1747

I called upon poor Mr. C., who once largely “tasted of the good word, and the powers of the world to come.” I found him very loving, and very drunk; as he commonly is, day and night. But I could fix nothing upon him. “He may fall foully, but not finally!”

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In the evening I rode to Brentford; the next day to Newbury; and, Tuesday, 13, to the Devizes. The town was in an uproar from end to end, as if the French were just entering; and abundance of swelling words we heard, oaths, curses, and threatening. The most active man in stirring up the people, we were informed, was Mr. J., the C. He had been indefatigable in the work, going all the day from house to house. He had also been at the pains of setting up an advertisement in the most public places of the town of “An Obnubilative, Pantomime Entertainment, to be exhibited at Mr. Clark’s;” (where I was to preach;) the latter part of it contained a kind of double entendre, which a modest person cannot well repeat. I began preaching at seven, on “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Many of the mob came in, listened a little, and stood still. No one opened his mouth, but attention sat on the face of every hearer.

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I rode on to Bristol, and spent a week in great peace.

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About half-hour after twelve I took horse for Wick, where I had appointed to preach at three. I was riding by the wall through St. Nicholas-gate (my horse having been brought to the house where I dined) just as a cart turned short from St. Nicholas-street, and came swiftly down the hill. There was just room to pass between the wheel of it and the wall; but that space was taken up by the carman. I called to him to go back, or I must ride over him; but the man, as if deaf, walked straight forward. This obliged me to hold back my horse. In the mean time the shaft of the cart came full against his shoulder with such a shock as beat him to the ground. He shot me forward over his head as an arrow out of a bow, where I lay, with my arms and legs, I know not how, stretched out in a line close to the wall. The wheel ran by, close to my side, but only dirtied my clothes. I found no flutter of spirit, but the same composure as if I had been sitting in my study. When the cart was gone, I rose. Abundance of people gathered round, till a gentleman desired me to step into his shop. After cleaning myself a little, I took horse again, and was at Wick by the time appointed.

I returned to Bristol (where the report of my being killed had spread far and wide) time enough to praise God in the great congregation, and to preach on, “Thou, Lord, shalt save both man and beast.” My shoulders, and hands, and side, and both my legs, were a little bruised; my knees something more; my right thigh the most, which made it a little difficult to me to walk; but some warm treacle took away all the pain in an hour; and the lameness in a day or two.

After visiting the little societies in Somersetshire and Wiltshire, on Thursday, 29, I preached at Bearfield in my way, and thence rode on to the Devizes. I found much pains had been taken again to raise a mob; but it was lost labor; all that could be mustered were a few straggling soldiers, and forty or fifty boys. Notwithstanding these, I preached in great peace, on, “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” In the morning, Friday, 30,I explained and applied, “He healeth them that are broken in heart.” We then took horse, in the midst of a quiet civil multitude, and the next afternoon came to London.

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I began examining the classes. Having desired the Leaders, such as had leisure, to give me a short account, in writing, of those under their care, among many others, I received the following note: —

“DEAR SIR,

“I HOPE my class are bending one way. K. T., A. G.,

A. S., M. S., M. R., E. L., and S. S., seem to retain their confidence in the Lord. W. R., L. R., S. R., H. B., I. B., the elder, and A. B., seem to be shut up in a fog, and are not able to get out on any side. They are very dead, and yet very sore. Nothing seems to do them any good, unless it be smooth as oil, and yet sharp as a razor.

“M. S., M. Q., E. E., E. B., M. H., F. B., M. S., J. B., and J. B., the younger, seem to be in earnest, seeking the Lord. J. T., M. H., appear to have a desire, and to be widely seeking something.

“It seems to me, we all want advice that is plain and cutting, awakening and shaking, and hastening us, like that of the angel, ‘Escape for thy life: Look not behind thee; neither tarry thou in all the plain.’ I find the Lord often waking me as with thunder. Yet I find a spirit of stillness and luke warmness to cleave to me like the skin of my flesh. The Lord shows me at times how insensibly it steals upon me; and makes me tremble, because I have not been fearing always. May He give us to feel the true state of our souls! Which, I hope, will ever be the prayer of

“Your unworthy son in the Gospel,

“JOHN HAGUE.”

Ye who loved and profited by this man of God, when he was alive, hear what, “being dead,” he “yet speaketh.”

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My brother returned from the north, and I prepared to supply his place there. Sunday, 15. I was very weak and faint; but on Monday, 16, I rose soon after three, lively and strong, and found all my complaints were fled away like a dream.

I was wondering, the day before, at the mildness of the weather; such as seldom attends me in my journeys. But my wonder now ceased: The wind was turned full north, and blew so exceeding hard and keen, that when we came to Hatfield, neither my companions nor I had much use of our hands or feet. After resting an hour, we bore up again, through the wind and snow, which drove full in our faces. But this was only a squall. In Baldock-field the storm began in earnest. The large hail drove so vehemently in our faces, that we could not see, nor hardly breathe. However, before two o’clock we reached Baldock, where one met and conducted us safe to Potten.

About six I preached to a serious congregation. Tuesday, 17. We set out as soon as it was well light; but it was really hard work to get forward; for the frost would not well bear or break: And the untracked snow covering all the roads, we had much ado to keep our horses on their feet. Meantime the wind rose higher and higher, till it was ready to overturn both man and beast. However, after a short bait at Bugden, we pushed on, and were met in the middle of an open field with so violent a storm of rain and hail, as we had not had before. It drove through our coats, great and small, boots and every thing, and yet froze as it fell, even upon our eyebrows; so that we had scarce either strength or motion left, when we came into our inn at Stilton.

We now gave up our hopes of reaching Grantham, the snow falling faster and faster. However, we took the advantage of a fair blast to set out, and made the best of our way to Stamford-Heath. But here a new difficulty arose, from the snow lying in large dritts. Sometimes horse and man were well-nigh swallowed up. Yet in less than an hour we were brought safe to Stamford. Being willing to get as far as we could, we made but a short stop here; and about sunset came, cold and weary, yet well, to a little town called Brig-Casterton.

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Our servant came up and said, “Sir, there is no traveling today. Such a quantity of snow has fallen in the night, that the roads are quite filled up.” I told him, “At least we can walk twenty miles a day, with our horses in our hands.” So in the name of God we set out. The northeast wind was piercing as a sword, and had driven the snow into such uneven heaps, that the main road was unpassable. However, we kept on, afoot or on horseback, till we came to the White Lion at Grantham. Some from Grimsby had appointed to meet us here; but not hearing any thing of them, (for they were at another house, by mistake,) after an hour’s rest, we set out straight for Epworth. On the road we overtook a Clergyman and his servant; but the toothache quite shut my mouth. We reached Newark about five. Soon after we were set down, another Clergyman came and inquired for our fellow-traveler. It was not long before we engaged in close conversation. He told me, some of our Preachers had frequently preached in his parish; and his judgment was,

1. That their preaching at Hunslet had done some good, but more harm. Because,

2. Those who attended it had only turned from one wickedness to another; they had only exchanged Sabbath-breaking, swearing, or drunkenness, for slandering, backbiting, and evil-speaking; and,

3. Those who did not attend it were provoked hereby to return evil for evil: So that the former were, in effect, no better; the latter worse than before.

The same objection (in substance) has been made in most other parts of England. It therefore deserves a serious answer, which will equally hold in all places. Whether then we speak of Hunslet, Leeds, Bristol, or London, it is allowed,

1. That our preaching has done some good; common swearers, Sabbath-breakers, drunkards, thieves, fornicators, having been reclaimed from those outward sins. But it is affirmed,

2. That it has done more harm; the persons so reclaimed only changing one wickedness for another; and their neighbors being so provoked thereby, as to become worse than they were before.

“Those who have left their outward sins,” you affirm, “have only changed drunkenness or Sabbath-breaking, for backbiting and evil-speaking.” I answer, If you affirm this of them all, it is notoriously false. Many we can name who left cursing, swearing, and backbiting, drunkenness and evil-speaking, all together; and who are to this day just as fearful of slandering, as they are of cursing or swearing. And if some are not yet enough aware of this snare of the devil, we may hope they will he ere long. Meantime, see that you bless God for what He has done; and pray that He would deliver them from this death also.

You affirm, farther, that “their neighbors are provoked hereby to return evil for evil; and so, while the former are no better, the latter are worse, than they were before.”

I answer,

1. These are worse than they were before: But why? Because they do fresh “despite to the Spirit of grace;” because they despise that long-suffering love of God, which would lead them (as it does their neighbors) to repentance. And in laying the blame of this on those who will no longer run with them to the same excess of riot, they only fulfill the Scriptures, and fill up the measure of their own iniquity. I answer,

2. There is still no proportion at all between the good on the one hand, and the harm on the other: For they who reject the goodness of God were servants of the devil before, and they are but servants of the devil still. But they who accept it, are brought from the power of Satan to serve the living and true God.

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The frost was not so sharp, so that we had little difficulty till we came to Haxey-Car; but here the ice which covered the dykes, and great part of the Common, would not bear, nor readily break; nor did we know (there being no track of man or beast) what parts of the dykes were fordable. However, we committed ourselves to God, and went on. We hit all our fords exactly; and, without any fall, or considerable hindrance, came to Epworth in two hours, full as well as when we left London.

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I preached at five and at eight in the Room; after Evening Prayers, at the cross. I suppose most of the grown people in the town were present. A poor drunkard made a noise for some time, till Mr. Maw (the chief gentleman of the town) took him in hand and quieted him at once.

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Leaving Mr. Meyrick here, I set out with Mr. Larwood and a friend from Grimsby. At two I preached at Laseby in the way, to a quiet and serious congregation. We reached Grimsby by five, and spoke to as many of the society as could conveniently come at that time. About seven I would have preached to a very large audience, but a young gentleman, with his companions, quite drowned my voice, till a poor woman took up the cause, and, by reciting a few passages of his life, wittily and keenly enough turned the laugh of all his companions full upon him. He could not stand it; but hastened away. When he was gone, I went on with little interruption.

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I wrote a few lines to Mr. C., giving him an account of his kinsman’s behavior. He obliged him to come straight to me and ask my pardon. Since that time we have had no disturbance at Grimsby. At noon I examined the little society at Tetney. I have not seen such another in England. In the class-paper (which gives an account of the contribution for the poor) I observed one gave eight-pence, often ten-pence, a week; another thirteen, fifteen, or eighteen-pence; another, sometimes one, sometimes two shillings. I asked Micah Elmoor, the Leader, (an Israelite indeed, who now rests from his labor,) “How is this? Are you the richest society in all England?” He answered, “I suppose not: But all of us who are single persons have agreed together, to give both ourselves and all we have to God: And we do it gladly; whereby we are able, from time to time, to entertain all the strangers that come to Tetney; who often have no food to eat, nor any friend to give them a lodging.” We came to Hainton soon after sunset. I never before saw so large a congregation here. I declared to them all, (Protestants and Papists,) “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ;” and they seemed to be, indeed, (as Homer says,) epea pteroenta, “winged words,” that flew as arrows from the hand of the Most High, to the heart of every hearer.

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I had designed to go straight for Epworth, but W. Fenwick begged I would call on the little flock at Tealby. Mr. B., (he said,) the Minister of the place, had preached against them with the utmost bitterness, had repelled them from the Lord’s table, and zealously endeavored to stir up the whole town against them. I called there about seven, and began to talk with two or three that were in the house where we alighted. Presently the house was full from end to end. I stood up and declared, “By grace are ye saved through faith.” Even at Hainton I did not find such a blessing as here. Surely this day was the Scripture fulfilled, “If ye be reproached for the sake of Christ, happy are ye: For the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you.”

About two in the afternoon I preached at Ferry, and in the evening at Epworth. Thursday, 26. I left them all in peace and love, and rode to Sykehouse, where William Shent met me, and one from Acomb. I preached at three and at seven; and we were not a little comforted.

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Honest muddy M. B. conducted me to his house at Acomb. I now found out (which I could not comprehend before) what was the matter with him. He, and one or two more, since I saw them last, had been studying the profound Jacob Behmen. The event was, (as might easily have been foreseen,) he had utterly confounded their intellects, and filled them so full of sublime speculations that they had left Scripture and common sense far behind.

I preached, at seven, on, “Repent ye, and believe the Gospel.” The congregation, many of whom came from York, was surprisingly quiet. Though I used the utmost plainness of speech, several of York came again at five in the morning. After preaching, I spoke with a few who were desirous to join heart and hand together in seeking the kingdom of God.

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I called at Shipton, on Mr. C., the Minister of Acomb, who had desired to see me; and, after half an hour both agreeably and usefully spent, rode on to Thirsk.

Here I rejoiced with T. Brooke and his wife, lights shining in a dark place. God has lately added to them a third; one formerly famous for all manner of wickedness, who was cut to the heart while Mr. Brooke was talking to him, and went down to his house justified. This had struck the whole town; so that when I went down, about five, to preach in a vacant house, it was quickly filled within and without, the Justice being one of the congregation. In the morning, about six, I preached again to a congregation more numerous than before; nor did any man open his mouth, either at the time of preaching, or while I walked through the town; unless it were to bid me God-speed, or to inquire when I would come again.

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I came to Osmotherley about ten o’clock, just as the Minister (who lives some miles off) came into town. I sent my service to him, and told him, if he pleased, I would assist him, either by reading Prayers or preaching. On receiving the message, he came to me immediately; and said, he would willingly accept of my assistance. As we walked to church he said, “Perhaps it would fatigue you too much, to read Prayers and preach too.” I told him, no; I would choose it, if he pleased; which I did accordingly. After service was ended, Mr. D. said, “Sir, I am sorry I have not an house here to entertain you. Pray let me know whenever you come this way.” Several asking, where I would preach in the afternoon, one went to Mr. D. again, and asked, if he was willing I should preach in the church. He said, “Yes, whenever Mr. Wesley pleases.” We had a large congregation at three o’clock. Those who in time past had been the most bitter gainsayers, seemed now to be melted into love. All were convinced we are no Papists. How wisely does God order all things in their season!

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I rode to Newcastle. The next day, I met the Stewards, men who have approved themselves in all things. They are of one heart and of one mind. I found all in the house of the same spirit; pouring out their souls to God many times in a day together, and breathing nothing but love and brotherly kindness.

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(Being Ash-Wednesday.) I spent some hours in reading “The Exhortations of Ephrem Syrus.” Surely never did any man, since David, give us such a picture of a broken and contrite heart. This week I read over with some young men a Compendium of Rhetoric, and a System of Ethics. I see not, why a man of tolerable understanding may not learn in six months’ time more of solid philosophy than is commonly learned at Oxford in four (perhaps seven) years.

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I preached at Gateshead, and declared the loving-kindness of the Lord. In the evening, observing abundance of strangers at the Room, I changed my voice, and applied those terrible words, “I have overthrown some of you as I overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah, and the rest of you were as brands plucked out of the burning; yet have ye not turned unto me, saith the Lord.”

On Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, I examined the classes. I had been often told, it was impossible for me to distinguish the precious from the vile, without the miraculous discernment of spirits. But I now saw, more clearly than ever, that this might be done, and without much difficulty, supposing only two things: First, Courage and steadiness in the examiner. Secondly, Common sense and common honesty in the Leader of each class. I visit, for instance, the class in the Close, of which Robert Peacock is Leader. I ask, “Does this and this person in your class live in drunkenness or any outward sin? Does he go to church, and use the other means of grace? Does he meet you as often as he has opportunity?” Now, if Robert Peacock has common sense, he can answer these questions truly; and if he has common honesty, he will. And if not, some other in the class has both, and can and will answer for him. Where is the difficulty then of finding out if there be any disorderly walker in this class, and, consequently, in any other? The question is not concerning the heart, but the life. And the general tenor of this, I do not say cannot be known, but cannot be hid without a miracle.

Where then is the need of any miraculous discernment in order to purge one of those societies? Nay, where is the use of it? For if I had that discernment, I am to pass sentence only ew allegatis et probatis;¹ not according to what I miraculously discern, but according to what is proved in the face of the sun.

The society, which the first year consisted of above eight hundred members, is now reduced to four hundred. But, according to the old proverb, the half is more than the whole. We shall not be ashamed of any of these, when we speak with our enemies in the gate.

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I found Mr. P. and I almost discouraged at the doctrine of absolute and connotative nouns. I wonder any one has patience to learn Logic, but those who do it on a principle of conscience; unless he learns it as three in four of the young gentlemen in the Universities do: That is, goes about it and about it, without understanding one word of the matter. In some of the following days I snatched a few hours to read “The History of the Puritans.” I stand in amaze: First, at the execrable spirit of persecution, which drove those venerable men out of the Church, and with which Queen Elizabeth’s Clergy were as deeply tinctured as ever Queen Mary’s were. Secondly, at the weakness of those holy Confessors, many of whom spent so much of their time and strength in disputing about surplices and hoods, or kneeling at the Lord’s Supper.

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I considered, “What would I do now, if I was sure I had but two days to live?” All outward things are settled to my wish; the Houses at Bristol, Kingswood, and Newcastle are safe; the deeds whereby they are conveyed to the Trustees took place on the 5th instant; my Will is made; what have I more to do, but to commend my soul to my merciful and faithful Creator?

Some days I spent in every week, in examining the societies round Newcastle. And great cause I found to rejoice over them.

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I rode to Blanchland, about twenty miles from Newcastle. The rough mountains round about were still white with snow. In the midst of them is a small winding valley, through which the Derwent runs. On the edge of this the little town stands, which is indeed little more than a heap of ruins. There seems to have been a large cathedral church, by the vast walls which still remain. I stood in the church-yard, under one side of the building, upon a large tombstone, round which, while I was at prayers, all the congregation kneeled down on the grass. They were gathered out of the lead-mines from all parts; many from Allandale, six miles off. A row of little children sat under the opposite wall, all quiet and still. The whole congregation drank in every word with such earnestness in their looks, I could not but hope that God will make this wilderness sing for joy. In the evening I came back to Newlands, where also John Brown has gathered a society. O, what may not a man of small natural talents do, if he be full of faith and love!

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After preaching at South-Biddick, at five, I hastened to Sunderland, where I preached at eight, and again at two, in the main street, to a Kennington-Common congregation. I admire the spirit of this people. From the first day I preached here to this hour, I have not seen a man behave indecently. Those who did not approve, quietly went away.

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I had leisure to reflect on the strange case of Francis Coxon, who was at first the grand support of the society at Biddick. But after a time he grew weary of well-doing; complaining that it took up too much of his time. He then began to search after curious knowledge, and to converse with those who were like-minded. The world observed it, and courted his company again. Now he was not so precise; his school was filled with children; money flowed in, and he said, “Soul, take thy ease for many years.” He came to Newcastle with John Reah the Saturday after I came; but had no leisure to call upon me. At night they set out homeward. He was walking a little before his companion, about three miles from Newcastle, in a way he knew as well as his own house floor, when John heard him fall, and asked, “What is the matter?” He answered, “God has overtaken me: I am fallen into the quarry, and have broke my leg.” John ran to some houses that were near, and, having procured help, carried him thither. Thence he was removed to another house, and a Surgeon sent for, who came immediately. He soon recovered his spirits, and asked how long it would be, before he could be in his school again. And on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, was full of the world, nor was God in all his thoughts. On Wednesday, the Surgeon told him honestly, he thought he could not live. Then he awoke out of sleep. The snares of death came about him, the pains of hell overtook him. He continued all Thursday and Friday in the lowest pit, in a place of darkness and in the deep; warning all to beware of drawing back unto perdition, and calling upon God with strong cries and tears. On Sunday he found a little dawning of hope; this gradually increased all the day. On Monday, he knew God had healed his backsliding, and sorrow and sighing fled away. He continued all day in fervent prayer, mingled with praise and strong thanksgiving. “This night,” said he, “will be a glorious night to me; my warfare is accomplished; my sin is pardoned.” Then he broke out again into vehement prayer. About eight he left off speaking; and soon after, without any struggle or groan, gave up his soul to God.

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I rode to Winlinton-Mills, a place famous above many, and called the rebels to lay down their arms, and be reconciled to God through his Son. I saw neither old nor young that behaved amiss; for the dread of the Lord was upon them.

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We set out early, and about eight went out into the market-place at Hexham. A multitude of people soon ran together, the greater part mad as colts untamed. Many had promised to do mighty things. But the bridle was in their teeth. I cried aloud, “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts.” They felt the sharpness of the two-edged sword, and sunk into seriousness on every side: In so much that I heard not one unkind or uncivil word, till we left them standing, and staring one at another. At one I preached at Horsley; and about five in the evening at Newcastle.

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Having been informed, there were many large collieries three or four miles north or northwest from Durham, I rode to a village called Renton, in the midst of them, and proclaimed, “The Lord God, gracious and merciful.” Abundance of people gave earnest heed to every word which was spoken; kneeled down when I prayed, sung (after their manner) when I sung, and crowded into the house where I went in; crying out, one and all, “A, they were only too long a-coming! Why did they not come sooner?”

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Finding the people about Dent’s Hole were grow dead and cold, I preached there at twelve o’clock; if haply it might please God yet again to breathe on the dry bones, that they might live.

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I found the congregation at Blanchland abundantly increased. I preached in the evening at Spen, and the next day, at noon, to a serious congregation at Winlinton-Mills: A gentleman who had talked of making a disturbance, finding not one man to second him.

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Having settled all the societies in the country, I began examining that of Newcastle again. It was my particular concern, to remove, if possible, every hindrance of brotherly love. And one odd one I found creeping in upon us, which had already occasioned much evil: Namely, a fancy that we must not justify ourselves. (Some of the spawn of Mystic Divinity.) Just contrary to the scriptural injunction, “Be ready to give a reason of the hope that is in you.” For want of doing, this in time, some offenses were now grown incurable. I found it needful, therefore, to tear up this by the roots; to explain this duty from the foundation; and to require all who desired to remain with us to justify themselves, whenever they were blamed unjustly; and not to swallow up both peace and love in their voluntary humility.

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I preached at Biddick at noon; at Pictery, (two miles west of Biddick,) by Mr. M.’s invitation, in the afternoon; and in the evening at Newcastle.

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I preached at Gateshead in the morning; at Swalwell about two; and at the Room in the evening. I scarce ever heard so fine a defense of a weak cause, as was Mr. S.’s sermon in the morning; wherein he labored much to prove the unlawfulness of laymen’s preaching; but with such tenderness and good nature, that I almost wish the sermon were printed, for a pattern to all polemical writers.

April 19. — (Being Easter-day.) I preached in Gateshead for the last time; afterwards at Swalwell, and at Newcastle in the evening. I could gladly have spent six weeks more in these parts; but my time being now expired, I preached my farewell sermon at five. On Monday, 20, a great part of the congregation (which filled the room) were some of the finest people I had ever seen there. Surely God is working a new thing in the earth. Even to the rich is the Gospel preached! And there are, of these also, who have ears to hear, and hearts to receive the truth as it is in Jesus. About nine I preached to a large congregation at Renton, and before six reached Osmotherley. Finding Mr. D. (as I expected) had been vehemently attacked by the neighboring Clergy and Gentry, that he might be exposed to no farther difficulty on my account, I did not claim his promise, but preached on a tombstone near the church, on, “The Lord is risen indeed.” How wisely does God order all things! Some will not hear even the word of God out of a church. For the sake of these we are often permitted to preach in a church. Others will not hear it in a church: For their sakes we are often compelled to preach in the highways.

Here John Nelson met me. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, he had preached at Acomb, and the neighboring places: On Good-Friday, in particular, on Heworth-Moor, to a large and quiet congregation. On Easter-Sunday, at eight, he preached there again, to a large number of serious hearers. Towards the close of his discourse a mob came from York, hired and headed by some (miscalled) gentlemen. They stood still, till an eminent Papist cried out, “Why do not you knock the dog’s brains out?” On which they immediately began throwing all that came to hand, so that the congregation was quickly dispersed. John spoke a few words, and walked towards York. They followed with showers of bricks and stones; one of which struck him on the shoulder, one on the back, and, a little before he came to the city, part of a brick hit him on the back part of the head, and felled him to the ground. When he came to himself, two of Acomb lifted him up, and led him forward between them. The gentlemen followed, throwing as before, till he came to the city gate, near which lived an honest tradesman, who took him by the arm, and pulled him into his house. Some of the rioters swore they would break all his windows, if he did not turn him out. But he told them resolutely, “I will not; and let any of you touch my house at your peril: I shall make you remember it as long as you live.” On this they thought good to retire.

After a Surgeon had dressed the wound in his head, John went softly on to Acomb. About five he went out, in order to preach, and began singing an hymn. Before it was ended, the same gentlemen came in a coach from York, with a numerous attendance. They threw clods and stones so fast on every side, that the congregation soon dispersed. John walked down into a little ground, not far from Thomas Slaton’s house. Two men quickly followed, one of whom swore desperately he would have his life. And he seemed to be in good earnest. He struck him several times, with all his force, on the head and breast; and at length threw him down, and stamped upon him, till he left him for dead. But, by the mercy of God, being carried into an house, he soon came to himself; and after a night’s rest, was so recovered, that he was able to ride to Osmotherley.

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I called at Thirsk; but, finding the town full of holiday folks, drinking, cursing, swearing, and cock-fighting, I did not stop at all, but rode on to Borough-bridge, and in the afternoon to Leeds.

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I spent an hour with Mr. M., and pressed him to make good his assertion, that our preaching had done more harm than good. This he did not choose to pursue; but enlarged on the harm it might occasion in succeeding generations. I cannot see the force of this argument. I dare not neglect the doing certain, present good, for fear of some probable ill consequences in the succeeding century.

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I preached at Morley and Bristol; on Friday, at Bristol and Leeds; on Saturday, at Oulton and Armley.

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I met the Leeds society at five; preached at seven, on, “The Spirit and the Bride say, Come;” and at one, to an unwieldy multitude, several hundreds of whom soon went away, it being impossible for them to hear. Such another congregation I had at Bristol; yet here I believe my voice reached all that were present.

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I preached at Bristol, at Wibsey-Moor, and at Bradford, and regulated the societies.

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One of Pudsey would take no denial; so I promised to preach there at eight o’clock. Coming before the hour, we walked to the new House of the Germans. It stands on the side of a hill, commanding all the vale beneath, and the opposite hill. The front is exceeding grand, though plain, being faced with fine, smooth, white stone. The Germans suppose it will cost, by that time it is finished, about three thousand pounds: It is well if it be not nearer ten. But that is no concern to the English Brethren; for they are told, (and potentially believe,) that all the money will come from beyond sea.

I preached at eight at the place appointed, and thence rode to Dewsbury, where I was to preach at noon. But first I called on the Minister, Mr. Robson; and in an acceptable time. Abundance of little offenses had arisen, and been carefully magnified by those who sought such occasions. But we both spoke our minds without reserve; and the snare was presently broken.

After sermon, Mr. R. having sent a note to desire I would call upon him again, I went and passed such an hour as I have not had since I left London. We did not part without tears. Who knows how great a work God can work in a short time?

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I preached at Hightown at one; and at Bristol in the evening.

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I rode to Keighley. The ten persons I joined here are increased to above an hundred. And above a third of them can rejoice in God, and walk as becomes the Gospel.

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I read prayers and preached in Haworth church to a numerous congregation. In the evening I preached near Skircoat-Green, and baptized Eliz. K., late a Quaker.

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I preached at Halifax, to a civil, senseless congregation; at noon at Gildersome; and in the evening at Armley.

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At one I preached to a vast congregation at Hunslet; and, about five, to a still larger at Bristol, I preached on, “All things are ready; come to the marriage.” And some, I trust, were “compelled to come in.”

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At his earnest request, I began examining those that are called W. D.’s societies. At three I preached at Great Harding; in the evening at Roughlee, where there was a large society. But since the men of smooth tongue broke in upon them, they are every man afraid of his brother; half of them ringing continually in the ears of the rest, “No works, no law, no bondage.” However, we gathered above forty of the scattered sheep, who are still minded to stand in the old paths.

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I preached at Roughlee at five; about eleven at Hinden, and about three at Widdap, a little village in the midst of huge, barren mountains, where also there was a society. But Mr. B. had effectually dispersed them, so that I found but three members left.

We rode thence about five miles to Stonesey-gate, which lies in a far more fruitful country. Here was a larger congregation at six o’clock than I had seen since my leaving Bristol. They filled both the yard and the road to a considerable distance; and many were seated on a long wall adjoining, which, being built of loose stones, in the middle of the sermon, all fell down at once. I never saw, heard, nor read of such a thing before. The whole wall, and the persons sitting upon it, sunk down together, none of them screaming out, and very few altering their posture: And not one was hurt at all; but they appeared sitting at the bottom just as they sat at the top. Nor was there any interruption either of my speaking, or of the attention of the hearers.

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I rode to Shore, four miles south from Stonesey, lying about half way down an huge, steep mountain. Here I preached at twelve to a loving, simple-hearted people. We then climbed up to Todmorden-Edge, the brow of a long chain of mountains, where I called a serious people to “repent and believe the Gospel.”

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We left the mountains, and came down to the fruitful valley of Rosendale. Here I preached to a large congregation of wild men; but it pleased God to hold them in chains. So that even when I had done, none offered any rudeness, but all went quietly away.

We came to Manchester between one and two. I had no thought of preaching here, till I was informed, John Nelson had given public notice, that I would preach at one o’clock. I was now in a great strait. Their house would not contain a tenth part of the people; and how the unbroken spirits of so large a town would endure preaching in the street, I knew not. Besides that, having rode a swift trot for several hours, and in so sultry a day, I was both faint and weary. But after considering, that I was not going a warfare at my own cost, I walked straight to Salford-Cross. A numberless crowd of people partly ran before, partly followed after me. I thought it best not to sing, but, looking round, asked abruptly, “Why do you look as if you had never seen me before? Many of you have seen me in the neighboring church, both preaching and administering the sacrament.” I then began, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near.” None interrupted at all, or made any disturbance, till, as I was drawing to a conclusion, a big man thrust in, with three or four more, and bade them bring out the engine. Our friends desired me to remove into a yard just by, which I did, and concluded in peace. About six we reached Davy-Hulme, five miles from Manchester, where I was much refreshed both in preaching and meeting the society. Their neighbors here used to disturb them much; but a Justice of Peace, who feared God, granting them a warrant for the chief of the rioters, from that time they were in peace.

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I preached at Oldfield-Brow to a much larger congregation, though many of them had been hurt by doubtful disputations. But they now began again to take root downward and bear fruit upward. In the evening I preached at Booth-Bank, among a quiet and loving people; but a famous Anabaptist Teacher, Joseph Pickup by name, had lately occasioned some disturbance among them. He had given them a particular account of a conference he had had with me on the road; what he said, and what I said; and how he had stopped my mouth with the Seventeenth Article. In the morning I told them the plain fact. I had overtook him on the road, and we rode half a bow-shot together, but did not exchange five sentences till we parted.

About noon I preached at Mr. Anderton’s, near Northwich. Several of the gay and rich were there. I continued praying and talking with them till past two: We were then obliged to take horse for Astbury.

Here likewise I found an open door, though many fine people were of the congregation; but they behaved as people fearing God; as seriously as the poor ploughmen.

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I preached at Astbury at five; and at seven proclaimed at Congleton-Cross, Jesus Christ, our “wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.” It rained most of the time that I was speaking; but that did not hinder abundance of people from quietly attending. Between twelve and one I preached near Macclesfield, and in the evening at Woodly-Green.

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I preached at noon about a mile from Ashton, and in the evening at Stayley-Hall. Tuesday, 12. I rode to Bongs, and explained to a serious people the parable of the Prodigal Son. In the evening I exhorted them at Chinley, “earnestly to contend for the faith once delivered to the saints.”

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I preached at noon in the High-Peak, and in the evening at Sheffield. Thursday, 14. I rode to Barley-Hall. As soon as I had done preaching, William Shent told me he was just come from Leeds, where he had left Mr. Perronet in a high fever. I had no time to spare: However, at three in the morning, on Friday, 15, I set out, and between seven and eight came to Leeds. By the blessing of God, he recovered from that hour. Being willing to redeem the time, I preached at noon, and then hastened back to Barley-Hall, where I preached at seven, on, “Glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.”

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I spent an hour or two at Nottingham, and then rode on to Markfield. At eight I preached. The church was pretty well filled, and God gave a blessing with his word.

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Desiring to improve the time we had, I preached at eleven in the morning, and in the evening. Monday, 18. I rode to Wednesbury; and, after two or three days spent there and at Birmingham, on Thursday, 21, came to London.

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I preached at seven in Moorfields to a large and well-behaved congregation. Mr. Bateman desired me to preach a charity sermon at his church, St. Bartholomew the Great, in the afternoon: But it was with much difficulty that I got in; not only the church itself, but all the entrances to it, being so thronged with people ready to tread upon one another. The great noise made me afraid at first, that my labor would be in vain; but that fear was soon over; for all was still, as soon as the service began. I hope God gave us this day a token for good. If he will work, who shall stay his hand?

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I reduced the sixteen Stewards to seven; to whom were given the following instructions: —

“1. You are to be men full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, that you may do all things in a manner acceptable to God.

“2. You are to be present every Tuesday and Thursday morning, in order to transact the temporal affairs of the society.

“3. You are to begin and end every meeting with earnest prayer unto God, for a blessing on all your undertakings.

“4. You are to produce your accounts the first Tuesday in every month, that they may be transcribed into the ledger.

“5. You are to take it in turn, month by month, to be Chairman. The Chairman is to see, that all the rules be punctually observed, and immediately to check him who breaks any of them.

“6. You are to do nothing without the consent of the Minister, either actually had, or reasonably presumed.

“7. You are to consider, whenever you meet, ‘God is here.’ Therefore be deeply serious: Utter no trifling word: Speak as in his presence, and to the glory of his great name.

“8. When any thing is debated, let one at once stand up and speak, the rest giving attention. And let him speak just loud enough to be heard, in love and in the spirit of meekness.

“9. You are continually to pray and endeavor that a holy harmony of soul may in all things subsist among you; that in every step you may ‘keep the unity of the Spirit, in the bond of peace.’ “10.In all debates, you are to watch over your spirits; avoiding, as fire, all clamor and contention; being ‘swift to hear, slow to speak;’ in honor, every man preferring another before himself.

“11.If not cannot relieve, do not grieve, the poor: Give them soft words, if nothing else: Abstain from either sour looks, or harsh words. Let them be glad to come, even though they should go empty away. Put yourself in the place of every poor man; and deal with him as you would God should deal with you.

“These instructions, we whose names are under-written (being the present Stewards of the society at London) do heartily receive, and earnestly desire to conform to. In witness whereof we have set our hands. “N. B. If any Steward shall break any of the preceding rules, after having been thrice admonished by the Chairman, (whereof notice is to be immediately given the Minister,) he is no longer Steward.”

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I appointed to speak with those who had applied to us on a physical account. I found there had been about six hundred in about six months. More than three hundred of these came twice or thrice, and we saw no more of them. About twenty of those who had constantly attended, did not seem to be either better or worse. Above two hundred were sensibly better; and fifty-one thoroughly cured. The entire expense, from the beginning till this time, was about thirty pounds.

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I preached at St. Bartholomew’s again. I admire the behavior of this people; none betrays either lightness or inattention. Surely all the seed sown here will not be lost!

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Our Conference began, and ended on Saturday, 20. The Minutes of all that passed therein were some time after transcribed and published.

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I preached once more at St. Bartholomew’s, on the Gospel for the day, the story of Dives and Lazarus. I was constrained to speak very plain and strong words. But God gave the audience ears to hear; so that they appeared as far from anger on the one hand, as from sleepiness on the other.

After preaching at the chapel in the afternoon, I set out for Brentford with Robert Swindells. The next day we reached Marlborough; where one in the room beneath us was swearing desperately. Mr. Swindells stepped down, and put into his hand the paper entitled, “Swear not at all.” He thanked him, and promised to swear no more. And he did not while he was in the house.

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We took horse at three, breakfasted at Chippenham, and dined at Kingswood; whence I walked to Bristol. About seven I went to the Old Orchard, where were rich and poor, a great multitude. We had a solemn and a joyful hour. Surely these fields are white unto the harvest!

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We rode to Beercrocomb, hoping to reach Tavistock the next day. So we set out at three. The rain began at four. We reached Colestock, dropping wet, before seven. The rain ceased while we were in the house, but began when we took horse, and attended us all the way to Exeter. While we stayed here to dry our clothes, I took the opportunity of writing “A Word to a Freeholder.” Soon after three we set out: But it was near eight before we could reach Oakhampton.

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We came to Tavistock before noon; but it being market-day, I did not preach till five in the evening. The rain began almost as soon as we began singing, and drove many out of the field. After preaching (leaving Mr. Swindells there) I went on for Plymouth-Dock.

Within two miles of Plymouth, one overtook and informed us, that, the night before, all the Dock was in an uproar; and a Constable, endeavoring to keep the peace, was beaten and much hurt. As we were entering the Dock, one met us, and desired we would go the back-way: “For,” said he, “there are thousands of people waiting about Mr. Hide’s door.” We rode up straight into the midst of them. They saluted us with three huzzas; after which I alighted, took several of them by the hand, and began to talk with them. I would gladly have passed an hour among them; and believe, if I had, there had been an end of the riot. But the day being far spent, (for it was past nine o’clock,) I was persuaded to go in. The mob then recovered their spirits, and fought valiantly with the doors and windows: But about ten they were weary, and went every man to his own home.

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I preached at four, and then spoke severally to part of the society. As yet I have found only one person among them who knew the love of God, before my brother came. No wonder the devil was so still; for his goods were in peace.

About six in the evening, I went to the place where I preached the last year. A little before we had ended the hymn, came the Lieutenant, a famous man, with his retinue of soldiers, drummers, and mob. When the drums ceased, a gentleman-barber began to speak: But his voice was quickly drowned in the shouts of the multitude, who grew fiercer and fiercer, as their numbers increased. After waiting about a quarter of an hour, perceiving the violence of the rabble still increasing, I walked down into the thickest of them, and took the captain of the mob by the hand. He immediately said, “Sir, I will see you safe home. Sir, no man shall touch you. Gentlemen, stand off: Give back. I will knock the first man down that touches him.” We walked on in great peace; my conductor every now and then stretching out his neck (he was a very tall man) and looking round, to see if any behaved rudely, till we came to Mr. Hide’s door. We then parted in much love. I stayed in the street near half an hour after he was gone, talking with the people, who had now forgot their anger, and went away in high good humor.

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I preached at five, on the Common, to a well-behaved, earnest congregation; and at eight near the Room, on, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found.” The congregation was much larger than before, and equally serious and attentive. At ten I went to church. Mr. Barlow preached an useful sermon, on, “God be merciful to me a sinner;” and a thundering one in the afternoon, on, “Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.”

At one I preached again near the Room, from those words, in the Gospel for the day, “Come, for all things are ready.” And the hearts of all that were round about seemed to bow down before the Lord. I designed to have preached on Stoke’s Hill at five, but the rain would not permit. However, before six I went to the head of the town, where we had a large and venerable assembly. The fear of God seemed to spread itself over all, and they received what was spoken as the word of God. Yet once more he hath opened the door, that the Gospel may have free course here also.

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I took horse between three and four, and reached Perranwell, three miles beyond Truro, about six. I preached to a very large congregation at seven; and the word was as the rain on the tender herb.

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We came to St. Ives before Morning Prayers, and walked to church without so much as one huzza. How strangely has one year changed the scene in Cornwall! This is now a peaceable, nay, honorable station. They give us good words almost in every place. What have we done, that the world should be so civil to us?

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I spoke severally to all those who had votes in the ensuing election. I found them such as I desired. Not one would even eat or drink at the expense of him for whom he voted. Five guineas had been given to W. C., but he returned them immediately. T. M. positively refused to accept any thing. And when he heard that his mother had received money privately, he could not rest till she gave him the three guineas, which he instantly sent back.

Thursday, 2, was the day of election for Parliament-men. It was begun and ended without any hurry at all. I had a large congregation in the evening, among whom two or three roared for the disquietness of their heart: As did many at the meeting which followed; particularly those who had lost their first love.

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About two I preached in the street at Redruth. The congregation was large, and deeply attentive: Indeed there are now scarce any in the town (but gentlemen) who are not convinced of the truth. At seven I preached at Stithians, and at five in the morning, Sunday, 5. We rode thence to St. Agnes. At two I preached to a large multitude of quiet hearers, many of whom seemed deeply affected. Yet soon after I had done, some began to divert themselves with throwing dirt and clods. Mr. Shepherd’s horse was frighted at this; and as one of them stooped down, leaped clear over him. The man screamed amain; but finding himself not hurt, he and his comrades poured a shower of stones after him. Knowing nothing of the matter, I rode soon after through the midst of them; and none lifted up a hand or opened his mouth.

About half-hour after five I began at Gwennap. I was afraid my voice would not suffice for such an immense multitude. But my fear was groundless; as the evening was quite calm, and the people all attention. It was more difficult to be heard in meeting the society, amidst the cries of those, on the one hand, who were pierced through as with a sword, and of those, on the other, who were filled with joy unspeakable.

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I preached, about twelve, at Bray: But neither the house nor the yard would contain the congregation; and all were serious; the scoffers are vanished away. I scarce saw one in the county.

I preached in the evening at Camborn to an equally serious congregation. I looked about for John Rogers, the champion, who had so often sworn, I should never more preach in that parish. But it seems, he had given up the cause, saying, “One may as well blow against the wind.”

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I preached at St. Ives; Wednesday, 8, at Sithney. On Thursday the Stewards of all the societies met. I now diligently inquired what Exhorters there were in each society; whether they had gifts meet for the work; whether their lives were eminently holy; and whether there appeared any fruit of their labor. I found, upon the whole,

1. That there were no less than eighteen Exhorters in the county.

2. That three of these had no gifts at all for the work, neither natural nor supernatural.

3. That a fourth had neither gifts nor grace; but was a dull, empty, self-conceited man.

4. That a fifth had considerable gifts, but had evidently made shipwreck of the grace of God: These therefore I determined immediately to set aside, and advise our societies not to hear them.

5. That J. B., A. L., and J. W. had gifts and grace, and had been much blessed in the work.

Lastly, That the rest might be helpful when there was no Preacher in their own or the neighboring societies, provided they would take no step without the advice of those who had more experience than themselves.

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I preached at Gulval-Cross, in the midway between Penzance and Marazion.

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I examined the classes at St. Just, established and settled in the grace of God.

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At five I preached at St. Just; at twelve, to the largest congregation I ever saw at Morva. I then went to church at Zennor; and when the service was ended, preached under the churchyard wall. Hence I rode to Newlyn, a little town on the south sea, about a mile from Penzance. At five I walked to a rising ground, near the seashore, where was a smooth white sand to stand on. An immense multitude of people was gathered together; but their voice was as the roaring of the sea. I began to speak, and the noise died away: But before I had ended my prayer, some poor wretches of Penzance began cursing and swearing, and thrusting the people off the bank. In two minutes I was thrown into the midst of them; when one of Newlyn, a bitter opposer till then, turned about and swore, “None shall meddle with the man: I will lose my life first.” Many others were of his mind: So I walked an hundred yards forward, and finished my sermon without any interruption.

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I preached at Terdinny, in Buryan parish, where was a large and earnest congregation, notwithstanding the wonderful stories which they have frequently heard related in the pulpit for certain truths. In the morning I wrote as follows: —

“REV. SIR, Terdinny, July 14, 1747.

“I WAS exceedingly surprised when I was informed yesterday, of your affirming publicly in the church, in the face of a whole congregation, ‘Now Wesley has sent down for an hundred pounds; and it must be raised directly. Nay, it is true.’ O Sir, is this possible? Can it be, that you should be so totally void (I will not say of conscience, of religion, but) of good-nature, as to credit such a tale? and of good manners and common sense, as thus to repeat it?

“I must beg that you would either justify or retract this; (for it is a point of no small concern;) and that I may know what you propose to do, before I set out for London.

“I am, Reverend Sir,

“Your brother and servant, for Christ’s sake.”

But he never favored me with an answer.

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I was welcomed into Port-Isaac by more company than I expected. The man who had some time since headed the mob when they left Edward Grenfill for dead, had gathered all his troops, and received us as soon as we entered the first street. They all attended us to Mr. Scantlebury’s door, who (Mr. T. informed me) desired I would lodge at his house. I knocked long at the door; but no one answered: At length, the master appeared, — an hoary, venerable old man. I asked, “Pray, is Mr. T. here?” He replied, “Mr. T. is not here. But, pray what may thy name be?” I answered, “My name is John Wesley.” He said, “I have heard of thee.” Perceiving that he had no more to say, I turned back to another house. The mob followed, hallooing and shouting; but none of then offered to strike, or even throw any thing. Only their captain, after some hard words, lifted up his stick at me once or twice. But one of his companions interposed. He then went quietly away.

After spending half an hour, we rode on to Camelford. We stopped at a friend’s house near the town; and between four and five walked to Mr. M.’s, who had often desired that, if Mr. Wesley came, he would preach either in his house or bowling green: But word came from the Mayor, while I was there, that if I did preach he would prosecute him. Finding no convenient place could be procured, we thought it best to go on to Mr. Bennet’s. As I walked through the town, we had a large train to attend us. Only one stone struck me on the shoulder. Fifty or a hundred waited upon us about half a mile: We then went on quietly to Tregear.

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I preached at Tamerton church in the morning, Mary Week in the afternoon, and St. Gennis in the evening.

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In the evening I preached in Tresmere church; and at five on Tuesday and Wednesday morning. Tuesday evening I preached at Laneast church; on Wednesday noon on St. Stephen’s Down, near Launceston. Thence we rode to Crockern-Well; and on Thursday in the afternoon came once more to Beercrocomb.

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About noon I preached at Taunton. Much opposition was expected; and several young gentlemen came, as it seemed, with that design; but they did not put it in execution. From hence we rode to Bridgewater; and even at this dry, barren place, God largely watered us with the dew of heaven. After preaching I rode to Middlesey, intending only to meet the society; but notice had been given that I would preach there; so I gave an exhortation to all that were present.

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I preached here soon after four; about noon at Waywick; and in the evening at Bristol.

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I preached in Kingswood at eight; in the afternoon at Connam; and at five in the Old Orchard, to the largest congregation which I ever remember to have seen at Bristol. What hath God wrought in this city! And yet perhaps the hundredth part of his work does not now appear.

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I set out for Ireland. We rode that day (but it was hard labor) to Builth, where I preached in the evening on the Prodigal Son.

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Taking horse early in the morning, we rode over the rough mountains of Radnorshire and Montgomeryshire into Merionethshire. In the evening I was surprised with one of the finest prospects, in its kind, that ever I saw in my life. We rode in a green vale, shaded with rows of trees, which made an arbor for several miles. The river labored along on our left hand, through broken rocks of every size, shape, and color. On the other side of the river, the mountain rose to an immense height, almost perpendicular: And yet the tall straight oaks stood, rank above rank, from the bottom to the very top; only here and there, where the mountain was not so steep, were interposed pastures or fields of corn. At a distance, as far as the eye could reach, as it were by way of contrast, A mountain huge uprear’d

Its broad bare back,

with vast, rugged rocks hanging over its brow, that seemed to nod portending ruin.

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Between three and four in the afternoon we, with some difficulty, reached Carnarvon. This has the face of a fortified town, having walls, (such as they are,) and a castle as considerable as that of Cardiff. Here we parted with our guide and interpreter, Mr. Philips. Mr. Tucker and I set out for Holyhead. We intended to cross over into Anglesey, at Baldonferry, four miles from Carnarvon: But not being able to inquire our way, (as we spoke no Welsh, and the country people no English,) we could not find where the ferry was, till we saw the boat coming over. We went into the boat about sunset, and lodged that night at a little inn by the waterside.

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We made a little stop at Llangevenye, seven miles from the ferry. We should have hired a guide to have steered over the sands, but it was quite out of my mind till we came to them; so we went straight across, and came to Holyhead without any stop or hindrance at all.

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Finding one of the packet-boats ready, we went on board about eight o’clock in the morning. It was a dead calm when we rowed out of the harbor: But about two in the afternoon the wind sprung up, and continued till near four on Sunday morning, when we were within sight of the Irish shore.

I could not but observe,

1. That while we were sailing with a fresh gale, there was no wind at all a mile off; but a ship which lay abreast of us was quite becalmed, till we left her out of sight.

2. That a French privateer, which for several days had taken every ship which sailed on that coast, was taken and brought into Dublin Bay, the very morning we arrived there.

Before ten we came to St. George’s Quay. Soon after we landed, hearing the bells ringing for church, I went thither directly. Mr. Lunell came to the Quay just after I was gone, and left word at the house where our things were, he would call again at one. He did so; and took us to his house. About three I wrote a line to the Curate of St. Mary’s, who sent me word, he should be glad of my assistance: So I preached there, (another gentleman reading Prayers,) to as gay and senseless a congregation as ever I saw. After sermon Mr. R. thanked me very affectionately, and desired I would favor him with my company in the morning.

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I met the society at five, and at six preached, on, “Repent, and believe the Gospel.” The room, large as it was, would not contain the people, who all seemed to taste the good word.

Between eight and nine I went to Mr. R., the Curate of St. Mary’s. He professed abundance of goodwill, commended my sermon in strong terms, and begged he might see me again the next morning. But, at the same time, he expressed the most rooted prejudice against Lay-Preachers, or preaching out of a church; and said, the Archbishop of Dublin was resolved to suffer no such irregularities in his diocese. I went to our brethren, that we might pour out our souls before God. I then went straight to wait on the Archbishop myself; but he was gone out of town.

In the afternoon a gentleman desired to speak with me. He was troubled that it was not with him as in times past, when, at the age of fourteen, the power of God came mightily upon him, constraining him to rise out of bed to pour out his prayers and tears from an heart overflowed with love and joy in the Holy Ghost. For some months he scarce knew whether he was in the body, — continually walking and talking with God. He has now an abiding peace; but cannot rest till the love of God again fills his heart. Between six and seven I went to Marlborough-Street. The house wherein we then preached was originally designed for a Lutheran church, and will contain about four hundred people. But four or five times the number may stand in the yard. Many of the rich were there, and many Ministers of every denomination. I preached on, “The Scripture hath concluded all under sin;” and spoke closely and strongly: But none at all seemed to be offended. If my brother or I could have been here for a few months, I question if there might not have been a larger society here, than even in London itself.

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I waited on the Archbishop at Newbridge, ten miles from Dublin. I had the favor of conversing with him two or three hours; in which I answered abundance of objections. In the evening I returned to Mr. Lunell’s. John Trembath preached at Marlborough-Street, to a large congregation both of Laity and Clergy, who behaved with much decency.

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I purposely delayed examining the classes, till I had gone through the Rules of the Society, part of which I explained to them at large, with the reasons of them, every morning.

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We walked in the afternoon to see two persons that were sick near Phoenix-Park. That part of it which joins to the city is sprinkled up and down with trees, not unlike Hyde-Park. But about a mile from the town is a thick grove of old, tall oaks; and in the center of this, a round, open green, (from which are vistas all four ways,) with a handsome stone pillar in the midst, having a Phoenix on the top.

I continued preaching, morning and evening, to many more than the house would contain, and had more and more reason to hope they would not all be unfruitful hearers.

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I procured a genuine account of the great Irish massacre in 1641. Surely never was there such a transaction before, from the beginning of the world! More than two hundred thousand men, women, and children, butchered within a few months, in cool blood, and with such circumstances of cruelty as make one’s blood run cold! It is well if God has not a controversy with the nation, on this very account, to this day.

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I stayed at home, and spoke to all that came. But I found scarce any Irish among them. At least ninety-nine in an hundred of the native Irish remain in the religion of their forefathers. The Protestants, whether in Dublin or elsewhere, are almost all transplanted lately from England. Nor is it any wonder that those who are born Papists generally live and die such, when the Protestants can find no better ways to convert them than Penal Laws and Acts of Parliament.

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We went to St. James’s church in the morning, (there being no service at St. Patrick’s,) and in the afternoon, to Christ Church. When I came out of the choir, I could not but observe well-nigh the whole congregation drawn up in rows in the body of the church, from the one end to the other. I walked through the midst of them; and they stared their fill: But scarce one spoke either good or bad.

In the evening I had a large number of them in Marlborough-Street, both within doors and without.

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I began examining the society, which I finished the next day. It contained about two hundred and four-score members, many of whom appeared to be strong in faith. The people in general are of a more teachable spirit than in most parts of England. But, on that very account, they must be watched over with the more care, being equally susceptible of good and ill impressions.

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I was informed that Mr. Latrobe, the Moravian Preacher; had read in his pulpit part of the “Short View of the Difference between the Moravians” and us, with the addition of many bitter words. Herein he did us, unawares, a signal favor; giving an authentic proof that we have nothing to do with them.

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I was desired to see the town and the college. The town has scarce any public building, except the Parliament-house, which is at all remarkable. The churches are poor and mean, both within and without. St. Stephen’s Green might be made a beautiful place, being abundantly larger than Lincoln’s Inn-Square; but the houses round about it (besides that some are low and bad) are quite irregular; and unlike each other; and little care is taken of the Green itself, which is as rough and uneven as a common.¹

The College contains two little quadrangles; and one about as large as that of New-College in Oxford. There is likewise a bowling-green, a small garden, and a little park; and a new-built handsome library. I expected we should have sailed on Saturday, 22; but no packet-boat was come in. In order to make the best of our time, I preached this day at noon, as well as in the evening. It was not for nothing that our passage was delayed. Who knows what a day may bring forth?

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The room was so crowded in the morning, that I thought it best to begin before the usual time in the evening. Yet were a multitude of people got together, in the house, yard, and street, far more than my voice could reach. I cried aloud to as many of them as could hear, “All things are ready: Come we to the marriage.” I had then delivered my message: So before ten we took boat, and about eleven reached the ship. The wind was right ahead. Then succeeded a dead calm; so that we did not get out of the bay till Monday evening; nor within sight of Wales till

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By this means we had an opportunity of talking largely both with our fellow passengers and the sailors, many of whom received our words with gladness. About two in the afternoon we landed at Holyhead. Between three and four we took horse, and came in the evening to Thomas Thomas’s, near Ryd-y-Spardon. He had before desired Jonathan Reeves to call there in his return; but we were at a great loss, none in the house understanding English, and none of us understanding Welsh; till Mr. Morgan, a neighboring Schoolmaster, came, who took us to his own house; and in the morning, Thursday, 27, rode with us to the passage.

We reached Carnarvon before ten, Tannabull in the evening, and Llanidloes, Friday, 28.

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About noon we came to Builth. At three I preached in the main street, and at Garth in the evening; where I met my brother going to Ireland.

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He preached at Builth about nine. Thence we went to Maesmennys church. But it would not near contain the congregation; so that I was constrained to preach in the churchyard. Thence I rode to Lanzunfried. Here also the church not being able to hold the people, I came out to a large tombstone, under a shady tree, and proclaimed “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

One of the audience pressed me much to preach at Clero; telling me Mr. J. had often said I should be welcome to his pulpit. Monday, 31. I rode thither, and called on Mr. J.; but (as I supposed it would) his heart failed. I preached on a large smooth meadow, Christ our “wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption;” and a multitude of people were gathered from all parts, though on so short a warning.

We set out early, SEPTEMBER 1; and after a short stop near Crick-Howell, aimed at the nearest way over the mountains, to Cardiff. But it was near four in the afternoon before we could reach a little village at the foot of the hills, called Risca. The people at the inn here were civil above measure; particularly a young, genteel man, who was son to the woman of the house, and lived at a small distance from it. He rode with us two miles, to show us the nearest way; and desired, if we came again, we would lodge at his house. The reason of all this kindness was, that, a year or two ago, he had heard me preach at Bristol.

I reached Cardiff between seven and eight, and immediately went to the Room. My strength just lasted till I had done preaching. I was then quite ready to lie down and rest.

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I spent some time with T. Prosser, who had filled the society with vain janglings. I found the fault lay in his head, rather than his heart. He is an honest, well-meaning man; but no more qualified, either by nature or grace, to expound Scripture, than to read lectures in Logic or Algebra. Yet even men of sense have taken this dull, mystical man to be far deeper than he is: And it is very natural so to do. If we look into a dark pit, it seems deep; but the darkness only makes it seem so. Bring the light, and we shall see it is very shallow.

In the evening I preached at Fonmon; but, the congregation being larger than the chapel would contain, I was obliged to preach in the court. I was myself much comforted, in comforting the weary and heavy laden.

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There was a very large congregation at Cardiff Castle-yard, in the evening. I afterwards met the society, spoke plain to them, and left them once more in peace.

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In my road to Bristol, I read over Q. Curtius, a fine writer, both as to thought and language. But what an hero does he describe! whose murder of his old friend and companion Clitus, (though not done of a sudden, as is commonly supposed; but deliberately, after some hours’ consideration,) was a virtuous act in comparison of his butchering poor Philotas, and his good old father, Parmenio. Yet even this was a little thing, compared to the thousands and ten thousands he slaughtered, both in battle, and in and after taking cities, for no other crime than defending their wives and children. I doubt whether Judas claims so hot a place in hell as Alexander the Great.

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I preached at Bath about noon, and in the evening at Bearfield. Friday, 11. We rode to Reading. Mr. Richards, a tradesman in the town, came to our inn, and entreated me to preach at a Room which he had built far that purpose. I did so, at six in the morning, and then rode on. It rained all the way till we came to London.

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Mrs. Baddily desired me to go up to her son, who had been out of order for some days. For one or two years he was a pattern to all the family; till he began to converse more with good sort of men. He then grew cooler and cooler in the ways of God, and, in a few months, quitted the society; resolving, he said, to keep to his Church, and live a sober life, and that was enough. That was too much in a little time. He grew tired of his Church too, and dropped that and sobriety together. He was now, his mother informed me, dead as a stone to all the things of God. I spake a few words, and went to prayer. And God broke his heart. He continued weeping and praying all the day, and all the night; and at six in the morning, fell asleep.

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I rode to Shoreham, where I preached every morning in the house, and every evening in the church. But the season of fruit is not yet.

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I preached in Moorfields, morning and evening, and continued so to do till November. I know no church in London (that in West-Street excepted) where there is so serious a congregation.

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I talked with one who, a little time before, was so overwhelmed with affliction, that she went out one night to put an end to it all, by throwing herself into the New River. As she went by the Foundery, (it being a watch-night,) she heard some people singing. She stopped, and went in: She listened awhile, and God spoke to her heart. She had no more desire to put an end to her life; but to die to sin, and live to God.

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I retired to Mrs. Sparrow’s, at Lewisham, where also I preached every evening. Saturday, OCTOBER 3. I returned to London. In the evening I buried a young man, who had but lately known God; but from that time he had lived much in a little space. His soul was clouded at the beginning of his illness; but the clouds soon vanished away, and he continued in the calm joy of faith, till his spirit returned to God.

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We had a watch-night at the chapel. Being weak in body, I was afraid I could not go through it. But the longer I spoke, the more strength I had: In so much that at twelve o’clock all my weariness and weakness were gone, and I was as one refreshed with wine.

The former part of the next week, and of some others, I spent at Newington and Lewisham in writing.

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I went with two or three friends, to see what are called the electrical experiments. How must these also confound those poor half-thinkers, who will believe nothing but what they can comprehend? Who can comprehend, how fire lives in water, and passes through it more freely than through air? How flame issues out of my finger, real flame, such as sets fire to spirits of wine? How these, and many more as strange phenomena, arise from the turning round a glass globe? It is all mystery: If haply by any means God may hide pride from man!

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I read Dr. Doddridge’s “Account of Colonel Gardiner.” And what matters it, whether his soul was set at liberty by a fever, or a Lochaber axe, seeing he has gone to God?

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T. C., who had been with the Brethren some years, desired to speak with me. He said, he could find no rest any where else, and was constrained to return where he was first called. I believe he obeyed that conviction for a month. “Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel.”

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I preached at Windsor at noon, and in the afternoon rode to Reading. Mr. J. R. had just sent his brother word, that he had hired a mob to pull down his preaching-house that night. In the evening Mr. S. Richards overtook a large company of bargemen walking towards it, whom he immediately accosted, and asked if they would go with him and hear a good sermon; telling them, “I will make room for you, if you were as many more.” They said, they would go with all their hearts. “But, neighbors,” said he, “would it not be as well to leave those clubs behind you? Perhaps some of the women may be frighted at them.” They threw them all away, and walked quietly with him to the house, where he set them in a pew. In the conclusion of my sermon, one of them who used to be their captain, being the head taller than his fellows, rose up, and looking round the congregation, said, “The gentleman says nothing but what is good: I say so; and there is not a man here that shall dare to say otherwise.”

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I began examining the classes, and every person severally, touching that bane of religion, evil-speaking; as well as touching their manner of life before they heard this preaching; and by comparing what they were with what they are now, we found more abundant cause to praise God.

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I was informed of a remarkable providence: One going home the last watch-night, met a woman in Blackfriars, who inquired which was the way to the waterside. She said, “It is so late I doubt you will get no boat.” The woman answered, “I don’t want one.” On this she stopped and began to question her more closely, what she was going to do. After a while, she confessed she was going to drown herself, being under heavy affliction. But she was soon brought to a better mind; and seemed resolved to cast her care on Him, who had so signally cared for her.

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I spent an hour with Mary Cheesebrook, a strange monument of the mercy of God. About six years ago, she was without God in the world, being a kept mistress. An acquaintance brought her one evening to the chapel in West-Street, where God gave her a new heart. She shed abundance of tears, she plucked out the right eye and cast it from her; and from that time procured for herself by hard labor what was needful for life and godliness. She missed no opportunity of coming to the preaching; often after a hard day’s work, at May-Fair, she came to the Foundery in the evening, running the greater part of the way. Every Saturday, after paying her little debts, she gave away all the money that remained; leaving the morrow to take thought for the things of itself.

Two years ago she catched a violent cold, which she neglected, till it settled upon her lungs. I knew nothing of her illness till it was past cure, she being then worn to a skeleton. Upon my mentioning her case to Mrs. —, she sent her half-a-guinea. Molly immediately sent for a poor man, a baker, of whom she had lately taken her bread. She owed him about ten shillings: But an earnest dispute arose between them; for the man would not take the money, saying, she wanted it more than he. But at length she prevailed, saying, she could not die in peace, if she owed any man any thing.

But I found something still lay upon her mind. Upon my pressing her to speak freely, she told me, it was concern for her child, a girl about eight years old, who, after she was gone, would have no friend to take care either of her soul or body. I replied, “Be at rest in this thing also; I will take care of the child.” From that time she lay (two or three weeks) quietly waiting for the salvation of God.

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Poor Mr. Simpson spent an hour with me, distressed on every side; drawn up to London by fair and specious promises; and then left to perish, unless he would promise, never more to preach out of a church. Alas! what a method of conversion is this! I love the Church too: But I would no more starve men into the Church, than burn them into it.

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Mr. H., one of the first ten who met in band with my brother and me, desired to speak with me. I had not exchanged a word with him before, since we parted at Fetter-Lane. He said, about six years ago, the Brethren told him, it was the will of the Lamb, that he should give himself to the public work, quitting all secular business. He obeyed, discharged his men, sold his goods, parted with his house. From that time, he not only preached, but was employed in places of the greatest trust. About two years ago, having many doubts upon his mind concerning their method of proceeding, he wrote a long letter to the Count, who seemed to take it well; and he continued laboring, as before, both in preaching and in the government of the Church.

But about a month ago, he was ordered to leave off preaching and return to his trade. Having learned not to dispute, but obey, he hired an house and set up a sign: Nevertheless he could not be easy; he mused much, and prayed much, and at last resolved to come to me.

He seethed to tell me all his heart, both at this and our following interviews. If he only seemed, let him look to it. Ego in portu navigo.¹

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About six in the morning, Mrs. Witham slept in the Lord. A mother in Israel hast thou also been, and thy works shall praise thee in the gates. Some years ago, before Mr. Witham died, she seemed to stand on the brink of eternity. But God renewed her strength, till she had finished the work which he had given her to do. She was an eminent pattern of calm boldness for the truth, of simplicity and godly sincerity; of unwearied constancy in attending all the ordinances of God; of zeal for God and for all good works; and of self-denial in every kind. Blessed is the dead that hath thus lived and died in the Lord! for she rests from her labors, and her works follow her.

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I set out early, and called on Mr. H. at Brentford, who rode on with me to Basingstoke that night. We were thoroughly wet with the heavy rain, which intermitted in the night, but began again before we took horse in the morning.

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About noon we reached Stockbridge. The rain then changed into snow. Seeing no prospect of fair weather, after resting a while we set out in the midst of the storm. It blew such a hurricane, as I have scarce known in England, and that full in our teeth, so that our horses reeled to and fro, and had much ado to keep their feet. The snow likewise drove so vehemently in our faces, in riding over the open Downs, where, for several miles, there was neither house, nor tree, nor shrub to shelter, that it was hard labor to get forward. But in about an hour, the sky cleared up, and we rode on comfortably to Salisbury.

From the concurring account of many witnesses, who spoke no more than they personally knew, I now learned as much as is hitherto brought to light concerning the fall of poor Mr. H——.

Twelve years ago, he was, without all question, filled with faith and the love of God. He was a pattern of humility, meekness, seriousness, and, above all, of self-denial; so that in all England, I knew not his fellow. It were easy to point out the several steps, whereby he fell from his steadfastness; even till he fell into a course of adultery, yea, and avowed it in the face of the sun!

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I took my leave of this uncomfortable place, and set out for Bristol. But the heavy rains, together with the melting snow, had made the lower parts of the road scarce passable. However, we made a shift to reach Philip’s Norton that night, and Bristol the next day. We found fresh proof everyday, that God had brought us hither, both to give and to receive a blessing.

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We had a glorious hour, with a few that know the Lord. We then rode to Bearfield, where I preached at noon, with a deep sense of his presence. Some who were laughing when I began, hid their faces soon, being ashamed to be seen in tears. We rode on in the afternoon, and came the next evening, thoroughly weary and wet, to Reading.

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I preached at Datchet at noon, and at London in the evening.

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I went to Newington. Here, in the intervals of writing, I read the deaths of some of the Order de la Trappe. I am amazed at the allowance which God makes for invincible ignorance. Notwithstanding the mixture of superstition which appears in every one of these, yet what a strong vein of piety runs through all! What deep experience of the inward work of God; of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost! Being not convinced, that I had yet delivered my own soul, with regard to that unhappy man, on Tuesday, 22, I wrote once more to Mr. H., as follows: —

“DEAR BROTHER, London, Dec. 22, 1747.

“1. WHEN you was at Oxford with me, fourteen or fifteen years ago, you was holy and unblamable in all manner of conversation. I greatly rejoiced in the grace of God which was given unto you, which was often a blessing to my own soul. Yet even then you had frequently starts of thought which were not of God, though they at first appeared so to be. But you was humble and teachable; you was easily convinced, and those imaginations vanished away.

“2. More than twelve years ago, you told me, God had revealed it to you, that you should marry my youngest sister. I was much surprised, being well assured that you was able to receive our Lord’s saying, (so you had continually testified,) and to be an ‘eunuch for the kingdom of heaven’s sake.’ But you vehemently affirmed, the thing was of God; you was certain it was his will. God had made it plain to you that you must marry, and that she was the very person. You asked and gained her consent, and fixed the circumstances relating thereto.

“3. Hence I date your fall. Here were several faults in one. You leaned altogether to your own understanding, not consulting either me, who was then the guide of your soul, or the parents of your intended wife, till you had settled the whole affair. And while you followed the voice of nature, you said it was the voice of God.

“4. In a few days you had a counter-revelation, that you was not to marry her, but her sister. This last error was far worse than the first. But you was now quite above conviction. So, in spite of her poor, astonished parent, of her brothers, of all your vows and promises, you shortly after jilted the younger, and married the elder sister. The other, who had honored you as an angel from heaven, and still loved you much too well, (for you had stole her heart from the God of her youth,) refused to be comforted. She fell into a lingering illness, which terminated in her death. And doth not her blood still cry unto God from the earth? Surely it is upon your head.

“5. Till this time you was a pattern of lowliness, meekness, seriousness, and continual advertence to the presence of God; and, above all, of self-denial in every kind, and of suffering all things with joyfulness. But there was now a worm at the root of the gourd. Yet it did not presently wither away; but for two years or more, after your marriage, you behaved nearly the same as before.

“Then anger and surliness began to appear, particularly toward your wife. But it was not long before you was sensible of this, and you seemed to have conquered it.

“6. You went up to London ten years ago. After this you began to speak on any head; not with your usual diffidence and self-abasement, but with a kind of confidence in your own judgment, and an air of self-sufficiency. A natural consequence was, the treating with more sharpness and contempt those who opposed either your judgment or practice.

“7. You came to live at London. You then, for a season, appeared to gain ground again. You acted in concert with my brother and me; heard our advice, and sometimes followed it. But this continued only till you contracted a fresh acquaintance with some of the Brethren of Fetter-Lane. Thenceforward you was quite shut up to us; we had no manner of influence over you; you was more and more prejudiced against us, and would receive nothing which we said.

“8. About six years ago you removed to Salisbury, and began a society there. For a year or two you went with them to the church and sacrament, and simply preached faith working by love. God was with you, and they increased both in number, and in the knowledge and love of God. “About four years since you broke off all friendship with us; you would not so much as make use of our hymns, either in public or private, but laid them quite aside, and took the German hymn-book in their stead. “You would not willingly suffer any of your people to read anything which we wrote. You angrily caught one of my sermons out of your servant’s hand; saying, you would have no such books read in your house. In much the same manner you spoke to Mrs. Whitemarsh, when you found her reading one of the ‘Appeals.’ So that as far as in you lay, you fixed a great gulf between us and you, which remains to this day, notwithstanding a few steps lately made towards a reunion. “About the same time you left off going to church, as well as to the sacrament. Your followers very soon trod in your steps; and not content with neglecting the ordinances of God, they began, after your example, to despise them, and all that continued to use them: Speaking with equal contempt of the Public Service, of Private Prayer, of Baptism, and of the Lord’s Supper.

“From this time also you began to espouse and teach many uncommon opinions: As, that there is no resurrection of the body; that there is no general judgment to come; and that there is no hell, no worm that never dieth, no fire that never shall be quenched.

“9. Your seriousness, and advertence to the presence of God, now declined daily. You could talk on any thing or nothing, just as others did. You could break a jest, or laugh at it heartily; and as for fasting, abstinence, and self-denial, you, with the Moravians, trampled it under foot.” In the following paragraphs I recited to him the things he had done with regard to more than one, or two, or three women, concluding thus: — “And now you know not that you have done anything amiss! You can eat and drink and be merry! You are everyday engaged with variety of company, and frequent the coffee-houses! Alas, my brother, what is this? How are you above measure hardened by the deceitfulness of sin! Do you remember the story of Santon Barsisa? I pray God your last end may not be like his! O, how have you grieved the Spirit of God! Return to him with weeping, fasting, and mourning. You are in the very belly of hell; only the pit hath not yet shut its mouth upon you. Arise, thou sleeper, and call upon thy God! Perhaps he may yet be found. Because he still bears with me, I cannot despair for you. But you have not a moment to lose. May God this instant strike you to the heart, that you may feel his wrath abiding on you, and have no rest in your bones, by reason of your sin, till all your iniquities are done away!”

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We met at four, and solemnly rejoiced in God our Savior. I found much revival in my own soul this day; and so did many others also. Both this and the following days, I strongly urged the wholly giving up ourselves to God, and renewing in every point our covenant, that the Lord should be our God.

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I called on one, with whose mother I had prayed a little before her death. I knew not till now, how she came to desire me, of all persons, to pray with her. It seems her daughter; who was of a lion-like spirit, came to me some time before, and told me, she had just been quarreling with her aunt on my account, and was so angry that she struck her. I told her, “Then go and ask her pardon.” She went home, ran to her aunt, and asked her pardon. While they were hanging upon each other, both in tears, her mother came in, being afraid they were fighting. She cried out, “Sister, what is Sally doing to you?” She replied, “She has just been asking me pardon.” “I never knew her to do such a thing since she was born,” said her mother: “Sally, who taught you that?” “My Minister,” said Sally. All were struck; and their enmity was at an end.

JANUARY 1, 1748. — We began the year at four in the morning, with joy and thanksgiving. The same spirit was in the midst of us both at noon and in the evening. Surely we shall at length present ourselves “a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God.”

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