1757

I visited a poor dying backslider full of good resolutions. But who can tell when these imply a real change of heart? And when they do not, when they spring from fear only, what will they avail before God?

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I walked to Bishop Bonner’s with Mr. D——, lately entered at Cambridge, full of good resolutions. May God continue him humble and simple of heart! Then his sense and learning, will do him good: But how great are the odds against him!

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I called upon one who did run well for several years: But for a considerable time he had cast of the very form of religion. Yet his heart was not utterly hardened. He determined to set out once more; and since that time he has been more confirmed in walking suitably to the Gospel.

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Mr. Meier, Chaplain to one of the Hanoverian regiments, called and spent an hour with me. I am surprised at the seriousness of all the German Ministers with whom I have had occasion to converse: Entirely different from that pertness and affectation of wit which is too common in our own country.

The following letter (which I received two or three months after) was dated on this day: —

“THOUGH YOU and I may differ in some little things, I have long loved you and your brother, and wished and prayed for your success, as zealous revivers of experimental Christianity. If I differ from you in temper and design, or in the essentials of religion, I am sure the error must lie on my side. Blessed be God for hearts to love one another!

“As I knew your correspondence must be very extensive, and your labors various and incessant, I intended to have kept my peculiar love for you a secret, till we arrived where seas shall no more roll between us. But your late pious charity constrains me to give you the trouble of a letter. I am confident God will attend it with his blessing, and render you useful at the distance of near four thousand miles.

“How great is the honor God has conferred upon you, in making you a restorer of declining religion! And after struggling through so much opposition, and standing almost single, with what pleasure must you behold so many raised up, zealous in the same cause, though perhaps not ranked under the same name, nor openly connected with you! “I am endeavoring, in my poor manner, to promote the same cause in this part of our guilty globe. My success is not equal to my wishes; but it vastly surpasses both my deserts and my expectation. I have baptized near an hundred and fifty adult Negroes, of whom about sixty are communicants. Unpolished as they are, I find some of them have the art to dissemble. But, blessed be God, the generality of them, as far as I can learn, are real Christians. And I have no doubt, but sundry of them are genuine children of Abraham. Among them, in the first place, and then among the poor white people, I have distributed the books you sent me. “I desire you to communicate this to your brother, as equally intended for him. And let me and my congregation, particularly my poor Negro converts, be favored with your prayers. In return for which, I hope neither you nor your cause will be forgotten by,

“Reverend Sir,

“Your affectionate fellow laborer, and obliged servant, “Hanover, (in Viryinia,) “SAMUEL DAVIES.

“Jan. 28, 1757.”

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Knowing God was able to strengthen me for his own work, I officiated at Snowsfields as usual, before I went to West Street, where the Service took me up between four and five hours. I preached in the evening, and met the society; and my strength was as my day. I felt no more weariness at night, than at eight in the morning.

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The number of communicants at Spitalfields made this Lord’s Day a little more laborious than the former. But God added proportionally to my strength; so I felt no difference.

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At the request of the author, I took some pains in correcting an ingenious book, shortly to be published. But the more I consider them, the more I doubt of all systems of astronomy. I doubt whether we can certainly know either the distance or magnitude of any star in the firmament. Else why do astronomers so immensely differ, even with regard to the distance of the sun from the earth? Some affirming it to be only three, others ninety, millions of miles!

About this time the following note was given into my hand at Wapping: —

“JOHN WHITE, master at arms, aboard His Majesty’s ship Tartar, now at Plymouth, desires to return Almighty God thanks, for himself and all the ship’s company, for their preservation in four different engagements they have had with four privateers which they have taken; particularly the last, wherein the enemy first boarded them. They cleared the deck, boarded in their turn, and took the ship, thirty of the enemy being killed, and fifty more wounded. Only two of our crew were wounded, who, it is hoped, will recover.”

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Calling on a friend, I found him just seized with all the symptoms of a pleurisy. I advised him to apply a brimstone plaster, and in a few hours he was perfectly well. Now, to what end should this patient have taken a heap of drugs, and lost twenty ounces of blood? To what end? Why, to oblige the Doctor and Apothecary. Enough! Reason good!

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I preached at Deptford. Even this wilderness does at length “blossom and bud as the rose.” Never was there such life in this little flock before, nor such an increase in the number of hearers.

The following letter was wrote on Saturday, 28: —

“REVEREND AND DEAR SIR,

“WHEN I was at Freshford, on January 30, in the morning I scrupled singing those words, —

Ye now afflicted are,

And hated for his name,

And in your bodies bear

The tokens of the Lamb.

I thought I was not afflicted or hated for the name of Christ. But this scruple was soon removed. For at Bradford, in the evening, I was pressed for a soldier, and carried to an inn, where the gentlemen were. Mr. Pearse, hearing of it, came and offered bail for my appearance the next day. They said they would take his word for ten thousand pounds; but not for me; I must go to the Round house: (The little stone room on the side of the bridge:) So thither I was conveyed by five soldiers. There I found nothing to sit on but a stone, and nothing to lie on but a little straw. But soon after a friend sent me a chair, on which I sat all night. I had a double guard, twelve soldiers in all: two without one in the door and the rest within. I passed the night without sleep, but not without rest; for, blessed be God, my peace was not broken a moment. My body was in prison, but I was Christ’s freeman; my soul was at liberty. And even there I found some work to do for God: I had fair opportunity of speaking to them who durst not leave me. And I hope it was not in vain.

“In the morning I had leave to go to a private house with only one soldier to guard me. About three in the afternoon I was carried before the Commissioners, and part of the Act read, which empowered them to take such able bodied men as followed no business, and had no lawful or sufficient maintenance. Then I said, ‘If these are the men you are to take, I am not a proper person; for I do follow a lawful calling in partnership with my brother, and have also an estate.’ The Justice said, ‘If you will make oath of that, I think we must let you go.’ But the Commissioner said, no man could swear for himself. I said, ‘Gentlemen, give me time, and you shall have full proof.’ After a long debate, they took a fifty pound bond for my appearance on that day three weeks. All the time I could bless God, that he counted me worthy to suffer for his name’s sake. “The next day I set out for Cornwall. I tarried at home four days, and then setting out with my brother James, came to Bradford last Saturday. On Monday, in the afternoon, I appeared before the Commissioners, with the writings of my estate. When the Justice had perused them, and my brother had taken his oath, I was set at liberty. So the fierceness of man turns to God’s praise, and all this is for the furtherance of the Gospel. I hope you will return God thanks for my deliverance out of the hands of unreasonable and wicked men.

“WILLIAM HITCHENS”

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After the Service at Snowsfields, I found myself much weaker than usual, and feared I should not be able to through the work of the day, which is equal to preaching eight times. I therefore prayed that God would send me help; and as soon as I had done preaching at West-Street, a Clergyman, who was come to town for a few days, came and offered me his service. So when I asked for strength, God gave me strength; when for help, he gave this also.

I had been long desired to see the little flock at Norwich; but this I could not decently do, till I was able to rebuild part of the Foundery there, to which I was engaged by my lease. A sum sufficient for that end was now unexpectedly given me, by one of whom I had no personal knowledge. So I set out on Monday, 28, and preached in Norwich on Tuesday evening, MARCH 1. Mr. Walsh had been there twelve or fourteen days, and not without a blessing. After preaching I entered into contract with a builder, and gave him part of the money in hand. On Wednesday and Thursday I settled all our spiritual and temporal business, and on Friday and Saturday returned with Mr. Walsh to London.

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I had no help, and I wanted none; for God renewed my strength: But on Sunday, 13, finding myself weak at Snowsfields, I prayed (if he saw good) that God would send me help at the chapel; and I had it. A Clergyman, whom I never saw before, came and offered me his assistance; and as soon as I had done preaching, Mr. Fletcher came, who had just then been ordained Priest, and hastened to the chapel on purpose to assist, as he supposed me to be alone.

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I went with T. Walsh to Canterbury, where I preached in the evening with great enlargement of spirit; but with greater in the morning, being much refreshed at the sight of so large a number of soldiers. And is not God able to kindle the same fire in the fleet which he has already begun to kindle in the army?

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I had the satisfaction to find an old stout-hearted sinner, who had been defying God for near fourscore years, now become as a little child, and complaining of his own ignorance and ingratitude to God.

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I returned to London.

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Mr. Fletcher helped me again. How wonderful are the ways of God! When my bodily strength failed, and none in England were able and willing to assist me, he sent me help from the mountains of Switzerland; and an help meet for me in every respect: Where could I have found such another?

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After I had read to a serious Clergyman the conclusion of “The Doctrine of Original Sin,” he moved, that we might spend some time in prayer: And I found great liberty of spirit, in praying for Dr. Taylor; and a strong hope that God would show him “the truth as it is in Jesus.” About this time many of the children of God rested from their labors. On Sunday, 13, I buried Elizabeth Langdon, who, after severe inward trials, was for several days in great pain, but in great peace. On Sunday, 20, I buried Hannah Lee, a pattern of industry, meekness, and patience.

And on Sunday, 27, I buried Mary Naylor, who for several years was a most eminent pattern of truly Christian courage, plainness of speech, and plainness of apparel. A week before, I had an opportunity of telling her all that was in my heart concerning her change (not for the better) in all these particulars. In the beginning of her illness, she was in great darkness, and distress of soul; but while prayer was made for her, her bodily pain ceased, and her soul received comfort; and on Monday, 21, just at midnight, she quietly fell asleep.

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I rode to a gentleman’s near Beaconsfield, and preached at six in the evening, in a large convenient place filled with serious hearers, several of whom had come five or six miles.

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I was earnestly importuned to go over to High Wycombe. I went and preached there at noon, on the Parable of the sower. Perhaps some of the seed which has been sown here for many years will at length bring forth fruit.

At six it seemed as if the whole town of Beaconsfield was assembled together. And I bear them witness, they gave earnest heed, high and low, to the things which were spoken. A large number of them were present in the morning, on Friday, April 1. Fair beginnings these! But “he that endureth to the end, the same shall be saved.”

In returning to London, I read a tract on “The Law of Nature,” wrote by a Counselor of Geneva. I am sorry to find Dr. Taylor’s poison spread to the Alps also! And even printed and published at Geneva, without any hindrance or animadversion!

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I paid one more visit to Thomas Singleton, an amiable young man, called away at five and twenty, in the dawn of a flourishing business. The next day his spirit returned to God.

On Good Friday, in the evening, at the meeting of the society, God was eminently present with us. I read over and enlarged upon Joseph Alleine’s “Directions for a Thorough Conversion to God;” and desired all who were able would meet me on Monday, that we might “perform our vows unto the Lord.”

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At five in the evening about twelve hundred of the society met me at Spitalfields. I expected two to help me, but none came. I holden out till between seven and eight. I was then scarce able to walk or speak; but I looked up, and received strength. At half hour after nine, God broke in mightily upon the congregation. “Great” indeed “was our glorying” in him; we were “filled with consolation.” And when I returned home between ten and eleven, I was no more tired than at ten in the morning.

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I set out at five for Bedford. About seven the rain began. It did not intermit till noon, and was driven upon us by a most furious wind. In the afternoon we had some intervals of fair weather, and before five we reached Bedford.

Mr. Parker, now Mayor, received us gladly. He hath not born the sword in vain. There is no cursing or swearing heard in these streets; no work done on the Lord’s Day. Indeed, there is no open wickedness of any kind now to be seen in Bedford. O what may not one Magistrate do who has a single eye, and a confidence in God!

Both in the evening and the following morning I preached the Law as well as the Gospel. The next evening I preached on, “All things are ready: Come ye to the marriage.” And God eminently confirmed his word. It seemed as if not one would be left behind.

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We rode to Leicester, where John Brandon has gathered a small society. I preached at seven: The House (supposed to contain a thousand people) was thoroughly filled. I believe there were forty or fifty soldiers; and all heard as for life.

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Being informed the straight road to Birmingham was scarce passable, we went round by Coventry: Before six we reached Birmingham.

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I spoke to each member of the society. What havoc have the two opposite extremes, Mysticism and Antinomianism, made among this once earnest and simple people! Had it not been good for those men not to have been born, by whom these little ones have been offended? In the afternoon I rode to Dudley, where the work of God increases greatly, notwithstanding the immense scandal which has been given by those who once rejoiced in the love of God. One of these has lately killed his own child, by a blow upon the head. After preaching I talked with M. B., who has been long “a mother in Israel.” “I was under strong convictions,” said she, “when twelve or thirteen years old, and soon after found peace with God. But I lost it by degrees, and then contented myself with living a quiet, harmless life, till Mr. Charles Wesley came to Wednesbury, in the year 1742. Soon after this my convictions returned, though not with terror, as before, but with strong hope; and, in a little time, I recovered peace and joy in believing. This I never lost since, but for forty eight hours (by speaking angrily to my child). Not long after, Mr. Jones talked particularly with me, about the wickedness of my heart. I went home in great trouble, which did not cease, till one day, sitting in my house, I heard a voice say, in my inmost soul, ‘Be ye holy; for I am holy.’ From that hour, for a year and a quarter, (thought I never lost my peace,) I did nothing, but long, and weep, and pray, for inward holiness. I was then sitting one day, August 23, 1744, about eight in the morning, musing and praying as usual, when I seemed to hear a loud voice, saying at once to my heart and to my outward ears, ‘This day shall salvation come to this house.’ I ran up stairs, and presently the power of God came upon me, so that I shook all over like a leaf. Then a voice said, ‘This day is salvation come to this house.’ At the instant I felt an entire change. I was full of love, and full of God. I had the witness in myself, that he had made an end of sin, and taken my whole heart for ever. And from that moment I have never lost the witness, nor felt anything in my heart but pure love.”

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The rain constrained me to preach within at eight, though the house would ill contain the congregation; but we prayed that God, if he saw good, would “stay the bottles of heaven,” for the sake of those at Wednesbury. And before we came thither, the rain stayed, so that I proclaimed Christ crucified, in the open air, to such a congregation as no house could have contained. At five I preached to a still larger congregation, on, “He that believeth shall be saved.” As soon as I had done, the rain returned, and continued great part of the night.

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In the evening I preached at Bilbrook, to an earnest congregation, and joined twenty of them in a society; one of whom had Christ clearly revealed in him thirty years ago: But he could find none who understood what he said, till the Methodists (so called) came. He clave to them immediately; rejoicing with them, and over them, who were partakers of like precious faith.

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Between Nantwich and Poole, a thick, black cloud came across us; out of which issued such a violent wind, as was ready to bear us off our horses. But in five minutes’ time the wind fell, and the cloud bore clear away.

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The congregation at Chester in the evening was as quiet and serious as that at the Foundery: And the society was near a third part larger than when I was here in autumn.

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I rode to Liverpool, where I found about half of those I left in the society. James S——ld had swept away the rest, in order to which he had told lies innumerable. But none who make lies their refuge will prosper. A little while and his building will molder away.

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We had two very useful sermons at St. Thomas’s church; the one, on counting the cost, before we begin to build; the other, on, “Be ye angry, and sin not.” And both of them were exactly suitable to the present case of many in the congregation.

The upper part of the high spire of the church was blown down in the late storm. The stones, being bound together by strong iron cramps, hung waving in the air for some time. Then they broke through roof, gallery, pews, and pavement, and made a deep dint in the ground.

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I walked to the Infirmary, standing on an hill, at the north end of the town. The Seamen’s Hospital is joined to it, on each side, by semi-circular piazzas. All is extremely clean and neat, at least equal to any thing in London. The old seamen have smaller or larger allowance, according to their families; so that nothing is wanting to make their lives easy and comfortable — but the love of God.

I afterwards spent an hour with Mr. Peter Whitefield, a man of strong understanding and various learning. His “Dissertation in Defense of the Hebrew Points” (which he sent me the next morning) is far more satisfactory than any thing which I ever heard or read upon the subject.

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I talked with one who, by the advice of his Pastor, had, very calmly and deliberately, beat his wife with a large stick, till she was black and blue, almost from head to foot. And he insisted, it was his duty so to do, because she was surly and ill-natured; and that he was full of faith all the time he was doing it, and had been so ever since.

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I took a view of the Free School, a truly noble benefaction. Here seventy boys and thirty girls are entirely provided for. The building forms three sides of a Square, and is rather elegant than magnificent. The children are taught to work, in their several ways, as well as to read and write. The school, the dining-rooms, and the lodgings, are all plain and clean. The whole was the gift of one man, Mr. Blundell, a merchant of Liverpool.

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I preached at Warrington about noon, to a wild, staring people, (very few excepted,) who seemed just ripe for mischief. But the bridle was in their jaws. In the evening I preached at Manchester.

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I rode over to Hayfield, and preached at one in the church, to a congregation gathered from all parts.

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I inquired of John Johnson, concerning Miss Berresford. The sum of his account was this: —

“She was always an innocent, sober young woman, having the form of godliness, till she was convinced of sin, and soon after justified. She was a pattern both of piety and industry. Notwithstanding her fortune and her sickliness, she was never unemployed; when she had no other work, working for the poor. And the whole tenor of her conversation was such, that it is still a common saying, ‘If Miss Berresford is not gone to heaven, nobody ever will.’

“She had a vehement love to the word of God, and spared no pains in order to hear it. Frequently she would not go to bed all night, lest she should miss the morning preaching. She lost no opportunity of meeting with her brethren, to whom her heart was closely united: Nor was she afraid or ashamed to own the poorest of them, wherever she met them, and whatever company she was in. The very sight of them occasioned a joy in her soul, which she neither could nor desired to hide.

“When her weakness confined her to her room, she rejoiced with joy unspeakable: More especially when she was delivered from all her doubts concerning Christian perfection. Never was any one more athirst for this, for the whole mind that was in Christ. And she earnestly exhorted all her brethren, vehemently to press after it.

“The more her bodily strength decayed, the more she was strengthened in spirit. She called upon all that were with her, ‘Help me to rejoice; help me to praise God.’ Having no fear, but a jealousy over herself, lest she should exceed in her desire to be with Christ.

“As soon as I came to Ashbourn, she sent for me, and broke out, ‘I am just at my journey’s end. What a mercy, that I who have done so little for God, should be so soon taken up to him! O, I am full of the love of God! I dare not exercise my faith fully upon God: The glory of the Lord is so great, that I cannot bear it: I am overwhelmed: My natural life is almost gone, with the brightness of his presence. Sometimes I am even forced to cry out, ‘Lord, stay thy hand till I come into glory.’ I asked, ‘Have you lately felt any remains of sin in you?’ She said, ‘I felt pride some weeks ago.’ And it seems this was the last time. She added, ‘I have now no will; the will of God is mine. I can bring my dearest friends before the Lord; and while I am praying for them, the glory of the Lord so overpowers me that I am lost, and adore in silence the God of heaven.’ She cried out, ‘Tell all from me, that perfection is attainable; and exhort all to press after it. What a blessing is it, that I have no weary hours; though I am confined to my bed night and day, and can take scarce any thing but water to refresh me, yet I am like a giant refreshed with wine.’

“Afterward she broke out, ‘If I had lived in what the world calls pleasure, what a miserable creature should I have been now! What should I be if I had no God on my side? When the fire has made me bright, then I shall go to my God.’ She prayed largely for all states of mankind: But particularly for the prosperity of the church; and for the society at Ashbourn, that God would continue and increase his work among them.

“When she altered for death, she called for her mother and brothers, to each of whom she gave an earnest exhortation. Then she said, ‘Now I have no more to do here; I am ready to die. Send to Mr. W., and tell him I am sorry I did not sooner believe the doctrine of perfect holiness. Blessed be God I now know it to be the truth!’ After greatly rejoicing in God, for two days more, she said one morning, ‘I dreamed last night I heard a voice, Christ will come today for his bride. It is for me. He will come for me today.’ And a few hours after, without one struggle, or sigh, or groan, she sweetly fell asleep.”

One who was intimately acquainted with her writes thus: — “GLORY be to God for the blessed privilege I enjoyed, of being with her, night and day, for a month before she died! When I went to her first, she had kept her bed some days, and was extremely weak. And yet she spoke considerably plainer, than ever I heard her in my life. She called as soon as I entered the room, ‘My dear friend, give me your hand. Let us rejoice that my time is so near approaching. Do not mourn; you know it is what we expected.’ I was soon brought to wish her safe on the happy shore. She said, ‘This is true friendship. But how is it that I do not feel greater transports of love, now I am so near the time of seeing my Lord face to face? Indeed I am ashamed to approach Him, before whom the angels veil their faces!’ She often said, ‘I take it as a fresh token of his love, that he sent you to me at this time.’ Her pains were great; but she bore all with invincible patience and resignation, and often said, ‘I find it good for me to be afflicted; in his time I shall come out thoroughly purified.’ Afterward she said, ‘I experience more upon this bed of my own nothingness, and the free grace of God in Christ, than ever I did in all my life. The best of my performances would be damnable without Christ.’

“Several days before her death, her love was so great, that she cried, ‘I am overcome, I am overcome, I am overcome!’ And when she had scarce strength to speak, she praised God in a wonderful manner. Even when she was light headed, her talk was wholly concerning the things of God. She called to Mr. Wesley, as if he had been by her, and said, ‘O Sir, how hard it is for the rich to enter into the kingdom of heaven! I am saved; but I am but just saved.’ When her fever abated, she told me she had dreamed that she was with him. And sometimes I could scarce persuade her but he had been there.

“She after asked if I saw no more appearance of death in her face yet. When I told her there was, she begged I would indulge her with a looking glass; and looking earnestly into it, she said with transport, ‘I never saw myself with so much pleasure in my life.’

“On Saturday morning at six she said, ‘My Savior will come today and fetch his bride.’ Yet about eight she said, ‘If you had felt what I have done this morning, it would have killed you. I had lost sight of God.’ (Perhaps in the last conflict ‘with principalities and powers.’) From this time she was filled with joy, but spoke little. Her eyes were still lifted up to heaven, till her soul was released, with so much ease, that I did not know when she drew her last breath.”

So died Judith Berresford, as it were an hundred years old, at the age of four and twenty. A little more of her life and of her Spirit, may be learned from one or two of her letters: —

“How can you love me, since there is still such a mixture of evil in all I say and do? But why should I ask this question? The Lord himself loves me: And in the late dispensation of his providence, he has mercifully discovered to me some sins of a refined nature, which before I was almost ignorant of, and now wait and pray to be delivered from. And I can joyfully add, the Lord is night to all that call upon him. He will fulfill my desire, though not as I desired: His way and his will are best. But how long shall I acknowledge this, without implicitly submitting to it? My own will I am apt to think good in such cases, and to grieve when it is crossed. So that I easily discern, how needful it is for me to be tried, and made to sacrifice to the Lord of that which costs me something. I need not say, for the above, alas! will tell you, that I cannot answer all your questions in the affirmative; for did I continually find God present with me, and always walk in the light of his countenance, most surely there could be no part dark in me. Yet this I can say, that I see his hand stretched out to save and to deliver; and my trust is, that before I go hence, I shall behold all his salvation; and if it can serve any good purpose, he will open my lips to declare his praise, and let a poor creature glorify him in her death. For this I pray, and rejoice in hope, knowing the God whom I serve is able to fulfill in me all the good pleasure of his will, and the works of faith with power. “As to the shadows of this world, I think I may truly say, they are as nothing to me. The evil (for certainly it must be some) that at times interposes between God and my soul, is, I believe, of a more spiritual nature. The stirrings of pride I sometimes feel, and, I trust, shall bewail as long as one spark remains.

“My clear friend, adieu! I trust we shall have an happy meeting at last. In the mean time, I am persuaded, a few lines from you would add greatly to my peace and comfort. I am

“Your very loving, and (I hope) obedient child,

“September 7, 1756. J. B.”

In answer to a letter wherein I desired some account of her experience she wrote as follows: —

“How does it add to the glory of the Almighty Savior, that from my very infancy, this rebel heart has felt the drawings of his love! Therefore since you desire to know how I was first convinced that I was a poor guilty sinner, I must begin with saying, that goodness and mercy have followed me all my days. But I know not how to proceed; the workings of sin and grace that I have felt are beyond description. Yet out of the mouth of babes and sucklings the Lord can perfect praise.

“My childhood was spent in much simplicity and peace. The Lord drew me to himself with the cords of love, and I found great joy, in pouring out my soul before him. Original sin I was quite ignorant of; but actual sins I felt and bewailed; and after some time spent in weeping for them, I felt peace, and renewed my resolutions: But they could not last long; for pride, envy, and all manner of evil, now sprung up in my heart. Yet at times I had strong convictions, and often resolved to be very serious when I was older.

“So I went on from eight or ten years old till seventeen; then I was indeed as bad as bad could be; desired nothing but to be admired, and was filled with all that foolish vanity, which poor young women are most prone to. Christmas, 1750, I was advised to partake of the Lord’s Supper. I knew it was right, but was conscious of my ignorance and unfitness for it. However, I endeavored to prepare myself, and was pretty well satisfied, after I had made a formal confession of my sins, and shed some tears for them.

“About this time there was a great talk of Methodism, and a cousin of mine was brought to seek the Lord. I went to visit her in January, 1751, and told her, before I came away, I knew I was not what I ought to be, and should be glad to be instructed. From this time we carried on a correspondence, and by degrees light broke in upon my heart. But alas! though I well knew that in me was no good thing, and seemed to disclaim my own righteousness, yet the idol lurked within, and I really trusted in my own prayers and other duties. In this manner I went on that whole year; toward the end of which my corruptions were more violent. Sin took occasion by the commandment, and I was often ready to be carried away by the torrent.

“February, 1752, it pleased God to take my dear friend. This appeared to me a heavy judgment; yet I afterwards saw how it was tempered with mercy, as it taught me to trust in none but the everlasting arm. Her death happily proved the occasion of her elder sister’s conversion. The blessing of a Christian friend was restored to me, and we received each other as from the Lord.

“In 1753 and 1754, I had great outward afflictions, and at times strong inward conflicts; though, blessed be God, I generally found comfort in pouring out my complaints before him. But towards the end of 1754 I began to feel my hope decline; and for several nights in secret prayer I was in strong agony of spirit. The Lord then, while I was upon my knees, stripped off all my fig leaves. At the same time he showed me the all sufficiency of Jesus Christ to save sinners, to save me the chief; and I was enabled to cry out, ‘My Lord, and my God! I have redemption in thy blood.’ From this happy time I went on my way rejoicing, though I was, at times, grievously assaulted, both by the stirrings of my old corruptions, and temptations from the devil, blasphemous thoughts in particular. I always experienced something of this before the sacrament; but the Lord made a way for me to escape.

“In the beginning of the year 1755, we had preaching near Ashbourn. This I had wished for long; and now I was honored with suffering a little for the name of Christ. At first I was rather ashamed, but the Lord strengthened me; and so great a blessing did I find by conversing with these dear people, that I feared none of those things which I did or might suffer. My acquaintance were now less fond of my company, and they that looked upon me shaked their heads. This proved an unspeakable blessing: For often had I cause to fear the love of men.

“From the time of my becoming serious, or rather beginning to aim at it, my health visibly declined. This at first occasioned me some trouble, because all cried out, it was being too religious; but afterwards I saw great mercy in this chastisement, and the consequences of it; one of which was, that I had a just excuse, even in the judgment of others, for refraining from many things which in my circumstances could not otherwise have been avoided, without great opposition from those who were near and dear unto me. Not that I ever fasted: God knows I have been deficient in this as well as every other duty: But I had an happy liberty of Using some little self denial; for which the Lord be praised!

“O how has he led me and carried me in his bosom! Is it not wonderful? And yet I have not told you a tenth part; but the time fails, and my strength fails. Praise God with me, and let us magnify his name together. “October 1, 1756.”

I believe this was one of the last letters she wrote: Shortly after she was called hence.

So unaffected, so composed a mind,

So firm yet so it, so strong yet so refin’d,

Heaven, as its purest gold, with torture tried.

The saint sustain’d it, — but the woman died.

An account of a widely different nature I received about this time from Ireland: —

“Thomas B., about three miles from Tyrrel’s Pass, was at the point of death by a violent rupture: While they were praying for him in the society, he was at once restored to perfect health. He continued in health for several years, and in the knowledge and love of God: But no sooner did he return to folly, than his disorder returned; and in some months it put an end to his life. He died as stupid as an ox.”

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I rode over the mountains to Huddersfield. A wilder people I never saw in England. The men, women, and children filled the street as we rode along, and appeared just ready to devour us. They were, however, tolerably quiet while I preached; only a few pieces of dirt were thrown, and the bellman came in the middle of the sermon, but was stopped by a gentleman of the town. I had almost done, when they began to ring the bells; so that it did us small disservice. How intolerable a thing is the Gospel of Christ to them who are resolved to serve the devil!

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I preached, about one, at Wakefield, in a small meadow near the town. When I began the sun shone exceeding hot; but in a few minutes it was covered with clouds. The congregation was more quiet and serious than ever I saw there before. Almost as soon as I had done speaking, the sun broke out again.

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I finished Dr. Roger’s “Essay on the Learning of the Ancients.” I think he has clearly proved that they had microscopes and telescopes, and knew all that is valuable in the modern astronomy; but, indeed, he has fully shown the whole frame of this to be quite uncertain, if not self-contradictory.

The latter end of the week I spent at Bradford.

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At five the House contained the congregation, but at eight they covered the plain adjoining to it. The sun was hot, till the clouds interposed; it was a solemn and comfortable season. As soon as the service of the church was ended, I began at the end of the House again, and exhorted a willing multitude to “follow after charity.” A shower of rain and hail fell as I drew to a conclusion, but it did not disturb the congregation.

Soon after I took horse for Birstal. The congregation here was treble to that at Bradford; but as they stood one above another on the circular slope of the hill, my voice commanded them all. Though I spoke longer than I usually do, I found no weariness or weakness. Shall not “they that trust in the Lord renew their strength?” Yea, as long as the sun and moon endureth. On Monday and Tuesday, I preached in the neighboring towns.

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I rode in the afternoon, from Halifax, over the huge, but extremely pleasant and fruitful, mountains to Heptonstall. A large congregation was waiting for us, not only on the ground, but on the side and tops of the neighboring houses. But no scoffer or trifler was seen among them. It rained in the adjoining valley, all or most of the time that I was preaching; but it was fair with us, on the top of the mountain. What an emblem of God’s taking up his people into a place of safety, while the storm falls on all below!

Here I was informed of the earthquake the day before. — On Tuesday, May 17, many persons in several parts, within five or six miles, heard a strange noise under the ground, which some compared to thunder, others to the rumbling of carts. Quickly after they felt the earth rock under them, and wave to and fro. Many who were within doors heard their pewter and glass clatter; many in the fields felt the ground shake under their feet; and all agreed as to the time, though they knew nothing of each other’s account.

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I preached at Ewood about seven, not intending to preach again till the evening; but Mr. Grimshaw begged I would give them one sermon at Gawksham; after which we climbed up the enormous mountain, I think equal to any I saw in Germany, on the brow of which we were saluted by a severe shower, which a high wind drove full in our faces, almost till we came to Haslingden. Here I learned that the earthquake observed near Heptonstall had been sensibly felt by very many persons from Bingley, three miles eastward of Keighley, to the neighborhood of Preston. It was every where preceded by a hoarse rumbling, about three o’clock; so that in a few minutes it had run from east to west, between fifty and sixty miles.

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I preached near Paddiham at eight, to a large, wild congregation: About noon, at Roughlee; where those who stood firm in the storm had melted away in the calm. At Keighley I had neither voice nor strength left; but while I was preaching my strength returned.

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I had a little Conference with our Preachers. In the afternoon I preached at Bingley. I have not lately seen so genteel a congregation; yet the word of God fell heavy upon them.

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After preaching at five, I took horse for Haworth. A December storm met us upon the mountain; but this did not hinder such a congregation as the church could not contain. I suppose we had near a thousand communicants, and scarce a trifler among them. In the afternoon, the church not containing more than a third of the people, I was constrained to be in the churchyard. The rain began as soon as I began to speak; but they regarded it not; for God sent into their hearts The former and the latter rain;

The love of God, and love of man.

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I took horse at four. It rained till noon without any intermission; and we had heavy showers in the afternoon: However, we reached Ambleside in the evening.

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We rode by Keswick to Whitehaven. Within a few miles of the town I was so tired that I could scarce either ride or walk; but all weariness was gone before I had preached a quarter of an hour.

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I was surprised to see, not only hedges and shrubs without a green leaf upon them, but abundance of trees likewise naked as in the depth of winter. Upon inquiring, I found that some time before, a violent wind had gone through all these parts, which not only threw down chimneys, walls, and barns, and tore up trees by the roots, but scorched every green thing it touched as with fire, so that all the leaves immediately fell off, and not only bushes and fruit-trees, but elms, oaks, and firs, withered away to the very roots.

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I preached at Branthwait about noon. Many of the congregation came from far. The rain was suspended from ten till evening, so that they had opportunity both of coming and returning. This also was an answer to prayer: And is any such too little to be remembered? MAY 29. — (Being Whit-Sunday.) After preaching at eight and at two, I hastened to Cockermouth. I began without delay, and cried to a listening multitude, “If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.” The word had free course. Even the Gentry seemed desirous to drink of the “living water.”

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I rode to Wigton, a neat, well built town, on the edge of Cumberland. I preached in the market-place at twelve. The congregation was large and heavily attentive. Between four and five we crossed Solway-Frith; and before seven reached an ill looking house, called, the Brow, which we came to by mistake, having passed the house we were directed to. I believe God directed us better than man. Two young women, we found, kept the house, who had lost both their parents; their mother very lately. I had great liberty in praying with them and for them. Who knows but God will fasten something upon them, which they will not easily shake off?

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I breakfasted at Dumfries, and spent an hour with a poor backslider of London, who had been for some years settled there. We then rode through an uncommonly pleasant country (so widely distant is common report from truth) to Thorny-Hill, two or three miles from the Duke of Queensborough’s seat; an ancient and noble pile of building, delightfully situated on the side of a pleasant and fruitful hill. But it gives no pleasure to its owner; for he does not even behold it with his eyes. Surely this is a sore evil under the sun; a man has all things, and enjoys nothing.

We rode afterward partly over and partly between some of the finest mountains, I believe, in Europe; higher than most, if not than any, in England, and clothed with grass to the very top. Soon after four we came to Lead-Hill, a little town at the foot of the mountains, wholly inhabited by miners.

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We rode on to Glasgow; a mile short of which we met Mr. Gillies, riding out to meet us.

In the evening the tent (so they called a covered pulpit) was placed in the yard of the Poor-House, a very large and commodious place. Fronting the pulpit was the Infirmary, with most of the patients at or near the windows. Adjoining to this was the Hospital for lunatics: Several of them gave deep attention. And cannot God give them also the spirit of a sound mind? After sermon, they brought four children to baptize. I was at the kirk in the morning while the Minister baptized several immediately after sermon. So I was not at a loss as to their manner of baptizing. I believe this removed much prejudice.

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At seven the congregation was increased, and earnest attention sat on every face. In the afternoon we walked to the College, and saw the new library, with the collection of pictures. Many of them are by Raphael, Rubens, Vandyke, and other eminent hands; but they have not room to place them to advantage, their whole building being very small.

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I walked through all parts of the old cathedral, a very large and once beautiful structure; I think, more lofty than that at Canterbury, and nearly the same length and breadth. We then went up the main steeple, which gave us a fine prospect, both of the city and the adjacent country. A more fruitful and better cultivated plain is scarce to be seen in England. Indeed nothing is wanting but more trade, (which would naturally bring more people,) to make a great part of Scotland no way inferior to the best counties in England.

I was much pleased with the seriousness of the people in the evening; but still I prefer the English congregation. I cannot be reconciled to men sitting at prayer, or covering their heads while they are singing praise to God.

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At seven the congregation was just as large as my voice could reach; and I did not spare them at all: So if any will deceive himself, I am clear of his blood. In the afternoon it was judged two thousand, at least, went away, not being able to hear; but several thousands heard very distinctly, the evening being calm and still. After preaching I met as many as desired it, of the members of the praying societies. I earnestly advised them to meet Mr. Gillies every week; and at their other meetings, not to talk loosely, and in general (as their manner had been) on some head of religion, but to examine each other’s hearts and lives.

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We took horse early; and in three hours reached the Kirk of Shots, where the landlord seemed to be unusually affected by a few minutes’ conversation; as did also the woman of the house where we dined. We came to Musselburgh at five. I went to an inn, and sent for Mr. Bailiff Lindsey, whom I had seen several years ago. He came immediately, and desired me to make his house my home. At seven I preached in the Poor-House, to a large and deeply attentive congregation; but the number of people making the room extremely hot, I preached in the morning before the door. Speaking afterwards to the members of the society, I was agreeably surprised to find more than two thirds knew in whom they had believed. And the tree was known by its fruits. The national shyness and stubbornness were gone, and they were as open and teachable as little children. At seven five or six and forty of the fifty dragoons, and multitudes of the town’s people, attended. Is the time come that even these wise Scots shall become fools for Christ’s sake?

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I rode to Dunbar. Here also I found a little society; most of them rejoicing in God their Savior. At eleven I went out into the main street, and began speaking to a congregation of two men and two women. These were soon joined by above twenty little children, and not long, after by a large number of young and old. On a sudden the sun broke out and shone full in my face; but in a few moments I felt it not. In the afternoon I rode to Berwick upon Tweed. They did not expect me till the next day: However, a congregation quickly assembled; and one as large, if not larger, at five in the morning.

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Today “Douglas,” the play which has made so much noise, was put into my hands. I was astonished to find it is one of the finest tragedies I ever read. What pity, that a few lines were not left out; and that it was ever acted at Edinburgh!

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I found myself much out of order, till the flux stopped at once without any medicine. But being still weak, and the sun shining extremely hot, I was afraid I should not be able to go round by Kelso. Vain fear! God took care for this also. The wind, which had been full east for several days, turned this morning full west; and blew just in our face: And about ten the clouds rose, and kept us cool till we came to Kelso.

At six William Coward and I went to the Market-house. We stayed some time, and neither man, woman, nor child came near us. At length I began singing a Scotch psalm, and fifteen or twenty people came within hearing; but with great circumspection, keeping their distance, as though they knew not what might follow. But while I prayed, their number increased; so that in a few minutes there was a pretty large congregation. I suppose the chief men of the town were there; and I spared neither rich nor poor. I almost wondered at myself, it not being usual with me to use so keen and cutting expressions: And I believe many felt that, for all their form, they were but Heathens still.

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Near as many were present at five, to whom I spoke full as plain as before. Many looked as if they would look us through; but the shyness peculiar to this nation prevented their saying any thing to me, good or bad, while I walked through them, to our inn.

About noon I preached at Wooler, a pretty large town eighteen miles from Kelso. I stood on one side of the main street, near the middle of the town: And I might stand; for no creature came near me till I had sung part of a psalm. Then a row of children stood before me; and in some time, about an hundred men and women. I spoke full as plain as I did at Kelso: And Pharisees themselves are not out of God’s reach.

In the afternoon we came to Alnwick; and at six I preached in the Court House, to a congregation of another spirit.

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At seven they were gathered from all parts, and I was greatly refreshed among them. At five, the Court House being too small, I was obliged to go out into the market-place. O what a difference is there between these living stones, and the dead, unfeeling multitudes in Scotland!

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I proclaimed the love of Christ to sinners in the market-place at Morpeth. Thence we rode to Placey. The society of colliers here may be a pattern to all the societies in England. No person ever misses his band or class: They have no jar of any kind among them; but with one heart and one mind “provoke one another to love and to good works.” After preaching I met the society in a room as warm as any in Georgia: This, with the scorching heat of the sun, when we rode on, quite exhausted my strength. But after we came to Newcastle I soon recovered, and preached with as much ease as in the morning.

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In the evening I preached at Sunderland. I then met the society, and told them plain, none could stay with us, unless he would part with all sin; particularly, robbing the King, selling or buying run goods; which I could no more suffer, than robbing on the highway. This I enforced on every member the next day. A few would not promise to refrain: So these I was forced to cut off. About two hundred and fifty were of a better mind.

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The desk was placed in the evening just opposite the sun, which, when I begun, was covered with a cloud: But it broke out in a few minutes, and shone full in my face, for three quarters of an hour. But it was no inconvenience at all; nor were my eyes any more dazzled, than if it had been under the earth.

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I preached at eight to the usual congregation; and hastened to Shields, lest I should be too late for the church. Between twelve and one I preached in a kind of Square. But here we had a new kind of inconvenience: Every four or five minutes a strong wind covered us over with a shower of dust; so that it was not easy to look up, or to keep one’s eyes open. But not long after the rain began, which constrained me to preach within, at Newcastle. I took the opportunity of making a collection for the poor; many of whom can very hardly support life in the present scarcity.

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In the evening and the following morning I preached at Chester-on-the-Strate. Observing some very fine but not very modest pictures, in the parlor where we supped, I desired my companion, when the company was gone, to put them where they could do no hurt. He piled them on an heap in a corner of the room, and they have not appeared since.

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I preached at South Biddick about noon, on, “I will heal thy backsliding.” God was with us at Sunderland in the evening, in an uncommon manner: And the next day I left the people there more in earnest than they have been for some years.

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We walked to Swalwell about noon. The sun was scorching hot, and there was no wind or cloud: But it did us no hurt. The congregation was such as I never saw there before: And I believe God blessed his word to them that were nigh, and them that had been far from him.

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I preached at Gateshead at eight; at Sheephill about noon; and at five in the evening at Newcastle, near Pandon Gate. The rain only threatened till I had done, but soon after poured down. How well does God time great and small events for the furtherance of his kingdom!

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I preached at Horsley, and found some life even there. Thence we rode across the Tyne to Prudhoe, a little town on the top of an high hill. I preached at the side of Mr. H.’s house; and I suppose all the town, who could get out, were present, and most of them at five in the morning. At both times it pleased God to make bare his arm, not only to wound, but to heal.

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I returned to Newcastle, hoarse and weak. But who can be spent in a better cause?

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I read Mr. Baxter’s account of his own “Life and Times.” It seems to be the most impartial account of those times which has yet ever appeared. And none that I have seen so accurately points out the real springs of those public calamities.

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The high wind obliged me to stand on the western side of Gateshead. By this means the sun was just in my face. But it was not long before the clouds covered it. As I began speaking in the afternoon, near Pandon Gate, the rain began, scattered the careless hearers, and ceased. An earnest, attentive multitude remained, to whom I explained part of the Second Lesson for the day, concerning the “joy” which is “in heaven, over one sinner that repenteth.”

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I took my leave of Newcastle, and about noon preached at Durham in a pleasant meadow, near the river’s side. The congregation was large, and wild enough; yet, in a short time, they were deeply attentive. Only three or four gentlemen put me in mind of the honest man at London, who was so gay and unconcerned while Dr. Sherlock was preaching concerning the day of judgment: One asked, “Do you not hear what the Doctor says?” He answered, “Yes; but I am not of this parish!” Toward the close I was constrained to mention the gross ignorance I had observed in the rich and genteel people throughout the nation. On this they drew near, and showed as serious an attention as if they had been poor colliers. We took horse at two. The clouds and wind in our face kept us cool till we came to Hartlepool. Mr. Romaine has been an instrument of awakening several here; but for want of help they soon slept again. I preached in the main street to near all the town; and they behaved with seriousness.

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At seven in the evening I preached in the main street at Stockton. None but two or three gentlemen seemed unconcerned. I went thence to meet the society; but many others begged to stay with them, and so earnestly that I could not refuse. And indeed it w as a day of God’s power; I scarce know when we have found the like.

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At eleven I preached near the market-place in Yarm. Many Gentry were there, and all serious. I find in all these parts a solid, serious people, quite simple of heart, strangers to various opinions, and seeking only the faith that worketh by love. And most of the believers are waiting and longing for the fullness of the promises.

One young woman, late a Papist, I talked with at large, who last night took leave of her Priest. Instead of staying to be sent for, she sent for him; and, after asking him several questions, frankly to]d him, she had now found the true religion; and, by the grace of God, would continue therein. She has been concerned for her soul from thirteen years of age. About two years ago she began to hear our Preachers: Soon after she found the peace of God, and has never lost it since.

About seven I preached at Osmotherley.

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I rode through one of the pleasantest parts of England to Hornby. Here the zealous landlord turned all the Methodists out of their houses. This proved a singular kindness: For they built some little houses at the end of the town, in which forty or fifty of them live together. Hence with much ado I found my way to Robinhood’s Bay, and preached on the quay, to the greatest part of the town: All (except one or two, who were very wise in their own eyes) seemed to receive the truth in love. This day, between Helmsley and Kirkby Moorside, we rode over a little river, which suddenly disappears; and, after running a mile under ground, rises again and pursues its course.

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I preached at seven, on, “Repent and believe the Gospel.” At the church, which stands on the hill, a mile from the town, we had a sound, useful sermon. Afterwards I preached at a little village called Normanby; and about five on the quay. In the evening, talking with the society, I saw more than ever the care of God over them that fear him. What was it which stopped their growing in grace? Why, they had a well meaning Preacher among them, who was inflaming them more and more against the Clergy. Nor could he advise them to attend the public ordinances; for he never went either to church or sacrament himself. This I knew not; but God did; and by his wise providence prevented the consequences which would naturally have ensued. William Manuel was pressed for a soldier; so the people go to church and sacrament as before.

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We set out early. This and the three next days were the hottest I ever knew in England. A gentleman, who formerly traded to Guinea, assured me, that the spirits in his thermometer (the same he had when abroad) rose as high as they did within a few degrees of the Line. About nine we should have been glad to bait; but there being no inn to be found, we lay down for a quarter of an hour under some trees, and then rode on to Slingsby. The Minister, an old acquaintance of my father’s, having desired to see me, I called at his house before I preached: And I could gladly have stayed longer with him, but I knew the congregation waited. One poor drunkard made a little disturbance; but after he was silenced all were still, and steadily attentive.

It continued intensely hot; but having the wind in our faces, (as we generally had, all along from Newcastle; and that, which way so ever we rode,) we received no hurt till we came to York. But the difficulty was, how to preach there, in a Room which in winter used to be as hot as an oven. I cut the knot, by preaching in Blake’s Square; where (the mob not being aware of us) I began and ended my discourse to a numerous congregation, without the least disturbance.

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I set a subscription on foot for building a more commodious Room. In the evening I preached at Acomb, to a calm, solid congregation. The next evening I preached at Poppleton, where the poor gladly received the Gospel: The rich heard it, and even seemed to approve. — God give them to understand and practice it!

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I resolved to preach in the Square once more, knowing God has the hearts of all men in his hands. One egg was thrown, and some bits of dirt: But this did not hinder a large Congregation from taking earnest heed to what was spoken, of Christ “the power of God, and the wisdom of God.”

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At three in the morning there were all the probable signs of a violently hot day: But about four God sent a cooling rain. It ceased about seven. But the clouds continued, and shaded us to Pocklington. Yet it was too hot to bear the House. So I stood in the main street, and cried, “If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.” A large mob soon gathered on the other side. And for fear they should not make noise enough, the good Churchwarden hired men to ring the bells. But it was lost labor; for still the bulk of the congregation heard, till I quietly finished my discourse. Before seven I reached Epworth, and preached in the market-place to a listening multitude.

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I rode on to Laseby, about thirty measured miles. After so many long journeys which I hardly felt, this short one quite exhausted my strength. However, I quickly recovered, so as to preach at three in a meadow to a large congregation. They all kneeled when I prayed, and showed such a genuine simplicity as greatly revived my spirit. At seven I preached in the new Room, which they have just finished at Grimsby.

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At seven in the morning the House just contained the people. I designed to preach abroad in the afternoon; but the rain drove us into the House again: As many as could crowded in. The rest stood without, though many, I fear, were wet to the skin.

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Before I left Newcastle I heard a strange relation, which I knew not what to think of. I then desired T. Lee, who was going to the place, to inquire particularly concerning it. He did so, and in consequence of that inquiry wrote me the following account: —

“R—— J—— lived about twelve miles from Newcastle.

“His son, some time since, married without his consent. At this he was so enraged, that he wished his right arm might burn of, if ever he gave or left him sixpence.

“However, in March last, being taken ill, he made his will, and left him all his estate. The same evening he died. On Thursday, 10, his widow laying her hand on his back, found it warm. In the evening, those who were with him went into the next room to take a little refreshment. As they were eating, they observed a disagreeable smell, but could find nothing in the room to cause it. Returning into the room where the corpse lay, they found it full of smoke. Removing the sheet which covered the corpse, they saw (to their no small amazement) the body so burnt, that the entrails were bare, and might be seen through the ribs. His right arm was nearly burnt off; his head so burnt that the brains appeared; and a smoke came out of the crown of his head, like the steam of boiling water. When they cast water upon his body, it hissed, just as if cast on red hot iron. Yet the sheet which was upon him was not singed; but that under him, with the pillowbier and pillow, and the plank on which he lay, were all burned, and looked as black as charcoal.

“They hastened to put what was left of him into the coffin, leaving some to watch by it. But after it was nailed up, a noise of burning and crackling was heard therein. None was permitted to look into it, till it was carried to Abehester church yard. It was buried near the steeple. As soon as it was brought to the grave, the steeple was observed to shake. The people hastened away; and it was well they did, for presently part of the steeple fell: So that had they stayed two minutes longer, they must have been crushed in pieces. All these circumstances were related to me and my wife by those who were eye and ear witnesses.”

I preached in a ground adjoining to the House. Toward the conclusion of my sermon, the person with whom I lodged was much offended at one who sunk down and cried aloud for mercy. Herself dropped down next, and cried as loud as her; so did several others quickly after. When prayer was made for them, one was presently filled with peace and joy in believing. In the morning I left the rest refusing to be comforted, till Christ should be revealed in their hearts.

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I preached at Ferry in my way, and in Epworth market-place about seven. The rain began just as I began speaking. But God heard the prayer, and it was stayed.

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I preached at Westwoodside, where the breach of fifteen years is now healed: All the wanderers being returned to the fold, with him who led them astray.

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As we rode over Haxey Car towards Misterton, one was relating a surprising thing that happened lately: — “A woman of Stockwith told her sister who lived with her, ‘I do not think to go to market today, for I dreamed that I was drowned in riding across one of the drains on Haxey Car.’ But she was soon laughed out of it, and went. She rode over the Car with many other market folks, and in crossing one of the drains, where the water was scarce a yard deep, slipped off her horse. Several looked on, but none once thought of pulling her out till she was past recovery.”

At one I preached to the largest congregation I have seen since I left Newcastle. All behaved with deep seriousness but one man, whom I afterward learned to be a Baptist Preacher. Just as I was taking horse he came again, and labored hard to begin a dispute: But having neither time nor strength to spare, I gave him the ground and rode away. The congregation at Epworth was full as large, if not larger than that at Misterton. Among them was a poor gray headed sinner, a mocker at all religion. But his mocking is past. He was in tears most of the time, and is now “feeling after God.”

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I left Epworth with great satisfaction, and about one preached at Clayworth. I think none was unmoved, but Michael Fenwick; who fell fast asleep under an adjoining hay rick. From thence we rode to Rotherham. When I came in, I had no strength and no voice left. However, in an hour I was able to preach to the largest congregation that I suppose was ever seen there.

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I was not able to sit up above two or three hours together. However, I preached in the morning and evening, and spoke severally to the members of the society.

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I preached about noon at Barley-Hall, and in the evening at Sheffield. After spending a short time with the society, I lay down as soon as possible. But I could not sleep before twelve o’clock; and not long together after. Yet I felt no faintness in the morning, but rose lively and well, and had my voice more clear and strong in preaching, than it had been for several days.

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I received a strange account from Edward Bennet’s eldest daughter: —

“On Tuesday, the 12th of this month, I told my husband in the morning, ‘I desire you will not go into the water today; at least, not into the deep water, On the far side of the town; for I dreamed I saw you there out of your depth, and only your head came up just above the water.’ He promised me he would not, and went to work. Soon after four in the afternoon, being at John Hanson’s, his partner’s house, she was on a sudden extremely sick, so that for some minutes she seemed just ready to expire. Then she was well in a moment. Just at that time, John Hanson, who was an excellent swimmer, persuaded her husband to go into the water on the far side of the town. He objected, — the water was deep, and he could not swim; and, being much importuned to go in, stood some time after he was undressed, and then kneeling down, prayed with an earnest and loud voice. When he rose from his knees, John, who was swimming, called him again, and treading the water, said, ‘See, it is only breast high.’ He stepped in, and sunk. A man who was near, cutting fern, and had observed him for some time, ran to the bank, and saw his head come up just above the water. The second or third time he rose, he clasped his hands, and cried aloud, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.’ Immediately he sunk, and rose no more.”

One might naturally inquire, What became of John Hanson? As soon as he saw his partner sink, he swam from him to the other side, put on his clothes, and went straight home.

About noon I preached at Woodseats; in the evening, at Sheffield. I do indeed live by preaching!

How quiet is this country now, since the chief persecutors are no more seen! How many of them have been snatched away in an hour when they looked not for it! Some time since, a woman of Thorpe often swore she would wash her hands in the heart’s blood of the next Preacher that came. But before the next Preacher came she was carried to her long home. A little before John Johnson settled at Wentworth, a stout, healthy man, who lived there, told his neighbors, “After May day we shall have nothing but praying and preaching: But I will make noise enough to stop it.” But before May day he was silent in his grave. A servant of Lord R — was as bitter as him, and told many lies purposely to make mischief: But before this was done, his mouth was stopped. He was drowned in one of the fish-ponds.

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I preached at Nottingham. We want nothing here but a larger House.

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I preached in the evening at Leicester, to a large congregation.

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I rode over to Markfield. The church contained us tolerably well in the morning; but in the afternoon, though many stayed without, it was much crowded and sultry hot. I was quite faint and weary while I read Prayers; but in preaching my strength was restored. At six I preached once more at Leicester, and delivered my own soul.

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I had much conversation with Mr.——; whom, against a thousand appearances, I will believe to be an honest, though irresolute man. “While I was very uneasy,” said he, “in the year 1741, my brother brought me to Mr. Spangenberg, and then to others of the German Brethren, to whom I was more and more attached till, in the year 1743, I went over to Marienborne. There I saw many things which I could not approve; and was more and more uneasy till I returned to England. I was afterward much employed by the Brethren. I was ordained Deacon. But still I had a sore and burdened conscience, and gained no ground in my spiritual warfare: Rather, having laid aside prayer and searching the Scripture, I was more and more dead to God. But in 1750, I awoke again, and was under great agonies of mind. And from this time I wrote to the Count again and again, and to most of the Laborers; but to no purpose. Andrew Frey’s account is true. The spirit of levity and frolicsomeness, which he justly describes, broke in about 1746, and is not purged out yet. In May last, I wrote and delivered a declaration to the Brethren met in Conference at Lindsey-House, that I did not dare to remain in their connection any longer. The same declaration I made to them here a few days ago. What farther I am to do, I know not; but I trust God will direct me.”

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On his expressing a desire to be present at our Conference, I invited him to it: And, On Wednesday, 3, in the evening, he came to the Foundery. Our Conference began the next morning, and continued till the Thursday following. From the first hour to the last there was no jarring string, but all was harmony and love.

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I took a walk in the Charter-House. I wondered that all the squares and buildings, and especially the schoolboys, looked so little. But this is easily accounted for. I was little myself when I was at school, and measured all about me by myself. Accordingly, the upper boys, being then bigger than myself, seemed to me very big and tall; quite contrary to what they appear now when I am taller and bigger than them. I question if this is not the real ground of the common imagination, that our forefathers, and in general men in past ages, were much larger than now: An imagination current in the world eighteen hundred years ago. So Virgil supposes his warrior to throw a stone that could scarce be wielded by twelve men, — Qualia nunc hominum producit corpora tellus.¹

So Homer, long before: —

Οιοι νυν βροτοι εισι.²

Whereas, in reality, men have been, at least ever since the deluge, very nearly the same as we find them now, both for stature and understanding.

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I set out in the machine, and the next evening reached Bristol.

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I preached at nine to a small congregation of earnest people at Clutton; and in the evening at Middlesey. On Saturday, 27, we rode on to Tiverton.

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I preached in the market-house to as large a congregation as ever I saw here. And all were quiet. So can God make, when it is best, all our enemies to be at peace with us.

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We rode through vehement wind, and many hard showers, to Launceston. This gave me a violent fit of the toothache, which, however, did not hinder my preaching. Such a night I never remember to have passed before; but all is good which lies in the way to glory.

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We rode to Camelford, where my toothache was cured, by rubbing treacle upon my cheek. At six I preached in the market-place. How are the lions in this town also become lambs!

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I preached about noon at Trewalder, and in the evening at Port-Isaac. This was long a barren soil; but is at length likely to bring forth much fruit.

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I rode to St. Agnes. We found the great man, Mr. Donythorne, was dead. His mother and sister sent to invite me to their house. After preaching I went thither, and was received into a comfortable lodging, with the most free and cordial affection. So in this place the knowledge of God has already traveled “from the least unto the greatest.”

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Some who live here gave me an account of the earthquake on July 15. There was first a rumbling noise under the ground, hoarser and deeper than common thunder. Then followed a trembling of the earth, which afterward waved once or twice to and fro so violently that one said he owns obliged to take a backstep, or he should have fallen down; and another, that the wall against which he was leaning seemed to be shrinking from him.

This morning I talked at large with old Mrs. Donythorne, who has her understanding entire, reads without spectacles, walks without a staff, and has scarce a wrinkle, at ninety years of age. But what is more than all this, she is teachable as a child, and groaning for salvation. In the afternoon I spent an hour with Mr. Vowler, Curate of the parish, who rejoices in the love of God, and both preaches and lives the Gospel.

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I. preached at five. I could scarce have believed if I had not heard it, that few men of learning write so correctly as an unlearned tinner speaks extempore. Mr. v:preached two such thundering sermons at church as I have scarce heard these twenty years. O how gracious is God to the poor sinners of St. Agnes! In the church and out of the church they hear the same great truths of the wrath of God against sin, and his love to those that are in Christ Jesus!

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I rode on to Illogan; but not to the house where I used to preach: Indeed his wife promised Mr. P., before he died, that she would always receive the Preachers; but she soon changed her mind. God has just taken her only son, suddenly killed by a pit falling upon him; and on Tuesday last, a young, strong man, riding to his burial, dropped off his horse stone dead. The concurrence of these awful providences added considerably to our congregation.

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I went on to Camborn, and rejoiced to hear that the gentleman who pressed Mr. Maxfield no longer persecutes the Methodists, nor will suffer any one else to do it: And in the late dearth he relieved great numbers of the poor, and saved many families from perishing. I preached, at six, on, “I will heal their backsliding;” and God applied his word. Several who had left the society for some years, came after sermon, and desired to be readmitted. O how should our bowels yearn over all that did once run well! This is the very thing we want; or how many souls might we yet pluck out of the jaws of the lion!

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I observed more and more the effects of that burning wind which was in these parts on Sunday, the 28th of last month. It not only scorched all the leaves of the trees, so as to bring midwinter upon them in two hours, but burned up all the leaves of potatoes and cabbage, and every green thing which it touched. What a mercy that it did not come a month sooner! Then it would have left little work for the reapers.

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As we rode through Gwithian parish, Mr. Harris pointed out the place where his father and many of his ancestors lived: It is now only a mountain of sand. Within a few years this so increased as to bury both the church and the whole town.

I preached, at six, to a numerous congregation in Ludgvan. Some years since, when there was a flourishing society in Gulval, (the parish adjoining,) there was none at all here. But how is the scene changed! In Gulval not one class, not one member, remains: In Ludgvan there is a lively society!

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I preached in the new House at St. Just, the largest and most commodious in the county.

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We rode to the Land’s End. I know no natural curiosity like this. The vast ragged stones rise on every side, when you are near the point of land, with green turf between, as level and smooth as if it were the effect of art. And the rocks which terminate the land are so torn by the sea, that they appear like great heaps of ruins.

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I preached at St. Just at nine. At one, the congregation in Morva stood on a sloping ground, rank above rank, as in a theatre. Many of them bewailed their want of God; and many tasted how gracious he is. At five I preached in Newlyn, to an huge multitude; and one only seemed to be offended, — a very good sort of woman, who took great pains to get away, crying aloud, “Nay, if going to church and sacrament will not put us to heaven, I know not what will.”

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I preached in Lelant at one. Many from St. Ives were present, from whom I learned that Mr. Swindells would have preached abroad the day before, but was hindered. It is well he was For this occasioned the offer of a meadow near the town, far more convenient than the street. At six I stood at the bottom of it, the people rising higher and higher before me. I believe not many were left in the town; and all behaved as in the presence of God. The next evening the congregation was enlarged by the addition of many from the country; and Wednesday, 14, their number was larger still. We did not open the door of the Room till just half hour past eight; by which means the heat was not intolerable, till I had done preaching: I then retired, and left the other Preachers to perform the rest of the service.

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As we rode toward Helstone, I think the sun was near as hot as it was at midsummer; yet all along the trees looked as in the depth of winter, that scorching wind having destroyed all it touched.

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I looked over Mr. Borlase’s “Antiquities of Cornwall.” He is a fine writer, and quite master of his subject, who has distinguished, with amazing accuracy, the ancient Saxon monuments from the more ancient Roman, and from those of the Druids, the most ancient of all.

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I preached at Porkellis at one, and at Redruth in the evening.

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At eight many of the French prisoners were mixed with the usual congregation. This was doubled at one; but still came nothing near to that which assembled at Gwennap in the evening. It rained all the time I preached; but none went away. A shower of rain will not fright experienced soldiers.

Here I learned are markable occurrence: — A few days ago, some hundred English, who had been prisoners in France, were landed at Penzance, by a cartel ship. Many of these passed through Redruth, going home; but in a most forlorn condition. None showed more compassion to them than the French: They gave them food, clothes, or money, and told them, “We wish we could do more; but we have little for ourselves here.” Several who had only two shirts, gave a naked Englishman one. A French boy, meeting an English boy, who was half naked, took hold of him, and stopped him, cried over him a while, and then pulled off his own coat, and put it upon him!

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In the evening both the House and court at Penryn were more than filled; so that I willingly embraced the offer of Mr. H., and preached before his door at twelve on Tuesday. It was an extremely pleasant place, on the side of an hill, commanding a fruitful vale, the opposite hills, and Falmouth Harbor. Tall trees hung over me, and surrounded a bowling green which was behind me. A wide door is now open at Penryn also. O that none may shut it!

At six in the evening I reached Bezore, and began preaching immediately. It was a season of uncommon refreshment, particularly to some of Truro. Afterwards I met the society in the House: A young man was cut to the heart, and cried aloud, then another, and another, till my voice was quite lost. But I continued crying to God, and he heard, and gave an answer of peace. Many were filled with consolation; and four who had wandered for some years resolved to set out anew.

Yet I was not quite reconciled to my lodging. Not but the grotto itself was very venerable, but I did not like the circumstance of having a man and his wife in the same room. I therefore willingly accepted an invitation front Mr. Painter, and walked over with him to Truro.

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I walked to Bezore, and preached at five. Afterwards I spoke to each member of the society. They surprised me much. So lively and tender hearted a people I have not lately seen. After spending an hour with a few friends in Truro, I rode forward to Grampound, a mean, inconsiderable, dirty village. However, it is a borough town! Between twelve and one I began preaching in a meadow, to a numerous congregation. While we were singing, I observed a person in black on the far side of the meadow, who said, “Come down; you have no business there.” Some boys who were on a wall, taking it for granted that he spoke to them, got down in all haste. I went on, and he walked away. I afterwards understood that he was the Minister and the Mayor of Grampound. Soon after two Constables came, and said, “Sir, the Mayor says you shall not preach within his borough.” I answered, “The Mayor has no authority to hinder me. But it is a point not worth contesting.” So I went about a musket shot farther, and left the borough to Mr. Mayor’s disposal.

A large congregation was at St. Ewe in the evening, many of whom were in Mr. Walker’s societies. Some of them came from St. Columb, twelve miles off. And they did not come in vain. The flame of love ran from heart to heart; and scarce any remained unmoved.

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I rode to Mevagissey, which lies on the south sea just opposite to Port-Isaac on the North. When I was here last, we had no place in the town: I could only preach about half a mile from it. But things are altered now: I preached just over the town, to almost all the inhabitants; and all were still as night. The next evening a drunken man made some noise behind me. But after a few words were spoken to him, he quietly listened to the rest of the discourse.

On the south side of the town, there is an extremely fine walk, broad and smooth, over the top of high rocks, from whence is a view of the main sea at a vast distance below, and all the coast east and west.

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At half hour after twelve, I preached once more, and took my leave of them. All the time I stayed, the wind blew from the sea, so that no boat could stir out. By this means all the fishermen (who are the chief part of the town) had opportunity of hearing.

At six I preached at St. Austle, a neat little town on the side of a fruitful hill.

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The whole Church Service was performed by a Clergyman, above ninety years of age. His name is Stephen Hugo. He has been Vicar of St. Austle between sixty and seventy years. O what might a man full of faith and zeal have done for God in such a course of time! At two I preached in St. Stephen’s, near a lone house, on the side of a barren mountain; but neither the house nor the court could contain the people; so we went into a meadow, where all might kneel, (which they generally do in Cornwall,) as well as stand and hear. And they did hear, and sing, and pray, as for life. I saw none careless or inattentive among them.

About five I preached at St. Austle to an exceeding civil people. But when will they be wounded, that they may be healed?

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I rode to Medros, in Luxulian parish.

I have not seen so stately a room in Cornwall, as either this hall, or the chamber over it. The place likewise where the gardens were, the remains of the terrace walk, the stately trees still left, with many other tokens, show that grand men lived here once. But they are vanished like smoke, their estates torn in pieces, and well-nigh their memory perished.

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We rode to Liskeard, I think one of the largest and pleasantest towns in Cornwall. I preached about the middle of the town, in a broad, convenient place. No person made any noise at all. At six in the morning I had nearly the same congregation. Afterwards I examined the society, and was agreeably surprised to hear that every one of them had found peace with God; and (what was still more remarkable) that none of them has left their first love; that at this day, not one is in darkness!

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We rode on to the Dock, which gave us a very different prospect. Of those whom I joined several years ago, hardly one half remained. Such is the fruit of disputing! And yet the congregations are more numerous than ever; and as deeply attentive as any in the kingdom. So there is hope God will yet revive his work.

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I preached at Launceston.

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I rode to Mary Week. A large congregation was gathered there, many of whom came seven or eight miles. The House stands in the midst of orchards and meadows, surrounded by gently rising hills. I preached on the side of a meadow newly mown, to a deeply attentive people.

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I rode to Bideford; but did not reach it till after five, the hour appointed for my preaching. So I began without delay, in an open part of the street, where we alighted. One man made a little noise at first; but he was easily silenced: All the rest (a large number) quietly attended, though the wind was piercing cold, while I opened and applied, “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

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Between twelve and one I reached North Moulton, and, finding the congregation ready, began immediately. There have been great tumults here since I saw them before; but God has now rebuked the storm. When the Gentry would neither head nor pay the mob any more, the poor rabble were quiet as lambs.

We rode on to Tiverton in the afternoon. On the three following days I saw as many of the societies as I could.

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We had heavy rain for some miles; then it cleared up, and we had a pleasant ride to Bristol.

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I rose at my usual hour; but the soreness and swelling of my face, occasioned by my taking cold on Saturday, made it impracticable for me to preach. In the evening I applied boiled nettles: They took away the pain in a moment; and the swelling in a few hours.

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I began visiting the classes at Kingswood; steady, but not zealous. It is impossible they should stand here long; they must go on, or go back.

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About two I preached at Paulton; but no house could contain us: So that I was forced to stand in the open air, though the wind was very high and very cold. Thence we rode to the honest colliers at Coleford. These have the zeal which their brethren at Kingswood want; in consequence of which they are the most numerous, as well as the most lively, society in Somersetshire.

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I preached to a very different congregation at Bradford, well dressed, and well bred: And yet of the very same spirit, hungering and thirsting after righteousness.

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After preaching at Freshford, I rode on to Kingswood.

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Being at dinner, in a moment I felt as if a small bone had stuck in the palate of my mouth. Nothing was to be seen; but the swelling and inflammation increased till toward evening, (notwithstanding all means that could be used,) and then spread to both the tonsils. In the morning I was rather worse than better, till about half an hour after eight. Then as the disorder came in a moment, it went in a moment, and I was as well as ever.

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I preached about noon at Bath, and in the evening at Escot, near Lavington.

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In my return, a man met me near Hannam, and told me the Schoolhouse at Kingswood was burned down. I felt not one moment’s pain, knowing that God does all things well. When I came thither, I received a fuller account: About eight on Monday evening, two or three boys went into the gallery, up two pair of stairs. One of them heard a strange crackling in the room above. Opening the staircase door, he was beat back by smoke, on which he cried out, “Fire! Murder! Fire!” Mr. Baynes, hearing this, ran immediately down, and brought up a pail of water. But when he went into the room, and saw the blaze, he had not presence of mind to go up to it, but threw the water upon the floor. Meantime one of the boys rung the bell; another called John Maddern from the next house, who ran up, as did James Burges quickly after, and found the room all in a flame. The deal partitions took fire immediately, which spread to the roof of the house. Plenty of water was now brought; but they could not come nigh the place where it was wanted, the room being so filled with flame and smoke, that none could go into it. At last a long ladder, which lay in the garden, was reared up against the wall of the house. But it was then observed, that one of the sides of it was broke in two, and the other quite rotten. However, John How (a young man, who lived next door) run up it, with an axe in his hand. But he then found the ladder was so short, that, as he stood on the top of it, he could but just lay one hand over the battlements. How he got over to the leads none can tell: But he did so, and quickly broke through the roof, on which a vent being made, the smoke and flame issued out as from a furnace: Those who were at the foot of the stairs with water, being able to go no further, then went through the smoke to the door of the leads, and poured it down through the tiling. By this means the fire was quickly quenched, having only consumed a part of the partition, with a box of clothes, and a little damaged the roof, and the floor beneath.

It is amazing that so little hurt was done; for the fire, which began in the middle of the long room, (none can imagine how; for no person had been there for several hours before,) was so violent, that it broke every pane of glass but two, in the window, both at the east and west end. What was more amazing still, was, that it did not hurt either the beds, (which, when James Burges came in, seemed all covered with flame,) nor the deal partitions on the other side of the room, though it beat against them for a considerable time. What can we say to these things, but that God had fixed the bounds which it could not pass?

We observed Friday, the 28th, as a solemn fast: And from this time the work of God revived in Bristol. We were indeed brought very low. A society of nine hundred members was shrunk to little more than half the number. But God now began to turn our captivity, and put a new song in our mouth.

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I preached in the new preaching-house at Pill. How is the face of things changed here! Such a sink of sin was scarce to be found: And now how many are rejoicing in God their Savior!

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Leaving the flame just kindling in Bristol, I rode to Newbury; and on Tuesday to London. I found the same fire kindled here also and increasing more and more.

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I rode to Bedford, and talked largely will Mr.——, whom God had well-nigh set at liberty: But his feet are again in the net. He did not indeed deny, nor much extenuate, any of the things he had often related: But at length he told me in terms “There are such things among the Brethren, that I can never join them more: Yet I dare not speak against them, and join any other people, for fear of grieving the Savior.” O Lord, when shall this witchcraft come to an end? When wilt thou maintain thine own cause?

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We rode to Newmarket, and the next day to Norwich; where I now found a prospect of doing good. The congregation daily increased, and grew more and more serious. I spoke to many who were deeply convinced of sin, and some who were rejoicing in God, and walking in the light of his countenance.

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I was shown Dr. Taylor’s new meeting house, perhaps the most elegant one in Europe. It is eight square, built of the finest brick, with sixteen sash windows below, as many above, and eight skylights in the dome; which, indeed, are purely ornamental. The inside is finished in the highest taste, and is as clean as any Nobleman’s saloon. The communion table is fine mahogany; the very latches of the pew doors are polished brass. How can it be thought that the old, coarse Gospel should find admission here?

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A man had spoken to me the last week, as I was going through Thetford, and desired me to preach at Lakenheath, near Mildenhall, in Suffolk: I now purposed so to do, and rode thither from Thetford. One Mr. Evans had lately built a large and convenient preaching-house there, at his own expense. It was more than filled at six o’clock, many standing at the door. At five in the morning (as uncommon a thing as this was in those parts) the house was nearly filled again with earnest, loving, simple people. Several of them came in to Mr. E.’s house afterward, stood a while, and then burst into tears. I promised to call upon them again, and left them much comforted.

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I returned to London. Much confusion had been in my absence, occasioned by some imprudent words spoken by one who seemed to be strong in the faith.

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I heard all who were concerned face to face; but was utterly unable to judge whether there was willful sin, lying on either side, or only human infirmity. For the present I leave it to the Searcher of hearts, who will bring all things to light in due season.

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I had another long hearing of the same intricate cause; but with no more success: One side flatly affirmed; the other flatly denied. This is strange: But it is more strange that those who seem so strong in faith should have no union of spirit with each other.

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I baptized Henriquez Judah Seniore, a Portuguese Jew, more than sixty years of age. He seemed to have no confidence in himself, but to be waiting for “the consolation of Israel.”

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In the evening I retired to Lewisham, and spent the following days in finishing “A Preservative against Unsettled Notions in Religion;” designed for the use of all those who are under my care, but chiefly of the young Preachers.

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I had an opportunity (which I had long desired) of spending an hour or two with the Rev. Mr.——. I would have appointed a time for our meeting weekly; but he declined it: Why, I cannot tell.

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John Nelson wrote me a letter, part of which I have subjoined: — “WE have had four triumphant deaths lately, of three men and one woman. The woman was Hannah Richardson, of Brestfield. When Enoch Williams preached there, she was the bitterest persecutor in the town, and vowed, if ever he preached there again, she would help to stone him to death. But he never went to try. The only one of ‘this wave’ in the town was Ruth Blachser. Against her she was violently enraged, till Ruth went to her house, reasoned the case, and at length persuaded her to go to Dewsbury to hear Mr. Charles Wesley. That day God begot her by his word, so that she could never rest till she found Christ in her own heart: And for two years she has been a steady follower of him. By her zeal and circumspect walking many have been since stirred up to seek the Lord. As soon as she was taken ill, she began to praise God more than ever, for the work he had wrought in her soul. She said, ‘At first I thought I had no will, and that God’s love was all that was in my heart: But when my little child gave a sudden shriek, I found my heart was not free; and it damped the love of God in my soul for two hours. But the Lord is come again, and now I am fully assured he does take up all the room in my heart. He has sanctified me throughout, body, soul, and spirit. I am a witness for Jesus Christ, that he is a greater Savior than Adam was a sinner. O watch and pray, and ye shall not be overcome in the hour of temptation! Keep close to your meetings, and the Lord will meet you. If you neglect these, or private prayer, you will become barren in your own souls, and the God of this world will get an advantage over you. But if you keep close to God and one another, you will find Jesus a Savior to the uttermost, as I, the most unworthy of mankind, do.’ For some time before she died, her prayer was turned into praise. All her prayer then was, ‘Thy will be done.’ We have one by us that we think will hardly live till tomorrow, who is above seven, and is as a shock of corn full ripe, crying out, ‘Come, Lord Jesus!’”

In the Christmas week I rode down to Bristol; where, Sunday, JANUARY 1, 1758, we began the year with the great congregation at four, rejoicing and praising God.

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