Honoured Madam,
WITH regret I left your Ladyship; but I hope it was for the furtherance of the gospel. At Radcliff church, the divine influence was greater than at Millburn. I preached on these words, “But one thing is needful.” Many were impressed deeply. After sermon I conversed with Mrs. B—— and Mr. Law’s sister. The latter seems to be under awakenings, and the former in her first love. She carries high sail; our Lord knows how to put in proper ballast. In the morning I preached here to many thousands. I had a great cold, but the Lord strengthened me. This evening, God willing, I preach again, and to-morrow shall set off for Mansfield, where a friend has invited me to his house. What care does our Lord take of his poor pilgrims! As I go on, your Ladyship shall hear how I am dealt with. I know it will be bountifully, because I have got such a bountiful master. He will bless your Ladyship more and more. When Mr. B—— comes, I shall be glad to hear what becomes of the rioters. A line may be sent to Manchester. O that your Ladyship may live to see many of those Ashby stones become children to Abraham! I trust you will. I write in great haste, but with respect and gratitude greater than I can express; and beg leave to subscribe myself, very honoured Madam,
Your Ladyship’s, &c.
G. W.
LETTER DCCCXXXVII.
To Dr. S——.
Mansfield, May 24, 1750.
My dear Doctor,
YOURS found me just as I was about to leave good Lady H——. Ever since, I have been engaged in travelling and preaching the everlasting gospel. In Radcliff church, at Nottingham, and Sutton, our Lord’s Spirit hath accompanied the word preached. This morning I preached here, and, God willing, purpose to do so again in the evening, and to-morrow morning. Little was expected here but rudeness; however the auditory was large and attentive. What cannot the Redeemer do? I am quite sorry that Mr. H——’s letter was printed:—But it was no Methodist that published it. Felix quem faciunt aliena pericula cautum. I pray God to give my dear friend prudence and courage whilst he is in London. Remember, if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off;—if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out and cast it from thee. Now is your time to sacrifice your Isaac. Christ will have all the heart or none. I write thus, because I love you dearly. I pray for you from my inmost soul. O that you may be kept as in a garrison, by God’s mighty power, through faith unto salvation! Without Christ you can do nothing. Nil desperandum Christo duce. That he may strengthen you to do what you know to be his will, is the hearty prayer of, very dear Sir,