467. Letter Mccccxxx.
LETTER MCCCCXXX.
T o Mr. R―― K――n.
Deal, September 14, 1769.
My very dear Friend, IT hath really given me some concern, that notwithstanding I have written so many letters, not a single friend hath wrote at a venture, though if we had been sailed, the letter might have been returned. The Captain hath been answered; Winter hath been answered. But—all is well. For wise reasons we are detained in the Downs. Who knows but it may be to awaken some souls at Deal? A peculiar providence brought me here. Warm-hearted Dr.
G――ns came on board to pay me a visit, was sick, lay in my state room, and learnt more experimentally to pray for those who occupy their business in the great waters. Mr. B――y of Ramsgate, and young Mr. G――ner, who was ordained here yesterday, followed after. At their request I came ashore yesterday morning. The ordination was very solemn, and I have not been more affected under any public ministrations a great while. At the request of many, I preached in the evening to a crouded auditory, and spent
the remainder of the night in godly conversation. Dr. G――ns will acquaint you with some pleasing particulars. If the wind continues contrary, perhaps
I may make an elopement to Margate. I wish I could see my sermon that is printed. You may at a proper season, in a proper way, hint as from yourself to ――, that I have often thought he would do for Bethesda academy. If I die, let not the hymn book be cashiered. I am glad to hear of the Amens at Tottenham-Court. I doubt not but it is the same at Tabernacle. I design to write to both, and to the conference, &c. But I cannot enlarge now. The young sailors begin to be more handy, and are attentive to oblige. This is the thirteenth time of my crossing the Atlantic Ocean. God bless you all! If further detained, you will hear again from, my very dear friend,
Less than the least of all, G. W.
P. S. A parcel might be sent by Saturday's coach, directed to the care of ――: he would return it if we are sailed. I should have the papers and the sermon. The ship that was lost hath been taken up and brought in. The passengers escaped in the boat. What are we that we should be preserved?
Grace! grace!