some little demur among them. His Lordship perceiving the cause of it, immediately informed them, "they had nothing
to do with the damages, (that was to be referred to the King's-Bench) they were only to consider, whether the defendants were guilty or not." Whereupon in a few minutes they gave a verdict for the prosecutors, and brought in all the defendants guilty of the whole information lodged against them. I then retired to my lodgings, kneeled down, and with my friends gave thanks to our all-conquering Emmanuel. Afterwards I went to the inn, prayed and returned thanks with the witnesses, exhorted them to behave with meekness and humility to their adversaries; and after they had taken proper refreshment, I sent them home rejoicing. In the evening I preached on these words of the Psalmist, "By this I know that thou favourest me, since thou hast not suffered mine enemy to triumph over me." God was pleased to enlarge my heart much. I was very happy with my friends afterwards, and the next morning set out for London, where we had a blessed thanksgiving season, and from whence I take the first opportunity of sending you these particulars.
I remain, Sir, your very affectionate friend, G. W.
LETTER DL. To Mrs. D.
Dear Madam, London, March 15, 1744.
SHALL I promise and not perform? God forbid! This comes in answer to your commands, and to inform you, that through him who has the hearts of all men in his hands, we came off more than conquerors, respecting our Gloucester trial. The rioters were brought in guilty, and I suppose will have an execution issued out against them next Term. I hear they are hugely alarmed; but they know not that we intend to let them see what we could do, and then to forgive them. This troublesome affair being now over, I must prepare for my intended voyage. They tell me there is a ship going from Portsmouth. God willing, I purpose to take my passage in it, and though calls come to me from every quarter, yet I must; once more visit my dear family in America. Some well-mean-
