Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/147

 *self the victory, since I left New YorkThere has been such little opposition, that I have been tempted almost to cry out, "Satan, why sleepest thou?" But pities my weakness. Oh, dear Sir, thank him in my behalf, for indeed he deals most lovingly with, Rev. Sir,

Your most unworthy brother and fellow-labourer, G. W.

LETTER CXLV.

Dear Sir,     Upper Marlborough, Dec. 8, 1739.

I Cannot defer writing to dear Mr. N any longer.—This afternoon brought us hither. Some are solicitous for my staying here to-morrow. As it seems to be a call from providence, I have complied with their request. Oh that I may be enabled to lift up my voice like a trumpet, and to speak with the demonstration of the spirit and with power. These parts are in a dead sleep. At Anapolis, I preached twice, and spoke home to some ladies concerning the vanity of their false politeness. But alas, they are wedded to their Quadrille and Ombre. The minister of the place was under convictions—He wept twice, and earnestly begged my prayers. He will not frighten people I believe with harsh doctrine,—he loves to prophesy smooth things.— blessed the word wonderfully at Philadelphia. I have great reason to think many are brought home to. When I return, it will then be seen, who has received the word into an honest and good heart. By the divine assistance, I propose revisiting Philadelphia, New York, and to go as far as Boston, and so return to Georgia, before I take shipping again for EnglandThe direct my going in his way! About May you may expect to see me. My dear friend, pray that I may so improve the time of my absence, that at my return my progress may be made known to all men. It shames me to see what little proficiency I have made in the school of. If I do not begin to press forwards, how shall I appear before my blessed ? I feel myself to be the chief of sinners; surely never was a greater instance of redeeming distinguishing love. forbid that I should glory in any thing but free grace: had not plucked me as a brand out of the fire, I had now