Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/181

 for me; and rest satisfied that both you and my other English friends are always remembered by Yours,  G. W.     LETTER CLXXXI. To W. S. Esq.

My dear Brother,     Reedy Island, May 19, 1740.

I Know very well what it is to part from a friend which is as one's own soul; and therefore could in some measure sympathize with you in what you felt when parting from me. The good sanctify my friendship to you, and grant we may go hand in hand to heaven. One of the inclosed papers will shew you the event of what you inserted (unknown to me) in the News. However, be not disheartened; shall make even this to work together for your good. The war between Michael and the dragon has much increased. Mr. C has preached most of his people away from him. He lashed me most bravely the Sunday before I came away. Mr. A also preaches against me. Mr. C did not come to take his leave of me; and Mr. J is very inveterate. Now I believe our 's kingdom will come with power. At New-York the word ran. Twice or thrice our appeared for us in a most glorious manner. Mr. T and his brethren glow with divine warmth; and I have conversed with one of the ministers of Long Island, whom has lately sent forth: he is a sweet zealous soul. Last week, at Nottingham and Mr. B's, how did manifest his glory! We had about twelve thousand hearers; and such a melting, such a crying, (they say) was scarcely ever seen. Blessed be, the devil's children begin to throw off the mask. I want to draw the lingering battle on. At Philadelphia affairs go on better and better; only Satan now begins to throw many into fits. I have generally preached twice and rode near thirty miles a-day since you left me. The hath been my support, and has often so melted me with a sense of his free, sovereign, and everlasting love, that some thought I was giving up the ghost. Oh never let go your sense of 's sovereign, everlasting love! It is food to my poor soul. Was it not for that, surely I must sink