London, December 28, 1767.
Reverend and dear Sir,
WHY do you and I exchange letters so seldom? Perhaps it would be better to correspond more frequently. This brings you the good news of the triumphant death of the late Earl of B——n. He behaved like the patriarch Jacob, when by faith leaning upon his staff, he blessed his children. The Earl added, “Yea, and they shall be blessed.” “Had I strength of body, (cried the Earl) I would not be ashamed before men and angels to tell what the Lord Jesus hath done for my soul. Come, holy Ghost, come, holy Ghost; happy, happy, happy!” and then sweetly slept in Jesus. The present noble Earl, I believe, hath got the blessing indeed, and seems, upon the best evidence, to determine to know nothing but Jesus Christ, and him crucified. He hath behaved in the most delicate manner to the Countess, and other noble survivors. He stands here in town, against all opposition, like an impregnable rock; and I humbly hope will prove the Daniel of the age. He must be, nay he hath been already thrown into a den of lions; but he hath one with him, that stops the lions mouths. You will encourage all God’s people to pray for him. What if you wrote him a line? I am sure it will be taken kindly; for I know he honours and loves you much. You will communicate this to dear Mr. M——ch, who, I suppose, like me, is groaning, being burdened. I am now fifty-three years old. Did you ever hear of such a fifty-three years old barren fig-tree? So much digging, so much dunging, and yet so little fruit. God be merciful to me a sinner! A sinner—a sinner—a sinner. He is merciful; he is gracious: his mercy endureth for ever. He yet vouchsafes to bless my feeble labours. You would have been delighted to have seen the awful scene exhibited at Bath, whilst the late noble Earl lay in state. Two sermons every day; life and power attended the word; and I verily believe many dead souls were made to hear the voice of the Son of God. Since that we have been favoured with comfortable seasons in town. I hope you are blessed in Glasgow. Who knows but we may have one more interview in Spring? Whether we meet next on earth or in heaven, you will find that with great sincerity I subscribe myself, reverend and very dear Sir,
Yours, &c. &c. &c. in our glorious Jesus,
G. W.
LETTER MCCCLXXXIV.
To Mr. W——b.
London, February 4, 1768.
My dear Sir,