_To Mr. R―――― K――――n._
_Newcastle, 30 miles from Philadelphia, May 4, 1765._
_My dear Mr. K――――n_,
I AM just come here, in my way to embark from _Philadelphia_. But how
shall I do it? Every where the door opens wider and wider. All along,
from _Charles-Town_ to this place, the cry is, “for CHRIST’s sake
stay and preach to us.” O for a thousand lives to spend for JESUS!
He is good, he is good! His mercy endureth for ever. Help, help,
my dear _English_ friends, to bless and praise Him. The letters by
Captain _Ball_, I hear are sent from _Charles-Town_, in my trunk, to
_Philadelphia_. I expect to receive them this evening. Thanks be to GOD,
all outward things are settled on this side the water. The auditing the
accounts, and laying a foundation for a college, hath silenced enemies
and comforted friends. The finishing this affair confirms my call to
_England_ at this time. But I have no manner of prospect of being able
to serve the tabernacle and chapel. I cannot preach once now, without
being quite exhausted. How then shall I bear the cares of both those
places? But I must beg you and dear Mr. _H――――y_ to continue trustees
when I am present, as well as in my absence. I wish that a ship was
ready now, perhaps I may yet sail from _New-York_. I am praying night
and day for direction. The word runs here, and is glorified. But the
weather, for two days, hath been so hot, that I could scarce move.
To-day it is much cooler. I dread the shaking of the ship. But if it
shakes this tottering frame to pieces, it will be a trading voyage
indeed. As Mr. _Blake_ is not mentioned in your last, I hope he is
recovered. Death will do this for us all. Blessed be GOD, for enabling
young Mr. _Beckman_ to face it so triumphantly! This must be a great
cordial to the afflicted parents. That they, your dear relations,
and all my tried friends, may be comforted yet more and more, is the
earnest prayer of, my very dear Sir,
Yours, theirs, &c. &c. in JESUS,
_G. W._