_To Mr. A――――s._
_London, March 11, 1769._
_My very dear Tommy_,
YOUR consciousness of my settled friendship, will not permit you to interpret my silence to a want of love. How great that is, and on what a solid basis it is founded, the great day will discover. Through infinite mercy, I am enabled to preach thrice a week, besides other occasional exercises; and indeed (O amazing condescension!) the shout of the King of kings is amongst us. After _Easter_, I hope to make an elopement to _Gloucestershire_, and some western parts. Could you, upon the receipt of this, go to _Bristol_? Mr. _B――――s_ must come immediately to _London_. I feel the loss of my right hand daily; but right hands and right eyes must be parted with for Him, who ordereth all things well.
I would believe thy promise, LORD; O help my unbelief!
Leaving you to add a heart-felt _Amen_, I am, my very dear _Tommy_,
Less than the least of all,