_To a friend in London._
_Bethesda, Dec. 24, 1746._
_My dear Brother_,
I Thank you heartily for your very kind letter, which I now snatch a
few moments to answer. The account you gave of things, made me mourn
that they were in so bad a situation, and at the same time I could
not help rejoicing they were no worse: You and all that attended on
my preaching, and had opportunities to converse with me privately,
cannot be ignorant how many hints I gave of what has happened. It might
have been foreseen and spoken of without a spirit of prophecy, and
consequently did not so much surprise me when I found it came to pass;
but I trust the storm is now blown over, and that the little flock will
enjoy a sweet calm. O that your eyes may be looking towards and waiting
on the blessed JESUS: from him alone can come your salvation, he will
be better to you than a thousand _Whitefields_.――I am afraid you are
too desirous of having me with you; and indeed I long to see you and
my other dear christian friends, but _America_ seems to be my scene
of action for some time. The harvest is great in many places, and the
labourers are very few. I am resolved in the strength of JESUS to range
more and more; hunting for souls is a delightful work, and I am ashamed
that I do no more. O my dear man, pray for me; indeed I do for you and
yours.――I am glad the LORD has appeared for you; he never fails those
that put their trust in him; only remember, “In the world, and yet not
_of_ it,” is the real christian’s motto.――That JESUS may continually
lift up the light of his blessed countenance upon you, give you and
yours all peace and joy in believing, is the earnest prayer of, my dear
man,
Your very affectionate friend, and servant for JESUS sake,
_G. W._
_P. S._ My tender tender love to all enquiring friends; my dear
yoke-fellow joins heartily: we are happy in JESUS, and happy in one
another.