_To Mrs. D――――._
_London, March 15, 1744._
_Dear Madam_,
SHALL I promise and not perform? GOD forbid! This comes in answer to your commands, and to inform you, that through him who has the hearts of all men in his hands, we came off more than conquerors, respecting our _Gloucester_ trial. The rioters were brought in guilty, and I suppose will have an execution issued out against them next Term. I hear they are hugely alarmed; but they know not that we intend to let them see what we could do, and then to forgive them. This troublesome affair being now over, I must prepare for my intended voyage. They tell me there is a ship going from _Portsmouth_. GOD willing, I purpose to take my passage in it, and though calls come to me from every quarter, yet I must; once more visit my dear family in _America_. Some well-meaning people threaten me with I know not what, if I embark at this time; but my absence hath been so long and unexpected, that come what will, I am determined to prosecute my intended voyage; and therefore whether we meet any more in the flesh, I trust we shall meet in the world of spirits, where parting, weeping, and breaking of hearts will no more disturb and try the affections of, dear Madam,
Yours in the dear _Emmanuel_, _G. W._