_To the Reverend Mr. O――――, at Aberdeen._
_Perth, Sept. 3, 1741._ _Reverend and dear Sir_,
I Have received two letters from you, which much affect me, knowing how unworthy I am of such endearing expressions, or indeed of any notice at all. But what shall I say? Grace! grace! JESUS loves me, and so does his servant for JESU’s sake. O free grace! I am sorry to find that any should insinuate, my not coming to _Aberdeen_ is owing to your cold invitation. Such a thought never entered my heart, but quite the contrary. The distance of the way, and my pressing call to _England_, will keep me from you, and nothing else. I love and honour you for my master’s sake. I should be glad to wash your feet, and if possible I will yet see you. But if GOD should not permit me, dear Sir, be not offended. The LORD is pleased to give me much freedom and power in preaching. Congregations are every where large, and they have been very liberal to my poor orphans. O that I was humble, and thankful! I am the chief of sinners: I feel myself such. O the efficacy of CHRIST’s blood! It is omnipotent; it hath saved me. Dear Sir, my heart is melted down with the love of JESUS. He is a dear master. He hath suffered no evil to befal me, as you have already heard. I have not so much as hurt my foot against a stone. Help me to praise him. Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, to receive all honour and glory and riches and power and blessing! With much difficulty, I get time to send you these few lines.――Reverend and dear Sir,
Your very affectionate, obedient friend, younger brother, and servant in the gospel,