_To the Same._
_Exeter, October 28, 1743._
I Have strong conviction that our LORD intends doing something in the
west. Since my arrival here, letters of invitation have come from many
parts. I thank you for your kind sympathy under the many trials, with
which I have been surrounded and exercised. I find there is a needs-be
for all; for by our being acquainted with the enemy’s work in our own
hearts, we see how he works on others, and are enabled to speak better
to their hearts. “Whether we are afflicted (says the apostle,) or
whether we are comforted, it is for your sake.” Besides, by temptation
we are kept from sinking into formality, and consequently are taught
better to handle our spiritual weapons, and discover what is amiss
both in heart and life. For this cause, we are commanded to rejoice
when we fall into divers temptations. I thank GOD for giving you some
experience of these things. We must now all be _Calebs_; all heart, but
at the same time, all humility. Feeling we can do nothing of ourselves,
yet believing we can do all things through CHRIST strengthening us.
Blessed be his Name, the common people begin to feel. I preached
between two and three this afternoon on _Southern-hay_, and expounded
in the evening at Mr. _K――――_’s. Even some of the polite were much
affected last night; and this morning, O what a blessed season had
we! I believe I shall think it my duty to stay in these parts for some
time. Continue to pray for me, and assure yourself that you are never
forgotten by
Yours, &c.
_G. W._