_To the Reverend Mr. S――――._
_Philadelphia, June 23, 1747._
_Reverend and dear Sir_,
SINCE my last, I have been several times on the verge of eternity. To-day I have got a few more spirits. I would improve them in answering your kind letter, which I received yesterday. I am obliged to _Charles- Town_ friends: their example will certainly influence many here. Something is upon the anvil. Particulars expect in my next. To-morrow, GOD willing, I set out for _New-York_, to see if I can gain strength. At present I am so weak, that I cannot preach.――’Tis hard work to be silent; but I must be tried every way. Friends are exceeding kind. What is the best of all, the friend of sinners looks in upon, and comforts my heart. I have had loud calls to _England_. Matters go on bravely there and in _Wales_. My _State Sermon_ has gone through two editions. They have also my five last sermons, which have convinced my friends that I am firm to my principles. May JESUS keep me steady till I die! I am glad Mr. _P――――_ went off so well. His children I look upon as my own. The things which he had belong to me. I would have them taken to _Providence_: for that also _Deus providebit_. Your father is well, and always talking of you. Why did you not mention his wife in your letter? She is a discreet woman, and desired to be remembered to you. Every day she expects to lie in. You will excuse my enlarging.――Strength begins to fail me. However, whilst I have strength I would employ it in praying for you and yours. I subscribe myself, reverend and very dear Sir,
Yours most affectionately in CHRIST JESUS, _G. W._