My very dear Friends,
IF you choose it, you may now be released; but the aspect of affairs at home, is by no means promising. Many, many think of going abroad. However, you will be so kind as to see the bearers of this settled before you remove. Mr. C——ne, a worthy disinterested creature, is to be steward of the house: he is a particular heart-friend of Mr. W——t’s. Mr. W——t’s sister is an approved housekeeper, and the little female orphans are to be committed to her care. Mr. L——y hath had an university education, is a good writer and accomptant, hath been with me some time, and is to be a school-master. I long to know how poor Peter and Ephraim go on, and likewise his sister at Savannah. I and Mr. W——t hope to follow soon. But future things belong to Him who orders all things well. I believe; Lord, help my unbelief. His work prospers. That is all in all. Be pleased to have all accounts settled and audited, and take what you please for your passage, if determined to return. But—but—God keep you, through too fond affection, from taking a false step! My heart is full. If you come away, and Mr. S——k also goes away, I would have a letter of attorney given to Mr. C——ne. But it would be well if I could hear from you first. God direct and bless you all. I can only commend you to God and the word of his grace, and with ten thousand thanks for all your labours of love, subscribe myself, very dear friends,
Yours, &c. &c. &c. in our glorious Jesus,
G. W.
LETTER MCCCLXXXVI.
To Mr. J——ss.
London, May 17, 1768.
My dear Man,
GO forward, go forward, is the watch-word of the present day. Never mind the envious cry of elder brethren. Had they been harkened to, the prodigal must never have come home, nor Goliah’s head have been cut off. All temple builders, especially when called out to work in the field, must endure not only the contradictions of sinners, but the contradiction of saints also. Happy are they who are so deeply engaged in building, as not to have time to hearken to either. I long to come and lend an helping, though feeble hand. But Welch horses move slowly. If the Welch apostle comes, I purpose, in the Whitsun week, to make a short excursion into Sussex and Kent, and then for Bristol. Blessed be God, the shout of a king is heard in our camps! All your family is well. All will be more than well, when we come to our house in heaven. Let us march forward with palms of victory in our hands, crying, “Hallelujah! the Lord God omnipotent reigneth!” Tender love to all. I hope to answer Mrs. R——s person. The Lord Jesus be with your spirits! Cease not to pray for, my dear man,