LETTER CLXXI.

_To the Rev. Mr. B. I._

_Savannah, March, 28, 1740._

HOW glad should I be of a letter from dear brother _I――――_? When shall

my soul be refreshed, with hearing that the work of the LORD prospers

in his hand? I suppose before now you have received my letters, and

seen my journal, and I believe GOD is yet preparing great things

for us. Many at _Charles-town_, lately were brought to see their

want of JESUS CHRIST――Next week, GOD willing, I purpose going to

_Philadelphia_, and then perhaps may see _England_ the latter end of

this year, or beginning of the next. The orphan-house goes on bravely.

I have forty children to maintain, besides workmen and assistants――The

great housholder of the world does, and will I am persuaded richly

provide for us all. The colony itself is in a very declining way. But

our extremity is GOD’s opportunity――Our brethren I trust go forwards

in the spiritual life. I have often great inward trials――Pray that

I may be kept in all changes, and seeming chances of this mortal

life. I believe it to be GOD’s will that I should marry. One, who

may be looked upon as a superior, is absolutely necessary for the due

management of affairs. However, I pray GOD, that I may not have a wife,

till I can live as though I had none――You may communicate this to some

of our intimates; for I would call CHRIST and his disciples to the

marriage. If I am deluded, pray that GOD would reveal it to

Your most affectionate brother and servant,

_G. W._

The works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A., Vol. 1 (of 6) · 第 183 / 518 题