Wesley Corpus

MY DEAR HETTY, -- In the success of Mr. Leach’s preaching we have one proof of a thousand that the blessing of God always attends the publishing of full salvation as attainable now by simple faith. But there is a danger here which is to be carefully guarded against--namely, lest the other preachers should be jealous of his success. This has been a very common case. And you can hardly conceive what a grievous hindrance it has always been to the work of God. Both he himself, therefore, and all that love him should do everything that is in their power to prevent it; he especially, by an humble, condescending, obliging behavior to his fellow laborers. And it will be prudent for you all not to speak too strongly in commendation of him in their hearing; for, you know, ‘the spirit that is in us lusteth to envy.’ I have never at all repented of my late journey to Chester [In April 1782. See Journal, vi. 313.]; a flame was kindled both there and at Wrexham, which I trust will not soon be put out. I do not know that I have spent a day at Chester with so much satisfaction for many a year. This afternoon I was agreeably surprised by a letter from our dear Miss Ritchie. [See his reply on Jan. 19.] It really seems as if God, in answer to many prayers, has lent her to us yet a little longer. He bringeth down to the grave and bringeth up again. Wise are all His ways! I am not assured that there is not something preternatural in those pains which you frequently experience. Not improbably they are caused by a messenger of Satan, who is permitted to buffet you. But all is well; you find in this and all things His grace is sufficient for you. -- I always am, my dear Hetty, Most affectionately yours. To John Valton LONDON, January 18, 1782.