LETTERS. (continued 7)

Yours, &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXIII.

To Mrs. W――.

Bristol, May 4, 1762.

Dear Mrs. W――,

I THANK you heartily for your kind letter, and desire to bless the Lord of all lords for the good news it contains. If the foot of pride doth not come against those that speak for Jesus, all will be well. I see it is always darkest before break of day. O that we could always remember that blessed promise, “At evening-tide it shall be light.” The archers have of late shot sorely at me and grieved me. Job’s friends were his greatest trials, when God’s hand pressed his body sore. So it hath been with me. But if we are brought out when tried like gold, we shall only lose our dross. O that this may be my happy case! Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief! Blessed be his name for a little revival in my bondage! For these three weeks past, I have been enabled to preach four or five times. Not once without a special blessing. Join with me in crying, Grace, grace! But my body still continues weak. O blessed prospect of its being glorified by and by! Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly! Continue to pray for me. Remember me most heartily to all, as being, dear Mrs. W――,

Their and your most ready servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXIV.

To Mrs. C――.

Bristol, May 4, 1762.

Dear Mrs. C――,

YOUR kind letter came to hand a few days ago. The convoy being driven back, gives me an opportunity of returning you hearty thanks. Mr. R――’s draught will lie hard upon me; but I will endeavour to get it paid. I am glad A――w and G――r are put out. It would have saved me pounds to have had it done long ago. As it is war time, nobody can blame you for lessening the family to the utmost. The intended change at Ephrata pleaseth me much. I see if we will wait, Providence will open for us some way or another. O that the door was open for my coming over! Perhaps it may be ere the Summer is over. Grant it, O God, for Jesus Christ’s sake! I have sometimes the hopes of being braced up again for a little future service. With some difficulty I preach four or five times a week; but you would scarce know me, I am so swoln with wind, and so corpulent. Blessed be God for the prospect of a glorious resurrection! For the present, adieu. I fear the ship will be gone. God bless you all. Pray do you and Mr. D―― be particular in your accounts. Hearty love to Mrs. P――l: God comfort her. You will shew this to Mr. D――. I must add no more, but hearty love and ten thousand thanks from, my dear friends,

Yours, &c. &c. in our glorious Head,

G. W.

♦LETTER MCCLXV.

To Mr. S―― S――.

Rodborough, May 21, 1762.

My very dear Friend,

THOUGH I hope to be in London on Tuesday or Wednesday next, yet I cannot come thither without troubling you with another line. Blessed be God, it leaves me in better bodily health, than when I wrote last. Through divine mercy, preaching four or five times a week did not hurt me; and twice or thrice I have been enabled to take the field: in my opinion, a greater honour than to be monarch of the universe. London cares, and London labours, I expect, will soon bring me low again. But as Messrs. D―― and K―― are coming up, I hope soon to slip away and get strength, and then hunt for precious souls again. How gladly would I bid adieu to cieled houses, and vaulted roofs! Mounts are the best pulpits, and the heavens the best sounding-boards. O for power equal to my will! I would fly from pole to pole, publishing the everlasting gospel of the Son of God. I know you would lend me the wings of prayer. Jesus in answer give the wings of faith and love, and we shall then quickly soar to thy bosom, where

Sin and strife and sorrow cease,

And all is calm and joy and peace.

I write this at a house built for dear Mr. A――s. From his window is a prospect perhaps of thirty miles. I have wished you here with your telescope. But if the footstool is so glorious, what must the throne be? Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly! I am interrupted by company. Good night, my very dear friend, good night! Most cordial respects await dear Mrs. S―― and your daughter. Dear Mr. A――s is weak like myself, but joins in sending due and hearty respects. We have had most blessed seasons. Grace! grace! In heaven you will be rewarded for all favours conferred on

Yours, &c. &c. in the best bonds,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXVI.

To Mrs. C――.

London, May 28, 1762.

Dear Mrs. C――.

I AM just now come to town for a few days, sensibly better by my country excursion. Once more I have had the honour of taking the field, and have now some hopes of not being as yet quite thrown aside as a broken vessel. Help me to praise Him, whose mercy endureth for ever. Why do you persist in keeping poor Mr. D―― in suspense? If not done before, I expect to marry you both immediately upon my arrival, but do not stay for that. Your hint about Mr. S――’s being inclined to the ministry, made me smile. Mr. R――’s account shall be paid as soon as possible. But I beg no such thing may be done again. This is wrote in very great haste, hearing that the ship is gone. I wrote to all from Bristol, very lately. This must now do for all. God bless and reward you. Amen and Amen! I am, dear Mrs. C――,

Yours, &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXVII.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Norwich, July 31, 1762.

My very dear Friend,

THOUGH you never mentioned a word concerning the letter I sent you when at Bristol, yet this doth not discourage me from dropping you a few lines, now I am put into Norwich-Dock, in order to refit for another expedition. The Holland one last month, was, I trust, profitable to myself and others; and if ever my usefulness is to be continued at London, I must be prepared for it, by a longer itineration both by land and water. At present, blessed be God, I can preach once a day, and it would do your heart good to see what an influence attends the word. All my old times are revived again. On next Monday, God willing, I shall set forwards to Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, &c. You that are in cieled houses, and under vaulted roofs (which I do not grudge you) will not forget a poor pilgrim, who desires no other pulpit but a mount, no other sounding board but the heavens. I hope dear Mr. J―― is recovered of his indisposition, and that your wife and his, with yourself, are increasing with all the increase of God. My cordial respects and most hearty love attend you, and all that are so kind as to enquire after a worthless worm. As I shall not write to-night, be pleased to inform my wife that you heard of my welfare, and in so doing, you will add to the obligations already laid upon, my very dear Mr. K――n,

Yours, &c. in our Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXVIII.

To the Reverend Mr. T――.

Edinburgh, September 2, 1762.

I AM just this moment returned from Glasgow, where I have been enabled to preach every day, and twice at Cambuslang. Auditories were large, and Jesus smiled upon my feeble labours. God willing, I shall leave this place on Wednesday next; but I despair of seeing you. I have heard nothing of Mr. M――n and V――n since I left them at Leeds. What a mercy, that we are sure of meeting in heaven! Surely, you will not go before me thither. Must it be always juniores priores? Adieu. Cordial respects await your whole self. Lord Jesus be with your spirits! I fear the carrier will be gone. Accept these few rusty filings from, my very dear friend,

Yours, &c. &c. &c. in our glorious Jesus,

G. W.

September 9.

Thus far I went on Friday; but found that was the wrong day to send. Since then, I have been helped to preach every day. The Kirk hath been a Bethel. Grace! grace! On Monday, God willing, I shall set off. Follow with your prayers.

Yours, &c. &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXIX.

To Mr. D――.

Sunderland, September 19, 1762.

My dear Mr. D――,

I CAN only send you a few lines: but I hope they will be acceptable ones. Your last packet came to my hands yesterday. Blessed be God that all is so well! You will be glad to hear, that I can preach once a day, and that I have now a prospect of embarking soon. We expect peace, and I hope the places in London will be provided for. Pray keep the family as small as you can. Sickness lowers my circumstances. But Jesus is all in all. I hope to see dear Mr. S――k’s friends in a few days. I am glad he is at Ephrata. Tender love to him and his, to dear Mrs. C――, Mrs. P――l, and to all. I can no more. I write this at a venture, to send by way of Scotland, where the Redeemer hath been owning my feeble labours. Grace! grace! When I come to London, God willing, you shall hear again from, my very dear friends,

Yours, &c. &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXX.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Leeds, September 25, 1762.

Dear Sir,

WHAT a pity that I cannot answer your kind letter, by telling you where to meet me! but it is impracticable. I am just now setting forwards towards London, but fear I cannot reach it before Sunday. My chaise wanted repairing here. O how good hath Jesus been to a worthless worm! Once a day preaching, I can bear well; more hurts me. What shall I do with the chapel and tabernacle? Lord Jesus, be thou my guide and helper! He will! he will. Send word to tabernacle that you heard from me. We have had sweet seasons. Grace! grace! To his never-failing mercy do I commend your whole dear self, and all that are so kind as to enquire after, my very dear friend,

Yours, &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXI.

To Mrs. C――.

London, October 15, 1762.

Dear Mrs. C――,

I WISH to answer your last in person. I hope the time is now drawing near. I count the weeks, and days, and hours. Lord Jesus, direct my goings in thy way. Blessed be God that you live in such harmony! A house thus united in Jesus, will stand. I shall bring only one Mr. W――t, who takes care of me. I would not have Mr. H――s to think of stirring till he sees me. This I write in great haste. I am enabled to preach once a day. Give thanks! give thanks! and continue to pray for, dear Mrs. C――,

Yours, &c. in our glorious Emmanuel,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXII.

To Mr. A―― K――.

Bristol, Numbers 29, 1762.

GOD willing, I shall set off for Plymouth to-morrow morning, and hope to see you all on Thursday evening, or Friday. Let grand preparations be made; as a candle, a book, and a table. Above all, much prayer, that I may not again relapse at Plymouth; as Bristol people do threaten me for coming at this time of the year. Blessed be God, we have good seasons. I like Mr. B――n’s, better than a boarding school for little maidens. A word to the wise is enough. Adieu! The Lord be with you all. Cease not to pray for, my dear Timothy,

Yours, &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXIII.

To Mr. S―― S――.

Plymouth, December 4, 1762.

HOW was I disappointed, two Mondays, of seeing and conversing with my very dear Mr. S――! London, London, how dost thou weigh this mortal body down! If it be no odds, I would visit my dear friend again on a Wednesday. Perhaps on that day I may not be so fatigued. I feel in preaching, what you do in business. However, I must not complain. Once a day, I can manage quite well. Bristol was a refreshing place indeed. Congregations were very large, and a most gracious gale of divine influences attended the word preached. Being under a positive promise to come here before I left England, I embraced this opportunity. Through mercy, I preached last night, and find no hurt this morning. Many young people, I hear, are under great awakenings. May such hostilities never cease! O to begin to begin to wage an eternal war with the devil, the world, and the flesh. Still continue to help me, dear Sir, with your prayers. I would fain die sword in hand. You will not blame me for this ambition. I believe you are pretty much tinctured this way yourself. The Captain of our salvation approves of it. That in all your spiritual battles, He may be your shield and exceeding great reward, is the hearty prayer of, my invaluable friend,

Yours, &c. &c. in the best bonds,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXIV.

To Mrs. Elizabeth W――d.

Plymouth, December 5, 1762.

YOU did very wrong, in not letting me know of your mother’s necessities. She was a widow indeed. But now she is above the reach of every thing. O for patience to wait till we are sent for to that place, where the weary are at rest! I am weary of the world, of the church, and of myself. But Jesus will not leave us in the latter stages of our road. Blessed be his name, we have had pleasant seasons at Bristol, and two good gales here. I cannot get up to London till near Christmas-day. As affairs are circumstanced, every thing there tends to weigh me down. O that patience may have its perfect work! Let me always know your wants. It is your own fault if you lack any thing, whilst I have a farthing. You and your friend must prepare a great entertainment; for I intend dining with you when I come to town. Ere long we shall sit down and eat bread in our heavenly Father’s kingdom. Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly! I know who joins in saying, Amen! with, my dear old faithful friend and servant,

Yours, &c. for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXV.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Plymouth, December 5, 1762.

My dear steady Friend,

I MUST not be out of town, without sending my dear Mr. K――n a few loving lines. Blessed be God for a few steady friends! they are rarities even in the church of God. But the church is in a wilderness; ere long it will be in Canaan. No briars or thorns there. All glory be to Him who hath prepared such a rest for the purchase of his blood. Amen. Hallelujah! You will be glad to hear, that both here and at Bristol, souls are under real awakenings. Though I preach in much weakness, an infinitely condescending Jesus vouchsafes to come down in glorious gales of his blessed Spirit. This is all in all. But these are only streams. Ere long we shall drink at the fountain head. Do you not long to leap your seventy years? Blessed be God, we are nearer and nearer. Fly, fly, O time! welcome, welcome long wished for eternity! But I must not enlarge. We are going to the Lord’s table. Adieu! Hearty love awaits your whole self. In heaven I will thank you for all favours conferred upon, my dear friend,

Yours in the Friend of sinners,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXVI.

To Mr. A―― K――.

Bristol, December 12, 1762.

THROUGH divine mercy, we got here yesterday about three in the afternoon, all well, excepting that I lost my watch in the way. If it teacheth me to be more on my watch in the best things, it will be rather a gain. Lord, help me in every thing to give thanks! I do not repent my Plymouth journey. Thanks to all for their great kindnesses. Thanks, eternal thanks to the God of all, for giving us his presence! It is better than life. I have not yet seen your daughter, but I hear she is well. Tell Sarah not to murder so dear a child. Hugging to death is cruelty indeed. You will take the hint about my little servitor. I charge you both, as you will answer it at the bar of God, to teach them to be servant like, but not servile. Adieu! I must away to sacrament. O for such a one as we had last Sunday! I felt, I felt parting! O for the time when we shall part no more! Tender love to Mr. S――, his mother, brother, Mr. D――, and all; your servants not excepted. Sarah, adieu! Mind and get up in a morning to pray, before you get into shop. I make no apology for this, because you are a friend to, my dear man,

Yours, &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXVII.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Thursday evening. January 15, 1763.

My dear Friend,

DO meet me to-morrow by two o’clock, or rather one, at Mr. B――n’s, at Cannonbury-house. I have something of importance to communicate. Not to keep you in suspense, it is to beseech you, jointly with Mr. H――y and Mr. B――n, as trustees, to take upon you the whole care, both inward and outward, of the affairs of Tottenham-court chapel and tabernacle, and all other my concerns in England: this one thing being settled, I have nothing to retard my visit to America, to which I think there is a manifest call at this time, both as to the bracing up my poor feeble crazy body, and adjusting all things relating to Bethesda. O that the Lord may incline your heart to accept this trust! It will take off this ponderous load that oppresses me much. Consider, dear Sir, it is for God! for whose glory, I am convinced that you and my other dear friends have a single eye and disinterested heart. O may he richly reward you for this and all your labours of love! Fail not of meeting me at the time and place above-mentioned. Mr. H――y and Mr. H―― D――s, God willing, will be there. The Lord Jesus be with us all! My dear friend,

Yours, &c. &c. indeed and indeed, in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXVIII.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Leeds, March 6, 1763.

My very dear Friend,

YOU have heard, I suppose, of my progress to, and employ at Everton. Jesus was there. Last Thursday evening we came to these parts, where I have preached twice, and been closely employed in writing my little piece entitled, Observations, &c. in answer to the Bishop of Gloucester. Perhaps a day or two more may compleat it. Say nothing, but pray on. The next letters may be directed to Edinburgh, under cover to ―― H――n, Esq.; Post-Master general. You shall hear, God willing, when I have fixed upon a ship. And I know you will pray that Jesus may be my convoy.

Only Thou our leader be,

And we still will follow Thee.

I could enlarge, but must away to my throne. Tell all at Tabernacle and Chapel, where this leaves me. I send them and your whole self most tender love, and ten thousand thanks; and beg you would add to my obligations by praying for, my very dear friend,

Yours, &c. &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

Postscript, To Mr. J――e.

My dear Sir,

ACCEPT a few lines from an old friend that loves you and yours dearly. I would not be given to change, but, like my Master, love to the end. His blessing be on you both! Accept thanks unfeigned for all favours, and cease not to pray for, my very dear Mr. J――,

Yours, &c. in Ours,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXIX.

To Mrs. M――.

Newcastle, March 13, 1763.

Dear Mrs. M――,

IT hath given me concern, since I left town, that through bodily weakness, multiplicity of business, and pain of parting, I forgot to answer your request about your deceased son. If not too late, something like this may be inserted:

“Near this place lies interred, William Middleditch, aged twelve years, a desirable promising child; but an all-wise God thought proper to remove him ――, 1762. His surviving parents desire to subscribe to the divine will, and to say, The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away: blessed be the name of the Lord.”

Ere long somebody will be writing an epitaph for our tombs. Change of place doth not change my sentiments. “Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly,” is the constant language of my heart. This leaves me thus far advanced towards Scotland, where just such a ship as I want awaits me. How good is Jesus! Fain would I sing,

Lord, obediently I go,

Gladly leaving all below.

I am sorry to find by the papers that Mr. B―― is taken up. To take no notice would be the best method. A prison or outward punishment is but a poor cure for enthusiasm, or a disordered understanding. It may increase but not extinguish such an ignis fatuus. Lord Jesus, give us all a right judgment in all things! Farewell. Brethren, pray for us. We have had pleasant seasons at Everton, Leeds, Aberford, Kippax, and here. Tender love to all that are so kind as to enquire after a worthless worm. That you may be so supplied as not to miss me one moment, is the earnest prayer of, dear Mrs. M――,

Your sincere friend and ready servant in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXX.

To Mr. S――.

Newcastle, March 13, 1763.

My very dear Friend,

I CANNOT go further, without dropping you a few lines. They leave me thus far advanced in my journey to Scotland. My friends write me word, that the ship Jenny, Captain Orr, a very discreet person, sails from Greenock to Boston the middle of April. You will pray, that the God of the sea and dry land will give me a safe, and, if agreeable to his will, a speedy passage. On the road we have been favoured with some sweet seasons. I have preached at Everton, Leeds, Kippax, Aberford, and this place. Next sabbath I hope to be at Edinburgh. On my way, I was enabled to finish a little thing in answer to the present Bishop of Gloucester. If my friends think proper to print it, you will find a parting testimony left behind me for the good old Puritans and free-grace Dissenters, whom he sadly maligns. Bless it, glorious Emmanuel, and it shall be blessed! Follow me, follow me, my very dear Sir, with your constant prayers. Mine will always be ascending for you and yours. Indeed I owe you much love! You have often strengthened my hands in the Lord. Fain would I sing,

Lord, obediently I go,

Gladly leaving all below;

Only Thou my leader be,

And I still will follow Thee.

And now, my dear friend, farewell. Ere long we shall meet in a better climate, where

Pain and sin and sorrow cease,

And all is calm and joy and peace.

Most cordial respects await dear Mrs. S―― and your daughter, if continued in this dying world. Expect to hear, from time to time, from, my very dear Sir,

Yours, &c. &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXXI.

To Mrs. W――.

Edinburgh, March 19, 1763.

Dear Mrs. W――,

I WAS quite concerned to see you so ill as I passed by you. I charge you to want for nothing. Speak to Messrs. K――n or H――y: they will supply you at any time. Do not be afraid to go to the Tabernacle house. I will own and stand by my dear steady and faithful servants and helpers. Such a one you have been. O for heaven! There are no thorns and briars amongst God’s people there. May our present ones fit us more and more for that place where

Sin and strife and sorrow cease,

And all is calm and joy and peace.

Follow me with your prayers. Tender love to all the conference. I have no doubt of the Lord’s being with them. God be with you all evermore! We have had good seasons at Everton, Leeds, Newcastle, &c. in the way. Grace! grace! In about a month I expect to sail. A good stock of prayers in that time, may be laid up for, dear Betty, my old faithful friend and servant,

Yours, &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXXII.

To the Reverend Mr. T――.

Edinburgh, March 26, 1763.

My dear Friend,

WHY not see each other once more? Perhaps, after my return from Glasgow, I may be here a fortnight. My poor tabernacle is so far restored, as to mount the gospel throne once a day. Perhaps the sea air may brace me up a little more: but after all, it is only like the glimmering of a candle before it goes out. Death will light it up in a better world. Work on, my dear son, work on. The night cometh when no man can work. O that I had done more for the blessed Jesus! O that I could think more of what he hath done for me! Never mind being counted singular. O that you may be more and more vile every day! Happy they that are safe landed!

――――And happy, happy we,

Who soon their company shall see!

It is but for a little indeed. Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly! I know you will heartily say, Amen. Cordial respects await Mrs. T――. The Edinburgh prescriptions were the most blessed to me. My spirits are much brisker than when here last. Grace! grace! O to lie low! Adieu, my dear friend.

Yours, &c. &c. &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXXIII.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Edinburgh, March 26, 1763.

My dear Mr. K――n,

I THANK you for your kind letter, and thank the Lord ♦of all lords that matters go on so well. I am more than easy. The Redeemer hath directed my choice, and will bless, assist, and reward those employed. Ten thousand thanks to you all. You may act as you please with respect to Mr. ――. His attending the Tabernacle when I was well, and leaving it ever since I have been sick, doth not look well at all: but please yourselves and you will please me. Do not consult me in any thing, unless absolutely necessary. The Lord, I trust and believe, will give you a right judgment in all things. But O follow me with your prayers. On Monday I am going to see about the ship. Now we have peace abroad, Lord Jesus give us peace at home! I am sorry my little piece, entituled Observations, &c. is not come out yet. Tender love to all. My dear old friend,

Yours, &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXXIV.

To Mr. W――y.

Edinburgh, April 8, 1763.

Dear Mr. W――y,

I THANK you for your kind remembrance in Mr. W――’s. Indeed I do not forget you. O that you may be a steady follower of Him, who was not ashamed of being called the carpenter’s son! My prayer to him is, that you may be daily more and more built up in his most holy faith. But the way to heaven is a narrow way. No elbow room for our lusts. What a blessing this! Lord Jesus, make us willing to be made whole! Adieu. Tender love to all enquiring friends. I trust their prayers are heard. The Redeemer vouchsafes to smile upon the feeble labours of, my dear Mr. W――y,

Yours, &c. in Him,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXXV.

To Mr. K――n.

Leith, May 14, 1763.

My dear old steady Friend,

WHY so fearful of writing a longer letter? The longer the better. Blessed be God, though disappointed in embarking, by reason of sickness, I can read, and write, and hope (notwithstanding a little cold, which threw me somewhat back this week) soon to get upon my throne again. The news about the congregations, you may well guess rejoiced my poor heart. Surely Mr. H―― will not get to heaven before me too. What an age do we live in! Children thus to take the lead of their parents. Heavenly Father, not my will, but thine be done! I expect to-morrow’s interview. A single eye will carry us through all. A catholic spirit is the plague of bigots. Lord Jesus, cure them of their bad distemper! I rejoice to hear that good Lady H――n is so supported. Pray remember me in the kindest manner to dear Mr. H――y. As I have not heard from him for two or three posts, I fear he is worse. Pray let him know of my sending this; and inform him of my having been able to go upon the water to-day for several hours, and by land afterwards. Others can die, but I cannot. Father, thy will be done! What a God do I serve? Physicians, friends on every side of me. And what is all in all, the great physician comforting my soul. Thank, O thank him in behalf of a worthless worm. Tender love to Mrs. K――n, Mr. and Mrs. B――n, Mr. and Mrs. J――, and all dear friends, who are so kind as to be concerned for me. You will be very fine when all is painted. Blessed be God, I approve your conduct, and love your spirit. Lord Jesus, make us all glorious within! I must drop a line to dear Mr. A―― about Mr. H――, or you should have more from, my dear old steady friend,

Yours, &c. &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXXVI.

To the Reverend Mr. T――.

Greenock, June 4, 1763.

My dear Friend,

A THOUSAND thanks for your kind letters. Jesus is kind. I am better, and just going on board the Fanny, bound to Rapanach, in Virginia. Yours to good Lady H――n is taken care of. I hear her daughter died well, and that her Ladyship is comforted and resigned. Blessed be God! Adieu. Follow me with your prayers, as being

Ever yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXXVII.

To the Reverend Mr. G――.

Greenock, June 4, 1763.

STRANGE! that I should not see one whom I so dearly love. Dear Mr. S―― will tell you the reasons. I expect to be called every moment. God bless and reward you and yours. The diploma was sent to Edinburgh to be signed by Mr. Trail, but hath miscarried. I wrote to Mr. Hamilton to send it by the Diligence, which is to sail in about six weeks to Boston. Expecting to be called every moment, I can only hasten to subscribe myself, reverend and very dear Sir,

Ever yours, &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCLXXXVIII.

To Mr. S―― S――.

At Sea, July 15, 1763.

My very dear Friend,

I HOPE that this will find you and yours prospering both in soul and body. It leaves me looking towards Virginia but only as an harbour in my way to an infinitely better port, from whence I shall never put out to sea again. Through mercy I have been surprizingly kept up during the voyage, long but not tedious. Jesus hath made the ship a Bethel, and I enjoyed that quietness which I have in vain sought after for some years on shore. Not an oath to be heard even in the greatest hurry. All hath been harmony and love. But my breath is short, and I have little hopes, since my late relapse, of much further public usefulness. A few exertions, like the last struggles of a dying man, or glimmering flashes of a taper just burning out, is all that can be expected from me. But blessed be God, the taper will be lighted up again in heaven. The sun, when setting here, only sets to rise in another clime. Such is the death of all God’s saints. Why then should we be afraid? Why should we not rather by faith be looking through the windows of mortality, and daily crying, “Why are his chariot wheels so long in coming?” We had need of patience, especially when the evil days of sickness and declining age come. But we serve a Master who will not forsake his servants when grey headed. When heart and flesh fail, God, even our God in Christ, will be our portion and confidence for ever. Does my dear Mr. S―― repent that he served and worked for Him when young? Is dear Mrs. S―― sorrowful that he was the God of her youth? Or is Miss now thinking that she hath lately made a wrong choice? No, no: I will venture to answer for them all. Let us, therefore, love our Master, and not go from him. Who knows but our latter end may yet increase? If not in public usefulness, Lord Jesus, let it be in inward heart-holiness, that we may daily ripen for the full enjoyment of thyself in heaven! I know who says, Amen; I add Amen, and Amen! and so subscribe myself, with ten thousand thanks for all favours, my dear friends,

Yours, &c. &c. in our Jesus,

G. W.

August 24.

P. S. Since writing the above, we have been exercised by contrary winds, thunders, lightenings, &c. but out of all the Lord hath brought us, and we came within the Cape last night. Help me to praise him, O my friends.

LETTER MCCLXXXIX.

To Mr. P――ks.

Within Virginia-Cape, August 24, 1763.

My dear Mr. P――ks,

I FULLY purposed to write to you before my embarkation for America, but sickness prevented. However, I dearly love you, and often remember you before his throne, who I am persuaded hath loved and given himself for you. This he hath told you, and assured you of again and again by his blessed word and Spirit. Be not therefore faithless, but believing. O that this may find you rejoicing with that joy which is unspeakable and full of glory. It leaves me longing for that blissful state, where sorrow and sighing will flee away. There, there shall we meet, and in spite of all the suggestions of Satan, and the desperate wickedness of our own deceitful hearts, ere long join in singing the song of Moses and the Lamb. Faithful is he that hath promised, who also will do it. Last night, but not till then, we cast anchor after near a twelve weeks passage. The last six weeks were very trying to my shattered bark. But Jesus is All in All. Help, help to praise him. To his infinite and never-failing mercy do I commend you, as being, for his great name’s sake, my dear Mr. P――ks,

Yours most affectionately,

G. W.

LETTER MCCXC.

To all my dear Tabernacle Hearers, that love the Lord Jesus Christ in Sincerity.

Virginia, September 1, 1763.

Dearly Beloved in the Lord,

THOUGH absent in body, the Searcher of hearts knows that I have been present with you in spirit ever since I left London. Glad, very glad was I to hear from time to time whilst ashore, that the shout of a king was among you; and it was my continual prayer whilst at sea, that the glory of the Lord may so fill the Tabernacle, that all who come to hear the word, may be constrained to say, “Surely God is in this place.” I doubt not of your wrestling in my behalf. Certainly it must be in answer to your cryings unto the Lord, that I have been dealt with so bountifully. For some weeks I was enabled to preach once a day when in Scotland, and I trust not without some divine efficacy. But my late disorder kept me silent for some weeks afterwards, and put me upon thinking sometimes, that my intended voyage would be retarded, at least for one year longer. Having obtained a little more bodily strength, I ventured upon the mighty waters, and thanks, eternal thanks to a never-failing Redeemer, I have not been laid by an hour through sickness since I came on board. Every thing hath been providentially ordered, suitable to my low estate. A large and commodious cabbin, a kind Captain, and a most orderly and quiet ship’s company, who gladly attended when I had breath to preach. Scarce an oath have I heard upon deck, during a twelve weeks voyage; and such a stillness through the whole ship, both on week days and the Lord’s-day, as hath from time to time surprized me. Some concern hath appeared, but of what kind or duration the event alone can discover. The spiritual bread hath been cast on the waters: who knows but it may be found after many days. How it shall please my all-bountiful Master to dispose of me when I get on shore, you shall know hereafter. All that I can say is, (if I know any thing of my unspeakably deceitful, and desperately wicked heart) Lord Jesus,

A life that all things casts behind,

Springs forth obedient to thy call;

A heart, that no desire can move,

But still t’adore, resign, and love,

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

You will not forget to persevere in praying for a poor, worthless, but willing pilgrim, who dearly loves you, and daily rejoices in the pleasing reflection, that he shall ere long meet you in a better world, where the inhabitants shall no more say, “I am sick.” Blessed prospect! Surely on the very mentioning it, you will break forth in singing,

Rejoice, the Lord is king, &c.

I will not interrupt you. Adieu. The Lord Jesus be with your spirits. Only when you have done singing, my dear fellow-labourers, my dear Tabernacle-hearers, forget not to subjoin at least one petition, that whether absent or present, Jesus may be more and more precious to,

Your affectionate friend, and willing servant, for his great name’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER MCCXCI.

To all my dear Tottenham-Court Hearers, that love the Lord Jesus Christ in Sincerity.

Virginia, September 1, 1763.

Dearly Beloved in the Lord,

THOUGH less than the least of all, and unworthy, utterly unworthy the notice of any, yet I cannot help thinking, but for Christ’s sake you will be glad to hear of the goodness of the Lord extended towards me since my departure from London. Surely it was trying, to leave so many at each end of the town, who, I hope, will be my joy and crown of rejoicing in the great day. Indeed, after being taken ill of my old disorder at Edinburgh, and remaining near six weeks silent in Scotland, I thought of seeing you soon again: but having obtained help, I embarked, for the eleventh time, in the ship Fanny; and though we have had a long and trying, yet, blessed be God, it hath not been an unprofitable voyage. Often, often have I thought of my dear London friends, when I guessed they were assembled together; and as often prayed, when I knew they were retired to rest, that he that keepeth Israel, and neither slumbereth nor sleepeth, would watch over them, and make their very dreams devout. How I am to be disposed of when on dry land, is best known to Him whose I am, and whom I desire to serve in preaching the gospel of his dear Son. Had I strength equal to my will, I could fly from pole to pole. Though wearied, and now almost worn out, indeed and indeed I am not weary of my blessed Master’s service. O love him, love him, for he is a good Master, and doth not leave us when our strength faileth. Make him your portion, and he will be your confidence for ever. According to my present views, if able to do any thing for you, through his leave I hope to see you again next year. In the mean while, as long as I have breath to draw, it shall be my heart’s desire and prayer to God, that the labours of the dear servants of Jesus, who are called to preach amongst you, may be so blessed and owned from above, that I may not be missed a single moment. May they, may you increase with all the increase, till you are all filled with all the fulness of God. When near his throne, if there be any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels of mercies, pray that the same blessing may be conferred, my dear fellow-labourers, my dear Tottenham-Court hearers, on

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

G. W.

LETTER MCCXCII.

To Mr. A――.

Virginia, September 7, 1763.

My very dear Mr. A――,

MANY more letters did I intend to write to you and other dear friends, had I not been prevented by storms, &c. for some weeks before our arrival. If enabled, I shall take care to pay them as I move from place to place. We are now on dry land. Christian friends, whom I never before heard of, were prepared to receive me: and I have preached four times. This leaves me in my way to Philadelphia, still visited with my old disorder, which I now never expect to drop, till I drop for good and all this body of clay, this body of sin and death. I suppose you are in like circumstances, as well as thousands besides, who love the Lord Jesus in sincerity. Well: He that cometh will come, and will not tarry. Blessed are all they that wait for him. I hope you are favoured with precious gales of divine influence. Tender love to all our dear fellow-labourers, and to all our dear hearers of every denomination, in every place. You will not forget a poor pilgrim, who, though absent in body is present in spirit. Hoping to write in a few days to dear Mr. Middleton, &c. and wishing you and yours all that a blessed never-failing God can give you in time and eternity, I subscribe myself, my very dear old friend,

Ever yours, &c. in our precious Emmanuel,

G. W.

LETTER MCCXCIII.

To Mr. W――y.

Philadelphia, September. 29, 1763.

My dear Mr. W――y,

EBENEZER! Hitherto the Lord hath helped! I have been here above a week; but still an invalid.

Strange, that a harp of thousand strings

Should keep in tune so long!

Poor Wright is taking his American seasoning. He hath the ague and fever. This prevents his writing. Inform his relations of it. He wants for nothing. When you write, mention nothing but what relates to the eternal world. I have no thoughts to throw away on the trifling things of time. Tender love to all that are travelling to the New-Jerusalem. There, if no sooner, we shall meet and praise the never-failing Emmanuel, for whose great name’s sake I subscribe myself,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCCXCIV.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Philadelphia, October 21, 1763.

My very dear Mr. K――n,

THE bearer, Mr. R――d, is a young sober gentleman, intended for the temple, and will be very glad to see and hear Mr. Romaine, and other gospel ministers. I hope all are flaming for God, even a God in Christ. Here are some young bright witnesses rising up in the church. Perhaps I have already conversed with forty new-creature ministers of various denominations. Sixteen hopeful students, I am credibly informed, were converted at New-Jersey college, last year. What an open door, if I had strength! But—Father, thy will be done! blessed be His name, I can preach now and then. Last Tuesday we had a remarkable season among the Lutherans. Children and grown people were much impressed. Grace! grace! If possible, I intend returning with Mr. H――m (now here) to Georgia. You will hear the determination by the next ship, that goes very soon. I wrote to dear Mr. H――y very lately, by way of Bristol. Tender, tender love to him, and to all. I have scarce time to beg the continued interest of all your prayers, in behalf of, my dear steady old friend,

Yours, &c. in our Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCXCV.

To Mr. D――, &c.

Philadelphia, November 8, 1763.

My very dear Friends,

MAN appoints, God for wise reasons disappoints. All was ready for my coming by land to you at Bethesda, with Mr. H――m; but several things concurred to prevent me, and the physicians all agree, that the only chance I have for growing better, is to stay and see what the cold weather will do for me. Fain would I say, however it may cross my will, Father, thy will be done! At present, I make a shift to preach twice a week. But alas, my strength is perfect weakness. What a mercy that Jesus is all in all! You will let me hear from you very particularly, by Captain Bolitha, or any other opportunity, either to this place or New-York. I want to know the present state of all your affairs in every respect. Surely the blessed Emmanuel, who hath brought me thus far, will give us an interview by and by. That it may be a very happy one here below, and a prelude to an infinitely more happy and never-ceasing one above, is the hearty prayer of, my very dear friends,

Yours, &c. &c. in our glorious Head,

G. W.

LETTER MCCXCVI.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Philadelphia, November 14, 1763.

My dear old Friend,

THIS comes by one Mr. R――, reputed to be a real christian and an expert tradesman, but greatly afflicted with a nervous head-ach. He will be glad of some spiritual acquaintance. Fain would he have had me under his roof. I wish he may get help, but I think we have got our life warrant. Mr. Cruttenden I find is released; and a dear minister of New-York got free on Saturday. I am here yet, left behind, and now about to make my first excursion to the New-Jersey college. Twice a week preaching, is my present allowance. Many of various ranks seem to be brought under real concern. Physicians are absolutely against my going to Georgia, till I get more strength. Besides, it is doubtful whether the southern Indians will not break out, and therefore a little stay in these parts may on that account be most prudent. Lord Jesus, direct my goings in thy way! Accept my wonted general salutation; tender love to all. You and yours will not cease to pray for, my dear steady friend,

Yours, &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCXCVII.

To Mr. D――n, &c.

Elizabeth-Town, November 26, 1763.

My very dear Friends,

HOW is this? Am I come four thousand miles to winter with you, and like to be disappointed at last? I fear so; for alas, only by travelling thus far from Philadelphia in my way to New-York, I am quite fatigued. But I do not despair yet, if God gives me any strength. Pray hard, and who knows what a God may do? Dear Mr. H――m will best acquaint you with northern particulars. He leaves me this morning, but I hope to see him at New-York the beginning of the week, and to write more. O that I may come with him! Abba, Father, all things are possible with thee! Adieu! My dear friend is going. Cease not to pray for, and write to,

Yours, &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCXCVIII.

New-York, December 1, 1763.

My dear Sir,

HOW thankful should I be to the adorable Jesus, and to all that love me for his great name’s sake, for the blessed contents of your last, dated September 10. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me praise his holy name! May this be only an earnest of good things to come, both in England and Wales. Ere now, I suppose dear Mr. Davis is crying Gogunniant in London. We are essaying to echo it back from America. Some very good impressions have been made in Philadelphia, and we had four sweet seasons at New-Jersey college, and two at Elizabeth-Town, in my way hither. Some said they resembled old times. My spirits grow better. But thrice a week is as often as I can preach. To-day I begin here, and have thoughts of returning with Mr. H――m to Georgia, but am fearful of relapsing by such a fatiguing passage or journey. The Lord will direct. Mr. Cruttenden is got above these infirmities; God be praised that he went off so comfortably! may our expiring hour be like his! Surprized am I indeed to find that you have a little one coming into this world which others are leaving. Lord Jesus, spare root and branch, for thy own glory, and thy people’s good! Lord Jesus, convert us all more and more, and make us all like little children! Tender, tender love to all that love him in sincerity. I would write to many more, but company, low state of health, and travelling, render more frequent writing impracticable to, my dear steady friend,

Yours, theirs, &c. &c. in our Jesus,

G. W.

New-York, December 4.

SINCE writing the above, blessed be God, I have preached. Persons of all denominations seem to be athirst. Grace! grace! Desire dear Mr. H――y to look into the Universal History of Arts and Sciences, volume the second, page 436, for an account of Methodism, by a papist. God bless you all. Amen and Amen. I am just now told that the ship is going. Several other opportunities of writing will soon offer, which, God willing, shall be embraced by, my dear steady friend,

Ever yours, &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCXCIX.

To Mr. D――n, &c.

New-York, December 7, 1763.

My very dear Friends,

WHAT a mortification do you think it must be to me, to part thus from, and not to accompany my dear Mr. H――m to Bethesda? Thus it was near twenty years ago, and yet I came, though he left me so ill at New-England. Assure yourselves, I shall come as soon as possible. In the mean while, I have desired Mr. H――m to assist in supervising and settling the accompts, and to give his advice in respect to the house, plantation, &c. &c. I beg you will be so good as to let me have an inventory of every individual thing, the names and number of the negroes, and what you think is necessary to be done every way. I would only observe in general, that I would have the family lessened as much as may be, and all things contracted into as small a compass as possible. And now once more adieu, though I trust but for a short season. My heart is too full to enlarge. I have not got the account of the children taken in since the first institution; it is left I believe in New-England. I purpose going thither now from the southward. But it will be better to go to heaven. Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly! Dear Mr. H――m will inform you of all particulars concerning the gospel ministrations of, my very dear friends,

Yours, ever yours, &c. &c. in Christ,

G. W.

LETTER MCCC.

To Mr. H――y.

New-York, December 8, 1763.

Dear Sir,

BLESSED be God, I am enabled to preach thrice a week. But such a flocking of all ranks, I never before saw at New-York. A great number have been to see me, and several come to me in the evening, as it should seem, to hear something of the kingdom of God. My stay here is undetermined. Perhaps it may be till Christmas. Many thanks are due to my London friends, for their kind assistance, from time to time, in carrying on outward matters, and particularly to those who were so ready to assist in compleating the tabernacle job in such an honourable way. All with you will continue to pray for me. I would write more, but amidst such a throng of company and bodily weakness, it is indeed impracticable. I now repeatedly send all my tender love; and still praying that all may be filled with all the fulness of God, I beg leave to subscribe myself,

Yours, &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCI.

To Mr. S―― S――.

New-York, December 16, 1763.

My very dear Friend,

I SEE by what you have done lately for the tabernacle, that you do not forget absent friends. I think you and yours are not forgotten by them, neither I believe are forgotten by the Friend of all. He remembers us, though he is advanced to so great a kingdom; remembers us in our low estate, and remembers that we are but dust. What a blessing this to worthless, ill and hell-deserving me! What a mercy, to meet with such a friend in the latter stages of our road! Surely he is altogether lovely. Having loved his own, he loves them to the end; witness his yet continuing to own the feeble labours of an almost worn out pilgrim. Every day the thirst for hearing the word increases, and the better sort come home to hear more of it. I must now go soon to New-England. Cold weather and a warm heart suit my tottering tabernacle best. The ship is going. God bless you and yours! I hope that all related, and all who are near and dear to you, are alive for God,—a God,—a God in Christ; in whose great name, I beg leave to subscribe myself, my very dear friend,

Yours, &c. &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCCCII.

To the Reverend Mr. G――.

New-York, Deuteronomy 18, 1763.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

BLESSED be God, I am better in health than when I wrote last. Preaching thrice a week agrees pretty well with me this cold season of the year. I am apt to believe my disorder will be periodical. It was so with Mr. Postwick, who is now with God. Our turn must come by and by. Who would have thought Mr. Robert Scot would have went off so soon? Lord, what is man? O to be always ready! O for thousands to go forth to alarm a drowsy world! New-Jersey college is a blessed nursery; one of the purest perhaps in the universe. The worthy President and three tutors, are all bent upon making the students both saints and scholars. I was lately there for a week. The Redeemer vouchsafed to own the word preached. Some said it was like old times. Prejudices in this place have most strangely subsided. The better sort flock as eagerly as the common people, and are fond of coming for private gospel conversation. This is all of grace. O for an humble and thankful heart! Perhaps I may soon go to Boston. I know you will pray that the glorious Emmanuel may accompany me in all my removes. That this may be the happy lot of your whole self, and of all dear enquiring friends, is the hearty prayer of, reverend and very dear Sir,

Yours, theirs, &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

P. S. I wrote to Mr. Niven last week.

LETTER MCCCIII.

To Mr. D――n, &c.

New-York, January 12, 1764.

My very dear Friends,

CAPTAIN Bolitho is returned, and not one line from Bethesda! Surely you were not informed of his sailing, or you expected to see me with Mr. H――m. That which lets will surely by and by be taken out of the way. Blessed be God, the cold braces me up a little. I am enabled to preach twice or thrice a week. Congregations continue very large, and I trust saving impressions are made upon many. Some students also in Philadelphia and New Jersey colleges, I hear are much awakened. O for a blessed gale of divine influences when we meet at Bethesda! From thence, or Charles-Town, I purpose to embark for England. But future things belong to Him, who (whatever may be our thoughts) always orders all things well. To his never-failing guidance and most tender mercy do I commit you all, as being, for his great name’s sake, my very dear friends,

Yours, &c. &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCCCIV.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Boston, March 3, 1764.

My very dear Friend,

AS I find by letters from my wife and Mr. T―― C――, dated in October and November, and by another from Mr. D――t, dated in December, that my friends had heard from me more than once, I was in hopes of receiving a few lines from you by the last New-York packet. But I suppose you thought I was gone to the southward. Providence shut up my way: I believe for wise reasons. The inclosed will let you see how matters went at New-York. Since leaving that place, a sweet influence hath attended the word at Easthampton, Bridgehampton, and South-hold upon Long-Island, at Shelter-Island also, and at New-London, Norwich, and ♦Providence on the main land. At Boston I have been received with the usual warmth of affection. Twice have we seen the Redeemer’s stately steps in the great congregation. But as the small-pox is likely to take an universal spread through the town, I purpose making my country tour, and then return to Boston in my way to the southward. Invitations come so thick and fast from every quarter, that I know not what to do. I cannot boast of acquiring much additional bodily strength, any otherwise than as the cool season of the year helps to keep me up. Twice a week is as often as I can with comfort ascend my throne. The Redeemer vouchsafes to speak for himself there, and private conversation is greatly blessed. Thus the taper keeps burning a little longer: when extinguished on earth, it will be removed where it shall burn with uninterrupted lustre in the kingdom of heaven. Till I hear from you, and see what is determined concerning Bethesda, I cannot think of undertaking a long voyage. Sometimes I fear my weakness will never allow me to go on ship-board any more. But I will wait. I will endeavour to watch and pray, and doubt not but I shall hear a voice behind me saying, “This is the way, walk thou in it.” In the mean while, I rejoice to find that dear Mr. Davis is come to his winter quarters, and do earnestly pray night and day, that he and all my dear fellow-labourers and hearers may increase with all the increase of God. Perhaps they may pray me over once more. Whenever the way is clear, I am ready to say, “Lord Jesus, lo I come.” Tender, most tender love awaits you all. I must not enlarge, lest my affections should overpower this feeble frame. In heaven it will be otherwise. My very dear Sir, farewel. I must away to preach at Charles-Town, a neighbouring town to Boston. Hoping ere long to join with you all in praising God for evermore, I beg leave to subscribe myself,

Yours, &c. &c. in our glorious Head,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCV.

To Mr. S―― S――.

Concord, 20 miles from Boston, March 10, 1764.

My very dear Friend,

SINCE my last I suppose you have heard one way or another of my being in this dying world, and in some measure improved for propagating the glorious gospel. New York was New-York indeed. We saw blessed days of the Son of Man there. Since that, in my way to these parts, a divine influence attended the word preached in various places. And how would you have been delighted to have seen Mr. Wheelock’s Indians? Such a promising nursery of future missionaries, I believe was never seen in New-England before: pray encourage it with all your might. I also wish you could give some useful puritanical books to Harvard-college library, lately burnt down. Few perhaps will give such; and yet a collection of that kind is absolutely necessary for future students and poor neighbouring ministers, to whom I find the books belonging to the library are freely lent out from time to time. You will not be angry with me for these hints. I know your ambitious greedy soul: you want to grow richer and richer towards God. O that there may be in me such a mind! But my wings are clipped. I can only preach twice or thrice a week with comfort. And yet a wider door than ever is opened all along the continent. A beginning is made in Boston. But as the small-pox is spreading there, I purpose preaching for a while in adjacent places. With what success, you may know hereafter. I send you and yours these few lines as a token of gratitude, respect, and love unfeigned; but must still beg you to add to my obligations, by continuing to pray for, my very dear friends,

Yours, &c. &c. in our glorious Head,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCVI.

To C―― H――y, Esq.

Portsmouth, March 23, 1764.

Very dear Sir,

HOW was my heart eased by receiving yesterday your kind letter, dated October 22d? If you and dear Mr. K――n will continue to manage when I am present, as well as when I am absent, it may give another turn to my mind. Who knows what a never-failing God may do in a few months! At present, my way is clear to go on preaching till I can journey southward. The inclosed will inform you what hath been done by one sermon at Providence, formerly a most ungodly place, forty miles south of Boston. At Newbury, which I left yesterday, is a stir indeed. On Lord’s-day I shall begin here. O for daily fresh gales! That they may every day more and more increase with you and all your dear relations, and all dear friends, is the hearty prayer of, very dear Sir, in great haste, but greater love,

Yours, &c. &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCVII.

To Mrs. M――h.

Portsmouth, March 30, 1764.

Dear Mrs. M――h,

I HAVE just now heard of your loss. Accept a few sympathizing lines. I hope those that are dead, died in the Lord: if so, we had need weep only for ourselves and for children that are left behind. You are now more at liberty for the Redeemer’s work. I need wish you no greater honour than that you may be a widow indeed. Though desolate, she puts her trust in the Lord, and she continues in prayer night and day. This hath been your old employ. By and by you shall have nothing to do but praise.

O glorious seat! Our God our king,

Us thither bring, to kiss thy feet.

I hope ere now, that many more in the neighbouring market have thus begun their heaven upon earth. I hear God is with you at the chapel. Praise the Lord, O my soul! You will know from others, what cheer the Redeemer gives us in America. Good cheer, Mrs. M――h, good cheer. He rains down righteousness; he rains down bread from heaven on the congregations. This supports (and at times overcomes) my tottering tabernacle. In heaven we shall have a glorious body. Hoping and believing that yourself and sister, Mr. and Mrs. K――g, and Mr. and Mrs. W――, with many others, will speedily meet there, I subscribe myself, dear Mrs. M――h,

Yours, theirs, &c. in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCVIII.

To Mr. and Mrs. D――n.

Boston, April 20, 1764.

My very dear Friends,

I WISH you much joy. Grace, mercy, and peace be multiplied upon you both! It will, it will. Your match was certainly made in heaven. How do I long to see you! I have been at my ne plus ultra northward, and am now more free and capable of settling my affairs southward. When that is done, how chearfully, with a Christ in my heart instead of my arms, could I sing, “Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace!” I hope you are not offended at my giving a power of attorney to Mr. H――m. The Redeemer knows it was not owing to a distrust of any of you, but only in case of my death, that he might testify to the world the integrity of your actions, and the veracity of your accounts. I am persuaded he will not desire to interfere, but act and consult jointly, as occasion offers; and you will go on in your old way. O that I was assured of your stay at Bethesda! Of this I am satisfied, that you will not distress me by leaving the place destitute of proper help. And I assure you, if I thought we should have the least demur, I would not come at all. My tottering tabernacle will not bear grief, especially from those whom I so dearly love, and who have served the institution so faithfully and disinterestedly for so many years. Verily you shall in no wise lose your reward. What I have in my view for Bethesda, may be better spoke of when me meet, than by letter. Lord Jesus, hasten the wished-for time! At present, by my late excursions I am brought low; but rest and care may brace me up again for some little further service for our glorious Emmanuel. A most blessed influence hath attended the word in various places, and many have been made to cry out, “What shall we do to be saved?” O for such a cry at the southward! Abba, Father, all things are possible with thee! To his tender and never-failing mercy do I commit you, as being, my very dear friends,

Yours most affectionately in the blessed Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCIX.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Boston, April 25, 1764.

My very dear Mr. K――n,

YOU are a friend indeed. The Friend of sinners, the King of saints, will bless and reward you for all your works of faith and unfeigned labours of love. Nay, he will bless both you and your children. God grant, that roots and branches may all increase with all the increase of God. I find I can do but little for him, and by a late return of my disorder, was in danger of doing less. But, blessed be his name, I am recovered, and yesterday got upon my throne again. Words cannot well express the eagerness of the people to hear. I was meditating an escape to the southward last week; but Boston people sent a gospel hue and cry after me, and really brought me back. Lord Jesus, let it be for thy glory, and thy people’s good! Blessed be his name for giving you so much prudence in the management of the Chapel and Tabernacle affairs, and for countenancing the ministerial labours at both ends of the town. The burning bush may still be our coat of arms. By a ship that will soon be going for London, I purpose to write to you and dear Mr. H――y more particularly. I have very little time allowed to write this, lest the vessel should be gone. Adieu. Tender love to all. Ten thousand thanks, and most affectionate love await all mentioned in your last, and all who are so kind as to enquire after, and pray for, dear Mr. K――n,

Theirs, yours, &c. in our glorious Emmanuel,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCX.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Boston, May 19, 1764.

My very dear Friend,

YOUR letter by the packet came safe, but I fear you must write again. There can be no coming to England till I have settled Georgia affairs. Thither I cannot go till the fall: a few months will soon glide away. Your Isaac is well off. Of such is the kingdom of heaven. People here beg earnestly for a six o’clock morning lecture. I hope to get strength to gratify them. To be able to do what you say, will fully satisfy! I would fain die preaching. Tender love to all. By the next opportunity your worthy collegue shall hear from, my very dear friend,

Yours, &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXI.

To C―― H――y, Esq.

Boston, June 1, 1764.

Very dear Sir,

I HOPE this will find you safe returned from your summer tour, and laden with the fruit of God’s everlasting love. You see where this leaves me. Friends have even constrained me to stay here, for fear of running into the Summer’s heat. Hitherto I find the benefit of it. Whatever it is owing to, through mercy, I am much better in health, than I was this time twelvemonth, and can now preach thrice a week to very large auditories without hurt. Every day I hear of some brought under concern; and I trust, whenever I remove, a blessing will be left behind. This is all of grace. To the glorious giver, purchaser, and applier of it, be all the glory. All was well at Georgia in April, and I hope to be carried comfortably through the southern journey that lies before me.

Christ’s presence shall my pains beguile,

And make each wilderness to smile.

In about a fortnight, God willing, I purpose to set forward. It will be hard parting. But heaven will make amends for all. Blessed be God that matters go on so well at London. If I get more bodily strength, I shall think of another voyage with more comfort. But future things belong to Him, who orders all things for the best. I would trust him for the present day, and not be over solicitous for the morrow. Lord, I believe, help thou my unbelief! Perhaps we may meet once more on this side eternity. They tell me, that the Summers in these northern parts have of late years been very cool. The event will shew. Let it suffice that eternal truth hath assured us, that as our day is so our strength shall be. I know I shall not want your prayers, or the prayers of your dear relatives. Most cordial respects and ten thousand thanks await them all; for indeed none are forgotten by, my very dear Sir,

Yours, &c. &c. in the blessed Jesus,

G. W.

June 7.

Parting here hath been heart breaking: I cannot stand it. I must away for the southward. Mr. T―― C―― hath a packet that will be delivered by a friend. O for heaven! There all will be together with the Lord. Hallelujah!

LETTER MCCCXII.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

New-York, June 25, 1764.

My very dear Friend,

HITHERTO the Lord hath helped me. The New-England winter campaign is over, and I am thus far on my way to Georgia. Mr. Smith, my faithful host, writes thus: “Your departure hence never before so deeply wounded us, and the most of this people; and they are injudicious enough to propose sending a book full of names to call you back. Your enemies are very few, and even they seem to be almost at peace with you. I inclose five prints, which shew what is said of you publicly; but as to private discourse, and secret intercessions, you will willingly and modestly remain ignorant of the one, and, I doubt not, feel sweetly the influences of the other.” I add, even so, Lord Jesus, Amen! To crown the expedition, after preaching at New-Haven college, the President came to me, as I was going off in the chaise, and informed me that the students were so deeply impressed by the sermon, that they were gone into the chapel, and earnestly entreated me to give them one more quarter of an hour’s exhortation. Not unto me, O Lord, not unto me, but unto thy free and unmerited grace be all the glory! At present my health is better than usual, and as yet I have felt no inconvenience from the summer’s heat. Praise the Lord, O my soul! I write this in great haste, but with greater love to you and yours, and to all. I beg leave to subscribe myself, my very dear friend,

Ever yours, &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXIII.

To Mr. W――.

New-York, August 8, 1764.

Dear Sir,

YOUR last, I find, left you soaring aloft. I fancy you like being a Hebrew of the Hebrews. This, I hope, will meet you sitting low at the feet of Jesus, and hearing his words. That is the safest place. He continues good to me, a worthless worm, during this summer season. I have preached twice lately in the fields, and we sat under the blessed Redeemer’s shadow with great delight. Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord! In a short time I move southward. Perhaps in Spring I may embark for England. But future things belong to him who orders all things well. The New-Jerusalem is the place I have in view.

There sin and strife and sorrow cease,

And all is love and joy and peace.

Hearty love to your wife and all dear friends as they come in your way. God bless you all! In Him, who is all in all, I am, dear Sir,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXIV.

To Mr. D――n, &c.

New-York, August 19, 1764.

My very dear Friends,

I HAVE waited with eagerness for another letter. I want a particular account of the necessaries you stand in need of. They might be procured with advantage here or at Philadelphia. I hope you have received the things. Something more will be sent by Schemerron to the care of Mr. H――m. I hear another vessel is expected from Georgia soon. Surely I shall have a line then. I fear it will be the middle of October before I can leave Philadelphia; but, God willing, you shall hear more particularly soon. A never-failing Jesus continues to smile upon my feeble labours, and hath hitherto carried me comfortably through the summer’s heat. Help, O help me to praise him. Pray for us. Tender love to all. Hoping to join with you quickly on earth, and in full assurance of joining with you eternally in heaven, in very great haste, but greater love, I subscribe myself, my very dear friends,

Ever yours, &c. &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXV.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

New-York, August 25, 1764.

My very dear Friend,

STILL am I kept as it were a prisoner in these parts, by the heat of the weather. All dissuade me from proceeding southward till the latter end of September. My late excursions upon Long-Island, I trust have been blessed. It would surprize you to see above a hundred carriages at every sermon in this new world. I am, through infinite mercy, still kept up. Dear Mr. H――y’s packet is not yet come to hand. I wrote to him and my dear wife very lately by a friend in the packet, and I have sent many letters for a letter-day to the care of Mr. E――s in Bristol. I thank dear Mr. L――d for his last by the packet. I wrote to him just before his came to hand. Tender, tender love to your whole self and to all.

Ever theirs, ever yours, &c. &c. in our Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXVI.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Philadelphia, September 21, 1764.

My very dear Friend,

YESTERDAY I had the pleasure of yours by the New-York packet, and can only in return send my repeated thanks for so many repeated favours. After a most solemn and heart-breaking parting at New-York, I am come thus far in my way to Georgia. There I hope to be about Christmas; and in Spring, God willing, to embark for England. Hitherto the Lord hath helped. However, let what will become of the substance, in the mean while I send you my shadow. The painter, who gave it me, having now the ague and fever, and living a hundred miles off, I must get you to have the drapery finished, and then, if judged proper, let it be put up in the Tabernacle parlour. One Captain B―― brings it in the Philadelphia packet, and would most gladly have brought the original over. If you see him, take a little notice of him. I have only preached twice here, but the influence was deep indeed. Grace! grace! Before my further removal hence, I hope for an opportunity of writing to dear Mr. H――y. Two such friends surely could not be picked out, for the London affairs. Tender, most tender love awaits him and all of you. God bless you! God bless you! I am really better in health than I have been these three years. Excuse my not writing to other dear friends; the ship is going, my hands full of business, and I have little more time allowed me than to return you ten thousand thanks, and subscribe myself,

Ever yours, &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

September 23.

Within a few days, but not before, I received the hymn books, and hope to write to other friends in a few days by way of Londonderry. This day has been a good day indeed. Grace! grace!

LETTER MCCCXVII.

To Mr. S―― S――.

Nassau-Hall, September 25, 1764.

My very dear Friend,

AT length I am broke loose from my summer’s retreat, and have preached twice at Philadelphia. Many could say, “This was no other than the house of God, the gate of heaven.” Yesterday I came here, to preach at the commencement to-morrow. Surely it is one of the best regulated institutions in the world. But most importunate calls come from every quarter. So large is the range, that although I have been a twelvemonth in America, I have scarce begun to begin. At present I can only go strait forward, and preach in my way to Georgia. There I hope to be about Christmas. God knows how I am to be disposed of afterwards: whether to England, or to take another tour on the continent, is best known to Him who orders all things well.

To feel his power, to hear his voice,

To taste his love, be all my choice.

Through infinite mercy my bodily health is somewhat improved. Perhaps a few more months itinerating might improve it more. Father, thy will be done! You and yours, I trust, prosper both in soul and body. Tender love and hearty thanks await you, and all enquiring friends. If the person in Mr. D――t’s compting-house, would go over to New-York, he might get a very handsome maintenance in teaching young gentlemen and ladies to read well. O what new scenes open in this new world. In every place the word hath run and been glorified. I could enlarge, but am interrupted. You and yours will continue to pray for me. I retain my old name. I am the chief of sinners, less than the least of all saints, but for Christ’s sake, my very dear friends,

Yours, &c. &c. &c.

G. W.

October 3.

Since writing the above I have received your kind letter. Blessed be God that you and yours are so well in the best sense. The books may be committed to the care of Mr. Mauduit, agent for New-England. That will give you least trouble. It is a good charity. Lord Jesus, accept and bless it. Amen, and Amen!

LETTER MCCCXVIII.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Philadelphia, October 19, 1764.

My very dear Friend,

ACCEPT a few more lines before I set off for my southern tour. My last, in which was a letter for my wife, left New-York last Sunday. The enclosed will inform you a little of my late motions. Pray tell dear Mr. H――y that Dr. S――, the Provost of the Philadelphia college, read prayers for me, and attended me backwards and forwards. Both the present and late Governor, with the head gentlemen of the city, were present, and cordial thanks were sent to me from all the Trustees, for speaking for the children, and countenancing the institution. This is all of God. To me nothing belongs but shame and confusion of face. O for a truly guileless and Israelitish heart! It will be found to be the best policy at the great day. More good news await you in a packet of letters directed to you, and committed to the care of Captain Sparks, of the Elizabeth and Mary. I believe he will deliver them himself; if not, you may send for them. On the reading, I am apt to believe you will think it is almost sinful not to take another tour. Lord Jesus, do thou direct my goings in thy way! He will, he will. But what is become of T―― C――? Mr. R―― my worthy host wrote to him many months ago, about being admitted a member of the society for distributing books among the poor. Not a word of answer yet. Many more want to be members. In a day or two, God willing, I set off for my beloved Bethesda. O what blessings have we received in this place. You will join in crying, Hallelujah, the Lord reigneth, and blessed be the God of our salvation! To his never-failing mercy do I commend you, as being, my very dear friend,

Ever yours, &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXIX.

To C―― H――y, Esq.

New-Brunswick, North-Carolina, November 22, 1764.

My very dear Sir,

THROUGH the tender mercy of a never-failing Redeemer, I am thus far advanced from Philadelphia through Virginia, in my way southward. At Newburn last Sunday, good impressions were made. Several gentlemen after sermon escorted me out of town. From that place to this, I have met with what they call New-lights almost every stage. At Lockwood’s-Folly (an unlikely place as Rome itself) there is to be a general rendezvous of them. This is grace indeed. I am to call to-morrow on a wealthy planter that seems to lead the van. There I shall enquire more particulars. I have the names of six or eight of their preachers. This, with every other place, being open and exceedingly desirous to hear the gospel, makes me almost determine to come back early in the spring. Surely the Londoners, who are fed to the full, will not envy the poor souls in these parts, who scarce know the right hand from the left. As to spiritual things, a few gospel crumbs in journeying, upon the whole, agrees with me. In less than a week I hope to reach Charles-Town; from thence I purpose to write again. Tender love to Mr. and Mrs. B――, and to your whole connections, and all dear dear friends who pray for, and enquire after, my very dear Sir,

Yours, &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXX.

To Mr. J――.

Charles-Town, December 2, 1764.

My dear Mr. J――,

THOUGH I have not had a line from you, since I wrote to you from on board ship, yet I do not forget our old friendship, and therefore was glad to hear by my wife’s letter, that you kept your place in the despised tabernacle, where you and yours have so often met with God. Ere long we shall meet in an upper world,

Where sin and strife and sorrow cease,

And all is calm and joy and peace.

I hope you both enjoy large anticipations of this approaching, uninterrupted, everlasting bliss. Ill and hell-deserving as I am, a never-failing Emmanuel continues kind to me,

His presence doth my pains beguile,

And makes the wilderness to smile.

In a little above a month we came by land from Philadelphia. This morning I am to preach, and to-morrow, God willing, shall set forwards for Georgia. Fain would I be a pilgrim to my last gasp. Continue to pray for me, and remember me most kindly to all friends, as they come in your way, and assure yourselves, my dear Mr. and Mrs. J――, that neither of you are forgotten by,

Yours, &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXXI.

To C―― H――y, Esq.

Savannah, December 19, 1764.

My very dear Sir,

THIS leaves me sitting, where I would be glad dear Mr. H――y, K――n, B――n, &c. were for some moments. They would say, never was a place more commodiously situated for a college. The enclosed will shew you what providential steps have been taken towards it. All done without the least hesitation. The colony is rising very fast, nothing but plenty at Bethesda, and all arrears, I trust, will be paid off before I leave it; so that in a short time I hope to be free from these outward incumbrances. Lord Jesus, shew me whether I must go directly to England, or make another northern excursion. I wish, if I do come over, that Mr. D――n was engaged to stay always in town. Mr. D――s seems to come, only because I am not in London. My spirits will not bear the usual care. I hope your dear relations are better than when you wrote last. Most cordial respects await them, and all dear, very dear friends. I am obliged to Mr. L――d for his favour dated September 24. It came to hand yesterday. I wish the voyage may produce a volume of sermons; but I cannot write when I will. Lord Jesus, do thou rule both heart and hand! Great favour is here given me, in the sight of all. This is the Lord’s doing. In my next you may expect many more particulars. Mr. D――n hath chartered a ship, and sent orders for my having a passage gratis. Thus the great God continues his unmerited goodness to, my very dear Sir,

Ever yours, &c. &c. in Jesus,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXXII.

To Mr. S―― S――.

Bethesda, January 14, 1765.

My very dear Friend,

THROUGH tender mercy, I have been in this province above five weeks. All things, in respect to Bethesda, went on successfully. God hath given me great favour in the sight of the governor, council, and assembly. A memorial was presented for an additional grant of lands, consisting of two thousand acres. It was immediately complied with. Both houses addressed the Governor in behalf of the intended college. As warm an answer was given; and I am now putting all in repair, and getting every thing ready for that purpose. Every heart seems to leap for joy, at the prospect of its future utility to this and the neighbouring colonies. The only question now is, whether I should embark directly for England, or take one tour more to the northward? He that holdeth the stars in his right hand, will direct in due time. I am here in delightful winter quarters. Peace and plenty reign at Bethesda. His Excellency dined with me yesterday, and expressed his satisfaction in the warmest terms. Who knows how many youths may be raised up for the service of the ever-loving and altogether lovely Jesus? Thus far however we may set up our Ebenezer. Hitherto the bush hath been burning, but not consumed.

Blest is faith that waits God’s hour,

Blest are saints that trust his power.

Lord, I believe, help thou my unbelief! You and yours will continue to pray for me. Be pleased to accept this as a small token of acknowledgment for all favours conferred upon, my very dear friend,

Yours, &c. &c. in our glorious Emmanuel,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXXIII.

To Mr. P――e.

Bethesda, February 3, 1765.

My dear Mr. P――e,

YOUR kind letter lies by me. Love unfeigned constrains me to answer it. We have just been wishing that some of our London friends were here. We have love feasts every day. Nothing but peace and plenty reign in Bethesda, this house of mercy. God be praised, for making the chapel such a Bethel. I believe it will yet be a gate of heaven to many souls. Whether we live or die, we shall see greater things. Remember, my dear friend, to ask something worthy of a God to give. Be content with nothing short of himself. His presence alone, can fill and satisfy the renewed soul. Trials only empty the heart, and thereby make way for further communications from above. Seed time and harvest, summer and winter, will always succeed each other here. Do you not find it so, dear Mr. and Mrs. A――r, as well as your friend Mr. P――e? Though you do not write, I will venture to answer for you—Yes.—Well, then let us go on, till we enter into our eternal summer, our uninterrupted harvest. Haste we, haste we; the Lord is at hand! Pray that my tardy pace may be quickened; get all enquiring friends to join with you; and believe me to be, my dear Mr. P――e,

Yours, &c. in our sympathizing Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXXIV.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Bethesda, February 13, 1765.

My very dear Sir,

A FEW days more, and then farewel Bethesda, perhaps for ever. Affairs, as to me, I trust are now brought near a close. The within audit I sent to the G――r. Next day came Lord J. A. G――n, to pay his Excellency a visit. Yesterday morning, they with several other gentlemen favoured me with their company to breakfast. But how was my Lord surprized and delighted! After expressing himself in the strongest terms, he took me aside, and informed me, “that the G――r had shewn him the accompts, by which he found what a great benefactor I had been: that the intended college would be of the utmost utility to this and the neighbouring provinces; that the plan was beautiful, rational, and practicable; and that he was persuaded his M――y would highly approve of, and also favour it, with some peculiar marks of his royal bounty.” At their desire I went to town, and dined with him and the G――r at Savannah. On Tuesday next, God willing, I move towards Charles-Town, leaving all arrears paid off, and some cash in hand, besides the last year’s whole crop of rice, some lumber, the house repaired, painted, furnished with plenty of cloathing, and provision till next crop comes in, and perhaps some for sale. Messrs. D――n, S――k, and their wives, stay till my successors come to supply their places. Only a few boys will be left, and two of them are intended for the foundation. So that this year they will be getting rather than expending. Near ten, boys and girls, have been put out, and the small-pox hath gone through the house, with the loss of about six negroes and four orphans. Before which, I think not above four children have been taken off these twenty-four years. As an acknowledgment of Mr. and Mrs. D――n’s faithfulness and care, I have made them a present of a bill of exchange drawn upon you. It is for Jesus, who shed his dear and precious blood for ill and hell-deserving me. And now it may be, I may see England this summer. But still I cry, who shall roll away the stone? Jesus will do it for me. And now farewel, my beloved Bethesda; surely the most delightfully situated place in all the southern parts of America. I do not forget your dear relations. What a blessed winter have I had! Peace, and love, and harmony, and plenty, reign here. Mr. W――t hath done much in a little time. All are surprized at it. But he hath worked night and day, and not stirred a mile for many weeks. Help, help, my dear English friends, to pray me over, as being, for Christ’s sake, my very dear Sir,

Ever yours, theirs, &c. &c.

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXXV.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Savannah, February 18, 1765.

My very dear Friend,

YESTERDAY we had a most cutting parting at Bethesda; but blessed be God, for giving me to part from it in such comfortable circumstances! All arrears are paid off, cash, stock, and plenty of all kinds of provision before-hand, and under God, no danger, at least for this year, of going back; so that one great load is taken off. What shall I render unto the Lord of all Lords for this and all other his mercies?

Praise God, my soul, even unto death,

And raise a song with every breath.

And now my thoughts turn toward England. As a proof of it, I have sent a box in the Friendship, Captain Ball, directed to you. The things in the box, for the most part, do belong to Mr. W――t, and all of them, if I die in my way to England. That will be a blessed voyage indeed! Brethren, pray for us, pray for us; and assure yourselves of being never forgotten by, my dear old friend,

Yours, theirs, &c. in everlasting bonds,

G. W.

LETTER MCCCXXVI.

To Mr. and Mrs. D――n.

Charles-Town, March 5, 1765.

My very dear dear Friends,

OFTEN have we thought, and talked of, and if it was lawful, wished ourselves at Bethesda again. No place like that for peace, and plenty of every kind. May this find you all enjoying God, and each others company, in a manner the world knows not of! It leaves me in my poor way, aiming to do a little for Him, who hath done and suffered so much for ill and hell-deserving me. People of all ranks fly to the gospel like doves to the windows. The word begins to fall with great weight, and all are importunate for my longer stay. But next week I expect to move. Captain M――r, though waited for near two months, is not yet arrived; Mr. S――n’s Lady comes with him, when you may expect a more particular letter. He sets off for Georgia immediately upon his Lady’s arrival. The negroes shirts, &c. are in hand. O that those Ethiopians may be made to stretch out their hearts unto God! I feel a great compassion for them. Letters from the northward, give sweet accounts of the spreading of the work of God; but I must not enlarge. So many various calls surround me, that I have scarce leisure to dispatch my private business. God bless you! God bless you all in soul and body, in time and eternity! The parting here hath been most affecting and awful. Several presume to prophesy, that I shall certainly and speedily see South Carolina, and my beloved, dearly beloved Bethesda again. I say heartily, Amen! What say you? I shall not wait for an answer. If the Lord Jesus say amen too, it will do. And now for the present, adieu. God bless you, and fill you all with all his fulness! Pray hard for us; pray, if possible, that the glorious Emmanuel would give me to see these parts once more. A blessed work, I trust, is begun. Grace, grace! Perhaps this is not a parting letter. You may hear from me more minutely by the Chief Justice; but who knows what a day may bring forth! A―― H――’s wife died suddenly, a few days before my return hither. Others taken, and I still left. Lord Jesus, quicken my tardy pace! On Friday next, God willing, I shall read prayers and preach in Ashby-Ferry church. Mr. Z――y hath preached well here. Dear, very dear friends, continue to pray for me. Indeed I pray for you night and day; and, God willing, this shall be the constant employ of, my very dear, very dear friends,