To Mrs. C——.
London, July 25, 1755.
Dear Mrs. C——,
I WRITE this from Mr. C——’s, whither I have retired for a little relaxation, and to get leisure to write a few letters. Your brother is just gone from me, and would send you his hearty love if he knew of my writing. T—— is gone to Plymouth, and Miss L—— is sick of a fever (though I hope not dangerously) at Lewisham. Mrs. W——, one of the conference, I buried last Tuesday; and am longing for that happy time when this frail tabernacle shall be also laid in the silent grave. It hath tottered lately more than ever, and yet the Redeemer vouchsafes so to comfort me within, that methinks I am not yet to die, but live and declare the works of the Lord. O that I may begin to begin to do something for my God! I am afraid we are at the eve of a war: but fear not. Bethesda especially, I believe, will be hid under the shadow of the Redeemer’s wings. Whilst I have persons there (as I think is the case now) that act with a single eye, I am persuaded it will be like the burning bush. Pray remember me to all in the kindest manner. I hope to write when the childrens cloaths are ready. We have blessed seasons at Tabernacle. I have met with some outward as well as inward trials; but this is my comfort, “The Lord knoweth the way that I take. When I am tried I shall come forth like gold.” O that faith and patience may have their perfect work in this sin-sick soul! Desire dear Nat, Mr. Dix, &c. not to be uneasy, because I do not write now; it is impracticable. Night and day you are all upon my heart, and I long to hear how you go on. My blessing attends you all, even you and the children. Surely, was I retired from public work, feeding Christ’s lambs should be my constant employ. But alas! I must be in the front of the battle. Lord Jesus, magnify thy strength in my weakness, or I shall deny thee and desert my post! Pray hard all of you, I intreat you, for me, and let me know all your wants. I will labour night and day to have them supplied, and will pray the great Shepherd and Bishop of souls to pay you blessed wages. I know you will be content with such a paymaster. I commend you all to his never-failing mercy, as being, dear Mrs. C——,
Your most sincere and cordial friend and willing servant for Christ’s sake,
G. W.
LETTER MXCI.
To Lady ——.
Norwich, August 9, 1755.