Wesley Corpus

DEAR JOSEPH,--That Michael [Thompson was in Hall. Michael Fenwick was hospitably entertained by a gentleman at Bridlington for 'some years previous to his death' in 1797. See Atmore's Memorial, p. 124.] is not overcharged with wisdom is certain. But I do not know that he is a mischief-maker. It is your part to insist upon his keeping his round; to press the Yearly Collection in every place; and to see that all our rules be observed, whoever praises or blames. You have only to commend yourself to every man's conscience in the sight of God.... Whoever among us undertakes to baptize a child is ipso facto excluded from our Connexion.--I am Your affectionate friend and brother. To Mrs. Savage GRIMSBY, July 22, 1772. MY DEAR SISTER,--It is easy to see the difference between those two things, sinfulness and helplessness. The former you need feel no more; the latter you will feel as long as you live. And, indeed, the nearer you draw to God, the more sensible of it you will be. But beware this does not bring you into the least doubt of what God has done for your soul. And beware it does not make you a jot the less forward to speak of it with all simplicity. Do you still feel an entire deliverance from pride, anger, and every desire that does not centre in God Do you trust Him both with soul and body Have you learned to cast all your care upon Him Are you always happy in Him In what sense do you pray without ceasing Expect all the promises!--I am, my dear sister, Your affectionate brother. In about a fortnight I am to be at Mr. Glynne's, Shrewsbury [Edward Glynne's mother was cousin to Lord Hereford, and wrote to him in defence of the Methodists. See Journal, iv. 491; Wesley's Veterans, i. 219-22; W.H.S. iv. 217 - 20.] To Philothea Briggs LEWISHAM, July 23, 1772. At many times our advances in the race that is set before us are clear and perceptible; at other times they are no more perceptible (at least to ourselves) than the growth of a tree. At any time you may pray Strength and comfort from Thy word Imperceptibly supply.