Hampton, July 8, 1743.
Honoured and very dear Sir,
BLESSED be the dear Jesus, he hath brought me safe hither. He was also with me on the road, and I am persuaded, that whatsoever sufferings I am to pass through here, all shall work together for good; for Jesus is and will be with me. The mob has breathed out many threatenings against me; but Jesus is greater than all, and I am persuaded he’ll let them find him so. I rode all down the town without the least molestation, only many cried, (but silently as it were) “O, he is come home!” which was a surprizing thing to them; for a gentleman had affirmed, that he saw me in prison. I have been walking up the town, without any disturbance; but the mob, they say, continue more and more exasperated. We expect them soon. They generally apprize one another, by ringing a bell. The whole mob consist of about an hundred: but Jesus keeps me without the least fear, and at the same time gives me quietly to wait on him for direction, how to act. A few of the dear disciples are by me. We have been praying together, and the Lord is with us. I believe death in its ugliest shapes would not be terrible to some here, at least I think so of myself; and when I look to the faithfulness of my Saviour, I can loudly say, “As my day is, so my strength shall be.” Many of the people of the town have been with me, to tell me the respect they have for me, and how much they are concerned for the abuse that has been given us. I believe all will be well by and by. At the same time, I believe your coming might be much blessed to that end. I must conclude; but I think to give you a farther account on Monday, if our Saviour pleases. In the mean time, I heartily beg an interest in your prayers, and the whole society with you. Tell them, O tell them, to get ready for suffering, by cleaving close to the Lamb, rooted and grounded in him: withal please to give my kind love and service to them for Jesu’s sake, and be pleased to accept the same your dear self, and many thanks for all the tokens of unfeigned love conferred on
Your unworthy brother and servant,
T. A.
LETTER DXXVII.
To Mrs. D——.
Bristol, July 14, 1743.
My dear Madam,