Wesley Corpus

MY DEAR BROTHER, -- You do well to write without disguise. Otherwise I should not be able to judge. As you state the matter I cannot but agree with you that you are called to marry. But 'tis pity that you had not told me these things as plainly before the Conference. Then I could have made the way plain for you which now will be attended with some difficulty. -- I am, dear Billy, Your affectionate friend and brother. To Mr. Will. Stephens, At the Preaching-house, In Cardiff. To John Valton LONDON, October 31, 1788. MY DEAR BROTHER, -- Whoever they were written by the rules are excellent rules; and I should have no objection to your printing them in the manner you mention. One thing is certain, that it would be some advantage to the poor printer; and it is probable that the rules would be useful to a serious reader. I think if you used decoction of nettles every morning (if you have not done it already) it might restore your strength. --I am, with love to Sister Valton, Your affectionate friend and brother. To Peter Mill [22] [October 1788.] DEAR PETER, -- Alter that vile plan of yours so that the poor people at [Haworth] may have preaching every Sunday morning at nine; and put down the chanting at Shields; and show that you regard Your affectionate friend and brother. To Thomas Carlill [23] [Noveraber 1788.] DEAR TOMMY, -- We have suffered much inconvenience by taking in more preachers than we were able to keep, or indeed to employ, without their staying in one place longer than was good either for them or for the people. And this is a wrong time of year to send out young preachers, especially into the fens of Lincolnshire. You must therefore make the best shift that you can till towards spring. I am glad to hear that you go on in love and peace with each other. All our brethren should pray fervently and continually for the King. Nothing but the mighty power of God can restore him. -- I am, dear Tommy, Your affectionate friend and brother. To Peter Mill [24] LONDON, November [3 or 4], 1788.