_To Mrs. J―――― F――――, in Charles-Town._
_On board the Minerva, Feb. 25, 1741._ _My very dear Friend_,
I Know you will rejoice at the receipt of this: You have abundant reason; the LORD hath been wonderous kind. We are now flying on the wings of the wind, and if it continues, we hope to be at _Cowes_ the beginning of next week. Your kind presents were of great service to my crazy body. The woman passenger has been serviceable in making us bread; and in short, GOD has wonderfully ordered all things for our great conveniency and comfort. O that my dear friends at _Charles-Town_, may hereby be excited to thankfulness on our behalf. I have frequently prayed for you both with my friends, and when in secret before the LORD. Indeed you are seldom out of mind. Dear Mrs. _F――――_, I believe GOD sent you to invite me to your house, and I believe the LORD will plentifully reward both of you, for all your works of faith and labours of love. I think henceforward I must call you _Mary_, and your husband, I hope, will be truly stiled _James_ the servant of the LORD. I trust you will both serve the LORD CHRIST, and give yourselves up to the guidance of his blessed word and providences day by day. It is a glorious privilege to be led by the spirit of GOD. I think I have felt, and do feel, at this time, his sacred influences upon my soul. My body is but weak, though better by much than when I left _Charles-Town_; however, my soul hath confidence in GOD. The archers will shoot sorely at me that I may fall; but GOD will cause my bow to abide in strength, and my arms shall be strengthened by the hands of the mighty GOD of _Jacob_. I need not ask for a continuance of your prayers, nor you for mine. I hope we shall be always present with each other in spirit, at the throne of grace. My dear friend, adieu: All with me salute you. Write often to
Your unworthy guest, but truly affectionate servant, friend, and brother in the LORD,