_To the Reverend Mr. P――――._
_London, Nov. 19, 1748._
_Reverend and dear Sir_,
IT is a concern to me, that I cannot write to more of my _New-England_
friends than I do; for indeed a multiplicity of business renders a more
frequent correspondence impracticable. However, I would willingly send
you, dear Sir, a few lines. They are lines of love, and bring you news
of my being better in health than I have been for many years last past.
Several things have concurred to prove it was the divine will I should
return this time to my native country. Matters were in great confusion
by reason of Mr. _C――――_’s going over to the _Moravians_; but blessed
be GOD, we are now easy at the Tabernacle, and the word falls with
weight and power. In _Scotland_ the LORD JESUS was pleased to appear
for me; I found no diminution in respect to the number of hearers; and,
I believe, (thanks be to free grace) my preaching was more acceptable
than ever to GOD’s people, and to those ministers who were pleased
formerly to own and encourage me. Some of the opposite party begun a
like stir with that which was made in _New-England_ by Dr. _C――――_, &c.
but I believe it will only make the people more eager to hear, and in
the end be productive of great good. Our LORD orders all things well. I
never enjoyed more settled peace and joy than now. I trust he has given
me to see many things that were wrong, and withal a disposition to
confess and amend them. At present, this is the language of my heart:
_Correct me when I go astray,_
_And lead me in the perfect way._
I suppose you will be acquainted with particulars by some of my dear
friends from _Scotland_. In all probability I shall go to _Scotland_
again in the Spring; and, in the latter end of the year, I propose
embarking for _America_. But future things belong to GOD. Thanks be to
his great name, I am willing to go any where, so that I may but glorify
the dear Redeemer. Ere this reaches you, doubtless you will have heard
of his giving me favour in the sight of Lady _H――――n_, a Lady as good
as she is great. Two or three among the great, I trust have been made
the happy subjects of redeeming love. I have heard lately also of
the conversion of two or three clergymen; there is likewise a great
awakening in _Ireland_, and in _Wales_ the work goes on. Upon the
whole, I believe the gospel is getting ground, and next spring, when
it is proper to range about and preach in the fields, I hope to see
yet greater things. I repeat my old request, reverend and dear brother,
“Pray for us.” I continually pray for you, and the people committed to
your charge. I wish you and yours an increase of blessings, and beg
leave to subscribe myself, Reverend and very dear Sir,
Yours, &c.
_G. W._