_To Mr. C―――― W――――._
_London, December 13, 1753._
_My dear Friend_,
THE searcher of hearts alone knows the sympathy I have felt for you and
yours, and what suspence my mind hath been in concerning the event of
your present circumstances. I pray and enquire, enquire and pray again,
always expecting to hear the worst. Ere this can reach you, I expect
the lot will be cast either for life or death. I long to hear, that I
may partake like a friend either of your joy and sorrow. Blessed be GOD
for that promise, whereby we are assured, that “all things shall work
together for good to those that love him.” This may make us at least
resigned, when called to part with our _Isaacs_. But who knows the pain
of parting, when the wife and the friend are conjoined? To have the
desire of one’s eyes cut off with a stroke, what but grace, omnipotent
grace, can enable us to bear it? But who knows, perhaps the threatened
stroke may be recalled. Surely the LORD of all lords is preparing you
for further usefulness by these complex trials. We must be purged, if
we would bring forth more fruit. Your brother I hear is better; to-day
I intended to have seen him, but Mr. _B――――_ sent me word he thought
he would be out for the air. I hope Mr. _H――――_ is better; but I can
scarce mention any body now but dear Mrs. _W――――_. Pray let me know how
it goes with you. My wife truly joins in sympathy and love. Night and
day indeed you are remembered by, my dear friend,
Yours, &c.
_G. W._