_To Mrs. H._
_Deal, Jan. 11, 1738._ _Dear Mrs. H._,
HITHER has GOD safely brought us. Pray give thanks on my behalf. We have had two little storms, the one we escaped by being at _Margate_, the other we were enabled to bear manfully, and to pray for you and yours on open deck in the midst of it. All the officers are exceeding civil. The captain gives me the free use of his cabin, and some impression is made on the soldiers. I read prayers and preach twice every day, and, would you think it, the very soldiers stand out to say their catechism. Oh that they may be soldiers of JESUS CHRIST. GOD gives me great joy, and excites me to adore him more and more, when I behold his wonders in the deep. I am but a fresh-water sailor; but GOD’s strength will be magnified in my weakness, and I verily believe we shall arrive at the haven, where we wou’d be. Oh that we may all so pass thro’ the waves of this troublesome world, that at last we may arrive at the port of everlasting rest! Expect to hear from me at _Gibraltar_, and assure yourself your favours shall never be forgotten by
Your sincere friend,