Wesley Corpus

To Alexander Knox Date: LONDON, January 27, 1776. Source: The Letters of John Wesley (1776) Author: John Wesley --- MY DEAR ALLECK,--I wrote a particular answer to your last a day or two after I received it. 'Tis well if someone did not intercept it; otherwise I know not how it could miscarry. Your illness will continue just so long as is necessary to suppress the fire of youth, to keep you dead to the world, and to prevent your seeking happiness where it never was nor ever can be found. Considered in this view, it is a great blessing and a proof of God's watchful care over you .... I cannot but admire the wisdom and goodness of Divine Providence with regard to you. As you have all the necessaries and conveniences of life; as you have a tender, indulgent parent; as you have a natural sprightliness and flow of spirits, you must in all probability have excited the admiration or affection of your relations and acquaintance, and have placed your happiness therein, had not so wonderful a counterpoise been prepared for you. A common illness, especially a transient one, would by no means have answered the intention, or saved you either from admiring yourself or from being admired by others. Therefore God keeps you long in His school, the very best wherein Infinite Wisdom could place you, that you may thoroughly learn to be meek and lowly in heart and to seek all your happiness in God. Wishing every blessing to my dear Mrs. Knox and the little ones, I remain Yours affectionately.