Leeds, Oct. 30, 1749.
Honoured Madam,
ON Saturday evening I had the honour of your Ladyship’s letter, and as it came before the Manchester post went out, I immediately sent the inclosed to Mrs. G——. If possible I am persuaded she will comply. She seems to be quite in earnest. I conversed for about two hours with the Captain and some other officers, upon the nature and necessity of the new birth. He was affected, and I hope it was blessed. Since I left them, I have preached to many thousands at Rosindale, Aywood, and Halifax. I have also offered Jesus at [♦]Burstall, Pudsy, and Armly, and have had three precious seasons here. Congregations are exceeding large indeed, and both the established and dissenting clergy are very angry. They thundered I hear yesterday heartily. But truth is great, and will prevail, though preached in the fields and streets. Indeed it begins to be cold abroad now; but the Lord Jesus is pleased to strengthen me, and people flock from all quarters. This day sevennight, God willing, without fail your Ladyship may depend on seeing me. I thought to have been at Ashby next Lord’s-day, but a door seems to be opened at Nottingham, and I have thoughts of trying what can be done there. This morning I shall set out for Sheffield. May the Lord give me a pilgrim heart for my pilgrim life, and then all will be well! I know I have your Ladyship’s prayers.—I think your Ladyship judges right in respect to the churches. I expect to meet with many rebuffs, but by the help of my God I shall leap over every wall. That your Ladyship may stand as a wall of brass, is the hearty prayer of, honoured Madam,
Your Ladyship’s most dutiful obedient servant,
G. W.
[♦] “Burstal” replaced with “Burstall”
LETTER DCCLXXXIV.
To the Reverend Mr. H——.
Ashby-Place, Nov. 8, 1749.