_To the Rev. Mr. R―――― E――――._
_Edinburgh, Aug. 24, 1741._ _Reverend and dear Sir_,
I Thank you for your kind letter. I believe it proceeded from love; but, as yet, I cannot think the solemn league and covenant is any way obligatory upon me. Indeed, dear Sir, you mistake if you think I temporize on account of the orphans. Be it far from me. I abhor the very thought of it. I proceed now, just as I have done ever since I came out in the ministry; and so far from not setting a hedge about our LORD’s garden, that was I called to it, I should set a much closer hedge than that which the associate presbytery are planting. I should enquire into people’s experiences, before I admitted them to the LORD’s table. I would have church members meet in church fellowship, and tell one another what GOD has done for their souls. You seem to think I am not open to light. That I may give you satisfaction, I am willing to confer with Mr. _W――――_ at _Perth_, where I am to be by divine permission on _Thursday, September 3_. On _Tuesday_ next, about four in the afternoon, I purpose preaching at _Dumfermling_.――I am engaged to sup at your collegue’s house, but intend to lie at yours. In the mean time be pleased to pray for me, and to remember my love to all your family; and believe me, reverend Sir, to be
Your most affectionate, though unworthy brother and servant,