Chapter LVII: Letter DLIII: To Mr. S――――

_Plymouth, July 21, 1744._

I Expected a line from you this morning; but I suppose you think we are gone. This day came in a privateer, which saw the _Brest_ Squadron that has pursued two of our men of war, the _Dreadnought_ and _Frederick_; so that had we sailed, we should in all probability have been carried into _France_. We are now to go under convoy of the grand fleet; many letters from our friends at _Portsmouth_ inform us, that they are to sail on _Sunday_; but the wind hath not been very favourable, so we may yet stay some days longer. I never was so easy in this respect before. In one or two things I find my will reluctant; but JESUS will bring all things in subjection to him. I have been greatly refreshed this evening in preaching his blood. The congregations grow visibly every day. You will see the letter from _Kingsbridge_.――Last night many from the _Dock_ came and guarded me home, being apprehensive there was a design against me. Without my knowledge, they insulted a man who intended to hurt me, for which I am sorry. We had a wonderful good time last night. O help me to praise my Saviour! My health is better. I hope you got to _London_ well. Whether we sail or not, expect to hear again from dear, dear _J――――_,

Ever, ever yours, &c.
_G. W._

_Open a door, which earth and hell_
_May strive to shut, but strive in vain;_
_Let thy word richly with them dwell,_
_And let their gracious fruit remain!_