LETTER MCLXXVI.
To the Reverend Mr. G——.
London, October 16, 1757.
Reverend and very dear Sir,
I THANK you for your sympathizing letter sent to Ireland. The friend of sinners stood by me, or I had been stoned to death. They were thrown at me, not for speaking against the Papists in particular, but for exciting all ranks to be faithful to King Jesus, and to our dear sovereign King George, for his great name’s sake. Lord, what am I, that I should be honoured to suffer any degree of pain or shame in such a cause? Time will not permit me to descend to more particulars. A young man, who will bring you soon a few lines from me, can tell you the whole affair. He is a Methodist, and is coming from Dublin, (and from a Bishop’s family) to study at Glasgow. I know you will receive him gladly. O that God may qualify, and send forth thousands to blow the trumpet in Zion! Seven gospel ministers were together at Bristol, when the counsellor preached. A lawyer hath lately entered likewise into orders, and I humbly hope the blessed Jesus will not give us up. Both at home and abroad we are in great danger. But the Lord lives, and will live and reign for ever. The awakenings in New-Jersey, &c. are tokens for good. Lord, prepare us for whatever thou hast prepared for us! We have had blessed seasons for these six weeks last past, at Plymouth, Exeter, Bristol, Gloucester, and Gloucestershire. This comes from my winter quarters. You will pray, that Jesus may be with us. My most cordial respects and thanks await your whole self, and all dear friends who are so kind as to enquire after, my very dear Sir,
Yours, &c.
G. W.