1773

We (as usual) solemnly renewed our covenant with God. Monday, 4. I began revising my letters and papers. One of them was wrote above an hundred and fifty years ago, (in 1619,) I suppose by my grandfather’s father, to her he was to marry in a few days. Several were wrote by my brothers and me when at school, many while we were at the University; abundantly testifying (if it be worth knowing) what was our aim from our youth up.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 482

I called where a child was dying of the smallpox, and rescued her from death and the Doctors, who were giving her saffron, etc., to drive them out! Can any one be so ignorant still?

We observed Friday, the 8th, as a day of fasting and prayer, on account of the general want of trade and scarcity of provisions. The next week I made an end of revising my letters; and from those I had both wrote and received, I could not but make one remark, — that for above these forty years, of all the friends who were once the most closely united; and afterwards separated from me, every one had separated himself! He left me, not I him. And from both mine and their own letters, the steps whereby they did this are clear and undeniable.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 482

In my scraps of time this week, I read over “An Account of the European Settlements in America.” But some part of it I cannot receive; I mean, touching the manners of the native Americans: If it be true, that “they all nearly resemble each other,” then, from the knowledge I have of not a few American nations, I must judge a great part of that account to be pure, absolute, romance; and I suspect it to have been transcribed from some papers which I myself read before I embarked for America.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 483

I buried the remains of poor E. T., of whom, ever since she died, her husband speaks as a most excellent woman, and a most affectionate wife! I have known many such instances: Many couples, who while they lived together spoke of each other as mere sinners; but as soon as either was dead, the survivor spake of the deceased as the best creature in the world.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 483

Captain Webb preached at the Foundery. I admire the wisdom of God, in still raising up various Preachers, according to the various tastes of men. The Captain is all life and fire: Therefore, although he is not deep or regular, yet many who would not hear a better Preacher flock together to hear him. And many are convinced under his preaching; some justified; a few built up in love.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 483

I had much conversation with T. M. He said, his printing that wretched book against me, was owing to the pleasing instances of Mr. Wh. and Lady H. I cannot tell how to believe it; but if it was, they might have been better employed.

On Monday, 15, and the following days, I took a little journey into Surrey. On the road I read Bonavici’s history of the late war in Italy. I think the late revolution at Genoa, which he recites at large, is altogether as strange as that of Massaniello at Naples. That an unarmed rabble, without any head, should drive a disciplined army, under an experienced General, who were in possession of the arms, the forts, and the whole city, not only out of the city and forts, but out of the whole territory of Genoa, is a plain proof that God rules in all the kingdoms of the earth, and executes his will by whomsoever it pleaseth him.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 483

A very remarkable paragraph was published in one of the Edinburgh Papers: —

“We learn from the Rosses, in the county of Donegal, in Ireland, that a Danish man-of-war, called the North Crown, commanded by the Baron D’Ulfeld, arrived off those islands, from a voyage of discovery towards the Pole. They sailed from Bornholme, in Norway, the 1st of June, 1769, with stores for eighteen months, and some able astronomers, landscape-painters, and every apparatus suitable to the design; and steering N. by E. half E., for thirty-seven days, with a fair wind and open sea, discovered a large rocky island, which having doubled, they proceeded W. N. W., till the 17th of September, where they found themselves in a strong current, between two high lands, seemingly about ten leagues distant, which carried them at a prodigious rate for three days, when, to their great joy, they saw the main land of America, that lies between the most westerly part of the settlements on Hudson’s River and California. Here they anchored, in a fine cove, and found abundance of wild deer and buffaloes, with which they victualled; and sailing southward, in three months got into the Pacific Ocean, and returned by the Straits of Le Maine and the West India Islands. They have brought many curiosities, particularly a prodigious bird, called a contor, or contose, above six feet in height, of the eagle kind, whose wings, expanded, measure twenty-two feet four inches. After bartering some skins with the country people, for meal, rum, and other necessaries, they sailed for Bremen, to wait the thaw, previous to their return to Copenhagen.

“February 24, 1773.”

If this account is true, one would hope not only the King of Denmark will avail himself of so important a discovery.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 484

I was invited to see Mr. Cox’s celebrated museum. I cannot say, my expectation was disappointed; for I expected nothing, and I found nothing but a heap of pretty, glittering trifles, prepared at an immense expense: For what end? To please the fancy of fine ladies and pretty gentlemen.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 485

In the evening I set out for Bristol, and after spending a few days there, on Monday, 15, went to Stroud, and on Tuesday, 16, to Worcester. Here I inquired concerning the “intelligence sent Mr. Hill from Worcester,” (as he says in his warm book,) “of the shocking behavior of some that professed to be perfect.” It was supposed, that intelligence came from Mr. Skinner, a dear lover of me and all connected with me. The truth is, one of the society, after having left it, behaved extremely ill; but none who professed to love God with all their heart have done any thing contrary to that profession.

I came to Liverpool on Saturday, 20. Monday, 22. The Captain was in haste to get my chaise on board. About eleven we went on board ourselves: And before one, we ran on a sandbank. So, the ship being fast, we went ashore again. Tuesday, 23. We embarked again on board the Freemason, with six other cabin passengers, four gentlemen, and two gentlewomen, one of whom was daily afraid of falling in labor. This gave me several opportunities of talking closely and of praying with her and her companion. We did not come abreast of Holyhead till Thursday morning,. We had then a strong gale, and a rolling sea. Most of the passengers were sick enough, but it did not affect me at all. In the evening the gentlemen desired I would pray with them; so we concluded the day in a solemn and comfortable manner.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 485

We landed at Dunleary, and hired a coach to Dublin. Saturday,

27. I buried the remains of Richard Walsh. For several months, he had been quite disordered; but for some time before his death, his senses returned, and he cried rejoicing and praising God.

On Monday and Tuesday I examined the society, a little lessened, but now well united together. I was a little surprised to find the Commissioners of the Customs would not permit my chaise to be landed, because, they said, the Captain of a packet-boat had no right to bring over goods. Poor pretense! However, I was more obliged to them than I then knew; for had it come on shore, it would have been utterly spoiled.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 485

Having hired such a chaise as I could, I drove to Edinderry. Tuesday, 6. I went on to Tyrrel’s Pass. Thursday, 8. I preached in the Court-House at Molingar in the morning, and in that at Longford in the evening, and again at eight in the morning, (being Good-Friday,) and then went on to Athlone.

I believe all the Officers, with a whole army of soldiers, were present in the evening: So were most of them the next. I would fain have preached abroad On Easter Day, but the rain would not permit. However, the whole congregation in the House behaved with so remarkable a seriousness, that it was good to be there; and I could not be sorry, that we were driven into it.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 486

I preached at Ballinasloe and Aghrim. Tuesday, 13. As I went into Eyre-Court, the street was full of people, who gave us a loud huzza when we passed through the market-place. I preached in the open air, to a multitude of people, all civil, and most of them serious. A great awakening has been in this town lately; and many of the most notorious and profligate sinners are entirely changed, and are happy witnesses of the gospel salvation.

I preached at Birr in the evening; Wednesday, 14, at Ferbatin and Coolylough; Thursday, 15, in the church at Clare, one of the neatest I have seen in the kingdom; in the evening I preached at Tullamore. I believe all the troopers were present; none of whom was more affected than one who had been a sinner far above his fellows. He was present again at five in the morning, and seemed fully resolved to forsake all sin.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 486

In the evening, and at ten on Saturday, I preached at Portarlington. On Saturday evening at Mount-Mellick, and on Sunday, 18, at nine, and again at twelve, to an artless, earnest, serious people. In the afternoon I went on to Montrath. The rain constrained me to preach in the house; and God was present, both to wound and to heal.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 486

In the evening I preached in the new House at Kilkenny, to a numerous congregation, almost as genteel and full as unawakened as that at Portarlington. The next evening it was considerably larger, and many seemed to be deeply affected. Even at this fountain-head of wickedness, I trust, God will always have a seed to serve him.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 486

Some applied to the Quakers at Enniscorthy, for the use of their meeting-house. They refused: So I stood at Hugh M’Laughlin’s door, and both those within and without could hear. I was in doubt which way to take from hence, one of my chaise-horses being much tired; till a gentleman of Ballyrane, near Wexford, told me, if I would preach at his house the next evening, he would meet me on the road with a fresh horse. So I complied, though it was some miles out of the way. Accordingly, he met us on Thursday, 22, six or seven miles from Enniscorthy. But we found his mare would not draw at all: So we were forced to go on as we could. I preached in the evening at Ballyrane, to a deeply serious congregation. Early in the morning we set out, and, at two in the afternoon, came to Ballibac-Ferry.

A troop of sailors ran down to the shore, to see the chaise put into the boat. I was walking at a small distance, when I heard them cry out, “Avast! Avast! The coach is overset into the river.” I thought, “However, it is well my bags are on shore; so my papers are not spoiled.” In less than an hour they fished up the chaise, and got it safe into the boat. As it would not hold us all, I got in myself, leaving the horses to come after. At half-hour after three I came to Passage. Finding no post-chaise could be had, and having no time to spare, I walked on (six or seven miles) to Waterford, and began preaching without delay, on, “My yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 487

I had much satisfaction, both morning and evening, in the number and seriousness of the congregation. Sunday, 25. Word being brought me that the Mayor was willing I should preach in the Bowling-Green, I went thither in the evening. An huge multitude was quickly gathered together. I preached on, “I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God.” Some attempted to disturb, but without success; the bulk of the congregation being deeply attentive. But as I was drawing to a conclusion, some of the Papists set on their work in earnest. They knocked down John Christian, with two or three more, who endeavored to quiet them; and then began to roar like the waves of the sea: But hitherto could they come, and no farther. Some gentlemen, who stood near me, rushed into the midst of them; and, after bestowing some heavy blows, seized the ringleader, and delivered him to the Constable; and one of them undertook to conduct me home. So few received any hurt, but the rioters themselves; which, I trust, will make them more peaceable for the time to come.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 487

I went on to Cloheen; Tuesday, to Cork; Wednesday, to Bandon. The wind being boisterous, I preached in the House, well filled with serious hearers. Even the fashionable ones, who were not a few, were uncommonly attentive. So they were the next evening. Such congregations had not been seen in Bandon for twenty years; and the society was near doubled within a twelvemonth. So had God blessed the labors of William Collins! — Another proof that, at present, a prophet is not without honor, even in his own country.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 488

We had a solemn watch-night at Cork. I believe the confidence of many was shaken, while I was enforcing, “Though I had all faith, so as to remove mountains, and have not love, I am nothing.” An hard saying! but yet absolutely necessary to be insisted on, particularly among the people called Methodists. Otherwise, how many of them will build on the sand, on an unloving, unholy faith!

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 488

I left Cork with much satisfaction, having seen the fruit of my labor. In the afternoon we had a quick succession of piercing wind, rain, hail, and snow; and in a short time after, loud thunder, with a few flashes of lighting. We lodged at Charleville; and on Wednesday, 5, after an easy ride, dined at Limerick.

Here I found, as in time past, a settled, serious people, but in danger of sinking into formality. Thursday, 6. I hired a post-chaise for Balligarane, the man promising to go two miles and a half an hour: But he could not perform it. In about five hours he could not drive quite twelve miles. I then took horse, and, after riding two miles, came just at the time I had appointed. In the evening I preached at Newmarket. Papists and Protestants flocked together from every side; and, for the time, they appeared to be greatly affected: But who will endure to the end?

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 488

I returned to Limerick, but could not preach abroad, because of the severe weather. Monday, 10. After the morning preaching, I met the select society. All of these once experienced salvation from sin: Some enjoy it still; but the greater part are, more or less, shorn of their strength; not without hope of recovering it.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 488

The north wind was so high and sharp, that it was thought best I should preach within. But, had I known what a congregation was assembled in the barracks, I should have preached there at all events. I am afraid Satan made us consult our own ease more than the glory of God.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 489

I took my leave of this affectionate people, and in the evening preached at Clare. What a contrast between Clare and Limerick! — A little ruinous town; no inn that could afford us either meat, or drink, or comfortable lodging; no society, and next to no congregation, till the soldiers came. After preaching, I spent an agreeable hour with the Commanding Officer; and, having procured a tolerable lodging in the barracks, slept in peace.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 489

We went on, through a most dreary country, to Galway; where, at the late survey, there were twenty thousand Papists, and five hundred Protestants. But which of them are Christians, have the mind that was in Christ and walk as he walked? And without this, how little does it avail, whether they are called Protestants or Papists! At six I preached in the Court-House, to a large congregation, who all behaved well. Friday, 14. In the evening I preached at Ballinrobe; and on Saturday went on to Castlebar. Entering the town, I was struck with the sight of the Charter-School; — no gate to the courtyard, a large chasm in the wall, heaps of rubbish before the house-door, broken windows in abundance; the whole a picture of slothfulness, nastiness, and desolation! I did not dream there were any inhabitants, till, the next day, I saw about forty boys and girls walking from church. As I was just behind them, I could not but observe,

1. That there was neither Master nor Mistress, though, it seems, they were both well:

2. That both boys and girls were completely dirty:

3. That none of them seemed to have any garters on, their stockings hanging about their heels:

4. That in the heels, even of many of the girls’ stockings, were holes larger than a crown-piece. I gave a plain account of these things to the Trustees of the Charter-School in Dublin: Whether they are altered or no, I cannot tell.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 489

I preached in the Grand-Jury room, morning and evening, to a lovely congregation, whose hearts seemed to be as melting wax. Monday,

17. I spent a comfortable afternoon with the amiable family at Rehins. I know not that I could bear many such days: Strong cordials must not be taken too often. Tuesday, 18. I went on to Tubbercarragh, and on Wednesday morning to Sligo. Here I expected little comfort, as having little expectation of doing any good; and the less, as some strollers were acting a play over the market-house where I was to preach. At seven I began in our own Room. Many of the soldiers, with some Officers, were present; and the whole congregation, rich and poor, were so remarkably serious, that I had a faint hope we shall see some fruit, even in cold, barren Sligo.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 490

We had a large congregation of soldiers, as well as townsmen, at five in the morning. In the evening I preached in the market-house to such a congregation as has not been seen here for many years. Surely God is giving yet another call to the poor, stupid sinners of Sligo.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 490

I went on to Manorhamilton, and preached to a large and serious congregation. Saturday, 22. In our way to Swadlingbar, the hinder axle-tree of the chaise broke in two. I borrowed an horse, and rode on till we overtook one of our friends who was a coach maker. By his help the damage was repaired, and things made, at least, as good as they were before.

In the evening we had a large congregation of (mostly) experienced Christians, and a larger at eight in the morning on Sunday; but the grand concourse was in the evening; when the hearts of the people were as wax melting before the fire, and I trust many received the stamp of love.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 490

About noon I preached to just such another congregation at Tonnylommon. Afterwards I talked with four men and eight women, who believe they are saved from sin. Their words were in wisdom as well as in power: I think none who heard them could doubt of their testimony. One of my horses having a shoe loose, I borrowed Mr. Watson’s horse, and left him with the chaise. When we came near Enniskillen, I desired two only to ride with me, and the rest of our friends to keep at a distance. Some masons were at work on the first bridge, who gave us some coarse words. We had abundance more as we rode through the town; but many soldiers being in the street, and taking knowledge of me in a respectful manner, the mob shrunk back. An hour after, Mr. Watson came in the chaise. Before he came to the bridge, many ran together, and began to throw whatever came next to hand. The bridge itself they had blocked up with large stones, so that a carriage could not pass; but an old man cried out, “Is this the way you use strangers?” and rolled away the stones. The mob quickly rewarded him by plastering him over with mortar from head to foot. They then fell upon the carriage, which they cut with stones in several places, and well nigh covered with dirt and mortar. From one end of the town to the other, the stones flew thick about the coachman’s head. Some of them were two or three pounds’ weight, which they threw with all their might. If but one of them had struck Him, it would have effectually prevented him from driving any farther; and then, doubtless, they would have given an account of the chaise and horses. I preached at Sydore in the evening and morning, and then set out for Roosky. The road lay not far from Enniskillen. When we came pretty near the town, both men and women saluted us, first with bad words, and then with dirt and stones. My horses soon left them behind; but not till they had broke one of the windows, the glass of which came pouring in upon me; but did me no further hurt.

About an hour after, John Smith came to Enniskillen. The masons on the bridge preparing for battle, he was afraid his horse would leap with him into the river; and therefore chose to alight. Immediately they poured in upon him a whole shower of dirt and stones. However, he made his way through the town, though pretty much daubed and bruised. At Roosky, Mr. Macburney, one of our Preachers, gave me the following account: — On Thursday, March 4, he went to Mr. Perry’s, a quarter of a mile from Achalun, a village six or seven miles from Enniskillen. In the evening he was singing an hymn, when a large mob beset the house. Six of these rushed in, armed with clubs, and immediately fell upon the people; but many of them joining together thrust them out, and shut and fastened the door. On this they broke every pane of glass in the windows, and threw in a large quantity of stones. They then broke into the house, through a weak part of the wall, and hauling out both men and women, beat them without mercy. Soon after, they dragged out Mr. Macburney, whom M—— N—— instantly knocked down. They continued beating him on the head and breast, while he lay senseless on the ground. Yet, after a while, coming a little to himself, he got up; but not being quite sensible, staggered, and fell again. Then one of them set his foot upon his face, swearing he would tread the Holy Ghost out of him. Another ran his stick into his mouth. As soon as he could speak, he said, “May God forgive you! I do.” They then set him on his horse, and M—— N—— got up behind, and forced him to gallop down the rocky mountain to the town. There they kept him, till a gentleman took him out of their hands, and entertained and lodged him in the most hospitable manner. But his bruises, on the head and breast in particular, would not suffer him to sleep; and ever since he has felt such inward pain and weakness, that it is a wonder he is still alive.

One of those that was much abused was Mr. Mitchell, who lives about a mile from the town. On Saturday the mob came to his house, about eight in the evening, swearing they would have his father’s heart’s blood. They threw many large stones at the windows, and broke a great hole in the door. Through this hole, Mr. Mitchell, seeing no other remedy, fired twice with small shot. At the second shot, they ran away with all speed, no man looking behind him.

Mr. Perry and Mitchell applying to Mr. Irwin, of Green-Hill, he granted warrants for six of the rioters; and the next week for fifteen more; but the Constable would not take them; and the next week, at the Assizes held in Enniskillen, the Grand-Jury threw out all the bills! Therefore, it is to these honorable gentlemen I am obliged for all the insults and outrage I met with. But, meantime, where is liberty, civil or religious? Does it exist in Achalun or Enniskillen?

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 490

We set out at half-hour past two, and reached Omagh a little before eleven. Finding I could not reach Ding-Bridge by two o’clock in the chaise, I rode forward with all the speed I could; but the horse dropping a shoe, I was so retarded that I did not reach the place till between three and four. I found the Minister and the people waiting; but the church would not near contain them; so I preached near it to a mixed multitude of rich and poor, Churchmen, Papists, and Presbyterians. I was a little weary and faint when I came, the sun having shone exceeding hot; but the number and behavior of the congregation made me forget my own weariness. Having a good horse, I rode to the place where I was to lodge (two miles off) in about an hour. After tea, they told me another congregation was waiting; so I began preaching without delay; and warned them of the madness which was spreading among them, namely, leaving the church. Most of them, I believe, will take the advice; I hope all that are of our society. The family here put me in mind of that at Rehins: They breathe the same spirit.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 492

I went on to Londonderry. Friday, 28. I was invited to see the Bishop’s palace, (a grand and beautiful structure,) and his garden, newly laid, and exceeding pleasant. Here I innocently gave some offense to the gardener, by mentioning the English of a Greek word. But he set us right, warmly assuring us that the English name of the flower is not Crane’s bill, but Geranium!

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 493

We walked out to one of the pleasantest spots which I have seen in the kingdom. It is a garden laid out on the steep side of an hill; one shady walk of which, in particular, commands all the vale and the hill beyond. The owner finished his walks, — and died.

In the evening I preached to a serious, artless congregation, at Fahun, seven miles west from Derry. On Whit-Sunday, MAY 30, I dined at Mr. S.’s, a sensible, friendly man; where were five Clergymen besides me; all of whom attended the preaching every evening. One would have imagined, from this friendliness of the Clergy, joined with the good will both of the Bishop and Dean, the society would increase swiftly. But, in fact, it does not increase at all; it stands just as it was two years ago: So little does the favor of man advance the work of God!

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 493

At noon I preached at Muff, a town five miles northeast of Derry. In returning, the wind being in our back, and the sun in our face, it was intensely hot. But what signifies either pain or pleasure, that passes away like a dream?

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 493

I preached at the New-Buildings, and spent an hour with the society. I found them as lively as ever, and more exactly regular than any society in these parts.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 494

I took my leave of this pleasant city, and agreeable people. When we came to the foot of the mountain beyond Dungevan, my horses did not choose to draw me any farther; so I walked on seven or eight miles, and ordered them to follow me to Cookstown.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 494

At noon I preached to a large congregation on the Green, at Castle-Caulfield, and in the evening near the barracks at Charlemount.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 494

We went on to Armagh. The evening congregation in the avenue was very large, and exceeding serious; rich and poor kneeling down on the grass when I went to prayer.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 494

I walked over the fine improvements which the Primate has made near his lodge. The ground is hardly two miles round; but it is laid out to the best advantage. Part is garden, part meadow, part planted with shrubs or trees of various kinds. The house is built of fine white stone, and is fit for a nobleman. He intends to carry away a bog which lies behind it, and have a large piece of water in its place. He intends also to improve the town greatly, and to execute many other grand designs; I doubt too many even for a Primate of Ireland, that is above seventy years old! June 6. — (Being Trinity-Sunday.) At nine I explained the great text of St. John to an exceeding large congregation. We had at church an anthem, which I know not that I have heard these fifty years, “Praise the Lord, O my soul;” and sung in a manner that would not have disgraced any of our English Cathedrals. The congregation in the evening was the largest I have seen in Ulster; and I believe, for the present, all were convinced that nothing will avail, without humble, gentle, patient love. On Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, I preached at Hamilton’s Bahn, Clanmain, Legall, the Grange, and Cockhill. Thursday, 10. I rode to Derry-Anvil; (where are) some of the liveliest Christians I have seen in the kingdom. Eight of them I examined closely, who testified that they had never lost the witness, nor felt any decay, since the hour they were perfected in love.

On Friday and Saturday I preached at Portadown, Killmararty, Dawson’s Grove, and Tanderagee. Sunday, 13. I preached at nine with great enlargement of heart. At half-hour past eleven the Church Service began. The Curate read Prayers exceeding well, and the Rector preached with uncommon earnestness. But what I most admired was,

1. The cleanness of the church, equal to any I have seen in England.

2. The serious behavior of the whole congregation. And,

3. The excellent singing by forty or fifty voices, half men and half women. I have heard nothing like it in any church since I came into the kingdom.

The Rector inviting me to dinner, I spent an agreeable hour with him and his Curate. The congregation at six was exceeding numerous, and exceeding serious. We concluded the day with the societies, gathered from all parts: And great was our rejoicing. Many were filled with consolation, and many feeble hands were strengthened.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 494

After preaching at Lurgan, I inquired of Mr. Miller, whether he had any thoughts of perfecting his speaking statue, which had so long lain by. He said he had altered his design; that he intended, if he had life and health, to make two, which would not only speak, but sing hymns alternately with an articulate voice; that he had made a trial, and it answered well. But he could not tell when he should finish it, as he had much business of other kinds, and could only give his leisure hours to this. How amazing is it that no man of fortune enables him to give all his time to the work!

I preached in the evening at Lisburn. All the time I could spare here was taken up by poor patients. I generally asked, “What remedies have you used?” and was not a little surprised. What has fashion to do with physic? Why, (in Ireland, at least,) almost as much as with head-dress. Blisters, for anything or nothing, were all the fashion when I was in Ireland last. Now the grand fashionable medicine for twenty diseases two would imagine it? is mercury sublimate! Why is it not an halter, or a pistol? They would cure a little more speedily.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 495

I went to dreary Newtown. This place always makes me pensive. Even in Ireland I hardly see anywhere such heaps of ruins as here; and they are considerably increased since I was here before. What a shadow is human greatness!

The evening congregation in the new market-house appeared deeply attentive, especially the backsliders; several of whom determined to set out afresh.

When I came to Belfast, I learned the real cause of the late insurrections in this neighborhood. Lord Donegal, the proprietor of almost the whole country, came hither to give his tenants new leases. But when they came, they found two merchants of the town had taken their farms over their heads; so that multitudes of them, with their wives and children, were turned out to the wide world. It is no wonder that, as their lives were now bitter to them, they should fly out as they did. It is rather a wonder that they did not go much farther. And if they had, who would have been most in fault? Those who were without home, without money, without food for themselves and families? Or those who drove them to this extremity? In the evening I preached to a numerous congregation in the new market-house, but trifling enough. Yet by degrees they sunk into seriousness. The greater part of them came again in the morning; and their behavior was then remarkably decent.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 496

There was a lovely congregation at the Shire-Hall in Carrickfergus, very large and very serious. Nor was it much smaller at five in the morning. I added several to the society, and could not but hope that there was seed sown here that will never be rooted up.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 496

I went to Ballymena, and read a strange tract, that professes to discover “the inmost recesses of Freemasonry;” said to be “translated from the French original, lately published at Berlin.” I incline to think it is a genuine account. Only if it be, I wonder the author is suffered to live. If it be, what an amazing banter upon all mankind is Freemasonry! And what a secret is it which so many concur to keep! From what motive? Through fear, — or shame to own it?

In the evening the Minister offered me the use of the church. I feared it would not contain the people, who ran together so eagerly, that it was with difficulty I could get to the door. But after we had stowed them close together, almost all could get in. I dealt exceeding plainly with them, and they had ears to hear.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 496

I declared to a loving people at Ballinderry, “the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Many of them experienced this; and many felt their wants; several children in particular. In the evening I preached at Lisburn, and on the two following days. Monday, 21. I met a gentleman, who looked hard, and asked me if I did not know him. Indeed I did not, though I had been at his house some years ago, in Londonderry. Mr. Samson was then one of the Ministers there, — a lively, sensible man; very fat, and of a fresh, ruddy complexion. But he was now, after a long and severe melancholy, so thin, pale, and wan, that I did not recollect one feature of his face. I spent an hour with him very agreeably. He did not show the least touch of wildness, but calm, rational seriousness; so that I could not but believe, it is good for him that he has seen affliction.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 497

I preached at Drumbanahur and Newry. Thursday, 24. Some friends from Dublin met us at Drogheda. In the evening we walked to see the place where King William passed the Boyne. It was almost a desperate attempt, considering the depth of the river, and the steepness of the banks; but God was on his side. Near the place all handsome obelisk is erected, with an inscription, giving a brief account of that memorable action.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 497

I went on to Dublin. I left three hundred and seventy-eight members in the society, and found four hundred and twelve, many of whom were truly alive to God. Saturday, JULY 3. I sent to the Commanding Officer, to desire leave to preach in the barracks; but he replied, he would have no innovations. No: Whoredom, drunkenness, cursing and swearing, for ever!

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 497

About eleven we crossed Dublin bar, and were at Hoy-Lake the next afternoon. This was the first night I ever lay awake in my life, though I was at ease in body and mind. I believe few can say this: In seventy years I never lost one night’s sleep!

In my passage I read Dr. Leland’s “History of Ireland:” — A fine writer, but unreasonably partial. I can easily believe that the Irish were originally Tartars or Scythians, though calling at Spain in their way; but not that they were a jot less barbarous than their descendants in Scotland; or that ever they were a civilized nation, till they were civilized by the English; much less, that Ireland was, in the seventh or eighth century, the grand seat of learning; that it had many famous Colleges, in one of which only, Armagh, there were seven thousand students. All this, with St. Patrick’s converting thirty thousand at one sermon, I rank with the history of “Bel and the Dragon.”

I went by moderate stages, from Liverpool to Madeley; where I arrived on

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 497

The next morning we went to see the effects of the late earthquake: Such it undoubtedly was. On Monday, 27, at four in the morning, a rumbling noise was heard, accompanied with sudden gusts of wind, and wavings of the ground. Presently the earthquake followed, which only shook the farmer’s house, and removed it entire about a yard; but carried the barn about fifteen yards, and then swallowed it up in a vast chasm; tore the ground into numberless chasms, large and small; in the large, threw up mounts, fifteen or twenty feet high; carried an hedge, with two oaks, above forty feet, and left them in their natural position. It then moved under the bed of the river; which, making more resistance, received a ruder shock, being shattered in pieces, and heaved up about thirty feet from its foundations. By throwing this, and many oaks, into its channel, the Seven was quite stopped up, and constrained to flow backward till, with incredible fury, it wrought itself new channel. Such a scene of desolation I never saw. Will none tremble when God thus terribly shakes the earth?

In the evening I preached under a spreading oak, in Madeley-Wood; Sunday, 11, morning and afternoon, in the church. In the evening I preached to the largest congregation of all, near the market-house, at Broseley. I came back just by the famous well; but it burns no more. It ceased from the time a coal-pit was sunk near it, which drew off the sulfurous vapor.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 498

I preached at Wolverhampton and Birmingham. In my journey from Liverpool, I read Dr. Byrom’s Poems. He has all the wit and humor of Dr. Swift, together with much more learning, a deep and strong understanding, and, above all, a serious vein of piety. A few things in him I particularly remarked:

1. The first is concerning the patron of England; and I think there can be no reasonable doubt of the truth of his conjecture, that Georgius is a mistake for Gregorius; that the real patron of England is St. Gregory; (who sent Austin, the Monk, to convert England;) and that St. George (whom no one knows) came in by a mere blunder:

2. His criticisms on Homer and Horace seem to be well grounded. Very probably the cuneV, mentioned by Homer; were not dogs, but attendants; and without doubt ourhaV means, not mules, but the outguards of the camp.

It seems, that ode in Horace ought to be read, —

Sume, Mæcenas, cyathos amici

Sospitis. Cantum et vigiles lucernas

Perfer in lucem.

In the Art of Poetry he would read,

Unumque prematur in annum.

Lib. 1. Ode 9. For Campus et areæ,

Read Cantus et aleæ.

Lib. 3. Ode 29. For Tum me biremis praesidio scaphæ aura feret: Read Cum me — Aura ferat.

Lib. 3. Ode 23. Read Thure placaris, et horna.

Fruge Lares, avidasque Parcas. And

Lib. 1. Ode. 20. Read Vile potabo.

A few things in the second volume are taken from Jacob Behmen; to whom I object, not only that he is obscure; (although even this is an inexcusable fault in a writer on practical religion;) not only that his whole hypothesis is unproved, wholly unsupported either by Scripture or reason; but that the ingenious madman over and over contradicts Christian experience, reason, Scripture, and himself.

But, setting these things aside, we have some of the finest sentiments that ever appeared in the English tongue; some of the noblest truths, expressed with the utmost energy of language, and the strongest colors of poetry: So that, upon the whole, I trust this publication will much advance the cause of God, and of true religion.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 498

I preached at Wednesbury; Wednesday, 14, at Dudley and Birmingham. Thursday, 15. I went on to Witney, and had the satisfaction to find that the work of God was still increasing. In the evening I preached at the east end of the town, to a numerous and attentive congregation. In the morning I met the select society, full of faith and love; although the greater part of them are young, some little more than children. At six I preached at the west end of the town, near Mr. Bolton’s door. After preaching, I had a pleasant journey to Wheatley, and the next day to London.

In this journey I read over that strange book, “The Life of Sextus Quintus;” an hog-driver at first, then a Monk, a Priest, a Bishop, a Cardinal, a Pope. He was certainly as great a genius, in his way, as any that ever lived. He did great things, and designed far greater; but death prevented the execution. And he had many excellent qualities; but was full as far from being a Christian, as Henry VIII., or Oliver Cromwell.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 500

We had our Quarterly Meeting at London; at which I was surprised to find, that our income does not yet answer our expense. We were again near two hundred pounds bad. My private account I find still worse. I have labored as much as many writers; and all my labor has gained me, in seventy years, a debt of five or six hundred pounds. Sunday, 25, was a day of strong consolation, particularly at Spitalfields. At five I preached in Moorfields, to (it was supposed) the largest congregation that ever assembled there. But my voice was so strengthened, that those who were farthest off could hear perfectly well. So the season for field-preaching is not yet over. It cannot, while so many are in their sins and in their blood.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 500

Our Conference began. I preached mornings as well as evenings; and it was all one. I found myself just as strong as if I had preached but once a day.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 500

At night I set out in the machine, and on Monday reached Bristol. In the way I looked over Mr.——’s Dissertations. I was surprised to find him a thorough convert of Mr. Stonehouse’s, both as to the pre-existence of souls, and the non-eternity of hell. But he is far more merciful than Mr. Stonehouse. He allows it to last (not five millions, but) only thirty thousand years!

It would he excusable, if these menders of the Bible would offer their hypotheses modestly. But one cannot excuse them when they not only obtrude their novel scheme with the utmost confidence, but even ridicule that scriptural one which always was, and is now, held by men of the greatest learning and piety in the world. Hereby they promote the cause of infidelity more effectually than either Hume or Voltaire.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 501

I set out for Cornwall; and the next day we came to Collumpton. For five or six days, I think, the weather has been as hot as it is in Georgia. After preaching, I went on to Exeter with Ralph Mather, then an humble, scriptural Christian. Saturday, 14. I went on to Plymouth-Dock, and in the evening preached in the Square. Sunday, 15. As I could not sleep (an uncommon thing, with me) till near two in the morning, my companion was afraid I should not be able to go through the labor of the day; but I knew I did not go a warfare at my own cost. At seven I preached in Mr. Kinsman’s preaching house, on, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate;” and I think many received the truth in the love thereof. Between one and two I preached in the Tabernacle at Plymouth; and in the evening declared in the Square, to a multitude of people, the nature of that love, without which all we say, know, believe, do, and suffer, profits nothing.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 501

In the evening I preached at St. Austle; Tuesday, 17, in the Coinage-Hall at Truro; at six, in the main street at Helstone. How changed is this town, since a Methodist Preacher could not ride through it without hazard of his life!

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 501

I preached in the Town-Hall in Penzance. It was soon filled from end to end; and it was filled with the power of God. One would have thought every soul must have bowed down before Him. In the evening I preached at St. Just; Friday, 20, in Penzance and Marazion; and in the evening in the market place at St. Ives, to the largest congregation I have yet seen in Cornwall.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 501

I preached in Illogan and at Redruth; Sunday, 22, in St. Agnes Church-town, at eight; about one at Redruth; and at five, in the amphitheater at Gwennap. The people both filled it, and covered the ground round about, to a considerable distance. So that, supposing the space to be four-score yards square, and to contain five persons in a square yard, there must be above two-and-thirty thousand people; the largest assembly I ever preached to. Yet I found, upon inquiry, all could hear, even to the skirts of the congregation! Perhaps the first time that a man of seventy had been heard by thirty thousand persons at once! Hence I went by Cubert, Port-Isaac, Camelford, and Launceston, to Tiverton. Saturday, 28. I returned to Bristol.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 502

I went over to Kingswood, and inquired into the ground of many heavy charges, which had been confidently advanced against the management there. One article was true, and no more. And this fault is now amended.

I waited a few days before I set down what has lately occurred among the children here. From the time God visited them last, several of them retained a measure of the fear of God. But they grew colder and colder, till Ralph Mather met them in the latter end of August. Several then resolved to meet in class again, and appeared to have good desires. On Saturday, September 4, he talked with three of them, about four in the afternoon. These freely confessed their besetting sins, and appeared to be greatly humbled. At five all the children met in the school. During an exhortation then given, first one, then two or three were much affected. Afterwards two more were taken apart, who were soon deeply distressed; and one of them, (James Whitestone,) in less than half an hour, found a clear sense of the love of God. Near seven, they came down (to) the boys in the school; and Mr. Mather asked, “Which of you will serve God?” They all seemed to be thunderstruck, and ten or twelve fell down upon their knees. Mr. Mather prayed, and then James Whitestone. Immediately one and another cried out; which brought in the other boys, who seemed struck more and more, till about thirty were kneeling and praying at once. Before half-hour past nine, ten of them knew that they were accepted in the Beloved. Several more were brought to the birth; and all the children, but three or four, were affected more or less.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 502

I examined sixteen of them who desired to partake of the Lord’s Supper. Nine or ten had a clear sense of the pardoning love of God. The others were fully determined never to rest till they could witness the same confession.

Eighteen of the children from that time met in three Bands, besides twelve who met in trial Band. These were remarkable for their love to each other, as well as for steady seriousness. They met every day; beside which, all the children met in class.

Those who found peace were James Whitestone, Alexander Mather, Matthew Lowes, William Snowdon, John Keil, Charles Farr, John Hamilton, Benjamin Harris, and Edward Keil.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 503

After Mr. Mather had preached at Pensford, he met the children there. Presently the spirit of contrition fell upon them, and then the Spirit of grace and of supplication, till the greater part of them were crying together for mercy, with a loud and bitter cry: And all Miss Owen’s children, but one, (two-and-twenty in number,) were exceedingly comforted.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 503

I went over to Kingswood, and inquired into the present state of the children. I found part of them had walked closely with God; part had not, and were in heaviness. Hearing in the evening that they were got to prayer by themselves in the school, I went down; but, not being willing to disturb them, stood at the window. Two or three had gone in first; then more and more, till above thirty were gathered together. Such a sight I never saw before nor since. Three or four stood and stared, as if affrighted. The rest were all on their knees, pouring out their souls before God, in a manner not easy to be described. Sometimes one, sometimes more, prayed aloud; sometimes a cry went up from them all; till five or six of them, who were in doubts before, saw the clear light of God’s countenance.

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 503

Four of Miss Owen’s children desired leave to partake of the Lord’s Supper. I talked with them severally, and found they were all still rejoicing in the love of God. And they confirmed the account, that there was only one of their whole number who was unaffected on Monday: But all the rest could then say with confidence, “Lord, thou knowest that I love thee.” I suppose such a visitation of children has not been known in England these hundred years. In so marvelous a manner, “out of the mouth of babes and sucklings” God has “perfected praise!”

WES_WW03.PDF, p. 503

My cold remaining, I was ill able to speak. In the evening I was much worse, my palate and throat being greatly inflamed. However, I preached as I could; but I could then go no farther. I could swallow neither liquids nor solids, and the windpipe seemed nearly closed. I lay down at my usual time, but the deflection of rheum was so uninterrupted, that I slept not a minute till near three in the morning. On the following nine days I grew better. Friday, 17. I went to Kingswood, and found several of the children still alive to God.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 5

I gave them a short exhortation, which tired but did not hurt me.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 5

I thought myself able to speak to the congregation, which I did for half an hour; but afterwards I found a pain in my left side and in my shoulder by turns, exactly as I did at Canterbury twenty years before. In the morning I could scarce lift my hand to my head; but, after being electrified, I was much better; so that I preached with tolerable ease in the evening; and the next evening read the letters, though my voice was weak. From this time I slowly recovered my voice and my strength, and on Sunday preached without any trouble.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 5

After preaching at Pensford, I went to Publow, and in the morning spent a little time with the lovely children Those of them who were lately affected, did not appear to have lost anything of what they had received; and some of them were clearly gaining ground, and advancing in the faith which works by love. Sunday, OCTOBER 3. I took a solemn leave of the society at Bristol, now consisting of eight hundred members.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 5

I went, by Shepton-Mallet, to Shaftesbury, and on Tuesday to Salisbury. Wednesday, 6. Taking chaise at two in the morning, in the evening I came well to London. The rest of the week I made what inquiry I could into the state of my accounts. Some confusion had arisen from the sudden death of my book-keeper; but it was less than might have been expected.

Monday, 11, and the following days, I took a little tour through Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire. Between Northampton and Towcester we met with a great natural curiosity, the largest elm I ever saw; it was twenty-eight feet in circumference; six feet more than that which was some years ago in Magdalen-College walks at Oxford.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 6

I began my little journey through Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. In the way I read over Sir Richard Blackmore’s “Prince Arthur.” It is not a contemptible poem, although by no means equal to his Poem on the Creation, in which are many admirably fine strokes.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 6

I went to Shoreham, and spent two days both agreeably and profitably. The work of God, which broke out here two or three years ago, is still continually increasing. I preached near Bromley on Thursday, and on Friday, 29, had the satisfaction of dining with an old friend. I hope she meant all the kindness she professed. If she did not, it was her own loss.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 6

I set out for Norfolk, and came to Lynn while the congregation was waiting for me. Here was once a prospect of doing much good; but it was almost vanished away. Calvinism, breaking in upon them, had torn the infant society in pieces. I did all I could to heal the breach, both in public and private; and, having recovered a few, I left them all in peace, and went on to Norwich on Wednesday.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 6

I preached at noon to the warm congregation at London, and in the evening to the cold one at Yarmouth. I know there is nothing too hard for God; else I should go thither no more. Monday, 8. I found the society at Lakenheath was entirely vanished away. I joined them together once more, and they seriously promised to keep together. If they do, I shall endeavor to see them again; if not, I have better work.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 6

I preached at Bury; and on Wednesday, at Colchester, where I spent a day or two with much satisfaction, among a poor, loving, simple-hearted people. I returned to London on Friday, and was fully employed in visiting the classes from that time to Saturday, 20. In my late journey I read over Dr. Lee’s “Sophron.” He is both a learned and a sensible man; yet I judge his book will hardly come to a second impression, for these very obvious reasons: —

1. His language is generally rough and unpleasing; frequently so obscure that one cannot pick out the meaning of a sentence, without reading it twice or thrice over:

2. His periods are intolerably long, beyond all sense and reason; one period often containing ten or twenty, and sometimes thirty, lines:

3. When he makes a pertinent remark he knows not when to have done with it, but spins it out without any pity to the reader:

4. Many of his remarks, like those of his master, Mr. Hutchinson, are utterly strained and unnatural; such as give pain to those who believe the Bible, and diversion to these who do not.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 6

I set out for Sussex, and found abundance of people willing to hear the good word; at Rye in particular. And they do many things gladly: But they will not part with the accursed thing, smuggling. So I fear, with regard to these, our labor will be in vain.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 7

I went to Gravesend; on Tuesday, to Chatham; and on Wednesday, to Sheerness; over that whimsical ferry, where footmen and horses pay nothing, but every carriage four shillings! I was pleasing myself that I had seen one fair day at Sheerness! But that pleasure was soon over. We had rain enough in the evening. However, the House was crowded sufficiently. I spoke exceeding plain to the bigots on both sides. May God write it on their hearts!

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 7

I went to Canterbury in the stage-coach, and by the way read Lord Herbert’s Life, written by himself; the author of the first system of Deism that ever was published in England. Was there ever so wild a knight-errant as this? Compared to him, Don Quixote was a sober man. Who can wonder, that a man of such a complexion should be an Infidel? I returned to London, Friday, 10, with Captain Hinderson, of Chatham, who informed us, — “Being off the Kentish coast, on Wednesday morning last, I found my ship had been so damaged by the storm, which still continued, that she could not long keep above water; so we got into the boat, twelve in all, though with little hope of making the shore. A ship passing by, we made all the signals we could; but they took no notice. A second passed near: We made signals and called; but they would not stay for us. A third put out their boat, took us up, and set us safe on shore.”

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 7

Meeting with a celebrated book, a volume of Captain Cook’s Voyages, I sat down to read it with huge expectation. But how was I disappointed! I observed,

1. Things absolutely incredible: “A nation without any curiosity;” and, what is stranger still, (I fear related with no good design,) “without any sense of shame! Men and women coupling together in the face of the sun, and in the sight of scores of people! Men whose skin, cheeks, and lips are white as milk.” Hume or Voltaire might believe this; but I cannot.

I observed,

2. Things absolutely impossible. To instance in one, for a specimen. A native of Otaheite is said to understand the language of an island eleven hundred degrees [query, miles] distant from it in latitude; besides I know not how many hundreds in longitude!

So that I cannot but rank this narrative with that of Robinson Crusoe; and account Tupia to be, in several respects, akin to his man Friday. Saturday, 25, and on the following days, we had many happy opportunities of celebrating the solemn Feast-days, according to the design of their institution. We concluded the year with a Fast-day, closed with a solemn watch-night.

WES_WW04.PDF, p. 8