John Berridge, Everton, to Richard Woodgate, Chatham, 16 September 1775.

Dear Sir

               I recd your Letter of the 7th, which requires a deliberate answer, not an hasty one; and a more judicious Head, than I am possessed of.  The Scripture commands us to abide in that vocation, wherein we are called; and I have not known many succeed, who have left their calling, and taken Ordination either among the Clergy or Dissenters: yet some have succeeded, and therefore I dare not make a general rule universal. The unanimous Call of Mr Hugh’s Congregation, & the late abridgment of your Privileges in the Dock-yard, together with the raising up of a young Man to supply your evangelical Place, seem to point out your way to Mr Hugh’s Congregation.  I dare not say more, than seem to point out.  Make the Matter clear to yourself by Prayer & Waiting, & the Lord direct your Path.  However, I should think it advisable, not to quit the Dock-yard, till you are really ordained, & set down in the Congregation.  Kind Respects to Mrs Woodgate, & to all Xtian Friends.  Grace & Peace & the Spirit’s Guidance be with you, & with your affectionate Servant

                                                                     John Berridge

Text:  Joseph Angus Collection, acc. no. Angus 168, Angus Library, Regent's Park College, Oxford. Postmarked from Biggleswade.