G. W.
[¹] The very same censures are too justly applicable to the volume of sermons, now published by Mr. Gurney, as Mr. Whitefield’s.——Relying on the accuracy of the shorthand-writer, and on the fidelity of the reverend gentleman who was to revise the sermons, and on their joint regard for the memory of Mr. Whitefield, his executors did agree to recommend the intended publication, and promote its sale; for which, a consideration was to be paid by Mr. Gurney, to be applied by them, according to the tenor of Mr. Whitefield’s Will. But on their receiving nine of the sermons, (worked off) to their great surprise, they found themselves, after perusal, unable to authenticate them, either as to language or sentiments; therefore judged them utterly unfit for publication, and told Mr. Gurney, that on no consideration whatever, could they recommend them to the public. The executors are extremely concerned on Mr. Gurney’s account, as well as for the character of their late worthy friend; and now wish that they had not rested with the hearing only one half-sheet read to them, but had insisted on seeing the whole Manuscript, and every sheet from the press. However, though Mr. Gurney ought to have stopped the press when first applied to, and although the agreement was never signed by either of the parties, the executors have repeatedly offered, that, besides chearfully renouncing all advantages, they will pay whatever expences Mr. Gurney hath been at in the affair, and so take and burn the whole impression; as otherwise the purchasers must be deceived, and the name of the deceased sorely wounded.
LETTER MCCCCXLI.
To Mr. R—— K——n.
On board the Friendship, Captain Ball, in Five-fathom Hole, about ten miles from Charles-Town, South-Carolina. November 30, 1769.
My dear Friend,
WE have had a long, and in several respects a trying passage. Particulars expect by the packet, which the pilot says will sail in two or three days. This day week we first saw land; came over the bar the 28th instant, and should have been at Charles-Town that evening, but our ship was too light to obey the helm. We had the mortification of seeing ten sailing in before us, and we ever since left in jeopardy. Surely Satan foresees some signal good attending this voyage. In the midst of all, blessed be God, we have had plenty of outward things; and I am in better health than at the end of any voyage I have made for some years. Mr. Smith hath really behaved well, and been very handy and attentive. The same may be said of Mr. Winter. We have been like the three children in the fiery furnace. But the Son of God hath been, and is (O amazing grace!) still with us. Please to remember us to all concerned. Hoping soon to write from on shore, and most earnestly praying, that grace, mercy and peace, may be multiplied upon you all, I must hasten to subscribe my old but true name, “The chief of sinners, less than the least of all saints,” but
Your affectionate, obliged friend, and willing servant to all,
G. W.