_To Mrs. L――――._
_Charles-Town, Aug. 22, 1740._ _Honoured Mother_,
ALTHOUGH I had not the pleasure of receiving one line, either from your dear self, or from any other of my beloved friends; yet my heart was rejoiced just now by a sailor, who told me, that he saw and conversed with you the twenty-ninth of _May_ last. I thank you for the salutation sent to me by him. Indeed I thank you from my very heart: for I feel myself unworthy of your notice. Every day I love and honour you more and more; and when you come to judgment, GOD will shew you how many tears I have shed in secret for you and my dear sister. O let them not be in vain! _Honoured Mother_, fly to JESUS.――Behold, with open arms, yonder he stands, ready to embrace you, if you feel your misery, and are willing to come to him to find rest. May the great GOD, who only can govern the wills and affections of sinful men, make you willing in the day of his power! Yesterday GOD brought me hither again. In a few days, I hope to embark for _New-England_; thence, GOD willing, you may expect another letter. For near six weeks past I have been under great weakness of body; but notwithstanding have been enabled sometimes to preach with great power. I am now somewhat better, but, without a miracle, cannot think of being long below. Indeed, _honoured Mother_, I every day long to be dissolved and to be with CHRIST. Pray tell Mr. _W――――_, that Mr. _H――――_, and _I―――― B――――_, with one or two more of their relations, I believe, are effectually called of GOD. We had much power at _Savannah_. GOD hath sent me some family trials; but all things are working for good. I am, honoured Mother,
Your ever dutiful son,