_To Mr. P――――._
_Bath-Town, North-Carolina, Oct. 6, 1747._
_Dear Mr. P――――_,
OUR affectionate parting is not yet out of my remembrance. Since that,
I hope you have been diligent, and ere now have got an evidence that we
shall not be parted hereafter. O for assurance! It is indeed the anchor
of the soul. It keeps it steady in the midst of storms. Dear Sir,
press after it, as you value your present as well as eternal welfare.
Tell the LORD JESUS, you cannot do without it. I once thought dear Mr.
_P――――_ would be one of the first-rate christians in _New-England_.
What hath hindered you? Whatever it be, whether a right hand or a right
eye, may the LORD JESUS take it away! Will you say _Amen_ heartily?
You will excuse this freedom. I always write so to those I love. Pray
remember me to your mother, wife, and all friends. Tell them I am
here, hunting after sinners in _North-Carolina_ woods. It is pleasant
work, though my body is weak and crazy. After a short fermentation in
the grave, it will be fashioned like unto CHRIST’s glorious body. The
thought of this rejoices my soul, and makes me long to leap my seventy
years. O pray for me, that I may have patience to tarry the LORD’s
leisure. I commit you to his care. I charge you in his great name, not
to let me miss you in heaven, and with much love subscribe myself, dear
Mr. _P――――_,
Your very affectionate friend, and willing servant for
CHRIST’s sake,
_G. W._