1749

I had designed to set out with a friend for Rotterdam; but being much pressed to answer Dr. Middleton’s book against the Fathers, I postponed my voyage, and spent almost twenty days in that unpleasing employment.

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I looked over the celebrated Tract of Mr. Daille, “On the right Use of the Fathers.” I soon saw what occasion that good man had given to the enemies of God to blaspheme; and that Dr. Middleton, in particular, had largely used that work in order to overthrow the whole Christian system.

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Mr. Manning being dangerously ill, I was desired to ride over to Hayes. I knew not how the warm people would behave considering the stories which passed current among them; Mrs. B. having averred to Mr. M. himself, that Mr. Wesley was unquestionably a Jesuit. Just such a Jesuit in principle (and desirous to be such in practice) as Sir Nathaniel Barnardiston was.

But God made all things easy. Far from any tumult or rudeness, I observed deep attention in almost the whole congregation.

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Mr. M. having had a relapse, I rode over again; and again I observed the same decency of behavior in a much larger congregation.

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I rode with my brother to Oxford, and preached to a small company in the evening.

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We rode to Ross, and on Friday to Garth.

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My brother preached at Maesmennys in the morning. I preached at Builth in the afternoon, and at Garth in the evening. Tuesday,

21. I rode to Ragland, and the next day to Kingswood.

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My design was to have as many of our Preachers here, during the Lent, as could possibly be spared; and to read lectures to them everyday, as I did to my Pupils in Oxford. I had seventeen of them in all. These I divided into two classes; and read to one, Bishop Pearson on the Creed: to the other, Aldrich’s Logic; and to both, “Rules for Action and Utterance.”

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I corrected the Extract of John Arndt, designed for part of the “Christian Library.” But who can tell, whether that and an hundred other designs will be executed or no? “When the breath of man goeth forth, he turneth again to his dust, and then all his thoughts perish.”

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I rode to Freshford, three or four miles from Bath. The house not containing the people, I was obliged to preach out of doors. It was dark when I began, and rained all the time I preached; but, I believe, none went away.

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(After preaching at five, I rode to Bearfield, and preached there between eight and nine, and about one at Seend. Mrs. Andrews, the wife of a neighboring Clergyman, afterwards invited me, in her husband’s name, to his house: There I found

An hoary, reverend, and religious man;

the very sight of whom struck me with awe. He told me, his only son, about nine years ago, came to hear me preach at Bearfield. He was then in the flower of his age, but remarkable above his years, both for piety, sense, and learning. He was clearly and deeply convinced of the truth, but returned home ill of the small-pox. Nevertheless he praised God for having been there, rejoiced in a full sense of his love, and triumphed more and more over sickness, pain, and death, till his soul returned to God. He said he had loved me ever since, and greatly desired to see me; and that he blessed God he had seen me once, before he followed his dear son into eternity.

At five I preached at Bearfield again. This day I was wet from morning to night, with the continued rain; but I found no manner of inconvenience.

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Having set apart an hour weekly for that purpose, I met the children of our four schools together: Namely, the boys boarded in the new House, the girls boarded in the old; the day scholars (boys) taught by James Harding, and the girls taught by Sarah Dimmock. We soon found the effect of it in the children, some of whom were deeply and lastingly affected.

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I preached in the evening at Bath; Friday, 24, about noon, at Road; and in the evening at Westbury. Monday, 27. I rode to Shepton, where all is quiet now; in the evening I preached at Coleford; ‘Tuesday, 28, at Oakhill, where was also great peace, and a people loving one another.

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I began abridging Dr. Cave’s “Primitive Christianity.” O what pity, that so great piety and learning should be accompanied with so little judgment!

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I set out for Ireland. We waited more than four hours at the Passage; by which delay, I was forced to disappoint a large congregation at Newport. About three I came, to Pedwas, near Caerphilly. The congregation had waited some hours. I began immediately, wet and weary as I was; and we rejoiced over all our labors.

In the evening, and the next morning, (Tues. 4,) I preached at Cardiff. O what a fair prospect was here some years ago! Surely this whole town would have known God, from the least even to the greatest, had it not been for men leaning to their own understanding, instead of “the Law and the Testimony.”

At twelve I preached at Lanmais, to a loving, earnest people, who do not desire to be any wiser than God. In the evening I preached at Fonmon, the next morning at Cowbridge. How is the scene changed since I was here last, amidst the madness of the people, and the stones flying on every side! Now all is calm; the whole town is in good humor, and flock to hear the glad tidings of salvation.

In the evening I preached at Lantrissent. Thursday, 6. We rode to a hard named place on the top of a mountain. I scarce saw any house near: However, a large number of honest, simple people soon came together; but few could understand me: So Henry Lloyd, when I had done, repeated the substance of my sermon in Welsh. The behavior of the people recompensed us for our labor in climbing up to them.

About noon we came to Aberdare, just as the bell was ringing for a burial. This had brought a great number together, to whom, after the burial, I preached in the church. We had almost continued rain from Aberdare to the great rough mountain that hangs over the vale of Brecknock: But as soon as we gained the top of this, we left the clouds behind us. We had a mild, fair, sunshiny evening the remainder of our journey.

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We reached Garth. Saturday, 8. I married my brother and Sarah Gwynne. It was a solemn day, such as became the dignity of a Christian marriage.

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I preached at Builth, Maesmennys, and Garth. Monday, 10. A little after ten we reached Llanidloes. Many were come thither before us from all parts. About eleven I reached in the market-place. The wind was so piercing that whenever it came in my face, it almost took away my voice. But the poor people (though all of them stood bareheaded) seemed not to know there was any wind at all. We rode from hence in three hours to a village seven miles off. The persons at whose house we called, knowing who we were, received us with open arms, and gladly gave us such fare as they had. In three hours more we rode with much ado, seven miles further; to a village named Dynasmouthy. Here an honest man, out of pure goodwill, without my knowing any thing of the matter, sent for the most learned man in the town, who was an Exciseman, to bear me company. He sent an excuse, being not very well, but withal invited me to his house. I returned him thanks, and sent him two or three little books; on which he wrote a few lines, begging me to call upon him. I went, and found one that wanted a Savior, and was deeply sensible of his want. I spent some time with him in conversation and prayer, and had reason to hope, the seed was sown in good ground.

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We reached Dall-y-gelle in less than three hours, Tannabull before noon, and Carnarvon in the evening What need there is of guides over these sands I cannot conceive. This is the third time I have crossed them without any.

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We came to Holyhead between one and two. But all the ships were on the Irish side. One came in the next day, but could not go out, the wind being quite contrary. In this journey I read over Statius’s Thebais. I wonder one man should write so well and so ill. Sometimes he is scarce inferior to Virgil; sometimes as low as the dullest parts of Ovid. In the evening I preached on, “Be ye also ready.” The poor people now seemed to be much affected; and equally so the next night: So that I was not sorry the wind was contrary.

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We went on board at six, the wind then standing due east. But no sooner were we out of the harbor, than it turned southwest, and blew a storm. Yet we made forward, and about one o’clock came within two or three leagues of land. The wind then wholly failed; a calm suddenly following a storm, produced such a motion as I never felt before. But it was not long before the wind sprung up west, which obliged us to stand away for the Skerries. When we wanted a league of shore it fell calm again, so that there we rolled about till past sunset. But in the night we got back into Dublin Bay, ad landed soon after three at Dunleary, about seven English miles from the city. Leaving William Tucker to follow me in a chaise, I walked straight away, and came to Skinner’s Alley, a little before the time of preaching. I preached on, “Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” In the afternoon, and again in the evening, (in our own garden,) I preached on, “Let us come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” On Thursday and Friday I examined the classes, and was much comforted among them. I left about four hundred in the society; and, after all the stumbling blocks laid in the way, I found four hundred and forty nine.

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We had several showers in the afternoon, while I was preaching in our garden: and, toward the conclusion, a vehement shower of hail. But all kept their ground till I concluded.

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The cold which I had had for some days growing worse and worse, and the swelling which began in my cheek increasing greatly, and paining me much, I sent for Dr. Rutty. But, in the mean time, I applied boiled nettles, which took away the pain in a moment. Afterwards I used warm treacle, which so abated the swelling, that before the Doctor came I was almost well. However, he advised me not to go out that day. But I had appointed to read the letters in the evening. I returned home as early as I could, and found no inconvenience.

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I rode to Tyrrel’s Pass, and preached in the evening; and on Sunday morning and evening.

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I preached at five in the evening at Edinderry, to an exceedingly well behaved congregation. I preached at five in the morning (many Quakers being present) on, “They shall be all taught of God.” In the evening I preached at Mount Mellick.

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I preached at Tullamore; Thursday, 4, at Clara, about noon; and in the evening at Athlone. I never saw so large a congregation here on a weekday before; among whom were many of the soldiers, (the remains of the regiment wherein John Nelson was,) and seven or eight of the Officers. They all behaved well, and listened with deep attention.

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This day and the next I endeavored to see all who were weary and faint in their minds. Most of them, I found, had not been used with sufficient tenderness. Who is there that sufficiently weighs the advice of Kempis, Noli duriter agere cum tentato? “Deal not harshly with one that is tempted.”

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I preached (as usual) at five and at three, with the spirit of convincing speech. The Rector preached in the afternoon, (though it is called the Morning Service,) a close, useful sermon on the fear of God. At five I had great numbers of the poor Papists, (as well as Protestants,) maugre all the labor of their Priests. I called aloud, “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters; and he that hath no money!” Strange news to them! One of whom had declared frankly, but a few days before, “I would fain be with you, but I dare not; for now I have all my sins forgiven for four shillings a year; and this could not be in your church.” We had a triumphant hour when the society met. Several captives were set at liberty: One of these was Mr. Joseph Ch——s. He had been an eminent man many years for cursing, swearing, drinking, and all kinds of fashionable wickedness. On Monday last he had rode fifteen miles to Tyrrel’s Pass, and came thither before five in the morning. He was immediately convinced, and followed me in from the preaching. I was then examining a class: The words cut him to the heart. He came after me to Athlone, (when he had settled some temporal business,) having his eyes continually filled with tears; and being scarce able either to eat, drink, or sleep. But God now wiped away the tears from his eyes; and he returned to his house, to declare what things God had wrought.

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I rode to Aghrim, where the face of things was quite changed since the time I was there before. Here was now a serious congregation from all the country round. I preached about seven, and afterwards explained the manner and use of a society. The first who desired to join therein, was Mr. S., his wife, and daughter.

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I rode to Ahaskra, six miles south, at the desire of Mr. G., the Rector. As the Papists durst not come into the church, I preached before Mr. Glass’s door. I should not have imagined this was the first time of their hearing this preaching; so fixed and earnest was their attention. In the morning, Wednesday, 10, I think the congregation was larger than in the evening; among whom was the Rector of a neighboring parish, who seemed then to be much athirst after righteousness.

Mr. Wade, of Aghrim, rode with me hence to Eyre Court, about fourteen miles from Ahaskra. Here I preached in the market-house, a large, handsome room, to a well behaved congregation. Thence I rode on to Birr, and preached, at seven, to a large, unconcerned congregation. The next day, both in the morning and evening, I spoke very plain and rough. And the congregation had quite another appearance than it had the night before. So clear it is, that love will not always prevail; but there is a time for the terrors of the Lord.

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Before nine we came to Nenagh. I had no design to preach; but one of the Dragoons quartered there, would take no denial: So I ordered a chair to be carried out, and went to the market-place. Presently such a congregation was gathered round me as I had not seen since I left Athlone. To these I spake, as I was able, the whole counsel of God; and then rode cheerfully on to Limerick.

Between six and seven I preached at Mardyke, (an open place without the walls,) to about two thousand people; not one of whom I observed either to laugh, or to look about, or to mind any thing but the sermon. Some years since an old abbey here was rebuilt, with a design to have Public Service therein. But that design failing, only the shell of it was finished. Of this (lying useless) the society has taken a lease. Here I preached in the morning, Saturday, 13, to since or seven hundred people. We then went to Prayers at the cathedral, an ancient and venerable pile. In the afternoon I walked round the walls of the town, scarce so large as Newcastle upon Tyne. And the fortifications are much in the same repair; very sufficient to keep out the wild Irish.

MAY 14. — (Being Whit-Sunday.) Our church was more than full in the morning, many being obliged to stand without. I hardly knew how the time went, but continued speaking till near seven o’clock. I went at eleven to the cathedral. I had been informed it was a custom here, for the Gentry especially, to laugh and talk all the time of Divine Service; but I saw nothing of it. The whole congregation, rich and poor, behaved suitably to the occasion.

In the evening I preached to a numerous congregation, on, “If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.” We afterwards met the society. Six or seven prisoners of hope were set at liberty this day.

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A company of revelers and dancers had in the afternoon taken possession of the place where I used to preach. Some advised me to go to another place; but I knew it needed not. As soon as ever I came in sight, the holiday mob vanished away.

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I went to dine on the island: (So they call a peninsula without the walls:) We had hardly dined when one and another of the neighbors came in, till we had a company of sixteen or eighteen. We joined together in prayer, and praising God; and many, I believe, went home rejoicing. How does the frequency and greatness of the works of God make us less (instead of more) sensible of them! A few years ago, if we heard of one notorious sinner truly converted to God, it was matter of solemn joy to all that loved or feared him: And now, that multitudes of every kind and degree are daily turned from the power of darkness to God, we pass it over as a common thing! O God, give us thankful hearts!

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I met the class of soldiers, eight of whom were Scotch Highlanders. Most of these were brought up well: But evil communications had corrupted good manners. They all said, from the time they entered into the army, they had grown worse and worse. But God had now given them another call, and they knew the day of their visitation.

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I saw a melancholy sight. A gentlewoman of an unspotted character, sitting at home, on May 4,1747, cried out that something seized her by the side. Then she said it was in her mouth. Quickly after she complained of her head. From that time she wept continually for four months, and afterwards grew outrageous; but always insisted that God had forsaken her, and that the devil possessed her, body and soul. I found it availed nothing to reason with her; she only blasphemed the more; cursing God, and vehemently desiring, yet fearing, to die. However, she suffered me to pray; only saying, it signified not, for God had given her up.

Her brother gave me almost as strange an account of himself. Some years since, as he was in the full career of sin, in a moment he felt the wrath of God upon him, and was in the deepest horror and agony of soul. He had no rest, day or night, feeling he was under the full power of the devil. He was utterly incapable of any business, so that he was obliged to shut up his shop. Thus he wandered up and down, in exquisite torture, for just eighteen months: And then, in a moment, the pressure was removed: He believed God had not forsaken him: His understanding was clear as ever; he resumed his employ, and followed it in the fear of God.

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The more I converse with this people, the more I am amazed. That God hath wrought a great work among them, is manifest; and yet the main of them, believers and unbelievers, are not able to give a rational account of the plainest principles of religion. It is plain, God begins his work at the heart; then “the inspiration of the Highest giveth understanding.”

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A gentlewoman called upon me, with her son, who (she informed me) was given over last summer, having long been ill of a wasting distemper, and expected death everyday. In this state he was one day in agony of prayer, when God revealed to him his pardoning love. He immediately declared this to his mother, telling her also, “I shall not die now: God has told me so.” And he recovered from that hour. About eight, several of us took boat for Newtown, six miles from Limerick. After dinner we took boat, in order to return. The wind was extremely high. We endeavored to cross over to the leeward side of the river; but it was not possible. The boat, being small and overloaded, was soon deep in water; the more so, because it leaked much, and the waves washed over us frequently; and there was no staying to empty it, all our men being obliged to row with all their strength. After they had toiled about an hour, the boat struck upon a rock, the point of which lay just under the water. It had four or five shocks, the wind driving us on before we could get clear. But our men wrought for life; and about six o’clock God brought us safe to Limerick.

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I preached at Mardyke in the evening, on, “God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself.” I never saw, even at Bristol, a congregation which was at once so numerous and so serious.

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I set out for Cork. We breakfasted at Brough, nine miles from Limerick. When I went into the kitchen, first one or two, then more and more, of the neighbors gathered about me, listening to every word. I should soon have had a congregation, but I had no time to stay. A mile or two beyond Killmallock, (once a large and strong city, now a heap of ruins,) we saw the body of a man lying dead in the highway, and many people standing and looking upon it. I stopped and spoke a few words. All listened attentively, and one who was on horseback rode on with us. We quickly fell into discourse. I soon perceived he was a Priest, and found he was a sensible man. I gave him a book or two at parting; and he dismissed me with, “God bless you!” earnestly repeated twice or thrice.

We stopped awhile at Killdorrery, in the afternoon, and took the opportunity of speaking closely to every one that understood English, and of giving them a few books. What a nation is this! Every man, woman, and child, (except a few of the great vulgar,) not only patiently, but gladly, “suffer the word of exhortation.”

Between six and seven we reached Rathcormuck. Mr. Lloyd read Prayers, and I preached. Even the Papists ventured to come to church for once, and were a very serious part of the congregation.

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I preached at eleven, and the hearts of the people seemed to be as melting wax. These are now “willing, in” this “day of his power.” But will not many of them harden their hearts again?

In the afternoon I waited on Col. Barry, and found him a serious and understanding man. And his long and painful illness seems to have been attended with good and happy fruit.

Our congregation in the evening was larger than ever; and never, since I came into this kingdom, was my soul so refreshed, as it was both in praying for them, and in calling them to accept the “redemption that is in Jesus.”

Just as we came out of church, Mr. Skelton came from Cork, and told me I had no place there yet; it being impossible for me to preach now, while the rioters filled the streets.

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I preached at nine, and about eleven took horse. Our way lay through Cork. We had scarce got into it, (though I had never been there till then,) before the streets, and doors, and windows, were full of people; but the mob had not time to gather together, till we were quite gone through the town. I rode on to Bandon, a town which is entirely inhabited by Protestants. I preached at seven, in the middle of the main street, on, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found.” Here were by far the largest congregations, both morning and evening, of any I had seen in Ireland.

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I was sent for by a Clergyman, who had come twelve miles on purpose to talk with me. We had no dispute, but simply endeavored to strengthen each other’s hands in God.

In the evening a gentlewoman informed me that Dr. B. had averred to her and many others,

1. That both John and Charles Wesley had been expelled the University of Oxford long ago.

2. That there was not a Methodist left in Dublin, or any where in Ireland, but Cork and Bandon; all the rest having been rooted out, by order of the Government.

3. That neither were there any Methodists left in England. And,

4. That it was all Jesuitism at the bottom. Alas, for poor Dr. B.! God be merciful unto thee, a sinner!

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At the request of many in the town, in the close of my evening sermon, I answered for myself; and have reason to believe, it was much blessed to many of the congregation.

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Being extremely hoarse, I could not speak without difficulty. However, I made shift to preach at nine, at two, and at five, the congregation continually increasing. I think the most general call of God to the inhabitants of Bandon was at or about this time.

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I rode to Blarney, three miles wide of Cork, where many of the society met me. I spent some time with them in exhortation and prayer, and then went on to Rathcormuck.

I was a little surprised at the acuteness of a gentleman here, who, in conversation with Colonel Barry, about late occurrences, said, he had heard, there was a people risen up that placed all religion in wearing long whiskers; and seriously asked, whether these were not the same who were called Methodists.

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I set out early with Mr. Lloyd, and breakfasted at Mr. T.’s, at Castle Hyde. They both rode with me to Killdorrery: About one I preached to some stocks and stones at Brough; in the evening, to another sort of a congregation at Limerick, on, “Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous.” Four comfortable days I spent with this lively people, the like to whom I have not found in all the kingdom. Monday, 12. I had appointed to take horse at four, that I might have time to preach at Nenagh, but no horses came till seven. At four I walked forward: After resting awhile at Tullah, I walked on, till an honest man overtaking me, desired me to ride behind him. With this help I came to Nenagh before eleven, preached there at twelve, and at Birr in the evening.

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We rode over to Gloster, a beautiful seat, built by an English gentleman, who had scarce finished his house, and laid out his gardens, when he was called to his everlasting home. Sir L—— P—— and his lady dined with us, whether coming by accident or design I know not. About five I preached in the stately saloon, to a little company of plain, serious people; the fine ones looking on, and some of them seeming to be a little affected. I expounded at Birr about seven, in the strongest manner I could, the story of Dives and Lazarus.

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We designed to dine at Ferbane, about twelve miles from Birr. We stopped at the first inn in the town; but they did not care to entertain heretics; neither did the people at the second inn: I alighted at the third, and went in, without asking any questions. Here I met with a woman very sick; and very serious. Some of her neighbors quickly gathered about us, and we endeavored to improve the opportunity. After some time spent in close conversation and prayer, we parted in much love.

About seven I preached at Athlone. It being the time of the General Review, abundance of soldiers and many Officers were present. They all behaved with the utmost decency. Bat a gentleman of the town did not; which had like to have cost him dear. Many swords were drawn; but the Officers interposed, and it went no farther.

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The wind being very tempestuous in the evening, I preached in our new built House. Toward the close of the sermon, I asked, “Which of yon will give yourself, soul and body, to God?” One cried out, with a cry that almost shook the House, “O, I will, I will.” And as soon as she could stand, she came forth in the midst, to witness it before all the congregation. It was Mrs. Glass. Her words pierced like lightning. Presently another witnessed the same resolution. And not long after, one who had been sorrowing as without hope, Mrs. Meecham, lifted up her head with joy, and continued singing and praising God to the dawn of the next day. Perceiving this was an acceptable time, I laid aside my design of meeting the society, and continued in prayer with the whole congregation; all our hearts being as the heart of one man.

When I had at length pronounced the blessing, no man stirred, but each stayed in his place till I walked through them. I was soon called back by one crying out, “My God! My God! thou hast forgotten me.” Having spoken this, she sunk to the earth. We called upon God in her behalf. The cries both of her and of several others, mourning after God, redoubled. But we continued wrestling with God in prayer, till he gave us an answer of peace.

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I preached at five, and about two on the Connaught side of the river; thence I hastened to Aghrim, and endeavored to awaken a serious but sleepy congregation.

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I rode over to Ahaskra, and thence to Mr. Mahon’s, at Castle Garth. I had much conversation with Mr. M——, and was much in doubt, from the account she gave of her own experience, whether she had not been justified many years, though she knew it not by that name. I preached at Ahaskra at six, both in the evening and in the morning; on Tuesday evening at Athlone. I then met the society, where one, and another, and another cried aloud for mercy. We called upon God, till several of them found mercy, and praised him with a good courage. I think more found peace with God in these four days, than in sixteen months before.

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I rode to Tyrrel’s Pass; but did not find that fervor of spirit in the congregation which was among them the last year: Yet a few there were who were still pressing on to the mark.

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I preached at noon at a village three miles from Tyrrel’s Pass; in the evening at Tullamore, and on Friday morning and evening.

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I rode to Mount Mellick, and dined with Joseph Fry, late a Quaker. Abundance of people were at the preaching in the evening, and all seemed to give earnest attention.

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I preached at eight to a still increasing congregation; and God’s word was as a two-edged sword. I rode thence to Portarlington, a town inhabited chiefly by French. A Clergyman there received me gladly. Some time before, a gentleman of Mount Mellick had desired him to preach against the Methodists. He said, he could not, till he knew what they were; in order to which, he came soon after and heard Mr. Larwood. And from that time, instead of preaching against them, he spoke for them, wherever he came.

As soon as we came out of church I went straight to the market-house, and the whole congregation followed me. I had not seen in all Ireland so glittering a company before, unless a St. Mary’s church, in Dublin; and yet all of them, high and low, behaved in such a manner as became His presence before whom they stood.

Thence I rode two miles farther, to Mr. L.’s house, at Closeland, near Ballybrittas. It rained the whole time that I was preaching: But the congregation regarded it no more than I did; though I was thoroughly wet before I had done, the shower driving full in my face.

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We had a blessed opportunity at Mount Mellick in the evening, while I was explaining the covenant God hath made with us. The same spirit continued with us at the meeting of the society; so that my voice could not be heard for the voice of those who cried for mercy, or praised the God of their salvation.

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I talked two hours with J—— Str——n, a Quaker. He spoke in the very spirit and language wherein poor Mr. Hall used to speak, before he made shipwreck of the grace of God. I found it good for me to be with him: It enlivened and strengthened my soul. I rode in the afternoon to Closeland, and preached in the evening and morning to a people earnestly desirous of pleasing God.

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I rode to Portarlington again, and preached to a larger congregation than before. They all seemed to hear, not only with strong desire, but with understanding also.

I afterwards explained to them the nature of a society; and desired any who were willing so to unite together, to speak to me severally. Above three score did so the same day.

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I preached at Mount Mellick. Sunday, 2. I preached at eight in Portarlington, and again at two. I scarce knew how to leave off; all the people seemed to be so deeply affected. The society now contained above one hundred members, full of zeal and good desires; and in one week the face of the whole town is changed. Open wickedness is not seen: The fear of God is on every side; and rich and poor ask, “What must I do to be saved?” And how long (I thought with myself) will this continue? In most, only till the fowls of the air come and devour the seed. Many of the rest, when persecution or reproach begins, will immediately be offended and in the small remainder, some will fall off, either through other desires, or the cares of the world, or the deceitfulness of riches.

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I preached at Edinderry, and on Tuesday morning and evening. Almost every person who was present at the meeting of the society appeared to be broken in pieces. A cry went up on every side, till Joseph Fry, once as eminent a sinner as even Joseph Fry, of Mount Mellick, and since as eminent an instance of the grace of God, broke out into prayer. It was not long before praise and prayer were mixed together: And shortly after, prayer was swallowed up in the voice of praise and thanksgiving.

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I returned to Dublin. Sunday, 9. I preached on the Green both morning and afternoon; and the congregation was considerably larger than any I had seen in Dublin before.

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Being one of the grand Irish festivals, by reason of “the Breach (that is, Battle) of Aghrim,” we had a very large congregation, to whom I showed “what reward” they had given “unto the Lord for all his benefits.” I expected much of their usual courtesy from the mob when we came out. But I walked through them all in perfect peace, none molesting us, either by word or deed.

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Mr. Miller, the Lutheran Minister, informed me, that in a collection of Tracts, published at Buding, Count Z.’s Brethren had printed several passages of my Journal, and whatever else they could glean up, which tended to prejudice the Lutherans against the Methodists. Was this merely to show their goodwill, or to obviate my testimony against themselves?

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I finished the translation of “Martin Luther’s Life.” Doubtless he was a man highly favored of God, and a blessed instrument in his hand. But O! what pity that he had no faithful friend! None that would, at all hazards, rebuke him plainly and sharply, for his rough, untraceable spirit, and bitter zeal for opinions, so greatly obstructive of the work of God!

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I saw Dr. Stephen’s Hospital, far cleaner and sweeter than any I had seen in London, and the Royal Hospital for old soldiers, standing on the top of an hill, overlooking Phoenix Park. All the buildings are kept not only in good repair, but likewise exactly clean. The hall is exceeding, grand: The chapel far better finished than any thing of the kind in Dublin. O what is wanting to make these men happy? Only the knowledge and the love of God.

I had now an opportunity of inquiring into the real state of the late transactions at Cork; an account of which is subjoined, being the extracts of some papers which were about this time put into my hands. THOMAS JONES, of Cork, Merchant, deposes: —

That on May 3, 1749, Nicholas Butler, ballad singer, came before the house of this deponent, and assembled a large mob: That this deponent went to Daniel Crone, Esq., then Mayor of Cork, and desired that he would put a stop to these riots; asking, at the same time, whether he gave the said Butler leave to go about in this manner: That Mr. Mayor said, he neither gave him leave, neither did he hinder him: That in the evening Butler gathered a larger mob than before, and went to the house where the people called Methodists were assembled to hear the word of God, and, as they came out, threw dirt, and hurt several of them.

That on May 4, this deponent, with some others, went to the Mayor, and told what had been done, adding, “If your Worship pleases to speak only three words to Butler, it will be all over:” That the Mayor gave his word and honor there should be no more of it, he would put an entire stop to it: That, notwithstanding, a larger mob than ever came to the house the same evening: That they threw much dirt and many stones at the people, both while they were in the house and when they came out: That the mob then fell upon them, both on men and women, with clubs, hangers, and swords; so that many of them were much wounded, and lost a considerable quantity of blood.

That on May 5, this deponent informed the Mayor of all, and also that Butler had openly declared, there should be a greater mob than ever there was that night: That the Mayor promised he would prevent it: That in the evening Butler did bring a greater mob than ever: That this deponent, hearing the Mayor designed to go out of the way, set two men to watch him; and when the riot was begun went to the alehouse and inquired for him: That, the woman of the house denying he was there, this deponent insisted he was, declared he would not go till he had seen him, and began searching the house: That Mr. Mayor then appearing, he demanded his assistance, to suppress a riotous mob: That when the Mayor came in sight of them, he beckoned Butler, who immediately came down from the place where he stood: That the Mayor then went with this deponent and looked on many of the people covered with dirt and blood: That some of them still remained in the house, fearing their lives, till James Chatterton and John Reilly, Esquires, Sheriffs of Cork, and Hugh Millard, junior, Esquire, Alderman, turned them out to the mob, and nailed up the doors.

2. ELIZABETH HOLLERAN, of Cork, deposes: —

That on May 3, as she was going down Castle Street, she saw Nicholas Butler on a table, with ballads in one hand and a Bible in the other: That she expressed some concern thereat; on which Sheriff Reilly ordered his Bailiff to carry her to Bridewell: That afterward the Bailiff came and said, his master ordered she should be carried to gaol: And that she continued in gaol from May 3, about eight in the evening, till between ten and twelve on May 5.

3. JOHN STOCKDALE, of Cork, tallow chandler, deposes: — That on May 5, while he and others were assembled to hear the word of God, Nicholas Butler came down to the house where they were, with a very numerous mob: That when this deponent came out, they threw all manner of dirt, and abundance of stones at him: That they then beat, bruised, and cut him in several places: That seeing his wife on the ground, and the mob abusing her still, he called out, and besought them not to kill his wife: That on this one of them struck him with a large stick, as did also many others, so that he was hurt in several parts, and his face in a gore of blood.

4. DANIEL SULLIVAN, of Cork, baker, deposes: —

That everyday but one from the 6th to the 16th of May, Nicholas Butler assembled a riotous mob before this deponent’s house: That they abused all who came into the shop, to the great damage of this deponent’s business: That on or about the 15th, Butler swore he would bring a mob the next day and pull down his house: That accordingly, on the 16th, he did bring a large mob, and beat or abused all that came to the house: That the Mayor walked by while the mob was so employed, but did not hinder them: That afterwards they broke his windows, threw dirt and stones into his shop, and spoiled a great quantity of his goods.

5. DANIEL SULLIVAN is ready to depose farther: —

That from the 16th of May to the 28th, the mob gathered everyday before his house: That On Sunday, the 28th, Butler swore, they would come the next day and pull down the house of that heretic dog; and called aloud to the mob, “Let the heretic dogs indict you; I will bring you off without a farthing cost.”

That accordingly, on May 29, Butler came with a greater mob than before: That he went to the Mayor and begged him to come, which he for some time refused to do; but after much importunity, rose up, and walked with him down the street: That when they were in the midst of the mob, the Mayor said aloud, “It is your own fault, for entertaining these Preachers. If you will turn them out of your house, I will engage there shall be no harm done; but if you will not turn them out, you must take what you will get:” That upon this the mob set up an huzza, and threw stones faster than before: That he said, “This is fine usage under a Protestant Government; if I had a Priest saying Mass in every room of it, my house would not be touched:” That the Mayor replied, “The Priests are tolerated, but you are not; you talk too much; go in, and shut up your doors:” That seeing no remedy, he did so; and the mob continued breaking the windows, and throwing stones in, till near twelve at night. That on May 31, the said Sullivan, and two more, went and informed the Mayor of what the mob was then doing: That it was not without great importunity they brought him as far as the exchange: That he would go no further, nor send any help, though some that were much bruised and wounded came by: That some hours after, when the mob had finished their work, he sent a party of soldiers to guard the walls.

6. JOHN STOCKDALE deposes farther: —

That on May 31, he with others was quietly hearing the word of God, when Butler and his mob came down to the house: That as they came out, the mob threw showers of dirt and stones: That many were hurt, many beat, bruised, and cut; among whom was this deponent, who was so bruised and cut, that the effusion of blood from his head could not be stopped for a considerable time.

7. JOHN M’NERNY, of Cork, deposes: —

That on the 31st of May last, as this deponent with others was hearing a sermon, Butler came down with a large mob: That the stones and dirt coming in fast, obliged the congregation to shut the doors, and lock themselves in: That the mob broke open the door; on which this deponent endeavored to escape through a window: That not being able to do it, he returned into the house, where he saw the mob tear up the pews, benches, and floor; part of which they afterwards burnt in the open street, and carried away part for their own use.

8. DANIEL SULLIVAN is ready to depose farther: —

That Butler, with a large mob, went about from street to street, and from house to house, abusing, threatening, and beating whomsoever he pleased, from June 1st to the 16th, when they assaulted, bruised, and cut Ann Jenkins; and from the 16th to the 30th, when a woman whom they had beaten, miscarried, and narrowly escaped with life.

Some of the particulars were as follows:

9. THOMAS BURNET, of Cork, nailor, deposes: —

That on or about the 12th of June, as this deponent was at work in his master’s shop, Nicholas Butler came with a great mob to the door, and seeing this deponent, told him he was an heretic dog, and his soul was burning in hell: That this deponent asking, “Why do you use me thus?” Butler took up a stone, and struck him so violently on the side, that he was thereby rendered incapable of working for upwards of a week: That he hit this deponent’s wife with another stone, without any kind of provocation, which so hurt her that she was obliged to take to her bed, and has not been right well since.

10. ANN COOSHEA, of Cork, deposes: —

That on or about the 12th of June, as she was standing at her father’s door, Nicholas Butler, with a riotous mob, began to abuse this deponent and her family, calling them heretic bitches, saying they were damned, and all their souls were in hell: That then, without any provocation, he took up a great stone, and threw it at this deponent, which struck her on the head with such force, that it deprived her of her senses for some time.

11. ANN WRIGHT, of Cork, deposes: —

That on or about the 12th of June, as this deponent was in her own house, Butler and his mob came before her door, calling her and her family heretic bitches, and swearing he would make her house hotter than hell fire: That he threw dirt and stones at them, hit her in the face, dashed all the goods about which she had in her window, and, she really believes, would have dashed out her brains, had she not quitted her shop, and fled for her life.

12. MARGARET GRIFFIN, of Cork, deposes: —

That on the 24th of June, as this deponent was about her business, Butler and his mob came up, took hold on her, tore her clothes, struck her several times, and cut her mouth: That after she broke from him, he and his mob pursued her to her house, and would have broke in, had not some neighbors interposed: That he had beat and abused her several times before, and one of those times to such a degree, that she was all in a gore of blood, and continued spitting blood for several days after.

13. JACOB CONNOR, clothier, of Cork, deposes: —

That on the 24th of June, as he owns employed in his lawful business, Butler and his mob came up, and without any manner of provocation fell upon him: That they beat him till they caused such an effusion of blood, as could not be stopped for a considerable time; and that he verily believes, had not a Gentleman interposed, they would have killed him on the spot.

14. ANN HUGHES, of Cork, deposes: —

That on the 29th of June, she asked Nicholas Butler, why he broke open her house on the 21st: That hereon he called her many abusive names, (being attended with his mob,) dragged her up and down, tore her clothes in pieces, and with his sword stabbed and cut her in both her arms.

15. DANIEL FILTS, blacksmith, of Cork, deposes: —

That on the 29th of June, Butler and a riotous mob came before his door, called him many abusive names, drew his hanger, and threatened to stab him: That he and his mob the next day assaulted the house of this deponent with drawn swords; and that he is persuaded, had not one who came by prevented, they would have taken away his life.

16. MARY FULLER, of Cork, deposes: —

That on the 30th of June, Butler, at the head of his mob, came, between nine and ten at night, to the deponent’s shop, with a naked sword in his hand: That he swore, he would cleave the deponent’s skull, and immediately made a full stroke at her head: Whereupon she was obliged to fly for her life, leaving her shop and goods to the mob, many of which they hacked and hewed with their swords, to her no small loss and damage.

17. HENRY DUNKLE, joiner, of Cork, deposes: —

That on the 30th of June, as he was standing at widow Fuller’s shop window, he saw Butler, accompanied with a large mob, who stopped before her shop: That after he had grossly abused her, he made a full stroke with his hanger at her head; which must have cleft her in two, had not this deponent received the guard of the hanger on his shoulder: That presently after, the said Butler seized upon this deponent: That he seized him by the collar with one hand, and with the other holden the hanger over his head, calling him all manner of names, and tearing his shirt and clothes; and that, had it not been for the timely assistance of some neighbors, he verily believes he should have been torn to pieces.

18. MARGARET TREMNELL, of Cork, deposes: —

That On the 30th of June, John Austin and Nicholas Butler, with a numerous mob, came to her shop: That, after calling her many names, Austin struck her with his club On the right arm, so that it has been black ever since from the shoulder to the elbow: That Butler came next, and with a great stick struck her a violent blow across the back: That many of them drew their swords, which they carried under their coats, and cut and hacked her goods, part of which they threw out into the street, while others of them threw dirt and stones into the shop, to the considerable damage of her goods, and loss of this deponent.

It was not for those who had any regard either to their persons or goods, to oppose Mr. Butler after this. So the poor people patiently suffered, till long after this, whatever he and his mob were pleased to inflict upon them. AN EXTRACT

OF THE

REV. MR. JOHN WESLEY’S JOURNAL

FROM JULY 20, 1749, TO OCTOBER 30, 1751.

————

NUMBER VIII

—————

JOURNAL

FROM JULY 20, 1749, TO OCTOBER 30, 1751.

————

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About ten at night we embarked for Bristol, in a small sloop. I soon fell asleep. When I awaked in the morning, we were many leagues from land, in a rough, pitching sea. Toward evening the wind turned more against us, so that we made little way. About ten we were got between the Bishop and his Clerks (the rocks so called) and the Welsh shore; the wind blew fresh from the south; so that the Captain, fearing we should be driven on the rocky coast, steered back again to sea. On Saturday morning we made the Bishop and his Clerks again, and beat to and fro all the day. About eight in the evening it blew hard, and we had a rolling sea: Notwithstanding which, at four on Sunday morning, we were within sight of Minehead. The greatest part of the day we had a dead calm; but in the evening the wind sprung up, and carried us into Kingroad. On Monday morning we landed at the Quay in Bristol.

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I rode over to Kingswood, and inquired particularly into the state of our school there. I was concerned to find that several of the Rules had been habitually neglected: I judged it necessary, therefore, to lessen the family; suffering none to remain therein, who were not clearly satisfied with them, and determined to observe them all.

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I read Mr. Law “On the Spirit of Prayer.” There are many masterly strokes therein, and the whole is lively and entertaining; but it is another Gospel. For if God was never angry, (as this Tract asserts,) he could never be reconciled; and, consequently, the whole Christian doctrine of reconciliation by Christ falls to the ground at once. An excellent method of converting Deists, by giving up the very essence of Christianity!

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Mr. Grimshaw and Mr. B—— assisted my brother and me at Kingswood. How many there are that run well for a season! But “he that endureth to the end shall be saved.”

I received a letter about this time from Ireland, a part of which follows: — “DEAR SIR, Tyrrel’s Pass, July 24, 1749

MANY have found a sense of the pardoning love of God at Athlone since you left it; and the society in general are on the stretch for the kingdom of God. The Lord has kindled a fire in Aghrim likewise. The last time but one that I was there, several were struck with deep convictions, which continued till I came again. While I was meeting the society there, the Governess of Mr. S——’s children was struck to the ground, and in a short time filled with ‘peace and joy in the Ho]y Ghost.’ The next morning his Steward was cut to the heart, and fell upon his knees in the midst of the sermon; as did Mr. S—— himself, together with his wife, and great part of the congregation. The Steward went home full of peace and love. This has set the whole society on fire; so that now every one is crying out, ‘What must I do to be saved?’

“The same fire is kindled at Portarlington. I went there the next Sunday after you. One then found a sense of God’s learning love; and last Saturday in the society some cried out, and some fell to the ground, three of whom found peace to their souls.

“I was at Mount Mellick likewise the next Sunday after you, and the power of God was present to heal. Two that were heavy laden, found rest that night. The next time we met, we scarce knew how to part. We continued singing and praying till five persons received a clear manifestation of the love of God. Another found the same blessing while I was preaching this morning. We spent some time afterwards at James Moss’s house, in praying with some that were under deep convictions; and two of them went home rejoicing in God their Savior. I was now informed of two more that were rejoicing in God; so that in Mount Mellick twelve persons, in all, have found the ‘peace that passeth all understanding,’ since you left that place.

“I preached at Rahew likewise the week after you was there. The man of the house had fetched his mother from a considerable distance; she had never heard a Methodist Preacher before. She was soon cut to the heart, and cried out aloud. One behind her bid her fall upon her knees, which she presently did, and the whole house was as in one cry. I broke off my discourse, and began to pray, which I continued till I was so spent I could hardly speak. I went out to take a little breath, and came in again. She was crying out, ‘I am dropping, dropping into hell; its mouth is open, ready to swallow me up.’ I went to prayer again; and before we had done, God spoke peace to her soul. She was filled with joy unspeakable, and could but just say, ‘I am in a new world! I am in a new world!’ “From the whole, I cannot but observe two things:

1. What a blessing it is, when any who finds that peace, declares it openly before all the people, that we may break off and praise God. If this was always done, it would be good for many souls. The first that found it on Sunday evening, spoke before all; and we praised God. The moment she spoke, another, and then another, found peace; and each of them spoke aloud, and made the fire run through the whole congregation. I would observe,

2. The woman at Rahew had never before seen any one in the like trouble. Therefore she could not cry out because she had heard others do it; but because she could not help it; because she felt the word of God ‘sharper than a two-edged sword:’ And generally, the sharper the convictions are, the sooner they are over.

“This is from your son in the Gospel,

“J. R.”

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I spent a solemn hour with our children at Kingswood. After having settled all things there and at Bristol, I returned to London, where I received a remarkable account from Cork. On August 19, twenty eight depositions were laid before the Grand Jury there, but they threw them all out; and at the same time made that memorable presentment, which is worthy to be preserved in the annals of Ireland, to all succeeding generations: —

“We filled and present Charles Wesley to he a person of ill fame, a vagabond, and a common disturber of His Majesty’s peace: and we pray he may be transported.

“We find and present James Williams, etc.

“We find and present Robert Swindle, etc.

“We find and present Jonathan Reeves, etc.

“We find and present John Larwood, etc.

“We find and present Joseph M’Auliff, etc.

“We find and present Charles Skaron, etc.

“We find and present William Tooker, etc.

“We find and present Daniel Sullivan to be a person of ill fame, a vagabond, and a common disturber of His Majesty’s peace; and we pray he may be transported.”

Daniel Sullivan was an honest baker, who had lived in Cork many years, I suppose in as good fame as any of his trade in the city; but he had entertained my brother, and several other Methodists; nay, and suffered them to preach in his house. The other names (only most of them miserably mangled and murdered) were designed for the names of eight Preachers who had been there.

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I left London, and in the evening came to Great Potton. About six I went out into the market-place, and called to a confused multitude, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near.” Great things were threatened, but nothing done. We had a quiet and comfortable meeting, and there was reason to hope that the word of God sunk into the hearts of many.

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Having appointed some from Grimsby to meet us this evening at Lincoln, (which we supposed to be within a day’s ride,) we set out an hour before day, and rode, with only an hour or two’s intermission, till above an hour after sunset; but we could reach no farther than Cold Harbor, six miles short of Ancaster. The next morning we rode on to Lincoln, but could hear nothing of our guides; so we determined, after waiting several hours, to make the best of our way to Epworth; where, the next evening, I enforced those awful words, “What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?”

I had the satisfaction about this time of an agreeable letter from a gentleman in Ireland, part of which is subjoined: —

“REVEREND SIR,

“YOUR favor of the 15th instant, I received the 22d. I am more satisfied than ever that you aim at nothing but what has an immediate tendency to the glory of God, and the salvation of mankind.

“I cannot help thinking that your design, considered in this light, (allowing even of some mistakes,) must be deemed very praiseworthy. As to myself, in particular, I must own it gives me infinite satisfaction to find that you have spoken to so good an effect in our town and neighborhood. My church is more frequented than ever it was; and I have the pleasure of seeing a greater decency, and more of zeal and attention, than I could have dared to promise myself; which has also this effect upon me, — that I find myself better disposed than ever to distribute to those who attend my ministry, such food as may yield them comfort here and happiness hereafter. I heartily wish this may continue; and that the people may not cool. If so, we may hope to see wickedness generally decline, and virtue and godliness take place. I see this work of yours, through God’s blessing, thus successfully carried on, without any ill will or jealousy; and could wish that all the Clergy were, in that respect, of the same mind with me. “Your society here keeps up well; and is, I believe, considerably increased since you left it. I frequently attend the preaching; and though I am much reflected on for it, this does not in any wise discourage me. While I am conscious to myself that I do no harm, I am careless of what men can say of me.

“Michael Poor, lately a Roman, who is now of your society, read his recantation on Sunday last. — Pray let us know when you or your brother intend for this kingdom and town: For be sure, none wish more sincerely to see and converse with you than I, who am sincerely, reverend and dear Sir,

“Your very affectionate brother and servant.

“August 29, 1749.”

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I spoke severally with the members of the society.

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I gathered up a few at Belton who did once run well, and seemed now resolved, no more to “forsake the assembling of” themselves “together.”

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At nine I preached at Misterton, to a very large and attentive congregation; between one and two, at Overthorp, near Haxey; and at Epworth, about five. In the intervals of preaching I spoke with the members of the society in each place; most of whom I found either already alive to God, or earnestly panting after him.

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We rode to Sykehouse; and on Tuesday, in the afternoon, reached Osmotherley.

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I reached Newcastle; and after resting a day, and preaching two evenings and two mornings, with such a blessing as we have not often found, on Friday set out to visit the northern societies. I began with that at Morpeth, where I preached at twelve, on one side of the market-place. It was feared the market would draw the people from the sermon; but it was just the contrary: They quitted their stalls, and there was no buying or selling till the sermon was concluded.

At Alnwick likewise I stood in the market-place in the evening, and exhorted a numerous congregation to be always ready for death, for judgment, for heaven. I felt what I spoke; as I believe did most that were present, both then and in the morning, while I besought them to “present” themselves, “a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God.”

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(I rode slowly forward to Berwick. I was myself much out of order; but I would not lose the opportunity of calling, in the evening, all that were “weary and heavy laden,” to Him who hath said, “I will give you rest.”

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I preached at eight, and at four in the afternoon; and in the hours between, spoke with the members of the society. I met them all at seven, and a glorious meeting it was. I forgot all my pain while we were praising God together; but after they were gone, I yielded to my friends, and determined to give myself a day’s rest. So I spent Monday, the 11th, in writing; only I could not refrain from meeting the society in the evening. The next evening God enabled me to speak searching words to an earnestly attentive congregation.

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After preaching at five, I visited many, both of the sick and well: Particularly, Robert Sutty, the first instrument in God’s hand of awakening many in this place, who, till then, slept in sin. But O! how changed! He seemed stripped both of his gifts and graces, and forsaken both of God and man.

I had a delightful opportunity, in the evening, of describing and comforting the “broken in heart.”

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Immediately after preaching, I took horse, and rode in a rough, stormy day to Alnwick. But before noon, it cleared up; so that I stood once more in the market-place, and called all to “come boldly to the throne of grace.”

Hence I rode to Alemouth, and labored to awaken a stupid, drowsy people, by preaching, both in the evening and the next morning, in the most convincing manner I could. For the present, they seemed to be deeply affected: God grant it may continue!

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I offered “the redemption which is in Jesus,” to a more lively congregation at Widdrington.

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I preached in Morpeth at noon; in Plessy about five; and then rode on to Newcastle.

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I preached, morning and evening, in the Castle Garth; and, on Wednesday, 20, set out for the western societies. In the evening, at Hinely Hill, our hearts were all melted down in considering our great High Priest; who, though he is gone into the heavens, is still sensibly “touched with the feeling of our infirmities.” A deep sense of his love constrained many to call upon him with “strong cries and tears;” and many others, though not in words, yet with groaning that could not be uttered.

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Moved by the pressing instances of Mr. Cownley, and convinced the providence of God called me thither, I left all my company, but Mr. Perronet, at Hinely Hill, and set out for Whitehaven. The next day I preached there in the market-place, to a multitude of people, on, “Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.” I saw they were moved, and resolved to improve the opportunity. So, after preaching, I desired those who determined to serve God, to meet me apart from the great congregation. To these I explained the design, nature, and use of Christian societies. Abundance were present again at five in the morning, though we had no room but the market-place. At three in the afternoon I preached at Hensingham, a large colliery, about a mile from the town. The eagerness of the people put me in mind of the early days at Kingswood. O why should we not be always what we were once? Why should any leave their first love? At six I preached again in Whitehaven, on, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden;” and at eight endeavored to could as many as desired it into a regular society.

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I began examining them one by one. At eight I preached at the Gins, another village, full of colliers, about half a mile from the town. The congregation was very large, and deeply attentive. Between one and two I preached again at Hensingham, to as many as my voice could command, on, “Repent ye, and believe the Gospel.” Thence I hastened to church; and in the midst of the Service I felt a sudden stroke. Immediately a shivering ran through me, and in a few minutes I was in a fever. I thought of taking a vomit immediately, and going to bed. But when I came from church, hearing there was a vast congregation in the market-place, I could not send them empty away. And while I was speaking to them, God remembered me, and strengthened me both in soul and body.

Reflecting on the manner of God’s working here, I could not but make the following remark: — The work in Whitehaven resembles that at Athlone more than does any other which I have seen in England. It runs with a swift and a wide stream; but it does not go deep. A considerable part of the town seems moved, but extremely few are awake; and scarce three have found a sense of the pardoning love of God, from the time of the first preaching to this day.

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Mr. Cownley returned to Newcastle. Both at the morning and evening preaching many seemed greatly affected: as also on Tuesday morning: But it soon died away, and they did not feel “the power of God unto salvation.”

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Having appointed, before I left Hinely Hill, to preach there again on Wednesday evening, I set out about two in the afternoon, though extremely weak, having had a flux for some days. But God renewed my strength, so that I felt less pain and weariness every hour. I had a solemn and delightful ride to Keswick, having my mind stayed on God.

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I took horse at half an hour past three. There was no moon, or stars, but a thick mist; so that I could see neither road, nor any thing else; but I went as right as if it had been noon day. When I drew nigh Penruddock Moor, the mist vanished, the stars appeared, and the morning dawned; so I imagined all the danger was past; but when I was on the middle of the moor, the mist fell again on every side, and I quickly lost my way. I lifted up my heart. Immediately it cleared up, and I soon recovered the high road. On Alstone Moor I missed my way again; and what, I believe, no stranger has done lately, rode through all the bogs, without any stop, till I came to the vale, and thence to Hinely Hill. A large congregation met in the evening. I expounded part of the twentieth chapter of the Revelation. But O what a time was this! It was as though we were already standing before the “great white throne.” God was no less present with us in prayer; when one just by me cried with a loud and bitter cry. I besought God to give us a token that all things should work together for good. He did so: He wrote pardon upon her heart; and we all rejoiced unto him with reverence.

Thursday, 28, we set apart for fasting and prayer: John Brown and Mr. Hopper were with me. It was a day that ought not to be forgotten. We had all free access to the throne of grace; and a firm, undoubting confidence, that He in whom we believed would do all things well.

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I set out again for Whitehaven. The storm was exceeding high, and drove full in my face, so that it was not without difficulty I could sit my horse; particularly as I rode over the broad, bare backs of those enormous mountains which lay in my way. However, I kept on as I could, till I came to the brow of Hatside. So thick a fog then fell, that I was quickly out of all road, and knew not which way to turn. But I knew where help was to be found, in either great difficulties or small. The fog vanished in a moment, and I saw Gamblesby at a distance (the town to which I was going). I set out early on Saturday, the 30th, and in the afternoon reached Whitehaven.

About this time I was refreshed with a friendly letter from an excellent man, whom I had not heard from for several years: Part of it was as follows: —

“Ebenezer, in Georgia, July 25, 1749.

“REV. AND DEAR SIR,

“THE sincere love to your worthy person and faithful performance of your holy office, which the Lord kindled in my heart, during your presence at Savannah, hath not been abated, but rather increased, since the providence of God called you from us, and showed you another field for the labor of your ministry.

“You are pleased, in your last letter to Mr. Brown, of Savannah, to remember Ebenezer kindly; and desired to know what is the present state of our settlement. Though we have felt greatly the inconveniences of the long war, yet there are great alterations for the better in our town and plantations, since the time you was pleased to visit us. We have two large houses for public worship; one in town, the other in the middle of our plantations; two schools, in the same places; two corn mills; one pounding mill for rice, and one saw mill. In the first quantity of boards we sawed, we were cheated by an impostor, who undertook to ship them off to the West Indies. But we did not lose our courage, though we met with almost insuperable difficulties, till our circumstances were mended by the hand of the Almighty. We are still in the favor of the honorable Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge; as also of many good Christians in Germany; who love us, pray fervently for us, and contribute all in their power to promote our spiritual and temporal prosperity.

“Through very hard labor, several of our people have left us, and are departed to a better country, in heaven; and the rest are weak and feeble in body, and not able to hold out long, unless relief is sent them by an embarkation of faithful servants from Germany. Besides widows and orphans, we have several that want assistance toward their maintenance; and this our good God hath sent us heretofore from Europe. “After my dear fellow laborer, Mr. Gronaw, died in peace, above three years ago, the Lord was pleased to send me another; who likewise exactly follows the footsteps of his Savior; to my great comfort, and the great benefit of our congregation. The Lord hath graciously joined us in mutual love and harmony in our congregations; and hath not permitted the Hernhuters, (falsely called Moravians,) nor other false Teachers, to creep in among us. We are hated by wicked people, which prevents their settling among us; though we love them sincerely, and would have as many settle among us as would keep such orders as Christianity and the laws of England require them to do. This is all I thought it necessary to acquaint you with, for the present; being, with due regard and cordial wishes for your prosperity in soul and body, reverend and dear Sir, “Yours most affectionately,

“JOHN MARTIN BOLZIUS.”

What a truly Christian piety and simplicity breathe in these lines! And yet this very man, when I was at Savannah, did I refuse to admit to the Lord’s Table, because he was not baptized; that is, not baptized by a minister who had been episcopally ordained.

Can any one carry High Church zeal higher than this? And how well have I been since beaten with mine own staff!

The Hernhuters, as he terms them, now published the following in the Daily Post: —

“To the Author of the Daily Post.

“SIR,

“WHOSOEVER reckons that those persons in England who are usually called Moravians, and those who are called Methodists, are the same, he is mistaken. That they are not the same people is manifest enough, out of the declaration of Louis, late Bishop and Trustee of the Brethren’s Church, dated at London, March, 1743; which I here send you, as I find it printed in a Collection of original Papers of the Brethren, printed at Budingen, called the ‘Budingen Samlung.’ Vol. 3., page 852.”

The Methodists, so called, heartily thank brother Louis for his Declaration; as they count it no honor to be in any connection either with him or his Brethren.

But why is he ashamed of his name? The Count’s name is Ludwig, not Louis; no more than mine is Jean or Giovanni.

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I preached at the Gins about eight, to the usual congregation; and surely God was in the midst of them, breaking the hearts of stone. I was greatly comforted at church, not only from the Lessons, both morning and afternoon, and in the Lord’s Supper, but even in the Psalms which were sung both at Morning and Evening Service. At two I explained to an earnest congregation, at Hensingham, the “redemption that is in Jesus Christ;” and at five exhorted a large multitude at Whitehaven, with strong and pressing words, to examine whether they had sufficient grounds for calling either themselves or their neighbors Christians.

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The darkness and rain were little hindrance, either to me or the congregation, at five in the morning; (though we were all, as usual, in the open air;) while I was explaining and applying those words, “God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself.” I preached in the evening, on, “Let us come boldly to the throne of race;” and then gave my parting exhortation to the society, now consisting of more than two hundred members. Just before I began preaching, I received a letter from Mr. Whitefield, desiring me to meet him at Leeds, on Wednesday evening; the very time at which I before purposed to be there. So we set out early on Tuesday, 3; one of our brethren, who was a Yorkshireman, undertaking to put us into the way. He rode a little and a little farther, till we came to Old Hutton, above fifty miles from Whitehaven. We were dropping wet, having had heavy rain for several hours; but we soon got into warm beds, and all was well.

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Our guide was resolved to go a little farther still; so we set out together, and rode on together to Leeds; though it was a long day’s journey, finding us full employ from five in the morning till nine at night.

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Mr. Whitefield preached at five in the morning. About five in the evening he preached at Birstal; and God gave him both strong and persuasive words; such as, I trust, sunk deep into many hearts.

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I preached at five, and then returned to my brother, whom I had left at Leeds. At noon we spent all hour with several of our Preachers, in exhortation and prayer. About one I preached to a crowded audience of high and low, rich and poor; but their number was abundantly enlarged at five; as was my strength both of soul and body. I cried aloud to them all, to look unto Jesus; and scarce knew when to leave off.

I then waited upon Mr. M. for an hour. O how could I delight in such an acquaintance! But the will of God be done! Let me “acquaint” myself “with Him,” and it is enough.

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I rode in the afternoon to Bramley, and preached to a large and quiet congregation. Great attention appeared in every face; but no shaking among the dry bones yet.

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I preached in Leeds at seven, and between one and two began preaching at Birstal; but my voice (though I think it had not been stronger for some years) would not reach two thirds of the congregation. I am afraid it was the same case at Leeds, when I preached at four; though I spoke with all the strength I had. Who would have expected such au inconveniency as this, after we had been twelve years employed in the work? Surely none will only ascribe the number of the hearers to the novelty of field preaching.

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Having promised to visit Newcastle again, I set out early, and came thither the next day. I was now satisfied that God had sent Mr. Whitefield thither in an acceptable time; many of those who had little thought of God before, still retaining the impressions they received from him.

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I rejoiced to find that God was still carrying on his work. Both in the morning and evening the hearts of many burned within them, while they were assembled in his name; and they felt his word to be “the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.”

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At the meeting of the Select Society, such a flame broke out as was never there before. We felt such a love to each other as we could not express; such a spirit of supplication, and such a glad acquiescence in all the providences of God, and confidence that He would withhold from us no good thing.

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The rain constrained me to preach in the house both morning and afternoon; but I could not repine; for God was there, and spoke peace to many hearts.

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I preached at four, to a large congregation, and rode to Sandbutton that night. Two or three miles short of it we overtook a man, whom a woman, riding behind him, stayed upon his horse. On my saying, “We ought to thank God it is a fair night;” “O Sir,” said the man, “so we ought; and I thank him for every thing. I thank him that I am alive; and that the bull which tossed me today only broke two or three of my ribs; for he might have broke my neck.”

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In the afternoon we came to Leeds. I preached on, “I am the Resurrection and the Life;” afterwards spent a solemn hour with the society, and commended them to the grace of God.

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I rode, at the desire of John Bennet, to Rochdale, in Lancashire. As soon as ever we entered the town, we found the streets lined on both sides with multitudes of people, shouting, cursing, blaspheming, and gnashing upon us with their teeth. Perceiving it would not be practicable to preach abroad, I went into a large room, open to the street, and called aloud, “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts.” The word of God prevailed over the fierceness of man. None opposed or interrupted; and there was a very remarkable change in the behavior of the people, as we afterwards went through the town.

We came to Bolton about five in the evening. We had no sooner entered the main street, than we perceived the lions at Rochdale were lambs in comparison of those at Bolton. Such rage and bitterness I scarce ever saw before, in any creatures that bore the form of men. They followed us in full cry to the house where we went; and as soon as we were gone in, took possession of all the avenues to it, and filled the street from one end to the other. After some time the waves did not roar quite so loud. Mr. P—— thought he might then venture out. They immediately closed in, threw him down, and rolled him in the mire; so that when he scrambled from there, and got into the house again, one could scarce tell what or who he was. When the first stone came among us through the window, I expected a shower to follow; and the rather, because they had now procured a bell to call their whole forces together. But they did not design to carry on the attack at a distance: Presently one ran up and told us the mob had burst into the house: He added, that they had got J—— B—— in the midst of them. They had; and he laid hold on the opportunity to tell them of “the terrors of the Lord.” Meantime D—— T—— engaged another part of them with smoother and softer words. Believing the time was now come, I walked down into the thickest of them. They had now filled all the rooms below. I called for a chair. The winds were hushed, and all was calm and still. My heart was filled with love, my eyes with tears, and my mouth with arguments. They were amazed, they were ashamed, they were melted down, they devoured every word. What a turn was this! O how did God change the counsel of the old Ahithophel into foolishness; and bring all the drunkards, swearers, Sabbath breakers, and mere sinners in the place, to hear of his plenteous redemption!

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Abundantly more than the house could contain were present at five in the morning, to whom I was constrained to speak a good deal longer than I am accustomed to do. Perceiving they still wanted to hear, I promised to preach again at nine, in a meadow near the town. Thither they flocked from every sisle; and I called aloud, “All things are ready; come unto the marriage.” O how have a few hours changed the scene! We could now walk through every street of the town, and none molested or opened his mouth, unless to thank or blesses.

At one I preached at Shackerley, four miles from Bolton, and thence rode on to Davy Hulme. Here I received a letter from Richard Cawley, of Alpraham, with an invitation from the Minister of Actou. After preaching in the morning at Davy Hulme, and about ten at Boothbank, in the afternoon, Friday, 20, I rode on, and, between four and five, came to Alpraham. A large congregation was waiting for me, whom I immediately called to seek God “while he may be found.” Many came again at five in the morning, and seemed just ready not only to “repent,” but also “believe the Gospel.”

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By conversing with several here, I found we were not now among publicans and sinners, but among those who, a while ago, supposed they needed no repentance. Many of them had been long “exercising themselves unto godliness,” in much the same manner as we did at Oxford; but they were not thoroughly willing to renounce their own, and accept “the righteousness which is of God by faith.”

A gentleman, who had several years before heard me preach at Bath, sending to invite me to dinner, I had three or four hours’ serious conversation with him. O, who maketh me to differ? Every objection he made to the Christian System has passed through my mind also: But God did not suffer them to rest there, or to remove me from the hope of the Gospel.

I was not surprised when word was brought, that the Vicar of Acton had not the courage to stand to his word: Neither was I troubled. I love indeed to preach in a church: But God can work wherever it pleaseth him.

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I preached at seven in Richard Cawley’s house; and, about one, at Little Acton. We then rode on to Woor; and the next afternoon came, wet and weary enough, to Wednesbury. I hoped for a few hours’ rest here; but it was a vain hope; for notice had been given that I would preach at Bilbrook in the evening; so I had seven or eight miles to ride back. I preached about six, and again in the morning.

On Tuesday, 24, about noon, we came to Dudley. At one I went to the market-place, and proclaimed the name of the Lord to an huge, unwieldy, noisy multitude; the greater part of whom seemed in no wise to know “wherefore they were come together.” I continued speaking about half an hour, and many grew serious and attentive, till some of Satan’s servants pressed in, raging and blaspheming, and throwing whatever came to hand. I then retired to the house from which I came. The multitude poured after, and covered over with dirt many that were near me; but I had only a few specks. I preached in Wednesbury at four, to a nobler people, and was greatly comforted among them: So I was likewise in the morning,

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How does a praying congregation strengthen the Preacher! After preaching again at one, I rode to Birmingham. This had been long a dry uncomfortable place; so I expected little good here: But I was happily disappointed. Such a congregation I never saw there before: Not a scoffer, not a trifler, not an inattentive person (so far as I could discern) among them; and seldom have I known so deep, solemn a sense of the power, and presence, and love of God. The same blessing we had at the meeting of the society; and again at the morning preaching. Will then God at length cause even this barren wilderness to blossom and bud as the rose?

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We came to know between nine and ten, a furious, turbulent place from the beginning. I began preaching directly in the yard of the inn, to a few gaping, staring people, before the mob could assemble. They increased apace, and were tolerably attentive. In the afternoon we rode to Evesham, where I preached in the evening and morning, and then went forward to Stanley. The congregation was larger than could have been expected, upon a few hours’ warning; and they all appeared both glad to hear, and willing to embrace, the word of reconciliation. In the evening I preached at Wall Bridge, near Stroud; and the next day, Saturday, 28, reached Bristol.

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I preached both at Kingswood and Bristol, on, “Ye have need of patience.” It was more particularly at Bristol that God refreshed my soul, and applied what I spoke to my own heart. .Mon. 30. — I retired to Kingswood, to write part of the volume of Sermons, which I had promised to publish this winter.

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I preached in Bath at noon, and at Seend in the evening. On Thursday evening, the 9th, at Reading; and on Friday in London.

Here I found an excellent letter from a friend abroad, part of which I add in his own words; being unable so to translate them, as not to lose great part of the spirit of the original: —

CHARISSIME FRATER,

GRATIA, pax, et multifariae Spiritus Sancti consolationes tibi tuaeque societati sint, et multiplicentur a Deo nostro per Servatorem nostrum. Amen.

Tuas gratissimas Ratcormucki datas accepi, et ew illis summo cum gaudio grandem in variis Angliae et Hiberniae partibus januam vobis apertam esse intellexi, dum multi adversarii evangelicae doctrinse sese opponerent. Literas tuas ad D. Perronet datas (A Plain Account, etc.) non quidem legi, sed devoravi. Omniaque adeo mihi arriserunt, ut vix me cohibere possim, quin Londinum devolem, veniam et videam societatis tuae ordinationes. Sed catenis variis quasi vinctus, nolens volens hic adstrictus sum. Quamprimum tamen literas illas vertam et typis mandabo, una cum tractatulo illo, The Character of a Methodist. — Forte, si non multos, aliquos excitabit Clericos aut Laicos, ad vestigia evangelica integrius premenda. — Admodum mihi placet, te nec sectae alicui, nec dogmatibus specificis sectarum adhaerere, nec patronum eorum agere, sed cuique libertatem relinquere de iis credendi quid velit, modo vere in Deum Filiumque ejus dilectum credat, Deum ex toto corde amet, a peccatis abstineat, et vitam vocatione evanyelica dignam ducat. Mi Jane, dilectissime frater, rogo, precor, et obtestor per viscera misericordiarum Dei et Filii sui, ut ipsissimam hanc vitam insistas, ac premere pergas, nec polemicis te immisceas. Certa solummodo bonum illud fidei purae, integrae, evangelicae certamen, nec ullos hostes praeter carnem corruptam, ejusque desideria mundana, debelles. Cane pejus et angui fugias dogmata multiplicare, et de non necessariis disputare, quae bina Satanae stratagemata fuere quibus ecclesiam ab integritate et simplicitate evangelica sensim aberrare fecit.

Doleo vehementer, te tot tamque gravibus et multifariis negotiis esse obrutum. Quam libenter pro tenuitate med te, tuosque levare, gravissimaque illa onera ferre vellem, novit Omniscius. Is, precor ardenter, fulciat, sustentet, et animum vobis addat, ut Satanae ejusque asseclarum regnum magis magisque indies destruatur, et Dei ejusque Filii regnum erigatur, dimanet et penetret omnes animos, illorum imprimis quorum mentem mundi dominus occaecavit.

Hisce votis te demando Deo, verboque ejus gratiae, qui te sociosque tuos aedificent et haereditatem possidendam dent in omnibus sanctis. Vale, mi Jane, frater amicissime, et me amare perge.

Tui ex animo amantissimus,

JOHANNES DE KOKER.

Dabam Rotterodami, 10 Oct. 1749.¹

I was fully determined to take another journey to Rotterdam, on purpose to see this worthy man.

But death had swifter wings than love:

Before I could get thither he was gathered to his fathers.

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Many complaints were made to me of a general deadness among the people of London, at the very time that those in most other parts of England were so remarkably alive to God. It was chiefly owing to a few persons who were continually laboring to spread offenses among them. But it was not long before the plague was stayed: Some of these incendiaries separating from us; others being convinced that they had been doing the work of the devil, in the name of the Lord.

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I buried the remains of Martha Somerset, late a mother in Israel: One who never left her first love, never abated in zeal, never was weary of well doing, from the hour she first found redemption in Christ, till her spirit returned to God.

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I rode to Mr. Perronet’s, at Shoreham, that I might be at leisure to write.

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After preaching in the morning, I rode to Bexley, and preached about eleven. At three in the afternoon I began at Deptford, and found a more than ordinary blessing: But a still greater at Snowsfields, where it seemed as if all would just then “know the Lord, from the least even to the greatest.”

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I preached, as usual, at five, at ten, and at five in the evening; besides meeting the Leaders, the Bands, the Preachers, and our own family. But I felt no faintness or weariness either of body or mind. Blessed be my strong Helper!

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I retired to Lewisham. On Saturday, 9, I read the surprising “Extract of Mr. Brainerd’s Journal.” Surely then God hath once more “given to the Gentiles repentance unto life!” Yet amidst so great matter of joy I could not but grieve at this: That even so good a man as Mr. Brainerd should be “wise above that is written;” in condemning what the Scripture nowhere condemns; in prescribing to God the way wherein He should work; and (in effect) applauding himself, and magnifying his own work, above that which God wrought in Scotland, or among the English in New England: Whereas, in truth, the work among the Indians, great as it was, was not to be compared to that at Cambuslang, Kilsyth, or Northampton.

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I retired to Newington once more, and on Saturday, 16, finished my Sermons. Monday, 18. I rode to Leigh, in Essex, and spoke in as awakening a manner as I could. Wednesday, 20. I left the little flock in peace and love, and cheerfully returned to London.

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I saw an uncommon instance both of the justice and mercy of God. — Abraham Jones, a serious, thinking man, about fifty years of age, was one of the first members of the society in London, and an early witness of the power of God to forgive sins. He then stood as a pillar for several years, and was a blessing to all that were round about him; till, growing wise in his own eyes, he saw this and the other person wrong, and was almost continually offended. He then grew colder and colder; till, at length, in order to renew his friendship with the world, he went (which he had refused to do for many years) to a parish feast, and stayed there till midnight. Returning home perfectly sober, just by his own door, he fell down and broke his leg. When the Surgeon came, he found the bone so shattered in pieces that it could not be set. Then it was, when he perceived he could not live, that the terrors of the Lord again came about him. I found him in great darkness of soul, owning the just hand of God. We prayed for him, in full confidence that God would return. And He did in part reveal himself again: He had many gleams of hope and love; till, in two or three days, his soul was required of him.

So awful a providence was immediately known to all the society, and contributed not a little to the awakening them that slept, and stirring up those that were faint in their mind.

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We had a solemn meeting at four. Indeed God was greatly with us during this whole season, in all our assemblies, to lift up them that had fallen, and to comfort the weak hearted.

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I saw the two Germans whom God has so eminently blessed in their labor of love to his ancient people. Great numbers of Jews, in Poland, Muscovy, Prussia, and various parts of Germany, have been brought, by their unwearied endeavors, to search the Scriptures, “whether these things were so.” And above six hundred of them have given proof that they have a saving knowledge of God, and of “Jesus Christ whom He hath sent.”

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I buried the remains of Abraham Jones, which gave me an opportunity of strongly exhorting all who had set their hands to the plough never to look back.

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