news you have had of my preaching to some great ones, is true; I have done it for some time twice a week, and thanks be to the blessed Redeemer, it has already produced good effects. Lady H―― is a mirror of piety indeed. In time, I trust of the honourable women there will not be a few, who dare to confess the Lord Jesus before men. You must remember me to all. I have scarce time to write this, so can only send one general salutation. The Lord Jesus be with all your spirits, Amen and Amen! The bearer, Mr. H――, seems to be well recommended as an honest man. He is an entire stranger to every body in America, and I believe has a mind to settle in Philadelphia. I am desired to write a line in his behalf. You will do what you can for him, because he is a stranger. I could write much more, but am interrupted. Adieu, my dear man, for the present. Pray keep near the ever-blessed Redeemer, and fail not to pray for and write to

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXLIV.

To Mr. S――.

London, March 11, 1749.

My very dear Mr. S――,

I Wish you joy. I trust you may now say, “Now I begin to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.” You know who has commanded us to rejoice and be exceeding glad when men separate from our company, and speak all manner of evil against us falsely for his name’s sake. Thanks be to God, you have at length found out, that whosoever attempts to reconcile God and the world, is attempting to reconcile two irreconcilable differences. They are as opposite as light and darkness, heaven and hell. You have nothing to do, but to go on doing, and then sing with an holy triumph,

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.

You know he is faithful, who hath promised, “that he will never leave nor forsake you.” Wait on him therefore, dear Sir, and you shall renew your strength, nay you shall mount on wings like an eagle; you shall walk and not be weary, you shall run and not be faint. Various are the trials inward and outward that you will meet with. It is in the spiritual as in the natural birth. The after-pangs are sometimes sharper than those that precede the new-birth itself. If you are made use of by Jesus Christ, no wonder that satan desires to have you, that he may sift you as wheat. But fear not; Jesus prays for you; your faith therefore shall not fail. How was Paul humbled and struck down before he was sent forth to preach the everlasting gospel? Prayer, temptation, and meditation, says Luther, are necessary ingredients for a minister. If God teaches us humility, it must be as Gideon taught the men of Succoth, by thorns. This I suppose is what dear Mr. H―― means; he has been conversant with Mr. L――, and writes much therefore in his way. I find he is for making thorough work of it, and digging deep in order to build high. He is certainly right; but why we should not press after and continually plead for assurance, which is every where through the holy scriptures spoken of as the common portion of God’s children, I cannot yet see. It is a false humility to be content without that which God offers and promises to give. Let him give it in his own way and time; but, “Lord give me a full assurance of faith, that I may joy and rejoice in thee evermore!” should be the constant cry of your soul. My dear Sir, I could enlarge, but I must away to our good Lady H――n’s. You must not expect to see her till August. I preached at her Ladyship’s on Thursday, and am to do so weekly. I expect to leave town in about a month. Pray let me see you if possible. A new scene will open to you, now you begin to act publickly for Christ; but I must bid you farewel. Adieu. May the Lord Jesus be with your spirit! Write often, and you shall be answered, God willing, as speedy as possible by, my very dear friend,

Ever yours whilst

G. W.

LETTER DCCXLV.

To the Rev. Mr. G――.

London, March 17, 1749.

My dear Brother,

WHAT a blessed thing it is, that we can write to, when we cannot see one another! By this means we increase our joys, and lessen our sorrows, and as it were exchange hearts. Thanks be to the Lord Jesus, that the work flourishes with you. I am glad your children grow so fast; they become fathers soon; I wish some may not prove dwarfs at last. A word to the wise is sufficient. I have always found awakening times like spring times. Many blossoms, but not always so much fruit. But go on, my dear man, and in the strength of the Lord you shall do valiantly. I long to be your way, but I suppose it will be two months first. My love awaits Mrs. H―― and all that love the Lord Jesus in sincerity. Pray tell my dear Mr. I―― that I cannot now answer the Preston letter, being engaged in answering a virulent pamphlet, entitled, “The Enthusiasm of the Methodists and Papists compared,” supposed to be done by the Bishop of E――. Thus it must be. If we will be temple builders, we must have temple builders lot; I mean, hold a sword in one hand and a trowel in the other. The Lord make us faithful Nehemiahs, for we have many Sanballats to deal with! but wherefore should we fear? If Christ be for us, who can be against us? Nil desperandum, christo duce, is the christian’s motto. My dear brother, good night. May the Lord Jesus be with your spirit, and make you wise to win souls, even wise as an angel of God! Remember me in the kindest manner to honest hearted Mr. I――, and tell him, that in a post or two I hope he will hear again from

His and your most affectionate though unworthy brother and fellow-labourer in Christ’s vineyard,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXLVI.

To the Rev. Mr. W――.

London, April 5, 1749.

Reverend and dear Sir,

YOU cannot well tell how much satisfaction your last kind letter gave me. It was like yourself, like a father in Christ, to write to strengthen the hands of one, who is not yet half your age, but I trust ready to spend and be spent for the good of precious and immortal souls. I see that you have heard how kind my enemies have been to me. They have told me of my faults, and by their opposition have given me an opportunity of confessing them. I am just now publishing a pamphlet, in answer to one published against the Methodists, upon the title-page of which I intend to have these words, “Out of the eater came forth meat.” O how good, how infinitely wise is Jesus Christ! How careful to cause all things to work together for good to those who love him. I have reason to speak well of him, as a promise-keeping Saviour. I doubt not, but he will greatly bless and own you in the latter stages of the road, and cause you to go off like a ripe shock of corn. It will rejoice you to hear that conviction work is going on in England and Wales. I believe the holy spirit is powerfully working on some of the Rich, and the Poor seem rather more eager than ever to hear the gospel. I am much engaged, so that I have scarce time to see or write to any; but in heaven there will be time enough, and but just enough too:

For O eternity’s too short,

To utter all Christ’s praise.

You will be pleased to return my most cordial salutations to your wife, and all that desire the welfare of such a worthless worm. As our common Lord enables, you and they shall be remembered by, Reverend and very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXLVII.

To the Rev. Mr. H――.

London, April 5, 1749.

Rev. and dear Sir,

YOUR kind letter would not have lain by me unanswered so long, had I not been necessarily employed in affairs of immediate consequence. At Lady H――’s request, I read part of it to some of the nobility, who approved of it very much. By your leave, I will put a sentence or two of it, without mentioning names, into a pamphlet I am now fitting for the press. I suppose you have seen it advertised. I want to own and publicly confess my public mistakes. O how many, how great have they been! How much obliged am I to my enemies for telling me of them! I wish you could see my pamphlet before it comes out. I just now wrote to Doctor S―― to see if he cannot meet me this day sevennight, or contrive some way for conveyance of my little piece to him. O that it may be blessed to promote God’s glory, and the good of souls! You will be glad to hear that our Lord has given us a good passover, and that the prospect is still encouraging among the Rich. I intend leaving town in about a week, and to begin ranging after precious souls.—But I shall wait for the doctor’s answer. You judge right when you say, “it is your opinion that I do not want to make a sect, or set myself at the head of a party.” No, let the name of Whitefield die, so that the cause of Jesus Christ may live. I have seen enough of popularity to be sick of it, and did not the interest of my blessed Master require my appearing in public, the world should hear but little of me henceforward. But who can desert such a cause? Who, for fear of a little contempt and suffering, would decline the service of such a Master? O that the Lord Jesus may thrust out many, many labourers into his harvest? Surely the time must come, when many of the priests also shall be obedient to the word. I wait for thy salvation, O Lord!—But I must bid you farewel. Praying that you may grow under the cross, and be enabled to flourish unconsumed in fire, I subscribe myself, Reverend and dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXLVIII.

To Lady H――n.

Gloucester, April 15, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

IT has given me some concern, to think that I was so long in town after I took leave of your Ladyship, and could neither see nor write to you. The last letter I was about to write, I found myself too ill to hold a pen long enough in my hand to finish it. Blessed be God, I find myself now much better. Travelling, as usual, does me service, and the joy of the Lord supplies the want of bodily strength. Ere long I hope to send your Ladyship some good news out of the country. I came hither this morning, and am to preach to night. In a post or two your Ladyship may expect to hear from me again. In the mean while my prayers will be continually putting up, that you may increase with all the increase of God. I hope the elect countess is perfectly recovered of her late indisposition, and that Lady Fanny, H――, C――, &c. are determined to go on in that narrow way which leads to everlasting life. Before I left town, I desired Mr. H―― to send your Ladyship a dozen of my pamphlets, to be presented to the foresaid Ladies, and to whomsoever your Ladyship shall please besides. As many more may be had as your Ladyship sends for. May the Lord give it his blessing, and cause me to grow wiser and better by all his various dispensations towards me. I shall now take my leave; and after wishing your Ladyship, and the other honourable women that are seeking Jesus, much of that rest which remains for the people of God, I shall subscribe myself, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCXLIX.

To the Countess D――.

Bristol, April 19, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

THE unfeigned regard I have for your Ladyship, will not suffer me to be long out of London without sending a line to enquire after your Ladyship’s welfare. I hope this will find you perfectly recovered from, or meekly resigned under, your late bodily indisposition. I believe your Ladyship hath reason to say, “It is good for me, that I have been afflicted;”—and sanctified afflictions are undoubtedly signs of special love. To come purified out of the furnace, and to find that some of our dross is purged away by the Lord’s putting us into the fire, is indeed an evidence that he is praying for us, and that our faith, however tried, shall not finally fail. O Madam, what a blessing is it to be able to say, “I know in whom I have believed!” How does such an assurance sweeten every bitter cup, and make even death itself to appear with an angel’s face! O that all who are destitute of this unspeakable gift, were convinced of their want thereof, and set upon hungering and thirsting after it! I hope your honoured sister will be one of these. I have her Ladyship much upon my heart, and do earnestly pray that she may be strengthened, established, and settled in the love of God, and determine to know nothing but Jesus Christ and him crucified. I send her Ladyship my most dutiful respects, and beg you would accept of the same, from, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCL.

To Lady H――n.

Portsmouth, May 8, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

GLAD, very glad was I to hear, in a letter sent me by Mr. H――, that your Ladyship was better; and glad am I, yea very glad, that I can send your Ladyship good news from this part of the country. The night after I came here, I preached to many thousands, a great body of whom was attentive, but some of the baser sort made a little disturbance. A very great opposer sent for me to his house immediately, and could scarce refrain weeping all the time I was with him. On the Friday evening I preached at Gosport, where the mob has generally been very turbulent, but all was hushed and quiet, and as far as I could find, all approved. Every time the word has seemed to sink deeper and deeper into the people’s hearts, and their affections seem to be more and more drawn out. In short, I hope I can inform your Ladyship that Portsmouth is taken, and that we shall hear of many who will in earnest seek after the one thing needful. I have a great mind to go to the isle of Wight, but am not yet determined. Here is a knot of sincere souls, that seem to love the Lord Jesus in sincerity. Several date their awakenings from their hearing T―― G――, who I hear is to be ordained by the Bishop of W――, but I doubt it. Last night I had sweet conversation with two of the devout soldiers that have been abroad. They are soldiers indeed. Blessed be God, that there are so many of his children scattered up and down, who I trust will give him no rest, till he makes Jerusalem a praise through the whole earth. I do not forget Lady F――, the Countess, or any of those who seemed inclined to follow Jesus of Nazareth. O that they may be steady, and be enabled with full purpose of heart to cleave unto the Lord! I beg that my most humble and dutiful respects may find acceptance with them and your Ladyship, from, honoured madam,

Your Ladyship’s most obliged, obedient humble servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLI.

To the Rev. Mr. M――.

Portsmouth, May 11, 1749.

Rev. and very dear Sir,

IT concerns me much, that one whom I so much honour, and so dearly love in the bowels of Jesus, should hear so seldom from me. Twice have I endeavoured to answer your last kind letter, but have been prevented, by want of health, a multiplicity of business, and frequent removes from place to place. About three weeks ago I was sent for up to London to see my wife, but she is not yet arrived. However, it has been over-ruled to the bringing me here, where I have been preaching every day for this week past, to very large and attentive auditories, who come to hear with great eagerness. I hear of many that are brought under convictions, prejudices seem to be universally removed, and a people that but a week ago were speaking all manner of evil against me, are now very desirous of my staying longer amongst them to preach the everlasting gospel. What cannot God do? After I remove hence, I purpose, God willing, to take a tour into Wales, where Mr. H―― tells me the work is upon the advance. We have lately renewed our connection, and whether I stay in England or go abroad, he and some more have agreed, in the strength of the Lord, to continue preaching at the Tabernacle and elsewhere as formerly. At London, matters have advanced successfully. Real good has certainly been done among the Rich, and the Poor receive the gospel with as much gladness as ever. My outward embarrassments are much lessened, and I hope ere long to be able to say, “I owe no man any thing but love.” Many doors are open, and I have thoughts, if possible, of seeing Scotland this year. But at present I am in a strait, and continually saying, “Lord, what wouldest thou have me to do?” Sometimes I think I must either drop my English or American work; but our Lord knows best how to dispose of me. I would be as clay in his hands, and ready to go whithersoever he is pleased to call me. I should be glad to hear of a revival at C――; but, dear Sir, you have already seen such things as are seldom seen above once in a century. I am afraid that some good men’s calculations about the latter-day glory are premature, and that it is not so near at hand as some imagine. This is our comfort, a thousand years in the Lord’s sight are but as one day. He that comes, will come, and will not tarry. Take courage, my dear Mr. M――; look up, and go on your way rejoicing. You will remember me most kindly to your dear yoke-fellow, Nathaniel, little R――, and the young student in your house, and all dear friends. Indeed I do not forget though I cannot write to you. God will not forget your works of faith, and the many favours conferred on, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in Christ Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLII.

To the Countess D――.

Portsmouth, May 12, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

I Just now rose from my knees, and have been interceding for you at the throne of grace. The same principle that led me to pray for, excites me also to write a few lines to your Ladyship. Ere now your late bodily indisposition, I hope is entirely removed, and you are up and ministring to Jesus Christ. I doubt not but your Ladyship will be helped to sing with a dear saint now with God,

――O happy rod,

That brought me nearer to my God.

The end of all affliction, outward and inward, is to make us more and more partakers of a divine nature. The father of mercies hath dealt bountifully with your Ladyship; he hath blessed you in the decline of life. O that your latter end may greatly increase! May you be filled with all the fulness of God! This, Madam, is the privilege of a real christian, always growing, and making perpetual advances in the divine life. The path of the just shines more and more unto the perfect day. The way, thanks be to God, your Ladyship knows. We must always come by faith, and be continually drawing out of the Redeemer’s inexhaustible fulness. If we are enabled to lean on him, we shall go comfortably on in a wilderness. That is the best name this world deserves. Cieled houses, gaudy attire, and rich furniture, do not make it appear less so to a mind truly enlightened to see the beauties that are in Jesus of Nazareth. These are things, which a watchful, well-informed christian will always look on with a jealous eye, lest they should divert him from looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of his faith. But I need not write thus to your Ladyship, the native language of whose heart I trust is, “God forbid that I should glory save in the cross of Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” The preaching of the cross hath been much blessed here. Multitudes daily attend, and many are much affected. It would please your Ladyship to see the alteration that has been made in a week’s time. But what cannot God do? All things are possible to him. I hope your Ladyship will not forget a poor pilgrim in your prayers. Neither you nor your honoured sister are forgotten by him. I send most dutiful respects and grateful acknowledgments to her Ladyship and Lady G―― H――, and shall only now add, that I am, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most obliged, obedient humble servant, for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLIII.

To Lady F―― S――.

Portsmouth, May 12, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

AS I am uncertain whether good Lady H―― be in town, I make bold to inclose a line to your Ladyship in a letter I have just written to the elect Countess D――. Gratitude constrains me to take the freedom, and the conviction I have that your Ladyship’s face is set Zion-wards, makes me think it will not be altogether unacceptable. With great pleasure I often reflect on that good work, which I trust the ever-blessed God has begun in your soul. My heart’s desire and continual prayer unto him is, that your Ladyship, having put your hand to the plough, may be kept from looking back! Satan will not be wanting to exert his utmost efforts to divert you from the cross. He knows of what influence your Ladyship’s example must necessarily be, and therefore will always be striving to persuade your Ladyship at least to compound matters, and to attempt to reconcile two irreconcilable differences, Christ and the world. But your Ladyship is too well grounded to hearken to his delusive insinuations, and too noble to refuse to give your whole heart to Him who has bought it with no less price than that of his own most precious blood.—What a price is now put into your Ladyship’s hands! What a glorious opportunity is now afforded you, to shew even before kings, that we are made kings indeed, and priests unto God, and that it is our privilege as christians to reign over sin, death, hell, the world, and ourselves, even whilst here on earth. Methinks I see angels gazing to see how your Ladyship acts your part. O that the angel of the everlasting covenant may always accompany you, and by the power of his eternal and all-conquering spirit, enable your Ladyship to fight the good fight of faith, and run with patience the glorious race that is set before you! He is never wanting to those that put their trust in him. Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, be always knocking, and a door of mercy shall be always opened unto you. O the happiness of a life wholly devoted to, and spent in communion and fellowship with the ever-blessed God! It is indeed heaven begun on earth. May your Ladyship taste of it more and more every day and every hour! Blessed be God, I trust some in these parts, who a few days ago had never heard of, now begin to look after this kingdom of God. A more visible alteration I have not seen made in a people for some time. At first some of the baser sort made a noise, but ever since, thousands have attended in the greatest order, numbers have been and are affected, and through their importunity I have been prevailed on to stay longer than I designed. O to be instrumental to bring only one soul to Jesus Christ! But whither am I running? Honoured Madam, your goodness will excuse this freedom. I believe your Ladyship will be glad to hear such tidings. It is the best way I can think of to express my gratitude for the many unmerited favours your Ladyship hath been pleased to confer on, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most obliged and ready servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLIV.

To the Countess of H――.

Portsmouth, May 13, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

WITH some degree of impatience have I been waiting to hear from your Ladyship, being very solicitous for your Ladyship’s welfare. This morning your Ladyship’s unexpected letter surprized me. I only expected to have a line from Mrs. C――. Your Ladyship’s writing under such weakness, put me in mind of Mr. C――, who, when his friends advised him not to write on account of his illness, made this reply, “What! would you have my master come and find me idle?” Perhaps our Lord is fitting your Ladyship for some new work. Luther observed, that “he was never employed in any new thing, but he was beset with some temptations, or visited with a fit of sickness.” I only wish I could bear it for your Ladyship; but then your crown would not be so bright, nor the inward purity of your heart so great. The more trials when sanctified, the more conformed we shall be to the ever-loving ever-lovely Jesus. O that the Lord of all Lords may water you every moment, and cause you to flourish like the burning bush unconsumed in fire! I have more good news to send your Ladyship from Portsmouth. Ever since my last, the prospect of doing good has increased. Thousands have attended, and even when it rained, when one could reasonably expect but very few, some thousands came to hear the word. I have contracted a cold by preaching in the rain; but what is that, if any soul can but get good!

My life, my blood, I here present,

If in thy cause they may be spent;

Fulfil thy sov’reign counsel, Lord;

Thy will be done, thy name ador’d.

On next Monday evening I intend, God willing, to set out for Salisbury, and from thence shall write to your Ladyship again. Yesterday I wrote to the Countess and Lady F――, but did not send the letters to your Ladyship, not knowing but you might have set out for Bristol. My brother would be highly delighted to have your Ladyship under his roof. That God may restore you to perfect health, and make you a blessing to thousands, is and shall be the constant prayer of, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most obliged, dutiful, sympathizing, though unworthy humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLV.

To Lady H――n.

Bristol, May 22, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

SINCE I wrote last to your Ladyship, several things have concurred to prove that Providence directed my way hither. I have preached three times, and each time our Lord caused the word to leave a blessing behind it. Yesterday, congregations were very large in the fields. This evening I am to preach again, and to-morrow, God willing, I set out for Wales.—Though my brother is sorry for the occasion, yet he rejoices very much that he is to be honoured with your Ladyship’s company. I believe you will find his house very commodious, and I am persuaded your Ladyship’s coming will prove a blessing to him. Surely our Lord is only purging you that you may bring forth more fruit. I am always thinking of, and praying for your Ladyship’s perfect recovery. I am now reduced to great weakness myself, but the joy of the Lord is my strength, and through his help I shall leap over every wall. Gladly would I help to bear all your Ladyship’s burdens, and thereby evidence how much I am, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s dutiful, sympathizing, obliged, though most unworthy servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLVI.

To Lady H――.

Abergavenny, May 27, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

THOUGH I suppose your Ladyship will not be at Bristol so soon as this reaches it, yet as this is the most leisure time I am likely to have these three weeks, I cannot help writing a few lines to wait for your Ladyship at my brother’s house. I think (as I am persuaded he does also) that he is highly honoured in having your Ladyship under his roof, and I earnestly pray the Lord of all Lords to bless the waters, for the recovery of your health. Though I want to die myself, yet methinks I would have others live, especially such as, like your Ladyship, are placed upon a pinnacle, and in a particular manner set up as lights in the world. For two days past I have been at my wife’s house for the sake of a little retirement. It has been sweet, yea very sweet, so sweet that I should be glad never to be heard of again. But this must not be. A necessity is laid upon me, and woe is me if I do not preach the gospel of Christ. God willing, I therefore purpose to-morrow to begin a three weeks circuit, and to see what the Lord will be pleased to do by me. The country is alarmed, and I hear very numerous congregations are expected. Your Ladyship shall hear from time to time. May the ever blessed God fill you with all his fulness, and after you have done and suffered what he hath appointed for you here, translate you to partake of an exceeding and eternal weight of glory in his kingdom hereafter. So prays, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, obedient, obliged humble servant, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCCLVII.

Abergavenny, May 27, 1749.

My very dear Brother,

INCLOSED you have a letter for our good Lady H――, whom I suppose you will have the honour of receiving in a few days under your roof. Both before, and ever since I left Bristol, I have been frequently thinking of the unspeakable mercies, that the infinitely great and glorious God is pleased to pour down upon us.—Surely the language of both our hearts ought to be, “What shall we render unto the Lord?” For my part, I am lost in wonder, and want a thousand lives to spend in the Redeemer’s service. O let not my dear brother be angry, if I intreat him at length to leave off killing, and begin to redeem time. A concern for your eternal welfare so affects me, that it often brings bodily sickness upon me, and drives me to a throne of grace, to wrestle in your behalf. Even now, whilst I am writing, my soul is agonizing in prayer for you, hoping I shall see that day, when you will have poured out on you a spirit of grace and of supplication, and look to him whom we have pierced, and be made to mourn as one mourneth for a first-born. Till this be done, all resolutions, all schemes for amendment, will be only like spiders webs. Nature is a mere Proteus, and till renewed by the spirit of God, though it may shift its scene, will be only nature still. Apply then, my dearest Brother, to the fountain of light and life, from whence every good and perfect gift cometh. A worthy woman in all probability is going to throw herself under God, into your hands. A considerable addition will be then made to your present talents, and consequently a greater share of care and circumspection necessary to improve all for the glory of Him, who hath been always preventing and following you with his blessings. Should you prove any otherwise than a pious husband, it will be one of the greatest afflictions I ever met with in my life. At present you can only hurt yourself, which is hurt enough; but then (forgive me, my dear Brother,) I am jealous over you with a godly jealousy. My fears shall be turned into prayers, and I will follow this letter with strong crying unto God in your behalf. My retirement here these two days hath been very sweet; but to-morrow I begin a three weeks circuit. Next sabbath I am to be at Carmarthen, the Friday following at Haverford-west. For the present, adieu. That you may take Christ to be your All in All, and that the remainder of your life may be one continued sacrifice of love to him, who hath shed his precious blood for you, is the hearty prayer of, my dear Brother,

Yours most affectionately,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLVIII.

To Mr. D――.

Abergavenny, May 27, 1749.

My very dear Friend,

YOUR kind letter I received at Bristol, but have not had time to answer it till now. You know what a moving life I lead. It is for one, who laid down his life for me. I want my last remove to come. Blessed be God for your recovery from your late indisposition. Many of God’s people will have reason to be thankful on your behalf. I trust I am; and earnestly pray the Lord of all Lords, that as your day is, so your strength may be. I thank you for minding the poor widows, and the other poor tabernacle petitioners. What an honour is put upon you! To be Christ’s almoner is no mean office. You shall be rewarded ere long before men and angels. Mrs. D―― shall share with you; and as you have been helpers of each others faith, so shall you be partakers of the same glory. May your latter end greatly increase, and may you be enabled to bring forth fruit even to a good old age! I hope good has been done at Bristol. We had three good seasons there. To-morrow I set out on a three weeks circuit through Wales. I have been here these two days for a little retirement: it has been very sweet. On Thursday I saw Mr. E―― I――, the dissenting minister I before spoke of, and found him very meanly apparelled. He is a most worthy man, and from his zeal for God some time ago, he sold fifteen pounds worth of his books to finish a small Meeting-house in which he preaches. He has but three pounds per annum from the fund, and about as much from his people. He lives very low, but enjoys much of God, and hath as great understanding in the figurative parts of scripture as any one I know of in the world. He is a Zachary, and his wife an Elizabeth. Four or five guineas might be bestowed on them. What a scene will open at the great day! How many rich Priests will stand confounded, whilst the poor despised faithful Ministers of Christ shall enter, after all their tribulation, into the joy of their Lord. I tremble for the one, I rejoice in the foresight of the happiness of the other. May my latter end and future state (however I may be disposed of in the mean while) be like theirs! I know you will say, Amen. But what am I doing? I am robbing the poor of your time. Away to your work in the strength of God, and whilst you are feeding others, may the Lord Jesus feast your soul! My heartiest respects attend Mrs. D――. She always shares in the petitions put up for you by, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLIX.

To Mr. I―― C――.

Carmarthen, June 5, 1749.

Dear Jemmy,

AS I have a peculiar love for you and your wife, I need not inform you that your letter, which gave me an account of her great illness, affected me much. I have not failed to remember her at the throne of grace, and I trust this will find her either relieved from her pain, or resigned to his will who orders all things well. Parting is hard to those who, like you two, have walked in love. But we can do all things through Jesus Christ strengthening us. She, when dead, will live for ever, and God will be to you better than seven wives. Pray salute the dear woman for me in the tenderest manner. O that she may be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might, and be enabled to say, “the cup which my father hath given me, shall I not drink it?” I sympathize with poor Mrs. N―― as well as you. God comfort and support you all. We must all be tried. I am still in suspense about my wife: but, what is best, (Glory be to God!) the gospel runs and is glorified! I have been enabled to preach fourteen times within these eight days, and the word has every where fallen with weight and power. Yesterday was a great day here indeed. This morning I am going toward Haverford-west, and am to be at Abergavenny to-morrow fortnight. I know you will continually pray for me. You know under what character, even as the chief of sinners, but

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCCLX.

To Lady H――.

Haverford-west, June 8, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

SINCE my coming into Wales, and leaving Carmarthen, the infinitely great and infinitely condescending Redeemer has been pleased to ride on in the chariot of the everlasting gospel. Congregations grow larger and larger, and all the towns here about are quite open for the word of God. Yesterday I preached very near Pembroke, to-day and next Lord’s day I am to preach here, and to-morrow at St. David’s. Not a dog stirs a tongue. The mayor and gentlemen at Pembroke were very civil, and the justices here are very fond of having me in Haverford-west. I wish I had more time in these parts. The fields are indeed white, ready unto harvest, and the young men bred up at Carmarthen Academy were much taken. The congregations consist of many thousands, and their behaviour is very affecting. Indeed we have blessed seasons. O free grace! Here is a dear young man, just ripe for orders. He has good parts, and hath made some proficiency in the languages, is solid, and of some influence in this town. He can get testimonials, and if ordained I believe would be eminently useful in the church. I wish a way could be found out for his admission: but I fear it is impracticable. However, I thought it my duty just to hint it to your Ladyship. May the great Shepherd and Bishop of souls find out means for sending him, and many more like-minded, into his vineyard! But how is your Ladyship’s health? I begin to be quite uneasy, because I have received no letter from my brother. I despair of hearing now till Tuesday sevennight, when I hope to be at Abergavenny again. In the mean while, my prayers are always going to the throne of grace in behalf of your Ladyship, and every branch of your noble family. That they may take root downwards, and bear fruit upwards, is the ardent desire of, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, though unworthy servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXI.

To Dr. S――.

Landovery, June 14, 1749.

Dear Sir,

A Few days ago, I received a letter from Mr. C――, in which yours to him dated May 20th was inclosed. It gave me some concern, and would have given me more had not the same letter informed me that good Lady H――n had written to you herself. Alas, my dear friend, what needless trouble do you give yourself, and into what difficulties does your fear of man, your too great attachment to the world, and an over-weening fondness for your pretty character, every day bring you! Is it not time to drop our correspondence, when, on so slight an information, you could so much as suspect that I had betrayed that confidence you reposed in me, or believe that I read a letter wherein you declared yourself a Methodist, when I had never such letter from you. The only passage, as far as I can remember, that was read (and that too at my Lady’s request, if I mistake not) was that noble one wherein you said, “Let the world take my character, and tear it to pieces, &c.” Are you ashamed, my dear friend, of the resolution? Or think you to put that in practice, and shun being called a Methodist? You might as well attempt to reach heaven with your hand; for, blessed be God, such an honour has he put upon the Methodists, that whoever renounces the world and takes up Christ’s cross, and believes and lives the doctrines of Grace, must be stiled a Methodist whether he will or not. Formerly it was “You are a Puritan,” now it is, “You are a Methodist.” And why does my dear Mr. S―― take such pains to declare, he never will join the Methodists? Who ever asked him? Or what service could you do their cause by joining, unless your heart was more enstranged from the world than at present it is? Would to God you was more like-minded with Mr. H――! He seems to have set down, and counted the cost. He seems to have begun at the right end, and to be fully convinced that there is no reconciling Christ and the world, God and Mammon. My dear Mr. S――, suffer me to be free with you. Our Lord I trust has begun a good work in your soul: but indeed you have many lessons yet to learn. The great physician must give many a bitter portion, in order to purge out the opinion you have of your own importance, and the too great desire you have to keep in with the world. Reproach you cannot shun, if you appear but a little for Christ; and you will not have more, perhaps not so much, if you shew quite out. Perhaps you may say, I have done this already; do not then be ashamed of it, but go on, grow in grace, press forwards, and then I care not what declaration you make of your not intending to be a Methodist. Be a consistent christian, live above the world, call not the fear of man christian prudence, and then underneath you shall be God’s everlasting arms. Thanks be to his great name, they have upholden me for some weeks last past. I have now been a circuit of several hundred miles. At Portsmouth and Gosport the word ran and was glorified. In South Wales every where the fields have been white ready unto harvest. Not a dog stirs his tongue. Last Sunday I believe I preached to near twenty thousand souls. Grace! grace! In about ten days I hope to be at Bristol. Soon after I propose to go to London, and from thence to Yorkshire and Scotland.—Follow me with your prayers, and in return you shall be remembered by, very dear Sir,

Your affectionate friend,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXII.

To the Reverend Mr. H――.

Landovery, June 14, 1749.

Reverend and dear Sir,

YOURS, dated May 24th, gave me both pleasure and pain. I was pleased to read the sweet observations made up and down in it, but pained to find that you have been much indisposed. But what says our Lord? “Those that abide in him, he will purge;” but it is only in order that they may bring forth more fruit. Perhaps our Lord is about to employ you in some fresh work. I wish you may be enabled to draw your pen on the topic you mentioned; it may be of great service to the church of Christ. Your remark upon my pamphlet is just. I wrote short, because I know long compositions generally weary the reader. Perhaps hereafter I may write more; but at present I find I have enough to do, to travel, and preach, and answer my correspondents. I published my confession of some mistakes and imprudencies, to satisfy my own conscience, and stop the mouths of adversaries, and strengthen the hands of real disinterested hearty friends: but where are such friends to be found? That phantom called Contempt keeps them in fetters, and makes them afraid to appear in defence of a cause, which, (notwithstanding the many imprudencies that have attended it) is undoubtedly the cause of God. If we think to be free from these, in this imperfect state of things, and to see either a perfect saint or a perfect church till we come to heaven, we shall find ourselves much mistaken. Daily experience, and more mature consideration, may lessen our blunders and imperfections; but death alone will put a final stop to their mixing in all we do. Thanks be to God that we have a Christ, who amidst all does love, and can uphold us. If our infirmities lead us to his cross, and our sufferings only make us more willing to be conformed to him in his death, we are gainers by all our losses, and rise by all our falls. Blessed be the Lord, that you, dear Sir, have had grace given you to sit down and count the cost. I wish the beloved physician was more reconciled to the cross. I am persuaded, let him say what he pleases, that a too great attachment to the world makes him reason as he does in many things. Well,—he is in good hands. He must either come or be dragged to the cross. That pretty character of his must be crucified and slain: and as well as others, he must be content (as Mr. Gurnall expresses it) “to go to heaven in a fool’s coat.” O my dear Sir, what pains is the Lord Jesus obliged to take with us, before we can be reconciled to suffer shame for his great name’s sake!

Bristol, June 24.

Thus far I wrote, but was obliged to stop, being called out to preach. Yesterday God brought me here, after having carried me a circuit of about eight hundred miles, and enabled me to preach, I suppose to upwards of a hundred thousand souls. I have been in eight Welch counties, and I think we have not had one dry meeting. The work in Wales is much upon the advance, and likely to increase daily. Had my dear Mr. H―― been there to have seen the simplicity of so many dear souls, I am persuaded he would have said, “Sit anima mea cum Methodistis!” But every one to his post. During this excursion I have been kept happy inwardly, and well in body till the latter end of last week, when the Lord was pleased to lay his hand upon me, so that I was almost brought to the grave. But he that wounds, heals also. Thanks be to his holy name for ever and ever! On Monday or Tuesday next, God willing, I set out for London. Good Lady H―― is here, and goes on in her usual way, doing good. She is recovered from her indisposition. I hope this will find you recovered also. That the Lord of all Lords may give you a thriving soul in a healthy body, is the hearty prayer of, reverend and dear Sir,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXIII.

To the Reverend Mr. P――.

London, July 10, 1749.

Reverend and dear Sir,

YOUR kind letter came safe to hand, and it was the more welcome, because it gave me a proof of your being recovered from your late threatening indisposition. Blessed be God, it found me as well as can be expected in my body, and I trust steady in promoting the welfare of precious and immortal souls. I have lately seen great things in Wales, and the seed sown among the Rich, has in some sprung up and brought forth fruit; but what you have heard from Scotland is all a mistake. I heartily wish all was true. The time I hope will come, when princes shall adorn the Redeemer’s train. Is there no prospect of your coming over? Your Mr. T―― might do much for New-Jersey college; but I have told you my mind in a former letter. May God direct for the best! I am looking up, to know what the great Head of the church would have me to do. I have a great mind to return to my beloved America this fall, but am not yet determined. My wife arrived about a fortnight ago, and joins in sending cordial salutations to all. O that we may all increase with all the increase of God! Your sentiments concerning Mr. H――’s book, are very just. It has gone through six editions. The author of it is my old friend; a most heavenly-minded creature, one of the first of the Methodists, who is contented with a small cure, and gives all that he has to the poor. He is very weak, and daily waits for his dissolution. A neighbouring clergyman near him preaches the gospel; and a physician, formerly a noted Deist, has lately espoused the interest of Jesus of Nazareth. We correspond with, though we cannot see one another. We shall ere long meet in heaven:

There pain, and sin, and sorrow cease,

And all is calm, and joy, and peace.

I recommend myself most earnestly to your prayers, and am, reverend and dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXIV.

To Mr. J―― D――.

London, July 12, 1749.

My dear Friend,

I Am obliged to you for your kind letters; for the trouble you have been at about the money, and for all favours. Was I to follow my own inclinations, I would come and thank you in person; but I fear providence will not permit me to embark for America this fall. However, I am looking up, and looking about me, and trust our Lord will point out his way before me. I am not at all uneasy at what one of your clergy may have said of me; I am only sorry upon his own account; having known more than once, that God delights to plead the cause of the injured. I trust I can say, that with simplicity and godly sincerity I desire to have my conversation in the world; and I hope it is my daily study to keep a conscience void of offence towards God and towards man. Whilst this is the case, we need not fear what men or devils can say, or do unto us. They can only speak all manner of evil against us falsely: and that our Lord hath taught us to expect. They can only kill the body; blessed be God, the soul is out of their reach. I am content to wait till the day of judgment for the clearing up of my character: and after I am dead, I desire no other epitaph than this, “Here lies G. W. what sort of a man he was, the great day will discover.” O my dear Sir, what a blessed thing is it to have the Redeemer to be our friend. If we can but truly say, “I know that my Redeemer liveth,” how safely may we put our souls into his hands, as into the hands of a faithful creator! I hope my dear Mr. D―― will not rest till he can say so.—The frequent indispositions of body that you are under, are so many loud calls to prepare for another world.—Nothing but the righteousness of Christ imputed, and the holiness of Christ imparted to your soul, can make you happy in a dying hour. I could enlarge, but must away. With this, I have sent you a dozen of my nine sermons, to be disposed of as you think best. I would send more, but have very few left. I would write to Esquire R――, and some other gentlemen, but have not the least leisure. Be pleased to remember me to them in the kindest manner, as they come in your way, and let them know they are not forgotten by me. Will your dear yoke-fellow, and all your family, accept of my hearty love? I owe you much. May the Lord Jesus reward you a thousand-fold! He will, he will. Last night Capt. H―― did me the pleasure to sup with me. I took it extremely kind, and should be glad to wait upon Bermudas friends every day. My wife hath been arrived about a fortnight, and joins in sending cordial salutations with, my dear Mr. D――,

Yours most affectionately,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXV.

To Lady Fanny S――.

Bristol, Aug. 1, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

THOUGH I had the pleasure of hearing of your welfare, by your last to good Lady H――n, yet I cannot help taking the freedom of sending your Ladyship a few lines. They come to inform you, that you never are, and, by divine assistance, never shall be forgotten by me at the throne of grace. To that, I trust, your Ladyship finds free access every day, and every hour, through the blood of the Lamb, who was slain to take away the sins of the world. Your Ladyship’s present situation, I hope, will be sanctified to this end. It is in the school of affliction that we must learn the way to, and reap benefit from the cross.—Happy they who come purified out of the furnace, and, like the burning bush, flourish unconsumed in fire. This, Madam, is the privilege of all believers. Trials, which harden others, purify and soften them. The love of God turns every thing into what is more valuable than gold. It brings light out of darkness, and causes others blindness to increase our spiritual sight. O glorious privilege! happy change! How much are you indebted, honoured Madam, to free grace, for making you in any degree a partaker of it! Alas! alas! but few of your Ladyship’s station in life choose to strive to enter into that strait gate which leadeth unto life eternal. The noise of coaches, and the continual attention to what they call innocent diversions, drowns the small still voice of God’s blessed Spirit speaking in their hearts. Since I have been here, many in high life have attended; whether to any valuable purpose, the great day will discover. Good Lady H――n still continues to abound in the work of the Lord, and is brightening her crown every day and hour. She is quite well, and intends staying some days longer for the benefit of the waters. Your Ladyship is remembered when we are feasting at the Redeemer’s table. In a few days I shall move hence; and it may be, that I shall go to Georgia this fall. May the Lord direct me, and bless all those who are the orphan’s friends! That your Ladyship may be blessed with all the blessings of the everlasting gospel, is the hearty prayer of, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most obliged, obedient humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXVI.

To Mr. L――.

Bristol, Aug. 4, 1749.

Dear Mr. L――,

PROVIDENCE, for wise reasons, prevented my seeing you both at Gloucester, and at the Hill. This comforts me, “What is, is best.” Since I came here, I have seen your letter about the intended charity-school, and wish you success in the name of the Lord. I communicated it to our elect lady, who immediately contributed five guineas, another two, and Colonel G―― one. These I have sent for you, to Mr. ――, who, I suppose, will take care to convey them to you. Mrs. E――, I believe, intends to do something. Mr. C―― likewise spoke to the Bishop, who, I think, has promised to contribute: so that you see no time has been lost. Only, my dear friend, take this caution, “sit down, and count the cost, before you begin to build.” Do not lay out more than you know you can pay. Go the cheapest way to work; and if you cannot build, rather keep a stock in hand to pay the schoolmaster, and hire a house convenient from year to year, and, if possible, find the children in books. You well know what I have suffered for running too far into debt for others. I am glad you are likely to settle at S――. May the Lord Jesus bless you and yours more and more! He continues to be kind to me, and will at length, I am persuaded, (though I pass through many tribulations) land me safe in glory. There we shall meet, never to part again. In the mean while, that we may both behave like good soldiers of Jesus Christ, is the hearty prayer of, my dear friend,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXVII.

To the Bishop of W――.

Bristol, Aug. 7, 1749.

My Lord,

THE occasion of my troubling your Lordship in this manner, is as follows. I have, more then once, been very credibly informed, that your Lordship has been pleased to charge me, at the public Wells, with being guilty of Perjury. This comes, therefore, to beg the favour of your Lordship, only to let me know, (in whatever manner your Lordship shall judge most proper) upon what foundation such a charge is built: and I hereby promise, by divine assistance, that a full, fair, and explicit answer shall be given to your Lordship, by, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s dutiful son and servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXVIII.

To the Bishop of W――.

Bristol, Aug. 7, 1749.

My Lord,

I Thank your Lordship for your kind and cordial letter. I shall take care to do your Lordship justice, by shewing it to such persons as I think have been more immediately concerned. This, I imagine, will be as much satisfaction as your Lordship will desire. I suppose the mistake has lain here: your Lordship might have insinuated, that by my present way of acting, I had broken the solemn engagement I had entered into at my ordination: and that might have been interpreted to imply a charge of Perjury. The relation in which I stand to the Right Honourable the Countess of H――, made me desirous to clear myself from such an imputation; and at the same time to give your Lordship an opportunity of vindicating yourself in the manner you have done. Was I not afraid of intruding too much upon your Lordship’s time, and of shewing the least inclination to controversy, I would endeavour, in the fear of God, to answer the other part of your Lordship’s letter; and, as far as lies in me, give your Lordship a satisfactory account of whatever may seem irregular and exceptionable in my present conduct. This I would be glad to do, not only before your Lordship, but all the Right Reverend the Bishops; for I highly honour them on account of the sacred character they sustain, and would make it my daily endeavour to obey all their godly admonitions. This, I presume, my Lord, is the utmost extent of the promise I made at my ordination. If I err or deviate from this, in any respect, it is through ignorance and want of better information, and not (as far as I know my own heart) but of obstinacy or contempt of lawful authority. But I forget myself. I beg your Lordship’s pardon for taking up so much of your time; I thank your Lordship for your prayers in my behalf; and beg leave to offer mine in return for your Lordship’s present and eternal welfare, who am, my Lord,

Your Lordship’s dutiful son, and obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXIX.

To Lady H――.

Plymouth, Aug. 15, 1749.

Honoured Madam,

I Hope this will find your Ladyship recovered from the fatigue of your journey, and sitting under the Redeemer’s shadow with unspeakable delight at Ashby-Place. My prayers have constantly followed you, ever since I left your Ladyship at Bristol; and the Lord of all lords has dealt bountifully with me in my way Westward. At Wellington, as I was riding through the town, a good woman stopped me, and entreated me to give the people a sermon. I complied, and preached to a great company; and the next day to a much larger at the same place. I have also preached once at Exeter, twice at Kingsbridge, and once here at Plymouth, where, by the providence of an infinitely condescending God, I came yesterday in the afternoon. Several, I find, were awakened when I was here last; and the fields are every where white, ready unto harvest. My late pamphlet has been greatly blest. My Lord of Exeter was asked, Whether he had seen it? He answered, “Yes,” and said, “I wrote like an honest man, had recanted several things, but he goes on in the same way yet.” Being asked, Whether he did not intend publishing his second part? he replied, “You may expect a second.” God be praised! I wish it may come out before I embark. I find he did not proceed to sentence Mr. T――; he only threatened to pull off his gown. Mr. T―― immediately pulled it off himself, and said, “He could preach the gospel without a gown,” and went out. Upon which the Bishop sent after him, and soothed him. In a few days I hope to see Mr. T――, and then your Ladyship shall have further particulars. Blessed be God, all things turn out for the furtherance of the gospel. “Out of the eater comes forth meat, and out of the strong comes forth sweetness.” In about a fortnight I hope to reach London, and in the mean time shall take care to send your Ladyship historical letters. I count it my highest honour and privilege to wait upon your Ladyship; but I fear shall never have it in my power to express my gratitude as I ought, for those unmerited favours your Ladyship hath been pleased to confer on, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, obliged, though unworthy servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXX.

To Mr. S――.

Plymouth, Aug. 18, 1749.

Dear Sir,

I Thank you for your kind letter, which I have not had an opportunity of answering until now. I rejoice that so much gospel seed has been sown in Yorkshire, and that so much hath sprung up and brought forth fruit. No wonder that the enemy has been busy to sow tares of various kinds amongst it. This always was, and, in all probability, will always be the case, till time shall be no more. Happy they! who are enabled to distinguish truth from error, and who, amongst the different sentiments of Christ’s disciples, maintain a catholic love for all. Your letter bespeaks you to be thus minded. This is what I would aim at, because it is the glory of a christian, and a temper of mind which sweetly prepares us for the communion of saints in heaven. Be pleased, therefore, to give my love to all that love the Lord Jesus in sincerity. If any of my poor writings have been blessed to any, let Christ have the glory, and me your prayers. I want them much. I am the chief of sinners, less than the least of all saints; but, I trust, am willing to spend and be spent for souls. The beginning of next month, I have thoughts of being your way. If it is best, providence will direct my course thither. In the mean while, and at all other seasons, whether I come or not, I recommend myself to your prayers, as being, though unknown, yet, for Jesus Christ’s sake,

Your affectionate friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCLXXI.

To Captain W――.

Plymouth, Aug. 19, 1749.

My very dear Brother,

I Do not love to be long out of Bristol without writing to you. I want to know how it is with you after the loss of my noble patroness, and whether dear Mr. H―― goes on. I have been preaching as usual in the West, and for some days past have been comforted and refreshed in a peculiar manner. Last night I heard that the Bishop had published a second pamphlet, of half-a-crown price, with a preface to me. Have you seen it, or do you think it worth answering? He told a clergyman some time ago, that he might expect a second part. He said, “My answer was honest; that I had recanted many things, but that I went on in my usual way still.” God forbid I should do otherwise. I am informed, that upon threatening to pull Mr. T――’s gown off, he threw it off himself, and said, “He could preach the gospel without a gown,” and so withdrew. Upon which the Bishop sent for him in, and soothed him. Particulars I expect to hear on Tuesday at Biddiford, where I hope to see Mr. T――; and to-morrow se’nnight, God willing, I intend to preach at Exeter, in my way to London. I hope you find retirement blessed to you. Whether retired, or in public life, that you may be entirely devoted to the most adorable Redeemer, is the hearty prayer of, my very dear brother,

Yours most affectionately,

G. W.

Postscript to Lady H――n.

Honoured Madam,

SINCE I wrote the above, God has given me a glorious season at the dock, where I preached to a great multitude. This morning the King of kings shewed himself in the gallery of his ordinances indeed; and this evening I preached to many thousands in Plymouth fields. It was a solemn meeting. Since that, a youth, laden with a sense of sin, came crying, “What shall I do to be saved?” May Jesus give him rest! May the same Jesus still fill your Ladyship with all his fulness! To-morrow, God willing, I set out for Biddiford. I have now a clergyman with me, who is made a rural Dean, and who, I believe, preaches Christ in sincerity.

LETTER DCCLXXII.

To Lady H――n.

Biddiford, Aug. 24, 1749.

SINCE I had the honour of writing to your Ladyship, I have seen the Bishop’s second pamphlet, in which he hath served the Methodists, as the bishop of Constance served John Huss, when they ordered some painted devils to be put round his head, before they burned him. His preface to me is most virulent. Every thing I wrote in my answer, is turned into the vilest ridicule, and nothing will satisfy, but giving up the glorious work of the ever-blessed God, as entirely cheat and imposture. I cannot see that it calls for any further answer from me. Mr. Wesley, I think, had best attack him now, as he is largely concerned in this second part. I hope to be in London some time next week. I think of leaving this place to-morrow, and to preach at Exeter next Lord’s-day. The glorious Emmanuel has given me several spiritual children in this place, who do indeed adorn the gospel of God their Saviour. Here is a little flock, to whom, I believe, it will be our heavenly Father’s good pleasure to give an eternal kingdom. I have preached once publicly to a large auditory, and this evening am to preach again. I am ashamed I do no more for Him, who hath done and suffered so much for me. O what shall I render unto the Lord of all lords, whose mercy endureth for ever! A thought of his infinite patience and long-suffering strikes me dumb. His goodness, in bringing me into the acquaintance of your Ladyship, quite amazes me; and the many peculiar providences that have attended me this last year, encourage me to believe that goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and that I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. There, shall I see your Ladyship; and will there thank you before men and angels for all you have done for unworthy me, and that blessed cause in which I am embarked. That your Ladyship in the mean while may be watered every moment by the dew of the Redeemer’s heavenly blessing, is and shall be the continued prayer of, honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, obliged, though unworthy servant for Christ’s sake,