Letter

To Sarah Crosby (June 14, 1757)

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To Sarah Crosby

1This is the first surviving letter from JW to Mrs. Sarah Crosby (1729–1804; maiden name unknown), although it alludes to earlier correspondence. Crosby became one of JW’s most prolific correspondents, with at least twenty letters from JW to her surviving, beginning with this one and ending with a letter in June 1789. Crosby was drawn into the Wesleyan revival under JW’s preaching and joined the Foundery society in London in 1750 (see her autobiographical letter to JW, Aug. 7, 1757). In early 1757 Crosby met Mary Bosanquet, the beginning of a long friendship and shared ministry. Both women became prominent female preachers among Wesley’s followers, with Crosby pioneering the way.

Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
June 14, 1757

My Dear Sister,

I was concerned at not hearing from you for so long a time, whereas I would not willingly pass a fortnight without it. Whenever you have leisure write, whether any one else does or not. I shall be here near three weeks, and then at York. It comforts me to hear that your love does not decrease. I want it to increase daily. Is there not height and depth in him with whom you have to do, for your love to rise infinitely higher and to sink infinitely deeper into him than ever it has done yet? Are you fully employed for him, and yet so as to have some time daily for reading and other private exercises? If you should grow cold, it would afflict me much. Rather let me always rejoice over you. As for me, I seem only to be just beginning to aim feebly at God, though I have found more liberty in the respects you mention lately than of a long season.

Dear Sally, never forget to pray for, Your affectionate brother,
John Wesley

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Entry Title: To Sarah Crosby (June 14, 1757)

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