_To Mr. Thomas P._
_Philadelphia, Nov. 10, 1739._ _Dear Sir_,
THOUGH unknown to you in person, yet as you was pleased to think me worthy of the care of your dear son, I think it my duty to acquaint you of his welfare. I bless GOD that he came with me. He is diligent and pious, and I trust will be a comfort to you in your declining years: His mind seems settled and composed, and by reading and following the bible, he is partaker of that peace which the world cannot give. His dear and honoured father is much upon his heart. How would it rejoice him to hear that you also was become a christian indeed? Be not offended, dear Sir, at my expressing myself thus. Assure yourself that christianity is something more than a name and a bare outward profession. Morality of itself, dear Sir, will never carry us to heaven; no, JESUS CHRIST is the way, the truth, and the life. There is no being happy without a lively faith in him, wrought in the heart by the blessed spirit of GOD. This faith transforms the whole man, delivers him from the tyranny of his passions, and makes him entirely a new creature. This is the reason why it is foolishness to the world. Your son’s case in this respect was not singular. As soon as ever we commence christians, we commence fools for CHRIST’s sake. Every truly religious man must be deemed a madman. Forgive this freedom, dear Sir; whilst I am writing, I find a love for your soul arising in my heart, and methinks I could do any thing to bring your grey hairs with comfort to the grave. Dear Sir, there is mercy with CHRIST even for those who come in at the eleventh hour. CHRIST came to save poor sinners; he came to save you, dear Sir, if you lay hold on him by a living faith. That GOD may give you this faith, and thereby make you happy in time and to eternity, is the hearty prayer of, dear Sir,
Your obliged friend and servant,