_To Mr. J―――― R――――._
_Charles-Town, July 15, 1740._ _Dear J――――_,
MAY you answer your name, be freely gracious, and filled with as much love as he was, who leaned on the sacred bosom of our dear Redeemer. I believe GOD has begun; if so, GOD will carry on the good work in your heart. It is the LORD’s doing. Not unto me, not unto me; but to free, rich, distinguishing, sovereign grace, be all the glory! The wearing off, or forgetting your convictions formerly, ought to make you more jealous of yourself now. The more you see the enmity of the heart, the better: you cannot then avoid abhorring yourself in dust and ashes. I rejoice you have been at _Neshamini_. I can say of Mr. _T――――_ and their brethren, as _David_ did of _Goliah_’s sword, “None like them.” I am glad you and my friend _R――――_ are acquainted. O see that you keep one another warm, and be zealous for the LORD your GOD. I wonder not at your master’s insinuations. Indeed, dear _J――――_, you must be tried thoroughly, if you would approve yourself to the glorious _Emmanuel_. Exhort all to die for him, rather than deny him in any wise. I find my suffering time at hand: but my dear LORD comforts me with his gracious and refreshing presence. A good work is carrying on here: let my dear friends help it forwards by their prayers. My love to all at the society; and accept of the same from
Your affectionate friend and servant in CHRIST,