My very dear Friends,
SURELY your many favours demand a speedy return of thanks. They are all put down in his book, who is not so unrighteous as to forget any work of faith, or labour that proceedeth of love. This is the principle from which, I am persuaded, you act: and a blessed principle it is. It comes from above, and leads to above. Had I more of this, and bodily strength proportionable, how would I wing my way! How would I preach for my God! How would I
Strive to sing as loud as they,
Who shine above in brighter day!
Blessed be God, we have reason to praise him whose mercy endureth for ever. I have preached twice in the open air: thousands and thousands attended. I am going to preach here this morning in my native city. On Sunday I hope to take to Rodborough wood again. Good Lady H——n, &c. were wonderfully delighted. They honoured dear Mr. A——s’s house with their presence. He is but poorly, and wants a nurse. Perhaps before next Sunday he may be married to a simple-hearted, plain, good creature, that hath waited upon him and the preachers near twenty years. She hath no fortune, but is one who, I think, will take care of, and be obedient to him for Christ’s sake. You may let Betty W——d see the contents of this, upon condition that you with her cease not to pray for, my very dear friends,
Yours, &c. &c. &c. in our common Lord,
G. W.
LETTER MCCCLVI.
To Mr. R—— K——n.