_To Mr. S――――._
_Newark, September 27, 1754._
_My very dear Sir_,
THE searcher of hearts only knows what struggles and tossings your
last letter, as well as that of dear Mr. _W――――_, hath occasioned
in my breast. Affection, intense affection cries aloud, “Away to
_New-England_, to dear _New-England_ directly.” Providence, and
the circumstances of the Southern provinces, point directly towards
_Virginia_ and the Orphan-house. In the former, I am told, the door is
opening in earnest; and the business of the latter requires my presence
this Winter. These being dispatched, my mind will be disburdened, and
my heart free for a large range in _New-England_. For this, I hereby
give you and my dear never to be forgotten friends, a promissory note
of hand. _Deo volente_, I will perform it, before I leave _America_.
I think I can take shipping from _Boston_ for _England_. It will not
do to go thence to the _West-Indies_, because I cannot go without a
companion, and that companion (if possible) is to be Captain _G――――_.
These are my present thoughts. Have a little patience, and by delaying
for a short time, I shall enjoy more of my dear friends company: this
is what I want to be filled with. In the mean while, my enemies may be
preparing their artillery. I have nothing but a sling and a stone. I
trust that my determination is agreeable to the mind of JESUS. Many of
his true ministers have been consulted, earnest prayers have been made,
and I humbly hope the event will be glorious. What a pity is it that
we can have but one body and one soul to glorify the blessed Redeemer
with! LORD, accept my two worthless mites, and help me at length to
begin to begin to do something for thy great name’s sake! The worthy
President, who was to be my companion to _Boston_, will let you know
how affairs go. Blessed be GOD, the shout of a king hath been amongst
us. I am extremely well pleased with the synod and commencement. O that
I had wings! then would I fly, if it was only just to have a sight of
you and yours, and my dear and worthy friends.――But――I must say no more.
Pray, pray earnestly, my dear friend, for him, who is less than the
least of all, indeed and indeed, but
Yours most affectionately, &c.
_G. W._