354. Letter Mcccxvii.
LETTER MCCCXVII.
T o Mr. S―― S――.
Nassau-Hall, September 25, 1764.
My very dear Friend, AT length I am broke loose from my summer's retreat, and have preached twice at Philadelphia. Many could say, "This was no other than the house of God, the gate of heaven." Yesterday I came here, to preach at the commencement to-morrow. Surely it is one of the best regulated institutions in the world. But most importunate calls come from every quarter. So large is the range, that although I have been a twelvemonth in America, I have scarce begun to begin. At present I can only go strait forward, and preach in my way to Georgia. There I hope to be about Christmas. God knows how I am to be disposed of afterwards: whether to England, or to take another tour on the continent, is best known to Him who orders all things well.
To feel his power, to hear his voice, To taste his love, be all my choice.
Through infinite mercy my bodily health is somewhat improved. Perhaps a few more months itinerating might improve it more. Father, thy will be done! You and yours, I trust, prosper both in soul and body. Tender love and hearty thanks await you, and all enquiring friends. If the person in Mr.
D――t's compting-house, would go over to New-York, he might get a very handsome maintenance in teaching young gentlemen and ladies to read well. O what new scenes open in this new world. In every place the word hath run and been glorified. I could enlarge, but am interrupted. You and yours will continue to pray for me. I retain my old name. I am the chief of sinners, less than the least of all saints, but for Christ's sake, my very dear friends, Yours, &c. &c. &c.
G. W.
October 3.
Since writing the above I have received your kind letter. Blessed be God that you and yours are so well in the best sense. The books may be committed to the care of Mr. Mauduit, agent for New-England. That will give you least trouble. It is a good charity. Lord Jesus, accept and bless it.
Amen, and Amen!