LETTERS.

LETTER DCCCCLXV.

To Mr. J―― B――.

London, February 1, 1753.

My very dear friend,

THOUGH I have had no answer to my last, yet I suppose it hath reached your hands, and I am glad to hear that ♦Ephrata plantation is in some degree opened, and thereby a preparation made for a future progress this spring. Mr. Fox not coming, and going upon lumber, hath been a great loss to my poor family, but I hope ere now all is settled, and the sawing carried on with vigour. That seems to be the thing which providence points out at present, and as so many negroes are ready, it will be a pity that Bethesda should not do something, as well as the neighbouring planters. If it was not that I am erecting a large place for public worship, eighty feet square, and am called to preach to so many thousands in various places, I would come over immediately myself. But perhaps it will be best to stay till the new Governor is appointed and embarks, or at least to come a little before him. I hear that Colonel Vanderdison will in all probability be the man; they are determined I find to have a military person. With this, I send your brother a power to dispose of Providence plantation, and I hope to hear shortly that Doctor B――, with your assistance, hath purchased more negroes,—My dear friend, do exert yourself a little for me in this time of my absence, and I trust the Orphan-house affairs will shortly be so ordered, that none shall be troubled about its affairs, but my own domestics. As Nathaniel P―― is so willing, and hath hitherto behaved so faithfully, I have sent him a full power in conjunction with Mrs. W―― to act under you. The man and woman that bring this, are with their son indented to me, and I have an excellent school mistress and a young student, engaged to come over shortly. Ere long, I suppose we shall have a large family. Lord grant it may be a religious one! I would have nothing done in respect to the building, besides repairing the piazza, and what else is absolutely necessary, till I come. Perhaps I may bring a carpenter along with me, who will stay some years. I cannot tell what can induce me to take care of a place, where the gospel is so little regarded, unless it be a principle of faith. Surely it will not always be so. What difference is there between Georgia, and several parts of England? Here thousands and ten thousands run, and ride miles upon miles to hear the gospel.—There—but I do not love to think of it. O my dear friend, whatever others do, may you and your houshold serve the Lord! I see there is no happiness, but in keeping near to Jesus Christ.—But this prosperity,—this worldly mindedness,—how many fools hath it destroyed; how many of God’s own children hath it awfully bewildered! May the Lord keep all my dear friends clear of this dangerous rock! My love to all. How is Mr. V――? Pray do your utmost to bring about a reconciliation between him and Mr. B――. I could give several particular and powerful reasons; at present I can add no more. My dear friend, pray for us, and exert yourself for Bethesda; Bethesda’s God will richly reward you.

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXVI.

To Lady H――n.

London, February 9, 1753.

Ever-honoured Madam,

IT gives me pain, when any of your Ladyship’s letters lie by me unanswered,—I would always write immediately if I could. For many days I have been much engaged, but can now refrain no longer. Your Ladyship’s letter was immediately forwarded to Philadelphia.—It will be an acceptable present to the good old Governor. I wish Mr. T―― may not make too great compliances,—but I fear instability is his weak side. I have not heard from South Audley Street, since I wrote last to your Ladyship.—The Moravian’s outward scheme, I am apt to believe will soon be disconcerted. Strange! Why will God’s children build Babels? Why will they flatter themselves, that God owns and approves of them, because he suffers them to build high? In mercy to them, such buildings, of whatever kind, must come down. I hope our new-intended tabernacle is not of this nature. It would have pleased your Ladyship, to have seen how willingly the people gave last Lord’s day. At seven in the morning we collected fifty pounds, in the evening one hundred and twenty-six pounds. Blessed be God, we have now near nine hundred pounds in hand. He that hath begun, I trust will enable us to go on, and bring out the top-stone, shouting Grace! Grace! Our Lord still continues to work in our old despised place. I trust it hath been a Bethel to many, many souls. This your Ladyship knows may be any where. Clifton’s a Bethel when God is there. That your Ladyship may enjoy more and more of the divine presence, and increase with all the increase of God, is the continual prayer of, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXVII.

To Mr. G――.

London, February 19, 1753.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

I HAVE two of your kind letters lying by me unanswered.—I am not usually so dilatory, but business and bodily weakness have prevented me. At present, I have a cold and fever upon me, but I preach on, hoping one day or another to die in my work. One Mr. Steward, a dear minister of Christ, that began to be popular in the church, entered into his rest last week. I saw him just before he expired. Methinks I hear him say, “Love Christ more, and serve him better.” O that I may do so in earnest! For indeed my obligations increase continually. We have had a blessed winter. Many have been added to our flock.—Next week I intend, God willing, to lay the first brick of our new tabernacle. I am now looking up for direction about my removal.—Which are the best seasons for the north? I should be glad to know speedily. Have you the first account you wrote of your conversion? Or have you leisure to draw up a short narrative of the rise and progress of the work of God in your parts? A dear christian minister in Scotland, is about to publish two volumes, relative to the late awakenings in various places. Such things should be transmitted to posterity; in heaven all will be known. Thanks be to God that there is such a rest remaining for his dear people. I am too impatient to get at it. But who can help longing to see Jesus? What but a hope and prospect of furthering his glorious gospel, can reconcile us to this aceldama, this wide howling wilderness? If we had not our beloved to lean on, what should we do? Go on, my dear Sir, in his strength; I wish you much, yea very much prosperity. The Lord bless you, and all the dear souls in your parts, with all spiritual blessings. I am glad you have received the books. ♦I am now publishing two more sermons, and a small collection of hymns for public worship. Benedictus benedicat et benedicentur. I commend you and all to his never-failing mercy, and myself to your continual prayers, as being, my very dear friend,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXVIII.

To C―― W――.

London, March 3, 1753.

My dear Friend,

I THANK you and your brother most heartily for the loan of the chapel. Blessed be God, the work goes on well.—On Thursday morning, the first brick of our new tabernacle was laid with awful solemnity. I preached from Exodus the twentieth, and the latter part of the twenty-fourth verse; “In all places where I record my name, I will come unto thee and bless thee.” Afterwards we sung, and prayed for God’s blessing in all places, where his glorious name is recorded. The wall is now about a yard high. The building is to be eighty feet square. It is upon the old spot. We have purchased the house, and if we finish what we have begun, shall be rent-free for forty-six years. We have above eleven hundred pounds in hands. This I think is the best way to build. Mr. Steward’s death so affected me, that when I met the workman that night to contract about the building, I could scarce bear to think of building tabernacles. Strange! that so many should be so soon discharged, and we continued! Eighteen years have I been waiting for the coming of the son of God; but I find we are immortal till our work is done. O that we may never live to be ministered unto, but to minister! Mr. Steward spoke for his Lord as long as he could speak at all. He had no clouds nor darkness. I was with him, till a few minutes before he slept in Jesus. I have good news from several parts; a door is opening at Winchester. Surely the little leaven will ferment, till the whole kingdom be leavened. Even so, Lord Jesus, Amen! Pray how does our elect Lady? I hope to write to her Ladyship next post. Joint love attends you and yours, and your brother and his houshold.—That all may increase with all the increase of God, is still the earnest prayer of, my dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER ♦DCCCCLXIX.

To Mr. M――.

London, March 10, 1753.

My dear Mr. M――,

I AM glad you have had such good times. I was grieved that Mr. E―― was taken from London, because Mr. M―― was taken ill, and a carnal preacher put up in his room. But God’s thoughts are not as our thoughts. Let this consideration reconcile you to my not preaching at Mr. B――’s. I went as far as Mrs. S――’s, but so many things occurred, that I went no further. You may hear more when we meet again. I have preached at Spitalfields chapel twice. Both the Mr. W――s are agreed, as the younger brother writes me word, in answer to my letter. Let brotherly love continue! I do not like writing against any body, but I think, that wisdom which dwells with prudence, should direct you not to fill Mr. W――s people (who expect you will serve them) with needless jealousies. He that believeth doth not make haste.—I therefore wait, being assured of this, that every plant which our heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted out. I hope to see the time, when you will talk less of persons and things, and more of Him, who is the common head of his whole mystical body. This, and this alone can make and keep you steady in yourself, and extensively useful to others. I am glad you know when persons are justified. It is a lesson I have not yet learnt. There are so many stony-ground hearers that receive the word with joy, that I have determined to suspend my judgment, till I know the tree by its fruits. You will excuse this freedom. I love you with a disinterested love, I only wish you may be happy in Jesus. This will make you see things with new eyes, and give you such a freedom of heart as is unspeakable, and full of glory. For the present I must bid you adieu. That the Lord of all Lords may confirm, strengthen, stablish, and settle you in his love, is the earnest prayer of, my dear Mr. M――,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXX.

To Mr. S――.

London, March 21, 1753.

My very dear friend,

BY last Monday’s waggon there was sent a box of books. May the Redeemer own and bless what is sent in it! Then all will be well. I know your prayers will not be wanting. I am glad you have found out another thief, that lay hid in the chambers of imagery, which are in your heart. Time and temptation will draw out ten thousand more, which as yet, you know nothing of. Happy they, who can discover, pluck out, and cut off their right hand and right eye corruptions. This must be done, or we shall only take up with the bare semblance of holiness. The Redeemer must sit as a refiner’s fire upon our hearts, or we shall never be purified as gold or silver. This is our comfort, when we are tried we shall come forth like gold. The offences that we meet with in the church, are most trying;—therefore they are permitted to come. I wish my dear Mr. G――, as well as yourself, may learn experience from what hath happened, and never run yourselves into needless difficulties. What is happening to the Moravians is no more than I have long expected, and spoken of to many friends. Their scheme is so antichristian in almost every respect, that I am amazed the eyes of the English brethren have not long since been opened, and the Babel stopt at the first. But the glorious God generally suffers such buildings to go high, that their fall may be more conspicuous. May the builders rise (I mean as to spirituals) by their falls, and gain by their losses! That is all the harm I wish them. My dear man, what a blessed thing it is to live and walk in the simplicity of the gospel! How happy is that man, who being neither fond of money, numbers, nor power, goes on day by day without any other scheme, than a general intention to promote the common salvation amongst people of all denominations. Will you pray that I may be thus minded? I cease not to pray for you and yours, and my other dear friends at Leeds; and I would set out immediately for the north, was I not obliged to be here in about two months, to attend and give further orders about our building. But some time in the summer—What?—I hope to see the fields white, ready unto harvest again, and to rejoice together with you in our common Lord.—In the mean while, let us be busy for so blessed a Master, and be continually pressing forward towards the mark for the prize of our high calling. The Lord Jesus say Amen! Adieu. With joint love to all, I subscribe myself, my dear friend,

Yours most affectionately in our glorious Head,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXI.

To Mr. G――.

Norwich, April 17, 1753.

Dear Mr. G――,

IT hath given me concern, that your letter, with Mr. D――’s and Miss A――’s, have lain by me so long unanswered. Business, and not want of love, hath prevented my writing. Was it not sinful, I could wish for a thousand hands, a thousand tongues, and a thousand lives: all should be employed night and day, without ceasing, in promoting the glory of the ever-lovely, ever-loving Jesus. Thanks be to his great name for reviving his work in the midst of the years. I trust that his people every where will be made to sing, “The Winter is past, the rain is over and gone, the flowers appear on the earth, and the voice of the turtle is heard in the land.” All things promise well at London; and I hope you will yet see greater things than ever in the North. Some time this Summer I hope to see you all again. In the mean while, you must not fail to pray for me. I must now begin to enter upon my Spring circuit. For these three days past, I have been preaching here twice a-day. In the mornings we have been quiet, but in the evenings the sons of Belial have been somewhat rude. The place built here for public worship, is much larger than yours at Newcastle; and, I believe, hundreds of truly awakened souls attend. What cannot God do? What will the end of this be? The destruction of Jericho.—The rams-horns must go round, till her tow’ring walls fall down. Who would but be one of these rams-horns? My dear Sir, let us not be ashamed of the cross of Christ: it is lined with love, and will ere long be exchanged for a crown. Jesus himself will put it on our heads. I am called away, and therefore cannot enlarge. To-morrow, God willing, I return to London, and hope soon to get time to answer my other Newcastle correspondents. In the mean while, pray remember me to them and all in the most cordial manner, and beg them never, never to cease praying for, my dear Sir,

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

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXII.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Norwich, April 18, 1753.

My very dear Friend,

HOW does God delight to exceed even the hopes, and to disappoint the fears of his weak, though honest-hearted people! In spite of all opposition, he hath caused us to triumph even in Norwich. Thousands attend twice every day, and hear with the greatest eagerness. I hope it will appear yet more and more, that God hath much people here. I am greatly importuned to stay over Lord’s-day, but I hope to be in Spitalfields on Saturday evening, and to spend the holydays in London. O that they may prove glorious days of the Son of Man! Thanks be to God, it is the christian’s privilege to keep holyday all the year round. “Christ, our passover, is sacrificed for us,” and we are called to keep a perpetual feast. Happy, happy they, who know what it is to banquet on the love of Jesus. Surely it passeth all understanding. Of this happiness, you and yours have been made partakers. What need have we then to cry out, “What shall we render unto the Lord for all his mercies!” O my dear Sir, let us keep close to our loving Lord, and not suffer the noise and hurry of business, to rob us of one moment’s communion and fellowship with the ever-blessed God. I commend you both to his never-failing mercy; and wishing you, from my inmost soul, the very best of blessings, even the sure mercies of David, I subscribe myself, my dear friend,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXIII.

To Mr. D――.

London, April 27, 1753.

Dear Sir,

ON Saturday evening a never-failing Redeemer brought me safe to London, where I have been indisposed ever since. But I shall little regard the weakness and indisposition of my body, if I can but have the pleasure of hearing, if not before, yet at the great day, that good was done to one precious soul at Norwich. Blessed be God for the seed sown there. I doubt not but it will be watered with the dew of his heavenly blessing, and bring forth a divine increase. O that it may spring up, and bear fruit abundantly in the heart of you and yours! My poor prayers shall not be wanting in your behalf. This is the only return I can make to you both, for the great kindnesses conferred on me at your house. You know who hath promised, “That a cup of cold water, given for his name’s sake, shall not lose its reward.” What a Saviour is this! Who would but love and serve him! Surely his service is perfect freedom! I hope all my dear Norwich friends will find it so every day. Be pleased to salute them all most affectionately, as they come in your way. I trust they will remember me at the throne of grace. You all know my name: I am the chief of sinners, and less than the least of all saints, but

Their and your obliged friend, and ready servant for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXIV.

London, May 1, 1753.

My dear David,

DO you enquire where I am? I answer, in London, longing to come to Leeds, and yet withheld hitherto by His providence who ordereth all things well. Let us have a little more patience, and then in a few weeks I hope to have a blessed range in the North. God’s time I have always found to be the best time in the end. Ere now, I suppose, Mr. L―― hath received my letter from Norwich. The word ran and was glorified there. Preaching so frequently, and riding hard, almost killed me; but what is my body in comparison of precious and immortal souls? O that this Spring may prove a Spring-time every day! Indeed I want to begin to begin to do something for Jesus. At present I am engaged in a very ungrateful work; I mean, in writing against the leading Moravian brethren. When you see it, you will know whether there was not a cause: a second edition of the pamphlet is just come out. I fear the third part of the Journals cannot be procured: perhaps it is not much matter. I am sick of all I do, and stand astonished that the Redeemer still continues to make use of and bless me. Surely I am more foolish than any man; no one receives so much, and does so little. If you was here, we would weep together: friends know what it is to exchange hearts. May the common friend of sinners keep both our hearts near himself, and then all will be well. I cannot think of Leeds without weeping. I love that people, and pray that they may increase with all the increase of God. “Brethren, pray for us,” is still the earnest request of my poor heart. I am weaker than the weakest, less than the least of all. Write to me; I do not like your sending such round-about ways: friends letters always pay postage. O let us send often by post to heaven; I mean, on the wings of faith and love: from thence we shall assuredly receive good answers, though not always in our own way or time. For the present, farewel. My hearty love to all the true followers of the Lamb. I hope to write to all in time. In great haste, but much greater love, I subscribe myself,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXV.

To Mr. S――.

Haverford-west, May 27, 1753.

My dear Man,

THOUGH my wife hath not sent me the letter, yet she writes me, “That you have sent me a threatening one.” I thank you for it, though unseen, and say unto thee, if thou art thus minded, “What thou doest, do quickly.” Blessed be God, I am ready to receive the most traiterous blow, and to confess before God and man, all my weaknesses and failings, whether in public or private life. I laid my account of such treatment, before I published my expostulatory letter.—And your writing in such a manner, convinces me more and more, that Moravianism leads us to break through the most sacred ties of nature, friendship, and disinterested love. But my wife says you write, “That I am drunk with power and approbation.” Wast thou with me so long, my dear man, and hast thou known me no better? What power didst thou know me ever to grasp at? Or what power am I now invested with? None, that I know of, except that of being a poor pilgrim. And as for approbation, God knows, I have had little else besides the cross to glory in, since my first setting out.—May that be my glory still! But my wife says you write, “That I promised not to print.” I remember no such thing. I know you advised me not to do so, but I know of no promise made. If I remember, I had not then read Rimius; but after that, I both heard and saw so many things, that I could not, with a safe conscience, be silent. My wife says likewise, that you write, “The bulk of my letter is not truth.” So says Mr. Peter B――; nay, he says, “that all is a lie:” and I hear he declares so in the pulpit. So that whether I will or not, he obliges me to clear myself in print; and if he goes on in this manner, will not only constrain me to print a third edition, but also to publish the dreadful heap that lies behind. My answers to him, the Count, and my old friend H――, are almost ready. I cannot send them this post, but may have time ere long. O my dear man, let me tell thee, that the God of truth and love hates lies: and that cause can never be good, which needs equivocations and falshoods to support it. God willing, you shall have none from me. I have naked truth. I write out of pure love: and the Lord Jesus only knows, what unspeakable grief and pain I feel, when I think how many of my dear friends have so involved themselves. If any thing stops my pen, it will be concern for them, not myself. I value neither name, nor life itself, when the cause of God calls me to venture both. Thanks be to his great name, I can truly say, that for these many years last past, no sin hath had dominion over me; neither have I slept with the guilt of any known, unrepented sin lying upon my heart: if you will tell me of any, I will be obliged to you. In the mean while, I wish thee well in body and soul, and subscribe myself, my dear John,

Your very affectionate, though injured, friend for Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXVI.

To Mr. R―― K――n.

Newman, June 2, 1753.

DO not think that I have forgotten either you or yours, or my promise of writing to you. Travelling and preaching have prevented me. Within a little more than a fortnight, I have rode three hundred and fifty miles, and preached above twenty times: with what success the great day will discover. Then we shall know who are stony-ground hearers, and who receive the word into honest and good hearts. At Narboth, Pembroke, Haverford-west, &c. congregations were large; and a gracious melting seemed to be among the people. Nature now cries out for a little ease, but faith says, “It is now just time to begin to begin.” Perhaps you may hear me preach next Thursday evening. London people attract me much. O that our hearts may be more and more drawn towards Jesus! I hope this will find you (like the impression of my seal) with your soul winged for heaven, and this poor, earthly, good-for-nothing world, under your feet. Could I fly away, you should never see me till we meet at the right hand of God. There the wicked, and even my own mother’s children, nay my spiritual children, will cease from troubling me, and my weary soul will enjoy an everlasting rest. I can now no more. I am baiting at an inn not far from Gloucester, hoping shortly to see you and yours grown in grace; and begging all your dear relations to accept hearty love, I subscribe myself, my dear, dear friend,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXVII.

To Mr. ――.

London, June 8, 1753.

My very dear Friend,

I WAS glad, at my return from a late excursion, to find a letter from you, especially as it bespoke your heart to be nearer than usual to the ever-loving, ever-lovely Jesus. May this intimacy increase daily, and the fruits of it appear in your abounding in every good word and work! I find more and more, that one’s whole life ought to be a continued sacrifice of love. I am glad Mr. R―― is owned. This gives me hopes, that he begins to preach as when he first set out, and as he told a friend, a little before his embarking, “that he hoped he should.” It never went better with his heart than then. God keep him and all from further entanglements by fleshly wisdom and worldly policy! which I think have nothing to do with the work of the Lord. Mr. S―― can tell you what concern the B――n’s awful conduct hath given me. Surely if the Redeemer had not supported me, I should within these two months have died with grief. But I will say no more:—Jesus knows all things. He will not long bear with guile. You know my temper. The Lord help me in simplicity and godly sincerity to have my conversation in the world, and in the church! By this time twelvemonth (if in the land of the dying) I hope to see you. In the mean while, let Mr. S―― speak. I hope he hath succeeded to his wishes; and I pray earnestly that the God of the seas and of the dry land, may bring him safe to the desired haven. Ere long we shall all arrive, I trust, in Abraham’s harbour; from thence we shall never put out to sea any more. There the wicked world, and even God’s own children, will cease from troubling, and our weary souls enjoy an everlasting rest. May you and yours enter with a full gale! Let us write to, though we cannot as yet see each other. Our hearty love and respects await Mr. P――, and all enquiring friends. I am glad to hear Mr. T―― is coming over with Mr. D――. If they come with their old fire, I trust they will be enabled to do wonders. I and Messrs. W――’s are very friendly. I like them, because they go out and let the world see what they are at once; I suspect something wrong, when so much secrecy is required. But I must have done. Only let me tell you, that the Redeemer still owns my feeble labours. I have been a circuit of about 700 miles, and preached to many thousands. My body yet is upheld, and my soul rejoices in God my Saviour. Help me, help me to praise him. I thank you for what you have done for Mr. H――, and for all past favours. That grace, mercy and peace may be multiplied upon you and yours, every day and hour, is the earnest prayer of, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXVIII.

To Lady H――n.

London, June 20, 1753.

Ever-honoured Madam,

I HAVE been unaccountably detained in London longer than I expected, but am just now setting out for Portsmouth. However, I cannot help sending your Ladyship the inclosed. It hath set me at liberty, and fully convinced me, against what a disguised spirit I have been testifying. At present, I shall go on in my old way, preaching the everlasting gospel. Blessed be God, it is successful here. We had a most glorious sacrament last Sunday in our new Tabernacle; the Master of the feast was with us of a truth. As I purpose returning from Portsmouth next Tuesday, I should think myself highly honoured by receiving a few lines from your Ladyship. May this find you in the blissful enjoyment of him, who I am persuaded is your Ladyship’s all in all! I can only add, that words cannot well express how much I am, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXIX.

To the Reverend Mr. T――.

Portsmouth, June 23, 1753.

My very dear Friend,

FROM April to near July, is a long time for a kind letter to lie by unanswered; but necessity hath no law. A great variety of circumstances hath occurred lately to prevent my corresponding with you, and many other dear friends. Some time next month perhaps you may be acquainted with them. I have thoughts of seeing Edinburgh then, though I must push hard to bring it about. I purpose at my return, to stay in London but one night, and then set out for the North. O for a gracious gale of divine influence! The sacred wind hath blown sweetly in our new Tabernacle; and I trust it will be said of this and that man, at the great day, that they were born of God there. At Bristol, in Wales, and Gloucestershire, our Lord was pleased to smile on my feeble labours; and here in this place are several who bring forth fruit unto God. Affairs go on well at Bethesda. Mr. T――, I find, is coming over in behalf of New-Jersey College. Lord, make us all flames of fire! The language of my soul is this, “Quicken me in thy way.” You must continue to pray for me; you must remember me in the kindest manner to all my dear friends, and to your father and relations in particular, as being assured, that I am, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXX.

To Mr. N――.

Portsmouth, June 23, 1753.

Dear Sir,

NOT want of love, but leisure, prevented my answering your kind letter much sooner. As I lead a pilgrim life, have a weak body, and am almost continually surrounded with a variety of trials and temptations, I cannot write so frequently as I otherwise would choose to do. However, my friends are always upon my heart and some time next month, I hope to see you, amongst the rest of my Edinburgh acquaintances, grown in grace, and upon the full stretch for Him who bled, and groaned, and died for us. If your trials are not over, and you have indeed entered upon the field of battle, I wish you joy. Fear not, neither be dismayed. Nil desperandum Christo duce. Let this be the language of your heart and mine:

Give me strength, O God of power,

Then let winds blow or thunders roar;

Thy faithful witness will I be:

’Tis fix’d—I can do all through Thee.

I need not inform you, dear Sir, that our Lord hath chosen the weak things of this world to confound the strong; and things that are not, to bring to nought the things that are. If it was not so, what should such a poor, weak, helpless wretch as I am do? In Jesus, and in him alone, is all my strength and support found. Still he continues to uphold me, and crown my feeble labours with success. In Wales, Gloucestershire, and Bristol, we have lately felt his power; and in our new Tabernacle at London, he hath also manifested forth his glory. O for a good gale in the North! Who knows but we may see each other some time the next month? I have thoughts of setting forwards from London next week. May the good Lord direct my goings in his way! You must desire all of the hospitals, and in the society, and all my other dear friends, to pray most earnestly for me. I retain my old name: I am the chief of sinners, and less than the least of all saints, but for Christ’s sake, dear Mr. N――,

Their and your most affectionate and willing friend and servant,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXXI.

To Mr. S――.

Leicester, July 1, 1753.

My very dear Friend,

I CANNOT go farther (as Mr. Middleton returns to London to-morrow) without sending you a few lines. They bring good news, even that the Redeemer hath much owned and blessed the first part of my circuit. At Oulney we had two good meetings; and at Northampton our Lord filled his people as with new wine. One aged saint told me, “that the meeting-place was no other to him than the house of God, and the gate of heaven.” Several thousands attended; and I could indeed say, “It is good for me to be here.” Last night I came to this place quite fatigued in my body, but willing, I hope, to employ a thousand souls (if I had them) for the dear Lord Jesus. This is a cold place, but people stood very attentive this morning, and some were affected. To-morrow I must move to Nottingham. You and yours must promise to follow me with your prayers. I hope you will hear that they are answered. You may be assured of mine; they are your due; they are a poor, but as they are the only return I can make, I hope they will be accepted by, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXXII.

To Mr. S――.

Leeds, July 7, 1753.

My dear D――,

WHAT! just come from the borders of the grave, and still capitulating! Will you never give up your whole heart to Him, who hath dealt so bountifully with you? Was this once done, you would not (especially as you have a competency) talk of a hundred a year, but you would count the work of the ministry its own wages, and esteem the reproach of Christ above all the riches in the universe. Pray remember what Moses said to Pharaoh, “not a hoof must be left behind.” Christ will have all or none. Halt no longer between two; sin no more by withholding from God what is his just due, lest a worse evil befall you. Accept all this in love. Your letter hath extorted it from me. I pity you amidst all your gaudy shew. The pleasure I have had but this week in preaching the gospel, I would not part with for a thousand worlds. Blessed be God, we have had sweet seasons on the road; and last night at this place, the cups of many ran over. O Lord, keep me a pilgrim, till thou art pleased to call me home! I can now no more. My hearty love to our dear Mr. H――. O that you was like-minded with him! Accept this as from one, who is indeed, dear Sir,

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

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXXIII.

York, July 11, 1753.

My dear Mr. D――,

THUS far, but no farther, am I as yet advanced in my way to Scotland, and was I to comply with the pressing invitations of the Yorkshire people, I know not when I should get there. The fields are exceeding white, ready unto harvest; but by preaching thrice a day to great multitudes, my poor tabernacle is enfeebled, and I have such a cold that I cannot well write much. Strange, that I can do no more for Him who hath done and suffered so much for me! Be pleased to remember me to all; and acquaint dear Mr. and Mrs. S――, that I hope to send them an historical letter from Newcastle, where I expect to be next Lord’s-day. I shall be glad to hear that your soul prospers, and that all goes on well at the Tabernacle. I hope to see Edinburgh next week. My hearty love to all. Accept the same yourself, from, dear Mr. D――,

Your affectionate friend and servant for Jesus Christ’s sake,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXXIV.

To Mr. S――.

Newcastle, July 14, 1753.

My very dear Sir,

BEING, through the goodness of a never-failing Redeemer, just come hither, I sit down to perform my promise by writing to you. But where shall I begin, or where shall I end? Surely the goodness of the Lord to such a wretch as I am, is unspeakable. I will inform you of a little. After leaving Leicester, I went to Nottingham, where a great multitude came to hear, and I trust good was done, though a son of Belial endeavoured to disturb us. From thence I went to Sheffield, where we had two good meetings. The congregation in the afternoon consisted of several thousands. Here some dear friends from Leeds met me, two of which were my spiritual children, and all had been blessed under the word. The next morning we set out for Leeds, and in our way preached at Rotheram and Wakefield. At the former place, I had been disturbed twice or thrice, and was almost determined to preach there no more. But we are poor judges. A person told me, ♦“That God had made me instrumental in converting his wife and brother,” who had both been bitter persecutors, but now gladly received me under their roof. After preaching, a young man was set at liberty, who had been groaning under the spirit of bondage four years; and whilst I was baptizing a child, the Holy Spirit was pleased to baptize several, one in particular with a holy fire. What we saw, and felt, and heard at Leeds, cannot well be expressed. Thousands attended daily; and on the Lord’s-day it was computed that near twenty thousand heard at once. I preached thrice, and the next day at ♠Burstall and Bradford, where many thousands flocked also. Many were filled as with new wine; and as for myself, I scarce knew whether I was in heaven or on earth. On Tuesday morning, though we had drank plentifully before, yet our Lord kept the good wine till the last. We had a glorious parting-blessing. At York I preached four times. Twice we were disturbed, and twice we had sweet seasons. There is a good work begun there. The prospect all around is so glorious, I almost repent that I have engaged to go to Scotland. God willing, I shall come back as fast as possible. What a pity is it that I have but one body, and that a very weak one too. Lord, magnify thy strength in my weakness, and send me where thou wilt. Here I am most kindly received. How the Lord will be pleased to deal with me, you may know hereafter. I can now only entreat the continuance of the prayers of you and yours; and with repeated thanks for repeated favours, beg leave to subscribe myself, my very dear friend,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXXV.

To Lady H――—n.

Newcastle, July 17, 1753.

Ever-honoured Madam,

I WROTE to your Ladyship just before I set out for Portsmouth, and thought to have written again at my return, but was hindered by staying only one night at London. Ever since I have been upon the range for lost sinners, and blessed be God, have been much owned by him who delights to work by the meanest instruments. In Northamptonshire our cup ran over. In Leicester, the Redeemer caused us to triumph; and in Yorkshire, at Leeds and the adjacent places, I have sometimes scarce known whether I have been in heaven or earth. I have been enabled to preach thrice a day, and once at Leeds, perhaps to near twenty thousand, as they were computed. Indeed we kept holy-day there. Many came to me that were awakened at my former visits. Not unto me, O Lord, not unto me, but unto thy free and unmerited mercy be all the glory! In my way hither I preached four times at York; twice we were disturbed, and twice all was quiet; and a sweet influence attended the word. I lodged at Mrs. G――’s, who keeps steady. She enquired most heartily after your Ladyship, and begged to be remembered in the most respectful manner. Hither I came on Saturday, and have preached seven times, and once at Sunderland, where a great multitude attended, and were deeply impressed. At five in the morning the great room is filled, and on Lord’s-day the congregation without was great indeed. Surely the shout of a king hath been amongst us. All is harmony and love. I am now going to a place called Sheep-hill, and shall return in the evening to preach here again. To-morrow, God willing, I set forwards to Scotland. I could almost wish this was to be the end of my circuit, for I want to go to various parts. Lord Jesus, magnify thy strength in my weakness, and send me where thou wilt! If your Ladyship pleases, this may be communicated to C―― W――, to whom I would write if I had time. I can only now entreat the continuance of your Ladyship’s prayers, and beg your Ladyship’s acceptance of repeated acknowledgments for repeated favours, from, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER [DCCCCLXXXV.]

To Mr. G――, at Glasgow.

Edinburgh, July 21, 1753.

YOURS I just now received, but know not what to say by way of answer. The inward discouragements I have felt for above a week, against coming to Scotland, have been very many. I have left a people full of fire. Thousands and thousands flocked to hear the glorious gospel. Awakenings I have heard of in every place; saints have been revived, and heaven as it were come down on earth. We have enjoyed perpetual Cambuslang seasons. My eyes gush out with tears of joy, (and I trust at the same time with godly sorrow for my vileness) at the very thought of it. My heart is quite broken, to think poor Scotland is so dead. O how gloomy hath been the aspect! I have been afraid of catching cold, though, alas! I am too too cold towards Him, who out of warm love bled and died for me. O that Glasgow friends, if I do come, may pray for me! I could scarce believe your letter, that your people would be glad to see such an ill and hell-deserving, good for nothing creature as I am. If I lose the opportunity of seeing you, I shall be disappointed indeed. I believe I shall keep to the time proposed. O time, time, how slowly dost thou go on! When shall I be wafted to an happy eternity? Often within these three weeks have I hoped to die in the embraces of my God. Had I a thousand souls and bodies they should be all itinerants for Jesus Christ. I want to see all on a flame of fire. You know, dear Sir, what fire I mean. O! break heart strings, break, and let the imprisoned soul be set at liberty. I want to go where I shall neither sin myself, nor see others sin any more. My tender love to all. I can no more for weeping. When I forget to pray for my ungrateful vile self,—then will my worthy and dear friend cease to be remembered by, reverend and very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXXVI.

To Mr. B―― S――.

Glasgow, July 25, 1753.

BOTH your letters came safe to hand, and met with such a reception, as none but those who are knit together in the love of God can either experience, or have any idea of. What you mentioned concerning a certain gentleman, melted me down.—For having met with some unexpected pull-backs, I last night and this morning had been praying, that relief might come from what quarter our Lord thought most proper. How true is the saying of Luther:

Fix on his work thy stedfast eye,

So shall thy work be done.

This, I trust, will teach me more and more to be disinterested in what I do for Christ and souls, and then never fear; even ravens shall be sent to feed and nourish upright Elijahs. But above all, am I humbled and comforted at the good news from Leeds, and York. And will the high and lofty one then continue to delight to honour such a wretch as I am? Then, through the divine strength, let me now begin to preach more than ever. Yesterday I was enabled to preach five times, and I suppose the last time to near twenty thousand, and almost to as many in the morning. People flock and are more fond than ever to hear; at Edinburgh also, I preached twice every day to many thousands; among whom are many of the noble and polite.—Attention sits upon the faces of all, and friends come round me like so many bees, to importune for one week longer stay in Scotland. But I think I am fixed. God willing, on Thursday I return to Edinburgh, and the Tuesday following shall set out for Berwick, &c. Haste, time! Fly, fly on (so that I can but keep pace by filling thee up with duty) and bring me to see the face of God in heaven. I hope to write again soon; then you will know my rout. O that Jesus may direct my goings in his way! He will, he will. He will never leave nor forsake those that put their trust in him; and he knows, that as far as I know my heart, I think his work the very best wages that can be given to,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXXVII.

To Mr. G――, at Glasgow.

Newcastle, August 12, 1753.

My very dear Sir,

I WOULD have answered your kind letter before I left Edinburgh, but I had not a moment’s leisure. With great difficulty I got away, after a heart-breaking parting on Tuesday about noon. On Wednesday evening, and the Thursday morning, I preached at Berwick, and on Thursday evening at Alnwick, in the street. It being the time of the races, I discoursed on these words, “So run that ye may obtain.” Whilst I was discoursing, the gentlemen came down from the race, and surrounded the congregation, and heard very attentively. The next morning at five I preached again, and about noon at a place called Placy, and in the evening about nine at Newcastle, where a great number expected me. My text was “At midnight a cry was made, behold the bridegroom cometh.” The next morning I received the following note, “Dearly beloved in the Lord, I write to you good news. Your labour was not in vain last night, for my wife answered to the midnight cry, and received Christ into her soul.” O that we may all praise the Three in One! Last night I prepared for, and this morning I opened the gospel fair from these words, “Ho! every one that thirsteth.” Much of the divine presence was in the congregation, and I believe many tasted of Christ’s wine. I am to preach three times almost every day this week. This promise supports me. “As thy day is, so shall thy strength be.” By the inclosed, you will see the devil owes me a grudge for what was done at Glasgow. Would it not be proper to insert a paragraph to contradict it? Thousands and thousands come to hear notwithstanding. Lord, what am I? A poor hell-deserving creature; and yet the Lord makes use of such to thresh the mountains with. May the Lord help me so to do, and then let him deal with me as seemeth good in his sight. Please to remember us in the kindest manner to dear Mr. M――n, our kind host and hostess, and all friends. I shall not forget you and yours, or your undertaking. The Lord prosper this, and every other work of your hands upon you! My lot is to be a pilgrim, a run-about for Christ. Commend me to Him who gives strength to the weak, and for whose sake I am,

Yours most affectionately,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCLXXXVIII.

To Mr. B―― S――.

Newcastle, August 13, 1753.

My very dear Friend,

MY rout is now fixed. After having preached here and hereabouts three times each day, I am to leave this place on Thursday, to be at Stockton on Sunday, at Osmotherly on Monday noon, lie at Topcliff, and reach York, God willing, by way of Burrough-bridge, on Tuesday next, and then come forwards to Leeds. I trust that our meeting will be like that of Jonathan and David. Only sometimes I must change names; where it is said “David exceeded,” there I will be David, and you Jonathan. Where Jonathan exceeds, there I will be Jonathan and you David. But more of this hereafter.—I must now tell you good news. I could not finish this letter last night, it is now Tuesday morning. But surely heaven came down amongst us, under the last evening preaching: it was almost too much for my body. O that the prison door was set open, and the bird suffered to fly out of the cage! Then would I fly to heaven, and upon one of the boughs of free grace sing the praises of redeeming love for ever and for ever. Till then, may we be employed in singing here on earth! But I must away to Horsey to preach, from whence I am to return to preach again in the evening. Thrice a day tries me, but in the Lord have I righteousness and strength. If you hear of a mob’s being raised by my preaching at Glasgow, assure all your friends that there was none, but Satan owes me a grudge for speaking against the playhouse. Particulars expect when we meet. In the mean while, give my tender love to all, and forget not to pray for, my dear friend.

Yours in our precious Christ,

G. W.

LETTER ♦DCCCCLXXXIX.

To Lady H――.

Newcastle, August 13, 1753.

Ever-honoured Madam,

NOT want of respect, but leisure, hath prevented my writing to your Ladyship. Since my last, I have been travelling and preaching twice or thrice, and once five times a day. I cannot tell your Ladyship of one thousandth part of what we have seen and felt. In Scotland the congregations were larger than ever. At Glasgow, the man who owned the playhouse was made so uneasy by the word preached, that he took down the roof himself. For this Satan owes me a grudge, and therefore it is put in the paper, that a mob was raised. But there was not the least appearance of any such thing. Our weapons are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of Satan’s strong-holds. At Newcastle our Lord fills his people with new wine. Last night much of heaven was let down into the congregation. I am now going into the country, and am to return in the evening to preach. Thrice a day is almost too much for this weak tabernacle, but in the Lord have I righteousness and strength. Next week I am to be at York; the word I find fastens. On Sunday I hope to see Mr. H――. Ere long I hope to see our common Lord in glory. O that I may be one day lifted up from the pulpit to the throne. Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit; deal with me as seemeth good in thy sight! I doubt not but he deals bountifully with your Ladyship; that you and yours may greatly increase with all the increase of God, is the earnest prayer of, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCXC.

To Lady F―― S――.

Leeds, August 23, 1753.

Honoured Madam,

HITHERTO the Lord hath helped me. Blessed be his glorious name, the fields have been every where white, ready unto harvest. I have been of late generally enabled to preach thrice a day, and in all appearance the word never was attended with more success. Satan rages and belies me, about the taking down the Glasgow play-houses; but I hope my letter lately published in the Newcastle journal, will set all things right. Thanks be to God, without the assistance of mobs and riots, (which my soul abhors) the christian’s weapons, through divine assistance, are mighty to the pulling down of Satan’s strong-holds. Alas! how many of these hath he gotten in every unregenerate person’s heart! Blessed be his holy name for any begun conquests there; surely his name is wonderful that hath done it. What a miracle of grace is it, honoured Madam, that a spark of fire should be kept in, amidst an ocean of corruption! that the bush should burn, and yet not be consumed! Such a standing miracle I trust your Ladyship will be. To be a martyr, a living witness for Jesus, amidst the tip-top allurements of high life—by this we prove the strength of Jesus to be ours indeed. May the Lord of all Lords help you, honoured Madam, to hold on and hold out. My prayer to him for you is, “That your progress may be made known to all men, and that you may increase with all the increase of God.” Glory be to free grace, I find the happiness of the divine life an increasing happiness indeed.—Lately our common Lord hath taken his people into the banqueting house, and caused their cup of consolation to run over. Surely we have been in the suburbs of heaven: ere long we shall enter into the city itself. Our Lord is gone before to prepare the way. To the tender and never-failing mercy of this gracious forerunner, do I humbly and heartily recommend your Ladyship, as being, honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCXCI.

To Lady H――n.

York, September 11, 1753.

Ever-honoured Madam,

LAST Saturday I returned to Leeds, from whence I had been absent a fortnight. But what the glorious Emmanuel gave us to see and feel, is indeed inexpressible. What a sacrament at Howarth! We used thirty-five bottles of wine on the occasion. I have been as far as Bolton, Manchester, and Stockport. At the last place so much of the divine presence came amongst us, that it was almost too much for our frail natures to bear; at the former, our cup was also made to run over. Every where the congregation looked like swarms of bees, and the more I preached the more eager they seemed to be. At ♦Burstall last Lord’s day, perhaps there were near twenty thousand, and on Monday morning at Leeds, the parting was the most affecting I ever saw: it has been almost too much for me. I have not as yet half recovered it. Lord, hasten the time when thy people shall part no more! Last night I came hither, and preached with quietness. This morning I am setting out for Lincolnshire, and have some thoughts of taking a trip to Ireland. Lord Jesus, what am I that I should be called to go out into the high-ways and hedges? Besides travelling, I have been enabled to preach thrice a day frequently. Arrows of conviction have fled, and of souls I hear scores have been awakened; they tell me that a hundred have been added to Sunderland society. O that the leaven may ferment till the whole be leavened! Never did I see the work more promising. God be merciful to me a sinner, and give me, for his infinite mercy’s sake, an humble thankful and resigned heart! Surely I am viler than the vilest, and stand amazed at his employing such a wretch as I am; but his name is Love. I could enlarge, but must away to preach. Ever-honoured Madam, let me intreat the continuance of your prayers, and thereby increase the innumerable obligations already conferred on the unworthiest of the sons of men, but, for Christ’s sake, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCXCII.

To Lady H――.

London, September 26, 1753.

Ever-honoured Madam,

YESTERDAY about noon, a good and never-failing Redeemer brought me and mine in safety to town, where I expect to stay only a few days. Thanks be to God for this last circuit! I think this day three months I left London; since which time I have been enabled to travel about twelve hundred miles, and to preach about one hundred and eighty sermons to many, very many thousands of souls. More glorious seasons I never saw; parting has almost killed me. My last excursion hath been to York, Lincolnshire, Rotheram, Sheffield, Nottingham, Northampton, where I believe near ten thousand souls came to hear last Lord’s day. It was a Lord’s day indeed. Praise the Lord O my soul! I hope your Ladyship received Governor B――’s letter. I hear that your Ladyship hath honoured me with one, but find it is gone to Nottingham; I expect it to-morrow; but though somewhat fatigued, could not omit thanking your Ladyship to-night for this and all other favours. Innumerable are my obligations.—But the all-gracious and all-glorious Jesus must discharge them for me. My poor prayers, is the only pepper-corn I have got to offer by way of acknowledgment. O that I could do something to express my gratitude! By the help of my God, I will now begin to begin to love him. I am sure it is high time.—And in doing so, and studying to promote by my feeble letters his glory and the good of souls, I shall make the best return your Ladyship desires. I have some thoughts of seeing Ireland; the Lord direct my goings in his way! I must now wish your Ladyship a good night. My wife joins in sending most dutiful respects, with, ever-honoured Madam,

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

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCXCIII.

To Mr. D――.

Northampton, October 7, 1753.

WHAT! have the birds of prey been pursuing, pecking at, and wounding one of Christ’s doves? Come, my dear man, play the man, be strong in the grace which is in Christ Jesus, and be not like a silly dove that hath no heart. Look to him, and you shall be saved;

He will give strength, he will give power,

He will in time set free.

These enemies which so perplex us, ere long, blessed be God, we shall see no more. Pharaoh and his host shall be drowned in the sea.

Through Christ we shall

Break through them all,

And sing the song of Moses.

Courage then, my dear Mr. D――; Christ’s blood shall yet purge out all remaining gall. Alas! alas! how little do we know of our hearts? What feathers are we, when tossed in the wind of temptations? What greater and greater abominations shall we find, when the spirit leads us more and more into the chambers of imagery that are within us! We shall find, that, comparatively speaking, we know nothing as we ought to know. O my ignorance! my ignorance! My leanness, my leanness! Pray for me, dear Mr. D――, and salute all dear friends in my name. I will write as soon as I can. My stay in London was but short, yet I trust profitable and sweet to many. The new tabernacle was filled with God’s glory under the word preached, on the letter day, and at sacrament. I am now bound for Staffordshire; follow me with your prayers, and believe me to be

Your affectionate sympathizing friend, in our dear Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCXCIV.

To Mr. S――.

Northampton, October 10, 1753.

My very dear Sir,

IT is now near eleven at night, and I am to ride beyond Coventry to-morrow: but I cannot close my eyes without sending you a short account of my week’s work. On Saturday last, I preached at Oulney, and had a blessed season. On the Lord’s day we had two glorious opportunities in this place, where the congregations were much larger than before. On Monday I went to Oxen near Harborough; it was their feast-day, but if I mistake not, some of their feasting was spoiled. In the evening I preached at Bosworth; the congregation was large as well as that at Oxen, and the power as great. About nine at night I got to Kettering, where I preached the next morning to many souls; the Redeemer gave us a spiritual breakfast. About five in the evening I reached Bedford, and preached in the Green last night, and this morning. This afternoon we had another blessed season at Oulney, and this evening I sojourn here, in order to set out for Birmingham to-morrow. A new scene of usefulness hath opened this week. O that nothing may retard me in my pilgrim life! It is worse than death to me, to be stopt in that. You, my dear Sir, are called to trade, I to travel for my God. Whilst trading, you are in effect travelling and preaching to thousands; for you greatly strengthen my hands in the Lord. Great shall be your reward in heaven. O what a bountiful master do we serve! I am loath to go to sleep, and yet this vile body stands in need of it. My dear, very dear Sir, good night. God bless you and yours. I pray for your dear yoke-fellow, and little maid, incessantly. As you learnt long ago to look through and above unworthiness, I must still beg you to increase my obligations, by following with your prayers.

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCXCV.

To Dear A――.

Birmingham, October 13, 1753.

“HAVING loved his own, he loved them unto the end,” says the beloved disciple, concerning Jesus Christ. I would copy after this great exemplar, and have my love like his, steady and disinterested. Thus you have found, and I trust always will find my love to you. Works speak better than words. I am reposing the utmost confidence in you and yours. You are going to assist in a house, built in answer to millions of prayers, and which I doubt not, will prove a blessing to many that are now unborn. Look upon it in this light; think of the honour God is conferring upon you; then you will launch into the deep with a holy confidence, and when arrived at your wished for port, will behave with humility, disinterestedness, integrity and diligence. You need not ask any prayers, they will follow after you, though you should even fly upon the wings of the wind. I have pawned my word for your good behaviour in every respect, and hope to have my most sanguine expectations answered. Get but humility, and all will be well. I am satisfied about your passage and your room. You will remember, that God is about your bed, as well as your other paths, and take care to behave accordingly. To be a christian husband is no small matter. How much fresh grace is now necessary for your new state of life! Your sufficiency lives only in Christ. To his never-failing mercy do I commend you, and, for his great name’s sake, subscribe myself, dear A――,

Your affectionate and ready friend,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCXCVI.

To Mr. S――.

Nantwich, October 18, 1753.

My very dear Sir,

I am now at an Inn, but cannot go farther, without giving you an account of my last week’s circuit. Since my last, I have been at Birmingham, and several adjacent places. Still fresh work hath been done, and souls fled to the gospel like doves to the windows. At a place near Dudley, called Guarnall, I heard of a whole company awakened by reading my poor sermons. I met with others awakened years ago; and at one place, an old saint said, “this is the old story fifty-five years ago.” Another near as old, said, “I was comforted when you came last, now God hath sent you to me again, and I can go more chearful to heaven.” I have heard of a great reprobate, a notorious persecutor and drunkard, who hath been struck most powerfully. O my dear Sir; what shall you have for helping me in outward things, assisting me by your prayers, and thereby causing me to press forward more chearfully in this delightful work of publishing the everlasting gospel! I am now going to a neighbouring village, after that to Chester, and from thence, purpose to return through Staffordshire. God willing, you shall hear how it goes on, when I come to cross-plough the ground again. In the mean while, be pleased to accept this as a token of my love, gratitude, and respect unfeigned, and after giving my most hearty love to dear Mrs. S―― and your dear little daughter, I subscribe myself, very dear Sir,

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

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCXCVII.

To Mr. S――.

Wolverhampton, October 27, 1753.

My very dear Sir,

MY last, I think was from Nantwich. Since that, the ever-loving, ever-lovely Jesus, hath vouchsafed to employ me in breaking up new ground. I have preached four times at Alperam in Cheshire, where the Lord was with us of a truth, and where he had sweetly prepared my way, by blessing several of my poor writings. At Chester I preached four times; a great concourse attended; all was hushed and quiet, several of the clergy were present, and the word came with power. I have since heard, that the most noted rebel in town, was brought under deep conviction, and could not sleep night or day. Within doors, where I preached early in the morning, conviction seemed to go through the whole congregation. At Liverpool, the way was equally prepared.—A person who had been wrought on by some of my printed sermons, met me at landing, and took me to his house; a great number at a short notice was convened; all was quiet here also. Some came under immediate conviction; and I could wish to have stayed much longer, but notice was given for my preaching at Wrexham, which I find since, hath been a rude place indeed. Upon my coming, the town was alarmed, and several thousands came to hear. Several of the baser sort made a great noise, and threw stones, but none touched me, and I trust I can say, our Lord got himself the victory. The next day, near Alperam, we had another heaven upon earth. A divine power descended among the people, and we could say, how awfully sweet is this place! The next morning I intended to preach near Nantwich, where a Methodist meeting-house hath lately been pulled down. Here Satan roared.—The mob pelted Mr. D―― and others much, but I got off pretty free, and had opportunity of preaching quietly a little out of town. Last night I preached here in the dark, to a great body of hearers, for this country, and am now bound for Wednesbury, Dudley and Kidderminster. From thence, perhaps I may come to London for a few days. But this as yet is not determined. You will either see or hear again from me soon. In the mean while, I commend myself to the continual remembrance of your whole self, and with ten thousand thanks for all favours, beg leave to subscribe myself, my very dear Sir,

Yours, &c. in our blessed Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCXCVIII.

To Mr. E――.

London, November 8, 1753.

Dear Mr. E――,

MAN appoints, but it is God’s prerogative to disappoint, when disappointments are necessary for our good. But how hard is it to believe this? How apt are we in our haste to say, all these things are against us! But what says Doctor Watts?

Where reason fails with all her pow’rs,

There faith prevails and love adores.――

Come then, my dear Sir, and chearfully give up your Isaac for God. He will be better to you than a thousand creatures.

Leave to his sovereign sway,

To choose and to command;

So shalt thou wond’ring own his way:

How wise! how strong his hand!

Far above thy thoughts,

His counsel shall appear,

When fully he the work hath wrought,

That caus’d thy needless fear.

Ere now, I trust, the storm is blown over, and that the Redeemer hath made you happy in himself. His love is unchangeable; this rock of ages can never fail you. Build upon him, and you are quite safe. I could enlarge, but time fails. Be pleased to remember us to all, and believe me to be, dear Sir,

Your affectionate brother and servant in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER DCCCCXCIX.

To Mr. P――.

Gloucester, November 16, 1753.

My dear P――,

I THANK you for your kind letter; it found me just returned from another tour in the north, which, like the former, I trust hath been owned and blessed to many precious and immortal souls. At Liverpool, Chester, Dudley, Wednesbury, Birmingham, Coventry, Northampton, and various other places, the gospel report was believed, and the arm of the Lord was revealed. At Nantwich and Wrexham, I met with a little rough treatment; but what have pilgrims to expect better, in their journeying through the wide howling wilderness of this noisy and troublesome world? At London, we had blessed seasons; and here, in my native country, the Lord of all Lords hath repeatedly made us cry out, “how dreadful is this place!” After Lord’s day, I am bound for Bristol and Plymouth, and hope to get into my winter quarters some time before Christmas. Glad should I be to travel for Jesus all the year round. It is more to me than my necessary food. Thank you, thank you my dear singing friends, for praying for me. I am persuaded, you help to hold up my weak hands. O continue to pray, that I may at length begin to be a pilgrim indeed. No other honour do I desire, whilst on this side eternity. I hope to send you some new tunes ere long. And what is better, infinitely better, I hope to join with you in singing the song of Moses and the Lamb ere long in the kingdom of heaven. Till then, though as yet we are embodied spirits,

We’ll strive to sing as loud as they,

Who shine above in brighter day.

Grace, mercy and peace be multiplied upon you all. But a word or two concerning Jenks on the righteousness of Christ. It is a precious book, and I think your extracting Mr. Hervey’s recommendation, and putting it by way of preface, to a new edition, will be sufficient. This I know is all he would consent to have done some time ago, when applied to by a London bookseller. God prosper this work of your hands upon you. Pray remember me to all my never to be forgotten friends, and assure them, that not want of love but leisure prevents their hearing more frequently from, my dear Sir,

Theirs and yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER M.

To Mr. G――.

Gloucester, November 16, 1753.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

YOUR kind letter I received, and would have answered it during my stay in London (which was only a few days) but really I was almost killed with a multiplicity of business. The journals also I would have sent immediately, but knew not how.—My wife promised me to embrace the first opportunity that offered, and I hope ere long they will come safe to hand. As for my pointing out particular passages, it is impracticable; I have neither leisure nor inclination so to do. At present, my doings and writings appear to me in so mean a light, that I think they deserve no other treatment than to be buried in eternal oblivion. “Behold, I am vile, I am vile,” is all that I can say to God or man. And yet, amazing love! vile as I am, the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, still delights to honour me, by owning and succeeding my poor feeble labours. Great things were done in and about Newcastle; but far greater did we see afterwards in Yorkshire, Lancashire, &c. Since that, I have been another tour, and have preached at Liverpool, Chester, Coventry, Birmingham, Dudley, Wednesbury, Kidderminster, Northampton, Bedford, &c. &c. Ere now I suppose Mr. B―― P―― hath informed you, what apostolical treatment we met with at Nantwich. Lord, what am I, that I should be accounted worthy to suffer reproach for thy great name sake? At present I am in my native country, where the Lord of all Lords hath vouchsafed to give us several precious meetings. After a few days sojourning here, I am bound for Bristol and Plymouth, and in about three weeks, I purpose to betake myself to my winter quarters. Blessed be God, I have had good news from Georgia. O that we all may at length safely arrive in Abraham’s harbour! From thence we shall never put to sea again. My dear Sir, in the mean while, let us pray for each other. Christ is in our ship, and therefore it will not sink. I commend you and yours, and all my other never to be forgotten Glasgow friends, to his never-failing protection, and beg them, for Christ’s sake, to always remember to pray for, my very dear Sir,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MI.

To Mr. S――.

Gloucester, November 17, 1753.

My very dear Sir,

IT is now just a week since I left London. I must not, I cannot go any further without writing to him, who doth so much to strengthen my hands in the Lord. And what shall I say? Truly the glorious Emmanuel still continues to smile upon my feeble labours. Although I am in my native country, yet he hath not left himself without witness. Last Lord’s day was a high day, and since that, we have had some more beautiful seasons in the country. I write this from a nineteen years friend’s house, an Alderman of the city, who with his wife, are my spiritual children. Lord, what am I? To-morrow I am to move, and expect, besides riding, to preach thrice for some days.

Christ’s presence will my pains beguile,

And make me, though fatigu’d, to smile.

After visiting Bristol and Plymouth, I purpose hastening to my winter quarters. Winter quarters!—The word winter almost shocks me. Alas, winter come already, and I, ungrateful, ill and hell-deserving I, have done so little for my God in the summer? How can I lift up my guilty head? I blush and am confounded before thee, O Lord. Behold, I am vile; O dig and dung round me, that I may bring forth more fruit to thee my God! Still, my dear Sir, I must beg your prayers, and those of your dear yoke-fellow, whom I love and honour, and whom (with your dear little daughter) I salute much in the Lord. A sense of my own unfruitfulness, and of God’s amazing condescension in employing such a wretch, at present so over-powers me, that I am obliged to retire, to give vent to my heart, after having subscribed myself, my very dear Sir,

Yours under innumerable obligations, in the best of bonds,

G. W.

LETTER MII.

To Mr. A――.

Bristol, November 21, 1753.

My very dear friend,

I HOPED a few days ago to send you glad tidings, and blessed be God, I am not disappointed. Never had I before such freedom in Gloucestershire. It was so pleasant, that I intend taking it again in my way to London. Sunday was indeed an high day. I preached and gave the sacrament at the new-house in the morning, and preached again at Mr. G――’s and Mr. F――’s in the field, at noon and in the evening. Showers of blessings descended from above. Mr. L―― supped with me; our Lord gave us richly to feast upon his great love. At Painswick we had two pleasant seasons, and the same favour was vouchsafed us at Chafford and Tedbury. At Gloucester also a time of refreshing came from the presence of the Lord, and the dear Alderman’s house was made a Bethel to my soul. God brought me here on Monday evening, and to my great disappointment the new tabernacle is not finished, so that I know not well what to do. However, we had a good time last night at the hall, and I hope all this is but the beginning of a warm winter. I am glad that the Lord Jesus deals so bountifully with you at London. May he do so more and more! I believe he will. Your motion to go to Norwich I much approve of. Whatever others design, that is nothing to us. Simplicity and godly sincerity will carry all before it in the end. O that the sons of Zeruiah could be persuaded to let us alone! But how then should we be able to approve ourselves sons of David? By thorns and briars, the old man must be scratched to death.—O this crucifixion work! Lord Jesus help us to go through it! He will, he will. I commend thee and thine to his almighty protection and never-failing mercy, as being, my very dear man,

Yours most affectionately in our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MIII.

Stroude, November 27, 1753.

Dear Mrs. C――,

YOUR letter came to my hands at Wrexham, but being upon the road I could not answer it. What said God to Abraham, “Fear not; I will be thy shield and thy exceeding great reward.” Now is your time to approve yourself his daughter.—My heart’s desire and prayer to the Lord of all Lords is, that you may be strong in faith, and thereby give glory to God.—I am much obliged to those who dissuade you from going.—I find most love to be friends till they begin to have their Isaacs demanded.—Let them have but a little patience: perhaps I may embark myself.—If they do not think it a privilege to go for Christ over the waters, I do.—This, even this is the language of my heart,

Lord, obediently I’ll go,

Gladly leaving all below;

Only Thou my leader be,

And I still will follow Thee.

O for a pilgrim heart! This I believe God hath given you, and I do not fear repenting the confidence I have reposed in you.—That the Lord may make you a mother in Israel, and bless you in taking care of his dear lambs, is the hearty prayer of, dear Mrs. C――,

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

G. W.

P. S. We have had blessed seasons in the country: the Lord has been with us of a truth. Grace! grace!

LETTER MIV.

To Mr. S――.

Bristol, December 1, 1753.

My very dear friend,

THIS hath been a long fortnight, for so long it is since I wrote to my very dear friend; but I waited to send him a bundle of good news together. Blessed be God, I am not disappointed of my hope. Since my last, I have preached several times in Gloucestershire, where the people, as well as the unworthy preacher, drank plentifully of the good wine of the kingdom. In the fields several thousands attended. Here we have also enjoyed much of God; twice I preached in my brother’s great house to the quality, amongst whom was one of Cæsar’s houshold. On Sunday I opened the new Tabernacle. It is large, but not half large enough: would the place contain them, I believe near as many would attend as in London. Last Monday I set out for Somersetshire, intending to have gone as far as Plymouth, but the weather was so violent, and my call to London likely to be so speedy, that I turned back. However, I preached in Somersetshire four or five times. Some told me, they were scarce able to stand under what God gave them. On Tuesday, at seven in the evening, I preached in the open air to a great multitude; all was hush’d and exceeding solemn; the stars shone exceeding bright, and then, if ever, by an eye of faith, I saw him who calleth them all by their names. My soul was filled with an holy ambition, and I longed to be one of those who shall shine as the stars for ever and ever. My hands and body at this, and at other times were pierced with cold; but what are outward things when the soul within is warmed with the love of God? O my very dear Sir, increase my obligations by continuing to pray, that this unspeakable gift may be shed abroad abundantly in my heart by the Holy Ghost. Then shall I not grovel as I do now here below, but mount on wings like an eagle; I shall walk and not be weary, I shall hold on and not be faint. O that I may die in the field! But die when or where I will, I shall die under the strongest obligations to you and your dear yoke-fellow, who will both know, at the day of judgment, how sincerely I subscribe myself, very dear Sir,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MV.

To Mr. S――.

Bristol, December 3, 1753.

WHEN I saw the seal of your last sweet letter, I guessed at the contents of it. Blessed be God, I was not disappointed. The heart was soaring aloft, mounting on the wings of faith and love, and had fled out of sight of this poor and troublesome world. Thus may that God, who is rich in mercy, pay and reward all that love ill and hell-deserving me! The devil himself dares ♦not accuse us, for serving and loving God or man, for these wages. They are wages of God’s appointing, God’s promising, God’s paying. May my dear friend always find such payment! I believe he will.

O Lord, enlarge our scanty thoughts,

To see the wonders thou hast wrought;

Unloose our stammering tongues to tell,

Thy love immense, unspeakable.

I rejoice in the promising prospect of the happiness of your brother’s houshold. May it widen and spread over all! If I have any time, I hope to send him a few lines. Lord, hasten the time when my poor kinsmen and brethren after the flesh shall be joined to thee by one spirit! Till then, help me, O Lord, to be continually crying out, “Why me, Lord, why me?” Well may distinguishing grace, and the thoughts of everlasting love, swallow up your whole soul. Strange! that God’s children should not know their own bread. But these corrupt hearts of ours still verge towards the law. Grace, omnipotent grace alone, can enable us to see our compleatness in Christ, and yet excite us, from principles of gratitude and love, to faithfulness and zeal, as though we were to be saved entirely by them. Glorious mystery! Like the blessed angels, may you and yours, my dear friend, be continually employed in looking into it! This is what I have been preaching on last week in Somersetshire. The fire there warmed and enflamed me, though I preached in the air on Tuesday evening at seven o’clock, as well as on Wednesday and Thursday. I purposed to go as far as Plymouth, but providence hath brought me back, and I am now hastening to London, to pay my last respects to my dying friend. It may be, that shortly Mr. J―― W―― will be no more; the physicians think his disease is a galloping consumption. I pity the church, I pity myself, but not him. We must stay behind in this cold climate, whilst he takes his flight to a radiant throne, prepared for him from the foundations of the world. Lord, if it be thy blessed will, let not thy chariot wheels be long in coming. Even so come Lord Jesus, come quickly! Poor Mr. C―― will now have double work. But we can do all things through Christ strengthening us. The residue of the Spirit is in the Redeemer’s hands, and he hath promised not to leave his people comfortless. Our eyes, O Lord, are unto thee from whom cometh all our salvation. Here I could enlarge, but I must send a few lines to London, which I hope to reach myself some time this week. Be pleased to direct your next there. My Leeds friends have my cordial acknowledgements for their kind enquiries concerning me. I hope this will find them all, with your dear yoke-fellow, leaning on the Mediator’s bosom. There am I now reclining my weary head. Adieu. The Lord Jesus be with your spirit.

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MVI.

To Mr. C―― W――.

Bristol, December 3, 1753.

BEING unexpectedly brought back from Somersetshire, and hearing you are gone upon such a mournful errand, I cannot help sending after you a few sympathizing lines. The Lord help and support you! May a double spirit of the ascending Elijah, descend and rest on the surviving Elisha! Now is the time to prove the strength of Jesus yours. A wife, a friend, and brother, ill together. Well! this is our comfort, all things shall work together for good to those that love God. If you think proper, be pleased to deliver the inclosed. It was written out of the fulness of my heart. To-morrow I leave Bristol, and purpose reaching London by Saturday morning or night. Glad should I be to reach heaven first; but faith and patience hold out a little longer. Yet a little while, and we shall be all together with our common Lord. I commend you to his everlasting love, and am, my dear friend, with much sympathy,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MVII.

To the Reverend Mr. J―― W――.

Bristol, December 3, 1753.

Reverend and very dear Sir,

IF seeing you so weak when leaving London, distressed me, the news and prospect of your approaching dissolution hath quite weighed me down. I pity myself, and the church, but not you. A radiant throne awaits you, and ere long you will enter into your Master’s joy. Yonder he stands with a massy crown, ready to put it on your head amidst an admiring throng of saints and angels. But I, poor I, that have been waiting for my dissolution these nineteen years, must be left behind to grovel here below! Well, this is my comfort, it cannot be long ere the chariots will be sent even for worthless me. If prayers can detain them, even you, reverend and very dear Sir, shall not leave us yet: but if the decree is gone forth, that you must now fall asleep in Jesus, may he kiss your soul away, and give you to die in the embraces of triumphant love. If in the land of the living, I hope to pay my last respects to you next week. If not, reverend and dear Sir, farewel.—I præ, sequar, etsi non passibus æquis. My heart is too big, tears trickle down too fast, and I fear you are too weak for me to enlarge. May underneath you be Christ’s everlasting arms! I commend you to his never-failing mercy, and am, very dear Sir,

Your most affectionate, sympathizing, and afflicted younger brother in the gospel of our common Lord,

G. W.

LETTER MVIII.

To Mr. C―― W――.

London, December 13, 1753.

My dear Friend,

THE searcher of hearts alone knows the sympathy I have felt for you and yours, and what suspence my mind hath been in concerning the event of your present circumstances. I pray and enquire, enquire and pray again, always expecting to hear the worst. Ere this can reach you, I expect the lot will be cast either for life or death. I long to hear, that I may partake like a friend either of your joy and sorrow. Blessed be God for that promise, whereby we are assured, that “all things shall work together for good to those that love him.” This may make us at least resigned, when called to part with our Isaacs. But who knows the pain of parting, when the wife and the friend are conjoined? To have the desire of one’s eyes cut off with a stroke, what but grace, omnipotent grace, can enable us to bear it? But who knows, perhaps the threatened stroke may be recalled. Surely the Lord of all lords is preparing you for further usefulness by these complex trials. We must be purged, if we would bring forth more fruit. Your brother I hear is better; to-day I intended to have seen him, but Mr. B―― sent me word he thought he would be out for the air. I hope Mr. H―― is better; but I can scarce mention any body now but dear Mrs. W――. Pray let me know how it goes with you. My wife truly joins in sympathy and love. Night and day indeed you are remembered by, my dear friend,

Yours, &c.

G. W.

LETTER MIX.

To Mr. S――.

London, December 13, 1753.

My dear Friend,

THE mail not coming in till to-day, I began to fear lest something had happened to prevent your writing. But, blessed be God, my fears are dispelled, my friend is well, his temporals, his spirituals prosper: herein I rejoice, yea and will rejoice. But what news do you tell me? Hath an infinitely condescending God vouchsafed to breathe on my poor worthless scribble? Hath life and power attended inanimate ink and paper? This then, my God, shall be the language of my heart!

Forgive my faults, and work thy will

By such a worthless instrument;

It will at once thy goodness shew,

And prove thy power omnipotent.

Whatever some may boast of, I know not; but this I can say, that although, through rich, free, and sovereign grace, I have been enabled these nineteen years to say unto God, “Thou art my father,” yet I can still say to corruption, “Thou art my sister.” Time and experience will convince others also of this important truth. God keep me, and all concerned with me, from such manifestations, as do not lead us more and more into the chambers of imagery, which are latent and undiscovered in the secret corners of our hearts! Such only come from God: illuminations which engender pride, and lead us from a deep and pungent feeling of our own nothingness, and the remainders of in-dwelling corruption, are either of a diabolical extraction, or at least are perverted by the devil and proud nature, to feed that disease, which when operating in a genuine way, they have a native tendency to remove. Well might Mr. Fleming say, “Lord, grant me a divine manifestation, but O teach me to manage it after thou hast granted it.” Paul needed a thorn to teach him how to manage such favours aright. I tremble for those who hug their delusions, and look upon the dunghill of corruption as quite removed, when it is only covered over as it were with a little snow. How white did the most foul places look only a few days ago! But the thaw is come, the whiteness is vanished, and filthy dunghills are dunghills still. My dear friend knows how to make the application. Blessed be God for leading you into the knowledge of the mystery of gospel holiness.—Holiness, not built on Moses, or the sandy bottom of our own faithfulness, but on Jesus, that rock of ages, whose faithfulness makes us faithful, and a reliance on whole compleat and all-sufficient righteousness, doings, and sufferings, carries the believer on (without thinking of a reward) to do and suffer, what a legal heart will shrink and boggle at. May this mind be in you and me, and all that love our dear Lord Jesus in sincerity! When the Son of Man makes them thus free, then will they be free indeed. You may easily see, that part of your letter hath led me insensibly into this strain of writing. If it pleases or profits, or both, it will answer the end designed, and the dear, ever-dear, ever-loving, and ever-lovely Redeemer shall have all the glory. As our acquaintance was begun in him, and I trust hath hitherto been blessed, so I would have it continue to run in the same channel, and, whether absent from or present with each other, sweetly lead us to our ocean, God. I am only sorry you have such an unprofitable correspondent. Tears are ready to gush out at the thought, and I am ready to sink into the earth, when I consider how little I can do for that Jesus, whom I love for himself, or for my friends, whom I love for his great name’s sake. Friend of sinners, circle me in thy own compleat and all-sufficient Self! Good night, my dear Sir, good night. If you guess at my present frame, you will know at whose cross this leaves me, and how much I am