Page:The Works of the Reverend George Whitefield, M.A. (1771 Vol 1).djvu/468

 say, "It is good for me that I have been afflicted;" for had it not been so, I should have gone astray. How apt are we when in health, to follow afar off, and sink into tepidity and a laodicean spirit? May this sickness be sanctified to the purging of your Lordship's soul, and be a means of drawing you nearer to ! Our glorious High-priest still continues to load me with his benefits. He dealt most tenderly with me on the road, and blesses me much here. I am now in my winter quarters, preparing for a fresh campaign. Happy they that fight under the Redeemer's banner! That your Lordship may be always fighting the good fight of faith, and at length lay hold on eternal life, is the earnest prayer of, my Lord,

Your Lordship's most obedient and obliged humble servant, G. W.    LETTER CCCCLXXIII. To Mr. S, of Bristol.

London, Nov. 15, 1742.

My dear Brother S,

I Gave thanks on your behalf, when I read your letters; being encouraged thereby to hope, that is indeed about to take full possession of your soul. A proper season this to enter into the marriage state, an union representing the mystical union between and his Church. My brother, you cannot think of it with too much solemnity. It is a matter of great importance, in which the future comfort of your life much depends. I would advise you to read over the matrimonial office, and turn it into a prayer. As for outward affairs, I think it quite proper to have them settled, as I am a minister of, and ought therefore to be freed as much as may be from all worldly incumbrances. Be pleased to draw out your account, and when the captain comes, desire him to draw out his, that receipts may pass on both sides. I shall pay Mr. N as desired. I am glad you are so friendly with Mr. W. I trust we shall learn more and more to love one another.

Yours most affectionately in , G. W.