_To the Rev. Mr. B. I._
_Savannah, March, 28, 1740._
HOW glad should I be of a letter from dear brother _I――――_? When shall my soul be refreshed, with hearing that the work of the LORD prospers in his hand? I suppose before now you have received my letters, and seen my journal, and I believe GOD is yet preparing great things for us. Many at _Charles-town_, lately were brought to see their want of JESUS CHRIST――Next week, GOD willing, I purpose going to _Philadelphia_, and then perhaps may see _England_ the latter end of this year, or beginning of the next. The orphan-house goes on bravely. I have forty children to maintain, besides workmen and assistants――The great housholder of the world does, and will I am persuaded richly provide for us all. The colony itself is in a very declining way. But our extremity is GOD’s opportunity――Our brethren I trust go forwards in the spiritual life. I have often great inward trials――Pray that I may be kept in all changes, and seeming chances of this mortal life. I believe it to be GOD’s will that I should marry. One, who may be looked upon as a superior, is absolutely necessary for the due management of affairs. However, I pray GOD, that I may not have a wife, till I can live as though I had none――You may communicate this to some of our intimates; for I would call CHRIST and his disciples to the marriage. If I am deluded, pray that GOD would reveal it to
Your most affectionate brother and servant,