Letter

Scope and Content

From Ludlow, Shropshire, to John Bennet at Chinley End near Chapel-en-le-frith in Derbyshire. Both Charles and Sarah look forward to seeing John and his wife Grace in God's due course, and indeed Sarah hopes to see them sooner, although it is uncertain whether she will be able to accompany her husband on his long journey.

Charles is now leaving for Bristol, from where in a month's time he will set off for London. The uncertainty of John Wesley's movements keeps Charles in suspense - if John stays in Ireland for any period of time Charles will have 'to hover betw Bristol & London'. He should know in about a month when he will be able to travel to the north of England.

Their many commitments may have compelled the Wesleys to neglect the north, but they can only be in one place at a time. Charles does not know if exhorters could have been sent more often to assist Bennet, for he is not responsible for their disposition, but he is sure that 'my brother makes the most of them; & disposes of them more wisely than I or you cd do'. Charles assumes that the great reliance that J W places on Bennet with regard to the north, is testimony to the regard that he has for him. Bennet should not feel discouraged, for God will in his own time provide the fellow-workers needed.

The report that Bennet has been suspended from the Connexion, is most certainly untrue. As for the 'old affair'[John Wesley's engagement to Grace Murray] there is no reason why that should be mentioned again.

The curiosity of Mrs G cannot be helped, but neither should it be gratified 'for one event might turn more than her back to the world'.

Reference is made to Grace's pregnancy.

In a postscript, he says that Sarah has asked him to make an excuse for her not writing to Grace, 'but tis more than I can do'.

Note

  • Publication Record: Quoted by Dr Frank Baker in Charles Wesley - As Revealed by his Letters (1948), pp.79-80.

Note

Note

  • Publication Record: Quoted by Dr Frank Baker in Charles Wesley - As Revealed by his Letters (1948), pp.79-80.