_To the Reverend Mr. O――――, at Aberdeen._
_Perth, Sept. 3, 1741._
_Reverend and dear Sir_,
I Have received two letters from you, which much affect me, knowing
how unworthy I am of such endearing expressions, or indeed of any
notice at all. But what shall I say? Grace! grace! JESUS loves me,
and so does his servant for JESU’s sake. O free grace! I am sorry to
find that any should insinuate, my not coming to _Aberdeen_ is owing
to your cold invitation. Such a thought never entered my heart, but
quite the contrary. The distance of the way, and my pressing call to
_England_, will keep me from you, and nothing else. I love and honour
you for my master’s sake. I should be glad to wash your feet, and if
possible I will yet see you. But if GOD should not permit me, dear Sir,
be not offended. The LORD is pleased to give me much freedom and power
in preaching. Congregations are every where large, and they have been
very liberal to my poor orphans. O that I was humble, and thankful!
I am the chief of sinners: I feel myself such. O the efficacy of
CHRIST’s blood! It is omnipotent; it hath saved me. Dear Sir, my heart
is melted down with the love of JESUS. He is a dear master. He hath
suffered no evil to befal me, as you have already heard. I have not
so much as hurt my foot against a stone. Help me to praise him. Worthy
is the Lamb that was slain, to receive all honour and glory and riches
and power and blessing! With much difficulty, I get time to send you
these few lines.――Reverend and dear Sir,
Your very affectionate, obedient friend, younger brother,
and servant in the gospel,
_G. W._
P. S. For nine days past, I have continued preaching with great power
twice every day, to very large and affected auditories in many towns
and villages.