_To Mrs. J―――― F――――, in Charles-Town._
_On board the Minerva, Feb. 25, 1741._
_My very dear Friend_,
I Know you will rejoice at the receipt of this: You have abundant
reason; the LORD hath been wonderous kind. We are now flying on the
wings of the wind, and if it continues, we hope to be at _Cowes_ the
beginning of next week. Your kind presents were of great service to
my crazy body. The woman passenger has been serviceable in making
us bread; and in short, GOD has wonderfully ordered all things
for our great conveniency and comfort. O that my dear friends at
_Charles-Town_, may hereby be excited to thankfulness on our behalf.
I have frequently prayed for you both with my friends, and when in
secret before the LORD. Indeed you are seldom out of mind. Dear Mrs.
_F――――_, I believe GOD sent you to invite me to your house, and I
believe the LORD will plentifully reward both of you, for all your
works of faith and labours of love. I think henceforward I must call
you _Mary_, and your husband, I hope, will be truly stiled _James_ the
servant of the LORD. I trust you will both serve the LORD CHRIST, and
give yourselves up to the guidance of his blessed word and providences
day by day. It is a glorious privilege to be led by the spirit of GOD.
I think I have felt, and do feel, at this time, his sacred influences
upon my soul. My body is but weak, though better by much than when
I left _Charles-Town_; however, my soul hath confidence in GOD. The
archers will shoot sorely at me that I may fall; but GOD will cause
my bow to abide in strength, and my arms shall be strengthened by the
hands of the mighty GOD of _Jacob_. I need not ask for a continuance
of your prayers, nor you for mine. I hope we shall be always present
with each other in spirit, at the throne of grace. My dear friend,
adieu: All with me salute you. Write often to
Your unworthy guest, but truly affectionate servant,
friend, and brother in the LORD,
_G. W._