_To Mr. S―――― S――――._
_Downs, September 16, 1769._
_My very dear steady Friend_,
I MUST not leave sight of the _Downs_, without sending you a few grateful, sympathizing, parting lines. I know in what a situation they will find you, filling up the measure of CHRIST’s sufferings which are behind. Amazing! even bodily sufferings, when brought on by working for Him, he accounts his own.
He knows what this temptation means, For he hath felt the same.
What a mercy this, when wearisome nights and days are appointed for us! O that patience may have its perfect work in our souls! It will, it shall. Faithful is he that hath promised, who also will do it. Fine sayings these for an old weather-beaten almost worn-out pilgrim, just on his entrance upon a new voyage. But _Ebenezer! Ebenezer!_ He that hath helped and delivered twelve times, will not fail the thirteenth.
I would believe thy promise, LORD; O help my unbelief!
Hitherto the prospect is comfortable. Accommodations good. All on board civil, and willing to attend upon divine worship. Above all, JESUS is kind, yea very kind to the better part of, my very dear never-to-be-forgotten friend,
Less than the least of all,