“iT AN CLU~ BFUTITT © PUBLISHED BY CARLTON & PHILLIPS, 200 MULBERRY-STREET 1854, THE LIFE OF THE REV. JOHN W. DE LA FLECHERE: COMIILED FROM THE NARRATIVE OF REV. MR. WESLEY; THE BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES OF REV. MR. GILPIN; as FROM HIS OWN LETTERS, * AND OTHER AUTHENTIC DOCUMENTS, MANY OF WHICH WERE NEVER BEFORE PUBLISHED. BY JOSEPH BENSON. fy New-Dork: PUBLISHED BY CARLTON & PHIDLIPS, 900 MULBERRY-STREET 1854, PREFACE TO LIFE OF FLETCHER. Ir has long been the desire of many of Mr. Fletcher’s friends, to see a more full and complete account of that extraordinary man, than any that had appeared. Mr. Wesley’s Narrative of his life was drawn up in great haste, and in the midst of so many important labours and concerns of another kind, that it is not at all surprising it should contain some small mistakes, and in other re- spects, should be imperfect. Mrs. Fletcher never in- tended to write his Life, but only to give an account of his death, with a few particulars of his character. The Rev. Mr. Gilpin’s Biographical Notes, annexed to his translation of Mr. Fletcher Portrait of Saint Paul, are very excellent, and very accurate, as far as they go. But neither did Mr. Gilpin intend to write his Life, but simply to give some more traits of his character, and add a few anecdotes concerning him, which had been omitted by Mr. Wesley and Mrs. Fletcher. Add to this, that Mr. Gilpin’s Notes are scattered through that work without any order: .and, however useful, as detached pieces, do not, in any respect, furnish the reader with a regular and connected history of that great and good man. In consideration of these things, it has been judged, by his friends, to be a debt due to his memory, ‘and to the Christian world, to compile from the whole, and from such other documents as might be collected, such an authentic and properly arranged narrative of his life and death, as might be at once clear and sufficiently full, comprising every article of importance. Mrs. Fletcher, knowing that I had been particularly intimate with Mr. Fletcher from the year 1768, till his death, and that we had been in the constant habit of corresponding, earnestly desired I would undertake this work. And our general conference, held at Leeds in the year 1801, having Joined with her in the same request, I have, at length, complied, and am not without hope, that the. interests of pure and vital Christianity will be promoted by it. 4 PREFACE TO LIFE OF FLETCHER. This narrative includes the whole of what is material in the forementioned accounts, digested in regular ofder, together with much new matter, taken chiefly from Mr. Fletcher’s own letters to myself, and some other friends, especially to the Rev. Mr. Perronet, late of Shoreham, and some members of his family. Ihave found it to be peculiarly useful to myself to be employed about this work: and I pray God that every reader may obtain similar, and even greater benefit from it, and be induced to follow him as fully as he followed Christ. JoszuPH BENSON. Lonpon, October 25, 1804. PREFACE TO LIFE OF FLETCHER. 5 PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION. THE editor is aware that he must chiefly ascribe it to he high esteem entertained by the public in general, and by the members of the Methodist societies in particular, for the character of the late Rev. Mr. Fletcher, and the great veneration in which his memory is held by them, . that the former impression of this work has had so rapid a sale, and that a second edition is so soon called for. He is, however, happy to find, by the testimonies he has received from different quarters, that the manner in which he has been enabled to execute his office of com- piler, has been highly satisfactory to Mr. Fletcher’s friends, and to the readers of the publication in general. It is true, the editors of a periodical work, termed the “Christian Observer,” have represented it as an im- perfection in its mode of compilation, that he did not ““weave the whole of his materials. into a completely new work.” But this, he must observe, was not the task assigned him; nor would he, if desired, have consented to undertake it, well knowing, both that it would require more time than he could have spared from his other, not less important employments, and that the work would gain nothing thereby in point of real usefulness. For he was well persuaded that he could not express the same things in his own words so well as the Rev. Messrs. Wesley and Gilpin had expressed them, nor clothe the materials furnished by these truly pious and learned writers in more pure, elegant, and forcible lan- guage, than they had used.. He knew, therefore, that to have pursued the plan the conductors of that miscel- lany have suggested, would not have rendered the work more interesting, or more instructive to the reader, or in any respect better calculated to answer the great and important ends of religious biography, which are not to gain honour and applause to the writer; but rather to excite and animate the reader to greater zeal and dili 6 PREFACE TO LIFE OF FLETCHER. gence in pursuit of whatever excellence might be de- scribed or exemplified in the subject of it. Add to this, he was sensible it was not the wish of any of the parties by whom he was pressed into this service, that the nar- ratives of. Messrs. Wesley and Gilpin should be super- seded and lost sight of. He knew it was rather their desire, that these well written, though incomplete ac- counts should be brought forward afresh into public view, preserved and perpetuated, by being incorporated in one volume, with such other materials as might be collected; thereby furnishing the public with such a elear and full history of that incomparable man as might be of lasting use to the Church of Christ, and a mean of edifi- cation to thousands yet unborn. , | But “the natural consequence of this mode of compi- lation,” say they, ‘is, that the work is defective in clear- ness and uniformity, and that itis occasionally prolix and redundant.” As to prolixity and redundance, the editor is under no concern. The persons for whose use chiefly he undertook to compile this volume, have such venera- tion for the memory of Mr. Fletcher, that any informa- tion concerning him that is authentic, and at all instruct- ive, or calculated to cast light upon his character, is peculiarly welcome; although to readers less apprised of his worth, it might appear unnecessary, or even super- fluous. Under a persuasion of this, at the same time that the editor has corrected two ‘or three important mistakes, inadvertently made in the former impression, he has enlarged the narrative still more in the present publication, by inserting several anecdotes, original let- ters, and other communications which had not come to hand when his manuscript for the first edition was sent to the press. / But as to this point of prolizity, the Christian Observ- ers themselves have formed his apology.. “Itis but fair to observe, (say they,) as to this volume, that, as it was evidently intended chiefly for the perusal of the followers of Mr. Wesley, who are almost universally great admirers of Mr. Fletcher, the editor might not think it necessary to pay so much regard, in the construction of his work, to perspicuity of arrangement and elegance of manner as to the minuteness of his details, and the abundance of his matter.” This statement, bating the unmerited PREFACE TO LIFE OF FLETCHER. 4 insinuation contained in it against the followers of Mr. Wesley as persons who have less taste than their neigh- bours for order ‘and elegance in composition, the editor acknowledges to be pretty near the truth. He owns he did pay, and thought it his duty'to pay, much more attention to the matter than to the form and manner of his work. He paid, however, considerable“attention to the latter also, and ventures to say, while it has all the elegance which the fine pens of Messrs. Gilpin, Wesley, and Fletcher could give it, the greatest part of its con- tents being expressed in their words, it has all the per- spicuity and clearness which “an arrangement accord- ing to the date of the events,”’ could bestow—an arrange- ment which these observers themselves acknowledge to have been attended to. . As to uniformity, it has what is quite sufficient for-a work of the kind; a uniformity, not indeed of language, the simple and laconic style of Mr. Wesley differing very ‘materially from the diffuse and florid manner of Mr. Gil- pin and the copiousness of Mr. Fletcher; but, what is infinitely more important, a uniformity of testimony, re- specting the amiable and excellent subject of the narra- tive, and that blessed Gospel which he preached, which he lived, and which his. most eminent gifts and graces highly adorned. It is also uniform as to its design, and it is hoped that all its parts co-operate to produce the important effect intended, and that is, to induce every reader to follow Mr. Fletcher as he followed Christ. In short, the editor believes that he has pursued the best plan which he could have chosen, in order to trace, exhibit, and attest, from the mouths of different witnesses, Mr. Fletcher’s character and conduct through every period of his life ; and to give the reader at once a clear and full view of his progressive wisdom, piety, and usefulness, and especially of that heavenly and divine mind whereby he was prepared for the great and glori- ous reward awaiting him in the kingdom of his Father. But without entering farther into the examination of what he cannot but think to be the unkind and illiberal remarks, contained in the forementioned publication, on these two most eminently useful men, the Rev. Messrs. Wesley and Fletcher, and on the Methodists in general ; as a.proper contrast to their critique, and a confirmation 8 PREFACE TO LIFE OF FLETCHER. of the observations just made, the editor will now take the liberty of laying before the reader the judgment passed upon this work, by the conductors of two other periodical publications. Although no followers of Mr. Wesley, but persons of very different sentiments, as to some important points of Christian doctrine, neverthe- less they could not close their eyes to the uncommon piety and other excellences of the subject of this nar- rative. . ‘‘ Whatever difference of opinion,” say the editors of. . the Theological and Biblical Magazine, (see their num- ber for April, 1805,) “may be entertained respecting some important points of doctrine, which the late Mr. Fletcher publicly maintained, we believe that there is but one opinion as to the exalted piety of this eminent Christian. We have perused these memoirs with deep interest, and we hope also not without profit. His humility, disinterestedness, affection, zeal, and heavenly mindedness have, perhaps, been seldom equalled; and few, we believe, will rise from the perusal of the volume before us, without being ashamed of their own unpro- fitableness, and adoring the riches of Divine grace, which were so extraordinarily manifested to this man of God. While reading this account of Mr. Fletcher, we fre- quently called to mind the late most amiable Mr. Pearce, of Birmingham, whose life has been written by Mr. Ful- ler. There seems, indeed, to have been a very great resemblance in these two characters, both in the ardency of their Christian love, their entire devotedness to God, and the constant communion they held with the Father of spirits. We have not room for quotations, yet we feel strongly inclined to give a few expressions of his, which indicate great candour toward those who thought differently from him in some less important particulars of doctrine.’ After producing a passage to this pur- pose, which the reader will find in page 332, ‘“‘ God for- bid, &c.,”’ they add, “‘We, among many others, differ widely from Mr. Fletcher in some points of doctrine, but we cannot withhold our admiration of a character so truly lovely and exalted. Mr. Benson has performed his part, in collecting the materials for this Life of Mr. Fletcher in a very respectable manner.” The following sentences are transcribed from the PREFACE TO LIFE OF FLETCHER. 9 Eclectic Review for June, 1805, in which this work is considered at large: “There have been some, in most ages of Christianity, and in most countries where it is professed, who have emulated its primitive and genuine excellence. Among these exalted few, the subject of the biography before us is unquestionably to be ranked. In whatever period he had lived, to whatever department of Christians he had belonged, he would have shone in the religious hemisphere, as a star of the first magni- tude.” After giving, from the volume, a general out- line of his history, they add, ‘We must refer to the narrative of his short illness, given by Mrs. Fletcher, and to an ample character of him previously introduced, for a more adequate idea of this excellent man than we can attempt to impart. It was deemed preferable to give the preceding outline, rather than extracts of the work, as those (parts) which describe the more striking scenes of Mr. Fletcher’s life have formerly been printed. Mr. Benson has very judiciously connected and com- pleted, either from his own knowledge, or authentic documents, the detached accounts which had appeared in various publications.” After mentioning a few pas- sages, by the omission of which, and by the accession of Mr. Fletcher’s character, as a tutor and as a writer, the authors of the Eclectic Review think the volume might be amended, they add, *“* We can cordially recommend it, in its present state, to serious and candid Christians, of every variety of form and sentiment: and it would greatly surprise us, should any person of this descrip- tion rise up from the perusal of it, and assert that it had not afforded him pleasure and improvement.” Tue Eprror. 1* 10 PREFACE TO LIFE OF FLETCHER. REV. MR. WESLEY’S PREFACE TO THE READER. No man in England has had so long an acquaintance with Mr. FLetcuer as myself. Our acquaintance began almost as soon aw his arrival in London, about the year 1752, before he entered into holy orders, or (I believe) had any such intention. And it continued uninterrupted between thirty and forty years, even till it pleased God to take him to himself. Nor was ours a slight or ordi- nary acquaintance ; but we were of one heart and of one soul. We had no secrets between us for many years; we did not purposely hide any thing from each other. From time to time he consulted me, and I him, on the most important occasions. And he constantly professed, not only much esteem, but (what I valued far more) much affection. He told me, in one of his letters, (I doubt not from his heart,) c “ Tecum vivere amen ; tecum obeam lubens: ‘With thee I gladly would both live and die.” I therefore think myself obliged, by the strongest ties,. to pay this small tribute to his memory. But you may easily observe that, in doing this, I am little more than acompiler. For I owe a great, if not the greatest part of the ensuing tract to a few friends, who have been at no small pains in furnishing me with materials: and above ali, to my dear friend, (such she has been almost from her childhood,) Mrs. Fletcher. I could easily have altered both hers and their language, while I retained their sentiments. But I was conscious I could not alte: it for the better: and I would not alter for altering’s sake: but judged it fairest to give you most of theia accounts very nearly in their own words. AmstTerpam, September 12, 1786. THE LIFE OF THE REV. JOHN WILLIAM DE LA FLECHERE. CHAPTER I. Of his parentage and youth. Joun Wittiam De La Fuecuere, (this was properly his name,) was born at Nyon, in Switzerland, ( Wesley’s Life of Fletcher,) a town about fifteen miles north of Geneva, on September the twelfth, in the year 1729. His father was an officer in the French service, till he left the army in order to marry. But after a time, he returned to the same line of life, and was a colonel in the militia of his own country. Of this gentleman, whose family is one of the most respectable in the canton of Berne, and a branch of an earldom of Savoy, Mr. Fletcher was the youngest son. ~ 2. He passed the early part of his life at Nyon, (Gilpin’s Notes, subjoined to Fletcher’s Portrait of St. Paul,) where he soon discovered an elevated turn of mind, ac- companied with an unusual degree of vivacity. After having made a good proficiency in school learning, he was removed with his two brothers to Geneva, where he was distinguished equally by his superior abilities and his uncommon application. The first two prizes for which he stood a candidate he carried away from a number of competitors, several of whom were nearly related to the professors: and on these occasions he was complimented by his superiors in a very flattering manner. During his residence at Geneva, he allowed himself but little time, either for recreation, refreshment, or rest. After con- fining himself closely to his studies all the day, he would frequently consume the greater part of the night in noting down whatever had occurred, in the course of his read- ing, worthy of observation. Here he acquired that true classical taste which was so frequently and justly ad- mired by his intimate friends, and which all his studied plainness could never conceal. Here also he laid the 12 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. foundation of that extensive and accurate knowledge for which he was afterward distinguished, both in philoso- phical and theological researches. After quitting Geneva, he was sent by his father to Lentzbourg, a small town in the Swiss cantons, where he not only acquired the Ger- man language, but diligently prosecuted his other studies, to which he ever discovered a passionate attachment. On his return from this place he continued some time at home, studying the Hebrew language, and perfeéting his acquaintance with mathematical. learning. 3. His early piety was equally remarkable with his early attainments. From his childhood he was impress- ed with a deep sense of the majesty of God, and a constant fear of offending him, and manifested great tenderness of conscience, as appears by the following instances. One day having offended his father, who threatened to correct him, he did not dare to come into his presence, but retired into the garden: and when he saw him coming toward him, he ran away with all speed. But he was presently struck with deep remorse, and said to himself, ‘« What! do I run away from my father? Perhaps I shall live to have a son that will run away from me!’ And it was several years before the impression which he then re- ceived was worn off. . 4. Another instance of his. tenderness of conscience occurred when he was about seven years of age. He was one day reproved by the nursery maid, saying, “ You are a naughty boy. Do you not know that the devil is to take away all naughty children?” He was no sooner in bed, than he began to reflect very. deeply upon her words. He thought, “I amanaughty boy. And how do I know but God may let the devil take me away this night.” He then got up, fell down upon his knecs before God, and prayed earnestly for a considerable time, till he - felt:such a sense of the Divine love as quieted every fear. He then lay down in peace and safety. 5. Mr. Fletcher’s early acquairitance with the Holy Scriptures guarded him, on the one hand, from the snares of infidelity, and preserved him, on the other, from many of the vices peculiar to youth. His conversation was modest, and his whole conduct marked with a degree of rectitude not usually-to be found in early life. He mani- fested an extraordinary turn for religious meditation: and LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 13 those little productions which gained him the greatest ap- plause, at this period, were chiefly of a serious tendency. His filial obedience and brotherly affection were exem- plary; nor is it remembered that he ever uttered one unbecoming expression in either of those characters. He was a constant reprover of-sin; and his modest freedom in this respect is said once to have offended a mother he tenderly loved. While she was, on some occasion, ex- presSing herself in too warm a-manner to one of the family, he turned his eye upon her with a gentle reproof. She was displeased with the modest reprehension, and: repaid it with some severity, which he received with the utmost submission, making only the following reply: «“When I am smitten on one cheek, and especially by a hand T love so well, I am taught to turn the other also.” This expression was not employed with an air of bravado, but with a look of so much tender affection that the in- dignation of his mother was instantly turned into a look of pleasing admiration. 6. Persons who are designed by the Almighty.for emi- nent services in his Church are frequently distinguished in their youth by striking peculiarities, which awaken in those around them an expectation of something extra- ordinary in their future character. Of this kind was the following circumstance. During Mr. Fletcher’s residence at Geneva, his sister, Madame de Botens, who had taken a house in that city for the convenience of her brothers, was visited by a widow lady from Nyon. This lady was accompanied by her three sons, who were not the most happily disposed, and whose improper conduct at this time provoked her to so uncommon a degree as to ex- tort from her a hasty imprecation. Mr. Fletcher, who was present upon this occasion, was so struck with the unnatural carriage of this exasperated mother that, in- stantly starting from his chair, he addressed her in a very powerful remonstrance. He reasoned with her in an affecting and pointed manner. He observed and lament- ed the difficulties of her situation; but entreated her to struggle against them with discretion, and not with impa- tience. He exhorted her to educate her children in the fear of God, and to second such education by her own pious example. After assuring her that her conduct on the present occasion had filled him with the utmost horror, 14 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. -and that he could not but tremble for the consequences _of it, he concluded his address by alarming her fears, lest the imprecation she had uttered should be followed by some unexpected family affliction. That same day the widow, in her return to Nyon, embarked upon the lake, where she was overtaken with a tremendous storm, and brought to the very point of perishing. In the midst of her danger, the words of her young prophet, as she ever -afterward termed Mr. Fletcher, were deeply impfessed upon her mind. But they shortly returned upon her in a most forcible manner, with the melancholy intelligence, that two of her sons were lost upon the lake, and the third crushed to death at one*of the gates of Geneva. At this time Mr. Fletcher was not more than fourteen years ofage. 7% While Mr. Fletcher was yet a youth, his life was sundry times in imminent danger, but was mercifully pre- served. One day, as he informed Mrs. Fletcher, he and his elder brother, being about to exercise themselves in fencing, had taken real, instead of. wooden swords, with -buttons fixed upon the points of them. His brother making a hard push at him, the button upon the point of his sword split in two, and the sword entered Mr. Fletcher's side, near his bowels, and gave him so deep a wound that he carried the scar of it to his grave. At another time, he and his brother went upon the lake of Geneva in a little boat, and rowed forward till, being out of sight of land, they knew not what way they were going, nor whether they were approaching or removing farther from the shore from which they had set out. The evening now came on, and it was beginning to grow dark, and as they were proceeding toward the middle of the Jake, in all probability they would have been lost, had it not providentially happened that, in consequence of some news arriving in town, the bells began to ring. They could but just hear them, but were soon convinced that instead of rowing to land, as they had intended, they had been proceeding farther and farther from it. Making now toward the quarter from which they perceived the sound to come, they found they had just strength enough left to reach the shore. 8. To these accounts of his remarkable preservation given by himself to Mrs. Fletcher, 1 shall add some still more remarkable, which he gave to Mr. Samuel Webb, of LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 15 London, then residing at‘Madeley, as related in the short Narrative of his Life and Death, published. by the Rev. Mr. Wesley. ‘‘ When I was a lad, I had a design to get some fruit out of my father’s garden. ” The door being locked, I could not get in, but by climbing over the wall. This was very high; but with some difficulty I got to the top of it. As I was walking upon it, my foot slipped, and I fell dowy to the bottom. But just where I fell, a large quantity of fresh-made mortar was laid. I fell exactly upon it. This broke my fall, orit might have cost me my life.” Again. “Once as I was swimming by myself in a deep water, one end of a strong riband which bound my hair, getting loose, I know not how, and twisting about my leg, tied me as it were neck and heels. I strove'with all my strength to disengage myself; but it was to no purpose. No person being within call, I gave myself up for lost. But when [had given over struggling, the riband loosed of itself.” ‘‘ Another instance of the tender care which God had over me, was as follows: One evening I and four young gentlemen, in high spirits, made a solemn agreement with each other to swim next day to a rocky island, five miles distant from the shore. But this foolish adventure was-within a very little of costing us all our lives. I and another indeed did with great difficulty and hazard swim to the island. But when we came thither, the rock was so steep and smooth, that we could not-possibly climb up. After swimming around several times, and making many ineffectual efforts, we thought we must perish there. But at length one of us found a place, where he made a shift to crawl up. He then helped his companion. The others swam about half way, a boat then took them up, when they were just sinking. Ano- ther boat which he had ordered to follow us, afterward came and took us home.” 9. But the deliverance of which he gave an account in the year 1760, is yet more wonderful. ‘Some years since I lived ata place very near the river Rhine. In that part it is broader than the Thames at London bridge, and extremely rapid. But having been long practised in swimming, I made no scruple of going into it at any time. Only I was always careful to keep near the shore, that the stream might not carry me away. Once, how- 16 LIFE OF REV..J. FLETCHER ever, being less careful than usual, I was unawares drawn into the mid channel. The water there was extremely rough, and pouged along like a galloping horse. I en- - deavoured to Swim against it, but in vain, till I was hur- ried far from home. When I was almost spent, I reste. upon my back, and then looked about for a landing place, finding I must either land or sink. With much difheulty I got near the shore; but the rocks were so ragged and sharp that I saw, if I attempted to land there, [ should be torn in pieces. So I was constrained to turn again to the mid stream: at last, despairing of life, I was cheered by the sight of a fine smooth creek, into which I was swiftly carried by a violent stream. A building stood direetly across it, which I did not then know to be a powder mill. The last thing I can remember, was the striking of my breast against one of the piles whereon it stood. I then lost my senses, and knew nothing more, till I rose on the other side of the mill. When I came to myself I was in a calm ‘safe place, perfectly well, without any soreness or weariness at all. Nothing was amiss but the distance of my clothes, the stream having driven me five miles from the place where I left them. Many persons gladly welcomed me on shore: one gentleman, in particular, who said, ‘I looked when you went under the mill, and again when you rose on the other side. And the time of your being immerged among the piles, was exactly twenty minutes.’ ”’ But some will say, ‘‘ Why this was a miracle!” “Un- doubtedly,”’ observes Mr. Wesley, “it was. It was not a natural event; but a work wrought above the power of nature, probably by the ministry of angels.” | 10. After Mr. Fletcher had gone through the usual course of study at the university of Geneva, it was the desire of his parents that he should be a clergyman. “And as far as nature can furnish a man,” says Mr. Gilpin, “ for offices of a sacred kind, perhaps there never was a person better qualified to sustain the character of a minister of Jesus Christ, than Mr. Fletcher. His dis- position and habits, his sentiments and studies, his reve- rential awe of God, his insatiable thirst after truth, and his uncommon abhorrence of vice, gave his friends abundant reason to apprehend that he was marked, at an early age, for the service of the Church. Contrary, LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 17 however, to all expectation, and contrary to the first designs of his family, before he had arrived to the age of twenty, he manifested views of a very opposite na- ture. His theological studies gave place to the systems of Vauban and Cohorn, and he evidently preferred the camp to the Church. All the remonstrances ‘of his friends, on this apparent change in his disposition, were totally ineffectual; and, had it not been for repeated disappointments, he would have wielded another sword than that of the Spirit. Happily, his projects for the field were constantly baffled and blasted by the appoint- ments of that God who reserved him for a more import- ant scene of action. His choice of the army is, how- ever, to be imputed rather to principle than inclination. On the one hand, he detested the irregularities and vices to which a military life would expose him; on the other, he dreaded the condemnation he might incur by acquitting himself unfaithfully in the pastoral office. He conceived it abundantly easier to toil for glory in fields of blood than to labour for God, with unwearied perse- verance, in the vineyard of the Church. He believed himself qualified rather for military operations than for spiritual employments, and the exalted ideas he enter- tained of the holy ministry determined him to seek some other profession more adapted to the weakness of hu- manity, and he preferred being an officer in the army to all others.”’ : 11. Mr. Fletcher himself, in a letter to the Rev. Mr. Wesley, dated November 24, 1756, a few weeks before he took orders, partly confirms these observations of Mr. Gilpin, and partly assigns an additional reason why he then declined the sacred office of the ministry. ‘From ‘the time I first began to feel the love of God,” says he, “shed abroad in my soul, which was, I think, at seven years of age, I resolved to give myself up to him and to the service of his Church if ever I should be fit for it; but the corruption which is in the world, and that which was in my heart, soon weakened, if not erased, those ‘first characters which grace had written upon it. However, I went through my studies with a de- sizn of going into orders; but afterward, upon serious reflection, feeling I was unequal to so great a burden, and disgusted by the necessity I should be under to 18 LIFE OF REY. J. FLETCHER. subscribe the doctrine of predestination, I yielded-to the desire of those of my friends who would have me to go into the army... But just before I was quite engaged in a military employment, I met with such disappointments as occasioned my coming to England.” Add.to this, that he disapproved of the motives which had chiefly induced his parents to desire him to enter into the mi- nistry. ‘This appears from an observation which he made to Mrs. Fletcher one day, while he was showing ner a piece of painting which he had executed when he was about sixteen years of age. “I was then studying fortification,” said he, “‘ with a view to go into the army. Once, indeed, my friends having a prospect of obtaining preferment for me, wanted me to go into the Church. But that motive I thought by no means right, and there- fore still pursued my plan of being a soldier.”” So that, according to his own account, he at that time declined the ministry, for three reasons: Ist. Because he judged himself unqualified for so high and holy a.calling: 2dly. He scrupled subscribing the doctrine of predestination, which, it seems, he must have done to have taken orders in Switzerland; and, 3dly. He disapproved of under- dertaking so sacred an office as that of preaching the Gospel in order to obtain preferment, or with any worldly views whatever. 12. Not being able to gain the consent of his parents to his going into the army, according to Mr. Wesley, he went away to Lisbon. Here, it seems, he gathered a company of his own countrymen, accepted ofa captain’s commission, and engaged to serve the king of Portugal on board a man-of-war, which was just then getting” ready with all speed in order to sail to Brazil. He then wrote to his parents, begging them to send him a con- siderable sum of money. ‘Of this he expected to make a vast advantage. But they refused him. Unmoved by this, he determined to go without it as soon as the ship sailed. But in the morning the maid, waiting on him at breakfast, let the tea kettle fall, and so scalded his leg that he kept his bed for a considerable time after. During that time the ship sailed for Brazil. But it was observed that the ship was heard of no more. 13. His desire of being an officer in the army, Mr. Wesley tells us, continued after he returned from Lis- LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 19 bon. And when he was informed that his uncle, then a colonel in the Dutch service, had procured a commission for him, he joyfully set out for Flanders. But just at that time the peace was concluded ; and his uncle dying quickly after, his hopes were blasted, and he gave up all thoughts of being a soldier. And, being disengaged from all business, he thought it would not be amiss to spend a little time in England. d 14. Coming to the custom house in London with some other young gentlemen, none of whom could speak any English, they were treated with the utmost surliness and ill manners by some brutish custom-house officers. These not only took out and jumbled together all the things that were in their portmanteaus, but took away their letters of recommendation, telling them, “ All let- ters must be sent by the post.” It is justly observed by Mr. Wesley, that * they are such saucy and ill-manner- ed wretches as these who bring up an evil report on our nation. Britons might well be styled Hospztibus feri, if they were all like these vermin.” 15. From hence-they went to an inn; but here they were under another difficulty. As they spoke no Eng- lish they could not tell how to exchange their foreign into English money; till Mr. Fletcher, going to the door, heard a well dressed Jew talking French. He told him the difficulty they were under with regard to the ex- change of money. The Jew replied, “Give me your money and I will get it changed in five minutes.” Mr. Fletcher without delay gave him his purse, in which were ninety pounds. As soon as he came back to his company he told them what he had done. They all cried out with one voice, “Then your money is gone. You heed never expect to see a crown or a doit of it any more. Men are constantly waiting about the doors of these inns on purpose to take in young strangers.” Seeing no remedy, no way to help himself, he could only commend his cause toGod. And that was enough. Before they had done breakfast, in came the Jew and brought him the whole money. 16. Inquiring for a person who was proper to perfect him « the English tongue, (the rudiments of which he had begun to learn before he left Geneva,) he was re- commended to Mr. Burchell, who then kept a boarding 20 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. schoo] at South Mimms, in Hertfordshire. And when Mr. Burchell removed to Hatfield he chose to remove with him. All the time he was both at South Mimms and at Hatfield he was of a serious and reserved beha- viour; very different from that of the other young gen- tlemen who were his fellow students. Here he diligently studied both the English language and all the branches of polite literature. Meantime his easy and genteel behaviour, together with his eminent sweetness of tem- per, gained him the esteem as well as the affection of all that conversed with him. He frequently visited some of the first families in Hatfield, who were all fond of his conversation, so lively and ingenious, at the same time evidencing both the gentleman and the scholar. All this time he had the fear of God deeply rooted in his heart. But he had none to take him by the hand and lead him forward in the ways of-God. He stayed with Mr. Bur- chell about eighteen months, who loved him as his own son. i 17. Afterward one Mr. Decamps, a French minister, to whom he had been recommended, procured him the place of tutor to the two sons of Thomas Hill, Esquire, at Ternhall, in Shropshire. In the year 1752, he re- moved into Mr. Hill’s family, and entered upon the im- portant province of instructing the young gentlemen. He still feared God, but had not yet an experimental sense of his love. . Nor was he convinced of his own fallen state, till one Sunday evening a servant came in to make up his fire, while he was writing some music, who, looking at him with serious concern, said, “ Sir, I am sorry to see you so employed on the Loid’s day.” At first his pride was alarmed, and his resentment moved at being reproved by a servant. But upon reflection, he felt the reproof was just. He immediately put away his music, and from that very hour became a strict observer of the Lord’s day. 18. “I have heard,” says Mr. Wesley, “two very different accounts of the manner wherein he had the first notice of the people called Methodists. But I think it reasonable to prefer to any other that which I received from his own mouth. This was as follows :— ‘When Mr. Hill went to London to attend the par- liament, he took his family and Mr. Fletcher with him, . LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. - 21 While they stopped at St. Albans, he walked out into the town, and did not return till they were set out for _ London. A horse being left for him, he rode after, and overtook them in the evening. Mr. Hill asking him why he stayed behind, he said, ‘As I was walking, I met with a poor old woman, who talked so sweetly of Jesus Christ, that I knew not how the time passed away.’ ‘I shall wonder,’ said Mrs. H., ‘if our tutor does not turn Methodist by and by.’ ‘Methodist, madam,’ said he, ‘pray what is that?’ She replied, ‘ Why, the Methodists are a people that do nothing but pray: they are praying all day and all night.” ‘Are they?’ said he, ‘then by the help of God, I will find them out if they be above round.’ He did find them out not long after, and was admitted into the society. And from this time, when- ever he was in town, he met in Mr. Richard Edwards’ class. This he found so profitable to his soul, that he lost no opportunity of meeting. And he retained a pe- culiar regard for Mr. Edwards till the day of his death.” - CHAPTER I. Account of his conversion. ~ 1. Norwirustanpine the early appearance of piety in Mr. Fletcher, it is evident that he continued, for a long time, a perfect stranger to the true nature of Christianity. He was naturally of a high and ambitious turn, though his ambition was sufficiently refined for religious as well as scientific pursuits. He aspired after rectitude, and was anxious to possess every moral pérfection. He counted much upon the dignity of human nature, and was ambitious to act in a manner becoming his exalted ideas of that dignity. And here he outstripped the multitude in an uncommon degree. He-was rigidly just in his dealings, and inflexibly true to his word; he was a strict observer of his several duties in every relation of life; his sentiments were liberal, and his charity pro- fuse ; he was prudent in his conduct, and courteous in his deportment; he was a diligent inquirer after truth, and a strenuous advocate for virtue; he was frequent in sacred meditations, and was a regular attendant at public 22 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. a worship. Possessed of so many moral aceomplish- ments, while he was admired by his friends, it is no won- der that he should cast a look of self-complacency upon his character, and consider himself, with respect to his aitaigments in virtue, abundantly superior to the com- mon herd of mankind. But while.he was taken up in congratulating himself upon his own fancied eminence in piety, he was an absolute stranger to that unfeigr.ed sorrow for sin which is the first step toward the king- dom of God. It was not till after he had resided some time in England that he became experimentally acquaint- ed with the nature of true repentance. This, according to Mrs. Fletcher’s account, was in the following manner: 2. Meeting with a person who asked him to go and hear the Methodists, he readily consented, and from that time became more and more conscious that a change of heart was necessary to make him happy. He now began to strive with the utmost diligence, according to the light he had, hoping, by doing much, to render him- self acceptable to God. But one day hearing a sermon preached by a clergyman whose name was Green, he was convinced he did not understand the nature of saving faith. This conviction caused many reflections to arise in his mind. “Is it possible,” thought he, “ that I, who have always been accounted so religious, who have made divinity my study and received the premium of piety (so called) from the university for my writings on Divine subjects,—is it possible that I should yet be so ignorant as not to know what faith is ?”. But the more he examined himself, and considered the subject, the more he was convinced of the momentous truth. And beginning also to see his sinfulness and guilt, and the entire corruption and depravity of his whole nature, his hope of being able to reconcile himself to God by his own works began to die away. He sought, however, by the most rigor- ous austerities to conquer this evil nature, and bring into his-soul a heaven-born peace. But alas! the more he strove, the more he saw and felt that all his soul was sin. And now he was entirely at a loss what to do, be- ing conscious of his danger, and seeing no way to escape, till at last he discovered that nothing, except a revelation of the Lord Jesus to his heart, could make him a true believer. LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 23 3. But a few pages transcribed from a diary, written by his own hand, when he was about twenty-five years of age, will give the reader the best inférmation on this subject. “The 12th of January, 1755, I received the sacra- ment, though my heart was as hard as a flint. The fol- lowing day,I felt the tyranny of sin more than ever, and an uncommon coldness in all religious duties. I felt the burden of my corruptions heavier than ever; there was no rest in my flesh. I called upon the Lord, but with such heaviness as made me fear it was lost labour. The more I prayed for victory over sin, the more I was con- quered. Many a time did I take up the Bible to seek comfort, but not being able to read, I shut it again. The thoughts which engrossed my mind were generally these: Tam undone. Ihave wandered from God more thanever. Ihave trampled under foot the frequent con- victions which God was pleased to work in my heart. Instead of going straight to Christ, I have wasted my time in fighting against sin with the dim light of my reason, and the mere use of the means of grace; as if the means would do me good without the blessing and power of God. I fear my knowledge of Christ is only speculative, and does not reach my heart. I never had faith; and without faith it is impossible to please God. Therefore, all my thoughts, words, and works, however specious before men, are utterly sinful before God. And if I am not washed and renewed before I go hence, [am lost to all eternity. 4, “When I saw that all my endeavours availed no- thing toward conquering sin, I almost gave up all hope, and resolved to sin on, and go-to hel]. But I remember there was a sort of sweetness even in the midst of these abominable thoughts. If I go to hell, said I, I willserve God there: and since I cannot be an instance of his mercy in heaven, I will be a monument of his justice in hell: and if I show forth his glory one way or the other, I am content. But I soon recovered my ground. 1 thought Christ died for atu, therefore he died for me. He died to pluck such sinners as I am as brands out of the burning. And as I sincerely desire to be his, he will surely take re to himself—he will surely let me know, before I die, that he hath died for me, and will break 24 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. asunder these chains wherewith I am bound. If he leave me for a little while in this dreadful state, it is only to show me the depth of the misery he will draw me out of. I must then humble myself under his mighty hand, and he will lift me up in his appointed time. But then I thought, this, perhaps, may not be till my dying hour— and must I sin on fill then? How can I do this? But I thought again, my Saviour was about thirty-three years working out my-salvation; let me wait for him as long, and then I may have some excuse for my impatience. Does God owe me any thing? Is he bound to time and place? Dol deserve any thing at his hands but damna- tion? I would here observe that anger in particular seemed to be one of the sins I could never overcome. So I went on, sinning and. repenting, and sinning again; but still calling on God’s mercy through Christ. 5. “I was now beat out of all-my strong holds. I felt my helplessness, and lay at the feet of Christ. I cried, though coldly, yet I believe sincerely, ‘Save me, Lord, as a brang snatched out of the fire; give me justifying faith in thy blood; cleanse.me from my sins; for the devil will surely reign over me, until thou shalt take me into thy hand. I shall only be an instrument in his hand to work wickedness, until thou shalt stretch forth thine almighty arm, and save thy lost creature by free unme- rited grace.’ I seldom went to private prayer, but this thought came into my mind: This may be the happy hour when thou wilt prevail with God; but still I was disappointed. I cried to God; but my heart was so hard that I feared it did not go with my lips. I strove, but it was so coldly that often [had fits of drowsiness even in my prayers. When overcome with heaviness, I went to bed, beseeching God to spare me till next day, that I might renew my-wrestling with him till I should prevail. . 6. “On Sunday the 19th, in the evening, I heard an excellent sermon on these words, ‘Being justified by faith, we have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ.’ I heard it attentively, but my heart was not moved in the least; I was only still more convinced that I was-an unbeliever, that I was not justified by faith, and that till I was, I should never have peace with God. The hymn after the sermon suited the subject; but I could not join in singing it. So I sat mourning, while others LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 25 rejoiced in God their Saviour. I went home, still re- solving to wrestle with the Lord like Jacob, till I should become a prevailing Israel. : “T begged of God the following day to show me the wickedness of my heart, and to fit me for his pardoning mercy. I besought him to increase my convictions, for I was afraid I did not mourn enough for my sins. But I found relief in Mr, Wesley’s Journal, where I learned that we should not'build on what we feel; but go to Christ with all our sins, and all our hardness of heart. On the 21st, I began to write part of what filled my heart, namely, a confession of my sins, misery, and helplessness, together with a resolution to seek Christ, even unto death. But my business calling me away, I had no heart to resume the subject. In the evening I read the Scriptures, and found a sort of pleasure in see- ing a picture of my wickedness so exactly drawn in the third chapter of the Epistle to the Romans, and that of my condition in the seventh. And nowI felt some hope that God would carry on in me the work he had begun. “T often wished to be acquainted with some one who had been just in my state, and resolved to seek for one to whom I might unbosom my whole soul, and apply for advice. AsIhad heard that mourners sometimes found comfort in reading over any particular text of Scripture they opened upon, I opened the Bible once for that pur- pore: but I found nothing that gave me comfort, and so did it no more, for fear of tempting God. 7. “Thursday, my fast day, Satan beset me hard; I sinned, and grievously too. And now I almost gave up all hope. I mourned deeply, but with a heart as hard as ever. I was on the brink of despair, and continued, nevertheless, to fall into sin, as often as I was assaulted with temptation. But I must observe that all this while, though I had a clear sense of my wickedness, and of what I deserved ; and though I often thought that hell would be my portion, if God did not soon pity me, yet I never was much afraid of it. Whether this was owing to a secret hope lodged in my mind, or to hardness of heart, I know not; but I was continually crying out, ‘What stupidity! 1 see myself hanging as by a thread over hell! and yet I'am not afraid—but sin on! O what is man without the grace of God? a very devil in wiek- 26 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. edness, though inferior to him in experience and power.’ In the evening I went toa friend, and told him something of my present state; he endeavoured to administer com- fort, but it did noi suit my case; there is no peace toa ‘sinner unless it come from above: When we parted, he gave me some advice which suited my condition better ; ‘God (said he) is merciful; God loves you; and if he deny you any thing, it is for your good; you deserve nothingat his hands; wait then patiently for him, and never give up your hope.’ I went home resolved to fol- low his advice, though I should stay till death. 8. “I had purposed to receive the Lord’s Supper the following Sunday ; I therefore returned to my room, and looked out a sacramental hymn. I learned it by heart, and prayed it over many times, sometimes with heavi ness enough, at others with some devotion, intending to repeat it at the table. I thén went to bed, commend- ing myself to God with rather more hope and peace than Thad felt for some time. But Satan waked while] slept. I dreamed I had committed grievous and abominable sins ; I awoke amazed and confounded, and rising witha detestation of the corruption of my senses and imagina- tion, I fell upon my knees, and prayed with more faith and less wanderings than usual; and afterward went about my business with an uncommon cheerfulness. It was not long before I was tempted by my besetting sin, but found myself anew creature. My soul was not even ruffed. I took not much notice of it at first; but hav- ing withstood two or three temptations, and feeling peace in my soul, through the whole of them, I began to think it was the Lord’s doing. Afterward it was suggested to me that it was great presumption for such a sinner to hope for so great a mercy. However, I prayed I might not be permitted to fall into a delusion ;' but the more I prayed, the more I saw it was real. For though sin stirred all the day long, I always overcame it in the name of the Lord. , 9. “In the evening I read the experience of some of God’s children, and found my case agreed with theirs, and suited the sermon I had heard on justifying faith; so that my hope increased. I entreated the Lord to do to his servant according to his mercy, and take all the glory to himself. I prayed earnestly and with an hum- LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 27 ble assurance, though without great emotions of joy, that I might have dominion over sin, and peace with God ; not doubting but that joy and a full assurrance of faith would be imparted to me in God’s good time. I con- tinued calling upon the Lord for an increase of faith; for still I felt some fear of being in a delusion: and having continued my supplication till near one in the morning, I then opened my Bible on these words, Psa. lv, 22, ‘Cast thy burden on the Lord, and he shall sus- tain thee; he will not suffer the righteous to be moved.’ Filled with joy, I fell again on my knees to beg of God that I might always cast my burden upon him. I took up my Bible again, and opened it on these words, Deut. xxxi, ‘I will be with thee, I will not fail thee, neither forsake thee; fear not, neither be dismayed.’ My hope was now greatly increased; I thought I saw myself conqueror over sin, hell, and all manner of affliction. “With this comfortable: promise I shut up my Bible, being now perfectly satisfied. As I shut it, I cast my eye on’ that word, ‘Whatsoever you shall ask in my name, I will do it.’ So having asked grace of God to serve him till death, I went cheerfully to take my rest.” 10. So far we have Mr. Fletcher’s account, written with his own hand. To this I add what Mrs. Fletcher says she heard him speak concerning his experience at this time, viz., that he still continued to plead with the Lord to take more full possession of his heart, and sought with unwearied assiduity to receive a brighter manifestation of God’s love to his soul: till one day, as he was in earnest prayer, lying prostrate on his face be- fore the Lord, he had a view, by faith, of our Saviour hanging and bleeding on the cross, and at the same time these words were applied with power to his heart :— “Seized by the rage of sinful men, I see Christ bound, and bruised, and slain; ’Tis done, the martyr dies! His life to ransom ours, is given, And lo! the fiercest fire of heaven Consumes the sacrifice. “He suffers both from men and God, He bears the universal load . Of guilt and misery! ‘ He suffers to reverse our doom, " And lo, my Lord is here become The bread of life to me!” 28 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. Now all his bonds wer® broken: he breathed a purer air, and was able to say with confidence, “ The life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”” By means of this faith his soul was freed, and sin was put under his feet. Knowing in whom he had believed, he could tri- umph in the Lord, and praise the God of his salvation. 11. About this time Mr. Fletcher addressed an epistle to his brother, in which he gives a farther description of the change that had taken place in his own mind, in the following words :— “TI speak from experience. I have been successively deluded by all those desires which I here so sincerely reprobate, and‘sometimes I have been the sport of them allat once. This will appear incredible, except to those who have discovered that the heart of unregenerate man is nothing more than a chaos of obscurity, and a mass ' of contradictions. If you have any acquaintance with yourself, you will readily subscribe to this description of the human heart; and if you are without this ac- quaintance, then rest assured; my dear brother, that whatever your pursuit may be, you are as far from true happiness as the most wretched of men. The meteor you are following still flies before you; frequently it disappears, and never shows itself but to allure you to the brink of some unlooked-for precipice. “Every unconverted man must necessarily come under one or other of the following descriptions: he is either a voluptuary,a worldly minded person, or a Pharisatcal philosopher ; or, perhaps, like myself, he may be all of these at the same time: and, what is still more extraor- dinary, he may be so, not only without believing, but even without once suspecting it. Indeed, nothing is more common among men than an entire blindness to their own real characters. How long have I placed my happiness in mere chimeras! How often have I ground- ed my vain hopes upon imaginary foundations? I have been constantly employed in framing designs for my own felicity ; but my disappointments have been as frequent and various as my projects. In the midst of my idle reveries, how often have I said to myself, ‘Drag thy weary feet but to the summit of yonder eminence,—a situation beyond which the world has nothing to present LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 29 more adequate to thy wishes, and there thou shalt sit down in a state of repose.’ On my arrival, however, at the spot proposed; a sad discovery has taken place—the whole scene has appeared more barren than the valley Thad quitted ; and the point of happiness, which I lately imagined it possible to have touched with my finger, has presented itself at a greater distance than ever. “If hitherto, my dear brother, you have beguiled yourself with prospects of the same visionary nature, never expect to be more successful in your future pur- suits. One labour will only succeed another, making way for continual discontent and chagrin. Open your heart, and there you will discover the source of that painful inquietude, to which, by your own confession, you have been longa prey. Examine its secret recesses, and you will discover there sufficient proofs of the following . truths: The heart is deceitful above all things, and des- perately wicked. All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. The thoughts of man’s heart are only evil, and that continually. The natural man understandeth not the things of the Spirit of God. On the discovery of these and other important truths, you will be con- vinced that man is an apostate being, composed of a sensual, rebellious body, and a soul immersed in pride, self-love, and ignorance: nay, more, you will perceive it a physical impossibility that man should ever become truly happy till he is cast, as it were, into a new mould, and created a second time. ‘“‘ For my own part, when I first began to know my- self, I saw, I felt, that man is an.undefinable animal, partly of a bestial, and partly of an infernal nature. This discovery shocked my self-love, and filled me with the utmost horror. I endeavoured for some time to throw a palliating disguise over the wretchedness of my condi- tion; but the impression it had already made upon my heart was too deep to be erased. It was to no purpose that I reminded myself of the morality of my conduct. It was in vain that I recollected the many encomiums that had been passed upon my early piety and virtue. And it was to little avail, that I sought to cast a mist before my eyes by reasonings like these—if conversion implies a total change, who has been converted in these days? Why dost thou imagine thyself worse than thou 30 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. really art? Thou art a believer in God and in Christ: thou arta Christian: thou hast injured no person: thou art neither a drunkard nor an adulterer : thou hast dis- charged thy duties, not only in a general way, but with more than ordinary exactness: thou art a strict at- tendant at church: thou art accustomed to pray more regularly than others, and frequently with a good degree of fervour.- Make thyself perfectly easy. Moreover, Jesus Christ has suffered for thy sins, and his merit will supply every thing that is lacking on thy part. “It was by reasonings of this nature that I endea- voured to conceal from myself the deplorable state of my heart: and I am ashamed, my dear brother ; I repeat it, I am ashamed that I suffered myself so long to be delud- ed by the artifices of Satan, and the devices of my own heart. God himself has invited me, a cloud of apostles, prophets, and martyrs, have exhorted me, and my con- science, animated by those sparks of grace which are latent in every breast, has urged me to enter in at the strait gate, but notwithstanding all this, a subtle tempter, a deluding world, and a deceived heart, have constantly turned the balance, for above these twenty years, in favour of the broad way. Ihave passed the most lovely part of my life in the service of these tyrannical mas- ters, and am ready to declare in the face of the universe that all my reward has consisted in disquietude and re- morse. Happy had I been if I had listened to the earli- est invitations of grace, and broken their iron yoke from off my neck !”” : 12, From this time his hopes and fears, his desires and pursuits, were totally changes. (Gilpin’s Notes.) From the heights of self-exaltation, he sunk into the depths of self-abhorrence: and from shining in the fore- most ranks of the virtuous, he placed himself on a level with the chief of sinners. Convictions made way for unfeigned repentance, and repentance laid a solid foun- dation for Christian piety. His sorrow for sin was succeeded by a consciousness of the Almighty’s favour, and the pangs of remorse gave way to the joys of re- mission. Believing on Jesus, as the Scripture hath said, he found in him a well of consolation springing © up into everlasting life. All his wanderings were at once happily terminated, his doubts were removed, LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 31 his tears were dried up, and he began to rejoice in hope of the glory of God. His conversion was not imagi- nary, but real. It not only influenced his sentiments, but extended to his conduct. Whom he had found a Saviour, he determined to follow as a guide: and so unalterable was this determination that from the very hour in which it was formed, it is not known that he ever cast a wishful look behind him.. A cloud of wit- nesses are ready to testify that from his earliest acquaint- ance with the truths of the Gospel, he continued to walk worthy of his high vocation, growing in grace, and adorning the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. 13. From this period of his life-he became truly ex- emplary for Christian piety. We walked cheerfully, as well as valiantly, in the ways of God. He closely fol- lowed his Master, denying himself, and taking up his cross daily. And thinking he had not leisure in the day for the great work which he had in hand, he made it an invariable rule to sit up two whole nights in a week. These he dedicated to reading, meditation, and prayer, in order to enter more deeply into that communion with the Father and the ‘Son which was his delight. Mean- time he lived entirely on vegetable food, and for some. time on bread, with milk and water. Indeed one reason’ of his doing this was, that being threatened with a con- sumption in his early days, he had been advised by a physician to live on vegetables, and he now the more readily complied with the advice, because, by this mean, he avoided dining with the company at Mr. Hill’s table. Mrs. Fletcher observes that beside watching the two whole nights every week just mentioned, his custom was never-to sleep till he could no longer keep awake, and that therefore he always took a candle and book with him to bed. This imprudence had once almost cost him his life, if the calamity Wad stopped’ there, which it is probable it would not. For one night, being overcome with sleep before,he put out his candle, he dreamed that his curtain, pillow, and cap, were all on fire, but went out without doing him any harm. And truly so it was. For in-the morning, the curtain, pillow, and part of his cap, as also of the hymn book, in which he had been read- ing, were found burned. The hymn book, in part burned, Mrs. Fletcher has in her possession now. Nota hair, 32 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. however, of his head was singed. A wonderful proof this, indeed, of God’s care of his people, and that his angel encampeth around about them that fear him. _ “None can doubt,” as Mr. Wesley observes, ‘“ whe- ther these austerities were well intended. But it seems they were not well judged. It is probable they gave the first wound to an excellent constitution, and laid the: foundation of many infirmities, which nothing but death could cure.’”? Indeed he seems afterward to have been fully apprized of his error in this respect, remarking once to Mrs. Fletcher, when conversing with her about mortification, that if he had that time to spend again, he would not act in the same manuer either with regard to meat or sleep. ‘I have sometimes observed,” added he, “that when the body is brought low, Satan gains an advantage over the soul. It is certainly our duty to take all the care we can of our health. But, at that time, I did not seem to feel the want of the sleep I deprived myself of.” CHAPTER IIL ‘From his conversion to his taking orders, and entering upon the work of the ministry. 1. Ir was not long after he had himself felt the pow- ers of the world to come, that he was pressed in spirit to exhort others to seek after the same blessing. And he was the more strongly excited to this, by seeing the world all around him lying in wickedness. Being deeply sensi- ble of the goodness of God on the one hand, and of the misery of mankind on the other, he found an earnest longing 4 “ To pluek poor brands out of the fire, o snatch them from the verge of hell.” This he began to do a considerable time before he was admitted into holy orders. And even his first labours of love were far from being in vain. For though he was by no means perfect in the English tongue, particularly with regard to the pronunciation of it; yet the earnest- ness with which he spoke, (seldom to be found in Eng- lish preachers,) and the unspeakably tender affection to ‘he poor, undone sinners, who breathed in every word LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 33 and gesture, drew multitudes of people ta hear him: and by the blessing of God, his word ‘made so deep an impres- sion on their hearts, that very few went empty away. 2. From this time, till he took the direct care of souls, he used to be in London during the sitting of the parlia- ment, and the rest of the year at Tern-hall, (as it was then called,) instructing the young gentlemen. Every Sunday, when in the country, he attended the parish church at Atcham. But when the service was ended, instead of going home in the coach, which was always ready, he usually took a solitary walk by the Severn side, and spent some time in meditation and prayer. A pious domestic of Mr. Hill, having frequently observed him, one Sunday desired leave to walk with him, which he constantly did from that time. The account which he (Mr. Vaughan lately living in London) gave of Mr. Fletcher, when Mr. Wesley’s edition of his life was published, is as follows: “It was our ordinary custom, when the church service was over, to retire into the most lonely fields or meadows, where we frequently either kneeled down, or prostrated ourselves upon the ground. At those happy seasons I was a witness of such pleadings and wrestlings with God, such exercises of faith and love, as I have not known in amy one ever since. The consolations which we then received from God, induced us to appoint two or three nights in the week, whén we duly met, after his pupils were asleep. We met also constantly on Sundays, between four and five in the morning. Sometimes I stepped into his study on other days. I rarely saw any book before him, beside the Bible and Christian Pattern. And he was seldom in any other company, unless when neces- sary business required, beside that of the unworthy wri- ter of this paper. , 3. * When he was in the country, he used to visit an officer of excise at Atcham to be instructed in singing. On my desiring him to give me some account of what he recollected concerning Mr. Fletcher, he answered thus: ‘As to the man of God, Mr. Fletcher, itis but little that Iremember of him; it being above nine and twenty years since the last time I saw him. But this I well remember, his conversation with me was always sweet and savoury. He was too wise to suffer any of his precious moments.to 2 a 34 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. be trifled away. When there was company to dine at Mr. Hill’s, he frequently retired into the garden, and contentedly dine on a piece of bréad, and a few bunches of currants. Indeed, in‘his whole manner of living, he was a pattern of abstemiousness. Meantime, how great was his sweetness of temper and heavenly mindedness ! I never saw it equalled in any one. How often, when I parted with him at Tern-hall, have his eyes and hands been lifted up to heaven, to implore a blessing upon me, with fervour and devoutness unequalled by any I ever saw! I firmly believe he has not Jeft in this land, or per- haps in any other, one luminary like himself. I con- clude, wishing this light may be so held up, that many may see the glory thereof, and be transformed into its likeness. May you and I, and all that love the Lord Jesus Christ, be partakers of that holiness which was so conspicuous in him!’ . 4. “ Our interviews for singing and conversation, (con- tinues Mr. Vaughan, who was often present on these occasions,) were seldom concluded without prayer; in which we were frequently joined by her who is now my _ wife, (then a servant in the family,) as likewise by a poor widow in the village, who had also known the power of God unte salvation, and who died some years since, praising God with her latest breath. These were the only persons in the country whom he chose for his fami- liar friends. But he sometimes walked over to Shrews- bury, to see Mrs. Glynne, or Mr. Appleton ; (who like- wise now rests from his labours, after having many years adorned the Gospel.) He also visited any of the poor in the neighbourhood that were upon sick beds; and when no other person could be procured, performed even the meanest offices for them.” ~ 5. About this time his father died, as appears by the following letter, addressed to Mr. Richard Edwards of London, to whose care, as a leader, he was committed, when he was first received into the Methodist society in London. It is dated Tern, October 19, 1756. “ Dearest BrotuEr,—This is to let you know that (praised be the Lord) I am very well in body, and pretty well in soul:—but I have very few friends here, and God has been pleased to take away: the chief of those few by a most comfortable death. And lately I heard LIFE OF REV.'J. FLETCHER. 35 that my aged father is gone the way of all flesh: but the glorious circumstances of his death make me ample amends for the sorrow which I felt .For some years I have written to him with as much freedom as I could have done to a son, though not with so much effect as I wished. But last spring God visited him with a severe illness, which brought him to a sense of himself. And after a deep repentance, he died about a month ago in the full assurance of faith. This has put several of my friends on thinking seriously, which affords me great’ cause of thankfulness. I am your unworthy brother and servant in the Lord, Joun FLETCHER.”’ ‘6. During the early part of his residence in England, it is uncertain whether he entertained any thoughts of entering into holy orders, though he diligently prose- ~ cuted those studies which are generally regarded as pre- paratory to such a step. It is most probable that he had formed no design of this nature, till this, the second year of his continuance at Tern-hall, in Shropshire ; when he became acquainted with the power of true reli- gion, and experienced that important change of heart which has been before described. Receiving at that time an inestimable talent from the hand of God, he re- solved, like a wisé and faithful servant, to neglect no- thing that might conduce to the due improvement of it ; and from that period it became his grand inquiry, What’ shall I render unto the Lord for all the benefits that he hath done unto me? No service appeared too laborious to be undertaken, nor any sacrifice too valuable fo be offered in return for the signal favours conferred upon him. , 7. Bat what service could he render, or what sacrifice: could he offer, that might be acceptable to the God who had done so great things for him? The holy ministry, indeed, appeared to open before him a passage to the most important labours; and an entire consecration of “his united powers to this momentous work he consi- dered as the richest oblation he could make to the Fa- ther of mercies. But a variety of fears respecting his own unworthiness, prevented him from immediately offering this sacrifice, or hastily entering upon this work. He trembled at the idea of running before he was sent, and dreaded engaging in a warfare at his own cost. He 36 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. believed himself unfurnished for the duties of the office to which he aspired. And though he considered the inclination of his heart as an internal call to the service of the Church, yet he judged it necessary to tarry till that call should be confirmed, if not by some providen- tial opening, at least by the approbation of his Christian friends. 8. The Rev. Mr. Wesley was one whom, among others, he consulted on this occasion. To him he now addressed the following letter :— “ Tern, Nov. 24, 1756. “ Rev. Srr,—As I look upon you as my spiritual guide, and cannot doubt of your patience to hear, and your experience to. answer a question proposed by one of your people, I freely lay my case before you. Since I came to England I have been called outwardly three times to go into orders ; but upon praying to God that if those calls were not from him, they might come to nothing, something always blasted the designs of my friends ; and in this I have often admired the goodness of God, who prevented my rushing into that important employment as the horse into the battle. I never was so thankful for this favour as I have been since I heard the Gospel in its purity. Before I was afraid, but now I irembled to meddle with holy things; and resolved to work out my salvation privately, without engaging in a way of life which required so much more grace and gifts than I was conscious I possessed. Yet from time to time I felt warm and strong desires to cast myself and my ability on the Lord, if I should be called any more, knowing that he could help me, and show his strength in my weakness: and these desires were in- creased by some little success which attended my ex- hortations and letters to my friends. “T think it necessary to let you know, sir, that my patron often desired me to take orders, and said he would soon help me to a living ; to which I coldly answered, I was not fit, and that, besides, I did not know how to get a title. Things were in that state when, about six weeks ago, a gentleman whom I hardly knew offered me a living, which, in all probability, will be vacant soon; and a clergyman I never spoke to gave me, of his own accord, the title of curate to one of his livings. Now, s LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 37 sir, the question which I beg you to decide is, Whether I must and can make use of that title to get into orders? For with respect to the living, were it vacant, I have no mind to it; because I think I could preach with more fruit in my native country,.and in my,own tongue. “Tam in suspense: on one side my heart tells me I must try, and tells me so whenever I feel any degree of the love of God and man ; on the other, when I examine whether I am fit for it Iso plainly see my want of gifts, and especially of that soul of all the labours of a minis- ter, LOVE, continual, universal, flaming Love, that my confidence disappears: I accuse myself of pride to dare to entertain the desire of supporting one day the ark of God, and conclude that an extraordinary punishment will, sooner or later, overtake my rashness. As I am in both of these frames successively, I must own, sir, I do not see which of these two ways before me I can take with safety; and shall gladly be ruled by you; because _ [trust God will direct you in giving me the advice you think will best conduce to his glory, which is the only thing I would have in view in this affair.. I know how precious your time is, and desire no long answer.— Persist, or forbear, will satisfy and influence, Rev. sir, your unworthy servant, * J. F.” 9. We are not informed what answer Mr. Wesley re- turned to this letter. We can have no doubt, however, but that he encouraged him to proceed in his design ; and that Mr. Gilpin is perfectly right when he observes that “a discovery of his sentiments was no sooner made, but many honourable elders in the household of God, who had discernment enough to distinguish the grace that was in him, and how admirably he was fitted for the work of an evangelist, rejoiced over him as a faithful labourer already. hired into the‘vineyard of Christ. They not only ratified his internal call to the holy ministry by their unanimous approbation, but earnestly solicited him to obey that call without any farther delay. Mean- while the word of the Lord was as fire in his bones, ever struggling for vent, and not unfrequently breaking forth, as occasion offered, in public reproof, exhortation, and rayer. 10. “In this state he continued for about the space 38 LIFE OF REV. J, FLETCHER. of two years, not only determined what course he should pursue, but patiently waiting“ to hear what the Lord God would say concerning him. And during this season he was much occupied in making’a diligent preparation for Wace of the altar, that, if ever he should be called to so honourable an employment, he might go forth thoroughly furnishéd to every good work. The chief objects of his pursuit were sacred knowledge and Chris= tian purity; in both of which he made an uncommon proficiency, surpassing many who had studied for that knowledge, and struggled for that purity, through the greater part of their life. By his private exercises he was fitted for public labours, and by the holy discipline to ‘which he submitted himself, without any reserve, he was trained to spiritual eminence in the school of Christ. To those who perfectly knew-him in this state of retire- ment he appeared as a polished shaft, hid indeed for a season in the quiver of his Lord, yet ready for immediate service,-and prepared to fly in any appointed direction. 11. “He was not without promises of. preferment in the Church: but these served rather to retard than to hasten his entrance into it. Having a sacrifice to per- form, and not a fortune to secure, he was fearful lest his intention should be debased by views of an interested nature. At length, his humble reluctance was overcome, and, after the most mature ‘deliberation, he solemnly determined to offer himself a candidate for holy orders. And to this solemn determination he was urged by the increasing force of two powerful motives, gratitude and benevolence ; gratitude to God impelled him to declare the name of his great Benefactor, and bear public testi- mony to the word of his grace; while benevolence to- ward his fellow creatures incited him to spend and be spent in promoting their best interests. Constrained by these sacréd motives, he publicly dedicated himself -to the work of the holy ministry in the year 1757, when he received deacon’s orders on Sunday, March 6th, and’ priest’s-orders on the following Sunday, from the hands of the bishop of Bangor, in the chapel royal at St, James’. 12. .“¢The same day that he was ordained a priest,” says Mr. Wesley, “ being informed that I had no one to assist me at West-street chapel, he came away as soon LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 39 as ever the ordination was over, and. assisted me in the administration of the Lord’s Supper. He was now doubly diligent in preaching, not only in the chapels at West-street.and Spitalfields, but wherever the provi- dence of God opened a door to proclaim the everlasting Gospel. This he frequently did, not only in English, but likewise in French, his native language: of which he was allowed by all competent judges to be a complete master.” 13. The following letter, written to Mr. Wesley soon after his taking orders, manifests what a mean opinion he then had of himself both with respect to his grace and gifts. It is dated London, May 26, 1757. “Rev. Sir,—lIf I did not write to you before Mrs. Wesley had asked me, it, was not that I wanted a re- memrancer within, but rather an encourager without. There is generally upon my heart such a sense of my unworthiness, that I sometimes dare hardly open my mouth before a child of God; and think it an unspeak-. able honour to stand before one who has recovered something of the image of God, or sincerely seeks after it. Is it possible that such a sinful worm as I should have the privilege to converse with one whose soul is sprinkled with the blood of my Lord! The thought amazes, confounds me, and fills my eyes with tears of humble joy. Judge, then, at what distance I must see myself from you, if I am so much below the least of your children: and whether a remembrancer within suf- fices to make me presume to write to you, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear. ““T rejoice that you find everywhere an increase of praying souls. I doubt not but the prayer of the right- eous hath great power with God; and cannot but be- lieve that it must tend to promote the fulfilling of Christ’s gracious promises to his Church. He must, and cer- tainly will come at the time appointed; for he is not slack, as some men count slackness; and although he would -have all to come to repentance, yet he has not forgot to be true and just. Only he will come with more mercy, and will increase the light that shall be at evening tide, according to his promise in Zech. xiv, 7. I should rather think that the visions are not yet plainly disclosed ; and that the day and year, in which the Lord 40 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. will begin to make bare his arm openly, are still con- cealed from us. “I must say of Mr. Walsh, as he once said to me con- cerning God, ‘I wish I could attend him everywhere, as Elisha did Elijah. But since the will of God calls me from him I must submit, and drink the cup prepared for me. L have not seen him unless for a few moments, three or four timés before’ Divine service. We must meet at the throne of grace, or meet but seldom. O, when will the communion of saints be complete! Lord, hasten the time, and let me have a place among them that love thee, and love one another in sincerity. “TI set out in two days for the country. O, may I be faithful! harmless like a dove, wise like a serpent, and bold as a lion for the common cause! O, Lord, do not forsake me! Stand by the weakest of thy servants, and enable thy children to bear with me, and wrestle. with thee in my behalf. O bear with me, dear sir, and give me your blessing every day, and the Lord will return it to you sevenfold. I am, Rev. and dear sir, your un- worthy servant, ‘ J. ¥F.” 14, In less than three weeks, it seems, from the time of his going into the country, he had an opportunity of preaching. This, according to Mr. Vaughan, quoted by Mr. Wesley, was on the 19th of June following. “ His text was James iv, 4, (a very bold beginning!) Ye adul- terers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity against God? The congregation stood amazed, and gazed upon him as if he had been a monster. But to me he appeared as a messenger sent from heaven.” ‘ “It was not soon,” proceeds Mr. V., “ that he was invited again to preach in Atcham church. But he was invited to preach in several other churches in the neigh-» bourhood; as at Wroxeter, and afterward at the Abbey church in Shrewsbury, having preached twice before in St. Alkmond’s in that town. But not being yet perfect in the English tongue, he wrote down all the sermons he delivered in churches. But I doubt whether he preached above six times in the six months which he spent in the country. On my telling him I wished he had more op- portunities of preaching in this unenlightened part of the land, he answered, ‘ The will of God be done: I am in LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 41 his hands. And if he do not call me to so much public duty, I have the more time for study; prayer, and praise.’ ” 15. On this subject he signified his mind in the follow- ing letter, written at this time to his friend Mr. Edwards, before mentioned :— “T thank you for your encouraging observations; I want them, and use them by the grace of God. WhenI received yours I had not had one opportunity of preach- ing: so incensed were all the clergy against me. One, however, let me have the use of his church, the Abbey church at Shrewsbury. I preached in the forenoon with some degree of the demonstration of the Spirit. The congregation,was very numerous: and I believe one-half, at least, desired to hear me again. But the minister, would not let mé have the pulpit any more. The next Sunday, the minister of a neighbouring parish lying a dying, I was sent for to officiate for him. He died a few days after, and the chief man in the parish offered to make interest that I might succeed him. ButI could not consent. The next Sunday I preached at Shrews- bury again, but in another church. The next day I set out for Bristol, and was much refreshed among the brethren. As I returned, I called at New-Kingswood, about sixteen miles from Bristol. The minister offering me his church, I preached to a numerous congregation, gathered on half an hour’s notice. I think the seed then sown will not be lost.” 16. In the spring of this year (1758) we find him in London, from whence he wrote as follows to Mrs. Glynne, of Shrewsbury, the pious lady of his acquaint- ance before mentioned. His letter is dated April 18, and is here inserted to show the state of his mind at this time. “ Mapam,—As it is never too late to do what multi- plicity of business, rather than forgetfulness, has forced us to defer, Iam not ashamed, though after some months, to use the liberty you gave me, to inquire after the wel- fare of your soul; and that so much the more, as [ am conscious I have not forgotten you at the throne of grace. O may my petitions have reached heaven, and forced from, thence, at least, some drops of those spirit- ual showers of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost, which I implore for you. 42 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. * Though I trust the unction from above teaches you all things needful to salvation, and especially the neces- sity of continuing instant in prayer, and watching there- unto with all perseverance; yet I think it my duty to endeavour to add wings to your desires after holiness, by enforcing them with mine. O were I but clothed with all the righteousness of Christ, my prayers would avail much; and the lukewarmness of my brethren would not inctease my guilt, as being myself an instance of that coldness of love which puts me upon interceding for them. . “ Though I'speak of lukewarmness, I do not accuse you, madam, of having given way to it; on the contrary, it is my duty, and the joy of my heart, to hope that you stir up more and more the gift of God which is in you; that the evidences of your interést in a bleeding Lord become clearer every day; that the love of Christ con- strain you more and more to deny yourself, take up your cross in all things, and follow him patiently, through bad and good report: ina word, that continually leaving’ the thiggs which are behind, you stretch forward, through sunshine or darkness, toward the prize of your high calling in Jesus Ghrist,—I mean a heart emptied of pride, and filled with all the fulness of God. “T have often thought of you, madam, in reading the letters of a lady, (Mrs. Lefevre,) who was @ Christian, and an eminent Christian, not to say one of the bright- est lights that God has raised since the late revival- of godliness. The reproach of Christ was her crown of rejoicing, his cross her continual support, his followers her nearest companions, his example the pattern of her conversation. She lived a saint, and died an angel. Each one of her letters may be a pattern for Christian: correspondents, by the simplicity, edification, and love they breathe in every line. O when shall I write as she did? When my heart shall be as full of God as hers was. . “May the Lord enable you to walk in her steps, and grant me to see you shining among the humble, loving Marys of this age as she did but a few months ago. Her God is our God: the same Spirit that animated her is waiting at the door of our hearts, to cleanse them and fill them with his consolations, if we will but exclude LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. 43 the world, and let him in. Why should we then give way to despondency, and refuse to cherish that lively hope which if any one has, he will purify himself even as God is pure? Take courage then, madam, and con- sider that the hour of self-denial and painful wrestling with God will be short, and the time of victorious re- compense as long as eternity itself. May the Lord enable you and me to consider this well, and to act ac- cordingly. “I conclude, by commending you to the Lord, and to the word of his grace, and recommending inyself to your prayers. Iam, madam, your obedient servant for Christ's sake. J. ¥F.” 17. This year there were many French prisoners on their parole, at Tunbridge. Mr. Fletcher being desired to preach to them in their pwn language, he readily complied. Many of them appeared to be deeply affect- ed, and earnestly requested that he would preach to them every Lord’s. day. But some advised them first to pre- sent a petition to the bishop of London for leave. They did so, and (who would believe it?) the good bishop pe- remptorily rejected their petition! An odd incident fol- lowed. A few months after, the bishop died of a cancer in his mouth. ‘“ Perhaps,” says Mr. Wesley, “some may think this was a just retribution for silencing such a prophet on such an occasion! I am not ashamed to acknowledge this is my own sentiment; and I do not think it any breach.of charity to suppose that an action so unworthy of a Christian bishop had its punishment in this world.” When he returned from London, in the same.year, he was more frequently invited to preach in several of the neighbouring churches. And before his quitting the country, he gave his friend a few printed papers tu dis- tribute, entitled, “ A Christmas Box for Journeymen and Apprentices.” This is mentioned the rather, because it is supposed it was the first thing which he ever published. 18. In the spring of the next year he was again in London, and in the same humble and self-diffident state of mind, as appears by the following short extracts from three of his letters to the Rev. Charles Wesley. The first is dated March 22, 1759 :— : “My Duar S1r,—You left me without permitting me 44 LIFE OF REV. J. FLETCHER. to say, farewell; but that shall not hinder me from wish- ing you a good journey, and I flatter myself.that you are in the habit of returning my prayers. ‘©Since your departure I have lived more than ever like a hermit. It seems to me that I am an unprofitable weight upon the earth. I want to hide myself from all, I tremble when the Lord favours me with a sight.of my- self; I tremble to think of preaching only to dishonour God. To-morrow I preach at, West-street with all the feelings of Jonah: O would to God I might be attended with success! If the Lord shall, in any degree, sustain my weakness, I shall consider myself as indebted to your prayers. “A proposal has lately been made to me, to accom- pany .Mr. Nathaniel Gilbert to the West Indies. Ihave weighed the matter; but on one hand I feel that I have neither sufficient zeal, nor grace, nor talents, to expose myself to the temptations and labours of a mission in the West Indies ; and on the other, I believe that if God call me thither,.the time has not yet come. I wish to be certain that I am converted myself, before Ileave my converted brethren to convert heathens. Pray let me- know what you think of this business; if you condemn me to put the sea between us, the command would be a hard one; but I might, possibly, prevail on myself to give you that proof of the deference I pay to your judi- cious advice. ; “