_To the Same._
_Oxon, Dec. 4, 1734._
_Dear Sir_,
I Am heartily glad to hear that the _country parson_ has had so good
an effect upon you, and that you are resolved to set in earnest, about
working out your salvation: Be sure quench not these first motions;
but go on vigorously and manfully, without the least regard to what
the world may say; if you can once break with that, you are safe. The
_prayers_, I hope to send you next week. Only let me give you this
caution, not to depend on any advice or book, that is given you; but
solely on the grace of GOD attending it. The book which I have sent to
my brother, and would recommend to you and all my _Gloucester_ friends,
will soon convince you how dangerous it is to be a lukewarm christian,
and that there is nothing to be done without breaking from the world,
denying ourselves daily, taking up our cross, and following JESUS
CHRIST. These things may seem a little terrible at first, but believe
me, they are nothing but suggestions of our enemy to deter us from
setting out; and if you can credit me, mortification itself, when once
practised, is the greatest pleasure in the world. But hold, I shall
transgress the time prescribed me, therefore give me only leave to
add my hearty prayer for your successful progress in religion, and to
subscribe myself in great haste, _Dear Sir_,
Your sincere friend and humble servant,
_G. W._