_To the Reverend Mr. J―――― R――――._
_Wicoacommoca, May 16, 1747._
CAN souls united in JESUS’s love ever forget one another? It is
difficult, though I believe possible, and in dull seasons I fear too
common. However, blessed be the Redeemer, I have not yet forgotten my
dear Mr. _R――――_. As a proof it, I send you these few lines by Captain
_Adams_. You see whence they are dated. Methinks I see you rejoice,
and ready to say, “And have the _Marylanders_ also received the grace
of GOD?” I trust some have indeed received his grace in sincerity.
The harvest is promising.――The heat tries my wasting tabernacle, but,
through CHRIST strengthening me, I intend persisting till I drop. Since
I saw you, the glorious _Emmanuel_ has multiplied my obligations to
spend and be spent in his service a thousand-fold. The language of my
heart at present is,
_A willing and a chearful mind,_
_That life and all things cast behind,_
_Springs forth obedient to thy call;_
_A heart that no desire can move,_
_But still to adore, believe and love,_
_Give me, my CHRIST, my GOD, my all._
O dear Sir, continue to pray for me, that I may not flag in the latter
stages of my road. I was in hopes of seeing you this Summer, but am
afraid my engagements to preach in _North-Carolina_ next _October_
will prevent me. However, you and the other dear neighbouring ministers
are always upon my heart. I pity them in their present distressing
circumstances, and pray that they and you may have grace given to
endure hardness like good soldiers of JESUS CHRIST. Your dear father
I hear is discharged from all campaigns.――Ere long, the captain of our
salvation will command us home also. The LORD grant that we may die
like soldiers, fighting against the devil, the world, and the flesh.
How are your dear brothers and son? Pray give my hearty love to them,
and to your dear wife, and whole houshold. I salute you all from my
dear fellow pilgrim now at _Philadelphia_; and praying that you may
have thousands to be your joy and crown of rejoicing in the great day,
I subscribe myself, reverend and very dear Sir,
Your very affectionate friend, brother and willing servant in
JESUS CHRIST,
_G. W._