Wesley Corpus

To John Valton Date: LONDON, December 22, 1786. Source: The Letters of John Wesley (1786) Author: John Wesley --- MY DEAR BROTHER, - When I was quite worn down, it pleased God to make my marriage a means of restoring my health and strength. I trust yours will have the same effect upon you; though not by natural but divine efficacy. But this cannot be, unless you intermit preaching. I therefore positively require you, for a month from the date of this, not to preach more than twice in a week; and if you preach less, I will not blame you. But you should at all hazards ride an hour every day, only wrapping yourself up very close. Take care not to lodge in too close a room and not to draw your curtains. For Medicine I should chiefly recommend stewed prunes, and either beef tea or a small cup of fresh churned buttermilk four times a day. Let my dear friend Sister Valton take note of this. As we are just entering upon the affairs of the poor at London, I want to know what has been done at Bristol. A particular account of the steps which have been taken there may both animate and instruct our friends here. That grace and peace may be multiplied upon you both is the prayer of Your affectionate friend and brother. I will speak to Dr. Whitehead. It is amazing that we cannot find in the three kingdoms a fit master for Kingswood School! Talk largely with Michael Griffith, then pray with him and for him; and God will give him gifts. [See letter of Oct. 29 to Valton.] Peace be with your spirits! Adieu! We have great reason to rejoice at the prosperity of the work of God in Bristol. And I hope you have also reason to rejoice for your union with an Israelite indeed. [Valton had married Mrs. Judith Purnell. See letter of Sept. 5, 1785.] Pray do as much as you can, and don't attempt to do more, or you will very soon do nothing.