_To Mr. F――――._
_Lisbon, March 31, 1754._
_Dear Sir_,
I OWE you much love.――I wish you and yours much ♦happiness, and
earnestly pray that you may walk together many years as heirs of the
grace of life. Was I to be confined long in my present situation, I
should be in danger of envying my protestant friends, who breathe in
a free air, and are taught to worship the father of spirits in spirit
and in truth. This I fear is the lot but of few here; all is pageantry
and pomp. Particulars perhaps I may send by another opportunity.
Blessed be GOD that I have seen and heard for myself. It surpasseth all
description. This week we expect to sail: I beg the continuance of both
your prayers; it will be a very great act of charity; for indeed I am
a poor helpless worm, but notwithstanding, if I know any thing of my
heart, willing to spend and be spent for JESUS. He doth not forsake me
on the mighty waters.――My fatherless charge are all well, and in due
time I hope we shall safely arrive at our desired port.――Ere long I
hope to be, from whence I shall never put to sea any more. O for a
triumphant entrance into the blissful harbour! JESUS is able to do this
for us. To his never-failing mercy do I earnestly commend you, your
brother, and all enquiring friends, as being, dear Sir,
Your affectionate, obliged friend,
and ready servant for CHRIST’s sake,
_G. W._
♦ “happipiness” replaced with “happiness”