London, December 31, 1755.
Ever-honoured Madam,
YOUR Ladyship’s kind and condescending letter should not have lain so long by me, had not bodily weakness, and my Christmas labours, prevented my writing. Indeed and indeed my good Lady, it hath been a joyful mournful season to my inward man. For exclusive of a pretty sharp outward trial, Saturday last being my birth-day, my soul was deeply exercised from morning till evening, in thinking how much in one-and-forty years I have sinned against, and how little I have done for an infinitely good and ever-blessed God. This impression yet lies deep upon my heart, and therefore, through divine assistance, I purpose to end the old year in preaching on those words, “I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.” O that all things belonging to the old man, may die in me, and all things belonging to the new man live and grow in me! But alas, this is a work of time. Every day and every hour must we be passing from death to life. Mortification and vivification make up the whole of the divine work in the new-born soul. Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly; have compassion on this barren fig-tree, and if it is to be spared another year, so dig and dung round it, that it may bring forth much fruit unto God! But shall I conceal the goodness of my long-suffering Master? No: I dare not;—for in spite of my unworthiness, he still continues to smile upon my poor ministrations, and gives me to see his stately steps in the great congregations. A noble chapel is now opened in Long-acre, where I am to read prayers and preach twice a week. Hundreds went away last night, who could not come in; but those that could, I trust, met with Jesus. Mr. C—— and I have met twice, and hope for a third interview very soon. Lord Jesus, make me a peace-maker! I am obliged to Mrs. W—— and the other Ladies for their kind remembrance of an unworthy worm. I return it, by earnestly praying, that they and your Ladyship may be filled with all the fulness of God. I can rise no higher, and therefore, with all possible acknowledgments for all unmerited favours, I must hasten to subscribe myself, ever-honoured Madam,
Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, obliged, and very ready servant for Christ’s sake,
G. W.
LETTER MCXIII.
To Mr. S——.
London, January 1, 1756.
My very dear Friend,