Letter 535

It cannot be doubted but your heaviness was owing in part to diabolical agency. Nay, and Satan sometimes, by God’s permission, weakens the body. Nevertheless, we are, even in that weakness, to use natural means, just as if it was owing to natural causes. I believe it would be of use, if you took a cup-full of the decoction of burdock (sweetened or unsweetened) both morning and evening. I never remember its having any ill effect on any person whatsoever.

Our point is, to improve by everything that occurs: By good or ill success, so called; by sickness or health; by ease or pain: And this we can do, through Christ strengthening us. We know chance is an empty sound: The Lord sitteth on his throne, and ruleth all things well. Love him, trust him; praise him.

My dear sister,

Your affectionate brother.

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DXXXV. — To Mr. Alexander Hume, Peeltown, Isle of Man.

MY DEAR BROTHER, BRISTOL, September 22, 1775.

I REJOICE to hear that God has made Mr. Crook’s labor of love profitable to some of you, and cannot blame you for desiring to have him with you a little longer. I will write to Mr. Mason, the Assistant at Whitehaven, that Mr. Crook is coming to be a third Preacher in that Circuit. The three Preachers may then visit the Isle, month by month; so that you will have Mr. Crook one month in three. They will all teach you, that religion is holy tempers and holy lives; and that the sum of all is love. I am

Your affectionate brother.