_To the Rev. Mr. G――――._
_London, March 17, 1749._
_My dear Brother_,
WHAT a blessed thing it is, that we can write to, when we cannot see
one another! By this means we increase our joys, and lessen our sorrows,
and as it were exchange hearts. Thanks be to the LORD JESUS, that the
work flourishes with you. I am glad your children grow so fast; they
become fathers soon; I wish some may not prove dwarfs at last. A word
to the wise is sufficient. I have always found awakening times like
spring times. Many blossoms, but not always so much fruit. But go on,
my dear man, and in the strength of the LORD you shall do valiantly.
I long to be your way, but I suppose it will be two months first. My
love awaits Mrs. _H――――_ and all that love the LORD JESUS in sincerity.
Pray tell my dear Mr. _I――――_ that I cannot now answer the _Preston_
letter, being engaged in answering a virulent pamphlet, entitled, “_The
Enthusiasm of the Methodists and Papists compared_,” supposed to be
done by the Bishop of _E――――_. Thus it must be. If we will be temple
builders, we must have temple builders lot; I mean, hold a sword in one
hand and a trowel in the other. The LORD make us faithful _Nehemiahs_,
for we have many _Sanballats_ to deal with! but wherefore should we
fear? If CHRIST be for us, who can be against us? _Nil desperandum,
christo duce_, is the christian’s motto. My dear brother, good night.
May the LORD JESUS be with your spirit, and make you wise to win souls,
even wise as an angel of GOD! Remember me in the kindest manner to
honest hearted Mr. _I――――_, and tell him, that in a post or two I hope
he will hear again from
His and your most affectionate though unworthy brother
and fellow-labourer in CHRIST’s vineyard,
_G. W._