_To the Rev. Mr. W――――, at Dundee._
_Bristol, Dec. 30, 1741._
_Reverend and dear Sir_,
I Should blame myself much, for not writing to you before now, was I
conscious it was owing to any wilful neglect: but my master’s business
hath so engaged me, that I really have not had an opportunity. GOD
gave us a sweet journey to _England_. Since my return hither, I have
been at _Gloucester_, _Bristol_, in _Wales_, and at _London_, and
have great reason to bless our _Emmanuel_ for what he has done for
his church. My soul hath drank largely of the divine love. I have been
carried as on eagles wings, and am now better in health than perhaps
ever since I have been in the ministry. I preach here twice daily.
In about a fortnight, I shall remove to _London_, where I purpose to
continue, GOD willing, till the weather permits of field-preaching
again. About Spring, if Providence favours, I hope to pay you a second
visit. In the mean while, I should be glad to hear from you, what
fruits you have seen spring from my first. I hope the LORD will make
your latter end greatly to increase. I shall rejoice to hear of your
success. My soul is much engaged for poor _Scotland_. I shall be glad
to hear who has succeeded the good Mr. _W――――_ of _Perth_. Ah dear
man! He is now gone into the world of spirits, where there is no
seceding, but all join in one common strife, who shall praise their
LORD and master in the most exalted strains. I long to follow, but
desire patiently to wait till my blessed change come. What a comfort,
dear Sir, is it to think, that death is conquered. How sweet to be one
of CHRIST’s waiting servants! It is a blessed post! And such honour
belongs to all his saints. Thanks be to GOD for this unspeakable gift.
Dear Sir, whilst I am writing, the fire kindles. I long to leap my
seventy years. Welcome eternity; I want to see time swallowed up. But
I must have done, having other letters to write. My kind love to your
household and all friends. I hope ere long you will send a line to,
reverend and dear Sir,
Your most affectionate, though unworthy brother
and servant in CHRIST,
_G. W._