_To Captain H――――y._
_Bristol, June 16, 1758._
_My very dear Sir_,
THE _Welch_ roads have almost demolished my open one-horse chaise,
as well as me. But it is in JESUS’s cause. Grace! grace! I am almost
ashamed to think of your being put to so much trouble, in procuring a
close chaise for unworthy me. I like the purchase exceeding well, and
send a pepper-corn of acknowledgment for this and all other unmerited
favours. The GOD whom I desire to serve in the gospel of his dear
Son, knows and will reward all. Though I thought I heard the sound
of my blessed Master’s chariot wheels ready to carry me to heaven,
yet it should seem I am once more to see you, and your dear relations,
and my other christian friends on earth. Some time next week I hope
to be there. The legacy is wonderful; much better left for the poor
than me. I can give it away with a good grace: at present I think the
Orphan-house shall have the whole; it is much wanted there. See, my
dear Sir, how the christian’s blessings must be brought out of the
fire. It is inconceivable what I have undergone within these three
weeks. I never was so before. I trust some lasting blessings have
been left behind in _Wales_. Welcome shocks, both of body and mind. In
such a case it is worth dying for. Dear Mr. _D――――_ hath felt them in
_London_, as I have done in _Wales_.――All for the Elect’s sake. Welcome,
thrice welcome the bitter sweets, which the all-wise and compassionate
Physician prescribes; but I am a stubborn patient. O what gripings of
the old man are discovered by such dispensations! I must away to preach.
I thank you heartily, dear Sir, for the continuance of your prayers,
and with most cordial respects to your dear and near relations, I beg
leave to subscribe myself,
Yours, &c.
_G. W._