SINCE my leaving Scotland, in various parts of the north of England, as at Alnwick, Newcastle, Leeds, &c. the ever-loving, altogether-lovely Jesus hath manifested forth his glory. Thousands and thousands have flocked twice, and sometimes thrice a day to hear the word. Never did I see the fields whiter, or more ripe for a spiritual harvest. Praise the Lord, O our souls! If the weather continues fair, I hope to prolong my Summer’s campaign. It shocks me to think of Winter quarters yet. Lord, help me! How soon does the year roll round! Lord Jesus, quicken my tardy pace! I suppose by this time Mr. G—— is got home. Blessed be God for owning him. I expect to see him in a few days. I write this from the house of a once terrible persecutor of her husband, but now a Lydia. What a change doth grace make! As they were in debt at Leeds for their building, last Lord’s-day I collected for them near fifty pounds. Lord Jesus, help me to know no party but thine! This I am persuaded is your catholic spirit. O for an increase of it among all denominations! I could enlarge, but the people are waiting. I thank God I am not worse in my health. Help me to cry Grace! grace! I suppose Dr. W—— hath sent you Miss Prince’s letter. You will remember me to dear Mrs. G—— and all friends. I send repeated thanks for all favours, and earnestly entreat the continuance of their prayers in behalf of, reverend and very dear Sir,
Theirs and yours, &c. in our glorious Head,
G. W.
LETTER MCCXVII.
To Mr. ——.
London, October 28, 1758.
My very dear Sir,
HOW narrowly did I escape seeing you at Bath! I was coming from Staffordshire to Bristol, but the change of weather and shortness of the days drove me up to my Winter quarters. I took leave of our young friends, who have been publicly on a scaffold attending a preached gospel. Lord Jesus, increase such mighty wonders! My health is somewhat improved, but I find a very little thing soon impairs it. Lord, help me! How very little can I do for thee! I blush even whilst I am writing. Quicken, O God, my tardy pace! We hope to see you next week. I wish Mrs. G—— and Mrs. B—— would come up this Winter. We have had fine gospel seasons. Grace! grace! I could enlarge, but have scarce got time to write these few [♦]lines. I think they are lines of love and gratitude much owing you by, my very dear Sir,
Yours, &c. in our glorious Head,