Page 611
To rely upon Gods blessing notwithstanding all opposition. [ 1789]
WHen an Alderman of London was given to understand by a Courtier,* 1.1 that the King in his displeasure against the City, threatned thence to divert both Term and Parliament to Oxford; he asked, Whether he would turn thither the channel of the Thames, or no? if not, said he, by the grace of God we shall do well enough. Thus when either Envy of meaner Men repi••eth, or the Anger of greater persons rageth against our lawful thriving, we shall do well to re∣member,* 1.2 That there is a River which shall make glad the City of God; a cur∣rent (I mean) of Gods blessings, which whilest he vouchsafeth to our honest la∣bours, and legal Callings, no malice of Man or Devill shall be able to stop or avert; For, whilest this blessed River of God keeps its course, we shall do well enough; but if his hand for our Sins turn it aside (as it were) into another channell, no wonder then if we thrive backwards, if we prosper not in the labour of our hands.