_To the Reverend Dr. C――――, in Boston._
_London, Nov. 18, 1742._
_Rev. and dear Sir_,
GLAD was I to receive another letter from you, before I sent off my
packets. I thank our loving LORD, for granting me the continuance
of his ministers affections. I hope this, and all his other mercies,
will lead me nearer and nearer to himself the fountain of all
mercies. Surely the friends of JESUS pray in my behalf; for I am still
strengthened more than ever, and enabled to rejoice in his goodness
all the day long. The confusion at _New-England_ has given me concern;
but our LORD will over-rule all for good. I was sorry to hear of
Mr. _D――――_’s imprisonment; and to be imprisoned for an unguarded
expression, I think is too, too severe, and not for the honour of
_Boston_ at all. Had I been in his place, I should have accepted bail.
When I shall come to _Boston_, the LORD JESUS only knows. I believe
it will not be long. I find I shall come in perilous times; but that
all-gracious Saviour, who has helped me hitherto, will guide me by
his council, and give me a true scriptural zeal. This is what I desire
all my friends to beg in my behalf. How hard is it to keep in the
true narrow path, when speaking for the LORD JESUS? GOD preserve me,
and all his ministers, from defending his truths and cause in our own,
or under the influence of a false spirit! It destroys the very cause
we would defend. As yet, in _Scotland_ there have been but few of
the disorders complained of amongst you. But as the work increases, I
suppose the enemies stratagems will increase also. This is my comfort,
JESUS reigns. The gates of hell shall never be able to prevail against
his church. I have had a late instance of his power and goodness,
in driving the _Spaniards_ out of _Georgia_. I hear they are gone.
I hope the Orphans are now at _Bethesda_ in peace. The continuation
of my account, I have sent with this, and a parcel of my sermons. Be
pleased to dispose of them, as you shall think proper. I salute all my
Reverend brethren that preach JESUS CHRIST in sincerity. I wish them
prosperity with all my heart, and pray for them every day, Reverend
Sir, my soul is now filled with a sense of redeeming love. O why me,
LORD, why me? Even so my Saviour, for so it seemed good in thy sight!
But I can write no more, having much business on my hands. We go on
well here. Our LORD blesses us much. I am, with much affection, Rev.
Sir,
Your most unworthy and younger brother
in the gospel of JESUS CHRIST,
_G. W._