This book was digitized by Microsoft Corporation in cooperation with Yale University Library, 2008. You may not reproduce this digitized copy of the book for any purpose other than for scholarship, research, educational, or, in limited quantity, personal use. You may not distribute or provide access to this digitized copy (or modified or partial versions of it) for commercial purposes. THK WORKS OF THE II Wi*,;.,;i ;<-,,,,,,,¦ ,,, IN TEN VOIVMES. VOLUME IV CONTAINING. THE EIGHTEENTH, NINETEENTH, TWENTIETH, AND TWENTY- FIRST NUMBERS OF HIS JOURNAL, PARTICULARS OF HIS DEATH, REVIEW OF HIS CHARACTER, &C. FIRST AMERICAN EDITION. KfeiD=¥orfe: PRINTED AND SOLD BY J. & J. HARPER, NO. 327 PEARL-STREET. CONTENTS OF VOLUME IV. MR. WESLEY'S JOURNAL. Number XVIII. continued from Dec. 1, 1777, to Aug. 8, 1799. PAGE, Journey to Ireland, . . . . . . 10 Strictures on Abbe ReynaVs History of the Indies, Tour through the North of England and Scotland, Number XIX. From August 9, 1779, to September 3, 1782. Tour into Wales, and the West of England, Visits Edinburgh, and returns to London, Journey to Cornwall, . .... Journey through the West of England and Wales, Visits the Isle of Man and Newcastle, Observations on Dr. Parson's " Remains of Japhet," Account of Louisa, ...... Journey to the North of Scotland, Letter from Mr. Black of Nova Scotia, Returns to London, and visits Cornwall, Number XX. From Sept. 4, 1782, to Aug. 3, 1784. Mr. Wesley returns from the West to London, Recovers from a Fever at Stroud, .... Visits Dublin, and returns to London, Journey to Holland, ...... Returns to London, ...... Remarkable Thunder- Storm in Oxfordshire, Recovers from a Fever at Bristol, .... Journey to Yorkshire, and returns to London, Journey to Inverness, . .... Returns through Newcastle to the Conference at Leeds Journey from Leeds through Wales and Bristol to London, Visits Plymouth, and returns by Bristol to Dublin, Tour through Ireland, Death of Mr. Vincent Perronet, Returns to London, Journey to Cornwall, Returns by Bristol ta London, Journey to the North of Scotland, Number XXL From June 29, 1786, to October 24, 1790. Returns from his 'Northern Tour to Bristol, Visits Holland, ..... Returns to London, Visits Plymouth, and returns to Bristol, Journey to Dublin, .: J. *J * — — *- Tisits Aberdeen, and returns by Glasgow into England, . 292 Letters to a Bishop on the Abuse of the Act of Toleration in Lin- EXTRACT OF THE JOURNAL, No. XVIII. [Continued.] FROM DECEMBER 1, 1777, TO AUGUST S, 1779, 1TJ.ONDAY, December 1, I spent some hours both morning and afternoon, in visiting the sick at the, west-end of the town; but I could not see them all. Wednesday 3, I visited as many as I could on the north-east part of the town. I spent the evening at Newing ton, with Mr. Fletcher, almost miraculously recovering from his consumption ; and on Thursday 4, he set out with Mr. Ireland, for the south of France. Tuesday 9, I visited the chief societies in Bedfordshire and Hunt- ingdonshire, and returned by Hertford, where, for once, I saw a quiet and serious congregation. We had a larger congregation at Barnet in the evening than ever, and a greater number of communi cants. Will this poor, barren wilderness at length blossom and bud as the rose ? Saturday 13, Being strongly urged to lay the first stone of the house which was going to be built at Bath, on Sunday 14, after preaching at West-street chapel in the morning, and at St. Paul's, Shadwell, in the afternoon, I went to Brentford. I preached at six ; and taking chaise at twelve, on Monday 15, easily reached Bath in the afternoon. Tuesday 16,1 paid a short visit to Bristol ; preach ed in the evening and morning following, Wednesday 17, and at one laid the foundation of the new chapel at Bath. The wind was pierc- ingly cold, yet scarcely any of the congregation went away before the end of the sermon. After preaching at the room in the evening, I took chaise, and the next afternoon reached London. Just at this time there was a combination among many of the post- chaise drivers on the Bath road, especially those that drove in the night, to deliver their passengers into each other's hands. One dri ver stopped at the spot they had appointed, when another waited to attack the chaise: in consequence of this many were robbed: but I vol. 4,-^A S> REV. JOHN WESLEFS JOURNAL. [JAN. I77fc. had a good protector still. I have travelled all roads, by day and by night, for these forty years, and never was interrupted yet. Thursday 25, I buried the remains of Mr. Bespham, many years master of a man-of-war. From the time he received the truth in love, he was a pattern to all that believe. His faith was full of mer cy and good fruits : his works shall praise him in the gates. Saturday 27, A few days since, my assistant, Mr. Baynes, by far the' strongest person in our family, was taken ill of a fever ; he was immediately attended, both by an apothecary and a physician ; but their labour was in vain : this morning God called him into the world of spirits. I had no desire to part with him ; but God knew what was best for him and me ! Wednesday 31, we concluded the old year, and began the new, with prayer and thanksgiving. Four or five of the local preachers assisted me : I was agreeably surprised : their manner of praying being so artless and unlaboured ; and yet rational and scriptural, both as to sense and expression. Thursday, January 1, 1778, We had a very solemn opportunity of renewing our covenant with God. Tuesday 6, I spent an agreea ble and a profitable hour with three German gentlemen, two of them Lutheran ministers, and the third, Professor of Divinity at Leip- sic. I admired both their good sense, seriousness, and good-breed ing. How few of our clergy exceed or equal them. Monday 19, I went over to Tunbridge- Wells, and preached iu the large dissenting meeting, to a numerous congregation ; and deep attention sat on every face. Tuesday 20, I went on through mis erable roads to Roberts-bridge, where an unusually large congrega tion was waiting. Thence we went on to Rye, where the house was sufficiently crowded as usual. How large a society would be here, could toe but spare them in one thing ! Nay, but then all our labour would be in vain. One sin allowed would intercept the whole blessing. Mr. Holman's widow being extremely desirous I should lodge at Carborough, two miles from Rye, I ordered my chaise to take me up at the preaching-house immediately after the service : she had sent a servant to shew me the way ; which was a road dirty and slip pery enough, cast up between two impassable marshes : the man waited awhile, and then went home, leaving us to guide ourselves. Many rough journeys I have had, but such a one as this I never had before : it was one of the darkest nights I ever saw; it blew a storm, and yet poured down with rain. The descent in going out of the town, was nearly as sleep as the ridge of a house ; as soon as we had passed it, the driver being a stranger, knew not which way to turn. Joseph Bradford, whom I had taken into the chaise, perceiving how things were, immediately got out and walked at the head of the horses (which could not possibly keep their eyes open, the rain so vio lently beating in their facesl through rain, wind, mud, and water, till in less than an hour he brought us safe to Carborough. Wednesday- 21,1 went back to Shoreham. Mr. Perronet, though in Ivs eighty-fifth year, js still able to go through the whole Sunday MARCH, 1778.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 9 service. How mercifulis God to the poor people of Shoreham ! and many of them are not insensible of it. Monday, February 2, I-had the satisfaction of spending an hour with that real patriot, Lord . What an unheard of thing it is, that even in a court he should retain all his sincerity ! He is indeed (what I doubt Secretary Craggs never was) "Statesman, yet friend to Truth." Perhaps no prince in Europe, besides King George, is served by two of the honestest, and two of the most sensible men in his king dom ! This week I visited the society, and found a surprising difference in their worldly circumstances. Five or six years ago, one in three among the lower ranks of people was out of employment ; and the case vvas supposed to be nearly the same through all London and Westminster. I did not now, after all the tragical outcries of want of trade that fill the nation, find one in ten out of business; nay, scarcely one in twenty, even in Spitalfields. Sunday IS, I buried the remains of Richard Burke, a faithful la bourer in our Lord's vineyard ; a more unblamable character I have hardly known. In all the years that he has laboured with us, I do not remember that he ever gave me occasion to find fault with him in any thing. He was a man of unwearied diligence and patience, and his works do follow him. Tuesday 17, I wrote "A Serious Address to the Inhabitants of England," with regard to the present state of the nation, so strange ly misrepresented, both by ignorant and designing men ; to remove, it" possible, the apprehensions which have been so diligently spread, as if it were on the brink of ruin. Thursday 26, I committed to the earth the remains of George Parsons. He has left very few like him; so zealously, so humbly, so unreservedly devoted to God : for some time his profiting has ap peared to all men ; he ripened apace for eternity. He was as a flame* of fire wherever he went, losing no occasion of speaking or working for God : so he finished his course in the midst of his years, and was quickly removed into the garner. Friday 27, Was the day appointed for the national fast, and it was observed with due solemnity; all shops were shut up; all was quiet in the streets; all places of public worship were crowded; no food was served up in the King's house till five o'clock in the evening. Thus far, at least, we acknowledge God may direct our paths ! Sunday, March 1, I preached at Brentford in the evening; Mon day 2, at Newbury ; and the next evening at Bath. Wednesday 4, I went on to Bristol ; I found the panic had spread hither also, as if the nation were on the brink of ruin. Strange that those who love God should be so frightened at shadows ! I can com pare this only to the alarm which spread through the nation in King William's time, that on that very night the Irish papists were to cut Ihe throats of all the protestants in England ! Monday 9, On this and the following days I visited the society, 10 rev. john wesley's journal. [april,' 177SV and found a good increase. This year 1 myself (which I have sel dom done) chose the preachers for Bristol; and these were plain men, and likely to do more good than has been done in one year for these twenty years. Friday 13, I spent an hour with the children at Kingswood, many of whom are truly desirous to save their souls. Monday 16, I took a cheerful leave of our friends at Bristol, and set out once more for Ireland. After visiting Stroud, Gloucester, and Tewksbury, on Wednesday 18, I went over to Bewdly, and preached about noon at the upper end of the town, to most of the inhabitants of it. Thursday 19, I preached to a large congregation in the church at Bongeworth, and spent a little time very agreeably with the rector, a pious, candid, sensible man. In the evening I preached at Peb- worth church ; but I seemed out of my element. A long anthem was sung ; but, I suppose, none beside the singers could understand one word of it. Is not that praying in an unknown tongue? I could no more bear it in any church of mine than Latin prayers. Friday 20, I preached at Birmingham. Saturday 21, calling at Wolverhampton, I was informed, that " some time since, a large, old house was taken, three or four miles from the town, which re ceives all the children that come, sometimes above four hundred at once. They are taught gratis, reading, writing, and popery, and when at age, bound out apprentices." In the evening I preached in the shell of the new house at New- castle-under Lyme; and thence hastened forward, through Burslem, Congleton, Macclesfield, and Stockport, to Manchester. I found it needful here also to guard honest Englishman against the vast terror which had spread far and wide. I had designed going from hence to Chester, in order to embark at Parkgate, but a letter from Mr. Wagner informing me, that a packet was ready to sail from Liver pool, I sent my horses forward, and followed them in the morning. But, before I came thither, the wind turned west ; so I was content Sunday 22, I was much refreshed by two plain, useful sermons at St. Thomas's church, as well as by the serious and decent behaviour of the whole congregation. In the evening I exhorted all of our society, who had been bred up in the church, to continue therein. Tuesday 31, We went on board the Duke of Leinster, and fell down the river, with a small side wind ; but in the morning, after a dead calm, a contrary wind arose, and blew exceedingly hard. Wednesday, April 1, The sea was rough enough ; however, I went to sleep about my usual time, and in the morning found myself in Dublin Bay, and about seven we landed at the quay. I was soon informed, that one of our friends, a strong, lively, healthy man, Mr. Ham, had died the day before. From the time he was taken ill, he was a mere self-condemned sinner, deeply convinc ed of his unfaithfulness to God, and declaring, " I give up ev'ry plea beside ; Lord, I am damn'd ; but thou hast died." " When my wife dies," said he, " let her be carried to the room : she has been a honour to her profession : but I will not T am not ABRit, 1778.] rev. john Wesley's journal. 11 worthy: I have been no credit to you." He continued full of self- condemnation, till after a weeks' illness, his spirit returned to God. I daily conversed with many of the society, and had the satisfac tion to find them both more united together, and more alive to God than they had been for some years. Saturday I began meeting the classes, and was agreeably surprised. I had heard, that nearly a hundred persons had left the society; on strict inquiry, I found about forty were wanting ; the present number being about four hundred and sixty : and therefore were more loving and unanimous than I ever knew them before. Sunday 5, Meeting the society in the evening, I largely explained the reasons of the late separation, and strongly exhorted all our brethren, " not to render railing for railing." Tuesday 7, I set out for the country, and reached Tyrrel's-pass : it being a mild evening, I preached to a numerous congregation. The next evening it was larger still ; and the power of the Lord was present to heal. Thursday 9, Between eight and nine I preached in the court-house at Mullingar, to a more serious congregation than I ever saw there before. In the evening I preached in the court-house at Longford to a far more numerous, and equally serious congregation. Friday 10, About eleven I preached at Abbydarrig, and before one set out for Athlone. The sun shone as hot as it uses to do at Midsummer. We had a comfortable time, both this evening and the next day ; all being peace and harmony. Sunday 12, God spoke in his word, both to wound and to heal. One young woman came to me just after service, who then first rejoiced in God her saviour. Monday 13, About noon I preached at Ballinasloe, to a large con gregation ; some of whom seemed to be much affected ; so did many at Aughrim in the evening. Tuesday 14, I went on to Eyre-court. The wind was now piercingly cold, so that I could not preach abroad ; and there was no need, for the minister not only lent me his church, but offered me a bed at his house ; but I was obliged to go forward. At six in the evening I preached at Birr, to a congregation of deeply attentive hearers. Wednesday 15, 1 met many of my old friends at Coolylough, and had a numerous congregation in the evening. Thursday 16, I preached in the riding-house in Tullamore. The commanding offi cer ordered all the soldiers to be present, and attended himself, with the rest of the officers, while I explained, Render unto Caesar the things that are Csesar's, and unto God the things that are God's. Friday 17, (Good-Friday) I preached at Tullamore in the morn ing, and Mountmellick in the evening. Saturday 18, I preached at Portarlington in the evening; and about eight in the morning, to a very genteel, yet attentive audience, on Acquaint thyself now with him and be at peace. I returned to Mountmellick before the church began, at which I would always be present, jf possible. I would fain have preached abroad in the afternoon, but the weather would not permit; so we made all the room we could in the house, and had a solemn and comfortable meeting;. 12 rev. John wesley's journal. [april, 1778. Monday 20, Mr. Jenkins, the vicar of Maryborough, read prayers, and I preached, on Repent, and believe the gospel. The congrega tion was far larger than when I was here before, and abundantly more attentive. Several clergymen were present, and several gen tlemen ; but they were as serious as the poor. Tuesday 21, We found the election for Parliament men had put all Kilkenny in an uproar. In consequence of this, we had a small, dead ^congregation. But another cause of this was, the bitter and perpetual quarrels between the chief members of the society. I talk ed largely with the contending parties, and they promised better be haviour for the time to come. Wednesday 22, 1 went on to Clonmell, where, our room being small, and the weather unfavourable for preaching abroad, we procured the largest room in the town, which was in the quaker's workhouse. I had scarcely sat down, when a young man came and said, " My fa ther and mother send their kind respects, and would be glad of thy company this evening." His mother (now Mrs. Dudley) was my old acquaintance, Molly Stokes. I went at four, and spent an hour very agreeably ; but much company coming in, Mr. Dudley desired I would call again in the morning. I then told him what his wife was reported to say of me : he answered me, it was an utter mistake; that she had never spoke a disrespectful word concerning me. Thursday 23, Several of our brethren from Cork met me at Rath- cormick. I was glad to find Mr. Rankin with them, just arrived from America. When we came to Cork, the congregation was wait ing; so I began without delay. Sunday 26, I earnestly exhorted a numerous congregation at eight to abstain from fleshly desires : a necessary lesson in every place, and no where more so than in Cork. At St. Peter's church I saw a pleasing sight, the independent com panies, raised by private persons associating together, without any expense to the government. They exercised every day, and if they answer no other end, at least keep the papists in order, who were exceedingly alert ever since the army was removed to America. Monday 27, In going to Bandon, I read Abbe Raynal's "History of the Settlements and Trade of the Europeans in the Indies." I would be glad to propose a few queries. I ask, 1, Is not this " Philo sophical History," so called, in many parts profoundly dull : exactly fitted to spread a pleasing slumber over the eyes of the gentle reader? 2, Are there not several passages quite obscure? Is this the fault of the author, or the translator ? 3, Are there not several assertions which are false in fact : such as that of the healthiness of Batavia, one of the unhealthiest places in the known world. 4, Do not many of his assertions so border upon the marvellous, that none but a dis ciple of Voltaire could swallow" them : as the account of milk-white men, with no hair, red eyes, and the understanding of a monkey ? 5, Is not Raynal one of the bitterest enemies of the christian revela tion that ever set pen to paper: far more determined, and less decent than Voltaire himself? as where he so keenly inveighs against that horrid superstition, the depriving men of their natural liberty of whoredom ! Does he not take every opportunity of wounding chris- APRIL, 1778.] REV. JOHN WEsLEv's JOURINAL. 13 tianity through the sides of superstition or enthusiasm ? Is not the whole laboured panegyric on the Chinese and the Peruvians a blow at the root of Christianity : insinuating all along that there are no christians in the world so virtuous as these heathens ? Prove this fact, and it undeniably follows that Christianity is not of God. But who can prove it? Not all the baptized or unbaptized infidels in the world. From what authentic history of China is that account taken ? From none that is extant : it is pure romance, flowing from the Abbe's fruitful brain. And from what authentic history of Peru is the ac count of the Peruvians taken ? I suppose from that pretty novel of Marmontell, probably written with the same design. 6, Is not Raynal one of the most bitter enemies of monarchy that ever set pen to pa per ? With what acrimony does he personally inveigh against it, as absolutely, necessarily, essentially subversive, not only of liberty, but of all national industry, all virtue, all happiness ! And who can deny it? Who? The Abbe himself! He totally confutes his own favourite hypothesis. For was not Atahualpa a monarch : yea, a far more absolute one than the king of France ? And yet, was not Peru industrious, virtuous, and happy under this very monarch ? So the Abbe peremptorily affirms, as it were, on purpose to confute himself. And is not the Emperor of China, at this day, as absolute a monarch as any in Europe ? And yet, who so industrious, according to Ray nal, who so virtuous, so happy as his subjects ; so that he must totally give up either his argument against Christianity, or that against mo narchy. If the Peruvians were, and the Chinese are, the most indus trious, virtuous, and happy men, then monarchy is no way inconsis tent with the industry, virtue, and happiness of a people. But if the Peruvians were, in these respects, and the Chinese are, no better than other men, (which is the very truth,) then the argument against Christianity falls to the ground. From the largeness and seriousness of the congregation at Bandon, 1 should have imagined the work of God was much increased ; but, upon inquiry, I found just the contrary; nearly one third of those were wanting whom I left in the society three years ago ; yet those who remained seemed much in earnest. In the evening God clothed his word with power ; few appeared to be unaffected : and I was sorry I could not spend a little more time, where the fields were so white to the harvest. Wednesday 29, I returned to Cork, and met the classes. 0 when will even the Methodists learn not to exaggerate ? After all the pomp ous accounts I had had of the vast increase of the society, it is not in creased at all ; nay, it is a little smaller than it was three years ago : and yet many of the members are alive to God: but the smiling world hangs heavy upon them. Sunday, May 3, I was a little surprised at a message from the gen tlemen of the Aughrim Society, (a company of volunteers so called,) that " if I had no objection, they would attend at the new room in the evening." They did so, with another independent company who were just raised, The True Blues. A body of such personable men I never saw together before ; tbe gentlemen in scarlet filled the side 14 rev. john wesley's jqur.val. [hax, lTi*. gallery; those iu blue, the front gallery: but both galleries would not contain them all : some were constrained to stand below ; all be haved admirably well, though I spoke exceedingly plain on We preach Christ crucified. No laughing, no talking; all seemed to hear as for life. Surely this is a token for good. Monday 4, I went to Kilfinane, in the neighbourhood of which there is a considerable revival of the work of God. The rain con tinuing, I preached in a large, empty house, and again at five in the morning. Probably I shall see that no more in the present world. We then went on, through abundance of rain, to Limerick. I felt in the evening the spirit of the congregation, the same as many years ago; but in one circumstance I observed a considerable change: I used to have large congregations at my first coming to Limerick; but from the first day they gradually decreased. It was not so now, but poor and rich, protestants and papists, flocked to gether, from the beginning to the end. Had they a presage that they should see my face no more ? Thursday 7, 1 preached once more to the loving, earnest, simple- hearted people of Newmarket. Two months ago, good Philip Geier fell asleep, one of the palatines that came over and settled in Ireland, between sixty and seventy years ago. He was a father both to this, and the other German societies, loving and cherishing them as his own children. He retained ali his faculties to the last, and, after two days' illness, went to God. Friday 8, Finding the poor people at Balligarane, whom I had not seen these five years, were very desirous to see me once more, I went over in the morning. Although the notice was exceedingly short, yet a large number attended. Saturday 9, I wrote a " Com passionate Address to the Inhabitants of Ireland:" through which, as well as through England, the mock-patriots had laboured to spread the alarm, as though we were all on the very brink of destruction. Sunday' 10, I examined the society, and have not known them for many years so much alive to God : and I do not remember to have ever found them so loving before: indeed the whole city seemed to breathe the same spirit. At three in the afternoon, I preached my farewell sermon, on 1 Cor. xiii. 13, and setting out immediately, reached Snegborough, before eight o' clock. Tuesday 12, Setting out early, I intended to lodge at Clare-Galway, but we found there was no lodging to be had; however, they told us there was a good inn at Shrule, not many miles farther; and there we found a house ; but it afforded no food either for man or beast, so we were obliged to push on for Ballinrobe, which we reached about eleven o'clock. We came this day sixty-eight (English) miles: a good day's work for a pair of horses. Wednesday 13, I preached in the evening to a large congregation; but most of them dead as stones. The next morning I crossed over to Hollymount, and preached to more than the house would contain. In the afternoon we came to Castlebar, and had a lively congregation in the evening. Here we found the same spirit as at Limerick, and solemnly rejoiced in God our Saviour. >iay, 1778.] rev. john Wesley's journal. 15 Sunday 17, Although the weather was rough and boisterous, the people flocked together at nine from all quarters, papists and protest ants, and God sent down a gracious rain, especially upon the back sliders. In the evening the court-house was exceedingly crovvded, and the fire of love ran from heart to heart. One eminent backslider, who had drunk in iniquity like water, was utterly broken in pieces, and resolved to cut off the right hand at once, and to be altogether a christian. When we came into the house, I told them, "God has more work to do in this family." Two of John Carr's sons and four of his daughters were present. I prayed for them in faith ; they were all soon in tears; their hearts were broken, and I left them mere sinners. Monday 18, There were two roads to Sligo one of which was several miles shorter, but had some sloughs in it : however, having a good guide, we chose this. Two sloughs we got over well : on our approaching the third, seven or eight countrymen presently ran to help us: one of them carried me over on his shoulders; others got' the horses through; and some carried the chaise. We then thought the difficulty was past; but in half an hour we came to another slough: being helped over it, I walked on leaving Mr. De Lap, John Carr, Joseph Bradford, and Jesse Bugden, with the chaise, which was stuck fast in the slough. As none of them thought of unharnessing the horses, the traces were soon broken: at length they fastened ropes to the chaise, and to the strongest horse ; and the horse pulling, and the men thrusting at once, they thrust it through the slough to the firm land. In an hour or two after, we all met at Ballinacurrah. While I was walking, a poor man overtook me, who appeared to be in deep distress: he said, he owed his landlord twenty shillings' rent, for which he had turned him and his family out of doors ; and that he had been down with his relations to beg their help, but they would do nothing. Upon my giving him a guinea, he would needs kneel down in the road to pray for me ; and then cried out, " Oh ! I shall have a house, I shall have a house over my head !" So, perhaps, God answered that poor man's prayer, by the sticking fast of the chaise in the slough. Tuesday 19, In the evening I preached at Sligo in the old court house, an exceedingly spacious building. I know not that ever I saw so large a congregation here before ; nor, considering their number, so well-behaved. Will God revive his work even in this sink of wickedness : and after so many deadly stumbling-blocks ! Upon inquiry, I found there had been for some time a real revival of religion here. The congregation have considerably increased, and the society is nearly doubled. We had in the evening a larger con gregation than before, among whom were most of the gentry of the town : and all but one or two young gentlemen (so called) were re markably serious and attentive. I now received an intelligible account of the famous massacre at Sligo. A little before the revolution, one Mr. Morris, a popish gentleman, invited all the chief protestants to an entertainment : at the close of which, on a signal given, the men he had prepared fell upon them, and left not one of them alive. As soon as King vol. 4. — B 16 rev. john Wesley's journal. [june, 1778. William prevailed, he quitted Sligo; but, venturing thither about twenty years after, supposing no one then knew him, he was discov ered, and used according to his deserts. Thursday 21, I went on to Peter Taylor's, near Swadlingbar. At six I preached in a large room in the town, designed for an as sembly ; where rich as well as poor behaved with the utmost decency. Friday 22, We went through a lovely country to Belturbet, once populous, now greatly decayed. At eleven I preached in the ar moury, a noble room, to a very large and a very serious congrega tion. At six I preached in the court-house at Cavan, to a larger con gregation than that at Belturbet. Saturday 23, I was desired to preach once more at Cootehill, which Lhad not seen for many years. The use of the presbyterian meeting-house being procured, I had a very extraordinary congrega tion. To many church-people were added Seceders, Arians, Mora vians, and what not; however, I went straight forward, insisting that Without holiness no man shall see the Lord. After dinner we went on to Clones, finely situated on the top of a hill, in the midst of a fruitful and well-cultivated country; and the people seemed as sprightly as the place. I preached in the Green Fort, near the town, to abundance of people, but no triflers. Sun day 24, 1 preached there again at nine, to a still larger congregation ; but the far largest of all was in the evening, the people coming in from all parts of the country. There is something very peculiar in this people ; they are more plain, open, and earnest, than most I have seen in the kingdom Indeed some of our Irish societies, those in Athlone, Limerick, Castlebar, and Clones, have much of the spirit of our old Yorkshire societies. Monday 25, I went through a pleasant country to Augholan. A very large congregation was soon assembled ; and the rich seemed to be as attentive as the poor. So they were also in the evening at Sidare. Tuesday 26, We went on to Loghean. Wednesday 27, 1 receiv ed a very remarkable account from Mrs. Brown, a gentlewoman in the neighbourhood. She said, " Six years ago, my daughter Jane, then seventeen years old, was struck raving mad; she would strike any one she could, particularly her father; she cursed and swore hor ribly ; she never slept ; and let her hands be bound ever so fast over night, they were loose in the morning. The best physicians were consulted, and all means used, but to no purpose. On Thursday, De cember 28, last, she violently struck her father on the breast : the next day, Friday 29, she was perfectly well, without using any means at all ; and she has continued ever since, not only in her senses, but full of faith and love." Thursday 28, Between nine and ten I preached at a village called Magharacolton, to a large and serious congregation ; and in the even ing at Londonderry. Considering the largeness and seriousness of the congregations, I wonder no more good is done here. Monday, June 1, I went over to the New-Buildings, and took my honourable post in the Mill-Deep; attention sat on every face. So june, 1778.] rev. john wesley's journal. 17 it usually does, when the poor have the gospel preached. I preach ed at Londonderry in the evening, on 1 am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. How happy would many of these people be, if they had but thoroughly learned this lesson ! Wednesday 3, I took an account of the present society, a little smaller than it was three years ago. Thursday 4, I took my leave of this affectionate people, and about eleven preached at New-Town, Limavady. In the afternoon I went on Kilrea, and was cordially received by Mr. Haughton, once a travelling preacher, now a magis trate and rector of a parish; but the church wherein it was at first proposed I should preach, is, as I found, a mere heap of ruins ; so I preached in the new meeting-house, a very large and commodious building. Abundance of people flocked together ; some of them seemed not a little affected; and all were seriously attentive; surely some will bring forth good fruit. Friday 5, We went on to Colerain. As the barracks here art empty, we hired one wing, which, by laying several rooms into one, supplied us with a spacious preaching-house ; but it would not con tain a third of the congregation ; but standing at the door, I had them all before me in the barrack-square. Saturday 6, I was desired to take a ride to the celebrated Giant's Causeway. It lies eleven English miles from Colerain. When we came to the edge of the precipice, three or four poor boys were ready to hold our horses, and shew us the way down. It being dead low water, we could go any where, and see every thing to the best advantage. It is doubtless the effect of subterraneous fire. This manifestly appears from many of the stones which composed the pillars that are now fallen down: these evidently bear the mark of fire, being burnt black on one or the other surface. It appears, like wise, from the numerous pumice stones scattered among the pillars : just such pillars and pumices are found in everyT country which is, or ever was, subject to volcanos. In the evening I saw a pleasing sight. A few days ago, a young gentlewoman, without the knowledge of her relations, entered into the society : she was informed this evening that her sister was speaking to me on the same account. As soon as we came into the room, she ran to her sister, fell upon her neck, wept over her, and could just say, "0 sister, sister!" before she sunk down upon her knees to praise God. Her sister could hardly bear it ; she was in tears too, and so were all in the room. Such are the first-fruits at Colerain. May there be a suitable harvest ! Sunday 7, I breakfasted with Mr. Boyd, the twin soul for humili ty and love, with Mr. Sh — , of Staplehurst. I read prayers for him, and administered the sacrament to such a number of communicants, as, I suppose, never met there before. A little before the time of preaching, the rain ceased, and we had a wonderful congregation in the barrack-yard in the evening: many of them were present at five in the morning, when I left them full of love and good desires. About nine I preached in the town-hall at Ballimannely ; about twelve at another little town : and in the evening at Ballymena. 18 rev. John wesley's journal. [tune 1778. Tuesday 9, We rode through a small village, wherein was a little society. One desiring me to step into a house there, it was filled presently ; and the poor people were all ear, while I gave a short exhortation, and spent a few minutes in prayer, In the evening, as the town-hall at Carrickfergus could not contain the congregation, I preached in the market-house, on Fear God and keep his command ments, for this is the whole of man. The people in general ap peared to be more serious, and the society more earnest than they had been for many years. Thence we went to Belfast, the largest town in Ulster, said to con tain thirty thousand souls. The streets are well laid out, are broad, straight, and well built; the poor-house stands on an eminence, front ing the main street, and having a beautiful prospect on every side, over the whole country : the old men, the old women, the male and the female children, are all employed according to their strength; and all their apartments are airy, sweet, and clean, equal to any thing of the kind I have seen in England. I preached in the evening on one side of the New Church, to far the largest congregation I have seen in Ireland : but I doubt the bulk of them were nearly concerned in my text, Jlnd Gallio cared for none of these things. Thursday 11, About nine I preached to five or six hundred people in the old church at Newtown, Claneboys. The sight of these vast buildings, and large gardens running to decay, through the extinction of the family that lately owned them, (so successful was the scheme of those wretches who purposely educated poor Mr. C — , the last of the family, in such a manner as to ensure his not living long, and his dying without issue) always makes me pensive : but still our comfort is, there is a God that judgeth the earth. About twelve I preached at Kirkhubly; thence we went to Port- a-forry, and found a ready passage to Strangford. I stood on the point of a rock, which projected into a large circular cavity, that contain ed in the hollow, and round the edge of it, all the multitude who flocked together. I spoke longer than I used to do ; and was no more weary when I had done, than I was at six in the morning. Af ter service we went to Downpatrick, where I slept in peace. Friday 12, I walked through the town; I suppose one of the most ancient in Ulster. I was informed, it was once abundantly larger than it is now ; consisting of the Irish town, then inhabited by none but Roman Catholics ; and the English town, encompassed with a wall, and a deep ditch filled with water. At the head of the English town stands the abbey, on a hill which commands all the country. It is a noble ruin, and is far the largest building that I have seen in the kingdom. Adjoining to it is one of the most beautiful groves which I ever beheld with my eyes; it covers the sloping side of the hill, and has vistas cut through it every way. In the middle of it is a circular space, twenty or thirty yards in diameter. I would have preached there, but the rain drove into the house as many as could rrowd together. Saturday 13, 1 took my stand in the middle of the grove, the peo- JUNE, 1778.] rev. john Wesley's journal. 19 pie standing before me on the gradually-rising ground, which formed a beautiful theatre ; the sun just glimmered through the trees, but did not hinder me at all. It was a glorious opportunity. The whole congregation seemed to drink into one spirit. Sunday 14, I preached at Dunsford in the morning. In the even ing the congregation in the grove exceeded even that at Belfast ; and I verily believe all of them were almost persuaded to be christians. Monday 15, I left Downpatrick with much satisfaction; and in the evening preached in the Linen-hall at Lisburn, to nearly as lar°-e a congregation as that in the grove, but not nearly so much affected. 'Af terwards I went to my old lodging at Derry Aghy, one of the plea- santest spots in the kingdom ; and I could relish it now ! How does God bring us down to the gates of death, and bring us up again ! Tuesday 16, I preached at eight to a lively congregation, under the venerable old yew, supposed to have flourished in the reign of King James, if not of Queen Elizabeth. Wednesday 17, At eleven, our brethren flocked to Lisburn, from all parts, whom I strongly exhorted, in the apostle's words, To walk worthy of the Lord. At the love-feast which followed, we were greatly comforted ; many of the country people declaring with all simplicity, and yet with great propriety, ooth of sentiment and ex pression, what God had done for their souls. Thursday 18, I preached at Ballinderry, (in my way to Lurgan) where many flocked together though at a very short warning. We had four or five times as many in the evening at Lurgan ; but some of them wild as colts untamed. However, they all listened to that great truth, Narrow is the way that leadeth to life. Friday 19, I preached about noon to a serious company at Derry - Anvil, and then went on to Cockhill. I preached here at the bottom of the garden ; the table was placed under a tree, and most of the people sat on the grass before it; and every thing seemed to concur with the exhortation, Acquaint thyself now with him, and be at peace. Saturday 20, I travelled through a delightful country to Charle- mont, where Captain Tottenham was the commanding officer. We lodged with him in the castle, which stands on an eminence, and commands the country on all sides. A tent was set up in the castle- yard, where all the soldiers were drawn up at eleven, with abundance of people from many miles round, who were all attention. In the evening their number was considerably enlarged ; but still all heard as for life. Sunday 21, I preached at nine in the avenue at Armagh, to a large and serious congregation. It was increased four-fold at six in the evening; but many were there who behaved as if they had been in a bear-garden. Monday 22, I took a walk to the Primate's, and went through the house, and all the improvements. The house is neat and handsome, but not magnificent; and is elegantly, but not splendidly, furnished. The domain is beautifully laid out in meadow ground, sprinkled with trees; on one side of which is a long hill covered with a shrubbery. 20 rev. john wesley's jovrnal. [june, 1778. cut into serpentine walks. On each side of the shrubbery is a straight walk, commanding a beautiful prospect. Since this Primate came, the town wears another face : he has repaired, and beautifully, the cathe dral ; built a row of neat houses for the choral vicars ; erected a public library and an infirmary ; procured the free-school to be re-built of the size of a little college, and a new-built horse-barrack, together with a considerable number of convenient and handsome houses ; so that Armagh is at length rising out of its ruins into a large and popu lous city. So much good may any man of a large fortune do, if he lay it out to the best advantage ! Tuesday 23, I went on to Tandrogar, one of the pleasantest towns in Ireland : as it was a fair, calm evening, I had designed to preach in the avenue to the castle ; but being desired to preach in the court yard, I took my place under a tall, spreading tree, in the midst of a numerous congregation, who were still as night : there could not be devised a more pleasing scene ; the clear sky, the setting sun, the surrounding woods, the plain, unaffected people, were just suitable to the subject, My yoke is easy, and my burden light. Wednesday 24, For exactly two months we have had only two days without rain. In the evening I preached in the same lovely place : I dined, supped, and lodged at Dr. Lesley's, the rector, a well-bred, sensible, and, t believe, a pious man. We had family- prayers before supper, which he read with admirable propriety and devotion ; and I know not that I have spent a more agreeable even ing since I came into the kingdom. Thursday 25, I walked round Dr. Lesley's domain ; a pleasanter spot I never saw: it lies on the top of a fruitful hill, at a small dis tance from the town, and commands the whole view of a lovely country, east, west, north, and south ; and it is laid out with the finest taste imaginable. The ground I took for a park I found was an orchard, tufted with fruit trees and flowering shrubs, and surrounded with a close shady walk. I spent another hour with the amiable family this morning, and it was an hour I shall not soon forget, but it will never return ! For one, if not more, of that lovely company, is since removed to Abraham's bosom ! In the evening I preached to a large congregation at Newry ; and on Saturday morning returned to Dublin. I had now just finished Xenophon's k^k n*iJW Some parts of which I think are exceedingly dull, particularly his numerous speeches ; and above all, the tedious dialogue between Cyrus and Cambyses : but what a beautiful picture does he draw of Cyrus ! What an understanding ! and what tempers ! Did ever a heathen come up to this? Not since the world began. Few, exceedingly few, even of the best instructed christians have attained so unblama ble a character. Sunday 28, I am this day seventy-five years old, and I do not find myself, blessed be God, any weaker than I was at five-and- twenty; this also hath God wrought! All this week I visited as many as I could, and endeavoured to confirm their love to each JULY, 1778.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 21 other ; and I have not known the society for many years so united as it is now. Saturday, July 4, A remarkable piece was put into my hands, The Life of Mr. Morsay; and I saw no reason to alter the judgment which I had formed of him forty years ago. He was a man of un common understanding, and greatly devoted to God : but he was a consummate enthusiast: not the word of God, but his own imagina tions, which he took for divine inspirations, were the sole rule both of his words and actions. Hence arose his marvellous instability, taking such huge strides backwards and forwards ; hence his fre quent darkness of soul ; for when he departed from God's word, God departed from him. Upon the whole, I do not know that ever I read a more dangerous writer, one who so wonderfully blends to gether truth and falsehood, solid piety and wild enthusiasm, Tuesday 7, Our little Conference began, at which about twenty preachers were present. On Wednesday we heard one of our friends at large, upon the "Duty of leaving the church;" but, after a full discussion of the point, we all remained firm in our judgment, that it is our duty not to leave the church wherein God has blessed us, and does bless us still. Sunday 12, After I had several times explained the nature of it, we solemnly renewed our covenant with God. It was a time never to be forgotten ; God poured down upon the assembly the spirit of grace and supplication, especially in singing that verse of the conclud ing hymn, " To us the covenant blood apply, Which takes our sins away, And register our names on high, And keep us to that day." This afternoon Mr. Delap, one of our preachers, walking through the city, met a crowd of people running from a mad-dog, who had bit several persons ; he walked on, took up a large stone, struck the dog on the head, and knocked him down; he then leaped upon him, and dispatched him, while the people crowded round, and gave him abundance of thanks. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I visited many of those who haid left the society ; but I found them so deeply prejudiced, that till their hearts are changed, I could not advise them to return to it. Thursday 16, I went with a few friends to Lord Charlemont's, two or three miles from Dublin. It is one of the pleasantest places I have ever seen. The water, trees, and lawns are so elegantly in termixed with each other; having a serpentine-walk running through a thick wood on one side, and an open prospect, both of land and sea, on the other. In the thickest part of the wood is the hermitage, a small* room, dark and gloomy enough. The Gothic temple, at the head of a fine piece of water, which is encompassed with stately trees, is delightful indeed; but the most elegant of all the buildings is not finished; the shell of it is surprisingly beautiful, and the rooms 22 rev. John wesley's journal. [aug. 1778. well contrived, both for use and ornament. But what is all this, unless God be here ? Unless he be known, loved and enjoyed ? Not only vanity, unable to give happiness, but vexation of spirit. Sunday 19, In the evening I went on board the Prince of Orange; but the wind failing, we soon stuck upon a sand bank: we got clear of it about five in the morning, and set sail. All the day before there had been a strong north-east wind ; this had raised the sea to an un common degree, which affected me full as much as a storm: howev er, lying down at four in the afternoon, I fell asleep, and slept most of the time till four in the morning : about six we landed on Liverpool quay, and all my sickness was over. Tuesday 21, we had as usual, a very numerous and very serious congregation. Wednesday 22, I went on to Bolton. The new- house here is the most beautiful in the country: it was well filled in the evening, and I believe many of the audience tasted largely of the powers of the world to come, while I enlarged upon our Lord's words, Neither can they die any more ; for they are equal to angels, and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection. Friday 24, 1 preached at Bury and Rochdale, and the next evening at Halifax. Sunday 26, the house was tolerably well filled at eight. Understanding there was great need of it, I preached on Render unto Caesar the things that are Csesar's, and unto God, the things that are God's : I spoke with all plainness, and yet did not hear that any one was offended. At one I preached on those words in the Gospel for the day, Reck on ye yourselves to be dead unto sin, but alive unto God, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Such a time I have not known for some years: the house was extremely crowded; but I believe there was not only no inattentive, but no unaffected hearer. In the evening I preached at Bradforth to such a congregation as I have not seen since I left London. Saturday, August 1, I was desired to take a view of Mr. Bush- field's improvements near Bingley. His house stands on the top of a hill, clothed with wood, opposite to another, which is covered with tall oaks. Between the hills runs the river; on the top, at the bottom, through the midst, and along the side of the woods, he has made partly straight, partly serpentine walks; some of which command a lovely prospect. He is continually making new improvements; but will not that thought frequently intrude, " Must I then leave thee, paradise ? Then leave These happy shades and mansions fit for gods?" Sunday 2, At one I preached at the foot of Birstal-hill to the largest congregation that ever was seen there. It was supposed there were twelve or fourteen thousand, but, there were some thousands more at Leeds : I think it was the largest congregation I have seen for many years, except that at Gwenap in Cornwall. Tuesday 4, Our Conference began; so large a number of preach ers never met at a Conference before. I preached morning and evening till Thursday night, then my voice began to fail; so I desired AUG. 1778.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. two of our preachers to supply my place the next day. On Saturday the Conference ended. Sunday 9, I preached at eight in the market-place at Dewsbury, to some thousands of serious people, as Mr. Pawley would not permit me to preach in the church, "because it would give offence !" After visiting Brad forth and Halifax, I struck across to Manches ter and Stockport, and went on by moderate journies to London. Having soon finished my business there, on Monday 17, Dr. Coke, my brother, and I, took coach for Bristol ; and early on Thursday 20, I set out for Cornwall. I preached at Taunton that evening : Friday 21, at Exon ; and on Saturday reached the dock. Sunday 23, At seven I preached in our room, and at one on the quay at Plymouth. The common people behaved well ; but I was shocked at the stupidity and ill-breeding of several officers, who kept walking and talking together all the time, with the most perfect unconcern. We had no such Gallios in the evening at the dock, though the congregation was four times as large. Surely this is an understanding people: may their love be equal to their knowledge. Monday 24, In the way to Medras, Mr. Furz gave me a strange relation, which was afterwards confirmed by eye and ear witnesses. " In July, 1748, Martin Hoskins, of Sithney, being in a violent pas sion, was struck raving mad, and obliged to be chained down to the floor. Charles Skelton went to see him : he cried out, " Who art thou ? Hast thou faith ? No ! thou art afraid." Charles felt an inex pressible shock, and was raving mad himself. He continued so for several days, till some agreed to keep a day of fasting and prayer. His lunacy then ended as suddenly as it began ; but what was pecu liarly remarkable was, while he was ill, Martin was quite well ; as soon as he was well, Martin was as ill as ever. Thence I went on to Redruth, Helston, and Penzance. On Thurs day 27, in the evening, I preached in the market-place at St.. Just : very few of our old society are now left ; the far greater part of them are in Abraham's bosom; but the new generation are of the same spirit, serious, earnest, devoted to God ; and particularly remarkable for simplicity and christian sincerity. Friday 28, The stewards of the societies met at St. Ives, a com pany of pious, sensible men. I rejoiced to find that peace, and love prevailed through the whole circuit: those who stiled themselves my Lady's preachers, who screamed, and railed, and threatened to swal low us up, are vanished away. I cannot learn that they have made one convert, a plain proof that God did not send them. Saturday 29, 1 found the venerable old man at St. Cuthbert's, pale, thin, and scarcely half alive ; however he made shift to go in a chaise to the preaching, and deaf as he was, to hear almost every word : he had such a night's rest as he had not had for many months, and in the morning seemed hardly the same person. It may be, God will give him a little longer life for the good of many. Sunday 30, About five I preached in the amphitheatre at Gwenap, it was believed, to four-and-twenty thousand ; afterwards I spent a solemn hour with the society, and slept in peace. vol. 4. — C 24 rev. john wesley's journal. [sept. 1778. Monday 31, About eleven I preached to a large and serious con gregation, near the town-hall in Bodmin, and about six in the even ing at Launceston ; a town as little troubled with religion as most in Cornwall. Tuesday, September 1, I went to Tiverton. I was musing here on what I heard a good man say long since, " Once in seven years I burn all my sermons ; for it is a shame if I cannot write better sermons now than I could seven years ago." Whatever others can do, I really cannot I cannot write a better sermon on The Good Steward, than I did seven years ago : I cannot write a better on -The Great Assize, than I did twenty years ago : I cannot write a better on The Use of Money, than I did nearly thirty years ago : nay, I know not that I Can write a better on The Circumcision of the Heart, than I did five-and-forty years ago. Perhaps, indeed, I may have read five or six hundred books more than I had then, and may know a little more history, or natural philosophy than I did : but I am not sensible that this has made any essential addition to my knowledge in di vinity. Forty years ago, I knew and preached every christian doc trine which I preach now. Thursday 3, About noon I preached at Cathanger, about eight miles from Taunton. It was an exceedingly large house, built (as the in scription over the gate testifies) in the year 1555, by Serjeant Walsh, who had then eight thousand pounds a year, perhaps, more than equal to twenty thousand now. But the once famous family is now forgot ten ; the estate is mouldered almost into nothing; and three quarters of the magnificent buildings lie level with the dust I preached in the great hall, like that of Lincoln College, to a very serious congre gation. In the evening I preached at South Petherton, once a place of renown, and the capital of a Saxon kingdom : as is vouched by a palace of King Ina still remaining, and a very large and ancient church. I suppose the last blow given to it was by Judge Jeffries, who, after Monmouth"' s rebellion, hanged so many of the inhabitants, and drove so many away, thas it is never likely to lift up its head again. Friday 4, I spent some time in the evening, and an hour in the morning with the lovely children at Publow. Such another company of them I never saw, since Miss Bosanquet removed from Laton- Stone. Saturday 5, I returned to Bristol. Sunday 6, at eight I preached near the Drawbridge : at two near Kingswood school, under the tree which I planted for the use of the next generation : and at five near King's-square, to a very numerous and exceedingly serious congre gation. Monday 7, In my way to Bath, I read a pamphlet which surprised me exceedingly. For many years I had heard the king severely blamed, for giving all places of trust and profit to Scotchmen. And this was so positively and continually affirmed, that I had no doubt of it. To put the matter beyond all possible dispute, the writer ap peals to the Court Calendar of the present year, which contains the names of all those that hold places under the kin<-. And hereby it ocr. 1778.] rev. john wesley's journal. 25 appears, that of four hundred and fifty odd places, just eight are pos sessed by Scotchmen ; and of the hundred and fifty-one places in the royal household, four are possessed by Scots, and no more. Ought not this to be echoed through the three kingdoms, to shew the regard to truth these wretches have, who are constantly endeavouring to in flame the nation against their sovereign, as well as their fellow- subjects ! Tuesday 8, In the evening I stood on one side of the market-place of Frome, and declared to a very numerous congregation, His com mandments are not grievous. They stood as quiet as those at Bris tol, a very few excepted, most of whom were, by the courtesy of England, called gentlemen. How much inferior to the keelmen and colliers ! On Wednesday and Thursday, I made a little excursion into Dor setshire, and on Saturday returned to Bristol. Sunday 1 3, we had a comfortable opportunity at the room in the morning, as well as at the square in the afternoon, where the congregation was considerably larger than the Sunday before. But on Sunday 20, it was larger still. Now let the winter come : we have made our full use of the Michael mas summer. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, on meeting the classes, I carefully examined whether there was any truth in the assertion, that above a hundred in our society were concerned in unlawful distilling: the result was, that I found two persons, and no more, that were con cerned therein. I now procured a copy of part of Mr. Fl — 's late letter to Mr. J., which I think it my duty to publish, as a full answer to the lying accounts which have been published concerning that bad man. "Mr. Voltaire, finding himself ill, sent for Dr. Fronchin, first physician to the Duke of Orleans, one of his converts to infidelity, and said to him, ' Sir, I desire you will save my life. I will give you half my fortune if you will lengthen out my days, only six months. If not, I shall go to the devil, and carry you with me.' " Thursday 24, I read prayers and preached in Midsummer-Norton church. Thence I went to Bradford, on a sultry hot day, such as were several days this month ; and preached on the Seed that fell among thorns. God strongly applied his word. Tuesday 29, I preaehed at Almsbury to a large number of plain people, who seemed just ripe for the gospel. We observed Friday, October 2, as a day of fasting and prayer for our king and nation. We met, as usual, at five, at nine, at one, and in the evening. At each time, I believe, some found that God was with us : but more espe cially in the concluding service. Saturday 3, Visiting one at the poor-house, I was much moved to see such a company of poor, maimed, halt, and blind, who seemed to have no one caring for their souls. So I appointed to be there the next day ; and at two o'clock had all that could get out of bed, young and old, in the great hall. My heart was greatly enlarged toward them, and many blessed God for the consolation. Monday I went with my brother to the Devizes, and preached in 26 EEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. L0CT- 1778' a large, commodious room. This and the following evening we preached at Sarum. Wednesday 7, we went on to Winchester. 1 had thoughts of preaching abroad, if happily any thing might awak en a careless, self-conceited people : but the rain would not permit ; and it made the road so heavy, that we could not reach Portsmouth common till nearly six. Thursday 8, One of our friends, whom I have known several years, Mrs. Sarah M — d, and one on whose veracity I could depend, was mentioning some uncommon circumstances : I desired her to relate them at large, which she readily did as follows : " Six or seV-en years ago, a servant of my husband's died of the small pox. A few days after, as I was walking into the town, I met him in his common every day clothes, running towards me. In about a minute he disappeared. "Mr. Heth, a surgeon and apothecary died in March, 1756. On the 14th of April following, I was walking with two other women in the High-street, about day-break, and we all three saw him, dress ed as he usually was, in a scarlet surtout, a bushy wig, and a very small hat. He was standing and leaning against a post, with his chin resting on his hands. As we came towards him, (for we were not frighted at all,) he walked towards us, and went by us. We looked steadily after him, and saw him till he turned into the mar ket-house. "Not long after this, Mr. Sm — died. Ten or twelve days after, as I was walking near his house, about eleven o'clock, in a bright, sun-shiny day, I saw him standing at his chamber window, and look ing full upon me ; but it was the most horrid countenance that I ever saw. As I walked on, I could not keep my eyes off him, till he withdrew from the window, though I was so terrified with his ghast ly look, that I was ready to drop down." Friday 9, I returned to London, and Sunday 11, buried the re mains of Eleanor Lee. I believe she received the great promise of God, entire sanctification, fifteen or sixteen years ago, and that she never lost it for an hour. I have conversed intimately with her ever since, and never saw her do any action, little or great, nor heard her speak any word which I could reprove. Thou wast indeed a Mother in Israel ! Tuesday 13,1 took a little tour into Oxfordshire, and preached in the evening at Wallingford. Wednesday 14, I went on to Oxford, and having an hour to spare, walked to Christ-Church, for which I cannot but still retain a peculiar affection. What lovely mansions are these! What is wanting to make the inhabitants of them happy ? That, without which no rational creature can be happy ; the experi mental knowledge of God. In the evening I preached at Finstock to a congregation gathered from many miles round. How gladly could I spend a few weeks in this delightful solitude ! But I must not rest yet As long as God gives me strength to labour, I am to use it. Thursday 15, I preached at Witney. Since Nancy B. has been detained here, the work of God has greatly revived. Myste- NOV. 1778.] KEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 27 rious Providence ! That one capable of being so extremely useful, should be thus shut up in a corner ! Friday 16, I was desired to preach at Thame, on my return to London. I came thither a little after ten. The mob had been so troublesome there, that it was a doubt with the preachers whether the place should not be given up. However, I thought it might not he amiss, before this was done, to make one trial myself: but I found it impracticable to preach abroad, the wind being so exceedingly sharp. I went therefore into a large building, formerly used by the presby terians. It was quickly filled, and more than filled, many being obliged to stand without: yet there was no breath of noise; the whole congregation seemed to be " all but their attention dead." We had prayed before, that God would give us a quiet time, and he granted us our request. Immediately after, a strange scene occurred. I was desired to visit one who had been eminently pious, but had now been confined to her bed for several months, and was utterly unable to raise herself up. She desired us to pray, that the chain might be broken. A few of us prayed in faith. Presently she rose up, dressed herself, came down stairs, and, I believe, had not any farther complaint. In the evening I preached at High- Wycombe, and on Saturday return ed to London. Monday 19, About noon I reached Mr. Fary's, near Little Brick- hill. I designed to preach in the house ; but the number of people obliged me to preach abroad, in spite of the keen east winds. Tues day 20, I preached about noon at Hanslope ; and in the evening at Moreton, near Buckingham. Wednesday 21, I preached about noon at Silston, (properly Silverstone,) and then walked with a company of our friends to Whittlebury. This is the flower of all our societies in the circuit, both for zeal and simplicity. Thursday 22, I preach ed at Towcester ; on Friday at Northampton, and on Saturday re turned to London. Monday 26, I set out in the Diligence to Godmanchester, hoping to be there by six in the evening : but we did not come till past eight ; so most of the people being gone, I only gave a. short exhorta tion. At. five in the morning we had a large congregation, but a much larger in the evening. Wednesday 28, about noon, I preach ed at St. Neot's, and afterwards visited a lovely young woman, who appeared to be in the last stage of a consumption, and was feebly gasping after God. She seemed to be just ripe for the gospel, which she drank in with all her soul. God speedily brought her to the blood of sprinkling, and a few days after, she died in peace. I preached in the evening at Bedford, and the next day, Thursday 29, at Luton. We had a miserable preaching-house here: but Mr. Cole has now fitted up a very neat and commodious room, which was thoroughly filled with well behaved and deeply attentive hearers. How long did we seem to be ploughing upon the sand here ! But it seems there will be some fruit at last. Friday 30, I preached at noon to fifty or sixty dull creatures, at 2S kev. john wesley's journal. [nov. 177i>. poor, desolate Hertford ; and they heard with something like serious ness. In the afternoon I went on to London. Sunday, November 1, Was the day appointed for opening the new chapel in the City Road. It is perfectly neat, but not fine; and con tains far more people than the Foundery : I believe, together with the morning chapel, as many as the Tabernacle. Many were afraid that the, multitudes crowding from all parts would have occasioned much disturbance : but they were happily disappointed : there was none at all; all was quietness, decency, and order. I preached on part of Solomon's Prayer at the Dedication of the Temple, and both in the morning and afternoon, (when I preached on the Hund red, forty and four thousand standing with the Lamb on Mount Sion,) God was eminently present in the midst of the congregation. Monday 2, I went to Chatham, and preached in the evening to a lively, loving congregation. Tuesday 3, I went by water to Sheer- ness. Our room being far too small for the people that attended, I sent to the governor to desire (what had been allowed me before) the use of the chapel. He refused me, (uncivilly enough,) affecting to doubt whether I was in orders ! so I preached, to as many as it would contain, in our own room. Wednesday 4, I took a view of the old church at Minster, once a spacious and elegant building. It stands pleasantly on the top of a hill, and commands all the country round. We went from thence to Queensborough, which contains above fifty houses, and sends two members to parliament. Surely the whole Isle of Sheepy is now but a shadow of what it was once. Thursday 5, I returned to Chatham, and on the following morn ing set out in the stage-coach for London. At the end of Stroud, I chose to walk up the hill, leaving the coach to follow me : but it was in no great haste : it did not overtake me till I had walked above five miles. I cared not if it had been ten : the more I walk, the sounder I sleep. Sunday 15, Having promised to preach in the evening at St. An- tholine's church, I had desired one to have a coach ready at the door, when the service at the new chapel was ended: but he had forgot; so that after preaching and meeting the society, I was obliged to walk as fast as I could to the church. The people were so wedded together, that it was with difficulty I got in. The church was extremely hot; but this I soon forgot ; for it pleased God to send a gracious rain upon his inheritance. Thursday 26, I fulfilled the dying request of Ann Thwayte, by burying her remains, and preaching her funeral sermon. In all the changes of those about her she stood steadfast, doing and suffering the will of God : she was a woman of faith and prayer, in life and death adorning the doctrine of God her Saviour. Sunday 29, I was desired to preach a charity sermon in St Luke's church, Old-street. I doubt whether it was ever so crowded before : and the fear of God seemed to possess the whole audience. In the afternoon I preached at the new chapel : and at seven in St. Marga- dec. 1778.] rev. john wesley's journal. 29 ret's, Rood-lane, full as much crowded as St. Luke's. Is then the scandal of the cross ceased ? Tuesday, December 1, I went to Rye. Here, as in many other places, those who begin to flee from the wrath to come, are continu ally received to doubtful disputations ; puzzled and perplexed with intricate questions concerning absolute and unconditional decrees. Lord, how long wilt thou suffer this ? How long shall these well- meaning zealots destroy the dawning work of grace, and strangle the children in the birth ? Wednesday 2, In the evening I preached at Robert's-Bridge, and spoke with all possible plainness, both for the sake of threescore children, and of a large congregation of serious, attentive people. Thursday 3, many at Sevenoaks seemed deeply affected, while I was applying those words, Do you now believe? especially while I was reminding them of the deep work which God wrought among them twelve or fourteen years ago. Friday, going on to Shoreham, I found Mr. Perronet once more brought back from the gates of death ; undoubtedly for the sake of his little flock ; who avail themselves of his being spared too, and continually increase not only in number, but in the knowledge and love of God. Sunday 6, I buried the remains of Merchant West, snatched away in the midst of his years. From a child he had the fear of God, and was serious and unblamable in his behaviour. When he was a jour neyman, he was reverenced by all that wrought in the shop with him : he was a pattern of diligence in all things, spiritual and temporal. During a long and severe illness, his patience was unshaken, till he joyfully resigned his spirit to God. Monday 7, I took a little journey to Canterbury and Dover, and was much comforted among a loving, earnest people. Friday 11, I preached at Lambeth, in the chapel newly prepared by Mr. Edwards, whose wife has seventy-five boarders. Miss Owen, at Publow, takes only twenty, thinking she cannot do her duty to any more. Friday 18, I called upon Colonel Gallatin. But what a change is here ! The fine gentleman, the soldier, is clean gone, sunk into a fee ble, decrepit old man ; not able to rise off his seat, and hardly able to speak. Sunday 20, I buried what was mortal of honest Silas Told. For many years he attended the malefactors in Newgate, without fee or reward : and, I suppose, no man for this hundred years has been so successful in that melancholy office. God had given him peculiar talents for it; and he had amazing success therein. The greatest part of those whom he attended died in peace, and many of them in the triumph of faith. Friday, (Christmas-day,) our service began at four, as usual, in the new chapel. I expected Mr. Richardson to read prayers at West- street chapel, but he did not come ; so I read prayers myself, and preached, and administered the sacrament to several hundreds of peo pie. In the afternoon I preached at the new chapel, throughly filled in every corner; and in the evening at St. Sepulchre's, one of the largest parish-churches in London. It was warm enough, being suf- SO rev. john Wesley's journal. [feb. 1779. ficiently filled : yet I felt no weakness or weariness, but was stronger after I had preached my fourth sermon than I was after the first. Thursday 31, We concluded the old year with a solemn watch- night, and began the new with praise and thanksgiving. We had a violent storm at night: the roaring of the wind was like loud thunder. It kept me awake half an hour: I then slept in peace. Friday, January 1, 1779, At length we have a house capable of containing the whole society. We met there this evening, to renew our covenant with God : and we never meet on that solemn occasion without a peculiar blessing. Tuesday 12, I dined and drank tea with four German ministers. I could not but admire the wisdom of those that appointed them. They seem to consider, not only the essential points, their sense and piety, but even those smaller things, the good breeding, the address, yea, the persons of those they send into foreign countries. Sunday 24, I visited a young woman in such terrible fits as I scarcely ever saw before : and she was hardly out of one, when she fell into another, so that it seemed she must soon lose her reason, if not her life : but Dr. Wilson, in one or two days' time, restored her to perfect health. Monday, February 8, Finding many serious persons were much discouraged by prophets of evil confidently foretelling very heavy calamities, which were coming upon our nation, I endeavoured to lift up their hands, by opening and applying those comfortable words, Psalm xliii. 5, 6. Why art thou so heavy, O my soul? Why art thou so disquieted within me ? O put thy trust in God : for I will yet give him thanks, who is the help of my countenance and my God. Wednesday 10, Was the national fast. So solemn a one I never saw before. From one end of the city to the other, there was scarcely any one seen in the streets. All places of public worship were crowded in an uncommon degree; and an unusual awe sat on most faces. I preached on the words of God to Abraham, interceding for Sodom, I will not destroy the city for ten's sake. Monday 15, I went to Norwich in the stage-coach, with two very disagreeable companions, called a gentleman and a gentlewoman, but equally ignorant, insolent, lewd, and profane. Wednesday 17, 1 went to Yarmouth, and preached to a large and serious congregation. Thursday 18, I preached at Lowestoffe, where is a great awakening, especially among youth and children ; several of whom, between twelve and sixteen years of age, are a pattern to all about them. Friday 19, I preached at Loddon, and afterwards talked with a girl, sixteen years of age. She was justified two months since, and has not yet lost the light of God's countenance for a moment' but has been enabled to rejoice evermore, and to pray without ceas ing. But being surrounded with relations who neither loved nor feared God, they were pressing upon her continually, till by little and little she sunk back into the world, and had neither the power nor form of religion left. Sunday 21, I returned to Norwich, and took an exact account of MARCH, 1779.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 31 the society. I wish all our preachers would be accurate in their ac counts, and rather speak under than above the truth. I had heard again and again of the increase of the society. And what is the naked truth ? Why, I left in it two hundred and two members : and I find one hundred and seventy-nine! Sunday 21, at twelve I took coach, and in the morning reached London. Sunday 28, Immediately after preaching at Spitalfields, I hasted away to St. Peter's, Cornhill, and declared to a crowded congrega tion, God hath given us his Holy Spirit. At four I preached in the new chapel, for the benefit of the Reformation Society. This also I trust will be a means of uniting together the hearts of the children of God of various denominations. Monday, March 1, I went to Bristol. Thursday 4, 1 went over to Paulton, and preached at noon to the liveliest people in all the cir cuit. This people are now just of the same spirit as those of Bristol were forty years ago. Thursday 11, I opened the new chapel at Bath : it is about half as large as that at London, and built nearly upon the same model. Af ter reading prayers, I preached on, We preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumbling block, and to the Greeks foolishness. I be lieve God sent his word home to many hearts. We concluded the service with the Lord's-Supper. Monday 15, 1 began my tour through England and Scotland: the lovely weather continuing, such as the oldest man alive has not seen before, for January, February, and half of March. In the evening I preached at Stroud ; the next morning at Gloucester, designing to preach in Stanley at two, and at Tewksbury in the evening: but the minister of Gratton (near Stanley) sending me word, I was welcome to the use of his church ; I ordered notice to be given, that the service would begin there at six o'clock. Stanley chapel was thoroughly filled at two. It is eighteen years since I was there before ; so that many of those whom I saw there then, were now grey-headed ; and many were gone to Abraham's bosom. May We follow them as they did Christ ! I was preparing to go to Gratton, when one brought me word from Mr. Roberts, that he had changed his mind ; so I preached in Mr. Stephen's orchard, to far more than his church would have contained. And it was no inconvenience either to me or them, as it was a mild, still evening. Wednesday 17, 1 preached at Tewksbury about noon, and at Wor cester in the evening. Thursday 18, upon inquiry, I found there had been no morning preaching since the Conference ! So the peo ple were of course weak and faint. At noon I preached in Bewdley, in an open space, at the head of the town, to a very numerous and quiet congregation. Here Mrs. C informed me, " This day twelve-month I found peace with God : and the same day my son, till then utterly thoughtless, was convinced of sin. Some time after he died, rejoicing in God, and praising him with his latest breath." Friday 19, I preached in Bengeworth church about noon, and about six in Pebworth church. Saturday 20, I went on to Birming- vol. 4.— D 32 rev. john wesley's journal. [ajril, 1779. ham. Sunday 21, just at the time of preaching, at Bromwich-heath, began such a storm as that which ushered in the year: yet, as no house could contain the people, I was constrained to stand in the court-yard. For a moment I was afraid of the tiles falling on 'the people; but they regarded nothing but the word. As I concluded, we had a furious shower of hail: hitherto could the prince of the power of the air go, but no farther. After preaching at Wednesbury, Darlaston, Dudley, and Wolver hampton, on Wednesday 24, I went on to Madeley. In the way I finished a celebrated " Essay on Taste." And is this the treatise that gained the premium? It is lively and pretty, but neither deep nor strong : scarcely any of the terms are accurately defined ; indeed defining is not this author's talent. He has not by any means a clear apprehension ; and it is through this capital defect, that he jumbles together true and false propositions, in every chapter and in every page. To this essay three extracts are subjoined : the 'first is much to the purpose : the second is a superficial, empty thing. Is this a speci men of " the great Mr. Alembert ?" But I was most surprised at the third. What, is this extracted from " the famous Montesquieu ?" It has neither strength, nor clearness, nor justness of thought ! And, is this the writer so admired all over Europe ? He is no more to be compared to Lord Forbes, or Dr. Beattie, than a mouse to an ele phant. Thursday 25, I preached in the new house, which Mr. Fletcher has built in Madeley Wood. The people here exactly resemble those at Kingswood, only they are more simple and teachable : but, for want of discipline, the immense pains which he has taken with them has not done the good which might have been expected. I preached at Shrewsbury in the evening : and on Friday 26, about noon, in the assembly-room at Brosely. It was well we were in the shade, for the sun shone as hot as it usually does at midsummer. We walked from thence to Coalbrook-Dale, and took a view of the bridge which is shortly to be thrown over the Severn. It is one arch, a hundred feet broad, fifty -two high, and eighteen wide, all of cast- iron, weighing many hundred tons. I doubt whether the Colossus of Rhodes weighed much more. Saturday 27, I preached at Newcastle -under- Lyme. Sunday 28, atBurslem, morning and afternoon. Monday 29, I went on to our loving brethren at Congleton, and preached on the nature of christian zeal : a measure of this they have already, but they want much more. Tuesday 30, and the next day, I preached at Macclesfield. The hearts of many were enlarged : and the society, I found was increas ing both in number and strength. Thursday, April 1, About one, I preached at New-Mills, in Der byshire: a commodious preaching-house, lately built, has proved a blessing to the whole country: they flocked together from every quarter, and are thankful, both to God and man. In the evening! preached at Stockport, where I received a strange account of poor William Hamilton, who left us to join the Quakers, and is as miser- April, 1779.] rev. john wesley's journal. 33 able as he can live, afraid to see any man lest he should kill him. 0 what a poor exchange has this unhappy man made ! April 2, About one I opened the new chapel at Davyholme. Sun day 4, Easter-day, was a solemn festival. In the afternoon I preach ed at Oldham*, to such a congregation as I have not seen since I was in the Cornish amphitheatre : and all, besides a few giddy children, were seriously attentive. Monday 5, I preached at Norwich. I used to go on from hence to Little Leigh : but since Mr. Barker is gone hence, that place knows us no more. I cannot but wonder at the infatuation of men that really love and fear God, and yet leave great part of it, if not all their substance, to men that neither love nor fear him ! Surely if I did little good with my money while I lived, I would, at least, do good with it when I could live no longer. Tuesday 6, I went to Mr. S 's,, atNantwich, a nephew of Mr. Matthew S , who was fifty, years ago, one of our little company at Oxford, and was then both in person, in natural temper, and in piety, one of the loveliest young men I knew. Mr, Joseph S was then unborn, and was for many years without God in the world: but he is now as zealous in the works of God as he was once in the works of the devil. While I preached it was a season of strong con solation; but one young gentlewoman refused to be comforted. She followed me into, Mr. S 's all in tears, but would, neither touch meat nor drink. After I had spent a little time in prayer, she broke out into prayer herself. And she did not cease till God turned her sorrow into joy unspeakable. After preaching at; Alpraham and Chester, on Wednesday I went on to Warrington* The proprietor of the new chapel had sent me word, that I was welcome to preach in it; but he had now altered his mind; so L preached in our own, and I saw not one inattentive hearer. I preached at Liverpool in the evening and the next day ; at Wi- gan on Friday; on Saturday and Sunday, at. Bolton. Monday 12, I preached at Btiry about one, and in the evening at Rochdale : now was the day of visitation for this town: the people were all on fire. Never was such a flame kindled here before, chiefly by the prayeiv meeting scattered through the town. Tuesday 13, I preached at nine to a crowded audience in, the new house, at Bacup ; at one, in the shell of the house at Paddiham, where there is at length a prospect of peace, after abundance of disturbance caused by one, who neither fears God nor reverences man. In the evening I preached at Colne ; but the people were still in such a panic, that few durst go into the left-hand, gallery. Wednesday 14, after a delightful ride through the mountains, I preached first in Todmorden, and then in Hepton- stall church. I afterwards lodged at the Ewood, which I still love, for good Mr. Grimshaw's sake. Thursday 15, I went to Halifax, where a little thing had late oc casioned great disturbance. An angel blowing a trumpet, was placed on the sounding-board over the pulpit. Many were vehemently against this : others as vehemently, for. it : but a total end was soon 34 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [APRIL, 1779. put to the contest, for the angel vanished away. The congregations* morning and evening, were very large ; and the work of God seems to increase, in depth as well as extent. Sunday 18, In the morning I preached in Haworth church ; but in the afternoon, I could not ; thousands upon thousands were gather ed together, so that I was obliged to stand in the church-yard. And, I believe, ail that stood still, were able to hear distinctly. Monday 19, I preached in Bingley church to a numerous congre gation. I dined with Mr. Busfield, in his little paradise ; but it can give no happiness, unless God is there. Thence I went to Otley. Here also the work of God increases, particularly with regard to sanctification. And I think every one who has experienced it, retains a clear witness of what God has wrought. Thursday 22, I was a little surprised at a passage in Dr. Smollet's History of England, vol. xv. pp. 121, 122. " Imposture and fanaticism, still hang upon the skirts of religion. Weak minds were seduced by the delusions of a superstition, stiled Methodism, raised upon the affectation of superior sanctity, and pretensions to divine illumination. Many thousands were infected with this enthusiasm, by the endeavours of a few, obscure preachers such as Whitefield, and the two Wesleys, who found means to lay the whole kingdom under contribution." Poor Dr. Smollet ! Thus to transmit to all succeeding generations a whole heap of notorious falsehoods ! " Imposture and fanaticism .'" Neither one nor the other had any share in the late revival of scriptural religion, which is no other than the love of God and man, gratitude to our Creator, and good will to our fellow-creatures. Is this delusion and superstition ? No it is real wisdom ; it is solid virtue. Does this fanaticism " hang upon the skirts of religion ?" Nay, it is the very essence of it. Does the Doctor call this enthusiasm ? Why ? Because he knows nothin°- about it. Who told him that these " obscure preachers made preten sions to divine illumination ?" How often has that silly calumny been refuted, to the satisfaction of all candid men ? However they " found means to lay the whole kingdom under contribution." So does this frontless man, blind and bold, stumble on without the least shadow of truth. Mean time what faith can be given to his history ? What credit can any man of reason give, to any fact, upon his authority ? In travelling this week, I looked over Baron Swedenborg's account of heaven and hell. He was a man of piety, of a strong understand ing, and most lively imagination. But he had a violent fever when he was five-and-fifty years old, which quite overturned his under standing. Nor did he ever recover it; but it continued "majestic though in rums." From that time he was exactly in the state of that gentleman at Argos, " Qui se credebat miros audire tragsedos, In vacuo lastus sessor, plausorq ; theatro." " Who wond'rous tragedies was wont to hear Sitting alone in th' empty theatre." APRIL, 1779.] HEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 35 His words, therefore, from that time, were segri somnia, the dreams of a disordered imagination ; just as authentic as " Quevedo's Visions of Hell." Of this work in particular I must observe, that the doctrine contained therein, is not only quite unproved, quite preca rious, from beginning to end, as depending entirely on the assertion of a single, brain-sick man ; but that in many instances, it is contra dictory to Scripture, to reason, and to itself. But over and above this, it contains many sentiments that are essentially and dangerously wrong. Such is that concerning the Trinity, for he roundly affirms God to be only one person who was crucified ; so that he revives and openly asserts the long-exploded heresy of the Sabellians and Patri- passians; yea, and that of the Anthropomorphites, affirming, that God constantly appears in heaven in the form of a man. And the worst is, he flatly affirms, " None can go to heaven who believes there are three persons in the Godhead ;" which is more than the most violent Arian or Socinian ever affirmed befare. Add to this, that his ideas of heaven are low, grovelling, just suit ing a Mahometan paradise : and his account of it has a natural ten dency to sink our conceptions, both of the glory of heaven and of the inhabitants of it; whom he describes as far inferior, both in ho liness and happiness, to Gregory Lopez, or Monsieur De Renty. And his account of hell leaves nothing terrible in it: for, first, he quenches the unquenchable fire. He assures us there is no fire there : only he allows that the governor of it, the devil, sometimes orders the spirits that behave ill, to be " laid on a bed of hot ashes." And, secondly, he informs you, that all the damned enjoy their favourite pleasures. He that delights in filth, is to have his filth ; yea, and his harlot too ! Now how dreadful a tendency must this have, in such an age and nation as this ? I wish those pious men, Mr. Clowes and Clotworty, would calmly consider these things, before they usher into the world any more of this mad-man's dreams. Monday 26, I preached at Huddersfield, where there is a great re vival of the work of God. Many have found peace with God : sometimes sixteen, eighteen, yea twenty in one day. So that the deadly wound they suffered, when their predestinarian brethren left them, is now fully healed ; and they are not only more lively, but more in number than ever they were before. Tuesday 27, I saw a melancholy sight indeed ! one that ten years ago was clearly perfected in love, but was worried by Mr. , day and night, threaping him down, "he was in a delusion," that at length it drove him stark mad : and so he continues to this day. Ob serve ! it was not perfection that drove this man mad, but the inces sant teasing him with doubtful disputations. Wednesday 28, I had promised to preach at six in the morning, to the poor prisoners at Whiteley. Though the ground was covered with snow, so many people flocked together, that I was constrained to preach in the court of the prison. The snow continued to fall, and the north wind to whistle round us : but, I trust, God warmed many hearts. I preached at Wakefield in the evening. Thursday 29, at Roth- 36 bev. john wbsley's journal. [may, 1779. well and Leeds, and on Friday noon at Harewood. In the afternoon we walked to Mr. Lascelles' house. It is finely situated on a little eminence, commanding a. most delightful prospect of hill and dale, and wood and: water. It is built of a, fine white stone, with two gj-and and. beautiful fronts. I was not much struck with any thing within. There is too much sameness in all the great houses, I have seen in England : two rows of large, square rooms, with costly beds, glasses,.chairs, and tables: but here is a profusion of wealth ; every pane Qf glass, we were informed, cost six-and-twenty shillings; one looking-glass, cost five hundred pounds, and one bed, six hundred. The whole floor was just on the plan of Montaguerhouse, now the British. Museum. The grounds round the house are pleasant, indeed, particularly the walks on the river side, and through the woods. But what has the owner thereof, save the beholding them, with his eyes ! Saturday, May 1, I looked over the first volume of Mr. Bryant's " Ancient Mythology." He seems to be a person of immense read ing, and indefatigable industry : but I have two objections to the whple work : 1, That his discoveries being built chiefly on etymo logies, carry no certainty in them. 2, That were they ever so cer tain, they are of no consequence. For instance : whether Chiron was a man or a mountain, and whether the Cyclops were giants or watch- towers, are points of no manner of importance either to me or any man living. Sunday 2, Dr. Kershaw, the vicar of Leeds, desired me to assist him at the sacrament. It was a solemn season. We were ten clergy men,, and seven or eight hundred communicants. Mr. Atkinson de sired me to preach in the afternoon. Such a congregation had been seldom seen there : hut I preached to a much larger in our own house at five ; and I found: no want of strength. Friday 7, After having visited the intermediate societies, I came to Darlington, and found some of the liveliest people in the north of England. All but one or two of the society are justified ; great part of them partakers of the great salvation ; and all of them seem to re tain their first simplicity, and to be as teachable as little children. Sunday 9, I preached in the market-place, and all the congrega tion behaved well, but a party of the queen's dragoons. Monday 10, 1 preached at Barnard-castle, and saw a quite different behaviour in the Durham militia, the handsomest body of soldiers I ever saw except in Ireland. The next evening they all came, both officers and soldiers, and were a pattern to the whole congregation. In my journey to Brough, (where I preached at noon,) I read over a vol ume of Dr. Blair's sermons. He is an elegant, but not a deep wri ter ; much resembling, but not equalling, Mr. Seed. I do not re member that any day in January, February, or March, was nearly so cold as this. Wednesday 12, After preaching at Cuthburton and in Teesdale, I went a little out ofmy way to see one of the wonders of nature. The river Tees -rushes down between two rocks, and falls sixty feet per pendicular, into a bason of water sixty feet deep. In tbe evening I JUNE, 1779.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. S7 preached to the lovely congregation in Weardale, and the ilext'diry went on to Newcastle. Sunday 16, I preached at Gateshead-Fell in the morning, and in the new house, near Sheephill, at noon. Here the work Of God greatly revives : many have been lately convinced of sin ; and many are enabled from day to day to rejoice in God their Saviour. Monday 17, About noon I preached at Shields, and in the evening at Sunderland. Tuesday 18, 1 read prayers and preached in Monk- Wearmouth church, and Thursday 20, returned to Newcastle. Sun day 23, in the morning I preached at Ballast-hills ; about two, at the Fell ; about five, at the Garth-heads. The congregation was double to that at the Fell ; and, I trust, God gave us a double blessing. Monday 24, 1 preached at five in the orphan-house; about nine at Placey ; at noon in the market-house at Morpeth. Many soldiers who were marching through the town, came in ; and the power of the Lord was present to heal. In the evening I preached in the court-house at Alnwick, and at night was no more tired than in the morning. Tuesday 25, We Walked through the castle. Two of the rooms are more elegant than even those at Harewood-house. But it is not a profusion of ornaments; (they are exceedingly plain and simple) it is not an abundance of gold and silver, but a je ne scat quoi that strikes every person of taste. In the evening I preached in the town-hall at Berwick. Many officers as well as soldiers were there : and the whole congregation seemed much affected. Shall ive see fruit at Berwick also ? Wed nesday 26, we had such a congregation at Dunbar as I have not seen there for many years. Thursday 27, I went on to Edinburgh. I was agreeably surprised at the singing in the evening. I have not heard such female voices, so strong and clear, any where in England. Friday 28, 1 went to Glasgow, and preached in the house ; but the next evening by the river-side. Sunday 30, at seven I spoke exceed ingly strong words in applying the Parable of the Sower. In the afternoon I went on to English chapel : but how was I surprised ! Such decency have I seldom seen even at West-street, or the new- room in Bristol. 1, All, both men and women, were dressed plain : I did not see one high head. 2, No one took notice of any one, at coming in; but after a short ejaculation, sat quite still. 3, None spoke to any one during the service, nor looked either on one side or the other. 4, All stood, every man, woman, and child, while the psalms were sung. 5, Instead of an unmeaning voluntary, was an anthem, and one of the simplest and sweetest I ever heard. 6, The prayers, preceding a sound, useful sermon, were seriously and de voutly read. 7, After service, none bowed, or curtsied, or spoke, but went quietly and silently away. After church I preached again by the river-side to a great multitude of serious people ; I believe, full as many more as we had the Sun day before at Newcastle. Surely we shall not lose all our labour here. Monday 31, I returned to Edinburgh, and June 1, set out on my 38 rev. john wesley's journal. [june, 1779, northern journey. In the evening I preached at Dundee. The con gregation was, as usual, very large and deeply attentive : but that was all: I did not perceive that any one was affected at all. I ad mire this people! So decent: so serious: and so perfectly uncon cerned ! Wednesday 2, We went on to Arbroath, where was nearly as large a congregation as at Dundee, but nothing so serious; the poor Glassites here, pleading for a merely notional faith, greatly hinder either the beginning or the progress of any real work of God. Thurs day 3, I preached at Aberdeen, to a people that can feel as well as hear. Friday 4, I set out for Inverness, and about eight preached at Inverary, to a considerable number of plain, country people, just like those we see in Yorkshire. My spirit was much refreshed among them, observing several of them in tears. Before we came to Strathbogie, (now new-named Huntly,) Mr. Brackenbury was much faligued : so I desired him to go into the chaise, and rode forward to Keith. Mr. Gordon the minister, invited us to drink tea at his house. In the evening I went to the market-place. Four children, after they had stood a-while to consider, ventured to come near me : then a few men and women crept forward, till we had upwards of a hun dred. At nine, on Sunday 6, I suppose they were doubled, and some of them seemed a little affected. I dined at Mr. Gordon's, who be haved in the most courteous, yea, and affectionate manner. At three I preached in the kirk, one of the largest I have seen in the king dom, but very ruinous. It was thoroughly filled, and God was there in an uncommon manner. He sent forth his voice, yea, and that a mighty voice, so that, I believe, many of the stout-hearted trembled. In the evening I preached once more in the market-place, on those awful words, Where the worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. Monday 7, I came to Grange-Green, near Forres, about twelve o'clock : but I found the house had changed its master since I was here before, nine years ago. Mr. Grant, (who then lived here in his brother's house,) was now Sir Lodowick Grant, having succeed ed to the title and estate of Sir Alexander, dying without issue : but his mind was not changed with his fortune ; he received me with cor dial affection, and insisted on my .sending for Mrs. Smith and her little girl, whom I had left at Forres. We were all here as at home, in one of the most healthy and most pleasant situations in the king dom ; and I had the satisfaction to observe my daughter sensibly re covering her strength, almost every hour. In the evening all the family were called into prayers, to whom I first expounded a portion of Scripture. Thus ended this comfortable day. So has God pro vided for us in a strange land. Tuesday 8, I found another hearty welcome from Mr. Dunbar the minister of Nairn. A little after ten I preached in his kirk which was full from end to end. I have seldom seen a Scotch con gregation so sensibly affected : indeed, it seemed that God smote the rocks, and brake the hearts of stone in pieces. june, 1779.] rev. john wesley's journal. 39 In the afternoon I reached Inverness, but found a new face of things there. Good Mr. Mackenzie had been for some years remov ed to Abraham's bosom. Mr. Fraser, his colleague, a pious man, of the old stamp, was likewise gone to rest. The three present min isters are of another kind; so that I have no more place in the kirk: and the wind and rain would not permit me to preach on the green : however, our house was large, though gloomy enough. Being now informed, (which I did not suspect before,) that the town was un commonly given to drunkenness, I used the utmost plainness of speech, and, I believe, not without effect. I then spent some time with the society, increased from twelve to between fifty and sixty: many of these know in whom they have believed; and many are go- ing on to perfection : so that all the pains which have been taken to stop the work of God here, have hitherto been in vain. Wednesday 9, We had another rainy day, so that I was again driven into the house: and again 1 delivered my own sOul, to a larger congregation than before. In the morning we had an affectionate parting, perhaps, to meet no more. I am glad, however, that I have made three journies to Inverness. It has net been lost labour. Between ten and eleven, I began preaching at Nairn. The house was pretty well filled again; and many more of the gentry were there, than were present on Tuesday. It. pleased God to give me again liberty of speech, in opening and applying those words, God is a spirit, and they that worship him, must worship him in spirit and in truth. About two we reached Sir Lodowick Grant's. In the evening we had a very serious congregation. Afterwards I spent an hour very agreeably with the family, and two or three neighbouring gentlemen. Friday 11, We did not stop at Keith, but went on to Strathbogie. Here we were in a clean, convenient house, and had every thing we wanted. All the family very willingly joined us in prayer. We then slept in peace. Saturday 12, About one, I preached at Inverary, to a larger con gregation than before, and was again refreshed with the simplicity and earnestness of the plain country people. In the evening I preach ed at Aberdeen. Sunday 13, I spoke as closely as I could, both morning and evening, and made a pointed application to the hearts of all that were present. I am convinced this is the only way whereby we can do any good in Scotland. This very day I heard many ex cellent truths delivered in the kirk ; but as there was no application, it was likely to do as much good as the singing of a lark. I wonder the pious ministers in Scotland are not sensible of this. They cannot but see that, no sinners are convinced of sin, none converted to God, by this way of preaching. How strange it is then, that neither rea son nor experience teaches them to take a better way ! Monday 14, I preached again at Arbroath; Tuesday 15, at Dun dee, and Wednesday 16, at Edinburgh. Thursday 17, I examined the society. In five years I found five members had been gained : ninety-nine being increased to a hundred and four. What then have our preachers been doing all this time! 1, They have prea/ned vol. 4/^-E 40 rev. john Wesley's journal. [june, 1779. four evenings in the week, and on Sunday mornings: the other morn ings they have fairly given up. 2, They have taken great care not to speak too plainly, lest they should give offence. 3, When Mr. Brackenbury preached the old Methodist doctrine, one of them said, " You must not preach such doctrine here. The doctrine of Per fection is not calculated for the meridian of Edinburgh." Waving then all other hinderance, is it any wonder that the work of God has not prospered here? On Friday and Saturday I preached with all possible plainness; and some appeared to be much stirred up. On Sunday 20, I preach ed at eight, and half an hour past twelve ; and God gave us a parting blessing. I was in hopes of preaching abroad at Dunbar in the evening; but the rain would not permit. Monday 21, I preached in the court house at Alnwick, and finding the people were greatly alarmed with the news of the French and Spanish fleets, I opened and applied, Say ye to the righteous, it shall be well with him. I believe, many laid hold on the promise, and were not a little comforted. Tuesday 22, Finding the panic had spread to Newcastle, I strong ly enforced those words, The Lord sitteth above the water-floods : the Lord remaineth a king for ever. Wednesday 23, I rested here. Lovely place ; and lovely company : but, I believe, there is another world : therefore, I must arise and go hence. Thursday 24, I preached at Stockton-upon-Tees at noon, and at Yarm in the evening. Friday 25, at two in the afternoon, I preach ed to a lovely congregation at Potto, and to such another at Hutton- Rudby. I was afterwards agreeably surprised in examining the se lect society. Many of them have been members thereof for nearly twenty years: and not one of them has lost the pure love of God, ever since they first received it. Saturday 26, After preaching at Stokesley and Gisborough, I went on to our loving, earnest brethren at Whitby ; just of the same spirit with those at Darlington, in the opposite point of the circuit. Sunday 27, I preached at eight in the room, and at five in the mar ket-place, to a large congregation: they were deeply attentive, but no more affected than the stones they stood upon. Monday 28, I preached in the new preaching-house at Robin Hood's-Bay, and then went on to Scarborough. Tuesday 29, I spent agreeably and profitably with my old friends ; and in my way to Bridlington, Wednesday 30, took a view of Flamborough-head ; it is a huge rock, rising perpendicular from the sea to an immense height, which gives shelter to an innumerable multitude of sea-fowl of various kinds. I preached in the evening at Bridlington, and afterwards heard a very uncommon instance of paternal affection. A gentleman of the town had a favourite daughter, whom he set up in a milliner's shop. Some time after she had a concern for her soul, and believed it her duty to enter into the society. Upon this her good father forbad her his house, demanding all the mony he had laid out, and required her instantly to sell all her goods, in order to make the payment ! july, 1779.] rev. John Wesley's journal. 41 In this journey I looked over the " History of Whitby," in which are many curious things. Among others, there is an account of St. Ninian, a monk of Whitby abbey, long before the Conquest. Here is also an account of the father of the Percy family ; he came over with William the Conqueror, and took his name from a town in Normandy. So the pretty tale of piercing the eye of the Scotch King proves to be mere invention ! Thursday, July 1, This was the first of eighteen or twenty days, full as hot as any I remember in Georgia : and yet the season is re markably healthy. I preached in Beverley at noon, and at Hull in the evening. Saturday 3, I reached Grimsby, and found a little trial. In this, and many other parts of the kingdom, those strip lings, who call themselves Lady Huntingdon's preachers, have great ly hindered the work of God. They have neither sense, courage, nor grace, to go and beat up the devil's quarters, in any place where Christ has not been named ; but wherever we have entered, as by storm, and gathered a few souls, often at the peril of our lives, they creep in, and, by doubtful disputations, set every one's sword against his brother. One of these has just crept into Grimsby, and is striv ing to divide the poor little flock : but I hope his labour will be in vain, and they will still hold the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Sunday 4, I had designed to preach abroad at Lowth, but the rain drove us into the house. In the evening I expounded, and strongly applied, the story of Dives and Lazarus. The whole congregation, except a few poor gentlemen, behaved with decency. Monday 5, I preached about eleven, at Langham-Row, to a con gregation gathered from many miles round, on How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts.' As a great part of them were athirst for perfect love, they drank in every word. In the after noon we went to Raithby : it is a small village, on the top of a hill. The shell of Mr. Brackenbury's house was just finished, near which he has built a little chapel. It was quickly filled with deeply seri ous hearers. I was much comforted among them, and could not but observe, while the landlord and his tenants were standing together, how " Love, like death, makes all distinctions void." Tuesday 6, After an absence of nearly twenty years, I once more visited poor Coningsby, and preached at eleven in the new preach ing-house, to a plain, simple people. In the evening I took my usual stand, in the market-place, at Horncastle. The wild men were more quiet than usual, I suppose, because they saw Mr. Brackenbury standing by me, whom they knew to be in commission for the peace for this part of the county. Wednesday 7, I preached at Sturton and Gainsborough ; and Thursday 8, at Scotter, where the poor people walk in the fear of God, and in the comforts of the Holy Ghost. In the evening I preached at Guston, and on Friday 9> went on to Epworth. How true is this trite remark, 42 key. john wesley's journal. [july, 1779; " Nescio qua natale solum dulcedine cunctos, Ducit, et immemores non sinet esse sui ."' " The natal soil to all, how strangely sweet ! The place where first he breath'd, who can forget ?" In the evening I took my usual stand in the market-place, but had far more than the usual congregation. Saturday 10, taking a solitary walk in the church-yard, I felt the truth of, One generation goeth, and another cometh. See how the earth drops its inhabitants as the tree drops its leaves. Sunday 11, About eight I preached at Misterton, and about one at Overthorpe; but good Alice Shadford was not there: she was long a mother in Israel, a burning and shining light, an unexceptionable instance of perfect love. After spending nearly a hundred years on earth, she was some months since transplanted to Paradise. So general an ouf-pouring of God's Spirit we had seldom known, as we had at Epworth in the afternoon. " Like mighty wind, or torrent fierce It did opposers all o'errun." 0 that they may no more harden their hearts, lest God should swear, They shall not enter into my rest ! Monday 12, I preached at Crowle, and afterwards searched the church-yard to find the tomb of Mr. Ashbourn : we could find noth ing of it there: at length we found a large flat stone in the church: but the inscription was utterly illegible, the letters being filled up- with dust : however, we made a shift to pick it out, and then read as follows : " Here lieth the body of Mr. Solomon Ashbourn. He died in 1771, and solemnly bequeathed the following verses to his pa rishioners : i " Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. — Acts vii. 51. " I have laboured in vain : I have spent my strength for nought, and in vain : yet surely my judgment is with the Lord, and my work with my God. — Isaiah xlix. 4." But that generation, which was abandoned to all wickedness, is gone ; so are most of their children : and there is reason to hope, that ' the curse entailed on them and their children is gone also ; for there is now a more lively work of God here than in any of the neigh bouring places. Tuesday 13, About noon I preached at Swinfleet, under the shade of some tall elms. At six in the evening I preached on the green at Thorne, to a multitude of people. The work of God goes on swiftly here ; many are awakened, many converted to God. Wednesday 14, I preached to an elegant congregation at Doncaster ; in the evening, to a numerous one at Rotherham. Thursday 15, 1 preached in Para dise-square, at. Sheffield, to the largest congregation I ever saw on a week day. Friday 16,1 preached in the evening at Derby, to many genteel and many plain people. Saturday 17, 1 preached at noon in aug. 1779.] rev. john wesley's journal. 43 Castle-Donnington, but in the open air, for there was no enduring the house : yet they persuaded me to preach within at Nottingham, in the evening; but the house was as hot as an oven. Sunday 18, I made shift to preach in the room at eight ; but at five I went to the Cross. We had a London congregation, and all as well behaved as if they had been in Moorfields. One who had left us, to join the Quakers, desired to be present at the love-feast ; in the close of which, being able to contain himself no longer, he broke out and declared, he must join us again. I went home with him, and after spending some time in prayer, left him full of love and thankfulness. Monday 19, At five our house was quite filled with people, and with the presence of God. Farewell, ye loving, lovely followers of the Lamb. May ye still adorn the doctrine of God your Saviour ! About nine I preached in the market-place at Loughborough; about noon at Griffy-dam ; and in the evening at Ashby. Tuesday 20, 1 preached in Markfield church about noon, and in the evening at Lie- cester, where we had an exceeding solemn time, while I described the Son of Man coming in his glory. Wednesday 21, The house was filled at five, and we had another solemn opportunity. About eight, calling at Hinckley, I vvas desired to preach ; as also at Forcell, ten or twelve miles farther. When I came to Coventry I found notice had been given for my preaching in the park, but the heavy rain prevented. I sent to the mayor, desir ing the use of the town-hall : he refused, but the same day gave the use of it to a dancing-master. I then went to the womens'-market. Many soon gathered together, and listened with all seriousness. I preached there again the next morning, Thursday 22, and again in the evening: then I took coach for London : I was nobly attended : behind the coach were ten convicted felons, loudly blaspheming and rattling their chains : by my side sat a man with a loaded blunder buss, and another upon the coach. Sunday 25, Both the chapels were full enough. On Monday I re tired to Lewisham to write. Tuesday, August 3, Our Conference began, which continued and ended in peace and love. Sunday 8, 1 was at West-street in the morn ing, and at the neWchapel in the evening, when I took a solemn leave of the affectionate congregation. This was the last night which I spent at the Foundry. What hath God wrought there in one-and-forty years ! AN EXTRACT OF THE JOURNAL, No. XIX. FROM AUGUST 9, 1779, TO SEPTEMBER 3, 1782. IfXONDAY, August 9, 1 set out for Wales, with my brother and his family. In the evening I preached at Oxford ; the next at Wit ney. Wednesday, we went on to Gloucester, where I preached with much satisfaction to a crowded audience. Thursday 12, we went on to Monmouth, where the late storm is blown over. I preached at six in the evening ; but did not observe one inattentive person then, any more than at five in the morning. Friday 13, As I was going down a steep pair of stairs, my foot slipped, and I fell down several steps : falling on the edge of one of them, it broke the case of an almanack, which was in my pocket, all to pieces : the edge of another stair met my right buckle, and snapt the steel chape of it in two ; but I was not hurt. So doth our good Master give his angels charge over us ! In the evening I preached at Brecknock, and, leaving my brother there, on Saturday 14, went for ward to Caermarthen. This evening, and in the morning, Sunday 16, the new preaching- house contained the congregation : but, in the afternnon, we had, I think, the largest congregation I ever saw in Wales. I preached on the Gospel for the day, the story of the Pharisee and the Publican ; and, I believe, many were constrained to cry out for the present, God, be merciful to me a sinner. Monday 16, In the evening I preached in the market-place again to a very serious congregation, many of whom were in tears, and felt the word of God to be sharper than a two-edged sword. Tuesday 17, Having some steep mountains to climb, I took a pair of post-horses. About four miles from the town, one of them began to kick and flounce, without any visible cause, till he got one of hi3 legs over the pole. Mr. Broadbent and I then came out of the chaise, and walked forward. While the drivers were setting the chaise right, aug. 1779.] rev. john wesley's journal* 45 the horses ran back almost to the town; so that we did not reach Llynguare till between two and three o'clock. Mr. Bowen was not returned from a journey to Glasgow ; however, I spent a very com fortable evening with Mrs. Bowen and the rest of the family. Wednesday 18, I preached about ten in Newport church, and then we went on to Haverford-West. Here we had a very different con gregation, both as to number and spirit ; and we found the society striving together for the hope of the gospel. Thursday 19, we went over to Fracoon, one of the loveliest places in Great Britain, The house stands in a deep valley, surrounded with tall woods, and them with lofty mountains : but as Admiral Vaughan was never married, this ancient family will soon come to an end. At two I preached in Newport church, and in the evening at Haverford. Friday 20, Many of us met at noon, and spent a solemn hour in intercession for our king and country. In the evening, the house was throughly filled with people of all denominations. I believe they all felt that God was there, and that he was no respecter of persons. Saturday 21, 1 went to Pembroke. Understanding that a large number of American prisoners were here, in the evening I took my stand over against the place where they were confined, so that they all could hear distinctly. Many of them seemed much affected. 0 that God may set their souls at liberty ! Sunday 22, Mr. Rees, a neighbouring clergyman, assisting me, I began at St. Daniel's between nine and ten. The congregation came from many miles round, and many of them were greatly refreshed. While we rode to Haverford after dinner, I think it was full as hot as it uses to be in, Georgia, till, about five o'clock, a violent shower exceedingly cooled the air : but it ceased in half an hour, and we had then such a congregation as was scarcely ever seen here before : and though many of the gentry were there, yet a solemn awe spread over the whole assembly. Monday 23, I came once more to Caermarthen. Finding the peo ple here, (as indeed in every place,) under a deep consternation, through the terrible reports which flew on every side, I cried aloud in the market-place, Say ye unto the righteous, it shall be well with him. God made it a word in season to them, and many were no longer afraid. Tuesday 24, Setting out immediately after preaching, about eight I preached at Kidwelly, about nine miles from Caermarthen, to a very civil and unaffected congregation. At eleven, though the sun was intensely hot, I stood at the end of the church-yard in Llanelly, and took occasion, from a passing bell, strongly to enforce those words, It is appointed unto men once to die. About six I preached atSwansey to a large congregation, without feeling any weariness. Wednesday 25, I preached at five, and about eight in the town- hall at Neath. In the afternoon I preached in the church near Bridge- end, to a larger congregation than I ever saw there before ; and at six in the town-hall at Cowbridge, much crowded, and hot enough. The heat made it a little more difficult to speak ; but, by the mercy 46 rev. john wesley's jouknal. [sept. 1779. of God, I was no more tired when I had done, than when I rose in the morning. Thursday 26, 1 preached at five, and again at eleven. I think this was the happiest time of all : the poor and the rich seemed to be equal ly affected. Oh ! how are the times changed at Cowbridge, since the people compassed the house where I was, and poured in stones from every quarter : but my strength was then according to toy day, and, (blessed be God!) so it is still. In the evening I preached in the large hall at Mr. Matthews' in Landaff. And will the rich also hear the words of eternal life ? With God all things are possible. Friday 27, I preached at Cardiff about noon, and at six in the evening. We then went on to Newport, and setting out early in the morning, reached Bristol in the afternoon. Sunday 29, I had a very large number of communicants. It was one of the hottest days I have known in England. The thermometer rose to eighty de grees : as high as it usually rises in Jamaica. Being desired to visit a dying man on Kingsdown, I had no time but at two o'clock. The sun shone without a cloud, so that I had a warm journey : but I was well repaid ; for the poor sinner found peace. At five I preached to an immense multitude in the square : and God comforted many drooping souls. Monday 30, I set out for the West, and in the evening preached at Taunton, on Walk worthy of the Lord. Tuesday 31, after preach ing at Collumpton about noon, in the evening I preached at Exeter, in a convenient room, lately a school : I suppose, formerly a chapel. It is both neat and solemn, and is believed to contain four or five hundred people. Many were present again at five in the morning, September 1, and found it a comfortable opportunity. Here a gentle man, just come from Plymouth, gave us a very remarkable account. " For two days the combined fleets of France and Spain lay at the mouth of the harbour. They might have entered in with perfect ease. The wind was fair : there was no fleet to oppose them : and the' island, which is the grand security of the place, being incapable of giving them any hinderance: for there was scarcely any garrison, and the few men that were there had no wadding at all, and but two rounds of powder. But had they not cannon? Yes, in abundance : but only two of them were mounted! Why then did they not go in, destroy the dock, and burn, or at least plunder the town ? I be lieve they cauld hardly tell themselves. The plain reason was, the bridle of God was in their teeth : and he had said, ' Hitherto shall ye come, and no farther.' " After preaching at Tiverton, Halberton, Taunton, and South-Brent in the way, on Saturday 4, 1 returned to Bristol. Sunday 5, Being willing to make the best of the fine weather, I preached at eight on the Quay, on The Lord sitteth above the wa ter-floods : the Lord remaineth a king for ever. At ten I began the service at Kingswood, and in the afternoon preached in the av enue to a multitude of people; but we had five or six times as many at King's-squarq : and great was our rejoicing in the Lord. OCT. 1779.] BEV. JOHN WESXEY's JOURNAL. 47 Monday 6, I preached on David's prayer, Lord, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness. And how remarkably has he heard this prayer with regard to the French Ahithophels ! Wednesday 8, I preached at Paulton, where the people are still all alive : and the society is still as one family: consequently it increases both in grace and number. At six I preached at Pensford, and spent a pleasant evening with the family at Publow. Where is there such another ? I eannot tell : I doubt, not in Great-Britain or Ireland. Sunday 12, I found it work enough to read prayers, and preach, and administer the sacrament to several hundreds of people : but it was comfortable work ; and I was no more tired at the end than at the beginning. Monday 13, 1 preached at Bath and Bradford : on Tuesday at the end of the new house at Frome. Wednesday 15, 1 preached at Mal- com and Shaftsbury : Thursday 16, at Shepton-Mallet. Here also, as well as at Paulton, (the two most unlikely places in the circuit,) a spreading flame is kindled. I preached at Coleford in the evening. Among this plain, simple people, the power of God is always present. Sunday 19, the rain would not suffer me to preach abroad. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday I examined the society, and found a large number had been called home this year. A few are still tottering over the grave: but death has lost its sting. Thursday 23, I preached in the afternoon near the Fishponds. The people here had been remarkably dead for many years; but since that saint of God, Bathsheba Hall, with her husband, came among them, a flame is broke out : the people flocked together in troops, and are athirst for all the promises of God. In the evening one sat behind me in the pulpit at Bristol, who was one of our first masters at Kingswood. A little after he left the school he likewise left the society : riches then flowed in upon him : with which, having no relations, Mr. Spenser designed to do much o-ood — after his death. But God said unto him, Thou fool ! Two hours after, he died intestate, and left all his money to — be scram bled for! Reader! If you have not done it already, make your will before* you sleep! Friday 24, James Gerrish, junior, of Road, near Frome, was, for several years, zealous for God : but he too grew rich, and grew luke warm, till he was seized with a consumption. At the approach of death he was horribly afraid ; he was in the lowest darkness and in the deep : but he cried unto God in his trouble, and was delivered out of his distress. He was filled with peace and joy unspeakable, and so continued till he went to God. His father desired I would preach his funeral sermon, which I accordingly did this day at Road. I concluded the busy day with a comfortable watch-night at Kings- wood. , , Monday 27, I preached at Pill. On Wednesday I opened the new chapel in Guinea-street Thursday 30, I preached at Amesbu- ry, on Communion with God, while deep awe sat on the face ot all the people. Friday, October 1, 1 took a solemn leave of the children vol. 4.— F 4B REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [OCT. 1779. at Kingswood. Several of them have been convinced of sin again and again ; but they spon trifled their conviction away. Sunday 3, I preached once more in the square, to a multitude of people ; and af terward spent a solemn hour with the society, in renewing our cove nant with God. Monday 4, I left Bristol, preached at the Devizes at eleven, and in the evening at Sarum. Tuesday 5, I preached at Whitchurch, where many, even of the rich, attended, and behaved with much se riousness. Wednesday 6, at eleven I preached in Winchester, where there are four thousand five hundred French prisoners. I was glad to find they have plenty of wholesome food, and are treated, in all respects, with great humanity. In the evening I preached at Portsmouth Common. Thursday 7, I took a view of the camp adjoining to the town, and wondered to find it as clean and neat as a gentleman's garden. But there was no chaplain. The English soldiers of this age have nothing to do with God! Friday 8, We took chaise as usual, at two, and about eleven came to Cobham. Having a little leisure, I thought I could not employ it better, than in taking a walk through the gardens. They are said to take up four hundred acres, and are admirably well laid out. They^ far exceed the celebrated gardens at Stow ; and that in several re spects. 1, In situation, lying on a much higher hill, and having a finer prospect from the house. 2, In having a natural river, clear as crystal, running beneath and through them. 3, In the buildings therein, which are fewer indeed, but far more elegant : yea, and far better kept, being nicely clean, which is sadly wanting at Stow: and, lastly, In the rock work : to which nothing of the kind at Stow is to be compared. This night I lodged in the new house at London. How many more nights have I to spend there ? Monday 11, I began my little tour into Northamptonshire. In the evening I preached at Stony-Stratford : the next day at Hanslope, and at Morton, a little mile from Buckingham. Wednesday 13, having so lately seen Stourhead and Cobham gardens, I was now desired to take a view of the much more celebrated gardens at Stow. The first thing I observed was the beautiful water which runs through the gardens to the front of the house. The tufts of trees, placed on each side of this, are wonderfully pleasant : and so are many of the walks and glades through the woods, which are disposed with a fine variety. The large pieces of water interspersed, give a fresh beauty to the whole. Yet there are several things which must give disgust to any person of common sense. 1, The buildings, called temples, are most miserable, many of them both within and without. Sir John Vanbrugh's is an ugly, clumsy lump, hardly fit for a gentleman's sta ble. 2, The temples of Venus and Bacchus, though large, have no thing elegant in the structure : and the paintings in the former, re presenting a lewd story, are neither well designed, nor executed : those in the latter are quite faded, and most of the inscriptions van ished away. 3, The statues are full as coarse as the paintings ; par- OCT. 1779.] KEY. JOHN WESLEY's JOURNAL. 49 ticularly those of Apollo and the Muses, whom a person, not other wise informed, might take to be nine cook-maids. 4, Most of the water in the ponds is dirty and thick as puddle. 5, It is childish af fectation to call things here by Greek or Latin names, as Styx, and the Elysian fields. 6, It was ominous for my Lord to entertain him self and his noble company in a grotto built on the bank of Styx, that is, on the brink of hell. 7, The river on which it stands is a black, filthy puddle, exactly resembling a common sewer. 8, One of the stateliest monuments is taking down, the Egyptian pyramid ; and no wonder, considering the new inscriptions, which are still legible : the one "Linquenda tellus, et domus, et placens Uxor : neque harum, quas colis, arborum Te praeter invisas cupressos, Ulla brevem dominum sequetur!" The other, " Lusisti satis, edisti satis, atque bibisti : Tempus abire tibi est : ne potum largius aequo Rideat et pulset lasciva decentius setas." Upon the whole, I cannot but prefer Cobham gardens to those at Stow: for, 1, The river at Cobham shames all the ponds at Stow: 2, There is nothing at Stow comparable to the walk near the wheel, which runs up the side of a steep hill, quite grotesque and wild. 3, Nothing in Stow gardens is to be compared to the large temple, the pavilion, the antique temple, the grotto, or the building at the head of the garden : nor to the neatness which runs through the whole. But there is nothing even at Cobham to be compared, 1, To the beautiful cross at the entrance of Stourhead gardens. 2, To the vast body of water 3, The rock- work grotto. 4, The temple of the sun, 5, The hermitage. Here too every thing is nicely clean as well as in full preservation : add to this, that all the gardens hang on the sides of a semicircular mountain ; and there is nothing, either at Cobham or Stow, which can balance the advantage of such a situation. On this and the two following evenings, I preached at Whittlebury, Towcester, and Northampton. On Saturday I returned to London. Monday 18, I- set out for Sussex, and, after visiting the societies there, returned to London on Saturday 23. I was in hopes, by bring ing her with me, to save the life of Miss A., of Ewhurst, far gone in a consumption : but she was too far gone ; so that though that journey helped her for a while, yet she quickly relapsed, and soon after died in peace. Sunday 24, I preached a charity sermon in Shadwell church. I spoke with all possible plainness : and, surely, some out of an im mense multitude will receive the truth, and bring forth fruit with patience. Monday 25, I set out for Norwich. Tuesday 26, I went on to Yarmouth; on Wednesday to Lowestoffe, on Friday to Loddon. Saturday 30, 1 came to Norwich again. 50 rev. john wesley's Journal. [nov. 1779. Monday, November 1, I crossed over to Lynn, and settled the little affairs there; on Wednesday 3, went on to Colchester, and on Friday to London. Saturday 5, I began examining the society, which usually employs me eleven or twelve days. Saturday 13, 1 had the pleasure of an hour's conversation with Mr. G., one of the members of the first congress in America. He un folded a strange tale indeed. How has poor K. G. been betrayed on every side ! But this is our comfort : there is one higher than they : and he will command all things to work together for good. The following week I examined the rest of our society, but did not find such an increase as I expected : nay, there was a considera ble decrease, plainly owing to a senseless jealousy that had crept in between our preachers, which had grieved the Holy Spirit of God, and greatly hindered his work. Monday 22, My brother and I set out for Bath, on a very extra ordinary occasion. Some time since, Mr. Smyth, a clergyman, whose labours God had greatly blessed in the north of Ireland, brought his wife over to Bath, who had been, for some time, in a de clining state of health. I desired him to preach every Sunday even ing in our chapel, while he remained there : but, as soon as I was gone, Mr. M'Nab, one of our preachers, vehemently opposed that, affirming it was the common cause of all the lay preachers ', that they were appointed by the Conference, not by me, and would not suffer the clergy to ride over their heads: Mr. Smyth in particular, of whom he said all manner of evil. Others warmly defended him. Hence the society was torn in pieces, and thrown into the utmost confusion. Tuesday 23, I read to the society a paper which I wrote nearly twenty years ago, on a like occasion. Herein I observed, that " the Rules of our Preachers were fixed by me, before any Conference existed," particularly the twelfth. "Above all, you are to preach when and where I appoint." By obstinately opposing which rule Mr. M'Nab has made all this uproar. In the morning, at a meeting of the preachers, I informed Mr. M'Nab, that as he did not agree to our fundamental rule, I could not receive him as one of our preach ers, till he was of another mind. Wednesday 24, I read the same paper to the society at Bristol, as I found the flame had spread thither also. A few at Bath separated from us on this account ; but the rest were thoroughly satisfied : so on Friday 26, I took coach again, and on Saturday reached London! In this journey I read Dr. Warner's History of Ireland, from its first settlement to the English conquest; and, after calm deliberation I make no scruple to pronounce it a mere senseless romance. I do not believe one leaf of it is true from the beginning to the end. I totally reject the authorities on which he builds: I will not take Flagherty's or Keating's word for a farthing. I doubt not, Ireland was, before the christian sera, full as barbarous as Scotland or Eng land. Indeed, it appears, from their own accounts, that the Irish, in general, were continually plundering and murdering each other, from the earliest ages to that period : and so they were ever since, by the dec. 1779.] rev. John wesley's journal. 51 account of Dr. Warner himself, till they were restrained by the Eng lish. How then were they converted by St. Patrick? (cousin-ger- man to St. George !) To what religion ? Not to Christianity. Neither in his age, nor the following, had they the least savour of Christiani ty, either in their lives or their tempers. Sunday 28, I preached a charity sermon at St. Peter's, Cornhill. Monday 29, I visited the societies in Kent, and returned on Satur day. Sunday, December 5, In applying those words, What could I have done for my vineyard which I have not done ? I found such an uncommon pouring out of the convincing Spirit, as we have not known for many years. In the evening, the same Spirit enabled me strongly to exhort a numerous congregation to Come boldly to the throne of grace, and to make all their requests known unto God with thanksgiving. Tuesday 7, I preached in Rotherithe chapel, a cold, uncomfortable place, to a handful of people, who appeared to be just as much af fected as the benches they sat upon. Thursday 9, in speaking on those words, Set thy house in order, for thou shalt die and not live, I took occasion to exhort all who had not done it already, to settle their temporal affairs without delay. Let not any man who reads these words put it off a day longer ! Monday 13, I retired to Lewisham and settled the society -book. Fifty-seven members of the society have died this year, and none of them as a fool dieth. An hundred and seventy have left the society. Such are the fruits of senseless prejudice. Saturday 25, We began the service at the new chapel, as usual, at four in the morning : afterwards I read prayers and preached, and administered the Lord's-Supper at West-street : in the afternoon I preached at the new chapel again ; then met the society, and after wards the married men and women ; but after this, I was no more tired than when I rose in the morning. Wednesday 29, Mr. Hatton, lately come from America, gave us an account of his strange deliverance. He was collector of the cus toms for the eastern ports of Maryland, and zealous for king George : therefore the rebels resolved to dispatch him, and a party was sent for that purpose, under one Simpson, who owed him five hundred pounds. But first he sent him the following note : "Sir, " We are resolved to have you, dead or alive : so we advise you to give yourself up, that you may give us no more trouble. " I am, Sir, " Your obedient servant." Mr. Hatton not complying with this civil advice, a party of rifle men was sent to take him. He was just going out, when a child told him they were at hand, and had only time to run and get into a hol low, which was under the house. The maid clapped to the trap-door, and covered it over with flax. They searched the house from top to bottom; opened all the closets; turned up the beds; and, finding 52 SEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [ JAN. 1 780, nothing, went away. He was scarcely come out, when another party beset the house, and came so quick, that he had but just time to get in again. And the maid, not having flax enough at hand, covered the door with foul linen. When these also had wearied themselves with searching and went away, he put on his boots and great coat, took a gun and a rug, (it being a sharp frost) and crept into a little marsh near the house. A third party came quickly, swearing he must be about the house, and they would have him if he were alive. Hear ing this, he stole away with full speed, and lay down near the sea shore between two hillocks, covering himself with sea-weeds. They came so near that he heard one of them swear, " If I find him, I will hang him on the next tree." Another answered, " I will not stay for that : I will shoot him the moment I see him." After some time, finding they were gone, he lifted up his head, and heard a shrill whistle from a man fifty or sixty yards off. He soon knew him to be a deserter from the rebel army. He asked Mr. H. what he designed to do ? who answered, " Go in my boat to the English ships, which are four or five and twenty miles off." But the rebels had found and burned the boat. So knowing their life was gone, if they stayed till the morning, they got into a small canoe, (though liable to overset with a puff of wind) and set off from shore. Having rowed two or three miles, they stopped at a little island, and made a fire, being almost perished with cold. But they were quickly alarmed by a boat rowing toward the shore. Mr. Hatton standing up, said, " We have a musket and a fusee. If you load one as fast as I discharge the other, I will give a good account of them all." He then stepped to the shore, and bade the rowers stop and tell him who they were : declaring he would fire among them, if any man struck another stroke. Upon their answering, he found they were friends, being six more deserters from the rebel army : so they gladly came on shore and brought provisions with them, to those who before had neither meat nor drink. After refreshing themselves, they all went into the boat, and cheerfully rowed to the English ships. Friday 31, We concluded the year at West-street, with a solemn watch-night. Mostjj of the congregation stayed till the beginning of the year, and cheerfully sang together, "Glory to God, and thanks, and praise, Who kindly lengthens out our days," &c. Sunday, January 2, 1780, We had the largest congregation at the renewal of our covenant with God, which ever met upon the occasion. And we were thoroughly convinced, that God was not departed from us: he never will, unless we first depart from him. Tuesday 18, Receiving more and more accounts of the increase of popery, I believed it to be my duty to write a letter concerning it, which was afterwards inserted in the public papers. Many were grievously offended, but I cannot help it; I must follow my own conscience. Saturday 22, 1 spent an hour or two very agreeably, in Sir Ashton Lever's Museum. It does not equal the British Museum in size, nor MARCH, 1780.] KEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 53 is it constructed on so large a plan, as it contains no manuscripts, no hooks, no antiquities, nor any remarkable works of art But I be lieve, for natural curiosities, it is not excelled by any museum in Europe. And all the beasts, birds, reptiles, and insects, are admira bly well ranged and preserved ; so that if you saw many of them else where, you would imagine they were alive ! The hippopotamos, in particular, looks as fierce as if he were just coming out of the river; and the old lion appears as formidable now, as when he was stalking in the tower. Sunday 28, In the evening I retired to Lewisham to prepare mat ter, (who would believe it ?) for a monthly magazine. Friday, February 4, Being the national fast, I preached first at the new chapel, and then at St. Peter's, Cornhill. What a difference in the congregation ! Yet out of these stones God can raise up children to Abraham. Thursday 17, I preached at Dorking, and could not but reflect, in this room I lodged the first time I saw poor Mr. Ireland ; em phatically poor ! poor beyond expression ; though he left fourscore thousand pounds behind him ! Thursday 24, I met the building committee, according to whose representation our income at last nearly answers our expences. If so it will clear itself, in a few years. Monday 28, Taking the post-coach, I reached Newbury time enough to preach to a crowded audience. Tuesday 29, and Wednes day, I preached at Bath, where brotherly love is now restored. Thursday, March 2, I went to Bristol, and enjoyed much peace among a quiet, loving people. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednes day, I examined the society, and had reason to rejoice over them. Monday 13, I set out for the north, and in the evening preached at Stroud, where is a considerable increase of the work of God. Tuesday 14, I preached in the church atPitchcomb, but it would by no means contain the congregation. In the evening I preached at Tewkesbury ; and on Wednesday 15, at Worcester, to a very serious congregation. Thursday 16, about noon, I began preaching at Bewd- ly, in an open space, at the head of the town. The wind was high and exceedingly sharp, but no one seemed to regard it: in the middle of the sermon came a man beating a drum ; but a gentleman of the town soon silenced him. Friday 17, about noon I preached atBenge- worth church, to the largest congregation I ever saw there ; and in Pebworth church about six, to a larger congregation than I had seen there before. I found uncommon liberty in applying those words, (perhaps a last warning to the great man of the parish, Mr. Martin,) Whatever thy hand findeth to do, do it ivith thy might. Saturday 18, I went on to Birmingham ; and Sunday 19, preached at eight in the morning, and at half past one in the afternoon ; in the evening at Wednesbury. Monday 20, I reached Congleton, and preached to a lively congregation on our Lord's words, Lazarus, come forth ! Tuesday 21, 1 preached in the new chapel at Maccles field. Thursday 23, at Stockport and Manchester. On Good-Friday, I preached at seven in Manchester: about one. 54 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [APRIL, 1780. in Oldham; and in Manchester at six. Saturday 25, I went on to Bolton, where the work of God is continually increasing. On Easter-day I set out for Warrington. Mr. Harmer read prayers both morning and afternoon. We had a large congregation in the morning, as many as the church could well contain in the afternoon, and more than it could contain in the evening. At last there is rea son to hope, that God will have a steady people even in this wil derness. The next evening, when a few of the society were met together, the power of God came mightily upon them ; some fell to the ground ; some cried aloud for mercy ; some rejoiced with joy unspeakable. Two or three found a clear sense of the love of God ; one gay young woman in particular, who was lately much prejudiced against this way, but is now filled with joy unspeakable. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I spent at Liverpool, being undetermined whether to proceed or not. At length I yielded to the advice of my friends, and deferred my journey to Ireland : so I preached at Northwich about noon ; and in the evening at Alpring- ham, in the midst of all the old Methodists." We had a very differ ent congregation at Nantwich in the evening : but as many as could get into the house, or near the door, behaved very seriously. Saturday, April 1, 1 returned to Chester, and found many alive to God, but scarcely one that retained his pure love. Sunday 2, I reached Warrington about ten : the chapel was well filled with seri ous hearers; and I believe God confirmed the word of his grace. Hastening back to Chester, I found a numerous congregation wait ing, and immediately began, This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Monday 3, I returned to Manchester ; and Tuesday 4, strongly applied, What could I have done for my vineyard, which I have not done ? At present there are many here that bring forth good grapes, but many swiftly increase in goods. And I fear very few sufficiently watch and pray that they may not set their hearts upon them. Wednesday 5, I preached at Bolton. Thursday 6, about noon, at Bury ; and at Rochdale in the evening. Friday 7, I went to Delf, a little village upon the mountains, where a remarkable work of God is just broken out. I was just set down, when the minister sent me word, I was welcome to preach in his church. On hearing this, many people walked thither immediately, nearly a mile from the town ; but in ten minutes he sent word his mind was changed. We knew not then what to do till the trustees of the Independent Meeting offered us the use of their house. It was quickly filled, and truly God bore witness to his word. In the evening I preached at Hud- dersfield. Saturday 8, About noon, I opened the new house at Mirfield. and in the evening preached at Daw-Green. Sunday 9, I went on to Birstal, and took my stand in the front of the house, though the north-east wind whistled round about. I preached again between APRIL, 1780.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 55 four and five, pointing them to the Great Bishop and Shepherd of their souls. Monday 10, 1 preached in the prison at Whitelee ; in the evening at Morely, and on Tuesday morning at Cross-hall. The family here are much grown in grace since I saw them last. Most of them- now enjoy the great salvation, and walk worthy of their vocation. And all around them see their good works, and glorify their Father' which is in heaven. ¦ In the evening I preached to a very genteel congregation at Wake field. Wednesday 12, after preaching at Rothwell, I inquired what was become of that lovely class of little girls, most of them believers, whom I met here a few years since ? I found, those of them that had pious parents remain to this day. But all of them whose parents did not fear God, are gone back into the world. ' In the evening I preached in the new house at Leeds. Thursday 13, I opened the new house at Hunslet On Friday I preached at Woodhouse. Sunday 16, our house at Leeds was full at eight: yet every one heard distinctly. In the afternoon I preached at the old- church ; but a considerable part of the people could not hear : indeed the church is remarkably ill constructed : had it been built with com mon sense, all that were in it, and even more, might have heard eve ry word. Monday 17, I left Leeds in one of the roughest mornings I have ever seen. We had rain, hail, snow, and wind in abundance. About nine I preached at Bramley ; between one and two at Pudsey. Af terwards I walked to Fulnack, the German settlement. Mr. Moore shewed us the house, chapel, hall, lodging-rooms, the apartments of the widows, the single men, and single women. He shewed us likewise the work-shops of various kinds, with the shops for grocery, drapery, mercery, hardware, &c. with which, as well as with bread from their bake-house, they furnish the adjacant country. I see not what but the mighty power of God can hinder them from acquiring millions : as they, 1, Buy all materials with ready money at the best hand. 2, Have above a hundred young men, above fifty young wo men, many widows, and above a hundred married persons, all of whom are employed from morning to night, without any intermis sion, in various kinds of manufactures, not for journeymen?s wages, but for no wages at all, save a little very plain food and raiment. As they have, 3., A quick sale for all their goods, and sell them all for ready money. But can they lay up treasure on earth, and at the Same time lay up treasure in heaven ? In the evening I preached at Bradforth, where I was well pleased to find many, both men and women, who had never suffered any de cay since they were perfected in love. Wednesday 19, I went to Otley, but Mr. Ritchie was dead before I came : but he had first wit nessed a good confession. One telling him, " You will be better soon." He replied, "I cannot be better; for I have God in my heart I am happy, happy, happy in his love." Mr. Wilson, the vicar, after a little hesitation, consented, that I should preach his fu neral sermon : this I did to-day. The text he had chosen was, To- vol. 4, — G 56 rev. john wesley's journal. [may, 1780. you that believe he is precious. Perhaps such a congregation had hardly been in Otley church before ! Surely the right hand of the Lord bringeth mighty things to pass ! Sunday 23, Mr. Richardson being unwilling that I should preach any more in Haworth church, Providence opened another : I preach ed in Bingley church, both morning and afternoon : this is consider ably larger than the other. It rained hard in the morning: this hindered many, so that those who did come, got in pretty well in the forenoon ; but in the afternoon very many were obliged to go away. After preaching at several other places on Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday 26, I preached in Heptonstall church, well filled with serious hearers. In the evening I preached near Todmorden, in the heart of the mountains. One would wonder where all the people came from. Thursday 27, I preached in Todmorden church, with great enlargement of heart In the afternoon we went into Blackburn : it seemed the whole town was moved. But the ques tion was, where to put the congregation. We could not stand abroad because of the sun : so, as many as could, squeezed into the preach ing-house. All the chief men of the town were there. It seems as if tfie last will be first. Sunday 30, We had a lovely congregation at Colne, but a much larger at one and at five. Many of them came ten or twelve miles; but I believe not in vain. God gave them a good reward for their labour. Monday, May 1, We reached Graffington about ten: the multi tude of people constrained me to preach abroad. It was fair all the time I was preaching, but afterwards rained much. At Pateley- bridge, the vicar offered me the use of his church : though it was more than twice as large as our preaching-house, it was not near large enough to contain the congregation. How vast is the increase of the work of God ! particularly in the most rugged and uncultiva ted places! How does he send the springs of grace also into the vallies that run among the hills ! Tuesday 2, We came to Ripon, and observed a remarkable turn of Providence, The great hinderance of the work of God in this place, has suddenly disappeared : and the poor people, being delivered from their fear, gladly flock together to hear his word. The new preach ing-house was quickly more than filled. Surely some of them will not be forgetful hearers ! In the afternoon we travelled through a delightful country ; the more so, when contrasted with the horrid mountains. The immense ruins of Garvaix Abbey shew what a stately pile it was once. Though we were at a lone house, a numerous congregation assembled in the evening ; on whom I enforced, This is life, eternal, to know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent. Wednesday 3, Judging it impracticable to pass the mountains in a carriage, I sent my chaise round, and took horse. At twelve I preached at Swaledale, to a loving people, increasing both in grace **a»d number. Thence we crossed oyer another range of dreary moun- may, 1780.] rev. john wesley's journal. 57 tains, and in the evening reached Barnard-castle. Not being yet inured to riding, I now felt something like weariness: but I forgot it in the lively congregation, and in the morning it was gone. Thursday 4, About eight I preached to a serious congregation at Cuthbertson, and about one at Newbiggin in Teesdale. We doubt ed, how we should get over the next mountain, the famous Pikelow, after so long and heavy rains : but I scarcely ever remember, our get ting over it so well. We found the people in Weardale, as usual, some of the liveliest in the kingdom, knowing nothing and desiring to know nothing, save Jesus Christ and him crucified. Friday 5, Notice having been given, without my knowledge, of my preaching at Ninthead, all the lead-miners that could, got togeth er, and I declared to them, All things are ready. After riding over another enormous mountain, I preached at Gamblesby (as I did about thirty years ago) to a large congregation of rich and poor. The chief man of the town was formerly a Local Preacher, but now keeps his carriage. Has he increased in holiness as well as in wealth ? If not, he has made a poor exchange. In the evening, a large upper room, designed for an assembly, was procured for me at Penrith. But several of the poor people were struck with a panic, for fear the room should fall. Finding there was no remedy, I went down into the court below, and preach ed in great peace, to a multitude of well-behaved people. The rain was suspended while I preached, but afterwards returned and con tinued most of the night. Saturday 6, I went on to Whitehaven, and in the evening, exhorted all who knew in whom they had be lieved, To walk worthy of God in all well pleasing ; being fruit ful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God. Sunday 8, I preached at eight, at two, and at five; but could not preach abroad, because of the rain. We were in hopes of sailing for the Isle of Man the next morning, as a little vessel was waiting for us ; but the wind turned full against us. By this means I had an op portunity given me of meeting the select society. I was pleased to find, that none of them have lost the pure love of God, since they re ceived it first. I was particularly pleased with a poor negro. She seemed to be fuller of love than any of the rest. And not only her voice had an unusual sweetness, but her words were chosen and ut tered with a peculiar propriety. I never heard either in England or America, such a negro speaker, (man or woman) before. Tuesday 9, Finding no hopes of sailing, after preaching morning and evening, I went to Cockermouth. Wednesday 10, at eight I preached in the town-hall ; but to the poor only, the rich could not rise so soon. In the evening I preached in the town-hall at Carlisle : and from the number and seriousness of the hearers, I conceived a little hope, that even here, some good will be done. Thursday 11, I reached Newcastle, and on Friday 12, went to Sunderland. Many of our friends prosper in the world, I wish their souls may prosper also. Sunday 14, I preached at Gateshead-Fell at two o'clock, and hoped to preach at the Garth-heads at five. But 58 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [MAY, 1780. the rain drove us into the house : but all was well ; for many found God was there. Monday 15, I set out for Scotland ; and Tuesday 16, came to Ber wick-upon-Tweed. Such a congregation I have not seen there for many years. Perhaps the seed which has so long seemed to be sown in vain, may at length produee a good harvest. Wednesday 17, I went on to Dunbar : I have seldom seen such a congregation here before : indeed some of them seemed at first dis posed to mirth, but they were soon serious as death. And truly the power of the Lord was present to heal those that were willing to come to the throne of grace. Thursday 18, I read with great ex pectation, Dr. Watts's Essay on Liberty ; but I was much disappoint ed : it is abstruse and metaphysical. Surely he wrote it, either when he was very young or very old. In the evening I endeavoured to preach to the hearts of a large congregation at Edinburgh. We have cast much bread upon, the wa ters here. Shall we not find it again, at least, after many days. Friday 19, 1 preached at Joppa, a settlement of colliers, three miles from Edinburgh : some months ago, as some of them were cursing and swearing, one of our local preachers going by, reproved them. One of them followed after him, and begged he would give them a sermon : he did so several times. Afterwards the travelling preach ers went, and a few quickly agreed to meet together. Some of these now know in whom they have believed, and walk worthy of their profession. Saturday 20, I took one more walk through Holyrood-house, the mansion of ancient kings: but how melancholy an appearance does it make now ! The stately rooms are dirty as stables : the colours of the tapestry are quite faded ; several of the pictures are cut and de faced. The roof of the royal chapel is fallen in ; and the bones of James the fifth, and the once beautiful Lord Darnley, are scattered about like those of sheep or oxen. Such is human greatness ! Is not a living dog better than a dead lion ! Sunday 21, The rain hindered me from preaching at noon upon the castle-hill. In the evening the house was well filled, and I was enabled to speak strong words : but I am not a preacher for the peo ple of Edinburgh : Hugh Saunderson and Michael Fenwick are more to their taste Tuesday 23, A gentleman took me to see Roslin-castle, eight miles from Edinburgh. It is now all in ruins, only a small dwelling-house is built on one part of it The situation of it is exceedingly fine, on the side of a steep mountain, hanging over a river, from which an other mountain rises, equally steep and clothed with wood. At a lit tle distance is the chapel, which is in perfect preservation, both with in and without. I should never have thought that it had belonged to any one less than a sovereign prince ! The inside being far more elegantly wrought, with variety of Scripture-histories, in stone work, than I believe can be found again in Scotland, perhaps not in all England. JUNE, 1780.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 59 Hence we went to Dunbar. Wednesday 24, in the afternoon I went through the lovely garden of a gentleman in the town, who has laid out walks hanging over the sea, and winding among the rocks; one of them leads to the castle, wherein that poor injured woman, Mary Queen of Scots, was confined. But time has well nigh de voured it ; only a few ruinous walls are now standing. Thursday 25, We went on to Berwick. Friday 26, in returning to Alnwick, we spent an hour at H., an ancient monastery. Part of it the Duke of Northumberland has repaired, furnished it in a plain manner, and surrounded it with a little garden. An old inscription bears date 1404, when part of it was built by the fourth Earl of Northumberland. How many generations have had their day since that time ! and then passed away like a dream ! We had a happy season at Alnwick with a large and deeply attentive congregation. Saturday 27, At noon I preached in the town-hall at Morpeth, and God applied his word to many hearts. In the afternoon I preached to the loving colliers at Placey, and then went on to Newcastle. Sunday 28, Between eight and nine in the morning I preached at Gateshead-Fell, on fellowship with God, a subject which not a few of them understand by heart-felt experience. The congregation at Sheephill, about noon, was far too large for any house to contain. Such was the power of God, that I almost wondered any could help believing. At five I preached at the Garth-heads to a still more nu merous congregation : but there were few among them who remem bered my first preaching near that place, in the Keelman's Hospital. For what reason the wise managers of that place forbade my preach ing there any more, I am yet still to learn. Wednesday 31, Taking my leave of this affectionate people, I went to Mr. Parker's at Shincliff, near Durham. The congregation being far too large to get into the house, I stood near his door. It seemed as if the whole village were ready to receive the truth in the love thereof. Perhaps their earnestness may provoke the people of Durham to jealousy. In the afternoon we took a view of the castle at Durham, the resi dence of the bishop. The situation is wonderfully fine, surrounded by the river, and commanding all the country. And many of the apartments are large and stately ; but the furniture is mean beyond imagination ! I know not where I have seen such in a gentleman's house, or a man of five hundred a yrear, except that of the Lord- Lieutenant in Dublin. In the largest chambers the tapestry is quite faded, beside that it is coarse and ill-judged. Take but one instance. In Jacob's vision you see, on the one side, a little paltry ladder, and an angel climbing it, in the attitude of a chimney-sweeper: on the other side, Jacob staring at him, from under a large silver laced hat ! Thursday, June 1 , About ten I preached at Aycliff, a large village, twelve miles from Durham : all the inhabitants whereof seem now as full of good-will, as they were once of prejudice. I preached at Darlington in the evening. It is good to be here : the liveliness of the people animates all that come near them. On Friday evening we had a love-feast, at which many were greatly 60 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JUNE, 1780, comforted, by hearing such artless, simple accounts of the mighty works of God. Saturday 3, At noon I preached to a large congregation at North allerton. The sun shone full in my face when I began, but it was soon over-cast. And I believe, this day, if never before, God gave a general call to this careless people. In the evening I preached at Thirsk. When I was here last, a few young women behaved foolish ly. But all were deeply serious now, and seemed to feel, that God was there. Sunday 4, The service began about ten, at Stavely, near Borough- bridge. Mr, Hartley, the rector, read prayers. But the church would scarcely contain half the congregation, so that I was obliged to stand upon a tomb-stone, both morning and afternoon. In the even ing I preached at Boroughbridge to a numerous congregation, and all were attentive, except a few soldiers, who seemed to understand no thing of the matter. Monday 5, About noon, I preached at Tockwith, and then went on to York. I was surprised to find a general faintness here ; one fruit of which was, that the morning preaching was given up. Tues day 6, was the quarterly meeting, the most numerous I ever saw. At two was the love-feast; at which several instances of the mighty power of God were repeated ; by which it appears, that his work is still increasing in several parts of the circuit. An arch news-writer published a paragraph to-day, probably de signed for wit, concerning "the large pension which the famous Wesley received for defending the King." This so increased the congregation in the evening, that scores were obliged to go away. And God applied that word to many hearts, I will not destroy the city for ten's sake ! Wednesday 7, I preached at Pocklington and Swinfleet Thurs day 8, 1 preached on the green at Thorne to a listening multitude : only two or three were much diverted at the thought of seeing the dead, small and great, standing before God ! Friday 9, About noon I preached at Crowle ; and in the evening at Ep worth, on I will not let thee go, except thou bless me. Satur day 10, in the evening I preached at Ouston ; and passing the Trent early in the morning, on Sunday 11, preached at Kirton, about eight, to a very large, and very serious congregation. Only before me stood one, something like a gentleman, with his hat on, even at prayer. I could scarcely help telling him a story. In Jamaica, a negro passing by the Governor, pulled off his hat : so did the Governor : at which, one expressing his surprise, he said, " Sir, I should be ashamed if a negro had more good manners than the Governor of Jamaica." About two I preached at Gainsborough, and again at five, to a very numerous congregation. We had then a love-feast, and one of the most lively which I have known for many years. Many spoke, and with great fervor, as well as simplicity, so that most who heard blessed God for the consolation. Monday 12, About eleven I preached at Newton-upon-Trent, to a large and very genteel congregation. Thence we went to Newark : JUNE, 1780.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 61 but our friends were divided as to the place where I should preach. At length they found a convenient place, covered on three sides, and on the fourth open to the street. It contained two or three thousand people well, who appeared to hear, as for life : only one big man, ex ceedingly drunk, was very noisy and turbulent, till his wife (fortis- sima Tyndaridarum !) seized him by the collar, gave him two or three hearty boxes on the ear, and dragged him away like a calf. But at length he got out of her hands, crept in among the people, and stood as quiet as a lamb. Tuesday 13, I accepted of an invitation from a gentleman at Lin coln, in which I had not set my foot for upwards of fifty years. At six in the evening I preached in the Castle-yard, to a large and atten tive congregation. They were all as quiet as if I had been at Bris tol. Will God have a people here also ? Wednesday 14, I preached again at ten in the morning. In the middle of the sermon a violent storm began; on which Mr. Wood, the keeper, opened the door of the court-house, which contained the whole of the congregation. I have great hope some of these will have their fruit unto holiness, and in the end, everlasting life. Heavy rain drove us into the house at Horncastle in the evening. Thursday 15, I preached at Raithby: two of Mr. Brackenbury's brothers spent the evening with us. Friday 16, we went on to Bos ton, the largest town in the county, except Lincoln. From the top of the steeple, which I suppose is by far the highest tower in the kingdom, we had a view, not only of all the town, but of all the ad jacent country. Formerly this town was in the fens ; but the fens are vanished away : great part of them is turned into pasture, and part into arable land. At six the house contained the congregation, all of whom behaved in the most decent manner. How different from those wild beasts, with whom Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Mather had to do! Saturday 17, The house was pretty well filled in the morning, and many were much affected. A gentleman who was there, invited me to dinner, and offered me the use of his paddock : but the wind was so exceedingly high that I could not preach abroad, as I did when I was here before, just six-and-twenty years ago. And Mr. Thomp son, a friendly Anabaptist, offering me the use of his large meeting house, I willingly accepted the offer. I preached to most of the chief persons in the town, on 1 Cor. xiii. 1, 3, And many of them seemed utterly amazed. Open their eyes, O Lord, that they sleep not in death .' Sunday 18, 1 gave them a parting discourse at seven; and after adding a few members to the little society, and exhorting them to cleave close to each other, I left them with a comfortable hope, that they would not be scattered any more. About noon I preached in the market-place at Wainfleet, once a large sea-port town, till the harbour was blocked up by sand. The congregation behaved exceedingly well. We now passed into Marsh land, a fruitful and pleasant part of the county : such is Langhanv Row in particular, the abode of honest George Robinson^ and his 62 KEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JUNE, 1780. fourteen children. Although it was a lone house, yet such a multi tude of people flocked together, that I was obliged to preach abroad. It blew a storm, and we had several showers of rain ; but no one went away. I do not wonder that this society is the largest, as well as the liveliest, in these parts of Lincolnshire. Monday 19, I preached at Louth, where the people used to be rough enough, but now were serious and calmly attentive. Such a change, in a whole town, I have seldom known, in the compass of one year. Tuesday 20, After preaching at Tealby, I went on to Grimsby, where I am still more at home than in any place in the east of Lin colnshire ; though scarcely any of our first members remain ; they are all safely lodged in Abraham's bosom But here is still a loving people, though a little disturbed by the Calvinists, who seize on every halting soul as their own lawful prey. Wednesday 21,1 preached at Scotter, to a lovely, simple-hearted people, and at Epworth in the evening. Thursday 22, 1 preached once more at Crowle, to a numerous and deeply serious congregation. Every one thought, " Can any good come out of Crowle ?" But God's thoughts were not as our thoughts! There is now such a work of God in this, as is in few of the places round about it. Saturday 24, 1 preached about noon at Belton : there was the dawn of a blessed work here : but " My Lady's Preachers," so called, breaking in, set every one's sword against his brother. Some of them revive a little : but I doubt whether they will ever recover their first love. Sunday 25, Sir William Anderson, the rector, having sent an ex press order to his curate, he did not dare to gainsay : so at ten I be gan reading prayers to such a congregation as, I apprehend, hardly ever assembled in this church before. I preached on Luke viii. 18, part of the second lesson. Not a breath was heard ; all was still, " as summer's noon-tide air :" and, I believe, our Lord then sowed seed in many hearts, which will bring forth fruit to perfection. After dinner I preached at Westwood-side. The high wind was a little troublesome ; but the people regarded it not. We concluded the day with one of the most solemn love-feasts I have known for many years. Monday 26, Finningley church was well filled in the evening, and. many seemed much affected. Tuesday 27, I preached at Doncaster about noon, and to a larger congregation at Rotherham, in the even ing. Wednesday 28, I went to Sheffield : but the house was not ready ; so I preached in the square. I can hardly think I am entered this day into the seventy-eighth year of my age. By the blessing of God I am just the same as when- I entered the twenty-eighth. This hath God wrought, chiefly by my constant exercise, my rising early, and preaching morning and even ing. Thursday 29, 1 was desired to preach at Worksop : but, when I came, they had not fixed on any place. At length they chose a la- JULY, 17S0.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 63 mentable one, full of dirt and dust, but without the least shelter from the scorching sun : this few could bear ; so we had only a small com pany of as stupid people as ever I saw. In the evening I preached in the old house in Sheffield ; but the heat was scarcely supportable. I took my leave of it at five in the morning, and in the evening preached in the new house, throughly filled with rich and poor, to whom I declared, We preach Christ crucified. And he bore wit ness to his word in a very uncommon manner. Saturday, July 1, I preached once more at Rotherham. Sunday 2, at eight, I preached at Sheffield. There was afterwards such a number of communicants, as was never seen at the old church hefore. I preached again at five ; but very many were constrained to go away. We concluded our work, by visiting some that were weak in body, but strong in faith, desiring nothing but to do and suffer the will of God. Monday 3, and Tuesday 4, I preached at Derby. Wednesday 5, at a church eight miles from it. In the afternoonj as I was going through Stapleford, in my way to Nottingham, I was stopped by some who begged me to look into their new preaching-house. Many following me, the house was soon filled, and we spent half an hour together, to our mutual comfort. In the evening I preached at Not tingham. Wednesday 5, 1 preached in Loughborough about eleven, and in the evening at Leicester. I know not how it is, that I con stantly find such liberty of spirit in this place ! Thursday 6, the room, at five, according to custom, was filled from end to end. I have not spent a whole day in Leicester for these fifty-two years. Surely I shall before I die. This night we spent in Northampton, then went on to London. Sunday 9, We had a full congregation at the new chapel, and found God had not forgotten to be gracious. In the following days, I read over, with a few of our preachers, the large Minutes of the Confer ence, and considered all the articles, one by one, to see whether any should be omitted or altered. Sunday 16, Was a day of much refreshment and strong consola tion to many, who are persuaded that God will revive his work, and build up the waste places. Monday 17, my brother and I set outfox Bath. I preached at Reading in the evening. On Tuesday evening I preached at Ramsbury-park. On Wednesday we reached Bath. A year ago there was such an awakening here, as never had been from the beginning; and, in consequence of it, a swift and large in crease of the society. Just then Mr. M'Nab, quarrelling with Mr. Smyth, threw wildfire among the people, and occasioned anger, jealousies, judging each other, back-biting, and tale-bearing without end : and, in spite of all the pains which have been taken, the wound is not healed to this day. Both my brother and I now talked to as many as we could, and endeavoured to calm and soften their spirits ; and on Friday and Saturday I spoke severally to all the members of the society that could attend. On Friday evening, both in the preaching, and at the meeting of the society, the power of God was vol. 4;— -H £4 KEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [AUG. 1780. again present to heal : as also on Saturday, both morning and even ing : and a few are added to the society. Sunday 23,1 preached, after reading prayers, at ten, at half an hour past two, and in the evening. Very many heard, I hope some felt what was spoken. We have sown : 0 may God give the increase ! Monday 24, I went on to Bristol. While I was at Bath, I nar rowly observed and considered the celebrated Cartoons ; the three first in particular. What a poor designer was one of the finest pain ters in the world! 1, Here are two men in a boat; each of them more than half as long as the boat itself ! 2, Our Lord saying to Pe ter, Feed my sheep, points to three or four sheep standing by him. 3, While Peter and John heal the lame man, two naked boys stand by them ! For what ? Oh ! pity that so fine a painter should be utter ly without common sense ! In the evening I saw one of the greast curiosities in the vegetable creation, the nightly Cereus. About four in the afternoon, the dry stem began so swell : about six, it gradually opened, and, about eight, it was in its full glory. I think, the inner part of this flower, which was snow white, was about five inches diameter : the yellow rays which surrounded it, I judged, were in diameter nine or ten inches. About twelve, it began to droop, being covered with a cold sweat : at four, it died away. The people at Bath were still upon my mind ; so, on Thursday 27, I went over again ; and God was with us of a truth, whenever we assembled together. Surely God is healing the breaches of this poor, shattered people. Sunday 30, Forty or fifty of our preachers being come, we had a solemn opportunity in the morning. We had the most numerous con gregation in the afternoon which has been seen here for many years. And will not the Lord be glorified in our reformation, rather than our destruction ? Tuesday, August 1, Our Conference began. We have been always hitherto straitened for time. It was now resolved, For the future we will allow nine or ten days for each Conference, that every thing re lating to the carrying on the work of God may be maturely con sidered. Friday 4, 1 preached on a convenient piece of ground, at one end of Radcliffe-parade. Great part of the immense congregation had never heard this kind of preaching before : yet they were deeply at tentive, while I opened and applied those awful words, / saw the dead, small and great, stand before God. Sunday 6, We had the largest number of communicants that had ever met at the new room, and the largest congregation at five that had ever met near King's-square. Wednesday 9, we concluded the Conference in much peace and love. Friday 1 1, the sultry heat con tinuing, I would not coop myself up in the chapel, but preached again near Radcliff-parade, with much comfort and peace. Monday 14, For fear of the violent heat, we set out for Cornwall very early in the morning; but we feared where no fear was; for" AUG. 1780.] rev. john wesley's journal. 65 that very day the heat was at an end, and a mild rain began, which, at intervals, followed us almost to the Land's-end. After preaehing at South-Brent, Taunton, and Collumpton, on Fri day 16, we came to Exeter. It is still a day of small things here, for want of a convenient preaching-house. Thursday 17, I went on to Plymouth. Here I expected little comfort. A large preaching- house was built; but who was to pay for it? I preached in it at six, at five in the morning, and on Friday evening; and from the number and the spirit of the hearers, could not but hope that good will be done here also. Saturday 19, I snatched the opportunity of a fair evening to preach in the square at Plymouth-Dock. Sunday 20, at seven in the morn ing, and at five in the evening, I preached at the Dock: in the after noon in Plymouth house. It was crowded sufficiently. After preaching, 1 made a collection for the house, which amounted to above five and twenty pounds. When I had done, Mr. Jane said, "This is not all. We must have a weekly collection both here and at the Dock. Let as many as can subscribe six-pence a week for one year. I will subscribe five shillings a week : and let this be reserv ed for the payment of the debt." It was done ; and, by this simple method, the most pressing debts were soon paid. Monday 21, 1 preached to a large and quiet congregation in the main street at St. Austle. Tuesday 22, I preached at Mevagizzy, in the evening at Helston. Wednesday 23, I went on to Penzance. It is now a pleasure to be here: the little flock being united together in love. I preached at a little distance from the preaching-house. A company of soldiers were in town, whom, toward the close of the sermon, the good officer ordered to march through the congregation : but, as they readily opened and closed again, it made very little disturbance. Thursday 24, I preached near the preaching-house at St. Just God applied his word with power; more especially at the meeting of the society, when all our hearts were as melting wax. Friday 25, I preached in the market-place at St. Ives, to most of the inhabitants of the town. Here is no opposer now : rich and poor see, and very many feel the truth. I now looked over a volume of Mr. K.'s Essays. He is a lively writer, of middling understanding: but I cannot admire his style at all; it is prim, affected, and highly frenchified. I object to the beginning so many sentences with participles: this does well in French, but not in English. I cannot admire his judgment in many particulars. To instance in one or two. He depresses Cowley beyond all reason; Who was far from being a mean poet. Full as unreasonably does he depress modern eloquence. I believe I have heard speakers at Ox ford, to say nothing of Westminster, who were not inferior to either Demosthenes or Cicero. Saturday 26, We had our quarterly meeting at Redruth, where all was love and harmony. Sunday 27, it was supposed, twenty thou sand people were assembled at the amphitheatre in Gwenap: and yet all, J was informed, could hear distinctly, in the fair, calm evening. 66 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [SEPT. 1780. Monday 28, 1 preached at Wadebridge, and Port-Isaac. Tuesday 29, at Camelford and Launceston. Hence we hastened toward Bris tol, by way of Wells, where, the weather being intensely hot so that WC could not Well bear the room, I preached on the shady side of the market-place, on By grace ye are saved through faith. As I was concluding, £ serjeant of the militia brought a drum: but he was a little too late. I pronounced the blessing, and quietly walked away. I knoft' not that ever I felt it hotter in Georgia than it was here this afternoon. Sunday, September 3, I preached three times at Bath, and, I be lieve, not without a blessing. Wednesday 6, I preached at Paulton. The flame kindled last year, still continues to burn here : and, what is strange, though so many have set their hand to the plough, there are none that look back. In all the number, I do not find so much as one backslider. Thursday 7, I spent an hour with the children, the most difficult part of our work. About noon I preached to a large and serious con gregation at Chew-Magna ; in the evening to a still more serious com pany at Stoke, where Mr. Griffin is calmly waiting for the call that summonses him to Abraham's bosom. Monday 11, As I drew near Bath, I wondered what had drawn Such a multitude of people together, till I learned that one of the members for the city had given an ox to be roasted whole : but their sport was sadly interrupted by heavy rain, whieh sent them home faster than they came ; many of whom dropped in at our chapel, where, 1 suppose, they had never been before. Tuesday 12, At the invitation of that excellent woman, Mrs. Tur ner, I preached about noon in her chapel in Trowbridge. As most of the hearers were dissenters, I did not expect to do much good : however, I have done my duty : God will look to the event. Thurs day 14, I read prayers and preached in Clutton church ; but it was with great difficulty, because of my hoarseness, which so increased, that in four and twenty hours I could scarcely speak at all. At night I used my neVer-failing remedy, bruised garlick applied to the soles of my feet. This cured my hoarseness in six hours : in one hour it cured my lumbago, the pain in the small of my back which I had had ever since I came from Cornwall. Wednesday 20, 1 preached in the market-place at Pill, to the most stupid congregation I have lately seen. Thursday 21,1 married Mr. Horton and Miss Durbin ; may they be patterns to all around them ! Sunday 24, 1 preached in the Temple church, the most beautiful and the most ancient in Bristol. Sunday, October 1, I preached as usual, morning and evening, at the room. About two I preached a funeral sermon at Kingswood, for that blessed saint, Bathsheba Hall; a pattern for many years, of zealously doing and patiently suffering the will of God. In 'the evening about seven hundred of us joined in solemnly renewing our covenant With God. Monday 2, After preaching at the Devizes, I went on to Sarum. Tuesday 3, 1 walked over to Wilton, and preached to a very serious NOV. 1780.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 67 congregation in the new preaching-house. I found at Sarum the fruit of Captain Webb's preaching : some were awakened, and one perfected in love: yet I was a little surprised at the remark of some of our eldest brethren That they had never heard perfection preach ed before. Wednesday 4, The preaching-house at Whitchurch, though much enlarged, could not contain the congregation in the evening. Some genteel people were inclined to smile at first, but their mirth was quickly over. The awe of God fell upon the whole congregation, and many rejoiced unto him with reverence. Saturday 7, 1 return ed from Portsmouth to London. Monday 16, I went to Tunbridge- Wells, and preached to a seri ous congregation on Rev. xx. 12. Tuesday 17, 1 came back to Sev enoaks, and in the afternoon walked over to the Duke of Dorset's seat. The park is the pleasantest I ever saw : the trees are so ele gantly disposed. The house, which is, at least, two hundred years old, is immensely large : it consists of two squares, considerably big ger than the two quadrangles in Lincoln College. I believe, we were shewn above thirty rooms, besides the hall, the chapels, and three galleries. The pictures are innumerable ; I think, four times as many as in the Castle at Blenheim. Into one of the galleries, opens the king's bed-chamber, ornamented above all the rest. The bed- curtains are cloth of gold, and so richly wrought, that it requires some strength to draw them. The tables, the chairs, the frames of the looking-glasses, are all plated over with silver. The tapestry, re presenting the whole history of Nebuchadnezzar, is as fresh as if newly woven : but the bed-curtains are exceedingly dirty, and look more like copper than gold. The silver on the tables, chairs, and glasses, look as dull as lead. And to complete all, King Nebuchad nezzar among the beasts, together with his eagle's claws, has a large crown upon his head, and is clothed in scarlet and gold ! Monday 23, I visited, for a few days, the societies in Northamp tonshire. Monday 30, I went to High Wycombe, where the new preaching-house was well filled in the evening. Tuesday 31, we had such a congregation at noon in Oxford as I never saw there be fore : and what I regarded more than their number was their seri ousness : even the young gentlemen behaved well ; nor could 1 ob serve one smiling countenance, although I closely applied these words, I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. Sunday, Nov. 5, 1 preached at the new chapel on Luke ix. 55, Ye know not ivhat manner of spirit ye are of: and shewed that, sup posing the papists to be heretics, schismatics, wicked men, enemies to us, and to our church and nation, yet we ought not to persecute, to kill, hurt, or grieve them, but barely to prevent their doing hurt. In the ensuing week I finished visiting the classes, and had the satis faction to find, that the society is considerably increased, both in number and grace, since the Conference. Monday 20, 1 went on to Chatham, and finding the society groan ing under a large debt, advised them to open a weekly subscription. The same advise I gave to the society at Sheerness. This advice 68 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL [DEC 1780 they all cheerfully followed, and with good effect. On Friday 24, we agreed to follow the same example at London ; and in one year we paid off 1. 1400. Monday 27, I went to Bedford, and preached in the evening. Tuesday 28, I preached at St. Neot's. Wednesday 29, at ten I preached in Godmanchester, and about six in the new house at Hun tingdon. I have seldom seen a new congregation behave with such seriousness. Thursday 30, I came to Luton, and found that child of sorrow and pain, Mrs. Cole, was gone to rest. For many years she had not known an hour's ease; but she died in full, joyous peace. And how little does she regret all that is past, now the days of her mourning are ended ! Monday, December 4, I visited the eastern societies in Kent, and on Friday returned to London. Sunday 10, I began reading and explaining to the society, the large minutes of the Conference. I desire to do all things openly and above board. I would have all the world, and especially all of our society, see not only all the steps we take, but the reasons why we take them. Saturday 16, Having a second message from Lord George Gor don, earnestly desiring to see me, I wrote a line to Lord Stormont, who, on Monday the 18lh, sent me a warrant to see him. On Tues day 19, 1 spent an hour with him, at his apartment in the tower. Our conversation turned upon popery and religion. He seemed to be well acquainted with the Bible; and had abundance of other books, enough to furnish a study. I was agreeably surprised to find he did not complain of any person or thing; and cannot but hope, his con finement will take a right turn and prove a lasting blessing to him. Friday 22, At the desire of some of my friends, I accompanied them to the British Museum. What an immense field is here for curiosity to range in ! One large room is filled from top to bottom with things brought from Otaheite: two or three more, with things dug out of the ruins of Herculaneum ! Seven huge apartments are filled with curious books; five with manuscripts, two with fossils of all sorts, and the rest with various animals! But what account will a man give to the Judge of quick and dead for a life spent in collect ing all these? Sunday 25, Desiring to make the most of this solemn day, I preached early in the morning at the new chapel : at ten and four I preached at West-street, and in the evening met the society at each end of the town. Friday 29, I saw the indictment of the grand jury against Lord George Gordon. I stood aghast ! What a shocking insult upon truth and common sense ! But it is the usual form: the more is the shame. Why will not the Parliament remove this scandal from our nation ? Saturday 30, Waking between one and two in the morning, I ob served a bright light shone upon the chapel. I easily concluded there was a fire near, probably in the adjoining timber-yard: if so, I knew it would soon lay us in ashes. I first called all the family to prayer: then going out, we found tbe fire about a hundred yards off, SEB. 1781.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 69 and had broken out while the wind was south : but a sailor cried out, "Avast! Avast ! the wind is turned in a moment!" So it did, to the west, while we were at prayer, and so drove the flame from us. We then thankfully returned, and I rested well the residue of the night. Sunday 21, We renewed our covenant with God: we had the largest company that I ever remember, perhaps two hundred more than we had last year: and we had the greatest blessing. Several received either a sense of the pardoning love of God, or power to love him with all their hearts. Monday, January 1, 1781, We began as usual, the service at four, praising him who, maugre all our enemies, had brought us safe to the beginning of another year. Sunday 7, Much of the power of God rested on the congregation, while I was declaring, how The Son of God was manifested, to destroy the works of the devil. Sunday 14, I preached at St. John's, Wapping. Although the church was extremely crowded, yet there was not the least noise or disorder, while I besought them all, by the mercies of God, to present themselves a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God. Thursday 18, Hearing Mr. Holmes was extremely weak, I went down to Burling, and found him very near worn out, just tottering over the grave : however, he would creep with me to the church, which was filled, though the night was exceedingly dark. I preach ed on, Repent and believe the gospel. The congregation appeared to be quite stunned. In the morning I returned to London. Tuesday 23, I went to Dorking, and buried the remains of Mrs. Attersal, a lovely woman, snatched away in the bloom of youth. I trust it will be a blessing to many, and to her husband in particular. Thursday 25, I spent an agreeable hour, at a concert of my nephews : but I was a little out of my element among Lords and Ladies. I love plain music and plain company best. Monday, February 12, I went to Norwich. The house was extremely crowded in the evening, and the whole congregation ap peared to be wounded : consequently many attended in the morning. Tuesday 13, I was desired to preach that evening on, Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling: for it is God that worketh in you, both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Even the Calvinists were satisfied for the present, and readily acknowledg ed that we did not ascribe our salvation to our own works, but to the grace of God. Wednesday 14, To awaken, if possible, the careless ones at Lod- don, at two in the afternoon, I opened and enforced those awful words, Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. In the evening I applied those gracious words, All things are ready: come unto the marriage. After spending Thursday and Friday with the affectionate people at Lowestoffe, on Saturday I returned to Norwich. Here I found about fifty missing out of the two hundred and sixteen whom I left in the society a year ago. Such fickleness I have not found any where else in the kingdom ; no, nOt even in Ireland. 70 kev. john wesley's journal. [mabch, 1781. Sunday 18, The chapel was full enough, both in the afternoon and the evening : I declared to them the whole counsel of God, and on Monday returned to London. Wednesday 21, Being the National Fast, I preached at the new chapel in the morning, and at West-street in the afternoon. At this, as well as the two last public fasts, all places of public worship w6re crowded : all shops were shut up : all was quiet in the streets, and seriousness seemed to spread through the whole city. And one may hope even this outward acknowledgment of God is in a measure ac ceptable to him. Sunday 25, My brother, Mr. Richardson, and Mr. Buckingham being ill, I went through the service at Spitalfields alone. The con gregation was much larger than usual ; but my strength was as my day, both here, the new chapel, and afterwards at St. Antholin^s church ; the service lasted till nearly nine ; but I was no more tired than at nine in the morning. Friday, March 2, We had our general quarterly meeting, and found the money subscribed this year, for the payment of the public debt, was between fourteen and fifteen hundred pounds. Sunday 4, At eight in the evening I took coach for Bristol, with Mr. Rankin and two other friends. We drove with two horses as far as Reading. Two more were then added, with a postillion, who knowing little of his business, instead of going forward, turned quite round on a sloping ground, so that we expected the coach to overturn every moment : so it must have done, but that the coachman instant ly leaped off, and with some other men held it up, till we got out at the opposite door. The coach was then soon set right, and we went on without let or hindrance. After spending two or three days at Bath, on Thursday 8, I went forward to Bristol. On Monday the 12th, and the following days, I visited the society, but was surprised to find no greater increase con sidering what preachers they had had. Sunday 18, I preached morning and evening at the room : in the afternoon at Temple-church. The congregation here is remarkably well behaved ; indeed so are the parishioners in general : and no wonder, since they have had such a succession of rectors, as few pa rishes in England have had. The present incumbent truly fears God : so did his predecessor Mr. Catcott, who was indeed as eminent for piety as most clergymen in England. He succeeded his father, a man of the same spirit, who, I suppose, succeeded Mr. Arthur Bed ford, a person greatly esteemed fifty or sixty years ago, for piety as well as learning. Monday 19, For several years the severe weather has begun the very day I set out from Bristol : but the mild weather now continu ed seven or eight days longer. This evening I preached at Stroud. Tuesday 20, at Stroud, Gloucester, Tewkesbury, and Worcester. Wednesday 21, at noon, I preached in Bewdly, and at Worcester in the evening. Thursday 22, I preached in Bengeworth-church, and had some conversation with that amiable man, Mr. B. I preached in A1PRIL, 1781.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 71 the evening at Pebworth-church, on those words in the Lesson, God liness with contentment is great gain. Saturday 24, I was invited to preach at Quinton, five miles from Birmingham. I preached there at noon in the open air to a serious and attentive congregation. Some of them appeared to be very deeply affected. Who knows but it may continue ? In the evening I had another comfortable opportunity with our friends at Birmingham. Sunday 25, 1 preached at Birmingham, Dudley, and Wednesbury. Monday 26, I preached at noon in Mr. Barker's large parlour, at Congreve, near Penkridge. Many stood in the next room, and many in the garden, near the windows : and I believe all could hear. I brought strange things to the ears of those that had been used to softer doctrines ; and I believe not in vain. They seemed to receive the truth in the love thereof. In the evening I preached at Newcastle-uhder-Lyme. Mr. Scot, and two or three of his preachers were present : they have lately begun to preach both here and at Burslem. If they would go and break up fresh ground we should rejoice: but we cannot commend them for breaking in upon our labours after we have borne the bur den and heat of the day. Tuesday 27, I went a little out of my way in order to open the new preaching-house at Shrewsbury. I did not so much wonder at the largeness, as at the seriousness of the congregation. So still, and deeply attentive a congregation I did not expect to see here. How apt are we to forget that important truth, that all things are possible with God. Wednesday 28, 1 returned to Burslem. How is the whole face of this country changed in about twenty years ! Since the potteries were introduced, inhabitants have continually flowed in from every side. Hence the wilderness is literally become a fruitful field. HouseSj villages, towns have sprung up. And the country is not more im proved than the people. The word of God has had free course among them. Sinners are daily awakened and converted to God, and believers grow in the knowledge of Christ. In the evening the house was filled with people, and with the presence of God. This constrained me to extend the service a good deal longer than T am accustomed to do. Likewise at the meeting of the society, many were filled with strong consolation. After preaching at Congleton, Macclesfield, and Stockport, in my way, on Friday the 30th, I open ed the new chapel at Manchester, about the size of that in London. The whole congregation behaved with the utmost seriousness. I trust much good will be done in this place. Sunday, April 1, I begaii reading prayers at ten o'clock. Our country friends flocked in1 from all sides. At the communion was such a sight as I am persuaded was never seen at Manchester before : eleven or twelve hundred communicants at once ; and all them fear ing God. Tuesday 3, I took a solemn leave of our affectionate friends here, and wont on to Bolton. The society here are true, original Metho dists. They are not conformed to the WOrld, eTther in its maxims, VOL, 4.— I 72 rev. j«hn wesley's journal. [afril, 178L its spirit, or it fashions ; but are simple followers of the Lamb : con sequently they increase both in grace and number. Wednesday 4, I went over to Wigan, and preached a funeral ser mon for Betty Brown, one of the first members of this society: one of whom, John Lay land, gave me the following artless account of her. " She met with us in a class about twenty years, even to the Sunday before her death, which was on Friday, March 2. Going to Market that day in good health, she returned (as she often did) without her husband, ate her supper and went to bed. About mid night he came and found her body; but the spirit was fled! Her love for God, for his cause, and for her brethren and sisters, was truly remarkable: so was her pity for backsliders. At home and abroad she was continully intent on one thing. We cannot forget her tears and prayers, which we doubt not the Lord hath heard. " A little before her death, sitting with my sisters, she seemed in deep thought, and broke out, ' I will go to God !' One of them be ing surprised, said, ' Pray, Betty, what do you mean ?' She only re plied, ' I will go to God.' So that if I think right, she was the be loved of God, the delight of his children, a dread to wicked men, and a torment to devils." Thursday 5, I went to Chester. The house was well filled with deeply attentive hearers. I perceived God had exceedingly blest the labours of the preachers. The congregations were much larger than they used to be. The society was inpreased ; and they were not only agreed among themselves, but in peace with all round about them. Friday 6, I went to Alpringham, and preached the funeral sermon of good old sister Cawley. She has been indeed a mother in Israel ; a pattern of all good works. Saturday 7, at noon, I preached atPres- ton-on-the-Hill, and in the evening at Warrington. Sunday 8, the service was at the usual hours. I came just in time to put a stop to a bad custom, which was creeping in here. A few men who had fine voices sang a psalm which no one knew, in a tune fit for an Opera, wherein three, four, or five persons sung different words at the same time ! What an insult upon common sense ! What a burlesque upon public worship ! No custom can excuse such a mixture of profane- ness and absurdity. Monday 9, Desiring to be in Ireland as soon as possible, I hasten ed to Liverpool, and found a ship ready to sail ; but the wind was contrary, till on Thursday morning the Captain came in haste, and told us, the wind was quite fair. So Mr. Floyde, Snowden, Joseph Bradford, and I, with two of our sisters, went on board : but scarcely were we out at sea, when the wind turned quite foul, and rose higher and higher. In an hour I was so affected, as I had not been for for ty years before. For two days I could not swallow the quantity of a pea of any thing solid, and very little of any liquid. I was bruised and sore from head to foot, and ill able to turn me on the bed. AH Friday, the storm increasing, the sea of consequence was rougher and rougher. Early on Saturday morning the hatches were closed, whish, together with the violent motion, made Our horses so turbu- APRIL, 1781.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 73 lent, that I was afraid we must have killed them, lest they should damage the ship. Mrs. S — now crept to me, threw her arms over me, and said, "0 Sir, we will die together!" We had by this time three feet water in the hold, though it was an exceedingly light ves sel. Mean time we were furiously driving on a lee shore ; and when the Captain cried, " Helm a-lee," she would not obey the helm. I called our brethren to prayers; and we found free access to the throne of grace. Soon after we got, I know not how, into Holyhead har bour, after being sufficiently buffetted by the winds and waves, for two days and nights. The more 1 considered, the more I was convinced, it was not the will of God I should go to Ireland at this time. So we went into the stage-coach without delay, and the next evening came to Chester. I now considered, in what place I could spend a few days to the greatest advantage : I soon thought of the Isle of Man, and those parts of Wales which I could not well see in my ordinary course. I judged it would be best to begin with the latter. So after a day or two's rest, on Wednesday 18, I set out for Brecon, purposing to take Whitchurch, (where I had not been for many years) and Shrewsbury in my way. At noon I preached in Whitchurch, to a numerous and very serious audience ; in the evening at Shrewsbury, where, seeing the earnestness of the people, I agreed to stay another day. Here I read over Sir Richard Hill's Letter to Mr. Madan, on his defence of Polygamy. I think it is home to the point; and wish al ways to write (if I must write controversy) in just such a spirit. Not knowing the best way from hence to Brecon, I thought well to go round by Worcester. I took Broseley in my way, and there by had a view of the iron bridge over the Severn : I suppose the first and the only one in Europe. It will not soon be imitated. In the evening I preached at Broseley, and on Saturday 21, went on to Worcester. 1 found one of our preachers, Joseph Cole, there ; but unable to preach through his ague. So that I could not have come more opportunely. Sunday 22, I preached at seven in our own room: at three the service began at St. Andrew's : as no notice had been given of my preaching there, only as we walked along the street, it was supposed the congregation would be small ; but it was far otherwise. High and low, rich and poor flocked together, from all parts of the city. And truly God spoke in his word ; so that I believe most of them were almost persuaded to be Christians. Were it only for this hour alone, the pains of coming to Worcester would have been well bestowed. Monday 23, Being informed it was fifty miles to Brecknock, we set out early; but on trial, we found they were computed miles. However, taking fresh horses at the Hay I just reached it in time, finding a large company waiting. Wednesday 25, 1 set out for Caer marthen ; but Joseph Bradford was so ill, that after going six miles, I left him at a friend's house, and went only myself. I came in good 74 SEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [MAY, 1781. time to Caermarthen, and enforced those solemn words on a serious congregation. Now he commandeth all men every where to repent. Thursday 26, I went on to Pembroke, and in the evening preach ed in the town-hall. Friday 27, 1 preached at Jefferson, seven miles from Pembroke, to a large congregation of honest colliers. In the evening I preached in Pembroke town-hall again, to an elegant con gregation ; and afterwards met the society, reduced to a fourth part of its ancient number: but, as they are now all in peace and love with each other, I trust they will increase again. Saturday 18, we had, in the evening, the most solemn opportunity which I have had since we came into Wales : and the society seemed all alive, and resolved to be altogether Christians. Sunday 29, At seven I preached in the room, on Lazarus, come forth ! and about ten began at St. Daniel's. The church was filled as usual; and the second Lesson gave me a suitable text, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian! I applied the words as closely as possible; and, I doubt not, some were more than almost persuad ed. In the evening I preached at Haverfordwest, to the liveliest congregation I have seen in Wales. Monday 30, 1 met about fifty children ; such a company as I have not seen for many years. Miss Warren loves them, and they love her. She has taken true pains with them, and her labour has not been in vain : several of them are much awakened ; and the behaviour of all is so composed, that they are a pattern to the whole congrega tion. Tuesday, May 1, I rode to St. David's, seventeen measured miles from Haverford. I was surprised to find all the land, for the last nine or ten miles, so fruitful and well cultivated. What a difference is there between the most western parts of England, and the most western parts of Wales ! The former, (the west of Cornwall) so barren and wild : the latter, so fruitful and well improved ! But the town itself is a melancholy spectacle : I saw but one tolerable good house in it : the rest are miserable huts indeed. I do not remember so mean a town even in Ireland. The cathedral has been a large and stately fabric, far superior to any other in Wales : but a great part of it is fallen down already; and the rest is hastening into ruin: one blessed fruit (among many) of bishops residing at a distance from their See. Here are the tombs and effigies of many ancient worthies ; Owen Tudor in particular : but the zealous Cromwellians broke off their noses, hands, and feet, and defaced them as much as possible. But what had the Tudors done to them ? Why, they were progenitors of kings. Thursday 3, About ten I preached at Spital, a large village about six miles from Haverford. Thence we went to Tracoon, and spent a few hours in that lovely retirement, buried from all the world, in the depth of woods and mountains. Friday 4, about eleven I preached in Newport church, and again at four in the evening. Saturday 5 I returned to Haverford. Sunday 6, I preached in St. Thomas' church, on We preach MAY, 1781.] EEV. JOHN WESLEYJS JOURNAL. 75 Christ crucified. It was a stumbling-block to some of the hearers. So the Scripture is fulfilled. But I had amends when I met the so ciety in the evening. Monday 7, About ten I preached near the market-place in Nar- berth, a large town ten miles east from Haverford. Abundance of people flocked together ; and they were all still as night. In the evening I preached to an equally attentive congregation at Caermar then. Tuesday 8, I had a large congregation at Llanelly and at Swan sea. Some months since, there were abundance of hearers at Neath ; but, on a sudden, one lying tongue set the society on fire, till almost half of them were scattered away : but as all, offended or not offend ed, were at the town-hall, I took the opportunity of strongly enforc ing the apostle's words, Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil-speaking, be put away from you, with all malice. I believe, God sealed his word on many hearts; and we shall have better days at Neath. About three I preached in the church near Bridge-end, and at six in the town-hall at Cowbridge. Thursday 10, I preached in our room about ten, on / am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. May God deliver us from this evil disease, which eats out all the heart of religion ! In the evening I preached in the town-hall, at Cardiff: but the congregation was almost wholly new. The far greater part of the old society, Ann Jenkins, Thomas Glascot, Ar thur Price, Jane Haswell, Nancy Newell, and a long train, are gone hence and are no more seen. And how few are followers of them, as they were of Christ ! Monday 14, Before I reached Monmouth, one met and informed me, that Mr. C, a justice of the peace, one of the greatest men in the town, desired I would take a bed at his house : of consequence, all the rabble of the town were as quiet as lambs : and we had a comfortable opportunity both night and morning. Surely this is the Lord's doing ! Tuesday 15, We went through miserable roads to Worcester. Wednesday 16, about ten I preached in the large meeting at Kidder minster, to a numerous congregation. With much difficulty we reached Salop in the evening, and found the people waiting. There has been no tumult since the new house was built. So far God hath helped us. Thursday 17, I preached at Whitchurch and Nantwich. Friday 18, at eleven, in the chapel near Northwich, and in the evening at Manchester. Sunday 20, 1 found much enlargement, in applying to a numerous congregation, the lovely account, given by St James, of pure religion and undefiled. In the afternoon I preached a funeral sermon for Mary Charlton, an Israelite indeed. From the hour that she first knew the pardoning love of God, she never lost sight of it for a moment Eleven years ago, she believed that God had cleansed her from all sin : and she shewed that she had not believed in vain, by her holy and unblamable conversation. Monday 21, 1 went over to Warrington, and preached in the even- 76 REV. JOHN WESLEY^ JOURNAL. [JUNE, 17S1. ing. Fearing many of the congregation rested in a false peace, I en deavoured to undeceive them, by closely applying those words, Ye shall know them by their fruits. Tuesday 22, about eleven, I preached at Chew-bent, and in the evening at Bolton, where the people seemed to be on the wing, just ready to take their flight to heaven. Wednesday 23, Having appointed to preach at Blackburn, I was desired to take Kabb in my way. But such a road sure no carriage ever went before ! I was glad to quit it, and use my own feet. About twelve I found a large number of plain, artless people, just fit for the gospel. So I applied our Lord's words, If any man thirst, let Mm come unto me and drink. In the evening I preached in the new house at Blackburn. Thursday 24, I went on to Preston, where the old prejudice seems to be quite forgotten. The little society has fitted up a large and convenient house, where 1 preached to a candid audience. Every one seemed to be considerably affected: I hope in some the impression will continue. Friday 25, we went on to Ambleside, and on Satur day to Whitehaven. Sunday 27, I preached morning and evening in the house ; in the afternoon in the market-place : but abundance of people went away, not being able to bear the heat of the sun. Wednesday 30, 1 embarked on board the pacquet-boat, for the Isle of Man. We had a dead calm for many hours : however, we land ed at Douglas on Friday morning. Both the preachers met me here, and gave me a comfortable account of the still increasing work of God. Before dinner, we took a walk in a garden near the town, wherein any of the inhabitants of it, may walk. It is wonderfully pleasant ; yet not so pleasant as the gardens of the Nunnery, (so it is still called,) which are not far from it. These are delightfully laid out, and yield to few places of the size in England. At six I preach ed in the market-place, to a large congregation ; all of whom, except a few children, and two or three giddy young women, were seriously attentive. Saturday, June 3, 1 rode to Castleton, through a pleasant and (now) well cultivated country. At six I preached in the market-place, to most of the inhabitants of the town, on One thing is needful. I believe, the word carried conviction into the hearts of nearly all that heard it. Afterwards I walked to the house of one of our English friends, about two miles from the town. All the day I observed, wherever I was, one circumstance that surprised me. In England, we generally hear the birds singing morning and evening ; but here thrushes and various other kinds of birds were singing all day lono\ They did not intermit, even during the noon-day heat, where they had a few trees to shade them. Sunday 4, (Whitsunday) I preached in the market-place again about nine, to a still larger congregation than before, on I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. How few of the genteel hearers could say so ! About four in the afternoon I preached at Barewle on the mountains, to a larger congregation than that in the morning: the rain began soon after I began preaching, but Ceased in a few minutes. JUNE, 1781.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL, 77 I preached on They were all filled with the Holy Ghost : and shewed in what sense this belongs to us and to our children. Between six and seven I preached on the sea-shore at Peele, to the largest congregation I have seen in the island. Even the society nearly filled the house. I soon found what spirit they were of. Hard ly in England, (unless, perhaps, at Bolton,) have I found so plain^ so earnest, so simple a people. Monday 5, We bad such a congregation at five as might have been expected on a Sunday evening. We then rode through and over the mountains to Beergarrow, where I enforced on an artless, loving con gregation, If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink. A few miles from thence we came to Bishop's Court, where good bishop Wilson resided nearly threescore years. There is something venerable, though not magnificent, in the ancient palace : and it is undoubtedly situated in one of the pleasantest spots of the whole island. At six in the evening I preached at Balleugh, but the preaching- house would not contain one-half of the congregation ; of which, the! vicar, Mr. Gilling, with his wife, sister, and daughter, were a part. He invited me to take a breakfast with him in the morning, Tuesday 5, which I willingly did. He read family prayers before breakfast in a very serious manner. After spending a little time very agreea bly, I went on to Kirk Andrews. Here also I was obliged to preach in the open air, the sun being suspended till I had done. In the af ternoon we rode through a pleasant and fruitful country to Ramsay, about as large as Peele, and more regularly built. The rain was again suspended, while I preached to well nigh all the town : but I saw no inattentive hearers. Wednesday 6, We had many of them again at five, and they were all attention. This was the place where the preachers had little hope of doing good : I trust they will be happily disappointed. This morning we rode through the most woody, and far the pleasantest pait of the island, a range of fruitful land, lying at the foot of the mountains, from Ramsay, through Sulby, to Kirkmichael. Here we stopped to look at the plain tomb-stones of those two good men, Bishop Wilson and Bishop Hildesly, whose remains are deposited, side by side, at the east end of the church. We had scarcely reach ed Peele, before the rain increased ; but here the preaching-house contained all that could come. Afterwards, Mr. Crook desired me to meet the singers. I was agreeably surprised. I have not heard better singing either at Bristol or London. Many, both men and women, have admirable voices; and they sing with good judgment. Who would have expected this in the Isle of Man ! Thursday 7, I met our little body of preachers. They were two- and-twenty in all. I never saw in England so many stout, well- looking preachers together. If their spirit be answerable to their look, I know not what can stand before them. In the afternoon I rode over to Dawby, and preached to a very large and very serious con gregation. Friday 8, Having now visited the island round; east, south, north, 78 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JUNE, 1781. and west, I was thoroughly convinced that we have no such circuit as this either in England, Scotland, or Ireland. It is shut up from the world ; and, having little trade, is visited by scarcely any strangers. Here are no papists, no dissenters of any kind, no Calvinists, no dis posers. Here is no opposition, either from the governor, a mild, hu mane man ; from the bishop, a good man ; or from the bulk of the clergy. One or two of them did oppose for a time, but they seem now to understand better ; so that we have now rather too little than too much reproach : the scandal of the cross being, for the present, ceased. The natives are a plain, artless, simple people ; unpolished : that is, unpolluted : few of them are rich or genteel ; the far greater part, moderately poor. And most of the strangers that settle among them, are men that have seen affliction. The local preachers are men of faith and love, knit together in one mind and one judgment. They speak either Manx or English, and follow a regular plan which the assistant gives them monthly. The Isle is supposed to have thirty thousand inhabitants. Allow ing half of them to be adults, and our societies to contain one or two and twenty hundred members, what a fair proportion is this ! What has been seen like this, in any part either of Great Britain or Ire land ! Saturday 9, We would willingly have set sail; but the strong north-east wind prevented us. Monday 11, it being moderate, we put to sea ; but it soon died away into a calm ; so I had time to read over and consider Dr. Johnson's Tour through Scotland. I had heard that he was severe upon the whole nation ; but I could find nothing of it. He simply mentions, (but without any bitterness,) what he approved or disapproved : and many of the reflections are extremely judicious: some of them very affecting. Tuesday 12, The calm continuing, I read over Mr. Pennant's Tour through Scotland. How amazingly different from Dr. Johnson's! He is, doubtless, a man both of sense and learning. Why has he then bad English in almost every page ? No man should be above- writing correctly. Having several passengers on board, I offered to give them a ser mon, whieh they willingly accepted: and all behaved with the ut most decency, while I shewed, His commandments are not grievous* Soon after a little breeze sprung up, which, early in the mornin», brought us to Whitehaven. Thursday 14, I had a design to preach at noon in the town-hall at Cockermouth : but Mr. Lothian offering me his meeting-house, which) was far more convenient, I willingly accepted his offer: by this mean I had a much more numerous audience, most of whom behaved well. At seven I preached at Mr. Whyte's, in Ballantyn, a little village, four miles from Cockermouth. Many assembled here who had hardly seen or heard a Methodist before. I believe some of them did no« hear in vaim After this, I saw Mr. Whyte no more : God soon- called him into a better world. Friday 15, in the evening I preached* in the town-hall at Carlisle, and on Saturday 16, reached Newcastle. Sunday 17, M the morning I preached at the Ballast-hills ; in the JULY, 1781.J REV. JOHN WEsLEy's JOURNAL. 79 afternoon at Gateshead ; and at five at the Garth-heads. To-day I heard a remark at All-Saints church, which I never read or heard before, in confirmation of that assertion of Abraham, If they hear not Moses and the Prophets. " The thing has been tried. One did rise from the dead, in the sight of a multitude of people. The name sake of this Lazarus rose from the dead1: the very Pharisees could not deny it : yet, who of them that believed not Moses and the pro phets, was thereby persuaded to repent ?" Wednesday 20, I went over to Sunderland, and preached evening and morning to a lovely congregation. Thursday 21, I read prayers and preached in Monk-Wearmouth church ; and Friday 22, returned to Newcastle. Saturday 23, I went over to Hexham, and preached in the market-place to a numerous congregation, On I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God. None were rude or uncivil in any respect; and very few were inattentive. Sunday 24, I preached in the morning at Gateshead-Fell : about noon at a village called Greenside, ten miles west of Newcastle, to the largest congregation I have seen in the north, many of whom were Roman Catholics. In the evening I preached once more at the Garth-heads, (some thought, to the largest congregation that had ever been there,) on those words in the Service, Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. After preaching at many places in the way, on Wednesday 27, I preached at York. Many of our friends met me here, so that, in the evening, the house would ill contain the congregation. And I know not when I have found such a spirit among them : they seemed to be all hungering and thirsting after righteousness. Thursday 28, I preached at eleven in the main street at Selby, to a large and quiet congregation, and in the evening at Thorne. This day I entered my seventy-ninth year: and by the grace of God, I feel no more of the infirmities of old age, than I did at twenty-nine. Friday 29, I preached at Crowle and at Epworth. I have now preached thrice a day for seven days following ; but it is just the same as if it had been but once. Saturday 30, I went over to Ouston, and found the whole town was moved. One of the chief men of the town had been just buried, and his wife a few days before. In the course of nature they might have lived many years, being only middle aged. He had known the love of God, but had choaked the good seed, by hastening to be rich: but Providence disappointed all his schemes; and, it was thought, he died of a broken heart. I took that opportunity of enforcing, What soever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might : for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom in the grave whither thou goest. Sunday, July 1, I preached, as usual, at Misterton, at Overthorpe, and at Epworth. Monday 2, I preached at Scottor about eight ; at Brigg at noon ; and in the evening in the old church-yard at Grimsby, to almost all the people of the town, on Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord. The late proof of it is in the glorious death of Robert Wilkinson, and the behaviour of his widow. vol, 4. — K > gO, KEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. " [JULY, 1781. " So firm,, yet soft ; so strong, yet so resign'd," I believe* will hardly be forgotten by any that were witnesses of it. Tuesday 3, I preached at Claythorp, three miles from Grimsby: here likewise there ha,s been an put-pouring of the Spirit I was re minded here of what I saw at Cardiff almost forty years ago. I could not go into any of the little houses, but presently it was filled with people; and I was constrained to pray with them in every house, or they would not be satisfied. Several of these are renewed in love, and give a plain, scriptural account of their experience. And there is scarcely a house in the village, wherein there is not one or more earnestly athdrst for salvation. Wednesday 4, 1 palled upon an honest m#n, and I hopo, took him out of the hands of an egregious quack, who was pouring in medicines upon him, for what he called, "Wind in the nerves!" In the evening I preached at Louth, now as quiet as Grimsby. When shall we learn " To despair of none ?" Thursday 5, I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Brackenbury again, though still exceedingly weak. His chapel was thoroughly filled in the evening ; I trust, with sincere hearers. Friday 6, I crossed over, to Langham-Row, where the high wind would not suffer me to preach abroad ; but the house tolerably con tained the congregation ^ most, of whom attended again at five in the morning. To-day I finished the second volume of Dr. Robertson's History of America. His language is always clear and strong, and frequently elegant: and 1 suppose his history is preferable to any History of America, which has appeared in the English tongue. But I cannot admire, first, his intolerable prolixity, in this history, as well as his History of Charles the Fifth. He promises eight books of the History of America, and fills four of them with critical dissertations: true, the dissertations are sensible; but they have lost their way; they are not history : and they are swelled beyond all proportion ; doubtless, for the benefit of the author and the bookseller, rather than the reader. I cannot admire, secondly, a Christian divine writing a history, with so very little of Christianity in it : nay, he seems studiously to avoid saying any tiling, which might imply, that he believes the Bible. I can still less, ad m ire, thirdly, his, speaking so honourably of a profess ed infidel ;, yea, and, referring to his master-piece of infidelity, " The Sketch of the History of M#n :" as artful, as unfair, as disingenuous a book, as even, Toland's Nazarenus. Least of all can I admire, fourthly, his copying after Dr. Hawksworth, (who once professed better things,), in. totally excludipg tbe Creator from governing the world I Was it not enough, never to mention the Providence of God where there was the fairest occasion ? without saying expressly, " The fortune of Cortez," or Chance, did thus or thus ? So far as Fortune or Chance governs the world, God has no place in it. The poor American, though net pretending to be a Christian,, knew better than this. When tbe Indian was asked, "Why do you think the beloved ones take care of you ?" He answered,, " When I was, in the battle the bullet went On this side and on that side -y and; this mfio JULY, 1781.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. died, and that mart died ; and T. am alive ! So, I know, the beloved ones take care of tne." It is true, the doctrine of a particular Providence, (arid any but a particular Providence is ho Providence at all) is absolutely Out of fashion in England. And a prudent author might Write this to gain the favour of his gentle readers : yet I will not say this is real pru dence, because he may lose hereby more than he gains ; as the ma jority even of Britons, to this day, retain some sort of Respect for the Bible. If it were worth while to mention a little thing, after things of so much greater importance, I Would add, I was surprised that so sensible a writer, in enumerating so many reasons, why it is so much Colder in the southern hemisphere than it is in the northern : why it is colder, for instance, at forty degrees south than at fifty north latitude ; should forget the main, the primary reason, namely, the greater dis tance of the sun ? For is it not well known, that the sun" (to speak with the vulgar) is longer on the north side the line than the South? That he is longer in the six northern signs than the southern, so that there is a difference (says GraVesande) of nine days ? NoW, if the northern hemisphere be obverted to the sun longer than the southern, does riot this necessarily imply, that the northern hemisphere Will be Warmer than the southern ? And is not this the primary reason of its being so? Saturday 7, I designed to go from hence to Boston ; but a message from Mr. Pugh, desiring me to preach in his chlirch on Sunday, made me alter my design : so, procuring a guide, I set out for Railce- by. We rode through Tattershall, where there are large remains of a stately castle : and there Was in the chancel of the old church the finest painted glass, (so it Was esteemed) in England ; but the pru dent owner, considering it brought him in nothing by staying there, lately sold it for a round sum of money. Here I met with such a ferry as I never saw before. The boat Was managed by an honest countryman Who knew just nothing of the matter, and a young woman equally skilful. HoWever, though the river was fifty yards broad, We got Over it iri an hour and a half. We then went ori through the fens in a marvellous road, sometimes tracked, and sometimes not, till about six we came to Rauceby, and found the people gathered from all parts ; I preached on those words in the second Lesson, There is neither Jew nor Gentile, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free ; but Christ is all, and in all. Sunday 8, The congregation was still larger. Hence I rode over to Welby, ahd preached in Mr. DodWcll's church in the afternoon atid iii the evening, to a numerous and serious congregation. Mon day 9, I preached at Granthanl ill the open air, for no house would Contain the congregation, and none made the least disturbance, any more than at Newark, (where I preached ill the evening,) or in the castle-yard at Lincoln, on Tuesday 10. Wednesday 11, I preached *t Newtort-upbn-Trertt, and GftiftSbOrOUgh. After visiting marly other societies, I Crossed over into the West- Ridlftg of Yorkshire. Monday 23, 1 preached at Yeatfdn, tb a Ikrge §2 HEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [AUG. 1781. congregation. I had heard the people there were remarkably dead ; if so, they were now remarkably quickened ; for I know not when I have seen a whole congregation so moved. Tuesday 24, we had fifty or sixty children at five, and as many or more in the evening; and more affectionate ones I never saw : for the present, at least, God has touched their hearts. On Wednesday and Thursday I preached at Bradforth and Halifax ; on Friday, at Greatland chapel and Huddersfield : after preaching, I retired to Longwood-house, one of the pleasantest spots in the county. Saturday 28, I preached at Longwood-house, at Mirfield, and at Dawgreen. Sunday 29, I preached at eight before the house. I ex pected to preach at one, as usual, under the hill, at Birstal ; but after the church service was ended, the clerk exclaimed, with a loud voice, " The Rev. Mr. Wesley is to preach here in the afternoon." So I desired Mr. Pawson to preach at one. The church began at half an hour past two, and I spoke exceedingly plain to such a congregation as never met there before. In the evening I preached at Bradforth to thousands upon thousands, on The wages of sin is death ; but the gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Monday 30, I crossed over to Tadcaster at noon, and in the even ing to York : hence I took a little circuit through Malton, Scarbo rough, Beverly, Hull, and Pocklington, and came to York again. Sunday, August 5, At the old church in Leeds, we had eighteen clergymen, and about eleven hundred communicants. I preached there at three ; the church was thoroughly filled, and I believe most could hear, while I explained the New Covenant, which God has now made with the Israel of God. Monday 6, I desired Mr. Fletcher, Dr. Coke, and four more of our brethren, to meet every evening, that we might consult together on any difficulty that occurred. On Tuesday our Conference began, at which were present about seventy preachers, whom I had severally invited to come and assist me with their advice, in carrying on the great work of God. Wednesday 8, I desired Mr. Fletcher to preach. I do not wonder he should be so popular; not only because he preaches with all his might, but because the power of God attends both his preaching and praying. On Monday and Tuesday we finish ed the remaining business of the Conference, and ended it with so lemn prayer and thanksgiving. Wednesday 15, I went to Sheffield : in the afternoon I took a view of the chapel lately built by the Duke of Norfolk : one may .safely say, there is none like it in the three kingdoms, nor, I suppose, in the world. It is a stone building, an octagon, about eighty feet dia meter : a cupola, which is at a great height, gives some, but not much light : a little more is given by four small windows, which are under the galleries : the pulpit is moveable : it rolls upon wheels, and is shifted once a quarter, that all the pews may face it in their turns ; I presume the first contrivance of the kind in Europe. After preaching in the evening to a crowded audience, and exhort ing the society to brotherly love, I took chaise with Dr. Coke, and travelling day and night, the next evening came to London. We ob- SEPT. 1781.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. S3 served Friday the 17th, as a Fast Day, and concluded it with a so lemn watch-night. Having finished my business in town for the present, on Sunday 19, at eight in the evening, I took coach, with my new fellow-traveller, George Whitefield, and on Monday even ing preached at Bath. Tuesday 21, I went on to Bristol, and after resting a day, on Thursday 23, set out for Cornwall. Finding, after breakfast, that I was within a mile of my old friend G. S — , 1 walked over, and spent an hour with him. He is all-ori ginal still, like no man in the world, either in sentiments or any thing about him : but, perhaps, if I had his immense fortune, I might be as great an oddity as he. About six in the evening I. preached at Taunton, to a numerous congregation. I found the letters concerning popery had much abat ed prejudice here. Friday 24, I preached at Collumpton, about noon, and at Exeter in the evening. Saturday 28, 1 preached in the square at Plymouth-Dock, to a quieter congregation than usual. Sunday 26, between one and two, I began in the new house in Plymouth : the large congregation was all attention ; and there seemed reason to hope, that even here we shall find some fruit of our labour. In the evening I preached again in the square, on the story of the Pharisee and Publican, to such a congregation for number and seriousness to gether, as I never saw there before. Monday 27, I was desired to preach at Trenuth at noon, a little way (they said) out of the road. The little way proved six or seven miles, through a road ready to break our wheels in pieces. Howev er, I just reached St. Austle time enough to preach : and God great ly comforted the hearts of his people. Tuesday 28, between nine and ten we had such a storm of rain, as I do not remember to have seen in Europe before. It seemed ready to beat in the windows of the chaise, and in three minutes drenched our horsemen from head to foot. We reached Truro, however, at the appointed time. I have not for many years seen a congregation so universally affected. One would have imagined, every one that was present had a desire to save his soul. In the evening I preached in the High-street at Helston. I scarce ly know a town in the whole county which is so totally changed. Not a spark of that bitter enmity to the Methodists appears, in which the people here for many years gloried above their fellows. Going through Marazion, I was told that a large congregation was waiting: so I stepped out of my chaise and began immediately; and we had a gracious shower : some were cut to the heart ; but more rejoiced with joy unspeakable. In the evening I preached in the market-place at Penzance. I designed afterwards to meet the society : but the people were so eager to hear all they could, that they quickly filled the house from end to end. This is another of the towns wherein the whole stream of the people is turned, as it were, from east to west. We had a happy season, both at St. Just on Thursday evening, and in the market-place at St. Ives on Friday. Saturday, September 1, I made an end of that curious book, Dr. 84 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [SEPT. 1781. Parson's " Remains of Japhet" The very ingenious author has struck much light into some of the darkest parts of ancient history. And, although I cannot entirely subscribe to every proposition which he advances, yet I apprehend, he has sufficiently proved the main of his hypothesis : namely, 1, That, after the flood, Shem and his descendants peopled the greatest part of Asia. 2, That Ham and his children peopled Africa. 3, That Europe was peopled by the two sons of Japhet, Gomer, and Magog: the southern and south-western, by Gomer, and his chil dren ; and the north and the north-western, by the children of Ma gog. 4, That the former were called Gomerians, Cimmerians, Cim- brians; and afterwards Celtaj, and Gauls: the latter were called by the general name of Scythians, Scuiti, Scots. 5, That the Gome rians spread swiftly through the north of Europe, as far as the Cim- brian Chersonesus, (including Sweden, Denmark, Norway, and di vers other countries,) and then into Ireland, where they multiplied, very early, into a considerable nation. 6, That some ages after, another part of them who had first settled in Spain, sailed to Ireland, under Milea, or Milesius; and, conquering the first inhabitants, took possession of the land. 7, That about the same time the Gomerians came to Ireland, the Magogians or Scythians came to Britain; so early, that both still spoke the same language, and well understood each other. 8, That the Irish spoke by the Gomerians, and the Welsh spoke by the Magogians, are one and the same language, ex pressed by the same seventeen letters, which were long after brought by a Gomerian Prince into Greece. 9, That all the languages of Europe, Greek and Latin in particular, are derived from this. 10, That the Antediluvian language, spoken by all till after the flood, and then continued in the family of Shem, was Hebrew; and from this [the Hebrew] tongue many of the Eastern languages are derived, The foregoing particulars this fine writer has made highly probable: and these may be admitted, though we do not agree to his vehement panegyric on the Irish language ; much less receive all the stories told by the Irish poets or chroniclers, as genuine, authentic history. At eleven I preached in Cambourn church-town, and I believe the hearts of all the people were bowed down before the Lord. Af ter the quarterly-meeting in Redruth, I preached in the market place, on the first principle, Ye are saved through faith. It is also the last point: and it connects the first point of religion with the last. Sunday 5, About five in the evening I preached at Gwenap : I be lieve two or three and twenty thousand were present. And I believe God enabled me to speak, that even those who stood farthest off could hear distinctly : I think this is my ne plus ultra. I shall scarcely see a larger congregation, till we meet in the air. After preaching at Bodmin, Launceston, Tiverton, and Halberton, on Wednesday 5, about noon, I preached at Taunton. I believe it my duty to relate here what some will esteem a most notable instance of enthusiasm. Be it so or not, I aver the plain fact. In an hour after we left Taunton, one of the chaise horses was on a sudden so lame, that he could hardly set foot to the ground. It being impossible SEPT. 1781.] REV. JOHN WESLEy's JOURNAL. 85 to procure any human help, I knew of no remedy but prayer. Imme diately the lameness was gone, and he went just as he did before. In the evening I preached at South-Brent, and the next day went on to Bristol. Friday 8, I went over to Kingswood, and made a particular inqui ry into the management of the school. I found some of the rules had not heen observed at all, particularly that of rising in the morn ing: surely Satan has a peculiar spite at this school ! What trouble has it cost me for above these thirty years ! I can plan, but who will execute! I know not; God, help me ! Sunday 9, In the calm, sun-shiny evening, I preached near King's-square : I know nothing more solemn, than such a congrega tion, praising God with one heart and one voice. Surely, they who talk of the indecency of field-preaching never saw such a sight as this. Monday 10, I preached at Paulton and Shepton-Mallet, to a live ly, increasing people in each place. Tuesday 11, I found the same cause of rejoicing at Coleford, and the next evening at Frome. Thurs day 13, I preached at Road and at Bradford. Friday 14, after an interval of thirty years, I preached again in Trowbridge. About two I preached near the church in Freshford, and then spent a day or two at Bath. On Monday 17, I preached at Chew Magna and Stoke; on Tues day at Clutton and Pensford: but Pensford is now a dull, dreary place, the flower of the congregation being gone. Thursday 20, I went over to Mangots'-field, a place famous for all manner of wick edness, and the only one in the neighbourhood of Kingswood, which we had totally neglected : but, on a sudden, light is sprung up even in this thick darkness. Many inquire, What they must do to be saved. Many of these have broken off outward sin, and are earnest ly calling for an inward Saviour. I preached in the main street, to almost all the inhabitants of the town, on Believe in the Lord Je sus Christ, and thou shalt be saved. Friday 21, I preached at Thornbury, where I had not been before for nearly forty years. It seems as if good might at length be done here also ; as an entire new generation is now come up, in the room of the dry, stupid stocks that were there before. On Monday 24, And the following days, I met the classes at Bris tol,, and was not a little surprised to find that the society is still de creasing. Certainly we have all need to stir up the gift of God that is, in us, and with all possible care, to strengthen the things that re main. Thursday 27, I preached at Bath and Bradford, and on Friday at Trowbridge. How long did we toil here and take nothing ! At length, it seems, the answer of many prayers is come. Friday 28, about noon I preached at Keynsham, and not without hopes of doing good even here. Since Miss Owen has removed from Publow, Miss Bishop has set up a school here; and it is worthy to be called a Christian schoql: it is what the school! at Publow was! Saturday 2-9, I spe&t an hour with Mr. Henderson at Haaham-, 86 rev. john wesley's journal. [out. 178 1. and particularly inquired into his whole method. And I am per suaded, there is not such another house for lunatics in the three king doms : he has a peculiar art of governing his patients, not by fear but by love : the consequence is, many of them speedily recover, and love him ever after. Thursday, October 4, I was importuned to preach the sermon to the condemned at Bristol ; I did so, though of little hope of doing good, the criminals being eminently impenitent : yet they were for the present melted into tears ; and they were not out of God's reach. Sunday 7, I took my leave of the congregation in the new square, in a calm, delightful evening. Monday 8, 1 preached at the Devizes about eleven ; at Sarum in the evening. Tuesday 9, I preached at Winchester, whither I went, with great expectation, to see that celebrated painting in the cathedral, The raising of Lazarus but I was disappointed. I observed, 1, There was such a huddle of figures, that had I not been told, I should not ever have guessed what they meant. 2, The colours in general were far too glaring, such as neither Christ nor his followers ever wore. When will painters have common sense ! Wednesday 10, I opened the new preaching-house just finished at Newport, in the Isle of Wight. After preaching I explained the na ture of a Methodist Society, of which few had before the least con ception. Friday 11, I came to London, and was informed, that my wife Hied on Monday. This evening she was buried, though I was not informed of it till a clay or two after. Monday 15, I set out for Oxfordshire, and spent five days with much satisfaction among the societies. I found no offences amon* them at all, but they appeared to walk in love. On Friday 19, I re turned to London. Sunday 21, About ten at night we set out for Norwich, and came thither about noon on Monday. Finding the people loving and peaceable, I spent a day or two with much satisfaction, and on Wed nesday went on to Yarmouth. There is a prospect of gord here also, the two grand hinderers having taken themselves away. At Low- estoffe I found much life and much love. On Friday I preached at Loddon, and on Saturday returned so Norwich. Sunday 28, I preached at Bear-street to a large congregation, most of whom had never seen my face before. At half an'hour after two and at five, 1 preached to our usual congregation, and the next morn ing commended them to the grace of God. Monday 29, I went to Fakenham, and in the evening preached in the room, built by Miss Franklin, now Mrs. Parker." I believe most of the town were present. Tuesday 30, I went to Wells a considerable sea-port, twelve miles from Fakenham, where also Miss Franklin had opened a door by preaching abroad, though at the peril of her life. She was followed by a young woman of the town, with whom I talked largely, and found her very sensible, and much de voted to God. From her I learned, " That, till the Methodists came, they had none but female teachers in this country; and there were six of these within ten or twelve miles, all of whom were members »EC 1781.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 87 of the Church of England." I preached about ten in a small, neat preaching-house, and all but two or three were attentive. Here are a few who appear to be in great earnest; and if so, they will surely increase. At two in the afternoon I preached at Walsingham, a place fa mous for many generations. Afterwards I walked over what is left of the famous abbey, the east end of which is still standing. We then went to the Friary ; the cloisters and chapel whereof are almost en tire. Had there been a grain of virtue or public spirit in Henry the Eighth, these noble buildings need not have run to ruin. Wednesday 31, I went to Lynn, and preached in the evening to a very genteel congregation. 1 spoke more strongly than I am accus tomed to do, and hope they were not all sermon-proof Friday, November 2, I returned to London. Monday 5, I began visiting the classes, and found a considerable increase in the society : this I impute chiefly to a small company of young persons who have kept a prayer-meeting at five every morning. In the following week I visited most of the country societies, and found them increasing rather than decreasing. Sunday 18, I preached at St. John's, Wap- ping, and God was present, both to wound and heal. Monday 19, travelling all night, I breakfasted at Towcester, and preached there in the evening and the following morning. Tuesday 20, we had a pleasant walk to Whittlebury. This is still the loveliest congrega tion, as well as the liveliest society in the circuit. Thursday 22, we had a large congregation at Northampton. On Friday I returned to London. * Monday 26, 1 took a.little tour through Sussex; and Wednesday 28, I preached at Tunbridge-Wells, in the large Presbyterian meet ing-house, to a well-dressed audience, and yet deeply serious. On Thursday I preached at Sevenoaks. Friday 30, 1 went on to Shore- ham, to see the venerable old man : he is in his eighty-ninth year, and has nearly lost his sight; but he has not lost his understanding, nor even his memory, and is full of faith and love. On Saturday I returned to London. Sunday, December 2, I preached at St. Swithin's-church in the evening. About eight I took coach, and reached St. Neot's in the morning. I preached in the evening to a larger congregation than I ever saw there before. Tuesday 4, about nine I preached for the first time at Bugden, and in the evening at Huntington. Wednesday 5, I was at Bedford. On Thursday 6, our house at Luton was thorough ly filled, and I believe the people felt, as well as heard those words, Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. On Saturday I was in London. Monday 10, I went to Canterbury, and preached in the evening, on Casting all our care on God: it was a word in season. Tuesday 14, finding abundance of people troubled, as though England were on the brink of destruction, I applied those, comfortable words, / will not destroy the city for ten's sake. Wednesday 12, I preach ed at Chatham, and the next day returned to London. Friday 21,. We observed all over England as a day of fasting and vol. 4,-^-L 88 BEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL- [JAN. 1782, prayer ; and surely God will be intreated for a sinful nation. Friday 28, by reading in Thurloe's Memoirs, the original papers of the treaty at Uxbridge, Agnovi fatum Carthaginis ; 1 saw it was then flatly impossible for the King to escape destruction: for the Parlia ment were resolved to accept no terms, unless he would, 1, Give up all his friends to beggary or death : and, 2, Require all the three kingdoms to swear to the solemn league and covenant : he had no other choice ! Who then can blame him for breaking off' that treaty ? Tuesday, January 1, 1782, I began the service at four, in West- street chapel, and again at ten. In the evening many of us at the new chapel rejoiced in God our Saviour. Sunday 6, A larger company than ever before met together to re new their covenant with God. And the dread of God, in an eminent degree, fell upon the whole congregation. Monday 14, Being informed, that through the ill conduct of the preachers, things were in much disorder at Colchester, I went down, hoping to strengthen the things which remained, that were ready to die. I found that part of the class-leaders were dead, and the rest had left the society ; the bands were totally dissolved. Morning preaching was given up; and hardly any, except on Sunday, attend ed the evening preaching. This evening, however, we had a very large congregation, to whom I proclaimed, The terrors of the Lord. I then told them, I would immediately restore the morning preach ing: and the next morning I suppose an hundred attended. In the day time I visited as many as I possibly could, in all quarters of the town : I then inquired, who were proper and'willingto meet in band? and who were fittest for leaders, either of bands or classes ? The con gregation this evening was larger than the last; and many again set their hands to the plough. 0 may the Lord confirm the fresh de sires he has given, that they may no more look back! Friday, March 1, We had a very solemn and comfortable watch- night at West-street. Sunday 3, I took coach, and the next evening had a watch-night at Bath. Tuesday and Wednesday, after meet ing the classes, I visited as many as I could, chiefly of the sick and poor." Thursday 7, I preached about eleven, at Keynsham, and in the evening at Bristol. Friday 18, and most of the following days, I visited Mr. C n, just hovering between life and death. What a blessing may this illness be! On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednes day, I visited the classes, and found a little increase. Friday 25, I opened the new house at Freshford. In the after noon I called at Mr. Henderson's at Hannam, and spent some time with poor disconsolate Louisa. Such a sight, in the space of fourteen years, I never saw before! Pale and wan, worne with sorrow, beaten with wind and rain, having been so long exposed to all weath ers, with her hair rough and frizzled, and only a blanket wrapped round her, native beauty gleamed through all. Her features were small and finely turned : her eyes had a peculiar sweetness: her arms and fingers were delicately shaped, and her voice soft and agreeable: but her understanding was in ruins. She appeared partly insane, pa tly sillyi and childish. She would answer no question concern- SSARCH, 1782.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 89 ing herself, only that her name was Louisa. She seemed to take no notice of aqy person or thing, and seldom spoke above a word or two at a time. Mr. Henderson has restored her health, and she loves him much. She is in a small room by herself, and wants no thing that is proper for her. Some time since a gentleman called, who said he came two hun dred miles on purpose to inquire after her. When he saw her face he trembled exceedingly; but all he said was, "She was born in Germany, and is not now four-and-twenty years old !" In the evening I preached at Kingswood School, and afterwards met the bands. The colliers spoke without any reserve; I was great-, ly surprised. Not only the matter of what they spoke was rational and scriptural, but the language, yea, and the manner were exactly proper. Who teacheth like him? Monday 18, I left our friends at Bristol with satisfaction, having been much refreshed among them. In the evening the next day, I preached at Stroud; Wednesday 20, at Gloucester, Tewksbury, and Worcester. Friday 22, About two in the morning we had such a storm as I never remember. Before it began, our chamber-door clattered to and fro exceedingly: so it sounded to us; although, in fact, it did not move at all. I then distinctly heard the door open, and having a light, rose and went to it; but it was fast shut. Mean time the window was wide open. I shut it and went to sleep again. So deep a snow fell in the night, that we were afraid the roads would be impassible: however, we set out in the afternoon, and made shift to get to Kid derminster. We had a large congregation in the evening, though it was intensely cold; and another at seven in the morning, Saturday 23, and all of them were deeply serious. It was with a good deal of difficulty we got to Bridgenorth, much of the road being blocked up with snow. In the afternoon we had another kind of difficulty: the roads were so rough and so deep, that we were in danger every now and then, of leaving our wheels behind us. But by adding two horses to my own, at length we got safe to Madeley. Both Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher complained, that after all the pains they had taken, they could not prevail on the people to join in soci ety, no, nor even to meet in a class. Resolving to try, I preached to a crowded audience, on lam not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. I followed the blow in the afternoon, by strongly applying those words, Awake thou that steepest, afterwards enforcing the necessi ty of Christian fellowship on all who desired either to awake or keep awake. I then desired those that were willing to join together for this purpose, to call upon Mr. Fletcher and me after service. Ninety- four or ninety-five persons did so ; about as many men as women. We explained to them the nature of a Christian society, and they willingly joined therein. Monday 25, I spent an agreeable hour at the boarding-school in Sheriff-Hales. I believe the Miss Yeoman's are well qualified for their office. Several of the children are under strong drawings. We then went on to Newcastle-under-Lyme. (This is the name of*a little 90 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [APRIL, 1782. river, which runs near the town.) Tuesday 26, 1 found many at Burs lem too, under sad apprehensions of the public danger. So I applied to these also those comfortable words, I will not destroy it for ten's Thursday 28, Coming to Congleton, I found the Calvinists were just breaking in, and striving to make havoc of the flock. Is this brotherly love ? Is this doing as we would be done to ? No more than robbing on the highway. But if it is decreed, they cannot help it : so we cannot blame them. Good-Friday, March 29, I came to Macclesfield just time enough to assist Mr. Simpson in the laborious service of the day. I preach ed for him morning and afternoon ; and we administered the sacra ment to about thirteen hundred persons. While we were adminis tering, I heard a low, soft, solemn sound, just like that of an iEolian harp. It continued five or six minutes, and so affected many, that they could not refrain from tears. It then gradually died away. Strange that no other organist (that I know) should think of this! In the evening I preached at our room. Here was that harmony which art cannot imitate. Saturday 30, As our friends at Leek, thirteen miles from Mac clesfield, would take no denial, I went over, and preached about noon, to a lovely congregation. God bore witness to his word in an uncommon manner, so that I could not think much of my labour. Easter-Day, March 31,1 preached in the church at Macclesfield, morning and evening, where we had about eight hundred communi cants. In the evening we had a love-feast; and such a one as I had not seen for many years. Sixteen or eighteen persons gave a clear, scriptural testimony of being renewed in love. And many others told what God had done for their souls, with inimitable simplicity. Monday, April 1, We set out in the morning for Chapel-en-le- Frith : but such a journey I have seldom had, unless in the middle of January. Wind, snow, and rain we had in abundance, and roads almost impassable : however, at last we got to the town, and had a good walk from thence to the chapel, through the driving snow, about half a mile. But I soon forgot my labour, finding a large con gregation that were all athirst for God. Tuesday 2, Aboutten I preached atNew-Mills, to as simple a peo ple as those at Chapel. Perceiving they had suffered much by not having the doctrine of Christian Perfection clearly explained, and strongly pressed upon them, I preached expressly on the head, and spoke to the same effect in meeting the society. The spirits of many greatly revived ; and they are now going on to perfection. I found it needful to press the same thing at Stockport in the evening. Thurs day 4, I preached at noon in the new preaching-house at Ashton, to as many as the house would hold. The inscription over the door is, Can any good come out of Nazareth ? Come and see. In the even ing I preached at Manchester. Friday 5, About one I preached at Oldham, and was surprised to see all the street lined with little children ; and such children as I never saw till now. Before preaching they only ran round me and APRIL, 1782.] REV. JOHN WESLEY* S JOURNAL. 91 before me ; but after it, a whole troop, boys and girls, closed me in, and would not be content, till I shook each of them by the hand. Being then asked to visit a dying woman, I no sooner entered the room, than both she and her companions were in such an emotion as I have seldom seen. Some laughed, some cried ; all were so trans ported that they could hardly speak. 0 ! how much better is it to go the poor, than to the rich. And to the house of mourning, than to the house of feasting ! . About this time I had a remarkable letter ; part of it was as follows : " The work of God prospers among us here: I never saw any thing equal to it. The last time I was at St. Just, the leaders gave me an account of seventy persons, who had found either pardon or perfect love, within the last fortnight And the night and morning I was there, twenty more were delivered. One-and-twenty likewise were then added to the society, most of whom have found peace with God. " CHRISTOPHER WATKINS." Saturday 13, 1 preached at St. Helen's, a small, but populous town, ten or twelve miles from Liverpool, in Joseph Harris's house, who is removed thither, from Kingswood, to take care of the copper-works. Surely God has brought him thither for good. The people seem to be quite ripe for the gospel. I was waked at half past two this morning-, as was Mr. Broadbent also, by a very loud noise, like a vast crack of thunder, accompanied with a bright flash of light. It made the whole room shake, and all the tables and chairs therein jar. But, what is strange, none in the house, or in the town heard it beside us. Monday 15, 1 saw an uncommon sight; the preaching-house at Wigan filled, yea, crowded ! Perhaps God will cause fruit to spring up, even in this desolate place. I had now leisure to transcribe a letter written last May, from Amherst, in Nova-Scotia, by a young man whose father, some years since, went thither with his whole family. " In the year 1779, 1 saw, if I would go to heaven, I must lead a new life. But I did not know I wanted an inward change, or see the deplorable state I was in by nature, till I was at a prayer-meeting, held at Mr. Oxley's. While they were praying, my heart began to throb within me, my eyes gushed out with tears, and I cried aloud for mercy, as did most that were in the room, about fourteen in num ber. One indeed could not hold from laughing, when we began to cry out; but it was not long before he cried as loud as any. In a few moments it pleased God to fill Mrs. Oxley with joy unspeakable. After this, we went almost every night to Mr. Oxley's, to sing and pray. Going thence one night, and seeing the Northern Lights, I thought, 'What if the day of judgment be coming." I threw myself down on the ground, and cried to the Lord for mercy. On Sunday, Mr. Wells, an old Methodist, came to Amherst, and gave us an ex hortation, in which he said, 'Sin and repent, sin and repent, till you repent in the bottomless pit' The words went like a dagger to my heart, and I continued mourning after God, for five weeks and four 92 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [APRIL, 1782. days, till our monthly meeting. I was then strongly tempted to put an end to my life; but God enabled me to resist the temptation. Two days after, an old Methodist, after praying with me, said, 'I think you will get the blessing before morning.' About two hours after, while we were singing a hymn, it pleased God to reveal his Son in my heart Since that time, I have had many blessed days, and many happy nights. "One Sunday night, after my brother Dicky and I were gone to bed, I asked him, 'Can you believe?' He answered, 'No.' I exhorted him to wrestle hard with God, and got up to pray with him : but he was unbelieving still ; so I went to sleep again. Yet not being satis fied, after talking largely to him, I got up again, and began praying for him, being fully persuaded, that God would set his soul at liberty: and so he did : he pardoned all his sins, and bade him Go in peace. " It being now between twelve and one, I waked my brothers, John and Thomas, and told them the glad tidings. They got up ; we went to prayer ; and, when we rose from our knees, Tommy declared, ' God has blotted out all my sins.' I then went to my father and mo ther, who were both seeking salvation, and told them the joyful news. My father said, ' Willy, pr-ay for us.' I did, and earnestly exhorted him to wrestle with God for himself: so he did, and it was not long before God set his soul also at liberty. The next morning it pleased him to shew my sister Sally his pardoning love. Blessed be his name for all his benefits ! "Not long after, Mr. Oxley's son came to our house, and being in bed with me, complained of his hardness of heart. After I had talked with him a little while, the Lord laid his hand upon him in a wonderful manner, so that he rolled up and down and roared as in the agonies of death : but between one and two in the morning, he likewise could rejoice in God his Saviour. These are a few of the wonderful works of God among us : but he is also working on the hearts of the inhabitants in general. "WILLIAM BLACK, Junior." Monday 22, I preached about eleven in Todmorden church, tho roughly filled with attentive hearers : in the afternoon in Heptonstall church; and at the Ewood in the evening. Wednesday 24, the flood caused by the violent rains shut me up at Longwood house; but on Thursday tbe rain turned to snow ; so on Friday 1 got to Halifax, where Mr. Floyd lay in a high fever, almost dead for want of sleep. This was prevented by the violent pain in one of his feet, which was much swelled, and so sore that it could not be touched. We joined in prayer, that God would fulfil his word, and give his brloved sleep: presently, the swelling, the soreness, the pain were gone, and he had a good night's rest. Saturday 27, As we rode to Keighley, the north-east wind was scarcely supportable; the frost being exceedingly sharp, and all the mountains covered with snow. Sunday 28, Bingley church was hot, but the heat was very supportable both in the morning and af ternoon. Monday 29, 1 preached at Skipton, in Craven ; at Grassing- MAY, 1782.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 93 ton ; and at Patelely-bridge. Tuesday 30, I found Miss Ritchie at Otley, still hovering between life and death. Thursday, May 2, I met the select society, all but two retaining the pure love of God, which some of them received nearly thirty years ago. On Saturday evening I preached to an earnest congregation at Yeadon. ' The same congregation was present in the morning, together with an army of little children; full as numerous, and almost as loving as those that surrounded us at Oldham. Sunday 5, One of my horses having been so thoroughly lamed at Otley, that he died in three or four days, I purchased another; but as it was his way, to stand still when he pleased, I set out as soon as possible. When we had gone three miles, the chaise stuck fast. I walked for about a mile, and then borrowed a horse, which brought me to Birstal before the prayers were ended. I preached on those words in the Gospel, Do ye now believe? which gave me an oppor tunity of speaking strong words, both to believers and unbelievers. In the evening I preached at Leeds, on St. James's beautiful descrip tion of pure religion and undefiled, To visit the fatherless and wid ows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world. Thursday 9, I preached at Wakefield in the evening. Such at tention sat on every face, that it seemed as if every one in the con gregation was on the brink of believing. Friday 10, I preached at Sheffield. Saturday 11, about noon at Doocaster, and in the evening at Epworth. I found the accounts I had received of the work of God here were not at all exaggerated. Here is a country town con taining a little more than eight or nine hundred grown people; and there has been such a work among them, as we have not seen in so short a time either at Leeds, Bristol, or London. Sunday 12, About eight I preached at Misterton ; about one at Overthorpe. .Many of the Epworth children were there, and their spirit spread to all around them. But the huge congregation was in the market-place at Epworth, and the Lord in the midst of them. The love-feast which followed, exceeded all: I never knew such a one here before. As soon as one had done speaking, another began. Several of them were children; but they spoke with the wisdom of the aged, though with the fire of youth. So out of the mouth of babes and sucklings did God perfect praise. Monday 13, I preach ed at Thorne. Never did I see such a congregation here before. The flame of Epworth hath spread hither also : in seven weeks fifty per sons have found peace with God. Tuesday 14, Some years ago, four factories for spinning and weav ing were set up at Epworth. In these a large number of young wo men, and boys, and girls were employed. The whole conversation of these was profane and loose to the last degree : but some of them stumbling in at the prayer-meeting, were suddenly cut to the heart. They never rested till they had gained their companions. The whole scene was changed. In three of the factories, no more lewd ness or profaneness were found ; for God had put a new song in their mouth, and blasphemies were turned to praise. Those three I visit- 94 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JUNE, 1782. ed to-day, and found religion had taken deep root in them: no trifling word was heard among them, and they watch over each other in love. I found it exceedingly good to be there, and we rejoiced together in the God of our salvation. Wednesday 15, I set out for the other side of Lincolnshire. Thursday 16, I preached in the new house at Barrow. 1 was well pleased to meet with my old fellow-traveller, Charles Delamot here. He gave me an invitation to lodge at his house, which I willingly accepted of. He seemed to be just the same as when we lodged to gether, five and forty years ago: only he complained of the infirmi ties of old age-, which, through the mercy of God, I know nothing of. Hence I went by Hull, Beverley, Bridlington, and then hastened to Newcastle-upon-Tyne, where I preached on Sunday the 26. Mon day 27, I set out for Scotland, and Wednesday 29, reached Dunbar. The weather was exceedingly rough and stormy : yet we had a large and serious congregation. Thursday 30, finding the grounds were so flooded, that the common roads were not passable, we provided a guide to lead us a few miles round, by which means we came safe to Edinburgh. Friday 31, As 1 lodged with Lady Maxwell, at Saughton-hal!, (a good old mansion-house three miles from Edinburgh,) she desired me to give a short discourse, to a few of her poor neighbours. I did so, at four in the afternoon, on the story of Dives and Lazarus. About seven I preached in our house at Edinburgh, and fully deliv ered my own soul. Saturday, June 1, I spent a little time with forty poor children, whom Lady Maxwell keeps at school. They are swiftly brought forward in reading and writing, and learn the principles of religion : but I observe in them all the ambitiosa paupertas : be they ever so poor, they must have a scrap of 'finery : many of them have not a shoe to their foot; but the girl in rags is not without her ruffles. Sunday 2, Mr. Collins intended to have preached on the castle- hill, at twelve o'clock; but the dull minister kept us in the kirk till past one. At six the house was well filled; and I did not shun to declare the whole counsel of God. I almost wonder at myself: I sel dom speak any where so roughly as in Scotland; and yet most of the people bear and hear, and are just what they were before. Monday 3, I went on to Dundee. The congregation was large and attentive, as usual : but I found no increase either of the society, or of the work of God. Tuesday 4, the house at Arbroath was well filled with serious and attentive hearers : only one or two pretty flut tered seemed inclined to laugh, if any would have encouraged them. Wednesday 5, we set out early, but did not reach Aberdeen till be tween five and six in the evening. The congregations were large both morning and evening, and many of them much alive to God. Friday 7, we received a pleas ing account of the work of God in the north. The flame begins to kindle even at poor, dull Keith; but much more at a little town near Frasersburg; and most of all at Newburgh, a small fishing town, fif teen miles from Aberdeen, where the society swiftly increases ; and •JUNE, 1782.] REV. JOHN WESLEy's JOURNAL. S;£ not only men and women, but a considerable number of children, are either rejoicing in God or panting after him. Saturday 8, I walked with a friend to Mr. Lesley's seat, less than a mile from the City. It is one of the pleasantest places of the kind I ever saw, either in Britain or Ireland. He has laid his gardens out on the side of a hill, which gives a fine prospect both of sea and land ; and the variety is beyond what could be expeeted within so small a compass. But still Valeat possessor oportet Si comparatis bene rebus cogitat uti. Unless a man has peace within, he can enjoy none of the things that are round about him. Sunday 9, We had a lovely congregation in the morning, many of whom were athirst for full salvation. In the evening God sent forth his voice, yea, and that a mighty voice; I think few of the congre gation were unmoved ; and we never had a more solemn parting. Monday 10, We went to Arbroath. Tuesday 11, to Dundee, and Wednesday 12, to Edinburgh. We had such congregations both that evening and the next, as had not been on a week day for many years: some fruit of our labours here we have had already. Perhaps this is a token that we shall have more. Friday 14, We travelled through a pleasant country to Kelso, where we were cordially received by Dr. Douglas. I spoke strong words in the evening, concerning a judgment to come ; and some seemed to awake out of sleep. But how shall they keep awake, un less they that fear the Lord, speak often together ? Saturday 15, As I was coming down stairs, the carpet slipped from under my feet, which, I know not how, turned me round, and pitch ed me back, with my head foremost, for six or seven stairs. It was impossible to recover myself, till I came to the bottom. My head re bounded once or twice," from the edge of the stone stairs; but it felt to me exactly as if I had fallen on a cushion or a pillow. Dr. Doug las ran out, sufficiently affrighted ; but he needed not, for I rose as well as ever, having received no damage, but the loss of a little skin from one or two of my fingers. Doth not God give his angels charge over us, to keep us in all our ways? In the evening, and on Sunday 16, I preached at Alnwick. Mon day 17, I preached at Rothbury in the Forest, formerly a nest of banditti, now as quiet a place as any in the county. About one I preached at Saugh-house, a lone house, twelve miles from Rothbury. Though it was sultry hot, the people flocked from all sides ; and it was a season of refreshment to many. In the evening I went to Hexham, and preached near the Old Priory, to an immense multi tude. Very many were present again in the morning, and seemed to drink in every word that was spoken. Tuesday 18, After preaching about one at Prudhoe, I went to New castle. Wednesday 19, and the following days, I examined the so ciety. I found them increased in grace, though not in number. I think four in five, at least, were alive to God. To quicken theha vol. 4, — M 96 KEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JULY, 1782. more, I divided all the classes anew, according to their places of abode. Another thing I observed, the congregations were larger morning and evening, than any I have seen these twenty years. Sunday 23, I preached about eight at Gateshead-Fell ; about noon at Burnop-fields, and at the Garth-heads in the evening. My strength was as my day. I was no more iiredat night, than when I rose in the morning. Monday 24, I came to Darlington just in time, for a great stum bling-block had lately occurred : but my coming gave the people a newer thing to talk of; so I trust the new thing will soon be for gotten. Wednesday 26, I preached at Thirsk : Thursday 27, at York. Fri day 28, 1 entered into my eightieth year; but, blessed be God, my time is not labour and sorrow : I find no more pain or bodily infir mities than at five-and-twenty. This I still impute, 1, To the power of God, fitting me for what he calls me to : 2, To my still travelling four or five thousand miles a-year : 3, To my sleeping, night or day, whenever I want it: 4, To my rising at a set hour : and, 5, To my constant preaching, particularly in the morning. Saturday 29, 1 went on to Leeds, and, after prdaching, met the select society, consisting of about sixty members, most of whom can testify, that Me blood of Jesus cleanseth from all sin. Monday, July 1, Coming to Sheffield just at the time of the Quar terly Meeting, I preached on Acts ix. 31, Then had the Churches peace, and were edified, and. walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied. This is emi nently fulfilled in all these parts ; at Sheffield in particular. Tuesday 2, I found a serious, as well as a numerous congregation at Nottingham. Thursday 4, 1 preached at Derby. I trust the work of God will now prosper here also : all the jars of our brethren are now at an end, and they strive together for the hope of the Gospel. Saturday 6, 1 pame to Birmingham, and preached once more in the old, dreary preaching-house. Sunday 7, I opened the new house at eight, and it contained the people well: but not in the evening: ma ny were then constrained to go away. In the middle of the sermon, a huge noise was heard, caused by the breaking of a bench, on which some people stood. None of them were hurt: yet it occasioned a general panic at first: but, in a few minutes, all was quiet. Wednesday 11, I read prayers and preached in the church at Dar- laston, and in the evening returned to Birmingham. Friday 12, I walked through Mr. Bolton's curious works. He has carried every thing which he takes in hand to a high degree of perfection, and em ploys in the house, about five hundred men, women, and children. His gardens, running along the side of a hill, are delightful indeed, having a large piece of water at the bottom, in which are two well- wooded islands: If faith and love dwell here, then there may be hap piness too: otherwise all these beautiful things are as unsatisfactory as straws and feathers. Saturday 13, 1 spent an hour in Hagley Park. I suppose, inferior to few, if any, in England. But we were straiten ed for time. To take a proper view of it would require five or six AUG. 1782.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 97 hours. Afterwards I went to the Leasows, a farm so called, four or five miles from Hagley. I never was so surprised. I have seen noth ing in all England to be compared with it. It is beautiful and ele gant all over. There is nothing grand, nothing costly ; no temples, so called ; no statues, (except two or three, which had better have been spared :) but such walks, such shades, such hills and dales, such lawns, such artle^ cascades, such waving woods, with waters inter mixed, as exceed all imagination. On the upper siiie from the open ings of a shady walk, is a most beautiful and extensive prospect : and all this is comprised in the compass of three miles. I doubt if it be exceeded by any thing in Europe. The father of Mr. Shenston was a gentleman farmer, who bred him at the University, and left him a small estate. This he wholly laid out, in improving the Leasows, living in hopes of great prefer ment, grounded on the promises of many rich and great friends : but nothing was performed, till he died at forty-eight; probably of a broken heart. Sunday 14, I heard a sermon in the old church at Birmingham, which the preacher uttered, with great vehemence, against these " hair-brained, itinerant enthusiasts :" but he totally missed his mark, having not the least conception of the persons whpm he undertook to describe. Monday 15, Leaving Birmingham early in the morning, 1 preach ed at nine in a large school-room at Coventry. About noon 1 preach ed to a multitude of people, in the brick-yard at Bedworth. A few of them seemed to be much affected. In the evening I preached at Hinckley, one of the civilest towns I have seen. Wednesday 17, 1 went on to Liccester. Thursday 18, to North ampton, and Friday 19, to Hinxworth, in Hertfordshire. Adjoining to Miss Harvey's house is a pleasant garden : and she has made a shady walk round the neighbouring meadows. How gladly could I repose awhile here ! But repose is not for me in this world. In the evening many of the villagers flocked together, so that her great hal was well filled : 1 would fain hope, some of them received the seed in good ground, and will bring forth fruit with patience. Saturday 20, We reached London. All the following week the congregations were uncommonly large. Wednesday 24, my brother and I paid our last visit to Lewisham, and spent a few pensive hours with the relict of our good friend, Mr. Blackwell. We took one more walk round the garden and meadow, which he took so much pains to improve. Upwards of forty years, this has been my place of retirement, when I could spare two or three days from London. In that time, first Mrs. Sparrow went to rest ; then Mrs. Dewall ; then gqod Mrs. Blackwell; now Mr. Blackwell himself: who can tell, how soon we may follow them ? Monday 29, I preached at West-street, on the Ministry of Angels: and many were greatly refreshed, in considering the office of those spirits that continually attend on the heirs of salvation. Friday, August 2, We observed as a day of fasting and prayer, for a blessing on the ensuing Conference: and, I believe, God clothed <*S REV. J9HN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [SEPT. 1 "S3. his word with power in an uncommon manner throughout the week: so that, were it only on this account, the preachers who came from all parts found their labour was not in vain. Tuesday 13, Being obliged to leave London a little sooner than I intended, I concluded the Conference to-day, and desired all our brethren to observe it as a day of solemn thanksgiving. At three in the afternoon I took coach. About one on Wednesday morning, we were informed, that three highwaymen were on the road before us, and had robbed all the coaches that had passed, some of them within an hour or two. I felt no uneasiness on the account, knowing that God would take care of us. And he did so: for before we came to the spot, all the highwaymen were taken. So we went on unmolest ed, and early in the afternoon came safe to Bristol. Thursday 15, I set out for the West: preached at Taunton in the evening ; Friday noon at Collumpton ; and in the evening at Exeter. Here poor Hugh Saunderson has pitched his standard, and declared open war: part of the society have joined him, the rest go on their way quietly, to make their calling and election sure. Sunday 18, I was much pleased with the decent behaviour of the whole congregation at the cathedral : as also with the solemn music at the post-communion, one of the finest compositions I ever heard. The bishop inviting me to dinner, I could not but observe, 1, The lovely situation of the palace, covered with trees, and as rural and retired as if it were quite in the country : 2, The plainness of the furniture, not costly or showy, but just fit for a christian bishop : 3, The dinner sufficient, but not redundant ; plain and good, but not delicate : 4, The propriety of the company, five clergymen and four of the aldermen; and, 5, The genuine, unaffected courtesy of the bishop, who, I hope, will be a blessing to his whole diocese. We set out early in the morning, Monday 19, and in the afternoon came to Plymouth. I preached in the evening, and at five and twelve on Tuesday, purposing to preach in the square at the Dock in the evening : but the rain prevented : however, I did so on Wednesday evening. A little before I concluded, the commanding-officer came into the square with his regiment: but he immediately stopped the drums, and drew up all his men in order, on the high-side of the square. They were all still as night; nor did any of them stir, till I had pronounced the blessing. Thursday 22, I preached at St Austlc; Friday 23, at Truro, and in the street at Helston ; Saturday 24, I preached in Marazion, at eleven ; in the evening at Penzance. Sunday 25, We prayed that God would stay the bottles of heaven; and he heard our prayer. I preached at Mousehole about nine, to a large congregation ; to a larger at Beryam, about two : but that at St. Just in the evening exceeded both of them put together. After vi siting the other societies, I came to Redruth, on Saturday 31. I preached there in the evening, and at noon, on Sunday, September 1 : afterwards I expounded the Parable of the Sower, at Gwenap, to how many thousands, I know not: but all (I was informed) could hear distinctly. This is the Lord's doing. SEPT. 1782.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 99 Monday 2, I went on to Port-Isaac. Tuesday 3, 1 preached in the street at Camelford. Being informed here, that my old friend Mr. Thompson, rector of St. Ginny's, was near death, and had expressed a particular desire to see me, I judged no time was to be lost ; so, bor rowing the best horse I could find, I set out and rode as fast as I could. On the way, I met with a white-headed old man, who caught me by the hand and said, " Sir, do you not know me ?" I answered, " No." He said, " My father, my father ! I am poor John Trembath." I desired him to speak to me in the evening, at Launceston ; which he did. He was, for some time, reduced to extreme poverty, so as to hedge and ditch for bread : but in his distress he cried to God, who sent him an answer of peace. He, likewise, enabled him to cure a gentleman that was desperately ill ; and afterward several others ; so that he grew into reputation, and gained a competent livelihood. " And now," said he, " I want for nothing: I am happier than ever I was in my life." I found Mr. Thompson just alive, but quite sensible. It seemed to me, as if none in the house but himself was very glad to see me. He had many doubts concerning his final state, and rather feared than desired to die ; so that my whole business was to comfort him, and to increase and confirm his confidence in God. He desired me to ad minister the Lord's-Supper, which I willingly did ; and I left him much happier than I found him, calmly waiting till his change should come. Newington, January 19, 1786. AN EXTRACT JOURNAL, No. XX. FROM SEPTEMBER 4, 1782, TO JUNE 28, 1786. W EDNESDAY, September 4, I preached in the market-house at Tiverton; Thursday 5, at Halberton, Taunton, and South-Brent. Friday 6, about, ten I preached at Shipham, a little town on the side of Mendif, almost wholly inhabited by miners, who dig up lapis ca- laminaris. I was surprised to see such a congregation, at so short a warning ; and their deep and serious attention seemed to be a presage, that some of them will profit by what they hear. In the afternoon we went on to Bristol. Sunday 8, My brother read prayers, and I preached to a very un common congregation : but a far more numerous one met near King's- Square in the evening, on whom I strongly enforced, ¥e canndt serve God and Mammon. Permit me to observe here, how you may distinguish a genuine small Field's Bible from a spurious one. The genuine read here, Ye can serve God and Mammon. In the spu rious the not is supplied. Monday 9, About noon I preached at Paulton, where the flame is abated, but not quenched. The same is the case at Shepton-Mallet, where I preached in the evening. Tuesday 10, I went on to the simple-hearted colliers at Colesford, abundance of whom met at six in the evening, in a green meadow, which was delightfully gilded by the rays of the setting sun. Wednesday 11,1 preached to a large and serious congregation, at the end of the preaching-house at Frome. After preaching at Road, Pensford, Trowbridge, and Freshford, on Friday 13, I preached at Bath. Sunday 15, 1 had a far greater number of communicants than usual. Both at this time, and in the afternoon and in the evening service, we had no common blessing. On Monday and Tuesday I preached at Chew-Magna, at Sutton, Stoke, and Clutton : in my way thither, I saw a famous monument of antiquity, at Stanton-Drew, supposed to have remained there, be; OCT. 1782.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 101 tween two and three thousand years. It was undoubtedly a Druid's temple, consisting of a smaller and larger circle of huge stones set up an end, one would think by some power more than human. Indeed such stones have been used for divine service, nearly, if not quite, from the time of the flood. On the following days I preached at many other little places. Sunday 22, After the service at Bristol, I hastened to Kingswood, and preached a funeral sermon, on Jenny Hall, a lovely young wo man, who died in full triumph, and desired a sermon might be preach ed, on Rev. vii. 13, and following verses. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I visited the classes, and was concerned to find, that for these two last years, the society has been continually decreasing. Thursday 26, and the following days, I visited the rest of the country societies. For a day or two I was not well, but I went on with my work till Sunday, when I preached morning and evening at the new room, and in the afternoon in Tem ple church. Tuesday, October 1, I read, among the letters, in the evening, the striking account of Robert Roe's death, a burning and a shining light while alive, but early numbered with the dead. Saturday 5, 1 visit ed several that are yet in the body, but longing to depart and be with Christ. But many have this year stepped before them. For forty years I do not know, that so many have, in the space of one year, been removed to Abraham's bosom. Sunday 6, I preached in Temple church, between our own morn ing and evening service. And I now found how to speak here, so as to be heard by every one : direct your voice to the middle of the pillar fronting the pulpit. Monday 7, I left Bristol with much satisfaction, firmly believing that God will revive his work there. 1 preached at the Devizes about eleven, and in the evening at Sarum : Tuesday 8, at Winchester, and at Portsmouth-Common. Wednesday 9, we took a wherry for the Isle of Wight : there was sea enough, which now and then wash ed over our boat : however, in about an hour we landed safe, and walked on to Newport. This place seems now ripe for the gospel; opposition is at an end. Only let our preachers be men of faith and love, and they will see the fruit of their labours. Friday 11, I returned to Portsmouth, took chaise the next morn ing, and in the afternoon came to London. Monday 14, I went to Wallingford. The house was filled in the evening with much affect ed hearers. Shall our labour here be in vain ? Lord, thou knowest! Tuesday 15, About noon I preached at Oxford. I have seen no such prospect here for many years. The congregation was large and still as night, although many gentlemen, were among them. The next evening the house would not contain the congregation ; yet, all Were quiet, even those that could not come in. And I believe God not only opened their understandings, but began a good work in some of their hearts. Wednesday 16, I preached at Witney, one of the liveliest places in the circuit, where I always find my own soul refreshed. 102 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [NOV. 1782. I saw such a garden at Oxford, as I verily believe, all England cannot parallel : it is triangular, and I conjecture, contains about an acre of ground : it is filled with fruit trees of various sorts, and all excellent in their kinds : but it is odd beyond all description, and superlatively whimsical. The owner has crowded together pictures, statues, urns, and antiques of various kinds; for all which why should not Mr. Badcock's name, as well as Mr. Robert's, be consigned to posterity ? Thursday 17, I preached at Tame : this evening and the next at High Wycombe ; and on Saturday returned to London. Monday 21, I preached at Tunbridge- Wells: Tuesday 22, at Sev enoaks; Wednesday 23, I visited the house of mourning at Shore- ham, and read the strange account at first hand. Not long after his former wife died, Mr. H. paid his addresses to Miss B. He had been intimately acquainted with her for some years. By immense assi duity, and innumerable professions of the tenderest affection, he by slow degrees gained her's. The time of marriage was fixed : the ring was bought. He came on Thursday, and again on Saturday. He also came on the Wednesday following, and told her, with great composure, that he had changed his mind, and therefore could not think of marrying her. He talked a full hour in the same strain, and then walked away ! Her brother sent a full account of this to Miss Perronet, who read it with perfect calmness, comforted her niece, and strongly exhorted her to continue steadfast in the faith. But the grief, which did not outwardly appear, preyed the more upon Miss Perronet's spirits, till three or four days after, she felt a pain in her breast, lay down, and in four minutes died. One of the ventricles of her heart burst: so she literally died of a broken heart. When old Mr. Perronet heard, that his favourite child, the stay of his old age, was dead, he broke out into praise and thanksgiving to God, who-had " taken another of his children out of this evil world !" But Mr. H. meantime has done nothing amiss: so both himself and his friends say ! Friday 25, I returned to London, and was glad to find Mr. Ed ward Smyth and his family, just come from Dublin. Sunday 27, at ten 1 took coach, reached Norwich on Monday noon, and preached at six in the evening. 1 stayed there on Tuesday, and Wednesday 30, went on to Yarmouth, where were the largest congregations I had seen for many years. Thursday 31, I went on to Lowestoffe, which is at present far the most comfortable place in the whole circuit. Friday, November 1, Mr. Smyth and his wife gave us a strange account. A little before they were married, her brother Samuel was about eight years old. One evening, as she was with Mr. Smyth, in one of the rows at Yarmouth, both of them saw Samuel standing, five or six yards off. She cried out, " Sammy, come hither ; I Want you," but instantly he was gone : just then he fell into the river. A large water-dog, which was on the bridge, directly leaped off, swam about, and sought him, but could not find him. He then came out, DEC. 1782.J REV. JOHN WESLEY!S JOURNAL. 103 and ran to his mother's house howling : nor would he leave her till he was put out by force. Saturday 2, About nine I preached at Cove, a village nine or ten miles' from Lowestoffe; the poor people presently filled the house, and seemed to devour every word. About one I preached at Lod- don, and at Norwich in the evening. Sunday 3, I administered the Lord's-Supper to about an hundred and forty communicants. I preached at half past two, and again in the evening : after which I requested them to go away in silence, without any one speaking to another. They took my advice. They went away in profound silence, so that no sound was heard but that of their feet Monday 4, At five in the morning the congregation was exceed ingly large : that in the evening seemed so deeply affected, that I hope Norwich will again lift up its head. At nine we took coach, and before eleven, on Tuesday 4, reached Colchester. In order to strengthen this poor feeble society, I stayed with them till Friday, preaching morning and evening, and visiting in the day as many as I could, sick or well. I divided the classes anew, which had been strangely and irregularly jumbled together ; appointed stewards, regu lated temporal as well as spiritual things, and left them in a better way than they had been in for several years. Monday 17, and the following days, I visited the societies in and about London. Sunday 24, 1 preached at St. Clement's in the Strand, the largest church I ever preached in at London, except, perhaps, St. Sepul chre's, to an immense congregation. I fully discharged my own soul, and afterwards took coach for Northamptonshire. On Monday 25, 1 preached at Towcester; on Tuesday at Whit- tlebury, so called; but the true name of the town is Whittle ; on Wed nesday at Northampton, and on Thursday returned to London. Fri day 29, I preached at Highgate, in the palace built in the last centu ry by that wretched Duke of Lauderdale, now one of the most ele gant boarding-houses in England. Monday, December 3, I preached at St. Neot's, in Huntingdon shire : Tuesday 4, at Bugden about one, and in the evening at Hunt ingdon. Two clergymen were there, with one of whom I had much serious conversation. Wednesday 4, 1 preached, with great enlarge ment of spirit, to my old congregation at Bedford. Thursday 5, with some difficulty I crossed the country to Hinxworth, and preach ed to fifty or sixty plain people, who seemed very willing to learn. In the afternoon, it being impossible to drive a chaise straight round to Luton, I was obliged to go many miles about, and so did not reach it till after six o'clock. So I went directly to the preaching-house, and began without delay, enforcing those solemn words, To-day, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. Friday 6, I could procure no other conveyance to St. Alban's, but in an open chaise. And hence (the frost being very sharp) I contracted a severe cold. Monday 9, 1 had a better conveyance into Kent. In the evening I preached at Canterbury; on Tuesday at Dover: the next day at Canterbury again. On Thursday 12, and on vol, 4,^N 104 rev. john wesley's journal. [fee. 1783. Friday morning, I preached at Chatham, and in the afternoon return ed to London. Saturday 14, 1 found the cold, which I had contracted in the way to St. Alban's, exceedingly increased, having a deep and violent cough, which continued at intervals, till spring. Monday 16, I retired to Hoxton for a few days. Thursday 19, about eleven at night, a gun was fired at our chamber window, and at the same time, a large stone thrown through it, (probably in sport, by some that had been drinking.) I presently went to sleep again. Saturday 21, I visited Mr. Maxfield, struck with a violent stroke of a palsy. He was senseless and seemed near death : but we be sought God for him, and his spirit revived, I cannot but think, in answer to prayer. Sunday 29,1 buried the remains of Thomas For- fit, a rich, and yet a generous man. He was unwearied in well-do ing; and, in .a good old age, without any pain or struggle, fell asleep. Tuesday 31, we concluded the year with a solemn watch-night Wednesday, January 1, 1783, May I begin to live to-day ! Sunday 5, we met to renew our covenant with God. We never meet on this occasion without a blessing: but I do not know that we had ever so large a congregation before. Friday 10, I paid one more visit to Mr. Perronet, now in his ninetieth year. I do not know so venerable a man. His understanding is little, if at all, impaired, and his heart seems to be all love. A little longer I hope he will remain here, to be a blessing to all that see and hear him. Sunday 19, I preached at St. Thomas's church in the afternoon, and at St. Swithin's in the evening. The tide is now turned, so that I have more invitations to preach in churches than I can accept of. Saturday, February 1, I drank tea at Mr. A 's, in the Maze- pond, Southwark. But both Mr. A and his wife informed me they were determined to quit the house as soon as possible, by rea son of strange noises, which they heard day and night, but in the night chiefly, as if all the tables and chairs had been thrown up and down, in the rooms above and under them. Sunday 2, Mr. Maxfield continuing ill, I preached this afternoon at his chapel. Prejudice seems now dying away. God grant it may never revive. Tuesday 11,1 buried the remains of Sarah Clay, many years a mother in Israel ; the last of those holy women, who, being filled with love, forty years ago devoted themselves wholly to God, to spend and be spent in his service. Her death was like her life, calm and easy. She was dressing herself, when she dropped down and fell asleep. Monday 17, I had an opportunity of attending the lecture of that excellent man, Dr. Conyers. He was quite an original : his matter was very good, his manner very bad. But it is enough, that God owned him, both in the conviction and conversion of sinners Thursday 20 I went to Dorking, and in the afternoon 'took a walk through the lovely gardens of Lord Grimstone. His father-in- law who laid them out, is some time since numbered with the dead. And his son-in-law, living elsewhere, has not so much as the beholding them 101th his eyes ! MARCH, 1783.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 105 Friday 21, At our yearly mee"ting for that purpose, we examined our early accounts, and found the money received, (just answering the expense) was upwards of three thousand pounds a year. But that is nothing to me. What I receive of it yearly, is neither more nor less than thirty pounds. To-day Charles Greenwood went to rest. He had been a melan choly man all his days, full of doubts and fears, and continually wri ting bitter things against himself. When he, was first taken ill, he said, He should die, and was miserable through fear of death : but, two days before he died, the clouds dispersed, and he was unspeaka bly happy, telling his friends, " God has revealed to me things, which it is impossible for man to utter." Just when he died, such glory filled the room, that it seemed to be a little heaven : none could grieve or shed a tear, but all present appeared to be partakers of his joy- Monday 24, I buried the remains of Captain Cheesement, one, who, some years since, from a plentiful fortune, was by a train of losses utterly ruined. But two or three friends enabling him to be gin trade again, the tide turned; he prospered greatly, and riches flowed in on every side. A few years ago he married one equally agreeable in her person and temper: so what had he to do but to en joy himself? Accordingly he left off business, took a large, hand some house, and furnished it in a most elegant manner. A little while after, shewing his rooms to a friend, he said, " All this will give small comfort in a dying hour." A few days after he was ta ken with a fever : I saw him twice ; he was sensible, but could not speak. In spite of all means he grew worse and worse, and in about twelve days died. So within a few days we lost two of our richest, and two of our holiest members ; Sarah Clay, and good old George Huff- let, who had been for many years a burning and a shining light. He lay fourteen weeks praising God continually, and had then a trium phant entrance into his kingdom. Sunday, March 2, In the evening I took coach, and the next even ing preached at Bath. Thursday 6, I went on to Bristol, and found a family of love, so united as it had not been for some years. The next week I met the classes, and on Friday had a watch-night at Kingswood : but I was far from being well, the cold which I caught in coming from Luton, rather increasing than decreasing. Saturday 15, I had a deep, tearing cough, and was exceedingly heavy and weak : however, I made shift to preach at Weaver's-Hall, and to meet the penitents. Sunday 16, I found myself considera bly worse : however I preached in the morning, but had such a fe ver in the afternoon, that I was obliged to take my bed. I now knew not what to do, having fixed the next morning for beginning my journey into Ireland, and sent notice to Stroud, Glou cester, and various other places, oF the days wherein ^purposed to visit them ; but Mr. Collins kindly undertook to supply my place at Stroud, and the other places, as far as Worcester. Lying down in bed, I took part (being able|to swallow no more) of a draught which was prepared for me. It gave me four or five 106 rev. john wesley's journal. [april, 1783, and twenty stools, and a moderate vomit, after which I fell fast asleep. Monday 17, Mr. Collins set out. About six in the morn ing, finding myself perfectly easy, I set out in the afternoon, and overtook him at Stroud: but it was as much as I could do, for I was in a high fever, though without any pain. After giving a short ex hortation to the society, I was very glad to lie down. My fever was exactly of the same kind with that I had in the north of Ireland. On Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, I was just the same : the whole nervous system was violently agitated : hence arose the cramp, with little intermission, from the time I lay down in bed, till morning: also a furious, tearing cough, usually recurring before each fit of the cramp ; and yet I had no pain in my back, or head, or limbs, the cramp only excepted: but I had no strength at all, being scarcely able to move, and much less to think. In this state I lay till Friday morning, when a violent fit of the cramp carried the fever quite away. Perceiving this, I took chaise without delay, and reach ed Worcester in the afternoon. Here I overtook Mr. Collins again, who had supplied all my appointments, and with a remarkable bles sing to the people: but being much exhausted, I found rest was sweet Saturday 22, in the morning I gave a short exhortation, and then went to Birmingham. Sunday 23, Finding still some remains of the fever, with a load and tightness across my breast, and a continual tendency to the cramp, I procured a friend to electrify me thoroughly, both through the legs and the breast, several times in the day. God so blessed this, that I had no more fever or cramp, and no more load or tight- - ness across my breast. In the evening I ventured to preach three quarters of an hour, and found no ill effect at all ! Tuesday 25, In the afternoon I reached Hilton-park, about six miles north of Wolverhampton. Here I found my old acquaintance, Miss Freeman, (whom I had known almost from a child,) with Sir Philip Gibbes's lady, and his two amiable daughters, in a lovely recess. With these I spent this evening and the next day, both profitably and agreeably. Thursday 27, 1 crossed over the country to Hinckley, and preach ed in the evening, in the neat, elegant preaching-house: so I did, morning and evening, on the three following days, to a serious, well- behaved people. Here I met with Dr. Home's Commentary on the Psalms ; I suppose, the best that ever was written. Yet I could not comprehend his aggrandizing the Psalms, it seems, even above the New Testament: and some of them he hardly makes any thing of • the eighty-seventh in particular. Tuesday, April 1, &c. I went through several of the societies, till I reached Holyhead, on Friday 11. We went on board without delay, and on Sunday morning, the 13th, landed at Dunlary : whence, not being able to procure a carriage, I walked on to Dublin. Here I spent two or three weeks with much satisfaction, in my usual employments. Monday 21, 1 spent an hour with Mr. Shelton, I think full as extraordinary a man as Mr. Law : of full as rapid a genius, so that I had little to do but to hear : his words flowing as a river. MAY, 1783.] " REV. JOHN wesley's journal. 107 Tuesday 29, Our little Conference began and continued till Friday, May 2. All was peace and love, and I trust the same spirit will spread through the nation. Saturday 3, I made a little excursion to a nobleman's seat, a few miles from Dublin. It may, doubtless, vie in elegance, if not in cost liness, with any seat in Great-Britain : but the miserable master of the whole has little satisfaction therein. God hath said, " Write this man childless." For whom then does he heap up these things ? He is himself growing old. "And must he leave this paradise ? Then leave These happy shades, and mansions fit for gods ?" Sunday 4, There was an ordination at St. Patrick's. I admired the solemnity wherewith the archbishop went through the service : but the vacant faces of the ordained shewed how little they were af fected thereby. In the evening multitudes met to renew their cove nant with God : but here was no vacant face to be seen ; for God was in the midst, and manifested himself to many ; particularly to a daugh ter of good William Penington. Monday 5, We prepared for going on board the packet: but as it delayed sailing, on Tuesday 6, I waited on Lady Arabella Denny, at the Black Rock, four miles from Dublin. It is one of the pleasantest spots I ever saw. The garden i.3 every thing in miniature. On one side is a grove with serpentine walks ; on the other a little meadow and a green-house, with a study, (which she calls her chapel) hang ing over the sea. Between these is a broad walk, leading down al most to the edge of the water ; along which run two narrow walks, commanding the quay, one above the other: but it cannot be long be fore this excellent lady will remove to a nobler paradise. The unusually large congregation in the evening, was plentifully watered with the dew of heaven. I found a particular concern for the children, many of whom willingly attended. Wednesday 7, The packet still delaying, I exhorted a large con gregation in the evening, to take care how they built their house upon the sand: and then cheerfully commended them to the grace of God. Thursday 8, We rose at one, went down to the quay at two, and about four went on board the Hillsborough packet. About five the wind turned fair; and between five and six in the evening brought us to Holyhead. About seven we took coach, and the next evening met our friends at Chester. Monday 12, about eight I preached at Pres- ton-on-the-Hill ; about twelve in Warrington, and in the evening at Liverpool. Here the scandal of the cross seems to be ceased, and we are grown honourable men. Thursday 15, I preached about noon at Wigan ; and in the even ing at Bolton, to a people much alive to God. Saturday 17, I went on to Manchester. Sunday 18, Mr. Bailey came very opportunely, to assist me in the morning service. Such a sight I believe was never seen at Manchester before. It was supposed there were thirteen or fourteen hundred communicants, among whom there was such a 108 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JUNE, 1783. spirit as I have seldom found, and their whole behaviour was such as adorned the gospel. Tuesday 20, I met the select society, consisting of between forty and fifty members. Several of these were lately made partakers of the great salvation, as several were above twenty years ago. I be lieve there is no place but London, where we have so many souls so deeply devoted to God. And his hand is not shortened yet, but his work rapidly increases on every side. About noon I preached at Stockport, and in the afternoon in the new church at Macclesfield. This society seems as lively as even that at Manchester, and increases nearly as fast. Not a week passes wherein some are not justified, and seme renewed in love. Wednes day 20, I met a few of these, and found them indeed, "All praise, all meekness, and all love." In the evening I exhorted them all, to expect pardon or holiness, to day, not to-morrow. 0 let their love never grow cold ! Friday 23, I set out for Derby; but the smith had so effectually lamed one of my horses, that many told me, he would never be able to travel more. I thought, " Even this may be made matter of prayer," and set out cheerfully. The horse, instead of growing worse and worse, went better and better: and in the afternoon, after I had preached at Leek by the way, brought me safe to Derby. Saturday 24, Being desired to marry two of our friends at Buxton, two and thirty miles from Derby, I took chaise at three, and came thither about eight. I found notice had been given of my preaching in the church : and the minister desired me to read prayers. By this means I could not leave Buxton till eleven, nor reach Notting ham till after seven, whereas I was to have preached at six : but Mr. Brackenbury came to town just in time to supply my place. Sun day 25, I had an easy day's work, as Mr. Bailey assisted me, by reading prayers, and delivering the wine at the Lord's table. Tuesday 27, I preached at Loughborough in the morning, and at Mountsorrel at one. While I was preaching, the rain , which was so much wanted, began, and continued for eight-and-forty hours. In the even ing I preached at Leicester, where I always feel much liberty, and yet see but little fruit After preaching at Northampton, Bedford, and Hinxworth, on Saturday 31, I returned to London. Sunday, June 1, I was refreshed by the very sight of the congre gation at the new chapel. Monday 2, and the following days, I em ployed in settling my business, and preparing for my little excursion. Wednesday 11, I took coach with Mr. Brackenbury, Broadbent, and Whitefield ; and in the evening we reached Harwich. I went im mediately to Dr. Jones, who received me in the most affectionate manner : about nine in the morning we sailed ; and at nine on Friday 13, landed at Helvoetsluys. Here we hired a coach for Briel, but were forced to hire a wagon also, to carry a box, which one of us could have carried on his shoulders. At Briel we took a boat to Rotterdam. We had not been long there, when Mr. Bennet, a book seller, who had invited me to his house, called for me. But as Mr. Loyal, the minister of the Scotch congregation, had invited me, he JUNE, 1783.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 109 gave up his claim, and went with us to Mr. Loyal's. I found a friendly, sensible, hospitable, and I am persuaded, a pious man. We took a walk together round the town, all as clean as a gentleman's parlour. Many of the houses are as high as those in the main street at Edinburgh ; and the canals running through the chief streets make them convenient as well as pleasant : bringing the merchants' goods up to their doors. Stately trees grow on their banks ; and the whole town is encompassed with a double row of elms, so that one may walk all round it in the shade. Saturday 14, I had much conversation with the two English min isters, sensible, well-bred, serious men. These, as well as Mr. Loyal, were very willing I should preach in their churches ; but they thought it would be best for me to preach in the episcopal church. By our conversing freely together, many prejudices were removed, and all our hearts seemed to be united together. In the evening we again took a walk round the town, and I ob served, 1, Many of the houses are higher than most in Edinburgh : it is true, they have not so many stories, but each story is far loftier. 2, The streets, the outside and inside of their houses in every part, doors, windows, well-stair-cases, furniture, even floors are kept so nicely clean, that you cannot find a speck of dirt. 3, There is such a grandeur and elegance in the fronts of the large houses, as I never saw elsewhere ; and such a profusion of marble within, particularly in their lower floors and stair-cases, as I wonder other nations do not imitate. 4, The women and children (which I least of all expected) were in general the most beautiful I ever saw : they were surprising ly fair, and had an inexpressible air of innocence in their counte nances. 5, This was wonderfully set off by their dress, which was simplex munditis, plain and neat, in the highest degree. 6, It has lately been observed, that growing vegetables greatly resist putridity. So there is an use in their numerous rows of trees, which was not thought of at first. The elms balance the canals ; preventing the putre faction, which those otherwise might produce. One little circumstance I observed, which I suppose is peculiar to Holland. To most chamber-windows a looking-glass is placed on the outside of the sash, so as to shew the whole street, with alL the pas sengers: there is something very pleasing in these moving pictures. Are they found in no other country ? Sunday 15, The episcopal church is not quite so large as the chapel in West-street : it is very elegant both without and within. The service began at half past nine. Such a congregation had not often been there before. I preached on, God created man in his own image. The people " seemed, all but their attention, dead." In the afternoon the church was so filled, as (they informed me) it had not been for these fifty years. I preached on, God hath given us eternal life; and this lif&is in his Son. I believe God applied it to many hearts. Were it only for this hour, I am glad I came to Holland One thing which I peculiarly observed was this, and the same in all the churches in Holland: at coming in, no one looks on the right or the left hand, or bows or curtsies to any one.} but all go straight 110 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [ JUNE, 1783. forward to their seats, as if no other person was in the place. During the service, none turns his head on either side, or looks at any thing, but his book or the minister And in going out, none takes notice of any one, but all go straight forward till they are in the open air. After church an English gentleman invited me to his country-seat, not half a mile from the town. I scarcely ever saw so pretty a place. The garden before the house was in three partitions, each quite dif ferent from the others. The house lay between this and another gar den, (nothing like any of the others) from which you looked through a beautiful summer-house, washed by a small stream, into rich pas tures filled with cattle. We sat under an arbour of stately trees, be tween the front and the back gardens. Here were four such children, (I suppose seven, six, five, and three years old) as I never saw before in one family. Such inexpressible beauty and innocence shone to gether ! In the evening I attended the service of the great Dutch church, as large as most of our cathedrals. The organ (like those in all the Dutch churches) was elegantly painted and gilded. And the tunes that were sung, were very lively, and yet solemn. Monday 16, We set out in a track-skuit for the Hague: by the way we saw a curiosity. The gallows near the canal, surrounded with a knot of beautiful trees : so the dying man will have one plea sant prospect here, whatever befals him hereafter ! At eleven we came to Delft, a large handsome town ; where we spent an hour at a merchant's house ; who, as well as his wife, a very agreeable woman, seemed both to fear and to love God. Afterwards we saw the great church, I think, nearly, if not quite, as long as York-Minster. It is exceedingly light and elegant within, and every part is kept exquisitely clean. The tomb of William the First is much admired, particularly his statue, which has more life than one would think could be expressed in brass. When we came to the Hague, though we had heard much of it, we were not disappointed. It is indeed beautiful beyond expression. Many of the houses are exceedingly grand, and are finely intermix ed with water and wood ; yet not too close, but so as to be sufficiently ventilated by the air. Being invited to tea by Madam de Vassenaar, (one of the first quality in the Hague,) I waited upon her in the afternoon. She re ceived us with that easy openness and affability, which is almost peculiar to Christians, and persons of quality. Soon after came ten or twelve ladies more, who seemed to be of her own rank, (though dressed quite plainly,) and two most agreeable gentlemen : one of whom, I afterwards understood, was a Colonel in the Prince's Guards. After tea I expounded the three first verses of the thirteenth of the first epistle to the Corinthians : Captain M. interpreted, sentence by sentence. I then prayed, and Colonel V. after me. I believe this hour was well employed. Tuesday 17, As we walked over the place, we saw the Swiss Guards at their exercise. They are a fine body of men, taller, I suppose, than any English regiment. And they all wear large whis- JUNK, 1783.] „ REV^JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. Ill kers, which they take care to keep as black as their boots. After wards we saw the gardens at the old palace, beautifully laid out, with a large piece of water in the middle, and a canal at each end : the open walks in it are pleasant, but the shady, serpentine walks are far pleasanter. We dined at Mrs. L — 's, in such a family as I have seldom seen. Her mother, upwards of seventy, seemed to be continually rejoicing in God her Saviour. The daughter breathes the same spirit; and her grand-children, three little girls and a boy, seem to be all love. I have not seen four such children together in England. A gentle man coming in after dinner, I found a paiticular desire to pray for him. In a little while he melted into tears, as indeed did most of the company. Wednesday 18, in the afternoon Madam de VasSenaar in vited us to a meeting at a neighbouring lady's house. I expounded Gal. vi. 14, and Mr. M. interpreted as before. Thursday 19, We took boat at seven. Mrs. L., and one of her re lations, being unwilling to part so soon, bore us company to Leyden, a large and populous town, but not so pleasant as Rotterdam. In the afternoon we went on to Haerlem, where a plain, good man and his wife received us in a most affectionate manner. At six we took boat again : as it was filled from end to end, I was afraid we should not have a very pleasant journey. After Mr. Ferguson had told the peo ple who we were, we made a slight excuse and sung a hymn : they were all attention. We then talked a little, by means of our interpre ter, and desired that any of them who pleased would sing. Four persons did so, and sung well : after a while we sung again. So did one or two of them : and all our hearts were strangely knit together, so that when we came to Amsterdam, they dismissed us with abun dance of blessings. Friday 20, We breakfasted at Mr. Ferguson's, near the heart of the city. At eleven we drank coffee, (the custom in Holland) at Mr. J — 's, a merchant, whose dining-room is covered, both walls and ceiling, with the most beautiful paintings. He and his lady walked with us in the afternoon to the Stadt-house, perhaps the grandest building of the kind in Europe. The great hall is a noble room in>- deed, nearly as large as that of Christ-Church in Oxford. But I have neither time nor inclination to describe particularly this amazing structure. At five in the evening we drank tea at another merchant's, Mr. G — 's, where I had a long conversation with Mr. de H., one of the most learned as well as popular ministers in the city ; and (I believe what is far more important) he is truly alive to God. He spoke La tin well, and seemed to be one of a strong understanding, as well as of an excellent spirit. In returning to our inn, we called at a sta tioners, and though we spent but a few minutes, it was enough to convince us of his strong affection, even to strangers. What a change does the grace of God make in the heart ! Shyness and stiffness are now no more ! Saturday 21, We breakfasted with a very extraordinary woman, 1 ' vol. 4.— 0 112 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JUNE, 17S3. who lamented that she could not talk to us but by an interpreter : however, she made us understand, that she had a little child some years since, three or four years old, that was praying continually: that one morning, having just dressed her, she said, " Will you go kiss your sister !" She said, " Yes, mamma ; and I will kiss you too :" and threw her arms about her mother's neck; who said, "My dear, where will you go now?" She said, " I will go to. Jesus ;" and died. At eleven I spent an hour with a woman of large fortune, who ap peared to be as much devoted to God as she. We were immediately as well acquainted with each other, as if we had known each other for many years. But indeed an easy, good breeding, (such as I never expected to see here) runs through all the genteeler people of Am sterdam. And there is such a child-like simplicity in all that love God, as does honour to the religion they profess. About two we called upon Mr. V n, and immediately fell into close conversation. There seems to be in him a peculiar softness and sweetness of temper, and a peculiar liveliness in Mrs. V n. Our loving dispute, concerning deliverance from sin, was concluded with in an hour : and we parted if that could be, better friends than we met. Afterwards we walked to Mr. J — 's house in the Plantations, a large tract of ground laid out in shady walks. These lie within the city walls ; but there are other walks, equally pleasant, without the gates. Indeed nothing is wanting but the power of religion, to make Amsterdam a paradise. Sunday 22, I went to the New Church, so called still, though four or five hundred years old. It is larger, higher, and better illuminat ed, than most of our cathedrals. The screen that divides the church from the choir, is of polished brass, and shines like gold. I under stood the psalms that were sung, and the text well, and a little of the sermon ; which Mr. de H. delivered with great earnestness. At two I began the service at the English church, an elegant building, about the size of West-street chapel ; only it has no galleries, nor have any of the churches in Holland. I preached on Isaiah lv. 6, 7, and I am persuaded many received the truth in the love thereof. After service I spent another hour at Mr. V 's. Mrs. V again asked me abundance of questions concerning deliverance from sin, and seemed a good deal better satisfied with regard to the great and precious promises. Thence we went to Mr. B — , who had lately found peace with God. He was full of faith and love, and could hardly mention the goodness of God without tears. His wife appear ed to be exactly of the same spirit, so that our hearts were soon knit together. From thence we went to another family, where a large company were assembled : but all seemed open to receive instructions, and desirous to be altogether Christians. After dinner Mrs. J— took me in a coach to the Mere, and thence round the country to Zeburg. I never saw such a country before : I suppose there is no such summer country in Europe. From Amsterdam to Mere is all a train of the most delightful gardens. Turning upon the left you then open upon the Texel, which spreads into a sea. Zeburg itself is a little house built on the edge of it, which Commands both a land JUNE, 1783.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 113 and sea prospect. What is wanting to make the inhabitants happy, but the knowledge and love of God? Tuesday 24, We took a view of the new work-house, which stands on one side of the Plantations : it much resembles Shoreditch work house, only it is considerably larger. And the front of it is so richly ornamented that.it looks like a royal palace. About four hundred are now in the house, which is to receive four hundred more : just half as many as are in the poor-house at Dublin, which now contains six teen hundred. We saw many of the poor people, all at work, knit ting, spinning, pieking work, or weaving. And the women in one room were all sowing, either fine or plain work. Many of these had been women of the town, for this is a Bridewell and work-house in one. The head keeper was stalking to and fro, with a large silver- hilted sword by his side. The bed-chambers were exceedingly neat; the beds are better or worse, as are those that use them. We saw both the men in one long room, and the women in another, at dinner. In both rooms they sung a psalm and prayed, before and after dinner. I cannot but think the managers in Amsterdam wiser than those in Dublin : for, certainly a little of the form of religion is better than none at all ! Afterwards we spent an hour at Mrs. V 's, a very extraordi nary woman. Both from her past and present experience, I can have no doubt but she is perfected in love. She said, " I was born at Surinam, and came from thence, when I was about ten years old. But when I came hither, my guardian would not let me have my fortune, unless I would go back to Surinam. However I got ac quainted with some pious people, and made shift to live, till I was about sixteen : I then embarked for Surinam ; but a storm drove us to the coast of England, where the ship was stranded. I was in great distress, fearing I had done wrong in leaving the pious people : but just then God revealed himself to my soul. I was filled with joy unspeakable, and boldly assured the people, who despaired of life, that God would preserve them all : and so he did ; we got on shore at Devon, but we lost all that we had. "After a time I returned to Amsterdam, and lived four years in service : then I married. Seven years after, it pleased God to work a deeper work in my heart: since then I have given myself wholly to Him. I desire nothing else. Jesus is my all. 1 am always pleased with his will: so I was, even when my husband died. I had not one discontented thought, I was still happy in God." Wednesday 25, We took boat for Haerlem. The great church here is a noble structure, equalled by few cathedrals in England, either in length, breadth, or height : the organ is the largest I ever saw, and is said to be the finest in Europe. Hence we went to Mr. Van Ka 's, whose wife was convinced of sin, and justified by reading Mr. Whitefield's sermons. Here we were at home. Before dinner we took a walk in Haer lem wood. It adjoins to the town, and is cut out in many shady walks, with lovely vistas shooting out every way. The walk from the 114 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [ JUNE, 1783- Hague to Scheveling is pleasant; those near Amsterdam more so; but these exceed them all. We returned in the afternoon to Amsterdam, and in the evening took leave of as many of our friends as we could. How entirely were we mistaken in the Hollanders, supposing them to be of a cold, phlegmatic, unfriendly temper ! I have not met with a more warm ly affectionate people in all Europe ! No, not in Ireland! Thursday 26, Our friends having largely provided us with wine and fruits for our little journey, we took boat in a lovely morning for Utrecht, with Mr. Van 's sister, who in the way gave us a striking account. "In that house," said she, (pointing to it as we went by) "my hushand and I lived; and that church adjoining to it, was his church. Five years ago, we were sitting together, being in perfect health, when he dropped down, and in a quarter of an hour died : I lifted up my heart and said, ' Lord, thou art my husband now;' and found no will but his." This was a trial worthy of a Christian ; and she has ever since made her word good. We were scarcely got to our inn at Utrecht when Miss L came; I found her just such as I expected. She came on purpose from her father's country-house, where all the family were. I observe of all the pious people in Holland, that without any rule, but the word of God, they dress as plainly as Miss March did formerly, and Miss Johnson does now ! And considering the vast disadvantage they are under, hav ing no connexion with each other, and being under no such discip line at all as we are, I wonder at the grace of God that is in them. Friday 27, I walked over to Mr. L.'s country-house, about three miles from the city. It is a lovely place, surrounded with delight ful gardens, laid out with wonderful variety. Mr. L. is of an easy, genteel behaviour, speaks Latin correctly, and is no stranger to phi losophy. Mrs. L. is the picture of friendless and hospitality, and young Mr. L. seems to be cast in the same mould. We spent a few hours very agreeably. Then Mr. L. would send me back in his coach. Being sick of inns, (our bill at Amsterdam alone amounting to nearly a hundred florins,) I willingly accepted of an invitation to lodge with the son-in-law of James Oddie. Saturday 28, We went over to Zeist, the settlement of the Ger man brethren. It is a small village, finely situated, with woods on every side, and much resembles one of the large colleges in Oxford. Here I met with my old friend Bishop Antone, whom I had not seen for nearly fifty years. He did not ask me to eat or drink, for " it is not their custom!" And there is an inn: but they were all very covetous. And we were welcome to buy any tiling that we pleased at their shops ! I cannot see how it is possible for this com munity to avoid growing immensely rich. I have this day lived fourscore years ; and, by the mercy of God, my eyes are not waxed dim, and what little stength of body or mind I had thirty years since, just the same I have now. God grant I may never live to be useless. Bather may I JULY, 1783.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 115 " My body with my charge lay down, And cease at once to work and live." Sunday 29, At ten I began the service in the English church in Utrecht. I believe, all the English in the city were present, and forty or fifty Hollanders. I preached on the 13th of the first of Corinthians, I think, as searchingly as ever in my life. Afterwards a merchant invited me to dinner : for six years he had been at death's door by an asthma, and was extremely, ill last night ; but this morn ing, without any visible cause, he was well, and walked across the city to the church. He seemed to be deeply acquainted with reli gion, and made me promise, if I came to Utrecht again, to make his house my home. In the evening, a large company of us met at Miss L.'s, where I was desired to repeat the substance of my morning sermon. I did so, Mr. Toydemea, (the Professor of Law in the University,) inter preting it sentence by sentence. They then sung a Dutch hymn, and we an English one. Afterwards, Mr. Regulet, a venerable old man, spent some time in prayer for the establishment of peace and love between the two nations. Utrecht has much the look of an English town. The streets are broad, and have many noble houses. In quietness and stillness it much resembles Oxford. The country all round is like a garden : and the people I conversed with, are not only civil and hospitable, but friendly and affectionate, even as those at Amsterdam. Monday 30, We hired a coach for Rotterdam, at half a crown per head. We dined at Gouda, at Mr. Van Flooten's, minister of the town, who received us with all possible kindness. Before dinner we went into the church, famous for its painted windows, but we had not time to survey a tenth part of them : we could only observe, in general, that the colours were exceedingly lively, and the figures exactly proportioned. In the evening we reached once more the hospitable house of Mr. Loyal, at Rotterdam. Tuesday, July 1, I called on as many as I could of my friends, and we parted with much affection, We then hired a yacht, which brought us to Helvoetsluys, about eleven the next day. At two we went on board ; but the wind turning against us, we did not reach Harwich till about nine on Friday morning. After a little rest, we procured a carriage, and reached London about eleven at. night. I can by no means regret either the trouble or expense which at tended this little Journey. It opened a way into, as it were, a new world, where the land, the buildings, the people, the customs were all such as I had never seen before : but as those with whom I conversed were of the same spirit with my friends in England, I was as much at home in Utrecht and Amsterdam, as in Bristol and London. Sunday 6, We rejoiced to meet once more with our English friends in the new chapel ; who were refreshed with an account of the gra cious work which God is working in Holland also. Wednesday 9, 1 spent a melancholy hour with Mr. M., and several others, who charged him with speaking grievous things of me, which 116 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JULY, 1783. he then knew to be utterly false. If he acknowledge his fault, I be lieve, he will recover; if not, his sickness is unto death. These four days, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, were as hot as the Midsummer days in Jamaica. The summer heat in Jamaica usually rises the thermometer to about eighty degrees. The quicksilver in my thermometer now rose to eighty-two. Monday 14, I took a little journey into Oxfordshire, and found the good effects of the late storms. The thunder had been uncom monly dreadful ; and the lightning had torn up a field near High- Wycombe, and turned the potatoes into ashes. In the evening I preached in the new preaching house at Oxford, a lightsome, cheer ful place, and well filled with rich and poor scholars, as well as townsmen. Tuesday 15, walking through the city, I observed it swiftly improving in every thing but religion. Observing narrowly the hall at Christ-Church, I was convinced it is both loftier and larger than that of the Stadt-house in Amsterdam. I observed also, the gardens and walks in Holland, although extremely pleasant, were not to be compared with St John's or Trinity-gardens, much less with her parks, Magdalen water-walks, &c. Christ-church meadow, or the White-walk. Wednesday 16, I went on to Witney. There were uncommon thunder and lightning here last Thursday ; but nothing in compari son of what were there on Friday night. About ten the storm was just over the town ; and both the burst of thunder and lightning, or rather sheets of flame, were without intermission. Those that were asleep in the town were waked, and many thought the day of Judg ment was come. Men, women, and children, flocked out of their houses and kneeled down together in the streets. With the flames, the grace of God came down also in a manner never known before : and, as the impression was general, so it was lasting : it did not pass away with the storm; but the spirit of seriousness, with that of grace and supplication, continued. A prayer-meeting being appointed on Saturday evening, the people flocked together, so that the preaching- house was more than filled, and many were constrained to stand with out the door and windows. On Sunday morning, before the usual time of service, the church was quite filled. Such a sight was never seen in that church before. The rector himself was greatly moved, and delivered a pressing, close sermon, with uncommon earnestness. When I came on Wednesday, the same seriousness remained on the generality of the people. I preached in the evening at Wood-Green, where a multitude flocked together, on the Son of man coming in his glory. The world fell heavy upon them, and many of their hearts were as melting wax. Thursday 17, at five, they were still so eager to hear, that the preaching-house would not nearly contain the congregation. After preaching, four and thirty persons desired admission into the society; every one of whom was, for the present at least, under very serious impressions; and most of them there is reason to hope, will bring forth fruit with patience. In the evening I preached to a lovely congregation at Stroud, and on Friday after noon f'ame to Bristol. Aug. 1783.] rev. john wesley's journal 117 Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I spent at Bath. Thursday 24, I went with a few friends to Blase-Castle. The woods on the side of the hill, cut through various directions, are the pleasantest I ever saw, little inferior to the Leasows, and, by the beautiful pros pects, far superior to the Stow gardens. Afterwards we took a view of Lord Clifford's woods at King's- Weston. They are amazingly beautiful : I have seen nothing equal to them in the West of Eng land, and very few in any other parts. In the evening I read to the congregation an account of our brethren in Holland, and many thanksgivings were rendered to God on their account. Tuesday 29, Our Conference began, at which two important points were considered, first, The cause of Birstal-House, and secondly, The state of Kingswood school. With regard to the former, our breth ren earnestly desired, that I would go to Birstal myself, believing this would be tbe most effectual way of bringing the trustees to rea son. With regard to the latter, we all agreed, that either the school should cease, or the rules of it be particularly observed : particularly, that the children should never play; and that a master should be al ways present with them. Tuesday, August 5, Early in the morning I was seized with a most impetuous flux. In a few hours it was joined by a violent and almost continual cramp : first, in my feet, legs, thighs ; then in my side and my throat. The case being judged extreme, a grain and a half of opium was given me in three doses : this speedily stop ped the cramp, but, at the same time, took away my speech, hearing, and power of motion, and locked me up from head to foot, so that I lay a mere log, I then sent for Dr. Drummond, who, from that time, attended me twice a day. For some days I was worse and worse, till on Friday I was removed to Mr. Castleman's. Still my head was not affected, and I had no pain, although in a continual fever: but I continued slowly to recover, so that I could read or write an hour or two at a time. On Wednesday 12, I took a vomit, which almost shook me to pieces, but however did me good. Sunday 17, and all the following week, my fever gradually abated ; but I had a continual thirst, and little or no increase of strength : nevertheless, being unwilling to be idle, on Saturday 23, I spent half an hour with the penitents ; and, finding myself no worse, on Sunday 24, I preach ed at the new room, morning and afternoon. Finding my strength was now in some measure restored, I determined to delay no longer; but, setting out on Monday 25, reached Gloucester in the afternoon. In the evening I preached in the town-hall, I believe, not in vain. Tuesday 26, I went on to Worcester, where many young people are just setting out in the ways of God. I joined fifteen of them this afternoon to the society, all of. them, I believe, athirst for salvation. Wednesday 27, I preached at Birmingham, and had a comfortable season. Thursday 28, I paid another visit to the amiable family at Hilton-hall. Friday 29, about ten, I preached, for the first time, at Stafford, to a large and deeply attentive congregation. It is now the day of small things here : but the grain of mustard-seed may grow into a great tree. 118 rev. john wesley's journal. [sept. 1783. Hence I rode to Congleton. I had received abundance of com plaints against the assistant of this circuit, James Rogers. Saturday 30, I heard all the parties face to face, and encouraged them to speak their whole minds. I was surprised : so much prejudice, anger, and bitterness, on so slight occasion I never saw : however, after they had had it out, they were much softened, if not quite reconciled. Sunday 31, I preached in the new church at Macclesfield, both morning and afternoon. I believe, we had seven hundred commu nicants. Monday, September 1, We clambered over the mountains to Bux ton. In the afternoon I preached in Fairfield church about half a mile from the town : it was thoroughly filled with serious and atten tive hearers. Tuesday 2, we went to Leeds, where I was glad to find several preachers. Wednesday 3, I consulted the preachers, how it was best to pro ceed with the trustees of Birstal-House, to prevail upon them to set tle it on the Methodist-Plan. They all advised me to begin by preach ing there : accordingly I preached on Thursday evening, and met the society. I preached again in the morning. Friday 5, about nine, I met the nineteen trustees, and, after exhorting them to peace and fove, said, "All that I desire is, that this house may be settled on the Methodist Plan ; and the same clause may be inserted in your deed, which is inserted in the deed of the new chapel in London: viz. ' In case the doctrine or practice of any preacher should, in the opinion of the major part of the trustees, be not conformable to Mr. W.'s Sermons, and Notes on the New Testament; on representing this to the nearest assistants, after a proper hearing, another preacher shall be sent within three months.' " Five of the trustees were willing to accept of our first proposals: the rest were not willing. Although I could not obtain the end proposed, and in that respect had only my labour for my pains, yet I do not at all repent of my journey : I have done my part; let others bear their own burden. Going back nearly the same way I came, on Saturday 13, I reached Bristol. I had, likewise, good reward for my labour, in the recovery of my health, by a journey of five or six hundred miles. On Wednesday 17, and the two following days, I visited several of the country societies; and found most of them, not only increas ing in number, but in the knowledge and love of God. Friday 26, Observing the deep poverty of many of our brethren; I determined to do what I could for their relief. I spoke severally to some that were in good circumstances, and received about forty pounds : next I inquired, who were in the most pressing want, and visited them at their own houses. I was surprised to find- no mur muring spirits among them, but many were truly happy in God: and all of them appeared to be exceedingly thankful for the scanty relief which they received. Sunday 28, It being a fair day, I snatched the opportunity of preaching abroad to twice or thrice as many as the room would have contained. Wednesday, October 1, I preached at Bath to such a OCT. 1783.] REV. john wesley's journal. 119 congregation as I have not seen there for a long season. All my leisure hours this week I employed in visiting the remaining poor, and in begging for them. Having collected about fifty pounds more, 1 was enabled to relieve most of those that were in pressing distress. Monday, October 6, Leaving the society in a more prosperous way than it had been for several years, I preached in the Devizes about noon, and at Sarum in the evening. Captain Webb lately kindled a flame here, and it is not yet gone out Several persons were still rejoicing in God, and the people, in general, were much quickened. Tuesday 7, I found his preaching in the street at Win chester had been blest greatly : many were more or less convinced of sin, and several had found peace with God. I never saw the preaching-house so crowded before, with serious and attentive hear ers: so was that at Portsmouth also. Wednesday 8, we took a wher ry for the Isle of Wight. Before we were half over, the sea rose, and the water washed over us : however we got safe to Wotten- bridge, and then walked on to Newport. There is much life among the people here, and they walk worthy of their profession. Thursday 9, I went to Newton, (two miles from Newport,) sup posed to be the oldest town in the isle: but its glory is past: the church lies in ruins, and the town has scarcely six houses remaining: however, the preaching-house was thoroughly filled, and the people appeared to be all of one rank, none rich and none extremely poor; but all were extremely serious and attentive. Friday 10, I crossed over to Southampton, and found two or three there also who feared and loved God. Then I went to Winchester, and had the pleasure of dining with Mr. Lowth, and supping with Mrs. Blackwell. Here six lovely children are in admirable order: it is a pleasure to see them. A clergyman having offered me his church, I purposed beginning at five; but the key was not to be found : so I made a virtue of necessity, and preached near the Cross- street, probably, to double the congregation which would have been in the church. Many of the Dutch prisoners remaining here, I paid them a short visit. When they were brought hither first, one of them prayed with as many as desired it, and gave them a word of exhortation. Presently one found peace with God, and joined him in that labour of love. These increased, so that they have now five exhorters : many are justified, and many more convinced of sin. About two hundred of them were met together when I came. They first sung a hymn in their own language. I then gave them a short exhorta tion in English, for which they were extremely thankful. Saturday 11, Just at twelve, (the same hour as at Bristol,) I was taken exceedingly ill, and so Continued till three. I then took chaise, as I had appointed, and was better and better every stage, and quite well when I Came to London. Monday 13, I preached at Wallingford. Tuesday 14, I went on to Oxford, and found both the congregation and society increased in zeal as well as in number. Wednesday 15, I came to Witney. The flame which was kindled here by that providential storm of thunder Yol. 4.— P lm REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [OCT. 1,783. and lightning, is not extinguished, but has continued ever since, with no discernible intermission. The preaching-house is still too small for the congregation. Thursday 16, I preached at High- Wycombe, and on Friday returned to London. Sunday 19, I took the Diligence for Norwich, and preached there the next evening to more than the house would contain ; and both this night and the following, we sensibly felt that God was in the midst Of us. Wednesday 22, I Went to Yarmouth. Often this poor society had been Well nigh shattered in pieces ; first by Benjamin Worship, then a furious Calvanist, tearing away nearly half of them ; next by John Simpson, turning Antinomian, and scattering most that were left. It has pleased God, contrary to all human probabili ty, to raise a new society out of the dust; nay, and to give them cour age to build a new preaching-house, which is Well finished, at>d con tains about five hundred persons. I opened it this evening ; and as many as could get in seemed to be deeply affected. Who knows but God is about to repair the waste places, and to gather a people that shall be scattered no more ? Thursday 23, We went to Lowestoffe, where the people have stood firrh from the beginning. Observing in the evening, that forty or fifty people were talking together, as soon as service was over, (a miserable custom that prevails in most places of public worship, throughout England and Ireland,) I strongly warned the congrega tion against it, as I had done those at Norwich and Yarmouth. They received it in love, and, the next evening, all went silently away. But this warning must be given again and again, in every place, or it will not be effectual. Saturday 25, I preached in Lowestoffe at five; at eight to an earnest, lively people at Cove ; and at one to a more numerous, but not more lively, congregation at Loddon. The most numerous was that at Norwich in the evening, many of whom were truly alive to God. Sunday 26, I gave the sacrament at seven ; at nine I preached at Bear-street, where I am in hopes considerable good will be done. The most serious congregation in our house we had at two ; but the most numerous at six; though not above half of those that came could get in. Those that could hear, did not lose their labour; for God satisfied the hungry with good things. Monday, October 27, I talked at large with M. F. Such a case I have not known before; she has been in the society nearly from the beginning. She found peace with God five and twenty years ago, and the pure love of God a few years after. Above thirty years she has been a class and a band leader, and of very eminent use. Ten months since, she was accused of drunkenness, and of revealing the secret of her friend: being informed of this, I wrote to Norwich, (as I then be lieved the charge,) that she must be no longer a leader, either of a band or a class : the preacher told her further, that, in his judgment, she was unfit to be a member of the society. Upon this she gave up her ticket, together with the band and her class papers. Immediately all her friends, (of whom she seemed to have a large number,) forsook DEC. 1783.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 121 her at once : no one knew her or spoke to her : she was as a dead thing out of mind. On making a more particular inquiry, I found, that Mrs. N. (formerly a common woman) had revealed her own secret, to Dr. Hunt, and twenty people besides : so the first accusation vanished into air. As to the second, I verily believe the drunkenness with which she was charged, was in reality, the falling down in a fit So we have thrown away one of the most useful leaders we ever had, for these wonderful reasons ! Wednesday 29, I crossed over to Lynn, and found things much better than I expected. The behaviour of Mr. G — (which one would have imagined would have done much harm) had rather done good. People in general cried, "Let that bad man go, they will do better without him." And the house was sufficiently crowded with serious hearers. November 1, I returned to London. In the two following weeks I visited the classes both in London and the neighbouring societies. Sunday 16, being much importuned, I preached in the evening at Mr. Maxfield's chapel : but I dare not do so again, as it cannot contain one-third of the congregation at the new chapel. Monday 17, I preached at Sevenoaks, and on Tuesday 18, at Mount Ephraim, near Tunbridge- Wells. Wednesday 19, 1 came once more to the lovely family at Shoreham. A little longer that venera ble old man is permitted to remain here, that the flock may not be scattered. When I was at Sevenoaks I made an odd remark. In the year 1769, I weighed an hundred and twenty-two pounds. In 1783, I weighed not a pound more or less. I doubt whether such another instance is to be found in Great Britain. Monday 24, 1 preached at Canterbury, and again on Wednesday: on Tuesday 25, at Dover : Thursday 27, at Sheerness, where Mr. Fox read prayers, and I preached on those words in the second Les son, To-day, if yc will hear his voice, harden not your hearts. Friday 28, I returned to London. Tuesday December 2, I married Mr. Rutherford, and Miss Lydia Duplex. Wednesday 3, I took a little journey into Hertfordshire; and having preached at Hinxworth and Wrestlingworth, on Friday 5, I preached at Barnet, and, on Saturday 6, returned to London. I now inquired more carefully and particularly into the strange case of poor Mr. M. : but the more I inquired, the worse the matter appeared to be. It was plain, by the evidence of many unexception able witnesses, that he had told innumerable lies : affirming, denying, and affirming again ! And this man, who has lived above twenty years in a constant course of lying and slandering, tells you, " He enjoys constant communion with God, and that nothing can make him happier, but heaven !" Thursday 18, 1 spent two hours with that great man, Dr. Johnson, who is sinking into the grave by a gentle decay. Wednesday 24, while we were dining at Mr. Blunt's, his servant-maid, ill of a sore throat, died. Saturday 27, 1 dined at Mr, Awbrey's withJMr. Wy- 122 rev. john wesley's journal, [feb. 17S4. nantz, son of the Dutch merchant, at whose house I met with Peter Bohler and his brethren, forty-five years ago. Wednesday 31, we concluded the year at the new chapel, with the voice of praise and thanksgiving. Thursday, January 1, 1784, 1 retired for two or three days to Peck- ham. Sunday 4, though it rained violently, we had, I believe, upward of eighteen hundred people, at the renewal of the covenant: many found an uncommon blessing therein. I am sure I did for one. Tuesday 6, At noon I preached at Barking, and in the evening at Purfleet, to a people that were all alive. Wednesday 7, I went on to Colchester, and on Friday 9, returned to London. Monday 12, Desiring to help some that were in pressing want, but not having any money left, I believed it was not improper, in such a case, to desire help from God. A few hours after, one, from whom I expected nothing less, put ten pounds into my hands. Wednesday 21, Being vehemently accused, by a well-meaning man, of very many things, particularly of covetousness and uncour- teousness, I referred the matter to three of our brethren : truly, in these articles, / know nothing by myself: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. Saturday 24, I began visiting the classes in the town and country. Sunday 25, I preached in the afternoon in St. George's, Southwark, a very large and commodious church. Thursday February 4, 1 went down to Nottingham, and preached a charity-sermon for the general hospital. The next day I returned to London. In the following week I visited the country societies. Saturday 14, 1 desired all our preachers to meet, and consider tho roughly the proposal of sending missionaries to the East-Indies. After the matter had been fully considered, we were unanimous in our judgment, that we have no call thither yet, no invitation, no pro vidential opening of any kind. Thursday 19, I spent an agreeable hour with the modern Hanni bal, Paschal Paoli, probably the most accomplished general that is now in the world. He is of a middle size; thin, well-shaped, gen teel, and has something extremely striking in his countenance. How much happier is he now, with his moderate pension, than he was in the midst of his victories ! On Saturday, having a leisure hour, I made an end of that strange book Orlando Furioso. Ariosto had doubtless an uncommon genius and subsequent poets have been greatly indebted to him : yet it is hard to say, which was most out of his senses, the hero or the poet He has not the least regard even to probability : his marvellous transcends all conception. Astolpho's shield and horn, and voyage to the moon; the lance that unhorses every one; the all-penetrating sword, and I know not how many impenetrable helmets and coa's of mail ; leaves transformed into ships, and into leaves again • stones turned into horses, and again into stones, are such monstrous'fictions as never appeared in the world before, and one would hope never will again 0 ! who that is not himself out of his senses, can com- pare Ariosto with Tasso ! MARCH, 1784.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 123 Monday, March 1, 1 went to Newbury, and preached in the even ing to a large and deeply affected congregation. Tuesday 2, and Wednesday 3, I preached at Bath ; and on Thursday 4, went on to Bristol: Friday 5, I talked at large with our masters in Kingswood school, who are now just such as I wished for : at length the rules of the house are punctually observed, and the children are all in good order. Saturday 6, I spent a few melancholy minutes at Mr. Henderson's with the lost Louisa. She is now in a far more deplorable case than ever. She used to be mild, though silly ; but now she is quite furious. I doubt the poor machine cannot be repaired in this life. The next week I visited the classes at Bristol. Friday 12, being at Samuel Rayner's in Bradford, I was convinced of two vulgar errors ; the one, that nightingales will not live in cages ; the other, that they only sing a month or two in the year. He has now three nightingales in cages, and they sing almost all day long, from Novem ber to August. Saturday 13, about nine I preached at Trowbridge, where a large congregation quickly attended. Returning to Bristol, I lodged once more at E — J — 's, a genuine old Methodist. God has lately taken away her only brother, as well as her beloved sister. But she was still able to say, " It is the Lord; let him do what seemeth him good. " Monday 15, Leaving Bristol, after preaching at five, in the even ing I preached at Stroud, where, to my surprise, I found the morn ing preaching was given up, as also in the neighbouring places. If this be the case while I am alive, what must it be when I am gone ? Give up this, and Methodism too will degenerate into a mere sect, only distinguished by some opinions and modes of worship. Tuesday 16, I preached in Painswick at noon, and at Gloucester in the evening. The room was full at five in the morning; and both the preachers and people promised to neglect the early preaching no more. Wednesday 17, we went to Cheltenham, which I had not seen for many years. I preached at noon to half a house-full of hearers, most of them cold and dead enough : I expected to find the same at Tewksbury, but was agreeably disappointed. Not only the congre gation was much larger, but I admired their teachableness. On my mentioning the impropriety of standing at prayer, and sitting while we were singing praise to God, they all took advice, kneeling while we prayed, and stood up while we sung psalms: Thursday 18, We crossed over to Bengeworth, where Mr. Cooper read prayers, and I preached. Friday 19, being informed, that my chaise could pass part of the way to Broad Marston, I went boldly for a while, and then stuck fast: I borrowed a horse and went on. At five I preached in Pebworth church, and at five in the morning in our own chapel at Broad Marston. As we rode back to Bengeworth, the cold was so intense, that it had an effect I never felt before; it made me downright sick : however, I went on, and preached in the church at eleven, and in the evening at Worcester. Sunday 21, I preached to a crowded audience, in St. Andrew's church : the vicar 124 rev. john wesley's journal. [march, 1784. read prayers, and afterwards told me, " I should be welcome to the use of his church, whenever I came to Worcester." Monday 22, In the evening I preached at Birmingham. Tuesday 23, I preached in the church at Quinton, to a congregation gathered from all parts. Not many appeared to be unaffected ; for the power of God was eminently present. After preaching at various other places, on Saturday 27, 1 went to Madeley ; and at Mr. Fletcher's desire, revised his letters to Dr. Priestley. I think, there is hardly another man in England, so fit to encounter him. Sunday 28, notwithstanding the severe weather, the church was more than filled. I preached on part of the epistle, (He brews ix. 13, &c.) in the afternoon, on The grace of God that bringeth salvation, and I believe, God applied it to many hearts. Monday 29, 1 gave an exhortation at Sheriff-Hales, in my way to Stafford. When I came thither I found no notice had been given ; so I had only a small company, in a deplorable hole, formerly a stable. Hence we went to Lane-End, a village two or three miles from New- castle-under-Lyme. It was still piercingly cold : but the preaching- house would not hold a fourth part of the people, so I preached in the open air ; the moon giving us clear light, though not much heat. The house was filled at five in the morning : and God again applied his word. Tuesday 30, I preached in the new preaching-house at Henley- Green ; but this was far too small to hold the congregation. Indeed this country is all on fire, and the flame is still spreading from village to village. The preaching-house at Newcastle just held the congre gation, many being kept away by the election, especially the gentry. But still the poor heard the gospel preached, and received it with all readiness of mind. Wednesday 31, 1 reached Burslem, where we had the first society in the country ; and it is still the largest and the most in earnest. I was obliged to preach abroad. The house would but just contain the societies at the love-feast ; at which many, both men and women, simply declared the wonderful works of God. I did not find so lively a people at Congleton : although the wounds made by prejudice were nearly healed, yet a faintness and deadness remained. I found the same sad effects of prejudice at Macclesfield : but there are so many here truly alive to God, that his work goes on still, only not in so rapid a manner as it might otherwise have done. Sunday, April 4, I preached at the new church, morning and even ing, to a London congregation. Monday 6, about noon I preached at Alpringham, to an unusually large congregation. I was surprised when I came to Chester, to find, that there also, morning preaching was quite left off, for this worthy reason, " Because the people will not come, or at least, not in the winter." If so, " the Methodists are a fallen people." Here is proof. They have lost their first love • and they never will or can recover it till they do the first works. As soon as I set foot in Georgia, I began preaching at five in the morning. And every communicant, that is, every serious person in APRIL, 1784.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 125 the town, constantly attended throughout the year ; I mean, came every morning, winter and summer, unless in the case of sickness. They did so till I left the province. In the year 1738, when God began his great work in England, I began preaching at the same hour, winter and summer, and never wanted a congregation. If they will not attend now, they have lost their zeal, and then it can not be denied, " they are a fallen people." And in the mean time we are labouring to secure the preaching- houses to the next generation : in the name of God, let us, if possible, secure the present generation from drawing back to perdition ! Let all the preachers, that are still alive to God, join together as one man, fast and pray, lift up their voice as a trumpet, be instant, in season, out of season, to convince them they are fallen, and exhort them, instantly to repent, and do the first works. This in particular, rising in the morning, without which neither their souls nor bodies can long remain in health. Wednesday 7, I crossed over the water to Liverpool. Here I found a people much alive to God : one cause of which was, that they have preaching several mornings in a week, and prayer-meet ings on the rest; all of which they are careful to attend. On Good- Friday, (April 9,) I went to Warrington. In the morning I read prayers, preached and administered the Lord's-Supper, to a serious congregation. I preached at five again, and believe few were pre sent, who did not feel that God was there of a truth. Saturday 10, I preached to a large congregation at Manchester, and to a far larger at ten in the morning, being Easter-day. It was supposed, there were nearly a thousand communicants. But hitherto the Lord has helped me in this respect also. I have found no congre gation which my voice could not command. Monday 12, I found a lovely congregation at Stockport, much alive to God. So was that at Oldham the next day, which was not preceptibly lessened, though it blew a storm, and poured down with rain. Here a young woman of unblamable character (otherwise I should not have given her any credit) gave me a remarkable ac count : she said, " I had totally lost the sight of my right eye, when I dreamed one night, that our Saviour appeared to me : that I fell at his feet, and he laid his hand upon my right eye. Immediately I waked, and from that moment have seen as well with that eye as with the other." I applied to a very large congregation, the case of the Rechabites, (Jer. xxxv.) I asked, 1, Does it appear, that these owed to Jehona- dab, more than the Methodists owe to me ? 2, Are they as observant of my advices (although both scriptural and rational : to instance only in dress and rising early) as the Rechabites were of his advices (of drinking no wine, and living in tents, which had neither Scrip ture nor reason to support them ?) I think, every member of the society at Bolton does take my ad vice, with respect to other things, as well as with respect to dress and rising early ; in consequence of which they are continually in creasing in number as well as in grace. 126 REV. john wesley's journal. [april, 1784. Friday 16, I preached about ten at Wingate, a village five or six miles from Bolton. I was constrained by the multitude of people to preach abroad, though it was exceedingly cold, on All things are ready, come unto the marriage. Truly the people were ready too. They drank in every word. In the evening we had a very uncommon congregation at Wigan. Only one gentlewoman behaved " as she used to do at church ;" (so several afterwards informed me) talking all the time, though no one answered her ! But the rest were deeply attentive ; and I trust will not be forgetful hearers. I had designed to go from hence to Black burn, but hearing that one of our society near Preston, was at the point of death, I turned a little out of my way, to spend half an hour with her. I found Mrs. Nuttal, a lovely, patient creature, praising God continually, though worn away with pining sickness and long- continued pain. Having paid the last office of friendship here, I went to Preston, and preached to a serious congregation. In the evening I preached at Blackburn, where also the society is lively and continually increasing. Sunday 18, After preaching at five, to a numerous congregation (but not one rich or well-dressed person among them, either morn ing or evening! Poor Blackburn !) I hastened on to Gisburn. The church was so full that a few were obliged to stand without the doors. The word was quick and powerful: so it was afterwards at Settle. Sufficient for this day was the labour thereof. Monday 19, I went on to Ambleside, where, as I was sitting down to supper, I was informed, " Notice had been given of my preach ing, and that the congregation was waiting." I would not disap point them, but preached immediately, on Salvation by faith. Among them were a gentleman and his wife, who gave me a very remarkable relation. She said, " She had often heard her mother relate, what an intimate acquaintance had told her, that her husband was concerned in the rebellion of 1745. He was tried at Carlisle, and found guilty. The evening before he was to die, sitting and musing in her chair, she fell fast asleep. She dreamed, one came to her and said, " Go to such a part of the wall, and among the loose stones you will find a key, which you must carry to your husband. She waked, but thinking it a common dream, paid no attention to it. Presently she fell asleep again, and dreamed the very same dream. She started up, put on her cloak and hat, and went to that part of the wall, and among the loose stones found a key. Having, with some difficulty, procured admission into the gaol, she gave this to her husband. It opened the door of his cell, as well as the lock of the prison door. So at midnight he escaped for life." Tuesday 20, We went to Whitehaven, where there is a fairer pros pect than has been for many years. The society is united in love, not conformed to the world, but labouring to experience the full image of God, wherein they were created. The house was filled in the evening, and much more the next, when we had all the church ministers, and most of the gentry in the town ; but they behaved with as much decency as if they had been colliers. MAY, 1784.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 127 Thursdayt22, I preached in the market-house at Cockermouth. In our way thence, we had some of the heaviest rain I have seen in Europe. The sessions being at Carlisle, I could not have the Court house; but we had a good opportunity in our own house. Friday 23, we travelled through a lovely country to Longtpwn, the last town in England, and one of the best built in it, for all the houses are new, from one end to the other. The road from hence to Lang holm is delightfully pleasant, running mostly by the side of a clear river. But it was past seven before we reached Selkirk. Saturday 24, We had frost in the morning, snow before seven, piercing winds all day long, and in the afternoon vehement hail ; so that I did not wonder we had a small congregation at Edinburgh in the evening. Sunday 25, I attended the Tolbooth kirk at eleven. The sermon was very sensible ; but, having no application, was no way likely to awaken drowsy hearers. About four I preached at Lady Maxwell's, two or three miles from Edinburgh, and at six in our own house. For once it was thoroughly filled. I preached on, God is a Spirit, and they that worship him, must worship him in spirit and in truth. I am amazed at this people. Use the most cutting words, and apply them in the most pointed manner: still they hear, but feel no more than the seats they sit upon ! Monday 26, I went to Glasgow, and preached in the evening to a very different congregation. Many attended in the morning, z\- though the morning preaching had been long discontinued, both here and at Edinburgh. In the evening many were obliged to go away, the house not being able lo contain them. Wednesday 28, We found the same inconvenience, but those who could get in, found a remarkable blessing. Thursday 29, the house was thoroughly filled at five : and the hearts of the people were as melting wax. Afterwards I returned to Edinburgh, and in the even ing the house was well filled : so that we must not say, " The people of Edinburgh love the word of God only on the Lord's-day." Friday 30, We went to Perth, now but the shadow of what it was, though it begins to lift up its head. It is certainly the sweetest place in all North-Britain, unless, perhaps, Dundee. I preached in the Tolbooth, to a large and well-behaved congregation. Many of them were present again at five in the morning, May 1. I then went to Dundee, through the Carse of Gowry, the most fruitful valley in the kingdom. And I observe, a spirit of improvement prevails in Dundee, and all the country round about it. Handsome houses spring up on every side. Trees are planted in abundance. Wastes and commons are continually turned into meadows and fruitful fields. There wants only a proportionable improvement in religion, and this will be one of the happiest countries in Europe. In the evening I preached in our own ground to a numerous con gregation: but the next afternoon to one far more numerous, on whom I earnestly enforced, How long halt ye between two opin ions? Many of them seemed almost persuaded to halt no longer: but God only knows the heart. vol. 4. — Q 128 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [MAY, 1784. Monday 3, I was agreeably surprised at the improvement of the land between Dundee and Arbroath. Our preaching-house at Ar broath was completely filled. I spoke exceedingly plain, on the dif ference of building upon the sand, and building upon the rock. Truly these approve the things that are excellent, whether they practise them or not. I found this to be a genuine Methodist society : they are all thoroughly united to each other : they love and keep our rules : they long and expect to be perfected in love : if they con tinue so to do, they will and must increase in number as well as in grace. Tuesday 4, 1 reached Aberdeen between four and five in the after noon. Wednesday 5, I found the morning preaching had been long discontinued : yet the bands and the select society were kept up : but many were faint and weak for want of morning-preaching and prayer- meetings, of which I found scarcely any trace in Scotland. In the evening I talked largely with the preachers, and shewed them the hurt it did both to them and the people, for any one preacher to stay six or eight weeks together in one place : neither can he find matter for preaching every morning and evening: nor will the people come to hear him : hence he grows cold by lying in bed, and so do the people; whereas if he never stays more than a fortnight to gether in one place, he may find matter enough, and the people will gladly hear him. They immediately drew up such a plan for this circuit, which they determined to pursue. Thursday 6, We had the largest congregation at five which I have seen since I came into the kingdom. We set out immediately after preaching, and reached Old Meldrum about ten. A servant of Lady Bamff's was waiting for us there, who desired I would take post- horses to Fortglen. In two hours we reached an inn, which the servant told us was four little miles from her house: so we made the best of our way, and got thither in exactly three hours. All the family received us with the most cordial affection. At seven I preached to a small congregation, all of whom were seriously atten tive, and some, I believe, deeply affected. Friday 7, I took a walk round about the town. I know not when I have seen so pleasant a place. One part of the house is an ancient castle situated on the top of a little hill. At a small distance runs a clear river, with a beautiful wood on its banks. Close to it is a shady walk to the right, and another on the left hand. On two sides of the house there is abundance of wood: on the other, a wide prospect over fields and meadows. About ten I preached again with much liberty of spirit, on Love never faileth. About two I left this charming place, and made for Keith ; but I know not how we could have "rot thither had not Lady Bamff sent me forward, through that miserable road, with four stout horses. I preached about seven to the poor of this world. Not a silk coat was seen among them ; and to the greatest part of them at five in the morning. And I did not at all regret my labour. Saturday 8, We reached the banks of the Spey. I suppose there are few such rivers in Europe. The rapidity of it exceeds even that MAY, 1784.] REV. JOHN WESLEY's JOURNAL. 129 of the Rhine: and it was now much swelled with melting snow: however, we made shift to get over before ten ; and about twelve reached Elgin. Here I was received by a daughter of good Mr. Plenderleith, late of Edinburgh, with whom, having spent an agree able hour, I hastened towards Forres : but we were soon at a full stop again; the river Findam also was so swollen, that we were afraid the ford was not passable : however, having a good guide, we passed it without much difficulty. I found Sir Lodowick Grant almost worn out. Never was a visit more seasonable. By free and friendly con versation, his spirits were so raised, that I am in hopes it will length en his life. Sunday 9, I preached to a small company at noon, on His com mandments are not grievous. As I was concluding, Colonel Grant and his lady came in, for whose sake I began again, and lectured, as they call it, on the former part of. the 15th chapter of St. Luke. We had a larger company in the afternoon, to whom I preached, on Judg ment to come : and this subject seemed to affect them most. Monday 10, I set out for Inverness. I had sent Mr. M'Allum be- ,fore, on George Whitefield's horse, to give notice of my coming. Hereby I was obliged to take both George and Mrs. M'Allum with me in my chaise. To ease the horses, we walked forward from Nairn, ordering Richard to follow us, as soon as they were fed : he did so, but there were two roads ; so as we took one, and he the other, we walked about twelve miles and a half of the way, through heavy rain. We then found Richard waiting for us at a little ale-house, and drove on to Inverness ; but, blessed be God, I was no more tired than when I set out from Nairn. I preached at seven to a far larger congregation than I had seen here since I preached in the kirk : and surely the la bour was not in vain ; for God sent a message to many hearts. Tuesday 11, Notwithstanding the long discontinuance of morning preaching, we had a large congregation at five. I breakfasted at the first house I was invited to at Inverness, where good Mr. M'Kenzie then lived. His three daughters live in it now; one of whom inherits all the spirit of her father. In the afternoon we took a walk over the bridge, into one of the pleasantest countries I have seen. It runs along by the side of the clear river, and is well cultivated, and well wooded. And here first we heard abundance of birds, welcoming the return of spring. The congregation was larger this evening than the last; and great part of them attended in the morning. We had then a solemn parting, as we could hardly expect to meet again in the pre sent world, Wednesday 12, I dined once more at Sir Lodowick Grant's, whom, likewise, I scarcely expect to see any more. His lady is lately gone to rest, and he seems to be swiftly following her. A church being offered me at Elgin in the evening, I had a multitude of hearers, whom I strongly exhorted to Seek the Lord while he may be found. Thursday 13, we took a view of the poor remains of the once mag nificent cathedral. By what ruins are left, the workmanship ap pears to have been exquisitely fine. What barbarians must they 1 30 bev. john wesley's journal. , [may, 1 784. have been, who hastened the destruction of this beautiful pile, by taking the lead off the roof. The church was again well filled in the evening, by those who seemed to feel much more than the night before. In consequence, the morning congregation was more than doubled, and deep attention sat on every face. I do hot despair of good being done even here, provided the preachers be sons of thunder. Friday 14, We saw at a distance the Duke of Gordon's new house, six hundred and fifty feet in front. Well might the Indian ask, "Are you white men no bigger than we red men ? Then whyr do you build such lofty houses?" The country between this and Bamff is well cul tivated, and extremely pleasant. About two I read prayers and preached in the Episcopal chapel at Bamff, one of the neatest towns in the kingdom. About ten I preached in Lady Bamfl's dining-room at Fortglen, to a very serious, though genteel congregation : and af terwards spent a most agreeable evening with the lovely family. Saturday 15, We set out early, and dined at Aberdeen. On the road I read Ewen Cameron's translation of Fingal. I think, he has proved the authenticity of it, beyond all reasonable contradiction. But what a poet was Ossian ! Little inferior to either Homer or Virgil : in some respects superior to both. And what a hero was Fingal ! Far more humane than Hector himself, whom we cannot excuse, for murdering one that lay upon the ground : and with whom Achilles, or even pious JEneas is not worthy to be named. But who is this excellent translator, Ewen Cameron? Is not his other name, Hugh Blair? Sunday 16, 1 went to NewborOugh, a small fishing town, fifteen miles north of Aberdeen. Here is at present, according to its big ness, the liveliest society in the kingdom. I preached in a kind of square, to a multitude of people; and the whole congregation appear ed to be moved, and ready prepared for the Lord. At two in the afternoon, Mr. Black read prayers, and I preached in Trinity chapel. It was crowded with people of all denominations. I preached from 1 Cor. xiii. 1, 2, 3, in utter defiance of their common saying, "He is a good man, though he has bad tempers." Nay, if he has bad tempers, he is no more a good man, than a devil is a good angel. At five I preached in our own chapel, exceedingly crowded, on The form and power of godliness. I am now clear of these people, and can cheerfully commend them to God. Monday 17, I reached Arbroath, and inquired into that odd event which occurred there in the latter end of the last war. The famous Captain Fell came one afternoon to the side of the town, and sent three men on shore, threatening to lay the town in ashes, unless they sent him thirty thousand pounds. That not being done, he began firing on the town the next day, and continued it till night; but per ceiving the country was alarmed, he sailed away the next day, hav ing left some hundred cannon balls behind him ; but not having hurt man, woman, or child, or any thing else, save one old barn door. Tuesday 18, I preached at Dundee. Wednesday 19, I crossed over the pleasant and fertile county of Fife, to Melvell-house, the MAY, 1784.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL, 131 grand and beautiful seat of Lord Leven. He was not at home, be ing gone to Edinburgh, as the King's Commissioner: but the coun tess was, with two of her daughters, and both her sons-m-law. At their desire, I preached in the evening, on It is appointed unto man once to die ; and, I believe, God made the application. Thurs day 10, it blew a storm; nevertheless, with some difficulty, we crossed the Queen's Ferry. Friday 21, I examined the Society, and found about sixty members left. Many of these were truly alive to God : so our labour here is not quite in vain. Saturday 22, I had some close conversation with L. M., who appeared to be clearly sav ed from ssin, although exceedingly depressed by the tottering tene ment of clay. About noon I spent an hour with her poor scholars, forty of whom she has provided with a serious master, who takes pains to instruct them in the principles of religion, as well as in read ing and writing. A famous actress just come down from London, which for the honour of Scotland, just during the sitting of the assem bly, stole avvay a great part of our congregation to-night How much wiser are these Scots than their forefathers ! Sunday 23, I went in the morning to the Tolbooth kirk: in the afternoon to the old Episcopal chapel : but they have lost their glo rying ; they talked the moment service was done, as if they had been in London. In the evening the octagon was well filled ; and I ap plied, with all possible plainness, God is a spirit; and they that worship him, must worship him in spirit and in truth. Monday 24, I preached at Dunbar. Tuesday 25, I spent an hour with Mr. and Mrs. F., a woman every way accomplished. Neither of them had ever heard a sermon out of the kirk ; but they ventured that evening, and, I am in hope, they did not hear in vain. Wednes day 26, we went on to Berwick-upon-Tweed. The congregation in the Townhall was very numerous. So it was, likewise, at five in the morning. Thursday 27, we travelled through a delightful country to Kelso. Here the two seceding ministers have taken true pains to frighten the people from hearing us, by retailing all the ribaldry of Mr. Cudworth, Toplady, and Rowland Hill. But God has called one of them to his account already, and in a fearful manner. As no house could contain the congregation, I preached in the church-yard : and a more decent behaviour I have scarcely ever seen. Afterwards we walked to the Duke of Roxburgh's seat, about half a mile from the town, finely situated on a rising ground, near the ruins of Rox burgh-castle. It has a noble castle ; the front, and the offices round, make it look like a little town. Most of the apartments within are finished in an elegant, but not in a costly manner. I doubt whether two of Mr. Lascelle's rooms at Harewood-house did not cost more in furnishing, than twenty of these. But the duke's house is far larger, containing no less than forty bed-chambers : but it is not nearly fin ished yet, nor probably will be, till the owner is no more seen. Friday 28, I entered into England once more, and in the evening preached in the town-hall at Alnwick. Saturday 29, I should have preached in the town-hall at Morpeth, but it was pre-engaged by a 132 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JUNE, 1784. company of strolling players: so we retired into our own preaching- house. In the afternoon I went on to Newcastle. May 30, Whitsunday, the rain obliged us to be in the orphan-house both morning and evening. But in the afternoon I was forced to preach abroad at the Fell, by the multitudes that flocked together, partly moved by the death of William Bell and his wife, one so soon after the other. Tuesday, June 1, About nine I preached to a large number of the poor people at Howdenpans ; at noon in North Shields ; and in the evening at Newcastle : where I had now great satisfaction, the con gregations both morning and evening being larger than they had been for many years, and the society being much alive, and in great peace and harmony. Friday 4, I went over to Sunderland, and found the work of God here also in a prosperous state. Saturday 5, I saw as many of the people, sick or well, as I could, and was much comforted among them. Sunday 6, I preached at eight in the room. At eleven in Monk-Wearmouth church. I purposed preaching abroad at Newcastle in the evening, but the weather would not per mit : so I preached in the house, on This is the record that God hath given unto us eternal life : and this life is in his Son. Monday 7, About noon I preached at Anham, and in the evening in the town-hall at Hartlepool, where I, had not been for sixteen years. Tuesday 8, I came to Stockton-upon-Tees. Here I found an uncommon work of God among the children: many of them, from six to fourteen, were under serious impressions, and earnestly desirous to save their souls. There were upwards of sixty who con stantly came to be examined, and appeared to be greatly awakened. I preached at noon, on The kingdom of heaven is at hand, and the people seemed to feel every word. As soon as I came down from the desk, I was enclosed by a body of children ; one of whom and another sunk down upon their knees, until they were all kneeling; so I kneeled down myself and began praying for them. Abundance of people ran back into the house. The fire kindled and run from heart to heart, till few, if any, were unaffected. Is not this a new thing in the earth ? God begins his work in children. Thus it has been also in Cornwall, Manchester, and Epworth. Thus the flame spreads to those of riper years; till at length they all know him, and praise him from the least unto the greatest. Wednesday 9, I went to Barnard-Castle. Here I was informed, that my old school-fellow, Mr. Fielding, and his wife, were gone to rest. His son, not choosing to live there, had let his lovely house to a stranger; so, in a little time, his very name and memory will be lost! Sunday 10, After preaching at five, I took horse for the Dales, and about eight preached at Cutherston. Here I had the pleasure of seeing some of our brethren who had been long at variance, cordially recon ciled. Hence we rode through rain and wind to Newbiggen in Tees- dale. Being but a poor horseman, and having a rough horse, I had just strength for my journey, and none to spare ; but after resting awhile, I preached without any weariness. JUNE, 1784.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 133 Having then procured an easier horse, I rode over the great moun tain into Weardale: but I found not my old host; good Stephen Wat son was removed to Abraham's bosom. So was that mother in Isr rael, Jane Nattres. (before, Salkeld) the great instrument of that amazing work among the children : but God is with them still: most of the leaders and many of the people are much alive to God ; as we found in the evening, when we had such a shower of grace as I have seldom known. Friday 11, About ten, riding through a village, called Middleton, I was desired to preach there : so I began in the street without delay. A large number of people came together, and received the word with gladness. Afterwards we rode, at leisure, to Barnard-castle ; and on Saturday 12, to Darlington. Sunday 13, We had a sound, useful sermon at church: at eight I preached in our own room, designing to preach abroad in the after noon, but the rain prevented. Monday 14, about noon I preached at North Allerton, and, I believe, God touched many hearts ; as also at Thirsk, where I preached in the evening, to an attentive congre gation. Tuesday 15, I preached once more to my old friends at Osmother- Iy. About noon I preached at Potto, and in the evening at Hutton- Rudby, where we had a glorious opportunity : some great persons who were present seemed to be struck, and almost persuaded to be Christians. Wednesday 16, I preached in Stokesley about eight; in Gisborough at noon ; and in the evening at Whitby. The morning congregation filled the house. Indeed the society here may be a pattern to all in England. They despise all ornaments, but good works, together with a meek and quiet spirit. I did not see a ruffle, no nor a fashionable cap among them, though many of them are in easy circumstances. I preached at the market-place in the evening, where were at least thrice as many as the house could contain. Saturday 19, I met such a select society as I have not seen since I left London, They were about forty, of whom I did not find one, who had not a clear witness of being saved from inbred sin. Several of them had lost it for a season, but could never rest till they had recovered it And every one of them seemed now to walk in the full light of God's countenance. About one I preached to another congregation of plain people, at Robinhood's-Bay. Here was the first society in all these parts, sev eral years before there was any in Whitby : but their continual jars with each other, prevented their increase either in grace or num ber: at present they seem to be all at peace. So I hope we shall now have joy over them. In the evening I preached to a large congregation in Scarborough. Sunday 20, the new vicar shewed plainly, why he refused those who desired the liberty for me to preach in his church. A keener sermon I never heard. So all I have done to persuade the people to attend the church is overturned at once! And all who preach thus, will drive the Methodists from the church, in spite of all I can do. 134 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JUNE, 1784. I preached in the evening, on 1 Cor. xiii. 1, 2, 3. And God migh tily confirmed his word, applying it to the hearts of many of the hfifl-Ffirs Monday 21, The rain drove us into the house at Bridlington. Tuesday 22, we stopped at a little town, where Mr. Osbaldeston lately lived, a gentleman of large fortune, whose lady was as gay and fashionable as any : but suddenly she ran from east to west. She parted with all her clothes, dressed like a servant, and scarcely al lowed herself the necessaries of life. But who can convince her that she is going too far ? I fear nothing less than Omnipotence. About one I preached to a large and remarkably serious congrega tion at Beverley ; about six at Hull. Afterwards I met the society, and strongly exhorted them To press on to the prize of their high calling. Thursday 24, I preached about one at Pocklington ; and in the evening at York, where I enforced, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Friday 25, Many were in tears, and a fire seemed to run through the whole congregation, while I opened that Scripture, They shall rest in their beds, each one walking in his uprightness. Such another opportunity we had in the evening, while I was explaining the words of our Lord to the Centurion, Go thy way: and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. Saturday 26, About two I preached at Thorn, and inquired what fruit remained of the great work of God there : Some, I found, had drawn back to their sins; but many held fast what they received. Hence I rode to Epworth, which I still love beyond most places in the world. In the evening I besought all them that had been so highly favoured,. Not to receive the grace of God in vain. Sunday 27, I preached at Misterton at eight, and at Overthorpe, about one. At four I took my stand in Epworth market-place, and preached on those words in the gospel for the day, There is joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons that need no repentance. It seemed as if very few, if any, of the sinners, then present, were unmoved. Monday 28, I inquired into the state of the work of God, which was so remarkable two years ago : it is not yet. at an end ; but there has been a grievous decay, owing to several causes: 1, The preach ers that followed Thomas Tattershall, were neither so zealous nor so diligent as he had been : 2, The two leaders, to whom the young men and lads were committed, went up and down to preach, and so left them in a great measure to themselves, or rather to the world and the devil : 3, The two women, who were the most useful of all oth ers, forsook them ; the one leaving town, and the other leaving God : 4, The factories, which employed so many of the children, failed, so that all of them were scattered abroad : 5, The meetings of the chil dren by the preachers were discontinued, so their love soon grew cold : and as they rose into men and women, foolish desires entered, and destroyed all the grace they had left: nevertheless, great part of them stopd firm, especially the young maidens, and still adorn their profession. This day I met the children myself, and found SVLY, 1784.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 135 some of them still alive to God. And I do not doubt, but if the preachers are zealous and active, they will recover most of those that have been scattered. , To-day I entered on my eighty-second year, and found myself just as strong to labour, and as fit for exercise of body or mind, as I was forty years ago. I do not impute this to second causes; but to the Sovereign Lord of all. It is he who bids the sun of life stand still, so long as it pleaseth him. I am as strong at eighty-one, as I was at twen ty-one ; but abundantly more healthy, being a stranger to the head-ach, tooth-ach, and other bodily disorders, which attended me in my youth. We can only say, The Lord reigneth ! While we live, let us live to him ! In the afternoon I went to Gainsborough, and willingly accepted the offer of Mr. Dean's chapel : the audience was large, and seemed to be much affected : possibly some good may be done, even at Gains borough! Tuesday 29, I preached in the street at Scotter, to a large and deeply attentive congregation. It was a solemn and comfortable season. In the evening I read prayers and preached in Ouston church, and again in the morning. Wednesday 30, in the evening I preach ed at Epworth. In the residue of the week I preached morning and evening in several of the neighbouring towns. Sunday, July 4, 1 read prayers and preached in Ouston church, so filled, as probably it never was before : and I believe every one, awak ened or unawakened, felt God was there. The congregation in the afternoon at Epworth market-place, was thought to be larger than ever it was before. And great was the Holy One of Israel in the midst of them.Monday 5, At twelve I preached in the elegant house at Doncaster, for once pretty well filled, and spoke more strongly, indeed more roughly, than I am accustomed to do. It was sultry hot (as it has been once or twice before) while we went to Rotherham, where I preached abroad to a larger congregation, both of rich and poor, than even at Epworth ; and earnestly enforced on those who are called believers, By their fruits ye shall know them. Tuesday 6, I joined again the select society, which was fallen in pieces, and prayed them to be wiser for the time to come. I break fasted at that amiable old man's Mr. Sparrow, elder brother to his twin-soul, whom I knew at Westminster. Thence I went on to Sheffield, where the society is increased to nearlyseven hundred mem bers. How swiftly does the work of God spread among those, who earn their bread by the sweat of their brow ! Wednesday 7, It was supposed, there were a thousand persons present at five in the morning. A young gentlewoman was with us at breakfast, who was mourning, and refused to be comforted. We prayed for her in faith ; and in a few hours she was enabled to re joice in God. her Saviour. In the afternoon the heat was scarcely supportable, and it seemed to increase every hour : but, between two and three in the morning, Thursday 8, came a violent storm, follow ed by uncommon thunder and a flood of rain, which continued about vol. 4.— R 136 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JULY, 1784. three hours: this entirely cooled the air; and ceasing just as we set out, left us a pleasant journey to Wakefield. I recommended to the congregation here, (and afterwards in many other places) the example of the people in Holland (at least where- ever I have been) who never talk in a place of public worship, either before or after the service : they took my advice. None curtsied or bowed, or spoke to any one, but went out in as decent a manner, and in as deep silence, as any I saw at Rotterdam or Utrecht. Friday 9, I preached at Huddersfield in the morning, at Long wood-house at noon, and in the evening at Halifax. Sunday 11, I preached in the morning at Greatland-house : at one and in the even ing at Halifax. The house would in no wise contain the people ; yet the wind was so high, that I could not preach abroad. Monday 12, Mr. Sutcliffe read prayers, and I preached at Hep- tonstall, where many poor souls were refreshed. Between one and two I preached in Todmorden church, and at five in our own preach ing-house, boldly situated on the steep ascent of a tall mountain. Tuesday 13, I went to Burnley, a place which had been tried for many years, but without effect. It seems, the time was now come. High and low, rich and poor, now flocked together from all quarters; and all were eager to hear, except one man, who was the town-crier. He began to bawl amain, till his wife ran to him, and literally stop ped his noise: she seized him with one hand, and clapped the other upon his mouth, so that he could not get out one word : God then began a work, which I am persuaded will not soon come to an end. Wednesday 14, I preached at Colne. Thursday 15, I retired to Otley, and rested two days. Sunday 18, I preached morning and afternoon at Bingley church ; but it would not near contain the con gregation. Before service I stepped into the Sunday-school, which contains two hundred and forty children, taught every Sunday by several masters, and superintended by the curate. So many chil dren in one parish are restrained from open sin, and taught a little good manners, at least, as well as to read the Bible. I find these schools springing up wherever I go. Perhaps God may have a deeper end therein than men are aware of. Who knows but some of these schools may become nurseries for Christians? Tuesday 20, Though it rained much, in the morning we had a good congregation at fiye, Wednesday 21, I met the society, and found but one or two of the original members, most of them being gone to Abraham's bosom. I was a little surprised to find that only two or three of the rest had stood fast in the glorious liberty : but indeed most of them recovered their loss four years ago. Thursday 22, Although it rained, we had a pretty large congrega tion in the morning, and most of them were athirst for full salvation. Friday 23, abundance of people were present at fire in the morning, and such a company of children as I have hardly seen in England. Saturday 24, In the evening I went to Hanging-Heaton, a little village near Dewsbury. Some months since an uncommon work of God broke out here ; the whole town was in a flame. There are now about two hundred in the society, and very few that do not AX'tt. 1784.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 137 know God. I was obliged to preach abroad, by the multitude that flocked together : and many of them found that God was there, to their unspeakable comfort. Sunday 25, I preached to several thousand at Birstal, and to at least as many at Leeds. Tuesday 27, our Conference began, at which four of our brethren, after long debate, (in which Mr. Fletcher took much pains) acknowledged their fault, and all that was past was forgotten. Thursday 29, being the public thanksgiving-day, as there was not room for us in the old church, I read prayers, as well as preached at our room. I admired the whole service for the day. The prayers, Scriptures, and every part of it, pointed at one thing: Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. Having five clergymen to assist me, we administered the Lord's- Supper, as was supposed, to sixteen or seventeen hundred persons. Sunday, August 1, We were fifteen clergymen at the old church. Tuesday 3, our Conference concluded in much love, to the great disappointment of many. Tuesday, August 3, 1784, Our Conference being concluded, I left Leeds this evening, and, lodging at Halifax, went on the next day to Manchester. Thursday 5, we set out early, but being obliged to go round about, we did not reach Shrewsbury till half past seven. I be gan preaching immediately, in memory of good John Appleton, lately called away, on Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might, for there is no toork, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom in the grave whither thou goest. Friday 6, I preach ed at Birmingham, and on Saturday 7, at Worcester. Sunday 8, I preached in the afternoon in St Andrew's church, and was agreeably surprised to observe the congregation deeply at tentive, while I applied the story of Dives and Lazarus. Monday 9, I rode over Malvern-hills, which afford one of the finest prospects in the kingdom, to Ledbury ; then through miserable roads to Ross, I preached in the evening at Monmouth, to a very quiet and civil con gregation. Tumults were now at an end, as I lodged at the house of a gentleman, whom no one cared to oppose. And even in the morning we had a large congregation, both of rich and poor. Tuesday 10, I took a walk to what is called the Bowling-green house, not a mile from the town. I have hardly seen such a place before. A gravel walk leads through the most beautiful meadows, surrounded on all sides by fruitful hills, to a gently-rising ground, on the top of which is a smooth green, on which the gentry of the town frequently spend the evening in dancing. From hence spread various walks bordered with flowers, one of which leads down to the river; on the bank of which runs another walk, whose artless shades are not penetrated by the sun. These are full as beautiful, in their kind, as even the hanging-woods at Brecknock. Wednesday 11, it was with some difficulty that I broke from this affectionate people, and went on through a most lovely country to Brecon. Thursday 12, I found the little flock were in great peace, and in creasing in number as well as in strength. I preached in the town- hall. I never saw such a congregation in Brecknock before ; no, 138 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [AU©. 1784. not even when I preached abroad. And I scarcely ever found the power of God so present: it seemed as if every one must know the Lord, from the least to the greatest. Friday 13, We went on to Caermarthen. After preaching, I ad vised all the audience to copy after the decent behaviour of the Hol landers, in and after public worship. They all took my advice : none opened their lips till they came into the open air. Saturday 14, Was the hottest day we have had this summer. We reached Tenby soon after one. After dinner we took a walk through the town. I think there is not such a town in England. It is the Killmallock of Great-Britain. Two thirds of the ancient town are either in ruins, or vanished away. In the evening I preached in the street, to a large congregation of rich and poor, all quiet and atten tive. I cannot but think, salvation has at length come to this town also. I preached again in the morning, Sunday 15, and the word seemed to sink into tbe hearts of the hearers. Thence we went by Pembroke to St. Daniel's. It was a comfortable season. We had such another at Pembroke in the evening. Many mourned after God, and many rejoiced with joy unspeakable. Monday 16, 1 preaehed at Haverford- West. Tuesday 17, we rode over to Roach, eight miles from Haverford. The new preaching- house was pretty well filled : and I was glad to find that a little ride did me no harm. Wednesday 18, 1 went to Admiral Vaughan's at Tracoon, one of the pleasantest seats in Great-Britain. The house is embosomed in lofty woods, and does not appear till you drop down upon it. The admiral governs his family, as he did in his ship, with the utmost punctuality : the bell rings, and all attend without delay, whether at meals, or at morning and evening prayer. I preached at seven, on Phil. iii. 8, and spent the evening in serious conversation. Thursday 19, 1 went on to Mr. Bowens at Llynguair, another most agreeable place ; the more so because of the company, Mr. and Mrs. Bowen, his brother, and six of their eleven children, two of whom are lately come from the University. Friday 20, about eight I preached in the church at Newport, and spoke strong words, if hap pily some might awake out of sleep. Thence we went to Haver- ford-West, it being the day when the bishop held his visitation. As I was returning in the afternoon from visiting some of the poor peo ple, a carriage in the street obliged me to walk very near a clergy man, who made me a low bow : I did the same to him ; though I did not then know the bishop, who has, indeed, won the hearts of the people in general, by his courteous and obliging behaviour. Sunday 22, 1 heard a good sermon in the church at Caermarthen, being the Assize sermon, on There is no power but of God. In the evening I preached in the market-place, to, I think, the largest congregation I ever saw in Wales. Thursday 26, on the road I read over Voltaire's " Memoirs of himself." Certainly, never was a more consummate coxcomb : but even his character is less horrid than that of his royal hero. Surely, so unnatural a brute never disgraced a throne before. Credite, Romani : Credite, Graii ! A monster, that made it a SEPT. 1784,] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 139 fixed rule, to let no woman and no priest enter his palace ; that not only gloried in the constant practice of sodomy himself, but made it free for all his subjects. What a pity that his father had not behead ed him in his youth, and saved him from all this sin and shame. In the evening I preached in the town-hall at Cardiff, and shewed the scriptural meaning of that much mistaken word, A Christian. Friday 27, I preached at Newport. I hardly know such another place. The people hear and hear ; and are as much moved as the benches they sit upon. I spoke as strongly as I possibly could, on Awake, thou that steepest ! and I judged from the number who attended at five in the morning, that it was not all lost labour. Saturday 28, Being informed the boat would pass at eight, we has tened to the New Passage : but we were time enough ; for it did not set out till past six in the evening : however, we got into the boat about seven, and before nine reached Bristol. Tuesday 31, Dr. Coke, Mr. Whatcoat, and Mr. Vasey came down from London, in order to embark for America. • Wednesday, September 1, Being now clear in my own mind, I took a step which I had long weighed in my mind, and appointed Mr. Whatcoat and Mr. Vasey to go and serve the desolate sheep in America. Friday 3, 1 preached at Guinea-street, and the word of God was with power, in consequence of which there was a large congregation at five in the morning, although they had not been ac customed before to any service at that hour. Saturday 4, in the evening I preached at Bath; Sunday 5, I read prayers, preached, and administered the sacrament to a large congregation : hut it was larger in the afternoon, and largest of all in the evening, when I opened and applied, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: and many were laid in the balance, and found wanting, even of those who had often appealed to this very rule. Wednesday 8, I preached at Kendalshire, where I do not remem ber to have been for nearly forty years. On the two following days, I preached at Chelten and Coleford. After preaching to an earnest congregation at Coleford, I met the society. They contained them selves pretty well, during the exhortation, but when I began to pray, the flame broke out. Many cried aloud : many sunk to the ground : many trembled exceedingly: but all seemed to be quite athirst for God, and penetrated by the presence of his power. Sunday 12, Dr. Coke read prayers, and I preached in the new room. Afterward I hastened to Kingswood, and preached under the shade of that double row of trees, which I planted about forty years ago. How little did any one then think that they would answer such an intention. The sun shone as hot as it used to do even in Georgia: but his rays could not pierce our canopy: and our Lord mean time shone upon many souls, and refreshed them that were weary. Monday 13, I visited one that was confined to her bed, and in much pain, yet unspeakably happy, rejoicing evermore, praying without ceasing, and in every thing giving thanks : yea, and testify- 140 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [OCT. 17S4. ing that she had enjoyed the same happiness, without any intermis sion, for two and twenty years. Tuesday 14, I preached at Bath and Bradford: Wednesday 15, at Trowbridge and Frome. Thursday 16, 1 went to Ditcheat, a village near Castle-Cary, where I found a friendly, hospitable family : I preached in the evening to a numerous and earnest congregation. Friday 17, the house would not contain half the people. Hence we passed through a delightful country to the Nunnery, a mere elegant trifle, near King Alfred's tower, a lofty, triangular building, standing in the highest part of the country, on the very spot, as is supposed, where he drew up his army against the Danes. About eleven I preached at Castle-Cary, to a quiet and attentive multitude. In the evening I preached at Shepton-Mallet, where the people at length know the day of their visitation. Saturday 18, I preached in the neat, cheerful church at Midsummer-Norton. Monday 20, Tuesday and Wednesday I met the classes, but found no increase in the society. No wonder, for discipline had been quite neglected ; and without this, little good" can be done among the Methodists. Thursday 23, 1 preached at Paulton about one, and at Pensford in the evening. The gentlemen at Chew-Magna having sent me word, " I was welcome to preach in the church," I went thither the next morning : but they now sent me word " they had changed their minds :" so I preached in our own preaching-house, on, If we let him alone, all men will believe on him. Thurday 30, I had a long conversation with John M'Geary, one of our American preachers, just come to England. He gave a pleas ing account of the work of God there, continually increasing, and vehemently importuned me to pay one more visit, to America before I die. Nay, I shall pay no more visits to new worlds, till I go to the world of spirits. Saturday, October 2, It pleased God once more to pour out his Spirit on the family at Kingswood. Many of the children were much affected : I talked particularly with some who desired to par take of the Lord's Supper. They did so the next morning. After wards I spent a little time with all the children ; and easily observed an uncommon awe resting upon them all. In the evening we renewed our covenant with God, in the new room at Bristol. It was supposed, we had a thousand communicants, and, I believe, none went empty away. Monday 4, 1 set out for London. About eleven I preached at the Devizes, and in the evening at Sarum. A grievous stumbling-block was lately thrown in the way of this people. A young gentlewo man, after being deeply convinced of sin, found peace with God in a glorious manner. She was unspeakably happy : but not long after, suddenly fell into black despair, and afterwards into melancholy madness, wherein she continued about two years. Here was an occasion of offence, for them that sought occasion, which they took care to improve. Wednesday 6, About eleven I preached at Winchester, and in the evening at Portsmouth-Common. Those who could not get in, at NOV. 1784.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 141 first made a little noise, but in a short time all was quiet. Thursday 7, 1 crossed over to the Isle of Wight. In the afternoon I preached at Newton, once the largest town in the isle ; but now not having six houses together. In the evening all the ministers, and most of the gentry at Newport attended the preaching. Who hath warned them to flee from the wrath to come? 0 may many bring forth fruit with patience ! Friday 8, we returned to Portsmouth-Com mon, and Saturday 9, to London. Monday 18, I set out for Oxfordshire, and in the evening preached at Wallingford. Tuesday 19, I spent an hour at Lord Harcourt's seat, near Nuneham, one of the pleasantest spots I have seen. It stands on a gently-rising hill, and commands a most delightful pros pect The rooms are not so grand as some, but elegant in the high est degree. So is also the front of the house, and what is called the flower garden, a small enclosure, surrounded by lofty trees, and filled with all the beauties that nature and art can give. The house at Oxford was thoroughly filled, and students as well as townsmen were deeply serious. Thursday 21, I preached at Witney, on As thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. We had a large congregation at five in the morning: at twelve I met the children, and was pleased to find that the impression which was made on them by the storm last year, is not yet worn out : and the whole society, still double to what it was, appears to be much in earnest. After preaching in the evening, I met the select society, and found many of them who for several years have lost nothing of what they had received, but do still love God with all their heart, and in consequence, rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing, and in every thing give thanks. Friday 22, I preached at High Wycombe about noon, and in the afternoon went on to London. Sunday 24, I preached at Shadwell church, which was exceedingly crowded with rich and poor, who all seemed to receive the truth in love. In the evening I took coach, and the next evening preached at Norwich: afterwards I ad vised the people to go away in silence ; and they did so ; neither man nor woman spoke till they were out of the house. The following days I visited the other societies in the Circuit, and on Monday, November 1, returned to London. Friday 6, We had a solemn watch-night. Saturday 6, I was an hour or two in conversation with that truly great man, Pascal Paoli; who is a tall, well-made, graceful man, about sixty years of age ; but he does not look to be above forty. He appears to have a real re gard for the public good, and much of the fear of God. He has a strong understanding, and seemed to be acquainted with every branch of polite literature. On my saying, " He had met with much the same treatment with that of an ancient lover of his country, Hanni bal :" he immediately answered, " But I have never yet met with a King of Bithynia." Monday 8, This week I visited the societies near London, a very heavy but necessary work. Thursday 18, I visited two persons in 142 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL, [DEC. 1784. » Newgate, who were under sentence of death : they seemed to be in an excellent temper, calmly resigned to the will of God. But how much stress can be reasonably laid on such impressions, it is hard to say. So often have I known them vanish away, as soon as ever the expectation of death was removed. Saturday 20, At three in the morning two or three men broke into our house, through the kitchen-window. Thence they came up into the parlour, and broke open Mr. Moore's bureau, where they found two or three pounds: the night before I had prevented his leaving there seventy pounds, which he had just received. They next broke open the cupboard, and took away some silver spoons. Just at this time the alarum which Mr. Moore, by mistake, had set for half past three, instead of four, went off, as it usually did, with a thundering noise. At this the thieves ran away with all speed, though their work was not half done; and the whole damage which we sustained, scarcely amounted to six pounds. Monday 22, I preached at Northampton, and on Tuesday 23, at Whittlebury. Here my servant was seized with a fever, attended with irruptions all over, as big as pepper-corns. I took knowledge of the prickley heat, as We called it in Georgia, termed by Dr. Hebur- den, the nettle rash, and assured him he would be well in four-and- twenty hours : he was so, and drove us on to Banbury, where, on Wednesday 24, I met with a hearty welcome from Mr. George, formerly a member of the London Society. The Presbyterian min ister offering me the use of his meeting, I willingly accepted his of fer. It was, I believe, eapable of containing nearly as many people as the chapel at West-street : but it would not nearly contain the congregation. And God uttered his voice, yea, and that a mighty voice : neither the sorrow, nor the joy, which was felt that night, will quickly be forgotten. Thursday 25, I desired the people would sit below in the morn ing, supposing not many would be present. But I was much mis taken ; notwithstanding the darkness and rain the house was filled both above and below : and never did I see a people who appeared more ready prepared for the Lord. Returning through Brackley, I was informed, that notice had been given of my preaching there at nine in the town-hall. So I began without delay : the congregation was large and attentive, but seemed to understand me no more than if I had been talking Greek. But the society seemed alive to God, and striving to enter in at the strait gate. In the evening I preached at poor, dead Towcester. But is not God able to raise the dead? There was a considerable shaking among the dry bones. And who knows but these dry bones may live. Friday 26, 1 returned to London. Sunday 28, 1 preached a chari ty-sermon at St. Paul's, Covent-Garden. It is the largest and the best constructed parish church that I have preached in for several years : yet some hundreds were obliged to go away, not being able to get in. I strongly enforced the necessity of that humble, gentle, patient love, which is the very essence of true religion. Monday 29, In tbe evening I preached at Hinxworth, in Miss »ec» 1784,] rev. john wesley's journal. 143 Harvey's new house. Tuesday 30, 1 visited my old friends at Bed ford, but found Mr. Hill was gone to rest, and Mr. Parker was just quivering on the verge of life : however, I rejoiced to find him clear ly possessed of that perfect love, which he had so long opposed. Wednesday, December 1, I preached at St. Neot's, to the largest congregation I ever saw there. And I know not that ever I saw them so affected. It seemed as if God touched all their hearts. Thursday 2, I preached about noon at Bugden ; and in the evening, to a crowded congregation at Binlington. I wondered that 1 saw nothing here of a young clergyman, who last year professed much love and esteem. But I soon heard, his eyes were opened to see the decrees. So he knows me no more ! Friday 3, Partly riding, and partly walking through wind and rain, and water and dirt, we got at last to Luton, where I found a large congregation, and we greatly rejoiced in God our Saviour. Saturday 4, I went on to London. Monday 6, I went to Tunbridge- Wells, but not without difficulty; part of the road being made scarcely passable, through the abundance of rain. I preached in the large Presbyterian meeting-house, but the violent rain thinned the congregation: yet, on Tuesday 7, we set out in a lovely morning; but, in about an hour, just as a pack of hounds came on in full cry, a furious storm of hail met them in the teeth, and utterly silenced them. It soon turned snow, which so covered the road, that we could scarcely get on, though we walked good part of the way : so that we could not get to Robertsbridge till after the time appointed. The snow likewise so retarded us in our journey to Rye, that, we were above an hour in the night. How ever, the house was well filled with serious hearers, so that I did not repent of my labour. Wednesday S, With great difficulty, with two pair of good horses, we got on fifteen miles in five hours: but we could not reach Seven oaks till the congregation had been long waiting. Thursday 9, going on toShoreham, we found that venerable man, Mr. Perronet, ninety- one years of age, calmly waiting for the conclusion of a good warfare. His bodily strength is gone, but his understanding is little impaired, and he appears to have more love than ever. After preaching to an earnest congregation in the evening, and to great part of them in the morning, I returned to London. Monday 13, and the two following days, I preached at Canterbury, Dover, and Sitlingbourn. Thursday 16, I went to Sheerness, where, Mr. Fox read prayers, and I preached on those words in the Second Lesson, If the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? I hardly ever spoke stronger words. May God make the application ! I never before found this society in such a state as they were now, being all, in general, athirst for God, and increasing in number as well as in grace. Friday 17, I preached at Chatham, where likewise I found only peace and love: and on Satur day 18, cheerfully returned to London. Monday 20, 1 went to Hinxworth, where I had the satisfaction of meeting Mr. Simeon, Fellow of King's-College in Cambridge. He vol. 4.— S 144 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL, [JAN. 1785. has spent some time with Mr. Fletcher at Madeley; two kindred souls; much resembling each other, both in fervour of spirit, and in the earnestness of their address. He gave me the pleasing informa tion, that there are three parish churches in Cambridge, wherein true, scriptural religion is preached, and several young gentlemen, who are happy partakers of it. I preached in the evening, on Gal. vi. 14. Tuesday 21, 1 spent a little time with the children at Miss Harvey's school, whom she like wise carefully instructs herself. After dinner we set out forWrest- lingworth : and having^a skilful guide, who rode before the chaise, and picked out the best way, we drove four miles in only three hours. Wednesday 22, 1 returned to London, and concluded my journies for the present year. Saturday 25, We met as usual in the new chapel at four : at ten, and in the afternoon, I preached in West-street ; and afterwards spent a comfortable hour in meeting the society. Sunday 26, 1 preached the condemned criminals' sermon in New gate : forty-seven were under sentence of death. While they were coming in, there was something very awful in the clink of their chains : but no sound was heard, either from them or the crowded audience, after the text was named. There is joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, that need not repentance. The power of the Lord was eminently present, and most of the prisoners were in tears. A few days after, twenty of them died at once, five of whom died in peace. I could not but greatly approve of the spirit and behaviour of Mr. Villette, the ordinary. And I rejoiced to hear, that it was the same on all similar occasions. Friday 31, We had a solemn watch-night, and ushered in the new year with the voice of praise and thanksgiving. Saturday, January 1, 1785, Whether this be the last or not, may it be the best year of my life ! Sunday 2, a larger number of people were present this evening, at the renewal of our covenant with God, than was ever seen before on the occasion. Tuesday 4, At this season we usually distribute coals and bread among the poor of the society. But I now considered they wanted clothes as well as food. So on this, and the four following days, I walked through the town, and begged two hundred pounds, in order to clothe them that wanted it most : but it was hard work, as most of the streets were filled with melting snow, which often lay ankle deep; so that my feet were steeped in snow-water nearly from morning till evening. I held it out pretty well till Saturday even ing, when I was laid up with a violent flux, which increased every hour, till at six in the morning, Dr. Whitehead called upon me. His first draught made me quite easy : and three or four more per- 'fected the" cure. If he live some years, I expect he will be one of "the most eminent physicians in Europe. I supposed my journeys this winter had been over ; but I could not decline one more. Monday 17, 1 set out for poor Colchester, tp '»: FEB. 1785.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 145 encourage the little flock. They had exceeding little of this world's goods, but most of them had a better portion. Tuesday 18, 1 went on to Mistleythorn, a village near Manning- tree. Some time since, one of the shipwrights of Deptford-yard, being sent hither to superintend the building of some men of war, began to read sermons on a Sunday evening in his own house. Af terwards he exhorted them a little, and then formed a little society. Some time after, he begged one of our preachers to come over and help them. I now found a lively society, and one of the most elegant congregations I had seen for many years : yet they seemed as will ing to be instructed as if they had lived in Kingswood. Wednesday 19, I returned to Colchester; and on Thursday 20, pieached to a lovely congregation at Purfleet ; and the next morning returned to London. Sunday 23, I preached morning and afternoon at West-street, and in the evening in the chapel at Knightsbride : I think it will be the last time ; for I know not that I have ever seen a worse behaved con gregation. Tuesday 25, 1 spent two or three hours in the House of Lords. I had frequently heard, that this was the most venerable assembly in England : but how was I disappointed ! What is a Lord, but a sin ner, born to die? Sunday 30, From those words, Righteous art thou, O Lord, and true are thy judgments, I endeavoured to point out those sins, which were the chief cause of that awful transaction we commemo rate this day : I believe the chief sin, which brought the King to the block, was his persecuting the real Christians. Hereby he drove them into the hands of designing men, which issued in his own de struction. Sunday, Feb. 6, We had a love-feast. I could not but observe the manner wherein several of them spoke, one after another. Not only the matter, but the language; the accent, the tone of voice, wherewith illiterate persons, men and women, young and old, spoke, were such as a scholar need not be ashamed of. Who teacheth like him ! Sunday 13, I met the single women, and exhorted them to con sider, to prize and to improve the advantages they enjoyed. On the following days I visited many of our poor, to see with my own eyes what their wants were, and how they might be effectually relieved. Sunday 20, 1 preached in Spitalfields church in the morning; and in the afternoon at St. Ethelburg's ; and in the evening at the new chapel. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I visited the resi due of the sick and poor. Friday 25, I received letters from the preachers, stewards, and leaders, at Plymouth-dock, informing me, that William Moore had renounced the Methodists, hired a place to preach in, and drawn away about forty of our members, to form a society for himself. They therefore begged I would come down as soon as possible, to quench the kindling fire. I saw no time was to be lost, and there fore immediately took places in the Exeter diligence. 146 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [MARCH, 1785. Sunday 27, 1 preached in Stepney church, one of the largest parish churches in England. Monday 28, the diligence reached Sarum about eight in the evening: about nine we left it. So keen a frost, I hardly ever felt before : and our carriage let in the air on all sides, so that we could hardly preserve life : however, soon after five on Tues day evening we got to Exeter. Wednesday, March 2, We went on to Plymouth-dock, and found all that we had heard confirmed : but I verily believe, we are better without William Moore, than with him, as his heart is not right with God. To quiet the minds of many well-meaning persons, I preached on those comfortable words, Even the hairs of your head are all num bered. And in the morning, on Despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him. Thursday 3, in the evening I read to the whole congregation, a plain state of the case, with regard to the Deed of Declaration, which William Moore had so wonderfully misrepresented ; and I believe they were fully satisfied. Friday 4, I took a walk through the Royal Hospital for sick and wounded sailors. I never saw any thing of the kind so complete: every part is so convenient, and so admirably neat. But there is no thing superfluous, and nothing purely ornamental, either within or without. There seems to be nothing wanting, but a man full of faith and zeal, to watch over the souls of the poor patients, and teach them to improve their affliction. In the evening I preached to a large congregation at Plymouth, and it pleased God to give me uncommon»liberty in describing the power of faith. What a blessed proof of this has there been here, since I was in the town before! Preaching at the dock in the evening, I besought all serious peo ple, not to grieve the Holy Spirit of God, but to put away all bitter ness and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking. I exhorted them in particular, not to talk about Mr. Moore at all, but to give him up to God. Sunday 6, I preached at the dock at seven : between one and two I began at Plymouth ; and as many as could get in seemed to be deeply affected with the application of those words, Go thy way, and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. In the afternoon I accepted of an invitation from Dr. Gench, the physician of the hospital, and passed an agreeable hour with a man of sense, and it seems, of considerable learning. At five I preached in the shell of the new house, on The form and power of godliness. In the evening I met the society once more, confirmed in the truth more than ever, and more determined to Walk in the good old way, wherein they had continued from the beginning. Monday 7, We had a pleasant journey to Exeter, and on Tuesday to Bath ; but the coach did not come in soon enough for me to preach tn the evening; nevertheless, we had a large congregation in the morning. Wednesday 9, this society too is much improved since I MARCH, 1785.] REV. JOHN WESLEY's JOURNAL. 147 was here last. Many stumbling-blocks are removed out of the way, and brotherly love is increased. After spending a day or two at Bristol, on Saturday 12, 1 returned to Bath, and preached to a numerous congregation. Great part of them were present again at six in the morning. Sunday 20, I went over to Kingswood, and preached the funeral sermon of Ann Noble, an old member of the society, who having adorned the gospel above forty years, died in the full triumph of faith. Monday 21, I set out early and dined at Stroud. The death of Mr. Willis, snatched away in the midst of his years, but a few days before, brought abundance of people to the preaching-house. . And most of them were deeply serious, so that we had a very solemn hour. Tuesday 22, I preached in Painswick at noon, and at six at the court-house at Gloucester. A multitude of people flocked together ; many of whom were of the better sort : and most of them appeared to be for the present, almost persuaded to be Christians. Wednesday 23, About eleven, I preached at Tewksbury, and in the evening at Worcester. Thursday 24, I breakfasted at Mrs. Price's, a Quaker, who keeps a boarding-school. I was much pleased with her children, so elegantly plain in their behaviour as well as apparel. I was led, I know not how, to speak to them largely ; then to pray. And we were all much comforted. The society is in great peace, and striving together for the hope of the gospel. I have not seen greater earnestness and simplicity in any society since we left London. I was now considering, how strangely the grain of mustard-seed, planted about fifty years ago, has grown up. It has spread through all Great-Britain and Ireland, the Isle of Wight and the Isle of Man ; then to America, from the Leeward Islands, through the whole Con tinent, into Canada and Newfoundland. And the societies in all these parts walk by one rule, knowing religion is holy tempers; and striving to worship God not in form only, but likewise in spirit and in truth. March 25, (Good-Friday) I hastened to reach Birmingham, before the church-service began. A sharper frost I never knew. But in deed our house was hot enough in the evening ; and I have not seen a more earnest people. Such an advantage it is, to be fully em ployed ! In every place we find labouring men most susceptible of religion. Such a blessing results from that curse, In the sioeat of thy brow thou shalt eat bread. Saturday 26, I had designed to rest; but notice had been given of my preaching at Quinton at noon. As the house would not hold the people, I was constrained, cold as it was, to preach abroad. , And they all seemed to feel that solemn question, How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation ? In the evening my heart was enlarged in such a manner as I have seldom known ; so that I detained the congregation considerably longer than I am accustomed to do ; and all the people seemed de termined to glorify God, with their body and their spirit. March 27, (Easter-Day) I preached at seven, on The Lord is rism- 148 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [APRIL, 1785. indeed, with an uncommon degree of freedom, and then met the local preachers, several of whom seemed to have caught the fashiona ble disease, Desire of Independency : they were at first very warm, but at length agreed to act by the rules laid down in the Minutes of the Conference. The weather now changed. Small rain fell some hours, and then turned into snow ; this made it very dirty : however, the poor people got through, and filled Darlaston church. Hence I returned to Wed nesbury ; but could not preach abroad, the ground being covered with snow : as many as could, crowded into the house. A love-feast followed, at which many plain people spoke without reserve. The artless propriety with which they spoke, must be truly astonishing to all who did not consider that promise, Ye shall be all taught of God. Monday 28, 1 preached a kind of funeral sermon, on Sarah Wood, one of the first members of the society. For above fifty years she adorned the gospel, being a pattern of all holiness. She was confined to her bed for several months. Being asked, If time did not hang on her hands ; she answered, " No, the Bible is my delight." " How can that be," said her friend, " when you cannot see ?" " Very well," said she, " for the Lord brings it to my remembrance." So, without doubt or fear, she delivered up her soul to her merciful and faithful Creator. About eleven I preached at Wolverhampton, and spent the after noon with the amiable family at Hilton- Park. Tuesday 29, at noon, I preached in the room at Stafford, to a deeply-affected congregation. This was the more strange, because there are few towns in England less infected with religion than Stafford. In the evening I preached at Newcastle, to a very serious and much affected congregation. Wednesday 30, We found a difficulty at Lane-End: even at noon the house contained not a third of the congregation : the wind was pierc ing cold: nevertheless I preached abroad; and God warmed our hearts. In the evening I was greatly comforted among our brethren at Burslem, well established in grace. And such another congrega tion I met with, Thursday 31, at Congleton. Friday, April 1, I came to Macclesfield, where Mr. Simpson had given notice of my preaching in his church. Here I fully delivered my own soul ; and on Saturday 2, went on to Manchester. Sunday 3, our brethren flocking in from all parts, the house, large as it is, could not contain them. It was supposed we had twelve hundred communicants. Monday 4, I preached to our old, loving congregation at Bolton. Tuesday 5, at noon, I preached at Wingate, in the open air : the con gregation were quite ripe for all the gospel blessings, devouring every word. In the evening I preached at Wigan. I never before saw this preaching-house full: but it was more than full to-night; and with deeply attentive hearers. Wednesday 6, I preached at Liverpool ; but I found no ship there ready to sail ; so, Thursday 7, (after preaching at Warrington in the way) I hastened to Chester. Neither was there any ship at Park- APRIL, 1785.] REV. john wesley's JOUHNAL. 149 gate ready to sail ; so Friday 8, we took coach, and reached Holy head between four and five on Saturday in the afternoon. Between nine and ten we went on board the Clermont packet; but it was a dead calm, till past ten on Sunday 19, when the company desired me to give them a sermon. After sermon, I prayed that God would give us a full and speedy passage; while I was speaking, the wind sprung up, and in twelve hours brought us to Dublin-Bay. Does not our Lord still hear prayer? I found such a resting place at our own house, as I never found in Ireland before, and two such preach ers, with two such wives, I know not where to find again. In the evening, and so every evening beside, we had Sunday evening con gregations. And in the morning they were larger by a third part, than those I had, when I was here last. On Tuesday and the three following days I examined the society : I never found it in such a state before : many of them rejoiced in God their Saviour, and were as plain in their apparel, both men and wo men, as those in Bristol and London. Many, I verily believe, love God with all their hearts ; and the number of these increases daily. The number of the whole society is seven hundred and forty-seven. Above three hundred of these have been added in a few months : a new and unexpected thing ! In various places indeed we have fre quently felt " The overwhelming power of saving grace ;' which acted almost irresistibly. But such a shower of grace never continued long ; and afterwards men might resist the Holy Ghost as before. When the general ferment subsides, every one that partook of it, has his trial for life. And the higher the flood, the lower will be the ebb; yea, the more swiftlyT it rose, the more swiftly it falls. So that if we see this here, we should not be discouraged. We should only use all diligence, to encourage as many as possible, to press forward, in spite of all the refluent tide. Now especially we should warn one another, not to grow weary or faint in our minds : if happily we may see such another prodigy as the late one at Paulton near Bath. Where there was a very swift work of God, and yet a year after, out of a hundred converted, there was not one backslider! The number of children that are clearly converted to God is par ticularly remarkable. Thirteen or fourteen little maidens in one class, are rejoicing in God their Saviour. And are as serious and stayed in their whole behaviour, as if they were thirty or forty years old. I have much hope, that half of them will be steadfast in the grace of God which they now enjoy. Sunday 17, We had such a number of communicants at the cathe dral, as was scarcely ever seen before- In the evening many were cut to the heart ; and I believe not a few comforted. A love-feast followed ; at which many spoke what God had done for their souls, with all plainness and simplicity. Monday 18, I went through a delightful country to Prosperous, a little town begun five years ago, by Captain Brooke, just returned from the East-Indies. Here he introduced every branch of the cot ton manufactory) on a most extensive plan. He built two rows of 150 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [APRIL, 1785. commodious houses, with all convenient appurtenances. And he now employs about two thousand men, women, and children, on the spot, beside nearly the same number in other places. They had a very large room, but not nearly large enough for the congregation. All that got in, seemed much affected, as they did likewise at five in the morning. About fifty of them are already joined in a society. Fair blossoms! But what will the fruit be? A remarkable circumstance, we were informed, occurred near this place, about three weeks before. A poor woman, who owed her landlord fourteen pounds, scraped seven together, which she brought him. But he absolutely refused to take less than the whole, yet de tained her in talk till the evening. She then set out on a car. When she was within a mile of home, she overtook a soldier, who said he was exceedingly tired, and earnestly entreated her, to let him ride with her on the car, to which she at length consented. When they came to her house, finding there was no town within two miles, he begged he might sit by the fire-side till morning. She told him, she durst not suffer it, as her's was a lone house, and there was none in it but her self and her girl ; but at last, she agreed, he should lie in the girl's bed, and she and the girl would lie together. At midnight two men, who had blackened their faces, broke into the house, and demanded her money. She said, " Then let me go into the next room and fetch it." Going in, she said to the soldier, " You have requited me well for my kindness, by bringing your comrades to rob my house." He asked, " Where are they ?" She said, " In the next room." He started up and ran thither. The men ran away with all speed. He fired after them, and shot one dead ; who being examined, appeared to be her landlord? So that a soldier was sent to protect an inno cent woman, and punish an hardened villain ! Thursday 19, I preached at ten, to an uncommonly large and seri ous congregation at Eden-derry. In the evening I preached at Tyr- rel's-pass, where a small, dead society is all that now remains. Such another I found at Coolylough on Wednesday 20. Thursday 21, going to Athlone, I found the scene entirely changed : there has not been for many years so much life in the society. Many of the old, dead members are quickened again. Many are added to them ; and there is no jar of any kind among them : they provoke one another only to love and to good works. Friday 22, It is just seven years since I was here before; and I find little change in many, only that they are more dead to the world, and consequently more alive to God. And for a few that have left them, God has given them double, that are either alive to God, or athirst for him. Sunday 24, In the afternoon I preached at the east end of the market-house. I scarcely ever saw so numerous a congregation at Athlone ; and all were attentive : not a word was heard, and scarcely any motion was to be seen. I trust the seed now sown will not wither away, but grow up into everlasting life. Monday 25, Being desired to preach at Ballinasloe, in my way to Aughrim, I stood about eleven in the shade of a large1 house, and MAY, 1785.] REV. JOHX WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 151 preached to a numerous congregation of Papists and Protestants equally attentive, on The Kingdom of God is at hand. As I entered Aughrim, the rector, who was waiting at his gate, welcomed me into the country, and desired me to use his church, both now and whenever I pleased : I preached there at six. It was thoroughly filled with well- behaved hearers ; but the society, here as well as that at TyrrePs-Pass, is well nigh shrunk into nothing ! Such is the baleful influence of riches ! The same effect we find in every place. The more men in crease in goods, (very few excepted) the more they decrease in grace. Tuesday 26, 1 went on to Eyre-court. Here also the minister gave me the use of his church ; but the people seemed to understand little of the matter. As I had not this privilege at Birr, I went to the square, where the owner of a large house invited me to preach before it. The congregation was exceedingly large ; but many of them wild as colts untamed ; however, the far greater part of them were seriously atten tive. I am in hopes the work of God will revive here also ; the rather because he has fully restored one of the most eminent backsliders in the kingdom. When I came to Tullamore, the minister was willing that I should preach in the church ; where both the soldiers and all the officers at tended. And our great Captain was present also. Thursday 28, 1 supposed the house at Portarlington would have more than contained the congregation ; but it would scarcely contain a third part of them. So I removed to the market-house, and preached on the general judgment. The word was quick and powerful, so that very few appeared to be unaffected. In the evening I preached in the church at Mount Mellick. Per haps such a congregation was never there before : but the greater part of them seemed to be of Gallio's mind, to care for none of these things. Friday 29, I preached in our own house at Kilkenny, to just such another congregation : but those that attended in the morning were of a nobler spirit, and I found uncommon liberty among them. Satur day 30, I preached at Waterford in the court-house, one of the largest in the kingdom. A multitude of people quickly ran together, which occasioned some tumult at first ; but it was quickly over, and all were deeply attentive. Surely God will have much people in this city. Sunday, May 1, at eight I preached in the court-house to a larger congregation than before. At eleven I went to the cathedral, one of the most elegant churches in Ireland. The whole service was per formed with the utmost solemnity. After service, the senior prebend, Dr. Fall, invited me to dinner, and desired, " when I came again, I would take a bed at his house." I doubt, that will never be ! At four I preached at the head of the Mall, to a Moorfield's congre gation, all quiet and attentive. Monday 2, the congregation at five in the morning was larger than that on Saturday evening ; and all of them appeared to have (for the present at least) a real concern for their sal vation : G that it may not pass away as the morning dew ! I took a vol. 4— T 152 REV. JOHN wesley's journal. [may, 1785. solemn farewell of this affectionate people, concluding with those . awful words : " Now on the brink of death we stand ; - And if I pass before ; . - You all may safe escape to land, And hail me on the shore." Tuesday 3, We set out for Dungarvan-ferry ; but in spite of all the speed we could make, the road was so horrible that we could not reach Youghall before six in the evening : at seven, the court-house was filled from end to end. And such was the attention of all, high and low, that 1 hope many of them will bring forth fruit to perfection. Wednesday 4, At five in the morning the court-house was thoroughly filled : so in the evening I preached in the Mall ; where the congrega tion was much the same as the last at Waterford ; only that they were in general Protestants, as are most in the town ; who are also some of the most courteous and quiet people in the kingdom. Thursday 5, Before I came half way to Cork, I was met by about thirty horsemen. We dined at Middleton, and then rode on through a pleasant, well cultivated country to Cork. In the evening, many in the crowded congregation were much comforted. Friday 6, I made an exact inquiry into the state of the society. I found the number was about four hundred, many of whom were greatly in earnest. Many children, ehiefly girls, were indisputably justified ; some of them were likewise sanctified, and were patterns of all holiness. But how shall we keep up the flame that is now kindled not only in Cork, but in many parts of the nation? Not by sitting still, but by stir ring up the gift of God that is in them ; by uninterruptedwatchfulness ; by warning every one and exhorting every one ; by besieging the throne with all the powers of prayer ; and, after all, some will, and some will not improve the grace which they have received : therefore, there must be a falling away ; we are not to be discouraged at this, but to do all that in us lies to-day, leaving the morrow to God. Saturday 7, On this day, that venerable saint, Mr. Perronet, desired his grand-daughter, Miss Briggs, who attended him day and night, to go out into the garden, and take a little air. He was reading and hearing her read the three last chapters of Isaiah. When she returned he was in a kind of ecstacy, the tears running down his cheeks, from a deep sense of the glprious things which were shortly to come to pass. He continued unspeakably happy that day, and on Sunday was, if possible, happier still : and indeed heaven seemed to be as it were opened to all that were round about him. When he was in bed, she went into his room to see if any thing was wanting; and, as she stood at the feet of the bed, he smiled and broke out, " God bless thee, my dear child, and all that belong to thee. Yea, he will bless thee !" which he ear* nestly repeated many times, till she left the room. When she went in the next morning, Monday 9, his spirit was returned to God. So ended the holy and happy life of Mr. Vincent Perronet, in the ninety-second year of his age. I follow hard after him in years, may, 1785.] rev. john Wesley's journal. 153 being now in the eighty-second year of my age. O that I may follow him in holiness : and that my last end may be like his ! Sunday 8, In the afternoon I stood in the vacant space near tho preaching-house, capable of containing many thousands. An immense number assembled : there was no diturbance : the days of tumult here are over; and God has now, of a long season, made our enemies to be at peace with us. Monday 9, About noon I preached at Kinsale, in the old Bowling- green, which lies on the top of the hill, and commands a large pros pect, both by sea and land. All behaved well, but a few officers, who walked up and down, and talked together during the whole service. The poor in Ireland in general are well behaved : all the ill-breeding is among well-dressed people : In the evening I preached in the main street at Bandon, to a very numerous congregation ; but some of them were better clothed than taught, for they laughed and talked great part of the time. Such a transaction occurred here last week, as has not occurred this century. A soldier Walking over the bridge, met a countryman, and, taking a fancy to his stick, strove to wrench it from him ; his com^ panion knocked the soldier down : news of this being carried to the bar racks, a whole troop of soldiers marched down, and, without any provo cation, fell upon the countrymen coming into the town, pursued them into the houses where they fled [for shelter, and hacked and hewed them without mercy : two-and-forty were wounded, several maimed^ and two killed on the spot. Wednesday II, I returned from Bandon to Cork, and, after en deavouring to confirm those that were much alive to God, on Friday 13, with some difficulty, I broke loose from my affectionate friends, and in two long stages reached Kilfinane. It being too stormy to preach abroad, I preached in the assembly room : all the hearers were serious and well-behaved. I trust some will bring forth fruit with patience. Afterwards I took a survey of the Danish mount near the town, the first I have seen surrounded with a triple ditch : but it is not either so high or so large as that near Dundee. Is it not strange, that the Irish, as well as the Scots, should so soon have driven out those merciless robbers, who defied all the strength of England for so long a time ? Saturday 14, 1 found a far greater curiosity, a large Druidical temple, I judged by my eye, that it was not less than a hundred yards in diame ter : and it was, if I remember right, full as entire as Stone-Henge, or that at Stanton-Drue. How our ancestors could bring, or even heave, these enormous stones, what modern can comprehend ! In the evening we found many of our old friends at Limerick were removed to Abraham's bosom. Sunday 15, (Whitsunday) the service at the cathedral began at eleven, and lasted till three. It concluded a little sooner, by my assisting at the Lord's-Supper, at the request of the clergymen. Between five and six I took my stand near the custom house, amidst an innumerable multitude of people ; but they were 15* REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [.MAY, 178S". " Wild as the unta light Indian's brood." They made such a wonderful noise, that 1 judged it best to give them the ground and retire to our own house. Monday 16, 1 restored the select society, which had been quite neglected. In the evening I earnestly exhorted all our brethren, to set out again in the good old way, and to run, with patience, the race that is set before them. Tuesday 17, In my way to Gort, I was met by some of our brethren of Killchrist, a village eight miles beyond it, giving me an invitation from Colonel Pearse, to lodge at his house. He sent me to Killchrist, in one of his own carriages. There I found a large number of plain people, to whom I preached in the yard. Thence I returned to the Colonel's, but the house being full of genteel company, I was out of my element, there being no room to talk upon the only subject which deserves the attention of a rational creature. Wednesday 18, Learning that a little girl had sat up all ttight, and then walked two miles to see me, I took her into the chaise, and was surprised to find her continually rejoicing in God. The person, with whom the preachers lodge, informed me, that she had been two years possessed of his pure love. We breakfasted at Athenry, once a popu lous city: but now Seges est, ubi Troga fuit. In the afternoon we went on to Ballinrobe, Having heard a remarkable account of the Charter-school here, I resolved to see it with my own eyes : I went thither about five in the afternoon, but found no master nor mistress. Seven or eight boys, and nine or ten girls (the rest being rambling abroad) dirty and ragged enough, were left to the care of a girl half the head taller than the rest. She led us through the house. I observed first the school-room, not much bigger than a small closet. Twenty children could not be taught there at once, with any convenience ; when we came into the bed chamber, I inquired, " How many children now lodge in the house :" and was answered, "fourteen or fifteen boys, and nineteen girls." For these boys there, were three beds, and five for the nineteen girls. For food I was informed, the master was allowed a penny farthing a day for each ! Thus they are clothed, lodged, and fed ! But what are they taught ? As far as 1 could learn, just nothing ! Of these things I informed the commissioners for these schools in Dublin : but I do not hear of any alteration. If this be a sample of the Irish charter- schools, what good can we expect from them ? In my way from Limerick hither, I read, and carefully considered, Major Valiancy's Irish Grammar, allowed to be the best extant. And, supposing him to give a true account of the Irish language, it is not only beyond all comparison worse than any ancient language I know anything of, but below English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, or any other modern language . The difficulty of reading it is intolerable,, occasioned chiefly by the insufferable number of. mute letters, both of vowels and consonants ; the like of which is not to be found in any language under heaven. The number of pronouns, and the irregular formation, of the verbs, is equally insufferable. But nothing is so may, 1785.] Uev. joun wesley's journal. 155 insufferable as their poetry ; the whole construction of which is so trifling and childish, and yet requires more pains to write than either the modern rhyme Or the ancient attention to long and short syllables ! Friday 20s I went on to Castlebar. Here I generally find a wel come reception. Almost all the inhabitants here love us well, and believe the Methodists are good men. Saturday 21, Mr. Browne of Relins, about three miles from Castle bar, invited us to his house. It is one of the pleasantest places I have seen in the kingdom ; but it was not so pleasant as when I was there first. For his lovely wife, and an amiable daughter, are both gone into a better country. Sunday 22, (Trinity-Sunday,) I preached in the morning, on TAere are three that bear record in heaven. The congregation at church was remarkably well-behaved ; and the rector preached a sound, useful sermon. At five I preached to an exceedingly numerous congregation, and afterwards administered the sacrament to the society. Two clergymen were with us, the curate of Castlebar, and the curate of a neighbouring parish ; one of whom already enjoys the peace of God, and the other was earnestly seeking it. Monday 23, After a long day's journey, I preached in the new court house at Sligo, to far the worst congregation that I have seen since I came into the kingdom. Some (miscalled gentry) laughed and talked without fear or shame till I openly reproved them. And the rabble were equally rude near the door. In the morning I preached in our own preaching-house, chiefly for the sake of Mrs. Simpson, a mother in Israel, who has been long confined to her room. Walking about noon I was catched in a heavy shower, and contracted a severe cold : however I preached in the evening to a far civiller congregation than the night before. So I think my labour here was not quite in vain. Wednesday 25, I preached about ten in the court-house at Manor- Hamilton, and then rode over the Black-Mountain, now clothed with green, and through a delightful road| to Florence-court. Here I ob served the parti-coloured gates (as they were some years since) to be painted plain red. The wind was high and piercingly cold ; yet the multitude of people obliged me to preach in the open air. Thursday 26, I preached in the assembly-room at Swadlingbar, but not without difficulty, my cold being so increased, that I could not sing, nor speak, but just in one key : however, I made shift to preach in the church at Balliconnel in the evening, though it was very full, and con sequently very hot. Friday 27, feeling myself much as I was eleven years ago, and not knowing how short my time of working might be, I resolved to do a little while I could. So I began at five, and though I could scarcely be heard at first, yet the more I spoke, the more my voice was strengthened. Before I had half done every one could hear. To God be all the glory ! About ten I preached at Killishandra, to a multitude of people ; but my voice was now so strengthened that every one could hear. In the evening, there being no house at Killmore that could contain half the congregation, I was obliged again to preach abroad. There were several 156 REV. JOHN wesley's JOURNAL. £f*AY, 1785. sharp showers, but none went away ; for it pleased the Lord to send therewith gracious rain on the souls of them that feared him. Saturday 28, At five, though I had not quite recovered my voice, I judged it best to speak as -I could : so I preached in Mr. Creighton's barn, and at seven in the ball-room at Cavan. I had designed togo straight from hence to Clones, but a friend sending me. word, that Mr. Sanderson was willing I should preach in his church at Ballihays, I al tered my purpose and went thither. Abundance of people were waiting for me :• but Mr. Sanderson having changed his mind, I preached in the inn-yard to a very well-behaved congregation of rich as well as poor. Hence I went on to Clones, where I found such a society as I had hardly seen in Ireland, making it a point of conscience to conform to all our rules, great and small. The new preaching-house was ex ceedingly neat, but far too small to contain the congregation. The first time I preached to-day, was with difficulty; the second and third, with less ; the fourth, with none at all. Sunday 29, The morning service, so called, began between twelve and one. At five the storm was so high that I could not preach in the market-place, as I first designed. At length we pitched upon a sloping meadow near the town, where we were perfectly sheltered by the bill. I supposed the congregation would have filled the house at Dublin more than twice over. We had several showers ; but the people regarded them not, being wholly taken up with better things. Monday 30, We went on to Caledon. A convenient preaching- house is just built here, which, after the forms were removed, just con tained the congregation. The power of God was very unusually pre sent among them. Many were cut to the heart, and refused to be comforted, till God spoke peace to their souls. And many did already rejoice with joy unspeakable. When we came to Armagh on Tuesday, the wind was extremely high, and the air as cold as it used to be in December : however, we had no place that could contain the congregation, but Mr. M'Gough's avenue. And here the people crowding close together, did not seem to regard either cold or wind. Tuesday 31, We took a walk to the primate's palace, and had,a full view of the house. It is elegant in the highest degree, and yet not splendid ; and it is furnished throughout in a handsome, though, not in a costly, manner. Since I was here before, he has added an obelisk an hundred feet high, and a dairy-house, with many other conveniences, and a chapel, never yet used! But we were informed, "He designs to do many things more !" How well then may it be said to him, " Tu secanda marmora Locas sub ipsum funus, et sepulchri Immemor, struis domos 1" At eleven I preached in the Avenue again. It rained all the time, yet the congregation was large and attentive. Afterwards a decent woman, whom I never saw, either before or since, desired to speak with JUNE, 1785.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 157 me, and said, " I met you at Caledon. I had then a violent pain in my head for four weeks ; but was fully persuaded I should be well if you would lay your hand on my cheek, which I begged you to do. From that moment I have been perfectly well." If so, give God the glory. In the evening the rain drove us into the market-house, where we were a little disturbed by two or three drunken men. But all the rest (a numerous congregation) bahaved with deep seriousness. Wednesday, June 1, I took my leave of my coeval Mr. M'Gough, whom I scarcely expect to see again in this world. About ten I preached at Blackwater town, in Mr. Roe's Yard, to a large and ele gant congregation ; and in the evening to a larger still, at the side of the fort at Charlemount. Mrs. T. was an unspeakable blessing to this town, while Mr. T. was stationed there. And the revival of religion, which began then, has been increasing ever since. In the road to and from Charlemount, I had a good deal of conver sation with that amiable woman, Mrs. R. God has indeed dealt very mercifully with her, and her soul is at present much alive. I have great hopes, that she and her lovely family will be patterns to all that are round about them. Thursday 2, 1 went to Mr. Caulfield's, the rector of Killeman, three miles from Charlemount. His house is agreeably situated, at the head of a beautiful avenue, in which I preached to a very numerous con gregation, most of whom seemed to be deeply affected. I sent my horses on to Mr. Cook's town, ten Irish miles, Mr. Caulfield sending me thither, Friday 3, with a pair of hisl At ten I preached there, and then hastened forward, but I could not reach Londonderry before seven. We then found, notwithstanding they had but short notice, a congregation gathered from all parts. The society here has not been so well established for many years as it is now. What is principally wanting is zeal for God, and entire self-devotion to him. Sunday 5, At eight I strongly applied the latter part of the thirteenth chapter to the Romans. We had a very decent congregation at Church, but not so many communicants as I expected. At six, our room was thoroughly filled with as serious hearers as ever I saw, Monday 6, we had a numerous congregation in the morning, of rich, as well as poor. But who is able effectually to warn these, to flee from the wrath to come ? At eleven I preached in an open place at Newtown, sixteen miles from Londonderry. In the evening we had at Colerain a larger con gregation than at Clones itself : and they seemed a more intelligent people than most I have met with : indeed, the whole town is different from all that I have seen. There is no hurry or noise, but all quiet and still, both by day arid by night : so that no wonder so many here re ceive the gospel of peace, and bring forth fruit unto perfection. Tuesday 7, I accepted the offer of the Presbyterian meeting, and preached there at noon and at six in the evening. Wednesday 8,jafler preaching in the morning, I left many of the loving people in tears, and went on to Ballimoney, where I preached in the court-house to a very civil and a very dull congregation. From hence we went to Ballimeiia. 158 kev. john wesley's journal. [june, 1785. In the afternoon I walked over to Gracehill, the Moravian settlement ; beside many little houses for them that are married, they have three large buildings, (on the same plan with that at Fulneck) having the chapel in the middle, the house for the single men on the left hand, and that for the single women on the right. We spent one or two agreeable hours in seeing the several rooms. Nothing can exceed the neatness of the rooms, or the courtesy of the inhabitants ; but if they have most courtesy, we have more love. We do not suffer a stranger, especially a Christian brother to visit us, without asking him either " to bite or sup." " But it is their way." I am sorry to say, so it is. When I called on Bishop Antone in Holland, an old acquaintance, whom I had not seen for six-and-forty years, till both he and I were grown gray- beaded ; he did not ask me so much as to wet my lips ! Is not this a shameful way ? A way, contrary not only to Christianity, but to com mon" humanity? Is it not a way that a Jew, a Mahometan, yea, an honest heathen would be ashamed of ? Having now finished an ingenious book, "Le Vrayer's Animadver sions on the Ancient Historians^' I thought a few passages worth tran scribing, as containing some uncommon remarks. He says more for the veracity of Herodotus than ever I saw before, and convinces me that his authority is more to be relied on than that of Polybius, who, " contrary to the truth of history, makes Scipio an example of Conti nence, in giving up the fair captive to the Spanish Prince; whereas, in fact, he never would nor did restore her to her husband." " There is not a more incredible relation in all the Roman History, than that Clelia and all the Roman Virgins, who were hostages to the Hetrurians, swam over the river Tyber to Rome. Surely they would scarcely have dared to look upon so rapid a river, much less to plunge into it ! Especially when there was no necessity, for the peace was then almost concluded. " Some writers affirm, and it is earnestly believed, that Belisarius was reduced to beggary; but it is a mere fable : on the contrary, the Empe ror Justinian heaped titles and honours upon him to the last ; although he recalled him out of Italy, after he had been defeated there by the French. Procopius, who wrote largely concerning him, says not one word of his being reduced to poverty." Thursday 9, Between nine and ten I preached in the court-house at Antrim, to a large, staring congregation. Thence we went on to Bel fast, through miserable roads. At six I preached in the Linen-hall, to a large congregation, admirably well-behaved. I often wonder, that among so civil people, we can do but little good ! Friday 10, we came to Downpatrick, where the preaching-house being too small, we repaired, as usual to the grove, a most lovely plain, very near the venerable ruins of the cathedral : the congregation was as large as that at Belfast, but abundantly more awakened. The people in general were remarkably affectionate ; they filled the large preaching-house at five in the morning; and we seemed to be as closely united with them, as with one of our old societies in England. About eleven on Saturday I preached in the Linen-hall at Ballini- JUNE, 1785.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 159 hanch, to a numerous congregation. The country from hence to Lis burn is wonderfully pleasant and fruitful. At six I preached in the Presbyterian-meeting, a large and commodious building. And I was now with the most lively society that I have seen for many days ; owing chiefly to the good providence of God bringing sister Johnson hither. She came indeed in an acceptable time , for J — W — and his wife, who for many years had been pillars, had left the society. They had one child, a son, about nineteen years old, of whom they were fond enough : by a fall from his horse he was killed in a moment, leaving his parents inconsolable; just then she came to Lisburn, and visited them. God opened her mouth both in exhortation and prayer. They saw and acknowledged his hand. She was enabled" to give up her child to God ; he cried out, " Surely God has sent an angel from heaven to comfort us !" Both of them joined the society, and are more in earnest for salvation than they have been for many years. Sunday 1 2, We had a solemn opportunity in the morning. In the afternoon, as no building could contain the people, I stood abroad and proclaimed, There is joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons who need not repentance. The hearers (allowing five persons to a square yard) were seven or eight thousand. At eleven I preached in the church-yard at Lurgan. The sun shone extremely hot ; but we were sheltered from it, partly by the church, and partly by the spreading trees. In the afternoon I went on to Tandragee,oneof the pleasantest towns in Ireland, surrounded by woods and fruitful hills, with a clear river running between them. At six I stood in the grove, where the tall elms shaded both me and the nu merous congregation : several gentlemen and clergymen were among them ; and all behaved with serious attention. I lodged at the Rev. Dr. L 's, where my time seemed exceed ingly short. Wednesday 15, the scene changed from a palace to a cottage at Derry-Anvil, a small village, surrounded by a bog, but in habited by lively Christians. About eleven I preached in a sandy orchard, to an exceedingly large congregation ; in the evening, to a still larger at the Grange, a small village on the top of a hill. Many showers went to the right and the left, while I was preaching ; but only a few drops fell upon us. Thursday 16, About eight I preached at Rich-hill, where there were many backsliders, on How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? In the afternoon I came to Newry, where I never before had any tolerable place to preach in : but the Presbyterians now offered me the use of their large and handsome meeting-house ; perhaps it never was filled before. I believe the occasion required me to speak very plainly, which I did from Elijah's question, How long halt ye between two opin ions ? And I applied it to the conscience of each person, rich and poor, with all possible plainness. Friday 17, Many of our friends from Dublin gave us the meeting at Drogheda, a large handsome town, which seemed to me to be little in ferior to Waterford. After much opposition, a small society is formed vol. 4 — IT 160 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JULY, 1785. here. I preached in the Sessions-house, a large commodious room, which was quickly filled with rich and poor. The mayor himself, and several of the aldermen, took care that none should make any disturb ance. God gave us an exceedingly solemn season. After sermon I gave a short account of the rise of Methodism. I believe all were so satisfied that there will scarcely be any more persecution of the Methodists at Drogheda. Saturday 18, Having visited all the places I proposed, I came back to Dublin, just as well as I set out, my strength having been as my day- Sunday 19, 1 exhorted a crowded audience to bring forth fruits meet for repentance ; and afterwards pressed the exhortation on our own society. Monday 20, I visited one ill of a violent fever, and calmly triumph ing over sickness, pain, and death. In the evening I received a letter from a physician, whom the next morning I carried to see her : he tho roughly understood her case. And from the day she followed his pre scription, she began to recover. I feared very many of the society would be lost before my return : but I found only three ; so that seven hundred and thirty-seven of them remained. Wednesday 22, I went with twelve or fourteen of our friends on the canal to Prosperous. It is a most elegant way of travelling, little inferior to that of the track-skaits in Holland. We had fifty or sixty persons in the boat, many of whom desired me to give them a sermon : I did so, and they were all attention. In the evening I preached at Prosperous, to a numerous congregation, on the General Judgment. After preaching at five in the morning, Thursday 23, I took boat with a larger company than before, who, about eleven, desired me to preach ; for which they appeared to be exceedingly thankful. Tuesday 28, By the good providence Of God, I finished the eighty-. second year of my age. Is any thing too hard for God ? It is now eleven years since I have felt any such thing as weariness. Many times I speak till my voice fails, and I can speak no longer. Frequently I walk till my strength fails, and I can walk no farther : yet, even then, I feel no sensation of weariness ; but am perfectly easy from head to foot. I dare not impute this to natural causes. It is the will of God. Friday, July 1, Most of our travelling preachers met, to confer together on the things of God : we began and ended in much peace and love, being all resolved, not do the work of the Lord so lightly. Sunday 3, we had a larger congregation than ever at St. Patrick's, where many of our brethren found such a blessing, that they will not easily be so prejudiced against the church, as they were in time past. Wednesday 6, We concluded our Conference. I remember few such Conferences, either in England or Ireland ; so perfectly unani mous were all the preachers, and so determined to give themselves up to God. Sunday 10, I went on board the Prince of Wales, one of the neatest ships I ever was in. We left the work of God increasing in every part of the kingdom more than it has done for many years. About two in the morning we sailed out of Dublin-Bay, and came into Holy head-Bay before one in the afternoon on Mondav 1 1 : that evening At7G. 1785.J REV. JOHN wesley's journal. Ibf we went ontoGwendy; Tuesday 12, to Kimmel, one of the plea santest inns in Wales ; surrounded with gardens and stately woods, which their late proprietor must see no more ! Wednesday 13, we reached Chester. After preaching there between five and six in the evening, I stepped into the stage-coach, which was just setting out, and travelling day and night, was brought safe to London on Friday 15, in the afternoon. Sunday 17, I preached both morning and evening on the education of children. I now spoke chiefly to the parents, in forming, them that 1 designed to speak to the children at five the next morning, Monday 18, At five, not only the morning chapel was well filled, but many stood in the large chapel ; I trust they did not come in vain. The rest of the week I was fully employed in writing for the Maga zine, and preparing for the Conference. Sunday 24, I preached at West-street, morning' and afternoon : when both the largeness and earnestness of the congregation gave me a comfortable hope of a blessing at the ensuing Conference. Tuesday 26, our Conference be gan, at which about seventy preachers were present whom I had in vited by name. One consequence of this was, that we had no con tention or altercation at all, but every thing proposed was calmly con sidered, and determined as we judged would be most for the glory of God. Monday, August 1, Having, with a few select friends, weighed the matter thoroughly, I yielded to their judgment, and set apart three of our well-tried preachers, John Pawson, Thomas Hanby, and Joseph Taylor, to minister in Scotland. And I trust God will bless their minis trations, and show that he has sent them. Wednesday 3, our peaceful Conference ended, the God of power having presided over all our consultations. Sunday 7, After preaching in the morning at West-street, and in the afternoon at the new chapel, 1 took a solemn leave of the society ; and on Monday 8, went in the Diligence to Portsmouth Common. Here I found a lively, and consequently an increasing society. Tues day 9, I crossed over to the Isle of Wight : here also the work of God prospers : we had a comfortable time at Newport, where is a very teachable, though uncommonly elegant, congregation. Wednesday 10, we took a walk to the poor remains of Carisbrook-castle. It seems to have been once exceedingly strong, standing on a steep as cent ; but even ivhat little of it is left, is now swiftly running to ruin. The window indeed through which King Charles attempted to make his escape is still in being, and brought to my mind that whole train of occurrences, wherein the hand of God was so eminently seen. Thursday 1 1, About noon I preached in a little court, in the town of Portsmouth. The people were all attention: so there was a much larger congregation in the evening, in St. George's-square. Surely, after all the stumbling-blocks which have been thrown in the way, God will have many souls in this place. Friday 12, 1 preached at Winchester ; and on Saturday 13, went on to Salisbury. As Captain Webb had just been 'shere, I endeavoured 162 RLV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [AUG. 17&5. to avail myself of the fire which he seldom fails to kindle. The con gregation in the evening was very large, and seemed to be deeply affect ed ; so they did again at eight on Sunday morning, but I believe the greatest blessing was in the evening; particularly during the prayer, wherein God was pleased to move many in an uncommon manner. Monday 15, I preached in Shaftsbury at nine, to such a congrega tion as I had not seen there before. I was glad to see among them the gentleman who, thirty years ago, sent his officer to discharge me from preaching in his borough. About two I preached at Castle-Cary, to as many as could well hear. And I believe there were very few who did not feel that God was with us. In the evening I preached at Shepton-Mallet, but the house would not near contain the congregation. For many years this society was remarkably dead ; but it is now one of the liveliest in England. Tuesday 16, We went on to Taunton, where I expected little good ; but I was agreeably disappointed : the house was thoroughly filled : a solemn awe sat upon the whole congregation, and God spoke to their hearts. The house was nearly filled at five in the morning, a sight never seen here before. Wednesday 17, Collumpton-hou se was more than filled, many being constrained to go away. And I found uncommon liberty of speech here, as well as at Exeter in the evening. Thursday 18, 1 had a pleasant journey to Plymouth-Dock, the rain having but just laid the dust. The late separation here seems to have done little hurt ; a few turbulent men have left us, but men of a more quiet spirit are continually added in their stead : so that on the whole we are gainers by our loss. Such is the wisdom of God ! Friday 19, In the evening I preached in the new bouse at Plymouth : this also was well filled. Sunday 21, 1 preached at the dock at seven, and the house contained us pretty well ; but in the evening, it was thought, as many went away as got in. After preaching, I gave them a plain account of the beginning and progress of that great work of God, vulgarly called Methodism. Monday 22, I took a cheerful leave of our brethren at the dock, leaving them well united together ; and on the following days preached at Lescard, St. Austle, Strieker, (a new place near it,) Helston, Mo- razian, and Penzance. Thursday 25, About nine I preached at Mousehole, where there is now one of the liveliest societies in Cornwall. Hence we went to the Land's End, in order to which we clambered down the rocks to the very edge of the water. And I cannot think but the sea has gained some hundreds of yards since I was here forty years ago. In the evening I preached at St. Just, where are still many of our eldest brethren, although many are gone to Abraham's bosom. Friday 26, In the evening I preached in the market-place at St. Ives, to almost the whole town. This was the first place in Cornwall where we preached, and where Satan fought fiercely for his kingdom ; but now all is peace. I found old John Nance had rested from his labours. Some months since, sitting behind the preacher in the pulpit, he sunk down, was carried out, and fell asleep ! SEPT. 1785.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 163 Saturday 27, About nine I preached at the copper works, near the Hale, in the new preaching-house. I suppose such another is not in England, nor in Europe, nor in the world : it is round and all the walls are brass ; that is, brazen slugs. It seems nothing can destroy this till heaven and earth pass away. At two the stewards of all the societies met at Redruth. There is nothing but peace and love among them, and among the societies from whence they came, and yet no gYeat increase ! At our love-feast in the evening, several of our friends declared, how God had saved them from inbred sin, with such exactness, both of sentiment and language, as clearly showed they were taught of God. Sunday 28, At half past eight I preached at St. Agnes, to the largest congregation I ever saw there. Between one and two I preached in the street at Redruth to thousands upon thousands ; and my strength was as my need ; yet I was afraid, lest I should not be able to make all those hear that assembled in the evening. But, though it was sup posed, there were two or three thousand more than ever were there before, yet they heard, (I was afterwards informed) to the very skirts of the congregation, while I applied those solemn words, One thing is needful. Wednesday 31, I preached at Launceston : September 1, in the market-place at Tiverton ; and on Friday 2, opened the little preach ing-house at Wallington. At noon I preached in an ancient, venera ble building, once belonging to a Lord Chief Justice. It is oddly called Cat-hanger. Having a stupid people to deal with, I spoke exceed ingly plain ; and I think many of them, even Somersetshire farmers, felt as well as heard. Thence we went on to Ditchet : the people here are all attention ; so that I had nothing to do but apply the pro mises. The society is continually increasing, and more and more of the hearers are convinced and justified. What is the strangest thing- is, there is no opposer in the town, but rich and poor all acknowledge. the work of God. Saturday 3, in the afternoon, the good providence of God brought us once more well to Bristol. Sunday 4, Finding a report had been spread abroad, that I was just going to leave the church, to satisfy those that were grieved con cerning it, I openly declared in the evening, that I had now no more thought of separating from the church, than I had forty years ago. Tuesday 6, I preached at Paulton and Coleford ; Wednesday 7, in an open place, near the road at Mells : just as 1 began a wasp, though unprovoked, stung me upon the lip : I was afraid it would swell so as to hinder my speaking ; but it did not. I spoke distinctly nearly two hours in all, and was no worse for it. In the evening I preached with much satisfaction at Frome, to a mixed multitude of rich and poor ; and afterwards strongly exhorted them that had believed to walk in love, after the example of our great Master. On Thursday I preached at Trowbridge, and on Friday at Bradford, where the work of God has much iincreased lately : indeed it has in creased this year through the whole Circuit, as it has not done for 164 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [OCT. 1785i twenty years before. On Saturday evening I preached at Bath. Sunday 11, Mr. Bradburn preached at seven, and Mr. Collins about two in the afternoon. I began the service at eleven, and preached on part of the epistle, Ephesians iii. 14, &c. Both then and in the eve ning the word distilled as the dew, and as the rain on the tender herb. Tuesday 13, I preached at Stoke, and in the evening at Pensford, where, I fear, after all the pains we have taken, the generality of the people know just us much of religion as the Hottentots. Wednesday 14, I preached in the evening in Temple-church, on Psalm lxxiv. 14. In the old translation it runs, The help that is done upon earth, God doth it himself. (A glorious and important truth !) In the new, Working sal vation in the midst of the earth. What a wonderful emendation ! Many such emendations there are in this translation : one would think King James had made them himself. Thursday 15, I went over to Hannam once more, and saw poor dis consolate Louisa, still wrapping herself up naked in her blanket, and not caring to speak to any one : the late pretty tale of her being the Emperor's daughter is doubtless a mere catch-penny ; and her four, and twenty examinations are as credible as Mahomet's journey through seventy thousand heavens. Sunday 18, I read prayers and preached at the new room in the morning, at two under the sycamore in Kingswood, and at five near King's-square in Bristol. In the following week I visited the classes, and was amazed to find there is no increase in the society, considering what able and diligent preachers they have had the last year ! Tuesday 27, I visited the little flock at Amesbury, humble, simple, and much devoted to God. Friday 30, about eleven I preached in the church at Midsummer-Norton, to a numerous congregation. The curate (Mr. Sims) read prayers for me, and read the.m admirably well. About five I began at Ditcnet ; where it rained almost all the time I preached : but this did not much lessen the congregation ; indeed all of this town, hardly one excepted, seem to have a liking to the truth. Saturday, October 1, I preached at Sheptonto a crowded audience. In the evening I preached at Weaver's-Hall, to such a congregation as I had not seen there for many years. Sunday 2, after reading prayers and preaching, I administered the sacrament to many hundred communicants. We then solemnly renewed our covenant with God. And while we solemnly avouched him to be our God,T believe many felt with holy, humble joy, that he avouched us to be his people : at four we went into the mail coach. At twelve, it being exceedingly dark, the wheel of a wagon touched ours, and the coach was over in a moment, but just on the spot were some rails which stopped it, so that it did not fall to the ground ; so that it was easily set right again without any hurt to man or beast. About seven we reached Hyde- Park corner, and the new chapel at eight. Tuesday 4, I made a little excursion into Hertfordshire, and on Friday 7, returned to London. Monday 10, Setting out for Oxfordshire, I preached at Wallingford in the evening, and at five in the morning. I preached in Oxford at noon, and in the evening at Whitaey, where the power of God used to be eminently present XQV. 1785.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 16^ Thursday 13, Returning to Oxford, I once more surveyed many of the gardens and delightful walks. What is wanting but the love of God to make this place an earthly paradise ? I preached in the evening to a very serious audience ; as also the next evening at High-Wycomb. In all this circuit the work of God appears both to widen and to deepen. Saturday 15, I returned to London. Sunday 16, at nine in the evening I set out for Norwich. Tuesday 18,' and the following days, I visited Yarmouth and the other parts of the circuit. Saturday 22, I returned to Norwich, and in the evening spoke home to an uncommonly large congregation, telling them, " Of all the people I have seen in the kingdom, for between forty and fifty years, you have been the most fickle, and yet the most stubborn." However, our labour has not been lost, for many have died in peace. And God is able to say to the residue of these dry bones, "Live !" Sunday 23, I administered the Lord's-Supper to about one hundred and sixty communicants. Tuesday 25, I crossed over to Lynn, which has been of a long sea son a cold and comfortless place : but the scene is now entirely changed. Two young, zealous, active preachers, strongly urging the people to expect a full and present salvation, have enlivened both the so ciety and the congregation ; but the difficultywas how to get to London. No coach set out till Friday morning, nor got in before Saturday night: so I took a post-chaise after preaching, and reached Downham between ten and eleven. But here we were informed, that in so dark a night we could not travel over Ely road, which runs between two banks, across which are many bridges, where the coachman must drive to an inch ; but we knew in whom we trusted, and pushed for ward till about one on Thursday we reached London. Monday 31, I set out for Northamptonshire, and in the afternoon came to Luton. For many years I lodged at Mr. Cole's in Luton ; but fie was now gone to his long home. The room prepared for me now was very large and very cold, and had no fire-place in it. After dinner I called upon Mr. Hampson, the lawyer, who had made Mr. Cole's will. He gave me with the utmost courtesy, all the information I wanted ; and afterwards invited me to lodge at his house, which I willingly did. In the evening the preaching-house was thoroughly filled. And we had a blessed season, both now and in the morning. Tuesday, November 1, When I came to Narthampton, the new Presbyterian meeting-house was offered me, twice as large as our own. The congregation was numerous and deeply attentive. Many attend ed again in the morning ; I trust, not without a blessing. Wednesday 2, I preached at Whittlebury. Thursday 3, I met with Peru's Treatise upon the Gravel and Stone. I had long supposed, that there could not be in nature any such thing as a lithontriptic, a medicine that could ' dissolve the stone without dissolving the bladder. But I am now convinced there is no arguing against matter of fact. The facts here alledged are too recent to be de nied, and too clear to be evaded : therefore I cannot but earnestly advise every one that has this dreadful distemper to try without delay, if he can afford it, this sovereign remedy. 166 P.EV. JOHN WESLEY 5 JOURNAL. [DEC. 1785. Friday 4, I returned to London. Sunday 6, I preached a funeral sermon for that great and good man Mr. Fletcher, and most of the congregation felt that God was in the midst of them. In the afternoon I buried the remains of Judith Perry, a lovely young woman, snatched away at eighteen : but she was ripe for the bridegroom, and went to meet him in the full triumph of faith. Sunday 1 3, I preached at Shore- ditch-church. The congregation was very numerous, and the col lection unusually large. Monday 14, This week I read over again, and carefully considered, Mr. Fry's tract upon Marriage. I wonder it is not more known, as there is nothing on the subject like it in the English tongue. I still think he has proved, to a demonstration, that no marriages are forbid den, either by the Law of God or of England, but those of brothers and sisters, and those in the ascending and descending line. The contrary supposition seems to be built wholly in a misinterpretation of that expression in the eighteenth chapter of Leviticus, Thou shalt not uncover her nakedness. But this he clearly shows, does not mean to marry a woman, but to deflower her ! Sunday 21, I preached in Bethnal-Green church, and spoke as plainly as I possibly could, on Having the form of godliness, but deny ing the power of it. And this I judged to be far more suitable to such a congregation, than talking of justification by faith. Having promised our friends at Winchester to come and open their preaching-house, when it was ready, I set out on Thursday 24, and preached there in the evening to a numerous congregation. But I have not seen a people less affected ; they seemed to be mere stocks and stones : however, I have cast my bread upon the water : possibly it may be found again after many days. On Friday evening we went into the mail-coach, and reached London at eight in the morning. Sunday 27, As soon as I had concluded my sermon at the new cha pel, I, hastened away to preach at St. Luke's, one of the largest parish churches in London. It was thoroughly filled, as it was seven years ago, when I preached there before. God enabled me to speak strong- words on the epistle for the day. And I believe some felt that it was now high time to awake out of sleep. Monday 28, 1 went to Canterbury ; the chapel was more than filled. On Tuesday I found at Dover also a considerable increase of the work of God. Wednesday 30, I went on to Margate. Some years since we had a small society here, but a local preacher took them to himself; only two or three remained, who, from time to time, pressed our preachers to come again. And to remove the objection, that " there was no place to preach in ;" with the help of a few friends they built a convenient preaching-house. Thursday I opened it in the evening ; the congregation was large, and perfectly well behaved. AndjI cannot but hope, that after all the stumbling-blocks there will be a people here, who will uniformly adorn the gospel of Christ. On Friday I returned to London. Monday, December 5, And so the whole week, I spent every hour I could spare in the unpleasing, but necessary work of going through bee. 1786. J rev. john wesley's journal. 167 the town, and begging for the poor men who had been employed in finishing the new chapel. It is true, I am not obliged to do this ; but, if I do it not, nobody else will. Sunday 11, I strongly enforced St. James's beautiful description of the wisdom from above. How hard is it to fix even on serious hear ers, a lasting sense of the nature of true religion ! Let it be right opinions, right modes of worship, or any thing, rather than right tempers ! Thursday 22, I preached at Highgate. Considering how magnificent a place this is, I do not wonder so little good has been done here. For what has religion to do with palaces? Sunday 25, Being Christmas -Day, I preached at the new chapel early in the morning, and in the evening ; about eleven at West-street. Monday 26, I baptized a young womaii brought up an Anabaptist : and God bore witness to his ordinance, filling her heart, at the very time, with peace and joy unspeakable. This week I endeavoured to point out the Errata in the eight volumes of the Arminian Magazine. This must be done by me ; otherwise, seve ral passages therein will be unintelligible. Sunday, January 1, 1786, We began that solemn service, the renew ing of our covenant with God, not in the evening, as heretofore, but at three in the afternoon, as more convenient for the generality of the people. And God was with us of a truth. Monday 9, At leisure hours this week I read the life of Sir William Penn, a wise and good man. But I was much surprised at what he re lates concerning his first wife, who lived, I suppose, fifty years, and said a little before her death, " I bless God I never did any thing wrong in my life !" Was she ( then ever convinced of sin ? And if not, could she be saved on any other footing than a heathen ? Tuesday 24, I was desired to go and hear the King deliver his speech in, the House of Lords ; but how agreeably was 1 surprised : he pro nounced every word with exact propriety. I much doubt whether there be any other king in Europe that is so just and natural a speaker. Tuesday 31,1 had a more particular account of Joseph Lee than ever I had before. When I went first to Newcastle-upon-Lyme, I chose him, being a man full of faith and love, to be one of the leaders, steward of the society, and caterer for our family. He discharged his trust with the utmost ability and integrity. He walked humbly and closely with God, and was a pattern to all the town, as well as to all the society. But after some time he was persuaded to quit Newcastle, and settle at Nottingham. There he fell among Antinomians, and trusting in his own strength, gradually sucked in their opinion, grew less and less strict, and lost first the power, and' then the very form of religion. After he had lived some years openly and avowedly without God, in the world, while he was one evening quite merry with his jovial companions, one of them said, " Why, Mr. Lee, you were once very godly : you were one of those mad Methodists ?" He answered not a word; but leaned his arm on the table and died. Sunday, February 5, In the morning, while I was applying at the vor,. 4—W Iti8 rev. john wesley's journal. [march, 17S6. new chapel that solemn declaration, The Lord's' hand is not shortened that he .cannot save, nor is his ear waxed heavy, that he cannot hear, he did indeed speak aloud by his word, so that the stout-hearted trembled. I broke out into prayer : the power of God came mightily upon us, and there was a general cry : but the voice of two persons' prevailed overall therest. One praying, and the other shrieking as in the agonies of death. God relieved the former in a few minutes ; the other, not till evening. This week, in travelling, I read over Dr. Stuart's History of Scot land. He is a writer indeed ! As far above Dr, Robertson as Dr. Ro bertson is above Oldmison. He proves beyond all possibility ofdoubt, that the charges against Queen Mary were totally groundless ; that she was betrayed basely by her own servants, from the beginning to the end : and that she was not only one of the best princesses then in Europe, but one of the most blameless, yea, and the most pious women ! Monday 13, I went to Mitcham, and found a little company just started up, who were all on fire for God. The house being too small, I preached at the front of a house adjoining to the road, where the earnestness of the people made amends for the keenness of the north wind. Sunday 19, I preached in Horsleydown-church, where, to my no small surprise, no man, woman, or child, seemed to know me, either by face or by name ! But before I had done, many of the numerous congregation knew that God was there of a truth. Monday 20, I paid my last visit to that saint of God, Ann Shortland, dying of a cancer in her breast, in continual pain, but triumphing over pain and death. Sunday 26, I took a solemn leave of the congregation at the new chapel, at West-street, and at Brentford. Monday 27, we went on to Newbury, with little interruption from the snow ; and 1 had a com fortable opportunity, with a large and serious congregation. But I have not passed such a night for these forty years, my lodging-room being just as cold as the outward air. 1 could not sleep at all till three in the morning. I rose at four and set out. at five; but the snow, which fell in the night, lay so deep, it was with much difficulty we reach ed Chippenham. Taking fresh horses there we pushed on to Bath, and found a larger congregation than could well be expected. Wednesday, March 1, I had appointed to preach in Trowbridge at noon ; but we could not get thither till half an hour after : I then preached without delay ; and in the evening in Bristol, on O death ! where is thy sting ? 0 grave ! where is thy victory ? Afterwards I visited one, who could say with M. de Renty, "I bear with me an experi mental verity, and a plentitude of the presence of the ever-blessed Trinity." In the afternoon I went over to Kingswood, and found the school in excellent order. Sunday 5, I read prayers and preached, and administered the sacra ment to above five hundred communicants. At three I preached in Temple church, and at five in the new room : on Friday I baptized a vouna; negro, who appeared to be deeply serious and much affected, as it ARCH, 1786.] REV. JOHN WESLEY S JOURNAL. 169 indeed did the whole congregation. Saturday 11, I rode over to Churchill, about twelve miles from Bristol, where Dr. Barry read prayers, and I preached to a serious congregation. Monday 13, I left Bristol, taking Mr. Bradburn with me, as I judged a change of place and of objects would be a mean of calming his mind, deeply affected with the loss of a beloved wife. In the evening I preached at Stroud : Tuesday 14, at noon in Painswick, with uncom mon liberty ; and in the evening at Gloucester. I preached in the old church (now vanished away) belonging to St. Bartholomew's hospital, which I think was very considerably larger than the new chapel in London. Wednesday 15, Much snow fell in the night, and quite blocked up the road : yet, with some difficulty, we got through to Tewksbury, where I preached at noon. Abundance of snow likewise fell in the afternoon, but we pushed through it to Worcester. Thursday 16, it was not without some difficulty, that we made our way through the snow to Bewdley. Prejudice is here now vanished away. The life of Mr. Clark turned tbe tide ; and much more his glorious death. I preached about noon, and at Worcester in the evening, where we had an uncommon blessing while I was enforcing, Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Friday 17, At eleven I preached at Bengeworth, and again at six in the evening ; I believe, not without effect. Saturday 1 8, 1 went on straight to Birmingham. Sunday 19, a large congregation attended in the morning. At ten I went to , Saint Mary's, where the curate preached an admirable sermon. At five the preaching-house would not nearly contain the congregation. Afterwards I administered the Lord's Supper to about five hundred communicants. Monday 20, I met the select society, most of whom are clearly per fected in love. Tuesday 21, at three in the afternoon I preached at Quinton, in the new preaching-house, and in the evening at Birming ham. To-day I read Dr. Withering's Treatise on Foxglove. He says, it frequently cures epilepsies, palsies, insanity, consumptions, and seve ral other diseases. Sunday 26, the church at Madeley, as usual, was far too small to contain the congregation. I preached on Rev. xiv. 1 — 7, and exhorted the congregation to cherish that divine ambition of being found faultless before God. We had another large congregation in the afternoon, and all as serious as death. I spent the evening at a neighbouring gentleman's house, in close conversation from the beginning to the end. Monday 27, In the morning I preached at Coalbrookdale, on Isaiah Ixvi. 8, 9 : and in the evening in Madeley church, on John xiv. 22. The church was thoroughly filled ; and God reserved the great bless ing for the last. We had a glorious opportunity. He poured the dew of his blessing on many souls, and caused many mourners to rejoice. with joy unspeakable. Tuesday 28, After calling at Sheriff- Hales, and giving them a short exhortation, I hastened to Stafford, and found the congregation wait ing. I strongly enforced upon them, The kingdom of God is at hand: 170 M.EV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [APRIL, 1786. and then went on to Lane-End. It was past seven, and the wind was piercingly cold ; however, I was constrained to preach abroad ; and none of us seemed to regard the weather, for God warmed our hearts. Wednesday 29,' We came to our old steady friends at Borslem :" but he, with whom I used to lodge, is no more seen : he trusted the Ameri cans with all his substance, and they cheated him out of all : so he came home and died, leaving an amiable widow, aud six or seven children. Cold as it was, the - multitude of people constrained me to preach abroad : but I believe none went away. I preached on Truly, our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. We have scarcely seen such a time since we came from London. The place seemed to be filled with his glory. After visiting Newcastle and Congleton, on Saturday, April 1, I came to Macclesfield. Here again I had the, satisfaction to find a people much alive to God. Sunday 2, we had a large and serious con gregation at the new church, both morning and afternoon. The organ is one of the finest toned I ever heard, and the congregation singing with it makes a sweet harmony. Monday 3, About eleven I preached to a crowded congregation in the new house near Chapel-in-le-Frith. Many of these lively people came from among the mountains, and strongly reminded me of those fine verses, wherein Dr. Burton paraphrases those plain words, The hills are a refuge for the wild goats, and so are the stony rocks for the conies. " Te, domine, intonsi monies, te saxa loquuntur Summa deum, dum amat juga pendulum hircus, Saxorumque colit latebrosa cuniculus antra." It is chiefly among these enormous mountains, that so many have been awakened, justified, and soon after perfected ih love. But even while they are full of love, Satan strives to push many of them to ex travagance. This appears in several instances: 1, Frequently three or four, yea, ten or twelve, pray aloud all together. 2, Some of them, perhaps many, scream all together as loud as they possibly can. 3, Some of them use improper, yea, indecent expressions in prayer. 4, Several drop down as dead, and are as stiff as a corpse ; but in a while they start up, and cry, Glory ! Glory ! perhaps twenty times together. Just so did the French prophets, and very lately the Jumpers in Wales, bring the real work into contempt. Yet whenever we re prove them, it should be in the most mild and gentle manner possible. Tuesday 4, In the evening I preached to a lovely congregation at Stockport. Friday 7, 1 went on as swiftly as I could through Man chester, Wigan, and Bolton. Sunday 16, (Easter-day) 1 crossed over to Warrington, where, having read prayers, preached, and administered the Lord's-Supper, I hastened back to Bolton. The house was crowded the more, because of five hundred and fifty children, who are taught in our Sunday-schools : such an army of them got about me when I came out of the chapel, that I could scarcely disengage myself from them. MAY, 1786.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 171 Monday 17, I went on to Blackburn, which was sufficiently crowded, it being the fair-day. No house would contain the people ; so I stood abroad and expounded that awful scripture, / saw the dead, small and great, stand before God. All were still as night, unless when they sung. Then their voices were as the sound of many waters. Tuesday 18, I preached atPaddiham, Burnly, Southfield, and Come, Thursday 20, I went to Otley, and found God was there, both in the evening and morning service. Friday 21,1 preached at Yeadon, where the- work of God is rapidly going forward. Such a company of loving children 1 have nowhere seen, but at Oldham, near Manchester. Sunday 23, I preached in Haworth church in the morning, and Bingdey church in the afternoon ; but as there were many hundreds that cquld not get in, Mr. Atmore preached abroad at the same time. In the evening I preached to a huge multitude at Bradforth. Surely the people of this town are highly favoured, having both a vicar and a curate that preach the truth. Monday 24, 1 preached at Halifax : Tuesday 25, at ten, in Hepton- stall church (the ugliest I know) and in the afternoon at Todmorden church. How changed are both the place and the people since I saw them first. "Lo! the smiling fields are glad ! And the human savages are tame !" Thursday 27, I preached at Greatland at ten, and at Huddersfield in the evening. Friday 28, I preached at Longwood-house, the owners of which are a blessing to all the poor, both in spirituals and temporals. Saturday 29, the wind drove us in the evening info the Cloth-hall, in Gildersome, where I expounded and applied, The things that are seen are temporal ; but the things that are not seen are, eternal. Sunday 30, I preached in the new house at Dewsbury, as I had in tended. I could not preach abroad at Birstal at noon because of the boisterous wind. I got some shelter from it at Wakefield, while 1 ap plied those words in one of the Psalms for the day, He healeth them that are broken in heart, and giveth medicine to heal their sickness. On Mond.wever, we reached Arbroath soon after six, and a large congregation was deeply attentive, while I applied, To'him that hath shall be given ; but from him that hath not shall be taken away, even what he assuredlyliath. The .storm was still so high, that unless we set out at night, we could not pass till nine in the morn ing : so we went on board at eleven. The wind was then so strong that the boat could scarcely keep above water. However, our great PHot brought us safe to land, between one and two in. the morning. Saturday 27, about three we came to the new inn, and rested tillbetween ¦ six and seven : thence going gently on to Kinghorn, we had a pleasant passage to Leith, After preaching, 1 walked to my lovely lodging at Coates, and found rest was sweet. Sunday 28, I preached first, at our own house, and at noon on the Castle-hill. I never saw such a congregation there before. The chair was placed just opposite to the sun : but 1 soon forgot it, while I ex pounded those words, I saw the dead, small and great, ftand before God. JUNE, 1796.] REV. JOHN wesley's journal. 17S In the evening the whole audience seemed to feel, Without holiness no man shall see the Lord. ' Tuesday 30, I had the happiness of conversing with the Earl of H and his lady; at Dunbar. I could not but observe both the ea siness of his behaviour, (such as we find in all the Scottish nobility), and the fineness of his appearance, greatly set off by a milk-white head of hair. Wednesday 31, I took a view of the stupendous bridge, about ten miles from Dunbar, which is thrown over the deep glen that runs between the two mountains commonly called the Peas. I doubt whether Lewis the XlVth ever raised such a bridge as this. Intheevening I preached at Berwick-upon-Tweed. Thursday, June 1, at Alnwick. Friday 2, I was desired to lay the first stone of the preaching-house there. A very large congregation attending, we spent some time on the spot in solemn prayer, and singing praise to God. About noon I preached in the Town-hall at Morpeth : in the evening at Newcastle. How different is the spirit of this congregation to that of most of those I have seen lately ! Whit-Sunday, June 4, 1 preached at eightto an amazing congregation, at the Ballast-hill : but doubled by that of the Fell, in the afternoon. But it was supposed that at the Garth-heads in the evening was as large as both together. On Monday and Tuesday the congregations were larger than 1 ever remember. Wednesday 7, at five we had a solemn parting. About noon 1 preached at North-Shields, in a tent erected near the town, to a very numerous congregation. In the evening I preached at Sunderland. About eleven on Friday, I preached in the church at Monkwearmouth, on those words in the second lesson, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. Friday 19, I preached at Durham -about eleven, and in the evening at Hartle pool. I preached in the Town-hall, where many appeared to be very deeply affected. Surely the seed will spring up at last even here, where we seemed so long to be ploughing on the sand. Saturday 10, I went to Darlington. Since I was here last, Mr. died, and left many thousands of pounds to an idle spendthrift, but not one groat to the poor ! O unwise steward of the mammon of unright eousness ! How much better for him, had he died a beggar. Sunday 11, I was obliged in the evening to preach abroad. Afterward we had a love-feast, at which many plain people spoke the height and depth of Christian experience, in the most plain and artless manner. Monday 12, We found still at Stockton much fruit of S. Brisco's la bours among the children. I preached here at noon, and at Yarm in the evening. Tuesday 13, the preaching-house at Hutton Rudby was well filled at nine. When I came to Gisborough, where I had no thought of preaching, I found the congregation waiting; so I began without delay, and it was a time of love. We had a warm ride in the afternoon to Whitby, where it has pleased God fully to make up the removal of William Ripley, who was for many years a burning and a shining light. In the evening the house was well filled with people and with the power of God. And after preaching four times, I was no more tired than when I rose in the morning. 174 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JUNE, 1786. Thursday 15, I found the work of .God at Scarborough more lively than it had been for many years. Friday 16, in the evening I preached at Bridlington-key, to a numerous congregation. Saturday 17, 1 found Mr. Parker at Beverly in a palace. The gentleman that owned it being gone abroad, it was let at a moderate rent. I preached here at twelve : about fotir at Newlands, and at seven in Hull. Sunday 18, 1 was in vited by the vicar to preach in the High Church, one of the largest parish churches in England. I preached on the gospel for the day, the story of Dives, and Lazarus. Being invited to preach in the after noon, the church was, if possible, more crowded than before : and I pressed home the prophet's words, Seek ye the Lord while he may be found : call ye upon him while he is near. Who would have expected a few years since, to see me preaching in the High Church at Hull ? I had appointed to preach at Swinfleet ; so I went as far as Beverly this, evening : and on Monday 19, set out early ; but being vehemently im portuned to go round by Malton, I did so, and preached there at nine. Thence I hastened to Pocklington, and finding the people ready, step ped out of the chaise and preached .without delay. We reached Swin fleet between six and seven, having gone in all, seventy-six miles. A numerous congregation was assembled tinder the shade of the tall trees. Sufficient for this day was the labour thereof But still I was no more tired than when I rose in the morning. Tuesday 20, I preached in Crowle at -noon, and in the evening. at Epworth. ¦ Wednesday 21, I preached at Scatter at nine, and at one in Brigg, in an open part of the town. All were still as night; the very bovs and girls standing as quiet as their parents : indeed it seemed that thehearts of, all were as melting wax before the Lord. In the evening, the people flocking together on every side, I was constrained to preach in the market-place at Grimsby, where every one behaved well, except the Calvinist preacher ! Thursday 22, in the evening I preached at Lowth. I never saw this people affected before. Friday 23, at nine I preached at Tealby, where many of the people felt that God was with them in an uncommon manner, Haying now given a second reading to Fingal, rendered into heroic verse, I was thoroughly convinced, it is one of the finest epic poems in the English language. Many of the lines aye worthy of Mr. Pope : many of the incidents are deeply pathetic ; and the character of Fingal exceeds any in Homer, yea, arid Virgil too. No such speech comes out of his mouth, as t " Sumpius ..'Entias, fama super aethera notus :" No such thing in his conduct as the whole affair of Dido is in the Tro jan hero. Mean time, who is Ewen Cameron ? Is it not Dr. Blair? And is not one great part of this publication to aggrandize the character of the old Highlanders, as brave, hospitable, generous men ? In the evening I prea6hed to a large congregation at Gainsborough, in Sir Nevil Hickman's yard : but Sir Nevil is no more, and has left no son ; so the very name of that ancient family is lost ! And how JUNE, 1786. j REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. ' 175 changed is the house since I was young, and good Sir Willoughby Hick« man lived here ! One of the towers is said to have been built in the reign of King Stephen, above six hundred years ago. But it matters not ; yet a little while, and the earth itself, with all the works of it, will be burnt up. Saturday 24, I preached at New Inn ; afterwards at Newark, one of the* most elegant towns in England ; and in the evening at Retford, on / saw the dead, small and great, stand before God. Sunday 25, I preached at Misterton. I was grieved to see so small a congregation at Haxey-church : it was not so when Mr. Harle lived here. O what a curse in this poor land are pluralities and non-resi dence ! But these are evils that God alone can cure. About one I preached at Overthorp, where the spreading trees shel tered both me and the congregation-: but we had a far larger at Ep worth, between four and fire in the afternoon. Surely God will visit this place yet again, and lift up them that are fallen. Monday 26, I read prayers and preached in Ownston-church, thoroughly filled with attentive hearers ; and again at nine in the morn ing. Tuesday 27, at one in the afternoon I preached at Belton. While I was preaching, three little children, the eldest six years old, the young est two and a half, whom their mother had left at dinner, straggled out, and got to the side of a well, which was near the house. The youngest leaning over, fell in : the others striving to pull it out, the board gave way, in consequence of which they all fell in together. The young one fell under the bucket, and stirred no more : the others held for a while by the side of the well, and then sunk into the water, where it was sup posed they, lay half an hour. One coming to tell me, I advised imme diately to rub them, with salt, and to breathe strongly into their mouths : they did so ; but the young one was past help : the others, in two or three hours, were as well as ever ! Wednesday 28, I entered into the eighty-third year of my age. I am a wonder to myself. It is now twelve years since I have felt any such sensation as weariness. 1 am never tired, (such is the goodness of God) either with writing, preaching, or travelling : one natural cause undoubtedly is, my contmual exercise and change of air. How the lat ter contributes to health I know not ; but certainly it does. This morning Abigail Pilsworth, aged fourteen, was borne into the world of spirits. I talked with her the evening before, and found her ready for the Bridegroom. A few hours after she quiedy fell asleep. When we went into the room, where her remains lay, we were surprised. A more beautiful corpse I never saw : we all sung, " Ah ! lovely appearance of death, What sight upon earth is so fair ? Not all tne gay pageants that breathe, Can with a dead body compare." All the company were in tears. And in all, except her mother, who sorrowed, (but not as one without hope,) they were tears of joy. O death ! where is thy sting ? ¦ London, January 20, 1786. vol, 4 — X EXTRACT OP THE ./O URJYdtL, No. XXI. FROM JUNE 29, 1786, TO OCTOBER 24, 179Q. M. TOOK a cheerful leave of my affectionate friends at Epworth, leaving them much more alive than I found them. About one I preached at Thome, now one of the liveliest places in the circuit, to a numerous congregation ; and in the evening at Doncaster. I know not that ever I saw this preaching-house filled before; and many of them seemed to feel as well as hear. It may be, some will bring forth fruit with patience. Friday 30, I turned aside to Barnsley, formerly famous for all manner of wickedness : they were then ready to tear any Methodist preacher in pieces. Now not a dog wagged his tongtte. I preached near the market place to a very large congregation, and, 1 believe, the word sunk into many hearts : they seemed to drink in every word. Surely God will have a people in this place. Saturday, July 1, I went on to Bramley, about four miles from Shef field, where a gentleman has built a neat preaching-house for the poor people, at his own expense. As the notice Was short, I had no need to preach abroad. The congregation was deeply serious, while lex- plained, what it was to build upon a rock, and what to build upon. the sand. In the evening I spoke very plainly to a crowded audience at Sheffield, on Now it is high lime to awake out of sleep. One of the hearers wrote me a nameless letter upon it: but he could remember nothing of the sermon, but only that " The rising early was good for the nerves !" Sunday 2, I read prayers, preached, and administered the sacrament, to six or seven hundred hearers. It was a solemn season. I preached, soon after five in the evening, on There is joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth. Afterwards I gave an account of the rise of Methodism (that is, old scriptural Christianity) to the whole congregation, as truth will bear the light, and loves to appear in the face of the sun. 178 rev. john wesley's journal. [july, 1786. Monday 3, We had our quarterly meeting, followed by a love feast, at which many spoke without reserve ; and several of them admirably well, showing that with the fear of the Lord is understanding. Tuesday 4, I met the select society, most of them walking in glo rious liberty. Afterwards I went to Wentworth-house, the splendid seat of the late Marquis of Rockingham. He lately had forty thousand a year in England, and fifteen or twenty thousand in Ireland. And what has he now ? Six feet of earth : " A heap of dust is all remains of thee ! 'Tis all thou art ; and ali the proud shall be." The situation of the house is very fine. It commands a large and beautiful prospect. Before the house is an open view ; behind, a few acres of wood, but not laid out with any taste. The green houses are large, but I did not observe any thing curious in them. The front. of the house is large and magnificent, but not yet finished. The en trance is noble ; the saloon exceedingly grand, and so are several of the apartments. Few of the pictures are striking ; I think none of them tb be compared with some in Fonmon-Castle. The. most extraordi- ?ary thing I saw was the stables ; a square, fit for a royal palace, all uilt of fine stone, and nearly as large as the old quadrangle at Christ- church in Oxford. But for what use were these built ? To show that the owner had nearly threescore thousand pounds a year ! O how much treasure might he have laid up in heaven with all this mammon of un righteousness ! About one I preached at Thorpe, to three or four times as many ae the preaching-house would have contained ; and in the evening to the well-instructed and well-behaved congregation at Sheffield. O what has God wrought in this town ! The leopard now lies down with the kid. Wednesday 5; Notice was given, without my knowledge, of my preaching at Belpar, seven miles short of Derby. I was nothing glad of this, as it obliged me to quit the turnpike road, to hobble over a miserable common. The people gathered from all parts, were waiting. So I went immediately to take the market-place, and, standing under a large tree, testified, This is life eternal, to know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou has sent. The house at Derby was thoroughly filled in the evening. As many of the better sort, so called, were there, I explained, what seemed to be more adapted to their cir cumstances and experience, This only have Ijound that God made man upright ; but they found out for themselves many inventions. Thursday 6, In going to Uston we were again entangled in misera ble roads ; we got thither, however, about eleven. Though the church is large, it was sufficiently crowded. The vicar read prayers with great earnestness and propriety: I preached, on Her ways are way& of 'pleasantness, and the people seemed all ear. Surely good will be done in this place, though it is strongly opposed both by the Calvinists and Socini.aris. We went on in a lovely afternoon, and through a lovely country, to JULY, 1786.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 179 Nottingham. I preached to a numerous and well-behaved congrega tion. I love this people. There is something wonderfully pleasing, both in thpir spirit and their behaviour. Friday-7, The congregation at five, was very large, and convinced me of the earnestness of the people. They are greatly increased in wealth and grace, and continue increasing daily. Saturday 8, I walked through the General Hospital. I never saw one so well ordered. Neat ness, decency, and common sense, shine through the whole. I do not wonder that many of the patients recover. I prayed with two of them ; one of them a notorious sinner, seemed to be cut to the heart. The case of the other was quite peculiar. Both her breasts have been cut off, and many pins taken out of them, as well as out of her flesh in various parts. "Twelve," the apothecary said, "were taken out of her yesterday, and five more to day." And the physicians potently be lieve, she swallowed them all, though nobody can tell when or how ? Which is the greater credulity, to believe this is purely natural ; or, to ascribe it to preternatural agency ? In the evening many felt "TV o'erwhelming power of saving grace ;" and many more on Sunday 9, when we had the largest number of communicants that ever were seen at this chapel, or perhaps at any church in Nottingham. I took a solemn leave of this affectionate con gregation, at five in the morning, Monday 10, not expecting to meet another such, unless at Birmingham, till I came to London. About nine I preached at Mount-Sorrel ; and though it was the fair- day, I saw not one drunken person in the congregation. It rained most of the way to Leicester, and some were afraid there would be no congregation Vain fear ! The house was extremely crowded with deeply attentive hearers, while I applied our Lord's words to the cen turion, in effect, spoken to us also, As thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. In the afternoon we went on to Hinckley. It rained all the evening ; yet we had more hearers than the house could contain, and hardly a trifler among them. A more serious, well behaved people,' I have seldom seen. This evening (I believe, before I had done preaching) a remarkable instance of divine justice appeared. A man in the street was grieviously cursing another, and praying God " To blast his eyes." At that instant he was struck blind. So, I suppose, he continues ever since. Tuesday 1 1, The poor little flock at Coventry have at length pro cured a neat, convenient room ; only it is far too small : as many of the people as could get in were all attention. How is the scene changed here also ! I know not but now the corporation, if it had been pro posed, would have given the use of the town-hall to me rather than to the dancing-master ! In the evening I went on to Birmingham, and found the usual spirit in the congregation. They are much alive to God, and consequently increasing in number as well as in giace. a J 80 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JULY, 1786. Wednesday 12, At noon I preached in the new chapel at Derrington. To build one here was an act of mercy indeed, as the church would not contain a fifth, perhaps not a tenth of the inhabitants. At six I preached in our chapel at Birmingham, and immediately after, took coach to London. Thursday 13, We reached the town at two, and settled all our busi ness on this and the two following days. Sunday 1 6, my heart was greatly enlarged in exhorting a very numerous congregation to Wor ship God in spirit and in truth. And we had such a number of com municants as we have not had -before, since the covenant night. I suppose fifty, perhaps a hundred of them never communicated before. In the afternoon I buried the remains of Thomas Parkinson, (who died suddenly two or three days before) one of our first members, a man of an excellent spirit, and unblamable conversation. Monday 1 7, After preaching at West-street, where many were im pressed with a deep sense of the presence of God, I took coach for Bristol. We had a delightful journey ; but having the window at my side open while I slept, I lost my voice so that I could scarcely be heard across the room : but before Wednesday morning (by applying garlic as usual) it was instantly restored. Thursday 20, I preached at the new room, on We have this treasure in earthern vessels. And the hearts of many who had been vexed with needless scruples, were mightily refreshed. Friday 21, I walked over to Kingswood-School, now one of the pleasantest spots in England. I found all things just according to my desire .; the rules being well observed, and the whole behaviour of the children showing that they were now managed with the wisdom that cometh from above. Sunday 23, I preached in the morning on those words in the second lesson, Lazarus, come forth, and I believe many that were buried in sin, heard the voice of the Son of God. In the evening I preached abroad on Matt. v. 22. In the middle of the sermon it began to rain, but not many went away. This put me in mind of that remarkable circum stance respecting the late Pope. On that solemn day, when the Pope rides on horseback to St. Peter's, a violent storm scattered his whole retinue : when it abated his holiness was missing, but they soon found him sitting quietly in the church. Being asked, " How he could ride through such a storm," he very calmly replied, "I am ready to go, not only through water, but through fire also for my Lord's sake " Strange that such a man should be suffered to sit two years in the papal chair ! Tuesday 25, Our .Conference began : about eighty preachers at tended. We met every day at six and nine in the morning, and at two in the afternoon. On Tuesday and on Wednesday morning the cha racters of the preachers were considered, whether already admitted or not. On Thursday in the afternOon we permitted any of the society to be present, and weighed what was said about separating from the church. But we all determined to continue therein, without one dis senting voice : and I doubt not but this determination will stand at least, till I am removed into a better world. On Friday and Saturday AUG. 1786. J REV. JOHN WESLEY S JOURNAL. 181 most of our temporal business was settled. Sunday 30, I preached in the room morning and evening ; and iii the afternoon at Kingswood, where there is rather an increase than a decrease in the work of God. Monday 31, The Conference met again, and concluded on Tuesday morning. Great had been the expectation of many that we should have had warm debates, but by the mercy of God we had none at all. Every thing was transacted with great calmness ; and we parted, as we met, in peace and love. Tuesday; August 8, At seven Mr. Brackenbury, Broadbenty and I, took coach for Harwich, which we reached about eight in the evening. Wednesday 9, between two and three in the afternoon we went on board the Besborough packet, one of the cleanest ships I ever saw, with one of the most obliging captains. We had many gentlemen on board, whom I was agreeably surprised*to find equally obliging. Thursday 10, The wind continuing small, and the sea calm, they desired me to give them a sermon : they were all attention. Who knows but some among them may retain the impressions they then re ceived ! Friday 1 1 , For some time we had a dead calm ; so that we did not reach Helvoetsluys'till the afternoon, nor Rotterdam till between ten and eleven at night. We found Mr. Loyal was not returned from a journey, which he had begun a week or two before : but Mrs. Loyal gave us a hearty welcome. Saturday 1 2, Mr. Williams, minister of, the episcopal church, and Mr. Scot, minister of the Scotch church, both Welcomed me to Hol land ; but the kindness involved me in an awkward difficulty. Mr. Scot had asked the consent of his consistory, for me to preach in his church on Sunday afternoon : but Mr. Williams had given notice of my preaching in his church, both morning and afternoon-: and neither of them was willing to give up his point : I would fain have compro mised the matter ; but each seemed to apprehend his honour concerned, and would not in anywise give up his point. I saw no possible way to satisfy both but by prolonging my stay in Holland, in order to preach one Sunday, morning and afternoon in the episcopal, and another, in the Scotch church. And possibly God may have more work for me to do in Holland than I am yet aware of. ' Though Mr. Loyal, with whom I lodged when I was at Rotterdam before, was not in town, being gone with a friend to Paris, yet 1 was quite at home, and went on in my work without any interruption. Sun day 13, the service began about ten. Mr. Williams read prayers ex ceedingly well, and I preached on those words in the first lesson, How long halt ye between two opinions ? All the congregation gave a serious attention ; but I fear they only heard, but did not feel : but many seem ed to be much affected in tho afternoon, while I opened and applied those words, -There hath no temptation taken you but. what is common to men. In the evening Mr. Scot called upon me and informed me, "That the elders of his church would not desire me to stay in Hol- and on purpose to preach, but would dismiss my promise." I then lb'2 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [aug. 1786. determined to follow my first plan : and, God willing, to return to England in a fortnight. Monday 14, Taking boat at eight, we went at our ease, through one of the pleasantest summer countries in Europe, and reached the Hague between twelve and one. Being dete> mined to lodge no more at inns, I went with brother Ferguson to his own lodging, and passed a quiet arid comfortable night. A few pious persons came to us in the evening, with whose spirits we quickly took acquaintance. I have not found any persons since we crossed the sea, who seemed so much devoted to God. Tuesday 15, Making the experiment when we took boat, I found I could write as well in the boat, as in my study. . So from this hour I continued writing whenever I was on board. What mode of travelling is to be compared with this ! About noon we called on Professor Roers at Leyden, a very sensible and conversable man ; as he spoke Latin very fluently I could willingly have spent some hours with him ; but I had appointed to be at Amsterdam in the evening. We came thither between seven and eight, and took up our abode with William Fergu son, who continued to lodge Us all with tolerable convenience. Wednesday 18, I spent the day very quietly in writing, and visiting a few friends, who knew not how to be affectionate enough. In the evening I spoke to a little company at my own lodgings, on It is ap pointed to men once to die. Thursday 19, I breakfasted with a little company of truly pious peo ple, and afterwards went to see the manner wherein the deacons of Amsterdam relieve their poor weekly. I suppose there were two or three hundred poor, but the whole was transacted with the utmost still ness and decency. To-day likewise I visited more of my friends, who showed all pos sible affection. Friday 20, we went to'Haerlem, and spent an agree able day. with a few agreeable friends. We lodged at Mr. Vancam- pen's, a florist, and were perfectly at home. Both Mr. and Mrs. Van- campen seemed deeply devoted to God, as much as any I have seen in Holland. In the afternoon we inet,a little company in the town, who seemed to be truly alive to God ; one Miss Rouquet in particular, whose least recommendation was, that she could speak both Dutch, French, and English. She spent the evening at Miss Falconberg's, the chief gen tlewoman in the town Here we supped : the manner was particular. No table-cloth was used, but plates with knives, and forks, and napkins to each person, and fifteen or sixteen small ones, : on which were bread, butter cheese, slices of hung beef, cakes, pancakes, and fruit of various kinds. To these were added, music upon an excellent organ, one of the sweetest tones I ever heard. Saturday 21, We took a walk in Haerlem wood: so delightful a place I scarcely ever saw before. I judged it to be about a mile broad, and two or three miles deep. This is divided into almost innumerable walks, some broad and sortie narrow, but diversified in a wonderful AUG. 1786.] K1LV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 183 manner, and skirted with elegant houses on both sides. In the after noon we returned to Amsterdam In the evening Mr. Shranten, a bookseller, (whose daughter had come with us in the boat to Amster dam) an elder of the Holland's church, invited us to supper, and de sired me to expound a portion of scripture, which I did with liberty of spirit. Afterwards Mr. Brackenbury repeated to them in French the substance of what I had said. Sunday 22, 1 expected to have preached in the English church, as I did before : but some of the elders were unwilling,' so I attended there as a hearer ;and I heard as miserable a sermon as most I have heard in my life. It might have been preached either among Jews, Turks, or heathens, without offending them at all: In the afternoon I expounded to a company of serious Christians, our Lord's account of building our house upon a rock. Jonathan Ferguson interpreted sen tence by sentence. And God applied it to the hearts of the hearers. Monday 21, 1 spent an hour, with great satisfaction, at Mr. Noltanu's country house : such a couple as he and his wife I never saw since I left London. And both their children appeared to be worthy of their parents, both as to person,, understanding, and temper. Tuesday 22, I spent great part of the day at Mr. Vankennel's coun try-house, having agreed with him to give me a private room to write in, before and after dinner. At ten, a very sensible clergymen came in, with whom I conversed very largely, as he talked elegant Latin and exceeding fluently/ beyond any I have lately seen on tbe Continent. Having seen all the friends I proposed to see, on Thursday 24, I took my leave of this loving people, and the pleasant city of Amster dam, very probably for ever. And setting out at seven in the morning, between two and three in the afternoon came to Utrecht. ' Mr. Vanrocy, the gentleman who bad engaged me to lodge, sent a coach to wait for me at my landing ; and received me with the courtesy and cordiality of an old Yorkshire Methodist. Friday 25, 1 kept close to my work all the day ; I dined at Mr. Lo- ten's,, where was such variety of food as I never saw at any nobleman's table, either in England or Ireland ! In the afternoon we took a view of a widow-lady's gardens, in the suburbs of Utrecht. I believe from the house to the end of the grand vista is about a mile. I think the gardens are not half as broad ; but such exquisite beauty and symmetry I never saw before. In grandeur it is not to be named with a few places in England ; but in elegance and variety, I verily believe it equals, if not exceeds, any place of the size in Europe. Jn the evening I expounded to a select company ,of very honourable ladies, Matt, vii, 24, Miss Loten interpreting for me, sentence by sen tence. And I know not but God might bless this poor way of preach ing toihe Dutch, as he did that to the Indians by David Brainard. Saturday 26, I had a long conversation with a gentleman, whom almost all the religious world take for a madman. I do not know that I have found one of so deep experience since I left London. I have no doubt of his being perfected in love. He has a clear witness of it, and has had many years without interruption. T had now an vot.. 4— Y 1(34 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [SEPT. 1786. opportunity of being truly informed concerning the university of Utrecht. As the ybung gentlemen are scattered over this town, and live without the least control, they do any thing or nothing as they please ; and, as they have no tutors, they have none to check them. Most of them lounge from iriorning to night, doing nothing or doing worse ; well, bad as they are, Oxford and Cambridge are not Utrecht yet. Sunday 27, I attended the service at the English church, where about thirty persons were present. At five in the evening I believe I had eighty or ninety hearers ; and I had much liberty of speech among them. I cannot doubt, but some of them found the word of God to be sharper than a two-edged sword. After service I went once more to Mr. Loten's. Both Mrs. Loten and he. came to town on purpose to see me ; otherwise he could find little comfort there during the present state of affairs. The burghers have all agreed to depose their burgo-masters, and elect new ones in their stead, who are to-morrow to take an oath on a scaffold erected in the open market-place, not to the Prince of Orange, but the city of Utrecht. To this end they had displaced all the Prince's guards, and placed burghers at all the gates. It is thought the example will spread; and it will not be strange if all Holland should soon be a field df blood. Monday 28, We took boat at seven, being informed that at eight all the city gates would be shut. In the evening we reached Rotterdam, and rejoiced to meet good Mr- Loyal once more. Here we rested on Tuesday. Wednesday 30, we set out early, and went twelve miles in a coach, for which we had to pay six guilders and no more. We then crossed the river, which cost four stivers, and hired an open wagon for twenty-three stivers, which brought us to the other river in half an hour. At the Brill we hired another coach, which cost us four guilders. I set down these little things that others may not be cheated. Wednesday 30, We found company enough in our inn at Helvoet- sluys, genteel, good natured, and sensible: but finding our conversa tion was not suited to their taste, we only dined with them on this and the following days. Both on this day, and Thursday and Friday, the wind was quite contrary ; but otherwise we could not have sailed, for it blew a storm : so I took the opportunity of writing a sermon for the Magazine. , Saturday, September 2, The storm abating, we set sail about nine, though the wind was contrary ; but in the afternoon it fell calm. The rolling of the ship made us sick. I myself was sick a few minutes ; Mr. Broadbent (by times) for some hours: Mr. Brackenbury (who did not expect to be sick tit all) almost from the beginning ol the voy age to the end. Sunday 3, When we had been twenty-four hours on board, we were scarcely come a third of our way. I judged we should not get on, un less I preached, which I therefore did, between two and three in the afternoon, on It is appointed for men once to die : and I believe all were affected for the present. Afterwards we had a fair wind for several hours ; but it then fell dead calm again. This did not last long ; for, as soon as prayer was over, a fresh breeze sprung up and brought ns sept. 1786.] rev. john Wesley's jo'urkal. l8fe into the bay. It being then dark, we cast anchor ; and it was well, for at ten at night we had a violent storm. I expected little rest ; but I prayed, and God answered ; so that I slept sound till my usual hour, four o'clock. The wind being again quite contrary, we were obliged to tack continually : but about nine were brought safe to Harwich. After resting about an hour we took chaise, and about one came to Colchester, where Mr. Brackenbury being exceedingly weak, we thought it best to stay till the morning. • In the evening the house was thoroughly filled^ and many received the truth in the- love thereof; so that I did not at all regret my stopping here. Setting out early in the morning, Tuesday' 5, 1 reached London before one o'clock; and transacted most of my business in the after noon. In the evening I preached on Psalm xxix. 9, 10, and the voice of the Lord was indeed with power. Wednesday 6, I answered riry letters, arid on Thursday 7, set out for Bristol. In the evening I reached Newbury. It rained and blew vehemently ; yet the house was thoroughly filled : and I found uncommon liberty in pushing the inquiry, " Who of you are building upon the sand, and who upon a rock ?" Friday 8, in the evening I preached at Bath, to a more numerous congregation than I expected, and more serious, for I do not find there were any careless or inattentive hearers. Saturday 9, we had a good congregation at five, although the weather continued stormy. Afterward I searched to the bottom a story I had heard in part, and found it another "tale of real wo." Two of our society had lived together in uncommon harmony; when one who met iri band with E. F. to whom she had mentioned that she had " found a tempta tion toward Dr. F " went and told her husband " she was in love with hi>n ; and that she had it from her own mouth." The spirit of jealousy seized him in a moment, and utterly took away his reason. And some one telling him his wife was at Dr. F.'s, (on whom she had called that afternoon) he took a great stick, and ran away ; and meeting her in the street, called out, " Strumpet ! Strumpet !" and struck her twice or thrice. He is now thoroughly convinced of her innocence ; but the water cannot be gathered up again ! He sticks there, " I do thoroughly forgive you, but I can never love you more." Sunday 10, Our service began at ten, Mr, Creighton, whose health is a little recovered, by rest, and drinking the mineral waters, read prayers, and assisted at the sacrament, 1 preached on The children are brought to the birth, and there is not strength to bring forth. At half an hour past two we had a much larger congregation, and 1 think equally serious, on whom I enforced the exhortation, 'Come unto me, all ye that are weary and heavy-laden. Irt the evening I opened and largely ap plied those words in the gospel for the day, Verily I say unto you, many 2irophets and kings have desired to see the things which ye see, and have not seen them, and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard litem. Monday 11, Leaving the society here well united together, I went on and preached at Bristol iirthe evening;, and on Tuesday 12, retired to a friend's house, where I went on with Mr. Fi's life without inter- 180 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [sEPl". 178(5. ruption. But on Wednesday 13, I could not resist the desire of my friends, to preach at Temple church in the evening. I never saw it so full in an evening before, nor felt so much of the power of God there, , . Friday 15, I had much satisfaction in the evening at the chapel in Guinea-street. It was thoroughly filled, and most of the people seemed much affected, while, (from Heb. xii. 1,) I described what I take to be the chief besetting sins of Bristol, love of money, and love of, ease. Indeed God has already wrought a great deliverance for many of them ; and we hope a far greater will ensue. , Sunday 17, I preached morning and evening at the room, and in the afternoon at Kingswood, where the work of God seems to stand nearly at one stay, not sensibly increasing or decreasing. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I met the classes at Bristol, and on the re maining days of the week' transcribed the society, considerablv in creased since last year, and I hope in grace as well as in number. Saturday 23, I read the general plan of Monsieur Gebalin's vast work, designed to consist of twelve very large quarto volumes, eight of which are published. The primitive world analysed and compared with the modern. He is a man of a strong understanding, boundless imagination, and amazing industry.' I think his first volume is a beau tiful castle in the air. I admire it, but 1 do not believe one word of it, because it iS" wholly built on the authority of Sanchoniatho, whom no one could ever yet prove to have had a being : and I fear he was a deist : 1, Because he no where lays the least stress upon the Bible : 2, Because he supposes the original confusion of tongues to have been a merely natural event. ' Sunday 24, God was eminently present with us at the morning service as well as at Temple church in the afternoon, which I never saw so filled before, which is not at all strange, considering the spirit of the vicar, and the indefatigable pains which he takes with rich and poor. At five I took the opportunity of a fair evening to preach once more near King's-square : and once more I declared to a large multitude the whole counsel of God. Monday 25, We took coach in the afternoon, and on Tuesday morning reached, London. I now applied myself in earnest to the writing of Mr. Fletcher's life, having procured the best materials I could. To this I dedicated all the time I could spare, till Novem ber, from five in the morning till eight at night. These are my studying hours : I cannot write longer in a day without hurting my eyes. "- Saturday 31, I went to bed at my usual time, half an hour past nine, and to my own feeling, in perfect health : but just at twelve I was waked by an impetuous flux, which did not suffer me to rest many minutes together. Finding it rather increased than decreased, though (what I never knew before) without its old companion the cramp,. 1 sent for Dr. Whitehead. v He came about four, and by the blessing of God in three hours I was as well as ever. Nor did I find the least weakness or faintness, but preached, morning and UCX. 178ti.| REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 187 afternoon, and met the society in the evening without any weariness. Of such a one I would boldly say with the son of Sirach, Honour the physician, for God hath appointed him. Monday, October 2, 1 went to Chatham, and had much comfort with the loving, serious congregation in the evening, as well as at five in the morning, Tuesday 3. We then ran down with a lair, pleasant wind to Sheerness. The preaching-house here is now finished, but by means never heard of. The building was undertaken a few months since, by a little handful of men, without any probable means of finishing it But God so moved the hearts of the people in the dock, that even those who did not pretend to any religion, carpenters, shipwrights, labourers, ran up, at all their vacant hours, and worked with all their might, without any pay ! By these means a large square house was soon elegantly finished, both within and without. And it is the neatest building, next to the New Chapel in London, of any in the south of England. 1 preached in the evening on Stand ye in the old paths, to a lovely congregation, and then showed the society of how great importance it was, that their light should shine before men. And indeed it does shine. They are of one heart and of one mind, striving for the hope of the gospel. I preached at Chatham on Thursday evening, and the next day, Friday 6, returned to London. Tuesday 10, having promised to preach in their new house at Lynn, I thought it best to go while the good weatheT continued. I had ordered two places to be taken in the coach, which would have reached Lynn on Tuesday noon; but my messenger mending my orders, took them in the Diligence, which came in between nine and ten at night. By this means I lost one of three evenings which I proposed to spend there. I spent Wednesday and Thursday with much satisfaction, with a very loving and lively people, increasing in grace as well as in number, and adorning the doctrine of God our Saviour, I had ' appointed to preach Mrs. Shewell's funeral sermon at Barnet, on Friday evening. And as we had only two light persons in the Diligence, and no baggage, I hoped we should have come in, time : but they were vain hopes. We did not reach Hodsdon till after sunset. I then took a post-chaise, for the Diligence went the other road. But as we had a rough by-road across the country, without either moon or stars, we could not reach the -chapel till half an hour after seven. About half the congregation were gone away, an officious man having informed them I would not come. With the other half, which pretty well filled the house, we had a solemn opportunity. So I have lived to see the large family at Hadley, two brothers and three sisters, all removed. So does "the earth-drop its inhabitants as the tree its leaves." Monday 16, 1 went to Hinxworth and preached in the evening to a more numerous congregation than I ever had seen there before. At length Miss Harvey sees some fruit of all the pains she has taken. Tuesday 17, 1 met her poor children in the.morning, twenty of whom 188 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [OCT.- 178ft. she keeps at school in the village, as she is unwearied in doing good. In the evening I preached in Mr. Hicks's church at Wastlingworth. I have not seen such a congregation there for many years. Neither have I found so much of the power of God. Surely all our labour here will not be in vain. Thursday 19, I returned to London. In this journey I had a full sight of Lord Salisbury's seat at Hatfield. The park is delightful. Both the fronts of the house are very handsome, though antique. The hall, the assembly-room, and the gallery, are grand and beauti ful. The chapel is extremely pretty. But the furniture in general, (excepting the pictures, many ol which are originals) is just such as I should expect in a gentleman's house of five hundred a year. Sunday 22, I preached at West-street, morning and afternoon, and at Allhallow's church in the evening. It, was much crowded : and God gave us so remarkable a blessing as I scarcely ever found at that church. Tuesday 24, 1 met the classes at Deptford, and was vehemently importuned to order the Sunday service in our room at the same time with that of the church. It is easy to see that this would be a formal separation from the churehl We fixed both our morning and evening service all over England, at such hours as not to interfere with the church : with this very, design, that those of the church, if they choose it, might attend both the oue and the other. But to fix it at the same hour, is obliging them to sepai ate, either from the church or us. And this I judge to be not only inexpedient, but totally unlawful for me to do. Wednesday 25, I went to Brentford, but had little comfort there. The society is almost dwindled to nothing. What have we gained by separating from the church here ? Is not this a good lesson for others ? Thursday 26, Mr. Holbrook carried us to Hampton-Court, far the finest palace which the King of England has. The buildings are a little town, and nothing can be pleasanter than the park. But above all, the three fronts of the house, the stair-case, and the furniture, ami the pictures in the apartments, are worthy of a king, and not equalled by any in the kingdom in some respects, not by Blenheim itself, which exceeds it only in • its front, in tapestry, and in shockingly immodest pictures. In the evening I preached to a large and serious congregation at Wandsworth. I think it was about two in the morning, that a dog began howling under our window in a most uncommon manner. We could not stop him by any means. Jus*, then William B r died. • Friday 27, I preached once more at Barnet, probably for the last time. Sunday 29, after preaching at West-street, I went directly to St. Giles's, where I preached before I went abroad two or three and fifty years ago. And are they not past as a watch in the night ? My subject was, the Joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth. And truly God confirmed his word. Many seemed to be partakers of that joy. \nd a solemn awe sat on the whole congregation. Monday 31, and the ensuing days. I visited the classes. I was dec. 1786.] rev. john wesley's journal. 189 careful to take an exact account of the poor of the society. I was surprised to find only one hundred and fifty-nine. 1 thought they had been double the number. I hope, by the assistance of God, within four months, to see that none of these want either food or raiment. Friday, November 3, Taking the advantage of a moonlight evening, I went down to the chapel in Rotherhithe. I never saw it so well filled before, nor with such serious and attentive hearers. Is any thing too hard for God ? Shall this wilderness blossom and bud as the rose ? Sunday 5, 1 buried the remains of John Cowmeadow, another martyr to loud and long preaching To save his life, if possible, when he was half dead, I took him to travel with me : but it was too late. ¦ He revived a little, but soon relapsed, and after a few months, died in peace. He had the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, and was of an exemplary behaviour. Tuesday 7, 1 visited the classes, and found them much increased both in grace and number. The house was, as usual, well filled in the evening, and many were refreshed and comforted. Thursday 9, In the evening I preached at Stratford. And under standing I had many good sort of people to deal with, I endeavoured to stir them up, by strongly showing what it is to build upon a rock : after showing them the various ways whereby the generality of good men (so called) usually build upon the sand. Sunday 12, I preached morning and afternoon for the use of our little charity-school, where forty boys and twenty girls are trained up both for this world and the world to come. Monday 13, I retired for a few days to Highbury Place, that I might go on in my work without interruption. 1 returned to town on Thursday 16, and after preaching on 1 Tim. vi. 20, had a com fortable meeting with the bands. Their shyness is vanished away : and we have only one inconvenience : we have not time to hear all those that are willing to speak. Sunday 26, After officiating at West-street morning and afternoon, I took coach at seven in the evening. We had a clear, pleasant night, and reached Norwich about eleven on Monday the 27th. I found all things in peace,, through the zeal and prudence of Jasper Robinson and his fellow-labourers. The congregation in the eve ning was nearly as large as it usually is on Sunday. And more than twice as large at six in the morning, as it is accustomed to be. Tuesday 25, about noon I preached at Cayster, a little town twenty miles east of Norwich, to a little, serious congregation, the greater part of whomseemed to be ripe for a blessing. The house at Yarmouth was thoroughly filled in the evening, and many attended in the morning likewise. Once more the combatants here have laid down their arms, and solemnly promise to continue in peace and love. Wednesday and Thursday I spent comfortably at Lowestoffe, among a quiet, loving people. Friday, December 1, I took a solemn foave of them at six. At nine I preached at North Cove, with much enlargement of spirit, and about eleven at Beccles, to more than their 190 rev. john wesley's journal. [dec. 1786. preaching-house could contain : and all of them appeared as serious and attentive as the congregation at Yarmouth. In the evening there seemed to be a considerable shaking even among the dry bones at Loddon : and such a company attended at Mr. Crisp's in the morning as I never saw there before. Saturday 2, I returned to Harwich, and was much pleased in the evening with the largeness and seriousness of the congregation. Sunday 3, 1 administered the Lord's Supper at eight, and afterwards attended our parish church. Besides the little company that went with me, and the elerk and minister, I think we had five men and six women. And this is a Christian country ! Our house could in no wise contain the congregation, either in the afternoon or in the evening. And at both times great u as the power of God in the midst of them. I have not seen, for many years, such a prospect of doing good in this city. Monday 4, I was strongly importuned by our friends at Long Stratton, to give them a sermon there. I heard of a young woman in that country who had uncommon fits, and of one that had lately preached, but I did not know that it was one and the same person. I found her in the very house to which I went, and went and talked with her at large. I was surprised : Sarah Mallet, two or three and twenty years old, is of the same size that Jane Cooper was, and is, I think, full as much devoted to God, and of as strong an under standing. But she is not likely to live ; having a species of eon- sumption, which I believe is never cured. Of the following rela tion which she gave me, there are numberless witnesses. Some years since, it was strongly impressed upon her, that she ought to call sinners to repentance. This impression she vehe mently resisted, believing herself quite unqualified, both by her sin and her ignorance : till it was suggested, " If you do it not willingly, you shall do it whether you will or no." She fell into a fit, and while utterly senseless, thought she was in the preaching-house in Lowestoffe, where she prayed and preached for nearly an hour, to a numerous congregation. She then opened her eyes, and recovered her senses. In a year or two she had eighteen of these fits : in every one of which she imagined herself to be preaching in one or another congregation. She then cried out, " Lord, I will obey thee, 1 will call sinners to repentance." She has done so occasionally from that time ; and her fits return no more. I preached at one to as many as the house could contain, of people that seemed ready prepared for the Lord. In the evening the hearts of the whole congregation at Norwich seemed to be bow ed as the heart of one man. I scarcely ever saw them so moved. Surely God will revive his work in this place, and we shall not always find it so cold and comfortless as it has lorig been. Tuesday 5, In the afternoon I took coach again, and returned to London at eight on Wednesday morning. AH the time I could JAN. 1787] REV. JOHN wesley's journal: 191 save to the end of the week I spent in transcribing the society, a dull, but necessary work, which I have taken upon myself once a year for nearly these fifty years. Wednesday 13, I retired to Peckham, where the next evening I preached to as many as the house would well contain, and found much liberty of spirit in enforcing upon them, the glorying only in the cross of Christ. Saturday 16, I returned to London. Sunday 17, We had (as usual) a very solemn and comfortable season at Spitalfields. Wednesday 20, I retired to Highbury-Place. But how changed ! Where are the three amiable sisters ? One is returned to her father : one deprived of her reason ; and one in Abraharii's bosom ! Saturday 23, By great importunity I was induced (having little hope of doing good) to visit two of the felons in Newgate, who lay under sentence of death. They appeared serious: but I can lay little stress on appearances of this kind. However, I wrote in their behalf to a great man. And perhaps it was in consequence of this that they had a reprieve. Sunday 24, I was desired to preach at the Old Jewry : but the church was cold, and so was the congregation. We had a congre gation of another kind the next day, Christmas-day, at four in the morning, as well as at five in the evening at the New Chapel, and at West-street Chapel about noon. Sunday 31, From those words of Isaiah to Hezekiah, Set thy house in order, I strongly exhorted all who had not done it already, to settle their temporal affairs without delay. It is a strange madness which still possesses many, that are in other respects men of under standing, who put this off from day to day, till death comes in an hour when they looked not for it. Monday, January 1, 1787, We began the service at four in the morning, to an unusually large congregation. We had another comfortable opportunity at the New Chapel at the usual hour, and a third in the evening at West street. Tuesday 2, I went over to Deptford : but it seemed I was got into a den of lions. Most of the leading men of the society were mad for separating from the church. I endeavoured to reason with them, but in vain : they had neither sense, nor even good manners left. At length, after meet ing the whole society, I told them; "If you are resolved, you may have your service in church hours. But remember, from that time, you will see my face no more." This struck deep : and from that hour I have heard no more of separating from the church. Friday 5, And in the vacant hours of the following days, I read Dr. Hunter's Lectures. They are very lively and ingenious. The language is good, and the thoughts generally just. But they do not all suit my taste. I do not admire that florid way of writing. Good sense does not need to be so studiously adorned. I love St. John's style, as well as matter. Sunday 7, At the desire of many of our friends, we began that vol. 4 — Z 192 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [FEB. 1787. solemn work of renewing our covenant with God at three in the afternoon, two hours earlier than usual. Monday 8, and the four following days, I went a begging for the poor. I hoped to be able to provide food and raiment for those of the society, who were in pressing want, yet had no weekly allowance. These were about two hundred But I was much disappointed. Six or seven indeed of our brethren gave ten pounds a-piece If forty or 'fifty had done this, I could have carried my design into execution. However, much-good was-done with two hundred pounds, and many sorrowful hearts made glad. Sunday 21,1 preached at St. S within' s church, to a numerous and serious congregation. Thursday 25, I went to Dorking, and found a lively and well-established people. Saturday 27, I began the heavy Work of meeting the classes in London. Friday, February 2, 1 endeavoured to reconcile two of our brethren that were at variance. And one of them was veiy willing ; but the other raged like a bear bereaved of her whelps. Sunday 4, While I applied the parable of the sower at the New Chapel, God was with us of a truth. The stout-hearted trembled ; as they did likewise in the evening, while I applied, Many are called, but few chosen. Wednesday 7, I preached at Brentford, (and in the morning ;) Thursday evening at Lambeth. At both places 1 found many who promise not to be forgetful hearers, but doers of the word. Being earnestly desired by our brethren at Newark, one hundred and twenty-four miles from London, to come and open their new house^ I took the mail coach, Friday 9, in the evening, and reached Newark the next day about four in the afternoon But having a great cold, and being so hoarse that I could not preach, I desired Mr. Mather to supply my place till I had recovered my voice. Sunday 11, Having partly recovered my voice, I preached in the new house at nine, a lightsome, cheerful building, and gave notice of preaching at five in the afternoon. But it was not long before 1 re ceived a message from the mayor, to desire me to begin preaching a little later, that himself and several of the aldermen, might the more conveniently attend. They all came at half an hour past five, and as many people as could possibly squeeze in And God opened my mouth to speak strong words, and the hearts of many to receive them. Surely God will have a people in this place that will adorn the doc trine of God our Saviour. Monday 12, There being no places to be. had in the York coach, Mr. Broadbent and I went across the country to Hinckley. 1 now inquired concerning the poor wretch, who, when I was here last, while he was praying to God to damn his eyes, was in the instant struck blind. So it seems he continued for some time. But as soon as he recovered his sight, he was just as profane as before. Although it rained and the people had no notice till we came, yet the preach ing-house was quickly filled. And many, I believe, were filled with peace and joy in the Holy Ghost. FEE. 1787.] REV. JOHN WF.St.Ev's JOURNAL. JUS Tuesday 1 3, Leaving the society here much alive to God, I went on to Coventry. Here finding places vacant in the Liverpool mail coach, we set out in the evening, and reached London the next morning, Wednesday 14. Thursday 15, I preached at Deptford, and was agreeably surprised to find the threatening storm blown over, and all our brethren m peace and love with each other. From hence, on Friday 1 6, I went to Rofherhithe, which used to be one of the most uncomfortable places in England. But it was far otherwise now. Many of the people seemed much alive to God; and his presence was manifested in the congregation in. a very uncommon manner. Saturday 17, I went on in reading that odd book entitled "A Chi nese Fragment." As to the Chinese themselves, I believe they are al most as religious, but nothing near so honest, as the Turks. So^ that 1 account the contrasting them with the Christians to be a mere pious fraud. Du Halde's word I will not take for a straw. But there are many and just remarks in the treatise, to which few impartial men would have any objection, in whatever form they were proposed. Sunday 18, The power of God was, as usual, eminently present during the service at Spitalfields. In the evening 1 met the single women of the society, and advised them to make full useof the advan tages they enjoyed : but I doubt not many had ears to hear : " For when had youth the leisure to he wise V Friday 23, I met our family, and was pleased to find, that we are a family of love. There is not at present one jarring string, but we all hold the unity of the spirit in the bondof peace. Sunday 25, Aftertakinga solemn leave of our friends, both at West- street and the New Chapel, I took the mail-coach, and the next evening reached Exeter a little after ten o'clock. Tuesday 27, we went on to Plymouth-dock. The large new hquse, far the best in the west of England, was well filled, though on so short a warning; and they seemed cordially to receive the exhortation, Rejoice in the Lord, 0 ye righteous. I had the satisfaction to find the society here in a mure flourishing state than ever. Notwithstanding all the pains that have been taken, and all the art that has been used to tear them asunder, they cleave close together, and consequently increase in number as well as in strength. Wednesday 28, We went over to Plymouth, and found the society doubled since I was here before. And they are both more loving than they were then, and more earnest to save their souls. It rained most of the afternoon. However, we had a crowded. congregation in the evening ; and all. of them seemed to feel, that God wasan the midst of them, for his word was sharper than a two-edged sword. In consequence of this, a large number attended at five on Thurs day morning, March 1. Surely this is a time of love for poor Ply mouth also. O that they may know the day of their visitation ! In the evening I preached again at the dock; and again the power of God was present to heal. The people seemed to be all struck, 194 REV. JOHN wesley's journal. [march, 17$ J. while I opened and strongly applied the parable of the sower, espe cially while 1 was warning them to beware of the cares of the world, arid the desires of other things. Friday 2, I was desired to go over to Tarpoint, a village on the Cornish side'of the water. We were attended by a large company from the dock, and a great multitude from all quarters. I suppose a great part of these had never heard this sort of preaching before. They now heard with inexpressible attention, and I believe not in vain. God opened, as it were, the windows of heaven, and sent a gracious rain upon his inheritance I am in hopes a plentiful harvest will spring from the seed which was sown this hour. In the afternoon I went over to Plymouth, and drank tea at Mr. Hooker's, the minister of the New Church. He seems to be a man of an excellent spirit, and is a pattern to all the clergy round about. It rained all the evening ; but that did not hinder the house from being thoroughly filled with people that heard as for life. This congre gation likewise seemed to be, " all but their attention dead." The like has hardly been seen here before. What ! is God about to work in Plymouth also ? Saturday 3, Many attended at five in the morning, although it rained sharply. It likewise blew a storm ; so it did aU the day, as well as in the evening. The house was then crowded indeed, yet there was attention still as night : but God uttered his voice ; yea, and that a mighty voice, insomuch that the stout-hearted trembled. And it seemed as if he would send none empty away. But of these too, though many were called, Ifear, few were chosen. Sunday 4, I began the service at half an hour past nine, and con cluded it before one. I suppose such a number of communicants were never seen before at Plymouth-dock ; but there was no disorder or hurry at all. There was more difficulty in the evening. The throng was so great that it was impossible for me to get through them to the pulpit. So at length they made shift to lift me over the seats. Again God spoke in his word, I believe to all that could get in ; but some could not, and were constrained to go away. Monday 5, the house was well filled again, both above and below. And after a sol emn parting, we took coach at six, leaving such a flame behind us as was never kindled here before: God grant that it may never be put out ! i We reached Exeter between two and three. In the evening I preached on By grace ye are saved through faith, to as many as could possibly squeeze into the room. It was a glorious opportunity. God uttered his voice, and that a mighty one : it seemed to break the rocks in pieces, to make the stout-hearted tremble, I know not that I ever saw such an impression made on the people of Exeter before. Wednesday 7, It rained much while we were at Plymouth and at the dock, and most of the way from the dock to Exeter. But we had lovely weather to-day, and came, into Bath early in the eve ning. So crowded a house I had not seen here for many years. I fully delivered my own soul, by strongly enforcing those awful words. MARCH, 1787.] REV, JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 1!>;> Many are called, but few are chosen. I believe the word sunk deep into many hearts, the next evening we had another large con gregation equally serious. Thursday 8, I went on to Bristol, and the same afternoon Mrs. Fletcher came thither from Madeley, The con gregation in the evening was exceedingly large. 1 took knowledge what spirit they were of. Indeed the work of God has much in creased in Bristol since I was here last, especially among the young men, many of whom are a pattern to all the society. Friday 9, 1 went Over to Kingswood, and found the school in a better state than I expected, considering the want of a second mas ter,, which they had for some time laboured under. Saturday 10, I had the pleasure of an hour's conversation with Mrs. Fletcher. She appears to be swiftly growing , in grace and ripening for a better world. I encouraged her to do all the good she could during her short stay in Bristol. Accordingly she met in the following week, as many of , the classes as her time and strength would permit : and her words were as fire, conveying both light and heat to the hearts of all that heard heT. Sunday 11, We had a solemn season at the room, both in the morning and evening, and also in the afternoon, at Kingswood, where the work of God revives as well as at Bristol. I strongly warned the people of Bristol of their indolence, through which the preacher had twelve, ten, or five hearers in a morning, and advised them to shake it off. Many of them did so : and I suppose we had three hundred on Monday morning ; one hundred and fifty on Satur day, and between two and three hundred every morning of the week besides. Monday 12, and on the four days following, I met the. society : they were considerably increased, both in grace and number. In the evening we had a Sundays congregation,' and a very uncommon pouting out of the Spirit. If this continue, the society in Bristol will soon vie with that in Dublin, On Thursday 15, we had such another shower of grace : many were wounded and many healed. Yesterday, that blessed saint, Sarah Bulgin, went to rest, in the full triumph of faith. Sunday 18, I preached her funeral sermon to a listening multitude, and ha 1 such a number of communicants as was never seen together ai Bristol room before. In the evening we had a love-feast ; at which Mrs. Fletcher simply declared her present experience. I know no one that is so changed for the better in a few years, even in her manner of speaking. It is now smooth, easy, and natural, even when the sense is deep and strong. Monday 19, I left Bristol with much satisfaction, expecting to hear of a plentiful harvest there ; and in the evening preached at Stroud. The house was unusually filled both with people and with the power of God.. Tuesday 20, We had a large congregation at five. Afterwards I met the select society, many of them enjoyiug the pure love of God, and constantly walking in the light of his counte nance. We then visited one that was always sick and in pain, and always rejoicing in God. Another man we found nearly in the 196 REV. JOHN wesley's journal. [march, 1787. sairie condition; always afflicted and always happy. Mrs. Wathen, a few doors from them, left by a most affectionate husband with six children, is a pattern to all about her. I walked from hence through one of the loveliest valleys I ever saw, running With a clear stream in the midst of it, between two lofty and fruitful mountains, sprin kled all over with little white houses. Between eleven and twelve I reached Cirencester ; and no larger place being to be procured, I preached at one in our own room, to as many as could hear, either in or near it : and the labour was not lost : they all drunk in the word, as the thirsty earth the showers. In the evening I preached to a multitude of people in the Tolbooth at Gloucester. High and low> rich and poor behaved well. I trust a good blessing is coming to Gloucester also. > Wednesday 21, We had a numerous congregation at six, on whom I strongly enforced the great salvation. About eleven I had the satisfaction of spending an hour with the bishop, a sensible, candid, and, I hope, a pious man. The palace in which he lives, (once the priory, , is a venerable place, quite retired and elegant, though not splendid ; the chapel, in particular, fitted up by good Bishop Benson : the hall is noble, as are also two or three of the bed chamber?. But how soon must all these change their possessor ! Finding prejudice was now laid asleep, the tide running the con trary way, our friends thought it tune to prepare for building their preaching-house, and a hundred pounds are already subscribed. In the evening I preached to a larger congregation than ever ; but all was still as night : and once more in the morning, on Whosoever doeth the will of God is my brother, sister, and mother. Thursday 22, about noon I preached at Tewkesbury, to the largest congregation I have seen there for many years : and in the evening. to our lovely and loving people at Worcester, plain, old genuine Methodists. Friday 23, Notice having been given, though Without my know ledge, I went over to Stourport, a small, new built village, almost equally distant from Bewdly and from Kidderminster. I had seen Mr. Heath before, (a middle-aged clergyman who is going over to Cokesbury-college, and is, I believe, thoroughly qualified to preside there) I met his wife and two daughters here, who are quite willing to bear him company. And I think their tempers and manners, so " Winiring soft, soamiahly mild," will do him honour wherever they come. At noon, abundance of people being gathered together from all parts, I preached on Isaiah liii. 6, 7. We have not had such an opportunity since we left Bristol : the stout-hearted trembled ; and every one seemed almost persuaded to be a Christian. The congre gation at Worcester in the evening seemed to be of the same spirit; and God spoke to every heart. Saturday 24, I went on to Birmingham; but my hoarseness in- MARCH, 1787.] REV. JOHN WESLEy's JOURNAL. 197 creased, so that I was afraid the people would not hear me in the eve ning; but they did, though the congregation was uncommonly large. Sunday 25, having promised to read prayers and administer the sacrament, I knew not how I should do : but, as we were going to the house,. Mr. Heath, just come to town, overtook us : so he read prayers, and assisted me in delivering -the sacrament to seven or eight hundred communicants. In the evening the house at Birming ham, as it was rainy, contained half (I suppose) of those that would willingly have come in. Those that could get in found it an accept able time, and .we all praised God with joyful lips. Monday 26, I spent an agreeable hour with the select society. Most of them still enjoy the pure love of God, and the rest are ear nestly panting after it. I preached in the evening at the request of a friend, on 2. Cor. v. ' 9, &c. Many seemed to receive the word with all readiness, and I trust will bring forth fruit with patience. Tuesday 27, I went on to Wednesbury. As it rained great part of the afternoon, most of the congregation could get into the house ; and I took knowledge of the ancient spirit, although most of our first hearers are gone to rest. Wednesday 28, About ten Mr. Home, from Madeley, read prayers in the church at Darlastori, and I preached on those words of Ruth, in the first lesson, Thy people shall be my people, and thy God shall be my God. We have had no such time since I left Bristol. The flame of love seemed to melt many hearts, What has God done for Darlaston ! How are the last become first ! In the evening I opened the new house at Wolverhampton, nearly as large as that at Newcastle-upon-Tyne. It would not nearly con tain the people, though they were wedged together as closely as pos sible i I believe such a congregation was never seen in Wolver hampton before : not only so serious, but so well behaved. I hope this is a token for good.' Thursday 29, About twelve I preached at Lane-End. It being too cold to stand abroad, tbe greattr part of the earnest congrega tion squeezed into the pi eaching-house. Here we entered into the country which seems to be all on fire, that which borders on Burslem, on every side ; preachers and people provoking one another to love and good works in such a manner as was never seen before. In the evening I preached at Burslem. Observing the people flocking to gether, I began half an hour before the appointed time ;• but notwith standing this, the house would not contain one-half of the congrega tion : so, while I was preaching in the house to all that could get in, John Broadbent preached in a yard to the rest : the love-feast fol lowed, but such a one as I have not known for many years. While the two or three first spoke, the power of God so fell upon all that were present, some praying and others giving thanks, that their voices could scarcely be heard : and two or three were speaking at a time, till I gently advised them to speak one at atime, and they did so with amazing energy. Some- of them had found peace a year ago, some within a month or a week, some within a day or two; and one of them, a pot- 198 REV. JOHN WF.SLF.Y:S JOURNAL. [APRIL, 1787. ter's boy, told us, " At the prayer meeting I found myself dropping into hell ; and I cried to the Lord, and he showed me he loved me : but Satan came immediately, and offered me a bag of money as long as my arm ; but I said, ' Get thee behind me, Satan.' " Several also testified that the blood of Christ had cleansed them froin all sin. Two declared, after bitter cries, that they knew their sins were just then blotted out by the blood of the Lamb. And I doubt not bat it will be found, upon inquiry, that several more were either justified or sanc tified. Indeed there has been for some time such an outpouring of the Spirit here, as has not been in any other part of. the kingdom; particularly in the meetings for prayer ; fifteen or twenty have been justified in a day : some of therri had been the most notorious, aban doned sinners in all the country. And people flock into the society on every side ; six, eight, Or ten. in an evening. Friday 30, I had appointed to preach at five in the morning: but soon after four I was saluted by a concert of music, both vocal and .instrumental, at our gate, making the air ring, with a hymn to the tune of Judas Maccabeus. It was a good prelude : so I began almost half an hour before five, yet the house was crowded both above and below. I strongly, but very tenderly, enforced that caution, Let him that standeth take heed lest he fall : and is not God able to make them stand ?, Yea, and he will do it, if they walk humbly with God. In the evening I preached at Congleton to a serious and well-es tablished peOple. Here I found my coeval, Mr. Troutbeck, two months, I think, younger than I, just as a lamp going out for want of oil, gently sliding into a better world He sleeps always, only waking now and then just long enough to say, " I am happy." Saturday 31, I went on to Macclesfield, arid found a people still alive to God, in spite of swiftly increasing riches. If they continue so, it will be the only instance I have known in above half a century. I warned them in the strongest terms I could, and believe some of them had, ears to hear. Sunday, April 1, Fearing nothing so much lest a people so much at ease should settle upon their lees, I preached at the new church in the most awakening manner I could, on Rev.'xx. 12, " I saw agreat white throne coming down from heaven." I then hastened to Manchester, and endeavoured to convince a crowded congregation of the full spiritual meaning of these important words, By grace ye are saved through faith. Monday 2, About noon I preached at Stockport, and in the eve ning at Manchester, where I fully delivered my own soul both then and the next day. Wednesday 4, I went to Chester, and preached in the evening on Heb. iii. 12. Finding there was no packet at Parkgate, I immediately took, places in the mail-coach for Holyhead. The porter called us at two in the morning on Thursday, but came acaih in half an hour to inform us the coach was full; so they returned my money, and at four I took a post-ohaise. We overtook the coach at Conway, and crossing the ferry with the passengers, went for ward without delay : so we came to Holyhead an hour before them, april, 1787.] rev. john wesley's journal; v 199 and went on board the Le De Spenser between eleven ¦ and twelve o'clock. At one we left the harbour, and at two the next day came into Dublin Bay. On the road, and in the ship, I read Mr Blackwell's Sacred Clas sics Illustrated and Defended. I think he fully proves his point, that there are no expressions in the New Testament which are not found in the best and purest Greek authors.. In the evening we had a Sun day's congregation, and a blessing from on high. 1 then retired to my lodgings, which were at Arthur Keen's, about half a mile out of town ; a pleasant, healthy spot, where were peace and love, and plenty of all things. Sunday 8, (Easter-day) I preached in Bethesda, Mr. Smyth's new chapel : it is very neat, but not gay, and I believe will hold about as many people as West-street chapel. Mr. Smyth read prayers, and gave out the hymns, which were sung by fifteen or twenty fine singers : the rest of the congregation listening with much attention and as much devotion, as they would have done to an opera. - But is' this Christian worship ? Or ought it ever to be suffered in a Christian church ? It was thought we had between seven and eight hundred communicants : and indeed the power of God was in the iriidst of them. Our own room in the evening was well filled with people, and with the presence of God. Afterward, we had a love- feast, which, I suppose, might have . continued till midnight, if all had spoken that were ready to speak. On Monday and Tuesday I preached again at Bethesda, and God touched several hearts, even of the rich and great : so that, for the time at least, they were "almost persuaded to be Christians." It seems as if the good providence of God had prepared this place, for those rich and honourable sinners, who will not deign to receive any message from God, but in a genteel way. Wednesday 11, By conversing with many of our friends I found they were still increasing in grace as well as in number. The society now contains upwards of a thousand members, so that it has outrun all in England but that of London. After this amazing flow we must expect an ebb ; it will be well if only two hundred of these fall away. On Thursday and Friday the congregations were still uncommonly large, and seemed to feel all that was spoken. Saturday 14^ Even at the Gravel- walk, where the congregation used to be small enough, the house was crowded in the evening : although the soldiers (seventy or eighty of whom are in the society) could not attend, it being the hour of their roll:calling. Sunday 15, I preached first at the new-room, and afterwards at Bethesda. Many fair blossoms we see here also; and surely some fruit will follow. In the evening our house could not contain the congregation, though, they squeezed together as closely as pos sible. I believe few of them heard in vain. Such attention sat on every face as I seldom see even in Bristol or London. Monday 16, I set out early, and preached at Prosperous about ten, to a numerous congregation : and, although I had eome ten vol. 4 — A a iOW rev. john wesley's journal. [a pull, 1787. miles out of my way, I did not regret my labour,. In the evening we came to Philipstown, which we had forsaken for nearly forty years : yet at length there is a prospect of good : a little society is formed, and some troopers, who are part of it, keep all the town in awe. The congregation was as quiet as that in Dublin, both in the evening and at seven in the morning. Here is seed sown once more ; and God is able to give a plentiful harvest. Tuesday 17, I crossed over to my old friends at Tyrrel's-pass. 'It was supposed the house would hold the congregation in the even ing, but it would hardly contain a fourth part of them : so I preached in the yard, not only to Protestants, but (I was informed) most of the Papists in the town : and we found God was no respecter of per sons. Wednesday 18, the house was well filled in the morning, and we had a comfortable season ; as also at Coolylough in the evening, where God spoke to many hearts, Thursday 19, About noon I preached at Kenagh to a numerous congregation. For many years we seemed to be beating the air here. But a few months since God, so blessed the preaching of poor John Bredin, just tottering over the grave, that we have now a lively society, swiftly increasing both in grace and number. We went hence to Longford, where a multitude of people soon assem bled in the town-halL I found much liberty of speech^ and I have seldom seen a congregation more affected. I observed one genteel woman, who kept her eyes fixed, from the beginning to the end ; and was agreeably surprised when she called upon me, to find one of my old flock at Castlebar. Once more she has set her hand to the plough. May she never look back! Friday 20, I went to Athlone, and preached in the. evening to a congregation of deeper experience than any I had seen since I left Dublin; yet the next day I thought it expedient to press upon them the advice, of the apostle, Let him that assuredly standeth, (so it should be rendered) take heed lest he fall. Sunday 22, I opened and applied that glorious text, The help that is done upon earth he doth it himself. Is it not strange that this text, Psalm lxxiv. 13, is vanished out of the new translation of the Psalms ! I found the work of God much increased here And it is a. favourable circumstance, that of the three ministers in the town two are our fast friends, and the third no enemy. The. wind driving us, into the house at six, we were crowded sufficiently : afterwards 1 administered the sacrament to the society, and not without a remark able blessing, Monday, 23, having taken leave of our affectionate friends at Athlone, I went on to Ballinasloe. But here we were at a loss ; the usual preaching-place would not contain half the people : and the wind was so high and so extremely. cold, that they could not stand abroad: however, we made the best shift we could with two rooms, together with the passage and stairease. I strongly explained, what it is to build upon the sand. And all that could hear seemed to re ceive the word gladly. Some, I hope, will bring forth fruit with patience. APRIL, 1787.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S .TOUR.HAL". 201 The church at Aughrim was so filled in the evening as it scarcely ever was before. I believe, God enabled me to find the way to the hearts both of Protestants and Roman Catholics. I never saw so general an impression made on the people of this town before. Inthe morning, Tuesday 24, the preaching-house was well filled ; and I ex horted them in St. John's words, "Look to yourselves, that ye lose not the things which ye have gained, but that ye receive a full reward." I did not ,find either so large or so serious a congregation in the church at Eyre -court. I preached between ten and eleven to a number of unconcerned hearers, and then went on to Birr. . There has been lately a great shaking among the dry bones here. The congregations are much increased, and hear with deep atten tion, and several members have been added to the society. I would fai.i have preached in the square as I did before, but the wind and rain did not permit : so, as many as could, crowded into the preach ing-house. I preached on / am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ ; a subject which, it seemed, suited the hearers, many of whom are hindered chiefly by evil shame, from being altogether Christians. Wednesday 25, I once more visited my old friends at Tullamore. Have all the balloons in Europe done so much good as can counter balance the harm, which one of them did here a year ortwo ago? It took fire in its flight, and dropped it down on one and another of the thatched houses so fast, that it was not possible to quench it till most of the town was burnt down. I preached in the assembly- room to a large congregation, a few of whom are still alive to God. In the morning, for the sake of good old Matthew Moor, who is not likely to hear me again, I preached in his parlour, to as many as that and the other roOms would contain, on Luke xx. 34, &c. "They neither marry nor are given in marriage: neither can they die any more, for they are equal to angels, and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection." Thursday 26, About noon I preached at Portarlington, not in the noisy market-place, but in our own house, thoroughly filled with attentive hearers, In the evening I preached in the church at Mount-,Mellick, larger than either that at Eyrecourt or Aughrim ; and the whole congregation behaved well : I have seen few such since I left Dublin.' Friday 27, We went to Kilkenny, nine and twenty Irish miles from Mount- Mellick. Religion was here at a low ebb, and scarcely any society left, when God sent three troops of horse, several of the men are full of faith and love ; since they came, the work of God has revived. I never saw the house so filled since it was built. And the power of God~ seemed to rest upon the congregation as if he would still have a people in this place. Saturday 28, I preached in the morning to about a hundred people at Kilkenny, on the general judgment. They seemed to feel what was spoken. I left Mr. Kane behind me for two or three days, to follow the blow. And I trust, before he leaves the town, God will lay such a foundation even there as shall never be overthrown. £02 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [MAY, 1787. We reached Carlow before noon, and were much refreshed with the hearty affection of our brethren, who had not forgotten me, though I had not visked them for nearly sixteen years. In the eve ning I preached at the assembly-room, to a large and tolerably serious congregation. They seemed more serious in the morning^ Sunday'29, when I spoke in a mannner more suited to their capaci ties, in largely explaining and strongly enforcing, our Lord's One thing is needful. The church is far the neatest, though not fine, of any I have seen since we left Dublin. The rector came after service, and spent nearly an hour with us in friendly conversation. In the evening I would have preached in the open air, but the wind was too cold and too high: so I applied the 13th of 1st Epist. of Corinthi ans in the assembly-room, to the most serious congregation I have seen at Carlow. And here is a plentiful harvest ; the rather, because several of the troopers quartered here, are much alive to God, and adorn in all things the doctrine of God our Saviour. Monday 30, We w6nt over high and steep mountains, interspersed with lovely valleys, to Buncloady ; now called Newtown- Barry, one of the pleasantest towns which I have seen in the kingdom. Here we rejoiced to meet Mrs. Cookman, with sister (Henry) Moore, and Miss Acton, from Dublin, who came on purpose, and willingly accom panied us to Waterford, and thence to Clonmell. I preached in the assembly-room here also ; but to a congregation very little awakened : but how soon can our Lord say to any of these, "Lazarus, come forth!" About noon we reached Enniscorthy. Here likewise the use of the assembly-room was" promised ; but a clergyman, (whose father died in black despair, crying out, " The room was full of devils,") caused that promise to be retracted. So I stood in a large yard, and though it blew a storm, we had an exceedingly large congregation, three, or perhaps four times as many as the assembly-rOom would have Con tained: I preached on If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him. To avoid the ferry, we went the mountain way, and about five came to Wexford. Were ever assembly-rooms put to better use ? That in Wexford, wherein I preached, was one of the largest I ever saw : and high and low, rich and poor, flocked together; and it seemed as if many of them were ripe for the gospel. I expect there will be a good harvest in this place. Tuesday, May 1, Setting out early in the morning between nine and ten I preached in the church at old Ross, to a large company of as plain country people as ever I saw in Yorkshire. We reached Waterford between two and three : at, six I preached' in the court house to an immense congregation, while a file of musketeers, ordered by the mayor, paraded at the door. Two or three hundred attended in the morning, and gladly received the whole truth. In the evening the congregation was larger than before, and equally attentive. Thursday 3, 1 took my leave, of this .earnest, loving people, and went on through a delightful country to Clonmell. At six I preached in the court-house : I was much surprised : I know not when I MAY, 1787.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL, 203 have seen so well-dressed, and ill- behaved a congregation : but I was told, that it. was the same Way that they behaved at church. Pity, then, that they do not turn Papists. The Church of England needs no such members : they are no honour to it. Friday 4, With great difficulty we got over a most horrid road to Cappoquin : but that from thence to Tallow (eight miles) was ex ceedingly pleasant ; the remaining ten miles were very tolerable, so that we reached Youghall in good time. The court-house was thoroughly filled at six, and above half filled at five in the morn ing. Saturday 5, we went on to Cork : the latter part of the journey was pleasant beyond description. At a very small distance on the left hand, the river , " Rolled its sinuous train;" beyond which were shady trees, covering a steep hill, and rising row above row. On the right we had another sloping mountain, tufted over with trees ; sometimes forming one green even wall, sometimes scattered up and down. Between these appeared several beautiful seats, some of them fit for noblemen. . At six in the evening the preaching-house, would ill contaiti tbe congregation. And many of the rich and honourable were among them ! Who hath warned these to flee from the wrath to come ? Sunday 6, We had an evening congregation at seven, whom I warned to order their conversation aright. At three in the afternoon I preached on the road to a numerous congregation: but many of them, especially the genteeler sort, were rude as colts untamed. We stowed the people together in Jhe evening as closely as it was possi ble : but still many were constrained to go away, finding no place, even at the door. Monday 7, The congregation at five in the morning was little inferior to that we used to see on. Sunday evening. This time also we had many of the gay and honourable, who seem at present almost persuaded to be Christians. O what shoals of half-awakened sinners will be broad awake when it is too late. On Tuesday likewise the congregations were exceedingly large, and deep attention sat on every face. Wednesday 9, We went to Bandon : here also there has been a remarkable work of God, and yet not without many backsliders. It was therefore my chief business here to Strengthen the weak, and recall the wanderers. So in the evening I preached in the assembly- room, (which was offered me by the provost,) on How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? And God applied his" word. I believe there was a general melting among the people, and many purposed to return to God. But the room was exceedingly hot, and extremely crowded ; and yet would not nearly contain the congregation. Thursday 10, the, preaching-house was filled at five in the morning; and again I applied directly to backsliders, and found a strong hope, that the times of refreshing will soon come from.the presence of the Lord. 204 rev. john wesley's journal. [way, 1787'. At noon we took a walk to Castle-Barnard. Mr. Barnard haS given it a beautiful front, nearly resembling that of Lord Mansfield's house at Cane- Wood, and opened part of his lovely park to the house, which I think has now as beautiful a situation as Rockingham- house in Yorkshire. Mr. Barnard much resembles in person and air, the late Sir George Saville. Though he is far the richest per son in these parts, he keeps no race horses or hounds, but loves his wife and home, and spends his time and fortune in improving his estate, and employing the poor. Gentlemen of this spirit are a blessing to their neighbourhood. May God increase their number! In the evening finding no building would contain the congregation, I stood in the main street, and testified to a listening multitude, This is not your rest. I then administered the Lord's-Supper to the society, and God gave us a remarkable blessing. Friday 11, I took an affectionate leave of oUr friends at five. I left them full of good desires and resolutions. Calling on one that was ill at Innishannon, word was quickly brought me, that the peo ple were flocking together to the preaching-house. It was soon filled from end to end; and I preached to them Jesus Christ made of God to us wisdom, righteousness, sanctifioation, and redemption. About noon I preaehed in the court-house at Kinsale to a very- large congregation ; but how different from that which I had in the bowling-green two years ago ! That was one of the most indecent, ill-mannered congregations that ever I saw in Ireland : this was as eminently Well-behaved ; the sovereignand many genteel persons being among them. It was no wonder' to see the congregation at Cork, in the evening, equally well-behaved : so they always are; the chief of the, city being no longer bitter enemies, but cordial friends. Saturday 12, A gentleman invited me to breakfast with my old antagonist, Father O'Leary. I was not at all displeased at being dis appointed. He is not the stiff, queer man that I expected ; but of an easy genteel carriage, and seems not to be wanting either in sense or learning. In the afternoon, by appointment, I waited on the mayor, an upright, sensible man, who is diligently employed, from morning to night, in doing all the good he can. He has already prevailed upon the corporation to make it a fixed rule, that the, two hundred a year, which was spent in two entertainments, should, for the future, be employed, in relieving indigent freemen, with their wives and children. He has carefully regulated the House of Industry, and has instituted a Humane Society for the relief of persons seemingly drowned. And he is unwearied in removing abuses of every kind. When will our English mayors copy after the mayor of Cork ? He led me through the mayoralty-house, a very noble and beautiful structure. The dining-room and the ball room are magnificent, and shame the mansion-house in London by their situation, commanding the whole river, the- fruitful hills on every side, and the meadows running between them. He was then so good as to walk with me, quite through the city, to the House of MAY, 1787.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 205 Industry, and to go with me through all the apartments, which are quite sweet and commodious. A hundred and ninety-two poor are . now lodged therein ; and the master, (a pious man, and a member of our society,) watches over them, reads with them, and prays with them, as if they were his own children. Sunday 13, We had a very comfortable opportunity, at eight in Cork. At three Mr Broadbent preached on the parade. At five, as we removed the benches and stowed the people close together, the room contained most of the people. And I took a solemn leave of them, after closely applying our Lord's question, Do ye now believe ? Monday 14, We went to K.ilfinane, about twenty Irish miles (so I compute) from Mallow. I preached in the court-house, about seven, to a large and serious audience, and again at five in the morning, Tuesday 15. We then went on, through a delightful country, to Limerick.. Here were always an affectionate people ; but I never found them so much so as now. It was too cold in the evening to stand abroad : so we squeezed, as many as possible, into the preaching-house. I preached on Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart. Many here once experienced this ; but few, if any, retain it now ! Wednesday 16, The congregation at five filled the house almost as well as it was filled iri the evening. Finding a remarkable dead- ness, I inquired what were the reasons of it, and found, 1, There had been for several months a deep misunderstanding between the preachers and the chief of the society : hence, on the one hand, the preachers had little life or spirit to preach, and on the other, the congregation dwindled away : 2, Many had left off meeting their bands, and many others seldom met their classes : 3, Prayer-meet ings were entirely given up. What wonder if all the people were grown dead as stones ! In the evening I endeavoured to re-awaken those that were settling upon their lees, by strongly applying those solemn words, The first shall be last, and the last first ; for many are called, but few are chosen. In the morning, Thursday 17, I endeavoured to stir them up once more to hunger and thirst after righteousness, after the whole image of God, without which they will still remain " Cold, languid, weary, heartless, dead." After morning service I met the stewards and leaders, and inquired into the rise of the late misunderstanding. I found the matter itself was nothing ; but want of patience on both sides had swelled the mole-hill into a mountain. O how patient, how meek, how gentle toward all men, ought a preacher, especially a Methodist, to be ! In the afternoon I walked through all the parts of the workhouse, called in Ireland, the House of Industry. It is pleasantly situated on a rising ground near the river, and I believe would contain about three hundred persons. (That at Dublin contains six hundred.) At 20ti REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. |_MAY, 1787. present there are about eighty persons there, the contributions fall ing short. The apartments are large, airy, and sweet ; and the poor, most of whom are employed, seem contented. Every time 1 preached, I found more and more hope that God will revive his work in this city. I know 'he will, if the prayer- meetings are restored : these are never without fruit. Friday 18, I set out early in the morning and reached Castlebay about four in the afternoon. I had much conversation with Mrs. Persse, a woman of many sorrows : but when she has been tried, she shall come forth as gold In the evening I preached at Killchrist, about four miles from Cas tlebay. The number of people constrained me to stand in the open air, though the wirid was high and cold. They were all attentive and serious, except one young gentleman, who would fain have laughed if he could : but his sport was quickly spoiled ; and before the sermon was half over, he was as serious as his neighbours. Saturday 19, In two hours and a half we came to Athenry, the rival of Kilmallock, once a flourishing city, now a heap of ruins ; but even these are now covered with earth. It was built by King John, as well as the other, and seems by its walls to have been one of the largest cities in the kingdom. Being wrongly directed when we left this, we got almost to Galway, going about six miles out of our way to Cahir-Morriss. However, I reached Ballinrobe in time to preach to a large and well-behaved (although genteel) congrega tion. I preached again at eight in the morning, Sunday 20, and then hastened onto C^astlebar. We went straight to church. I preached at five in our new house, I think larger than that at Li merick, and throughly filled with as attentive a congregation as any I have seen in the kingdom. Monday 21, Little misunderstandings between themselves have continually hindered the work of God in this society. This morn ing I heard the contending parties face to face, and once more made them friends. A numerous congregation listened with all at tention in the evening; to that, important word of our Lord, Who soever doth the will of God, the same is~my brother, and sister, and mother. Tuesday 22, one of the.men confined for murder, earnest ly importuned me to visit him I did so ; but he seemed as dead as a^tone : and 1 did not wonder ; for such an action, performed in cool blood, I never heard of before. Mr. M'Donnel, who had his leg wounded by one shot, and both his. arms broke by another, was sitting on the ground when this wretch came and presented a blun derbuss : he begged only five minutes to say his prayers : Andrew swore, " No, not one ;" and instantly shot him through the heart ! This whole transaction, from the beginning to the end, containing ' such a series of calm, deliberate murder, perpetrated with such shocking circumstances, is hardly to be paralleled in history. Some time since a shrewd man said, " This country will never be in quiet till one of these men has murdered the other, and then is hanged for it." liAY, 17S7.J REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOUilNAt. S!lW Wednesday 23, Leaving our little "society in peace and love, we' went by Swineford to Sligo. At six I preached in the new court house, a very spacious and commodious building, to a more numer ous and more attentive congregation than I have seen here for manv years. A large congregation was present again at five iri the morn ing, Thursday 24 ; so that I am not without hope the work of God may at length revive here also. I had purposed going straight from hence to Arinadale ; but notice had been given of my preaching at Manor-hamilton. It is true, this was five or six miles out of my way, and abundantly worse road. However, I would not disap point the poor people, although by this means Mr. Slack's, dinner was delayed till near six o'clock* I preached at seven to a very serious congregation, and passed a comfortable evening. Friday 25, I had a day of rest in this' lovely family, only preach ing morning and evening. Saturday 20, I preached at Ballyconnel about eleven. In the afternoon I took a walk in the bishop of Kil- more's garden. The house is finely situated ; bas two fronts, and is fit for a nobleman We then went into the church-yard and saw the venerable tomb, a plain- flat stone, inscribed, Deposituth Gulielmi Redek quondam Episcopi Kilmorensis ; over whom even the rebel army sung, •" Requiescat in pace u'ltimus Anglorum." " Let the last of the Englishmen rest in peace." At sevCn I preached to a large congregation : it blew a^torm, but most of the congre gation were covered by a' kind of shed raised for tile purpose : and not a few were greatly comforted. Sunday 27, I preached in Cavan at seven, and then hastened for ' ward to Clones, leaving, Mr. Broaifoent to preach at Ballyhays, which he did with good- effect: biit I needed not to have been iri such haste ; for the church service did not begin till twelve. Such ' a number of communicants, I suppose,1 was never seen at this church before. -The service ended abmit half past three. The question then was, Where 1 should preach ? The furious wind and violent rain .made it impracticable to pt each (where I attended) at the head of the market-place : but I irftule shift to stand oil one side of it, in a door-way, where I' was pretty we'll sheltered.' Although the. poor people were' exposed to heavy rain during the whole ser-, mon, none of them seemed to regard it. And God did indeed send a gracious rain upon their souls, so that many rejoiced with joy un speakable. ' Mori. 28, Having all the parties together, I inquired into mi odd affair which occurred here a few months' ago. •¥. B'., leader of the class' of single women, and always hitherto of an Unblemished cha racter, "was accuse'd of immodesty by Mr. A— — , in Whoso house she had lived for several years. 1 found tiiH ;i.:',i-itioii to he totally groundless1; 2, John Carr,- one of our olde-t members, with a few others, spent an hour in reading. and prayer, while a local preacher . was reading a sermon at the room. -This was represented to the assistant as done in :a spirit of opposition, and as an intention ot' fcaving the society, (a thing which never citr.i-ed ;uto their thoughts" vol. 4 — B b 2C^j REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [MAY, 1787. and he was urged to read them out of the society : accordingly he read out fourteen at once. I could not find, Upon the strictest in quiry, that they had been guilty of any fault" but meeting together that evening : so 1 willingly received them all again ; requiring only one condition of the contenders on both sides, To say not one word of any thing that was past. The Spirit of peace and love gloriously descended on them all at the evening preaching, while I wasexr plaining the fruit of the Spirit. They were again filled with conso lation at the Lord's Supper, and again in the morning, while Mr. Broadbent applied, Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith the Lord. Tuesday 29, The old murderer is restrained from hurting me ; but it seems he' has power over my horses. One of them I was obliged to leave in Dublin, and afterwards another ; having bought two to supply their places ; the third soon got an ugly swelling in his shoulder, sothat we doubted whether we could go on. And a boy at Clones, riding (I suppose galloping) the fourth over stones, the horse fell and nearly lamed himself: however, we went on softly to Aughalun, and found such a congregation as I had not seen before in the kingdom. The tent (that is a covered pulpit) was placed at the foot of a- green, sloping mountain, on the side of which the huge multitude sat (as their manner is.) row above row. '• While I was explaining God has given unto us his Holy Spirit, he was indeed poured out in a wonderful manner. Tears of joy and cries were heard on every side : only so far suppressed as not to drown my voice. I cannot but hope that many will have cause to bless God for that hour to all eternity. I preached at Lisbelaw, another little village, about six. in the evening : the small rain continued all the time ; but that did not liiqder the people from mightily rejoicing in him, who causes "the earth to bring forth at once, and a nation to be born in a day." Wednesday 30, a large room, designed for an assembly-room, was filled in the morning :¦ and the poor people appeared to be quite ripe for the highest doctrine of the gospel : so I exhorted them, leaving the first principles, to go on to perfection. Abi>ut eleven I preached in the market-house at Inniskillen, formerly a den of lions : but the lions are becoirie lambs. ~ They flocked together from every part, and were all attention Before I had half done, God made bare his arm, and the mountains flowed down at his presence. Many were cut to the heart, and many rejoiced with joy unspeakable. Surely the last shall be first : and poor Inniskillen shall lift up its head above many of the places where the gospel has been long preached. In the evening Ipreached to another numerous congregation at Sidare, a large house at the foot of the mountains. One would wonder whence all the people came ; they seemed to spring out of the earth. Here also there were once many bitter persecutors, but they are vanished away like smoke ; several of them indeed came to a fearful end, and their neighbours took warning by them. Thursday 31, We travelled through a pleasant, well-cultivated JTUNE, 1787.] B.EV. JOHN WESLEY S JOURNAL. <20:> country to Omagh, the shire town of Tyrone. It being market- day, a multitude of people presently flocked together to a tent, as they call it, on the side of the green. At first they were innocently- noisy, (this being a new thing at Omagh,) but they were soon still as night. I suited my subject to their experience, preaching on It is appointed for all men once to die. God applied it to their hearts. Not a smile was to be seen, but all seemed to feel the solemn truth. Thence we went over mountains and dales to Kerlish-Lodge, where we met with a hearty welcome, both from Alexander Boyle, and his amiable wife, who are patterns to all the country. Although we were at a lone house ten miles frOm any town, arid although the weather was both rainy and stormy, we had a large congregation in the evening, and afterwards a comfortable lovi?-feast. I do not wonder the work of God spreads in these parts. The spirit and behaviour of Mr. Boyle and his wife, continually employed in doing good, have an amazing influence on all their neighbourhood. Some time she went to his uncle's at Killrail, who has four daughters grown up. They began conversing in the evening: they prayed, and sung, and talked, and prayed again, till about seven in the rrforning. By that time all four of them found a clear sense of pardon, and two be lieved they were saved from all sin. Mr. Boyle had spoken to Dr. Wilson, the rector of a neighbouring town, concerning my preaching in the church, who wrote to the bishop, and received a letter inanswer, giving a full and free consent. The doctor desired me to breakfast with him. Meantime one of his parishioners, a warm seceder, took away the key of the church, so I preached in a neighbouring orchard : 1 believe not in vain. The rector and his wife" were in the front of the congregation. After ward we took a view of Lord Abercorn's place. The house has a lovely situation : and the front of it is as elegant as any I have seen either in Great Britain or Ireland. The grounds are delightful in deed, perhaps equal to any in the kingdom. About five in the evening I preached at Killrail. No house would contain the congregation; so I preached in the open air. The wind was piercingly cold, but the people regarded it not. Afterwards I administered the Lord's supper to about a hundred of them, and then slept in peace. Saturday, June 2, It was with difficulty we reached Strabane, my new horse quite fading. I had no thought of preaching there till word was sent that the town hall was at my service. I then went to it without delay, and had a genteel, yet serious, congregation! In the afternoon my horse failed again ; but one of the preachers tried his; and he drew as if he had beenbred to it. Our house at Lon donderry not beirig ready, I preached at six in the town-hall, a beau tiful and spacious room, to a deeply serious congregation; Sunday* 3, it was more numerous in the morning and equally serious : so was the great congregation in the evening. Surely we shall see more fruit in this city ; but first we shall have need of patience. 2j.l.> KEY. JOHN WESLEY o JOUKNAL. [.IUKE, 17 Ci Monday 4, Mr. Broadbent preached at five, and I at eleven, and he in the evening: he did the same on Tuesday 5. At noon wc took a walk in the bishop's garden, and saw his delightful summer- house, a room fifty feet long, finished with the utmost elegance, and situated on the point of a hill that commands the river and all the country. But bis lordship has utterly forsaken it ; for it is no longer new. Wednesday 6, I took leave of my dear friends at Londonderry, and drove to Newtown Limavady. 1 had no design to preach there. But while we were at br. akfast, the people were gathered so fast that 1 could not deny the in. The house was soon filled from end to end I explained to them, the fellowship believers have with God. Thence I went on to Colerain, and preached at six, (as I did two years ago,) in the barrai k-yard- Tbe wind was high and sharp enough : but the people here -are goodold soldiers. Many at tended at five in the morning, and a large congregation about six in the evening. Mosto.f whom, 1 believe, tasted the good word; for God' was with us of a truth, , FridayS, I could willingly have staid a little longer, with this steady, affectionate people. But I broke from them between six and seven, and went forward, as well as the heavy rain and a tired horse would permit. - About two we reaohed Ballimena, where we have a small and poor, but well-established, society The Presby terian minister offering bis- meeting-house, I willingly accepted his offer, and explained to a large congregation, God was in Christ re conciling the world to himself. And I believe his word fell on many7 as the rain, and as the dew upon the tender herb. Saturday 9, We went through a lovely country to Antrim. Here likewise the Presbyterian minister offered me the use of a large and commodious house. The Bible in the pulpit lying open, I chose for the subject of my discourse the words which first met my eye, namely, When they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. The greatest part of the country from hence to Belfast is likewise exceedingly pleasant. At six I preached in the linen-hall to a nu merous and seriously attentive congregation. A gentleman invited me to lodge at his house, and showed me the new Presbyterian meeting-house. It is nearly seventy-two feet by fifty, arid is far the most beautiful of any I have seen in Ireland : but I doubt whether it equals Dr. Taylor's in Norwich ; that is the most elegant I ever saw- I preached at ten in the linen-hall to double the congregation that attended in the evening. And the powei of God came wonderfully upon them, melting their hearts and break insr the rocks in pieces. In the afternoon I preached in the linen-hall at Lisburn to a still more numerous congregation, 1 think the largest that 1 ha^e seen since we left England. And all, excepting a few giddy children, be haved as men that heard for life. Monday 11, It being the quarterly-meeting, I preached at eleven in the Presbyterian meeting-house, a large and handsome building, O-UME, 17S7.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. ill freely offered both by the minister and his elders : and it then con tained the congregation : but, in the evening, the multitude of peo ple constrained me to return to my old stand in the linen-hall. And I have hardly had so solemn an opportunity since we came Into the kingdom. Tuesday 12, We came through a most beautiful country to Down patrick, a much larger town than I imagined ; I think, not much in ferior to Sligo. The evening was uncommonly mild and bright, there not being a cloud in the sky. The tall firs shaded us on every side, and the fruitful fields were spread all arourid The people were, I think, half as many more as were at Lisburn even on Sun day evening. On whom I enforced those important words, Ac quaint thyself now with him and be at peace. , Wednesday 13, Being informed we had only six-and-twenty miles to go, we did not set out till between six and seven. The country- was uncommonly pleasant, running between two high ridges of mountains : but it was up hill and down all the way, so that we did not reach Rathfriland till nearly noon. Mr. Barber, the Presbyte rian minister,, (a princely personage, I believe six feet and a half high) offering me his new spacious preaching-house, the congrega tion quickly gathered together. ' I began without delay to open and enforce, Now God commandeth all men, every where, to repent. I took chaise the instant I had done ; but the road being still up hill and down, we were two hours going what they called six miles. I then quitted the chaise and rode forward. But even then, four miles, so called, took an hour and a half riding, so that I did not reach Dr. Lesley's at Tandragee till half aii hour past four. About six I stood upon the steps at Mr. Gadly's door, and preached On This is not your rest, to a larger congregation, by a third, than even that at Downpatrick. I scarcely remember to have seen a larger, unless in London, Yorkshire, or Cornwall. Thursday 14, Mr. Broadbent and I walked round Dr. Lesley's domain. 1 have not seen any thing of the size in England that is equal to it. This house stands on the midst of a fruitful hill, which is part beneath, and part above it. In approaching it you see no walls, nothing but green trees and shrubs of various kinds. Enter the court-yard and gate, and you still see, no stone walls ; but on either hand " The verdurous wall of piradise upsprirtgs," and that summer and winter, consisting wholly of evergreens, that bloom all the year round. On the upper side of the house, the gently-rising hill yields the loveliest scene that can be conceived : such a mixture of shady walks, and lawns spiinkled with trees; at the top of which is a natural rock, ueder which you may sit and command a most beautiful, and extensive prospect. And all this variety has risen from a rough furzy heath, by the industry of Dr. Lesley in thirty years. I expected the congregation would not be so large this evening il2 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [june, 1787- as it was the last ; but it was far larger, and, if possible, more atten tive. I have scarcely ever seen a more pleasing sight. We were covered round with tall, shady trees, only an opening on one side afforded a view of the wide-extended country. The people were as motionless as the trees ; for the power of God was upon them. And I believe few of them will forget that hour till their spirits re turn to God. Friday 1 5, About eight I preached at Rick-hill to a deeply se rious consregation. At eleven I preached in the Castle-yard at Charlemont to a large congregation, gathered from all parts, (it be ing the quarterly-meeting.) Immediately followed the love-feast : but the preaching-house would not contain one-half of the people ; so we borrowed the green in the fort, and let the people through the wicket, one by one. They then sat down on the grass, being full as private as in the house : and many spoke their experience quite , freely ; but the rain obliged us to break-off our meeting sooner than we intended. It began in the evening before I had finished the hymn, but stopped in two or three minutes, and left us a fair and tolerably pleasant evening. Saturday 16, I went on to Dungannon ; but the town seemed to be in an uproar. One would have thought Bedlam had broken loose : the cause was this, a cock-fight, was at hand. A gentleman asked the Presbyterian minister for the use of his meeting-house, but he gaye a reason for his denial, viz, That Mr. Hall, one of the society, had said, he had played at cards all night, (which, it seems, was true ;) and therefore he could not allow him to come into his meeting-house : so we removed all the benches out of our own, and it contained most of the congregation. I preached there again in the evening, and then held a love-feast, at which many were greatly comforted. Sunday 17, We knew not what to do at Armagh , the rain would not suffer us to preach in the avenue, and <>ur house would not con tain half of the congregation, many of whom came from far. The best shift we could make was to squeeze into the house as many as possible, and keep both the windows and doors open, by which means many more could hear. In the evening the Seceders, (who would think it!) freely gave me the use of their large meeting-house. It was filled from end 'to end ; but a wise youn^ gentleman observed, that I had " quite mis took my subject ; my sermon being calculated for the vulgar, not for gentlefolks." I permitted as many as our house would contain to stay- at the meeting of the society, and gave them a plain account of the Me thodists, both as to their rise, principles, and -practice. Monday 18, Many seemed not a little moved while I enforced the words of Eliphaz, (it seems the eldest and most honourable of Job's three friends,) Acquaint thyself now with him, and be at peace. Af terwards we took a view of the primate's lodge and chapel, elegant in the highest degree, and of the domain surrounding them, which is june, 1787.] rev. john wesley's journal. 213 laid out and planted in the most beautiful manner. And what hath the owner of it ? Not so much as the beholding thereof with his eyes ! Probably he will behold it no more ! He is fully taken up in building a large seat near Dublin, at above eighty years of age ! " Tu secanda marmora Locas sub ipsum tunus, et sepulchri Immemor struis domos !" * In the evening I preached once more in Mr. M'Gough's avenue, and a listening multitude seriously attended. Surely there will be a harvest here also by and by, although hitherto we see but little fruit. Tuesday 19, We went on through horrible roads to Newry. 1 \vonder any should be so stupid as to prefer the Irish roads to the English. The huge unbroken stones, of which they are generally made, are enough to break any carriage in pieces. No ; there is nothing equal to good English gravel, both for horses, carriages, and travellers. In the evening I preaehed to a numerous congregation in the large meeting-house. I believe many felt the edge of the word sharper than a two-edged sword. One consequence of which was, that our new room would not contain the congregation even at five in the morning, but many were constrained to stand without Be tween nine and ten I preached in the market-house at Dundalk : we expected a tumult, but there was none at all. A very large con gregation of rich and poor behaved with the utmost decency, while I enforced, Now is the accepted time : now is the day of salvation. At six in the evening I preached in the court-house at Dregheda to a crowded congregation, on / saw the dead, small and great, stand before God. Even in this turbulent town all were quiet, and seemed to feel that God was there. Thursday 21, Several of our frierids from' Dublin met us at the Man-of-War, with whorri we went on to Swords, a town famous, from time immemorial, for all manner of wickedness : however, finding a congregation waiting, I beg.n without delay, and all were still as night : so salvation is come to the sinners of Swords also. In the afternoon it pleased God to bring us safe to Dublin, when we had been absent a little above two months. Friday 22, 1 began visiting the classes, which employed me to the Thursday following. We found it necessary to exclude one hun dred and twelve members : there remained eleven hundred and thirty-six.. Sunday 24, At seven 1 preached in the room. At eleven the seryice began at Bethesda, I found uncommon liberty there, even among the rich and great. I think some of them felt our Lord present, both to wound and to heal. In the evening Ipreached at the new room, and it was just as much as 1 could do without weariness. Tuesday 26, We were agreeably surprised with the arrival of Dr. Coke, who came from Philadelphia in nine*and-twenty days, and 214 hev. john wesley's journal. {july, 1787* gave us a pleasing account of the work of God in America. Thursday 28, 1 had the pleasure of a conversation with Mr. Howard, I think one of the greatest men in Europe. Nothing but the mighty power of God can enable him to go through his difficult: and dangerous employments But what can hurt us, if God be on our side ? Saturday 30, I desired all our preachers to meet me, and consider the state of our brethren in America, who have been terribly fright ened at their own shadow, as if the English preachers were just going to enslave them. I believe that fear is now over, and they are more aware of Satan's devices. Sunday July 1, At seven I strongly exhorted a large congregation, Not to be conformed, either to the wisdom, spirit, or fashions of this world, if ever they desired to be transformed in the spirit of their mind, according to the perfect and acceptable will of God. In the evening I opened and applied those awful words, Lord, are there few that be saved ? Tuesday 3, A few friends took me to Marino, a seat of Lord Charlemont's, four miles from Dublin It contains a lovely mixture of wood, water, and lawns, on which are several kinds of foreign sheep, with great plenty of peacocks ; but I could not hear any singing birds of any kind ; la little wondered at this ; till I afterv wards recollected that I had not heard any singing bird, not even a lark, a thrush, or a blackbird, within some' miles of Dublin. In the evening I strom-ly enforced those awful words, Strive to enter in at the strait gate, upon a numerous congregation, who had ears to hear, and hearts to receive the whole gospel. Wednesday 4, I spent an hour at the New Dargle, a gentleman's seat four or five miles from Dublin. 1 have not seen so beautiful a place in the kingdom : it equals the Leasows in Warwickshire. And it greatly exceeds them in situation, all the walks lying on the side of a mountain, which commands all Dublin-Bay, as well as an extensive and finely variegated land prospect. A little river runs through it which occasions two cascades, at a small distance from each other. Although many places may exceed this in grandeur, I believe none can exceed it in beauty. Afterwards I saw the parlia ment-house. The house of Lords far exceeds that at Westminster : and the Lord Lieutenant's thro ;e as far exceeds that miserable throne (so called) of the King in the English House of Lords. The House of Commons is a noble room indeed, it is an octagon, wainscotted round with Irish oak, which shames all mahogany, and gahYried all round for the convenience of the ladies. The speaker's chair is far more grand than the throne of the Lord-Lieutenant. But what surprised me above all, were the kitchens of the house, and the large apparatus for good eating. Tables were placed from one end of a large hall to the other, which, it seems, while the parliament sits, are daily covered with meat at four or five o'clock, for the ac commodation of the members. Alas ! Poor Ireland ! Who shall Teach thv verv senators wisdom ? Win- is ceased. JULY, 1787.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 215 " Sad saevior armis, luxuiia incubuit." Thursday 5, Most of our preachers came to town. Friday 6, our conference began, and ended, as usual, on Tuesday 10. We had no jarring string, but all, from the beginning to the end, was love and harmony. Sunday 8, I preached at our room at seven. At eleven the ser vice began at Bethesda. The congregation was exceedingly large. I preached on part of the second lesson, (Luke xx. 34 ;) and many had a large taste of the powers of the world to come. At the love- fg&st in the evening, many spoke freely, who were deeply expe rienced in" the ways of God: indeed they have fairly profited in the divine life. 1 have rarely heard such a conversation even in England. On Tuesday evening likewise many spoke with equal fire, tempered with meekness of wisdom. Wednesday 11, At five I took an affectionate leave of this loving people. And having finished all my business here, in the afternoon I went down with my friends, having taken the whole ship, and went on board the Prince of Wales, one of the Parkgate packets. At sevep we sailed with a fair moderate wind. Between nine and ten I lay down as usual, and slept till nearly four, when I was waked by an uncommon noise, and found the ship lay beating upon a large rock, about a league from Holyhead. The Captain who had not long lain down, leaped up, and running upon the deck, when he saw how the ship lay, cried out, " Your ljves may be saved ; but 1 am undone." Yet.no sailors swore, and no woman cried out. We immediately went to prayer ; and presently the ship, I know not how, shot off the rock and pursued her way, without any more da mage, than the wounding a few of her outside planks. About three in the afternoon we came safe to Parkgate ; and in the evening went on to Chester. Friday 13, I spent a quiet day, and in the, evening enforced, to a crowded audience, the parable of the sower. I know not that ever I had so large a congregation. Sunday 1 5, I preached at the new church at Macclesfield in the morning, oil Matt. v. 20 ; in the afternoon, on 1 Cor. xv. 55.. Mr. Broadbent in the room at eight in the riiorning, and between five and six in the evening. Monday 16, The house was well filled at five in the morning. At noon I took a view of Mr. Ryle's silk-mill, which keeps two hun dred and fifty children in perpetual employment. In the evening I preached on Mark iii. 35, and we had a comfortable opportunity. Tuesday 17, About noon I preached in the new chapel at Bul- lock-snjithyj and in the evening at. Stockport. Being informed that the people in general were dead and cold, I strongly\applied, Noio it is high time to awake out of sleep-. God was pleased to speak in his word, and that with a mighty voice : but still more powerfully at five in the morning, Wednesday 18, while I was enforcing that pro- vol. 4— C c 216 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S J8URNAL. [jt'LYj 1787. mise, The Lord, whom ye seek, will suddenly come to his temple. I then retired to a little house of Mr. Brocklehurst's, two miles be yond Manchester. Here Adam Oldham lived) O what did riches profit him ! How strange the Providence which put me in his place ! The rest of this week I spent in writing. On Saturday 21, I re turned to Manchester. Sunday 22, our service began at ten. Not withstanding the severe cold, which has continued many days, the house was well filled : but my work was easy, as Dr. Coke assisted me. As many as could, crowded in in the evening. But many were obliged to go away. Afterwards I spent a comfortable hour with the society. Monday 23, I preached morning and afternoon. In the evening I met the bands, and admired their liveliness and simplicity. After preaching on Tuesday morning, I retired again to Bruton. Thurs day 26, about noon, I preached in the new preaching-house, to as" many as it would well contain, on Isaiah lv. 5, 6, To-day I read, upon the road, a very agreeable book, Mr. Dobb's Universal His tory. It gave me a clearer view of ancient times than ever I had before. But I still doubt of many famous incidents, which have passed current for many ages. To instance, in one, I cannot be lieve there were ever such a nation as the Amazons in the world. The whole affair of the Argonauts I judge to be equally fabulous ; as Mr. Bryant has shown many parts of ancient history to be. And no wonder, considering how allegories and poetic fables have been mistaken for real histories. After preaching at Rochdale, I was agreeably surprised by a young woman that called upon me. Several years a. girl, thirteen or Tour- teen years old, was remarkable for piety. But a year or two after, when I called upon her, with great expectation, she had not the least savour of it left. She came on purpose to inform me, that God had restored her, and she was now determined, to live and to die to him. God grant she may ! She will either be an abandoned apostate, or a shining Christian. Friday 27, The house was well filled at five. 1 have not seen so large a morning congregation, in proportion to the size of the town, since I returned to England. I was invited to breakfast at Bury, by Mr. Peele, a calico printer, who, a few years ago, began with five hundred pounds, and is now supposed to have gained fifty thousand pounds. O what a miracle, if he lose not his soul ! Thence we went on to Bolton. Here are eight' hundred poor children taught in our Sunday schools, by about eighty masters, who receive no pay but what they are to receive frorii their great master. About a hundred of them, part boys and part girls, are taught to sing. And they sang so true, that, all singing together, they seemed to be but one voice. The house was thoroughly filled, while I ex plained and applied the first commandment. What is all morality or religion without this ? a mere castle in the air. In the evening, avo, 1787.] rev. john. wesley's journal. 217 many of the children still hovering round the house, I desired forty or fifty to come in and sing, " Vital spark of heavenly flame." Although some of them were silent, not being able to sing for tears,. yet the harmony was such as 1 believe could not be equalled in the King's chapel. .. ,'-_ . Sunday, August 5, In the morning I met the select society, a lovely company of humble, simple Christians. Several of them ap peared to have sound and deep experience of the things of God, and ; to stand steadfast in the liberty wherewith Christ had. made them free. The house was at ten full and warm enough. Mr. Home read prayers, and read' them well. I preached on those words in the first lesson, How long halt ye between two opinions? And was, enabled to press the question home, on the consciences of the hearers. We had five clergymen, although three only could officiate, and twelve or thirteen hundred cominunicarits : and the master of the feast was in the midst of us, as many found, to their unspeakable comfort. After preaching in the evening, I took a solemn leave of the affectionate society. Here, at least it undenia bly appears, that we have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. Monday 6, Having taken the whole coach for Birmingham, we set out at twelve o'clock, expecting to be there, as usual, about five in the evening. But having six persons within, and eight without, the coach could not bear the burden, but broke down before three in the morning. Having patched it together, as well as we could, we went on to Congleton, and got another. In an hour or two this broke also. And one of the horses was so thoroughly tired, that he could hardly set one foot before the other. After all these hinderances,. we got to Birmingham just at seven. Finding a large congregation waiting, I stepped out of the coach into the house, and began preaching without delay. And such was the goodness of God, that I found no more weariness, when 1 had done than if I had rested all the* day. Here I took a tender leave of Mrs. Heath and her lovely daugh ters, about to embark with Mr. Heath for America ; whom* I hardly expect, to see any more, till we meet in Abraham's bosom. Tuesday 7, Setting out a little before five, we reached Worcester between ten and eleven : resting till half past twelve, and taking , fresh horses at Tewksbury, we reached Gloucester before five o'clock. About seven I preached to a numerous congregation in the new house, on / am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, and strongly applied the words to those whom they concerned. This night was one. of the hottest I ever felt in Europe. Wednesday 8, We set out at two, and from the time it was light rode through one of the pleasantest countries I ever saw. Before five we came .to Rodbury-place, but we were far too early for so genteel a family. , Before we reached Malmsbury, one of my horses 218 rev. john wesley's journal. [aug. 1787. fell lame : so I sent my own chaise and horses directly to Bristol, and took post chaises the rest of the day. About half an hour after four we came to Salisbury, designing to go straight forward to Southampton: but, to our great surprise, there was not a post-chaise to be hired in the town. After waiting some time we were informed that notice had been given of my preaching in the evening. I then saw the providential reason why we could not leave Sarum. The house was full enough in the evening, and great was the power of God in the midst of them. Thursday 9, Desiring to be at Southampton, as soon as possible, we took chaise at four in the morning, and, making but a short stay at Rumsey, came thither between eight and nine. We found two sloops nearly ready to sail ; the Captain of one promised to sail the next morning : so we sat down content. At seven in the evening I preached in Mr. Fay's school-room, to a small, but deeply serious congregation, on It is appointed to men once to die. I believe some of these will not be forgetful hearers, but will bring forth fruit with patience. Friday 10, At six I preached to nearly the same number, on Heb. iv. 14. In the afternoon 1 went with a gentleman, (Mr. Taylor) to hear the famous musician that plays upon the glasses. By my appearing there (as I had foreseen) a heap of gentry attended in the evening. And I believe several of them, as well as Mr. T. him self, did not come in vain. Saturday 11, We went on board the Queen, a smart sloop, and sailed eight or nine leagues with a tolerable wind : but it then grew foul, and blew a storm, so that we were all glad to put in at Yarmouth harbour. About six Dr. Coke preached in the market-house to a quiet and tolerably atteritive congregation. The storm continuing, at eight in the morning, Sunday 12, I preached to a much larger congregation. I had uncommon liberty of speech, and I believe some of them felt that God was there. At eleven we went to church,: there was a tolerable congregation, and all remarkably well behaved. The minister read prayers very seriously, and preach ed on Blessed are the poor in spirit. At four I preached again* on Luke xix. 42, (part of the second lesson in the . morning) O that thou hadst known, &c. the market-house was now more than filled : and not a few seemed to hear as for life. In the evening Dr. Coke preached again. We have now delivered our own souls at Yar mouth, and trust God will suffer us to go on to Guernsey. . Monday 13, We set out from Yarmouth with a fair wind, but it soon turned against us ; and blew so hard, that in the afternoon we were glad to put in at Swanage. I found we had still a little, society here. I had not seeri them for thirteen years, and had no thought of seeing them now :- but God does all things well. In the evening I preached in the Presbyterian meeting-house, not often, I believe, so well filled ; and afterwards passed half an hour, very agreeably, with the minister, in the parsonage house, which he rents, a neat, retired house, with a delightful garden. Thence we AUG. 1787.] rev. johit wesley's journal 219 adjourned to the house of our old Brother Collins, and between eight and nine went on board. Tuesday 14, Sailing on with a fair wind we fully expected to reach Guernsey in the afternoon ; but the wind turning contrary, and blowing hard, we found it would be impossible. We then judged it best to put in at the Isle of Alderney ; but we were very near being shipwrecked in the bay. When we were in the middle of the rocks, with the sea rippling all round us, the wind totally failed. Had this continued we must have struck upon one or other of the rocks. So we went to prayer, and the wind sprung up instantly. About sun-set we landed, and though we had five beds* in the same room slept in peace. About eight I went down to a convenient spot on the beach, and began giving out a hymn : a woman and two little children joined us immediately. Before the hymn was ended we had a tolerable con gregation, all of whom behaved well ; part indeed continued at forty or fifty yards distance, but they were all quiet and attentive. It happened, to speak in the vulgar phrase, that three or four who sailed with us from England, a gentleman with his wife and sister, were near relations of the Governor. He came to us this morning; and when I went into the room behaved with the utmost courtesy. This little circumstance may remove prejudice, and make a more open way for the gospel. Soon after we set sail ; and after a very pleasant passage, through little islands on either hand, we came to the venerable caStie, stand ing on a rock, about a quarter of a mile from Guernsey. The isle itself makes a beautiful appearance, spreading as a crescent to the right and left ; about seven miles long and five broad, part high land and part low, the town itself is boldly situated, rising higher and higher from the water. The first thing I observed in it was very narrow streets, and exceedingly high houses. But we quickly went on to Mr. de Jersey's, hardly a mile from the town. Here I found a most cordial welcome, both from the master of the house and all his family. I preached- at seven, in a large room to as deeply serious a congregation as I ever saw, on Jesus Christ, of God made unto us wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. Thursday 1 6, I had a very serious congregation at five in a large room at Mr. de Jersey's house. His gardens and orchards are of a vast extent, and wonderfully pleasant. And I know no nobleman in Great-Britain that has such variety of the most excellent fruit, which he is every year increasing, either from France or other parts of the Continent. What quantity of fruit he has, you may conjec ture from one sort only. This summer he gathered fifty pounds of strawberries daily, for six weeks together ! In the evening I preached at the other end of the town in our own preaching-house. So many people squeezed in, though not nearly all who came, that it was as hot as a stove : but this none seemed to regard, for the word of God was sharper than a two-edged sword. 220 rev. john wesley's journal. [aug. 1787. Friday 1.7, I waited upon the Governor, and spent half an hour very agreeably. In the afternoon we took a walk upon the pier, the largest and finest I ever saw. The town is swiftly increasing; new houses starting up on every side. In the evening I did not attempt to go into the house, but stood near it in the yard, surrounded with tall, shady trees, and proclaimed to a large congregation, God is a spirit, and they that worship him must worship him, in spirit and in truth. I believe many were cut to the heart this hour, and some not a little comforted. ¦ • Saturday 18, Dr. Coke and I dined at the Governor's. I was well pleased to find other company. We conversed seriously for upwards of an hour, with a sensible, well-bred, agreeable man. In the eve ning I preached to the largest congregation I have seen here, on Jer. viii. 22, and they were all attention. Surely God will have a people in this place. Sunday 19, Joseph Bradford preached at six in the morning at Mont Les Plaisie Terres, to a numerous congregation. I preached at half an hour past eight, and the house contained the congregation. At ten I went to the French church, where there was a large and well- behaved congregation. At five we had the largest congregation of all; of whom I took a solemn and affectionate leave ; as it is pro bable I may not see them any more till we meet in Abraham's bosom. Monday 20, We took ship between three and four in the morning, in a very small inconvenient sloop, and not a swift sailer, so that we were seven hours in sailing, what is called, seven leagues. Abouteleven we landed at St. Helier's, and went straight to Mr. Brackenbury's house. It stands very pleasantly near the end of the town, and has a large convenient garden, with a lovely range of fruitful hills, which rise at a small distance from it. I preached in the evening to an exceedingly serious congregation, on Matt. iii. ult. And almost as many were present at five in tbe morning, whom I exhorted to go on to perfection, which many of them, Mr. Clarke informs me, are earnestly endeavouring to do. Tuesday 21, We took a walk to one of our friends in the country. Near his house stood what they call, The College: it is a free school, designed to train up children for the University, exceeding finely situated, in a quiet recess, surrounded by tall woods. Not far from it stands on the top of a high hill (I suppose a Roman mount) an old chapel, believed to be the first Christian church which was built in the island. From hence we had a view of the whole island, the pleasantest I ever saw, as far superior to the Isle of Wight as that is to the Isle of Man. The little hills, almost covered with large trees, are inexpressibly beautiful; it seems they are to be equalled in the Isle of Guernsey. In the evening I was obliged to preach abroad, on Now is the day of salvation. I think a blessing seldom fails to attend that subject. Wednesday 22, In the evening, the room notcontaining the peo ple, I was obliged to stand in the yard. I preached on Rom. iii. 22, 23, and spoke exceedingly plain. Even the gentry heard with deep aug. 1787.] rev. johh Wesley's journal. 221 attention. How little things does God turn to his own glory. Pro bably many of these flock together because I have lived so many years ! And perhaps even this may be the mean of their living for ever ! Thursday 23, I rode to. St Mary's, five or six miles from St. Helier's, through shady, pleasant lanes. Njne at the house could speak English, but I had interpreters enow. In the evening our large room was thoroughly filled. , 1 preached on By grace ye are saved, through faith : Mr. Brackenbury interpreted sentence by sen tence, and God owned his word, though delivered in so awkward a manner: but especially in prayer; I prayed in English and Mr. B. in French. ' The houses here are exactly like those in the interior parts of Wales, equal to the best farmer's houses in Lincolnshire. And the people in general are far better behaved than our country farmers in England. Friday 24, I returned to St. Helier's. The high wind in the evening prevented my preaching abroad: however on more than the house would contain I enforced those awful words, It is appointed unto men once to die. I believe the word fell heavy on all that heard, and many wished to die the death of the righteous. Saturday 25, Having now leisure, I finished a sermon on Discern ing the Signs of the Times This morning I had a particular con versation, (as 1 had once or twice before) with Jeannie Bisson of this town, such a young woman as I have hardly seen elsewhere. She seems to be wholly devoted fo God, and to have constant communion with him. She has & clear and strong understanding, and I cannot perceive the least tincture of enthusiasm. I am afraid she will not live long. I am ainazed at the grace of God which is in her. I think she is far beyond Madam Guion, in deep communion with God : and I doubt whether I have found her fellow in England. Precious as my time is, it would have been worth my while to come to Jersey, had it been only to see this prodigy of grace. In the evening God was with us in a very uncommon manner, while I opened and enforced those comprehensive words, We preach Christ crucified. I know not when we have had such an opportu nity. It seemed as if every soul present would have found the .salva tion of God ! Sunday 26, Dr. Coke preached at five and I at nine o'clock. Afterwards I heard the English service at church ; but the congre gation was nothing nearly so large, as ours at five in the morning. We had a French sermon in our room at three. Afterwards I met the society, many of whom came from the country, and understood no English : so Mr. Brackenbury interpreted for me again : afterwards we both prayed. Many of the people seemed greatly affected. Between five and six I began preaching in the yard : but before I had finished my sermon it poured down with rain : so I was obliged to conclude abruptly. „ 222 rev. john wesley's journal. [auc. 1787. Monday 27, Captain Cabot, the master of a Guernsey sloop, called upon us early in the morning, and told us, "¦¦ If. we chose to go that way he would set out between five and six." But the wind being quite contrary, we -judged it best to wait a little longer. In the evening, being appointed to preach at seven, I was obliged to preach within : we were extremely crowded ; but the power of God was so manifested while I declared, We preach Jesus Christ and him crucified, that we soon forgot the heat, and were glad of being detained a little longer than we intended. I thought when I left Southampton to have been there again at this day ; but God's thoughts were not as my thoughts. Here we are shut up in Jersey, for how long we cannot tell. But it is all well ; for thou, Lord, hast done it. It is my part to improve the time, as it is not likely I should ever have another opportunity of visiting these islands. Tuesday 28, Being still detained by contrary winds, I preached at six in the evening to a larger congregation than ever, in the as sembly-room. It conveniently contains five or six hundred people. Most of the gentry were present, and I believe felt that God was there in an uncommon degree. Being still detained, I preached there again the next evening to a larger congregation than ever. I now judged I had fully delivered my own soul : and iri the morning, the wind serving for Guernsey, and not for Southampton, I returned thither, not unwillingly, since it was not by' my choice, but by the clear Providence of God : for, in the afternoon, I was offered the use of the assembly-room, a spacious chamber, in the market-place, which would contain, at least, thrice as many as our former room. I willingly accepted the offer, and preached at six to such a congre gation as I had not seen here before. And the word seemed to sink deep into their hearts. I trust it-will not return empty. Wednesday 29, I designed to have followed the Mow in the morn ing ; but I had quite lost my voice : however, it was restored in the evening, and I believe all in the assembly-room, (more than the last evening,) heard distinctly, while I explained and applied, / saw the dead, small and great, stand before God In the morning, -Thursday 30, I took a solemn leave of the society. We set out about nine, and reached St. Peter's in the afternoon. Good is the will of the Lord. I trUst he has something more for us to do here also. After preaching to a larger congregation than was expected, on so short a notice, on God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself, I re turned to Mont-PIaisir, to stay just as long as it should please God. I preached there in the morning, Friday 31, to a congregation se rious as death. Afterwards I looked over Archbishop Usher's Let ters, and was surprised to find that great man was fully convinced, 1, That the Septuagint translation continually adds to, takes from, and changes the Hebrew text at pleasure. 2, That this could not possibly be owing to mistake, but must have been done by design. 3, That the original translation of it was lost long ago, and what has ever since gone under that name is a spurious copy, abounding with SEPT. 1787.]. REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 223 omissions, additions, and alterations of the Hebrew text ; yet not such as any way destroys the foundation. I designed to preach abroad in the evening ; but the furious wind drove us into the house : however, our labour was not lost; for many felt the sharpness of the two-edged sword while I was ex pounding Gal vi. 14. Saturday, September 1 , This day twelvemonth I was detained in Holland by contrary winds. All is well, so we are doing and suf fering the will of our Lord. In the evening, the storm driving us into the house again, I strongly exhorted a very genteel audience, (such as I have rarely seen in England) to ask for the old paths, and loalk therein. Sunday 2, Being still pent up by the north-east wind, Dr. Coke preached at six in the morning to a deeply affected congregation. I preached at eight, on Rorii. viii. 33. At one Mr. Vivian, a local preacher, preached in French, the language of the island. At five, as the house would not contain half the congregation, I preached iri a tolerably sheltered place, on the joy there is in heaven over one siii<- fter that repenteth ; and both high and low seemed to heat it gladly. I then designed to meet the society, but could riot. The people pressed so eagerly on every side that the house was filled presently ; so that 1 could only give a general exhortation, To walk worthy of their profession. I was in hopes of sailing in the morning, Monday 3, but the storm so increased that is was judged impracticable. The congregation, however, in the evening increased every day, and they appeared to be more and more affected ; so that 1 believe we were not detained for nothing, but for the spiritual and eternal good of many. Tuesday 4, The storm continued, so that we could not stir. I took a walk to-day through what is called the New Ground, where the gentry are accustomed to walk in the evening : both the upper ground, which is as level as a bowling-green, and, the lower, which is planted with rows of trees, is wonderfully beautiful. In the even ing I fully delivered my oWn soul by showing What it is to build upon a rock. But still we could not sail, the wind being quite contrary as well as exceedingly high. It was the same on Wednesday. In the afternoon we drank tea at a friend's who was meritioning a cap tain just come from France, that proposed to sail in the morning for Penzance, for which the wind would serve, though not for South ampton. In this we plainly saw the hand of God : so we agreed with him immediately, and in the morning, Thursday 6, went on board, with a fair, moderate wind : but we had but just entered the ship When the wind died a Way. We cried to God for help ; and it presently sprung up, exactly fair, and did not cease till it brought us into Penzance bay. We appeared to our friends here as men risen fronf the dead. Great was their rejoicing over us ; and great was the power of God in the midst of the, congregation, while I explained and applied those • vol. 4— Dd 224 rev. john wesley's journal. (_9ei>t,. 1.787. wordg, Whosoever doth the will of God, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. Saturday 8, Dr. Coke preached at six to as many as the preach ing house would contain. At ten I was obliged to take the field by the multitude of people that flocked together. I found a very un common liberty of speech among them, and cannot doubt but the work of God will flourish in this place. In, the evening I preached at St. Ives, (but it being the market day, so that I could not stand, as usual, in the market-place) in a very convenient field at the end of the town, to a very numerous congregation, I need scarcely add, and very serious ; for such are all the congregations in the county of Cornwall. Sunday 9, About nine I preached at the copper-works, three or four miles from St. Ives, to a large congregation gathered from all parts, I believe with the' demonstration of the Spirit. I then met the society in the preaching-house, Which is unlike any other in Eng land, both as to its form and materials. It is exactly round, and composed wholly of brazen Slags, which I suppose will last as long as the earth. Between one and two I begun in the market-place- at Redruth to the largest congregation I ever saw there. They not only fiUed all the windows, but sat on the tops of the houses. About five I began in the amphitheatre at Gwenap : I suppose we had a thousand more than ever were there before: but it was all one ; my voice was strengthened accordingly, so that every one could hear distinctly. Monday 10, I had a large congregation at five, and a peculiar blessing. Thence I went to Mr. Mill's, the.rector of Kenwin, half a mile from Truro, a house fit for a nobleman ; and the most beauti fully situated of any I have seen in the county. At noon I preached in the preaching-house at Truro : it was well filled with deeply at tentive hearers. Thence we went on through a swiftly-improving country to St. Austle, and preached in the new house, though not quite finished, to a crowded audience, who seemed all sensible that God was there. The old house was well filled at five in the morn ing, Tuesday 11. I did not design to preach at Liskard. but find ing a few people gathered together I gave them a short discourse, and then went on to Tarpoint, where several of our brethren from the dock were waiting for us ; .so/ we crossed over, without loss of time, to an earnest, affectionate people. The house would ill con tain the congregation in the evening, and a joyful meeting it was. Wednesday 1 2, We went over to Mount Edgecomb, and walked through all the improvements. The situation is fine indeed : the lofty, hill, nearly surrounded by the sea, and sufficiently adorned with trees, but not crowded, is uncommonly pleasant : but it did not strike me like Lord Harcourt's seat at Nuneham. And are all these things to be burnt up ! At noon I preached at Plymouth : the house was crowded enough, and a solemn awe sat on all the people : as likewise in the evening sept. 1787.] rev. john wesley's journal. 226 at Plymouth-dock. There is an excellent spirit in this people, and such general peace and unanimity as never was before. Thursday IS, We set out early, and dined at Exeter. In the evening we had a crowded congregation that drank in every word. This society likewise increases both in number and strength. Friday 14, We took the mail-coach, and in the afternoon came to Bath. Considering the uncertain notice, which had been given, we had a larger congregation than was expected : and many found it a comfortable season, particularly those that were in heaviness. Saturday 14, With the assistance of two of my friends I answered abundance of letters. In the evening we had an uncommon con gregation, on whom I strongly enforced the first principles, (which indeed never can be too much enforced,) By grace ye, are saved, through faith. Sunday 16, J read prayers at ten, and preached, with a peculiar blessing, and administered the Lord's Supper to an uiiU3ual number of deeply serious communicants. At half past two I began again: the chapel was more than filled : many c6uld not get in; and the same was the case at six in the evening. At both times I preached considerably longer than I usually do. Surely the time is coine when God will cause his power to be known here also. Monday 1 7, Leaving this society in a better state than it has been in for many years, I went to Bristol, where my brother has been for some weeks. By the way I preached at Winterburn, on the foun dation of a new preachingi-house. There was much rain before I began, and a violent wind all the time I was preaching : yet, sdriie of these, I trust, did come to the marriage. I had now two or three days to answer my letters. Every evening our room was well filled with deeply attentive heaters. Friday 21, I spent the evening at the sclrool, and was much pleased with the management of it. Sunday 23, In the morning my brother read prayers, arid I preached : in the. afternoon I preached in Temple church to a very large and serious congregation. My brother desired to preach in the evening : so by the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established. On Monday and the following days I visited the country societies, and had the satisfaction to find most of them growing in grace, and not decreasing in number. Thursday 27, About noon I preached at Castle-Cary. How are the times changed ! The first of our preachers that came hither the, zealous mob threw into the horse-pond. Now high and low ear nestly listen to the word that is able to save their souls. In the evening I preached at Ditchet. Friday 28, I preached at Ditchet again, at Shepton Mallet, and at Pensford, to such a congregation as I haye not seen there for many years, and on Saturday returned to Bristpl, Sunday 30, I read prayers and my brother preached. I preached in the avenue at Kingswood about two, and at five near King's-square, probably the last time this year that I shall preach in the open air. 226 REV. JOHN wesley's journal. [oct. 171*7. Monday, October 1, and the three following days, I spoke to the society one by one, and was much refreshed, as the love of many was not grown cold, and their number was considerably increased. Friday 5, I preached at noon in Keynsham, and the power of God was present in an uncommon degree. So it was when I met the children at Miss Bishop's, and afterwards those at Mr. Simpson's. I verily think, the spirit and behaviour of these two sets of children, gradually affect the whole place, which now retains scarcely any thing of the brutality and savageness for which it was eminent some years ago. In the evening we had a watch-night at Kingswood. The weather was exceedingly rough, yet the house was filled ; and few went away till after the noon of night. Sunday 7, I preached morning and evening, and took a solemn leave of the affectionate people. Monday 8j having taken the whole mail-coach on Saturday, I went to it on Monday, between three and four, arid found, to my great' surprise, it was filled with ether passengers; and the clerk faced me down I had taken the coach for Sunday ; but some of our friends speaking strong words, they thought good to provide us another coach ; only it did not reach town quite so soon. I was, however, soon enough to meet a large congregation on Tuesday evening, and we praised the Lord together. Wednesday 10, I retired and spent the rest of the week in answering letters, and preparing matter for the Magazine. Sunday 14, I preached in West-street chapel morning and after noon, and at St. Swithin's church in the evening. Monday 15, I began a little tour through Oxfordshire. I preached at Wallingford in the eyening, with much enlargement of heart. Mr. Pentycross called upon me in the morningf>Tuesday 16. Calvinism and bitter ness are fled away together, 'and we willingly gave each other the right hand of fellowship. About one I preached at Oxford to a very quiet and deeply serious congregation. The house at Witney would nothing nearly contain the people in the evening : it was well filled at five on Wednesday morning. I dearly love this people, they are so simple of heart, and so much alive to God. After din ner we returned to Oxford. Half an hour before the hour of preaching a heavy rain began : by this means the house was filled, and not over filled. I found great liberty of speech in enforcing the first and great commandment. And could- not but hope there will be a great work of G°d here, notwithstanding all the wisdom of the world. Thursday 18, We went on to High Wycombe. The work of God is so considerably increased here, that, although three galleries are added to the preaching-house, it would scarcely contain the people: even at five in the morning, Friday 19, it was thoroughly filled. Never before was there so fair a prospect Of doing good at this place. I dined in London. Sunday 21, I preached in the morning at Spitalfieids with the usual success : in the afternoon at the New Chapel, on the remarka ble answer of Balaam to Balak's question, Micah vi. 8- How clear oct. 1787.] rev. john wesley's journal. 227 light had Balaam at that time ! But he soon tinned back, and loved darkness rather than light ! Monday 22, I went to Canterbury, and preached in the evening on the first and great commandment : in the morning, Tuesday 23, on the second We then went on to Dover. In the evening t strongly applied the parable of the sower to a crowded audience. Wednesday 25, 1 spoke equally plain in the morning. About noon, after an intermission of fifteen years, I preached at Sandwich, to more than the house contained, on Luke ix. 62. God applied his word to many hearts, so that I have at length a hope for Sandwich also. In the evening I preached at Margate. The word was quick and powerful : so it was likewise in the morning, Thursday 26. A good work has been wrought here since I was here before. Here is now a lively, loving society, who adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour. In returning to Canterbury, I called upon Mr. Kingsford, a man of substance as well as piety. He informed me, " Seven years ago I so entirely lost the use of my ankles and knees, that I could no more stand than a new-born child. Indeed I could not lie in bed without a pillow laid between my legs, one of them being unable to bear the weight of the other. I could not move from place to place, but on two crutches. All the advice I had, profited me nothing, In this state I continued above six years. Last year I went on busi ness to London, then to Bristol and Bath. At Bath I sent for a physician; but, before he came, as I sat reading the Bible, I thought, ' Asa sought to the physicians and not to God,' but God can do more for me than any physicians Soon after, I heard a noise in the street, and rising up, found I could stand. Being much surprised, I walked several times about the room ; then I walked into the square, and afterwards, on the Bristol road, and from that time I have been perfectly well : having as full a use of all my limbs as I had seven years ago." We had a comfortable opportunity in the evening, and early in the morning. And I left Canterbury, Friday 26, with a strong hope, that the work of God will flourish here, as it has not done for many years. In the evening I preached to a lovely congregation, at Chat ham, and on Saturday returned to London. Monday 29, I looked over all the manuscripts which I had col lected for the Magazine, destroyed what I did not think worth pub lishing, and corrected the rest. Tuesday 30, I went down to Miss Harvey's at Hinxworth iri Hertfordshire : Mr. Simeon from Cam bridge met me there, who breathes the very spirit of Mr. Fletcher : the chapel was quite crowded in the evening. I preached on that inexhaustible text, and with much liberty of spirit, By grace ye are saved through faith. In the morning, Wednesday 31,1 preached on the woman of Canaan ; and in the afternoon went over to Mr. Hick's at Wrestlingworth, through such roads as no chaise could pass ; so we had the pleasure of riding in a farmer's cart. It was such a motion as I never felt before ; but, to make amends, the church 228 rev. john wesley's journal. [nov^ 1787. was so filled as I never had seen it. And I was enabled to speak with unusual plainness. Surely some received the truth in the love thereof! Thursday, November 1, I gave a fair reading to Dr. Gerard's Essay on Taste. I should have wondered, but that I had read his Plan of Education, wherein he advises to read logic, last : such an advice eould never have been given but by one that knew nothing about it : indeed, he has hardly a clear idea of any thing. Hence it was natural for him to produce this strange performance, wherein he talks prettily, but quite wide of the mark, stumbling at first set ting out. For genius is no more invention than it is sense or memory. Friday 2, I set out early, and, about noon, preached at Barnet, to a small, serious congregation. I then went on to London. Saturday 3, I had a long conversation with Mr. Clulow, on that execrable act^ called the Conventicle Act. After consulting the Act of Toleration, with that of the 14th of Queen Ann, we were both clearly convinced, that it was the safest way to license all our chapels, and all our travelling preachers, not as Dissenters, but simply " Preachers of the Gospel." And that no justice or bench of jus tices has any authority to refuse licensing either the house or the preachers. Sunday 4, The congregation at the NeW Chapel was far larger than usual And the number of communicants was so great, that I was obliged to consecrate thrice. Monday 5, in my way to Dorking, I read Mr- Duff's Essay on Genius. It is beyond all comparison deeper and more judicious than Dr. G.'s Essay on that subject. If the Dr. had seen it, which one can hardly doubt, it is a wonder he would publish his essay : yet I cannot approve of his method. Why does he not first define his term, that we may know what he is talk ing about ? I doubt, because his own idea of it was not clear. For genius is not imagination any more than it is invention. If we mean by it a quality of the soul, it is in its widest acceptation, an extra ordinary capacity, either for some particular art or science, or for all, for whatever may be undertaken. So Euclid had a genius for mathematics, Tully for oratory : Aristotle and Lord Bacon bad an universal genius applicable to every thing. The congregation was, as usual, large and serious : but there is no increase in the society. So that we have profited nothing by having our service in the church hours, which some imagined would have done wonders. I do not know that it has done more good any where in England . in Scotland I believe it has. Tuesday 6, I preached, about noon, at Mitcham : we preached here many years ago for some time ; bu,t, despairing of doing any good, afterwards totally left the place. A year or two ago a spark fell' upon if, which is now kindled into a flame : so that the work of God is more lively here than in any society near London. I found more life than I expected in the evening among the poor people at Wandsworth, who have been long swallowed up in the cares of this dec. t78-7x] 'bet?, john, wesley's journal. 229 worldk But as they have a little more business so ttiey have more care for their souls, and seemdeterhiined to recover the ground they had lost. Friday 9, A friend offering to bear my expenses I set out in the evening, and on Saturday 10, dined at Nottingham. The preaching- house, one of the most elegant in England, was pretty well filled in the evening. Sunday 11, At ten, we had a lovely congregation ; and a very numerous one in tbe afternoon: but I believe the house would hardly contain one-half of those that came to it. I preached a Charity Sermon for the Infirmary, which was the design of my coming. This is not a County Infirmary, but is open to all England, yea to all the world. And every thing about it is so neat, so convenient, and so well ordered, that I have seen none like it in the three kingdoms. Monday 12, in the afternoon we took coach again, and on Tuesday returned to London. Thursday 15, Even at Poplar, I found a remarkable revival of the work of God. I never saw the preaching-house so filled before; and the power of the Lord seemed to rest on many of the hearers. Sunday 18, We had, as usual, a large congregation, and a com fortable opportunity at Spitalfields. Monday 19, I began the unpleas- irig work of visiting the classes. I still continue to do this in London and. Bristol, as well as in Cork and Dublin. With the other societies their respective assistants supply my lack of service. Sunday 25, I preached twoCbarity Sermons at West-street in behalf of our poor children. In which I endeavoured to warn them, and all that have the care of them, against that English sin, ungodli ness, that reproach of our nation, wherein we excel all the inhabit ants of the earth. Thursday 29, I preached at Mr. Edward's in Lambeth. How wonderfully does God fit people for their work ! Here Mrs. Edwards, a person of no extraordinary natural abilities, teaches- nearly a hun dred children, and keeps them in as good; if not better order, than most school mistresses in the kingdom ! Friday 30, I met the committee to consider the state of our tem poral circumstances. We are still running backward. Some way must be found to make our income answer our expenses. Saturday, December 1, I saw an uncommon instance of distress ; a gentlewoman who used to keep her coach, shut up with her four children in a dark, dirty room, (her husband being imprisoned for debt) without almost any of the necessaries of life. No wonder if she had chosen strangling rather than life. Sunday 2, I was pressed iri spirit to warn our people, in strong terms, of the Laodicean spirit which had crept in among them : they received the reproof : and many began to stir up the gift of God tha't is in them; which immediately appeared from the very great in crease of the morning congregations. Tuesday 4, I retired to Rffinham to prepare another edition of the New Testament for the press. Wednesdays, I preached at 230 REV. JOHN WE*LEY-'S JOURNAL, [dec. 1787: Purfleet to a deeply serious congregation, many of whom walk in the light of God's countenance Thursday 6, I preached to a large congregation at Rainham : I trust some good will be done here alsO. Friday 7, I returned to London, and again considered, what was to be done in our present temporal circumstances ? After much con sultation, they advised me, I, To appoint a few of our brethren to divide the town between them, and desire our brethren, that were able, to, assist in this exigence : 2, That a collection should be made in al} our preaching-houses for the same purpose. Above three hun dred pounds were raised by these means, whereby the whole diffi culty was removed. Sunday 9, I went down at half an .hour past five, but found no preacher in the chapel, though we had three or four in the. house: so I preached myself. Afterwards inquiring why none of my family attended the morning preaching ? They said it was because they sat up too late. I resolved to put a stop to this: and, therefore, ordered, that, 1, Every one under my roof should go, to bed at nine: that^ 2, Every one might attend the morning preaching : and so they have done ever since. \londay~10, I was desired to see the celebrated wax-work at the Museum in Spring-Gardens. It exhibits most of the crowned heads in Europe, shows their characters in their countenances. Sense and majesty appear in the King of Spain ; dulness and sottishness in the King of France: infernal subtilty in the late King of Prussia (as well as in the skeleton Voltaire:) calmness and humanity in the Emperor, and King of Portugal : exquisite stupidity in the Prince of Orange : arid amazing coarseness, with every thing that is unami- able in the Czarina. In the evening I preached at Peckham to a more awakened con gregation than ever I observed there before. Thursday 1 3, I preached in the evening at Miss Teuton's, in Highgate. I never saw such a congregation there before. - Will there then be good done here at last ? Well, nothing is too hard for God ! Sunday IB, After preaching at Spitalfields, 1 hastened to St. John's, Clarkenwell, and preached a Charity Sermon for the Finsbury Dis pensary, as I would gladly countenance every institution of the kind, Tuesday 18, I retired to Newington, and hid myself- for almost three days. Friday 21, the committee proposed to me, 1, That families of men and women should sit together in both chapels : 2, That every one who took a pew should have it as his own; thus overthrowing, at one blow, the discipline which 1 have been establishing for fifty years ! Saturday 22, I wielded to the importunity of a painter, and sat an hour and a half, in all, for my picture. 1 think it is the best that iver was taken. But what is the picture of a man above fourscore ! Monday 24, We had another meeting of the committee ; who, after a calm and loving consultation, judged it best, 1, That the men and women should sit separate still; and, 2, that none should claim any pew as his own, either in the New-Chapel, or West-street, o MARCH, 1788.] EEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 231 [N. B. A part of Mr. Wesley's, Journal, which should come in here, is lost or mislaid,] February 25, 1788, I took a solemn leave of the congregation at W.^st- Street, b\ applying, once more, what I had enforced fifty years before, By grace ye aresavrd through faith. At the following meet ing, the presence of God, in a very marvellous manner, filled the place. The next evening we had a very numerous congregation at the New Chapel, to which I declared the whole counsel of God. I seemed nowf them in the morning. Tuesday 25, though it blew a storm, and was piercingly cold, we were sufficiently crowded at Dover, where the work of God is very lively, and continually increasing. W ¦dnesday 26, our room at Sandwich being small, both the dissent ing ministers sent to offer me the use of their chapels; I willingly accepted one of them, which was far larger than ours, and very com modious. 1 believe God spoke to many hearts. In the evening we had another storm, with much snow and sleet : however, our house at Margate was well filled ; and I was much comforted by the ear nestness of the'oongregation. Friday 28," A little preaching-house being just built at St. Peter's (two miles from Margate) notice had been given, without my knowledge, of my preaching there in the morning : it was uttely incoavenient on many accounts : the wind was piercingly cold, and the ground covered with snow. However, I would not disappoint the congregation : so I preached at nine, and hastened to Canter bury, where the house was, as usual, well filled : and God gave us his blessing. Tuesday, December 2, I went on to Chatham, and preached in, the evening on We walk by faith, not by sight. Wednesday 3, I went to Sheerness, where the society is considerably increased since I was here before. Thursday 4, at noon I preached at Feversham, where, after a long winter, the seed seems to be springing up. The congregation was very large and deeply attentive. In the eve ning I preached in the new house at Brompton. I had not preached there between thirty and forty years : and there is now a fair pros pect here also. Friday 5, I returned to London. Monday 8, I had the pleasure of meeting an old friend, who gave me a pleasing account of the death of his mother, which had made so deep an impression upon him, that he was almost persuaded to be a Christian. Wednesday 10, and the following days, I corrected my brother's posthumous poems, being short psalms (some few ex cepted) on the four gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. They make five volumes in quarto, containing eighteen or nineteen hun dred pages. They were finished April 25, 1 765, and .revised the eirhtli tine, vlay, 1787: many of these are little, if any thing in ferior to his former poems, having the same justness and strength of thought, with the same beauty of expression ; yea, the same kqen- 25JS bevvjohn wesley's journal. [jan. 1789. ness of wit, on proper occasions, as bright and as piercing as ever, Monday 15, In the evening I preached at Miss Tuelon's school in Highgate. I think it was the coldest night I ever remember. The house we were in stood on the edire of the hill, and the east wind sat full in the window. I counted eleven, twelve, one, and then was obliged to dress, the cramp growing more and more violent: but in the morning, not only the cramp was gone, but likewise the lameness which used to follow it. About this time I was reflecting on the gentle steps whereby age steals upon us. Take only one instance : four years ago my sitrht was as good as it was at five and twenty. I then began to observe, that I did not see things quite so clear with my left eye as with my right: all objects appeared a little browner to that eye. I began next to find some difficulty in reading a small pri it by Candlelight. A year after 1 found it in reading such a print by daylight. In winter, 1786, I could not well read our four shilling hymn-book, unless with a large candle. The next year 1 could not read letters, if written with a small or bad hand. Last winter a pearl appeared on my left eye, the sight of which grew exceedingly dim. The right eye seems unaltered : only I am a great deal nearer sighted than I ever was. Thus are " those that look out at the windows darkened," one of the marks of old age : but I bless God "the grasshopper is not a burden :" I am still capable of travelling, and my memory is much the same as it ever was ; and so I think is my understanding. Thursday, Christmas-day, We began the sevice as usual, at four, in the New Chapel. Notwithstanding the severe frost, which had now lasted a month, the congregation was uncommonly large. I preached here again in the evening: about eleven in the chapel at West-street. This was a comfortable day, as were also the two following. v Sunday 28, I preached at All-hallow's church, on these words in the service, His commandments are not grievous. The congregation was exceedingly, large, and seemed to taste the good word. Tues day 30, the frost continued severe : yet the congregation, was un commonly large in the evening, and God warmed many hearts.. Wednesday 31, A numerous company concluded the old year with a very solemn watch-night. .Hitherto God hath helped us: and we neither see nor feel any of those terrible judgments, which it was said, God would pour out upon the nation, about the conclu sion of the year. For near seventy years I have observed, that before any war or public calamity, England abounds with prophets, who confidently foretell many terrible things. They generally believe themselves, but are carried away by a vain imagination: and they are seldom unde ceived, even by the failure of their predictions, but still believe they will be fulfilled some time or other., 'Thursday, January 1, 1789. If this is to be the last year of my life, according to some of these prophecies, I hope it will be the best. JAN. 1789.] REV. JOHN wesley's journal. 259 I am not careful about it, but heartily receive the advice of the angel in Milton, " How well is thine : how long permit to heaven." Sunday 4, Although the extreme severity of the weather kept many tender people away, yet ue had a large congregation in the evening to renew their covenant with God: and we always find when we avouch him to be our God, he avouches us to be his people. Monday 5, At the earnest desire of Mrs. T — I once more sat for my picture. Mr. Romney is a painter indeed : he struck off an exact likeness at once, and did more in one hour than Sir Joshua did in ten. Tuesday. 6, I retired to Highbury-Place, and on Thurs day 8, to Peckham. Here in the evening I preached to a very serious congregation, although many of them were of the better rank : but rich and poor seemed equally determined 19 work out their own salvation. Friday 9, I left no money to any one in my will, because I had none : but now considering, that whenever I am removed, money will soon arise by sale of books, I added a few legacies by a codicil, to be paid as soon as may be. But I would fain do a little good while I live: for who can tell what will come aftei him ? Sunday 11, I again warned the congregation as strongly as I could against conformity to the world : but who will take warning ? If .hardly one in ten, yet is my record with the. Most High. Tuesday 13, I spent a day or two with my good old friends at Newington. Thursday 1 5, I retired to Camberwell, and carried on my journal, probably as far1 as I shall live to write it. On Thurs day I preached once more at Peckham, and did not shun to declare unto them that had ears to hear, the whole counsel Of God. Friday 16, I looked over the finest picture of atheistical religion that I ever saw, in the account that Captain Wilson gives of Thule, king of Pelew : but how utterly needless is either the knowledge of God (consequently how idle a book is the Bible,) if a man be all- accomplished, that has no more knowledge of God than a horse, and no more of his grace than a sparrow ? Tuesday 20, I retired in order to finish my year's accounts. If possible, T must be a better economist, for instead of having any thing before hand, 1 am now considerably in debt ; but this I do not like ; I would fain settle even my accompts before I die. Sunday 25, Much of the power of God was in tbe congregation, both in morning and afternoon : as also on Monday evening, which gave me a good hope that God will carry on his own work. At the earnest importunity of our friends, on Wednesday 28, I went to open the new preaching-house at Rye . it is a noble building, much loftier than most of our houses, and finely situated at the head of the town. It was thoroughly filled. Such a congregation I never saw at Rye before : and their behaviour was as remarkable as their num- S>60 rev. john wesley's journal. [feb. 1789. ber ; which, added to the peaceable, loving spirit they are now in, gives reason to hope there will be such a work here as has not been heretofore. Thursday 29, I went over to Winchelsea, once a large, flourishing city : but ever since it was burnt by the Danes, a little inconsider able town, though finely situated oh the top of a range of hills. ' The new preaching-house was well filled with flecent, serious hearers, who seemed to receive the truth in the love of it. I returned to Rye in the afternoon, and in the evening preached to another large and serious congregation. Friday 30, we made our way through mise rable roads to Sevenoaks, where the congregation, both evening and morning, was uncommonly large : so (whether I see them again or not) 1 cheerfully commended them to God, and the next morning returned to London. Sunday, February 1 , We had an exceedingly solemn season, both morning and evening. It seemed indeed as if the skies poured down righteousness on all that lifted up their hearts to God. Monday 2, and the following days, I spent in meeting the classes. Friday 6, being the quarterly-day for meeting the local preachers, between twenty and thirty of them met at West-street, and opened their hearts to each other. Taking the opportunity of having them all together, at the watch night I strongly insisted on St. Paul's ad vice to Timothy, Keep that safe xohich is committed to thy trust, parti cularly the doctrine of Christian Perfection, which God has pecu liarly entrusted to the Methodists. Wednesday 11, I went to Brentford, and found the society still alive, and increasing both in strength and number. Thursday 12, I preached once more at Chelsea, where there is at length a fair and promising prospect. . Friday 13, I took a view of that noble build ing, Chelsea -College, and all the parts of it. It is designed to lodge five hundred old soldiers, who are furnished with all things needful for life and godliness. Sunday 15, we had the usual blessing at Spitalfields. Monday 1 6, I went to Dorking. I scarcely find any society in England like this. Year after year it seems at one stay, neither increasing nor decreasing : only if one or two . Hearing tne cry of want of business, even in this, as well as most other trading towns in England, I considered what the mean ing of- it should be : and the case seems plainly this : Two or three years ago business poured into Birmingham, and consequently more hands Were wanting1; but when business returned into its usual channel, they were wanted no longer. These men therefore cer tainly wanted business, and spread the cry over the town. The same raut be the case at vlanchester, Liverpool, and all other towns where there is an extraordinary trade for a time : it must subside again ; and then arises the cry of "want of business." Saturday 21, I had a day < of rest, only preaching morning and evening. Sunday 22, was appointed for my opening the horise at the east end of the town. It would'haie been crowded above mea sure, but that the friendly rain interposed, so that we had only a mo derate congregation. It was otherwise in the 'evening, when heaps upon h- aps were obliged to go away. How white are these fields unto the harvest ! Monday 13, the congregation at Dudley pretty well filled the new house. Thence we hastened to Madeley, where I found Mrs. Fletcher better than she had been for many years ; and young Mr. Fletcher much alive to God, and swiftly growing up into the spirit of his uricle. I preached in the evening, after Mr Home had read prayers, to a deeply serioris congregation, and again at nine in the morning, Wednesday 24, in the prear hing-house she has lately fitted up. Going onto Shrewsbury, at six I preached in the preach ing house, on I Cor xiii. I, 2, 3. Several of the gentry, and seve ral clergymen were there, and I believe not in vain. I had purposed to sei. out eairly in the morning, but was persuaded to stay another day, there being now a fairer prospect at Salop than had beCn before. I preached morning and evening. I have cast my bread upon the waters, and hope it will be found again, at least, after many days.' Thursday 26, We set out early, and taking post horses at Clow- rust, reached Conway between eight and nine o'clock, having tra velled seventy-eight miles that day, twenty-eight more than from Chester to Conway. Friday 27, We went on to Holyhead, and at eight in the evening went ori board the Claremont packet. The wind stood fair three or four hours: it then turned against us, and blew hard. I do not remember I was ever so sick at sea before : but this was little to the AtftIL, 1789.] EEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. &t}3 cramp which held me most of the night with little intermission. All Saturday we were beating to and fro, and gaining little ground : and I was so ill throughout the day as to be fit for nothing : but I slept well in the night, and about eight in the morning, Sunday 29, came safe to Dublin Quay. I went straight up to the new room. We had a numerous con gregation, and as serious as if we had been at West-street. I preached on the sickness and recovery of King Hezekiah, and King George : and great was our rejoicing. I really took knowledge of the change which God has wrought in this congregation within a few years. A great part of them were light and airy : now almost all appear as serious as death. Monday 30, I began preaching at five in the morning, and the congregation both then and the follow ing mornings, was far larger in proportion than those at London. Meantime I had letter upon letter concerning the Sunday service : but I could not give any answer till I had made a full inquiry both into the occasion and the effects of it. The occasion was this : About two years ago it was complained,' that few of our society at tended the church on Sunday : most of them either sitting at home, or going on Sunday morning to some dissenting meeting : hereby many of them were hurt, and inclined to separate from the church. To prevent this, it was proposed to have service at the room, which I consented to, on condition that they would attend St. Patrick's every first Sunday in the month. The effect was, 1, That they went no more to the meetings, 2, That three times more went to St. Pa trick's (perhaps six times more) in six or twelve months, than had done for ten or twenty years before. Observe ! this is not done to prepare for, but to prevent a separation from the church. On the mornings of this and the< following week I expounded the thirteenth chapter of the first epistle to the Corinthians : such a com pendium of true religion as none but the author of it can give. The evening congregations were exceedingly large, as well as deep ly attentive. Friday, April 3, I preached at Bethesda, and with much liberty of spirit. Saturday 4, I preached in Gravel-walk house, so filled as I never saw it before ; and they all seemed, to hear as for life : it was a comfortable night. Sunday 5, I preached in the new room at seven. At eleven I went to the cathedral. I desired that those of our society, who did not go to their parish churches, would go with me to St. Patrick's: many of them did so. It' was said, the number of communicants was about five hundred. More. than went there in the whole year, before Methodists were known in Ireland. Monday 6, To-day, and for some days following!, I was so over- borne-with letters that I had hardly time to do any thing but to read and answer them. Wednesday 8, I visited- and administered the sacrament to our poor widows* four and twenty of whom are toler ably provided for in our widow's house. The frowardness and stubbornness of some of these, was, for a time, a grevious trial to vol. 4—1 i 264 rev. john wesley's journal. [april, 1789- the rest: but this is past. They are all now of a better spirit, and adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour. Thursday 9, In the evening I met, for the second time, the bands: I admired them much ; they are more open than those either in London or Bristol ; and I think here is a greater number of those that are now clearly perfected in love than I now find even in Lon don itself. Friday 10, Being Good-Friday, I accepted of the pressing invita- tation of Mr. Smyth, and preached at Bethesda both morning and evening : in the morning, on the new covenant, as it is now given to the Israel of God : and in the evening on Heb. ix. 13, 14, If the blood of bulls, &c. At both times we had a brilliant congregation, among whom were honourable and right honourable persons. But I felt they were all given into my hands ; for God was in the midst. What a mercy is it, what a marvellous condescension in God to pro vide such places as Bethesda, and Lady Huntingdon's chapels, for these delicate hearers, who could not bear sound doctrine if it were not set off with these pretty trifles ! Sunday 12, (Easter-Day.) We had a solemn assembly indeed, many hundred communicants in ,the morning and in the afternoon, far more hearers than our room would contain, though it is now con siderably enlarged. Afterwards I met the society, and explained to them, at large, the original design of the Methodists, viz. Not to be a distinct party, but to stir up all parties, Christians or Heathens,„to worship God in spirit and in truth ; but the Church of England in particular, to which they belonged from the beginning. With this view I have uniformly gone on for fifty years, never varying from the doctrine of the Church at all ; nor from her discipline, of choice, but of necessity. So, in a course of years, necessity was laid upon me, (as I have proved elsewhere,) 1, To preach in the open air : 2, To pray extempore : 3, To form societies : 4, To accept of the as sistance of lay preachers ; and, in a few other instances, to use such means as occurred, to prevent or remove evils that we either felt or feared. We set out early on Monday 13, and about twelve reached Clo- nard, five and twenty Irish miles from Dublin. Three or four times as many as the house could contain, met together at five o'clock : the power of -God was remarkably present, when divers were cut to the heart ; and perhaps none more so than the-master of the house. We had another good opportunity at seven in the morning, Tuesday 14, Avhich we closed with a serious, pointed conversation, and then went on to Tyrrel's-pass. Though the wind was piercingly cold, the multitude of people obliged me to preach abroad in the evening: after which 1 gave them all a plain account. of the design of Method ism ; namely, not to separate from the church, but to unite together all the children of God that were scattered abroad. Wednesday 15, About ten I preached to a small congregation in the court-house in Molingar. We had a far different congregation, both as to number and spirit, in Longford court-house in the evening ¦ A'PRIL, 1789.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 265 k was a beautiful sight. Great part of them came again at seven in the morning, and seemed to relish those words, He that doth the will of God, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. Thursday 16, Heavy rain came on in the evening ; yet the preach ing-house at Kenagh would not contain the peojile. Friday 17, I came to my old friends at Athlone : but, to nty surprise, I found them heaps upon heaps, I hastened to hear the contending parties face to face, and was amazed to find, how much matter a little fire kindles Some of the leaders had causelessly taken offence at the assistant He called on Mr. R. and warned him against imbibing the same prejudice, telling hun, "If he did, he must beware of the consequence," (meaning thereby the mischief it would do among the people.) Misunderstanding this word, he grew very angry. Others took part with him. and the society was in an uproar. I talked with him till I was tired, but in vain. One might as well have talked to the north wind. So 1 gave him up to God, and only en deavoured to quench the flame among the people. Saturday 18, Was a day of peace. Sunday 19, the commanding officer sending to offer me the use of any part_ of the barracks, I preached at five in the riding house, a very spacious building, to a multitude of people, on Believe iri the Lord Jesus Christ', and thou shall be saved. I think the word did not fall to the ground. Mon day 20, I preached about eleven at B— , and at' six in the church at Aughrim. It was much, fuller than when I preached here before :¦ and many papists were there, whi>, as the minister informed me, had attended the church ever since i was there before. Tuesday 21, About ten I preached in Eyre-Court Church, so filled as I suppose it never Was b. fore ; and many of the hearers seemed to feel the word. Thence we went on to Birr. How is the scene changed here ! One of the dullest places in Ireland is become one of the liveliest ! But I could not preach abroad in the evening, by reason of the rain : so we made all the room we could in the preaching-house and in the yard ; and a most solemn opportunity we had. Wednesday 22, About noon 1 preached in the beautiful, new court-house at Tullamore. Deep attention sat on the rich as well as the poor ; as it did likewise at Coolylough in the evening. Thursday 23, Being the thanksgiving-day for the recovery of his Majesty's health, I preached in the court-house at Portarlington, as soon as the church service ended. The congregation was exceed ingly well-dressed, but careless and ill-behaved. At six I preached in the ohurch at Mount Mellick, crowded with hearers of quite another kind. They were all attention, and in the morning, filled the preaching house. Friday 24, The church, at Maryborough was far larger, and one of the most elegant that I have seen in the kingdom. It was thoroughly filled in the evening, although many of the hearers looked as if they had not been in a church belore : but iri half an hour they -were serious as death : and in the morning, Saturday 25, the •266 KEY. JOHN wesley's JOURNAL. [may, 1789. lower part of the church was well filled. Surely many will remem ber that day. In the evening I preached at Carlow ; where, that I might not overshoot the congregation, I preached on So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Sunday 26, I preached in the morning, and at five in the evening: the people were vefy civil, and many of them attentive ; but I think the time of Carlow is not yet come. Monday 27, I reached Ennis corthy about noon ; and presently after, as it had continued to rain, I preached in the place prepared for me, which was a large, though not very elegant,, cow-house : however, God was there : as likewise in the assembly-room at Wexford, where I preached to a large congregation in the evening. Tuesday 28, About noon we reached the ferry, on the west side of which Mrs. Deaves was waiting. She pressed me much to go with her in the chaise, and at least to dine at her house, saying, " Mr. Deaves was willing to settle the house in any way that 1 desired !" The same thing he said to me himself; so I hoped all things would end well. In the evening I preached to a numerous congregation, on Mark iii. 35. The God of peace and love was in the midst of us, and seemed to affect the whole assembly. Wednesday 29, We had a large congregation in the morning. At breakfast, and at tea, on these two days, I met all the society, (eight or ten excepted,) and we greatly confirmed our love to each other. In the evening I preached to a larger congregation than before, on / am, not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. Afterwards I strongly exhorted them all to rehearse no past grievances, and only to provoke one another to love and good works. Friday, May I, We went to Capoquin : the rain preventing my preaching abroad, I accepted of a very large room which was offer ed me in the barracks. As we went up the street, we had a very numerous retinue, hallooing and shouting with all their might ; but the sentinel keeping out the mob, we had a quiet congregation within. Sunday 3, The house at Cork was filled with people, as well as with the power of God. Monday 4, so it was again at five, when I endeavoured to quench the fire which some had laboured to kindle among the poor, quiet people, about separating from the church. In the evening I preached on Luke viii. 24, and the word was as fire, it pierced to the dividing of soul and spirit, joints and marrow. Tuesday 5, being not very well in the mOrning, 1 desired Joseph Bradford to preach. In the evening I preached on Remember from whence thou art fallen, and repent and do thy first works. Many, I believe, are earnestly purposed so to do. May God give them the power ! Wednesday 6, I preached on that remarkable prophecy, Gen. ix. 27, which is so eminently fulfilled at this day, wherein God does "Seize the servile progeny of Ham." Thursday 7, I went to Bandon and finished the Life of Baron Trenck ; the strangest I ever read. Was there ever such a fiend incarnate as the late king of Prussia ? To inflict such unheard-of torments for so many years. MAY, 1789.] REV. JOflN wesley's JOURNAL. 267 for no fault ! Good it had been for him, if he had never been born 1 Yet, what a wret?h was Trenck himself ! He made not the least scruple of adultery and murder ! And does not appear to have a jot more religion than an inhabitant of Otaheite '. I think therefore this is a most dangerous book ; I wish none that cares for his soul would read a page of it. In the evening, I preached in the new preaching-house, twice or thrice as large as the old. It was well filled both this evening and the next : but I did not find the same life in this people as in those at Cork. But God is able to cause all grace to abound here also. Saturday 9, I returned to Cork, and earnestly enforced, Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Sunday 10, After preaching I administered the Lord's Supper to about four hundred and fifty communicants. 1 was enabled to speak with power in the evening, t? more than the house could contain, and afterwards to the society. May God write it on all their hearts ! I am now clear of their blood. Monday 1 1, At half an hour after two we reached Kilkenny, and at six I preached on One thing is needful. A few seemed to under stand what I meant : as also at five in the morning, when I expound ed, There is neither work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest. Tuesday 1 2, I felt myself a good deal out of order : however, I pushed on to Limerick, where the Rev. Mr Ingram, (one of the chaplains of the cathedral) gladly received me : so did Mrs. Ingram and all the lovely family, where I wanted nothing which the king dom could afford. At six the house would not contain the congre gation. I preached on. There is one God. And it seemed as if all under the roof were sensible of his presence. Wednesday 1 3, I was not well able to preach in the morning, so Joseph Bradford took my place : but about eleven I preached my self at Pallas, about twelve miles from Limerick. All the remains of the Palatine families came hither from Balligarane, Court Mat- tris, and Ratkeal, in all which places an uncommon flame has lately broken out, such as was never seen before. Many in every place have been deeply convinced, many converted to God, and some per fected in love. Some societies are doubled in number, some in creased six, or even tenfold. All the neighbouring gentry were likewise gathered together ; so that no house could contain them, but I wasobliged to stand abroad* The people, as it were, swal lowed every word, and great was our rejoicing in the Lord. Thurs day 14, I preached in the morning on Rev. ii. 4, 5 : in the evening on Luke iv. 18. All the congregation were, for the present, much affected ; with many, I trust, the impression will continue. Friday 1 5, We set out at five, and between three and four reached Castleboy. In the evening I preached at Kilcbrist to so large a con gregation that I was obliged to preach abroad, though it rained all the time. As I had not been well for some days, this did me no good : but I held up till Saturday 16, when we came to Ballinrobe, 1268 rev. john wesley's journal. [may, 1789. and then gave up and let another preach. After a very uneasy night on Sunday 17, I went on to Castlebar, and, finding myself much better, preached in the evening to a lovely congregation. But I was obliged to let Joseph Bradford preach in the morning, on Monday 1 8. Being stronger in thf evening, I preached again, and met the earnest society increasing both in number and grace. Tuesday 19, retiring to a friend's house, about a mile from the town, I took a full account of the late wonderful affair of Mr. F d. Mr. George Robert F d, at his first settling near Castlebar, about the year 1 776, made himself very popular : but mean time his pride was excessive, affirming, that being the head of the Des mond family, he was the premier nobleman of Ireland ; therefore he expected that all the country should submit to him : hence he fell into disputes with his father, and, by turns, with his brother, and kept his neighbours in perpetual alarm. In 1779, when volunteer ing began, he raised a company, which was wholly subject to trim. Soon after, he engaged Patrick Randal M'Donald, a relation, as a captain in his company. But not long after, a dispute arose be tween them, relative to the driving of some cattle. Mr. M'D., being informed that Mr. F. intended violence to him, placed some men near his own house, and ordered them, if he approached the house, to fire. Mr. F. approaching, one of them did fire, which killed his horse, and wounded him in the knee and leg. . On this he pro secuted Mr. M'D. at the following assizes ; who, after a full hearing, was acquitted. Another matter of contention soon ensued. Mr. M'D., being an attorney, was employed against Mr. F., and carried the suit. This inflamed Mr. F. beyond measure, of which Mr M'D. was frequent ly informed. This continued,. however; to the close of the year 1785 : when Mr. M'D. being at Castlebar one night, a blunderbuss, charged with eight or nine bullets and slugs, was discharged through the window of the room where he used to sit. Immediately after Christmas, the witness, Mr. R. G., was sitting in Mr. M.'s cellar, bottling some wine, when he heard a very uncommon sound of a musket, and a loud shriek following it. Going out, the first thing he saw was Mr. M'D., wounded in the leg. On his cry, three men ran out of the little house of Mr. F., whence the gun had been fired from a hole through tht wall, which had been made on purpose. He then took a lodging in Castlebar. But on the 20th of Feb ruary, 1786, accompanied by Mr. G., Mr. H:, and Mr. M., went to his house in the country They had been but a while there, when they found it surrounded by many armed men ; on which Mr. M'D.'s friends made their escape to a neighbouring village. Mean time they broke into his house, and not finding him, broke into seve ral houses. At length they came to the house where he was, fired several balls through the doors and windows. Then they broke in and made VI 'Donald, Gallagher, and Hipson, prisoners ; and one Fulton Said he had a warrant against them. They desired he would bring them before Sir Neal O'Donnel, a magistrate, then within five MAY, 1789.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 269 miles. But, instead of this, they were tied and dragged to F.'s house in Turlogh, where they continued all night. Tuesday, February 21, About six they were marched out with a large company, under pretence of carrying them before a magistrate. Gallagher and Hipson were tied together; M'Donald being suf fered to ride, because of his wound, a ruffian holding his bridle. When they got about half a mile from Turlogh, a shot was fired from the rear, which wounded one Of the ruffians ; F - — d contriving it so, that they might cry a rescue, on hearing of which they were or dered instantly to despatch the prisoners Immediately several shots were fired at the prisoners. Hipson was shot dead, and Gallagher wounded. M'Donald had both his arms broken : but his horse took fright and broke from the ruffian. Gallagher had crept a little way, but they soon found him. Some were for despatching him instantly, but others moved to carry him to Mr. F d's. At his house he was kept prisoner all the night. Wednesday 22, The news coming to Castlebar, Mr. Ellison, the magistrate, went up with a large party of the army to Turlogh. They rushed in ; but, after searching all the house, could not find F. ; till two young men went into a room, where was a large trunk ; on touching the hasp of which, he jumped up like a harlequin, fell upon his knees, and begged " they would not kill him." He was then carried out and committed to Castlebar jail, where he remain ed till the June following. He was found guilty on June 6, and executed the twelfth. After drinking a bottle of port, he went out of prison, with the air of one going to a ball. He gave a spring off the ladder, which snapped the rope in two: he fell down, but in stantly leaped up. All his courage was gone, and none could die more penitent. Sunday 17, Having been a good deal out of order for some days, I had thoughts of returning straight to London : but I judged it best to try a little longer : so I set out for Castlebar. In a moment I felt an entire change ; only I felt a little feverish : but this did not hinder my preaching in the evening, nor God from giving us an un common blessing. The same attended us on the following evening; but more eminently on Tuesday, both morning and evening: as well as in the administration of the Lord's Supper, in which two clergy men desired to partake with us. . ni. Wednesday 20, We set out between three and four, and in just twelve hours reached Sligo. There I met S. Pennington once more, with her lovely daughter and son-in-law I never before saw such acongregatiOn in Sligo, so numerous and so serious. Does there yet another day of visitation appear, even for this desolate place ? Thursday 21, 1 was constrained, by the earnestness of the people, to preach at five, though with much difficulty ; my tongue literally cleaving to the roof of my mouth, through extreme dryness. Between nine and ten I was agreeably surprised at Manor-Hamilton, where I expected little good. But the power of God fell upon the congre- 270 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [MAY, 1789. gation, in a very uncommon degree, so that scarcely any one was unaffected. We then hobbled on, through wonderful roads, to Annadale, where we soon forgot all the labours of the day : for which the amiable family, and the earnest congregation, made us" large amends. Friday 22, We went on to Balliconnel, where I was nothing glad that the rain drove us into our melancholy house : however, we had a comfortable meeting; and, I believe, many found their desires increased, of worshipping God in spirit and in truth. Saturday 23, between ten and eleven I preached at Killesharidra, in a pleasant meadow, to a large and attentive congregation, though we had a few light showers of rain. Hence we went through a most beautiful country, equal to any in England, to Killmore. After dining at Mr. Creighton's, we took a walk to see the remains of the venerable cas^- tle, where Bishop Bedell was confined. It stands on a fine lake, being built exactly round, with walls nine feet thick. It is remark ably high, but has been for many years without an inhabitant, one aide of it being beaten down by Oliver Cromwell. A very large congregation, from all parts, assembled in the evening ; to whom I proclaimed Jesus Christ, made of God unto us wisdom, and righteous ness, and sanctification, and redemption Sunday 24, At seven I preached in the town-hall at Cavan, to a very 'large and well-behaved congregation. As I went through Ballibays, the poor people flocked round me on every side, and would not be contented till I came out of the chaise, and spent some time with them in prayer. I expected, being a fair morning, to see a huge congregation at Clones. : but, while we were at church, the rain came on : so all I could do in the evening, was to let Joseph Bradford preach to as many as the house would contain, and to ad minister the Lord's Supper to our own society Monday 25 I preached to a multitude of" people, in the Old Camp, on All things are ready, come ye to the marriage. The con gregation seemed ready to receive every word. I have hardly seen, since 1 left Cork, such congregations, either for number or serious ness, as is this at Clones. Tuesday 26, The rain prevented my preaching abroad at Brooks- borough, although the congregation was exceedingly large. Part of them were sheltered by a spacious turf-house, and the rest little regarded the rain ; for the Lord watered us, in an uncommon de gree, with the dew of his blessing. And a more affectionate family than Mr. M'CartyN, I have not found in the kingdom. This ap peared more particularly in the morning, Wednesday 27, when we were talking together, one and another fell upon their knees all round me, and most of them burst out into tears and earnest cries, the like of which 1 have seldom heard, so that we scarcely knew how to part. At noon I preached to an unwieldy multitude in the market-house at Enniskillen ; and I am persuaded not in vain ; God was there of a truth. I concluded the day by preaching at Sidare. to the old, steady congregation. JUNE, 1789.] REy. JOHN WESLEY S JOURNAL. 271 Thursday 28, I went on to Kirlish-lodge, through storms of wind and rain : yet we had a large congregation of serious people, though divers came from far. In the morning, Friday 29, we spent an hour at Lord Abercorn's seat ; three miles from Newtown-Stewart. The house is elegant in. the highest degree, both within and without. It stands on a little eminence over a fine river, in a most beautiful park. But the owner has npt so much as the beholding it with his eyes, spending all his time in England. Between Newtown and Moyle we had such rain as I never saw in Europe before, In two minutes the horsemen were drenched from head to foot. We dined atihe rector's, Dr. Wilson's, a man of very uncommon learning, particularly in the oriental tongues. At six he took me in his coach to the Castle-yard, where a numerous congregation soon assembled. Almost as soon as I began to preach the rain began. Observing the people begin to scatter, I prayed aloud, that God' would stay the bottles of heaven : he. did so; the people returned, and we had a comfortable refreshing shower of heart-reviving love. Saturday 30, I took a view of the improve- ments round the house, which are wonderfully pleasant. I have seen few comparable to them in the kingdom, except D. Leslie's at Tandragee. Sunday 31, (Whit-sunday) I preached at Londonderry at ten, two hours before the church service began, on They were all lied with the Holy Ghost. I found an agreeable prospect here; a neat con venient preaching-house just finished ; a society increasing, and well united together ; and the whole city prejudiced in favour of it. On Monday and Tuesday the congregations . were uncommonly large, though we had rain every day : particularly on Tuesday eve ning, when the hearts of the people seemed to be as melting wax : and likewise at five on Wednesday morning : I preached on Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord. A good farewell to Lon donderry. Wednesday, -June 3, A quarter of an hour after I set orit, the axle-tree of my chaise snapped in two. In about half an hour I procured another chaise, and in three hours reached Newtown Limavady Finding a congregation was waiting for me in the preach- ingihouse, I -went to th< m without delay. Tbe house was thoroughly filled with deeply attentive hearers, and the power of God was among them. We Went hence through miserable roads to Colerain, but the com pany there made amends for them. We met with aright English so ciety, in spirit, in carriage, and even in dress But 1 was concerned to find John Stephens, a lovely young -preacher, in a deep consump tion, from which, I judge, nothing can recover him, unless, per haps, a total butter-milk diet. In the evening the large meeting house which was. offered me was well filled, though the rain was heavy. Thursday 4, 1, was fully employed in answering a heap of letters, In the evening, the rain continuing, as it has done almost every day vol. 4— K k 272 REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [JUNE, 1789. since we set out from Dublin, I was glad to accept of the meeting house again, which was fuller than the evening before Friday 5, we went a few miles out of our way to call at a small village, where abundance of people flocked to the church, and appeared to be quite ripe for the gospel : so, I preached on Now is the accepted lime : now is the day of _: alvation. Thence we hastened on to Balli- mena, where the rain did us no harm by driving us into the meeting house, where a large congregation cheerfclly heard the wo'd that is able to save their souls. , - , - , Saturday 6, The, largest meeting-house I have been in was that which I preached in at Antrim: and the people^behaved exceedingly well ; the children as well as the rest. Iri the evening I was at the new chapel at Lisburn, the largest and bpsi finished in the North of Ireland. Sunday 7, it was well filler! aj nine We wt-nt to church a little before tw elve, where the singing was admirably good ; tbe clerk, who teaches them to sing, having been formerly a leader hi our society. The day continuing stormy, 1 could not preach in the street, but we Were glad to retreat info, the linen-balk Here was such a congregation a- I .have not seen since I came into the king dom :, but some things, called , gentlemen, were walking to and fro and talking, during the greatest part of the. serrnpn. If these had been poor men, probably they would have had common sense ! The meeting of the society which followed, lat which we permitted many others to be present) was exceedingly solemn,- The power of God fell upon mahy. I observed one gentlewoman in particular that wept and trembled exceedingly. I. did not wonder there fore, that the room was filled at five, and that we had a parting blessing. Monday 8, We went on to Belfast. I had, at first, thought of preaching in the linen-hall ; but the weather being very uncertain, I went to the heads of the lahje meeting-house to desire the use of it ;. which they granted in the most obliging manner. It is the com- pletest place of. .public worship 1 have ever seen. It is of an oval form' as I judge by my. eye, a hundred feet long, and seventy, or eighty broad. It is very lofty, and has two rows" of large windows,. so that it is as light as our New- Chapel in London. And the rows of pillars, with every other part, are so finily;proportiofied? that it is beautiful iri the highest, degree. . , The house was so crowded, both within and without, (and indeed with some of the most respeciable persons in the town) that it Was with the utmost difficulty I got in ; but 1 then found I went not up without the Lord. Great was my liberty of speech among them; great was our glorying in the Lord : so that 1 gave notice (contrary to my first design) of my intending to- preach there again in the morning : but soon after, the sexton sent me word," It must not be; for the crowds had damaged the house; and some of them had broken off and carried away the silver which was on the Bible in the pul pit." So I desired one of our preachers to preach in our little house. and left Belfast early in the mornimr. -JUNE, 1789.] REV. JOHN wesley's JOURNAL. 273 Tuesday 9, About eight I came once more to NewtqWn, where I had not been for eleven years, and preached at nbe directly tothe preachers, on If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God: and 1 am persuaded God applied his word to many of their hearts. Wednesday 5, About noon we left Leeds : and that evening went to Newark, about seventy miles. Thursday 6, we set out early, and between four and five reached Hinxworth. I was now pretty well inclined to rest : but a congregation soon getting together, 1 would not disappoint them, but preached on We love him because he first loved us. And after preaching, and travelling fourscore miles, I was no more tired than when I set out in the morning. Friday 7, we reached London between one and two, and found great reason to. praise the gracious- power which had preserved us by sea and by land, in all . known and unknown dangers, unto the present hour. Saturday 8, I settled all my temporal business, and, in particular, chose a new person to prepare the Armihian Magazine, being ob liged, however unwillingly, to drop Mr. O— -, for only these two reasons, 1, The errata are insufferable : I have borne them for these twelve years, but can bear them no longer : secondly, several pieces are inserted without my knowledge, both in prose and verse: I must try whether these things cannot be amended for the short residue of my life. Sunday 9, The New-Chapel was sufficiently crowded, both in the morning and at four in the afternoon. At seven we set out, and about noon on Monday 9, reached Bristol. Finding all things here in a flourishing state, I set out for the West, early on Tuesday morn ing, and had an exceedingly pleasant journey to Taunton, where we had a full and serious congregation in the evening Wednesday 10, I had no thought of preaching at Collmnpton, though we were, to pass through it : but I yielded to importunity, and preached at one to a numerous audience. Thence We went on to Exeter, where the people were in high expectation of. seeing the King, who appointed to be there the next day . however, a pretty large congregation as sembled ; to which 1 peached at six o'clock. We set out at three, on Thursday 13, and reached Plymouth between one and two iri the afternoon. I preached to a large audience in the evening : and al- 578 rev. john wesley's journal. [aug. 1789. though the day was extremely hot, yet I found myself better yester day and to-day than I have been for some months. Friday 14, In the afternoon I went on to the Dock, having pre viously determined, not to say or hear any thing of their late sense less quarrel, wherein. 1 could not but blame both sides, and knew not which to blame most : so I spent this and the next day in peace, and answered all my letters. Sunday 16; In the morning, I believe we had not lrss than six hundred communicants : but they were all admirably well behaved as if they indeed discerned the Lord's body. But when I preached in the afternoon, the house would not hold half the congregation. I chose the space adjoining the south side of the house, capable of containing some thousands of people ; besides, some hundreds sat on the ridge of the rock which ran along at my left hand, I preached on part of the gospel for the day, He beheld the city and wept over it : and it seemed as if every one felt " His heart is made of tenderness ; His bowels melt with love." Monday 17, Setting out at three, we easily reached our friends at St. Austle by dinner time : but I knew not where to preach, the street being so dirty, and the prea< hing-house so small : at length we determined to squeeze as many as we could into the preaching- house, arid truly God was there Tuesday 18, we went on to Truro, where I had appointed to preach at twelve o'clock : but here an unforeseen hinderance occurred ; I could not get through the main- street to our preaching-house. It was quite blocked up with soldiers to the east, and numberless tinners to the west, a huge multitude of whom being nearly starved, were come to beg, or demand an in crease of their wages, without which they could not live. So we were obliged to retire to the other end of the town, where I preach ed under the coinage-hall to twice as many people, rich and poor, as the preaching-horise would have contained : and many of them would not have come thither at all. How wise are all the ways of God ! In the afternoon, as we could not pass by the common road, we procured leave to drive, round by some fields, a d got to Falmouth in good time The last time 1 was here, above forty years ago, I was taken prisoner by an immense mob, gaping and roaring like lions : but how is the tide turned, high and 16 w now -lined the street from one end of the town to the other, out of stark love and kind ness, gaping and staring as if the King were going by. In the eve ning I preached on the smooth top of the hill, at a small distance from the sea, to the largest congregation I have ever seen in Corn wall, except in or near Redruth : and such a time I have not known before, since I returned from Ireland. God moved wonderfully on the hearts of the people, who all seemed to know the day of their visitation. AUG. 1789.] REV. JOHN wesley's journal, 279 Wednesday 19, I preached at noon in the high street in Helston, to the largest and most serious congregation which. I ever remem ber to have seen there. Thursday 20, I went on to St. Just, and preached in the evening to a lovely congregation, many of whom have not left their first love. Friday 21, about eleven I preached at Newlin, and in the evening at Penzance. At both places- I was obliged to preach abroad. Saturday 22, I crossed over to Redruth, and at six preached to a large multitude aS usual, from the steps of the market-house. The word seemed to sink deep into/every heart. I know not that ever I spent such a week in Cornwall before. Sunday 23, I preached there again in the morning, and in the evening at the amphitheatre, I suppose for the last time ; for my voice cannot now command the still increasing multitude. Jt was supr posed they were now more than five and twenty thousand. I think it scarcely possible that all should hear. Monday 24, Calling at Morazion, in my way to Penzance, where I had promised to preach once more, the house was filled in a few minutes, so that I could not refrain from preaching a short sermon : and God was there of a truth. We had a rainy afternoon, so I was obliged to preach in the new preaching-house, considerably the largest, and in many respects far the best in Cornwall. Tuesday 25, I went to St. Ives and preached as usual, on one side of the market-place. Well nigh all the town attended, and with all possible seriousness. Surely forty years labour has not been in vain here ! Wednesday 26, I returned to Redruth, and applied to the great congregation, God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself. 1 then met the society, and explained, at large, the rise and nature of Methodism. And still aver, I have never read or heard of, either in ancient or modern history, any other church which builds on so broad a foundation-as the Methodists do ; which requires of its members no conformity, either in opinions or modes of worship, but barely this one thing, to fear God and work righteousness. . Thursday 27, We set out early, and reached Truro soon after five. I preached at six to a house full of serious people, on Awake, thou that steepest. The congregation seemed to be awake. Thence we hastened forward to Port-Isaac. I preached in the evening, in an open part of the town, to almost all the inhabitants of it. How changed since the time when he that invited me durst not take me in for fear his house should be pulled down ! Friday 28, J preached at nine in our new house at Camelford, thoroughly filled, though at a short warning : and at six in the eve ning, in the new house at Launceston, still too small for the congre gation, who seemed exceeding lively. So there is a fair prospect in Cornwall, from Launceston to the Land's End. Saturday 29, going through Tavistock, a poor man asked me to preach. . I began in about a quarter of an hour, the preaching-houso being filled directly, but, with so poor a congregation as I have not seen before for twice vol. 4^-L 1 280 rev. john wesley's journal. [sept. 1789. seven years. In the evening I preached at Plymouth-dock to a very different congregation, but equally serious. Sunday 30, Our service began at ten :. the rain prevented the chapel being too much crowded. In the evening I preached at Ply mouth, on How long halt ye between two opinions ? It w as an awful season. Afterwards 1 spent a comfortable evening with a few of our serious brethren. The jars both here and at the dock seem now to be over, and the contending parties are willing to live in peace. Monday 31, We set out at three, in a lovely morning, and reach ed Exeter between twelve and one. Here the scene was much changed : many of the people were scattered, and the rest faint and dead enough. The preaching-house was swiftly running to ruin, the rain running through the roof into it amain : and five or six tenants living in the house were noisy enough, having none to control them. We called earnestly upon God to arise, and maintain his own cause. He did so in the evening congregation, which was much larger than usual, while I strongly enforced the parable of the sower, and the dread of God seemed to rest on the whole con gregation. Tuesday, September 1, We went through a delightful country to Tiverton. , Iri the evenirig, the Independent minister offering the use of his meeting-house, far larger than ours, I willingly accepted his offer. The congregation was far the largest I have seen in Tiverton for niany years. I preached on Mark iii. 25, and it seemed all had ears to hear. Wednesday 2, I preached at Halberton. I spoke here before in the open air, but the rain .prevented it now : so, as many as could conveniently, got into the house. When we set out, one of my horses was quite lame, so that it was with great difficulty I could get to Taunton. In the evening we had ^uch a congregation, as, I sup pose, was never in that house before. Surely the ancient work will some time revive, and the prayers of that blessed man, Joseph Al- leyne, be answered. Thursday 3, Being obliged to take posthorses at Taunton, we went on to Castle-Cary. Here we found a little company of lively Christians. We found such another, Friday 4, at Ditchet : but the rain drove us into the house ; where, as many as could squeeze in, seemed to be much affected. , In the evening I preached at Shep- ton, where the flame kindled some time since, is not yet extinguished. The next day we went on to Bristol. Sunday 6, I read prayers, and preached, and administered the sacrament to many hundreds of communicants. I preached in the evening as usual ; and spent a little more time with the society than I commonly do : but it was more than I could well do ; yet, in four and twpnty hours I was as well as usual. The fair brought abundance of strangers to the preaching on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednes day. Thursday 10, I went over to Thornbury, where we preached nearly fifty years, and hardly saw any fruit. But whom can we sept. 1789.] rev. john wesley's journal. 281 despair of? Now at length it seems that God's time is come. A few men of substance in the town have built' a, neat and commodious preaching-house. It was filled within and without with serious hearers : and they did not hear in vain. Friday 11, I went over to Kingswood: sweet recess! Where every thing is now just as I wish : but " Man was not born in shades to dwell I" Let us work now ; we, shall rest by and by! Saturday 12, 1 spent some time with the children ; all of whom behaved well ; several are much awakened, and a few rejoicing in the favour of God. Sunday 13, As Mr. Baddiley assisted me in the morning, I took the opportunity of preaching at Kingswood in the afternoon, and abroad in the evening ; and was abundantly better in the evening than in the morning. Monday 14, I spent an agreeable hour with Mr. Ireland and Mr. Romaine, at Brislington. I could willingly spend some time here ; but I have none to spare. Tuesday 15, In the evening 1 preached at Pensford, to an un common congregation, and with an uncommon blessing. Wednes day 1 6, I went on to Midsummer-Norton. I never saw the church so full before. I preached on that verse in one of the psalms for the day, Open thij mouth wide, and I will fill it : many, I believe, found the promise true. In the evening I preached to our honest, earnest colliers, at Coleford : most of whom attended again at five in the morning. Thursday 17, I preached at Frome to a much larger audience, and with much of the presence of God. Friday 18, At noon I preached at Trowbridge, in an open place, to a multitude of people ; and in the evening to our old steady con gregation at Bradford, but many of them are gone into a better world. Scarcely any of the rich and honourable are left : but it is enough that: the gospel is preached to the poor. Saturday 19, at Bath the scene is changed again : here we have the rich and honour able in abundance: and yet abundance of them came even in a stormy night, and seemed as attentive as colliers. Sunday 20, 1 know not that ever I had so large a number of com municants before ; after I had applied strongly, Neither circumcision availeth any thing; nor uncireumcision, but a new creature. In the afternoon I applied strongly, God forbid that. I should glory, &c. ; and in the evening returned to Bristol. On Monday 21, and the three following days, I visited the classes at Bristol. Friday 25, I spent an hour at Clarehili with Mr. Hen derson, I believe, the best physician for lunatics in England: but he could not save the life of his only son ! Who was probably taken to bring his father to God ! > Sunday 27, I preached at the New Room morning and evening, and in the afternoon at Temple ehurch : but it was full as much as I could do. I doubt I must not hereafter attempt to preach more than twice a day. Monday 28, I strongly enforced the caution of 282 K.EV. john wesley's journal. [oct. 1789. St. Faul, Be not conformed to this world. But who can enforce it enough ? For what destruction does this conformity bring upon the children of God !. Tuesday 29, Being much importuned, I went to Churchill, about twelve miles west of Bristol : the rain was heavy, yet many of the poor people made their way through it ; so that the church they said, has scarcely ever been so filled before.. After the service, many stayed in the church, because of the rain : so I spent some time with them in singing and prayer; and our hearts were much comfort ed together. Thursday, October 1,1 went over to Rath, and preached once more to a very large congregation, on 1 Peter i. 14. Friday 2, we had a solemn watch-night at Kingswood ; and most of the people stayed to the end. Sunday 4, I proposed preaching abroad Once more in the afternoon, but just before five the rain began : so 1 could only enforce, in the room, those solemn words in the first lessori for the day, Turnye, turn ye from your evil ways, &c. Monday 5, We set out at four ; and hiring post-horses, reached Mr. Whitchurch's at Sarum before dinner. In the evening the house was crowded extremely, and the voice of God was heard among them ; especially in the meeting of the society, to whom I delivered my own soul once for all. Tuesday 6, about nine I spoke full as plainly at Winchester, 1 think, to the largest congregation I have seen there, and it seemed, the most serious^ on that awful sub ject, Mark ix. 44. The audience at Portsmouth Common, in the eyening, were of another kind ; to whom therefore I spake in quite another manner, from Eph. iii. 14, i&c. Wednesday 7, about one 1 preached to another very serious congregation in the town, whom therefore I exhorted, to leave the first principles, and go on to perfec tion. Thursday 8, I set out early, and iri the afternoon we were brought to London. I am now as well, by the good Providence of God, as I am likely to be while I live : my sight is so decayed, that I cannot well read by candlelight, but 1 can write as well as ever : and my strength is much lessened, so that I cannot easily preach above twice a day : but I bless God, my memory is not much decayed/and my under standing is as clear as it has been these fifty years. Sunday 11, 1 preached at West-street, morning and afternoon, and then buried the remains of Dorothy Hundlebee, who, after an exemplary life, went to God in the full triumph of faith. Tuesday 1 3, I preached partly npon the subject at the New Chapel, and strongly exhorted the congregation to be followers of her as she was of Christ. In the evening I went in the mail-coach to Barton-Mills, and thence in a chaise to Lynn. Wednesday 14, The heavy rain prevented tender people from attending in the evening. Sunday 25, In the morning 1 preached at West-street, on Matt. xxii. 11, "He saw a man not havmg on a wedding garment," and showed, 1, that this has no manner of re spect, either to the Lord's Supper, or righteousness of Christ, but NOV. 1789.] KEV. JOHN WESLEY S JOURNAL. 283 that it means neither more nor less than holiness. At three I preached to a crowded audience at Allhallows church on Matt. vi. 8. At both places I believe God strongly applied his word to many hearts, Monday 26, I set out early, dined at Wallingford, (just -fifty miles from the New Chapel) and preached in the, evening to far more people than the preaching-house could contain. It was a day of Gods power, and I belie've most of the stout-hearted trembled at his word. Tuesday 27, I went on to Whitney : here I found a lively people, many of whom were hungering- and thursting after righteousness. Of what use to a whole community may one person be, Cven a woman that is full of faith and love ! The Lord strengthen thy heart, and fully prepare thee for every good word and work. Thursday 29, I returned to Oxford, and as notice had been given, though without my knowledge, of my preaching at noon, I did so, on There is one God, to a very serious congregation^ but in the evening such a multitude of people pressed in, that they hindered one another from hearing. I know not when we have had so noisy a rongrega- tion, so that by their eagerness to hear, they defeated their own purpose. Friday 30, In my way to Wycombe, I spent an hour at Mr. Smith's in Cudsdem; He has ten children, from eighteen to a year or two old, but all under government ; so that I met the very picture of my father's family. What a wretched steward was he, who in fluenced Lord H — — to put away such a tenant ! In the evening the house at High- Wycombe, though full, was still as night. Satur day 31, we came safe and well to London. Sunday, November 1, I preached on Rev. vii. 1, and we rejoiced with solemn joy. Monday 2, Miss H. met me at Hatfield, and took me onto Hinxworth. I never saw that preaching-house so full as it was this evening : and the people now begin not only to understand, but to relish what they bear. Tuesday 3, we went over to Wrest- lingworth, where likewise the church was fuller than ever before. I spoke exceeding closely the next evening, at Hinxworth, which the people are now able to bear : and at length that excellent woman that has so tenderly cared for them, sees some fruit of her labour. Monday 9, I returned to London, and the four following days I employed in visiting the classes. Sunday 15, we had ^as Usual) a large congregation, and a solemn opportunity at Spitalfields, and another at Shoreditch church, where I preached a charity sermon. At five I preached at the New Chapel and met the society : but it was too much for me. Monday 16, After an intermission of many weeks, through the dryness of my mouth, I resolved to try if I could not preach at five in the morning, and did so with not much difficulty : and I now hope to hold on a little longer, Wednesday 18, I found much life in the society at Brentford : so little cause have we to despair of any people, though for the present, ever so dead ! Thursday 1 9, I 2a-i p.ev. john wesley's journal. [dec. 178^, preached to a large congregation at Lambeth. On Friday and Saturday I answered my letters. Sunday 22, We had large congregations and a comfortable oppor tunity both morning and evening at West-street -chapel. Monday 23, 1 set out, for Northamptonshire, and in the evening preached at Whittlebury . but the house would ill contain the congregation, whieh were all serious as d^ath. So they were the next evening. Wed nesday 25, the dissenting minister at Towcester, offering me the use of his meeting-house, it was well filled, and I believe our Lord was in the mi 1st. Theme we went on to Northa npton, where I spent two evenings with very great satisfaction : although the great man who was so affected at Bath last year, was (as I expected he would) ashamed to see me. Friday 27, we had a pleasant journey to London. Sunday 29, I preached at the New Chapel in the morning, on Love is the fulfilling of the law : and in the evening on Owe no man any thing, but to love one another, and each time God was eminently present. Monday 30, I went to Deptford, and found the society in peace, but nearly at one stay. I endeavoured to stir up both them and the congregation in the evening, to go on to perfection. Tues day, December 1, I called on Mr. Domford, and found he kept his bed, being ill of a stubborn ague : but it came no more. At noon I preached in the new preaching house at Mitcham, and examined the little earnest society, almost all rejoicing in the love of God. I then retired to the loveh family at Balam. Here I had leisure on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, to consider thoroughly the account of the Pelew Islands, It is ingenious, but I esteem it a dangerous book, which 1 cannot believe, if I believe the Bible : for the direct tendency of it is to show, that the Bible is quite needless : since,, if men may be as virtuous without revelation as with it, then it is quite superfluous : then the fable of Jesus Christ, and that of Mahomet, are equally valuable. I do not say, that Mr Keate, much less Captain Wilson, designed to incul cate this consequence : but it necessarily follows, if you believe the premises. I cannot believe there is such a heathen on earth as Abba. Thule ; much less such a heathen nation as is here painted. But what do you think of Prince Lee Boo ? I think he was a good natured, sensible, young man, who came to England with Captain Wilson, and bad learned his lesson well, but was just as much a prince as Tom Chacti was a king. Monday 7, I went to Chatham, and preached as usual, to far more than the house would contain : and it is no wonder, considering that the spirit and behaviour of the people, confirm the doctrine they hear. Tuesday 8, we took a walk in the dock-yard. In the eve ning I preached in the elegant house at Brompton: but it is already far too small. The people flock in on every side, to hear peaceably the gospel. Thursday 1 0, 1 returned to London, and preached at the New Chapel. Sunday 13, Feeling much concern for poor backsliders, I endea voured to explain and apply the concluding words of the parable of BEC. 1789.] HE'V. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 285 the Prodigal Son, This thy .brother was dead, and is alive again : he was lost and is found: and in the evening those of Hosea viii. 11. Monday 14, 1 Went to Canterbury, and preached in the evening, 011 There is one God. The house would in no wise contain the con gregation, in which were several clergymen It pleased God to give me uncommon liberty of spirit, as also at Dover the next evening, where the new house, large as it is, was far too small, so that many could not get in. Wednesday 16, Being quite hoarse, I could neither sing nor speak : however, I determined to show myself, at least, where I had appointed to preach. Coming to Sandwich about noon, and finding the congregation was waiting, I trusted in God, and began to speak: the more I spoke, the more my voice was strengthened, so that, in a few minutes, I think all could hear. And riiany, I believe, took knowledge that what they heard was not the word of man but of God. I preached ai^ain at Margate in the evening, till my voice was nearly as clear as before I begun. The Spirit of God was with us of a truth. Thursday 17, I returned to Canterbury, and spent half an hour with my old friend Mr. Perronet, the last of the six sons, and nearly worn out, and just tottering ovCr the grave. In the evening we had another numerous congregation, and all deeply serious. Friday 18, we returned to Loudon. Monday 21,1 went to Sevenoaks, where the work of God has been at a stand for many years. It was a rainy night, notwithstand ing which the chapel was crowded from end to end : the power of God seemed to rest in an uncommon degree upon the whole congre gation. I was still more surprised to see the house filled in a very dark, rainy morning, a sight which has not been for many years. Surely God is about to give this poor,' dead people, yet another gracious visitation. Friday 25, Christmas-day, we began the service in the New Cha pel at four o'clock as usual, where I preached again in the evening, after having officiated in West-street at the common hour. Satur day 26, we had a very uncommon congregation in tlw evening, with a very uncommon blessing: Sunday 27, I preached in St. Luke's, our parish church, in the afternoon, to a very numerous congrega tion, on The Spirit and the Bridejay, Come. So are the tables turned, that I have now more invitations to preach in churches than I can accept of. Monday 28, I retired to Peckham, and at leisure hours read part of a very pretty trifle, the Life of Mrs. Bellamy. Surely never did any since John Dryden study more, " To make vice pleasing, and damnation shine," than this lively and elegant writer. She has a fine imagination, a strong understanding, an easy style, improved by much reading ; a fine, benevolent temper, and every qualification that could consist 386, HEV. JOHN wesley's journal. [jan. 1790. with a total ignorance of God : but God was not in all her thoughts. Abundance of anecdotes she inserts, which may be true or false. One of them concerning Mr. Garrick, is curious: she says, "When he was taking ship for England, a, lady presented him with a parcel, which she desired him not to open till he was at sea. When he did, he found Wesley's hymns, which he immediately threw over-board." I cannot believe it. I think Mr. G. had more sense. He knew my brother well. And he knew him to be not only far superior in learning, but in poetry, to Mr. Thomson, and all his theatrical writers put together : none of them can equal him, either in strong nervous sense, or purity and elegance of language. The musical compositions pf his sons are not more excellent than the poetical ones of their father. In the evening I preached to a crowded congregation, some of whom seemed a good deal affected. Thursday 31, 1 preached at the New Chapel, but, to avoid the cramp, went to bed at ten o'clock. I was well served. I know not that I ever before felt so much of it in one night. Friday, January 1, J 790, I am now an old man, decayed from head to foot. My eyes are dim : my right hand shakes much : my mouth is hot and dry every morning. I have a lingering fever almost every day. My motion is weak and slow : however, blessed be God, I do not slack my labour. I can preach and write still. Sat. 2, 1 preached at Snowsfields, to the largest congregation I have seen there for a year past, on / am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. Sunday 3, I suppose nearly two thousand met at the New Chapel, to renew their covenant with God. A scriptural means of grace, which is now almost every where forgotten, except among the Methodists. Tuesday 5, 1 paid a visit to my old friend Mark Davis, and in the evening I preached to a small audience at Laytonstone. Wednes day 6, I preached to a larger and more awakened congregation at Stratford. Tuesday 12, 1 retired to Highbury-place to answer my letters. Sunday 17, I buried Mrs Dornford, (a good woman,) and preached her funeral sermon. In the afternoon I preached in Great St. Helen's to a large congregation. It is, I believe, fifty years since I preached there before. What has God wrought since that time ! Thursday 21, 1 paid a visit to an eminent sister, Of whom every one despaired. She resolved to set out once more. May God up hold her with his right hand. Sunday 24, we had a love-feast for all the. society, at "which many spoke their experience with much simplicity. Monday 25, 1 went to Dorking, and laboured to awaken a harmless, honest, drowsy people, who, for many years, have seem ed to stand stock still, neither increasing nor decreasing. Friday 29, We had our general quarterly-meeting, whereby it ap peared, that the society received and expended about 3,000/. a year : but our expense, still exceeded our income. Saturday 30, I began meeting the classes, which took up this day and all the next week. KEB. 1790.] KEV. JOHN WESLEY S JOURNAL. 2'i~i Monday, February 1, 1 preached the funeral sermon of that saint of God, Robert Windsor, many years a burning and a shining light. He was. born a few months after me ; was a prudent, serious, dili gent man, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and with out hypocrisy. He seemed on the brink of death some months ago ; but was suddenly raised up again, praised God without ceasmg a few days, and then laid down, and — died. Wednesday 10, We found much of the presence of God in the chapel at Brentford, where the congregation was exceedingly large. So it was the next evening at Lambeth, though perhaps not so much alive. Saturday 13, the meeting of the penitents in the evening was exceedingly solemn ; as, indeed, it generally is. Sunday 14, I preached a sermon to the children at West-street chapel. They flocked together from every quarter : and truly God was in the midst of them, applying thosewords, Come, ye little children, hearken unto me, and I will teach you the fearof the Lord. Tuesday 16, 1 retired to Balam for a few days, in order to finish my sermons, and put all my 'little things in order. Thursday 18, I preached once more at poor Wandsworth. The house was more crowded than it has been for several years : and I could not but hope that God will once more build up the waste places. Friday 19, I preached to a large audience at Chelsea, and examined the little society, who donotdecrease, but rather grow in grace, and strength en each other's hands. Sunday 21, I preached to the children at the New Chapel, and believe, not in vain. Monday 22, we had a comfortable opportunity at West-street, and another on Tuesday evening at the New Chapel, where we had also a solemn meeting of the leaders. I submitted to importunity^ and once more sat for my picture : I could scarcely be lieve myself ! The picture of one in his eighty-seventh year ! Wednesday 24, I preached once more at Wapping to a crowded audience, and the next evening at the New Chapel thoroughly filled. Friday 26, I preached at Rotherhithe, where also there is lately a remarkable revival of the work of God. Saturday 27, I dined at Mr. Baker's, one of the sheriffs of London, a plain man, who -still lives in an inn-yard ! In the evening I had such a congregation at Snowfields, as has not been" seen there before for many years. Afterwards I met the penitents for the last time : they quite filled the room, and God was in the midst of them. Sunday 28, We have not had such a congregation at the New Chapel since the renewal of the covenant, nor such a blessing : the hearts of the people were like melting wax. Most of them were in tears: and I trust they will not soon forget the exhortation which was then given them. In the afternoon I preached at West-street chapel, on Eph. v. 1,2. The chapel would not nearly contain the congregation : all that could squeeze in seemed much affected. And it was with difficulty I broke through and took chaise for Brentford, where I came before six o'clock. The congregation here also was vol. 4 — M m "38 KEV. JOHN WESLEYS JOURNAL. [MARCH, 1790. by far the largest I ever saw here : so that it seems our labour, even here, will not be in vain. Monday, March 1, I left Brentford early in the morning, and in the evening preached at Newbury. The congregation was large, and most of them atteritive, but a few were wild as colts untamed. We had none such at Bath the following evening, but all were serious as death. Indeed the work of God seems to flourish here, deepen ing as well as widening. Wednesday 3, I took a view of the new buildings. There are at present none like them in England :' they; have not only added a second crescent, with two beautiful rows of houses near Ludstown, but a whole town on the other side of the city, which is swiftly increasing every day. And must all these fine buildings be burnt up ! Thursday 4, I went on to Bristol, where I found a people ready- prepared for the Lord. The preachers are in earnest, the fruit of which plainly appears in the congregations. Friday 5, hearing Mr. W — , of Bolton, was dying, I went over and spent an hour with him. His spirit was much comforted, and in a few days he was nearly as well as ever. Saturday 6, I preached in the evening at Temple church: Mr. Easterbrook has lately been very ill: but God has again lifted up his head to be a father to the poor a little longer. Sunday 7, 1 preached at the room morning and evening, and about (wo in the afternoon at Kingswood. Just as I concluded my ser mon in the room, a lady came in her carriage in all haste, and find ing the sermon was over, earnestly desired to stay at the society. Afterwards she importuned me much to call on her at the hot wells, where her husband, Governor Johnstone, died two years ago. On Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, she came to the preaching, and seemed to be much affected'. On Friday evening I was at Kingswood, and preached to such a congregation as I have not seen there, on a week day, for forty years, unless it was at a watch-night. Saturday 13, 1 spent two hours with her at Granby-house, and answered all her questions. She'appeared quite willing to know the truth, and to be altogether a Christian ; and vehemently desired, if our lives were prolonged, that I would visit her in London : but, if we should live, would she then be will ing to see me ? If she is, it would be a miracle indeed. This week I visited the classes in Bristol. I wonder we do not increase in number, although many are convinced, many justified, and a few perfected in love : I can impute the want of increase to nothing but want of self-denial: without this, indeed, whatever other helps they have, no believer can go forward. Sunday 1 4, Was a comfortable day. In the morning I met the Strangers' Society, instituted wholly forthe relief, not of our society, but for poor, sick, friendless strangers. I do not know that I ever heard or read of such an institution till within a few years ago: so this also is one of the fruits of Methodism. MARCH, 1790.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 289 Monday 15, I set out early, and dined at Stroud : hut in the eve ning we knew not what to do. The preaching-house Was far too small to contain the congregation ; so that several hundreds (it was supposed) were obliged to go' away : but the power of God remain ed wjth us. And great was our rejoicing in him. Tuesday 16, At noon I preached at Pajnswick to as many as the house would contain ; in the evening at Gloucester we had a large multitude, but many of them would neither hear nor let others hear. Indeed they that sat in the galleries could hear well ; but very few of them that were below. Wednesday 17, In the way to Tewksbury, at the earnest desire of Francis Porter, I called on him and his five daughters, all grown up, who are lately joined to that society. All of whom are now in great earnest, and bid fair to adorn the gospel of God our Saviour. I preached at Tewksbury about twelve ; but here also the house would not contain the congregation. We went on to Worcester in the afternoon, and found mUch comfort among a well-established people. They have no jars now, but all hold the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Thursday 18, We went onto Stourport, which is now full twice as large as it was two years ago. The first chapol was built about three years ago, by the joint contributions of Arminians and Cal vinists, agreeing that they should preach by turns : but, in a short time, the poor Arminians were locked out. On this, one. or two gentlemen built another, far larger and more commodious : but it was not large enough to contain them in the evening, to whom I ex plained that solemn passage in the Revelation, / saiv the dead, small and great, stand before God. They seemed to be all serious and at tentive, as long as I was speaking : but the moment I ceased, four score or one hundred began talking all at once. I do not remem ber ever to have been present at such a scene before : this must be amended; otherwise, if I should live, I will see Stourport no more. Friday 19, About eleven, coming to Quinton, I found a congrega tion waiting for me : so, that I might not disappoint them, I preached immediately on We love him, because he first loved us : and then went on to Birmingham, which I think is thrice as large as when I saw it fifty years ago. The congregation in the evening was well squeezed together, and most of them got in. The behaviour of the rich and poor is such, as does honour to their profession, so decent, so serious, so devout, from the beginning to the end ! It was the same the next evening. Sunday 21, the prayers began at the new house about half an hour after ten. It is a little larger than tbe new house at Brompton, and admirably well constructed : but several hundreds, I suppose, could not get in : I think all who did, found that God was there. The great house, likewise, in the evening, was utterly insufficient to con tain the congregation : but God is able to supply this want also : and his time is best. -91* I'.l.V. JOHN WESLEY'f JOURNAL. [MARCH, 1790. Monday 22, I went on to our old friends at Wednesbury, where the work of God greatly revives. Business has exceedingly de creased, and most of them have left the town. So much the more have the poor grown in grace,. and laid up treasure in heaven : but we were at a great loss in the evening. I could not preach abroad after sun-set, and the house would not nearly contain the people : however, as many as possibly could, squeezed in : and their labour was not in vain. Tuesday 23, About one 1 preached in the new house at Dudley, one of the neatest in England. It was a profitable season, where two persons, they informed me, found peace with God. We had a pleasant ride to Wolverhampton. This evening the rain began and continued about twenty hours, after more than four and twenty weeks of fair weather, such a winter as 1 never saw before. A melancholy event fell out the day before. The mistress of the house adjoining, boiling some varnish, it boiled over, and took fire, which seized on her, and burnt her so, that her life is despaired of. The rain a little lessened our congregation, so that the house con tained, us tolerably well. And many, even of the genteel hearers, seemed almost persuaded not to halt between two opinions. Wednesday 24, We rode to Madeley, through a pleasant rain, which did not hinder the church from being thoroughly filled : and, I believe, all who had spiritual discernment perceived, that it was filled with the presence of God. Thursday 25, At nine I preached to a select congregation, on the deep things of God ; and in the evening, on He is able to save unto the uttermost, all them that come unto God through him. Friday 26, I finished my sermon on the Wedding .garment : perhaps the last that I shall write. My eyes are now waxed dim. My natural force is abated: however, while I can, I would fain do a little for God, before I drop into the dust. . In the evening I preached to a crowded audience at Salop, on Acquaint thyself now with him, and be at peace : but I was much ashamed for them. The moment I had done speaking, I suppose fifty of them were talking all at once. And no wonder, they had neither sense nor good manners ; for " they were gentlefolks .'" Saturday 27, I preached in the evening to a sensible and well- behaved congregation, at Newcastle-under-Lyme : (observe, that is the name of the river which runs above the town.) Sunday 2S, I preached soon after one, in Mr. Myat's yard, at Lane-End: the house would not have contained a quarter of the people. At Bur slem also I was obliged to preach abroad, such was the multitude of the people. • Surely the people of this place are highly favoured. Mercy embraces them on every side. Monday 29, At nine I preached in the New Chapel at Funstal, the most elegant I have seen since I left Bath. My text was, Let us go on unto perfection; and the people seemed to devour the word. In the evening I preached at Congleton. Tbe Minister, the Mayor, and all the heads of tho town were present: so, that I might not AI'P.IL, 1790.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 291 overshoot them, I preached on Psalm xc. 12 : and, I believe, God applied it to their hearts. Tuesday 30, I went on to Macclesfield, and preached to a crowded audience, both this and the following night. On Thursday morning, one of my horses died. I judged it best to leave the other, till I could procure another, and took post-chaises to Stock port.. A large congregation was ready at six in the evening. In the morning, on Good-Friday, we went on to Oldham. The new house would in nowise contain the congregation ; but 1 preached to as many as it would contain, on I Cor. vi. 19 ; and at Manchester in the evening. Saturday, April 3, I preached on Heb. iv.T4. Easter-Day, 1 think we had about one thousand six hundred com municants. I preached, both morning and evening, without wea riness, and in the evening lay down' in peace. Monday 5, Galling at Altringham, 1 was desired to speak a few words to the people in the New Chapel : but almost as soon as I got thither, the house was filled, and soon after more than filled ; so I preached on 1 Peter i. 3, and many praised God with joyful lips. About twelve I preached in the chapel at Northwich, to a large and very lively congregation : and in the evening met once more with our old affectionate friends at Chester I have never, seen this chapel more crowded than to-night ; but still it could not nearly contain the congregation Both this and the following evening I was greatly assisted to declare the power of Christ's resurrection, and to exhort all that were risen with him, to set their affections on the things above. Here I met with one of the most extraordinary phenomena that I ever saw or heard of. Mr. Sellers has in his yard a large Newfound land dog, and an old raven : these have fallen deeply in love with each other, and never desire to be apart. The bird has learned the bark of the dog, so that few can distinguish them. She is incon solable when he goes out, and if he stays out a day or two, she will get up all the bones and scraps she can, and hoard them up for him, till he comes back ! Wednesday 7, About eleven I preached at Warrington. The chapel was well filled with serious hearers : but the great congrega tion was at Liverpool. If those without were added to those within, I believe it would have exceeded even that at Manchester. And surely the power of God was present with them also. Thursday. 8, Such another congregation we had on Thursday, among whom were many that had never been there before. They seemed utterly amazed when I explained, Now faith is the evidence of things unseen: I believe many were then convinced : but, alas ! how soon will that conviction die away ! Friday 9, We went to Wigan, for many years proverbially called Wicked Wigan : but it is not now what it was. .The inhabitants in general have taken a softer mould. The house in the evening was more than filled, and all that could get in seemed to be greatly affect ed, while I strongly applied our Lord's words, / will, be thou clean ! ~92 rev. john wesley's journal. [june,1790. Saturday 10, I crossed over to Northwich, and in the evening preached in the lovely house at Bolton, to one of the loveliest congregations in England, who, by patient continuance in well doing, have turned scorn and hatred into general esteem and good- will. [Part of the manuscript having been lost; causes a chasm here.] Monday, May 23, We set out at four, and reached Forglen about noon : the face of the country is much changed for the better since I was here before. Agriculture increases on every side : so do manufactories, industry-, and cleanliness. But I foUnd poor lady B — , (one Of the most amiable women in the kingdom) exceedingly ill, and 1 doubt whether she will be much better till she remove to her own country. I spent a very agreeable afternoon with the lovely family, and preached to a serious congre gation in the evening. Tuesday 24, we, returned to Aberdeen, and I took a solemn farewell of a crowded audience. If 1 should be permitted to see them again, well: if Hot, I have delivered my own soul. Wednesday 25, Taking the midland road, we spent an hour at Lawrence-Kirk, which, from an inconsiderable village, is, by the care and power of Lord Gardiston, soon sprung up into a pleasant, neat, and flourishing town. His lordship has also erected a little library here, adjoining to a handsome and well- furnished inn. Tbe country from hence to Brechin is as pleasant as a garden : happy would Scotland be if it had many such gentlemen and- noblemen ! In the evening I began preaching at Brechin in the freemen's lodge : but I was so faint and ill that I was obliged to shorten my discourse. Thursday 26, we went on through Forfar (now a handsome and almost a new towri) and Cupar, to Alucterander ; here we expected poor accommodations, but were agreeably dis appointed. Food, beds, and every thing else, were as neat and clean as at Aberdeen or Edinburgh. Friday 27, we travelled through a delightful country, by Stirling and Kilsythe to Glasgow. The congregation was miserably small ; verifying what I had often heard before, " That the Scots dearly love the word of the Lord — on the Lord's day. " Monday' 31, We set out at two, arid came to Moffat soon after three in the afternoon : talcing fresh horses, we reached Dumfries between six and seven, arid found the congregation waiting : so, after a few minutes, I preached on Mark iii. 35, "Whosoever doth the will of God, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother." Tuesday, June 1, Mr. Mather had a good congregation at five. .In the day I conversed with many of the people, a candid, humane, well-behaved people, unlike mosMhat I have found in Scotland. In the evening the house was filled, and truly God preached to their hearts. Surely God will have a considerable people here. Wednesday 3, We set out early, and reached Carlisle about noon : the work a little increases here. A small handful of people stand firm, and those, that opposed are broken to pieces. Our hou«e .IUNE, 1790.] REV. JOHN wesley's JOUBNAL. 293 would not nearly contain the Congregation, and the word of God was with, power. Thursday 4, We rode to Hexham, through one of the pleasantest countries that I have lately seen. The road lay (from Haisle) on the side of a fruitful mountain, shaded with trees, and sloping down to a clear river, which ran between ours and another fruitful mountain, well wooded and improved. At Hexham they have lately built a convenient preaching-house : but it is too small already. Here is a lovely people, much alive to God, and consequently increasing daily. Friday 5, we reached Newcastle : in this; and Kingswood-house, were I to do my own will, I should choose to spend the short remainder of my days : but it cannot be ; this is not my rest ! This and the next evening we had a numerous congrega tion : and the people seemed much alive. Sunday 7, I was invited to preach in'Letnsley church, on the side of Gateshead-Fell ; but some hours after the minister changed his mind.: so I preached in our own preaching-house, which contained the greater part of the congregation tolerably well ; among whom were Sir Henry Lyddal and his lady, with a great number of his servants. The chapel was hot as a stove ; but neither high nor low seemed to regard it ; for God was there ! The Orphan-House was equally crowded in the evening ; but the rain would not suffer me to preach abroad. Monday 8, I transcribed the stations of the preachers. Tuesday 9, I wrote a form for settling the preaching-houses, without any su perfluous words, which shall be used for the time to come verbatim, for all the houses to which I contribute any thing. I will no more encourage that villanous tautology of lawyers, which is the scan dal of our nation. In the evening I preached to the children of our Sunday-School ; six or seven hundred of whom were present. N. B. None of our masters or mistresses teach for pay; they seek a reward that man cannot give. Wednesday 1 0, Having despatched all the business I had to do here, in the evening 1 took a solemn leave of this lovely people, perhaps never to see them more in this life, and set out early On Thursday morning. About noon I preached at Wolsingham in a house thoroughly filled, on Isaiah xxxv. 8 ; and in the evening in Weardale, which hardly contained the congregation The same spirit was still in the congregation that has been for many years. And many felt, the Lord's hand is not shortened that it cannot save, nOr his ear heavy that it cannot hear. Friday 11, About seven I preached at Stanhope ; but no house would contain the congregation. So I stood in a broad place near the church, and enforced, If any man thirst, let him come unto me find drink. In going through Wolsingham we called at Mr. W.'s, who was in low circumstances, till a few years ago, when many thousands were heaped upon him unawares : and yet he seems to walk unhurt in fire ! What is too hard for God ? Hence we went on to Durham. Here likewise I was obliged to 294 rev. john wesley's journal. [june, 1790. preach in the open air, to a multitude of people, all of whom were serious and attentive. Saturday 12, we went through*. a lovely country to Sunderland, where 1 preached in the evening to a nu merous congregation. Sunday 13, in the morning I preached a charity sermon in Monk-Wearmouth church, for the Sunday- School, which has already cleared the streets, of all the -children that used to play there on a Sunday, from morning to evening. I preach^ cd at five nearthe Pens to several thousands of people. Here, it is plain, our labour has not been in vain. Monday 14, in the evenirig I preached to as many as the town- hall would contain at Hartlepool. Tuesday 15, 1 received a farther account of Mrs. B., from tWo that had lived with her a year and a quarter*: and was thoroughly convinced, that she is a woman of strong sense, and lively imagination ; but that she is given up to a strong delusion, (whether natural or diabolical,' I know not) to be lieve a lie. One proof may suffice. Some time since, she told the community, as from God, that the day of judgment would begin that evening. But how could she come off, when the event did not answer ? Easily enough. "Moses," said she, " could not see the face of God till he had fasted forty days and forty nights : we must all do the same." So, for three weeks they took no sustenance, but three. gills of water per day : arid three weeks more they took each three,gills of water-gruel per day. What a mercy that half of them did not die in making the experiment ! ' About noon I preached abroad to a large congregation, and in the afternoon went on to Stockton. The congregation was, at least, double to that at Hartlepool, all of whom seemed to feel that God was there. Wednesday 16., I preached in the main street at YariHj to. a dull, attentive people. Thursday 17, about noon I preached at Potto, to a deeply serious congregation, and to another such in the evening at Hutton-Rudby. Twenty years this society was a pattern to all the country for seriousness and deep devotion. I thirik seventeen of them were perfected in love : but only three of them remain, and most of the rest are either removed or grown cold and dead. Friday 18, I preached at Stokesley fn the morning, and then went on to Whitby. It was very providential, that part of the adjoin ing mountain fell down, and demolished our old preaching-house, with many houses besides, by which means we have one of the most beau tiful chapels in Great-Britain, finely situated on the steep Side of the mountain. At six it was pretty well filled, with such a congregation of plain, earnest people, as is not often seen I conversed with many of them the next day, Who were much alive to God. Sunday 30, the house contained us at seven tolerably well. The church like wise was well filled : but in the evening we were much straitened for room, but as many as could hear, stood on the pavement without. In all England I have not yet seen a more affectionate people than those at Whitby. Monday 21, Beine; importuned by our friends at Malton to call /UNE, 1790. j KEV. JOHN wesley's JOLRNAL. 295 there, (it being but about thirty miles out of the way,) I set out early to prevent the heat of the day. Calling at Pickering, some of the society soon found me out, with whom I went to the preaching-house, which was full enough in a few minutes time : so was the house at Malton in the evening, where I found the society more loving and united together than they had been for many years. Tuesday 22, I crossed over to Scarborough. The congregation in the evening was unusually small, being not yet recovered from the blessed fruits of the election. This was the hottest day we have had this year ; and about one in the afternoon, the thunder, which had long laid at a distance,, came near, with thick flashes of lightning and impetuous rain. The- thunder continued in one roll, for an hour and a quarter. I never heard the like before since my return from America. Thursday 24, the Dissenting Minister offer ing me the use of his chapel in Bridlington, twice as large as our own, (the wind being too high for me to stand abroad) I willingly accepted his offer. Friday 25, about noon t preached at Beverley, to a serious well-behaved congregation ; and^ in the evening to one equally serious, and far more numerous, at Hull. •Saturday 26, Was a day of satisfaction. I preached at seven in the morning, and at six in the evening, to as many as our house could contain, the ground" being too wet for the congregation to stand abroad. [It may not be improper here to inform the reader, that about this time some of the preachers and societies were harassed by justices of the peace, under a pretence entirely new. The Method ists were told, " You profess yourselves members of the Church of England ; therefore your licenses are good for nothing, nor can you, as members of the church, receive any benefit from the Act of Tole ration." In vain did those who applied for licenses plead that they only desired to defend themselves against the violence of ungodly and lawless men, and to avoid the penalties of an act which perhaps was made to prevent seditious meetings, but, in reality, forbids religious assemblies of every description, except in the churches of the estab lishment. The answer was short : "You shall have no licenses unless you declare yourselves Dissenters." Some, who considered that the holding meetings for prayer or preaching, without the authority of the Diocesan, was, in fact, a kind of dissent, declared their willing ness (though others refused this concession,) to be called Dissent ers in the certificate. But ueither did this avail them. They were told, " You must not only profess yourselves Dissenters : you must declare, that you scruple to attend the service or sacraments of the Church, or, we can grant you no -relief : for the act in question was made only for those who have these scruples." In various places both preachers and people were thus treated. Some appealed to the Quaker-sessions ; but no relief could be obtained : they had no license, and therefore the law, as thus interpreted, showed them no mercy. Mr. Wesley saw this evil with a degree of pain which he had sel dom experienced. He perceived whereto it tended, and that if per- vol. 4. — N n 296 iiev. john wesley's journal. [june, 1790. sisted in, it would oblige him to give up the work in which he had been engaged, and which he believed to be the work of God; or to separate from the Established Church. He loved and reverenced the King, and all who were in authority under him : but he could not behold this masterpiece of wisdom from beneath without detestation. Esteeming it his duty to expostulate with those who were most zeal ous in this work, he this day wrote the following letter to a prelate, in whose diocess this kind of persecution most abounded. " My Lord, " It may seem strange, that one who is. not acquainted with your lordship, should trouble you with a letter : but I am constrained to do it; I believe it is my duty both to God und your lordship. And I must speak plainly; having nothing to hope or fear in this world, which I am on the point of leaving. "The Methodists, in general, my lord, are members of the Church of England. They hold all her doctrines, attend her service, and partake of her sacraments. They do not willingly do harm to any one, but do what good they can to all. To encourage each other herein, they frequently spend an hour together in prayer and mutual exhortation. Permit me then to ask, Cui bono ? For what reasonable end would your lordship drive these people Out of the Church ? Are they not as quiet, as inoffensive, nay, as pious, as any of their neighbours? Except, perhaps, here and there, a hair-brained man, who knows not what he is about. Do you ask, ' Who drives them out of the church V Your lordship does : and that in the most cruel manner. They desire a license to woiship God after their own conscience: your lordship refuses it: and then punishes them for not having a license ! So your lordship leayes them only this alterna tive : f Leave the Church, or starve.' And is it a Christian, yea, a Protestant Bishop, that so persecutes his own flock ? I say, perse cutes : for it is persecution to all intents and purposes. You do not burn them indeed, but you starve them : and how small is the differ ence ! And your lordship does this under colour of a vile, execrable law, not a whit better than that, de Hceretico comburendo .'* So persecution, which is banished out of France, is again countenanced in England ! " O my lord, for God's sake, for Christ's sake, for pity's sake, suffer the poor people to enjoy their religious as well as civil liberty! I am on the brink of eternity ! Perhaps so is your lordship too ' How soon may you also be called to give an account of your stew ardship, to the great Shepherd and Bishop of our souls ! May he enable both you and me to do it with joy ! So prays " My 'lord, ' " Your lordship's dutiful son and servant „ „ T " JOHN WESLEY " Hull, June 26, 1790." w^x. Concerning the burning of Heretics. june, 1790.] nEV. john wesley's journal. 2R7 About the same time he stated the case thus to a friend, through whose influence with those in power, he hoped redress might be obtained. " Last month a few poor people met together in Lincoln shire, to pray, and to praise God, in a friend's house : there was no preaching at all. Two neighbouring justices fined the man of the house twenty pounds. I suppose he was not worth twenty shillings. Upon this, his household goods were distrained, and sold to pay the fine. He applied to the Quaker-sessions : but all the justices averred, •The Methodists could -have no relief from the Act of Toleration, because they went to church ; and that, so long as they did so, the Conventicle Act should be executed upon them. " Last Sunday, when one of our preachers was beginning to speak to a quiet congregation, a neighbouring justice sent a constable to seize him, though he was licensed : and would not release him till he had paid twenty pounds, telling him his license was good for nothing, because he was a churchman ! "Now, Sir, what can the Methodists do ? They are liable to be ruined by the Conventicle Act, and they have no relief from the Act of Toleration ! If this is not oppression, what is ? Where then is English liberty? The liberty of Christians, yea, of every rational creature ? who, as such, has a right to worship God according to his own conscience. But, waving the question of right and wrong, what prudence is there in oppressing such a body of loyal subjects ? If these good magistrates could drive them, not only out of Somer setshire, but out of England, who would be gainers thereby ? Not his- Majesty, whom we honour and love : not his ministers, whom' we love and serve for his sake. Do they wish to throw away so many thousands of friends, who are now bound to them by stronger ties than that of interest ? If you will speak a word to Mr. Pitt on that head, you will oblige me, " &c. The paper from which the above is taken is only a copy : and there is some doubt, whether Somersetshire be not inserted for Lincolrishire, before mentioned in the same paper. However this may be, Mr. Wesley wrote to the Bishop of the following letter a few months before the above was written. " My Lord, "lama dying man, having already one foot in the grave. Humanly speaking, I cannot long creep upon the earth, being now nearer ninety than eighty years of age. But I cannot die in peace, before I have discharged this office of Christian love to your lord ship. I write without ceremony, as neither hoping nor fearing any thing from your lordship, or from any man living. And I ask, in the name and in the presence of Him to whom both you and I are shortly to give an account, Why do you trouble those that are quiet in the land ? those that fear God" and work righteousness ? Does your lordship know what the Methodists are ? That many thousands of them are zealous members of the Church of England ? and strongly attached, not only to his Majesty, but also to his present ministry ? Why should your lordship, setting religion Out of the 298 IlEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [jULY, 1790. question, throw away such a body of respectable friends ? Is it for their religious sentiments ? Alas, my lord, is this a time to persecute a man for conscience' sake ? I beseech you, my lord, do as you would be done to. You are a rrian of sense : you are a man of learning: nay, I verily believe (what, is of infinitely riiore value) you are a man of piety. Then think, and let think. I pray God to bless you with the choicest of his blessings. "I am, my lord," &c] Monday 28, This day I enter into my eighty-eighth year. For above eighty-six years I found none of the infirmities of old age, my eyes did not wax dim, neither was my natural strength abated : but last August I found almost a sudden change, my eyes were so dim that no glasses would help me: my. strength likewise now quite forsook me, and probably will not return in this world : but I feel no pain from head to foot, only, it seems, nature is exhausted, and humanly speaking, will sink more, and more, till " The weary springs of life stand still at last."* Tuesday 29, I crossed over through Epworth to Owston, ,and passed a comfortable day with many of the preachers. This, which was one of the last societies in the circuit, is now become first, in grace as well as number. The new preaching-house not being able to contain one half of the congregation, I preached abroad in the calm, mild evening, and I believe God applied his word to many hearts. Thursday, July I, I went to Lincoln. After dinner we took a walk in and round the Minster, which I really think is more elegant than that at York, in various parts of the structure, as well, as in its admirable situation. The new house was thoroughly filled in the evening, and with hearers uncommonly serious. There seems to be a remarkable difference between the people of Lincoln and those of York. They have not so much fire and vigour of spirit, but far more mildness and gentleness, by means of which, if they had the same outward helps, they would probably excel their neighbours. Some miles short of Lincoln, our post-boy stopped at an inn on the road, to give his horses a little water. < As soon as we went in, the inn-keeper burst into tears, as did his wife, wringing her hands and weeping bitterly. "What," he said, "are you come into my house? My father is John Lester of Epworth." I found * " This, at length, was literally the case ; the death of Mr. IVesley, like that of Charles, being one of those rare instances in which nature, drooping -under the load of years, sinks by a gentle decay. For several years preceding his death, this decay was; perhaps, more visible to others than to himself; particularly by a more frequent dispo sition to sleep during the day ; by a groVing defect in memory, a faculty he once possessed, in a high degree of perfection ; and by a general diminution of the vigour and agility he had so long enjoyed. His labours," however, suffered little interruption, and when the summons came, it found him, as lie always wished it should, in the 'wnifss, still occupied in- bis master's work1'' I)k. Whitehead. AUG. 1790.] REV. JOHN WESLEV'S JOURNAL. 299 both he and his wife had been members of our society. We spent some time in prayer together, and, I trust, not in vain. Friday 2, About eleven I preached at Newton : but the preaching- house would not contain half the congregation. No rain fell during the time of preaching, but it rained both before and after. I was struck with the preaching-house at Gainsborough : < one of the handsomest towns in Lincolnshire) so neat, so elegant, just taking up one side of a small neat square. I found uncommon liberty of speech, and received it as a token for good. Surely this poor society which has been so miserably depressed, will again lift up its head. Saturday 3, 1 reached Epworth, and after preaching in the evening, met the society, and reminded them of what they were some years ago, and what they are now ; scarcely retaining the shadow of their former zeal and activity in all the ways of God. Sunday 4, I went over to Misterton, where likewise the work "of God was exceedingly decayed. The house being far too small to contain the multitude of people, I stood under a spreading tree, and strongly exhorted them to strengthen the things that remained, which were ready to die. Thence I hastened back to Epworth, but I could not reach it till the church , service was begun. It was observed, Mr. Gibson read the prayers with unusual, solemnity. And, I believe, he was not displeased to see five times as many at church, and ten times as many at the Lord's table, as usual. As soon as the afternoon service ended, I began in the market-place to press that awful question, How shall we escape; if me neglect so great salvation? on such a congregation as was never seen at Epworth before. [Here again there is a chasm in the narrative, through a part of the manuscript having been lost.] Friday, Aug. 27, I returned to Bristol. In the evening, and at the watch-night, the house was well filled. Finding the account of Mrs. Scudamore's life and death (an excellent woman, though mistaken in this point) has revived in some the imagination of the expiatory nature of sufferings, and thence the absolute necessity of them in order to salvation, "I discussed the subject at large, and showed that both these notions had their rise in popery, and that neither the one nor the other of them had any foundation in Scripture. Sunday 29, Mr. Baddiley being gone to the North, arid Mr. Collins being engaged elsewhere, I had none to assist me in the service, and I could not read all the prayers myself: so 1 was obliged to shorten the service, which brought the prayers, sermon, and the Lord's-supper, within* the compass of three hours. I preached in the afternoon near King's-square ; and the hearts of the people bowed down before the Lord. Monday 30, About noon I preached at Castlecary. Since I was here God has taken to himself that amiable woman Mrs. Clarice, who, to a fine person, and a good understanding, joined a very uncommon degree of deep religion. This inclined me to apply earnestly, Eccl. ix. 10, and all the people seemed to feel it. After- 300 KEV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. [SEPT. 1790. wards I called on her deeply-afflicted husband, who spent some hours with us the next day, I hope he will no longer sorrow as one without hope ; but will trust to < meet her in a better place. In the evening. I preached in tho new house at Ditchet. It would not hold the congregation, but many could hear at the windows, which they seemed right willing to do. A flame appears to be kindled here already. God grant it may continue and increase ! Tuesday 31, William Kingston, the man bom without arms, came to see me of his own accord. Some time since he received a clear sense of the favour of God : but, after some monihs, he was per suaded by some of his old companions to join in a. favourite diversion, whereby he lost sight of God, and gave up all he had gained : but now God touched his heart again, and he is once more in earnest to save his soul. He is" of middling height and size, has a pleasing look and voice, and an easy, agreeable behaviour. At breakfast he shook off his shoes, which. are made on purpose, took the tea-cup< between his toes, and the toast with his other foot. He likewise writes a fair hand, and does most things with his feet which we do with our hands. About noon I preached to a lovely congregation at Shepton-Mallet, and in the evening at Pensford. The house was crowded with earnest hearers, and, I trust, the word did not fall to the ground. Wednesday, September 1, I returned to Bristol : and it being the first day of the fair, 1 spoke strongly from the words of Solomon, Buy the truth, and sell it not In the two following days I corrected and abridged the account of that, excellent woman', Mrs. Scuda- more : a burning and shining light, till the mystics persuaded her to put her light under a bushel ; so that, for above two years, she renounced all , conversation with even her pious friends ! How does this agree with Scripture ? "All my delight is in the saints that are on the earth, and with them that excel in virtue !" How far was the experience of Jane Cooper, or Elizabeth Harper, preferable to that of such a solitary ! Saturday 4, I went on to Bath, and preached in the evening to a serious but small congregation, for want of notice. Sunday 5, at ten we had a numerous congregation, and more communicants than ever I saw here before. This day I cut off that vile custom, I know not when or how it began, of preaching three times by the same preacher to the same congregation : enough to weary out both the body and mind of the speaker, as well as his hearers. Surely God is returning to this society ! They are now in earnest to make their calling and election sure. Monday 6, This evening the congregation was almost as large as it was the night before : and the power of God was mightily present : and so it was on Tuesday and Wednesday evening, at Bristol. Thursday 9, I read over the experience of Joseph Humphreys, the first lay preacher that assisted me in England, in the year 1738. From his own mouth I learn that he was perfected in love, and so continued for at least a twelve-month. Afterwards he turned Cal- vinist, joined Mr. Whitefield, and published an invective against my 3EPT. 1790.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 305 brother and me in the newspaper. In a while he renounced Mr. White- field, arid was ordained a Presbyterian minister : at last he received episcopal ordination. He then scoffed at inward religion, and when reminded of his own experience, replied, " That was one of the foolish things which I wrote in the time of my madness !" Friday 10, I preached to a large congregation at Chew-Stoke, nine miles from Bristol, on those words in. the second lesson, Come unto me, all ye that are weary and heavy laden : and in the evening at Mrs. Griffith's house.- Sunday 12, I intended to preach abroad ; but the weather would not permit. Monday 13, and the three following days, I met the classes of the society, which contains nine hundred and forty-four members. Thursday 16,1 was desired to see a monster, properly speaking. He was as large as the -largest lion in the tower, but covered with rough hair of a brown colour, has the head of a swine and feet like, a mole. It is plain to me, it was begotten between a bear and a wild boar. He lives on fruit arid bread, chiefly the latter. The keeper handles him as he pleases, putting his hand in his mouth, and taking hold of his tongue : but he has a horrible roar, between that of a lion and of a bulk At the same time I saw a pelican. Is it not strange that we have no tiue account or picture of this hird ! It is one of the most beautiful in nature, being indeed a large swan, almost twice as big as a tame one : snow white, a. id elegantly shaped : only its neck i6 three quarters of a yard long, and capable of being so distended as to. contain two gallons of liquid or solid: she builds her nest in some wood not far from a river, from which she daily brings a quantity of fish to her young : these s|ie carries in her neck, (tho onlypound which she has) and then divides them among her young : and hence is fabricated t.e idle taleof her feeding them with herblood. Friday 17, I went over to Thornbury, and preached at noon to a very large and deeply serious congregation. In the evening we had a solemn watch-night at Kings woods Saturday IS, I called upon Mr. Easterbrook; ill of a disorder which no physician under stands, and which, it seems. God alone can cure. He is a pattern to all Bristol, and indeed to all England, (having besides his other ineessant labours, which never were intermitted) preached in every house in his parish ! It was while he was preaching in his own church, that he was suddenly struck with a violent pain in his breast. This confounds all the physicians, and none. of their medi cines can alter it. Sunday 19, Mr Collins assisted me in the morning, so I had an easy day's work. Monday 20, and the next day, I read over the King of Sweden's Tract upon the balance of power in Europe. If it be really his, he is certainly one of the most sensible, as well as one of the bravest princes in Europe. And if his account be true, what a woman is the Czarina ! But still, God is over all ! Wednesday 22, I preached once more in Temple church, on All 30£ REV. JOHN wesley's jot/bnal. [oct. 179U. things are possible to him that believeth. Saturday 25, Mr. Hey, the Presbyterian Minister of Castle-green meeting,' came to desire me to let him haye the use of our preaching-house on . Sundays, at those houis when we did not use it ourselves, (near ten in the morning and two in the afternoon) while his house was re-building. To this I willingly consented, and he preached an excellent sermon there the next day at two. I preached at five in the evening to more than the house would well contain. Monday 27, I left Bristol ; about eleven I preached in the Devizes, and in the evening at Sarum. I do not know that ever I saw the house so crowded' before, with high and low, rich and poor : so that I hope we shall again see fruit here also. Wednesday 29, About noon I preached at Winton : the congre gation was larger than usual ; and, what was stranger still, seemed not. a little affected !¦ How Jong have we cast our bread upon the waters here ! And shall we find, it again after many days ? In the evenirig I preached to a crowded and deeply attentive congregation at Portsmouth-Common. Thursday 30, It being a lovely morning, we weht-ina wherry, through Cowe's harbour to Newport, one of the pleasantest, neat est, and most elegant towns in the king's dominions. Both the nights I preached here, the preaching-house would by no means contain the congregation. I was likewise well pleased with the poor, plain, artless society. Here, at least, we have not lost our labour. Friday, October 1, We purposed returning to Portsmouth (about twenty miles, it being a calm, sunshiny morning) in the wherry We came in ; but a friend offering us a kind of hoy, we willingly accept ed his offer. It was well he did; for, as soon as we were out of the harbour, the Wind rose, and the sea raged horribly. The wherry would soon have been swallowed up : the waves washed over us on both sides. Having no decks, we were well soaked from head to foot ; but, before noon, we got safe to Portsmouth. Saturday 2, Setting out as usual, at two, we came to Cobham, between ten and eleven, and found a party of our friends from Lon don ready to receive us. We walked an hour in the gardens ; but the inn-keeper informed us, " Strangers were not admitted unless on Tuesday and Friday." However, hearing Mr. Hopkins was at home, I sent in my name and desired that favour, which was imme diately granted. We spent an hour very agreeably in those lovely walks; but still the eye was not satisfied with seeing. The soul of an immortaljspirit can be satisfied with nothing but seeing God. In the afternoon we went on to London. Sunday 3, Was indeed a comfortable day. I preached at the New Chapel, morning and evening, with great enlargement of spi rit. At the love-feast which followed, great was our rejoicing; many declared what God had. done for their souls ; and many were filled with consolation. Having answered my letters, and finished my other little business 0CT. 1790. ] REV. JOHN WESLEY S JOURNAL. 303 for the present, on Tuesday the 5th I went to Rye. Though the warning was short, the congregation was exceedingly large, and be haved with remarkable seriousness While our people mixed with the Calvinists here, we were always perplexed, and gained no ground: but since they kept to themselves they have continually increased in grace as well as in number I was now informed, how signally God had overtaken that wretch who murdered Mr. Haddock some years since. Beins? lately overtaken by Captain Bray, in one of the King's cutters, he made a desperate resistance. And even when boarded, fought still, and drew, a pistol at Captain Bray, who then hewed him in pieces with his cutlass. Thursday 7, I went over to that poor skeleton of ancient Win- chelsea. It is beautifully situated on the top of a steep hill, and was regularly built in broad streets crossing each other, and encompass ing a very large square, in the midst of which was a large church, now in ruins. 1 stood under a large tree, on the side of it, and called to most of the inhabitants of the town, The kingdom of heaven is at hand : repent, and believe the gospel. It seemed, as if all that heard, were, for the present, almost persuaded to be Christians. Here an eminently pious woman, Mrs. Jones, at whose house I stopped, gave me a very strange account. Many years since she was much hurt in lying-in. hhe had various physicians, but still grew worse and worse, till perceiving herself to be no better, she left them off. She had a continual pain in her groin, with such a prolapsus uteri, as soon confined her to her bed : there she lay two months, helpless and hopeless ; till a thought came one day into her mind, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me whole. Be it according to thy will ! Immediately the pain and the disorder ceased : feeling herself well, she rose and dressed herself. Her husband coming in, aud seeing her in tears, asked, " Are those tears of serious joy ?" She said " Of joy ;" on which they wept together. From that hour she has felt no pain, but enjoyed perfect health. 1 think our Lord never wrought a plainer miracle, even in the days of his flesh. In the evening I preached once more at Rye; and the word did not fall to the ground. In the morning we left this loving, well- united people, and dined at Sevenoaks. After dinner we spent an hour in the Duke of Dorset's house. I could not but observe some change for the worse here. The silk covers are removed Irom se veral of tne pictures, particularly that of Count Agalino and his sons. And it is placed in a worse light, so that I could hardly dis cern the little boy, that, When he saw his father gnawing his own arm for anguish cried out, " Papa, if you are happy, do not eat your own arm, but mine." The preaching-house was filled in the eve ning with people, and with the presence of God. Sunday 10, We returned to London. Monday 11, I went on to Colchester, and still found matter of humiliation. The society was lessened and cold enough. Preaching again was discontinued, and the spirit of Methodism quite gone, both from the preachers and the people ; yet we had a wonderful congregation in the evening, rich Vol. 4.— 0 o 304 kev. john wesley's journal. [oct. 1790. and poor, cki-ry and laity. So we had likewise on Tuesday evening. So that I trust God will, at length, build up the waste places. Wednesday 13, We set out early, but found no horses at Cob- dock, so that, we were obliged to go round by Ipswich, and wait there half an hour. Nevertheless, we got to Norwich between two and three. In the way we read Capt. Carrel's travels, admirably well written, and giving, I believe, a just account of the interior p rts of North America. Here is no gay account of the Islands of Pelew or Lapita, but a plain relation of matter of fact. Surely, Eastern and Western savages are much alike. And some good might be found in the East as well as the West. But to see nature in per fection, either at Pelew or elsewhere, we need only look on the sa vages at Fort William Henry, butchering, in cold blood, so many hundreds of helpless, unresisting men, in the very spirit of the old murderer. In the evening I preached at Norwich : but the house would in nowise contain the congregation. How wonderfully is the tide turned ! I am become an honourable man at Norwich. God has, at length, made our enemies to be at peace with us, and scarcely any but Antinomians open their mouths against us. Thursday 14, I went to Yarmouth, and at length found a society in peace, and much united together. In the evening the congrega tion was too large to get into the preaching-house ; yet they were far less noisy than usual. After supper a little company went to prayer, and the power of God fell upon us ; especially when a young woman broke out into prayer, to the surprise and comfort of us all. Friday 15, 1 went to Lowestoffe. to a steady, loving, well-united so ciety The more strange it is, that they neither increase or decrease in number. Saturday 16, I preached at Loddon about one, and at six preach ed in Norwich. Sun 17, at seven I administered the Lords-Supper to about one hundred and fifty persons, nearly twice as many as we had last year ; I take knowledge, that the last year's preachers were in earnest. Afterwards we went to our own parish church, although there was no sermon there, nor at any of the thirty-six churches in the town, save the cathedral and St. I 'eter's I preached at two : when I had done, Mr. Home called upon me, who preached at the cathedral in the morning, an agreeable man, both in temper and per son ; and, I believe, much alive to God. At half an hour after five I preached again to as many as the house would contain ; and even those that could not get in, stayed more quiet and silent than ever I saw them before. Indeed, they all seemed to know that God was there. And I have no doubt but he will revive his work here also. Monday 18, No coach going out for Lynn to-day, I was obliged to take a post-chaise : but, at Deerham, no horses were to be had ; so we were obliged to take the same horses to Swaffham. A con gregation was ready here that filled the house, and seemed quite OCT. 1790.] REV. JOHN WESLEY'S JOURNAL. 305 willing to receive instruction : but here neither could we procure any post-horses ; so that we were obliged to take a single horse chaise. The wind, with misling rain, came full in our faces, and we had nothing to screen us from it. So that 1 was thoroughly chilled from head to foot, before I came to Lynn : but I soon for got this little inconvenience, for which the earnestness of the con gregation made me large amends. Tuesday 19, In the evening all the clergymen in the town, ex cept one who was lame, were present at the preaching. They are all prejudiced in favour of the Methodists, as indeed are most of the townsmen; who give a fair proof, by contributing so much to our Sunday-schools, so that there is nearly twenty pounds in hand. Wednesday 20, I had appointed to preach at Diss, a town near Scoleton ; but the difficulty was, where I could preach. The mi nister was willing I should preach in the church ; but feared offend ing the Bis.iop, who, going up to London, was within a few miles of the town. But a gentleman asking the Bishop whether he had any objection to it, he answered, " None at all." I think this church is one of the largest in this county. I suppose it has not been so filled these hundred years. This evening and the next I preached at Bury, to a deeply attentive congregation, many of whom know in whom they have believed. So that here we have not lost all our lab >ur ! Friday 22, we returned to London. Sunday 24, I explained to a numerous congregation in Spital- fiehls' church, The whole armour of God. St. Paul's, Shadwell, was still more crowded in the afternoon, while I enforced that important truth One thing is needful. And I hope many, even then, resolved to choose the better part, PARTICULARS DEATH OF MR. WESLEY. WE are now come to the end of this interesting Narrative : whether Mr. Wesley carried it on any further is not certain : but, if he did, no more of it has been discovered. It is' probable that, finding himself unable, through the decay of his sight, and the shaking of his hand, to write legibly, he had forborne to continue it. To these causes, it seems, rather than to any part ol the manu script being mislaid or lost, we are to impute some of the chasms which there are in this Number. And, if the reader finds any of the names of persons or places improperly spelled, he must attribute the errors to the same source, the whole of the copy being so ill written as to be scarcely legible We proceed now, according to our promise, to give some account of the last scene of the life of this extraordinary man. He had found, as he tells us in his Journal, page 298, an almost sudden change take place in the state of his body, in August, 1789, at which time not only his eyes became so dim, that no glasses would help him, but his strength likewise in a great measure forsook him; and that, as he believed, to return no more in this world. And, although he felt no pain, from head to foot, yet nature was so exhausted, that he had every reason to tiiink it would fail more and more, till it sunk into the coid embrace ;f death. Accordingly, January 1, following, he says, " I am now an old man, decayed from head to foot My eyes are dim : my right hand shakes much : my mouth is hot and dry every morning. I have a lingering fever almost every day. My motion is weak and dow " He observes, however, at the same time, " I do not slacken my labour ; I can preach and write still '' Thus he went on, not only t > October 24, following, as we have seen, when his Journal ends, but during the remaining part of the autumn and winter, till the middle of February, continually praying, say his biographers, "Lord let me not live to be useless." He preached, as usual, in ditferent places in London and its vieinity, generally meeting the society, after preaching in each place, and exhorting them to love as brethren, fear God, and honour the King, which he wished them to consider as his last advice. He then, usually, if pot invariably, conpluded, with giving out that verse, PARTICULARS OS1 MR. WESLEY'S DEATH. 307 " 0 that, without a ling'ring groan, I may the welcome word receive ; My body with my charge lay down, And cease at once to work and live." He proceeded in this way till the usual time of his leaving London approached, when, with a view to take bis accustomed journey, through Ireland or Scotland, he sent his chaise and horses before him to Bristol, and took places for himself and his friend in the Bath coach. But his mind, with all its vigour could no longer uphold his worn-out and sinking body. Its powers ceased, although, by slow and almost imperceptible degrees, to perform their sundry of fices, until, as he often expressed himself on similar occasions, " The weary 'wheels of life stood still at last." Thursday, February 17, 1791, he preached at Lambeth; but on his return, seemed much indisposed, and said, he had taken cold. The next day, however, he read and wrote as usual ; and in the eve ning, preached at Chelsea, from " The King's business requires haste," although with some difficulty, having a high degree of fever upon him Indeed he was obliged to stop once or twice, informing the people that his cold so affected his voice as to prevent his speak ing without those necessary pauses. , On Saturday he still perse vered in his usual employments, though, to those about him, his com plaints seemed evidently increasing. He dined at Islington, and at dinner desired a friend to read to him four chapters out of the book of Job, viz. from the fourth to the seventh inclusive. On Sunday he rose early, according to custom, but quite unfit for any of his usual Sabbath-day's exercises. At seven o'clock he was obliged to lie down, and slept between three and four hours. When he awoke, he said, "I have not had such a comfortable sleep this fortnight past." In the afternoon he lay down again and slept an hour or two. Afterwards two of his own discourses on our Lord's sermon on the mount, were read to him, and in phe evening he came down to supper. Monday the 2 1st, he seemed much better; and though his friends i tried to dissuade him from it, he would keep an engagement, made some time before, to dine at Twickenham In his way thither he called on Lady Mary Fitzgerald : the conversation was truly profit able and well became a last visit. On Tuesday he went on with his usual, work, preached in the evening at the chapel in the City- Road, and seemed much better than he had been for some days. On Wednesday he went to Leatherhead, and preached to a small company, on " Seek ye the Lord while he may be found ; call ye upon him while he is near." This proved to be his last sermon : here ended the public labours of this great minister of Jesus Christ. On Thursday he paid a visit to Mr. Wolff's lovely family at Balaam, where he was cheerful, and seemed nearly as well as usual, till Fri day, about breakfast time, when he grew very heavy. About eleven 30S PARTICULARS OF THE DEATH OF o'clock he returned home extremely ill. His friends were struck with the manner of his getting out of the carriage, and still more with his apparent weakness when he went up stairs and sat down in his chair. He now desired to be left alone, and not to be interrupt ed by any one for half an hour. When that time was expired, some mulled wine was brought him, of which he drank a little. In a few minutes he threw it up, and said, " I must lie down " His friends were now alarmed, and Dr. Whitehead was immediately sent for. On his entering the room, he said, in a cheerful voice, " Doctor, they are more afraid than hurt." Most of this day he lay in bed, had a quick pulse, wi'h a considerable degree of fever and stupor. And Saturday, the 26th, he continued in much the same state ; taking- very little, either of medicine or nourishment. Sunday morning he seemed much better, got up, and took a cup of tea. Sitting in his chair, he looked quite cheerful, and repeated the latter part of the verse, in his brother Charles's Scripture Hymns, on Forsake me not when my strength faileth, viz. " Till glad I lay this body down, Thy servant, Lord, attend ; And, 0 ! my life of mercy crown With a triumphant end." Soon after, in a most emphatical manner, he said, " Our friend La zarus sleepeth." Exerting himself to converse with some friends, he was soon fatigued arid obliged to lie down. After lying quiet some time, he looked up, ami said, " Speak to me; I cannot speak." On which one of the company said, " Shall we pray with you, Sir ?" He earnestly replied, " Yes." And, while they prayed, his whole soul seemed engaged with God for an answer, and his hearty Amen showed that he perfectly understood what was said About half an hour after, he said, " There is no need of more ; when at Bristol my words were, ' I the chief of sinners am, But Jesus died for me.' "* One said, " Is this the present language of your heart, and do you * At the Bristol Conference, in 1783, Mr. Wesley was taken very ill : neither he nor his friends thought he could recover. From the nature of his complaint he supposed a spasm would seize his stomach, and, probably, occasion sudden death. Under these views of his situation, he said to Mr. Bradford, " 1 have been reflecting on my past life : I have been wandering up and down, between fifty and sixty years, endeavouring, in my poor way, to do a little good to my fellow-creatures : and now it is probable, that there are but a few steps betwixt me and death ; and what have I to trust to for salva tion ? I can see nothing, which I have done or suffered, that will bear looking at. I have no other plea than this, ' I the chief of sinners am, But Jesus died for me.' " The sentiment here expressed, and his reference to it in his last sickness, plainly shows how steadily he had persevered in the same views of the gospel with which he set out to preach it. THE REV. JOHN WESLEY. 309 now feel as you did then?" He replied, "Yes." When the same person repeated, . " Bold I approach; the eternal throne, And claim the crown, thro' Christ, my own ;" and added, " 'Tis enough. He our precious Immanuel has pur chased, has promised all ;" he earnestly replied, " He is all ! He is all !" After this the fever was very high, and. at times, affected his head ; but even then, though his head was subject to a temporary derangement, his heart seemed wholly engaged in his Master's work. In the evening he got up again, and, while sitting in his chair, he said, " How necessary it is for every one to be on the right foundation ! ' I the chief of sinners am, But Jesus died for me !' " Monday, the 28th. his weakness increased. He slept most of the day, and spoke but little ; yet, that little testified how much his whole heart was taken up in the care of the societies, tbe glory of God, and the promotion of the things pertaining to that kingdom to which he was hastening. Once he said, in a low, but distinct man ner, " There is no way into the holiest, but by the blood of Jesus." He afterwards inquired what the words were from which he had preached a little before at Hampstead. Beiug told they were these, "Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet, for your sakes he became poor, that ye, through his po verty might be rich :" he replied, " That is the foundation, the only foundation : there is no other " This day Dr. Whitehead desired he might be asked, if he would have any other physician- called in to attend him ; but this he absolutely refused. It is remarkable that he suffered very tittle pain, never complaining of any during his ill ness, but once of a pain in his left breast. This was a restless night. Tuesday morning he sang two verses of a hymn : then. lying still, as if to recover strength, he called for pen and ink ; but when they were brought, he could not write. A person said, " Let me write for ym, Sir: tell me what you would say." He replied, " Nothing, but that God is with us." In the forenoon he said, " I will get up." While they were preparing his clothes, he broke out in a manner, which, considering his extreme weakness, astonished all present, in singing " I'll praise my Maker while I've breath, Anil btn my voice is lost in death, Praise shall employ my >obler powers : My days of praise shall ne'er be past, While life, and thought, and being, last, Or immortality endures i" Having got him into his chair, they observed him change for death. But he, regardless of his dying body, said with a weak 310 PARTICULARS OF THE DEATH OF voice, " Lord, thou givest strength to those that can speak, and to those who cannot. Speak, Lord, to all our hearts, and let them know that thou loosest tongues." He then sang, "To Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Who sweetly all agree, — " Here his voice failed. After gasping for breath, he said, " Now we have done all." He was then laid in the bed, from which he rose no more. After resting a little he called to those who were with him, "To pray and praise.'* They kneeled down, and the room seemed to be filled with the divine presence. A little after, he said, "Let me be buried in nothing but what is Woollen, and let my corpse be carried in my coffin into the chapel." Then, as if done with all below, he again begged they would pray and praise. Seve ral friends that were in the house being called up, they all kneeled down again to prayer, at which time his fervour of spirit was mani fest to every one present. But in particular parts of the prayer, his whole soul seemed to be engaged in a manner which evidently showed how ardently he longed for the full accomplishment of then united desires. And when one of the preachers was praying in a very expressive manner, that if God were about to take away their father to his eternal rest, he would be pleased to continue and in crease his blessing upon the doctrine and discipline, which he had long made his servant the mean of propagating and establishing in the world ; such a degree of fervour accompanied his loud Amen, as was every way expressive of his soul's being engaged in the answer of the petitions. On rising from their knees, he took hold of all their hands, and, with the utmost placidness, saluted them, and said, " Farewell, farewell." A little after, a person coming in, he strove to speak, bUt could not. Finding they could not understand him, he paused a little, and, then with all the remaining strength he had, cried out, The best of all is, God is with us; and, soon after lifting up his dying arm in token of victory, and raising his feeble voice with a holy triumph, not to be expressed, he again repeated the heart reviving words, The best of all is, God is with us. Being told that his brother's widow was come, he said, " He giveth his servants rest." He thanked her, as she pressed his hand, and affectionately endeavoured to kiss her. On wetting his lips, he said, " We thank thee, O Lord, for these and all thy mercies : bless the Church and King ; and grant us truth and peace, through Jesus Christ our Lord, for ever and ever !" At another time he said, '* He causeth his servants to lie down in peace." Then pausing a little, he cried, " The clouds drop fatness !" and soon after, " The Lord is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge !" He then called those present to prayer : and though he was greatly exhausted, he appeared still more fervent in spirit. These exertions were, however, too much for his feeble frame ; and most of the night following, though he often attempted to repeat the Psalm before mentioned, he could only utter, " I'll praise— I'll praise !'' THE REV. JOHN WESI.F.V . I; 1 ] On Wednesday morning, the closing scene drew near. Mr. Bradford, his faithful friend, prayed with him, and the last words lie was heard to articulate were, "Farewell !" A few minutes before ten, while several of his friends were kneeling around his bed, with out a lingering groan, this man of God, this beloved pastor of thou sands, entered into the joy of his Lord. He was in the eighty-eighth year of his age, had been sixty-five years in the ministry-; and the preceding pages willbe a lasting- memorial of his' uncommon zeal, diligence, and usefulness, iii his Master's work, for more than half a century. His death was ain admirable close of so laborious and useful a life. At the desire of many of his friends his corpse was placed in the New-Chapel, and remained there the day before his interment. His face during that time had a heavenly smile upon it, and a beauty which was admired by all that saw it. March the 9th, was the day appointed for his interment. The preachers then in London requested that Dr. Whitehead should de liver the funeral discourse ; and the executors afterwards approved of the appointment. The intention was, to carry the corpse into the chapel,- and place it in a raised situation before the pulpit during the service. . But the crowds which came to see the body while it lay in the coffin, both in the private house, and especially in the chapel the day before his funeral, were so-great, that his friends were apprehensive of a tumult, if they should proceed on theplan first intended It was therefore resolved, the evening before, to bury him between five and six in the morning. Though the time of notice to his friends was short, and the design itself was spoken of with great caution, yet a considerable number of persons attended at that early hour. The late Rev. Mr. Richardson, who now lies with him in the same vault, read the funeral service in a manner that made it peculiarly .affecting ; when he came to that part of it, "Forasmuch as it hath pleased Almighty God to take unto himself the soul of our dear Brother, &C." he substituted, with the most tender emphasis, the epithet Father, instead of Brother, which had so powerful an effect on the congregation, that from silent tears, they seemed universally to burst out into loud weeping. INSCKir-TION. ON HIS COFFIN. ' , , JOHANNES WESLEY, A.M. Olim, Soe. Coll. Lin. Oxon. Ob. 2do. die Martii,- 1791. An. *Et. 88.* The discourse, by Dr. Whitehead, was delivered in the chapel at the hour appointed in the forenoon, to an astonishing multitude of * Jjh" Wesley; Master of Arts, formerly Fellow of Lincoln-Colleeo, Oxford, died on the second day of March, 1791, in the eighty-eighth year of his a°-e. Vol. 4.—P p 31'i 3IR. WESLEY'S LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT. people ; among whom were many ministers of the Gospel, both of the Establishment and Dissenters., The audience was still and solemn as night ; and all seemed to carry away with them, enlarged views of Mr. Wesley's character, and serious impressions of the importance of religion, and the utility of Methodism. The death of Mr. Wesley, attracted the public notice beyond any former example, perhaps, of a clergyman, however dignified. It being generally known, that he died as he had lived ; and evincod in death, the uprightness and integrity of his life, the impression on the public mind in favour of his>character and of Methodism, was almost universal ; so that some persons said, Mr. Wesley will do nfore good by his death, than he did in his whole life. This, how ever, is' certain, that a door of useifulriess was now opened to the Methodist Preachers, unknown^t any former period. THE FOLLOWING IS A COPY OF MR. WESLEY'S LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT. " In the name of God Amen ! "I, JOHN WESLEY, Clerk; some time Fellow of Lincoln-Col lege, Oxford, revoking all others, appoint this my Last Will and Testament. ' " I give all my books, now on sale, and the copies of them fonly subject to a rent charge of ,£85 a year, to the widow and children of my brother) to my faithful friends, John Horton, Merchant, George Wolff, Merchant, and William Marriott, Stock-Broker, all of London, in trust, for the general Fund of the Methodist Con ference, in carrying on the work of God, by Itinerant Preachers, on condition that they permit the following Committee, Thomas Coke, James Creighton, Peard Dickenson, Thomas Rankin, George Whitefield, and the London Assistant for the time being, still to su perintend the Printing-Press, and to employ Hannah Paramore and George. Paramore, as heretofore, unless four of the Committee judge a change to be needful. " I give, the books, furniture, and whatever else belongs to me in the three houses at Kingswood, in trust, to Thomas Coke, Alexan der Mather, and Henry Moore, to be still employed in teaching and maintaining the children of poor travelling Preachers. "I give to Thomas Coke, Doctor John Whitehead, and Henry Moore, all the books which are in my Study and Bed-chamber at MR. WESLEY S LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT. JIJ London, and in my Studies elsewhere, in trust, for the use of the Preachers who shall labour there from time to time. " I give the coins, and whatever else is found in the drawer of my bureau at London, to my dear granddaughters, Mary and Jane Smith. " I give all my manuscripts to Thomas Coke, Doctor Whitehead, and Henry Moore, to be burnt or published as they see good. " I give whatever money remains in my bureau and pockets to be equally divided between Thomas Briscoe, William Collins, John Easton, and Isaac Brown. " I desire my gowns, cassocks, sashes, and bands may remain in the chapel for the use of the Clergymen attending, there. "I desire the London Assistant, for the time being, to divide the rest of my wearing apparel among those four of the travelling Preachers that want it most ; only my pelisse I give to the Rev. Mr. Creighton ; my watch to my friend Joseph Bradford ; my gpld seal to Elizabeth Ritchie. " I give my chaise and horses to James Ward and Charles Whee ler, in trust, to he sold, and the money to be divided between Hannah Abbott and the members of the Select Society; " Out of the first money which arises from the sale of books, I bequeath to my dear sister, Martha Hall (if alive) £40; to Mr. Creighton aforesaid, £40 ; and to the Rev. Mr. Heath £60. "And whereas, I am empowered by -a. late Deed, to name the persons who are to preach in the New Chapel at London, (the Cler gymen for a continuance,) and by another Deed to name a Com mittee for appointing Preachers in the New Chapel at Bath, I do hereby appoint John Richardson, Thomas Coke,, James Creighton, Peard Dickenson, Clerks ; Alexander Mather, William Thomson, Henry Moore, Andrew Blair, John Valton, Joseph Bradford, James Rogers, and William Myles, to preach in the New Chapel at Lon don, and to be the Committee for appointing Preachers in the New Chapel at Bath. " I likewise appoint Henry Brooke, Painter ; Arthur Keene, Gent.; and William Whitestone, Stationer, all of Dublin, to receive the annuity of £5 (English) left to Kingswood- School by the late Roger Shiel, Esq. " I give £6 to be divided among the six poor men, named by the Assistant, who shall carry my body to the grave : for I particularly desire there may be no hearse, no coach, no escutcheon, no pomp, except the tears of them that loved me, and are following me to Abraham's bosom. I solemnly adjure my Executors, in the name of God, punctually to observe this. " Lastly, I give to each of those travelling Preachers who shall remain in the connexion six months after my decease, as a small token of my love, the eight volumes of sermons. " I appoint John Horton, George Wolff, and William, Marriott, aforesaid, to be Executors of this. my last Will and, Testament, for 314 THIRD CUDICIL OE MR. WESLEY'S WILL. which trouble- they will receive no recompense till the resurrection of the Just. " Witness my hand and seal, the 20th day of February, 1789. "JOHN WESLEY, (Seal.) " Signed, sealed, and delivered, by the said Testator as and for his last Will and Testament, in the presence of us, "WILLIAM CLULOW, "ELIZABETH CLULOW. "Should there be any part of my personal estate undisposed of by this my last' Will, I give the same unto my two Nieces, E. Ellison and S. Collet, equally. "JOHN WESLEY. "WILLIAM CLULOW, "ELIZABETH CLULOW. "Feb. 25, 1789. " I give my types, printing-presses, and every thing pertaining thereto, to Mr. Thomas Rankin, and Mr. George Whitefield, in trust, for the use of the Conference. "JOHN WESLEY." Above a year and a half after making this Will, Mr. Wesley ex ecuted a deed, in which he appointed seven gentlemen, viz. Dr. Thomas Coke, Messrs. Alexander Mather, Peard Dickenson, John Valton, James Rogers, Joseph Taylor, and Adam Clarke, Trustees for all his books, pamphlets, and copyright, for carrying on the work of God by Itinerant Preachers, according to the enrolled Deed, which we have already mentioned : but Dr. Coke being in America at the time of Mr. Wesley's death, the Deed was suffered to lie dor mant till his return. The three Executors then took the advice of two of the most eminent Counsellors in the kingdom, who informed them that the Deed was of a testamentary nature, and therefore superseded the Will, with respect to the books, &c. The Deed was then presented to the Judge of the Prerogative Court of Canterbury, who received it as the third Codicil of Mr. Wesley's Will ; on which the three Executors delivered up their general Probate, and received a, new one limited to those particulars which were not mentioned in the Deed. At the same time a Probate was granted by the Court to the seven Trustees, constituting them Executors for all the books, pamphlets, and copy-right, of which Mr. Wesley died possessed : and empowering them to pay all his debts and legacies. The first Preachers began to assist Mr. Wesley as Itinerants in the year 1740. Twenty-five years after, viz. in the year 1765, their names and stations were, for the first time, published in the Minutes of the Conference. All therefore who came into the connexion, during that period, may be considered as the first race of >*--* - " INSCllirTIOfi ON ME. WESLEY'S TOMB. 315 Preachers. The last Conference which Mr. Wesley presided at, was in the year 1790, exactly twenty-five years from the year 1765. The Preachers who were admitted into the connexion, during this period, may be considered as the second race of Methodist Preach ers. Those who have been admitted since Mr. Wesley's death, may be considered as the third race. The following Inscription is put on Mr. Wesley's Tomb : To the Memory of THE VENERABLE JOHN WESLEY, A.M. Late Fellow of Lincoln College, Oxford. This Great Light arose (By the singular Providence of God) To enlighten these Nations, And to revive, enforce, and defend, The Pure, Apostolical Doctrines, and Practices of THE PRIMITIVE CHURCH : Which he continued to do, by his Writings and his Labours, For more than Half a Century : And, to his expressible Joy, Not only, beheld their Influence extending, And their Efficacy witnessed, In the Hearts and Lives of Many Thousands, As well in the Western Would, as in these Kingdoms : But also, far above all human Power or Expectation, Lived to see Provision made, by the singular Grace of God, For their Continuance and Establishment, To the Joy of future Generations ! Reader, If thou/art constrained to bless the Instrument, Give God the Glory ! After having languished a few days,. He at length finished his Course and his Life together: gloriously triumphing over Death, March 2, An. Dom. 1791, in the Eighty-eighth Year of his Age. 316 mr. wesley's epitaph. The following Epitaph, written by Dr. Whitehead, is inscribed on a ¦ Marble Tablet, and placed in the New Chapel, City-Road. Sacred to, the Memory Of the Rev. JOHN WESLEY, M.A. Some time Fellow of Lincoln College, Oxford, A Man, in Learning and sincere Piety, Scarcely inferior to any : In Zeal, Ministerial Labours, and extensive Usefulness. Superior (perhaps) to all Men Since the Days of St. PAUL. Regardless of Fatigue, personal Danger, and Disgrace, He went out into the highways and hedges, Calling Sinners to Repentance, And Preaching the GOSPEL of Peace. He was the Founder of the Methodist Societies; The Patron and Friend of the Lay-Preachers, By whose aid he extended the Plan of Itinerant preaching Through Great-Britain and Ireland, The JFesf-lNDiEs and America With unexampled Success. He was born June 17th, 1703, And died March 2d, 1791; In sure and certain, hope of Eternal life, Through the Atonement and Mediation of a Crucified Saviour, He was sixty-five Years in the Ministry, And fifty-two ah Itinerant Preacher : He lived to see, in these Kingdoms only7, ' About three hundred Itinerant, And a thousand Local Preachers, Raised up from the midst of his own People ; And eighty thousand Persons in the Societies under, his care. ¦ His Name will ever be had in grateful Remembrance By all who rejoice in the universal Spread Of the Gospel of CHRIST. Soli Deo Gloria. review of mr. wesley's character. 317 Having now, according to our engagements with the public, traced the life of this great and extraordinary man to its close, and having even exceeded our promises in adding to his Journal, not only an account of his death and funeral, but also a copy of his Last Will and Testament, we had intended here to conclude this first part of our work, and to refer those of our readers, who wished to see a delineation of his character, to his Life, in one vol. 8vo. by Dr. Coke and Mr. Heniy Moore ; or, to that published in two vols, by the late Dr. Whitehead. But it having been suggested to us by some friends, that this edition of his works will probably fall into the hands of many hundreds who are not in possession of, and will not have an opportunity of perusing either of these publications ; that some sketch of his character, however short, will naturally be ex pected from us ; and that the history of Mr. Wesley will be very incomplete without it : in order that we may not entirely disappoint the hopes of any of our readers in this particular, we shall bestow a few pages on this subject also : but thf-y must be but few, our en gagement being to publish Mr. Wesley's Works, and not those of any other man. A short Review of Mr. Wesley's Character. Every intelligent reader who has perused with attention the pre ceding Narrative, and has considered the many particulars of Mr. Wesley's Life, both of a public and private nature, which have been brought in review before him,, must have found himself enabled, by this time, to form an opinion of the character of this great man on good evidence! But it must be remembered, as Dr. Whitehead ob serves, (from whose Review of Mr. Wesley's character the follow ing sketch is extracted,*)1 "That some particular, circumstances, or a few occasional acts in a man's life, do not form his character, but the general tenor of his conduct. Because this shows some fixed principle that uniformly operates upon him, which, with a cor respondent practice, forms his character. And when a long, virtu ous, and useful life is crowned with an end suitable. to it, death puts a stamp upon his virtues ; Which shows us that they are not counter feit but genuine." If the candid reader will review Mr. Wesley's whole life, and judge of him by this rule, we are persuaded, he will think with us, that whatever failings, as a man, he might have, he had a degree of excellence in his character to which few men attain. " Some persons have affected to insinuate that Mr.. Wesley was a man of slender capacity ; but certainly with great injustice. His apprehension was clear, his penetration quick, and his judgment discriminative and sound ; of which his controversial writings, and his celebrity in the office he held at Oxford, when young, are sufficient * We have made this extract from Dr. Whitehead's Life of Mr. Wesley, rather than from that by Dr. Coke and Mr. Moore, because we know the former is in the hands of very few of oar readers, whereas, we believe, many of them are in possession of the latter. 318 REVIEW OF MR. WESLEY'S CHARACTER. proofs. In governing a large body of preachers and people, of va rious habits, interests, and principles, with astonishing calmness and regularity for many years ; he showed a strong capacious mind, that could comprehend and combine together a vast variety of circum stances, and direct their influence through the great body he governed. As a Scholar, he certainly, held a conspicuous rank. He was a Critic in the Latin and Grefek Classics ; and was well acquainted with the Hebrew, as well as with most of the European languages now in use. But the Greek was his favourite language, in which his knowledge was extensive and- accurate. At College, he had studied with a good deal of care, Euclid, Keil,. Sir 'Isaac Newton's Optics, &c. &c : but he never entered far into) the more abstruse parts, or the higher branches of the Mathematics ; finding they would fascinate his mind, and absorb all hjs.attention, and divert him from the pursuit of the more important objects of his own profession. " Natural History was a field in which he walked at every oppor tunity, and contemplated. With infinite pleasure, the wisdom, the power, and the goodness of God, in the structure of natural bodies, and in the .various instincts and habits of the animal creation. But he was obliged to view these wonderful works of God, in the labours and records of others ; his various aiid continual employments of a higher nature not permitting him to make experiments and observa tions for himself. _, " As a Writer, he certainly possessed talents, both from nature and education suffi. ient to procure hfm considerable reputation. But Mr. Wesley did not write for fame , his object was to instruct and benefit that numerous class of people, who have a plain understand ing with -plain, common sense, little learning, little money, and but little time to spare for reading. In all his writings he constantly kept these circumstances in view. Content with doing good, he used no trappings merely to please, or to gain applause. The distinguishing character of his style is, brevity and perspicuity. He never lost sight of the rule which Horace gives, ' Est brevitale opus, ut currat sentential, neu se Impedial verbis lassas oneranlibus aukex.' ' Concise your diction, let your sense be clear, Nor, with a weight oT words fatigue the ear.' In his works, we may observe his words are well chosen, being pure, proper to his subject, and. precise in their meaning. His sentences commonly have clearness, unify, and strength : and wherieyer he took time, and gave. the necessary attention to his subject, both his manner of treating it, and his style, show the hand of a master. " The following is a just character of Mr. Wesley as a Preacher : ' His attitude in the pulpit was graceful and easy ; his action calm and natural, yet pleasing and expressive ; ' his voice not loud, but clear and manly ; his style neat, simple, and perspicuous ; and admirably adapted to the capacity of his hearers. His discourses, REVIEW OF ME. WESLEY S CHARACTER. 319 in point of composition, were extremely different on different occa sions. When he gave himself sufficient time for study, he succeeded, but when he -did not, he frequently failed.' It was indeed manifest to his friends, for many years before he died, that his employments were too many, and he preached too often, to appear with the same advantage at all times in the pulpit. His sermons were always short : he was seldom more than : half ¦ an hour in delivering a discourse, sometimes not so long. His subjects were judiciously chosen ; in structive and interesting to-the audience, and well adapted to gain attention and warm the heart. " The Travels of Mr. Wesley in the' work of the ministry, for fifty years together, were without precedent. During this period, he travelled about four thousand five hundred miles every year, one . year with another ; which give two hundred and twenty-five thou sand miles, that he travelled after he became an Itinerant Preacher ! It had been impossible for him to perform, this almost incredible de gree of labour, without great punctuality and caire in the manage ment of his time. He had stated hours for every purpose : and his only relaxation was a change of employment. His rules were like the laws of the Medes and Persians, absolute and irrevocable. He had a pecul'rar pleasure in reading and study; and every literary man knows the force of this passion, how apt it is to make him en croach on the time which ought to be employed in other duties : he had a high relish for polite conversation, especially with pious, learned, and sensible men ; but whenever the hour came he was to set out on a journey, he instantly quitted any subject or any com pany in which he might be engaged, without any apparent reluc tance. For fifty-two years, or upwards, he generally delivered two, frequently three or four sermons, in a day. But calculating at two sermons, a day, and allowing as a writer of his life has done, fifty annually for extraordinary occasions, the whole number during this period will be forty thousand five hundred and sixty. To these might be added an infinite number of exhortations to the societies after preaching, and in other occasional meetings at which he ' as sisted. (< ' Ip social life, Mr. Wesley was lively and conyersible.' He had most exquisite talents to make himself agreeable in company : and having been much accustomed to society, the rules of good breeding were habitual to him. The abstraction of a scholar did not appear in his behaviour ; he was attentive and polite. He spoke a good deal where he saw it was expected, which was almost always the case wherever he visited : his invitations to the best families being generally given to show him respect, and to hear him converse on the different subjects proposed. ¦ Having seen much of the world in his travels, and read'more, his mind was well stored With an infinite number of anecdotes and observations ; and the manner in which he related them, was no inconsiderable addition to the entertainment they afforded. And in private life among his friends, his manner was equally sprightly and pleasant. It was impossible to be long in vol. 4 — Q q 320 REVIEW OF MR. WESLF.V'S CHARACTER. his company, either in public or in private, without partaking of his placid cheerfulness,; which was not abated by the infirmities of age, or the approach of death ; but was as conspicuous at fourscore and seven, as at one and twenty. " ' A remarkable feature in Mr.' Wesley's character, was his pla cability.' Having an active penetrating mind, his temper was natu rally quick, and even tending to sharpness. The influence of. reli gion, and the constant habit of close thinking, had, in a great measure, corrected this disposition. 'In general- he preserved an'airof se- dateness and tranquillity, which formed a striking contrast to the liveliness conspicuous in all his actions.' Persecution, abuse, or in jury he bore from strangers,, not only without anger, but without any .apparent emotion, and what he said of himself was strictly true : that he had a great facility in forgiving injuries. 'Submission on the part of the offender, presently disarmed his resentment, and he would treat him with great kindness and cordiality.' No man was ever more free from jealousy or suspicion than Mr. Wesley, or laid himself more open to the impositions of others. Though his confi dence was often abused, and circumstances sometimes took place, which would have made 'almost any other man suspect.every body about him, yet he suspected no one ; nor was it easy to convince him, that any one had intentionally deceived him. And when facts had demonstrated that this was actually the. case, he would allow no more, than that It was so in .that single instance. And if the person acknowledged his fault, he believed him sincere, and would trust him again. If we view this temper of his mind in con nexion with a circumstance before mentioned, that his most pri vate concerns lay open to the inspection of those constantly about him, it will afford as strong a proof as can well be given, of the in tegrity of his own mind ; and that he was at the furthest distance from any intention to deceive, or impose upon others. " 'The temperance of Mr. Wesley was extraordinary.' When at college he carried it so far, that his friends thought him blameable. But he never imposed upon Others, the same degree of rigour he exercised upon himself. He only said, I. must be the best judge of what is hurtful, or beneficial to me. Among other things, he was remarkable in the article of sleep ; and his notion of it cannot be better explained than, in his own words. ' Healthy men,' says he, « require above six hours sleep ; healthy women, a little above seven, in four and twenty. If any one desires to know exactly what quantity of sleep ids own constitution requires, he may very easily make the experiment, which I made about sixty years ago. I then waked every night about twelve or one, and lay awake for some time. I readily concluded, that this arose from my being in bed longer than nature required. To be satisfied, I procured an alarum, which waked me the next morning at seven, (nearly an hour earlier than I rose the day before) yet I lay awake again at night. The second morning I1 rose at six;, but notwithstanding this, I lay awake the second night. The third morning I rose at five ; but nevertheless. REVIEW OF MR. WESLEY 3 CHARACTER. 32 I I lay awake the third night. The fourth morning I rose at four,* as, by the grace of God, I have done ever since : and I lay awake no more. And I do not now lie awake, taking the year round, a quarter of an hour together in a month. By the same experiment, rising earlier- and earlier every, morning, may any one find how much sleep he wants.' " It must, however, be observed, that for many years before his death, Mr. Wesley slept more or less every day. And his great readiness to fall asleep at anytime when fatigued, was a considerable means of keeping up his strength, and enabling him to go through so much labour. He never could endure to sleep on a soft bed. Frequently at night, when he thought the bed too soft to sleep upon, he was wont to lay himself across it, and roll two or three times backward and forward, till it was sufficiently flattened, and then he would get into it. Even in the latter part of life, when the in firmities of age pressed upon him, his whole conduct was at the greatest distance from softness or effeminacy. "A writer of Mr. Wesley's Life, from. whom some observations, respecting his general character, have already been taken, has fur ther observed, ' Perhaps the most charitable man in England, was Mr. Wesley.' His liberality to the poor, kUew no bounds but an empty pocket. He gave away, not merely a certain part of his income, but all that he had : his own wants provided for, he devoted all the rest to the necessities of others. He entered upon this good work at a very early period. We are told, that, 'When he bad thirty pounds a year, he lived on twenty-eight, and gave away forty shillings. The next year, receiving sixty pounds, he still lived on twenty-eight, and gave away two and thirty. The. third year he re ceived ninety pounds, and gave away sixty-two. The fourth year he received one hundred and twenty pounds. Still he lived on twenty-eight,?and gave to the poor ninety-two.' In this ratio he proceeded during the rest of his life: and, in the course of fifty years, it has . been supposed, he gave away between twenty and thirty thousand pounds ; a great part of which, most other men would have put out at interest) upon good security. '" In the distribution of his money, Air. Wesley was as disinterest ed as he was charitable. He had no regard to family connexions, nor even to the wants of the preachers who laboured with him, in preference to strangers.. He- knew that these had some friends ; and he thought that the poor destitute stranger might havenone, and therefore, had the first claim on his liberality. When a trifling legacy has been paid him, he has been known to dispose of it in some charitable way before he slept, that it might not remain his own property for one night: ' Every one ¦ knows the apostrophes in which he addressed the public, more than once, on this subject, declaring, that his own hands should be his executors. ' And though Mr. Wesley maybe said to have lived in the course of sixty years, five years more than those who spend eight hqur3 0utof twenty-four in sleep, and seven years and a half more than those who sleep nine hours in the twenty-four. 322 REVIEW OF MR. UEbLEi's CHARACTER. he gained all he could by his publications, and saved all he. could, not wasting so much as a.sheet of paper ; yet, by giving all he could, he was preserved from laying up treasures upon earth. He had declared in print, that, if he died worth more than ten pounds, independent of his books, and the arrears of his fellowship, which he then held, he would give the world leave to call him, ' a thief and a robber.' This declaration, made in the integrity of his heart, and height of his zeal, laid him under some inconveniences afterwards, from cir cumstances which he could not at that time foresee. Yet in this, as all his friends expected, he literally kept his word, as far as human foresight could reach. His chaise and horses, his clothes, and a few trifles of that kind, were all, his books excepted, that he left at his death. Whatever might be the value of his books, is of no consequence, as they were placed in the hands of trustees, and the profits arising from the sale of them were to be applied to the use and benefit of the Conference; reserving only a few legacies which Mr. Wesley left, and a rent-charge of- eighty-five pounds a year to be paid to his brother's widow ; which was not a legacy but a debt, as a consideration for the copy-right of his brother's hymns. "Among the other excellencies of Mr. Wesley, his moderation iri controversy deserves to be noticed. Writers of controversy too often forget, that their own character is intimately connected with the manner in which Jhey treat others : and if they have no regard for their opponents, they should have some for themselves. When a writer becomes personal and abusive, it affords a fair presumption against his arguments, and ought to put- us on our guard against deception. Most pf Mr. Wesley's opponents were of this descrip tion ; their railing W.as much more violent, than their reasons were cogent. Mr, Wesley kept his temper, and wrrote like a Christian, a gentleman, and a scholar. He might have taken -the words of the excellent Hooker, as a motto to. his. polemical tracts,- ' To your railing I say nothing, to your- reasons I say -what follows.' He admired the temper in which Mr. Law wrote controversy : only in some instances Mr.- Law showsa contempt for his opponent, which Mr. Wesley thought was' highly improper." We shall finish this review of Mr. Wesley's character, with two or three sketches of it drawn up by different persons, and printed soon after his death ; being persuaded they will be highly acceptable to the candid reader. " Now that Mr. John Wesley has finished his course upon earth, I may be allowed to estimate his character, and the loss the world has sustained by his death. Upon a fair account, it appears to be such, as not only annihilates all the reproaches that have beemcast upon him ; but.^suchas does honour to mankind, at the same time that it reproaches tbern. His natural and acquired abilities, were both of the highest rank. His apprehension was lively and distinct; his learning extensive. His judgment, though not infallible, was, in most cases, excellent. His mind was steadfast and resolved. His elocution was ready and clear, graceful and easy, accurate and R.EVIEW OF MR.-WESLE1TS CHARACTER. 323 unaffected. As a writer, his style, though unstudied, and flowing with natural ease, yet for accuracy and perspicuity, was such as may vie with the best writers in the English language. Though his temper was naturally warm, his manners were gentle, simple, and uniform. Never were such happy talents better seconded by an unrelenting perseverance in those courses, which his singular endowments, and his zealous love to the interests of mankind, marked out for him. His constitution was excellent : and never was a constitution less abused, less spared, or more excellently applied, in an exact subservience to the faculties of his mind. His labours and studies were wonder ful. The latter were not confined to Theology only, but extended to every subject that tended, either to the improvement, or the rational entertainment of the mind. If we consider the reading he discovers by itself, his writings and his other labours by themselves, any one of them will appear sufficient to have kept a person of ordinary application, busy during his whole life. In short, the trans actions of his life could never have been performed, without the utmost exertion of two qualities, which depended, not upon his capacity, but on the uniform steadfastness of his resolution. These were inflexible temperance, and unexampled economy of time. In these he was a pattern to the age he lived in ; and an example, to what a surprising extent a man may render " himself useful in his generation, by temperance and punctuality. His friends and follow ers have no reason to be ashamed of the name of Methodist, he has entailed upon them : as, for an uninterrupted course of years, he has given the world an instance of the possibility of living without wasting a single hour; and of the advantage of a regular distribution of time, in discharging the important duties and purposes of life. Few ages have more needed such a public testimony to the value of time ; and perhaps none have had a more conspicuous example of the perfection, to which the improvement of it may be carried. "¦As a minister, his labours were unparalleled, and such as nothing could have supported him under, but the warmest .zeal for the doc trine he taught, and for the eternal interests of mankind. He studied to be gentle, yet vigilant and faithful towards all. He pos sessed himself in patience, and preserved himself unprovoked, nay, even unruffled, in the midst of persecution,j"eproach, and all manner of abuse, both of his person and name. But let his own works praise him. _ He now enjoys the fruits of his labours, and that praise which he sought, not of men, but of God. " To finish the ^portrait. Examine the general tenor of his life, and it will be found self-evidently inconsistent with his being a slave to any one passion or pursuit, that can fix a blemish on his charac ter. Of what use were the accumulation of wealth to him, who, through his whole course, never allowed himself to taste the repose of indolence, or even of the common indulgence in the use of the necessaries of life. Free, from the partiality of any party, the sketcher of this excellent character, with a friendly tear, pays it as a just tribute to the memory of so great and good a man, who, when alive was his friend." 324 REVIEW OF MR. WESLEV'S CHARACTER. The following, so far as it goes, is an accurate and beautiful pic ture of this extraordinary man, drawn by Alexander Knox, Esq. " Very lately I had an opportunity, for some days together, of ob serving Mr. Wesley with attention. I endeavoured to consider him, not so much with the eye of a friend, as with the impartiality of a philosopher : and I must declare, every hour I spent in his company, afforded me fresh reasons for esteem and veneration. So fine an old man 1 never saw. The happiness of his mind, beamed forth in his countenance. ' Every look showed how fully he enjoyed ' The gay remembrance of a life well spent ;' and wherever he went, he diffused a portion of his own felicity. Easy and affable in his de meanour, he accommodated himself to every sort of company, and showed how happily the most finished courtesy may be blended with the most perfect piety. In his conversation, we might be at a loss whether to admire most, his fine classical taste, his extensive know ledge of men and things, or his overflowing goodness of heart. While the grave and serious were charmed with his wisdom, his sportive sallies of innocent mirth delighted even the young and thoughtless; and both saw in his uninterrupted cheerfulness, the excellency of true religion. No cynical remarks on the levity of youth, imbittered his discourse : no applausive retrospect to past times, marked his present discontent. In him; even old age appear ed delightful, like an evening without a cloud; and it was impossi ble to observe him without wishing fervently, ' May my latter end be like his !' " But I find myself unequal to the task of delineating such a cha racter. What I have said, -may to some appear as panegyric ; but there are numbers, and those of" taste and discernment too, who can bear witness to the truth, though by no means to the perfectness of the sketch I have attempted. With such I haye been frequently in his company; and every one of them, I am persuaded, would sub scribe to all I have said. For my own part, I never was so happy as while with him, and scarcely ever felt more poignant regret than at parting from him ; for, well I knew, ' I ne'er should look upon his like again.' " The following beautiful portrait of Mr. Wesley was drawn by a masterly hand. It appeared soon after his death in a very respecta ble publication ; and was afterwards inserted in WoodfaU's Diary, London, June 17, 1791. " His indefatigable zeal in the discharge of his duty has been long witnessed by the world ; but, as mankind are not always inclined to put a generous construction on the exertions of singular talents, his motives were imputed to the love of popularity, ambition, and lucre. It now appears that he was actuated by a disinterested regard to the immortal interest of mankind. He laboured, and studied, and preached, and wrote, to propagate, what he believed to be the Gos pel of Christ. The intervals of these engagements were employed in governing and regulating the concerns of his numerous societies ; assisting the necessities, solving the difficulties, and soothing the af- REVIEW OF MR. WESEEY S CHARACTER. llictions of his hearers. He observed so rigid a temperance, and allowed himself so little repose, that he seemed to be above the in firmities of nature, and to act independent of the earthly tenement he occupied. The recital of the occurrences of every day of his life would be the greatest encomium. " Had he loved wealth, he might have accumulated it without bounds. Had he been fond of power, his influence would have been worth ^ courting by any party. I do not say he was without ambition ; he had that which Christianity need not blush at, and which virtue is proud to confess. I do not mean, that which is gratified by splendour and large possessions ; but that which com mands the hearts and affections, the homage and gratitude, Of thou sands. For him they felt sentiments of veneration, only inferior to those which they paid to heaven: to him they looked as their father, their benefactor, their guide to glory and immortality : for him they fell. prostrate before God, with prayers and tears, to spare his doom, and prolong his stay. Such a recompense as this, is sufficient to repay the toils of the longest life. Short of this, greatness is con temptible impotence. Before this, lofty prelates bow, and princes hide their diminished heads. " His zeal was not a transient blaze, but a steady and constant flame.. The ardour of his spirit was neither damped by difficulty, nor subdued by age. This was- ascribed by himsedf, to the power of divine grace ; by the world, to . enthusiasm. Be it what it will, it is what. Philosophers must envy, and Infidels respect ;, it is that which gives energy to the soul, and without which there can be ho great ness or heroism. " Why should we. condemn that in religion, which we applaud in every other profession and pursuit? He had a vigour and elevation of mind, which nothing but the belief of the Divine favour and presence could inspire. This threw a lustre round his infirmities, changed his bed of sickness into a triumphal car, and made his exit resemble an apotheosis rather than a dissolutioiii ." He was qualified to excel in every branch of literature : he was well versed in the learned tongues, in Metaphysics, in Oratory, in Logic, in Criticism, and every requisite of a Christian minister. His style was nervous, clear, and manly; his preaching was pathetic and persuasive ; his Journals are artless and interesting ; and his compositions and compilations to promote knowledge and piety, were almost innumerable. " I do not say he was without faults, or above mistakes •; but they were lost in the multitude of his excellencies , and virtues. " To gain the admiration of an ignorant and superstitious age, requires only a little artifice and address ; to stand the test ot these times, when all pretensions to sanctity are stigmatized as hypocrisy, is a proof of- genuine piety, and real usefulness. His great object was, to revive the obsolete doctrines, and extinguished spirit of the Church of England ; and they, who are its friends, cannot be his enemies. Yet for this he was treated as a fanatic and impostor, and o2ti REVIEW OF ME. WESLEY'S CHARACTER. exposed to every species of slander and persecution. Even Bishops and Dignitaries entered the lists against him ; but he never declined the combat, and generally proved victorious. He appeal ed to the Homilies, the Articles, and the Scriptures, as vouchers for his doctrine ; and they who could not decide upon the merits of the controversy, were witnesses of. the effects of his labours.; and they judged of the. tree by its fruit. It is true, he did not succeed much in the higher walks of life ; but that impeached his cause no more, than it did that of the first planters of the gospel. However, if he had been capable of assuming vanity on that score, he might have ranked among his friends some persons of the first distinction, who would have done honour to any party. After surviving almost all his adversaries, and acquiring respect among those who were the most distant from his principles, he lived to see the plant he had reared, spreading its branches far and wide, and inviting not only these kingdoms, but the Wrestern world, to repose under its shade. No sect, since the first ages of Christianity, could boast a founder of such extensive talents and endowments. If he had been a can didate for literary fame, he might have succeeded to his utmost wishes ; but he sought not the praise of man ; he regarded learning only as the instrument of usefulness. The great purpose of his life was doing good. For this he- relinquished all honour and prefer ment ; to this he dedicated all his powers of body and mind : at all times and in all places, in season and out of season, by gentleness, by terror, by argument, by persuasion, by reason, by interest, by every motive and every inducement, he strove with unwearied assi duity, to turn men from the error of their ways, and awaken them to virtue and religion.. To the bed of sickness, or the couch of prosperity; to the prison, the hospital, the house of mourning, or the house of feasting, wherever there was a friend to serve, or a soul to save, he readily repaired ; to administer assistance or advice, reproof or consolation. He thought.no office too humiliating, no condescension too. low, no undertaking too arduous, to reclaim the meanest of God's offspring. The souls of all men were equajly precious in his sight, and the value of an immortal creature beyond all estimation. He penetrated the, abodes of- wretchedness and ignorance, to rescue the profligate from perdition ; and he commu nicated the light of life to those who sat in darkness and the shadow of death. He changed the outcasts of society into useful mem bers ; civilized even savages, and filled those- lips with prayer and praise, that had been accustomed only to oaths and imprecations. But as the strongest religious impressions are apt to become languid, without discipline and practice,, he divided his people into classes and bands, according to their attainments. " He appointed frequent meetings for prayer and conversation, where they gave an accOunt of their experience, their hopes and fears, their joys and troubles ; by which means they were united to each other, and to their com mon profession. They became sentinels upon each other's conduct, and securities for each other's character. Thus the seeds he sowed REVIEW OF MR. H ESLE5T S CIIARai TER. 32"! sprang up apd flourished, bearing the rich fruits, of every grace and virtue. Thus he governed . and preserved his numerous societies, watching their improvement with a paternal care, and encouraging them to be faithful to the end. " But I will not attempt to draw his full character, nor to esti mate the extent of his labours and services. They will be best known when he shall deliver up his commission into the- hands of his great Master." The following description of Mr. Wesley's person, will be agree able to most readers now : and certajnly will be more so, when those who personally knew him are removed to their eternal habitations. " The figure' of Mr. Wesley was remarkable. His stature was low : his habit of body in ,e very period of life, the reverse of corpu lent, and expressive ,of strict' temperance, and continual exercise ; and, notwithstanding- his small sizo, his step was firm, and his ap pearance, till within a few years of his death, vigorous and muscu lar. His face, for an old man, was one of the finest we have seen. A clear, smooth forehead ; an aquiline nose ; an eye, the brightest and most piercing that can be conceived ; and a freshness of com plexion, scarcely ever to be found at his years ; and, impressive of the most perfect health, conspired to render him a' venerable and interesting figure. Few have seen him without being struck with his appearance: and many, who had been greatly prejudiced against him, have been known to change their opinion the moment they were introduced into his presence. In his countenance and de meanour, there was a cheerfulness mingled with gravity ; a sprightli- ness, which was the natural result of an unusual jflow of spirits, and yet was accompanied with every mark of the most serene tranquil lity.. His aspect, particularly in profile, had a strong character of acuteness and penetration. "In dress, -he was a pattern of neatness and simplicity. A narrow plaited stock ; a coat, with a small upright collar ; no buckles at his knees : no silk or velvet in any part of his apparel ; and a head as white as snow gave an idea of something primitive and apostolic ; while an air of neatness and cleanliness was diffused over his whole person," Voi,.,4--R PJ,AIN ACCOUNT OF THF. PEOPLE CALLED METHODISTS. IS A LSjTtER 10) THE REV. MR. PERRONET. Vicar of Shoreham, Kent. Rev. and Dear Sir, ( 1. SOME time since you desired an account of the whole econo my of the people commonly called Methodists. And you received a true, {as far as it went) but not a full account. To supply what I think was wanting in that, I send you this account; that you may know not onlytheir practice, on every head, but likewise the reasons whereon it is grounded ; the occasion of every step they have taken, and the advantages reaped thereby. , 2. Rut I must premise, that, as they bad not the least expectation at first, of any thing like what has since followed, so they had no previous design or plan at all, but every thing arose just as the occa sion offered. They saw or felt some impending or pressing evil, or some good end necessary to be pursued. And many times they fell, unawares, on the very thing, which secured the- good or removed the evil. At other times, they consulted on the most probable nieans, following' only common sense and Scripture : though they generally found, in looking back, something in Christian antiquity likewise, very nearly parallel, thereto. I. 1. About ten years ago, (this was written in the year 1748,) my brother and I were desired to preach in many partgi of London. We had no view therein, but so far as we were able, (and we knew God could work by whomsoever it pleased him,) to convince those who would hear what, true Christianity was, and to persuade them to embrace it. 2. The points we chiefly insisted upon were four : first, that or thodoxy, or right, opinions, is, at best, but a very slender part of re ligion, if it can be allowed to be any part of it at all : that neither A PLAIN ACCOUNT QF THE METHODISTS. 329 does religion consist hvnegatives, in bai-e harmlessness of any kind ; nor merely in externals, or doing good, or using the means of grace, in works of piety, so called, or of charity : that it is nothing short of, or different from, the mind that was in Christ, the image of God stamped upon the heart, inward righteousness, attended with tho peace of God, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Secondly, that the only way, under heaven, to this religion, is, to repent and believe the gospel, or, as the Apostle words it, "repentance towards God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ." Thirdly, that by this faith, "He that worketh not, but believeth on him that justified the ungodly, is justified freely by his grace, through the redemption'which' is in Je sus Christ." And lastly, "that being justified by faith," we taste of the heaven to which we are going : we areholy and happy: we tread down sin and fear, and "sit in heavenly places with Christ Jesus." . 3. Many of those who heard this, began to cry out, that, we brought strange things to their ears ; that this was doctrine which they never heard before, or, at least, never regarded. They search ed the Scriptures, whether these things were so, and acknowledged the truth as it fs in Jesus. Their hearts also were influenced as well as their understandings, and they determined to follow Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 4. Immediately they were surrounded, with difficulties : all the world rose, up against them : neighbours, strangers, acquaintance, relations, friends, began to cry out amain ; " Be not righteous over much : why shouldest thou destroy thyself? -Let not much religion make thee mad." < 5. One and another and another came to us, asking, what they should do ? Being distressed on every side, as every one strove to weaken and none to strengthen their hands in God ; we advised them, " Strengthen you one another. Talk together as often as you can. And pray earnestly, with and for one another; that you may endure to the end, and be saved." Against this advice we presumed there could be no objection ; as being grounded on the plainest reason, and on so many scriptures, both Of the Old Testament and the New, that it would be tedious to recite them. 6. They said, " But we want you likewise to talk with us often, to direct and quicken us in our way, to' give us the advices which you Well know we- need, and to pray with us as well as for us." I asked, which of you desire this ? Let me know your names and places of abode. They did so. But I. soon found they were too many for me to talk with severally so often as they .wanted it : so I told them, " If you will all of you come together, every Thursday, in the evening, I will gladly spend seme time with you in prayer, and give you the best advice I can." 7. Thus arose, without any previous design on either side, what was afterwards called, "A Society :" a very innocent name, and very common in London, for any number of people associating themselves 330 A l'LAIN ACCOUNT Ot Tllb METHODISTS. together. The thing proposed in their associating themselves toge ther was obvious to every one. They wanted to flee from the wrath to come, and to assist each other in so doing. They therefore united themselves, " in order to pray together, to receive the word of exhortation, and to watch over one another in love, that they might help each other to wprk out their salvation." ' 8. There is one only condition previously required, in those who desire admission into this society, 'A desire to flee from the wrath to come, to be saved from their sins.' " They now likewise agreed, that as many of them as had an op portunity, would meet together every Friday, arid spend the dinner hour in crying to God, both for each other and for all mankind. 9. It quickly appeared, that their thus uniting together, answered the end proposed therein. In a few months the far greater part of those who had begun to fear God, and work righteousness, but were not united together, grew faint in their minds, and fell back into what they were before. Meanwhile, the far greater part of those who were thus. united together, continued "striving to enter in at the strait gate, and to lay hold on eternal life." ' 10. Upon reflection, I could not but observe, this is'tbe very thing which was from the beginning of Christianity. In the earliest times, those whom God had sent forth, preached the gospel to every crea ture. And the a mpaaTai, the body of hearers, were mostly either Jews or Heathens. But as soon as any of these were so convinced of the truth as to forsake sin and seek the gospel salvation, they im mediately joined them together, took an account of their names, advised them to watch over each other, and met these xatDx**"" , (Catechumens, as they were then called) apart from the great con gregation, that they might instruct, rebuke, exhort, and pray with them, and for them, according to their Several necessities. 1 1 . But it was not long before an objection was made to this, which had not once entered into my thoughts. Is not this making a schism ? Is not the joining those people together, gathering churches out of churches ? It was easily answered ; if you mean only gathering people out of buildings called churches, it is. But if you mean, dividing Chris tians from Christians, and so destroying Christian fellowship, it is not. For, 1, These were not Christians before they were thus joined. Most of them were barefaced Heathens. 2, Neither are they Christians from whom you supposed them to be divided. You will not look me in the face and say they are. What! Drunken Christians ? Cursing and swearing Christians ? Lying Christians ? Cheating Christians ? If these are Christians at all, they are devil Christians, as the poor.Malabarians term them. 3, Neither are they divided any more than they were before, even from these Wretched devil Christians : they are as ready as ever to assist them, and to perform every office of real kindness toward them. 4, If it be said, "But thei'e are some .true Christians in the parish, and yon A hLAlN ACCOUNT UI' THE .METHOOibTb. 331 destroy the Christian fellowship between these and them." I answer, that which never existed cannot be destroyed : but "the fellowship you speak of never existed, therefore it cannot be destroyed. Which of those true Christians had any such fellowship with these ? Who watched over them' in love ? Who marked their growth in grace ? Who advised and exhorted them from time to time ? Who prayed with them and for them as they had need ? This, and , this alone, is Christian fellowship : , but, alas. ! Where is it-to be found ? Look east or West, north or South : name what -parish yon please. Is this Christian fellowship there ? Rather, aire not the bulk of the parish ioners a mere rope of sand? What Christian connexion is there between them ? What intercourse in spiritual things ? What watch ing over each other's souls ? What bearing of one another's burdens ? What a mere jest is it then totalkso gravely of destroying what never was! The real truth is just the reverse of this: we introduced Christian fellowship where it was utterly destroyed. And the fruits of it have been peace, joy, and love, and zeal for every good word and work. II. 1. But as much as we endeavoured to watch over each other, we soon found some who did not live the gospel. I do. not know that any hypocrites were crept in ; for, indeed,, there was no tempta tion : > but several grew cold, • and gave way to the sins which had long easily beset them; we quickly perceived, there were many ill consequences of suffering these to remain among us ; it was dan gerous to others, inasmuch as all sin is of ah infectious nature ; ' it brought such a scandal on their brethren, as exposed them to wbat was not properly the' reproach of Christ ; ' it laid a stumblingebfock in the way of others, and caused the truth to be evil spoken of; 2. We groaned under those inconveniences long before a remedy could be found. The people were scattered so wide, in all parts of the town, from Wapping to Westminister, that I could not easily see what the behaviour of each person in Ids own neighbourhood Was ; so that several disorderly walkers did much hurt before I was apprized of it. ' 3. At length, while we were thinking of quite another thing, we struck upon a method for which we nave bad cause to bless God ever since. I Was talking with several of the society in Bristol con cerning the means, of paying the debts there, when one stood up and said, "Let, every member of the society give a penny a week, till all arC. paid." Another answered, " But many of them are poor, and cannot afford to" do it." "Then," said he," put eleven of the poorest with me, and if they can give anything, well: I will call on them weekly; and, if they can give nothing, 1 will give for them as well as for myself: and each of you call on eleven of your neigh bours weekly, receive what they give, and make up what is Wanting." It was done. Iri awhile some of these informed me, "they found such and such a one did not live as he ought." It struck me imme diately, ^This is the thing, the very thing we have Wanted so long." I called together all the leaders of the classes, (so we used to term applying several Scripture rules, couched in general terms, to particular occasions. 332 A PLAIN ACCOUNT OF THE METHODISTS. them and their companies,) and desired that each would make a particular inquiry into the behaviour of those whom he saw weekly; they did so : many disorderly walkers were detected ; some turned from the evil of their-ways : some were put away from us : many saw it with fear, and rejoiced unto God with reverence. 4. As soon as, possible the same method was used in London and all other places. Evil men were detected, and reproved : they were borne with for a season : if they forsook their sins we received them gladly.: if they obstinately persisted therein, it was openly declared, that they were not of us. The rest mourned and prayed for them, and yet rejoiced, that as far as in us lay, the scandal was rolled away from the society. 5. It is the business of a leader, I. To see each person in his class, once a week at the least; in order, To inquire how their souls prosper ; To advise, reprove, comfort, or exhort, as occasion may require ; To receive what , they are willing to give towards the relief of the poor. II. To meet the minister and the stewards of the society, in order, To inform the minister of any that are sick, or of any that are disorderly, and will not be reproved. To pay to the stewards what they have received of their several classes in the week preceding. 6. At first they visited each person at his own house ; but this was soon found not so expedient; and that on many accounts ; 1, It took up more time than most of the leaders had to spare. 2, Many persons lived with masters, mistresses, or relations, who would not suffer them to be thus visited. 3, At the houses of those who were not so averse they often had no opportunity.of speaking to them but in company : and this did not at all answer the- end proposed, of exhorting, comforting, or reproving. 4, It frequently happened, that one affirmed what another denied ; and" this could not be cleared without seeing them together. 5, Little misunderstandings and quarrels, of various kinds, frequently arose among, relations or neighbours ; effectually to remove which it was needful to see them all face to face. Upon all these considerations it was agreed, that those of each class should meet all together : and by this mean, a more full inquiry was made into the behaviour of every person. Those who could not be visited at home, or no otherwise than in company, had the same advantage with others. Advice or reproof was given as need required ; quarrels made up, misunderstandings removed : and, after an hour or two spent in this labour of love, they concluded with prayer and thanksgiving. 7. It can scarcely be conceived what advantages have been reaped from this little prudential regulation. Many now happily experienced that Christian fellowship, Of which they had not so much as an idea before. They began to bear one another's burdens, and naturally to care for each other. As they had daily a more intimate acquaint- A PLAIN ACCOUNT, 0V THE METHODISTS. 333 mice with, so they had a more endeared affection for each other. And " speaking the truth in love, they grew up into him in all things, who is the Head, even Christ . from whom the whole body, fitly joined together, and compacted by that which every joint supplied, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, increased unto the edifying of itself into love. " 8. But notwithstanding all these advantages, many were, at first, extremely averse to meeting thus. Some, viewing it in a wrong- point of light, not as a privilege, (indeed an invaluable one) but rather a restraint, disliked it on that account, because they did not love to be restrained in any thing. Some were ashamed to speak before company : others honestly said, " I do not know why, but I do not like it."- 9. Some objected, " There were no such meetings when I came into the society first : and why should there now ? I do not understand these things, and this changing one thing after another continually." It was easily answered; It is a pity, but they had been at first : but we knew not then either the need or the benefit. of them. Why we use them you will readily understand if you read over the Rules of the Society. That with regard to these little prudential helps we are continually changing one thing after another, is not a weak ness or fault, (as you imagine) but a peculiar advantage which we enjoy. By this means we declare them all to be merely prudential ; not essential, not of divine institution. We prevent so' far as in us lies, our growing formal or dead. We are always open to instruc tion : willing" to be wiser every day than we were before, and to change whatever we can change for the better, 10. Another objection was, " There is no Scripture for this, for classes, and I know not what." I answer, 1, There is no Scripture against it : you cannot show one text that forbids them. 2, There. is much Scripture for it, even all those texts which enjoin the sub stance of those various duties, whereof this isonly an indifferent cir cumstance, to be determined by reason and experience, 3, You seem not to have Observed, that the Scripture, in most points, gives only general rules, ^.nd leaves the particular circumstances to be adjusted, by the common sense of mankind. The Scripture (for instance) gives that general rule, " Let all things be done decently and in -order." But common sense is to determine, on particular occasions, what order and decency require. So, in another in stance, the Scripture lays it down, as a general, standing direction, " Whether ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." But it is common prudence' which is to make the applica tion of this, in a thousand particular cases. 11. "But these," said another, "are all man's inventions." This is but the same objection in another form: "and the same answer will suffice for any reasonable person. These are men's inventions :. and what then? -That i's,"they are methods, which men have found, by reason and common sense, for the more effectually 334 A PLAIN ACCOUNT OF THE METHODISTS. 12. They spoke far more plausibly than these, who said, "The thing is. well enough in itself : but the leaders are insufficient for the work : they have neither gifts, nor grace for such an employment." I answer, 1, Yet such leaders us they are, it is plain God has blessed their labour. 2,, If any of these be remarkably wanting in gifts or grace, he is soon taken notice of and removed. 3, If you know any such, tell it to rne, not to others, and I will endeavour to ex change him for a better. 4, h may be hoped, they will all be better than they are, both by experience and observation, and by the advices given them by the minister every Tuesday night, and the prayers (then in particular) offered up for them. III. 1. About this time I was informed that several persons in Kingswood, frequently met together at the school, and (when they could spare the time) spent the greater part of the night in prayer, and praise, and thanksgiving Some advised me to put an end to this: but, upon weighing the thing thoroughly, and comparing it with the practice of the ancient. Christians, I could see no cause to forbid it ; rather I believed it might be made of more general use. So I sent them word, I designed to watch with them, on the Friday nearest the full moon, that we might have light thither and back again. I gave public notice of this the Sunday before, and withal, that I intended to preach ; desiring they, and they only, would meet me there, who could do it without prejudice to their business or fa milies. On Friday, abundance of people came. I began preach ing between eight and nine, and we continued till a little beyond the noon of night, singing, praying, and praising God., 2. This we have qontinued to do once a month* ever since, in Bristol, London, and Newcastle, as well as Kingswood : and exceed ingly great are the blessings we have found therein : it has generally been an extremely solemn season ; when the word of God sunk deep into the hearts, -even of those who till then knew him not. If it be said, " This was onlyowing to the novelty of the thing (the circumstance which still draws such multitudes tog. ther at those sea sons) Or perhaps to the' awful silence of the night " I am not care ful to answer in this matter. Re it so ; however, the impression then made on.many souls has never since been effaced. , : Now, allowing that God did make use either of the novelty, or any other indifferent circumstance!, in order to bring sinners to repentance, yet they are brought : and herein let us rejoice together. 3. Now, may I not put the, case farther yet ? If I can probably conjecture, that either by the novelty of this ancient custom, or by any other indifferent circumstance, it is in my power to " save a soul from death,' and hide a multitude of sins ;" Am I clear before God if I do not ? If I do not snatch that brand out of the burning ? IV. 1. As the society increased, I found it required still greater care to separate the precious from the vile. In order to this I de termined, at least onCe in three months, to talk with every member * The watch-night? were then kept monthly. A PLAIN ACC01TNT OP THE METHODIST^. 335 myself, and to inquire at their own mouths, as well as of their leaders and neighbours, whether they grew in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ ? At these seasons I likewise particularly inquire whether there be any misunderstanding or differences among them, that every hinderance of peace and brotherly love may be taken out of the way. 2. To each of those, of whose seriousness and good conversation I found no reason to doubt, I gave a testimony under my own hand, by writing the name of each on a ticket prepared for that purpose ; every ticket implying as strong a recommendation of the person to whom it is given, as if I wrote at length, " I believe the bearer hereof to be one that fears God. and works righteousness." " 3. Those who bore these tickets (these 2w/k£»a«, or Tessera, as the ancients termed them : being of just the same force with the £*- . 1 . Be plain and open in dealing with souls ; 2. Be. mild; tender, patient ; 3. Be cleanly in all you do for the sick; 4. Be not nice. 6. We have ever since had great reason to praise God for his continued blessing on this undertaking. Many lives have been saved ; many sicknesses healed ; much pain and want prevented or removed; many heavy hearts have been made' glad ; many mourners comforted : and the visiters have found from him, whom they serve, a present reward for all their labour. XII. 1 . But I was still in pain for many of the poor that were sick ; there was so great expense and so little profit : and first, I resolved to try whether they might not receive more benefit in the hospitals : upon the trial, we found there was indeed less expense, but no more good done than before. I then asked the advice of several physicians for them, but still it profited not. I saw the poor A PLAIN ACCOUNT OP THE METHODls I 'if. 341 people pining .away, and several families ruined, and that without remedy. 2. At length I thought of a kind of desperate expedient. " I will prepare, and give them physic myself." For six or seven and twenty years I had made Anatomy and Physic the diversion of my leisure hours ; though I never properly studied them, unless for a few months, when I was going into America, where I imagined I might be of some service to those who had no regular physici-m among them. I applied to it again. I took into my assistance an apothecary, and an experienced surgeon : resolving, at the same time, not to go out of my depth ; but to leave all difficult and com plicated cases, to such physicians as tbe patients should choose. 3. I gave notice of this to the society; telling them, that all who were ill of chronical distempers (for I did not care to venture upon acute) might, if they pleased, come to me at such a time ; and I would give them the best advice I could, and the best medicines I had. 4 Many came ; (and so every Friday since ;) among the rest was one William Kirkman, a weaver, near Old Nich d-Street : I asked him, " what complaint have you ?" " O Sir," said he, " a cough, a very sore cough. I can get no rest day nor night." I asked, " How long have you had it ?" He replied, " About three score years : it began when i was eleven years old." I was nothing glad, that this man should come first, fearing our not curing him might discourage others: however, I looked up to God, and said, " Take this, three or four times a day. If it does you no good, it will do you no harm." He took it two or three days. 'His cough was cured : and has not returned to this day. 5. Now let candid men judge, does humility require me to deny a notorious fact ? If Hot, which is vanity ? To say, I, by my own skill, restored this man to health ; or, to say, God did it by his own Almighty power ? By what figure of speech this is called boasting, I know not : but I will put no name to such a fact as this : I leave that to the Rev. Dr. Middleton. 6. In five months, medicines were occasionally given, to above live hundred persons, several of these I never saw before, for I did not regard whether they were of the society or not. In that time seventy-one of these, regularly taking their medicines, and following the regimen prescribed, which three in four would not do, were entirely cured, of distempers long thought to be incurable. The whole expense of medicines, during this time, was nearly forty pounds. We continued this ever since,* and, by the blessing of God, with more and more success. XIII. 1. But I had for some years observed many, who^ although not sick, were not able to provide for themselves, and had nOne who took care to provide for them : these were chiefly feeble, aged widows. I consulted with the stewards, how they might be relieved ? * This was written in 1743, 342 A PLAIN ACCOUNT OF THE METHODISTS. They all agreed, if we could keep them in one house, it would not only be far less expensive to us, but also far more comfortable for them. Indeed, we had no money to begin : but we believed He would provide, "who defendeththe cause of the widow." So we took a lease of tw6 little houses near: We fitted them up, so as to be warm ¦ and clean. We took in as many widows as we had room for, and provided them with things needful for the body ; toward the expense of which. I set aside, first, the weekly contributions of the bands, and then all f hat was collected at the Lord's-Supper. It is true, this does not suffice ; so that we are still considerably in debt, on this account also. But, we are persuaded, it will not always be so ; seeing " the earth is the Lord's and the fulness thereof." 2. In this (commonly called the poor-house,) we have now nine widows, one blind woman, two poor children, two upper servants, a maid, and a man : I might add, four or five preachers : for 1 myself, as well as the other preachers, who are in town, diet with the poor, on the same food, and at the same table. And we rejoice herein as a comfortable earnest of our eating bread together in our Father's kingdom. ' 3. I have blessed God for this house ever since it began ; but lately much more than ever. I honour these widows, for they are widows indeed. So that it is not in vain, that without any design of so doing we have copied after another of the institutions of the apostolic age. I can now say to all the world, " Come, and see, how these Christians love one another, !"* XIV. 1. Another thing which had given me frequent concern, was the case of abundance of children : some, their parents could not afford to put to school, so they remained like a wild ass's colt. Others were sent to school, and learned, at least, to read and write ; but they learned all kind of vice at the same time ; so that it had been better for them to have been without their knowledge, than to have bought it at so dear a price. 2. At length I determined to have then\ taught in my own house, that they might have an opportunity of learning to read, write, and cast accounts, (if no more) without' being under almost a necessity of learning heathenism', at the same time. And after several un successful trials, I found two such schoolmasters as I wanted ; men of honesty and" of sufficient knowledge, who had talents for, and their hearts in the work. 3. They have now, under their care, nearly sixty children : the parents Of some pay for their schooling, but the greater part, being very poor, do not ; so that the expense is chiefly defrayed by voluntary contributions. We have of late clothed them too, as many as wanted., The Rules of the School are these that fol low: 1 .. No child is admitted Under six years of age : 3, AH the children are to be present at the morning sermon : * This has been since dropped for want of support A PLAIN ACCOUNT OK THE METHODISTS. 'Mo 3. They are at school from six to twelve, and from one to five .* 4. They have no play-days : 5. No child is to speak in school, but to the masters : 6. The child who misses two days in one week, without leave, is excluded the school. 4. We appoint two stewards for the school also. The busi ness of these is, To receive the school-subscriptions, and expend what is heed ful; To talk with each of the masters weekly ; To pray with, and exhort the children twice a week ; To inquire diligently, whether they grow in grace and in learning, and whether the rules are punctually observed ; Every Tuesday morning in conjunction with the masters, to ex clude those children that do not observe the said rules ; Every Wednesday morning, to meet with and exhort their parents, to train them up at home in the ways of God. 5. A happy change was soon observed in the children, both with regard totheir tempers and behaviour. They learned reading, writing, and arithmetic swiftly ; and at the same time they were diligently instructed in the sound principles of religion, and earnestly exhorted to fear God, and work out their own salvation. XV. 1. A year or two ago, I observed, among many, a distress of another kind. They frequently wanted, perhaps, in order to carry on their business, a present supply of money. They scrupled to make use of a pawnbroker ; but, where to borrow it, they knew not. I resolved to try if we couid not find a remedy for this also. I went, in a few days, from one end of the town to the other ; and exhorted those who had this world's goods, to assist their needy brethren. Fifty pounds were contributed. This was immediately lodged in the hands of two stewards ; who attended every Tuesday morning, in order to lend, to those who wanted, any small sum, not exceeding twenty shillings, to be repaid within three months. 2. It is almost incredible, but it manifestly appears, from their ac counts, that, with this inconsiderable sum, two hundred and fifty have been assisted within the space of one year. Will not God put it into the heart of some lover of mankind to increase this little stock ? Ifthis is not lending unto the Lord, what is ? O confer not with flesh and blood, but immediately " Join hands with God, to make a poor man live." 3. I think, Sir, now you know all that I know of this people. You see the nature, occasion, and design of whatever is practised among them. And I trust, you may be pretty well able to answer any questions which maybe asked concerning them ; particularly by those who inquire concerning my revenue, and what I do with it all ? 4. Some have supposed, this was no greater than that of the * Afterwards fliey bearan later. Vol. 4— T t 344 A PLAIX ACCOUMT OF THE BIETHODISTS. Bishop of London : but others computed, that I receive eight hun dred a year from Yorkshire only : now, if so, it cannot be so little as ten thousand pounds a year, which I receive out of all England ! 5. Accordingly, a gentleman in Cornwall, (the Rector of R ) extends the calculation pretty considerably. " Let me see," said he : " two millions of Methodists ; and each of these paying two-pence a week." If soj I must have eight hundred and sixty thousand pounds, with some odd shillings and pence, a year ! 6. .A tolerable competency ! But, be it more or less, it is nothing at all to me. All that is contributed or collected in every place, is both received and expended by others ; nor have 1 so much as the " beholding thereof with my eyes." And so it will be, till I turn Turk or Fagan. For I look Upon all this revenue, be it what it may, as sacred to God and the poor : out of which, if I want any thing, I am relieved, even as another poor man : so were originally all ecclesiastical revenues, as every man of learning knows : and the bishops and priests used them only as such. If any use them otherwise now, God help them ! 7 I doubt not, but if I err in this, or any other point, you will pray God to show me his truth. To " have a conscience void of offence towards God and towards man," is the desire of, Rev. and dear Sir, Your affectionate brother and servant, JOHN WESLEY. THE NATURE, DESIGN, AND GENERAL RULES OF THE UNITED SOCIETIES. London, Bristol, Kingswood, and Newcastle-upon-Tyne, #c. fyc. 1. IN the latter end of the year 1739, eight or ten persons came to me in London, who appeared to be deeply convinced of sin, and earnestly groaning for redemption. They desired, as did jtwo or three more the next day, that I would spend some time with them in prayer, and advise them how to flee from the wrath to come, which they saw continually hanging over their heads. That we might have more time for this great work, I appointed a day when they might all come together ; which, from thenceforward, they did every week ; viz. on Thursday in the evening. To these, and as many more as desired to join with them, (for their number increased daily,) I gave those advices, from time to time, which I judged riaost needful for them ; and we always concluded our meetings with prayer suitable to their several necessities. 2. This was the rise of the Umt^ d Society, first in London and then in other places. Such a society is no other than, " A company of men, having the form, and seeking the power of godliness: united, in order to pray together, to receive the word of exhortation, and to watch over one another in love, that they may help each other to work out their salvation." 3. That it may the more easily be discerned, whether they are indeed working out their own salvation, each society is divided into smaller companies, called classes, according to their respective places of abode. There are about twelve persons in every class, one of whom is styled the leader : it is his business, First, To see each person in his class, once a jveek at least, in order, To inquire how their souls prosper : To advise, reprove, comfort, or exhort, as occasion may require ; To receive what they are willing to give, towards the support of the gospel. 346 GENERAL RULES, &C. Secondly, To meet the minister and the stewards of the society once a week, in order, To inform the minister of any that' are sick, or of any that walk disorderly, and will not be reproved ; To pay to the stewards what they have received of their several classes in the week preceding : and, To show their account of what each person has contributed. 4. There is one only condition previously required of those who desire admission into these societies, viz. "a desire to flee from the wrath to come, and be saved from their sins :" but wherever this is really fixed in the soul, it will be shown by its fruits. It is there fore expected of all who continue therein, that they should con tinue to evidence their desire of salvation ; First, By doing no harm, by avoiding evil in every kind ; espe cially that which is most generally practised. Such as, The taking the name of God in vain : The profaning the day of the Lord, either by doing ordinary work thereon, or by buying or selling. Drunkenness ; buying or selling spirituous liquors : or drinking them, unless in cases of extreme necessity : Fighting, quarrelling, brawling; brother going to law with brother; returning evil for evil, or railing for railing ; the using many words in buying or selling ; The. buying or selling uncustomed goods : The giving or taking things on usury, i, e. unlawful interest : Uncharitable or unprofitable conversation ; particularly speaking evil of magistrates or of ministers. Doing to others as we would not they should do unto us ; Doing what we know is not for the glory of God ; as, The putting, on of gold or costly apparel : The taking such diversions as cannot be used in the name of the Lord Jesus : The singing those songs, or reading those books, that do not tend to the knowledge or love of God : Softness, and needless self-indulgence : Laying up treasure on earth ; Borrowing without a probability of paying ; or, taking up goods without a.probability of paying for them. 5. It is expected of all, who continue in these societies, that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation, Secondly, By doing good, by being in every kind merciful after their power, as they have opportunity : doing good of every possible sort, and as far as possible to all men ; To their bodies, of the ability that God giveth, by giving food to the hungry, by clothing the naked, by visiting or helping them that are sick or in prison : ' To their souls, by instructing, reproving, or exhorting all we have any intercourse with : trampling under foot that enthusiastic doc trine of devils, that, " We are not to do good unless our hearts be free to it :" ' GENERAL RULES, &C. 347 By doing good, especially to them that are of the household of faith, or groaning so to be : employing them preferably to others ; buying one of another ; helping each other in business : and so much tbe more, because the world will love its own, and them only: By all possible diligence and frugality, that the gospel be not blamed : By running with patience the race that is set before them, deny- in"1, themselves, and taking up their cross daily; submitting to bear the reproach of Christ ; to be as the filth and off-scouring of the world; and looking that men should sav all manner of evil of them falsely for the Lord's sake. 6. It is expected of all who desire to continue in these societies, that they should continue to evidence their desire of salvation : Thirdly, By attending on all the ordinances of God : such are, The public worship of God : The ministry of the word, either read or expounded : The Supper of the Lord : Family and private prayer : ' Searching the Scriptures : and, Fasting or abstinence. 7. These are the general rules of our societies ; all which we are taught of God to observe, even in his written word, the only rule, and the sufficient rule both of our faith and practice. And all these we know his Spirit writes on every truly awakened heart. If there be any among us who observe them not, who habitually break any of them, let it be made known unto them, who watch over that soul, as they must give an account. We will admonish him of the error of his ways : we will bear with him for a season But then, if he repent not, he hath no more place among ns. We have delivered our own souls. J. and C. WESLEY. May 1, 1743. MINUTES LATE CONVERSATIONS BETWEEN THE REV, MESSRS. WESLEYS, AND OTHERS. QONVERSATION THE FIRST. Monday, June 25, 1744. THE following persons being met at the Foundery, John Wesley ; Charles Wesley ; John Hodges, rector of Wenvo ; Henry Piers, vicar of Bexley ; SamuCl Taylor, yicar of Quinton ; and John Meriton ; after some time spent in prayer, the design of our meeting was proposed, namely, to consider, 1 . What to teach ; 2. How to teach ; and, 8. What to do? i.e. How to regulate our doctrine, discipline, and practice. We began with considering the doctrine of justification : the questions relating to which, with the substance of the answers given thereto, were as follows : Q 1 . What is it to be justified ? A. To be pardoned, and received into God's favour, into such a state, that if we continue therein, we shall be finally. saved. Q. 2. Is faith the condition of justification ? A. Yes; for everyone who believeth not, is condemned; and every one who believes, is justified. Q. 3. But must not repentande and works meet for repentance go before this faith ? A. Without doubt : if by repentance you mean conviction of sin; and by works meet foi repentance, obeying God as far as we can, forgiving our brother, leaving off evil, doing, good, and using God's ordinances according to the power we have received. Q. What is faith ? A. Faith in general is, a divine, supernatural elenchos of things notseen, i. e. of past, future, or spiritual things : it is a spiritual sight of God and the things of God. MINUTES, &CC. 349 First, a sinner is convinced by the Holy Ghost, " Christ loved me, and gave himself for me." This is that faith by which he is justified or pardoned, the moment he receives it. Immediately the same Spirit bears witness, " Thou art pardoned : thou hast redemption in his blood." And this is saving faith, whereby the love of God is shed abroad in his heart. Q. 5. Have all Christians this faith? May not a man be justified and not know it ? A. That all true Christians have such a faith as implies an assurance of God's love, appears from Rom. viii. 15; Eph. iv. 32 ; 2 Cor. xiii. 5 ; Heb. viii. 10; 1 John iv. 1 0, v. ! 9 And that no man can be justified and not know it appears farther from the nature of the thing : for faith after repentance is ease after pain, rest after toil, ljght after darkness. It appears also from the immediate, as well as distant fruits thereof. Q, 6 But may not a man go to heaven without it ? A. It does not appear from Holy Writ that a man, who hears the gospel, can, Mark xvi. 16, whatever a heathen may do, Rom. ii. 14. Q. 7. What are the immediate fruits of justifying faith ? A. Peace, joy, love, power over all outward sin, and power to keep down inward sin. Q. 8. Does any one believe, who has not the witness in himself, or any longer than he sees, loves, obeys God ? A. We apprehend not; seeing God being the very essence of faith ; love and obedience the inseparable properties of it. Q; 9. What sins are consistent with justifying faith ? A. No wilful sin. If a believer wilfully sins, he casts away his faith. Neither is it possible he should have justifying faith again, without previously repenting. Q. 10. Must every believer come into a state of doubt or fear, or darkness ? Will he do so, unless by ignorance or unfaithfulness ? Does God otherwise withdraw himself ? A. It is certain, a believer need never again come into condemna tion : it seems, he need not come into a state of doubt or fear, or darkness ; and that, ordinarily at least, he will not, unless by ignorance or unfaithfulness : yet it is true, that the first joy does seldom last long ; that it is commonly followed by doubts and fears ; and that God frequently permits great heaviness before any large manifesta tion of himself. Q 11. Are works necessary to the continuance of faith ? A. Without doubt; for a man may forfeit the free gift of God, either by sins of omission or commission. Q. 12. Can faith be lost but for want of works ? A. It cannot but through disobedience. Q. 13. How is faith made perfect by works ? A. The more we exert our faith the more it is increased. To him that hath shall be given. Q. 14. St. Paul says, Abraham was not justified by works. St. 350 MINUTES, &C. James, he was justified by works. Do they not contradict each other ? A. No : 1. Because they do not speak of the same justification. St. Paul speaks of that justification which was when Abraham was seventy-five years old, above twenty years before Isaac was born. St. James of that justification which was when he offered up Isaac on the altar. Secondly. Because they do not speak of the same works. St. Paul speaking of works that precede faith : St. James of works that spring from it. Q. 1 5. In what sense is Adam's sin imputed to all mankind ? A. In Adam all die, i. e. 1, Our bodies then become mortal. 2, Our souls died, i. e. were disunited from God. And hence, 3, We are all born with a sinful, devilish nature : by reason whereof, 4, We are children of wrath, liable to death eternal, Rom. v. 18 : Eph. ii. 3. Q. 16. In what sense is the rightepusness of Christ imputed to all mankind, or to believers ? A. We do not find it expressly affirmed in Scripture, that God im putes the righteousness of Christ to any : although we do find, that faith is imputed to us for righteousness. That text, " As by one man's disobedience many," that is, all men, " were made sinners ; so, by the obedience of one, many shall be made righteous," we conceive means, by the merits of Christ, all men are cleared from the guilt of Adam's actual sin. We conceive, farther, that through the obedience and death of Christ, 1, The bodies of all men become immortal after the resur rection : 2, Their souls receive a capacity of spiritual life : and, 3, An actual spark or seed thereof: 4, All, believers become children of grace, reconciled to God : and 5, Made partakers of the divine nature. Q. 17. Have we not then, unawares, leaned too much towards Calvinism ? A. We are afraid we have. Q. 18. Have we not also leaned towards Antinomianism ? A. We are afraid we have. Q. 19. What is Antinomianism ? A. The doctrine that makes void the law through faith. Q. 20. What are, the main pillars' hereof ? A. 1 . That Christ abolished the moral law. 2. That therefore Christians are not obliged to observe it. 3. That one branch of Christian liberty, is liberty from obeying the commandments of God. 4. That it is bondage to do a thing, because it is commanded, or forbear it because it is forbidden. 5. That a believer is not obliged to use the ordinances of God, or to do good works. 6. That a preacher ought not to exhort to good works : not un believers, because it is hurtful ; not believers, because it is needless. MINUTES, &C. 351 Q. 21. What was the occasion of St, Paul's writing his epistle to the Galatians ? A The coming of certain men among the Galatians, who taught, " Except ye be circumcised, and keep the law of Moses, ye cannot be saved." Q. 2i. What is his main design therein ? A. To prove, 1, That no man can be justified, or saved, by the works of the law, either moral or ritual : 2. That every believer is justified, by faith in Christ, without the works of the law. Q. 23. What does he mean by "the works of the law?" Gal. ii. 16, &c. A. All works which do not spring from faith in Christ. Q. 24. What by being under the law ? Gal. iii. 23. A. Under the Mosaic dispensation. Q. 25. v\ hat law has Christ abolished ? A. The ritual law of Moses. Q. 26. What is meant by liberty ? Gal. v. 1. A. Liberty, 1, from that law : 2, from sin. On Tuesday Morning, June 26, The doctrine of sanctification was considered ; with regard to which, the questions asked, and the substance of the answers given, were as follows : Q I . What is it to be sanctified ? A. To be renewed in the image of God in righteousness and true holiness. Q. 2 Is faith the condition, or the instrument of sanctification ? A. It is both the condition and instrument of it. When we be gin to believe, then sanctification begins. And, as faith increases, holiness increases, till we are created anew. Q. 3. What is implied in being a perfect Christian? A. The loving the Lord our God with all our heart, and with all our mind, and soul and strength, Deut. vi. 5 xxx. 6.; Ezek. xxxvi. 25—29. Q 4. Does this imply, that all inward sin is f i»54 MINUTES, &.C. sired that ea chperson present would in the afternoon consult tbe scriptures cited therein, and bring what objections might occur the next morning. Friday, August 2, THE QUESTION WAS PROPOSED, Q. 1. Is a sense of God's pardoning love absolutely necessary to our being in his favour : or may there possibly be some exempt cases ? A. We dare not positively say, There are not. Q. 2. Is it necessary to inward and outward holiness ? A. We incline to think it is. Q. 3. Is it indespensably necessary to final salvation ? Suppose in a Papist, or a Quaker, or in general among those who never heard it preached ? A. Love hopeth all things. We know not how far any of these may fall under the case of invincible ignorance. Q. 4. But what can we say of one of our own society who dies without it, as J. W. at London ? A. It may be an exempt case, (if, the fact was really so) but we determine nothing : we leave his soul in the hands of him that made it. Q. 5. Does a man believe any longer than he sees a reconciled God? A. We conceive not : but we allow there' may be infinite degrees in seeing God ; even as many as there are between him who sees the sun, when it shines on his eyelids closed, and him who stands with his eyes wide open in the full blaze of his beams. Q. 6. Does a man believe any longer than he loves God ? A. In nowise : for neither circumcision nor uncireumcision avails without faith working by love. Q. 7. Have we duly considered the case of Cornelius ? Was not he in the favour of God when his prayers and alms came up for a memorial before God ? i. e. before he believed in Christ ? A. It does seem that he was, in some degree. But we speak not of those who have not heard the Gospel. Q. 8. But were those works of his, splendid sins ? A. No : nor were they done without the grace of Christ. Q. 9. How then can we maintain, That all works done before we have a sense of the pardoning love of God, are sin; and as such, an abomination to him ? A. The works of him who has heard the Gospel, and does not believe, are not done as God hath " willed and commanded them to be done." And yet we know not how to say, That they are an abomination to the Lord, in him who feareth God, and, from that principle does the best he can. Q. 10. Seeing there is so much difficulty in this subject, can we deal too tenderly with them that oppose us ? A. We cannot, unless we were to give up any part of the truth of God. Q. 1 1. Is a believer constrained to obev God ' MINUTES, &c. 355 A. At first he often is. The love of Christ constraineth him. After this he may obey, or he may not ; no constraint being laid upon him. Q. 12. Can faith be lost,. but through disobedience ? A. It cannot. A believer first inwardly disobeys, inclines to sin with his heart ; then his intercourse with God is cut off, i. e. his faith is lost : and after this he may fall into outward sin, being now weak and like another man. Q 13. How can such an one recover fahh ? • A. By repenting and doing the first works. Rev. ii. 5. Q. 14. Whence is it that so great a majority of those who be lieve, fall more or less into doubt or fear ? A. Chiefly from their own ignorance or unfaithfulness : often from their not watching unto prayer : perhaps sometimes from some defect or want of the power of God in the preaching they hear. Q 15. Is there not a defect in us ? Qo we preach as we did at first ? Have we not changed our doctrines ? A. 1. At first we preached almost wholly to unbelievers. To those, therefore, we spake almost continually of remission of sins through the death of Christ, and the nature of faith'in his blood: and so we do still among those who need, to be taught the first ele ments of the gospel of Christ : 2. But those in whom the foundation is already laid, we exhort to go on to perfection ; which we did not so clearly see at first, al though we occasionally spoke of it from the beginning. 3. Yet we uowpreach, and that continually, faith in Christ, as the Prophet, Priest, and King, at least as clearly, as strongly, and as fully, as we did six years ago. Q. 16. Do not we discourage visions and dreams too much, as if we condemned them toto genere? A. We do not intend to do this. We neither discourage nor en courage them. We learn from Acts ii 19, &c. to expect some thing of this kind in the last days. And we cannot deny that saving faith is often given in dreams or visions of the night : which faith we count neither better nor worse than if it came by any other means. Q. 17. Do not some of our assistants preach )too much, of the wrath, and too little of the love of God ? A. We fear they have leaned to that extreme, and hence some of their hearers may have lost the joy of faith. Q. 18. Need we ever preach the terrors of the Lord to those who know they are accepted of him ? A. No ; it is folly so to do : for love is to them the strongest of all motives. Q. 19. Do we ordinarily represent a justified state so great and happy as it is ? A. Perhaps not. A believer, walking in the light, is inexpressibly great and happy. Q. 20. Should we not have a care of depreciating justification, in order to exalt the state of full sanctification ? 356 MINUTES» &c. A. Undoubtedly we should beware of this : for one may insensi bly slide into it. Q 21. Ho iv shall we effectually avoid it ? A. When we are going to speak of entire sanctification, let us first describe the blessings of a justified state, as strongly as possi ble. Q 22. Does not the truth of the Gospel lie very near both to Calvinism and Antinomianism ? A. Indeed it does : as it were within a hair's breadth. So that it is altogether foolish and sinful, because we do not quite agree either with one or the other, to run from them as far as ever we can. Q. 23. Wherein may we come to the very edge of Calvinism ? A. In ascribing all good to the free grace of God : 2, In denying all natural free will, and ali power antecedent to grace: and, 3, In excluding all merit from man ; even for what he has or does by the grace of God. Q. 24. Wherein may we come to the edge of Antinomianism ? A. In exalting the merits and love of Christ : 2, In rejoicing evermore. Q. 25. Does faith supersede (set aside the necessity of) holiness or good works ? A In nowise. So far from it that it implies both, as a cause doth its effects. About ten we began to speak of sanctification -: with regard to which it was inquired, , Q. 1 . When does inward sanctification begin ? A. In the moment we are justified. The seed of every virtue is then sown in the soul. From that time the believer gradually dies to sin and grows in grace : yet sin remains in him ; yea, the seed of all sin, till he is sanctified throughout, in spirit, soul, and body. Q. 2. What will become of a Heathen, a Papist, a Church of England man, if he die without being thus sanctified ? A. He cannot see the Lord. But none who seeks him sincerely shall or can die without it, though he may not attain it till the very article of death. Q. 3. Is it ordinarily given till a little before death ? A. It is not, to those that expect it no sooner, nor consequently ask for it, at least, not in faith. Q 4. But ought we to expect it sooner ? A. Why not? For, although we grant, 1, That the generality of believers, whom we have hitherto known, were not so sanctified till near death : 2, That few of those, to whom St. Paul wrote his epistles, were so at the time he wrote : 3, Nor he himself at the time of writing his former epistles : yet this does not prove that we may not to-day, Q. 5. But, would not one, who was thus sanctified, be incapahif of worldly business ? MINUTES, &C. 357 A. He would be far more capable of it than ever, as going through all without distraction. Q. 6. Would he be capable of marriage ? A. Why should he not ? Q. 7 Should we not beware of beai ing hard on those who think they have attained ? A. We should. And the rather, because, if they are faithful to the grace they have received, they are in no danger of perishing at last : no, not even if they remained in luminous faith, as some term it, for many months or years , perhaps till within a little time of their spirits returning to God. Q. 8. In what manner should we preach entire sanctification ? A. Scarcely at all to those who are not prosing forward. To those who are always by way of promise : always drawing, rather than driving. Q. 9. .How shall we wait for the fulfilling of this promise ? A. In universal obedience : in keeping all the commandments ; in denying ourselves, and taking up our cross daily. These are the general means which God hath ordained for our receiving his sanc tifying grace : the particular are, prayer, searching the Scripture, communicating, and fasting. CONVERSATION THE THIRD. Tuesday, May 13, 1746. The following persons being met at the New Room, in Bristol ; John Wesley, Charles Wesley, John Hodges, Jonathan Reeves, Thomas Maxfield, Thomas Westell, and Thomas Willis, it was inquired : Q 1. Can an unbeliever, whatever he be in other respects, challenge any thing of God's justice ? A. Absolutely nothing but hell. And this is a point which we cannot too much insist on. Q. 2. Do we empty men of their own righteousness as we did at first? Do we sufficiently labour, when they begin to be convinced of sin, to take away all they lean upon ? Should we not then en deavour, with all our might, to overturn their false foundations ? A. This was at first one of our principal points ; and it ought to be so still : for, till all other foundations are overturned, they cannot build upon Christ. Q. 3. Did we not then purposely throw them into convictions ? Into strong sorrow and fear ? IS ay, did we not strive to make them inconsolable? Refusing to be comforted ! ( A. We did. And so we should do still ; for the stronger the conviction, the speedier is the deliverance. And none so soon re ceive the peace of God as those who steadily refuse all other comfort, Q. 4. Let us consider a particular case. Were you, Jonathan J. R Q 0 J. R Q 6 J. R Q. 7, J. R o5o MINUTES, &C. Reeves, before you received the peace of God, convinced, that, notwithstanding all you did, or could do, you were in a state of damnation ! I was convinced of it, as fully as that I am now alive. Are you sure that conviction was from God ? I can have no doubt but it was. Whaf do you mean by a state of damnation ? A state, wherein if a man die, he perisheth tor ever. How did that conviction end ? I had first a strong hope that God would deliver me : and this brought a decree of peace. But I had not that solid peace of God, till Christ was revealed in me Q. 8. But is not such a trust in the love of God, though it be as yet without a distinct si"ht ol God, reconciled to me through Christ Jesus, a low degree of justifying faith ? A. It is an earnest of it But this abides 'for a short time only : nor is this the proper Christian taith ? Q. 9. By what faith were the apostles clean, before Christ died ? A. By such a faith as this : by a Jewish faith : for "the Holy- Ghost was not then given." Q 10. Of whom then do you understand those words, Isaiah I. 10, " Who is there among you that feareth the Lord ? That obeyeth the voice of his servant; that walketh in .darkness, and hath no light ?" A. Of a believer under the Jewish dispensation : one, in whose heart God hath not yet shined, to give him the light of the glorious love of God, in the face of Jesus Christ. Q. 1 1 Whu is a Jew inwardly ? A A servant of God : one who sincerely obeys him out of fear : whereas a Christian (inwardly ^ is a child of God; one who sincerely obeys him oat of love. But were not you sincere before Christ was reveal d in you? J. R. It seemed to me that I was, in some measure. Q. 12. What is sincerity ? A. Willingness to know and do the whole will of God The lowest species thereof seem to be faithfulness in that which is little. Q 13. Has God any regard to man's sincerity ? A. So far, that no man in any state can possibly please God with out it : neither indeed in any moment wherein he is not sincere. Q. 14 But can it be conceived that God has any regard to the sinceri;y of an unbeliever ? A. Yes, so much, that if he persevere therein, God will infallibly give him faith. Q. 15 What regard may we conceive him to have, to the sin cerity of a believer ? , A So much, that in every sincere believer he fulfils all the great and precious promises Q. 16. Whom do you term a sincere believer7 MINUTES, &C. 359 A. One that walks in the light, as Godds in the light. Q. 17. Is sincerity Ihe same With a single eye ? A. Not altogether. The latter refers to our intention, the former to our will or desires. Q. 18. Is it not all in all? > A. All will follow persevering sincerity. God gives every thing with it; nothing wjthout it. Q. 19. Are not then sincerity and faith equivalent terms ? A. By no means. It is, at least, as nearly related to works as it is to faith. For example ; who is sincere before he believes ? He that then does all he can: he that,- according to the power he has received, brings forth "fruits meet for repentance." Who is' sin cere after he believes : he that, from a sense of God's love, is zeal ous of all good works. Q. 20. Is not sincerity, what St. Paul terms a willing mind ? virpofy/ju*'* 2 Cor. viii. 12. A. Yes : if that word be taken in a general sense. For it is a constant disposition to use all the grace given. Q. 21 1 But do we not then set sincerity on a level of faith? A. No : for we allow a man may be sincere, and not be justified ; as he may be penitent, and not be justified, (not as yet :) but he can not have faith, and not be justified. The very moment he believes, he is justified. Q. 22. But do we not give up faith, and put sincerity in its place, as the condition of our acceptance with God ? A. We believe it is one condition of our acceptance, as repent ance likewise is.- And we believe it is a condition of oUr continuing in a state of acceptance : yet we do not put it in the place of faith. It is by faith the merits of Christ are applied to my soul : but if I, am not sincere, they are not applied. Q. 23. Is not this that "going about to establish your own righteousness," whereof St. Paul speaks, Rom. x. 4 ? A. St. Paul there manifestly speaks of unbelievers, who sought to be accepted for the sake Of their own righteousness. We do not seek to be accepted for the sake of our sincerity, but through the merits of Christ alone. Indeed, so long as any man believes, he cannot go about, in St. Paul's sense, to " establish his own righteousness." Q. 24,. But do you consider that we are under the covenant of grace ; and that the covenant of works is now abolished? A. All mankind were under the covenant of grace, from the very hour that the original promise was made. If by the covenant of works you mean, that of unsinning obedience made with Adam be fore the Fall : no man, but Adam, was ever under that covenant; for it was abolished before Cain was born : yet,, it is not so abolish ed, but that it will stand, in a measure, even to the end of the world, i. e. if we do this, we shalllive ; if not, we shall die.' eternally : if we do well, we shall live with God ift glory : if evil, we shall die the Vol. 4— Ww 36U MINUTES, iCC. second death ; for every, man shall be judged in that day, and re warded "according to his works." Q. 25. What means then, " To him that believeth, his faith is counted for righteousness ?" A. That God forgives him that is unrighteous as soon as he be lieves, accepting his faith instead of perfect righteousness. But then, observe, universal righteousness follows, though it did not pre cede faith. Q 26. But is faith thus " counted to. us for righteousness," at whatsoever time we believe ? A. Yes. In whatever moment we believe, all our past sins vanish away. They are as though,' they had never been, and we stand clear in the sight of God. Tuesday, 10 o'clock. Mr. Taylor, of Quinton, and T. Glascot, being added, it was in quired : Q. 1. Are not the assurance of faith, the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, and the revelation of Christ in us,, terms nearly of the same import ? A. He that denies one of them, must deny all : they are so closely connected together. Q. 2. Are they ordinarily, where the pure gospel is preached, essential to our acceptance ? A. Undoubtedly they are ; and as such, to be insisted on, in the strongest terms. Q. 3. Is not the whole dispute of salvation by faith, or by works, a mere strife of words ? A. In asserting salvation by faith, we mean this : 1, That pardon (salvation begun) is received by faith, producing works': 2, That holiness (salvation continued) is faith working by love : 3, That heaven (salvation finished) is the reward of this faith. If you, who assert salvation by works, or by faith arid works, mean the same thing, (understanding by faith, the revelation of Christ in us, by salvation, pardon, holiness, glory,) we will not strive with you at all : if you do not, this is not a strife of words : but the very vitals, the essence of Christianity is the thing in question. Q. 4. Wherein does our doctrine now differ from that we preached when at Oxford ? A. Chiefly in these two points : 1, We then knew nothing of that righteousness of faith, in justification : nor, 2, Of the nature of faith itself, as implying consciousness of pardon. Q. 5. May not some degree of the love of God go before a dis tinct sense of justification ? A. We believe it may. Q. 6. Can any degree of sanctification or holiness ? A. Many degrees of outward holiness may ; yea, and some degree MINUTES, .SCC. 3Gt of meekness, and several other tempers which would be branches of Christian holiness, but" that they do not spring from Christian principles ; for the abiding love of God cannot spring, but from faith in a pardoning God : and no true Christian holiness can exist, without that love of God for its foundation. Q. 7. Is every man, as soon as he believes, a new creature, sanc tified, pure in heart ? Has he then a new. heart? Does Christ dwell therein ? And is he a temple of the Holy Ghost ? A. All these things may be affirmed of every believer, in a true sense. Let us not therefore contradict those who maintain it. Why should we contend about words ? CONVERSATION THE FOURTH. Tuesday, June 16, -1747- The following persons being met at the Foundery : John Wes ley ; Charles Wesley; and Charles Manning, vicar of Hayes;' Richard Thomas Bateman, rector of St Bartholomew's the Great; Henry Piers ; Howell Harris ; and Thomas Hardwick ; it was in quired, Q. 1. Is justifying. faith, a divine assurance, that Christ loved me. and gave himself for me ? A. We believe it is. Q, 2, What is the judgment of most of the serious Dissenters concerning this? », A. They generally allow, that many believers have such an as surance : and, ' That it is to be desired and prayed for^hy all : ' But then they affirm, That this is the highest species,' or degree of faith : That it is not the common privilege of believers : consequently, they deny that this is justifying faith, or necessarily implied therein. Q. 3. And are there not strong reasons for their opinions ? For instance : if the true believers of old had not this assurance, then it is not necessarily implied in justifying faith :- But the tree believers of old had not this assurance. A. David, and many more of the believers of old, undeniably had this assurance : but even if the Jews had it not, it would not follow, that this is nofimplied in Christian faith. Q. 4. But do you not know that the apostles themselves had it not till after the day of Pentecost ? A. The apostles themselves had not the proper Christian faith till after the day of Pentecost. Q. 5. But were not those Christian believers, in the proper sense, to whom St. John wrote his first epistle ? Yet to these he says, '• These things have I written unto you' that believe on the name of 362 MINUTES, &c. the Son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of Gpd," v. 13- A. This does not prove, that they did not know they had eternal life, any more than that they did not believe. His plain meaning is, " I have written unto you, that you may be the more established in the faith." Therefore it does not follow from hence, that they had not this assurance, but only that there are degrees therein. Q. C. But were not the Thessalonians true believers ? Yet they had not this assurance ; they had only a good hope, 2 Thess. ii 1 6. A The text you refer to, runs thus . " Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and given us everlasting consolation and good hope, through grace : comfort your hear.'s, and establish you in every good word and work." This good hope does not exclude, but necessarily implies a strong assurance of the love of God. Q. 7. But does not St. Paul say, even of himself, " I know no thing by myself, yet am I not hereby justified," 1 Cor. iv. 4. A. He does not say of himself here, that he was not justified ; or, that he did not know it ; but only, that though he had a con science void of offence, yet this did not justify him before God. And must not every believer say the same ? This therefore is wide of the point. Q. 8. But does he not disclaim any such assurance in those words, " I was with you in weakness and in fear, and in much trembling," 1 Cor. ii. 3. A. By no means. For these words do not imply any fear, either of death or hell : they express only a deep sense of his utter insuf ficiency for the great work wherein he was engaged. Q. 9. However, does he not exclude Christians in general from such an assurance, when he bids them " work out their salvation with fear and trembling," Phil. ii. 12. A. No more than from love ; which is always joined with filial fear and reverential trembling. And the same answer is applicable to all those texts which exhort a believer to fear. Q. 10. But does not matter of fact prove, that justifying faith does not necessarily imply assurance ? For can you believe that such persons as J. A., and E. V., who have so much integrity, zeal, and fear of God, and walk so unblamably in all things, are void of justi fying faith ? Can you suppose such as these to be under the wrath, and under the curse of God ? Especially, if you add to this, that they are continually longing, striving, praying for the assurance which they have not ? A. This contains the very strength of the cause ; and inclines us to think, that some of these may be exempt cases : but however that be, we answer, 1 . It is dangerous to ground a general doctrine on a few particu lar experiments : 2. Men may have many good tempers, and a blameless life, (speak- MINUTES, &.C. 363 ing in a loose sense?) by nature and habit, with preventing grace ; and yet not have faith and the love of God 3. It is scarcely possible for us to know all the circumstances, re lating to such persons, so as to judge certainly concerning them. 4. But this we know, if Christ be not revealed in them, they are not yet Christian believers. Q. 1 1 . But what will become of them then, suppose they die in this state ? A. That is a supposition not to be made. They cannot die iu this state : they must go backward or forward. If they continue to seek, they will surely rind righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. We are confirmed in this belief, by the, many instances we have seen; of such as these finding peace at the last hour. And it is not impossible, but others may then be made partakers of like precious faith, and yet go hence, without giving any outward proof of the change which God had wrought.* CONVERSATION THE FIFTH. Wednesday, 17. Q. 1 . How much is allowed by our brethren who differ from us, with regard to entire sanctification ? A. They grant, 1, That every one must be entirely sanctified, in the article of death : 2. That till then, a believer daily grows in grace, comes. nearer and nearer to perfection : 3. That we ought to be continually pressing after this,, and to ex hort all others so to do. Q. 2. What do we allow them ? , A. We grant, 1, That many of those who have died in the faith, yea, the greater part of those we have known, were not sanctified throughout ; not made perfect in love till a little before death. 2. That the term sanctified, is continually applied by St. Paul to all that were justified, were true believers : 3. That by this term alone, he rarely, if ever, means, saved from all sin : - ¦ • 4. That consequently, it is not proper to use it iii this sense, with out adding the words, " wholly^ entirely," or the like. 5. , That the inspired writers almost continually speak of or to those who were justified ; but very rarely, either of or to those who were wholly sanctified : 6. That consequently, it behooves us tospeak in public almost con tinually of the state of justification ; but more rarely, in full and ex plicit terms, concerning entire sanctification. Q. 3. What then is the point wherein we divide ? A. It is this : Whether we should expect to be sayed from all sin, before the article of death ? Q. 4. Is there any clear Scripture promise of this, that God will save'us from all sin? 364 MINUTES, &c. A. There is. Psalm cxxx. 8, He shall redeem Israel from all his sins. This is more largely expressed in the prophecy of Ezekiel : "Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean ; from Q. 14. May a relapser into gross sin, confessing his fault, be re admitted into the society ? A. Not as a member, till after three months : but he may be permitted to stay as a stranger. Q. 15. How may leaders of classes be made more useful ? A. 1. Let each of them be diligently examined, concerning his method of meeting a class. 2. Let us recommend to all, the following directions : 1. Let each leader carefully inquire, how every soul in, his class prospers : Not only how each person observes the outward rules, but how he grows in the knowledge and love of God. 2. Let the leaders converse with all the preachers, as frequently and as freely as possible. 3. Let every leader come into the room on Tuesday, as soon as the service is ended, and then sit down, and commune with God in his heart till the preacher come in, 4. Let no leaders go out till the preacher goes. , 5. Let every leader bring a note of every sick person in his class. Q. 16. Can any thing farther be done, in order to make the meeting of the classes lively and profitable ? A. I. Let the leaders frequently meet each other's classes. 2. Let us observe, which leaders are niost useful to those under their care. And let these meet the other classes as often as possible. 3. Frequently make new leaders. Q. 17 How can we farther assist those under our care ? A- 1. By closely examining them at each visitation : 3rt(J MINUTES, &C. 2. By meeting the married meri and women together, on the first Sunday after the visitation ; the single men and women apart, on the two following. 3. By instructing them at their own houses. What unspeakable need is there of this ! The world say, " The Methodists are no better than other people :" this is not true ; yet it is nearer the truth than we are willing to imagine. For, 1, Personal religion, either toward God or man, is amazingly superficial among us. I can but just touch on a few generals. How little faith is there among us ! How little living in heaven, walking in eternity, dead- ness to every creature ! How much love of the world, desire of pleasure, of ease, of praise, of getting money ! How little brotherly love ! What continual judging one another ! What gossipping, evil-speaking, tale-bearing ! What want of moral honesty ! To instance only in a few particulars : What servants, journeymen, labourers, carpenters, brick-layers, do as they would be done by ? Which of them does as much work as he can? Set him down for a knave that does not. Who does as he would be done by, in buying and selling, particu larly in selling horses ? Write him knave that does not. And the Methodist-knave is the worst of all knaves. 2. Family religion is shamefully wanting, and almost in every branch. And the Methodists, in general, will be little better till we take quite another course with them. For what avails public preaching alone, though we could preach like angels ? I heard Dr. Lupton say, my father, visiting one of his parishion ers, who had never missed going to church for forty years, then lying on his death-bed, asked him, " Thomas, where do you think your soul will go?" "Soul ! soul!" said Thomas: "Yes: do not you know what your soul is ?" " Aye, surely," said he : " Why, it is a little bone in the back, that lives longer than the rest of the body." So much Thomas had learned by constantly hearing sermons, yea, and exceedingly good sermons, for forty years ! We must instruct them from house to house ; till this is done, and that in good earnest, the Methodists will be little better than other people. Can we find a better method of doing this than Mr. Baxter's ? If not, let us adopt it without delay. His whole tract, entitled, Gildas Salvianus, is well worth a careful perusal. A short extract from it I have subjoined. Speaking of this visitation from house to house, he says, page 351 : We shall find many difficulties both in ourselves- and in the people. 1. In ourselves there is much dulness and laziness ; so that there will be much ado to get us to be faithful in the work. 2. We have also a base man-pleasing temper, which makes us let MINUTES, &C. 37 1 men perish, rather than lose their love, and let them gO quietly to hell, lest we should anger them. 3. Some of us have also a foolish bashfulness. We know not how to begin-, or to speak plainly. We blush to speak for Christ, or to contradict the devil, or to save a soul. 4. Our interest stops our mouths, and makes us unfaithful in the work of Christ. 5. But the general hinderance is, weakness Of faith : so our whole motion is weak, because the spring of it is weak. 6. Lastly ; we are unskilful in the work. How few know how to deal with men, so as to get within them, to win upon them, and suit all our discourse to their several conditions and tempers ; to choose the fittest subjects, and follow them with a holy mixture of serious ness, and terror, and love, and meekness, and evangelical allure ments ? And we have as many difficulties to grapple with in our people. 1. Too many of them will be unwilling to be taught, till we conquer their perverseness by the force of reason, and the power of love. 2. And many are so dull, that they will shun being taught for fear of showing their dulness. And, indeed, you will find it extremely hard to make them understand the very plainest points. 3. And it is still harder to fix things on their hearts, without which all our labour is lost. If you have not therefore great seriousness and fervency, what good can you expect ? And when all is done, it is th& Spirit of grace, he alone, who must do the work. 4. And when we have made some impressions upon their hearts, if we look not after them, they will soon die away. But, as great as this labour of private instruction is, it is absolutely necessary. For, after all our preaching, many of our people are almost as ignorant as if they had never heard the gospel. I study to speak as plainly as I can ; yet 1 frequently meet with those who have been my hearers for many years, who know not, whether Christ be God or man ; or, that infants have any original sin. And how few are there that know the nature of repentance, faith, and holi ness ! Most of them have a sort of confidence that Christ will justify and save them, while the world has their hearts, and they live to themselves. And I have found, by experience, that one of these has learned more from an hour's close discourse than from ten years public preaching. And, undoubtedly, this private application is implied in those solemn words of the apostle ; " I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing, preach the word, be instant in season, out of season ; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and doctrine." This is likewise necessary to the greater glory of God, by the fuller success of the gospel. '¦ O brethren, if we could generally set this work on foot in our societies, and prosecute it skilfully and zealously, what glory would redound to God thereby ! If the com- 372 MINUTES, &c. mon ignorance were thus banished, and our vanity and idleness turned into the study of the way of life ; and every shop and every house busied in speaking of the word and works of God : surely God would dwell in our habitations, and make them his delight. And this is necessary to the welfare of our people, many of whom neither believe nor repent to this day. Look round about, and see, how many of them are still in apparent danger of damnation ! And how can you walk, and talk, and be merry with such people, when you know their case ? Methinks, when you look them in the face, you should break forth into tears, as the prophet did when he looked upon Hazael, and then set on them with the most vehement and im portunate exhortations. O then, for God's sake, and forthe sake of poor souls, bestir yourselves, and spare no pains that may con duce to their salvation. What cause have we to bleed before the Lord this day, that have so long neglected this great and good work ! That have been preachers so many years, and have done so little by personal in struction for the saving of men's souls ! If we had but set on this work sooner, how many more might have been brought to Christ ! And how much holier and happier might we have made our societies before now ! And why might we not have done it sooner ? There were many hinderances in the way : and so there are still, and always will be : but the greatest hinderance was in ourselves, in our dulness and littleness of faith and love O that God would tho roughly humble us, and cause us to bewail our own neglects ; that we may not think it enough to lament the sins of others, while we overlook our own ! But, it is objected, 1, This course will take up so much time, that we shall have no time to follow our studies. I answer, 1, Gaining knowledge is a good thing ; but saving souls is a better : 2, By this very thing you will gain the most excellent knowledge of God and eternity : 3, But you will have abundant time for gaining other knowledge too, if you spend all your morn ings therein. Only sleep not more than you need ; talk not more than you need ; and never be idle, nor triflingly employed : but, 4, Jf you can do but one, either follow your studies, or instruct the ignorant ; let your studies alone : I would throw by all the libraries in the world, rather than be guilty of the perdition of one soul. It is objected, 2. " The people will not submit to it." If some do not, others will gladly : and the success with them may be so much as to repay all our labour. O let us herein follow the example of St Paul. 1, For our general business, "Serving the Lord with all humility of mind :" -I, Our special work, " Take heed to yourselves, and to all the flock :" 3, Our doctrine, " Repentance towards God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ :" 4, The place and manner of teaching, " I have taught you publicly, and from house to house :" 5, The object and internal manner, " 1 ceased not to warn every one, night and day, with tears :" this it is that must win souls and MINUTES, &c. 373 preserve them : 6, His innocency and self-denial for the advantage of the gospel, " I have coveted no man's silver or gojd :" 7, His patience, " Neither count I my life dear unto myself." And among all our motives, these should be ever before our eyes : ,1, " The church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood:" 2, " Grievous wolves shall enter in; yea, of your own- selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things." Write all this upon your hearts, and it will do you more good than twenty years study of lower things. We may, 1, Every preacher, take an exact catalogue of those in society, from one end of each town to the other : 2, Go to each house, and give, with suitable exhortation and direction, the " In structions for Children ;" 3, Be sure to deal gently with them, and take off all discouragements as effectually as you can See that the children get these by heart. Advise the grown persons to see that they understand them : and enlarge upon, and apply every sentence as closely as you can. And let your dealing with those you begin with, be so gentle, winning, and convincing, that the report of it may move others to desire your coming. True, it is far easier to preach a good sermon, than to instruct the ignorant in the principles of religion. And as much as this work is despised by some, I doubt not but it will try the parts and spirits of us all. So Archbisiiop Usher ; " Great scholars may think it beneath them to spend their time in teaching the first principles of the doctrine of Christ." But they should consider, that the laying the foundation skilfully, as it is a matter of the greatest importance in the whole building, so it is the master-piece of the wisest builder : " According to the grace of God, which is given unto me, as a wise master-builder, I have laid the foundation," saith the great apostle. And let the wisest of us all try, whenever we please, we shall find, that, to lay this ground work rightly, to make an " ignorant man understand the grounds of religion, will put us to the trial of our skill." Perhaps, in doing this, it may be well, 1. After a few loving words spoken to all in the house, to take each person singly into another rqom, where you may deal closely with them, about their sin and misery, and duty. Set these home, or you lose all your labour. At least, let none be present but those who are quite familiar with each other. 2. Hear what the children have learned by heart. 3. Choose some of the weightiest points, and try, by farther ques tions, how they understand them. As, "Do you believe y