_To Mr. R―――― K――――n._
_Deal, September 14, 1769._
_My very dear Friend_,
IT hath really given me some concern, that notwithstanding I have written so many letters, not a single friend hath wrote at a venture, though if we had been sailed, the letter might have been returned. The Captain hath been answered; _Winter_ hath been answered. But――all is well. For wise reasons we are detained in the _Downs_. Who knows but it may be to awaken some souls at _Deal_? A peculiar providence brought me here. Warm-hearted Dr. _G――――ns_ came on board to pay me a visit, was sick, lay in my state room, and learnt more experimentally to pray for those who occupy their business in the great waters. Mr. _B――――y_ of _Ramsgate_, and young Mr. _G――――ner_, who was ordained here yesterday, followed after. At their request I came ashore yesterday morning. The ordination was very solemn, and I have not been more affected under any public ministrations a great while. At the request of many, I preached in the evening to a crouded auditory, and spent the remainder of the night in godly conversation. Dr. _G――――ns_ will acquaint you with some pleasing particulars. If the wind continues contrary, perhaps I may make an elopement to _Margate_. I wish I could see my sermon that is printed. You may at a proper season, in a proper way, hint as from yourself to ――――, that I have often thought he would do for _Bethesda_ academy. If I die, let not the hymn book be cashiered. I am glad to hear of the _Amens_ at _Tottenham-Court_. I doubt not but it is the same at ♦Tabernacle. I design to write to both, and to the conference, &c. But I cannot enlarge now. The young sailors begin to be more handy, and are attentive to oblige. This is the thirteenth time of my crossing the _Atlantic Ocean_. GOD bless you all! If further detained, you will hear again from, my very dear friend,
Less than the least of all,