Bristol, June 16, 1758.
My very dear Sir,
THE Welch roads have almost demolished my open one-horse chaise, as well as me. But it is in Jesus’s cause. Grace! grace! I am almost ashamed to think of your being put to so much trouble, in procuring a close chaise for unworthy me. I like the purchase exceeding well, and send a pepper-corn of acknowledgment for this and all other unmerited favours. The God whom I desire to serve in the gospel of his dear Son, knows and will reward all. Though I thought I heard the sound of my blessed Master’s chariot wheels ready to carry me to heaven, yet it should seem I am once more to see you, and your dear relations, and my other christian friends on earth. Some time next week I hope to be there. The legacy is wonderful; much better left for the poor than me. I can give it away with a good grace: at present I think the Orphan-house shall have the whole; it is much wanted there. See, my dear Sir, how the christian’s blessings must be brought out of the fire. It is inconceivable what I have undergone within these three weeks. I never was so before. I trust some lasting blessings have been left behind in Wales. Welcome shocks, both of body and mind. In such a case it is worth dying for. Dear Mr. D—— hath felt them in London, as I have done in Wales.—All for the Elect’s sake. Welcome, thrice welcome the bitter sweets, which the all-wise and compassionate Physician prescribes; but I am a stubborn patient. O what gripings of the old man are discovered by such dispensations! I must away to preach. I thank you heartily, dear Sir, for the continuance of your prayers, and with most cordial respects to your dear and near relations, I beg leave to subscribe myself,
Yours, &c.
G. W.
LETTER MCCVI.
To Lady H——n.
Bristol, June 17, 1758.
Ever-honoured Madam,