character (I think the true old Hebrew), the alphabet whereof you may learn in a day’s time, either from the Prolegomena in Walton’s Polyglot, or from his grammar.  In a twelvemonth’s time, sticking close to it in the forenoons, you will get twice through the Pentateuch; for I have done it four times the last year, and am going over it the fifth, collating the Hebrew and two Greek, the Alexandrian and the Vatican, with what I can get of Symmachus and Theodotian, etc.  Nor shall you lose your reward for it, either in this or the other world.

In the afternoon read what you will, and be sure to walk an hour, if fair, in the fields.  Get Thirlby’s Chrysostom De Sacerdotio; master it—­digest it.  I like your verses on Psalm lxxxv., and would not have you bury your talent.  All are well and send duties.

Work and write while you can.  You see Time has shaken me by the hand, and Death is but a little behind him.  My eyes and heart are now almost all I have left; and bless God for them.  I am not for your going over-hastily into Orders.  When I am for your taking them, you shall know it.

Your affectionate father,
Sam.  Wesley.

3.  From Mrs. Wesley to her son John.

February 25th, 1725.

Dear Jackey,—­I was much pleased with your letter to your father about taking Orders, and like the proposal well; but it is an unhappiness almost peculiar to our family that your father and I seldom think alike.  I approve the disposition of your mind and think the sooner you are a deacon the better, because it may be an inducement to greater application in the study of practical divinity, which I humbly conceive is the best study for candidates for Orders.  Mr. Wesley differs from me, and would engage you (I believe) in critical learning; which, though accidentally of use, is in no wise preferable to the other.  I dare advise nothing:  God Almighty direct and bless you!  I long to see you.  We hear nothing of Hetty, which gives us some uneasiness.  We have all writ, but can get no answer.  I wish all be well.  Adieu.

Susanna Wesley.

4.  From the Rev. Samuel Wesley to his son John.

Wroote, March 13, 1724-5.

Dear Son,—­I have both yours, and have changed my mind since my last.  I now incline to your going this summer into Orders.  But in the first place, if you love yourself or me, pray heartily.  I will struggle hard but I will get money for your Orders, and something more.  Mr. Downes has spoken to Mr. Morley about you, who says he will inquire of your character.

“Trust in the Lord, and do good, and verily thou shalt be fed.” 
This, with blessing, from your loving father,

Samuel Wesley.

5.  From Emilia Wesley to her brother John.

Wroote, April 7th, 1725.