_To Mr. H――――._
_London, May 21, 1743._
_My very dear faithful Friend and Brother_,
AFTER watching, and praying, and striving some days for direction and
assistance, I now sit down to write you a letter; though I know not
well what to say or do. The concern I have felt for you, and my dear
family, has had an effect on my body, and increased that weakness,
which the season of the year, my constant labours, and continual care
upon various accounts, have brought upon me. In the midst of all,
my soul I trust grows, and is kept happy in the blessed JESUS. His
strength is daily made perfect in my weakness, and I am made more than
conqueror through his love. I am somewhat concerned, that scarce any of
my letters have reached your hands. I was glad, however, to find, that
you had received one dated in _May_ last. Since that, I hope you have
received more. I rejoice that our loving Saviour has not permitted
you to want. You are his family, and he would not detain me from you,
had not he determined to provide for you in my absence. I fear I have
been sinfully impatient to come over. I think, I could be sold a slave
to serve at the gallies, rather than you and my dear Orphan-family
should want. Sometimes my wicked heart has said, “if I know I should
have staid so long, I would not have come over to _England_ at all.”
But GOD’s thoughts are not as our thoughts. It is best to be kept at
his feet, waiting to know what he would have us to do. By and by we
shall know all; ’till then, let us wait patiently; against hope may we
believe in hope, and being strong in faith give glory to GOD. After I
have fought the LORD’s battles in _Moor-fields_ these holidays, I think
to take a tour into _Cornwall_ and _Wales_, and perhaps, to _Ireland_.
I have sometimes thought I am detained on purpose to go there. I wonder
not at your silence. You may well expect me; but I must not mention
it, lest my impatient heart should again say, “LORD, why wilt thou not
let me go?” My first fellow-traveller, scarce a day passes without my
speaking of, and often praying for you. Old love has revived long since
in my soul. I am persuaded, our LORD will reward you even in this life,
for your fidelity to unworthy me. “Be strong in the LORD and in the
power of his might.” While I am writing the fire kindles, and I almost
forget my bodily weakness. The LORD be with you. I hear the _Spaniards_
intend a second invasion; but those words still follow and comfort me,
“The enemies which you have seen, you shall see no more for ever.” You
are the LORD’s family; he will take care of you; fear them not. I have
many things to impart, when I see you face to face. ’Till then the LORD
JESUS be with your spirit, and grant that you and yours may increase
with all the increase of GOD. In bonds of an eternal friendship, with
greater affection than words can well express, I subscribe myself,
Ever, ever yours,
_G. W._