_To Lady G――――._
_Plymouth, Feb. 22, 1749._
_Honoured Madam_,
YOUR Ladyship’s letter I received yesterday; I trust under some sense
of the honour your Ladyship has done me, through the King of kings
making me instrumental in quickening or building up your Ladyship’s
precious and immortal soul. Like a pure chrystal, I would transmit all
the glory he is pleased to pour upon me, and never claim as my own,
what is his sole propriety. Thanks be to his great and glorious name,
for putting it into your Ladyship’s heart to say sincerely, “LORD,
increase my faith.” When I had read your Ladyship’s letter, I could not
help observing what a connection there was between the present frame
of your Ladyship’s heart, and your present circumstances in respect
to your servant. For how is it, honoured Madam, that our faith is
to be increased, but by our being exercised with trials? By these the
christian grows; and faith, like the burning bush amidst the furnace of
affliction, flourishes unconsumed. Blessed be GOD, that your Ladyship
hath taken hold of a great and precious promise. Our LORD has promised,
“that he will not suffer us to be tempted above what we are able to
bear.” And he is faithful that hath promised. We have nothing to do,
but to plead his promise in prayer. Be pleased, therefore, honoured
Madam, to solace yourself, under your present distress, with these
lines: