_To Mr. K――――n._
_Leith, May 14, 1763._
_My dear old steady Friend_,
WHY so fearful of writing a longer letter? The longer the better.
Blessed be GOD, though disappointed in embarking, by reason of sickness,
I can read, and write, and hope (notwithstanding a little cold, which
threw me somewhat back this week) soon to get upon my throne again. The
news about the congregations, you may well guess rejoiced my poor heart.
Surely Mr. _H――――_ will not get to heaven before me too. What an age do
we live in! Children thus to take the lead of their parents. Heavenly
Father, not my will, but thine be done! I expect to-morrow’s interview.
A single eye will carry us through all. A catholic spirit is the plague
of bigots. LORD JESUS, cure them of their bad distemper! I rejoice to
hear that good Lady _H――――n_ is so supported. Pray remember me in the
kindest manner to dear Mr. _H――――y_. As I have not heard from him for
two or three posts, I fear he is worse. Pray let him know of my sending
this; and inform him of my having been able to go upon the water to-day
for several hours, and by land afterwards. Others can die, but I cannot.
Father, thy will be done! What a GOD do I serve? Physicians, friends
on every side of me. And what is all in all, the great physician
comforting my soul. Thank, O thank him in behalf of a worthless worm.
Tender love to Mrs. _K――――n_, Mr. and Mrs. _B――――n_, Mr. and Mrs.
_J――――_, and all dear friends, who are so kind as to be concerned
for me. You will be very fine when all is painted. Blessed be GOD,
I approve your conduct, and love your spirit. LORD JESUS, make us
all glorious within! I must drop a line to dear Mr. _A――――_ about
Mr. _H――――_, or you should have more from, my dear old steady friend,
Yours, &c. &c. &c. in JESUS,
_G. W._