_Bristol, December 12, 1767._
_My dear Captain_,
I HOPE this will find you rejoicing with trembling, on account of an additional careful comfort. Thus it must be in this mixed state of things. Yet a little while, and our joy will be permanent, uninterrupted, and without alloy. For five days together we have been attending at the house of mourning. Many, I trust, were obliged to say, “How dreadful is this place.” Such a like scene, I never expect to see opened again on this side eternity. All is quiet, I trust, with you. But if diamond hath been cutting diamond, it will only be suitable to a church militant here on earth. Blessed be GOD for an almighty JESUS! who can by these mutual cuttings prepare the jewels for their respective places in the intended crown. Ere long he will count them up. Not one shall be wanting. Cordial love to all. I purpose being in town _Tuesday_ se’nnight in the evening. Brethren, pray for us. I shall make all easy at _Kingswood_ before I leave _Bristol_. That you may shine with distinguished lustre above, earnestly prays, my dear Captain,
Yours, &c. &c. in our _Emmanuel_,