From William Smith in Newcastle, to [Joseph] Benson at the Preaching House in Halifax, Yorkshire. The health of his wife [Jane] and daughter [Mary] have improved to the extent that they are now able to leave the house.
He wrote to Mr Ward concerning Benson's business affairs, and received the reply that Ward 'has no money in hand due to you', but that £20 in rent is overdue from February.
Smith feels that Benson's business affairs justify a personal visit. Benson should let him know of his intended time of arrival, at which time he will hand over the £4 made from the sale of Benson's sermons.
They were recently disturbed to hear of [John] Wesley's serious illness, from which he has now recovered. Smith does not know if Wesley still intends visiting Ireland, but hopes that 'if his life is lengthened out….it may be employed to better purpose than building another Preaching House at Birstall. When this our Elijah is indeed taken from us what will become of [missing word or phrase] of the laws of the Prophets. Some of them will [missing word or phrase] not espoused such and such measures'.
He has recently spoken with Benson's brother in law, who informs him that the family are all well, and are now living in Durham. [The dispute of 1782 concerning the new chapel in Bistall, Yorkshire, arose from what was seen in many quarters, as the excessive powers granted in the deed to the trustees, with regard to the appointment and displacement of preachers. Source: general Methodist historical works]