_To Mr. D―――― B――――._
_Newcastle, October 4, 1755._
_My dear Friend_,
WHO would but wish to be in heaven, where we shall enjoy the communion of saints without interruption? Whilst here, how long is it before we can answer each other’s letters? With difficulty I now sit down to answer your last; for these seven or eight days past, I have been deeply engaged in travelling, and preaching thrice a day. JESUS CHRIST hath made it pleasant to my soul, and comfortably supported my weak body. It being so late in the year, I cannot proceed further northward. However I must write, if it be only to let you know, that my dear _Scotch_ friends are continually upon my heart, and that I most earnestly beg the continuance of their prayers. I am a dwarf,――I am a dwarf,――and that is enough to excite their pity. Alas! alas! Autumn is come, winter is drawing on, and (O my GOD) how little have I done for thee in the summer. The concern I feel upon this account almost prevents my writing. Adieu, I must retire.――My tender love to Mrs. _B――――_, and all that are so kind as to inquire after me. Exhort them to love, and live near to the ever-loving JESUS, and for his great name’s sake, never to forget, my dear friend,
Their and your affectionate friend, and ready servant for CHRIST’s sake,