_To Mr. N――――._
_London, Nov. 25, 1749._
_Very dear Sir_,
FOR some few days I have been returned from my northern rout, in which
the glorious _Emmanuel_ gave me to see new wonders every day. It was
no small concern to me to turn my back on _Scotland_, when so near.
However it hath been greatly over-ruled for good. I have thereby been
called to preach in many fresh places, and, glory be to GOD, I saw
thousands flock to the hearing of the gospel, like doves to the windows.
The generous offer made me by yourself and lady, I took exceeding kind,
and gladly would I have embraced it, but――――Well! what is, is best.
“Father, not my will but thine be done.” Perhaps I may see you in the
Spring; if not, ere long, dear Sir, we shall meet in heaven. My wife
tells me, she answered Lady _I――――_’s letter immediately. In this she
joins, sending most grateful acknowledgments and cordial salutations.
Blessed be GOD, we are both well, and surrounded with mercies on every
side.――Only ungrateful, ill, and hell-deserving I, want a grateful and
an humble heart. I am altogether an unprofitable servant, but our LORD
I trust will purge me, that I may bring forth more fruit: for by this,
and this only, I know our heavenly father is glorified. What I am most
afraid of is, lest I should flag in the latter stages of my road. But
he that hath loved and helped, will, dear Sir, love and help me to the
end. I am persuaded your prayers and the prayers of christian friends
will be very serviceable. O that you may be kept alive and warm in this
cold declining day! Poor _Scotland_, I pity thee! I will pray for thy
prosperity till I can pray no more! Be pleased to present our joint
love and cordial respects to all friends in general, and we entreat
you and yours to accept the same in a most particular manner from, very
dear Sir,
Yours most affectionately in our common LORD,
_G. W._