_To Mrs. D――――._
_London, March 15, 1744._
_Dear Madam_,
SHALL I promise and not perform? GOD forbid! This comes in answer to
your commands, and to inform you, that through him who has the hearts
of all men in his hands, we came off more than conquerors, respecting
our _Gloucester_ trial. The rioters were brought in guilty, and I
suppose will have an execution issued out against them next Term. I
hear they are hugely alarmed; but they know not that we intend to let
them see what we could do, and then to forgive them. This troublesome
affair being now over, I must prepare for my intended voyage. They
tell me there is a ship going from _Portsmouth_. GOD willing, I
purpose to take my passage in it, and though calls come to me from
every quarter, yet I must; once more visit my dear family in _America_.
Some well-meaning people threaten me with I know not what, if I embark
at this time; but my absence hath been so long and unexpected, that
come what will, I am determined to prosecute my intended voyage; and
therefore whether we meet any more in the flesh, I trust we shall meet
in the world of spirits, where parting, weeping, and breaking of hearts
will no more disturb and try the affections of, dear Madam,
Yours in the dear _Emmanuel_,
_G. W._