LETTERS. (continued 5)

Be turn’d to joyous day.

I rejoice in the prospect of your coming forth like gold that is tried. May you increase though I decrease! Justly might my Master throw me aside; but he is patient and long-suffering, and will send by whom he will send. Since we parted, I have been led to several new places. Travelling and preaching thrice a day was made delightful. Blessed be God for my airy pluralities! O what am I, Lord, that I should be sent into the highways and hedges!

All hail reproach, and welcome pain,

Only thy terrors, Lord, restrain!

These I cannot bear. A Father’s, a Saviour’s frowns are intolerable. But what am I doing? Excuse this freedom, because it flows from love. How does dear Mr. D――? How are the elect Ladies? If possible I shall write to-night; if not, very soon. I am glad Miss G―― is in such a promising way. She nor any of our honoured friends are forgotten in my poor prayers. If I should be prevented from writing, be pleased to present my most dutiful respects, and accept most cordial love and salutations from, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCXXXIX.

To Lady H――n.

London, June 4, 1756.

Ever-honoured Madam,

MAN appoints, but God disappoints. In hopes of seeing your Ladyship, I hastened to Bristol, but found your Ladyship had been in London whilst I was there. Sorry was I for the occasion of your Ladyship’s journey, and yet glad to hear that Master H―― was so well recovered. At Bristol the Redeemer caused us to triumph, and likewise in Gloucestershire, at Bradford, Frome, Warminster, and at Portsmouth, whither I have been these three weeks last past. I am now come up for about ten days to keep Pentecost; I trust it will be a Pentecost to many souls at Long-Acre. Blessed be God, a new building is now erecting at Tottenham-Court Road: Mr. J―― promises to assist me. We have consulted the Commons, about putting it under your Ladyship’s protection. This is the answer: “No nobleman can licence a chapel, or in any manner have one put in his dwelling house; that the chapel must be a private one, and not with doors to the street for any persons to resort to at pleasure, for then it becomes a public one; that a chapel cannot be built and used as such, without the consent of the parson of the parish, and when it is done with his consent, no minister can preach therein, without licence of the Bishop of the diocese.” There seems then to be but one way,—to licence it as our other houses are: and thanks be to Jesus for that liberty which we have. O that I could begin to work while it is day. My God! half the year gone, and so little, yea very little done for thee! I have need of being purged, that I may at length bring forth some fruit unto God. Glory be to his great name, he doth not say, “Let him alone.” Outward and inward trials frequently surround me; but, by the help of my God, I shall leap over every wall. I know your Ladyship will not forget to pray for me. My poor prayers are always offered up for your Ladyship and honoured family. That is the only pepper-corn of acknowledgment that can be made by, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCXL.

To Mr. G――.

London, June 10, 1756.

My very dear Friend,

WHAT shall I say? Had I wings, how gladly would I fly to my dear America? But alas! the glittering sword is now unsheathed, and I fear it would not be proper for me to cross the water now. However, all the provinces are continually upon my heart: night and day do I remember them before God. Satan hath been angry with me for appearing for my Jesus, my King, and my country. If you examine the Gazette for the latter end of April, or beginning of May, you will see what it hath produced. My life hath been threatened, but we are immortal till our work is done. A new building is now erecting at the other end of the town, the top-stone of which, I trust, will be brought forth with shoutings, and we shall cry Grace! grace! People are rather more eager than ever to hear the word. I remark what you say about Georgia, and shall talk with Mr. D――. The good Lord Jesus direct you in every step! What if you went and lived at Bethesda, and took all my outward affairs upon your hands, and furnished the family with all it wanted. Glad should I be of such a steward, and of such a steward’s wife as I know dear Mrs. G―― would prove. Poor P―― hath served me as others before him have done. God keep us from that prosperity which destroyeth! In all time of our wealth, good Lord deliver us! Let me hear from you concerning Bethesda. Watch and pray. I send most cordial respects to you and yours, and all dear friends that are so kind to enquire after, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCXLI.

To Lady H――n.

London, June 10, 1756.

Ever-honoured Madam,

BEING just come off the bed, where I have been sweating for a cold and cholic that had seized me this day, I met with your Ladyship’s very kind and condescending letter. I see your Ladyship is touched in a very tender point: generous minds are always thus affected, when a friend is abused. But I find more and more, honoured Madam, that our own mother’s children will be permitted to be angry with one. The contradiction of saints, is more trying than that of sinners:—but it is all to teach us to cease from man, and wrap ourselves in Him, in whom alone dwells consummate perfection. That I might say, “some of Mr. L――’s principles, in my opinion, are wrong,” I do not deny; but that I put Mr. W――y upon writing, or had any active hand in his pamphlet, is utterly false. I think it is a most ungentleman-like, injudicious, unchristian piece. However, Mr. L―― knows too much of the divine life, not to see some call even in this cross; and I hope your Ladyship will not suffer it to burden your mind any longer. Satan wants to disturb your Ladyship’s repose. Ere long, blessed be the glorious Emmanuel, he will be bruised under our feet. This last week I have had some respite from his artful and perplexing suggestions, and have been enabled to ride upon my high places. My present work at London seems to be over, and Monday or Tuesday next, God willing, I hope to set out for Bristol, where I purpose preaching next Thursday. If divine Providence should not direct your Ladyship thither, I have thought of coming through Leicestershire, in my way to Scotland. This circuit, I hope, will be a three months circuit. The prospect in London is very promising. Every day we hear of fresh conquests. To thee, and thee alone, most adorable Redeemer, be all the glory! Want of strength forbids my enlarging. O this vile body! Surely our treasure is in earthly vessels. When it is breaking to pieces, and the rattles are in my throat, I hope with my latest breath to acknowledge the innumerable unmerited favours which have been conferred by your Ladyship on, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCXLII.

To Mrs. C――.

London, June 21, 1756.

Dear Mrs. C――,

NOTHING concerns me in your last letter, but your having the least suspicion that I was not pleased with your conduct, or was not satisfied with your being at Bethesda. I know of no person in the world that I would prefer to you, neither had I ever one thought to the contrary. I think myself happy in having such a mother for the poor children, and am persuaded God will bless and own you more and more. I pity poor Mr. P――, but doubt not of Bethesda’s being well supplied. I think if Mr. R―― manages outward things, and Mr. D―― takes the accounts, and keeps to the children, affairs may be managed very well. I care not how much the family is lessened. As it is a time of war, this may be done with great propriety, and then the plantation will have time to grow. J―― H――y writes that you use him quite well, and seems very contented. Never fear, my dear Mrs. C――, Jesus will stand by a disinterested cause. I have aimed at nothing in founding Bethesda, but his glory and the good of my country. Let Lots then chuse the plain, God will be Abrahams’ shield and exceeding great reward. All is well that ends well. Faith and patience must be exercised by means of friends as well as by foes. I hear that my nephew is married. Alas, what a changing world do we live in! Blessed be God for an unchangeable Christ! Amidst all, this is my comfort, his word runs and is glorified. A new building is now erecting at the other end of the town, and many souls, I trust, are daily built up in their most holy faith. To-morrow, God willing, I set out upon a long range. Fain would I have all concerned with me to be happy. Just now Mrs. F―― hath determined to come over and marry H――. I have advised her to go with M――, and told her she should be welcome to my house till she goes to Carolina. I know you will receive her kindly. It is her own choice, and therefore she must look to the consequences. The Lord give us all a right judgment in all things. Near this time, I suppose, you know my mind about Mr. D――. I have no objection, and your brothers are quite fond of the match. Perhaps, take all together, it may be more agreeable than the other. We seldom choose well, when we choose for ourselves. God’s thoughts are not as our thoughts. Take courage, my dear Mrs. C――; Bethesda’s welfare doth not depend on a single person. God will provide: I think he hath already. I care not if all the boarders were gone. Mr. R―― and D―― and you are hearty. Enough, enough! God will bless and prosper you. I am more than contented. My blessing to all the children. That the God of all grace and mercy may fill you with all his fulness, is the earnest prayer of, dear Mrs. C――,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCXLIII.

To Mr. D――.

London, July 10, 1756.

My dear Mr. D――,

YOUR letter gave me satisfaction. I read it on our Letter-day, and you and the rest of my dear family had many prayers put up for you. May they enter into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth! Ere now, I hope you have agreed upon what plan to act. I shall send no one over. As I would have the family lessened as much as possible, you that are left upon the spot will be sufficient. Debts may then be paid, and the plantation brought into good order, by the time Providence opens a door for my seeing America again. What think you of J―― P――? If not truly serious, I would not have him sent to the college. Lord Jesus, do thou shew all concerned, what thou wouldst have them to do! Surely Bethesda will be a house of mercy still. God blesses my feeble labours here. Last night I came from Bristol. There the word ran and was glorified. In a few days I set out for Scotland. God continue my moving life, till I am moved at last to glory! Continue to pray for me, and assure yourself of not being forgotten by, my very dear Mr. D――,

Yours most affectionately, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCXLIV.

To Lady H――n.

London, July 17, 1756.

Ever-honoured Madam,

YOUR Ladyship’s kind letter found me just returned from Bristol, and just setting out for Maidstone and Chatham, where I have been to preach the gospel, and to visit a poor murderer. I hope that my poor feeble labours were not altogether in vain in the Lord. A divine influence accompanies the word preached here, and I am now preparing for my northern expedition. If your Ladyship removes not from Donnington soon, perhaps I may have the honour of waiting upon your Ladyship there. My motions must be very quick, because I would hasten to Scotland as fast as possible, to have more time at my return. Eternity! eternity! O how do I long for thee! But alas, how often must we be like pelicans in the wilderness, before we arrive there? Solitariness prepares for the social life, and the social life for solitariness again. Thus doth an all-wise Redeemer set one over against another. Jesus is the alone center of peace and comfort in either situation. Your Ladyship knows this by happy experience. Perhaps our consolations come sweetest, when immediately derived from the fountain head. Springs fail, the fountain never can nor will. That your Ladyship may every moment be refreshed with its living waters, is and shall be the earnest prayer of, ever-honoured Madam,

Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, obliged, and ready servant,

G. W.

LETTER MCXLV.

To Mrs. C――.

Islington, July 27, 1756.

Dear Mrs. C――,

SINCE my last, which I believe is not yet gone, I have given an order to have Mr. R――’s children delivered to him or his mother, or whomsoever they shall appoint: and pray lessen the family as much as possible. I wish I had none in the house, but what were proper orphans. The plantation would then suffice for its support, and debts be paid: but we must buy our experience. Troubles seem to beset us here: but we are all secure in God, even in a God in Christ. His gospel flourishes in London. I am just returned from preaching it at Sheerness, Chatham, and in the camp. This afternoon or to-morrow I set off for Scotland. I can only add, that with continual prayers for your temporal and spiritual welfare, I am, dear Mrs. C――,

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

G. W.

P. S. My hearty love to all. The Lord be with you! Amen, and Amen!

LETTER MCXLVI.

To Mr. Z――.

Sunderland, August 14, 1756.

Honoured and very dear Sir,

HOW swiftly doth my precious time fly away! It is now a fortnight since I came to Leeds in Yorkshire, where the gospel had indeed free course, did run, and was glorified. On the Sunday evening, a few hours after my arrival, many thousands were gathered in the fields, to whom, I trust, Jesus enabled me to speak with some degree of power. The following week I preached in and about Leeds, thrice almost every day, to thronged and affected auditories; and on Sunday last the fields were indeed white ready unto harvest. At Bradford, about seven in the morning, the auditory consisted of about ten thousand; at noon, and in the evening at Burstall, to near double the number. Though hoarse, the Redeemer helped me to speak, so that all heard. Upon every account it was a high-day. In the evening several hundreds of us rode about eight miles, singing and praising God. Indeed it was a night much to be remembered. The next morning I took a sorrowful leave of Leeds, preached at Tadcaster at noon, and at York the same night. God was with us. On Tuesday I preached twice at York (delightful seasons!); on Wednesday at Warstall, about fifty miles off; on Thursday twice at Yarm, and last night and this morning here. All the way I have heard of a great concern since I was in these parts last year, and of many glorious trophies of the power of redeeming love. In heaven, honoured Sir, you will know all. There I shall throw my crown before the Lamb, and there you shall be rewarded for strengthening the hands of the most unworthy creature that ever was employed by God. After spending my sabbath here, and visiting Shields, Newcastle, and some adjacent places, I purpose to go on to Scotland. From thence I hope to have the honour of writing to you again. This is the first time I have had a proper opportunity of refreshing myself in that way. Praying that you may increase with all the increase of God, and begging your acceptance of repeated thanks for repeated unmerited favours, I subscribe myself, honoured and very dear Sir,

Your most dutiful, though most unworthy son in the glorious gospel,

G. W.

LETTER MCXLVII.

To the Reverend Mr. T――.

Edinburgh, September 9, 1756.

My very dear Friend,

GLAD, yea very glad should I have been to have waited upon you at C――. But it seems it was not to be. However, if I should return from Glasgow, God willing, I shall call upon you; if not, in heaven, in heaven we shall meet. God be with you and yours! I am just going off. O these partings! they are cutting. I trust Jesus hath been walking amidst the golden candlesticks. You will hear particulars from others. I have only time to beg the continuance of your prayers, and with hearty love to your yoke-fellow, Mr. C――, and his spouse, to subscribe myself, my very dear friend,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCXLVIII.

To the Reverend Mr. G――.

Edinburgh, September 21, 1756.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

I THANK you most heartily for your kind letter, and for all other tokens of your regard and love. I can only send you a pepper-corn of acknowledgment. My Master, my long-suffering, ever-loving, ever-lovely Master, will pay you all. I hope he hath directed my steps. On Saturday I received a message from our new Governor of Georgia, desiring to see and converse with me, before he embarks. This could not have been done, if I had went to Ireland now. Our Lord orders all things well. O remember me before his throne. To-morrow I leave Edinburgh. Your letter shall be delivered to Mr. R――. Be pleased to give the inclosed to Mr. Scot, to put in his Philadelphia-Packet. I am busy, and yet, alas! I do nothing. Impressions seem to be promising here. Lord, what am I? less than the least of all, but for Christ’s sake, my very dear friend,

Yours indissolubly in the best bonds,

G. W.

LETTER MCXLIX.

To Lady H――n.

London, October 27, 1756.

Ever-honoured Madam,

HOPING that they would find your Ladyship at Bristol, I wrote a few lines not long ago from Leeds. Since that I have been in honest Mr. G―― and Mr. J――’s round, preaching upon the mountains to many thousands. One that was awakened three years ago, is gone to heaven, and desired to be buried upon the spot where she was awakened. The sacrament at Mr. G――’s was most awful, and the Welch night at Leeds exceeding solemn. I would have continued my circuit, but found that preaching so frequently in those cold countries, was bringing on my last year’s disorder. Being therefore grown very prudent, I am come to open our new chapel in Tottenham-Court Road, and in my poor way to recommend the ever-loving, ever-lovely Jesus. Lord, what am I, that thou shouldest suffer me to put a pin in thy tabernacle! O for grace to stand in a trying hour. Something very extraordinary lies before us: “Prepare to meet thy God,” seems now to be the call to all. Blessed be God, his Spirit hath not done striving for us. This, I hope, is a token for good. Never did I know the fields more ready unto harvest, than I have seen them in the North. May I wish your Ladyship joy of what hath happened at the other end of the town. May his Lordship be made a long and public blessing to this sinful nation! If the other elect Ladies are all at Clifton court, I wish you all the blessings of the everlasting gospel. Though utterly unworthy of such an honour, offering my poor pepper-corn of acknowledgment for all your Ladyship’s unmerited kindnesses, I beg leave to subscribe myself, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCL.

To Mrs. C――.

London, October 30, 1756.

Dear Mrs. C――,

I CAN only drop you a few lines. I am just returned from a thousand miles northern circuit, and Mr. Graham is just a going. All your relations are well. The fields have been white ready unto harvest. In about a week, a new building at the other end of the town is to be opened. I expect to see your new Governor every moment. By his ship I hope to send letters to you all. May God bless and prosper you! J―― H――’s relations are well. You will give him all the encouragement you can. I am still for lessening the family as much as possible. My wife wrote lately. I have scarce time to subscribe myself, dear Mrs. C――,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCLI.

To Alderman H――.

London, November 6, 1756.

My dear Friend,

I AM glad you got no more hurt by your late fall from your horse. May the Lord Jesus write the laws of gratitude upon all our hearts! I wish my brother’s sickness may be sanctified to his better part. I know not the case of the poor weavers: I do not love to fish in troubled waters, and yet I fear more and more troubles await us both at home and abroad. O that the walls and street of the New Jerusalem, may be built in troublesome times! He hath said it, who is also able to perform it. I wish I may begin to begin to build in earnest. Do pray for me: I shall never forget you or yours. May this find you on the full stretch for Jesus! He was stretched upon the cross for you and me. Amazing love! Adieu. I must away. Beg Mr. B―― to write if my brother grows worse. I will answer him as soon as possible; but whilst my cold continues, I cannot expect to see you at Gloucester. O for a warm heaven! there you will know how much I am, my very dear Friend,

Yours in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCLII.

To Mr. D――.

London, November 12, 1756.

My dear Mr. D――,

I HAVE just been with your new Governor, who sets out to-morrow. May the Lord of all lords make him a blessing! Upon the receipt of this, do you wait upon his Excellency, and give Him, and whom he pleases to bring with him, an invitation to Bethesda. I know dear Mrs. C―― will make proper provision. I have had no letters for a long season. I have only time to inform you, that we have just opened a new chapel at Tottenham-Court Road, and that I trust the Redeemer’s glory filled it last Sunday. Have you persons enough to exercise before the Governor? Can they receive him under arms? That the Captain of our salvation may make them all good soldiers for himself, is the earnest prayer of, my dear Mr. D――,

Yours, &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCLIII.

To Lady ――.

London, November 17, 1756.

Honoured Madam,

AS I thought it would give your Ladyship satisfaction, I herein inclose the copies of two letters sent from the condemned youth, in whose behalf your Ladyship hath interposed. May the Redeemer crown your endeavours with success! Blessed be his name, we hear of daily instances of his grace! At Long-Acre indeed the word ran, and at Tottenham-Court chapel we have had some glorious earnests of future blessings. Providence, I doubt not, will enable us to pray for it. My constant work now is, preaching about fifteen times a week. This, with a weak appetite, want of rest, and much care lying upon my mind, enfeebles my too, too feeble nature. But the joy of the Lord is my strength. And my greatest grief is, that I can do no more for Him, who hath done and suffered so much for me. I thank your Ladyship for your kind letter and good wishes. Indeed, honoured Madam, you are always remembered at the throne of grace. That your Ladyship’s soul may always prosper, and that you may increase with all the increase of God, is and shall be the earnest prayer of, honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCLIV.

To Mr. H――y.

London, December 9, 1756.

My very dear Friend,

LAST night Mr. M―― informed me, that Mr. C―― shewed him a pamphlet, wrote on purpose to prove the fundamental errors of my printed sermons, and that you had offered to preface it, but he chose you should not. That this is true, I as much believe, as that I am now at Rome. But I wish that my very dear friend may not repent his connection and correspondence with some, when it is too late. This is my comfort, I have delivered my soul. Mr. R―― hath been so kind as to send me the two volumes of Jenks’s Meditations, and desires me to annex my recommendation to yours. I have answered, that it will not be prudent or beneficial to him so to do. I fear they are too large to go off. I hope that my dear friend prospers both in soul and body. Conviction and conversion work go on here. Lord keep us from tares! All is well at Clapham; I have expounded there twice. God hath met us at our new building. I know that you will pray, it may be full of new creatures. My most cordial respects await your mother and sister; my wife joins. With great haste, but much greater love, I subscribe myself, my very dear friend,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCLV.

To Mr. Aaron B――.

London, December 9, 1756.

My very dear Friend,

AS I am informed the Philadelphia packet sails this day, I cannot omit acknowledging the receipt of Mr. P――’s paper: the duplicates came to hand before. A memorial is drawn up by proper persons, and application is to be made for a charter. As yet, every thing promises well. This morning I am going to send P――’s writing to those, who I believe will put it into his Majesty’s hands. The letters mentioned by Mr. B――, about purchasing the land for the Indians, I did not receive, but I shall take the hint in the last, and do what I can. Alas! that is but little. Some books shall be secured for John O――, and some bibles, &c. for the Indian school. I wish John O―― of Long-Island was here, especially if he can preach, and could be spared from his mission for a few months, and his passage paid. I would pay his passage back again, and I hope get something for that which you have in view. At the ensuing fast, it practicable, I intend making a collection. Night and day, our hands are lifted up for dear America. I fear we are to be brought into far greater extremity, both at home and abroad, ere deliverance comes. The Lord reigneth, and blessed be the God of our salvation. I am sorry you have not your degree. It is ready, if testimonials were sent from those that know you. This not being done, it looks as though the character given you on this side the water, was not justly founded. The Lord Jesus direct and bless you! I wish you would write oftener. How glad would I be to see America, but my way is hedged up. We have just opened a new chapel at the other end of the town, and the awakening both in town and country continues. We have many pleasing accounts from various quarters, and more ministers are coming out to preach the gospel. This is refreshing. How does the worthy Governor? I cannot write now, but I pray. Dear Captain G―― is gone: O that my turn was come! Jesus is kind. I am strengthened to preach fourteen times a week, and I trust it is not in vain. You have work enough. That the giver of all strength may support and succeed you more and more, is the earnest prayer of, dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our glorious Head,

G. W.

LETTER MCLVI.

To Mrs. G――.

London, December 15, 1756.

Dear Madam,

WHAT a prayer-hearing, promise-keeping God do we serve! O that I had a heart to bless and praise him! Your kind and opportune contribution for the new chapel, strengthened my faith, and encouraged me (in spite of the opposition of some narrow hearts) to go forwards with it, till it is compleated. Surely the work is of God. Last Sunday there was a wonderful stirring amongst the dry bones; some great people came, and begged they might have a constant seat. An earnest this, I believe, of more good things to come. To me, dear Madam, it is the most promising work the Redeemer ever vouchsafed to employ me in. Lord, what am I? Help me, glorious Emmanuel, to abhor myself in dust and ashes! He will bless you, dear Madam, for what you have done. O that I had a thousand lives to employ in his service! I am much obliged to dear Mrs. B――. Neither she nor you will have reason to repent your zeal on this occasion. It will be much for the Mediator’s glory, and the welfare, I hope, of thousands of souls, to have every thing honourably discharged. I know I shall have your prayers, dear Madam, and I am sure you have mine. O that you may know in whom you have believed! Come, dear Madam, be not discouraged; you know who hath said, “then shall ye know, if ye follow on to know the Lord.” I could enlarge, but it is near six in the morning, and I must away to preach. O that my blessed Master may never turn me out of that divine employ! I hope my most grateful respects and acknowledgments will find acceptance with dear Mrs. B――; and your acceptance of the same will add to the obligations already laid on, dear Madam,

Your most ready servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER MCLVII.

To Mrs. B――.

London, December 30, 1756.

Dear Madam,

GRATITUDE constrains me to send you a few lines. They inform you, that God is doing wonders at the new chapel. Hundreds went away last Sunday morning that could not come in. On Christmas-Day, and last Tuesday night (the first time of burning candles) the power of the Lord was present, both to wound and to heal. A neighbouring Doctor hath baptized the place, calling it “Whitefields’s Soul-trap.”—Just now the following letter came to hand.

Reverend Sir,

A THOUGHT came into my mind last Sunday morning, to go to hear you at the new tabernacle, and to see what sort of a place it was. In one part of your discourse my heart trembled, and the terrors of the Lord came upon me. I then concluded, that I must prepare for hell, and that there was no hope of salvation for me. I take this method, being assured that you will excuse the liberty I take to ask you one question, How I can be convinced that my past sins are to be forgiven? And O, what must I do to be saved! My sins are innumerable. God is just. I cannot think that I have any interest in the Redeemer’s blood. My soul is full of grief. I must conclude. Dear Sir, favour me with a line, which will be greatly acknowledged by,

Your friend,

A. B.

I have answered my new friend, and pray the friend of sinners to make the chapel a soul-trap indeed, to many wandering creatures. Abundance round about, I hear are much struck. O for humility! O for gratitude! O for faith! Wherefore should I doubt?—Surely Jesus will carry me through, and help me to pay the workmen. Accept repeated thanks for the help afforded by your dear Ladies, and depend on having the poor prayers of, dear Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCLVIII.

To the Reverend Mr. M――.

London, January 4, 1757.

Reverend and dear Sir,

JUST now I received and read your kind letter, and hope, God willing, on Friday, to have the pleasure of a personal interview. May our common Lord sanctify it to our mutual edification! Glad should I have been to have known you before. I love the Hanoverians, because I think they love, and would prove faithful to our dear King George. I am sorry for the treatment they have met with, but it is not our province to meddle with politics. Blessed be God for a kingdom that is not of this world, which can never be removed, or so much as shaken.

Blest is faith that trusts Christ’s power,

Blest are saints that wait his hour;

Haste, great conqueror, bring it near;

Let the glorious close appear.

You see, my dear Sir, how free I write. It is because I think you are a true minister of our glorious Emmanuel. Be pleased to remember me when near his throne. Though a stranger, you know my name: I am the chief of sinners, and less than the least of all saints, but for Christ’s sake, reverend and dear Sir,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCLIX.

To Lady H――.

London, January 12, 1757.

Honoured Madam,

WILL your Ladyship be pleased to accept a few hasty lines? They come with hearty wishes, that your Ladyship, and every branch of your honourable family, may have a very happy new year.—This can only be had in Jesus, and therefore I wish, from the very bottom of my heart, that you all may be blessed with all spiritual blessings.—These are blessings indeed. They are solid, they are lasting, commensurate even with eternity itself. I hope we have some daily foretastes of this. Indeed, honoured Madam, a wide door seems to be opening at Tottenham-Court chapel. The word flies like lightning in it; O that it may prove a Bethel, a house of God, a gate of heaven! I believe it will.—As the awakening continues, I have some hopes that we are not to be given up. Alas! alas! We are testing and contesting, while the nation is bleeding to death. We are condemning this and that; but sin, the great mischief-maker, lies unmolested, or rather encouraged by every contending party. Well, the Lord reigns;—and therefore blessed be the God of our salvation.—I hope your honoured sister, and her noble Lord, are well. I sometimes wish that his Lordship was at the helm, but infinite wisdom knows what is best. Happy they who can look beyond time! The christian can; the short-sighted infidel dares not, cannot. But I grow troublesome. I must therefore only add my most grateful acknowledgments, and assure your Ladyship, that I am, honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER ♦MCLX.

To Lady M―― H――.

London, January 13, 1757.

Honoured Madam,

I WISH your Ladyship joy. What a mercy, to be made an instrument in settling a true minister of Jesus Christ! May he be the spiritual father to many souls! Your Ladyship’s unexpected sight of your son, was like life from the dead. What pleasure then must be the consequence of seeing our relations brought home to God! This be your happy lot! The holy spirit seems to be quickening many dead souls here. I am informed, that all are alive without the Cannon-Gate; but such are dead whilst they live. O Scotland! Scotland! Turn us, O good Lord, and so shall we be turned! We had need to fast and pray too.—Your Ladyship, I doubt not, mourns in secret. The glorious Emmanuel will put your tears into his bottle. That your consolations in him may abound evermore, is the earnest prayer of, honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCLXI.

London, February 5, 1757.

Dear Mrs. C――,

I THANK you heartily for your last kind letter, and for all your works of faith and labours of love.—Glad would I be to see America, but the cloud doth not seem to move that way as yet.—The new chapel at the other end of the town is made a Bethel, and the awakening increases day by day. O that it was so at Georgia! Surely the great Shepherd and Bishop of souls will bless you, for taking care of the lambs in that distant wilderness.—Mr. P――’s leaving Bethesda sadly distresses me; but my eyes are upon Him who knows all. I wrote to desire Mr. P―― to continue the oversight of my affairs, till I can come myself. Whatever he and you shall agree to, in respect to Mr. R――, &c. I shall acquiesce in: only I desire that all who are capable may be put out, and the family reduced as low as possible, till the war is over, and the institution out of debt. I find nobody mentions I―― P――s. If I―― P――m goes to the college, cannot he and Mr. D―― be enough for the school? Ere now, G―― W―― I hope is put out.—Lord, remember me and all my various concerns!—God bless and direct you in every step! He will,—he will.—I trust you will find it so in your late determination? Now you are free. Things that seem against us at first, afterwards prove to be designed for us.—What is to become or us here, God only knows.—A year perhaps may determine.—The best sign is, that the awakening continues.—A parcel of the addresses was put up for you, but through mistake not put into the box. All your relations are well. That you may prosper both in body and soul, and be filled with all the fulness of God, is the earnest prayer of, dear Mrs. C――,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCLXII.

To the Reverend Mr. M――.

London, February 17, 1757.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

YOUR kind letter lies before me, for which, be pleased to accept my cordial thanks. I am glad you got safe to Chatham, and heartily pray, that the God of the sea, and the God of the dry land, may be your convoy on the mighty waters. The continuance of your correspondence will be quite agreeable. Who knows but Jesus may bless it to our mutual edification? I want to be stirred up, to begin to begin to do something for him, who hath done and suffered so much for ill and hell-deserving me. Surely, I am a worthless worm, and therefore little moved with whatever judgment an ill-natured, misinformed world may form of me. The great day will discover all. Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly.—O to be an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no guile! Simplicity and godly sincerity is all in all. A want of this, I fear, hath led the Count into all his mistakes. With great regret I speak or write of any people’s weaknesses; but I did and do now think, that divine Providence called me to publish what you mention. The Redeemer gave it his blessing. I do not find that their fopperies are continued, and I hear also that they have discharged many debts. You seem to have right notions of the sermon to which you refer. It certainly speaks of a sinless state, which is not attainable in this life. We are called to be saints, but not angels. Strange, that after so many years, such an error should be propagated!—but so it is. Lord, what is man? Glory be to God, there is a time coming, when sin, root and branch, shall be destroyed: I mean at death. Then an eternal stop will be put to the fountain of corruption, and we shall be sinless indeed.—Till then, O Jesus, do thou continue to wash us in thy blood, and cloathe us with thy compleat and everlasting righteousness; and at the same time, out of a principle of love to thee, do thou help us to follow hard after that holiness, without which no man can see the Lord!—But whither am I going? My very dear Sir, excuse prolixity. I write to you, as to one whom I love in the bowels of Jesus Christ. My most cordial respects await all that love him. My wife joins in sending you the same, with, reverend and very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXIII.

To Lady H――n.

London, March 2, 1757.

Ever-honoured Madam,

A FEW days ago, I received the kind benefaction for the happy convicts. Not doubting of success, I had advanced some guineas, which with what hath been procured from other hands, hath bought both their liberties, and they are provided for on the other side of the water; just now I believe they are under sail. O that he, who I suppose will now receive a pardon, was alike favoured! But not many mighty, not many noble are called. However, some come to hear at Tottenham-Court. S―― the player, makes always one of the auditory, and, as I hear, is much impressed, and brings others with him. I hope this will not find your Ladyship ill of the gout. May the Lord Jesus bear all your sickness, and heal all your infirmities both of body and soul! I am sensibly touched when any thing affects your Ladyship; gratitude constrains to this. What shall I render unto the Lord for all his mercies? I would preach for him, if I could, a hundred times a day. Surely, such a worthless worm was never honoured to speak for the Redeemer before. Your Ladyship will excuse; I must away, and give a little vent to the heart of, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCLXIV.

To the Reverend Mr. B――.

London, March 10, 1757.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

PROVIDENTIALLY, a Lady was at my house when the bearer brought your letter, who perhaps may want just such a servant, within the time mentioned. Thus God provides for those that love him. He is indeed a prayer-hearing, a promise-keeping God. Satan may and will have us, that he may sift us as wheat; but Jesus prays for us; our faith therefore shall not fail. This is my support; this, my very dear Sir, must be yours. Ere long we shall be tempted no more. I am a poor soldier; I want to be discharged. Not from Christ’s service, but from this prison of the flesh. O that I could do something for Jesus whilst here below! my obligations increase. He vouchsafes daily (O amazing love) to own my feeble labours. The word runs and is glorified. That it may run and be glorified more and more, under God, through your instrumentality, is the earnest prayer of, reverend and very dear Sir,

Your affectionate but unworthy brother, in our glorious Head,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXV.

To Lord H――.

London, April 20, 1757.

My Lord,

I MAKE bold to trouble your Lordship with the proposals about the Georgia college; they should have been sent before, but I heard that your Lordship was out of town. On Monday next, my business calls me into the country. If your Lordship should have leisure immediately to run over the memorial, I would call on Saturday morning to know your Lordship’s mind. In the mean while, praying that your Lordship may be a lasting blessing to your country, I subscribe myself,

Your Lordship’s most dutiful, obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXVI.

To the Reverend Mr. T――.

Edinburgh, May 31, 1757.

CANNOT you come here for one day this week? I shall leave Edinburgh on Monday, God willing.—Attendance upon the assembly, and preaching, have engrossed all my time. I can scarce send you this.—Nil mihi rescribas attamen ipse veni.—Adieu! With love more than I express, I am, my dear Mr. T――,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

P. S. Jesus is good to us. My hearty love awaits your whole self and family.—It is near eight at night.

LETTER MCLXVII.

To Mr. ――.

Glasgow, June 9, 1757.

My very dear Friend,

TO me, it is almost an age since I wrote to you last. But at Edinburgh I was so taken up all day, and kept up so late at night, that writing was almost impracticable. Surely my going thither was of God. I came thither the twelfth of May, and left it the sixth of June, and preached just fifty times. To what purpose, the great day will discover. I have reason to believe to very good purpose. Being the time of the general assembly (at which I was much pleased) many ministers attended, perhaps a hundred at a time. Thereby prejudices were removed, and many of their hearts were deeply impressed. About thirty of them, as a token of respect, invited me to a public entertainment. The Lord High Commissioner also invited me to his table, and many persons of credit and religion did the same in a public manner. Thousands and thousands, among whom were a great many of the best rank, daily attended on the word preached, and the longer I staid, the more the congregations and divine influence increased. Twice I preached in my way to Glasgow, and last night opened my campaign here. The cloud seems to move towards Ireland. How the Redeemer vouchsafes to deal with me there, you shall know hereafter. In the mean while, my very dear friend, let me entreat the continuance of your prayers. For I am less than the least of all saints, and unworthy to be employed in the service of so divine a Master. Lord Jesus,

If thou excuse, then work thy will,

By so unfit an instrument;

It will at once thy goodness shew,

And prove thy power omnipotent.

I hope this will find you, and your dear yoke-fellow and daughter, enjoying thriving souls in healthy bodies. I doubt not but you are brightening your crown, and increasing your reward, by doing good for your blessed Master. Ere long, you shall hear him say “Well done.” That will crown all. I can no more, I must away to my throne. My very dear Sir, be pleased to accept ten thousand thanks for all favours, and give me leave (after sending most cordial respects to dear Mrs. S―― and Miss) to subscribe myself, my very dear friend,

Your most affectionate, obliged friend, and very ready servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXVIII.

To Mr. ――.

Dublin, June 30, 1757.

My very dear Sir,

YOUR kind letter, dated the 25th instant, I just now received, for which as well as all other favours be pleased to accept unfeigned thanks.—What to do I cannot well tell.—As I am in the kingdom, it is pity to leave it unvisited.—The door is open, and indeed the poor Methodists want help.—Here in Dublin the congregations are very large, and very much impressed. The Redeemer vouchsafes to give me great freedom in preaching, and arrows of conviction fly and fasten.—One of the Bishops told a nobleman, “He was glad I was come to rouse the people”—The nobleman, with whom I sweetly conversed yesterday, told me this again.—Lord Jesus, do thou (for it is thy doing) rouse all ranks for thy mercy’s sake! I hope Mr. M――n will go on and prosper.—As for Mr. J――s, I think it best for him to keep as he is.—I find he is unsettled, and therefore would be always uneasy.—If Messrs. D――s and D――r can serve alternately in the Summer, by the help of Jesus I will go through the Winter work.—Alas, that so few have the ambition of coming out to the help of the Lord against the mighty. Not one clergyman in all Ireland yet stirred up to come out singularly for God! Pity, Lord, for thy mercy’s sake! I think God will yet appear for the protestant interest.—My rout now is to Athlone, Limerick, Cork, and to return here about July 21.—Whether I shall then go to the North, and to Scotland, or whether I shall come by way of Park-Gate, must be determined hereafter.—I know you will pray, my very dear Sir, that the never-failing Jesus will direct my goings in his way. I would fain be where and what he would have me to be.—I bless him, for making you, my very dear Sir, instrumental in strengthening my weak hands, and earnestly pray, that great may be the reward of you and your dear relations in the kingdom of heaven.—Assure yourselves you or they are never forgotten by, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our glorious Head,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXIX.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Dublin, July 3, 1757.

My very dear Mr. K――,

ACCEPT a few lines from a poor, feeble, but willing pilgrim.—They bring you most amazing news. The infinitely condescending Jesus still vouchsafes to follow the chief of sinners with his unmerited blessing.—In Scotland, his almighty arm was most powerfully revealed;—and, here in Dublin, many have begun to say, “What shall we do to be saved.”—Congregations are large, and very much impressed indeed.—A spirit of conviction and consolation seems to be sent forth.—All sorts attend, and all sorts seem to be affected.—I should be glad to come to London, but cannot in confidence as yet.—Not one minister either in the church or among the dissenters in this kingdom, as far as I can hear, appears boldly for God, even a God in Christ. To-morrow therefore I purpose to set out for Athlone, Limerick, and Cork. God only knows, after that, where will be the next remove.—Perhaps to London, perhaps to the North of Ireland, which I hear lies open for the gospel.—Winter must be the London harvest.—O for more labourers who will account the work itself the best wages! God will bless you and yours, for strengthening my hands. I send you and Mrs. K――n my hearty love, and earnestly pray the Lord of all Lords to bless you. Next post, or soon after in my circuit, I hope to write to dear Mr. and Mrs. J――. God forbid that I should forget my old friends.—I pray for, though I cannot write to them.—I am glad to find that dear Mr. G―― is safe returned.—Pray remember me to him, and to all enquiring friends in the kindest manner, and assure them of being remembered at the throne of grace, by, very dear Mr. and Mrs. K――,

Your most obliged, affectionate friend, and ready servant in our common Lord,

G. W.

July 5th.

Since writing the above, I have been in the wars.—But blessed be God am pretty well recovered, and going on my way rejoicing.—Pray hard.

LETTER MCLXX.

To Mr. ――.

Dublin, July 9, 1757.

My dear Friend,

MANY attacks have I had from Satan’s children, but yesterday, you would have thought he had been permitted to have given me an effectual parting blow. You have heard of my being in Ireland, and of my preaching daily to large and very affected auditories, in Mr. W――’s spacious room. When here last, I preached in a more confined place in the week days, and once or twice ventured out to Oxminton-Green, a large place like Moorfields, situated very near the barracks, where the Ormond and Liberty, that is, high and low party boys, generally assemble every Sunday, to fight with each other. The congregations then were very numerous, the word seemed to come with power; and no noise or disturbance ensued. This encouraged me to give notice, that I would preach there again last Sunday afternoon. I went through the barracks, the door of which opens into the green, and pitched my tent near the barrack walls, not doubting of the protection, or at least interposition of the officers and soldiery, if there should be occasion. But how vain is the help of man! Vast was the multitude that attended; we sang, prayed, and preached, without much molestation; only now and then a few stones and clods of dirt were thrown at me. It being war time, as is my usual practice, I exhorted my hearers not only to fear God, but to honour the best of kings, and after sermon I prayed for success to the Prusian arms. All being over, I thought to return home the way I came; but to my great surprize access was denied, so that I had to go near half a mile from one end of the green to the other, through hundreds and hundreds of papists, &c. Finding me unattended, (for a soldier and four methodist preachers, who came with me, had forsook me and fled) I was left to their mercy; but their mercy, as you may easily guess, was perfect cruelty. Vollies of hard stones came from all quarters, and every step I took, a fresh stone struck, and made me reel backwards and forwards, till I was almost breathless, and all over a gore of blood. My strong beaver hat served me as it were for a scull cap for a while; but at last that was knocked off, and my head left quite defenceless. I received many blows and wounds; one was particularly large and near my temples. I thought of Stephen, and as I believed that I received more blows, I was in great hopes that like him I should be dispatched, and go off in this bloody triumph to the immediate presence of my master. But providentially, a minister’s house lay next door to the green; with great difficulty I staggered to the door, which was kindly opened to, and shut upon me. Some of the mob in the mean time having broke part of the boards of the pulpit into large splinters, they beat and wounded my servant grievously in his head and arms, and then came and drove him from the door. For a while I continued speechless, panting for and expelling every breath to be my last; two or three of the hearers, my friends, by some means or other got admission, and kindly with weeping eyes washed my bloody wounds, and gave me something to smell to and to drink. I gradually revived, but soon found the lady of the house desired my absence, for fear the house should be pulled down. What to do, I knew not, being near two miles from Mr. W――’s place; some advised one thing, and some another. At length, a carpenter, one of the friends that came in, offered me his wig and coat, that I might go off in disguise. I accepted of, and put them on, but was soon ashamed of not trusting my master to secure me in my proper habit, and threw them off with disdain. I determined to go out (since I found my presence was so troublesome) in my proper habit; immediately deliverance came. A methodist preacher, with two friends, brought a coach; I leaped into it, and rid in gospel triumph through the oaths, curses, and imprecations of whole streets of papists unhurt, though threatened every step of the ground. None but those who were spectators of the scene, can form an idea of the affection with which I was received by the weeping, mourning, but now joyful methodists. A christian surgeon was ready to dress our wounds, which being done, I went into the preaching place, and after giving a word of exhortation, join’d in a hymn of praise and thanksgiving, to him who makes our extremity his opportunity, who stills the noise of the waves, and the madness of the most malignant people. The next morning I set out for port Arlington, and left my persecutors to his mercy, who out of persecutors hath often made preachers. That I may be thus revenged of them, is the hearty prayer of,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXI.

To Mr. I――.

Cork, July 15, 1757.

My very dear Mr. I――,

ACCEPT a few loving lines, as a token that you and yours are not entirely forgotten by me. They leave me, earnestly desirous to know what path the God whom I serve would have me to take. Every where (O amazing condescension!) the glorious Emmanuel so smiles upon my feeble labours, that it is hard to get off. At Port Arlington, Athlone, Limerick, and in this place, the word hath run and been glorified. Arrows of conviction seem to fly, and the cup of many hath been made to run over. I hope you have had some refreshings from the presence of the Lord. Nothing else can carry us comfortably through the howling wilderness of this troublesome life. I have met with some hard blows from the Dublin rabble. But blessed be God, they have not destroyed me. Perhaps I am to see London before my great change comes. And who knows, but we may enjoy our Peniels and Bethels there again? Troublous times seem to be approaching. God hide us all under the shadow of his almighty wings! When you see dear Mr. W――, pray remember me to him and his in the kindest manner, as likewise to Mr. and Mrs. W――. I think of, and pray for you, and all my dear friends, though preaching and travelling prevents my writing. O that none of us may be parted in another world! Jesus alone can keep us by his almighty power. To his tender and never-failing mercy do I most earnestly commit you, and earnestly intreat the continuance of your prayers in behalf of, my very dear friend,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXII.

To the Reverend Mr. G――.

Wednesbury, Staffordshire, August 7, 1757.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

THOUGH Mr. Hopper promised to write you an ♦historical, letter as last Thursday from Dublin, yet I cannot help dropping you a few lines from this place. Blessed be God, we had a passage, and last night we had a pleasant season. At Athlone, Limerick, Cork, and especially at Dublin, where I preached near fifty times, we had Cambuslang seasons. With the utmost difficulty I came away. O these partings! The blows I received some time ago, were like to send me, where all partings would have been over. But I find we are immortal till our work is done. Lord Jesus, help me to begin in earnest! My cordial love awaits my host and hostess. Be pleased to desire them to send my things by the first opportunity, directed to Mr. David Brown, at the Orphan-hospital, Edinburgh.—This morning our Lord hath met us.—I am to preach twice more.—Ere long we shall praise for ever. I hope dear Mr. N――’s son is better. I commend your whole self, and all dear friends, to his never-failing mercy, and entreat you never to forget, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in the best bonds,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXIII.

To Mrs. C――.

London, August 26, 1757.

Dear Mrs. C――,

I THINK myself quite happy, in finding that you are satisfied in your present situation.—I have no doubt of your being called to do it by Bethesda’s God, and heartily pray that you may be amply rewarded by Him.—I had rather have you preside over the orphan family, than any woman I know of in the world. I would gladly indulge Mr. B――, but though I have sent again and again, I cannot find that his wife hath the least inclination to come over; as this is the case, and she is provided for, I wish he could be easy. Mr. P―― and you may agree, as to the terms of his continuance at Bethesda. Mr. D―― seems fixed, and I have written to Mr. P――, to let John H――y have overseers wages for the two last years, and find himself; but perhaps it may be best not to give up the indentures.—As he is faithful, and the plantation flourishes, I would not part with him. I do not love changes. Sometimes I wish for wings to fly over; but providence detains me here. I fear a dreadful storm is at hand. Lord Jesus, be thou our refuge! At Dublin I was like to be sent beyond the reach of storms. But I find we are immortal till our work is done. A most blessed influence attended the word in various parts of Ireland, and here at London the prospect is more and more promising. We expect some important news from America. As to outward things, all is gloomy. Jesus can dispel every cloud. I hope Bethesda will be kept in peace. I am glad the Governor hath been to visit the house. May God make him a blessing to the colony! My kinsman hath met with an early trial. May the Lord sanctify it! I am glad G―― W―― is put out, and that you have sent the children; I pity them, but they must blame their parents. O ingratitude! I wish you would now and then mention B―― W――, and let me know how the English children are disposed of. I would fain have a list of black and white from time to time. Blessed be God for the increase of the negroes. I intirely approve of reducing the number of orphans as low as possible; and I am determined to take in no more than the plantation will maintain, till I can buy more negroes. Never was I so well satisfied with my assistants as now. God bless you! God bless you! My tender love and respects attend you all. I would have Joseph P――n sent to the college. I am glad Mrs. F―― is married. Continue to pray for me, and depend on hearing as often as possible from, dear Mrs. C――,

Your affectionate, obliged friend, and ready servant in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXIV.

To Mr. H――.

Exeter, September 28, 1757.

My very dear Sir,

JUST this moment I had the pleasure of receiving your very kind letter, and have but just time, before the post goes out, to return you my most hearty thanks. Blessed be God, I can send you good news from Plymouth.—The scene was like that of Bristol; only more extraordinary, to see officers, ♦soldiers, sailors, and the dock-men, attending with the utmost solemnity upon the word preached. Arrows of conviction fled and fastened, and I left all God’s people upon the wing for heaven. Blessed be the Lord Jesus for ordering me the lot of a cast-out!

For this let men revile my name,

I’d shun no cross, I’d fear no shame;

All hail reproach!

I am glad that Mr. M――n and V――n returned safe. May an effectual door be opened for both! If so, they will have many adversaries. Will my dear Mr. H―― tell Mr. P――, that I expect every thing to be compleated by the first Sunday in October? If the weather should alter I may be in town; if not, I may range further.—This spiritual hunting is delightful sport, when the heart is in the work. I expect to hear of a blacker cloud in America, but I am glad the expedition was diverted. Our enemies may triumph for a while; Christ can soon put a hook in the leviathan’s jaws.

Thoughts are vain against the Lord,

All subserves his sov’reign word;

Wheels encircling wheels must run,

Each in course to bring it on.

Happy for you, my dear Sir, that have fled to this God for refuge. The more you know of Him, the more vilely you will think of yourself. God bless you and your dear relations. I must conclude, or the letter cannot go. In great haste, but far greater love and respect, I subscribe myself, very dear Sir,

Yours, &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXV.

To Mr. K――n.

Bristol, October 4, 1757.

My very dear Mr. K――n,

HAD you encouragement enough last journey, to induce you and yours to take another trip? My wife informs me so; she hath the rout. I expect a line from her at Gloucester, to inform me of your determination. Whatever it be, may it be for the glory of our common Lord! I hope some souls that before were strangers to him, have begun to know him since we parted last. We have had pleasant seasons. Lord, what am I! God give us a warm winter! O how soon does the summer fly away! Lord Jesus, pardon and quicken me, for thy mercy’s sake! Adieu. I must away. My hearty love awaits your whole self, and all enquiring friends. In great haste, I subscribe myself, my very dear Mr. K――,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXVI.

To the Reverend Mr. G――.

London, October 16, 1757.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

I THANK you for your sympathizing letter sent to Ireland. The friend of sinners stood by me, or I had been stoned to death. They were thrown at me, not for speaking against the Papists in particular, but for exciting all ranks to be faithful to King Jesus, and to our dear sovereign King George, for his great name’s sake. Lord, what am I, that I should be honoured to suffer any degree of pain or shame in such a cause? Time will not permit me to descend to more particulars. A young man, who will bring you soon a few lines from me, can tell you the whole affair. He is a Methodist, and is coming from Dublin, (and from a Bishop’s family) to study at Glasgow. I know you will receive him gladly. O that God may qualify, and send forth thousands to blow the trumpet in Zion! Seven gospel ministers were together at Bristol, when the counsellor preached. A lawyer hath lately entered likewise into orders, and I humbly hope the blessed Jesus will not give us up. Both at home and abroad we are in great danger. But the Lord lives, and will live and reign for ever. The awakenings in New-Jersey, &c. are tokens for good. Lord, prepare us for whatever thou hast prepared for us! We have had blessed seasons for these six weeks last past, at Plymouth, Exeter, Bristol, Gloucester, and Gloucestershire. This comes from my winter quarters. You will pray, that Jesus may be with us. My most cordial respects and thanks await your whole self, and all dear friends who are so kind as to enquire after, my very dear Sir,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXVII.

To Lady H――.

London, October 21, 1757.

Ever-honoured Madam,

I BURNT, but I believe I shall never forget the contents of, your Ladyship’s letter. Who but the Redeemer himself, can possibly describe the yearnings of such a tender parent’s heart? Surely your Ladyship is called to cut off a right hand, and pluck out a right eye; “But it is the Lord, let him do what seemeth him good,” This was the language of Eli, whose sons were sinners before the Lord exceedingly. This hath often been the case of the best of people, and the greatest favourites of heaven; but none knows the bitterness of such a cup, but those who are called to drink it. If not sweetened with a sense of the love and mercy of God in Christ, who could abide it? O what physic, what strong physic do our strong affections oblige our heavenly Father to give us! What pruning knives do these luxuriant branches require, in order to preserve the fruit and delicacy of the vine. Blessed be God, there is a time coming, when these mysterious dignified providences shall be explained. I am glad Mr. L―― is with your Ladyship: he has a friendly heart. May the Lord Jesus raise up your Ladyship many comforters! Above all, may he come himself. He will, he will. Mr. H―― ask’d most kindly after your Ladyship. On Thursday Sir John M――, I am told, was at chapel, and many others. The prospect brightens at that end of the town. O for warm winter quarters! O that I could bear part of your Ladyship’s heavy load! But I can only in my feeble way bear it on my heart, before him who came to heal our sicknesses and bear our infirmities. That your Ladyship may come out of these fiery trials, purged and purified like the brightest gold, is the earnest prayer of, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXVIII.

To Mrs. C――.

London, October 25, 1757.

My dear Mrs. C――,

I FIND by your last to your brother James, that you was in jeopardy. But I trust He that once drove away the Spaniards, will also preserve you and the rest of my dear family from a French invasion. God give you strength and courage! He will. Every thing seems to be in a critical situation. God knows the event.

Blest is faith that trusts Christ’s pow’r,

Blest are saints that wait His hour.

In the midst of all, the work goes on here. In Dublin I was like to be stoned to heaven: but I am on earth yet. We had glorious seasons both in Scotland and Ireland. O that the cloud pointed to America! But the Redeemer’s time is the best. He will bless you for taking care of his family in the wilderness. I wish it had been reduced more by the dismission of the R――s and B――l. But perhaps God may over rule all for the childrens future good. I hear that R―― is in a French prison; God give to him and his true repentance! They have acted an ungrateful part; but thus our Lord was used; and the servant must be as his Lord. The judgment-day will clear all. I wish Mr. B―― may be easy where he is. Mr. P―― may agree upon terms with him, and with I―― H――. I love old friends and servants, and desire to bless God that my family hath got such a governess. Pray let me know if you want any apparel, &c. I shall be quite concerned if you abridge yourself of any thing. I cannot reward you: but the God whom I desire to serve, can and will. To his tender and never-failing mercy do I most humbly commit you, and beg the continuance of your prayers in behalf of, my dear Mrs. C――,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXIX.

To Governor E――.

London, October 26, 1757.

Honoured Sir,

I AM glad to hear from my nephew and other hands, that your Excellency’s administration is so universally approved of. I pray God to make you a lasting blessing to that colony, which hath long wanted the blessing of an active, skilful and disinterested Governor. I thank your Excellency for honouring Bethesda with your company. Lord Hallifax informed me, that you would send him your sentiments concerning its being enlarged into a college. I have drawn out my proposals, and have delivered them to his Lordship; but the uncertainty of the times prevents my pushing that affair. However, Georgia’s welfare lies much on my heart; and it is my full design, if providence should open a way, and I am assured of meeting with proper encouragement, (which I make no doubt of) to serve that colony, and pay it another visit. In the mean while, my heart’s desire and prayer to God is and shall be, that you may have the honour and comfort of making the people, over whom divine providence hath called you to preside, happy and prosperous. I must not longer, dear Sir, detain you from the public, and shall therefore only beg your acceptance of this, as a token of respect, from, honoured Sir,

Your Excellency’s most obliged humble servant,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXX.

To J―― B――, Esq.

London, October 26, 1757.

My dear Friend,

I AM quite glad to hear, that you have met with encouragement to return again to poor Georgia, and that my nephew serves under you. I humbly hope that colony is not to be given over into the enemies hands; but God only knows what is before us. The cloud at present looks black; but it is always darkest before break of day. Our extremity may yet be God’s opportunity to help and deliver us. In the midst of all, the work of God goes on among us. At both ends of the town we have blessed seasons. In Scotland and Ireland the word ran and was glorified. Who knows but we may meet once more in Georgia. Blessed be God for a well-grounded hope of meeting in heaven! My hearty love awaits all who are travelling thither, and are so kind as to enquire after, my dear friend,

Yours &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXXI.

To the Reverend Mr. M――.

London, November 3, 1757.

YOUR kind letter was very acceptable. Ere now, I trust, the Redeemer hath given you the prospect of the barren wilderness being turned in a fruitful field. Never fear; Jesus will delight to honour you. Every clergyman’s name is Legion. Two more are lately ordained.

Satan letts and men object,

Yet the thing they thwart, effect.

Thoughts are vain against the Lord,

All subserves his standing word;

Wheels encircling wheels must run,

Each in course to bring it on.

You need not remind me of praying for the noble pair: surely they are not to be prisoners another Winter. The kingdom of God suffereth violence, and really if we would take it by force, we must do violence to our softest passions, and be content to be esteemed unkind by those whose idols we once were. This is hard work; but, Abba, Father, all things are possible with thee! Blessed be God for putting it into your heart to ask the pulpit for a week-day sermon. Are we not commanded to be instant in season and out of season? If dear Mrs. M―― will take my word for it, I will be answerable for your health. The joy resulting from doing good, will be a continual feast. God knows how long our time of working may last. This order undoes us. As affairs now stand, we must be disorderly or useless. O for more labourers. I am told thousands went away last Sunday evening from Tottenham-Court, for want of room. Every day produces fresh accounts of good being done, and at this end of the town the word runs and is glorified more and more. Last Friday we had a most solemn fast: I preached thrice; thousands attended, and I humbly hope our prayers entered the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. More bad news from America about our fleet: God humble and reform us, for his infinite mercy’s sake! Go on, my dear Sir, and tell a sinful nation, that sin and unbelief is the accursed thing which prevents success. Thus at least we shall deliver our own souls, and be free from the blood of all men. But I forget: I suppose you are preparing for the pulpit: I dare not detain you. My best respects await Mrs. M――: your mother is well. That you may return to London in all the fulness of the blessings of the gospel of Christ, is and shall be the prayer of, dear Sir,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXXII.

To Mr. O――.

London, November 12, 1757.

My dear Mr. O――,

I THANK you very kindly for visiting Bethesda family, and for administering the Lord’s-supper. I am glad to hear that the Master of the feast was present. Ere long I hope we shall be called to the marriage-feast of the supper of the Lamb in heaven. God only knows what awaits us in our journey thither. I hope poor Georgia will be preserved. I trust the Lord of all lords hath said, “Destroy it not, for there is a blessing in it.” We are in equal jeopardy. Jesus is our common refuge. Conviction and conversion work goes on amongst us. But I long to see America once more. O that I may never cease itinerating, till I sit down in heaven. My hearty love awaits all that are bound thither. Hoping ere long to hear good news from you and yours, I haste to subscribe myself, my dear Mr. O――,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXXIII.

To Mr. D――.

London, November 12, 1757.

My dear Mr. D――,

I AM glad you have received my letter. I know not that I have one of yours left unanswered. Blessed be God, for causing Bethesda to prosper. May it do so in every sense more and more! I hope you will be preserved from the hands both of temporal and spiritual enemies. God prepare us for all events! Pray let me know the names of all the children. I wish they could be reduced this war time to the number of fifteen; and I wish my nephew was not so hasty; and that the persons you mention were (spiritually) shot through the heart. Many here seem to be wounded in that manner. At Tottenham-Court chapel, as well as the Tabernacle, the word runs and is glorified. I am glad you have the ordinance now and then. That the God of ordinances may bless you all evermore, is the earnest prayer of, my dear Mr. D――,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

P. S. Pray be particular in the account of the family. The Lord Jesus smiles upon us here. He can, and I trust will preserve you from French, Spaniards, and every hurtful foe. This is my constant prayer.

LETTER MCLXXXIV.

To Mr. R――.

London, November 17, 1757.

Dear Sir,

YOUR letter to Mr. D―― gave me great satisfaction. The contents, no doubt, made angels to rejoice in heaven, and why not us embodied spirits here on earth. So many called out of one family, is a peculiar mercy. Blessed are the eyes that see the things which you see, and the ears that hear the things you hear. Grace, mercy, and peace be multiplied upon you all! Who knows but we may see each other on this side eternity? I am wishing every day for wings to fly to my dear America once more; but at present the way seems to be hedged up. A fresh work is breaking out here, and the Redeemer seems to be manifesting his glory in many souls. This, with what has been done on your side the water, may give us some hopes, that though the enemy may be permitted to break in like a flood, yet the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him. The death of Governor B―― and President Burr, are dark providences: but Jesus lives and reigns. I thank you and yours most heartily for your kind invitation: God willing, I will accept it whenever I come over. Lord, hasten the time, if it be thy blessed will! Be pleased to remember me in the kindest manner to all enquiring friends. I entreat the continuance of your prayers in behalf of, my dear Sir,

Yours in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXXV.

To Mr. S――.

London, November 17, 1757.

My dear Mr. S――,

I AM a letter in your debt: I should be glad to answer your last in person. The attraction towards America is as strong as ever, but at present I am stationed here. The word runs and is glorified. I fear the deaths of the Governor and President will hurt New-Jersey college: but Jesus lives and reigns. When will my turn come to live and reign with him for evermore! Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly! If young P―― should be sent from the Orphan-house to your college, be pleased to furnish him with plain necessaries. I am informed he is a promising youth. Lord, raise up Elisha’s in the room of ascended Elijah! The residue of the Spirit is in his hands. The late effusion was preparatory to your present trials. God make us ready for all events. Excuse great haste; I write in greater love, as being, my dear friend,

Yours most affectionately in our glorious Head,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXXVI.

To Mr. M――.

London, November 26, 1757.

My very dear Sir,

I AM very glad you have been so providentially detained at Thetford, and that your bow abode in such full strength. The Lord help you to give a good farewel stroke to-morrow! My poor feeble labours almost brought me to the grave this last week; but preaching yesterday three times on account of the Prussians late success, hath somewhat recovered me. It was a high day; thousands and thousands attended. Where the carcase is, there the eagles will gather together. The chapel is made a Bethel indeed. I am glad you are coming to see. Spiritual routs are blessed entertainments. I must prepare for my throne. It is near five in the evening, and to-morrow I am to preach thrice. Mr. Jon―― said he would write this post. I was glad to hear by Mr. D――, that the noble pair were growing. That you all may increase with all the increase of God, is the earnest prayer of, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our glorious Head,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXXVII.

To Mrs. B――.

London, December 14, 1757.

Dear Madam,

THE event only can prove, whether what I am going to mention, is of God. Blessed be his holy name, by new-year’s day I hope we shall be able to discharge our chapel debts. Every day proves more and more that it was built for the glory of Jesus Christ, and the welfare of many precious and immortal souls. But my attendance on that, and the Tabernacle too, with a weak body, outward cares, and inward trials, have frequently brought me of late to the apprehensions of being near my wished-for port; but I am afraid I must keep out at sea some time longer. However, I am brought to the short allowance of preaching but once a day, and thrice on a Sunday. O that this feeble carcase could hold out more for God! I want to begin to begin to do something for God. I shall be glad if he is pleased to bring our present design to a prosperous issue. You must know then, dear Madam, that round the chapel there is a most beautiful spot of ground, and some good folks have purposed erecting alms-houses on each side, for some godly widows. I have a plan for twelve. The whole expence will be four hundred pounds: we have got one hundred. The widows are to have half-a-crown a week. The sacrament money, which will more than do, is to be devoted to this purpose. Thus will many godly widows be provided for, and a standing monument left, that the Methodists were not against good works. I beg you’ll mention this to good Lady C―― and Mrs. G――; for I would not have it public till the sum is raised, and we are sure of effecting the thing. If I did not know, dear Madam, your benevolent, disinterested heart, I should not thus make free. Be pleased to excuse, if you do not approve the motion. I only mention it, because I believe such a thing would much promote the glory of God. I leave this and all with him. I commit you and good Lady C―― to his protection, and beg a continued remembrance in your prayers, in behalf of, dear Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXXVIII.

To Doctor S――.

London, December 15, 1757.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

IF yet in this dying world, be pleased to accept a few grateful lines, from one who highly esteems you for the sake of our common Lord. Thousands can witness how often I have prayed for you in public, and the great day will discover how earnestly your lingering case hath been mentioned in my poor addresses to our God in private. Surely, in a literal sense, reverend Sir, you are called to die daily. But I trust and believe, the more the outward man decayeth, you will be strengthened so much the more in the inward man. He that hath loved you, will love you to the end; he that hath honoured you to be so useful to church and state, will not leave you in the latter stages of your road. A radiant crown awaits you. God, the righteous judge, will give it you in that day. O gloriam! quantum & qualem! O that I could leap my seventy years. But I forget I am writing to a sick friend. Pardon me, dear Sir, it being only a pepper-corn of acknowledgment for all kind offices done in the behalf of, reverend and very dear Sir,

Your most obliged, affectionate, sympathizing friend, and ready servant in Jesus Christ,

G. W.

LETTER MCLXXXIX.

To Lady H――.

London, December 15, 1757.

Ever-honoured Madam,

I WISH your Ladyship joy of being for once so long alone: and why? because I am persuaded your Ladyship is never less alone, than at such seasons. Then the Father is in a particular manner with his dear children: and though they seem in themselves to be like pelicans in the wilderness, yet he is near at hand to hear their cry, and to bottle up every tear: he that seeth in secret, will ere long reward your Ladyship openly. O how are your Ladyship’s children indebted to you, for your more than maternal tenderness! What a comfort is it, ever-honoured Madam, that Jesus Christ is to come, and to be our judge! O that he would come quickly! Why does he delay? I was near port, and am now put out to sea again. O that it may be to pilot in some more dear souls! The work seems but to be beginning. At Tottenham-Court the word runs and is glorified. By new-year’s day I hope the debt will be discharged. Several have proposed building some alms-houses for godly widows, on each side the chapel. I have a plan for twelve. The whole expence will be four hundred pounds: we have got a prospect of two. I purpose allowing each widow half-a-crown a week. The sacrament money will more than do. The ground is most commodious, and near the high road. If effected, I think it must bring glory to God, and be a standing monument that we are not against good works. I only mention it to your Ladyship. May that God, whom I desire to serve in the gospel of his dear Son, direct and bless us in this and every thing we undertake for his glory. But I fear I am detaining your Ladyship too long. O that I could offer any thing adequate to your Ladyship’s repeated kindnesses to such a worthless worm! My poor prayers and unfeigned sympathy, is all the testimony I can give of my being, ever-honoured Madam,

Your most dutiful, obliged, and very ready servant in our compassionate High-priest,

G. W.

LETTER MCXC.

To Lady G―― H――.

London, December 15, 1757.

Honoured Madam,

HAVING lately heard of your Ladyship’s being returned to Bath, I cannot help wishing your Ladyship joy of Sir Charles’s most agreeable marriage. May your Ladyship’s present joy be consummated, in seeing them and all your honourable relations sitting down together at the marriage-feast of the supper of the Lamb. I have had frequent prospects of this, since I saw your Ladyship. Often do I groan in this earthly tabernacle. I long to be cloathed with my house from heaven. O that the great God may vouchsafe to improve me, till he is pleased to call me to my wished-for rest. Hitherto he owns my feeble labours. The work in London seems to be but as it were beginning. We live in troublesome times; I trust the streets of the spiritual Jerusalem will be built in them. Happy they who have fled to Jesus Christ for refuge: they have a peace that the world cannot give. O that the pleasure-taking, trifling flatterer knew what it was! He would no longer feel such an empty void, such a dreadful chasm in the heart which nothing but the presence of God can fill. But I forget myself. I shall tire your Ladyship; besides I must drop a few lines to good Lady H――n; she is in the furnace. When she is tried, her God will bring her forth like gold. But I must detain your Ladyship no longer, than while I add my dutiful respects to your Ladyship’s daughters, and beg your Ladyship’s acceptance of the same from, honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER MCXCI.

To the Reverend Mr. T――.

London, January 12, 1758.

My very dear Friend,

YOUR kind letter puzzles me. As the case is so very peculiar, I think you cannot be too particular in writing down what you have been an eye and ear witness to. I think that the calling some ministers together for the ends proposed, is the best method that can be taken. Where two or three are gathered together, and are agreed touching the thing they shall ask, our Lord hath promised it shall be given to them. I shall be glad to hear of their success. Ah, my dear man, little do we think, when we first set out, what trials we shall meet with ere we arrive at our journey’s end. I find more and more, that I am a mere novice in the divine life, and have scarce begun to begin to learn my A B C in the school of Christ. But by the grace of God I am what I am. He hath helped out of six, and will also help out of seven troubles. I find you have heard of the Irish expedition. Lord, what am I, that I should be counted worthy to suffer shame for thy great name’s sake! A more effectual door than ever seems to be opening in this metropolis. A counsellor, lately ordained, turns out a Boanerges. Thousands and thousands flock to hear the everlasting gospel. The new chapel, where I now write, turns out quite well. The Lord Jesus hath made it a gate of heaven to many souls. This, with the signal deliverances lately vouchsafed the protestant arms, makes me hope that our extremity will yet be God’s opportunity to help and deliver us. Let us wrestle in prayer for each other. O that the Lord may abundantly bless both you and yours! Accept cordial love from me and mine. We are neither of us likely to put into harbour yet. The voyage seems to me very long. But I find we are immortal till our work is done. That we all may at last enter port with a full gale, is the hearty prayer of, my very dear friend,

Yours most affectionately in our compassionate High-priest,

G. W.

LETTER MCXCII.

To Mrs. S――.

London, January 17, 1758.

Dear Madam,

I WISH you joy of the happy breach made in, or rather happy addition made to your dear family. I thought I should never see it in the same circumstances any more. You may chearfully let Rebekah go. I trust she hath met with an Isaac. May they love one another as Christ and the church! The Lord now make you to laugh! I hope your latter end will greatly increase. I send the surviving ones my most cordial love; and praying that you may have more and more comfort in every one of them, I subscribe myself, dear Madam,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCXCIII.

To Mr. K――.

London, January 17, 1758.

My very dear Timothy,

YOU will deliver the enclosed. I am glad to write a few lines on such an occasion. God grant that the remaining dear single ones may be as well disposed of! I bless the Lord that you are enabled to preach at all. I often think of and sympathize with you. Lord, help me! What an impatient creature should I be, was I to be visited in that manner! But we know who hath promised, “that as our day is, so shall our strength be.” Mrs. Pearce is now out of the state of trial, and I am to bury one of the same name next Thursday. Both, I believe, are gone to heaven. Lord Jesus, when will my turn come? What can reconcile us to a longer stay on earth, but the prospect of seeing his kingdom advanced? It is very promising at London. Mr. M――n is a Boanerges. The chapel is made a Bethel. Blessed be God, all is paid. I hope to be with you in the Spring. Adieu. The Lord bless and comfort you! My wife is poorly, but joins in hearty love to your whole self, and all enquiring friends, with, my very dear man,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCXCIV.

To Miss G――, at Clifton.

London, February 3, 1758.

Dear Madam,

I WAS glad, after so long a silence, to receive a line from Clifton, where I find by report there is like to be a total revolution. Your two worthy friends I have neither seen nor heard from; and good Lady H――n I have not visited, because I believe her Ladyship desired to be entirely private. I suppose she will now be soon in town. God comfort her under all her trials, and sanctify new creature-partings and disappointments to your further proficiency, dear Madam, in the divine life. There is a needs-be for all this. God help you to sing,

―――― O happy rod,

That brought me nearer to my God.

I have been in hopes of being with him. But I cannot go, though at present reduced to the short allowance of preaching once a day, except thrice on a Sunday, At both ends of the town, the word runs and is glorified. The champions in the church go on like sons of thunder. I am to be at Clapham this evening: Mr. V―― will gladly embrace the first opportunity. May it be a Bethel! Bristol, in all probability, will be my first Spring excursion. O that I may begin to begin to spring for my God! I beg, dear Madam, the continuance of your prayers, as being, dear Madam,

Your most obliged and ready servant in our glorious High-priest,

G. W.

LETTER MCXCV.

To Mrs. B―― B――, at Bath.

London, February 3, 1758.