_Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._
_Rev. and Dear Sir_,
WHY so long silent during my stay in _England_? why did you not write
me a letter of reproof, and smite me friendly for what you thought
amiss in the discourse between me and a friend at _Bristol_? I should
have taken it kindly at your hands. When I am unwilling to be told of
my faults, dear Sir, correspond with me no more. If I know any thing
of this treacherous heart of mine, I love those most, who are most
faithful to me in this respect: henceforward, dear Sir, I beseech you
by the mercies of GOD in CHRIST JESUS, spare me not. I am blind, I am
full of self-pride, and self-love, and yet know it not. Blessed be GOD,
who during my retirement has been pleased to let me see something of
my own vileness. I trust he will never leave nor forsake me, till I
know myself even as I am known. I need not fear the sight of sin, when
I have a perfect everlasting righteousness wrought out for me by that
GOD-man CHRIST JESUS. The riches of his free grace, cause me daily
to triumph over all the temptations of the wicked one, who is very
vigilant, and seeks all occasions to disturb me. The LORD CHRIST is my
helper, and the lifter up of my head. It is good for me to be tempted.
By inward trials I trust my divine master will prepare me for his
future mercies. I am persuaded I shall yet see great things, and be
called to suffer for his name sake. Through much tribulation, I must
enter into glory. Lift up your hands, dear Sir, when praying at the
sanctuary, in my behalf; intreat the same favour of the elect lady. As
I am enabled, it shall be returned; and, GOD willing, when I come next
to _England_, you may expect a visit from, dear and reverend Sir,
Your most obliged friend and servant,
_G. W._