(though in much weakness) to my dear Mr. H. The present weakness of my body will not suffer me to enlarge much to you; though, was I to follow the inclination of my soul, I should fill up many sheets. My dear brother, I love you unfeignedly in the bowels of Jesus Christ, and heartily thank you for all your works of faith, and the care you have taken of my dear family. Surely our Lord sent you to Bethesda, and however cloudy the prospect may have been for some time, I am persuaded a glorious sunshine will succeed, and you shall yet see the salvation of our God. When our Lord has any thing great to do, he is generally a great while bringing it about, and many unaccountable dark providences generally intervene. Thus it was with Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and all the eminent men of God in the days of old. Thus our Lord is pleased to deal with me, and my affairs. Many precious promises have been given me in respect to myself, my dear family, and the church of Jesus Christ, which I am sure will be fulfilled in due time. I long to be with you, to open our hearts freely, and to tell one another what our good God has done for our souls. Great things has he done for me indeed, and greater things is he yet doing, and about to do. The work of God is likely to spread far and near, and such are daily added to the church as shall be saved. I am employed every moment for the best of Masters, and only lament that I can do no more. For some days, my body has been much indisposed, but not so as to prevent my preaching. As my day is, so is my strength; and as afflictions abound, consolations much more abound. I know that this will lead you to give thanks on my behalf. I am glad when I hear it goes well with you and yours. I am now like St. Paul, who could have no rest, 'till he sent a brother to the church, that he might enquire of their affairs, and know how they did. The person that brings this, loves Jesus in sincerity, and I trust will be a blessing to the house. I would have him employed among the children, or as you and the brethren shall think fit. Our Saviour, I hope, will direct you in every thing. As strength shall permit, I intend writing to Mr. J. Blessed be God for raising up such dear friends. He never can or will forsake those that put their trust in him. I hope it is well with you and yours. I doubt not but your souls
