London, October 23, 1767.
My dear Sir,
BY your brother Peter’s letter, the hour of expulsion is not yet come. Surely they will not be so imprudent, or act so contrary to the laws of English liberty. I long to know what statutes they say you have broken, what concessions have been made. Your diocesan will make a strict enquiry. I wish you could recollect all circumstances; the rise and progress of the present contest; with all the various pleadings, threats, conferences, pro and con. The issue of the trial you may leave to the Judge; he is always the injured prisoners friend. If confined to college, this will be a good exercise for you. You may lodge it in court, as a proof whether you understand to write plain English, or sound, practical, experimental divinity. This can do you no harm; it may do good. Do therefore set about it. I know one who will readily revile and correct, if necessary. The Lord Jesus be with your spirits! You see how I write, out of the fulness of my heart. Sick suffering soldiers must be attended. If ever so busy, for the sake of the glorious Captain of our salvation, you shall receive a line by way of answer from, my dear Sir,
Yours, &c. &c. &c.
G. W.
P. S. I shall send the original to your Fidus Achates, in ——, but I shall keep a copy. Who knows? Sauls may yet become Pauls.
LETTER MCCCLXXIII.
To Mr. A——s.
London, October 24, 1767.