_To the Reverend Mr. S――――._
_Philadelphia, June 23, 1747._
_Reverend and dear Sir_,
SINCE my last, I have been several times on the verge of eternity.
To-day I have got a few more spirits. I would improve them in answering
your kind letter, which I received yesterday. I am obliged to _Charles-
Town_ friends: their example will certainly influence many here.
Something is upon the anvil. Particulars expect in my next. To-morrow,
GOD willing, I set out for _New-York_, to see if I can gain strength.
At present I am so weak, that I cannot preach.――’Tis hard work to be
silent; but I must be tried every way. Friends are exceeding kind. What
is the best of all, the friend of sinners looks in upon, and comforts
my heart. I have had loud calls to _England_. Matters go on bravely
there and in _Wales_. My _State Sermon_ has gone through two editions.
They have also my five last sermons, which have convinced my friends
that I am firm to my principles. May JESUS keep me steady till I die!
I am glad Mr. _P――――_ went off so well. His children I look upon as my
own. The things which he had belong to me. I would have them taken to
_Providence_: for that also _Deus providebit_. Your father is well, and
always talking of you. Why did you not mention his wife in your letter?
She is a discreet woman, and desired to be remembered to you. Every day
she expects to lie in. You will excuse my enlarging.――Strength begins
to fail me. However, whilst I have strength I would employ it in
praying for you and yours. I subscribe myself, reverend and very dear
Sir,
Yours most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS,
_G. W._