G. W.
LETTER MCXLI.
To Lady H——n.
London, June 10, 1756.
Ever-honoured Madam,
BEING just come off the bed, where I have been sweating for a cold and cholic that had seized me this day, I met with your Ladyship’s very kind and condescending letter. I see your Ladyship is touched in a very tender point: generous minds are always thus affected, when a friend is abused. But I find more and more, honoured Madam, that our own mother’s children will be permitted to be angry with one. The contradiction of saints, is more trying than that of sinners:—but it is all to teach us to cease from man, and wrap ourselves in Him, in whom alone dwells consummate perfection. That I might say, “some of Mr. L——’s principles, in my opinion, are wrong,” I do not deny; but that I put Mr. W——y upon writing, or had any active hand in his pamphlet, is utterly false. I think it is a most ungentleman-like, injudicious, unchristian piece. However, Mr. L—— knows too much of the divine life, not to see some call even in this cross; and I hope your Ladyship will not suffer it to burden your mind any longer. Satan wants to disturb your Ladyship’s repose. Ere long, blessed be the glorious Emmanuel, he will be bruised under our feet. This last week I have had some respite from his artful and perplexing suggestions, and have been enabled to ride upon my high places. My present work at London seems to be over, and Monday or Tuesday next, God willing, I hope to set out for Bristol, where I purpose preaching next Thursday. If divine Providence should not direct your Ladyship thither, I have thought of coming through Leicestershire, in my way to Scotland. This circuit, I hope, will be a three months circuit. The prospect in London is very promising. Every day we hear of fresh conquests. To thee, and thee alone, most adorable Redeemer, be all the glory! Want of strength forbids my enlarging. O this vile body! Surely our treasure is in earthly vessels. When it is breaking to pieces, and the rattles are in my throat, I hope with my latest breath to acknowledge the innumerable unmerited favours which have been conferred by your Ladyship on, ever-honoured Madam,
Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, obliged, and ready servant for Christ’s sake,
G. W.