expect another letter. For near six weeks past I have been under great weakness of body; but notwithstanding have been enabled sometimes to preach with great power. I am now somewhat better, but, without a miracle, cannot think of being
long below. Indeed, honoured Mother, I every day long to be dissolved and to be with Christ. Pray tell Mr. W, that Mr. H, and I B, with one or two more of their relations, I believe, are effectually called of God. We had much power at Savannah. God hath sent me some family trials; but all things are working for good. I am, honoured Mother,
Your ever dutiful son, G. W.
LETTER CCXIV. To the Reverend Mr. J W.
Dear and Honoured Sir, Charles-Town, Aug. 25, 1740.
LAST night I had the pleasure of receiving an extract of your journal.—This morning I took a walk and read it. I pray God to give it his blessing. Many things I trust will prove beneficial, especially the account of yourself. Only, give me leave with all humility to exhort you not to be strenuous in opposing the doctrines of election and final perseverance, when, by your own confession, "you have not the witness of the spirit within yourself," and consequently are not a proper judge. I remember dear brother E told me one day, that "he was convinced of the perseverance of the saints." I told him, you was not. He replied, but he will be convinced when he hath got the spirit himself. I am assured, God has now for some years given me this living witness in my soul. I cannot say, I have since indulged any doubts (at least for no considerable time) about the forgiveness of my sins; nay, I can scarce say, that I ever doubted at all. When I have been nearest death, my evidences have been the clearest. I can say, I have been on the borders of Canaan, and do every day, nay, almost every moment, long for the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ; not to evade sufferings, but with a single desire to see his blessed face. I feel his blessed spirit daily filling my soul and body, as plain as I feel the air
