_To Mr. S――――._
_Plymouth, July 21, 1744._
I Expected a line from you this morning; but I suppose you think we are
gone. This day came in a privateer, which saw the _Brest_ Squadron that
has pursued two of our men of war, the _Dreadnought_ and _Frederick_;
so that had we sailed, we should in all probability have been carried
into _France_. We are now to go under convoy of the grand fleet; many
letters from our friends at _Portsmouth_ inform us, that they are to
sail on _Sunday_; but the wind hath not been very favourable, so we may
yet stay some days longer. I never was so easy in this respect before.
In one or two things I find my will reluctant; but JESUS will bring all
things in subjection to him. I have been greatly refreshed this evening
in preaching his blood. The congregations grow visibly every day.
You will see the letter from _Kingsbridge_.――Last night many from the
_Dock_ came and guarded me home, being apprehensive there was a design
against me. Without my knowledge, they insulted a man who intended to
hurt me, for which I am sorry. We had a wonderful good time last night.
O help me to praise my Saviour! My health is better. I hope you got to
_London_ well. Whether we sail or not, expect to hear again from dear,
dear _J――――_,
Ever, ever yours, &c.
_G. W._
_Open a door, which earth and hell_
_May strive to shut, but strive in vain;_
_Let thy word richly with them dwell,_
_And let their gracious fruit remain!_