_To Lady H――――n._
_London, December 31, 1755._
_Ever-honoured Madam_,
YOUR Ladyship’s kind and condescending letter should not have lain
so long by me, had not bodily weakness, and my _Christmas_ labours,
prevented my writing. Indeed and indeed my good Lady, it hath been
a joyful mournful season to my inward man. For exclusive of a pretty
sharp outward trial, _Saturday_ last being my birth-day, my soul was
deeply exercised from morning till evening, in thinking how much in
one-and-forty years I have sinned against, and how little I have done
for an infinitely good and ever-blessed GOD. This impression yet lies
deep upon my heart, and therefore, through divine assistance, I purpose
to end the old year in preaching on those words, “I abhor myself, and
repent in dust and ashes.” O that all things belonging to the old man,
may die in me, and all things belonging to the new man live and grow
in me! But alas, this is a work of time. Every day and every hour must
we be passing from death to life. Mortification and vivification make
up the whole of the divine work in the new-born soul. Come, LORD JESUS,
come quickly; have compassion on this barren fig-tree, and if it is
to be spared another year, so dig and dung round it, that it may bring
forth much fruit unto GOD! But shall I conceal the goodness of my
long-suffering Master? No: I dare not;――for in spite of my unworthiness,
he still continues to smile upon my poor ministrations, and gives me
to see his stately steps in the great congregations. A noble chapel
is now opened in _Long-acre_, where I am to read prayers and preach
twice a week. Hundreds went away last night, who could not come in; but
those that could, I trust, met with JESUS. Mr. _C――――_ and I have met
twice, and hope for a third interview very soon. LORD JESUS, make me
a peace-maker! I am obliged to Mrs. _W――――_ and the other Ladies for
their kind remembrance of an unworthy worm. I return it, by earnestly
praying, that they and your Ladyship may be filled with all the
fulness of GOD. I can rise no higher, and therefore, with all possible
acknowledgments for all unmerited favours, I must hasten to subscribe
myself, ever-honoured Madam,
Your Ladyship’s most dutiful, obliged, and
very ready servant for CHRIST’s sake,
_G. W._