PREFACE.

BEING now about to embark for _Georgia_, I am willing, before I go,

to give the world a short account of the Orphan-House erected there. I

have, therefore, in the following sheets, reprinted a continuation of

an account published when I was last at _Edinburgh_; to which I have

subjoined some letters received since; and also an account of money

received and disbursed since the publication of that account: and in

order to give the reader a view of this design from its beginning,

I have affixed my preface to the account I first published about two

years ago. I commend it to GOD. May he give it his blessing!

_G. W._

_London, January 14, 1743._

_Bethesda, December 23, 1741._

THE following sheets, to the best of my knowledge, contain a faithful

account of what money I have received, as also how I have disbursed it,

for the use of the Orphan-House in _Georgia_.

I think, with a full assurance of faith I may affirm, the LORD put it

into my heart to build that house. It has prospered beyond expectation.

It has already, and I hope will more and more answer its name,

_Bethesda_, and be a House of Mercy to the souls and bodies of many

people, both old and young.

When I left _England_, I proposed to take in only twenty children;

but when I arrived at _Georgia_, I found so many objects of charity,

besides the orphans, among poor people’s children, that I resolved in

this, as well as in all other respects, to imitate Professor _Franck_,

and make a provision for _their_ maintenance also.

Two of the orphan boys were put out apprentices just before I last left

_Savannah_; one to a bricklayer, the other was bound to a carpenter;

a third is to be bound to the surgeon belonging to the Orphan-House;

one weaves in a loom at home; two I have put to a taylor I brought

over, and the rest are now fitting themselves to be useful to the

commonwealth. Whoever among them appear to be sanctified, and have a

good natural capacity, these, under GOD, I intend for the ministry.

None of the girls are put out as yet, but are taught such things as

may make them serviceable whenever they go abroad. Two or three of them

spin very well. Some of them knit, wash, clean the house, get up the

linen, and are taught house-wifery. All that are capable, are taught to

sew. And the little girls, as well as the boys, are employed in picking

cotton. I think I have no less than three hundred and eighty-two yards

of cloth already in the house, and as much yarn spun as will make near

the same quantity; a thing not known before in _Georgia_.

I have now forty-nine children under my care, twenty-three _English_,

ten _Scots_, four _Dutch_, five _French_, seven _Americans_. Twenty-two

of these are fatherless and motherless, sixteen of them boys, and

six girls. The others are some fatherless, and some without mothers;

all objects of charity except three, whose friends recompense the

Orphan-House for their maintenance. One of the orphans is an infant;

I pay four shillings _per_ week for nursing it. Since _December_ last,

we have had above eighteen more children that have been maintained

occasionally, to assist their parents, but were dismissed when they

were wanted at home.

The account which I find Mr. _Seward_ has given of our œconomy, has in

a great measure prevented my doing it as I intended. Let it suffice to

inform our benefactors, that though the children are taught to labour

for the meat which perisheth, yet they are continually reminded to seek

_first_ the kingdom of GOD and his righteousness, and then to depend

upon GOD’s blessing on their honest endeavours, for having food and

raiment added unto them. This precept of our LORD, I intend, when the

house is finished, to have written over against the entrance in at the

great door.

As my design in founding the Orphan-House was to build up souls for GOD,

I endeavour to preach chiefly to the children’s hearts. But that they

may be able to give a reason of the hope that is in them, I constantly

instruct them by the Church of _England_’s Articles, which I turn into

catechetical questions. I am often pleased to hear how judiciously

some will answer the questions put to them. The power of GOD has been

frequently visible among the children. Many of the girls seem to be

tender-hearted; several of the boys have been under strong convictions.

And though it sometimes seems buried, yet I cannot but think the seed

of grace is sown in some of their hearts.

We are now all removed to _Bethesda_. We live in the out-houses at

present; but in less than two months, the great house will be finished

so as to receive the whole family.

It is now weather-boarded and shingled, and a piazza of ten feet wide

built all around it: which will be wonderfully convenient in the heat

of summer. One part of the house would have been entirely finished,

had not the _Spaniards_ lately taken from us a schooner loaded with ten

thousands bricks, and a great deal of provision, with one of our family.

And therefore, I could not till very lately procure another boat to

fetch brick from _Charles-Town_.

Notwithstanding this, and many other hindrances, the work has been

carried on with great success and speed. There are no less than four

framed houses, a large stable and cart-house, beside the great house.

In that there will be sixteen commodious rooms, besides a large cellar

of sixty feet long and forty wide. Near twenty acres of land are

cleared round about it, and a large road is made from _Savannah_ to

the Orphan-house, twelve miles in length: a thing, ever since the

province has been settled, without a precedent.

None but those upon the spot can tell the expence, as well as

inconvenience that attends building in _Georgia_. Most of the bricks

already used, cost 40s. sterling _per_ thousand, when landed at the

plantation. Common labourers, besides their provisions, have 25s.

sterling a month. And, after all, ♦the produce of the land cultivated

by white servants, will scarcely furnish them with ordinary food and

raiment, exclusive of the expences of sickness and wages. I cannot see

how it is possible for the Colony to subsist on its present footing.

And in a late memorial given in to the Honourable Trustees, unknown to

me, the people have declared, that if it were not for the money that

has been expended on account of the Orphan-house, the poor inhabitants

of the northern parts of the colony must have been obliged to move

to some other place. Never did a country stand more in need of a

charity-school.

♦ removed duplicate word “the”

We have often been in some difficulties, but the LORD as often hath

relieved us out of them. When the schooner was lost, a person lately

converted, sent us eleven barrels of rice, and five barrels of beef.

And in my absence, when my family had little or no provisions, the

_Indians_ brought in plenty of deer, till they were supplied with food

some other way. The contributions in _Charles-Town_, _New-England_,

_New-York_, and _Pensilvania_, I think have been extraordinary.

The infirmary, which has likewise been supported by this institution,

has been of great service. The surgeon informs me, that if every one

had been forced to pay for their nursing and medicines, it would have

cost them two hundred pounds, sterling. I have now three or four sick:

I keep a woman to attend them constantly.

GOD has much blessed our family with health. Only two have died out of

so large a number, since my arrival; and these were two that came with

me from _England_: a taylor, and one of the women: I believe they are

now with GOD.

I have left behind me, as my assistants, (who have no other gratuity

than food and raiment) two school-masters and their wives who are

school-mistresses. One young man, who is also married to a young

maiden, lately brought home to GOD, I have left at the Orphan-house, as

superintendent, and chief manager of the outward things. There are also

the surgeon and his wife, a shoemaker and spinstress; besides labourers

and monthly hired servants: I think, in all, I have upwards of eighty.

The LORD, I am persuaded, is able and willing to provide for them.

I think we have near two hundred hogs, and one hundred head of cattle.

I give a man forty pounds sterling, _per annum_, to take care of them;

he providing himself with provision, horses, and a servant. As yet

we have had no advantage from our stock, it being a very dry season

last summer; so that our cattle of all kinds have scarcely food to

eat. But in a year or two, we hope, by the divine blessing, to have a

considerable quantity of fresh provisions for our family.

As for manuring more land than the hired servants and great boys can

manage, it is impracticable without a few negroes. It will in no wise

answer the expence.

I am now upwards of eight hundred pounds in debt, on the Orphan-house

account. Some particular friends have been pleased to assist me. I

doubt not but our LORD will enable me to pay them, and also raise up

fresh supplies for the maintenance of my large family.

I much rejoice in the institution: it has been very beneficial, not

only to the bodies, but also to the souls of the labourers. One woman

received CHRIST very lately at _Bethesda_: and I have great reason to

believe, that three or four strangers, who came to see us, have been

effectually brought home to GOD.

Great calumnies have been spread abroad concerning our management of

the children: people shoot out their bitter arrows in _America_, as

well as in _England_. One poor man was filled with such resentment, at

the reports he had heard of our cruelty to the children, that he came

on purpose from _South-Carolina_, to take away his two boys, whom out

of compassion, I had taken into the Orphan-House: but, when he came and

saw the manner in which they were educated, he was so far from taking

his children away, that he desired to come and live at the Orphan-house

himself.

I speak not this by way of boasting, or to wipe off reproach; for I

know, let me do what I will, I shall never please some men. I thought

proper to give this short account, for the satisfaction of those who

have already contributed, and of others who may be stirred up by our

good GOD, to contribute hereafter towards carrying on this good design.

* * * * *

That the children may learn to be grateful, they frequently sing the

following hymn for their benefactors:

I.

Father of Mercies, hear our prayers,

For those that do us good;

Whose love for us a place prepares,

And gives the orphans food.

II.

Their mites, in blessings on their heads,

A thousand fold restore;

O feed their souls with living bread,

And let their cup run o’er.

III.

Thy bounty, LORD, in CHRIST built up,

Let them for ever prove:

Stedfast in faith, joyful thro’ hope,

And rooted deep in love.

IV.

For those, who kindly this support,

A better house prepare:

And when remov’d to thy bless’d courts,

O let us meet them there.

That they may always look to the rock from whence they are hewn, they

sing daily this hymn.

I.

Come let us join our GOD to bless,

And praise him evermore;

That Father of the fatherless,

That helper of the poor.

II.

Our dying parents us forsake,

His mercy takes us up,

Kindly vouchsafes his own to make,

And he becomes our hope.

III.

For us, He, in the wilderness,

A table has prepar’d;

Us, whom his love delights to bless,

His providence to guard.

IV.

Known unto him are all our wants,

And when we seek his face,

His open hand our bodies feeds,

He feeds our souls with grace.

V.

Then let us in his service spend,

What we from Him receive;

And back to Him what he shall lend,

In thanks and praises give.

That they may learn to labour truly to get their own living, they sing

as follows, before they go to work,

I.

Let us go forth, ’tis GOD’s command;

Let us make haste away,

Offer to CHRIST our hearts and hands,

We work for CHRIST to-day.

II.

When he vouchsafes our hands to use,

It makes our labour sweet.

If any now to work refuse,

Let not that sluggard eat.

III.

Who would not do what GOD ordains,

And promises to bless?

Who would not ’scape the toils and pains

Of sinful idleness?

IV.

In vain to CHRIST the slothful pray;

We have not learn’d him so.

No: for he calls himself the way,

And work’d himself below.

V.

Then let us in his footsteps tread,

And gladly act our part;

On earth employ our hands and head,

But fix on heaven our heart.

The following hymn was composed to be sung at the admission of a new

child or children.

I.

Welcome, dear brethren, whom we love;

|Bethesda| this we call.

A house of mercy may it prove

To you, to us, to all!

II.

What tho’ our parents dear are dead,

Yet our great GOD provides.

Our bodies here are cloth’d and fed;

Our souls have christian guides.

III.

The heavenly manna, day by day,

They freely do impart;

Let us not trifle time away!

But lay it in our heart.

IV.

O let the love of CHRIST constrain!

Why should we need a rod?

Few e’er such blessed means obtain

Of leading them to GOD.

Besides these hymns, they generally sing a grace before and after meat,

and are taught so to vary their exercises, that they may not be cloyed

by a too frequent repetition of the same things on the one hand, and

yet are kept in such a general method, that they may not learn to be

desultory and fickle on the other.

GOD only knows the concern that lies upon me on account of this family,

not only in respect to their bodily, but their spiritual provision.

And therefore I hope all that wish well to _Zion_, will help me with

prayers, as well as their alms, that it may grow up a holy temple

to the LORD, and be blessed; that it may rightly be stiled _Pietas

Georgiensis_, and like the _Pietas Hallensis_, or Professor _Franck_’s

Orphan-House at _Glaucha_, near _Hall_, become the joy of the whole

earth. Even so, LORD JESUS, _Amen_, and _Amen_.

_G. W._

A

CONTINUATION OF THE ACCOUNT OF

THE ORPHAN-HOUSE IN GEORGIA.

_Edinburgh, September 14, 1742._

EVER since the LORD has been pleased to put me into the ministry, it

has been my constant prayer to GOD, that I might _provide things honest

in the sight of all men_. Not one part of my outward conduct, as I know

of, hath passed unobserved and uncensured by some wicked unreasonable

men: but what seems to have given the greatest offence, and caused

the loudest outcry, has been my making public collections for an

Orphan-House in _Georgia_.

Some indeed affirm that there is no such thing. But how it could enter

into the heart of any to say so, I should not have conceived, unless

the scripture had said, _the heart of man is desperately wicked_.

Somewhat more than a twelve-month ago, I printed an account of the

situation and oeconomy of the Orphan-House, and what I was in arrears

when I left _Georgia_, _January 1741_. My chief design now, is, to

give a short account of the progress of the work since, both as to our

temporal and spiritual concerns, so far as lies in my power.

The salvation of souls is the chief thing I had in view, when GOD put

it into my heart to build this house. I would then begin with that

first.

And here I would pause a while, and acknowledge that I am much indebted

to the divine goodness, for what he has already done for many souls,

since its first institution. I must confess, to the glory of GOD, it

has far exceeded my expectations.

During the time I was among them, before my going to, and after

my return from, _Philadelphia_, _Boston_, &c. there were several

remarkable awakenings amongst the children, and others, belonging to

the house, much resembling the blessed awakening now at _Cambuslang_,

and other places in these kingdoms; as will appear from consulting

some of my latest Journals. Just before I came last away, the LORD was

much amongst us; at which time, a young man, about twenty-one years

of age, was converted, who since has been made a blessed instrument of

converting many poor negroes in _South-Carolina_. Several others also,

that came to pay us a visit at the Orphan-House, were really brought

home to GOD, and now bring forth the fruits of the spirit in their

lives and conversations. How it has been with my family since my

departure, will best appear by publishing some extracts from the

letters which have been sent me from time to time, since my departure.

_Mr. Habersham_, superintendent of the outward affairs in the

Orphan-House, and who, I am persuaded, loves the LORD JESUS in

sincerity, writes me thus:

_Bethesda, March 24, 1741._

_My dearest Friend and Brother_,

――――THE spirit of the LORD seems to be moving upon the faces of many

souls here; most, if not all the boys, seem to be under some concern;

little as well as great boys, cry mightily to JESUS the son of _David_,

to have mercy upon them. About fourteen days ago, at brother _Barber_’s

request, I spoke to the children at evening prayer. My soul at that

time was bowed down with a sense of my own, and especially of your poor

lambs deadness to GOD; but our gracious Redeemer, who is always ready

to help in time of need, was pleased to give me power to speak to their

consciences. I think I could and did justly appeal to their hearts,

that they wanted neither bodily or spiritual food: I told them, that

they, as well as myself, could not be insensible what little care was

taken of them before they came to us, and consequently how ungrateful

they were not to improve such means as they now enjoyed: I beseeched

them, by the mercies of GOD, that they would improve this their day of

salvation, that we and our benefactors might rejoice; we in the work

of our hands, they in the fruit of their bounty. An impression was made

on some; I observed them the next day retire into the woods, to sing

and pray together. Two nights afterwards, I spoke to them again, and

as I promised, so I returned them my public thanks for their little

amendment, with tears of love and joy: I felt the LORD powerfully on

my own soul, and it seemed to reach the children, and put them under

a visible concern. Ever since, brother _Barber_ has put the great boys

into two companies, and they constantly meet together every day to

sing and pray. _Saturday_, the 21st instant, the presence of the LORD

came down among the children, little and great, as they were talking

among themselves about eternity; and they cried so much to JESUS of

_Nazareth_, to have mercy upon them, that the family soon heard them.

We all went, saw, and wept over about twenty-five or thirty dear lambs,

upon their knees before GOD, some pleading the promises, and others

calling on JESUS. O how did my hard heart rejoice! Blessed be GOD, many

of them seem to retain their convictions, and all are serious. Does not

your soul leap for joy, and say, Bless the LORD, O my friends, and let

us magnify his name together! Indeed, my dear brother, all the glory

is due to him. Whilst I am writing, I blush, that I should mention any

thing about what I was only in a little measure an instrument. Methinks

I could wish to disappear, that the creature might be abased, and GOD

be all in all. I have great hopes that GOD will bring some effectually

to himself. The work seems to be more solid among them, and more the

effect of consideration, than that of last summer. I rejoice much, that

the LORD sent brother _Barber_ among us; for I have neither leisure

nor ability to speak much to the children, and he seems to delight to

watch over their souls: I trust the LORD will make him a blessing to us

all; I think it will be our own fault if he is not. One or two of the

labourers, I hope, have closed with JESUS for salvation; and one or two

more are in a fair way to do so.

Mr. _Habersham_, in another Letter,

writes thus from _Charles-Town_.

_June 11, 1741._

――――SATAN rages furiously against our Orphan-House in this province:

such lies and calumnies are raised against us, that our few dear

friends think it necessary for me to represent the present state of the

house. I have since been much in prayer, and believe GOD will direct me

how to act. Some here, since you went away, have gone great lengths in

asserting calumnies, even so as to offer to take oaths for the truth

of them. Since I came, I went to them, to enquire what foundation they

had for such reports; and it would surprise you to see their behaviour:

they are ashamed to lift up their faces. Thus shall the wicked stand

dumb at the bar of GOD. I think I can say, to the glory of GOD, that

our family never was in a better condition. The children, the _essence

of our constitution_, are well taken care of, and watched over. We

all live in love. GOD has been visibly among us, especially with the

children. _Bethesda_, as to its outward circumstances, is so much for

the better, that you would be surprised to see it. GOD enables us to

keep up much order. He likewise (blessed be his name) has given us the

appearance of a plentiful crop. The garden and plantation now afford

us many comfortable things, and in great plenty. Our stores are yet

well stocked with flour and beef, &c. Mr. _W――――_ behaves with great

integrity, and is faithful in his work. The house would be soon

finished, if we could get bricks. _J. S._ is ready to do all our

bricklayers work _gratis_. Brother _W――――_ is a great blessing to the

family. If you come by way of _Philadelphia_, pray bring some hemp and

coarse flax. He has weaved and spun a great deal for us. All the boys

now lye in the great house. They have also coats, and lye in sheets of

their own making: by this means they are kept sweet and clean. We have

a fine growing stock of cattle; and if GOD should so order it, that we

should have a plantation in _Carolina_, as I believe he will bring to

pass, we shall need but little, if any, assistance from abroad. If our

building were now done, our expences would be but trifling to what they

have been.

Mr. _Barber_ writes me thus.

_Bethesda, September 4, 1741._

_My dearly beloved Brother_,

NOT knowing but our LORD may have business for you at the northward,

and send you thither before you return to us; I have sent you a few

lines, to acquaint you with the present state of your family. Many of

us have been sick; but, blessed be GOD, our sickness has not been unto

death. O that it may be for the glory of GOD’s name! All of us are in

good health at present, except _James M――――h_, who was taken with the

flux a few days ago, and _B. ♦Habersham_, who is much troubled with

the worms. I wish I could say our souls were in as good health as our

bodies are; but you may give thanks to the LORD, that he has made your

house a house of mercy indeed to some. A few weeks ago, the LORD was

pleased effectually to call _Thomas W――――b_; his conversion was very

clear, and much to the satisfaction of some, especially to his good old

father. Mr. _K――――y_, our taylor, and his wife, have been wrought upon,

I hope savingly, since they have been here: I am not without hope that

some of the children are likewise, and that the LORD in due time will

convert more of them. I hope he is now shewing us that the work is

wholly of him; that when the day of his power, the time, the appointed

time of his love is come, we may be better prepared to give all the

glory thereof to him. As to myself, I must confess that I am a poor

worthless instrument, to be employed in the work of the LORD; but what

shall we say, if the LORD is pleased to make use of the foolish to

confound the wise? I have, blessed be GOD, had a little freedom given

me lately to speak to your family; but I want to have my heart more and

more enlarged towards them, and to speak to them more and more in the

demonstration of the Spirit, and with power. Who knows? perhaps GOD

designs you should have the honour and happiness of being the spiritual

father of many more in your family. May the LORD’s will be done!

♦ “Haversham” replaced with “Habersham”

I have also some letters of a later date, which give an account of the

continuance of the LORD’s presence amongst them.

As for the temporal affairs, blessed be GOD, considering the great

difficulties we have laboured under, they also have succeeded far

beyond expectation.

Mr. _Habersham_, in a Letter dated _March 24, 1741_,

writes thus:

AS we have got so much land cleared, I intend to try to plant it:

accordingly I have four or five hands, which, with our own houshold,

will be sufficient to plant twenty acres or upwards with potatoes and

rice for fodder next winter, having greatly suffered this, for want of

it; likewise corn and pease, and other necessaries. Our garden is in

great forwardness: we are like to have a crop of _English_ pease. GOD

visibly blesses us, so that people are amazed.

In a Letter, dated _September 1, 1741_, he writes thus to a

Gentleman in _New-England_: of which Letter I had a copy.

――――OUR affairs, blessed be GOD, have prospered far beyond our

expectation. We have seen, and do daily see, much of GOD’s fatherly

care, in providing for and protecting us; and though _we have no

visible fund_, yet we doubt not, but he that has begun, will carry on

and perfect his work against every opposition. We have been plentifully

supplied all the summer, while many about us lacked. Our building and

necessary conveniences, are now compleated. Our family now consists of

eighty-four persons, men, women, and children, and nineteen more are

employed about us, and five in the Infirmary: the latter have a doctor

and nurse, and all other necessaries found them at the Orphan-house

expence. We have fifty-eight children: thirty-two of them belong to

the colony; six to _Purisburgh_, who are, I think, as great objects of

charity as any in _Georgia_; and the rest belong to the neighbouring

provinces, who are orphans and objects of charity, except a few who

are maintained at their friends and parents charge. We have a taylor

and shoemaker: likewise two weavers; each of them have got a loom, but

we can employ but one, spinning here being extravagantly dear; though

we hope in a short time to spin as much _within ourselves_, as will

greatly assist in cloathing the family. GOD blesses our cattle; we have

upwards of an hundred head, small and great, and shall be able in a

year or two to kill a great quantity. Negroes not being allowed, and

labour among us so expensive, we can make but little improvement in

farming. This year we have planted upwards of twenty acres, and have

cleared twenty acres more for to enjoy the conveniency of the air: and,

blessed be GOD, though we have had a very dry season, yet we cannot

complain, like many others, of a bad crop. Honoured Sir, you may now

judge whether our design be drawing near a period. What I have written

is a plain impartial narrative of our affairs, which our bitterest

enemies will not pretend to gainsay. If any doubt it, I answer, as

_Philip_ did to _Nathaniel, Come and see_.

In a Letter, dated _October 2, 1741_, he writes thus:

――――MR. _Wardrop_ and I have settled, his contract being finished:

he is about some necessary jobs now, and will leave us in a few days.

Messrs. _Trip_, _Anderson_, &c. are already gone: I owe them and Mr.

_Wardrop_ about seventy or eighty pounds. We are very quiet, and live

at an easy expence. We have had no supplies since you left us, of

flesh or bread kind from abroad, except some pork from Mr. _B――――_.

No _New-York_ vessels have come to this province of late. _We live

entirely within ourselves_, except a few necessaries which we cannot

do without, that we are obliged to purchase elsewhere. Twice a day we

eat _hominy_¹ of our own raising, and at present without molasses. For

dinner, we eat beef of our own stock, and pease for bread, of all which

we have plenty, and shall have for three months to come. Our garden

is very fruitful of greens, turneps, &c. and we expect a good crop of

potatoes. In short, we have a sufficiency of wholesome food. Glory be

to GOD, we daily see our heavenly Father’s hand supplying us in this

wilderness-land. O that we were more thankful! I must have cash, not

only to pay debts, but also to buy clothing and many other necessaries;

and I believe our GOD will give it to me. He is our shepherd, therefore

shall we lack nothing. I trust he has enabled us to pray in faith,

nothing doubting but he will supply our every want. All here at present

enjoy pretty good health. How thankful ought we to be! The LORD seems

to be sending his judgments abroad upon the earth. In _Carolina_ and

_Savannah_ a murrain is among the cattle, which takes off great numbers:

ours as yet have escaped. Thanks be to GOD! Indeed we are obliged

to kill some of them for immediate supply. But what are all outward

calamities, where GOD is?

¹ _Indian_ corn boiled up thick with water.

A young Gentleman of _Boston_, having made a visit to the

Orphan-House, sent the following account of it to his father,

which many have desired may be printed, for the satisfaction

of those who have already contributed to its support.

_Bethesda, January 1, 1742._

_Honoured Sir_,

BEING sensible of the many and false accounts industriously

spread abroad concerning this house in many places, especially in

_New-England_, by those who are enemies to its Founder, and the

cause he is engaged in, which has certainly been a great hindrance to

this worthy undertaking, as it has created even in its friends some

prejudices, which has hindered their contributing with that pleasure

and freedom they otherwise would have done; and as I am now upon the

spot, I think a few moments will not be ill spent, in giving you a

particular account of its present situation, which I shall endeavour

to do in the most just and impartial manner, that you may have an

opportunity of serving the interest in which your heart is so much

engaged.

The Orphan-House is pleasantly situated, and, with the buildings

belonging to it, presents a much handsomer prospect than is given by

the draught annexed to the public accounts. The great house is now

almost quite finished, and nothing has hindered but the want of glass,

which they daily expect from _Bristol_, and some bricks that are

already at _Savannah_, and are to carry up another stack of chimnies,

which would have been done before, if a vessel that was bringing brick

and other stores, had not been taken by the _Spaniards_, which was

a great loss. It is surprizing to see in what forwardness things

are, considering what hindrances they have had, and the scarcity of

labourers in this province. They have cut a fine road to _Savannah_

of twelve miles length, through a thicket of woods; and, that it might

be passable, were obliged to make ten bridges and cross-ways; which

was done at no little charge. They have also cleared forty acres of

land, twenty of which were planted the last year, and brought them a

tolerable crop: the other twenty was for the benefit of the air. They

have also a large garden at the front of the house, brought into pretty

good order.

The family now consists of eighty persons besides labourers, who all

contradict the wicked and false accounts of their being starved and

cruelly treated, by the lively and hearty countenances they shew. I

have seldom seen such a goodly number of youths together. Twenty-three

of them are orphans; others, that have lost one of their parents;

one was born in the house; and the rest are fit objects for christian

charity. There are in all thirty-nine boys, and ♦fifteen girls. The

number was larger some time past: but several of the boys, that were

well instructed, have been put to such trades as they inclined to; and

others, who were put here for their learning, are returned to their

parents, who have handsomely paid the House for their education.

♦ “fifteeen” replaced with “fifteen”

The care of this society at present is in the hands of a young

gentleman from _London_, who manages the secular affairs thereof; and

one from _New-England_, who has the care of souls as his particular

charge. There are two school-masters, who instruct the boys in reading

and writing: and those that appear serious, and of good capacities,

are taught _Latin_, with a design of fitting them for the ministry,

if they incline to it. Two school-mistresses, that teach the girls; a

surgeon and nurse to attend the infirmary, in which many sick persons,

from divers parts, have been received, and always been cured _gratis_.

Here are also several tradesmen; a taylor, a joiner, a weaver, and a

shoemaker. The taylor has three boys to instruct in his business. It is

expected that Mr. _Whitefield_ will increase the number of craftsmen,

when he returns from _England_. The œconomy observed here is as follows:

The bell rings in the morning at sun-rise, to wake the family. When

the children arise, they sing a short hymn, and pray by themselves:

then they go down and wash; and by the time they have done that, the

bell calls to public worship, when a portion of scripture is read and

expounded, a psalm sung, and the exercise begun and ended with prayer.

Then they breakfast, and afterwards go some to their trades, and the

rest to their prayers and schools. At noon, they all dine in the same

room, and have comfortable and wholesome diet provided. A hymn is sung

before and after dinner: then, in about half an hour, to school again;

and between whiles find time enough for recreation. A little after

sun-set the bell calls to public duty again, which is performed in the

same manner as in the morning. After that they sup, and are attended

to bed by one of their masters, who then pray with them, as they often

do privately. On the sabbath-day they all dine on cold meat provided

the day before, that none may be kept from public worship, which is

attended four times a day in summer, and three in the winter. The

children are kept to reading between whiles. Many have reported,

that the place is very unhealthy: which I believe is quite otherwise,

considering it is a new settlement: a remarkable proof of which is,

that not one have died out of the family, (into which many sick and

almost starved children have been received, who have in a short time

recovered) and but three or four out of the hospital, where many

miserable objects have been taken in. I believe many, who now think the

erecting an Orphan-house in that colony a mad scheme, would alter their

sentiments were they here. Innumerable difficulties have certainly been

overcome; but their affairs now look with a pleasant aspect. If the

colony is allowed negroes, as it is thought it must and will be, they

can, with about twenty negroes to manure the plantation, which contains

five hundred acres of land, raise much more provision than a larger

family than this can expend, having already a fine live stock, which

is daily increasing; so that in a few years, it is to be hoped, they

will be able to support themselves. As to the state of religion here,

particularly among the children, the power of GOD has, at times, been

visible among them; and many of them have been brought under conviction,

which seems lasting in some of the boys, and several of the girls: but

most of the grown folks appear to be truly converted; and many, who

have come as visitors, have been met with by the sovereign grace of GOD,

and not sent empty away: may GOD grant I may make one of that number!

Upon the whole, I think the institution to be of GOD: therefore it doth

and will prosper.

Since this came to my hand, I have received more letters from _Georgia_,

dated in _May_ and _June_ last, which also give me an account of the

continuation of GOD’s goodness to my dear family.

The Reverend Dr. _Colman_, in a letter he sent to a minister near

_Glasgow_, part of which I find printed in a pamphlet entituled, _The

State of Religion in New-England_, writes thus:

“Mr. _Whitefield_ visited us in the right time, and found large

contributions here: I doubt not but he will faithfully apply what he

collected for his Orphan-house: but I have said to him, It will appear

to me a greater wonder, if his faith is answered in that foundation,

than that of Monsieur _Franck_’s, at _Hall_, in _Prussia_, was: the one

being in the midst of _Europe_, the other on the confines of _America_.

But the order and piety of the house is admirable, and so the progress

of the settlement, alone as it is in the world, by the report of all

that have visited it: but how it can subsist and flourish, and answer

the Founder’s end, is the enquiry here, and will be a marvel in the

providence of GOD, if it do so.”

The Reader may see, by this, the Doctor’s opinion of the Orphan-house,

and the testimony given concerning it by persons who have visited

it, and who therefore cannot be unacquainted with its situation. They

profess, “The order of the house is admirable, and so the progress of

the settlement, alone as it is in the world.” How it can subsist and

flourish for the future, I am not solicitous about: GOD can help us in

_Georgia_, as well as he helped Professor _Franck_ in _Germany_. _The

earth is the LORD’s, and the fulness thereof_. I acknowledge him to

be the founder of that house: he put it into my heart to build it: it

has in a great measure already answered the end of its institution,

and I am persuaded will do so more and more. The greatest outward

difficulties, I humbly hope, are now surmounted. The workmen are all

discharged, having fulfilled their contract, and carried on the work so

far as to make every part of the house habitable. Our stock of cattle

is pretty considerable, and appear to be in a flourishing condition.

And, when once I am clear from all arrears, the Orphan-house will

be supported at a very easy expence. The last parliament resolved to

support the colony of _Georgia_: they have altered the constitution in

two material points; they have allowed the importation of rum, and free

titles to the lands. And if they should see good hereafter to grant a

limited use of negroes, it must certainly, in all outward appearance,

be as flourishing a colony as _South-Carolina_. Not that we are without

hopes, as Mr. _Habersham_ writes me word in his last letter, of making

a tolerable shift with white servants: the _Saltzburghers_ do so

already. There is a fresh body of them lately gone over, and some

fresh troops to guard the frontiers of the colony. Not that I put any

confidence in man, knowing that _the race is not to the swift, nor the

battle to the strong_, but Providence ruleth all things: but, at the

same time, I would act with the greatest caution and circumspection,

and not tempt GOD by presuming on him without a cause. His having

helped me and mine so often, encourages me to trust him again. He has

put it into the hearts of some dear friends to give Mr. _Habersham_

credit for cash during my absence; and his Excellency General

_Oglethorpe_ has been very friendly, having lent Mr. _Habersham_ fifty

pounds, and given the orphans nine barrels of flour: _the LORD return

him, and their other benefactors, ten thousand fold into their bosom_!

But all this while, some will say, you give us no account of your

collections in _Scotland_ and elsewhere for near this year and an half.

I will now do that to the best of my power, and likewise add an account

of my disbursements; I say, _my disbursements_: for, having had no

particular account of what Mr. _Habersham_ has expended and borrowed

since I have been from _Georgia_, I cannot possibly give an exact

account of the whole; but I shall do it, GOD willing, immediately after

my arrival at the Orphan-house, beginning where the former account

left off. From that it appears, I was then upwards of eight hundred

pounds upon arrears. Since that I have been absent near two years:

and considering a family of eighty persons, or upwards, have been

maintained, an infirmary kept up, the expence of further work done to

the house, &c. it will not appear unreasonable that I should be still

upwards of six hundred pounds on arrears; as I judge I am, from Mr.

_Habersham_’s general intimations of cash he had borrowed in _America_,

and what I have still to pay in _England_. But this will appear clear

in the next account. In the mean while, the following accounts, I

believe, will be satisfying to all the contributors¹: as for others,

I do not think myself obliged to give them any account at all, any

further than that I am commanded to _provide things honest in the sight

of all men_. Neither do I believe, that this, or any account I can

give, will satisfy captious men that are resolved to find fault: our

Saviour himself could not please such. And if even good men can be

so far prejudiced as to say, “The late glorious work at _Cambuslang_,

is all delusion, and a work of the devil,” I do not wonder if some of

his professed children speak all manner of evil of this undertaking:

neither should I wonder after this, if they should affirm there was no

such thing as an Orphan-house in being, though it was built but a few

miles off them.

¹ The accounts of particular receipts and disbursements are

omitted, by reason of their vast length; and likewise, as

the public have already examined them, and received full

satisfaction.

As for the aspersions that have been cast upon me, as though I

collected money to enrich myself, it gives me little or no concern;

the apostle _Paul_ was branded as one that made a gain of people;

but GOD knows the heart: at the day of judgment I will prove those

persons liars. Professor _Franck_ met with unspeakably more contempt

and calumny, whilst he was building the Orphan-house in _Germany_:

he began very low, and left behind him an Orphan-house which contains

now, if I mistake not, two or three thousand students, notwithstanding

the erecting it, was attended with as many improbabilities as this

in _Georgia_: he has been dead about fourteen or sixteen years. His

son now succeeds him in the care of the Orphan-house: I have had the

pleasure of corresponding with him. An account of this Orphan-house

was printed in his life-time, and it has been very strengthening and

beneficial to my soul.

If any, by reading this, shall be inclined to contribute any thing,

either in money or goods, I trust GOD will give me grace to apply it

faithfully.

I am not ashamed to beg for GOD on this occasion; because my going to

_Georgia_, and erecting the Orphan-house, was one great means in his

hand, of bringing me out to preach the everlasting gospel in so many

places, and to many thousands of poor perishing souls, who I doubt not

(be it spoken with all humility) will evidence my commission thereto,

by being my joy and crown of rejoicing in the last day. Blessed be

his holy name, he has not left himself, nor me his servant, without

witnesses of this sort in _Scotland_! Many, I trust, since this time

twelvemonth, have been made to _taste that the LORD is gracious_, and

have in an effectual manner _felt the powers of the world to come_:

such in particular, I trust, will lift up holy hands in prayer for me,

and for the prosperity of the Orphan-house, that the enemies of our

holy religion may never have cause to triumph over its ruins, saying,

_There, there, so would we have it_. I look upon the Orphan-house as

a great part of my charge; a family given me by GOD, to be supported

and taken care of, for himself. Its very beginnings are not small; its

latter end, I believe, will greatly increase. He that believeth, should

not make haste to contemn the undertaking, or my conduct in carrying

it on, seeing it has already evidently appeared to be of GOD, by the

countenance and success he has given to both. And since the LORD, by

his providence, has connected the care of this family with my preaching

the gospel, by making it a means of first bringing me out, and ever

since has been pleased to continue the care of it upon me; I think

myself bound in duty, to recommend it in the strongest manner to all

people amongst whom I am called to preach the kingdom of GOD. Neither

do I think myself justly blameable for running so much in arrears on

its account, since the LORD, in all places where he has been pleased to

send me, has inclined the hearts of people to be ready to distribute,

and willing to communicate on this occasion: and, I doubt not, will

yet dispose the hearts of his people here and elsewhere, to be my

farther assistants by their charitable contributions, seeing I am

so necessarily engaged in the affair. _He that giveth to these_ poor

orphans, _lendeth to the_ LORD; and look, _Whatsoever he layeth out,

it shall be repaid him again_.

Those who, notwithstanding what has been said, still continue in

suspense, I would entreat them at least to pray for me, that in this,

and all my undertakings for the church of CHRIST, I may go on with an

even, humble, resigned, chearful mind, and single eye to GOD’s glory;

and then, I doubt not but they will see a happy issue of this work, and

future ages have reason to bless GOD, for ever putting it into my heart

to build an Orphan-house in _Georgia_.

_September 22, 1742._

Since the writing of this, I have heard of the _Spaniards_ making a

descent upon _Georgia_. I cannot say the news of it damped me at all;

because, I humbly hope, the LORD will not give that colony over as a

prey into the enemy’s hand. The place where they landed, is about one

hundred miles to the southward of the Orphan-house: and, supposing

it should be taken, I do not repent the erecting it, because the

♦advantages that have flowed already from it, as appears from my

accounts, have abundantly answered the pains and expence it has cost.

What is due upon arrears, as it has been already laid out, and is a

debt contracted for GOD, I doubt not but he will incline the hearts of

his servants to help me by their contributions to discharge it. At the

same time, I am not without expectations, that this very attack of the

_Spaniards_ will be over-ruled for the good of the Orphan-house, and

be made a means of freeing the colony from their future insults: for

as _Georgia_ is a frontier colony, and stands as a barrier to all the

other _English_ provinces, it is reasonable to believe, they will all

unite in its defence and protection. But my trust is in the LORD; and,

through the mercies of the Most High, I humbly hope this undertaking

will not sink, but become more and more beneficial to _Georgia_ and the

neighbouring provinces day by day. _Let all that love the_ LORD JESUS

_say_, Amen!

♦ “advanvantages” replaced with “advantages”

_September 27, 1742._

Since the foregoing papers have been in the press, I have received a

letter from Mr. _Habersham_, superintendant of the Orphan-house affairs,

in which he writes as follows:

_Savannah, July 14, 1742._

_My dearest Brother and Friend_,

ABOUT four days ago I wrote you very fully in relation to our present

state and circumstances, from Mr. _John Bryan_’s. I hope our dear

family are well there. When my last comes to hand, you will find we

removed there for fear of the _Spaniards_, who came in upon _Georgia_

like a flood. I hope the General will yet stand his ground, though

the enemy is so numerous. I hear he destroyed and took one hundred and

seventy of the enemy last _Thursday_. GOD only knows what he is about

to do with us. Brother _Grant_ and I are here, to take care of our

house and goods. I hope GOD will direct us in our distress. Surely you

will now, if possible, come over. I believe the bearer is gone; I must

have done. Farewel, Farewel. Brother _Grant_ gives his love. I must

conclude by broken lines.

Yours,

_J. H._

P. S. Absolute hurry and necessity obliges me to write thus.

This letter gave me much comfort, as it brought me the welcome news

that my dear family was safe. This Mr. _Bryan_ was converted at the

Orphan-house, and is a wealthy planter in _South-Carolina_. I admire

the providence of GOD, in raising him up to take care of the little

lambs in this time of their distress. I hope ere now they are returned

to their _Bethesda_ in peace.

Blessed be GOD I have not been disappointed of my hope. For since my

return to _London_, I have received the following letters, which give

a more particular account both of their tryal and deliverance, and for

which I desire to praise our great and gracious GOD.

From Mr. _Habersham_, at Mr. _Jonathan Bryan_’s Plantation

in _South-Carolina, July 11, 1742_.

_My dearest Friend and Brother_,

GOD’s ways are in the deep; the LORD only knows what he is about to do

with your dear family. Here at Mr. _Bull_’s and at Mr. _Hugh Bryan_’s

they sojourn at present, and all, blessed be our gracious JESUS, in

pretty good bodily health. Distress from the hands of the _Spaniards_

(under GOD) seems to be coming upon poor _Georgia_, and perhaps upon

this colony also. Our afflictions have been heavy: the LORD only

enabled us to bear up under them; but I really believe we have tasted

but the first fruits of our trials. Was it not for a persuasion that

GOD can, yea, will help us, we must sink under a prospect of impending

difficulties. About the 25th of last month several _Spanish_ galleys

came into _Cumberland_ sound, a little to the South of St. _Simon_’s,

where the General’s forces are encamped. The General himself in a deal

cutter, accompanied with two boats, was attacked by them, and had a

very wonderful escape. The gallies went off as though they would go

to _Augustine_; but a day or two after returned, attended with several

schooners, sloops, and ships of force to St. _Simon_’s. Several days

they lay within sight of the General’s camp. When we heard this, we

kept a day of fasting, prayer, and humiliation, to ask direction of our

great shepherd what we should do. As the _Spanish_ fleet had then made

no inroad upon the General, we concluded to _stand still_ and wait upon

GOD. The 5th instant the _Spanish_ fleet run into St. _Simon_’s _Sound_,

up the river that leads to _Frederica_. The fleet, I hear, consisted of

thirty-five or thirty-seven vessels; and notwithstanding the General

fired upon them from his battery, and two privateers, and other vessels

did the same, they passed without seeming to regard them, and landed

a great number of people at _Gascoign’s Bluff_ on St. _Simon_’s. The

General seeing himself encompassed about with enemies, ordered several

sloops, _New-Yorkers_, laden with provision to be sunk; his privateer

sloop was burnt, and Captain _Thomson_ and the ♦schooner made the

best of their way to the North. The General is now surrounded by the

_Spaniards_ upon an island, without having one vessel of any bigness to

carry him and his army off. He retreated from St. _Simon_’s (burnt all

the hutts, houses, &c. there) to _Frederica_, and gave leave for the

women and children, and I think all except his fighting people, to make

their escape.

♦ “scooner” replaced with “schooner”

The 17th instant several boats full of people passed by our house, and

informed us of the above, and that it was thought the General’s army

would be entirely cut off, unless great assistance was immediately

sent them, which it is likely could not be done soon enough. We all

met together, and prayed to our dear Father, and afterward desired

every one to speak their mind freely, what was necessary to be done

in this emergency. We considered it would be impossible to move so

many children, weak women, and babes in their arms away upon a sudden

approach of the enemy; that we were so locked in, that we could not

get through the _Narrows_ with our boats but four hours in twenty-four,

and unanimously agreed to move them away directly. But we had one great

objection to get over, the glory of GOD; we thought the providence

of GOD plainly pointed out our removal; and if the _Spaniards_ should

be permitted to take and burn all before them, we should be accessary

to the death of eighty-five poor creatures, and likewise bring a

reproach upon religion, through our disregard of using means for our

preservation. Our friends thought things might not be _so bad_ as

reported, and concluded to stay that evening at the Orphan-house, while

I should go to _Savannah_ to ask the advice of friends, and likewise be

better informed about it. Accordingly I went about nine that evening,

and returned at three in the morning. The news I had confirmed from the

persons who had fled from _Frederica_; and our friends at _Savannah_

advised us to move. Mr. _Jones_ offered to lend me any assistance to

do it. The next morning, as delays might be dangerous, we took as many

goods out of the house as the boats would conveniently carry with the

people. We had none about us but Mr. _K――――_’s and _G――――_’s family,

and two sick men in the infirmary, and in all made about eighty-five or

eighty-six persons. Then we had another difficulty to grapple with: we

knew not where to go. If we went to _Ebenezer_, we had no opportunity

of providing so large a body of people with provisions, and might be

in as much danger there as at _Bethesda_. If we went to _Carolina_, we

considered that it was there, in all probability, the enemy wanted to

be, and were destroying _Georgia_ in order to get there with the more

safety. But believing we should be better able to make our retreat to

the Northward from _Carolina_, if necessity should oblige us, and also

should be better able to supply the family with victuals, we came here

last night about twelve o’clock, and were received kindly by our dear

friends, who think we have done right in moving.

Mr. _Barber_ who superintends the spiritual affairs of the family, in

a letter dated near the same time writes,――“That as they were on their

passage, they heard guns firing all round them, which occasioned them

to think they were in the midst of their enemies.――This brought them

into straits, not knowing which way to take to avoid falling into

their hands.――But the LORD giving them to strengthen themselves in him,

they ventured on, and got safe to the shore; where they were informed,

that the guns they had heard, where in _Carolina_, firing to alarm

the province of the danger they apprehended they were in from the

_Spaniards_. What those guns were that they heard firing from other

quarters they did not know; most probably their enemies, whom the LORD

directed them to shun by taking the way they did.”

Mr. _Habersham_, again says,――How it is with _Georgia_, I have not

heard these three days; but as we left a great quantity of goods at the

Orphan-house, and fearing that it might be plundered, brother _Grant_

and I, with four hands, are in a few minutes to go there. I think, as

we have moved away the helpless people, if the enemy should come, we

can the better make our escape. O my brother, I hope you will not blame

us.――A sense of so many souls being liable to be destroyed, was very

burdensome, and called for speedy acting. I know not whether I shall

be ever able to write to you again. Perhaps some friends that I leave

behind me here may, and then they will tell you of all our difficulties.

It is hard to leave my dear friends and children, my wife and little

babe; but duty obliges me to go; I have no time to say any more; what

I have written has been in great hurry. Pray pardon my abruptness. If

I never see you, or write more, let me assure _you of my love_. I hope

I need not now use any arguments to persuade you to come over. Farewel,

farewel, farewel.

Yours, for ever,

_James Habersham_.

’Tis past one in the morning.

From Mr. _Habersham_, at Mr. _Bull_’s plantation in

_South-Carolina_, _July 27, 1742_.

_My dear Friend and Brother_,

I WROTE you the 4th, 11th, and 14th instant. Doubtless the contents of

my letters will give you some concern, and will be a means of hastening

you over to us. I hope you will find us at our desired habitation.

Hitherto the LORD seems to be on our side, and fights our battles. News

is lately come from the General, that the _Spaniards_ have moved off in

great confusion; but it is not sufficiently confirmed; when it is, we

purpose moving to _Bethesda_. In mine of the 11th instant, I informed

you, according to my knowledge of the state of your family, and the

colony till that time. I told you brother _Grant_ and self were just

returning to _Georgia_. We soon got there, and found our goods and

house safe. _John Goldwire_, I, and a boy, staid at _Bethesda_ while

brother _Grant_ went to _Carolina_, and returned with two boats. In the

mean time we heard the General had engaged twice with a party of the

_Spaniards_, and killed and taken one hundred and fifty of them, and

that the enemy was so intimidated, and the General’s army so encouraged,

that there was great expectations that the _Spaniards_ would soon be

drove off the island. GOD was pleased at this time to bring me very low

by bodily illness, so that I was almost incapable of making any escape,

if the enemy had been suffered to come upon us, having a hundred miles

to ride through bad swamps, to my friends in _Carolina_. Likewise there

was no one there, nor at _Savannah_, to give me any relief.

The 20th instant, having left three people at _Bethesda_, and our

family wanting necessaries at _Carolina_, brother _Grant_ and I

returned with most of our goods. When we now left _Bethesda_, we were

not very apprehensive of any danger of staying ourselves, or leaving

the goods there; but as I was obliged to seek for some assistance, and

our dear people wanted things we had there, we thought it was but a

very little more trouble to load the boats. I have many times intended

to write to you since I came here, but was not able conveniently till

to day, but I bless GOD I feel myself much better in health. As far

as I can learn, the General has behaved himself exceeding well, and

the LORD has wonderfully ordered things for him, contrary, I believe,

to his own and others expectations. His clemency to the _Spanish_

prisoners, his confidence, prudence, and courage throughout the whole

affair is so conspicuous, that his greatest enemies cannot impeach his

conduct. I don’t as yet hear, that he has lost (except by accident)

above three or four men. Indeed the hand of GOD has been evidently

against the boasting enemy. Some say near fifty vessels set out at

first to invade us, but in their passage, which is usually run in a

week or ten days, they were fifty days, and by some means fifteen of

them were separated from the rest, and did not come up to them at St.

_Simon_’s. They first proposed to land in _Carolina_, and cause an

insurrection among the negroes; to that end they brought a number of

negroes, to head and persuade our negroes (I suppose) to revolt. But

being so long on their passage, they wanted water, and were obliged to

put in at St. _Simon_’s. In their council of war there, they said they

would soon cut off the General and his few men, and did not doubt but

to settle and regain King _Philip_’s dominions, yea, even as far as

the Capes of _Virginia_. I should have wished you had been present

when we consulted about fleeing for our lives; it would have been great

satisfaction to us all; but I am of opinion, you would not have staid

with the great troop of little ones, under the apprehension of so much

danger. I have met with none but what have approved of what we did.

Every one, I believe, are willing to contract expences.――I hope, nay

I am assured, that all things shall work together for good; and I

am of opinion, we shall all have reason to bless GOD for every, yea,

especially for his late awful dispensation.――The deliverances we have

had are many and wonderful, and he that has done much can do more. In

regard to the _Spaniards_, they came like a flood, but the LORD can

save by few as well as by many.

From Mr. _Habersham_.

_Bethesda, August, 19, 1742._

_My dearest Friend and Brother_,

I HOPE ere this reaches you, you have received mine of the 4th, 11th,

14th, and 27th of _July_ last, and that you see your way clear to come

to us. Blessed be GOD we have reason to conclude the _Spaniards_ have

entirely left the colony, and we are now very comfortably settled again.

The deliverance the LORD has wrought for us by the General, I think

is the most remarkable I ever heard or read of, except some instances

recorded in the Old Testament. It is so manifest, that “Surely GOD has

fought our battles,” is in the mouth of every one, whatever may be in

their hearts. I cannot now mention particulars, being much streightened

for time; at _Savannah_ the poor people are almost all sick; four have

been cut off. At _Frederica_ likewise, and at Mr. _Bryan_’s, and other

neighbours, they are in the same condition. We have also many down.

GOD has been chastising us with whips, but now seems to be scourging us

with scorpions. O that the goodness and patience of GOD may lead us to

repentance! We have a good crop on the ground, and have none to gather

it in but the few boys. Brother _Hunter_ has his hands full, and is

chiefly at _Savannah_. It is but little we buy abroad.――We hunt and

kill our own stock, and have potatoes and corn enough of our own. I am

but poorly, as is dear brother _Barber_, who is singularly useful at

this trying time.――What should I have done without him? I have much to

say to you. Indeed I hope you are now in your passage to us. We cannot

but expect you. _B. Grant_ hurries me to conclude. Please to give my

tender love to your wife, and all with you, and believe me to be

Your affectionate servant in our LORD,

_J. Habersham_.

I.

How are thy servants bless’d, O LORD!

How sure is their defence!

Eternal wisdom is their guard,

Their help Omnipotence.

II.

In all their various griefs, O LORD!

Thy mercy sets them free,

While in the confidence of prayer

Their souls lay hold on thee.

III.

In midst of dangers, fears and deaths

Thy goodness we’ll adore,

And praise thee for thy mercies past,

And humbly hope for more.

_January, 14, 1743._

SINCE the foregoing papers were sent to the press, I have received

letters from Mr. _B――――r_ and Mr. _H――――m_, the persons who superintend

the spiritual and temporal affairs of the Orphan-house, dated in

_October_ last; by which I am informed that all was well, and that the

family was mercifully supplied with things convenient for them. I don’t

hear that any of the family have been taken off by the late sickness;

but am informed of the death of one Mrs. _Dudding_, (a person converted

at the Orphan-house some time ago): she went with the family into

_Carolina_, where she staid after they returned, and there died

triumphantly.

Mr. _Bolzius_, one of the _Saltzburghers_ ministers, writes to me thus,

_Ebenezer_ in _Georgia_, _September 22, 1742_.

_Reverend and dear Sir_,

IT was with great satisfaction that I received the favour of your

letter, dated _M――――_ the 5th of _October_ last, in which you

acquainted me with the joyful news, that the LORD has been pleased to

bless your kind endeavours of collecting twenty pounds for our poor

people, on which our mill, and especially our Orphan-house had its

share according to your intention and order. This great blessing is

delivered into my hand by Mr. _H――――m_, our dear friend and favourer,

and is laid out in such a manner, that I hope, to have obtained the

end, at which you aim in all your actions, and in this act of love too,

_viz._ to promote the great giver’s, our heavenly father’s glory and

our people’s welfare. May it please an almighty and merciful GOD to

reward you and all our benefactors many-fold for this and many more

testimonies of your and their real favours, and let descend upon your

worthy person and holy ministry as many blessings to your spiritual and

temporal welfare, as prayers and hearty wishes do ascend to the throne

of grace from our hearts and lips in publick and private.

GOD has been pleased to visit me and my fellow-labourer with dangerous

sickness, but has graciously restored our health for our better being

prepared to the heavenly and blessed regions, and for being in some

measure, by the operation of the Holy Ghost, useful to shew our hearers

the way through CHRIST to the Father, and their eternal happiness. Many

in our congregation have been dangerously sick, and some died in peace;

the rest begin to recover by degrees. Good Dr. _Hunter_¹ has been

mighty useful and assistive to the inhabitants of _Savannah_ in their

long and dangerous sicknesses; and GOD has blessed his cures with very

good effects; and I am in hopes some people there will begin to be

sensible of the many blessings that flow from _Bethesda_ upon them,

and praise with us the LORD for his great kindness and mercy in having

raised this house of mercy to many grown people’s and children’s

spiritual and temporal welfare. If GOD should give me the pleasure of

seeing you here again, and being edify’d by your conversation, I would

humbly thank him for it; but if he is pleased to carry either of us

from this to a better world, then we will see not only one another

happily, but our glorious Redeemer also face to face for ever, to his

infinite praise and our eternal happiness, at which my brother _Gronau_,

myself, our families, and several of our congregation aim by all means

and strength, which GOD gives us from the merits of his beloved son,

our dear Saviour. To his infinite mercy and gracious conduct I commit

you, and me with our people, Orphan-house, my fellow-labourer Mr.

_Gronau_, and our families, who all salute you very heartily, to the

continuance of your favour and kind remembrance before GOD and men,

remaining sincerely,

Reverend and dear Sir, your unworthy brother,

and humble servant in CHRIST,

_John Martin Bolzius_.

¹ The Surgeon belonging to the Orphan-house.

Continuation of the ACCOUNT and

PROGRESS, &c. of the ORPHAN-HOUSE.

_Bethesda, March 21, 1746._

_Sir_,

SOME months have I been here, and now think it high time, according

to my promise, to send you as explicit an account, as I well can, of

the _progress_, and _present situation_ of the Orphan-house. Some have

thought, that the erecting such a building was only the produce of

my own brain; but they are much mistaken. It was first proposed to

me by my dear friend the reverend Mr. _Charles Wesley_, who, with his

excellency General ♦_Oglethorpe_, had concerted a scheme for carrying

on such a design, before I had any thoughts of going abroad myself.

It was natural to think, that as the government intended this province

for the refuge and support of many of our poor countrymen, that numbers

of such adventurers must necessarily be taken off, by being exposed to

the hardships which unavoidably attend a new settlement. I thought it

therefore a noble design in general, to erect a house for fatherless

children. And believing such a provision for orphans would be some

inducement with many to come over, I fell in with the design, when

mentioned to me by my friend, and was resolved, in the strength of

GOD, to prosecute it with all my might. This was mentioned to the

honourable the trustees. They took it kindly at my hands; and as I

then began to be pretty popular at _Bristol_, and elsewhere, they wrote

to the _Bishop_ of _Bath_ and _Wells_, for leave for me to preach a

charity-sermon on this occasion in the abbey-church. This was granted,

and I accordingly began immediately to compose a suitable discourse:

but knowing my first stay at _Georgia_ would be but short, on account

of my returning again to take priests orders, I thought it most prudent,

first to go and see for myself, and defer prosecuting the scheme till

I came home: because I could then be better able to judge, whether the

scheme was practicable, and consequently could be able to recommend it

with the greater earnestness. When I came to _Georgia_, I found many

poor orphans, who though taken notice of by the honourable trustees,

yet through the neglect of persons that acted under them, were in

miserable circumstances. For want of a house to breed them up in,

the poor little ones were tabled out here and there, and besides the

hurt they received by bad examples, forgot at home what they learnt at

school. Others were at hard services, and likely to have no education

at all. Upon seeing this, and finding that his majesty and parliament

had the interest of this colony much at heart, I thought I could not

better shew my regard to GOD and my country, than by getting a house

and land for these children, where they might learn to labour, read,

and write, and at the same time be brought up in the nurture and

admonition of the LORD. Accordingly, at my return to _England_ in the

year 1738, to take priest orders, I applied to the honourable society

for a grant of five-hundred acres of land, and laid myself under an

obligation to build a house upon it, and to receive from time to time,

as many orphans as the land and stock would maintain. As I had always

acted like a clergyman of the church of _England_, having preached in

many of the _London_ churches, and as I had but a few months before

collected near a thousand pounds _Sterling_, for the children belonging

to the charity-schools in _London_ and _Westminster_; it was natural

to think, that I might now have the use at least of some of these

churches to preach in, for the orphans hereafter more immediately to

be committed to my care. But by the time I had taken priests orders,

the spirit of the clergy began to be much imbittered. Churches were

gradually denied to me. And I must let this good design drop, and

thousands (I might add ten thousands) go without hearing the word of

GOD, or preach in the fields. Indeed two churches, one in _London_

(_Spittle-fields_) and one in _Bristol_ (St. _Philip_’s and _Jacob_)

were lent me upon this occasion; but those were all. However, GOD

kept me from being discouraged. I collected for the Orphan-house in

_Moorfields_, two and fifty pounds one sabbath-day morning; twenty-two

pounds of which was in copper. It would have rejoiced your heart to see

the people give; they offered willingly, and took more pains to come

through the crowd and put their contributions into my hat, than some

would to have gotten them. Thousands of prayers were put up with the

alms that were given, and I trust both went up as a memorial before

GOD. In the afternoon I collected again at _Kennington-Common_, and

continued to do so at most of the places where I preached. Besides

this, two or three of the _Bishops_, and several persons of distinction

contributed; till at length, having about a thousand and ten pounds,

I gave over collecting, and went with what I had to _Georgia_. At that

time multitudes offered to accompany me; but I chose to take over only

a surgeon, and a few more of both sexes, that I thought would be useful

in carrying on my design. These chearfully embarked with me, desiring

nothing for their pains, but food and raiment. My dear fellow-traveller,

_William Seward_, Esq. also joined with them, and was particularly

useful to me on this occasion. Our first voyage was to _Philadelphia_,

where I was willing to go for the sake of laying in provision. Having

a Captain of a ship with me, who had been my spiritual child, by his

advice, I laid out in _London_ a good part of the thousand pounds for

goods; and by his care and that of my other fellow-travellers, without

any trouble to myself, got as much by them at _Philadelphia_ as nearly

defrayed the family’s expence of coming over. Here GOD blessed my

ministry daily, and begun that work in _Philadelphia_, which, I am

persuaded, will be remembered through the ages of eternity. _January_

following, 1739, I met my family at _Georgia_, and being unwilling to

lose any time, I hired a large house, and took in all the Orphans I

could find in the colony. A great many also of the town’s children

came to school _gratis_, and many poor people who could not maintain

their children, upon application, had leave given them to send their

little ones for a month or two, or more, as they could spare them, till

at length my family consisted of between sixty and seventy. Most of

the orphans were in poor case; and three or four almost eaten up with

lice. I likewise erected an _Infirmary_, in which many sick people were

cured and taken care of _gratis_. I have now by me a list of upwards

of a hundred and thirty patients, who were under the Surgeon’s hands,

exclusive of my own private family. This Surgeon I furnished with all

proper drugs and utensils, which put me to no small expence; and this

was still increased by clearing land, buying stock, and building a

large dwelling-house, sixty-feet by forty, and out-houses, commodious

for a large family to live in. Sometimes (labourers and all) I have

had a hundred and twenty to provide for daily. My friends, as well as

myself, seemed to have particular courage and faith given us for the

season; and we went on chearfully, believing that He for whose sake we

began, would enable us to finish this good work. About _March_ I began

the great house, having only about one hundred and fifty pounds in cash.

I called it _Bethesda_, because I hoped it would be a house of mercy to

many souls. Blessed be GOD, we have not been disappointed of our hope;

it has proved a house of mercy indeed to many. Several of our labourers,

as well as visitors, have (in a judgment of charity) been born of GOD

here, and given evident proofs of it, by bringing forth the fruits of

the spirit. Many boys have been put out to trades, and many girls put

out to service. I had pleasure the other day, of seeing three boys

work at the house in which they were bred, one of them out of his time,

a journeyman, and the others serving under their masters. One that I

brought from _New-England_ is handsomely settled in _Carolina_, and

another from _Philadelphia_ is married, and lives very comfortably at

_Savannah_. How so large a family has been supported in such a colony,

without any visible fund, is wonderful! I am surprized when I look back,

and see, how for these six years last past, GOD has spread a table in

the wilderness for so many persons. Were all the particular providences

that have attended this work recorded, perhaps they would be found

not inferior to those mentioned by Professor _Franck_, in his _Pietas

Hallensis_, whose memory is very precious to me, and whose example has

a thousand times been blessed to strengthen and encourage me in the

carrying on this enterprize. My being detained so long in _England_,

has been a little detrimental to me, my friends not knowing so well

how to act, because they expected to see me daily. And I cannot yet say

that I have surmounted the first year’s expence, which indeed was very

great, and greater no doubt than it would be now, after my friends have

had so many years experience in the colony. However, I doubt not, but

by the blessing of GOD, in a short time to pay off my arrears, and then

the family will be maintained at a small expence. My standing annual

charges are now but trifling to what they have been; and my friends

have raised an annual subscription sufficient for discharging it, till

the family may be able to provide for itself. This, GOD willing, I hope

will be, in a good measure, speedily effected. We have lately begun to

use the plow; and next year I hope to have many acres of good oats and

barley. We have near twenty sheep and lambs, fifty head of cattle, and

seven horses. We hope to kill a thousand weight of pork this season.

Our garden, which is very beautiful, furnishes us with all sorts of

greens, &c. We have plenty of milk, eggs, poultry, and make a good deal

of butter weekly. A great quantity of wool and cotton has been given

me, and we hope to have sufficient spun and wove for the next winter’s

cloathing. If the vines hit, we may expect two or three hogsheads of

wine out of the vineyard. The family now consists of twenty-six persons.

Two of the orphan boys are blind, one is little better than an idiot.

But notwithstanding, they are useful in the family, one in the field,

and the other in the kitchen. I have two women to take care of the

houshold work, and three men and two boys employed about the plantation

and cattle. A sett of _Dutch_ servants has been lately sent over: the

magistrates were pleased to give me two; and I took in a poor old widow,

aged near seventy, whom no body else cared to have. A valuable young

man from _New-England_ is my school-master, and in my absence performs

duty in the family. Sabbath-days the grown people attend public worship

at _Savannah_, or at _White-bluff_, a village near _Bethesda_, where

a _Dutch_ minister officiates. My dear friends who have hitherto

been my assistants, being married and having three or four children,

thought it best, as most suitable to the institution, to remove: GOD

has mercifully provided for them, and they are comfortably settled

at _Savannah_ and elsewhere: we frequently write to and hear from one

another. I need not trouble you with the order of our family. It is

pretty near the same as usual, and I do not think to make any material

alteration for some time. Many have applied to me to take in their

children as boarders, and erect a public school: but I have not yet

determined. It is certain such a school would be exceedingly useful in

this part of the world, if there should be a peace, not only for these

northern parts of the colony, but also for the more southern parts of

_Carolina_, _Purisburgh_, and _Frederica_, where are many fine youths.

I have been prevailed on to take one from _Frederica_, and another

from _Purisburgh_, and it may be shall admit more. For the present,

considering the situation of affairs, I think it most prudent to go

on making what improvements I can on the plantation, and shall bring

a tutor with me from the northward in the fall, to teach a few youths

the languages, and enlarge the family, when affairs are more settled.

The house is a noble commodious building, and every thing well adapted

for bringing up youth. Here is land to employ them in exercising

their bodies, and to keep them from idleness out of school hours. Here

are none of the temptations to debauch their tender minds, which are

common to more populous countries, or in places where children must

necessarily be brought up with negroes. What GOD intends to do with the

colony is not for me to enquire: secret things belong to him. It has

hitherto been wonderfully preserved, and the Orphan-house, like the

burning bush, has flourished unconsumed. In fine, the government has,

no doubt, its welfare much at heart: and, GOD willing, I intend to

carry on my design till I see the colony sink or swim. The money that

has been expended on the Orphan-house, and Orphan-house family, has

been of vast service to this northern part of the colony. And though

it has been greatly detrimental to my own private interest, yet I do

not repent of the undertaking. No, I rejoice in it daily, and hope

yet to see many more souls born unto GOD here. I have had a very

comfortable winter. The people of _Savannah_, having no minister till

lately, gladly accepted my labours; and at _Frederica_, the gentlemen

and soldiers of General ♦_Oglethorpe_’s regiment, as well as the

inhabitants of that town, received me very gladly. Major _Horton_

seems to behave very well; he has a very fine growing plantation. I saw

barley in the ear the first of _March_. _Georgia_ is very healthy. Not

above one, and that a little child, has died out of our family, since

it removed to _Bethesda_. I think the colony (were the inhabitants

sufficiently numerous) is capable of as good improvement as any on the

continent.

♦ “Oglethorp” replaced with “Oglethorpe”

For the satisfaction of my friends, and silencing, if possible, my

enemies, I have had my accounts from the very beginning to _January_

last, publickly audited and examined, debtor and creditor, article by

article; and an oath for confirmation, being an end of all strife, I

have sworn to them. If it gives you or others any satisfaction, I shall

be glad. I have no more to add, but to beg a continued interest in your

prayers, and subscribe myself, very dear Sir,

Your most affectionate friend, and servant,

_G. W._

To his Excellency JAMES WRIGHT, Esq. Captain General and Governor

in Chief of his Majesty’s province of _Georgia_, and to the

members of his Majesty’s council in the said province.

_The_ MEMORIAL _of_ George Whitefield, _Clerk_,