_To Mr. S――――._
_Nantwich, October 18, 1753._
_My very dear Sir_,
I am now at an Inn, but cannot go farther, without giving you an
account of my last week’s circuit. Since my last, I have been at
_Birmingham_, and several adjacent places. Still fresh work hath been
done, and souls fled to the gospel like doves to the windows. At a
place near _Dudley_, called _Guarnall_, I heard of a whole company
awakened by reading my poor sermons. I met with others awakened years
ago; and at one place, an old saint said, “this is the old story
fifty-five years ago.” Another near as old, said, “I was comforted when
you came last, now GOD hath sent you to me again, and I can go more
chearful to heaven.” I have heard of a great reprobate, a notorious
persecutor and drunkard, who hath been struck most powerfully. O
my dear Sir; what shall you have for helping me in outward things,
assisting me by your prayers, and thereby causing me to press forward
more chearfully in this delightful work of publishing the everlasting
gospel! I am now going to a neighbouring village, after that to
_Chester_, and from thence, purpose to return through _Staffordshire_.
GOD willing, you shall hear how it goes on, when I come to cross-plough
the ground again. In the mean while, be pleased to accept this as a
token of my love, gratitude, and respect unfeigned, and after giving my
most hearty love to dear Mrs. _S――――_ and your dear little daughter, I
subscribe myself, very dear Sir,
Your most unworthy, though most obliged friend,
and ready servant in our common LORD,
_G. W._