1761 JOHN FAWCETT. Rare Autograph Letter and Fine Biography of Important Baptist Divine.

A lovely 2pp bifolium ALS entirely in the hand of important Baptist divine, John Fawcett, when just 21 years old; together with a handsome biography of Fawcett, including an account of the revivals in Yorkshire and Lancashire. 

The letter, written when Fawcett had been a follower of Christ for just 5 years and who was just 21 years of age, was written perhaps during the period where he was transitioning from his early affiliation with the Methodists, after his conversion under George Whitefield, to to that of the Baptist church. Julian [the hymn historian] notes that he was with the Methodists three years, but it is not clear if that was from the time of his conversion, which would make him a Baptist at the time of this writing, or from some time of more formal affiliation with the Methodists

"Bradford, October 14, 1761

To H. Laycock & E. Marshall,

Dear Sisters in Christ,

 In pursuance to my promise, and compliance with your desire, I have now set pen to paper to write unto you. I shall not trouble you with useless compliments, but, as I am able, give you some brief account of the Lord's dealings with my soul, which I suppose will be as profitable to me, and as acceptable to you, as anything that I can write. And, to be short, my case at present, I think, is as follows:

. . . so far as I can judge for myself, as earnest a desire after holiness, and a conformity to the image of Christ, as ever I did since I knew the Lord. I do not more earnestly desire to be made happy in heaven hereafter, than I desire to be made holy here. I often rejoice in those words of the Apostle, that we were predestined to be conformed to the image of Christ. And this is one of the solid pillars upon which my hope and confidence rest. 

I think also that I am more and more settled and satisfied in regard to the reality of the good work being begun in my soul, according to that glorious declaration, which I hope I have found verified in some measure, Hosea 6.3. I also find very earnest desire that the work of the Lord and go forward in every place. O how earnestly do I long and earnestly wish for the conversion of sinners to God, for the prosperity of my own soul as well as the souls of all my brethren, and those very near and dear friends with whom I have acquaintance. That God would preserve those who have begun well, from that prevailing lukewarmness and those dreadful errors both in principle and practice, which so many fall into, that they may be helped to act an exemplary part whilst they are on the stage of life, and to make an honourable exit! And I hope I can say that as I desire these things so I would use all diligence in seeking after them, Psalm 27.4.

I find my faith much strengthened to believe that what so ever I ask the Father, agreeable to His will, He will do it for, or bestow it upon me, as John 16.23. I think also for these few days, that my experience has been much like that of David, which he has recorded in Psalm 23, which you may read at your leisure. But that I may not be tedious, I shall add no more at present, but shall desire your prayers and promise you mine. And as soon as you have opportunity, should be glad to have a little on the Lord's dealings with you. 

I am
Your very unworthy
Brother in the best bonds,
John Fawset

p.s. My sincere and grateful respects to your worthy pastor, to Miss Kenyon, and Miss Betty Marshall and other Friends."

An Account of The Life, Ministry, and Writings of the late Rev. John Fawcett, D.D. who was Minister of the Gospel of Fifty-Four Years, first at Wainsgate, and afterwards at Hebden Bridge, in the Parish of Halifax; Comprehending Many Particulars Relative to The Revival and Progress of Religion in Yorkshire and Lancashire; and Illustrated by Copious Extracts from the Diary of the Deceased, from his Extensive Correspondence, and Other Documents. London. P. K. Holden. 1818. 429pp. 

Original half calf with cloth boards, raised bands and lettering to spine. Rubbed, but very solid and attractive. A rare biography and very scarce and important Baptist autograph letter with good autobiographical and spiritual content.