Copy letter from Blackheath, London, to Sally Wesley at the house of Miss Freeman in Bath, Somerset. He has just returned with Sally's friend and admirer Captain Swanwick from visiting that 'most amiable of men' Lord Dartmouth [William Legge].
Sally has cause to be alarmed for their friend Miss Freeman as Charles has always thought that the bath would do her mischief, as its waters are not of the 'natural kind' and if drank or bathed in without great judgement they can do harm. One honest physician in the town, who she may consult is Dr Harrington. When she is in London, Charles can recommend Dr Turner for treating a patient 'with very little physick' - he has added thirty years to Charles's life.
He is not surprised at Sally's affection for the city of Bristol. Had Thomas Lewis lived, Charles would have spent the rest of his life there, and still he pines for the place. But Sally's brothers 'forbid' [to move away from London], and her mother must remain to look after them.
Miss Chapman and Miss Morgan are exactly as Charles would wish his daughter to be, and God who made them what they are would be willing to effect the same change in her. Spiritual matters are discussed.
She should 'bid Mr Hemings to open the future S W letters to you'.
New Chapel 18 July
They passed a good day yesterday with Mr Smith in Peckham [London]. If Sally were here her father would introduce her to several families, who might do her some good.
Friday evening
They returned from Pimlico to find Sally's letter waiting, announcing her return with Miss Freeman to London.
Note
- Publication Record: Quoted extensively by Thomas Jackson in The Journal of the Rev. Charles Wesley (1849), Volume 2, pp.282-283.