MAKE no apology for writing your mind. I see the disease, but know not how to come at a cure. Labourers are wanting of the old stamp: but vines are very apt to degenerate. If I am not mistaken, we shall be purged with a witness. God grant it may be that we may bring forth more fruit. I want the purgation most of all. I dread a corpulent body. But it breaks in upon me like an armed man. O that my heart may not wax gross at the same time! I would fain not flag, but rather begin at least to begin in the latter stages of my road. Congregations in Scotland are very large. I am glad to hear that the shout of a king is among you. Pray remember me in the kindest manner to all in conference, and to all that are so kind as to enquire after, dear Mrs. W——,
Your sincere friend and servant in our common Lord,
G. W.
LETTER MCCXXX.
To Mrs. C——.
Newcastle, August 16, 1759.
Dear Mrs. C——,
LONG before now I hope you have had the pleasure of seeing Bethesda’s debts all paid. Bethesda (now outward burdens are off) I trust will be more agreeable every day. I do not want to change its present Governess. This, I fear, would be the case, was Mr. P—— and his family to come. I fear you would then think yourself discharged. Besides, he seems to want me to resign my trust entirely. This all here dissuade me from, upon any terms, or to any person whatsoever. As you and Mr. D—— are so faithful, if Mr. P—— will continue to superintend till I come, matters may continue as they are. O when shall I receive my commission to go abroad. God only knows what awaits us at home. Jesus is our hiding-place. I am now in my return from Scotland. For these six weeks last past, the word hath run and been glorified there. O, who is a God like unto our God, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, continually doing wonders! he will be our God and guide unto death. That he may continually fill you with his grace here, and grant you an exalted place, near his throne, in his kingdom hereafter, is the earnest prayer of, dear Mrs. C——,
Your most affectionate, obliged friend, and ready servant in our glorious Emmanuel,