Very dear Sir,
I HOPE this will find you safe returned from your summer tour, and laden with the fruit of God’s everlasting love. You see where this leaves me. Friends have even constrained me to stay here, for fear of running into the Summer’s heat. Hitherto I find the benefit of it. Whatever it is owing to, through mercy, I am much better in health, than I was this time twelvemonth, and can now preach thrice a week to very large auditories without hurt. Every day I hear of some brought under concern; and I trust, whenever I remove, a blessing will be left behind. This is all of grace. To the glorious giver, purchaser, and applier of it, be all the glory. All was well at Georgia in April, and I hope to be carried comfortably through the southern journey that lies before me.
Christ’s presence shall my pains beguile,
And make each wilderness to smile.
In about a fortnight, God willing, I purpose to set forward. It will be hard parting. But heaven will make amends for all. Blessed be God that matters go on so well at London. If I get more bodily strength, I shall think of another voyage with more comfort. But future things belong to Him, who orders all things for the best. I would trust him for the present day, and not be over solicitous for the morrow. Lord, I believe, help thou my unbelief! Perhaps we may meet once more on this side eternity. They tell me, that the Summers in these northern parts have of late years been very cool. The event will shew. Let it suffice that eternal truth hath assured us, that as our day is so our strength shall be. I know I shall not want your prayers, or the prayers of your dear relatives. Most cordial respects and ten thousand thanks await them all; for indeed none are forgotten by, my very dear Sir,
Yours, &c. &c. in the blessed Jesus,
G. W.
June 7.
Parting here hath been heart breaking: I cannot stand it. I must away for the southward. Mr. T—— C—— hath a packet that will be delivered by a friend. O for heaven! There all will be together with the Lord. Hallelujah!