_To Mr. D――――, of Edinburgh._
_London, Dec. 18, 1742._
_My very dear Friend and Brother_,
LAST night, just before your kind letter came to hand, I had been
lying on my face before our compassionate High-Priest, telling him
what great expences lay before me for his great Name sake. I wanted
300 _l._ to pay for the Orphans, and much to pay for my own necessary
expences, which he, by his providence, brought upon me. Your letter
came as an answer to my prayer. It humbled, at the same time that it
elated my soul, and greatly strengthened my faith. Surely the LORD is
on my side, and the Orphan-house will stand unconsumed in fire. The
enemies, and even many friends of JESUS speak against it; but this is
all to bring me nearer to the blessed JESUS, and to convince me that
our extremity is GOD’s opportunity. My dear man, GOD will abundantly
bless you for helping me at this juncture. I can find but few, who
think it a favour to do any thing for GOD, and love to help a friend
to the very last. O, dear Sir, was you here, I could weep over you,
and thank you most heartily. Last night I was enabled to intercede
for you very much. GOD will hear my prayer, and not let my dear friend
lose his reward. The 16th of this month was my birth-day. It made me
blush to think how much sin I have committed against, and how little
good I have done for GOD. As soon as I opened and read your letter,
amazed, I cried out, I am the vilest wretch living, and so I think now.
I know you will pray for me, and thank our Saviour too. He is very
kind to me. Our society goes on well. I am now in my winter-quarters,
preparing for a fresh campaign. Though I richly deserve it, yet our
infinitely condescending JESUS will not lay me aside, until he has
performed all his good pleasure in and by me. Wishing you, my dear
Sir, all the blessings of the everlasting covenant, and sending you
ten thousand thanks for all favours, I subscribe myself,
Your most obliged affectionate friend, brother,
and unworthy servant in JESUS CHRIST,
_G. W._