_Philadelphia, Nov. 28, 1739._ _Dear Brother J._,
INDEED I love you. Why? Because I hope you are an _Israelite_ indeed; and one of those babes to whom it has been our LORD’s good pleasure to reveal the mysteries of the kingdom of GOD. It is special; it is a distinguishing gift. Be humble, dear _James_, be humble. Talk little, and think much. A wise man will guide his words with discretion. Be zealous for your dear Master. Let a zeal for his honour even eat you up; but then beg of GOD that it may be according to knowledge. Stand fast in the liberty wherewith CHRIST hath made you free, and be not again entangled with a yoke of bondage. Join not one of your works with your faith, in order to justify you before GOD: And if GOD gives you a spirit of prayer and supplication, fear not to pray as the spirit gives you utterance. Man may deride, but CHRIST will approve and accept you. Dear _James_, you see I do not forget you. I hope your little society increases, and that the LORD will always be adding to it such as shall be saved. Salute them all most kindly in my name. Exhort them to continue in the grace of GOD, and to pray for, dear _James_,
Your affectionate friend, brother, and servant,