AS the Lord is pleased to detain me here by contrary winds, why should I not send you a line? You have stood up for the truths of God, and, I trust, will not be ashamed of our Lord and his gospel. I expect a great falling away amongst those that followed me: But I hope dear Mr. M. will continue stedfast and unmoveable to the last. The only way, is to keep a constant eye to Christ, to go forth in his strength, and never to rest till you feel his blessed truths copied and transcribed on your heart. You have often heard me exclaim against resting on a head-knowledge. You are a man of strong passions, and sprightly imagination, and therefore (I know you will not be affronted) you will make either a great saint, or an accomplished ——. I believe the former, though, as a friend, I remind you of, and caution you against the latter. You love to be dealt plainly with. Oh, dear Sir, I feel that I love you, and have a real concern for you and your houshold.—What would I give to see your daughters become wise virgins, and fallen in love with the blessed Jesus. How amiable would they then appear! But before this can be done, all pertness, and lightness of spirit, must be taken away, and they must not only leave off dancing, but be made new creatures. How is your son? Pray tell him it is time for him to come home. The fatted calf waits for him. I could say more; but time will not permit. Dear Sir, pray for me. Indeed I will endeavour to return the favour; many are waiting for, and would rejoice at my halting; but the Lord is my helper. He is with me in my little cabin, and gives me a feeling possession of his blessed spirit. May the Lord enrich you with a great measure of it, and fill you with all his fulness! Methinks I see you lifting up your eyes, and saying, Amen.—And so saith, dear Mr. M.
Your affectionate friend and servant in Christ,
G. W.
LETTER CLXXXVI.
To Mr. R——, at Philadelphia.
Reedy Island, May 22, 1740.
Dear R.,
LET nothing said to you in my absence affect you. God has lately delivered you out of one snare; take heed how you fall into another. If you watch unto prayer, who knows but God may bless your endeavours amongst the poor negro women and children? I could not wish you more happily situated.—My love to all the society.—Exhort them not to rest in good desires. Shew them, O shew them the necessity of being deeply wounded, before they can be capable of healing by Jesus Christ. Bid them to beware of a light behaviour, and light company. Both do grieve the blessed spirit of God. Take heed, take heed of those accursed snares. I could say more, but time will not permit. My love to the Negro Peggy, and all her black sisters. Bid them to pray for me. May the blood of Jesus wash away all the pollutions of their sin-sick souls! What if they were put into a society by themselves, and you, or some white woman, meet with them? The good Lord direct and bless you in all things.—This is the hearty prayer of
Your sincere friend and servant in Christ,