LETTER CCLXVI.
To Mr. T S, in London.
My dear Brother, On board the Minerva, Feb. 20, 1741.
I Have kept your letter by me till now, that I might answer it on my voyage. It speaks the language of a perplexed heart, and plainly shews me, that satan loves to keep us in bondage. My dear Brother, I think you have done wrong in holding your peace. I am sure you once felt that freedom of soul, which you are a stranger to now. The way of duty is the way of safety. Whatever you may say to the contrary, unless you will give the lie to your own experiences, you must confess, that you have indeed tasted of the good word of life. You should, therefore, have went forwards, and not have turned back again, and thereby plunged yourself into darkness; darkness that may be felt. Alas, you have too eagerly embraced principles (I fear) contrary to the gospel of Christ. You are aiming at a false voluntary humility, and are returning back to the flesh pots of Egypt. I know my words will have but little force with some, but I must deliver my soul. God was once pleased to work upon you by my ministry, and therefore I am more solicitous for your welfare. I know the advice you would give me is, "be still." I hope I am, so far as really to know the Lord; but yet I will strive, yet will I walk in all the ordinances of God, and go on from strength to strength till I come to appear before him in his heavenly Zion. I write this, out of the fulness of my heart. Indeed I love you, and the brethren; I am willing to be the servant of you all. I am less than the least. However, I dare not embrace tenets that are not agreeable to the form of sound words. Let me see you as soon as may be after my arrival, and in the mean while accept of hearty love, from
Your affectionate brother and servant in Christ,
G. W.
